D. Byrne & Co. Summer Newsletter

In a fit of enthusiasm we have entitled this blog 'The Summer Newsletter', may I just add that we reserve the right to post a 'Proper Summer Newsletter' when summer does, finally, get here. In the mean time, here are some great wines to keep you going - lower alcohol wines, fabulous Rhones, a report of a terrific Lebanese Evening & wines of Chateau Musar and finally the best cognac offer you're going to see this year, enjoy!

Lower alcohol wines are all the rage.
Quite a few customers have asked us for a few wines lower in alcohol to enjoy on those 'hoped for' balmy summer evenings. We have put together a selection of some particularly fresh, well-balanced examples that will provide fine drinking during the warm summer months, and before you laugh, we have put in a request for a sunny summer.

Whites
2011 Les Oliviers Sauvignon Blanc/Colombard Cotes de Gascogne 12% vol. £5.69
Typically crisp citrus fruits with added fat from the more tropical Colombard.
2010 Joseph Burrier Macon Vergisson Burgundy 13% vol. £10.99
A fine wine from the south of the Burgundy region which reflects the near perfect growing season of 2010.
2008 Joseph Matrot St. Romain Burgundy 12.5% vol. £16.99
Matrot produce particularly fine white Burgundy. The style here is all elegance, refinement and minerality.
2009 Bourgogne Blanc Gerard Thomas Burgundy 13% vol. £10.99
Concentrated and fruity Burgundy from a fine domaine.
2012 Duc de Mornay Picpoul de Pinet Languedoc 13% vol. £6.99
Bring a taste of the Languedoc coast to your dining table.
2011 Terres de Granit Pinot Blanc - Alsace 12% vol. £8.99
Just off dry with elegant soft stone fruit flavours. A really lovely aperitif!
2009 Blanc Fume de Pouilly Domaine Didier Dageneau - Loire
12.5% vol. £39.99

2009 Silex Blanc Fume de Pouilly Domaine Didier Dageneau 13%vol. £59.99

A superstar Domaine now in the capable hands of Louis Benjamin Dageneau. The ultimate expression of Sauvignon Blanc.
2012 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc - Marlborough 12.5% £9.99
Fresh cut grass aromas and a burst of tropical fruits.
2011 Innocent Bystander Chardonnay - Yarra Valley 12.5% £10.59
Fresh and juicy with citrus and tropical fruit notes.
2012 Ciconia Antao Vaz/Viognier/Verdelho - Alentejo 13% vol. £6.99
This is clean and delicious with passion fruit and white flowers.
2011 Vesevo Beneventano Falanghina Campania 13% vol. £9.59
A refreshing lemon scented wine from the native Falanghina grape.
2012 Cantina Paolini Grillo Baccaria - Sicily 12.5% vol. £6.69
Honeyed candied peel characters and an appealing nutty, almond finish. Excellent value!
2012 Raza Vinho Verde 12% vol. £7.59
A truly authentic Vinho Verde with crisp sherbet lemon fruits and a lightness and drinkability all of its own. Perfect with sardines.
2012 Naire Verdejo Toro 12.5% £6.99
Fresh tropical fruits and a crisp vibrant mouth-feel, a very clean wine.
2011 La Liebre y la Tortuga Albarino Rias Baixas 12.5% vol. £9.99
The highly fashionable Albarinos from Galicia make a delicious accompaniment to fine seafood. A delicious wine filled with racy green fruits.

Reds
 2011 Ponte del Diavolo Refosco Friuli 12.5% £7.39
Crisp and crunchy red fruits, this is light and refreshing. Perfect with tomato based pasta dishes.
2011 Poderi Colla Dolcetto D'Alba Pian Balbo, Piemonte 12% vol. £9.89
Fresh and crunchy red fruits with fine acidity. Serve lightly chilled with pizza and anti pasti.
2011 Contesa Vigna Corvina Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 13% vol. £7.59
Plums and damsons with some ripe chocolaty tannins.
2012 Patrice Armand Cotes du Rhone 13% vol £5.99
From an elegant Southern Rhone vintage, this is fresh and spicy.
2012 Les Cepages Oublies Cinsault/Grenache Pays D'Oc 13% vol £6.99
A sweet perfume of mild cranberries tipped with sweet exotic spices.
2009 Matrot Bourgogne Rouge, Burgundy 12% £12.99 In ripe vintages such as 2009 Bourgogne Rouge can be particularly enticing and excellent value for money, this is a textbook example.
2010 Champs du Chene Julienas, Beaujolais 13% vol. £8.39
Julienas is one of the finest of the Beaujolais Crus. This wine shows real concentration, a hallmark of the outstanding 2010 vintage.

2008 Chateau Cantemerle 5er Cru Classe Haut Medoc, Bordeaux 13% vol. £28.99
Cantemerle is a very reliable Chateau, producing a string of excellent wines since the 2004 vintage. In Bordeaux terms this is a bargain, well balanced and age worthy.
2011 Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley 13% vol. £11.79
One of the best value now world Pinots. From the premium wine growing area of Yarra Valley, this is silky smooth with textbook aromas and flavours.
2011 Beyra Tinto, Beira Interior 13.5% vol. £7.99
A fresh, modern Portuguese red from high altitude vineyards south of the Douro. This has beautifully crisp and crunchy red fruits.
2012 El Tesoro Monastrell/Shiraz Jumilla 13% vol. £5.49
This bargain priced Spanish red has rich black cherry fruit and a twist of spice.
2010 Dirk Niepoort Drink Me Douro Tinto, Douro Valley 13% vol. £9.99
One of the great innovators of the Douro, Dirk Niepoort produces wonderfully authentic Portuguese wines from native grapes.
2012 Naire Tempranillo, Toro 13% vol. £6.99
A soft and sweetly fruited wine with vibrant plum and damson fruits.

SEASONAL CASES

The Everyday Case - wines of exceptional value for money.
£60.99 if collected from the shop and £69.99 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius.

The Spring Case - perfect for that transition from Spring into Summer
£79.89 if collected from the shop and £88.00 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius.



