<A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com" TITLE="SidewaysWineClub.com"><IMG SRC="https://store.nexternal.com/sideways/sideways.jpg" ALT="SidewaysWineClub.com" NAME="SidewaysWineClub.com" BORDER=0></A><BR>
<H1>Phillips Hill Estates, 2007 Pinot Noir "Oppenlander" (Comptche, Mendocino County) -- SidewaysWineClub.com Shopping Cart</H1>
<B>$42.00</B>
-- <I>I discovered this wine by pure chance. And what a lucky chance it was!</I>
<P>
<IMG SRC="https://store.nexternal.com/sideways/images/PH-Label-Oppenlander-07.jpg" WIDTH=150 ALIGN=right ALT="Phillips Hill Estates, 2007 Pinot Noir "Oppenlander" (Comptche, Mendocino County)" NAME="Phillips Hill Estates, 2007 Pinot Noir "Oppenlander" (Comptche, Mendocino County)" BORDER=0 HSPACE=10>
<font face=arial><font size=3>Though the grapes for this wine are from a vineyard in the small town of Comptche (population 368!), I discovered the wine at Phillips Hill's new tasting room in Philo. Compared to Comptche, Philo is a booming metropolis - home to 1,100 people, Lemon's Market (Anderson Valley's primary source for groceries, meat and gossip) and the outstanding Libby's Mexican Restaurant. And now too, the Phillips Hill tasting room.
<P>I stumbled upon Phillips Hill about six months ago, just by chance, after a family lunch at Libby's. I couldn't even talk my wife into going in - she took our daughter into Lemon's Market and left me to the delightful pleasure of discovering a new up-and-coming producer. Watch these guys - they'll be hitting the charts next to Breggo and Toulouse and Black Kite and Copain and Anthill Farms and the rest of the Anderson Valley elite.
<P><B><U>Tasting Notes</b></u>
<br>This wine is on the lighter side, an increasingly common style in the Anderson Valley. Look for tart red cherries and pomegranate that segues into a broader mid-palate and on into a long finish with echoes of warm leather and sweet spices. Let this wine open up for an hour or more before serving and you'll be well rewarded for your patience. Speaking of which, this wine will evolve nicely for 5-6 years in your cellar.
<P><B><U>The Oppenlander Vineyard</b></u>
<br>After selecting this wine for our club shipment, I convinced my family to join me for a drive through Comptche in search of this vineyard. We found the little hamlet and even saw vineyards, though none bore any sign of ownership. Still, our trip made it evident that this ridge-top location assures great sun exposure, cooler temperatures (about 10 as-the-crow-flies miles from the very cool Mendocino coast) and gave ample evidence as to why the Comptche Ridge is the latest outstanding Pinot region to emerge from Mendocino County.
<P>Had we found the Oppenlander Vineyard, we'd have seen it entering its tenth year, as it was in 1998 and 1999 that the Shandel family planted their 18 acre vineyard to various Pinot Noir clones (Pommard, Martini, 114, 115, 667, all self-rooted). It is planted near their residence in a large opening in the redwood and fir forest - and I don't need to remind you of the affect on quality that ensues when an owner lives close to the vines. Like the prima donna's they are, pinot vines thrive on such close attention. This vineyard is now in full production, and is a source for truly exceptional fruit.
<P>The family named the vineyard “Oppenlander” after their ancestors, homesteaders who settled 640 acres in the 1860s, back when it was in the interest of our nation to grant land to anyone who would manage it.
<P><B><U>Winemaking Details</b></u><ul>
<li><B>Harvest:</b> October 1, October 4th 2007
Clones: Dijon 115, 114 – 50%, Pommard – 35%, 667 – 10%, Martini – 5%
<li><B>Brix:</b> 25 degrees
<li><B>Tons per Acre:</b> 3
<li><B>Alcohol:</b> 14.2%
<li><B>pH:</b> 3.42 (this is what makes this wine so crisply refreshing. For reference, grapefruit juice has a pH of 3.0 - 3.3) TA: 5.8
<li><B>Barrel regimen:</b> 100% French Oak, 11 months, 40% New , 20% 1 year, 40% seasoned.
<li><B>Fermentation:</b> Whole berry, 4 days cold soak 16 days on skins.
<li><B>Cases: 450 cases. Unfined and Unfiltered.</b></ul>
<P>Cheers!
