New Week – New Arrivals; New November Sales; Magnum Madness: Kapcsandy Magnums Have Just Arrived!; Classics Corner: Hard to Find Wines from DRC, Chateau Haut Brion, Sine Qua Non, Colgin, and more!; Thanksgiving Approaches – Stock Up on Great Pairings and Party Pleasers; New Reviews from James Suckling: 2014 Willamette Valley (and one 2013 Chardonnay); Great Ganevat: Just Arrived; Our Super-Secret Vatan Offer; Stella di Campalto: Benchmark Brunello Riservas Arriving in January; November Sales Recap
New Week – New Arrivals
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Oregon
Johan Vineyards Estate Gruner Veltliner, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($29.95) $27 special
John Gilman 93 points “The 2014 Grüner Veltliner from Johan Vineyards is barrel-fermented and comes in at a very civilized 11.8 percent alcohol in this vintage. The wine offers up a really lovely nose of apple, pink grapefruit, a nice touch of the varietal’s herbal complications (mostly fresh rosemary), really lovely soil tones, citrus peel and a smoky topnote. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, focused and complex, with excellent acids, an impressive core of fruit and lovely transparency on the long, poised and perfectly balanced finish. This is an utterly complete and compelling wine at a very low and enjoyable alcohol level. It is one of the most impressive examples of Grüner Veltliner I have tasted in several years, with the palate impact of a wine a couple of points higher in octane. This is eye-opening juice!”
Omero Cellars Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
John Gilman 92 points “The 2014 Willamette Valley bottling of chardonnay from Omero Cellars is outstanding on both the nose and palate. The bouquet jumps from the glass in a superb blend of pear, white peach, gentle leesy tones, hazelnut, lovely soil nuances, a touch of vanillin oak and a bit of acacia blossom in the upper register. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, focused and nicely light on its feet on the backend, with a good core, impeccable balance and lovely length and grip on the vibrant finish. This wine comes in at an even thirteen percent alcohol and is really lovely juice out of the blocks, but this will age gracefully as well.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ovum ‘Love Me or Leave Me’ Gerber Vineyard Gewurztraminer 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
John Gilman 93 points “This 2015 Gewürztraminer from Ovum Wines hails from the Gerber Vineyard and these vines were planted in 1976. The wine comes in at 12.8 percent octane and was finished with seven grams per liter of residual sugar. The bouquet wafts from the glass in lovely and utterly classic blend of lychee nut, rosewater, a touch of spices meats, a nice dollop of soil and a touch of white flowers in the upper register. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, crisp and nascently complex, with an excellent core of fruit, bright acids, lovely focus and grip and a very long, still quite primary finish. The seven grams of residual sugar simply buffer the acidity here seamlessly and the overall impression is of a bone dry wine. This reminds me a lot of a top young vintage of Trimbach Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre, which is about as high praise as I can offer for young gewürztraminer! Excellent juice.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $27.99
Timothy Malone Dundee Hills Pinot Noir 2014 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special
100% La Colina Vineyard. A blend of Wadensville and Pommard clones.
Timothy Malone Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Washington
Horsepower Vineyards ‘The Tribe Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($199.95) $179 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “Just ever so slightly richer and more textured than the Sur Echalas Vineyard, the 2013 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard is a blockbuster effort that is up there with the crème de la crème of the vintage. Concentrated, full-bodied, sexy and layered on the palate, it has to-die-for notes of black cherries, currants, olives, steak tartare and Hermitage-like scorched earth characteristics. Like the other 2013s here, it needs 4-5 years of cellaring and will have two decades of longevity.”
