Vinopolis Winery of the Year 2016: Zorzal/SuperUco; Arriving Today: from Xavier, Elio Grasso, Bartolo Mascarello and more!; New October Sales: Chateau Malescot-St-Exupery & La Poderina; Arriving This Week: from Felsina, Cadence, Domaine de Montille, and more!; Mighty Maderia – New Offers Arriving in November (1902, 1912, 1937, 1977, and many more vintages!); Preview Presale: November Highlights; Henri Gouges: Best Prices on 2014s Arriving in November; Ramey: Cellered Releases Arriving in November; Lauer Power: New Offers on 2015s Wines – Arriving Mid-December
Politics Schmalitics
Had enough egomania?
Join us in some Eggomania
Zorzal/SuperUco
Our Wines of the Year 2016
“Fruit before oak, austerity before exuberance.” – Zorzal motto
“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 SuperUco
From Washington, to Australia, to South America, the discovery of new producers and growing regions unfolds like a map. Less than ten years ago, a new winery called Zorzal appeared in Argentina’s emergent Valle de Uco. Zorzal’s trio of Michelini brothers blended the freedom of New World winemaking with an appreciation for Old World style and varieties. Their inaugural release garnered 94 points from Robert Parker and their 2012 Tinto de Tiza was listed in Wine & Spirits Magazine’s best 100 wines of 2014. The name Zorzal had earned its place in the world atlas of fine wine.
The wines of Zorzal combine tradition with progress, Old World with New, structure and fruit with acidity and minerality, and debuted with fame. Vinopolis stands behind Zorzal’s universally-appealing, terroir-driven wines, and is proud to support them in the USA. Think of them as avant-garde Loire wines that remain uniquely Argentine. Pop open a few bottles and see what we and the Wine Advocate are talking about. Get some cases now before this boutique winery becomes exclusive: Zorzal, the Valle de Uco, and Argentina are definitely on the map.
Zorzal Wines Available Here Now:
Zorzal Eggo Blanc de Cal, Tupungato, Argentina 2014 750ML ($29.95) Was $24, Now $20.90, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2014 Eggo Blanc de Cal is pure Sauvignon Blanc from two different vineyards in Gualtallary. The full clusters are pressed and the must was fermented and aged in contact with the lees for nine to ten months in their famous egg-shaped cement vats. This is more subtle and earthy, less Sauvignon, with the fruit expressing itself in a lower-pitched voice, more of a baritone. It’s also has a little wider, pungent and powerful character in the mouth. This is only around 13% alcohol, and even though in 2014 it didn’t go through malolactic fermentation, it’s still a very light and fresh wine. Groundbreaking Sauvignon. 4,800 bottles were produced, fruit of two eggs.” LG
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Zorzal Eggo Franco Cabernet Franc, Tupungato, Argentina 2015 750ML ($34.95) Was $27, Now $21.90, 36+ bottles available
No reviews yet on the 2015. Here is the Wine Advocate on the 2014: 94 points “There is a Cabernet Franc in the Eggo range, and I tasted the 2014 Eggo Franco, produced with grapes from Tupungato Winelands in Gualtallary, a place that defines itself as a wine country club that touts a combination of real estate, vineyards and sport facilities, including golf and polo! The vines were only planted in 2008 (everything in Gualtallary is really new). There are some 300 hectares of vines there, in one of the best parts of Gualtallary. They have three-hectare plots owned by mostly foreign investors and most of the highly sought after grapes are sold. Zorzal has agreements to buy grapes (and control the viticulture) of 20 of these plots. Incredibly perfumed for a Cabernet Franc, as the nose is very floral and made me think of a Malbec rather than a Cabernet Franc. The spiciness of all these Eggo wines comes from the grapes and the fermentation and aging in cement, as none of the wines see any oak. And I tell you one thing, you do not miss the oak or the complexity or anything, it’s all here. This is the first year for this vertical, fresh, tremendous Cabernet Franc. Well done, bravo! 2,200 bottles produced. The Michelini brothers keep producing fresh, elegant and terroir-driven wines from their base in Gualtallary. The range seems to be growing almost infinitely, as their creativity also seem to have no limits”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Zorzal Eggo Filoso Pinot, Tupungato, Argentina 2014 750ML ($29.95) Was $24, Now $20.90, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2014 Eggo Filoso Pinot Noir is produced with fruit from Gualtallary. It fermented after carbonic maceration in cement vats and like the whole Eggo line, it matured in cement eggs for some nine months and never saw any oak. Pale-colored, floral and showing a lactic touch, it is earthier than the Gran Terroir. The palate is medium-bodied, with floral flavors, very good acidity and a fine texture.”
This was already the lowest listed price in the USA today…
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $29
Zorzal Eggo Tinto de Tiza, Tupungato, Argentina 2014 750ML ($39.95) Was $29, Now $26, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2014 Eggo Tinto de Tiza is a blend from three different vineyards in Tupungato Winelands in Gualtallary. It’s a blend of mostly Malbec with some Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. As is the case with the whole Eggo range, the wine didn’t see any oak, and in this case it was matured in egg-shaped cement vats for one year. There are violets, plums, dark cherries and something earthy. This is slightly riper than the 2013. The medium-bodied palate has is fresh with a silky texture, pure flavors and a mineral-driven finish. At this price I’d buy it by the case. Super!”
…And, for those curious to taste the full array of these wines:
Case-12 Zorzal Eggo Mixed Case ($319.95) $279 special, 4 mixed-cases available
A mixed case containing 3 bottles each of the following Zorzal wines:
Zorzal Eggo Blanc de Cal Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Zorzal Eggo Cabernet Franc 2015
Zorzal Eggo Pinot Noir 2014
Zorzal Eggo Tinto de Tiza Malbec 2014
SuperUco Wines Available Here Now:
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.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Michelini Bros SuperUco Calcareo ‘Rio de los Chacayes’ Malbec, Tunuyan 2013 750ML ($49.95) $33 special
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!
