What’s Fresh At Enoteca?

1. April Wine & Beer Club in this Friday!
2. Special Sparkling Event This Thursday April 3rd
   Mountain Dome with Winemaker Erik Manz
3. Belgian Beer Tasting - Wednesday, April 9th
4. Keeping it Sweet - Quady Dessert Wine Tasting - April 16th
5. Upcoming Tasting Events
6. What is Wine & Beer Club?
7. Baby Picture

April Wine & Beer Club is in!

The wine and beer for this month’s club has arrived and will be in your bin on Friday, April 4th! If you’re not a Club Member yet, learn about the Wine & Beer Club?

Wine & Beer Club is rolling out this Friday, and tasting is from 4-7 Friday night. We will be tasting Saturday from 12-7 as well, which is a great time to taste wine to beat the rush. The cost is $10 per flight (3 oz. each of 3 wines), $5 per glass (5 oz. of one wine), and $10 for the Anniversary Club Red, glass pour only.

The lineup for Club and Tasting:

Vintage Club

Rutz French Cuvée Pinot Noir 2005 (France, by way of CA)
A solid nose of black cherry and berry is tinged with notes of tea, spice and clove. Medium bodied and richly textured in the mouth, thiswine brings layered flavors of cola, clove, cedar and chocolate to accompany its earthy black and red fruit flavors. It closes stylishly with a ripe, softly tannic finish. This wine starts in France and is transported to California for finishing!

Honig Sauvignon Blanc 2006 (Napa Valley, California)
Bright and lively, a Loire style Sauvignon Blanc with fresh aromas of ruby grapefruit, mango, papaya, and peach. The vibrant citrus and tropical flavors linger on the finish and the texture is crisp and minerally.
97.6% Sauvignon Blanc and 2.4% Semillon

Reserve Club

Domaine Barons de Rothschild Lafite Château Paradis Casseuil Rouge 2005 (Bordeaux, France)
Intense ruby red color. Red fruit, blackberries and blueberries on the nose. Even more noticeable when aerated, such as by decanting. Forward fruit on the palate, pleasant and smooth; the finish is rich and has persistent fruit.
65% Merlot, 34 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc

Bonny Doon Le Cigar Blanc 2006 (Central Coast, California)
This is a very unique opportunity to taste a White Chateauneuf du Pape style of wine that is a little bit different. Usually Roussanne dominates a blend like this, however in 2006, most of the California Roussanne was botrytised, which is a fungus that renders sweet, so the winemakers leaned on the Grenache Blanc component. This wine is a study in pome fruit, Asian pear and quince, monst notably, with suggestions of honeydew, lime blossom, and lilac. The botrytised fruit adds a honeyed, apricot/peach note.

As a U.S. version of a White Chateauneuf du Pape, it also goes well with the recipe in this newsletter last month, found here: Shrimp, Scallops, White Chateauneuf Du Pape
75.3% Grenache Blanc, 24.7% Roussanne

Premier Club

Buehler Estate Cabernet 2003 (Napa Valley, California)
The aromas hint at black fruit: ripe black cherries and black plums. Enticing barrel qualities of cola and spice complement the fruit aromas. On the palate, the wine shows layers of deeply extracted flavors that only mature hillside vineyards can give. Buehler’s Estate Cabernet is the most age-worthy wine they produce and may be enjoyed anytime over the next 15 years. For those who seek youthful fresh Cabernet fruit aromas and a more structured wine, drink it from now through 2010. If you prefer the less fruity, more developed bottle bouquet aromas and a softer, more velvety wine on the palate, drink it from 2011-2021.

Langtry Genevieve Chardonnay 2006 (Genevieve Vineyard, Guenoc Valley, California)
This estate wine was sourced from our renowned Genevieve Vineyard in Guenoc Valley. It shows a panoply of aromas which are ripe peach, pineapple, banana, and lemon meringue pie, while a subtle thread of oak adds richness and complexity without hiding the fruit. It is lush and opulent, yet well-balanced with a long, spicy finish. This wine pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled salmon and creamy shellfish dishes.
100% Chardonnay

Anniversary Club Red

Krupp Brothers Black Bart Stagecoach Syrah 2005 (Stagecoach Vineyard, Napa Valley, California)
A rich reddish black hue gives way to aromas of violets, boysenberries, vanilla and cinnamon. The palate transitions to currants, dark cherries, ripe plums and black pepper. Well structured with polished, supple, soft tannins and a long, silky fi nish. Great with Pepper seasoned Porterhouse steak, Peking duck, rack of lamb, or fl ourless chocolate cake with fresh blueberries and cream. Enjoy now through 2016. This wine is completely sold out at the winery, we were able to get some bottles for Wine Club before the big rush. 94 Points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
84% Syrah, 10% Petite Sirah, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Viognier

Beer Club

Beer Club members receive 4 bottles of beer this month! Beer Club selections are not open for the tasting event, but a few bottles are available for purchase.

