Duke of Bourbon - Rare Wines - Fine Spirits - Personalized Service - David, Judy and Ron Breitstein - 20908 Roscoe Blvd - Canoga Park CA 91304 - Phone: 818/341-1234 or 800/4-FINE-WINE - Fax: 818/341-9232
20908 Roscoe Blvd • Canoga Park CA 91304
Hours: Mon - Sat • 9AM - 6PM		 Phone: (818) 341-1234 • Fax: (818) 341-9232
Outside California: (800) 4-FINE-WINE
elcome to the Virtual Vine-Line, a new Duke favorite. Through the Internet, we will be keeping you posted on new and exciting happenings in the world of wine. We will continue to update this virtual newsletter often, so stay with us as we move more and more to using the Internet to keep in touch with you - much faster than in the past. Isn't this fun?!
Table of Contents
  1. - Just One Week to Go! April 24
  2. - Plumpjack - What a Wine! April 23
  3. - Duckhorn - Wanna Hear More? April 22
  4. - Up to 20% off Chateau Montelena Wines!! April 21
  5. - The Duke Fights Back!! April 9
  6. - More Gems From Our Private Cellar Collection April 8
  7. - Gems From Our Private Cellar Collection April 1
  8. - Incredible Merlot From Napa March 31
  9. - Central Coast Wineries Seminar March 27
  10. - Magnum of 1982 Bordeaux Available! March 24
  11. - Origin-Napa - A New Winery with Old Roots! March 21
  12. - Save 20% on Au Bon Climat and Qupe Futures! March 18
  13. - Duckhorn Reigns at the Duke!! March 12
  14. - March Merlot Madness at the Duke!!! March 11
  15. - Price Reduction on '97 Beringer PR March 10
  16. - You are Cordially Invited. . .March 5
  17. - 1997 -YOU-GET-A-SECOND-CHANCE-SALE March 3


Rare Wines • Fine Spirits • Personalized Service
David & Judy Breitstein

VINE-LINE March/April/May 2003

Plumpjack - What a Wine!


Plumpjack Cabernet Sauvignon has been taking the wine world by storm for the last few years. The 2000 vintage is a grand example of why it is so highly respected.

This superb wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon produced from grapes grown on the estate vineyards adjacent to the winery on the Oakville Cross Road. Pour it and stunning aromas greet you from your glass. As the deep purple wine opens, bright acidity counterpoints notes of cedar, black fruit, chocolate and vanilla. Taste it and its exciting complexity urges you on to the next sip. In fact, you may not be able to just sip - it is so good, you may take a mouthful! The rich finish is simply sensational and, if you can hold on to it, the wine certainly will age beautifully for a decade or more.

The Duke has obtained a limited supply of this incredible wine and is offering it at $55.00 per bottle or $330.00 per 6-pack case.

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



Duckhorn - Wanna Hear More?

The staff here at the Duke has a dangerous and lonely job. A few days ago, we were called upon to sample some of the new Duckhorn releases. Sigh, the sacrifices we make on behalf of our clientele. But in true Duke fashion, we answered that call and tasted three incredible wines. We accorded them all the highest praise possible - just what you expect from Duckhorn.

2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley


This elegant, stylish wine is a worthy sister to the better-known Duckhorn Merlots. It is definitely in the same league as its predecessor (the 1999 vintage), which was honored as the #6 wine of the year in the Wine Spectator's "Top 100 Wines" issue for 2002. The classic aromas of cassis, cherry and tea are followed by flavors of plum, blackberry, pepper, bittersweet chocolate and sweet oak. The tannins are soft and integrated with the fruit. The finish is long and balanced, yet complex. This Cabernet Sauvignon retails for $55.00 per bottle, but the Duke is offering it at a 10% discount when you buy 6 or more of the wines listed in this note.

2000 Merlot, Napa Valley, Three Palms Vineyard


All of the grapes in this wine were harvested from Three Palms Vineyard. (One of the original palms has had to be replaced, so the vineyard is now affectionately nicknamed "Two-and-a-Half Palms"). Before bottling, the wine spent 20 months in new French oak. The nose begins with raspberry jam, caramel and toasty oak. On the palate, those aromas evolve to chocolate, black cherry and coffee. Supple tannins are nicely balanced by ripe fruit and a lingering finish. Three Palms Merlot is available to you at $75.00 per bottle.

1999 Merlot, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain


Traditionally, the Howell Mountain Merlot is the last wine released by Duckhorn each vintage. All of the grapes come from the Howell Mountain appellation from three separate vineyard sites. The wine was coopered for 19 months in new French oak before bottling. This intense wine starts with a complex aroma of cassis, herbs, honey and spice. Rich and chewy, it evokes cherry, blackberry, cedar and white pepper on the palate. The tannins are rich and smooth and are followed by chocolate and sweet fruit on the long, lingering finish. The Howell Mountain Merlot retails for $65.00, but the Duke will discount it by 10% when you buy 6 or more of the wines listed in this note.

