Author: thehappyvine@gmail.com

Champagne La Rogerie Is Art

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚𝙨 – 𝙈𝙄𝘼 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒈𝒏𝒆 𝑳𝒂 𝑹𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆 𝑯é𝒓𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒄 𝒅𝒆 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒔 𝑬𝒙𝒕𝒓𝒂 𝑩𝒓𝒖𝒕 2013 Wine is art – from the beauty of nature to the artisanal winemaking to what is in the bottle. Champagne La Rogerie embodies all of these artisanal components and much more. This bubbly embodies vigour, vitality, beauty and a fresh snowfall sparkle. Justine and Francois Petit-Boxler have centuries of tradition in winemaking between them (her from Alsace and his from Avize). It’s not surprising that their energy, love and dedication all contribute to the sense of place in their champagnes. They took over Francois grandfather’s 0.6 hectare domaine in 2015 and first order was to convert to biodynamic farming. The vines were planted between 1937 and 1961 therefore the entire vineyard is composed of very old vines, massale selection. They wanted to continue the tradition but put a modern spin and stamp on champagne beauty. This new generation in grower champagne is dressed to impress – they produces small batch champagnes with extended lees ageing from their chalk soil domaine located in Avize Grand Cru, Côte Des Blancs, which nestled snuggly in between Selosse and Louis Roederer by the way. Their bottle foils are designed by their friend and artist Nicolas Maitrot to represent the celebration of life in six different ways. This 100% Chardonnay is a bright gold color that just shines through the exuberant fine perlage. It’s complex in its aromatics – layers of mushrooms, umami, earthy smoke, acacia, baked apple, toasted brioche and nuts, citrus and spice. First sip and Tchaikovsky’s Waltz Of The Flowers popped into my head- every single element danced together as one in complete harmony. Super fine perlage swayed in unison with the bright acidity. The 96 months sur lie adds a huge amount of rich complexity and goodness. The low dosage of 2 g/L allows the pure flavors of dried apricot, hay, croissant dough, lemon curd and lemon zest, baked apple, caramel, chalk, toasted brioche and long finish on ginger spice. It has its own center core, its own delicate rhythm and flow. 6048 bottles produced I recommend losing yourself in it’s artisanal finesse and beauty.

Celler Credo Miranius 2019

Creativity is the greatest rebellion in existence – Osho Celler Credo Miranius 2019 Catalonia, Penedès DO, Spain Recaredo – 3 generations of quality, natural and pure essence Corpinnat (high quality traditional method sparkling wine that has strict regulations) began to make single vineyard still white wines from the same native grapes use to make Corpinnat (Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada). These vineyards are at steep elevations (200-600 meters) in sub areas of the Penedes region. All produced organically and biodynamically, low yields, ambient yeast fermented, some skin contact in old clay vessels and unfiltered. The Miranius on the label is the sly little fox who waits for the precisely the right moment to sneak into the vineyard in stealth mode and eat the delicious Macabeo and Xarel-lo grapes. MIranius is the only 100% Xarel-lo single varietal wine made in the region. Extended skin contact and aged for 3 months on the lees, this wine is so full of character and unique freshness. Such a pale lemon color it’s almost translucent. Perfumed floral bouquet with green fruit, yellow plum, citrus, doughy character, warm fresh herbs (thyme, fennel). Crisp acidity, buttery saline mouthfeel with flavors of green apple and grass, gooseberry, lime zest, peach, ginger zip – it tastes like the Mediterranean Sea with some fruit freshness. This wine is just bright all around in its personality and life. Pair with gambas à la plancha, marinated mussels, chorizo bread bites or friend calamari.

