Just a small amount left...Sunday, November 30, 2008
Great 95 point Italian
Just a small amount left...Nils Oscar Brewery -- Sweden

The brewery was founded in Stockholm 1996 as Kungsholmens Kvartersbryggeri i Kungsholmen, Stockholm but changed name to Tärnö Bryggeri rather quickly. During 2006 major relocations were conducted and the company got it's current name.
Nils Oscar Brewery is considered one of the top breweries in Sweden and constantly receives good reviews from national beer critics. Nils Oscar beers have been awarded several gold medals at Stockholm Beer Festival during the last years." -- wikipedia.com
Saturday, November 29, 2008
More gift packs...
Friday, November 28, 2008
Southern Tier new releases...
Update
Forsyth -- 12 bottles left of Krampus, sold out of Choklat
Rock Hill -- 6 bottles of each left
Provisions -- 4 bottles of each left
Ballwin -- 2 bottles of each left
(as of 12/2/08 - 9am)
Choklat -- Sweet milk chocolate, not bitter at all, similar to the Sam Adams Chocolate Bock. Pour this one over your ice cream or make a shake.
Krampus -- quite delicious, hoppy and spicy. It goes down easy without a hint of alcohol.
Right now they are intro priced until we can change them in the computer. (All So Tier seasonals have the same UPC, so it scans at the previous price)
So Tier Krampus Imperial Helles Lager...$5.99 / 22oz

"are you naughty or nice? St. Nicholas, aka Santa Claus, is a magical figure, the bringer of gifts and an icon of holiday spirit. Forgotten by most is his evil side kick and enforcer of ‘the list’. European tradition says while St. Nick is busy delivering presents to good little boys and girls, Krampus hands out punishments to the bad. A fanged, goat-horned bully, the Christmas Devil uses sticks and chains to beat the naughty children. Dark malts and aromatic hops create the diabolical spirit of this brew. It is finished with lager yeast and aged cold for no less than 30 days. This Imperial Helles Lager will warm even the darkest hearts.
This season, replace the cookies with a bottle of Krampus. If he happens to pay a visit, toast to him with this devilish brew. Merry Kramp-mas to all, and to all a good pint!" -- brewery
9.0% abv. • 20º plato • Imperial Helles Lager • 22 oz
So Tier Choklat Stout...$7.49 / 22oz
Imperial Chocolate Stout
"The ancients called it 'food for the gods'. The Popol Vuh, the sacred book of the Maya, unfolds a complex web of mystery around a beverage known as xocoatl (ch-co-atle). At Southern Tier, we’re not surprised that hieroglyphs of the ancient Maya depict chocolate being poured for rulers and gods. Even through the many voyages of Columbus, the mystical bean remained nothing more than a str
ange currency of the native peoples.Moving through centuries, the circular journey of cacao has been realized in our brewing house, encompassing the complexity of the darkest, bitter-sweet candy together with the original frothy cold beverage of the ancient Maya to bring to you our Blackwater Series Choklat Stout. We have combined the finest ingredients to tempt your senses & renew the power & interrelation of history in every bottle.11.0% abv • 195º L • Imperial Chocolate Stout • 22 oz / 1/6 keg2-row barley / caramel 60 malt / barley flakes / chocolate malt / bittersweet Belgian chocolate / kettle hops: chinook & willamette" -- Brewery
.
Also try these in stock now from Southern Tier.
Hoppe Imperial Extra Pale...$5.99 / 22oz
Big Red Imperial Red...$5.99 / 22oz
UnEarthly Imperial IPA...$5.99 / 22oz
Tripel Belgian Style...$5.99 / 22oz
Oat Imperial Oatmeal Stout...$7.49 / 22oz
Cuvee Series 1 - Oak Aged...$11.99 / 22oz
read more about So Tier
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Know your styles -- Dubbel
What should you be smelling?
What should you be seeing?
What should you be tasting?
How should you be drinking it?
click here to read about the Dubbel on STL Hops
Here are a few Dubbels we have in stock now...
Westmalle Dubbel
St. Bernardus Pater 6
La Trappe Dubbel
Grimbergen Double
Chimay Premiere (Red)
St. Feuillien Brune
New Belgium Abbey Belgian Style Ale
Ommegang Abbey Ale
Maredsous 8
Achel Bruin 8
't Smisje Dubbel
De Glazen Toren Cuvee Angelique
De Molen Donder & Bliksem
Gift Baskets!
Budweiser Vintage Crate
Budweiser Case includes 24 / 12oz bottles
in a vintage style wood crate...$35.99
Another great gift for the beer lover in your life:
Budweiser Vintage Wood Crate. This is a new product from Anheuser Busch, it includes a case of 12 oz bottles of Budweiser in a vintage style wood crate. Quite impressive looking.
We only have a limited amount of this gift set.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Kwak Gift Set
Kwak Gift set with Glass and Stand
4 bottles of Kwak plus the glass and wood stand.
$27.99 for the set --->

