Almost the end of the summer...!

So it's been quite some time since I've posted here -- it's amazing how quickly time goes by without realizing.

The store in Melrose is coming along nicely; it was a little scary the last few weeks because it felt like it was never going to come together, but now..... it does. I can't wait to get in there and sharing all the fabulous wine and of course - my passion for food and cheese with the rest of the world.

Today I met with my primary cheese distributor and all I can say is "oh. my."

For wine recommendations, I can tell you to try something different and fun for what might be our last burst of warm weather this summer: Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc.

If you love champagne (or sparkling wine) and Sauvignon Blanc - then how could you not love the two mixed together? Sort of a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup of the wine world? Okay, maybe I wouldn't go quite that far, because I'd say the effervesence takes away a bit of the herbaceousness that a typical SB would have -- but on a hot summer night, it's definitely decadence in a glass.

Happy 4th of July!

Boston is brimming with excitement this weekend, and hopefully Mother Nature will cooperate with all of us who are having a "staycation" in town to watch the extravaganza -- as well as those who have travelled to the best place in the world to celebrate the 4th of July.


We have icy cold beer available, as well as an abundance of fantastic wine and spirits ready for all of your festive celebrations this weekend. Gene has been busy loading the store up for you so that all that you could want and/or need is available.

Playing bartender, or want to add a little color to your glasses this weekend?
Feeling festive?

Try these fun red, white & blue cocktail recipes -- and let us know what you think!
*******


Red Fizz
Makes 2 servings

Ingredients:
1 cup passion fruit vodka
1 cup cranberry juice
Champagne
Fresh cranberries

Directions:
Shake vodka and cranberry juice together with ice until chilled. Strain mixture into a champagne glass about 3/4 of the way full. Top with a splash of Champagne and a few berries.
****
Red, White & Blue

1/2 oz. Framboise
1/2 oz. Half-Half
1/2 oz. Blue Curacao

Build in a pony tall shot glass. Beginning with the Framboise, layer each successive ingredient on top using the back of a spoon

2006 Chateau de Cazeneuve Pic Saint Loup

So, the official tasting notes are: "Deeply-coloured , with an intensly savoury nose with dominant aromas of roasted meat, dried herbs and crushed peppercorns. The palate is elegant, yet sufficiently rich, with a smooth fruity (cassis and blackberries) mouthfeel and flinty tannins. Excellent on its own or for pairing with red-sauce Italian dishes. "

I have to say, I agree. It's a very easy drinking, fruity and not overly big bodied Languedoc wine. If you enjoy Chateneuf du Pape, this is a lighter but similar style.

We had it tonight with a relatively over cooked steak (oops, it happens sometimes) and a spring penne, which is just tossed with olive oil, garlic, green onions and blueberries. The wine worked -- and truly, was fabulous by itself.

This will not disappoint!

A work in progress....

I'm thinking of starting a separate blog for the buildout of the new Melrose shop. That will be coming soon... You'll be able to link to that blog from here, and of course from our regular website which will host both stores' individual presences.

The process is a new one for us. We bought the Beacon Hill location as an existing business -- this time, we're going from the ground up and so there's much new territory to cover and things to learn. Construction alone, though minor is the biggest part of the deal, next to the administrative "stuff". Then, probably refrigeration - and after that, racking and inventory.

Stay tuned, and come along for the ride....

Finally..... it's official!

As many of you know, we have been looking for the last two years to find the right location to open a second instance of our store -- one that is larger, and more expansive, to offer cheeses and gourmet foods and services -- to truly be an entertainment shop.

We have officially been awarded a liquor license in the once previously community of Melrose. The downtown area of Melrose is very similar to Beacon Hill; not only is it a walking neighborhood, it is a lovely mix of residential homes and small businesses -- and the businesses are the unique "Mom & Pop" small businesses that carry the same type of charm and personal involvement into the community as we like to do.

The building we will be in is beautiful -- truly a labor of love by the owner who painstakingly refurbished this corner building into being brand new, yet true to the charm and antique feel of the downtown area. We are going to be located on the corner of Main & Essex - just as we are on the corner of Charles & Mt. Vernon in Boston. I think I can comfortably and truthfully say that we are fortunate to be situated on two of the best possible locations in each area.

Finding the perfect spot has been challenging, but well worth the reward -- we hope that Melrose will be as happy to have us, as we are to join them.

Beacon Hill Wine & Gourmet is proud to be looking forward to calling Melrose home.

More details to follow.

Cheers!

Update on second location....

Last night was the public hearing regarding the competitive process for the liquor license in Melrose.

