In Today’s Newsletter:
New Arrivals from Cayuse and Horsepower
Staff Pick: Two Tuscan Treats
Don’t Forget Our Subscriber Special
On German and Austrian Magnums
Rose of the Day!
Staff Pick / Return of a Favorite
Trending Wines
Gerard Boulay: Master of Sancerre
Collector’s Corner
The Best Ever from La Spinetta, Piedmont Icon
New Arrivals from Cayuse and Horsepower
Christophe Baron is not only a great friend of the shop; he also makes some of the most in-demand wines in North America. As a result, most of his yearly production is sold exclusively through his mailing list. We always feel fortunate to receive the limited allocations that we do. As Christophe approaches a quarter century making wine in Walla Walla Valley, his restless nature has spawned a number of different projects, each with their own ambition. However, none better represents Christophe’s ultimate vision than Horsepower.
The Horsepower wines all come from estate vineyards which are farmed biodynamically using, you guessed it, horses. Planted at extremely high density, some are even grown on stakes rather than wires, as a throwback to the original farming techniques of the Rhone. Like the “Hors Catagorie” wine that Christophe makes on his own—no expenses are spared in making these wines and the yields from the dramatic vineyards are extremely low.
The wines are always special, widely considered to be amongst the nation’s best, but the 2016 and 2017 vintages are true standouts. Both vintages were outstanding in Walla Walla, and seem poised to yield top-end wines that will be talked about, and enjoyed, for decades. So make room in your cellar, and act soon before the limited numbers of bottles we have left vanish.
In Stock Now:
Horsepower Vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98+ points “The 2016 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard is a more meaty, savory effort that just jumps out of the glass with its ground black pepper, peat moss, cured meat, and smoky red and black raspberry fruits. Meaty, rich, concentrated, medium to full-bodied, with a tight, backward vibe, hide this in the cellar for 3-5 years and it will have two decades of longevity.”
Wine Enthusiast 98 points “CELLAR SELECTION. The outrageously expressive aromas include notes of peat, firepit, black and green olive, potpourri, black pepper, crushed rock, funk, ham hock, fresh flower and tobacco. The savory flavors are palate shaking in their intensity, but still sleek and balanced, tapering toward an extremely long potpourri- and smoked meat-filled finish. It’s a complete stunner that assaults the senses. A knockout now, it should only get better with time. Best after 2025.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “From the first sniff, you know this is a special wine. The 2016 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard pops with a blackberry-scented nose and impressive, seductive Syrah tones reticent of the Northern Rhône, with a soft smokiness and mineral edge, warn leather and soft ashiness that lingers on with aromas of crushed violets. There are a noticeable stemmy and black pepper tones on the nose and palate that command my attention. This is a beautifully balanced expression that manages to focus on the elegant side of Syrah, without over-extracting, over-oaking or possessing screaming high alcohol, and the finish is long and contemplative with balanced tannins and structuring acidity—this will age beautifully for decades to come! There is a reason why Christophe Baron and crew are captivating the world’s attention when it comes to the Rhône varietals. Only 267 cases made.”
The Horsepower wines all come from estate vineyards which are farmed biodynamically using, you guessed it, horses. Planted at extremely high density, some are even grown on stakes rather than wires, as a throwback to the original farming techniques of the Rhone. Like the “Hors Catagorie” wine that Christophe makes on his own—no expenses are spared in making these wines and the yields from the dramatic vineyards are extremely low.
The wines are always special, widely considered to be amongst the nation’s best, but the 2016 and 2017 vintages are true standouts. Both vintages were outstanding in Walla Walla, and seem poised to yield top-end wines that will be talked about, and enjoyed, for decades. So make room in your cellar, and act soon before the limited numbers of bottles we have left vanish.
In Stock Now:
Horsepower Vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98+ points “The 2016 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard is a more meaty, savory effort that just jumps out of the glass with its ground black pepper, peat moss, cured meat, and smoky red and black raspberry fruits. Meaty, rich, concentrated, medium to full-bodied, with a tight, backward vibe, hide this in the cellar for 3-5 years and it will have two decades of longevity.”
Wine Enthusiast 98 points “CELLAR SELECTION. The outrageously expressive aromas include notes of peat, firepit, black and green olive, potpourri, black pepper, crushed rock, funk, ham hock, fresh flower and tobacco. The savory flavors are palate shaking in their intensity, but still sleek and balanced, tapering toward an extremely long potpourri- and smoked meat-filled finish. It’s a complete stunner that assaults the senses. A knockout now, it should only get better with time. Best after 2025.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “From the first sniff, you know this is a special wine. The 2016 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard pops with a blackberry-scented nose and impressive, seductive Syrah tones reticent of the Northern Rhône, with a soft smokiness and mineral edge, warn leather and soft ashiness that lingers on with aromas of crushed violets. There are a noticeable stemmy and black pepper tones on the nose and palate that command my attention. This is a beautifully balanced expression that manages to focus on the elegant side of Syrah, without over-extracting, over-oaking or possessing screaming high alcohol, and the finish is long and contemplative with balanced tannins and structuring acidity—this will age beautifully for decades to come! There is a reason why Christophe Baron and crew are captivating the world’s attention when it comes to the Rhône varietals. Only 267 cases made.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $185
The average price is $185
Horsepower Vineyards ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “From a vineyard planted in 2013, the 2016 Syrah High Contrast saw loads of stems and mostly neutral barrels. This thrilling wine has a Chave Hermitage-like purity and class as well as gorgeous notes of cassis, black raspberries, smoked earth, and graphite. It’s deep, pure and layered, incredibly layered, pure, and long, with a finish that won’t quit. This isn’t for those looking for an inky, massive wine, but it’s pure class, complete, amazingly long, and elegant. Give bottles a few years in the cellar and it’s going to shine for 15-20 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $178
The average price is $178
Horsepower Vineyards ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($219.95) $169 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95+ points “The 2017 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard is more wound up and tight, with backward notes of chocolaty black fruits, toasted spice, mulled plums, cured ham, and sweet mulch all developing with time in the glass. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with plenty of tannins, this is one 2017 that’s going to reward bottle age. Do your best to hide bottles for 4-5 years if possible, and it should see its 20th birthday in fine form. This is certainly for those who like a big dose of funk in their Syrah!”
