In This Newsletter:
Subscriber-Only Special:
10% off 750ml rosé & 15% off large format rosé
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Subscriber-Only Special:
10% off 750ml rosé & 15% off large format rosé
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Beaujolais:
Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, and Chiroubles
Trending
Port Suitable for a King
Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, and Chiroubles
Trending
Port Suitable for a King
Rosé Sale
Subscriber-Only Special:
10% off 750ml rosé & 15% off large format rosé
Discount will not display online, we will adjust before charging your card.
Sale valid on non-sparkling rosé and ends Sunday, December 4th at 6 PM Pacific
Need ideas? Shop our staff picks below!
Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina 2021 750ml Displayed Price $21.90, Discount $19.71, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds- Vinous 91 points “Pale orange. Finely etched red berry, citrus zest and floral aromas, along with building herb and mineral flourishes. Taut and nervy in the mouth, offering sappy strawberry, cherry and tangerine flavors that show fine delineation and spicy lift. Closes firm and right, with persistent red fruit notes and a refreshingly bitter edge.”
De Maison importer note “The iconic Ameztoi Rubentis rosé is a field blend of the local, indigenous hondarrabi zuri and hondarrabi beltza varieties, grown on traditional trellises high on the slopes rising above Getaria, an ancient Basque fishing village on Spain’s rugged northern coast. In the 2000s, when almost all of the other local wineries gave up on the indigenous red hondarrabi beltza vines, the Ameztoi family retained their old vines, in turn, lending their rosé such exceptional vibrancy and complexity. Rubentis, the region’s first pink wine, was inspired by the historic claret style wines which were once produced in the area long before the current global craze made rosé famous. The backbone of the blend comes from an old hondarrabi beltza vineyard planted in 1840, preserved by the Ameztoi family for generations. Ameztoi Rubentis is an authentic original, a wine that is often imitated but never replicated.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaines Ott Chateau Romassan Rosé, Bandol 2021 750ml Displayed Price $54.50, Discount $49.05, 36+ in stock now
Producer notes “Its pale, ethereal pink colour tinted with gold or orange, releases a bouquet of citrus fruits and white orchard flowers. On the palate, the immediate effect is lively and bright, revealing notes of pink grapefruit, fleshy fruit and, once the wine has had a chance to breathe, hints of fruit tart. The finish is complex and lasting.”
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 91 points “Mainly Mourvèdre, with smaller proportions of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, the 2021 Bandol Rose Chateau Romassan is coppery in hue. Offering up hints of crushed stone alongside peach, melon and lime, it’s nicely balanced and easy to drink but also long, zesty-briny and stony on the finish.”
James Molesworth Wine Spectator 92 points “Very juicy yet restrained in style, with a core of peach, jasmine, white cherry and rosemary backed by a long finish, which ripples with a wet stone note. Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Grenache. Drink now through 2023.”
Domaines Ott ‘By.Ott’ Rosé, Côtes de Provence 2021 750ml Displayed Price $24, Discount $21.60 36+ bottles in stock now
Producer notes “Pale and pretty in crystal-clear pink with orange undertones. The nose is delicate and fruity with notes of white peach and apricot mixed with passion fruit and mango. The taste is full, fresh and crisp with echoes of the fruity aroma amplified by citrus zest and sweet spices (cinnamon and cardamom). All of the great Domaines Ott* tradition in a friendly and elegant wine.”
James Molesworth Wine Spectator 88 points “A friendly, expressive rosé, with white cherry and peach notes lined with wet straw, jasmine and savory hints. Soft on the edges, but will have a lot of fans for sure. Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now.”
Hofgut Falkenstein Niedermennig Herrenberg Rosé Trocken, Mosel 2021 750ml Displayed Price $29, Discount $26.90, 16 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 89 points “The 2021er Niedermenniger Herrenberg Rosé Trocken is made from fruit picked on what was planted by the Webers as Spätburgunder 25 years ago but which the authorities now say is a mutation and not legally Spätburgunder. It offers a very playful nose of pomegranate, cooked raspberry, and spices. The wine is still quite tart and firm on the palate and leaves an almost white wine feel in the long finish. Now-2024.”