It is very difficult to gauge what the determining factors are for the board to make a decision. I am a little biased of course, regarding our business model and presentation. But we just don't know; and we will have to wait until the 28th of May when the continuance of the hearing takes place.

But we will keep you posted -- and if you live, work or play in the Melrose area -- please feel free to show your support for Beacon Hill Wine & Gourmet.

Turkey & Unoaked Chardonnay....

This morning, before we started our day - I knew I had to use the remainder of the turkey I had roasted Friday night. And what's one of the quickest ways to utilize turkey leftovers? Use it to make soup!

So, I put the soup together and slow simmered it for a few hours, so that when we wanted it for an early dinner tonight, all I'd need to do is pick a wine to enjoy with it.

I selected Lioco, a Sonoma County Chardonnay. I often refer to Sonoma as Napa's "softer" sister; wine from Sonoma is typically less "oaky" - and this particular one is entirely unoaked, which means it's steel casked.

It tastes fabulous - a little bit of residual sugar on the finish like you might expect from a Reisling, but it's got a fabulous honey-like flavor that you would expect from a Chardonnay from this area, that hasn't been oak aged. And no acidity -- which, while I personally love acidity in my Sauvignon Blancs, I don't care for it so much in my unoaked Chards.

And the pairing with the soup...was nothing short of spectacular.
If you're looking for an Unoaked Chardonnay that will pick you a bit -- give this one a try.

It's official....

As many of you know - we have been actively pursuing the opportunity to open a second location for some time now. To find the right location takes time and patience. We'd been close a time or two, but we believe timing is everything -- and the location we'd always hoped would become available, finally has.


We are officially in the competition for a wine & beer license in the previously dry community of Melrose.


We will be going before the board on May 12th, to discuss our business concept and hopefully have the community be as excited about having us be a part of their neighborhood - as much as we're excited to be hopefully joining them. Downtown Melrose is very similar to Beacon Hill in many aspects, as it's a beautiful walking neighborhood - mixed with residential homes and lovely small businesses.

This particular location will be larger than our Beacon Hill store -- and will also be offering cheeses, gourmet appetizers, menu planning and a variety of other services that our Boston customers will be able to capitalize on as well. We're hoping to not only embrace the community of Melrose - but also be able to offer our existing customers items and services that we aren't able to do now, that fully encapsulate all entertaining needs.

These are exciting times.....stay tuned!

What to drink tonight...?

Okay, so tonight I'm making plain old steak -- not on the grill or in the broiler - but grilled on the stove. I love making it that way, it's a great way to keep the meat flavorful and tender if cooked properly. Anyway - pairing it with some baby spinach sauteed with garlic and tomatoes and some brown rice with butter and rosemary -- so we thought pairing it with the following would be fantastic : The 2005 La Nerthe Chateauneuf du Pape.

Given 90 points on the Parker scale, it's a perfect pairing for our dinner. Lots of flavor with cassis, black cherries, smoke, roasted herbs, and licorice.

It is soft, round, full-bodied, opulent, and accessible, which is somewhat out of character for this virile/masculine and tannic vintage.

And...we have it in stock if you want to try it too!

Great gift giving ideas!

Christmas is quickly rushing upon us!
Still not sure what to get for the wine enthusiast in your life?
Let me make some suggestions as to a few "cherry" items we have in stock!

1986 Grange
1990 Mouton Rothschild
1992 Caymus Special Selection
2003 Silver Oak Napa
Cristal
.....and a small but excellent selection of 1997 & 1999 Barolos.

This is just a small sampling -- we have ample to choose from and in a variety of prices!

Call for specific pricing!

Gift wrapping is available....as well as beautifully handmade wine gift bags.

If you're in need of delivery, please call early!
Our schedule is filling up very quickly, even for the immediate downtown Boston area.

Happy Shopping!

Thanksgiving is upon us...

I can't tell you how many phone calls I've received this morning asking for recommendations on what to buy for the holiday dinner. And that -- is a great thing.

The best advice I can give you is to have fun with whatever your drinking; and the most important thing to keep in mind, is not buy a wine that will overpower what you are eating. Basically, that means if Turkey is on the menu (as it most generally is!), than you want to avoid big and heavy red wines, or exceptionally dry and/or heavy white ones.

If your holiday turkey menu features sweet side dishes such as glazed carrots or marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes, you could choose a white wine with similar sweetness, such as a chenin blanc or gewurztraminer. If your menu items are savory, you can lean toward a Johannisberg riesling, savignon blanc, or even a light, fruity chardonnay. If your bird boasts a spicy sausage stuffing, sip a Beaujolais (Nouveau is the rage for today) or lightly chilled pinot noir. (Though I personally do not care for my red wine chilled, at all.)

