February 28, 2015
Rare Napa Wine – Extremely Limited Availability
Retrospective Reviews by Robert Parker on their 10 birthdays
Arriving March 6th
Freemark Abbey ‘Bosche’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 2004 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 94+ points “The 2004 Cabernet Bosche Vineyard, which sits on alluvial, gravelly soils in Rutherford and is one of Napa’s most famous vineyards, is absolutely brilliant. The blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot spent 24 months in French oak. This one is still young for a 2004. Its dense purple color, big sweet kiss of cola, vanilla, cedarwood, oodles of black currants and dark cherries, a hint of licorice and unsmoked cigar tobacco, make for a classic almost Pauillac-like style of wine. This is youthful, full-bodied, promising and should hit its peak in another 4-5 years and last at least another two decades.” RP – 2014 Retrospective tasting
Freemark Abbey ‘Sycamore’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 2002 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 95 points “The superstar of this trio is the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Sycamore, which comes from a vineyard planted in gravelly soils about a mile south of the Bosche Vineyard. Composed of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc, it is a deeper, fuller, more complete effort displaying blacker fruit flavors. Notes of blackberries, cassis, licorice, charcoal, graphite and dark chocolate emerge from this opaque-colored, full-bodied, muscular, back-strapping Cabernet. Give it another 2-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 15+.” RP– 2012 Retrospective tasting
Freemark Abbey ‘Sycamore’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 2004 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Kudos to winemaker Ted Edwards. Lastly, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Sycamore Vineyard, which is just to the south of Bosche, is 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, from the gravelly, clay and loamy soils of this area. It, too, was aged 24 months in French oak and seems dense, full-bodied, powerful and backward as well. Most of the 2004s are far more open than this cuvee and the Bosche, but there is plenty of ripe fruit, moderate tannin and a deep black currant, blackberry, smoky sweetness, with a full, voluminous mouth texture. Give this one another 2-3 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 15-20.” RP– 2014 Retrospective tasting
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39 Wines Good & Great
39 Wine Deals Great & Greater
OREGON
Boedecker Cellars Athena Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2012 750ML ($34.95) Was $29, Now $24, 8 bottles available
Winery note “Smooth, spicy, currant and plum flavors”
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Coelho Winery Paciencia Estate Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2011 750ML ($49.95) Was $33, Now $29, 23 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Bright red. High-pitched aromas of strawberry, blood orange and white pepper, with a musky rhubarb nuance coming up with air. Lively and sharply focused, offering spicy red fruit flavors and a hint of bitter chocolate. Racy and clean on the finish, which shows no obvious tannins and a zesty orange pith quality.” ST
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WASHINGTON
Long Shadows Chester Kidder Red, Columbia Valley 2007 1.5L ($149.95) Was $119, Now $99, 4 magnums available
Stephen Tanzer 93+ points “Medium red. Lovely Old World earthiness on the nose, along with brown spices and red rose. Then fresh, suave and layered in the mouth, with enticing floral lift to the dark berry, licorice, mocha and mineral flavors. This really spreads out to saturate the palate, but with perfume rather than weight. Finishes very long, with broad tannins, harmonious acidity and hints of mocha and pepper. A beauty. Chester-Kidder is the project of resident Long Shadows winemaker Gilles Nicault.”ST
CALIFORNIA
Araujo Estate Eisele Vineyard Syrah, Napa Valley 2004 750ML ($179.95) Was $149, Now $79, 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “Syrah has done well in this climate, and the 2004 Syrah Eisele Vineyard is a more elegant, lighter-styled wine than I thought from tasting it last year. It is still well-delineated with a dark ruby/purple color, floral and blackberry notes, a subtle peppery touch and a hint of meat. The wine is pretty and does include a small percentage of Viognier in the blend (usually around 3-4%). Unfortunately, the production of this wine is only around 300-400 cases.” RP
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Araujo Estate Eisele Vineyard Syrah, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($249.95) Was $189, Now $149, 10 bottles available
Robert Parker 96 points “Another standout, the 2010 Syrah Eisele Vineyard is drop-dead gorgeous. A bevy of black olives and plums burst from the glass in an explosive wine loaded with varietal nuance and sheer power. The cooler vintage brought out the best. This is a marvelous, totally compelling wine endowed with massive concentration and depth. The addition of 3% Viognier and a small amount of stems add complexity. Black fruit, tobacco, savory herbs, licorice and menthol are layered into the brooding finish.” RP
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FRANCE-BORDEAUX
Chateau Climens, Barsac 2004 375ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $29, 36 half-bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Shows apricot tart, with hints of candied lemons on the nose. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with lovely concentration and a lemony, spicy, almost flinty aftertaste. Impressive for the vintage. Very lively and zingy on the finish. Best after 2009.”WS
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Chateau d’Yquem, Sauternes 1995 750ML ($319.95) Was $279, Now $219, 17 bottles available
Neal Martin Wine Journal 95-97 points “Tasted at the chateau. O.K. – I think this is better than the 1990! Intense hue. Brilliant expressive apricot/orangey nose with tonnes of botrytis. Unctuous and fat. Slightly lower in acidity than other vintages. Very concentrated with an incredibly intense finish.”