LEBANESE WINES

On the 11th May we were lucky enough to attend a Lebanese evening at The Parkers Arms hosted by the Country Pub themselves in association with Ralph Hochar of Chateau Musar. Lebanese wine has a very ancient history dating back to 4500 BC and has its origins in the Bekaa valley surrounded by two impressive mountain ranges. The Hochar family arrived in the Lebanon from France in the 12th century and Chateau Musar was founded by the family in 1930.
Though we have championed their wines for many many years, it was refreshing to try a wide range with the food of the country of origin. We were very impressed with what we found on both counts.
Chateau Musar Jeune Rose 2011 £8.99
Best served gently chilled, the colour is vividly bright, reminiscent of redcurrants, and indeed the fruit is there too on the palate, together with cranberries, raspberries and a hint of rose water.
This was a delightful aperitif served with a meze of falafels, pomegranate crusted sausages and 'Khobez' flat bread with za'atar.
Chateau Musar Jeune Red 2010 £8.99
A youthful wine grown at altitude. The 2011 vintage was challenging leading to late maturation, but the resulting wine is very balanced. The palate is fresh & fruity with blueberries, blackcurrants and red plums. The tannins are soft, long and warm. We enjoyed this with 'Chorba Mloukhiyeh', a deliciously light chicken and Jew's mallow broth served with shallot vinegar and Lebanese bread croutons.
Hochar Pere et Fils Red 2007 £11.59
Aromas of leather, cigar box, tea leaves and spices and a palate of plums, prunes, dates and figs and sweet spices such as cardamom. In other words exotic to the last sip and thoroughly enticing. The wine was a wonderful match with local venison tartar, cracked wheat, olive oil, red onions cumin and tomatoes.
Chateau Musar White 2005 £16.59
Rich lemon in colour with aromas of tropical fruits, pineapple, lychee, pears and apricots. A rather remarkable multi-layered wine, which balanced perfectly the cumin spice of the 'Siyadiyeh', the hake with caramelised onion pilaf with lemon sauce.
Chateau Musar Red 2005 £18.99
This wine is only released by the winery when they consider it to be fully mature and ready for drinking. This is their current release and was thoroughly enjoyed by all present on the evening. Almost medicinal hints along with all the delights of figs, mocha, leather and juicy red plums. A wine almost designed to accompany the 'Lahem Meshwi', local milk fed lamb, aubergine confit and lamb fat roasted potatoes.

Chateau Musar Arak £20.59

A new experience for many of us, daughter Ruth has become a firm fan! Probably best not drunk neat, Ralph Hochar suggested one part arak to two parts water. Smooth, refreshing and very easy in the mouth even without the addition of water, a very sophisticated arak.
The arak was enjoyed alongside the 'Labneh halwa' (soft curd cheese with pistachio croustillant and amar el din sorbet with rosehip jelly) and Lebanese petit fours with Cardomom infused coffee.



By the end of the evening many of us were planning our visits to The Lebanon  but you don't have to, all the wines are available from the shop! We also keep a good selection of other Lebanese wines if you would like to experiment - you won't regret it!

One or two others you might try:
2012       Domaine des Tourelles White £8.59
2011/12 Domaine des Tourelles Rose £8.59
2010       Domaine des Tourelles Red £8.59
2010       Domaine des Tourelles Marquis des Beys Red £18.99
2009       Chateau Ka Red £8.99
2010/11 Massaya Classic Red £9.99
2010       Massaya Silver Red £14.99

2009 / 2010 / 2011 Rhones
Very fine wines and equally fine value for money.
These have been some of the finest vintages for the Rhone in recent years and in our opinion are now offering some of the greatest value to be had from any wine region in the world.
2011       Domaine Belles Granges Syrah Pays de Collines Rhodaniennes £7.59
2010       Les Coteaux Cotes de Rhone Villages £7.39
2009/10  Les Coteaux Schisteux Seguret Cotes du Rhone Villages £9.99
2009/10  Les Cote Sauvage Cairanne Cotes du Rhone Villages £10.99
2010       Domaine de l'Espigouttes Violes, Vacqueyras £12.69
2009       Domaine Le Couroulu Vieilles Vignes, Vacqueyras £14.89
2010       Domaine La Soumade Rasteau Villages £11.99
2010       Domaine La Soumade Rasteau Cuvee Prestige £14.99
2010       Domaine La Soumade Cuvee Violettes £21.99
2010       Domaine La Soumade Cuvee Confiance £21.99
2010       Domaine La Haute Marone, Les Cru des Dentelles de Montmirail Gigondas £12.29
2011       Domaine Les Florets Gigondas Les Florets £14.59
2011       Domaine Florent et Damien Burle Gigondas Cuvee Traditionelle £14.69
2011       Domaine Raspail Ay Gigondas £17.39
2010/11  Domaine La Soumade Gigondas £19.99
2009/10  Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Racines £22.89
2010       Domaine Fayolle Fils Crozes Hermitage Rouge Las Pontaix £13.99
2010       Domaine Fayolle Fils Crozes Hermitage Les Cornirets £17.19
2009       Domaine Michel Chapoutier Crozes Hermitage Les Varonniers £35.99
2009       Domaine Michel Chapoutier Saint Joseph Les Granits Rouge £37.99
2010       Yves Cuilleron Saint Joseph Rouge L'Amarybelle £18.99
2010       Domaine du Monteillet Saint Joseph Rouge Cuvee du Papy £20.19
2010       Domaine Vincent Paris Cornas Granit 30 £20.69
2010       Domaine Vincent Paris Cornas Granit 60 £23.69
2010       Domaine Vincent Paris Cornas La Geynale £34.99
2010       Domaine Philippe Faury Cote Rotie Reviniscence £30.89
2009       Domaine du Monteillet Cote Rotie Fortis £34.39
2009       Domaine Michel Chapoutier Cote Rotie La Mordoree £109.99
2009       Chateau de Beaucastel Coudelet de Beaucastel Cotes du Rhone £16.89
2009       Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape £55.49
2010       Domaine Chante Cigale Chateauneuf du Pape £17.89
2009       Domaine Chante Cigale Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes £29.39
2010       Clos du Mont Olivet Chateauneuf du Pape £23.29
2010       Clos du Mont Olivet Cuvee du Papet Chateauneuf du Pape £42.49
2010       Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape £24.99
2010       Pierre Usseglio Mon Aieul Chateauneuf du Pape £59.99
2010       Pierre Usseglio Deus Freres Chateauneuf du Pape £98.99
2010       Domaine Vieux Telegraph Chateauneuf du Pape £38.99
2010       Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf du Pape £25.19
2010       Domaine Saint Prefert Chateauneuf du Pape £31.49
2010       Domaine Saint Prefert Collection Charles Giraud Chateauneuf du Pape £45.99
2010       Domaine Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve £53.99
2010       Domaine Pegau Cuvee da Capo Chateauneuf du Pape £246.99
2009       Domaine Michel Chapoutier Ermitage Le Greffieux £112.99
2009       Domaine Michel Chapoutier Ermitage Le Meal £144.99

