3/23/16
Jump Start Sale; Casa Lapostolle; Angela Estate – New Arrival; Domaine Arlaud New Arrival (All Best Prices!); Magnien; Armand Rousseau – Best Price; New Review for Selbach Oster; Staff Picks; French Case Deals; Time to Say Good Buy
Jump Start Sale
Quintessential Côte Rôtie
Arriving Friday, March 25th
Domaine Jamet Côte Rôtie, Rhone 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Domaine Jamet Côte Rôtie, Rhone 2013 1.5L ($319.95) $279 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93-94 points “Tasted in components: #1, mostly Gerine, all destemmed: Zesty red fruit and floral aromas and flavors, with a mineral element providing spine and lift. Supple and seamless, with strong finishing cling. #2, mostly Gerine again but made with whole clusters: Spicy and precise, with bitter cherry and violet character and a deeper suggestion of licorice emerging with air. #3, a blend of Fontgeant, Leyat, Moutonne and Côte-Baudin: High-pitched red and dark berry scents, with complicating hints of incense, anise and smoky bacon. Very complex in the mouth, with sweet blackberry and cherry flavors picking up a minerally nuance on the finish, with the smoky note repeating. #4, from Le Plomb and Tartaras: Smoky and expansive on the nose and palate, offering black and blue fruit elements and a strong note of spicecake. Concentrated but lithe, finishing with strong thrust and sneaky tannins. #5, from Lancement, Côte-Rozier and Côte-Blonde: Heady, exotically perfumed bouquet of fresh dark fruits, pipe tobacco, Asian spices and incense, with a bright mineral flourish. Sappy, penetrating and pure, communicating excellent power to its sappy black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors. Harmonious and fruit-driven, with outstanding closing thrust. The final blend looks extremely promising, and the wine should show well within a few years of release. Having pretty extensive experience with Jamet’s wines I can vouch for their ability to age, even those from “lesser” vintages.” JR
Available Here Now:
Domaine Jamet Côte Rôtie, Rhone 2012 750ML ($199.95) $169 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2012 Cote Rotie is smoking good and should be up with the top wines from this estate. Inky colored, full-bodied and beautifully concentrated, it offers classic pepper, violets, bacon fat, olive and sweet cassis-like fruits. Opening up with time in the glass, it has the approachable, supple feel of the vintage, yet has more than enough mid-palate depth and fine tannin to keep it drinking beautifully for another two decades.” WA
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points “(15% new oak): Deep ruby. Complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh red and dark berries, incense, violet and cracked pepper, along with a vibrant mineral overtone. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering intense blackberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors that stretch out slowly with air. This concentrated yet lively Côte-Rôtie finishes with superb clarity and even tannins.” JR
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2012 Cote Rotie is smoking good and should be up with the top wines from this estate. Inky colored, full-bodied and beautifully concentrated, it offers classic pepper, violets, bacon fat, olive and sweet cassis-like fruits. Opening up with time in the glass, it has the approachable, supple feel of the vintage, yet has more than enough mid-palate depth and fine tannin to keep it drinking beautifully for another two decades.” WA
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points “(15% new oak): Deep ruby. Complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh red and dark berries, incense, violet and cracked pepper, along with a vibrant mineral overtone. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering intense blackberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors that stretch out slowly with air. This concentrated yet lively Côte-Rôtie finishes with superb clarity and even tannins.” JR
Rock-Bottom Pricing from the
Southern Hemisphere
Southern Hemisphere
Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Apalta Vineyard Carmenere, Apalta, Chile 2012 750ML ($21.95) $11.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Apalta Vineyard Carmenere, Apalta, Chile 2012 750ML ($199.95) $119 pre-arrival special (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Dense and powerful, this hits squarely with deep blackberry aromas matched by brushy, herbal notes. It’s a wide-bodied load with full but soft tannins and tons of extract. Toast, bitter chocolate and baking-spice flavors accent core blackberry fruit, while the finish tastes of coffee and feels a bit hot. Drink through 2019.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $15.79
The average price is $20
Our bottle price is 40.5% below the average price!
Our case price is over 50% below the average price!
The next best price is $15.79
The average price is $20
Our bottle price is 40.5% below the average price!
Our case price is over 50% below the average price!
Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon, Apalta, Chile 2013 750ML ($21.95) $11.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon, Apalta, Chile 2013 750ML ($199.95) $119 pre-arrival special (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “Offers mouthfilling richness, with sinewy and concentrated flavors of dried cherry, mint and raspberry, featuring green olive notes. Minerally finish. Drink now through 2018.”
Case-12 Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon, Apalta, Chile 2013 750ML ($199.95) $119 pre-arrival special (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “Offers mouthfilling richness, with sinewy and concentrated flavors of dried cherry, mint and raspberry, featuring green olive notes. Minerally finish. Drink now through 2018.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $14.67
The average price is $20
Our bottle price is 40.5% below the average price!
