Sunday Night Newsletter 7-17-22

In This Newsletter:

New Arrival Special Feature:
Henri Richard

New Week – New Arrivals

Staff Pick: Benton-Lane Pinot Noir

Nifty & Thrifty

New Review for Crowley Wines

Collector’s Corner:
2018 Bordeaux

New Arrival Special Feature:

Henri Richard

You’d be forgiven for not having heard of Domaine Henri Richard – the rare bottles that leave Beaune and Paris cross the Channel, not the Atlantic. It’s located in Gevrey-Chambertin, just past the legendary Domaine Trapet. Founded in 1938 by former cooper, Jean Richard, today the 4th generation manages the estate’s operations with holdings in the Grand Crus of Charmes-Chambertin and Mazoyères-Chambertin. Farming organically since the year 2000 and using practically no new oak in all of their bottlings, the Richards craft some of the finest examples of terroir in the appellation. Thanks to the selection of vintages that we’ve secured, this is your chance to experience the chameleonic quality of Pinot Noir as time works its magic.

Newly Arrived Exclusive Bottlings from Domaine Henri Richard:

Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2013 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Burgundy Report “A slightly tighter nose. But this is big, flavourful wine in the mouth. A little more structured but very silky on the gums. Good wine here. A fine extra burst of flavour in the finish too. Just a lovely wine.”

Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2014 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Burgundy Report “Deep, beautiful fruit. A wide and slightly lush palate with good depth of flavour. Excellent material here – very lovely wine.”

Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2011 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2012 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2015 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2016 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Corvees 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 6 bottles in stock now

Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin ‘Les Tuileries’ 2014 750ML ($89.95) $75 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Burgundy Report “This cuvée exists since 2013 and reflects the old name of the house. It’s made from vines of one soil type which has a high component of millerandes. Despite only being planted in 1980s the quality is excellent, though delivers only 25-30 hl – so they keep more whole clusters here to augment the fermentation volume. A similar aromatic to the Aux Corvées, but with more flowers, indeed accented with whole-cluster roses. A wide, almost chalky texture, lovely flavour – very yum indeed. Super length, really fine and long this wine.”

Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin ‘Les Tuileries’ 2015 750ML ($89.95) $75 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Gevrey-Chambertin ‘Les Tuileries’ 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special, 6 bottles in stock now

Domaine Henri Richard Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2014 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Burgundy Report “A little more discreet, yet still a pretty aromatic. Relatively masculine structure for Charmes, but the fruit is pure Charmes with a little griotte in the mix – yum! An extra weight of flavour too – very long. Yum again! The most unready wine so far, but tons of potential – faintly oaky in the finish.”

Domaine Henri Richard Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2016 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2017 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now

“About one hectare of vines but with two very different soil types and multiple planting ages.” –Burgundy Report
Domaine Henri Richard Mazoyeres-Chambertin Grand Cru 2014 750ML ($199.95) $179 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Burgundy Report “Deep – a gorgeous nose – really a beauty. More intensity, more weight, a leading edge of salinity too – very lovely indeed. There’s also some minerality, here. Excellent.”

Domaine Henri Richard Mazoyeres-Chambertin Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($199.95) $179 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Domaine Henri Richard Mazoyeres-Chambertin Grand Cru 2017 750ML ($199.95) $179 special, 3 bottles in stock now

Shop the complete selection of Domaine Henri Richard wines here!

We’re Open for In-Store Shopping!

10 AM – 6 PM Daily

Masks are no longer mandatory
But they are appreciated, thanks!
We also offer Curbside Pickup & Shipping

Order Online / By Phone / By Email

Thank you from the team at Vinopolis!

Be well & drink well.

