Looking for something fun and interesting to do? Taste wine and learn about life!

Tomorrow in the Melrose store, at 2pm - we're tasting out some wines that are perfect for this Summer weather that we're so fortunate to still be enjoying:

Saumur Rouge - 100% Cab Franc from the Loire that is a bit brighter and more minerally than it's big brother Chinon.

Abyme Savoie - Few white wines say summer better than this gem.

Henri Bourgeois Quincy - Love Sancerre, but don't want to pay the price?  Check this consistently beautiful wine from one of the leading producers out of the Loire.

Colterenzio Pinot Nero - Don't love some of the syrupy Pinots that come out of Italy?  Us too.  But this bottle from the Alto Adige region is a rock star.  And at a great price, too!

We always try to shake things up a bit in Melrose, and have twists with our tastings.  This time, we're featuring local Certified Life coach Jim McCoy -- he will be on hand to demystify any interpersonal issues from dating to job changes --  through informal chat and Q&A. (www.merlincoaching.com)

We've also got some tastings lined up for the Beacon Hill store, which I hope to post in the next day or so.  You won't want to miss them!

 And of course, Victorian Fair is approaching in Melrose shortly, so we're thinking of a fun tasting to line up.  Last year we did an acoustic music pairing - so if you have any fun ideas, pass them along! 

Until next time...

Think out of the box....

So, tomorrow is "Try Something New Tuesday"...
Pic Poul Blanc.  Roussane.  Monterey Pinot Noir.  Chilean Cabernet.  Muscadet.  Orvietto.  Barbera D'Alba.  Belgian Ale.  Dry Cider.  Russian Stout.  Chipotle Ale.  Pumpkin Beer.  Robiolo.  Gorgonzola Dolce.  Spicy Pickles.  Homemade Pizzeles.  Cave Aged Cheddar.  Vegan Pate.  Foie Gras.

....what are YOU going to try?

Its been a long time...but let's try again!

Sure it's been a while since we've added something to the blog.  Partly because I was incredibly busy - and partly because - well, no one seemed to be reading it.  But let's give it another try, shall we?

We've got lots cooking in the Melrose shop... this coming Saturday, July 28th at 1pm we have a Port & Chocolate tasting.  I may even throw a little Dutch Vintage Gouda in there just for funsies.  Come on by and sample some of the best boutique port on the market that is at a very affordable price! 

Did you know that every Saturday in the Melrose store we have a bottle of some type of wine open as well as different cheeses and food items?  Check here, on Facebook and Twitter for all the announcements every Saturday morning.

Speaking of food....we've added so many new and exciting food lines to the Melrose location:  Boston Burger Salsa, Big Papi Salsas, Gelato Fiasco Gelato, Boxford Granola, Papa's Pizelles, Number 9 Tortillas, Something Sweet without Wheat maccaroons and Woola's Gluten Free Pastries -- just to name a few.  Did I mention that every single one of those are local food producers?  That's right, from Concord to Revere - Lynnfield to Boxford, you can feel good about shopping local and shopping fresh!

What's happening in the Beacon Hill store....well, we've been going through some renovations due to some water damages we suffered, so thank you very much for your patronage and patience through all of it!  We're enjoying the summer to re-energize the store and get ready to keep the most rocking 400 sq. ft. of alcohol stocked to the gills for this upcoming fall.  Summer is busy in Boston, but nothing like when late August rolls around.

In case you're looking for something special at any time, Monday is ordering day for both locations!  So be sure to get your special requests in to us as soon as you can!  You can email or call and we're more than happy to try to get the items you're looking for.

So for now - this is a good way to get the ball rolling again.  As always - please feel free to ask us anything, we're more than happy to answer it for you.

Cheers!

Giving thanks....

From our family to yours...thank you for all the support you've given us not just this year, but in the past - and hopefully the future.

We wish you a day filled with love, laughter and most importantly - being surrounded with those who mean most to you.

May your glasses be full, and your dinners delicious.

Cheers!

The holiday season is upon us...

So, I have to admit - I've been horribly remiss on posting.   There has been many an event that I haven't had the time to add onto here, and for that I apologize.  So without further adieu, let's fix that problem, shall we?

In the Melrose store, we have lots of tastings coming this holiday - starting with this coming Saturday afternoon.  We're tasting out wine from 1-3, so if you're looking for some Thanksgiving suggestions, then come on by!  We're sampling a Carmenere Merlot, a NY Riesling, a Cote du Rhone and a Pinot Noir.   I promise I'll post our upcoming tastings in a schedule for everyone so you don't miss an opportunity to try something fun.

We also have new food items that we're excited about.  Good Tastes Macaroni & Cheese - a local foodie out of Newburyport who makes the most decadent mac & cheese you'll ever find in a freezer case.  If you're all about comfort food and cheese - then my God this is for you.

