In Today’s Newsletter:
Faiveley’s Long Awaited 2017s
Arriving Friday
In-Store Shopping Returns Tuesday
Masks Required
Thibaud Boudignon
Superior Savennières
New Chablis Lands Friday
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin
Some of Our Favorite Rosés
Are On The Way!
The Pinnacle of Champagne
Top Picks $125+
Masterpiece Barolos from Cappellano
Including 2016 Magnums Arriving in July
Faiveley’s Long Awaited 2017s
Arriving Friday
The wines of Faiveley, while always of superlative quality, historically were known for their potential in the cellar and not always for their immediate approachability. Concentrated, stern, and ageable were the most common descriptors in reviews. It took the new generation, a team of siblings, Erwan and Eve Faiveley, to push the winery into modernity and thus introducing wines that were softer and more approachable in their youth, while still offering the potential to age with grace.
Even small changes to the style of a domaine that dates back to 1825 is considered revolutionary in Burgundy, and there were a number of people who were afraid that the transition would ruin one of the anchors of the region. Fortunately, when the first wines of the new generation started appearing in 2007 the results were reassuringly delicious, and the changes not nearly as drastic as some had feared. The whites were still simultaneously silky and muscular, the reds still exceptionally pure and elegant. And all the while many of the wines were showing heightened aromatics and a softer feel on the palate. Village level wines were easy to enjoy immediately, and even most Premier Cru wines were showing themselves well after a brief introduction of air.
While the generational shift is still playing out before our eyes, the wines of Faiveley are still true to their roots. And 2017, one of the finest of the century, is the perfect vintage to discover for yourself why these are always considered among the region’s finest.
Arriving Friday, June 11th:
Domaine Faiveley Les Cazetiers, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Burghound 91-94 points “(from a huge 3.96 ha parcel). Here the wood regimen is no longer subtle though it stops short of masking the beautifully layered aromas of plum, spice, dark currant and freshly turned earth. The highly energetic and delineated middle weight plus flavors exude noticeable minerality on the powerful and focused finish that displays outstanding depth and persistence. Moreover, the finish really fans out as it sits on the palate. 2029+.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Charmes, Meursault Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 89-92 points “Pale, slightly green-tinged yellow. Captivating aromas of lemon zest, lemon drop and lavender. Very rich and concentrated, with ripe stone fruit and lemon drop flavors complicated by savory minerality. Tactile, spicy and light on its feet, but not as silky or deep as some of the other cru bottlings at this address. Finishes with a hint of raw pineapple and a menthol edge. Faiveley doesn’t own this plot but does all the work in the vines; still, the yield here was in the range of 50 to 52 hectoliters per hectare, vs. around 40 in most of the estate holdings in 2017.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $183.33
The next best price is $183.33
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Aux Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 90-92 points “Exotic aromas of smoked duck, dark wild berries, baking chocolate and spices introduces the 2017 Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Chaignots, a medium to full-bodied wine with tangy acids, satiny structuring tannins and a deep core of sapid, pungently spicy fruit. It’s a definite success.”
Neal Martin – Vinous 90-92 points “The 2017 Nuits Saint-Georges Aux Chaignots 1er Cru has a more cohesive, deeper bouquet than the Les Damodes, a mixture of red and black fruit, crushed stone and chalk. The elegant palate is well balanced with supple tannin, a fine bead of acidity and a touch of orange sorbet enlivening the finish. Excellent.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Les Damodes, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Burghound 90-92 points “Moderate reduction and wood dominate the nose today. Much more interesting are the highly energetic and more mineral-driven flavors that possess a beguiling inner mouth perfume before concluding in a saline and mildly austere finish that is shaped by admirably fine-grained tannins. This is not particularly dense but it is really pretty and should age well on its balance. 2027+.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Les Porêts-Saint-Georges, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
No reviews for the 2017 vintage. 2015 review provided for reference.
