New Week – New Arrivals; White Rhones; Vinopolis Half-Case World Tour; Time to Say Good Buy: Sale Ends Friday
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Highlight Pre-Arrival
Cru Barbaresco- $26-$28-$30.90
Arriving This Friday, May 5th
Ca’ del Baio Asili, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($39.95) $30.90 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 92 points “Aromas of cherry, dried apple and hints of cedar. Full body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Hints of walnut skin and wet earth. Solid and attractive. Drink or hold.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ca’ del Baio Marcarini, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($36.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Marcarini shows a much darker expression of Treiso, along with greater depth, ripeness and textural richness than the Vallegrande. Black cherry, plum, cloves, leather and smoke all open up in a Barbaresco endowed with considerable mid-palate sweetness and distinctly baritone-inflected nuances. Here the expression of Nebbiolo is broad and ample.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $47.99 – you’re reading that right…
Our price is $19.99 less than the only other listing
Ca’ del Baio Valgrande, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($31.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Vallegrande is a forward, supple wine to drink now and over the next few years. Spice, sweet tobacco, black cherry, menthol, pine and a host of balsamic-inflected nuances give the fruit much of its aromatic lift, while firm tannins add energy and a sense of drive. The overall profile is very typical of Vallegrande and Treiso more broadly. I would prefer to drink the 2012 sooner rather than later, while the flavors retain their brightness. The 2012 finishes with a lovely sense of understated precision that adds nuance.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $29.99
The average price is $31
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New Week, New Month…
Let’s Dive into the New Arrivals!
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Domaine Leflaive Bourgogne Blanc 2013 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate “The 2013 Bourgogne Blanc has plenty of light citrus fruit and orange blossom scents on the nose. The palate is fresh and clean with crisp lime and green apple notes, leading to a light, easy-drinking finish….”
FRANCE-ALSACE
New Wines from Rising Star Agathe Bursin
Agathe Bursin Riesling Dirstelberg, Alsace 2013 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata–Vinous 90 points “Pale straw-green. Pear and citrus notes vie for attention on the perfumed nose. Fresh and clean on the palate, with balsamic nuances to the stone fruit and spicy flavors. Finishes with lovely freshness and length. The Riesling vines are planted on mainly pink sandstone soil in a cooler microclimate toward the top of the hill and have a southeast exposure.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Agathe Bursin Riesling Zinnkoepfle, Alsace Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($41.95) $36 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata–Vinous 91+ points “Bright golden-yellow. Aromas and flavors of peach, green papaya and lemon verbena. Lively on the palate, displaying a bright, lemony finish and good floral lift. Strikes me as deeper than the 2012 and still very young and closed down. Forget about this for another three years in the cellar, then watch it develop and expand over the next eight to ten. In my experience, this wine rarely develops diesel fuel aromas but rather hints at silex and gunflint, even in old age.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Agathe Bursin Sylvaner Eminence Zinnkoepfle, Alsace Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($31.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata–Vinous 92 points “Gold-tinged straw. Delicate aromas of peach, apricot and poached apple. Rich and dense on the palate, with lively acidity lifting the sweet flavors of orchard and tropical fruits. Finishes very long, with impeccable balance. These Sylvaner vines grow in the grand cru Zinnkoepflé, the soils of which are marked by calcaires à entroques. Planted in 1930 with a southeast exposure, these vines give the description vieilles vignes real meaning, but Bursin doesn’t care to use this wording on the label since she believes the term has been reduced to mainly marketing purposes. “In France, vieille vigne wines are made with vines ranging anywhere from as little as 20 years to as much as 100 years of age, so what‘s the point?” she asks.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
FRANCE-ROSE
It’s getting to be that time of year…
M Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche Rose, Loire 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Vinopolnote: The Loire Legend returns with a Cabernet Franc-based pink which is perfect for warm weather sipping!
