Dandelion Wine Blog

Northern Italian Varietals Tasting

Meg — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 19:21:03 +0000

At tonight’s tasting, from 6-9 PM, we will be pouring three wines featuring the grapes of Northern Italy, an idyllic region home to some of the most crave-able flavors of the world.

2009 ST. MAGDALENA PINOT GRIGIO, ALTO ADIGE, ITALY:

Pinot Grigio can often leave a drinker wishing for more… this one from Alto Adige exceeds expectations. Ripe, fresh fruit is balanced with a lively minerality. Crisp and clean, this wine pairs beautifully with the freshest catch of the day. $18

2006 TENUTA DI BLASIG MERLOT, FRIULI, ITALY:

Winemaker Elisabetta Sarcinelli is the seventh generation of the same family behind Friuli’s Tenuta di Blasig Vineyard, operating since 1788. Her Merlot is a real steal- it’s full, fragrant, and slightly herbaceous on the nose. Drinking it brings to mind wild woodland berries. It pairs beautifully with poultry and game dishes. $13

And tonight’s wild card…

2009 MASSICAN “ANNIA”, NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA:

This extra-special, spirited Napa Valley white blend is made up of three grapes generally grown in Italy’s Friuli region. Friulano Tocai lends a unique floral quality, Chardonnay adds a fresh acidity, and Ribolla Gialla gives it some depth and structure. A favorite among the Dandy staffers, Steve claims it is “the best white wine I’ve tasted this year!” We have only a handful of bottles at the shop, as only 238 cases were produced, and we’re really excited to share one with you tonight! $29

As always, we’ll also be serving cheese and Scratchbread!

WINE TASTING TONIGHT, THURSDAY 7/22/10: ORGANIC WINE FROM SICILY

Lily — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:44:47 +0000

Between barbecues, bike rides, outdoor concerts, and trips to the beach,

Dandelion is having quite a busy summer.

We could certainly use a drink- thankfully it’s time for another Thursday night tasting!

And we are stoked to say that SCRATCHbread is BACK!!!

Di Giovanna is an estate located almost at Sicily’s geographic center, above the city of Sambuca. The high altitude vineyards are a trek to get to, but managed in full respect of organic farming principles. The Di Giovanna’s have been viticulturists for more than 5 generations in Sicily.

DI GIOVANNA GERBINO NERELLO MASCALESE ROSATO 2009, SICILIA

Made from 100% certified organic Nerello Mascalese, a grape sometimes called the “Pinot Noir” of Southern Italy. We are excited to add this wine to our selection of Roses in the fridge. Fragrant and juicy… perfect served ice cold on a hot summer day. $14

DI GIOVANNA GERBINO ROSSO 2008, SICILIA
A certified organic red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, and Nero d’Avola. Cheap and cheerful. Light and rustic. One of our favorite bangs for the buck. You can throw this guy in the fridge and serve it chilled too… $11

And tonight’s Wild Card:

CASTELLROIG ULL DE LLEBRE 2005, PENEDES SPAIN
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo from the land of Cava! The vineyard is surrounded by evergreens and through the magic of osmosis, one can detect a note of pine in this bold red wine. Maybe better for the cold months of winter, but we thought we’d shake things up a bit tonight… $16

COME TASTE!!!

SCRATCHBREAD IS BACK.

AND CHEESE!

TERRIFIC THURSDAY TASTING!

Lily — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 18:28:12 +0000

What a wonderful week it has been for international sport-the World Cup final

has been decided!

Sadly for France, they will not be competing; However, this Thursday from 6-9, Dandelion will be showcasing bottles far superior to their 2010 squad.

Importer Bertrand Demontoux will be here to pour three new additions to the Dandy shelves. All organic and from small producers, we’re sure you’ll find at least one winner.

The Team:

CLOS D’YVIGNE 2008 “PRINCESSE DE CLEVES” BERGERAC BLANC $15

This unique white blend (50% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Semillon, 20% Muscadelle) really stood out to us when we first tasted it. Dry, tangy, and herbaceous, we noticed a hint of fresh mint on the finish.This complex and rich white will really surprise you and we think it’s a must try this Summer.

GEFFARD AND GUILBAUD 2008 “EQUILIBRIUM” $14.50

A Dandelion staff favorite, this 50/50 blend of Gamay Noir and Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley really expresses the best qualities of both grapes. A perfect balance of ripe, red fruit and dry, dusty earth, this wine is sure to be a year round favorite.

CHATEAU LES CROISILLE 2007 “TRADITION” MALBEC $15

“Tradition” is a feisty yet refined Cahors Malbec, and a touch of Merlot adds a silky quality to the typically strong tannins found in wines of this region. Dark fruit, spice, and earth in equal parts- definitely a good one to pick up next time you plan to throw some meat on the grill.

