A German octopus with impressive psychic abilities (at least when it comes to anticipating winners and losers in World Cup 2010) has predicted Spain will be victorious at Sunday’s final match against the Netherlands. This is the first time the team has ever qualified for the finals.  And it’s clear why they have done so — the youthful team plays with an obvious passion that is beautiful to watch. For oenophiles, Spanish wines too are attracting more attention and fans this year as wine producers possess devotion, passion and skill, much like the popularized España strikers David Villa, Carles Puyol or Xavi.

Lucky for me, I recently visited Spain and got to experience some of its great wine stars first hand, such as Perfum De Vi Blanc from producer Raventos i Blanc and winemaker Pepe Raventos.  As we approached the vineyard, a striking circular courtyard surrounded a majestic 500-year-old oak tree, unfortunately toppled by a recent storm.  Considered a winery icon, this tree has witnessed the changes and growth in the Raventos operation since 1497—18 generations of winemakers who have worked the 90 hectares of historic vineyard that lie about 30 minutes west of Barcelona in the Catalunya region.  The clean, contemporary architecture with its mix of large skylights and modern arches hints at the family’s keen interest in tapping modern technology to protect the land through biodynamic viticulture to produce truly remarkable wines.  The Raventos are probably best known for their sparkling cavas, but it was this 50/50 blend of Muscat and Macabeo grapes that “wow-ed” me during our tastings.

Macabeo, also known as Viura, is a hearty grape that is often blended into cavas and has become popular in France’s Roussillon area. The grape produces mildly acidic and young white wines that are light, lively, refreshing and perfect for early use as evidenced in this 2009 Perfum.  The grape, however, that puts the “perfume” in the Perfum is clearly the Muscat, which is known for its distinctive floral aroma. (Interesting fact: Muscat grapes have been found to carry large concentrations of flavonoid antioxidants, even at the same level as red wines, which is good for the heart when drunk in moderation, of course.)

The final result of these two grapes is a blend that, as I have said before, is like no other. Initially, it has a hypnotic floral nose, followed by the fresh and lively florality in taste.  There are hints of melon, pear and citrus that make it a perfect match to a hot summer day.  It has a good balance between the mouth-filling character of the Muscat and the freshness of Macabeo. I challenge you to stop at one glass.  I think it’s impossible.

So with a forecast here in Hinsdale of nearly 90-degree weather Sunday for the World Cup finals, it seems like the perfect time to make sure you have some Perfum chilling in preparation.  Whether the octopus is right or wrong, whether he’s a fan of Spanish wines or not, whether you are indifferent to soccer games or octopus, this is a wine that is just perfect for any hot summer day.

winemaking. However, that is exactly the case at Matetic Vineyards, which is often singled out as one of Chile’s best winemakers, especially when it comes to its Pinot Noir.  Soft, loping alpacas weed the grounds there, and grape skins, cow manure and grass make for the compost that is later used to nurture vines.  This is a far cry from the 1600s when the Spanish brought Chile its first grape vines while staking claim to this wonderful country.  Later, they would try to limit Chile’s wine production, but to no avail.

Considered a New World star, Matetic in particular continues to garner attention and acclaim for its breathtaking wines.  Located in San Antonio Valley, the Croatian Matetic family only started making wine here in 1999, but have a history farming the Chilean land that dates back 100 years.  They are clearly in touch with the land that makes their fine wines, and lucky Hinsdale Inspired Wine Club members get a virtual trip there in June with two of the winemaker’s extraordinary top-line EQ wines – two varietals definitely not traditionally associated with Chile.

EQ Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Twenty years ago, Chile was known only for its reds, but in the unique climate of San Antonio Valley, Sauvignon Blanc has found a very comfortable home.  Cool temps and reddish clay soil that contains decomposed granite and quartz lend a unique minerality to this Sauvignon Blanc.  The nose of delicate tropical fruits and distinct lemon blossoms are a wonderful entry to this light-colored wine. To the palate, it provides a complex experience of minerality and a gentle balance of acidity and soft sweetness of fruity flavors.  Winemaker serving suggestions: oily fishes, ceviche, sea urchins, oysters or sheep cheeses.

EQ Pinot Noir 2006

Matetic Pinot Noir is considered to be among the very best pinot noirs coming out of Chile.  Wine critics, despite generally thinking of Chile as cabernet country, have questioned whether Pinot Noir and Syrah might be its true destiny, recognizing San Antonio Valley as seemingly perfect terroir for this grape and Matetic as a leader.  The 2006 presents as an elegant deep ruby red, calling forth gentle aromas of strawberry jam, plum and even a hint of anise.  The texture is soft and elegant, the acidity well-balanced, and the finish long and beautiful. Winemaker serving suggestions: fish, goat cheese, cured ham, lean red meat, pasta.

