In This Newsletter:
Just in:
Friday Arrivals
Bring the Green:
St. Patrick’s Day selections
Eternally Delicious Madeira
Sink into Soufrandiere’s Chardonnay
The Muse of Montalcino:
Sassetti
Collector’s Corner: 1990 Pomerol
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Just in:
Friday Arrivals
Friday Arrivals
France- Champagne
Delamotte Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne NV 375ML ($44.95) $38 special, 20 half-bottles in stock now
Delamotte Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne NV 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 24 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “The latest rendition of Delamotte’s NV Brut Blanc de Blancs is drinking very well out of the gates, offering up aromas of crisp orchard fruit and citrus zest mingled with hints of fresh bread and wet stones. Medium to full-bodied, pillowy and precise, with bright acids and chalky grip, concluding with a dry finish, this is a classy, seamless wine that will offer a broad drinking window.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “A crisp blanc de blancs in an aperitif style, with a racy streak of acidity creating a mouthwatering frame for tangerine, glazed apricot, lemon thyme and minerally chalk and smoke notes as they ride the lacy mousse. Drink now. –AN”
Importer note “Villages : Le Mesnil, Avize, Oger. Vin de base : 2016 (15% vins 2015 & 2014). FML faite. Vieillissement sur lies : 48 mois. Dégorgement : Avril 2021. Dosage : 7g/l.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Delamotte Brut Champagne NV 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 24 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 90 points “Pillowy and charming, the latest rendition of Delamotte’s NV Brut offers up attractive aromas of orchard fruit, fresh bread and citrus oil. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant, with a pretty pinpoint mousse and lively balancing acids, it’s drinking well out of the gates but will also develop gracefully for a few years in the cellar.”
Wine Spectator 90 points “A creamy Champagne with a delicate mousse, featuring a subtle range of poached raspberry, lemon curd, oyster shell and almond paste flavors. Sleek and mouthwatering. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Drink now. –AN”
Importer note “Assemblage : 60% chardonnay – 35% pinot noir – 5% pinot meunier (MAJ Septembre 2021). Villages : Le Mesnil, Avize, Oger, Cramant, Ambonnay, Tours sur Marne, Vallée de la Marne. Vin de base : 2017. FML faite. Vieillissement sur lies : 36 mois. Dégorgement : Juin 2021. Dosage : 8g/l.”
Salon Cuvee ‘S’ Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne, 2012 750ML ($1499.95) $1199 special, only 2 bottles in stock now
Decanter 99 points “The Salon 2012 has scintillating aromatic brilliance and purity with seductive scents of white fruit, citrus zest and spring flowers capped by a touch of spice. With some air, pastry-like notes add to its complex yet elegant fragrance, which remains essentially citrussy in character. On the palate, it reverberates with kinetic energy coursing through its crystalline and elongated structure, making this vintage Champagne seem a bit atypical for Salon. Indeed, this edition is supremely elegant and subtle to a degree that surpasses those of other recent vintages. Salon 2012 is a racy thoroughbred that will go the distance without effort, a telltale sign being its chalk-infused yet airborne finish. In time, it will in all likelihood merit the ultimate accolade of a 100-point score. Dosage: 6g/L. Disgorged: March 2021. Drinking Window 2021 – 2050.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 98+ points “Back in 2014, Salon’s president Didier Depond was quoted in the press as saying that “since 2008, there has been no genuinely great vintage in Champagne” and that a 2012 from Salon wouldn’t be released. But the just-released 2012 Brut Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil shows that he had good reason to change his mind, as to my palate this is, after the 2008, the finest Salon produced this millennium. Unwinding in the glass with notes of citrus oil, wet stones, freshly baked bread, white currants and oyster shell, it’s full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a tightly wound core of fruit, racy acids and an elegant pinpoint mousse. Concluding with a long and resonant finish, this is a structured and powerful Salon that’s a lot more incisive than, for example, the 2002 at the same stage, but which also carries more muscle and substance than a leaner vintage such as 2007. For readers that have balked at the pricing of the magnum-only 2008, the 2012 isn’t far off the latter’s level in quality, and will presumably be distributed more conventionally.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2012 Salon is absolutely gorgeous. It offers a beguiling mix of radiance and energy that seems to capture a little bit of elements of some of its older siblings. The expression of fruit is radiant and quite overt, but without reaching the tropical exuberance of the 2006. In shape, the 2012 recalls the mid-weight style of 2007 with the freshness of 2008, but not quite the youthful austerity of that wine. If that sounds like an appealing combination, well it is. The 2012 Salon is all harmony and class.”
