K&L Wine Merchants - Daniel Maas Reviews

Charles Ellner "Premier Cru" Brut Champagne

Review Date: 05-23-2016

Ask someone to describe me, and you'll get a myriad of responses: "Witty", "Generous" "A snappy dresser". Most importantly, however, I'm widely known as a movie freak. And so, I found myself about to taste Charles Ellner's 1er Cru Champagne, which he has simply named "PREMIER CRU". What was my first thought? WHY HAS THEIR NOT BEEN A MOVIE with this title? It's so evocative. So dramatic and up front with its intention. After tasting, I realized my answer. No movie, no matter how good, could possibly live up to the craftsmanship that is expressed here in this amazing Champagne. It tells a story, and as such, has a wonderful three-act-structure: Vibrant cherry and blackberry on the nose; A rich and creamy texture that you wouldn't expect from a Chard based wine; And finally... A third-act climax of pear, toast, and just the right amount of acidity! No, there is no movie called PREMIER CRU (until I write it), but we can rest assured that the name has found a fitting home on this AMAZING WINE!

Price: Hidden

Ariston Aspasie Brut Rosé Champagne

Review Date: 05-21-2016

Rose. It is possibly one of the most singularly used words in the lexicon of wine, and yet, it is so often mischaracterized. People think it's sweet. People think it is light. Well, listen up, folks, because PEOPLE ARE WRONG! This is clearly evidenced here with Ariston Aspasie's beautifully crafted Brut Rose. Neither sweet, nor particularly, light, what it absolutely is is REFRESHING! Given a supremely unique personality from the method of taking its color from completely vinified red wine as opposed to the more common method of including a degree of skin contact, this is one of the drier rose champagnes I've tasted lately. Cranberry, dried-cherry, and a hint of spice-box all work together to create a medley of wonderment that you won't soon forget!

Price: $39.99

Ariston Aspasie "Réserve" Brut Champagne

Review Date: 05-21-2016

I'll be the first to admit it. I grew up somewhat spoiled. When it came to things that really mattered, like what movie to rent, I pretty much had CARTE BLANCHE. Unfortunately, that freedom and joy absolutely PALED IN COMPARISON to the delight that I encountered upon my first taste of this gorgeous bottling from one of our long-time favorite Champagne producers. Composed of almost-equal shares of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier,there's simply too much to love here: Bright traces of apple; the present-yet-balanced yeast; and the toastiness that I absolutely require in champagne. Simply remarkable, it is, to find a wine so complex and meticulously crafted for such a price!

Price: $34.99

Singani "63" Bolivian Muscat Brandy (750ml)

Review Date: 06-24-2015

What a great night we had last evening at Delphine, celebrating this wonderful spirit, and exploring its amazing versatility. Thanks to esteemed filmmaker Steven Soderburgh, this super-clean and floral muscat brandy is finally available here in the states, and is a perfect addition to any bar, especially for when someone wants an amazing cocktail, yet is sick of their usual tequila-gin-vodka selections. Be sure to try this soon!

Price: $29.99

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