California
Joseph Swan Vineyards Bastoni Vineyards Zinfandel, Sonoma County 2012 750ML ($34.95) $29 special
“Located in what I refer to as the Riebli Valley, just a few miles east of Hwy 101, this site has been farmed by the Bastoni family since 1906…. Although the old vines are gone, the replants are going strong and are meticulously cared for….It exhibits what I have come to view as a classic Bastoni nose of deep blue tinged fruit, like a cross between boysenberries and blueberries. There is also a slight hint of cooking spice, perhaps cardamom, and much less pepper than we see in the lower Russian River Valley zins. Good but not overwhelming tannin and acidity and medium to full body.”–Winery Notes
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Joseph Swan Vineyards Mancini Ranch Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2012 750ML ($34.95) $29 special
“Planted in the early 1920’s to Zinfandel and a host of other grapes. This will be the final vintage for this vineyard as a few years after Frank Mancini’s passing, the vineyard was sold. Blackberry, white pepper floral hints, bit of lushness. Complex balanced, elegant. A classic old style zinfandel made with new age sensibilities. And, it is under 13% alcohol!”–Winery Notes
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Joseph Swan Vineyards Ziegler Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2012 750ML ($34.95) $29 special
“Like its neighbor across the road, Mancini Ranch, Zeigler Vineyard was planted in the early 1920’s. However, for no explainable reason, it starts its spring growth and ripens about two weeks earlier than its neighbor. Boysenberry and the usual black pepper aromas are there but there is also cardamom, a bit of allspice and dried rose petal. It is super complex. At only 13% alcohol, almost as low as Mancini, it is not lacking at all for body. Our favorite Zeigler in a long while.”–Winery Notes
Bedrock Wine Co. Cuvee Karatas White Blend, Sonoma County 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Robert Parker 94 points “The 2015 Cuvée Karatas Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, the latter from a parcel of Semillon planted in the 1880s in the Monte Rosso Vineyard. Morgan Peterson says it is “one-of-a-kind stuff” and there is no reason to doubt him. This is more of an over-the-top flamboyant, rather amazing wine with notes of orange marmalade, honeydew melon, jam, quince, white currants and flowers. There was an almost unctuous quality to the texture and super-concentration from these two varieties. Most of this is from dry-farmed vineyards and the honeyed, low-yields that were present in 2015 are translated into this wonderfully fresh, incredible wine that almost behaves like one of the great Ygrecs from Chateau d’Yquem. Drink it over the next 5-7 years, although I wouldn’t be surprised to see it last longer.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $43
Bedrock Wine Co. Evangelho Vineyard Heritage Red, Contra Costa County 2015 750ML ($39.95) $36 special
Robert Parker 93 points “From Contra Costa County, the 2015 Proprietary Red Evangelho Heritage comes from directly rooted Zinfandel, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Palomino, Alicante and Mission all planted in the 1890s on what is basically a sandy bench. The briary intensity of the Zinfandel is well-displayed, but then the blue and black fruits seem to jump out as do some dusty/loamy soil notes, forest floor, underbrush, pepper and background smoky notes. This is rich, floral, heady, intriguing and provocative. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.”
Bedrock Wine Co. ‘The Bedrock Heritage’ Wine, Sonoma Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Robert Parker 96 points “Possibly the flagship wine is the 2015 Proprietary Red The Bedrock Heritage. This ancient vineyard is planted with 27 different varieties, so I won’t even begin to list them, as that is a book in itself. This is Rhône Valley-like, with notes of Mediterranean herbs, blackberries, blueberries, loamy soil notes, incense, creosote, steak tartare and pepper followed by a wine of great intensity – built like a skyscraper, with layers of fruit and extraction. It is a sensational effort, super-complex, and best drunk over the next decade.”
Bedrock Wine Co. Lorenzo’s Heritage, Dry Creek Valley 2014 750ML ($59.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Lorenzo’s Heritage Wine exudes Dry Creek intensity, with searing tannin and vibrant acidity that support a core of blue and purplish-hued fruits. This powerful, virile wine needs time in the bottle, as it is raw and not fully formed today. Still, I find it absolutely compelling.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
France-Champagne
Jacques Selosse Brut Rose, Champagne NV 750ML ($349.95) $319 special
Importer note “Anselme Selosse’s Rosé is pure, intensely mineral Chardonnay from a pair of vintages, with a small amount of still Ambonnay Pinot Noir added.”
France-Burgundy
Clotilde Davenne Domaine Les Temps Perdus Cremant de Bourgogne Brut Extra NV 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Clotilde Davenne Domaine Les Temps Perdus Cremant de Bourgogne Brut Extra Rose NV 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Roulot Meursault Les Meix Chavaux 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Meursault les Meix Chavaux has a sense of symmetry on the nose, a little more delicate than the Vireuils with a hint of lavender and potpourri that develops with time in the glass. However, it is not inclined to give much away at the moment. The palate has a twist of bitter lemon on the entry that imports edginess and tension to this Meursault. This is a little wilder than Les Vireuils, a touch spicier with a hint of white fennel toward the finish. This is superb, one of the most outgoing Meix Chavaux that Jean-Marc Roulot has overseen. How can so much pleasure fit into a wine glass?”
Domaine Bachelet-Monnot Les Folatieres, Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Wine Advocate 93-95 points “The 2014 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru les Folatières is a slightly riper and more tropical bouquet, perhaps more “2014” than the Referts with hints of tinned peach and fresh pear on the nose, lime developing with continued aeration. The palate is clean and fresh with a killer line of acidity, vibrant and poised, and with more density than the 2014 Referts with superb salinity towards the finish. Beautiful, just beautiful.”
Domaine Bachelet-Monnot En Remilly, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2014 Saint Aubin 1er Cru en Remilly, picked at the beginning of the harvest, has a refined bouquet that gently builds in the glass with lime, Granny Smiths and cold limestone scents that are very “En Remilly”. The palate is tensile from the start, liquid rocks here, very Puligny-like with superb tension and nervosité towards the finish. This is one of the best you will find from this propitious vineyard and a brilliant success for the domaine. Fill ‘ya boots!”
