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Lot 11  - (6)  750ml bottles Domaine Dujac Gevrey Chambertin Premier Cru, 2003
 
Arguably Burgundy's most respected and acclaimed producer of Gevrey Chambertin, this Premier Cru example from the fine 2003 vintage is one of the most collectible wines worldwide.
 
Donated by:  A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,500
Buy Now: $1,300, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $900

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Lot 12 - A Fabulous One Night, Two-Room Stay at Mohegan Sun and Dinner for Four at the Acclaimed Tuscany Restaurant.
 
In 1996, Mohegan Sun opened its doors to critical acclaim and has yet to dim the lights.  Mohegan Sun and Todd English's Tuscany Restaurant will join hands for an extraordinary stay any Monday -Thursday.  You will savor dinner for four at Tuscany, five extraordinary collector wines including the Cristal Champagne from 1997.  One of the world's rarest white Bordeaux, the Super-Tuscan classic Ornellaia, an extraordinary first-growth Bordeaux and a Grand Cru Sauterne follow.
 
A taste of the Italian countryside can be found at the legendary Mohegan Sun Hotel and Casino! Todd English's Tuscany restaurant serves authentic regional Italian cuisine with an accent on freshness and quality in a lovely setting inspired by the kitchen of an Italian villa.
 
Your one night stay at the Mohegan Sun will include two rooms for two guests each.  Dinner is for four lucky winning bidders.
 
The wines:
 
(1) 750ml Champagne Cristal, 1999, the ultimate collectible.
(1) 750ml Château Laville Haut Brion Blanc, 2000, the rarest of white Bordeaux.
(1) 750ml Château Lafite Rothschild, 1999
(1) 750ml Tenuta dell Ornellaia, 2003
(1) 750ml Domaine Ramonet Batard Montrachet, 1997
(1) 375ml Château Rieussec Sauterne, 2000

Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. Guests will be presented with a $25 per person server gratuity at the conclusion their meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Mohegan Sun and Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $3,200
Buy Now:  $2,800, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $2,400

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Lot 13 - Mystery Box #1 – Think Large
 
Donated by:  A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $7,000
Buy Now:  $6,000, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $5,000

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Lot 14 - An Eight-course Dinner for 12 with 16 of The World's most Acclaimed Wines.  Eight Fabulous Courses.  All Created at Your Residence with Guest Chef Noel Jones of The Polytechnic Club, tonight's Founding Sponsor for the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic paired with wines from the cellar of Ann Donahue. 
 
A true professional, Noel Jones is also a gastronomic explorer, continuously experimenting with new flavors and new techniques to bring excitement to each dish he presents before his guests. His passion for culinary creativity is neatly summed up in his philosophy: "Take classic cuisine and use it as a springboard for the imagination to create new dishes."  Noel will prepare an Eight-course dinner for 12 at your private residence perfectly paired with no less than Sixteen extraordinary wines to be served side-by-side from an impeccable cellar.
 
He will be joined at your private residence by Jim Donahue who will conduct a
tutored tasting of each of the 16 new and old world wines perfectly paired with each course.  Side-by-side. Back-to-back!  We pour. You decide. The wines reflect some of the world's greatest examples of comparable, yet different styles.
 
You will start off with a Champagne reception with passed hors d'oeuvres before moving on to the tasting menu.
 
(1) 750ml bottle Champagne Cristal, 1997. Arguably the world's most coveted.
(1) 750 ml bottle Champagne henri Abele
(1)  750ml bottle Château Laville Haut Brion, 2000. A white Bordeaux rarer than its Reds.
(1) 750 ml bottle Pavillon Blanc du Château Margaux, 1998.
(1) 750 ml bottle La Chablisienne Premier Cru Chablis, 2002.
(1) 750 ml bottle Domaine Mongard Mugneret Grands Echezeaux, 1991
(1) 750 ml bottle Faiveley Nuits St. George, 2002
1) 750 ml bottle Ornellaia 2004. Stunning Super Tuscan.
(1) 750 ml bottle Tignanello, 2003.  Another Super Tuscan of the highest quality.
(1) 750ml bottle Karl Lawrence Cabernet Sauvignon, 2000. A cult Cabernet.
(1) 750 ml bottle Château Mouton Rothschild, 1999
(1) 750 ml bottle Penfolds Cabernet Sauvignon Vin 707, 1997.
(1) 750 ml bottle Yalumba Barossa Shiraz, 1999.
(1) 750 ml bottle Turley Cellars Dogtown Zinfandel
(1) 750ml bottle Martinez Quinta da Eira Velva Port, 1994
(1) 750ml Coutet Barsac, 2001

Restrictions:  Several weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays and the month of August and December. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.
 
The not so fine print:  Additional servings are available at a per person supplement of $250. Please contact us. We apologize, but it will be impossible to make additional wine available due to their extreme rarity.  All food will be prepared and served, in your home by Noel Jones with professional waitstaff.  All necessary dishes, glasses and flatware will be provided.  We will gladly work with you to ensure your menu fits your specific tastes and style.
 
All Wines listed are included.
 
Dinner, service, stemware and equipment donated by:  The Polytechnic Club
 
Wines Donated by:  Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $4,800
Buy Now:  $4,200, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $3,600

Lot 17 - The Ultimate Food and Wine Future Purchase.  A Dinner for Eight at Max restaurant Group's Newest restaurant, Max Fish in Glastonbury.
 
As one of the founding sponsors of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic, Rich Rosenthal and Stephen Abrams' Max Restaurant Group has been built upon a foundation of service, presentation, classic offerings, quality and innovation. It takes pride in doing things well. Very well.
 
Each of the six restaurants in The Max Restaurant galaxy has donated a dinner for eight people tonight. It is the second year they have done so. At the CCMC 2006 inaugural event, dinners at Max Restaurants raised almost $8000 for CCMC programs.  And, each year we pair several wines from the year the restaurants opened their doors.
 
The group includes Max Downtown, (1986) Max-A-Mia (1991), Max-a-More, (1995) Max Oyster Bar (1999), Trumbull Kitchen (2001) and Max Tavern, (2003).
 
Tonight, the last and most unusual Max Restaurant dinner presented an even more unusual challenge pairing wine when it will open in late 2007.
 
So we have taken the proper steps--we will offer seven wines--one from each vintage matching the six restaurant's opening.
 
And to make it truly special, the new Max Fish restaurant dinner wines will be led by the extraordinary Cheval Blanc, 1986, from the cellar of Mark and Tracey Lunenberg.
 
1986 - Cheval Blanc is dark ruby in color, an opulently rich and fruity wine, full bodied, voluptuous and lush. Deceptively easy to drink when young.
 
Wine Spectator rated it 98 points, alluding to a Good concentration of plum, currant and berry aromas. It crams all those characteristics into a surprisingly lithe and elegant structure. This may age past our lifetimes.
Score: 98.  James Suckling, Wine Spectator, June 30, 1989.
 