"According to tourist guides, there are over 1000 types of Belgian beer. Quite a few of these Belgian beers have their own unique glass. The most distinctive of glasses is the Kwak vessel. This 25 centimetre glass tube with a flared top and a round, bulbous bottom is held by a wooden clamp. In fact, this glass would tip over if you tried to set it down on a table!
According to the Kwak website: “In Napoleon’s time, Pauwel Kwak was a brewer and the owner of the De Hoorn inn (near Brussels). Mail coaches stopped there every day, but at that time coachmen were not allowed to leave their coach and horses,” “As a result, the inventive innkeeper had a special Kwak glass blown that could be hung on the coach. In this way, the coachman had his Kwak beer safely at hand.”
Ordering Kwak for the first time is a great experience. It comes to your table complete with a monogrammed wooden stand. The long neck and round base makes a nice rich, frothy head. You can recognize a Kwak glass from across a crowded bar.
Once you get over the novelty of the glass, Kwak is a very fine Belgian beer. The color is a deep amber, with a creamy colored head. Kwak has a mellow, fruity and malty aroma with very little hops smell. There are some hints of fruit in the taste and aroma such as creamy bannana and liquorice." --www.bestbelgianbeers.com
Top 100 Wines of the year are here...
#10 Wine of the Year from The Wine Spectator 2008
Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma County 2007
93 points
"The Seghesio family has been making wine for a century in northern Sonoma County and farms more than 400 acres of Zinfandel in Alexander and Dry Creek valleys. They make a range of vineyard-designated Zinfandels, such as Home Ranch and Cortina, and a bottling from the oldest vines. But for this Sonoma County 2007, winemaker Ted Seghesio tapped his diverse grape sources for a more widely available, well-priced wine. Aged 11 months in 75 percent American oak, it's complex, with a supple texture and a spicy finish." -- Wine Spectator
2007 Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel...$20.99

"A seductive and vigorous Zinfandel, with smoky black cherry and blueberry aromas and youthful wild berry, sage and cracked pepper flavors that have a lingering finish and zesty tannins. Drink now through 2012. 68,000 cases made. –TF"
Rated 93/100 The Wine Spectator
Alvear Solera 1927 Pedro Ximenez 375ml...$21.99
"The impressive 1927 Pedro Ximenez Solera, from a Solera begun nearly 80 years ago, boasts a dark amber color as well as an extraordinary nose of creme brulee, liquefied nuts, marmalade, and maple syrup. Huge and viscous, yet neither cloyingly sweet nor heavy, it is a profound effort priced unbelievably low. It is meant to be drunk alone at the end of a meal."
Rated 96/100 The Wine Advocate
2006 Yann Chave Crozes Hermitage Le Rouvre...$31.99

"Sweet and ripe, with lots of mocha, dark licorice, plum sauce and fruitcake flavors backed by a fine-grained structure and a long, mineral-tinged finish. Shows nice weight for the appellation. Drink now through 2011. 150 cases imported. –JM"
Rated 92/100 The Wine Spectator
2006 Yann Chave Crozes Hermitage Classique...$28.99
"Really ripe and pure, with a great beam of blackberry and currant fruit layered with iron, dark toast and violet notes. Long, silky finish. Drink now through 2011. 200 cases imported. –JM"
Rated 91/100 The Wine Spectator
2005 Domaine St. Damien Gigondas Les Souteyrades...$27.99
"Really exotic and alluring, with incense and warm fig cake aromas that then meld into warm bittersweet chocolate ganache, blackberry confiture, graphite and Turkish coffee notes. Fine-grained and long on the finish. Drink now through 2012. 400 cases imported. –JM"
Rated 92/100 The Wine Spectator
Monday, November 24, 2008
Beer new releases...
"Behold the stunning crimson hues through the inky blackness. Inhale the noble Hallertau hops, spicy and floral. Savor the flavors redolent of English toffee, rich mocha, sweet molasses, candied currants and a hint of anise. We highly recommend cellaring additional bottles, as the Czar will continue to mature and become denser and more complex with age." -- Brewery
Hook Norton Twelve Days...$4.59 / pint
Darker and hoppier than the brewery's regular bock, this robust, flavorful bock was brewed especially for the holiday season. This is a brand-new offering from Mahr's that sold out in two hours at the brewery. In the words of Stephan Michel, the brewer, “Dude. It’s killer.” Only a few hundred cases were produced for the USA, so get it while you can." -- importer
1 bottle each of
Blanche de Chambly
Ephemere Apple
Chambly Noire
and
Raftman Amber Ale brewed with Whisky Malt
(Only available in this pack)

