In This Newsletter:
New Week – New Arrivals
2020 Donnhoff Arrives Friday
Oregon
Lingua Franca Estate Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points “This superb Chardonnay is produced from the Estate vineyard in the Eola-Amity hills across the street from Seven Springs. 2019 produced a wine with vibrant acidity and a well-developed fruit with a lemon peel and passionfruit nose that is also informed by the full malo and long, reductive aging in cask (20% new). The wine has an elegant balance between the freshness of the vintage and a ripe, dense fruit character that will allow it to age for years to come. Drinking Window 2021 – 2031.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
St. Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($47.95) $35.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “A soft, friendly pinot with a solid line of fine tannins that run through the center palate. It’s medium-to full-bodied with bright, linear fruit and a delicious finish. Tight at the end. Drink after 2023.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ayres Perspective Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2020 750ML ($33.95) $26.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery note “[2019 vintage] A true snapshot of the Ribbon Ridge AVA! Our estate vines pair perfectly with neighboring vines from Armstrong and Lichtenwalter vineyards. Enjoy notes of boysenberry, cinnamon, and dried tobacco.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
France – Champagne
Lombard & Cie Premier Cru Extra Brut, Champagne NV 375ML ($24.95) $19.90 special, 24 half-bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “[Review for prior disgorgement.] A vibrant, balanced version, with a detailed mousse the texture of raw silk and finely meshed flavors of ripe cherry, lemon zest, chalky mineral and toast point. Disgorged February 2018. Drink now. 10,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.”
30% Pinot Noir (Sermier and Villedommange), 30% Pinot Meunier (Coulommes-la-Montagne), 40% Chardonnay (Cote des Blancs villages of Grauves & Vertus). Disgorged 12/2/2019. 4 g/L dosage. Aged for 3-4 years sur lattes.
This is the only listing in the USA today for the half-bottle!
Italy
La Fortuna Fortunello Rosso Toscana IGT 2019 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: Savory and light-bodied with classic aromas of red cherries.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cantina Terlano-Kellerei Terlan Quartz Terlano Sauvignon, Trentino-Alto Adige 2017 750ML ($69.95) $66 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Alto Adige Terlano Sauvignon Quarz is a wine that travels at two speeds. It is firm and compact on the one hand, but generous and large on the other. Those contrasting themes come from the youthful tension the wine emits now but also from the generous and texturally rich fiber that is associated with this warm and dry vintage. The Sauvignon Blanc grape shines brightly with varietal tones of passion fruit, summer peach and honeysuckle. This is a profoundly elegant expression from Northern Italy. Some 50,000 bottles were made.”
James Suckling 93 points “The varietal sauvignon aromas of pomelo, gooseberries and guava peel are evident straight away, and they are juxtaposed expertly with undertones of apricot pie and pie crust. Full-to medium-bodied and very textured, it can still confidently deliver driven acidity and lemony freshness.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Spain
Do Ferreiro Albarino Rias Baixas 2020 750ML ($39.95) $28.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
De Maison note “Highly regarded for crafting albariño, Do Ferreiro has become a reference point for the grape. They farm over 175 tiny plots of albariño by hand, all located in the Salnés subzone of Rías Baixas. This valley’s proximity to the ocean, ideal climate due to the natural protection by mountain ranges, and decomposed granitic soil have gained the reputation for being the best zone in Rías Baixas for growing profound albariño. The blend of these plots is what makes up Do Ferreiro Albariño. No other grape varieties or regions are blended into Do Ferreiro, as is common with many albariño wines. Fermentations are exclusively carried out by native yeasts.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Germany – Mosel
“Merkelbach’s wines are like the world before anyone wrote poems about it.” – Terry Theise
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Estate Riesling Trocken, Mosel 2020 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 8 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $21.99
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2020 750ML ($34.95) $29 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “The 2020er Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett AP 1 was made from fruit picked at 82° Oechsle and was fermented down to fruity-styled levels of residual sugar (44 g/l). The wine proves still slightly non-saying at first and only gradually reveals some discreet elements of white peach, apricot blossom, herbs, and fine spices. It is nicely lively yet also quite subtly creamy on the palate and leaves an absolutely gorgeous and light-footed feel in the long finish. The overall presence is that of a light Spätlese (certainly by Merkelbach standards) but this fruity-styled wine is no less beautiful. While enjoyable now, on its primary flavors, this Kabinett will gain significantly from bottle aging. 2030-2050.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese #4, Mosel 2020 750ML ($41.95) $33.50 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Review for AP 6.
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2020er Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Spätlese AP 6 was made from fruit picked at 89° Oechsle and was fermented down to barely sweet levels of residual sugar (60 g/l). It immediately captures one attention with some truly remarkable scents of strawberry, cassis, pear, vineyard peach, citrusy fruits, chalky minerals, and smoke. This simply screams of Würzgarten. The wine is subtle, playful, animating, light-footed, and yet packed with flavors on the palate. It leaves a gorgeous feel with a touch of Auslese creaminess but firm yet ripe zesty acidity comes through in the long and focused finish. The mouthwatering aftertaste makes you want to go for more. This wine gains significantly from airing and is really best left alone. 2030-2050.”
Importer note “This is superb. Mineral, archetypal, with rapturous fruit. Eternal youth in a bottle!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $37
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2020 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 94+ points “The 2020er Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese AP 2 was made from essentially clean fruit picked at 94° Oechsle and was fermented down to sweet levels of residual sugar (80 g/l). It offers a most engaging nose made of pear, white peach, smoke, strawberry, smoke, and fine spices. The wine is stunningly fresh, subtly creamy, and incredibly intense on the palate. Yet the flavors are precise, focused, impactful, and then again playful. The finish is focused, finely chiseled, and incredibly persistent. The aftertaste is as light as mineral water and yet so full of flavors. This is a truly remarkable Riesling in the making, with ample Schmelz but also an incredible raciness and lightness which more than reminds us of the glorious Auslese from the 1990s! This Auslese is a great success, and even has upside potential, it is that good! 2030-2060.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Carl Loewen Maximin Herrenberg 1896 (Grey Label) Riesling Feinherb, Mosel 2020 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 5 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 99 points “A moment of stillness in the midst of a crazy world. Take only a quick sip and you’ll understand rather little. But if you allow yourself to sink into this deep riesling chasm, you’ll discover an underworld of mineral fascination, married to super-ripe stone fruit. Enormously long and refined finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2023.”
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “The 1896, as it is simply referred to on the front dark-grey label (the reference to the vintage and the vineyard is left for the back label), is a just offdry wine (with 11 g/l of residual sugar) picked on century-old un-grafted vines (planted in 1896) in the Longuicher Maximiner Herrenberg, and was made using traditional winemaking methods dating back to the early 1900s. It immediately catches one’s attention through a refined yet very complex and layered nose of fine spices, aniseed herbs, pear, fresh pineapple, almond, greengage, and a dash of passion fruit. The wine is hugely delicate and creamy on the smooth and suave palate packed with flavors of almond, coconut milk, and fine spices. It leaves one with an immense sense of focus in the hugely long and gorgeously intense finish. A touch of off-dry sweetness still needs to integrate in the spicy and salty aftertaste. This is a magnificent and playful Riesling mixing delicacy with intensity and focus. 2024-2040.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut Carl Loewen Longuicher Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2020 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 8 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “Very juicy with tons of peach, apricot and guava. However, this also has so much minty and tarragon freshness, the balance of fruit and mineral acidity joyfully spot-on. Drink or hold.”