And our tasting wouldn’t be complete without delicious CHEESE! Seeya tonight, while supplies last!

153 Franklin St

(between India and Java)

Greenpoint, Brooklyn

347.689.4563

BEAT THE HEAT IN BROOKLYN

Meg — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 22:37:35 +0000

You probably don’t need me to tell you that it’s hot, hot, hot here in Greenpoint- but we’re making the best of it by enjoying some of our ice cold wine (and strong AC) here at Dandelion! Here are a few of my favorites this summer, from all over the globe:

Fâmega Vinho Verde and Fâmega Rosé, $8.00

Hailing from Portugal, both wines are slightly effervescent, relatively low alcohol (around 10%), and totally refreshing.

The Vinho Verde, or “Green Wine”, is one of our most popular bottles here at Dandy. Made up of three grapes you may have never come across-Asal, Avesso and Pederna- this wine tastes of crisp green apples and citrus peel, and is best served very cold. Lily sometimes enjoys it on the rocks with a wedge of lime, while our neighborhood bike messengers turned me on to mixing it with a little bit of tropical fruit juice from the bodega on the corner. Passionfruit or guava juice are my faves. A Portuguese customer recently expressed horror when I told him this secret, but was kind enough to correct my pronunciation of the vineyard’s name- it’s FAH-muh-guh. Best of all, it’s very affordable! Pick up a couple of bottles and if you decide to get creative, let us know what you come up with in the comments below.

The same vineyard makes a beautiful pink wine to go with the green. Summer berries balance the tangy citrus notes on this yummy rosé. Again, with relatively low alcohol and a fantastic price, this is one you won’t be able to get enough of. I look forward to a long summer of rooftop sipping for this wine.

Vivanco Rioja Blanco, $12.50

The Vivanco family has been making wine for four generations in the Rioja region of Spain and this awesome white blend definitely shows their experience. Made up of hand-picked Viura (80%) and Malvasia (20%) grapes, the Vivanco reminds me of juicy pears, lychee, and pineapples, but a burst of acidity on the finish keeps it beautifully balanced. I first tried this at a Rioja tasting-turned sweaty dance party and it was the perfect refresher. Plus, the bottle is cool, and while you can’t always judge a book by it’s cover, we know good packaging is never overlooked by our discerning design-minded customers. The bottle was inspired by the original style used in the 18th century by the vineyard. History and quality- what more can you ask for?

Mittelbach Tegernseerhof Zweigelt Rosé, $16.00

Even though the name presents a real pronunciation challenge, we’ve been really thrilled with this zippy 2009 Austrian rosé since we first got it in last month, and I think it’s high time for us to express our love! This mouthwatering rosé has hints of watermelon, cherry, and strawberry on the palate with a crisp, dry finish. I think this gorgeous wine is incredibly versatile. I’m serving it for dinner tonight with a leafy spinach salad topped with sliced strawberries, goat cheese, and balsamic, followed by shrimp skewers from the grill. I promise there won’t be a test on how to say it…

[cox]* Colombard, $14.00

Named after the ladybugs that are naturally present on the vines, this vineyard in Southwestern France seeks to combine the best of old world and new world techniques in creating their innovative, fruit forward wines. Their Colombard is beautifully aromatic with a lot of zing on the palate- definitely a thirst-quencher with strong grapefruit, lemon, and passionfruit flavors. A perfect aperitif wine- this will get your mouth watering at the start of a boozy summer picnic.

STOCK UP FOR THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Lily — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 18:45:38 +0000

A nice long weekend is approaching…

start it off at Dandelion Wine!

Stock up for your BBQs and road-trips…

Save 10% on a mixed case of wine or 5% on a 6-pack!

And please join us for our first

THURSDAY NIGHT WINE TASTING,

tonight 6-9 PM…

TONIGHT WE WILL TASTE 3 WINES FROM IMPORTER SAVIO SOARES:

CARL EHRHARD 2009 ROCKEN RIESLING, GERMANY

This Riesling is ROCKIN’! ‘Rocken Riesling’ is a play on words… Rocken Riesling is a beautiful representation of a dry Riesling from Germany (called Trocken in German). Equally refreshing and complex… a steal at $15.

PETER WINTER WEINKELLEREL 2007 LATITUDE 50 PINOT NOIR, GERMANY

It’s finally back on our shelves! This great value Pinot Noir is mineral-rich and terroir driven as the great Pinots of the world tend to be. Fragrant of tart cherries and finishes with firm acidity. A refreshing red and a perfect pair with food. $15

IL BRUT AND THE BEAST VINO DA TAVOLA FRIZZANTE 2008, ITALY

A super groovy (and organic) bubbly from Piedmont. 50% Cortese, 25% Favorita, 25% Moscato. It’s one of those wines you just gotta try… $19

And as always… CHEESE!

