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.

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.

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.

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

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Further Adieu -- Friday, January 4, 2008

Start 2008 with a bang by joining us at The City Wine Sellar for an evening of great music, dinner, and wine/beer. Further Adieu is a group for all ages. As versatile as they come, these guys can play anything! They'll entertain with some great cover tunes, some Beatles tunes, a little Bob Dylan, as well as a few originals. JJ Jernigan, Nick Simmons, Josh Quidley and Robbie Raper -- a group to remember! Check them out at furtheradieu.com. Entertainment from 7-10 pm. Regular deli menu items served from 6-9 pm.

Jazz & Blues with Cool 21 on Friday, December 28, 2007

It's the last Friday night of 2007! Can you believe it?! What better way to spend it than with Jazz & Blues tunes by Cool 21 at The City Wine Sellar? I sure can't think of one! Baxter Smith and a friend or two will start the entertainin' at 7:00 pm and will keep on playing until 10:00 pm. You can fill your belly until 9:00 and sip a liquid till at least 10:30 pm. Don't miss out!

Chuck Hodges Friday, December 21, 2007

'Twas the Friday before Christmas, and all through the house
People were whispering "The Hodgi's" coming, Wow, wow, wow!"
The preparations are being made, tables moved here and there
In hopes that Chuck and his friends soon would be here.
The wines are all nestled, the whites and the reds
The sandwiches are prepped, made with homemade breads.
So, come on out to the City Wine Sellar on Friday night
We guarantee a great time at this holiday highlight.
Music 7:00-10:00 pm; Dine until 9:00.

Joe Gosman -- December 14th

Joey's playing on Friday night, December 14th! Joe Gosman is a crowd-pleaser from the Tidewater VA area and performs at many venues in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach. He has become a very popular regular at the City Wine Sellar. He'll be here from 7:00-10:00 pm. Come early and have dinner with us (served 6:00-9:00 pm). The Sellar Wine Bar is a non-smoking inside venue; however, smoking is allowed in the cafe seating area.RSVP nice, but not necessary.
Come help celebrate Granny's Birthday!!!!

December 5th Tasting Notes. Guest Pourer Jennifer Palestrant

Preview the tasting notes for the December 5th Sparkling Wine Tasting at The City Wine Sellar. 6:00-7:30 pm. $10 per person. Please RSVP!

In Champagne, France it’s called Champagne; in other areas of France it’s Vins Mousseux; in Spain it’s Cava; in Italy it’s Spumanti; in Germany it’s Sekt; and in the US, it’s Sparking Wine. At our tasting, we’ll simply call it “bubbly.” So, you ask, why isn’t it ALL considered Champagne? Because wine makers are only allowed to label their bubbly “Champagne” when it is produced in the Champagne region of France and made in the classic “methode champenaise” tradition (two fermentations, with the second taking place in the bottle).

You should stop considering bubbly to be only a special occasion or holiday wine. It can certainly be enjoyed any time, any place, and for any occasion. In comparison to traditional “still” wines, bubblies have slightly higher acidity, are more delicately flavored, and have a lower alcohol content. If you like a sweeter bubbly, you should select a Sec (noticeably sweet), a Demi-Sec (very sweet), or a Doux (extremely sweet). If you prefer dry, choose an Extra Dry (slightly sweet), a Brut (dry, no sweetness), or a Brut nature (bone dry). With bubbles, size does matter. The smaller the bubbles and the longer they last in your glass, the higher the quality.
Special thanks to Jennifer Palestrant, our Guest Pourer for this evening, and to Lisa VanCuren from Empire Distributors. --Debbie

