Author: thehappyvine@gmail.com

Eloquence & Oysters

𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝓰𝓲𝓬 𝓸𝓯 #𝓸𝔂𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 #𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓶𝓹𝓪𝓰𝓷𝓮 𝓮𝓵𝓮𝓿𝓪𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓷𝓮𝔁𝓽 𝓵𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓵 Champagne Eloquence 2017 by Marie Courtin is 100% massal selection Chardonnay; from grapes grown in Polisot village in Côte des Bar. Vinified in barriques, disgorged 09/2021 and final dosage to adjust for Extra Brut style. 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓶𝓹𝓪𝓰𝓷𝓮 𝓜𝓪𝓻𝓲𝓮 𝓒𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓽𝓲𝓷 𝓔𝓵𝓸𝓺𝓾𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓑𝓵𝓪𝓷𝓬 𝓭𝓮 𝓑𝓵𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓼 𝓔𝔁𝓽𝓻𝓪 𝓑𝓻𝓾𝓽 2017 Liquid gold in the glass with fine lively bubbles. The Kinmeridgian soils are evident on nose – intense minerality followed by lemon zest, tart apple, pear, lemon cream, buttered toast and straw. Dominique Moreau’s champagnes always have an underlying power to their graceful character, both reflecting her style and terroir. Fresh and exuberant with a sharp attack on the palate of of flint, saline, meringue, candied ginger, tart green apple, lemon peel and a warm hazelnut finish wrapped in delicate vanilla. An electric champagne that has a story to tell. No question to pair this Champagne with oysters and a zesty addition of mango jalapeño mignonette. Absolutely spectacular! Mango Jalapeño Mignonette Recipe: 1/4 cup mango, diced very small, or chopped fine 1/4 cup champagne vinegar 1 lime, juiced 1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon sea salt Fresh ground black pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon jalapeño, seeded & diced small 2 tablespoons red onion, diced small 2 tablespoons fresh scallion or chives, chopped fine Splash of champagne Mix all of the ingredients together and enjoy alongside your locally sourced (if possible) oysters. Bon appétit mes amis 🥂

Poetic Dutcher Crossing Cabernet

𝓑𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓮𝓽 𝓲𝓼 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝔀𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓹𝓸𝓮𝓽𝓻𝔂 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓫𝓸𝓭𝔂 – 𝓔𝓵𝓲𝓯 𝓢𝓱𝓪𝓯𝓪𝓴 Like ballet, wine is liquid poetry and this charming ballerina of a Cabernet Shiraz is about to whisk you away with its pas de deux from artisanal winery Dutcher Crossing. Grown in the rocky hillsides of Dry Creek Valley, their signature red is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon 18% Syrah, the Syrah adds plushness Cabernet’s rich & bold structure. Aged for 22 months in barrels, of which 50% is new French oak. Only 784 cases made. 𝓓𝓾𝓽𝓬𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓒𝓻𝓸𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓣𝓪𝔂𝓵𝓸𝓻 𝓡𝓮𝓼𝓮𝓻𝓿𝓮 𝓒𝓪𝓫𝓮𝓻𝓷𝓮𝓽 𝓢𝓪𝓾𝓿𝓲𝓰𝓷𝓸𝓷 𝓓𝓻𝔂 𝓒𝓻𝓮𝓮𝓴 𝓥𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓮𝔂 2017 14.9% abv Pours into the glass a dark garnet tone. Inviting aromas captivates you and draws you in with dark cherry, cassis, blackberry, dried fog, coffee and cocoa enveloped with warm baking spice and leather. The first sip dances across the palate with lush fruit flavors followed by warm mocha, vanilla, dark chocolate, currant leaf, cigar box, raisins into a meaty pepper and clove humming finish that lingers seductively for ages. A lush mouthfeel with fine grained tannins that bolsters the rich full bodied personality. A beautiful crafted wine with a seamless interaction between flavor, structure, and acidity.    Decadent pairing for this gorgeous wine calls for slow braised short ribs, a roast leg of lamb with dauphinoise gratin or portobello aged cheddar burgers.

