2020 Château de Benauge Cuvée des Seigneurs Bordeaux Supérieur
Built in the 11th century on the highest point of the Entre‑Deux‑Mers, the Château de Benauge (a fortified castle, to be sure) has dominated the nearby vineyards for over a thousand years. Endowed with a rich and thrilling history, it was notably a hotbed of resistance to the Gascon revolt in the fall of 1253. In 1426 by royal decision of King Henry VI (king of both France and England at the time), the viscount was officially established as the county of Benauge. The Château de Benauge has been listed as an historical monument since 1995. And while the Entre‑Deux‑Mers may not now be so exalted in terms of its wines, it is doing noble work supplying solid trustworthy red and white wines at prices the rest of us can the more easily afford. From the fruit of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon vines averaging 25 years in age planted to the clay and gravel soils of the south-facing hillside beneath the château, the 2020 Château de Benauge Cuvée des Seigneurs Bordeaux Supérieur (red wines from the Entre‑Deux‑Mers are typically labelled Bordeaux Supérieur) is dark, almost opaque ruby in color with aromas that stick to the script, it's fermented grapes, grape pomace and good winegrowing earth with a palpable sense of vinosité; fleshy, ripe, dark-fruited with good intensity of flavor, medium full in body with underpinning of dusty ripe tannins. Absolutely brilliant value in a well-made, forthright bottle of red Bordeaux.
$9.99 the bottle $101.88 the case
2022 Château Rollin Haut-Médoc
Located about 10 km to the west of Pauillac at Saint‑Sauveur in the Haut‑Médoc, Château Rollin is officially classified as a Crus Bourgeois. Produce of the fruit of 50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot vines planted to silty gravelly soils of the various plots of vineyard located within 1½ kilomètres around the cellars; medium deep ruby in color with classic Bordelais aromas suggestive of fleshy berry, ripe plum, spice and vineyard floor with just the subtlest hint of graphite; poised and structured on the tongue, ample, mouthfilling, almost spherical in shape with a crunchy, innervating fleshy fruit quality and fine, resolved tannins delivering a nice wollop of classic, if modern and ripe claret flavor. Oh, and do check the price. This is simply stunning value in good left bank Bordeaux red wine.
$14.99 the bottle $154.88 the case
2023 Château Tour Carmail Haut-Médoc
Produce of the fruit of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted to gravelly/sandy soils of in the Haut‑Médoc on the left bank of the Gironde River estuary; the wine is aged not in oak, but in concrete vats; medium deep ruby in color with aromas suggestive of dark berry, spiced plum and earth (we're reminded of that old descriptor for many a fine Bordeaux: N№ 2 pencil shavings); polished on entry, perhaps more velvety than silky in texture with classic Bordelais astringency, gentle warmth and intensity of flavor; this would be just a perfect choice with a jambon beurre or steak frites à la béarnaise.
$11.99 the bottle $122.88 the case
2022 Château Rocher-Figeac Saint-Émilion
Produce of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc hand‑harvested from 4 hectares (about 10 acres) of sustainably&farmed vines an average age of 45‑plus years and planted to the clay/limestone soils of this notably exceptional section of Saint‑Émilion. Rich ruby in color with complex aromas an amalgam of kirsch, plum, earth and rain‑moistened stone; full and rich onto the tongue with sapid, almost chewy fruit, gentle structure of ripe tannins, gentle astringency and a certain kirsch‑like quality that serves to freshen the palate, stretching fine typical Saint‑Émilion flavor long and fresh on the finish.
$19.99 the bottle $101.94 the case of 6
2022 Château Rocher-Gardat Montagne Saint-Émilion
Alluring deep ruby in color with discreet aromatics of cherry, earth and stone (petrichor, really; Alan noted Black Forest kirsch and cocoa); plush if firm and stony on entry with nice chalky palate‑cleansing astringency. Brilliant value, too.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
View more of our selection of Bordeaux wines on the Bordeaux page of our website.
2022 Château Puygueraud Francs Côtes de Bordeaux
Ripe red and black fruits, savory herbs, truffle, and new leather notes all shine in the 2022 Château Puygueraud, a balanced, charming, beautifully textured 2022 that's already hard to resist. It's well worth seeking out and will be a smoking good Bordeaux to drink over the coming decade. It's another gorgeous wine from Nicolas Thienpont. Drink 2025‑2035. Rated
92. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com February, 2025
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2018 Château Saint-Georges Saint-Georges Saint-Émilion
Lots of ripe red and blue fruits as well as chocolate and leafy herbs notes emerge from the 2018 Château Saint Georges, and this medium to full‑bodied, ripe, plump 2018 has terrific purity, some earthy, spicy, cedary undertones, ripe yet present tannins, and a good finish. Drink it over the coming 10‑12 years. Drink 2021‑2033. Rated
89. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2023
$27.50 the bottle $280.56 the case
2020 Clos des Jacobins Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé
Spiced dark cherries, iron, tobacco, and floral notes all define the 2020 Clos Des Jacobins, a medium to full‑bodied, pure, polished, and beautifully balanced 2020 with lots of character. The tannins are nicely polished and integrated, and it has plenty of mid‑palate depth as well as outstanding length. While it's unquestionably drinking nicely today, it's going to benefit from just a few years of bottle age and keep for 10‑15 years. Drink 2025‑2040. Rated
91. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2023
$50.00 the bottle $510.00 the case
2023 Château Marjosse Entre-deux-Mers Blanc
Château Marjosse is a small but historical Bordeaux property, built in 1782 and located near the village of Tizac‑de‑Curton in the heart of the Entre‑deux‑Mers region just east of the city of Bordeaux. The winery is simply‑equipped but marvellously functional, with cellars now over two hundred‑years old. There are 35 hectares of vineyards exceptionally well‑situated on a clay/limestone plateau around 300 mètres above sea level. Winemaker, Pierre Lurton, born and raised in a neighbouring château, bought the property piece by piece starting in 1991 and has been producing widely‑acclaimed, sensibly‑priced red and white wines since. From a typical Bordeaux blanc blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, Sémillon and Muscadelle, vivid platinum/yellow with glints of green in color and ultra‑fresh aromas suggestive of sappy green fig, cool melon, white peach, gooseberry and crushed stone (we remind ourselves that it is the stuff of cool green grapes growing in among their happiest of places); at once, both svelte in body and just ample and rounded on the tongue, with nerve and freshness to spare, and just lots and lots of mouthwatering fresh flavor to the finish.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2022 Château Marjosse Bordeaux Rouge
Produce of about 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Malbec; dense full ruby in color; aromas suggestive of warm vineyard floor, dusty berry and old‑fashioned № 2 pencil shavings with something more in calm reserve identify this almost immediately as claret (with air the wine revealed a touch of reglisse and cherry); structured and herbal onto the tongue with gentle, almost chewy tannins that give a sense of mouthfilling breadth and rondeur and gentle but persistent intensity of flavor; Henry summed it nicely noting that 'all the classic claret elements were in place here' with additional notes of blonde tobacco and cocoa, but, to be sure, these are typically elements of far more expensive wine …
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2019 Croix de Beauséjour Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
The estate covers a little less than 8 hectares, of which just under 7 are planted with vines. The single contiguous vineyard is located on one of the most prestigious terroirs of Saint-Émilion, that is, the limestone plateau. Its south/southwestern exposures and steady incline allow the sun to nourish the vines for a significant part of the day. The average age of the vines is between 40 and 50 years, and their roots have grown deep into the sponge‑like limestone soil, a natural water regulator. It is this terroir that lends the outstanding quality to the wines, giving both ageworthiness and freshness, whatever hurdles the vintage may offer. The Croix de Beauséjour represents the first course, the entrée (or appetizer, in our parlance) into the wines of the property. Deep, almost midnight ruby in color to a more sanguine ruby toward the edges with aromas that run deep, with undulating concentrated wafts of dried berries, dried cherries, spiced plum and pulverized stone; at once, firm, then cool, collected, harmonious and equilibrious on the tongue, well-demonstrating its impressive depth of complex intensity of flavor and stony underpinning; mon dieu, ça c'est le truc.
$32.50 the bottle $165.78 the case of 6
2019 Château Puygueraud Francs Côtes de Bordeaux
The 2019 Château Puygueraud is also terrific, with ripe darker cherry, plum, leafy tobacco and hints of chocolate on the nose. This medium-bodied, rounded, supple, elegant beauty has soft tannins, wonderful balance, and a great finish. Drink it over the coming decade. Drink 2022‑2032. Rated
92. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com April, 2022
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case of 6
2022 Château Pavillon de Boyrein Graves
Produce of about half each Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon fruit harvested from vines planted to the gravel, clay and limestone soils of southern part of the Graves winegrowing area near the city of Bordeaux itself; supremely fresh and pure aromas of cool green/gold berries hanging in the cool of morning with suggestion of snappy, sappy mint leaf and green fig; delightful equilibrium on the palate, at once feather light, delicate, sleek and soothing on the tongue with a wellspring of fresh green/gold berry flavor, a fresh chervil‑like winter aromatic herbal quality and an uplifting minéralité on the finish.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2021 Château Capbern Saint-Estèphe
Checking in as a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2021 Château Capbern is terrific and an undeniable success in the vintage. Beautiful cassis, red cherries, savory herbs, and camphor notes all flow to a medium-bodied, round, charming, elegant 2021 that shines for its overall balance and purity. Give it just 2-3 years in the cellar, and it will evolve for 15 years or more if well stored. Drink 2026‑2042. Rated
92. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com April, 2024
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2019 Château Capbern Saint-Estèphe
I love the nose on the 2019 Château Capbern, a medium to full‑bodied, spicy, rich, tobacco and cedar pencil‑filled beauty with ripe yet building tannins, a great mix of richness and freshness, and a blockbuster of a finish. It's incredibly impressive, and while it offers pleasure even today, it deserves 5‑6 years of bottle age, and I can't imagine it not evolving for two decades. Drink 2027‑2042. Rated
94. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com April, 2022
$37.50 the bottle $191.28 the case of 6
2020 Château Corbin Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé
The 2020 Corbin is a very elegant, precise wine. Silky, beautifully perfumed and light on its feet, it impresses with its purity and guile. The Corbin is not an obvious Saint-Émilion; rather, it is a wine that is all finesse. Crushed berry fruit, spice, mint, blood orange and cedar are all laced together. This is such a classy, polished wine. Drink 2028‑2040. Rated
(92-94). ‑ Antonio Galloni
vinous.com May, 2021
$50.00 the bottle $510.00 the case
2020 Château La Grande Métairie Bordeaux
Produce of about 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested in the cool of the early morning from vineyards at Gornac some 30 kilometres south of Saint‑Émilion; rich ruby/purple in color with aromas suggestive of ripe plump dark berries, toasted baguette, graphite and vineyard floor; cool and reserved onto the tongue, velvet in texture becoming more chewy with broad dusty tannins and classic claret astringency, this taster is contemplating an Antone's Original Po' Boy, a Jambon Beurre or muffuletta or simply a nice fat piece of a Brie-type cheese. This is classic Bordelais claret for a most reasonable price.
$11.99 the bottle $122.28 the case
2020 Château Carbonnieux Pessac-Léognan Blanc
The 2020 Carbonnieux Blanc is a very pretty white that marries the freshness of Sauvignon with the great richness and mid-palate of Sémillon. Dried pear, almond, chamomile, crushed flowers and mint all meld together effortlessly. The 2020 is impeccable from start to finish. Drink 2023‑2026. Rated 91. ‑ Antonio Galloni, December, 2022
$47.50 the bottle $484.56 the case
2022 Le G de Château Guiraud Bordeaux Blanc Sec
Sweetness seems to have gone out of fashion of late. And sweet wine seems to have hit the skids, market-wise, as well. So, necessity being the mother of invention, here's a little something, if not completely different, certainly far more prevalent now than in days gone by — dry white wine from Sauternes. Produce of about half each certified organically farmed Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon vines an average of 35 years old and planted to sandy gravel and clay gravel soils of Sauternes to the southeast of the city of Bordeaux: lovely yellow gold in color with characteristic waxy Bordelais blanc aromas suggestive of fresh ripe melon, green fig, fresh mint leaves, rain‑moistened stone and, with a little air, citrus blossom; oh this is a tactile wine alright, gently glycerol, rounded, cushy, satisfying, but with nerve and spine, pith and underpinning enough to keep fresh melon, citrus and stone‑tinged flavors moving along, skipping along, fresh and vital and flavorful long on the finish. And, even if completely dry, price‑wise, it's a really sweet deal.
$22.50 the bottle $101.94 the case of 6
2021 Bordeaux Blanc Sec Lions de Suduiraut
Rich nose, honeyed with white pear, white apricot and some white blossom and caramel tones. Vivacity and raciness - this has excellent precise lemon and orange with some grapefruit and apricot touches. It has a lovely weight, silky but more thick, satin textured. You have density and structure on the mid palate as well as length but also a zippy lemon, lime and bitter orange element. Enough definition and energy to be enjoyed as an aperitif but the density to also enjoy with food. 1⁄3 barrel ageing, a small percentage new oak and the rest tanks. 32,000 bottle production, normally 50,000. Drink 2024‑2028. Rated
91. - Georgina Hindle,
decanter.com March, 2022
$22.50 the bottle $293.28 the case of 6
2018 Clos La Madeleine Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé
Coming from the Moueix team, the 2018 Clos La Madeleine checks in as 76% Merlot and 24% Cabernet Franc from a tiny vineyard (2.3 hectares) on the hillsides of Saint-Emilion, near Belair-Monange. This vineyard was purchased by the Moueix family in 2017, and the 2018 saw malolactic fermentation in barrel and was raised in 40% new French oak. It has classic Saint-Emilion minerality as well as a great nose of blackcurrants, black cherries, chocolate, crushed stone, and graphite. This carries to a powerful, medium to full-bodied 2018 with chalky tannins, terrific mid-palate depth, and a juicy, lively, complex style that keeps you coming back to the glass. Give it a few years and enjoy over the following 15-20 years. It's the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted, and I expect the best is still to come. Drink 2024‑2044. Rated
94. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2021
$150.00 the bottle $765.00 the case of 6
2020 Château Chasse-Spleen Moulis en Médoc
One of six Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnels in the original 1932 classification, this is one of the largest estates in the appellation. This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (49%), Merlot (42%), Petit Verdot (6.5%) and Cabernet Franc (2.5%). Herbal, fragrant, ripe black fruit on the nose. Plush, juicy and austere, the combination of chewy fruit, lean acidity and chalky minerality give a wide expression and long finish. I love the cool blue fruit touches, the eucalyptus, liquorice, tobacco and clove freshness and the chalky texture. Elegant, fresh, nuanced and persistent. A great showing for Chasse in 2020. Fun and fruity, this has personality and character, the oak is well integrated and the tannins nicely supportive. Well structured, all in place and delicious now even so young. Drink 2023‑2036. Rated
92. ‑ Georgina Hindle,
decanter.comOctober, 2023
$42.50 the bottle $433.56 the case
2019 Clos du Marquis Saint-Julien
I continue to just love this terroir. The 2019 Clos Du Marquis brings beautiful richness and depth with the purity and elegance of the vintage. Cassis, smoked black cherries, tobacco, gravelly earth, and spice are just some of the nuances, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a rich, dense mid-palate, serious, almost chewy tannins, and a great finish. It's not for those looking for instant gratification and demands a good decade of bottle age. Rated
94+. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com April, 2022
$75.00 the bottle $765.00 the case
2020 Château Lafite Rothschild Pauillac
Looking at the Grand Vin, the 2020 Château Lafite-Rothschild is a sensational effort checking in as 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that hit 12.8% natural alcohol and a pH of 3.94. As Lafite as Lafite gets, this ultra-classic reveals a dense ruby/plum hue as well as a tight, yet layered bouquet of ripe blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, freshly sharpened pencils, graphite, and subtle spice. Flawlessly balanced, deep, concentrated, and layered, it has an incredible mid-palate, building, perfect tannins, and a finish that leaves you salivating. Refined, elegant, and perfection are the buzz words here. Unfortunately, it's not for the instant gratification crowd, and I wouldn't be surprised to see this require 15 years to hit the early stages of its prime drinking window. It will probably hit its 100th birthday in fine form. Drink 2038‑2113. Rated
100. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2023
$1,000.00 the bottle $5,100.00 the case of 6
2016 Château Latour Pauillac
Retasting the 2016 Château Latour next to both the 2010 and 2022 had me feeling like a kid in a candy store. Needing lots of air to show at its best, its dense purple hue is followed by quintessential Latour notes of smoky blackcurrants, scorched earth, graphite, and lead pencil shavings. This carries to a medium to full‑bodied Pauillac that has lively acids, a pure, seamless, layered mouthfeel, building yet perfectly ripe tannins, and that rare Latour mix of power, austerity, and elegance that makes this château so compelling. Pulled from just 36% of the total production, the 2016 is 92.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7.1% Merlot hitting 13.5 alcohol with an IPT of 83. It's primarily academic at this stage, but it's starting to round the corner and clearly, with its level of fruit and overall balance, offers pleasure. I think it needs another 5‑7 years to hit the early stages of its prime drinking window and will have 75‑100 years of overall longevity. Drink 2030‑2116. Rated
100. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2025
$875.00 the bottle $4,462.50 the case of 6
2019 Les Forts de Latour Pauillac
The 2019 Les Forts De Latour is more open, expressive, and complex, with a medium to full-bodied style as well as terrific aromatics of ripe currants, leather, graphite, and cedary spice. I love its overall purity, and it has fabulous balance and outstanding length. Coming from slightly less ideal parcels (those farther from the Gironde estuary), it doesn't have the density of the 2020 or 2022 but shines for its overall equilibrium and elegance, while still bringing some solid Pauillac power. Drink 2025‑2045. Rated
93+. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2025
$237.50 the bottle $1,211.28 the case of 6
2016 Les Forts de Latour Pauillac
The second wine of this great château, the 2016 Les Forts de Latour continues to impress. I commented on release that it was the best wine in the vintage, and my opinion hasn't changed. This beauty offers plenty of classic Latour character as well as notes of blackcurrants, saddle leather, lead pencil shavings, and dried flowers. Full-bodied, concentrated, and perfectly balanced, it's just now starting to round into form and will no doubt continue drinking well for another 2+ decades. It's a gorgeous Pauillac. Drink 2022‑2044. Rated
95. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com August, 2022
$295.00 the bottle $752.25 the case of 3
2022 Château Léoville Barton Saint-Julien
Cassis, graphite, smoky tobacco, violets, and a wonderful sense of minerality all emerge from the 2022 Château Léoville Barton, a riveting Saint-Julien that shows the style of this estate while bringing the richness and depth of the vintage. Full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, it has enough tannins to warrant a decade of cellaring and will have 30+ years of prime drinking. I’d put this up with the finest Léoville Barton I’ve tasted, as well as with the truly greats of the vintage. Drink 2035‑2075. Rated
98+. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com February, 2025
The 2022 Léoville Barton, the second vintage made in the new winery, was the first to be completely gravity‑fed instead of using pumps. It has a magnificent bouquet that fullfils my admittedly lofty expectations given its showing from barrel, blessed with an almost pixelated quality that previous vintages perhaps lacked. The nose is very precise with pure black fruit and fine mineralité.
