2/28/2022 Newsletter

Greetings from the Wine Cellar:

This Thursday brings the last installment of Thursday Jazz in the Park at the Colorado River State Historic Park here in historic Downtown Yuma (201 N. 4th Avenue). This last concert will feature a performance by San Diego’s Holly Hofmann. Considered one of the best jazz flute players in the world today, Hofmann has produced multiple albums with her own groups and also has appeared in concert with nationally known jazz artists. The performance begins at 6PM. Food and drink will be available for purchase on site from Autentico Sapore Italiano Italian deli located within the park – Mario tells me he will remain open throughout the performance.

Also Thursday, Yuma’s annual Midnight at the Oasis event officially kicks off with the Fun Run from Desert Hills to Downtown. Once they make it down here, the Rally on Main Street goes on until 8PM, with many classic cars parked along Main for visitors to enjoy. It’s a lot of fun taking in these lovingly restored vintage autos, so come on down and join in the fun – and be sure to stop by the Wine Cellar when you do!

FEATURED WINES THIS WEEK

Marchesi Antinori 2020 Chardonnay Bramito della Sala (Umbria, Italy) $21.99

The Bramìto della Sala is straw yellow in color. The nose opens with notes of white flower blossoms followed with light citrusy sensations. It’s deliciously crisp and fresh, with an easy drinkability. A tangy mineral character enlivens a long and savory finish.

Sassoregale 2018 Sangiovese (Tuscany, Italy) $15.99

A perfect expression of Tuscan Sangiovese, this shows classic varietal aromas of spiced black cherries, accented with subtle hints of dry herbs and earth. On the palate, a bath of sweet red currants is supported by gripping tannins, finishing up with a savory richness.

McBride Sisters 2018 Red Blend (Central Coast) $17.99

This proprietary blend of Merlot, Zinfandel, Malbec and Petite Sirah was aged in a mix of French, American and Hungarian oak barrels. Aromas of cherries and plums dominate the nose, with a backdrop of cedar and vanilla. In the mouth it’s an elegant and balanced red, with rich dark fruit flavors and soft, easy tannins.

La Nerthe 2018 Côtes du Rhône Villages Les Cassagnes (Rhone Valley, France) $21.99

Power, structure and color are the signatures of this Côtes du Rhône. In the glass it’s a deep crimson, with violet hints. On the nose, vivid scents of red and black fruits along with floral and spice notes emerge. On the palate it’s fleshy and round, with a pleasing warmth.

Quilt 2019 Fabric of the Land Red (Napa Valley) $32.99

This is a blend of Petite Sirah, Merlot, Zinfandel and Petit Verdot grapes from premier Napa Valley vineyards. Aromas of blackberries, spices, dark chocolate and vanilla mingle on the nose. A rich palate offers vibrant flavors of ripe black cherries, chocolate and rosemary on a velvety mouthfeel.

NEW WINE & BEER ARRIVALS

Freemark Abbey 2020 Chardonnay (Napa Valley) $35.99

This is a rich, nuanced and complex Chardonnay. The nose exudes aromas of baked apple, creamy meringue, juicy orange and fresh peach. The palate is clean and balanced, offering flavors of tropical nectar, orange marmalade, baking spices, butterscotch and vanilla. It’s vibrant and balanced, yet still nicely creamy, with a long, savory finish.

Frescobaldi 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo (Tuscany, Italy) $69.99

A classic Brunello from one of Montalcino’s most respected producers. The bouquet is luscious and intense, with complex hints of oak toast, cinnamon, cherry, raspberry and dried oregano. It’s concentrated and ultra-smooth on the palate, with deep dark berry and plum fruit supported by velvety tannins.

Complicated 2018 Pinot Noir (Monterey County) $17.99

Complicated is a cool-climate Monterery County Pinot Noir, sourced from a hillside vineyard situated high above the Salinas Valley. Aromas of dark cherry and pomegranate show upfront, with nuances of lavender and cinnamon. The palate offers flavors of cherries, red raspberries and currants.

Wren House Brewing Valley Lager (Phoenix) $4.99

This is a real, honest-to-goodness American Lager. Brewed using flaked corn, American Lager yeast and a dose of Saaz hops, this unfiltered lager is incredibly sessionable, yet equally memorable, a truly refreshing brew.

Cheers!

Mike Shelhamer
Old Town Wine Cellar
265 S. Main Street, Suite E
Yuma, Arizona 85364
928-373-0405