In This Newsletter:
Provence Sale
Close-Out Featurette: Gaja the Great
Provence Sale
Close-Out Featurette: Gaja the Great
Stock Up & Save On
Red, White, and Pink Wines of Provence
Red, White, and Pink Wines of Provence
The southern French winemaking region of Provence has been home to carefully tended grapevines for over 2,600 years. Many of today’s estates rest on the ancient remains of 1,000-year-old wineries. Here, one finds well known and obscure varieties such as Grenache, Syrah, and Tibouren. Cinsault makes its mark, bringing lively acidity and rustic spice notes to rosé blends. The region is also a perfect home for Mourvèdre, where long-lived, expansive reds and rosés take flight.
Two of our favorite estates in the region include Peyrassol, known for its classic and affordable Provencal pinks, and Tempier, beloved for its long-lived rosés yet peerless for its bold and rustic reds.
Commanderie de Peyrassol
Likely established for viticulture by the Knights Templar, the Commanderie de Peyrassol estate has been producing wine since their first recorded harvest in 1256. The current iteration however was founded much more recently, with Francois Rigord undergoing extensive renovations to the estate in 1970.
Now certified organic and focused on old vines, Peyrassol is at the top of their game. The vines planted reflect Provencal wine as a whole, including Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah and Tibouren (an ancient variety native to the area). Their rosé portfolio encapsulates the essence of the region, featuring both highly age-worthy and collectable examples that are supremely easy-drinking.
Domaine Tempier
Domaine Tempier is Bandol. It is the most famous producer in the region, best known for its mineral-driven and cellar-friendly rosé. The reds, though, are criminally underrated and underappreciated, especially to lovers of bold, full-throttle wines. They represent the pinnacle of Mourvèdre-based blends that could convince even the most die-hard Rhone lovers to expand their horizons, if only one could manage to convince them to try. That might be the hardest part, but we’ve greased the wheel, so to speak, by placing these reds and all of our in-stock Bandol wines on our three-day sale, starting now.
If you aren’t familiar with the Tempier reds (or Bandol in general) know that these are big and rich with a distinct earthiness and a spicy, bright finish. Historically, they were quite tannic as well, but Tempier has made current releases drinkable on release (we just suggest a healthy decant). Oh, and in case you’re wondering, they age remarkably. Mourvèdre effortlessly transcends its decades much like Nebbiolo. So, pick up a few and prepare to have your mind blow now and for decades to come.
Shop these picks and more from Provence during our three-day sale!
Two of our favorite estates in the region include Peyrassol, known for its classic and affordable Provencal pinks, and Tempier, beloved for its long-lived rosés yet peerless for its bold and rustic reds.
Commanderie de Peyrassol
Likely established for viticulture by the Knights Templar, the Commanderie de Peyrassol estate has been producing wine since their first recorded harvest in 1256. The current iteration however was founded much more recently, with Francois Rigord undergoing extensive renovations to the estate in 1970.
Now certified organic and focused on old vines, Peyrassol is at the top of their game. The vines planted reflect Provencal wine as a whole, including Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah and Tibouren (an ancient variety native to the area). Their rosé portfolio encapsulates the essence of the region, featuring both highly age-worthy and collectable examples that are supremely easy-drinking.
Domaine Tempier
Domaine Tempier is Bandol. It is the most famous producer in the region, best known for its mineral-driven and cellar-friendly rosé. The reds, though, are criminally underrated and underappreciated, especially to lovers of bold, full-throttle wines. They represent the pinnacle of Mourvèdre-based blends that could convince even the most die-hard Rhone lovers to expand their horizons, if only one could manage to convince them to try. That might be the hardest part, but we’ve greased the wheel, so to speak, by placing these reds and all of our in-stock Bandol wines on our three-day sale, starting now.
If you aren’t familiar with the Tempier reds (or Bandol in general) know that these are big and rich with a distinct earthiness and a spicy, bright finish. Historically, they were quite tannic as well, but Tempier has made current releases drinkable on release (we just suggest a healthy decant). Oh, and in case you’re wondering, they age remarkably. Mourvèdre effortlessly transcends its decades much like Nebbiolo. So, pick up a few and prepare to have your mind blow now and for decades to come.