Arriving Today
…from France
Chateau Gigault Cuvee Viva, Cotes de Bordeaux Blaye 2005 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
James Suckling 93 points “Wow. Lots of bright and intense fruit on the nose with blueberries, milk chocolate, and flowers too. Full-bodied with seamless tannins and a long intense finish. The fruit here is compelling and beautiful. Give it time to come together, but already impressive.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Ripe cherry and berry, with a melange of fresh herbs, olive and a hint of coffee and chocolate on the nose. Medium to full-bodied, intense and silky, with loads of fruit pushing through the long finish. Delicious even now. This is always excellent value” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Xavier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Anonyme X, Rhone 2010 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The powerful, rich 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Anonyme reveals an off-the-chart level of extract, lots of glycerin (nearly 16% natural alcohol) and copious black cherry, blueberry, forest floor, lavender and graphite characteristics. This full-throttle red requires 3-4 years of cellaring and should keep for two decades.”
Matthieu Barret Domaine du Coulet Cornas Les Terrasses du Serre, Rhone 2009 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 95 points “While they didn’t present this cuvee in 2012, I sourced a bottle of 2009 Cornas les Terrasses du Serre locally to see a slightly older vintage. Classic Cornas, with chewy, meaty, bloody notes of black fruits, lavender, olive tapenade and violets, this beauty has everything you could want from a Syrah from these steep granite slopes. Full-bodied, concentrated and beautifully textured, with integrated acidity and plenty of tannin, drink it anytime over the coming decade or more.”
…from Italy
Feudi di San Gregorio Serpico Rosso Irpinia, Campania 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The outstanding 2010 Irpinia Aglianico Serpico is Aglianico from a pre-phylloxera vineyard that sees 18 months of medium toast oak. This vintage reveals an impressive sense of balance and inner harmony with dark fruit tones that are enhanced by bright accents of cherry and dried blueberry. Extra focus and intensity is achieved thanks to the dusty mineral shadings that give pretty contours to the plump fruit. There are distant endnotes of crushed white pepper as well. The tannins offer both firmness and texture. This is a beautiful expression of Aglianico.”
Elio Grasso Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate, Barolo DOCG 2008 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “Licorice, tar, menthol, spices and crushed rocks are some of the nuances that flow from the 2008 Barolo Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate. This dramatic, large-scaled Barolo impresses for its towering depth, complexity and sheer pedigree. Tar, menthol, licorice and spices wrap around the fleshy, deep finish. The Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate is considerably more powerful than the silkier Gavarini, but both wines represent the height of finesse in Nebbiolo. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.”
Petrolo Torrione Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany 2009 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
James Suckling 94 points “Aromas of lightly stewed fruit, with hints of fresh herbs and spices. Full bodied, with soft tannins and a fruity finish. This is balanced and long, with a caressing finish. Best ever. Mostly Sangiovese, with a hint of Merlot. Better after 2013” JS
Bartolo Mascarello Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2007 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Antonio Galloni 97 points “Mascarello’s 2007 Barolo shows just how compelling this vintage can be, even now. Sensual, layered and totally voluptuous in the glass, the 2007 shows the more flamboyant side of Barolo. I find the wine’s voluptuous, engaging personality impossible to resist. Sure, 2007 is not a classic vintage, but when a wine is this good, I say: Who cares?”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
…from Spain
La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904, Rioja DOCa 2005 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $39 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2005 Gran Reserva 904 is a superb blend of Tempranillo from the villages of Briñas, Labastida and Villalba with 10% Graciano from Briones and Rodezno. The grapes were destemmed and crushed and fermented in stainless steel for 18 days at 25 C. Malolactic fermentation was spontaneous and lasted 38 days. These wines are marked by a long aging in used American oak barrels following the most strict Riojan tradition; four years during which time the wine was manually racked eight times. This is usually my favorite wine from La Rioja Alta and 2005 is one of its best showings, going back to the quality of the vintages of the 1950s and 60s. The nose is very balsamic with notes of camphor, hints of mint, leather and hung game wrapped around a core of cherries in liqueur. Together it is balanced, subtle, truly elegant and classical. The palate is only medium-bodied but with great concentration of flavors that are very tasty, mineral, almost salty and framed by ultra-fine tannins and smashing balance. A great classic. This wine will be released in October 2015, a full ten years after the vintage. At this quality level this is a bargain.” 4/2015
New October Sales
We’re up to 52 – only 6 days remaining!
Chateau Malescot-St-Exupery, Margaux 2009 750ML ($179.95) Was $149, Now $128, 18 bottles available
James Suckling 98 points “A wine with intense spice and berry character with hints of sweet tobacco. It changes all the time from flowers to fruit and wet earth. Full-bodied with super fine tannins and ripe fruit. It’s long and juicy with lovely fruit. Super long and beautiful with fine tannins that last for minutes. Tight now but juicy and gorgeous. Best ever from here.”
Tenute del Cerro ‘La Poderina’ Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2006 750ML ($74.95) Was $59, Now $39, 26 bottles available
James Suckling 95 points “Blueberries, flowers and raspberries. Love the nose, like so many others. Full body, with fine tannins and a silky textured finish. So much going on here. Class”JS
We’ve cut prices on 52 wines for the month of October.
See our full list of sale wines at the bottom of the newsletter!
Arriving This Week!
Arriving Friday from Felsina:
We’re excited to announce a new vintage of our 2015 Wine of the Year. 2012 was a year offering dry conditions during the beginning of the season with some rains toward the end. The resulting wines are, to quote Antonio Galloni, “essentially ripe and racy in style, with good up-front fruit, but with medium-bodied structure. I imagine most 2012s will offer their best drinking sooner rather than later.”