Elegant and poised, the medium‑bodied palate features finely chiseled tannins and just the right amount of bitterness on the finish. Very persistent—a SaintJulien you just don't want to finish. This ranks among the finest in the appellation. Drink 2030‑2070. Rated
97. ‑ Neal Martin,
vinous.com January, 2025
$137.50 the bottle $701.28 the case of 6
2021 Château Léoville Barton Saint-Julien
I continue to love Château Léoville Barton, and their 2021 doesn't disappoint. (If anything, the fresher style favored here played nicely with the vintage character.) Lots of cassis and darker currants as well as crushed stone, graphite, and floral notes emerge on the nose, and it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, pure, elegant tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. It's not going to match the all-time greats here, but it's a seriously good wine in the vintage and I'd be happy with bottles in the cellar. Rated
(92‑94). ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com June, 2022
The 2021 Léoville-Barton was picked from 27 September until 7 October, matured in 60% new oak. The alcohol is 13.12%. It has a clean and pure bouquet with blackberry, bilberry, cedar and hints of shucked oyster shell: focused and very well delineated, classic in style. The palate has a smooth and cohesive entry, very well-knit with beautifully integrated oak. Crisp acidity with the perfect amount of tension on the classically-styled finish, this Léoville Barton demonstrates the advantages of their brand new cellar (even though the reception was not finished in time!) I cannot see any reason not to own a few bottles of this in your cellar. Drink 2026‑2050. Rated
(93‑95). ‑ Neal Martin,
vinous.com May, 2022
The 2021 Léoville-Barton is a wine of notable intensity, but all of that power is directed inward. Tightly coiled and vibrant, the Léoville-Barton is going to need time to be ready, but that is to be expected. There is terrific energy here, if not the volume of the preceding three vintages. That's not a problem. Drink 2031‑2061. Rated
(92‑94). ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com May, 2022
Heady on the nose, perfumed and scented. The palate is alive and playful, delivering high acidity but also focused fruit so it's both lightly framed and fun but also savoury and serious. Smooth and silky tannins give the gentle frame letting the strawberry, creamy raspberry and red cherry fruit do the talking. It's unfussy, all the elements to the fore but all well balanced with a charming texture overall and persistence of high-toned red berry fruits with saline sides. Hints of green pepper, black pepper, slate and pencil lead on the finish. I like this a lot! Rated
94. ‑ Georgie Hindle,
decanter.com May, 2022
$107.50 the bottle $548.28 the case of 6
2020 Château Léoville Barton Saint-Julien
The flagship from this great château, the 2020 Château Léoville Barton checks in as 85.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14.5% Merlot that saw 60% new French oak. It has fabulous aromatics of crème de cassis, graphite, liquid violets, spring flowers, and background oak. Full‑bodied and concentrated on the palate, its purity of fruit is just about off the chart, it has a great mid‑palate, and enough tannins to warrant 7‑8 years of bottle age. This is another sensational wine from this team that will have 30‑40 years of overall longevity. Drink 2030‑2070. Rated
97+. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2023
$125.00 the bottle $1,275.00 the case
2018 Château Léoville Las Cases Saint-Julien
Pure magic and one of the finest expressions of this estate I could imagine, as well as a perfect wine, the 2018 Château Léoville Las Cases comes from a mix of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc that spent 19 months in (I believe) all new French oak. Its dense purple color is followed by a profound wine loaded with notions of crème de cassis, lead pencil shavings, melon, crushed stone, tobacco, and violets. Full-bodied, concentrated, and massive on the palate, yet also incredibly well delineated and precise, it has a wonderful mix of seemingly ripe, sunny fruit from a warm year yet the minerality, purity, and precision of a cooler year. This wine is going to be just about immortal; however, do your best to hide bottles for a solid 10‑15 years. Drink 2031‑2081. Rated
100. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com March, 2021
$350.00 the bottle $3,570.00 the case
2022 Château Mauvesin Barton Moulis en Médoc
The Grand Vin 2022 Château Mauvesin Barton is beautiful and well worth seeking out. Ripe red and black fruits, chalky minerality, and floral notes are just some of its nuances, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a pure, elegant, layered mouthfeel and beautiful tannins. I think you could safely put this up with the best to date from the château, and it’s going to evolve for 20+ years if well stored. Drink 2025‑2045. Rated
93. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com February, 2025
$27.50 the bottle $140.28 the case of 6
2021 Gainey Vineyard Chardonnay Santa Rita Hills Santa Barbara County
Santa Rita Hills is becoming, for us, an area of extreme interest for California Chardonnay (and Pinot Noir) — there is clearly something going on here — and there clearly exists the possibility for both ripeness and signature of place, together with minerality and intensity of flavor. Gainey Vineyard Chardonnay excites not only for fulfilling against all of this promise, but also for its value. Pale platinum/yellow in color with nostril‑titillating aromas suggestive of saline seaside air, mineral, mirabelle plum, flesh of golden apple and lemon curd on toasted and liberally buttered baguette; at once soft and creamy textured and yet intensely mineral, vivid palate feel and flavors that reverberate long and excitedly on the finish.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
View more of our selection of Califonia wines on the California page of our website.
2022 Gainey Vineyard Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills Santa Barbara County
Produce of 100% Pinot Noir fruit harvested from vineyards at the western edge of the Santa Ynez Valley. Lovely medium translucent ruby in color with upfront aromas redolent of sappy bramble and berry, ripe cherry, cola and a hint of toasted baguette (Gainey themselves suggest pomegranate and a whiff of rose hips as well); at once supple and energetic on the tongue, nervy, tense, with splendid equilibrium and flavor that builds joyfully on the tongue and then melts away only ever so slowly, contemplatively into a most pleasant organoleptic memory, tantalizing and fresh long on the finish.
$29.99 the bottle $305.88 the case
2023 The Girls In The Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon California
Some years back, back before the pandemic, during a spirited lunch at our favorite French watering hole, Chez Nous, Darcie Jane wryly observed that there was a dearth of women working here at the shop. She then suggested that she help staunch that inequality. She's been here pretty much since. Nowadays, you can barely find a boy in the building. [Inequality persists.] The girls rule the roost. But we're talking about a wine here. A wine that just happens to be called The Girls In The Vineyard. The girls are, in this case, and endearingly, the vines. In fact, though, and to be sure, vitis vinifera are hermaphroditic, but let's not let that get in the way of a good yarn. According to owners Rob & Kat McDonald, it's probably an Aussie thing (his) or an American south thing (hers) to refer to the vines in this way, but now firmly transplanted to California. Produce of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, mostly from Red Hills, Lake County with a scoche from Oakville, Napa Valley. Deep dark ruby in color; quite Cabernet in aroma with notes of graphite, cool minty plum and dusty vineyard floor (Rob & Kat note more typical Cabernet Sauvignon descriptors like cassis, currant and the deepest darkest cherry; our wine buyer noted that special sense of petrichor that comes when rainfall hits the warm/parched vineyard floor; Brian noted bramble and berry; Henry noted tobacco leaf); cool and sophisticated onto the tongue, even if we know it to be ever so budget‑friendly this comes off as of a higher pedigree; and with air the wine demonstrates a more velvety rich texture, with fine gently chewy tannins that give lift and freshness, carrying sappy fruit flavors that last long and fresh on the finish. Were it a French wine, the marketing would be a cinch — Cherchez les femmes! As it is, this is a California girl. But, then, given the current administration's tariffs, we might well wish they all could be California girls.
$19.99 the bottle $203.88 the case
Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Lot Number 75
Scot Bilbro has taken over for his late father and his brothers and is now running the show at Marietta Cellars. Old Vine Red Lot Number 75 is now the counting of the lots. The wine is tweaked ever so slightly drier than in the past, perhaps now ever the more appealing to both west coast and European wine tastes. Produced mainly from Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, with a touch of Grenache and Barbera for freshness/brightness, and Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot for savoriness; alluring deep ruby/purple in color, with Zinfandel‑influenced aromas suggesting dark ripe juicy berries and grape pomace with hints of the parched dusty northern California vineyard floor; at once fresh and vibrant, smooth and sapid on the tongue with just an inkling of fine‑grained tannins that keep it all on the up and over.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2021 Marietta Cellars Zinfandel Román North Coast
The 2021 Román Zinfandel is juicy, alluring and easy to drink without sacrificing complexity, offering tremendous quality for its modest price. Blended with 4% Petite Sirah and 4% Barbera, the nose is bursting with kaleidoscopic yellow peaches, strawberries and raspberries plus nuances of sage, aniseed and Angostura bitters. The medium‑bodied palate has a finely chalky frame, fireworks of fresh acidity and generous layers of spicy fruit that call you back for another sip. Drink 2024‑2034. Rated
95. Erin Brooks,
www.robertparker.com October, 2023
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
The Whole Shebang Seventeenth Cuvée California Red Wine
The Whole Shebang is a wine made entirely by the crew at Bedrock Wine Co., intended to offer "authentic Californian deliciousness" at a most reasonable price. The fruit comes from old vineyards that Bedrock are rehabilitating along with younger vine parcels and barrels of Bedrock wines that do not make the cut for their spiffier/spendier bottlings. Produce of an inspired mingling of Zinfandel, Carignan, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Mataro, and other compatible varieties, this Seventeenth Cuvée of The Whole Shebang is a limpid ruby in color to just garnet at the edges with aromas suggesting berries, spice and the parched northern California vineyard floor (Henry noted one could smell the very California sunshine in the glass); medium to medium full in body, nicely rounded in texture the discreetly grapey and gently grippy on the tongue, warm and impactful, long and flavorful, too; this is a real red wine that will appeal to folks who prefer honesty in wine production over marketing puffery and frippery. And at its very modest price, it will give a boost to the old wine budget as well.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2022 Chalone Vineyard Chardonnay Estate Grown
Perched in the remote Gavilan Mountain Range, about 1,800 feet above the Salinas Valley, the Chalone Vineyard sits at the base of an extinct volcano bordering the Pinnacles National Park in Monterey County. Chalone Vineyard is one of the few wineries in the United States growing grapevines on limestone‑based soils, the same type of soils as found in Burgundy. The spare, well‑drained ground, limited rainfall and low crop levels attracted Dick Graff, who wanted to make top‑flight Burgundian‑styled Chardonnay. Graff made his first vintage under the Chalone Vineyard label in 1966, producing what would become a benchmark for California Chardonnay. Nowadays, Chalone Vineyard is owned by Foley Family Wines who have placed renewed emphasis on the inherent quality possible given this climate and these soils. Vivid platinum/yellow in color with aromas suggestive of green/gold Chardonnay berries hanging in the cool of a late California summer's morning, wine‑moistened limestone, flesh of green apple, lemon preserves on toasted baguette, white flowers; rounded on entry, slippery smooth, ample, with an enveloping richness, full in body without excessive weight, then mineral and fresh long on the finish. Bravo!
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2022 Chalone Vineyard Pinot Noir Estate Grown
Limpid ruby in color with alluring suggestion of concentrated cherry and baking spice and a hint of toast atop notes of dusty stony earth; seductive, silken smooth in texture on the tongue, with gentle structure from powdery crushed stone-like tannins and delicate but penetrating flavor lingering long and fresh on the finish; this is a brilliant California Pinot Noir and a brilliant value in an otherwise all too often too expensive category.
$27.50 the bottle $280.56 the case
2021 Donnachadh Family Wines Chardonnay
Family owned and organically farmed, Donnachadh (um, let's get this out of the way quickly, it's pronounced DON-nuh-kuh) Vineyard is located in the Santa Rita Hills viticultural area of Santa Barbara County. The vineyard was planted in 2013, the culmination of a dream for erstwhile Austinite owners Drew Duncan and his wife, Laurie. The property is 285 acres with approximately 40 acres under vine. The climate here is dominated by the Pacific Ocean, which lies about 7 miles from the vineyard. Morning fog cools the grapes and consistent afternoon ocean breezes keep heat from building up over the course of the day. Quite pure Chardonnay aromas suggest the salt sea, orange zest, mirabelle plum and green/golden berries hanging in the cool of the maritime morning; quite tactile on the palate, caressing in texture with a gentle minerality and flourish of flavor on the finish that suggest a judicious use of toasty oak and those same now delicious green/golden berries along with a fully mouthwatering hint of salinity.
$67.50 the bottle $688.56 the case
2021 Donnachadh Family Wines Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills
The Pinot Noir vines (California heritage clones Swan, Calera and Pommard) are planted midslope on a north‑facing hillside where fog and strong winds provide cooling and prolong the growing season. Well‑drained soils derived from marine shale provide a lean nutrient diet and just the right amount of moisture. The fruit was hand harvested at ripeness levels to retain bright acidity and intense flavors. At the winery, the fruit was destemmed and crushed while still cool, then fermented with its own native yeasts. Translucent medium ruby in color with aromas that are at once sappy, savory and brambley, with notions of Asian five spice, candied orange peel, a hint of wood smoke and, with some air, ripe bing cherry; at once, both supple and nervy on the tongue, with just an inkling of fine‑grained grape skin and stem tannins, a touch of salinity and a gentle mouthwatering acidity on the laid back west coast sunset of a flavorful finish.
$70.00 the bottle $714.00 the case
2022 Martinelli Pinot Noir Bella Vigna Sonoma Coast
The Martinelli family have been farming their estate vineyards since the 1880s and are today 6th generation winegrowers. Their reputation as such in Sonoma County has been and remains solid. Their Bella Vigna Pinot Noir is a selection from the Martinelli estate vineyards in the Sonoma Coast appellation meant to offer a wine that reflects the characteristics of these vineyards and also the Martinelli style. It has become go‑to Sonoma Coast stuff for us over the last few vintages. Medium translucent ruby in color with glints of fuchsia in color; alluring highly-perfumed Pinot Noir aromas suggestive of grape confiture, black cherry, Italian blue plum, dried fig, candied orange peel and baking spices; silken‑textured on the tongue, just medium in body, both supple and gently rich, with a burst of ripe berry flavors and excellent nerve giving voice to the jittery intensity of flavors that carry on long on the warming mouthwatering finish. As per usual, Martinelli Bella Vigna is indeed a lovely Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.
$42.50 the bottle $433.56 the case
2022 Robert Craig Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity Napa Valley
The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity is a terrific entry-level offering from Robert Craig. Floral overtones and vibrant acids lend lovely polish to match the Affinity's mid-weight personality. This is so well balanced. Most of this fruit is from young vines on Howell Mountain. Drink 2025‑2032. Rated
92. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com December, 2024
$57.50 the bottle $586.56 the case
2019 Robert Craig Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain Napa Valley
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon (Howell Mountain) is another stellar wine from Robert Craig. Bright and incisive, with tons of energy, the Howell Mountain Cabernet delivers the goods, big time. A rush of inky red/purplish fruit, rose petal, lavender, menthol, spice and crushed rocks build into a crescendo of aromas and flavors that dazzles. This deep, vivid Cabernet hits all the right notes. Superb. Drink 2027‑2039. Rated
97. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com October, 2021 October, 2022
$100.00 the bottle $510.00 the case of 6
2021 Robert Craig Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain Napa Valley
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon (Spring Mountain District) is unusually deep and quite potent, yet it also retains a measure of silkiness that is palpable. Dark red/purplish fruit, blood orange, mocha, espresso and dried flowers all race cross the palate. This virile Spring Mountain Cabernet delivers the goods. Drink 2025‑2033. Rated
95. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com December, 2023
$100.00 the bottle $510.00 the case of 6
2019 Peter Franus Zinfandel Brandlin Vineyard Mount Veeder Napa Valley
Zinfandel is a thing in California. But Zinfandel in Napa Valley, California is an increasingly rare thing. One cannot run uphill forever. One cannot resist the fact that Cabernet Sauvignon (for now) is King among grape varieties planted in these vaunted vineyards. But, in Caliifornia, at least, Zinfandel is far more comfortable in both its own modest leather shoes and also in its tennies. Limpid ruby in color, a delectible amalgam of berries and earth and just‑toasted baguette on the nose (Peter Franus himself notes raspberry, white pepper, allspice, and a touch of vanilla), good winegrowing earth, too; easy glide onto the tongue, sweet fruited but completely dry, holding its shape and its flavor impeccably and long, long on the finish.
$40.00 the bottle $408.00 the case
2023 Bonny Doon Vineyard Le Cigare Volant Red Wine of the Earth
As the story goes, back in 1954, the village council of Châteauneuf-du-Pape was quite perturbed and apprehensive that flying saucers or 'flying cigars' might do damage to their vineyards were they to land therein. So, right-thinking men all, they passed an ordinance prohibiting the landing of flying saucers or flying cigars in their vineyards. The ordinance further states that any flying saucers or flying cigars that did land were to be taken immediately to the pound. Well, Le Cigare Volant may be a flight of fancy in the mind of winemaker/poet and among the first of the Rhône Rangers, Randall Grahm, but it is also one heck of an original all-American take on France's very first
Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée, namely, Châteauneuf‑du‑Pape. Produce of 69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsault, 2% Petite Sirah fruit from California's Central Coast; medium‑ruby in color with come hither aromas of a mixture of berries from red to blue to black, a touch of cracked white peppercorn, petrichor (Bonny Doon themselves note wild strawberry, rhubarb with black pepper and tobacco); silken in texture on entry, with building spine of fine-grained tannins lending structure and carrying/extending gently bursting California berry flavors right on target and onto the spacious landing‑pad of a finish.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
The story of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and flying cigars, whimsical as it may sound, is real, and is more or less paraphrased from right off the back label of the wine itself. The re‑telling of the story here is presumably the work of Randall Grahm himself.