Marius Klein über 92 points “Hofgut Falkenstein Niedermenniger Herrenberg Rosé Trocken 2021 sets completely new standards for rosé in Germany. Rosé is easy going, summer – terrace – unscrew – slurp away – love each other… forget it! It’s so veeery different. Focused, mineral and Bone-dry without any cheesy fruit, but serious and complex. By far the best German rosé I have ever tasted. Places itself easily in a row with the exquisite handful of grandiose rosé wines in the world such as Château Simone, Domaine l`Horizon or Vina Tondonia!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Evening Land Seven Springs Vineyard Rosé of Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2020 750ml Displayed Price $20.90, Discount $18.81, 11 bottles in stock now
Winery note “The Seven Springs Rosé comes from the young Pinot Noir vines planted up on the vineyard’s East Ridge. These densely planted vines grow in well-drained soils and receive a full day of sunshine during the growing season. This cuvée offers a lively acidity, fresh fruit flavors and subtle floral characteristics.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Clos Sainte Magdeleine ‘Marie de Magdala’ Rosé, IGP Bouches-du-Rhone 2020 750ml Displayed Price $41.90, Discount $37.71, 9 bottles in stock now
Kermit Lynch importer note “Parcel is located on the terraces of the Cap Canaille. Grapes are de-stemmed and lightly crushed before pressing. Fermented with native yeasts in 10- hL jarres en grès (sandstone amphorae). Does not undergo malolactic fermentation. No fining. Aged on fine lees in sandstone jarres until early summer bottling.”
Winemaker note “A bottling of pure Grenache as fresh and mineral as this is a rare treat. Organic grapes grown on the flanks of the craggy Cap Canaille stay cool thanks to the spritzy seaside winds. But it’s the texture of this homage to Marie Magdeleine that’s the real standout. Partially raised in sandstone amphora, this Rosé is luxurious and unadulterated—from the Bouches-du-Rhône.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Castello di Ama ‘Purple Rosé’ Toscana IGT 2017 1.5L Displayed Price $39, Discount $33.15, 6 magnums in stock now
Ian D’Agata- Vinous 90 points “Luminous red-pink. Fresh aromas of strawberry and flowers, then ripe and sweet with similar flavors to the aromas that show very good acid cut. This actually leaves a sweet impression on the long suave finish, but has so much acidity it seems less sweet than it is. Lovely. Winemaker Marco Pallanti has changed the winemaking so as to macerate the must on the skins for twelve hours and then ages the wine in used (one year) barriques to round it. A blend of mostly Sangiovese with a little Merlot.”
Winemaker’s Notes Color: Purple with living nuances. Aroma: Primary fruity aromas such as cherry and ripened strawberry. Taste: The personality of this wine comes up when it enters the mouth. A persistent flavor reminds red fruits and mineral notes. An extraordinary freshness completes the tasting profile.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Peyrassol Estate
There are few places that have been cultivating wine grapes for as long as Provence having been originally settled by the Phocian Greeks in 600 BC. Fast forward a few centuries and you have Chateau Peyrassol continuing these traditions (With a restored historical site at that) under the guidance of the Austruy family, which has invested in the vineyard and winery and has expanded the line up to include non-estate bottlings.
These are historic wines from the foothills of the Massif des Maures along the Mediterranean coast. Wine production dates back to 1256 under the Knights Templar and has been in continuous production since. The wines are produced organically with limited yields due to the severe climate, low-vigor soils, and age of the vines. Provencial rose is famous for being light in color and perfectly crushable. Usually made from blends of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan there are a few rarities that are made predominantly with Tibouren, one of the original grapes planted in the area. Peyrassol is one of the few estates that grow all of the permitted varietals on their estate, with Tibouren being the chief grape of their highest offering: Les Clos.
