Italy & Portugal on Friday; Thanksgiving Picks on Sat

Well, it is that time of year to gather around friends and family, relax, and open a good bottle of wine or share a sip of whiskey.

Remember, it is next to impossible to make the perfect pairing between the feast of Thanksgiving meal and your wine. There are simply too many flavors to match up. You want to choose wines that are simple and fun, and could be drunk on their own like a French Gamay or a Pinot Gris from Oregon.

Come check out our Thanksgiving Selections table with our Picks for Turkey Day.

Please note: We will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Wednesday, November 26, we will be open regular hours, 9am-9pm.

Friday, November 21, 4-7pm

European Wines with Fatima & Natalie

The wines of Tre Monti, Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Today we will feature two new wines from Tre Monti, both of which are “Frizzante”, or slightly sparkling. I have yet to try them and am very excited to sample them. We have carried five of their wines over the years, all of which have scored high marks.

Tre Monti Pignoleto Frizante $12.99
Tre Monte Barbera Frizzante $12.99
Tre Monte Campo di Mezzo Sangiovese $14.99

Thanksgiving Selections from around Europe

Bassi Pignoleto $13.99
Kuentz-Bas Alsace Blanc $14.99
Avaleda Follies Red Touriga Nacional/Cabernet Sauvignon $9.99

Wines to pair with (you guessed it) Thanksgiving!

The dusting of snow on the ground this morning brought to life the stark realization: Thanksgiving is less than two weeks away! With all the warm weather this Fall, this Holiday Season has crept up rather quickly. So if you feel a little behind and stressed, come on in and let us make it easy on you. Our friendly staff is here to help pick out wines for your family gatherings and to highlight the new and exiting elixirs that fill our shelves.

We also have some great Thanksgiving specials going on featuring some of your favorite products including Woodbridge 1.5s and Dewar’s Scotch 1.75s. Check out our vast selection and let us bring your purchases out to your vehicle for you.

Friday from 4-7

Thanksgiving Selections

with Jenny of Sage Cellars

Arbor Hill Riesling 2013 $14.99

Truchard Roussanne 2012 $22.99

Bridge Lane Chardonnay 2013 $14.99

Miali Primativo 2011 $17.99

Mike & Molly Zinfandel 2010 $34.99

Saturday from 2-5

Upstream Wines from Lodi, California

with Ricardo from Fox Point Wines

Chardonnay 2012 $13.99

Cabernet Franc 2012 $16.99

Zinfandel 2012 $16.99

Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 $16.99

Oh how taste buds change!

My wife and I celebrated our 15 year Anniversary together yesterday with our children at our favorite Pub, Doherty’s East Ave Cafe in Pawtucket. With over 80 beers on draft and delicious everyday fare in a kid-friendly environment, our family and friends have been going there for a decade.

But as we ordered $12 limited release brews in small brandy snifters, my wife always likes to recall the days in college when we first met. “The only beer I will ever drink is Budweiser!” I used to proudly exclaim. Wow, how times have changed. There still is a time and a place for an icy cold Bud, in my opinion: In the bleachers at Fenway on a hot July afternoon. Otherwise, I prefer a hoppy IPA or dark Belgian Ale, to name a few.

And certainly my wine palate has evolved over time as well. One of our first dates in Boston was at Top of the Hub, the restaurant at the top of the Prudential Center, on a cold, snowy night. Because of the weather, we were one of only two tables in the place. Usually, there would be at least an hour wait to get in. Upon ordering a bottle of their finest White Zinfandel, the waiter placed the cork in front of me and poured a minuscule amount of wine into my glass. After several awkward seconds of him staring at me, waiting for me to sniff and sample the wine, I said, “You’re going to fill my glass all the way up, right?” Thankfully, due to the lack of a crowd, the usually pretentious waiter cracked a smile and explained the procedure of testing the first sip of wine before pouring it for the rest of the table. Now, if the waitstaff didn’t allow me to sniff the wine before it was poured out around the table I would have a complete meltdown!

So while it’s great to go back and revisit the things we loved 15 years ago, it is also wonderful to sample new things and surprise our taste buds with delight. Hopefully, we will see you this weekend and maybe you will find something new to love.

And Hon, I still love you!

Abramo is back on Friday; URI vs Maine on Saturday!

When one thinks of the great wines of Piemonte in Northwestern Italy, you invariably reminisce about the powerful Nebbiolo grape that produces Barolo and Barbaresco. In regards to whites, Arneis and Gavi (made from the Cortese grape) come to mind. There are dozens of other grapes planted there, however. Tonight, we shall explore two of these grapes, Timorasso for white, and Barbera for red. To do this, we will enlist the help of two of our friends, Abramo and winemaker Paolo Ghislandi of Cascina Carpeni.

Paolo, along with his daughter Camilla, own a small, family operated winery in the town of Tortona. This is their first visit to the US and the only state they are exploring is little Rhody.