Shop these picks and more from Provence during our three-day sale!
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Provence wine
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Provence wine
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
Sale ends Tuesday, February 11th at 9 am Pacific.
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Provence wine
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
Sale ends Tuesday, February 11th at 9 am Pacific.
We offer twenty-eight in-stock Provence options on sale now, including:
Domaine Tempier Bandol Blanc, Provence 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Tempier’s Blanc, with its delicate florals, subtle note of anise, and stony finish, tastes perfect alongside shellfish or grilled seafood. After a few years in your cellar, pair it with cheeses or serve it alone to appreciate the “honeyed and marine aromas” that develop with age.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rosé, Provence 2023 750ml Displayed Price: $26.50, that’s $25.18 at 5% off and $23.85 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 92 points “A smoky rosé, with an alluring mix of fruit and earth notes. Shows a lot of presence, depth and complexity, with a streak of saline in tandem with red currant– and clementine-laced acidity. A characterful wine that vibrates with energy and harmony. Grenache, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2027.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Peyrassol Château Peyrassol Rosé, Cotes de Provence 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $41.90, that’s $39.81 at 5% off and $37.71 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 92 points “The 2022 Rosé opens with a savory bouquet, blending dusty dried flowers with ginger, cardamom and a touch of dried peaches. This washes across the palate with opulent textures while remaining remarkably fresh and light on its feet. Sweet spices and ripe orchard fruit swirl throughout. The Château Peyrassol cleans up beautiful, pure, fresh and perfumed. It ends on a salty flourish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Peyrassol Le Clos Rosé, Cotes de Provence 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 14 bottles in stock now
Peyrassol Le Clos Rosé, Cotes de Provence 2021 1.5L Was $119, Now $99, 13 magnums in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Vivid onion skin color. A highly perfumed and complex bouquet evokes fresh citrus and pit fruits, strawberry and pungent flowers, along with building mineral and succulent herb elements. Shows excellent clarity and depth to its juicy red fruit, nectarine and mango flavors, which are sweetened by a background of vanilla note. Finishes impressively long and silky, with the mineral and floral note resonating.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Peyrassol Le Clos Rosé, Cotes de Provence 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $77, that’s $73.15 at 5% off and $69.30 at 10% off, 7 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 93 points “The 2022 Rosé Le Clos Peyrassol keeps the glass in constant motion. Swirling unlocks depths of dried apricot and peaches, complicated by sweet smoke and mint. This is deeply textural, creamy yet lively all the same, with tantalizing acidity and vividly ripe orchard fruits perfectly contrasted by ginger. Cooling and poised, yet still juicy on the palate, the 2022 finishes with admirable length, leaving green melon and inner florals to fade slowly.”
