​Prizefight Irish Whiskey ($43.99)
Ireland/New Hampshire
From the producer:
"When Flor Prendergast decided to create a whiskey, he brought in his American friend and spirits maverick, Steven Grasse, who had an idea that required a transatlantic collaboration: whiskey from Ireland, finished in rye barrels from America. They formed Pugilist Spirits to bring this idea to life, with whiskey distilled and aged in West Cork, Ireland and rye barrels sourced by Grasse’s own Tamworth Distilling in the U.S.

Inspired by the Irish-American connection, Grasse had the idea to call the whiskey Prizefight. The brand tells the incredible stories of the Irish who came to America and became the greatest fighters of their day. Each bottle commemorates the boxing legends who came with nothing and fought for everything.

Prizefight is a blend of 10-year-old malt and 4-year-old grain, finished in rye barrels for 6 months.

Tasting Notes: Fresh and clean with fruit, floral, and spice notes. Sweet and refreshing up front, followed by a subtle hint of bitterness and a spicy finish."

From me:
Prizefight is very distinct from traditional Irish whiskeys, mostly due to its having been finished in rye casks. The usual soft finish one might expect is instead a bit spicy. This is a great drinking whiskey, but I think it would shine more brightly in cocktails such a Manhattans or the original recipes that you can find on their website. We will be trying it neat and with Wild Moon Birch Liqueur.

123 Organic Reposado Tequila "Dos" ($52.99)
Mexico
From the producer:
"When  tequilero David Ravandi envisioned 123 Organic Tequila, he was inspired to design a brand specifically with wine enthusiasts in mind. The delicate floral aromas and complex mineral flavors found in 123 Organic Tequila are the result of artisanal, small-batch distillation and estate hand bottling.

As the sun and moon meet in the sky above the agave plantation, two stealthy jaguars (miztli) roam the fields in search of their elusive prey. During their silent hunts, Reposado (Dos) tequila rests in white oak barrels for six months before its timely release. This complex spirit reveals aromatic raw and cooked agave tempered by the warmth of oak aging with spicy notes of vanilla, anise and hint of citrus; a combination equally at home in cocktails and as a sipping tequila making it the most versatile of the 123 Organic Tequila styles."

From me:
Jose Cuervo and I had a pretty bad break-up in college. I'm sure some of you can relate. As a result, I spent nearly 20 years avoiding even the smell of Tequila, and I was not eager to taste any in preparation of opening this shop. Then I discovered that really good Tequila is REALLY GOOD. The owner of Blue Agave in Saratoga introduced me to Dos, and I was not exaggerating when I told him he changed my life in regard to Tequila. It's delicious, well-made, elegant, and worth every penny. Don't waste this in a mixed drink: sip it neat or chilled. If you MUST add something, try the Wild Moon Lime liqueur in it!

Black Button Bourbon Cream ($31.99)
Rochester, NY
From the producer:
"Whiskey and cream seem to be such a natural fit together and this, the only farm fresh New York State bourbon cream around, combines our hand finished Bourbon and local cream for a drink that delights. Bourbon Cream is similar in concept to an Irish Cream but discloses a richer feel. The bolder vanilla and caramel flavors make this a unique spirit that can be used on its own, in a cup of coffee or in a cocktail. We recommend trying it in a Root Beer Float!"

From me:
Drink this, not that! This stuff is incredible. It's sweet without being cloying or syrupy, and the creaminess is not overbearing. Black Button is a grain-to-glass distiller in Rochester that produces quality spirits. This contains a blend of their own bourbon, bourbon from another small distiller, and local NY cream. It will ruin you for other cream spirits! We will be trying it plain and mixed with Wild Moon Chai liqueur. This will be the last chance to try/buy this until next fall, so come and get it!

Wild Moon Liqueurs ($21.99)
Hartford, Connecticut
From the producers:
"Uniquely flavored, all-natural liqueurs designed for the professional mixologist and home enthusiast alike. Hartford Flavor has revolutionized the traditional liqueur. Wild Moon Liqueurs are flavor forward, have reduced sugars, and no chemicals; there is nothing else like it on the market.

All natural-Gluten Free-GMO Free"

From me:
I just met the creators/owners of this company, and I was extremely impressed with their dedication to bringing something unique and versatile to the liqueur market. Beyond the incredible flavor profiles, these liqueurs are made in small batches as naturally (and organically) as they can be. The base spirit is made from sugar cane. I am happy to currently carry the Cranberry and the Lime, but at this week's tasting we will also pour the other flavors: Chai, Cucumber, Rose, Lavender, and Birch. You try them and tell me what you think--I will stock what the people like! 

​Saveurs du Temps Costières de Nimes Rosé ($11.99)
Rhône Valley, France
From the distributor:
"Vignerons Propriétés Associés is set on the right bank of the Rhône, a few steps from the historic site of the Pont du Gard. The vineyards are located in a triangle between the famous commune of St Hilaire d’Ozilhan at the heart of the southern slice of land bordering the Gard region and the Côtes du Rhône, then head westward towards Sommières, to the edge of the Camargue Region. VPA includes 620 Hectares spread out over the 4 communes of Saint Hilaire d’Ozilhan, Castillon du Gard, Valliguieres and Laudun. 930 Hectares of Costières land in six communes, Générac, Nimes, Saint Gilles, Milhaud, Bernis, Aubord and Beauvoisin. 1112 hectares of Oc and Coteaux du Languedoc land in Calvisson. All of these terroirs make up the vineyards and the diversity of their production.