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2012 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 95 points “Traditional style Chianti Classico with cedar, dried meat, dark chocolate and tobacco aromas. Full body, silky and polished tannins and a fantastic finish. A wine that shows depth and lots of flavor. Lively acidity too. Drink now.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2012 vintage was less problematic in the Castelnuovo Berardenga sub zone compared to other parts of the Chianti Classico appellation. Fèlsina’s 2012 Chianti Classico Riserva Berardenga is full, generous and reflects the house style of this celebrated estate. Fruit is sourced from 35-year-old vines and the harvest takes place at various intervals in order to ensure optimal ripeness. Soft cherry and spice give the wine an elegant approach.”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2012 Chianti Classico Riserva shows the intensity of the warm, early ripening vintage, but is also quite closed today, with little in the way of expressiveness. There is plenty of depth in the glass, which makes me think all the 2012 needs is a bit more time to fully come together. Readers will find a wine that is a bit slender in feel, but with radiant fruit that just needs time to fully emerge.”
Arriving Friday from Cadence:
Cadence is an urban winery based in an industrial warehouse in southern Seattle. Proprietors Ben Smith and Gaye McNutt are former aviation/tech workers whose love for wine inspired them to create their beautiful Bordeaux-style blends. Cadence sources fruit from Red Mountain AVA vineyards such as Ciel du Cheval, Tapteil, and their estate vineyard, Cara Mia. Their envoy includes blends and single-vineyard bottlings; their wines have achieved huge acclaim and earned Cadence a top spot in Washington’s wine scene.
Cadence Winery ‘Bel Canto’ Cara Mia Vineyard Red, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93+ points “One of the reserve wines from Ben Smith, the 2013 Bel Canto is a fabulous blend of 75% Cabernet Franc and 25% Merlot that saw just under two years in 50% new French oak. It shows the lengthy elevage on the bouquet with a spicy, ripe, incense, dried flowers and currants driven style that shows a hint of evolution at first, yet continues to gain freshness and purity with time in the glass. This gives way to a complex, layered red that has fabulous mid-palate depth, building, ripe tannin and a big finish. Even with the slightly evolved style, this beauty will age gracefully. Give bottles 3-4 years and plan on drinking through 2030.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cadence Winery ‘Camerata’ Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “A significantly different blend from the 2012, which was over 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2013 Camerata checks in as 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot, which like the Bel Canto spent 23 months in 50% new French oak. Possessing a fabulous bouquet of black currants, toasted spice, licorice and wild herbs, this full-bodied 2013 is concentrated, incredibly elegant and textured, with ripe tannin and a balanced, layered style that will evolve gracefully. It should be at its best from 2020-2033.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $63
Cadence Winery Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93+ points “Possessing a pretty bouquet of cassis, spring flowers, lead pencil and licorice, the 2013 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard (39% Cabernet Franc, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot and the rest Merlot) is medium to full-bodied, with a tight, reserved style that will reward cellaring. It’s a beautiful wine that needs 3-4 years of bottle age and drunk over the following decade.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cadence Winery Tapteil Vineyard Red, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “I’ve always loved the Tapteil release from Cadence and the 2013 Tapteil is no exception. A Cabernet Sauvignon dominated blend that incorporates 18% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc, it offers full-bodied, beautifully pure aromas and flavors of black and blue fruits, graphite, leafy herbs and distinct minerality. More voluptuous and sexy than the reserved Ciel du Cheval bottling, it certainly offers pleasure today, but will be even better in 2-3 years of bottle age and will keep for two decades after that.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Arriving Friday from Domaine de Montille:
The Cuvee Christiane, named in honor of the wife of Hubert who passed away in 2008, is sourced from a plot in Les Malconsorts with a unique geographical location just to the south of the famous La Tache vineyard. It offers more spicy and mineral aromas with a longer aging potential that its brother bottling.
Domaine de Montille Les Malconsorts Cuvee Christiane, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($599.95) Was $469, Now $399 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 94-96 points “The 2013 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru les Malconsorts “Christianne,” which I asked to taste directly alongside the regular Malconsorts, has more delineation and precision, more mineralité coming through on the nose, veins of wet limestone and sea spray emerging with time. The palate is also noticeably different with greater tension and focus, a sense if coiled-up energy that is uncommon in this vintage. This surely illustrates the profound effects of terroir: a serious 2013 that should age with style.”
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 92-95 points “Bright, deep red. More discreet on the nose than the “regular” Malconsorts, showing ineffable floral lift. A step up in fruit intensity and pungency, but with powerful crushed-stone minerality keeping the wine under wraps today. Conveys a very strong impression of extract and stuffing but very closed in on itself today. Brisk acidity contributes to the impression of energy. The wine’s sophisticated tannins spread out horizontally to saturate the palate on the sappy, very firm finish. Great incipient complexity here but this will require serious patience.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $419.39
Also Arriving Friday:
Bodega Tapiz ‘Zolo’ Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Uco Valley 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 93 points “Dried blackberry and blueberry character on the nose with hints of spice. Full body, dense and powerful fruit and tannins, yet remains firm and fresh. Chewy and structured.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $18.98
The average price is $21
Jorge Ordoñez Bodegas Triton Tridente Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra, Castilla y Leon 2015 750ML ($19.95) $18 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Jorge Ordoñez Bodegas Triton Tridente Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra, Castilla y Leon 2015 750ML ($249.95) $189 pre-arrival special (that’s only $15.75/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Robert Parker 94 points “The 2015 Triton Tinta De Toro is a stunning wine from this relatively modest appellation and vineyard owned by Jorge Ordoñez and his partners. The wine, 100% Tinto de Toro, spent eight months sur lie in Burgundy and Bordeaux barrels. It is a killer example of Toro, which produces relatively full-throttle, intense wines from ungrafted vines. This beauty, inky purple in color, offers up notes of graphite, forest floor, blackberry and cassis in a full-bodied, pedal-to-the-metal, long, rich and concentrated style. At $20.00 it is a remarkable value and probably capable of lasting up to a decade, although there is no reason to defer your gratification.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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.
Take Advantage of the Flat Rate!
