Wine Tellar

Love Me or 'Lyeth' Me

Posted Tuesday, June 24, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Oscar Wilde once said:

"For there is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about.

And that is not being talked about."

I know exactly what he was referring to when he wrote such words of wisdom,

The Lyeth Meritage Wine, 2005 vintage.

I was introduced to this diamond in the rough many years ago. But, sadly, like my power, I let both of them go for "a man." And, like the 'Victim" I had let myself become, I soon found both my bed and my cellar sadly empty and void of anything titillating.

So, in my quest to fill both of my voids, simultaneously, I traveled southward to the Island of Lost Men, aka, French Lick. Where, I knew, I could swing my Burberry purse and knock over five losers but, hey, I needed my cardio. So, I swung away until I lost all feeling in my right arm and then I sighed. Where had all the great guys gone? I felt like I was at the happy hour of the Lost Lick of Men.

So, in an attempt to find my 'Top of the Mountain' experience, I sauntered over to the bar to contemplate what was missing, missing, missing in my life.

Then,I remembered, I was just high on all the testosterone and what I really needed to know was......where had all the good WINE in my life gone?

I politely asked for the Wine List, thinking maybe the game wasn't over, just half time, when, what to my wandering eye should appear, and by the glass no less, but the Lyeth Meritage, 2005!! My hope, my heart and my palate were once again alive and teetering on the precipice of excitement. Who needed love when there was Lyeth?

Upon first taste, the Lyeth Meritage came alive with lovely ripe fruit, aromas of full plums, and lingering berries. The color was dark, inviting, and ruby red. This 2005 'Meritage' (pronounced like heritage) is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Awarded a "Best Value" by Wine News in 2007, and at $17.89 a bottle, this silky, well-balanced wine drinks like a wine double its price. And, upon delivery of my tab, I was pleased to find that the bank was not yet broken although my $100 dollar bill would soon be.

I left the next morning reinvigorated from the past evenings relationship realizations and wine revelations.

Realizations and revelations being:

Who needed a man when an equally great wine awaited me around every corner bar.

l wanted to be with a guy who wanted to be with me. I've had enough relationship drama for one lifetime.

And, when the marriage of one true wine unites with one lonely soul, making the two become one, we realize that we don't need drama to make love work (or a man for that matter), we just need a reason to 'Lyeth' each other more so we can love each other less.

See you on Thursday at Greenfield Liquors.

The Wine Tellar

A

"Sweet Serenity" With Extras

Posted Monday, June 23, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

After my rant last week about Socialism and my detest for all things French (except my Lover in the form of some new wine we just got in, Tres Bien), it was a VERY GOOD thing that, at Greenfield Liquors, we opened a bottle of wine from California, at our wine tasting, labeled, quite simply, and quite adequately.........'SERENITY'!

Now I don't know about you, but I REALLY needed a HUGE dose of Serenity right about then to quell my disgust for ignorance.

I needed it almost as much as the young acolyte who asked his Guru how to achieve enlightenment.

The Guru responds by shoving the young acolyte's head under water for two or three minutes. Then, pulling him out saying:

"When you want enlightenment as much as you want air, you'll get it."

I wanted Serenity just as badly as the acolyte wanted air and thanks to the Wine Gods, Serenity came along just as I was ready to pray for it.

There I was, at Thursday's wine tasting and before I could say, "penitent woman" Serenity arrived....and, I was even dressed for the occasion......and of all things, did you know that Serenity actually comes in a handy, dandy bottle with an itty bitty cork, just waiting to be popped. Thank you Wine Gods!!!

Serenity and I had only one thing keeping us apart and it came in the form of a big glass bottle which taunted me with a beautiful, blissful, serene label and no wine or 'Serenity'. She seemed to be calling to me like church bells peeling through the air on a Sunday morning ringing...."calling all worshipers, calling all worshipers".

So, humbly I came to the alter, wine opener in hand, to find, at last, my sweet 'Serenity'!

The Brassfield Estate Winery of California is responsible for the answer to my prayers. This proprietary blend of Sauvignon Blanc (63%), Pinot Grigio (28%), Gewurztraminer (6%), and Semillon (3%), was full of peaches, and apples, like a big fruit cocktail....just not as thick The wine was smooth, soft and round with just a touch of sweetness presenting itself at the finish with a hint of mandarin orange left lingering on the tongue. The Wine Gods are sooooo good to me!!!

And, before a Hallelujah left my lips, my eyes caught sight of the price. And, although the price did not leave me praying for blindness, it did leave me empty and asking the Wine Gods.... WHY, WHY, WHY Wine Gods WHY? Why does this 'Sweet Serenity' have to set me back $15.99.

But, when the Wine Gods gently reminded me of all their kindness and generosity over the years. (there have been a few years that we have been worshipping together.) I relented, repented, confessed, and purchased.

