ALBERTA
ORDER BY DECEMBER 12, 2011
S P ECIAL OFFERING 5 0 Austria, Bordeaux, Chablis, Beaujolais, Southern Hemisphere wines of Paul Sapin, South Africa, Champagne, Sherry, MaltScotch Whisky and Cognac
OPIMIAN MAKES ORDERING EASY WHAT TO ORDER? Would you prefer a wine you can drink now or lay down? Which styles of wine do you most enjoy – light, medium or fullbodied – oak or no oak? Familiarize yourself with the icons Opimian provides below and consult the wine descriptions to guide you in your wine selection. Interested in what other members enjoy? The Members’ Choice indicates member favourites – they know this wine, the supplier and they regularly order it. HOW TO ORDER Once you have made your selection, you can place your order in one of four ways: • Order online. Sign in to opim.ca. Show Details on the left menu brings you to the cellar offering. Click the shopping basket to add a case to your order. Submit Order when you have completed your selection and provide your payment information. A confirmation will be sent to you via email. • Email at opim@opim.ca with your selection. • Call in your order at 1-800-361-9421. • Mail or Fax in your order - Complete the order form provided with all the information requested. Mail in the envelope provided or fax to 514-481-9699. CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE FOR SPECIAL OFFERING 50 • Methods of Payment: Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque made out to Opimian. • Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including G.S.T & H.S.T #R 105 233 217 • Q.S.T #1000640430 • A valid 2012 membership card is required to order and pick up. • Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum or maximum required. • The last day to order from this Special Offering is December 12, 2011. REDEEM YOUR COUPON Redeem your coupon by choosing one of the following two rewards from this Special Offering: 1. Order a case of wine & choose your free case from the coupon wine selection shown on the back cover. OR 2. Order two cases of wine & receive $75 off your order If redeeming online, insert your coupon number (found on the front of the coupon) when prompted. See coupon for full details. Restrictions: A 2nd case of wine must be ordered for every coupon redeemed. Coupons are non-transferable, may not be exchanged for cash and cannot be combined with the Opimian Select or Founders’ Choice programs.
About the cover: The tiny medieval village of Ternand has preserved its charm, with its steep narrow streets, its towering homes with pretty windows, and its passages that lead to the public garden in the ruins of the old castle or the 15th century church that contains columns dating back to the 12th century. Its unique setting is enhanced by the geography of the village, a little isolated, timeless and surrounded by vineyards where the Domaine de Milhomme has existed since the 16th century.
WINE DELIVERY It takes time! The wines on this Special Offering are not yet in Canada. When the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution center, you will receive a Pick Up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and location for pick up. You can follow the status of your shipment at opim.ca. The expected arrival at a Canadian Port is End of April, 2012. Arrival dates at liquor boards depend on their distances from port of entry. Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, and processing time required by each liquor board. LET US HELP YOU! If you have any questions about what or how to order, contact us at 1-800-361-9421 or opim@opim.ca
LEGEND Members’ Choice
White
Drink this year
Red
Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years
Rosé
Wine meant for laying down
This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.
Opimian Suggests
To help novice members, this symbol is a guide to wines that are suitable for starting a cellar, and/or for drinking within two years of delivery.
Sparkling Great concentration
Medium concentration
Light in body
Heavy oak
Medium oak
Light oak
Less than 100 cases available
Extremely limited quantities
Very limited quantities
Limited quantities
Degrees of Maturity (M) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = lay down 10 = fully mature Degrees of Drinkability (D) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = needs time 10 = ready to drink
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Sweetness scale 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10
gms/litre 0-3 4-6 7 - 12 13 - 20 21 - 34 35 - 50 51 - 74 75 - 100 101 - 139 140 - 179 180 >
Medal Winner Appeared in the S48 Opimian Select Cases (2011 Season)
Examples Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, many reds Some New World varietals, some reds Champagne, Sparklers, Rosés, few reds Mosel, some Alsace, Anjou Semi-sweet Bordeaux, some sherry Kabinett German, Late Harvest, Alsace, dry White Port Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese
SPECIAL OFFERING 50 Austria, Bordeaux, Chablis, Beaujolais, Southern Hemisphere wines of Paul Sapin, South Africa, Champagne, Sherry, Malt Scotch Whisky and Cognac
Opimian’s Wine Consultant Jane Masters MW is a graduate of Bordeaux’s famous Institut d’Oenologie and was elected to the Institute of Masters of Wine in 1997. Fluent in French and English, Jane is currently a member of the Council of the Institute of Masters of Wine, regularly speaks at industry seminars and is a Panel Chair for the International Wine Challenge.
Classic and unique are adjectives that come to mind when we think of Austria’s noble white wines, Château de Sours’ world-class rosés and the legendary appeal of Chablis. For the red wine lover, Beaujolais for all occasions, Pinot Noir for the enthusiast and a diverse selection of Southern Hemisphere favourites including those from South Africa, the newest addition to our annual Special Offering. And, who can resist our collection of specialty items – Champagne, Sherry, Malt Scotch Whisky and Cognac? For anyone who is a lover of wine, of food and in particular of the two together, this offering contains an array of tastes and styles to titivate the palate. From fizz to still, fortified to spirit, old world to new world, we present a range of selections to suit all occasions – now or in the future. 1. Cognac tasting 2. Frédéric Montageron, Domaine de Montangeron, Fleurie 3. Pràban na Linne offices
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4. Caballero sherry casks 5. Harvest at the Cloof Wine Estate 6. Evening at Stellekaya Winery 2
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7. Gardet oenologist Stéphanie Sucheyre 8. Vineyards in the Wellington region, Western Cape 9. Höpler vineyards
10. Lamblin Fils historical wood case 11. Kyburg vineyards 12. Petit Verdot grown outside the gates of Château de Sours ALBERTA
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Austria Höpler Winery Breitenbrunn, Burgenland It is always tricky to write about wines that have not yet been finished, but harvest so far is looking good in Burgenland, Austria. Christophe is pleased that, after an early start, two weeks earlier than a normal year, fully ripe grapes were picked under ideal Indian summer conditions. The whites are fruit-driven and aromatic with good acidity.
In addition to his studies in business administration in Vienna, owner and winemaker Christof Höpler trained in Western Australia, California and Austria
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
AUSTRIA Höpler Winery >>
6334
Grüner Veltliner, 2011, Qualitätswein, Burgenland $17.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$105.00
The 2010 was awarded a silver medal at the International Wine Challenge in September following a number of awards in previous years. This is a testament to Höpler’s skill with this varietal. The Austrian national grape variety is marked by its primary rock characteristic, a light green tinge, yellow apple scents, and spicy hay flavours supported by minerals. This gentle style, with its herbal nettle flavours and touch of sweetness, is easy to match to a range of dishes. [00] M8 D8
6335
Grape Variety Grüner Veltliner Aroma
Green apples, nettle
Taste
Elegant soft palate
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Intended for drinking young, it will reveal more over two years
Ideal with
Asparagus gratin
Pinot Blanc, 2011, Qualitätswein, Burgenland $18.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$113.00
Christophe’s wines are elegant if understated, making them great for matching and enhancing lightly flavoured dishes; it is no wonder that they are present on many of the world’s finest gastronomic tables. Pinot Blanc, also known as Weissburgunder, is no exception. Versatile with aromas of delicate citrus fruits and almond flavours, it can accompany foods as diverse as pork tenderloin, chicken, Asian recipes and goes well with herbs such as basil, chervil, coriander, mint or fresh fennel. [02] M8 D8
6336 Riesling, 2011, Qualitätswein, Burgenland $20.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$122.00
Riesling shows off with its compelling primary rock personality. All being well, 2011 promises to be a great vintage and one for keeping. The wines are bright straw in colour with a green hue, loads of peach aromas following through to a fullbodied palate with elegant traces of sweetness. This wine is a particularly good accompaniment to seafood, such as fillet of trout or Gravlax, shellfish and crustaceans, such as lobster, crayfish, scampi, or with Parma ham. [01] M7 D8
6337
Austria’s main grape variety is expanding into the US, New Zealand and Australia
Höpler “Erwein” St. Laurent, 2008 $20.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$123.00
For many generations Erwein has been the name of the son and heir of the Höpler family, and in this case is Christophe’s middle name. The St. Laurent variety is found in Austria and parts of Alsace with a small quantity grown in New Zealand. 2008 was a year with difficult weather conditions including hail and heavy rains. Fortunately, St. Laurent ripens early, so it avoided the poor conditions and has produced a deeply coloured wine, full of spicy chocolate aromas with juicy redcurrants, cherries and soft tannins on the palate. M6 D7
AUSTRIA Höpler Winery
Food-friendly Grape Variety Pinot Blanc Aroma
Delicate, lemon citrus
Taste
Citrus, almond
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Enjoy it in its youth to appreciate its fresh flavours
Ideal with
Spit-roasted suckling pig, Japanese cuisine
The “king” of white wines Grape Variety Riesling Aroma
Peaches
Taste
Full-bodied with a touch of sweetness
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Delicious now, it will delight over three years
Ideal with
Braised rabbit with mustard and summer savory
A grape variety linked to the Pinot Noir family Grape Variety St. Laurent Aroma
Spicy, chocolate
Taste
Redcurrants, cherries, juicy mid-palate, ripe tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It has staying power, drink over three to five years
Ideal with
Venison medallions with redcurrants
ALBERTA
5
Château de Sours Saint Quentin
Bordeaux
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Bordeaux has benefited from a series of good vintages, but holidays were clearly cut short this year, as the earliest harvest ever experienced by Martin Krajewski since his time at Château de Sours took place. Picking for the whites and rosés started in mid-August, eighteen days earlier than the previous record. In fact, harvesting of the reds had finished before picking had even started in most years!