France-Bordeaux
Chateau Duhart-Milon, Pauillac 2012 750ML ($99.95) $88 special
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “This marks an impressive step forward for this wine that’s so often been in the shadows of other wines in the Lafite-Rothschild stable. It’s dense and structured as well as deliciously fruity. The wine is straight down the line, starting with perfumed acidity and finishing with blackberry fruit. Intense and tannic, it’s likely to age.”
France-Jura
For the complete list of new releases from Ganevat, see our special feature below!
Italy
Batista Cola Extra Brut Franciacorta DOCG, Lombardy NV 750ML ($21.95) $18.80 special
Germany
Weingut Robert Weil Kiedricher Grafenberg Riesling Erstes Gewachs, Rheingau 2014 750ML ($89.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The 2014 Kiedricher Grafenberg Riesling trocken GG combines the fine and highly elegant Riesling fruit of the Klosterberg with the finesse-full and precise purity of the Gräfenberg phyllite terroir. Piquant and complex on the palate with great finesse and coolish precision, this is the aristocrat among the dry Weil Rieslings; its length is lovely, salty and full of tension. Great purity and elegance, as well as great aging potential. So much delicacy here and purity, so vital and elegant, well balanced. The length is not due to the alcohol, but the acidity and salinity.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $74.98
Spain
CVNE Compania Vinicola del Norte de Espana Cune Gran Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2010 750ML ($34.95) $29.90 special
Wine Spectator 94 points “This generous red shows a traditional character, with leafy, dried herb, tea and spice notes framing dried cherry, licorice and leather flavors. Firm tannins and balsamic acidity impart structure, and this shows plenty of depth, with a juicy, spicy finish. Drink now through 2025.”
Argentina
Bodega Tapiz ‘Zolo’ Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Uco Valley 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 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 average price is $20
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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!
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New November Sales
Philippe Foreau Domaine du Clos Naudin Vouvray Moelleux Reserve, Loire 2009 750ML ($119.95) Was $79, Now $71.90, 35 bottles available
Wine Advocate 97 points “What there was in this vintage of botrytis, Foreau reports, essentially went into his 2009 Vouvray Moelleux Reserve. Brown-spiced pear liqueur and quince preserves dominate the proceedings – wreathed in perfume of freesia and lily – and there are buoyancy and elegance, despite viscosity, enormous richness of texture and residual sweetness, that indeed point to the magic nobility rot can convey. Its sense of lift – when combined with luscious, still juicy suggestions of grapefruit and blood orange familiar from the corresponding demi-sec – wards off any risk of palate fatigue. Mysterious botrytis manifestations of stale bread, truffle, and white raisin emerge from the empty glass. This extraordinary achievement will stand with such past great Foreau moelleux reserves as 2005, 2003, and 1989-90 and is likely to merit 30 or more years of consideration. In direct comparison, what strikes one about the 2005 today is its more obvious sense of botrytis and its slightly diminished sense of acidity and lift. But it maintains the edge in sheer complexity.” WA
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $91
Domaine de la Grange des Peres, IGP Pays de l’Herault 2011 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79, 32 bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “A distinctive red, this has dried red berry and meaty notes supported by a tangy acidity. With lightly chewy tannins, this shows savory spice, bitter herb and fresh earth flavors on the finish. Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Sauvignon and Counoise. Drink now through 2017. 165 cases imported.” WS
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $121
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux, Rhone 2013 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79, 22 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Grippy and well-packed, with a core of macerated currant, blackberry and raspberry flavors, offering mouthwatering notes of bay, roasted alder, tar and ganache. Best from 2017 through 2027.”JM
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 -93 points “Vivid ruby. Deeply pitched dark berry and cherry pit scents open slowly, picking up hints of lavender, anise and allspice. Taut and sharply focused, with bitter cherry and boysenberry flavors given spine by juicy acidity. Shows excellent clarity and power on the long, youthfully tannic finish, with the cherry and floral notes echoing.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux, Rhone 2014 750ML ($119.95) Was $79, Now $69, 24 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Intense, with lots of grip along the edges, as rosemary, tobacco and charcoal notes coil around the core of steeped plum, blackberry and red currant fruit. Best from 2018 through 2024.”J.M.
Jeb Dunnuck – Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The most mineral-driven in the lineup, the 2014 Gigondas le Claux is almost 100% Grenache, and was fermented with 100% stems and aged in Burgundy barrels. Freshly crushed rocks, black currants, forest floor and truffle notes all flow beautifully to a medium to full-bodied, layered, sexy and nicely concentrated Gigondas that has enough fruit to drink well on release, yet the structure, balance and depth to evolve for 10-15 years. It’s an undeniable success in the vintage.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92-94 points “Vivid ruby-red. Highly perfumed red fruit liqueur, potpourri and Asian spice scents show impressive clarity and vivacity. Sappy, tangy and precise, offering lively raspberry and floral pastille flavors and a touch of spicecake. Closes on a smoky mineral note, displaying superb focus, silky tannins and emphatic, floral-driven persistence.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
We’re up to 56 wines on sale through the month of November. For the complete list see our spread sheet at the end of this newsletter!
