In Today’s Newsletter:
New Reviews for Saint Cosme
from Jeb Dunnuck
Classical St. Emilion
From Chateau Grandchamp
Trending
New Wine Spectator Insider Reviews
New Grapelive Review:
2015 Giovanni Rosso
Weingut Falkenstein
Collector’s Corner:
Hudelot Noellat Sale
New Reviews from Jeb Dunnuck for Saint Cosme
Saint Cosme is one of the notable estates of the Southern Rhone. Louis Barroul is a talented winemaker and is the 14th generation of his family to make wines in the domaine that was founded in the 1500’s. The wines he makes are rich and powerful, with undeniable terroir signatures. The 2018’s are some of the best wines they’ve yet made. “Always one of my favorite tasting in the Rhône is with Château de Saint Cosme’s Louis Barruol and this feisty, talented, and passionate vigneron makes some of the best wines in France. The estate is located just outside the village of Gigondas and the lineup has been simplified today to include a classic Gigondas and three single vineyards. The wines are all made in the same fashion, with no destemming and aging in just about 100% used barrels, so what you get is a clean expression of each of the vineyards. Looking at the 2018s, these are undoubtedly more plush, soft, charming wines, yet they are still going to benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and should evolve beautifully. The 2019s look to be on another level, and my money is on this being another truly special vintage from this estate. These are gorgeous wines around the board, and I certainly have plenty in my personal cellar.” –Jeb Dunnuck
Newly Reviewed Chateau de Saint Cosme Wines In Stock Now:
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides, Rhone 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “One of the wines of the vintage, 2018 Gigondas Hominis Fides comes from a single parcel of old vines planted in more limestone/sandy soils not far from the estate (it’s just across the street from the Le Claux lieu-dit). This dense purple/ruby hued beauty boasts a sensational bouquet of ripe black raspberries, mulled cherries, black licorice, loamy soil, and a kiss of camphor, as well as plenty of peppery herb-like nuances. With full-bodied richness, it hits the palate with a seamless, elegant texture, no hard edges, building tannins and one seriously good finish. It’s not a powerhouse like the 2007 or 2016, yet has incredible finesse as well as purity of fruit and length. It benefits from a quick decant and is guaranteed to put a smile on your face any time over the coming 15+ years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $127
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Poste, Rhone 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “Another sensational wine, the 2018 Gigondas Le Poste comes from a hillside parcel just up from the domaine, just to the east of the village of Gigondas. Deep ruby/purple-hued with killer notes of blackcurrants, ground pepper, violets, tobacco leaf, and obvious minerality, it’s full-bodied, has a fleshy, layered, opulent texture, building tannins, and a great, great finish. It shows the more approachable style of the vintage yet still bring incredible richness and depth. It will blow you away anytime over the coming 10-15 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $131
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux, Rhone 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Coming from a site just across the road from the Hominis Fides vineyard, the 2018 Gigondas Le Claux was not destemmed and brought up mostly in used, larger barrels. Beautifully Provençal notes of black raspberries, camphor, flowery incense, and peppery spice and emerge from the glass and this beauty is reminds me of a Grand Cru Red Burgundy on the palate with its seamless, elegant, layered texture. It’s not a blockbuster like the 2016 and 2017 yet shines for its complex aromatics and flawless balance. It also has more than enough structure to evolve for two decades.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $133
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 750ML (44.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles in stock nowCase-6 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 750ML ($269.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special, 24 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Moving to the wines from bottle, the base Gigondas from this estate is a perennial winner and readers can safely buy bottles of this in just about every vintage. Giving up a Provençal bouquet of red and black currants, peppery herbs, leather, and loamy soil, the 2018 is medium to full-bodied, has a forward, sexy style, no hard edges, and a great finish. It’s terrific today yet still has enough tannins to evolve for 10-15 years if you’re so inclined.”
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
The average price is $52 for the 750ml
We offer 30 wines in stock now from Saint Cosme.
Shop our full selection on our web store!