Oh. Yes, the other wines you ask.  Almost as stunning.
 
1991 - From this vintage comes Robert Parker's 99-point Dominus, 1991.
Clearly the wine of the vintage and the greatest Dominus ever.
 
1995 - From this vintage comes the outstanding Armand Rousseau Chambertin Clos de Beze, one of the greatest red Burgundies from this fabled producer.
 
1999 - From the wonderful 1999 vintage in Bordeaux we will offer the Chateau Mouton Rothschild, 1999, Pauillac
 
"The beautiful 1999 Mouton Rothschild may be a modern day clone of their 1962 or 1985. Its saturated ruby/purple color is followed by sumptuous aromas of cedar wood, crème de cassis, wood smoke, coffee, and dried herbs.  The wine is forward, lush, and full-bodied. It is already complex as well as succulent, fleshy, and long. Tannin in the finish suggests more nuances will emerge in 4-5 years. It is a complex, classic Mouton.
Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030. 93 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate."
 
2001 - Red Bordeaux are clearly the world's most collected wines, but relatively unknown White Bordeaux are more difficult to obtain and are some of the most memorable white wines one would ever enjoy.   From the 2001 vintage one of the world's most stunning Laville Haut Brion (Pessac Leognan): "Citrus, honeysuckle, and white peach characteristics dominate the 2001's waxy bouquet. Big, bold, reserved and tight, but full-bodied, structured, and intense, it should be forgotten for the next 5-6 years. 
Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025." 91+ Points, Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate.
 
2003 - From the 2003 vintage, we've selected one of America's most acclaimed single vineyard Chardonnay's from Kistler, the 2003, Russian River Valley, Dutton Ranch.
 
"Why is it that I always find buttery popcorn, tropical fruit, crème caramel, and almost roasted hazelnuts in the Chardonnays from the Dutton Ranch. The 2003 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch has that and a lot more fruit than is typical. Perhaps the low yields from a vineyard that is known for relatively abundant crops have produced a bit more intensity than usual. This is in-your-face Chardonnay that is not the most subtle wine by any means but Meursault premier cru-like, ripe and heady.
Drink it over the next 3-4 years."  94 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate.
 
The wines alone for this celebratory dinner alone have a current market value of in excess of $3,000.  The winning bidder's will have the opportunity to bring any or all of the wines included with this unbelievable auction dinner to the restaurant, or cellar them for another special occasion..
 
And with three weeks notice, Max restaurant Group will allow the winning bidder to schedule the dinner on a Friday evening.
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. Guests will be presented with a $25 per person server gratuity at the conclusion their meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Friday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
The Wines:
(1) 750 ml Vintage Champagne
(1) 750 ml Château Laville Haut Brion, 2001
(1) 750 ml Kistler Russian River Valley, Dutton Ranch Chardonnay, 2003.
(1) 750 ml Dominus, 1991
(1) 750 ml Armand Rousseau Chambertin Clos de Beze, 1995
(1) 750 ml Château Mouton Rothschild, 1999
(1) 750 ml Château Cheval Blanc, 1986
 
Donated by:  The Max Restaurant Group, Mark and Tracey Lunenberg and Ann Donahue.
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $4,200
Buy Now:  $3,400, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $3,000

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Lot 18 - Mystery Box 2. Cult Wines
 
Donated by:  A Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic Friend
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $7,800
Buy Now:  $6,800, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $6,100

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Lot 19 - Seven stunning examples of John Kongsgaard's finest offerings from 1997-2004.  Another cult wine of extremely limited production.
 
“John Kongsgaard is in search of the Holy Grail and these are among the most interesting, naturally made wines one will find on Planet Earth.”
                                 - Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
 
Fifth-generation Napa natives John and Maggy Kongsgaard produce The Judge, Chardonnay, VioRous, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Shy-bearing vineyards and traditional low-intervention winemaking techniques produce powerful, graceful wines -- high intensity expressions of vineyard and variety. The core of their endeavor is the ten-acre vineyard they planted in the late 1970s on a rocky hilltop in southern Napa Valley which has belonged to the Kongsgaard family since the 1920s. In addition to these family acres, they direct the farming under long-term contract on another seven acres in the Napa Carneros and three acres near St. Helena. The winery, on the eastern rim of Napa Valley, is a cave drilled into the volcanic rock. Production is limited to what they can make with their own hands.
 
CHARDONNAY NAPA VALLEY is grown primarily on the shy-bearing Kongsgaard family vineyard described above. This vineyard gives the wine its dense, minerally core and extravagant honeyed aroma. Small amounts of wine made from two distinguished Carneros vineyards, Hudson and Hyde, are included in the blend, bringing stone fruit and citrus high-notes to the wine. Like The Judge, the Napa Valley Chardonnay is allowed to ferment in new French barrels without any human intervention other than the weekly stirring by hand - no yeast, no bacteria, no fining, no filtration.
 
Reviews:
 
SYRAH NAPA VALLEY is the result of a very gratifying viticultural relationship with the exceptional Carneros grower, Lee Hudson. Hudson has 2.7 acres of volcanic soil (unusual in the Carneros) committed to Syrah, which bear fruit of unique intensity when thinned to one cluster per shoot. Harvested with mature, silky tannins, the wine macerates for six weeks with the skins in the fermentation tank for full extraction of the white pepper, violets, and dark chocolate character typical of the noble Syrah. After evolving for two years in French oak barrels (50% new) and only two rackings, the Syrah is bottled without filtration or fining. The wine is expected to evolve in the bottle for decades.
 
Reviews:
 
Kongsgaard Viognier comes from 1500 Viognier and Roussanne vines grown on the Kongsgaard family vineyard with the extremely low yields typical of the property. The blend is made in the field, and the two varieties are pressed together and barrel fermented in old French oak barrels without the addition of cultured yeast. To achieve the ideal integration of the nearly opposite qualities of these two varieties, the blend differs from year to year and either grape can be the major contributor. Unlike the Chardonnays, the VioRous is bottled after just 10 months in barrel to capture the fresh fruit aromas. The high-toned perfume typical of Viognier is brought down to earth by the rustic Roussanne, creating an exotic, hedonistic wine.
 
(1) 750 ml Kongsgaard Chardonnay, 1997, 94 points
(1) 750 ml Kongsgaard Chardonnay, 2004, 92-94 points
(1) 750 ml Kongsgaard Viognier, 2004, 94 points
(1) 750 ml Kongsgaard Viognier, 2005, 96 points
(1) 750 ml Kongsgaard Syrah, 2001, 94-96 points
 
Arietta is our name for wines born of a passion for music. The name Arietta, meaning short aria or art song, expresses our belief that all great wines must sing. Both wine and song should "take flight," in the course of which the qualities of balance, vibrancy, depth, overtones, and complexity resonate and give us a sense of exaltation.
 
