Some of you may have already noticed a new face at The Savory Grape, but we would like to officially introduce you to the shop's new Retail Manager Anne Sage. Ann brings a wealth of food and wine knowledge to The Savory Grape, having studied at the International Wine Center in NYC obtaining an advanced wine certificate, completing a Grand Diploma for cuisine and certificates for wine and pastry at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and London. She also has a Master’s degree in Hospitality Administration from Johnson & Wales University. Ann's in-depth knowledge of wine will make her transition to the shop smooth, allowing her, along with Jessica, to assist you with your selections.

The wine class, "Pair Essentials - Exploring the Art of Matching Food and Wine," on Monday, Dec. 4th is already filled. However we will hold another class of a different topic in January and February. So stay tuned for more details that could allow you to give this as the perfect holiday gift!

Although we have hinted at the approaching holidays, this week's article on the Thanksgiving staple, Beaujolais Nouveau, is a sure sign that the season of giving is fast approaching. The Savory Grape is happy to help simplify your holiday with elegant and enjoyable wine gifts and baskets as well as wine pairing suggestions for your holiday parties. Our monthly wine club is a gift that your loved one, colleague or boss will continue to enjoy months after the decorations are packed away. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Beaujolais Nouveau has famously reached drinkers by hot air balloon, camel, private courier, helicopter and rickshaw. The progression of Beaujolais Nouveau has become just as famous, if not more, as the wine itself due to a 1985 government decision to release the new Beaujolais at the same time on the same day each year, creating a much loved international tradition. While much of the fun of Beaujolais Nouveau lies with the traditional release, other Beaujolais wines are loved for their quality.

The French region of Beaujolais falls within Burgundy but, soil, varietals and techniques all result in very different wines from the usual Burgundian selections. Beaujolais begins just south of Macon and extends to the outskirt of Lyon. Any commune within this area can use the AOC Beaujolais while Beaujolais- Villages is restricted to the hill vineyards of the north. Beaujolais, which is the Gamay grape varietal, varies most dramatically from Burgundy and other wine regions in that producers ferment the grapes whole and unpressed. The grapes are then crushed by their own weight within the vats. Traditionally, wine ferments slowly in vats for several months and is cask aged throughout the following spring and summer. But with Beaujolais Nouveau, the process is much more rapid to achieve the early release date, within two short months from harvest. The resulting wine is light and juicy, which makes it a great holiday selection when one is trying to purchase wine for large groups of people with wide ranging tastes.

In earlier centuries, the new, early autumn release of Beaujolais Nouveau was a quaint custom enjoyed by locals. However, the tradition began to gain popularity in the early 1900s as word spread. In the 1950s, the French government assigned November 15th as the Nouveau release date. However, with the popularity and celebration surrounding each year's release, marketers recognized a greater opportunity. In 1985, the "powers that be" changed the release to the third Thursday in November.

As mentioned, Beaujolais Nouveau has a journey as a little-known local custom to an internationally anticipated spectacle. The world has seen other wine garner this much attention only to fall out of fashion, not because they are any less worthy but because the public moves onto the next trend that is later viewed as outdated. The tremendous marketing push of Beaujolais Nouveau has made it the most visible of the many wines produced in the region. However, Beaujolais produces other fabulous and unique wines that often far surpass the better known Nouveau.

Some may scoff at the Beaujolais Nouveau release and resulting craze. However, this November as stores and restaurants throughout the world anticipate the Nouveau arrival, we encourage you to pick up a bottle and enjoy this international tradition.

2005 Elyse Vineyards Rose - $13.49. Elegance defines this rose...and perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. It is made from a blend of numerous grapes, such as Carígnane, Mourvedre, and Syrah, just to name a few, which are typically seen in France's Southern Rhone region. This particular dry Rose has aromas of raspberries and strawberries with a refreshing and crisp acidity. Those who have experienced Elyse wines immediately know their finesse and style!