<br>Dave the Wine Merchant
<br>Dave@SidewaysWineClub.com</P>
<P>
<LI>SKU: PH-PN-OPP-07
</P>
<P><B>Other products in the category <A HREF="http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Category2" TITLE="All Wines (alphabetically)">All Wines (alphabetically)</A>:</B>
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product943 TITLE="Adelaida Cellars, 2005 Cabernet">Adelaida Cellars, 2005 Cabernet</A> -- A deep and earthy Cabernet, from Paso Robles West Side
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product888 TITLE="Adelaida Cellars, 2005 Reserve Cabernet, Viking Estate Vineyard">Adelaida Cellars, 2005 Reserve Cabernet, Viking Estate Vineyard</A> -- The wine that is the jewel in the portfolio of Adelaida Cellars, from Paso Robles famed West Side
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1019 TITLE="Alain Normand, La Roche Vineuse, 2007 White Burgundy (Old Vines)">Alain Normand, La Roche Vineuse, 2007 White Burgundy (Old Vines)</A> -- White Burgundy is the home of Chardonnay, and still the classic sign post for its most elegant expression
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1110 TITLE="Andeluna, 2008 Torrontes (Mendoza)">Andeluna, 2008 Torrontes (Mendoza)</A> -- One of the Cool & Trendy wines on today's wine scene. A lot of flavor for not a lot of money.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1037 TITLE="Andrew Lane, 2005 Merlot, St. Helena">Andrew Lane, 2005 Merlot, St. Helena</A> -- Merlot? On the SIDEWAYS site?? ! Yes, you see, Miles wouldn't have complained about this one! Merlot the way it should be.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1058 TITLE="Arcadian 2006 Pinot Noir, Sleepy Hollow Vineyard">Arcadian 2006 Pinot Noir, Sleepy Hollow Vineyard</A> -- Winegrower Joe Davis blends his old world training with new world fruit, creating affordable masterpieces. A big noseful of cherries and roses with a nice hint of oak spice.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product751 TITLE="Big Basin Vineyards, 2005 Syrah, "Rattlesnake Rock"">Big Basin Vineyards, 2005 Syrah, "Rattlesnake Rock"</A> -- A huge wine I enthusiastically support, despite my old world palate! Just 340 cases produced.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1107 TITLE="Bighorn, 2005 Cabernet, Napa Valley (Coombsville Vyrd)">Bighorn, 2005 Cabernet, Napa Valley (Coombsville Vyrd)</A> -- From the talented hands of Winemaker William Hill, a Napa cab for under $20!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1091 TITLE="Bodega Carelli, 2008 Latitude 34 Merlot (Mendoza, Argentina)">Bodega Carelli, 2008 Latitude 34 Merlot (Mendoza, Argentina)</A> -- Another affordable gem that tastes like it costs far more than it does.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1003 TITLE="Bonneau Wines, 2005 Zinfandel, Shenandoah Valley">Bonneau Wines, 2005 Zinfandel, Shenandoah Valley</A> -- Beautiful dark fruit is topped by red raspberries and mouth-watering wafts of bramble berries and fresh ground pepper. 14.1% alcohol
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product990 TITLE="Bonneau Wines, 2007 Los Carneros Chardonnay, Catherine's Vineyard">Bonneau Wines, 2007 Los Carneros Chardonnay, Catherine's Vineyard</A> -- This wine should be an evangelist, going door-to-door to change the minds of people who have sworn off Chardonnay!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1101 TITLE="Brochelle, 2006 Cabernet, Napa Valley">Brochelle, 2006 Cabernet, Napa Valley</A> -- Gobs of ripe fruit. A hedonist's dream, perfect for wowing friends at the cocktail hour!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product950 TITLE="Brochelle, 2007 Estate Zinfandel">Brochelle, 2007 Estate Zinfandel</A> -- Adored by lovers of big and jammy Zinfandels! Gobs of hedonistic, ripe fruit balance the high alcohol.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1078 TITLE="Calzada Ridge 2008 Viognier">Calzada Ridge 2008 Viognier</A> -- Last summer, we sold more of this wine than any other white wine in our shop. Only 90 cases made!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product722 TITLE="Cass Winery, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles)">Cass Winery, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles)</A> -- When it comes to Bordeaux varietals like this Cabernet, Paso Robles rocks! (90 Points, Wine Enthusiast)
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1102 TITLE="Cass Winery, 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles)">Cass Winery, 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles)</A> -- When it comes to Bordeaux varietals like this Cabernet, Paso Robles rocks! (90 Points, Wine Enthusiast)
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product824 TITLE="Charles de Fere, N.V. Chardonnay Sparkling Wine "Tradition"">Charles de Fere, N.V. Chardonnay Sparkling Wine "Tradition"</A> -- A sparkling wine with the character of Champagne, but without the price!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1105 TITLE="Chateau de Riux, Riussanelle, 2008 Minervois">Chateau de Riux, Riussanelle, 2008 Minervois</A> -- A delightful mouthfull of fun flavors. Perfect for light dinners, leftovers, or sandwiches!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product987 TITLE="Chateau Fontan 2006 Bordeaux Superieur">Chateau Fontan 2006 Bordeaux Superieur</A> -- A "Bordeaux Superieur" - Did you know that 80% of Bordeaux wines cost less than $20?
