2005 thoughts...

I'm outside typing in the backyard this afternoon while playing a little Frisbee with my faithful companion of 8 years - Henley. I rescued him from the Dallas SPCA one rainy Saturday afternoon and nursed his abused little body back to health. In turn he's always been there for me - especially when tough days get the best of me. Henley - the TexaCali Wine Co. employee in charge of keeping spirits high!

I guess it's appropriate on the last days of 2005 for the weather to be 80 degrees in Texas (please pour me another glass of Crios Torrontes!). 2005 was full of hot, crazy, unpredictable and outrageous days! Looking forward to a beautiful 2006 - between the 2005 summer heat, hurricanes, heartbreak, and launching a new company I'm ready for the awesome horizon that lies just ahead.

I am so thankful for the opportunity to do what I love and to help others along the way - so cool. All in all, 2005 was a hugely successful year for TexaCali Wine Co. A big toast to 2006 and GO HORNS!!! Ali

Bubbles for New Years...

and take-out Thai any night of the week!

I've received numerous emails this week asking my opinion on which champagne to buy for New Years Celebrations. Easy. Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose Brut is a staple in my house year round. You can find it at any fine-wine store in Texas or ask your favorite retailer to bring it in if they are temporarily sold out.

Why this beauty is a must...LP's Brut Rose is 100% Pinot Noir from 10 Grand Crus vineyards in Champagne. The special color you'll see in your glass comes from the technique known as "saignee" which is like "bleeding" the pinot noir skins instead of blending a little red with white grape juice. Laurent-Perrier Brut Rose is the REAL DEAL and delicious!! Happy 2006!! Ali

Mapema Tempranillo Dallas Morning News Wine of the Week!

Not only is this a crazy good tempranillo, it's one of the most elegant and modern wine labels found on shelves today. You can also bank on the Mapema Malbec and Primera Zona to knock off your cozy Christmas stockings. Next time you see me, stop and ask me about the magical mapema (ma-pay-ma) dinner with the winemakers in Argentina I had this year. It's a good one...

Dallas Morning News, Wednesday, December 21, 2005.
Wine of the week: Mapema, Mendoza, Tempranillo 2003
Mapema, Mendoza, Tempranillo 2003, $15.99

This may seem to be a wine of contradictions: a limited- production, handmade wine at an affordable price; a Spanish grape variety grown in Argentina. But vintners Pepe Galante and Mariano Di Paola have teamed to create consistently lush black fruit flavors with hints of spices and smoky oak perfect for a hearty meat stew. Available at Central Market Dallas, Centennial, Pogo's and The Wine Therapist. -Rebecca Murphy

Santa will skip right over the milk and cookies for this kickin' bottle of red! Check out www.texacaliwine.com for more Mapema insight. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to ALL!! Ali

ROCKIN' WITH GIBSON

Huge thanks to Gibson for the VIP showroom last night in Austin! No less than 60 or so KILLER guitars around the room to rock with while sipping wine and sake - how am I going to ever top that!!??!!?? Cheers - Ali

Holiday Survival Wines

Ah, the holidays are here, peace, love and joy. Well, in keeping things real we all know that holiday family gatherings can also bring on a little stress. Thank God for wine to get us through! For those looking forward to gathering with families and friends and those needing a little patience, the following wines will guarantee pure holiday joy!

$10 Budini Malbec – this cool little sipper from Argentina was just voted a “Top 10 Party Wine from Food and Wine Magazine”. The price won’t break the bank – serve it to your grumpy uncle who always brings over a 1.5 liter of Yellow Tail, you’re doing a great service here by increasing his wine knowledge…talk about the “spirit of giving” - an inexpensive bottle you can drink as well!

$20 Olivet Lane Chardonnay – serve this to your brother-in-law the “wine know-it-all”. Tell him that Olivet Lane is one of the most prestigious vineyards in all of the Russian River in Sonoma County. If he knows anything about wine, he’ll be able to recognize Olivet Lane from producers such as Merry Edwards, Williams-Seylem, Kenwood and Gary Farrell to name a few. By the way – this chardonnay is for those who normally don’t sip this varietal. Very well balanced with many layers – not full of American oak – you actually taste the fruit.

$26 Tikal Patriota – this one comes with an added bonus! Besides the most incredible blend of Bonarda and Malbec, the bottle itself weights about 5 lbs. Might come in handy when the in-laws or that crazy aunt are wearing out their welcome.

$25 Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet – you should buy a case. It’s for all the times your wife says “Honey you spend too much on wine”. We all know what I mean. Hands-down this wine blows away any other Alexander Valley Cabernet made today – even the one with “silver linings” that cost 3 times as much. She will love you for such the cost-cutter!

$20 Handley Anderson Valley Chardonnay – this vineyard is officially certified organic and the wine is full of richness. Save it for your cousins who just flew in from Berkley. This will make them less nervous about visiting Texas. Trust me they are…it’s a harsh world out there in California for Texans thanks to our current White House Staff.

For a list of Holiday wines for your cellar collection check out www.texacaliwine.com.

TexaCali Wine Company wishes everyone Holiday Blessings!

Cheers –

Ali

Austin-Music-Wine - OH YEAH.

So what a way to end the year on a high note.TexaCali Wine Co. is co-hosting a Grammy Party & Wine Tasting for a record label at Guitar Center in Austin this week.

I can't wait! Jeesh - The last time I walked into a Guitar Center I was returning a gorgeous brand-spanking new Gibson J 45 (Sunburst) and shiny new case, man such a heart-wrenching, messed up and long story...Guitar Center this time around should be quite the pleasant experience - I'm looonnnggg overdue for some good guitar playin' karma!! Cheers - Ali

The Biggest Wave of the Year

How many of you in wine retail feel like this guy right now?! ha!... Ali

2004 Tikal Patriota

Recently over dinner a very high profile Dallas chef told me he was sorting through his storage warehouse and peaked into a locker across the isle...this fella was taking a few bottles out for a dinner and among all the First Growths, Cali Cult Wine and a few other doozies where big black boxes of Tikal and Luca stood out front and center. The story told by the Chef made me smile for hours - I'm so proud of these wines! No doubt collectors around the state are taking serious care of Argentina's most luscious wines.