Mighty Maderia
A vineyard at sea, the island of Madeira has provided fortified wines since before the United States were born. In fact, East Coast Americans became some of the wine’s greatest patrons in Colonial and post-Colonial times. Few wines have the staying power to resist oxidation like Madeira. Dutch Indies traders once crossed oceans with barrels of Madeira wine in their hull, creating a long, hot ageing that somehow worked with grape varieties like Bual, Sercial, and Malvasia. Today, the wine ages on the island, but still provides the sweet, seductive aromas and texture that made Madeira famous. And, yes, Madeira ages just the same, hence our selection of bottlings Spanning the 20th century. Consider Madeira one of the world’s most exotic wines.
Arriving Mid-November
Barbeito Bual Frasqueira Madeira 1992 500ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “A bright, crisp version, with plenty of spark to the dried citrus, cherry and roasted pineapple flavors. The sinewy mid-palate leads to firm mineral and slate components on the finish, accented by hints of white pepper. Drink now through 2035.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $149.99 for the 750ML
Barbeito Frasqueira Verdelho Madeira 1992 500ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 94 points
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Barbeito Single Cask (719d+e) Colheita Malvasia Madeira 2001 500ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Hazelnut, chocolate torte and lemon bar flavors are supported by vibrant acidity in this toothsome version. Shows plenty of smoky notes, with some leathery and beefy hints on the finish. Drink now through 2040.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Barbeito Ribeiro Real Malvasia 20 Years Old Madeira NV 750ML ($249.95) $179 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Butterscotch and dried apricot flavors dominate this rich style. White chocolate and maple notes show as well, with ripe citrus and spice accents filling the lush, lively finish. Very fresh and pure. Drink now through 2040.”
D’Oliveira Bual Vintage Madeira 1908 750ML ($699.95) $579 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 1908 Boal Reserva from D’Oliveiras is an unctuous, full-bodied wine loaded with dark maple syrup, tar, leather, licorice and sweet baking spices. There is superb density here and the wine shows terrific length in an intense style. The finish is long, bright and sweet.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $689
D’Oliveira Bual Vintage Madeira 1977 750ML ($199.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 1977 D’Oliveiras Boal Reserva reveals superb depth and precision in its leather, spices, toffee and espresso. Smooth and remarkably balanced on the palate, this Madeira offers tons of length and plenty of style.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $177
D’Oliveira Malvasia Vintage Madeira 1907 750ML ($999.95) $689 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 97 points “A reputed year for Malvasia, this was aged over 90-years at their warehouse in Rua dos Ferreiros and this bottle is better than previous ones I have encountered. This has a very fresh, very complex nose with notes of creme brulee, dried apricot, quince, hints of wild strawberry and fresh fig. A really stunning bouquet, developing a touch of chlorine with time. The palate is just huge: incredibly powerful, spicy, hints of caramel, fig, Indian spice, Chinese 5-spice with an extravagant bravura finish that is so viscous and beautifully defined with apricot lingering seductively on the back-palate. Stunning. Tasted April 2010.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Offers a rich, earthy aroma, with flavors of juniper berry, hazelnut, cocoa and butter pastry, featuring vibrant acidity. Shows concentrated smokiness midpalate, accented by hints of baker’s chocolate. The powerful finish offers a rush of exotic spice accents. Drink now.”
D’Oliveira Malvasia Vintage Madeira 1989 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Citrusy and broad-textured up front, with flavors of chestnut, dried fig, marzipan and honeycomb. Shows muscular acidity and spiciness, presenting plenty of alcoholic power on the finish. Drink now through 2045.”
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 1989 Malvasia needs coaxing to eke out the aromas, but they soon muster courage and offer attractive scents of melted candle wax, quince, walnut oil and tangy marmalade. The palate is well-balanced with very crisp acidity that cuts through this Madeira with ease. There are delightful hazelnut and dried honey notes towards the finish, which shows more composure than the 1990 Malvasia. This is well-worth seeking out.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $113
D’Oliveira Sercial Vintage Madeira 1928 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 1928 Sercial is reticent on the nose at first, but unfurls nicely with aeration to offer enticing scents of honeycomb, mandarin, Seville orange marmalade and pressed dried flowers with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with tangy, spicy notes on the entry: dried honey, bitter orange peel, a Tokaji-like oxidation that manifests itself as hazelnut and white pepper on the finish. This is a very impressive Sercial that is just beginning to motor.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $520.24
D’Oliveira Sercial Vintage Madeira 1937 750ML ($399.95) $349 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 96 points, Wine Spectator 93 points “Full of verve, this Madeira is deep amber in color, with a fresh, complex bouquet evoking cocoa, caramel and a hint of iodine. The lovely butterscotch flavor marries well with the lively structure and is followed by a dry, nutty finish. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $444
D’Oliveira Sercial Vintage Madeira 1969 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Creamy and lush, this glides across the palate with rich buttercream notes to the flavors of apricot tart, pear compote, dried mango and pineapple cake. The spicy finish is fresh and minerally, presenting a long tail of dried ginger. Drink now.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 1969 Sercial is also ex-Adegas do Torreao and, again, the quality shows through. It has a comparatively straightforward bouquet of honey, white chocolate, rosewater and a touch of honeysuckle. It opens nicely with aeration. The palate is delicate, but nicely composed on the entry with impressive weight and volume. There is a cutting seam of fresh ginger that is neatly interwoven into flavors of marmalade and Satsuma fruit. It softens nicely towards the finish without losing freshness and delineation.”