If you like Duckhorn as much as we do at the Duke, here is your chance to score the newest releases. As a reminder, we still have the 2000 Merlot, Napa Valley available at $46.00 per bottle. We are including it in this sale at a 10% discount when you buy 6 or more of the wines listed in this note.

These reduced prices are good through May 10, 2003.

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



Up to 20% off Chateau Montelena Wines

Here is an opportunity to mix and/or match yourself an incredible box of wine at 20% savings!

You have heard from us a couple of times about our Chateau Montelena Futures Program. It is easy to overlook the fact that Chateau Montelena produces something other than that fabulous Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. Let's take a look at the current releases. The Duke is excited about these wines and hopefully we can get you excited as well. If you do get excited enough to buy a case (mixed or matched), we will give you 20% off the suggested retail. For purchases of less than 12 bottles, you still get a 15% discount.

1999 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga Cuvee

This Bordeaux-style blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. The grape sources are in the Calistoga area with some of the grapes coming from the Estate itself. The wine is soft and round on the palate with a warm, spicy berry flavor. The texture is very supple, but the wine still has the backbone to age well.

(Retail is $35.00 per bottle, so your price is $29.75 - Buy 12 or more total bottles and get this one for $27.99 per bottle.)

2000 Napa Valley Chardonnay

Winemaker Bo Barrett thinks this is the best juice ever for their Chardonnay. They have worked diligently to make their great Chardonnay even better in the true Montelena style. That means no malo-lactic fermentation, little yeast stirring, judicious use of oak, purity of fruit flavors and fine balance. The aromas that emanate from the glass are of fruit, lychee, citrus, pear and apple. The wine is full-bodied with bright fruit, refreshing balance and a long juicy finish.

(Retail is $33.00 per bottle, so your price is $27.99 - Buy 12 or more total bottles and get this one for $26.40 per bottle.)

2000 Zinfandel, Estate

Given the cool nights of the Montelena Estate, this Zinfandel shows a classic red wine balance of fruit, tannin and alcohol. A dark ruby red, it demonstrates good extraction by the "legs' on the glass. The aroma is complex, raspberry, bramble and that great Montelena earthiness. The palate has juicy red fruit, spice and berry flavors. It is just plain smooth, a perfect Zinfandel.

(Retail is $25.00 per bottle, so your price is $21.25 - Buy 12 or more total bottles and get this one for $19.99 per bottle.)

Remember, we can ship almost anywhere.

This special is in effect until Saturday, May 3, 2003. Please call and take advantage of these outstanding prices on some equally outstanding wines.

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.
The Duke Fights Back

The Duke specializes in rare and hard-to-find wines. However, we realize that you need something to drink on a daily basis that doesn't wreck your wallet. We can find inexpensive wines by the dozens for you, but we demand that they also deliver quality. The field narrows dramatically with that added requirement. We at the Duke struggle mightily to find high-quality wine at reasonable prices for our friends.

If Italian is your thing and you want to venture beyond the white wine world of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, we have found the perfect wine for you - Castello di Gabbiano 2001 Pinot Grigio. This wine retails normally for $11.50. The Duke is able to bring it to you and your table for $4.99 per bottle or, by the case, just $47.88 ($3.99 per bottle). This is an unbelievable value for a high-quality wine.

Continuing the Italian motif, we have Jim Clendenen's Bricco Buon Natale 2000 Barbera available here at just $8.99 per bottle. Jim's reputation for producing quality wine is widely known and this sensational wine is superior to many top Barberas from Italy.

A couple of visitors to the store were surprised to find Joseph Phelps 2000 Pastiche on display. They had thought we were out of it. We are out of the 1999 vintage, but the 2000 vintage is just as good (some say even better). The price of quality is $5.99 per bottle or just $60.00 per case. We also have the Joseph Phelps 1998 Wolfgang Puck Signature Red at the same price as Pastiche.

Continuing the theme of quality, we still have a supply of the outstanding Christian Moueix 2000 Merlot from Bordeaux. Christian Moueix is the owner of both Petrus, the giant of Pomerol, and Dominus of the Napa Valley. This wine appears on the wine lists of some local restaurants for over $35.00. Here at the Duke, the price of quality is just $6.99 per bottle or $79.99 per case.

We continue to have the Chateau Woltner 1998 Howell Mountain Chardonnay on hand. Made to retail for $23.50 (and it tastes like it), we have it for you at $6.99 per bottle or just $72.00 per case.

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



More Gems from Our Private Cellar Collection

Your response to our previous e-mail offering of our private cellar gems was most gratifying. So much so that we have decided to extend the sale deadline and add even more wines to the list (marked by **). Take another look at the new list and call us.
If you order by April 17, you will receive 20% off the already low offering price.