 











Provence Rose
Light and easy drinking and exceptional quality too

2012       Domaine de la Vieille Tour Rose Cotes de Provence £8.09
2012       Chateau La Moutete Grande Reserve Rose Cotes de Provence £9.39
2012       Rimauresq Cru Classe Rose Cotes de Provence £10.29


Andrew's Spirit recommendations

Ardbeg 10 Y.O. £35.99
A very sophisticated single Islay malt, non chill-filtered and bottled at a strength of 46% to retain maximum flavour.

From our range of over 80 different gins I've selected:
Caorunn Small Batch Scottish Gin £20.99
41% vol with some more unusual botanicals which include rowan berry and heather, bog myrtle, dandelion and the rare Coul Blush apple amongst others. Invigorating, long, refreshing, crisp and dry. Instead of lemon or lime, drink it with a freshly cut slice of red apple.

De Marcy Eminence X.O. Cognac £25.99
A terrific bargain - we managed to buy a small parcel at an unbeatable price, snap it up quickly! Very high quality cognac, rich and very smooth. 

One to keep in the fridge door!
De Soto Fino Sherry 15% vol. £7.29
Bone dry, fresh and clean, an excellent aperitif and a perfect wine with spicy Chinese food.


A final little fizz for the summer.....
Frassinelli Prosecco di Conegliano Valdobbiadene Extra dry £9.59
Given rave reviews by wine writer Jane Mcquitty in The Times
- a great value sparkling wine!

Orders or enquiries for any of the cases or wines in this newsletter, please apply by phone to the shop on 01200 423152 or 01200 422281- not by email, thank you.

  

A Night of Lebanese Food & Wine

A Night of Lebanese Food and Wine

On the 11th May 2013 The Parkers Arms will be hosting an epic Levantine feast of Eastern Mediterranean influenced food paired with the excellent wines of Chateau Musar. 

The evening will be hosted by the charming Ralph Hochar, member of the Chateau Musar family, who will take us through the tasting and share his passion for Musar wines with us. Their website can be visited here. As suppliers of wine for the evening we are looking forward once again to meeting Ralph as he showcases his wines for us.

Stosie Madi, chef and co owner of The Parkers Arms is born of a British Lebanese father and French mother, as a chef she has always taken inspiration from her Mediterranean roots. The food of her exciting ancestry will be produced using, as she is famous for, our local seasonal produce. The menu is inspired by childhood favourites of grand celebratory dishes learned from her grandmother, but cooked in Stosie's very distinct style.

For full details of the menu, please click here

Tickets for the event are available direct from The Parkers Arms by telephoning:
01200 446236
Details of the venue and available accommodation, if required can be found on their website:
http://www.parkersarms.co.uk/

The Spring Newsletter

The Spring Newsletter

A British Spring might bring snow one day and sun the next, so our wine rack needs to be able to accommodate our fickle tastes. With this in mind we have put together two beautiful cases of wine which should have everything you might need; firstly the new Everyday Case which constitutes great value for money and the new Easter Case. 

In this issue:
The new Everyday Case
The new Easter Case
Red & White Wines of the Month
Great finds from recent trade wine tastings
Andrew's Whisky Notes

The New Everyday Case

Cape Heights Viognier - South Africa

An exotic fruit driven Viognier, round and flavourful. Apricot and pear mingle with gentle acidity in a very well balanced wine.

Ca di Ponti Grillo - Italy

A stunning example of an underrated variety, subtle and restrained with delicate fruit and rich nutty aromas.

Sierra Grande Sauvignon Blanc - Chile

A classic Sauvignon Blanc nose with herbaceous notes and underlying ripeness, luscious exotic fruit aromas are balanced by clean zingy fruit flavours. Quaff with fish and chips, grilled fish and seafood.

Araldica Piemonte Cortese - Italy

Green apples, ripe grapefruit and lime cordial on the nose with honeysuckle and lightly honeyed hints on the palate. Try it with white meat, salads, white fish and shellfish or simply alone as an aperitif  soft and easy to drink.

Mas de Vigneron Sec, Pays des Cotes de Gascogne - France
A delicious fresh fragrant nose, zesty and invigorating, clean fresh and zippy. Hints of pink grapefruit are balanced by a refreshing lime acidity.
Araldica Barbera - Italy
A light juicy red with crushed raspberry aromas, gentle tannins and a touch of spice. Very easy drinking, excellent with pasta, pizza or grilled sausages, try serving slightly chilled.
Ca di Ponti Nero D'Avola - Italy
Full of blackcurrant fruit and hints of spice, this is rounded and weighty with an appealing sweetness of fruit on the finish. A wine for juicy home made burgers or lamb steaks.
Champs du Moulin Grenache - France
Mouth-filling black fruit dominates this deliciously soft, jammy and supple textured Grenache - summer pudding in a glass! Drink with grilled meat or pasta but great on its own.
Cape Heights Cabernet Sauvignon - South Africa
Displaying wonderful scents of ripe blackcurrants and spices, smooth and rounded in the mouth, it shows wonderful fruit purity and soft tannins.
Sierra Grande Merlot - Chile
Fragrant aromas of plum, strawberry and vanilla complemented by a hint of fresh herbs, sweetly fruited, well rounded, irresistibly easy drinking. A wine for steaks, casseroles and sausages.
Gran Tesoro Garnacha - Spain
This wonderful Grenache is brimming with rich juicy plum fruit and balanced with soft tannins. Round and easy drinking.
Bellefontaine Shiraz - France
Soft and elegant, bursting with flavour. A ripe and juicy Shiraz with dark fruit and cracked black pepper notes on the palate.