We will be open all weekend!

Come see us:

153 Franklin Street

(between India and Java)

Greenpoint

Brooklyn

Or give us a call and we’ll deliver wine to your shindig:

347.689.4563

SUMMER LOVIN’ WINE TASTING

Lily — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 18:28:46 +0000

It is officially summertime;

Come cool down and taste some of our favorite summer sippers!

Our last Friday Tasting will feature an elegant un-oaked Chardonnay from Beaujolais, a juicy, chillable California Gamay, and a low-alcohol pink bubbly that will keep the pep in your step no matter how hot it is outside…

OTHER NEWS: Tomorrow kicks off the first of 4 Last Saturdays of Summer in Greenpoint! Pick up your passport for freebies and discounts in tons of participating businesses in Greenpoint. We are offering our organic tetrapaks of wine on ice at 20% off! Perfect for transporting to the music festival down the street…

TONIGHT’S WINE LIST:

TERRES DOREES 2009 BEAUJOLAIS BLANC JEAN-PAUL BRUN $17

“Totally unoaked Chardonnay from rockstar producer JP Brun, this could be called Bourgogne Blanc but Brun feels strongly about the terroir and therefore is proud to display a more humble appellation on his label. This is one of the best values in Chard that I’ve come across, and the fruit (lemon curd) is lush without being cloying, the acidity ample without being overwhelming. A study in balance.”

EDMUNDS ST. JOHN 2008 “BONE-JOLLY” GAMAY NOIR $19

I love Gamay. It’s a delicate, fruity grape that allows the terroir to shine through. There are few Beaujolais I dislike… I was skeptical when a Gamay from California was presented to me. I thought it would be a big, fat, fruit bomb. But luckily, Steve Edmunds is a winemaker with a gentle hand and made this wine with respect to the grape and the terroir (3500′ elevation in the Sierra Nevada foothills). This wine is the perfect candidate for the fridge. We have it stocked in ours… no need to drink white or rose this summer if you don’t want to. Cool down with a chilled red!

WINEMAKER’S TASTING NOTES: Bright purply-red. Pretty, exuberant nose of raspberry, mulberry, violets, and a touch of pepper, showing some depth. Fresh in the mouth, and bright with acidity, yet round and juicy, nice, light grippy tannins, and very good length. The kind of wine characterized in France as “alimentaire.”

TERRES DOREES FRV 100 DE JEAN-PAUL BRUN $21

“…a mouthful of pure unadulterated fruit delivered with a gentle, playful fizz. It reminded me of a bowl of summer berries. I had found the perfect vin de soif and I confess this bottle made me want to boogie. Jean Paul Brun first made his méthode ancestrale FRV 100 (say the name in French and it sounds like “Effervescent”) rosé in 2002 after taking a liking to Alain Renardat’s [of Domaine Renardat-Fâche] excellent Cerdon du Bugey. The still wine was fermented in tank and got its cherry-hue from the saignée method. Like the cerdon méthode ancestrale wines, FRV has residual sweetness because it was bottled before fermentation was complete. And here’s where it stands apart from traditional method sparkling – the second fermentation is spontaneous using only the lees from the first fermentation. And did I mention that it’s only 7.5% alc? I’m having this with breakfast…”

PLUS CHEESE!!!

COME TASTE 6-9 PM

while supplies last…

PAUMANOK VINEYARDS TASTING

Lily — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 18:01:29 +0000

PAUMANOK VINEYARDS IS HERE

FROM THE NORTH FORK OF LONG ISLAND!

I’m still seething from the USA match this morning and feeling quite patriotic…

so I am proud to be featuring wine from NEW YORK at tonight’s wine tasting.

(Starting July 1st, our weekly wine tastings will be held on THURSDAY nights.)

PAUMANOK VINEYARDS 2008 DRY RIESLING“Aromas of lime, green apple, lilies, lilac and other white flowers and a hint of ginger. Bone dry with flavors of lime, green apple, white apricot and intense acidity.” This wine is served by the glass at Dumont in Williamsburg. It’s a local wine and delicious paired with food or served as an aperitif in the garden while your food sizzles on the grill… $22

PAUMANOK 2009 ROSE

Rose is flying out of the fridge here at Dandy, and for good reason; it is Rose season! Paumanok’s Rose just arrived this week and it’s palest of pink colors shouldn’t deter you… it’s full of fresh berry fruit! The label features an image of the Long Island shore and it is as beautiful as the wine inside… $17PAUMANOK 2007 FESTIVAL RED

This wine is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. So basically, a Bordeaux blend. A beautiful example of a New York red… this wine should be enjoyed with some locally raised beef on the grill. Here’s my favorite burger recipe that would pair quite well with this wine: Heavily black peppered, grass-fed beef burger grilled just shy of medium-rare, topped with melted NYS extra sharp cheddar and blackened onions served on Dijon mustard-schmeared toasted black bread. Oh yeah, baby! … $19

We won’t have any of my famous ‘black burgers’ here tonight,

but we will have a table full of cheese and meat and SCRATCHbread!