So, this I pray....... I will try to think of any and all future purchases of Brassfield Estates 'Serenity' as an offering. To be offered up to thank the Wine Gods for delivering this wonderful blend to my palate, my cellar and to my wine tasting.

But, I'm only tithing 10% of my 'Serenity' offering to the cause. The rest will be donated to an even worthier cause......or in lay mans terms, ME!!!! See you Thursday.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

Pepieux "Le Pew"

Posted Monday, June 16, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Today I'm feeling restless so I'm hoping someone out there can talk me down off of the ledge.

The world is upside down. France is moving away from Socialism just in time for America to embrace it..... and actually think it will work. (as if it hasn't been tried before)..... and, I actually gave up on the French back in 2003 and said "no" to buying any more French wine about the time they said "non" to the U.S. in regards to Iraq.

Now, after all these years, I find myself chatting and tasting a wonderful little red blend that the world has been waiting for with breath that is baited when..... Sacre' Bleu, I discover that my little piece of heaven in a wine glass is singing 'Devil May Care' in my ear, and pulling me over to the dark side. As, before me appear, on the label of my new found Lover, four short determinate words; 'Domaine Massamier La Mignarde'.

I find myself once again up on the ledge, ready to jump, wondering not only how could my Lover do this to me but..... if opposites really do attract.... for exactly how long does the attraction last before...?

Image for Domaine Massamier La Mignarde Cuvée de Oliviers Coteaux de Peyriac VDP Rosé 2006

I find myself in one big wine quandry. Me and 'Cuvee des Oliviers' have nothing in common other than I love it and from the taste of it, it likes me too.... as it goes down very easily.....in a wine sort of way.

My reasonable side wants to say; "I love it, it's my thing, let it go" but my patriotic side wants to say; "You French enjoy French wine, well, my friends enjoy ALL wine." Thank you very much!!!

With each each sip, my new French Lover clouds my better judgment, takes me by the hand, assures me that questions are romantic, and then, before I can say "mais non", my Lover and I end up drinking and walking for a couple of blocks (not really), nodding in agreement and wondering what all the fuss is about anyway.

Why can't we all just get along?

Cuvee' de Oliviers, from the Venes Family in the Languedoc-Roussillion region of France, is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), Carignan (30%), Cinsault (20%), Grenache(10%), and Syrah (10%). The palate is full of cherries, ripe fruit and soft tannins. The finish is suitable, (as in a true lovers fashion), as it was never meant to hang around for long, just long enough to keep you longing for more. And, at $11.39 a bottle, I've got the sweetest hang-over......see you next Thursday.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

Gettin' "Winey" With It

Posted Wednesday, June 11, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

It may not have ever come to your attention (because you're sitting at home instead of out drinking with me) but every Thursday, at our weekly wine tasting, compliments of Greenfield Liquors, I have a few opinions. Some I express, others I keep to myself. But, my one universal opinion - one that only a few of my devoted groupies comprehend - is that Red Wine can never be big enough, bold enough, rich enough or dry enough.

In other words, I am like the little boy who cried wolf only I cry:

"I LOVE RED WINE"

I have yet to open up a bottle of red wine at the tastings that I haven't absolutely adored. True, some I like better than others but I'm an 'equal opportunity adorer" and Langmeil's, "Three Gardens" blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvedre was opened, sipped and yes, adored!!

"Three Gardens" is 48% Shiraz, 42% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre and 100% delicious. This is a distinct Barossa style wine from Australia with good balance, nice fruit, and a very nice price that all came together on Thursday. The overall flavors began with ripe cherries and blackberries and finished with maybe a hint of clove or a touch of cinnamon....you be the judge.

The palate on this wine was kind of like having 3 therapists: The front mouth feel is the therapist you see because you want to be coddled, the mid mouth feel is the therapist you see when you need to be loved and the final finish is the therapist you see when you just want to look at a beautiful man/woman therapist....you know, like a beautiful work of art or in this case, a beautiful finish to a lovely red wine.

So, I guess at the end of the day, what I'm trying to say is that this Aussie blend could help solve any head case. (Well, if I had to be honest, most wine can do that without the self indulgences that therapy oft times brings us too.... or the price tag,I mean, if we're to be honest) Or, at the very least, it could have you leaving your therapist's office crying:

"I have figured out that what I hate in life.....I love in wine."

It's a start anyway. And, if you can't afford a therapist, I've heard there's a group therapy session held at your local liquor store (every Thursday to be exact). You don't have to be a member to join. All you have to do is show up.

I've heard they open every session with:

"Hi, my name is Amanda and I.........LOVE RED WINE."

See you at "Group!"

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

Nobody Puts "Semi" in a Corner

Posted Friday, June 6, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

If one wants to pet a creature in its natural habitat, one might have to travel as far as a Zoo or even my back yard. If one wants to taste wine in its natural habitat, one need only bring a glass to Thursday's wine tastings at Greenfield Liquors. Here, every Thursday, I present wine along with a little humor and enough self confidence to make people like Ross Perot want to take another run for President.

