In This Newsletter:
New Arrivals
Just in time for your table!
Producer Spotlight:
Mellen Meyer
Germany – Ruwer
Ruwer roundup
Collector’s Corner:
Dal Forno’s Benchmark Amarone
New Arrivals
Just in time for your table!
Italy – Tuscany
Desiderio is named after a prizewinning bull from Tuscan history credited as the “Father of Chianina”, the regions emblematic breed. Just like its namesake the wine is accordingly brawny while still maintaining a sense of place, with a full body, explosive aromatics and exceptionally long finish.
The combination of rich soil, high elevation and generous Tuscan weather creates a level of ripeness that is almost Napa Valley-esque but with the quintessential Italian rusticity and character. These qualities are exemplified and emphasized under the meticulous farming practices of Avignonesi, who converted the estate to biodynamics in 2009.
The 2013 vintage is noted as being one of the best for Merlot in recent memory, with the season being luxuriously paced with perfectly timed weather. CellarTracker agrees with us, with many reviewers commenting that these are just beginning to enter their ideal drinking windows. If that wasn’t enough we were able to secure the quarter-century anniversary bottling, which includes a commemorative box for those purchasing by the Case-6.
Avignonesi Desiderio Merlot Toscana IGT Tuscany 2013 750ML ($69.95) $36 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “A generous red that shows exuberance and tension. Medium to full body, silky tannins and superb intensity of berries, crushed chocolate and sage. Even so, this remains always refined and elegant. A classic merlot from Tuscany. Better in 2020.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Pure cherry forms the core of this rich red, shaded by hints of cedar, vanilla and tar. Lush and dense, with a lingering aftertaste of sweet fruit and spice. Drink now through 2022. — BS”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Italy – Piedmont
G.D. Vajra remains one of our favorite producers in the Piedmont. Responsible for some of our finest Barolos, from top to bottom Vajra’s wines are excellent. These include an array of the best values coming out of Piedmont today. At all price points they are benchmark wines that others are judged against.
The estate has always been good, but seems to have reached another level over the last decade. Delicious, attractively priced, and organically cultivated, anyone serious about their Piedmont wines drinking ought to be stocking up.
G.D. Vajra Albe Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($41.95) $33 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “This is one of the most accessible and trustworthy wines you can buy from Piedmont. Keeping in line with past vintages, the G.D. Vajra 2017 Barolo Albe opens to medium concentration and a very expressive or fruit-forward bouquet. This hot-climate 2017 edition shows a little more ripeness and roundness as is to be expected, but these results are a safe bet nonetheless. Cherry and raspberry aromas are followed by blue flower and pressed violets. Set this bottle aside for medium or long-term drinking. Production is an ample 40,000 bottles.”
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Editor’s Choice. Red berry, rose and camphor aromas waft out of the glass. Tangy and delicious, the smooth, full-bodied palate doles out ripe Marasca cherry, fleshy raspberry and hints of ground baking spice framed in taut, polished tannins. It’s already accessible but also has good midterm aging potential. Drink 2022–2029.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “The 2017 Barolo Albe has generous aromas of fresh black cherry, dried roses, baking spice, and tar. The palate has concentration of fruit that remains fresh with tension, noted by dried cranberry, orange zest, and cocoa. Once again, this wine proves a great value that well over-delivers for an entry Barolo. Drink 2021-2036.”
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2017 Barolo Albe is exquisite. Bright and beautifully lifted, the 2017 Albe is a wine of pure and total pleasure. All the elements come together so gracefully. Crushed flowers, red berries, mint, cinnamon and lavender are some of the many notes that open in the glass. The 2017 is so nicely done in the way it captures the radiance of the year and the classicism that runs through all these wines. Vineyard sites are Fossati, Costa di Vergne and Le Volte.”
G.D. Vajra Langhe Rosso Piedmont 2019 750ML ($17.95) $12.50 special, 36+ bottles available
No reviews for the 2019. 2018 review provided for reference.
Grapelive 90 points “Vajra’s Langhe Rosso blend is primarily the classic varietals Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera, but also has an interesting addition of Albarossa, Freisa and even a touch of Pinot Noir all of which makes for a unique Piedmonte red that shows silky tannins, tangy vibrant fruits including brandied cherries, plum, cranberry, grilled citrus (Moro orange) and tart red currant along with wild herbs, delicate rustic notes, floral elements, mineral and savory spices….Giuseppe Vajra continues the traditions of his father Aldo, who was a big advocate for organic and holistic farming and promoted a sense of lightness in the wines always searching out vineyard sites thought to be too cold and too high up to ripen, but as history shows he was spot on and Vajra’s high elevation Barolo is one of the most prized wines in the world. The Vajra Rosso is mostly all stainless steel fermented with each lot and varietal done separately and blended before an early bottling to preserve fresh brightness, which this dark ruby/blue hued 2018 shows with lovely transparent clarity. This 2018 opens up nicely with air adding pipe tobacco, black tea, cola bean and dried rose petals, but the minty zesty tartness remains until the finish, in fact it is really nice with a bit of chill and with a picnic spread and or pasta dishes. The 2017 vintage was very warm and the wines are a bit bigger and fruit driven, with these 2018 shows a little more finesse and acidity, which shows through in this Langhe Rosso, it is wine to enjoy now and often, it has a hand crafted feel, but has no pretense, it is easy and delicious. For those looking for value with want this one, no question, but if you want to stay varietal pure, I highly recommend Vajra’s Dolcello, Barbera and Nebbiolo bottlings, there’s quality, value and grace throughout the lineup here.”
G.D. Vajra Ravera Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special, 11 bottles in stock now
97 points Kerin O’keefe-Wine Enthusiast ” From the township of Novello and from what is now widely recognized as one of the denomination’s top vineyard sites, this is just stunning, offering intense aromas of wild berries, new leather, floral notes, camphor and grilled herb. The delicious, structured palate shows finesse and power, featuring ripe red cherry, blood orange, cedar, licorice and mineral notes suggesting tangy iron. Noble tannins provide support. Reflecting the vintage, this won’t need years to come around but will also age well for at least another decade. Drink 2022–2032.”