Chateau Certan de May de Certan, Pomerol 2005 750ML ($179.95) Was $149, Now $99, 10 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Blackberry and green tobacco aromas, with hints of coffee bean, follow through to a full body, with big, velvety tannins and a complex finish of dark chocolate and berry. Chewy and muscular, yet caressing and pretty.” WS
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FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Domaine Blain-Gagnard Morgeot, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2009 750ML ($79.95) Was $69, Now $49, 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2009 Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot shows the breadth of this site in its rich, generous fruit. Despite its size, the Morgeot retains gorgeous freshness and vivacity, although the style is very much one that emphasizes a soft, textured expression of fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2012+. ” WA
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The average price is $65
Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot Les Epenottes, Beaune Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($89.95) Was $69, Now $59, 12 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 88-90 points “Good full red. Aromatic nose offers black cherry, licorice, violet and chocolate, plus complicating hints of leather and smoke. Not fleshy but juicy and intense, with the black fruit, violet and chocolate notes carrying through on the palate. Finishes with supple, fine-grained tannins.” ST
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Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot Les Jarollieres, Pommard Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $89, Now $69, 10 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 89-91 points ” Medium red-ruby. Aromas of black cherry and mocha; less floral and complex than the Volnay cuvees. Sweet and chewy on entry, then a bit cool, even austere, in the middle, showing a medicinal cast to the black fruit and chocolate flavors. Holding a lot in reserve but distinctly taut and clenched today. Finishes with tight tannins. Seems less ripe and rich than the Volnay Pitures.” ST
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Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot Volnay 2011 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $39, 11 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Light, bright red. Dark berries and spices complicated by licorice and game on the nose. Supple, round and juicy, with plum and underbrush flavors showing both sweet and savory qualities. In a more flattering style than the Beaune Epenottes, and the fine dusting of tannins will not get in the way of early enjoyment.” ST
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Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot Carelle Sous La Chapelle, Volnay Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($89.95) Was $79, Now $69, 12 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “Good bright red. Red berries, musky minerals and soil tones on the nose and palate. Supple, sweet and moderately rich; less suave than the village wine but stylish nonetheless. Finishes with good length and slightly drying tannins that hit the palate late.” ST
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Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot Pitures, Volnay Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $75, Now $48, 7 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Bright pale red. Good red fruit lift on the nose, with complicating notes of menthol, minerals and game. Suave, juicy and fresh, offering lovely definition and cut to the flavors of red fruits and orange zest. Pulpy, bright wine with plenty of fruit intensity. Finishes sweet and long. Drink this now or hold it for five or six years.” ST
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Francois Carillon Les Referts, Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 11 bottles available
Burghound 90-93 points “A reductive note along with a touch of petrol presently dominates the nose. There is a silky mouth feel to the solidly well-concentrated, intense and vibrant middle weight flavors where the underlying mineral component is even more prominent, all wrapped in a gorgeously long finish. This is not quite as refined as the Combettes but there’s just more here.”BH
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Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Bousselots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $69, 19 bottles available
Burghound 89-91 points “The well-layered mélange of red currant, blue berry and wet stone nuances marries seamlessly into slightly earthy, precise and energetic flavors that possess a firm but not hard tannic spine, all wrapped in a delicious and saline-infused finish. This is also quite understated yet stylish and I very much like the purity of expression.” BH
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Domaine Robert Chevillon Aux Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $69, 23 bottles available
Burghound 89-91 points “Here too discreet wood spice frames a pretty and cool mix of red and dark pinot fruit that is trimmed in warm earth nuances that are also reflected by the refined, pure and silky middle weight flavors. There is fine complexity and verve to the well-defined and persistent finish. A classic Chaignots of grace and harmony with no lack of aging potential.” BH