This past Thursday we poured a little known varietal to the Troubadours of Wine in Greenfield but this true work horse of a grape, from the Kaesler Family of wines in the Barossa valley of Australia, was a delight to open, taste, swallow and enjoy...and all in a matter of minutes.

Now, the Kaesler wine family is chalk full of many varietals, and, although Semillon is one of their shining stars, it's not what I would call one of those soul mate kind of wines.

By a soul mate wine I mean that there's only one of it out there and if you miss it, another may not come along...And, you'll be lonely and thirsty for a very long time.

No, Semillon is like the nice guy you know is out there, the one you just haven't met yet but when you do, it will be nice and perfect in all it's nice splendor.

Semillon is a moderately well-known grape varietal. It might mean more to you if you were well versed in wine, have tasted the wines from Sauternes, or are just pathetic enough to buy a book entitled, "The Encyclopedia of Grapes," which, have no fear, I've managed to hit 2 out of 3 of those bullet points for you so we are well on our way to enjoying Semillon without need of a passport.

This is a classic dry white wine. At first glance, the wine looks delectable thanks to the lovely golden color "chill-fully" displayed in the bottle. The nose is relatively quiet, smelling mostly.....well, dry to be perfectly honest. The initial hint of apple can be embraced upon the wines first run down your throat. Limes and even a fresh floral note can be found ensconced in the dry end to yet another "Good" classic summer white wine.

So, while you are out there looking for your soul mate, a nice guy or just love in general to come along, distract yourself with Semillon......because as distractions go, it's easy on the palate, it's relatively easy on the wallet, and it will never kill the relationship by asking too many questions.

See you Thursday

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

Blanc-ity, Blanc, Blanc

Posted Tuesday, June 3, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Ken Forrester Wines

Here I am again, typing, thinking, and wondering what delightful little wine insights I can instill on my ever (non) present fellow bloggers. When suddenly, like impossible standards of beauty that men think are possible, I realize that is impossible for me to describe to you the beautiful, supple virtues of an old world grape known simply as "Chenin Blanc" without losing you to dinner, beer, or Whitehouse.com.

But, like all Catch 45's,(my soon to be age in dog years) I need you to accept the fact that not all wine is beautiful in name but please don't judge Chenin Blanc by its name as "that which we call a rose, by any other name would still smell as sweet.

So, Chenin Blanc, by any other name would still retain that dear perfection..."

Because, what lies between this generic grape name, this unknown label, and the glass holding it all in, is both sinner and saint all wrapped up in one ideal accompaniment wine that retails for under $10.00. Do I have your attention yet?

Ken Forrester, South African wine oenophile and self proclaimed restaurateur, has masterfully decided to not separate what he could do versus what he should do. He simply decided to do it all. And, with the release of his 2007 Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, wine consumers all over the world are all the better for it.

The wine opens up like a new relationship in it's early stages..... you know, when the girl looks at the boy and says, "What's all this?" and the boy responds, "It's too soon to tell." my nose and my mouth were expressing the same sentiment. The immediate vanilla and oak flavors came floating out, like a genii in a bottle, but after one teeny, tiny sip, the full fruit flavors of dried apricots, pineapple and the ever delectable honey hint, presented themselves like a single girl waiting for the perfect male; full bodied and full ripe.

And, again, did I mention this wine retails for under $10.00?

I'm truly sorry if you missed us this past Thursday because true to form, we SOLD OUT of this wine as well. Our clientele has become quite sophisticated in their week day and weekend wine choices. And, I must say, that their sophistication along with my whimsical ability to pick wine have only improved with time, unlike Hilary Clinton.....my bad, a little political rhetoric for you laughter and serious consideration.

So, until next Thursday where the wine, the women and the wit will surely be overflowing, be safe in Tornado alley and come drink with me.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

"Huber"licious

Posted Tuesday, June 3, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

At last weeks wine tasting at Greenfield Liquors, (which sits on the corner of right now and every-bodies here), we sipped on the newest addition to the fine wines currently gracing our shelves..."Huber" Gruner Veltliner. And, for the sake of our oenophiles holding up in Camby, we'll play a little "hooked-on-phonics" a little "hooked-on-German" and a little "hooked-on-lack-o-knowledge" of this little known Austrian grape otherwise known as Gruner Veltliner.

Now here's where I must come clean to my devoted followers--I have NEVER heard of Gruner Veltliner....as a grape, as a wine, or even as a man. So, imagine my surprise, when after exhausting research (Google Search: Gruner Veltliner) this pleasing little white beauty came to life right beside my blinking cursor.

I am pleased to report that Gruner Veltliner is Austrian by birth and "Huber" by magic. The "Huber" family of Austria has been making magic for over 9 generations and the newest protege' of the family,coming in at a tender 23 years of age, young Markus Huber has certainly embraced his ancestry.

