Every journey begins with a single glass
May 4, 2008On Tuesday I start my study for the IWC Advanced Certificate. Why do this? In the past year or so that I have embraced the wine life, I soaked up as much knowledge as I did plonk. But I want more — knowledge, wine, opportunities, you name it. So the fun begins on Tuesday night. Before that, I’m going reveling in Rioja on Monday as I expand my database of Spanish wines. What else have I imbibed lately that stands out? Well thanks to the Alliance Francaise, I found a Loire Valley biodynamic wine that is decidedly craveable. Nicolas Joly Savenniere Blanc Clos Coulee de Serrant 2004 is an explosive chenin blanc that lingers on the palate and is just plain thrilling. If burying crap in a cow horn leads to this kind of wine, call me a believer.
From the home cellar, I’m trying a 2006 California Sauvignon Blanc called Go Figure. Gary Fisch, owner of Gary’s Wine and Marketplace, has three stores in New Jersey, fulfills online orders and also has a tiered wine club system. After touring his newest location, a 24,000 square foot store with temperature controlled storage for orders, a a full-on charcuterie (the Serrano ham was lowing in my ear), we press sorts were given a bottle of this store label wine. Fisch buys from producers he has relationships with and offers the bottling to club members. Think designer wear with the label cut out at an outlet and you have the idea. In keeping with the use of Fisch’s initials for these wines, let’s just say Go Figure leaves a Good Feeling.
I’m participating in this month’s Wine Blogging Wednesday since Old World Rieslings are something I enjoy. Before then, I’ll post some of the highlights from La Riojana tomorrow.
