November Classes

New Schedule

November is one of our most popular months for classes. Shorter days and long, chilly evenings seem perfect for tasting some excellent wines and learning while you sample. Here's the new schedule for November. Terms are the same as our current schedule listed in this newsletter. Reservations are required. Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.

Tuesday, November 3
Introduction to Wine
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Are you interested in learning more about wine but don't know where to start? Come try a sampling of styles and learn the basics. The more you know about wine, the more you will enjoy consuming it!
$20 per person

Thursday, November 5
Cabernet Sauvignon
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Cabernet Sauvignon produces more sought after wines than any other grape variety. It is the base for most of the great wines of Bordeaux and a star in California's Napa Valley. You'll see it in Australia, Chile and Argentina too. In this class we'll try six excellent Cabs from around the world.
$30 per person
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.

Friday, November 6
Wine & Cheese Pairing: Deluxe Edition
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
This is one of our most popular classes here at The Merch. This class couples great wines with the world's best cheeses and specialty foods. Be sure to get your reservations in because this class sells out fast!
$40 per person

Saturday, November 7
Italy
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Italy is among the world's elite wineproducing countries, featuring a dizzying array of wines of unsurpassed quality. In this class we will offer a glimpse into the bounty of Italian wines.
$25 per person

Tuesday, November 10
Rum
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Rum (or Rhum) is poised to be the next darling of the spirit world. From aged to single cask rums, these are gaining acceptance as world-class spirits. It is sure to be an enjoyable and informative class.
$35 per person

Thursday, November 12
Spain
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
The world's most dynamic wine producing country; Spain is a constant source of new, exciting wines thanks to young wine makers, native grapes grown on old vines and a wide variety of climates. Get hooked on Spain while it's still a great value!
$25 per person

Friday, November 13
Champagne & Sparkling Wine
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
This festive class explores sparkling wines from around the world, including France's prestigious wines from Champagne. Come see why this is one of our most popular classes.
$35 per person

Saturday, November 14
Best Buys Under $15
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Good wines don't have to be expensive! Come taste some great quality examples without breaking the bank. What a bargain!
$15 per person

Tuesday, November 17
Wine and Cheese Pairing: French Edition
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
You've enjoyed our wine and cheese pairing classes before, but this time we'll be pairing a variety of our delicious French wines with cheeses from within those same regions.
$35 per person

Thursday, November 19
Argentina
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
The winemakers of Argentina are turning heads in the world of wine. They are making great wine from classic grapes like Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah and Chardonay, and have adopted other grapes like Torrontes, Bonarda, and especially Malbec as their own. If you haven't tried the wines from Argentina, now is the time!
$25 per person

Friday, November 20
Syrah/Shiraz
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
In this class you get to see how different climates, soils and production techniques affect one of the longest established grape varietals-no matter how you spell it.
$20 per person

Saturday, November 21
Chardonnay
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Chardonnay is the most popular white wine varietal in the world. This class will showcase some bargains and exceptional, delicious wines made from Chardonnay grapes. Great class!
$25 per person

Tuesday, November 24
Global Rhone Rangers
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
France's Rhone Valley has inspired winemakers from around the world to emulate its ethereal wines. They're usually made from Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre grapes, sometimes in a blend but not always. In this class we'll try examples of Rhone inspired wines from Spain, Australia and the U.S.A. to see if they stack up to the French model. Fun class!
$25 per person

Friday, November 27
Garnacha/Grenache
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
The great grape of the Western Mediterranean, Grenache is the base grape of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and is making phenomenal wine in its native Spain where it's called Garnacha. The New World is catching on as well, with excellent examples from California and Australia. Acquaint yourself with these gorgeous wines now, as the prices are only going to go up.
$30 per person

Saturday, November 28
Bordeaux
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Thanks to its size and diversity, Bordeaux produces fine wines for every taste, every mood and every budget. In this class we'll taste both white and red Bordeaux wines along with a special dessert wine from the region. Excellent class!
$30 per person

Classes at The Merch

Taste While You Learn!

Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Our classes are fun, informative and are a great way to learn about wine, spirits and the wide world of beer. Our classes are taught by knowledgeable members of our Award-Winning Staff. and are single session events with six wines (or spirits, beers, etc.) served based on the theme of each class. Tasty items from our Award-Winning Cheese Department are also included in each class. All of our classes begin at 6:00 PM and end around 7:30 PM. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations. Sorry, no cancellations. See store for details.