In Stock & On Sale Through Sunday:
Peyrassol ‘Le Clos Peyrassol’ Rosé, Côtes de Provence 2019 1.5L Displayed Price $129, Discount $109.65 9 magnums in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 91/100 points “The Knights Templar founded Commanderie in the 13th century and grapes have been grown here since. Philippe Austruy has owned the property since 2001 This wine is soft and ripe, with a smooth texture. Acidity comes from orange-peel and red-currant flavors that permeate the wine and give it a bright aftertaste. Drink now. Roger Voss”
Wine Advocate 93 Points “Predominantly Tibouren, with the balance of the blend being Grenache and Rolle, Peyrassol’s super pale 2019 Cotes de Provence Rose Le Clos Peyrassol offers up scents of crushed stone, garrigue, white peach and lime, all tinged with tart red berries. It’s medium-bodied on the palate, with a silky-wet stone feel and a lingering finish that seems to build in red fruit intensity while remaining citrusy and refreshing at the same time. One of the best wines in this year’s tasting, this is a limited-production cuvée from a walled vineyard located on the estate formerly known as Commanderie de Peyrassol.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Peyrassol ‘Chateau Peyrassol’ Rosé, Côtes de Provence 2017 3L Displayed Price $159, Discount $135.15, 6 three-liters in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “From a selection of old vines, this concentrated wine is rich, full of spice, pepper and bold red-fruit flavors. It is intense with both acidity and fruitiness, a tangy wine that finishes with a tight bite of lemon zest. Drink now. Roger Voss”
Importer note “Made entirely from estate fruit in 2017, “Chateau” is primarily Cinsault, with increasingly smaller amounts of Grenache, Mourvedre, Tibouren, and Syrah. This is a higher-toned, more floral, more filigree wine than its brother above, with subtle herbal notes framing clean, lifted fruit on the nose. Though equally as dense—and perhaps more penetrating due to its more overt mineral character—it is no richer than the “Commanderie,” and it expresses the vintage’s firm tension with elegance.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Chateau Peyrassol’ Rose 2018 6L Displayed Price $319, Discount $271.15, 2 six-liters in stock now
*****In-store pick up only. Shipping not available*****
Importer note “Made entirely from estate fruit in 2017, “Chateau” is primarily Cinsault, with increasingly smaller amounts of Grenache, Mourvedre, Tibouren, and Syrah. This is a higher-toned, more floral, more filigree wine than its brother above, with subtle herbal notes framing clean, lifted fruit on the nose. Though equally as dense—and perhaps more penetrating due to its more overt mineral character—it is no richer than the “Commanderie,” and it expresses the vintage’s firm tension with elegance.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $359.99
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $359.99
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Pahlmeyer Merlot, Napa Valley 2019 750ml $99 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “Ripe plums and blueberries with slate, sweet tobacco and bark, Full-bodied, yet very fresh, with firm, layered tannins and a rich finish. Spices at the end. Juicy. Better in two or three years. Try after 2025.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 94 points “Pahlmeyer’s 2019 Merlot comes mainly from the estate vineyard, with smaller proportions from the Rancho Chimiles, Broken Rock and Stagecoach Vineyards. It’s all Merlot this year, with aging in barrels from Taransaud (75% new). Beautiful notes of loamy earth and mocha accent black cherries and plums on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is somewhere between velvet and silk in texture, and the lingering finish adds savory hints of cocoa and black olive.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Flamboyant yet impeccably structured, with rich and detailed black cherry and red currant flavors accented by mocha espresso and toasty oak. Finishes with rich, supple tannins. Drink now through 2029. 1,450 cases made.”
James Suckling 97 points “Ripe plums and blueberries with slate, sweet tobacco and bark, Full-bodied, yet very fresh, with firm, layered tannins and a rich finish. Spices at the end. Juicy. Better in two or three years. Try after 2025.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 94 points “Pahlmeyer’s 2019 Merlot comes mainly from the estate vineyard, with smaller proportions from the Rancho Chimiles, Broken Rock and Stagecoach Vineyards. It’s all Merlot this year, with aging in barrels from Taransaud (75% new). Beautiful notes of loamy earth and mocha accent black cherries and plums on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is somewhere between velvet and silk in texture, and the lingering finish adds savory hints of cocoa and black olive.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Flamboyant yet impeccably structured, with rich and detailed black cherry and red currant flavors accented by mocha espresso and toasty oak. Finishes with rich, supple tannins. Drink now through 2029. 1,450 cases made.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Jermann ‘Vintage Tunina’ Venezia Giulia IGT, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2016 750ml $33 special, 36 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “This is really beautiful with so much mango, pineapple and lemon character. Hints of honeysuckle, too. Full body, intense dried fruit and vibrant acidity. Great Italian white blend. Screw cap. Drink or hold.”