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Magnum Madness
Newly Arrived from Kapscsandy:
Old World Approach, New World Estate
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Roberta’s Reserve, Napa Valley 2012 1.5L ($799.95) $699 special, 2 magnums available
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!
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Grand-Vin Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2009 1.5L ($799.95) $699 special, 3 magnums available
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 State Lane Vineyard Grand-Vin Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 1.5L ($1,099.95) $899 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 cr?me 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.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Kapcsandy Family Winery Endre, Napa Valley 2010 1.5L ($219.95) $179 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.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price for the magnum is $225
We offer 103 wines in magnum format – here are a few in-stock selections for your next holiday party!
Champagne Hebrart Special Club Millesime Brut, Champagne 2010 1.5L ($219.95) $189 special, 4 magnums available
Terry Theise note “I must again speculate that there’s a tiny tip of the pyramid in 2010 that will give sensational wines in an otherwise meh vintage that tends to run lean. Otherwise I can scarcely comprehend how this wine can be so amazingly good. It only indicates the vintage by being ever-so-slightly airy in the finish. But what precedes that has many of the virtues of the supernal 2008, just not the “sweet-fruit” ripeness. But the chalk is a powdery quilt of richness, less hedonistic but every bit as convincing. What a trio these last three Clubs are, 08-09-10, like half-sibs of one another. Be happy if you own all three. It’s 35% old vines PN from Mareuil (from Faubourg d’Enfer and Croix Blanche), 20% PN from Aÿ (Cheuzelles, Pierre Robert), 25% CH old-vines Mareuil (Beauregard, Ramonette), and 20% CH Oiry and Chouilly. It’s a Coeur de Cuvée (heart of the freerun), deg 07/14.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut A.J. Adam Dhroner Hofberg Riesling Spatlese, Mosel 2014 1.5L ($119.95) $89 special, 3 magnums available
Wine Advocate 92 points “From a warmer vineyard that was planted in 1953 with ungrafted vines that deliver small, healthy berries and low yields, the 2014 Hofberg Spätlese displays an intense and ripe apple bouquet mixed with flinty and spicy/mineral aromas. Picked with 92° Oechsle, this is an elegant, round and voluptuous Riesling with a smooth palate, but also a piquant and mineral acidity that takes this lush and sensual Spätlese to a long, charming finish with a lingering and mouthwatering salinity.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $100.05
Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Meursault Charmes, Meursault Premier Cru 2012 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 6 magnums available
Importer’ note: “This cuvée is one of the gems of the domaine, a complete expression of this vineyard’s special character as Bitouzet’s holdings fall within two separate sites: one from the high part (“du Haut”) and another from the lower section (“du Bas”). The two parcels are vinified separately and then blended together before bottling to create the whole. The lower section provides a stony minerality and an almost tannic expression; the upper section yields explosive aromatics as well as a round, buttery mouthfeel. The two parcels make up a total of 0.55 hectare; the vines were planted in 1944 and another section in 1987. The soil is a pebbly limestone with sand and loam consistency. Two barrels are reserved for the US market and, at our request, magnums and occasionally double magnums are prepared.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2013 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special, 4 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2013 Barbaresco Tre Stelle is quite a bit deeper and richer than the Rio Sordo, with more freshness and overall structure to match. Sweet red cherry, tobacco, incense and leather flesh out as the wine fills out its frame effortlessly. Ample and generous, the 2013 Tre Stelle is an attractive Barbaresco that should provide a number years of enjoyable drinking. This is very nicely done.”
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Tenuta Col d’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2010 1.5L ($149.95) $99 special, 14 magnums available
Wine Spectator 93 points “This smells like beef bouillon, picking up pure cherry and plum fruit on the palate, along with savory elements. Lean, with well-integrated tannins and a long, meaty finish of tobacco and earth. Best from 2018 through 2030.”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Col d’Orcia’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Vendemmia is all finesse. Sweet floral and spiced notes open up in the glass, followed by veins of bright red stone fruits. Hints of orange peel and white pepper add an attractive, beguiling upper register of aromatics. The 2010 is still a bit raw and much less expressive than it was from barrel, but it is promising.”