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “Lifted and herbaceous, the 2017 Barolo Ravera is noted by aromas of fresh pine, ripe red cherry, licorice, and menthol. The palate has depth without weight and is noted by ripe raspberry fruit, apricot, and black tea. Drink 2024-2050.”
James Suckling 96 points “Very floral with pure fruit, such as cherries and raspberries. It’s full-bodied with ultra fine tannins that are energetic and focused. The center palate shows such wonderful fruit character, yet it’s weightless and energetic. Try after 2026.”
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Ravera is gorgeous right out of the gate. I am so impressed with its depth and pedigree. Rose petal, sweet red berry fruit, lavender, spice and dried herbs are all finely delineated in a Barolo of tremendous presence. Orange peel, cinnamon and cedar develop later, adding shades of dimension. Time in the glass brings out the wine’s stature and power. The 2017 is going to be fascinating to follow. Today, it is just breathtaking. That’s all there is to it.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Notable for its purity of fruit, this Barolo features black cherry, black currant, violet, mineral and tar aromas and flavors. Harmonious and lithe, with an underpinning of mineral that lingers through the dynamic finish. Best from 2025 through 2045. —B.S.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94+ points “The G.D. Vajra 2017 Barolo Ravera shows solid build and consistency, with more rich and saturated fruit compared to the other Barolo releases from this historic estate. The Ravera cru offers broad shoulders with a tight textural fabric. That powerful approach makes a good sounding board for the wine’s dark cherry, plum, dark mineral and spice flavors. This is more of a red meat wine. 6,000 bottles were released.”
Italy – Sicily
Located only 12 miles from the ocean, Caruso has been making wine since the late 1800’s. However it wasn’t until the 1990’s did they ever bottle their own wine, previously contracting out to the cooperatives of Marsala. With holdings encompassing almost 300 acres at almost 1000 feet above sea level these are some of the best examples of “New Sicily” winemaking and production. Their portfolio is entirely composed of indigenous Sicilian varietals, including the exceedingly rare Perricone. Liked to Barbara by wine writer and critic, Jancis Robinson it’s a juicy yet herbaceous red that is spectacular with pizza or anything else based in red sauce.
Caruso Wines in stock now:
Caruso & Minini Naturalmente Bio Catarratto Sicilia Sicily 2020 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles arriving
No reviews available for the 2020 vintage. 2019 review provided for reference.
Kerin O’Keefe Wine Enthusiast 90 points “Made entirely with organically framed Catarratto grapes, this zesty white opens with aromas of Spanish broom, chamomile and white stone fruit. The savory, linear palate offers juicy Meyer lemon, honeydew and Bartlett pear alongside bright acidity. It closes on an almond note. – “
Caruso & Minini Naturalmente Bio Nero d’Avola Sicilia Sicily 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe Wine Enthusiast 88 points “Made with organic grapes, this has aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, new leather and crushed Mediterranean herb. On the medium-bodied palate, polished tannins accompany ripe Marasca cherry, star anise and a hint of carob. Bright acidity keeps it fresh. Drink through 2022. – “
Caruso & Minini ‘Naturalmente Bio’ Perricone Terre Siciliane IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles arriving
Caruso & Minini ‘Terre di Giumara’ Frappato – Nerello Mascalese Terre Siciliane IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($17.95) $14.90 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Don’t miss our December Burgundy sales:
Pierre Gelin
Pierre Bouree &
Francois Gay
Shop the sales on our web store!
Producer Spotlight:
Mellen Meyer
Are you looking for an alternative to Champagne that delivers nuance, elegance and refreshment? Consider our selection of Mellen Meyer, one of the brightest stars in the “New School” of Oregon winemakers. Sourcing fruit primarily from the legendary Johan and Whistling Ridge Vineyards, these present a completely different interpretation of the fruit as compared to their still counterparts. If the still wines were neoclassical paintings, then Mellen Meyer would be Rococo.
Mellen Meyer works with an entire palette of styles with a house style that is clearly evident across his portfolio. Featuring minimal dosage allowing for the full character of the varietals to make themselves known, there is a whole spectrum of fruit, spice, and tertiary character at play with a pervasive finish. The choice to source from non-irrigated vines delivers a fruit intensity and nuance rarely seen even in champagne, and speaks to the house’s commitment to quality. These are drinking beautifully now, and the Blanc de Noir promising plenty of aging potential given the kismet of the vintage and vineyard.
In stock now:
Mellen Meyer Brut Sparkling Willamette Valley ($39.95) 31.90 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Winery note: 60% Pinot Noir & 40% Charodonnay. Disgorged March 20, 2021. Aged 30 months on the lees. Produced from non-irrigated vines.
Mellen Meyer Whistling Ridge Vineyard Blanc de Noir Sparkling 2017, Willamette Valley, USA ($69.95) $53.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Winery note: 100% Pinot Noir form the North Block of Whistling Ridge Vineyard, Ribbon Ridge. Aged 34 months on the lees. Disgorged November 18th, 2020. Produced from non-irrigated vines.
Featured Producer:
Ruwer roundup with Karlsmuhle
Weingut Karlsmuhle Kaseler Nies’chen Riesling Auslese Lange Goldkapsel Mosel 2019 750ML ($44.95) $38 special
Collector’s Corner:
Dal Forno’s Benchmark Amarone
You’d be hard pressed to find a producer more synonymous with their region’s production than Dal Forno. When it comes to Valpolicella, the Dal Forno family does just that. For more than 30 years, Dal Forno has been producing deeply concentrated Valpolicella, Amarone and Recioto and is one of the major figures credited with bringing Valpolicella to the global stage.