Jeb Dunnuck 95+ points “The 2017 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard is more wound up and tight, with backward notes of chocolaty black fruits, toasted spice, mulled plums, cured ham, and sweet mulch all developing with time in the glass. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with plenty of tannins, this is one 2017 that’s going to reward bottle age. Do your best to hide bottles for 4-5 years if possible, and it should see its 20th birthday in fine form. This is certainly for those who like a big dose of funk in their Syrah!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $185
The next best price is $185
Horsepower Vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Grenache, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($199.95) $179 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 97 points “Power and elegance. The 2017 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard bangs with bright red fruit character with fantastic clarity and a pure sense of underlying terroir at its core. Intoxicating floral aromas of Sakura, crushed rose petals and hints of lavender flood the senses first, followed by layers of wild strawberries, bright cherry skin and crushed raspberries in the glass. It is medium-bodied on the palate, with delicate savory and spice tones that fade in and out between the seductive red fruit and floral notes, giving way to an impeccably balanced structure with energetic acidity and a robust shine and gleam to the fruit. An instant success, the palate is full of flavor and mouth-watering juiciness without being overripe. Immensely pleasureful, the wine delivers an elongated yet compact finish that continues to evolve and unpack in the mouth with persistence. Hands-down, it’s a winner! 301 cases produced.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “Starting with the 2017 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard, this beauty is the spitting image of a great vintage of Rayas and offers a complex bouquet of black raspberries, white pepper, spring flowers, and sappy herbs. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied, ethereal Grenache that has a light, graceful texture, silky tannins, and a great finish. It shows the more elegant, almost Pinot Noir-like style of Grenache on the palate and is flawlessly balanced. Just a singular, remarkable wine, drink it any time over the coming 15 years or more.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $192.85
The next best price is $192.85
Horsepower Vineyards ‘The Tribe Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $125 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The 2016 Syrah The Tribe is largely in the same mold with a gamy, meaty, backward profile. Smoked meats, earthy dark fruits, ground pepper, and wood smoke are all present in this medium to full-bodied, concentrated Syrah that’s going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 15-20 years.”
Nick Stock 96 points “This has such impressive, silky black fruit with interwoven spices and subtle, meaty nuances. The intensity of fruit is dialed-up in this wine. There’s a very pure, bright fruit core here that pushes out of the mid-palate with a lot of energy and stony, graphite-like notes. This has a wealth of dark berries on offer. Such length and balance. Planted at 8,500 vines per hectare. Drink or hold. Best from 2022.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The 2016 Syrah The Tribe is largely in the same mold with a gamy, meaty, backward profile. Smoked meats, earthy dark fruits, ground pepper, and wood smoke are all present in this medium to full-bodied, concentrated Syrah that’s going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 15-20 years.”
Nick Stock 96 points “This has such impressive, silky black fruit with interwoven spices and subtle, meaty nuances. The intensity of fruit is dialed-up in this wine. There’s a very pure, bright fruit core here that pushes out of the mid-palate with a lot of energy and stony, graphite-like notes. This has a wealth of dark berries on offer. Such length and balance. Planted at 8,500 vines per hectare. Drink or hold. Best from 2022.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $148.96
The next best price is $148.96
Horsepower Vineyards ‘The Tribe Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($219.95) $169 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “Beautiful notes of red and black raspberries, tobacco, plum sauce, loamy earth, and loads of floral notes emerge from the 2017 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard, another tight, closed wine that’s going to benefit from bottle age. Medium to full-bodied, with notable freshness as well as plenty of underlying structure, it reminds me of Cote Rotie from the Cote Blonde lieu-dit with its incredible floral character as well as its seamless texture. Beautifully done and one of the standouts in the lineup in 2017, give bottles a healthy decant if drinking any time soon, and my money is on it benefiting from 2-3 years of bottle age and evolving for 15-20 years or more.”
Also Newly Arrived from Cayuse
Cayuse Vineyards Flying Pig, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Based on 50% Cabernet Franc, 39% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Flying Pig sports a deeper ruby/purple color as well as rocking levels of blackcurrant and black cherry fruits interwoven with notes of tobacco leaf, cedar pencil, damp earth, and spice. Bordeaux-like on both the nose and palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, has a great, rounded texture, and a clean finish. It’s beautiful example of this cuvée to drink any time over the coming 10-15 years.”
Cayuse Vineyards God Only Knows Armada Vineyard Grenache, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $125 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2016 God Only Knows saw a fair amount of stems (60-80%) and was brought up in neutral demi-muids and foudre. It’s incredibly complex, offering blackberry, smoked earth, Iberico ham, white pepper, spring flowers, and violets. It’s seamless, ultra-pure, medium-bodied, and just glides across the palate and has a Burgundian weight and richness. 535 cases.”
Wine Advocate 95+ points “Featuring a playful label, the 2016 Grenache God Only Knows Armada Vineyard is a blend of 90% Grenache, with the remaining 10% comprising unknown varieties. This has a seductive nose of cherry and wild strawberry, with a floral essence and rich minerality, tamed by soft red spices. There is a touch of black pepper here, suggesting a splash of Syrah in the blend. The wine is tight on the palate but gives pleasure on many different levels, as it has both breadth and depth. There is a focused core of rocky minerality to the wine as it lingers on the long, textured finish with good balance and structured tannins. This is impressive juice! Only 535 cases produced.-AM”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $153
The average price is $153
Cayuse Vineyards Impulsivo Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “While I don’t think the 2017 Impulsivo matches the 2016, it’s certainly not far off. Showing the more elegant style of the vintage, it offers a gorgeous perfume of smoked black cherries, redcurrants, green tobacco, bloody meat, sandalwood, and Asian spices that opens up with time in the glass. Ethereal, medium to full-bodied, and seamless on the palate, it has flawless balance, polished tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. It’s just beautifully put together and one of the more approachable vintages of this cuvée. It can be drunk with incredible pleasure today (give it an hour decant) or cellared for 15+ years or more.”
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($149.95) $125 special, 3 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “This red shows lots of smoked meat and spices, as well as dried-strawberry and raspberry character. Full-bodied, yet not overpowering, with creamy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Tightens at the end. Shows focus and intensity. Drink or hold.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “More tapenade, dried herbs, chocolate, sweet mulch, and sweet black fruits emerge from the 2017 Syrah En Chamberlin, a medium to full-bodied, ripe, powerful 2017. With building tannins, a plump, expansive mid-palate, plenty of classic Rocks funk, and a great finish, it doesn’t quite have the precision of the En Cerise yet is more sexy and opulent. It benefits from a decant if drinking any time soon and will evolve gracefully for 15 years.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “While I don’t think the 2017 Impulsivo matches the 2016, it’s certainly not far off. Showing the more elegant style of the vintage, it offers a gorgeous perfume of smoked black cherries, redcurrants, green tobacco, bloody meat, sandalwood, and Asian spices that opens up with time in the glass. Ethereal, medium to full-bodied, and seamless on the palate, it has flawless balance, polished tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. It’s just beautifully put together and one of the more approachable vintages of this cuvée. It can be drunk with incredible pleasure today (give it an hour decant) or cellared for 15+ years or more.”
