PATRICIA GASTAUD-GALLAGHER, STEVEN SPURRIER, AND JOANNE DEPUY...

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PATRICIA GASTAUD-GALLAGHER, STEVEN SPURRIER, AND JOANNE DEPUY...

MAY 2 0 21

322 WINES EVALUATED | 254 WINES REJECTED | 68 APPROVED
MOST INTERESTING WINE TASTED: Perricone, 2019. Caruso & Minini

Patricia Gastaud-Gallagher,
Steven Spurrier, and Joanne DePuy...

Patricia Gallagher (now Gastaud) had floated this idea
to Steven Spurrier to host a tasting of American wines
to all French judges...as sort of an American bicentennial
tribute to introduce American wines to the French public.
Of course, Mr. Spurrier will tell you that the British were of the finest Bordeaux (reds) and Burgundies (whites) that were featured at
not too keen on celebrating the independence of America, Caves de la Madeleine. Patricia was tapped to head out to California and start the
but thought the idea of introducing American wines search. And coincidentally, her trip started in April 1976 with a visit to her sister
through the Académie du Vin was a fabulous idea. in Palos Verdes Estates (the city of the alma mater of my father, who started this
very club).
The two set out to strategize the selections and promote
the tasting; pick the wines, curate the judges and host My father recalls Patricia visiting the wine shop and telling him of this tasting
this extravaganza. Selecting the wines started with what caper...but alas, Patricia did not visit the store as he recalls, it was her sister who
they were not going to show, meaning it was obvious actually frequented the store and told dad of her sister’s caper. After the two-day
to them to leave out the “big” guys...wineries such as stop, up to Napa Patricia went to begin evaluating Napa wines (Patricia is slated to
Robert Mondavi, Charles Krug and Beaulieu. They wanted be on Wine “Talks with Paul K” next month).
upstarts, small, hand-crafted wines to put up against some

MEMBERSHIP IN THE WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB IS OPEN TO ANYONE WITH contd >>
AN INTEREST IN & APPRECIATION FOR SUPERB WINES...

@WineoftheMonthClub @WineoftheMonth & EXCELLENT WINE VALUES. MEMBERSHIP IS FREE.

Soon after, Mr. Spurrier followed suit and arrived to continue the search.
Here is where it gets interesting. One Joanne DePuy, a single mom
of three and a wine and tennis travel guide, was tapped to host
Mr. Spurrier and take him around the valley to these “upstart” wineries
and see what they can peel back. She is the very person responsible for
taking Steven to Stags’ Leap, Château Montelena and Freemark Abbey.
What is amazing about her story is that it speaks to life’s situation.

More on that and her booklet “The Rest Of The Story,” next month.

Salud... be safe... stay well.
Paul Kalemkiarian The entire event captured in George Taber’s book, Judgment of Paris.
Owner/Cellarmaster

FLASHBACK Selection for June 1978
A LOOK BACK AT SOME STELLAR Corvo Salaparuta White 1975
SELECTIONS WITH ED MASCIANA This wine was virtually unknown when we featured it. But, soon afterwards it became
one of the most popular whites in the U.S. Its easy-drinking approachability is what our
members loved and apparently they weren’t alone in their love for this wine.

Selection for February 1979
Wente Brothers Petite Sirah 1976
One of the oldest wineries as well as the longest family-owned winery in America, Wente
Vineyards was founded in 1883 when Carl H. Wente purchased 47 acres of vineyard land in
the Livermore Valley. We were always great fans of their wines and this Petite Sirah was one
of the standouts. They’re still around and they’re still making great wines.

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ The value is amazing... ” – PK

u e SCO RE

SILVER LINING al

*
2019 PINOT NOIR
California
13.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ pee • noh • nwahr ”