2001 Arietta H Block Red Wine Napa Valley, 94 points
Good saturated ruby-red. Explosive, highly nuanced aromas of currant, dried rose, tobacco, brown sugar, espresso and mint. Silky, lush, dense and penetrating, with uncommon lift in the middle palate. Captivating flavors of currant, spice cake, tobacco and earth. A red blend in a Right Bank style with superb definition and snap. Finishes very long and juicy, with firm but thoroughly ripe tannins. This should gain in bottle for a decade or more.
 
(1) 750 ml Arietta Merlot, 1999 winemaker John Kongsgaard 90 points
(1) 750 ml Arietta Napa Valley Red, H-Block Hudson Vineyard, 2001 94 points
 
Donated by:  Michael and Joan Zaccaro
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,800
Buy Now: $1,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $1,300

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Lot 20 - In Perfect Harmony
 
So you love Bordeaux. Your partner Loves Burgundy.  You both feel that the perfect wine stem enhances the best-of-wines.
 
This lot is for you.
 
It includes two of Riedel's extraordinary 30-plus-ounce Sommeliers Collector series winestems--one Bordeaux and one Burgundy, of course.
 
And yes and a few wines to break in the stems properly.
 
(1) 750 ml Araujo Cabernet Sauvignon.  1998 A California hard-to-find cult classic. For the lover of a left-bank-style American Cabernet. 90 points, Wine Spectator. A single case sold at the 2006 Napa Valley Wine Auction for $6,000. Yup, $6,000.
 
(1) 750 ml Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Grand Cru, 1987.  Stunning 92-point Parker offering drinking perfectly.
 
(1) 750 ml Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue Chambolle-Musigny, 1993 (bottle #61/3200). 94-100 points Parker.
 
(1) 750 ml Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux, 1998.  The rarest-of-White Bordeaux from the extraordinary red Bordeaux producer.  It is a blend of Semillon and Marsanne and is one of the world's most distinctive whites.
 
(1) 750 ml Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Vintage Reserve, 1989. an extraordinary vintage Champagne. 92 points Robert Parker.
 
(1) 750 ml Château Tronquoy Lalande, 1996.  Stunning Saint-Estephe
 
Donated by:  Michael & Joan Zaccaro, Chet & Joyce Humphrey and Brian & Kathy Lindroth
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,500
Buy Now:  $1,200, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $900

Lot 21 - Mystery Box #3 - Left Coast
 
Donated by:  A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $7,000
Buy Now:  $6,000, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $5,000

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Lot 22 - Eight Bottle Collection of Duckhorn Estates Limited Production Wine
 
Duckhorn Wine Company is a collection of small winery estates focused on site-specific wines of distinction from the Napa and Anderson valleys with an unwavering commitment to quality. The Duckhorn Wine Company family includes Duckhorn Vineyards, Paraduxx, and Goldeneye. With grapes selected from more than ten estate vineyards, as well as a variety of sought-after vineyard sites within the Napa and Anderson Valley appellations, each winery is presented with a canvas of lots from which to blend its wines.
 
Duckhorn Vineyards
 
Duckhorn Vineyards has spent a quarter century establishing itself as one of North America's premier producers of Bordeaux varietal wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today.
 
Paraduxx
 
Paraduxx is a unique Napa Valley Red Wine in the tradition of the world's great blends. Its goal is to craft a world-class blend with a distinctly Californian personality by using Zinfandel, a grape synonymous with California, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
 
Goldeneye
 
In 1990, after nearly fifteen years of making world-class Bordeaux style wines, Dan and Margaret Duckhorn embraced their growing passion for Pinot Noir. Their vision for Goldeneye was simple: to craft a distinctively California Pinot Noir of equal stature to their acclaimed Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot.
 
(2) 750 ml Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc, 2006
(1) 750 ml Duckhorn Paraduxx Meritage, 1996
(1) 750 ml Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard Merlot, 1991
(1) 750 ml Goldeneye Pinot Noir, 2000
(1) 750 ml Duckhorn Estate Grown merlot, 1995. Extremely rare single vineyard
(1) 750 ml Duckhorn Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 1993
(1) 750 ml Duckhorn Estate grown Stout Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon.  Impossible to find.
 
Donated by:  Michael and Joan Zaccaro
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,700
Buy Now: $1,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $1,200

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Lot 23 – A Cavi 85 Wine Cave Fully Stocked with 60 Bottles of Worldwide Wines.
 
Donated by:  Mark and Tracey Lunenberg  and A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $4,000
Buy Now:  $3,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $3,000

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Lot 25 - Golf Lessons, Golf, Dinner, Extraordinary Wines at Westerly's Shelter Harbor Course on Saturday, September 15th.
 
Join Brian and Paula Whitney for a Special Golf, Wine Dinner and Accommodations on Saturday, September 15th at Westerly, Rhode Island's top new course--Shelter Harbor.  It is the first private course constructed in Rhode Island in more than 100 years and ranks as one of the 19 of the top 100 new courses in America by Golf Digest Magazine.
 
The priceless Rhode Island Experience Includes:
 
• A lesson for three guests at the Shelter Harbor Course, rated the second best course in Rhode Island's (ahead of the fabled Newport Country Club course, site of the Women's 2006 US Open). The 22-acre practice facility includes six sets of tees and five target greens.
• An 18-hole round of golf for three with caddies on the 7100-yard, 18-hole championship course.
• A 9-hole round of golf for three on the Executive Par 3 course.
• A memorable Six-Course Dinner for the three golfers and their three guests at Shelter Harbor's extraordinary dining room prepared by its acclaimed chef. You will start off with a champagne reception with passed hors d'oeuvres.
 
The following wines will be served with dinner:
 
Champagne Bollinger en Magnum
Château Ramonet Batard-Montrachet
Peter Michael Chardonnay
Phelps Insignia Cabernet Sauvignon
Viking Shiraz
Turley Cellars Zinfandel
Château Rieusses Sauterne
Croft Port
 
Accommodations:  You and your guests will stay at Shelter Harbor's Golf Club's extraordinary, four-bedroom guest cottage that you will have all to yourselves.  The cottage overlooks the first green.
 
Donated by:  Brian and Paula Whitney
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $5,500
Buy Now:  $4,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $3,800

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Lot 26 - Four-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at Chester's Restaurant du Village Featuring Château Mouton Rothschild

Chef owner Cynthia Keller's schedule would not permit her to participate in the second Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic, but her classic Chester, CT restaurant will mark its opening in 1990 with an extraordinary dinner for eight.

The wines will include the phenomenal 1999 Château Mouton Rothschild. It promises to be an extraordinary evening as Cynthia and Michel Keller perfectly pair the wines with seasonal dishes.

The Wines:
(1) 750 ml bottle Champagne Henri Abele
(1) 750 ml bottle Château Pavillion Blanc du Chateau Margaux, 1998
(1) 750 ml bottle Château Laville Haut Brion, 2000
(1) 750 ml bottle Trimbach Clos St. Hune, 2002
(1) 750 ml bottle Faiveley Mercury Premier Cru, 2004
(1) 750 ml bottle Château Mouton Rothschild, 1999

Restrictions: Three weeks notice required. Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.