Think out of the box a bit... don't be afraid to play. A great pairing for Turkey is champagne. You can feel decadent and fancy while drinking a deliciously light and fruity one; Rose champagne is a perfect compliment -- and looks pretty in the glass, for those who are into aesthetics, right down down to the bubbles.

If you don't want to break the bank with the champagne, then I'd wholly suggest buying it's Italian cousin: Prosecco. Light, fruity and inexpensive - Prosecco will dress up any meal and it's very food friendly.

I mentioned a Johannisburg Riesling, but if you want to be a red wine drinker and stray from the traditional Pinot & Beaujolais - then I'd recommend a South African Merlot or Cabernet (avoid a Shiraz blend -- too spicy!). South African wine is bright, fruit forward and not so heavy that it would detract from the food you are eating.

If you're in town today -- please don't hesitate to stop in and ask for assistance with your holiday gift giving or meal pairing selections. Gene is there all day and night -- and will be more than happy to assist you. He's worked very hard to ensure that we have an outstanding inventory that is able to please even the most discriminating wine enthusiast.

From our family to yours....have a lovely holiday.

Looking to try something new?

Have you given South Africa a try yet?

Relatively still "new kids" on the wine block (at least in the minds of consumers) -- South Africa has quickly become the hottest trend in wine since Australia.

Pinotage is their signature grape -- and it's one of those varietals that to know it -- is to love it. I personally love a good Pinotage, however I do think it's something that there is no middle ground on; either you like Pinotage or you don't. It's one of the most interesting and different styles I've had and the best way I can describe it for you, is that if you have a good glass of it -- it will dance on your tongue.

But if you aren't feeling adventurous enough to take the chance, then feel free to stick to their traditional styles of wine. Inexpensive and delicious, South African wines are great for those who don't care for dry, or Old World style of wine. The varietals tend to be very bright, vibrant and fruit forward - without too much tannic aftertaste or acidity.

My personal favorites are from the Graham Beck vineyard, and the two I'll share with you are these: the Chenin Blanc is really nicely balanced with a ton of tropical fruits and crispness; and the Shiraz/Cabernet blend is absolutely delicious. The best part of that one is that it's casked in both steel and oak, so there's this great fruity taste with warm tones of chocolate and the spice you'd expect from a Shiraz.

So if you have the opportunity, give South Africa a swirl. You won't be disappointed.
Let us know what you think!

We're on Facebook!

If you have a Facebook account, and would like to participate in our online discussion board - log in and search the groups for "Beacon Hill Wine & Spirits".

Join in on the fun!

Getting married? Buying a new home? Engaged?

We're offering an opportunity for you to register and post your champagne, wine and spirits selections for your friends and family to be able to see... and purchase for you!

What's the best thing about registering for your wine rack? Duplicates are always a pleasant surprise, and something you're counting on!

That special day is coming up...whether it's your wedding, your anniversary -- or the housewarming party for your new home. Often you register your wish list at stores that sell dishes and glassware -- why not register your wine rack as well?

Email, or call to make an appointment for recommendations if you are in need of assistance with your selections. We'll then post your names, your photos (if you wish) the date of your event -- and your selections on line for your guests to review. Registering your wine selections is a unique way to start stocking your wine rack or bar!

For more information, or if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call or email.

More cheese, please!

I don't know about you - but I love cheese.
Love, love, LOVE cheese.
As a matter of fact, next to peanut butter -- cheese is an addiction of mine.

That is partly the reason why when we open a second location -- we will have cheese incorporated as a staple. It will not only feed my obsession -- but it complements wine so perfectly.

We all have our favorites -- just as with wine; but also like wine, the more we sample the more we enjoy - the longer our list of "favorites" becomes. My "favorite" cheese is the Parrano Rubosto; a Dutch cheese that is a cousin to Gouda, but who tastes like an outstanding Parmigiano Reggiano.

White wines hardly ever clash with cheese, whether they are mild or strong - soft or firm. Dry whites pair well with soft textured cheeses, espedially those with mild flavors such as Brie. Whites with a crisp acidity go well with acidic goat cheeses. For an experiment, try pairing a softer Chardonnay from Sonoma with cheeses such as a triple cream Brie, Brunet, Valencay or Hoch Ybrig.

Red wines tend to match best with firm mellow cheeses. Although hard cow's milk cheeses do well with red wines as well. Try sampling a typical California style Cabernet Sauvignon with a variety of cheese such as a Dry Jack, Marisa, Manchego -- or my favorite, the Parrano.

Next time...what to pair with Ports and Sweet Wine.