Domaine Ray-Jane Bandol Rouge, Provence 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 7 bottles in stock now
“Cooked dark fruit, mocha, rich chocolate and interesting farmyard notes, before a smoky finish.” -Decanter Magazine
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Peyrassol Château Peyrassol Rouge, Cotes de Provence 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $51.90, that’s $49.31 at 5% off and $46.71 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “60% Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Grenache. With its purple tints, this wine gives off notes of ripe Syrah from the first nose: licorice, pepper, and peony then give way to a beautiful procession of small red and black fruits. The palate is beautifully mature, supported by velvety tannins and smooth acidity. Intense flavors of red fruit, blackberry, and spices caress the palate until the round, fleshy finish. A vintage of fine balance and noble elegance.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Tempier Bandol Pour Lulu Rouge, Provence 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $56, that’s $53.20 at 5% off and $50.40 at 10% off, 6 bottles in stock now
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 91-93 points “Tasted from foudre, the 2020 Bandol Cuvee Classique had been blended the week before my visit. Already showing classic notes of tree bark and truffle layered against cherries and raspberries and a touch of olive, it looks relatively precocious. In the mouth, it’s medium to full-bodied, concentrated and rich, with a long, plush finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge, Provence 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Falstaff Magazine 93 points “Vivid notes of ripe strawberry immediately hit the nose with red-fruited charm, opening up into aromatic notes of summer pudding. The palate is smooth and just as fruity. This is rounded and medium bodied, brimming with that ripe, fresh berry fruit and an ample, full-fruited yet utterly fresh, summery richness.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine Tempier Bandol ‘Lulu & Lucien’ Rouge, Provence 2022 1.5L Displayed Price: $135, that’s $128.25 at 5% off and $121.50 at 10% off, 3 magnums in stock now
Winery Note “The Estate’s prominent cuvée blends the discrete strength of Bandol with the elegance and finesse which characterize Tempier. This complexity is a result of different terroirs of the estate and the variety of its clay-limestone soil located around the Estate but also in La Cadière, Sainte Anne d’Evenos, and Ollioules. There are sandy marls, limestone greseux from santonien, rudist limestone and recent barely deep horizons of colluvions. Plus, there are various sun or wind exposures. Composition: Mourvèdre (~ 75%) with Grenache and Cinsault and a smaller proportion of Carignan and Syrah. Average age of the vines: 35 – 40 years.”
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge Cuvee Cabassaou, Provence 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $128, that’s $121.60 at 5% off and $115.20 at 10% off, 6 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The Cabassaou cuvée (ça cabasse = gives a hefty punch) is from a terroir with small stone walls, at the bottom of the Tourtine, protected from the Mistral wind. The vines benefit from a very warm micro-climate with thermal winds. Paradoxically the vines are located at the bottom of the hill but the soil is not deep and the yields are very small. They give a very dense, tight wine, typically Mourvèdre, with an exceptional aging potential. Composition: Mourvèdre (92 to 94%), with Syrah and a bit of Cinsault. Average age of the vines : 60 years minimum.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Tempier Bandol La Migoua, Provence 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $81.80, that’s $77.71 at 5% off and $73.62 at 10% off, 20 bottles in stock now
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2020 Bandol la Migoua—tasted from foudre—is a bit tarry and rubbery (expected, to some degree, in young Mourvèdre-based wines) but opens up to reveal seductive, ripe notes of blackberries and mulberries. A blend of approximately 55% Mourvèdre, 25% Cinsault, 15% Grenache and 5% Syrah, it’s medium to full-bodied on the palate, concentrated but silky in feel and elegant on the long finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine Tempier Bandol La Migoua, Provence 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $84.50, that’s $80.28 at 5% off and $76.05 at 10% off, 7 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “In 2021, this cuvée recalls the classique above, but with everything dialed up a notch. Savory and structured, it evokes Provençal garrigue, licorice, and a hint of black olive. This bottling is a strong candidate for your cellar but also open enough to pair wonderfully with a ribeye today.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge Cuvee La Tourtine, Provence 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 21 bottles in stock now
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 94-96 points “Mainly Mourvèdre (85%), with Cinsault and Grenache, the 2020 Bandol la Tourtine was still in foudre at the time of my visit last year. Scents of cola, smoke and red berries provide ample complexity on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is concentrated and almost creamy in texture while remaining fresh and dynamic on the lengthy finish.”
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge Cuvee La Tourtine, Provence 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $84.50, that’s $80.28 at 5% off and $76.05 at 10% off, 17 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “At this stage, La Tourtine is the most open, fruit-forward, and alluring of the three reds here. Zesty and vibrant, with notes of black cherries, blood orange, and iron, this bottle will be hard to keep your hands off now. But do yourself a favor and grab at least a few bottles to revisit in five, ten, and twenty years from now. There are few pleasures like aged Bandol rouge from Tempier.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine de Trevallon, IGP Alpilles 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 2 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points “From a marginally cooler, damper year, the Syrah and Cabernet are already beginning to meld together. Tightly youthful and closed, this needs either advance decanting or be allowed to age for a few years. Fresh, vibrant notes of blue flowers and dark berry fruit on the nose opens out to concentrated, ripe blackberries, the vibrant kick of sloes and powerful, bitter black chocolate tannins, finishing with aromatic notes of black pepper and sweet allspice. (Drink between 2025-2045).”