Our case price is over 50% below the average price!
The next best price is $14.67
The average price is $20
Our bottle price is 40.5% below the average price!
Our case price is over 50% below the average price!
Why Wait?
Lapostolle Wines Available Here Now
Casa Lapostolle ‘Casa’ Grand Selection Chardonnay, Casablanca Valley, Chile 2012 750ML ($11.95) $8.80 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Casa Lapostolle ‘Casa’ Grand Selection Chardonnay, Casablanca Valley, Chile 2012 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 4 cases available
Importer’s note: “The Lapostolle Casa tier of wines are young and expressive, bright and vivid, and made to capture the freshness of the fruit. Casa Grand Selection Chardonnay comes from the breezy, coastal Casablanca Valley, which has cool and dry summers, allowing the Chardonnay to ripen slowly and maintain its natural acidity. Hand-harvesting at night enhances the fruitiness and crispness of the grapes, and also helps reduce the use of energy at the winery. Casa Grand Selection Chardonnay is satisfying on its own, and also goes well with many seafood dishes and white meat.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $12
The average price is $12
Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile 2009 1.5L ($249.95) $189 special, 3 magnums available
Wine Spectator 96 points “This gorgeous wine deftly balances polished cassis, dark cherry reduction and blueberry notes on a compact frame. Structured, with silky tannins lining the long finish that lingers on with hints of apple wood, spice box and underbrush. Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2020.” WS
Wine Spectator 96 points “This gorgeous wine deftly balances polished cassis, dark cherry reduction and blueberry notes on a compact frame. Structured, with silky tannins lining the long finish that lingers on with hints of apple wood, spice box and underbrush. Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2020.” WS
Just Arrived
From Angela Estate
Angela Estate Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2013 750ML ($44.95) $33 special
Wine Enthusiast 92 points –Cellar Selection– “The label does not bear the name Angela Vineyard, but the fruit is estate grown. This is a tight, focused, young red wine, with tangy raspberry fruit that touches on black cherry. Vivid and penetrating, it needs plenty of time to breathe, and as it does it reveals subtle layers of mocha and caramel. This has the bones to age. Drink now through 2030.”
Winery note “From our flagship vineyard, Angela Estate planted in 2006 on ancient marine sedimentary soils with Wadenswil, Dijon 777 & 115. This gorgeous 2012 vintage made by Ken Wright exhibits all of the beautiful floral and spice elements we typically see on this site; rose petal, plum, hibiscus, root beer / cherry cola, mouth-filling juicy red raspberry and a seamless white pepper finish. The body and tannins have a medium-plus intensity exhibiting flavors of white pepper spice, plum skin, stewed cherries, cedar shavings, root beer candy, nutmeg, wet fresh mulch and dried rose hips. A divine wine and perfect generous vintage. Ideal growing conditions, long hang time and perfectly ripe fruit has created a lush, full and velvety Pinot Noir.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $37.99
The next best price is $37.99
Angela Estate Abbott Claim Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2012 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
Wine Enthusiast 94 points –Editor’s Choice–“Here is a powerful young wine with concentrated plum and cherry fruit. It’s beautifully built around perfectly ripened tannins that provide solid support without being intrusive. Compact and well proportioned, it lingers with highlights of espresso grounds, dark chocolate and black tea.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “This earthy style plays a woodsy, coffee and spice character against a core of black cherry, lingonberry and licorice flavors. The finish lingers against firm yet unobtrusive tannins.”
Great Northwest Wine “Why is this one of the finest wines in Oregon? Perhaps because Ken Wright is behind it. This won a unanimous double gold medal at the Great Northwest Wine Competition.”
Winery note “The site of a portion of the original John F. Abbott Donation Land Claim awarded on May 27, 1860. This 16-acre vineyard was planted in 2001 with Pinot Noir clones: Pommard, 777 and 115, on ancient Marine Sedimentary soils that were once ancient ocean bed. This wine is lush and plush, displaying rich fruit and deeply intense color with complex savory truffle notes. Flavors of red current, cherry cola, ripe raspberry, sweet pipe tobacco, rose petal make this a more collegiate compliment to our Angela Estate pinot noir. 1340 cases produced.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points –Editor’s Choice–“Here is a powerful young wine with concentrated plum and cherry fruit. It’s beautifully built around perfectly ripened tannins that provide solid support without being intrusive. Compact and well proportioned, it lingers with highlights of espresso grounds, dark chocolate and black tea.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “This earthy style plays a woodsy, coffee and spice character against a core of black cherry, lingonberry and licorice flavors. The finish lingers against firm yet unobtrusive tannins.”
Great Northwest Wine “Why is this one of the finest wines in Oregon? Perhaps because Ken Wright is behind it. This won a unanimous double gold medal at the Great Northwest Wine Competition.”