New Week – New Arrivals

Rosé

Domaine Migot Cotes de Toul Vin Gris, Moselle, France 2021 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Vom Boden importer note “The Mosel River begins in Alsace but spends most of its time running north through the Lorraine, the ignored little-brother of Alsace. This is the homeland of rosé, here called “Vin Gris.” For those looking for wines of finesse and delicacy, this is a thrilling region and there is no one better than the young Camille Migot: all hand-harvested, certified organic, all wild-yeast fermentations, NO chaptalization. SERIOUS. The Vin Gris is the calling card of the region, layered rosé that carries the nervous energy of the north.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Bastide du Claux Luberon Poudriere Rosé, Rhoné, France 2021 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Wine Merchant importer note “Côtes du Luberon Rosé: is a real standout, offering the ethereal pale salmon color and bright salty snap we’ve come to love about Provençal rosé, but without the confected, “commercial,” overly aromatically exuberant character that sometimes mars those wines. Sylvain picks all of the grapes at “rosé ripeness,” aiming for balancing acidity and brightness rather than sun-drenched ripeness. It’s composed of 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, and 10% each Carignan and Syrah, from vines between 25 and 60 years of age. All of the grapes are pressed directly, and the majority undergo no maceration, with a portion of Grenache and Cinsault spending six or so hours on their skins after the pressing. Everything is done in cement, and the wine ferments naturally. This is a non-flashy rosé of great mineral character, showing its soil influence clearly, and offering subtle red fruits and vigorous acidity on the palate.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Oregon

Cameron White Oak Orchard Cidre, (Ribbon Ridge) 2021 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 24 bottles in stock now

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Ovum “Rare Form – Day Moon” Sparkling Riesling Brut Nature, Oregon NV 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Day Moon is inspired by aged Blanc de Blanc Champagne. Striking straw gold color with a modest, fine mousse. An inviting nose of fresh brioche with a small pad of salted butter and lemon confit. Dried wildflower, straw and ginger follow. Pure energy races as the palate unfolds elegant layers of dried flowers and minerals. The restrained mousse is in harmony with the noticeably long, nutty finish. Native fermentation is completed in amphora, where it is then racked to age in neutral French oak for 1-2 years. Ksenija uses Riesling juice to build a yeast population that she will use to tirage the base wine at a specific atmosphere of pressure designed to match the vinosity of the wine (Day Moon: 3 bar). Minimum 18 months of bottle age on less, additional 6 months age post disgorgement. Brut Nature – 2gL dosage made from aged Riesling. *No added sulfites.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Ovum “Rare Form – For Love Nor Money” Riesling, Oregon 2020 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery note “White gold in the glass, it’s aromas of ripe Bartlett pears and golden delicious apple are deceiving. Under the fresh fruit layer sits a brooding sea of herbs – lemon verbena, eucalyptus, sage. There’s even notes of bittering agents like wormwood and cassia bark, yet they’re not present on the palate. A lightning bolt of acidity strikes your palate upon first taste, and then begins the cascading flavors of salted lemon and white pineapple soaked in chamomile tea. The finish is dry, and layered with dried herbs as the wine warms in the glass. Biodynamic. 1970’s own rooted Riesling, grown at 400 feet on a South facing slope. The Ana vineyard has produced notoriously complex wines for decades. Nestled in the heart of the Dundee Hills, this site collects additional heat units that allow for even ripeness, while the volcanic soils help to maintain salty acidity.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Washington

K Vintners The Boy Grenache, Walla Walla Valley 2018 750ML ($49.95) $44.50 special, 21 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “A lovely grenache with ripe strawberry, white pepper and hints of hazelnut on both the nose and palate. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a spicy finish. 100% whole cluster. No new oak. So yummy. Drink now or hold.”
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “Gorgeous framboise and ripe strawberry fruits as well as spice, herbes de Provence, and wildflower notes emerge from the 2018 Grenache The Boy Powerline Vineyard, and it’s medium to full-bodied, with a seamless, elegant texture and outstanding length. This is another thrilling Grenache from this team that does everything right. It’s hard to resist today yet should keep for 10-12 years in cold cellars.”