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Classics Corner
From France:
Chateau Haut-Brion, Pessac-Leognan 1989 750ML ($1,699.95) $1,299 special, 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 100 points “This continues to be one of the immortal wines and one of the greatest young Bordeaux wines of the last half-century. Consistently prodigious and almost a sure bet to top the scoring card of any blind tasting of this vintage as well as other years, the 1989 Haut-Brion is a seamless, majestic classic, and a tribute to this phenomenal terroir and its singular characteristics. The wine still has a very thick, viscous-looking ruby/purple color, a spectacular, young but awesome smorgasbord of aromas ranging from scorched earth, liquid minerals, graphite, blackberry and black currant jam to toast, licorice, and spice box. The levels of fruit, extract, and glycerin in this viscous, full-bodied, low-acid wine are awe-inspiring. The brilliant symmetry of the wine, extraordinary purity, and seamlessness are the hallmarks of a modern-day legend. It is still in its pre-adolescent stage of development, and I would not expect it to hit its full plateau of maturity for another 3-5 years, but this should be an Haut-Brion that rivals the greatest ever made at this estate. Life is too short not to drink this wine as many times as possible! A modern day clone of the 1959? Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030. Last tasted, 1/03.”
Wine Spectator 100 points “What a gorgeous, seductive and beautiful wine, as always. I can’t get over the perfumed aromas of subtle milk chocolate, cedar and sweet tobacco. Full-bodied, yet so refined and silky, lasting for minutes on the palate. Everything is in just the right proportion. This is a wine that will go on forever. I love it. One of my great loves in the wine world.—’89/’99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009).”
Our bottle comes from an American importer who acquired it on original release and cellared until now.
The bottle is pristine and features a fill in the neck.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $1,687
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru 1993 750ML ($1,799.95) $1,349 special, 1 bottle available
***Pristine condition–Fill 1/2″ below capsule***
Wine Advocate 91 points “It has been several years since I last tasted this vintage of Aubert de Villaine’s Richebourg. This bottle has a pretty, generous bouquet with small dark cherries, iodine and raspberry preserve, the mineral component only becoming apparent with time in the glass. The palate is structured, more masculine than the nose suggests, supple and pure with a cohesive, rather sinewy finish. This is not a flamboyant Richebourg: more strict and unyielding, so I would give it another three or four years in the cellar. Tasted May 2013.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $1,899
From California:
Screaming Eagle ‘Second Flight’, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($599.95) $519 special, 5 bottles available
James Suckling 97 points “Very bright and aromatic with dark purple fruits on the nose. Mint, floral and vine bark. Spearmint. Full body, very firm tannins, wonderful savoriness. Flavorful finish. A fabulous mouthfeel. Very, very long. Mostly merlot with cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Drink or hold.”
Sine Qua Non Into The Dark Grenache 2004 1.5L ($2,199.95) $1,799 special, 1 magnum available
Wine Advocate 99 points “More up-front and open-knit, the 2004 Into the Dark (Grenache) checks in as a blend of 84% Grenache, 8% Mourvedre, 7% Syrah and 1% Viognier that comes mostly from Manfred’s 11 Confessions Vineyard, yet includes small portions from Alban (10%) and Alta Mesa (9%) Vineyard. Reminding me of Clos Saint-Jean’s Sanctus Sanctorum with its incredible bouquet of sweet kirsch, licorice, dried baking spices, graphite and ground pepper, this beauty flows onto the palate with impeccable purity, perfect integration of its fruit, tannin and acidity, and blockbuster length. As is common with this estate’s wine, it’s the purity paired with serious richness that sets it apart. While still youthful and benefiting from a healthy decadence, I think it’s drinking at point and would aim to drink bottles over the coming 4-5 years. It will evolve gracefully for longer, but I see no reason to hold off.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $2,328.99
Why pay $529.99 more?
Sine Qua Non Patine Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard 2011 750ML ($349.95) $299 special, 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 97 points “Coming all from Manfred’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and a blend of 77% Grenache, 22% Syrah and 1% Viognier (fermented with 25% whole clusters), the 2011 Grenache Patine spent a full 33 months in almost all neutral oak, with just 11% being new. It offers perfumed and spice-laced notes of white pepper, black raspberry, blackberry and ground herbs that flow to a full-bodied, elegant, nicely concentrated 2011 that has nicely integrated acidity, no hard edges and a terrific finish. It’s certainly one of the fresher, more elegant Grenaches from Manfred, yet it still has rocking levels of fruit. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and enjoy bottles over the following decade.” JD
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $428
Sine Qua Non Patine Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard 2011 750ML ($599.95) $449 special, 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 98 points “A wine that needs to be forgotten in the cellar for 5-6 years, the 2011 Syrah Patine checks in as a blend of roughly 97% Syrah and the balance Roussanne and Viognier. It too comes all from the estate’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard and saw 39 months in 63% new French oak. Backward, tight, concentrated and structured, with full-bodied richness and depth, it gives up Guigal La Landonne like aromas and flavors of graphite, sweet oak, smoked meats, pepper and black raspberry and cassis-like fruit. While it shows the vintage’s cooler nature, it has a stacked mid-palate and will evolve gracefully for 15-20 years.” JD
Sine Qua Non Poker Face Syrah 2004 750ML ($899.95) $559 special, 1 bottle available
Sine Qua Non Poker Face Syrah 2004 1.5L ($2199.95) $1999 special, 1 magnum available
Wine Advocate 97 points “Starting off the Syrah-based wines, the 2004 Poker Face (Syrah) is aging beautifully. A blend of 96% Syrah, 2.5% Mourvedre and 1.5% Viognier (from the Eleven Confessions, White Hawk, Alban, Bien Nacido, and Alta Mesa vineyards) that was aged in 80% new French oak, it offers up a perfumed, fresh bouquet of sweet blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis, spring flowers and licorice that gives way to a full-bodied, seamless, gorgeously textured feel on the palate. Rich and decadent, it has notable, yet beautifully integrated acidity and stays remarkably fresh, detailed and even elegant. It still needs a lengthy decant to shine, and will continue to thrill over the coming decade or so.”