Domaine de la Petite Mairie Bourgueil Rose, Loire 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Importer note “As we enter the Touraine, the Cabernet Franc takes center stage. The Bourgueil Rosé produced by James Petit from vineyards in Restigné and Bourgueil is a graceful and dignified wine with lots of class. This should prove to be a particularly fine reason to pay attention to an underappreciated appellation that offers stunning value, even more so in its red wines. A favorite of ours!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chateau de l’Eperonniere Rose de Loire, Loire 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Importer note “Mathieu Tijou, born and raised at Chateau Soucherie, now has his own estate down the road at Chateau de l’Eperonnière. He, too, produces a fine rendition of Rosé de Loire, from a blend of Grolleau (70%), with Cabernet Franc (30%). This is a lively, dry wine with a violet tint to the color, a peppery spice on the palate (certainly the effect of Grolleau!) and a raspberry-like fruitiness.”
Domaine Les Aphillanthes Cote du Rhone Rose, Rhone 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Vinopolnote: A very layered Rhone rose of Cinsault, Carignan, Grenache, Clairette, and Counoise.
Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas Amour de Rose, Rhone 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Importer note “The Gigondas Rosé from Stéphanie Fumoso (following gracefully in the footsteps of her mother, Aline Bonfils) is a very limited production affair with a loyal following. A rose-ruby color, intense strawberry-like fruit, and a surprising density mark this fine effort crafted primarily from Grenache with a touch of Syrah. This paean to the glories of rosé is another testament to the unfailing competence and consistently high quality that marks every wine from this estate.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine de Fenouillet Cotes du Ventoux Rose, Rhone 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Importer note “This Ventoux Rosé from the village of Beaumes-de-Venise is pale rose in color, quite fruity, with a brisk mineral finish. As always, the Soard brothers have provided us with one of our finest values. A blend of Cinsault and Grenache, with a touch of Syrah, this favorite quickly disappears. Certified organic.”
PIEDMONT
Barolo with bottle age…
And low, low pricing too!
Cascina Bongiovanni Barolo DOCG 2004 750ML ($59.95) $24 special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 89-90 points “(30% new oak) Very good deep, bright red. Rather exotic, perfumed nose combines raspberry coulis, flowers, minerals, spices, sage and juniper. Juicy and quite primary, with a fresh raspberry flavor lifted by flowers and a hint of orange peel. Very firmly built and not at all flashy but the slightly tough tannins are a bit youthfully spiky and this very pure Barolo will need time to gain in complexity. The 2003 is rounder than this 2004, which reminded me of a muscular Cote de Nuits. Mozzone told me he looks for elegance and immediate pleasure in his basic Barolo. He planned to bottled this wine in February of 2008.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $57.99
Cascina Bongiovanni Barolo DOCG 2005 750ML ($39.95) $21.90 special
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “This latest vintage from Cascina Bongiovanni delivers a fresh bouquet of airy fruit, red currants, spice, licorice, leather and milk chocolate. Although it’s still young, the wine shows very good integration of oak and will surely improve with time. It’s succulent, powerful and intense in the mouth.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $29.79
Cascina Bongiovanni Barolo DOCG 2007 750ML ($59.95) $24 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “This is elegant and light in weight, exhibiting rose, strawberry and anise aromas and flavors. Its structure is right in step, leaving a harmonious impression. Expands on the finish, with spice and licorice accents. Best from 2014 through 2028.”
Antonio Galloni 91 points “Cascina Bongiovanni’s 2007 Barolo is a beautiful, open wine bursting with the radiant personality of the vintage. Soft, supple and harmonious through to the finish, the Barolo caresses the palate with layers of floral, spiced fruit. Proprietor Davide Mozzone ages his straight Barolo in used oak. For the last few years, the estate’s straight Barolo has been one of the finest under-the-radar wines in Piedmont, as it is again in 2007.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $53
And some splendid Sottimano selections…
Sottimano Curra, Barbaresco DOCG 2011 750ML ($79.95) $66 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2011 Barbaresco Currà is fabulous. Rich, deep and expressive, the 2011 impresses for its nearly seamless personality and exceptional balance. Here, the warm vintage has softened some of the more angular contours that are often present. Sweet floral and spice notes resonate on the finish, but above all else, the Currà is a wine of texture. Over the last few years, the Currà is the most improved wine at Sottimano, so it’s hardly a surprise it is often the last Barbaresco poured at the estate. I tasted the 2011 twice from bottle; it was compelling on both occasions. Readers should not miss the 2011, as it is fabulous!”