The wine opens up to pretty much.....well... nothing. The nose is dull and noncommittal but the finish brings this mystical wine into the realms of "Huberlicious" and all with a simple swallow. The green apples and fruit are instantly noticeable with just a hint of honey. These are quickly followed by the citrus flavors of lemon, lime, and the always popular non-citrus peach. This Huber wine is rich, and full of mineral tones that will please any palate in Greenfield.......or even Camby for that matter.

We successfully SOLD OUT of Huber's wine on Thursday but more should be arriving soon and just in time for the humid, hot, sticky, dog days of Indiana summers. So, while your friends are hanging around, drinking beer, crunching on pork rinds, and letting it all hang out, hang over......hang ten (pounds around their guts and test the bounds of buttons everywhere) maintain your fabulousness and your "Huberliciousness" by hanging out with Huber.... being served at a front porch near you.

Weingut Huber Hugo Gruner Veltliner 2006

See you Thursday

Until

The Wine Tellar,

A

Writers Block

Posted Monday, May 19, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

I am sitting here staring at a blinking cursor, noting the title of this erroneous blog and realizing that along with the "Writers Block" wine that I am supposed to be raving about, here in black and white font, I, too, seem to be suffering from a similar case of self inflicted Writers Block!!

Dear readers, my heart and head are quite simply out to lunch. But, in the undeniable quest to keep my 'groupies' up to date on what the "wine lady" is pouring these days....I will press on, typing out a game of 'Writing Russian Roulette' for the sake of my 'NGS's" and faithful wineaholics. Should I fail, please remember: Computers crash, relationships fall apart and people (non-writing people) get writers block.

In a world full of unspecial wine, Jed Steele has brought to the table, a very special wine, otherwise known as the "Writer's Block Syrah!"

I was first introduced to this beauty in 2006 while visiting a 'Mehuga' wine store in South Carolina (which is a REALLY big place for those of you Fortville---in fact this place is about the size of Fortville) where the "wine expert" directed me and my friend to this wine declaring all the while: "It's the best wine I've ever tasted."

So, like the little lemmings we are, we purchased a bottle or 4, headed back to our campsite...I mean, Hampton Inn and proceeded to declare, out loud, to each other, "This is the best wine we've ever tasted."

The wine opens up to the nose so subtly and simply that with first sip, your mind almost plays tricks with your tongue. The aromas of black berry and coffee are instantly noticeable but, with first sip, the flavors of fresh plum, currents and possibly even a little anise, pervade the palate. And, upon the departure of the "Writer's Block Syrah" from your tongue, the medium finish leaves a little hint of spice, sort of like a 'wine tease' to make you pine for more.

Jed Steele has been making wines for over 5 decades! He was the former winemaker for Kendall Jackson wines and bottles 'special' wines under the Steele label, Writer's Block label, Stymie label, and the Shooting Star label. He owns a vineyard in Calistoga, CA, and sources most of his grapes from northern CA growers.

At Greenfield Liquors, we currently carry the Writer's Block (Syrah), Stymie (Syrah and Merlot) and a Steele Cabernet Franc (one of my fave's). We are a veritable buffet of Steele wines. Just belly on up to the bar, choose your favorite poison from Steele and I assure you, you won't be disappointed.

In closing,( I know, Thank God right), join me on Thursday where two little words,

WINE TASTING, becomes ONE BIG CONCEPT!

Until,

The Wine Tellar

A

The Cheese Stands Alone

Posted Monday, May 19, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Here we are, back to Chardonnay and all things wine.

Here I am back to Chardonnay and all I can do is whine.

But, that's just me which is why,'the cheese stands alone'.

To most of my trusty tasters out there, you LIKE Chardonnay. You like it oakey, you like it unoaked, you even like it dry, you like it slightly sweet.....(I feel a Dr. Seuss poem coming on) but all in all, even my 'NGS' types like Chardonnay and this past Thursday was no exception.

On pour was a fine Chardonnay out of the Carneros hillsides in sunny California otherwise known as Bouchaine Chardonnay!

The wine itself was not offensive. (not like, let's say, the first time you step off the bus in New York!) Aged in both oak and stainless steel, this was a drinkable Chardonnay but, it's kind of like all Chardonnays to me, they all taste pretty much the same. It's like saying you want New York and you get Same York!

Save me a seat on the return bus and pour me a dry summer Rose' or a steely Chenin Blanc. ("anything but Chardonnay" she said, as the whining continued)

But, unlike bad screen plays and first novels, Bouchaine Winery is committed to producing only top of the line Bordeaux style wines which includes Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in their top rated selections.

The wine itself is a beautiful straw gold color. The nose is fresh with only the slightest hint of oak. The palate is full of fruit with bright apples making an appearance followed by some nice acidity and a nice long finish.

So, like an amicable finish to an Ebert movie review, the Bouchaine Chardonnay got "thumbs up" all night long. However, it boasts one pricey.......price. The bottle retails for $26.99 and, I don't want to be the one to say it, but, for $26.99 I want a bottle of wine and a new Zodiac sign to accompany it. Am I asking too much?

