October Sale Headliner: Quintessa 2013; Newly Arrived: Charles Heidsieck Champagne; October Sales – We’re Taking up to 25% Off Select Wines; Jacques Lassaigne: Next-Level Champagne; Christian Moueix’s Ulysses Vineyard; 2011 Red Burgundy is for Lovers; Joseph Swan; Superb Argentine: SuperUco; Lopez de Heredia – The Tondonia Vineyard; Arriving Friday – Hot Wines from 2014: Beaux Freres/ Gorman Cab Sauv/ Beaujolais & Guillemot; Kapcsandy Magnums Arriving This Month; Auction Action: German Auction Wines; October Sales Continued
October Sale Headliner
Offer limited to 36 bottles arriving October 7th
Quintessa Proprietary Red Wine, Rutherford 2013 750ML ($189.95) Was $169, Now $138 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2013 Proprietary Red Wine has always been good, but I think they have re-positioned themselves at a much higher pinnacle with the 2013. This is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend but has important component parts such as Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot from their gorgeous vineyards just off the Silverado Trail in Rutherford. The wine has a dense bluish/purple color and a beautiful nose of black raspberries, blueberries, lead pencil shavings, and touches of oak and spring flowers. The complexity of the fragrance is followed by a wine with terrific body, stunning purity, wonderful balance, and great depth and richness. This is certainly the most profound Quintessa made to date and should evolve gracefully for at least 20-25 years.”
The next best price is $149.99
The average price is $185
Newly Arrived
Case-6 Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($319.95) $269 special, 3 six-packs available (that’s only $44.83/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 93 points “Rich and creamy, this harmonious Champagne is expressive, with brioche, crystallized honey, black currant and toasted marshmallow flavors, accented by hints of verbena, baked peach and chopped nut. Vibrant and focused through to the lasting, saline-tinged finish. Drink now through 2022.”
October Sales
We’ve lowered our pricing even further to get you the best deals. Stock up on deals such as Thanksgiving rose, cellar-worthy Californian & Italian wines and pop-n-pours from France & Argentina
CALIFORNIA
Bedrock Wine Co. ‘The Bedrock Heritage’ Wine, Sonoma Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) Was $39, Now $36, 36+ bottles available – one week only special sale price!
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “The 2013 Bedrock Heritage Wine is one of the most intriguing wines in the range. Smoke, cedar, tobacco and a host of savory notes meld together in a powerful yet nuanced wines built on delineation and energy. Even with all of its intensity, the 2013 remains lifted, floral and light on its feet for such a big wine. This is by far the most polished and refined wine I have tasted from the Bedrock Vineyard, where the wines have often been much riper and bigger.” AG
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $47
Robert Parker 92 points “From multiple AVAs, such as Coombsville, Rutherford and St. Helena, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is a sleeper of the vintage. It offers an opaque ruby/purple color, lots of charcoal, blackcurrant, blackberry, incense and licorice notes, full body, and an opulent, sexy personality. It is ideal for drinking now as well as over the next 12+ years.”
The next best price is $58.99
The average price is $72
Domaine des Cassagnoles Gros Manseng, IGP Cotes de Gascogne 2015 750ML ($14.95) Was $11.90, Now $8.80, 36+ bottles available
Winery Notes–“The Gros Manseng produces fleshier, more ample wines with fruity apricot and pear aromas. It is a lively wine, but not to excess, with a persistent final. It may be kept for several years and should be drunk chilled, at a temperature of 50-53°”
The average price is $12
Domaine Comte Abbatucci ‘BR’ Barbarossa Blanc de Noir NV, Corscia (2012) 750ML ($79.95) Was $33, Now $28, 27 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “Abbatucci’s 2012 br constitutes a tank-rendered blanc de noir from the Barbarossa vines his father planted in the early 1960s. Scents and flavors of apricot, pineapple and pink grapefruit are prominently reinforced by piquancy of pit, core, pip and rind, so that the mid-palate effect here – while lush and expansive – is simultaneously zesty and tactilely prickling. Accompanying candied citrus rinds and bitter-edged licorice offers a tannic sense of graininess that accentuates this wine’s invigorating persistence. I have no experience or even reliable word on how previous renditions have fared in bottle, but if fortune favors you with the opportunity and liquidity, enjoy this wine in its youth, but also explore its potential by cellaring a couple of bottles.”