Stone Oaked Arrogant Bastard (San Diego, California)
Stone didn’t release any real tasting notes for this beer, so Sarah and Russell cracked a bottle to prepare this email. The first thing we noticed is that it’s a deep amber color, with a tan frothy head. The nose is a perplexing blend of hoppy pine and malty sweetness. On the palate the distinct Stone hop bite waits until the mid-to-back palate to “hop” out.

Sarah feels this beer comes at the perfect time, when we all are hoping and expecting Spring, but we’re really getting cold winteresque weather.

“I dub the Oaked Arrogant Bastard a late spring fling! With the warm amber tone and light smokiness on the finish, like a winter fireplace meshed with the bright hoppiness on the mid-palate and crisp finish much like the crisp clean air on a clear spring day. Enjoy by the fire or after working in the yard. This beer is all around enjoyable or, like my tires, all-season.” ~ Sarah

7.2% ABV, 12 oz. bottle

Traquair House Ale (Scotland)
Barley wine-style “Scotch ale” produced in a tiny brewery at Traquair, the oldest inhabited house in Scotland. Traquair is a pure-malt ale that can accompany or replace pure-malt whiskey. The original 18th century recipe was discovered by Peter Maxwell Stuart, 20th Laird of Traquair, in the mid 1960’s. Traquair was brewing a famous strong ale when Mary Queen of Scots visited in 1566. For 200 years the brewery remained idle until restored in 1965 by the 20th Laird of Traquair.

Deep reddish-golden in color; full, velvet-like body; medium dry and powerful, with an earthy hint of peat character.

Serve with pâté de foie gras and other rich appetizers. Good to soak a Stilton in or to serve with Stilton or other blue cheese. Can accompany fruit and fruit tarts or as a morning pick-me-up with coffee and brunch. Excellent with fruit and cheese or as a winter warmer. Enjoy with a fine cigar. Serve in brandy snifter.

House Ale, Gold Medal: 2005, 2004, 2003, 2000 World Beer Championships; Platinum Medal & World Champion Scotch Ale—1996 & 1997 World Beer Championships “World classic.” —Michael Jackson.
11.2 oz. bottle

Westmalle Triple (Belgium)
Bottle-conditioned Dubbel and Tripel Trappist Ales brewed by the Abbey of Westmalle, one of only seven Trappist breweries in the world. The monastery is located in the village of West Malle, Province of Antwerp, Belgium, and was founded in 1794. Both the Dubbel and the Tripel are considered by many tasters as the benchmarks for the style. Westmalle Dubbel was first brewed for consumption within the Abbey around 1836; Westmalle Tripel was introduced in 1934. We’re still working on bringing in the Dubbel, but here’s the Triple!

Glowing orange-gold color, herbal aroma, and complex flavors that meld rich malt sweetness, warmth, hops, and powerful drinkability.

As an aperitif with cheese or assorted hors d’ oeuvres. Try with rich main courses or enjoy after dinner with fresh fruits and cheese. Westmalle Tripel is excellent with fresh steamed asparagus! Serve in the traditional Trappist goblet at 45-50 deg. F.

“World Classic,” Michael Jackson, Gold Medal, 2004, World Beer Championships
11.2 oz. bottle

Rochefort 8 “Green Cap” (Belgium)
The Abbey of St-Remy, in the southern part of Belgium, was founded in 1230, and the monks began to brew beer sometime around 1595. The beautiful small brewery in the abbey, Rochefort Trappistes, is one of only seven Trappist breweries in the world and makes full-bodied, deeply flavored dark ales. They are bottle-conditioned and among the world’s most highly-respected beverages.

Deep brown color; the flavor is vigorous and complex, with firm body to support the strength. The aroma has elusive notes of fresh fruit, spice, leather, and figs. Great with full-flavored dishes like pate, duck, or wild game; shows well with strong-flavored cheeses. Also wonderful alone as an aperitif. Serve in traditional Trappist stemmed goblet. Gold Medal—World Beer Championships 2004, 2006.
11.2 oz. bottle

Also look for Rochefort 6 “Red Cap” at Enoteca, and several other Stone brews.

Mountain Dome Champagne Tasting Event
With Winemaker Erik Manz

Mountain Dome Champagne Tasting Thursday, April 3rd Beginning at 6 p.m. Taste 4-5 wines Only $15 per person

In 1984 the Manz family started Mountain Dome in the kitchen of their geodesic dome home. After spending a few years developing the desired style of sparkling wine, the family decided the 1988 vintage would be the first commercial release. A friend suggested that the winery, built on a snowy, tree covered mountain top, reminded him of a gnome village and created the Gnome label for Mountain Dome’s Non-Vintage. Mountain Dome has grown from a family obsession into an award winning winery, producing more than 3,000 cases a year. Mountain Dome Winery is producing the highest quality sparkling wine. Washington State’s climate produces excellent fruit with the acidity needed to hold up to the bubbles of fine sparkling wine. Lengthy bottle aging while the wine undergoes secondary fermentation creates the tiny bubbles and complexity that Mountain Dome is proud of. Erik Manz will be on hand to share his excellent wines. The event will start at 6 p.m. and will feature a handful of Mountain Dome’s great selections. Email us at service@corkjoy.com to buy tickets in advance, or call 208-457-9885.