Vintage WinePriceCode
1996 Arietta Red$79.99WB
1996Beringer Chardonnay, Private Reserve$25.00GW
1997 Cardinale$125.00WB
1997 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon, Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd**$125.00DB
1992 Chateau d'Armailhac**$29.99JP
1995 Chateau Leoville-Barton**$69.99WB
1967 Chateau Leoville-Poyferre**$89.99MS
1997 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay**$29.00GW
1995 Chateau Palmer**$95.00WB
1997 Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon$39.99CW
1995 Constant Diamond Mountain$99.99WB
1995 Croft, Quinta da Roeda (WS 91) **$39.99DB
1993 Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Gravelly Meadow**$99.99JP
1993 Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Gravelly Meadow (WS 91) **$99.99JP
1996 Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Rock Terrace**$99.99JP
1996 Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Rock Terrace (WS 92) **$99.99JP
1992 Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Volcanic Hill, Magnum**$300.00JP
1995 DRC - Echezeaux**$250.00WB
1993 Duckhorn Merlot, Three Palms$75.00JP
1995 Dow, Quinta da Bomfim (WS 90) **$39.99DB
1995 Etude Pinot Noir**$29.99DB
1996 Far Niente Chardonnay (WS 90)$45.00MS
1995 Franciscan Chardonnay, Cuvee Sauvage, Napa Valley**$14.99GW
1981 Grace Family (Caymus) Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1982 Grace Family (Caymus) Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1991 Grace Family Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1992 Grace Family Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1986 Graham's Vintage Port**$79.99CW
1990 Harrison Cabernet Sauvignon $45.00MS
1991 Hartwell Cabernet Sauvignon, Grace Vineyard**$150.00WB
1994 Hartwell Cabernet Sauvignon, Grace Vineyard**$179.99WB
1997 Hartwell Cabernet Sauvignon, Grace Vineyard**$179.99WB
1994 Hartwell Cabernet Sauvignon, Sunshine Vineyard$99.00WB
1985 Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha's Vineyard$299.99WB
1996 Hitching Post Pinot Noir, Highliner**$35.00DB
1994 Jean Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet, Premier Cru Les Caillerets**$39.99GW
1974 Joseph Swan Zinfandel$35.00MS
1995 Lail Cabernet Sauvignon$49.99WB
1997 Liparita Chardonnay, Carneros$25.00GW
1996 Longoria Pinot Noir**$32.50JP
1994 Luce**$49.99JP
1991 Kenwood Cabernet Sauvignon, Artists? Series**$59.99CW
1992 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$45.00JP
1996 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$49.99JP
1996 Long Vineyards Johannisberg Riesling (500ml) **$19.99DB
1998 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$49.99MS
1992 Long Vineyards Chardonnay$39.99JP
1998 Paul Hobbs Chardonnay, Walker Station Vyd (RP 92) **$35.00DB
1996 Qupé Syrah, Bien Nacido Hillside Estate$39.99DB
1998 Qupé Syrah, Bien Nacido Hillside Estate$39.99DB
1986 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve$69.99GW
1995 Rosenblum Cabernet Sauvignon, Henry's Reserve$29.99MS
1998 Rudd Chardonnay, Carneros**$29.99MS
1992 Sassicaia - Current vintage $180.00/bottle$125.00GW
1991 Sassicaia - Magnum$250.00GW
1992 Sassicaia - Magnum$250.00GW
1997 Spring Mountain Red Table Wine$49.99MS
1996 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, FAY - MAGNUM$199.50DB
1996 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, SLV - MAGNUM$199.50DB
1974 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Merlot$49.50MS
1995 Taylor, Quinta de Vargellas (WS 92) **$49.99DB
1994 Vineyard 29 - produced at Grace Family Vineyards$150.00WB
1995 Warre, Quinta da Cavadinha$39.99DB


Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



Gems from Our Private Cellar Collection

Check out the following selections from our private cellar collection. Place your order by April 10 and receive a 20% discount. Most of these wines are in short supply, so you need to act right away.

Vintage WinePriceCode
1996 Arietta Red$79.99WB
1996 Beringer Chardonnay, Private Reserve$25.00GW
1991 Beringer Merlot, Bancroft Ranch$79.99MS
1997 Cardinale$125.00WB
1997 Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon$39.99CW
1995 Constant Diamond Mountain$99.99WB
1994 Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon$79.99WB
1993 Duckhorn Merlot, Three Palms$75.00JP
1997 Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon$99.99CW
1996 Far Niente Chardonnay (WS 90)$45.00MS
1981 Grace Family (Caymus) Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1982 Grace Family (Caymus) Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1991 Grace Family Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1992 Grace Family Cabernet Sauvignon$299.00GW
1990 Harrison Cabernet Sauvignon $45.00MS
1994 Hartwelll Cabernet Sauvignon, Sunshine Vineyard$99.00WB
1985 Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha's Vineyard$299.99WB
1992 Joseph Phelps Insignia - Market Value $125.00$99.99GW
1974 Joseph Swan Zinfandel$35.00MS
1997 Liparita Chardonnay, Carneros$25.00GW
1992 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$45.00JP
1995 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$59.99JP
1996 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$49.99JP
1998 Long Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon$49.99MS
1992 Long Vineyards Chardonnay$39.99JP
1996 Mer Soleil Chardonnay$35.00GW
1996 Qupé Syrah, Bien Nacido Hillside Estate$39.99DB
1998 Qupé Syrah, Bien Nacido Hillside Estate$39.99DB
1986 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve$69.99GW
1995 Rosenblum Cabernet Sauvignon, Henry's Reserve$29.99MS
1992 Sassicaia - Current vintage $180.00/bottle$125.00GW
1991 Sassicaia - Magnum$250.00GW
1992 Sassicaia - Magnum$250.00GW
1992 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon$89.50GW
1996 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon$79.99WB
1997 Spring Mountain Red Table Wine$49.99MS
1996 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, FAY - MAGNUM$199.50DB
1996 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, SLV - MAGNUM$199.50DB
1974 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Merlot$49.50MS
1994 Vineyard 29 - produced at Grace Family Vineyards$150.00WB
1995 Warre, Quinta da Cavadinha$39.99DB


Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



Another "WHAT A WINE"!

