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2010

 


Asheville’s Best Free Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday, March 6 1pm-3pm & 4pm-8pm www.appalachianvintner.com







    Wine:


    Yvon Mau Vin de Pays des Cotes de Gascogne – Gascony, France. 50% Colombard, 50% Chardonnay. The first installments of this luxurious blend produces wines that can seem saturated in their depth of fruit, one of the shining stars of Gascony. Chardonnay grown in the sun of the Southwest can also produce wines of great texture and fruit. Combine them, pair it with great friends, any rustic cuisine and there you have the quintesential wine experience. Shelf $9.99   Sale $7.99


    Castle Rock California Cuvée Pinot Noir– Various vineyards in California. Castle Rock Pinot Noir is produced from grapes grown in a carefully selected group of California vineyards, at which the climate and soil conditions provide excellent growing conditions for this Burgundian varietal. The wine is elegant and medium-bodied, offering aromas of cherry, tea and herbal spice. On the palate it is smooth with a silky texture and mild tannins, giving flavors of black cherry, plum and spice, and finishing long and harmoniously, This versatile food wine pairs well with lamb, veal, salmon and light pasta dishes. Winemaker  August Briggs.
    Shelf $11.99     Tasting $10.79


    14 Hands Winery Cabernet Sauvignon– 78% Cab, 8% Cab Franc, 6% Syrah, 4% Merlot, 4% other.  Appalachian Vintner has sold the wines of 14 Hands since day one. They are well-made, decently structured and affordable. This is all possible do to the winemaker, Keith Kenison. Keith has been the winemaker at Cht Ste Michelle, and now is the assistant winemaker at Columbia Crest, both worldclass wineries. Ripe red stone fruit, toasty and full in the mouth. Excellent value. Shelf $11.99  Sale $10.79


    Geoff & Charles


    Check us out on Facebook, Twitter , Local Wine Events.com


    ~We will be sampling easter/passover beers from around the world~


Asheville’s Best Free Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday, March 6 1pm-3pm & 4pm-8pm www.appalachianvintner.com







    Wine:


    Amity Vineyards Dry Gewürztraminer Willamette Valley, Oregon. Amity is an American pioneer in dry Gewürztraminer. They made the first dry Gewürztraminer in 1977 and have been making it ever since. One of the few dry Gewürztraminers in North America with residual sugar less than 1%. This vintage continues their tradition of “Alsace in America”. A traditional Gewürztraminer nose of pear and lychee nut leads into a round, smooth, full-bodied wine. It is a wonderful companion to Chinese and Thai dishes, as well as smoked foods, eggs, curry dishes and turkey. National Retail $18.99   AV $15.99 Sale $14.39


    Oriel IL Gattopardo Nero d’Avola– 100% Nero d’Avola from low-yielding, old vines in stony soil on the tip of Sicily near the Ionian Sea. Fermented with native yeasts, unfined & unfiltered, aged in French oak. Black berry and red currant, with notes of coffee and chocolate from barrel aging. Smooth and round with soft tannins. National Retail $25     AV $15.99 Tasting $13.59


    Lolonis Winery Redwood Valley Merlot– Whats truly amazing about this winery and its vineyards is the fact that they actually began farming organically in the 1950’s!! With implementation of cover crops and the use of ladybugs they led the way for the future use of organic viticulture in California. This Merlot is claret-like in style: full bodied but zesty on the palate with lots of fruit, light oak character,and a finish that suggests cherry, cedar, plum, and aniseed. Above all it is clean and pure in its expression. National Retail $17.99  AV $15.99 Sale $13.49


    Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Lot #50– Predominantly comprised of Zinfandel, with Petite Sirah and Carignane as well as smaller amounts of Cabernet & Syrah. Various Italian Varietals round the blend. Characterized by intense spicy aromas, bright fruit and a rich structure. Consistent and approachable for the last thirty years. One of our best sellers from California, with its popularity has unfortunately come an increase in the price, Appalachian Vintner has held the pricing of years past for our customers. Shelf $ 14.99 Everyday Best Price $12.99


    Beer:


    Olde Hickory Brewery Hickory Stick Stout– Hickory, NC. Beeradvocate “Intricate crown of lacing on the glass, two clear shades away from black as well. Slightly burnt, charred wood aroma with some subtle fruitiness and yeast in the back. Charred grain is very prevalent but never acrid or astringent. Hints of coffee and dark chocolate with some mild herbal citric hop…..Well rounded…in its semi-dry finish…” Rated A-. We will be sampling beer from one of the brewerys 5L mini-kegs, a great package of 14 12oz beers for $19.50. Pints will be available for $3.50 all day.


    When all is said and done we hope to have taken toll of all of who have helped us on our way. If we have not said it before, we thank you and look forward to many many more chances to assist in your journey of fine libation.


    Geoff & Charles


    Check us out on Facebook, Twitter , Local Wine Events.com




Asheville’s Best Free Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday, March 13 1pm-3pm & 4pm-8pm www.appalachianvintner.com



    New Arrivals


    Vestini Sangiovese– Terre Di Chieti, Abruzzo. Delicious red from central Italy


    Vita IlTrullo Primitivo del Salento– hand harvested from 40 year old vines


    B E E R


    Weihenstephan Korbinian Dopplebock– one of the worlds top dopplebocks


    Het Anker Gouden Carolus Easter Ale– Spiced Strong blond, very limited


    The Bruery Saison de Lente– fermented with the wild yeast strain Brettanomyces


    Allagash Hugh Malone Ale– Named for the “grandfather” of modern hoppy beer. $1 for every bottle sold benefits MOFGA



    Wine:


    Bodegas As Laxas Albarino Rias Baixas, Spain. Located in the top West corner of Spain, in Galicia, Rias Baixas is the premier white wine region in Spain and its golden shining star is Albarino. Wines from this area frequently smell and taste of the sea. This salinity has helped cement it as a beloved partner to seafood & shellfish, a specialty of this area of Spain. Laxas is hand-harvested from 25+ year old vines on mineral and sandy soils. It is also estate grown and bottled. half bottles AV $7.99 Sale $6.99


    Vina Tabali Sauv White– 100% Sauvignon Blanc from low-yielding, low-fertility soils in the marine influenced, cool climate of the San Antonio in Western Chile. A custom cuvee for the importer, this wine shows ripe fleshy melon with hints of herbs, grass and citrus. AV $9.99 Sale $8.49 or $95.88 case


    Symington Family Estates Altano Douro Tinto– I wish that I could remember specifically but I do believe that the bottle that revolutionized my deep interest in wine was from this dry wine growing region of Portugal, the Douro. With the wine world over-run with French varietals, grapes like Tinta Roriz & Touriga Franca peaked the interest of my young palate which was searching for something off-the-beaten path. If anything we find these dry Portuguese wines to be monstrous values. Heavenly floral aromas graced with peppery notes, on the palate it shows forward flavors of cherry and raspberry. Hidden in the back are drops of mocha & chocolate. Pizza/Pasta/Grill National Retail $10.99  AV $8.99 Tasting $8.09


    Chateau Haut Beyzac Grand Vin Du Haut Beyzac– Haut Medoc, Bordeaux. 55% Cab, 35-40% Merlot & 10% Petit Verdot. Barely 1000 cases of this little red are produced. It is 100% estate grown and crafted from the oldest plots of vines. Husband and wife team Daren & Emmanuelle met in Pennsylvania and latter returned to Emmanuelle’s native Bordeaux. They have since brought this old estate back to its esteemed glory. While production is still small, every year the wines improve and the vineyards production is showing promise. Shelf $ 19.99 Tasting $16.99


    Beer:


    MOA Brewing Co MOA Noir– Marlborough, New Zealand. This dark lager is made by Josh Scott, son of Allan Scott, pioneer wine maker in New Zealand. I find this style of beer very satisfying and drinkable. Loads of flavor, clean and uncluttered this is the only beer in New Zealand to be fermented in the bottle, which adds to its refreshing qualities. Moa Noir is a European dark lager/Munchner Dunkel. It is a dark brown beer with hues of red and a characteristic strong white foam. Malt dominates with chocolate, coffee and biscuit flavors apparent. Bitterness is low to emphasis malt flavors. Subtle bitterness rounds out the after taste and mouth feel. Hop aroma is minimal. Best served at approximately 6ºC in a lager glass. A classic match with full flavored dishes such as game meats. Samples will be limited. 4 packs & Singles


    Anyone that missed the tasting of Olde Hickory Brewery last week, take our word for it these beers are some of the best in NC. Try one of their six styles on your next visit.


    We will be hosting Paws with a Purpose next Friday here at the store. The event will be from 5pm-7pm cost will be $15 dollars at the door. We will be conducting a wine tasting, silent auction, meet and great with the therapy dogs and more! This group truly makes a difference in the lives of those stricken with illness, we hope that some of you will be able to attend.


    Thank you so much for your time and we look forward to seeing you soon.


    Geoff & Charles


    Check us out on Facebook, Twitter , Local Wine Events.com


Asheville’s Best Free Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday, March 20 1pm-3pm & 4pm-8pm www.appalachianvintner.com



    New Arrivals


    Tezza Corte Majoli Valpolicella– Veneto, Italy. If there are better wines for this price coming out of the Veneto, please let us know.


    B E E R


    Sierra Nevada 30th Anniversary Stout– Sierra Nevada & Anchor Steam Brewing, two of the oldest names in California. Corked 750mL


    Anchor Brewing Company Porter– The original English Porter, stateside.


    Stoudt’s Brewing Company Fat Dog Stout– Oatmeal/Imperial hybrid stout.


    Stoudt’s Brewing Company Double Indian Pale Ale


    Ballast Point Big Eye I.P.A.


    Ballast Point Black Marlin Porter


    Ballast Point SCULPIN I.P.A.– This elegant, balanced beer is almost heavenly to behold. Limited


    Boulder Beer Company Flashback Anniversary Ale– Once a seasonal limited release, now available year-round. India Brown Ale.


    Highland Brewing Company Seven Sisters Abbey Style Dubbel



    Wine:


    Varner Foxglove Chardonnay– 100% Chardonnay from the Santa Cruz Mountains. The sensational 2008 Chardonnay Central Coast, which is fermented and aged completely in stainless steel with no malolactic fermentation, is a 30,000-cuvee of fabulous Chardonnay. Loads of tropical fruit, honeysuckle, and orange blossom notes fill the olfactory sense, as does the luscious medium-bodied texture on the palate. The wine is buttressed by crisp underlying acidity, and the result is a fresh, naked expression of Chardonnay that is top-flight. 91 pts AV $15.99 Sale $14.39 or $163.10 case


    Bodegas Torremoron Tempranillo– Ribera del Duero, Spain. 100% Tempranillo Located in Zone 2 within the province of Burgos (eastern sub-region of Ribera del Duero) in the Town of Quintanamanvirgo at an altitude of 2,703 ft. (824 m). Quintanamanvirgo has a population of 106 people. The winery boasts many qualities rarely seen in Ribera. 60 to 120 years old Tempranillo vines as opposed to many young vines planted in the DO. A 50 years old tradition of wine making and an experienced viticulturist. They offer great quality at a fair price point, rare in Ribera del Duero. This wine sees no oak at all, to showcase the lively depth of flavor in an old vine Tempranillo. Organic AV $11.99 Tasting $10.79


    VITA Il Trullo Primitivo del SalentoFor centuries, a favorite local Italian grape has been Primitivo. DNA testing has finally revealed that Puglia’s Primitivo, California’s Zinfandel and Croatia’s Crljenak are genetically equivalent (and probably originated in Greece.) Il Trullo is a selected cuvee of Primitivo, made for Villa Italia by local growers and professional winemakers. From 40-year old head-pruned vines, it is hand-picked and vinified in temperature controlled steel tanks. It is bottled young to capture the vibrant cherry fruit which makes Primitivo so immediately appealing. Bottle aging brings out the spicy nuances of the wine, as well as some enticing eucalyptus notes. Though the wine is young and fresh, it has great depth of color and flavor. It also has a firm structural backbone, but soft tannins on the long finish. Shelf $ 12.99 Tasting $11.69



    We will be hosting Paws with a Purpose this Friday. The event will be from 5pm-7pm cost will be $15 dollars at the door. We will be conducting a wine tasting, silent auction, meet and great with the therapy dogs and more! This group truly makes a difference in the lives of those stricken with illness, we hope that some of you will be able to attend. Wines to be tasted:


    Saint Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux Santa Barbara Winery Chardonnay


    Cederberg Bukettraube Rutini Winery Trumpeter Cabernet Sauvignon


    Symington Family Estates Vale do Bomfim Douro


    Tezza Corte Majoli Valpolicella


    Thank you so much for your time and we look forward to seeing you soon.


    Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Free Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday, March 27 1pm-3pm & 4pm-8pm www.appalachianvintner.com



    New Arrivals


    Catina Montelliana Extra Dry Prosecco– Veneto, Italy. Stagering Value. $11.99


    Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo– Estate grown, hand harvested. $9.99!!


    B E E R


    Bell’s Brewing Company Oberon– One of the top domestic wheat beers producted and the top seller for the brewery. Next week.


    Clipper City Heavy Seas Big Dipa– Double IPA for $5.56 22oz.


    Great Divide Espresso Oak Aged Yetti


    Great Divide Collette Farmhouse Ale


    Unibroue Quelque Chose– 50% dark strong, 50% brown ale brewed with cherries. Best by 12-31-2025!


    Ommegang Belgian-style Pale Ale– Just released


    Dogfish Head Burton Baton– Oak aged IPA


    Abita Strawberry Harvest Lager– limited seasonal




    Wine:


    Cielo Pinot Grigio– 100% Pinot Grigio from Delle Venezie in the Veneto. This family owned winery dates back to the early 1900’s. It now farms around 3,000 acres across Northern Italy. We have sold this wine for almost eight years now, it is consistently well-made and always a great value. While it is light and refreshing it manages to show some a pleasant yeasty note, surrounded by green apple. AV $7.99 Sale $7.19 or $81.50 case


    Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo– Over the past ten years the Masciarelli Wine Estate has been the most cutting edge producer in the most cutting edge region of Italy. In Italy Masciarelli is famous as Italy’s 2004 Winery of the Year, just on the heels of Gianni Masciarelli’s(RIP) Winemaker of the Year honors in 2003. Today Masciarelli is the largest organically farmed Estate in Italy, with 1,000 prime acres of Abruzzo vineyards from the cool, mountain Villa Gemma and Marina Cvetic vineyards at San Martino, to the warm, low lying Valori and Iskra vineyards in Teramo. This wine is clear golden with green flashes. Its stainless steel fermentation yields fresh apricot and peach. The soil from which it is grown adds a wholesome white tea note. Lively and fresh, we foresee this wine being one of the top sellers this summer. Organic AV $9.99 Case $8.49 per btl


    Marquis de Fonseguille Vacqueyras Rouge– 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah & 10% Cinsault. Cru des Cotes du Rhone, Vacqueyras. Wine has been produced in the region since the 15th century. However records are sparse, reduced to mentioning large vineyards and a decree on how to keep hungry goats away from the grapes. After almost 450 years,Vacqueyras was finally granted its own AOC, the first in the region since Gigondas in 1971 and the first of a number of candidates for that particular honor, recently bestowed to Beaumes-de-Venise and Vinsobres. Being that this blend is mostly Grenache rather than Syrah, it seems round and lush, as apposed to the powerful focus that these wines usually showcase. It is made at a co-op of 80 families, most of which use sustainable practices. Shelf $ 15.99 Tasting $14.39


    Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Mourvedre– Contra Costa County, CA. Mourvèdre is an “exotic” grape found in the Rhône and Provence regions of France, Spain and Australia. It is a key component in Chateauneuf-du-Pape and has a starring role in the brutish wines of Bandol. Once widely planted in California (where it is often called Mataro), today only a tiny amount exists and Cline owns many of the historic ancient vines that remain. This Mourvèdre draws from some of the oldest, most historic and shyest-bearing vineyard blocks. These blocks produce fruit that has stunning concentration. Stunning concentration is what this wine has, in handfuls. Distinct chocolate characteristics and a luscious deep plum paste flavor. Handfuls of velvety texture make this wine a perfect candidate to all of the rustic grilling fare for the coming spring/summer BBQ’s, here’s to some sunshine! Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.49


    Beer


    Weihenstephan Korbinian Dopplebock– Freising, Germany. Hops, barley, water & yeast, the purist law of the land. The Purity Law of 1516 is now almost 400 years old, Weihenstephan has been a brewery for OVER 970 years old! This allows the title of “World’s Oldest Brewery”, a label that we feel they deserve in its entirety. The Korbinian is there Dopplebock, or strong dark lager. It is one of the most balanced, flavorful examples in the market today. The overwhelming experience here is the purity from which all of this flavor leaps, sweet malt, caramel and a mild dried fruit. 18 oz bottles $3.49


    Highland Brewing Company Seven Sisters Abbey Style Ale– Asheville, NC. This Abbey Style Dubbel Ale earns its appellation by being brewed with double the normal grain bill and the addition of Belgian dark candi sugar. Fermenting with Trappist yeast creates dark fruit esters. Pilsen, Pale, Extra Special and Chocolate malts evoke classic Belgian Ale sweet aromas with a hint of nuttiness. Use of Hallertau Hersbrucker and German Select hops enhance authenticity and provide a restrained bittering of 20 IBUs and a slight spicy aroma. 6 pk $8.99 Singles $1.75


    Thank you so much for your time and we look forward to seeing you soon.


    Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday April, 3 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Writing this email while looking out through a gorgeous sunny day, makes the winter chill a very distant memory. With this gorgeous weather comes the next installment in our search for a proper beverage, appropriate for the nature of our environment.


For us these bottles hold crisp refreshing whites, sparkling wine, rosé from around the world and cold fermented Lagers & Pilsner beers. It seems as though there are always one of the aforementioned products in our glasses these days. All of which are made for foods of just about any sort and also taste great when the outdoor temps rise into the shorts & flip flops area.


Our tasting this weekend showcases a few of our favorites, we hope you will find some time to join us….


Wine:


Cantina Montelliana e dei Colle Asolani Prosecco Extra Dry– 100% Prosecco from the DOC of the same name (Prosecco) in the Veneto. The Veneto extends from the Alps to the Adriatic coast and includes the Italian slopes of the eastern Alps and almost all of the underlying pre-Alpine belt with the entire Veneto plain as far as the river Isonzo. The climate changes from the Alpine to Mediterranean as one descends from the mountain areas to the plain and the coast. This Prosecco is made using natural fermentation, according to the Charmat method in large vats. Produced with grapes cultivated in the Montello and Asolo hills. Pale straw-yellow color with greenish glints, typical fruity bouquet and taste, with a muscat like note of flowers in full bloom. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


Longview Vineyard Whippet Sauvignon Blanc– 100% Sauvignon Blanc from the single vineyard, Macclesfield, located on the South Eastern Ridge of the Mt Lofty Ranges and to the south has the southern ocean and to the east Lake Alexandrina. This accounts for a slightly higher average temperature than the rest of the Adelaide Hills while still remaining a cool-climate site. Pale straw in color with passion fruit and honeysuckle, white flowers and lemon. Further complex bouquets of cut citrus and tropical fruit, a clean, attractively fragrant wine, fully expressive of the Adelaide Hills. Mouth filling flavors of passion fruit and melon, gooseberry and nettle together with the green apple, grass and herbaceous elements of vital Sauvignon Blanc. Apple and nashi pear characters define a vibrant, zesty, balanced palate with citrus and gentle acidity. Longview is generous and luscious, crisp and lively through the middle with terrific balance and a refreshingly crisp finish. Enjoy with goats cheese tart, grilled whiting or the freshest oysters. Shelf $ 9.99 Tasting $8.99


Viña Montes Limited Selection Pinot Noir– 100% Pinot Noir from the Casablanca Valley, Chile. This wine has 6 months of aging in French oak and a very soft filtering. Aurelio (the wine maker) believes it has strong varietal character and a great complexity. Somewhat darker color than the typical Pinots, it has a deeper ruby color. The aroma is that of a classic Pinot Noir, with very floral notes with hints of violets and cherry. On the palate, it shows ripe strawberry, a medium body a gorgeous velvety texture. A few minutes of decanting is recommended and helps fill the body out. One of our favorite Pinots year in and year out. Montes is by far on of the best wineries in Chile and the Casablanca is quickly becoming world renowned for Pinot Noir and other cool climate grapes. Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.49


Kermit Lynch Vin de Pays du Vaucluse Rouge– Vaucluse, Provence France. When a wine is labeled “Blended by Kermit Lynch” or “Cuvée Selectionnée par Kermit Lynch”, it can mean a couple of things. Kermit might arrive at a winery that has wines in barrel, in foudres, in stainless steel or cement, that has old vine cuvées and young, that has cuvées of different grape varieties to choose from etc. He tastes everything and then begins blending to try and come up with something special. A percentage of this and that, a touch of this or that – he composes and shapes the blend until he has what he wants. The vigneron bottles it, and we sell it to you at a great price. Also, every so often when Kermit tastes at a domaine, he likes a specific cuvée but isn’t impressed with the label and therefore decides to use his own. The Vin de Pay de Vaucluse Rouge, made by Domaine de Durban falls under this definition. This wine is the epitome of the KLWM style as well as Appalachian Vintners: small production, high quality and great pricing. Shelf $11.99 Tasting 15% off @ $10.19


Beer:


Bavik Pilsner– Bavikhove West Flanders, Belgium. Bavikhove is Germanic and means “the farm of the people of Bavo”. It is believed that the village must have been founded around 2 or 3 farms in the 4th or 5th century, when German tribes settled in the area. The first historical texts about this village are dated 1120. Color: very light, hardly any sparkling, fine white head Taste: the bitterness introduced already in the aroma, comes completely forward in the aftertaste. Considered one of the top Pilsners during the Michael Jackson International Pilsner tasting in Beer Passion Magazine, autumn 2000, where 27 Pilsners from around the world were ‘blind’ tasted and compared.


Olde Hickory Brewery Ruby Lager– Hickory, NC. This lager is brewed in the Vienna style, given this name because the style was developed around Vienna, Austria. A light to medium body, with a malty aroma. Beers produced and labeled as Marzen or Oktoberfest are likely to be of the Vienna Lager style. Quickly becoming a number one seller here at the store, this beer is delicous with lots of character, and a snappy fresh finish. 22 oz $3.89


These beers are just a fraction of the styles we offer here at Appalachian Vintner, stop by soon to see the great new beer arriving daily.


Thank you so much for taking the time, we look forward to seeing you soon.


Geoff & Charles.


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday April, 10 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


We are happy today to write that March has been one of the best months to date. 2010 is stacking up to be our best yet! No doubt due to the wonderful support we receive each and every day from all of you. Charles and I would like to offer our sincere appreciation.


Upcoming Events:


NC Stangs Custom Car ShowSaturday April, 24 2010. 10AM-4PM


Brother Wolf Animal Rescue Benefit Friday May, 21. 5:30PM-8PM


Asheville Community Theatre Benefit TBA





New Releases:


Carlos Basso Dos Fincas Malbec– Argentina $10.99


William Hill Chardonnay– Central Coast, C.A.


Delas Feres Merlot


Owl Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon– Sonoma, C.A. This wine may sound familiar, and it should because we hosted the winemaker last year. Available at an amazing price $15.99 for a very limited time.


Bodegas Olivares Panarroz– 60% Monastrell, 25% Garnacha, 15% Syrah


Oskar Blues GUBNA Imperial IPA– Colorado. Deliciously balanced Double IPA… In a can!!


Lagunitas Wilco Tango Foxtrot Ale– 22oz


Tasting:


Yalumba “Y” Series Viognier– Barossa, Australia. From Australia’s oldest family owned winery. Bright yellow straw with green tinges, the 2009 Y Series Viognier has an eclectic mix of aromas, namely orange blossom, fresh ginger, camomile floweres and hazelnuts. The palate displays richness and texture from wild fermentation and lees aging with the flavours characterised by grapefruit pit, ginger and lemongrass. A clean, persistent finish, complemented by some exotic spices, this wine will reward if served with Thai-style dishes such as pad thai or pandan chicken. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Artazuri Rosado– 100% Garnacha. Faithful to Navarra’s tradition, this rosé is made by means of the accepted system of drawing juice from the must, based on the use of gravity after a short period of maceration saignée. Youth, fruitiness and freshness are the most remarkable features of this wine. Farming Practice: Sustainable. Age of Vines: 10-15 year old vines from vineyards that were a “nearly lost inheritance,” and through hard and labor intensive viticulture, Artadi has revived these tired plots and transformed them from the forgotten to the avant-garde. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Cave des Vignerons de Saumur La Réserve des Vignerons Rouge– 100% Cabernet Franc from a co-op that dates from 1956. The Cave de Saumur has been expanding since its creation. It is above all a human venture, marked by numerous events which create the heart, character and memory of man. We have had the pleasure of sampling numerous vintages of this wine. Always at its core is a iron laden minerality, braced by spiced red fruit. Light to medium bodied and clean with no oak to speak of, this Cab Franc is one of the purest expressions in the market. Just for reference Cab Franc is the “father” of Cabernet Sauvignon. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday April, 10 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


We are happy today to write that March has been one of the best months to date. 2010 is stacking up to be our best yet! No doubt due to the wonderful support we receive each and every day from all of you. Charles and I would like to offer our sincere appreciation.