France- Chablis
Jean-Claude Bessin Chablis La Fourchaume La Piece au Comte Chablis Premier Cru 2019 ($79.95) $69 special, 7 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume La Pièce Au Comte is brilliant, mingling notes of crisp green orchard fruit and Meyer lemon with hints of pastry cream, dried white flowers and oyster shell. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, it’s immensely concentrated and multidimensional, with racy acids and an abundance of chalky structuring extract.”
Jean-Claude Bessin La Foret Chablis Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “The 2018 Chablis La Forêt 1er Cru has an earthy and smoky bouquet, light touches of wild mint emerging with time in the glass. The palate is well balanced, offering grapefruit, mandarin and bitter lemon notes on the entry, then slightly honeyed toward the finish, but maintaining admirable tension throughout. Maybe it just lacks the persistence of Bessin’s Montmains or Fourchaume, yet this remains a very commendable La Forêt.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Valmur Chablis Grand Cru 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Decanter 95 points “The domaine’s holdings extend over 2ha and are located next to Les Clos, with a west and north-west orientation. Combining vines of different ages and a mixture of stainless steel and oaked components, this is a wine that will reward patience. Vanilla spice, white flowers and subtle iodine notes combine beautifully on the palate here with salinity providing freshness on the finish. Drinking Window 2021 – 2028.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 94 points “The 2018 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru is lucid silver in hue. The bouquet is not as immediate as Bessin’s other 2018, taking its time to unfold, revealing citrus peel, oyster shell and dew-speckled green apple aromas that are beautifully defined. The palate is succinctly balanced, effortlessly carrying the weight of this Valmur. Wonderful intensity on the finish, yet linear and steely. You might deduce this to come from a much cooler growing season than it does. Top class – a Chablis that totally transcends the vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Jean-Claude Bessin Valmur Chablis Grand Cru 2019 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 9 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2019 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur is another superb cuvée from Bessin. Wafting from the glass with notes of Anjou pear, crisp stone fruit, white flowers, pastry cream and wet stones. Full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it’s textural and chiseled, with huge depth at the core and a long, resonant finish. As is often the case, this is one of the finest wines of the vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Jean-Claude Bessin Chablis Vieilles Vignes Burgundy 2019 750ML ($44.95) $33 special, 11 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2019 Chablis Vieilles Vignes unwinds in the glass with notes of crisp green apple, pastry cream, white flowers and lime zest. Medium to full-bodied, chiseled and precise, with lively acids and chalky extract, it concludes with a saline finish.”
Bring the Green:
St. Patrick’s Day selections
St. Patrick’s Day selections
Just in time for St.Patrick’s Day we’ve compiled a list of wines representing a variety of styles and regions. Just in case you forgot to wear some green we’ve at least got a green label for you!
St.Patrick’s Day Selections:
Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon St Helena 2015 750ML ($319.95) $269 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 98+ points “Inky purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard gives up notes of blueberry compote, preserved plums and ripe blackberries with touches of incense, dried Mediterranean herbs, menthol and aniseed plus a waft of mossy bark. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is very fine and wonderfully elegant, with incredibly ripe, silt-like tannins and just enough freshness to support the black and blue fruit layers, finishing on a lingering exotic spice note. This beauty should age very well indeed. 353 cases were made.”
James Suckling 96 points “Blueberries, orange rind, pressed violets and lavender. Very savory on the palate, showing notes of licorice and citrus rind. Polished and fine-grained tannins, a fine, tangible streak of acidity and a very long, blue-fruited finish. The structure is so refined, presenting all the riper flavors in a compact, layered package. Better in 2021.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is powerful, deep and explosive. Graphite, smoke, leather and tobacco open up, but only with reluctance. As always, the interplay of fruit richness and structured at Las Piedras can yield thrilling, powerful wine endowed with tons of personality. That is very much the case here.”
Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2016 750ML ($49.95) $44.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2016 750ML ($289.95) $255 special, (That’s only $42.50 per bottle!)
Case-12 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2016 750ML ($499.95) $479 special, (that’s only $39.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 96 points “Ripe, sweet cherry and raspberry fruit are accented by floral, mineral and wild herbs in this alluring red. A backbone of dense, dusty tannins provides support, and the ripe fruit returns on the savory finish. Excellent length. Best from 2023 through 2043. 15,000 cases made, 8,500 cases imported. — BS”
Sandhi Zuni Chardonnay Santa Barbara County 2019 750ML ($34.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case- Sandhi Zuni Chardonnay Santa Barbara County 2019 750ML ($399.95) $239 special, (that’s only $19.92/bottle!)
Winery note “If you’ve ever sat at San Francisco’s iconic Zuni Café with a plate of oysters in front of you while you wait for the iconic whole roast chicken, you may have had a glass or two of this collaboration between longtime friends Rajat Parr of Sandhi and Zuni wine director Thierry Lovato. The wine is a barrel selection from some of Sandhi’s iconic Sta. Rita Hills sites, (think Mt. Carmel, Sanford & Benedict) with enough own-rooted, 1973 Wente selection Bien Nacido Chardonnay blended in to warrant a Santa Barbara County designation.”
St.Patrick’s Day Selections:
Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon St Helena 2015 750ML ($319.95) $269 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 98+ points “Inky purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard gives up notes of blueberry compote, preserved plums and ripe blackberries with touches of incense, dried Mediterranean herbs, menthol and aniseed plus a waft of mossy bark. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is very fine and wonderfully elegant, with incredibly ripe, silt-like tannins and just enough freshness to support the black and blue fruit layers, finishing on a lingering exotic spice note. This beauty should age very well indeed. 353 cases were made.”
James Suckling 96 points “Blueberries, orange rind, pressed violets and lavender. Very savory on the palate, showing notes of licorice and citrus rind. Polished and fine-grained tannins, a fine, tangible streak of acidity and a very long, blue-fruited finish. The structure is so refined, presenting all the riper flavors in a compact, layered package. Better in 2021.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is powerful, deep and explosive. Graphite, smoke, leather and tobacco open up, but only with reluctance. As always, the interplay of fruit richness and structured at Las Piedras can yield thrilling, powerful wine endowed with tons of personality. That is very much the case here.”
Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2016 750ML ($49.95) $44.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2016 750ML ($289.95) $255 special, (That’s only $42.50 per bottle!)
Case-12 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2016 750ML ($499.95) $479 special, (that’s only $39.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 96 points “Ripe, sweet cherry and raspberry fruit are accented by floral, mineral and wild herbs in this alluring red. A backbone of dense, dusty tannins provides support, and the ripe fruit returns on the savory finish. Excellent length. Best from 2023 through 2043. 15,000 cases made, 8,500 cases imported. — BS”
Sandhi Zuni Chardonnay Santa Barbara County 2019 750ML ($34.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case- Sandhi Zuni Chardonnay Santa Barbara County 2019 750ML ($399.95) $239 special, (that’s only $19.92/bottle!)
Winery note “If you’ve ever sat at San Francisco’s iconic Zuni Café with a plate of oysters in front of you while you wait for the iconic whole roast chicken, you may have had a glass or two of this collaboration between longtime friends Rajat Parr of Sandhi and Zuni wine director Thierry Lovato. The wine is a barrel selection from some of Sandhi’s iconic Sta. Rita Hills sites, (think Mt. Carmel, Sanford & Benedict) with enough own-rooted, 1973 Wente selection Bien Nacido Chardonnay blended in to warrant a Santa Barbara County designation.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Crowley Rose Willamette Valley 2020 750ML ($24.95) $17.70 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Winery note “This wine opens with a bloom of apricot blossoms and crunchy pear aromas. The palate is focused and fresh, layered with stone fruits and mouthwatering salinity. We are astonished and pleased with the complexity this wine reveals – not your everyday rosé!”
