2015 Winter Case of the Season

To learn more about the wines included in the Case of the Season check out these tasting notes or visit us online at bremerswineandliquor.com

Interested in a pre-made case? Ask an associate for assistance.

Origin: SpainAppellation: CalatayudSoil: SchistAge of Vines: 50-100Elevation: 800-1000Varieties: GarnachaFarming: SustainableFermentation: Hand harvest, fermented in tankAging: 5 months in tank

Calatayud is a fairly innocuous and rural region of Spain. As far as the eye can see the hills and plains are blanketed with head-pruned vineyards, primarily Garnacha. Just to the north of Calatayud is Campo de Borja, Navarra and Rioja Baja so this sea of Garnacha is a small part of a wider ocean. Much of the inexpensive and pleasurable Garnacha sold in the US comes from these regions in Spain and Eric Solomon was an early pioneer and proponent.

Years ago while working on a project in Calatayud, Eric Solomon met Jean-Marc Lafage and Yolanda Diaz. Yolanda is a native of the region and knows the terruño of Calatayud better than anyone. Jean-Marc is the very talented winemaker and consultant from the Roussillon just across the border in France. Together they “discovered” a unique village in Calatayud, Atea. At 1000 meters above sea level it is the highest elevation village in the whole DO. Even more interesting is that the soil here is black schist, the same soil one can find in the Priorat and in Maury where Jean-Marc owns an estate by the name of Saint-Roch. This unique terroir and the old vines of Garnacha rooted in it, are the origins of Evodia.

2014 Evodia by Altovinum

90pts-Robert Parker

2014 Evodia by Altovinum

2014 Altovinum Evodia

This blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah aged in concrete and demi-muid is a custom cuvée from importer Eric Solomon. Made from very old head-pruned vines that are not irrigated in pure slate soils, some of the vines are close to 100 years of age. This is really an amazing wine for the price. It is a fruit bomb, so those not wanting flavor, or in search of wimpy wines need to consider a light beer. Deep ruby/plum purple, with loads of blueberry and black currant fruit, underlying crushed rock notes and some floral scents are all present in this remarkable wine that sells at a full retail markup of $10.00, which is simply incredible! These are the kind of wines I wish had existed when I was in college.

90 pts

Appellation: Santa BarbaraVarietal Composition: 100% ChardonnayAcid: .66 g/100mlpH: 3.47Aging: Stainless steel with six months on the leesAlcohol: 13.9%

Naked Chardonnay: The PuristBrisk, refreshing and bold in its rejection of oak, our Naked Chardonnay is the essence of sunny Santa Barbara, California. Luscious aromas and flavors shine bright without being hidden under a heavy cloud of oak. Naked Chardonnay was fermented in stainless steel to preserve the wine’s fruit character, while aging on the lees for six months rounds out the mouthfeel and adds a hint of creme brulee to the finish.

Winemaker’s CommentsWith fresh aromas of guava and apricot, Naked Chardonnay defines summer in a glass. Juicy flavors of Granny Smith apple and yellow peach, along with bright acidity and a crisp finish will have you coming back for more and more.

A great wine to pair with grilled shrimp, oysters, roast chicken or simply sip on its own.

We don’t care if you drink with your clothes on or off, just drink Naked.

2013 Four Vines “Naked” Chardonnay

88pts -Wine Spectator

2013 Four Vines “Naked” Chardonnay

Four Vines Chardonnay Santa Barbara County Naked Unoaked 2013

This offers a mix of citrus-infused green apple, pineapple and mango notes, presented in a fresh, snappy style, with flavors that linger on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 50,000 cases made.

88 ptsBest Value

2011 Marques deCaceres Crianza

Grape Varieties: 85% Tempranillo, 10% Garnacha Tinta, 5% GracianoWinemakers Ramon Veiga & Emilio Gonzalez

Vineyards and YieldsSelection of parcels from 15-25 year-old vineyards, located in Rioja Alta (85%) Rioja Alavesa (15%). Low yields of 35HL/ha on average.

SoilMainly clay and limestone. Some parcels in Rioja Alta with ferrous subsoil.

Predominant ClimateMild, Atlantic climate with marked seasons.

Harvesting100% manual, parcel by parcel.

VinificationThe grapes are de-stemmed and crushed. Alcoholic fermentation at controlled temperatures starting off at 10°C to reach 28°C. Prolonged skin-contact maceration up to 20 days. Malolactic fermentation in stainless-steel tanks. Once this process has finalized, the wines are put into barrels for aging with racking every six months.

Total Time In Barrel12 months in French (60%) and American (40%) oak barrels, spilt equally between, new barrels and 2, 3, and 4 year-old (maximum) barrels.