Belgian Beer Tasting with Bill Hemmen

April Beer Tasting Wednesday, April 9th Beginning at 6 p.m. Taste 4-5 or so beers Only $10 per person

The April Beer Tasting is going to be great! Enoteca is hosting Bill Hemmen from who represents a number of brands, and will be pouring a selection of Belgian and Belgian-style beers. We’re going to pick a lineup from the beers he represents to show starting at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9th. Tickets to attend are $10, paid in advance. Attendees will receive a beer glass and most importantly, learn about, and taste, more great beer! Some of the beers include the excellent North Coast offering, Brother Thelonious, and the exquisite and exclusive Malheur Dark Brut, a 12% ABV Champagne style dark beer made in the Champagne method and aged on American oak barrels toasted specifically for this beer. Email us at service@corkjoy.com to reserve space, or call 208-457-9885. To be made aware of future beer tasting events, join the email list at www.corkjoy.com

Keeping it Sweet - Quady Dessert Wine Tasting - April 16th

Andy Quady, blessed with a wicked sense of humor, founded his winery in Madera, in the central San Joaquin Valley, to make classic dessert wines. Included in his portfolio are splendid Muscat-based wines and port-style wines. But because it’s not legal to call the latter by the name of the similar wine from Portugal [Port], Quady renamed his Starboard. His Muscat wines include a delightful Orange Muscat called Essensia, a black Muscat called Elysium, and a low-alcohol Orange Muscat, called Electra. For the newest wine, Deviation, pictured, Quady said he thought it would be fun to make a “love potion” dessert wine, “so we infused Damiana and Scented Geranium into our Essensia Orange Muscat dessert wine.” The damiana is a plant with a pleasant herbal character “reputed to have aphrodisiac properties,” though the wine isn’t advertised as an actual love potion. Quady added that scented geranium “is said to be used in witchcraft where practitioners supposedly employ its hauntingly seductive aroma in love potions.” Dustin Lewis will be on hand to share these unique sweet dessert wines. They make good cocktails, and blending is encouraged. The event will start at 6 p.m. and will feature a handful of Quady’s excellent sweet dessert wine. Email us at service@corkjoy.com to buy tickets in advance, or call 208-457-9885.

Quady Winery Sweet Dessert Wine Tasting Thursday, April 16th Beginning at 6 p.m. Taste 4-5 wines Only $15 per person

Tasting Events Coming Soon

Mark your calendars; Enoteca has a great lineup for the next few weeks. Join us for these excellent tasting events! More details will be available in this newsletter, as well as any changes that might come up.

Thursday, April 3rd - 6 pm
Mountain Dome Winery Champagne Tasting with Winemaker Erik Manz. Come meet the winemaker and enjoy a great assortment of hand-made Champagnes using traditional French methods. $15 per person, buy tickets in advance by calling 208-457-9885 or emailing us at service@corkjoy.com

Friday, April 4th - 4-7 pm
Taste of Club! April Wine & Beer of the Month Club! Club tasting event, taste all the wine club wines! This is a great opportunity to see what the Club is all about, and to see what others are getting in their bins. We will taste these wines on Saturday, April 5th as well, from 12-7.

Wednesday, April 9th - 6 pm
Beer Tasting! Enoteca will be hosting Bill Hemmen as he pours a lineup of excellent beer. Only $10 per person, reservations by calling 208-457-9885.

Friday, April 11th - 4-7 pm
Milbrandt Wine Tasting with Dustin Lewis of Eagle Marketing. Did you enjoy the Milbrandt Merlot, the Vintage Red Wine Club selection from March? Try more wines from this exciting new winery in Washington State. We will taste these wines on Saturday, April 12th as well, from 12-7.

Thursday, April 16th - 6 pm
Quady Winery, Keeping it Sweet. Spend the day after Tax Day to taste a great line up of sweet dessert style wines, some of them fortified, from Quady Winery. Dustin Lewis from Eagle Marketing will be on hand to share more information and answer questions.

You can keep yourself in the loop on Enoteca events! Subscribe to the Enoteca Google Calendar to keep up-to-date on the latest happenings!

Baby With Dog Bones

Thank you to Susan, Bin #181, who handmade this amazing sweater with cute dog-bone buttons! He’s trying to grow out of it too fast!

Salute’

Russell, Sarah, and Roger

Enoteca - Fine Wine & Beer
208-457-9885
service@corkjoy.com

Enoteca is open:
Tuesday-Saturday: 11-7


Directions, hours, and more about Enoteca: www.corkjoy.com

We’re always looking for feedback! If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to let us know. Did you like a certain wine or beer? We’re here to serve you so let us know how we can help: service@corkjoy.com