VinopolNote: From the Four Winds and Tukwilla Vineyards, this is a top WV rosé every year. The Four Winds fruit is 100% Pommard clone from an own-rooted block dedicated to rosé production, it has a depth, richness, and complexity that will reward all year round. Full malo. Fully delicious.
Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon. Dry farmed.
Ayres Estate Rose of Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2020 750ML ($19.95) $17 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Vinopol Note: Steely, this is a bright and refreshing local rose with a creamy mouthfeel and elegant profile. Notes of raspberries, fresh lemon zest, rhubarb, and a fun hint of caraway on the finish. Always a favorite among the staff, winemaker Brad McLeroy makes this from a single block within the estate vineyard specially reserved for rose production each year. Bravo!
Region: Ribbon Ridge, Willamette Valley, Oregon.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine de la Berangeraie ‘Tu Bois Coa’ Rose IGP Cotes du Lot 2019 750ML ($17.95) $9 special
Importer note “Malbec rose. Sustainable. Ripe cherry flavors with fresh strawberry and raspberry. Medium body with a long finish.”
Winery note: 100% Malbec. Very aromatic (raspberry, wild strawberry, blueberry), with a pronounced pomegranate color. The palate is rich, vinous, and unctuous. Drink as an aperitif, or with BBQ and exotic fruits.
Region: IGP Cotes du Lot, South West France, France.
Meinklang Gruner Veltliner Burgenland 2020 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Region: Neusiedler See (Late Neusiedl). Grape: Grüner Veltliner. Vineyard Size: 70 hectares. Soil: sandy loam, rocky topsoil. Farming: biodynamic. Harvest: by hand. Winemaking: direct press, spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel. Aging: 4 months in stainless steel on lees.”
Stamnaki Moschofilero Peloponnese 2020 750ML ($18.95) $14.40 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Distributor note “The grower is Denthis, a winery in the Pelopenese. They make the wine for Eklektikon’s (the importer) private label “Stamnaki.” 100% organic Moschofilero, hand picked. Direct pressed and fermented in stainless steel. Fined with bentonite clay and sterile filtered.”
Winery note “Lemon flowers and rose petals, sharp acidity & length.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Isole e Olena Collezione Privata Chardonnay Toscana IGT Tuscany 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 21 bottles in stock now
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!
Cameron Winery Giuliano White Oregon 2020 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 93 points ” The light and crisp Giuliano, an Italian inspired white blend, is from Cameron’s Dundee Hills estate vineyards, Clos Electrique and White Oak. It is a delicious wine, one that has become one of my favorites, when I can get it of course. All of these Cameroni (the Italian style wines) are highly sought after by fans of the legendary John Paul, famous for his Pinots, but who is an Italian wine fanatic himself, so they sell out fast, especially this one. Highly refreshing, slightly effervescent from the capture of CO2 during tank fermentation and with a lovely white flowers bouquet the latest Giuliano delivers a zingy palate of racy citrus, green apple, bosc pear and tart quince fruits, saline infused wet rock, sweet and sour herbs, spearmint and lingering mineral tones. This is a wine to enjoy with oysters, sushi and or linguine pasta with Manila claims. It is jazzy stuff that gets more interesting with food and is rather more than the sum of its parts. The nose, the fruit and tanginess mixed with the stony dimension and orange blossoms add up to a very compelling white wine that gains texture and spice with air highlighting the volcanic Jory soils. Those that like the whites and or field blends of Northeastern Italy will find this wine faithful if not a riveting new world example, full of personality with no pretense and with a raw transparency that is wonderfully addictive…”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Ever wondered what people drank outside of wine production zones prior to modern transportation? As you can expect, wines do not respond well to extended periods of heat, cold and churning which is exactly what would happen if you attempted to transport wines via boat in previous centuries. The solution for this was found in the Madeira Islands, a colony of Portugal that was a “rest stop” of sorts for ships bound for the New World. It was discovered that the combination of fortification with the yawing, rolling and pitching of the boats added tremendous character to the wines, as well as rendering them largely “immortal” in the bottle. The Founding Fathers were especially enamored with them most notably Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.
