Sunday, March 30, 2008

Brown Bag Wine Tasting -- April 2, 2008

No foolin'. We're having a Brown Bag Wine Tasting this month. No, you won't be required to bring your own wine. We're going to try something a little different by keeping the wines a secret until near the end of the tasting. We'll still taste 3 reds and 3 whites, and we'll still provide descriptive wine tasting notes; however, the names of the wines won't be included and the wines will be tightly tucked into little brown bags until the time of "big unveiling."
We won't keep the Guest Pourer a secret, though. This month we are pleased to have Ann Hoffman as our pourer. Ann is the new Publisher of The Daily Advance. For those of you who haven't yet met her, this would be the perfect opportunity to demonstrate Elizabeth City's southern hospitality and welcoming nature by stopping by to say, "hello."

Friday, March 28, 2008

March 28, 2008 -- Christopher Palestrant

End your month with a new artist at The City Wine Sellar. Christopher Palestrant will set the stage with his boogie, ballads and Broadway act. The multi-talented Chris will also play up some Billy Joel and maybe a little Elton John, as well as a few folksy tunes and original. It sounds like he will certainly cover the gamut.Music from 7:00-10:00 pm. Deli fare served until 9:00 pm. Non-smoking inside venue.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

March 21, 2008 -- Jazz with "Connected"

Join us Friday night at The Sellar Wine Bar (located inside The City Wine Sellar) for an evening of Jazz with "Connected." Connected will delight you with a variety of jazz music, standard to contemporary. Come join us and be entertained by the talented trio of Wayne James, Dennis Figgs, and Ellard Forrester.Entertainment is from 7-10 pm. Regular deli menu items served from 6-9 pm. The Sellar Wine Bar is a non-smoking venue. Smoking permitted in the cafe seating area.
Check out the band at www.dwconnected.com

Thursday, March 13, 2008

March 17th Beer Tasting -- 6:00-7:30 pm

Betcha never tasted a Sour Apple Honey Cinnamon Ale! You'll have an opportunity to do so on Monday evening, March 17th (coincidentally, St. Patrick's Day). We're having a home brew beer tasting in cooperation with Elizabeth City Brewing Company. In addition to the interesting Sour Apple Honey Cinnamon Ale, you can try an Irish Pale Ale, a Clover Porter, an Indian Brown ale, an Ein Bien Bitte Bier, and a Kilt Lifter. Personally, I can't wait to check out that last one. Tasting will be held from 6:00-7:30 pm. Light appetizers will be served. RSVP Requested. Call 335-1163 for more info.

Monday, March 10, 2008

March 14, 2008 -- BC of the Drednecks

Keep rocking in March with live music with BC at The City Wine Sellar. BC will keep your toes tapping with rock, reggae, blues, folk, and a few unique originals. You can usually hear BC playing with his band, The Dreadnecks, at such Outer Banks venues as The Brewing Station, Port O' Call, Chili Peppers and The Beach Bread Company. BC offers a CD of his band's tunes for only $10.00
Music from 7:00-10:00 pm; Deli fare served until 9:00 pm.

Beer Tasting March 17, 2008

You seriously can't miss this lucky tasting! The guys from Elizabeth City Brewing LLC will be brewing at least five batches of home brews for us to try. I can tell you from experience, they know what they're doing. And it's on St. Patrick's Day, no less. So, put on those green underwear and sham-rock your hineys on down to The City Wine Sellar on Monday, March 17th. 6:00-7:30 pm. RSVP requested, please. 252-335-1163.
Check out Elizabeth City Brewing's web site at
http://www.ecitybrew.com/

Other March Entertainers

Jazz with Connected -- March 21, 2008
Boogie, Ballads & Broadway with
Christopher Palestrant -- March 28, 2008

Further Adieu -- March 4, 2008

Monday, March 3, 2008

Chuck Hodges Friday Night, March 7, 2008

He's a little bit country. He's a little bit rock 'n roll! More specifically, "progressive modern rock and alternative country." The result is a "bluesy-folksy, roots-rockish, guitar-centric sound." Everyone who hears Chuck falls in love with his laid back style. His music has a way of making you feel like all is right with the world.
Chuck will play from 7:00-10:00 pm. Deli fare served until 9:00 pm. Call 252-335-1163 for more info.
Get more information about Chuck at www.chuckhodges.com

The No-Cork Wine Tasting with Guest Pourer Jamie Koch -- March 5, 2008 (6:00-7:30 pm) --