Wine Advocate – Monica Larner 94 points “This white blend enjoys one of the most popular and heartfelt followings in the varied and beautiful world of vino Italiano. The 2016 Vintage Tunina is a blend of 25% Chardonnay, 25% Sauvignon Blanc, 22% Ribolla Gialla, 23% Malvasia and 5% Picolit. Despite the complexity of the blend, each variety shows its distinct personality with varying degrees of intensity. For example, there is no mistaking the radiant fragrances of the Sauvignon Blanc and the floral layers of the Malvasia. The Chardonnay gives the wine its textual fiber and core weight. The two indigenous grapes, Ribolla Gialla and Picolit, add unmistakable territory-specific personality with lush Mediterranean fruits. Fermentation is kicked off with indigenous yeast in stainless steel. Once 5% or 6% alcohol is achieved, one-quarter of the must is moved to Slavonian oak casks, where it completes fermentation. The wine then rests in oak for 11 months. Production is 69,000-bottles strong.”
Wine Enthusiast- Kerin O’Keefe 94 points ” One of Italy’s most iconic white wines, this radiant blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Ribolla Gialla and Malvasia opens with aromas of spring wildflower, white and yellow stone fruit and sun-warmed hay. Vibrant and boasting tension and elegance, the linear delicious palate doles out ripe apricot, creamy white peach and juicy grapefruit before a white-almond and saline close.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $64
The average price is $64
Jermann Pinot Grigio Venezia Giulia IGT, Friuli Venezia Giulia 2021 750ml $18 special, 36 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “Crushed stones, jasmine, white tea and green apples on the nose. Crisp, tangy and fresh with a medium body and a clean, mineral finish. Drink now. Screw cap. (6/1/22)”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Beaujolais
Moulin-à-Vent
Nicknamed “The Lord of Beaujolais wines” Moulin-à-Vent is a spectacular appellation located in the Northern region of Beaujolais, known for highly expressive, sophisticated Gamays with excellent cellaring suitability. Considered one of the most desired crus of Beaujolais, Moulin-à-Vent is an easy choice for your next exploration into this region.
Château du Moulin-à-Vent
The exceptional microclimate of Château du Moulin-à-Vent was first discovered by Madame Philiberte Pommier (1763-1862). Understanding the extraordinary potential of this site, she designated plots around the chateau, accentuating individual parcel characteristics, a terroir driven philosophy still guiding the winemakers of Château du Moulin-à-Vent today. With three-hundred years of tradition combined with modern innovation, and extensive winery renovations completed in 2009, Château du Moulin continues to prove themselves as a producer of consistent quality.
The first record of the Chateau, encapsulated in an old proverb from 1732 richly describes what is waiting to be discovered from Château du Moulin-à-Vent:
“Every wine is good with a meal, but a meal can not be enjoyed without Thorins. The merit of this wine is that it is firm, but supple, it has good body but also has lightness, it is ruby colored and transparent, with a flattering nose and a delicate taste. . .”
Our newly arrived, Château du Moulin-à-Vent 2019, stays true to this narrative, showcasing an expressive bouquet, with concentrated fruit flavors, and structured tannins. A gorgeous wine as we head into the winter.
In Stock Now from Château du Moulin-à-Vent:
Château du Moulin-à-Vent ‘Moulin-à-Vent’ 2019 750ml $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “A selection of fruit from the three best parcels of the estate, this wine shows great ripeness, solid tannins and impressive berry fruits. It is developing into a fine wine that needs more aging. Drink from 2024. Roger Voss”
James Suckling 91 points “Crushed-stone minerality on top of fresh red berries and herbs. Soft and medium-bodied with refined tannins. Ethereal and drinkable style with lots of elegance. Tasted in a vertical lineup of ten vintages in Hong Kong. Drink now”
Winemaker Notes “A handsome, deep red color with purple tints and lovely aromas, with perfectly mature red and black fruit, hints of spice and floral notes of rose, peony and violet. Good body with fine tannins and good length. Rich, opulent and complex, finishing on a spicy note.”
Nicknamed “The Lord of Beaujolais wines” Moulin-à-Vent is a spectacular appellation located in the Northern region of Beaujolais, known for highly expressive, sophisticated Gamays with excellent cellaring suitability. Considered one of the most desired crus of Beaujolais, Moulin-à-Vent is an easy choice for your next exploration into this region.