£60.99 if collected from the shop and  £69.00 delivered anywhere in the UK

Free delivery within a 30 mile radius

Easter Case

Domain Vision Viognier - France
A wonderfully aromatic Viognier, citrus fruit, pear and apricot mingle with gentle acidity to make a fruit driven, full flavoured palate. Rich vibrant and great with food.
False Bay Sauvignon - South Africa
Pure gooseberry, passion fruit and melon in a fat and flamboyantly fruity style, clean and very easy drinking.
K Naia Bodegas Naia Rueda - Spain
Vibrant pineapple and mango characters dominate the nose of this fine Rueda. Fresh citrus fruit and creamy notes fill the palate.
Les Volets Chardonnay - France
The nose is hugely aromatic with candied fruit, apricot and hints of toasted hazelnuts. This is a wine with great balance, elegant and intense fruit flavours fill the mouth.
Tabali Reserva Dry Muscat - Chile
An utterly delightful dry and beautifully perfumed muscat. Deep floral and fruity notes of rose and orange zest. Wonderful with Asian cuisine, salads, chicken and white fish dishes.
Peacock Ridge Shiraz - South Africa
Shiraz at its best, bright, juicy and incredibly drinkable. Plum and dark fruits mingle with sweet spice backed by delicious vanilla oak.
Alianca Bairrada Reserva - Portugal
Ripe and fleshy, satisfying and savoury with the almost meaty flavours of the local Baga grape. There's an attractively rustic edge and a bracing burst of tannin on the finish - a bargain!
Adobe Malbec - Chile
A sensational Malbec with serious concentration. Prune and raisin with sweet caramel, vanilla and toasty oak - dense and delicious.
Zarabanda Rioja - Spain
A delicious modern Rioja with a deep colour and ripe plum and cherry aromas. Richly flavoured and substantial with fruit dominant and a smoky, spicy dimension - brilliant quality!
Les Volets Pinot Noir - France
An elegant Pinot Noir with plenty of ripe red citrus fruits, fresh and refined.
Domaine Bresquieres Ventoux 'Les Contreforts' - France
A beautiful red that shows elegance and balance with juicy black cherries, woody herbs, rich and smooth. This is a classic Southern Rhone wine.
Domaine Mas Bahourat Cabernet Sauvignon - France
Its heavy scents and rich fruit flavours hit the spot perfectly. Freshly cut green peppers and blackcurrant fruit on the nose, soft bramble flavours and a touch of crushed mint.

£79.89 if collected from the shop and  £88.00 delivered anywhere in the UK

Free delivery within a 30 mile radius

Red & White Wines of the Month


                                                                                       Pasquiers Grenache - France £5.49
Talk about length! The flavour from this Grenache just goes on and on. Rich black fruit, vanilla liquorice, sweet spice and  cinnamon. The wine is a wonderful bargain.

Conviviale Fiano - Italy £5.69
A lively, fresh and attractive white with nuances of pear and honey, the palate is balanced with some weight and fresh citrus characters.



Great finds from a recent trade tasting

Like waiting for buses, wine tastings all seem to come at once and generally in the spring. All the members of our staff have been taking it in turns travelling to as many trade tastings as they can get to, so expect a flourish of new wines over the next few months.



2011 Domaine du Monteillet Condrieu - France £28.49
Intoxicating perfume of textbook Viognier. The intoxicating perfume of textbook Viognier This is ripe and peachy with all the elegance and refinement expected of one of France's leading white wine appellations.
2011 Domaine du Monteillet 'La Syrah a Papa' - France £9.99
Classic smoky peppery notes on the nose with lush, red fruit on the palate. Robust yet balanced, this is a stunning mouthful of youthful Syrah from a rising Rhone star.
2010 Vallet Freres Pernand Vergelesses - France £20.89
A beautiful and complex wine. Bright gold in colour with aromas of fresh pear, apple and caramel. The palate weight is wonderful with a smooth minerality leading to rich and complex flavours of baked apples with a hint of hazelnuts and honey. Lovely length.
1997 Vallet Freres Gevrey Chambertin - France £23.99
Bernard Vallet is regarded by many as one of the best wine makers in the village of Gevrey Chambertin. His red wines are traditionally made (the house of Vallet Freres have been making wines in this style since 1864) and capture the true meaning of the expression 'terroir'. This is mature Burgundy but still drinking well with plenty of fragrance and a silky texture.
2010 Manon Tempranillo - Spain £6.99
A hugely appealing red from the Mano a Mano winery near Alhambra - truly capturing the character of the region, and over-delivering with every sip! Rich, robust black fruit on the nose and palate, with a savoury touch and a sweet, bright berry finish.

Philip, Judith & Ruth Byrne working hard!

The following wines from Argentina and Chile offer exceptional value for money.