It is not easy to find a really good Pinot Noir at a great price. The reason COLOR
is that it is one of the most difficult grapes to grow and wines to make. Medium Magenta
It’s quite fussy in the vineyard, demanding warm weather at certain times
and cool weather at others with no exceptions. Mother Nature isn’t always
so accommodating. NOSE
Cherry, Vanilla
It also doesn’t like to produce too many grapes on a vine. A typical acre of
Pinot Noir vines will produce about one-third less grapes than an acre of PALATE
Cabernet Sauvignon. As if that isn’t enough, once crushed the wine likes Lush Fruit
to oxidize quickly so one has to make sure it is kept as airtight as possible.
FINISH
Wineries, like O’Neill, go through all this trouble because the finished wine Plush Tannins
is worth it. Their vast sources of vineyards and incredibly sophisticated
facility allow them to put out a wine like this Silver Lining at a price other
wineries can only dream of. Well, this dream is a reality for them.
PAIRING
Red Meat, Game, Fowl

Just have the word Sonoma, Santa Rita Hills or Santa Lucia on a
Pinot Noir label and you just added $10-$15 to the price. O’Neill’s holdings CELLAR
in cooler areas of Lodi, Paso Robles, and Clarksburg allow them to put out Now thru 2024
an amazing wine without the added price for its location.

Here is a classic Pinot offering cherry and pomegranate flavors with
hints of spiced apple and red licorice. The plush vanilla from ID: C0521R1DC
French oak comes through and dances with a rack of lamb or Reorder Price: $9.99
duck sausages.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

Look what people are saying about
the Original Wine of the Month Club...
Unbelievable selection of wines I’ve been a member for several years...
Unbelievable selection of wines, often I’ve been a member for several years now
selling for less than Costco!! – Alan and consistently happy with the wine selec-
tions and replacement policy should some-
thing be not quite right for me. I’m excited
I have always had excellent customer...
for each new shipment! It’s a lot of fun to try
I have always had excellent customer
new wines without the guessing. – Gina
service and the choices of wine sent me
have been wonderful. I certainly have no
complaints about anything to do with your Excellent wines
wonderful company. I also enjoy the email Excellent wines - just as expected and
“interviews”. – Karen delivered in no time and in a great box.
Great experience- Thank you. I’ll be
ordering again! – Paul
First shipment flawless & wines were...
new member
First shipment flawless & wines were great. The wine selection is excellent and the...
Special Valentines offer of rose & ruby The wine selection is excellent and the
chocolates was also great looking forward information on each wine. The online
to rest of the year offerings. – Daniel ordering is very user friendly and conve-
nient. And the customer service tab was
very helpful and quick responses.
Good value Thank you – Raymond Rodriguez
Good value for price – Richard

WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Old favorite... ” – PK

u e SCO RE

NOVINOPHOBIA al

*
2018 CHARDONNAY
California
13.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ shar • doh • nay ”

Our selection comes to us from the powerhouse wine company, O’Neill COLOR
Vintners. In less than 20 years they have become one of the top 30 wineries Medium Straw
in the United States. That’s quite an accomplishment for founder Jeff O’Neill,

NOSE
but not surprising. He hails from a vine grower family and grew up in the
business, learning it from the ground up. But, the finance degree is just
Vanilla, Guava
as important.

Too many people get seduced by the romance of the wine business, but Jeff PALATE
knows it is a business, and in many ways, very much like any business. It’s Lovely, Nuance
not about how much wine you make, it’s about how much you sell. O’Neill
sells his wines easily because the price-to-value ratio is better than most. In FINISH
other words, his wines are great values. Citrus Notes

They named the wine Novinophobia as a hyperbole for never wanting to run PAIRING
out of wine. We’d like to add a word to that phrase, never wanting to run out Seafood, Fowl,
of good wine. All that being said, we’re always delighted to feature O’Neill’s Vegetarian
wines and they’re always hits with our members.
CELLAR
O’Neill not only owns three separate wineries, but a vast array of vineyards Now thru 2022
dotted all over California. This allows him to pick and choose from their
sources to make the best wine possible every year. Our selection is a classic
Chardonnay with all the green apple flavors to match any ID: C0521W1DC
warm vanilla pudding or key lime pie you could ask for and
Reorder Price: $8.99
then some.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
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            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

            www.womclub.com/update
       or call us at 1-800-949-9463 to update

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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Consistent Chilean... ” – PK

FUEGO u e SCO RE

AUSTRAL al

*
2019 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Central Valley, Chile
12.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ cab • er • nay • saw • vee • nyon ”