Dave's Cape Cod Smokehouse is out of Harwich, and if you love Wild Salmon Spread, Bluefish Pate, Codfish Cakes or Scallop Pie - you must come and try these.  We had Dave in for our Grand Tasting last week (again, I'm apologizing for not posting it on here....) and we sold through all of our stock.  We're freshly reloaded and ready for you to try them.

Wine....wonderful wine.  We're stocking up so that your Thanksgiving table options are exciting, delicious, innovative and most importantly - fun.  You want to be excited when you open a bottle and enjoy the flavors and nuances, and so we're trying to make sure that we've got everything from the simplest to the most complex of choices.  You have time to put in requests - but only until Monday morning.  After that, the orders will be done.

We're looking forward to celebrating with you this holiday season.....

Ole!

We're having a fabulous Spanish Fiesta this Saturday, from 2-5pm in our Melrose store - sponsored by Iberian Wines.  We're tasting 4-6 different wines, homemade Sangria, Marcona Almonds, Manchego Cheese & Sugared Tortas.

We're also raffling off TWO $50.00 gift certificates!!
You won't want to miss this.....

Check it out on Zvents & Boston.com: 
http://www.zvents.com/z/melrose-ma/saturday-spanish-fiesta--events--201948205

What's new, delicious and exciting....?

Coming no later than July 1 (at least that's what my rep tells me), the Melrose store is going to be graced with the presence of the Bialetti Moka 6 cup! With all the expensive espresso makers sold around the world, native Italians prefer espresso from stovetop espresso makers and more Italians use Bialetti for their stovetop Italian coffee. For an excellent cup of Italian coffee, the classic eight-side household coffeepot is considered a true Italian tradition.


Of course, you can't buy an espresso maker without espresso....so, we're also going to be adding to our culinary treats - Lavazza Espresso & Coffee!  Since the Moka is not only an espresso maker but a coffee maker, we decided to give you the option to indulge in some fine Italian coffee outside of just the expected Espresso.  By the way - coming soon is also a frother companion - and can be used with either warm or cold milk!  Hello Latte....

Also new this coning week is something I'm pretty excited about too - and also from Bialetti.  Their line of Aeternum saute pans in beautiful colors will be here - match a pan with some fantastic olive oil, a pasta & a bottle of wine - and wish someone a warm "welcome home" if they've just moved in.  Or for that new Mom who is struggling to get it all together - bring her a meal that you made in the pan and bring it to her house with the pan as a gift.  Trust me - she'll thank you for it!

And finally -- every week we add new wine & beer to our eclectic inventory.  New beer to watch for:  21st Amendment's Hell or High Watermelon and Live Free or Die IPA, as well as Notch Session Ale; Wolaver Wildflower Wheat is also making a return.  The Melrose store gets beer deliveries starting each Wednesday - so send me your request before then and I'll be happy to get your favorite brew on the shelf!

Wine is always changing - and there's always something good.  We've added a few new Organic wines to our rack, and of course 'tis the season for fabulously delicious wines that you can bring to a BBQ.  Don't think red is just for winter because trust me when I tell you that there are plenty of Zinfandels that aren't too heavy when you're hanging in the yard having a burger.

We've got lots of events coming this summer as well.  Look for a Spanish Fiesta Sampler - complete with Sangria - coming soon, as well as another Champagne & Cupcake Soiree.  We have an upcoming Chandon Sparkling tasting which will debut a new flavor on our shelves -- the Riche.  And we also are going to be a participant in North Shore Magazine's Wine Week at the end of the summer.  So be sure to stay tuned as the dates for all these fun events and more will be posted here, on Twitter - and our Face Book page.

Happy Summer!

Happy Father's Day, Happy End of School year, Happy Summer -- Happiness in general!

We have all that you need for your Father's Day gift giving needs!  Whether it's that perfect bottle of wine - or just a gift card, we're able to custom order the "hard to find" bottles or even that "every day" wine for you to make that special person smile.   Dads, Grads, Teachers, Coaches, Friends - we've got you covered.

By the way, did I mention the Boston store has Bacon vodka in stock?  (To me, it doesn't sound appealing unless it's in my Bloody Mary...)  We also have Pinnacle Whipped Cream Infused Vodka as well as Cake Batter Vodka for your sugary sweet summer drinks.  Skinny Girl Margarita mix is flying off the shelf - and if you haven't tried Pear Brillet de Brillet - it's a MUST. We recently had some after dinner at Red Rock Bistro, and it was a dessert in of itself.  If you think you don't like Cognac because it's not smooth enough - then you will love this.  And if it's a gift - the bottle is gorgeous; pears are inside the bottle.

