Dear Friend,

For me, the thrill of wine is the adventure of discovery. I like to think that what makes CH Wine unique is our ability to offer you the world of wine at terrific prices and today’s offerings underscore that equation. For the 2011 European harvest, we made the commitment to visit the Rhone region early in January, secure the best Lots shortly after fermentation, and handle the barrel program with one of our partners in the region.

The first 2011 releases are ready for their debut. Our first wine comes to us from Saint Peray, just at the southern tip of the Northern Rhone Valley, where only a total of 130 acres of grapes are planted, primarily to Marsanne. I have to be honest here and say that my experience with Marsanne is limited to mostly California where I find it overripe, phenolic, and waxy on the palate. Not a fan. Lot 353 2011 Saint Peray Blanc on the other hand, is an electrifying wine, vivid yellow in color with a gorgeous nose of crushed granite, white flowers, nectarine and honey. The palate is vibrant and alive with ample minerality, persistent white flower and fresh melon. Bone dry, complex, and absolutely delicious. Sourced from one of France’s greatest wine negociants, the 2010 bottling of this wine (with a $30+ price tag) scored 91 and 92 points from Robert Parker and Steve Tanzer, respectively. Lot 353 is capable of serious longevity in your cellar (10 years or more), but I encourage you to enjoy it young and fresh and watch its evolution. 300 cases produced.

Lot 351 2011 Costieres de Nimes Rose is a Reserve level wine made for us by one of our partners in the Rhone. The freshness and purity of this project are a result of vineyards planted in the stony alluvial deposits of the Rhone River tempered by proximity to the Mediterranean Ocean. This wine explodes from the glass with strawberry essence, cherry skins, and chalky acidity all framed by sweet rose petals. The palate is a perfectly balanced interplay of liquid minerals and cherry fruit swept clean with mouth-watering acidity. This is a classy, charming, free run (Syrah/Grenache saignee) Rose that enjoys a riper red fruit profile than its Provencal counterparts, but maintains the dryness. Pitch perfect in every way.

As always, if you have any questions about these or any of our other great selections, please don't hesitate to call us at 800-805-1971 or email us.