We tend to think of Chile as one place to find great wine bargains. COLOR
However, just as any other winemaking area, like California, it’s not just Medium Magenta
one place, but many. Over the years we have noticed the differences in
wines made in Maipo, Casablanca or Colchagua and have enjoyed each for
their subtleties. NOSE
Berry, Spice
Fuego Austral owns vineyards in each of these districts and thus can blend
myriad of different lots to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its PALATE
parts. Their modern and technically proficient winery can monitor each lot Lovely Black Fruit
of wine separately and keep them separate until the final blend is decided
upon. It’s this kind of attention to detail we look for in a producer and FINISH
are seldom disappointed. Once again, this environmentally conscious and Lush
sustainable estate has presented us with another winner.

It is interesting to note that when Chile was attracting producers from
PAIRING
Red Meat, Fowl
all over the world many planted Cabernet Sauvignon. After all, it is the
most popular red grape in the world. But, being popular doesn’t mean it
can grow anyplace, but it turned out that Chile was one of those places. CELLAR
Fuego Austral found out that some areas, like the Central Valley, produce Now thru 2024
better Cabernet Sauvignon than others.

Like many of the best Cabernets, our selection comes on with subtle
cherry and plum, but also adds a touch of blueberry and spice ID: C0521R2IC
to the mix as well. The result is a nuanced blend of rich flavors Reorder Price: $9.99
ready to take on a beef pot pie or baby back ribs.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
         PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
         FOR SHIPMENT & TRACKING NOTIFICATIONS.

            MOVE RECENTLY? CREDIT CARD LOST OR STOLEN?
            To ensure uninterrupted delivery of your hand
            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

            www.womclub.com/update
       or call us at 1-800-949-9463 to update

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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
                                                                   “ Solid CA Pinot Grigio... ” – PK

COOKIES                                                                                 u e SCO RE

AND CREAM                                                                             al

                                                                                       95

                                                                                  v

                                                                                                  *
2016 PINOT GRIGIO
California
12.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ pee • noh • GREE • joe ”

Cookies and Cream comes to us from our good friends at Terravant Wine                   COLOR
Company, a $30 million wine facility in Buellton, just outside of the quaint                Very Pale
town of Solvang. They control vineyards all over California and even in
many other countries, making them a force to be reckoned with anywhere
in the world.                                                                              NOSE
                                                                                        Apple, Peach
That force doesn’t preclude the fact that quality and service are their
first concerns. It wouldn’t make sense to spend that much money on a                   PALATE
facility and produce wine that wasn’t very good. Over the years, they have         Touch of Cinnamon
brought us wine at prices nobody could touch and the quality is always
above the norm.                                                                         FINISH
                                                                                          Light, Citrus
It’s because of that quality and service we are thankful that we have this
partnership. The company was founded by a group of wine professionals
with the idea of providing a facility for winemakers with great skills, but
                                                                                      PAIRING
                                                                                              Seafood
no winery to work in. In other words, they are a winery for hire where they
rent space, equipment, and experience. It all works.
                                                                                      CELLAR
When they encounter exceptional wines with no home, they come to us to                Now thru 2022
see if there’s any interest. There almost always is, especially in this case.
Our selection hails from many of the coastal vineyards they control, and
it shows in the wine’s delicacy. From the floral notes in the nose to the
luscious middle, it sings with apple and spice notes to invite                ID: C0521W2DC
an ahi sandwich with avocado or roasted peppers marinated            Reorder Price: $8.99
in garlic and olive oil.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Love the winery and blend... ” – PK

u e SCO RE

MEZCLADA al

*
2018 MEZCLA DE RESERVA
Maipo Valley, Chile
13 % Alcohol by Volume
“ mez • klah • deh • res • ser • vah ”

Mezclada comes to us from the Chilean powerhouse producer, Cuatro COLOR
Almas, “four souls.” The word means “mixed” or “blended” in Spanish. Medium Magenta
It fits with our selection as it is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon,
25% Malbec and 25% Carménère.
NOSE
Layers of Berries
Chile began its winemaking in the mid-1800s, which is about the same
time California started. They too imported cuttings from Europe, but
mostly from France. One of those grapes was labeled “Merlot,” but it PALATE
turned out not to be Merlot. It was confused with Merlot because it tasted Silky Berry
like Merlot. Even the French called it Merlot until DNA profiling came
along and identified it as a grape called Carménère. The French would FINISH
have nothing of it and it was banished from Bordeaux. However, it was Medium Tannins
good enough for the Chileans, and they embraced it as their own.
PAIRING
While California was making great strides in wine quality, Chile was Red Meat, Game
saddled with a sluggish economy and, as a result, lackluster wines. But, a
few producers decided they would have to make good quality wine to stay CELLAR
afloat. The more they did, the more the world noticed. Now thru 2024