BORDEAUX Château de Sours >>
Hand sorting of the Merlot grapes as they are received at the winery
de Sours, Sparkling Rosé, Méthode 6338 Réserve Traditionnelle, Brut, NV $20.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$121.00
Produced from a blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, the Réserve sparkling wine has leafy herbal characteristics from these two varietals, combined with strawberries and crushed raspberries. It is a lovely bright salmon colour with a fine persistent mousse, making it a refreshing aperitif. Produced using the traditional Champagne method, the grapes were picked early September and the second fermentation carried out in bottle. After the second fermentation, the wine was left in contact with its lees for eighteen months to not only add extra weight on the palate, but to add to the finesse of the mousse prior to disgorgement. [02] M8 D8
6339 Château de Sours, AOC Bordeaux Rosé, 2011 $16.17
12 BTLS/750 ML
$194.00
2011 was the earliest harvest on record at Château de Sours and a stressful year for Martin. Hail hit part of the vineyards and a strong risk of rot developing meant fruit had to be carefully selected and rapidly picked. Martin has built up a great team around him, able to react to whatever nature throws at them. Only the best free run juice was used. The 2011 will be lighter in colour and slightly lighter in alcohol than in previous years, but rich in berry fruits with grapefruit and passion fruit on the palate. [00] M8 D9
Source du Château de Sours, AOC Bordeaux 6340 La Rosé, 2010 $23.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$141.00
In such a ripe vintage it would have been easy to overdo it, yet Martin and his team has managed once again to produce a wine filled with fruit and vinosity while at the same time being elegant and refined. Cranberry fruits are muddled with vanilla and herbal notes on the nose and this same cocktail of flavours asserts itself on the palate, with medium weight and nice acidity giving structure. It has a long vanilla and cranberry finish. The grapes coming from the limestone plateau surrounding the Château were hand-picked. After very gentle pressing and settling of the juice, 50% was fermented in new French oak barrels. The wine was left on fine lees for nine months with regular batonnage. [00] M7 D8
BORDEAUX Château de Sours
The Réserve de Sours Sparkling Rosé ages on the lees for 16 months in the caves of Château de Sours
From the sensational 2009 vintage Grape Variety Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Aroma
Leafy, herbal, red fruits
Taste
Off-dry, medium weight, mouth-watering acidity
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Perfectly ready
Ideal with
Caviar, sautéed scallops
A luscious and vibrant pale pink Grape Variety Merlot, Cabernet Franc Aroma
Red berry fruits
Taste
Strawberries, passion fruit, refreshing acidity
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Drink over two years
Ideal with
Garlic grilled chicken
Elegance and finesse in a bottle Grape Variety Merlot, Cabernet Franc Aroma
Vanilla, cranberry, herbal tomato leaf
Taste
Structured, long vanilla and cranberry flavours
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Significantly more complex than most rosés, it will develop in bottle over two years
Ideal with
Crab cakes with spicy aioli and fresh chives, gorgonzola
ALBERTA
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Chablis & the Côte d’Or Michel and Didier Lamblin are the 11th generation of vignerons to make Chablis in Maligny and can trace their family history back to 1690. In the late 19th century, the négociant business and trade developed, so that by the 1950s it had flourished and was exporting wines internationally. Michel and Didier are in turn assisted by their sons Alexandre and Clément. When I met Michel and Didier at Vinexpo, we tasted through many of the 2010 wines which had just been bottled and they were very pleased with the results. The 2010 harvest started well on September 25th with a relatively small crop, but then it started to rain…. The wines have turned out well and better than one might have expected with good structure, balance and acidity and lots of potential ahead.
Lamblin Fils Maligny-par-Chablis 6341
Folies Parisiennes, Le Blanc des Heritiers Lamblin, Vin de Pays $9.17
12 BTLS/750 ML
$110.00
Specially made for Opimian members as a good value everyday drinking wine, the Folies Parisiennes Blanc is produced in the Languedoc from the rather neutral Ugni Blanc blended with Colombard and Chasan to add fruit. It displays nice white stone fruits with refreshingly vibrant acidity. With a touch of Crème de Cassis, it makes a great Kir. [00] M8 D9
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
When there is a threat of frost during the budding period, the vines are sprinkled with water. The ice maintains the temperature at about 0˚C, therefore offering protection. Apart from the threat of frost, the use of sprinkler systems is prohibited.
Easy everyday white Grape Variety Ugni Blanc, Colombard, Chasan Aroma
White stone fruits, almonds
Taste
Broad palate, zingy acidity
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Made to offer instant enjoyment
Ideal with
Thai green papaya salad with poached shrimp
Chablis & the Côte d’Or LAMBLIN FILS >>
6342
Folies Parisiennes, Le Rouge des Heritiers Lamblin, Vin de Pays $9.00
12 BTLS/750 ML
$108.00
A partner to the white, the red is perfect as an everyday drinking wine. Sourced from the Languedoc in the South, the blend is based on Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault. Intense bright ruby in colour, it has an earthy herbal aroma developing more fruit on the palate and as it opens up in the glass. Quite simple with firm tannin, it is a good partner to pasta dishes or pizza! M8 D9
6343
A charming red offering southern ripeness Grape Variety Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault Aroma
Earthy, spicy
Taste
Simple fruits, firm tannins
Serve
17° C
Evolution
Ready to be fully enjoyed
Ideal with
Spaghetti Bolognese, grilled sausage
Petit Chablis AOC, 2010 $17.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
Typical Chablis flavours of green apples and lime fruit shine through this wine, the result of natural yeast fermentation in stainless steel tanks. On the palate it is light with fresh apples and a soft finish, making it a perfect aperitif. The grapes were sourced from selected plots close to Maligny, falling in the Petit Chablis appellation at between 230 and 280M in altitude on brown, hard limestone soils. The Lamblins limit the use of herbicides and vines are pruned using the Double Guyot system leaving around twenty buds. [00] M8 D8
6344 Chablis AOC, Fleur d’Acacia, 2010 $19.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$117.00
Michel and Didier remember as children being sent out to pick wild Acacia flowers for their mother’s home baked Beignets de Fleurs d’Acacia. The memory of these prolific shrubs lining the Chablis vineyards and their potent smells has remained with them in adulthood and was the inspiration for the development of this cuvée. The wine has intense, fresh citrus flavours ranging from grapefruits and lime to a touch of mandarin and a purity and minerality of flavour that is rarely found outside Chablis. [00] M7 D8
6345 Chablis AOC, Vieilles Vignes, 2010 $19.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$117.00
Produced from a parcel of 2ha of 40 year old vines in the commune of La Chapelle-Vaupelteigne a few kilometres south of Maligny, all grapes were hand-picked, gently pressed, fermented at low temperature and subsequently kept on fine lees. Bottled in May 2011, it was tasted just a month later and was suffering a little “bottle shock” so that the nose was a little muted. However with a bit more structure than the 2009 and great balance, this wine has good potential to age for a number of years and will really start expressing itself after a year or two in bottle. [00] M6 D6
Chablis & the Côte d’Or LAMBLIN FILS >>
Petit but certainly not “little” Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Fresh green apples, citrus
Taste
Lively palate, nice fresh fruits
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Optimum drinking over two years
Ideal with
Moules marinières
Childhood memories inspire Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Citrus lemon, grapefruit, white acacia
Taste
Fresh grapefruit, mineral notes, limey finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Enjoy over two years
Ideal with
Prawns with garlic butter, Beaufort
Produced from 40 year old vines Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Floral notes, blossom, citrus
Taste
Good structure, balance, persistent finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It will open up and offer more coming from the terroir’s influence over three years
Ideal with
Baked crab, salmon in pastry, Epoisses
ALBERTA
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6346 Chablis AOC, Barrel Fermented, 2009 $22.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$135.00
With the latest generation of Lamblins, Clément and Alexandre, new ideas and challenges have emerged. One of these was the introduction, or re-introduction, of the use of oak. And what a great idea as this wine has gone on to win awards and deservedly so. Coming from a small parcel of 0.6ha in Maligny, the wine was fermented in two to three year old barrels and subsequently left on its lees with batonnage two to three times per week. The result is a complex wine, not dominated by the oak, but with generous aromas of nutmeg, fennel and other spices. On the palate it has a wonderful creamy texture balanced with a lemon citrus finish. [00] M6 D6
Premier Cru, Mont de Milieu, Premier 6347 Chablis Cru Contrôlée, 2008 $23.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$139.00
A wine with pronounced depth and potential, the 2008 was a great vintage in Chablis, and of the 2008 Premier Cru Chablis I tasted with Michel and Didier, this was the one that stood out. Still a little bit closed on the nose, it has citrus, green apples and hay aromas, but will open up over the next two years becoming more expressive and aromatic. On the palate it has a fantastic minerality and a taut expression with structure and balance; this wine could not be mistaken for anything other than Chablis. It is one to hold on to for the future! [00] M5 D6
6348
Saint-Bris Sauvignon, AOC, 2010 $14.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$88.00