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($149.95) $125 special, 3 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “This red shows lots of smoked meat and spices, as well as dried-strawberry and raspberry character. Full-bodied, yet not overpowering, with creamy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Tightens at the end. Shows focus and intensity. Drink or hold.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “More tapenade, dried herbs, chocolate, sweet mulch, and sweet black fruits emerge from the 2017 Syrah En Chamberlin, a medium to full-bodied, ripe, powerful 2017. With building tannins, a plump, expansive mid-palate, plenty of classic Rocks funk, and a great finish, it doesn’t quite have the precision of the En Cerise yet is more sexy and opulent. It benefits from a decant if drinking any time soon and will evolve gracefully for 15 years.”
Staff Pick
Two Tuscan Treats
Andy:
From Camigliano comes two very different bottles of wine. The 2015 Brunello is a full fledged classic that shows all of the tart herbed balsamic notes backed up by a very solid core of ripe cherry and graphite. The wine seems cut from another time, though the recent warm vintages have softened rough edges and added a little polish that took time to develop before. There are beautiful citrus peel aromas, and trailside scents of sage and thyme. The fruit is slightly more tart than others from the 15 vintage, but it is delightfully lively and fresh. The solid core can develop for years to come, but with a healthy decant you will not be disappointed. Again, this took days to consume and it was more delicious every day. Probably more for the cellar with a five year wait before revisiting, but if anybody is opening it up, I will gladly share a glass. The second wine is the Poderuccio IGT Super-Tuscan Cab-Merlot-Sangio blend that is simply ridiculous. For under $20, it might not be Montalcino proper, but you’ll love the way the Sangiovese notes play against the way the bright red fruits. It’s a guilty pleasure that will pair with anything from the grill all through fall.
In Stock Now:
Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 750ML ($49.95) $38 special
Case-6 Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Camigliano 2015 Brunello di Montalcino sees fruit from a 50-hectare vineyard planted 300 to 350 meters above sea level. The soils show lots of variation with clay, sand, rock and marine fossils. The wine’s bouquet reveals classic Brunello characteristics of wild berry, forest floor, pressed rose petal, crushed stone and spice. You also get those typical balsam and herbal tones that are so specific to Montalcino. In fact, I argue that they come across with even more intensity in a beautifully balanced and sunny vintage such as 2015. This wine ages in 60-hectoliter botti for 24 months, making for a firm yet surprisingly streamlined mouthfeel. With 160,000 bottles made, the wine was released in January 2020.”
James Suckling 94 points “A bright and elegant Brunello that suggests sliced oranges, tulips and rose petals. Medium-to full-bodied and finely structured, drawing on silky layers of tannins and a vibrant edge of acidity. Drink now or hold.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “A focused, lively red, this exhibits cherry, strawberry, earth, mineral and Mediterranean herb flavors. Dense, staying fresh as this unwinds on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2042.”
From Camigliano comes two very different bottles of wine. The 2015 Brunello is a full fledged classic that shows all of the tart herbed balsamic notes backed up by a very solid core of ripe cherry and graphite. The wine seems cut from another time, though the recent warm vintages have softened rough edges and added a little polish that took time to develop before. There are beautiful citrus peel aromas, and trailside scents of sage and thyme. The fruit is slightly more tart than others from the 15 vintage, but it is delightfully lively and fresh. The solid core can develop for years to come, but with a healthy decant you will not be disappointed. Again, this took days to consume and it was more delicious every day. Probably more for the cellar with a five year wait before revisiting, but if anybody is opening it up, I will gladly share a glass. The second wine is the Poderuccio IGT Super-Tuscan Cab-Merlot-Sangio blend that is simply ridiculous. For under $20, it might not be Montalcino proper, but you’ll love the way the Sangiovese notes play against the way the bright red fruits. It’s a guilty pleasure that will pair with anything from the grill all through fall.
In Stock Now:
Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 750ML ($49.95) $38 special
Case-6 Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Camigliano 2015 Brunello di Montalcino sees fruit from a 50-hectare vineyard planted 300 to 350 meters above sea level. The soils show lots of variation with clay, sand, rock and marine fossils. The wine’s bouquet reveals classic Brunello characteristics of wild berry, forest floor, pressed rose petal, crushed stone and spice. You also get those typical balsam and herbal tones that are so specific to Montalcino. In fact, I argue that they come across with even more intensity in a beautifully balanced and sunny vintage such as 2015. This wine ages in 60-hectoliter botti for 24 months, making for a firm yet surprisingly streamlined mouthfeel. With 160,000 bottles made, the wine was released in January 2020.”
James Suckling 94 points “A bright and elegant Brunello that suggests sliced oranges, tulips and rose petals. Medium-to full-bodied and finely structured, drawing on silky layers of tannins and a vibrant edge of acidity. Drink now or hold.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “A focused, lively red, this exhibits cherry, strawberry, earth, mineral and Mediterranean herb flavors. Dense, staying fresh as this unwinds on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2042.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Castello di Camigliano Poderuccio Toscana IGT 2018 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Castello di Camigliano Poderuccio Toscana IGT 2018 750ML ($249.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
James Suckling 90 points “Lots of blackberries and tar, together with black-olive character on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and structured. A little raw, but should come around nicely with bottle age. Drink from 2020.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Don’t Forget Our Subscriber Special
On German and Austrian Magnums!
Magnums of German and Austrian wines are objectively the best large formats out there. This is a fact, not open to dispute—we refuse to hear any counter-arguments.
Somehow need convincing? Consider the “pouring wingspan” of a German or Austrian mag. From a seated position, a host can easily pour into any glass at a dinner party of eight people—that extra three feet of bottle makes it happen. Unless you’re Mrs. Incredible, you’d have to walk around to pour a magnum of Burgundy, but with that 1.5L of Riesling, anything’s possible.
Furthermore, while it’s on the table, the tall, thin profile of these large formats offers a smaller visual impediment than a comparable bottle from Bordeaux or Burgundy. It’s easier to see around the German bottle, so you can maintain conversation with everyone at the table that much easier. You don’t want your dinner guests to feel like they’re in the obstructed-view seats, do you?
Finally, they’re filled with German and Austrian wines! These are some of the most delicious, joyous wines on the planet! Light, fresh and pairing with seemingly everything, there’s a bottle of German or Austrian wine for every palate and a magnum in stock at Vinopolis.
Magnum Subscriber Special
Buy 3-5 German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 5% Discount On Them
Buy 6+ German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 10% Discount On Them
Magnum Subscriber Special only valid on in-stock wines
Subscriber Special Discount Will Not Display Online
We Will Manually Adjust Your Order Before Finalizing It
Magnum Subscriber Special Discounts Valid Until Friday, August 21st at 10AM
In Stock Now:
F.X. Pichler M Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2013 1.5L ($219.95) $149 Displayed Price, That’s $141.55 at 5% off and $134.10 at 10% off!