--Domaine St. Michelle NV Frizzante, Washington State – Fruity and lively taste, ending with a tinge of grapefruit. Notes of apples, pears, and candied apples. Try it with spicy Asian or Southwest fare. Also complements various egg dishes and desserts. Brunch anyone? Regular Price: $ 11.99 Tasting Price: $ 10.99
--Yellow Tail Sparkling, Australia – Yes, we’ve included one of those “critter” wines. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, you must try this sparkler. A blend of Semillon (72%), Traminer, Viognier, and Trebbiano, it is fresh and tropical, with a medium sweetness, and a refreshing, crisp finish. Perfectly paired with salads and light pasta dishes. Regular Price: $ 11.99 Tasting Price: $ 10.99
--Star Black Bubbles Shiraz, California – The oddity in our group, this bubbly is made with a Syrah grape in both French and American oak barrels. It is not fermented, but infused with bubbles. Be prepared for bold berries. Taste cherry pie and blackberry, with a strong nose of berries. Enjoy it with a variety of hors d’oeuvres. Regular Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Price $ 16.99
--Cristalino NV Brut Cava, Spain – This wine received a 91 Wine & Spirits rating. From the Cava region of Spain, it is clean, dry, medium-bodied, and crisp, with fruity tastes of citrus & apple, honey & toasty oak. You may even taste hints of cinnamon. Enjoy as an apéritif or with light seafood such as sole or grilled shrimp, chicken salad, and fruity desserts.
Regular Price: $ 9.99 Tasting Price $ 8.99
--Wolf Blass Yellow Label Brut, Australia – Another wine from “down under.” Described as having “complex aromas of fresh fruit and creamy yeast” which are “perfectly balanced on the nose.” On the palate…”green apple chardonnay flavours and strawberry Pinot Noir characters are complemented with a crisp, lively acidity.” Regular Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Price $ 14.99
--Nicolas Feuillatte, Champagne France – Made with a blend of Pinot Noir (50%), Pinot Meunier (30%) and Chardonnay (20%), this Champagne has a depth that only true Champagne can provide. Your palate will sing with the tastes of fruity pears and peaches and you’ll taste subtle hints of almond and vanilla. Regular Price: $ 34.99 Tasting Price $ 32.99

Be sure to ask about our future wine tastings…held monthly in The Sellar Wine Bar. $10.00 per person. Light hors d’oeuvres. Call 252-335-1163 for more information.***Special Holiday Gift – 2008 Wine Tasting Gift Certificates.***

Sparkle into December at our Wine Tasting on the 5th

It's official. It's a tradition. For the 3rd year, we've made the 12th month "sparkle" with our selection of sparkling wines at the City Wine Sellar's December wine tasting. We know you are busy at this time of year with all of those holiday parties, shopping, and decorating, but you definitely should make time to attend this popular tasting. At least six, maybe seven, different sparklers will be served. And if you know me...you know chocolate will be part of the equation.

A special bonus -- Our December Guest Pourer is none other than the new President of the Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Palestrant.

Dr. Tom Vinick on Friday, December 7, 2007

Don't miss super-entertainer, Dr. Tom Vinick, on Friday, December 7th. Dr. Tom hails from the Moyock area and plays "cool baby" 70s cover tunes. Come out for a night of entertainment that will have you singing and shimmying.

Wetting Down Mark Bruyere and Jim Martin

As a non-Coastie, I was unfamiliar with a "Wetting Down" event, but I am glad I was able to host one at The City Wine Sellar on November 16th. In the Coast Guard, when an officer is promoted, there's a big party! So, when Jim Martin was promoted to Captain and Mark Bruyere was promoted to Commander, friends and family gathered to congratulate them. Tons of fun!

Ron Nicodemus -- Friday November 23, 2007

You know you're itchin' to get out of the house. Come on, admit it. We promise we won't make you eat turkey leftovers, although you know we serve a mean Tom Turkey sandwich! We're simply inviting you out for a good time at The Sellar Wine Bar. Talented artist from the Outer Banks, Ron Nicodemus, will be playing at The City Wine Sellar this Friday, November 23rd, from 7:00-10:00 pm. In addition to some original songs, Ron's repertoire includes almost a hundred cover songs from the sixties to modern tunes. Check him out at www.myspace.com/ronnicodemus.