Romano Dal Forno, the current winemaker/owner, took over the farm in 1983. Risking everything, he invested a large amount in 1990 to update the winery and refine Dal Forno’s process. The extremely bold flavor of the Valpolicella Superiore is a great example of Dal Forno’s commitment to perfection and their respect for traditional winemaking. Just short of an Amarone, it’s made entirely with fruit that has been dried, though for less time than that legally required for Amarone. A key to the Dal Forno style seems to be an incredibly low yield from their vineyard: each bottle of Valpolicella takes six vines worth of grapes to produce!
Dal Forno wines in stock now:
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2010 750ML ($349.95) $319 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Decanter 98 points “2010 is a more considered vintage compared to the outright opulence of 2009, but it’s no shrinking violet, especially in Dal Forno’s hands. This has a meaty nose with savoury hedgerow fruit , surprisingly open already. I had to put an exclamation mark after writing ‘elegant’ in my notes, as it seems incomprehensible that a wine of this magnitude could still have such balletic balance. It is broad and juicy, with chalky grip and clean, fresh acids followed by a hint of warmth on the long finish.”
James Suckling 97 points “Aromas of roses and other flowers with a deep fruit intensity. Full-bodied, dense and ultra-fine with a beautiful texture. Lots of new wood now but this will amalgamate with time into the wine. Fabulous potential. Drink or hold.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This was an excellent vintage in much of Italy, but unfortunately the weather was not as pleasant in this specific area of the Valpolicella. The season saw a lot of rain, and a good amount of fruit was cut and left on the ground because it could not be used. Considering these difficulties, Michele Dal Forno tells me he is “more than happy with the results.” I tasted the 2010 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta next to the 2009 vintage, and having these two wines side by side reinforces just how different they are. The 2010 vintages is sharper, more pointed and direct in comparison, and there is a tiny point of sourness on the close. This wine does not reach the same threshold for fullness, density or richness. It does come close. The wine’s residual sugar measures between 5 and 6 grams per liter, which is normal for this wine, and the bouquet is redolent of familiar black fruit, raisin and spice. However, the wine feels a bit stuck in its tracks at the moment and is evidently experiencing a shy phase in its evolution. It has retreated.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2011 750ML ($419.95) $369 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Decanter 99 points “The strongest wine in my selection, yet this magnificent Amarone’s alcohol is barely visible thanks to its astonishing depth, texture and sumptuousness. Pressed black fruits seep with fruit essences; smoke and cinders; herbal complexities; teasing floral notes, all engraved into a palate that expresses creamy finesse but without a trace of superfluous fat, heat or obviousness. Beautifully crafted, as dignified as any grand Barolo.”
Ian D’agata-Vinous 95+ points “Fully saturated ruby. Very deep, intense aromas of blackcurrant, plums macerated in alcohol, soy sauce, coffee and underbrush on the complex nose. Rich, dense and balanced, with nicely focused flavors of dark berries and aromatic herbs that have a noteworthy savory tang. The long finish features repeating hints of soy sauce, espresso and underbrush. Dal Forno’s is the recognized master of a uniquely powerful, ripe, and concentrated style of Amarone.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2012 750ML ($419.95) $319 special, 8 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “A decadent nose of treacle tart, chocolate, tar, tons of black fruit such as blackberries and mulberries and even ash and licorice. A dense, layered mouthfeel makes for a full-bodied palate that’s explosive yet somehow so refined and pretty all at the same time. The finish goes on and on. Incredible now, but better to wait for this giant to settle well into 2020.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta is a beautifully complete wine, even at this young stage in its life. You feel the youth of the wine in the tightness of the tannins and in the finely knit texture of its concentrated flavor profile. The big surprise is the wine’s fresh acidity that has been carefully safeguarded despite the heat of the vintage and the drying process so deftly executed at this landmark estate. The wine shows no sign of oxidation or evolution, not yet. There is intricate fruit layering with cherry, blackberry, spice and mesquite delivered with such precision, that level of detail defies the very bold and opulent essence of the wine. It has only just started its evolutionary journey.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2013 750ML ($419.95) $319 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta is my favorite wine in the retrospective, along with the amazing 2011, 2009 and 1996 vintages. This wine was released at the beginning of this year, and because Dal Forno skipped over the 2014 vintage, this is the only Amarone we will see for a while (until the highly anticipated 2015 is released). The 2013 vintage is characterized by a slightly more streamlined mouthfeel (which isn’t saying much given the baseline enormity of these wines) with carefully etched aromas of black cherry, rum cake, dark chocolate and toasted espresso. The 2013 vintage was balanced overall without the sudden heat waves we saw in the summers of 2011 and 2012. The grapes finished a slow and steady ripening process over an extended growing season. The effect is graceful and focused. Put this bottle aside in your cellar for the decades to come.”
Eric Guido-Vinous 97 points “The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta needs time – and a lot of it – to show all of its charms. But worry not, because you can already find pleasure in its dramatic display of rich plums and cherries dipped in mocha-infused chocolate with a dusting of cinnamon sugar and sweet tobacco. This is black as night yet truly purple in color, with depths of concentrated wild berry fruits contrasted by zesty acids that do an amazing job of lifting the expression. Grippy tannins saturate slowly, sneaking up on you and lasting throughout the impossibly long black hole of a finish, where notes of licorice, bitters and a coating of cocoa powder linger. Wow. The 2013 is built for the cellar and with tons of upside potential. If you dare to delve into one of these while young, I’d suggest opening your bottle a number of hours prior to enjoying. That said, this will be worth the wait.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Valpolicella Superiore Veneto 2013 750ML ($119.95) $94.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Decanter 97 points “From one of the most iconic wineries in the Orientale, this is aged for two years in oak and a further three in bottle. A proper meditation wine, great with game, strong cheeses or a cigar. It has a huge nose of stewed red fruits, ethereal bramble forest fruits and blackberry jam. Generous, with spicy, bitter cherry-stone freshness. Full-bodied with a rich, intense, spicy undertone.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This is a terrific wine that stood out—and stood tall—despite the fact that it was tasted alongside some of Dal Forno’s most important vintages of the top-shelf Amarone. If that’s not a full-on recommendation, I don’t know what is. The 2013 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta oozes forth with thick concentration and an inky black color. The mouthfeel is thick and impenetrable, and the senses are treated to a long succession of black fruit, tar, spice, smoke, mesquite and barbecue flavors. The wine is full-bodied and very opulent, but it carries that massive intensity with grace and precision. This Valpolicella Superiore is very nicely done.”