K Vintners ‘M.C.K. Motor City Kitty’ Syrah, Washington 2019 750ML ($44.95) $38 special, 36 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 98 points “Layered aromas of plums, black cherries, leather, bark and iron. Full-bodied with a lot of nuance. Firm, gripping tannins. Dried roses and crushed blackberries mix with dark, mineral complexity, leaving a buzz on the palate. A clear note of cocoa powder comes through. Concentrated and dynamic. Superb. Best after 2024.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “I always seem to love this cuvée and the 2019 Syrah Motor City Kitty is no exception. Coming all from a single block in the Boushey Vineyard, it was not destemmed, spent a full 47 days on skins, and was raised 21 months in 25% new French oak. It has a great nose of darker, gamey black fruits as well as iron, ground pepper, black olives, and violets. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, this balanced, rich, gamey, Northern Rhône-like beauty is terrific today and will be terrific in 8-10 years as well.”

K Vintners The Deal Sundance Vineyard Syrah, Columbia Valley 2018 750ML ($39.95) $34.50 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Currants, savory spices, dried flowers, charcoal, and loamy earth all emerge from the 2018 Syrah The Deal, which comes from the Sundance Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope. Showing plenty of more savory, earthy notes, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a rounded, expansive texture, and ripe, polished tannins. It shows the more elegant, streamlined style of the vintage, yet I love its balance. It’s going to benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and keep for 10-12.”

Italy – Piedmont

Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco DOCG 2018 750ML ($49.95) $44.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco DOCG 2018 750ML ($599.95) $479 special (that’s only $39.92/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “Packaged in its distinctive brown paper label, the Produttori del Barbaresco 2018 Barbaresco is a beautifully lean and luminous expression of Nebbiolo, and that pretty color should remain intact over time. The aromas are bold and ripe with dark and purple fruit, but the bouquet shows interesting twists with earth, truffle, licorice and grilled herb. As the wine opens in the glass, you begin to notice heavier aromas of raisin and dried apricot. It wears a warm-vintage signature for sure, and for that reason, I would suggest a shorter drinking window for the 2018. With an ample 300,000 bottles made, you get a great value with this bottle.”
James Suckling 93 points “Lovely barbaresco, with all the typical nebbiolo characteristics, such as red berries, mushrooms and dried leaves, as well as hints of bitter orange peel and spice. All this follows through to the medium-to full-bodied palate, where fine, lightly firm tannins add a little grip and additional focus. Compact, but bursting with flavor. Delicious now, but give it a year or two. It will only get better.”
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points “The 2018 Barbaresco is an attractive, open-knit wine to drink now and over the next 10-15 years, maybe more. In 2018 the Produttori did not bottle their Riservas. Instead, all of the best lots of those grapes went into the straight Barbaresco bottling, another in a long string of successes from this historic house. Dark cherry, cedar, tobacco and spice fill out the layers. There is good depth and a good deal of tannin too, just not the complexity or nuance of the very best years.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Italy – Tuscany

Felsina Berardenga Vin Santo Chianti Classico, Tuscany 2009 375ML ($59.95) $49 special, 12 half-bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97 points “The 2009 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico is a jewel of a wine. Rich and sumptuous, but not at all heavy, the 2009 offers up a beguiling mélange of orange peel, honey, dried flowers and candied almond. For readers who want to know what Vin Santo should be, this is it. Amazingly, the mother for the Vin Santo dates back to at least the 1950s!”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “Opening to a dark amber color and syrupy rich concentration, the Fèlsina 2009 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (packaged in a 375-milliliter bottle) is another beautiful dessert wine that captures the unique spirit of Tuscany. Toasted chestnut, caramel, apricot and honey peel off the enormous and far-reaching bouquet. The acidity is spot-on and totally cancels out any residual heaviness you might expect. This is another traditional Vin Santo that is totally out of this world.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “A complex mix of grilled almond, shortbread, butter and spice flavors are driven by the bracing acidity. Balanced and long, with an aftertaste of honey, spice and almond. Drink now through 2030. 1,167 cases made. — BS”

Raul Perez Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo 2019 750ML ($27.95) $19.90 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “The nose of the 2019 Ultreia Saint Jacques is nothing short of spectacular. It shows the varietal character and the juicy and round style of the Valtuille vineyards. It’s harmonious, clean and expressive. They are using more and more stems with long macerations, malolactic in tanks and aging in 30% oak vats (he purchased from Alión) and 70% of the wine in used 225-liter oak barrels for one year. There is only one master blend, which is put into oak vats and bottled by 25,000- to 30,000-bottle lots. In 2019 he produced 110,000 bottles of this wine.”

