March 1, 2003

"Wine is a constant proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." -- Benjamin Franklin

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Please join us this Saturday, March 1st, from the hours of 12-4 PM for an absolutely outstanding and delightful selection of wines chosen to help us all get out of our winter funk.

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First up this week is the anticipated California red, Jest Red-

89 Points, "Wine Enthusiast" November 15, 2002. "Great Deals & Downright Steals." From Belvedere Vineyards, this non-vintage wine cunningly mixes up a sorcerer's brew of odd lots and leftover barrels-"orphans," as winemaker Bob Bertheau describes them. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Sirah, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir. Syrah and Zinfandel are all present and accounted for, drawn from 550 acres in Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Dark, smooth and sweetly scented with violets and blueberries, it is a pretty, juicy bottle of ripe berries and plums. Smooth and succulent, it rolls into a satiny, lip-licking finish.

Jest Red is a multi vintage blend of different red grape varietals.

Appellation: Jest Red has been blended primarily from grapes grown in the Dry Creek Valley, Anderson Valley, Alexander Valley and the Russian River Valley with quite a few other places thrown in just because we liked them

Varietals: Jest Red has been a blend of Syrah, Zinfandel, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Carignane, Tempranillo, Alicante Bouchet and quite a bit of TLC

Alcohol: 13.6% by Volume

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Next up, a refreshing Australian white, Yalumba Viognier-

Throughout its history, Yalumba has been willing to take a risk and back its judgement on a new variety, a new style, or a new direction, without losing sight of traditional strengths. Nowhere is this move evident than in the winery's pioneering work in Australia with the rare and alluring Rhône grape variety, Viognier.

The vine cuttings shown on the Yalumba Viognier label depict the Hill Smith family's ability to think outside the square in the quest for quality. Such risk-taking and daring to make a difference has put Yalumba ahead of the rest in the ever-changing world of wine.

Golden in colour, the Yalumba Viognier 2002 is an enchanting wine an aroma of honeysuckle with hints of spice. The palate is rich, luscious and silky with juicy tropical fruit, citrus and lychee fruit flavours. These exotic flavours are intensified when paired with food - try with lightly spiced Asian dishes such as stir-fry noodles or a green chicken curry.

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Third on the list is an eye-catching Australian red, Fat Croc Shiraz-

"This wine comes from the Riverina region of Australia. There the crocodiles are big and fat just like the wines produced. This wine is flavorful, richly textured and unfolds to reveal ripe black cherry and blackberry flavors. Soft and warm with subtle fruit flavors."

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Last but not least, an Italian white, Gini Soave Classico-

The Gini Estate is an old tradition in the production area of Soave Classico, the vineyards have belonged to the family since 1700. All fermented in stainless steel vats.

Wine Advocate -- "Great value: 87pts... elegant, fresh effort with notes of grapefruit, minerals, citrus, and a hint of almonds."

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