Wine Advocate 94 points “Lucas Pichler’s monumental 2013 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd M opens with an ultra-ripe, concentrated and slightly speck-y yet still precise and even mineral-scented bouquet on the nose. Very rich and intense on the palate, this elegant, full-bodied, densely textured and powerful Veltliner from late-harvested grapes reveals an aromatic and juicy fruit core along with a stunningly vibrant acidity that gives structure, length and a lifting as well as lingering salinity and piquancy. Maracuya and other tropical fruit flavors dominate the aromatic aftertaste. Although I have no experience with matured samples of this Austrian icon Veltliner, I suspect it has an aging potential of 5-10 years and should be cellared at least for another 2 or 3 years.”
David Schildknecht–Vinous 93 points “Made with fruit from Loibenberg (a 50% share), Kellerberg, Liebenberg, with a small bit of Kollmütz, this installment of “M” enjoyed the longest pre-fermentation skin contact of any Pichler 2013, and was raised in a new large oval, then moved to tank shortly before bottling, which is when I last tasted it. Its impressive features include imposing richness of peach, melon and pineapple; an expansive and flatteringly creamy palate; high-toned inner-mouth allusions to almond extract; peach kernel piquancy; and pronounced smokiness and stoniness that suggest a mingling of Szechuan peppercorn, black tea and ash. The bright, Riesling-like juiciness characteristic of so many Grüner Veltliners from this vintage is absent here. But the finish of this static, statuesque wine (recall that “M,” after all, stands here for “monumental”) glows persistently in its evocation of peach kernel and pepper.”
Somehow need convincing? Consider the “pouring wingspan” of a German or Austrian mag. From a seated position, a host can easily pour into any glass at a dinner party of eight people—that extra three feet of bottle makes it happen. Unless you’re Mrs. Incredible, you’d have to walk around to pour a magnum of Burgundy, but with that 1.5L of Riesling, anything’s possible.
Furthermore, while it’s on the table, the tall, thin profile of these large formats offers a smaller visual impediment than a comparable bottle from Bordeaux or Burgundy. It’s easier to see around the German bottle, so you can maintain conversation with everyone at the table that much easier. You don’t want your dinner guests to feel like they’re in the obstructed-view seats, do you?
Finally, they’re filled with German and Austrian wines! These are some of the most delicious, joyous wines on the planet! Light, fresh and pairing with seemingly everything, there’s a bottle of German or Austrian wine for every palate and a magnum in stock at Vinopolis.
Magnum Subscriber Special
Buy 3-5 German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 5% Discount On Them
Buy 6+ German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 10% Discount On Them
Magnum Subscriber Special only valid on in-stock wines
Subscriber Special Discount Will Not Display Online
We Will Manually Adjust Your Order Before Finalizing It
Magnum Subscriber Special Discounts Valid Until Friday, August 21st at 10AM
In Stock Now:
F.X. Pichler M Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2013 1.5L ($219.95) $149 Displayed Price, That’s $141.55 at 5% off and $134.10 at 10% off!
Wine Advocate 94 points “Lucas Pichler’s monumental 2013 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd M opens with an ultra-ripe, concentrated and slightly speck-y yet still precise and even mineral-scented bouquet on the nose. Very rich and intense on the palate, this elegant, full-bodied, densely textured and powerful Veltliner from late-harvested grapes reveals an aromatic and juicy fruit core along with a stunningly vibrant acidity that gives structure, length and a lifting as well as lingering salinity and piquancy. Maracuya and other tropical fruit flavors dominate the aromatic aftertaste. Although I have no experience with matured samples of this Austrian icon Veltliner, I suspect it has an aging potential of 5-10 years and should be cellared at least for another 2 or 3 years.”
David Schildknecht–Vinous 93 points “Made with fruit from Loibenberg (a 50% share), Kellerberg, Liebenberg, with a small bit of Kollmütz, this installment of “M” enjoyed the longest pre-fermentation skin contact of any Pichler 2013, and was raised in a new large oval, then moved to tank shortly before bottling, which is when I last tasted it. Its impressive features include imposing richness of peach, melon and pineapple; an expansive and flatteringly creamy palate; high-toned inner-mouth allusions to almond extract; peach kernel piquancy; and pronounced smokiness and stoniness that suggest a mingling of Szechuan peppercorn, black tea and ash. The bright, Riesling-like juiciness characteristic of so many Grüner Veltliners from this vintage is absent here. But the finish of this static, statuesque wine (recall that “M,” after all, stands here for “monumental”) glows persistently in its evocation of peach kernel and pepper.”
This is the only listing for a magnum in the USA today!
Joh. Jos. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2016 1.5L ($119.95) $99 Displayed Price, That’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off!
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2016 Graacher Himmelreich Auslese (AP 09 17) shows very fine botrytis and orange tea character on the delicate and nicely concentrated nose. Very elegant, piquant and lush on the palate, with mineral expression, refreshment and persistent structure, this is a serious and complex Auslese of great class. Highly recommended.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Well-crafted, showing a bright and suave character, displaying ripe peach, mango and mineral nuances, this auslese sings harmoniously on the palate. Silky and full of energy, with a lingering aftertaste of lime and honey. Very delicious now, but will also age for years. Drink now through 2034.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2016 Graacher Himmelreich Auslese (AP 09 17) shows very fine botrytis and orange tea character on the delicate and nicely concentrated nose. Very elegant, piquant and lush on the palate, with mineral expression, refreshment and persistent structure, this is a serious and complex Auslese of great class. Highly recommended.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Well-crafted, showing a bright and suave character, displaying ripe peach, mango and mineral nuances, this auslese sings harmoniously on the palate. Silky and full of energy, with a lingering aftertaste of lime and honey. Very delicious now, but will also age for years. Drink now through 2034.”
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
Weingut Korrell Johanneshof Kreuznacher Paradies Riesling Trocken, Nahe 2017 1.5L ($99.95) $79 Displayed Price, That’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off!
Grapelive 94 points “The radiant and graceful Korrell Paradies Trocken leads with expressive pure apple tones. [It] impresses for its elegance and subtle character. It’s a wine of great poise and delicacy, especially admirable for such a young Riesling. The monopole estate vineyard, Paradies, is the oldest single site Korrell has and is the flagship wine from winemaker Martin Korrell. It comes from his family’s vines that are set on limestone and clay soils in Bad Kreuznach area of the Nahe region. The Paradies Riesling Trocken is a gorgeous white of depth and precise winemaking that takes advantage of this unique site in the Nahe. This wine is the heart and soul of Korrell and it is product of its unique climat,or terroir. It sees more sunshine and the limestone allows for serious concentration, while retaining acidity, though there is always great attention paid to pick dates to finely tune this signature bottling to place and vintage. Korrell mixes some traditional stainless fermentations with some native yeast and barrel ferments to craft his wines. The Paradies shows a beautiful leesy finesse that reminds me a bit of the Von Winning GG’s, with a long time on the lees adding a beautiful glycerin density to this gorgeous dry Riesling. Coming off Korrel’s incredible Riesling Cup win for his Von den Grossen Lagen (Grand Crus) Riesling Trocken, I was absolutely thrilled to be able to try this wine, and found this particular wine just as intriguing. Martin focuses on preserving heightened aromatics and crisp mineral tones, while allowing the mouth feel and depth to shine through. It is an amazing accomplishment to get it all right, and Korrell deserves his time in the limelight. This is complex and glorious stuff. Layers of green apple, peach, mixed fresh citrus and melon fruits are lifted by liquid rock, steely mineral and faint perfume of white flowers along with a silkiness of mouth feel. While still delightfully crisp, [this delivers] an exciting energy filled performance. This is a winery that about to break out and join some elite company, in fact they are riding high after winning, as mentioned, the famous Riesling Cup award with their unique multi (Grand) cru Von den Grossen Lagen Trocken Riesling. This wine is just extra proof there is real quality here! The lightly golden hued and generously textured Paradies will age well. It’s full of charm, class and potential. Best to let this one have another 3 to 5 years, though it certainly is delicious right now.”
