Don's Gillette's Weekly Wine Blog
Weekly musings from our store's resident wine guru
Don has over thirty years experience in the wine industry. For the last eighteen years his attention has been focused on the growing local industry. Don has a large following of customers who search out his opinions (never in short supply!) on new releases and on what's currently most distinctive on our shelves. Others seek his insights on wineries and trends that are still under the radar. Check back here each week for Don's latest thoughts on various wine-related topics. Read Don's full bio...
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Anniversary Party!
Don Gillette has been on vacation this week so I, Denise Johnson, am filling in on this week's blog. I thought I would tell you about Lewis Cellars 15th Anniversary Party held yesterday in their own backyard high atop Howell Mountain.
I clearly remember the day when Randy Lewis walked into our shop, explaining that his affiliation with Oakville Ranch had ended and that he had a new brand, Lewis Cellars.• Since that day in 1992, I am quite sure that NVWE has purchased every single bottling offered by this special winery, and I often joke with Randy "What will I do, what will I say, when you show us a wine that we don't want to buy?" It may never happen.
The party got underway at 2 pm on a hot and sunny day. After a glass of champagne and a variety of fresh oysters, I was able to enjoy a glass of the 2005 Barcaglia Lane Chardonnay, every bit as delicious as I recalled. I asked for seconds of the 1999 Lewis Reserve Chardonnay (poured from a 3 liter bottle)!• This eight year old beauty was rich, charming and still tasted youthful. Anyone lucky enough to have this wine in their cellar can rejoice and drink it now.
After a slew of five starr hors'deouvres provided by Yountville's Redd, a 3 liter bottle of 1994 Reserve Cab made an appearance. All I can say is, ooh la la! Just delicious and fully mature. Unfortunately, my husband and I had to leave the party a bit early and could not remain to see what other red wines were pulled from the cellar.
It occurred to me that the only Lewis wine on our shelves right now is the brilliant 2005 Sonoma Chardonnay ($44.95) SO I decided to dip deep into my resources and come up with the very last of the 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Not inexpensive at $124.95, it is the wine that I think Lewis Cellars does best and invite you to click here for our full tasting notes or to order!
Happy Anniversary Randy & Debbie!