Speaking of Rhody, this Saturday, I will attend my first URI football game. While they might not be having the best year, record-wise, they at least have a team. My alma mater, Boston University, disbanded their team the year after my wife and I graduated. We did seem to be two of only a couple of fans there. Oh well. Go Rhody!

For the beer lovers, come on in Saturday from 4-6 and fall into the season with Newport Storm Octoberfest.

Friday, October 24, 4-7pm

Cascina Carpeni
Piemonte, Italy

I Carpini Timorasso 2011 $13.99
While this grape varietal has received a resurgence in recent years in grappa production, it produces a dry, crisp white wine as well. Tropical and aromatic, it is full bodied with clean acidity on the finish.
Barbera
This red grape varietal often carries plum and black cherry characteristics with soft tannins. When released young, it is fresh and lively. When aged for several years, it gains weight and tannins. This will be a treat to see different bottlings from the same producer.

Il Carpeni Nero Barbera $11.99
I Carpini Colle Tortonese Barbera $13.99
I Carpini Sette Zolle Barbera $21.99
I Carpini Bruna D’autunno $34.99
Only 100 cases of this are produced and the only place in the US you can get it is here in Rhode Island.

Narragansett Autocrat Coffee Milk Stout at Wakefield Liquors, Rhode Island

As is tradition in most of sports, but especially baseball, the winning team in a Championship Series celebrates their victory with champagne in their clubhouse after the game. Giddy 20 to 30-year-olds don goggles and spray their teammates with sparkling wine. Of course, some of it gets drunk too.

Nothing against Korbell, but you would think that the billionaire owners of these teams could spring for something of a slightly better caliber bubbly.

The Kansas City Royals won the American League this week to make their first trip to the World Series since 1985 and they break out a $12 California Champagne?

The Red Sox did the same thing last year, spraying Korbell after winning it all. You would think that they could at least break out some Westport Rivers Brut from the Bay State and keep it local.

If the Patriots go on a deep playoff run, let’s promise ourselves to pummel owner Robert Kraft with emails and letters, encouraging him to class up the celebration.

For the beer lovers, come on in Saturday from 4-6 and see what everyone is talking about: The Narragansett Autocrat Coffee Milk Stout.

Friday, October 17, 4-7pm

Excelsior Winery

  Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Chardonnay 2013
Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
All Varietals $7.99

 

Mulderbosch Faithful Hound

Hearst Ranch Winery on Friday, Staff Selections Saturday

Being the unfortunate sports fan who roots for the Boston Red Sox and the New York Jets, this has not been an easy Fall. And with the Broncos and Patriots up next on the Jets schedule, it’s only going to get worse. So when droves of customers came in on Wednesday in their Bruins gear, it was a welcome fresh start to my sports world. Bring on hockey!

Good luck to the B’s this season and remember to stop by Wakefield Liquors for all your sports watching and tailgating needs.

-Jeff

 Friday, October 10, 4-7pm

Hearst Ranch Winery

Steve Hearst and Jim Saunders began their business relationship and friendship after Jim purchased a Hearst Ranch tour at a Hearst Cancer Resource Center fundraiser. As the saying goes, “a meeting of the minds” developed into this benevolent project – Hearst Ranch Winery. Independently, Steve Hearst and Jim Saunders are accomplished businessmen that have the talent, imagination and integrity to create great things. Collectively, their shared vision on sustainable agriculture, resource protection and historical preservation brought Hearst Ranch Winery to fruition.

Three Sisters Cuvee White 2011 $17.99
The nose of the 2011 Three Sisters Cuvée is driven by apricot, violet and white peach. The front end of the flavor profile is dominated with peach and nectarine flavors that transition to mild back end acidity with lingering flavors of orange zest. Made from Grenache Blanc and Viognier, it is a classic example of the white wines from the Rhone Valley.

Glacier Ridge Chardonnay 2011 $17.99
Aromatically, the 2011 Glacier Ridge Chardonnay is driven by bright citrus and peach with underlying hints of mango and vanilla. The entrance of the flavor profile is dominated by genuine pineapple and citrus supported with zesty mid-palate acidity. The 2011 Glacier Ridge boasts a lemon cream and guava fruit driven finish.

Merlot 2010 $26.99
The 2010 Pico Creek Merlot is the poster child for balance. Garnet in color with astounding clarity and medium intensity, Pico Creek showcases classic Merlot aromas of cherry, plum, raspberry, cigar box, black pepper, with a nice inclusion of French oak. The front end of the flavor profile brings pleasing cherry flavors transitioning to a blackberry driven mid palate with incredible acidity and structure, which sets the stage for the finish line. Our 2010
Pico Creek Merlot has a lovely finish driven by raspberry, spice, tea, forest floor, and long velvety tannin.