Sauce Magazine Says...
"If you want to learn about the taste, geography, history and use of wine for daily dining and social pleasure, there is no better place..."
-Sauce Magazine

Tuesday, October 27
Deluxe Single Malt Scotch
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Our very own Dave Davis will lead you in this deluxe Single Malt Scotch Whisky class. You'll taste some of the finest classics and rare bottles too. Here's what we're pouring this evening:

18 Year Springbank Distillery Bottliing (new!)

1984 Bruichladdich "Golder Still" Cask Strength

1976 Glenfiddich Distillery Cask Strength

37 Year Longmorn Cask Strength

1974 Glenfarclas Distillery Cask Strength

1981 Glenmorangie Margaux Finish

$75 per person

Thursday, October 29
California's Central Coast
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
The Golden State leads in both quality and volume in the USA. California's Central Coast region is up and coming and features some new AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) that are producing some fine juice. Join us for this fun class - dude!
$25 per person

Friday, October 30
France's Rhone Valley
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Taste and learn about France's Rhone Valley in this fine class. The Rhone produces some incredible bargains along with rare gems for wine collectors. This class will include some wines from the great 2007 vintage too, including the 2007 Saint-Cosme Gigondas (93 Points, the Wine Advocate) &Vieux Donjon (94-96/100 Points, the Wine Advocate).
$35 per person

Saturday, October 31
Trick or Treat? Blind Tasting
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
In this fun class we'll taste six wines in a 'blind' presentation. Some of them will be expensive... some not. Join us for this fun class on Halloween night. Can you spot the trick or the treat?
$25 per person

Special Scotch Whisky Tasting

Single Malts from Arran

Arran Single Malt Scotch Tasting
Thursday, October 29
The Wine Merchant, Ltd.
20 South Hanley Road in Clayton
5:30 until 7:00 PM
Cost: $10.00 per person
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Join us as we welcome back Rick Walsh from A. Hardy Spirits, importer of Arran Single Malts. The Arran distillery was built on Scottish Isle of Arran in 1995. Rick will be sharing his stories about Arran and pouring a selection of their fine Single Malts including some new expressions that have been aged in a variety of wine and brandy casks. Here's the lineup along with reviews from Jim Murray's Whiskey Bible and sale prices for this week...

NV Arran Single Malt Whisky Unchillfiltered $35.99
Arran Single Malt Whisky 10 Year Old $47.79 (Rated 91)
NV Arran Single Malt Whisky Bourbon Finish Cask Strength $80.99
NV Arran Single Malt Whisky Sassacaia Finish Cask Strength $80.99 (Rated 92.5)
NV Arran Single Malt Whisky Pomerol Finish Cask Strength $80.99
NV Arran Single Malt Whisky Lepanto PX Brandy Finish Cask Strength $80.99

New Kacher Closeouts

Great Savings on French Gems

We've been working with wine importer Bobby Kacher for years. His wines always deliver and he rarely closes out wines from his portfolio of family-owned French wine estates. Guess it's just a sing of the times but we have a small offering of closeouts from him. The wines have been properly stored, prices have been slashed and we're passing the savings on to you. Please act quickly on this exceptional offer.

Wine Critic Steven Tanzer on Kacher
"The Robert Kacher Selections imprint on a label is a virtual guarantee of high quality wine."
-Steven Tanzer, The International Wine Cellar

2007 Saint Antoine Merlot

Closeout Price $5.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $12
"This is one of the best closeouts that we've had in a long time. We know, we know. Merlot has been out of fashion but this has to be the tastiest $6 wine we've had in years. Saint Antoine's wines come from the Costieres de Nimes which was virtually unknown until Bobby Kacher started poking around there decades ago. This is a dark example of this noble grape from Bordeaux. The nose is lush and inviting. On the palate it strikes you with ripe black cherries enhanced by hints of dark chocolate and earth. The finish is silky and satisfying. This should sell out with lightning speed so please act quickly."
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

2007 Saint Antoine Syrah

Closeout Price $6.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $13
"Here's another tremendous closeout. This dark, spicy Syrah comes from vineyards in the Costieres de Nimes a value-producing area that straddles the Rhone and Languedoc. Past vintages have been praised by wine critic Robert Parker and called a best buy. For some, odd reason the '07 was never rated and is now a closeout. We think that it's a fine bargain at the original price but we're passing on the savings. This will fly off of the shelves at this tremendous discount!"
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