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Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Pruliers, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $69, 10 bottles available
John Gilman 93 points “The 2011 Chevillon Pruliers is a classic in the making, with its very black fruity and soildriven personality delivering a complex and very pure bouquet of black cherries, dark berries, gamebirds, fresh herb tones, woodsmoke, dark soil tones and coffee bean. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and quite broad-shouldered, with a rock solid core of fruit, excellent soil drive, ripe tannins and a very long, precise and transparent finish. Like the 2010 Pruliers, the 2011 is a very elegant young rendition of this fine wine.” JG
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Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Roncieres, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $69, 24+ bottles available
Burghound 90-93 points “There is a trace of herbal tea that adds breadth to the otherwise exceptionally fresh and equally pure red currant and wild cherry aromas. There is really beautiful intensity to the precise flavors that are on the lighter side yet deliver that wonderful quality of power without weight. This is first rate as it’s balanced, harmonious and offers excellent depth and length.”BH
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Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Vaucrains, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($119.95) Was $99, Now $69, 19 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91-94 points “Deep, bright ruby-red. Black raspberry and chocolate aromas are complemented by sweet oak. Less refined than the Saint-Georges or Cailles but solidly built and quite powerful, with a youthfully medicinal character to the blast of dark fruit flavors. Extremely primary and impressively long. This may need the most patience of this excellent set of 2008s”ST
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Domaine Robert Chevillon Nuits-Saint-Georges Vieilles Vignes, Cote de Nuits 2007 750ML ($54.95) Was $49, Now $39, 8 bottles available
Burghound 91 points “Elegant and beautifully expressive aromas of white fruits and flowers trimmed in noticeable wood introduce detailed, fine and mineral-infused medium weight flavors that are both sappy and precise on the impressively persistent finish. This is beautifully well-balanced though the wood is hardly restrained.”
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Clos de Tart Grand Cru Monopole, Cote de Nuits 2007 750ML ($499.95) Was $249, Now $219, 15 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Intense aromas of graphite and mineral make an immediate impact, with black cherry, black currant and spice flavors adding depth and dimension. This has concentration and a juicy texture, pushing the long, peppery aftertaste. Shows fine harmony and expression overall. Best from 2012 through 2024.” WS
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Chateau de La Tour Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru Classique, Cote de Nuits 2011 750ML ($139.95) Was $109, Now $99, 5 bottles available
Burghound 91-94 points “Subtle wood influence sets off notably ripe and dense aromas of violets, plum, earth and various floral nuances. There is excellent richness and power to the big-bodied, intense and well-delineated flavors that enjoy an impressive reserved of mouth coating dry extract, all wrapped in a very firm but impeccably well-balanced finish. This impressive effort should amply reward 12 to 15 years of cellar time.”BH
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Chateau de La Tour Clos de Vougeot Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2011 750ML ($219.95) Was $179, Now $159, 9 bottles available
Burghound 92-95 points “Deep ruby. Here the wood is relatively generous and less well-integrated though the aromatic profile of the ever-so-slightly riper nose is otherwise quite similar. There is more size, weight, power and concentration to the imposingly constructed flavors that are both supported and shaped by the tightly wound and extremely firm tannins, all wrapped in a mouth coating and hugely persistent finish. This displays terrific potential but it is a wine to buy only if you have the wherewithal and patience to wait.” BH
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The next best price is $170
FRANCE-RHONE
Mas de Boislauzon Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Quet, Rhone 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 8 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94-96+ points “Even more impressive and a candidate for the wine of the vintage, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Quet (pronounced “kay”) is a blend of 80% tank-aged Grenache and 20% barrel-aged Mourvedre. A big, massive wine, with decadent roasted herbs, black and red fruits, licorice and scorched earth, this full-bodied, mouth-filling and brilliantly concentrated effort doesn’t lack for texture or richness, yet remains fresh and very drinkable. It should drink well for 15-20 years. Drink 2014-2032. Run by the brother and sister team of Daniel and Christine Chaussy, this brilliant estate covers just over 20 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape, most of which are in the northern part. They produce up to three Chateauneufs in top vintages and one white. In addition, their Vin de France and Cotes du Rhone Villages are always superb and sell for a song. Note: there was no Cuvee du Quet or le Tinto produced in 2011, and no Tinto in 2012.” WA