Tikal Patriota is absolutely my favorite of all - from the groovy artwork on the outside to the elegant flavors on the inside. Hunt this bottle down - you will become a fan for life - I guarantee. (By the way, the Tikal Patriota is the #1 selling wine among the Tikal and Luca family wines in Texas).


Tasting Notes/Food Pairing Suggestions: Aromas of bright berry/cherry fruit and electric-purple color. Like swallowing a whole bowl of mixed ripe berries at once. Big body yet very balanced, with luscious layers of raspberry, cherry, and cocoa flavors. Just a hint of baking spice at the end brings it all together. Pairs well with grilled meats such as beef and pork, smoked ham, and even pizza with meat toppings. Incredibly fun to drink!

About the Name/Label: Tikal is named after Ernesto's son. Ernesto named this particular wine “Patriota” ( “Patriot”) since Bonarda and Malbec grapes have been at the core of Argentina 's great winemaking tradition since its foundation. The original artwork of this passionate dancing couple was created by Ernesto's close friend and artist, Ariel Mlynarzewicz. Drink up! Ali

Dallas Morning News Wine of the Week!

Just in time for the freezing weather here...


Ben Marco, Mendoza, Malbec 2003

Argentine malbecs are often jammy, blackberry quaffers, great for burgers and pizza. This beautifully structured wine is from Argentina's hottest husband-and-wife team, Pedro Marchevsky and Susana Balbo. He sourced the grapes; she finessed silky, black fruit lifted by an edifice of vivid acidity and masterfully integrated, ripe tannins.

Available at Central Market, Mr. G's, Far Pointe Cellars, Centennial and Pogo's. $19.99 - Rebecca Murphy Wednesday, December 7, 2005.

Tis the Season to Shop!

I've put together an incredible short list of top rated wines - all received 90+ points from critics. If you are just getting started on your wine collection or need to impress the boss or the girlfriend, wife, Mother-in-law or whoever - I promise any bottle from this list will be a big hit. Just click this Holiday Link and print the list off. Happy Shopping - Ali

Free Wine - well sort of...

Tonight - I'll be leading a wine talk and tasting along with Buzz Whelan to learn a little about the Riedel family and the development of the amazing O glasses. We'll compare four KILLER wines (Handley Sauv Blanc, Handley Chardonnay, Olivet Lane Pinot Noir, Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet)in your own set (which you will take home) to the wines in a standard glass.

Discover for yourself how the proper container enhances both the taste and aroma of each selection. There will be special pricing on additional sets for the participants on the evening of the class. A light buffet will be served as the class begins. $120

See you tonight - 7-9pm Dallas Central Market - Ali

Handley’s Estate Vineyard

... is now certified organic. I took the Anderson Valley Estate Chardonnay out with me yesterday to taste with accounts in Big D. Everyone agreed - YUM. This bottle is truly filled with elegance and grace. I opened the bottle at 2:00pm and finally drank a full glass at 6:00pm - still full of character and fresh apple and pear flavors.

Silver Medals: New World International Wine Competition, Pacific Rim International Wine Competition, San Diego Wine Competition, Monterey Wine Competition.

Click here to read about the Milla Handley's organic certification thoughts. Oh how Texans love the beautiful wines Handley Cellars continues to produce each year! Cheers - Ali

Blockbuster New Arrival

Just in time for the holiday gift giving season...

According to California Wine Merchants, “The 2003 Block 16 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, is the near-to-end result of a generous growing season that culminated in a spare, concentrated crop that stayed on vine until the end of September, gathering sugar and extracting flavor in the soft fall sun.

The grapes, sourced from an organically sustained vineyard on the west side of St. Helena, were (and are), in our opinion, the prize fruit of this esteemed valley. Between crush and bottle, the wine aged 15 months in French oak barrels (70% new), where it "found" itself. What we've found is our 2003 Block 16 exhibits the distinct flavors of the acclaimed St. Helena microclimate and growing conditions: dense ripe berries, clove and cooking spices, and warm vanilla on a lengthy finish. Cabernet Franc from the same vineyard was blended in for even more density and layering, adding a richness carried in cocoa. Silky tannins balance the complex fruit of this wine, while a polished firmness makes it worthy of cellaring. Which brings us to the actual end: opening a bottle.”

I couldn’t have said this any better – look for it at your favorite fine wine retail shop or department throughout Texas. Suggested Retail $55 Cheers! Ali

How do you like the new logo?

The www.texacaliwine.com redesign is in the works, stay tuned.

Holiday Wishes from Robert Parker today..."So what if it is an American holiday...it is always rewarding to pause at least one day a year and be thankful for the freedoms most of the civilized world enjoys(and often takes for granted).To do what we want in life and pursue our pleasures and hopes for good health for us and our loved ones does indeed make one feel very fortunate.And I intend to keep wishing, no matter how stacked the odds are against it,that just maybe we might one day see an end to war,violence,poverty and tyranny ....so here's to everyone having a terrific holiday....!

I certainly agree with Bob on this one - Happy Thanksgiving - Ali

Meet Eloise...

Finally, she has arrived in Texas! A fruity and delicious sauvignon blanc from California's North Coast. Eloise...a perfect dinner companion or a sassy bottle to share with the girls (Oh I better bring two).

Look for it first at Central Market in Ft. Worth, Dallas, Austin and Houston. Cheers - Ali

Estate Vineyards & Sensible Prices Win BIG!