Domaine Jean-Marc Bernhard Riesling

Domaine Jean-Marc Bernhard 2013 Schlossberg Grand Cru Riesling Alsace, France Riesling Grand Cru from Alsace is so special and sought after… Why? Combine the 400 meters altitude, the steep slopes along the foothills of the Vosges Mountains or the fact that it gets about 3 times less rainfall than Bordeaux? NOTE- it has the countries largest underground water reserve (but irrigation isn’t permitted) so the vines have to work extra hard and dig very deep for water. All of these factors along with centuries of history, tradition in winemaking shape the wines to be spectacular. Domaine Bernard are a 9th generation winemaking family recently certified organic. The traditions of farming the 27 acres of old vines planted in pure granite soils have the stunning Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer. Their wines are pure, clean and full of verve. The wine pours into the glass a bright gold color. It bristles with a classic mineral tension on the nose along with round and ripe stone fruit, honeysuckle, honey and citrus zest profile. The clean mouthfeel is crisp and truly rich in flavor – honeyed goodness of honey, honeysuckle and honey ripe apricots, lime and lemon pith, white flowers, wet stones, saline and ginger. The acidity is linear and sharp, textural deliciousness and truly well balanced, not to mention the lower alcohol spectrum of 12%. This beauty went down like nobody’s business with comforting chicken stew.

Mas dei Chini Inking Rosè Nature Trentodoc

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑫𝑨𝒁𝒁𝑳𝑬 – 𝑮𝒊𝒂𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒐 𝑪𝒂𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒂 Be prepared to be dazzled by this beauty of a sparkling rosé from Mas dei Chini. Grown in the cold, elevated altitude (400 meters) of Nassi di Cadino – a wine growing area between the provinces of Trento and Bolzano. Mas dei Chini has 10 children – 4 sparkling and 6 still wines. Their love is in every single bottle, their passion is evident in every sip. Each one tells a story, has it’s own personality. The Rosè Nature sparkling is made in the Metodo Classico from 100% Pinot Nero, are manually harvested, soft pressing, cool fermentation and maturation on the lees for a 48 months before disgorgement with additional time in bottle. 
 𝕄𝕒𝕤 𝔻𝕖𝕚 ℂ𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕚 𝕀𝕟𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕠 ℝ𝕠𝕤è ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕖 𝕋𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕠𝕕𝕠𝕔 𝕊.𝔸. 8000 bottles A feminine coral pink color with ridiculously exuberant bubbles (swipe left) made in the Metodo Classico, sparkling wine from 100% Pinot Nero. Everything about this wine is delicate – the aromas, the flavors, the experience and expression. Graceful aromas of stone fruit, red berries (strawberry, raspberry and currant), caramel, sulfur and minerals, grapefruit pith, wild rose and brioche dough. The first sip brought forth a zingy acidity, creamy fresh mouthfeel along with additional flavors of lemon zest, honeysuckle, with a lingering butterscotch and hazelnut finish. This is a well crafted sparkling as the balance is so subtle in flavors and the true character of the Pinot Noir shines through in it’s elegance, clean structure and freshness. I enjoyed this sparkling both as an aperitif and paired with flounder stuffed with crab, lemon zest and fine herbs.

Cantina del Barone Fiano 2019

𝔻𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕒𝕥𝕙 𝕞𝕒𝕪 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕕. 𝔾𝕠 𝕚𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠 𝕡𝕒𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕝. – ℝ𝕒𝕝𝕡𝕙 𝕎𝕒𝕝𝕕𝕠 𝔼𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕠𝕟 Luigi Sarno had a vision of creating something different from the grand terroirs of Irpinia, Campania. In 2001 he completely changed the orientation of the vines to increase sun exposure and replanted a new sixth in the Particella 928. This is a small parcel 0.5 hectares of Fiano, planted in rich volcanic soils expressing clean minerality of the soils. Organic, whole cluster fermentation with stalks to add phenolic structure, indigenous yeasts, on the lees for 8-16 months depending Sarno’s judgement of the vintage (he regularly tastes the progression, almost daily), with additional 4 months bottle ageing. Cantina del Barone Fiano 2019 Fiano di Avellino, Campania 4000 bottles produced Rich golden color with inviting aromas of honeysuckle, orange blossom, apple, pear, dough, lemon zest, smoke and minerals. The creamy texture just coats the entire palate. Its bountiful in orange (zest, blossom and juice), apple butter, caramel, dough, smoke, distinctive hazelnut, ends on saline white pepper hum. The wine transitions from fruit, to floral, to nuts to minerals and saline, long finish, mouthwatering vertical acidity and freshness. It’s such a unique wine that keeps you guessing it’s complexity and coming back for more. If you have never had a wine from Luigi Sarno, I strongly suggest you do so. His wines are a thing of beauty and his enthusiasm, passion are evident in the glass. Paired with a delicious roasted butternut squash risotto with plenty of parmesan and unctuous rich extra virgin olive oil or grilled warm spiced port chops.