Stuart Pigott 94 points “Very clean and fresh, but behind the effusive, fruit-salad character that makes this so seductive, there is a lot of structure and the finish keeps pumping out the fruit and chalky minerality. Drink or hold.”
This was the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Scharzhofberger Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2015 1.5L ($179.95) $149 Displayed Price, That’s $141.55 at 5% off and $134.10 at 10% off!
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “This Auslese harvested at 102° Oechsle is still marked by some residual notes from spontaneous fermentation at first. However, these quickly give way to exotic scents of mango and papaya as well as mint, candied grapefruit and pineapple. The wine proves juicy and creamy even if still on the sweet side on the palate at this early stage. However, the finish already hints at greatness to come as grapefruit zest brings freshness in the long finish of this superb Auslese from the Scharzhofberg.”
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “This Auslese harvested at 102° Oechsle is still marked by some residual notes from spontaneous fermentation at first. However, these quickly give way to exotic scents of mango and papaya as well as mint, candied grapefruit and pineapple. The wine proves juicy and creamy even if still on the sweet side on the palate at this early stage. However, the finish already hints at greatness to come as grapefruit zest brings freshness in the long finish of this superb Auslese from the Scharzhofberg.”
This was the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Magnum Subscriber Special
Buy 3-5 German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 5% Discount On Them
Buy 6+ German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 10% Discount On Them
Magnum Subscriber Special only valid on in-stock wines
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We Will Manually Adjust Your Order Before Finalizing It
Magnum Subscriber Special Discounts Valid Until Friday, August 21st at 10AM
Buy 3-5 German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 5% Discount On Them
Buy 6+ German and Austrian Magnums (Mix and Match), Receive a 10% Discount On Them
Magnum Subscriber Special only valid on in-stock wines
Subscriber Special Discount Will Not Display Online
We Will Manually Adjust Your Order Before Finalizing It
Magnum Subscriber Special Discounts Valid Until Friday, August 21st at 10AM
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you,
please let us know their name when placing your order.)
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503-223-6002
When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you,
please let us know their name when placing your order.)
www.vinopoliswineshop.com
info@vinopoliswineshop.com
503-223-6002
Rose of the Day!
Staff Pick / Return of a Favorite
Andy:
Tom Bove (the owner of La Mascaronne) has a track record in Provence that’s trending well. As a retiree in 1993, he rejuvenated a 1,000 acre property with an old 74 acre vineyard in Provence and sold it to a familiar pair of Americans: Brad Pitt and Angelia Jolie (you may have heard of the Miraval wines). The secret is he kept the best vineyards from that land for himself; terroir that is pure Provence: rich with chalk and clay hills and the unbeatable Mediterranean climate. He’s now making wine that well surpasses the better known property in quality.
The wine not to miss is the stunning Quat’ Saisons rosé. This is quintessential Provence wine, which will have you wondering two things: who will bring you a bowl of good olives and why did you not buy more? It fills your nose with scents of wet stones, fresh citrus peel, and a whiff of red berries. The first taste resets your palate so that the aromas are instantly more pronounced, and the second taste confirms the brightness and firmness. It’s not a candy store rosé; it’s much more serious, and yet it still drinks so easily you’ll catch yourself quaffing it without thought. We regularly put it in the hands of customers who walk through the door who ask, “what is the best rosé you’ve had this year?” They all come back for more.
Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose 2019 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Ultra pale and coppery-hued, La Mascaronne’s certified-organic 2019 Cotes de Provence Rose Quat’Saisons is a blend of Cinsault and Grenache. Like previous vintages, it starts with notes of crushed stone and citrus, then adds the merest hints of red fruit. It’s medium-bodied but focused and streamlined, coming to an elongated, mouthwatering, complex finish that adds peach, melon and anise to the mix.”
Tom Bove (the owner of La Mascaronne) has a track record in Provence that’s trending well. As a retiree in 1993, he rejuvenated a 1,000 acre property with an old 74 acre vineyard in Provence and sold it to a familiar pair of Americans: Brad Pitt and Angelia Jolie (you may have heard of the Miraval wines). The secret is he kept the best vineyards from that land for himself; terroir that is pure Provence: rich with chalk and clay hills and the unbeatable Mediterranean climate. He’s now making wine that well surpasses the better known property in quality.
The wine not to miss is the stunning Quat’ Saisons rosé. This is quintessential Provence wine, which will have you wondering two things: who will bring you a bowl of good olives and why did you not buy more? It fills your nose with scents of wet stones, fresh citrus peel, and a whiff of red berries. The first taste resets your palate so that the aromas are instantly more pronounced, and the second taste confirms the brightness and firmness. It’s not a candy store rosé; it’s much more serious, and yet it still drinks so easily you’ll catch yourself quaffing it without thought. We regularly put it in the hands of customers who walk through the door who ask, “what is the best rosé you’ve had this year?” They all come back for more.
Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose 2019 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Ultra pale and coppery-hued, La Mascaronne’s certified-organic 2019 Cotes de Provence Rose Quat’Saisons is a blend of Cinsault and Grenache. Like previous vintages, it starts with notes of crushed stone and citrus, then adds the merest hints of red fruit. It’s medium-bodied but focused and streamlined, coming to an elongated, mouthwatering, complex finish that adds peach, melon and anise to the mix.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Trending Wines
Day describes their Momtazi bottling as their “our flagship Pinot Noir from one of Willamette Valley’s most prized biodynamic vineyards and our most age-worthy wine.” It‘s normally the most expensive Pinot in the Day Wines lineup at $54, but we’re able to offer it for just $33 per bottle and $28.75 per bottle on case purchases.
Day Wines Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2016 750ML ($53.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Day Wines Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2016 750ML ($299.95) $189 special (that’s only $31.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Day Wines Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2016 750ML ($599.95) $345 special (that’s only $28.75/bottle!)