Pellegrini Winners at the 2005 Sonoma County Harvest Fair Wine Competition

Olivet Lane Chardonnay 2004
Gold Medal & Best of Class
Release Spring '06

Cloverdale Ranch Merlot 2002
Gold Medal
Currently available ($20 retail)

Cloverdale Ranch Merlot 2003
Silver Medal
Release January '06

Pellegrini Zinfandel 2004
Silver Medal
Currently available ($24)

Pellegrini Chardonnay 2004 Unoaked
Silver Medal
Currently available ($15)

Olivet Lane Pinot Noir 2003
Silver Medal
Currently available ($24)

Olivet Lane Pinot Noir 2004
Silver Medal
Release Spring '06

CR Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Bronze Medal
Currently available ($22)

Memorable Thanksgiving Wines

Normally, I plan my meal around a certain bottle of wine I have in mind. Thanksgiving Day and weekend is just the opposite. I always have my list set early – from pre-dinner bubbles to spicy football watching reds to that perfect port with a cigar out on the patio late night. Don’t get me wrong, the holiday is always about my dearest friends and family giving thanks together, but I must confess in recent years - sharing incredible wines are among my fondest memories of Thanksgiving! You won't go wrong with these...

Dominique Portet Sauvignon Blanc – “Class in a Glass”. Portet’s Bordeaux heritage stands out in this beauty of a wine! Elegant and soft in style, sooo good on its own, but even better with homemade yeast rolls and butter! (Australia)

Luca Syrah is intense, deep purple in color. Aromas of toasty oak. Rich, lush, and mouthfilling on the palate. Deep fruit flavors of blackberry jam, black cherry and hints of sweet oak. Not French Syrah, not California Syrah—truly Argentine Syrah, with the Malbec lending some nice additional complexity. Truly a wine to “show-off” to your Thanksgiving guests! (Argentina)

Handley Sauvignon Blanc – The label is so beautiful, you can’t help but love this gorgeous wine at any fancy dinner table. Fresh scent of apricots and tangerines, with a pleasant mineral accent. Forward flavors of tangerine and lemongrass with a mouthwatering finish. This Sauv Blanc pairs very well with turkey and cranberry leftover sandwiches! (Anderson Valley, California)

Handley Gewürztraminer - Delicately perfumed with rose, orange blossoms, and sun-warmed melon, this wine fills the mouth with flavors of citrus and spice. The 2004 Anderson Valley Gewürztraminer is very versatile at the modern American table, with its many influences from all over the world. Slight sugar and spice and everything nice, that’s what this Gewurz taste like! (Anderson Valley, California)

Olivet Lane Chardonnay – I still can’t believe this amazing bottle is so inexpensive! This Chardonnay is so elegantly balanced with gorgeous fruit and lightly toasted flavors. A tremendous value from the Pellegrini folks and a great compliment to creamy cheeses, roast turkey and all the fixings! (California)

Handley Pinot Noir - Upon opening this beautiful Pinot Noir, you will notice subtle violet perfume with an accent of cinnamon. It is spicy in the mouth as well, with a long finish. Beautiful companion to smoked turkey and sweet potato pie! (Anderson Valley, California)

Teira Zinfandel – aromas of dark berry fruit on the nose: blueberry, blackberry and cherry. On the palate, the wine leads with round, rich flavors balanced with natural acidity and California Zin structure. What a MOUTHFULL – this will add a little ZING to your Turkey Day festivities! (California)

Olivet Lane Pinot Noir is such a delight, make sure to score more than one bottle of this if Pinot is your game! Williams Selyem and Merry Edwards used this vineyard for years. Dark fruits and sage on the nose, lingering and deep delicious serious fruit! By far the most elegant bottle of pinot made from the Russian River region in California, it’s wonderful with our without food!

Handley Anderson Valley Chardonnay - This wine starts with a subtle vanilla kiss. It is reminiscent of ripe pears and apples right out of a sunlit orchard, with faint floral accents. With incredible length and nice acidity, the 2002 Estate Chardonnay is lovely with creamy potatoes and pumpkin pie! (Anderson Valley, California)

Crios Torrontes – to serve before you sit down for the big meal! Enticing aromas that are strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, flowers, and orange citrus fruit. On the palate, it has mouthwatering acidity that keeps you coming back for another sip and plenty of body for a wine that shows such delicate aromas and flavors. Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed. (Argentina)

Fontaine Rosé Yarra Valley is available for the first time in the USA, Dominique Portet's Rosé has won Best Rosé in Australia 3 years in a row... only 56 cases imported for the entire USA. Refreshing, Provence-like rosé made with Cabernet, Shiraz and Merlot from the Yarra Valley.

2002 Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet and Merlot – no need to tell you how INCREDIBLE these wines are, you’ve probably tasted these and bought a few already – these rich reds are quickly becoming Texas’ best selling Alexander Valley Reds!

Print this list off, forward it to friends, wines are available statewide at your favorite wine shop or department - just ask! Happy Thanksgiving - Ali

Cool According to ME!

So this is a blog – a blog is forum for free thinking and sharing – right? So I’m free thinking tonight about how many times I’m told each week that I have “the coolest job". Here’s what I’d like to share with the thousands of folks reading this somewhat silly but passionate TexaCali Wine Trail. I totally agree – but the coolest job does not come easy! Stripes have been earned and continue to be proven by many long hours, the whole blood sweat and tears thing for sure. I am blessed, truly blessed to have found a “job” that springs me out of bed each day, pays the bills and makes me look forward to the future every second I’m awake. That is cool in my book.

My greatest challenge with starting and managing my own company is dealing with “gatekeepers” who do not share this same passion of coolness. But big things are on the horizon – a new generation of all things wine are stepping up and making waves all over the world, I’m honored and privileged to be a member of this group – as long as I keep earning my stripes, waking up each day excited to teach and share with others the gift of wine and SAKE that so many families for hundreds of years have allowed me to discover the coolest job on the planet. I'm so grateful! Cheers - Ali

Malbec For Monday Night Football!