Well, here we are at diatribes bitter end.....and, all I've done is whine.....and yes, I'd like some cheese to go with my whine if you don't mind.

So until we chat again, may we begin again on Thursday to brave the wilderness of wine, whine, and maybe even some cheese.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

The Inimitable

Posted Wednesday, May 14, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

I feel like Molier today!

Molier once said: "Writing is like Prostitution....

First you do it for love,

Then you do it for a few friends,

And finally you do it for money."

I feel that way about wine! I drink it out of love, I serve it to a few friends, and now I pour it for money. Oh, and I also get to write about it.....lucky me.....but, lest drinking and writing make Jane a dull girl....let us proceed.

Thursday brought us the somewhat pricey version of the number one imported varietal in America, Pinot Grigio, and by any other name known as Santa Margherita, otherwise known as the grape of housewives and 'newbie girlie sorority' wine tasters everywhere.

And, in my quest to become a bonafide member of the 'newbie girlie sorority' I want all of my NGS girls to know that I REALLY like this wine. Price point aside, it should stand beside "Old Faithful" in Yellowstone Park because vintage to vintage, (and price hike to price hike) it never disappoints and it always delivers exactly what you would expect.....OUTSTANDING TASTE!

What a concept! Or, in my world, what we refer to as a BFO!!

Pinot Grigio is the signature grape of Italy (okay, okay and in New World perspectives,OR and CA). The best Pinot Grigio hales from Friuli, Italy but a clever oenologist decided to pluck the best grapes from Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy, delete leaving the "must" on the skins, and VOILA... instant white wine where only pink existed before.

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio is a dry white wine, which may surprise my NGS's who may be sipping on a sweeter version of Pinot Grigio. The nose is subtle with pleasant golden apples at first sniff. The palate is clean, crisp, fragrant, yet elegant and harmonious. There is a slight sweetness (clap not my NGS's) that combines nicely with a full, tangy, long finish that has made this wine the benchmark of Pinot Grigios everywhere.

The only inhibitor, to me, at least, with this wine, is its price tag. At a whopping $24.99, I am somewhat hesitant to grab this wine for everyday drinking. But, if the 'family' is coming over, I might skip the low cost, low quality wines and head straight for "old faithful".....hey, nothing but the best for my family......okay, sometimes I do go for the low quality, high cost wines...I'm just saying..... labels can impress some people......I wonder if Calvin Klein makes wine these days?

In conclusion, see you on Thursday where thirsty people congregate, en masse, at Greenfield Liquors, or State Street Exchange, or the only place in town where you can taste wine while standing in line to buy your COLD beer.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

All In The Family

Posted Wednesday, May 14, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Pas'sion - (n) extreme, compelling emotion; intense emotional drive or excitement.

(b) enthusiasm or fondness (c) strong love or affection

Welcome once again as we pontificate, ponder, and present the possibilities of "The Patriota" to your passionate palate!!

"The Patriota", a product of Argentina and the passion of Ernesto Catena were on 'pour' at last Thursday's wine tasting at State Street Liquors.

Ernesto Catena is the son of Nicolas Catena who is otherwise known as "The Robert Mondavi of Argentina!" Suffice it to say that Ernesto comes from some pretty good stock and his premier wine speaks volumes to his heritage and skill as a wine maker.

The "Patriota" Tikal is 60% Bonarda and 40% Malbec, both signature grapes of Argentina.

"The Patriota" Tikal is a tribute to these two core grapes of Argentina's heritage as both grapes have been instrumental in Argentina's great winemaking traditions.

And now that people can actually identify Argentina on a map, this country, many moons south of the equator, (just a place for the public school educated to start looking) is actually becoming a formidable wine making contender in the fight for shelf space at fine liquor establishments everywhere.

At first approach, I was expecting a massive, powerful wine, as the bottle alone has to weigh 3 lbs. soaking wet.....and, maybe even dry, I'll let you know......but, true to Malbec's characteristics, think Merlot, the wine offered up fragrant bouquets of black cherry, raspberry, and chocolate. After one swallow, think a whole bowl of mixed ripe berries, the luscious layers of blueberry, raspberry, cherry/berry, and just a hint of cocoa wrapped themselves around my tongue and refused to diffuse even as I tried to talk and pour (no easy feat for this blond with a brunette past).

But, my true hair color aside, Wine Aficionados from around the world love this wine. At just under $25, this highly rated winner, '90' points from Robert Parker and '91' points from the Wine Enthusiast, will quickly become the love of your wine life. A love that you simply cannot fathom drinking -I mean- being without .... unless you're Lilly Tomlin.

Lilly Tomlin once said: "If love is the answer, could you rephrase the question?"

Yes Lilly, I can!

The question is:

"What can produce passion at first sight?"

The answer quickly becomes:

"Why, "The Patriota", of course."