It is brewed to commemorate the legendary courage of the forest workers These hard working men knew when to settle their differences and share their joie de vivre with a beer and a whisky." -- brewery
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Great CDP...
2006 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape Rouge
Pre-Arrival Price.....$59.99 / bottle
(no additional case discount)
"Deep red. Raspberry, kirsch and cured meat aromas are complicated by garrigue and hot stones. Nicely focused red fruit flavors possess impressive sweetness and very good depth, finishing with excellent sweetness and length. Note that "La Crau" is always stated on the label and that this is the only cuvee labeled as Vieux Telegraphe. 92-94 points"
Rated 92-94/100
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
(2005 vintage was #5 wine of the year by The Wine Spectator)
To reserve yours, call 314-727-8788
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Thanksgiving Day wine ideas...
Thanksgiving Day is November 27th
Beaujolais Nouveau Day is November 20th
Turkey day wines....
Kevin in Ballwin suggests...
Angoves Nine Vines Viognier (white).....$10.99
Bright melon aromas, along with rich, crisp pineapple and peach flavors.
Boniface Apremont (white)....$14.99
A light, crisp, dry white from the French Alps. Apples with a touch of honeysuckle.
Caneros Creek Pinot Noir Reserve (red)....$19.99
A classic California wine. Raspberry and strawberry nose as well as in the taste.
Thorn Clarke Terra Barossa Cuvee (red)....$13.99
A Blend of Shiraz, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvginon and Cabernet Franc. Supple, round currants and spice with a long savory finish.
Chris in Rock Hill suggests...
Sinskey Abraxas (white)...$26.99
A blend of Alsace varietals from Los Carnernos. A floral wine with zippy acidity. My fav!
Boniface Rousette (white)...$19.99
Apremont's big bro. Ripe pineapple and apricot, a thirst-quencher. Turkey's best friend.
Pierre Chermette Beaujolais (red)...$15.99
New to the store! Great buy from Peter Weygandt!
Alfredo Roca Pinot Noir (red)...$11.99
A real find from Argentina. Rich, velvety, a bargain hunter's dream come true!
Clos du Caillou VV Cotes du Rhone (red)...$22.99
Drinks like Chateauneuf du Pape at half the price!!
Paul at Forsyth suggests...
Lancyre Roussanne (white)...$14.99
One of our favorite finds this year. This wine has no oak and good earthy flavors that you do not get in Chardonnay. It has the perfect flavor profile for Turkey, stuffing and all the fixings.
Segries Cotes du Rhone (red)...$11.99
This Segries Cotes du Rhone has good fruit and spice to match with the holiday feast. It is a perfect match with Turkey.
Shotfire Shiraz (red)...$21.99
I am a big fan of Shiraz with Thanksgiving. There are so many different flavors going on---sweet, tart, salty, and earthy. You need a wine with good fruit and richness to handle it all. Shotfire is up for the challenge. This will be my wine this year. I am the lucky family member, I never have to cook a dish--I am always in charge of bringing the wine.
Want beer with your meal...
Oktoberfest style beers go very well with the roasted bird.
I think I might try the Achel Trappist Extra Ale this year, I think a good Belgian ale will match well.
With your pumpkin pie you might want to try one of the spiced winter ales we just got in stock. Try a Lindemans Lambic (Cherry or Raspberry) if you have cheesecake or a chocolate dessert.
Marc at Provisions Market suggests...
Terlano Terlaner (white)...$17.99
A blend of Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc from Italy's Alto Adige Region. Lots of apple and honey with good acidity. A rich and unique wine for the holidays.
Knyphausen Baron K Riesling (white)...$12.99
A slightly sweet rielsing with ripe fruit and lots of minerals. Great balance make this a Thanksgiving Day favorite.
Pierre Chermette Beaujolais (red)...$15.99
Fresh raspberry and cranberry with a refreshingly tart finish. Classic red for Thanksgiving.
Coto de Hayas Tinto (red)...$7.99
This blend from Spain, composed mainly of grenache, shows a bunch of cherry and jam. Stainless steal fermentation gives this wine a bright finish. A great holiday value.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Ommegang Gift and 2008 Schlafly...
1 bottle Three Philosophers 2008 ($6.99)
1 bottle of Chocolate Indulgence ($10.99)