2005 Mas de Guiot Cuvée Alex

Closeout Price $10.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $22
"The 2005 Alex, which has a lot of Syrah in it, is a somewhat modern take on wine from the region, but very well done with a deep ruby/purple color and plenty of espresso roast notes intermixed with chocolate and blackberry. The wine is ripe, medium-bodied, pure, and long. It should drink nicely for 4-5 years."
-Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

2006 Amouriers Vacqueyras Les Genestes

Closeout Price $15.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $32
"The outstanding 2006 Vacqueyras Les Genestes is produced from the estate's oldest vines. It exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as a sweet perfume of red and black fruits, bouquet garni, meat juices, spice, and pepper. The stunning aromatics are matched by complex flavors. This full-bodied 2006 should drink nicely for 6-8 years."
-Rated 91/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

2006 Domaine Fondreche Cuvée Persia

Closeout Price $17.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $32
"This is a beauty that is limited in production. Made from 90% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre, with two-thirds of it aged in small barrels and the rest in 600-liter demi-muids, the inky/purple 2006 Persia displays creme de cassis and blackberry, and oozes charm and succulence."
-Rated 92/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

2005 Les Cailloux Chateauneuf du Pape

Closeout Price $29.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $60
"Deep, bright red. Pungent, highly complex bouquet evokes cherry-cola, blood orange, fresh flowers and minerals; smells like a Burgundy, and an awfully good one at that. Supple red berry preserve flavors are enlivened by juicy minerality and pick up a wild, smoked meat quality on the finish. Very impressive."
-Rated 93/100 The International Wine Cellar

We also have half bottles of this on closeout.
2005 Les Cailloux Chateauneuf du Pape 375 ml Closeout Price $14.99

2006 Cordier Saint Veran En Faux

Closeout Price $29.99

Compare to The Wine Spectator's Price of $46
"A tasty mix of toast, coffee, spice, citrus and mineral flavors. This is harmonious and complex, with a long finish, all backed by a vibrant structure. Drink now."
-Rated 90/100 The Wine Spectator

Abondance

Chantal Plasse

Cut and Wrapped Fresh to Your Order!
"This is a raw, cow's milk cheese produced in Franche-Comté from affineur Chantal Plasse. An affineur selects and ages cheeses. Chantal finds obscure French farms and handpicks her favorite cheeses from their production. She babysits the wheels and blocks and releases them at their peak to select retailers and top restaurants. Her cheeses are rare, I mean we literally have to beg for them (it's not pretty but we go the extra mile for our customers) and they sell so fast that it makes our heads spin. If you love cheese then you owe it to yourself to remember her name. The current wheels of Abondance from her are stunning, complex and sublime. Serious stuff. Ooh la la baby. Stop by our Clayton shop for a free sample."
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

Special Event: Cuisine from Tunisia

Featuring Les Moulins Mahjoub

Meet Mahjib Mahjoub from Les Moulins Mahjoub
Majid Mahjoub is a fourth generation farmer working the land from his family in Tebourba, Tunisia. He cares deeply about the foods he produces and the traditions behind them. He's affable, welcoming, and quite serious when it comes to making great food from the land of his home. He insists on a combination of ancient technique and modern production that balances land stewardship with the highest standards of food integrity. His farming and production methods are based on the centuries old traditions of the region, but his final products have the clean, artful presentation of modern works of art. His goal in all of this is to share the exquisite flavors of his beloved homeland. There is no charge for the food tasting but we're asking for reservations for this event so that we can be prepared. Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.

Les Moulins Mahjoub & Taste of Tunisia
Saturday, October 24
The Wine Merchant, Ltd.
20 South Hanley Road in Clayton
Noon until 4:00 PM
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Join us Saturday, October 24 for a very special event featuring traditional foods from Tunisia. Mahjib Mahjoub, farmer, proprietor and exporter from Les Moulins Mahjoub will be on hand to give a demo on foods from his native country using traditional ingredients from his company. We love the high quality products from Les Moulins Mahjoub. They combine traditional, handmade ingredients with modern, stylish packaging. Food & Wine magazine and Mediterranean food expert and author Paula Wolfert have raved about Les Moulins Mahjoub. We'll also be tasting wines that afternoon from the Mediterranean's top producers: France, Italy and Spain. Featured wines are from some of America's top importers. Join us for this great event.