Wine Spectator 93 points “Dark tones of black currant, blackberry and violet mark this broad, muscular red, which is burly on the compact finish, with an earthy aftertaste. Best from 2022 through 2037.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Les Pruliers, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Les Saint-Georges, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($169.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Tim Atkin MW – Decanter 95 points “This is a négociant cuvée of Les St-Georges, although it includes around one-third of the Faiveleys’ own fruit. It’s fresh, balanced and will be ready to drink comparatively young – not always the case with this premier cru. It displays appealing freshness in a medium body, with scented wood, 40% new, and a bright, focussed aftertaste. Drink: 2024-2029. (Nov 2018)”
Only 5 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley La Garenne, Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 91-93 points “Pale bright yellow. Captivating nose combines lemon drop, underripe pineapple, dusty stone, white pepper, flowers and mint. Tightly wound and extremely backward, more salty than sweet. Quite minerally and precise owing to its cool, high site. This crisp, intense wine finishes very long and alive, with pungent crushed stone. Almost 2014-like in its coolness, density and savory minerality.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 6 bottles available!
Domaine Faiveley Les Referts, Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 90-92 points “Pale, bright, green-tinged yellow. Reticent but pure fruit-dominated aromas of peach and underripe pineapple. Smooth on entry, then salty and dense but light on its feet, showing the focus of a Puligny more than the comparatively easygoing fruit of Meursault. Nicely concentrated but not a bit heavy. This saline, uncompromisingly dry wine shows little in the way of easy sweetness, finishing with a resounding pineapple note and serious grip.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Highlights, in Stock Now:
Domaine Faiveley Corton ‘Clos des Cortons Faiveley’ Monopole Grand Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 95-98 points “Bright ruby. Fruit-driven aromas of crushed black cherry and dark raspberry convey outstanding pungent lift. Incredibly concentrated, sappy and primary, conveying outstanding juicy purity and compelling thickness to its dark fruit and violet flavors. At once hugely powerful and utterly seamless, this wine finishes with great spicy length and lift. A real essence of Burgundy–and likely to evolve gracefully for 25 years or more.”
Domaine Faiveley Les Cazetiers, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 29 bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 94 points “From bottle, Faiveley’s 2016 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Les Cazetiers is showing very well indeed, unwinding in the glass with aromas of blackberries, cassis, dark chocolate, grilled game, bergamot and warm spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, textural but full of energy, with a gourmand core of succulent, sapid fruit that cloaks its rich, satiny tannins, concluding with a long, subtly carnal finish. Surpassing my recollection of it from barrel, this is an unequivocally superb Cazetiers.”
Domaine Faiveley Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru, Côte de Nuits 2016 750ML ($319.95) $259 special, 9 bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 95 points “From bottle, the 2016 Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru is showing superbly, wafting from the glass with a wild and complex bouquet of blackberries, cassis, grilled game, currant leaf and candied peel. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, its satiny tannins beautifully cloaked in a succulent core that marries pristinely ripe fruit with alluring hints of the savory and the carnal, concluding with a long and expansive finish. Finer boned than the more gourmand 2015 rendition, this is an incredibly classy effort that will offer a broad drinking window.”
Domaine Faiveley Les Porêts-Saint-Georges, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 16 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 91 points “Pretty dark fruits such as blackberry and blueberry with hints of spice. Full body, tight center palate, and fine tannins. Better in a year or two, but very delicate, firm and delicious.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $97
The next best price is $97
Domaine Faiveley Volnay-Santenots, Volnay Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 1 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points “Pure blackberry, cherry and violet flavors are the hallmarks of this enticing red. Black pepper and mineral notes chime in, matched to a velvety texture. A chalky sensation lines the lingering finish. Best from 2019 through 2032. 38 cases imported. “
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Love red Burgundy? We have over 200 different options from the Côte de Nuits and over 90 different options from the Côte de Beaune in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Fourrier and Roumier, as well as much more from Faiveley.
In-Store Shopping Returns Tuesday
Masks Required
We are re-opening for in-store shopping on Tuesday, June 8th!