John Gilman 93 points “The 2016 Momtazi Vineyard bottling of Pinot Noir from Day Wines is the ripest of these 2016s, as it comes in at fourteen percent octane. It is beautifully black fruity on the nose (as all the examples from Momtazi have been that I have been fortunate enough to taste), offering up scents of black plum, sweet dark berry, black tea, balsam bough, a beautiful base of soil tones, chicory, gentle spice tones and a bit of cedar. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, complex and beautifully balanced, with a fine core of fruit, great mineral drive and grip, ripe, well-integrated tannins and a long, tangy and promising finish. While this is the ripest of the 2016 pinots from Brianne Day, it is no less pure or precise and is a great bottle in the making. 2024-2055.”
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 92 points “Limpid red. A highly aromatic bouquet evokes fresh dark berries and baking spices, along with smoky mineral and musky earth overtones. Juicy and broad on the palate, offering alluringly sweet black raspberry, cherry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen steadily with air. Delivers a suave blend of power and energy and finishes with finely woven tannins and strong, floral-driven persistence.”
Day Wines Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2016 750ML ($53.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Day Wines Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2016 750ML ($299.95) $189 special (that’s only $31.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Day Wines Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2016 750ML ($599.95) $345 special (that’s only $28.75/bottle!)
John Gilman 93 points “The 2016 Momtazi Vineyard bottling of Pinot Noir from Day Wines is the ripest of these 2016s, as it comes in at fourteen percent octane. It is beautifully black fruity on the nose (as all the examples from Momtazi have been that I have been fortunate enough to taste), offering up scents of black plum, sweet dark berry, black tea, balsam bough, a beautiful base of soil tones, chicory, gentle spice tones and a bit of cedar. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, complex and beautifully balanced, with a fine core of fruit, great mineral drive and grip, ripe, well-integrated tannins and a long, tangy and promising finish. While this is the ripest of the 2016 pinots from Brianne Day, it is no less pure or precise and is a great bottle in the making. 2024-2055.”
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 92 points “Limpid red. A highly aromatic bouquet evokes fresh dark berries and baking spices, along with smoky mineral and musky earth overtones. Juicy and broad on the palate, offering alluringly sweet black raspberry, cherry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen steadily with air. Delivers a suave blend of power and energy and finishes with finely woven tannins and strong, floral-driven persistence.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $49.50
The next best price is $49.50
Delas is a signature producer in a region with no shortage of legendary names. The St Joseph Francois de Tournon proves that world-class Northern Rhone wines don’t have to break the bank. Well, at least at our pricing…
Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2016 750ML ($44.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2016 750ML ($279.95) $179 special (that’s only $29.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2016 Saint Joseph François De Tournon comes from more schist and gneiss soils and spent 10-14 months in mostly used barrels, with a small part in tank to preserve more freshness. It’s another ruby/purple-colored effort from this estate and gives up lots of blackberry and blueberry fruits intermixed with earthy minerality, ground pepper, and hints of damp earth. Rich, layered, and textured, it will be better in a year or two and keep for 8-10, if not longer.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Features a solid core of dark currant and blackberry fruit, inlaid with notes of tar, anise and warm tobacco leaf. Reveals a tug of iron through the fruit-laden finish. Best from 2020 through 2026. 1,033 cases made, 123 cases imported. — JM”
James Suckling 92-93 points “This has fragrant and floral character with wild raspberries and red plums. The peppery palate has a vibrant array of ripe, red and purple fruit. Good depth and drive here. Barrel sample.”
Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2016 750ML ($44.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2016 750ML ($279.95) $179 special (that’s only $29.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2016 Saint Joseph François De Tournon comes from more schist and gneiss soils and spent 10-14 months in mostly used barrels, with a small part in tank to preserve more freshness. It’s another ruby/purple-colored effort from this estate and gives up lots of blackberry and blueberry fruits intermixed with earthy minerality, ground pepper, and hints of damp earth. Rich, layered, and textured, it will be better in a year or two and keep for 8-10, if not longer.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Features a solid core of dark currant and blackberry fruit, inlaid with notes of tar, anise and warm tobacco leaf. Reveals a tug of iron through the fruit-laden finish. Best from 2020 through 2026. 1,033 cases made, 123 cases imported. — JM”
James Suckling 92-93 points “This has fragrant and floral character with wild raspberries and red plums. The peppery palate has a vibrant array of ripe, red and purple fruit. Good depth and drive here. Barrel sample.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $37.99
The average price is $42
The next best price is $37.99
The average price is $42
Wine Spectator’s Highest-ever scoring, under-$15 California Sauvignon Blanc
Joel Gott Wines Sauvignon Blanc, California 2019 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Case-12 Joel Gott Wines Sauvignon Blanc, California 2019 750ML ($179.95) $149 special (that’s only $12.42/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 92 points “The lemon blossom, Asian pear, lime sherbet and candied orange peel notes are pure, fragrant, silky smooth and juicy, with intensity and a lift of freshness on the finish from a lemon verbena accent. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 98,000 cases made.”
A dynamite Sangiovese for all the Brunello lovers out there!
Petrolo Boggina C Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
James Suckling 96 points “This is so focused and precise with fantastic depth and beauty. A pure definition of sangiovese. Full-bodied, tight and refined. Yet, full of strength and length. Succulent, too. A single-vineyard wine with soul. Better in 2022.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2016 Val d’Arno di Sopra Bòggina C is a pure expression of Sangiovese from vines planted in 1952. Give the wine a little time to open in the glass; once it does, it offers a beautiful display of forest fruit, spice, leather and earthy tones. Unlike the Bòggina A that is aged in amphorae, the Bòggina C is fermented in concrete vats using ambient yeasts. It sees extended maceration times and is aged in French 40-hectoliter casks and tonneaux. Some 11,000 bottles were made. This single-vineyard expression of Sangiovese reveals impeccable balance and elegance.-ML”
Joel Gott Wines Sauvignon Blanc, California 2019 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Case-12 Joel Gott Wines Sauvignon Blanc, California 2019 750ML ($179.95) $149 special (that’s only $12.42/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 92 points “The lemon blossom, Asian pear, lime sherbet and candied orange peel notes are pure, fragrant, silky smooth and juicy, with intensity and a lift of freshness on the finish from a lemon verbena accent. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 98,000 cases made.”
A dynamite Sangiovese for all the Brunello lovers out there!
Petrolo Boggina C Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
James Suckling 96 points “This is so focused and precise with fantastic depth and beauty. A pure definition of sangiovese. Full-bodied, tight and refined. Yet, full of strength and length. Succulent, too. A single-vineyard wine with soul. Better in 2022.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2016 Val d’Arno di Sopra Bòggina C is a pure expression of Sangiovese from vines planted in 1952. Give the wine a little time to open in the glass; once it does, it offers a beautiful display of forest fruit, spice, leather and earthy tones. Unlike the Bòggina A that is aged in amphorae, the Bòggina C is fermented in concrete vats using ambient yeasts. It sees extended maceration times and is aged in French 40-hectoliter casks and tonneaux. Some 11,000 bottles were made. This single-vineyard expression of Sangiovese reveals impeccable balance and elegance.-ML”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
2015 produced a number of top value Bordeaux and this is one of our favorites.