Classical St. Emilion
From Chateau Grandchamp
We’re suckers for classically made Bordeaux at reasonable prices—a combination that seems to be harder and harder to find. Gonzague Maurice makes a set of wines under the Chateau Grandchamp and Clos du Pavillon labels that more than fit the bill. These wines are the essence of right-bank Bordeaux—Merlot and Cabernet Franc with limited makeup.Vinification is in stainless steel and most of the elevage is in concrete (25-33% of the wine sees aging in older barrels), so these wines have a purity and vitality that’s uncommon in Bordeaux these days. Chateau Grandchamp is made from an estate vineyard, farmed organically and worked/harvested by hand—a true rarity in the “satellite” regions of Bordeaux. The Clos du Pavillon wines we’re offering are negociant, but Maurice only works with growers who own unique terroirs and farm in accordance with his philosophies. These are delightful wines with plenty of old-school personality.
All three of these wines are exceptional values, with the two higher end bottlings offering a great balance between drink now comfort and the ability to age effortlessly for a decade. These are excellent wines and we’d urge you to stock up across the board.
In Stock Now:
Drinkable, delicious Bordeaux for under $20.
Chateau de Grandchamp, Montagne-Saint-Emilion 2015 750ML ($24.95) $19.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Le Guide Hachette Des Vins 2/3 stars (Vin Remarquable) “A mountain that exalts the qualities of the 2015 vintage and participated in the final of the favorites. From a blend of hand-harvested Merlot (90%) and Cabernet Franc, Château Grandchamp’s team has extracted a wine that combines power and elegance. The color of the dress is purple with violet, the nose is centered on dark fruits with spicy aromas, the palate is frisky, smooth, fruity, with fine, firm tannins and a long finish. [translated]”
Importer notes “Château de Grandchamp is the only domaine on the hillside overlooking the ancient commune of Parsac, located in the Montagne-Saint-Emilion appellation on the right bank of the Dordogne. Vigneron Gonzague Maurice manually farms Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon in densely planted vineyards rooted in clay-limestone soils with small traces of iron. The vineyard has been in organic conversion since 2010, however grass is sown regularly between vine rows and ploughing is done in alternating rows. Gonzague’s sole objective in the vineyard is to obtain perfectly ripe and clean fruit. Triage is done in both the vineyard and the cellar to ensure the highest quality grapes. In the cellar, grapes are vinified in small, temperature controlled tanks and then aged in a combination of tank and one to two year old barrels. Above all, he seeks to preserve the fruit throughout the fermentation and ageing processes. The resulting wine is aromatically vibrant and beautiful balanced with soft tannins.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Le Pavillon Dragon St George, St George – Saint-Emilion 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Le Pavillion “La Grange des Bardes” Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($37.95) $29 special, 9 bottles in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Trending
Hundred Acre ‘Wraith’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($599.95) Was $549, Now $469, 24 bottles in stock now
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 100 points “Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Wraith leaps from the glass with gregarious black and red cherries, mulberries, black currant cordial, red roses and lavender scents with layers of crushed rocks and earthy sparks. Faint earth and exotic spice nuances unfurl slowly, growing in intensity and depth. The palate is full-bodied and solidly structured with firm, very finely grained, super ripe tannins and bold freshness. Finishing exquisitely perfumed, jaw-droppingly layered and with bags of sophistication and poise, this wine totally resets the benchmark for 100 points.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 100 points “Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Wraith leaps from the glass with gregarious black and red cherries, mulberries, black currant cordial, red roses and lavender scents with layers of crushed rocks and earthy sparks. Faint earth and exotic spice nuances unfurl slowly, growing in intensity and depth. The palate is full-bodied and solidly structured with firm, very finely grained, super ripe tannins and bold freshness. Finishing exquisitely perfumed, jaw-droppingly layered and with bags of sophistication and poise, this wine totally resets the benchmark for 100 points.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $495
The average price is $586
Mature, complex, and profound
Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blancs, Champagne NV 750ML ($99.95) $75 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 92 points “Based on the 2012 vintage, the latest rendition of Heidsieck’s NV Blanc de Blancs incorporates some 20% reserve wines, derived from younger vintages to emphasize what Cyril Brun described as the “youthful” side of Chardonnay, in contrast to the mature expression of that cépage offered by the house’s Blanc de Millénaires. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, white flowers, green apple and walnut oil, complemented by some of the empyreumatic nuances so typical of the base vintage, it’s a medium to full-bodied, elegantly textural and incisive wine that’s lively and inviting. It was disgorged last year with nine grams per liter dosage.”