Cheers from the Duke of Bourbon.

The Duke is really excited to make a pre-release offering of what is certain to become a Napa Valley Classic, Twomey 2000 Merlot. This superb wine was created by the Duncan Family, owners of Silver Oak Cellars.

The grapes come exclusively from Soda Canyon Ranch in the volcanic hills of southeastern Napa. The mild climate is tempered by cool, foggy breezes that allow the grapes to mature slowly to maximize their black fruit character and to develop extraordinary complexity, ideal for Merlot. These particular vines are clones renowned for producing a low yield of small intense berries making a wine of intense color and concentration.

The wine, a blend of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, was fermented at a maximum of 88ºF in stainless steel tanks. After being pressed off the skins, the wine remained in the tank through malolactic fermentation and was later transferred to French oak barrels for aging. For clarity, the wine was racked souritage traditional (by hand) every three months in the manner used by the classified growths in Bordeaux. This method achieves the desired crystal clarity while maintaining a smooth, silky texture.

Exquisite balance is the hallmark of Twomey Merlot. It has a dark, ruby color and a complex nose of cherry jam, chocolate and roasting coffee. The rich expression of luscious fruit evolves into a lingering elegant finish. It reminds us of a great Pomerol. Those of you who had the great, good fortune to taste last year's offering know exactly what we mean. James Laube of the Wine Spectator opines, "An impressive, complex, balanced and concentrated wine."

The wine is due to be released May 1, 2003, at $60.00 per bottle and will not be widely available. The Duke is pleased to offer it to you on a pre-release basis at $171.00 per 3-pack ($57.00 per bottle) or $330.00 per 6-pack ($55.00 per bottle) or $648.00 per case ($54.00 per bottle). The demand for this wine is sure to be high. A 20% deposit will secure your order. Please give us a call or send us an e-mail.




Central Coast Wineries Seminar

We thought you might like to have a de-briefing of the Central Coast Wineries Seminar that the Duke hosted last Thursday.

Our guests for the evening were Jim Clendenen, owner/winemaker of Au Bon Climat and Vita-Nova and winemaker for Barham Mendelsohn, Bob Lindquist, owner/winemaker of Qupe Winery, and Gray Hartley, partner in Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines. Jim is recovering from his bout with terminal shyness quite nicely, thank you very much. His insight into making wine is equaled only by his ability to communicate with the average wine enthusiast. His comments on "terroir" were especially interesting. Bob is obviously excited about this being his 20th harvest and having such a superior vintage to celebrate. Having seized the role of "Poet Laureate" for the evening, Gray waxed eloquent on the romance of wine, particularly Hitching Post Pinot Noir.

The wines showed particularly well, as you would expect from such a superior vintage? "the best ever at the winery," according to Jim. Judging from the comments heard around the room and by the orders that were placed, each wine had its share of admirers. We at the Duke are trying to master the art of understatement, so let's just say the evening was pretty doggone good.

~ Follow this link for tasting notes ~


Call us today!

To place your order, please stop by the store or call us at 818-341-1234
or, if you are outside California, at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE

We want you to have the opportunity to share in the special futures pricing that was offered that evening. Please open the attached order form, print it out, place your order and fax or mail it to us. Or, better yet, give us a call. We may not have Jim's way with words or Gray's flair for romance, but we sure do share their love of wine.




Magnum of 1982 Bordeaux Available!

Don't ask how we do it, but the Duke has ways of finding old and rare wines. Couple that with our well-known fascination for large bottles and you have a recipe for an incredible find.

Most of you Bordeaux fanciers know that 1982 was one of the best vintages ever - that is until the 2000 came along. The Duke has unearthed a unique treasure of the 1982 vintage from the Margaux appellation, a magnum of Château Labégorce-Zédé. Tasting notes include comments like: "Dark; Intense; Full throttle; Round sweetness; Soft with good balance; Very enjoyable." The wine fulfills the promise of the vintage and more.

Here is a rare opportunity to obtain a magnum of an older Bordeaux at the surprisingly low price of $199.99. It goes without saying that we have a limited supply. Call us today!