Winery note “The site of a portion of the original John F. Abbott Donation Land Claim awarded on May 27, 1860. This 16-acre vineyard was planted in 2001 with Pinot Noir clones: Pommard, 777 and 115, on ancient Marine Sedimentary soils that were once ancient ocean bed. This wine is lush and plush, displaying rich fruit and deeply intense color with complex savory truffle notes. Flavors of red current, cherry cola, ripe raspberry, sweet pipe tobacco, rose petal make this a more collegiate compliment to our Angela Estate pinot noir. 1340 cases produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $49
The average price is $49
Also newly arrived from another fantastic Willamette Valley producer: Belle Pente
Belle Pente Belle Pente Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2013 750ML ($39.95) $36 special
Winery note “Pinot Noir grapes are 90-100% de-stemmed and fermented with indigenous and selected yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine flows directly into barrels (25-35% new French oak) for 10-18 months aging. Wines are then assembled and gravity bottled without fining or filtration. These techniques highlight varietal fruit flavors and the unique characteristics of each vineyard site. Our “house style” emphasizes freshness, complexity, focus, elegance, and balance. Belle Pente Pinot Noirs can be enjoyed young, but will also reward careful cellaring.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Lovely Arlaud
Newly Arrived
Domaine Arlaud Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 3 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 94 points “Deep red-ruby. Deep black fruits, minerals and a whiff of white pepper on the nose, plus a positive hint of mulch. Wonderfully fleshy, supple and seamless and more open than usual for young Bonnes-Mares. Conveys an impression of thickness without weight, thanks to excellent retention of acidity. Best today on the strong, building finish, which features big but fine tannins that dust the front teeth. Bonnes-Mares can get a bit too ripe in hot years, but these vines enjoyed a slow, full ripening in the cooler 2013 growing season. Wonderfully fleshy, suave wine with a silky texture.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $264.95
The next best price is $264.95
Domaine Arlaud Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($169.95) $133 special, 4 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2013 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru has a perfumed, floral bouquet that is quintessential Charmes-Chambertin really. It is very well defined and pure with small dark cherries, blueberry and iris scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin structure, a citric thread of acidity and an austere and “serious” finish that is more Morey-like in style. There is a lovely sense of salinity on the aftertaste that begs you to take another sip. I actually prefer this to the Clos-de-la-Roche this year.” NM
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $150.95
The next best price is $150.95
Domaine Arlaud Clos Saint-Denis Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 9 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93-95+ points “The 2013 Clos St Denis Grand Cru possesses an outstanding bouquet that has wonderful delineation and complexity, a melange of red and black fruit, each infused with mineral/cold stone scents. There is an effortless element about the palate that is harmonious and supremely focused. The filigree tannin and wrapped in a silky texture and there is frisson and energy on the finish. There is plenty of substance here and so it will deserve several years in bottle. It may merit a higher score in the future.” NM
Wine Advocate 93-95+ points “The 2013 Clos St Denis Grand Cru possesses an outstanding bouquet that has wonderful delineation and complexity, a melange of red and black fruit, each infused with mineral/cold stone scents. There is an effortless element about the palate that is harmonious and supremely focused. The filigree tannin and wrapped in a silky texture and there is frisson and energy on the finish. There is plenty of substance here and so it will deserve several years in bottle. It may merit a higher score in the future.” NM
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $210.95
The next best price is $210.95
Domaine Arlaud Aux Combottes, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 17 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 93 points “Good dark red. Knockout Gevrey aromas of blueberry, boysenberry, cassis, musky minerals and licorice, with nuances of game and earth. A suave, silky midweight with lovely refinement and grain to its berry, spice and earth flavors. No easy sweetness here but pliant from the outset. The very long, slowly building finish features a broad dusting of tannins and sneaky energy. This has turned out beautifully.”
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2013 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Combottes has an entrancing bouquet that perhaps expresses the essence of Pinot Noir better than any of Arlaud’s premier crus at this nascent stage. It just soars from the glass with vivacious red berry fruits. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin and perfectly judged acidity. There is impressive body and presence to this Gevrey Combottes that fully exploits one of the best premier crus after Clos Saint Jacques. This is an outstanding wine.” NM
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Magnificent Magnien
2007 Grand Cru Burgundies – a pair:
Recently Cellar Released by Frederic Magnien – arriving here mid-April
Frederic Magnien Valmur Tres Vieilles Vignes, Chablis Grand Cru 2007 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Burghound 91 points “An ultra pure and high-toned green fruit nose that evidences hints of citrus, algae and tidal pool aromas merges into linear, driving and wonderfully delineated flavors that are wrapped in a dry, clean and energetic finish. This is understated to the point of being discreet yet the balance is impeccable.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Frederic Magnien Chambertin-Clos de Beze Grand Cru 2007 750ML ($319.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 92-95 points “Saturated deep red. Knockout nose combines raspberry, gingerbread, smoked meat and flowers, complicated by a metallic oyster shell nuance. Broad and dense but cool, with a deeply spicy quality and lovely inner-palate perfume. The firm, dusty tannins arrive late, giving this powerful but classy wine a chance to open out on the back end. Offers outstanding potential.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
On 2007 Burgundies—Stephen Tanzer says ‘if I were a lab rat….’