Upcoming Events:


NC Stangs Custom Car ShowSaturday April, 24 2010. 10AM-4PM


Brother Wolf Animal Rescue Benefit Friday May, 21. 5:30PM-8PM


Asheville Community Theatre Benefit TBA





New Releases:


Carlos Basso Dos Fincas Malbec– Argentina $10.99


William Hill Chardonnay– Central Coast, C.A.


Delas Feres Merlot


Owl Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon– Sonoma, C.A. This wine may sound familiar, and it should because we hosted the winemaker last year. Available at an amazing price $15.99 for a very limited time.


Bodegas Olivares Panarroz– 60% Monastrell, 25% Garnacha, 15% Syrah


Oskar Blues GUBNA Imperial IPA– Colorado. Deliciously balanced Double IPA… In a can!!


Lagunitas Wilco Tango Foxtrot Ale– 22oz


Tasting:


Yalumba “Y” Series Viognier– Barossa, Australia. From Australia’s oldest family owned winery. Bright yellow straw with green tinges, the 2009 Y Series Viognier has an eclectic mix of aromas, namely orange blossom, fresh ginger, camomile flowers and hazelnuts. The palate displays richness and texture from wild fermentation and lees aging with the flavors characterized by grapefruit pit, ginger and lemon grass. A clean, persistent finish, complemented by some exotic spices, this wine will reward if served with Thai-style dishes such as pad thai or pandan chicken. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Artazuri Rosado– 100% Garnacha. Faithful to Navarra’s tradition, this rosé is made by means of the accepted system of drawing juice from the must, based on the use of gravity after a short period of maceration saignée. Youth, fruitiness and freshness are the most remarkable features of this wine. Farming Practice: Sustainable. Age of Vines: 10-15 year old vines from vineyards that were a “nearly lost inheritance,” and through hard and labor intensive viticulture, Artadi has revived these tired plots and transformed them from the forgotten to the avant-garde. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Cave des Vignerons de Saumur La Réserve des Vignerons Rouge– 100% Cabernet Franc from a co-op that dates from 1956. The Cave de Saumur has been expanding since its creation. It is above all a human venture, marked by numerous events which create the heart, character and memory of man. We have had the pleasure of sampling numerous vintages of this wine. Always at its core is a iron laden minerality, braced by spiced red fruit. Light to medium bodied and clean with no oak to speak of, this Cab Franc is one of the purest expressions in the market. Just for reference Cab Franc is the “father” of Cabernet Sauvignon. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


William Hill Estate Cabernet Sauvignon– Central Coast, C.A. Just off the Silverado Trail in Southern Napa, William Hill Estate’s 200 acre property lies on the stunning Silverado Bench. Benchlands are gentle slopes that rise from the valley floor due to millennia of geologic activity. Unlike the rich, sandy loam soil that dominates the Napa Valley floor, benchland soils tend to be rocky, thin, and nutrient deprived which makes it difficult for the grapevine’s roots to penetrate deep within the soil. The stressed vines produce smaller berries of intense flavor and color concentration. This wine has scents of black currant, mild sea mist, and spice. The wine, not mangled by an awkward, heavy-handed oak treatment, has layers of blackberry and blackcurrant fruit on the palate, with hints spice and dried leaves in the background. Well-balanced, with freshening acidity and soft, but present tannins, this wine is a noble effort for something at this price-point. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday April, 10 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Oh what a day! Our son, well my son, but you all have seen him grow & grow has turned one year old! Mr Ridge had a wonderful day at the park yesterday in celebration of his birthday, surrounded by family and friends. It has been a while since my last report, but we would like to again thank everyone for the amazing support in his early days.


Recently there has been some concern regarding certain products availability. We would like to extend a reminder that if you have seen it for sale in Buncombe County, we can and will order it for you. Plus our prices are the lowest in town, gaunted. In short if there is something that you yearn for, if given the opportunity we will find a shelf placement. Give us a call, or inquire on your next visit about our special orders.


New Arrivals


W I N E:


Frias Family Vineyards Rosé– For those that were here for last weeks tasting its here as promised!


Jean Luc Lafage Côté Est blanc– Predominantly sourced from 80 year old Grenache Blanc in the Cotes Catalanes. 90 points


Shadow Mountain Vineyards Pinot Gris– Willamette, Oregon. Tiny production.


Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay– Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, Cape of Good Hope South Africa.


Palmadina Pinot Grigio– Friuli Isonzo, Italy


Underwood Cellars Pinot Noir– 90% Umpqua, 10% Rogue Valleys in Oregon, 1700 cases produced. $13.99


Van Ruiten Glory Days Zinfandel– Old Vine for under $10.


Basico Rojo– La Mancha, Spain. What can we say, this is a wonderful basic red!


Ken Forrester Petit Pinotage– Stellenbosch, South Africa. Unwooded, sustainably farmed and delicious!


Michael Pozzan Annabella Pinot Noir– Carneros, Napa Valley CA. $15.99!!


Domain Houchart Cotes de Provence Rouge– Made by the venerable Jerome Quiot in the far Eastern corner of France. Grenache/Syrah/Carignan/Cinsault/Cab/Mouvedre.


Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir– Thats right Pinot Noir from South Africa, and a world class example to boot.


B E E R:


Schneider Weisse Hopfen Weisse– A collaboration of Brooklyn Brewery and Schneider. Singles


Emelisse Espresso-stout– Holland. These beers defiy explanation. Try one and you will see. Singles


Emelisse Imperial Russian Stout– 14 cases of this beer made it to North Carolina. Singles


Stoudt’s Brewery Double IPA– Carol Stoudt and family are making some of the best beer in the country. Pure expressions, balanced but deliciously rich. 6 packs


Bear Republic Racer 5– Brewed with 5 strains of alpha hops! 22oz


Tasting:


Saint Hilaire d’Ozilhan Côtes du Rhône Réserve de la Dame à l’Oiseau Blanc– Sourced with-in the Côtes du Rhône, but produced west of the Rhône river where the winery is located. Comprised of Grenache Blanc%70, Marsanne%20 & Roussanne%10 this wine is aromatically pleasing, but not overtly so. It tickles the senses with fresh tree fruit and minerals. On the palate it is dry but has a flush of ripe fruit as well. Perfect summer white, and an honest rarity at this price. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé– South Africa. This sexy, sophisticated dry rosé combines mouthwatering flavors of cherry and wild strawberry with graceful notes of lavender and herbs de Provence. It’s a versatile and accessible pink for all seasons. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, it shows vibrant and ripe with layered aromas of strawberry, red cherry, and raspberry with a hint of rose petal. The palate is similar with flavors of strawberry, pomegranate, and passion fruit. Enjoy with Thai food, crab cakes, fruit-glazed pork chops, and strawberries and cream. Shelf $12.99 Tasting $11.69


Lot 205 Zinfandel– The cornerstone of the 2006 Lot 205 Zinfandel is a dense, full-bodied component from the Plymouth area of Amador County (56%). Its broad-shouldered, brawny character was accentuated by grapes harvested at a high degree of maturity, and fermentation on the skins for 20 days. The balance of the blend, adding lush texture and further flavor interest, is made up of lots from the eastern side of the Lodi growing area (16%), Solano County (19%), and a Syrah component from Paso Robles (9%).. Great vineyard sources show classic Zinfandel aromas of baked cherry and plum, spice cake, and touches of leather and anise. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


Carlos Basso Dos Fincas Malbec – Malbec– Altamira & Tunuyan, Mendoza. The use of two separate vineyards is a traditional practices in Argentina to safe guard against the threat of hail. For the Basso family it also allows them to make a very interesting blend by combining the tributes of two distinct micro climates. The dark powerful fruit from San Carlos(Altamira) & the more nuanced fruit from Tunuyan. It all combines to create a deliciously rich Malbec, that glides over the palate in a well balanced stream of tasty dark fruit. Blueberry, blackberry, black plum and cocoa frame the palate and aromatics. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


Thanks and we hope to see you all soon.


Geoff, Charles & Ridge :0)


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday April, 24 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Hopefully everyone has found at the very least a moment or two to enjoy this amazingly mild weather. Granted there is a storm brewing over the Mid-West, it will be moving out just as fast as it came. We feel so blessed to live in an area that is so lush with natural treasures get out if you can and enjoy them.


Asheville will be visited this weekend by President Barack Obama. President Obama is the eleventh US president to visit Asheville, so while he is not the first this can only mean positive publicity for the area. I also believe that it is not only Asheville’s progressive political climate, but the core of small locally owned artisanal businesses planted here that create the allure for Mr Obama. In closing please remember to put your $ where your heart is, shop local, if not here then somewhere that keeps the revenue here in our green little corner of the world! Just something to think about.


Please remember that this Saturday from 10AM-4PM there will be a custom car show in our parking lot hosted by our neighbors at ISM & NC Stangs. If you can not find a place in front of our store, feel free to park in any of the other lots along Huntsman Pl. For more info please give us a call 828.505.7500


Wine:


Tezza Bianco 1L– Veneto, Italy. You can search the beautiful and informative Tezza website for information on this wine and not find anything. That’s because our friends at the Haw River Wine Man (who import these fine products) have brought us a truly local product. This is the “local wine” from Tezza-stuff that is sold to restaurants and private individuals in the countryside north of Verona. This is what the townspeople fill their jugs with at the winery for drinking at home. Very little makes it out of Veneto, much less Italy. This wine is mostly Garganega (the grape used in wines from Soave) and with some Cortese (used to make wines from Gavi). An excellent table wine from one of Italy’s finest wine regions packaged in a one liter bottle that offers an additional 250 mL of wine. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99 Case $8.50


Merryvale Starmont Sauvignon Blanc– Napa Valley, CA. Showcasing this wine next to the previous, provides a stark contrast in what stainless(Tezza Bianco) and barrel(Starmont SB) bring to the wine making experience. Starmont Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from several distinct growing regions within the Napa Valley, including Oak Knoll, Rutherford, and Oakville, each contributing a different expression of the varietal. This wine was fermented slowly at cool temperatures (50° to 58°F), in a combination of French oak (70% of the blend; only 5% new) and stainless steel tanks (30%). The intent is to preserve and enhance the delicate varietal nuances which exhibit vibrant aromas of lemon curd, lime, guava and passionfruit with a hint of herbaceousness. The refreshing acidity provides for a rich yet balanced mouthfeel and a surprisingly long finish. Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.49 Case $12.75


Paul Sapin Básico Rojo– Spain. Paul Sapin is a master mind of the wine industry. A quick look at his website will tell you why- he makes buying wine affordable and fun. Básico Wines launched out of Atlanta this fall, and the concept is to provide affordable yet high-end wine, inspired by the carefree Spanish lifestyle. “We believe that Básico is an exceptional buy for a wine of this origin and quality, “ says V.P. Brad Norton, “and it is our hope that wine-drinkers of all ages will be able to enjoy the wine with friends and family whenever, wherever, just as the Spanish do.” Básico’s Rojo is made with Spanish Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and has the flavors of fresh red plums and bright flavored red berries. Made in the style of the “jug” wines drunk all over Spain and Europe. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09 Case $7.64


Vina Robles Red 4 Huerhuero Vineyard– Petite Sirah 51% Syrah 43% Tannat 4% Touriga 2% from a single source in Paso Robles. The Power of 4 – this Paso blend is more delicious than the sum of its parts. It combines grapes from the prestigious Huerhuero Vineyard located in the rolling hills of Paso Robles, where warm afternoons and cool evening breezes guide the grapes to perfect ripeness. Vina Robles’ RED4 blend showcases the structure of Petite Sirah, the spice and cherry qualities of Syrah, the depth and structure of Tannat with the floral and violet notes of Touriga. Intense aroma of dark, ripe blackberries, black cherries and currants with undertones of spice, violets and toasty oak. A fresh, lush, youthful blend with ripe structured tannins and notes of dense black berries, ripe cherries and spicy oak. Shelf $15.99 Tasting $14.39


Beer:


Pisgah Endless Summer– Black Mountain, NC.





Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday May, 1 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Our grapevines are in bloom, we will be planting the garden next week, four wine and beer trade shows under our belts….. We love this time of year. Needless to say there will be loads of new products hitting our shelves in the next few weeks from all of the tastings we’ve been attending. Yvon Mau Bordeaux presale will be arriving at the end of this month, with some killer 05′ reds aboard. Talk of numerous wine dinners with Asheville’s best culinary minds & importers has our palates running. One in particular is really going to be a treat, lets just say that the current Reserva release from this 140 year old winery is a 1988!! This is one that should not be missed.


Over the next few days we will be transforming our exterior wall space here at the store. Paint, awnings, vegetation to name but a few. We appreciate your understanding if things are in disarray for a day or two, the finished structural face-lift will be worth the mayhem.