Decanter 92 points “One of the pioneers of the blanc de blancs style, Charles Heidsieck only relaunched its 100% Chardonnay NV Champagne in 2018. Round but incisive and fresh, this has lovely balance between its creamy, woody mouthfeel and its fresh, saline acidity. A lovely food wine.”
A standout in the excellent 2018 Beaujolais vintage.
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Fleurie les Garants, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Chermette’s 2018 Fleurie Les Garants delivers a striking bouquet of raspberries, peonies, warm spices and candied peel, followed by a medium to full-bodied, satiny but incisive palate that remains lively and tensile, despite its abundant endowment of ripe, succulent fruit. Elegant and precise, this is one of the high points of the portfolio.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
“I can’t recommend these wines highly enough” –Antonio Galloni, speaking on the Roagna 2014s
Roagna Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($44.95) $36.60 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2014 Langhe Rosso is an absolutely gorgeous wine. Sweet tobacco, mint, crushed flowers, licorice, dried cherry and cedar give the 2014 striking complexity and nuance. In some vintages, the Langhe Rosso can be a bit frail, but the 2014 is supported by bright acids and beams of supporting tannin that confer a great deal of energy. The 2014 is a blend of estate fruit from both Pira and Pajè, that spent just under three years in oak and two years in cement.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $39
A Petrus-challenging Merlot from a classic Tuscan estate.
Tua Rita Redigaffi Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($299.95) $229 special, 11 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 100 points “This is an extraordinary merlot with such purity and focus. Flowers such as violets and hints of orange peel. It is full-bodied yet incredibly energetic and structured. The finish goes on for minutes. Seamless texture. Fresh yet dense. Contrasty. Best Redigaffi ever. Hard not to drink now but a wine for decades.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Lush and polished, featuring a cashmere texture caressing vanilla, chocolate, black cherry and plum flavors. Well-balanced, with a persistent finish. The harmony hides a solid structure. Decant now. Merlot. Best from 2020 through 2032.”
Mauro Molino is a producer whose flagship Barolo, “Conca”, we carry every vintage if we can. The 2015 is especially good—bold, rich, round and surprisingly accessible already. We’re glad we have a track record with the wine, because given the price (under $60) and the score (94 points from the Wine Advocate) allocations tightened up this year.
Mauro Molino Vigna Conca, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 94 points “The Mauro Molino 2015 Barolo Conca is the most impressive and firmly compact of the wines presented this year from this estate in the picturesque, hilltop village of La Morra. Indeed, this wine showcases the textbook La Morra characteristics of fine fruit, elegant tannins and an elongated, streamlined mouthfeel. This Barolo floats forward over the palate with the grace of a snowy egret. It shows a glossy and polished approach that merits pause and consideration. Fermentation is in stainless steel and aging takes place in barrique. A mere 3,068 bottles were released.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $73.99
Vina Zorzal ‘Cuatro del Cuatro’, Navarra 2018 750ML ($36.95) $29 special
Luis Gutierrez – Wine Advocate 94 points “The pure Graciano 2018 Cuatro del Cuatro was first produced in 2015 as an homage to the Sanz brothers’ father, who kept his Graciano vines when the majority ripped them up. They have seen that, with a soft vinification, the variety is not as rustic as most think and, in fact, can be quite elegant. 2018 was a tricky vintage for the variety, and the wine has moderate alcohol (13.3%), a very low pH (3.35) and notable acidity (six grams of tartaric acid per liter). It was produced with grapes grown in the village of Corella (especially from a vineyard planted in 1978), which has more Mediterranean influence that Fitero, the other village where they have the majority of their vineyards. This is a super serious Graciano, fresher than the majority of varietal bottlings out there, as they have lost the fear of harvesting it earlier, and it delivers a very spicy wine, with lots of black and even white peppercorns. I think this is very much in line with the 2016. It matured in used oak barrels of different sizes, and they did a barrel selection to produce 2,900 bottles of it.”