Champagne Fleury – A Symphony of Purity and Power

Champagne Fleury is a family-owned Champagne house located in the Côte des Bar region of southern Champagne. Founded in 1895, the house is known for its biodynamically produced Champagnes, which are made using natural methods that respect the environment and the terroir. The Fleury family has been at the forefront of the biodynamic movement in Champagne. In 1989, Jean-Pierre Fleury became the first Champagne producer to convert his entire vineyard to biodynamics. Today, the house is certified biodynamic by Demeter, an international organization that sets standards for biodynamic agriculture. Fleury’s Champagnes are made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The wines are known for their elegance, purity, and minerality. Champagne Fleury Sonate Extra Brut 2012: A Symphony of Purity and Power In the glass it shimmers with a pale gold brilliance, a touch deeper than most “brut nature” Champagnes. The mousse is fine and persistent, forming delicate, ephemeral chains of bubbles that rise gracefully to the surface.On the nose, an initial burst of vibrant green apple and pear mingles with notes of white peach and candied orange peel. As the wine opens up, deeper aromas emerge: buttery brioche, toasted hazelnuts, and a hint of honeyed beeswax. Subtle floral notes of honeysuckle and acacia blossom add a touch of elegance. Notably, there’s an intriguing earthiness, a whisper of damp mossy woods, that adds complexity and intrigue. The palate is where the Sonate truly sings. The initial attack is vibrant and energetic, with a racy acidity that cleanses and excites the taste buds. The dominant red fruit character of Pinot Noir takes center stage, offering flavors of ripe raspberries and wild strawberries intermingled with tart cherries and juicy red plums. Chardonnay’s minerality underpins the fruit, providing a backbone of chalky, wet stones and a long, saline finish. Beyond the fruit and acid, a fascinating textural complexity unfolds. The natural ferments and oak cask aging contribute subtle tannins that lend a slight chewiness, contrasting with the creamy mousse. There’s a hint of brioche, a whisper of honey, and a lingering nuttiness that lingers on the long, satisfying finish. Throughout the experience, the Sonate’s “zero dosage” nature shines through. The absence of added sugar allows the pure terroir and meticulous winemaking to take center stage. This is a Champagne of remarkable honesty and transparency, reflecting the unique character of Fleury’s Grand Cru vineyards. Overall, the 2012 Champagne Fleury Sonate Extra Brut is a stunning expression of terroir and craftsmanship. It’s a wine for those seeking a serious, complex Champagne, where every sip is a journey of discovery. This is a symphony of purity and power, a testament to the Fleury family’s dedication to biodynamic viticulture and natural winemaking.

Champagne Christian Lassaigne-Berlot Gem

Christian Lassaigne founded their house in 1964 in the village of Montgueux when he acquired a few plots of land in the village. He was a self taught vigneron passionate about sustainable viticulture. He was one of the pioneers of “enherbement”, the practice of leaving the soil between the rows of vines uncultivated. This helps to preserve the soil and prevent erosion. Today, the house is run by Christian’s son, Jean-Charles Lassaigne. Jean-Charles is committed to continuing his father’s legacy of sustainable viticulture of their 5.5 chalky hectares, both organically and biodynamically. Champagne Christian Lassaigne-Berlot Sélection Brut Pours into the glass a pale gold with subtle, shimmering silver reflections. The bubbles rise in a steady stream, fine and persistent, forming a delicate crown that lingers gracefully on the surface. A vibrant wave of fresh fruit takes center stage, dominated by crisp aromas of apple, pear, and white peach. An underlying floral note unfolds, reminiscent of honeysuckle and acacia, adding a touch of elegance. As the wine opens, subtle hints of brioche and almond emerge, hinting at the extended lees aging, while a whisper of citrus zest adds a refreshing lift. The attack is soft and creamy with the acidity strikes a perfect balance, providing freshness without harshness. The fruit flavors from the nose come alive, bursting with juicy pears and golden apples. A touch of honeyed sweetness mingles with brioche notes, creating a rich and layered character. The minerality creeps in gently, adding a subtle chalky texture and depth. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering impression of fresh citrus and floral notes. The creamy texture fades gracefully, leaving the palate clean and refreshed. Just a beautifully balanced and harmonious champagne that appeals to all the senses.

A Unique Blend from Jeff Carrell

Domaine D’Ansignan is the only winery in town. Located in Fenouillèdes, in the Agly Vallee, Antiguan commune of the Mediterranean Cotes Catalanes. Jeff Carrel, have long been cultivated in Southern France and represent the “forefathers” of the Languedoc Appellation’s red wines. An incredibly unique blend of red and white grapes creating fresh and floral wine of 42% Grenache, 31% Syrah, 16% Carignan, 8% Lledoner Pellut and 3% Maccabeau grown on rocky granite soils at 600 meters. Vines have been trained in the traditional goblet style for the region, organic farming and hand harvesting. Pours into the glass a light ruby or cherry red, with a youthful vibrancy. The wine may even have a slightly rosé-like hue at the rim. Aromas of fresh and juicy red fruit jump out of the glass immediately – redcurrant, pomegranate, strawberry, and hint of raspberry, followed by violets adding a floral elegance and a whisp of black pepper. The first sip is bright and fresh, the crisp acidity keeps the palate balanced. A medium bodied with a with a lively and energetic mouthfeel. The tannins are soft and fine adding just enough weight without feeling out of balance. The flavors follow the nose, with red fruits, pomegranate, and violets dominating. There’s a hint of earthiness and minerality from the granite soils, and a touch of spice from the Syrah component. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering notes of fruit and pepper which adds intrigue to the wine. Paired with a warm summers night and a good ol’grilled sirloin steak. Bon Appetit.

