Category Archives: Blogs

Luxurious wines for your weekend, or your cellar!!!

Blogs, Featured Products, Public Tastings, Specials, Wine

1.Nortico Alvarinho – Ask anyone for the best Alvarinho in Portugal and people will point to the extreme north to the sub-region of Moncao and Melgao, right on the border with Spain. Nortico Alvarinho is a superb example of the grapes hallmarks: fresh citrus, peach and tropical fruit aromas paired with clean, juicy fruit and vibrant minerality. Nortico is produced on the south bank of the Minho River in plots so small they are called “jardins”, or gardens in Portuguese. Soils here are granite and schist and although there is plenty of rainfall (2,000 ml annually), the inland area is a little warmer than the coastal plantings, allowing for perfect maturation. 100% Alvarinho. Sustainably grown vines. This is a young, fresh white wine with the characteristic bright acidity and aromas of peach and grapefruit. Creamy citrus oil, lime and yellow apple notes are nicely spiced and detailed with saline mineral and floral underpinnings through the long finish. At only 12.5 % alcohol, Nortico is light and delicate, lovely as a “porch-sipping wine” to drink on its own. Have it simply with corn bread and butter like country folks do in Portugal. Also a terrific seafood wine, particularly with salty, fattier dishes like fish tacos or broiled oysters.

Regular $14.99, Cooper’s Price $12.99

2. Thierry Germain “Les Roches” Samur Champigny Cab Franc — Thierry’s domaine, Roches Neuves, whose vineyards are planted in the Saumur (Blanc) and Saumur-Champigny (Rouge) appellations, has rightfully become one of the greatest examples of high achievement in biodynamic vine growing in France. Thierry relocated to the Loire from Bordeaux in the early 1990s, and soon fell under the influence of his spiritual father, Charly Foucault of Clos Rougeard. Thierry would ultimately convert his entire domaine to biodynamic viticulture, which was the equivalent of his wine epiphany. Listening and observing his plants, allowing them to guide him, revolutionized his way of thinking. Thierry harvests on the relatively early side to preserve fresh, vibrant fruit. His goal is to produce Cabernet with purity, finesse, and drinkability, while avoiding rusticity, vegetal character, and hard tannins. His incredibly diverse terroirs are translated with utter clarity and precision. 100% de-stemmed, and fermentation in stainless steel tank for 8 to 10 days. Light pump-overs during fermentation—meant to infuse the grapes not extract them. Aged in stainless steel and wood tanks on fine lees, without sulfur, for 3 to 4 months. Thierry’s style of Cabernet Franc emphasizes soaring red fruit aromatics, plush and silky textures, and racy acidity. Sounds pretty good, right? It isn’t your grandmother’s rustic, furry, tannic, bretty Cab Franc, that’s for sure. Biodynamic agriculture, no trimming of the vine shoots, early picking, and aging in large barrels are a few of his keys to success. Les Roches is Thierry’s entry-level Cab Franc for barbecues and general everyday gladness.

Regular $28.99, Cooper’s Price $25.99

3. Rivale Rosso Toscana – This is a well-situated estate on the ‘north slope’ of the Montalcino hill, located just below the village of Montalcino. Casanuova delle Cerbaie is comprised of 15 hectares, 10 of which are under vine. The vineyards are located at approximately 300 metres above sea level and grow on the prestigious hill of Montesoli. The estate’s sure-handed enologist, Paolo Vagaggini (a Montalcino fixture who’s worked with a host of top estates, including Fuligni, Il Palazzone, and Biondi-Santi) favors a woodsy, savory style of Sangiovese aged in larger Slavonian oak barrels crafted by the Austrian cooperage Stockinger. This Sangiovese based blend has very appealing smokey herbal notes with subtle cherry tones. Well balanced silky tannins, and nice texture make this wine great food companion. 50% Sangiovese, 30% Merlot, 10% Colorino, 10% Petit Verdot.

Cooper’s Price $18.99

4. Ca del Baio Vallegrande Barbaresco – Valgrande or Vallegrande is a cru in the commune of Treiso. A small domaine with deep roots in Piemonte. The Grasso family has been making wine in Barbaresco since the 1880’s. Giulio and Luciana Grasso, fourth generation wine makers, are now running the family business with the help of their daughters Paola, Valentina and Federica. They maintain their traditional values with particular attention to the vines, especially during pruning, crucial for yield control and fruit quality. The use of herbicides and fertilizers in the vineyards was banned long ago and only natural yeasts are used for fermentation. Ca’ del Baio has a number of Nebbiolo vineyards on the Vallegrande cru, covering an area of 3 hectares in all. They face west, and produce the estate’s Barbaresco DOCG Valgrande. A traditional Barbaresco, grown on vineyard sites planted in 1967. Is aged – as in the past – only in large casks. It represents the elegance of Barbaresco at its very best, without flaunting the muscle of Nebbiolo. Traditional, stem-free, on-the-skins fermentation, for 7 to 15 days in steel at a controlled temperature. The wine matures for 24 months in casks made of Slavonian Oak, and is then cellared for 6 months in the bottle prior to release. Garnet red in the glass, intense aromas with powerful, deep fruit, dried flowers, new leather and underbrush. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry jam and licorice flavors alongside taut, fine-grained tannins and firm acidity.

Regular $44.99 Cooper’s Price $36.99

An avalanche of excitement for your palate!

Blogs, Featured Products, Public Tastings, Specials, Uncategorized

Commanderie de la Bargemone, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Rosé 2018 – One of the top estates in the Coteaux d’Aix. A small, fine-wine district within the larger appellation of Provence, Bargemone produces the top-selling Rosé at HPS. With more than 160 acres under vines, 2/3 of the production is dedicated to the dry rosé for which Provence is famous.