Germany – Pfalz
Von Winning Riesling Trocken, Pfalz 2020 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Limestone, Loam, & Red Sandstone. Fermentation & Elevage: Stainless Steel.”
Von Winning Ozyetra Riesling Trocken, Pfalz 2019 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 5 bottles in stock now
No scores for the 2019 vintage. 2018 review provides information on the 2019 and is below:
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 97-99 points “Named after the caviar from Ossetra, the 2018 Ozyetra is a selection of the best barrels of the Forster Pechstein (don’t ask me why Attmann started this with the 2017 vintage except for hedonistic and monetary reasons) that ages on the lees for two years… Stephan Attmann has bottled a terrific selection of 2019 Rieslings, and I am sure it is the best series he has ever presented since his beginning here in 2008. Kirchenstück, Pechstein, Jesuitengarten and Ungeheuer are highlights in this lineup but are also some of the finest Rieslings produced in all Germany last year. However, there is one wine outshining all the others: Ozyetra, the very best part of the Pechstein GG.”
Skurnik Imports note “Ozyetra is a selection of spectacular barrels from the Pechstein. Similar to MarMar, this wine is incredibly complex and concentrated, with great tension and length. Noble reduction, grilled lemons, fine wood. Fermentation & Elevage: Spontanenous fermentation in 500L barrels, left on the gross lees for 24 months. Pechstein (Forst) Vineyard.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Von Winning ‘500’ Sauvignon Blanc, Pfalz 2019 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Importer note “‘500’ = Selection of the best 500 liter barrels and sourced from vineyards with a vine density of 9,500 plants per hectare.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $86.99
2020 Donnhoff
Arriving Friday, January 21st
“…the 2020s produced not only another excellent series of Grosses Gewächs but, above all, wonderfully clear, precise, finely fruity and spicy Kabinett and Spätlese Rieslings, as well as some fine Auslese wines.” –Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
Interested in a style of Riesling that combines the elegance and minerality of the Mosel and the heft of the Rheingau? In spite of being one of the smallest growing districts in the country, the new generation of producers has jockeyed international attention from stalwarts like the Mosel. The Nahe is one of the most compelling growing regions in the entire country for a multitude of factors.
Easily the favorite district amongst the staff, these are some of the most “Bulletproof” wines you’ll ever find. It goes without saying that Dönnhoff is the King of the Nahe, with every single one of their wines being a work of art. Consistently delivering quality with every vintage, 2020 is shaping up to be no different. While not as powerful as the historic 2019 vintage, 2020 is being lauded as having more elegance and lift. This speaks well to long-term cellaring opportunity in addition to current enjoyment potential. If the success of our 2019 Germany Riesling is any indication, you’d better act quickly if you’re looking to experience the vintage.
2020 Donnhoff Wines Arriving Friday, January 21st:
Dry
Weingut Donnhoff Estate Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2020 750ML ($26.95) $20.90 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points “Predominantly from the Oberhausen Kieselberg and Felsenberg, the 2020 Riesling Trocken opens with a clear, ripe, elegant and flinty bouquet of ripe Riesling fruit. Pure, linear and fresh on the palate, this is an intense and vital dry Riesling with stunning mineral expression, grip and salty length. A fabulous wine for small pockets. 11.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 92 points “Very fresh, sleek and straight with a slew of summer-fruit and citrus aromas and a super-refreshing, crisp finish. Mostly from little-known vineyard sites in Oberhausen. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink now. Screw cap.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $26
Weingut Donnhoff Felsenberg Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe2020 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 98 points “If you are a terroir fundamentalist, then this enormous depth of smoky and wild-herb character will light your fire, but otherwise approach with caution. With the second and third sip you feel the attractive, grapefruity side of the wine. Then comes the paradox. There is also a touch of grapefruit-pith bitterness at the radically mineral finish, and this adds to the excitement. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2020 Felsenberg GG is deep, intense and complex on the pure and elegant, well-defined and slightly flinty nose. Pure, intense and juicy on the palate, this is a crystalline, refined and salty Felsenberg with great terroir expression and length, even though the wine is still puristic or even ascetic in the finish. Not as charmingly fruity as Crusius’s interpretation but with the same length and tension. 13% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021 and again six weeks later in Wiesbaden during the GG tastings.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $79
Weingut Donnhoff Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe 2020 750ML ($99.95) $85 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 99 points “Such a wide spectrum of super fine yellow-fruit aromas and a floral note that you struggle to take it in all at once. So sensual and silky that descriptors like “full” and “light” become redundant. Then the finish literally takes your breath and leaves you breathless for a long time. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “From slate and porphyry soils, the Norheim 2020 Dellchen Riesling GG is clear, pure, fresh and flinty on the nose that reveals a ripe and concentrated seed-fruit aroma. Full-bodied, intense and salty on the palate, this is a pure, rich, elegant and powerful but refined Dellchen with a long, intense and sustainable finish. A great wine that just needs some years to shine in full brightness. 13% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $94
Weingut Donnhoff Kreuznacher Kahlenberg Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2020 750ML ($44.95) $36 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 94 points “This is the right wine for anyone who thinks that dry riesling is always austere, Very generous and juicy with chalky character that neatly counterpoints the full, citrusy fruit. Long finish that’s stony, but far from tart. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2020 Kreuznacher Kahlenberg Riesling trocken is from a steep vineyard on loess-loam soils with gravel and quartzite. Pure and fresh yet also fruity on the nose, with dusty lemon and wet earth and stone aromas, this is a medium-bodied, round and piquant dry Riesling with juicy fruit, fine grip, fine tannins and grapefruit bitters on the finish. 12.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Weingut Donnhoff Roxheimer Hollenpfad Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2020 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 95 points “Intensely herbal and tightly wound, this tastes like a GG, thanks to the firm and complex structure. Long, ultra-mineral and herbal finish. This needs some time to unwind, but has great potential. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drinkable now, but best from 2022.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “From an open, south-facing vineyard on red sandstone, the 2020 Roxheimer Höllenpfad Riesling trocken is pure but ripe and intense on the nose that reveals ripe and stewed apple aromas with a fine phenolic spiciness and reductive richness. Juicy-piquant and salty-crystalline on the palate, this is an intense yet very elegant and still slightly astringent dry Riesling with fine tannic grip and good tension. 12.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Off-Dry to Sweet