2017 Inglenook Rubicon Rutherford Napa Valley
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Rubicon is another wine that has turned out very well. In this vintage, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Rubicon aren't that materially different. Red fruit, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, menthol and licorice all develop in the glass. Here, too, I am quite impressed with the wine's freshness. Drink 2020‑2042. Rated
95. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com January, 2020
This is absolutely delicious. Powerful, intense and concentrated with seductive black cherry and raspberry leaf aromatics. It slowly and steadily pulls you in and compares to the very greatest Cabernets in its excitement, structure and grip. As the liquorice, chocolate and cassis notes stretch out, it comes to a mouthwateringly slow conclusion. This keeps the savoury edge of Cabernet and the tannins give focus and poise. Opulent and concentrated, and very good. 100% new oak. Drink 2022‑2050. Rated
98. ‑ Jane Anson,
decanter.com August, 2020
$175.00 the bottle $892.50 the case of 6
2022 North Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir Classic Willamette Valley
Our friend and former co‑worker James Cahill moved northwest to Oregon back in the mid to late 1990s, following his dream to produce fine Pinot Noir. He worked for a good while with Mike Etzel at Beaux Frères, then briefly with his friend Adam Campbell at Elk Cove Vineyards before finally landing the work that would come to define his career there alongside Tony Soter at Soter Vineyards. More recently,
James, with Tony's full blessing and every assistance, has taken the helm as founder/winemaker/managing partner at North Valley Vineyards, a continuance of work that he had performed for Soter Vineyards for some time. And their classic Willamette Valley Pinot Noir continues to be among our favorites from Oregon: deep, yet still translucent ruby in color with fleshy ripe fruit aromas suggesting dark cherry, blackberry and Italian blue plum, baking spices and a hint of reglisse (or is it simply the true deep deep blue Oregonian Pinot noir grape expressing itself in the rather classic, picture‑perfect harvest of a 2021 vintage); at once ample and silky onto the tongue, juicy, nicely rounded but at the same time demonstrating the snap of taut crisp berryish acidity and freshness of flavor long to the finish.
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2023 Domaine Drouhin Oregon Pinot Noir Dundee Hills
A ripe and black‑fruited Pinot Noir from the very warm 2023 vintage in the Willamette Valley. It is a generous wine with lavish aromas of blackberry, damson plums and a hint of roast cinnamon stick. The palate shows polish with an intensity of ripe red and black bramble fruits, spicy cola and clove and a finish of structure framed by black tea. Drink 2025‑2031. Rated
92. ‑ Clive Purshouse,
decanter.com February, 2025
$50.00 the bottle $255.00 the case of 6
2023 Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir Estate Willamette Valley
Produce of 100% estate grown Pinot Noir fruit from all 6 of the Elk Cove vineyard sites: The Winery Estate, Mount Richmond, Five Mountain, Clay Court, Goodrich and Windhill. These sites are planted to both Pommard and Dijon clones of Pinot Noir and comprise all three of the major Willamette Valley soil types: Willakenzie (marine sedimentary), Laurelwood (windblown loess) and Jory (clay/volcanic), all of which is to say that one is getting a pretty good look here at what the Willamette Valley might offer in terms of (oh, let's use the French word) typicité. Alluring translucent ruby in color to just fuchsia at the edges with fresh fermentive Pinot Noir aromas suggesting cherry, blackberry bramble and spice along with grape pomace itself; supple on entry then both rounded and crisp on the palate with vivifying acidity and crunchy taut berry fruit, gentle structure from fine-grained, melting granular tannins and a freshness and energy on the finish that gives lift and appeal and surely beckons another pull. This is a quite simply gorgeous example of Oregon Pinot Noir.
$29.99 the bottle $305.88 the case
2024 Côtes‑du‑Rhône Cuvée Becassonne Blanc André Brunel
Domaine de la Becassonne is a small estate located near the village of Sorgue near Châteauneuf‑du‑Pape in the southern Rhône Valley. Planted in 1978, the property is solely dedicated to the production of white wine, a rarity in these parts. But with its cool micro‑climate and sandy, limestone soils the tiny property is ideal for the production of this fresh, expressive white wine, an inspired mingling of about 40% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc and 30% Clairette. The vines are pruned for low yields of around 40 hectolitres per hectare. Each varietal is harvested separately as it reaches optimal ripeness, then fermented in temperature‑controlled stainless steel. The wine is bottled in late winter to early Spring following the vintage. Pristine platinum/yellow in color with ultra-fresh if gently discreet pre-Alpine aromas suggestive of orange blossom and cool ripe melon (Brunel themselves note tropical fruits); at once vibrant and delicately mineral, round, supple and caressing (tactile, to be sure) on the tongue; simply superb southern Rhône Valley white wine and splendid value at its price.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2023 Côtes-du-Rhône Cuvée Sommelongue André Brunel
The home of Andre Brunel is also the site of the vineyards for his Côtes‑du‑Rhône Cuvée Sommelongue. The estate is 10 kilomètres north of the village of Orange, adjacent to Châteauneuf‑du‑Pape. Cuvée Sommelongue refers to the long thin parcel of vineyard from which this typical southern Rhône Valley blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre is hand‑harvested. The vines are on average 30 years in age and are planted to typical clay/limestone soils over a gravelly subsoil which allows for ideal drainage following rain events. The fruit is picked late after achieving 14% plus potential natural alcohol, destemmed and vinified in tank, yielding a medium‑full red wine with ripe, juicy cherry and berry fruit with soft tannins and hints of the Provençal garrigue and spice; supple, silky even onto the palate, then demonstrating a gentle intensity of flavor propelled by fine ripe granular tannins that stretch it all out long, long, some kinda long and ultra fresh on the finish.
$19.99 the bottle $203.88 the case
2023 Côtes-du-Rhône Blanc Coudoulet de Beaucastel Famille Perrin
The 2023 Côtes Du Rhône Coudoulet De Beaucastel Blanc is terrific, with a soft, supple, forward style in its pure white peach, quince, and honeyed flower aromas and flavors. It's medium‑bodied and has the vintage's purity as well as outstanding length. Rated
91. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com October, 2024
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2022 Côtes-du-Rhône Coudoulet de Beaucastel Famille Perrin
A blend of 30% Mourvèdre, 30% Syrah, 30% Grenache and 10% Cinsault, the 2022 Cotes du Rhone Coudoulet de Beaucastel exhales a delicate, perfumed bouquet of black cherries, spices, violets and spring flowers. It’s medium to full‑bodied, enveloping and layered with a juicy core of fruit, a tense mid‑palate and a fresh, ethereal finish. This is a consistent wine and a solid value. Drink 2024‑2034. Rated
91+. ‑ Yohan Castaing,
robertparker.com September, 2024
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2021 Gigondas Domaine du Cayron
just translucent dark ruby in color with fleshy berry aromas almost completely subsuming subtle notions of garrigue and rain-moistened limestone and hints of reglisse; ample and plush onto the palate, full in body, fully dry with stony underpinning and flavors a sublime reminiscence of the aromatic slate. Gigondas can be such a magnificent vehicle for the nature of southern Rhône Valley wines. This one hits the mark.
$40.00 the bottle $408.00 the case
2024 Costières de Nîmes Cuvée Tradition Blanc Mas des Bressades
Founded by Roger Marès in the 1960s, the Mas des Bressades is located in the Costières de Nîmes, in the southern Rhône Valley of France. It extends across 45 hectares to the north of the Camargue, where the vines are planted at an elevation of 70 meters on what the French call galets roulés or rolled pebbles (medium sized cobble-like stones, really) rolled and rounded by glacial action and the great Rhône River. The name «Bressades» comes from the Provençal patois and, fittingly, means to rock. While the estate has long been cultivated with respect for nature and the soil, in 2017 Cyril Marès requested certification in organic farming. After three years of conversion, it is now official. Produce of an inspired south of France mingling of 50% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc, 10% Marsanne and 10% Viognier, their Costières de Nîmes Blanc is a vivid pale platinum/yellow in color with aromas suggestive of white pepper, fresh salt sea breezes, cool green/gold berries and crisp cool melon blanc d'Antibe; both ample and bright with its mineral edge on keen display, mouthwateringly fresh and vibrant on the tongue and just oh so deliciously refreshing and quaffable.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2024 Costières de Nîmes Cuvée Tradition Rosé Mas des Bressades
Produce of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 20% Cinsault from the typically stony soils of the Costières de Nîmes, a splendid somewhere between Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the Mediterranean Sea. Copper/pink with sunset orange reflections in color with discreet aromas that suggest a kiss of red berry, an underlying salt sea minerality and a touch more left to the imagination; at once, both ample and minerally crisp on the tongue with a bursting berry fruit and a saline mouthwateringness. And while we all agreed that, given its volume, this is a rosé wine most useful at the dinner table, its sheer saline refreshingness is simply undeniable, too.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2022 Costières de Nîmes Cuvée Tradition Rouge Mas des Bressades
Alluringly rich, dense, ruby/purple in color to fuchsia at the edges with beguiling perfumed aromas that suggest sun, sea, berry and stone along with a hint of cracked black pepper; deep-pitched, pulverized stone and spicy fleshy berry on the tongue, potent, generous; and while we might tend to compare this to its Rhône Valley neighbor Châteauneuf-du-Pape (less than an hour's drive to the northeast), this remains more upfront, juicy and pliant if still a stony/mineral, potent red wine.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2024 Château de Mille Clefs de Mille Blanc Luberon
Produce of 90% Vermentino (known in the south of France as the tongue-trilling Rolle) and 10% Ugni Blanc planted to north‑facing plots on Quaternary limestone scree and Oligocene lacustrine limestone at approximately 300 mètres in elevation. And while we would love to describe this more typically in terms of flowers or other fruits, the wine really does speak more explicitly in terms of cool of the morning green/gold grapes grown in a very happy place, harvested carefully, then tended with care and attention in the cellar prior to bottling and being sent expeditiously here to beautiful downtown Austin, Texas from there just north of Provence proper, the Luberon, that is. The move to biodynamic viticulture at Château de Mille is clearly yielding a positive result (we've seen this before) giving the wines a heightened sense of place and personality, vivacity and push. This ultra‑fresh 2024 vintage Luberon Blanc is just bursting with life and enthusiasm and refreshingness, fully dry, of course, but also so deliciously wet and thirst‑quenching in nature.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2024 Château de Mille Clefs de Mille Rosé Luberon
Produce of about 60% Cinsault and 40% Syrah,
Ecocert-certified organically‑farmed. The vines are planted to northern exposures at about 300 mètres in elevation on Quaternary limestone scree and Eocene clay/sand soils. Deliciously pale copper/pink in color with ultra‑fresh aromas, vibrant and alive, conjuring suggestion of
fraises des bois, crisp, salted and just pithy
mélon d'Antibes and crushed rocks volatilized by a brief summer's rainfall (Château de Mille themselves note airy aromas of citrus and white fruits, with a hint of fresh almond); vivid and crisp on the tongue with tantalizing berryish acidity and that mouthwatering salted pithy melon thing reverberating refreshingly and long. In that this was bottled only earlier this year, we recommend decanting this pink wine for best results.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Château de Mille Clefs de Mille Rouge Luberon
Produce of a blend of about half each Syrah and Carignan fruit, certified organically‑farmed (moving to biodynamie this fine year of 2025); ruby/purple in color with fermentive aromas a mélange of berries red and blue along with (with some air) subtle suggestion of baking spices and candied orange peel; quite engaging and with excellent equilibrium on the tongue what with a nice sense of push/pull of nervy acidity and stony/earthy/berryish fruit; leaves the palate both satisfied and refreshed, refreshed and satisfied; just as any good and wholly over‑achieving everyday red wine should.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Côtes-du-Rhône Belleruche Blanc M. Chapoutier
An inspired, if typical, southern Rhône Valley co-mingling of white grapes Grenache blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Clairette and Bourboulenc from vines planted mainly in stony/marl soils and on clay/limestone slopes, porous soils with a steady and regular water supply; pristine fresh aromas suggest orchard fruits like peach and apricot (we remind ourselves — it's grapes; Chapoutier themselves note fennel and floral scents); at once cool, ample, rounded and fresh on the tongue, with a touch of grapeskin pith (probably from the Viognier) lending structure and nerve, finishing clean and fresh and cajoling another pull.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2024 Côtes-du-Rhône Belleruche Rosé M. Chapoutier
Produce of a preponderance of Grenache, along with Cinsault and Syrah, mainly from the right bank of the Rhône river, from vines planted in loess and sandy soils; harvest is carried out by machine in the cool of night to preserve the fresh aromatic qualities; light copper/pink in color with ultra‑fresh aromas suggestive of crisp cool melon and fraises des bois; crisp and fresh on the tongue with a touch of melon pith and a kiss of taut red berry lending a most welcome wisp of freshening acidity.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2023 Côtes-du-Rhône Belleruche Rouge M. Chapoutier
They say that 'the rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain'. Well, we would note that 'grapes grown near the Rhône taste mainly of the stone' (the southern Rhône and limestone, that is); produce of a typical southern Rhône Valley blend of predominantly Grenache and Syrah from a variety of soils including pebble/clay, soils with layers of stone, stony clay terraces, stony silty‑sand; the fruit is vinified in concrete and stainless steel, following which the wine is then aged for 6 months also in concrete and stainless steel (read, no oak); dense, dark ruby fading gently at the very edges in color with aromas that are at once recognizable as southern Rhône Valley red (Grenache is such a great communicator of this terroir) what with the rather clear suggestion of earth and crushed limestone and just a whole panoply of dark ripe berry fruits; this follows onto the palate with a stony underpinning and gently crispy Grenache tannins that freshen everything onto the finish. Makes this taster wish it were winter … Oh well, we do have the air‑conditioning.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos de Belvédère Château de Vaudieu
The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos de Belvédère reveals enticing aromatics of honeysuckle, jasmine, pear, grapefruit, white peach, pineapple, pastry, ginger and a pinch of honey. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, oily-textured and showing good energy, the nish is long-lasting. Drink 2022‑2029. Rated
94. ‑ Nicolas Greinacher,
vinous.com April, 2023
$75.00 the bottle $382.50 the case of 6
2022 Côtes‑du‑Rhône lieu dit Clavin Blanc Domaine de la Vieille Julienne
Produce of an exotic (if typical) southern Rhône Valley blend of white wine grapes: clairette, white grenache, bourboulenc, marsanne, roussane and viognier, all, from 1,5 ha (3.7 acres) of vines an average age of 65 years and located on the northern, steeper and cooler part of the « Clavin ». The folks at la Vieille Julienne themselves note that 'the white grapes are very comfortable' in these marlstone and limestone soils. Deep yellow/gold in color with otherwise discreet aromas that conjur crushed limestone and a welcome hint of toastiness, like a lovingly bruised green apple baked in a pie; exotic, indeed, tactile, warming and rounded on the tongue, but then demonstrating a remarkable intensity of flavor, nerve and tension of old vines fruit impeccably farmed and then, from a winemaking standpoint, allowed to express its simply glorious environs. Henry noted that it would make a perfect accompaniment to a winter bouillabaisse or even duck confit. Mais, oui, absolument!
$27.50 the bottle $280.56 the case
2022 Côtes-du-Rhône lieu dit Clavin Rouge Domaine de la Vieille Julienne
The 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Clavin is a little gem of a wine that has ripe darker cherry and blackberry fruits as well as some peppery, leather, and dried garrigue-like aromatics. It's medium-bodied, balanced, has fine tannins, and outstanding length. This is one of those wines that I always buy if I see it. Rated
90. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com October, 2024
$27.50 the bottle $280.56 the case
2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape les Trois Sources Domaine de la Vieille Julienne
Moving to the Chateauneuf du Papes from barrel, the 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Trois Sources comes from more sandy soils. In general, this cuvée is the closest in style to the Reserve release and offers a more opulent style compared to the more structured Les Hauts‑Lieux release. Gorgeous black and blue fruits, violets, black licorice, and sappy garrigue emerge on the nose, and it’s full‑bodied, with ultra‑fine tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. Rated
(94-96+). ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com November, 2021
$75.00 the bottle $765.00 the case
2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape les Hauts-lieux Domaine de la Vieille Julienne
The 2020 Châteauneuf du Pape Les Hauts‑Lieux comes from a cooler, higher elevation parcel and also includes slightly more Mourvedre, both of which give this cuvée a more firm, structured profile, especially in its youth. Awesome red, blue, and black fruits as well as black licorice, liquid violet, and peppery garrigue define the bouquet, and it's full‑bodied, with a great mid‑palate, ripe tannins, and a salty, almost bloody character on the finish. It shows the more charming nature of the 2020 vintage yet still deserves 4‑5 years of bottle age and will have over two decades of longevity. Drink 2026‑2048. Rated
97. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com November, 2022
$87.50 the bottle $892.56 the case
2019 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réservé Domaine de la Vieille Julienne
Lastly, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Reserve is another magical wine, and I might have rated this cuvée a perfect score more than any other Southern Rhône. Unquestionably in the same realm as the 2017, 2016, 2010, 2005, 2003, and 2001, it has an incredible, full‑bodied, massive style that somehow stays perfectly balanced, with flawless integration of its fruit, tannins, acidity, and alcohol. Lots of red, blue, and black fruits, loamy earth, Asian spice, licorice, and violet nuances emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with full‑bodied richness, building yet polished tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s a sexier, more opulent wine than the Les Hauts‑Lieux release yet has the same perfect tannins that are so rare to find in the vintage. This required at least 4‑5 years of bottle age and will drink brilliantly for 20‑25+ years. Drink 2025‑2052. Rated
100. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com November, 2021
$300.00 the bottle $1,530.00 the case of 6
2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Clos des Papes
The 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape is showing beautifully, with the sun‑kissed style of the vintage yet more depth and density than most in the vintage. Blackberries, Provençal garrigue, spice, and saddle leather all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with the classic elegance of the estate in its medium to full-bodied, layered, multi‑dimensional style. It's one of the wines of the vintage and will have two decades of longevity. Drink 2024‑2044. Rated
98. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com October, 2024
$120.00 the bottle $1,530.00 the case
2022 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Le Vieux Donjon
The 2022 Châteauneuf‑du‑Pape from Le Vieux Donjon is a beautifully balanced, classic expression of the appellation, as well as this estate. It has a vivid purple hue, with ripe berry fruits, peppery herbs, floral, and sandalwood‑like aromatics. Medium to full‑bodied, it’s seamless and elegant on the palate, with ultra‑fine tannins and a great finish. This is a brilliant wine that’s already drinking well but will evolve gracefully over the next 15‑20 years. Drink 2025‑2040. Rated
95. ‑ Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com February, 2025
$67.50 the bottle $688.56 the case
2019 Hermitage La Chapelle Paul Jaboulet Aîné
Showing even better than when I tasted it last year, the 2019 Hermitage La Chapelle is another ripe, powerful, sexy, and full-bodied example of this cuvée that brings classic La Chapelle gamey darker fruits as well as smoked meats, chocolate, sandalwood, and peppery spice. Full-bodied on the palate, it has good concentration, lots of ripeness, polished tannins, and a great, great finish. As with the 2018, it's opened up beautifully on the palate since I tasted it at the domaine and is a ripe, expansive, pure, beautiful Hermitage. Rated
97. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com June, 2022
$200.00 the bottle $1,020.00 the case of 6
2018 Hermitage La Chapelle Paul Jaboulet Aîné
The 2018 Hermitage La Chapelle is a monster of a wine that brings tons of richness and depth while staying light on its feet and balanced. Lots of ripe red and blue fruits as well as flowers, smoked meat, licorice, and spice define the bouquet, and it's full-bodied, has a ripe, powerful, yet balanced mouthfeel, and a great finish. Given some previous showings of this wine, it was surprisingly accessible on this occasion, with a wealth of fruit, sweet tannins, and tons of character. It's a brilliant wine as well as a magical Hermitage. Rated
98. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com June, 2022
Opaque ruby. Displays powerful, highly perfumed aromas of black/blue fruit preserves, licorice, cola, baking spices and potpourri, along with an exotic suggestion of incense. Utterly stains the palate with intense blackberry, cherry, cassis, floral pastille and spicecake flavors that deliver a suave blend of weight and energy. Youthfully solid tannins add shape and grip to an extremely long, mineral- and floral-accented finish that shows outstanding clarity and dark fruit thrust. Drink 2028‑2040. Rated
96. Josh Raynolds,
vinous.com March, 2020
$212.50 the bottle $1,083.78 the case of 6
2017 Hermitage La Chapelle Paul Jaboulet Aîné
The 2017 Hermitage La Chapelle showed incredibly well and is a brilliant wine that's reminiscent of a richer, denser 2011. Loads of sun-kissed dark fruits, leather, graphite, and flowers, with ample spice and sandalwood nuances, give way to a full-bodied, pure, deep, multi-dimensional Hermitage that’s just about as good as it gets. The balance, length, and depth of this is something to behold, and while it unquestionably offers pleasure today, it has another 20-30 years of prime drinking ahead of it. Drink 2022‑2052. Rated
99. - Jeb Dunnuck,
jebdunnuck.com June, 2022
Saturated violet color. Intensely perfumed ripe black/blue fruits, violet candy, exotic spices and smoky minerals show fine definition and lift. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering deeply concentrated yet lively black raspberry, boysenberry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors and a late touch of licorice. Finishes smooth, sappy and extremely long, with chewy tannins lending shape and grip to resonating dark berry and floral notes. Drink 2026‑2038. Rated
95. Josh Raynolds,
vinous.com March, 2020
$195.00 the bottle $994.50 the case of 6
$412.50‑the‑1.5-litre magnum $1,051.89 the case of 3
$1,000.00 the 3‑litre double‑magnum
2022 Chablis Drouhin-Vaudon
What an absolute joy a nice, fresh glass of real Chablis can be. And the style of Joseph Drouhin seems a perfect fit for this fabled and much‑copied appellation (rappelez, l'imitation est la forme de flatterie la plus sincère …). Fresh, typically Drouhin reserve and refinement, with discreet aromas suggestive of flesh of fresh green apple, crushed seashells and a cool of the early morning harvest of fresh green grapes (some among our group of tasters found this 2022 vintage perhaps a touch more tropical; Henry noted a salted melon quality); lean and crisp but with a just ample quality on the tongue, fresh and clean and vibrant, almost thirst quenching dry white wine. Vive le vrai Chablis !