2012 Nieto Torrontes - Argentina £7.59
Delicate lemon blossom and lemon sherbet combine perfectly with herbaceous, white peach and orange peel notes. A well balanced palate with citrus, stone fruit and super zesty refreshing acidity.
2011 Nieto Malbec - Argentina £7.59
Full-bodied with great concentration of vanilla, mocha, blackberries, sweet spices and cloves. The palate is rich and warming with more black fruit, plums and cherries as well as leathery notes. The wine is vibrant and structured.
2012 Pablo y Walter Malbec, Mendoza - Argentina £8.39
A celebration of Mendoza - the colour, culture and flavour. A really pure expression of Malbec, bright red and juicy, rich chocolate flavours with a lick of oak to round out the edges, Muy, muy fantastico! - richly bloody, vibrant, Latin and velveteen.
2011 Nieto Don Nicanor Malbec - Argentina £9.79
Dark and dense flavours of blackberry and damsons with earthy mocha characters. The palate is smooth with rounded tannins leading to a long intense black fruit finish and hints of bitter chocolate - superb with a steak!
2009 Bressia Monteagrelo Syrah - Argentina £13.49
Full-bodied and smoky, this engaging Syrah is complex, gamey and rich. Bible black with a sensational mouth-feel and finish.
2010 Bressia Monteagrelo Cabernet Franc - Argentina £13.49
A stunning wine with pure berry fruit, well integrated oak and just a touch of red pepper. Intense blackcurrant on the palate, lifted by menthol, vanilla, spice, chocolate and coffee. Concentrated with a savoury twist on the finish.
2009 Bressia Monteagrelo Malbec - Argentina £13.49
Pure and powerful, yet elegant and aromatic, this is a deeply compelling Malbec. The rich plum and cherry, sweet spice, liquorice and leathery aromas on the nose are reflected on the palate, very moreish!
2009 Nieto Bonarda Limitada - Argentina £15.99
Voted Argentina's best Bonarda, ripe fruit flavours on the nose with just a hint of pepper, rich plum and spice on the palate and a long, silky finish.
2007 Bressia 'Profundo' - Argentina £19.99
A blend of Malbec, Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah. the nose includes intense fruity aromas of dark plum and cherry as well as vanilla and warm oak. An opulent and beautifully rendered palate with great concentration, elegance and length, flavours of plum, cherry and luscious blackberries. This is an awesome expression of Bressia's vineyards and ambition.
2008 Nieto Cadus Malbec - Argentina £23.99
Powerful ripe red fruit mixed with prunes and more sweet vanilla from the oak, with liquorice and dark chocolate on the finish, an outstanding wine.

2009 Tabali Reserva Especial Chardonnay - Chile £8.99
Such great value. Award winning 1er cru Burgundy style at half the price - delicious! On the nose it is fresh and complex, with buttered toast, lemon curd, orange oil and stone fruit with a chalky structure and flavours of lemon meringue pie and a delightful creamy, bright acidity.
2010/11 Tabali Reserva Sauvignon Blanc - Chile £7.39
Intense, complex and elegant on the nose with citric notes, passion fruit and green aromas. The palate shows great volume with crisp high acidity giving a fresh, long, fruity finish.
2012 Tabali Reserva Viognier - Chile £7.39
This Viognier presents rich aromas of citrus and dried apricot, with hints of candied fruit. On the palate floral, honeyed and citrus flavours combine with a soft rounded texture and great purity.
2010 Tabali Reserva Merlot - Chile £8.39
Bright, ruby red in colour. Great concentration on the nose showing ripe red fruit aromas and sweetly black pastille allure. On the palate this wine is full-bodied with fine tannins and great structure, well balanced with pleasing acidity, savoury nuances, fabulous crunchy fruit and fine tannins.
2010 Tabali Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon - Chile £8.39
Deliciously dark in hue, it has aromas of intense blackcurrant, mint and black pepper. The palate has more minty cool blackcurrants plus rich plum, crunchy blackberry, sweet vanilla, flinty herbal and violet notes.
2010 Tabali Reserva Syrah - Chile £8.39
Deep red with violet hints. Great character; elegant, complex, ripe and very rich, with layers of black cherries, violets and black pepper, a touch of smoke and spicy dark aromas. The palate is full-bodied and well balanced with smooth texture, velvety tannins and lots of fruit.

Tabali 'Payen' - Chile £28.99
Beautifully balanced with excellent length, restraint and elegant fruit. This is the first vintage of Payen and a significant raising of the bar for Chilean Syrah. Unique in style, this wine speaks volumes for Tabali's intent and capabilities.
2008 Sideral - Chile £14.19
Intense garnet ruby in colour with aromas of linseed, wood smoke and vanilla pods. Aromas evolve to exhibit characters of cassis, prunes and toast, whilst tannins are well integrated and rounded. An elegant and sophisticated wine that drinks well now and will keep for 5 years.
2010/11 Novas Gran Reserva Viognier - Chile £8.59
Rich and luscious, aromas of toasted almonds mix with floral notes. The palate is lush, full and persistent with balanced acidity.
2011 Novas Gran Reserva Sauvignon - Chile £8.59
This wine has a pale and clean yellow colour. Elegant and complex on the nose, this Sauvignon Blanc presents aromas of grapefruit with soft floral and mineral notes. the palate shows great body which is joined by delicate acidity and sweetness.
2010 Novas Gran Reserva Carmenere / Cabernet Sauvignon - Chile £8.59
A deliciously natural black, muscular food wine with a great sense of place. Deep coloured classic blend of Carmenere and Cabernet reflects dark fruit aromas mixed with soft toasty notes. The palate is immensely rich with lots of herbal flavours, including mint. There is a slight salinity, with lots of fruit and dusty clay earth and a beautiful stony finish. Vibrant with huge appeal - another fabulous value wine under this trophy winning label.
2010 Novas Gran Reserva Cabernet Merlot - Chile £8.59
This deep ruby red wine offers blackcurrant, spice, vanilla and black fruit. The palate has more black fruit, particularly blackberry, with more vanilla, spice and a hint of refreshing leafiness and warm smoke. Nice length and a super silky mouth-feel.


Andrew's Whisky Notes

Gordon & MacPhail, Scotland's leading independent whisky bottlers purchased, some years ago, Benromach, Speyside's smallest working distillery, producing a large range of different ages and wood finishes.

The first rung on the ladder is the delicious Benromach Traditional 40% vol £20.99. Matured in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks and bottled when it reaches maturity. The result is a rich mellow singkle malt with fruity and malty tones balanced with a hint of smoke.
Also bottled by them is Speymalt from Macallan 2003 43% vol. at £25.99. Sweet sherry influences with a hint of fudge and toffee, this is a very gentle Speyside malt.
From Orkney, the famous Highland Park 43% vol. at £21.99. Bottled at 8 years old, this whisky is initially sweet and fruity with hints of peach and mango. Traces of toasted malt and vanilla develop later. The palate has rich mulled fruit flavours with a touch of smokiness and black pepper.