The next best price is $39.60
The average price is $60
Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) Was $47, Now $38, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Focused, juicy and long, this red is packed with cherry, floral, tobacco and underbrush flavors. Still a bit tight now, but stays long. The sweet fruit returns on the finish. Best from 2018 through 2030.” WS
Antucura Cabernet Sauvignon, Vista Flores 2012 750ML ($19.95) Was $14, Now $11.90, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Good deep red. Musky aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, fresh herbs and tobacco leaf. Sweet, gentle and fat with fruit; more open-knit in the middle than the malbec. Then tightens up on the back end, finishing with a more classic dryness.” ST
Champagne Jacques Lassaigne
Next-Level Champagne
We’re excited to feature the 2006 Brut Nature Blanc des Blancs
Available here now:
Wine Advocate 93 points “Sourced from Le Cotet, La Grande Cote and Les Paluets – which last-named is southeast-facing and arguably the top site in Montgueux, opines Lassaigne – his 2006 Brut Nature is intriguingly and alluringly scented with fresh lemon and apricot, peony and narcissus, rowan and pistachio, along with sea breeze intimations and a pungency of struck flint. Startlingly silken and creamy, yet focused and vibrantly juicy this adds a sort of shimmering, crystalline sense of stoniness to an almost kaleidoscopically interactive finish. It ought to merit following for 6-8 years. Incidentally, Lassaigne believes that a purer expression of vintage character will always be achieved by maturing this cuvee in tank.” DS
Wine Advocate & Wine Spectator 92 points “Aromatic, featuring apple blossom, bread dough and sous-bois notes, this well-structured version is underscored by a hint of chalk-tinged minerality, with the mouthwatering impression enlivening refined layers of poached apple and pear, crystallized honey, lemon curd and candied ginger. Drink now through 2020.” WS
Shipping Season Has Arrived
Don’t miss out!
If you have wine being held for cooler weather, please contact us to arrange shipping at this time. Email or call today!
Christian Moueix’s
Ulysses Vineyard
Christian Moueix, whose family owns the famed Chateau Petrus of Bordeaux, founded the Dominus Estate over 30 years ago. For decades, the terroir of southern Oakville has intrigued Moueix for its potential, and in 2008 he purchased the Schmidt Ranch and renamed it Ulysses. With its warmer climate and alluvial soils, the property offers unique challenges to the other estate vineyards. To achieve balance, careful attention is paid to the vines, starting with high density planting, avoiding sunburn and frequent tasting of grapes around harvest to ensure the grapes are picked at the ideal point in maturity. The philosophy of balance is carried into the winery, where the wine matures in 50% new oak that undergoes a long, low toasting. And after four years of waiting for the vineyard improvements to come to fruition we have the release of the inaugural 2012 vintage – a well-lauded vintage by both growers and reviewers alike.
Ulysses Vineyard, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($189.95) $169 special, 12 bottles available
2011 Red Burgundy is for Lovers
Burgundies of fruit-driven Pinot with fresh acidity and the signature of cru and climat: Any takers? The 2011 growing season proved itself unique on the Cote d’Or. Summer and spring traded places, but August warmed up and the harvest took place in sunny weather. Plenty of growers smiled with gratitude, proud of their 2011s, especially in the Cote de Nuits. Writes Clive Coates: “The reds . . . may not have enormous backbone, but there are many which have a delightful purity of Pinot fruit. . . . Yes, at least in red, 2011 is a success.”