Founded by Templar knights in the 13th century, the property was named “Bargemone” after the wealthy Provencal family that owned it for 200 years. It passed from their hands in the 1800’s, with the vineyards finally succumbing to phylloxera ( a root louse that destroys the root system of the vines), ending, temporarily, a proud 800 year tradition of winemaking. In 1973, French industrialist Jean-Pierre Rozan purchased the property, restored the Commanderie and replanted the vineyards. Production was up to 50,000 cases/year when Jean-Pierre passed away in 2006, and a controlling interest in the vineyards and winery was sold to current owners Christian and Marina Garin (both from local Provencal families).

Kevin’s Note: The aromatics will make your mouth water.

Regular Price $22.99 Cooper’s Price $19.99

DaTerra Viticultores, Portela do Vento – About DaTerra Viticultores. For almost a decade, Laura Lorenzo was the winemaker and viticulturist at the venerable Dominio do Bibei. In 2014, she struck out on her own with her project, DaTerra Viticultores, and now works about 4.5 ha – 10 acres – organically in the Val do Bibei‐Quiroga subzone of Ribeira Sacra.

“No one has seen a woman like this in the vines of Galicia, and I’m not sure they’re ready for her.” -Alice Feiring. 

Alice Feiring is an American journalist and author, and a wine and travel columnist for Time magazine. She is known as an advocate for “natural wine”.

Portela do Vento comes from several south-facing parcels of Mencía and Garnacha Tintorera in the Amandi and Quiroga-Bibei subzones. The grapes are harvested from 30+ degree sloped vineyards!! Harvested by hand in late September, 80% de-stemmed and fermented with wild yeasts in steel vats and aged in used barrels. This is Laura’s “glou-glou” wine = a wine that is incredibly drinkable, fun, and never stuffy. It’s a wine that she loves to share with her American friends. Fresh and easy-drinking, it is very versatile with a wide variety of foods…or straight from the porrón (a glass wine pitcher)!

Kevin’s Notes:  I will buy every wine made by Laura Lorenzo that comes my way, because I so badly wish to share her wines with my customers! Why, you ask? Laura makes some of the most PURE wines, I have ever tasted. She is a true naturalist in the vineyard, allowing the “terruño” to really showcase itself in her wines. The soft, lush character of this offering, displays beautiful red fruit flavors with soft tannins, while carrying low alcohol. This wine is simply fun to drink, and a true one-of-a-kind! One of my favorite winemakers!

Regular $34.99 Cooper’s Price $29.99

San Gregorio Tres Ojos Old Vine Garnacha – Aragon, Spain – This wine has a dark red color with a bouquet of red raspberries, spice and white pepper. The palate is incredibly concentrated and rich. The modern styles of Garnacha in Spain are continuously being perceived worldwide as wines of extraordinarily good quality. This wine is fruity, juicy and shows a great depth, ripe tannins, length, but with wonderful elegance and lightness.

Wine Education – Aragon is one of the 17 autonomous communities of Spain. Located in the country’s north, it stretches from the imposing Pyrenees mountains south to the expansive central Iberian plateau.  Calatayud is a sub-appellation in the southwest part Aragon, northern Spain. It is located about 55 miles (90km) from the provincial capital, Zaragoza.

Kevin’s Notes: If I were still a wholesale wine buyer in Atlanta, I would buy 5,000 cases of this a year.
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Cooper’s Price $11.99

Anna Maria Abbona Dolcetto Dogliani – The quality of Dolcetto from the village of Dogliani has been skyrocketing in the last few years, and Anna Maria’s work is a good example of this. Her oldest vines were planted by her grandfather in the ’30s, and the vineyards are steep and perfectly exposed. More recently she has become a convert to the doctrine of low yields, and she has joined the elite of Dogliani. First, understand that producers in Dogliani take Dolcetto as seriously as producers in Barolo take Nebbiolo. Dolcetto is planted in all the best sites and vinified with great care, which is not always the case with Dolcetto d’Alba. Second, understand that Dolcetto is not the Beaujolais of Italy. The best modern Dolcettos have an inky color, lashings of blueberry fruit, and tannins to match. In fact, the concentration of top Dogliani wines has reached a point where the tannins need to be carefully managed to be pleasant.

The Wine is violet-tinged deep purple; a very inviting color. It smells of violets, Assam tealeaves, and blueberries, and it is a mouth-filling, deep, substantial wine to drink. The fruit comes from very old vines planted in the ’30s, and it is fermented and aged in stainless steel.

Kevin’s Notes:  This is the best Dolcetto I have tasted in 3 years – its mind blowing rich and complex! 

Cooper’s Price $24.99

Winter Whiskey Tasting!

Blogs, Featured Products, Public Tastings, Specials, Spirits, Uncategorized

Redbreast 12yr Irish Whiskey – Old Midleton Distillery stands on the banks of the Dungourney  River in Midleton, East Cork. Set on 15 green acres, the distillery is home to all of the world’s supply of Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. Redbreast is made in the classic Irish Single Pot Still style. This means it is produced using a mash bill consisting of both malted and unmalted barley which is triple distilled in copper pot stills. The 12 year is aged only in Oloroso Sherry casks. 

A healthy dose of orange marmalade presents itself along with toast and coconut. Dried red fruit, cloves, and honey round out the palate and leads to a creamy and lengthy finish. All in all, a balanced and satisfying whiskey. Cooper’s Price $49.98 

Laws ‘Bottled in Bond’ Four Grain Straight Bourbon – Laws Whiskey House is a historically minded distillery. “Quality before quantity” is their self-proclaimed mantra, and they’ve proven it with each of their releases. The 1897 Bottled-In-Bond Act is a little-known piece of legislation that cleaned up whiskey when it hit an all-time low. In the late 1800s whiskey was unregulated, and customers were paying the price. Gunpowder, tobacco and turpentine are just a few of the unsavory additives that distillers were using to color and flavor cheap whiskeys. Supporters of the act were so desperate to protect the sanctity of their spirits that they enlisted help from an unlikely ally— The Women’s Christian Temperance Union— an organization that would eventually be instrumental in prohibition legislation. This whiskey, made to adhere to these standards of the Bottled in Bond act, must be aged for a minimum of 4 years, made in a single distilling season, using the grains of a single season, made by one distiller at one distillery and aged in a federal government-bonded distillery. So, in laymen’s terms, a “bonded” whiskey is cleaner, stronger and more difficult to make. Golden amber in color. Notes of honey, caramel, bread pudding, and gentle rye spice come first on the nose. Flavors of dark chocolate, nutmeg, oak, and cinnamon are evident on the palate. Cooper’s Price $69.98 