Finally we recommend the MacPhail's Collection 2004 Bunnahabhain 43% vol. at £25.99. This Islay malt is slightly peaty, matured in a refill sherry butt, producing a sweet and fruity whisky with hints of soft tropical fruit and a hint of chocolate on the finish.
Well worth a visit is the Bunnahabhain website: http://www.bunnahabhain.com/

Wines for Valentine's day

Wines for Valentine's day

I have it on the best authority that the Byrne men aren't always the most romantic of characters (I should know, I am married to one of them!), but they do know how to choose a seductive wine or two. Pink is traditionally a colour of romance but rose wines vary so dramatically through every hue matching so many foods so wonderfully. A rose wine enjoyed at this time of year also manages to hint that spring may be only just around the corner.
 

Pasion de Bobal Rosado £7.99 (£8.59 in a gift box)
This has a beautiful raspberry colour and delicate aromas of strawberries and cherries. A perfect match for salmon or chicken.

Some Young Punks

Passion Has Red Lips £11.99

Yes, we  had noticed that this wasn't a rose, but what a fabulous label, who could resist! A rich mouthful of lip-smacking sensuous Cabernet & Shiraz. An electrifying vibrant nose of ripe red cherry, cranberry & black fruit and a hint of an aroma of smoke & vanilla. 

Borsao Seleccion Rosado £6.29
A great fresh rose, spicy and full with intense aromas of raspberries and hints of lemons that jump from the glass.

Domaine de la Tour Vieille Rose £7.99

This is a perfect pale pink wine from the Cotes de Provence is elegantly set off in a clear tall bottle. An appealing wine with lovely sweet fruit.  Serve chilled with seafoods or Mediterranean dishes, this wine is just so drinkable!

Pasquiers Grenache Cinsault Rose £5.19

A beautiful blend of grapes varieties combining the rich flavours of Grenache and a generous serving of Cinsault to give that spicy kick. packed with flavour and perfectly matched for pasta or chicken dishes.

Lunetta Rose Spumante £7.49

A beautifully fresh and dry sparkling rose from the Italian foothills of the Trentino mountains. Soft, approachable and luscious.

Stephane Breton Rose Brut Champagne £17.99 (or 18.49 gift wrapped)

Our own exclusive House Champagne. Subtle delicate salmon pink, fine mousse with plump red berry fruit flavours and a rounded nutty finish.

D. Byrne & Co. January Newsletter

This blog sees the return of our ever popular Everyday Drinking Case, as well as the introduction of our new 'Taste of Spain' case, a selection designed to display the sheer quality and value for money currently to be found in the wines of Spain. There is also a chance to register your interest in our 2011 En Primeur Burgundy wines.

Whites

Champs du Moulin Colombard, Pays des Cotes de Gascogne - France
Delicious fresh fragrant nose, clean, invigorating, and zesty, with crisp green fruit on the palate and lovely acidity, a moreish drink.

Percheron Chenin Blanc Viognier - South Africa
Vibrant and aromatic with delicious generous fresh apricot, nectarine and hints of passion fruit on the nose, in this delightful blend sourced from vines up to 40 years old.

Ancora Bianco Garganega delle Venezie - Italy
Pale straw yellow colour, lightly aromatic with ripe citrus and baked apple characters, a soft easy to drink white.

Domaine des Cretes Marssanne Roussanne - France
Fresh, vibrant and youthful, with hints of lemon and mango and some complexity from the barrel-fermented proportion, the full-rounded palate leads to a rich and savoury wine, a real crowd pleaser.

Tesoro de los Andes Torontes Chardonnay - Argentina
This great value wine has some real weight and character, fresh and dry with ripe guava and citrus, and a succulent tropical fruit finish.

Reds
Mas de Vigneron Rouge, Pays du Vaucluse - France
First impressions are of a classic Rhone red, friendly and warming, with the hallmark spice of Grenache and Syrah. Soft, fruity, and easy to drink.

Ancora Rosso, Sangiovese di Puglia - Italy
A warm richly flavoured red, with aromas of plums, dried fruit and spices, a good concentration of ripe cherry is combined with a satisfyingly long finish.

Sierra Grande Cabernet Sauvignon - Chile
A light juicy red with nice crushed red fruit aromas, very easy drinking with gentle tannins and a touch of spice.

Percheron Old Vine Cinsault - South Africa
Highly praised by wine critics, from gnarly vines up to 65 years old, this wine is gently compelling with aromas of the earth and stony minerality. The palate includes red fruits, cherries, a hint of spice, and creamy refreshing acidity.

Borsao Garnacha, Bodegas Borsao - Spain
It would be hard to find, at the price, a more highly praised and award winning wine than this. Juicy bramble fruit and fresh redcurrants dominate this very approachable wine.

El Tesoro Monastrell Shiraz - Spain
A ripe chunky red, with layers of spicy fruit and damsons, that massively over delivers.

Montevista Carmenere - Chile
A powerful fruit bomb with a smokey, spicy kick. Aromas of ripe, dark fruits and mocha, with a hint of crushed black pepper come together in a balanced finish. A cracking Carmenere.

£58.99 if collected from the shop and £67.00 delivered anywhere in the UK

Free delivery within a 30 mile radius

D. Byrne & Co. A Taste of  Spain

White Wines

El Tesoro Verdejo - Castilla Leon

2011 Vintage, Wines from Spain Awards 2012, Top 110 Wines

Aromas of tropical fruit with hints of citrus. A palate filled with passion fruit and guava with great texture and intensity. Balanced, ripe and creamy.

Bodegas Borsao Macabeo - Campo de Borja

A fresh and lively nose with ripe peach, lemon and fennel. Apricot and cashew nut characters on the palate are matched by a clean, fruity finish.

Vetiver Rioja Blanco - Spain

D Byrne & Co White Wine of the Year.

90/100 Robert Parker The Wine Advocate

100% Verdejo, four months in American Oak. A voluptuous mouth full of tropical fruit, white pepper and toasty characters, well balanced with fine natural acidity. Great to drink on its own or to have with fish and shellfish.

Marquis de la Villa Malvasia - Toro

A plump, aromatic white. The lively citrus aromas and ripe peachy fruit offer immediate appeal. A full and peachy palate balanced by fresh acidity.

Red Wines

Pinna Fidelis Roble - Ribera Del Duero

D. Byrne & Co Red Wine of the Year

Shortlisted in the New Wave Spanish Awards 2011

Fresh strawberry, raspberry and red currant aromas with some vanilla oak characters. the palate is rich and rounded with smooth and textural tannins on the persistent finish.