Terroir definition sings loud and clear in non-blockbuster vintages like this, and prices stay humbly low. While 2011 has good medium- to long-term cellaring potential, these wines also offer themselves for younger drinking. What’s not to like? Without a doubt, it’s a vintage for true lovers of fine Burgundy. Below are our five top picks, all of which are the only listings in the USA today:
Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Cailles, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($139.95) $99 special, 25 bottles available
Burghound 92-94 points “As complex as the Pruliers is, the Les Cailles ratchets it up yet another notch with its spicy and pure blend of cassis, plum, violet and distinct iron-infused earth. There is excellent richness to the cool and equally pure medium-bodied flavors that possess excellent focus on the explosively long finish. The tannins are dense but quite fine and this offers outstanding upside development potential.” BH
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2011 Gevrey-Chambertin Le Trio is one of the most direct and focused of the 2011s here. Crushed rocks, graphite, mint and dark red berries are all laced together in a wine that impresses for its sense of harmony. Sweet floral notes add the final layers of nuance.” AG
Domaine Henri Boillot Les Lavieres, Savigny-les-Beaune Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 35 bottles available
Burghound 89 points “A pungently earthy nose of lightly spiced plum and various dark pinot fruit aromas leads to energetic and well-detailed flavors that exude a fine minerality on the delicious and solidly persistent finish. I like the mouth feel as it’s relatively fine and about the only nit is a bit of gas so I would suggest decanting this if you’re going to try a bottle young.”BH
Stephen Tanzer—Vinous 92 points “Good medium red. Spicy red berries dominate the nose. Sweet, round and silky, with harmonious acidity giving shape to the flavors of raspberry, flowers, chocolate and pepper. Very polished, graceful wine with piquant finishing minerality and sneaky concentration. Delicious already but has the balance to age.”
Burghound 93 points “This trades elegance for greater complexity with its broad ranging aromas of spicy and pungently earth black berry fruit liqueur, black tea and intensely animale suffused nose. There is excellent size, weight and power to the big and well-muscled flavors that possess plenty of supporting dry extract that coats the palate on the driving, even explosive finish. This should abundantly repay mid to longer-term cellaring.” BH
Joseph Swan
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Bright purple. Displays sexy dark berry liqueur, cherry-cola, vanilla, violet and tobacco aromas and a hint of allspice. Broad, fleshy and sweet, offering palate-coating black and blue fruit flavors and a strong floral quality. Aeration brings up exotic Indian spice notes that carry through the sweet, gently tannic finish. Smooth, seductive and approachable now but will age effortlessly.” ST
Winery note “Tasting notes: Medium deep garnet color. Aromas of dark berry compote with hints of fig, baking spices and black pepper. In the mouth the aromas are echoed but with a bit more brightness due to its excellent acidity. Still fairly tannic. Decanting and/ or opening a couple of hours ahead of drinking is highly recommended for this young pup!”
Superb Argentine
SuperUco
“Their passion and commitment, their spirituality and, for want of a better word, “purity” in terms of doing what they do for the love of it rather than financial reward, brought to mind the Lopez de Heredia sisters in Rioja. If you want cutting edge, meticulously crafted Argentinean wines hot footed from one of the most exciting sub-regions (Gualtallary), then look no further.” – Neal Martin of the Wine Advocate writing about the SuperUco winemakers
Argentina rarely conjures up the image of limited production, terrior-driven wines. Juan Pablo and Matias Michelini have done just that in their small, two hectare farm with some of the first biodynamic wines to come out of the Uco Valley. The project was started by the brothers in 2008 as a means of sharing the unique expression of the Gualtallary micro-region with the world. The Calcáreo wines below are all single-vineyard bottlings of Malbec with surprising nuance and precision. The wines are raised in clay amphora in their open-air winery to allow the grapes and limestone-rich soils to speak for themselves: no tampering by man or new oak.
Michelini Bros SuperUco Calcareo ‘Granito de Tupungato’ Malbec, Tupungato 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
James Suckling 96 points “This is so sexy and polished. Full-bodied, yet refined and long. Seamless and ethereal. Drink or hold.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2013 Calcáreo Granito de Tupungato starts with lactic notes followed by ripe plum and ripe skin aromas from grapes grown at higher altitude, closer to the sun. It is a bit wild. The palate is tremendously mineral, with a chalky texture and incredible length. The tannins are ultra-fine and the wine is compact, very harmonious. This is the more austere and mineral of the three. Awesome value!”