The fine print: Dinner available Wednesday through Friday, unless restaurant is closed.

Donated by: Restaurant du Village and A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Classic

Pre-Auction Estimate: $1,900
Buy Now: $1,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $1,300

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Lot 27 - Almost Perfect--99-point Château Mouton Rothschild, 1986 and 97-point Pichon Lalalde, 1986.  Two extraordinary producers, one memorable vintage.
 
(1) 750 ml Château Mouton Rothschild Pauillac, 1986.  99-points Wine Spectator
 
"Ageless, yet balanced. Black color. Mint, mineral, berry and cherry.  Full-bodied, chewy and tight. Long, long finish. A great, great wine.--Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.”  Wine Spectator 99 points.
 
Good medium ruby. Currant, currant leaf, cedar and dusty oak on the nose.  Tightly wound and classic, with fabulous acids contributing to its powerful spine. Wonderfully pure and intense, with great verve and grip. But still quite locked up, and hiding its density. Finishes firmly tannic and extremely long. I remember mistaking the '86 Mouton for such international stars as Sassicaia in the early '90s, when it showed greater sweetness, but this wine has been quite shut down for the past several years. The '86 and the '82 appear clearly to be the two greatest vintages for Mouton since the 1959. Drink 2012 through 2040. Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, 95+ Points
 
Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, 1986
 
(1) 750 ml Château Pichon Lalande Reserve de la Comtesse, 1986. 97 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate.  A Soprano's Favorite!
 
Subtle aromas of engaging rich cherry elements that is both dense and lush after lots of swirling. Palate: Soft and sweet style with slightly green character to the finish. Somewhat lighter in mouthfeel. Wine Enthusiast 94 points
 
Tony Soprano called the wine he and Christopher boosted from the Vipers in series Five episode a 1986 Chateau Pichon.  Actually there are two wineries in Pauillac named Pichon-Longueville: Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande and Château Pichon-Longueville Baron. They were part of a single estate until 1860, when they split into the current pair. Both are classified as second-growths.
 
Based on the quick flash shown of the label the wine they boosted was the 1986 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. Robert Parker rates it a 97.
 
The 1986 is the most tannic, as well as the largest-framed Pichon-Lalande in over three decades. Whether it will ultimately eclipse the 1982 is doubtful, but it will be longer-lived. Dark ruby/purple, with a tight yet profound bouquet of cedar, blackcurrants, spicy oak, and minerals, this full-bodied, deeply concentrated, exceptionally well-balanced wine is, atypically, too brawny and big to drink young. Anticipated maturity: 1994-2015.
 
 Wine Spectator rated both the Baron and the Lalande 97, describing the latter as: Amazingly rich and elegant with concentrated and compact fruit, layers of cassis, currant, vanilla and plum flavors and a remarkable aftertaste that is gentle and supple. Has the tannic framework for cellaring until at least 2010.
 
The 1986's are all fabulous wines, but they're also huge, backward, and tannic wines that still need a lot of time in the cellar. Yet, even so, they've all already thrown sediment. You simply can't drink these wines without prior decanting.
 
Donated by:  Mark Coley
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,600
Buy Now: $1,300, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $1,100

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Lot 50 - A Galaxy of Stars, a Stunning 1997 & 1999 Collection

OK so you hit the trifecta--the kids were graduated from college, that special anniversary is coming up and you happen to love the 1997 wine vintage.  Worldwide.

We have prepared the ultimate six-pack celebratory lot.  You could assemble these wines with a dozen hours and a couple thousand dollars. We've made it easy for you.

The wines:
(1) 750 ml bottle Cristal Champagne, 1999. The world's most difficult-to-find cuvee. The Champagne of the vintage. Decanter ****
(1) 750 ml bottle Domaine Ramonet Bienvenue Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru, 1997.  White Burgundy at its greatest. Parker gave it 92 points.
(1) 750 ml bottle Flowers Perennial Red Table Wine. Flowers' first effort to produce a Burgundian-style domestic wine. A top collectible.  W/S 90 points
(1) 750 ml bottle Tignanello, 1997.  A Super Tuscan from the most collected Italian vintage in history. A 95-point reference standard.
(1) 750 ml bottle Argiano Brunello di Montalcino, 1997.  A 96-point classic.
(1) 750 ml bottle Hartwell Cabernet Sauvignon, 1997. Their greatest vintage ever.
 
Donated by:  A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,800
Buy Now: $1,600, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $1,400

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Lot 1033 - Five-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at Avon’s Max-a-Mia Featuring a Super Tuscan Tignanello
 
When Rich Rosenthal and Steven Abrams’s second restaurant, Max-a-Mia, opened in 1991, it was named “Best New Restaurant” by Connecticut Magazine in its first year, and “top-grossing restaurant in its size” by Restaurant Hospitality.  More than a decade later, and twice its original size, Max A Mia is the quintessential Italian experience in the Greater Hartford area. It also continues to garner awards and accolades. The Hartford Advocate crowned it a “Best Italian Restaurant” in 2004 and Zagat’s Survey awarded it an “excellent” score of 23.

A five-course seasonal dinner menu will be paired with four top wines which will include:
 
(1) 750 ml Groth Sauvignon Blanc, 2005
(1) 750 ml Sans Permis Chardonnay, 2004 (92 points)
(1) 750 ml Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, 1991. A cult Classic
(1) 750 ml Tignanello, 2003. Top Super Tuscan 92 points
(1) 750 ml Martin Ray Winery Meritage, 1991
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Max-a-Mia and A Friend of The Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,900
Buy Now:  $1,700, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,600

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Lot 1035 - Viking 30” Wide Premium Gas Grill
 
The Viking Premium 30 inch wide grill comes with two 25,000 BTU stainless steel grill burners produce intense searing heat across entire grilling surface. An extra-deep sealed burner box keeps heat contained in burner area, allowing easier temperature maintenance. Easy push-button electronic ignition powered by a 9-volt battery provides a positive, consistent, and continuous spark for easy grill lighting.
 
The Stainless steel flavor-generator plates catch drippings, generate smoke, minimize flare-ups, and allow for better heat control. The chrome plated warming rack - reinforced by stainless steel rack supports - can easily be adjusted to three different positions, allowing use of additional accessory racks. The grill also comes with a thermometer located on canopy indicates the best zones for warming, smoking, and grilling
 
Easy Maintenance and Cleanup
No assembly is required. Grease management system consists of full-width removable stainless steel drip tray Extra heavy-duty cooking grids are porcelain-coated to prevent food from easily sticking to them; the virtual non-stick surface creates optimal cooking areas, while also creating an easy-to-clean surface Burners are equipped with stainless steel drip guards to combat burner clog and to aid grease management by channeling the liquids to the drip tray, which assists in flare-up control
 
Exclusive Finishes
Available in Stainless Steel (SS)
 
Warranty Highlights*
One-year full covers all outdoor products - In-home repairs.
Ninety-day limited - cosmetic parts such as painted items and decorative items.
Lifetime limited - rust through on all stainless steel components and porcelain grill grates.
 