Properly worn masks will be required at all times
Our maximum capacity will be six customers at one time
Thibaud Boudignon
Superior Savennières
Superior Savennières
Thibaud Boudignon is a breakout star of Loire Valley. The Savennières-based producer has rare gift of taking all of Chenin’s energetic richness and compressing it into a linear beam of mineral electricity. He’s captured the attention and love of several reviewers and wine writers, so we’ll hand the mike off for now:
“One of the most exciting up-and-coming producers in the Loire, Thibaud Boudignon already has a fervent following in America. A Bordeaux native and former judo champion, Boudignon began making his own wine in 2009 and now has seven hectares, farmed biodynamically, in Anjou and Savennières.” –Jason Wilson – Vinous Media
“Thibaud Boudignon is a recent entry to Savennières, having started his project in 2009, but oh, my, the purity of his wines is impeccable. The three Savennières – La Vigne Cendrée, Clos de Frémine and Clos de la Hutte – have their own personalities. The transparency and harnessed power of these wines offer a contrast to the bigger, bolder Savennières styles. It may only be a young domaine, but the clarity of the wines made from these young vines is truly exciting. I look forward to the vines maturing further.” –Rebecca Gibb MW
“Thibaud Boudignon is unquestionably one of the most exciting figures in wine today. Originally from Bordeaux, he honed his winemaking craft while working at Philipe Charlopin in Gevrey-Chambertin during the early 2000s. He was shortly thereafter hired by Savennières producer Château Souchérie to be their winemaker in the late 2000s. His first and most important contribution to the estate was the introduction of strict organic practices in the vineyards which, along with his immense winemaking skills, elevated this already historic domaine to new heights. It was in 2009 that he began to make wine under his own name from a scant 3.5 ha in the heart of Anjou and Savennières. Knowing that the quality of his fruit was of most importance, he committed himself absolutely to the health of his vines, choosing to farm organically and spend the majority of his time in the vineyards. His devotion paid off quickly, for in just a few vintages, his name began to circulate among Loire growers, eventually to top restaurants in Paris, and finally overseas. The speed at which he has garnered so much praise speaks to the remarkable quality of his wines. It is wines like these that make us remember why we love this business. Just when you think you’ve had the best a region has to offer, a new discovery comes along to rock your world. Boudignon is such a discovery, with wines that speak so clearly of their place of origin. It is in this writer’s humble opinion, that there is no greater dry Chenin Blanc being made in the world today. Period.” –Skurnik Imports
Just Arrived:
Thibaud Boudignon Anjou Blanc, Loire 2019 750ML ($47.95) $44 special, 29 bottles in stock now
Thibaud Boudignon Anjou Blanc, Loire 2019 1.5L ($99.95) $89 special, 6 magnums in stock now
No reviews for the 2019 vintage. 2018 review provided for reference.
Jason Wilson – Vinous 92 points “Quiet, elegant nose of beeswax, ripe pear and smoke. Rambunctious, lively and textured in the mouth, bursting with grilled lemon and green apple plus notes of salt and smoke, all underpinned by smooth stoniness. A cool, youthful wine that is full of energy.”
Importer note “With a tight core of saline terroir enveloped within ripe medium bodied fruit, this chenin blanc delivers a focused example of Thibaud’s style of ripe fruit matched with elegance and precision.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Thibaud Boudignon Anjou Blanc ‘a Francoise…’ Loire 2019 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Cut like a diamond with clean lines and explosive fruit. Long detailed finish that fans out with a touch of creaminess. Still evolving and will reward the one who has patience. A worthy homage to his mother and grandfather.”
Importer note “Made from his finest plots in Anjou. The wine is named after his late mother, who tragically passed away from cancer when Thibaud was 17 years old. He makes this wine in her honor, without any compromise. If he feels the wine does not live up to his mother’s name, he won’t make it.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Thibaud Boudignon Savennières Clos de Frémine, Loire 2019 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW – Vinous 95 points “An elegant and pure style that offers a delightful silken texture. The 2019 Clos de Frémine floats delicately, almost as if you are tasting a cloud, despite containing plenty of intensity in its focused core of fruit. There’s a burst of fresh acidity and a bristle of fine-grained texture; whether that’s the tannin or the soil, it’s there on the finish. I could tell you it tastes of apples and citrus, but this is a wine that seems to care less about fruit descriptors and more about the essence of its place.”