Staff Pick: Benton-Lane Pinot Noir

Xavier:
Located on the original site of a historic sheep ranch, Benton-Lane winery’s sustainable farming has been producing carefully crafted pinot noirs in the Southern Willamette Valley since the late 1980’s. I have particularly enjoyed their 2019 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Typically aged in French oak at least 12 months, Benton-Lane Pinot Noirs are fresh, expressive and reflect the uniqueness of their terroir. Blue fruit, plum and herbal aromatics describe their 2019 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Easily approachable, it also pairs well with grilled meats.

Benton-Lane Winery Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($29.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Benton-Lane Winery Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($359.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
James Suckling 92 points “Aromas of flowers and lightly green flower stems follow through to a medium body with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Medium, fine tannins. Best after 2024.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $26

Nifty & Thrifty

Marietta Cellars Angeli Cuvee, Alexander Valley 2019 750ML ($41.95) Was $36, Now $31.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Angeli Zinfandel has a medium ruby color and elegant perfume of white peaches, white pepper, tea leaves, licorice and wild berries. The palate balances intense, ultra-perfumed fruit with loads of lift, and it finishes long and full of flavor. This is notable for its stellar price-to-quality ratio.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Marietta Cellars OVR Old Vine Red, California NV 750ML ($17.95) Was $14, Now $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Winery note “Old Vine Red is a proprietary red wine made to replicate the field blends of many of the old vineyards in Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Predominantly comprised of Zinfandel, Old Vine Red combines pure fruit, a supple mouth feel and a rich, solid structure. A groundbreaking combination of varietals and multiple vintages first produced in 1982, this wine has blazed the path for red blends for decades. With a historic underground following, it is one of the longest lasting and best known red blends produced today.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Vaglio Wines Aggie Malbec, Uco Valley, Argentina 2019 750ML ($21.95) Was $18, Now $16.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Vaglio Wines Aggie Malbec, Uco Valley, Argentina 2019 750ML ($249.95) Was $199, Now $179 special (that’s only $14.92/bottle!) ***In-store pick up only
James Suckling 94 points “Such beautiful aromas of blackberries and minerals with chalk and salt. It’s medium-bodied with fine, integrated tannins and a pretty finish. Refined, silky texture. Drink or hold.”

This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!

Oyster Bay Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand 2019 750ML ($21.95) Was $14.50, Now $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Oyster Bay Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand 2019 750ML ($249.95) Was $159, Now $128 special (that’s only $10.67/bottle!) ***In-store pick up only
James Suckling 91 points “Attractive pinot noir with strawberry, smoke and spice aromas and flavors. Medium body, firm and lightly chewy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Real pinot character. Drink now.”

Pago Casa Gran ‘Casa Benasal’ Rosado, Valencia, Spain 2020 750ML ($14.95) Was $11.90, Now $9.90 special, 35 bottles in stock now
Staff pick! Our favorite vintage yet.
Winery note “Refreshing wine, young and dry. It’s pleasant with enough body to sustain it. Great acidity. 60% Monastrell and 40% Syrah.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Chateau de Manissy ‘La Belle Etoile’ Rose, Rhone, Vin de France 2020 750ML ($14.95) Was $11.90, Now $9.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 89 points “Pale orange-pink. Lively and focused on the nose, displaying fresh strawberry, white peach and orange zest scents, with floral and mineral nuances. Red berry and pit fruit flavors show sharp detail and a bracing hint of juicy acidity. The floral note repeats on the tight finish, which lingers with good tenacity.”
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache. Clay & limestone. Tasting note: Crushed stone, pressed flowers and white cherries. Medium body with a long finish.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

New Review for Crowley Wines

A mostly-restaurant release, this has ample tannins and juicy fruit. An amped up Crowley wine that’s delicious now!