Les Moulins Mahjoub

Handcrafted in Tunisia

What sets these products apart is the Mahjoub family's dedication to the region's traditional methods of food preparation. The result is obvious in every bite. Their couscous, harissa, spreads and sauces , along with all their other delicacies, will overwhelm you with the depth and complexity of their flavors. On Saturday Mahjib will be grilling lamb and preparing a delicious spread using items from Les Moulins Mahjoub. Here are just a few of their products that we carry...

Les Moulins Mahjoub

Natural Sahli Olives

Betcha' can't eat just one! We carry these flavorful little gems packaged in small jars and in bulk. Sahli olives are a variant of southern France's popular Nicoise variety. They're not pitted and are small in size but don't let that fool you. These are packed with fresh, fruity flavors which are distinctive thanks to a secret brine used by the Mahjoub family. These are also organically grown and cured without added preservatives and a minimal use of salt. We absolutely love 'em. We'll have free samples at our Les Moulins Mahjoub tasting this Saturday.

Les Moulins Mahjoub

M'hamsa Couscous

Couscous was first produced over a thousand years ago by the Berbers in a region called Maghreb which would cover parts of modern day Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria. What is couscous? It's a small, round, semolina-based pasta. Couscous is a dietary staple in North Africa, widely used in the Middle East and becoming popular in America. Technically a pasta but it's more similar to rice in shape and texture. Les Moulins Mahjoub produces their M'hamsa Couscous just like the Berbers. Semolina flour is rolled by hand with olive oil, water and salt. After sorting for shape it's sun-dried producing a rich, full, toasty flavor. Preparation at home is quick and easy for an evening meal or lunch for welcome but unexpected guests. The quality is amazing; night and day when compared to the factory-produced couscous stocked by most grocers. It's like comparing an elegant, complex, wine from the Burgundy region in France to a flavorless bulk-produced box wine. The New York Times loves it. Mahjib from Les Moulins Mahjoub is preparing some for our special tasting this Saturday so stop by the shop and taste and see for yourself.

Les Moulins Mahjoub

Wild Mountain Capers

Mahjoub's Wild Mountain Capers are harvested by hand, dried and preserved delicately with natural sea salt. They're the most flavorful capers that we've tasted and come packed in 100 gram jars. When gently reconstituted with water they're equal to 400 grams of common, flavorless, capers packed in salty brine. Add them to your kitchen pantry for an exotic and authentic taste of Tunisia.

New Closeouts

Great Savings & Big Scores

We have two closeouts for you this week. These are in stock with big reviews from the critics. The discounts are deep and quantities available are limited so please act on this special offer.

2001 Luigi d'Allesandro IL Bosco

Closeout Price $29.99

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $46
"The 2001 Il Bosco, one of the few high level examples of Syrah in Italy, is a brilliant dark ruby in color with a nose of blueberries and blackberry liqueur on the nose, and much vanilla and sandalwood in its intense, penetrating aromatics. Sweet and round on the palate, its solid texture and depth are balanced by a richness of extract and a silky mouthfeel which are particularly felt on the lengthy, resonant finish. Drink: 2005-2015."
-Rated 92/100 The Wine Advocate

Compare to The Wine Advocate's Price of $60
"Deep, bright red. Pungent, highly complex bouquet evokes cherry-cola, blood orange, fresh flowers and minerals; smells like a Burgundy, and an awfully good one at that. Supple red berry preserve flavors are enlivened by juicy minerality and pick up a wild, smoked meat quality on the finish. Very impressive."
-Rated 93/100 The International Wine Cellar

Special Offer

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malts

The Bruichladdich distillery closed in 1994 with scant hope of resurrection but lovers of these distinctive single malts from Islay can rejoice. Bruichladdich is back in business with new ownership and under the watchful eye (and nose) of Jim McEwan, Master Distiller! We have three new 'multi-vintage' single malts from Bruichladdich that offer different levels of classic, Islay peat. We also have their 'Resurrection Dram' in stock and on sale.