Tasting Wines:


De Bortoli St Kilda Chardonnay– South Eastern Australia. St Kilda wines are produced by De Bortoli Wines, based in Bilbul in the Riverina region of New South Wales. The company is owned by the De Bortoli family and is one of the largest privately owned companies in Australia. De Bortoli Wines was established in 1928 by Vittorio & Giuseppina De Bortoli and rapidly expanded under the direction of their dynamic son, the late Deen De Bortoli. Today the company is in the capable hands of the third generation. Pale straw with green hues. Nose: Zesty lemon and stone-fruit aromas balanced with subtle oak notes. Palate is fruit driven with crisp acid that has been enhanced by lees stirring giving great texture and balance to the mid palate. The subtle oak approach has given added structure to the wine without overpowering it, leaving the citrus and stone-fruit flavors to dominate. Lots of wine for the price. Shelf $ 7.99 Tasting $7.19


Vecchia Torre Leverano Rosato– Leverano Italy. 80% Negroamaro, 20% Malvasia Nera. Gianni Cucci wants you to try the new vintage of Leverano Rosato. We both think you’ll be pleasantly surprised, and I want Gianni to remain happy. He is a friendly, very polite, diminutive wine broker from Lecce, a town midway down the heel of Puglia (and just demoted to Seria B, another reason to want good things for Gianni). This is the best vintage of Leverano Rosato to date – the winemaker at the Cantine Sociale Leverano, Ennio Cagnazzo, is the hardest-working man in wine, responsible for the production of 2 million bottles of wine annually, which are divided along four quality tiers and among many grape varietals. Leverano is the top tier, made of Puglia’s native workhorse grape Negro Amaro, and it is a true value. Tasting this makes two days on a plane worthwhile, and means many of you will be planning an Apulian vacation soon. Drink it with grilled sardines and squid-ink pasta. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Hill of Content Pinot Noir– Adelaide Hills, Australia. Hill of Content was born out of a desire to create interesting Region specific wines at a price that allows for “liberal” consumption. The name translates as “Hill of Happiness”, referring to a state of mind rather than geographic place. It is also a little way of seeking revenge against those “anonymous” glass pour wines that we are sure you have tried and been disappointed by. Light red. Strongly perfumed scents of fresh strawberry, raspberry and candied flowers. Clean and racy, offering brisk red fruit flavors and no apparent tannins. Zesty minerality adds lift and extends the sweet, raspberry-dominated finish. Very nice example of what a warm climate and a light handed wine making approach can do for Pinot Noir….even in Australia! Shelf $15.99 Tasting $14.39


De Bortoli St Kilda Shiraz– From its humble beginnings more than 75 years ago, the De Bortoli Bilbul Winery is today a substantial operation being one of the Riverina’s largest, employing approximately 200 staff. There are 8 winemakers employed at Bilbul, including Senior White Winemaker (John Coughlan) and Senior Red Winemaker (Julie Mortlock). The St Kilda brand was founded on the premise of producing wines of incredible value from premium South East Australian fruit. These are wines that exhibit fresh, fruit-driven characters that are balanced and enjoyable, at a very affordable price. Color is deep red with purple hues. The nose is a combination of pepper, spice and plum fruit with chocolate toasty oak. Full bodied, expressing rich mid palate fruit and spice with generous length, but almost no tannin. 87 points by Steven Tanzer. Shelf $7.99 Tasting $7.19





Tasting Beer:


Stoudts Brewing Company– We will be sampling their Pilsner as well as the American Pale.


Bear Republic Hop Rod Rye– Sonoma County California. Hop Rod Rye is a high performance, turbo charged, alcohol burnin’ monster ale with dual overhead hop injection, made with 18% rye.


Please note beers are samples only and will be very limited for the 4PM-8PM tasters. If you would like to sample beer please come early. Thanks!


All the very best to you all!


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday May, 8 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


To those that do not know, an Asheville staple restaurant has been nominated for the best breakfast in America. Sunny Point Cafe in West Asheville was one of only five breakfast spots in America to be considered by Good Morning America for this prestigious recognition. Even if they are not your favorite Asheville breakfast spot, they are bringing attention to our lovely town. More info on when and how to vote here.


New Arrivals!


WINE


Eric Soloman Selections Novellum Chardonnay– Côtes Catalanes Chardonnay aged 3 months on Viognier lees.


Montes Alpha Chardonnay– “WORLD CHAMPION CHARDONNAY” by SLOW FOOD of Italy


Kim Crawford Pinot Grigio


Falcor Sierra Foothills Malbec


Broadbent Vinho Verde


Hyatt Vineyards Rattesnake Hills Cabernet– Single vineyard Washington State Cab for $10.99!


BEER


Dogfish Head Immort Ale– maple syrup from Red Brook Farm, peat-smoked barley, juniper berries, and vanilla. 11% abv


Stone Brewing Russian Imperial Stout– 100 point beer. Limited


Ommegang Tripel Perfection


Founders Centennial IPA


Clipper City Heavy Seas Loose Cannon IPA


Flying Dog Raging B**tch Triple 98 points


Pure Chilean La Martina EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL– La Martina single varietal Arbequina olive oil is smooth and gentle, apt for use with all types of food due to its balance and harmony. It presents a medium fruitiness, of pleasant and fresh vegetal aroma, with green apple and almond notes. With a low bitterness and low short spice, it does not linger on the tongue. 500ml & 250ml


Tasting:


Casa Julia Sauvignon Blanc– Casablanca Valley, Chile. Casa Julia’s focus is on “terruno” (terroir), the microclimate of each appellation and sustainable, intelligent agriculture. Casa Julia Estate wines are produced with this in mind. They start and end elevage with high quality fruit from specific vineyards and then with absolute minimal handling & fermentation. Leaving wines that reflect and protect their individual character. This wine shows the richness and bountiful aromatics we’ve come to expect from the Casablanca Valley. Honeysuckle yellow in the glass with gleams of pale green. No oak with crisp pure fruit, light residual sugar and a balance of flavor reside in this old vine cuvee. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


La Craie Vouvray– Hillside vineyards in the Vouvray AOC deep in the heart of the Loire. 100% Chenin Blanc from JD Headrick on of our favorite local importers. “Chenin Blanc is one of the most noble white wine varietals planted in France, rivaling Riesling for its complexity, agebility, and depth of soul. One of the things that I have always loved about Chenin…..its flexibility…. fully ripe, and grown on the limestone slopes of Vouvray….fresh peaches and plums, and finishing crisp and high.” Jon David Headrick. Shelf $15.99 Tasting $14.39


Jean Merieau Les Hexagonales Gamay– Touraine, Loire Valley France. Jean-Francios is one of the rising stars of the Loire. Taking an organic approach to his farming aides in the desire for the soil to shine, and to keep the land healthy for generations to come. While Beaujolais is the official home of Gamay, the Loire has some old vine plots that vinify to produce wines of infinite flavor and precision. Personally we believe that Gamay is a misunderstood delight, that rarely sees the recognition that it deserves. The Hexagonales is a perfect summer red, light on its toes but with enough power to find a home on most Pinot drinkers tongues. Organically produced. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Rabbit Ridge Le Lapin Petite Sirah– Paso Robles, CA. Rabbit Ridge is one of California’s premier value wine producers. Unlike other “value” producers they almost always deliver flavor packed bottlings that seem unreal for the money. This new line of wines Le Lapin (the rabbit) are seriously delicious. We will be bringing the Zinfandel later on, but opted for the Petite Sirah for starts. Inky black in the glass, almost intimidating in its teeth staining swirls. Baked blackberries, blueberries and tar. Someone please fire up the grill….fast. Interesting side note, Petite Sirah is almost never small or petite in its structure of texture. Nor it is related to Syrah, its grapes are smaller, so when farmers found it growing in their fields of Syrah they coined the name Petite(small) Sirah. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


We hope to see you here!


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday May, 15 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Next Friday May 21st it will be Pouring Cats & Dogs here at the shop. We are quite honored to host Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, and an evening tasting of some wonderful wines, live music, food by Frankie Bones, silent auction and more. Cost will be $15 at the door, all proceeds benefit Brother Wolf. Evening begins at 5:30PM & ends at 8:00PM. Information link.


Tasting Wine:





Broadbent Vinho Verde– 50% Loureiro, 40% Trajadura and 10% Pedernã [aka Arinto]. Vinho Verde, the most popular white wine from Portugal, is a deliciously refreshing, light wine with gentle spritz. “Verde”, meaning “green” refers to the hints of lime color. Broadbent Vinho Verde is the only Vinho Verde imported on a refrigerated container. The result is an excellent example of Vinho Verde that is as fresh as the day it was bottled. An ideal warm weather wine, excellent for lunch and picnics, this wine is equally as lovely as an evening aperitif. It makes a brilliant pairing with any fish, shell fish and poultry. “Is the world’s greatest pairing for a Caesar salad” according to wine writer Jordan MacKay. The label above was painted by Alice, the niece, of Bartholomew Broadbent, when she was four. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Viña Montes Classic Series Chardonnay– Curico Valley, Chile. Viña Montes proudly hosted the inaugural activities of the 2010 World’s Best Sommelier Competition – held in Santiago from April 12-15th. Even after one of the worst earthquakes to hit Chile in decades the team welcomed 180 top sommeliers from around the world to their winery, the first Feng Shui winery in Chile. Montes strives to protect the environments integrity by adopting a sustainable winegrowing initiative. The Chardonnay is fermented 60 % in casks, 40 % in stainless steel with 50 % malolactic fermentation. Pale gold in color with shades of green, its aroma blends butter hints of vanilla and tropical fruits (banana). A fresh wine, fruity, with good body and balance, creamy and complex in mid palate, nice and elegant finish. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Tezza Veneto Rosso 1L– Appalachian Vintner sells almost every wine made at Tezza. From their Amarone to the fresh and fruity Valpolicella, the wines of the Tezza Family (cousins Flavio, Vanio and Federico) are honest pure efforts from the star of the North-eastern reaches of Italy, the Veneto. Their wines, designated simply Rosso (Red) and Bianco (White) are made for the local farmers and restaurants from sustainably farmed land in the Valpantena Valley (“valley of the gods”) a rocky-soiled niche between Lake Garda and the Alps, outside the city of Verona (home of the annual Vinitaly wine show). Most of these wines never make it out of the area. The Tezza Rosso is mostly Corvina, a thick-skinned red grape that is the main component of Valpolicello and Bardolino, with the addition of Rondinella, Corvinone and a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon. Amazing value in a liter bottle, offering just a little extra on a warm summer day. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


Viña Montes Classic Series Cabernet Sauvignon– Colchagua Valley, Chile. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, both sourced from the well known Colchagua valley. The wine has been aged for six months in new and used French oak. Deep ruby red color, the nose is packed with layers of caramel, cinnamon, candy and hints of mint, with a prevalence of mature red fruit over earthy oak. A spicy, full-flavored wine, with good body, fruit and firm friendly tannins. The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Classic Limited Release is enhanced by blending 30% of Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon on its 2008 vintage thus producing a more complex and higher quality wine. Recommended to be decanted for 30 minutes. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Tasting Beer:


As venerable as the screw cap to wine, beer in a can has harbored feelings of inadequacy for years. That has all changed due to a wealth of seriously delicious craft brews packaged in cans. This form of packaging actually offers a much more environmentally friendly shipping package, due to its lighter weight and a better container for the beer itself. These little grenades of flavor are perfect for your next excursion to the trail, beach or lake. Whatever you choose just remember: Pack it in-Pack it out.


Ska Brewing Hoperandi I.P.A.– Durango, CO. A beautiful hoppy beer showing a copper amber color with citrus & pine, caramel malts grapefruit and a hoppy floral note. 6 pk cans


Brooklyn Lager– To start we can not say enough about this beer. To know that it is a style lost after the onset of Prohibition is enough to hoard it in quantity, and drink it with the best of people. Made in the style of the great lagers of Vienna, Austria. This is the style that brought Budweiser to prominence over 100 years ago. Brooklyn Lager is crisp yet full, clean but rich, malty & hoppy yet just enough to quench the thirst of hours in the toil of work. Honestly this is a beer that blurs the lines of what craft beer was and what craft beer is, Enjoy. 6 pk cans


Thanks for joining us on our journey of fine libation.


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday May, 22 2010 1PM-3PM & 4PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Tomorrow Friday May 21st it will be Pouring Cats & Dogs here at the shop. We are quite honored to host Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, and an evening tasting of some wonderful wines, live music, food by Frankie Bones, silent auction and more. Cost will be $15 at the door, all proceeds benefit Brother Wolf. Evening begins at 5:30PM & ends at 8:00PM. Information link. Wine we be tasting- link.


New Arrivals_


Bodegas Nieto de Senetiner Cabernet Reserva


Gérard Bertrand Réserve spéciale Pinot Noir


Gérard Bertrand Réserve spéciale Viognier


Altesino Rosso di Altesino– 80% Sangiovese di Montalcino(Brunello) clone. Super value from one of Italys top Brunello producers.