To place your order, please stop by the store or call us at 818-341-1234
or, if you are outside California, at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE




Origin-Napa. . .A New Winery with Old Roots

How does a winery develop instant roots? Let us tell you the story of Origin-Napa. Bill Davies and Tom Gamble met on the first day of nursery school in St. Helena in 1965. Bill is the son of Jack and Jamie Davies, the founders of Schramsberg Vineyards in Napa Valley. Tom's family has farmed in the Napa Valley since 1916. It is almost inevitable that the two would form a life-long friendship and, later, a partnership to produce high-end Bordeaux-style wines. The award-winning label shows a vintage picture of the two boys playing at the Gamble Ranch in 1967. The two new releases discussed below are truly outstanding Napa Valley wines and the packaging is absolutely exquisite. Both of these wines earn the Duke's "What a Wine!" designation.

Their 2001 Sauvignon Blanc sources grapes from the Gamble Ranch in Napa. The nose, redolent of citrus, pineapple and melon, shows just how elegant this varietal can be when it is treated with loving care and minimalist wine-making techniques. The soft mouth-feel belies the excellent acidity of the wine. Even though the wine is barrel-fermented, the oak stays discreetly in the background. Robert Parker (on RobertParker.com) posted the following message on his Super Duper Sauvignon Blanc bulletin board: "Don't think I've had a sauvignon this compelling in many a moon." This wine is an outstanding value at $23.50 per bottle or $139.00 per 6-pack case.

The 2001 Heritage Sites Red (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc), sources its grapes from both hillside and valley sites in Napa Valley. Here, too, the friends employ the most gentle of farming practices and a minimum of winemaking intervention. The wine is carefully bottled both unfined and unfiltered. Balance is the word you think of to describe this wine. The aromas of raspberry and spice come through in the nose. Solid acidity and the agreeable vanilla of sweet oak nicely complement the lovely fruit on the palate. The finish is long and fulfilling with hints of chocolate and dark cherry. This wine is a bargain at $35.00 per bottle or $199.99 per 6-pack case. We are also offering a mixed 6-pack case of 3 of each wine for $169.50.

It is truly fitting that great friends produce such outstanding wine. Try some and see for yourself.
Call us today.

To place your order, please stop by the store or call us at 818-341-1234
or, if you are outside California, at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE





Save 20% on Au Bon Climat and Qupe Futures

We are pleased to continue our special Central Coast 2001 Futures program with our offering of the extraordinary 2001 vintage wines from three extremely special wineries - Au Bon Climat, Qupe and Vita-Nova. This program gives everyone a chance to save up to 20% off of the normal list prices of the wines upon release, as well as the opportunity to acquire some of the rarest of their wines. This is Part 1 of our planned offerings. Part 2 will be in your mailbox in March with the addition of Hitching Post and Margerum wines. Information about allocations and ordering is at the end of this message.

Jim Clendenen, proprietor and winemaker at Au Bon Climat, proclaims that the 2001 vintage in the Central Coast was "the best vintage in the history of the winery and...the best vintage I have ever worked!" This would include his 20+ years in the Santa Maria area, as well as several vintages in Burgundy. High praise, indeed, from a master.

Central Coast 2001 "Futures"


The Duke tasting team recently made the annual "futures" visit to the Au Bon Climat/Qupe winery in Santa Maria to taste the 2001 wines still in barrels. We were quite impressed! Following is a synopsis of our impressions and tasting notes.

Au Bon Climat

Au Bon Climat 2001 Hildegard - August 2003 Release
Price $35.00; Futures Price $27.99

A fresh, well-balanced blend of 55% Pinot Beurot (Gris), 40% Pinot Blanc and 5% Aligoté, this is Jim Clendenen's best estimate of the original ninth-century Corton-Charlemagne wine. It is straw-gold in color with a fruity nose of violets and perfume, a soft, creamy, buttery mouth-feel and a medium-long finish. A great food wine.

Au Bon Climat 2001 Chardonnay, Sanford & Benedict - August 2003 Release
Price $25.00; Futures Price $19.99

This designation was not made in 2000, so we welcome it back with this newly styled 2001 edition, which is delicious even at this young age. The wine exhibits straw-gold color, a rich nose showing some oak, forward fruit flavors that are far from lean, good acidity and a long finish. Priced at 30% below the 1999 vintage!

Au Bon Climat 2001 Chardonnay, Mt. Carmel - August 2003 Release
Price $35.00; Futures Price $27.99

Grapes for this appealing, well-structured wine came from a cool vineyard area in the Santa Ynez Valley north of the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard. In the glass, the wine reveals wonderful oak and fruit aromas and a body rich with glycerin balanced by creamy malolactic flavors and good acid. Jim is very high on this vineyard (see Pinot Noir notes).

Au Bon Climat 2001 Chardonnay, Nuits Blanches au Bouge - August 2003 Release
Price $35.00; Futures Price $27.99

What a wine! Jim's 100% Estate Chardonnay is from primarily Dijon clones grown on his Le Bon Climat Vineyard and the K Block of the Bien Nacido Vineyard. Long "legs" coat the glass while the full, rich, fruity nose of this beauty offers big hints of oak. The richness continues with full fruit flavors of great structure and balance.