We have sourced bottlings with this historical providence in mind, with the Rare Wine Company partnering with one of the oldest houses on the island to provide historically accurate representations of the Madeira of yesteryear. Should you prefer your fortified wines on the drier side or delightfully sweet, we have a bottling for everyone’s preference. Pairing wise these are famously amazing with mushroom based dishes, wild game and European style cheeses.
In stock now:
The Rare Wine Co. Historic Series Baltimore Rainwater Special Reserve Madeira NV ($59.95) $49 special, 2 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “The latest release of the NV Baltimore Rainwater (Rare Wine Company) is showing well, mingling aromas of ripe peach, candle wax and dried fruits with hints of walnuts. Medium to full-bodied, ample and enveloping, it’s fleshy and elegantly satiny, with a lively core of fruit, nicely integrated sweetness and a nicely defined finish. This bottling, based on young Verdelho, is crafted to evoke the Rainwater Madeiras of the 19th century—wines that were especially prized in the city of Baltimore.”
The Rare Wine Co. Historic Series New York Malmsey Special Reserve Madeira NV ($59.95) $49 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Medium amber. Powerfully scented bouquet combines cherry compote, cola, molasses, pipe tobacco and brown sugar. Lush and expansive in the mouth, offering sweet pit fruit and orange marmalade flavors and a deeper note of espresso. Clings tenaciously on the finish, which leaves notes of bitter cherry and candied flowers behind.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “Rich and exotic, the NV New York Malmsey (Rare Wine Company) mingles aromas of gingerbread and cloves with notions of Christmas pudding, molasses and figs. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, it’s fleshy and muscular, with lively balancing acids and a long, lusty and generously spiced finish. This would work beautifully with rich desserts.”
The Rare Wine Co. Historic Series Savannah Verdelho Special Reserve Madeira NV ($59.95) $49 special, 1 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “The NV Savannah Verdhelo Special Reserve (Rare Wine Company) is lovely, wafting from the glass with inviting aromas of fruitcake, warm spices, bitter orange, blanched almonds and dried flowers. Full-bodied, satiny and enveloping, with racy acids, a fleshy core of fruit, nicely integrated sweetness and an off-dry finish, it concludes with a penetrating and mouthwateringly saline finish.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Medium amber with a green rim. Aromas of burnt orange, tobacco, toffee and herbs, with a hint of potpourri adding an exotic component. Broader and deeper than the Charleston, offering sappy orange marmalade, chestnut honey and toffee flavors underscored by tangy acidity. Shows a sweet, nutty quality on the smoky, gently spicy finish. I like this wine’s heft and thrust.”
Belem’s Doce Madeira NV 500ML ($19.95) $14 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Dessert style Madeira
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Henriques & Henriques 10 Years Old Verdelho Madeira 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special, 1 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “Serious stuff. Despite a slightly singed nose, it exhibits complex flavors of honey, smoke, pear and wet pine needles. Rich, with an underlying tang and vibrance that follows through to the long walnut and salt-tang finish. A wine for meditation. Drink now.”
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “A medium-dry style made from the Verdlho grape, this wine is fruity while always shot through with Madeira’s trademark acidity. Nuts, spice, old wood and an intense juiciness make this a good aperitif. Drink now.”
Sink into Soufrandiere’s Chardonnay
Looking for meticulously farmed Chardonnay that walks the line between the Côte-d’Or and Chablis? Check out our offerings from Soufrandiere, a biodynamic producer based in the village of Vinzelles in the Mâcon. Located in Southern Burgundy, the wines are classified by their climat or vineyard and bottled accordingly, with all production taking place in neutral oak cask.
Some of the best offerings are sourced from the Les Quarts climat, which features exceptionally old vines over 80 years old and the perfect mix of red clay and limestone soils. While demonstrating the shyness of youth that’s found in current release Burgundy, there’s still a full spectrum of orchard fruit, white flowers, lemon oil and saline minerality. The exceptionally long finish and high acid make this something to cellar or decant prior to serving, with additional notes of grapefruit pith, Pomelo rind and Cara Cara orange emerging with patience.