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2020 750ML ($74.95) $69 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 100 points “Hit me with a flower! This starts very delicately with an incredibly subtle nose of fresh and dried flowers. Then comes the enormously concentrated yet totally filigree palate, which dazzles the senses with its thousand nuances and almost endless, super-silky finish. Decades of aging potential. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2020 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Spätlese is magic. Pure, refined and aristocratic on the flinty, slate-dominated and slightly herbal nose that is populated by crushed stones and tiny mint leaves, while the bright fruit is perfectly interwoven with terroir-driven flavors. Racy, juicy-piquant and intense on the palate, this is a noble, highly elegant and complex Hermannshöhle with a long, intense and complex yet again very refined and floating finish. A genius of a Spätlese where everything is perfectly interwoven to an unspeakable beauty. “What is it that is so beautiful? That is the magic!,” says Helmuth Dönnhoff, describing his philosophy of beauty. 8.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Weingut Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2020 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “Wonderful white-peach, mandarin and orange-blossom nose that also has something dark and “earthy” behind all the charm. So much depth and energy that it makes your bones rattle! Staggering intensity at the vibrant, lemony finish. The grape sweetness is there, but way in the background. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2020 Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese is super clear, refined and fresh on the rather coolish but fruit-intense and elegant, slightly flinty nose. Salty-piquant and highly stimulating on the palate, this is a gorgeous, very elegant and juicy Riesling with a crystalline, laser-sharp acidity that is highly refined as well and carries this Spätlese to a long and intense finish. 8.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 2020 750ML ($109.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 375ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 99 points “What a nose! This smells like essence of peach with a delicate, floral-honey overtone. Seems to vibrate on the palate, thanks to the staggering minerality and totally vibrant acidity. Extremely complex and energetic finish that goes on and on. Very limited production. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2020 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Auslese is another beauty of the domain that has probably bottled one of the finest vintages in history with the 2020s. The nose is pure, fresh and concentrated, with ripe fruit and very fine raisin and citric aromas that are intertwined with sugared grapefruit and crushed slate notes. Mouth-filling, round and delicate on the palate, this is a rich and concentrated yet filigreed and seemingly fragile Auslese that reveals a firm and sustainable mineral structure on the finish that stays on the palate for minutes. Another fantastic, persistently crystalline and salty Auslese from the Hermannshöhle. 8% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
2020 Donnhoff Wines In Stock Now:
Weingut Donnhoff Estate Riesling, Nahe 2020 750ML ($26.95) $20.90 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points “Sourced in Oberhausen and Niederhausen (so from weathered slate and volcanic stones), the Dönnhoff estate 2020 Riesling is pure and refreshingly mineral on the nose that shows clear, bright and spicy fruit with crunchy slate aromas. Virtually a classic Kabinett, this is a round, only gently sweet Riesling with clear lemon fruit, a silky texture and very elegant, ripe and piquant acidity. This is a gorgeously fruity and stimulating Riesling to start with after a long night if you don’t have fresh fruit on the table. “We have to be careful that it doesn’t get too good for the price range,” says Helmut Dönnhoff, and he is right, because this is a Nahe classic or, as Dönnhoff puts it, “This is the light, pure optimism, a children’s choir. That is joie de vivre.” 10.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 92 points “So effusive thanks to the cornucopia of white peach and yellow apple, but also floral notes. Super fresh and juicy on the medium-bodied palate and the brilliant finish is barely off-dry. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink now. Screw cap.”
Weingut Donnhoff Kreuznacher Krotenpfuhl Riesling Kabinett, Nahe 2020 750ML ($34.95) $25.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2020 Kreuznacher Krötenpfuhl Riesling Kabinett is bright and finely stony on the clear and elegant nose with its ripe, almost tropical fruit notes. Lush and round on the palate, this is a mouth-filling Kabinett with delicate acidity and a stimulatingly salty finish and very good length. A wine to keep. 9% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 93 points “Lovely fruit-salad and fresh-mint nose. Juicy and joyful, this has so much freshness, the hint of green apple at the crisp finish accentuating this. Good length. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink now. Screw cap.”
Weingut Donnhoff Oberhauser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett, Nahe 2020 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “Dönnhoff’s 2020 Oberhäuser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett from a south-east facing site in the side valley of the Nahe opens with a very ripe, bright fruit aroma. The palate is round and lush as well as structured and driven by the fundamental minerality of this gorgeous Dönnhoff classic. 9% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 94 points “Some people think only the Mosel can produce stunning Kabinetts, but this is pristine and pure, so racy and uplifiting. You barely feel the natural grape sweetness, but its a vital element of this wine. Super-clean finish. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold. Screw cap.”
Shop the full selection of Donnhoff wines on our web store now!
New Grapelive Review for Yann Chave
Yann Chave Crozes-Hermitage (Classique), Rhone 2019 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 35 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 93 points “My very first quality Crozes-Hermitage was this Yann Chave’s basic no oak version and it really opened my eyes to Northern Rhone Syrah. I quickly became a huge fan of this region and still am today. It is one of my go to areas for great value in Northern Rhone Syrah with many delicious options like this one, plus the wines of the other Chave (Jean-Louis), Yves Cuilleron, Alain Graillot, Saint Cosme and Vincent Paris to name a few. So, coming back to Yann’s Crozes always brings a smile and a delight to the senses, especially in vintages like this dark purple/ruby 2019 with its gorgeous and pure bouquet and palate of blue fruits, violets, earth and spice. The full bodied mouth feel is vinous and shows boysenberry, blueberry, damson plum and creme de cassis along with camphor, iron, fresh cut violets, anise and cracked peppercorns accents in a youthfully firm, but fruit forward and joyously expressive wine. Yann took over from his father, Bernard Chave, and released his first solo effort in 2001, when the name of the Domaine also changed to Yann Chave. He instantly became a star and gained a cult like following with Syrah enthusiasts. While at that time, mostly what we saw coming from Crozes was pretty rustic and lean, but Chave’s wines had a richness and depth that set them apart and pushed the region to make higher quality stuff. He also has a tiny section of vines on the legendary Hermitage hill, though those bottlings are unicorn wine and almost impossible to find, while this one is a bit easier to get and a superb value.
“Yann Chave’s The traditional (Classique) Crozes cuvée, 100% de-stemmed Syrah, is produced from vines grown around the three villages of Mercurol, La Roche de Glun and Pont de l’Isère with large round pebbles over loess soils. There are several plots of Syrah used here and they were planted at different times, but the winery says the average age of vines is close to 20 years. The farming of all of the Yann Chave vineyards is done with organic methods and the leaves of the canopy are trimmed around the fruit clusters for optimal exposure to sunlight. Grapes are harvested by hand and these picks are late to give ripe density to the wines. As with Yann’s white wines, he does not use selected yeasts, relying on indigenous yeasts to ferment his reds. Grapes as mentioned, are de-stemmed, and Chave then allows the vinification temperature to warm up gradually from 20° to 30°C, which he carefully maintains to achieve optimal extraction and coax out beautiful aromatics from the Syrah. Vatting or maceration lasts about three weeks on average, with pump-overs done twice a day, and Chave always tries to wet the whole surface of the cap. The aging is very short on this Crozes-Hermitage lasting only a few months and is exclusively in tank to preserve the fresh fruit character and avoiding any wood influence. This inky dark purple/black Crozes will appeal to Northern Rhone fans certainly, though it will equally impress even New World wine drinkers and it gets better and better in the glass, it is an exceptional vintage to stock up on and have with a robust winter meal.”
Shop our selections of Yann Chave wines in stock now on our webstore!