It's good to see all three expressions organized as family of whiskies. All three are interesting, with a varying range of flavor profiles."
-John Hansell, The Malt Advocate

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malt Whisky "Rocks"

On Sale $47.99

"Fruit is the common thread to this lightly peated whisky. Red fruit, that is. Red raspberry, red currant, red seedless grape, strawberry, and red apple. A gentle sweetness (creamy vanilla, light molasses) balances all this fruit. Not overly contemplative, but delightful. This is definitely not the same Rocks I reviewed two years ago. I still have my sample and compared it to this new expression. This new one is richer, darker in color, and tastes more mature. It's an improved version..."
-John Hansell, The Malt Advocate

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malt Whisky "Waves"

On Sale $50.99

"Only moderately peated (15ppm phenol), but a consistent influence. Quite fresh: reminds me of a walk around a traditional distillery, with notes of steeping barley, kiln smoke, and youthful spirit. A subtle, intriguing thread of gin botanicals (especially citrus peel) weaves its way through the palate... the smoke and fruit keep your attention."
-John Hansell, The Malt Advocate

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malt Whisky "Peat"

On Sale $54.99

"The most heavily peated of the three (35ppm phenol), but rather gentle for such smoke intensity. No doubt this is partly due to its sweet underbelly of vanilla cream puff, honeyed barley, and melon fruit. The other factor is that the smoke influence is not medicinal like some other Islay whiskies, but rather more of a leafy bonfire smoke, with burning embers and teasing brine on the finish."
-John Hansell, The Malt Advocate

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malt "Resurrection Dram"

On Sale $69.99

"Bruichladdich's "Resurrection Dram" is the first spirit to run off those stills under the careful guidance of Jim McEwan and his team. It's made in the old fashioned, artisinal way with a slow trickle distillation method. It's been aged in new oak since that glorious spring of '01, It's a lightly peated malt (10 ppm) by Islay standards and is now ready to enjoy. Golden hay-like color with plenty of fruit, honey, and spice on the nose. It's got subtle flavors in the mouth with notes of peat, straw, black pepper, dried herbs and sweet barley. Aye it's freaking great!"
-Dave Davis, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

Fee Brothers Great Mixers since 1863 Save 20% on Fee Brothers Mixers Fee Brothers was established in 1863 in Rochester, New York and is in the fourth generation of Fee ownership. They manufacture top quality cocktail mixes, bitters, flavoring syrups and other beverage ingredients that are essential to a well stocked bar. We have the following Fee Brothers bar essentials in stock. Mention that our e-mail newsletter and we'll give you a 20% discount off the retail price of any Fee Brothers product. Fee Brothers Peach Bitters Peach Bitters is a unique, fruity mixer brought back from obscurity by Fee Brothers. Ideal for use in drinks such as Xeres, Coronation, or even as a substitute for bitters in a classic martini. Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters is made from the skins of oranges grown in the West Indies. Until recently, this old cocktail ingredient had gone virtually unnoticed. A new interest in classic cocktails has brought it out of retirement. There are many recipes that call for orange bitters, but most notable is the "classic" Martini. Try a dash in your next Martini and you will never want one without orange bitters again. Fee Brothers Orgeat Syrup Fee Brothers Orgeat Almond Cordial Syrup is perfect for mixing sweet cocktails. Pronounced "or-ZHAT" this almond flavored syrup is milky-white. It is a key ingredient in many Polynesian drinks such as the Mai Tai and Mikado. It's also great for topping desserts and flavoring coffee. Fee Brothers American Beauty Grenadine This rich, full-bodied non-alcoholic cocktail syrup has the taste of pomegranate and other fruit flavors. Fee Brothers American Beauty Grenadine is a classic ingredient used in many cocktails like a Bacardi, Jack Rose, Rum Runner and Tequila Sunrise. It can also be used to flavor coffee, top dessert or add red coloring to food and drinks. Also, use to mix your own "cherry" cola or Shirley Temple's for the kids. Fee Brothers Cherry Bitters Enhance your cocktails with cherry bitters. Cocktail aficionados and creative bartenders will love this exotic ingredient and its endless possibilities. Just a few dashes add a flavor of cherry with a pleasantly sour bitterness that brings out the best in classic cocktails, soups and sauces. Offers unique flavor for concocting new drinks too.

Merch Bags

Single Malt Scotch Tasting with the Arran Distillery!