Château du Moulin-à-Vent
The exceptional microclimate of Château du Moulin-à-Vent was first discovered by Madame Philiberte Pommier (1763-1862). Understanding the extraordinary potential of this site, she designated plots around the chateau, accentuating individual parcel characteristics, a terroir driven philosophy still guiding the winemakers of Château du Moulin-à-Vent today. With three-hundred years of tradition combined with modern innovation, and extensive winery renovations completed in 2009, Château du Moulin continues to prove themselves as a producer of consistent quality.
The first record of the Chateau, encapsulated in an old proverb from 1732 richly describes what is waiting to be discovered from Château du Moulin-à-Vent:
“Every wine is good with a meal, but a meal can not be enjoyed without Thorins. The merit of this wine is that it is firm, but supple, it has good body but also has lightness, it is ruby colored and transparent, with a flattering nose and a delicate taste. . .”
Our newly arrived, Château du Moulin-à-Vent 2019, stays true to this narrative, showcasing an expressive bouquet, with concentrated fruit flavors, and structured tannins. A gorgeous wine as we head into the winter.
In Stock Now from Château du Moulin-à-Vent:
Château du Moulin-à-Vent ‘Moulin-à-Vent’ 2019 750ml $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “A selection of fruit from the three best parcels of the estate, this wine shows great ripeness, solid tannins and impressive berry fruits. It is developing into a fine wine that needs more aging. Drink from 2024. Roger Voss”
James Suckling 91 points “Crushed-stone minerality on top of fresh red berries and herbs. Soft and medium-bodied with refined tannins. Ethereal and drinkable style with lots of elegance. Tasted in a vertical lineup of ten vintages in Hong Kong. Drink now”
Winemaker Notes “A handsome, deep red color with purple tints and lovely aromas, with perfectly mature red and black fruit, hints of spice and floral notes of rose, peony and violet. Good body with fine tannins and good length. Rich, opulent and complex, finishing on a spicy note.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Château du Moulin-à-Vent ‘Moulin-à-Vent’ Couvent des Thorins 2018 750ml $26 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 92 points “[Wine & Spirits Winery of the Year in 2021 Featured Wine] A selection from 40-year-old vines growing in granite soils with manganese, this wine fermented with some whole clusters (20 percent) and then aged for 16 months in stainless steel. That élevage preserved the generous depths of fruit in the wine, floral up front, edged with bright tannins and green-peppercorn spice in the end. A bold and zesty 2018, this will benefit from a year of bottle age.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Shimmering ruby. Powerful blackberry, cherry and licorice aromas are complicated by suggestions of smoky minerals and violet. Well-concentrated and broad in the mouth, offering bitter cherry and dark berry flavors enlivened by a snap of cracked pepper. Slowly building tannins frame the finish, which lingers with very good, dark-fruit-driven persistence.”
More recommendations from the Moulin-à-Vent In Stock Now:
Domaine de la Bruyere Moulin-à-Vent 2019 750ml $21.90 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Limpid ruby. Spice-tinged cherry and black raspberry on the nose, with licorice and cola nuances emerging as the wine opens up. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering bitter cherry and dark berry flavors that show sharp definition and a hint of candied violet. Closes long and spicy, with sneaky tannins adding shape and final grip.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Anita Moulin-à-Vent ‘Les Caves’ Tres Vieilles Vignes 2020 750ml $24 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 94 points “What a beautiful nose of violets and ripe (but not overripe) blackberries this has! So succulent, with a wonderful interplay of creaminess, fine tannins and mineral freshness on the concentrated, medium-bodied palate. Very long, velvety finish with so much finesse! Drink or hold.”
Domaine Anita Moulin-à-Vent La Rochelle 2020 750ml $31.90 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “This Beaujolais masterpiece is so concentrated and so pure, with lush, velvety sensuality that reminds me of great Pomerol. But there’s also almost breathtaking brightness, thanks to the magical combination of gamay and granite. Great mineral freshness at the ripe yet pristine finish. Drink or hold.”
Fleurie
Situated just west of Moulin-à-Vent “The Lord of Beaujolais”, lies Fleurie, nicknamed “The Queen of Beaujolais”. This appellation offers some of the most delicate fruit forward wines from Beaujolais, with pleasant acid and soft tannins. “Fleur” in French means, flower, a good indication of the pronounced floral notes you can expect from this terroir.