Today Chile’s wineries reads like a who’s who of stellar producers from all
over the world. Names like Mondavi and Rothschild cover the landscape
and make wines like this stellar Mezclada. Luscious currants ID: V0521R1IC
and cranberry fill the air and the palate, followed by engaging Reorder Price: $13.99
spice and vanilla. A classic Chilean BBQ awaits.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ This is a favorite... ” – PK

u e SCO RE

RMH al

*
2018 PINOT NOIR
Petaluma Gap, Sonoma County, California
14.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ pee • noh • nwahr ”

RMH stands for River Myst Haven, a perfect name for a winery located in one COLOR
of the coolest (both literally and figuratively) areas of Sonoma. Winemaker Soft Magenta
Leo Hansen, son of a chef and hotelier, grew up in Denmark. He began
working in his father’s kitchen at age 12 and later on learned about wine
from the hotel’s sommelier. That was all it took. NOSE
Spiced Apple
He travelled to France, Spain and Italy in the early 90s and earned a
European sommelier certification before landing in California. He worked PALATE
his way through the vineyards of California before landing in Sonoma. Smooth

Leo’s European background was very instrumental in his desire to craft
wines with lower alcohols, more backbone, and the ability to age gracefully. FINISH
Sonoma’s Russian River Valley provided the most likely place he could find Lingering
to do just that. Judging from the wines he’s crafted, it was a great choice.
PAIRING
Our selection is a perfect example of the Pinot Noir grape we prefer over all Red Meat, Fowl, Game
others. It is a bit lighter than most from California, with elusive fruit, lilting
balance, and an authoritative finish. The oak component adds complexity
and spice but doesn’t hide the floral and spice notes underneath.
CELLAR
Now thru 2025
The color is lighter than most, which is how it should be, as manipulation
of the grapes is needed for dark Pinot Noir. Here the natural aromas
and flavors, not the process, stand out. The nose of cherry blossom and
spice mixed with a touch of mint would be just the ticket ID: XR7257W
for chicken tagine or lamb shanks cooked in tomato sauce Reorder Price: $17.98
and garlic.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
         PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
         FOR SHIPMENT & TRACKING NOTIFICATIONS.

            MOVE RECENTLY? CREDIT CARD LOST OR STOLEN?
            To ensure uninterrupted delivery of your hand
            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

            www.womclub.com/update
       or call us at 1-800-949-9463 to update

WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
                                                                        “ Perfect example... ” – PK

                                                                                         u e SCO RE

GRIN                                                                                   al

                                                                                        97

                                                                                   v

                                                                                                  *
2018 PINOT GRIGIO
Friuli, Italy
12.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ pee • noh • GREE • joe ”

Our selection is crafted by the incomparable house of Volpe Pasini in Friuli.            COLOR
The estate is located in Villa Rosa, which Villa Pasini established in 1596 as a            Pale Gold
complex to welcome visitors and family. Little did they know then that Friuli
was destined to be known as one of the greatest white wine-producing
areas in the world.                                                                         NOSE
                                                                                              Intense
While more than 70% of Italian wine production is red, it’s almost a shock
to the system to realize the stature of Friuli for whites, yet its reputation
is legendary. Its fame really didn’t come about until the 1970s when Italy              PALATE
                                                                                     Layers of Quince,
realized that they couldn’t keep making white wines the way they made
                                                                                                Apple
reds. That method was to crush the grapes and put them in barrels where
they oxidized quickly and died before bottling.
                                                                                         FINISH
Instead, they followed the rest of the world with cold fermentation, aging               Insanely Long
in stainless steel and enforcing strict control over oxidation. The results
were transformative. Almost overnight, Friuli became the buzzword for
phenomenal white wine and its star just keeps rising.                                  PAIRING
                                                                                   Seafood, Appetizers
All 21 wine districts in Italy make Pinot Grigio, but none command the
stature of those from Friuli. Obviously, it’s the soil and climate here that           CELLAR
makes the difference, but the winemakers are now in possession of a                    Now thru 2023
reputation they must deliver on and that makes it even more exciting.