Domaine Claude Branger Le Fils des Gras Moutons Muscadet Sèvre et Maine– This wine rests on its lees for six to seven months before bottling and comes from 35+ year old vines. THE wine for oysters.


Tenuta Sant’ Antonio Fontana Soave


Rabbit Ridge Le Lapin Zinfandel


Colterenzio Weissburgunder Pinot Bianco– Northern Italian Pinot Blanc!


Beer:


Stone Brewing Ruination IPA– 100 point


Stone Brewing India Pale Ale– 100 point


Pisgah Brewing Vortex I– Triple Pale Ale


Pisgah Brewing Solstice– Belgian Strong Blond


Coronado Brewing Idiot IPA


Brouwerij De Dochter Van De Korenaar Courage Strong Wheat Ale! How cool is that, a recent pint at the Thirsty Monk showed aromas of mushroom, milk chocolate and dates. 12 percent Imports.


Tasting Wine:


Domaine Alain Lalanne Vin de Pays de Gascogne– Southwest France. The 50-hectare Domaine Alain Lalanne is in the village of Ramouzens in the eastern portion of Bas-Armagnac, a region of sloping green hills, an oceanic climate, and sandy soils. Alain Lalanne’s father (and his grandfather and great-grandfather) only made wine in order to distill it into Armagnac, but his retirement and Alain’s assumption of responsibilities in 1970 coincided with a progressive and lasting decline in the global market for Armagnac. Consequently, Alain and the other growers in the region faced the need to sell the region’s white wine as white wine. To accomplish this, they imported a grape variety, the Gros Manseng, from the neighboring historic Appellation of Jurançon in order to balance the Ugni Blanc and Colombard traditionally grown in Gascogne. In the case of his Côtes de Gascogne blanc that means: Ugni Blanc, traditional to the region, picked late, from strong or gravelly soils to produce pale wines with delicate aromas that marry well with Colombard; Colombard, the oldest and noblest variety in the region, which produces wines with aromatic power and a roundness that is nicely balanced by the freshness of Ugni Blanc; and Gros Manseng, a late ripener which does best in cooler and lighter soils. Sustainable. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


Domaine Lafage Novellum Chardonnay– 100% Chardonnay from the Côtes Catalanes, the hills around French Catalonia nestled in the Languedoc. The Languedoc-Roussillon is on France’s Mediterranean coast. It forms an arc beginning west of the Rhône that spans to the Spanish border. France’s first vineyards were planted here in what is now Narbonne. The Vine de Pays des Côtes Catalan covers an area rich in Spanish influence – Catalonia being just across the Pyrenees Novellum is a custom cuvee of Chardonnay grown and made by Jean Marc and Eliane Lafage for Eric Solomon. Novellum is sourced from 30 year old vines, 30% of the juice is fermented in new Burgundian barrels with the balance in stainless steel. In an effort to add to the depth of flavors the wine is aged for 3 months on VIOGNIER lees. It shows subtle aromas of white peach, toasted almond, hazelnut, flowers and fine herbs. The palate offers an uncanny balance of leesy creaminess with a touch of minerals. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


La Villa Pinot Noir– Veneto, Italy. This Pinot is fuller than most with a wonderful depth of fruit. Little is know of the vineyard sourcing or the producer. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Hyatt Vineyards Rattlesnake Hills Cab– 92.87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5.04% Merlot 2.09% Syrah from Washington’s newest AVA, Rattlesnake Hills. Hyatt Vineyards was established by Leland and Lynda Hyatt in 1983. Evolving from a modest Estate vineyard surrounding the Winery, Hyatt Vineyards has grown to 180 acres in four separate sites all within 3 miles of the original plantings. In Spring of 2006, the very select micro-climate of the Northern part of the Yakima Valley became its own American Viticultural Appellation. Hyatt and Roza Ridge are in the center of this small and very appropriate new Appellation, Rattlesnake Hills, which enjoys better heat-units than the rest of the Valley – ensuring ripening – with elevations ranging from 700 – 1200 feet above sea level. This Cab shows some wonderful structure for such an inexpensive wine. Leather and spice spill over the rim with a perfume of sweet black fruit filling the gaps. The palate is dry, mildly tannic and lush with the same spice and fruit from the aromas. New world wine with a firm foot in the old way. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


Hope that you all can find some time to visit us soon! Thanks for taking the time.


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday May, 29 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


BEER CITY U.S.A! Again! Wow what an honor to be a part of this area’s craft beer movement. Beer for thought: there were 4,131 breweries in the United States prior to 1910. After the repeal of prohibition there were 31. In 1940 the number had grown to 498 but by 1980 that number had been muted to only 82, in part by a for bland macro brewed adjunct lagers, or so we thought. Today the United States has more than 1500 breweries, more than ANY country in the world. So here’s to beer- all North Carolina breweries are 10% off on Saturday and enjoy a free pint of Pisgah Pale with every case of beer purchased. Cheers!


We must offer a heartfelt & honorable extension of our gratitude to all of those that have lost their lives & those that are currently fighting in the numerous American conflicts around the world. Regardless of our opinion on the topic of war Appalachian Vintner & its partners will remember and keep all of you close to our hearts on this Memorial Day.





Wine Tasting:


Domaine Claude Branger Le Fils des Gras Moutons Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie– 100% Melon de Bourgogne, from the far Northwestern portion of France, near the mouth of the Loire River. This area is almost dominated by the eb & flow of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Claude Branger makes this wine with his son Sebastien. The land is farmed without chemical fertilizers and are harvested by hand. Le Fils des Gras Moutons is the domaine’s base wine, and it’s one of the truly great buys here at the store. The wine comes from 26 acres of vines in Branger’s earlier maturing plots. The soil runs from 10 to 16 inches deep and the granite bedrock is metamorphic gneiss full of mica and quartz. These vines average 35+ years of age. The wine rests on its lees for six to seven months before bottling, and a productive year will see 5,800 cases made. The bouquet is akin to fresh lemon curd with crushed sea salt. The palate is fresh and racy with a creamy leesy texture, showing a balance between fruit, acid & an amazingly ocean-like spray of flavors. If the taste of the sea is not enough, try these with something from the sea, namely oysters on the half shell or our favorite Charleston style steamed over an open flame. Shelf $12.99 Tasting $11.69


Artadi Artazuri Rosé– 100% Garnacha. Faithful to Navarra’s tradition, this rosé is made by means of the accepted system of drawing juice from the must, based on the use of gravity after a short period of maceration saignée. Youth, fruitiness and freshness are the most remarkable features of this wine. Farming Practice: Sustainable. Age of Vines: 10-15 year old vines from vineyards that were a “nearly lost inheritance,” and through hard and labor intensive viticulture, Artadi has revived these tired plots and transformed them from the forgotten to the avant-garde. Perfect from all of your Memorial day foods, from BBQ to potato salad. Shelf $8.99 1 day Special $6.99!


Au Bon Climat La Bauge Au-Dessus Pinot Noir– 100% Pinot Noir. Jim Clendenen (owner ABC) is by far one of the most animated winemakers in California and in our estimation has one of the best hands in regards to Pinot Noir. Full and rich with flavors of plums and warm spice, this Pinot is always a crowd pleaser. The fruit is all Dijon clones from Block Two of the famed Bien Nacido Vineyard. This is classic Santa Barbara Pinot with a price/quality ratio that’s truly hard to beat. Has the usual Bien Nacido hard spice of black pepper, clove, and juniper, this is a serious Pinot Noir. La Bauge au Dessus translates into “the decadent party up above” these vineyards are the highest planting of Pinot Noir at Bien Nacido Vineyard. Samples will be poured from a 375ml half bottle and thus will be very limited. 375 ml Shelf $21.99 Memorial Day Special $18.69


Rabbit Ridge Le Lapin Zinfandel– Paso Robles, California. Rabbit Ridge is one of California’s premier value wine producers. Unlike other “value” producers they almost always deliver flavor packed bottlings that seem unreal for the money. This new line of wines Le Lapin (the rabbit) are seriously delicious. While there is little information released from the winery about the sourcing for this Zin, we have a funny feeling that it at least some of the juice is sourced from the Texas Road Vineyard. This is the estate plot that is on the Rabbit Ridge property. Regardless we find it quite delectable, with dried dark fruit & characteristic blackberry jam, smeared in all the nooks and crannies. Perhaps the best attribute of our non-vintage little gem here is the cashmere like texture. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Please note that the tasting will not start until 3PM this Saturday. We hope to see you all soon and please have a safe and happy holiday.


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday June, 5 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Our sincere congratulations to the three couples that allowed Appalachian Vintner to assist in the wine selections for their wedding days. We wish you only the best of tomorrows in your journey together.


It seems that our free Saturday tastings have been featured along side some really great festivals and this Saturday is no different. Beginning at 12pm the first ever Beer City Festival will open its gates. This will also be the first event at the new Roger McQuire Park, a beautiful area between Pack Monument and the court house. The park looks stellar with its art laden decor complete with a music stage and fountains. We will not be directly involved this year but we do know many of the musicians that will be performing and they are very talented. Not to disappoint but our free tasting will be slightly abbreviated this week.


New Arrivals!


Domain de Couron Coteau L’Ardeche Rosé– Could be the best Rosé of the season.


The Duck-Rabbit Rabid Duck Russian Imperial Stout– Very limited


BrewDog 5 A.M. Saint ESB– Scotland, the first 12 oz packadging from this brewery.


Brouwerij De Musketiers Troubadour Magma– Ursel, Belgium. Only 5 cases of this Belgian/American Hybrid Imperial IPA made it to NC. Appalachian Vintner received two. 9% ABV & 90 IBUs! Singles & 4 packs


Wine Tasting:


Colterenzio Schreckbichl Weißburgunder Turner– 100% Pinot Blanc from old pergola trained vines in Hillside vineyards around the Girlan-Eppan area at the base of the Alps of Northern Italy at altitudes between 500 and 650 feet. These sites are specially selected for their suitability for growing intense and distinctive Pinot Blanc. Soils are gravelly with high calcium carbonate content aiding to the drainage of the vines roots. Yellow straw color with green edges. The aromas are bright and show apple, pear and honey. The full palate is nutty and round with melon and star fruit, mirroring the Alsatian Pinot Blancs of Northeastern France, also at the base of the Alps. Shelf $15.99 Tasting $14.39


The House of Independent Producers La Bourgeoisie Destiny Ridge Vineyard Merlot– 100% single vineyard Merlot from the banks of the Columbia River in Washington’s famed Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Very little is available in the way of information regarding the production of this wine, and that is how the production staff likes it. Check out this mission statement: “To capture terroir in its most raw form and to preserve the integrity of the wine world by rebelling against the 100 point rating system. A wine of Sustainable and Environmentally friendly farming. No Advertising. ScoREVOLuTion, never scored. Produced by Christophe Hedges, of Hedges Family Estates. Superb bottle of Merlot, made in the style of the Right Bank blends of Bordeaux. Shelf $12.99 Tasting $11.69


Thanks and please have a fun & safe weekend.


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday June, 12 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


We love the Asheville restaurant scene and love to promote locally owned spaces. A recent drive down Hendersonville Road reminded us that Chef in Motion, formerly by Mission Hospital, has found a new home. Chef Mo Abreu and his partner Brenda Wienke have done wonders with their space, their menu(and prices) are unbeatable. Pair that with a thoughtful wine list and ample parking and you have a winning combination. They are serving Lunch Monday-Friday & Dinner Monday-Saturday.


The First Annual Brew Off, Asheville’s Home Brew Competition & Tasting will be held on June, 19 2pm-4pm in front of Wedge Brewery in the River Arts District. It will be a great chance to sample some local craft beer and perhaps get an idea for your next batch of brew. Swing by the shop afterward to sample some of Charles’ handmade beer, and our Free Saturday Tasting.