Jean-Paul Thevenet Morgon Vieilles Vignes, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($39.95) $35.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 92 points “The 2019 Thevenet Old Vine Morgon is vibrant and zingy with loads of natural acidity, mineral notes and subtle fruit density, highlight the lively personality of the vintage that reminds me of 2010 and 2014, or a more classic year, but as it opens it turns on the charm and gets much more rounded and exciting with dark fruits bursting from the glass with air. Thevenet just makes one wine and only 2,000 cases per year are made, making this a treat, especially with the demand for top notch Gamay these days. The Morgon Vieilles Vignes, which shows a delicate floral note, pecan husk, crushed raspberry and earthy elements on the nose, reveals zesty currant, plum, strawberry and citrusy fruits on the taut medium bodied palate. The old vine concentration shines especially when you give this wine time to awaken and it gets more entertaining and pretty, losing some of its rustic sharpness with food. There is more of a reserved quality here and a savory edginess that time with resolve, so if you do lack the patience it deserves (like me), I suggest decanting and a leisurely meal to allow all the best comes out here. The Thevenet’s employ long fermentations in cement cuve, with 100% whole clusters, for 15-25 days at low temperatures to allow for longest skin contact possible, delivering depth, extract and firm tannins. Made with all indigenous yeasts, with punch downs and pressing uniquely only after primary fermentation is complete and then it is aged on the lees for about 8 months in used Burgundy barrels. This is pure and raw in style, but the fruit ultimately leads to pleasure here and it is vivid terroir driven example of the Morgon cru.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $41
Love Beaujolais from Morgon? Shop our selections from Daniel Bouland, Desvignes, Jean Foillard, Grange Cochard, Guy Breton, and Maison Remy Passot on our webstore now!
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $88
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 6 magnums in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “Shows lots of black cherries, cranberry tea, caramelized orange peel, roasted herbs and citrus peel. Full-bodied with ripe and quite round tannins that frame layers of cherries. Bright and fresh, yet rich and long at the same time. The sangiovese character really springs out of the glass. Drink in 2020.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $185 for the magnum
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $74.50 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 1.5L ($219.95) $169 special, 5 magnums in stock now
Decanter 98 points “Paolo de Marchi’s ‘study in Sangiovese’ is a selection of the vintage’s finest grapes from Isole e Olena’s oldest vineyards, high up in Chianti Classico’s western sector of Barberino Tavarnelle. Harvested in mid-October, it is a captivating tangle of earth, spring blossom, coffee, tobacco and cedar. Perfumed lavender and violet lift the generous dark fruit and the brilliantly tactile powdery texture lends further dimension. This reaches great depths while simultaneously soaring effortlessly to heady heights. Positively succulent and moreish on the finish.”
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2016 Cepparello is dense, dark and also very closed in on itself. Those qualities bode well for the future, but readers will have to be patient, as the 2016 is going to need at least a few years to come into its own. Black cherry, plum, lavender, spice and new leather gradually open up in the glass, but the 2016 is not ready to show all of its cards. This fruit was brought in during the second week of October, which is pretty much optimal at Isole e Olena. The 2016 spent 20 months in French oak, with a bit less than 30% new oak, and a few months in cask prior to bottling. An explosion of floral and spice notes punctuates the super-refined finish. The 2016 is shaping up to be epic. Don’t miss it!”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 97 points “The beautiful Isole e Olena 2016 Cepparello is a gorgeous and precise expression of Sangiovese. This is one of the icon wines of the vintage that shows a naked and transparent portrait of the grape on the one hand, with the complexity of the vintage and its territory on the other. Cepparello is like a crystal ball into the heart and soul of Sangiovese, Tuscany’s mighty red grape. It is fermented in conical oak casks and later aged 20 months in 95% French and 5% American oak, of which only one-third is new wood. The wine delivers ample structure and contouring, with a firm and silky consistency at its core. Some 42,000 bottles were made. This wine should age over the better part of the next 20 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $93
Isole e Olena Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $199 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Isole e Olena Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany 2013 1.5L ($699.95) Was $449, Now $399 special, 4 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “The 2013 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is breathtaking. Beautifully ripe, deep and expressive, the 2013 has it all: deep fruit, stunning aromatic presence and tremendous structure. Black cherry, pomegranate, rose petal, mint and lavender all meld together in this super-expressive, resonant Chianti Classico. An absolutely killer wine, the Gran Selezione is a fabulous, contemporary expression of Chianti Classico at its very finest. Drops of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah round out the blend. Paolo De Marchi gave the 2013 a year in barrique and second year in cask.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Dark, saturated and rich, the 2013 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione delivers savory tones of spice and smoke that are folded into dark fruit, prune and dried blackberry. Despite the darkness of the bouquet, this wine shows tartness and freshness in terms of its flavor profile. There is a lot of Sangiovese typicity here, thanks to the delineated character of those wild berry aromas and the crispness of the wine’s natural acidity. In fact, the wine is mostly composed of Sangiovese, although very small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot are added to the blend. A mere 2,400 bottles were produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $257 for the 750ml
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Arriving in Early February from Isole e Olena:
Isole e Olena Collezione Privata Chardonnay Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special, only 34 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2019 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a real achievement, especially in its natural ability to showcase varietal purity and textural importance in equal measure. The wine is fermented in oak and spends some time on the fine lees with frequent stirring. Aromas of poached pear, honey and stone fruit segue to a glossy note of latex or natural rubber that I personally find very attractive. The bouquet shows very light toast with some sweet nuttiness and almond paste. Drying mineral tones add a touch of linearity and extra elegance on the close.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $55
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, only 21 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “A pure expression of Sangiovese, the 2018 Cepparello is a beautiful expression that speaks to the classic and most exemplary side of this versatile and deeply expressive grape. This vintage is especially bright and ethereal with a true sense of luminosity and clarity that radiates from both the wine’s appearance and its fragrant bouquet. Tart cherry and cassis segue to balsam herb and wild violets. To the palate, the wine shows muscle and determination with sweet tannins and impressive depth of favor. Cepparello remains true to its unique identity in this vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $97
New Week – New Arrivals
2020 Donnhoff Arrives Friday
New Grapelive Review for Yann Chave
New Grapelive Review for Thevenet Morgon VV
Isole e Olena:
Tuscan Excellence
New Offers Arriving in February
New Grapelive Review for Thevenet Morgon VV
Isole e Olena:
Tuscan Excellence
New Offers Arriving in February
New Week – New Arrivals
Oregon
Lingua Franca Estate Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points “This superb Chardonnay is produced from the Estate vineyard in the Eola-Amity hills across the street from Seven Springs. 2019 produced a wine with vibrant acidity and a well-developed fruit with a lemon peel and passionfruit nose that is also informed by the full malo and long, reductive aging in cask (20% new). The wine has an elegant balance between the freshness of the vintage and a ripe, dense fruit character that will allow it to age for years to come. Drinking Window 2021 – 2031.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
St. Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($47.95) $35.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “A soft, friendly pinot with a solid line of fine tannins that run through the center palate. It’s medium-to full-bodied with bright, linear fruit and a delicious finish. Tight at the end. Drink after 2023.”