Wine Spectator Daily Wine Pick

Nov 14, 2005 DOMINIO DEL PLATA Malbec Mendoza Susana Balbo 2003 (90 points, $27) Very ripe, this gushes with blackberry, boysenberry and fig fruit, along with mineral, briar and toast notes. Flashy and fruit-driven, but has structure and length too. Drink now through 2007. 850 cases made. - James Molesworth

Kings of Argentina

The Crown Jewels of Argentina have arrived in all their glory for holiday purchases. Keep your eyes out for the “Kings of Argentina” at your favorite wine retailer throughout the state or send me an email and tell me where you live …

Weekend has finally arrived and my brother is turning the Big 30. Laurent-Perrier Brut Rose bubbly to start the birthday festivities off with a bang. Happy Birthday Colby!

Cheers - Ali

November in Texas

Record highs across the state, I sat outside yesterday at lunch at received a sunburn! Good for the thousands of golf courses I’m sure, bad for rich, big and bold red wine! We had a teaser a few weeks back with temperatures in the low 40’s. This weather is insane.

Spending a fair amount of time in Austin these days, that place just rocks. Here are a few bottles I spied on tables and shopping baskets. Very eclectic selection – just like the scene in A-Town! Luca Chardonnay, Nandu Malbec, Fontaine Rose, Crios Torrontes (look for a nice article about Torrontes and Virtusoso in Austin Woman magazine), Pellegrini Sauvignon Blanc and Handley Chardonnay! I love Austin! Cheers - Ali

Great Fall Values

Top 20 under $20

Now for the long awaited list – enjoy! Retail prices may vary by store a tiny bit…print this off and keep with you at all shopping times!

Red Wines

1. $15.50 La Posta Bonarda – an Argentine sizzler, if you prefer BIG reds from Italy or California Zins this one is a must. The flavor of freshly-crushed raspberries is echoed on the palate, along with notes of white pepper, dark chocolate, and a touch of oak.

2. $19.99 Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet – from the Pellegrini Family of Sonoma, this killer cabernet just beat out 2001 Silver Oak Alexander Valley in a blind tasting in North Texas. If you are a BBQ griller or live with one – keep a case of this around!

3. $17.99 Teira Zinfandel – aromas of dark berry fruit on the nose: blueberry, blackberry and cherry. On the palate, the wine leads with round, rich flavors balanced with natural acidity and California Zin structure. What a MOUTHFULL!

4. $16.99 Mapema Tempranillo – no doubt this Argentine red will become your favorite Tempranillo from ANY region. Intense fruit character, with deep color and flavors of ripe black cherries and black raspberries. The wine finishes with captivating hints of cardamom and allspice.

5. $19.99 BenMarco Cabernet - Beautiful deep purple color with perfumed aromas of ripe black cherries and roasted cocoa beans. This wine is full-bodied and incredibly lush for a young Cabernet. It explodes on the palate with red and black fruits, then shows baking spices on its way to a mouthwatering finish. In the Argentine section.

6. $9.99 Loica Carmenère - This is a great representation of Carmenère - a grape that only grows in Chile. This is a voluptuous, full-bodied wine rich with flavors of dark cherries, black-currant, chocolate and cedar. The velvety finish lingers on the palate and is perfect with grilled meats, pasta and cheeses. A crowd favorite always!!!

7. $9.99 Budini Malbec – I’m far from a cat person but love this simple red! Easy drinking fruity Malbec made in Mendoza. Look for the black label and yellow cat! WOOF!

8. $14.50 Crios de Susana Balbo Syrah-Bonarda - A few facts…Syrah is the well-known grape of France’s Rhone Valley and Australia’s Shiraz. Not well-known outside Argentina, Bonarda is surprisingly second only to Malbec in red grape plantings. Its origins are in Italy’s Piedmont region where it represented 30% of all pre-phylloxera plantings. In Mendoza, yields can reach 12 tons per acre (though with little flavor concentration). The key to producing great Bonarda is finding very old vines growing in the warm, sandy soils of eastern Mendoza, then limiting vigor through severe pruning and irrigation techniques. Luckily, Susana’s husband, Pedro, owns and manages such a vineyard.

9. $19.99 Cloverdale Ranch Merlot – another keeper from the Pellegrini Family. Nevermind the Sideways Pinot Noir Phenomenon. One sip of this Merlot will make you a fan for life! The 2002 Merlot is so delicious, but far from being simple tasting, offering chocolate notes along with ripe red fruit and a touch of coffee on the long finish.

10. $14.99 La Posta Malbec – “Berry Pie”, Vibrant red color with aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and blueberries wafting from the glass along with notes of caramel from the oak. On the palate, the fresh berry flavors mingle with spice notes in the finish. This is a medium-bodied and well-structured wine that is incredibly full of life. Goes great with everything from hamburgers and chicken to pasta and mild cheeses.
Rosé Wines

11. $16.99 Fontaine Rosé - a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (41%), Shiraz (34%) and Merlot (25%) – all grown in the heart of the Yarra Valley in Australia. The palate is filled with elusive flavors of strawberry, raspberry and guava, with a dry, almost savoury finish. Only 56 cases imported to the U.S.

12. $10.99 Crios de Susana Balbo Rosé of Malbec - this one was made for those who think they don’t like “pink” wine. Far from sweet but plenty of ripe and spicy berry in flavor. This is my favorite with King Ranch Casserole!

White Wines

13. $14.50 Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontes - not for Chardonnay lovers. Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed. Best enjoyed in its youth either by itself, or as a wonderful partner with smoked meats, mild to medium-strong cheeses, and seafood. Keep one in the fridge at all times!