See you Thursday!!

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

On The "Ridge" of Greatness

Posted Thursday, May 8, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Good times and good weather are truly upon us when the shelves are once again flush with the white wines of summer. This year is no exception.

Ann Limbergh once said: "I want the windows open all the time."

I concur, but along with the windows being open, I also want a bathtub full of Pine Ridge's Chenin Blanc wine to soak my tired mind in after "pining" over this blog for the benefit of a few good Libertines (you know who you are).

Every year, I refuse to buy this wine until the weather becomes, as I like to call it, "Front Porch Sitting Weather". Why? Simply put, this wine is so refreshing and tasty that, like that first day of spring, it overwhelms the senses, forcing one to stop, take a deep breath in, and then thank God to be alive..... with a nose and two lips that work to taste this heavenly nectar.

The 2007 vintage is 80% Chenin Blanc with 20% Viognier added to soften this old/new world grape.

Chenin Blanc is an old/new world grape as it has been around since the early 9th century. And, although the lovely wantons of France abandoned Chenin Blanc in the early 1970's, our comrades in California (and South Africa) quickly embraced Chenin for its ability to produce a decent yield of inexpensive wines (otherwise known as cheap wine) where it thrives beautifully today.

The Pine Ridge version of Nirvana in a bottle opens up to the nose with a floral sweetness. A long deep breath and one can immediately smell the pears and melons, the grapefruit and the lime. A few long drinks later and one can decipher between the citrus and the pear and, hopefully, even taste the sweet floral eccentricities of the Viognier.

The slightly off-dry finish is so clean and crisp that I am apt to be transported back to a time and place where crisp, white, freshly cleaned bed sheets hang on lines in rural backyards, flapping carelessly in the warm, summer wind, wanting for nothing more than the soft, gentle touch of Mother Nature.

So now, with your windows open all the time and your palate craving the taste of spring, deny yourself no longer, present yourself and your credit card to Greenfield Liquors, and feel Mother Nature the way she was meant to be felt......thru a glass in the hand and a butt on the front porch.

Until

A

The wine Tellar

Gott Wine?

Posted Thursday, May 8, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Here we are again, another week, another wine to taste. The burdens I bear for my fellow oenophiles. But, I do it without pause or regret...well, maybe a little pause in between sips and chatter.

This past week, we were well on our way to wine Nirvana with the opening and sipping of the 2006 Zinfandel from Joel Gott Winery of California.

This vintage is actually 96% Zinfandel, 3% Petite Sirah and 1% Alicante Bouchet. I mean, after all, what would Zinfandel be without a little Bouchet. A far less bottle of wine from my perspective....of course, let us not forget that my perspective illuminates from Greenfield, Indiana. But, I digress.

This wines heralds from vines located in Napa, Sonoma, Lodi and Amador. The 3 Musketeers of wine country for growing Zinfandel. Each distinctive vineyard lending its unique soil and environment to create and fuel this power house of a wine.

Admittingly, at first sip, the 14.5% alcohol overwhelmed my palette which became like a shrinking violet and refused to taste even a hint of the grape. But, after a bit of time had transpired, magically, as with most good wines, the alcohol settled down, the flavors began to emerge and like a flower in the spring this mighty Zin opened up and put its true flavors on display.

The classic plum, and ripe berries were instantly succulent and the cherry and spicy nuances added to a long, sweet, and juicy finish. The tannins were intense and lively but with structure, and by that I mean, they lasted firmly from first sip to last swallow.

The $16.59 price tag on this wine is quite reasonable. One might have to actually go to a fine dining establishment to acquire a wine of this caliber. So, before you go out on the town, go get "Gott" at Greenfield Liquors.

And, while you're at it, join us every Thursday from 5:00-8:00 pm. as we dutifully drink, converse, drink, converse....you get the idea.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

Bush Vines are Divine

Posted Friday, April 18, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

"How Delightful to talk about ideas, especially with someone

laboring in the same vineyard."

Annie Dillard

And, right back to the vineyards of Australia, Yalumba Winery, and my musings, of course.

We ventured into the world of Grenache with the Yalulmba Barossa 2006 Bush Vine Grenache. This delightful easy-drinking wine was created from 70 year old Barossa vines. It just happens to be one of my personal favorites as it is what I like to call a "no-brainer." Grenache of this caliber is not fussy. You don't have to dissect it to enjoy it and you don't have to spend a ton of money to acquire it.

Grenache is a varietal all its own and is responsible for the beautiful wines of the Southern Rhone in France, most notably Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Also, Garnacha is a principle grape grown and produced in Rioja Spain but a rose by any other name is still ......Grenache. And, Yalumba's Grenache is like a subtle fruit bomb in the mouth. The wine is full of ripe plums, cloves and sweet berry, cherry flavors. It is full and soft and seamless to the end with juicy tannins.

Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate gave this lovely an "87" out of a 100 scale. Pretty good for a wine that retails for $18.99 and is consistent from vintage to vintage.