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Ayres Perspective Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2020 750ML ($33.95) $26.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery note “[2019 vintage] A true snapshot of the Ribbon Ridge AVA! Our estate vines pair perfectly with neighboring vines from Armstrong and Lichtenwalter vineyards. Enjoy notes of boysenberry, cinnamon, and dried tobacco.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
France – Champagne
Lombard & Cie Premier Cru Extra Brut, Champagne NV 375ML ($24.95) $19.90 special, 24 half-bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “[Review for prior disgorgement.] A vibrant, balanced version, with a detailed mousse the texture of raw silk and finely meshed flavors of ripe cherry, lemon zest, chalky mineral and toast point. Disgorged February 2018. Drink now. 10,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.”
30% Pinot Noir (Sermier and Villedommange), 30% Pinot Meunier (Coulommes-la-Montagne), 40% Chardonnay (Cote des Blancs villages of Grauves & Vertus). Disgorged 12/2/2019. 4 g/L dosage. Aged for 3-4 years sur lattes.
This is the only listing in the USA today for the half-bottle!
Italy
La Fortuna Fortunello Rosso Toscana IGT 2019 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: Savory and light-bodied with classic aromas of red cherries.
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Cantina Terlano-Kellerei Terlan Quartz Terlano Sauvignon, Trentino-Alto Adige 2017 750ML ($69.95) $66 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Alto Adige Terlano Sauvignon Quarz is a wine that travels at two speeds. It is firm and compact on the one hand, but generous and large on the other. Those contrasting themes come from the youthful tension the wine emits now but also from the generous and texturally rich fiber that is associated with this warm and dry vintage. The Sauvignon Blanc grape shines brightly with varietal tones of passion fruit, summer peach and honeysuckle. This is a profoundly elegant expression from Northern Italy. Some 50,000 bottles were made.”
James Suckling 93 points “The varietal sauvignon aromas of pomelo, gooseberries and guava peel are evident straight away, and they are juxtaposed expertly with undertones of apricot pie and pie crust. Full-to medium-bodied and very textured, it can still confidently deliver driven acidity and lemony freshness.”
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Spain
Do Ferreiro Albarino Rias Baixas 2020 750ML ($39.95) $28.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
De Maison note “Highly regarded for crafting albariño, Do Ferreiro has become a reference point for the grape. They farm over 175 tiny plots of albariño by hand, all located in the Salnés subzone of Rías Baixas. This valley’s proximity to the ocean, ideal climate due to the natural protection by mountain ranges, and decomposed granitic soil have gained the reputation for being the best zone in Rías Baixas for growing profound albariño. The blend of these plots is what makes up Do Ferreiro Albariño. No other grape varieties or regions are blended into Do Ferreiro, as is common with many albariño wines. Fermentations are exclusively carried out by native yeasts.”
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Germany – Mosel
“Merkelbach’s wines are like the world before anyone wrote poems about it.” – Terry Theise
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Estate Riesling Trocken, Mosel 2020 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 8 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $21.99
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2020 750ML ($34.95) $29 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “The 2020er Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett AP 1 was made from fruit picked at 82° Oechsle and was fermented down to fruity-styled levels of residual sugar (44 g/l). The wine proves still slightly non-saying at first and only gradually reveals some discreet elements of white peach, apricot blossom, herbs, and fine spices. It is nicely lively yet also quite subtly creamy on the palate and leaves an absolutely gorgeous and light-footed feel in the long finish. The overall presence is that of a light Spätlese (certainly by Merkelbach standards) but this fruity-styled wine is no less beautiful. While enjoyable now, on its primary flavors, this Kabinett will gain significantly from bottle aging. 2030-2050.”
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Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese #4, Mosel 2020 750ML ($41.95) $33.50 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Review for AP 6.
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2020er Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Spätlese AP 6 was made from fruit picked at 89° Oechsle and was fermented down to barely sweet levels of residual sugar (60 g/l). It immediately captures one attention with some truly remarkable scents of strawberry, cassis, pear, vineyard peach, citrusy fruits, chalky minerals, and smoke. This simply screams of Würzgarten. The wine is subtle, playful, animating, light-footed, and yet packed with flavors on the palate. It leaves a gorgeous feel with a touch of Auslese creaminess but firm yet ripe zesty acidity comes through in the long and focused finish. The mouthwatering aftertaste makes you want to go for more. This wine gains significantly from airing and is really best left alone. 2030-2050.”
Importer note “This is superb. Mineral, archetypal, with rapturous fruit. Eternal youth in a bottle!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $37
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2020 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 94+ points “The 2020er Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese AP 2 was made from essentially clean fruit picked at 94° Oechsle and was fermented down to sweet levels of residual sugar (80 g/l). It offers a most engaging nose made of pear, white peach, smoke, strawberry, smoke, and fine spices. The wine is stunningly fresh, subtly creamy, and incredibly intense on the palate. Yet the flavors are precise, focused, impactful, and then again playful. The finish is focused, finely chiseled, and incredibly persistent. The aftertaste is as light as mineral water and yet so full of flavors. This is a truly remarkable Riesling in the making, with ample Schmelz but also an incredible raciness and lightness which more than reminds us of the glorious Auslese from the 1990s! This Auslese is a great success, and even has upside potential, it is that good! 2030-2060.”
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Carl Loewen Maximin Herrenberg 1896 (Grey Label) Riesling Feinherb, Mosel 2020 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 5 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 99 points “A moment of stillness in the midst of a crazy world. Take only a quick sip and you’ll understand rather little. But if you allow yourself to sink into this deep riesling chasm, you’ll discover an underworld of mineral fascination, married to super-ripe stone fruit. Enormously long and refined finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2023.”
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “The 1896, as it is simply referred to on the front dark-grey label (the reference to the vintage and the vineyard is left for the back label), is a just offdry wine (with 11 g/l of residual sugar) picked on century-old un-grafted vines (planted in 1896) in the Longuicher Maximiner Herrenberg, and was made using traditional winemaking methods dating back to the early 1900s. It immediately catches one’s attention through a refined yet very complex and layered nose of fine spices, aniseed herbs, pear, fresh pineapple, almond, greengage, and a dash of passion fruit. The wine is hugely delicate and creamy on the smooth and suave palate packed with flavors of almond, coconut milk, and fine spices. It leaves one with an immense sense of focus in the hugely long and gorgeously intense finish. A touch of off-dry sweetness still needs to integrate in the spicy and salty aftertaste. This is a magnificent and playful Riesling mixing delicacy with intensity and focus. 2024-2040.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut Carl Loewen Longuicher Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2020 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 8 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “Very juicy with tons of peach, apricot and guava. However, this also has so much minty and tarragon freshness, the balance of fruit and mineral acidity joyfully spot-on. Drink or hold.”
Germany – Pfalz
Von Winning Riesling Trocken, Pfalz 2020 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Limestone, Loam, & Red Sandstone. Fermentation & Elevage: Stainless Steel.”