Au Bon Climat 2001 Pinot Noir, La Bauge au Dessus - April 2003 Release
Price $30.00; Futures Price $23.99

This blockbuster Pinot Noir offers great extraction and concentration. It is medium-to-dark red in color, has the classic Pinot Noir nose of raspberries and herbs, spicy tastes on the palate with hints of cloves, a moderate acid/tannin structure and a solid finish. It's the best La Bauge ever . . . try it, you'll love it!

Au Bon Climat 2001 Pinot Noir, Sanford & Benedict - August 2003 Release
Price $35.00; Futures Price $27.99

Jim feels that this is his best Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir in several years. The smokiness in the nose does not mask the fruitiness that follows through in the earthy, cherry, spicy flavors. It has great depth, great length and great aging potential.

Au Bon Climat 2001 Pinot Noir, Talley Vineyard "Rosemary's" - August 2003 Release
Price $50.00; Futures Price $44.99

Always popular and always limited (less than 100 cases this vintage), this rich, full wine exhibits raspberries and sweet oak in the nose, ripe fruit flavors complemented by creamy, round, balanced oak and acid with a long, fruity finish. (Because of limited production, Rosemary's must be limited to 6 bottles at this offering)

Au Bon Climat 2001 Pinot Noir, Mt. Carmel - August 2003 Release
Price $50.00; Futures Price $44.99

"Monumental!" says Mr. Clendenen. Darker purple than the other ABC Pinot Noirs, this wine boasts a big, full nose with hints of sweet fruit, spice and oak. Its concentrated varietal fruit flavors burst on the palate, with oak taking a back seat to the fruitiness. It is huge but supple and shows superb balance. At this point in time, it is showing the best of all the 2001 Pinot Noirs.

Au Bon Climat 2001 Pinot Noir, Isabelle - August 2003 Release
Price $50.00; Futures Price $44.99

Full of spice and richness, this eighth vintage named for Jim & Morgan Clendenen's daughter is a crowd-pleaser. It is produced from Jim's best barrels of Pinot Noir from the best vineyard sources. Oak and fruit aromas pervade the rich, full nose with concentrated fruit flavoring this wine of complex structure and excellent balance. Top that off with a big finish and you can't beat this truly enticing beauty. (Because of limited production, Isabelle must be limited to 6 bottles at this offering)

Au Bon Climat 2001 Pinot Noir, Knox Alexander - August 2003 Release
Price $45.00; Futures Price $35.99

This namesake of the Clendenens' son is another 100% Estate wine made from the best Bien Nacido vines. The wine is rich and robust with medium-dark color, raspberries on the nose, big body with good fruit flavors and a strong finish. Very tasty!!

Barham Mendelsohn

Barham Mendelsohn 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley - August 2003 Release
Price $50.00; Futures Price $39.99

(Yes, we know it isn't Au Bon Climat and it isn't Central Coast, but the winemaker is Jim Clendenen and the wine is too doggone good not to include it.) The superb Barham Mendelsohn Vineyard is located in the Sonoma County area known for its outstanding Pinot Noirs. The 2000 vintage was a hit at our "Super Seminar" in December. The sweet, jammy 2001 wine has a rich, full nose with notes of sweet oak, spice and fruit flavors, good acidity, superb balance and an excellent finish. Great on its own and will definitely enhance any meal.

Vita-Nova

Vita-Nova 2001 Sangiovese - August 2003 Release
Price $18.00; Futures Price $13.99

A big, rich, powerful, world-class wine produced from the best grapes of the Stolpman Vineyard in Santa Ynez. The nose exudes ripe, black fruit. The fruit flavors are concentrated and balanced by good acid, tannins and 100% new oak. It's one of the finest California Sangioveses we've ever tasted and a steal at this price!

Qupe

Qupe 2001 Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Reserve Block 11 - April 2003 Release
Price $25.00; Futures Price $19.99

Produced by proprietor Bob Lindquist, this big, full-flavored wine features the hillside grapes across from the winery planted exclusively for Qupe. It was aged in 100% new François Frères oak barrels and went through 100% malolactic fermentation. A slight smokiness in the nose leads to good glycerin in the glass and deep fruit flavors in the mouth balanced with good oak and acid. It is powerful and rich and a true bargain at $19.99!

Qupe 2001 Syrah, Bien Nacido - April 2003 Release
Price $25.00; Futures Price $19.99

A dark, intense wine with typically varietal black pepper and fruit in the nose and on the palate, plus the solid acid and good tannic structure necessary to balance the flavors. Finishes with panache!

Qupe 2001 Syrah, Bien Nacido Hillside Estate - August 2003 Release
Price $40.00; Futures Price $31.99

The biggest of them all, this powerful wine is deep and dark with chocolatey overtones in the nose and everything you'd expect a Qupe wine to be in structure - dense, spicy fruit flavors with excellent tannin balance and great length. A superior wine to age.


