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VOLUME
3, ISSUE
2, APRIL 2008
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Viognier and Vouvray: Misunderstood But Extremely Delicious
In a white wine market dominated by Chardonnay and Pinot
Grigio, what is a consumer to do for variety? Where are the medium dry,
approachable wines that appeal to the masses? Well, two “V” wines, Viognier and
Vouvray, are varietals that all white wine drinkers can appreciate. They fill
the void between sweet whites like Riesling and dry wines like Chardonnay.
Viognier tends to be a medium- to full-bodied white wine.
It has tropical fruit flavors and a creamy feel. While it is mainly used for
blending in many regions—specifically the Rhone region of southern France—it is
also excellent on its own merit. The main attraction of Viognier is its
powerful, rich and complex aroma. It has apricot, orange blossom and melon
characteristics. Whether it is blended with other grape varietals or tried on
its own, Viognier is a wine that should be tasted.
Vouvray is a wine named from the subregion of France. The
grape varietal used in this wine is Chenin Blanc. Similar in taste to the White
Zinfandel of today, this wine was very popular in the 1970s. Vouvray, or
traditional Chenin Blanc, is an excellent medium-bodied wine. It is
characterized by a combination of nutty, floral and honey flavors and has a
balanced finish of medium acidity and mineral undertones. This is a great wine
for all wine drinkers—experienced or beginners.
Both Viognier and Vouvray are wines that can prove to be a
surprisingly delightful change of pace for white wine drinkers.
By Greg Keehr, Assistant Liquor Operations Director and
Manager of Edina Liquor—Grandview.
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Tequila's 'Golden' History
As the calendar nears May 5 and the planning of Cinco de Mayo celebrations goes
into full force, it is likely that many people will be drawn to tequila, which is
historically synonymous with the Mexican holiday.
This unique spirit is produced from the heart of the blue agave plant, native
to the western Mexican state of Jalisco. Natives of Jalisco produced tequila in
its earliest form prior to the 1500s, long before Hispanic explorers entered the
area. Over time, tequila changed and evolved into its modern form. Modern tequila
was first mass produced in the 1800s and was North America’s first distilled and
commercially produced drink. It continues to be made primarily in the same region
of Mexico, near what is now the City of Tequila, in several different varieties.
- Blanco or Plata (white or silver) – Un-aged white tequila
- Oro (gold) – Un-aged white tequila with coloring to resemble aged tequila
- Reposado (rested) – Aged between two months and a year in oak barrels
- Anejo (aged) – Aged between one and three years in oak barrels
- Maduro (extra aged) – Aged at least three years in oak barrels
High-end tequila is made from 100 percent blue agave, usually resulting in a
smoother drink. Less expensive tequila is made from a combination of agave and distilled
spirits, which usually gives the tequila more of a “bite.” As tequila ages in oak
barrels, it becomes darker in color. The aging of tequila tends to smooth out the
harsh characteristics of the un-aged spirit.
Edina Liquor carries more than 60 varieties of tequila in its stores, so whether
you’re looking for tequila for margaritas, shots or any other drinks, we will be
happy to match one to your needs. Ask us for a recommendation the next time you
stop by.
By Greg Keehr, Assistant Liquor Operations Director and Manager of Edina Liquor—Grandview.
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Kunde “Nu” Chardonnay 2006: Absolutely no oak is
used in aging this wine—and it shows! A beautiful aroma with flavors of pear,
pineapple and a small taste of lemon zest make for a memorable, fruit-forward
glass of Chardonnay. Pair with tuna, scallops or crab. $15.99
Chateau Ste. Michelle Nellie’s Garden Dry Rose 2006:
Made from Washington syrah grapes, this rose pulls off a superb balancing act
between beautiful strawberry and raspberry flavors, and has a dry, yet polished
finish. Pull this wine out for spring barbeques! $10.99
Zeal Sauvignon Blanc 2007: Typical New Zealand
sauvignon blanc flavors of gooseberry, tropical fruits and lemon zest are abound
in this well-crafted example. The excellent acidity pairs well with seafood,
salads and spicy Thai dishes. $13.99
Montes “Limited Selection” Pinot Noir: This is a
versatile and delicious pinot from Chile. It features the cherry and strawberry
fruit flavors that pinot is known for, along with a touch of smoke and spice for
a lingering finish. Great with grilled chicken breasts and other casual fare.
$15.99
Big House “The Lineup” GSM 2006: A rich blend of
grenache, syrah and mourvedre grapes from the central coast of California.
Grenache gives it a delicate raspberry flavor; Syrah supplies blackberry, spice
and depth; and mourvedre adds body and a subtle truffle flavor. $12.99
Dave Tomko is Assistant Manager of Edina Liquor – Southdale.
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2007 Year in Review
2007 proved to be another successful year for Edina Liquor.
Overall, sales were up 3 percent from 2006. Individually, our Grandview store
reported a 7 percent increase and revenue from our 50th & France store was up 3
percent. Revenue from our Southdale store was actually down a bit in 2007, but
the decrease can be attributed, in part, to nearby Target being closed for most
of the year.
Wine sales were up 5 percent and beer sales were up 4.25
percent from 2006. Overall, our three stores generate 45 percent of their sales
from wine, 25 percent from beer and 27 percent from liquor. Our wine-, liquor-
and beer-of-the-month programs continue to out perform all of our other
promotions combined.
In 2008, Edina Liquor will continue to offer great service,
selection and prices. We work hard to bring in the quality products that our
customers desire at competitive prices, and we are always looking for that new,
hot item —whether it is wine, liquor or beer.
2008 Taste of Edina
On May 1, the Edina Chamber will hold its annual Taste of
Edina at the Centennial Lakes Park Centrum from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Attendees will
have a chance to sample food from many of our local restaurants as well as wine
and beer from Edina Liquor. Last year, we poured more than 75 different wines
and over 15 different beers.
Tickets to the event can be purchased from the Chamber for
$25, but a coupon for $5 off is available from any of our three Edina Liquor
locations. Previously, the event was held in the fall at Southdale Center, but
was moved this year to the spring in order to take advantage of the space and
amenities of Centennial Lakes, along with (we hope) better weather. For
information or to purchase tickets, call 952-806-9060.
Steve Grausam is the Liquor Operations Director. He can
be reached by sending an email to sgrausam@ci.edina.mn.us.
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