Soufrandiere wines arriving later this spring:
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Longeays Maconnais 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Les Longeays opens in the glass with notes of pear, almonds, white flowers, mint and citrus zest. Medium to full-bodied and textural but tightly wound, with a sweet core of fruit and lively acids, it has turned out well.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat “Les Longeays”, the most precocious climat of the domaine according to the Brets, comes from the middle of the slope on four-metre deep clay soils. This offers enticing orchard fruit on the nose mixed with Vervane tea, honeysuckle and jasmine scents. The palate is tensile on its opening, full of energy that counterbalances the richness that comes through on the finish. There is just a hint of white chocolate lingering on the aftertaste. Excellent.”
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Fuisse Climat au Vignerais Maconnais 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Fuissé Climat “Au Vignerais” has the most Zen-like bouquet that demands the most coaxing from the glass, eventually revealing green apple and crushed rock scents. The nose is very well defined. The palate is taut and fresh, quite saline and tensile, building in concentration towards a very harmonious, orange pith and pear-tinged finish. This is a lovely, cerebral Pouilly-Fuissé.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Aromas of pear, citrus zest, toasted almonds and vanilla pod introduce the 2019 Pouilly-Fuissé Au Vignerais, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and ample wine that’s lively and saline. Seamless and elegant, it’s already showing well.”
Soufrandiere in stock now:
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts Maconnais 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 10 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92+ points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Les Quarts unwinds in the glass with notes of clear honey, white flowers and fresh bread. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, it’s vibrant and youthfully reserved, showing promise for the cellar.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “From the domaine’s oldest vines, the 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat “Les Quarts” has a brisk, lemon verbena, crushed rock and subtle blackcurrant leaf scented nose that is beautifully defined. The palate is taut and linear on the entry, a fine bead of acidity here, slightly waxy in texture towards the finish with hints of pear and peach skin lingering on the aftertaste. Drink now and over the next decade.”
Burghound 90-93 points “Outstanding. Restrained and decidedly cool aromas grudgingly exhibit notes of citrus, white and yellow orchard fruit and pretty spice whiffs. There is a bit less concentration though more finesse and minerality to the sleek middle weight flavors that deliver excellent persistence on the balanced, clean and very dry finale. One to check out.”
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts Cuvee Millerandee Maconnais 2019 750ML ($99.95) $85 special, 5 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Les Quarts Cuvée Millerandée is even more reserved, opening in the glass with scents of clear honey, orange oil, white flowers and pear. Full-bodied, layered and textural, it’s concentrated and tightly wound, with tangy acids and chalky structuring extract. This will warrant a bit of patience.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat “Les Quarts” Cuvée Millerandée” comes from the upper part of the vineyard on shallow soils, combined with vine age and massal selection that produced millerandé bunches and smaller berries. It has a wonderful, very pure and mineral-driven bouquet with red apple, peach skin and yellow plum scents and soar from the glass. The palate is very well balanced with fine delineation, a superb line of acidity and more nervosité compared to the regular cuvée. Pure class.”
Burghound 91-94 points “Sweet Spot. This too is quite firmly reduced, and the nose reveals only the discreet wood treatment. There is terrific intense to the dense, serious and focused larger-scaled flavors that brim with both minerality and dry extract on the powerful, youthfully austere, bone-dry and hugely long finale. This possesses excellent potential.”
Some of the best offerings are sourced from the Les Quarts climat, which features exceptionally old vines over 80 years old and the perfect mix of red clay and limestone soils. While demonstrating the shyness of youth that’s found in current release Burgundy, there’s still a full spectrum of orchard fruit, white flowers, lemon oil and saline minerality. The exceptionally long finish and high acid make this something to cellar or decant prior to serving, with additional notes of grapefruit pith, Pomelo rind and Cara Cara orange emerging with patience.