Kilchoman Machir Bay Islay Single Malt – Established in 2005, Kilchoman was the first new distillery to be built on Islay in over 124 years. Kilchoman founder Anthony Wills, set out to revive the lost art of farm distilling once widespread before the commercialisation of the distilleries in the late 1800s. Over a decade into his journey, Kilchoman’s 100% Islay range remains the only Islay single malt produced completely on site, from barley to bottle. The parish of Kilchoman is home to some of Islay’s most fertile ground.  It is here, in the fields surrounding the distillery, where they grow 200 tons of barley each year. Planting in Spring once Islay’s 50,000 geese have migrated, the farm team care for the barley over the summer months before harvesting in early September. Harvest time represents the start of the whisky-making process which sees the Kilchoman-grown barley malted, distilled, matured and bottled here at the distillery, eventually becoming Islay’s only Single Farm Single Malt Scotch Whisky over 1130 days later. 

Machir Bay is clearly an Islay malt, but it has a style all its own. Aged in 80% bourbon barrels and 20% Oloroso sherry casks. All the familiar saline and smoke notes are evident on the nose, but they’re ushered in on an unlikely rush of peppermint. Eccentric. That mint aroma manifests as a cooling sensation on the palate. Against that backdrop, hits of lemon rind and chocolate roastiness pop through. But those pops are short-lived and they leave without a trace. You’re left with a saline tang that reminds you exactly where this malt comes from. Cooper’s Price: $59.98 

Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur – The dairy farming industry in Ireland dates back thousands of years. The importance of dairy farming to the Irish and their livelihood is mentioned even in Early Irish Law or “Brehon Laws,” which valued milk cows as the highest form of currency. The dairy farmers of Five Farms are members of a local dairy Co-op of over 500 farms. The Co-op helps guarantee that all farms within the group get a fair price for their output and provides a supportive community for the farmers. 

Five Farms is a true farm-to-table product, crafted from single batches of fresh cream that are combined with premium Irish Whiskey within 48 hours of collection to become authentic Irish Cream Liqueur. The cream is sourced entirely from five family-owned farms in County Cork, run by families that have a deep connection to the land and a passion for their craft.

An inviting nose of butterscotch, caramel fondue, and vanilla bean jumps from the glass. The lush palate coats the mouth with flavors of coffee with fresh cream, dulce de leche, coconut, maple, and Belgian waffles. An intensely satisfying after dinner sipper in place of dessert. Cooper’s Price $32.99

An elegant, cultured and diverse tasting!!!

Blogs, Featured Products, Public Tastings, Specials, Wine

Casa de Valor Brut Nature Cava – Cava is a sparkling wine from the Denominación de Origen  (DO) status from Catalonia, also produced in other regions of Spain. 95% of all Cava is produced in the Penedès area in Catalonia. Cava can be white or rose. Only wines produced in méthode champenoise may be labeled Cava, those produced in other ways must be labeled sparkling wine. This is a dry, non dosage Brut Nature

50% Xarel-lo 25% Macabeo 25% Parellada (zero dosage), from 15 to 35 year old vines with grapes farmed and hand harvested by a third generation family. Aged 14 months on the lees in the bottle before disgorgement

The nose of revealing hints of citrus, orchard fruits and white flowers on the nose. Crisp, bright acidity and fresh citrus fruits, reminiscent of lemon cake. On the palate, there’s an attractive interplay of candied lemon and crisp acidity. Lively mousse and properly dry finish, but no hard edges. Cooper’s Price $14.99 

Ferrari-Carano Tre Terre Russian River Chardonnay – Don and Rhonda Carano founded Ferrari-Carano in 1981. They were introduced to the beauty of Northern Sonoma County in 1979, and eventually purchased a 60-acre parcel in the Alexander Valley. Those vineyards piqued their curiosity about winemaking, and as a result, they began taking classes on enology and viticulture at the University of California, Davis. Realizing the potential that this area held, the Caranos began to acquire additional vineyard land, and  ground was broken for the winery in Dry Creek Valley in 1985. The first wines bearing the Ferrari-Carano label were released in 1987. In 2015, Ferrari-Carano’s 24 vineyards earned California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) certification for their numerous efforts to preserve the land while producing memorable, sustainable wines of outstanding quality. Each lot for this wine is hand harvested, whole‐cluster pressed, then barrel fermented with native and cultured yeast. The wine completes 96% malolactic fermentation and is aged on lees and stirred weekly for 9 months. The wine is barreled again in neutral oak until bottling. This is a delicious, full‐bodied Chardonnay with aromas and flavors of Meyer lemon, apple, graham cracker, creamy marshmallow, stonefruit, brown sugar and spice, with bright fruit, nice acidity and a long, lingering finish. This wine’s rich fruit component complements mildly spiced vegetarian dishes and rich, creamy shellfish entrées. It also works well with veal, poultry, pasta and rice. Cooper’s Price $19.99 

Cantine Povero Barbera d’Asti – Cantine Povero began to bottle wine in 1964 but Povero family members have always been winemakers. Their 45 hectares of vineyards are located in Piemonte, around Cisterna d’Asti: this very central position allows them to produce a wide range of typical wines of Langhe, Monferrato and Roero areas. The third generation is now managing this promising enterprise, following the production process, from the grape to the bottle. Respecting nature is the keyword, both in the vineyard and in the cellar. The careful work in the vineyards together with the innovative technologies used for the vinification process allow them to reach high quality standards with affordable prices. Povero’s ambition is to showcase the flavors and emotions of their wines, which express the uniqueness of their land.Deep ruby red in color with mild and fruity flavors on the palate. Full bodied with velvety and pleasantly dry tannins. This is a highly flexible wine that is superb with meat dishes. Excellent during the first year following the vintage. Cooper’s Price: $10.99

Domaine Andron Haut-Médoc 2010 – Domaine Andron is situated in the little village of Saint Seurin de Cadourne (just north of Saint Estèphe and not far from Pauillac) being neighbours of the famous chateau Sociando-Mallet. Three First-Cru vineyards are within 20 minutes away (Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Latour, Chateau Mouton Rothschild).