Donated by:  Delia, Inc.
 
Pre-Auction Value:  $2,100
Buy Now:  $1,700, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,400

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Lot 1036 - Four-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at Hartford’s Trumbull Kitchen.
 
Partner and Executive Chef Chris Torla has created a globally eclectic menu that emphasizes intense flavors and satisfying textures. Progressive cross-cultural dishes offer variations of familiar food from around the world. Chris’ menu features a collection of tasters and tapas as well as larger plates and entrées.

Custom designed elliptical light fixtures give off a warm glow, accenting the leather-upholstered walls detailed with satin aluminum nail heads. A smaller loft dining room overlooks the restaurant and is enclosed by French glass doors.

A mosaic theme is carried from the bar to the kitchen by way of a colorfully tiled floor and opaque glass wall, which provides a partial view into kitchen. Other notable bar attributes include two communal “family style” tables and floor to ceiling mirrors behind the bar.

Wines include:
 
(1) 750 ml bottle Juslyn Alec's Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003
(1) 750 ml bottle J. Davies Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003
(1) 750 ml bottle La Chablisienne Cuvee LC, 2003
(1) 750 ml bottle Groth Sauvignon Blanc, 2005
(1) 750 ml bottle Sur Luchtel Meritage, 2003
(1) 750 ml bottle Tignanello, 2003
 
The wines will be perfectly paired with Chris’ seasonal creations.
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Trumbull Kitchen and Supporters of CCMC
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,400
Buy Now - $1,300, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,200

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Lot 1037 - Highly Rated, Excellent Value Tempranillo
 
If you're a fan of that perfect summer drinking wine, the 2005 vintage Cueto Seleccion Rioja from the 2005 vintage will be the right choice. "An example of the gains made in Tempranillo vintages, this Rioja shows structure and finesse. Best from 2008-2010." 89 points. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate.
 
 (12) 750 ml bottles Cueto Seleccion Rioja, 2005
 
Donated by:  A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $240
Buy Now:  $200, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $180

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Lot 1038 - Four-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at West Hartford’s Max’s Oyster Bar with World Class Wines from The 1999 Vintage
 
In its freshman year, 1999, Max’s Oyster Bar was awarded “Best New Restaurant” by Connecticut Magazine. Since then it has won numerous Reader’s Choice Awards, including “Best Seafood Restaurant” in 2003 and 2005. Zagat’s Survey has also given Max’s Oyster Bar an “extraordinary” rating of 26.

Featuring modern renditions of classic American seafood, Max’s Oyster Bar menu has something for everyone. While seafood is the focal point, there are selections for even the most ardent landlubber. Ethnic influences are apparent throughout a menu filled with new interpretations on traditional fare. The raw bar offers an extensive variety of bi-coastal oysters and shellfish.

To celebrate the restaurants opening, a four-course seasonal dinner menu will be paired with seven outstanding wines from 1999. 
 
Wines will include:
(1) 750 ml Champagne Henri Abele
(1) 750 ml La Dent Chien Chassagne-Montrachet, 1999
(1) 750 ml Voss Sauvignon Blanc, 1999
(1) 750 ml Clos Pegase Meritage, 1999
(1) 750 ml Juslyn Cabernet Sauvignon, 1999.  94 points RP
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Max Oyster Bar and Supporters of CCMC
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,800
Buy Now:  $1,600, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,500

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Lot 1039 - An “All-In-The-Family” Sports Package
 
Two sky box seats to the UCONN vs. Maine game September 8th game at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.
 
Two seats to the Mohegan Sun Sky Box above the 18th Green at the 2007 Travelers Championship including complimentary food and beverage in the box valid one of the seven dates of the tournament to be held June 18-24, 2007.
 
An ESPN eight-foot banner signed by ESPN television and radio personalities as well as guests.  Donated by ESPN.
 
A handcrafted ESPN cigar humidor.
 
Donated by:  ESPN and Jim Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,500
Buy Now:  $1,200, please contact Lori Lawlor at Lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,000

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Lot 1040 - Antinori Tignanello 2003

One of the top Super Tuscans, Antinori's Tignanello is one of original Italian "meritage" blends of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.

Intense ruby red color with light garnet hues. Complex and nicely harmonious aromas of tobacco, curry powder and blackberry and blackcurrant jam. A mouthfilling deliquescent sensation on the silky palate enhances the sweetness making the 2003 vintage a very stylish version of the Tignanello. A light hint of sweet, nicely rounded tannins in the finish make the wine more persistent.

Subtle and complex aromas of licorice, dried flowers and currant follow through to a full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a tar and berry aftertaste. Wine Spectator 91 Points.

(3) 750 ml bottles Antinori Tignanello, 2003

Donated by: A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic

Pre-Auction Estimate: $330
Buy Now: $280, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $240

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Lot 1041 - Four-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at Simsbury's Metro Bis Featuring Wines from the 1998 Vintage.
 
Metro Bis' acclaimed chef Chris Prosperi, from Simbury's fine dining destination restaurant, will prepare an extraordinary seasonal dinner menu for eight with some of the world's greatest wines. Opened in 1998, Metro Bis will feature five wines from that vintage:

 The wines:
 

(1) 750 ml Pavillon Blanc du Château Margaux, 1998
(1) 750 ml Château Beaucastel Châteauneuf du Pape, 1998
(1) 750 ml T-Vine Santa Barbara Syrah, 1998 (467 case production)
(1) 750 ml Domaine de Puligny Montrachet, 1998
(1) 750 ml Malescot St. Exupery Margaux, 1998

 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. Guests will be presented with a $25 per person server gratuity at the conclusion their meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by: Metro Bis and Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,600
Buy Now:  $1,300, please contact Lori Lawlor at Lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,100

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Lot 1042 - Fine Italian Wines from the 1992 - 1996 Vintages

A rare opportunity to acquire a wonderful collection of some of Italy's most coveted Italian Superstars from pristine storage for that memorable wine tasting. See where the Italian's made those stunning gains matching vinification techniques with terroir from 1990-1996 to rise to the top of worldwide collectibles. Headed by the extraordinary Super Tuscans Sassicaia, Solaia and Tignanello, you'll explore the depth and range of the best-of-Italy with Argiano's Brunello di Montalcino, one of the top-shelf Barolo's from Pio Cesare and Foradori's Granato Teroldego, the centuries-old producer of one of the most popular Trentino wines that rarely crosses the pond. Gambero Rossi rates Italian wines each year and its critics are the world's most respected and toughest, rating wines on a zero to three glasses rating. Three of the wines that follow rated Italy's highest--three glasses.