So to help celebrate the segue of spring into summer and wonderful American traditions, the Inspired Wine Club brings two all-American California wines – a beautiful red for those steaks or other hearty fare you will inevitably bring to your grill and a summery white that pairs well with fish fresh from the market or shrimp on the “Barby.”

2007 Sean Minor Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa

A deep ruby wine, this Cab is tempered with 13% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot.  The result is an alluring berry mix.  The nose says ripe cherry, cassis, and blackberries.  The flavors continue the berry rush combined with savory spices.  Some will note cedar in it as well.  Thanks to the blending, this fruit-forward, medium-bodied wine has soft tannins and a sweet oak balance that provides a long, lingering finish.

2008 Dry Creek Fume Blanc, Sonoma

This wine is a perfect match for the beginning of summery days with its wonderful fresh-cut grass aromas mixed with herbs, asparagus, gooseberries and even green chiles.  A citrusy treat, this pale gold wine is refreshingly crisp and well balanced with lemon zest, cucumber and mineral flavors. It has a dry, crisp finish, making for a delicate wine that can be enjoyed with the lighter foods that we enjoy so much in warmer weather.

According to the Aussie survey of 1,000 people, only 7 percent could recall the date of Mother’s Day, which happens to be the same at the U.S. celebration (May 9), and apparently, we don’t put on our thoughtful caps when selecting presents for our underappreciated mothers. Most unwanted gift item? Cleaning appliances (aka vacuums), fitness equipment, foot spas, kitchen gadgets, and items purchased obviously at the last-minute.

Mother’s Day Help to the Rescue!

Do I even need to mention this to you again?  Be inspired.  Buy your mother membership to the Hinsdale Inspired Wine Club!  It’s the perfect Mother’s Day gift and it keeps on giving, month after month.  Your mother may like it so much you can do it again next year!

Sure, your mom would like to tour Napa Valley or sit on a sunny terrace in Provence, sipping some refreshing rosé.  Maybe she’d love to enjoy a rich Malbec in the dusty vineyards, watching the sunset in Mendoza.  Those things aren’t necessarily the easiest to give, especially when we have forgotten when Mother’s Day is and/or have waited until the last minute to buy our beloved parent a gift.  (We should know better, but so many things get in the way, right?)

So, here’s a way to capture those travels and wines in one convenient gift – membership in the largest wine club in the Chicago area, boasting more than 400 members. That means more buying power to find better wines and get better values. For $34.95/month (no long-term contract required), members receive:

* Two fine wines each month, valued on average at $50 and selected through a rigorous tasting process

* Informative literature on Wine Club wines, including tasting notes and reviews

* Special discounts on the month’s wine, if you decide to buy more.

* Special alerts on wine specials and store events, and

* 6- and 12-month memberships are available, as well, at $209.70 and $419.40, respectively.

Australians may not know everything, but of the two thirds of “mums” who actually received a Mother’s Day gift last year, 47 percent “weren’t happy with it, with 15 percent saying it was bought at the last minute, the survey indicated.”  Tsk, tsk.  With all that good wine down under, you’d think they’d have a wine club like Hinsdale’s to prevent such a disaster. Hinsdale Cellars, with its Inspired Wine Club, offers helpful, unique expertise and is most likely to introduce you and your favorite Mom to your next favorite wines.

For more information, come visit the store at 12 E. Hinsdale Ave., the Web site at http://www.hinsdalecellars.com or call 630.654.9862.

Wine, not Whines, for Mom

Perhaps talking about Mothers’ Day approximately a month ahead of time would seem a bit premature to some people.  However, as a mother, I have learned that my family doesn’t seem to hear me the first time I say anything unless it’s “hot chocolate chip cookies just came out of the oven…” Even then, I can quickly lose out to a heated Wii game or a captivating episode of The Simpsons.

That said, Mother’s Day is just around the corner on May 9th, and this is one mother who is willing to stand up and speak for the masses: You know what moms like?  We like wine.   Big surprise on a wine blog, right?  Well, but then you must know that the women in your life who also get to be mothers are likely nodding in agreement right about now.

In fact, they are not only nodding in agreement but buying wine as they do so.  According to the Washington Post, women make 57 percent of U.S. wine purchases.  Even more staggering and written in scholarly-speak, scientists from the International Journal of Wine Business Research estimate 80 percent of the wine sold in the United States is to women.  And they know a lot about us, too.  They conclude that women are more apt than men to seek information from wine store employees, a server, sommelier or winery personnel than men.  We actually read those labels and shelf tags that wine guys provide for us, and we tend to love to buy wines with medals and awards. I hate generalizations about any group of people because it can often lead to prejudice, but in this case, I must say I can corroborate those findings.