Intense nose of red fruit, raspberries, and blackberries. Ample and generous on the palate. Pairs well with white and grilled meats."

Grapes: 75% Grenache, 25% Syrah

From me:
This is a four-season rosé in that it has more body and elegance than the lighter, fresher wines from Provence and Languedoc. It is lovely on its own, but it is versatile enough to pair with a wide variety of dishes. I would definitely put this on the table with any sort of fowl or pork. This is a terrific wine for Easter dinner.

Von Donabaum Grüner Veltliner ($13.50)
Röschitz, Austria
From the producer:
"Volker Donabaum, the founder of Volker Wines, has been in the wine industry practically since birth. He grew up on the Donabaum family estate in the Wachau in Austria, where the family has been making wine since 1833. Volker worked several harvests in Austria before working as an assistant winemaker in California, France, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, Oregon and Canada. In 2012, Volker moved to New York City, where he imports and distributes wines from around the world, including his Volker Wines.

Grüner Veltliner von Donabaum 2016 comes from a 25 year-old single vineyard in the Austrian village of Röschitz, which is located about 1 hour north of Vienna. The hand-picked and hand-sorted grapes are destemmed before crushing, and, after a cool fermentation in stainless steel, the wine rests for 3 months on its fine lees." 

From me:
Grüner Veltliner mostly comes from Austria, and is a great alternative to either Sauvignon Blanc or Picpoul. This one is very dry with green apple on the nose and stony lemon on the palate, undercut by white floral notes. It is a zesty and refreshing wine that is perfect as an aperitif. I was lucky enough to meet Volker, whose wine I am pleased to support.

Schiopetto Malvasia ($26.99)
Friuli, Italy
From the producer:
"Malvasia Istriana is one of the historic varietals of the hills of Friuli. It grows well in poor soil of marl composition with hot and sunny exposition where the grapes are left for a lengthy maturation. They are then picked by hand, pressed at low temperatures. This is followed by a static decantation in absence of sulphur dioxide and the vinification and ageing take place in stainless steel for 8 months. The wine thus obtained is rich and complex but at the same time fragrant and aromatic.

Colour: Bright straw yellow with golden touches
Aroma: Fresh and round balance marine aromas that are perfectly balanced with scents of flowers and sweet fruits.
Palate: Creamy, rich and warm. Sweet flavors are marched by a refreshing palate with a clean high acidity finish.
Serving temperature: 13° C
Food pairings: Perfect with apetizers and first dishes, both with fish and meat."

From me:
This wine is of medium body and balanced acidity with a light floral aroma to balance the fruitiness. Eight months of aging on fine lees in stainless steel creates a crisp, but smooth feel on the palate. This would be an excellent choice for an elegant spring meal.

Tenute Rubino Salento Rosso Oltreme Susumaniello ($16.99)
Puglia, Italy
From the producer:
"Susumaniello, the most typical variety of the Brindisi area, in purity. It matures only in stainless steel vats allowing the primary flavours to fully express themselves. It enchants with simplicity through its fruity and spicy flavours.

Colour: Intense ruby red with purple tinges.
Bouquet: Fragrant fresh notes of red fruit: cherries, pomegranate, raspberries and mature plums.
Taste: Sapid, mineral and round, with pleasantly soft tannins.
Characteristics: A balanced and velvety wine, with an elegant texture; its harmony and persistence are truly enchanting. Its varietal notes stand out clearly.
Food matches: It goes well with savoury dishes such as stuffed aubergines and peppers, orecchiette with tomato sauce, risotto with porcini mushrooms. It pairs well with cold cuts, semi-cured cheeses and grilled meats."

From me:
As many of you already know, this is one of my favorite wines in the shop. Southern Italian wines are really up my alley; I love the full body, the rusticity, the ripeness, the earthiness, and the boldness. Susumaniello has become one of my favorite grapes, and I love that it is indigenous to the area where this wine is made. This is a must-try.

Ultraviolet Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.99)
California
From the producer:
"2016 marks the seventh vintage of Ultraviolet Cabernet Sauvignon, by winemaker Samantha Sheehan of POE and Mommenpop. Samantha's Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays have always been inspired by the wines of France, thus her California Cabernet project deserves a fitting title. Ultraiolet is an homage to the California climate where Sam grew up, and a pure expression of fruit ripened under the California sun.

95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
Aging: 10 months (50% new French oak, 50% neutral French oak)

Ripe notes of blueberry compote, plums, fresh violet petals and currant, a round mouthfeel with hints of blackberry bramble, black pepper and Bordeaux-like earthiness, with bright acidity and velvety, persistent tannin."