Wine Tasting:


Gérard Bertrand Réserve Spéciale Viognier– Languedoc, France. An acknowledged ambassador of the Mediterranean lifestyle and owner of some of the region’s finest estates, Gerard has crafted his Réserve Spéciale wines to reflect the elegant, fruit intense, and generous style of the area’s finest vineyards. This 100 % Viognier is pale yellow colored with a pale green hue. Intense bouquet of white flowers (acacias, hyacinth, orange tree flowers). Rich and lush with aromas of tropical fruits, dried apricots, hazelnuts and honey. The finish is crisp and lively. Shelf $12.99 Tasting $11.69


Domain de Couron Vin de Pays des Côteaux de l’Ardèche Rosé– 100% Grenache rosé from the tine village of Saint Marcel d’ Ardeche, 45 miles Northwest of Avignon. What strikes you first about this stunning little rosé is its hauntingly pale color. Its almost angelic like pink hue is very similar to a antique pink rose, or maybe the cheeks of a plump cherub in a renaissance mural. Peach, strawberries & cream and a seamless texture. Temperature is everything here, if it is chilled to far it will slip into its pale reflection, only to emerge again with the warmth of the ambient air. Try this with crab cakes and a warm sunset on the patio. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89 limited


Gérard Bertrand Réserve Spéciale Pinot Noir– This 100% Pinot Noir comes from the coolest altitude vineyards in the region. With air it reveals ripe cherry fruit and crushed red berries, notes of nutmeg and brown spice with silky tannin. A style characterized by its warmer growing weather, lush with juicy ample fruit. Shelf $12.99 Tasting $11.69


Martin Codax ERGO Rioja– 100% Tempranillo – The most important red wine varietal for both everyday and world-class Spanish wines. Frequently, the wines made from Tempranillo have aromas of black cherry fruit as well as leather and earthy qualities. Some studies have shown that this varietal is a relative of Pinot Noir. The two most famous areas for great Tempranillo based wines are the Ribera del Duero and the Rioja. In the Duero, the wines are commonly blended with Cabernet and/or Merlot. While in the Rioja it is more frequently blended with Garnacha. Always a favorite here at the store, ERGO offers a less dry style of Rioja, enjoyable on its own or with anything from grilled veggies to lamb shank. Shelf $11.99 Tasting 15% off $10.19


We are grateful for your support and hope you can stop by the store soon.


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday June, 18 2010 3PM-7PM www.appalachianvintner.com


On the way to the shop this morning I spotted a dilapidate clear stained glass window on the side of the road. Measuring around 7′ x 2′ it was hard to miss. Not sure what grabbed me about this piece, perhaps it was the age of the neighboring homes, regardless it reminded me of the things that we happen by on our daily lives. The everyday events that usually whirl by us without even a thought. A recent flip through the pages of the Mountain Express revealed a story that oddly seemed to call to me the same way as this broken window. The story was about the North Carolina Bread Flour Project. With out delving to far into the story (see link at right for full story) how lucky we are to have the opportunity to recognize a void, and fill it with something meaningful, thoughtful, even powerful. True creative beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, but only when our eyes & hearts are fully open. Enjoy.


Appalachian Vintner will be closed on Monday, June 21 2010 in honor of Father’s Day. We will resume our normal operating hours on Tuesday, June 22 we apologize in advance for any inconveniences. On that note, Happy Father’s Day to all of the Dads out there!


The Yvon Mau presale Bordeaux’s are here! We will be sampling a portion of them this Saturday. These wines are very limited and unfortunately once they are gone, they will not return until next spring. Get your hands on some while they last.





New Arrivals:


Fresh Dynamite Roasting Company coffee– We sell every flavor they roast, available in whole bean or burr-ground 1Lb bags, bulk orders available. Org. & Fair Trade


Waterbrook Melange Noir 3L– massive wax capped 3L bottle for $59.99!!!


Tezza Valpolicella Ripasso “Ma Roat”– unoaked version of their deliciously rich Ripasso.


2004 & 2005 Chateau Barrail Chevrol Fronsac Rouge


Seigneurs de Monbazillac– botrytis late harvest, honeyed indulgence- blue cheese- foie gras….. 375 ml


Hoppin Frog Mean Manalishi Double I.P.A


Moylan’s Old Blarney Barleywine


Stoudts Brewing Gold Helles Style Lager


Stoudts Brewing Heifer-in-Wheat Hefeweizen


Clipper City Heavy Seas 2010 Below Decks Aged in Cabernet Barrels– Extremely limited & at $8.99 for a 22oz bottle it won’t last long.





Tasting:


Seigneurs de Bergerac Blanc– 50% Sauvignon, 10% Muscadelle, 40% Semillon from Bergerac, East of Bordeaux along the Dordogne river in the Southwest of France. This nervous little wine shows, white peach, bananna, lemon custard and melon. It has a mild acidity, gorgeuous minerality and a long round finish. Perfect for delicate fish dishes, such as poached dover sole. 5 cases. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


Beaulieu Vineyards Signet Collection Chardonnay– 100% barrel aged Chardonnay from the North Coast of California. Sourced from prestigious vineyards in Sonoma, Mendocino and Napa Valley. Rich lush tropical fruit, mild buttery oak and a smooth mouth coating finish. Shelf $11.99 Customer appreciation $8.99!!


Seigneurs de Bergerac Rouge– 45% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc also from Bergerac, East of Bordeaux along the Dordogne river in the Southwest of France. Medium bodied, aromatically superior to most of the reds we’ve tried from this area, especially from this vintage. Starting out its bouquet reveals, black currant & tar moving into black cherry spice further down in the glass. The palate is dry, but soft holding mild tannin and a very pleasant texture. 5 cases. Shelf $9.99 Tasting $8.99


Altovinum Evodia old vine Garnacha– 100% Grenache from 90-120 year old vines in the high altitude village of Atea with-in the D.O. Calatayud. These vineyards were ferreted out by the amazingly talented team behind Altovinum – Eric Solomon (European Cellars, Charlotte NC), Jean Marc Lafage and Yolanda Diaz. Yolanda Diaz, a native of Calatayud, has an intimate knowledge of the area and its terroir – her relationships in the region are an invaluable asset to the project. Meaning that she knows the families caring for these ancient vines. Appalachian Vintner has sold record numbers of this wine, it is by far one of our strongest shelf placements and to boot we’ve never sampled it at one of our tastings! Grown almost exclusively on schist slate based soils at elevations above 2500 feet, its depth of flavor is toe curling. The vines from which it is pulled are all “head trained” so that they literally grow directly from the ground, without trellising, supported only by their own strength. While this method reduces cluster formation, it allows the small amount of fruit that does form to create ultra concentrated grapes. Can’t say enough about the value that this sustainably farmed wine offers, if you come for one wine let it be this one. Shelf $9.99 Because we are grateful for your support $8.49


Thank you and we hope to see each and everyone of you soon.


Geoff & Charles.


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday June, 26 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Independence Day SALE! In celebration of our succession from the Kingdom of Great Britain, we are offering a store wide sale on all products from the domestic market June 28 – July 3. 10% off all six packs & 15% off cases of beer. 10% off bottles & 20% off cases of wine. Please note that this sale refers to beer & wine produced in the United States only. Some restrictions apply, special orders are available (orders must be paid in full by the close of business on Friday July 2, does NOT apply to previous ordered products), sale excludes limited production beer & older vintages of wine.


We are very honored to announce that James Daniel III will be suppling us with a number of new paintings. These will range in size and style, stop by for a viewing.





New Arrivals


Yvon Mau Merlot


Commanderie de Peyrassol La Croix Peyrassol Provence Rouge


Raats Family Wines Old Vine Chenin Blanc– This is South African soil in a bottle.


Aecht Schlenkerla Helles Lager


Stone Brewing/Victory Brewing/Dogfish Head collaboration Saison du Buff– Parsley, Sage, Rosemary & Thyme. Herbaceousness & madness bottled for your drinking pleasure. Limited.


Free Saturday Tasting:


Shadow Mountain Vineyards Pinot Gris– 100% Pinot Gris from property on the East slope of the Oregon Coast Range, looking out toward the Coburg Hills. The vineyards are all Salmon Safe and LIVE certified (LIVE uses international standards of sustainable viticultural and enological practices in both wine-grape and wine production.) The Cooper family has been suppling the Pacific Northwest with some of the healthiest Christmas Trees for decades. After their son Jonathon graduated from OSU, with a degree in agriculture they located a portion of land on their farm that was perfect for the cultivation of grapevines (not so much for Xmas trees!). The grow only Pinot Noir & Pinot Gris, two of the most well known variates in Oregon. Coconut, citrus, apple & pear dominate the nose. The palate is fresh and full with good acid, and a spicy finish. Shelf $15.99 Tasting $14.39


Vecchia Torre Leverano Rosato– Leverano Italy. 80% Negroamaro, 20% Malvasia Nera. Gianni Cucci wants you to try the new vintage of Leverano Rosato. We both think you’ll be pleasantly surprised, and I want Gianni to remain happy. He is a friendly, very polite, diminutive wine broker from Lecce, a town midway down the heel of Puglia (and just demoted to Seria B, another reason to want good things for Gianni). This is the best vintage of Leverano Rosato to date – the winemaker at the Cantine Sociale Leverano, Ennio Cagnazzo, is the hardest-working man in wine, responsible for the production of 2 million bottles of wine annually, which are divided along four quality tiers and among many grape varietals. Leverano is the top tier, made of Puglia’s native workhorse grape Negro Amaro, and it is a true value. Tasting this makes two days on a plane worthwhile, and means many of you will be planning an Apulian vacation soon. Drink it with grilled sardines and squid-ink pasta. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Castle Rock California Cuvée Pinot Noir– Various vineyards in California. Castle Rock Pinot Noir is produced from grapes grown in a carefully selected group of California vineyards, at which the climate and soil conditions provide excellent growing conditions for this Burgundian varietal. The wine is elegant and medium-bodied, offering aromas of cherry, tea and herbal spice. On the palate it is smooth with a silky texture and mild tannins, giving flavors of black cherry, plum and spice, and finishing long and harmoniously, This versatile food wine pairs well with lamb, veal, salmon and light pasta dishes. Winemaker  August Briggs. Shelf $11.99     Tasting $10.79


Tezza Valpolicella Ripasso Ma Roat– Vento, Italy. Flavio, Vanio & Frederico are the third generation to farm these vines. Their Great Grandfather, Giovanni planted the vineyards in the early 1960’s. Now Frederico tends the vines, Vanio makes the wine & Fredrico develops the winery. The estate has two excellent vineyards. Monte della Fontane sits on the western edge of Valpantena, a valley that runs south from the Alps into the outskirts of Verona. Brolo delle Giare is farther east, and in the Tezza brothers’ estimation it produces their finest fruit. Valpantena is their home, and the brothers pull from a lifetime of knowledge of the valley’s soil and climate when making decisions that affect the ultimate quality of their wine. The Tezzas utilize the high-quality, low-yield indigenous grapes Corvina, Ocelleta, and Croatina (local name for Bonarda). The Guyot system is more labor-intensive than the traditional pergola method, but Vanio believes its greater vine density is necessary to get the flavor and site-specificity he desires. When I first tasted Ma Roat (Red Moon in the local dialect, which is a mix of Italian and Danish) I was immediately reminded of their stellar Rippaso, same velvety texture, same spiced fruit except this is produced without the use of oak. Try it with fresh mushroom risotto. Shelf $13.99 Tasting $12.59


Beer Tasting


Great Divide Brewing Co. Espresso Oak Aged Yeti– Denver, Colorado. This is one of the greatest examples of oak aged Imperial Stouts on the market. The base for this beer is quite tasty itself, add oak chips and a healthy does of coffee and you have the ultimate breakfast beer. Limited samples. 22 oz bottle $9.99


See you here!


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday July, 3 2010 2PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com





Don’t forget to take full advantage of our Independence Day Sale, there are some excellent wines on very deep discounts. This would be perfect time to stock the house for the holiday just around the corner or grab some hard to find gems for the cellar. Only wines from the lower 48.





New Arrivals ~ wine ~


J. Bookwalter Conflict Conner-Lee Vineyard– 95pts Wine Enthusiast ~limited~


J. Bookwalter Foreshadow Cabernet Sauvignon– 94pts Wine Enthusiast ~limited~


Penner-Ash Pinot Noir– San Fransico Chronicle Top Wines 2009


~SPECIAL~


01, 02, 03 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, all three $199 @ $66.33 per bottle! Just because you’re Asheville.