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product947 TITLE="Chaucer's Pomegranate Wine (500 ml)">Chaucer's Pomegranate Wine (500 ml)</A> -- A dessert wine made from fermented Pomegranate juice. Sweet, but with tons of anti-oxidents!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1024 TITLE="Chronicle Wines, 2006 Pinot Noir, Cerise Vineyard">Chronicle Wines, 2006 Pinot Noir, Cerise Vineyard</A> -- The Pinnacle of the Chronicle portfolio, I fell in love with this wine the instant I smelled it!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1020 TITLE="Chronicle Wines, 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast">Chronicle Wines, 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast</A> -- This wine reflects the signature style of winemaker Ted Lemon (of Littorai fame) - elegant, food-friendly, and worth more than it costs.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1027 TITLE="Chronicle Wines, 2006 Russian River Old Vine Zinfandel">Chronicle Wines, 2006 Russian River Old Vine Zinfandel</A> -- My favorite at this year's ZAP - the massive annual Zinfrandel tasting in San Francisco.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product924 TITLE="Cima Collina, 2006 Pinot Noir, Tondre Grapefield Vyrd">Cima Collina, 2006 Pinot Noir, Tondre Grapefield Vyrd</A> -- Located amidst some of California's best Monterey Vineyards, this wine is from an upcoming vineyard and an upcoming producer. One to watch.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product837 TITLE="Clos Mimi, 2004 Syrah, Shell Creek Vineyard">Clos Mimi, 2004 Syrah, Shell Creek Vineyard</A> -- A big, muscular Syrah from Paso Robles. Look for inviting essence of coffee, licorice / tar and deep, dark fruits.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product543 TITLE="Clos Mimi, 2005 Syrah, Petite Rousse">Clos Mimi, 2005 Syrah, Petite Rousse</A> -- Blindfold me and I'll identify this wine as old-world. From somewhere in the South of France. Complex, country air, ripe blue fruits with hints of pepper and smoked meat and smoldering vineyard clippings and... I could go on and on.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1002 TITLE="Copain, 2007 Pinot Noir "Tous Ensemble" Anderson Valley">Copain, 2007 Pinot Noir "Tous Ensemble" Anderson Valley</A> -- Nuanced and subtle, with Bing Cherries, layers of black tea, and sweet spice.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product793 TITLE="Core Wines - 2005 "Mr. Moreved"">Core Wines - 2005 "Mr. Moreved"</A> -- Like a taste of Southern France, this is a big wine for those who love a wine with backbone. 17% Grenache, much like the great wines of Bandol.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product714 TITLE="Core Wines - 2005 Hard Core">Core Wines - 2005 Hard Core</A> -- In this wine, Dave Corey blends the Mourvedre and Grencahe grapes of the Rhone Valley with Cabernet Sauvignon. A "Super Rhone", if you will.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product484 TITLE="Denner Vineyards, 2006 "Ditch Digger", Rhone Blend">Denner Vineyards, 2006 "Ditch Digger", Rhone Blend</A> -- Big, rich and inky, this is a body-builder of a wine, the Rhone on steroids!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1106 TITLE="Domaine des Lones, 2004 Coteaux du Tricastin (Red)">Domaine des Lones, 2004 Coteaux du Tricastin (Red)</A> -- Tremendous value in a Rhone blend (in this case, Grenache, Cinsaul, Syrah)
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1088 TITLE="Domaine Sallies, 2008 Viognier, Languedoc">Domaine Sallies, 2008 Viognier, Languedoc</A> -- A beautiful wine at an amazingly affordable price! Looong finish of classic white pepper balances its floral aromas.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1053 TITLE="Elegante Cellars, 2006 Merlot, Walla Walla (Seven Hills Vyrd)">Elegante Cellars, 2006 Merlot, Walla Walla (Seven Hills Vyrd)</A> -- A beautiful hand-crafted Merlot, from a vineyard described as one of the world's best for Merlot.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1034 TITLE="Elkhorn Peak, 2006 Chardonnay, Vineyard Select (Napa/Carneros)">Elkhorn Peak, 2006 Chardonnay, Vineyard Select (Napa/Carneros)</A> -- A classic "New Age" California Chardonnay - rich, but not buttery or over-bearing. A modern classic.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1046 TITLE="Elkhorn Peak, 2008 Rose of Pinot Noir, Estate">Elkhorn Peak, 2008 Rose of Pinot Noir, Estate</A> -- The debut Blush Wine from this veteran pinot producer
