Me, Dr.Bob, my bro Rohit and my Pops got to have lunch with the winemaker rep Pablo of Castillo de Molina today. I was very glad to quaff their chardonnay for the first time, as it was tremendously pleasing as an opener for the ensuing onslaught of fresh seafood at Trulocks. Not overly oaked and very fragrant, the palate had a svelte creaminess along with a sprite tinge to effervesence that brought out all the lovely shapeliness of the grape.

We followed with my favorite carmenere on our shelf. A wonderful round mouthfeel of dark smokey cherries with deep earthy mushrooms and wet soil tones, this quaff was soo pleasing i returned to it after the merlot and cab sauv were poured and tasted around the table. The carmenere opened up through the course of the meal with distinct notes of bitter cocoa and cassis and coffee overtones, delving into the classic Bourdeau structures the define big character and artful balance. The merlot and cab were equally large and charactered.

Following along the lines of these wonderful bottles, we talked about placement and sales of differing varietals in our shop. Just this past week, we reset the shelves enabling us to carry a greater selection of premium and discount table wines. Our sales rep as well as importer each made note that the Molina we carry is now placed within other domestic varietals, such as Clos Du Bois or Ravenswood. I indicated that according to our shelf orientation, we now have a wall of Old World and New World wines. Old World items are organized by the regions within France, Italy, Spain and whatnot, while New World wines are presented by grape varietal. Thus, the Molina is available not within a vineyard family, but rather amongst the other merlots or chardonnay, and most importantly with the limited carmenere that is available. I pointed out to the winemaker that coupling his import with domestic items within the New World orientation would help sales, as someone who would normally go for domestic fare would stumble on his Chilean offering with surprise as well as pleasure. So far, this placement has not only confused the common buyer, but actually impressed vinific excursions by other daring members of the 'hood. I'm pleased to offer the Molina line alongside the few listed below from Araucana (also Chilean):

Sauv Blanc 2003
With a classic grassy nose, the tropical melon palate charms with a svelte viscosity and acidic finish. Yummer for the summer.
Chardonnay 2003
The fruity nose starts off the quaff and follows with a big melon mouthful and not too oaky or yeasty butter bomb to complement. This is good stuff
Carmenere 2004
Smokey nose with thick jams and spice hints of cardamon and cocoa. Quite full bodied and tannically balance, very delicious and pleasing.
Cab Sauv 2003
A big palate of very jammy plums and spices with dry notes of earth and supple toasty vanilla to finish with tannic support. Quite excellent.

yumitup,
~d