D’Oliveira Sercial Vintage Madeira 1977 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Offers a stalwart structure, with plenty of finesse to the flavors of roasted plum, cedar, humus and dried ginger. Citrusy midpalate, presenting a robust finish of almond and buttered toast that is long and rich. Drink now through 2030.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
D’Oliveira Sercial Vintage Madeira 1989 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 92 points
D’Oliveira Verdelho Vintage Madeira 1912 750ML ($799.95) $559 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 98 points
D’Oliveira Verdelho Vintage Madeira 1932 750ML ($499.95) $419 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 1932 Verdelho is yet another ex-Adegas do Torreao bottling. It has a lucid deep amber hue. The nose is pure and refined with scents of quince, nougat, a mischievous touch of shellfish and orange blossom unfolding seductively with each sip. The palate is medium-bodied with a taut entry. This is a very composed Verdelho with a judicious hint of shaved ginger. The flavors fan out nicely with orange peel, lemongrass and honeycomb towards the intense finish that leaves the mouth tingling.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $435
The average price is $504
D’Oliveira Verdelho Vintage Madeira 1973 750ML ($199.95) $159 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 93 points “D’Oliveira’s 1973 Verdelho Riserva was an inspired match to the hen egg custard. The richness of the wine, much of which comes from its aging, paired beautifully with the silkiness of the Périgord truffle ragout. Today it is easy to forget that Madeira was once served at the dinner table, rather than after the meal, as is now much more common.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $199
D’Oliveira Bastardo Madeira 1927 750ML ($799.95) $619 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 93+ points
D’Oliveira Terrantez Vintage Madeira 1977 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 93+ points, Wine Advocate 91 points “Matured in wood for thirty years, the 1977 Terrantez was bottled in 2009. It has a lively bouquet that comes racing out of the blocks with dried honey, apricot, quince and marmalade aromas. The palate is very well-balanced with rapier-like acidity. It is harmonious and focused with resinous/oxidative elements neatly interwoven into the viscous, honeyed fruit, leaving the finish harmonious, long and satisfying.”
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D’Oliveira Terrantez Vintage Madeira 1988 750ML ($149.95) $109 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 93 points, John Gilman 92 points “The D’Oliveiras 1988 Terrantez is a wine that invites a moment of quiet contemplation, making it the perfect wine with which to end this incredible tasting. There is a highly attractive creaminess as layers of roasted nuts, cloves and leather open up in the glass. This generous, sweet Terrantez offers outstanding length, with lingering notes of sweetness and acidity that intermingled on the, intensely satisfying finish.”AG
D’Oliveira Madeira Old Wine Madeira 1995 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival SUPER SPECIAL
Wine Spectator 96 points “A rich, robust style, with smoky notes to the flavors of dried tropical fruits and apple, enlivened by accents of citrus zest. Cedar and dried ginger details fill the powerfully structured finish. Still an adolescent, with a long future ahead. Very pure.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $83.99
The average price is $93
Can’t Wait? These Maderias are available here now:
D’Oliveira Bual Vintage Madeira 1968 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 2 bottles available here now
Wine Spectator 96 points “”Balanced and plush, with concentrated buttercream, hazelnut, dried apricot and tropical fruit flavors that are still fresh and lively. Citrus zest and sea salt notes show midpalate. The finish lingers with cream, dried tarragon and Asian spice details. Drink now through 2035.”
D’Oliveira Verdelho Vintage Madeira 1986 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 9 bottles available here now
Wine Spectator 93 points “This is loaded with dried mango and apricot flavors, flanked by notes of cinnamon and allspice. Dry, with plenty of seductive smoky accents. The bright finish offers citrus zest, dried rosemary and sea salt hints. Drink now through 2030.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $137
D’Oliveira Terrantez Vintage Madeira 1971 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 7 bottles available here now
Wine Spectator 96 points “Offers a richly spiced aroma, with flavors to match, including butterscotch, hazelnut cream and dried tropical fruits. Complex and well-integrated, featuring a plush texture. The ripe, seductive finish oozes with chocolate and dried coconut notes. Drink now through 2045.”
Preview Presale
Arriving Mid-November Highlights
James Suckling Wine of the Year for 2016:
Opus One Proprietary Red Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($279.95) $259 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 100 points “The greatest Opus ever. Terrific aromas of crushed black currants, blueberries and flowers with hints of sweet tobacco. Roses continue to exude opulence and class. Full body, superb balance of ultra-fine tannins and vibrant acidity. Complex aftertaste of black fruits and citrus fruit. Extremely persistent. So approachable now and enjoyable. But will be even better in 2019 and beyond. 79% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc, 6% merlot, 6% petit verdot, 2% malbec. This will always be beautiful to drink.” (01/2016)
Bodegas Toro Albala Don PX Convento Seleccion, Montilla-Moriles 1931 750ML ($399.95) $279 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 98 points “If someone told you they kept a wine for 84 years in barrel before bottling, you’d think they are nuts, right? Well, that’s what the folks at Toro Albalá in Aguilar de la Frontera – in the province of Cordoba, part of the Montilla Moriles appellation – did with their 1931 Don PX Convento Selección. This is part of what they call ‘vinos olvidados,’ which means ‘forgotten wines.’ The border is amber, with green tints that denote very old age. Such old age provides an array of unusual aromas and flavors, including iodine and salt that compensate the sweetness (403 grams) and even the alcohol (18%). It’s terribly balsamic, with notes of dry herbs and spices, cigar ash, carob beans (algarrobas), incense and noble woods. The palate is very, very sweet and concentrated, unctuous, dense, with a chewy texture. This goes beyond a glass of wine, a drop of it is like having a piece of cake. I don’t think this reaches the complexity and depth of the 1946, which remains the benchmark for these old sweet PX, but it’s truly terrific!… bottles were filled in June 2015.”
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Matthieu Barret Domaine du Coulet Cornas Billes Noires, Rhone 2011 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Matthieu Barret Domaine du Coulet Cornas Billes Noires, Rhone 2011 1.5L ($199.95) $159 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “Even better, the 2011 Cornas Billes Noires, which spends one year in old wood followed by one year in concrete tank, offers blockbuster levels of black raspberry, smoked earth, chocolate, licorice and crushed rock on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied, long, elegant and with laser-like focus, it nevertheless does not lack for fruit or texture, and has fine-grained tannin framing the finish beautifully. With a scant 600 cases to go around, there’s not much of it, but don’t miss a chance to grab a couple of bottles if you can. It too will drink well for 10-15 years.”