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
The next best price for the 750ML is $595
The next best price for the magnum is $2,175
Sine Qua Non Raven Series Grenache #8 2006 1.5L ($1199.95) $999 special, 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 98 points “This blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah, largely from the 11 Confessions Vineyard, with a small amount from Bien Nacido, spent 21 months in barrel. It is really strutting its stuff now, and showing even better than my original note predicted in August of 2009. The wine has loads of meat, licorice, smoke, charcoal and graphite, as well as huge peppery, blackberry and black cherry notes. Full-bodied, with great acidity, nicely integrated tannin, an admirable mouthfeel and tremendous length, this killer Grenache is still young and probably 3-5 years away from prime time drinking.”
This is the only listing for the magnum in the USA today!
Sine Qua Non Raven Series Syrah #10 2006 1.5L ($999.95) $799 special, 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2006 Raven Series Syrah, a blend of 93% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and 2% Viognier that spends just under two years in French oak. Offering a dense purple color, gorgeous fruit, and a sweet perfume of graphite, blackberries, blueberries, charcoal, licorice, tar, and new oak, it is a dense, full-bodied, well-endowed, beautifully layered, pure Syrah that should drink well for 10-15 years.”
This is the only listing for the magnum in the USA today!
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Classic Wines Arriving Mid-November:
Colgin Cellars IX Estate Red, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($699.95) $579 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 100 points “Another perfect wine from Ann Colgin and her winemaking team is the 2013 IX Proprietary Red Estate, a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot. An absolutely compelling wine, with notes of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, blueberry, blackberry and cassis, it has the full smorgasbord of black and blue fruits, wonderfully integrated, toasty oak, acidity and tannin, a floral note that is unmistakable, and great richness, density and purity. It is an utterly exceptional wine and a tribute to not only a great vineyard, but impeccable winemaking and upbringing. It should drink well for 30+ years as well.”
Chateau Pavie, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2000 1.5L ($1,999.95) $1,699 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 100 points “Just beginning to come around and strut its enormous potential, this wine at age 15 has been evolving like a glacier. The wine has an inky, opaque, plum/purple color and a stunningly rich nose of mulberries, bramble berries, blackberries, licorice and incense as well as touches of toast and graphite. Fabulously concentrated and full-bodied, with a multidimensional mouthfeel, this profound Pavie is in mid-adolescence. It should evolve and continue to drink well for at least another 30-40 years. This is clearly the first compelling effort made by the Perse family.” 8/2015
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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!
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Thanksgiving Wines
Our picks for great Thanksgiving pairings!
Cameron Winery Pinot Gris Ramato, Dundee Hills 2015 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
Winery note “Rame: Italian for copper, ramato: copper-colored. Ramato is a copper-colored Pinot grigio made in the tradition of north-eastern Italy. A very tricky wine to pull off. Very limited production.”
Arriving Next Week
Aubry Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $36 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Aubry Premier Cru Brut, Champagne 750ML ($479.95) $399 pre-arrival special (that’s only $33.25/bottle!)
Terry Theise Note: “Deg 1/2015, 50% 2012 and 50% the “perpetual reserve” that goes back to 1998. Still 45% Meunier, 25% CH, 25% PN and 5% “other.” (This was done one year when there was more “other” than could fill a tank, so the excess was put into the NV, and they liked it, not to mention it’s the only NV Brut in Champagne with Arbanne and Petit Meslier in the mix.) Meunier expresses here as barley, rusks, crackers, and so the wine is rusky, saline, iodé, mineral and appetizing. That’s the paradigm, at any rate. The fragrance of this years edition is back in form, or mostly—the little bit of ’11 in the reserve wine is, let’s say, not invisible. But the ripeness of ’12 nearly blankets it; otherwise it’s the briny coppery wine we know and love.”