Cs-6 Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Valpolicella Superiore Vertical Collection Veneto 11/12/13 ($699.95) $599 special, 1 case of 6 available
A Case Of Six 750ml Bottles
Mixed case: 2x 2011, 2x 2012, 2x 2013. No substitutions.
Reviews for 2011 vintage:
Decanter 96 points “This wine is a blend of 70 per cent Corvina with 20 per cent Rondinella and just 5 per cent each of Croatina and Oseleta. It’s deep black-red in colour, and is dark and forceful, sombre yet voluptuous in aroma: a harmonious weave of black chocolate, sloe and elderberry, with the years in oak bringing a cedary refinement. On the palate, it’s a vault of a wine: deep, dark and roomy, packed with earthy refinements and black-fruited echoes, both severe yet soft and enticing too. The tannins are ample yet fine-grained, the acidity delicate and sustaining. I wrote about the ‘crocodilian’ character of grand Veneto dried-fruit reds wine back in April, but the teeth are polished ivory here. This is horizon-altering ‘Valpolicella’ which would perform outstandingly in any Amarone tasting.”
Ian D’agata-Vinous 95+ points “Fully saturated ruby. Very deep, intense aromas of blackcurrant, plums macerated in alcohol, soy sauce, coffee and underbrush on the complex nose. Rich, dense and balanced, with nicely focused flavors of dark berries and aromatic herbs that have a noteworthy savory tang. The long finish features repeating hints of soy sauce, espresso and underbrush. Dal Forno’s is the recognized master of a uniquely powerful, ripe, and concentrated style of Amarone.”
Reviews for 2013 vintage:
Decanter 97 points “From one of the most iconic wineries in the Orientale, this is aged for two years in oak and a further three in bottle. A proper meditation wine, great with game, strong cheeses or a cigar. It has a huge nose of stewed red fruits, ethereal bramble forest fruits and blackberry jam. Generous, with spicy, bitter cherry-stone freshness. Full-bodied with a rich, intense, spicy undertone.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This is a terrific wine that stood out—and stood tall—despite the fact that it was tasted alongside some of Dal Forno’s most important vintages of the top-shelf Amarone. If that’s not a full-on recommendation, I don’t know what is. The 2013 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta oozes forth with thick concentration and an inky black color. The mouthfeel is thick and impenetrable, and the senses are treated to a long succession of black fruit, tar, spice, smoke, mesquite and barbecue flavors. The wine is full-bodied and very opulent, but it carries that massive intensity with grace and precision. This Valpolicella Superiore is very nicely done.”
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Mellen Meyer
Germany – Ruwer
Ruwer roundup
Collector’s Corner:
Dal Forno’s Benchmark Amarone
New Arrivals
Just in time for your table!
Oregon
Cameron is synonymous with the Willamette Valley and her wines, producing some of the best iterations of the Dundee Hills and Ribbon Ridge AVA’s. Transcending varietal, price point and vintage there is something to be enamored by in every bottling in how they express terroir and John Paul’s winemaking mastery.
Just arrived Cameron Wines:
Cameron Winery Dundee Hills Chardonnay Willamette Valley 2020 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Winery note “This delicious chardonnay is a blend of grapes from Abbey Ridge and Clos Electrique vineyards, deeming it worthy of the Dundee Hills appellation. It displays aromas of vanilla, lime leaf and lemon crème brûlée in the nose and has a rich and tasty mouth with moderate acidity. Perfect for sipping while you prepare dinner and a splendid accompaniment for almost any dish. Consider it a gateway drug for our single vineyard chardonnays!”
Cameron Winery Dundee Hills Friulano Willamette Valley 2020 750ML ($49.95) $35.50 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Winery note “An ode to wines of Vodopivec, our Clos Electrique Friulano was fermented on its skins for 60 days in a clay amphora, then transferred to a neutral barrel for 14 months. Red grapefruit rind, melon and a slight dustiness in the nose. The mouth has a chalky mid palate from the amphora, moderate to high acidity and flavors of persimmons and almonds (but not from cyanide!).”
Cameron is synonymous with the Willamette Valley and her wines, producing some of the best iterations of the Dundee Hills and Ribbon Ridge AVA’s. Transcending varietal, price point and vintage there is something to be enamored by in every bottling in how they express terroir and John Paul’s winemaking mastery.
Just arrived Cameron Wines:
Cameron Winery Dundee Hills Chardonnay Willamette Valley 2020 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Winery note “This delicious chardonnay is a blend of grapes from Abbey Ridge and Clos Electrique vineyards, deeming it worthy of the Dundee Hills appellation. It displays aromas of vanilla, lime leaf and lemon crème brûlée in the nose and has a rich and tasty mouth with moderate acidity. Perfect for sipping while you prepare dinner and a splendid accompaniment for almost any dish. Consider it a gateway drug for our single vineyard chardonnays!”
Cameron Winery Dundee Hills Friulano Willamette Valley 2020 750ML ($49.95) $35.50 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Winery note “An ode to wines of Vodopivec, our Clos Electrique Friulano was fermented on its skins for 60 days in a clay amphora, then transferred to a neutral barrel for 14 months. Red grapefruit rind, melon and a slight dustiness in the nose. The mouth has a chalky mid palate from the amphora, moderate to high acidity and flavors of persimmons and almonds (but not from cyanide!).”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Italy – Tuscany
Desiderio is named after a prizewinning bull from Tuscan history credited as the “Father of Chianina”, the regions emblematic breed. Just like its namesake the wine is accordingly brawny while still maintaining a sense of place, with a full body, explosive aromatics and exceptionally long finish.