Sauvignon Blanc planted on these Jurassic limestone soils close to Auxerre produces particular aromatics, obviously typical of the grape, but with quite a different expression. A really interesting if quirky wine, it is intensely aromatic with herbal notes of cassis leaf, nettles, some fennel seed and ginger. The vivacious tangy acidity of the Sauvignon Blanc grape carries cassis flavours and a long mineral, limey citrus finish; it is a great match for fresh oysters or Scandinavian style fish dishes. [00] M8 D9
Alexandre, Michel, Clément and Didier in the Chablis 1er Cru “Vaillons” vineyards
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
The new generation marks its arrival Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Nutmeg, fennel
Taste
Creamy texture, subtle vanilla, mellow fruit, lemon citrus finish
Serve
10° C
Evolution
More to come over four years
Ideal with
Grilled veal chops with mushrooms
A great Chablis vintage Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Green apples, citrus, quince
Taste
Great depth, typical Chablis minerality
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It will continue to evolve over six years
Ideal with
Jambon à la Chablisienne
Herbal aromatics with a mineral finish Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Cassis leaf, nettle, fennel
Taste
Cassis flavours, long limey finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Lively and ready
Ideal with
Deep-fried eggplant, quiche Lorraine
Chardonnay grapes being harvested in the Chablis Grand Cru “Les Clos” vineyards
Chablis & the Côte d’Or LAMBLIN FILS >>
6349
Bourgogne Chardonnay AOC, 2010, Fleurs de Printemps $16.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$98.00
Despite being AOC Bourgogne, its steely charm with green apples and lime give away its northerly provenance close to Chablis. It is made from grapes grown around the town of Auxerre on Jurassic limestone with Kimmeridgian and Portlandian clays. It is produced in much the same way as the Chablis wines, but is a lighter, softer alternative. It makes for a good aperitif for easy drinking. [00] M8 D9
6350
Bourgogne Pinot Noir AOC, 2010, Saveurs d’Hiver $16.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$101.00
As long-established négociants and wine producers in the region, Lamblin Fils has long standing relationships with producers throughout Burgundy giving them access to the best wines directly from estates during and post-harvest. After selection these wines are matured and bottled in the Lamblin cellars. This simple Bourgogne Rouge expresses the typical varietal aromas of wild strawberries and red berries of Pinot Noir. On the palate it is soft, light-bodied and perfectly ready to be enjoyed. M7 D7
6351 Côte de Beaune-Villages AOC, 2010 $20.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$125.00
A blend of wines from several different producers and communes in the Côte de Beaune this wine has matured in oak in the Lamblin cellars. Red fruits are combined with balsamic notes on the nose. With medium body, it has a succulent mid-palate and a soft seductive texture. A more restrained style rather than a blockbuster wine, it is nicely balanced and ready for drinking over the next few years. Quite a challenging year for Burgundy reds, the region was hit with severe low temperatures in the winter, variable weather at flowering and hail and rain during harvest. M7 D7
6352
Gevrey-Chambertin AOC, 2010 $34.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$208.00
Lying at the northern end of the Côte d’Or, the village of Gevrey-Chambertin, which lends its name to the appellation, is surrounded by more famous vineyards than any other village in Burgundy. This part of the Côte has the widest area of suitable vineyard land stretching from the hill itself eastwards across the main road. Grapes cultivated on these lower chalky soils have produced a wine which was quite subdued at the time of tasting, but with good structure and balance requiring a modicum of patience over the next couple of years as the wine opens up. M5 D6
Chablis & the Côte d’Or LAMBLIN FILS
Classic Burgundy in a Chablis style Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Green apples, limes
Taste
Medium weight, firm acidity
Serve
8° C
Evolution
At its best over two years
Ideal with
Bouillabaisse, Parmigiano Reggiano
Overflowing summer berries Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Red berries, vegetal, typical Pinot nose
Taste
Soft, light palate, red berry fruits
Serve
16° C
Evolution
Ready now, drink over two years
Ideal with
Farmhouse poultry with tarragon, Gouda
Restrained and refined Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Small red and black fruits, balsamic
Taste
Soft with a juicy mid-palate, nice balance, good acidity
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Best enjoyed within three years
Ideal with
Veal scaloppini with tomatoes and mushrooms, Brie
A fine example of the intensity that Pinot Noir can achieve Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Closed at the moment, needs time to open up
Taste
Structured, great balance, robust tannin
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Patience is required, open 2015, ageing potential ten to twenty years
Ideal with
Boeuf bourguignon, goose with chestnuts
ALBERTA
11
Beaujolais
Bernard Perrin Négociant en vins, Ternand
It was a sweltering 39˚C when I visited Beaujolais on August 22nd and 23rd. The official “ban des vendanges” or picking date had been set, and as Bernard and I visited all of the estates included here, we saw harvesters out in the fields, tasted lots of grapes and got the low down on the expectations for the vintage. As in many areas of France, the vines in Beaujolais were off to an early start due to a mild spring in 2011 and this continued throughout the growing season. The region remained dry during the summer and was fortunate not to experience any of the storms that hit Burgundy to the north, or the Rhône and Provence to the south. As the harvest was starting, all indicators suggested a vintage similar to 2005 or 2009 in terms of structure and ripeness of tannins. We have selected many of the estates that have become regulars with Opimian as well as two new cuvées from Domaine de Milhomme. We also welcome Domaine Montangeron in Fleurie into the Opimian family. The hillsides of the Cru Chiroubles where Domaine Armand Desmures is located and where the grapes are exclusively hand-harvested
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>
de Bourgogne, AOC Crémant de 6353 Crémant Bourgogne, 2009, Bernard Perrin $18.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$113.00
Having arrived at Bernard and Blandine’s house we set to work on a fairly extensive tasting, after which, we had refreshments in the form of a glass of fizz on the terrace. Suddenly a lone trumpeter from a house across the way sounded out and reverberated around the valley. Bernard went to fetch his own trumpet and a sort of musical dialogue began. With its pleasant fresh fruit nose and fine mousse, this is a delightful aperitif and an alternative to Champagne, essentially made using the same method. Vineyard plots facing west or north east allow for the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining a good level of acidity which is so important in fine sparkling wine production. After the second fermentation in bottle, the wine was aged twelve months “sur lattes” to develop extra richness. [02] M8 D9
6354
Milhomme Vin de Pays des Gaules Gamay, 2011, Bernard Perrin $13.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$80.00
A mini Beaujolais in nature, the “Vin de Pays des Gaules” refers to Roman times when this land was named Gaule and the capital was the nearby city of Lyon, known as Lugdunum. In those days Gaule was the principal market for Roman wine, often drunk out of vessels made of yew and imported in vast quantities via the seacoast in Provence. Made from 100% Gamay and produced using a short maceration, this wine is soft and fruity. M8 D9
de Milhomme, Cuvée Le Mûrier, AOC 6355 Domaine Beaujolais, 2011 $14.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$86.00
Despite being a mere “Beaujolais” in terms of AOC classification, the soils at Bernard’s Domaine de Milhomme are of the same granite and schist nature as the Crus and have the potential to produce richer concentrated wines. The Cuvée Le Mûrier was first produced in 2009, harvested from eighty year old vines with only tiny quantities made. Having tasted the 2010, I immediately knew it was something special. After only a little bit of arm twisting Bernard was happy to offer the forthcoming 2011 vintage to Opimian members. Rich and concentrated, the age of the vines shows through with ripe dark fruits on the nose, and a full body. M7 D7
de Milhomme, Vigne Centenaire, AOC 6356 Domaine Beaujolais, 2010 $16.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$99.00
This top cuvée is produced by Bernard from vines that are over 120 years old. He has found family papers detailing the plantation of this vineyard back in 1888. When phylloxera arrived in the Beaujolais region in 1880, the advised local solution was to inject the soil with chemicals to kill the louse that attacks the vine’s roots. The Perrin family chose to follow what was considered to be a less orthodox more “avant-garde” route at the time and was among the first in the region to graft vines onto rootstock. When I first tasted the Cuvée Centenaire, I was blown away. Intensely-coloured, mellow notes of cassis and plums jump out of the glass and are followed by a structured, firm palate with delicious fruit. M6 D7 BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>
Tiny bubbles from Beaujolais Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Fresh fruit, melon, pears
Taste
Soft fine mousse
Serve
8° C
Evolution
One need only find an occasion
Ideal with
Lobster terrine, walnut crêpes
Fruity Gamay Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Red fruits
Taste
Light and soft
Serve
16° C
Evolution
Ready now
Ideal with
Cold turkey, baked ham
A special cuvée made from the fruit of old vines Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Ripe red and black fruits
Taste
Concentrated, rich palate with soft tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will benefit from time in bottle, drink over four years
Ideal with
Hangar steak with shallots
Small berries, small yield, big wine! Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Cassis, plums
Taste
Concentrated dark fruits, structured
Serve
17° C
Evolution
Drinking well already, expect more over five years
Ideal with
Moroccan lamb tagine, Feta
ALBERTA
13
de Thulon, AOC Beaujolais-Villages, 2011, 6357 Domaine Carine, Laurent Jambon $15.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$92.00