Chateau Marjosse, Bordeaux 2015 750ML ($19.95) $17 special
Case-12 Chateau Marjosse, Bordeaux 2015 750ML ($239.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
James Suckling 91 points “Aromas of spices, currants and milk chocolate with fresh-basil undertones. Full-bodied, layered and rich with lots of fruit and character on the finish. Tannins are velvety and dusty in texture. Excellent for this chateau. Needs two or three years to soften. Try in 2020.”
Antonio Galloni “Pierre Lurton’s 2015 Marjosse is a big, bold wine packed with black cherry, tobacco, chocolate, smoke, leather and licorice. This dark, brooding wine should drink nicely upon release. There is plenty going on.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate “The medium garnet-purple colored 2015 Marjosse has a nose of crushed black raspberries and red plums with touches of blackberries and damp soil. Medium to full-bodied, it has good expression and a chewy frame with nice balance and plenty of fruit.”
Chateau Marjosse, Bordeaux 2015 750ML ($19.95) $17 special
Case-12 Chateau Marjosse, Bordeaux 2015 750ML ($239.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
James Suckling 91 points “Aromas of spices, currants and milk chocolate with fresh-basil undertones. Full-bodied, layered and rich with lots of fruit and character on the finish. Tannins are velvety and dusty in texture. Excellent for this chateau. Needs two or three years to soften. Try in 2020.”
Antonio Galloni “Pierre Lurton’s 2015 Marjosse is a big, bold wine packed with black cherry, tobacco, chocolate, smoke, leather and licorice. This dark, brooding wine should drink nicely upon release. There is plenty going on.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate “The medium garnet-purple colored 2015 Marjosse has a nose of crushed black raspberries and red plums with touches of blackberries and damp soil. Medium to full-bodied, it has good expression and a chewy frame with nice balance and plenty of fruit.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Gerard Boulay: Master of Sancerre
“Given the crystalline purity of his Sauvignon Blancs, he has become one of my favorite producers of the central Loire. If you want to know what true Sancerre tastes like, try one of his single-vineyard bottlings. It does not come any better!” – Joel Payne, Vinous
Gerard Boulay makes some of the best white wines in France from his vineyards in Chavignol. Chavignol is the true beating heart of Sancerre and the host of all the best names in the region (Vatan, the Cotats, Boulay, etc.) and Boulay owns some of best located sites in some of the best vineyards in the town. From his parcel in La Grande Cote to Monts Damnes to the famed Clos Beaujeu, all of his wines ring with terroir and the unique minerality that’s inherent to Chavignol.
For the prices that Boulay charges, these are some of the most electric and profound whites in all of France. While low-tier Sancerre always seems overpriced, the top producers in the region make extraordinary wines that seem to be completely undervalued (with the obvious exception of Vatan). 2018 was a fantastic year in the Loire and Boulay made some of his best bottles in his career.
Newly Arrived from Gerard Boulay:
Gerard Boulay Sancerre Chavignol, Loire 2019 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 25 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Blend of young vine parcels on kimmeridgian slopes in the village of Chavignol.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $35
The average price nationally is $35
Gerard Boulay Sancerre La Cote, Loire 2018 750ML ($74.95) $56.50 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Boulay’s parcel in “La Grande Côte,” which is partially owned and partically rented, is one of three designated Crus of Chavignol and is reputed for producing wines of incredible precision. Vintage 2010 was the inaugural release. Overall, Gerard Boulay’s “terre blanche” vineyards produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire, with a delineation and minerality often reminiscent of a top Chablis. Boulay is certainly among the top examples of the appellation, including Boulay’s neighbors (Cotat Bros., Vatan). These are gorgeous, highly complex wines that are a clear step above “regular” Sancerre, and can age easily for 10-20 years or more. In fact, we have had them all the way back to the 1959 which was magnificent! They confirm Boulay’s place in the top ranks of Loire Valley vignerons. (referred to by the Cotat brothers as La Grande Cote)”
Importer Note “Boulay’s parcel in “La Grande Côte,” which is partially owned and partically rented, is one of three designated Crus of Chavignol and is reputed for producing wines of incredible precision. Vintage 2010 was the inaugural release. Overall, Gerard Boulay’s “terre blanche” vineyards produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire, with a delineation and minerality often reminiscent of a top Chablis. Boulay is certainly among the top examples of the appellation, including Boulay’s neighbors (Cotat Bros., Vatan). These are gorgeous, highly complex wines that are a clear step above “regular” Sancerre, and can age easily for 10-20 years or more. In fact, we have had them all the way back to the 1959 which was magnificent! They confirm Boulay’s place in the top ranks of Loire Valley vignerons. (referred to by the Cotat brothers as La Grande Cote)”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre Clos de Beaujeu, Loire 2018 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “One of Chavignol’s most historic vineyards, Boulay’s parcel lies within the original Clos of the vineyard, established by the monks of Beaujeu in the Middle Ages. The walls of the Clos are no longer standing as they were originally built from clay and hay, and did not withstand the test of time. Boulay farms a 0.75 hectares plot of 30- to 60-year old vins where the soils are pebbly, lime-rich and strewn with fossils. Along with the 60% gradient for much of the vineyard, the rocky soils make this parcel very difficult to farm. Clos de Beaujeu is the source of some of Boulay’s deepest, most structured wines and savory, spicy examples of Chavignol that are built to last.”
Importer Note “One of Chavignol’s most historic vineyards, Boulay’s parcel lies within the original Clos of the vineyard, established by the monks of Beaujeu in the Middle Ages. The walls of the Clos are no longer standing as they were originally built from clay and hay, and did not withstand the test of time. Boulay farms a 0.75 hectares plot of 30- to 60-year old vins where the soils are pebbly, lime-rich and strewn with fossils. Along with the 60% gradient for much of the vineyard, the rocky soils make this parcel very difficult to farm. Clos de Beaujeu is the source of some of Boulay’s deepest, most structured wines and savory, spicy examples of Chavignol that are built to last.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre Les Monts Damnes, Loire 2018 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Boulay began farming the steeply sloped Mont Damnés vineyard in 1982. His plot has an average vine age of 45 years. Mont Damnés’ reflective soils and south-facing exposition make it one of Chavignol’s warmest sites. Overall, Gerard Boulay’s “terre blanche” vineyards produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire, with a delineation and minerality often reminiscent of a top Chablis. Boulay is certainly among the top examples of the appellation, including Boulay’s neighbors (Cotat Bros., Vatan). These are gorgeous, highly complex wines that are a clear step above “regular” Sancerre, and can age easily for 10-20 years or more. In fact, we have had them all the way back to the 1959 which was magnificent! They confirm Boulay’s place in the top ranks of Loire Valley vignerons.”