Michelini Bros SuperUco Calcareo ‘Coluvio de Altamira’ Malbec, San Carlos 2013 750ML ($49.95) $33 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2013 Calcáreo Coluvio de Altamira is closed and tight, feeling the most austere and chalk-driven of the three reds I tasted form the Calcáreo line. The grapes are selected from a small part of the vineyard where the calcium carbonate is seen in the surface. It’s a serious, balanced and terribly salty and mineral red with the violets of Malbec intermixed with crushed rocks and even a marine feeling to it. Complex, subtle, elegant… terrific! And very affordable too. 3,000 bottles produced, the content of the amphora.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Calcáreo Río de los Chacayes is sourced from the Chacayes zone of Tunuyán on top of Vista Flores towards the mountains. It has a riper, spicier, floral, and aromatic profile with notes of thyme and rosemary. It is the most extroverted of the three, and also feels quite polished. The palate, however, is more serious, with the austerity of the rocks, a very fine thread of subtle acidity and a long, long, long finish with sweeter tannins. It’s a rolling stone covered in chalk and surrounded by thyme. Awesome! 3,000 bottles were produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Lopez de Heredia – Mini Focus
The Tondonia Vineyard
Surrounded by the Ebro River on three sides, the Tondonia vineyard benefits from its privileged position. Winery founder Rafael López de Heredia had an eye for winegrowing, and acquired the estates that owned this land to create a Bordeaux-style vineyard, planting it in 1913-14. Alluvial soils and the river’s climatic influence allow roots to find deep nourishment and hydration, while the Ebro buffers the Spanish summer heat and the Rioja’s winter freezes. Planted primarily to Tempranillo, but also including grapes for blending and for the legendary white wine, Tondonia’s 175 acres create balanced wine of depth, substance, and complexity, with the ability to age for what seems an eternity. In Tondonia we truly have one of Spain’s best, and most historic, vineyards.
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Light gold. Explosively perfumed nose offers an array of citrus and orchard fruits, with exotic nuances of mace, chamomile and honey. Rich and deeply pitched but almost shockingly vibrant, offering spicy pear, nectarine and lemon pith flavors. Suavely blends richness and vivacity, finishing with excellent clarity and length. This should age at a snail’s pace.”ST
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 1991 Vina Tondonia Blanco Gran Reserva offers shaved almond, lemon rind, honeysuckle and dandelion on the well-defined nose that demands coaxing. The palate is crisp on the entry with dried honey, dried mango and citrus peel on the entry, fanning out towards a complex, resinous finish with a hint of rosewater on the aftertaste. Drink now-2020+ “
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2003 750ML ($47.95) $33 special, 31 bottles available
Case-12 R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2003 750ML ($499.95) $359 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Bright ruby-red. Ripe cherry, vanilla and floral pastilles on the smoky, oak-spiced nose. Sweet and supple on the palate, offering pliant red fruit and spicecake flavors with suave mocha and vanilla bean nuances. Quite lively and fresh for a wine from a hot vintage, and showing no excess fat. Finishes sweet, toasty and very long, with smooth tannins making a late appearance.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Cigar box, cedar and balsamic notes frame cherry, raisin and licorice flavors in this lean, firm red. Displays grip and focus. A traditional style. Drink now through 2023.
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2004 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2004 Viña Tondonia Reserva is a completely different story. It is a worthy follower of the 2001, the greatest of the Viña Tondonia Reservas of recent times. It has the usual blend and usual levels of alcohol and acidity, bottled after six years in oak barrels. The nose feels savory (if that’s possible–umami?) and developed, with tertiary aromas and good balance between spices, leathery notes, cherries and balsamic notes of cigar box and incense. The palate is both round and crisp, with refined tannins. It has very good balance with subtle acidity and very good persistence.”
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva, Rioja DOCa1964 750ML ($1,199.95) $999 special, 3 bottles available
Decanter 98 points, Wine Spectator 95 points “Extraordinary. Sweet vanilla and dried berry aromas and flavors have an unexpected richness in this vibrant red. Impressive for its balance of concentration and elegance; firm tannins meld with a creamy texture. The long finish defines traditional Rioja at its best.”
