We have had some requests for new Rosés and are introducing a Grenache for good measure. All three are new to the shop. We will sample:

Figuière Signature Magali Rosé 2020, France — Figuière is located in La Londe-les-Maures between Marseille and Nice with vineyards that lie just a few hundred meters from the Mediterranean Sea. Over a period of 25 years, the Combard Family grew Figuière to its current size of 210 acres. The Rosé is 100% Estate-grown. Blend: Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon with a two to three-hour maceration on the skins before vinification in stainless-steel tanks. Figuière aims for tight wines that express the unique terroir of coastal Provence. Magali Rosé is a medium-bodied rosé with aromas and flavors of strawberries, orange peel and white flowers. The wine shows bright and refreshing acidity and salty minerality thanks to the influence of the nearby Mediterranean Sea. $24.99/$9

Planeta Sicilia D.O.C Rosé 2020, Italy — For five centuries and seventeen generations, the Planeta family has been involved in the Sicilian agricultural sector. Their work on the island has contributed to the revitalization of Sicilian winemaking, now one of the most dynamic and sought-after viticultural regions in the world. Planeta’s journey begins at Sambuca di Sicilia, on the estate owned by the family since the 1600s. This wine offers a bouquet full of peppery florals, young strawberries with stems and all, plus a note of flowery undergrowth that seals the deal. This is soft and enveloping, contrasting ripe melon with zesty yellow citrus and bright acidity. It’s incredibly long with cheek-puckering tension, as a mix of sour lemon and green apple slowly fizzles out. This is a high-energy 50/50 blend of Syrah and Nero d'Avola. $26.99/$9

Alto Moncayo Red Veraton Garnacha 2018, Spain — Bodegas Alto Moncayo is a winery located in the Campo de Borja D.O. It was founded in 2002 with the aim of turning it into a world reference for Garnacha wines of the highest quality, crafted from some of the oldest native vine clones in the area. The Garnacha grape is one of the varieties that best expresses its terroir. This is due to the very strict selection made from the vineyards, the type of soil in which it is grown, the microclimate, and the age of the vines. At this winery, the vines are planted at the foothills of El Moncayo which is the highest point in the Iberian Mountain Range and the winery's namesake. This Grenache is brilliant purple. Intensely perfumed, spice-tinged black and blue fruits, vanilla, candied flowers and cola on the nose, along with a smoky element that builds with air. Broad and fleshy on entry, offering juicy cherry cola, blueberry and mocha flavors sharpened by a jolt of spicy white pepper. Strongly echoes the blue fruit and spice notes on the very long, focused finish, which features lingering floral and mineral flourishes. $38.99/$14

PLEASE NOTE: We have returned to the bar for tastings, as was the method pre-COVID. We are honored and humbled to have been very busy during the last bunch of Friday WTs. We have SO enjoyed having a full place again and seeing all of you! Barside tasting is the most efficient and organized way for us to provide tastings at this point. C’mon in when you’re ready, head to the bar/tasting area, and sample away. Be sure to make room for others, chat, and compare notes. Then find a table and continue on with the evening. As always, please select a table that matches your party size so that we can accommodate everyone.

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). AND, don’t forget the cheese shop, St. Lucio’s Gourmet and Cheese. They are introducing new cheeses regularly. They can pair cheeses for you to enjoy with your wine.