Bacchus & Beery Wine Blog

Jul 282014
 

Denver and Colorado Wineauxs…. Here’s a great chance to drink some great boutique California Wines while supporting two great causes…Don’t miss it!

Blanchard Family Wines and Distant Cellars Wine Release PartyBlanchard Family Wines and Distant Cellars, two of my favorite California wineries with Colorado ties, are hosting their first ever joint wine release party here in Denver. These two family-owned wineries, both located in Northern California, have owners that live and serve here in Colorado.

James Blanchard, from Blanchard Family Wines, serves as an Air Force helicopter pilot while running half of his family winery, while Drew Gaiser from Distant Cellars serves as a local Colorado Firefighter while running the Colorado arm of his family winery.

Blanchard Family Wines and Distant Cellars Wine Release PartyJames and Drew will be hosting a wine release event at the University of Denver’s Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality on August 21st from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Both wineries have significant charitable arms and in addition to pouring several of their top selections, will be pouring wines that support great causes and new release wines never before shared..

Blanchard Family Wines will be pouring Jessi’s Red to benefit the Jessica Redfield Scholarship Foundation, in memory of Jessica Redfield, who was killed in the Aurora theater shootings. Distant Cellars will be pouring their Tribute Red Blend, a wine dedicated to raising funds for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

The wine tasting will be accompanied with amazing small bites from Executive Chef Michel Wahaltere of Dorchester Social Eatery and delectable tastes from Izzybelle Chocolates. Grab a glass of wine and visit exhibits from local artists Christopher Owen Nelson and Todd Perkins.

Tickets are only $15 and include a commemorative logo glass. Registration can be completed at the following link: https://boutiquewinetasting.eventbrite.com/. Wine Club members from either winery can get two free tickets by contacting their respective winery for a discount code.

Jul 082014
 
Calla Lily Winery Ultimate Red Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $80 (S) – Rating 93

Calla Lily CabernetFrom an emerging Napa Valley winery with an experienced hand on the wheel in Cary Gott. An expressive nose of black cherry, blackberry, ripe plum, vanilla and black pepper. Lush on the palate, complete with silky tannins and balanced acidity. Give this youngster at least 30-60 minutes to fully open for flavors of black cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, oaky vanilla and plenty of spice. Intriguing notes of tobacco box on long finish.

Jul 082014
 
Russian River Vineyards Pinot Noir Benedetti Vineyard 2012, Russian River Valley, CA, $55 (S) – Rating 91

Russian River Vineyards Pinot Noir Benedetti Vineyard 2012A gold medal winner at the North of the Gate Wine Competition. Aromas of cherry and strawberry with hints of raspberry and spice. The wine is highlighted by a round mouth-feel, soft tannins and balanced acidity. The palate is treated to flavors of blueberry, cherry, strawberry, vanilla, a little leather and spice with hints of dark chocolate on finish. Buy This Wine

 

Jul 082014
 
Monticello Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2013Monticello Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Napa Valley, CA, $32 (S) – Rating 90

A robust nose of ruby red grapefruit, Meyer lemon, tropicals and bright spice. Bright acidity complimented by soft textures. Meyer lemon, ruby red grapefruit, citrus, spice and green apple flavors abound. Plenty of spice, citrus and tropical notes in the finish. Buy This Wine

 

Jul 082014
 
MacPhail Family Wines Pinot Noir Dutton Ranch 2011, Green Valley of Russian River Valley, CA $49 (S) – Rating 93

MacPhail Family Wines Pinot Noir Dutton Ranch 2011Give this beauty a little time to open up in a decanter and you will be well rewarded. A well-rounded bouquet of dark red fruit, stewed cherries and spice. Medium-bodied with silky tannins and bright acidity which is easily enjoyed solo or as a versatile food pairer. On the palate, notes of  cherry, pomegranate, ripe raspberry and ripe strawberry. Quite spicy on long finish. Buy This Wine