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva, Rioja DOCa 1981 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 15 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 1981 Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva has a vibrant nose reminiscent of coeval Burgundy, with scents of citrus peel, orange rind, singed leather and a Tuscan delicatessen. The palate has a penetrating orange peel and tart cherry entry with potent earthy notes at its core. It is supremely well-balanced with an energetic finish underpinned by crisp dry tannins. This wonderful Rioja is drinking perfectly now and will age effortlessly. Drink now-2020+ ” (08/2012)
Robert Parker 93 points ‘A sensational Rioja made from 90% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano and 5% Grenache, the 2010 Reserva was aged 30 months in French oak. A classic, traditional Rioja, it exhibits notes of lead pencil shavings, unsmoked cigar tobacco, black cherries, blackcurrants and subtle oak in the background. This dense ruby/plum/purple-colored 2010 is medium-bodied, elegant and pure with a lovely texture and lushness. Already revealing secondary nuances as well as considerable appeal, it should drink well for 4-5 years, possibly longer.”
Finca la Emperatriz Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2010 750ML ($27.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93 points “I think the 2010 Finca la Emperatriz Reserva could summarize what a textbook Rioja Reserva should be, combining the best of the traditional and modern styles. It’s mostly Tempranillo with 3% Garnacha, 2% Viura (white) and 1% Graciano fermented in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts and matured in oak barrels (mostly American) for 23 months. It has the spicy, smoky notes with bright red fruit hinting on blood oranges and signs of developing more complexity and nuances. The medium-bodied palate features grainy tannins, good freshness and length. I see that I liked the 2008, and I think this continues the same line, perhaps fine-tuning the élevage could take this wine a step higher. Keep it up!”
Arriving Friday – Hot Wines from 2014:
Beaux Freres/ Gorman Cab Sauv/ Beaujolais & Guillemot!
Beaux Freres The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($99.95) $89.99 pre-arrival special, ETA Friday!
Winery note “This wine is 100% Pinot Noir from our Upper Terrace Vineyard. A bit darker and more complex, this wine offers a plethora of Indian spices, black cherries, black currants, forest floor and a wisp of sweet wood smoke. Structured and richly tannic, it expands gracefully over the palate and reminds us of a Grand Cru Corton at this early stage. Gracefully seductive!”
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Wine Spectator 93 points “Broad and spicy, with a minerally accent to the black cherry and plum flavors, blanketed with fine tannins. The flavors emerge on the finish and persist. Best from 2018 through 2024.”
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Beaujolais’ “Dream Vintage”
New 2014 Offers Arriving Friday
“Readers who enjoy Beaujolais need to stock up on the best 2014s for both immediate enjoyment as well as for cellaring. And there are many more of these top choices than usual in 2014. Stylistically the wines bear comparison to classically proportioned vintages such as 2010 and 2011, with abundant fresh fruit as well as depth and structure, all working smoothly together. Simply put, even if one takes into consideration the recent run of strong vintages—2009, 2010, 2011, 2013 and, almost certainly, 2015—2014 might turn out to have produced the most consistently outstanding group of Beaujolais since the legendary 2005s, which is saying something.” – Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media
Daniel Bouland Cote de Brouilly Cuvee Melanie, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($31.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Daniel Bouland Cote de Brouilly Cuvee Melanie, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($319.95) $259 pre-arrival special (that’s only $21.58/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Youthful violet. Intense, highly perfumed boysenberry, cherry liqueur and floral pastille aromas show excellent clarity, and a smoky mineral overtone builds in the glass. Sappy and sharply focused, offering concentrated red and blue fruit flavors that show impressive vivacity given their heft. Juicy, pure and precise, finishing with outstanding focus and persistence and silky, even tannins that add gentle grip.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Case-12 Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Coeur de Vendanges, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($249.95) $199 pre-arrival special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Lurid ruby-red. Pungent raspberry and cherry pit on the fragrant nose, with hints of white pepper and smoky minerals adding lift and complexity. Spicy and sharply focused, offering vibrant red berry and blood orange flavors that put on weight with air. Closes taut and gently sweet, with strong spicy lift and silky tannins coming in late.”
