Join us Saturday for a taste of the rich explosive flavors of the French countryside.  We’ll be tasting a Pear Cider from Normandy, a mineral white from Touraine, a Bordeaux from each side of the river and a rich Syrah from the Rhone.  There is something for everyone. 
 
Daufresne, Poire (Perry) Cidre Normandy $12
A Perry pear is gritty, tannic and acidic, with tannins that tend to be rounder than those found in cider apples, and the pears used for perry have less malic acid than cider apples, resulting in a beverage that is less tart and more delicate. The Daufresne offers sparkling and persistent effervescence with tastes of fresh pear fruit, hints of melon and citrus, natural sediments in glass, rustic with a clean pure sweetness, balanced by refreshing acidity.
 
2016 Domaine Beausejour, Les Grenettes, Touraine Blanc  $15
Sauvignon Blanc
Beausejour is a 20-hectare vineyard on siliceous soil (sand with clays and flint) which makes for a very pleasing white.  Lemon and spice make this a fruity while textured wine. It tastes like the soil from which it comes, very mineral and flinty.  The palate is supple and fresh, with a good balance.
 
2015 Lamothe Castera, Cuveé Margaux, Bordeaux $15
85% Cabernet Sauvignon 15% Merlot
Château Lamothe-Castera, located in the Entre Deux Mers region, 50 miles from Bordeaux and has been producing wine since the 15th century. The vineyards are composed of 30-year-old vines and are farmed sustainably.  The Cuveé Margaux is made in stainless steel tanks.  The nose is of small ripe red fruits, spices, and of vanilla.  The palate is smooth with a good intensity. 
 
2011 Clos du Roy, Fronsac $25 
90% Merlot, Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Clos du Roy is a family owned 20-hectare estate.  Their Fronsac is aged for 12 months in French oak (30% new).  The wine has a fine structure and a wealth of succulent, ripe dark-berried fruit.
 
2015 Châteaumar, Cuveé Vincent Syrah $17
The Vincent is made from 50+ year old Syrah vines growing on two parcels bordering Châteauneuf-du-Pape.  This vineyard is completely sustainably farmed.  The wine is rich and dark with aromas of blackberries, blueberries, and dark spices. Sultry black pepper and black cherry fruit appear on the palate, swirling with earthy notes.

Madrona Wine Merchants offers free wine tastings featuring 4-5 selections on a theme every Saturday from 2 until the bottles run out and on Sunday we offer a mini-tasting of two wines all day from 11-5.