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M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Meal 2010 750ML ($319.95) $299 special, 2 bottles available
Robert Parker 99 points “From the warmest site of these three vineyards, the 2010 Ermitage Le Meal has sweet creme de cassis, blackberry, bacon fat and a meaty, bloody steak component to its richness. It has good acidity, but is clearly the most voluptuous and succulent of this quartet of monumental wines from one of the greatest appellations for wine in the world, Hermitage. This wine needs a good decade of cellaring and should continue to evolve for 40-50+ years.”WA
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M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon 2010 750ML ($399.95) $349 special, 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 100 points “Tasting like the concentrated blood from an aged and grilled strip steak, the 2010 Ermitage Le Pavillon boasts a black/purple color along with creme de cassis, camphor, pen ink, white flower and lead pencil shaving characteristics in its massive, full-bodied personality. It almost defies description because of its ethereal concentration and off-the-charts extract levels. This is not for the faint of heart, or those who lack patience, as it will require 10-15 years of bottle age, and, as previously stated, will keep for 50 or more. There are just over 1,000 cases of the 2010 Le Pavillon, another perfect wine in the constellation of profound wines produced by Michel Chapoutier.” RP
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M. Chapoutier Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne 2007 750ML ($129.95) Was $99, Now $89, 20 bottles available
Robert Parker 90-93 points “The 2007 Ermitage La Sizeranne displays a similar deep ruby/purple-tinged color in addition to sweet aromas of raspberries, black currants, smoke, gun flint, and spice. This full-bodied, well-made wine reveals outstanding richness, purity, and overall balance. Consume it over the next 15-20 years.” RP
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FRANCE-OTHER
Domaine Comte Abbatucci ‘CN’ Cuvee Collection Rouge, Corsica, Vin de France NV 750ML ($84.95) Was $71.90, Now $69, 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points [2011 Base Vintage] “Abbatucci’s 2011 cn (whose name indeed appears in lower-case letters on this wine’s label) issues from six-year-old vines of the traditional, but now rare variety, Carcajolhu Nero, part of his ongoing project to restore cepage diversity and re-propagate ancient genetic material, building on his father Antoine’s rescue work begun in the early 1960s. The result – raised in demi-muids and tank – is nothing less than fascinating and delicious; although, on the evidence at hand from this early essay with young vines, Carcajolhu Nero’s personality will appeal most to those with relatively high tolerance for acidity and astringency. Imagine red currant and cherry macerated on their pits and pips as well as on mustard seeds. The effect is infectiously juicy and invigorating, with almost implacable bite and piquancy that have at least some distant yet useful analogy in a peppery Gruner Veltliner. I can only suggest that one pair some bottles with cuisine short-term, but also hold one or two simply to see what becomes of this after a few years in bottle.” WA
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Domaine Comte Abbatucci Ajaccio Faustine Vieilles Vignes Rose, Corsica 2013 750ML ($39.95) Was $34.50, Now $29, 1 bottle available
Stephen Tanzer 90 points (100% sciaccarellu, an Italian grape variety that is almost uniquely planted in Corsica): “Pale orange. Vibrant red berry, blood orange and floral aromas, with an intense mineral overlay and a hint of white pepper adding spiciness. Nervy and precise, offering juicy redcurrant and bitter citrus pith flavors, along with notes of succulent herbs and lavender. Spreads out and deepens on the finish, which clings with excellent focus and mineral-driven persistence.”-JR
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Domaine Leon Barral Faugeres Valiniere, Languedoc-Roussillon 2010 750ML ($79.95) Was $69, Now $59, 2 bottles available
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The next best price is $62.99
Chateau du Cayrou, Cahors 1985 1.5 L ($179.95) Was $149, Now $119, 3 magnums available
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ITALY-PIEDMONT
Azelia di Luigi Scavino ‘San Rocco’, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($89.95) Was $71.90, Now $66, 15 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Dark cherry, plum, smoke, menthol, melted road tar and graphite meld together in the 2010 Barolo San Rocco. A big, explosive wine, the 2010 blossoms in the glass with layers of deep, expressive fruit. The San Rocco is usually a wine of volume and breadth, at it is again in 2010. The firm Serralunga tannins are present, but they are also beautifully balanced. I can’t wait to see how the 2010 develops. Today, the San Rocco is young, young, young.”