$29.99 the bottle $152.94 the case of 6
2020 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos Domaine William Fèvre
The 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos is another brilliant effort from Fèvre's immensely able winemaker, Didier Seguier, and his team. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of confit citrus, fresh bread, oyster shell, orange zest and crisp orchard fruit, it's full‑bodied, satiny and muscular, with a concentrated, tensile profile and a long, intensely saline finish. It's the broadest and most powerful wine in the range, while remaining quintessentially Chablisien. Drink 2030‑2055. Rated
96. ‑ William Kelley,
The Wine Advocate July, 2022
$125.00 the bottle $637.50 the case of 6
2022 Beaune 1er Cru Louis Jadot
From that which is arguably our most important source of fine Côte d'Or Pinot Noir and from what is also arguably the best source for value in Burgundian Pinot Noir, these are, respectively, the estimable firm of Maison Louis Jadot and the town of Beaune, itself. Beaune, the town, represents the heart and soul of the Côte d'Or (the golden slope) and, that said, the heart and soul of Burgundy. In all the hubbub, the circle, the inner circle, the comfy hotels, the myriad fine restaurants, the shopping, the actual wines of Beaune can sometimes be overlooked. But in our ever thirsty search for value in fine red Burgundy, we are most always drawn lovingly, caressingly, back to Beaune and its environs. This 2022 vintage Beaune Premier Cru of Louis Jadot is a recent and most welcome such discovery. A happy mingling of wines from among the some 42 different premiers crus of Beaune (and, yes, that is more than any other climat in Burgundy), alluringly translucent ruby/cherry skin red in color with come hither Burgundian Pinot Noir aromas suggestive of ripe cherry and baking spices, candied orange peel and the finest winegrowing soil above limestone on planet earth; slips smooth and silken onto the tongue, with flavors so deliciously typical of red Burgundy echoing those first captivating aromas with just the gentlest chalky tannins giving lift and carrying flavor long and ever so subtly on the tongue. This has us recalling the immortal words of one of our dear departed Burgundy‑loving friends forever in search of the perfect breakfast Pinot Noir, saints be praised, we may at last have found it … (And from Beaune, no less, for lunch and dinner, too!) Regularly $50.00 the bottle, on sale now at:
$42.50 the bottle $216.78 the case of 6
View more of our selection of Burgundy wines on the Burgundy page of our website.
2021 Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenottes Domaine Claudie Jobard
Claudie Jobard (daughter of Laurence Jobard, former œnologue at Joseph Drouhin) is now bottling the wines of what was Domaine Gabriel Billard, following her mother's recent retirement. The wines remain, in our estimation, among the most prized of values in red Burgundy. This Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenottes (so named for the woody/thorny vegetation that once grew here) is located just above the D974 near the turnoff to the right (the D973) as one heads toward Pommard by automobile from Beaune. According to Mme. Jobard, « a single plot but of two different ages of vines give this wine une personnalité constante with aromas of ripe fruit and very soft tannins ». The vintage of 2021 was cooler and has yielded many wines like this with more precise, even pristine and more recognizably Pinot Noir aromas suggestive of taut tart cherry, baking spices, orange peel, fine winegrowing earth and a hint of woodsmoke; taut and firm on entry, then spreading out more broadly on the palate with innervating fruity acidity, gentle astringency and fine tannins (so very useful at the dinner table) carrying delicate flavors long. This delicious red Burgundy has us contemplating a certain poulet rôti, haricots verts et pommes de terre festonnées.
$75.00 the bottle $765.00 the case
2020 Corton-Pougets Domaine des Héritiers Louis Jadot
The 2020 Corton-Pougets Grand Cru (Domaine des Héritiers Jadot) is excellent, mingling aromas of cherries and raspberries with notions of raw cocoa, orange rind, warm spices and smoke. Full-bodied, velvety and layered, it's deep and concentrated, with powdery tannins, bright acids and a long, resonant finish. Rated
(93‑95). ‑ William Kelley,
robertparker.com January, 2022
The 2020 Corton-Pougets Grand Cru is often one of Jadot’s strongest cards amongst the Côte de Beaune reds and this is no different. It has a captivating bouquet with earthy red fruit, graphite, just a faint hint of menthol that emerges with time. The palate is medium‑bodied with sappy red fruit, lightly spiced with a dash of white pepper towards the sustained finish. It will require several years in bottle to show its best, but it will be worth waiting for. Drink 2027‑2050. Rated
(94‑96). ‑ Neal Martin,
vinous.com November, 2021
$137.50 the bottle $701.28 the case of 6
$275.00 the 1.5‑litre magnum $701.25 the case of 3
2020 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos Saint-Jacques Domaine Louis Jadot
The 2020 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos Saint-Jacques (Domaine Louis Jadot) is shaping up brilliantly, wafting from the glass with aromas of raspberries and plums mingled with sweet spices, orange rind and peonies. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and concentrated, it's bright and precise, with a layered core of fruit and a long, penetrating finish. Rated
(93‑95). - William Kelley,
robertparker.com January, 2022
The 2020 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos Saint-Jacques 1er Cru has a well-defined bouquet with crisp blackberry, briary, crushed stone and light eucalyptus aromas that blossom with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fine acidity, fleshy and harmonious with a touch of spice towards its very cohesive and sustained finish. Classy. Drink 2026‑2055. Rated
(93‑95). - Neal Martin,
vinous.com November, 2021
$250.00 the bottle $1,275.00 the case of 6
$500.00 the 1.5‑litre magnum $1,275.00 the case of 3
2023 Côte de Brouilly Château Thivin
The vineyard parcels of Château Thivin Côte de Brouilly are predominantly south-facing and are planted entirely with Gamay vines that average 50 years of age on steep (48% grade) slopes of blue volcanic rock comprised of plagioclase and biotite on the Mont Brouilly. Importer Kermit Lynch has famously described the wine as resembling "a country squire who is not afraid to get his boots muddy. Handsome, virile, earthy, and an aristocrat." Château Thivin Côte de Brouilly is long among our favorite of the Beaujolais crus. Translucent purple ruby to fuchsia at the edges in color with fermentive and fleshy, gently reduced post‑volcanic Gamay fruit suggestive of a compote de baies mélangées together with notions baking spices, violet and an underpinning of crushed stone (graphite and granite); crunchy berry Beaujolais again (Henry found it more lithe and taut and all the while silky) on the palate, with a refreshing, bursting, vibrant mouthwatering intensity of flavor that is just irresistible.
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
View more of our selection of Beaujolais wines on the Burgundy page of our website.
2023 Beaujolais-Villages Coteaux de Colette Domaine de Colette Jacky Gauthier
Produce of 100% Gamay noir à jus blanc hand-harvested from vines planted to granitic soils an average age of 45 years with south/southest exposures
ruby/purple in color with aromas redolent of ripe dark berries and crushed stone (Henry noted and suggestion of raspberry and petrichor); vibrantly fruity/grapey on the tongue, energetic with a gentle nudge from prickly tannins and fresh crisp acidity. Delicious, have another glass kind of stuff.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Mâcon-Villages Chardonnay Louis Jadot
Produce of 100% Chardonnay fruit from the Mâconnais area in southern Burgundy; vinified without oak to retain the wine’s elegant aromas and clean, fresh character; pale yellow/gold in color with ultra-fresh aromas suggesting, flesh of crisp apple and pear, just a hint of citrus and a fresh delicate green herbal quality (comme cerfeuil); cool and crisp on the tongue, ultra-refreshing, chalky dry with an easy-going minerality and refreshing berryish acidity; a completely delicious quaff of crisp, clean Burgundian Chardonnay.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2022 Mâcon-Villages Claude Manciat Marie-Pierre Manciat
Produce of 100% Chardonnay from the rolling hills of the Mâcon-Villages. Aromas of just ripe golden berries and lemon pith give way to a delicate white floral tone. A moment in the glass and some air give way to aromas of crushed rocks and salted almonds. The palatte is oh-so inviting. Soft and supple, with a warm golden fruit character. Cooling, fresh acidity carries the day and lets the lingering mineral tension draw you back for another sip.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2022 Saint-Véran Le Clos Claude Manciat Marie Pierre Manciat
Aromas of glittering green berries and fresh Anjou pear are enervated by a salty sea-spray minerality and a deeper sense of petrichor. The wine smells fresh, brisk even. It does not disappoint on the palatte. Crisp tart berry fruit and green apple skin are carried on a energetic, vertical current. The typically suave texture of Chardonnay is buttressed by a jolt of fresh acidity and a lingering sense of limestone minerality.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2022 Pouilly-Fuissé Courtelong Claude Manciat Marie-Pierre Manciat
From the sun-drenched limestone and granite hills of Pouilly-Fuissé, the aromas of ripe golden berries, warm orchard fruit and citrus oil speak to the ripeness and generosity characteristic of the appellation. The palate tells a different story. Full of tension and freshness, this wine has balance on it's mind over decadence. Still generous with a burst of chardonnay fruit and a hint of toasted baguette but it's the mineral limestone character that has the lasting impact.
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2022 Saint-Véran Joseph Drouhin
The lovely village of Saint‑Vérand (note the different spelling) is located half‑hidden amongst the hills in the Mâconnais region of southern Burgundy, between Pouilly‑Fuissé and the Beaujolais. Its Jurassic chalky soils are a continuation of the limestone strata found in the Côte d'Or and are ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes. Harvested by hand the grapes are immediately and gently pressed, then passed into stainless steel to undergo a slow and cool fermentation. The wine is bottled the following spring to retain its inherent freshness, fruitiness and roundness. Green‑gold in color with at once discreet, pure and vibrant Chardonnay aromas suggesting flesh of crisp green apple, citrus and stone; fine, elegant Chardonnay flavors are refreshingly crisp and mineral, but at the same time broadening on the tongue, becoming more sumptuous and satisfying, delivering a nice wallop of excellent dry white Burgundy wine.
$27.50 the bottle $140.28 the case of 6
2023 Saint-Véran Clos de l'Ermitage Sainte-Claude Thevenet & Fils
Produce of 100% Chardonnay fruit from the Clos de l'Ermitage Saint-Claude vineyard in Prissé near the rocks of Solutré and Vergisson. The vines here are 70 years of age on average, planted to argilo-calcaire soils at elevations of 200 mètres with southerly exposition that yield a richer, somewhat more opulent wine, one that is aged en cuve (read, no oak; quite apparently, no oak aging is necessary with this excellent raw material). Brilliant yellow/gold in color with fetching southern Burgundian Chardonnay aromas suggestive of orchard fruits, beeswax, citrus zest, summer rain-moistened limestone and, with air, a hint of cerfeuil (Thevenet themselves note aromas of linden and jasmine); ample, just rounded on the tongue and yet poised and light on its feet, both satisfying and refreshing with a certain sapidity and the nerve of crisp citrusy acidity keeping things fresh to the finish. Simply lovely southern Burgundian white wine.
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2022 Etna Rosso Tenuta delle Terre Nere
Etna Rosso is, for us, a most wonderful if somewhat recent discovery of some, um, magmatude. And Tenuta delle Terre Nere have emerged a favorite producer of the wine among our discerning clientèle. This Etna Rosso, their opening salvo among a number of delicious bottlings, is produced from a preponderance of Nerello Mascalese along with a dash of Nerello Cappuccio fruit from the young vines of the estate cropped at low yields of around 35 hectolitres per hectare and growing on the hillsides of the famous volcano on the eastern edge of the island of Sicily. Absolutely gorgeous translucent deep ruby in color with a certain vinosità what with almost almost fermentive aromas of crushed ripe berries, grape pomace, rose petals and stone; deceptively supple on entry, then building in body with a steady crescendo of substantial ripe tannins, power and volcanic warmth on the tongue. While there has been a good deal of comparison of Etna Rosso to Burgundian Pinot Noir, the aromatic profile is really quite different and the silken-textured opening quickly gives way, builds into somewhat more of a southern powerhouse on the tongue, with fine‑grained tannins seemingly carrying bursting flavors right on up that hill, potent and long to the finish. Maybe a comparison to a mythical marriage of Chambolle‑Musigny and Châteauneuf‑du‑Pape would be more apt but, then again, no. Etna Rosso is sui generis. One might say it enters on silken slippers, all carefree, island-hopping light on its feet, but goes out with a firm and forceful resolve, as one might reasonably expect of a wine whose vines' dance partner is the stuff of an active volcano.
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2023 Pinot Bianco Vigneti delle Dolomiti Terra Alpina Alois Lageder
From the Terra Alpina, this special land of contrasts in northern Italia between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. Limpid pale yellow/gold in color with Alpine fresh aromas suggesting brisk pure clean mountain air, crisp apple (the Südtirol is the largest closed apple‑producing region in the EU according to
wikipedia), straw,
fiori bianchi and underneath it all, the suggestion of rain‑moistened dolomitic limestone; easy breezy on the tongue, with lovely interplay between ripe fruit and gentle fresh acidity, this is a quaff among quaffs, for sure; pure, flavorful, fresh and clean on the finish as the Alpine summer days are long.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2023 Pinot Bianco Weißburgunder Südtirol‑Alto Adige J. Hofstätter
Pinot Bianco (Pinot Blanc) is on the rise in the Alto Adige. And Hofstätter's 2023 vintage normale is a brilliant example. Produce of 100% Pinot Blanc from vines planted to light marl soils; straw yellow in color with alluringly fresh aromas of suggestive of apple, peach and fresh melon atop a base of crushed stone and just a hint of petrichor; tantalizingly crisp and vivid on the tongue, enticing, flavorful, causing some serious salivation and just begging for a spread of antipasti and or a nice fresh piece of pan‑seared white fish with a touch of butter and fresh green herb.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2024 Pinot Grigio Alto Adige Valle Isarco Abbazia di Novacella
From 100% Pinot Grigio fruit grown in the Bressanone valley basin at elevations of 600 meters to 900 meters, well on your way into the Alps from Bolzano and what is one of the loveliest vineyard situations one might imagine (there is even a ski area above the town of Bressanone); pale yellow/gold with glints of green in color; brisk, mountain fresh aromatics suggest taut cool of the morning grapes, pine, mint, cool melon, orchard fruits, hazelnut (knowing where this wine is grown really just stirs the imagination); crisp, vibrant and fresh on the tongue yet ample in body, supple and satisfying with a lovely, nervy Alpine intensity of flavor that lasts.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2023 Chardonnay Altkirch Südtirol Alto Adige Colterenzio
Produce of 100% Chardonnay from deep sandy soils on gravelly deposits in the otherworldly gorgeous Südtirol-Alto Adige of northeastern Italia. Temperature‑controlled (read cool) fermentation in stainless steel tanks (read unoaked), the new wine subsequently matures for several months on the fine lees. The result is a brilliant, shimmering lemon yellow/gold with glints of green in color; ultra‑fresh aromas suggestive of vines in flower, flesh and skin of fresh green apple, melon and mango; supple and nicely rounded on the tongue with just a hint of citrus and saline mineral tang; both satisfying and refreshing, and all for a price so gulpably easy on the pocketbook.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Pinot Nero (Blauburgunder) Vigneti delle Dolomiti Meczan J. Hofstätter
Given the changing climate and the generally warming weather in northern Europe, Pinot Noir is becoming ever more important from what were once considered more marginal climes for the grape/wine (the Alto Adige, Alsace and Germany come immediately to mind); lovely translucent light ruby/cherry skin red in color; with aromas subtly suggestive of wild strawberry, cherry pit, the scent of baking spice and dried orange peel; at once, supple, crisp and gently bracing onto the tongue with bright, fresh mouthwatering acidity that deftly carries delicate flavors fresh to the finish. And, this is one of Lucinda's absolute faves!