Sottimano Cotta, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Aromas of red berry, tilled earth, menthol and dark cooking spice unfold in the glass. The structured, elegant palate doles out ripe wild cherry, mint, licorice, blood orange and chopped herb alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. It’s still tight so let it unwind for a few more years.”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Cottà shows its typical profile of round, ample fruit and generosity, but with a touch less richness than is the norm. Broad, ample textures fill out the wine’s frame nicely. Pine, menthol and dark spices wrap around a core of super-expressive dark red stone fruits. All of the typical Cottà signatures are in place, but in miniature, which is to say this is a highly representative wine for the year.”
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Cottá shows a slightly subdued personality and a timid approach. The wine is bright, buoyant and brilliant across the board but it delivers its best assets with less intensity compared to the other single-vineyard expressions of Barbaresco produced by Sottimano. Pretty tones of white cherry and forest berry form a smooth union with light spice, mint and cola. This wine should flesh out further with more time in the cellar.” ML
Sottimano Fausoni, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “Sottimano’s 2012 Barbaresco Fausoni shows highly impressive results with a smooth entry to the palate followed by bright fruit flavors that are fused with floral accents, spice and licorice. Fausoni reveals pretty transparency with brilliant garnet accents. The aromas are tonic, vibrant and fresh. There’s plenty of menthol and cardamon-infused lift on the finish. This is a very satisfying wine that promises a long life ahead.”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Fausoni is a very pretty, up-front wine with lovely fruit and precision. Crushed raspberries, flowers and sweet spices grace the palate as the wine opens up in the glass. The flavors are nicely layered in a soft, delicate Barbaresco that shows the more perfumed, aromatic side of Nebbiolo. In 2012, the Fausoni is all about immediacy.”
Sottimano Pajore, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Pajoré is a wine that exudes balance and harmony. The wine is absolutely intact in all its elements and there’s a sense of continuity here that sets it apart. As it warms in the glass, this beautiful Barbaresco takes on greater aromatic intensity with its floral tones that blossom brighter and the fruity tones that emerge steadily from the bouquet. Spice, leather and grilled herb linger delicately at the back. The Barbaresco Pajoré is a beautiful wine.” ML
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2012 Barbaresco Pajoré shows the pedigree of this great site in its balance of fruit, acidity and tannin. Like all the wines in this vintage, the Pajoré is a mid-weight Barbaresco, but here it is the wine’s textural finesse that impresses above all else. Chalky tannins underpin flowers, spices, tangerine peel and star anise on the expressive, floral finish.”
Sottimano Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2010 750ML ($179.95) $149 special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2010 Barbaresco Riserva emerges from old vines in both Currà and Pajoré. Deep, dense and exquisitely layered in the glass, the 2010 offers a magnificent interplay of dark fruit, seamless contours and dazzling textural richness. Scents of rose petal, mint, dried herbs and lavender add nuance to the super-expressive Nebbiolo fruit. The finish boasts considerable power married to exquisite finish. This is a wonderfully complete, captivating Barbaresco from Sottimano. All the elements are in the right place. The Riserva spent a total of two and half years in oak with no racking until racking, when the blend was put together.”
Wine Enthusiast–Cellar Selection 96 points “This dazzling red is still in its infancy but promises to bloom into a stunning beauty. It opens with delicate aromas of red rose, perfumed berry, forest floor, exotic spice, aromatic herb and a light balsamic note. Energy abounds on the full-bodied, elegant palate, which delivers bright red cherry, strawberry, white pepper and licorice alongside a backbone of vibrant acidity and firm, refined tannins.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $169.99
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Just a reminder about our current shipping specials:
For the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments normally traveling 4 or more business days.
Free service upgrade only applies on single orders purchased and shipped during the promotional period. Additional fees will apply to orders held for any reason until after the promotional period and shipped by Three Day Select. Offer not valid on pre-arrival items that arrive after the promotional period.
We also offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
–to Oregon for $17,
–Washington & Idaho for $20,
–and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason.