WINE TASTING 6-9 AND IMPORTANT NEWS

Lily — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 17:46:02 +0000

NEWS FLASH:

3 WEEK NOTICE!!!

Starting July 1st, our weekly wine tastings will be held on

THURSDAYS from 6-9 PM, instead of Fridays.

There are many reasons for this change, but the main reason is to give better service to our customers on Friday evenings. It has come to our attention, that some shoppers aren’t getting the help they need due to the large crowds that the tastings attract.

We hope this won’t cause too much confusion or gripe…

instead, think of it as the weekend getting started a day earlier!

Everything else will remain exactly the same…

a great opportunity to taste wine, a table full of cheese, and of course good times.

We’d love to hear any comments or concerns you may have, feel free to drop us a note… dandelionwinenyc@gmail.com.

NOW FOR TONIGHT’S TASTING:

TENUTA CARRETA PIOBESI D’ALBA GAVI

A lush and perfectly lovely white wine from Piedmont… perfect for a summer breezy day. $18

TIBURZI GUSTAVO COLLE SCANCELLATO

80% Sangiovese and 20% Ciliegiolo. Richly textured and deeply colored with blackberry and cherry notes. Very smooth. And being from Umbria, this wine is a great value at $13

CANTINE FEDERICIANE MONTELEONE PENISOLA SORRENTINA GRAGNANO

Excerpt from New York Magazine July 12, 2009:

Italians, it turns out, aren’t big on vino with pizza. Beer, yes (Peroni, usually). Even Coke. There is one rather obscure exception: Gragnano, the frizzante red that comes from the town of the same name on the Sorrento Peninsula outside of Naples. Drunk young and served chilled, Gragnano has a touch of sweetness, a smoky finish, and a slight effervescence that cuts the fattiness of cheese and oil. David Orange, president of Brooklyn-based importer Wine Emporium, started bringing in Cantine Federiciane Monteleone Penisola Sorrentina Gragnano five years ago, and describes the blend as “inky, grape-y, and similar to Lambrusco, with smaller bubbles.” $17

COME TASTE!

FRIDAY NIGHT TASTING: COME CELEBRATE 2 YEARS WITH US!

Lily — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 18:36:24 +0000

DANDY TURNED 2 YESTERDAY!

So today we celebrate with a

SPARKLING WINE TASTING

and lots of extra treats!

(You should see the giant crate of bread SCRATCH dropped off today) and 14 dozen mini-cupcakes from KUMQUAT CUPCAKERY, and of course… CHEESE!

FRANCOIS MONTAND BRUT ROSE, FRANCE

A beautiful salmon pink color, this wine is bursting with flavor! This blended bubbly is made in the traditional Champagne method and is crisp and dry with a very clean finish. Aromas and flavors of dried cherries and raspberries. Unrivaled at this price! $13

CASTELLROIG CAVA BRUT, SPAIN

This Cava is fruity and fresh with lots of tiny bubbles. The perfect pair with tiny cupcakes! $16

CASTELLROIG CAVA BRUT NATURE RESERVA, SPAIN

This Cava is aged for about 3 years… the aging process produces even a finer bubble and aromas of fresh brioche. Very dry and elegant with an insanely long finish… in a blind tasting you’d think you were drinking Champagne! In fact, my fancy-wine friend selected this wine for his wedding last month. It’s that good. $24

Come sip on some bubbles and eat cake in our well air-conditioned shop tonight,
6-9 PM !

OTHER NEWS:

WE ARE NOW OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK @ NOON!

AND WE WILL HAVE A WEEKDAY HAPPY HOUR IN JUNE:

10% OFF 2+ BOTTLES

NOON – 2PM

MONDAY – THURSDAY

Lunch never tasted so good!

Wine at lunch never tasted so good!

Lily — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 04:19:57 +0000

WEEK DAY HAPPY HOUR IN JUNE

NOON-2PM

MONDAY – THURSDAY

10 PERCENT OFF

2+ BOTTLES

WINE AT LUNCH NEVER TASTED SO GOOD!