Importer note “Just across a small road from Clos de la Hutte, in the hamlet of Poissonnière, Clos Frémine is an exciting addition to Thibaud’s stunning Savennières lineup. Just like it’s famed neighbor, the vineyard sits on pure schist that is found only 20cm below the surface. There is a bit more sand at the base of this site, which provides the wine with a delicate lift and added layer of elegance.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Thibaud Boudignon Rosé de Loire 2020 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Importer note “While Thibaud has (rightly) become a superstar for his world-class Chenin Blancs, many insiders have discovered one of his best kept-secrets: rosé. Made from a plot of Cabernet Franc and Grolleau in Anjou that he simply could not pass up the opportunity to work with, this is one of the most saline and mineral rosés we have ever come across. 80% Cabernet Franc, 20% Grolleau. Shallow soils of grey schist and rhyolite (volcanic soil) and clay. Indigenous yeast fermentation. No malo. Direct press rosé. Aged in stainless steel. A noble, supremely saline rosé. Delicate texture. Made like a white wine to preserve salinity and structure.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Also in Stock Now:
Thibaud Boudignon Savennières La Vigne Cendrée, Loire 2018 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Importer note “La Vigne Cendrée is the smallest parcel of the domaine, 0.5 hectares, in the commune of Savennières. In spite of its small surface area there is an exceptional mosaic of terroir : purple schist, granite and clay silt. Because of the clay and the southern exposition, this wine is naturally richer. Half is aged in 226 liter burgundy barrels and half in foudre, with no new wood, for 12 months, this wine is very ‘burgundian.’ La Vigne Cendrée offers a combination of generosity and mineral tension under a noble reduction.”
Thibaud Boudignon Savennières Clos de la Hutte, Loire 2018 750ML ($119.95) $95 special, 18 bottles in stock now
No reviews available for the 2018 vintage. 2019 review provided for reference.
Rebecca Gibb MW – Vinous 97 points “The 2019 Clos de la Hutte is the site that spoke to Boudignon when he arrived in Savennières. Once the site of a monastery, it’s not yet a religious experience drinking this, but it’s not got far to go: there’s a sense of expansion in the mouth, followed by impressive structure, showing its serious intentions and a sense that it’s good enough to eat. There’s an intriguing white floral note alongside pear, followed up with energetic acidity. Excellent texture and sapidity on the finish, providing length and structure. This wine has it all: delicacy and power, structure and refinement. Unfortunately, frosts in 2019 were not kind so there is very little of it to go around.”
Importer note “[A new] addition to Thibaud’s range of Chenin Blanc comes from a half hectare plot within the Clos de la Hutte (1.5ha) lieu-dit. The vines are young but the wine is profound. There is a long history to this site and Thibaud is channeling every bit of it here. The volumes are miniscule – 1000 bottles released. Clos de la Hutte is situated in the commune of La Poissonnière; the Clos de la Hutte is an ancient religious site of 7 hectares, of which 2.6 are planted with vines. At the heart of this ancient monastery are vines produced from a massal selection of Chenin Blanc coming from the best domaines of the Loire. 5 different varieties of Chenin were planted together so as to best express the intensity and singularity of this special place. 50% vinified in oval demi muid, 25% in 320 liter cigars, and 25% in 500 liter. The ageing last one year in wood and a minimum of 3 months in stainless steel. The Clos de la Hutte seduces with its aromatic finesse and the intense minerality in the mouth.”
Love the Loire? We have over 90 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Clos Rougeard, Dagueneau, Domaine Huet and more, on our web store now.
New Chablis Lands Friday
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin
Arriving Friday, June 11th:
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Chablis, Burgundy 2017 750ML ($31.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 89 points “The 2017 Chablis Villages is performing well from bottle, revealing pretty aromas of citrus fruit, white flowers and peaches. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, elegantly textural and vibrant, with good flesh at the core and a precise finish.”