“The young 07s show wonderfully pure, fresh fruit (raspberry and red cherry abound), rather refined textures and an absence of hardness. Exceptions occur where the grapes were picked too early, wines were overextracted, or tannins were added on recommendation from enologists (the latter not generally a step taken by the producers I visit). Although pHs tend to be above average, the better wines generally come across as vibrant. And the best 2007s show a truly exhilarating characteristic I have rarely found in red Burgundy. They finish with an almost electric impression of lift and perfume, as if their fine tannins were sparkling on the palate like diamond dust. If I were a lab rat in a cage, I would suck this stuff out of a water bottle until I drowned.
“As to comparisons with past vintages: Some growers say the 2007s combine the fleshiness and succulent fruit of the 2000s with the firmer spine and more intriguing soil tones of the 2001s; others compare them to vintages such as 2002 and 1993; and a couple growers I visited went so far as to say that their 2007s compared in density to their 2005s but had more energy. A few producers even compared 2007 to 1997 in terms of the maturity of the grapes, but were quick to point out that the 2007s retained better acidity. My own sense is that the much cooler and damper conditions of the summer of 2007 allowed the grapes to retain their fresh fruit, mineral and spice character, and very few ’07s come across as hot-vintage wines.”
More More Magnien arriving mid-April:
Frederic Magnien Les Ruchots, Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 92+ points “Good bright, deep red. Powerful, expressive yet cool nose offers scents of blackberry, boysenberry and violet. Penetrating, very intense and quite primary on the palate, showing terrific energy and texture to the dark berry fruit. Finishes chewy and long, with a strong dusting of tannins but no dryness. The crop level was generous here, at a bit under 40 hectoliters per hectare, according to Magnien.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Frederic Magnien Damodes, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Bright red-ruby. Superripe aromas of blackberry, crushed cassis, bitter chocolate, violet and licorice. Densely packed but energetic and light on its feet, with its fruit-driven flavors of blackberry and blueberry communicating an impression of medicinal reserve. Very well-judged extraction here, showing little in the way of dryness. Has the stuffing to support its serious tannins. Finishes with excellent length.”
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Bright red-ruby. Superripe aromas of blackberry, crushed cassis, bitter chocolate, violet and licorice. Densely packed but energetic and light on its feet, with its fruit-driven flavors of blackberry and blueberry communicating an impression of medicinal reserve. Very well-judged extraction here, showing little in the way of dryness. Has the stuffing to support its serious tannins. Finishes with excellent length.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Frederic Magnien Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($219.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 92-95 points “Good bright red. Complex nose melds cherry, rose petal, leather, game and minerals, plus a whiff of sexy new oak. Tightly wound but with lovely sweetness to its red fruit and rose petal flavors. A silky texture is given cut and energy by harmonious ripe acidity. Finishes saline and long, with very suave tannins. A lovely Charmes, from the lieu-dit Aux Charmes in Charmes and the upper part of Mazoyeres just below Latricieres, according to Magnien.”
Stephen Tanzer 92-95 points “Good bright red. Complex nose melds cherry, rose petal, leather, game and minerals, plus a whiff of sexy new oak. Tightly wound but with lovely sweetness to its red fruit and rose petal flavors. A silky texture is given cut and energy by harmonious ripe acidity. Finishes saline and long, with very suave tannins. A lovely Charmes, from the lieu-dit Aux Charmes in Charmes and the upper part of Mazoyeres just below Latricieres, according to Magnien.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Frederic Magnien Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2013 Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes has a ripe, quite generous bouquet with “billowing” scents of wild strawberry and raspberry preserve that is well defined. The palate is vibrant on the entry with primal dark cherry and cassis fruit. The tannins feel succulent in the mouth, the acidity quite racy and lending the finish the tension that it needs. This should be very interesting once bottled.” NM
Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2013 Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes has a ripe, quite generous bouquet with “billowing” scents of wild strawberry and raspberry preserve that is well defined. The palate is vibrant on the entry with primal dark cherry and cassis fruit. The tannins feel succulent in the mouth, the acidity quite racy and lending the finish the tension that it needs. This should be very interesting once bottled.” NM
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $54.99
The average price is $62
The next best price is $54.99
The average price is $62
Frederic Magnien Chambertin-Clos de Beze Grand Cru 2011 750ML ($319.95) $249 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 92-94 points “(the parcel Magnien works with stretches from the bottom to the top of the cru; a substantial percentage of millerandage resulted in a very low yield and low pH in 2011, according to Magnien): Good bright, full red. Aromas of black cherry, raspberry, licorice, menthol and flowers. Highly concentrated and well delineated, with superb energy and lift to the flavors of red berries, spices and dark chocolate. Very rocky and precise on the finish, with firm tannins currently shutting down the fruit. Still an infant but shows outstanding potential.”