Von Winning Ozyetra Riesling Trocken, Pfalz 2019 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 5 bottles in stock now
No scores for the 2019 vintage. 2018 review provides information on the 2019 and is below:
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 97-99 points “Named after the caviar from Ossetra, the 2018 Ozyetra is a selection of the best barrels of the Forster Pechstein (don’t ask me why Attmann started this with the 2017 vintage except for hedonistic and monetary reasons) that ages on the lees for two years… Stephan Attmann has bottled a terrific selection of 2019 Rieslings, and I am sure it is the best series he has ever presented since his beginning here in 2008. Kirchenstück, Pechstein, Jesuitengarten and Ungeheuer are highlights in this lineup but are also some of the finest Rieslings produced in all Germany last year. However, there is one wine outshining all the others: Ozyetra, the very best part of the Pechstein GG.”
Skurnik Imports note “Ozyetra is a selection of spectacular barrels from the Pechstein. Similar to MarMar, this wine is incredibly complex and concentrated, with great tension and length. Noble reduction, grilled lemons, fine wood. Fermentation & Elevage: Spontanenous fermentation in 500L barrels, left on the gross lees for 24 months. Pechstein (Forst) Vineyard.”
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Von Winning ‘500’ Sauvignon Blanc, Pfalz 2019 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Importer note “‘500’ = Selection of the best 500 liter barrels and sourced from vineyards with a vine density of 9,500 plants per hectare.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $86.99
2020 Donnhoff
Arriving Friday, January 21st
“…the 2020s produced not only another excellent series of Grosses Gewächs but, above all, wonderfully clear, precise, finely fruity and spicy Kabinett and Spätlese Rieslings, as well as some fine Auslese wines.” –Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
Interested in a style of Riesling that combines the elegance and minerality of the Mosel and the heft of the Rheingau? In spite of being one of the smallest growing districts in the country, the new generation of producers has jockeyed international attention from stalwarts like the Mosel. The Nahe is one of the most compelling growing regions in the entire country for a multitude of factors.
Easily the favorite district amongst the staff, these are some of the most “Bulletproof” wines you’ll ever find. It goes without saying that Dönnhoff is the King of the Nahe, with every single one of their wines being a work of art. Consistently delivering quality with every vintage, 2020 is shaping up to be no different. While not as powerful as the historic 2019 vintage, 2020 is being lauded as having more elegance and lift. This speaks well to long-term cellaring opportunity in addition to current enjoyment potential. If the success of our 2019 Germany Riesling is any indication, you’d better act quickly if you’re looking to experience the vintage.
2020 Donnhoff Wines Arriving Friday, January 21st:
Dry
Weingut Donnhoff Estate Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2020 750ML ($26.95) $20.90 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points “Predominantly from the Oberhausen Kieselberg and Felsenberg, the 2020 Riesling Trocken opens with a clear, ripe, elegant and flinty bouquet of ripe Riesling fruit. Pure, linear and fresh on the palate, this is an intense and vital dry Riesling with stunning mineral expression, grip and salty length. A fabulous wine for small pockets. 11.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 92 points “Very fresh, sleek and straight with a slew of summer-fruit and citrus aromas and a super-refreshing, crisp finish. Mostly from little-known vineyard sites in Oberhausen. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink now. Screw cap.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $26
Weingut Donnhoff Felsenberg Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe2020 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 98 points “If you are a terroir fundamentalist, then this enormous depth of smoky and wild-herb character will light your fire, but otherwise approach with caution. With the second and third sip you feel the attractive, grapefruity side of the wine. Then comes the paradox. There is also a touch of grapefruit-pith bitterness at the radically mineral finish, and this adds to the excitement. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2020 Felsenberg GG is deep, intense and complex on the pure and elegant, well-defined and slightly flinty nose. Pure, intense and juicy on the palate, this is a crystalline, refined and salty Felsenberg with great terroir expression and length, even though the wine is still puristic or even ascetic in the finish. Not as charmingly fruity as Crusius’s interpretation but with the same length and tension. 13% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021 and again six weeks later in Wiesbaden during the GG tastings.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $79
Weingut Donnhoff Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe 2020 750ML ($99.95) $85 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 99 points “Such a wide spectrum of super fine yellow-fruit aromas and a floral note that you struggle to take it in all at once. So sensual and silky that descriptors like “full” and “light” become redundant. Then the finish literally takes your breath and leaves you breathless for a long time. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “From slate and porphyry soils, the Norheim 2020 Dellchen Riesling GG is clear, pure, fresh and flinty on the nose that reveals a ripe and concentrated seed-fruit aroma. Full-bodied, intense and salty on the palate, this is a pure, rich, elegant and powerful but refined Dellchen with a long, intense and sustainable finish. A great wine that just needs some years to shine in full brightness. 13% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $94
Weingut Donnhoff Kreuznacher Kahlenberg Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2020 750ML ($44.95) $36 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 94 points “This is the right wine for anyone who thinks that dry riesling is always austere, Very generous and juicy with chalky character that neatly counterpoints the full, citrusy fruit. Long finish that’s stony, but far from tart. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2020 Kreuznacher Kahlenberg Riesling trocken is from a steep vineyard on loess-loam soils with gravel and quartzite. Pure and fresh yet also fruity on the nose, with dusty lemon and wet earth and stone aromas, this is a medium-bodied, round and piquant dry Riesling with juicy fruit, fine grip, fine tannins and grapefruit bitters on the finish. 12.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Weingut Donnhoff Roxheimer Hollenpfad Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2020 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 95 points “Intensely herbal and tightly wound, this tastes like a GG, thanks to the firm and complex structure. Long, ultra-mineral and herbal finish. This needs some time to unwind, but has great potential. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drinkable now, but best from 2022.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “From an open, south-facing vineyard on red sandstone, the 2020 Roxheimer Höllenpfad Riesling trocken is pure but ripe and intense on the nose that reveals ripe and stewed apple aromas with a fine phenolic spiciness and reductive richness. Juicy-piquant and salty-crystalline on the palate, this is an intense yet very elegant and still slightly astringent dry Riesling with fine tannic grip and good tension. 12.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Off-Dry to Sweet