1 bottle of Hennepin...($5.69)
(all 750ml bottles)
1 tulip glass
(** Bargain-- product total = $23.67 if you buy them separately, plus you get the FREE Glass)
2008 just arrived at Rock Hill and Forsyth!
2008 Schlafly
Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout...$9.99 / 750ml
"A roasty, rich and malty Imperial Stout with a strong dose of caramel, oak, and Bourbon character. This is a perfect beer to pair with hearty, cold-weather dishes, smoked meats, and virtually any dessert (especially chocolate)." -- brewery
Schlafly Bourbon Barrel Imperial Stout
Side by side tasting of the 2007 and 2008.
It was an interesting comparison tasting the 2007 version next to the 2008. Customer comments leaned towards the 2007, but some thought the 2008 was much better. To me, the 2007 had a much bigger nose of Bourbon. It had a touch of caramel, coffee, and chocolate on the palate. The 2008 showed much less Bourbon and more alcohol. It also had a more pronounced coffee/mocha flavor. The 2007 to me was much maltier and sweeter than the 2008. I think the 2008 was very good, but I would forget about for awhile and let it all come together like the 2007. -- Paul
2005 Bordeaux
Now in stock, call 314-727-8788 for availability.
Just updated at Forsyth!
(RP = Robert Parker, WS = Wine Spectator, ST = Stephen Tanzer)
Chateau Palmer Margaux...$329.99....97 WA, 95 WS
Alter Ego de Palmer....$74.99...90 RP, 92 WS, 87-90 ST
Chateau Beausejour Becot.........$99.99......94 RP, 92 WS, 92 ST
Chateau Lucia.....................$64.99...95/100 WA
Franc Mayne...................$47.99...91/100 WA, 91/100 WA
Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge..............$109.99...95 WA, 93 WS
Pape Clement...................$199.99...98 WA, 96 WS
Chateau Beychevelle....................$64.99......90 RP, 89 WS, 90 ST
Chateau Cantenac Brown ............$52.99......87 RP, 91 WS, 88 ST
Chateau Chasse Spleen............$34.99......88 RP, 90 WS, 85-88 ST
Chateau Cheval Blanc...........$1,099.99......96 RP, 97 WS, 96 ST
Chateau Cos d'Estournel..............$269.99......98 RP, 98 WS, 96 ST
Chateau d'Issan........................$79.99......95 RP, 92 WS, 89 ST
Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou...$249.99......97 RP, 95 WS, 94 ST
Chateau Faugeres Cuvee Peby.....$149.99......95 RP, 94 WS, 92 ST
Chateau Figeac St. Emilion..........$149.99......90 RP, 95 WS, 92 ST
Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste........$109.99......95 RP, 93 WS, 93 ST
Chateau Haut Bailly....................$119.99......95 RP, 95 WS, 92 ST
Chateau La Gaffeliere..................$99.99......96 RP,93 WS,91 ST
Chateau Labegorce Zede.............$37.99......87-89 RP, 88-91 ST
Chateau Lafon Rochet .................$54.99......90 RP, 90 WS, 91 ST
Chateau Larrivet Haut Brion.......$39.99......90 RP, 88 WS
Chateau Le Dome.................$269.99......96 RP, 93 WS, 92 ST
Chateau Leoville Barton..............$149.99......94 RP, 96 WS, 94 ST
Chateau Margaux 1st Growth...$1299.99......98 RP, 100 WS, 98 ST
Chateau Marquis d'Alesme.............$39.99.......91 WS
Chateau Montrose St. Estephe.....$159.99......95 RP, 94 WS, 93 ST
Chateau Pavie...................$499.99......98 RP, 100 WS, 96 ST
Chateau Pichon Baron Pauillac......$179.99......94 RP, 94 WS, 94 ST
Chateau Rieussec Sauternes............$99.99......96 RP, 96 WS
Chateau Sociando Mallet .............$59.99......91 RP, 88 WS, 92 ST
Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes 375ml...$54.99......93 RP, 92-94 ST
Chateau Talbot.................................$64.99......90 RP, 92 WS
Clos du Marquis (Las Cases 2nd).....$84.99......91 RP, 93 WS, 90 ST
Le Asteries St. Emilion......................$154.99......95 RP, 92 WS
Single Malt Scotch Class/Tasting!

