Review: The Wine Cache, Granville, Ohio

We took a road trip Saturday Night, August 29th, to Granville, Home to Denison University, “The Battle Of The Bonbons” (see the May 19, 2009 Columbus Dispatch article regarding the Goumas Brothers & their competing candy making businesses, Goumas Candyland Vs Goumas Confections) and The Buxton Inn, Circa 1812 (said to be haunted by three ghosts). Our destination, The Wine Cache, for a three hour “United Estates Portfolio” Wine Tasting & Casual Reception.

We were enticed because the Short Story Brasseire, a recent Wine Spectator Award of Excellence Winner, was providing the Hor d’ Oeurve’s and because Patrick & Connie Allen of Clintonville were the Independent Importers, United Estates Wine Imports Ltd., presenting eleven unique, handcrafted, French artisan wines from their United Estates Portfolio.

Of note, James Housteau is the owner of both the Wine Cache and the Short Story Brasseier.

This was a stand up informal tasting with terrific Hors d’ Oeuvre creations; three of the best were the Crab Stuffed Baby Potatoes, the Garlic Saussison Encroute (rustic herbed French sausage) and the Ratatouille Beggers Purse (and no, Remy was not the chef).

The Allen’s visit, select and import French Country Wines from villages far off the beaten path. They spend significant time with the Vineyard Owners who craft the wines; rural farm producers you might call “Mamman & Pappa” when sitting down to dinner.

Of the 10 Southern France and 1 Alsatian wine s presented Saturday evening, I particularly enjoyed the Jean-Louis Denois NV Chardonnay Brut, the Domaine des Terres Falmet 2008 Cinsault, 100% Cinsault Grape, and the 2005 Domaine Roche-Audran Cotes du Rhone “Cuvee Cesar” Rouge.

This was a terrific evening with a group of friendly people. The Allen’s presented maps of the Winery locations and the history of each Winemaker and the Family Vineyard.

James Housteau, the Owner, is a knowledgeable Sommelier and his Staff did a bang up job of service all evening.