Domaine Andron dates back to the early 19th century. It became a “Cru Bourgeois” in 1892, and has first-rate vineyard with a reputation of the best wines of the Médoc. The domain is located on the famous rumps of Günziennes gravel close to the Gironde River. The soils are on deep sandy loam gravels. The vines are an average age of 42 years.

An extremely sophisticated culture, moderate yields, manual harvest at full maturity followed by careful breeding and vinification have resulted in an exceptional concentrated wine, with finesse and complexity, and was bottled without filtration. 

A large core of dark currant, plum and fig fruit rolled together and inlaid with baker’s chocolate, dark tobacco and loam notes. The long, solid, muscular finish lets the fruit and loam play out nicely. Best from 2014 through 2020. Cooper’s Price $29.99

Holiday Tree Lighting and Wine Walk…and another great tasting at Cooper

Blogs, Featured Products, Public Tastings, Specials, Uncategorized, Wine

 Fess Parker Santa Barbara County Chardonnay – Fess Parker’s portrayal of the frontiersmen Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone during the 1950’s and 1960’s garnered him a legion of adoring fans spanning many generations. 

In 1964 Parker began filming the network television series, Daniel Boone. During the shows six year run as one of the highest rated shows on television Parker starred, co-produced and directed five of its most popular episodes. Parker also continued to star in numerous box office hits for Disney, Paramount and Warner Brothers’ Studios while simultaneously laying the foundation for his second career in real estate development.

One of Parker’s business adventures took him inland to the Santa Ynez Valley to follow the lure of the county’s promise as a world-class wine region. Parker purchased a 714 acre ranch on what is now known as the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail and set out to make wine of the highest quality made from estate grown grapes and the best vineyards in the county. The winery has received critical success and numerous awards including Eli Parker and his successor winemaker, Blair Fox, being named the Andre Tchelistcheff Wine Maker of the Year in 2006 and 2008 respectively.  Regular $19.99 Cooper’s Price $16.99

 Akutain Cosecha Rioja – With almost 40 years of experience under their belt, Bodega Akutain produces classically-styled Rioja wines exclusively from their own 6.5ha (18 acres) of vineyards located near the town of Haro, in the subzone Rioja Alta, widely considered to be the most prestigious appellation for producing age-worthy Rioja wines. Founded by Juan José Peñagaricano Akutain, the bodega is now run by his son, Jon Peñagaricano. Artisan in all aspects of production, Akutain hand harvests, ferments with native yeasts with little extraction, and works with very little new oak. The resultant wines are throwbacks to Rioja’s past – 12.5 to 13% alcohol, beautifully aromatic, nuanced, and age-worthy.

The Akutain Cosecha is comprised of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha, is fermented in fiberglass vats with native yeasts and raised for a short time in the same fiber glass vats. A delicious wine to pair with a variety of Tapas, and a pure example of Rioja Alta wine region.  Regular $19.99 Cooper’s Price $16.99

Mauro Molino Barbera d’Alba 2017 – Established in 1953, the Azienda Agricola Molino, is located near the ancient abbey of S. Martino di Marcenasco and includes one of the most famous crus of the Langhe, “Vigna Conca”, among its vineyards. The estate is run since 1978, year of the death of the founder Giuseppe, by his son Mauro, an oenologist certified at the well-known Oenology Institute of Alba. Mauro, due to the experience acquired in various estates in northern Italy, has given a big impulse towards the production of high quality wines. Mauro’s son Matteo, having completed his studies of Oenology, is now working full-time at the estate.

Kevin’s Notes:  You may recall, we featured this wine 5 years ago when we first opened and it’s stunning this year with deep violet red color, fine and fruity bouquet with scents of ripe red berries and minerals. This wine taste well above its price!  Regular Price: $19.99  Cooper’s Price: $16.99

 Kurtz Family Cellars “Magnolia” Sonoma Valley Cabernet 2014 – Krutz Family Cellars was founded in summer of 2003 in Monterey County when Patrick Kurtz produced sixty cases of wine. The idea was to purchase a ton of grapes a year in order to produce a small amount of wine for family and friends. However, demand soon changed that plan and Krutz Family Cellars continues to grow in an effort to supply that demand. In 2011 Bryan and Cole Krutz joined their brother Patrick as owners and Krutz Family Cellars is now a family owned winery located in Sonoma County.

Tasting notes: Rich, forward and balanced out of the gate. Dark and plush blackberry, black cherry and licorice lift forward from the glass. A very viscous and velvety texture on the palate accompany flavors of dark fruit, cedar spice and a bit of mountain sage. Youthful and lovely now but could easily negotiate cellar aging.

Kevin’s Notes:  This is the third holiday season for us featuring this wine and the price has not gone up and the wine continues to over deliver at its price.  This is a no brainer $25 gift item for the holidays and for any prime rib meal.  Regular Price $29.99 Cooper’s Price $24.99

5th Birthday Party Tasting!!!

Blogs, Featured Products, Public Tastings, Specials, Uncategorized, Wine

 

 

Villa Wolf 2016 Pinot Gris, Pflaz, Germany – The Pfalz (aka ‘Palatinate’) region is in the Rhine River Valley in Southwest Germany, directly north of France’s Alsace region. The low-lying Haardt Mountains protect the area from cold, wet Atlantic weather, making it one of the warmer and drier areas of Germany. The predominant soil type in this area is well-drained, weathered sandstone. It produces wines with a fruit-driven purity and a stoney structure. It was here in the Pfalz region, back in the 19th century Pinot Gris was first identified as an individual variety and vinified separately. 