Remember Boone's Farm wine? What do you remember most about it? How "economical" it was; that you could find it at some of the very best gas stations in town; or those fancy screw caps that required no cork screw (which was a good thing, 'cause at that age, who really knew how to use one anyway)?
Strawberry Hill aside, I bring up Boone's Farm because I want to point out the fact that our psyche many times makes the automatic linkage between screw caps and cheap (i.e., bad) wine. We need to overcome this mental hurdle. 95% of wines purchased are consumed within 24 hours. So, the argument that corks are necessary for proper aging isn't a convincing one.
At our March wine tasting, we will try to help you conquer your fear of screw cap wine by offering a selection of quality "non-corked" wines. No Boone's Farm allowed.
Our Guest Pourer will be Jamie Koch, Membership Director of the YMCA. 6:00-7:30 pm. $10 per person. Light appetizers served. RSVP Requested, please.

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Dr. Tom Vinick Friday, February 29, 2008

Tom Vinick (aka Dr. Tom) will be on center stage this Friday, February 29th, at The City Wine Sellar. His genre is 70s cover tunes. (Sounds A LOT better than "oldies" doesn't it!) You'll be tapping those toes and shimmying in your seats, guaranteed. I won't even protest if you want to do a little dancin' in the aisles. So, say farewell to February and Leap on downtown to The City Wine Sellar to celebrate Leap Year 2008. Call 252-335-1163 for more information.

Monday, February 18, 2008

Joe Gosman -- Friday, February 22, 2008 -- 7:00-10:00 pm

I cannot tell a lie. Joe Gosman is awesome! He'll be jamming Friday night at The City Wine Sellar, Bakery, & Wine Bar. The usual time...7:00-10:00 pm. Joey's a favorite, so come early and come ready to have a good time! Check out his web site at www.joegosman.com. Call 335-1163 for more information.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Chuck Hodges -- February 15, 2008

Extend your Valentine's Day celebration into the weekend with the sounds of Chuck Hodges on Friday night. Chuck will unchain some melodies (likely with the help of some friends) and steal your hearts with his talents. Chuck's playlist includes some classic rock, modern pop, blues, and original favorites. Music 7:00-10:00 pm; Deli Fare served until 9:00. You can listen to or buy either of his CDs on his website (http://www.chuckhodges.com/) and at The City Wine Sellar on Friday night. Call 335-1163 for more info.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Decon Blues Friday, February 8, 2008

Photo by Boris Anthony via Flickr.com

"The blues was peculiar, as music borne of dispair, which had the effect of making people happy." Bruce Eder
It's Deacon Blues (aka Adam Nixon) at The City Wine Sellar this Friday (February 8th) from 7:00-10:00 pm. The Deacon is the perfect entertainment for those blues lovers who are into acoustic and electric blues. There will be something for everyone, guaranteed! 7:00-10:00 pm. No cover. Check him out at www.uphilltheband.com

Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Sexy Wine Tasting -- February 6, 2008, 6:00-7:30 pm

Don't be shy. We promise to behave at this month's wine tasting
(or at least TRY to!). Join us in tasting six sexy wines in honor of Valentine's Day. The tasting notes say it all. Tasting begins at 6:00 pm (till 7:30 pm). $10 per person. RSVP Requested.
“Falling in love consists merely in uncorking the imagination and bottling the common-sense.” Helen Rowland, A Guide to Men. This is such an appropriate quote, both for the love of men and for the love of wine. Wine is all about common sense…It’s about what YOU like, unimpeded by the pressure you sometimes face to feign enjoyment of a wine simply because an “expert” says you should. Relax. Take a sip. If it tastes good, sit back and enjoy the experience. If it doesn’t please your palate, either spit it out or don’t take another sip. It’s as simple as that. My personal recommendation for either true love or the love of wine: Don’t settle, don’t compromise your tastes. Do the one you love. –Debbie
Special thanks to Susan Hoskins, Executive Director of the Albemarle Area United Way, our Guest Pourer for this evening, and to Lisa VanCuren of Empire Distributors who is here almost every month. Thanks, also to Mutual Distributing.

