Friday, February 26, 2016

Els Bassotets Reunion

Cellars Escoda Sanahuja presents this beautiful white wine, Els Bassotets from Conca de Barbera in Catalonia, Spain. A blend of Macabeu and Chenin Blanc.

It's hard for me to express what it meant to find this wine at Punchdown last week. When I saw it on the menu, only for sale by-the-glass, I immediately was flooded with memories of the first time I tried it. 

I've already wrote about that magical evening in  the small village of Begur when we discovered it. Trying it again now, while so far from the place where love is spoken, was bittersweet. 

It brought me comfort to know that some things can come back to you and still be as wonderful as the first time you met.  

Le Raisin a Plume 'Le Moulin', Loire, France

I
I typically find Melon de Bourgogne (or, Melon) a bit challenging. Sometimes the wine seems too concentrated or not enough. However, I found this wine delightful. It seems to represent the best of what Melon can be. A little crisp with hints of lemon and sweet apple balanced with minerality that I often associate with 'saltiness'.  A real find for us on the West Coast and under $20. Now, the only challenge will be is to find more. 

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Punchdown ... Round 1.



Punchdown re-opened in its new space a few weeks ago and I stopped by to check it out. Here's a look at Round 1 of many purchases to come. 

But, before you go, ask yourself, do you want to fall in love? Because, if you're like me, you will. With everything DC & Lisa have thoughtfully sourced for the shop and with them. 

I have tried almost all of the wines in the picture above- because, well, it is research. And, I have to say, I can not wait for Round 2! 

Jolly Ferriol, Chardonnay is reductive, interesting, salty like the sea and left me feeling warm and glowing -- like the sun. It's way too good to be under $20. But, don't tell them! Just go buy whatever is left. 

Francois Saint Lo, Le Chenin de Vie, is a Chenin Blanc that makes me wish I could drink only this wine, always. It represents all the things I love about Chenin Blanc and natural wine. And, it reminds me of chance meetings and falling in love. I think it's a good sign.

Assenza Falanghini by Antica Masseria Venditti makes me proud to be Italian and feel lucky to be alive. It's a 0/0 sulfite wine without adding any yeast or enzymes. The label and bottle are bold and sturdy but the wine is delicate, slightly floral and beautifully balanced. I feel like it holds itself with dignity and I feel safe with it in my hand.

So, yeah, these are all knock-outs. But, the best part about Punchdown can't be bottled. It's so much the effervescence of Lisa and the earthiness of DC. They are very well-balanced. 

Feeling very lucky to have such a great natural wine shop and restaurant in my backyard. 

Brumaire, Natural Wine Fair, RELOCATED: OAKLAND, CA



Like many who start out in San Francisco... Brumaire has relocated to OAKLAND, CA.  But, before you blame Obama, it seems an 'atmospheric river' is headed directly for Crissy Field. 

With the Presidio no longer an option the historic Starline Social Club Grand Ballroom is opening their doors to save natural wine fanatics of the Bay Area.

I'm always hoping for a natural wine event to come through town. Brumaire is more than this girl could ever hope.

Brumaire seems to live up to the promise that natural wine carries in spirit... wine, beauty, discovery, friendship, food and savoring. 

This event will include such producers as Julien Guillot, Hank Beckmeyer, Tony Coturri, Gideon Beinstock, Christophe Foucher and many others (see list below). The list is full of winemakers who represent a commitment to making wine that is true to the soil from which it grows.
  
It is no easy decision to farm and ferment naturally. This is hard work and deserves to be rewarded and enjoyed.

Additionally, many wine shops and restaurants will be hosting winemakers and dinners especially for the winemakers included in Brumaire.

To buy tickets: http://ordinairewine.com/shop

From Ordinaire: https://www.facebook.com/brumairesf/info/?tab=page_info

Preliminary producer list:
Joan Ramon Escoda
Laureano Serres (Mendall)
Cantina Giardino
Christophe Foucher (La Lunotte)
Julien Guillot (Clos des Vignes du Maynes)
Brendan Tracey
Bichi
Tony Coturri
Gideon Beinstock (Clos Saron)
Chris Scanlan (Pain and Glory Cellars)
Ambyth Estate
Ryan Stirm (Stirm Wine Co.)
Chad Hinds (Methode Sauvage)
Living Wines Collective
Hank Beckmeyer (La Clarine Farm)
J Brix
Donkey & Goat
Purity Wines
Dani Rozman (La Onda)
La Garagista


"BRUMAIRE” is a wine tasting based in San Francisco, California. This event will bring together natural winemakers from Europe and the United States for the first time. It is conceived as a way for consumers, the press and the trade to meet producers, drink natural wine, and eat delicious food.

The main tasting will feature growers from Spain, France, Italy, and California and will take place on March 13th, from 12pm to 6pm, in the West Bluff Amphitheater at Crissy Field. The event is free for all attendees, with a suggested donation of $20, which includes a tasting glass and lunch. You may reserve in advance with DOMAINE LA or ORDINAIRE.

Other tastings, dinners and parties are being planned throughout the weekend with local caves, bars and restaurants.