California Excellence: Morlet & Rhys 3-2-25

 

 

Morlet Vineyards: A Legacy of Passion and Precision

Morlet Vineyards was founded by Luc Morlet, a fifth-generation winemaker from Champagne, France. Luc moved to California in the late 1990s, bringing with him a rich heritage of traditional French winemaking. After gaining experience at notable wineries such as Peter Michael Winery, he and his wife Jodie established Morlet Vineyards in 2006. The estate specializes in a diverse portfolio, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends, and Syrah. Luc’s winemaking philosophy centers around “la vie en beauté,” meaning “life in beauty,” emphasizing elegance and balance in every bottle. The wines often receive critical acclaim, showcasing the winery’s dedication to small-lot, handcrafted production.

Signature wines such as the ‘Mon Chevalier’ Cabernet Sauvignon are celebrated for their complexity and age-worthiness. Morlet’s meticulous vineyard practices, including organic farming and careful canopy management, contribute to the exceptional quality of their fruit. Luc’s use of French oak, native yeast fermentations, and extended lees aging further enhances the depth and character of his wines.

This estate considers itself a “First-Growth” of California wine. We agree.

“Knights Valley is one of the most fascinating regions in Northern California. The AVA lies just north of Calistoga and is nestled between Alexander Valley, Chalk Hill and Fountaingrove in a corner of Sonoma County that feels quite remote and pastoral. Knights Valley excels with red and white Bordeaux varieties. The reds are marked by distinctive savory and mineral notes that, at times, recall the great wines of Pessac-Léognan… – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

Rhys Vineyards: Elevating the Art of Pinot Noir

Founded by Kevin Harvey in the early 2000s, Rhys Vineyards has become a benchmark producer of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Kevin, originally a passionate wine collector, transitioned into winemaking with a focus on terroir-driven wines that rival the greats of Burgundy. The estate includes seven vineyards, each selected for its unique soils, elevation, and microclimate. Rhys employs rigorous vineyard practices, including biodynamic and organic farming, to enhance the natural expression of each site.

Rhys wines are known for their structure, minerality, and elegance. Flagship wines such as the ‘Horseshoe Vineyard’ Pinot Noir exhibit remarkable balance and longevity. The winery is also renowned for its innovative use of whole-cluster fermentation, which adds aromatic complexity and texture to its wines. Rhys’ commitment to low intervention and natural winemaking ensures that each bottle is a true reflection of its terroir.
 

 

Buy any 3- 5 bottles for a 5% discount

Buy any 6+ bottles for a 10% discount

Sale ends Wednesday, March 5th at 9AM PST

Discounts will be applied after orders are received.

Selections from Morlet Vineyards…

Morlet Family Vineyards Coteaux Nobles Pinot Noir, Fort Ross-Seaview, USA 2014 750ml $119 special, 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 91 points

Morlet Family Vineyards Coteaux Nobles Pinot Noir, Fort Ross-Seaview, USA 2018 750ml $124 special, 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 96 points

Morlet Family Vineyards En Famille Pinot Noir, Fort Ross-Seaview, USA 2018 750ml $124 special, 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 95+ points

Morlet Family Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, USA 2015 750ml $179 special, 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95+ points

Morlet Family Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, USA 2017 750ml $189 special, 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95+ points

Morlet Family Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, USA 2019 750ml $199 special, 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 96 points

Morlet Family Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, USA 2016 750ml $169 special, 2 bottles available
Lisa Perrotti-Brown – Wine Advocate 96+ Points