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The vineyards of the Casanuova delle Cerbaie firm are located at approximately 300 meters above sea level on land dating back to the Eocene period characterized by calcareous, marl, argillaceous and conglomerate rocks. The prevailing south-west exposition of the vineyards allows them to get the best sunlight throughout the day. Moreover, these vineyards grow on the prestigious hill of Montosoli and extend to the foot of the hill where Montalcino stands, thereby benefiting from a particularly moderate climate since they are sheltered by natural barriers on the North and West from the freezing north wind or extremely hot winds like the sirocco. The nature of the land and its enviable position thus make it possible to obtain excellent performances, enriching the Brunello results in terms of quality and to enrich the wines produced in this area with a of particular variety of fragrances.

Recently, we had the opportunity to taste through a multitude of wines from the Cerbaie estate at our first annual Pizza and Brunello dinner at Lucali.  From the '07 Rosso di Montalcino to the '03 Brunello Reserva, we were all impressed with the quality of these great wines.  Therefore, it is only suiting to make the Cerbaie Rosso di Montalcino our wine of the week at a special price, so that all of you can taste the greatness.

Pick up a bottle or two (or three or four) this week at $20 instead of the usual $25. You won't be disappointed.

This week Braithe, our newest member of our staff, shares her pick for a great Piedmontese Chardonnay...

This is a funky and innovative wine, much like the winemaker Valentino Migliorini. Migliorini passed away in 2007 but is remembered for changing the wine landscape in Barolo. He was one of Piedmont’s most profound agents of transformation. Migliorini’s larger-than-life personality won acceptance in a region most resistant to change, and his portfolio of wines from the Rocche dei Manzoni estate inspired many of Piedmont’s great winemakers to re-evaluate Barolo and think beyond the Nebbiolo grape. L’Angelica Chardonnay is an example of his innovative style. A departure from the traditional wines of the area, the L’Angelica is made with 100% Chardonnay grapes from his most famous vineyard located in the locality of Santo Stefano di Perno.

The Santo Stefano vineyard is considered one of the most important and historical ‘crus’ of Barolo. Facing south to south-east, the land here is formed by layers of very compact gray marl alternating with layers of yellow-red embedded sand. Rocche dei Manzoni uses small French barrique in the fermentation process to create a highly concentrated flavor of the varietal and a strong, structured wine. The small French barrels also impart exceptional roundness and velvety tannins.

I enjoy this wine because it’s a unique Chardonnay, and I love Valentino Migliorini and his rebellious style. The L’Angelica is a very elegant wine with golden hues, aromas of golden apple and elderflower. This wine can age in your cellar and still be going strong 10 – 12 years later. Regardless if you drink it now or 5 years from now, this wine is sure to impress. The palate is dry and full bodied, even slightly oxidized with a hint of licorice, almonds, and honey. ($28)

This week's pick is courtesy of Karl Wurst, our spirits and sake buyer extraordinaire!

The Willett Distillery was built shortly after the repeal of Prohibition on a hilltop outside of Bardstown, Kentucky by brothers Thompson and Johnny Willett. Over the years it has gone through some major economic ups-and-downs. From the mid-to-late eighties, however, their fortunes have been on the upswing, starting with a huge cult following of their whiskeys in the Japanese market. As small-batch and single barrel whiskeys have come to be more appreciated in the United States, the Willett Distillery has grown, created some new products, and created a strong following among whiskey enthusiasts. Their bourbons, bottled under the name Kentucky Bourbon Distillers, include store favorites Rowan’s Creek and Noah’s Mill.

Recently introduced to New York, The Willett Distillery Straight Rye Whiskey is a very small production offering at an extraordinarily reasonable price.

Aged for four years in hand selected white oak barrels, each bottle is hand bottled and numbered. Bottled at 110 Proof, this is a rye whiskey that will keep you warm as chilly autumn breezes begin to blow in. That being said, it is not excessively hot or alcohol tasting. Instead the Willett Rye is rich, earthy and dry with a robust, black pepper spice on the finish.

Whether it is enjoyed as a sipping whiskey or as a component in an amazing cocktail, it is a fantastic choice. ($38)

Welcome to our new weekly posting for staff picks! Check back weekly for favorites from your favorite BWE staff.

This week, Jen shares one of her favorite wines for fall.

Gewurztraminer from Albert Boxler - Alsace, France

Albert Boxler is a 300-year-old family winery in the small town of Niedermorschwihr, now run by Jean Boxler, 31, who made his first vintage in 1995.

The domaine is small and comprised of Jean, his wife, his parents, and three workers. The Boxlers live and work in a house and winery built in 1619; the vineyards include parts of the famous Grand Cru vineyards, Sommerberg and Brand. In fact, 80%of their land is Grand Cru classification(amazing for Alsace).

Jean's style is one of firm acidity. His favorite varietal is Riesling, followed by deep-textured, flavorful Gewurztraminer.The grapes are all grown organically.

Boxler says his wines are "neither traditional nor modern. My style is natural—nature makes the wine, not me.This is not to please the customer, but to work with the land and keep it healthy. This is the old traditional."

The Boxler Gewurztraminer is a thing of beauty and a truly special wine to be enjoyed any time of year. I especially love gewürztraminers in the fall—there is something about the texture and the pure spice on the palate that reminds me of cooler weather, richer food, and cozy sweatshirts.

Pure, light, lychees on nose with a hint of rose petals. A full, luscious, palate with a touch of sweetness that is lifted by a racy acidity. What a great wine to enjoy by itself or with some good spicy food. ($28)

Check back often for entries from your favorite BWE employees.