Here are a few recommendations we have in stock now from Fleurie:
Domaine Anita Fleurie Les Moriers 2020 750ml $24 special, 35 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “Stunning black-cherry fruit is married to generous, fine tannins and very lively acidity that lights up this rather bold wine. So many violets and ripe blackberries that this well-structured wine slips down very easily. Quite some allspice character at the long finish. Drink or hold.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Anita Fleurie Poncie 2020 750ml $24 special, 25 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “Dense violet and sour-cherry nose with just a hint of licorice. Very fresh and vital with quite a serious tannins structure for a Beaujolais Cru, this is still very young with tremendous energy. Quite dry finish, but in a very positive way, and one that reminds me of wines from cooler locations in the Northern Rhone. Drink or hold.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Chiroubles
This appellation, boasts the highest altitude in Beaujolais, contributing concentrated sunlight to the terraced, granite rich vines. Chiroubles’s growing conditions support honest expressions of Gamay. Expect bright, exuberant fruit with well integrated acidity, and structural soundness. Chiroubles is the perfect wine to accommodate a range of palates, a solid option to bring to upcoming holiday festivities, including our selections below.
In Stock Now:
Guy Breton Chiroubles 2018 750ml $33 special, 22 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2018 Chiroubles is a particular success, bursting with aromas of cherries, strawberries, dried flowers and licorice. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, melting and succulent, with an ample core of mouthwatering fruit and only the most ephemeral of structuring tannins, making for unimpeded drinkability—indeed, in a dark glass, this might be mistaken for a white wine.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Famille Dutraive Chiroubles 2020 750ml $38 special, 9 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote ” Jean-Louis Dutraive is one of the hottest names in the world of Natural Wine. His Domaine de la Grand’Cour is turning out some of the most impressive wines in Beaujolais, with big, rich textures and really vivacious personalities. His father bought the Domaine de la Grand’ Cour in 1969, and Jean-Louis took over eight years later, with great success. Both the winegrowing and winemaking remain in the tradition of Fleurie, where the family owns 22 of its 26 acres (the rest lying in Brouilly). Organic viticulture has kept the vines in healthy shape for decades now, and vine age hovers around fifty years old, with some over seventy. Harvesting by hand, low-temp carbonic maceration with only indigenous yeast, and no fining or filtering round out the prized recipe. These Beaujolais offer substance, and can age for a long time.”
Trending
Tan Fruit Maresh Vineyard Chardonnay, Dundee Hills 2019 750ml $69 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2019 Chardonnay Maresh Vineyard comes from Dijon clones planted in 1991, and it was matured in about 35% new oak. This vintage is pure and tensile, with scents of tarragon and fragrant herbs, beeswax and almonds, with plush white peach fruit. The palate combines intense ripe fruit with a spine of tangy, tense acidity, and it finishes with tremendous length. Allow it another 3-5 years in bottle.”
Perkins Harter Bracken Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2021 750ml $49 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Distributor note “Shelby Perkins and Peter Harter founded Bracken Vineyard with an eye for sustainable land management. Shelby & Peter farm organically and began utilizing biodynamic practices in 2019. Bracken Vineyard is perched on the western benchlands of the Eola Hills, with elevations of 630-730 feet and views that stretch up and down the Willamette Valley. Here, the soils are predominantly Nekia, Ritner, Witzel and Jory—all of volcanic origin but with varying depths.”
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2019 Chardonnay Maresh Vineyard comes from Dijon clones planted in 1991, and it was matured in about 35% new oak. This vintage is pure and tensile, with scents of tarragon and fragrant herbs, beeswax and almonds, with plush white peach fruit. The palate combines intense ripe fruit with a spine of tangy, tense acidity, and it finishes with tremendous length. Allow it another 3-5 years in bottle.”