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New Reviews for Willamette Valley Wines from James Suckling
“Oregon pinot is close in flavor profile to Burgundy and less dense and fruity than, say, California or New Zealand’s Central Otago. Some regions such as Gippsland, Geelong and Mornington in Australia make similar structured pinots. All of this, I’ve known for some time. What I did not know prior to my tasting was just how consistent the wines would be from producer to producer. I rated close to 90 percent of the wines 90 points or more. About 12%, or 36 wines, scored 95 points or more. It helps that the region is coming on-line with a string of excellent vintages, starting with 2014. Most of the wines I scored were from 2014, one of the hottest and driest in memory delivering one of the earliest harvests ever. The grapes picked were in near-perfect condition and yielded wines with generous richness but also an underlying freshness. They had bright and vivid fruit that seemed to hover over the glass with brilliance and verve. They’re crowd pleasers.” –James Suckling
Bergstrom Wines Old Stones Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($37.95) $33 special, 8 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “A pretty chardonnay full of green apples, citrus and wet-stone undertones. The palate shows dried fruits, lively acidity and a flavorful finish. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ayres Lewis Rogers Lane Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($34.95) $29 special, 4 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “A linear and fresh pinot with firm yet soft tannins and a savory and fruity finish. Subtle and racy. Drink or hold.”
Ayres Pioneer Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 7 bottles available
James Suckling 91 points “Another fruit-forward red with ripe tannins and lots of berry and cherry character. Full and velvety. Drink now.”
Ayres Perspective Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 10 bottles available
James Suckling 90 points “Very fruity aromas with hints of strawberry jam. Full-bodied, soft and fruity. A little one-dimensional and very fruit-forward. Shows the very ripe nature of the hot 2014 vintage. A little overdone but some may love it. Drink now.”
Brick House Vineyards ‘Evelyn’s’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 4 bottles available
James Suckling 92 points “Floral with violets, cola, red cherries and earthy hints. The palate shows pretty berry flavors and a good backbone of tannins and lively acidity. Drink now.”
Brick House Vineyards Select Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($37.95) $33 special, 12 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “Dried fruit with strawberry and plum undertones. Crushed stones and tea leaves in the background. Medium to full body, velvety tannins and a long and savory finish. Shows intensity and panache. Drink or hold.”
Cristom Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 18 bottles available
James Suckling 92 points “Aromas of dried strawberries, figs and hints of toffee follow through to a full body, round and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Drink now.”
Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 7 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “Lovely richness and decadence to this on the nose with plum, chocolate and violet character plus hints of violets. Medium to full body, silky tannins and a savory finish. Hints of hazelnuts. Drink or hold.”
Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 18 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “Aromas of toffee, ripe fruit and chocolate follow through to a full body, soft tannins and walnut/hazelnut undertones. Soft-textured. Delicious finish. Drink or hold.”
Bergstrom Wines Gregory Ranch Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
James Suckling 92 points “Rich wine with velvety tannins and lots of fruit. Full body and round and juicy fruit. Tar and dried-fruit undertones here. Drink now.”
Bergstrom Wines ‘Cumberland’ Reserve Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2014 750ML ($44.95) $39 special, 5 bottles available
James Suckling 92 points “Subtle aromas of walnuts, tea, cedar and berries follow through to a medium to full body, silky tannins and a fresh and clean finish. A lightly salty undertone. Drink now.”
Bergstrom Wines Le Pre Du Col Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
James Suckling 93 points “Aromas of stones, tar and bark with dark fruit follow through to a full body, firm and chewy tannins and a tangy undertone. Shows form and tension. Better in 2019.”
J. Christopher Lia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains 2014 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 11 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “Aromas of dried berries, chocolate and walnut skin. Full body, tight tannins and fresh acidity. This is a young wine that needs time to open but it’s already exciting. Better in 2019.”
J. Christopher ‘Sandra Adele’ Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2014 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 3 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “Ripe strawberries with hints of spices and dried flowers on the nose. Medium to full body, silky tannins and a clean and racy finish. Very intense and focused. Drink or hold.”
Bethel Heights Vineyard Flat Block Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
James Suckling 94 points “Very interesting aromas of rust, stones, rosemary and strawberries. Full-bodied and tight yet formed and toned. Lovely potential here. Give a couple of years to come together. Better in 2018 or after.”
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Newly Arrived from the Jura
Profound Wines from the Great Ganevat
Between Burgundy and the border of Switzerland in eastern France is the obscure and intriguing wine producing region of the Jura. Vineyards are mostly planted along the lower-lying western section of the Jura Mountains facing south to maximize sun exposure. The soil throughout the Jura is composed of Jurassic limestone and marlstone, similar to Chablis and the upper Loire, and was named for the Jura Mountains. The summers in the region are warm and dry and the winters are cold. Due to the region’s isolation, traditional winemaking techniques are still in common practice and its unique regional grape varieties still dominate the landscape.