(1) 750 ml bottle Foradori Granato, 1996. 3 glasses from Gambero Rosso.
(1) 750 ml bottle Argiano Brunello di Montalcino,1994
(1) 750 ml bottle Pio Cesare Barolo, 1994
(1) 750 ml bottle Marchesi Incisa Rocchetta Sassicaia 1992. Robert Parker 93 points. 3 glasses from Gambero Rosso
(1) 750 ml bottle Antinori Solaia, 1996. 3 glasses from Gambero Rosso.
"The Solaia '96, made from Cabernet Sauvignon plus 20 % Sangiovese, continues to be one of the greatest wines of Tuscany. This version is powerful, rich, and elegant, one of the best ever."
(1) 750 ml bottle Tignanello, 1996

Donated by: Chet and Joyce Humphrey

Pre-Auction Estimate: $1,300
GambreroBuy Now: $1,100, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $900

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Lot 1043 - An Evening for Six at Jack's American Bistro & Wine Bar in Old Saybrook.
 
You'll enjoy the extraordinary cuisine from jack Flaws who opened his restaurant and wine bar on Main Street in Old Saybrook in 1995 and has expanded to include one of the most visited hot dog stands in town, serving an ethereal lobster hot dog.
 
You will enjoy a dinner for six including four extraordinary wines that jack will pair with your dinner any Monday through Thursday evening.
 
The Hartford Courant Review, Published: 7/28/05:
If you have been wondering what happened to Max Downtown's longtime chief chef Jack Flaws, let it be known he is alive and well and cooking up a storm down in Old Saybrook.
 
But this time, the self-assured chef is working for himself at Jack's American Bistro and Wine Bar, his own Main Street eatery.
 
The American-style bistro is a rich decorative blend of burgundy, black and brocade. Windows along one side of the 16-table dining room offer a clear view of the equally attractive bar and cafe portion of the restaurant. Soft jazz sets the mood for a pleasant lunch or romantic dinner.
 
And then there is the food. Flaws didn't make any mistakes despite changing kitchens.
 
But the winning food he is delivering to tables shows he is dead serious about his profession. It's a nice blend.
 
New York Times Review:
UNTIL recently, a bistro meant a small, French neighborhood restaurant serving hearty, traditional cuisine. The menus at bistros vary by region, but you're likely to find certain standards like calves liver, frisée salad with a hot bacon vinaigrette and crème caramel.
 
I wouldn't call bistros casual except in comparison to three-star restaurants -- the French have a way of bringing decorum to their cuisine whatever the site -- but the aesthetic is simplicity. Straightforward home cooking, simply presented.
 
Restaurants calling themselves ''American Bistros'' have been making their way into this part of Connecticut. Like its counterpoint in France, the American bistro is a small neighborhood restaurant, but the cuisine is usually some interpretation of new American, a weaving of global ingredients and techniques.
 
Jack's in Old Saybrook, named for its young chef and owner, Jack Flaws, is a recent addition to the genre. Mr. Flaws describes his cuisine as ''global comfort food,'' a nonfussy blend of different ethnicities.
 
Mr. Flaws already has the appetizers down cold. The dishes are fresh and stylish, and the elements weave together beautifully. Tuna tartare is seasoned with fresh ginger, soy sauce and the right amount of lime to brighten it without obscuring the flavor of the fish; wasabi mayonnaise adds appropriate heat. Lightly seared, paper-thin slices of steak tartare ring a salad of thin-sliced fennel and green beans dressed in a creamy, subtly piquant dressing, with shaved Manchego cheese.  Jack's is a serious restaurant and the food asks to be taken seriously.
 
The wines:
(1) 750 ml Henri Abele Champagne
(1) 750 ml Sans Promis Chardonnay, 2004
(1) 750 ml Juslyn Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002
(1) 750 ml Tignanello, 2003
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. Guests will be presented with a $25 per person server gratuity at the conclusion their meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Jack's American Bistro and Wine Bar and Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,200
Buy Now:  $1,000, please contact Lori Lawlor at Lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $800

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Lot 1045 - Four-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at Acqua Oyster Bar and Grill in Vernon featuring Wines from 2001 – 2005 Vintages
 
In 2003, a fresh, new dining concept was introduced to Connecticut diners at Acqua Oyster Bar & Grill in Vernon, Connecticut starting an exciting dining renaissance.
 
Acqua was rated “Best New Restaurant” in 2005 by Connecticut Magazine, “Best New Connecticut Restaurant” in 2005 by Hartford Magazine and received the “Platinum Plate Award” from TV Diner (NECN) in 2005.
 
Acqua’s menu features intriguing interpretations of appetizers, salads, and main courses with fresh fish, along with prime cuts of meat and an encompassing fine selection of wine, beer and an award winning martini menu.  Acqua also features central Connecticut’s largest working raw bar displaying classic shellfish, exotic oysters, and fish selections with an Asian influence.
 
Acqua's talented staff will prepare passed hors d’oeuvres at a private reception followed by a five-course seasonal dinner to be paired with the following six wines:
 
(2) 375 ml Caymus Conundrum, White Meritage, 2004
(1) 750 ml Jade Mountain Paras Vineyard Viognier, Mt. Veeder, 2004
(1) 750 ml Willamette Valley Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2005
(1) 750 ml Juslyn Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002
(1) 750 ml Taz Santa Barbara Syrah, 2001
(1) 750 ml La Chablisienne Cuvee LC Chardonnay, 2003
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. Guests will be presented with a $25 per person server gratuity at the conclusion their meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Acqua Oyster Bar and Grill and Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,400
Buy Now:  $1,100, please contact Lori Lawlor at Lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $900

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Lot 1047 - Carmen Anthony Restaurants Dinner for Eight at your choice of location with New and Old-World featuring Opus One's Newest Release.

Carmen Anthony Vacalebre is a lifelong resident of Waterbury. When the "business bug" bit Carmen, he decided to try his hand at the restaurant business, and joined a growing national chain, which sent him off to college... and thus, armed with his degree in "Hamburgerology" from McDonald's University, his career began.

In May of 1996, Carmen realized a lifelong dream with the opening of his first upscale restaurant, Carmen Anthony Steakhouse. His attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality immediately established the steakhouse as one of Connecticut's most popular and successful restaurants, garnering awards and kudos from critics and customers alike.

In the Summer of 1998, Carmen Anthony Fishhouse opened in historic Woodbury, and Carmen Anthony Fishhouse of Avon opened on June 22, 1999! Soon to follow, location number four, Carmen Anthony Fishhouse of Wethersfield, opened in June, 2000. And the second steakhouse...the company's fifth Connecticut location... Carmen Anthony Steakhouse of New Haven opened at 660 State Street in New Haven in November of 2004. We are pleased to offer an extraordinary wine dinner for eight at any one of the Carmen Anthony Group restaurants. The group will offer dinner for eight in your choice of Carmen Anthony restaurants. The following rare wines, from one of the country's top collectors and cellared in pristine conditions, will pair with your dinner.