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Castello di Verduno Barolo Massara, Barolo DOCG 2001 3 Liter ($399.95) Was $349, Now $299, 1 3-liter bottle available
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Domenico Clerico Arte Rosso Langhe, Piedmont 2011 1.5L ($89.95) Was $69, Now $59, 24+ magnums available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “(90% nebbiolo and 10% barbera; aged for 18 months in new French oak): Good medium red. Perfumed aromas and flavors of plum, redcurrant, tobacco and spices. Intense and vibrant, with lovely inner-mouth aromatic lift. Very classy, delineated wine.” ST
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ITALY-VENETO
Tommaso Bussola Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG, Veneto 2005 500ML ($59.95) $49 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2005 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is an easy going but superbly elegant wine that reveals expressive aromatics, jammy dark fruit, chocolate, licorice and spices, with an attractive plumminess and outstanding depth. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. “WA
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ITALY-TUSCANY
Marchesi Antinori Solaia Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2010 750ML ($299.95) Was $249, Now $189, 15 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 97+ points, Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2010 Solaia is even better than the Tignanello. Here, too, it is the wine’s energy and sheer vibrancy that stand out most. Blackberry jam, graphite, tar, espresso, violets, crushed rocks and spices all take shape in the glass. The 2010 is a wine I have followed since its infancy, and it has never failed to deliver the goods. Earlier this year I had a chance to taste every vintage of Solaia back to the inaugural 1978. It is still early, but there is little question the 2010 is one of the greatest – if not the single greatest – Solaia ever made.” AG
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The next best price is $197.96
Cerbaiona di Diego Molinari Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2008 750ML ($199.95) Was $140, Now $115, 9 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93+ points “Succulent red cherries, dried roses, violets, tar and spices are some of the many notes that are woven together in the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino. Intensely perfumed, the 2008 shows many of the classic Cerbaiona signatures, even if it is a touch less polished than some of the recent vintages. At the same time, the 2008 has come together nicely over the last few years, so it will be interesting to watch what happens with further time in bottle. Dried rose petals and spices add complexity to the subtle, layered flavors. This is one of the stronger wines of the year.”
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The average price is $175
GERMANY
Weingut A.J. Adam Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Mosel 2012 750ML ($99.95) Was $69, Now $59, 9 bottles available
Terry Theise: “Sterner stuff than the village wine; pointed intense aromas of blueberries and white iris and candied lemon. The palate is off the hinges! Entirely harmonious, rampantly exotic and rich, it’s like a Pfalz GG with more grace and less earthiness. Pink peppercorn and powder-puff, ginger and mustard-seed; stern slate on the finish after this thrill-ride of improbable elements for Riesling. The empty glass even smells a little like Savignin.”
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Produttori del Barbaresco
2010 Barbaresco Arriving Soon
Single Vineyard Riservas were not reserved;
They were all blended into this $26 bottle
In 1958, the Barbaresco village priest founded the Produttori del Barbaresco winemaking cooperative. He gathered 19 grape growers together to pool their resources to help survive against economic pressures. Their first three vintages were made in the church basement until their winery was built across the square. Aldo Vacca is the current director of Produttori and the cousin of Renato Vacca, winemaker and owner of the Cantina del Pino. Today, the winery produces a Langhe Nebbiolo, a Barbaresco DOCG blend from a variety of vineyards and, in exceptional years, nine single-vineyard Barbarescos from their sites within the boundaries of the village: Pora, Asili, Ovello, Montefico, Montestefano, Pajé, Muncagota, Rabaja, and Rio Sordo. It is made up of about 50 farmers who own approximately 250 acres of vineyards in Barbaresco, amounting to about 1/6th of total Barbaresco vineyard land. The name of the owners of the vineyards and total bottles produced are written on the labels.
Produttori del Barbaresco is revered for its commitment to quality and transparent winemaking, producing classically-styled Barbaresco and Riservas that allow a rare chance to taste the true terroir of each vineyard site. The grape growers are paid based on the quality of their grapes instead of quantity, which helps provide financial incentive to grow the best possible grapes and to harvest at the optimal time for each parcel. Each grower’s delivery of grapes is rated during crush based on the sugar, color and tannin. The grapes are macerated for four weeks before the wine is aged in large neutral oak casks 25 to 100 hectoliters in size. The single-vineyard wines (all are Reservas) spend three years in barrel and the Barbaresco DOCG spends 20 months.