--Virgin Vines Chardonnay, 2006, CA – “Cool and crisp with a serious rebellious side. With an ultra clean finish, the perfect wine to serve your love in a romantic outdoor setting, or to order for that soon to be ‘new friend’ standing at the end of the bar.” “Round and smooth with a light toasty flavor complemented by fruity flavors of lemon, vanilla and honeydew melon.”
--Sincerity Sauvignon Blanc, 2005, Casablanca Valley, Chile (an Organic wine) – “Made exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc grapes biodynamically grown on Sincerity’s Cordillera vineyard estate in Chile’s Casablanca Valley, Sincerity Sauvignon Blanc is pale straw in color. It offers a classic herbaceous bouquet, crisp citrus flavors, and a lingering finish. It is a fine match for seafood, white meats, and a wide range of Asian fare. It also makes a wonderful aperitif.”
--Screw Kappa Napa Chardonnay, 2005, Napa Valley, CA – “Honeysuckle and Toasted Vanilla Oak Notes, Tropical Fruit, Rich and Balanced.” This wine has “a fruit-driven style, with vibrant, moderately rich apple, citrus, spice, quince and honeysuckle. Finishes with a touch of smoke and caramel apple flavors.”
--Folie à Deux Ménage àTrois Red, 2006 – “This wine exposes the fresh, ripe, jam-like fruit that is the calling card of California wine. Three saucy grapes make up the blend. Zinfandel adds a juicy character, Merlot mellows and Cabernet adds backbone. Forward, spicy and soft, this delicious dalliance makes the perfect trio.” (What were YOU thinking?!)
--Alexander Valley Sin Zin Zinfandel, 2006, CA – “A wild and crazy zin, the '06 Alexander Valley Vineyard Sin Zin breaks out with tasty red raspberry flavors that linger long on the palate.” “A bright, expressive nose, bursting with red fruits and crushed black pepper and a palate loaded with raspberries, strawberries, and black pepper.”
--(oops) Cabernet Carmenère, Valle Central, Chile – Referred to as the “Gentle Giant,” this wine is “a big robust wine with deep ruby color, full of rich, ripe black fruit and hints of vanilla; savory and smooth….” “This Cabernet Sauvignon’s graceful style makes it quite versatile, complementing anything from traditional big, juicy steak to grilled chicken, ribs, and even salmon. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Carmenere.”
Added Bonus:
--Cristalino Rose Brut Cava, Spain – “Made by the traditional method such that second fermentation takes place in the bottle. The Rose Brut Cava is refreshing, fruity, smooth and easy to drink. It is perfect as an aperitif and pairs well with almost any foods.”

Monday, January 28, 2008

CJ & Smooth Jazz -- Friday, February 1st, 2008

Ease into February with an instrumental evening of smooth jazz, rock and country favorites by Christopher "CJ" Grey. CJ has been a guitarist for 27 years and a member of the US Coast Guard for 18 years. Chris will play from 7:00-10:00 pm. This is CJ's first time playing at The City Wine Sellar, so come on out and show him a great time! Enjoy dinner until 9:00 pm.

Valentine's Shopping Party -- February 7-8, 2008

Whether you call it a purse, a clutch, a handbag, or a pocketbook, you should call it a shopping party on Thursday and Friday, February 7th (4:00-7:00 pm) and February 8th (10:00 am-4:00 pm) at The City Wine Sellar. Sylvia, Mary Alice, and Jack just returned from a shopping spree in New York City, and will have some great new products for you! Check out their awesome products, including fashion jewelry and other unique gifts.
Ladies, come in on Thursday evening, create your "wish list" and then send your Sweetie back on Friday to pick out the "perfect gift" for Valentine's Day. Light appetizers served on Thursday evening. Wine Bar will be open -- Cash bar.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Jazz & Blues with Cool 21, Friday, January 25, 2008

In case you missed these talented guys last time, here's another opportunity, you lucky ducks! This group has a completely different vibe from many of the entertainers booked at The City Wine Sellar. It's very easy to sit back, close your eyes, and pretend that you are on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, LA.
Music from 7:00-10:00 pm; Enjoy dinner till 9:00. Wine & beer served until closing.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Live Music with BC -- Friday, January 18, 2008

Keep rocking in January with live music by BC at The City Wine Sellar. BC will keep your toes tapping with rock, reggae, blues, folk, and a few unique originals. You can usually hear BC playing with his band, The Dreadnecks, at such Outer Banks venues as The Brewing Station, Port O' Call, Chili Peppers and The Beach Bread Company. BC offers a CD of his band's tunes for only $10.00BC will play from 7-10 pm. Regular deli menu items served from 6-9 pm. Non-smoking inside venue. Smoking allowed in outside cafe.RSVP nice, but not necessary.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Tour of Italy Tasting Notes -- January 9, 2008