The modern-day Villa Wolf Pinot Gris is made in a bright, racy, dry style with fresh, un-oaked fruit and a crisp texture. It is an excellent partner for salmon, chicken or pork and Thanksgiving while eating or cooking!  

Kevin’s Notes:  It’s simple, the wine is fantastic for the money!  Special Price $14.99

 

Scar of the Sea Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir 2017 – Scar of the Sea is the project of Mikey Giugni and Mike Brughelli, two friends who love wine, beaches and the ocean. Together, they wanted to craft wines from vineyards that are influenced by the sea, with maritime soils and climates, which produce wines that speak of their origins in the Central Coast of California. To that end, Mikey and Mike source fruit from environmentally conscientious growers at top-quality vineyard sites like Bien Nacido, Solomon Hills and Presqu’ile in Santa Barbara County. The name of the label comes from a small red brick church in Tasmania (located right next to the beach), where Mikey worked for a growing season. He mistakenly read the old English writing as “Scar of the Sea”, when, in fact, it is written “Star of the Sea.” He liked the sound of “Scar of the Sea” so much he decided to keep it that way!

The 2017 Scar of the Sea Pinot Noir is made of fruit from different vineyard sites in Santa Maria and Los Alamos in Santa Barbara County. The wine is fermented 30% whole cluster with native yeasts and aged in neutral oak for 10 months, then bottled without filtration. Light ruby in the glass, the Scar of the Sea is beautifully aromatic with gorgeous concentration of sweet red and black fruit buoyed by a floral and spice lift. It is balanced by a pleasant acidity and firm but not obtrusive tannins that flow seamlessly into a bright, long finish. 

Kevin’s Notes:  This is our third year we have featured this wine for the holidays because it over delivers for the price.  His single vineyard and single appellation wines start at $45 and they are, “WOW”.  Regular $32.99 Cooper’s Price $28.99

 

High Valley Vineyards Lake County Cabernet 2014 – The High Valley AVA rises between 1,600 and 3,000 ft. elevation in the Coastal Ranges of northeastern Lake County. Thanks to the highelevation and cool breezes from the oldest lake in North America, it is one of the coolest appellations in Lake County. We run 1,000 head of sheep on these vineyards, composting the weeds into nutrients for the red, rocky volcanic soils. Typical of High Valley fruit, the grapes from Betsy’s vineyard are powerful, yet complex. Named in memory of Clay’s mother, Betsy’s vineyard has a northwest facing slope that allow longer ripening time, resulting in an intensely structured Cabernet. Using a majority of French oak, we age in barrels to lift the fruit with nice toasted spices on the finish.

Tasting Notes  Our High Valley Cabernet Sauvignon starts with aromas of dried cherry, black pepper and cedar. The full-bodied flavors and textured finish are enhanced by notes of cherries, herbs and toasted oak. Regular $21.99 Cooper’s Price $17.99

 
Le Fervent Costieres de Nimes Syrah – The term “fervent” is defined as “having intensity of spirit, feeling and enthusiasm,” an apt description of winemaker Michel Gassier’s passion for Syrah. Le Fervent is produced in Costières de Nîmes, the southern-most appellation of the Rhône Valley nestled on the shore of the Mediterranean, and is sourced from some of the coolest vineyard sites of the Southern Rhône, thanks to the strong maritime influence. This wine exhibits the freshness, elegance and mineraility that are often characteristic of Syrahs from the Northern Rhône, the birthplace of this most noble varietal.

Tasting Notes:  Almost black with reddish hues. The nose is both complex and intense, of black plum, china ink, blood orange and hints of pencil lead. A very fresh and vibrant wine with flavors of blueberry, boysenberry liquor and garrigue (oak), underlined by hints of toast and cocoa. It is framed by refined tannins and good acidity.  Regular $19.99 Cooper’s Price $16.99

A vibrant tasting, including a RARE Beaujolais Blanc!!!

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Gerard Boulay Sibylle Sancerre Rose – This winery is found in the Upper Loire Valley of France, from the  village Sancerre. Unlike many Sancerre Rosés, Boulay’s Rosé is not made from a selection of young vines but rather from 35-40 year old Pinot Noir vines located on the steep hillsides in front of the his home in Chavignol. Of the 9ha owned by Gerard Boulay, 8 of the hectares are on the slopes of Chavignol on Kimmeridgian or “terre blanche” soils (similar to the soils in Chablis), which he works manually and has farmed organically since 1990. The youngest vines at the domaine were planted by Mr. Boulay in 1972 and the average vine age is approximately 45 years old. The wines ferment naturally in tank and with the exception of the Chavignol tradition which is also aged in tank, the parcellaire wines are aged in in a mix of Foudres and used 300L barrels. Gerard adds no yeast and little to no SO2 during vinfication. He describes his role as one of “surveillance” to make sure nothing goes wrong. In general he works by instinct, “au feeling” because he wants to “let the wine live” and tries not to interfere with the natural process. He states, “C’est la nature qui fait le vin” (Nature makes the wine). Regular Price $28.99 Cooper’s Price $22.99 OR 2 for $40!!!

 

Domaine Dupeuble Beaujolais Blanc – In the hamlet of Le Breuil, deep in the southern Beaujolais and perched above a narrow creek, the Domaine Dupeuble has been running almost continuously since 1512! The name of the domaine has changed just three times in its history, most recently when the last heir, Anna Asmaquer, married Jules Dupeuble in 1919. Today their grandson Damien manages the domaine along with his wife, brothers, sons, and daughter. Tradition runs deep in the family, but each generation has also managed to add something new, including increasing the property. Today it is comprised of 100 hectares, about forty percent of which is designated to vineyards. Strong advocates of the lutte raisonnée approach to vineyard work, they tend their vines without the use of any chemicals or synthetic fertilizers. The vineyards, planted primarily to Gamay, face Southeast, South, and Southwest, and about two thirds of the property is on granite-based soil. The grapes are harvested manually and vinified completely without SO2. The wines are not chaptalized, filtered, or degassed and only natural yeasts are used for the fermentation. The wines of Dupeuble represent some of the best values in the Beaujolais today and are widely regarded for their very high quality and eminently reasonable price.