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “This “heart of the harvest” Gamay is produced from 100-year-old vines, a rarity in any appellation. With less than five acres to work with, this ripe and structured wine shows the potential even of “simple” Beaujolais-appellation wines. It has weight, spice and warm red fruits that are laced with acidity. Drink this wine from 2016. — R.V. (12/1/2015)
The average price is $22
Case-12 Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Fleurie les Garants, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($319.95) $259 pre-arrival special (that’s only $21.58/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Deep ruby. Intense black raspberry, cherry and floral pastille aromas are complemented by suggestions of licorice and smoky minerals. Juicy and penetrating, offering sappy red and blue fruit flavors that effortlessly marry power to finesse. The mineral and floral notes linger impressively on the finish, which is given shape by fine-grained, sneaky tannins.”Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Moulin-a-Vent Les Trois Roches, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Moulin-a-Vent Les Trois Roches, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($319.95) $259 pre-arrival special (that’s only $21.58/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Vivid ruby. Assertive dark berry and floral pastille aromas show very good energy, with a spicy nuance adding complexity. Juicy and pliant, offering sweet, nicely concentrated blackberry and cherry flavors and a of touch of spicecake. Dusty tannins build slowly on a long, smooth and impressively persistent finish, with the dark fruit and spice notes echoing.”
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2014 Moulin-à-Vent les Trois Roches was matured in 1- to 5-year-old half-tuns. Some attractive undergrowth/woodland scents permeate the dark berry fruit, a touch of cold black tea in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, ripe tannin. There is appreciable depth and roundness here, with a soft and fleshy, but quite complex finish. This is an excellent Moulin-à-Vent from Pierre-Marie Chermette.”
The next best price is $27.99
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Domaine Pierre Guillemot
Tucked away in sleepy little Savigny-lès-Beaune, Domaine Pierre Guillemot continues to make classic, unpretentious Burgundy. Typically Burgundian – almost ten generations of winemakers, not even ten hectares farmed – the estate benefitted from Pierre’s archetypal vigneron character and from his devoted savoir-faire. Today, Pierre’s son has taken charge, the 60-year-old vines are coming of age, new winery equipment complements mostly not-new oak, and most everything is done by hand, as it should be in Burgundy. This is the type of wine production you don’t want to disrupt: If it ain’t broke…. Just let the Guillemots keep making succulent Savigny in their quintessentially Cote d’Or way.
Winery note: “Village-level vineyards near the town of Savigny-lès-Beaune. Clay-limestone scree and marl. Grapes are sorted and entirely de-stemmed; traditional vinification; 16-day maceration; the cap is punched down manually. Fifteen months in 1- to 3-year-old barrels. Aromas of berries; raspberry; cherry; roses; vanilla.”Guillemot Savigny Les Beaune Gravains 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Winery note “Deep soil; scree; alluvial mixed with gravel; south exposed; 270 m altitude. Grapes are sorted and 70% de-stemmed; traditional vinification; 16-day maceration; the cap is punched down manually. Fifteen months in 1- to 3-year-old barrels, with 10% new oak. Aromas of black cherry; smoky notes.”Guillemot Savigny Les Beaune Jarrons 2014 750ML ($49.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Winery note “Vineyards on an east-facing slope near the town of Savigny-lès-Beaune. Steep slopes; deep sandy soil; 260 m altitude. Fifteen months in 1- to 3-year-old barrels, with 10% new oak. Aromas of black cherry; vanilla; mineral notes.”
Guillemot Savigny Beaune Grands Picotins 2014 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Winery note “Village-level vineyards near the town of Savigny-lès-Beaune. Clay-limestone scree; rocky. Grapes are sorted and entirely de-stemmed; traditional vinification; 16-day maceration; the cap is punched down manually. Fifteen months in 1- to 3-year-old barrels. Aromas of bing cherry; blackcurrant; raspberry.”
Guillemot Savigny-Les-Beaune Serpentiers 2014 750ML ($49.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Winery note “Vineyards on a south-facing slope near the town of Savigny-lès-Beaune. The soil is composed of marl and brown earth. Fifteen months in 1- to 3-year-old barrels, with 10% new oak. Aromas of berries; strawberry; cherry; bing cherry; licorice root; peony.”
Our Current
Shipping Promos:
Welcome to the club, Colorado!
Along with Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California,
we now offer flat rate shipping to Colorado. Here’s the scoop:
Single orders of any quantity of wines qualify for the flat rate;
this does not apply to orders held in storage for any reason
or multiple orders consolidated into one shipment.