Soufrandiere wines arriving later this spring:
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Longeays Maconnais 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Les Longeays opens in the glass with notes of pear, almonds, white flowers, mint and citrus zest. Medium to full-bodied and textural but tightly wound, with a sweet core of fruit and lively acids, it has turned out well.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat “Les Longeays”, the most precocious climat of the domaine according to the Brets, comes from the middle of the slope on four-metre deep clay soils. This offers enticing orchard fruit on the nose mixed with Vervane tea, honeysuckle and jasmine scents. The palate is tensile on its opening, full of energy that counterbalances the richness that comes through on the finish. There is just a hint of white chocolate lingering on the aftertaste. Excellent.”
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Fuisse Climat au Vignerais Maconnais 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Fuissé Climat “Au Vignerais” has the most Zen-like bouquet that demands the most coaxing from the glass, eventually revealing green apple and crushed rock scents. The nose is very well defined. The palate is taut and fresh, quite saline and tensile, building in concentration towards a very harmonious, orange pith and pear-tinged finish. This is a lovely, cerebral Pouilly-Fuissé.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Aromas of pear, citrus zest, toasted almonds and vanilla pod introduce the 2019 Pouilly-Fuissé Au Vignerais, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and ample wine that’s lively and saline. Seamless and elegant, it’s already showing well.”
Soufrandiere in stock now:
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts Maconnais 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 10 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92+ points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Les Quarts unwinds in the glass with notes of clear honey, white flowers and fresh bread. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, it’s vibrant and youthfully reserved, showing promise for the cellar.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “From the domaine’s oldest vines, the 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat “Les Quarts” has a brisk, lemon verbena, crushed rock and subtle blackcurrant leaf scented nose that is beautifully defined. The palate is taut and linear on the entry, a fine bead of acidity here, slightly waxy in texture towards the finish with hints of pear and peach skin lingering on the aftertaste. Drink now and over the next decade.”
Burghound 90-93 points “Outstanding. Restrained and decidedly cool aromas grudgingly exhibit notes of citrus, white and yellow orchard fruit and pretty spice whiffs. There is a bit less concentration though more finesse and minerality to the sleek middle weight flavors that deliver excellent persistence on the balanced, clean and very dry finale. One to check out.”
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts Cuvee Millerandee Maconnais 2019 750ML ($99.95) $85 special, 5 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Les Quarts Cuvée Millerandée is even more reserved, opening in the glass with scents of clear honey, orange oil, white flowers and pear. Full-bodied, layered and textural, it’s concentrated and tightly wound, with tangy acids and chalky structuring extract. This will warrant a bit of patience.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat “Les Quarts” Cuvée Millerandée” comes from the upper part of the vineyard on shallow soils, combined with vine age and massal selection that produced millerandé bunches and smaller berries. It has a wonderful, very pure and mineral-driven bouquet with red apple, peach skin and yellow plum scents and soar from the glass. The palate is very well balanced with fine delineation, a superb line of acidity and more nervosité compared to the regular cuvée. Pure class.”
Burghound 91-94 points “Sweet Spot. This too is quite firmly reduced, and the nose reveals only the discreet wood treatment. There is terrific intense to the dense, serious and focused larger-scaled flavors that brim with both minerality and dry extract on the powerful, youthfully austere, bone-dry and hugely long finale. This possesses excellent potential.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts Cuvee Zen Maconnais 2019 750ML ($99.95) $71.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Burghound 91-93 points “Sweet Spot. This is aromatically quite similar to the regular cuvée but even more restrained, indeed to the point that it’s all but mute. There is outstanding volume to the rich, full-bodied and opulent medium weight plus flavors that brim with sappy dry extract before culminating in a textured finale that is slightly more persistence as well as a bit more complex too. This should drink well early but reward 4 to 7 years of cellaring if desired.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The Muse of Montalcino:
Sassetti
Sassetti
There are few estates in the Brunello appellation that consistently capture the attention of critics and consumers alike.Located on the lower slopes of the Hill of Montalcino, the standout feature of their estate is the high percentage of marine fossils in their soil. These fossils are so widespread that an entire prehistoric whale was found nearby, later claiming a world record for its size. These mineral rich soils contribute structure and additional complexity to the finished wine, especially among older vines like Sassetti’s.