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2020 Pinot Nero Filari di Mazzon Alto Adige Ferruccio Carlotto
We eagerly bring in every bottle of the minuscule amount of Pinot Nero we’re offered from Carlotto, and it’s always one of the dreamiest versions of the variety we import — ethereal and bright, with notes of orange peel and pink peppercorn. Pinot Nero is transformed into a weightless and perfumed rosso in the hands of Michela Carlotto and her father, Ferruccio. I open Filari di Mazzon to enchant guests who have a palate for elegant wines. ‑ Jane Augustine,
Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, November, 2024
$47.50 the bottle $484.56 the case
2024 Orvieto Classico Superiore Terre Vineate Palazzone
"Unquestionably the number one small estate of Orvieto" according to Stephen Tanzer, Palazzone produces delicious white wines from indigenous grape varietals of Umbria, balancing irresistible fruit aromas and flavors with an oh‑so stony backdrop and nerve; produce of 50% Procanico, 25% Grechetto and 15% Verdello and 10% Malvasia vinified in stainless steel to keep things fresh; vibrant aromas speak clearly of cool of the morning harvest fresh grapes and notions of floral honey, citrus, beeswax and something like hazelnut and elderflower and, yet again, stone; at once, medium‑bodied, and supremely balanced, just ample and rounded on the tongue, tactile, then crisp and dusty, citrusy dry and alive with ultra fresh, vibrant, citrusy, mineral flavor. Just scrumptious!
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore Bucci
Produce of 100% organically‑farmed Verdicchio grapes from vines on average 35‑plus years in age and planted to the clay/limestone soils in this golden zone of the Marche in northeastern Italia; shimmering yellow/gold in color with aromas immediately suggestive of lemon or bergamot-like citrus flower, orchard fruits and the flesh of yellow/golden apple (a number of experts have historically noted bitter almond as well; Carol noted its Adriatic salinity); ample, full, rounded and satisfying on the tongue yet with vibrant citrusy acidity and pithiness that serve to amplify the wine's considerable volume and intensity of flavor on the finish.
$19.99 the bottle $203.88 the case
2021 Malvasia Pètris Collio Venica
Shimmering, pristine yellow/gold in color with immediate and alluring aromas of yellow fruits like prugna mirabella (both Chris and Henry both sensed tropical fruit like guava; Venica themselves note apricot and aromatic herbs such as sage and thyme) and, for us, an almost palpable minerality; fully engaging on the palate, at once both tender, firmly mineral and gently saline, stirring the salivary glands and staying fresh with remarkable intensity of flavor long on the finish.
$27.50 the bottle $140.28 the case of 6
2018 Brunello di Montalcino Eredi Fuligni
It takes a good amount of time for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass, as a cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweetly scented mix of dried roses, sugar‑dusted cherries and hints of exotic spice. This is a round and supple 2018, communicating elegance through its velvety textures, polished ripe red fruits and cascading inner violet florals. There’s opulence here, yet also the acidity to balance, as the 2018 tapers off long with classically refined tannins, yet leaves the palate perfectly reset for another sip. Frankly, it’s hard to put this glass down. There will be no Riserva produced in 2018, and so all of that juice was used to bolster this open‑knit and seductive Brunello. Drink 2025‑2033. Rated
93. ‑ Eric Guido,
vinous.com October, 2022
$95.00 the bottle $484.50 the case
2022 Rosso di Montalcino Tenuta Il Poggione
Produced entirely from hand‑harvested Sangiovese grapes, sourced from the estate's younger vineyards, this perennially excellent and emblematic Rosso di Montalcino is aged in a combination of botti grandi and tonneau of 350‑litre capacity before a period of bottle aging. Translucent ruby garnet in color with aromas suggestive of sanguine roasted red berry fruit, singed earth, saddle leather, macchea mediterranea and more; just plump on entry with shape and volume, then demonstrating a gentle structure of rounded tannins and nerve and a push of fruity intensity leaving the mouth fresh and pleasingly challenged.
$27.50 the bottle $280.56 the case
2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Argenina Podere Il Palazzino
Il Palazzino's 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Argenina is terrific. Bright, poised and articulate, the 2019 has a lot going for it. Wild cherry, tobacco, incense, licorice and dried flowers abound in this super-expressive Chianti Classico. Bright acids perk up the finish. I very much like the energy here. This is classic Sangiovese through and through. Drink 2023‑2034. Rated
92. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com June, 2023
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
View more of our selection of Tuscan wines on the Italia page of our website.
2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Grosso Sanese Podere Il Palazzino
Podere Il Palazzino is owned by Alessandro and Andrea Sderci and is located in Monti in Chianti, 20km northeast of Siena in the southern part of Chianti Classico. The estate has a total of about 20 hectares (roughly 50 acres), the greater part of which is dedicated to viticulture and a small part to olive groves. Given the small dimensions of the estate working procedures are strictly manual and the soil is cultivated using organic methods. Grosso Sanese originates from a vineyard covering about 2 hectares just below the casa and cantina of the estate. The fairly compact clay/calcareous soils here are composed mainly of alberese and galestro. The vines are pruned in the spurred cordon method, leaving a maximum of six buds per plant. Production is limited to 5,000 to 6,000 litres per hectare for a total production of about 10,000 bottles per year. Fermentation takes place in 5,000‑liter oak barrels. The wine is refined in barriques made of Alliers oak, thirty percent of which are replaced each year. Here it stays for eighteen months, before the final blending and bottling. The wine then ages for another six months in bottle before being released for sale. Produce of 100% Sangiovese, ruby/garnet to just tawnier at the edges in color with aromas suggestive of leather, the scent of fine cured meats, sanguine and gamy, with further suggestion of teaberry, rose petal, liquirizia and a hint of petrichor following rain on baking summertime soils of alberese and galestro; potent and warming onto the tongue with firm stony but notably fine Sangiovese tannins giving structure and heft, savory and long on flavor to the finish (this took on even more heft with a bit of air). Steak florentine, perhaps, with your Gran Selezione, signore? Sì, sì, sì …
$62.50 the bottle $637.56 the case
2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Grosso Sanese Podere Il Palazzino
Il Palazzino's Chianti Classico Grosso Sanese is often one of the great wines of Chianti Classico, as it is once again in 2016. Dark, somber and explosive, the 2016 possesses off the charts intensity to match its brooding personality. Black cherry, scorched earth, tobacco, licorice and incense hit the palate. Deep and layered in the glass, the 2016 is superimpressive. What a wine! Il Palazzino is, inexplicably, one of the most under the radar estates in all of Chianti Classico. Alessandro and Andrea Sderci craft, rich, large‑scaled Chianti Classicos that capture all of the natural intensity of Monti in Chianti, where the estate is located. Readers who have not tasted these wines owe it to themselves to do so. Drink 2022‑2031. Rated
96. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com June, 2022
$50.00 the bottle $510.00 the case
2021 Chianti Colli Senesi Fèlsina Berardenga
The 2021 Chianti Colli Senesi is terrific. Wild cherry, tobacco, dried herbs, menthol and licorice convey the earthy, savory intensity that is such a signature of the appellation. Sweet floral top notes and refined tannins elevate the Colli Senesi in 2021. Drink 2023‑2031. Rated
90. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com June, 2023
$19.99 the bottle $229.56 the case
2019 Chianti Classico Riserva Fèlsina Berardenga
The 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva is a dark, brooding wine. The darker side of Sangiovese comes through in a potent, strapping Riserva. Black cherry, incense, tobacco, smoke, game and dried herbs give the Riserva its bold personality, as do the burly tannins that wrap it all together. Today, the 2019 is a bit rustic, but certainly full of character. Drink 2023‑2034. Rated
91. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com June, 2022
$37.50 the bottle $382.56 the case
2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia Fèlsina Berardenga
The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is fascinating to taste next to the Rancia, as the two parcels are adjacent. Rich and substantial in the glass, Colonia is textured and ample, qualities that become increasingly apparent over time. Rugged, rocky terrain seems to amplify power, explosive verticality and acidity. Drink 2026‑2043. Rated
97. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com September, 2021
$100.00 the bottle $510.00 the case of 6
2020 Chianti Classico Fontodi
The 2020 Chianti Classico offers notable tension to balance the natural richness that is such a signature here. There is plenty of Panzano intensity, but less opulence than has been the norm in the past. A shift towards larger format oak and bottling four months earlier contribute to that feel. Dark red cherry, leather, spice, rose petal, dried herbs and wild flowers all grace this nuanced Chianti Classico. It will be interesting to see the direction this bottling takes. I would not plan on opening this too young. Drink 2026‑2040. Rated
92+. - Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com June, 2023
$50.00 the bottle $510.00 the case
2016 Chianti Classico Tocca Stelle Dievole
Dievole covers an area of 600 hectares within the Chianti Classico territory in Vagliagli, about 12 km north of Siena. Beginning from 450 meters above sea level, the medieval hamlet where Villa Dievole is perched, overlooking the valley in which the estate slopes down to the southeast in gentle rolling hills ending at an altitude of around 300 meters. A long cypress-lined avenue leads to the heart of the estate; a stunning Tuscan panorama opens, and from there a dense network of strade bianche alternates with olive trees, vineyards and farmhouses. It is an unforgettable landscape in which nature, history and culture together with centuries of man’s work have created a beautiful land that enchants all who would be enchanted. Here wine and extra virgin olive oil have been produced for nearly a thousand years. Tocca Stelle was born from a desire to produce a high-quality classically Tuscan wine using a vineyard planted 40 plus years ago. Produce of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and 5% Colorino from the arguably brilliant 2016 vintage in Tuscany and in a such a good place for drinking right now as almost fully mature wine with just oodles of typicity; limpid ruby to just garnet at the edges with sanguine Sangiovese aromas suggest singed dark berries, leather and the Tuscan underbrush (Henry noted a touch spice like cardamom and nutmeg); dusty dry with a sweet inner core of fruit transformed, almost weightless on the tongue with gentle length of highly complex flavor. It has this taster craving a classic Bistecca alla Fiorentina prepared with the very highest quality salt. Regularly $40.00 the bottle, on sale now at:
$29.99 the bottle $152.94 the case of 6
2020 Toscana Grifi Avignonesi
A super-Tuscan blend of 50% Sangiovese from Montepulciano and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon half each from Montepulciano and nearby Cortona, all organically farmed. Deep midnight ruby in color with powerful aromas of plump purple berries, soil and stone (Demetrius noted baking spices, Darcie noted a touch of cocoa, and with more air there was also a sense of petrichor); full throttle and powerful onto the tongue with a notable intensity of flavor, this is a gripping, potent, structured, succulent (Darcie called it generous and chewy) red wine with significant fine tannins suggesting consumption with grilled red meats slathered with Tuscan extra virgin olive oil, slow cooked meats and or strong cheeses; Avignonesi themselves suggest that the wine demonstrates the freshness of Sangiovese perfectly merged with the backbone of Cabernet Sauvignon. Sì, è quello.
$32.50 the bottle $165.78 the case
2018 Montefalco Rosso Tenuta Alzatura
Produce of fruit of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Merlot and 15% Sagrantino vines planted to clay/limestone/sandy soils at 250 meters of elevation in Umbria in central Italia; ruby red to just garnet at the edges in color with typical Sangiovese aromas suggestive of sweet cured meats, cherries, macchea mediterranea and the dusty summertime vineyard floor (eventually, with air, there was the scent of rose petals and a hint of liquirizia); slips smoothly onto the tongue with gentle Sangiovese astringency (the more fierce tannins of the Sangiovese and Sagrantino are ameliorated here by the softer Merlot); simply lovely Italian picnic red, perfect to cut against the oil of a good salami or to foil hard cheeses, and perfect for mid-week pasta and pizza, too.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Valpolicella Brigaldara
Produce of 55% Corvina, 25% Corvinone and 20% Rondinella fruit hand-harvested from 45 hectares of vines planted from 1970 to 1980 at 150 to 200 mètres in elevation at Marcellise near Verona. The vines are trained in both the Guyot and the
Pergola Veronese methods. Limpid ruby red in color with subtle yet alluringly complex aromas suggesting rose petals, black and red berries, dried cherries and an inkling of orange peel, spice and earth; supple on entry, then expanding to almost velvety in texture, demonstrating a certain spine and presence without weight and the gentlest tannins carrying delicate but persistent flavors long on the finish. In a word,
vinosità.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2021 Valpolicella Superiore Case Vecie Brigaldara
The 2021 Valpolicella Superiore Case Vecie is especially floral and lifted, with a vivid bouquet of dusty roses, dried strawberries and hints of sour orange. This is a model of purity, its crisp red berry fruits and tactile mineral tones guided by juicy acidity. The 2021 finishes incredibly fresh, revealing a pleasant tannic crunch as hints of tart cherry slowly fade. Simply stunning, the single-vineyard Valpolicella Superiore Case Vecie is produced without the use of appassimento. Drink 2024‑2028. Rated
92. - Eric Guido,
vinous.com December, 2023
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2019 Valpolicella Classico Superiore Poiega Roberto Mazzi e Figli
Produce of 65% Corvina, 5% Corvinone, 25% Rondinella and 5% Molinara fruit harvested late in the season (mid‑November) from 2½ hectares of vines in the Poiega vineyard near Negrar. Alluring medium translucent ruby in color to just lighter tawnier at the edges with rich blue‑fruited berry and rose petal aromas; ample and, if the Sanperetto is silken in texture, the Poiega goes somewhere between silk and satin and velvet, ultra tactile wine, this, with gentle but palpable intensity and persistence of flavor carried long on the finish by jittery fine‑grained tannins.
$29.99 the bottle $305.88 the case
2023 Langhe Nebbiolo Gavarini Elio Grasso
Vibrant translucent ruby with fiery orange reflections in color with aromas suggestive of ciliegia marasca (Morello cherry) and a delicate version of that special soil‑inflected Piemontese tar and roses; supple, delicate onto the tongue, then demonstrating (typical of Nebbiolo) refreshingly tart crisp tannins; ever so mouthwatering and delicately but intensely flavorful; one could envision using this wine in place of that $30(ish) bottle of high‑quality Bourgogne Rouge that has become so elusive these days.
$32.50 the bottle $165.78 the case
View more of our selection of Piemontese wines on the Italia page of our website.
2022 Pinot Nero dell'Oltrepò Pavese Costa del Nero
From 100% Pinot Noir fruit grown at elevation in the Oltrepò Pavese, Lombardia in northern Italia not far from Milano. To be sure, Pinot Nero is no stranger to northern Italy. And given the climate change induced difficulties with Pinot Noir in Burgundy, the more sources for viable Pinot from anywhere close to the quality we are able to get from Burgundy, the merrier. Medium ruby to garnet at the edges in color with subtle aromas that quietly sing ripe happy berries, the grape jujubes of this wine taster's youth, a hint of petrichor; supple and silky onto the tongue, holding its shape well; demonstrating a delicious freshness and length of flavor.
$27.50 the bottle $280.56 the case
2021 Etna Rosso Ghiai Nera Tenuta Tascante
The Tascante Ghiaia Nera is a cuvee of Nerello Mascalese from three incredibly biodiverse Etna contrade vineyards on the north side of Mount Etna – Piano Dario, Rampante and Sciaranuova. Surrounded by chestnut trees and downy oak, these terraced volcanic vineyard sites produce supremely balanced wines that embody the freshness and restrained power for which Etna is known. Translucent ruby to tawny at the edges in color; smoky berry upfront (ghiai nera translates to black gravel), then red berry and earth (Nick noted black cherry and red floral tones); opens and freshens with aeration of a quick double decanting; silken on entry then building in ashen stone tannins that carry bursting berry flavors deliciously long on the finish.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2022 Pecorino Colline Pescaresi La Valentina
La Valentina is a leading example of the modern renaissance of winemaking in Abruzzo. The region has a history as a source of inexpensive bulk wine production, but a new generation of winemakers have dedicated themselves to harnessing the excellent terroir to produce high quality rather than high quantity — and La Valentina is at the forefront of this movement. The di Properzio brothers, proprietors of La Valentina, remain true to the traditional varieties associated with Abruzzo: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, along with a time‑honored but almost forgotten variety, Pecorino. The shift in focus is not in the grapes but in the way they are grown and vinified. La Valentina has acquired several vineyard sites that are located at higher elevations in the foothills of the Apennines, near a national park in pristine condition. In all of their vineyards, La Valentina have made a strong commitment to sustainability, avoiding the use of artificial or chemical products, ensuring maximum biodiversity and relying on minimal intervention in the land’s natural processes. To this end, all the estate vineyards have been certified organic since 2016. The name of the Pecorino grape is derived from Uve delle Pecora, a reference to the sheepherders who ate the grapes while accompanying their flocks across the hills and valleys of Abruzzo and the Marche. The wine is produced from 100% Pecorino fruit from vines planted to the clay soils of the communes of San Valentino, Scafa, and Spoltore in the province of Pescara, some 150 to 350 meters in elevation. Pale yellow/gold in color with initially reticent, eventually enticing aromas suggestive of stone fruits and salt sea air; silken smooth, tactile and viscous onto the tongue with a wellspring of energy, engaging the palate with a fresh saline minerality and hyper-refreshingness.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2023 Vermentino di Gallura Superiore Jankara
Vermentino is the workhorse white wine grape variety grown around the span of southeastern France and the northwestern and western coasts of Italy down to Tuscany and to the islands of Corsica and Sardegna. It seems especially well adapted to the coastal vineyards of the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian seas (this wine is more clear evidence). Produce of 100% Vermentino hand harvested from vines planted in 2008 to the primarily crushed granite soils of microclimate of Vena di San Leonardo in the Alta-Gallura; vivid yellow/platinum in color with glints of green and ultra fresh aromas that make this taster want to travel again with reminiscence of sweet ripe green gold berries kissed with the fresh salt sea air and a hint of ginestra and the vine leaf itself lending pith (Jankara themselves suggest aromas of Sardinian mandarin and white almond flowers); just ample on entry, then fresh and vibrant on the tongue, almost as though the wine inherently wants to bubble, with an intensity of flavor and saline minerality that stir the salivary glands long and fresh on the finish.
$19.99 the bottle $101.94 the case of 6
2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Avignonesi
The 2019 Nobile di Montepulciano is a total pleasure on the nose. Sweet spice complements bright raspberry and cherry aromas. This envelopes the palate with silky textures balanced by juicy acidity as rose-tinged red berries cascade across the palate. It leaves a gentle coating of fine tannins while maintaining a lovely energy as hard red candy hints fade. Drink 2023‑2029. Rated
91. ‑ Eric Guido,
vinous.com July, 2023.