The combination of rich soil, high elevation and generous Tuscan weather creates a level of ripeness that is almost Napa Valley-esque but with the quintessential Italian rusticity and character. These qualities are exemplified and emphasized under the meticulous farming practices of Avignonesi, who converted the estate to biodynamics in 2009.
The 2013 vintage is noted as being one of the best for Merlot in recent memory, with the season being luxuriously paced with perfectly timed weather. CellarTracker agrees with us, with many reviewers commenting that these are just beginning to enter their ideal drinking windows. If that wasn’t enough we were able to secure the quarter-century anniversary bottling, which includes a commemorative box for those purchasing by the Case-6.
Avignonesi Desiderio Merlot Toscana IGT Tuscany 2013 750ML ($69.95) $36 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “A generous red that shows exuberance and tension. Medium to full body, silky tannins and superb intensity of berries, crushed chocolate and sage. Even so, this remains always refined and elegant. A classic merlot from Tuscany. Better in 2020.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Pure cherry forms the core of this rich red, shaded by hints of cedar, vanilla and tar. Lush and dense, with a lingering aftertaste of sweet fruit and spice. Drink now through 2022. — BS”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Italy – Piedmont
G.D. Vajra remains one of our favorite producers in the Piedmont. Responsible for some of our finest Barolos, from top to bottom Vajra’s wines are excellent. These include an array of the best values coming out of Piedmont today. At all price points they are benchmark wines that others are judged against.
The estate has always been good, but seems to have reached another level over the last decade. Delicious, attractively priced, and organically cultivated, anyone serious about their Piedmont wines drinking ought to be stocking up.
G.D. Vajra Albe Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($41.95) $33 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “This is one of the most accessible and trustworthy wines you can buy from Piedmont. Keeping in line with past vintages, the G.D. Vajra 2017 Barolo Albe opens to medium concentration and a very expressive or fruit-forward bouquet. This hot-climate 2017 edition shows a little more ripeness and roundness as is to be expected, but these results are a safe bet nonetheless. Cherry and raspberry aromas are followed by blue flower and pressed violets. Set this bottle aside for medium or long-term drinking. Production is an ample 40,000 bottles.”
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Editor’s Choice. Red berry, rose and camphor aromas waft out of the glass. Tangy and delicious, the smooth, full-bodied palate doles out ripe Marasca cherry, fleshy raspberry and hints of ground baking spice framed in taut, polished tannins. It’s already accessible but also has good midterm aging potential. Drink 2022–2029.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “The 2017 Barolo Albe has generous aromas of fresh black cherry, dried roses, baking spice, and tar. The palate has concentration of fruit that remains fresh with tension, noted by dried cranberry, orange zest, and cocoa. Once again, this wine proves a great value that well over-delivers for an entry Barolo. Drink 2021-2036.”
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2017 Barolo Albe is exquisite. Bright and beautifully lifted, the 2017 Albe is a wine of pure and total pleasure. All the elements come together so gracefully. Crushed flowers, red berries, mint, cinnamon and lavender are some of the many notes that open in the glass. The 2017 is so nicely done in the way it captures the radiance of the year and the classicism that runs through all these wines. Vineyard sites are Fossati, Costa di Vergne and Le Volte.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
G.D. Vajra Langhe Rosso Piedmont 2019 750ML ($17.95) $12.50 special, 36+ bottles available
No reviews for the 2019. 2018 review provided for reference.
Grapelive 90 points “Vajra’s Langhe Rosso blend is primarily the classic varietals Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera, but also has an interesting addition of Albarossa, Freisa and even a touch of Pinot Noir all of which makes for a unique Piedmonte red that shows silky tannins, tangy vibrant fruits including brandied cherries, plum, cranberry, grilled citrus (Moro orange) and tart red currant along with wild herbs, delicate rustic notes, floral elements, mineral and savory spices….Giuseppe Vajra continues the traditions of his father Aldo, who was a big advocate for organic and holistic farming and promoted a sense of lightness in the wines always searching out vineyard sites thought to be too cold and too high up to ripen, but as history shows he was spot on and Vajra’s high elevation Barolo is one of the most prized wines in the world. The Vajra Rosso is mostly all stainless steel fermented with each lot and varietal done separately and blended before an early bottling to preserve fresh brightness, which this dark ruby/blue hued 2018 shows with lovely transparent clarity. This 2018 opens up nicely with air adding pipe tobacco, black tea, cola bean and dried rose petals, but the minty zesty tartness remains until the finish, in fact it is really nice with a bit of chill and with a picnic spread and or pasta dishes. The 2017 vintage was very warm and the wines are a bit bigger and fruit driven, with these 2018 shows a little more finesse and acidity, which shows through in this Langhe Rosso, it is wine to enjoy now and often, it has a hand crafted feel, but has no pretense, it is easy and delicious. For those looking for value with want this one, no question, but if you want to stay varietal pure, I highly recommend Vajra’s Dolcello, Barbera and Nebbiolo bottlings, there’s quality, value and grace throughout the lineup here.”
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G.D. Vajra Ravera Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special, 11 bottles in stock now
97 points Kerin O’keefe-Wine Enthusiast ” From the township of Novello and from what is now widely recognized as one of the denomination’s top vineyard sites, this is just stunning, offering intense aromas of wild berries, new leather, floral notes, camphor and grilled herb. The delicious, structured palate shows finesse and power, featuring ripe red cherry, blood orange, cedar, licorice and mineral notes suggesting tangy iron. Noble tannins provide support. Reflecting the vintage, this won’t need years to come around but will also age well for at least another decade. Drink 2022–2032.”