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Pale straw-yellow color. Fresh but restrained scents of soft citrus fruits and oyster shell minerality. Then round and sweet in the mouth, but with surprising sappiness and lemony lift. This can be enjoyed anytime.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $37.99
The next best price is $37.99
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Valmur, Chablis Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2015 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru comes across a little oaky on the nose, but the fruit handles it well. The bouquet is detailed and focused, with hints of dried honey and nutmeg developing in the glass. The palate displays good balance, a fine line of acidity and a smooth, almost creamy texture; hints of almond and white chocolate emerge toward the finish. This feels a little obvious in terms of winemaking at the moment, but I suspect it will evolve into a delicious Valmur. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $117
The next best price is $117
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Vaudésir, Chablis Grand Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 94-96 points “The 2017 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru sees around 35% wood maturation (used) and the remainder in stainless steel. It has an intense bouquet with yellow plum, Mirabelle, jasmine and light flint/smoke aromas that are detailed and very well focused. The palate is very harmonious with a smooth texture, perfectly pitched acidity with hints of orange zest, Clementine, Cornice pear and cold flint towards the poised and graceful finish. This is brimming with potential – a stunning Vaudésir.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Vaulorent, Chablis Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2015 Chablis Vaulorent 1er Cru has a very attractive bouquet of orange pith and gunflint infused with pressed yellow flowers. The poised, harmonious palate is well balanced, displaying a fine thread of acidity and just the right amount of salinity on the finish. This is a brilliant Vaulorent from Benoît Droin. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Vaulorent, Chablis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2017 Chablis 1er Cru Vaulorent was fermented and matured entirely in stainless steel this year, and it’s one of the stars of the portfolio, wafting from the glass with notes of mandarin oil, green apple and oystershell. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, pure and ample, with an elegantly satiny attack, a deep core of fruit and a precise, stony finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Pre-Arrival ETA July:
Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Montmains, Chablis Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “The 2015 Chablis Montmains 1er Cru is showing more oakiness on the nose than its peers, though the oak is neatly entwined with the tropical-tinged fruit. The palate has the fatness and weight you anticipate from a 2015 Chablis, if perhaps a little less acidity compared to other Montmains. A touch of orange zest and mandarin furnishes the satisfying finish. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.”
Love Chablis? We have over 40 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Fèvre, Servin, Vocoret and more, on our web store now.
Some of Our Favorite Rosés
Are On The Way!
Are On The Way!
Weygandt-Metzler imports some of your favorite rosés. These are landing over the next 30 days. Stock up now for your summer vacation!
Pre-Arrivals Landing June/July:
Château de Manissy ‘La Belle Étoile’ Tavel VDF Rosé, Rhône 2020 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache. Clay & limestone. Tasting note: Crushed stone, pressed flowers and white cherries. Medium body with a long finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Les Aphillanthes Nymphea Côte du Rhône Rosé, Rhône 2020 750ML ($17.95) $14 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvedre, Counoise. Biodynamic. Gailloux/Galets Roules over clay & limestone. Tasting note: Red fruit and bright acidity. Full body with a long and balanced finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
M Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche Chinon Rosé, Loire 2020 750ML ($17.95) $14 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Cabernet Franc. Sustainable. River gravel & pebbles. Sustainable. Tasting note “Rich raspberry, hints of freen pepper and touch of white peach. Medium body with a long, elegant finish.”
Clément & Florian Berthier Coteaux du Giennois Pinot Noir Rosé, Loire 2020 750ML ($17.95) $14 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Pinot Noir. Sustainable. Clay & limestone. Tasting note: Fresh red berries and cherry, candied orange peel and strawberry. Medium body with a long finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Les Griottes Rosé, Beaujolais 2020 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Gamay. Sustainable. Quartz & clay. Tasting note: Bright watermelon, strawberry and citrus rind with a touch of rosemary. Medium body with a short finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Charvin Côtes du Rhône Rosé, Rhône 2020 750ML ($21.95) $18 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Grenache, Cinsault. Organic. Clay, galets roules & sand. Tasting note: Crushed strawberry, Bing cherry with hints of grapefruit and crushed stone. Medium body with a long finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Domaine Collotte Marsannay Rosé, Côte de Nuits 2020 750ML ($21.95) $18 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Pinot Noir. Sustainable. Clay & limestone. Tasting note: Ripe pomegranate, strawberries and raspberries. Medium body with a short finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Rosé, Rhône 2020 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvedre. Organic. Sand, clay & cailloux. Tasting note: Ripe raspberry, bitter cherry, blood orange and stone. Medium body with a long finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $31.99
The next best price is $31.99
Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Bandol Rosé, Provence 2020 750ML ($31.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Bandol Rosé, Provence 2020 750ML ($359.95) $288 pre-arrival special (that’s only $24/bottle!)
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Mourvedre, Grenache, Cinsault, Clairette. Organic. Clay, limestone & cailloux. Tasting note: Dense cherry and raspberry fruit with citrus and stone flavors. Full body with a perfectly balanced and long finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Time for a rosé refresh? We have over 70 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including best-sellers like Ameztoi, Château Pradeaux, Clos Ste Magdeleine and more, on our web store now.