14. $9.99 Loica Sauvignon Blanc - 36-year old vines from "El Semillero" Vineyard (100% Certified Organic by IMO Suiza) vineyard 5 miles from Curicó. Crisp and refreshing with hints of pineapple and honeydew melon.

15. $15.99 Handley Gewürztraminer - Delicately perfumed with rose, orange blossoms, and sun-warmed melon, this wine fills the mouth with flavors of citrus and spice. The 2004 Anderson Valley Gewürztraminer is very versatile at the modern American table, with its many influences from all over the world. Lip-smacking good!!

16. $18.99 Olivet Lane Chardonnay – I still can’t believe this bottle doesn’t cost me at least $50 bucks! This Chardonnay is so elegantly balanced with gorgeous fruit and lightly toasted flavors. A tremendous value from the Pellegrini folks!

17. $18.99 Handley Anderson Valley Chardonnay - This wine starts with a subtle vanilla kiss. It is reminiscent of ripe pears and apples right out of a sunlit orchard, with faint floral accents. With incredible length and nice acidity, the 2002 Estate Chardonnay is lovely with cream soups and complex pasta dishes.

18. $14.99 Pellegrini Unoaked Chardonnay – not very many “unoaked” chardonnays can be found these days. This chard has great citrus notes and a hint of spice on the finish. Perfect with Sunday brunch or kicking back during a fall evening!

19. $19.99 Dominique Portet Sauvignon Blanc – “Class in a Glass”. Portet’s Bordeaux heritage stands out in this beauty of a wine! Elegant and soft in style, sooo good on it’s own or paired with light salads and fish.

20. $19.99 Tozai Voices in the Mist Sake – Never tried a chilled sake? Well, here is the one to start with for sure! The aromas practically jump out of the glass: freshly-cut flowers, anise, pear, and a touch of pleasant earthiness. On the palate, it has solid weight and flavors of pear, fresh white rice, a pastis-like licorice flavor, and a clean finish not often found in nigori sake. Makes you want to come back for another sip.

Most wines (and sake) are available statewide at your favorite wine retailer and fine-wine loving restaurants throughout Texas! Just ask…

Cheers – Ali

2000 Miles in 7 days...

If I only had 10 more hours in a day (to sleep!). Busy is an understatement. I’m going to highlight just a few items that are important to know today…

TODAY – This afternoon I’ll be pouring Olivet Lane Pinot Noir and Portet Sauvignon Blanc at Ft. Worth Central Market.

Saturday October 22 – Waco Food and Wine Festival benefiting the Waco Human Society. I’ll be pouring Budini, Crios and Cloverdale Ranch Cab for all my fellow Waco Wine lovers.

Saturday October 21 – 2:30pm I’ll be missing the best college game of the day Longhorns VS Red Raiders. I’m SOO bummed.

Wednesday October 25 - Pellegrini Family Vineyards is sponsoring The Anne T. and Robert M. Bass 6th Annual Sixty-five Roses Wine & Food Extravaganza Benefiting Cystic Fibrosis of North Texas in Ft. Worth. We are pairing Cloverdale Ranch Cab, Olivet Lane Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and Pellegrini Sauvignon Blanc with all the incredible dishes from area chefs!

Thursday October 26 – Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in appreciation of their clients is presenting “Kings of South America” wine tasting. Crios Torrontes, Loica Sauv Blanc, Encierria, Susana Balbo Malbec and Tikal Patriota are the showstoppers!

Friday October 27 – OOH I can’t tell – but here is a hint – if you live in Houston, you’ll soon be able to fine all Pellegrini wines at your favorite wine retailer.

Saturday October 28 – Sleep!

Cheers!! Ali

Hardwine... I mean the Hardline!

Welcome to the neighborhood Far Pointe Cellar! Finally, Frisco has a first-class wine store!! Today the best live radio show in Texas is showing off their wine skills - go by and introduce yourself to the Far Pointe Cellars staff - they will become your best friends for all things wine in North Texas! New location is right on the corner of 121 and Legacy - can't miss it, a wonderful new building and the most in depth wine selection around.

1310AM The Ticket
The Hardline are broadcasting live from the Grand Opening of the brand new Farpointe Cellar Wine Store & Wine Bistro in Frisco today from 3pm to 7pm. Ticketchicks Claudia B and Mandi will be there giving away Ticket t-shirts and a copy of NBA Live ’06. Who knew Ticketchicks drank anything but cold beer and margs! Cheers!! Ali

My Favorites...

I’m asked almost each day what my favorite wine is. I honestly don’t think I have a favorite wine. I have favorite memories that involve wine. The first one that comes to mind is my very first case purchase of wine “Mezza Corona Merlot” for my best friend Ashley. I was so excited to give her this gift! We all started somewhere…

So many other memories over the years, like my first sip of a First Growth (Ch. Mouton) shared with friends, a 1978 Stags Leap Petite Sirah paired with lamb in a newly built home and kitchen, Kistler Chard during a bubble bath, my first glass of Dom for breakfast in Chicago, a case of Red Rhones over a marathon party in San Francisco, Darioush Shiraz by the fire in Tahoe, 1998 RSV Brunello in Montalcino, dancing barefoot with a bottle of Amarone under the Tuscan Moon, Luca Malbec in a vineyard during the summertime in Argentina, dinner at the Staglin’s home sipping on RSV Cabernet, conversation with friends (Jeff, Eric and Mulan) in Anderson Valley drinking vintage German Riesling, Italian Vermentino while swinging in my backyard in the Presidio, a bottle of Rose Champagne enjoyed on the couch with a Rockstar, Albarino while painting in the rain, prosecco over stirring risotto with Whitney, trying Konrad & Co. Sauv Blanc - liking it then discovering Ralph Sands liked it as well, Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet – seeing smiling customers return for more at K&L, a glass of Crios Rose paired with warm yeast rolls, I could write for days…tonight it’s a glass or two of Fontaine Rose from Dominique Portet while playing Frisbee with my dog over a fall Texas sunset...not bad not bad at all!