Mom-Worthy Wine

So, where do you find wine worth your favorite Mom’s time?  She’s obviously dear enough to you that you have suffered through this blog and are now pondering whether a month could possibly be enough time to get her the gift she deserves. The key here is to think about how wines take people on journeys.  A sip of a sensuous Malbec provides immediate transport to vibrant Argentina.  The right kind of Grenache-rich rosé can recall her backpacking experiences in Europe after college that led her to Aix-en-Provence. And a dry Riesling from Australia reminds her of the Outback trip she’d like to take for her next milestone birthday.  There’s a way to capture those travels and wines in one convenient gift, and that’s the Hinsdale Cellars Inspired Wine Club – the largest wine club in the Chicago area, boasting more than 400 members. That means more buying power to find better wines and get better values.

True Love is… The Hinsdale Wine Club!

The scrambling has begun.  Each February, the pressure is on for couples everywhere to find that perfect gift that says I love you more than ever and celebrate St. Valentine’s Day with fervor.  Yes, a dozen red tea roses are special.  Most never tire of a metallic red heart box full of chocolates.  And a meal at a memorable, cozy restaurant is always meaningful.  But alas, while the memories may last, these gifts do not.

In a week or less, roses will be withering.  Only the sweet chocolate smell will remain in a heart-shaped box (unless tough caramels are still there, too).  And the dinner will have long digested.  And what does that say about your love—that it has passed as well?  Well, perhaps this year, it’s time to find a gift that can last at least until next Valentine’s Day:  membership in the Hinsdale Cellars Inspired Wine Club.

“Your words are my food, your breath my wine. You are everything to me.”

- Sarah Bernhardt, French Stage/Film Actress (1844-1923)

The Inspired Wine Club says your love is lasting and that you treasure your beloved like a fine wine that only improves as you age and grow together.  Each month, your beloved will receive two unique, special and truly fabulous wines, which provide you a monthly celebration of love.  Hinsdale Wine Cellar gurus handpick each month’s selections – even traversing the globe to find some!  And as the wine club membership list grows, so too does the wine value as the club’s buying power increases.  Most bottles are estimated at $50, despite a monthly club fee of only $34.95 ($419.40 for all 12 months) plus shipping.

“Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.”

- Robert Heinlein, American science-fiction writer (1907-1988)

Happiness is indeed guaranteed with the wide range of wines you and your beloved will experience in the Inspired Wine Club.  Each month, these wines will transport your senses to the world’s most premier vineyards, experiencing an exotic, hot Malbec from Argentina, a tender Provencal Grenache Rosé, a lush Rioja from Spain, a dry Australian Riesling full of minerality, and so much more.  Essentially the Inspired Wine Club provides a passport to broaden wine horizons, including literature, tasting notes and reviews.  Your beloved will also get special discounts on each month’s wine selections upon purchasing more of these great wines and advance notice of other wine specials and events at Hinsdale Cellars.  You might think that this gift is something you could only dream of, but thank goodness, it’s actually right here, right now, waiting for you to select it and make your St. Valentine’s Day remarkably blissful.

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”

- Dr. Seuss, American Writer, Cartoonist (1904-1991)

“What I need to live has been given to me by the earth. Why I need to live has been given to me by you.”

~Author Unknown

A long history of winemaking

Archeologists basically found old wine bottles and other winemaking evidence that date back to 6^th century B.C., and wine historians believe Slovenians probably learned about fermentation from the Greeks.  Throughout history, however, it’s been a roller coaster ride for Slovenian winemakers – boosted by the Romans, nearly dying out as a trade in 700 A.D., rising again simultaneously with Christianity in the region (the Catholic Church was a big player in the wine business in the 1200-1500s), until the late 1800s when Phylloxera destroyed half of the vineyards and sent winemakers scrambling all the way to the United States in many cases.  Slovenia went from 126,000 acres of vineyards to today’s nearly 60,000 acres.

The Oxford Companion to Wine estimates that today Slovenia has more than 40,000 registered wineries, making the average vineyard pretty small – 8-15 acres on average.  No surprise that most of locals generally consume most of this wine.

At a cultural, geographic crossroads

Interestingly, Slovenia is at the heart of great winemaking territory, or should I say terroir?  South of Austria, east of Italy, sitting along a bit of the Mediterranean and on the edge of some Alps, Slovenia enjoys a variety of terrains and microclimates that also unfortunately provide an unbelievable degree of uncertainty with each vintage.  Their limited production becomes ever more so in years where weather is not cooperative – 20, 30 even 50 percent less than normal.