The Pinnacle of Champagne
Top Picks $125+
In Stock Now:
Nuanced & complete
Hébrart ‘Rive Gauche Rive Droite’ Grand Cru Extra Brut, Champagne 2013 750ML ($149.95) $125 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2013 Brut Rive Gauche-Rive Droite Grand Cru is another superb wine in this range from Hébrart. Ample and creamy, the 2013 possesses tremendous depth from start to finish. The first signs of aromatic nuance are starting to appear, which makes this Brut Rive Gauche-Rive Droite Grand Cru a very complete Champagne to enjoy now and over the next handful of years. Rive Gauche-Rive Droite is a blend of equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Unlike the other wines in the range, it is vinified in oak, which adds quite a bit of texture. Dosage is 4.5 grams per liter.” [Disgorgement may not match review]
Creamy & refined
Pommery Cuvée Louise Brut Nature, Champagne 2004 750ML ($199.95) $149 special, 22 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “A creamy and refined 2004 with a very reserved and tight palate of ultra fine tannins that lend the wine beautiful creaminess and finesse. Subtly floral, offering lightly cooked apples and lemons. Flavorful, yet always hiding behind the fine bubbles. Drink now.”
“This wine is totally memorable and magnificent”
Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires, Champagne 2004 750ML ($199.95) $169 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Decanter 98 points “This Blanc de Blancs Champagne is a bright morning gold in colour, with fine-seamed bubbles and rich, expressive and expansive aromas. Beaten cream, pounded hazels, a hint of baking apples, brioche fresh from the oven. But all these notes are drawn with great subtlety, underscoring the fruit quality of the Chardonnay vineyards used in this blend. On the palate, the wine retains all that aromatic grace and amplitude, marrying it to a shapely fruit presence, vibrant though now well-rounded acidity and textural charm, too. A head-turner. Drink 2019-2028.”
Roger Voss-Wine Enthusiast 98 points “This is an iteration of a legendary Champagne. Perfectly balanced, still packed with white fruit but just touching nuttiness, the wine is at its peak. Celebrating one of the great Champagne vintages of this century, this wine is totally memorable and magnificent.”
Complex & balanced
Rene Geoffroy ‘Les Houtrants Complantés’ Premier Cru Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($219.95) $188 special, 3 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “Disgorged in February 2017 with no dosage, this bottle of the NV Brut Nature Premier Cru Les Houtrants Complantés derives from the 2012 triage, and consists of a blend of reserve wines from 2008 to 2011 that were aged in magnum. Les Houtrants is a precocious lieu-dit in Cumières that Geoffroy planted with a field blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, Arbanne and Petit Meslier in 2004. The wine wafts from the glass with a subtle but complex bouquet of white currants, smoke, wet stones, warm biscuits and verb, followed by a medium to full-bodied, fine-boned and tensile palate that’s exquisitely balanced, its bright spine of acidity cloaked in just enough vibrant flesh and texture to avoid any hint of asperity, concluding with a searingly chalky finish. Intellectually stimulating and compulsively drinkable in equal measure, it’s a pity that only a tiny number of bottles are produced.”
James Suckling 94 points “The nose offers subtly spiced brioche with a light, toasty layer and bright citrus fruit. The palate has a more complex array of fruit and deep, silky texture, laced with salty minerals and grilled nuts at the finish. A non-vintage blend of pinot noir, pinot meunier, chardonnay, arbanne and petit meslier. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $215
The next best price is $215
Wine Enthusiast ‘Cellar Selection’
Pol Roger Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill Brut, Champagne 2009 750ML ($279.95) $249 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Roger Voss – Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. As always, this Pinot Noir-dominated Champagne is a great wine. In this vintage, it is fuller than usual, perhaps less structured—a true reflection of the vintage. Like all releases of this cuvée, the wine will age magnificently. Drink now or hold for at least 10 years to get full maturity.”
“One for the cellar”
De Venoge Louis XV de Venoge Brut Millésimé, Champagne 2008 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 16 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “This is really punchy and broad-shouldered with muscular structure and citrusy undertones. Full body. Lightly tannic and a fresh and vivid finish. This is the first vintage without malolactic fermentation ever. One for the cellar. Better in 2022.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $269.99
The next best price is $269.99
One of the best vintages of the ’90s
Grand Siecle par Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Millénaire, Champagne 1990 750ML ($599.95) $499 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 94 points ” Medium orange-gold color. Musky, wild aromas of strawberry, raspberry, smoke and earth; rather pinot noir-like and expressive of its soil. Rich, ripe and dense with material but not at all heavy; red berry flavors offer a compellingly tangy quality. Very concentrated and still very young. Finishes with superb lift and length.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Love Champagne? We have over 165 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Bérêche, Nicolas Maillart, Pierre Péters and more, on our web store now.