1990 Tormore, Speyside, 17yr....$53.99
1990 Macallan, Speyside 14 yr....$74.99
NV Edradour, S. Highland 10yr....$49.99
1996 Clynelish, N. Highland 11 yr....$46.99
1997 Jura, Island 10yr....$51.99
1986 Highland Park, Island 22 yr....$148.99
2001 Laphroaig, Islay 7 yr....$51.99
Thursday, November 20, 2008
NOUVEAU!!
Thursday November 20th, 2008.
No more until next year...sold out!
2008 Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau is here!
2008 Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau Villages is here!
2008 Mommessin Nouveau is here!
Some new beers....
Shipyard Prelude Special Ale
Anchor Christmas Ale Magnums
Ommegang Gift Set with a glass
Rogue Santa's Private Reserve
Boulevard Nutcracker Ale
O'Dells Isolation Ale
Greisedieck Pilsner
Blue Moon Full Moon Winter
Samuel Adams Winter Classics
Includes 2 bottles each of Old Fezziwig Ale, Cream Stout, Holiday Porter, Cranberry Lambic, Boston Lager, and Winter Lager
Plus we received more Sam Adams Chocolate Bock and O'Fallon Bourbon Aged Smoked Porter.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Chocolate Indulgence, Left Hand Warrior...

In stock now at Forsyth!
(we are opening a bottle now if you are in the area for a taste. 11/18 - 1pm)
"The vibrant aromatics and flavors that are derived from the use of exuberant amounts of fresh flower hops are what helps create and set apart his most unique beer. While the addition of locally grown hops form the brewery's own hop farm contributes to the bright floral hoppiness, the majority of the hop volume comes from Warrior hops that are overnighted from Yakima, WA. Yet true to the brewery's fundamental belief system, the strong hop character is balanced by a strong malt foundation, allowing for an approachable, drinkable IPA that finishes amazingly clean. Get it while it lasts!" -- Left Hand
In stock now at Forsyth...
Ommegang Chocolate Indulgence...$10.99 / 750ml
10th Anniversary

"The success of the 2007 Anniversary beer encouraged us to brew Chocolate Indulgence again in 2008. As of the end of October, 2008 the recent batch of Indulgence is now beginning to make its way to your local retailer. Since the 2007 10th Anniversary Edition, our brewstaff and Department of All Things New and Delicious have been conducting strenuous research and exhaustive experiments to improve the character of the Chocolate Indulgence. We were happy with 2007's version, but, we tend to never sleep when it comes to fine-tuning the flavor and character of our beers. We feel that this year's batch has been honed to sublime levels of chocolatey / malty / decadent goodness. We hope you agree. For a little background, the story behind the beer: On October 13, 2007, at out Brewery Tenth Anniversary Party (Waffles and Puppets) we introduced Ommegang Chocolate Indulgence Stout to the world. Chocolate Indulgence comes with a thick tan head of foam resting on top of the rich onyx-colored liquid. The aroma immediately speaks of dark chocolate and dark malts. The gentle herbal nose of Perle hops compliments the darker notes, making the beer savory to the senses.The taste continues with the intense Belgian dark chocolate gliding across the tongue; starting sweet up front but giving way to rich cocoa flavors at the back. Through it all, a subtle fruitiness from our special Belgian yeast gives the beer brightness otherwise foreign to a beer style normally associated with gray foggy skies. Lingering chocolate entices the drinker to taste more. Go ahead. Dessert is good for the soul."
Ommegang Brewery
Should be arriving on 11/19/08 now -- sorry
Forsyth, Rock Hill and Provisions.
2008 Anchor Christmas Ale 6pks
"The brewers of Anchor Steam® Beer are proud to announce the release of our thirty-fourth annual Christmas Ale.
Every year since 1975 the brewers at Anchor have brewed a distinctive and unique Christmas Ale, which is available from early November to mid-January. The Ale’s recipe is different every year—as is the tree on the label—but the intent with which we offer it remains the same: joy and celebration of the newness of life. Since ancient times, trees have symbolized the winter solstice when the earth, with its seasons, appears born anew. Each year our Christmas Ale gets a unique label and a unique recipe for the Ale itself. Although our recipes must remain a secret, many enthusiasts save a few bottles from year to year—stored in a cool dark place—to taste later and compare with other vintages." -- brewery
check out all the old labels
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Craft beer from Norway and Brazil!!