Three broad regions comprise Slovenia wine territory: Primorska, Posavje and Podravje.  Primorska, which is also written as Primorje, lies closest to Italy, so many collaborations with Italian winemakers continue to occur. This region is probably the best known internationally, thanks to the Brda subregion and Movia, the oldest privately owned estate here, which makes biodynamic wines that caught Robert M. Parker Jr.’s attention.  Conversely, Posavje is probably least well known, but is the region that produces nearly as many red wines as whites and is located next to the Austrian border.  Podravje is the largest region, and according to Parker, has “long enjoyed the highest-quality reputation.”

The beauty of such diversity in such a small country is that winemakers are game for exploring varietals that will maximize the terroir of their very specific area.  Slovenia is most known for its whites, which make up 75 percent of its wines.  Not surprisingly, you will see Slovenian Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris.  However, more likely, you will encounter wines whose names you can barely pronounce, let alone be familiar with.  The Wall Street Journal published a story recently on this phenomenon of unpronounceable wines come from Slovenia and other Eastern European countries, so now is the time to get a taste of Samling, Traminer, Sylvaner, Ribolla Gialla, Malvasia, Kerner, Pikolit, Viovska, Sipon and Pinela.

Understanding Slovenian wine lingo

Much like the European Union, Slovenia created laws to require testing and tasting prior to market that decides the wines’ quality, per the Zaščiteno geoggrafsko poreklo (ZGP), which is similar to the European Union’s QWPSR system (Quality Wines Produced in Specified Regions). The quality ranges are: Namizno vino (table wine); Deželno vino PGO (country wine); Kakovostno ZGP (quality wine); and Vrhunsko vino ZGP (premium quality wine). Additionally, Slovenian wine labels identify wine sweetness with the following terms: suho (dry), polsuho (medium-dry), polsladko (medium-sweet) and sladko (sweet).

It’s hard to get smart about Slovenian wine since so little of it leaves Slovenia. With the increased interest in finding new great wines, however, U.S. importers are starting to bring these Slovenian gems to wine sellers.  The key to learning more, however, is finding a wine merchant like Hinsdale Cellars, whose staff can provide information about their specific offerings and offer a taste of the Old World.

– Ivy F. Kupec

Whatever and wherever your friends, family and colleagues are celebrating holidays this time of year, wine is a natural gift that not only adds joy to the season, but color as well.

With wine, you have the opportunity to send Aunt Tillie to France with a succulent Chateauneuf-de-Pape.  Thank that neighbor who loves using his fancy snow blower to clear your sidewalk as well as his by sending him to Germany with a chilled Riesling.  The shy accountant who takes care of your taxes in his musty office can take respite in Argentina via a pampas-derived Malbec.  And what clients wouldn’t enjoy a sparkling Cava to ring in the New Year?

It is hard to find something more festive than wine for the holidays. And it’s also the gift among gifts.  There’s something about wine and wine bottles that just immediately says, “When you open me, I will taste good and provide a good experience.”  OK, not every wine can live up to that expectation, but because the majority do, a gift of wine is something that rarely goes unused or unappreciated.  Wine tells stories and conveys inherent fellowship.  And these days it’s easier than ever to find a wine that fits your budget as well as it fits the person who is receiving it.

Hinsdale Cellars has made it easier than ever to send your family, friends, colleagues and clients fine wines for a happy holiday.  They will even help you with your shopping from afar, much like that florist in Miami picks out a bouquet within your budget and just right for your Oma who now lives near the beach.

Christmas shopping as easy as 1-2-3

Whether you come to the store, give Hinsdale Cellars a call, or shop online, the best place for Christmas gift wine is Hinsdale Cellars (http://www.hinsdalecellars.com or 630.654.9862) The Web site has wonderful tasting notes and broader information about wine in its Vintelligence blog.  A direct call or a visit to the store will have you talking to one of the on-site wine experts who can find just the right wine(s) within your budget. For client gifts, it’s as easy as 1-2-3:

Step 1: Let Hinsdale Cellars know your budget per client and any other information that might help guide wine selection.

Step 2: Provide your client list, including full names and addresses.

Step 3: Provide credit card information, and Hinsdale Cellars does the rest, filling out holiday cards, including thoughtful tasting notes, and packaging and shipping.

Wine is a gift that is sure to help make your family, friends’, colleagues’ and clients’ yuletide season joyous.  For more information, call Hinsdale Cellars at 630.654.9862 or e-mail sean@hinsdalecellars.com.

Happy Holidays from your friends at Hinsdale Cellars!