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Matthieu Barret Domaine du Coulet Cornas Brise Cailloux, Rhone 2011 750ML ($69.95) $41.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “Starting out, the 2011 Cornas Brise Cailloux offers up textbook Cornas wildness with its gamy, herbal-styled bouquet delivering brilliant fruit (black cherry, raspberry, blueberry), loads of meatiness, spring flowers and searing minerality. Seeing 18 months all in old wood, this medium to full-bodied beauty has incredibly purity of fruit, great acidity and a knockout finish. Enjoy it over the coming 10-15 years.”
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The average price is $51
Henri Gouges
New Releases Arriving Mid-November
“It is whilst still on the vine that a fine wine matures…” –Gouges family maxim
Producing wines from some of the most famous vineyard sites in the Nuits-Saint-Georges, this eighty-year old family estate is widely considered to be the top producer in the area. The Domaine was founded by Henri Gouges, who was known for being a leader against the frauds of that time, and thus one of the individuals in charge of delineating Burgundy crus. Today, the domaine is headed by his grandson Christian and the next generation, Gregory and Antoine (Christian’s cousin, Pierre, has now retired). The vineyards are all low-yielding, with average vine age of between 30-40 years old. The house style has moved from dense and long-lived in the 40s and 50s, to light in the 70s and 80s, and back toward a more powerful and structured style today.
Of the 2014 vintage, Gregory reported that “there wasn’t really a challenge for the 2014 vintage… It was more normal and classic than the 2012 and 2013 [vintages].” In August, there were some challenges with rot, which (in on vine elimination) resulted in about a 5% loss of grapes during pruning and selection. Harvest for the estate commenced in mid-September with near ideals of sugar concentration in the grapes, phenolic ripeness and pH.
Arriving Mid-November from Domaine Henri Gouges:
Domaine Henri Gouges Bourgogne Pinot Blanc 2014 750ML ($39.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Winery note “[Translated] From a 0.7 hectare plot of Pinot Blanc located about 375 meters in altitude on a plateau in the AOC Cotes des Nuits. Planted on shallow and stony soil consisting of red clay, it produces white wines that are genuine and aromatic. The vines are a selection massale from the Premier Cru Vineyard “La Perriere.””
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Domaine Henri Gouges La Perriere Blanc, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($149.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 88-90 points “The 2014 Nuits Saint Georges 1er Cru les Perrières Blanc, from white limestone populated by Pinot Blanc vines planted in 1956 after the frosts, has a lifted pineapple and pink grapefruit-scented bouquet that unwinds in the glass. The palate is well balanced with Cornice pear and white peach notes, a fine line of acidity with a touch of baked apple towards the finish. Enjoy this over the next 5-6 years.”
Burghound note: (no review for the 2014 vintage) “From white pinot noir, which is better known as Pinot Gouges; the vines were planted in 1947 – the production is between 2000 and 2500 bottles.”
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Domaine Henri Gouges Bourgogne Rouge 2014 750ML ($39.95) $29 pre-arrival special
“From vines on the plateau, which give a more elegant wine than vines from the lower sections. Reduction masks the underlying fruit though it does not extend to the palate as there is good freshness and verve to the nicely voluminous flavors that deliver excellent depth and length. This is worth considering.” Burghound
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Domaine Henri Gouges Nuits-Saint-Georges 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Burghound 88-91 points “(from 4 different parcels scattered above and below the 1ers and the blend of vines averages about 35 years of age) A markedly sauvage nose reflects notes of dark berry fruit, spicy, violet and earth. The middle weight flavors possess an unusually sleek and velvety mouth feel before culminating in a mildly rustic finale.”
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 88-90 points “The 2014 Nuits Saint-Georges Villages had just been racked and is planned to be bottled this coming December. Now this has fresh vibrant black cherry and blueberry fruit on the nose – vivacious and nicely defined. The palate is smooth on the entry with tart red cherries and cranberry, a touch of black tea in the background. Good acidity and respectable weight considering the vintage and that this is a village cru. Recommended.”
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 87-89 points “(in cuve): Bright medium red. Floral, spicy aromas of cherry and currant, plus a hint of menthol. Juicy and fine-grained, in a rather cool style. Still a bit hardened by the sulfur treatment ten days before my visit but in an elegant style for Nuits-Saint-Georges, offering lively flavors of red fruits, flowers and mint and a firm back end.”
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Domaine Henri Gouges Clos des Porrets Monopole, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 90-92 points “Bright, deep red. A step up in stony pungency and aromatic lift from the Chênes Carteaux, offering perfumed scents and flavors of black cherry, violet, rose petal and spices. More rigorous in the mouth in the manner of Nuits-Saint-Georges from the south side of the village. Intense, solidly built wine with very good mouth coverage but no excess weight. Finishes with a restrained sweetness, a saline nuance and excellent length.”
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 90-92 points “The 2014 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru Clos des Porrets Saint Georges, a monopole of the domaine, has a crisp leafy bouquet with autumn leaves and touches of flint coming through with aeration. The palate is well balanced with fine tannin, a certain brightness to the fruit here – resolutely “classic” in style, a “cool” NSG but with very fine delineation on the finish. Not a long-term proposition perhaps, but a well-crafted drop of wine that will repay time in the cellar.”
Domaine Henri Gouges Les Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Burghound 90-92 points “(from 30+ year old vines) As is usually the case this is notably spicier with its more elegant nose of violet, plum and dark raspberry that is trimmed in a touch of earth. The supple and refined medium-bodied flavors exude a fine bead of minerality while delivering excellent length on the solidly structured and ever-so-mildly austere finale where a touch of Nuits style tannins emerge.”
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 88-90 points “Bright palish red. Medicinal cherry, raspberry and mint on the nose, lifted by a floral quality. Elegant, dry and classic if a bit lean, conveying an impression of energy to the flavors of red fruits and saline minerality. Finishes tight and salty. Like the village wine, this is in a rather delicate style.”