While the ancient system known as “métayage”, whereby the land is farmed for a proprietor, but the produce is split between the farmer and proprietor, is little used these days in other regions, it remains the most prevalent form of contract in Beaujolais. After twenty years as “métayers” Annie and René Jambon managed to purchase the vines and the beautiful 15th century buildings which make up Domaine de Thulon. It is now their children Carine and Laurent who manage the estate. Bursting with enthusiasm and lots of ideas to change the traditional perception of Beaujolais, they own 7.45 hectares of Beaujolais Villages at Lantignié, and produce a simple, easy drinking, fruity style. M7 D8
de Thulon, AOC Régnié, 2011, Carine, 6358 Domaine Laurent Jambon $16.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$96.00
The 15th century buildings which house the winery lie just outside Lantignié. To the west of the region and on the edge of the most recent of the Crus, Régnié was established in 1988. Here the relatively sandy soils produce soft, forward wines. The Jambons possess 5 hectares in Régnié with an age range of 20 to 55 years. This wine is quite light in colour, with fruit and a slightly barnyard aspect to it. It is nicely balanced and represents quite a traditional style. M7 D8
de la Roche Briday, AOC Morgon, 2011, 6359 Domaine Thomas Collonge $17.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$102.00
Bernard Collonge is handing over the reins to his son Thomas, making him the 8th generation to work on the estate. After a brief tour of the winery, as we tasted his wines Thomas animatedly explained the complexity of soil types in their vineyards and their contribution to the wines he makes, showing his passion and the great depth of knowledge already acquired. The winery, like all the producers we visited, has old concrete tanks, but here these are used only for storage and maturation. Thomas prefers to ferment in stainless steel and this, combined with de-stemming of fruit, creates wines emitting lovely redcurrant and cherry aromas with fresh cranberry crunchy fruit on the palate. The wine was matured in tank and old barrels, although there is no obvious oak. It is the fruit that dominates with a wonderful potential to age. M6 D7
Champagnon, AOC Chénas, 2011, Patrick 6360 Domaine Champagnon $17.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$102.00
Named after the oak forest that preceded the vines, Chénas is the smallest of the Beaujolais Crus situated on sandy gravel with granite soils. Patrick Champagnon is deadly serious and totally diligent about his wines. Overall he is happy with the state of the grapes, but would ideally have liked a bit more rain this year. Patrick cultivates 7ha with an average age of eighty years. His Chénas vineyards are north facing, giving cooler herbal flavours and good acidity. Full bunches are fermented with a maceration of eight to twelve days followed by ageing in old oak vats. M7 D7
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Light and fruity Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Restrained fruit
Taste
Medium body, cherry finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Meant to be consumed young, drink within two years
Ideal with
Stuffed cabbage rolls, veal shank with spring vegetables
A fuller-bodied Beaujolais Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Restrained red fruits
Taste
Red fruit, white pepper
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It can cellar up to five years, but is at its best within two years of bottling
Ideal with
Beef stroganoff, pork roast with bilberries
Robust and fleshy structure Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Redcurrants, red cherries
Taste
Cranberries, red fruits, long finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will continue to build over three years
Ideal with
Osso buco Milanese, Camembert
From the smallest producing of the ten Crus Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Herbal, red fruits, spice, violet
Taste
Light to medium weight with firm acidity
Serve
16° C
Evolution
Ready now, it will hold for up to three years
Ideal with
Lentil soup, beef stew with thyme and Dijon mustard
BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>
Desmures, AOC Chiroubles, 2011, Anne6361 Domaine Marie and Armand Desmures $17.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$103.00
The road to Domaine Desmures in Chiroubles is one of the prettiest in Beaujolais, and one of Bernard’s favourites, but I think that is because it looks across the valley towards Ternand! The day I met Armand he was recuperating from a fairly major operation, but you would never have known it; the excitement of the forthcoming vintage anticipated for August 30th was just too preoccupying. His energy was infectious as he pulled out different bottles and bottlings to taste while his wife Anne-Marie looked on, sighing and trying to remind Armand that he was meant to be taking it easy. Chiroubles is the highest of all the crus and the wines produced at Domaine Desmures are typically light, soft and “pretty”. M7 D8
Dit Barron, AOC Brouilly, 2011, Muriel 6362 Domaine and Gilles Aujogues $17.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$103.00
On the morning I met Muriel and Gilles Aujoques, harvest was in full swing next door. But, the contrast between Gilles’ vines and next door was all too evident. Next door the vines looked ragged and were heavy with crop. Gilles’ looked vibrant, possessing only a small number of clusters with very small berries. He was adamant that the grapes were not ready; he was going to wait at least another week. Just as well, as in the meantime Muriel was busy planning for the twentyeight pickers that were due to arrive, all of whom she feeds and lodges, cooking for a total forty-five people each day throughout the harvest. It is this traditional family approach and hard work that has won them numerous awards including the Prix d’Excellence in Paris in 2004 and the coveted trophy awarded by the Concours des Grands Vins du Beaujolais for his Brouilly in 2010. Gilles’ wines are a combination of fruit and savoury notes, firm with a long finish. M7 D7
BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>
The most aromatic of the Cru Beaujolais Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Cherries, strawberries, peony
Taste
Soft red fruits with fine structure and supple tannins
Serve
16° C
Evolution
It will present its best over three years
Ideal with
Roasted quail
Award winning producer Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Restrained cherry fruits
Taste
Good fruit, long bitter cherry finish
Serve
16° C
Evolution
Ageing potential up to three years
Ideal with
Pot-au-feu
Laurent Jambon in the courtyard of Domaine de Thulon
ALBERTA
15
de Haute Combe, AOC Juliénas, 2011, Vincent 6363 Clos Audras $17.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$105.00
As we sat in the underground vaulted cellar, Vincent Audras told me the history of the estate which has been in his family since it was purchased by his great-great grandfather as a summer residence in 1885. It was only in 1947 that Vincent’s father dedicated himself to the estate and to making wine full time. The vineyards surround the cellar and at an altitude of 430M, ripening is later than most and there is a strong risk of hail. Vincent shrugs his shoulders, treating this as if this was merely a minor irritation. Bursting with enthusiasm, he has ideas and is full of innovations which I hope we will be given the opportunity to see. In the meantime I have been sworn to secrecy. M8 D8
de la Sionnière, AOC Moulin à Vent, 2011, 6364 Domaine Estelle and Thomas Patenôtre $17.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$106.00
Moulin à Vent is the most powerful and muscular of the Beaujolais Crus, somewhat due, it is thought, to the presence of manganese in the pink granites and sands. Estelle and Thomas Patenôtre have a very traditional approach to winemaking and this almost certainly has an impact. While many estates now de-stem a proportion of their fruit, they use only whole bunches of grapes, immersing the cap and using a grill for a relatively long maceration lasting fifteen to seventeen days. This is followed by some oak ageing to produce structured wines with spicy incense aromas, meaty flavours and the potential to age; the 2006 was showing well with still plenty more potential. Given the ripeness and maturity of the 2011, it will be a wine for hiding away. M6 D6
de Montangeron, AOC Fleurie, 2010, 6365 Domaine Muriel and Frédéric Montangeron $17.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
Frédéric Montangeron firmly believes in the notion of terroir. He and his wife Muriel took over the running of the family vineyards in 1999, subsequently purchasing more vineyards and a wine cellar to create Domaine Montangeron in 2000. They have 5.5ha in Fleurie on varying soils, those closest to the winery on sandy friable granitic soils, with stonier soils in the north of the AOC. Traditional vinification is practiced where 99% of the vineyards benefit from south, south east exposure, and all are goblet bush vines with many over fifty years old. The 2010 has lovely raspberry and cherry flavours with a soft, elegant palate. M8 D8
16
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
A high point in Juliénas Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
White pepper, strawberries, raspberries
Taste
Light in structure, attractive fruit, long meaty finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will be at its best over two years
Ideal with
Chive and Gruyère soufflé, sliced Peking duck
The most structured Cru Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Black fruits, liquorice, spice
Taste
Meaty, firm tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It has stamina and will expand its flavor profile up to five years
Ideal with
Roasted hare filet with chanterelle mushrooms and chestnut purée
A new introduction to Opimian Grape Variety Gamay Aroma
Raspberries, cherries
Taste
Bright red cherry flavours, soft finish
Serve
16° C
Evolution
With potential to age, it will be at its finest over three to four years
Ideal with
Roasted lamb with ragout of broad beans
BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN
Southern Hemisphere
Based in the heart of the Beaujolais region, Thierry Paul Sapin Coulon and his team have reinvigorated and reinvented small traditional négociant firm of Paul Sapin, La Chapelle-de-Guinchay the expanding its horizons far beyond the region. Experts in
Sauvignon Blanc vines in the Wellington region of the Western Cape
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE PAUL SAPIN >>
sourcing quality wines from around the world, developing innovations in packaging formats, and using the latest technology, they are specialists in their field. Each of the wines offered are true to type, reflecting their source of origin and grape variety.