My "favorite wines" make me rise each day excited to introduce new wines to folks that just may be creating “favorite memories” of their own! Cheers - Ali

The Man's Shop

Received a call asking if I would be available to lead a wine tasting this week. My schedule has been pretty tight over the past few months so I've had to pass on a few, but this one caught my attention. A very luxurious mens retail store in Arlington is celebrating their 5th Anniversary and needs my help. Oh twist this arm a little, please beg me...Italian suits, Italian guys and Vino? I'm so IN! www.themansshop.com

I'm betting this wine tasting will be my most interesting one yet! Come by if you can! Cheers - Ali

Are we there yet???

WHEWWWWEEEEE! Last week was a blast! Luis Reginato (winemaker for La Posta, Luca and Tikal) was visiting us from Mendoza and was so enthusiastic about his TROPHY wines of Argentina. Read all about him, Argentina’s top rated wines and the people behind them. Susana Balbo, her husband Pedro, and Luis are written about over a 14 page article. The Empanada recipe is KILLER! http://www.saveur.com/issue.jsp?ID=200507

A big shout out to Andrea of Handley Cellars for making the tour of Texas with us, we are going to be sipping like Kings on Turkey Day this year with the Handley Gewurztraminer! Oh Yeah!

Also...Pellegrini Family Wines of Sonoma is sponsoring The Anne T. and Robert M. Bass 6th Annual Sixty-five Roses Wine & Food Extravaganza Benefiting Cystic Fibrosis of North Texas in Ft. Worth. Please join us On October 26 for a great cause and enjoy a glass or two of Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet!

Cheers - Ali

Dallas-Austin-Houston this week (this time no hurricane!)!!

I'm joining Virtuoso Selections for a portfolio tasting this week. Come by and meet Luis Reginato who is the winemaker behind Luca, Tikal and La Posta wines from Argentina among many other incredible wines to taste! Here is the scoop...

Dallas - Tuesday,September 27, 2005
Tasting from 3-7pm at the McKinney Ave. Contempory

Austin - Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Tasting from 3-7pm at the Starlite Cafe

Houston - Thursday, September 29, 2005
Tasting from 3 - 6pm at Rouge - 812 Westheimer Rd.

Cheers - Ali

The Big One that didn't get away!!

One day last July I received a call from Brian Hoffman, a Bay Area radio and newspaper personality who is THE expert on fishing conditions in and around Northern California. He began to share with me his story about the big catch…which happened to be his passion for great wine. Brian has bottled his very first vintage of Napa Valley red wine called Block 16. He named this wine Block 16 after the first block built on the Las Vegas strip – it’s a clever and quite luxurious label! So here is the scoop on how the wine tastes – IT ROCKS!

Block 16, a Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from a single vineyard of organically grown grapes in the St. Helena appellation of the valley. This ultra-premium wine is full bodied but silky, an opulent red bursting with flavors of chocolate and warm berries, with a lingering palate of sage and cassis. I loved the hint of coco powder and deep dark fruit on the finish.

The 2003 Block 16, a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc, was aged in 100% French oak artisan coopers (70% new). Only 327 cases (750 ml.) were produced.

I hope Brian makes more of the 2004 vintage or we are going to have angry Texans on our hands!!! Cheers - Ali

Living Strong

As I go through these hot September days with business dealings and so many other weekly "to-do's" that seem normal through this crazy journey called life, I’m left feeling very anxious about sponsoring a women in the Congo of Africa and having enough money to give to a neighbor in need. The terrible tragedy along the Gulf Coast – many of the towns and historical sites I traveled through as a young child and teenager – has nearly broken my heart. What to do - what can I do? I have no extra funds to give during my start-up months of TexaCali Wine Co. Man, I woke up this morning and was immediately called to help. I spent the morning with Henley (my 8 yr old black lab) visiting homeless kids and old folks here in the Dallas area – I was overwhelmed by all the kindness I saw from folks living in Texas. It really drove my thoughts throughout the rest of the day...

Since last week I’ve received dozens of emails from restaurants, friends and acquaintances promoting a way to give back – well, God bless everyone who has, it’s so amazing to see so many generous and unselfish families and businesses in Texas putting those who are less fortunate first. God I wish I could give more.

I struggle with my own financial needs vs. so many people not only in America but throughout the world who need support from people like me who have the opportunity, freedom and God given ability to pay the bills and create commerce. I feel blessed to have a strong streak of “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” in my soul. Some days I don’t even feel like smiling, but I know I owe it to my “blessing” to keep on keepin’ on, to wake up each morning and make the most of each day. Living Strong.

I’m left with an image each night as I struggle to sleep in my own comfortable bed, many of the people rescued and waiting for our help in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast areas and Texas shelters are wearing the yellow bands around their scrawny wrists for Lance Armstrong’s “Live Strong” organization. Many of these fellow Americans who are now homeless gave to a charitable cause before the disaster – with conviction. My hope is that they continue to wear these bracelets as a reminder, that they too are living strong. These yellow bands now serve 2 purposes for thousands.

Whether helping a woman and her children in a hideous African war or just showing up at a shelter to listen to a lonely grandfather - I urge each of us to take time out of our normal weekly to-do's and help those who are not so lucky in life. We should thank each one of them for their inspiration to us - staying strong and living stronger for those less fortunate during this horrific U.S. disaster and world wars going on all over our planet Earth. -Ali

90 Days...

Well TexaCali Wine Co. has wrapped up the first 90 days of official business. And business ROCKS! I can honestly say that none of the wines and sake I represent are "stinkers". I'm so proud to show them each day - whether it's a customer shopping at Central Market that loves Malbec or a buyer in a rural town that has never tasted Torrontes to seeing a set of eyes light-up over their first sip of premium sake.