Kevin’s Notes:  There is NOT a lot of this wine. Beaujolais Blanc’s are Chardonnay, and very rare. This is a terrific fruit driven Chardonnay. It is luscious and rich on the palate balanced with acid. It is a wine created in the vineyards and we bought the wholesalers entire inventory – there are only 4 cases available!  Buy now for the holidays!!! Cooper’s Price $19.99 

 

Primarius Pinot Noir – Primarius wines embody sheer elegance where delicate flavors give way to full fruit expression; providing the most pleasurable drinking experience for wine lovers. Primarius wines represent the finest cool climate regions in Oregon and are a true reflection of the most famed varietal of the state, Pinot Noir. Latin for – distinguished – Primarius promises sophistication in every sip and exceeds expectations in quality, flavor and value.

Winemaker, Sarah Cabot, is the total package. She brings an ideal combination of ultra-premium Pinot Noir winemaking experience, good business sense, viticultural passion, and all-around poise and ease of articulation about what makes Oregon so special.

Already a familiar face and name in Oregon, Sarah has been making wine in the Willamette Valley for eight consecutive years. She has been the principal winemaker for Omero Cellars since its start in 2008. 

Tasting Notes: This Pinot Noir is a blend off vineyard sources throughout Oregon and is representative of one of Oregon’s great vintages. Aromatics suggest blackberries and Bing cherries accented by some subtle notes of cinnamon and clove. The palate carries these aromas on and compliments them with lively acidity and just a hint of oak sweetness. The mouthfeel is round and pleasant and yields some further depth suggesting Morello cherries and nutmeg. The finish lingers with soft, silky tannins and leaves an aftertaste of sweet red and black fruits and holiday spice. Cooper’s Price $15.99

 

 

Poggio Bonelli Chianti Classico – Located right in the heart of the area of origin of the Chianti Classico in Tuscany, the property covers about 810 hectares. Here, the local wine-making tradition dating back to the 16th century persists with vitality and vigour thanks to 83 hectares of cultivated vineyards whose grapes yield the renowned Poggio Bonelli wines.

One of the key factors to making this so wonderful is the fact it is hillside vineyard facing south in Chianti.  South and west facing vineyards gain more sun exposure to ripen the grapes.

95 points Wine Spectator:

Offers enticing aromas of black cherry, leather, tobacco, iron and earth. Well-structured and full of ripe fruit, this builds to a vibrant, tannic finish, with a lingering aftertaste of iron, cherry and leather. Should develop beautifully. (7/2018)

90 points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate:

The 2015 Chianti Classico is a stylish and contemporary wine with dark concentration and broad appeal. It sees 90% Sangiovese blended with 10% Merlot. It delivers its intensity with force across the board with a lasting and generous disposition. The wine reveals aromas of dark cherry and prune with spice, tobacco and Spanish cedar. The oak impact is strong and needs a year or so to better integrate. If you are looking for a soft and rich value wine to pair with steak or pork chops, this wine is up to the task for sure.Cooper’s Price $19.99

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St Cosme Little James Basket White – Château de Saint Cosme is the leading estate of  Gigondas and produces the benchmark wines of the appellation. The property has been in the hands of the Barruol family since 1570. Louis Barruol took over from his father in 1992 making a dramatic shift to quality and converting to biodynamics in 2010. The estate lies in the heart of Gigondas where 15 hectares of vineyard grow in the shade of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain. In addition to the estate-grown wines labeled “Château de Saint Cosme,” Louis Barruol buys grapes from contracted growers, labeling these “négociant” wines simply as “Saint Cosme.” Saint Cosme Little James’ Basket Press Blanc carries the Vin de Pays d’Oc IGP and is an unconventional blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc are traditionally grown in different regions but grow side by side in the Languedoc and Louis Barruol believes them to be complementary. The wine is vinified in stainless steel tanks.

Sauvignon Blanc brings acidity to the blend while Viognier provides fleshiness and attractive notes of stone fruit and flowers. Blending the two varieties results in an aromatic and fresh-tasting wine with aromas and flavors of peach blossoms, apricot, grapefruit, lychee fruit, and mangos and fennel. Cooper’s Price $14.99
 

Jean François Mérieau Cent Visages Côt (Malbec) – The estate spreads over 35 hectares across the hillsides and on the left bank of the Cher River and benefit for the greater part from a south-southeast orientation. These rich and complex soils allow the production of a range of wines that are varied and rich in color. Jean-François Mérieau took over the family estate in 2000. Since then, he has committed himself to rediscovering the terroir of the Loir-et-Cher, working the soils, plowing, cutting heavily, and harvesting by hand. Cent Visages, meaning ‘100 faces’ is the name given to this Côt, sourced from a single, 2.5 hectare 50-year-old vineyard in Saint Julien de Chedon, grown by Jean-François. Destemmed, then hand sorted on a sorting table before crushing and put into a vat. Hand plunging and delestage, followed by a long maceration (between 5 and 6 weeks) with natural yeasts. Maturation in buried concrete tanks with micro-oxidation then aged in neutral French oak for 24 months.