Aging In Bottle1 year minimum before release.

Tasting NotesDeep, ruby red color. Fresh bouquet of strawberries, raspberries, wrapped in vanilla and sweet spice. Clean and lively in the mouth where ripe tannins blend with nicely balanced structure. Fleshy and full of flavor to delight the palate at all times. Serve 16°C

85pts -Wine Spectator

Marques de Caceres Rioja Crianza 2011

Leafy, licorice and spicy notes frame a core of cherry and vanilla in this broad red, with light, firm tannins and a savory finish. Drink now through 2017. 93,000 cases imported.

85 pts

2011 Marques deCaceres Crianza

2012 Seven Falls Cabernet Sauvignon

Vineyards: Mrachek, Jones, ShawAVA: Wahluke SlopepH: 3.74TA: 0.57 g/100mLAlcohol: 14.5%Barrel Aging: 18 months: 60% French Oak, 40% American OakBlend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Seven Falls WineryNestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Seven Falls Cellars was inspired by a series of seven waterfalls that once flowed along the Columbia River through what is now known as the Wahluke Slope. The warm climate and ideal terroir is perfect for creating big, bold wines with outstanding structure. Allowing the bounty of flavors to shine through as well as capturing the unique character of region is the winemaking philosophy at Seven Falls Cellars. The grapes are selected from prime vineyard sites and picked at the peak of flavor. All varieties are barrel aged in a combination of French and American oak to give the finished wines depth of flavor, exquisite balance with an elegant finish.

Tasting NoteRipe black cherry and boysenberry layered with notes of caramel, mocha and black tea. Concentrated, full body with a smooth lasting finish.

Pairing SuggestionsGrilled meats, game meat, braised meats, hamburgers

90pts -Wine Enthusiast

Seven Falls 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Wahluke Slope)

This wine has immediate appeal showing aromas of milk chocolate, cherry and dried herbs. The flavors are plump and rich in feel yet backed by soft tannins.

90 pts

2012 Seven Falls Cabernet Sauvignon

Harvest Sugar: 23.6º BrixTotal Acidity: 0.62 g/100mlpH: 3.13Alcohol: 13.8%Bottled: March 2015

The VineyardsThe grapes for this wine were selected from vineyards throughout the diverse appellations of Sonoma County including Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Knights Valley and Sonoma Valley. Each of these growing regions provides its own expression in the fruit, making our final blend highlight the signature of Sauvignon Blanc in Sonoma County.

WinemakingThe grapes were harvested in the cool morning hours and upon arrival at the winery sent directly to press. This bright, fresh, crisp style of Sauvignon Blanc undergoes fermentation primarily in stainless steel tanks to retain the fruit-forward flavors. A very small amount of Semillon is blended in to add richness and texture. The final wine is assembled and bottled under screwcap and is best enjoyed in it its youth.

Tasting NotesThe Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc offers a bright and fragrant nose of lemon citrus, fresh peach and fig fruit and subtle orange blossom notes. The nose leads to a flavorful palate where the nose rings true with vibrant lemon, sweet apple and honey flavors. The wine has a core of vibrant lemon-lime acidity which gives a long, flavorful finish.

2014 Chateau St. JeanSauvignon Blanc

87 pts -Wine Spectator

Appellations: CaliforniaAging: 100% French OakRelease Date: March 2015Alcohol: 13.1%pH: 3.64Acidity: .53

About Block NineOur family started Block Nine in response to changes in the Pinot Noir market. Demand for moderately priced Pinot Noir has spiked over the last few years. Large, mass marketed brands brought most of the Pinot to the market leaving consumers with few choices of smaller production Pinot Noir from California. This is our focus. We make only Pinot Noir.

Winemaker’s Tasting NotesThe 2014 Block Nine Pinot is beautifully long and rich in ripe cherry and berry flavors. The aromas exhibit generous bright fruit with a mix of strawberry, violets, plum, tea, and a hint of clove. Flavorful and silky in the mouth with good body, this wine is seductive showing wild cherries and a hint of sandalwood to complete its complex finish. The 2014 growing season was generous is length and consistent temperatures. Flavors were strong at harvest and we think 2014 will prove to be a terrific vintage.

Winemaker Larry LevinAfter completing his Enology degree at UC Davis, Larry spent seventeen years at Dry Creek Vineyard. He has since covered the globe by making wine in New Zealand, Chile, and Australia. He previously was head of winemaking at Franciscan, Mt. Veeder, Robert Mondavi, Estancia, Ravenswood, and Quintessa.