This beer is great for drinking as the weather gets colder!
"Our 100th batch, brewed for the enjoyment of the brewers, but popular demand forced us to release it commercially. This malty, yet light bodied ale has a massive hop bitterness. Most enjoyable in a comfortable chair in front of a roaring fire.
Recommended serving temperature 61°F
Ingredients: Maris Otter, wheat, and chocolate malt; Columbus, Chinook, and Centennial hops; English ale yeast, and our local Grimstad water." -- Nogne-O
80 IBU, 10% ALC/VOL
Rated A- on www.beeradvocate.com
Great new beers from BRAZIL!
"Unhappy with the mass market beers available in Brazil, Juliano Mendes and his family decided to build a craft brewery and hire a German Brewmaster, a graduate of Weihenstephan, to brew a special lineup of beers, from German-style Weizenbier to special Belgian-style ales. The name 'Eisenbahn,' which means 'railway,' was chosen because another brewery with the same name existed in Blumenau in 1909,
but was not strong enough to fight against the commercial actions of the big breweries, ultimately shutting down a few years later. The new Eisenbahn was born in July of 2002, and hopes to continue as an anchor of the emerging South American craft beer scene for many years to come, always faithful to pure and traditional beers." -- importerEisenbahn Defumada Smoked Lager...$2.49 / 12oz
"Eisenbahn's Defumada, like the famous smoked lagers of Bamberg,Germany, is brewed with a special, smoked barley malt, giving it arich, smoky flavor and aroma." - importer
Thursday, November 13, 2008
The new O'Fallon bourbon aged...
Sam Adams Chocolate Bock

Provisions -- in stock
Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock...$13.99
"Samuel Adams® partnered Felchlin, a renowned Swiss chocolatier, to develop a unique innovation, Samuel Adams® Chocolate Bock. We started with a complex selection of carefully roasted malts combined with hand-selected Noble hops from Bavaria, the world’s oldest growing area. After using a centuries old brewing process, called Krausening, we slowly aged the beer on a bed of rare dark cocoa nibs from Felchlin®, a renowned Swiss chocolatier. Known for their quality these wild cocoa nibs, harvested from the rainforest of Northern Bolivia, impart complex aromas and flavors of chocolate, honey and vanilla in the beer. The resulting beer, Samuel Adams® Chocolate Bock, has a big, malty character that is combined with the subtle sweetness of chocolate, giving this brew a complex full-body taste with a velvety finish.
Tettnang-Tettnanger and Spalt hops were hand-selected from the world’s oldest growing area and combined with a complex selection of malts including two-row Pale, Munich and Caramel to create a rich and satisfying brew. This dark beer has a big, malty character that is combined with the subtle sweetness of chocolate. Samuel Adams® Chocolate Bock was aged on a bed of cocoa nibs to create its unique layers of flavor. As the beer matured, the fruity, tart, earthy and chocolate aromas were released into the liquid to give the brew a complex, full -bodied taste with a velvety finish. A hint of vanilla was added to meld the symphony of flavors together." -- brewery
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Excitement in the wine department...
2005 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet...$79.99

"The trial blend of the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve also looks to be sensational. It could turn out better than the 2004. Contrary to some of the reports I have heard that production is enormous, there are only around 10,000 cases of the Private Reserve, and 200-250 cases of each single vineyard component. The 2005 Private Reserve reveals a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of blackberries, crushed rocks, and spring flowers. It possesses a more Bordeaux-like structure than the more opulent 2004, but there is no shortage of depth, richness, glycerin, or power. The vintage's freshness and vibrancy are well presented in this beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon. It should hit its prime by 2012-2013, and last until 2025+."
Rated 94-96/100 The Wine Advocate
Arvid and Far Niente
Far Niente "The Collection" by Thomas Arvid...$1499.99
Very limited - Box #265 of 500 made
Each painting is signed and numbered.
My pictures do not do justice to this amazing box. Come in to Forsyth and take a look at the box. It is a pine briefcase with the art of Thomas Arvid on canvas inside the box with six bottles of Far Niente Cabernet.
"Far Niente has partnered with renowned artist Thomas Arvid to present the “The Collection” Collectors Case, featuring a giclée of Arvid’s work of the same name as well as a unique serigraph, accompanied by a vertical of Far Niente Cave Collection Cabernet Sauvignon vintages 2003, 2004 and 2005. Limited-edition Collectors Case, of which only 500 were produced. The custom-made, hand-finished pine
order online now
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Great ratings and values!

"Polished, round and expressive. A gorgeous mouthful of ripe blackberry, plum, cherry and exotic spices, with hints of leather and brown sugar nibbling at the edge. The finish rolls on and on against superfine tannins. Drink now through 2016. 5,000 cases imported. –HS"
2006 Croix Senaillet, Mâcon-Davayé...$15.99

This is our best buy in White Burgundy. It is un-oaked Chardonnay and it is delicious.
"Produced from 5 different parcels of vines planted on clay and limestone based soils.Careful vinification. Minimal intervention in the vinification process. Modern equipment (pneumatic press, thermo-regulated tanks). Each parcel is harvested at full maturity. Destemming, slow press, slow fermentation, malolactic fermentation, aging on the lees. Unoaked Chardonnay. Fresh and fruity wine. White fruit and floral aromas. Fresh, strong and rich in the mouth. Honey, acacia and peach flavors. Excellent as an aperitif and pairs well with grilled fish and Asian food." -- importer
2006 Four Vines Zinfandel "Biker"...$21.99
"Pedal-to-the-metal Zinfandel, with wild berry and toasty licorice aromas and full-bodied, ripe and exotic huckleberry, peppered beef and loam flavors that build toward a tight, rustic finish. Best from 2010 through 2014. 3,500 cases made. —T.F."
Rated 92/100 The Wine Spectator
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The latest from Great Divide to hit STL...