The flat reach for each state is, as follows:
-to Oregon for $17,
–Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California & Colorado for $25
Kapcsandy
Winery-Cellared Magnums
Arriving October 07
Old World winemaking meets the land of opportunity. A young Lou Kapcsandy found political asylum in the United States as Hungary fell to the Soviets, and upon retirement he bought Beringer’s State Lane Vineyard. The Kapcsandy’s small, family-owned and -operated winery produces incredibly successful Napa reds from 100% estate-grown fruit. These wines exude harmony and balance, avoiding the heavily-extracted style common in this part of California. An honorable example of passion and care both in the vineyard and the cellar, the quality of these wines remains a testimony to Lou’s dedication.
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin opens with the most beguiling bouquet imaginable. Freshly cut flowers, mint, cinnamon and licorice all make an appearance as this vivid, beautifully delineated wine opens up in the glass. A model of total finesse and elegance, the 2009 wraps around the palate with what feels like endless layers of aromas and flavors. This totally seamless, polished Cabernet Sauvignon is virtually impossible to resist today, but it will be even better in another few years. The 2009 is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc.”Kapcsandy Family Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard 2012 1.5L ($1,099.95) $899 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Robert Parker 100 points “The perfect 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot aged 20 months in 100% new French oak. I think this is the third perfect score I’ve given to this wine, which is the essence of their vineyard, representing about 13% of the total production, or a mere 320 cases. The wine has a gorgeously opaque purple color and a beautiful nose of camphor, charcoal, blackberry and creme de cassis with licorice and truffle. It has unbelievable richness, great texture, tremendous finesse, precision and delineation. Very intense, full-bodied and super-pure, the length of the wine must be at least 50+ seconds. This is a gorgeous wine and one of the great superstars of this fabulous vintage. Drink it over the next 25-30 years.”Kapcsandy Family Winery Endre Red Blend, Napa Valley 2010 1.5L ($219.95) $179 pre-arrival special, 6 magnums available
Robert Parker 94 points “The less expensive 2010 Endre (53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc aged in both French and Hungarian oak) is very Bordeaux like. Notes of bouquet garni, red and black currants and loamy soil are present in this medium-bodied wine that seems to be a faster evolving effort than its siblings. With excellent texture as well as an elegant style, and I use that word in a positive sense, it should drink well for 10-15 years.”
The next best price is $225
Robert Parker 98 points “The 100% Merlot cuvée, the 2012 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard is, once again, flirting with perfection. A stunning nose of chocolate fudge intermixed with coffee bean, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit is intense, and followed by a full-bodied, gorgeously textured, opulent style of wine with stunning richness and purity. This is a brilliant wine and only represents 12% of the production, as only 300 cases were produced. It should drink well for 20-25 years.”
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2012 Roberta’s Reserve (Merlot) is another drop-dead gorgeous wine from Kapcsándy. Mocha, black cherries, plums, licorice and menthol meld together in an effortless, seamless wine endowed with sublime grace and class. Lovely savory and mineral notes support the pliant finish. What a gorgeous wine this is.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Achtung!
Auction Action
Since 1910, the German association of top wine estates (VDP) has hosted wine auctions. These are not your typical wine auctions; instead they offer German wine fans and collectors a unique opportunity to experience wines that will not make it to the regular market. Each estate can submit their best wines from the best vintages (all strictly unchaptalized) exclusively to the auction directly from their cellars.We’re thrilled to offer our first foray into the exciting world of German auction wines. These are highly exclusive wines only available to auction winners and bids must be placed by authorized wine brokers. Each wine was hand-selected by our German wine insider.
See below for a complete list of wines arriving in January 2017:
October Sales Continued
Le Clos du Caillou Cotes du Rhone Rose, Rhone 2015 750ML ($21.95) Was $18, Now $16, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “Pale peach skin color. Vibrant strawberry, blood orange and floral scents carry a building mineral topnote. Taut and linear on entry and then fleshier in the middle, offering nervy red berry and succulent herb flavors that turn sweeter with air. Smoothly plays power off finesse and finishes racy and long, leaving a hint of lavender behind.”