Arran Single Malt Scotch Tasting
Thursday, October 29th
5:30-7:00 PM
$10.00 per person
Call 314.863.6282 for reservations

Join us as we welcome back Rick Walsh from A.Hardy Spirits, importer of the Arran line of malts. The Arran distillery was built on the Isle of Arran in 1995 and started bottling after five years. Rick will be talking about the distillery and pouring malts from their portfolio in including some new expressions including:

NV Unchillfiltered $35.99 on Sale

10 Year Old $47.79 on Sale 91/100 Points, Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible

NV Bourbon Finish Cask Strength $80.99 on Sale!

NV Sassacaia FinishCask Strength NEW! $80.99 on Sale! 92.5/100 Points, Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible

NV Pomerol Finish Cask Strength NEW! $80.99 on Sale!

NV Lepanto PX Brandy Finish Cask Strength $80.99 on Sale!

Special Event: Cuisine from Tunisia

Featuring Les Moulins Mahjoub

Meet Mahjib Mahjoub from Les Moulins Mahjoub
Majid Mahjoub is a fourth generation farmer working the land from his family in Tebourba, Tunisia. He cares deeply about the foods he produces and the traditions behind them. He's affable, welcoming, and quite serious when it comes to making great food from the land of his home. He insists on a combination of ancient technique and modern production that balances land stewardship with the highest standards of food integrity. His farming and production methods are based on the centuries old traditions of the region, but his final products have the clean, artful presentation of modern works of art. His goal in all of this is to share the exquisite flavors of his beloved homeland. There is no charge for the food tasting but we're asking for reservations for this event so that we can be prepared. Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.

Les Moulins Mahjoub & Taste of Tunisia
Saturday, October 24
The Wine Merchant, Ltd.
20 South Hanley Road in Clayton
Noon until 4:00 PM
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Join us Saturday, October 24 for a very special event featuring traditional foods from Tunisia. Mahjib Mahjoub, farmer, proprietor and exporter from Les Moulins Mahjoub will be on hand to give a demo on foods from his native country using traditional ingredients from his company. We love the high quality products from Les Moulins Mahjoub. They combine traditional, handmade ingredients with modern, stylish packaging. Food & Wine magazine and Mediterranean food expert and author Paula Wolfert have raved about Les Moulins Mahjoub. We'll also be tasting wines that afternoon from the Mediterranean's top producers: France, Italy and Spain. Join us for this great event.

Classes at The Merch

Taste While You Learn

Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Our classes are fun, informative and are a great way to learn about wine, spirits and the wide world of beer. Our classes are taught by knowledgeable members of our Award-Winning Staff. and are single session events with six wines (or spirits, beers, etc.) served based on the theme of each class. Tasty items from our Award-Winning Cheese Department are also included in each class. All of our classes begin at 6:00 PM and end around 7:30 PM. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations. Sorry, no cancellations. See store for details.

Sauce Magazine Says...
"If you want to learn about the taste, geography, history and use of wine for daily dining and social pleasure, there is no better place..."
-Sauce Magazine

Tuesday, October 20
Hey Bartender!
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Join us for this class where you'll taste and learn about classic cocktails. Another new class!
$25 per person

Thursday, October 22
Great Values from the Loire Valley
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
France's Loire Valley produces some fine values. You'll taste and learn about them in this excellent class.
$20 per person

Friday, October 23
The New Spain
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Spain is on the cutting edge of the wine world. Taste and learn in this popular class edition!
$25 per person

Saturday, October 24
Perfect Pizza Wines: Tasty Pie from La Pizza!
Please call 314.863.6282 for reservations.
Tasty wines to pair with delicious pizza from U. City's La Pizza. Fun class and great pizza!
$20 per person

Veuve Clicquot Traveller Set

On Sale $86.88

Veuve Clicquot's Traveler Set is a great gift which safely transports a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and two flutes to your next destination. It can also become an elegant handbag by removing the protective insert. It's constructed from leather, neoprene (dimensions are 16" x 8" x 6"), and holds one bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne and two flutes. Quantities available are limited so please act quickly.

Special Feature

Morro Bay Bargains

We're big fans of Morro Bay here at The Merch and have been for years. Their tasty Chardonnay sells for a song and has been featured as a 'Best Buy' in The Wine Spectator. Morro Bay's Cabernet is an award winner and great bargain too. It's big, bold and one of the best deals around in a California Cab. These fine values from Morro Bay are in stock and on sale.