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2020 750ML ($74.95) $69 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 100 points “Hit me with a flower! This starts very delicately with an incredibly subtle nose of fresh and dried flowers. Then comes the enormously concentrated yet totally filigree palate, which dazzles the senses with its thousand nuances and almost endless, super-silky finish. Decades of aging potential. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2020 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Spätlese is magic. Pure, refined and aristocratic on the flinty, slate-dominated and slightly herbal nose that is populated by crushed stones and tiny mint leaves, while the bright fruit is perfectly interwoven with terroir-driven flavors. Racy, juicy-piquant and intense on the palate, this is a noble, highly elegant and complex Hermannshöhle with a long, intense and complex yet again very refined and floating finish. A genius of a Spätlese where everything is perfectly interwoven to an unspeakable beauty. “What is it that is so beautiful? That is the magic!,” says Helmuth Dönnhoff, describing his philosophy of beauty. 8.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Weingut Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2020 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “Wonderful white-peach, mandarin and orange-blossom nose that also has something dark and “earthy” behind all the charm. So much depth and energy that it makes your bones rattle! Staggering intensity at the vibrant, lemony finish. The grape sweetness is there, but way in the background. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2020 Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese is super clear, refined and fresh on the rather coolish but fruit-intense and elegant, slightly flinty nose. Salty-piquant and highly stimulating on the palate, this is a gorgeous, very elegant and juicy Riesling with a crystalline, laser-sharp acidity that is highly refined as well and carries this Spätlese to a long and intense finish. 8.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 2020 750ML ($109.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 375ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 99 points “What a nose! This smells like essence of peach with a delicate, floral-honey overtone. Seems to vibrate on the palate, thanks to the staggering minerality and totally vibrant acidity. Extremely complex and energetic finish that goes on and on. Very limited production. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2020 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Auslese is another beauty of the domain that has probably bottled one of the finest vintages in history with the 2020s. The nose is pure, fresh and concentrated, with ripe fruit and very fine raisin and citric aromas that are intertwined with sugared grapefruit and crushed slate notes. Mouth-filling, round and delicate on the palate, this is a rich and concentrated yet filigreed and seemingly fragile Auslese that reveals a firm and sustainable mineral structure on the finish that stays on the palate for minutes. Another fantastic, persistently crystalline and salty Auslese from the Hermannshöhle. 8% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
2020 Donnhoff Wines In Stock Now:
Weingut Donnhoff Estate Riesling, Nahe 2020 750ML ($26.95) $20.90 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points “Sourced in Oberhausen and Niederhausen (so from weathered slate and volcanic stones), the Dönnhoff estate 2020 Riesling is pure and refreshingly mineral on the nose that shows clear, bright and spicy fruit with crunchy slate aromas. Virtually a classic Kabinett, this is a round, only gently sweet Riesling with clear lemon fruit, a silky texture and very elegant, ripe and piquant acidity. This is a gorgeously fruity and stimulating Riesling to start with after a long night if you don’t have fresh fruit on the table. “We have to be careful that it doesn’t get too good for the price range,” says Helmut Dönnhoff, and he is right, because this is a Nahe classic or, as Dönnhoff puts it, “This is the light, pure optimism, a children’s choir. That is joie de vivre.” 10.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 92 points “So effusive thanks to the cornucopia of white peach and yellow apple, but also floral notes. Super fresh and juicy on the medium-bodied palate and the brilliant finish is barely off-dry. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink now. Screw cap.”
Weingut Donnhoff Kreuznacher Krotenpfuhl Riesling Kabinett, Nahe 2020 750ML ($34.95) $25.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2020 Kreuznacher Krötenpfuhl Riesling Kabinett is bright and finely stony on the clear and elegant nose with its ripe, almost tropical fruit notes. Lush and round on the palate, this is a mouth-filling Kabinett with delicate acidity and a stimulatingly salty finish and very good length. A wine to keep. 9% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 93 points “Lovely fruit-salad and fresh-mint nose. Juicy and joyful, this has so much freshness, the hint of green apple at the crisp finish accentuating this. Good length. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink now. Screw cap.”
Weingut Donnhoff Oberhauser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett, Nahe 2020 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “Dönnhoff’s 2020 Oberhäuser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett from a south-east facing site in the side valley of the Nahe opens with a very ripe, bright fruit aroma. The palate is round and lush as well as structured and driven by the fundamental minerality of this gorgeous Dönnhoff classic. 9% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.”
James Suckling 94 points “Some people think only the Mosel can produce stunning Kabinetts, but this is pristine and pure, so racy and uplifiting. You barely feel the natural grape sweetness, but its a vital element of this wine. Super-clean finish. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold. Screw cap.”
Shop the full selection of Donnhoff wines on our web store now!
New Grapelive Review for Yann Chave
Yann Chave Crozes-Hermitage (Classique), Rhone 2019 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 35 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 93 points “My very first quality Crozes-Hermitage was this Yann Chave’s basic no oak version and it really opened my eyes to Northern Rhone Syrah. I quickly became a huge fan of this region and still am today. It is one of my go to areas for great value in Northern Rhone Syrah with many delicious options like this one, plus the wines of the other Chave (Jean-Louis), Yves Cuilleron, Alain Graillot, Saint Cosme and Vincent Paris to name a few. So, coming back to Yann’s Crozes always brings a smile and a delight to the senses, especially in vintages like this dark purple/ruby 2019 with its gorgeous and pure bouquet and palate of blue fruits, violets, earth and spice. The full bodied mouth feel is vinous and shows boysenberry, blueberry, damson plum and creme de cassis along with camphor, iron, fresh cut violets, anise and cracked peppercorns accents in a youthfully firm, but fruit forward and joyously expressive wine. Yann took over from his father, Bernard Chave, and released his first solo effort in 2001, when the name of the Domaine also changed to Yann Chave. He instantly became a star and gained a cult like following with Syrah enthusiasts. While at that time, mostly what we saw coming from Crozes was pretty rustic and lean, but Chave’s wines had a richness and depth that set them apart and pushed the region to make higher quality stuff. He also has a tiny section of vines on the legendary Hermitage hill, though those bottlings are unicorn wine and almost impossible to find, while this one is a bit easier to get and a superb value.
“Yann Chave’s The traditional (Classique) Crozes cuvée, 100% de-stemmed Syrah, is produced from vines grown around the three villages of Mercurol, La Roche de Glun and Pont de l’Isère with large round pebbles over loess soils. There are several plots of Syrah used here and they were planted at different times, but the winery says the average age of vines is close to 20 years. The farming of all of the Yann Chave vineyards is done with organic methods and the leaves of the canopy are trimmed around the fruit clusters for optimal exposure to sunlight. Grapes are harvested by hand and these picks are late to give ripe density to the wines. As with Yann’s white wines, he does not use selected yeasts, relying on indigenous yeasts to ferment his reds. Grapes as mentioned, are de-stemmed, and Chave then allows the vinification temperature to warm up gradually from 20° to 30°C, which he carefully maintains to achieve optimal extraction and coax out beautiful aromatics from the Syrah. Vatting or maceration lasts about three weeks on average, with pump-overs done twice a day, and Chave always tries to wet the whole surface of the cap. The aging is very short on this Crozes-Hermitage lasting only a few months and is exclusively in tank to preserve the fresh fruit character and avoiding any wood influence. This inky dark purple/black Crozes will appeal to Northern Rhone fans certainly, though it will equally impress even New World wine drinkers and it gets better and better in the glass, it is an exceptional vintage to stock up on and have with a robust winter meal.”