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Domaine Henri Gouges Les Chenes Carteaux, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 89-91 points “Reduced aromas of black cherry, raspberry, mint and menthol. A step up in sweetness and suppleness from the Chaignots; at once more velvety and more facile than that wine. Gouges describes this rather suave wine as the estate’s “entry-level premier cru of Nuits-Saint-Georges.” More red fruits than black.”
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2014 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru Clos des Porrets Saint Georges, a monopole of the domaine, has a crisp leafy bouquet with autumn leaves and touches of flint coming through with aeration. The palate is well balanced with fine tannin, a certain brightness to the fruit here – resolutely “classic” in style, a “cool” NSG but with very fine delineation on the finish. Not a long-term proposition perhaps, but a well-crafted drop of wine that will repay time in the cellar.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Henri Gouges Les Pruliers, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2014 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru les Pruliers was showing more fruit intensity on the nose than the Porrets, the fruit more black, perhaps a little more oaky than others (although Gregory Gouges told me that this probably derives from the wooden vat after racking). The palate is very harmonious in the mouth. There are supple tannins and good density here with silky textured, sorbet-like freshness on the finish. This is a lovely wine from Gouges, one of their best in this vintage.”
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 90-92 points “Good bright, dark red. Pure and perfumed on the nose, showing a slightly medicinal quality to the aromas of dark raspberry, black cherry, red licorice, spices and spearmint. Broad, supple and classically dry, with dark fruit flavors lifted by a note of rose petal. Longer and more tannic than the Clos des Porrets Saint-Georges but fine-grained for its imposing structure. Gregory Gouges told me he finds this a bit candied for his taste but it does not lack for freshness.”
Burghound 90-93 points “A subtle application of wood frames the spicy red and dark berry fruit that is liberally laced by notes of earth and game. I very much like the intensity and focused power of the concentrated medium weight flavors that display moderate rusticity and a touch of austerity on the impressively complex and persistent finale. Patience required.”
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Domaine Henri Gouges Les Vaucrains, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($149.95) $112 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 91-94 points “Dark red-ruby. Tight, medicinal aromas of black cherry, bitter chocolate and menthol. Very rich and deep, with captivating sweetness cut by medicinal menthol and minerals. Highly concentrated, dense and broad but uncompromisingly dry. Finishes very long and perfumed, with serious saline tension. This very impressive premier cru has a big tannic structure and may well close down after the bottling.”
Burghound 91-94 points “Here too there is a subtle application of wood setting off the intensely spicy and overtly sauvage aromas of mostly cassis and black raspberry aromas that are also liberally laced with warm earth nuances. The muscular big-bodied flavors possess real power and punch along with ample minerality before terminating in a hugely long, complex and well-balanced finale. As it always is this is distinctly old school in style and will definitely require extended cellaring.”
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Domaine Henri Gouges Les Saint-Georges, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 92-94 points “Bright dark red. Cooler, more reticent but very pure aromas of black cherry, licorice and menthol lifted by spices and flowers. Wonderfully sweet and full but weightless. More pliant and silky than the Vaucrains in the early going but still very laid-back despite its more accessible texture and breadth. The long, scented, refined finish features a sneaky whiplash of dark fruits, flowers and minerals.”
Burghound 92-94 points “Once again there is subtle wood present on the spicy, cool and beautifully well-layered nose of ripe dark currant, plum, violet and humus scents. There is a sleek mouth feel to the solidly concentrated and mineral-driven middle weight plus flavors that exhibit outstanding length on the markedly firm finale that is also impeccably well-balanced. Ample patience absolutely required.”
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2014 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru Les Saint Georges has a perfumed nose with blackberry and bilberry fruit, tangible mineral scents, very fine delineation, cold flint and limestone emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, impressive structure, cool, calm and collected, building towards a crisp, tensile tobacco-tinged finish that is deceptively powerful. This will have a lot more to give after bottling, seems resentful that someone would awaken it from its barrel slumber.”
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Ramey
Cellared Releases Arriving in November
After working through various positions in wineries as diverse as Lindeman’s in Australian and Chateau Petrus in Bordeaux, David Ramey decided to found his own winery where his education began: in the heart of California’s winemaking areas of Napa and Sonoma. He contracted with grapegrowers in the Larry Hyde vineyard and produced a scant 260 cases a year for his first two harvests. His reputation for high quality wine spread and so did the contracts: he added two blocks of old vine Wente Clone Chardonnay from the Rudd’s vineyards in Oakville.
Today the winery is known for producing high quality Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux styles blends and Syrahs. For David, this begins with using some of the finest vineyard land in California, near the winery in Healdsburg. In the winery, he employs several methods to create balanced, rich wines with depth and complexity. The wines undergo full malolactic fermentation, fine lees stirring and aging, minimal to no filtration and a balanced approach to oak aging: wines see new oak aging depending upon the wine and vintage. He uses natural yeast fermentation and partial destemming.
These winery-cellared releases will arrive mid-November:
Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2007 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 92 points “A stunning yet reasonably priced, high end Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa. The final bottling from the extraordinary Larkmead Vineyard, it boasts a dense purple color as well as a big, sweet bouquet of blueberry and black currant fruit intertwined with licorice, bay leaf, cedar and fruitcake notes. Full-bodied and opulent, this precocious 2007 is drinkable now and should evolve for another 15+ years.”