Gaja is an iconic producer in the world of wine. What DRC is to Burgundy, Gaja’s cru bottlings are to Piedmont—they are the wines that put the region on the modern wine collector’s map, desirable long before anything else in their appellation was. At our Close-Out prices, you’ll have a hard time finding something more collectible and profound.
In Stock and On Close-Out Sale Now:
Gaja Dagromis, Barolo DOCG 2019 750ml Was $125, Now $108, 3 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “2019 Dagromis has a garnet color with violet highlights. On the nose, this wine showcases floral and fruity notes of violet, cherry, plum, sweet licorice, ginger, and marzipan. On the palate, delicate showing juicy, cherry-like mouthfeel leads to a savory, yet sweet entry with a subtle tannin structure all characteristics of the vintage. This is a classic Barolo with great aging potential.”
In Stock and On Close-Out Sale Now:
Gaja Dagromis, Barolo DOCG 2019 750ml Was $125, Now $108, 3 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “2019 Dagromis has a garnet color with violet highlights. On the nose, this wine showcases floral and fruity notes of violet, cherry, plum, sweet licorice, ginger, and marzipan. On the palate, delicate showing juicy, cherry-like mouthfeel leads to a savory, yet sweet entry with a subtle tannin structure all characteristics of the vintage. This is a classic Barolo with great aging potential.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Gaja Darmagi Langhe, Piedmont 2017 750ml Was $249, Now $219, 2 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 94+ points “The 2017 Darmagi (Cabernet Sauvignon) is gorgeous. Ample, silky and voluptuous to its core, Darmagi offers tons of immediacy and sheer appeal. Today, the 2017 is all about fruit richness and texture. Readers who prefer to see a full range of Cabernet aromatics should plan on cellaring the 2017 for at least a few years. Hints of blackberry jam, mocha, licorice and spice linger, but more than anything else, the 2017 is all about flamboyance. This is an especially strong vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Gaja Pieve Santa Restituta, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2018 750ml Was $115, Now $89, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine & Spirits Magazine 92 points “This is the most high-toned of Gaja’s three 2018 Brunellos, a portion of the fruit coming from the Torrenieri vineyard in Montalcino’s cooler northeastern corner. Hints of oregano and citrus peel accent the tangy red cherry flavors, with lingering hints of smoke and spice on the finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Gaja Pieve Santa Restituta Rennina, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2018 750ml Was $236, Now $199, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Harmonious and bordering on creamy in texture, this red features cherry, raspberry, plum, loam, almond and black pepper aromas and flavors. Reveals pleasant bitterness as this winds down on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2026 through 2045.”
Gaja Pieve Santa Restituta ‘Sugarille’, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2018 750ml Was $259, Now $219, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “A dark, brooding 2018, with accents of smoke, vanilla, iron and tar surrounding a core of cherry and plum flavors. Reveals balsamic elements of eucalyptus and wild herbs on the lingering finish. On the austere side now, with a core of fruit and mineral. Best from 2025 through 2043.”
Gaja Sito Moresco Rosso Langhe, Piedmont 2021 750ml Was $75, Now $64.50, 4 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “A beautiful violet color atypical of Nebbiolo but reflective of the 2021 vintage where fullness and richness are even present to the eye. The wine has bold notes of blackberry, cherry, blood orange, and bergamot with a touch of flintiness. Medium-structured with lots of juiciness and harmony on the palate all lead to well-balanced acidity and tannin structure with a long finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
We offer 172 wines on our Close-Out Sale in stock now.
Shop the sale on our webstore now!
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
L’Aventure and La Jota
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of L’Aventure and La Jota
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of L’Aventure and La Jota
Scavino
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Scavino
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Scavino
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
L’Aventure and La Jota sale ends Saturday, February 8th at 9 am Pacific. Scavino sale ends Sunday, February 9th at 9 am Pacific.