The wines:
(1) 750 ml bottle Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc, 2004
(1) 750 ml bottle La Chablisienne Grand Cuvee, Premier Cru Chablis, 2002
(1) 750 ml bottle Lewis Cellars Russian River Valley Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 2004
(1) 750 ml bottle Faiveley Mercury Clos des Myglands Premier Cru, 2004
(1) 750 ml bottle Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, 2000
(1) 750 ml bottle Opus One, 2003

Restrictions: Three weeks notice required. Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.

The fine print: Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.

Donated by: Carmen Anthony Restaurant Group and a Friend of The Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic

Pre-Auction Value: $1,800
Buy Now: $1,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $1,200

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Lot 1048 - Dinner at the Newest Old Saybrook Restaurant--The Back Porch for 10 Guests.
 
A dinner for 10 prepared by the Danny Fortin of The Back Porch Restaurant, Mezzanine and Marquee Events and Catering at 960 MAIN.  Danny will prepare a five-course menu for 10 guests featuring a Champagne reception with passed hors d'oeuvres and with six additional top wines paired by noted collectors and Friends of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic.
 
The wines include:
Champagne Henri Abele
Groth Sauvignon Blanc
Mer Soleil Chardonnay,
Willamette Vineyards Pinot Noir
Twomey Merlot, 2003
Juslyn Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet
Tignanello, the Super Tuscan,
 
A surprise dessert will round out an extraordinary evening.
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.
 
Dinner Donated by:  The Back Porch Restaurant, Mezzanine and Marquee Events and Catering
 
Wines Donated by:  Friends of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,800
Buy Now:  $1,600, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,300

Lot 1049 - (6) 750ml bottles Juslyn Vineyard Select Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002

Robert Parker says Juslyn makes one of the finest wines on Howell Mountain.

When British ex-patriots Perry and Carolyn Butler moved to California in 1982, they never dreamed they would own 42 acres of prime vineyard land in the heart of Napa Valley. They arrived in California as high-tech pioneers and founded their own computer company in the San Francisco Bay area. After routine 80-hour work weeks, the couple relaxed during weekend trips to Napa Valley, where they were bitten by the wine bug. Dreams of high-tech dominance soon turned to thoughts of returning to the land and grape growing.

In 1997, their dream became a reality when Perry and Carolyn sold their computer business and founded Juslyn Vineyards on a site overlooking the renowned Spring Mountain Winery. (The name, Juslyn, is derived from the names, Justine-the Butlers' daughter-and Carolyn.) In 1998, they made their first vintage of Juslyn from grapes purchased from Andy Beckstoffer as they waited patiently for their own vines to mature. Their patience paid in 2000, when they were able to harvest their estate for the first time to produce 80 cases of Spring Mountain cabernet sauvignon.

Since then, there has been no turning back. Perry and Carolyn have committed to making the best wine possible in the heart of Napa Valley's acclaimed Spring Mountain District. Having received 90+points from accredited publications like Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (December 2003) and Wine and Spirits Magazine (August 2004), the Butler's are proving that they are on the path of success and truly living the American dream.

"Sleek, smooth and focused, powerful but elegant, this wine shows vivid blackberry, plum, anise, sage, chocolate and spice flavors all couched in classy oak. Tannins are firm and fine, providing structure and finesse." 93 Points The Wine Enthusiast.

2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Select:
An inconsistent vintage, especially in the mountain vineyards, is outstanding. Made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, it exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, firm, austere tannin (a characteristic of the vintage), and complex notes of tobacco leaf, cedar wood, black currants, and earth. Dense and medium to full-bodied, with outstanding purity, it admirably balances elegance with power. 93 points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

Donated by: A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic

Pre-Auction Estimate: $640
Buy Now: $540, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $440

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Lot 1078 - Château Margaux from two Fine Vintages
 
The extraordinary first growth is offered tonight in two fine vintages from the 1978 and 1981 releases.  If you are a fan of older, massive, silky Bordeaux you have two vintages to select.
 
Château Margaux, 1981
 
"In weight and texture, the 1981 Margaux is closest in style to the 1979. It is an outstanding wine, even in the company of the monumental wines of 1982, 1983, and 1986, although it does not have the power and weight of these vintages. It is still very dark ruby/purple-colored. The aromatics suggest ripe cassis fruit, spicy vanillin oakiness, and violets. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, concentrated, tannic, and extremely long. It is just beginning to open and evolve. Anticipated maturity: Now-2015." Robert Parker 91 points
 
"The other wine of the vintage. Seriously powerful with fabulous color and mint, cassis and berry aromas and flavors. Has a full body and is tannic; still needs time to come around. Wine Spectator 95 points
 
(1) 750ml Château Margaux, 1981
 
Château Margaux, 1978
 
Although the 1978 is a more powerful, fuller-bodied style of Margaux, it is less charming and fruity than the 1979. The 1978's nose has moved from one of ripe fruit and spicy oak, to tarry, truffle, earthy aromas that come across as slightly too masculine and meaty. Nevertheless, this is a rich, full-bodied, concentrated Margaux that only suffers in comparison with the great vintages produced under the Mentzelopoulos regime. Some of its rusticity may be due to tannins that were not totally ripe during the harvest. In any event, it remains one of the few great wines from the 1978 vintage. While I initially thought it would be fully mature within two decades of the vintage, it could still benefit from another 3-4 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2020. 92 Points. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate.
 
(1) 750ml Château Margaux, 1978
 
Donated by:  Chet and Joyce Humphrey & Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,350
Buy Now:  $1,050, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $850

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Lot 1079 - Dinner for Eight at Avon's Bosc Kitchen & Wine Bar
 
Bosc Kitchen and Wine Bar has emerged as a west-of-the-river star offering a menu of exceptional variety, quality and depth.  You'll enjoy a diner for eight with wines paired by Bosc's talented staff any Monday through Thursday evening.
 
By Michael Gannon, The Hartford Courant:
 
As regular readers know, I'm big on Hartford. My relentless promotion of the city ranges from shrill to shameless. But halfway through my dinner at Bosc, I grudgingly admitted that Avon may not be all that bad. Fifteen minutes from downtown and there I was, sipping an exceptional glass of wine on a graceful terrace, taking in a stunning view of Talcott Mountain and wincing at the thought of having to leave.
 
Bosc serves its dishes with poise and warmth in a simple, serene atmosphere.  In a way, it's a brochure for the charms of wealthy suburban dining - educated, indulgent cuisine, a design that provides comfort and privacy and a staff that waits on you hand and foot without the irritating tinge of subservience I too often see in upscale restaurants.
 
You'll pay for your pleasure, but it's worth it. On one evening, I ordered a chocolate sampler for $14, a seemingly steep tariff for a dessert. But a first bite of chocolate mousse brought a wide grin to my face and a forkful of ganache was so fantastic, I squealed like a piglet and banged my knees vigorously on the underside of the table. Not since the flawless desserts of Kent's Belgique have I seized upon tasting a dessert, and at Bosc I found it, nearly two hours closer to home. This dessert alone may have won Bosc its four stars.
 