New things coming to the Melrose store - hopefully in time for Father's Day -- are these great Bialetti Moka Espresso makers and Lavazza Espresso.  So affordable, and they make the perfect cup of coffee!  Also, if your favorite men enjoy cooking, also coming is Bialetti Aeternum Ceramic cookware.  Saute pans in the 10" size, available with - or without covers!

Beer Can Chicken Roasters, Hot Sauces, Chili Mixes....Gelato Fiasco Gelatos & Sorbettos, Truffle Oils, Imported EVOO, Brie Bakers, Oversized Peanut Butter Cups, SuperDad wine glasses - and so much more! 

So make sure you come by either Beacon Hill or Melrose for the perfect gift for someone you love - or maybe just the perfect gift for you!

We are CLOSED on Memorial Day....

Memorial Day is one of only 3 days a year that we aren't open....so plan accordingly and be sure to stock up for all of your long weekend festivities!

Most importantly, be sure to take the time to honor those who serve our country - past and present.  Always be appreciative and supportive to those who choose to fight and die for freedom, so that those who choose not to, don't have to.

Celebrate Mom: Cupcakes & Champagne!

Bring your Mom, Sister, Aunt, Daughter, Wife - any woman who's special in your life - and celebrate Mother's Day with Ruinart Champagne & home made cupcakes by Melrose's own VCVC Cupcakes!

We're giving out free mini cupcakes and sampling delicious champagne - as well as having boxes of full size cupcakes free to anyone who buys a bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blanc or Rose!

Saturday, May7th  1:00 - 3:00 pm
It will be a delicious day that you won't want to miss!

Happy Easter

From all of us, to all of you - have a happy & healthy Easter.

In case you're wondering - we ARE open on Easter.
Noon - 7 pm. for all of your entertaining needs.

Take me out to the ballpark....

So it's opening day at Fenway on Friday - and we're celebrating a night early with a Red Sox sampler!

Join us from 5:30pm until 7:30 this Thursday as we sample out the following:

Wachusett Green Monsta Ale & Boston Beer Works Fenway IPA
Big Papi Hot Sauces and Peach Mango Salsa
American Nut Peanuts

We even have a few bottles of Beckett Chardonn"KK"ay available.

Come on by and get ready to welcome the Boys of Summer back home.
Cheers!

Give back while you shop!

This Sunday, April 3rd we are having our 2d Annual Dana Farber Fundraiser Day.
In conjunction with Melrose Bootcamp, and on behalf of Joy Fay who's running the Marathon and raising funds for the renowned Cancer hospital -- we are donating 15% of our total sales for the day -- to Dana Farber!

For one day only, we are waving our half case and case discounts -- we want to raise as much money as possible -- so please, come shopping Sunday!

We will be having a wine tasting as well that afternoon from 2-5 featuring wines from Martignetti, and the varietals will be decided as we get closer to the time.

We are so fortunate to live in an area that features some of the most amazing hospitals in our own backyard -- so shop for you, and donate towards the lives of others.

Thank you...

What's going on these days.....

Got the Winter Blues? Taste the French Riveria & Italian Countryside....

This morning when I came in - it just felt like a duck kind of day.  And we have plenty for you to choose from!  We have whole Muscovy ducks, Magret Breast and Confit Legs.  Pair them with a fun Rhone or Burgundy wine and find yourself transported to France.  Not sure how to cook it?  It's easy, trust me.  And ask my friends at Food Network how to make it - you'll find some of the simplest and most delicious recipes, with minimal ingredients to use!

And what are your plans this weekend?  How about sampling a little bit of the Italian countryside...?

Saturday, from 3 - 6pm we're sampling out a Bolgheri & Vernaccia -- along with an assortment of Italian cheeses & roasted tomatoes.  Taleggio, Brenta, Grana Padano and Mozzarella.  Never heard of those types of wine?  Exactly the reason why we want you to come in and try them!

So leave this winter state of mind behind you - and transform your thoughts to a place romantic, a littler warmer - and delicious!

And the Oscar goes too....

It's a snowy Sunday for the Oscars.
Don't let that hold you back from watching the show with all sorts of goodies!

Pick up some steak tips or boar roast, get some French red wine into a glass - along with a plate of fresh cheeses & olives - and you've got yourself a party!  And don't forget the Edible Hibiscus for the bottom of your glass of sparkling wine!

We've got fresh bread, sausages & cured meats - even Death by Chocolate frozen custard pies to make this Academy Award Sunday feel extra special.

What will be in my glass tonight?
Bubbly...but of course.

G'day Mate....

Saturday, February 26th - join us for an Australian wine tasting!
A very pretty Chardonnay for Southeastern Australian, and an approachable easy drinking Shiraz.

All easy on the wallet!

3-6pm.

Before that, come by after 11am and sample some delicious cheese that would go beautifully with either of those wines.

