The late Summer heat wave is finally over - for now - which will please the grapes in the vineyards!  Hard to get your acid levels straightened out when the nightly temperatures don't go below 70F. Harvest is underway in Southern California Wine Country and it is thirsty work for all concerned.

That being said, it is still white drinking time at our house and we began last Friday's "research session" on a high note.

It was my husband's birthday and we celebrated with our favorite Champagne house, Pol Roger.
Did you know that Winston Churchill was a big fan of this fine beverage and they named their Prestige Cuvee after him? 

 

Pol Roger Extra Cuvee De Reserve Champagne 2010 $84.99

Wow! The 2000 vintage is just amazing! Fresh and full on the palate, toasted brioche, green apple skins, dried apricots, soft white floral and a hint of ginger root.

We were so enamored that we couldn't even think of food, hence, no pairing.

Music: Almost anything would go well with this, but we listened to a newly opened, 180gm "Dire Straits" and Ian Dury, "New Boots & Panties"

Chapoutier La Petite Ruche 2010  $29.99

100% Marsanne and 100% deliciously intertesting.

Often this varietal is blended with it's Rhone companion Rousanne, but in this bottling it stands alone and proud.
Lush stone fruits, tropical floral and candied citrus rind with marzipan and steely minerals on the finish.

I also appreciated their capsule, made from recycled material!

Music: West, Bruce & Laing " Whatever Turns You On" and Pink Floyd 
"Division Bell"

And so, until next time, pop those corks, spin that vinyl and sip on!

Most everyone I meet thinks that, because one is in the wine industry, we drink copious amounts at all meals (except perhaps, breakfast) and at every opportunity.

I hate to tell you but this is not always the case.

While there are many work related activities that include tasting, the real wine appreciation in our home happens on Friday nights. There’s just something about knowing there will be no alarm clock to bother you then next morning!

This ritual also encompasses two great wine pairing team players: food and music.

So without further ado, I shall give you a brief rundown from this past weekend:

It’s still Summer and the evening was balmy – just screaming out for a refreshing white to start things off.

Domaine Vincent Delaporte Chavignol Sancerre 2009 $19.99

All cool river rock, white peach, lemon zest and minerals. Highly enjoyable.

Paired with some creamy goat cheese.

Music: Sandy Denny and Allmam Brothers “Eat a Peach”.

(Note: All music is in vinyl format- also part of the ritual)

On to the red:

Zuccardi Malbec 2009, Mendoza Argentina $14.99

An inky brute filled with blackberry, boysenberry and cocoa.  The tannins are terrific and this is definitely a keeper.  Charge up the grill and don’t forget to brush your teeth!

Paired with our favorite – “Pizza Tuto” from Spuntino’s, Temecula CA

Music:  Queen (their first LP), The Sensational Alex Harvey Band “Collection”, Zeppelin “Mothership”.

Facebook, Twitter and now this!