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New Arrivals ~ beer ~


Dogfish Head Sah’Tea


2010 Allagash Victoria Ale– Brewed with 1,000 lbs of Chardonnay & wine yeast


2010 Allagash Victor Ale– 1,000 lbs of Cab Franc grapes.


Terrapin/ De’Proef Collaboration Monstre Rouge Imperial Flanders Red


Duck-Rabbit Dopplebock– Farmville, NC





~ Free Saturday Tasting ~


Kiona Vineyards Chenin Blanc– This varietal is one of the world’s noble grapes, transformed by the soil by which it is grown and by the hands which mold it to fit into any of a dozen styles. Kiona make it into a crisp, clean wine that is immensely easy to enjoy. Mouth watering acidity is accentuated by a touch of frizzante on the finish. This is a perfect hors d’oeuvres wine! This off-dry Chenin Blanc has refreshing aromas of tart green apples and fresh cut straw. Crisp tropical flavors are emphasized when the wine is served chilled. It pairs wonderfully with seafood, Summer porches and fireworks. Bottle $9.89 Part of any case $8.79


Chatham Hill Chardonnay– 100 % Chardonnay, sourced in prime vineyards within the Yadkin Valley. Chatham Hill Winery was established in 1999 as the first winery in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area and the first Urban Winery in North Carolina. This wine won silver at the 2008 Indy International Wine Competition in Indianapolis. The annual event is one of the nation’s largest wine competitions. Lemon-lime custard and apple with a touch of vanilla from brief contact with French oak barrels. Bottle $12.59 Case $10.99


Mary Elke Anderson Valley Pinot Noir– 100 % Pinot Noir, from the single vineyard, Donnelly Creek. The Anderson Valley is located in the rolling hills of the coastal region of Mendocino County, about two hours north of San Francisco. Only fifteen miles long, this beautiful valley is home to a combination of warm sunny days and cool foggy nights & mornings that allow the production of some of California’s top Pinot Noir. Some of these vineyards produce rich, hearty Pinot like those of Pommard in the Northern reaches of Burgundy, France’s crowned jewel of Pinot Noir. The Elkes are primarily growers, who farm Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Merlot, and organic apples. Guest winemakers are hired to make wine from the grapes they farm. Elke Vineyards began more than twenty years ago, and has grown fruit for many, many wineries over the years. They grow fruit for Mumm Napa, Roederer Estate, Radio Coteau, Copain Wine Cellars, Londer Vineyards, Au Bon Climate, Mendocino Wine Company, Far Niente, ICI/La Bas, Franciscan, and Breggo Cellars. The 2007 Mary Elke Pinot Noir is 100% Donnelly Creek vineyard fruit from two clones that reflect the cool climate and soils of the Anderson Valley. In years previous they’ve blended the Donnelly fruit with others, but this year there was enough from the vineyard for their own label. Rich fruit flavors combine with a slight spice element and a slight mid-palate tannin to produce a “bigger” style Pinot Noir that many modern drinkers of Pinot Noir prefer. 91Pts $25.99 or $20.79 case


2010 Pisgah Brewing Company Vortex I– Triple Pale Ale from our good friends at Pisgah Brewing Co, in Black Mountain. Bottle production has slowed due to the onset of the festival season and we have two cases left of this ultra hopped-up Buncombe County Ale. As with every beer from these guys, only 100% Organically grown ingredients are used, resulting in a purity that will haunt you hours after the last sip. 22 oz bottles.


2009 Rogue Double Dead Guy Ale– Rogue is a small revolution, which expresses itself through handcrafted Ales, Porters, Stouts, Lagers and Spirits. It was started in 1988 in Ashland, Oregon along a small stream called Lithia Creek. Over the last 20+ years it has developed into one of the premier craft & spirit brewers in the country. Double Dead Guy is deep amber copper in color. Buttery peanut brittle, orange blossom tea aromas follow through to a rich chewy and fruity full body with nice notes of caramel drizzled dried apricot and roasted grains and spice. Finishes with a long, tangy grilled grapefruit and chocolate fade. Packed in a red painted 750ml bottle it was made to cellar, come see what a year in perfect conditions can do for one of the country’s top American Strong Ales.


Please have wonderfully fun & *safe* holiday weekend! We hope to see each and every one of you soon.





Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday July, 10 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Hopefully everyone had a wonderful Independence Day! Looks like July has gotten off to a swift start, with the first week quickly drawing to a close. There’s a select group of delicious wine & beer for your sampling pleasure at the tasting bar this Saturday, we hope you will find a moment to join us.


Appalachian Vintner would like to invite you to a a fund raising benefit event titled “Hope in the Handwriting” to benefit Helpmate, a domestic violence agency serving Asheville & Buncombe County. The event will be held on Thursday, July 15, 2010 at Laurey’s Catering in downtown Asheville from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Not only is the benefit designed to be a fund raiser, but it is also a “hope-raiser.” The feature of the event will be a project called “Hope Notes,” a display of hundreds of notes of encouragement written by members of the community (which will later be given to the clients at Helpmate who are staying in the shelter and attending support groups). The project will also invite attendees to write their own “hope notes” to be distributed to Helpmate clients. Other elements of the event include: a creative memorial exhibit, educational handouts, a silent auction, door prizes, desserts, coffee, wine, and music from local performers. http://www.hopeinthehandwriting.com/








~SPECIAL~


2005 Landmark Steel Plow Syrah, Organically Farmed Reg $21.99 Sale $18.99


90 pts Wine Spectator


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New Arrivals ~ beer ~


Dogfish Head Sah’Tea


2010 Allagash Victoria Ale– Brewed with 1,000 lbs of Chardonnay & wine yeast


2010 Allagash Victor Ale– 1,000 lbs of Cab Franc grapes.


Terrapin/ De’Proef Collaboration Monstre Rouge Imperial Flanders Red


Duck-Rabbit Dopplebock– Farmville, NC





~ Free Saturday Tasting ~


Terra Andina Entrada Sauvignon Blanc– Mendoza, Argentina. This is a direct import for one of our favorite distributors, The Country Vintner. It is made by the Chilean producer Terra Andina, with a custom label for TCV. It is 100% Sauvignon Blanc, aged exclusively in stainless steel. It shows bright sweet fruit, peaches and nectarine with a touch of wild chive. Good balance of minerality and fruit with a clean finish. Great value for the price. Shelf $6.99 Tasting $6.29 Case $5.94!


2004 Chateau Barrail Chevrol Fronsac– 80% Merlot, 15% Cab Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvingnon. Until quite late in the 19th century, the wines of Fronsac were held in higher regard than those of neighboring Pomerol, which now boasts one of the most sought after wines in all of France, Chateau Petrus. 2004 in Bordeaux turned up wines of a traditional quality, drier by most accounts with the best showing tannins that were well-integrated with the shy fruit. Chateau Barrail’s Fronsac Rouge 2004, showed just that, tannins that are apparent yet not obtrusive, adding a refreshing rush to the earthy, woody fruit. Appalachian Vintner Exclusive. Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.69


2005 Chateau Barrail Chevrol Fronsac– 80% Merlot, 15% Cab Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Same blend, completely different wines. 2005 in Bordeaux the vineyards where subjected to a relatively severe droughtlike summer. In the past this kind of summer weather has produced some of the great vintages of the previous century including 2000, 1990, 1982, 1961, 1959, 1949, 1947 and 1945. While Chateau Barrail Chevrol is not a wine that will see multiple decades of aging potential, it will age for an additional number of years. Keep in mind that in the 19th century wines from Fronsac were better received than Pomerol. The latest bottle opened here at the shop was very promising. With a mere half hour of mildly rigorous decanting the wine began to ooze from the glass with sweet cassis, pencil lead, licorice and black cherry. With an hour plus, the earth came forth with old leather and cedar. The highest portion of the blend is Merlot and when Merlot can ripen slowly with a long dry maturation on the vine, the resulting juice has a texture of silk. This is the wine for heavy sauces, think leg of lamb with demi-glace. 5 cases imported, Appalachian Vintner Exclusive. Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.69


Aecht Schlenkerla Helles Lager– Bramberg, Germany. We mentioned early on that some of our favorite beer styles for the stifling summer heat was cold fermented Pilsners and Lagers. It is hard to deny the refreshing nature of these beers and we do love the fluctuations out there. Some are aromatic and crisp, others are yeasty, cloudy and full. There are defined styles such as Vienna, Pale Lager, Amber Lager, Kölsch etc. This beer falls into the Dortmunder/Helles, the first from Dortmund and the later from Bavaria. What sets the Schlenkerla Helles apart is the fact that it is brewed in the same kettles as their famous Rauch or “smoke” beer. Thus it retains some of the smoked beechwood aromas and flavors. A real interesting example of a classic style.


Greetings neighbors! We are thrilled to continue meeting each of you and the neighboring families in the area. It’s possible that many of you already know about Appalachian Vintner, the wine & beer store behind Biltmore Fitness, City Mac and directly beside I.S.M.


Charles and I are glad you’ve found us and we think it is wonderful to be entrepreneurs in a city that has such a powerful & supportive network of like minded folks. For anyone that has not found us, we are directly across from your world class neighborhood, Kenilworth. Lately, you’ve been an increasingly significant contributor to our success.




Appalachian Vintner is first and foremost a family and locally owned establishment. Geoff lives in Kenilworth, Charles in West Asheville and we pride ourselves on being a family friendly establishment, the profits we raise here stay here in the community.




Here is Just a little of what we offer:




  • 4,000 square foot retail area, showcasing wine & beer from every corner of the world & the domestic market, as well as wine & beer accessories, local art & a sampling of local agriculturally based products.



  • On premise consumption- we have a beautiful tasting bar, local beer on tap and two FREE weekly wine and beer tastings.



  • Interactive Shopping experience- Appalachian Vintner’s wine & beer consultants are well versed in our products & trained to help you find what you want within your budget.



  • Deep volume discounts- having a party or cookout? We offer discounts on full and half cases of wine, kegs & full cases of beer & even deeper discounts on multiple cases. If a case is too much, bring a friend & halve the costs.



  • Special Orders- Don’t see anything on the shelf? We can special order just about anything, let us know what your favorites are, we will track them down. and stock them for you if you prefer.



  • Private Event Space- a 1,000 square foot private room can hold up to fifty people, in addition our entire space has been rented numerous times for events with over 350 people.



  • Weekly email newsletters- keep up to date with all of our happenings from tastings to fundraising events. Sign up here




Thank you, we are grateful for your time. If you have questions, comments or concerns, we value your feedback. Please feel free to call us at 828-505-7500 or visit our website, www.AppalachianVintner.com . We hope to see you soon!








~ Special Offer ~


Kenilworth Residents Association




Please enjoy 10% off your next purchase


or


Buy one get one Pints of Pisgah Pale Ale







Greetings neighbors! We are thrilled to continue meeting each of you and the neighboring families in the area. It’s possible that many of you already know about Appalachian Vintner, the wine & beer store behind Biltmore Fitness, City Mac and directly beside I.S.M.




Charles and I are glad you’ve found us and we think it is wonderful to be entrepreneurs in a city that has such a powerful & supportive network of like minded folks. For anyone that has not found us, we are directly across from your world class neighborhood , Kenilworth. Lately, you’ve been an increasingly significant contributor to our success.


.


Appalachian Vintner is first and foremost a family and locally owned establishment. Geoff lives in Kenilworth, Charles in West Asheville and we pride ourselves on being a family friendly establishment.




Here is Just a little of what we offer:






  • 4,000 square foot retail area, showcasing wine & beer from every corner of the world & the domestic market, as well as wine & beer accessories, local art & a sampling of local agriculturally based products.



  • On premise consumption- we have a beautiful tasting bar, local beer on tap and two FREE weekly wine and beer tastings.



  • Interactive Shopping experience- Appalachian Vintner’s wine & beer consultants are well versed in our products & trained to help you find what you want within your budget.



  • Deep volume discounts- having a party or cookout? We offer discounts on full and half cases of wine and full cases of beer & even deeper discounts on multiple cases. If a case is too much, bring a friend & halve the costs.



  • Special Orders- Don’t see anything on the shelf? We can special order just about anything, let us know what your favorites are, we will track them down. and stock them for you if you prefer.



  • Private Event Space- a 1,000 square foot private room can hold up to fifty people, in addition our entire space has been rented numerous times for events with over 350 people.



  • Weekly email newsletters- keep up to date with all of our happenings from tastings to fundraising events. Sign up here




Thank you, we are grateful for your time. If you have questions, comments or concerns, we value your feedback. Please feel free to call us at 828-505-7500 or visit our website, Appalachian Vintner.com.




~ Special Offer ~


Kenilworth Residents Association


Please enjoy 10% off your next purchase


or


Buy one get one Pints of Pisgah Pale Ale








Appalachian Vintner 2-B Huntsman Place Asheville NC 28803





Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday July, 17 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Just announced! We will be joining forces with Sunny Point Café in West Asheville for a 4 course beer dinner in late August. More info as it becomes available.


We would like to send a reminder about a few of the services that Appalachian Vintner offers:




  • On premise consumption- we have a beautiful tasting bar, local beer on tap and by far the largest by-the-glass program in the city, everything on the shelf, wine or beer is available for consumption here. Drink what you want, cork the bottle and take the rest home!



  • Guaranteed lowest prices in WNC- find it anywhere else for less and we will be the price.



  • Deep volume discounts- having a party or cookout? We offer discounts on full and half cases of wine and full cases of beer & even deeper discounts on multiple cases. If a case is too much, bring a friend & halve the costs.



  • Special Orders- Don’t see anything on the shelf? We can special order just about anything, let us know what your favorites are, we will track them down. and stock them for you if you prefer.



  • Private Event Space- a 1,000 square foot private room can hold up to fifty people, in addition our entire space has been rented numerous times for events with over 350 people.



  • Menu Pairings and more!