Since 1650, Jean-Francois Ganevat’s family has grown wine grapes and produced wine in the hamlet of La Combe in the Jura. Jean-Francois Ganevat, after working for his father and Domain Jean-Marc Morey in Burgundy, took over the domaine in 1998 as the fourteenth generation of the family. From his small 21 acres of land, he produces up to forty different wines each year; a potpourri of small quantities. Some of these varieties are ancient native varieties not allowed under the AOC, such as Petit Béclan, Portugais Bleu, Enfariné, Argant, Poulsard Blanc. These are inter-planted in his vineyards, and he is in the process of declassifying his wines to allow for their legal inclusion.
Ganevat’s vineyards are grown along slopes in this cool climate. His vineyard practices are exacting and biodynamic. He is known for hand trimming individual grapes from the stems directly into old barrels to ferment whole-berry. This preserves a small section of the stem and keeps the berries completely intact. In the winery, Ganevat ages his whites for extended periods on the lees, so he only needs minute amounts of sulfur, if any, during bottling. His whites undergo malolactic fermentation and are aged for at least two years before bottling. His reds are aged in barrel at least one year. His wines are light and elegant in style.
We’re proud to announce our newly arrived diverse allocation of Ganevat
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Our Super Secret Vatan Offer
Arriving Late November
Not available online – to order, please reply to this email or call- only 12 bottles available
Edmond Vatan Sancerre Clos la Neore, Loire 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Importer note “Some winemakers are producers. A few are truly artisans. And then there are that handful who could perhaps be best described as monastic in their approach-making wine, as their duty, in complete harmony with their creator. With Vatan, I find it preposterous to “judge” vintages. Literally, no matter what the conditions of the year, whatever this domaine creates is remarkable, with amazing consistency from vintage to vintage. When once I asked Monsieur Vatan how he could do this, he replied that it is so simple a matter that it needs no explanation — if you plant low-yielding vines on only the steepest, perfectly exposed slopes, prune severely, provide only necessary and natural treatments, (and as little as possible, forcing the vine down for strength and character), harvesting after all the rest have finished (no problem finding pickers then!) and vinifying according only to the traditional (actually ancient) methods — it becomes a question of comparing the personality of each vintage, not which is “better.” What is this word “ancient” I use? Vinification in old, old barrels — a natural vessel – – but not of new oak, which would interfere with the natural fruit of the Sauvignon and terroir of Chavignol; one racking, and then bottling with no fining or filtration when the conditions are perfect in nature. If this sounds too out-moded to be true, you are in for an experience with your first taste. A unique wine which is unequalled, and only approached in Sancerre by the Cotat Domaine, which is enormous in comparison to Vatan (total production 500 cases, of which we in America get 125). Since the 2008 vintage, Edmond’s daughter, Anne Vatan-Foucault has taken over wine-making and administration of the domaine, and the results continue to be spectacular.”
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Stella di Campalto
The Heart & Soul of Brunello
These Benchmark Brunello Wines Arrive in January
Stella di Campalto Podere San Giuseppe Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2009 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni–Vinous 92 points “The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is quite open-knit, radiant and accessible. Raspberry jam, white pepper, flowers, mint and sweet spices hove on the palate in a decidedly mid-weight Brunello that emphasizes grace and agility. The persistent, textured finish is striking. It will be interesting to see if the 2009 puts on weight in bottle, or if it remains the slightly fragile, fleeting wine it is today. Stella di Campalto’s wines never lack intrigue, that is for sure.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $108
Stella di Campalto Podere San Giuseppe Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2010 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Stella di Campalto Podere San Giuseppe Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2010 1.5L ($379.95) $289 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni–Vinous 97 points “Stella di Campalto’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is one of the many wines of the night. The aromatics alone are striking, yet it is the wine’s total balance and harmony that are so incredibly inviting. It’s almost a shame to serve this wine so early in the tasting, but even later, after all the other big guns have been served, Campalto’s 2010 is still stunning. Campalto’s decision to give her Brunello a year more in bottle prior to release has turned out to be wise choice, as the 2010 Riserva is far more harmonious than it has ever been in the past. This is a rock-star Brunello.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Stella di Campalto Podere San Guiseppe Rosso di Montalcino 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni–Vinous 92 points “The 2012 Rosso di Montalcino is wonderfully direct and super-polished, both of which make it nearly impossible to resist, even at this early stage. Bright, bold and punchy, the 2012 offers lovely brightness to contrast its racy, red-toned fruit. Often, the Rosso here is a bit ethereal. The 2012 is one of the racier Rossos in recent memory. Rose petal, mint and sweet raspberry notes linger on the super-polished, aromatic finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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November Sales
Read reviews and browse the full selection of sale wines by searching for “November 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.