In our case the excitement is delivered. The classic floral nose leads into
the densely structured flavors of green apple and papaya with                ID: V0521W1II
layers of spice and citrus that could command an antipasto          Reorder Price: $12.99
plate of gorgonzola, prosciutto, mortadella, and fontina.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
         PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
         FOR SHIPMENT & TRACKING NOTIFICATIONS.

            MOVE RECENTLY? CREDIT CARD LOST OR STOLEN?
            To ensure uninterrupted delivery of your hand
            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

            www.womclub.com/update
       or call us at 1-800-949-9463 to update

WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Great fruit... ” – PK

VIGNERONS u e SCO RE

DE CAMPLONG al

*
2019 PEYRES NOBLES
Corbières AOC (Languedoc, France)
14.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ pere • noh • blah ”

Vignerons de Camplong is a small cooperative of 30 winegrowers, founded COLOR
in 1932. The winery is located in heart of the Corbières appellation in the Deep Ruby Red
Languedoc region of France. It is known as “land blessed by the gods”
where a monastery was built in 1093. The harmony of nature is so perfect
that’s it’s easy to imagine that this land was created expressly to grow
NOSE
Small Red Fruits,
the finest wines. Corbières is the largest AOC from the Languedoc Spices, Garrigue
region, representing 46% of production. Created in 1985, the AOC covers
33,500 acres of vineyards. It has very specific regulations. PALATE
Berries, Cherry,
The Syrah and Carignan in this blend undergo carbonic maceration, while Licorice, Sweet Spices
the traditional winemaking process is applied to the Grenache. Carbonic
maceration is a popular technique in Beaujolais but is also used in Corbières. FINISH
This method involves filling a sealed vessel with carbon dioxide, then Good Structure and
adding whole intact bunches of grapes. Once the alcohol reaches 2% the Richness, Long Finish
berries burst, releasing their juice naturally. This process enhances fruity
aromas and softens the tannins. PAIRING
Duck Leg Confit,
The nose evokes notes of red fruit, blackberry, spices and garrigue (which Cassoulet, Lamb,
refers collectively to the wild-growing bush plants of the region such as Mushroom Pasta, Pork
lavender, juniper, and rosemary). This wine is medium to full-bodied, it
has structure with richness, complexity, and is very focused. Pair this CELLAR
wine with duck leg confit or add some pork hock and beans and serve it Now thru 2023
with cassoulet. It will also pair nicely with roast lamb or grilled pork. For
a vegetarian option, pair with a creamy garlic and mushroom
pasta. When cooking with a plan to serve this wine, add spices ID: L0521R1IF
such as cinnamon, cumin, 5-spice powder, star anise, and dried Reorder Price: $17.49
herbs to the dish to bring out those same flavors in the wine.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Great maker, great district... ” – PK

u e SCO RE

OGIER al

*
2017 VACQUEYRAS
Vacqueyras, France
14 % Alcohol by Volume
“ vah • keh • rahs ”

After half a century of wine talk, it’s easy to get jaded. One more “Vintage COLOR
of The Century” or “Top 10 List” or “The Greatest” and it all becomes an Very Dense
audible blur. Then a vintage like 2017 in the Rhône comes along and has
you standing on your head trying to believe it. Well, we’re believers.
NOSE
Spice, Berry
It also helps that we get to feature a wine from one of our favorite producers,
Ogier, and especially from a lesser known appellation, Vacqueyras. Etienne
PALATE
Ogier established his negociant business with his sons in 1859. They bought Large & Lovely
finished wines from small producers, blended them, and sold them under
their own name. By 1895, they began producing Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
FINISH
Keeps Going
It wasn’t until 1948 that they had their own estate winery and could make
wine from their vineyards. It’s that kind of dedication we admire most of our
producers. As the pecking order goes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is at the top.
PAIRING
Red Meat, Game
Then comes Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Côtes du Rhône. But, when a vintage
like 2017 comes along the lines get very blurry.
CELLAR
Now thru 2025
Last year, we featured their 2017 Côtes du Rhône that most tasters thought
was Châteauneuf-du-Pape and it was one-fourth the price. This selection
is in similar territory. The blend is equal parts of Grenache, Syrah, and
Mourvèdre aged in large casks. The blend offers monumental
ID: L0521R2IF
flavors of black cherry and spice with hints of floral notes and
anise. Braised goat or lamb shanks would do nicely.
Reorder Price: $17.49