Château Gruaud Larose Grand Cru 2000

“Elegance is an attitude.” -Longines Bordeaux is such a highly diverse region, every sub appellation is different from one neighbor to the next. Chateau Gruaud-Larose was classified as one of fifteen Deuxièmes Crus in the original 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Hailing from the smallest Haut Medoc regions, Saint Julien. The region produces finely structured Cabernet dominant red blends. An organic and biodynamic chateau, the vines are average 46 years old planted in the signature Garonne gravel soils. Chateau Gruaud-Larose Grand Cru Classé 2000 Saint Julien, Bordeaux A stylistic blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. Aged for 16-18 months in 50% new oak. Deep jeweled garnet color, a color that you can get lost in staring into it’s depths. Thoroughly ripe aromas of dark fruit, dried figs, loads of leather, cedar, tobacco and crushed stone. The flavors are very concentrated – the aromas are present with black raspberry and blackberry, prune, graphite, meatiness and coffee. The tannins are so supple and smooth and beautifully integrated with the lively acid and flavors. The wine is so silky in texture and classically savory. It’s a rare treat of a wine that excites you, that stimulates ALL of your senses. It amazed me how fresh it still was at 22 years old. Quite honestly, I enjoyed this wine all on it’s own by the fire and just lost myself in it’s decadence.

Taylor Fladgate Vintage Porto 1997

I love Port, always have, always will. I remember the first time I tasted it at an in-depth styles of Port tasting paired with a variety of nuts, cheeses, dried fruit and chocolate. It BLEW my mind!  It was an explosion of flavors and textures. I was instantly hooked.  𝓣𝓪𝔂𝓵𝓸𝓻 𝓕𝓵𝓪𝓭𝓰𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓥𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓰𝓮 𝓟𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓸 1997 Why is Vintage Port so special, so revered?  For many reasons – it is only made from a single vintage, top quality fruit and fortified with a neutral spirit and declared in the best years once the Institute of Douro and Porto approves the quality standards.  The port is generally aged for a short 2-3 years in barrels followed by very extended bottle ageing, 15+ years.   Taylor Fladgate is one of the creme de la creme producers.  Deep and dark garnet color, loose yourself in its richness.  Striking aromas of leather, tobacco, dried fig, prune, dusty graphite, licorice, nutmeg, pepper, black cherry, blackberry, wet leaves, kirsch and smoke. But wait it doesn’t end there – its sooooooo smooth & soft silky on the palate, every single element is harmonious, the supple tannins, the fresh acidity, the pronounced intensity and extremely long finish.  The aromas carry forward on the palate in its medium sweet deliciousness. It’s very vibrant and fresh considering it’s 25 years old!  I paired it with a Port board with classic pairings – the mature blue cheese, especially Stilton – its the sweet and salty contrast, similar unctuous textures and the strength of the flavors. Add in dark chocolate, dried figs and walnuts – it’s pure pleasure in every single bite and sip.

