Austrian Wine Tasting

by jayme.persons, September 19, 2011 | Permalink

Good evening. It’s late on Sunay night, but I just couldn’t leave without letting you know about our Austrian wine tasting and wine class on Tuesday. If you’ve never tried – or even thought about – Austrian wines then this is the night to come to the store. The whites and the reds – especially the St. Laurent from Zanthos (if you like Pinot Noirs) – are really fun alternatives to the more traditional grape varietals.

Representatives from two Austrian wineries, Zanthos and Domane Wachau, will be pouring samples and talking about their wines. They will also be my guest speakers during the wine class.

When: Tuesday, Sept 20th
Wine Tasting: 5pm – 6pm (free)
Wine Class: 6pm – 7pm (free – but reservations are strongly suggested as space is limited)

Drop in for the tasting if just want to try the wines, sign up for the class if you want to try the wines and learn about Austria as a wine growing country.

To register for the class please call the store and register with customer service or email our wonderful marketing guru, Jayme Persons, at  Jayme.Persons at wholefoods.com

I’m looking forward to the event; I hope to see Tuesday night.

Cheers,
Manjula Desilva
Wine Buyer

Some Great Sales

by jayme.persons, July 22, 2011 | Permalink

Looking for a great deal on a Cabernet or a Pinot Noir?  Then look no further than Pennywise.  A BIG Cab and a lush Pinot for a great deal – both normally $14.99 but now on sale for $9.99.  Whether you are stocking up for a party or just need a really good wine for tonight, these two are your go to wines.

Have a bit of a sweet tooth?  If you like your sweetness with a side of bubbles, then try the Emeri Sparkling Pink Moscato.  This is chilled, carbonated, candy – for adults; sweet ripe strawberries and raspberries in an effervescent explosion.   Great by itself but works really well to off-set really salty cheeses or spicy food.  On sale for $13.99, normally $16.99.

Thank you, thank you to all of you who came out to our Wine Explorers’ class two weeks ago.  I had a blast talking to all of you and tasting through the wines with you.  But what did you think?  I’d love to have your feedback on ways we could improve the class.  I hope that each of you found a new grape or wine region to start exploring – or are just inspired to stray from your normal favorites every now and again.  I’m already starting to plot and plan for the next class which should be in late August.  Until then, remember to keep smelling everything and keep exploring wine.

Cheers,

Manjula deSilva
Wine Buyer

Red, White and Rose’

by jayme.persons, July 1, 2011 | Permalink

There’s almost no better way to celebrate the 4th of July than with a backyard grill.  And while beer is a classic option, don’t forget that there are plenty of wines that will pair nicely with your menu.  Light reds that match to burgers and steaks, crisp whites to keep you cool (and for your grilled shrimp), and rose’s when you want the flavor of red wine but want something served really cold.  Keep a bottle in reserve to sip while you watch the fireworks!  Have a safe and happy Independence Day.

And looking ahead… 

On Tuesday, July 12th from 6pm – 7pm, we’re having a Wine Explorers Class.  Join me for an informal survey of some light summertime wines made from grapes you probably haven’t seen that often – if ever.  I love exploring new grapes and new regions and I’m looking for a few adventurous souls to join me.  Pre-register with customer service quickly because space is limited – but hey – it’s free!  And don’t worry, if you miss this one; we will be doing at least one of these classes every month.

Cheers,

Manjula Desilva
Wine Buyer

Dad’s Day

by jayme.persons, June 17, 2011 | Permalink

Welcome to Friday – you have only two more days to choose a Father’s Day gift.  I know, sorry, you’ve probably been bombarded with that message since Mother’s Day.  And yet you’re still thinking.  A tie?  His closet is full of those.  A gift card?  Too impersonal.  If your father is anything like mine then he is impossible to buy gifts for; he either has it or he’ll never use it.  Now, if you’ll allow me, I offer a suggestion – your time.  Spend some time with your old man.  Whether over a meal or just drinks, this may build better memories for both of you than any piece of painted silk. 

Shameless Plug:  should you wonder what to serve, I suggest the Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir.  The 2006 vintage received 92 pts from the Wine Spectator but I’d rate it a touch higher.  It’s a wine for special occasions – on sale for $59.99 – but hey, it’s dad and it’s his special day. Happy Father’s Day to all of our fathers.

Cheers,

Manjula Desilva
Wine Buyer