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
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Arriving This Week
CHAMPAGNE
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV (2011) 750ML ($99.95) $59 pre-arrival superdeal special
Vinopolnote: Antonio Galloni has dubbed the Blanc d’Argile “Chablis-like in its purity”, with “a focused expression of smoke, flint, minerals and citrus.” A long-time favorite and a fantastic Grower Champagne.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut NV 750ML ($79.95) $44.50 pre-arrival superdeal special
Winery note “[Translated] Our desire as a domaine is to remain discreet stylistically while genuinely showcasing the character of each vintage. Cuvee Fidele does so by definition. This wine shows all of the vinous flavors of Pinot Noir with expressions of limestone (a sign of the pure Kimmeridgian soil) and persistent aromas due to vinification completely in wood.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Descendientes de J. Palacios Villa de Corullon, Bierzo 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “If I was impressed with the 2012 vintage, the 2013 Corullón is otherworldy, especially for the vintage. The wine is tight and solid, a little exotic, extremely balsamic with lots of smoky notes and aromas that reminded me of a cypress, developing very classical aromas of pear and blood orange. Subtle and elegant. The palate is medium-bodied, sharp, very fresh, serious, with good concentration. Very consistent and compact, sometimes these wines from a mélange of vineyards can be extremely complete, and this is a good example. This could very well be the surprise of 2013. Drinkable and approachable, but with the stuffing and balance to live and develop for a good decade (or more). The price is very reasonable for the quality it delivers; wines of this quality are very often double the price asked here. 11,448 bottles produced, one of the shortest vintages of Corullón, where they had to sort and discard plenty of grapes.”
Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos, Bierzo, Spain 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos, Bierzo, Spain 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 pre-arrival special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
#53 Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2015
Vinopolnote: Predominantly Mencia, that grape native to northwestern Spain that we cannot get enough of! Minerals and smoke meld perfectly with red and black fruit and a kiss of licorice – a wonderfully integrated and thought-provoking wine.
Wine Advocate 92 points “Always among the best values of Spain, the 2013 Pétalos del Bierzo has an extra degree of freshness in a cool vintage, and some time in bottle always does this wine wonders. It’s aromatic, open and expressive, with floral aromas and bright fruit, wild strawberries and violets. This is always a subtle, medium-bodied wine, with fine tannins, sleek acidity and a fine minerality. Ready now.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Expressive black cherry, currant, licorice, mineral and smoke flavors mingle in this focused red. The texture is gentle but firm, with well-integrated tannins and racy acidity providing structure. A compact wine that shows good intensity. Drink now through 2023.”TM
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Both Sides Now
The Purity of the Rhone:
This Time, White Wine Shines
If our stock is of any indication, the red wines of the Rhone valley are some of the most sought-after, savored, cellared, and beloved wines in the world. Though the white wines of the region may seem to be underdogs in comparison, they’re unrivaled in their purity and distinctiveness. Below, we share some of the very best white wines to come from the multifaceted Rhone Valley.
White Rhone Wine New Arrivals
Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 1 bottle available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Light, bright gold. Sexy aromas of orange, poached pear, jasmine and ginger. Juicy, fresh and concentrated, offering zesty citrus and orchard fruit flavors that become sweeter and spicier with air. Shows excellent focus on the long, energetic finish, which features notes of smoky minerals and nectarine.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes 2003 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 3 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Very ripe, with lush papaya, peach cobbler, melon and butter flavors that are creamy and powerful through the finish. Exotic hints of ginger, graham and almond, too. Has a track record for drinking well young, and then reemerging after a long dumb period.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Chapoutier Ermitage ‘L’Ermite Blanc’ 2004 750ML ($599.95) $469 special, 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 100 points “A compelling, profoundly great wine is the 2004 Ermitage l’Ermite blanc. This is extremely limited in availability, but the light gold color offers up a liqueur of pears, wet rocks, and honey. Citrus oil, viscosity, extraordinary richness, and acidity make this wine (like all of these Ermitages, made from 100% old-vine Marsanne) just exquisite. There is nothing like these wines anywhere in the world, and the fact that the single vineyard Ermitages are aged in 100% new oak, yet show no trace of oak whatsoever is mind-boggling. This is exquisite wine that you either drink in its first 3-4 years or forget for two decades.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2012 ($59.95) $49 special, 4 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Starting out, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is a blend of roughly 40% Clairette, 30% Grenache Blanc and the balance Roussanne and Bourboulenc that-s aged all in foudre. A textbook Chateauneuf du Pape white, it offers clean, pretty notes of white peach, green almond and honeysuckle as well as a medium to full-bodied, concentrated, yet very fresh and crisp feel on the palate. Enjoy it anytime over the coming decade or more. Drink now-2022+.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $70