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1040 TITLE="Fattoria San Francesco, 2007 Ciro Rosso Classico, Gaglioppo">Fattoria San Francesco, 2007 Ciro Rosso Classico, Gaglioppo</A> -- This exotic grape from Italy's Calabria provides and interesting wine of utmost complexity. Tremendous value!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1123 TITLE="Four Graces, 2007 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley">Four Graces, 2007 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley</A> -- Classic Pinot from Oregon’s Willamette Valley with notes of mushrooms and warm, freshly-turned earth.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1018 TITLE="Gilles Bonnefoy, 2007 Roussanne de Madone, Loire Valley">Gilles Bonnefoy, 2007 Roussanne de Madone, Loire Valley</A> -- Deeper and more brooding than Viognier, this wine can age for several years.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1063 TITLE="Gruet, NV Brut">Gruet, NV Brut</A> -- One of the finest domestic sparkling wines under $30!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1095 TITLE="Gruet, NV Brut Rose">Gruet, NV Brut Rose</A> -- One of the finest domestic sparkling wines under $25!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product996 TITLE="Happy Canyon, 2008 "Chukker", Cabernet Franc">Happy Canyon, 2008 "Chukker", Cabernet Franc</A> -- A great red wine for spring and summer - light and refreshing, easy to drink, and with moderate alcohol. A personal favorite!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product61 TITLE="J. Wilkes - 2004 Pinot Blanc, Bien Nacido Vineyards">J. Wilkes - 2004 Pinot Blanc, Bien Nacido Vineyards</A> -- <B>A "Maya's Favorites" Club Selection (06/05)</b> We are fortunate to get a small allocation of this wonderful best-selling summer wine!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product411 TITLE="J. Wilkes - 2005 Pinot Noir, Solomon Hills Vineyard">J. Wilkes - 2005 Pinot Noir, Solomon Hills Vineyard</A> -- The owners of Solomon HIlls Vineyard sell fruit to a few hand-picked producers. Jeff Wilkes was among the few. An exceptional example of Central Coast Pinot.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product147 TITLE="J. Wilkes - Half Case, 3-Year Vertical! '01, '02 & '03 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyards, Block Q">J. Wilkes - Half Case, 3-Year Vertical! '01, '02 & '03 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyards, Block Q</A> -- A 'Sideways' Exlcusive! A half-case, vertical collection.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product700 TITLE="JC Cellars 2005 Petite Sirah "Frediani"">JC Cellars 2005 Petite Sirah "Frediani"</A> -- More layers than an onion. Or a parfait. Whatever YOUR analogy, you'll enjoy watching this one unfold. "92 Points" - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product784 TITLE="Labyrinth 2006 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard">Labyrinth 2006 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard</A> -- The 2006 BNV Pinot from Labyrinth is going to be a classic. This one will age for a decade!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1104 TITLE="Labyrinth 2007 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard">Labyrinth 2007 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard</A> -- Don't judge this Cental Coast pinot by its peers. It stands alone.
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product937 TITLE="L'Aventure, 2006 Optimus">L'Aventure, 2006 Optimus</A> -- A premium wine experience "90 Points" Robert PArker, Wine Advocate
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product935 TITLE="Loring Wine Company, 2007 Pinot Noir, Graham Family Vineyard, Russian River">Loring Wine Company, 2007 Pinot Noir, Graham Family Vineyard, Russian River</A> -- The only Loring Pinot from the Russian River, and one I can't get enough of!
<BR clear=left><BR><LI><A HREF=http://www.nexternal.com/sideways/Product1096 TITLE="Loring Wine Company, 2008 Pinot Noir, "Central Coast"">Loring Wine Company, 2008 Pinot Noir, "Central Coast"</A> -- The first multi-vineyard blend I've seen from Brian Loring, and at a great price!
</P>
<BR clear=left><BR><P><A HREF="http://www.nexternal.com/sideways" TITLE="SidewaysWineClub.com Products">SidewaysWineClub.com Products</A></P>
<BR clear=left><BR><BR><BR><BR>
<BR><A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">wine</A> <A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">pinot noir</A> <A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">rhone wine</A> <A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">wine club</A> <A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">cult wine</A> <A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">sideways wine</A> <A HREF="http://www.SidewaysWineClub.com">sideways the movie</A>
<BR>SidewaysWineClub.com Online Store powered by Nexternal <A HREF="http://www.nexternal.com" TITLE="ecommerce solutions">ecommerce solutions</A>