So, the next time you visit us at State Street Exchange, remember that the wine tastings are every Thursday from 5:00-8:00 pm. We open a white, a red and a sweet wine for the chicks... (or rather a sweet wine for the men to take home to their chicks, after some persistent prodding on my part) And that the above picture is not of your Grandpa after a few......but rather, one of those 70 year old vines that keep producing some outstanding, affordable wines from Yalumba.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

The Great Down Under

Posted Friday, April 18, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

WOW! You survived the great Indiana earthquake of 2008!!

And, as if some seismic unsettling of the earth's core wasn't enough to set you on edge, then I can help you. It's the end of the world as you know it so get a refund for that carbon off-set you purchased and trot on down to Greenfield Liquors, aka State Street Exchange, drink some wine with me and we'll all go down together..... to Australia that is.....which is exactly where we landed on Thursday with the wines of Yalumba in tow.

Welcome to the wonderful world of one of my favorite vineyards. But, to all of my faithful readers out there (all one of you) you already know this little factoid so I will plow forward with brevity, wit, and a few descriptive adjectives thrown in, just to confuse those of you in Greencastle.

I was delighted to open, from the "Y" series of Yalumba wines, the 2007 Reisling. This is a tremendous wine not only for the price, $12.29, but also for the lime, grapefruit, and citrusy flavors that exploded from this straw colored wine. This is not your typical sweet Reisling. It is dry, acidic and delightfully clean on the finish. Do yourself a favor and pick up a bottle or two for the upcoming weekends.

After all, with all of the children's activities clouding up your free time, don't you owe it to yourself to partake in a little prince/princess time now and then. If not, I have also found that soccer games go by much faster while sipping on a fresh, clean glass of wine.....I'm just saying.

Until

The Wine Tellar

A

Alphabet Soup

Posted Tuesday, April 15, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Thursdays wine tasting at Greenfield Liquors has introduced some seductive and delicious white wines and this past week was no exception. We opted to go back to the classroom to learn our A,B C's again. And, A,B,C does not stand for "Anything But Chardonnay" because that is exactly what we opened, tasted and thoroughly enjoyed.

From the whimsical winery "A to Z", home based in Oregon, this unoaked Chardonnay was well balanced and wonderfully friendly. To those wine tasters who are unfamiliar with unoaked Chardonnay, to put it simply, these grapes were aged in a stainless steel tank so that more of the natural flavors of the Chardonnay grape could come shining thru. And, shining thru they did with vivid pears, green apples, limes, tangerine and a hint of smooth butter finished off this succulent summer wine.

The price is a little, well, pricey for what I would consider an 'everyday' wine meant to drink now although may hold its own for about two years. At $15.99 you might want to save a bottle or three of this wine to entertain and serve to your rich uncle with a heart condition, if you know what I mean. Or, purchase a bottle and save it for a special occasion. But, from where I sit, everyday is a special occasion and worthy of partaking in the grape, so crack open that cap, come on over to my house, and we'll toast the coming of Spring.

Until then, see you on Thursday and remember:

"The purpose of life is the expansion of happiness!"*

and the expansion of my wine cellar....

The Wine Tellar

A

*Quoted by Depok Chopra

"Grazzi"...ano

Posted Monday, April 14, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Welcome to the return of "Thirsty Thursday's" wine notes as we are back pouring our hearts out along with some great wine on Thursdays from 5:00 - 8:00 pm. I am sacrificing my precious evening hours at State Street Exchange to help you, the finicky wine connoisseur, get a jump on some great wine for yet another busy but pleasurable weekend. The things I do for wine! The things wine does for me! It's a beautiful partnership. Now let's talk some wine....

The red wine selection of the day was from one of my favorite wine makers Greg Graziano who hales from Mendocino County in northern California. The Graziano family of wines has been around since 1918 and in my humble opinion, taste better every year. We opened the 2001 Petite Sirah and never looked back. This delicious little beauty is actually 95% Petite Sirah and 5% Zinfandel, and originates from old vines scattered throughout the bench lands (places to sit after drinking to much for those of you in Knightstown) and hillsides of Mendocino County.

On the palate, this wine is smooth, soft and ripe full of ripe berries, plums, cherries and a dash of spice. It would pair amazingly with roasted lamb or beef and even hearty pasta dishes, preferably with red sauce, should the urge to cook actually overwhelm you and make you forget, even for a second, the wonders of carry-out.

But I digress because I don't cook!! Yes, it's true....a wine drinker who actually doesn't pair wine and food and actually drank this "Petite Gem' with a chicken quesadilla compliments of Qdoba and found it equally delightful long after the tasting was over the panty hose had hit the floor. Now that I've delivered that promising imagery to your frontal lobe I will bid you good-bye and tell you to "Never Expect more than this and a mental ramble. I'm in the market for some present tense",* Or in my case, some "wine" tense. See you Thusrday.