White Rhone Wines Available Here Now
Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2013 750ML ($79.95) $53.50 special, 6 bottles available
Case-12 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2013 750ML ($799.95) $599 special, 1 case available (that’s only $49.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 92 points “Very pure, with fennel, white peach, yellow apple and melon rind notes that are racy and nicely detailed, followed by quinine and wet stone accents on the long, unadorned finish. Drink now through 2018.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $73
Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage La Petite Ruche Blanc 2010 ($29.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “Lush up front, but driven, with well-defined dried pineapple, white peach and melon notes racing through the chamomile-tinged finish. Very pure and long.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chapoutier Ermitage de l’Oree Blanc 2011 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 5 bottles available
Robert Parker 100 points “The 2011 Ermitage Cuvee de l’Oree comes from a lieu-dit known as Les Murets planted with 80- to 90-year-old Marsanne vines. The bouquet offers up scents of Asian spices, lychee nuts, white currant liqueur and peach and apricot marmalade. This stunning, honeyed, flamboyant white is perfection in a glass. Drink it over the next half century.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $246.89
Chapoutier Ermitage Le Meal Blanc 2011 750ML ($219.95) $159 special, 29 bottles available
Wine Advocate 99 points “Surprisingly, I preferred the 2011 Ermitage le Meal Blanc over the 2012 on this occasion and it showed a more flamboyant, sexy style in its caramelized pineapple, tropical, honeyed and floral personality. Big, rich and decadent, with fabulous fruit intensity and length, this rock star flirts with perfection and will keep for another 3-4 decades.”
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc 2011 1.5L ($549.95) $419 special, 2 magnums available
Wine Spectator 97 points “Still a bit reserved aromatically, with hints of orange blossom and crème anglaise peeking out, this features a captivating display of racy quinine, honeysuckle and white peach flavors inlaid into a rich core of brioche, Cavaillon melon, white truffle, smoked almond and heather honey. Incredibly long. Hard to resist now, but ideal for when your toddler graduates college. Best from 2019 through 2030.” WS
Wine Advocate 96 points “Just bottled, the 2011 Hermitage Blanc also shows the richer side of Hermitage with its full-bodied, voluptuously textured and up-front profile. Honeysuckle, licorice, toast, citrus oil and liquid mineral-like qualities all emerge from this beauty, and it stays beautifully fresh and focused on the palate. A blend of mostly Marsanne, yet with roughly 20% Roussanne, from the l’Ermite, Les Rocoules, Maison Blanche and Peleat lieux-dits, this substantial white should be consumed over the coming 2-4 years, or forgotten for a decade or more. It will have over two decades of longevity.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc 2012 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 14 bottles available
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc 2012 1.5L ($699.95) $499 special, 1 magnum available
Wine Spectator 97 points “A stunner from the start, with distinct depth to the creamed mango, white peach and heather flavors, this maintains superior precision and definition as the singed almond, chamomile, salted butter and ginger notes fill in. Glazed pear, elderflower honey and beeswax details chime in on the extremely long finish. Enjoyable now, but needs serious cellaring to show its full potential. Best from 2016 through 2037. 500 cases made.” JM
Wine Advocate 96 points “Much more open, fleshy and sexy, the 2012 Hermitage Blanc was just bottled a month prior to this tasting. Coming from l’Ermite, Les Rocoules, Maison Blanche and Peleat lieux-dits, it’s always a rough blend of 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne that’s aged in barrel. Loaded with notions of honeysuckle, orange marmalade, powered rock, buttered citrus and green almond, it’s full-bodied, rich, upfront and fruit loaded. While I think it will be a relatively accessible early in its life, it has the concentration to hold for two decades.” WA
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94-96 points “Tasted in single-site components from tanks as the wine awaited blending: #1, from Peleat: Ripe pear and honey aromas, with a suave floral accent and a hint of smoky minerals. At once rich and lively, showing excellent back-end power. #2, from Rocoules: Intense, mineral-accented citrus and orchard fruit aromas, with a sexy floral nuance building with air. Bright, focused and mineral-driven, with a strong Meyer lemon quality lingering on the tangy finish. #3, also from Rocoules: Showing more emphasis on orchard fruit than the first Rocoules tank, with powerful quince and pear flavors and a touch of bitter quinine. Dusty minerals sharpen the long, sappy finish. #4, from l’Ermite: Spicy citrus zest and ginger scents along with a chalky mineral note and a hint of anise. Smoky and penetrating, with superb finishing clarity and lingering spiciness. #5, also from l’Ermite: More floral and masculine than the previous l’Ermite, with strong jasmine and orchard fruit character and a touch of bitter quinine. Bright and nervy on the finish, which doesn’t want to let up.” JR
Chateau Mas Neuf Costieres de Nimes Cuvee Rhone Paradox Blanc 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 88 points “A blend of 66% Grenache Blanc and 35% Roussanne, the 2014 Costieres de Nimes Rhone Paradox Blanc is a juicy, clean and classy white that offers plenty of citrus blossom, white flowers and white peach in a medium-bodied, lively and refreshing style. It has the purity and freshness to drink nicely on its own, yet has solid solid texture as well and will be versatile on the dinner table. It’s a solid value to enjoy over the coming year.”