In Asili, the grapes are from calcium-rich limestone vineyard land, and produces exceptionally rich and age-worthy wines. The Montefico vineyard is exposed to strong winds during the growing season, but is generally a warmer vineyard. The vineyard produces intensely mineral wines of great elegance with spicy fruit and exceptional ageing potential from the calcareous limestone. The Montestefano vineyard produces a dark, ripe and rich wine with thick texture. It tends to show less minerality but be juicier than the Montefico. Muncagota has an unusual South-Eastern exposure with calcium-rich soil. It produces elegant and floral wines with lingering tannins and minty notes. Produttori is the only producer that bottles single-vineyard wines from this vineyard. The three ‘M’ vineyards, Montefico, Montestefano and Muncagota, all produce wines with greater tannic structure, due partly to their calcium- and sand-rich soils.
The Ovello vineyard produces wines that take the longest to age in bottle. Expect Ovello wines to be full with rich red fruit with some rustic characteristics due to the clay soil. With its South-Western and Western exposure, the Paje vineyard produces complex wines with bright red fruit aromas and very good acidity. Pora vineyard has some of the most fertile soil of the 9 crus of Produttori. The wines are more forward, floral and integrate tannin more quickly. The Produttori single-vineyard bottling of Rabaja first gained fame and a touch of mystique when a famous local restauranteur purchased the entire production of the 1971 vintage. Aldo Vacca describes this comparatively young vineyard as being the ‘quintessential Barbaresco’ wine of their single-vineyard bottlings. Wines from the Rabaja are complex with silky tannins and dark fruit aromas.
With the 2010 vintage, the cooperative decided to skip single-vineyard bottlings. All of the Barbaresco DOCG wine is produced from what would otherwise be single-vineyard wine.
Arriving Late March 2015
Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Barbaresco DOCG’ 2010 750ML ($34.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Barbaresco DOCG’ 2010 750ML ($349.95) $289 pre-arrival special (that’s only $24.08/bottle!)
James Suckling 92 points “Beautiful aromas of white truffles, plums and berries. Hints of spices. Full to medium body with fine tannins and beautiful licorice, berry and fennel seed. Very pretty length. Drinkable now but better in 2015.” JS
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “(as the Produttori has declassified its crus in 2010, there will be 28,000 cases of this blend): Tangy cherry and raspberry aromas are lifted by flowers and mint on the cool, inviting nose. Silky-sweet and floral, with lovely inner-mouth juiciness to its red berry flavors. Owing to the wine’s moderate body and flesh, the tannins show a slightly dryness but the long, juicy finish offers enticing floral perfume. A lovely, sharply delineated Barbaresco at a very reasonable price.” ST
Produttori del Barbaresco Wines Available Here Now
Produttori del Barbaresco Asili 2008 ($99.95) $79 special, 16 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “One of the absolute highlights in this portfolio of utterly amazing wines, the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Asili possesses marvelous depth and richness, but also little of the early approachability and sexiness of Asili. With time in the glass, the wine’s inner perfume gradually emerges, but ultimately this is a Barbaresco to bury in the deepest corner of the cellar. Once again, the Produttori have done a fabulous job with the Asili. The 2008 has nerves of steel and a huge, never-ending finish. It is by far the most imposing and structured Asili I have ever tasted from the Produttori. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico 2008 ($79.95) $59 special, 3+ cases available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico hits the palate with a blast of fruit intermingled with copious acidity and pure structure. Montefico shares a boundary with Ovello, and shows many of the structural elements typically associated with that side, but with more depth in its fruit, probably because of the southern exposure. The high altitude of these parcels ensures there is plenty of freshness and vibrancy. The Montefico is dazzling, but it will require considerable patience. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2048″
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano 2008 ($79.95) $59 special, 33 bottles available
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano 2008 1.5L ($139.95) $119 special, 10 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Among the more structured 2008s, the Montestefano is the wine that most hides its tannin, as the fruit is intensely perfumed, rich and totally seductive. Today the Montestefano provides the illusion of being relatively accessible, but it is virtually certain to shut down in bottle. The 2008 boasts striking aromatics, seemingly endless layers of fruit and power to burn. Readers can think of the Montestefano as a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabaja. Not bad, to say the least. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota 2008 ($59.95) $41.90 special, 24 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is arguably the most open and expressive of the 2008 Riservas. It presents a gorgeous soft core of fruit to match an open personality. Although I wouldn’t suggest opening any of the 2008 Riservas for pleasure anytime soon, readers who want to get an early look at the wines should start with the Muncagota. Sweet rose petals add nuance to the vibrant fruit on the structured finish. This is a great showing from the Muncagota. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello 2008 1.5L ($139.95) $119 special, 13 magnums available