Crowley Wines “Dh” Pinot Noir Willamette Valley MV 750ML ($31.95) $27 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Michael Alberty, Oregonian/OregonLive “This juice was originally going to be Tyson Crowley’s 2018 “Entre Nous,” Pinot Noir, which sells for just under $40 a bottle. Then COVID and wildfires hit, so Crowley held the wine in neutral French oak barrels until he could figure out what would happen next. It was recently bottled and labeled “dh” as a tip of the cap to the Dundee Hills. The fruit aromas of black cherry and blackberries are joined by a savory quality that had me craving something meaty from the backyard grill. The flavors of smoky blackberries, orange pekoe tea and ginger are dazzling. This is an incredible wine that you could age for several more years.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Collector’s Corner:

2018 Bordeaux

In spite of challenging weather conditions, the 2018 Bordeaux vintage is considered excellent and possibly exceptional by some. After an extremely wet spring that lingered into June, the unusually hot summer temperatures created highly concentrated fruit, elevated sugar levels and therefore higher alcohol. As a result, one might expect pronounced tannins and high alcohol from 2018 Bordeaux wines, but they are surprisingly “aromatically intense, deep, dark wines that beautifully marry fruit intensity with structure,” as described by Antonio Galloni of Vinous.

2018 Bordeaux Highlights In Stock Now:

Chateau de Chantegrive Blanc, Graves 2018 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “Editor’s Choice. This ripe wine shows yellow fruits as well as layers of citrus. The rich texture gives weight and brings out a buttery element. This wine will age well and should not be drunk before 2021. -Roger Voss”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Chateau Fieuzal L’Abeille de Fieuzal Blanc, Pessac Leognan 2018 750ML ($41.95) $34.50 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “The estate has made a reputation for its white wines. This second wine reflects the equilibrium and ripeness of the top white while having a lighter, more instantly accessible character. With judicious wood aging, it will be ready from 2022. -Roger Voss”
Importer note “Fieuzal’s historic terroir – known for exceptional whites – produces spectacularly balanced and structured wines with critical acclaim – and relative value. Fieuzal has converted entirely to organic practices, in short becoming a completely sustainable ‘working wine farm’. This very well-made second wine, ‘L’Abeille’ comes from the same estate fruit as the Grand Vin, albeit with slightly different cepage. (54% Sauv Blanc, 46% Semillon) Abeille transports us into summertime with aromas of lime, dill, straw, acacia, white flowers and flint. Richly textured, with fine balance and a touch of salinity on the finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

“some of the most profound 2018s emerge from these pristine vineyards [in Saint-Emilion]…” –Antonio Galloni

Chateau Puy Blanquet, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 92-94 points “Deeply colored, the 2018 Château Puy-Blanquet checks in as 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from a 20-hectare parcel of clay and limestone soils. Beautifully ripe and sexy, with a massive bouquet of blackcurrants, macerated black cherries, and smoked earth, it’s full-bodied, opulent, and layered on the palate, with serious fruit. This brilliant wine will be approachable in its youth yet also evolve gracefully for 15 years or more. It should also be an incredible value.”
Antonio Galloni 90-93 points “The 2018 Puy-Blanquet is a rich, creamy and sensual wine with tremendous near and medium term appeal. In 2018, Puy-Blanquet is especially lush, almost shockingly so, for a Saint-Émilion that is usually quite classic in feel. Inky red and purplish berry fruit, spice, rose petal and mint build as this silky, pliant Saint-Émilion shows off its racy, inviting personality. Don’t miss it.”