ALBERTA
17
Australia
6370
Semillon Chardonnay, On the Billabong, 2011, Riverina $10.50
12 BTLS/750 ML
$126.00
A typical Aussie combination of grapes, whereas Chardonnay is the most widely planted white variety in the world, Semillon is generally only found in quantity in Australia or in Bordeaux where it is usually blended with Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is great for sipping, with aromas of fresh green apples, fennel and other herbs, and a touch of vanilla. With medium weight and some length on the palate it represents good value. Grapes grown in the Riverina region were handpicked and fermented at low temperature. [02] M8 D8
6371
Grape Variety Semillon, Chardonnay Aroma
Fresh apples, fennel
Taste
Peaches, medium-bodied, crisp finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Ready to be enjoyed upon arrival
Ideal with
Char-grilled vegetables
Shiraz Cabernet, On the Billabong, 2011, Riverina $10.58
12 BTLS/750 ML
$127.00
This is another typical Aussie blend of varietals at which most European Old World producers would have scoffed; blending a Rhône varietal, Syrah, with the Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon grape – ooh-la-la! But, this combination has become a staple in Australia’s portfolio. The fruit was hand-picked separately and fermented to produce a supple medium-bodied wine, with intense fruity aromas of plum and blackcurrant, and hints of pepper. M8 D8
Ripe Shiraz ready for harvesting in the Riverina
18
An Aussie classic
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Warming and versatile Grape Variety Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Aroma
Plum, blackcurrant
Taste
Fruit with a touch of pepper
Serve
18° C
Evolution
For immediate enjoyment
Ideal with
Steak sandwich with caramelized onions
Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in Chile’s Central Valley wine region
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE PAUL SAPIN >>
New Zealand
6372
Sauvignon Blanc, Mount Vernon, 2011, Marlborough $13.00
12 BTLS/750 ML
$156.00
Marlborough’s reputation has developed on the production of quality Sauvignon Blanc such as this wine from Paul Sapin. Intense varietal aromas of gooseberry and passion fruit apparent on the nose are combined with apricots on the palate while pungent passion fruit acidity kicks in with a long sour lime finish. This is bold wine. While the harvest in New Zealand was not as challenging as in areas of Australia, it was a year where vigour and yields had to be controlled in order to achieve this level of concentration. [01] M8 D8
Generous on the nose and palate Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Gooseberries
Taste
Passion fruit, firm acidity
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Drink in its youth for full enjoyment
Ideal with
Chicken in lime and coriander
South Africa
Blanc, Kloof-en-Berg, 2011, W.O. Western 6373 Chenin Cape $9.67
6368
12 BTLS/750 ML
$116.00
Aroma
White fruits, fresh honey dew melon
COUPON
Taste
Soft, tropical fruits, round and easy
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Drink while it is vibrant and fresh
Ideal with
Spicy Asian cuisine, prawn risotto
6 BTLS/750 ML
Merlot Ruby Cabernet, Kloof-en-Berg, 2011, W.O. Breede River Valley $9.67
6369
12 BTLS/750 ML
$116.00
Focus on fruit Grape Variety Merlot, Ruby Cabernet
FREE CASE CHOICE FOR THIS SPECIAL OFFERING
Aroma
Black cherries, black fruits
COUPON
Taste
Concentrated fruit and spice
Serve
18° C
Evolution
To be enjoyed within two years
Ideal with
Tandoori chicken with rice
6 BTLS/750 ML
The vineyards are overlooked by the majestic Drakenstein Mountain near the Bainskloof Pass that links Wellington and Ceres. Intense deep ruby in colour, this wine is black cherries and other black fruits combined with a spicy, linty aroma often found in South African reds. Concentrated cherry flavours are complemented by an herbal flavour with good length on the palate. M8 D8
6375
Grape Variety Chenin Blanc
FREE CASE CHOICE FOR THIS SPECIAL OFFERING This is the sort of Chenin Blanc that South Africa winemakers make so well and is so completely different to that made in the Loire. Pale in colour with white fruits and fresh melons on the nose, it has a lovely, soft off-dry attack on the palate, round with lots of fresh fruit flavours; quite simple, but it is a versatile wine for everyday sipping. It will pair well with a whole range of foods and is great value for money. It is produced at the Bovlei Cellar at the foot of the Drakenstein Mountain between Paarl and Wellington. [01] M8 D9
6374
Chenin Blanc is known as Steen in South Africa
Shiraz, Kloof-en-Berg, 2011, W.O. Breede River Valley $9.92
12 BTLS/750 ML
$119.00
The Bainskloof Pass, completed in 1853, is said to be one of the most picturesque passes in the Cape; in 1980 it was classed as a national monument. It was built using convict labour. Workers had little more than picks, shovels, hand drills and sledgehammers to blast through 10km of solid rock and build 20M high retaining walls. Situated close to the Pass are the Shiraz vineyards which provided the grapes fermented to produce a ripe, spicy style with smooth tannins. M8 D8
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE PAUL SAPIN
An up and coming variety in South Africa Grape Variety Shiraz Aroma
Red and black fruits
Taste
Spicy notes
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Delicious now, it will retain its freshness over two years
Ideal with
Lamb tagine
ALBERTA
19
Wine for 2 Australia
6376
Wine for 2 - Semillon Chardonnay, Regenoak, 2011, Riverina $8.33
12 BTLS/500 ML
$100.00
This Semillon Chardonnay blend is produced in the Riverina region of New South Wales. This region, renowned for its dependable sunshine, high temperatures and low rainfall, has a reputation for producing wines full of sunshine. 2011 however was not a normal year. Winemakers found themselves challenged by climatic conditions throughout the growing season. The grapes were hand-picked and only the best were fermented, producing a wine with less tropical fruits than usual, but nice fresh apples, fennel and nutty aromas. [02] M8 D9
20
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
A successful combination
Grape Variety Semillon, Chardonnay Aroma
Fresh apples, melon
Taste
Medium-bodied, fresh acidity on the finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Ready to be opened
Ideal with
Nut roast, roast chicken with stuffing
WINE FOR 2 PAUL SAPIN >>
2
6377
Wine for 2 – Shiraz Cabernet, Regenoak, 2011, Riverina $8.42
12 BTLS/500 ML
$101.00
For those occasions when one hesitates to open a full bottle, but not wanting to deprive ourselves of the pleasure of a glass of wine at the end of the day, the 500 ml. bottle is a great idea, and you do not even have to hunt for the corkscrew! The grapes were hand-harvested and fermented to produce a supple medium-bodied wine with intense fruity aromas of plums and blackcurrants. M8 D8
Chile
6378
Wine for 2 – Sauvignon Blanc, Paulita, 2011, Central Valley $8.25
12 BTLS/500 ML
$99.00
Chile goes from strength to strength as a country making and offering wines at great value all the way through the quality spectrum. And they are bullish too, recent statements from a number of big companies have committed to considerably extending their vineyards. The Paulita Sauvignon Blanc shouts gooseberries and gunflint, with quite a broad structure on the palate. The aromas are enhanced with floral notes of elderflowers, and a persistency which remains. [00] M8 D9
6379
Wine for 2 – Cabernet Sauvignon, Paulita, 2011, Central Valley $8.42
12 BTLS/500 ML
$101.00
This long thin country with its clear blue skies, high sunshine hours, melting mountain snow and lack of disease and pests, all combine to make Chile one of the leading producers of good value Cabernet Sauvignon in the world; rich, concentrated blackcurrant fruits with full body. It is believed that it is the antioxidant resveratrol in red wine that is good for you, helping to protect against heart disease. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the grape varieties with the highest level of this compound and some Chilean wineries claim the nature of the climate maximizes the amount of resveratrol produced in the grapes. M8 D8
Ripe and soft fruit medley Grape Variety Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Aroma
Plum, blackcurrant
Taste
Dark fruits, peppery hints
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Enjoy its pure fruit characteristics
Ideal with
Butternut squash soup
Fruit-driven Chilean Sauvignon Blanc Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Gooseberry, flinty
Taste
Elderflower, gooseberry, citrus notes
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It is delicious now, drink over two years
Ideal with
Goat cheese salad
Mature fruit flavours Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon Aroma
Blackcurrant, smoky
Taste
Rich concentrated black fruits
Serve
18° C
Evolution
No need to prolong the wait
Ideal with
Spicy pasta dishes
New Zealand
6380
Wine for 2 - Sauvignon Blanc, Ta Moko, 2011, Marlborough $10.08
12 BTLS/500 ML
$121.00
Pale yellow with a green hue, this wine is a vivid, refreshing expression of Sauvignon Blanc. An intense bouquet of passion fruit and white fruit balance the naturally high acidity of the varietal. It can be served as an aperitif, or to perfectly complement a meal for two! [01] M8 D8
WINE FOR 2 PAUL SAPIN >>
Vivid and refreshing Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Passion fruit, gooseberry
Taste
Passion fruit
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Perfectly ready
Ideal with
Fresh crayfish and rocket salad
ALBERTA
21
South Africa
6381
Wine for 2 - Pinotage Rosé, The Whistling Thorn, 2011, W.O. Western Cape $7.83
12 BTLS/500 ML
$94.00
Perfect to take on a picnic, this rosé has an orange-pink hue to it. On the nose soft summer berries combine with toffee notes and spice from the Pinotage grape. The rise in popularity of rosé wine around the world has provided winemakers in South Africa with an opportunity. Pinotage, synonymous with South Africa, represents 6% of the total vineyard area, but is not always of sufficiently high quality to produce good red wines. However, it does make a pleasing rosé for a summer evening. [00] M8 D9
6382
Wine for 2 – Shiraz, The Whistling Thorn, 2011, W.O. Western Cape $7.92
12 BTLS/500 ML
$95.00
The wine is named after a native African acacia tree which is fed upon by giraffes and other large herbivores. Much of the improvement in South African red wines over the last ten years is due to changes made in the vineyards which reduce some of the earthy, smoky or leathery elements that could be found in the wines. Shiraz is the second most planted red variety in South Africa, after Cabernet Sauvignon, and is used here to produce a wine with spicy black fruit and a soft body. M8 D8 Taken in the Wellington region of the Western Cape, Thierry Coulon, Managing Director of Paul Sapin, approves of the quality of the Pinotage grapes ready for harvest
22
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Perfect Picnic Pink Pinotage Grape Variety Pinotage Aroma
Summer berries, toffee
Taste
Light tannic structure
Serve
6° C
Evolution
Ready as soon as it is bottled
Ideal with
Spicy Thai salad with char-grilled seafood
South Africa is the fourth largest producer of Shiraz in the world Grape Variety Shiraz Aroma
Black berries
Taste
Warm, soft tannin, spicy notes
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Lovely now, savour it over two years
Ideal with
Rib-eye steak, hamburgers
Pinotage vineyards in the Wellington region
WINE FOR 2 PAUL SAPIN
South Africa
Jacques Fourie, Clovelly Wines Devonvale Based in Devon Valley on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, Jacques brings us a range of wines with the popular Wild Fig, The Rosé, and The Berry, produced exclusively for Opimian. Having travelled and worked extensively in South Africa and abroad, Jacques uses his skills to make his own wines as well as those of neighbouring Kyburg Estate, a project he has been intimately involved with since its inception.
Pincushions are part of the Cape Fynbos and grow around Clovelly Wines. Jacques likens the picking and balancing of the flowers by the woman pictured to the work that is done by the viticulturalist and winemaker and the process of vineyard tending, harvesting, winemaking and barrel ageing. It is a balancing act.