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 92 points “(includes 5% merlot, 4% malbec and 2% each of cabernet franc and petit verdot) Inky ruby. Intensely perfumed bouquet of red- and blackcurrant, dark chocolate and anise, with mounting spiciness. More open-knit and accessible than last year’s tasting suggested it would be, offering sweet dark fruit and cherry flavors and building tannins. The fruit takes over on the finish, which echoes the spice and cherry notes. This has turned out better than I expected, perhaps because all of the Larkmead fruit went into this wine in this vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2008 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2008 1.5L($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon impresses for its layers of dark, plush fruit. Hints of cassis, grilled herbs, tobacco and cedar develop in the glass, adding further complexity and depth. Firm tannins frame the long finish. This is a very classic and beautiful Cabernet. In 2008 the blend is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, sourced from a number of sites, including Somerston, DeSantis, Lamoreaux and Snowden.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $75
And don’t miss these top value robust reds, also arriving in November:
Corliss Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2011 750ML ($99.95) $81.90 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 95+ points “(aged in 70% new oak for 28 months): Bright ruby-red. High-pitched, vibrant aromas of cassis, blackberry and licorice, with less obvious oak showing today than in the Red Wine blend. Very broad, creamy and dry, boasting terrific verve and grip to its sappy black fruit, violet, licorice, bitter chocolate and mineral flavors. Very densely packed and primary today, with the very firm but noble tannins to support a long and glorious evolution in bottle. Winemaker Andrew Trio told me that he has been working hard to “bring back the aromatic qualities” of these splendid wines during their long élevage, noting that they are racked only three times in total.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $95.99
Corliss Red, Columbia Valley 2011 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 94+ points “(35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot and 32% Cabernet Franc; aged for 28 months in 65% new French oak, down from 33 months in earlier vintages): Aromas of cassis, blueberry and licorice are lifted by exotic spices. Outstanding energy leavens the sexy sweetness of this sappy, firmly structured midweight, with intense dark fruit flavors lifted by a violet element. Taut and backward like a topnotch young claret, showing a youthfully tight grain. Finishes long and energetic, with firm but sweet tannins and strong graphite minerality. Clearly the finest vintage to date for this bottling, which will not be released until the fall of 2016 and should evolve positively through the 2020s.”
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Lauer Power
New 2015 Offer
Wines Arrive Mid-December
“In these great and exceedingly rare wines of the Saar, there is a combination of qualities which I can perhaps best describe as indescribable – austerity coupled with delicacy and extreme finesse, an incomparable bouquet, a clean, very attractive hardness tempered by a wealth of fruit and flavor which is overwhelming.” – Frank Schoonmaker, “The Wines of Germany”
Situated along the dramatic slopes of the Saar, Florian Lauer farms his family estate with an intense, near-maniacal focus. A focus on native-yeast fermentation and never overworking the wines results in pure, terroir-driven winemaking. Most of the Lauer family holdings lay within the celebrated Ayler Kupp – which, until 2014, were not permitted to have a vineyard-designate beyond simply “Kupp” on the label. Florian Lauer was among those who fought for this change, allowing vintners to more specifically showcase terroir and stylistic differences within these storied vineyards.
Florian’s focus is on dry wines or, perhaps more precisely, dry to dry-tasting to off-dry wines, and he labels his wines with ‘Fass’ numbers, which signify the barrel used during elevage. These barrels are often, but not always, paired with certain vineyard for consecutive vintages.
Over the past few years, Lauer’s efforts have been elevated to a cult-like status without the pesky price hikes which tend to follow. If the Saar isn’t on your map, perhaps it should be!
Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Extra Trocken Fass 2 Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($31.95) $27 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 89-91 points “This cask sample hints at a rich and round feel of greengage, mirabelle, quince and pear on the nose. The wine is gorgeously elegant and precise on the palate, with a ripe and round feel (the wine has actually gone through some malolactic fermentation). The finish is fully dry and outstandingly long and refined. This is a gorgeous wine in the making if it keeps its promises in the bottle.”
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Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Unterstenberg Fass 12 Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “”This offers ample and inviting scents of kumquat, grapefruit, yellow peach and dried herbs on the nose. The wine is smooth and elegant on the palate, where more minerals blend beautifully well into yellow fruits and herbs. The finish is smooth and intense without ever being over-powering. This hugely gains from airing as it sheds its initial touch of CO2 and gains in complexity and finesse by the day, even after 10 days. This is a little masterpiece of delicately off-dry Riesling, and it is worth waiting for its maturity window.”
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Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Stirn Fass 15 Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 93+ points “This offers a pure and gorgeously cool nose of ginger, grapefruit and herbs. The wine starts off on the vibrant and zesty side on the palate, before a touch of smoothness kicks in which cuts right through the crisp finish. The after-taste is seemingly endless as grapefruit and ginger linger on for minutes. Although fermented to off-dry levels, the wine tastes almost dry. This is plain gorgeous and a huge success in an intense yet playful style. We would not be surprised if this proves even better than anticipate at maturity. It is that impressive!”
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Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Neuenberg Fass 17 Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “The 2015er Ayler Kupp Neuenberg Fass 17 is fermented off-dry from parcels in the former single vineyard Neuberg situated just below the Ayler Herrenberger. It offers a gorgeous nose of white and yellow peach, ginger, herbs and spices. The wine is beautifully balanced on the palate, where grip provides great structure and adds to the saline feel in the long finish. This only needs a few years to develop its inner balance and shine.”
Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Fass 8 Kabinett Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 91+ points “This offers a delicately ample nose of yellow fruits, ginger and spices. The wine starts off on the round side before fiery acidity brings zest and vibrancy to the finish. This is refreshing, light and elegant and one magically goes for more. The tart side in the finish will disappear with a few years of bottle aging, and it could then easily warrant an even higher rating.”
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Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Lambertskirch Kabinett Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($41.95) $36 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 91 points “This offers a gorgeous nose of passion fruit and a hint of coconut and ginger. The wine is delicately creamy and quite richly fruity on the palate and leaves a zesty feel in the long finish. This is nicely made in a delicately creamy expression of racy Kabinett.”
Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Fass 7 Spatlese Riesling, Saar, Mosel 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 93 points “This offers a stunning nose of canned yellow peach, exotic fruits and dollops of herbs and minerals. The wine is gorgeously racy and vibrant on the palate as zesty grapefruit and more minerals come through in the gloriously mouthwatering finish. There is quite some intensity at play here yet this remains superbly playful and animating. What a beauty!”
October Sales Recap
Read reviews and browse the full selection of sale wines by searching for “October Sale” on our web store – we’re also happy to talk you through the offerings if you email us at info@vinopoliswineshop.com or call 503-223-6002.