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
         PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
         FOR SHIPMENT & TRACKING NOTIFICATIONS.

            MOVE RECENTLY? CREDIT CARD LOST OR STOLEN?
            To ensure uninterrupted delivery of your hand
            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

            www.womclub.com/update
       or call us at 1-800-949-9463 to update

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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Falanghina? Yes, please. ” – PK

u e SCO RE

CAMPI VALERIO al

*
2019 FALANGHINA
Molise, Italy
13 % Alcohol by Volume
“ FA • lan • GHEE • nah”

The Valerio Family has been stewards of their 1,200 acres of land for COLOR
nearly 200 years. They are pretty much self-sufficient as they are not only Very Pale
sustainable, but besides their 40 acres of vineyards, they also farm 75
acres of olive trees, 250 head of cattle, and 2,000 sheep which not only
provide sustenance, but natural fertilizer as well.
NOSE
Tropical

Falanghina is one of those grapes that makes us smile by just hearing
the word, let alone tasting this incredible wine. It was planted here in PALATE
Campania around 700 BC by the Greeks when they were controlling the Expansive
world as they knew it. When the Romans took over, they kept it as their
own and for good reason. For over 2,000 years it has been linked to some FINISH
of the earliest note-worthy wines made in the world. As far as we’re Very Elongated
concerned, that’s no surprise.
PAIRING
The wine is a veritable fruit basket of flavors, each more enticing than Shellfish
the other. Given that lofty description, it is hard to imagine that for some
inexplicable reason its plantings decreased to the point of near extinction CELLAR
100 years ago. Now thru 2022

Thankfully, producers like Valerio wouldn’t let that happen and led the
charge for its emergence. Today, this beautiful varietal is in full force,
offering its peach, guava and quince flavors, and piquant kiwi ID: L0521W1II
finish. Matching it with a shrimp pasta finished with a touch Reorder Price: $15.49
of cream and vermouth would be mesmerizing.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
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TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
                                                                      “ Out of left field... ” – PK

                                                                                          u e SCO RE

STATION 26                                                                              al

                                                                                         97

                                                                                   v

                                                                                                     *
2020 ROSÉ
Napa Valley, California
13.1 % Alcohol by Volume
“ roe • SAY ”

Armed with a winemaking degree from UC Davis, winemaker Ian McCaffrey                      COLOR
hit the ground running and worked stints at Schramsberg, Joel Gott,                      Pale Rose with
Orin Swift, Joseph Phelps, Robert Mondavi, and Louis Martini wineries.                    Hints of Ruby
His passion project, California Icons, launched in 2020 with the release
of a 2019 Rosé of Grenache from the Central Coast and a 2018 Napa Red                         NOSE
last fall. McCaffrey says that his longtime goal for California Icons is to        Floral, Tropical Fruit,
“continue to create accessible, value-priced labels...that highlight special                       Citrus
places across my beautiful home state.”
                                                                                         PALATE
                                                                                   Aromatic, Crisp Fruit
McCaffrey works with a small number of growers in the Santa Barbara and
                                                                                      and Effervescent
San Luis Obispo appellations that provide him with grapes. The grapes are
picked in the cold early morning hours. Then whole clusters go directly
                                                                                           FINISH
into the press, and the juice is slowly fermented at low temperatures to                Refreshing with
preserve the peak freshness of the aromatics, effervescence, and crispness              Pleasing Acidity
you will find in this wine. With the help of his trusted growers, McCaffrey
is able to coax the bright fruit flavors and exciting freshness out of this            PAIRING
wine, showcasing the skills he has honed through the years working in          Seafood, Veggie Skewers,
the industry.                                                                     Feta Tart, Soft Cheeses