Domaine Rene Rostaing Les Lezardes Viognier, IGP Collines Rhodaniennes 2012 750ML ($39.95) $29 special, 14 bottles available
Importer note “From several parcels of old vines immediately adjoining Côte Rôtie and Condrieu, Rostaing produces a gorgeous non-appellation white and red called Les Lezardes.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
White Rhone Wine Arriving in…
…May
Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2014 750ML ($69.95) $58 pre-arrival special
Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2014 1.5L ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Captivating, with succulent apple, pear and mango notes, gilded with almond and ginger cream hints before the long, brioche-edged finish takes over. Broad, but shows cut and refinement.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
… and August!
Domaine de Saint-Siffrein Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2014 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 91 points “A classic white from the region that’s made from mostly from Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne and Bourboulenc, the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc smells of citrus, freshly picked apple and mint. Very fresh and crisp aromatically (this is the mark of the vintage), it’s more rich than you’d think on the palate and is medium-bodied, nicely textured and finishes with outstanding length. It’s very well done and if you’re looking for a classic white from the region, here you go. I’d drink it over the coming 3-4 years, but it will evolve for longer.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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A Half-Case of Wine Bliss
Around The World in Six Bottles
The Vinopolis Passport
OREGON
J. Christopher ‘Sandra Adele’ Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 15 bottles available
Vinopolis Passport Credentials: “It’s just great winemaking. Two great vineyard sites make for a captivating and multifaceted cuvee – there’s a beautiful call-and-response going on between the softer floral elements and the more assertive, dark-fruit-and-spice-based elements. Oregon at her best!”
Winery note “The J. Christopher Sandra Adele Pinot Noir is a cuvée named for Jay’s mother, Sandy. It is a blend of wines from two outstanding vineyards in the Dundee Hills AVA: Abbey Ridge and Charlie’s Vineyard. Simply gorgeous, this is both dark and bright in the aroma, intense and delicate on the palate. As is typical of this cuvée, it combines an earthy depth with an ethereal, floral lightness. It is delicate and fine, with the firm juicy acidity of the vintage, and a long, captivating finish. 110 cases produced”
CALIFORNIA
Wind Gap Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, California 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36 bottles available
Vinopolis Passport Credentials: “This one was a very pleasant surprise when tasted a few weeks ago. A very easy-to-love wine which doesn’t sacrifice complexity in the process, the Sonoma Coast Pinot offers a terrific blend of floral essences with more savoral, almost herbal elements. A fine choice for someone looking for a softer, more graceful Californian Pinot.”
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2014 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is deep, pliant and incredibly inviting, with a fabulous combination of pliant fruit, expressive aromatics and superb persistence. Rose petal, mint, savory herbs and game add the closing shades of inflection. There is something (a lot) to be said for the wisdom of blending fruit from different sites to make a complete, balanced wine. Wine Gap’s appellation-level wines often prove that point eloquently, as is very much the case here.”
FRANCE
Salvard Cuvee Unique Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($19.95) $11.95 special, 18 bottles available
Case-12 Salvard Cuvee Unique Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($219.95) $119 special, 3 cases available
Vinopolis Passport Credentials: No shortage of impeccable Volnay here, of course. But this time around, we can’t help but highlight this small-but-mighty bottle from Cheverny. Light and energetic, it’s the perfect all-around wine for the warmer months. Suits the broadest possible range of cuisines and scenarios, and I’ve done the research to prove it!