With vines ranging in age from 22-33 years old and farmed organically, their efforts have clearly paid off, with their Brunello’s being among the highest scoring in the appellation. We carry a whole collection of their offerings, ranging from their entry level Brunello to their Brunello Riserva
Sassetti Wines in stock now:
Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2014 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 94 points “Some earthy and savory aromas dominate the dried red cherries initially, then dried wild herbs and quite intense notes of spicy dried red cherries emerge. The palate has a very taut, structured feel with handsomely proportioned tannins carrying gently leathery dried red cherries. Long finish. Drink or hold.”
With vines ranging in age from 22-33 years old and farmed organically, their efforts have clearly paid off, with their Brunello’s being among the highest scoring in the appellation. We carry a whole collection of their offerings, ranging from their entry level Brunello to their Brunello Riserva
Sassetti Wines in stock now:
Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2014 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 94 points “Some earthy and savory aromas dominate the dried red cherries initially, then dried wild herbs and quite intense notes of spicy dried red cherries emerge. The palate has a very taut, structured feel with handsomely proportioned tannins carrying gently leathery dried red cherries. Long finish. Drink or hold.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 24 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 98 points “There’s something ethereal in the nose with flowers, cherries, strawberries and shitake mushrooms. Full body. This grows on the palate with super tannin and fruit structure. So much berry flavor and round, caressing tannins that fill your mouth. Tight at the end. This needs four to five years to show its true greatness. Try after 2023.”
Sassetti Livio Pertimali Mulino Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 93 points “This is the first vintage of the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Mulino from Pertimali, a lower-elevation cru that’s noted for the high level of marine fossils found in its soils. Here I find a classic display of dried roses, black cherry, dusty earth and freshly-tanned leather. It envelopes the palate in fleshy textures offset by a mix of tart wild berries, zesty acids and savory spice, as building tension puckers the cheeks, seeding them with fine-grained tannins. This comes across as structured yet remarkably balanced, and it’s a beautiful expression of the vintage. Lose your bottles in the cellar for two to three years, and then reap the rewards.”
James Suckling 94 points “Dried leaves, chocolate and licorice on the nose, followed by black olives. It’s full-bodied with firm, focused tannins and a long, savory finish. Dark chocolate and crushed walnuts. Tar and hints of asphalt. Drink from 2023.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2015 1.5L ($189.95) $159 special, only 4 magnums left
Case-3 Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Tuscany 2015 1.5L ($599.95) $449 special, (That’s $149.66 per magnum!)
James Suckling 98 points “There’s something ethereal in the nose with flowers, cherries, strawberries and shitake mushrooms. Full body. This grows on the palate with super tannin and fruit structure. So much berry flavor and round, caressing tannins that fill your mouth. Tight at the end. This needs four to five years to show its true greatness. Try after 2023.”
Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG Tuscany 2012 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 96 points “Firm and dense, this red sports cherry, leather, cigar box and sweet spice flavors. A juiciness midpalate adds depth. Finishes with tannins and a combination of earth, mineral and tobacco notes. Best from 2022 through 2038.”
We carry over 82 Brunello’s both in-store and online, shop now!
Collector’s Corner: 1990 Pomerol
1990 was largely billed as the “Vintage of the Century” in Bordeaux, akin to 2008 in Champagne and 2016 in the Willamette Valley. As you find with premium bottlings, they are just entering their prime drinking window. Wish you’d stocked up back then? We have stock on hand to fulfill your wish right here, right now.
In stock now:
Chateau Lagrange Pomerol 1990 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Chateau Lagrange Pomerol 1990 750ML ($599.95) $449 special, (That’s only $74.83 per bottle)
Case-12 Chateau Lagrange Pomerol 1990 750ML ($1199.95) $869 special, (That’s only $72.41 per bottle!)
Wine Spectator 94 points “Big, rustic and chewy red. Dark garnet color. Aromas of berries, leaves and wet earth. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long coffee, ripe fruit aftertaste.–1990 Bordeaux retrospective.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Vinopolis is an independent wine shop in Portland that opened in 2004. Our goal has always been to offer the finest, broadest, and largest selection of wines at the best prices to our customers in Portland, in Oregon, across the West Coast, and throughout the United States.
Thank you for reading and for continuing to support our team!
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.
Thank you for reading and for continuing to support our team!
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.