Importer Note “Boulay began farming the steeply sloped Mont Damnés vineyard in 1982. His plot has an average vine age of 45 years. Mont Damnés’ reflective soils and south-facing exposition make it one of Chavignol’s warmest sites. Overall, Gerard Boulay’s “terre blanche” vineyards produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire, with a delineation and minerality often reminiscent of a top Chablis. Boulay is certainly among the top examples of the appellation, including Boulay’s neighbors (Cotat Bros., Vatan). These are gorgeous, highly complex wines that are a clear step above “regular” Sancerre, and can age easily for 10-20 years or more. In fact, we have had them all the way back to the 1959 which was magnificent! They confirm Boulay’s place in the top ranks of Loire Valley vignerons.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Collector’s Corner
The Best Ever from La Spinetta, Piedmont Icon
The Best Ever from La Spinetta, Piedmont Icon
“These are some of the very best wines I have ever tasted from La Spinetta. Proprietor Giorgio Rivetti and longtime winemaker Stephano Mazzetta have turned out a superb set of wines. The 2015 Barbarescos are racy and intense – as they always are – but the wines are also increasingly translucent and finessed.” – Antonio Galloni
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
La Spinetta Vigneto Gallina, Barbaresco DOCG 2015 750ML ($139.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Vigneto Gallina is absolutely gorgeous. Vivid and nuanced on the palate, the 2015 is fresh, juicy and flat-out delicious. The Gallina is often a shy wine that needs time in bottle to truly blossom, but the 2015 seems to have skipped that initial phase of reticence. In two separate tastings, the 2015 has been incredibly sensual and polished. Historically, the Gallina has the most consistent track record in aging of the three top Barbarescos in the range. It will be interesting to see if that is the case here as well. For now, the 2015 Gallina is one of the finest wines I have ever tasted from La Spinetta.”
James Suckling 95 points “This is a big and juicy Barbaresco with soft and velvety tannins and a full body. Lots of dried flowers and fruit at the finish. Needs four or five years of bottle age. Try in 2022.”
La Spinetta Vigneto Starderi, Barbaresco DOCG 2015 750ML ($139.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Vigneto Starderi rounds out this series of Barbarescos from La Spinetta in grand style. I don’t think the Starderi has ever been so elegant or refined as it is in 2015. Medium in body and translucent, the 2015 possesses remarkable purity and nuance in its red-toned fruit and floral aromatics. The oak needs time to fully integrate, but readers should not be planning on opening bottles anytime soon, as the youthful tannins are also imposing. Bright citrus and floral notes add the closing flourishes.”
James Suckling 94 points “This is decadent and very rich with plum and caramel character, as well as fresh flowers. Medium-bodied, tight and focused with a pretty center palate of dark fruit and linear, chewy tannins. Drink in 2020.”
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La Spinetta Vigneto Gallina, Barbaresco DOCG 2015 750ML ($139.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Vigneto Gallina is absolutely gorgeous. Vivid and nuanced on the palate, the 2015 is fresh, juicy and flat-out delicious. The Gallina is often a shy wine that needs time in bottle to truly blossom, but the 2015 seems to have skipped that initial phase of reticence. In two separate tastings, the 2015 has been incredibly sensual and polished. Historically, the Gallina has the most consistent track record in aging of the three top Barbarescos in the range. It will be interesting to see if that is the case here as well. For now, the 2015 Gallina is one of the finest wines I have ever tasted from La Spinetta.”
James Suckling 95 points “This is a big and juicy Barbaresco with soft and velvety tannins and a full body. Lots of dried flowers and fruit at the finish. Needs four or five years of bottle age. Try in 2022.”
La Spinetta Vigneto Starderi, Barbaresco DOCG 2015 750ML ($139.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Vigneto Starderi rounds out this series of Barbarescos from La Spinetta in grand style. I don’t think the Starderi has ever been so elegant or refined as it is in 2015. Medium in body and translucent, the 2015 possesses remarkable purity and nuance in its red-toned fruit and floral aromatics. The oak needs time to fully integrate, but readers should not be planning on opening bottles anytime soon, as the youthful tannins are also imposing. Bright citrus and floral notes add the closing flourishes.”
James Suckling 94 points “This is decadent and very rich with plum and caramel character, as well as fresh flowers. Medium-bodied, tight and focused with a pretty center palate of dark fruit and linear, chewy tannins. Drink in 2020.”
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La Spinetta Vigneto Valeirano, Barbaresco DOCG 2015 750ML ($139.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Vigneto Valeirano is another striking wine from La Spinetta. Precise and finely cut, the 2015 shows the slightly austere personality that is typical of this cru. Even so, the 2015 possesses tremendous energy and intensity. Sweet spice, crushed flowers, crushed rocks, leather, spice, mint and sweet tobacco grace this exquisite, wonderfully nuanced Barbaresco. The 2015 finishes with real substance and gravitas, both of which bode well for its future in bottle. This may be the most finessed edition of Valeirano ever here.”
James Suckling 94 points “The roses and sandalwood character to these wines are impressive. Lots of ripe fruit too. Full-bodied, chewy and powerful. This needs two or three years to soften. Better in 2021.”
La Spinetta Vigneto Campe, Barolo 2015 750ML ($159.95) $119 special
James Suckling 97 points “Very distinctive nose with violets and very pure blackcurrants and blueberries, as well as leafy nuances, all of which deliver a fresh impression. The palate has impressive depth and density and the cool, blue fruit at the center sits fresh and vibrant. Smoothly resolved tannins shape a distinguished, balanced and long palate. Drink or hold.”
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Vigneto Valeirano is another striking wine from La Spinetta. Precise and finely cut, the 2015 shows the slightly austere personality that is typical of this cru. Even so, the 2015 possesses tremendous energy and intensity. Sweet spice, crushed flowers, crushed rocks, leather, spice, mint and sweet tobacco grace this exquisite, wonderfully nuanced Barbaresco. The 2015 finishes with real substance and gravitas, both of which bode well for its future in bottle. This may be the most finessed edition of Valeirano ever here.”
James Suckling 94 points “The roses and sandalwood character to these wines are impressive. Lots of ripe fruit too. Full-bodied, chewy and powerful. This needs two or three years to soften. Better in 2021.”
La Spinetta Vigneto Campe, Barolo 2015 750ML ($159.95) $119 special
James Suckling 97 points “Very distinctive nose with violets and very pure blackcurrants and blueberries, as well as leafy nuances, all of which deliver a fresh impression. The palate has impressive depth and density and the cool, blue fruit at the center sits fresh and vibrant. Smoothly resolved tannins shape a distinguished, balanced and long palate. Drink or hold.”
Vinopolis is an independent wine shop in Portland that opened in 2004. Our goal has always been to offer the finest, broadest, and largest selection of wines at the best prices to our customers in Portland, in Oregon, across the West Coast, and throughout the United States. Thank you for reading and for continuing to support our team.
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.