From me:
The tasting note above perfectly describes this wine, so I'll just add that if you like Napa Cabs, but would prefer better value for money, this is your wine. If you wish California Cabs were a little more subtle and complex, this is your wine. If you want to try a wine by an extraordinary winemaker, this is your wine. 

Alois Trebulanum ($34.99)
Campania, Italy
From the producer:
"Classification: Terre del Volturno IGT
Grape varietal: Casavecchia 100%
Production area: Pontelatone (CE/Italy)
The Casavecchia grape variety has a mysterious origin. There is an old country legend that narrates the discovery of a small grape vine in a 'casa vecchia' that means 'old house' in the township of Pontelatone.

This vine survived the epidemic times of the Phylloxera and the parasite fungus of Oidio dated 1851.

Casavecchia has extraordinary qualities and it is currently studied in the agricultural faculties of the University of Naples and Florence.

There are also some hypothesis that see the Casavecchia as the wine Trebulanum, praised by the Latin writer Pliny in his famous Historia Naturalis (Natural History) as a wine that came from vineyards on the hills surrounding the old town of Tremula Balliensis, an area that now comprehend the townships of Pontelatone, Castel di Sasso Liberi and Formicola.

The propagation started with the cut and the setting of a small branches and the provine, an ancient method that places the vine branch in the soil until it develops its own roots.

To the nose and the mouth, the Casavecchia gives an evocative fruity taste than only a few other fruits can give."

From me:
This single vineyard indigenous red is one of the most interesting wines I've yet tasted. My tasting notes on this include the word "perfect." The current vintage is 2012, and it can easily take 5-10 years of cellaring. If you want to enjoy it now, though, expect a bold tannin propping up deep red fruit and mild forest earthiness. This, to me, exemplifies Southern Italian wine at its best.

​Paul Jaboulet Aîné Parallele 45 Côtes du Rhône Blanc ($12.99)
Southern Rhone Valley, France
From the producer:
"History:
This Côtes du Rhône takes its name from the 45th North parallel which runs two kilometres from our cellars. In the village of Pont de l’Isère, a monument symbolises this line with an inscription: 'The South begins here.' Our wine has had this name since the beginning of the 1950s.

Grape Variety:
50% Grenache blanc ; 20% Marsanne ; 20% Viognier ; 10% Bourboulenc.

Age of the vines: 
25 years.

Vinification: 
In stainless steel tanks.

Ageing: 
2 to 3 months, 50% in oak casks.

Tasting:
Colour:
Pale yellow colour with greenish hues.
Bouquet: 
Aromatic and fresh with white flowers and citrus fruit.
Palate:
Ample and warm, with an attractive fresh final note.

Matching Food and Wine: 
Fricassé of curried mussels
Tressé of brill and salmon with sorrel
Feuilleté de Haddock aux herbettes

From me:
The appellation Côtes du Rhône is usually associated with red wine, so this is a great way to introduce yourself to the area's white blend. It has fresh white fruit flavors with a hint of floral notes and a satisfying underlying minerality. Partial oak aging smooths out the mouthfeel without making the wine too heavy on the palate. This is the entry-level wine from a well-known and highly regarded vintner, but it's no slouch!

​Argillae Orvieto ($15.99)
Umbria, Italy
From the producer:
​"Orvieto is Umbria’s and one of Italy’s most famous white wines and Argillae wishes to pay homage to its regional tradition creating a fresh dry wine, with intense aromas of flowers, citrus and tropical fruits. Broad to the nose and persistent on the palate, this wine surprises with its elegance, its perfect balance between flower and fruit scents and its extraordinary freshness. 

Grechetto, Procanico, Malvasia, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Argillae Orvieto pairs beautifully with a delicate and refined cuisine. Try with grilled and baked fish, cous cous salads and pasta dishes."

From me:
This Orvieto is, for lack of a better way of saying it, a savory wine. The fruit is very subtle, and is balanced out by a mild salinity. The mouthfeel is smooth with a little weight, though the minerality keeps it from being too heavy. This is an excellent pairing wine for seafood. I find this much more appealing for its complexity.

Tormentoso Mourvèdre ($12.99)
South Africa
From the producer:
​"Mourvèdre is fairly rare in South Africa, only a handful are bottled as single varietals. This temperamental grape thrives on the Koopmanskraal farm in Agter-Paarl. The un-irrigated, ten-year-old block produces intensely concentrated, very small bunches with pea-sized berries. The soils impart soft spice and minerality that makes this wine so exciting and unique. A complex, layered wine; the nose of berry fruit is complemented by fynbos and soft spice aromas, while the palate layers flavours of cloves, leathery spice and red fruit. The elegant finish is dry and savoury. Ideal with hearty country food, beef loin and roast red meat dishes."

From me:
Mourvèdre (also called Monastrell) is commonly used as a blending grape in French Rosés, Côtes du Rhônes, and new world "GSMs" (Grenach/Syrah/Mourvèdre), but I love it as a varietal wine. Tormentoso Mourvèdre shows a pleasant spiciness propped up by a medium tannin. The wine is dry and on the lighter side of medium-bodied, but its solid structure can still hold up to red meat. The wine's earthiness would certainly complement hard cheeses, rabbit, or a hunter's stew.