The Wine Tellar

A

*Quote compliments of Annie Dillard

Back Down Under

Posted Tuesday, March 25, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Welcome to the continued musings of the Wine Taster of Greenfield. I taste it, and drink it, so you don't have to....unless you really like it then of course, buying it would come under your purview. We continued Saturdays tasting by turning our attention from "Shoo Fly" to Shiraz and before you know it we'll be sharing sea shells by the sea shore.....Sorry, I have spring break on the brain......back to the tasting.

Yalumba, the oldest family owned vineyard in Australia, delivers quality wines vintage to vintage and has done so for over 150 years. This particular wine is grown from 30-50 year old vines from the Barossa Valley. The final product is 95% Shiraz with 5% Viognier blended in to actually soften and enhance the color of the wine (a little French trick). This has always been a favorite wine for me because at under $20, it delivers a mouthful of dark cherries, plums and fruit flavors that are well balanced with a nice, easy smooth finish.

Enjoy this wine at your favorite upcoming family gathering or just as a nice way to end the day. After all, finding a great wine at a great price, so close to home is a delightful way to to end any day......especially those days ending in "Y".

As Always,

The Wine Tellar

A

Buzz, Buzz, Buzz

Posted Tuesday, March 25, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Hello fellow tasters of the grape!! A belated Happy Easter to all of you across the fruited plains. I apologize for the lack of interesting and informative wine tasting notes from our now infamous Wine Tastings at Greenfield Liquors. But, alas, my trusty computer took a serious nose dive and had to be placed in intensive care. While minions of "techno geeks" were pouring over my hard drive, I too, took a nose dive on Saturday and poured myself a new addition to the store from Southern Australia.

May I introduce you to "Shoo Fly, Buzz Cut 2006." This reasonably price white blend is new to the store so in an effort to appear chic and cutting edge, we chilled this little Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Viognier blend and popped the "Stelvin Enclosure" (or Screw Top for those of you in Lebanon) Unfortunately, I think we chilled our little "Fly" just a scoosh too much as the initial taste was bland and lacking in any kind of flavor. However, I am happy to report that, by tastings end, the wine had warmed up and the citrus of the Sauvignon Blanc and the flower of the Viognier could definitely be identified on the palate.

So, for those of you who tasted my little "Shoo" early on and were seemingly disappointed, just remember, "Days in summer are apt to linger"* and when they do, may you have plenty of good summer wine to enjoy with a little food, a few good friends and minutes that linger as you watch the world go by... in "Fly " time, of course.

As always,

The Wine Taster

A

*Quoted by Oscar Wilde

It's all about the wine!

Posted Wednesday, February 20, 2008 by Amanda Ahrendts

Welcome to my musings on yet another successful wine tasting at Greenfield Liquors.

Saturdays at the store are quickly becoming the destination spot for both the seasoned wine drinker as well as the newbie. And, although the weather enticed most of you to stay away (it was downright tropical on Saturday) those of you who did venture over to the wine counter walked away with some pleasant nuances on your palate.

First on the lips was the Ruffino Pinot Grigio from the Friuli region of Italy. This was a surprising wine to taste. I am so used to the light, tastless Pinot Grigio's from California, think Ecco Domani, that when I first tasted the Ruffino I was taken aback. The palate was rich and full of flavors blasting forth with ripe pears and crisp juicy apricots. The finish on this full bodied wine was long and zesty. The price point, at $12.99 made this wine even easier to swallow. With spring right around the corner, put this little gem in the "fridge" and pop it out whenever you have company over that you want to impress.

The red selection of the week was from Argentina. Bodega Trapiche, under the label of Broquel, has bottled one outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon. This 120 year old winery harvested these grapes from the warm region of Mendoza and that made all the difference. This was a very seductive wine and had me at Hello! The bottle opened up with a bang. The aroma was fruit filled but a little tight at first. As the day progressed, this Cab opened up and softened into creamy, well-crafted juices full of black cherries and wild berry flavors. The finish was firm, long and fresh. And, as luck would have it, local chef and Carnegie's restaurant owner Ian Harrison stopped by long enough to give this wine his nod of approval as well. But, most impressive of all is it's price tag, at $15.49 this jewel will impress even the most ardent wine snob.

Last on the tasting table was the Muscadelle Tokay from the Chambers Rosewood winery of Australia. This dessert wine was full of molasses, spices and brown sugar with a little rum raisin ice cream finish. The 18.5% alcohol content along with the high residual sugars creates an amazing concentration of flavors that are meant to be relished after dinner in front of a fire. This powerful little bottle of wine has a little something for everyone. Share it with yourself first and if there's any left over, grace someones palate... but only if they are worthy.

Well, that concludes our trip around the world! Your wine passport has no doubt been enhanced and you are now thirsty for more. Don't despair, every Saturday is traveling day so join me from 1:00-4:00 pm and we'll hop the wine train together.

Until...

The Wine Tellar

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