Emotionally, I know I've made a great decision starting this venture - my heart and brain are soo connected when it comes to the promotion of great wine in the state of Texas. Thanks to all of you that have supported my dream "start-up" within this the low-tech, old-school wine industry. Good people hang together.

Cheers to the many great wines of TexaCali Wine Co.! - Ali

'02 Cloverdale Ranch Cab VS '01 Silver Oak Alexander Valley

I'm keeping this one short and to the point.

10 out of 10 Sommeliers and Wine Buyers chose the Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon in quality and flavor over Silver Oak in a recent blind tasting conducted in North Texas. Cloverdale Ranch $24.99 - Silver Oak $65

Need I say more? Cheers - Ali

Just say no to Kraft cheese slices...

Anytime you are visiting the Sonoma Wine Country - please stop by the Cheese Shop of Healdsburg and say hello to my dear friend Doralice! Girl Power at it's finest, she just bought the legendary shop and has joined the ranks of running her own business.

Also, for all you in need of incredible cheese and other culinary delights - check out www.doraliceimports.com Both Dorlalice and I are getting along fabulously with the boss these days!!! HA!

By the way - her Pepper Jack from Equador goes incredibly well with the Luca Malbec!!!
YUM! Ali

Summer 2005 Texas Travel

I know I know – “no new blog updates, why?”. One hint, I-35. I’ve covered the state over the last few weeks. From Frisco to Galveston and everywhere in between, is where TexaCali Wine Company has been leaving a mark. While most folks are off vacationing and visiting their summer homes in paradise I’ve been making sure there is great wine to sip upon their return.

Here’s a break-down of what is HOT but chillin’ in the Texas summer heat:

Ft. Worth: Loica Sauvignon Blanc, Loica Carmenère, Olivet Lane Chardonnay, Susana Balbo Malbec, Luca Chardonnay, Susana Balbo Crios Rose of Malbec, Cloverdale Ranch Cab and Merlot.

Dallas: Susana Balbo Crios, Dominique Portet Sauvignon Blanc, Tikal Patriota, Luca Chardonnay, Pellegrini Unoaked Chardonnay, Tierra Zinfandel and Encierra (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carmenère and Merlot.) which is making it on wine lists all over town.

Plano: Susana Balbo Crios, Dominigue Portet Shiraz and Cabernet, Nandu Malbec Susana Balbo Malbec, La Posta Malbec and Pellegrini Sauvingon Blanc.

Southlake: La Posta Malbec, Mapema Tempranillo

Waco: Susana Balbo Budini, Crios Rose of Malbec, La Posta Bonarda, Pellegrini Unoaked Chardonnay and Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet.

Austin: Mukune - Root of Innocence Sake (a big shot out to Deepak & Rohit!), Pellegrini Cloverdale Ranch Merlot, Pellegrini Olivet Lane Pinot Noir, Susana Balbo Crios (Central Market Westgate has the motherload!)and a new Sake flight of Hawk in the Heavens and Southern Beauty at Trulucks!

Houston: Sake SAKE SAKE!! Luca Chardonnay, Luca Syrah, Susana Balbo Crios – Torrontes, Rose of Malbec and Cabernet, Dominique Portet Sauvignon Blanc, Olivet Lane Pinot Noir, Nandu Malbec, Budini Cabernet and Chardonnay! Cheers! Ali

Nonstop Wine Talk

So I just wrapped up a full week and weekend of wine meetings, education seminars and in-store wine tastings. Such is the life of running a wine brokerage. I loved every single second of it! I must shout out to the good folks in Fort Worth for enthusiastically tasting and wanting more this weekend! Keep your secret among yourselves – so many of you have a sincere passion for all things wine - toast to you all!

Here’s the list of wine introduced, tasted and sipped over the past week or so – not a single wimp in the bunch!

2002 Cloverdale Ranch Merlot - forget Loser Miles – he is sooo not worthy of ever sipping this Alexander Valley gem! Velvety good.

2002 Cloverdale Ranch Cabernet – eyes popped and lips smacked “oh my gosh – this is incredible”, enough said.

2002 Olivet Lane Estate Pinot Noir– oh lovely fruit and amazing aromas, a gentle beauty.

2001 Olivet Lane Estate Chardonnay – eyes closed you can see the vines of Montrachet!

2003 Pellegrini Russian River “Eight Cousins Vineyard” Zin – Shh! Texas has the last few cases of this little devil – it’ll make you drink more than a glass a day!

2004 Dominique Portet Sauvignon Blanc - oh, this is truly the best $19.99 Aussie white to be found in Texas, one sip and you’ll want a case full (true story!).

2004 Loica Carmenere and Sauvingnon Blanc – brand new to Texas and selling like crazy at Central Markets in Austin and Fort Worth. It’s a smaller project in Chile brought to you buy the great Portet family. Wow – this is my “pool wine” from now on!

2002 Gusto Malbec – Uncorked this Malbec open under the stars while listening to Ft. Worth’s great “Srank Finatra Band”. Complete with a 65 year-old drummer, saxophonist, bassist, pianist, trumpet player and guitar superstar this band rocked – but not as much as the Gusto. Chef Terry says “this wine is AWESOME, this will go with any wild game I shoot myself!”. Found only at Central Market Ft. Worth – oh but Chef Terry came in and bought the shelf out!

2005 Susana Balbo Torrontes - Anyone that likes white wine should give this amazing beauty a try. No kidding, it’s addictive - serve it cold and have a least 2 bottles chilled at all times!