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “Lifted and herbaceous, the 2017 Barolo Ravera is noted by aromas of fresh pine, ripe red cherry, licorice, and menthol. The palate has depth without weight and is noted by ripe raspberry fruit, apricot, and black tea. Drink 2024-2050.”
James Suckling 96 points “Very floral with pure fruit, such as cherries and raspberries. It’s full-bodied with ultra fine tannins that are energetic and focused. The center palate shows such wonderful fruit character, yet it’s weightless and energetic. Try after 2026.”
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Ravera is gorgeous right out of the gate. I am so impressed with its depth and pedigree. Rose petal, sweet red berry fruit, lavender, spice and dried herbs are all finely delineated in a Barolo of tremendous presence. Orange peel, cinnamon and cedar develop later, adding shades of dimension. Time in the glass brings out the wine’s stature and power. The 2017 is going to be fascinating to follow. Today, it is just breathtaking. That’s all there is to it.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Notable for its purity of fruit, this Barolo features black cherry, black currant, violet, mineral and tar aromas and flavors. Harmonious and lithe, with an underpinning of mineral that lingers through the dynamic finish. Best from 2025 through 2045. —B.S.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94+ points “The G.D. Vajra 2017 Barolo Ravera shows solid build and consistency, with more rich and saturated fruit compared to the other Barolo releases from this historic estate. The Ravera cru offers broad shoulders with a tight textural fabric. That powerful approach makes a good sounding board for the wine’s dark cherry, plum, dark mineral and spice flavors. This is more of a red meat wine. 6,000 bottles were released.”
Italy – Sicily
Located only 12 miles from the ocean, Caruso has been making wine since the late 1800’s. However it wasn’t until the 1990’s did they ever bottle their own wine, previously contracting out to the cooperatives of Marsala. With holdings encompassing almost 300 acres at almost 1000 feet above sea level these are some of the best examples of “New Sicily” winemaking and production. Their portfolio is entirely composed of indigenous Sicilian varietals, including the exceedingly rare Perricone. Liked to Barbara by wine writer and critic, Jancis Robinson it’s a juicy yet herbaceous red that is spectacular with pizza or anything else based in red sauce.
Caruso Wines in stock now:
Caruso & Minini Naturalmente Bio Catarratto Sicilia Sicily 2020 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles arriving
No reviews available for the 2020 vintage. 2019 review provided for reference.
Kerin O’Keefe Wine Enthusiast 90 points “Made entirely with organically framed Catarratto grapes, this zesty white opens with aromas of Spanish broom, chamomile and white stone fruit. The savory, linear palate offers juicy Meyer lemon, honeydew and Bartlett pear alongside bright acidity. It closes on an almond note. – “
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Caruso & Minini Naturalmente Bio Nero d’Avola Sicilia Sicily 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe Wine Enthusiast 88 points “Made with organic grapes, this has aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, new leather and crushed Mediterranean herb. On the medium-bodied palate, polished tannins accompany ripe Marasca cherry, star anise and a hint of carob. Bright acidity keeps it fresh. Drink through 2022. – “
Caruso & Minini ‘Naturalmente Bio’ Perricone Terre Siciliane IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles arriving
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Caruso & Minini ‘Terre di Giumara’ Frappato – Nerello Mascalese Terre Siciliane IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($17.95) $14.90 special, 6 bottles in stock now
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Don’t miss our December Burgundy sales:
Pierre Gelin
Pierre Bouree &
Francois Gay
Shop the sales on our web store!
Producer Spotlight:
Mellen Meyer
Are you looking for an alternative to Champagne that delivers nuance, elegance and refreshment? Consider our selection of Mellen Meyer, one of the brightest stars in the “New School” of Oregon winemakers. Sourcing fruit primarily from the legendary Johan and Whistling Ridge Vineyards, these present a completely different interpretation of the fruit as compared to their still counterparts. If the still wines were neoclassical paintings, then Mellen Meyer would be Rococo.
Mellen Meyer works with an entire palette of styles with a house style that is clearly evident across his portfolio. Featuring minimal dosage allowing for the full character of the varietals to make themselves known, there is a whole spectrum of fruit, spice, and tertiary character at play with a pervasive finish. The choice to source from non-irrigated vines delivers a fruit intensity and nuance rarely seen even in champagne, and speaks to the house’s commitment to quality. These are drinking beautifully now, and the Blanc de Noir promising plenty of aging potential given the kismet of the vintage and vineyard.
In stock now:
Mellen Meyer Brut Sparkling Willamette Valley ($39.95) 31.90 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Winery note: 60% Pinot Noir & 40% Charodonnay. Disgorged March 20, 2021. Aged 30 months on the lees. Produced from non-irrigated vines.
Mellen Meyer Whistling Ridge Vineyard Blanc de Noir Sparkling 2017, Willamette Valley, USA ($69.95) $53.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Winery note: 100% Pinot Noir form the North Block of Whistling Ridge Vineyard, Ribbon Ridge. Aged 34 months on the lees. Disgorged November 18th, 2020. Produced from non-irrigated vines.
We carry a whole assortment of other sparkling wines including Champagne, Cava and California Sparkling
Featured Producer:
Ruwer roundup with Karlsmuhle
Thanks to the recommendation of Johann Selbach we were able to find a local gems thats rarely discussed outside of German wine media. The Ruwer is one of the most unique of the Mosel sub- regions, in that it does not receive the benefits of refracted sunlight off the surface of the river like her sisters Bernkastel or Terrassenmosel due to the smaller size of the Ruwer river. Climatologically speaking this slows ripening and requires longer hang time on the vine, reflected in the in the wines produced with higher sugar levels and pronounced floral aromatics. You’d be hard pressed to find a producer that better exemplifies these qualities than Peter Geiben’s work at the estate.