SOUTH AFRICA JACQUES FOURIE, CLOVELLY WINES >>
ALBERTA
23
6383 Wild Fig White, 2011, Stellenbosch $14.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$89.00
One might be forgiven for thinking it is autosuggestion, but this wine, as the name suggests, has aromas of ripe figs and white stone fruits. This year Jacques chose to switch from Sauvignon Blanc sourced in Robertson to Chenin Blanc from Stellenbosch, and produced in Stellenbosch. The grapes were night-harvested to preserve the fresh aromas. After a short period of skin contact the wine was fermented at low temperature, producing fresh green apple flavours on the palate with a tangy lemon and grapefruit citrus finish. [00] M8 D9
6384
The Rosé, 2011, Stellenbosch $14.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$89.00
Produced from Shiraz, it is quite dark in the colour spectrum for rosé wine, being a vibrant ruby pink. Berry fruit aromas combine with an earthiness typical of the variety while on the palate it is a fairly serious vinous style which will work well with food and is ideal for outdoor summer barbecues. Specially made for Opimian, the fruit for this year’s wine were sourced in Stellenbosch where Jacques works with selected growers. The grapes were picked in the cool of night and quickly and gently pressed. After settling, the juice was decanted and fermented at low temperature. [00] M8 D9
6385
Grape Variety Chenin Blanc Aroma
White stone fruits, figs
Taste
Fresh apples, tangy lemon and grapefruit finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
At its best now
Ideal with
Asian chicken salad on endive
Fire up the braai Grape Variety Shiraz Aroma
Berries, floral
Taste
Serious vinous style
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Made for early enjoyment
Ideal with
Seared tuna, canapés
The Berry Red, 2010, Stellenbosch $15.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$92.00
Living up to its name, this wine has aromas of wild berries, blueberries and blackberries. With medium body on the palate, the vibrant fruits and summer pudding flavours show through, followed by zesty cassis-like acidity. The tannins are soft and it ends with a bitter cherry flavour. A truly modern style, everything was done in the winery to preserve the fruit flavours and to avoid extraction of any harsh tannin. Using hand-picked grapes grown in Stellenbosch, the clusters were de-stemmed, with no crushing, gravity fed into tanks, and fermented at low temperature with only limited maceration on skins. M8 D8
6386 Clovelly Three Sides Vineyard Blend, 2005 $20.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$124.00
The name refers to the trio of partners at Clovelly; Jacques, his wife Mineke and father-in-law Deon Toerien, as well as the property which is triangular in shape. In some years this wine is a single varietal; however in 2005 it was produced from three varieties, the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz. 2005 was a high quality year in Stellenbosch with early budding leading to an early harvest and a fairly small crop. This wine is drinking beautifully at the moment. Its intense nose with smoky notes, incense with black fruit, olives, some green bean and thyme, introduces a rich palate with nice tertiary, meaty, smoky flavours and firm, but not aggressive tannins. M6 D7
24
Chenin Blanc from the premium wine-growing area of Stellenbosch
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Crushed summer fruits Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinotage Aroma
Summer wild berries, blueberries, blackberries
Taste
Summer pudding with zesty cassis acidity and soft tannins
Serve
16° C
Evolution
Drink over two to three years
Ideal with
Blackened fish
All the threes Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz Aroma
Smoky incense with black fruits, olives, green bean, thyme
Taste
Rich palate with developed meaty, smoky flavours and firm tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Showing nice development, drink over three to five years
Ideal with
Country style guinea fowl
SOUTH AFRICA JACQUES FOURIE, CLOVELLY WINES >>
Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008, Devon Valley, 6387 Kyburg Stellenbosch $26.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$159.00
Owners Rosmarie and Fred Ruest grew up in a historic village in Switzerland overlooked by Kyburg Castle, the inspiration for the naming of their vineyard. Having purchased the estate in 1997, they re-planted 18 hectares in 2000 and 2001 switching from white to red varieties more suited to the deep, fertile oakleaf and Tukulu soil. Jacques, involved from the start, made the first wine in 2006. Cabernet Sauvignon was hand-picked into small crates and the grapes cooled in cold store prior to de-stemming. It has much concentration and depth of flavour considering this is only the third year it has been produced, from relatively young vines. The wine was aged for twelve months in oak, 20 % new, giving it an interesting balsamic note which complements the red cherry kirsch aromas. Medium to full bodied, it has soft tannins with bitter cherry flavours on the finish. M6 D6
33 Latitude, 2008, Devon Valley, 6388 Kyburg Stellenbosch $26.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$159.00
This is a blend of the three varietals planted on the estate. Despite being predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz asserts itself giving the wine spicy, chocolate characteristics which combine with the fruit coming from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. An extremely approachable style, this is more accessible for earlier drinking than the straight Cabernet Sauvignon, with medium body and soft tannins. Each varietal was picked and vinified separately. After cold maceration for four days the wine was fermented and then matured in new and one year old French oak barrels. M7 D7
Kirsch and balsamic notes Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon Aroma
Red cherries
Taste
Bitter cherries, long finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It merits cellaring, drink over five years
Ideal with
Sirloin with red wine and truffle sauce
Concentrated and fruity Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot Aroma
Spicy, chocolate, restrained fruits
Taste
Soft attack, dark fruits
Serve
18° C
Evolution
This is a four year wine
Ideal with
Venison stew with potato dumplings
Fred and Rosmarie Ruest are living their dream of growing grapes that produce top quality wines
SOUTH AFRICA JACQUES FOURIE, CLOVELLY WINES
ALBERTA
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Cloof Wine Estate Darling The fence line which separates the Cloof Wine Estate and Burghers Post, neighbouring properties which have earned “Champion” status under the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative program.
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
This is the first-time offering of wines from the Darling region. When the first vineyards on the Cloof Estate were planted in the 1960s, the Darling region was an enclave of Swartland, known for its cereal and wheat production. Since that time it has built up a reputation for quality wines, benefitting from the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean and its cooling effect. In 2003, Darling was declared a wine region in its own right. Cloof Estate now has 145 hectares of vineyards managed by viticulturalist Peter Duckitt. There is a strong company ethos and focus on bio-diversity with an active programme to re-introduce endangered species.
SOUTH AFRICA CLOOF WINE ESTATE >>
Bush vines Pinotage being harvested at the Cloof Wine Estate
6389
Bush Vines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, 2009, Darling $15.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$92.00
With lots of dark fruits and blueberries, it is soft, light and very easy. Three traditional Bordeaux grape varieties are grown on free-standing bush vines. In this climate the lack of irrigation gives very low yields. The Merlot and Cabernet Franc ripened at the same time and were picked and fermented using Bordeaux yeast and subsequently aged in oak barrels. The Cabernet Sauvignon, a later ripening variety, was picked and matured in stainless steel. The two elements combine to create this fruit bomb. M8 D9
6390
Pinotage, 2009, Darling $17.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
Some people love Pinotage and others hate it. I tend to fall in the latter category as sadly it can often be leathery, hard and dry, which is why the excitement builds when I find an example such as this one with concentrated black and red cherries combined with baked apples and chewy tannins rounding off the finish. This is the sort of wine that is making Darling’s reputation for quality wines. Made from 100% Pinotage from twenty-five and thirty-five year old plots with low yields of three to five tons per hectare, the wine was aged for fifteen months in barrel and has lots of life ahead of it. M6 D6
6391 Duckitt Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, 2007, Darling $17.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
The wine is named after William Duckitt, an early British settler to the Darling region in the 1800s and agricultural adviser on farming methods. The Duckitt family became one of the most prolific in the region. Many generations later, descendant Peter Duckitt is the viticulturalist responsible for the Cloof vineyards. The two varieties were harvested separately with Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown on standing bush vines and the Merlot from relatively young plants, but with very low yields. Savoury in style with herbs, green peppers and okra, this wine has a tremendous velvet structure on the palate and was aged for fifteen months in barrel. M7 D8
SOUTH AFRICA CLOOF WINE ESTATE
Entrances to the Cloof Wine Estate tasting room and hospitality center
Bright brambly fruits Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc Aroma
Brambly fruit, blueberries
Taste
Soft, light and fruity
Serve
16° C
Evolution
Drinking at its best
Ideal with
Spiced roast chicken
Darling it is Grape Variety Pinotage Aroma
Baked apples
Taste
Black and red cherries, concentrated with chewy tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will soften over three to four years
Ideal with
Smoked duck with chicory and fig salad
Descended from an early Darling settler Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Aroma
Herbal, okra, spice
Taste
Soft structure showing good maturity with balance
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will keep two years
Ideal with
Beef curry soup
ALBERTA
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A South African Assemblage Here, we feature an assemblage of South African wineries and producers. We begin with Fortress Hill, northwest of Stellenbosch and the brainchild of a Namibian doctor and his wife; next we travel to Riebeek Cellars in Swartland, a cooperative established in the 1940s which brings two wines made from grapes grown on the unique terroir of the Riebeek Valley; back to Stellenbosch we include a Shiraz/Merlot blend from Zidela Wines where they live by their motto “Wine is our yesterday, today and tomorrow!” Continuing on in Stellenbosch, we introduce Teddy Hall who creates wines that personify the beauty of the South African landscape and finally to Stellekaya where awardwinning winemaker Ntsiki Biyela brings her winemaking talents to the Merlot grape variety.
