Howie's Cellar

Howie's Cellar Small production wines. Craft beers. Craft spirits. For more information visit our Instagram.

A little throwback for everyone. Pictures from the 70s have been found and you can really see the evolution of our liquo...
07/30/2025

A little throwback for everyone. Pictures from the 70s have been found and you can really see the evolution of our liquor department! Many things have changed, but the quality and service has not.

Ah, Canon-Fronsac. Often overshadowed, perpetually flying under the radar like a great taco truck tucked away in an indu...
07/08/2025

Ah, Canon-Fronsac. Often overshadowed, perpetually flying under the radar like a great taco truck tucked away in an industrial park, yet delivering something truly soulful. The Château Moulin Canon Fronsac 2016 is precisely that kind of discovery, a testament to a corner of Bordeaux that, for centuries, rubbed shoulders with the elite. We’re talking wines enjoyed at the Court of Versailles, no less, before the flashy appellations of the Left Bank stole all the headlines. Here, on these clay and limestone soils just west of St. Émilion, Merlot finds its truest expression, a plushness balanced by an underlying minerality that whispers of ancient seas. It’s a place where the vignerons still make wine for the table, for genuine enjoyment, rather than simply for the auction block.

Now, about that flavor: forget the notion of Bordeaux as something stuffy and impenetrable. The 2016, a particularly felicitous vintage for the region, is all about generosity. Imagine a basket overflowing with ripe black cherries and plums, a hint of licorice entwined with the dusty scent of cocoa, maybe even a wisp of espresso. It’s got that soft, round embrace you crave in a Right Bank Merlot, but there’s a quiet vibrancy, a fresh acidity that keeps it from getting bogged down. It’s not a wine that shouts, but rather one that draws you in with its subtle complexities, a delicate perfume of violets and crushed rock giving way to a long, silky finish that lingers like the last notes of a forgotten melody.

And the pairings? Oh, the possibilities! This is your go-to for anything that benefits from a wine with structure and fruit, without being overly tannic or aggressive. Think slow-roasted lamb, imbued with rosemary and garlic, its rich fat melting into the wine’s dark fruit. Or perhaps a rustic beef stew, the kind that simmers for hours, its savory depths mirrored by the wine’s earthy undertones. Even something as simple as a perfectly grilled steak, still pink in the center, would sing with this. It’s a wine that invites thoughtful consumption, a quiet conversation over a plate of honest food, proving that sometimes, the greatest treasures are found just off the beaten path.

This is Tyler’s 2020 Blanc de Noir - Extra Brut. It ain’t your aunt’s sickly sweet sparkling wine. This is the kind of s...
07/05/2025

This is Tyler’s 2020 Blanc de Noir - Extra Brut. It ain’t your aunt’s sickly sweet sparkling wine. This is the kind of stuff that announces its arrival with a crisp snap and then proceeds to cleanse your palate with a wave of mouth watering acidity. We’re talking about serious bubbles here, the kind that make you sit up a little straighter and notice the craftsmanship. None of that flabby, one-dimensional nonsense. This is complexity in a glass, the kind of thing you’d should want to pair with a proper meal.

The man behind this effervescent delight is Justin Willett of Tyler Winery. Now, Willett isn’t some new guy. He’s a guy who cut his teeth working at some serious estates in Santa Barbara County and has developed a reputation for crafting wines with a sense of place and a distinct elegance. His philosophy seems to revolve around minimal intervention, allowing the quality of the fruit and the terroir to shine through. With this Blanc de Noir, you can bet he’s taking Pinot Noir, a grape that can be notoriously finicky, and coaxing out its more delicate and vibrant side. It’s a testament to precision and a commitment to letting the grapes express themselves without a heavy-handed approach.

