Chelsea's wines for the month.

Cartlidge and Browne Merlot 2004. Medium-full garnet in color, the wine's aromas are principally ripe black currant and blueberry, bolstered by notes of cola, licorice, and unsweetened chocolate, as well as spicy oak. On the palate, the texture is firm but without powerful tannins, its flavors of cassis, black cherry, and spice cake. Makes a great accompaniment for roasted or grilled red meats (especially lamb), poultry and soft-ripened cheeses. Also partners very well with polenta and sausages.

Stonehedge Cabernet Sauvignon 2004. 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Syrah and Petit Syrah . This is a lively wine featuring a delicious core of ripe currants and blackberry notes with flashes of plum framed by soft tannins and just a hint of oak.  Small amounts of syrah and petite syrah were added, infusing the wine a subtle spice nuance.  Well balanced and medium bodied, it will complement the combination of all foods and friends!

Navarro Correas Cabernet Sauvignon 2004. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Mendoza region of Argentina . Dark ruby color, cassis, black olive and a touch of herbs mingle with hints of oak vanilla on the nose. Ripe currant, dark berry, mocha and tobacco mingle on a full-bodied palate against a background of supple tannins.

Chateau Jonqueyres 2002. 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon..Chateau Jonqueyres is the ideal, Merlot-based Bordeaux for every day drinking. In the words of Robert Parker, Chateau Jonqueyres makes “high quality wines that can compete with more famous estates.” Chateau Jonqueyres is packed with supple, cassis-scented Merlot fruit and offer flavors of dark cherries, cranberries and plums with a supple texture. The wine is ready for current enjoyment and represents outstanding value in 2002 Bordeaux . (The name of the wine is pronounced Jon-kear, to rhyme with pear.)

Gilles Ferran Cotes du Rhone Les Sablieres 2004. 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah. Medium ruby color. Good nose of pure ripe blackberry and black cherry. Nice structure on the palate, simple but elegant fruit and spice. Dangerously easy to drink.
Vercheres Domaine de Macon Villages 2004. 100% Chardonnay, stainless steel fermented. Light in color with green tinges. A powerful floral nose with tropical fruit undertones, clean, crisp and incredibly elegant on the palate.