Special offering of 2001 Bien Nacido Hillside Estate Syrah

Size List Price Futures Price
Magnum (1.5 Ltr) $80.00 $64.00
Double Magnum (3 Ltr) $175.00 $140.00
Jeroboam (5 Ltr)S $285.00 $228.00



Qupe 2001 Syrah, 20th Anniversary Harvest - August 2003 Release
Price $50.00; Futures Price $39.99

Think "power" when you think of this wine. It was produced from the X Block of the Bien Nacido Vineyard, which is the oldest, original Syrah block, and shows the great depth of character befitting the celebration of Bob's 20th Qupe Harvest. Deep purple color and a sweet fruit and black pepper nose are followed by big fruit, firm tannin, complex structure and a big finish.

ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS:

Minimum 3 Bottle Order for Each Wine

100% Deposit Required - April/August 2003 Releases

To place your order, please stop by the store or call us at 818-341-1234
or, if you are outside California, at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE



Duckhorn Reigns at the Duke
As you probably already know, The Duke tries to sell more Duckhorn wine than any store on the planet. Since Dan and Margaret Duckhorn and their wonderful staff have not yet expanded their distribution to off-world locations, we are pretty sure that we are close to number #1 in the universe as well.

The reason for this success is because of you loyal and knowledgeable Duckhorn fans. So we deemed it appropriate to offer you an outstanding selection of their out-of-this-world Duckhorn wines. In addition, all wines marked with asterisks (**) will have an additional discount of 10% with the purchase of 12 or more assorted bottles. This offer is good until March 31, 2003, or while supplies last.

Vintage Wine Size Price
2000 Decoy Red Table Wine**750ml $24.00
1999 Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon, Monitor Ledge Vineyard** 750ml $ 89.99
1999 Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon, Patzimaro Vineyard**750ml$89.99
1999 Duckhorn Merlot, Duke's 35th Anniversary750ml$44.00
1999 Duckhorn Merlot, Duke's 35th Anniversary1.5L$89.99
1999 Duckhorn Merlot, Estate Grown**750ml$79.99
2000 Duckhorn Merlot, Napa Valley375ml$24.00
2000 Duckhorn Merlot, Napa Valley**750ml$46.00
1999 Duckhorn Merlot, Three Palms750ml$69.99
1999 Duckhorn Merlot, Three Palms3L$375.00
1999 Duckhorn Merlot, Three Palms1.5L$139.99
2001 Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley375ml$11.50
2001 Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley**750ml$22.00
2000 Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley**1.5L$46.00
2000 Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley 1.5L$110.00
2000 Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley**750ml$48.00
NV King Eider Premium Dry Vermouth**750ml$19.99
2000 Paraduxx 750ml$43.00
2000 Paraduxx (Limit 1) 1.5L$99.50


Great wine at reasonable prices is not a 'paraduxx' but a reality. Don't 'duck' this 'golden(eye)' opportunity to acquire some of the most popular wines around.

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



March Merlot Madness at the Duke
Last year, the Duke engaged Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climat to make a cost-effective, drinkable Merlot for the good friends of the Duke. Jim more than answered the challenge and made a wine that has exceeded all expectations in terms of the taste and quality of the wine. If you don't make it to the store very often, you might not have tasted this sensational wine. We want to give those of you who have tried the wine a chance to try it again and those of you who haven't an opportunity to try this outstanding Merlot for an incredibly low price.

Initially, we had been looking for a wine in the $15 to 16.00-per-bottle price range. With Jim's help, we were able to maintain the quality and still offer it in the store for $12.99. The Duke Merlot is a bargain at that price! The wine has steadily gained popularity over the last few months as more and more people tried it and came back for more.

So, for all you Merlot fans, the Duke has succumbed to the annual March Madness (not of the basketball variety) and has reduced the price to a low, low $10.99 -- something that won't wreck mayhem on your wallet, maim your budget, mutilate your credit or otherwise mangle your finances. Buy a case and save an additional $1.00 per bottle - $120.00 for 12. A perfect wine to serve at your NCAA Tourney party or to toast your team's victory. Go (insert name of favorite team here)!

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



Price Reduction on '97 Beringer PR
We are always trying to find the unusual for you, but it is sometimes refreshing to get the chance to tell you that an old friend is here.

That "old" friend is Beringer 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon, Private Reserve. This wine has been one of the most consistent performers in terms of representing the finest qualities of California Cabernet Sauvignon. Year after year, you can count on Beringer Private Reserve to deliver an outstanding wine. This version is 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc and was aged in new French oak for 22-24 months.

Robert Parker gave the wine 94 points in the Wine Advocate and enthused,
". . . a sensational effort. The plum/purple color is followed by a superb nose of smoked herbs, melted licorice, and black currant jam. Full-bodied with a silky texture and an opulent personality, this sexy, full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon will be delicious young and last for 18-20 years."

The wine carries a list price of $120.00, but the Duke is bringing it to you for just $89.99 per bottle - a 25% savings. It's time to renew old acquaintances.

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.


You are Corially Invited. . .
Judging from the attendance and enthusiasm at The Wine Association events featuring Duckhorn Wines, we have some true fans of Dan Duckhorn and his incredible wines. Dan and his staff recognize and appreciate your support and have asked us to make you aware of an evening celebrating their wines and the culinary efforts of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Marina del Rey. While neither the Duke of Bourbon nor The Wine Association is a sponsor of the event, we wanted to inform you of this special opportunity. To make your reservations, please call the restaurant, Jer-ne, at (310) 574-4333 and mention that you were referred by the Duke of Bourbon.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Please join Duckhorn Wine Company for an evening of food and wine hosted by Dan Duckhorn.