Karlsmuhle is based in the Ruwer and has an estate blessed with exceptionally steep vineyards and old vines. These factors considered it’s little surprise that his wines have won “Best in Germany” multiple times and have been mentioned by the likes of Terry Theise. In 4 years of competing, Karlsmuhle won 9 medals across multiple categories. Karlsmuhle is one of only a handful of producers in all of Germany that make Riesling at all levels of the Prädikatswein ladder.
This was one of the most favored winegrowing areas by the Romans, with archeological sites showing wine production dating back to the first century (Making it one of the first colonized and planted by the empire!) If you appreciate the delicate and ethereal qualities of Riesling, this is a sub-region to try! The soil here is deeper than other sub-regions and contains veins of iron but still featuring a base of slate like the rest of the Mosel. Examples from this area usually feature generous amounts of fruit, refreshing herbaciousness, high acidity and a slightly spicy finish.
Karlsmuhle wines in stock now:
Weingut Karlsmuhle Lorenzhofer Riesling Kabinett Trocken Mosel 2019 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
Karlsmuhle is based in the Ruwer and has an estate blessed with exceptionally steep vineyards and old vines. These factors considered it’s little surprise that his wines have won “Best in Germany” multiple times and have been mentioned by the likes of Terry Theise. In 4 years of competing, Karlsmuhle won 9 medals across multiple categories. Karlsmuhle is one of only a handful of producers in all of Germany that make Riesling at all levels of the Prädikatswein ladder.
This was one of the most favored winegrowing areas by the Romans, with archeological sites showing wine production dating back to the first century (Making it one of the first colonized and planted by the empire!) If you appreciate the delicate and ethereal qualities of Riesling, this is a sub-region to try! The soil here is deeper than other sub-regions and contains veins of iron but still featuring a base of slate like the rest of the Mosel. Examples from this area usually feature generous amounts of fruit, refreshing herbaciousness, high acidity and a slightly spicy finish.
Karlsmuhle wines in stock now:
Weingut Karlsmuhle Lorenzhofer Riesling Kabinett Trocken Mosel 2019 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Weingut Karlsmuhle Kaseler Nies’chen Riesling Auslese Lange Goldkapsel Mosel 2019 750ML ($44.95) $38 special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Collector’s Corner:
Dal Forno’s Benchmark Amarone
You’d be hard pressed to find a producer more synonymous with their region’s production than Dal Forno. When it comes to Valpolicella, the Dal Forno family does just that. For more than 30 years, Dal Forno has been producing deeply concentrated Valpolicella, Amarone and Recioto and is one of the major figures credited with bringing Valpolicella to the global stage.
Romano Dal Forno, the current winemaker/owner, took over the farm in 1983. Risking everything, he invested a large amount in 1990 to update the winery and refine Dal Forno’s process. The extremely bold flavor of the Valpolicella Superiore is a great example of Dal Forno’s commitment to perfection and their respect for traditional winemaking. Just short of an Amarone, it’s made entirely with fruit that has been dried, though for less time than that legally required for Amarone. A key to the Dal Forno style seems to be an incredibly low yield from their vineyard: each bottle of Valpolicella takes six vines worth of grapes to produce!
Dal Forno wines in stock now:
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2010 750ML ($349.95) $319 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Decanter 98 points “2010 is a more considered vintage compared to the outright opulence of 2009, but it’s no shrinking violet, especially in Dal Forno’s hands. This has a meaty nose with savoury hedgerow fruit , surprisingly open already. I had to put an exclamation mark after writing ‘elegant’ in my notes, as it seems incomprehensible that a wine of this magnitude could still have such balletic balance. It is broad and juicy, with chalky grip and clean, fresh acids followed by a hint of warmth on the long finish.”
James Suckling 97 points “Aromas of roses and other flowers with a deep fruit intensity. Full-bodied, dense and ultra-fine with a beautiful texture. Lots of new wood now but this will amalgamate with time into the wine. Fabulous potential. Drink or hold.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This was an excellent vintage in much of Italy, but unfortunately the weather was not as pleasant in this specific area of the Valpolicella. The season saw a lot of rain, and a good amount of fruit was cut and left on the ground because it could not be used. Considering these difficulties, Michele Dal Forno tells me he is “more than happy with the results.” I tasted the 2010 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta next to the 2009 vintage, and having these two wines side by side reinforces just how different they are. The 2010 vintages is sharper, more pointed and direct in comparison, and there is a tiny point of sourness on the close. This wine does not reach the same threshold for fullness, density or richness. It does come close. The wine’s residual sugar measures between 5 and 6 grams per liter, which is normal for this wine, and the bouquet is redolent of familiar black fruit, raisin and spice. However, the wine feels a bit stuck in its tracks at the moment and is evidently experiencing a shy phase in its evolution. It has retreated.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2011 750ML ($419.95) $369 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Decanter 99 points “The strongest wine in my selection, yet this magnificent Amarone’s alcohol is barely visible thanks to its astonishing depth, texture and sumptuousness. Pressed black fruits seep with fruit essences; smoke and cinders; herbal complexities; teasing floral notes, all engraved into a palate that expresses creamy finesse but without a trace of superfluous fat, heat or obviousness. Beautifully crafted, as dignified as any grand Barolo.”