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New Grapelive Review for Thevenet Morgon VV
Jean-Paul Thevenet Morgon Vieilles Vignes, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($39.95) $35.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 92 points “The 2019 Thevenet Old Vine Morgon is vibrant and zingy with loads of natural acidity, mineral notes and subtle fruit density, highlight the lively personality of the vintage that reminds me of 2010 and 2014, or a more classic year, but as it opens it turns on the charm and gets much more rounded and exciting with dark fruits bursting from the glass with air. Thevenet just makes one wine and only 2,000 cases per year are made, making this a treat, especially with the demand for top notch Gamay these days. The Morgon Vieilles Vignes, which shows a delicate floral note, pecan husk, crushed raspberry and earthy elements on the nose, reveals zesty currant, plum, strawberry and citrusy fruits on the taut medium bodied palate. The old vine concentration shines especially when you give this wine time to awaken and it gets more entertaining and pretty, losing some of its rustic sharpness with food. There is more of a reserved quality here and a savory edginess that time with resolve, so if you do lack the patience it deserves (like me), I suggest decanting and a leisurely meal to allow all the best comes out here. The Thevenet’s employ long fermentations in cement cuve, with 100% whole clusters, for 15-25 days at low temperatures to allow for longest skin contact possible, delivering depth, extract and firm tannins. Made with all indigenous yeasts, with punch downs and pressing uniquely only after primary fermentation is complete and then it is aged on the lees for about 8 months in used Burgundy barrels. This is pure and raw in style, but the fruit ultimately leads to pleasure here and it is vivid terroir driven example of the Morgon cru.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $41
Love Beaujolais from Morgon? Shop our selections from Daniel Bouland, Desvignes, Jean Foillard, Grange Cochard, Guy Breton, and Maison Remy Passot on our webstore now!
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10 AM – 6 PM Daily
Local mandates require properly worn masks for all regardless of vaccination status.
We also offer Curbside Pickup & Shipping
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Isole e Olena:
Tuscan Excellence
Tuscan Excellence
No winery symbolizes the modern quality of Tuscany like Isole e Olena. Since the arrival of Paolo de Marchi in 1976, Isole e Olena has been a quality leader in the region. Stylistically, Isole e Olena occupies a place that is at once traditional and modern. Their flagship Cepparello is firmly rooted in the primacy of Sangiovese and the idea of Tuscan typicity. Elegance wedded to power, this shows the nuance and bright fruit you’d expect from a classic wine of the region combined with the density and complexity of top tier, noble wines.
Highlights In Stock Now:
Isole e Olena Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($99.95) $66 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is among the finest Cabernet Sauvignons in Italy. High altitude sites in Barberino yield a distinctly mid-weight, elegant, savory Cabernet that is all about reserve. Dark plum, espresso, licorice, menthol and sage start to emerge with a bit of air, but the 2016 is a wine that demands cellaring. Over the years, I have had the good fortune to taste every vintage of the Isole e Olena Cabernet. It is one of the great under the radar wines of Tuscany. The 2016 takes its place with the very finest editions.”
Highlights In Stock Now:
Isole e Olena Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($99.95) $66 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is among the finest Cabernet Sauvignons in Italy. High altitude sites in Barberino yield a distinctly mid-weight, elegant, savory Cabernet that is all about reserve. Dark plum, espresso, licorice, menthol and sage start to emerge with a bit of air, but the 2016 is a wine that demands cellaring. Over the years, I have had the good fortune to taste every vintage of the Isole e Olena Cabernet. It is one of the great under the radar wines of Tuscany. The 2016 takes its place with the very finest editions.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $88
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 6 magnums in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “Shows lots of black cherries, cranberry tea, caramelized orange peel, roasted herbs and citrus peel. Full-bodied with ripe and quite round tannins that frame layers of cherries. Bright and fresh, yet rich and long at the same time. The sangiovese character really springs out of the glass. Drink in 2020.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $185 for the magnum
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $74.50 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 1.5L ($219.95) $169 special, 5 magnums in stock now
Decanter 98 points “Paolo de Marchi’s ‘study in Sangiovese’ is a selection of the vintage’s finest grapes from Isole e Olena’s oldest vineyards, high up in Chianti Classico’s western sector of Barberino Tavarnelle. Harvested in mid-October, it is a captivating tangle of earth, spring blossom, coffee, tobacco and cedar. Perfumed lavender and violet lift the generous dark fruit and the brilliantly tactile powdery texture lends further dimension. This reaches great depths while simultaneously soaring effortlessly to heady heights. Positively succulent and moreish on the finish.”
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2016 Cepparello is dense, dark and also very closed in on itself. Those qualities bode well for the future, but readers will have to be patient, as the 2016 is going to need at least a few years to come into its own. Black cherry, plum, lavender, spice and new leather gradually open up in the glass, but the 2016 is not ready to show all of its cards. This fruit was brought in during the second week of October, which is pretty much optimal at Isole e Olena. The 2016 spent 20 months in French oak, with a bit less than 30% new oak, and a few months in cask prior to bottling. An explosion of floral and spice notes punctuates the super-refined finish. The 2016 is shaping up to be epic. Don’t miss it!”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 97 points “The beautiful Isole e Olena 2016 Cepparello is a gorgeous and precise expression of Sangiovese. This is one of the icon wines of the vintage that shows a naked and transparent portrait of the grape on the one hand, with the complexity of the vintage and its territory on the other. Cepparello is like a crystal ball into the heart and soul of Sangiovese, Tuscany’s mighty red grape. It is fermented in conical oak casks and later aged 20 months in 95% French and 5% American oak, of which only one-third is new wood. The wine delivers ample structure and contouring, with a firm and silky consistency at its core. Some 42,000 bottles were made. This wine should age over the better part of the next 20 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $93
Isole e Olena Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $199 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Isole e Olena Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany 2013 1.5L ($699.95) Was $449, Now $399 special, 4 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “The 2013 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is breathtaking. Beautifully ripe, deep and expressive, the 2013 has it all: deep fruit, stunning aromatic presence and tremendous structure. Black cherry, pomegranate, rose petal, mint and lavender all meld together in this super-expressive, resonant Chianti Classico. An absolutely killer wine, the Gran Selezione is a fabulous, contemporary expression of Chianti Classico at its very finest. Drops of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah round out the blend. Paolo De Marchi gave the 2013 a year in barrique and second year in cask.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Dark, saturated and rich, the 2013 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione delivers savory tones of spice and smoke that are folded into dark fruit, prune and dried blackberry. Despite the darkness of the bouquet, this wine shows tartness and freshness in terms of its flavor profile. There is a lot of Sangiovese typicity here, thanks to the delineated character of those wild berry aromas and the crispness of the wine’s natural acidity. In fact, the wine is mostly composed of Sangiovese, although very small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot are added to the blend. A mere 2,400 bottles were produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $257 for the 750ml
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Arriving in Early February from Isole e Olena:
Isole e Olena Collezione Privata Chardonnay Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special, only 34 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2019 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a real achievement, especially in its natural ability to showcase varietal purity and textural importance in equal measure. The wine is fermented in oak and spends some time on the fine lees with frequent stirring. Aromas of poached pear, honey and stone fruit segue to a glossy note of latex or natural rubber that I personally find very attractive. The bouquet shows very light toast with some sweet nuttiness and almond paste. Drying mineral tones add a touch of linearity and extra elegance on the close.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $55
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, only 21 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “A pure expression of Sangiovese, the 2018 Cepparello is a beautiful expression that speaks to the classic and most exemplary side of this versatile and deeply expressive grape. This vintage is especially bright and ethereal with a true sense of luminosity and clarity that radiates from both the wine’s appearance and its fragrant bouquet. Tart cherry and cassis segue to balsam herb and wild violets. To the palate, the wine shows muscle and determination with sweet tannins and impressive depth of favor. Cepparello remains true to its unique identity in this vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $97
Thank you from the team at Vinopolis!
Be well & drink well.