This fresh California Rosé pairs well with anything you’d eat for afternoon       CELLAR
                                                                                    Enjoy Now
picnic on the beach. Think dishes that include local seafood, such as fish
tacos, a niçoise salad or Santa Barbara uni. This Rosé is perfect for the
warm-weather months, as it will pair nicely with light veggie                ID: R0521R1DC
skewers or a feta, spinach, and mint tart. Soft cheeses and a        Reorder Price: $17.00
fresh baguette will also complement this wine nicely.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Clean crisp. ” – PK

u e SCO RE

DANCING CROW al

*
ROSÉ 2020
Lake County, California
12.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ roe • SAY ”

Owner, Dan Dawson, has had an incredible 25-year career in one of wines’ COLOR
number one playgrounds, Napa Valley. He’s been a sommelier at the French Pale Pink
Laundry, wine buyer at Dean and DeLuca, and now heads winemaking at
Dancing Crow. We’re guesing he knows a thing or two about great wine.
NOSE
The 2020 vintage in Napa was very difficult, so Dan went to Lake County Berry, Jasmine
for this astonishing rosé. Lake County is one of the best kept secrets in
California. It borders the east side of Sonoma and the north side of Napa,
garnering benefits from each. PALATE
Enveloping
Most winemakers would take the base wine of this selection, a single
vineyard syrah, and make an outstanding, rich red wine from it. Dan did FINISH
that, but he also reserved a some of the syrah for this rosé. This selection is Tart
a blend of 83% Syrah and 17% Sauvignon Blanc. We applaud these efforts
as he valued quality above all else here, since one can’t sell a rosé for the
same price as a syrah. PAIRING
Appetizers, Seafood
Making rosé should be easier than it is. After all, it’s a lovely, refreshing
wine with a little body and piquant flavors. But, the timing is extremely CELLAR
important. One crushes the grapes and leaves them on the skins for just a Now thru 2022
few hours to attain that blush of color and still retain the flavor. Too little
time and there’s no flavor. Too much and it’s, well, too much.

So, this selection is what we hold dear in a rosé. Fresh strawberry, floral
hints, and acacia permeate the glass and descend on the ID: R0521R2DC
palate equally. The finish goes on and would pair well with a Reorder Price: $16.00
tuna carpaccio.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
         PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
         FOR SHIPMENT & TRACKING NOTIFICATIONS.

            MOVE RECENTLY? CREDIT CARD LOST OR STOLEN?
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            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Solid Bordeaux... ” – PK

L’ETRE u e SCO RE

MAGIQUE al

*
2016 BORDEAUX
Bordeaux, France
13.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ bore • DOH ”

Our selection comes from a small, but respected producer, Maison de COLOR
Grand Esprit. They seem to surround themselves in superlatives as the Very Deep
name means “The House of Great Spirit” and L’Etre Magique translates to
“The Magical Being.”
NOSE
Once you explore their wines and learn of their passion it’s hard to argue Violets, Blueberry
their marketing boldness. Winemaker, Florent Gauthier, grew up in
Bordeaux in a family of grapegrowers going back three generations. But, PALATE
Florent had an advantage none of his ancestors had. That was the ability Richly Textured
to easily study winemaking in many countries like Australia, Argentina,
and the United States.
FINISH
His experience was extremely important because it presented new ideas Long, Slow, Penetrating
and new “traditions” that are not normally available in his backyard.
Bordeaux’s reputation can also be a hinderance as it can lead to being PAIRING
isolated and thus, out of the influence of the rest of the world. Florent Red Meat, Cheeses
would have none of that. He wanted to know as much as possible from as
many sources as possible.
CELLAR
Now thru 2025
Not only did he make wine in different areas he even took the streets to
sell it in Paris. It gave him incredible insight into all facets of the business,
and this shows in his wines. For this magnificent selection, Florent used
70% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon with splashes of Cabernet Franc
and Malbec. The rich berry mingles with the vanilla and fine ID: B0521R1IF
tannins to markedly impact a cheese soufflé or Wagyu burger Reorder Price: $20.99
with caramelized onions.

* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Just love it... ” – PK

CHÂTEAU SAINT SEURIN al
u e SCO RE

DE LEVIAC
97

*
2018 BORDEAUX
Bordeaux, France
14.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ bore • DOH ”

A curious thing has been occurring in the Entre-Deux-Mers district of COLOR
Bordeaux. It’s called red wine. This area was, and to a point still is, the Deep Magenta
largest white wine producing area in France. But, that has been changing in
the last decade and for good reason. The wines represent great values and
are getting better. NOSE
Black Cherry
The Château is one of several under the control of Renaud and Claire Jean.
It is named after Saint Seurin, the patron saint of Bordeaux. Renaud, the
winemaker, is considered a bit of a rebel here. The principle red grape here
PALATE
Side-to-side Luscious
has always been Merlot, but Renaud began crafting wines out of Cabernet
Sauvignon when it became obvious that in certain vintages in certain places
of the vineyard, the wine was better. FINISH
Long, Invigorating
However, in keeping with his reputation, Renaud made his best wine in
2018 out of 100% Merlot. There’s no sense in trying to make sense of all PAIRING
this. After all, all we’re looking for is a great wine at a great price and it Red Meat
seems that’s what Mr. Jean delivers.

Because Bordeaux was created millions of years ago with seismic occurrences CELLAR
and volcanic eruptions, its soil is really not much soil at all. It’s mostly bits of Now thru 2025
dirt squeezed in between rocks, limestone, and clay. In other words, perfect
for grape growing.

And our selection is everything Bordeaux is about. Earth tones
ID: B0521R2IF
mixed with black fruits, plum, vanilla spice, and dark chocolate
to seize a flank steak marinated in soy and ginger. Sounds Reorder Price: $20.99
rather saintly.
* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
WWW.WINEOFTHEMONTHCLUB.COM | 1.800.949.9463

TASTING NOTES
Wine: _______________________________________________________
Color: _______________________________ Date:___________________
Tasting Comments: ____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

               UPDATE YOUR
               CONTACT INFO

   SEND US YOUR UPDATED INFORMATION
         PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
         FOR SHIPMENT & TRACKING NOTIFICATIONS.

            MOVE RECENTLY? CREDIT CARD LOST OR STOLEN?
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            selected wine, please update your credit card
            information and/or shipping information online:

            www.womclub.com/update
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WHY I CHOSE THIS WINE
“ Love the Sauvignon Blanc... ” – PK

u e SCO RE

DOURTHE al

*
2018 BORDEAUX BLANC
Bordeaux, France
12.5 % Alcohol by Volume
“ bore • DOH BLONK ”

Pierre Dourthe was a hotelier in Landes, located on the southwest corner COLOR
of France. He became involved in representing Bordeaux properties, selling Very Pale
their wines to merchants and restaurants. Apparently, he had no ambition
to actually own a château of his own.
NOSE
Fast forward 30 years when his eldest son, Jean, moved to Bordeaux and the White Peach
plot thickens. One thing that came into play was the Bordeaux Classification
of 1855, which established a hierarchy of what the best places were, and
which were the best châteaux. That helped put Bordeaux into everyone’s
PALATE
Luscious Fruit, Citrus
memory and solidified its position in the wine world.

By 1929, the Dourthe family had purchased several châteaux and were on FINISH
their way. Today, they control some eight properties in several different Very Dramatic
appellations in Bordeaux and all are highly prized.
PAIRING
We are very partial to white Bordeaux because, in many ways, it is one of Seafood
the purest expressions of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Most white Bordeaux
add a percentage of Sémillon and even Muscadelle. We tend to like wines
like Dourthe as it is 100% Sauvignon Blanc. CELLAR
Now thru 2022
What separates this wine from most is skin contact. This procedure adds
tannins and impact to the wine but must be carefully controlled or it could
render the wine too tart. It’s a matter of hours, not days, so monitoring is
important. When they get it right, like here, the lip-smacking
ID: B0521W1IF
intensity doesn’t stop. White peach and granite unite with
lemon peel to craft a perfect foil for halibut Provençal or seared Reorder Price: $18.99
albacore with tomato concasse.
* value score: the points awarded to a wine compared to wines tasted of the same price, region and varietal.
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