Petite Sirah 2011 $24.99
Petite Sirah is one of the most powerful varieties grown in the entire Paso Robles AVA. The Pergola is testimony in the glass, with dark purple and blackish hues. The 2011 releases seductive blueberry, coffee, blackberry and dried violet aromas with each swirl of the glass. The flavor profile is driven with black fruit and blueberry, wrapped up in raspberry and clove with fine grained tannins on the finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 $26.99
The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, “Bunkhouse” boasts dusty black fruits, sweet French oak, and chocolate covered cherries in the background. The foreground of the flavor profile is dominated by bright blackberry and round tannins with a caramel edge. The lengthy finish features black fruits and cassis.

Wakefield Liquors Welcomes Autumn with a Pumpkin Section

After the last gasp of summer hit last weekend, it almost feels good to have Autumn finally arrive this week. To celebrate the changing seasons, we have erected a new Fall Pumpkin Section featuring all your favorite Pumpkin beers, whiskey, and liqueurs. Browse through the selections and try out something new!

Italian wine weekend! Abramo shines on Friday, Marc on Sat

Well valued customers, we have a Fall Festivus planned for you this weekend! Tonight, brand Ambassador of Tenute Rubino, Ivan Genuso, and Rhode Island Legend Abramo will be here to showcase the wonderful wines of Salento. Included will be the Two Bicchieri award winning Punta Aquila Primitivo.

On Saturday Marc will be here to highlight Italian wines from the highly regarded importer, Vias. Assuming that there will be some way to get into the parking lot, this will be a treat for all wine lovers!

Friday, September 19, 4-7 pm

Tenute Rubino Wines
with Abramo & Ivan

Casa Sola Pergliamici Bianco 2011 $11.99
Chardonnay & Vermintino Blend
Tenute Rubino Primitivo 2012 $13.99
Tenute Rubino Negroamaro 2012 $13.99
Tenute Rubino Marmorelle 2011 $15.99

Made from a blend of 80% Negroamaro and 20% Malvasia Nera, this dark red is matured in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness of the wine. It features notes of blackcurrants and blueberries with hints of nutmeg and cocao. Enjoy with fried meatballs or roasted lamb.

Tenute Rubino Punta Aquila Primitivo
2010 $17.99

This wine received the second highest award at Gambero Rosso, one of the highest regarded Italian wine festivals in the world. The wine exhibits rich mulberry and cherry fruits along with tobacco and herbs. Savor with meat stuffed rigatoni and medium cheeses.

Open during road construction!

Coming from Providence each morning, I never really actually go through Dale Carlia Corner in front of the store. The other day I came down route 108 from URI and, oh boy, is that construction terrible! As this sidewalk project enters its third month, some entrances and exits into our parking lot will closed. Rest assured, there will always be a way to get into the lot and check out all the wine, beer and liquor that you love. Now that Fall is finally here, we are fully loaded with your favorite Oktoberfest and Pumpkin brews so check our Seasonals section on the Beer Wall when you browse.

-Jeff

Friday from 4-7

Brian pours Dark Horse from California

Chardonnay

Merlot

Big Red Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon

$9.99

Saturday from 2-5

Staff Selections

Muralhas Vinho Verde 2013 $10.99

Palagetto Unoaked Chianti Colli Senesi 2012 $12.99

Chateau La Moussante Bordeaux Superieur 2011 $12.99

Fall Hours

Monday-Thursday: 9am-9pm

Friday & Saturday: 9am-10pm

Sunday: 10am-6pm

Maria Stevens shines on Fri, Staff Highlights on Sat

Ah, how the town can change in a week’s time. Gone are the tourists from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, and here are the college students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The weather has gone from very warm to hot. And the construction at Dale Carlia Corner still is not even close to being complete. So…..I guess not much has changed after all.
Last Spring in London, the World Whiskey Awards handed out 10 “World’s Best” Awards. Our friends up the street at Sons of Liberty won Best Flavored Whiskey for their Fall Pumpkin Spice. It is aged in American oak barrels and each batch is infused with over 2,500 pounds of fire roasted, locally grown pumpkins and a toasty mix of seasonal New England flavor. This year’s first batch is due to hit Wakefield Liquors this afternoon!

Come grab one before they area all gone.

Friday, September 5, 4-7pm

Maria Stevens highlights

Portuguese & Spanish wines

Today you are in for a treat from our friend, Maria. Decanter Magazine, one of the top wine publications in the world, crowned Faustino I Gran Reserva 2011 the Top Wine of 2013. On Friday, this world-class wine will be showcased at Wakefield Liquors.

Decanter wrote, “97 Points. Restrained, mineral style with elegant tannins. Youthful and fresh, feminine and complex. Deliciously decadent, with extraordinary vitality in the palate and a long, unique finish. A jewel at this price.”

Twin Vines Vinho Verde NV $6.99
Faustino VII 2011 $8.99
Faustino I Gran Reserva 2001 $39.99
Portia Ebia Roble Ribera del Duero 2012 $16.99

Saturday, September 6, 2-5pm

Staff Selections

Cono Sur Bicicleta Sauvignon Blanc 2013 $9.99

Bodega Don Juan del Aguila Gaznata Joven 2011 $11.99

Zolo Signature Red 2013 $11.99