Importer notes: “Of all the terroir in the Côtes du Rhône, the “clos” of Caillou has to be one of the most exceptional. Completely surrounded by Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards, this walled parcel is essentially identical in terroir and exposition but was left out of appellation in the 1930s. This rosé is a selection of younger vines that grow in the “clos” on sandy, mineral soils. Counoise and Mourvèdre grapes are hand-harvested and pressed directly (rosé de pressurage), then fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks.”
Domaine du Dragon Cotes de Provence Grande Cuvee Rose, Provence 2015 750ML ($19.95) Was $16, Now $11.90, 26 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “Pale orange. Bright and energetic on the nose, displaying intense citrus fruit and red berry qualities and a touch of succulent herbs. Dry and tightly focused, offering zesty orange pith and red currant flavors underscored by a chalky mineral element. Closes nervy and long, echoing the mineral and citrus notes.”
Importer notes: “While much of Provence is a patchwork of different terroirs, the estate’s high-altitude vineyards, located in the hills up above the Côte d’Azur, are singular in that the soils are almost exclusively limestone, as in Burgundy. ‘Grande Cuvée’ brings together Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle, a southern white grape. Grapes are pressed (rosé de pressurage) then fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks; the wine also undergoes malolactic fermentation.”
The next best price is $13.99
VinopolNote: A versatile rose with savory, herbal notes from a legendary Chateauneuf producer. A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault grown in clay limestone, galets and sandy soil. Practicing organic & biodynamic.
Importer note “Hand harvested and fermentation in tank, vines are between 10 and 60 years old. Wine is aged for 4 months in tank. A fruity and generous rosé with strawberry and clay aromas. Drink within the next two years.”
The next best price is $14.95
Winery note: 100% Malbec. Very aromatic (raspberry, wild strawberry, blueberry), with a pronounced pomegranate color. The palate is rich, vinous, and unctuous. Drink as an aperitif, or with BBQ and exotic fruits.CALIFORNIA
Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($21.95) Was $18, Now $14, 26 bottles available
“The solidly made 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa represents 70,000 cases of good Cabernet Sauvignon! Displaying herbaceously-tinged blackcurrant and plum fruit intermixed with a hint of licorice, this spicy, ripe, richly fruity Cabernet is not terribly complex, but it is well-made. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.”–Wine Advocate
The next best price is $15.98
Delaille Domaine du Salvard Unique Pinot Noir, IGP Val de Loire 2013 750ML ($19.95) Was $11.90, Now $9.90, 34 bottles available
Vinopolnote: Organic; grown from 10-20 year old Pinot vines planted in clay and sandy soils. 100% destemmed, with six day maceration. Vinified in stainless steel cuves, aged on the fine lees, and bottled unfiltered.
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $14.99
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. [The wines] 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 championing their wines here in the states. Their estate covers about 28 hectares of mostly old vine Grenache with Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault. 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 highlights the chalky mix of soils that include blue clay and galets, the same round stones found in Chateaneuf. 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. 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.”
Castello di Ama ‘San Lorenzo’, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2011 750ML ($57.95) Was $41.90, Now $36, 36+ bottles available
James Suckling 96 points “This has a dusty character on the nose with soil, dried fruit and blueberry. Flowers too. Full body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Tight and structured. Shows wonderful depth of fruit and beauty. Chewy. Better in 2016.” JS
The average price is $47
Winery note “Deep, young, brilliant colours. Typical taste and smell characteristics in a wine whose vinification process introduces the cultural versatility of such a precious terroir. Gaglioppo 40% Greco Nero 40% Nerello cappuccio 20%.”
ARGENTINA
Achaval Ferrer Quimera, Mendoza 2012 750ML ($39.95) Was $28, Now $18, 36+ bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “There’s a minerality and intensity to this wine with limestone and salt. Full-bodied yet so refined. Sexy and beautiful. Mostly malbec with cabernet franc, merlot and a bit of petit verdot. Drink or hold.”
“(aged in French oak, 40% new, for 12 months; 50% Malbec, 24% Cabernet Franc, 16% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot): Dark red-ruby. Ripe aromas of blackberry, blueberry and bitter chocolate. Dense and fine-grained, showing attractive spicy lift to its dark berry flavors. Ripe, harmonious acidity gives this wine a seamless quality. Classy juice.” Stephen Tanzer-Vinous Media