So, what does this extra brut beauty taste like? Expect a lively dance of red fruit, think wild strawberries and maybe a touch of cherry. There’s often a lovely minerality that adds a savory edge and keeps it from being purely about the fruit. The “Extra Brut” designation means it’s dry, thankfully, with barely any residual sugar to get in the way of its refreshing character. The bubbles are fine and persistent, giving it a wonderful texture on the palate. It’s the kind of sparkling wine that’s both sophisticated and utterly drinkable, a perfect way to kick off an evening or even just to celebrate making it through another goddamn day. This isn’t just a celebration in a bottle; it’s a statement.

This is Rootdown Trousseau. Made from a winemaker with some soul, a philosophy that doesn’t involve too much BS, and a f...
07/04/2025

This is Rootdown Trousseau. Made from a winemaker with some soul, a philosophy that doesn’t involve too much BS, and a flavor profile that screams “day drinker” in the best possible way. This isn’t some precious, overly complicated bottle; we’re talking about a light chillable red here, something that understands the assignment for a scorching summer afternoon. Skip those heavy, brooding Cabs that make you want to take a nap after one glass. This, my friend, is the kind of juice that keeps the party moving and the good times rolling, deeply refreshing, light red wine.

Now, who’s behind this dangerously drinkable concoction? That would be Mike Lucia of Rootdown Wine Cellars. Based in California, this dude isn’t chasing some corporate ideal of what wine should be. Instead, they’re all about getting their hands dirty, focusing on sustainable practices, and letting the fruit speak for itself. No heavy manipulation, no trying to turn a Trousseau into something it’s not. Their philosophy, as far as I can tell, is rooted (pun intended) in making wines that are honest, approachable, and, most importantly, delicious. They’re not afraid to experiment a little, either, which is always a good sign. You get the feeling they’re making the kind of wines they actually want to drink. Joyful, fun and not pretentious.

So, what’s this Trousseau actually taste like? Think bright red fruit – maybe some tart cherries, cranberries, even a hint of raspberry. There’s often a touch of earthy spice in there, something that keeps things interesting. It’s not a wine that’s going to knock you over with tannins; it’s lighter-bodied, with a refreshing acidity that makes it so damn perfect when it’s chilled. It’s that kind of wine that disappears quickly, the kind you don’t overthink, just enjoy. Deeply refreshing while chilled? Absolutely. A perfect summer pounder? You bet your ass. This is the kind of wine you want on hand for those long, hot days when only something truly vibrant and easy-drinking will do.

Wow. Let’s dive into this bottle of Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis Premier Cru Côte de Lechet 2012. This isn’t your typic...
06/26/2025

Wow. Let’s dive into this bottle of Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis Premier Cru Côte de Lechet 2012. This isn’t your typical flash-in-the-pan white Burgundy, the kind that’s rushed to market to satisfy immediate thirst. Defaix, see, they operate on their own clock. They hold onto their wines, sometimes for a decade or more, until they deem them ready. This particular Premier Cru, from the famed Côte de Lechet vineyard, spent an extended period in those cool, damp cellars of theirs, far longer than most Chablis. This isn’t about chasing the latest vintage or getting the quickest return; it’s about patience, about letting the wine evolve and reveal its true character.

The winemaking here is classic, almost stubbornly so. Defaix is a traditionalist in the truest sense. Forget the heavy-handed oak or the manipulation that you find in some corners of the wine world. This is about letting the Kimmeridgian limestone soils of Chablis speak for themselves through the Chardonnay grape. The extended aging in stainless steel, the avoidance of new oak influence in this particular bottling, all points to a philosophy that values purity, minerality, and the inherent quality of the fruit. It’s a hands-off approach, trusting in time and terroir to work their magic. This isn’t about some flashy new technique; it’s about honoring the traditions that have made Chablis so revered.