Of course, there are more good things to eat and many of them. Tuna tartare is fresh, cool and delightful; foie gras with bee pollen is sweet and rich and perfect, and I am someone who nearly always detests foie gras. There are several bright, delicate salads and a crab cake that bucks the dish's monotony with a fragrant dose of lobster.
 
Entrees also dazzled the table. The kitchen does nearly everything well - exceptions were few and hardly worth mentioning. From the New York strip to the rack of lamb, quality is carefully monitored and the simplicity of the meat's flavor often predominates over its accompanying flavors. For example, my favorite dish was the pan-seared duck breast. The black fig reduction was bright and fabulous, and the toasted barley carried a nutty flavor that I welcomed as an uncommon side, but the duck itself is what impressed. With extravagant preparation, it's too easy to forget that duck has any flavor at all save a slight gaminess. At Bosc, I remembered the merits of duck itself, and that made for an extremely satisfying meal.
 
True to Bosc's dual role as a "kitchen and wine bar," the wine list is worth exploring. We enjoyed a perfect bottle on both of our visits, one of which a friend claimed was half the cost he'd seen at other restaurants. I also perused the cleverly crafted list of after-dinner drinks and sampled the Massenez William Pear, that bottle of brandy you may have seen with the whole pear floating inside. There's no more appropriate way to finish a meal at Bosc than with a drink that, like the restaurant itself, accentuates the finest points of a pear - it is sweet but not insipid, tart but not caustic, familiar in flavor, yet pleasantly surprising. I highly recommend you visit Bosc for your next memorable meal.
 
Restaurant Dinner Hours: Monday-Thursday 5:30 pm – 9:00 p.m.
 
Donated by:  Bosc Kitchen & Wine Bar
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,200
Buy Now:  $900, please contact Lori Lawlor at Lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $800

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Lot 1990 – Four-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu for Eight at Glastonbury’s Max Amore
 
Established in 1995, Max Amore is located in the growing center of Glastonbury. Max Amore was rated “Best New Restaurant” in 1995 by Connecticut Magazine. Its northern Italian cuisine has earned it three “Reader?s Choice” awards and a Zagat’s Survey “very good” score of 21.

To celebrate the restaurant's opening 12 years ago, a four-course seasonal dinner menu will be paired with the following wines. 
 
Wines include:
(1) 750 ml Babcock Mt. Carmel Chardonnay, 1995
(1) 750 ml Tignanello, 2003
(1) 750 ml Frescobaldi Benefizio Pomino Bianco, 2001
(1) 750 ml Frescobaldi Lamaione Merlot, 1995. Masseto-like
(1) 750 ml Allegrini La Poja, 1995  94-points, Parker
(1) 750 ml Champagne Henri Abele
 
Restrictions:  Three weeks notice required.  Date and time to be determined by mutual agreement. Blackout dates apply to major holidays. Gratuity not included. A $25 per guest gratuity charge for service will be presented at the conclusion of the meal.
 
The fine print:  Dinner available Monday through Thursday, unless restaurant is closed.
 
Donated by:  Max Amore and Ann Donahue
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $1,700
Buy Now:  $1,500, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $1,400

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Lot 2006 – Wine Spectator's 2006 Wine of the Year

Each year Wine Spectator Magazine evaluates more than 30,000 bottles for its
Top 100 Wines. Finding a Top 100 wine when the list is released is
virtually impossible. Finding the Wine of year is a daunting task, unless
you are here tonight.

The wine is the Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino, 2001.
Its average rating is 97 and its production is miniscule.
You can acquire it at the Napa Valley Wine Auction this weekend for $1000 or
you can acquire it here.

Donated by: Paul and Marijean Achilli

Pre-Auction Estimate: $360
Buy Now: $360, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: None

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Lot 7400 - Rare Bollinger Champagne in 3-Liter Format

(1) Bollinger NV Brut Special Cuvee 3.0L

The Bollinger style is always rich, food friendly and impressive. This wine is all of those things, with power and intensity of flavor along with ripe fruit, a layer of toastiness and a dry aftertaste. This is a style of wine that can take even more bottle aging.
Wine Enthusiast 94 points (Editor's Choice)

Complex aromas and flavors of rose, grilled nuts, citrus and a gently oxidative note course through this muscular, full-bodied bubbly. Despite its power, there's a gracefulness. The aftertaste combines citrus and spice. Drink now through 2010. 10,000 cases imported. 200 3.0L format. Wine Spectator 93 Points

Donated by: A Friend of the Connecticut Culinary Masters Classic

Pre-Auction Estimate: $480
Buy Now: $410, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid: $360

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Lot 14366 - Large Format Merlot  for That Larger-than-Expected Cookout.
 
(1) 3-L Fourteen Hands Merlot, 2002
 
Have 24 guests for that cookout?  Here you have a double magnum of Washington State Merlot that will give you 64 glasses.
 
With a top winemaker who honed his skills at Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest, two wonderful value, wineries, Keith Kenison has developed his own style.
 
The highly acclaimed wines of Washington state are known for their bold, fruit forward flavors. Each vineyard site has its own defining flavor characteristics, and their goal is to capture that essence in each bottle. These wines showcase the ripe, juicy and rich fruit qualities from vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills.
 
Keith Kenison is winemaker for 14 Hands Winery. He firmly believes that wine should express the fruit and place from which they came.  In making 14 Hands wine he strives to pull out the distinct fruit characteristics unique to the Horse Heaven Hills. Continually walking the vineyards and tasting fruit, Keith hand crafts soft reds that capture the essence of the  Horse Heaven Hills.
 
Donated by:  Allan S. Goodman
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $150
Buy Now:  $120, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $110

Lot 15092 - Three-Liter Cabernet Sauvignon  from Fourteen Hands, Washington
 
(1) 3-L Fourteen Hands Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002
 
A  double magnum of Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon is the Ultimate-Party-Bottle.
 
With a top winemaker who honed his skills at Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest, two wonderful value, wineries, Keith Kenison has developed his own style.
 
The highly acclaimed wines of Washington state are known for their bold, fruit forward flavors. Each vineyard site has its own defining flavor characteristics, and their goal is to capture that essence in each bottle. These wines showcase the ripe, juicy and rich fruit qualities from vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills.
 
Keith Kenison is winemaker for 14 Hands Winery. He firmly believes that wine should express the fruit and place from which they came.
In making 14 Hands wine he strives to pull out the distinct fruit characteristics unique to the Horse Heaven Hills. Continually walking the vineyards and tasting fruit, Keith hand crafts soft reds that capture the essence of the  Horse Heaven Hills.
 
Donated by:  Allan S. Goodman
 
Pre-Auction Estimate:  $180
Buy Now:  $140, please contact Lori Lawlor at lori@ccmc2007.org or 203-457-9791.
Minimum Bid:  $120