Perkins Harter Bracken Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2021 750ml $49 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Distributor note “Shelby Perkins and Peter Harter founded Bracken Vineyard with an eye for sustainable land management. Shelby & Peter farm organically and began utilizing biodynamic practices in 2019. Bracken Vineyard is perched on the western benchlands of the Eola Hills, with elevations of 630-730 feet and views that stretch up and down the Willamette Valley. Here, the soils are predominantly Nekia, Ritner, Witzel and Jory—all of volcanic origin but with varying depths.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Bucklin Old Hill Ranch Ancient Field Blend 2020 750ml $39 special, 36 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: Looking for a chance to see how epic the 2020 vintage could have been across California? Will Bucklin was spared smoke taint on this wine (confirmed by laboratory tests). 15.3% ABV
Winery note “12 Acres, 35 grape varieties, 1 wine. Our “Ancient Field Blend” comes from the original vines that were planted on Old Hill Ranch in the 1880’s. Approximately 65% Zinfandel with the remaining varieties co harvested and fermented together. Includes Grenache, Alicante Bouschet, Petite Sirah, Grand Noir, Syrah, Carignan, and Mourvedre to name a few.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Beau Marchais Clos Pepe Vineyard Est Pinot Noir 2020 750ml $85 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94-96 points “The 2020 Pinot Noir Clos Pepe Est Vineyard saw 25% stems, 48 days on stems, and aging all in new barrels. Lots of mulberry, chocolate covered strawberries, and plum fruits as well as notes of orange blossom and spice emerge from the glass, and it’s a rich, full-bodied, textured beauty that packs one heck of a mid-palate. With ripe tannins and an expansive, supple texture, drink this hedonistic, sexy Pinot Noir on release and over the following 7-8 years.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Melka CJ Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ml $79 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “Open-knit, offering a gush of steeped plum and açaí berry flavors laced with licorice and ganache hints. Lightens up just a bit through the finish, as the structure is on the modest side, but the fruit is a joy to drink. Drink now through 2027. 1,300 cases made.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $96
The average price is $96
Peter Michael ‘Les Pavots’ Estate Red 2019 750ml $219 special, 13 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 99 points “This is very perfumed with blackberry and pine-cone aromas, as well as raspberries and black cherries. Full-bodied with firm, velvety tannins that are tight-grained. Creamy and beautiful. Currant and graphite flavors come through. Lightly chewy at the end. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 21% merlot, 14% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot. Drink after 2025.”
Winery note “The brilliant ruby-garnet 2019 ‘Les Pavots’ showcases an olfactory symphony of blackberry, dark chocolate, black cherry, and vanilla aromas, with supporting notes of tobacco, violets, and garrigue. A refined, elegant entry leads to a broad, graceful mid-palate with silky tannins, hints of black tea, blackberry pie, caramel, and cocoa powder, with a long, lingering finish. Approachable young, the 2019 ‘Les Pavots’ will reward four years of cellaring and continue to blossom for two decades.”
Castello di Verduno Barbaresco DOCG 2018 750ml $47 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2018 Barbaresco from Castello di Verduno is a very pretty, gracious wine with effusive aromatics, bright fruit and mid-weight structure. In other words, classic Barbaresco. Time in the glass brings out hints of sweet tobacco, mint, cedar and dried red cherry. The 2018 is such a gorgeous wine. Drink it over the next decade.”
Port Suitable for a King
Last week King Charles was treated to a decadent evening at his first state banquet as Head of the Commonwealth. The main course featured Grilled Brill with Wild Mushrooms and Truffles, Sorrel Sauce, Ballotine of Windsor Pheasant filled with Artichokes, Quince Compote and Port Sauce. Sides included a selection of assorted Chantenay Carrots, Kale with Roasted Butternut Squash, and Braised Fondant Potatoes. The dinner showcased an equally stunning lineup of wines including a bottle of Taylor’s Vintage Port. All of the wines were selected by the Royal Household Wine Committee, a prestigious collective of wine experts including esteemed British wine critic, Jancis Robinson OBE.
We’re thrilled here at Vinopolis to offer Port from the same producer, Taylor Fladgate, recently drunk at this high profile even! Treat yourself to a bottle fit for royalty.
Here are some of our available options from Taylor Fladgate:
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2016 750ml $99 special, 30 bottles in stock now
#4 Wine of the Year – James Suckling Top 100 in 2018
James Suckling 100 points “OMG. This is really the most amazing young Taylor’s I have ever tasted. Full-bodied and lightly sweet with super power and intensity. So racy and focused. Yet this has such muscle and intensity. Needs at least eight years to show you everything it has to offer. Drink in 2025.”