2003 Stone Creek Cabernet Sauvignon - $10.99. This value Cabernet Sauvignon from California's Central Coast, which encompasses the growing region from San Francisco south to Santa Barbara, is one our newest favorites. The wine exudes classic flavors of blackberry, dark cherry, and dark chocolate that lead through to the finish. The mouthfeel is silky, thus leaving you with a smooth taste. You can drink this wine now or place it in your cellar for the next 18 months.

2005 Alamos Cabernet Sauvignon - $9.99. Alamos is not a new producer to us but its Cabernet Sauvignon is, and with pleasure we introduce it to you. From the famed Nicholas Catena Zapata vineyards, this Cabernet has ripe forward fruit with soft tannins (remember tannins can give you that mouth drying effect) that make it highly approachable. This is a perfect pair for rich beef dishes or chili (both vegetarian and meat chili).

Domaine Maratray Dubreuil, Chorey les Beaune, Burgundy - $24.99. From France's renowned Cote d'Or, this is a fine Pinot Noir that has been harvested entirely by hand without mechanical introduction. It's medium bodied with rich, balanced red fruit flavors that are silky smooth. As you allow air to intermingle with the wine, its aromas and flavors open even more so. Treat your friend or special someone to this wine!

Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto, Toscana - $44.49. Guidalberto was a pioneer of modern agriculture in the Bolgheri area in the 1800s. In addition to his many land reclamation projects, Guidalberto was known for his experiments in the winegrowing sector, which were already state of the art for his time. This premiere Italian red is comprised of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese and has been aged in French and American oak barrels for 14 months, which makes vanilla notes detectable among the lush, black berry fruit flavors. We suggest savoring this with a hearty Italian meal and with special company.

Friday, Nov. 3 (5 pm - 8 pm):

Woop Woop Shiraz 2005, Australia: In Australia, Woop Woop means "remote." Ben Riggs, the winemaker, has gone outside the normal territory to source the fruit for this well-balanced Shiraz. Shiraz is Australia's most popular grape varietal grown, and this wine's hints of plum and cherries balanced with spice from American oak barrels provide for a smooth and exciting experience on the palate. We love this wine with a saucy BBQ, rich and meaty stews as well as creamy sauces (surprised?). Although it is ready for immediate consumption, it's also suitable for aging, showing layers of complexity with time. ($11.49)

Amazin Zinfandel 2004, Napa, CA: Amazin Zinfandel resides in California's renowned Napa Valley. Warm, sunny days and cool evenings are spectacular climate conditions for this varietal. This Zinfandel combines beautiful cherry and raspberry notes with anise and black pepper spice in balance to round out the finish. Gently handled in the winery to preserve its natural flavors, this wine will pair easily with a wide variety of foods, ranging from Roasted Duck, to a juicy, marinated Rib Eye Steak. This wine also is perfect with fall soups and stews. ($12.99)

Saturday, Nov. 4 (5 pm - 8 pm):

Parducci Pinot Noir, Mendocino, CA: The Parducci family has been growing grapes in Mendocino County since 1921, and the family's wines reflect its Tuscan heritage in style, taste and winemaking. The focus on sustainable and organic farming makes this winery that much more special and socially responsible. Black cherry, rich plum with a touch of clove inspire the nose and palate. This is a nice compliment to Baked Ham, Chicken Piccata and lighter pasta dishes. A great Pinot for the price! ($9.99)

Benziger Chardonnay, Carneros, CA: Through its sustainable farming, organic and biodynamic growing practices, Benziger Vineyards is producing quality wines. After hand harvesting and whole cluster pressing the wine was aged in oak barrels, which gives it definite oak aromas and tastes. The wine has aromas of peach, pear, pineapple and a light toastiness on the nose that is matched on the palate! Great with corn chowder, macaroni and cheese, and crab cakes in a lobster sauce. ($11.99)

email: jessica@thesavorygrape.com

phone: 401.886.9463

web: http://www.thesavorygrape.com