This sublime event will be held at the Ritz Carlton in Marina del Rey on March 25th at 7:00PM.

The dinner will be held in Jer-ne, the Ritz Carlton's exquisite dining room, and the food will be prepared by extraordinary chef, Troy Thompson.

For reservations please call Jer-ne at 310-574-4333 and tell them the Duke of Bourbon sent you!

The cost of this special evening is $95.00 plus tax and 18% gratuity.

MENU

Teasers

Lobster Skewers with Green apple aspic, Corn flan with caviar,
Potato salad and truffle Sushi, Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Croquettes,
Tempura California vegetable, Cray Fish and egg custard
Reception with King Eider Dry Vermouth

Belgium Leek and Truffle Terrine with Pickled Moussereone Mushrooms
2001 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc

g

Roasted Duck and Foie gras with Red Wine Strawberry
2000 Goldeneye Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

g

Vegetable Poached Beef Tenderloin on Red Wine Onions and Creamy Morels
2000 Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot
& 1997 Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot in magnums

g

Roasted Diver Scallops on a savory Plum Tart with Nasturtium and Frisse Salad
2000 Paraduxx

g

Jer-ne Through Spring in Ice Creams and Sorbets

Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



1997 - YOU-GET-A-SECOND-CHANCE SALE
Not often in life are we offered a second chance at something as good as the 1997 vintage was in Napa Valley. Did you miss out on your favorite when the '97s were released" Here is that elusive second chance courtesy of the Duke. We have acquired wines from a few cellars that include a large number from the treasured 1997 vintage. Check out the list below to find the ones you enjoy. These wines are drinking well right now, so you can buy for current consumption or to enhance your own cellar. Again, we have known the collectors for many years, so we can assure you that the cellaring is impeccable. Buy 6 or more bottles and save an additional 5%. Wines marked with an asterisk (*) do not qualify for this discount.

Vintage
Wine
Price
1997Anderson's Conn Valley, Eloge$75.00
1997Cardinale$125.00
1997Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon$49.99
1997Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate*$125.00
1997Cornerstone Cabernet Sauvignon, Cornerstone$79.99
1997Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon*$125.00
1997Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Gravelly Meadow*$125.00
1997Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Rock Terrace*$125.00
1997Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Volcanic Hill*$125.00
1997Dominus$125.00
1997Flowers Pinot Noir, Camp Meeting Ridge$75.00
1997Hartwell Cabernet Sauvignon, Sunshine Vineyard Estate$99.99
1997Joseph Phelps Insignia$125.00
1997Lokoya Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt. Veeder$169.50
1997Long Meadow Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon$59.50
1997Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignon, Stelling$110.00
1997Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignon, Sullenger$69.99
1997Niebaum-Coppola Rubicon$125.00
1997Paul Hobbs, Cabernet Sauvignon, Hyde Vineyard$75.00
1997Peter Michael Les Pavots*$125.00
1997Pine Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain$49.99
1997Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, SLD$59.99
1997Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon$59.99


Call us today at 818-341-1234 or outside California at 1-800-4-FINE-WINE.



The Duke of Bourbon is a family-operated retail wine and spirits enterprise established in 1967 in the West San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles, California. Specializing in personalized service, we offer a carefully selected collection of unique and rare California wines as well as a fine selection of French, Italian and other world-class wines. In 1990, the Duke of Bourbon was chosen as one of the top twelve wine shops in America by Wine Spectator's Market Watch Magazine. In addition, excellent articles were published in Market Watch, June 1997, Beverage Retailer, May/June 1998 and Los Angeles Daily News, December 25, 1998.

For additional information about our selection, availability, shipping, etc., please feel free to call us at (818) 341-1234 or outside CA at (800) 4-FINE-WINE.
Orders and shipping instructions can be Emailed to duke@dukeofbourbon.com and we will call or fax to confirm. Please be sure to include your telephone and fax numbers.

MEMBER WINE & SPIRITS GUILD OF AMERICA
FOOD & WINE MAGAZINE "ONE OF TOP WINE SHOPS IN AMERICA"
MARKET WATCH "TOP 12 WINE SHOPS IN AMERICA"
BEVERAGE DYNAMICS "TOP 10 RETAILERS IN AMERICA"

How to Order
DUKE OF BOURBON®
20908 Roscoe Blvd. (at DeSoto)
Canoga Park, CA 91304
Phone: 818-341-1234
Outside California: 1-800-4-FINE-WINE
FAX: 818-341-9232
E-Mail: duke@dukeofbourbon.com

Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00A.M. to 7:00P.M.
For FAX orders, please include a credit card number and
expiration date along with delivery instructions (name,
address, phone numbers), a message
for the card, and your address and phone number.

Delivery throughout Los Angeles.
We ship nationwide where permissible.

All major credit cards accepted.





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