The history of this estate is intertwined with the very fabric of Chablis. The Defaix family has been making wine in this region for generations, deeply rooted in the land and its traditions. Their philosophy is one of unwavering commitment to quality, even if it means going against the grain. Holding back vintages until they reach their peak is a testament to this dedication. It’s a bold move in a world that often prioritizes immediate gratification. This 2012 Côte de Lechet, released when they felt it was finally singing, embodies this ethos. It’s a wine that whispers tales of the past, of the patience and conviction of a family that understands that true excellence takes time.

Let’s consider Michel Gahier’s Melon from the Jura, the “La Fauquette” bottling. This is rooted in a deep understanding ...
06/20/2025

Let’s consider Michel Gahier’s Melon from the Jura, the “La Fauquette” bottling. This is rooted in a deep understanding of place and tradition, very much in keeping with the spirit of the Jura. Here, Melon, more precisely the local Chardonnay known as “Melon à Queue Rouge”—a white grape with a reddish blush near the stem—achieves a distinct expression under Gahier. It highlights the Jura’s unique viticultural identity, a region long outside mainstream French winemaking.

“La Fauquette” offers a fascinating glimpse into Jura terroir through this particular Chardonnay clone. Expect a linear, mineral-driven character with a subtle saline note from the limestone soils. Nuanced complexity unfolds with air, hinting at traditional Jura oxidative aging. “Melon à Queue Rouge” likely adds subtle aromatic layers. This wine invites thoughtful consideration of its history and distinct origin, appealing to those who appreciate quieter voices in the wine world.

Ultimately, encountering Michel Gahier’s “La Fauquette” is an opportunity to engage with the authentic Jura. It resonates with the region’s dedication to indigenous grapes and practices. This bottling argues for the serious potential of this Chardonnay variant in the right hands and terroir. It’s a testament to Gahier’s dedication and the enduring allure of the Jura, a region offering some of France’s most intriguing wines.

Alright, let’s talk about Outward Valdiguie. Forget your typical bombastic big reds and your precious, over-oaked cult w...
06/16/2025

Alright, let’s talk about Outward Valdiguie. Forget your typical bombastic big reds and your precious, over-oaked cult wines. This, I suspect, is the kind of juice that comes from folks who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, who understand that the best things in life – and in the bottle – come from a little sweat and maybe a bit of rebellion against the predictable. These aren’t your basic vintners; they’re probably the kind who actually drink their own wine, maybe with some crusty bread and something simple cooked over an open flame. They’re likely chasing something honest, something that speaks of the dirt it came from, not some focus-grouped, market-tested swill.

Now, the wine itself. Valdiguie, that’s a grape that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s a damn good thing. You’re likely getting something that’s bright, maybe a little bit spicy, with a refreshing acidity that refreshes your palate. Think vibrant red fruit – maybe some raspberries or cranberries – not the heavy, syrupy stuff. There’s a touch of earthiness in there, a whisper of something wild that reminds you it came from a living, breathing place. This isn’t a wine to contemplate for hours in a hushed room; it’s a wine to throw back with gusto, the kind that makes you want to tell stories and laugh a little too loud.

And when it comes to food, forget your snooty pairings. This is the kind of wine that screams for something honest and unfussy. Think grilled sausages with peppers and onions, maybe a simple roast chicken, or even a slightly spicy taco situation. Given your explorations of places like Howlin’ Ray’s and a penchant for things like Newport garlic noodles and even some Filipino dishes, I’d bet this Valdiguie would play surprisingly well with something with a bit of a kick, maybe even some proper crispy pork. It’s versatile, this stuff. It’s not precious, it’s just good, honest wine meant to be enjoyed with equally unpretentious food and good company.