Vinopolnote: Organic; grown from 10-20 year old Pinot vines planted in clay and sandy soils. 100& destemmed, with six day maceration. Vinified in stainless steel cuves, aged on the fine lees, and bottled unfiltered.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
ITALY
Foradori Morei Teroldego Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT, Trentino-Alto Adige 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 15 bottles available
Vinopolis Passport Credentials: “The wines of Elisabetta Foradori are virtually peerless; her reds and whites alike are a wine experience entirely of its own. The broadness of flavor in the 2013 Morei is remarkable given how well-aligned and balanced it is. Expect to be pleasantly startled.”
James Suckling 94 points “A wine with beautiful vibrancy and energy showing dried-cherry, berry, mineral and lemon character. Full body, silky tannins and a long, intense finish. From biodynamic grapes. Drink now.”
GERMANY
Weingut A.J. Adam Dhroner Hofberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2011 750ML ($39.95) $29 special, 9 bottles available
Case-12 Weingut A.J. Adam Dhroner Hofberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2011 750ML ($349.95) $299 special, 1 case available
Vinopolis Passport Credentials: “I’d love to drink one of these every six months or so for the next five years, just to bear witness to the shifting in fruit, acid, and texture. There’s a beautiful sense of tension to this wine which makes drinking it exciting; with five years of age already in-bottle, readers should begin to take note of this all-star effort from Adam.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “Talcum and orange blossom fetchingly scent Adam’s 2011 Dhronhofberger Riesling Kabinett, then join white peach on a luscious, delicate, subtly creamy palate, with a sense of wafting inner-mouth perfume as well as nut cream and wet stone undertones lasting into a refreshing finish, where the effects of a small lot of wine with unusually high acidity are noticeable and engender a certain largely productive tension. As this opened to the air, a sense of interactive dynamic between its fruit and flowers on the one hand and emerging stony, alkaline, and saline notes on the other served to heighten an already high level of stimulation. This should be a delight to follow for the next 15 years or so and will probably gain in nuanced complexity.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
ARGENTINA
Zorzal Eggo Tinto de Tiza, Tupungato 2014 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Vinopolis Passport Credentials: “We’ve come on a bit strong with this wine, but not without justification: the wine is simply great. Easing away from oak, the Eggo taps into the terroir and beauty of Argentina. The violet elements really shine here, with just enough earth balancing out the otherwise silky-smoothness of the wine. Just about as good as it gets, to be frank.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2014 Eggo Tinto de Tiza is a blend from three different vineyards in Tupungato Winelands in Gualtallary. It’s a blend of mostly Malbec with some Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. As is the case with the whole Eggo range, the wine didn’t see any oak, and in this case it was matured in egg-shaped cement vats for one year. There are violets, plums, dark cherries and something earthy. This is slightly riper than the 2013. The medium-bodied palate has is fresh with a silky texture, pure flavors and a mineral-driven finish. At this price I’d buy it by the case. Super!”
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Time to Say Good Buy!
Sale Ends Friday
Picotious Pattes Loup Sale
Thomas Pico Domaine Pattes Loup Butteaux, Chablis Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $44; 24 bottles remaining
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2013 Chablis 1er Cru Butteaux is more reserved, earthier on the nose compared directly with the Beauregard and the Vaillons. Touches of chalk and granite begin to emerge with a hint of orange rind in the background. The palate is well balanced with a keen line of acidity, more orange zest and dried apricot notes with just a hint of honey toward the finish. There is a fine grip in the mouth with a long and spicy finish. This is all about the steady build to the finish and it constitutes another excellent wine from the finest drummer in Courgis.” NM
Thomas Pico Domaine Pattes Loup Cote de Jouans, Chablis Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $41.90; 11 bottles remaining
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2013 Chablis Côte de Jouan is matured in barrel for one year (alcoholic and malolactic) and then six months in vat. It has a precise and quite understated bouquet with hints of white truffle filtering through the citric fruit. The palate is well balanced with light pear and citrus notes on the entry, immediately followed by a well-judged citric seam that lends a sense of tension to the finish. For me, this is a distinct level up from the village cru and is well worth hunting down.” NM
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