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
The charm of the Fort Simon Wine Estate is centered on the unusual stone architecture which was inspired by Namibian stone houses and medieval European castles. The state-of-the-art cellar is housed in the castle which overlooks the vineyards. The actual cellar resembles a fort complete with cannon and draw-bridge
SOUTH AFRICA A SOUTH AFRICAN ASSEMBLAGE >>
6392
Fortress Hill Chardonnay, 2009, Stellenbosch, Fort Simon Wine Estate $16.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$99.00
Complete with medieval castle, moat and cannons, Fort Simon in the Bottelary Hills northwest of Stellenbosch was the brainchild of Namibian doctor Simon Uys and his wife Anna. The estate has over seventy hectares of vineyards of which six are planted to four different clones of Chardonnay expertly tended to by Simon’s son, Renier Uys until harvest when they are handed over to winemaker Marinus Bredell. These vineyards were planted in 1990 and face south west and north east, benefitting from the cooling breezes blowing in from False Bay and Table Bay. The juice was left in contact with the skins for four hours and then transferred to new French oak barrels for fermentation. This has resulted in a wine with delicious toasty, roasted hazelnut aromas combined with honey, buttery flavours and great length. [01] M8 D8
6393 Riebeek Cellars Chardonnay, 2011, Swartland $15.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$92.00
Swartland, traditionally a cereal producing area, was long considered only fit for making wines for blending; more recently it has come into its own. Riebeek Cellars, a cooperative established in the 1940s, sits in the foothill of the Kasteelberg Mountain in the heart of the fertile Riebeek Valley. At the forefront of change in the region, the cellar was the first in the valley to create a Black Empowerment Project, Partnership Vineyard. Over 151 people from the Riebeek Valley are partners in the farm and last year, Christo Somers, director of the project and laboratory technician and wine administrator for Riebeek Cellars was awarded the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Farm Worker of the Year Award. This unwooded style presents white cooked fruit aromas, and a soft round palate. [00] M8 D8
SOUTH AFRICA A SOUTH AFRICAN ASSEMBLAGE >>
Côte d’Or style Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Toasty, ripe peaches
Taste
Honeyed, buttery toasty flavours
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Delicious drinking over the next two years
Ideal with
Snails in garlic butter
Fresh unwooded Chardonnay Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
White fruits
Taste
Soft, tropical, lingering citrus finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Best in its youth
Ideal with
Mango salad, grilled calamari
Left: The winemakers at Riebeek Cellars keep up with world trends, but ensure that their wines remain “Riebeek” in style Right: In 2003, his fellow winemakers invited Teddy Hall to join the Cape Winemakers Guild, the crème-de-la-crème of South African winemaking talent with only 36 members
ALBERTA
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6394 Riebeek Cellars Merlot, 2011, Swartland $17.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$103.00
This is one of the most popular wines in the Riebeek range made by winemaker Alecia Hamman. Alecia looks to make wines that have “upfront fruit flavours and soft friendly tannins”. Produced from 100% Merlot, the wine has an herbal, green pepper note which complements the berry characteristics. The tannins are fine with a slight chewiness on the finish, and the use of oak is not perceptible, but provides concentration on the palate. After picking, the grapes were cold-soaked overnight and fermented at 24 to 26˚C, followed by barrel maturation in second and third fill barrels. M7 D8
6395
Suikerbosch Shiraz Merlot, 2010, W.O. Western Cape, Zidela Wines $14.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$88.00
The word Zidela comes from the Zulu language, one of South Africa’s eleven official languages, and means reconciliation or “to give something of oneself to help others”. Managing Director Danie Kritzinger and Herman Nell founded the company situated in Stellenbosch in 2001 and both want to be of service to the industry, promoting wines at home and abroad, hence the name. The grapes for this wine came from the lower slopes of the Du Toitskloof Mountains. Quite restrained on the nose, it has a nice soft palate with more fruit expression and some linty, spicy flavours. M7 D8
6396
6 BTLS/750 ML
$98.00
Teddy Hall describes himself as the ultimate ‘80s yuppie; working as a broker in Pretoria, driving a flashy BMW, living in a plush penthouse apartment, dining in posh restaurants and of course drinking fine wines. Then the epiphany; he upped sticks in the early ‘90s, took a job initially as a cellar rat and went back to school to study viticulture and oenology in Stellenbosch. Twenty years later he is recognized as one of the leading winemakers in the Cape with his wines regularly featured in the top 100 South African wines. He has successfully developed his own range and company and is a member of the quality focused Cape Winemakers Guild. His Winter Moments is deep plum in colour, with an intense nose of cherries and smoked wood. It is soft and juicy on the palate with ripe berry flavours and a lengthy, chocolaty finish. M6 D6
Stellekaya Merlot, 2008, Stellenbosch $22.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$134.00
As a fan of Stellekaya wines, I think winemaker Ntsiki Biyela is doing a grand job representing a new generation of young, female winemakers. Ntsiki has a passion for red wine and her focus is on producing noble red varietals exemplified by this Merlot which is starting to show nice development and complex characteristics. Brick ruby in colour, it has menthol and cherry notes combined with more tertiary earthy and undergrowth elements. It is light to mediumbodied with juicy acidity, fine tannin structure and a long cherry menthol finish. The vines are dry-farmed on the southern slopes of Stellenbosch Mountain at 180 to 200M. After fermentation in open top fermenters the wine was matured in French oak barrels for twenty-two months. M7 D7
30
Grape Variety Merlot Aroma
Red berries, green peppers
Taste
Soft with medium body, firm tannins on the finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Enjoy over the next three years
Ideal with
Beef ravioli
Easy drinking structure Grape Variety Shiraz, Merlot Aroma
Restrained cooked fruits
Taste
Soft palate, blackberry fruit, herbal, spicy flavours
Serve
18° C
Evolution
At its best over two years
Ideal with
Gourmet pizza, winter stews
Teddy Hall Winter Moments, 2010, Stellenbosch $16.33
6397
Wines from the fertile Riebeek Valley
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
Yuppie turns award winning winemaker Grape Variety Shiraz, Merlot, Pinotage, Roobernet Aroma
Ripe black fruit, plums
Taste
Rich fruit, dark chocolate, velvety tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will gain complexity over three to four years
Ideal with
Slow oven-roasted lamb with rosemary
A unique wine from a new generation of South African winemaker Grape Variety Merlot Aroma
Complex, evolved bouquet, cherry menthol, undergrowth
Taste
Medium-bodied with long cherry menthol flavour and fine tannin structure
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Lovely and developed now, drink over the next three years
Ideal with
Beef Wellington in puff pastry, dark chocolate desserts
SOUTH AFRICA A SOUTH AFRICAN ASSEMBLAGE
Opimian’s treasure trove of Champagnes, fortified wines and spirits Champagnes, fortified wines and spirits
ALBERTA
31
Champagne
Chigny-Les-Roses church surrounded by vineyards
Champagne Gardet Chigny-Les-Roses This small Champagne House was established in 1895 by Charles Gardet and has been based at Chigny-Les-Roses in the Montagne de Reims since the 1930’s when it was moved by Charles’s son George. Now owned by Christophe Prieux, the House continues to focus on quality Champagne production. Unlike many Champagne Houses, Gardet owns some vineyards and refuses to buy wines “sur lattes”, which are Champagnes prepared and bottled by other producers, and sold to those who wish to place their own label on the bottles. Winemaker and oenologist Stéphanie Sucheyre strives to make Champagnes with character and has been experimenting with oak and other techniques to produce different cuvées, each with their own personality.
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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
CHAMPAGNE CHAMPAGNE GARDET >>
Gardet Brut Premier Cru, Chigny-Les6398 Champagne Roses $35.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$213.00
Based as it is in the Montagne de Reims, it is no surprise that Gardet specializes in Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. This blend of 60% Pinot Noir with 40% Pinot Meunier was made from the Premier Cru vineyard in Hautvillers, considered the birthplace of Champagne as we know it. Hautvillers was home to the famous Benedictine monk Dom Perignon who developed the Méthode Champenoise technique. On the nose, the floral blossom notes are an expression of the Pinot Meunier grape, while the Pinot Noir adds structure and depth. Delicious now, this Champagne has the potential for keeping. [02]
Premier Cru Hautvillers Grape Variety Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier Aroma
Floral, earthy nose
Taste
Medium weight, structured with a long finish
Serve
6° C
Evolution
It will cellar up to three years
Ideal with
Aperitif, duck with prunes
Champagne Gardet Brut Reserve, Chigny-Les-Roses
6399 $36.50 6400 $19.83 6401 $75.67
A food-friendly Champagne
6 BTLS/750 ML $219.00 12 BTLS/375 ML $238.00
Grape Variety Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
3 BTLS/1500 ML $227.00
Aroma
Ripe fruit nose, apricot, brioche
In Champagne, many Houses are returning to the use of oak to add complexity and texture without being obvious. The Brut Reserve is produced from a third of each of the main varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir, with 25% of oak aged reserve wines. The result is Champagne bright in colour, with mellow ripe fruit aromas. It has structure, great balance, and a long finish. It can be served with food, as well as making a great aperitif. [02]
Taste
Soft creamy texture, orange peel, balanced with a long finish
Serve
6° C
Evolution
Ready to drink over three years
Ideal with
Rich poultry such as goose or capon
Charles Gardet Brut Premier Cru, 6402 Champagne Millésime 2002, Chigny-Les-Roses $47.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$287.00
A truly premium cuvée Grape Variety Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
This is a really classy and elegant top of the range Champagne. The high proportion of Chardonnay in the blend gives this cuvée its elegant, lime custard nose. With grapes coming from mainly Premier and Grand Crus vineyards, the fresh style is created though preventing malolactic fermentation from occurring. Pinot Noir has added structure and depth, giving the wine a lingering aftertaste with the potential to age. If kept, this Champagne will become more toasty and fatter on the palate, but it will require a huge amount of self-discipline as it is so delicious now! [02]
Aroma
Elegant, fresh pear and peach notes, lemon zest
Taste
Finesse with depth, spiced vanilla, floral, generous length
Serve
6° C
Evolution
Delicious now, it will develop more toasty aromas and richness, cellar five years
Ideal with
Aperitif par excellence, lobster tail, salt-crusted bass
Christophe Prieux, CEO Gardet
CHAMPAGNE CHAMPAGNE GARDET
Wooden casks, some of which are over a hundred years old, are used for Gardet’s Reserves
ALBERTA
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Sherry Sherry is produced almost exclusively in “the Sherry Triangle,” an area marked by three Andalucían towns – Jerez de la Frontèra, El Puerto de Santa María and Sanlúcar de Barrameda. It comes in a wide spectrum of hues, from pale to dark; straw to amber to chocolate brown. Each shade carries with it a unique taste. In addition to the Opimian Pedro Ximénez from Bodegas Tomás Abad, this year’s Sherry selection introduces three new products from the Caballero Sherry range. Manuel Lozano was recently awarded Fortified Winemaker of the Year as well as the coveted Len Evans Trophy by the International Wine Challenge at the annual awards dinner held in London in September. The trophy recognizes the producer who has consistently performed over the last five years. As a Panel Chair judge of the competition, I was absolutely delighted; Manuel produces outstanding Sherries. If you still hold strong to the myth that this drink is only for your granny, think again. Sherry has taken on a youthful vitality and matches brilliantly with food; go ahead, give it a try!