Stephen Tanzer 92-94 points “(the parcel Magnien works with stretches from the bottom to the top of the cru; a substantial percentage of millerandage resulted in a very low yield and low pH in 2011, according to Magnien): Good bright, full red. Aromas of black cherry, raspberry, licorice, menthol and flowers. Highly concentrated and well delineated, with superb energy and lift to the flavors of red berries, spices and dark chocolate. Very rocky and precise on the finish, with firm tannins currently shutting down the fruit. Still an infant but shows outstanding potential.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Frederic Magnien Chambertin-Clos de Beze Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($319.95) $279 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Medium red. Alluring perfume of raspberry, rose petal and high-toned cardamom spice. Broad, rich, dense and fine-grained yet somehow weightless, displaying powerful mineral support to its red berry and exotic spice flavors. The bracing, resounding finish features pronounced soil-driven salinity and a hint of youthful bitterness. Magnien predicts that this will be the last of his 2012 négociant wines to reach full maturity. Superb Burgundy.”
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Medium red. Alluring perfume of raspberry, rose petal and high-toned cardamom spice. Broad, rich, dense and fine-grained yet somehow weightless, displaying powerful mineral support to its red berry and exotic spice flavors. The bracing, resounding finish features pronounced soil-driven salinity and a hint of youthful bitterness. Magnien predicts that this will be the last of his 2012 négociant wines to reach full maturity. Superb Burgundy.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Frederic Magnien Chambertin-Clos de Beze Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($319.95) $279 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 92-95 points “Bright, full red. Sexy high-pitched perfume combines red cherry, blood orange, lavender, red rose and spearmint. Juicy but youthfully imploded, showing more aromatic complexity than pliancy of texture today. Crunchy flavors of crushed red fruits, spices and licorice are lifted by fresh rose. A very long, scented wine of great finesse, but in need of a decade of patience to fully express itself.”
Stephen Tanzer 92-95 points “Bright, full red. Sexy high-pitched perfume combines red cherry, blood orange, lavender, red rose and spearmint. Juicy but youthfully imploded, showing more aromatic complexity than pliancy of texture today. Crunchy flavors of crushed red fruits, spices and licorice are lifted by fresh rose. A very long, scented wine of great finesse, but in need of a decade of patience to fully express itself.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $324.95
The next best price is $324.95
Frederic Magnien Les Pruliers, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2002 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 90 points “Good dark red. Black cherry, menthol, cola and tarry, spicy oak on the nose. At once generous and tightly wound, with slightly grapey flavors of black raspberry, currant, menthol and spices. Fat and sweet but rather youthfully unevolved.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:
We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason.
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment
do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason.
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment
do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
Armand Rousseau
Arriving March 31st
Lowest-Priced Grand Cru
Domaine Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils Clos de la Roche Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($499.95) $359 special, 6 bottles available
John Gilman-View From the Cellar 94 points “The 2012 Clos de la Roche from Éric Rousseau was raised in somewhere between ten and fifteen percent new oak in this vintage, which has allowed all of the beautiful fruit and soil tones to stay front and center in this seamless beauty. The deep and very sappy nose wafts from the glass in a complex mélange of cherries, pomegranate, mustard seed, venison, very complex soil tones, woodsmoke and a faint whisper of cedar. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and nicely reserved out of the blocks, with a sappy core of pure fruit, great mineral drive, fine-grained tannins and a very, very long and utterly refined finish. Another great wine! 2022-2060.”
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 92-94 points “(10% new oak; from very ripe fruit picked early, according to Rousseau): Bright, dark red. Complex, primary nose melds sappy cherry, spices and rose petal. Tangy, sweet and fine-grained in the mouth, offering an exhilarating combination of urgent crushed fruits, flowers and loamy earth tones. Finishes with lovely stony length and reserve. Really shimmers on the aftertaste.”