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The Produttori’s 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a reference point wine for the village, even if, in truth, Ovello is a fairly diverse zone with many exposures. Firm, steely tannins support a core of expressive fruit in this vibrant, energetic Barbaresco. The 2008 is going to require considerable patience, but it is striking, even today. Sweet floral notes reappear on the vivid, utterly breathtaking finish, adding lift, precision and vibrancy. This is a stunning wine from the Produttori. The style is built on tension, energy and focus; in other words, all the qualities Ovello is known for. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Paje 2007 ($59.95) $44 special, 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Paje comes across as a bit simple in this vintage. It shows good fleshiness and lovely inner sweetness in a fairly approachable style. I don’t see the pedigree of the finest 2007 Riservas here. In exchange, though, readers will find a highly attractive, forward Barbaresco that will drink well right out of the gate. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora 2004 ($59.95) $49 special, 13 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2004 Pora is a dense, chewy offering loaded with ripe red cherries, licorice, tar and sweet wild herbs. The wine’s sheer concentration and power are impressive but today the tannins seem to lack the extra level of elegance that characterizes the best wines in this vintage. Despite its slightly rustic personality, this medium to full bodied wine delivers plenty of drinking pleasure in an intense style. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2024.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora 2007 ($59.95) $49 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is the revelation among the 2007s. Pora is one of the warmer microclimates in Barbaresco owing to its proximity to the Tanaro River. In most vintages Pora is a fairly open wine. The 2007 captures the very best qualities of this site in a radiant, deep expression of fruit. The wine literally covers every inch of the palate as it fleshes out in the glass. The Pora will never be one of the most complex wines here, but today it is immensely enjoyable, not to mention that the 2007 is one of the very finest Poras in recent memory. It will be great to drink young, but also appears to have the stuffing to age well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora 2008 ($79.95) $59 special, 20 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Playing true to type, the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is another of the more open wines in this vintage. But that is only in relative terms. Layers of expressive red fruit, crushed flowers and spices flesh out in this radiant Barbaresco. In most vintages the Pora is one of the more accessible of the Riservas when young. The close proximity of the vineyard to the Tanaro River results in a warm microclimate that ripens the fruit earlier than elsewhere. In 2008, though, the Pora packs a serious punch. The coolness of the late harvest comes through in a finish laced with considerable tension and minerality. This is easily one of the very best Poras I have ever tasted from the Produttori. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora 2009 ($59.95) $44 special, 2 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Firm tannins provide the backbone for the 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Pora. Bigger and richer on the palate than it often is, the 2009 Pora is also quite beautiful in this vintage. Sweet floral and mint notes wrap around the palate in this impeccable, beautifully balanced, mid-weight Barbaresco from the Produttori. The 2009 impresses for its pliancy and generosity. Today, the tannins are a bit four-squared, but there is enough depth in the fruit to make me think the wine will come together a little more fully with more time in bottle.” AG
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja 2007 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 2 magnums available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is a big, dark wine loaded with dark fruit, menthol, tar, flowers, mint, rosemary and an array of balsamic notes that develop in the glass. The Rabaja possesses stunning depth to match its muscular tannins. It is a dazzling wine endowed with tons of inner perfume and sheer personality as it saturates the palate from start to finish. Today, the Rabaja comes across as huge and almost Barolo like, but it has plenty of Rabaja character. Purists will want to age the wine for a number of years to allow the baby fruit to drop off, but the truth is, it is pretty stunning even today. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja 2008 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 14 bottles available
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja 2008 1.5L ($219.95) $199 special, 9 magnums available
Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is utterly magnificent in this vintage. Usually a powerhouse, the 2008 is incredibly refined to the point it seems to literally hover on the palate. It is a wine of exquisite grace and beauty. All the elements are in place. I could describe the aromas and flavors, but that would be doing this majestic Barbaresco a huge disservice. Ultimately, the 2008 Rabaja, is all about textural finesse and pure elegance. This is another breathtaking wine from the Produttori. A king among kings. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja 2009 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 26 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Dark cherries, menthol, cloves, cinnamon and leather wrap around the palate in the 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà. A rich, layered, enveloping wine, the Rabajà is a wine that shows plenty of character and personality. Deep, implosive and full of personality, the Rabajà is another wine that delivers tons of character, class and personality.” AG
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