34
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
SHERRY >>
6403
6405 Oloroso Real, Luis Caballero SA
Pavon Puerto Fino, Luis Caballero SA $14.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$87.00
$17.17
A superb example of Fino and very pale in colour, it is marked by the aromas conferred by the development of flor, giving it an intense, elegant yeasty, doughy, smoky mineral character. Palomino grapes grown on typical white Albariza soils around the coastal town of El Puerto de Santa María were fermented and the best batches selected to produce Fino Sherry. After fortification to 15% alcohol, the young Sherry is put into American oak casks and the flor yeast develops on the top as a sort of protective skin, preventing oxidation and imparting its own characteristics. On the palate it is delicate with a long mineral flavor, just as they drink it in the traditional bars in Andalucía! Serve it with roasted almonds, sushi, green olives or fresh anchovies. [00]
Palomino Fino grapevines growing in the white, chalky Albariza soil
6 BTLS/750 ML
$103.00
A very old Amontillado, it is produced from a limited stock of casks owned by the Caballero family. Intense nutty, candied fruits and smoky aromas follow through onto the palate combined with mellow vanilla flavours. This Amontillado has real depth and complexity, with an extremely long, dry finish. Having started life as a Fino, the Sherry was further fortified to 18,5% and subsequently aged oxidatively in the Solera system in American oak casks, giving it its rich, mellow, nutty features. Serve it with smoked fish or charcuterie. [01]
SHERRY
$103.00
Deep orange-brown in colour, this Sherry was aged in the Solera system for an average of twelve years. In this cascade system, Sherries are aged in a series of barrels, and as the finished Sherries are drawn off from the oldest barrels for bottling, those barrels are topped up from the preceding level with younger Sherries and they in turn are topped up. Complex with intense nuts and fruit and a touch of sweetness it can be enjoyed with a bowl of roasted almonds, hard cheese such as Manchego at the end of a meal or if feeling particularly daring makes a perfect partner to partridge or pheasant. [02]
Caballero’s famed winemaker, Manuel Lozano
6404 Don Luis Amontillado, Luis Caballero SA $17.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
The cellars in which the Pavón Puerto Fino is aged
6406 Opimian Pedro Ximénez, Bodegas Tomás Abad $20.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$124.00
Pure treacle! Pedro Ximénez grape bunches were picked and left to dry in the sun to concentrate flavours and aromas. Intense dark mahogany in colour with rich raisin fruits on the nose, these follow through onto a voluptuous palate with liquorice notes and roasted coffee. With over 400g per litre of sugar, it has a rich syrupy texture and can be served with raisin puddings and tarts or even poured over vanilla ice cream! [10]
ALBERTA
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Scots Malt Whisky Pràban na Linne Isle of Skye, Scotland
Based on the Isle of Skye, Pràban na Linne was established by Sir Iain Noble to produce authentic Gaelic Whiskies and is one of the few remaining family businesses in the Scotch Whisky industry. In keeping with traditional methods, all the Whiskies are unchillfiltered; this is the authentic method used originally by the Gaels when they first invented Whisky. By using this method all the natural ingredients are retained, resulting in smoother, softer flavours.
The Pràban na Linne headquarters are located in the area known as Sleat. The body of water from which this photo was taking is the Sound of Sleat
36
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
SCOTS MALT WHISKY Pràban na Linne >>
Adjacent to the company headquarters is a hotel operated under the same ownership
6407
An Lamraig Blended Scotch Whisky $33.50
6 BTLS/700 ML
$201.00
Specially made for Opimian, this is a rich blend with fresh citrus notes and a peaty, smoky flavour. Smooth with creamy toffee overtones and a long finish, this blended Whisky has high malt content; it was aged in Sherry barrels.
6408 Cùl na Creagan, 12 Year Old Malt Scotch Whisky $42.33
6 BTLS/700 ML
$254.00
Medium deep orange in colour, it has a pungent smoky, peaty nose combining Islay peatiness and Speyside sweetness. With a hint of citrus and liquorice on the nose, it is dry, lightly peated and soft with an elegant, full-bodied flavour and smooth finish.
6409 Cùl na Creagan, 21 Year Old Malt Scotch Whisky $70.50
6 BTLS/700 ML
$423.00
Deeper in colour, with intense vanilla notes and subtle hints of oak and peat, on the palate it is rich with smoky overtones balanced by a sweet Sherry oak finish. Long and smooth, it is perfectly integrated with a lingering smokiness.
Eilean Iarmain lighthouse
SCOTS MALT WHISKY Pràban na Linne
This old still is featured in the Pràban na Linne tasting centre and shop at Eilean Iarmain. It is typical of an illicit still in which illegal whiskies may have been produced when whisky was first invented
ALBERTA
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Cognac & Brandy Unicognac Saint-Germainde-Lusignan Based in the heart of the CharenteMaritime in Cognac country at Saint-Germain-de-Lusignan, Unicognac has eighteen copper pot stills for distilling Cognac between the months of October and March. These young fiery spirits are subsequently aged in Limousin and Tronçais oak barrels in one of the ten ageing cellars belonging to the group.
Leonetto Cappiello 1875-1942 Inventor of the modern poster
38
OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 50
COGNAC & BRANDY UNICOGNAC >>
6410 Jules Gautret Pineau des Charentes Blanc $26.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$157.00
$38.83
Pineau des Charentes is a sweet, smooth aperitif with soft aromatic appeal and vanilla flavours; it is traditional in the Cognac region in south west France. Made from the same grapes as Cognac - Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche and Colombard - according to legend it was discovered by chance when a cellar worker accidentally added unfermented juice to Cognac. After pressing, the juice is run into barrels and is “mute”, preventing any onset of alcoholic fermentation through the addition of Cognac and leaving a high level of residual sugar. It is then aged in oak barrels.
6411
6 BTLS/750 ML
$233.00
This is a blend of Cognacs coming from two of the most highly prized sub-regions, Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. The grapes from these two regions are picked in September and October and are naturally fermented to give a light simple wine which is then double distilled in the traditional copper Alambic stills between the months of October and March. The young spirit is then aged in Limousin oak barrels to temper its fieriness and to mellow it, giving off the “Angels’ share” at the same time.
$73.33 $198.00
While produced from similar grape varieties and a similar process to Cognac, Armagnac has a personality of its own, giving it pungent, earthier, rustic components. The Gascony region lies further south in the foothills of the Pyrénées. After natural fermentation, the wine is single distilled in a column still. Subsequent ageing in old Limousin barrels rounds it out, providing a soft mellow palate.
Cognac pot still
COGNAC & BRANDY UNICOGNAC
6 BTLS/750 ML
6413 Jules Gautret Cognac XO [With gift box]
Armagnac Leriche *** $33.00
6412 Lauriac Cognac VS Fine Champagne
3 BTLS/700 ML
$220.00
Jules Gautret founded his eponymous Cognac House in Jonzac in 1847. The company became part of the Unicognac group nearly fifty years ago and his successors continue to use the highest quality grapes from the prized Petite Champagne sub-region. The XO has a deep brown colour and mellow vanilla spices on the nose. On the palate it is smooth and mellow, with nutty vanilla flavours; it offers a perfect end to a special dinner.
The Château de Cognac sits on the banks of the Charente
ALBERTA
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OUR COUPON PROGRAMS
Refer a new member, and upon
joining, both you and the new member will receive a coupon for one of two great rewards
YOUR COUPON GIVES YOU OPTIONS! 1. Order a case of wine & choose your free case from the free case choices for this Special Offering: Lot 6368 (See Lot 6373 on page 19) Lot 6369 (See Lot 6374 on page 19)
OUR WINE PROGRAMS OPIMIAN SELECT Taste the World!
Only Opimian gives you access to exclusive cellars from around the world. A successful innovation catered to New Members and those who are still uncertain of what to order, the Opimian Select program allows you to try a minimum of 24 wines – from every day sippers to a gourmet dinner partner – at a fixed price of $83. Sign up for Opimian Select and receive a mixed case from every Cellar Offering regardless of whether you are away, on holidays or simply forgot to place your order. Develop your palate, taste the classics from each region, discover new varietals and experience what our suppliers have to offer! Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE SELECTION Opimian Select includes a case (6 bottles) of three to six different wines from a featured supplier on each Cellar Offering. Mostly reds with the occasional white or rosé, these wines showcase the variety of styles available through Opimian - if you happen to find a favourite wine, make note of the supplier for future Cellar Offerings! To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Opimian Select” in the left hand column. View details by clicking on each wine name or supplier.
“Opimian Select is an educational experience and, as any wine lover knows, it is essential and fun to continuously try new things.”
~ David Lawrason, Toronto Life
OR 2. Order two cases of wine & receive $75 off your order
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800-361-9421
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~ Roberto Echeverría, Opimian Supplier
FOUNDERS’ CHOICE Cherish the Experience! The premium wine experience – only with Opimian!
Established in recognition of Opimian’s founders, this program offers premium wines from our most cherished suppliers – at a fixed price of $123. Each wine is specifically selected to dedicate to the spirit of Opimian. Some are hidden jewels discovered in a cellar by our Master of Wine; others are specially crafted by our suppliers with the Founders’ Choice program in mind. Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE WINES Sign up for Founders’ Choice and receive a case (6 bottles) of premium wine from every Cellar Offering that is ready to drink and has great cellaring ability. Each wine comes with a dedicated back label and a personal message from the supplier detailing why they chose to share with us this one-of-a-kind wine. These wines are not, and will never be, on any Cellar Offering and can only be received by signing up for this program. To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Founders’ Choice” in the left hand column. Bernard Perrin is the Founders’ Choice feature supplier on this Special Offering. #420 - 5165 Sherbrooke West, Montreal, QC, H4A 1T6 T: 514-483-5551 or 800-361-9421 F: 514-481-9699 opim@opim.ca www.opim.ca