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 92-94 points “For the first time a little new oak (10%) has been used on the 2012 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, where part of the vineyard was replanted five years ago. The fruit here is a little blacker than the Mazis-Chambertin tasted prior, that new oak ‘plugging’ the gaps that might have been there without the new wood. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins on the entry. There is a citric core of fruit here, touches of marmalade infusing the black and red fruit on the linear, mineral finish. This should age very well — a Clos de la Roche with substance and presence.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $369
The average price is $415
The next best price is $369
The average price is $415
New Review from Grapelive
Selbach-Oster Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2014 750ML ($27.95) $20.90 special, 23 bottles available
Grapelive 91 points “At 7.5% alcohol and with beautiful mineral spice the latest Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett from Johannes Selbach shines brightly and feels fresh and opulent, almost creamy, in the mouth. This is pretty stuff, it shows fine balance and has a wonderful mix of rose petal perfume, saline/brine, salty/flint stoniness and a contrast of sweet and tangy fruits with loads of terroir character. The 2014 vintage was extremely difficult with lots of stresses on the growers to make healthy grapes, but the hard work paid off in the end with surprising rewards, especially with Kabinett and Spatlese in the Mosel doing amazingly well, these lightly sweet examples show the best at this stage, while the Trockens (dry styles) will certainly have the upper hand in the 2015 vintage. 2014 is a vintage of delicacy and heightened aromatics, with Selbach’s Wehlener Sonnenuhr showing this to perfection, the nose has a mix of pure rose petal and rose water as well as exotic spices, sea breeze, a hint of hemp/tea and dried honey leading to a lime/mango and fleshy stone fruit peachy palate with shale and river stones. While a Kabinett, this Riesling gathers a bit of weight with air and finishes with a succulent decedent sweetness with juicy apricot and white flowers, while juicy/crunchy acidity keeps it vibrant and crisp, very well judged and poised. From mixed slate slopes on the sunny side of the river the Wehlenner is ripe with yellow fruits, elegantly spiced and steely focused. This should age nicely, but can really be enjoyed as is, a very fine Spring and Summer white, lively, classic and refreshing.”
You guessed it: this is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $24
The average price is $24
Staff Picks
Domaine Antoine Arena Patrimonio Grotte di Sole Rouge, Corsica 2011 750ML ($49.95) $29 special, 22 bottles available
“Antoine Arena manages such depth in his otherwise energetic, soulful wines. The 2011 Grotte di Sole is among the best possible examples, and we’re lucky to have it on offer. Sun-soaked fruit flirts with a leathery backdrop which never goes overboard; the gorgeous aromas of dark cherry and spice makes it very much a sip once, sniff twice sort of wine. This is an adventurous wine which will pleasantly surprise, though certainly fall within the register of anyone who loves the complexity of northern Rhone wines, the food-friendliness of Tuscan wines, and the persistence of Loire reds. I, for one, love it.” – Tyler
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Patrick Bottex Bugey Cerdon La Cueille Sparkling Rose, Savoie NV 750ML ($21.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Patrick Bottex Bugey Cerdon La Cueille Sparkling Rose, Savoie NV 750ML ($249.95) $149 special, 10 cases available
“Eminently drinkable, this juicy sparkling offers lush notes of black raspberry and marionberry with a vibrant acidity and steady fizz. A light sweetness and low alcohol combine to make this supremely refreshing on its own or a flexible pairing to just about anything on your plate this summer. I’ll be saving some for my first BBQ of the year!” – Suzanne
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $18.95
The average price is $23
The next best price is $18.95
The average price is $23
French Case Deals
A special highlight of 12 of the 39 crazy case deals we offer from France!
Consult the “Vinsanity” section of our web store (vinopoliswineshop.com) or drop us an email at info@vinopoliswineshop.com in order to view the whole list!
Consult the “Vinsanity” section of our web store (vinopoliswineshop.com) or drop us an email at info@vinopoliswineshop.com in order to view the whole list!
FRANCE-CHAMPAGNE
Case-12 A. Margaine ‘Le Brut’ Premier Cru NV 750ML ($479.95) $379 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $31.58/bottle!)
A. Margaine ‘Le Brut’ Premier Cru NV 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Importer’s note: “Violet and hyacinth aromas make you think of Riesling (as these wines often do), but the palate is all apples and Rainier cherries with a chalk-powder sprinkle; wonderfully silky and generous, refined and accurate. A virtual Blanc de Blancs; 90% Chardonnay to 10% Pinot Noir.”
Case-12 A. Margaine ‘Le Brut’ Premier Cru NV 750ML ($479.95) $379 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $31.58/bottle!)
A. Margaine ‘Le Brut’ Premier Cru NV 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Importer’s note: “Violet and hyacinth aromas make you think of Riesling (as these wines often do), but the palate is all apples and Rainier cherries with a chalk-powder sprinkle; wonderfully silky and generous, refined and accurate. A virtual Blanc de Blancs; 90% Chardonnay to 10% Pinot Noir.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $46
The average price is $46
Case-12 Aubry Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($449.95) $349 special, 4 cases available (that’s only $29.08/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Aubry Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(45% pinot meunier, 25% pinot noir and 25% chardonnay, with the rest arbanne, petit meslier and fromenteau; disgorged in April, 2013): Bright straw. Pungent aromas of Meyer lemon, pear and fig, with a gingery accent adding lift. Sappy, penetrating citrus fruit and floral flavors are given a refreshingly bitter character by notes of pear skin and peach pit, with a waxy note coming up on the back half. A smoky nuance lingers on the finish, which shows very good clarity and length. Fifty-five percent of this blend is from 2010 and the rest is reserve wines, mostly from a solera that was begun in 1998.” JR
Aubry Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(45% pinot meunier, 25% pinot noir and 25% chardonnay, with the rest arbanne, petit meslier and fromenteau; disgorged in April, 2013): Bright straw. Pungent aromas of Meyer lemon, pear and fig, with a gingery accent adding lift. Sappy, penetrating citrus fruit and floral flavors are given a refreshingly bitter character by notes of pear skin and peach pit, with a waxy note coming up on the back half. A smoky nuance lingers on the finish, which shows very good clarity and length. Fifty-five percent of this blend is from 2010 and the rest is reserve wines, mostly from a solera that was begun in 1998.” JR
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Case-6 Mischief and Mayhem Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2011 750ML ($149.95) $89 special, 5 six-packs available (that’s only $14.83/bottle!)