New Arrivals ~ beer ~


Sprecher Brewing Company Black Bavarian Lager$2.45 16oz singles & $8.99 4pks


Great Divide Brewing Double Wit– 22 oz btls


Great Divide 16th Anniversary Wood Aged Dbl I.P.A.– 22 oz btls


Sprecher Brewing Bourbon Barrel Aged Dopplebock– 1L waxed capped bottles


~ Free Saturday Tasting ~


Cantine Sacchetto Di Paolo Prosecco Colli Trevigiani 100% Prosecco from from the hills of Treviso in Colli Trevigiani I.G.T. The Veneto extends from the Alps to the Adriatic coast and includes the Italian slopes of the eastern Alps and almost all of the underlying pre-Alpine belt with the entire Veneto plain as far as the river Isonzo. The climate changes from the Alpine to Mediterranean as one descends from the mountain areas to the plain and the coast. This Prosecco is made using natural fermentation, according to the Charmat method in large vats. It is also Frizzante(mildly sparkling) as opposed to Spumante(fully sparkling). This pleasant effervescence is absolutely quenching on a steamy evening. Aromatically this is similar to a honeysuckle vine in full bloom. Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.49


Sant’Antonio Fontana Soave– Garganega 90% – Trebbiano Soave 5% – Chardonnay 5% from 20 year old vines, aged on the lees. The four Castagnedi Brothers (Tiziano, Armando, Paolo & Massimo) acquired 30 hectares in 1989 and the estates first wines as Tenuta Sant’Antonio came in 1995. All four brothers are involved in the project, with extensive experience managing their father’s vineyards as well as consulting for properties throughout Italy. Tenuta Sant’Antonio’s hillside vineyards are located among the Mezzane, Lavagno, and San Martino Buon Albergo villages at an average altitude of 350 meters. Meticulous attention to the vineyards in vine density (Guyot trained at 7-8,000 vine per hectare), hand harvesting, and low yields provide fruit of exceptional quality and thus need minimal “intervention” during wine-making. This wine is pale straw in the glass reflecting hints of green. Apple, elder flower, pear and wet stone on the nose. The palate is dense and off dry, with the typical notes of almond, a must with the wines of Soave. Single vineyard. Shelf $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Terre Di Sole Sangiovese– 100% Sangiovese from Pulgia with-in the ancient city of Daunia in the upper heel of the Italian boot. This wine is one of the importer Nicola Biscardo’s personal wines. The wine was previously sourced on the island of Sicily. Slightly cooler, Daunia is perfect for the cultivation of Sangiovese. This wine shows bright and intensly fruity aromas of cherry & plum lifted by a earthy tobacco note. The palate is medium weight and smooth. The finish is long with a balanced acidity. Great wine for foods of all kinds. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


G.D. Vajra Langhe Rosso– Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo blend with 5% Pinot Noir and 2% Freisa from estate vineyards in the Piedmonte at the far Northeast of Italy. The Vajra family are first and foremost stewards of the lost ways of winegrowing, their estate was founded in 1972. Their techniques are genuine and clearly about letting the grapes speak for themselves. Multiple sorting are conducted by hand, starting in the vineyard and lastly in the winery itself. These hands-on methods allow a winemaker to shy away from the addition of harsh adjuncts, that some larger production wineries use. This rosso is their “house” red, the wine that they most often open with meals, hence it must be a deeply satisfying bottling. Shelf $14.99 Tasting $13.49


Thank you for taking the time. Please forward to any and all interested parties. Appalachian Vintner is grateful for feedback in any form, shoot us an email and tell us all about your experiences. [email protected]





Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday July, 24 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


The annual Belle Chere Festival is here again. This annual event always reminds us that the year has rounded its middle point and the holidays are just around the corner. Just a reminder, we WILL be open for our normal business hours this weekend.


Our good friend, Suzie Phillips had an outstanding write up in the WNC magazine this month. Suzie is a master in the art of the cuisine of Lebanon, a country that we had exposure to very early in our lives. Her muse was born of a close relationship to her mother and a deep rooted desire and longing for the place of her birth. Read more on her plight here.


Another gracious and talented lady, Amy Taylor has opened the doors of her long awaited shop, Kitsch. The warm and cozy store front is located in West Asheville at 742 Haywood Rd. Kitsch will cater to all of your arts & craft needs. From gorgeous fabric to sewing needles and classes, Kitsch has got you covered.


The beer dinner with Sunny Point Café has been scheduled for August 24th and will feature the craft beer from one of North Carolina’s oldest beer hubs, Olde Hickory Brewery. The evening’s farm to table menu will feature selections, by Michelle Best and will be mostly crafted from the lush garden thriving behind Sunny Points’ brilliantly styled West Asheville location. Stay tuned for more info.



New Arrivals ~ wine ~


Vecchia Torre Vermentino


Tenuta Canale Chianti Classico Reserva– Single vineyard 2,000 case production. This is the Chianti you’ve been waiting for, affordable and amazingly delicious. 25 cases imported. We highly recommend special ordering this one by the case while it lasts.$16.99


New Arrival ~


Sprecher Brewing Company’s Handcrafted Soda. We have Root beer, Ginger Ale and Puma Kola, all flavors come in 4 packs and are in 16oz bottles. $4.99


~ Free Saturday Tasting ~


Starry Night Winery Russian River Valley Chardonnay– Barrel fermented Chardonnay. National retail $18, AV’s price $11.99 Tasting $10.79


Château de la Durandière Saumur Vieilles Vignes– Saumur is Asheville’s sister city in France. This old vine Cab Franc is an exceptional example of the cool climate grip Cab Franc can produce. The older vines produce a much more concentrated style and a pleasantly smooth texture. Shelf $13.99 Tasting $12.59


Panarroz Jumilla– 60% Monastrell, 25% Garnacha, 15% Syrah. This youthful, unoaked red offers plenty of deeply flavored red fruits and black pepper spice from the addition of Syrah. It is the perfect wine for all of your culinary exploits and marries well with the heat of the summer. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


All the best for a safe and happy Belle Chere weekend.


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday July, 31 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


Hopefully everyone had an amazing weekend, regardless of where you hung your hat. The coming weeks are going to be busy busy here at the shop. We have scheduled numerous events to use the massive space that we manage.


Tomorrow, Friday July 30th we are welcoming the families of Drew Resinger and Katie McConnville for a celebration of their union. The event will be hosted in our main showroom, however Appalachian Vintner will be open for our regular business hours. If you do arrive during the event please find Charles or I and we will be more than happy to assist. Thank you in advance for your understanding.


Need a space for your next gathering? Appalachian Vintner offers full service parties here at the shop. Ask us about our multiple course tastings on your next visit, or grab some friends a put your own theme together we’d be more than happy to host any group, big or small!


New Arrivals ~ wine ~


Nugan Estate Vision Shiraz– Riverina, Australia.


Nugan Estate Vision Chardonnay– Riverina, Australia.


Bodegas Breton Loriñon Rioja


~ Free Saturday Tasting ~


Scott Family Group Ponga Sauvingnon Blanc– Marlborough, New Zealand. The iconic Silver Fern of New Zealand is called “Ponga” by the country’s indigenous Maori people. The fern’s silvery-white fronds exude a freshness and vibrancy that characterize this country’s beautiful and diverse landscape. Ponga comes from select vineyards in Marlborough, New Zealand’s most celebrated wine region. The free-draining, alluvial loams over gravelly subsoils provide ideal growing conditions and together with abundant sunshine, cool nights and a long growing season, help build and maintain the vibrant and zesty fruit flavors for which Marlborough’s Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are world famous. This wine is bright, contemporary and fruit-driven, offering exceptional value for money. Ponga wines are produced by the Scott Family Group, a family owned and operated winery located right in the heart of Blenheim’s wine growing region in Marlborough. The Group was founded in 1990 although the family’s history in wine growing began in 1975 when they planted their first vineyard as contract growers. The Scott Family Group is a truly family business – with Josh Scott as winemaker and sister Sara, with a winemaking and viticultural diploma and local and international winemaking experience, taking up the position of viticulturist. All vines are sustainably farmed. Shelf $10.99 Tasting $9.89


Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvingnon Rosé– Inland Coast, South Africa. Mulderbosch is and has always been one of the greatest wineries in South Africa. Their dedication to maintaining the environmental health of the place they call home (25% of the Mulderbosch property has been dedicated to a conservancy, ensuring the preservation of indigenous vegetation and wildlife) has engendered them great respect amongst the local peoples as well as the wine world. This rosé is another wonderful example of their feats. It is hand harvested from 10-20 year old bush vines and crushed directly into stainless steel tanks. After it is inoculated with yeast, the wine is slowly racked and allowed to age for a period on its fine lees. The resulting wine is sexy and sophisticated its elegance. Crisp notes of strawberry and pomegranate leap from the glass. On the palate it is balanced with notes of cherry, flowers with green edges of herbs de provence. Excellent with almost anything but Mulderbosch suggests Crab cakes, chicken satay, spring rolls with ginger dipping sauce, herb rubbed roast turkey, ratatouille, glazed pork or strawberries and cream. Shelf $12.99 Tasting $11.69


Tohu Wines Pinot Noir – Marlborough, New Zealand. Tohu (pronounced Tor-who) is the world’s first Maori owned wine company. Since 1998, they’ve been making wines produced from three of New Zealand’s premier grape growing regions: Marlborough, Nelson and Gisborne. All hand picked fruit mostly from the prized Awatere vineyard, the rest being from the Waihopai valley vineyard. Vines are carefully monitored to keep the crop yields low. This Pinot is styled for the new world drinker with notes of oak, mild tannins and ample mouth feel. Cherry, raspberry and violets are offered in spades, silk smooth and lip smackingly delicious. Shelf $19.99 Tasting $17.99


July has been another record month here at the store. We are so very grateful for all of your continued support. You are truly world class people and we are so very lucky to have you as customers. Thank you from the very bottom of our overflowing glass!


Geoff & Charles


Asheville’s Best Wine & Beer Tasting Saturday August, 7 2010 3PM-8PM www.appalachianvintner.com


August always seems to slip in under the vale of summer and surprise us with its stealth and cunning. There are more Leo’s in our circle than we care to admit. Its been quite wild around here lately, so if we forget, here’s a sunny birthday wish to all of our fiery Leo’s.


Enough on August already right? Well actually it’s just beginning! This is going to be one crazy month, below are the events Appalachian Vintner will have their paws in.


August ~ Events ~


CarePartners Design House 2010 ~Ciel~ August 19th – August 29th


Sunny Point Café Beer Dinner ~ Olde Hickory Brewery & a 4 course meal featuring summer selections from the Sunny Point neighborhood garden! August 24th $40 per person, non-inclusive. RSVP 828.505.7500 or 828.252.0055


HAVANA NIGHTS –Appalachian Vintner hosts the Asheville Affiliates ~ for a fundraising event benefiting Asheville-Buncombe Communtiy Relations Council $25 advance $30 door.


New Arrivals ~ wine ~


Falcor Amador County Syrah– Crafted in the style of the great Cote-Rotie, with tiny amounts of Viognier blended for an abundance of aromatics. AV exlusive $26.99 or $22.94 as part of any case.


~beer~


De Dochter Vande Korenaar “Finesse” Triple– Baarle-Hertog. Antwerp, Belgium. Absolutely palate soaking flavor. Serious bidders only please for this 12 percent import.


Bell’s Brewing Oberon Vintage Dated 5L keg cans


Uncle Scott’s All Natural Rootbeer– Mooresville, NC. Made with organic sugar and all natural ingredients. Singles & 6pks


~ Free Saturday Tasting ~





Broadbent Vinho Verde– 50% Loureiro, 40% Trajadura and 10% Pedernã [aka Arinto]. Vinho Verde, the most popular white wine from Portugal, is a deliciously refreshing, light wine with gentle spritz. “Verde”, meaning “green” refers to the hints of lime color. Broadbent Vinho Verde is the only Vinho Verde imported on a refrigerated container. The result is an excellent example of Vinho Verde that is as fresh as the day it was bottled. An ideal warm weather wine, excellent for lunch and picnics, this wine is equally as lovely as an evening aperitif. It makes a brilliant pairing with any fish, shell fish and poultry. “It’s the world’s greatest pairing for a Caesar salad” according to wine writer Jordan MacKay. The label above was painted by Alice, the niece, of Bartholomew Broadbent, when she was four. Shelf $8.99 Tasting $8.09


Sitios de Bodegas Con Class– 60% Verdejo, 25% Viura, 15% Sauvignon Blanc from Rueda, Spain. Ricardo Sanz is a sixth generation winemaker in the Rueda region and alongside his brother Marco and his sister Alejandra, launched Sitios de Bodega in 2005. They have a thoroughly modern approach to winemaking – concentrating on the native variety, Verdejo, and organic viticulture. The winery is surrounded by the estate vineyards,