Wine Spectator 98 Points “This is packed with raspberry, blackberry and blueberry fruit flavors that play off one another, melding with anise, fruitcake and ganache notes. A warm tarry edge coats the finish, revealing an echo of bramble. A seriously grippy, strapping Port, this revels in its power. Best from 2032 through 2055.”
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2017 750ml $99 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2017 375ml $59 special, 6 half-bottles in stock now
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2017 1.5L $199 special, 6 magnums in stock now
#28 – James Suckling’s Top 100 Wines of the Year
James Suckling 99 points “Complex aromas of tar, wet earth, dark berry and flowers follow through to a full body, medium sweet and amazing compacted concentration. Vertical and so deep. It goes on for minutes. Truly excellent. Better after 2027.”
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 1977 750ml $299 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Note on condition of bottles: labels and bottles show wear and tear of 40 years in cellar.
Wine Spectator 97 points “Good ruby color still. The nose is fresh, with lots of crushed berry and plum, with a hint of piecrust. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and a caressing texture. This delivers loads of complex fruit and spiciness. Medium-sweet. A beauty. Will improve for decades, but why wait? ’77/’85/’97 blind Port retrospective. Drink now.”
Robert Parker 96 points “This house must certainly be the Latour of Portugal. Their ports are remarkably backward yet still impressive when young. Of all the vintage ports, those of Taylor need the longest time to mature and even when fully mature seem to have an inner strength and firmness that keep them going for decades. Their tawnys are also among the very best, though somewhat expensive. The 1977 has consistently been at the top of my list of vintage ports in this great vintage, although the Dow, Graham, and Fonseca are equally splendid. It is a mammoth, opaque, statuesque vintage port of remarkable depth and power, but is should not be touched before 2000.”
We’re thrilled here at Vinopolis to offer Port from the same producer, Taylor Fladgate, recently drunk at this high profile even! Treat yourself to a bottle fit for royalty.
Here are some of our available options from Taylor Fladgate:
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2016 750ml $99 special, 30 bottles in stock now
#4 Wine of the Year – James Suckling Top 100 in 2018
James Suckling 100 points “OMG. This is really the most amazing young Taylor’s I have ever tasted. Full-bodied and lightly sweet with super power and intensity. So racy and focused. Yet this has such muscle and intensity. Needs at least eight years to show you everything it has to offer. Drink in 2025.”
Wine Spectator 98 Points “This is packed with raspberry, blackberry and blueberry fruit flavors that play off one another, melding with anise, fruitcake and ganache notes. A warm tarry edge coats the finish, revealing an echo of bramble. A seriously grippy, strapping Port, this revels in its power. Best from 2032 through 2055.”
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2017 750ml $99 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2017 375ml $59 special, 6 half-bottles in stock now
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2017 1.5L $199 special, 6 magnums in stock now
#28 – James Suckling’s Top 100 Wines of the Year
James Suckling 99 points “Complex aromas of tar, wet earth, dark berry and flowers follow through to a full body, medium sweet and amazing compacted concentration. Vertical and so deep. It goes on for minutes. Truly excellent. Better after 2027.”
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 1977 750ml $299 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Note on condition of bottles: labels and bottles show wear and tear of 40 years in cellar.
Wine Spectator 97 points “Good ruby color still. The nose is fresh, with lots of crushed berry and plum, with a hint of piecrust. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and a caressing texture. This delivers loads of complex fruit and spiciness. Medium-sweet. A beauty. Will improve for decades, but why wait? ’77/’85/’97 blind Port retrospective. Drink now.”
Robert Parker 96 points “This house must certainly be the Latour of Portugal. Their ports are remarkably backward yet still impressive when young. Of all the vintage ports, those of Taylor need the longest time to mature and even when fully mature seem to have an inner strength and firmness that keep them going for decades. Their tawnys are also among the very best, though somewhat expensive. The 1977 has consistently been at the top of my list of vintage ports in this great vintage, although the Dow, Graham, and Fonseca are equally splendid. It is a mammoth, opaque, statuesque vintage port of remarkable depth and power, but is should not be touched before 2000.”
Thank you from the team at Vinopolis!
Be well & drink well.
Be well & drink well.