Pedrera Monastrell - Jumilla

From a family winery dating back to 1916 - the wines they produce are of consistently great quality. Forward aromas of crunchy red berries. Fresh and easy to drink with ripe plum fruit, a hint of spice and strawberries dipped in chocolate on the finish.

Dehesa De Rubiales Alia - Castilla Leon

Intense aromas of red fruit, woodland, cocoa powder and savoury mushroom notes. Fruity and medium bodied with soft blueberries and some spice.

Borsao Seleccion Tinto - Campo de Borja

'Possibly the single greatest dry red wine value in the world, this is unbelievable wine...' 90/100 The Wine Advocate

Bodegas Artesa Crianza - Rioja

2009 Vintage, Wines from Spain Awards 2010 Top 110 Wines

A forward, modern crianza with perfectly integrated and expressive plum and black fruit flavours, complemented by spicy vanilla oak and a long juicy finish.

Marques De La Villa Roble - Toro

A ripe and fruity wine with red cherry, blackberry jam, blackcurrant and warming vanilla. Loaded with sun ripened fruit, this is rich and delicious.

Senorio De Sarria Crianza - Navarra

Vibrant berry fruit offsets spicy, floral aromas with some coffee notes from 12 months in oak. Typically spicy black fruit on the palate with some structure.

Fuentseca Bobal Cabernet - Utiel Requena
2011 Vintage, Wines from Spain Awards 2012, Top 110 Wines

A palate filled with ripe, soft and juicy plum fruit with faint herbal notes. Silky in texture with generous mouth feel, this is a lovely fruit driven wine.

£77.50 if collected from the shop and £85.50 delivered anywhere in the UK

Free delivery within a 30 mile radius

A Special Spanish Wine Promotion

D. Byrne & Co - Spanish Specialist Merchant of the Year
2007 IWC

The following list is a selection taken from our huge Spanish range. We have been keen to promote the wines of Spain for a number of years now, and in today's market we feel that Spain is currently offering some of the finest value wines from anywhere. The Borsao Tinto 2011 is a classic example of the sort of quality/ price ratio you can currently expect to receive in Spain, this bargain of the century is certain to be a hit, so stock up now whilst you can.

Reds

2011 Borsao Seleccion Tinto, Campo de Borja 6.29
Is this the wine bargain of the year?
Read what Robert Parker, the American wine critic had to say:
'Possibly the single greatest dry red wine value in the world, this is an unbelievable wine...Its deep ruby/ purple colour is followed by classic aromas of kirsch liquor intermixed with raspberries, loamy soil and flowers. This medium to full-bodied wine possesses remarkable depth, an expansive texture and wonderful freshness as well as purity. On taste alone, this beauty could easily sell for $30-$50 a bottle...i don't understand how anyone can make wines this good to sell at this price...90 points.' (Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #203, 30th October 2012)                                                                                   

2011 Tres Picos Bodegas, Campo de Borja 12.89
Deep cherry in colour with a hint of purple. A bouquet of mature red fruits with floral notes that are typical of the best Garnachas. the palate is rich, showing flavours of blackberries, strawberries and vanilla. Perfectly combined with a sweet soft finish. Awards too numerous to mention.

2009 Mesoneros de Castilla Roble, Ribera Del Duero 8.39
This is a generous and approachable wine with aromas of black cherry, plum, coffee bean, and layered fruit. Sweet vanilla and toasty notes from its time spent in oak combine for a richly flavoured finish - this is excellent.

2009 Valsotillo Crianza, Ribera Del Duero 12.99
Deep Garnet in colour, with cherry aromas and containing typical Ribera notes of both cassis and menthol, this wine has a mouth-filling palate, considerable structure and complexity.

2009/10 Parada de Atauta, Ribera Del Duero 14.99
The nose is warm and spicy with intense black fruit, mocha and baked earth characters. The palate has a good structure, concentrated fruit, cedar and minerality with perfumed violets to the finish.

2010 Vega Piedra Rioja Tinto -The D. Byrne & Co. House Rioja 5.49
A soft, approachable and aromatic number, with comforting and generous ripe berry fruit aromas, and a hint of spice. The palate is light and plummy, with a long juicy finish. To get an oak-aged wine of this quality, at this price, is an absolute bargain.

2009/10 Artesa Organic, Rioja 6.89
Produced from top quality organic fruit, this is a classic Rioja, full-flavoured with dark fruit and spiced mulberry characters. Drink with red meat or cheese.

2010 Zarabanda, Rioja 6.59
A delicious modern Rioja with a deep colour and ripe plum and cherry fruit aromas. Richly flavoured and substantial with dominant fruit and a smoky, spicy dimension from six months in oak. Brilliant quality and exceptional value, a real crowd pleaser. Perfect with tapas.

2009 Ontanon Rioja, Crianza 8.19
The nose is well balanced with aromas of black cherry, spice and toasty oak. The palate contains further bright, intense tangy red cherry fruit, with fresh acidity, a silky mouth feel, soft ripe tannins, and a lingering finish.

2009 The Charge Tempranillo Garnacha, Rioja 8.59
Intense aromas of leather, warm spice and dark fruits. The palate is dark, pruney and decadently ripe with a good balance between tannins and acidity. An earthy, opulent wine that is rich, warm and classically poised.


2006 Valencisco Reserva Rioja, A Classic Vintage Red 16.99
Pungent meaty and currenty aromas, with hints of cedar and spice. Produced purely from Tempranillo, and aged in new French and American oak barriques, this wine is soft-bodied and smooth, and displays all the elegance expected of the variety. Delicate and velvety, with plenty of complexity - awarded 91 Points in the Wine Advocate.

2011 Juan Gil 4 Meses Monastrell, Jumilla 7.39
A beautiful Monastrell from 40 year old vineyards. An intense palate with fresh juicy blackberry and plum fruit, delicate vanilla spice and cedar. Hugely enjoyable!

2010 Juan Gil Silver Label Monastrell, Jumilla 11.39
An astonishingly complex, multi-award winning wine from Juan Gil. Spice, cedar, toast and chocolate are layered with blackberry and plum. A wine of great balance, concentration and length.