Ian D’agata-Vinous 95+ points “Fully saturated ruby. Very deep, intense aromas of blackcurrant, plums macerated in alcohol, soy sauce, coffee and underbrush on the complex nose. Rich, dense and balanced, with nicely focused flavors of dark berries and aromatic herbs that have a noteworthy savory tang. The long finish features repeating hints of soy sauce, espresso and underbrush. Dal Forno’s is the recognized master of a uniquely powerful, ripe, and concentrated style of Amarone.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2012 750ML ($419.95) $319 special, 8 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “A decadent nose of treacle tart, chocolate, tar, tons of black fruit such as blackberries and mulberries and even ash and licorice. A dense, layered mouthfeel makes for a full-bodied palate that’s explosive yet somehow so refined and pretty all at the same time. The finish goes on and on. Incredible now, but better to wait for this giant to settle well into 2020.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta is a beautifully complete wine, even at this young stage in its life. You feel the youth of the wine in the tightness of the tannins and in the finely knit texture of its concentrated flavor profile. The big surprise is the wine’s fresh acidity that has been carefully safeguarded despite the heat of the vintage and the drying process so deftly executed at this landmark estate. The wine shows no sign of oxidation or evolution, not yet. There is intricate fruit layering with cherry, blackberry, spice and mesquite delivered with such precision, that level of detail defies the very bold and opulent essence of the wine. It has only just started its evolutionary journey.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2013 750ML ($419.95) $319 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta is my favorite wine in the retrospective, along with the amazing 2011, 2009 and 1996 vintages. This wine was released at the beginning of this year, and because Dal Forno skipped over the 2014 vintage, this is the only Amarone we will see for a while (until the highly anticipated 2015 is released). The 2013 vintage is characterized by a slightly more streamlined mouthfeel (which isn’t saying much given the baseline enormity of these wines) with carefully etched aromas of black cherry, rum cake, dark chocolate and toasted espresso. The 2013 vintage was balanced overall without the sudden heat waves we saw in the summers of 2011 and 2012. The grapes finished a slow and steady ripening process over an extended growing season. The effect is graceful and focused. Put this bottle aside in your cellar for the decades to come.”
Eric Guido-Vinous 97 points “The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta needs time – and a lot of it – to show all of its charms. But worry not, because you can already find pleasure in its dramatic display of rich plums and cherries dipped in mocha-infused chocolate with a dusting of cinnamon sugar and sweet tobacco. This is black as night yet truly purple in color, with depths of concentrated wild berry fruits contrasted by zesty acids that do an amazing job of lifting the expression. Grippy tannins saturate slowly, sneaking up on you and lasting throughout the impossibly long black hole of a finish, where notes of licorice, bitters and a coating of cocoa powder linger. Wow. The 2013 is built for the cellar and with tons of upside potential. If you dare to delve into one of these while young, I’d suggest opening your bottle a number of hours prior to enjoying. That said, this will be worth the wait.”
Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Valpolicella Superiore Veneto 2013 750ML ($119.95) $94.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Decanter 97 points “From one of the most iconic wineries in the Orientale, this is aged for two years in oak and a further three in bottle. A proper meditation wine, great with game, strong cheeses or a cigar. It has a huge nose of stewed red fruits, ethereal bramble forest fruits and blackberry jam. Generous, with spicy, bitter cherry-stone freshness. Full-bodied with a rich, intense, spicy undertone.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This is a terrific wine that stood out—and stood tall—despite the fact that it was tasted alongside some of Dal Forno’s most important vintages of the top-shelf Amarone. If that’s not a full-on recommendation, I don’t know what is. The 2013 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta oozes forth with thick concentration and an inky black color. The mouthfeel is thick and impenetrable, and the senses are treated to a long succession of black fruit, tar, spice, smoke, mesquite and barbecue flavors. The wine is full-bodied and very opulent, but it carries that massive intensity with grace and precision. This Valpolicella Superiore is very nicely done.”
Cs-6 Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Valpolicella Superiore Vertical Collection Veneto 11/12/13 ($699.95) $599 special, 1 case of 6 available
A Case Of Six 750ml Bottles
Mixed case: 2x 2011, 2x 2012, 2x 2013. No substitutions.
Reviews for 2011 vintage:
Decanter 96 points “This wine is a blend of 70 per cent Corvina with 20 per cent Rondinella and just 5 per cent each of Croatina and Oseleta. It’s deep black-red in colour, and is dark and forceful, sombre yet voluptuous in aroma: a harmonious weave of black chocolate, sloe and elderberry, with the years in oak bringing a cedary refinement. On the palate, it’s a vault of a wine: deep, dark and roomy, packed with earthy refinements and black-fruited echoes, both severe yet soft and enticing too. The tannins are ample yet fine-grained, the acidity delicate and sustaining. I wrote about the ‘crocodilian’ character of grand Veneto dried-fruit reds wine back in April, but the teeth are polished ivory here. This is horizon-altering ‘Valpolicella’ which would perform outstandingly in any Amarone tasting.”
Ian D’agata-Vinous 95+ points “Fully saturated ruby. Very deep, intense aromas of blackcurrant, plums macerated in alcohol, soy sauce, coffee and underbrush on the complex nose. Rich, dense and balanced, with nicely focused flavors of dark berries and aromatic herbs that have a noteworthy savory tang. The long finish features repeating hints of soy sauce, espresso and underbrush. Dal Forno’s is the recognized master of a uniquely powerful, ripe, and concentrated style of Amarone.”
Reviews for 2013 vintage:
Decanter 97 points “From one of the most iconic wineries in the Orientale, this is aged for two years in oak and a further three in bottle. A proper meditation wine, great with game, strong cheeses or a cigar. It has a huge nose of stewed red fruits, ethereal bramble forest fruits and blackberry jam. Generous, with spicy, bitter cherry-stone freshness. Full-bodied with a rich, intense, spicy undertone.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This is a terrific wine that stood out—and stood tall—despite the fact that it was tasted alongside some of Dal Forno’s most important vintages of the top-shelf Amarone. If that’s not a full-on recommendation, I don’t know what is. The 2013 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta oozes forth with thick concentration and an inky black color. The mouthfeel is thick and impenetrable, and the senses are treated to a long succession of black fruit, tar, spice, smoke, mesquite and barbecue flavors. The wine is full-bodied and very opulent, but it carries that massive intensity with grace and precision. This Valpolicella Superiore is very nicely done.”
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Vinopolis is an independent wine shop located in Portland, Oregon 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.
Thank you for reading and for your continuing support!
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.
Thank you for reading and for your continuing support!
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.