Incredibly concentrated and rustic, in a good way, the Cent Visages has a floral edge, with a core of currant, cherry and plum fruit. it shows a side of Malbec that’s quite different than the fruity, oaky ones from Argentina that most of us are familiar with. This is such a departure from the modern style: it’s lifted and fragrant, with rose petals and fresh strawberries drifting from the glass. There’s real elegance and a mouth-coating texture, while the finish carries hints of stone. Cooper’s Price $18.99 

MacPhail Sundawg Ridge Vinyard Pinot Noir – At 280 feet elevation, among rolling hills, old apple orchards and chestnut groves, the Sundawg Ridge Vineyard sits above the fog many mornings. This 6.9-acre, sustainably farmed vineyard was planted by the Kensler Family in 1999 and benefits from exceptional exposure, temperate microclimate and mineral rich Goldridge soils. 100% de-stemmed, 5 to 6-day cold soak, native and inoculated fermentation, native malolactic fermentation in barrel, battonage weekly for 3 months, and aged 16 months on lees in French oak barrels, 35% new. Bottled unfined and lightly filtered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas pick up interest and intensity over time in the glass Each and every vintage, the winemaker depends on this small Green Valley vineyard on a rolling hillside to declare itself a Pinot apart from most other expressions he’s fortunate to make. The powerful drumline is always the same: earthy, rich and dark from the Calera clone with spicy notes from the Pommard clone. Pomegranate leads the flavor explosion, backed by wild cherry. Toasty oak spice trends exotic, but doesn’t overpower the dominant red fruit. Bigger, richer, more opulent than most, it takes a  bit longer to evolve and show itself, but it’s always worth the wait. Cooper’s Price $32.99

Colterris 2016 Cabernet Franc – The name COLTERRIS was derived by combining a three letter abbreviation of Colorado “Col” with the Latin word “terris” meaning from the land. “COLTERRIS – from the Colorado land”. All COLTERRIS Wines are produced from 100% Colorado grapes grown in our estate vineyards in the Grand Valley AVA.

COLTERRIS is located in Palisade on Colorado’s beautiful and picturesque Western Slope. 50% Riverside Vineyard Cabernet Franc, 44% Katie’s Vineyard Cabernet Franc, 3% Riverside Vineyard Merlot, and 3% Riverside Cabernet Sauvignon. 2016 represents our first vintage incorporating fruit from Riverside Vineyard into our Cab Franc. By harvesting, fermenting and aging each vineyard block separately, we can refine our final blend to yield the best wine possible. In this case, Riverside is a strong contributor to the blueberry and spice components where Katie’s Vineyard showed more floral character and a more elegant palate profile.

Generously fruit forward in the glass, this Cabernet Franc starts with notes of dark cherry, blueberry and ripe plum followed by a floral perfume and just a touch of cracked pepper and toasty oak. Like the aroma, this wine opens on the palate with more dark cherry and strawberry jam. The balance of acidity and smooth tannin give an intense mid-palate before drawing to a smooth finish with just a touch of oak. Cooper’s Price $22.99

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Domaine Henri Pellé Menetou-Salon Rosé Morogues 2017 – The winemaker is the youthful Paul-Henri Pellé, grandson of the domaine’s founder, Henri Pellé. Paul-Henri’s mother, Anne, took control of the estate following the accidental death of her husband, the founder’s son, Eric, in 1995. Anne handles the business end, while her son spends his time in the vineyards and the domaine’s ultra-modern cellars. 

Direct pressing of grapes on arrival at the winery and fermentation in casks. Aged on the lees in stainless steel vats

From The Winery: Our Domaine takes its roots in Morogues,  a village at the far eastern end of the Loire Valley. Our cellars are close to the village centre, nestling below our beautiful “Les Cris” red grape vineyard. In each of our vineyard plots in the neighboring Menetou-salon and Sancerre appellations, we observe Mother Nature, cherishing and working with her so that she gives us her very best in return. In this part of the world, we think, make, and drink wine; sharing ideas, a glass of wine or two, and the taste of our land, with our friends and customs. 

Kevin’s Notes:  This is one our richer rosés as it offers aromatics of red berries ie. cranberry and ripe strawberry. Being made from Pinot Noir, this is a SERIOUS rosé and is NOT commonly found in the country, let alone in our valley. This is a VERY special price offering that was given to our store from our wholesaler. This price is temporary and when it’s gone – it’s gone! 

Cooper’s price $16.99

 St. Cosme Cotes-du-Rhone – Château de Saint Cosme is the leading estate of Gigondas and produces benchmark wines of the appellation. The property has been in the hands of the Barruol family since 1570. Louis Barruol took over from his father in 1992 making a dramatic shift to quality and converting to biodynamics in 2010. The estate lies in the heart of Gigondas where 15 hectares of vineyards grow in the shade of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain. In addition to the estate-grown wines labeled “Château de Saint Cosme,” Louis Barruol buys grapes from contracted growers, labeling these “négociant” wines simply as “Saint Cosme.”

Saint Cosme Côtes-du-Rhône is produced from 100% Syrah and is from the rocky and cool vineyards of Vinsobres and the stony Villafranchian terraces of the Gard. Vinsobres brings freshness and complexity while the terraced vineyards of the Gard contribute color and power. The wine is partially destemmed, fermented with natural yeasts, and vinified in concrete vats. 

This Syrah grows in ideal terroirs of the southern Rhône and shows the varietal’s typical spicy notes of sandalwood, violets, and black pepper. With its deep flavors and firm tannins, it is a natural match for grilled or smoked meat and dishes featuring herbs, roasted mushrooms, and onions. Seared venison or beef with black pepper and thyme or a Moroccan tagine of pigeon or chicken are complimented by the spicy characteristic of Syrah.

Cooper’s Price $16.99 

Envínate Benje Tinto 2017 – The brainchild of Laura Ramos, Jose Martínez, Roberto Santana and Alfonso Torrente, four friends who met while studying winegrowing at the University of Miguel Hernández in Alicante. Their work, both in the vineyard and winery, is focused on exploring the ancient, Atlantic-infused terruños of Ribeira Sacra and the Canary Islands, as well as exceptional vineyard plots across the Iberian Peninsula. The Envínate philosophy is simple: allow each parcel to fully express itself in the finished wine by utilizing old-fashioned farming and winemaking methods. The results are some of the most exciting wines being produced in Spain today.

The Benje wines are from vineyards in and around Santiago del Teide, high on the northwestern volcanic slopes of the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands). The viticulture is very old- fashioned: the vines grow untrained, the soil is worked by hand, and no chemicals are used. The island experiences a fairly temperate climate, enabling grapes to ripen at moderate alcohol levels while retaining bright acidity. The main challenges to viticulture are winds from the Atlantic and Africa and fluctuations in humidity.