“one of the wines of the vintage” –Antonio Galloni
Chateau La Gaffeliere, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 99 points “The 2018 La Gaffelière is hands down one of the wines of the vintage. Towering in its stature and vertical lift, the 2018 dazzles right out of the gate. Inky dark fruit, mocha, spice, licorice and leather all run through this deep, wonderfully pliant Saint-Émilion. The 2018 is rich, deep and beautifully resonant, with tremendous depth and tons of stature that builds, all framed by beams of supporting minerality that confer vibrancy. La Gaffelière is distinctive, alluring and arresting right out of the gate. It is another magnificent showing from this reborn estate. The blend is 63% Merlot and 37% Cabernet Franc. Magnifique!”

Chateau Belair-Monange, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018 750ML ($279.95) $249 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 99 points “Very intense blackberries, black olives, blueberries and dried flowers. Stony minerality. Even some pine. Full-bodied with superb depth of fruit and ultra fine tannins that are intense and polished. The finish is so long and delivers so much flavor, from wet earth to blackberry again. Seamless palate. Try after 2026.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 98 points “Made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Belair Monange rolls effortlessly out of the glass with gregarious scents of black cherry preserves, stewed plums and boysenberries, plus suggestions of Indian spices, rose oil, Ceylon tea and garrigue, with a waft of tilled soil. The rich, seductive, full-bodied palate is laden with black fruit preserves and exotic spice layers, framed by velvety tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and fragrant. Wonderfully hedonic and conceivably drinkable now, give it 4-5 years in the cellar to allow the earthy/savory nuances to fully emerge from within the fruit and drink it over the next 25 years or more.”

Chateau Trotanoy, Pomerol 2018 750ML ($469.95) $399 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “Another heavenly Pomerol in the vintage, the 2018 Château Trotanoy checks in as 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc brought up in (I suspect) lots of new French oak (although it’s certainly not apparent). Revealing a dense purple hue as well as a smorgasbord-like bouquet of blackcurrants, dried flowers, cured meats, violets, tobacco, and chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a sexy, seductive texture, building yet sweet tannins, and just a rich, concentrated, yet flawless profile on the palate that’s already impossible to resist. Nevertheless, a good 7-8 years of bottle age are warranted, and this magical elixir is going to evolve for 40 years or more.”
Antonio Galloni 99 points “The 2018 Trotanoy is a bold, powerful wine. In this vintage, some of the imposing structure that is such a Trotanoy signature has been replaced by super-expressive aromatics and striking detail. Dried herbs, iron, gravel and crushed rose petals all lend gorgeous savory nuance to a core of potent red berry fruit. Trotanoy is a Pomerol for those who can be patient. The 2018, though, is extraordinarily beautiful right out of the gate.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2018 Trotanoy is composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, it slowly unfurls to reveal a jaw-dropping perfume of Black Forest cake, black raspberries, blackberry pie and kirsch, followed by hints of cast-iron pan, violets, woodsmoke, Chinese five spice and eucalyptus, with a waft of tree bark. The full-bodied palate explodes with exotic spice and mineral fireworks, grounded by a concentrated, black and red berry preserves core and framed by firm, grainy tannins, finishing with epic length and depth. It will need a good five years in bottle to tame some of the youthfully overt, showy fruit and allow the mineral and earth nuances to emerge, then it should easily cellar another 35 years or more.”

“Pauillac is littered with superb wines, across all price points. Readers will find plenty to like in some of the appellation’s less prestigious châteaux. These properties, which are often in less favored microclimates that can produce leaner wines, actually benefitted from the extra kick of richness from the summer heat.” –Antonio Galloni