Jack O'Lantern, Jack O'Lantern....

Looking for something fun for the adults to drink for Halloween?
While pumpkin flavored wines are more often than not found at small fruit vineyards outside of MA -- have no fear, there's pumpkin flavored beer!


Pumpkin ales are perfect for Halloween and the autumn season in general.
Pumpkinhead by Shipyard is a great brand to try.


If you want to try something creative - make your own cauldron of Witch's Brew!

Place your "cauldron" into something deep, such as a planters barrel that you can paint black -- add some dry ice underneath and serve up a potion that's sure to make everyone feel as if you've cast a spell upon them!

Ingredients:
3 packages Lime Kool-Aid
1 bottle Vodka
1 bottle Fruit juice (any)
20-25 pieces Fruit, mixed
1 gal Sherbet (any flavor)

Mix all ingredients(in any order) in a large tub, which can hold several gallons. Stir so that the Sherbert is completely dissolved. With the exception of the kool-aid and sherbert, as much or little of the other ingredients may be used.

With all the flavored vodkas on the market today -- the possibilities for this Witches Brew are endless!!

Lots of love for Louis Jadot....

Although I can honestly say that I'm not personally a huge fan of Pinot Noir, this is a really decent one. I love just about anything from Louis Jadot anyway - just about everything is so easy to drink.

I had this with dinner last week, and I paired it with a filet that I had pan seared with a hoisin based sauce that wasn't too sweet so as to take away from the fruit of the wine. We enjoyed it.

Louis Jadot 2005 Bourgogne Pinot Noir has a red cherry fruit and a touch of earth on the nose and palate. It is nicely balanced with a hint of acidity and smooth tannins; It's not the most exciting or complex Burgundy, but it's really well balanced and good example of an solid red Burgundy at a very affordable price!

Have fun while watching the football game....

Listen, football doesn't have to be all about beer and pretzels.
Having a group over to watch the Patriots game?

Try offering your guests something different, even for only just the first quarter...

All-American Cocktail
(We like to call it "The Patriots Mixer".)
Serves 1

1 1/2 ounces Stoli Razberi
1 1/2 ounces Stoli Vanilla
2 ounces simple syrup
1/4 ounce grenadine
1/2 ounce Blue Curacao

In one shaker, blend Stoli Razberi, simple syrup, grenadine and ice.
In a second shaker, blend Stoli Vanilla, one third of the simple syrup and ice.
In third shaker, blend Blue Curacao, one third of the simple syrup and ice.

In a glass, place the red mixture, the white mixture and finally the blue mixture.
Garnish with a miniature Patirots swizzle stick. (Not required!)

(The vodkas listed are brand suggestions; feel free to use any brand of flavored vodka you enjoy - though we don't recommend downgrading the vodka brand, as it will impact the flavor of your drink.)

Spooky...trendy....and fun!

So we went to the Gift Show to order Halloween decorations for our small window display:
(This isn't a great shot of it, but hey - it was only his cell phone that took the video!)



We always have a nice display for the holiday season, both winter and summer; but Gene has really been wanting to do a Halloween display. Everyone loves the displays we do - most especially the kids - and who doesn't love Halloween? So we went to the Gift Complex to order from the distributor who supplies our window display items. We had fun picking out the haunted pieces and creative lighting that will illuminate the front of the shop...

And, I popped into the distributor who sells alot of the glasses, and other items that we will be offering in both locations soon. Now that was a lot of fun. Fun and funky handpainted glasses, beautiful classic styles....fantastic books about wine and cheese, great linens -- and so much more.

All of the products that will be sold in our second location - will be available in the Beacon Hill location as well. It will just take some creativity to display them due to the lack of space in Boston - but we'll figure it out.

Imagine, you'll be able to pop in - order a case of wine and some delicious artisan cheese to go with it if you choose. Maybe a couple of fun wine glasses to surprise your significant other...some great music -- the possibilities are endless...

House Favorite - Perfect for Fall!

One of the things we really try to specialize in is providing decent wines in a variety of inexpensive price ranges. Sure, you can spend a fortune on wine - but if you don't have to break the bank when looking for something to have with dinner - why would you?

Dom Brunet Pinot Noir is an easy drinking, and not overly complex Pinot Noir. At $11.99 we can't keep it in stock! Is it the best Pinot on the market? No - but it's not meant to be. Is it probably one of the best Pinots you'd find at this price break -- absolutely.

From the French region of Languedoc, this is has potential to be a Pinot lovers inexpensive favorite. With cherry and raspberry spiced notes, this is a surprisingly good value that is food friendly. Pairs nicely with chicken dishes -- or try with a pan seared tuna.