Mischief and Mayhem Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2011 750ML ($29.95) $16 special, 13 bottles available
Importer notes “Hard work amongst the vines, fine vintage conditions and superb Pinot Noir vineyard sites with an average vine age of 45 years, all combine to produce this classic Bourgogne Pinot Noir. Beautiful pure, ripe fruit, so typical in 2011, light barrel treatment and élevage in stainless steel tank, all integrate to produce a wine of real purity, ripe fruit character, structure and finesse. Aroma: Complex nose of strawberry, raspberry, redcurrant and violets, with notes of vanilla and cinnamon spice. Taste: Lovely texture, good grip, yet supple and round with ripe tannins and soft acidity. Delicious red fruit notes, including juicy raspberry and red cherry with hints of blackberry, mocha, dark chocolate, spice and sandalwood. Soft, pure, and focused finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $22
The average price is $22
Case-12 Domaine Cheveau Macon Davaye Les Belouzes 2014 750ML ($279.95) $219 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Domaine Cheveau Macon Davaye Les Belouzes 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Importer note “The cellars of the Domaine Cheveau are situated in the hamlet of Solutré-Pouilly in the heart of the appellation of Pouilly-Fuissé. The domaine was established by André Cheveau in 1950. The vineyards dedicated to Chardonnay are composed of the classic clay – limestone composition that provides the perfect ambience to produce the grand wines of Burgundy.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $23.99
The next best price is $23.99
Case-12 Marc Cameron Bourgogne Tonnerre Sagara 2013 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 1 case available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Marc Cameron Bourgogne Tonnerre Sagara 2013 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 14 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2013 Bourgogne Tonnerre Sagara has light nectarine, jasmine and almond scents on the nose that is nicely defined, though it does not quite have the edginess of the 2014. The palate is clean and fresh, nicely poised with a slightly resinous texture and attractive blood-orange notes interlacing the finish. Drink this more exotic Sagara over the next 4 to 6 years.” WA
Marc Cameron Bourgogne Tonnerre Sagara 2013 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 14 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2013 Bourgogne Tonnerre Sagara has light nectarine, jasmine and almond scents on the nose that is nicely defined, though it does not quite have the edginess of the 2014. The palate is clean and fresh, nicely poised with a slightly resinous texture and attractive blood-orange notes interlacing the finish. Drink this more exotic Sagara over the next 4 to 6 years.” WA
This is the only listing in the USA today!
FRANCE-BEAUJOLAIS
Case-12 Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Beaujolais Blanc Cepage Chardonnay 2014 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 1 case available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Beaujolais Blanc Cepage Chardonnay 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 9 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 88 points “This is a rich wine, ripe with yellow fruits. It is full bodied, peaches and pears giving a smooth, rounded character. Almonds and apple skins give texture to the wine that is ready to drink.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
FRANCE-LOIRE
Case-12 Chateau de Fosse-Seche Saumur Blanc Arcane 2012 750ML ($379.95) $333 special, 1 case available (that’s only $27.75/bottle!)
Chateau de Fosse-Seche Saumur Blanc Arcane 2012 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Yields of the 2012 Saumur Arcane were remarkable low (10-15 hectoliters per hectare), but finally gave a full-bodied, firmly structured wine with a powerful length. Golden yellow in color. Rich, ripe and deep on the nose, very profound and complex, but also superbly pure and stony in its core showing cooked quinces and honey. This is a very mineral, straightforward and stimulating wine of great purity, a serious expression of the unique terroir of Fosse-Sèche. Drink now and until 2030+.” SR
Case-12 Bernard Fouquet Domaine des Aubuisieres Vouvray Cuvee de Silex 2014 750ML ($219.95) $189 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $15.75/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Bernard Fouquet Domaine des Aubuisieres Vouvray Cuvee de Silex 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 11 bottles available
Winery note “[Translated] A dry and beautifully aromatic expression of Chenin Blanc.”
Case-12 M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche 2014 750ML ($199.95) $149 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $12.42/bottle!)
M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
VinopolNote: From organically farmed vineyards. 100% Cabernet Franc.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
FRANCE-BORDEAUX
Chateau Quinault L’Enclos, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 10 bottles available
Case-12 Chateau Quinault L’Enclos, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2009 750ML ($599.95) $499 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $41.58/bottle!)