$19.99 the bottle $203.88 the case
2022 Cannonau di Sardegna Costera Argiolas
Produce of about 85% Cannonau, 10% Carignano and 5% Bovale Sardo planted to pebbly, calcareous clay-loam soils with southeastern exposures on the island of Sardegna. Cannonau is also known as Garnacha in Spain, as Grenache in France and elsewhere. It is unclear from where it originated but, suffice to say, it is very much at home in Sardegna. Pale translucent ruby to just tawnier at the edges with alluring aromas of red berries and spice, a gentle scent of
macchia mediterranea and a certain overarching
vinosità; supple on entry, almost silky in texture, medium-full in body with a warming grip of jittery fine granular tannins carrying a gentle intensity of spicy berryish flavors long on the finish.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
Crémant de Bourgogne Les Terroirs Brut Louis Picamelot
For our part, we've found of late that it just doesn't pay to try and do Champagne on the cheap, that we're better off looking outside that jaded geography to find as fine if not finer sparkling wine indeed for the bubbles buck that needs to stretch on out a bit. The fine Crémant de Bourgogne sparkling wines of Louis Picamelot are just such a find. The House of Picamelot was founded in 1926 and is located in Rully in the Côte Chalonnaise in Burgundy. The winemaking facility is located at and makes good use of an old quarry site just outside the village, with the quite cool cellars dug into the solid rock there. This cuvée, the Louis Picamelot Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Les Terroirs, represents just over 2⁄3 of the production here and, as such, is thankfully most always available now here in beautiful downtown Austin! Produce of about 60% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay and 10% Aligoté, all hand-picked from the Côte Chalonnaise, Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits. Really lovely slate of aromas suggestive of toast and orchard fruits, say pêche de vigne, apricot, green apple then, closer to the ground, fresh grapes on chalky limestone soils; full, vibrant, expansive mousse that then spreads itself richly on the tongue with flavors of toasted orchard fruits a most expressive and satisfying reprise of those first whiffs. This is ultra-satisfying and flavorful sparkling wine for a very attractive price. Champagne on the cheap? Nah! This is Crémant de Bourgogne that'll do you proud. Do come and get it!
$27.50 the bottle $140.28 the case of 6
Crémant de Bourgogne Les Terroirs Brut Rosé Louis Picamelot
And simply superb in pink as well. Produce of 100% Côte Chalonnaise Pinot Noir fruit. The color here is a lovely rose to sunset orange pink at the edges; aromas that define allure, you can almost smell the refreshment to come, with a pinch of spice and a kiss of red berry and a real sense of that wonderful stony Burgundian wine-growing soil underpinning; this one has both body and refreshingness as well as something that simply piques, perhaps pinches, but certainly imbues the imbiber with the feeling of having consumed ever so well with a nervy freshness and spiced red berry flavors that linger in most welcome reprise. This is like bottled joie de vivre. Get some!
$27.50 the bottle $140.28 the case of 6
Paul Chollet Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Rosé
Produce of fruit from vineyards in the Côte de Beaune, Côte de Nuits, the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune and Hautes-Côtes de Nuits, the blending of which offers all the balance, generosity, and strength of character of the Burgundian terroir as demonstrated by its most noble vine, the Pinot noir. Lovely sunset peach-skin pink to rose red with glints of copper in color; aromas redolent of Pinot noir with typical red berry fruits, say strawberry, raspberry, and cherry all, a veritable cornucopia of baies rouges mélangées; fine, persistent yet delicate sparkle, fresh and easy on the palate, hyper-refreshing, so delicious and so just begging another pull. Fine, fine bubbles from Burgundy!
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Blanc de Blancs Cuvée Agnès Vitteaut-Alberti
Maison Vitteaut‑Alberti was founded in 1951 in Rully in the Côte Chalonnaise by M. Lucien Vitteaut and his wife née Alberti, who chose to specialise in the production of sparkling white wines using the Méthode Champenoise. Today they are operating among the most highly‑regarded sparkling wine operations in Burgundy from Rully in the Côte Chalonnaise, about twenty minutes south of Beaune. The Cuvée Agnès (Agnès is the granddaughter of the founders, now active in the company) is a blend of a strict selection of 100% Chardonnay grapes coming from the Côte Chalonnaise and the Côte de Beaune. Brilliant yellow/gold in color with just a wealth of fine bubbles; ultra fresh aromas titillate the nostrils with suggestion of stone fruits, citrus blossom, ultra‑fine brioche just in the oven; ultra‑fine on the palate, too, with a delicate froth, poised, balanced, almost spherical in shape; then, a freshness of flavor that resonates long. Among the finest Crémants de Bourgogne that we've encountered. And we've encountered, mmmm, quite a few.
$29.99 the bottle $152.94 the case of 6
Champagne Le Mesnil Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru
Produce of 100% Chardonnay from grand cru vineyards near Le Mesnil sur Oger, in the heart of the Côte des Blancs — holy ground for lovers of the finest Champagne. This bottling represents some 2⁄3 of the production of the very well-run cooperative that is Champagne Le Mesnil. Brilliant white-gold in color, this Brut Blanc de Blancs has a lovely harmony of elements, fresh and most enticing and inviting aromas suggestive of melon, cool of the morning grape plucked from the vine, buttered biscuit and flower pollen; nice medium-full mousse, then expansive on the tongue and supremely flavorful, its crisp fresh chalky dry finish just begging another delicious pull.
$42.50 the bottle $433.56 the case
$24.99 the 375ml half-bottle $254.88 the case of 12
$95.00 the 1.5-litre magnum $484.50 the case 6
Champagne Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé
In the year 1818, Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon were married, following which they decided to found Maison Billecart‑Salmon in Mareuil‑sur‑Aÿ, the family’s home town. Subsequently, Nicolas François joined forces with Louis Salmon, his wife’s brother. He oversaw all the commercial activity whilst his brother‑in‑law, who was passionate about oenology, dedicated himself to the creation of the wines. In the 1970s, Jean Roland‑Billecart began to pursue the production of a Brut Rosé, his objective to create a Champagne pale in colour with flavour distinguished by its freshness and subtle notes of red berries. The gamble paid off and their Brut Rosé has since become the flagship cuvée of the house. And Champagne Billecart‑Salmon Brut Rosé is now long a favorite of our discerning clientèle. Attractive copper pink to silver at the rim in color with cool come hither aromas suggestive of fresh berries and cream, a hint of wintergreen and toasted baguette; an immediate presence on the tongue, ample in body and nicely rounded with a generous froth engaging, almost embracing the palate; chalky dry and intensely fresh and flavorful to the finish, an absolute joy of a sparkling wine.
$100.00 the bottle $1,020.00 the case
Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Brut
Laurent-Perrier are one of only a few houses with such a high reputation for their sparkling rosé production. Tasting this for the first time in too, too long, we now understand the pourquoi of it more completely. Produce of 100% Pinot Noir fruit from 10 different crus mainly in the Montagne de Reims, the wine demonstrates a brilliant array of pinks in color like some of those available in the finest 'city of the violet crown' sunsets; alluringly fresh and decidedly red berry fruits on the nose; Henry noted crunchy red fruits on the palate, too, and a blood orange like citrus quality; Ian noted a saline and citrus quality; and there is an overarching sense of equilibrium with this wine that makes it a most affable and quaffable affair, finishing with a flourish of freshness and flavor. Strange as it may seem for us to say, pink Champagne is no sure thing. Champagne Laurent‑Perrier, on the other hand, make it look like une promenade dans le parc. Laissez couler le Champagne rosé!
$87.50 the bottle $446.28 the case of 6
$212.50 the 1.5-litre magnum $541.89 the case 3
Champagne Palmer Brut Réserve
Produced from about 1⁄2 Chardonnay, 1⁄3 Pinot Noir and the balance Pinot Meunier from a selection of the most prestigious terroirs in Champagne with premier and grand crus from the Montagne de Reims predominating and making their distinctive mark. A significant proportion of from 30% to 40% reserve wines contributes a rare fullness and maturity. Brilliant light lemon yellow/platinum in color with an abundance of vibrant bubbles shimmering upward; fine and discreet aromas suggest citrus blossom, citrus preserve, lightly toasted baguette and chalky stone; fine, gently frothy on entry, then building to full, round and chalky dry with a zesty lemony tang of mouthwatering refreshingness and full mineral vibrancy and satisfying potency.
$50.00 the bottle $255.00 the case of 6
Champagne Pol Roger Brut Réserve
Founded in 1849, Pol Roger is one of only a few grande marque Champagne houses that remain family owned and operated. Pol Roger Brut Réserve (White Foil) is produced from the first pressing only of fruit from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards, about ⅓ each Chardonnay from Côte des Blancs, Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims, and Pinot Meunier from Vallée de la Marne and Petite Valle d'Epernay: pale gold in color with an ultra‑fine bead; flowery, delicately toasty aroma; creamy textured, then supremely balanced on the tongue with a dry, well-rounded and harmonious finish that so elegantly cajoles another pull. We find it delectable. And, if it is true that a Champagne house be judged by the quality and consistency of their house Brut, then the house of Pol Roger, in our humble estimation, ranks among those at the very top.
$62.50 the bottle $318.78 the case of 6
Champagne J. Lassalle Brut Préférence 1er Cru
Jules Lassalle established this family-owned Champagne house in 1942 in the village of Chigny-les-Roses in the Montagne de Reims. A master of his craft, he established a signature style of elegant, tightly knit wines with a certain ampleur. When he passed away in 1982 his wife, Olga, and their daughter, Chantal Decelle-Lassalle, stepped in and took over the estate, upholding Jules’ high standards and progressively pushing the domaine to the next level. In 2006 Chantal’s daughter, Angéline Templier, joined the estate as winemaker. Their tradition of "une femme, un esprit, un style" remains. The intrepid wine explorer, Kermit Lynch, was the first to begin importing such artisanal, grower Champagne some 50(ish) years ago in the 1970s. Produce of approximately 60% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir from 16 hectares of vines on average 50 years of age near Chigny‑lès‑Roses in the Montagne de Reims. Shimmering platinum/gold (Andrea's keen sight picked up rose/gold) in color with a wealth of steady, exuberant tiny bubbles that form a halo at the surface in our favorite Champagne glass; ultra-fresh aromas suggestive of orchard fruits in the cool of a late summer's morning at 45°‑plus North (Glenn also noted suggestion of peach cobbler just in the oven); pristine, laser-like focus on the tongue, supremely balanced with both nerve and grace and flavors that discreetly reprise those fresh orchard fruit aromas and maybe add a little citrus, reflecting the magic of grapes grown on those hallowed chalky soils; all said, this is a stimulating, wholly refreshing and mouthwateringly delicious bubbly.
$50.00 the bottle $510.00 the case
Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve
Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve is produce of about 1⁄3 each Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier from a selection of approximately 60 different crus individually vinified in stainless steel. The blend contains a high proportion of about 40% reserve wines an equal mix of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and between 5 and 15 years of age. Luminous yellow/gold in color with a wealth of fine bubbles; full, toasty, doughy aromas; rich and round on the palate, sumptuous even, with a freshening zest of citrus on the finish. Brut Réserve is the splendid calling card of Champagne Charles Heidsieck.
$50.00 the bottle $255.00 the case of 6
Champagne Louis Roederer Brut Collection 244
The NV Collection 244 is gorgeous. Bright and focused, with a lovely cut, the 244 is immediately captivating. Dried pear, chamomile, herbs, mint and crushed rocks abound. Based on the 2019 vintage with 36% perpetual reserve wines from vintages 2012%#8209;2018, this vibrant, wonderfully crystalline Champagne impresses from beginning to end. Saline notes extend the finish effortlessly. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Drink 2023‑2030. Rated
93. ‑ Antonio Galloni,
vinous.com November, 2023
$57.50 the bottle $293.28 the case of 6
2013 Champagne Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Brut Blanc de Blancs
One of the last remaining family‑owned and operated champagne houses, Champagne Taittinger is today proprietor of approximately 280 hectares of vines in 34 different vineyards. The Taittinger estate is one of the three most extensive in the Champagne district, and the firm's major holdings in Chardonnay vineyards are the physical expression of the Taittinger philosophy and style. The firm's cool cellars are located in Reims, in the underground crayères that once belonged to the 13th century Abbaye de Saint‑Nicaise. The Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs is the pinnacle of their estimable production, produce of 100% Chardonnay fruit from vines in the Côte des Blancs. Sparkling platinum/yellow/gold in color with an elegant steady bead of fine bubbles and ultra‑fine aromas of top‑quality Chardonnay fruit transformed, suggesting a melding of toasted baguette, lemon preserves and wine‑moistened limestone; winsome, airy‑light and creamy on the palate, indeed fully engaging, then fine and long with supreme freshness and a delicate persistence of flavor on the finish. Superb!
$250.00 the bottle $1,275.00 the case of 6
Champagne Taittinger Brut La Française
Taittinger utilize some 40% of Chardonnay fruit in crafting their maison Brut La Française, lending a certain refinement to the wine, characteristic of the house style. Subtle, pale gold in color with a fine steady bead of ultra fine bubbles; delicate lemon and limestone aromas, with nuance of stone fruits and pastry dough; a fine froth broadens out balanced and well-rounded, almost spherical on the tongue with delicate toast and citrus flavors; finishing deliciously crisp and dry. Très élégant, trés raffiné, très Taittinger!
$50.00 the bottle $255.00 the case of 6
Crémant de Loire Cuvée Platinum Château d'Avrillé
Le Château d’Avrillé has been a family domain for 4 generations now. Their 200 hectares of vineyards are located a few kilometers from Brissac‑Quincé, in the heart of the « Coteaux de l’Aubance » and just south/southeast of the city of Angers itself. The soils are of clay and limestone. Their Crémant de Loire is produced entirely from Pinot Noir fruit. Discreet on the nose (Henry noted that, although the cuvée is called platinum, its golden color and delicate golden apple fruit quality were upfront and on full display) with further notions of les fleurs blanches and a sense of minerality, too; vigourous froth really engages and refreshes the palate right from the get‑go; ultra‑flavorful, then, mouthwatering and persistent of flavor on the finish. This is, to get right to the point, bottled refreshment in sparkling wine.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
View more of our selection of Champagne and Sparkling wines on the Champagne and Sparkling Wine pages of our website.
2021 Raventós i Blanc Conca del Riu Anoia Blanc de Blancs
Raventós i Blanc are part of a movement in Spain to further quality in the category of sparkling wines. And, as have a number of other fine producers there, they have chosen not to use the DOC 'Cava' for their fine sparkling wines. Their excellent Blanc de Blancs is produce of a typical mix of Xarel·lo, Macabeu and Parellada fruit planted to the clay and limestone soils of the Conca del Riu Anoia in the Penedès in northeastern Spain. Ultra-fresh aromas that suggest stone and orchard fruits and the wonderful work of the yeast genus Saccharomyces that gives a kind of toasty quality on the nose; fresh on the palate, too, with a wealth of fine bubbles, a building power and a kind of stony underpinning melded with a freshness of flavor. While discussion of the source(s) of the best sparkling wine in the world can be spirited and devolve into a mere accounting of so many opinions, it is safe to say that if a wine of this quality were produced in Champagne, it would cost at least twice as much.
$19.99 the bottle $203.88 the case
Franciacorta Berlucchi '61 Extra Brut
Franciacorta is Italy's liltingly delicious answer to Champagne itself. These fine northern Italian sparkling wines were not called Franciacorta until 1957 when Guido Berlucchi released a white wine named Pinot di Franciacorta. The appellation achieved DOC status in 1967 and the rest as they say è storia. Produce of 85% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Noir, from top vineyards in the 19 municipal areas of Franciacorta. Vivid platinum/yellow in color with emerald reflections and aromas that suggest a gently toasted Ciabatta and a just sub-alpine minerality, delicate on entry then building in volume and presence to downright potent on the palate, compellingly dry with a pleasing flesh of green apple-like tartness that oh so refreshes the palate.
$29.99 the bottle $152.94 the case
Franciacorta Ca'del Bosco Brut Cuvée Prestige
Produce of 75% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Nero and 10% Pinot Bianco from 134 vineyards in the Franciacorta area of Lombardia in northern Italy. In our humble opinion, the bubblies of Franciacorta are among the few sparkling wines on the planet to give Champagne a real run for its money. Bright, lustrous, straw golden in color with the finest of tiny bubbles, delicate aromas that subtly suggest brioche dough and lemon curd on lightly toasted baguette; fine light creamy textured, round and supple on the tongue with a delicate and refined sparkle and subtle citrus and toast flavors that last long.
$40.00 the bottle $204.00 the case of 6
Franciacorta Contadi Castaldi Brut Rosé
Franciacorta is located in the province of Brescia within the region of Lombardia in northern Italy. Its special location south of the Alpine foothills and in the presence of large lakes make for a mild climate and, together with its glacially formed soils and rolling hills, make it an area ideal for winegrowing, particularly for sparkling wines. In our humble estimation, Franciacorta is Italy's most elegant answer to Champagne — around here, Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta has come to resonate as among the best answers to high‑quality bubbles without the attendant high price tag. Produce of 65% Chardonnay and 35% Pinot Nero, Contadi Castaldi Brut Rosé is a pale coppery‑pink in color, pre‑alpine fresh and cool on the nose with suggestion of fresh Alpine herb, tart red berry and spice, foccacia biga and hazelnut (or is it bitter almond?); firm and frothy (Andrea found it racy) on the tongue, ultra‑light and airy with refreshing taut berry flavors that seem almost to melt, slow, cool and mouthwateringly into the tongue. We simply adore this sparkling wine. Come grab a bottle or two or six and find out why!
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
Vermentino Maremma Toscana Brut San Rabano Vignaioli del Morellino di Scansano
Produce of 85% Vermentino and 15%% Chardonnay fruit grown in the sand/silt soils of Maremma at 150% metres above sea level above the Tuscan coast; shimmering pristine platinum/light yellow in color with fine, persistent bubbles; the nearby salt (Tyrrhenian) sea is evident from the first whiff along with suggestion of ginestra and, with some air, something fresh, green and herbal like fennel fronds; completely dry and bracingly mineral on the tongue, with impressive breadth and depth of almost saline/mineral influenced flavor. With a cold glass of this in hand, one might more easily imagine oneself at a restaurant on the Tuscan coast with a plate of fresh‑caught shellfish in front.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
Adriano Adami Prosecco Treviso Garbèl Brut
Garbèl, which in ancient local dialect means a dry, crisp, pleasantly tart wine, is produced from the hilly vineyards in the Colli Trevigiani area, where the cool nights and hot days are ideal for expressing the typical fruit notes of the Prosecco (aka, Glera) grape. A wonderfully versatile sparkler, Garbèl’s 13 grams of residual sugar place it between the Brut and Extra Dry styles: lucid, platinum in color; vibrant and fresh aromas pull one in with suggestion of orchard fruits like yellow plum and pear (it is, of course, the Prosecco grape); vivid, frothy, crisp and mouthwatering on the tongue with just a hint of minerality; leaves the palate fully refreshed and ready. Unpretentious, unaffected, engaging and refreshing, Adami Garbèl is our go‑to Prosecco.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2023 Honig Vineyard & Winery Sauvignon Blanc Napa County/Lake County
Produce of 98% Sauvignon% Blanc, 1%% Semillon and 1% Muscat fruit from Napa County and Lake County harvested during cooler nighttime and early morning temperatures, preserving the inherently fresh aromas and flavors. Honeysuckle and stone fruit aromas and flavors flow into a perfectly round mid-palate, followed by bright citrus reminiscent of lime and ruby red grapefruit. A layered and delicious Sauvignon Blanc in the classic Honig style, easily enjoyed on its own or with lighter seasonal fare.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2024 Craggy Range Winery Sauvignon Blanc Te Muna Martinborough
Grown on the lower terrace at Te Muna Road, Martinborough (the southern part of the northern island of) New Zealand; pale platinum/yellow in color, with aromas suggestive of intense electric peach and kiwi fruit and a hint of petrichor along with notions of sweet green garden herbs or snap peas (Craggy Range themselves note white peach, lemon and passion fruit); subtly abuzz on the tongue with a pithy fruit, crisp acidity, stony minerality, subtle salinity and a dusty minerality ostensibly provided by the old river stones themselves; all in all, a not at all shy Kiwi refresher, with just that dash of electricity charging the wine‑drinking experience.