#2 Wine Spectator – Wine of the Year In 2021
Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac 2018 750ML ($299.95) $279 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98+ points “The 2018 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse De Lalande is a monster of a wine with an almost Château Latour-like stature and structure, offering deep, backward, slightly reductive notes of blackcurrants, crushed stone, scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, and tobacco leaf. Based largely on Cabernet Sauvignon mixed with 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, it’s full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful on the palate, with masses of tannins, beautiful mid-palate density, and a great finish. As I’ve commented previously, the up-front, sexy style of the past (due to the larger Merlot content, I believe) has been replaced by a more regal, at times austere profile. Nevertheless, it’s still its own wine and very Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in style. This 2018 is going to need 5-7 years of bottle age and will evolve for 40+ years.”
Wine Spectator 98 points “Offers a deep well of dark currant, blackberry paste and plum preserves fruit that needs time to unwind fully, as it’s shrouded in warm earth, tobacco, singed cedar, sweet bay leaf and savory notes. A ramrod of graphite adds to the strident, structured feel. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2030 through 2050. 13,000 cases made. — JM”
Wine Enthusaist 98 points “Cellar Selection. This famous estate at the southern end of Pauillac has produced a powerful wine. Packed blackberry fruits, laced with acidity, are just starting out on a long journey along with the tannins. The wine’s elegance is beautifully preserved within the structure. With considerable potential, the wine should not be drunk before 2027. -Roger Voss”

Chateau de Pez, Saint-Estephe 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Chateau de Pez, Saint-Estephe 2018 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special, 5 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “From the team of Nicolas Glumineau at Pichon Comtesse de Lalande, the 2018 Château De Pez is a gorgeous 2018 that should be on every Bordeaux lover’s radar (and should be a great value as well). Notes of blackcurrants, blueberries, candied violets, and graphite define the bouquet, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, rockingly polished tannins, terrific purity, and a great finish. It’s terrific and is going to have 15-20 years or more of longevity. The blend is 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Under the same Rouzaud family ownership as Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Pauillac, this estate has produced a structured wine. It offers dense and solid tannins, rich with a firm texture and black currant fruits. The wine has weight and density that need aging. Drink from 2026. -Roger Voss”

New 2018 Bordeaux Offers Arriving in August:

Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special, 24 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2018 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is fabulous, just as it was from barrel. Strong Cabernet inflections soar out of the glass, giving the wine a compelling aromatic profile laced with the essence of graphite, dried herbs, menthol and dark fruit. One of the most classic (for lack of a better word) wines in the Left Bank in 2018, Grand-Puy-Lacoste is super-impressive right out of the gate. Grand-Puy-Lacoste is ultimately a wine of tremendous class that remains restrained and aristocratic in breeding. Don’t miss it.”

Chateau Giscours, Margaux 2018 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, 16 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Always a significant wine, this latest release with powerful while also stylish black fruits fits into a well-regarded tradition. The density and broad fruitiness of the wine make fine foils for each other. It is firmly structured and set for aging. Drink this wine from 2027. -Roger Voss”

“Léoville-Barton… [wines…] are …superb and well worth considering.” –Antonio Galloni
Chateau Léoville-Barton, Saint-Julien 2018 750ML ($149.95) $135 pre-arrival special, 24 bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “Cassis, crushed plum and steeped blackberry fruit is all packed into this wine, along with tar, violet and roasted apple wood notes, plus a terrific tug of warm earth. Shows lots of energy in reserve, with a tightly knit finish pulling everything together. Cellaring required. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2026 through 2040. 11,600 cases made. — JM”
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Editor’s Choice. In this wine, fine and rich tannins partner with powerful black-plum and black-currant fruits. Densely textured while also having swathes of rich fruits, the wine shows both a firm side and one that offers total deliciousness. As it matures, both these aspects will come together. Drink from 2027. -Roger Voss”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2018 Léoville-Barton is a gorgeous, exotic wine. Crème de cassis, lavender, menthol, licorice and cloves race out of the glass. The 2018 marries the natural opulence of the year with a pretty classic sense of structure, making for one of the more compelling wines of the year. I would give this a good decade in the cellar. There is much to look forward to. I especially admire the energy and poise here.”
Decanter 96 points “Well-polished blackcurrant, cassis and bilberry, everything pretty silky and firm. Not fully showing its generosity at this point but no question that it is going to get there soon. Clear charcoal, graphite and woodsmoke as it opens up. A ton of life ahead, and an appealing sense of mint freshness. Lives up to its en primeur promise – this is Léoville Barton at its most confident. Drinking Window 2026 – 2040.”

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