James Suckling 93 points “A soft and fruity wine, with orange peel and berries and plums. Full body, with super fine tannins and a fruity finish. Refined and very pretty. Structured in the end. Fresh. Succulent. A style away from the over extracted one a few years ago. Try after 2018.” JS
FRANCE-RHONE
Case-6 M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante-Alouette 2012 750ML ($549.95) $259 special, 3 six-packs available (that’s only $43.17/bottle!)
M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante-Alouette 2012 750ML ($99.95) $49 special, 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “A wine reviewed last year, the 2012 Hermitage Chante Alouette comes from three separate parcels on Hermitage Hill; Meal, Les Murets and Chante Alouette. I rated it identically this go around, but it’s such a fabulous wine I decided to include it again. White peach, white flowers, honeysuckle, brioche and tropical notes all emerge from this stunning white, and while it’s not cheap, it represents a smoking value. Don’t miss it.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $75.89
The average price is $91
The next best price is $75.89
The average price is $91
Case-12 Les Hauts de Valcombe Ventoux 2013 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $12.42/bottle!)
Les Hauts de Valcombe Ventoux 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Grapelive 91 points “The Valcombe vines are about 75 years old and sit low on the slopes of Mount Ventoux, they are farmed organic and are used to produce traditional wines of balance and finesse, they are crafted by Luc and Cendrine Guénard, a couple that want to grow the reputation here and have a great passion for their terroir. They studied under Paul Jeune of Domaine Monpertuis, famous for his gorgeous Chateauneuf du Papes, and they have Rosenthal imports firmly behind them and championing their wines here in the states, their estate in at 1,000 Feet and covers about 28 hectares of mostly old vine Grenache with Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault for reds and as well as a collection of white grapes. The 2013 Les Hauts de Valcombe is a sappy and spicy red with great detail and vitality, it is open, but brilliantly subtle and refined with loads of charm that highlight the chalky mix of soils that include blue clay and galets, the same round stones found in Chateaneuf, and the palate is easy with red spices, dried flowers, earth and light leather notes adding complexity to the black raspberry, plum and pomegranate fruit core along with cracked pepper and red spicy cinnamon. There is a stony and stylish savory side that comes through as well as a lingering blueberry and strawberry on the finish, and the whole is a pleasing and easy to love red from one of the most underrated areas of the Rhone, where you can discover real beautiful wines that offer superb value, like this one, drink the Les Hauts de Valcombe between 2015 and 2018, it’s lovely stuff.”
Les Hauts de Valcombe Ventoux 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Grapelive 91 points “The Valcombe vines are about 75 years old and sit low on the slopes of Mount Ventoux, they are farmed organic and are used to produce traditional wines of balance and finesse, they are crafted by Luc and Cendrine Guénard, a couple that want to grow the reputation here and have a great passion for their terroir. They studied under Paul Jeune of Domaine Monpertuis, famous for his gorgeous Chateauneuf du Papes, and they have Rosenthal imports firmly behind them and championing their wines here in the states, their estate in at 1,000 Feet and covers about 28 hectares of mostly old vine Grenache with Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault for reds and as well as a collection of white grapes. The 2013 Les Hauts de Valcombe is a sappy and spicy red with great detail and vitality, it is open, but brilliantly subtle and refined with loads of charm that highlight the chalky mix of soils that include blue clay and galets, the same round stones found in Chateaneuf, and the palate is easy with red spices, dried flowers, earth and light leather notes adding complexity to the black raspberry, plum and pomegranate fruit core along with cracked pepper and red spicy cinnamon. There is a stony and stylish savory side that comes through as well as a lingering blueberry and strawberry on the finish, and the whole is a pleasing and easy to love red from one of the most underrated areas of the Rhone, where you can discover real beautiful wines that offer superb value, like this one, drink the Les Hauts de Valcombe between 2015 and 2018, it’s lovely stuff.”
Luisa Ribolla Gialla
Beauty of Friuli
Looking for a new and interesting alternative to Pinot Grigio? Ribolla Gialla is a less well known grape variety from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in the very north-eastern most corner of Italy. The region is excellent for producing bright, crisp wines with complex aromatics for bargain prices. Ribolla Gialla was thought to have been brought to Friuli through Slovenia as far back as the 13th century, though many consider the variety native to Friuli. It offers good acidity and expressive citrus and orchard fruit notes with a slight floral quality. The Luisa family has produced wines from their estate for over 80 years, driven by the philosophy that wine is a meeting of climate, terrain and man.
Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($21.95) $14 special, 25 bottles available
Case-12 Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($219.95) $159 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 89 points “Enticing aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle and citrus blossom lead the nose on this polished wine. The sleek palate delivers juicy pear, crisp apple and nectarine zest. It’s fresh and balanced, with bright acidity.” WE
“i shall drink no wine before it’s time!
…okay, it’s time.”
– groucho marx