It’s almost impossible to do a comprehensive “Tour of Italy” wine tasting because there are So Many great wines! There are four levels of Italian wine classification, modeled after the French system. DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita, or “Controlled and Guaranteed Origin”) is the highest level of quality with only 24 regions claiming this status. All DOCG wines are submitted for both lab and tasting approval by a professional panel. DOC status (Denominazions di Origine Controllata, or “Controlled Origin”) is the core of Italy’s classification with approximately 300 zones and more than 600 wines that claim it. DOC is not as strictly controlled, yet the status plays an important role in establishing a quality benchmark and elevating the overall quality of Italian wines produced. IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) classification originated from producers who wanted more freedom to experiment. This classification allows producers to grow varietals not allowed under the DOC/DOCG system. These wines have come to be known as “Super Tuscans” and many are among the most sought-after wines in the world. The Vina da Tavola (Table Wine) is the lowest level of classification in the Italian system and accounts for the largest portion of Italian wines produced. Most of these wines are not exported. (Info provided by Da Vinci winery, sourced from “Certified Specialist of Wine Study Guide” published by the Society of Wine Educators, 2006.)
Special thanks to Mike and Mary Andres, our Guest Pourers for this evening, and to Albemarle Distributors, Tryon Distributors, and Empire Distributors. --Debbie

  • Ca’ Montini Pinot Grigio, DOC, 2006, Trentino Region – Ca’ Montini wines are known and respected worldwide and served in the most exclusive restaurants. “Located in Marano di Valpolicella (Verona) in the heart of the ‘Amarone Classic’ production area, this winery has been producing premium wines since the early 1700s.” This Pinot Grigio is a “full-bodied, ripe and smooth wine with hints of almonds, hazelnuts, lemons, and apples.” It has the kind of layered, creamy complexity you would expect in a more expensive white wine from Alsace or Bergundy, France. Regular Price: $ 17.98 Tasting Price: $ 16.98
  • Tormaresca Chardonnay, ICT, 2005, Puglia (or Apulia) Region – This mostly flat winemaking region is located on the “heel” of the Italian peninsula. It produces more than a tenth of Italian agriculture and “regularly shifts position with Sicily” as the major wine producing region of the country. This wine is light yellow with greenish reflections with a persistent, fresh and flavorful scent. Rated 85 by Wine Spectator, this white has a “light apple and mineral character on the nose and follows through to a medium-bodied palate, with fresh acidity and a medium finish.” Regular Price: $ 13.99 Tasting Price: $ 12.99
  • Da Vinci Chianti, DOCG, 2005, Tuscany Region – Not a Classico or a Reserva Chianti, but a great Chianti nonetheless. Made with grapes sourced entirely from within the Chianti area of the Tuscany Region, this wine has received an 87 rating from Wine Enthusiast, an 86 from Wine News, and an 89 from Wine Report. Da Vinci Chianti is “deep crimson in color with aromas of cherries and red fruit balanced by soft, round tannins.” To be a Chianti, grapes must be entirely sourced from any of the 8 sub-regions of Chianti and must be at least 75% Sangiovese. Regular Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Price $ 13.99
  • LaGaria Merlot, IGT, 2006, Sicilia Region – “The soft, elegant aroma and flavor that characterize this varietal are nature’s gift from the beautiful Mediterranean island of Sicily. This full-bodied, generous red wine offers excellent versatility with a wide variety of food.” Regular Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Price $ 13.99
  • Monte Antico Red Table Wine, IGT, 2004, Tuscany Region – This red is a blend of Sangiovese (85%), Cabernet (10%), and Merlot (5%). Rated 86 by Wine Spectator, it is a medium-bodied wine with bright acidity and a clean finish. It is fresh and fruity with plum and dried cherry Character. Regular Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Price $ 13.99
  • La Pisara Primitivo, IGT, 2003, Apulia Region – La Pisara wine is produced with 100% Primitivo grapes (Zinfandel’s Italian alias). “With an intense red color, this wine has a warm bouquet with rich notes of ripe red prunes and currants, dried hazelnuts, and figs, and hints of leather. The taste is full-bodied and powerful, yet pleasantly soft, warm, and nicely balanced with savory notes. Exceptionally robust and firmly structured.” Regular Price: $ 11.99 Tasting Price $ 10.99

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Tour of Italy Wine Tasting on January 9, 2008

Guest Pourers for January's tasting are none other than the well-respected and ever-popular Coast Guard couple, Mike and Mary Andres. Members of the community for almost three years now, Mike is a Captain in the U.S. Coast Guard and Commanding Officer of Air Station Elizabeth City. Mary, who is currently attending College of the Albemarle, is the bright and charming social butterfly of the family. We are SO excited to have them as our pourers for this month's tasting!

Join us on Wednesday, January 9th, from 6:00-7:30 pm for a Tour of Italy Tasting. From Chianti to Primitivo, we'll have something for everyone. Tasting notes will be posted by Tuesday the 8th, so check back for the inside scoop a day early.