Susana Balbo and Ben Marco wines - http://www.vineconnections.com/wines/susana_balbo.html
Over 6 current vintages were paired with steak dinners for 9 of the Texas’ most enthusiastic wine buyers. I cannot single out a any individual wine due to each one ROCKING. Susana Balbo is providing the world with incredible wine that is affordable as well as classic representation of each varietal. I predict Susana will be the most well known, eading female wine-maker in all of the world for a very long time! CHEERS - Ali

A Beautiful Woman

Interesting enough, there are still way too many wine collectors and consumers who believe fine wine is determined by the price tag. That’s like saying “a woman has to be made of money to be beautiful” or “Beauty is determined by ones’ bank account”. WHATEVER.

Of course there are incredible wines to be had with incredible price tags to match – always have been and will always be. BUT in this day and age, we as wine consumers have the advantage of spending less of our hard-earned dollars on OUTSTANDING wines from all over the world. JEEESH! I don’t do well with “wine-snootty-who-haws” – can you tell?!

TexaCali Wine Trail was brought to you today by the great makers of Tylenol – which is helping me with this nagging headache created by such jackasses who recently turned their noses up at wines that would have blown them away (and would have saved them a little more dough to spend on gasoline to fill their fancy cars with). CHEERS - Ali

Central Market Wine Directors

ARE TOTAL STUDS! Seriously, I've just returned from visiting the San Antonio and Austin stores and have now met the entire wine team for the first time. I am thrilled to know each and every store has more than amazing leadership in the wine department - each department is unique in style and character but run with amazing finesse and with an acute sense of professional wine buying. Too bad I never had a chance to get to know everyone while among this team, it's such a miss that we couldn't have spent more time with each other to synergize and KICK ASS for the sake of providing great wine to Central Market customers. All in all, everyone makes the most of it - and rocks - there is no other team on earth that shines any brighter among thousands of wine bottles, even if they have to shuffle, rebuild and make room for "gourmet" items that are not made from the GREAT GRAPE! Hats off to JR, GEORGE, SETH, SEAN, EZRA, IAN and MARTIN!!! - Ali

Wine from the Heart

Pellegrini Wines are back in the HOUSE! I’m so excited to “relaunch” this portfolio of delicious wine for all to enjoy. In a nutshell, Bob Pellegrini has kept it “real” for over 30 years and it is a pure joy to represent his lovely wine throughout Texas! Summer offerings through Prestige Wine Cellars include…

2001 Olivet Lane Russian River Valley Chardonnay

2002 Olivet Lane Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

2002 Cloverdale Ranch Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

2002 Cloverdale Ranch Alexander Valley Merlot

2003 Pellegrini Russian River Valley Zinfandel

2004 Pellegrini Lake County Sauvignon Blanc

2004 Pellegrini Russian River Unoaked Chardonnay

Each wine is uniquely it’s own and one could build an entire wine list that includes all of the Pellegrini items. Mr. Pellegrini is one of few winery owners who keeps a humble heart while producing world class wines – I can’t hardly wait to have him back in the Texas market to meet a whole new generation of Pellegrini Wine fans! Cheers - Ali

Wrapping Up the Month of May

Oh where did the month of May go? Liquid time - sipping wine with amazing people in Texas is where May slithered away!

Bottle of the Month goes to.....2002 Tikal Patriota! What a beautiful, elegant and velvety wine, 60% Bonarda 40% Malbec. I expected a tannin' bomb, but this baby was smooth with a finish that lingered for minutes.

Retailer of the Month goes to...well, I'd have to give it to 2 fascinating Houston accounts.
1) Vino 100 - a new shop run by Paul Drennan that specializes in 100 great wines under $25. The layout is very cozy and inviting, and I'd have to say that his selection is first rate! They are brand new to Texas - but seem to be off to a great start!

2) and certainly not second to anyone though is Specs. While working for K&L - Specs was our largest competitor in the Houston area. Last week I walked the many isles in their main downtown store for the first time and was blown away with their in-depth selection. As a true wine marketeer, I was a little giddy while meeting the sales staff, very impressed with the longetivty of the staff and knowledge base. It's so comforting to know my products are well represented to thousands of Houston's best wine shoppers.

So I'm absolutely loving my new gig, helping others is the most fulfilling aspect of my life, I'm proud of to have the confidence in keeping this my main focus. Stay tune, exciting announcement coming soon!!! Ali

Week 2

Waco, Texas 2005. Thursday was a total flashback to my college days – sans the Bartles & Jaymes! I walked right into Ridgewood Country Club at high noon to introduce myself as a former “deck club manager” to their new young Chef Soren from Denmark. Denmark to Waco – well sure beats my TexaCali story, welcome to Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil – Texas style. Waco is a hoot, complete with 2 quaint wine bistros, 3 family owned wine and liquor stores (my personal favorite Bad Bear Liquors) and a hopping wine department at the HEB which is run by long time Wine Aficionado April Allison. Everyone knows everyone in Waco. Look forward to spending more time with folks who love wine…my birthplace. Off to host a 50 person wine tasting this evening for a church group in Coppell - God Bless Texas. - Ali

Mendoza girl & her dog 

Week 1

So have officially finished up the first week of TexaCali Wine Co. So friggin' cool. While working for Central Market over the past year I wasn't able to be a true wine person, I spent most of my time managing "the system", managing "up" and managing a thousand other things that must go on when responsible for a 6 million dollar wine department in a great big fancy grocery store!

What impressed me most this past week - I was apart of a 2-hour wine briefing for Goody-Goody on the Tikal and Luca brands I'm representing. What a sense of relief to hear and meet people in Dallas that "get wine". The room of wine managers and sales folks were so impressed with the quality of wine being poured to them - all agreed that the Luca & Tikal wines were some of the most elegant wine ever tasted. I concur! I'm grateful to know each person at this account, good people who just want to tell others want they believe to be great wine. That simple. Cheers! Ali