This is the only listing on the West Coast!
Trending Wines Arriving in November
The 2019 Donnhoff wines are going… going…
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 100 points “All of nature’s springtime joy and the epitome of autumnal ripeness somehow combine with summer-morning dew to offer one of the greatest off-dry German wines made in modern times. Breathtaking finish, so wonderfully light and filigree. From organically grown grapes with Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
John Gilman 95+ points “The Dönnhoffs’ 2019 Hermannshöhle Spätlese is another absolutely stellar wine in the making. The purity and precisely-cut nature of the 2019 vintage is on display here in spades, as the bouquet delivers a gorgeous combination of pink grapefruit, apple, iris blossoms, bee pollen, still a hint of wild yeasts, orange zest, an exotic hint of mint and a kaleidoscopic base of slate minerality. On the palate the wine is pure, refined and fullish, with gorgeous filigree and nascent complexity, a fine girdle of acidity, laser-like focus and a seamless sense of balance and grace on the very long, vibrant finish. The 2018 Hermannshöhle Spätlese was flashier out of the blocks, but my gut feeling is that the 2019 version is going to just edge it out over the long course of their respective lives in bottle. This is an understated and utterly beautiful wine. 2025-2060+.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Our perennial staff favorite Champagne
Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($59.95) $45 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($349.95) $256 pre-arrival special (that’s only $42.67/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Case-12 Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($679.95) $489 pre-arrival special (that’s only $40.75/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Review for L17 provided for reference.
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “The latest release of the NV Brut Réserve was disgorged in October 2019 with seven grams per liter dosage, and it’s based on the 2017 vintage. Exhibiting a glass bouquet of citrus oil, oyster shell, fresh peach and toasted nuts, it’s medium to full-bodied, racy and tensile, with lovely depth and concentration, fine energy and a long, penetrating finish.”
Peter Liem note “The range begins with the Brut Réserve, a non-vintage brut that usually contains about 25 percent chardonnay, 25 percent meunier and 20 percent pinot noir from the base vintage, along with 30 percent of reserve wines, also from the three varieties.”
“I often find myself reaching for the NV Brut Réserve, which is reliably one of the very finest Champagnes in its peer group” –Antonio Galloni, writing on the previous disgorgement
Base vintage subject to change by the importer without notice.
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $60
New Wine Spectator Insider Reviews
Recent Barolo releases are in the spotlight this week!
G.D. Vajra Bricco delle Viole, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Case-6 G.D. Vajra Bricco delle Viole, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special (that’s only $83.17/bottle), additional stock arriving in November!
Wine Spectator 96 points “Mint and cut grass aromas give way to cherry, black currant and raspberry fruit in this juicy red. Tar, tobacco and eucalyptus accents add depth as this builds to a long, gripping finish. Shows fine balance and length. Best from 2023 through 2046.”
G.D. Vajra Bricco delle Viole, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 12 bottles in stock nowCase-6 G.D. Vajra Bricco delle Viole, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special (that’s only $83.17/bottle), additional stock arriving in November!
Wine Spectator 96 points “Mint and cut grass aromas give way to cherry, black currant and raspberry fruit in this juicy red. Tar, tobacco and eucalyptus accents add depth as this builds to a long, gripping finish. Shows fine balance and length. Best from 2023 through 2046.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $97
G.D. Vajra ‘Coste di Rose’, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “Dusty cherry, black currant, eucalyptus and hay aromas and flavors highlight this energetic red. There is purity to the beam of fruit, and while the structure is muscular, the lasting impression is of sweet fruit. Best from 2023 through 2045.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $69.89
The average price is $75
Elvio Cogno Barolo Bricco Pernice, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Case-6 Elvio Cogno Barolo Bricco Pernice, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($719.95) $619 pre-arrival special (that’s only $103.17/bottle), additional stock arriving in December!