Enjoy!

Pamper the one you love with simple, affordable decadence!

It's Valentine's weekend....the perfect time for you to play Cupid and spoil someone special to you.

No plans yet?  Come sample wine with us!
Friday, Feb 11th 5:30 - 7:30 - Valentine's Sampler, Pt 1.  We'll be pouring Jacob's Creek Moscato, Banyuls ( a MUST try dessert wine), Robert Mondavi Cabernet - and a brand new Pinot Noir from Francis Ford Coppola that is in a perfect price point for all.

Saturday, Feb 12th 4pm - 7pm - Valentine's Sampler, Pt 2.  Join us as we sample Trentadue Chocolate Amore, La Caplana Gavi di Gavi, and Emeri Sparkling Pink Moscato.

Sunday, Feb 13th 2p-4:30pm - Bubbles & Love.  We are having a Chandon Sparkling Wine sampler featuring the classic Brut, Blanc De Noir (my personal favorite) and the Rose. 

Speaking of affordable decadence....we have Caviar & Creme Fraiche, Crepe Mix, Chocolate Bacon Pancake Mix, Applewood smoked bacon and more for a romantic breakfast or brunch.

Making a romantic dinner?  We've got you covered with everything from Steak tips to Muscovy duck.

And of course - in the glass.  Classic champagne, big Zinfandels & Cabernets, Dessert wine and of course the ever classic Chardonnay.

Anything and everything you need for a perfect weekend.
Hope to see you!

"Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance." --- Benjamin Franklin

Today, I attended a Silver Oak & Twomey Tasting at The Market Restaurant in the W Hotel in Boston.

I have to say - the food was outstanding; the downside - it was uber petite.
UBER. (Code for I was still hungry.  But that's okay, it really tasted outstanding.)

That being said, the wines were of course phenomenal. Standouts for me were the Twomey Sav Blanc, and the Merlot. LOVED the Merlot, but I'm always sort of crushing on good Merlot anyway. I think if someone was to say "quick, what's your favorite varietal".... I'd have to say Merlot, with the caveat of it being that it has to be 1.)well made and 2.) not over oaked. I don't love feeling like I'm chewing on a tree; I much prefer the beautiful fruit.

Out of the two Silver Oaks (Alexander & Napa Valley), my preference was by far the Napa. Amazingly delicious and best of all - ready to drink. Silver Oak is one of those producers who prefers to sell table ready wine, so you don't have to question whether it's ready when you buy it or not -- no surprises. You've got to love it.

You're going to find the Twomey on our shelves in the next week - and of course, Silver Oak - is already there. 
Cheers!

Are you ready for some football....

Okay, so we've adjusted to the fact that the Patriots aren't playing tomorrow.
That doesn't mean we can't enjoy a day of good eating & drinking with friends!

Love to cook?  Well, the Melrose store has everything from whole Muscovy Ducks, to Duck breasts, Confit Legs (for Cassoulet), Venison, Boar - and good ol' fashioned steak tips, chicken breast, pork ribs & sausages.  Speaking of sausages -- there's Chorizo, Duck & Armanac, Chicken w. Truffles, Garlic & Sausage - and of course, a selection of italian sausages and pepperoni for snacking.

Need cheese?  From Sage & Derby, to Taleggio -- Cabot Clothbound to Manchego -- Stilton w Cranberry to Huntsman Layer, have we got cheese for you.  Have you tried our Gorgonzola Stuffed Olives?  To die for.... (and we have a full selection of "To Die for Dips" as well, now that I mention it!)

Making chili for the big game?  We've got you covered with Chili Mix, cold beer and a large selection of hot sauces to help "kick it up a notch",  Pretzel dipping sauces, chocolate sauces, and of course - Chilly Cow frozen custard pies for dessert.

Ice cold beer - ranging from Budweiser to Pretty Things, Abita Purple Haze to Frosty Knuckle Ale, Hop Stoopid to Ommegang, Amstel & Heineken to Sierra Nevada - and everything in between....

And of course, the wine..... no matter what you're serving, who you're hanging out with - we have something for the novice to the most discriminating palate!  Need recommendations?  We're happy to help...whether you're looking for an inexpensive Cabernet that delivers big - or an easy drinking white wine, we've got something to make everyone happy.

(Suggestions?  LeMire Tuscan Blend, Chocolate Box Shiraz, Pomelo Sauvignon Blanc, Vivacious Vicky, Ruffino Orvietto, Liberty School Cabernet, Red Truck Zinfandel Blend, Dom Brunet Pinot Noir, Casa Del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc, Norton Merlot...just to name a few!)

Chips, dips, crackers, cookies, chutneys, gourmet popcorn and always the beverages.
Let's get this party started, shall we....?