Schneider & Bieler Le Breton Cabernet Franc

Schneider’s long-time passion for cabernet franc and Bieler’s for rose, Schneider & Bieler is dedicated exclusively to two shades of cabernet franc grown on the best vineyard sites on the East side of Seneca Lake and the West side of Cayuga Lake. Schneider & Bieler Le Breton Cabernet Franc 2020 Finger Lakes, New York Bright and fruity ready red to be enjoyed. This is an excellent slightly chilled red that leans towards a lighter style, shy of a Gamay. This Cabernet Franc has such silky tannins intertwined with the lovely acid. Overflowing with tart raspberry, sour cherry and , dark chocolate and raspberry leaf with a savory thyme finish. Moorish in your mouth and in the glass. Paired with spiced rubbed and grilled tuna steaks

Picpoul Pool Pleasure

ᴘɪᴄᴘᴏᴜʟ+ᴘɪꜱᴄɪɴᴇ= ᴘʟᴀɪꜱɪʀ ℙ𝕚𝕔𝕡𝕠𝕦𝕝+ℙ𝕠𝕠𝕝=ℙ𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕖 The double 3P trifecta 👍 37C/98F heatwave begs for zingy white wine. What could be more zingy than a Picpoul? Saint-Peyre Picpoul, Picpoul de Pinet 2022 Picpoul (aka lip smacked/stinger/tingler hence the name) is the grape, Picpoul de Pinet is the AOC located in Languedoc, France. It is the only appellation in the region dedicated solely to dry white wine production. Pale lemon green in the glass. An aromatic plethora of citrus and stone fruit, telltale saline, iodine minerality. First sip the smack acid attack (in a very good way), followed by bright lime zest, lemon juice, lime blossom, fresh peaches, grass, saline heaven and thyme high five finish. Crisp & refreshing – expectations met 👍 Get your salty seafood platter – cod croquettes, freshly shucked oysters or lobster roll

Green with Dutcher Crossing Sauvignon Blanc

𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧…Sauvignon Blanc from Dutcher Crossing 2022, Sonoma County Artisanal winemaking, woman owned, sustainable and oh so glorious. A unique technique for this years vintage. They aged part of the wine in new oak Ovonum which keeps the fine lees continuous motion, adding a richer texture to the wine. Pours into the glass a crystalline green yellow color in the glass. The immediate pungent aromas are a variety of natures green hues – lime, melon, lemongrass, bell pepper, fresh cut grass, gooseberry to ripe peach, pink grapefruit, passion fruit, jasmine and flint. The art of this wine is obvious with your first sip. The vibrant flavors of fresh squeezed lemons and limes, pink grapefruit, lime zest, bell pepper, honeydew melon, lychee, jalapeño, a touch of asparagus and smoke. It’s a refreshing medium bodied white with a well balanced 14% abv. A textured mouthfeel and mouthwatering finish that seems to linger endlessly on the pallet. Pair with crispy kale chips, avocado olive quesadillas or sweet potato fries with cilantro aioli.

Isabelle Suire Saumur Blanc

100% Chenin Blanc 100% Summer saline sensation Isabelle Suire, Saumur Blanc 2021 A hundred year old family winery and President of Saumur White Wine Association, Isabelle Suire took over the reigns of the business in 2007. Her first order of business was to convert to sustainable organic farming and winemaking practices. Mineral driven wines that showcases the terroir. Linear in its direction, vibrant in its acidity, a firecracker of a Chenin in every sense. It embodies all that is shining bright about Chenin – crispy citrus, tart apple, melon, ripe peach, crushed gravel and saline mineral packed punch. Bright in every sense of the word.

Bodegas San Román Tinto Toro

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕠𝕗 𝕓𝕖𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕪 – 𝔽𝕣𝕒𝕟𝕜 𝕊𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕣𝕒 Bodegas San Román Tinto Toro 2017 Bodegas y Vinedos San Roman is a family-owned winery that was founded by iconic winemaker (of Vega Sicilia) Mariano Garcia in 1998 as Bodegas y Vinedos Maurodos. His vision was to produce world class wines which balanced freshness and longevity in the bottle against the renown power of the region’s wines which is now run by his two sons, Alberto and Eduardo Garcia. Organic viticulture, incorporating some Biodynamic principles and practices, these 100% Tinto de Toro (aka Tempranillo) 60 year old bush trained vines on steep hillside slopes at 700-800 meters altitude in mostly gravel with a mix of clay and sand soils. Aged for 24 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels with 25% of the oak being new.
 You feel the punch and finesse in tandem. Deep ruby velvet in the glass. Superbe pronounced aromas of blackberry, black cherry, black plum, cassis, vanilla, sandalwood, spice cake, tobacco, toasty oak and rich earthiness. Wrap yourself in the plush tannins and rich blue fruit notes accompanied by chocolate covered cherries, cigar box, mocha, prunes, licorice, cedar, into a sweet lingering finish of mint, dill and mocha. Silky meets polished in every sense. This one could easily age another decade. It has so much youth and pep in its step. This Toro-tastic wine calls for charcoal smoked baby-back ribs 😋 divine!