2011 Turret Fields Monastrell Shiraz, Jumilla 8.59
This is a characteristically rich and powerful Monastrell-based red. It is deeply perfumed with black cherry, damson and blueberry aromas, spice and black pepper. The palate has ripe juicy fruit in abundance, soft approachable tannins, hints of violet and more spice. This finish has an almost chocolatey texture and a fresh sappy character.

2009/10 Clio, Jumilla 29.99
Made from 65 year old vines, this cult wine is classic, authentic, and powerful. Dark cherry red with an intense nose of ripe cassis fruit, toasted coffee and liquorice  and all the power and concentration you would expect from a wine of this quality.

2007 Canus Verus 'Vina's Viejas', Toro 11.99
A big, bold and serious wine. Dark bramble fruits mingle with liquorice  vanilla and spice aromas. Very complex and concentrated.

2009 Gotim Bru Castell del Remei, Costers del Segre 9.89
An attractive, perfumed nose with cherry, toasted red fruit, balsamic notes and sweet spicy oak. Ripe fruit on the palate is balanced with fresh acidity and supple tannins. This is a wine of great complexity and structure.


2008 Castell del Remei Oda Tinto, Costers del Segre 13.59
Complex aromas of blueberries, blackcurrant and cinnamon spice with vanilla notes. The tannins are mellow in this elegant wine; cassis, liquorice and a touch of caramelized fruit follow through to the long finish.

2010 Catalan Eagle Red, Garnacha Carinena Syrah, La Bascula 8.39
Characterised by smoky, black berry fruit and spice, rounded off by some contact with French oak, this wine has a new world feel whilst remaining firmly and typically Spanish with the 60% old Grenache and Carignan.

2008 The Gauntlet Monastrell, Yecla 11.99
A wine with great length and complexity complemented by an excellent structure of fine acidity and well honed tannins. Ripe, spicy, black berry fruit is balanced by the vanilla flavours from oak barrels. A real iron fist in a velvet glove.

2010 Barbazul, Cadiz 8.59
A heady concoction of flavours in a seriously impressive wine. The fruit is pure with bright, juicy cherry, sweet spice, balanced acidity, an impressive structure and a long finish. Ideal for with juicy steaks.

2007 Taberner, Cadiz 16.99
The rave reviews and rewards should leave you in no doubt - a stunning wine that will not dissapoint. Full and rich, with a heady nose of ripe plum, chocolate, spice, mocha and oak. Voluptuous with a savoury edge.

2009/10 Mano a Mano Tempranillo, La Mancha 8.59
Cherry, black berries, violets and cassis mingle with smoked meat and black pepper on the nose; an intensely structured wine with robust flavours, dark fruits and a mineral yet juicy finish.

2009 Venta la Ossa Tempranillo, Castilla 14.99
Ripe fruit, lifted floral characters and then a deliciously meaty savouriness on the nose. The palate is lifted, with blackberry fruit, minerality, touched of pimento, clove, sage and dark chocolate - complex, with beautiful nuances and a long finish.

2011 Macia Batle Tinto Anada, Binissalem Mallorca 8.99
Wild berry fruit characters, smoky undertones and a structured finish. Will drink very nicely with grilled or roast lamb.

2009 Macia Batle Crianza, Binissalem Mallorca 12.19
A rich and generous red from one of Mallorca's leading producers. Powerful and spicy aromas of cherries, blackberries and warm oaky notes, beautifully balanced with layers of coffee and bitter chocolate.

2007/08 Macia Batle Reserve Privada, Binissalem Mallorca 19.99
A dark, brooding wine, with a huge concentration of ripe fruit. The palate is complex, with layers of coffee, chocolate and plum jam. This is Macia Batle's flagship wine.      

White

2011 Fuentseca Macabeo Sauvignon Blanc, Utiel Requena 6.39
Delicately herbaceous and lightly aromatic, with white peach, citrus and jasmine on the nose. Fresh and zesty, with balanced acidity, mineral notes and a clean, crisp finish.

2011 Artesa Rioja Viura 5.79
Unoaked Viura. Clean, fresh and attractive nose showing hints of ripe peach and pear. The ripe, round and almost creamy palate cut through with a refreshing streak of zesty acidity. This is excellent value.

2011 K-Naia, Rueda 7.49
A fresh Rueda from a top producer who is currently making quite an impact in the UK. A nose of zesty citrus with a rich pineapple layer and hints of mango. The palate is rich with minerality and further hints of tropical fruit. This wine has a lovely intensity and a modern feel.                            

2009 Naiades Bodega Naia Verdejo, Rueda 16.79
An extraordinary wine produced from ancient vines, well over 100 years old. Intensely powerful 'toasty aromatics' - ripe melon combined with citrus and grapefruit on the palate. A seamless mix of honeyed fruit, structure and richness.

2011 Heights of the Charge Verdejo Viura, Rueda 8.39
The palate of this wine possesses both remarkable depth and a wonderfully luscious quality. Lemony freshness gives way to hints of stone fruit, nectarine and fresh apricot. This enormously satisfying number exudes quality.

2011 Catalan Eagle White, Garnacha Blanca Viognier, Catalunya 8.39
This wonderfully complex wine from Catalonia has a delicately floral nose permeated by grapefruit and earthy clay notes. Citrus emerges on the palate, accompanied by pear and melon, with warm spice and savoury notes. Richly textured and inviting.

2011 Castell del Remei Blanc Planell, Costers del Segre 7.99
A fresh and crisp wine from one of the pioneers of Catalan wine making. Intense aromas of peach, green apple and fennel are lent additional characteristics of white flower and ripe pear by the high altitude Macabeo. The crisp citrus acidity is complemented by almond and floral notes.

2011 Castell del Remei Oda Blanc, Costers del Segre 11.69
A sophisticated, elegant wine with powerful aromatics and balanced oak notes. Tropical fruit, coconut and vanilla on the nose. The palate is texturally excellent, with balanced acidity and great length. Ripe toasty notes linger long after the first sip.

2011 En Primeur Burgundy
If you are interested in registering an interest in an offer for 2011 en primeur Burgundies, please email us at info@dbyrne-finewines.co.uk and we will forward details on to you.