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2023 Sancerre Henri Bourgeois
Produce of 100% Sauvignon Blanc planted to the argilo-calcaire (clay/limestone) and silex (flint-rich) soils of the hills and ridges between the villages of Chavignol and Sancerre. Domaine Henri Bourgeois have been producing wine here for 10 generations. And this, their opening salvo among their myriad offerings is, in our humble estimation, a shining example of textbook Sancerre: vivid yellow/gold in color with emerald green reflections; subtle Sauvignon Blanc aromas suggestive of citrus and cool ripe melon and the ever Kimmeridgian clay/limestone underpinnings (one can almost smell the refreshment to come); poised on the palate, holding shape while delivering a wholly welcome wallop of vibrant fresh, crisp, mouthwateringly minérale Sancerrois Sauvignon Blanc flavor.
$37.50 the bottle $382.56 the case
2023 Touraine Chenonceaux Joseph Mellot
Touraine is located some 2 hours to the west of Sancerre by automobile, near the city of Tours. But the grape of choice here is also the Sauvignon Blanc, by comparison with Chenin Blanc for Vouvray closer by. Shimmering yellow/gold in color, with discreet aromas suggestive of orchard fruits, kaffir lime zest and the gentlest whiff of the vine leaf itself along with wine‑moistened limestone; the palate demonstrates an almost crystalline cohesiveness, a vibrancy and nerve and a mineral‑charged persistence, with delicate flavors that echo true to the aromatic slate; Henry noted the ever‑elusive character of yumminess. Sancerre lovers take note, this one pushes all the same buttons that finer quality Sancerre might also. Perhaps even moreso.
$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2024 Corbières Rosé Gris de Gris Domaine de Fontsainte
The first vineyards at Domaine de Fontsainte, in the Corbières appellation, were planted by the Romans. Artifacts found in these vineyards such as an old coin dating from the time of Marcus Agrippa in 25 A.D. are a testament to its antiquity. The original domaine was built around a thermal spring, which was later named for the local, twelfth‑century patron saint, Saint Siméon; hence Fontsainte — the saint's fount. Yves Laboucarié’s family has been making wine here since the seventeenth century. The Fontsainte vineyards surround the hamlet of Boutenac in the area known as «The Golden Crescent». This swath of land is one of the sunniest in the appellation of Corbières, enjoying south/southeast exposures, and protection from the cold, northeast winds by a large 500-hectare forest. The cool sea breezes from the Mediterranean help this sun‑soaked terroir achieve balance as well. Their Gris de Gris rosé has been an important part of our rosé offerings here for years now. Produce of the hand-harvested fruit of 90% Grenache Gris, 5% Carignan and 5% Mourvèdre vines planted to silica, clay and gravelly limestone soils with large galets (rounded stones). A portion of the juice destined for red wine production is drawn off while still only pink in color (this is known as the saignée method of rosé production). After a 24-hour débourbage or settling of the must, alcoholic fermentation takes place at cool temperatures for 35 days. Malolactic fermentation is blocked and the wine is allowed to rest for one month before bottling to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity: pale sunset orange copper pink in color with fresh powdery citrus and red berry aromas; very primary intense vivid berry flavors burst wildly on the tongue leaving the palate both stimulated and refreshed.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
2024 Cassis Rosé Domaine du Bagnol
No estate expresses the salt‑kissed limestone‑driven terroir of the idyllic Provençal seaside village of Cassis like Domaine du Bagnol, and the current generation, Sébastien Genovesi, crafts a rosé of scintillating energy, chiseled calcareous musculature, and gleaming red fruits. Comprising 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, and 20% Mourvèdre, Bagnol’s Cassis Rosé is pressed directly and rapidly (in under two hours) to extract as little color as possible, and the bottled wine (certified organic) contains only 20 milligrams per liter of total sulfur — a factor which contributes to its gorgeous purity of texture and intense evocation of limestone soil. ‑
https://rosenthalwinemerchant.com/$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2023 Touraine Sauvignon Domaine des Chezelles
Produce of 100% Sauvignon Blanc fruit from the chalky clay soils of the Touraine in the central Loire Valley nears the city of Tours itself; shimmering green/gold in color with pretty, inviting, floral Sauvignon Blanc aromas suggestive of ripe melon and a fresh cooler season garden herb like chervil (Chezelles themselves note pamplemousse and lime); vivid on the tongue but with a ripe vintage suppleness and rondeur and tantalizing interplay of minerality and fruit like fleur de sel on cool melon (Henry noted just the right amount of tension); all said and done, this is simply delicious Sauvignon Blanc from among its happiest of places, showing its all in the here and now and noticeably easy on the wallet, too.
$11.99 the bottle $122.28 the case
View more of our selection of Loire Valley wines on the Loire Valley page of our website.
2023 Pouilly-Fumé Petit F… Michel Redde et Fils
Well, the nickname for the wine, that is Petit F… , leaves a bit to the imagination. We have a bit of a joke with this around here. Probably just Fumé, though. And, to be sure, in terms of its value, this wine is smokin'. Pouilly‑Fumé is a bit under 20 minutes by car (not at all far, some 19 kilomètres or so) down the road from Sancerre. Short distance aside, there are, as well, more similarities between the wines from these two appellations than there are differences. Oh, for sure, there's a bit more clay in the soils at Pouilly‑Fumé, but, as in Sancerre, there is also flint. Pouilly‑Fumé, like Sancerre (Blanc) is made purely from Sauvignon Blanc grapes, a type of vine whose clusters are formed of small ovoid grapes, pressed against each other and resembling small bird eggs. At maturity, these grapes are coated with a grey bloom, the color of smoke — which explains why winegrowers here use the term "white smoke" or Blanc Fumé to describe the aroma/flavor of the wines. We, being fully convinced of the concept of terroir, note the flint. Rub two of these stones together et voilà, l'arôme de fumé blanche, a.k.a. gunsmoke. And, the wines nowadays, in these comparatively enlightened vinous times, demonstrate fully more desirable aromas: pristine platinum/yellow in color with ultra‑fresh aromas suggestive of ripe green/gold grapes ready for harvest in the cool of the morning, wine‑moistened limestone and gently toasted baguette with sweet butter and citrus preserves; ample on entry, rounded at the edges with gentle citrus pith lending structure on the tongue; one quite notices the ripe and rounded quality on the palate; this is wholly refreshing and satisfying Sauvignon Blanc from just right down the street from its lately more popular neighbor. But one would surely be hard‑pressed to find a decent Sancerre at anywhere near this price.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
- with good information paraphrased from
wikipedia
2023 Sancerre Les Longues Fins Domaine André Neveu
Domaine André Neveu was founded in the mid-1960s and is located in the town of Chavignol, also famous for its superb goat cheese
Crottin de Chavignol. Valérie (3rd generation and the daughter of André Neveu) and her husband Thomas now run the domaine that extends to about 13 hectares (about 32 acres) of vines in the AOC of Sancerre. The name of the wine
«Les Longues Fins» is a nod to the long slender plot of vines (all in Chavignol) planted to soils exclusively of limestone and from which the Sauvignon Blanc fruit for this wine is sourced. Brilliant platinum yellow in color with a panoply of ultra‑fine aromas suggestive of honeysuckle,
peche de vigne, juicy ripe ruby red grapefruit, orange zest, crisp cool green melon, fresh picked chervil and summer rain‑moistened limestone; ultra‑fine on the palate as well, at once both slender of frame, yet ample, crisp and yet supple, too, and all the while fresh as spring itself with a nice streak of nervy fruity acidity keeping the taste buds all atwitter, indeed, long on the finish.
Delicieux!$32.50 the bottle $331.56 the case
2018 Trimbach Riesling Cuvée Frédéric Émile
From the Osterberg (60%) and a particular Geisberg plot (40%), the 2018 Riesling Frédéric Emile offers a very concentrated, intense and saline nose due to deeper, more clayish soils. Full-bodied, rich and intense yet elegant and refined on the palate, this is a concentrated, persistently saline and powerful Riesling with a long, impressive and powerful finish. The FE has more salt and tension than the 2018 Geisberg and is definitely the more complex wine. Tasted at the domaine in April 2024 and again on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Clos Ste Hune at the beginning of November when the wine was beautifully fragrant, refined and elegant, even pure and precise on the remarkably coolish nose, given that dry and very warm vintage. This is an enormously complex Riesling with a dense and fleshy texture of fully ripe fruits and a firm tannin structure. Promising! 14.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Drink 2029‑2068. Rated
97. ‑ Stephan Reinhardt,
The Wine Advocate February, 2025
$107.50 the bottle $548.28 the case of 6
2022 Trimbach Riesling Alsace
Trimbach Riesling is a standard bearer among fine dry Riesling wines produced on this planet. Yes, dry Riesling! Bone dry! Totally and unapologetically so. This is the way the Trimbach family prefer it. And they've been producing Alsace wines for almost four centuries now, long enough to make up their minds over the matter. And Trimbach Riesling is already a proven winner of a white wine right here in beautiful downtown Austin, Texas. Pure aristocratic and floral Riesling aromas suggestive of lemon peel (like the color of the label), linden flower, apricot, peach and a kind of pulverized stone; firm and dry, engaging the palate with a focused and penetrating flavor that then spreads out resplendent and refreshing across the tongue, leaving the entire mouth just watering away and waiting for more. C'mon downtown, grab a bottle or two of this stuff and get right with Riesling!
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
View more of our selection of Alsace wines on the Alsace page of our website.
2022 Trimbach Pinot Noir Réserve
The 2022 Pinot Noir Réserve is 100% destemmed. The color is surprisingly dark, with a vivid nose of ripe black cherry. The palate is equally full‑fruited and comes with a dense web of tannins, still slightly drying but sitting well with the generosity of fruit. Beautiful tension is captured with freshness, which, along with the tannins, will stand this in good stead. Wait for it. This shows the same balance as always but in a riper register. (Bone‑dry). Drink 2026‑2036. Rated
90. ‑ Anne Krebiehl, MW,
vinous.com May, 2024
$29.99 the bottle $305.88 the case
2022 Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett Weingut Dr. Loosen
The breathtakingly steep, red-soiled vineyard of Ürziger Würzgarten (Würzgarten translates to spice garden) produces wines of a completely unique nature in the Mosel River valley. The wines show the typically juicy and exotic fruit of the this Grosse Lage (Grand Cru) vineyard, with a rich mouth feel, a spicy acid tingle and lingering finish. Kabinett is the lightest, most delicate style of Riesling in Germany, made from grapes harvested when just ripe. Pristine, platinum/yellow with glints of green in color; pure cristalline Mosel Riesling aromas suggestive of peach and apricot and wine‑moistened slate; crisp and vibrant on the tongue with tart green apple‑like acidity balancing the gentlest sense of pure grapey sweetness; deliciously mouthwatering and fresh to the finish.
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2023 Grüner Veltliner Niederösterreich Weingut Berger
Light yellow/gold with glints of green in color; fresh, spring-infused aromas hint at things like orchard fruits, chervil and fresh snow pea shoots; lovely equilibrium, easy and refreshingly light on its feet, but somehow also just ample in body and oh so satisfying. Talk about yer perfect porch-pounder. And — this is a full 1-litre bottle. Delicious and longer-lasting, too.
$14.99 the 1-litre bottle $152.88 the case
2021 Bandol Rouge Lulu & Lucien Domaine Tempier
Renamed in the 2020 vintage en hommage à Lulu & Lucien (Peyraud), this most important cuvée of Domaine Tempier blends the discrete strength of Bandol with the elegance and finesse which characterize the production of the domaine. This complexity is a result of different terroirs of the estate and the variety of its clay/limestone soils located around the estate but also in La Cadière, Sainte‑Anne d'Évenos, and Ollioules: sandy marls, limestone greseux from santonien, rudist limestone and recent barely deep horizons of colluvions with various sun and wind exposures. Produce of about ¾ Mourvèdre with Grenache, Cinsault and a smaller proportion of Carignan and Syrah from vines an average age of 35 to 40 years. Clusters are hand‑selected in the vineyard and in the cellar, destemmed, crushed and put into concrete vats for 3 to 4 weeks to ferment on indigenous yeasts. The wine is then aged in large oak casks for a minimum of 18 months before bottling.
Deep ruby in color with wild, almost feral aromas upon opening, gamy, then with air a dark bramble and berry emerge, along with earth and stone (by all means do give this one a full throttle decanting) the wine seems to gain in body and heft with air; dark, brooding, potent and stony on the tongue, with visceral pulverized stone‑like tannins and eventually a heartiness and warming quality on the finish.
$67.50 the bottle $688.56 the case
View more of our selection of Provençal wines on the Provence page of our website.
2022 Corbières Rouge Domaine de Fontsainte
It is wonderful to be able to rely on a bottle of red wine, year in and year out, as we do with Bruno Laboucarié’s blend of old-vine Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah from Corbières. To see the bottle there on your counter or resting in your wine rack, and know with confidence that it is ready to offer up its pure, sun-kissed mélange of dark red fruit, baking spices, and earthy minerality is a small, luxurious comfort amid the hurly-burly of daily life. This kind of consistency over just a few vintages is notable, but we’ve been importing Domaine de Fontsainte’s wines since 1978! Few values can match that track record. ‑ Dustin Soiseth,
https://www.kermitlynch.com/$16.25 the bottle $165.72 the case
View more of our selection of Languedoc wines on the Languedoc-Roussillon page of our website.
2020 Minervois La Livinière La Touge Château Maris
Produce of 60% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 5% Carignan fruit from
Demeter certified biodynamically farmed vines, fermented on its native yeasts, bottled unfined and unfiltered into recycled glass bottles; deep just tranlucent plum skin/ruby in color with south of France Syrah dominant aromas suggestive of ripe berries and bramble, a hint of cracked black peppercorn, earth and pulverized stone with notions of garrigue almost entirely subsumed by the ripeness of the vintage (Henry noted its wild and primary fruit qualities); smooth and winey onto the tongue, savory, then ample if not downright full in body with refreshing fruity acidity and ripe rounded tannins lending structure and carrying fine fresh Syrah flavor long on the finish. And, it bears repeating that Château Maris is Demeter Certified Biodynamic® and, as well, a Certified B Corporation®.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2024 Picpoul de Pinet Saint-Peyre Les Costières de Pomerols
Produce of 100% Piquepoul Blanc — a very popular, traditional local variety — this wine is sourced from vineyards planted on sun-drenched «costières» (broad hillside terraces) in the Mediterranean garrigue near the Etang de Thau, a salt lagoon also home to oyster farming and situated between the port of Sète and Marseillan in the south of France. The garrigue is the name given to open scrubland made up of low-growing, dwarf bushy shrubs including holm oak, juniper, broom and wild herbs such as rosemary, thyme and sage which are held to inform the aromatics and flavors of the wines produced here. Vivid platinum/yellow in color with ultra-fresh aromas suggestive of a whole panoply of orchard fruits (Andrea particularly noted pear and apple) and fresh stone fruits like peach and apricot, citrus and the subtle scent of moist limestone and salt sea salinity; at once, supple in texture (Lucinda noted a certain 'creaminess'), fresh and vibrant on the tongue with crisp acidity and tangy salinity stirring the salivary glands and so suggesting another pull. And so it goes …
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2020 Dão Tinto Lote Quinta das Marias
Produce of a typical Dão blend (Lote means blend or batch in Portugues) of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Jaen (Mencía) and Alfrocheiro; rich sanguine ruby red in color with an old world allure and vinosidade what with aromas at once both resinous and floral and suggestion of spiced plum and plump berries hanging above an arid vineyard floor at the peak of season; sophisticated and smooth, fully dry, but still country onto the tongue, demonstrating a bit more structure than the previous vintage, but still with both complexity and generosity of flavor and an embracing warmth on the finish.
$17.50 the bottle $178.56 the case
View more of our selection of Portuguese wines on the Portugal page of our website.
2024 Nortico Alavarinho Vinho Regional Minho
Produce of 100% Alvarinho (aka Albariño in España) fruit from the "garden vineyards" planted to granitic soils on the southern banks of the river Minho in far northern Portugal (across from Galicia in northwestern Spain); rather immediate aromas suggestive of wine‑moistened stone, flowers and orchard fruits like peach and apple; crisp, mineral tang on the tongue and then a gentler
redondeza and salt‑sea salinity (the Atlantic is a beautiful thing indeed from this perspective), finishing innervating and fresh and just begging another pull. This one will compliment both the freshest catch or the finest tin of Iberian conservas and is so highly recommended to beat the typical Texas heat.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2019 Priorat Clos Figueras
The 2019 Clos Figueres represents a warm and dry vintage with slightly higher ripeness and alcohol at 15.5%. It's a powerful and concentrated red with plenty of tannins and a certain Priorat rusticity, a dusty texture and a mineral sensation of ground slate and graphite. This is a blend of old‑vine Garnacha and Cariñena with some Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Monastrell. It matured in new and second use 500‑liter barrels for 14 to 16 months. 4,685 bottles were filled in February 2021. Drink 2023‑2032. Rated
94. ‑ Luis Gutiérrez,
robertparker.com September, 2022. Regularly $100.00 the bottle, on sale now at 25% off:
$75.00 the bottle $382.50 the case of 6
2021 Douro Prazo de Roriz Quinta de Roriz Prats & Symington
The application of Bordeaux winemaking methods to grapes traditionally destined for the production of vintage Port is the essence of this exciting project between the Prats family (formerly owners of Château Cos d'Estournel in Bordeaux) and the eminent Symington family of Porto and the Douro Valley (and now other parts) of Portugal. Prazo de Roriz is produce of a neo‑classical mingling of 30% Touriga Nacional, 20% Tinta Roriz, 15% Tinta Barroca, 15% Touriga Franca and 20% Preto Misto (aka 'mixed black') varietals typical of the Douro River Valley hand‑harvested from the vineyards of Quinta de Roriz and Quinta da Perdiz. Quinta de Roriz is situated in a natural amphitheatre facing north on the banks of the Douro. Its mineral‑rich, schistous soils give highly aromatic wine of red‑fruited, mineral‑driven character. Quinta da Perdiz lies on a steep gradient on the other side of the same mountain in the relatively closed‑in Rio Torto Valley and produces ripe, soft, velvety wines from this warmer climate. The fruit is hand‑harvested. The wine spends 6 months in 400 litre French oak barrels prior to bottling and eventual release. Altogether, Prazo de Roriz is an exceptional Douro Valley red wine: lovely saturated ruby red with purple reflections, decidedly red‑fruited with aromas suggestive of a mixture of taut wild berries, cherry, cacao, baking spices, grape pomace, a hint of esteva (rock‑rose) and the schistous soils themselves; pure and seamless onto the tongue, taut red berry fruit, a pleasing and wholly refreshing tartness and reminiscence of freshly harvested berries; and, even more and better with air. This is year‑in year‑out our winebuyer's favorite everyday red wine.