Masterpiece Barolos from Cappellano
Including 2016 Magnums Arriving in July
Including 2016 Magnums Arriving in July
One the most heralded names in traditional Barolo is Cappellano, a producer known for old-school, age-worthy wines that are some of the most profound bottlings in the region. They use long macerations and age their wines only in large botti (casks). The results are wines that can often be austere in their youth, but blossom over the decades into sensual wines that are intellectually and hedonistically satisfying. We still have a limited number of back vintage bottles at prices that are excellent given their provenance. These are very hard to find on the secondary market, as well—unlike some names, collectors of these bottles tend to drink rather than resell. So take advantage of our low prices on some of Barolo’s most captivating wines, including 2 magnums from the outstanding 2016 vintage.
“Augusto Cappellano’s 2016s and 2017s are fabulous. The 2016s are every bit as magnificent as they were last year. In 2016, the personalities of the wines seem a bit inverted, with the Franco showing more power and the Rupestris leaning towards the ethereal side. With the 2017s, the wines go back to their respective roles. The Franco is elusive and beguiling, while the Franco is quite intense. Both 2017s are nothing short of magnificent. It’s shame to not have tasted these Barolos at the winery, but, as I have written before, the lack of context actually serves to show just how special the wines are. Readers will find plenty of historical information on Cappellano in our Article Archive. Years ago, Baldo Cappellano asked me not to rate his wines, so all Cappellano wines show up on our database as NR.” –Antonio Galloni – Vinous
Please Note: Cappellano is adamantly opposed to the idea of numeric score being attached to a wine and requests his wines not be reviewed. As a result, these wines lack the scores and reviews we usually publish. If you’re unfamiliar with these wines, we encourage you to search the internet for more information about these bottles—we’re sure you’ll only be more excited to drink them.
In Stock Now:
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Franco – Michet, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($599.95) $419 special, 3 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $499.95
The next best price is $499.95
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris – Nebiolo, Barolo DOCG 2003 750ML ($279.95) $219 special, 1 bottle in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris – Nebiolo, Barolo DOCG 2004 750ML ($449.95) $289 special, 3 bottles in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris – Nebiolo, Barolo DOCG 2007 750ML ($359.95) $299 special, 5 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $363.33
The next best price is $363.33
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris – Nebiolo, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($499.95) $379 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Pre-Arrival ETA July:
Only 1 magnum available!
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Franco – Michet, Barolo DOCG 2016 1.5L ($2,999.95) $1,999 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni – Vinous “The 2016 Barolo Piè Franco is every bit as impressive as it was last year. What a wine! Rich, powerful and explosive, the 2016 possesses unreal depth and stature to burn. Once again, I am so impressed with the wine’s presence. The Franco is usually ethereal and fleeting, but not here. The 2016 is a bold wine that demands attention. Dark red fruit, sage, iron, leather, licorice and rose petal open with a bit of coaxing. Readers who can find the 2016 are in for a real treat. It is without question one of the wines of the vintage.”
This is the lowest listed magnum price in the USA today!
The next best price is $3,028
The next best price is $3,028
Only 1 magnum available!
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris – Nebiolo, Barolo DOCG 2016 1.5L ($699.95) $599 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni – Vinous “The 2016 Barolo Rupestris is unbelievably delicate. A Barolo of haunting beauty, the Rupestris is endowed with sneaky concentration that reveals itself only with time in the glass. Potent tannins and bright acids give the Rupestris fabulous energy. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2016 for a number of years. It is one of the most reticent young vintages I have ever tasted here. Dried cherry, mint, cedar, dried flowers and sweet pipe tobacco linger on the sinewy finish.”
This is the lowest listed magnum price in the USA today!
The next best price is $695
The next best price is $695
Love Barolo? We have over 75 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Brovia, Mascarello, Vietti and more, on our web store now.
Vinopolis is an independent wine shop in Portland that opened in 2004. Our goal has always been to offer the finest, broadest, and largest selection of wines at the best prices to our customers in Portland, in Oregon, across the West Coast, and throughout the United States.
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