We are huge fans of Vinum Winery! We currently have their Monterrey Pinot Noir and PETS Petite Sirah on tap, have offered other selections by the glass, and have or have had several available by the bottle. This week, we are debuting Vinum’s “The Insider” line up. PLUS, Chris Curtis (co-host of our 16-week VWT stretch last summer) will be in-house to talk about them and help us pour! We will be tasting:

The Insider Carneras Chardonnay 2018 — From Sangiacomo-farmed grapes, this wine is a shiny golden straw in color. The aromas are rich with tropical fruit notes such as mango, guava and papaya. Nicely balanced between the acidity and creamy center. Ultimately the palate prevails rich in texture with silky caramel apple flavors, poached pear, creamy French oak and Tahitian Vanilla. Its structure and body weight are fleshy and full. Rating: 88, Wine Enthusiast

The Insider Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2018 — A deep garnet, crushed cranberry color illustrates the depth of this cool climate PN. Right out of the glass this wine is perfumed with elegant dark fruit from ripe bing cherry to black raspberry notes. The wine is subtly spiced with integrated cinnamon and clove spices and backed with mocha notes. On the palate, displays the ripe and juicy cherry and raspberry fruit notes with balanced acidity and generous vanilla and toasted oak notes revealing silky tannins that linger. The wine finishes in a Burgundian style referencing the earth tones that make this wine memorable. Rating: 90, Wine Enthusiast

The Insider Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 — Medium plum in color with light brick edges indicating an age-worthy wine. The aromas are classic Bordeaux with cassis, black cherry, black currant, earthy herbs, tobacco and pencil shavings. Brighter touches of plum and mulberry power the palate, where chopped herbs and graphite flavors add complexity. Well-integrated tannins from the French oak aging are balanced between the fruit and alcohol level. The wine finishes with intense berry fruit and is ripe with fresh bing cherry and boysenberry flavors displaying textbook Cabernet tannins which make the wine very appealing now, yet appropriate for long-term cellaring and will reward patience. Rating: 91, Wine.com

All wines are $21.99/bottle.

Note: The name "The Insider" comes from the confidentiality agreement that Vinum had to sign in order to purchase the grapes used in these wines from the vines of a well-known winery that produces world-class wines. The wines produced by that winery are priced well above the $21.99 price point. “With our insider connections and knowledge, we are able to offer wines of exceptional quality and pedigree at a price that will amaze.” —Vinum)

Tastings are tableside, c’mon in when you’re ready. Please sit at a table that matches your party size so that we can accommodate everyone. Masks are required upon entry to the store, until you are seated, and if you need to get up. As always, feel free to bring snacks/dinner with you, but please dispose of your own trash (there is a garbage can at the back entrance of the store).

Thanks y’all, see you Friday!!