Wine Spectator 95 points “Aromas of camphor and sweet pipe tobacco give way to cherry, tar and wild scrub flavors in this densely structured red, which is elegant and sinewy, with a lingering, chewy finish. Best from 2023 through 2045.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $127
Arriving in October
Vietti Lazzarito, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($299.95) $219 pre-arrival special, 30 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Juniper, sage, green tea, cherry and tar flavors mark this savory red, which is rich, backed by a bracing structure, yet remains balanced and long on the finish. Very pure and vibrant, with a fine matrix of tannins. Best from 2024 through 2043.”
Bonus New Review from Wine Spectator Insider
Louis Roederer Cristal Millesime Brut, Champagne 2012 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 97 points “A classic beauty, fresh-faced and focused today but with a harmonious grace of form suggesting a long career ahead. There’s a creamy, viscous quality to the mousse that swathes the palate, carrying finely detailed flavors of poached quince, Mandarin orange preserves, toasted almond and pickled ginger. Mouthwatering throughout, with a pleasing, soft zestiness to the mineral-laced finish. Drink now through 2035.”
New Grapelive Review:
2015 Giovanni Rosso
Giovanni Rosso makes Barolo that’s synonymous with the perhaps the most prestigious commune in the area: Serralunga d’Alba. The commune is known for powerful, age worthy versions of Barolo, highlighted by its most famous wines: Conterno’s Francia (and Monfortino), Giacosa’s Rocche del Falletto, Brovia’s Ca’Mia and a number of wines from Vigna Rionda. Perhaps no winery is more closely associated with the sub region than Giovanni Rosso, a winery that goes back to the 1890’s and has made its mark with powerful, intense Barolos.
Giovanni Rosso Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 24+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 94 points “Davide Rosso’s 2015 Barolo normale is a fabulous wine of earthy intensity and lingering charm. It proved just what the doctor order after a long week and the feeling of need for a slight celebration of getting through it all and the madness of the world. I was more than thrilled with this 2015 vintage, even though I am excited to get my hands on the 2016s… [This vintage] shows exceptional Nebbiolo purity and a compelling grace to its presentation. The nose starts more earth driven than fruity, kind of a surprise considering the warm year and concentration, but with air there is the pretty dried roses and hints of violets with a nice mineral tone as well and the dark berry fruit emerges with time in the glass. The palate is dense and firm, as you’d find in a Cru version, though everything folds together seamlessly in the mouth with its array of brandied morello cherries, damson plum, macerated raspberry and tart huckleberry fruits along with a touch of bacon, amaro minty herbs and black licorice…. The Barolo sees a long fermentation, close to a month in most years and sees between 24 and 36 months in large used French oak casks after primary fermentation, which occurs in cement vats with daily punchdowns during that maceration period as the wine goes to fully dry. The finished result is one of the best values out there and this 2015 is an awesome bargain!”