2014 Block Nine Pinot Noir

Producer: MeliniWine Color: RedRegion: TuscanyCountry: ItalyBlend: Sangiovese - 85%, others - 15%Total Alcohol: 13%Total Acidity: 5.10 g/LpH: 3.4Residual Sugar: 3.5g/L

SummaryChianti re-imagined. A re-interpretation of a modern classic. Re-invigoration of over three hundred years of values that are still relevant today. Melini Chianti Riserva brings together the old and new worlds to reinvent the classic Tuscan red wine. Made from Sangiovese grosso and aged for 18 months in French oak, this wine brings together the modern and the classic. Sourced by Melini from the traditional vineyards in Chianti, located in areas with the best exposure and terroir.

TerroirThis Chianti Riserva is sourced from traditional vineyards selected by Melini for their ideal exposure, climate and soils. Soils are primarily alberese and galestro loose, gravel soils made up of schist and limestone- typical to the Chianti region. The vines are thickly planted and then trained using the Guyot and spurred cordon methods.

VinificationThe grapes are cold-macerated on their skins for three to four days followed by a cool fermentation in stainless steel. The wines are aged for 18 months in French oak cask followed by 3-6 months in bottle prior to release.

Tasting NotesThe 2012 Chianti Riserva is bright ruby red in color with a nose of raspberry, blackberry and a touch of violet. On the palate the wine is medium in body with soft, jammy berry fruit, spice and a firm finish.

87 pts -Wine Spectator

2012 Melini Reserva Chianti

87 ptsMelini Chianti Riserva 2012

Lean and fluid, offering cherry, blackberry, spice and tobacco aromas and flavors. Firm, with the structure for tomato-based sauces and salumi. Drink now through 2018. 6,700 cases imported.

2012 Melini Riserva Chianti

Producer: Bodeha El EstecoWine Color: RedRegion: Cafayate ValleyCountry: ArgentinaBlend: Malbec - 100%

SummaryThe Don David range are the flagship wines of the Bodega El Esteco estate named in homage to the winery founder David Michel.

TerroirEach selection in the Don David range is sourced from entirely estate owned vineyards throughout the Cafayate Valley. Vineyards sit at elevations well above 3,000 feet with many sitting above 6,000 feet. The power of the sun at these elevations combined with very little moisture or pests leads to wines of unique purity and concentration.

VinificationConcentration and varietal expression are the goals of both the red and white wines in this range. The red wines undergo a 5 hour thin covering maceration which extracts additional concentration followed by more than a week of cold maceration in steel tank and 9 months in the cellars in a combination of French and American oak.

The flagship red varietal of Argentina. This wine shows plum, red fruits, spicy black cherries and cassis with toasted oak notes on the nose and palate. Ripe fruit and linear acidity balance strong but soft, ripe tannins.

Tasting Notes“Displaying expressive plum jam, raisin and pipe tobacco aromas, with toasty vanilla notes, the wine has balanced, spicy dark fruits and cassis, almond and nutty notes on the long finish.”

2013 Don DavidMalbec Reserve

88pts -Vinous

2013 Don DavidMalbec Reserve

88 ptsDon David Malbec 2013

The vineyards of the Cafayate Valley sit at elevations well above 3,000 feet with many sitting above 6,000 feat - among the highest in the world. The power of the sun at these elevations combined with very little moisture or pests leads to wines of unique purtiy and concentration.

Displaying an expressive plum jam, raisin and pipe tobacco aromas, with toasty vanilla notes, the wine has balanced, spicy dark fruits and cassis, almond and nutty notes on the long finish.

Alcohol: 14%Total Acidity: 0.58 g/100 mlpH: 3.41Blend: 100% Chardonnay

Tasting Notes“Our Indian Wells Chardonnay delivers an appealing tropical fruit character typical of warm sites like the Wahluke Slope. I like this Chardonnay’s ripe pineapple and butterscotch flavors and creamy texture. Try it with scallops, scampi or pasta with rich sauces.” -Bob Bertheau, Winemaker

Vintage2014 in Eastern Washington was one of the warmest seasons in decades. The ripening period in September cooled to more typical weather for the region. In October temperatures rose again to one of the warmest October months on record.

Overall 2014 was an ideal growing season; ripening was excellent for all varieties in all locations.

VineyardsOver half of the Chardonnay fruit came from vineyards throughout Washington’s Wahluke Slope. Our most northern growing area, the Wahluke Slope, is bordered on both the west and the south by the Columbia River.

The region’s warm days cause the grapes to assert sweet citrus and tropical characteristics, while the cool nights promote good structure, balance and flavor intensity.