2007 Morro Bay Chardonnay "Split Oak Vineyard"

On Sale $10.99

"This bargain comes from the Golden State's Central Coast. There's a buzz of activity here but the value-priced juice won't last long as shrewd winemakers, investors and entrepreneurs snap up Central Coast vineyards. Last year's Morro Bay Chard received a 'Best Buy' from The Wine Spectator and we think the new, '07 is even tastier. The nose has notes of ripe apple, mouthwatering citrus and a gentle kiss of oak. The palate offers up layers of ripe fruit and hints of toasty oak and the finish is balanced by crisp acidity. A new staff favorite."
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

2006 Morro Bay Cabernet Sauvignon

On Sale $12.99

"This is dark in color with wonderful aromas of ripe blackberry, cherry and an exotic touch of cedar. In the mouth favors of ripe berries and black cherry steal the show with a richness you wouldn't expect from a wine in this price range. The finish offers shades of dark chocolate along with hints of spice. It's perfect now with grilled burgers or peppery, steak au poivre and at this price you can easily serve it with midweek leftovers too."
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

New California Releases

Big Reviews from the Critics

We have some highly-rated California wines in stock now with big reviews from the critics. Quantities are very limited so please act quickly on this special, e-mail offer.

2007 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River

On Sale $39.99

"...an outstanding example of Hobbs' meticulous vineyard sourcing and winemaking. With copious sweet forest floor, plum, black cherry, and earthy notes, a luscious, medium to full-bodied texture, and a long finish, it can be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years."
-Rated 91-93/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

2005 Mount Eden Cabernet Sauvignon Estate

On Sale $49.99

"Mount Eden makes their estate Cab the old-fashioned way: to age. The '05 is quite tannic and shut down right now, with a hard astringency, especially on the finish. However, it's rich in black currants, mocha and cedar, and is a natural for many years in the cellar. The score could rise considerably after 2011."
-Rated 93/100 The Wine Enthusiast

2006 Kistler Chardonnay Hudson Vineyard

On Sale $64.99

"An exotic effort, the 2006 Chardonnay Hudson Vineyard exhibits a light straw/green hue as well as boisterous, exuberant notes of buttery tropical fruit and smoky nuts. It is the most flamboyant and showy of these Chardonnays. Enjoy it over the next 4-6 years."
-Rated 93-95/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

2007 L'Aventure Cote a Cote

On Sale $74.99

"Another blockbuster and decadently rich, extravagant expression of winemaking is the 2007 Cote a Cote, a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, and 20% Syrah. An incredible wine, it tips the scales at 15.9% alcohol but is loaded with melted licorice, black currant fruit, sweet, jammy cherries, forest floor, and a bit of pepper and fruitcake notes."
-Rated 95/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

New Releases from France

In Stock & On Sale

The following new releases from France are in stock and on sale at special prices for readers of our e-mail newsletter. Quantities are limited so please act quickly on this special offer.

2007 Milly-Lamartine Macon-Villages "Clos de Four" On Sale $44.99

"Pale gold. Powerful scents of Meyer lemon, lime pith, lees and smoky minerals, plus a strong floral overtone. Fleshy but focused, offering mineral-driven citrus and orchard fruit flavors. Gains weight with air and finishes with notes of bitter quinine and jasmine. A very serious Macon, with plenty of personality and worthy of cellaring."

-Rated 91/100 Steve Tanzer, The International Wine Cellar

2007 Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf du Pape On Sale $49.99

"The wine reveals a dense purple color along with a gorgeous bouquet of camphor, licorice, graphite, sweet red and black fruits, smoked meats, and a hint of charcoal. Full-bodied and pure with plenty of Provencal garrigue and meaty characters, this superb, chewy red should turn out to be their finest effort since the 1998 and 1990."

-Rated 94-96/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

Special Offer

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malts

Bruichladdich was closed down in 1994 with staff released and the machinery left for the harsh weather. There was scant hope of resurrecting it... flash forward to 2001. There's new, vibrant ownership and the bottling line is back in business!