Ah, the Bérèche Brut Réserve. It whispers of old vines in the heart of the Marne Valley, doesn’t it? This isn’t your fla...
06/14/2025

Ah, the Bérèche Brut Réserve. It whispers of old vines in the heart of the Marne Valley, doesn’t it? This isn’t your flash-in-the-pan Champagne; it speaks of a lineage deeply rooted in the land. The Bérèche family’s history in this region stretches back to 1847, giving them an intimate understanding of their terroirs, mostly around Ludes and Craon de Ludes. Unlike some of the larger houses, the focus here remains fiercely on the estate, allowing for a meticulous approach from vineyard to cellar. When you encounter a bottle of their Brut Réserve, you’re not just getting bubbles; you’re holding a piece of Champagne’s enduring story, crafted with generations of wisdom.
The bottling itself is a testament to their dedication. They typically blend around one-third each of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier, often with a significant portion of reserve wines – sometimes as much as 40% – aged in oak. This practice adds layers of complexity and depth that you simply don’t find in more entry-level offerings.

Furthermore, they employ extended lees aging, typically spending at least two to three years in bottle before release, which imparts a wonderful autolytic character – think brioche, subtle nutty notes – that elevates the entire experience. It’s this patient approach that sets Bérèche apart, a refusal to rush the natural evolution of their wines.

And the flavors? They are, to my palate, a beautiful expression of balance and finesse. You’ll often find a core of bright citrus – perhaps lemon zest and green apple – intertwined with those aforementioned richer notes of toasted bread and hazelnut. There’s a lovely mineral undercurrent, a sense of chalky soil that speaks directly to their terroir. The finish is typically dry and precise, leaving you wanting another sip. It’s a Champagne of understated elegance, one that rewards contemplation and pairs beautifully with a wide range of cuisines, making it a true staple in any serious wine lover’s collection.

Don’t miss out on what is surely to be an incredible experience! Bubbles & caviar from and !
06/05/2025

Don’t miss out on what is surely to be an incredible experience! Bubbles & caviar from and !

The shift into June always carries a certain lightness, doesn’t it? The days grow long, the air warms, and the desire fo...
06/02/2025

The shift into June always carries a certain lightness, doesn’t it? The days grow long, the air warms, and the desire for something celebratory bubbles up. This Sunday, we’re embracing that feeling here at the market with a tasting that feels perfectly timed for the season’s start. Forget those heavy reds for a few hours; we’re turning our attention to the effervescence that sings of sunshine and longer evenings.

We’ll be showcasing a delightful selection of sparkling wines, with a particular emphasis on Champagne, courtesy of our friends at Beaune Imports. These aren’t just any bubbles; they are wines with stories, with character, reflecting the unique terroirs from which they hail. And what better accompaniment to fine Champagne than the luxurious salinity of caviar? We’re thrilled to be sampling some truly exceptional roe from Astrea Caviar, a pairing that speaks to simple pleasures done well.

So, please do join us this Sunday from 2pm to 5pm on the patio. It’s a chance to explore some exciting wines, taste a real delicacy, and perhaps most importantly, to simply enjoy the beginning of summer with good company. We look forward to seeing you there.

New bags. Who dis?
05/23/2025

New bags. Who dis?

Wine Tasting This Sunday the 25th from 2:00 – 5:00 PM!Featuring the celebrated wines of Raj Parr and Sashi Moorman, two ...
05/22/2025

Wine Tasting This Sunday the 25th from 2:00 – 5:00 PM!

Featuring the celebrated wines of Raj Parr and Sashi Moorman, two of California’s most visionary winemakers.
We’ll be showcasing selections from their acclaimed labels:
Sandhi – Elegant, terroir-driven wines from the Sta. Rita Hills
Piedrasassi – Bold, expressive Syrahs and small-batch bottlings
Evening Land – Exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their wines, this is a great opportunity to taste through a curated flight that highlights their distinct styles and shared philosophy.

Address

6580 N. San Gabriel Boulevard
San Gabriel, CA
91775

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 7:30pm
Tuesday 10am - 7:30pm
Wednesday 10am - 7:30pm
Thursday 10am - 7:30pm
Friday 8am - 7:30pm
Saturday 10am - 7:30pm
Sunday 10am - 7pm

Telephone

+16262868871

Website

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