Great Divide Hades Belgian-Style Strong Golden...$8.19 / 6pk
"Hades is a Belgian-style strong golden ale brewed with a rare Belgian yeast strain that gives the beer a distinctive spicy flavor and aroma. Noticeable hops and medium malt character make it an extremely well-balanced, crisp ale.
Alcohol by Volume: 7.3%" -- Brewery
Accolades and other buzz on Hades:
Top 25 Beers, Best of BeerAdvocate.com , 2007
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Suau White Bordeaux!

One of our favorite white Bordeaux wines...
I don't know if it is worth 95 points, but it is very delicious and well worth a 90+ score. It is a great bargain!!
2006 Chateau Suau White Bordeaux...$14.99
"Made from 55% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Semillon, 10% Muscadelle; aged sur-lie for three months; a beautiful, traditional white Bordeaux with perfect fruit/acid balance and great length."- Beverage Dynamics (March/April 08), 95 pts , 5 stars
Rated 95/100 The Beverage DynamicsTuesday, November 4, 2008
Anderson Valley Brewing - in stock now
We will feature Anderson Valley this Friday night for our weekly tasting...(11/7) more details on Thursday.
ANDERSON VALLEY BREWING

"We carefully craft our world-class ales using only the finest ingredients; premium malted and roasted grains, hops, yeast, and pristine Boonville water straight from our own unique aquifer, and we never heat pasteurize or sterile filter our beers. Our tradition of carefully crafting inspired, flavorful, ales of the highest caliber has earned numerous awards, a loyal following, and our two-time placement among the World Beer Championships® Top Ten Breweries of the Year. "
-- Anderson Valley
BARNEY FLATS OATMEAL STOUT...$11.99 / 6pk
BARNEY FLATS OATMEAL STOUT...$3.99 / 22oz

"With its deep, dark brown-black color, thick, full-bodied, velvety-smooth mouth feel, mocha character, and, strong yet subtle hop bite, Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout is one of the thickest, richest, and most complex stouts on the market today. In 1990, it became our first gold medal winner, at the Great American Beer Festival. Barney Flats was judged so superior to the other stouts that no other medals were even awarded in its catagory. Try it and see why Stewart Kallen described it as, "Slippery, creamy, dark, and sweet as a Pacific May morning," in his book, The 50 Greatest Beers in the World "
-- Anderson Valley
BOONT AMBER...$11.99 / 6pk

"Boont Amber Ale just won the Silver Medal at the 2003 Great American Beer Festival , in the American-Style Amber/Red Ale category, has several other medals , as well, and was named the "best beer brewed in Northern California," by the San Francisco Bay Guardian.
Boont Amber Ale is a medium bodied pale ale with a beatiful copper color, a robust head, and the rich flavor of caramel malt. This very smooth and exceptionally drinkable beer is excellent with steaks, chicken, pasta, and other flavorful meals.
As with all of our products, Boont Amber Ale is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized, and should be stored in refrigeration. However, to fully enjoy its rich and complex flavor, it should be served between 40° and 45°F
5.8 % Alcohol by Volume
"It's bahl hornin'."
-- Anderson Valley
BOONT ESB EXTRA SPECIAL BEER....$11.99 / 6pk

"Boont ESB (formerly Belk's ESB) Exceptionally Great; something special -- Celebrator Beer News Blind Tasting Panel - Oct. / Nov 2004
The abundant hopping in this four-time gold medal winner, creates arousing aromatics, accompanied by a pleasantly bitter bite. Boont Extra Special Beer is deep gold in color, with a spicy hop aroma. Starts with a big, malty backbone and finishes with a refreshingly bitter bite. Boont Extra Special Beer is excellent alone or as an accompaniment to your favorite well-seasoned meals (such as Mexican, Korean, Chinese, Indian, or Thai, cuisine).
Boont ESB was recently named the Regional Champion in the 2003 US Beer Tasting Championships, in the Bitter/ESB category, has won two Gold Medals at the Great American Beer Festival, and has several other medals, as well. Click the blue ribbon to see the entire list.
As with all of our products, Boont ESB is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized, and should be stored in refrigeration. However, to fully enjoy its rich and complex flavor, it should be served between 40° and 45°F
6.8 % Alcohol by Volume
"It's aplenty bahl steinber horn."
-- Anderson Valley
HOP OTTIN IPA INDIA PALE...$11.99/ 6pk