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malt Whisky "Rocks"

On Sale $47.99

"This is our staff favorite "Best Buy" from the Bruichladdich line up. Rocks is a very approachable dram and would be great for someone just starting in out in the whisky world or if you are looking for an every day "Laddie". Of course all of Bruichladdich single malts are non-chill filtered with no caramel or sugar added. So what you get is what comes straight from the cask! The Bruichladdich Distillery was awarded Pioneer of the Year 2007 by the Malt Advocate!"
-Dave Davis, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

Bruichladdich Islay Single Malt "Resurrection Dram"

On Sale $69.99

"Bruichladdich's "Resurrection Dram" is the first spirit to run from the stills under the careful guidance of Jim McEwan. It's made the fashioned way with a slow trickle, distillation method. It's been aged in new oak since that glorious spring day back in '01. It's a lightly peated malt by Islay standards and is ready to enjoy. Golden hay-like color with plenty of fruit, honey, and spice on the nose, It's got subtle flavors of fruit in the mouth along with notes of peat, straw,herbs and sweet barley. It's great!"
-Dave Davis, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

Stone Lithographs

Wine & Spirit Advertising Posters

We have some high-quality, stone lithographs for sale. You may have seen these in our former locations. They're conservation backed on acid-free paper and canvas and professionally framed. Stone lithographs are handmade using a painstaking, ancient process that produces striking, vivid colors and can be produced in large formats. These were originally used for advertising and are recognized today for their quality and artistic value. We do not claim these lithographs as vintage. They are high-quality, true, stone lithographs which is obvious when you see them in person. Many of these were designed by the top artists of the day such as Leonetto Cappiello (1875-1942) and Bernard Villemot (1911-1989). Lithographs are in stock at our original location (20 South Hanley Road in Clayton). Local delivery is available. Some delivery restrictions apply. See store for details.

Great Deals

This Week's Specials

We love a bargain and feel that we need to pass the savings along to our loyal customers. We have some deals for you this week that offer great bang-for-the-buck value. The first is a Malbec from Argentina that really knocked our socks off... the second is a bargain from Spain and finally we have Deutz Champagne on sale this week at a great price. Deutz continues to produce some amazing wines and they remain under the radar of the wine critics which is good news for us wine drinkers! Quantities available are limited so please act quickly on this e-mail offer...

2007 Diseno Malbec Mendoza

On Sale $11.99

Compare to Shop Rite Wine & Spirit's Price of $16.29
"We did a double-take when we first tasted this Malbec from Argentina. Malbec seems to be all the rage lately but we're not impressed with most of the widely-distributed examples that we've tasted recently. This one is different though... and we were really blown away when we saw the price! The wine's color is dark and it really coats your glass. The nose is rich, layered and complex with notes of black fruit and exotic spices. On the palate is has that silkiness that usually comes from a much more expensive bottle. Diseno's Malbec is a new staff favorite."
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

2008 Vega Sindoa Old Vine Garnacha

On Sale $13.49

Compare to Pop's Wine & Spirits Price of $15.20
"This old vine Garnacha (60-100 year old vines) comes from a wine producing region called Navarra which is close to Rioja, Spain's most glorified wine region. We've loved every vintage of this wine from Vega Sindoa and we're amazed that it's remained bargain-priced after years and years of rave reviews from the critics. The '08 has a vibrant color, luscious nose and ripe, complex flavors. The finish is incredibly silky, like what you'd find in a $30-$40 bottle. We're warning you... this always sells out fast so grab some while you can!"
-John Nash, The Wine Merchant, Ltd.

NV Deutz Champagne Brut

On Sale $39.99

Compare to Saratoga Wine Exchange's Price of $50.94
"Though it has mature, slightly toasty aromas, this wine also has great flavors of grapefruit, some lemon peel and a vibrant white fruit character. It is dry, with the clean, fresh acidity going right through to the finish."
-Rated 93/100 The Wine Enthusiast

The Wine Advocate on Deutz
"Admittedly it has been a few years since I last tasted the Deutz Champagnes, so I was not fully prepared for the consistently outstanding quality of virtually all these new releases. Although Deutz has been owned by Roederer since 1992, this is the only property in the group that is run in an autonomous fashion, as the Rouzaud family didn't want to risk losing the estate's unique identity by consolidation winemaking functions. The Deutz Champagnes undergo full malolactic fermentation and at their best offer a polished, creamy style that drinks well early but that can also age."
-The Wine Advocate