Benje Tinto is sourced from several old-vine, untrained pie franco parcels of Listan Prieto (aka Mission or País). Each parcel is hand-harvested, destemmed and vinified separately, some in concrete and some in small open tubs. Maceration is 10-20 days (depending on parcel) with daily punch-downs, pressed 40% into concrete tank and the remainder into neutral French barriques for malolactic fermentation and aging on fine lees for 8 months, without battonage or added SO2. Bottling is without filtration, and clarified using natural vegetable proteins. This is a pure and vertical expression of high elevation, volcanic Canary terruño with notes of red and black fruits, peppercorns, purple flowers, and volcanic soil – a beautiful wine to pair with grilled meats and mojo rojo.

Cooper’s Price $24.99 

Chateau La Graula Bordeaux Superieur – This estate has been in the Bessette family since 1971. Jean-Paul, Alice and their son Mathieu are dedicated to their winemaking, and the resulting wines have bags of character. The vineyard sits right on the edge of the Bordeaux AOC, practically touching that of Bergerac. The vines benefit from a great mix of chalk and clay in the soil, bringing poise and balance to the wines. Typifying the red Bordeaux it goes through fermentation and a long maceration in stainless steel vats, then maturing in stainless steel vats and partially aged in oak barrels. 50% Merlot, 35% Cab. Franc, 15% Cab. Sauvignon

Deep red color with garnet tints. Black fruit aromas with a hint of toasted oak from the barrel aging. Delicate and supple, supported by beautiful tannins, round with a fine finish. Pair with red meats, roast chicken, and soft-ripened cheese. This wine will age well up to 6 years.

Cooper’s Price $16.99

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Le Grand Bouqueteau Chinon Rose – This rose, from France’s Loire Valley, is made of 100% Cabernet  Franc grapes from 13-45 year old vines in alluvial sand and chalky clay. This is a direct press wine, which is enough to get the clear pale rosé color. The fermentation is much like a white wine at low temperature (65 to 68°F). It is a clear pale orange color with floral and citrus notes. Dry and very aromatic, combining the complexity of a red wine with the liveliness and brightness of a white; it is soft and perfumed, with good weight and presence, and finishes on crisp and gentle notes. It will pair well with BBQ, salads, pizza, curry, or any light lunch. Great on its own as well! Cooper’s Price $12.99 

 

Bastianich Schioppettino –The Bastianich winery, founded in 1997, strives to understand the history and culture of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and take it to a new level. They create unique wines that speak of place but, at the same time, show remarkable power and balance. A native vine of the Colli Orientali, the Schioppettino was once known as Ribolla Nera: at the time the technologies were not yet avant-garde and it could happen that the bottled wine made ‘pop’ at the opening, due to an unexpected refermentation. Historical wine of the Friulian tradition, in the interpretation of Bastianich can be classic but hilarious, with a varietal character of consistent quality as well as reliable in the price!

Intense ruby red color with bright violet reflections, the nose has captivating hints of currants and wild strawberries, raspberries with a hint of aromatic herbs and black pepper. The mouth is elegant and graceful, has a sliding and pleasant freshness, with almost imperceptible tannin and a long fruity finish.

Excellent with red meats, skewered meats, game and medium-aged cheeses, it is unique with roasted guinea fowl. Cooper’s Price $17.99 

Juan Gil Honoro Vera Garnacha – Calatayud, Spain – In France’s Rhone region, grenache is used as an elegant blending grape. While in Spain, the sun-drenched, dry Aragon region, which includes Calatayud, is a great place to grow “heavy” fruit like Garnacha (the Spanish name for the grape). Here, aged vines produce fruit that exhibits the grape’s unique character and style. The grapes come mostly from old vineyards with low yields, located high on the hillsides, 700-1000 metres above sea level. The vineyards are planted in mainly decomposed slate and gravely clay soils. The fermentation was carried out in stainless steel tanks and then spent two months in French oak barrels. This all-garnacha wine’s bouquet features aromas of red and black cherry and blackberry. On the palate, taste plums, currants, pepper and spice notes. It has low tannins, and even with all its fruit characteristics, there’s not a hint of sweetness. Cooper’s Price $11.99

 

MacPhail Russian River Valley Pinot Noir “The Flyer” – James MacPhail grew up just north of San Francisco in Marin County and has been producing acclaimed Pinot Noirs for over ten years. James insists on using the finest grapes from the best Pinot Noir vineyards from the Santa Rita Hills, Sonoma Coast, and Anderson Valley. His wines exude grace, nuance, elegance, and subtlety but also carry a humble power. The MacPhail Pinot Noirs represent the upper echelon of California Pinot Noir.

Absolute minimal intervention is the foundation of winemaking at MacPhail Family Wines. The wineries approach relies on native yeasts for fermentation. Malolactic fermentation occurs naturally, without his introducing a culture. James uses traditional methods: pre-fermentation cold maceration, gentle punch downs by hand, barrel aging in French oak, no fining and no filtration. MacPhail winery is equipped with small fermenting vessels — stainless steel and French oak puncheons — that allow James MacPhail to isolate exceptional fruit and produce small-batch wines.

WINESTYR REVIEW MacPhail’s “The Flyer” moniker is reserved only for special Pinots from exceptional vintages and the very best vineyards. This 2013 bottling from the Susanna’s Vineyard in the Russian River Valley AVA is rich, creamy, and full-bodied with powerful red fruit flavors and a backbone of well-integrated toasted oak and spice. Very slightly reduced, this Pinot Noir is on the powerful end of the spectrum and needs at least an hour decant to open up. Cellar up to 15 years. Aged 16 months in 45% new French oak. Bottled unfined and unflitered.  

Interesting Note – MacPhail no longer makes this wine as he sold his label for an undisclosed amount of money.  The regular price for this wine is $59.99, and we have it on sale for $32.99!!