Hop Ottin' IPA is as hoppy as they come. The name means "hard working hops," in Boontling, and that tells it all. Generous additions of high-alpha Pacific Northwest hops added during a vigorous boil, plus traditional dry hopping, with whole hop cones, give this ale a delicious citrus aroma, and an intense hoppy bite. This IPA is a hop lover's dream.
Hop Ottin' IPA most recently received a Silver Medal from the 2001 World Beer Championships, in the India Pale Ale category, and has several other medal as well. Click the blue ribbon to see the entire list.
As with all of our products, Hop Ottin' IPA is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized, and should be stored in refrigeration. However, to fully enjoy its rich and complex flavor, it should be served between 40° and 45°F
7.0 % Alcohol by Volume
"Hop Ottin' bites like a can-kicky bluetail."
-- Anderson Valley
POLEEKO GOLD PALE...$11.99 / 6pk

"When the phrase "California Style Ale" is used, Poleeko Gold Pale Ale is the one that comes to mind. The golden color and generous use of Pacific Northwest hops establish a distinct style, separate from any domestic or European beers. Our honey-gold pale ale is crisp and clear, with an unusual lightness and dryness for such a full-flavored ale. The arousing abundance of hops adds both a floral bouquet and a lively, citrusy finish. It is excellent alone, or with full-flavored meals and spicy dishes.
Poleeko Gold Pale Ale recently was named the Regional Champion in the 2003 US Beer Tasting Championships Summer Competition, in the Golden Ale/Kolsch category, and has several other medals, as well. Click the blue ribbon to see the entire list.
As with all of our products, Poleeko Gold Pale Ale is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized, and should be stored in refrigeration. However, to fully enjoy its rich and complex flavor, it should be served between 40° and 45°F
5.5 % Alcohol by Volume
"Rudy nebs, heelch hops, and malted barley make Poleeko Gold plenty bahl with any gorms."
-- Anderson Valley
WINTER SOLSTICE SEASONAL ALE...$11.99 / 6pk

This fine holiday brew was awarded Gold Medals in 1997 and 1998 by the World Beer Championships , and was named their 1998 World Champion Winter Ale .
From the first sip of Winter Solstice Seasonal Ale , your senses will be aroused with the vision of a glowing fire, warming the hearth and home, as gently drifting snow flakes silently blanket the trees outside. Each lingering sip will gently warm your soul with thoughts of family and friends, gathering around the table for the feast. Luscious, creamy, smooth, and warming, this medium bodied ale is brewed with Caramel and crystal malts to give it just a hint of sweetness, then paired with our private blend of holiday spice. Winter Solstice Ale is great alone or as an accompaniment to any meal, and it has been known to liven and spice up nearly any social event. This coveted and much sought-after brew is released in November, just in time for the holidays, and by the first of the New Year will be only a fond memory.
As with all of our products, Winter Solstice Seasonal Ale is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized, and should be stored in refrigeration. However, to fully enjoy its rich and complex flavor, it should be served between 40° and 45°F
6.9 % Alcohol by Volume"
-- Anderson Valley
Monday, November 3, 2008
Beer, beer, and more beer
De Proef Kertsmutske Christmas Nightcap...$13.99 / 750ml
Blaugies Moneuse Special Winter Ale...$11.99 / 750ml

"A very festive and hardy holiday ‘saison’ home-made at Belgium’s smallest family brewery. Extra rich for the holiday season, at 8% alcohol by volume. Rated 8’s and 9’s (out of 10) by the authors of The Beers of Wallonia. As the label says, really just a richer version of La Moneuse, using a little caramelized malt and maybe more hops. The malt flavor of the Special is a little darker, roastier, and certainly sweeter, which must somehow distract attention a bit from the earthiness which is so notable in La Moneuse. The Beers of Wallonia authors opine that the Special Winter offers more "character" than the regular La Moneuse, but we don’t entirely agree. The beers share a lot of the same characteristics, but in different proportions. Like La Moneuse, the Winter is rather fizzy." - importer
Exciting holiday beers....
From one of my favorite brewers...
Ingredients: Maris Otter, Munich, caramel, and chocolate malt; Columbus and Cascade hops; 5 different spices, English ale yeast, and our local Grimstad water." -- brewery