Giovanni Rosso Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 24+ bottles in stock nowGrapelive 94 points “Davide Rosso’s 2015 Barolo normale is a fabulous wine of earthy intensity and lingering charm. It proved just what the doctor order after a long week and the feeling of need for a slight celebration of getting through it all and the madness of the world. I was more than thrilled with this 2015 vintage, even though I am excited to get my hands on the 2016s… [This vintage] shows exceptional Nebbiolo purity and a compelling grace to its presentation. The nose starts more earth driven than fruity, kind of a surprise considering the warm year and concentration, but with air there is the pretty dried roses and hints of violets with a nice mineral tone as well and the dark berry fruit emerges with time in the glass. The palate is dense and firm, as you’d find in a Cru version, though everything folds together seamlessly in the mouth with its array of brandied morello cherries, damson plum, macerated raspberry and tart huckleberry fruits along with a touch of bacon, amaro minty herbs and black licorice…. The Barolo sees a long fermentation, close to a month in most years and sees between 24 and 36 months in large used French oak casks after primary fermentation, which occurs in cement vats with daily punchdowns during that maceration period as the wine goes to fully dry. The finished result is one of the best values out there and this 2015 is an awesome bargain!”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Don’t miss our 2016 Giovanni Rosso Barolo offer, arriving this month:
The 2016 vintage is epic—up there with 2010, ’04 and ’01 in contention for best of the century—and Giovanni Rosso absolutely killed it in the vintage, with bold, traditional-styled wines that are everything we love about Barolo. The Serralunga bottling is a blend of a number of vineyards across their home commune—a step up from their entry-level wine. The two crus are absolute stars of the vintage, receiving rave reviews from both Wine Enthusiast and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (the only two publications to taste them, so far).
The wines were just released in Italy and we’ve got limited quantities of all three: just 36 each of the Serra and Cerretta, plus 60 bottles of the Serralunga. Those sorts of quantities won’t last long, so don’t hesitate in placing your order.
Arriving ETA October:
Giovanni Rosso Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Rose, red-berry, camphor and dark-spice aromas slowly emerge in the glass. Showing Serralunga’s hallmark of firm structure and finesse, the full-bodied, youthfully tense palate delivers juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, dried mint and licorice set against a backbone of noble tannins. Bright acidity keeps it impeccably balanced. Drink 2026–2056. -Kerin O’Keefe”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The Giovanni Rosso 2016 Barolo Cerretta is a tight, focused and high-energy expression of Nebbiolo. Red and purple fruit aromas of cassis, dried cranberry and cherry provide pretty highlights, but ample space is given to those equally pretty aromas of licorice, campfire ash and candied orange peel that so deftly play supporting roles. To the palate, this is a glossy, polished wine with enough tannic kick to carry it forward for another 10 or 20 years of cellar aging. -Monica Larner”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Giovanni Rosso La Serra, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Underbrush, wild herb, menthol and dark-spice aromas mingle with a whiff of fragrant purple flower on this gorgeous red. It boasts firm structure and finesse in equal measure, featuring juicy morello cherry, raspberry compote, licorice and cinnamon framed in assertive but refined tannins and fresh acidity. A minty note lingers on the finish. Drink 2028–2056. Kerin O’Keefe”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The Giovanni Rosso 2016 Barolo Serra shows a dark and richer quality of fruit (next to the Cerretta) with black cherry and plum, backed by clayey aromas with grilled herb and camphor ash. Both these wines are beautifully characteristic of Serralunga d’Alba, known for its powerful and rich interpretations of Nebbiolo. I very much admire the tannic management shown by this wine from the Serra vineyard. It is a little tight and astringent at this young stage of course, but it also shows an inner silkiness that should serve nicely as the wine continues its bottle evolution. -Monica Larner”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Giovanni Rosso Barolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Iris, woodland-berry and pine-forest aromas shape the nose. On the focused, vibrant palate, mint and star anise notes accent a core juicy Marasca cherry. Taut polished tannins and bright acidity provide balance and a firm lithe structure. Drink 2024–2031. -Kerin O’Keefe”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $55
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
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When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
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(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
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
Weingut Falkenstein
Newly Arrived, but Highly Limited
Hofgut Falkenstein Krettnacher Euchariusberg Riesling Kabinett AP12, Mosel 2019 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 10 bottles in stock nowStephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95+ points “Entirely from one plot of vines on blue-gray clayey slate soils with quartzite, the 2019 Krettnacher Euchariusberg Riesling Kabinett #12 Kugel Peter opens with super clear, refined and bright Riesling aromas with slatey, floral and iron notes and even green olives. Juicy-piquant and pervasively salty on the palate, this is a firmly structured, sweet and complex yet fine picture-book Kabinett with grip and tension but the lightness and filigreed structure only the very best Kabinett wines have to offer. 8.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2020.”