WinemakingRipe grapes were lightly pressed and inoculated with yeast designed for accentuated, fruit-forward flavors.

100% sur lie aged for five months to integrate the fruit and oak flavors and provide a rich mouthfeel.

Barrel aged in 35% new American and French oak barrels.

Malolactic fermentation also took place to add softness, balance and depth.

Food PairingsFoods: Salmon, fresh crab, pork, poultryHerbs: Lemon zest, tarragon, thyme

2014 Chateau Ste. MichelleIndian Wells Chardonnay

90pts -Wine Spectator

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2014 Indian Wells Chardonnay (Columbia Valley (WA))

Barrel spice, pineapple, butterscotch and candlewax aromas are followed by full-bodied tropical-fruit flavors. It displays a lot of richness but retains its sense of balance.

90 pts

2014 Chateau Ste. MichelleIndian Wells Chardonnay

Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay Columbia Valley Indian Wells 2014

Bright and sleek, with pretty apple and floral flavors, finishing on a creamy note. Drink now. 90,000 cases made.

87 pts

2014 Josh Cellars Chardonnay

Blend: 100% ChardonnayAppellation: CaliforniaCooperage Treatment: New French Oak for 8 months. (30% New)Alcohol: 13.68%TA: 6.0 g/LpH: 3.38RS: 1.62 g/L

StyleBalanced with aromas of tropical fruits and citrus married with subtle oak notes. The palate is a harmony of fresh yellow and white stone fruits that linger, finishing with a fresh and clean acidity.

WinemakingThe grapes were picked at optimal ripeness in the cool of the morning. The fruit was pressed and allowed to cold settle for 24 hours. The juice was fermented on oak and kept cold (55°F) to retain the lively aromatics.

SourcingPremium cool-climate wine growing regions throughout the state including Mendocino and Monterey counties.

Vineyard Sources: Clarksburg, Sonoma County and Monterey CountyBarrel Program: 100% barrel aged in American oak for 12 monthspH: 3.64Acidity: 0.57 g/100mlAlcohol: 13.5%

From The WinemakerCabernet Sauvignon is a grape that takes its own sweet time, slowly lingering to ripen on the vine. We are rewarded by its reluctance.Irresistible vanilla and intriguing black plums lay way to the dense and concentrated wine that is the Cabernet Sauvignon. Deeply extracted and complex dark fruit enhance the full-bodied character, and touches of toasted hazelnut and spicy clove are left by the 12 months of aging in one year old American oak. Ample tannins and an enduring finish will allow this wine to cellar for another 6-8 years, but don’t let anyone say you can’t enjoy it now...

Served Best WithWhile you should feel free to enjoy this wine with nearly any food pairing, a few of our favorites are:Rib-eye Steak with Blue Cheese ButterRoasted Eggplant with Provolone CheeseDark Chocolate Mousse with Fresh Berries

2013 Bogle Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: America / California / Sonoma ValleyGrapes: 100% MerlotpH: 3.87Acidity: 0.59ABV: 14.4%Aging: 16 months in French Oak barrel

Joe Martin was the first grower to plant Merlot in Sonoma Valley. Merlot thrives in this picturesque valley where warm days are cooled by evening breezes and fog from the Pacific Ocean. The grapes in Sonoma Valley Merlot come from our Estate Behler and Wild Oak vineyards, as well as from top growers throughout the area. Each carefully selected vineyard contributes distinctive and individual qualities to the finished wine.

The grapes are gently de-stemmed and crushed before cold soaking for three days to extract optimal color and flavor. The fruit is inoculated with many different yeast strains to build complexity and fermented in separate lots using a combination of pump overs and delestage to soften tannins. Secondary malolactic fermentation occurs in 100% French oak barrels.

Harvest NoteWith ideal weather and an abundance of exceptional fruit, it’s no secret the 2012 harvest was outstanding. Warm, moderate temperatures throughout the growing season allowed our fruit to reach the perfect state of ripeness without sacrificing balance and intensity. With no heat spikes, cold weather or rain, the fruit ripened evenly and developed great color and concentrations, producing wines with rich flavors and excellent structure.

Tasting NoteThis is what Merlot is all about: rich and luscious with layered flavors and aromas of dark chocolate, black cherry and baked plum with a touch of spice. This wine is full-bodied and silky smooth with a long, lingering finish. Awarded a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

Food PairingExcellent with beef, duck and blue cheese.

2012 St. Francis Merlot

2012 St. Francis Merlot

88 ptsSt. Francis Merlot Sonoma Valley 2012

Straightforward and focused, with appealing flavors of red currant, toasted spice and herb. Drink now through 2020. 32,000 cases made.