The holidays are upon us and this weekend we have a solid line up of French wines to add to the seasonal festivities.  Come by and help us toast Bon Solstice! Joyeaux Noël! Bonne L’année Nouvelle!  Or you can just make fun of our accents.
 
2015 Cave De Tain, Crozes-Hermitage Blanc  $20
Marsanne.
This Northern Rhone white has a rich nose dominated by citrus fruits and green lemon. The second nose, more complex, reveals exotic fruits (pineapple, mango), anise and bitter almond aromas. It is a well-balanced and fresh wine with a lemony finish. 
 
2012 Olivier Morin, Bourgogne Chitry  $15
Pinot Noir
A great deal on an Bourgogne Rouge. This Chitry has a fresh nose with notes of cherries and roses. Light and supple with balanced tannic structure, evolving on notes of spices and red fruits.  Organic
Was $18 now $15

2015 Château Mountfaucon, Lirac  $20
60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Cinsault
A very well-balanced Rhone Red, the 2015 has bright cherry and pomegranate fruit is laced with a light lavender thread and lightly dusty tannins, espresso and cinnamon notes.

2013 Château Respide-Medeville Graves  $25
60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
The nose offers brisk blackberry and briary aromas, The palate is medium-bodied with a spicy opening, nicely balanced with white pepper, cassis, leathery tannins and a long smooth finish.
Was $32 now $25

2005 Château Citran, Haut Medoc  $36
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot
Here is a chance to drink a developed Bordeaux without aging it yourself.  This stunning Left Bank Bordeaux blends 50% Merlot with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon from a text-book perfect vintage. The classic ageing in part new French oak adds a toasty spiciness to the wines, while the fruit flavors have moved towards the more mature flavors of dark berry fruit, earthy notes and savory bite.
Was $48 now $36

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.