Champagne Rémy Massin & Fils Tradition Brut

𝔼𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕒𝕘𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕝 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕚𝕤 𝕤𝕠𝕗𝕥𝕝𝕪 𝕗𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘. When the moment is this extraordinary it calls for a magical grower producer, Champagne Rémy Massin & Fils. They are 5 generations of passionate wine growers (dating back to 1865) from Ville-sur-Arce in the Cote des Bar. The 22 hectares Maison itself was established in 1974 by Rémy Massin. The vineyards consist of 75% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Blanc planted on limestone, clay and Kimmeridgian composition. A sustainable grower producer with strict adherence to the care of the environment. They have a true understanding of nature’s elements – balance in the vineyards and in their champagnes. We are talking about hand crafted excellence in everything they do. ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕞𝕡𝕒𝕘𝕟𝕖 ℝé𝕞𝕪 𝕄𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕚𝕟 & 𝔽𝕚𝕝𝕤 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝔹𝕣𝕦𝕥 ℕ𝕍 This 100% Pinot Noir is aged on the lees for a minimum of 3 years with minimal dosage of 4g/L in order to achieve a perfect balance of expression and terroir. Brilliant gold color with energetic bubbles in the glass. Aromas of sweet perfumed white flowers, stone fruits, lemon curd and marzipan tickle the senses. The first sip brings a uber fresh fruity introduction of white peach and nectarine, green apple, strawberry and cherry, creamy caramel, chalky minerality, lemon meringue pie finishing on yeasty croissant dough, biscuit and ginger hum. The lively acidity carries the creamy texture and lingering flavors. The flavors are so pure and clean like the fresh fallen snow. It’s a Blanc de Noirs with so much fruity fresh personality. Pair with a heartwarming lobster risotto, macadamia nut crusted scallops or salty parmesan

Louis de Grenelle Saumur Corail Rosé Brut

Louis De Grenelle Saumur Corail Rose Brut NV Saumur, Touraine, Loire One of the oldest Maison in Saumur, Louis de Grenelle has been making sparkling wine since 1859. Three generations later, the 40 hectare estate is lovingly cultivated sustainably carrying on the timeless family traditions and methods. Made in the traditional method, this low yield 100% Cabernet Franc sparkler has been delicately and slowly pressed to showcase it’s palest of pale salmon color. Aged for a minimum of 12 months on the lees with a minimal dosage of 8g/L.    The color is just so pretty and eye-catching, coral salmon color.  The delicate wild red berry, floral and mineral character are so pleasing to the senses.  The fine energectic bubbles are never ending in the glass (swipe to see and hear it’s excitement). The flavors are a symphony of raspberry and wild strawberry, violets, grass and rhubarb leaf, peach, biscuit and orange zest ending on the chalky mineral note. It’s so fresh and creamy with a zingy minerality.  A wonderful QPR under $25 that is perfect for a fireside sipper aperitif or with a seasonal fruit tart or goat cheese roulade. 

Cascina Fontana Barbera D’Alba

“At the heart of every family tradition is a meaningful experience.” A.A. Cascina Fontana Barbera d’Alba 2018 Monforte d’Alba, Piedmont, Italy A small, 6th generation family winery who specializes in the Langhe red varieties, their 5 hectares are sprinkled in the best zones of the beautiful Monforte d’Alba region (Castiglione Falletto, La Morra ( and Sinio) with Langhe’s noted varieties of Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo. Mario and Luisa Fontana respect and closely follow the traditions of the region, history steeped with regional culture and history. Their wines are unfiltered, no chemicals, this is purity of fruit with harmonious, natural goodness in the bottles. Pours into the glass a deep ruby red. The perfumed aromas of wild berries, tart cherry and cranberry, roses, sweet spice, earthy bay leaf and graphite. On the first sip, the concentrated berries and floral notes are followed by the sweet spice of licorice and pepper, graphite held together with ripe smooth tannins and sour acidity. It has a bit of funk balanced with the freshness into a lingering finish.