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
2020 Douro Tinto Vale do Bomfim Dow
From Douro Valley vineyards of the Symington family in northern Portugal, including the Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira, which have traditionally supplied the famed Porto House of Dow. Vale do Bomfim represents a new style of table wine from the Upper Douro Valley, where the region's wealth of grape varieties, mature vineyards and modern winemaking have been successfully combined. Produce of 40%
Touriga Nacional, 30% Tinta Roriz, 20% Touriga Franca and 10% Tinta Barroca, hand‑selected and vinified at the Quinta do Sol, among the most modern winemaking facilities in Portugal; deep dark ruby in color with plump ripe red and dark berry aromas (one can almost sense the ripening clusters of grapes hanging in the vineyard just prior to harvest) along with suggestion of the lifted floral/resinous scent of the rock rose (known as
Esteva in the Douro) and underpinned by the schistous vineyard floor itself; supple on entry, just this side of velvety in texture, medium to just medium‑full in body with a certain vibrancy and balancing edge of fruity acidity with just the gentlest tannins lending structure; then, long on flavor, fresh and mouthwatering to the finish. Among our best-selling popularly-priced red wines for years now and getting even better as the vintages roll by.
$11.99 the bottle $122.28 the case
2019 Douro Tinto Duas Quintas Ramos-Pinto
Produce of 51% Touriga Nacional, 26% Touriga Franca and 23% other traditional Douro varieties harvested from the Quinta de Ervamoira and Quinta dos Bons Ares vineyards. The grapes are harvested by hand into 150 kg boxes, then fermented in a combination of granite lagares, large oak, concrete and stainless steel vats. After malolactic fermentation, 20% of the wine is aged in French oak barrels, 30% in large oak and the remainder in stainless steel for about 12 months. Saturated ruby/purple in color with suggestion of fleshy ripe wild berry and plum along with notions of baking spices and dusty summer sun-baked schistous soils; ample, just rich in texture on the palate, demonstrating a certain Iberian balance with nicely resolved tannins holding everything in shape good and long on the flavorful, slow-melting and mouthwatering finish. And, simply splendid value at its oh so modest price.
$13.75 the bottle $140.28 the case
2011 Douro Barca Velha Casa Ferreirinha
Terrific structure, depth of colour and flavour articulate an outstanding year. Great warp and weft of ripe fruit (blackberry, strawberry, plum, dried fig and jam) and signature savoury roast chestnut, smoky clove and leather notes, with hints of bergamot and white flowers. Unerring acidity and impeccably judged iron-filing tannins underpin and fan the flavours. Exceptionally long, retro-nasal finish. Prodigious. Drink 2021‑2045. Rated
98. ‑ Sarah Ahmed,
decanter.com March, 2021
$625.00 the bottle $1,593.75 the case of 3
2019 Alentejo Portalegre Quinta da Fonte Souto
An elegant red, medium‑bodied and focused, with fine, trim tannins structuring the pure range of damson plum reduction and black raspberry coulis, with iron, violet and bay leaf accents. Syrah, Alicante Bouschet and Alfrocheiro Preto. Drink now through 2029. 2,500 cases made, 250 cases imported. Rated 91. ‑ Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator, November, 2023
$22.50 the bottle $114.78 the case of 6
2020 Calatayud Viñedos Viejos de Monte Altas Parcelas Garnacha Cuevas de Arom
The red 2020 Arom is completely different from the wines I tasted before, as it's now pure Garnacha from Calatayud, from vineyards in the villages of Acered, Alarba and Atea on slate, quartzite and limestone glacis soils. It fermented with 50% full clusters and matured exclusively in concrete. 2020 was a very rainy year in Calatayud, a year of cooler temperatures, and the wines are fluid and fresh. This is very primary and fruit driven, tasty and juicy, with fine tannins and very easy to drink. 10,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in September 2021. Drink 2022‑2025. Rated
91. ‑ Luis Gutiérrez,
robertparker.com November, 2021
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
2016 Montsant Espectacle Spectacle Vins
A project of Christopher & Charlotte Cannan, René & Isabelle Barbier and Fernando & Marta Zamora, from a single very steep vineyard of 2 hectares (5 acres) planted to 100 plus year old Garnacha vines in the clay-limestone soils of the commune of La Figuera on the northern edge of Montsant looking onto the famous
Serra de Montsant itself as well as having spectacular views of the Ebro valley and even the distant Pyrenees 200 kilometres away (hence the name
Espectacle). Lovely translucent medium-ruby in color with an alluring, subtly perfumed red-fruited quality
à la Chambolle-Musigny or Domaine Charvin (Lindsay noted a savory quality and strawberry fruit leather, she said it reminded her of being back on the farm, not the barnyard, but the carrot field; Henry noted bilberry, dried violet and anise; our winebuyer noted rhubarb); supple on entry, almost Burgundian cool, sophisticated, smooth and silken in texture, but then generating a more southerly warmth with sapid, mostly red berry flavors both elegant and intense with fine pulverized stony jittery tannins stretching the whole thing out long, long on the fine and gently mouthwatering finish. All in all, we are wholly impressed. This is ultra-fine wine on the world stage.
$112.50 the bottle $1,147.56 the case
2023 País Viejo by Bouchon
País Viejo ('Old País') is a wine with history. According to Jancis Robinson, País is almost certainly the first vitis vinifera to be introduced to the new world, having been brought to the Americas in the 1500s and 1600s ostensibly from Castilla‑La Mancha in Spain. País Viejo by Bouchon is made with 100% País (also known as Mission or Misión) grapes from 100‑plus year‑old bush vines planted to soils of granitic, sandy loam in the coastal region of Maule, Chile, sustainably/dry‑farmed and hand‑harvested, then fermented with native yeasts in concrete tanks to preserve the wine’s authentic expression of terroir: translucent medium cherry skin ruby red to fuchsia in color at the edges with nice fermentive earth and berry aromas/a kind of working person's everyday red quality on the nose (Bouchon themselves note wildflowers, rosehips, cherries and wild strawberries); easy onto the palate with a vibrancy and dusty soil‑inflected sun‑singed berry fruit, chalky dusty tannins and mouthwatering berryish acidity lending freshness to the finish. This is a light red that could take a bit of a chill and work even better as a foil to our typically warm early evening weather 'round here. In its own way, it might call to mind a southern Côtes‑du‑Rhône or Spanish Garnacha but, suffice to say, there is a decidedly old‑world quality to this new‑world transplant and an easygoing surefootedness that are hard to resist. And, yeah, we just love rooting for the underdog. Drink more País!
$14.99 the bottle $152.88 the case
Schott Zwiesel Forté
After long years of intensive research and development, in collaboration with the University of Erlangen, Schott Zwiesel has succeeded in creating a new type of crystal glass: Tritan®. The use of unique ingredients, including Titanium instead of lead, combined with an advanced manufacturing process, has created an incredibly pure, hard and clear crystal glass — crystal glass that is highly resilient to accidental breakage and chipping in the dishwasher. Tritan® is a unique, patented crystal glass that sets a new high standard. And the Schott Zwiesel Forté series is our choice for classic elegance and durability in everyday stemware at an even better than everyday price.
$12.00 the stem, boxed sets of 6 at 15% off
Schott Zwiesel Pure
The Pure line of stemware by Schott Zwiesel brings the pursuit of pleasure in wine to the point. The bowls of the various shapes both allow a fine wine to breathe and to focus the bouquet for those discerning of aroma, taste, texture ... And they clearly do it all with a certain style. Tritan®, too!
$15.00 the stem, boxed sets of 6 at 15% off
Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Porto
In the Graham's cellars the depiction of bunches of grapes on the cask ends has been used to signify a wine of Vintage Porto quality. Amongst these, six bunches denote the darkest and most full‑bodied of such wines. One of Graham's original Porto blends, Six Grapes is a true expression of the Graham's house style with great richness and complexity — Graham's themselves refer to it as 'everyday Porto for the lover of full-on Vintage Porto.' Midnight ruby red in color with very primary aromas of ripe plum, prune, cherry, grape pomace, dried fig, tea leaf, bergamot, anise, cracked pepper, whoo, we could go on; rich, voluptuous even, on the tongue, then shows its warming grip with structure from velvety tannins; invigorating, fortifying, flavorful to the finish.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
View more of our selection of Porto wines on the Portugal page of our website.
2017 Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Porto
Produce of Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Sousão, Tinta Barroca and Tinta Roriz fruit from Dow's Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira vineyards. Dense, midnight ruby in color alluring spiced plum and dark berry fruit served up on a backdrop of firm schistous soils and a touch of petrichor with a freshening hint of mint and alcaçuz; cool on entry, full in body with power and presence on the tongue and firm chewy tannins (Dow themselves refer to them as "peppery") lending structure and balancing the characteristic minimal sweetness of the house of Dow, finishing with notions of semi-dried wild berries and plums in brandy; wholly satisfying, fully fortifying Porto.
$24.99 the bottle $254.88 the case
2016 Graham's Vintage Porto
The 2016 Graham’s Vintage Port is inky black in colour. The bouquet is voluminous and intense, the aromas almost shrouding your head! Blackberry, black olive, clove and a touch of smoke, just a hint of pencil box in the background. The palate is brilliant, quite brilliant. Supple tannin, a satin‑like texture, perfect balance and unerring purity, this is a fabulous Graham’s that effortlessly fans out and caresses the senses on the finish. This Graham’s has huge potential and is going to give a lot of pleasure for many years. Drink 2026‑2080. Rated
96. Neal Martin,
vinous.comMay, 2018
$112.50 the bottle $573.78 the case of 6
2016 Dow's Vintage Porto
The 2016 Dow’s Vintage Port is based around the Vinha dos Ecos vineyard behind Bomfim, populated predominantly by mature Touriga Franca vines that were cropped at just 0.68kg per vine. It has a quite astonishing bouquet with layer upon layer of intense black cherry and cassis fruit, touches of clove, leather and a hint of over-ripe Satsuma. This is a mercurial bouquet that keeps changing in the glass, revealing smoky/burning ember scents with time. The palate is quite magnificent – perfectly balanced with a killer thread of acidity slicing through such pure intense black fruit that there is no heaviness at all. There is a sense of thrust on the finish as it fans out with almost careless abandon, a Vintage Port so self-assured that you can only sit back in amazement. Simply one of the best Dow’s ever made. Drink 2030‑2086. Rated
98. ‑ Neal Martin,
vinous.com June, 2018.
$112.50 the bottle
Graham's Tawny Porto Aged 20 Years
While vintage Porto is bottled some 18 months following the vintage, Tawny Porto is aged almost entirely in cask, during this process throwing off its dark purple color in favor of a more "tawny" hue, leaving its sediments in cask rather than in the bottle, it's once grapey, plummy fruit transformed into something far more complex and, frankly, sublime — a veritable cornucopia of aromatic richness — bitter almond, caramel, walnut, citrus peel, raisin, prune, dried berry and cherry and perhaps a hint of brandy by campfire; oh so silken-textured, at once voluptuous and fiery, challenging and satisfying, with deliciously complex flavors that somehow so discreetly reprise those first highly suggestive aromas. Absolutely superb!
$62.50 the bottle
Taylor Fladgate 10 Year Old Tawny Porto
This is a lovely, if seemingly youthful, 10 year tawny, translucent garnet at the core in color to just sunset brickish orange-red at the edges with complex aromas suggestive of crystallized red and blue fruits, dried rose petals, rhubarb, walnut, almond, all underpinned with a most welcome hint of the spirit that captured the fermentation in the first place; the texture is a very satisfying rich and silky with long, long flavors that conjure caramel, nuts and crisp dried red fruits with vivid nerve of ultra-fine tannins and the spirit itself serving as foundation. Mmmm. A much to be savored tender sweet kiss of a bevy goodnight.
$32.50 the bottle
Lustau East India Solera Sherry
In centuries gone by, casks of sherry were lashed to ships sailing for the Indies as ballast and were found to develop an extraordinary smoothness and complexity. Lustau has revived this style of sherry in the East India Solera wine, an inspired mingling of about 85% aged dry (20 years old) Oloroso with about 15% aged (10 years old) sweet Pedro Ximenez blended then aged an additional 5 years in the warmest part of the bodega, la sacristia. Raisined fruit, candied citrus peel, macerated cherries, caramel and roasted almonds are common descriptors that we might put forward, but somehow there is something left to be described — an ineffable — as if a benevolent form of alchemy were having its way with an already wonderful raw material. Richly textured and flavorful, just sweet, assuages the tongue whilst giving all its wonderful complexity of flavor.
$22.50 the bottle $229.56 the case
View more of our selection of Sherry wines on the España page of our website.
Contratto Aperitif Liqueur
You might be familiar with that other quite popular aperitivo which also has a bit of an orange hue and label. The Contratto take on apéritif is rather a favorite of ours here with its emphasis on complexity of flavor and less overt sweetness. Alcohol, water, sugar and extracts from 28 natural botanicals: herbs, spices, roots and seeds (aloe, angelica, wormwood, safflower, cinchona, bitter orange, sweet orange, lemon, mandarin, hawthorn, cloves, cardamom, licorice, juniper, mint, rhubarb, sage, nettle and ginger to name quite a few, and more of which are kept secret), with carrot and beetroot extract for color. The liqueur is produced with a fine crushing of the botanicals with a hammer mill, then a cold extraction following the traditional Piemontese method to keep intact the characteristics of the botanicals. A hydroalcoholic solution irrigates the powders of the botanicals for about 35 days to extract the available aromatic substances. The extract is then mixed with the alcohol and sugar, refrigerated and filtered to remove all solid residues. Finally it is aged in steel tanks for about 40 days. While this fine apéritif could certainly be enjoyed neat or over ice, we suggest using it with sparkling water (or club soda), sparkling wine or both. Our winebuyer is known to quite enjoy a certain spritzer at the end of his day. We've given it a name:
The Burnt Orange. It could also be called the delicious thirst‑quenching and oh so pleasingly potable solvent for taking the edge off of the working day. And, unlike Longhorns football, it can be enjoyed in all four seasons of the year.
$24.99 the 1-litre bottle
The Burnt Orange
In a bowl-shaped (Burgundy) glass: 1 (quite) large ice cube or ice sphere, pour in 6.8 ounces (the entire contents of a 200 ml bottle) of Fever Tree Club Soda, then 4 or more ounces (depending on the sharpness of the edge of the day) Crémant de Bourgogne or other preferred dry sparkling wine, and 1½ to 2 ounces of Contratto Apéritif. Stir gently/briefly. Garnish, if you like, with a nice swath or large twist of fresh orange peel. Et voilà ! Consume with or without a sunset. Guaranteed to refresh all those who would be refreshed.
Louis Roque La Vieille Prune Réserve Brandy
Distillerie Louis Roque have been operating in Souillac in southwestern France from father to son since 1905. The pinnacle of their production — La Vieille Prune (literally "The Old Prune") — is a plum brandy produced from three varieties of fresh plums: Ente (a red plum used for Pruneau d’Agen), Mirabelle (a yellow plum most famous in the Lorraine) and Reine-Claude (a green plum grown all over France). The pits are mostly removed, the plums are crushed and the resultant juice is fermented into a plum wine. The wine is then distilled twice in a copper pot still à la Cognac. After the second distillation, the clear brandy reaches 70% alcohol by volume. The spirit is then placed in 400-liter oak casks; with time, it begins to gain color and lose its alcohol. Little by little, water is added to the spirit to further reduce its alcohol level to 42% by volume. After being aged for a minimum of four years, it is bottled with a cork, and the bottles are then waxed by hand. The finished brandy is light amber in color with deliciously complex aromas of the orchard fruit distilled and cinnamon-stick like spice from the oak aging; slippery smooth on entry, with a gentle and supple texture and then a warmth and presence and remembrance of those orchard fruits transformed along with suggestion of vanilla, orange peel and spices. Simply superb brandy!
$57.50 the bottle
View more of our selection of spirits on the Spirits page of our website.
Armagnac XO Domaine des Cassagnoles Famille Baumann
Produce of a distillate of wine of fruit from 60 hectares of vineyard cultivated sustainably and certified
Haute Valeur Environnementale since 2016. Lovely amber in color with alluring and nostril-titillating aromas of dried orange peel, caramel, holiday baking spices, seasoned wood, fine winegrowing earth and, eventually, the indomitable spirit of the grape; slippery smooth entry onto the palate, then building in intensity and warmth, finishing long, contemplative and flavorful. Splendid value in fine wine brandy, too!
$37.50 the bottle
Tesseron Cognac Lot № 90 X.O Ovation
Alfred Tesseron is the class-act owner of the now ever over-performing Château Pontet-Canet in the commune of Pauillac in the northern Médoc, Bordeaux as well as Cognac Tesseron over the Gironde river estuary and à travers le bois in Cognac. Tesseron are now bottling an increasing amount of their own production, having cultivated a certain demand for their more pure and classic style of brandy. Produce of a blend of eaux-de-vie from the finest terroirs in Cognac, namely Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne and Fins Bois and aged for about ten years, Lot № 90 X.O Ovation owes its freshness and purity to the vivacity of the eaux-de-vie, displaying an especially attractive combination of vigour and complexity. Alluring vivid gold in color with subtle and refined aromas suggestive of stick cinnamon, vanilla bean, a subtle sear on crème caramel, orange peel and (the imagination could literally run wild), at last, and overarchingly, the spirit of the grape; supple and fine on the palate, tactile with a sense of sweetness and harmony on the tongue and long remembrance of all that has come before on the finish; oh dear, this is good …
$67.50 the bottle
Delamain Grande Champagne Cognac Pale & Dry X.O.
Delamain Pale & Dry was introduced as Delamain’s standard-bearer in 1920, and today represents some 80% of the firm’s production. The label is a reproduction of a 17th century engraving of the town of Jarnac and its Château by Claude Chastillon. Named after its taste, to reflect its clean, dry purity of flavor, it is blended from a range of Cognacs averaging 25 years of age. True to its name, brilliant pale gold in color, this superb Cognac is distinguished by its remarkable delicacy and refinement; aromas suggest a wisp of vanilla from old wood, cinnamon, clove and notions of candied orange peel and raisin; carries itself elegantly, almost floats onto the tongue with a gentle richness of texture and rondeur and just a whole panoply of complex flavors that burst on the palate and then linger welcome, warm and engaging on the long flavorful finish.
$112.50 the bottle
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