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “The 2019er Euchariusberg Riesling Kabinett Kugel Peter (the reference to this internal cask name is provided in small print on the label) was harvested at 85° Oechsle on 50-year-old grafted vines in the prime Gross Schock sector of the vineyard which was classified in the highest category on the old taxation maps, and was fermented down to barely fruity-styled levels of residual sugar (42 g/l). It offers a superb nose made of citrusy fruits, a hint of vineyard peach, chalky minerals, cassis, a touch of whipped cream, and residual scents from its spontaneous fermentation. The wine is superbly playful on the palate, where the acidity is already nicely integrated. The finish is all about finesse, length, and tension. The after-taste is stunningly vibrating, deep, intense, precise, and hugely complex. But this gorgeous Kabinett is all about subtlety and not presence. It needs from extensive airing at this early stage (talk days rather than hours) in order to show its true colors. But the waiting is worth it, so expect to be patient for a full decade to get the most from this superb Kabinett! 2029-2049.”
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Hofgut Falkenstein Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett Feinherb AP15, Mosel 2019 750ML ($33.95) $26 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “The 2019er Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett Feinherb AP 15 (known internally as “Fuder Kasselsheidchen”) comes from grapes harvested in the similarly named Lieu-Dit in the upper part of the vineyard, and was fermented down to off-dry levels of residual sugar (20 g/l). This bright-colored wine offers an engaging even if still rather reduced nose made of mirabelle, grapefruit, red berried fruits, herbs, and fine spices. The wine proves beautifully balanced and engaging on the mouth-watering palate, where more herbal elements come through and add depth to the experience. The finish is all about pear, apple, laurel, and wet stone, all wrapped into some stunningly vibrant but ripe acidity. Lovers of feather-light, precise, and racy Riesling should plunge on this wine. 2022-2034.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Hofgut Falkenstein Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett Trocken AP19, Mosel 2019 750ML ($33.95) $29 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “The 2019er Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett Trocken Egon (the reference to this internal cask name is provided in small print on the label) comes from over 50-year-old vines in the south-facing part of the vineyard situated just below the Estate’s cellar. It proves rather non-saying at first and takes quite a few minutes before revealing subtle scents of wet stone, vineyard peach, citrusy fruits, and minty herbs. They are gradually joined by riper elements including melon and pear. The wine proves very racy and citrusy on the superbly light-footed palate, and it is only in the finish that the gorgeous, finely chiseled structure comes through. Pear, wet stone, and citrusy elements drive the aftertaste. This fascinatingly light-footed yet intense expression of dry Riesling remains true to its Prädikat. It will make lovers of the genre go into overdrive! While enjoyable on its citrusy side now, this beauty will only reveal its full glory in a few years. 2024-2034.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Hofgut Falkenstein Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Spatlese Feinherb AP4, Mosel 2019 750ML ($35.95) $31.90 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “From a parcel with old, ungrafted vines, the 2019 Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Spätlese feinherb #4 Onkel Peter opens with a clear, delicate and floral bouquet of finely weathered slate and perfectly ripe, healthy white seed fruits. Intense and refined on the palate, this is a generous, juicy, sweet but also complex and sustainable Spätlese with a firm structure and a long, refined and salty finish. This is not a Spätlese to drink young but one to cellar for at least 5-10 years. The aging potential should be enormous here. 9.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2020.”
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2019er Niedermennig Herrenberg Riesling Spätlese Feinherb Onkel Peter (the reference to this internal cask name is provided in small print on the label) comes from un-grafted vines in the south-facing Zuckerberg sector of the vineyard, and was fermented to off-dry levels of residual sugar (31 g/l). It opens up to superbly pure and airy scents of ripe white and yellow peach, apricot blossom, fine herbal elements, a hint of whipped cream, and wet stone. The finesse carries over onto the palate, where the staggering aromatic depth and delicacy is only masked by a touch of sweetness at this early stage. But the finish and the incredibly complex after-taste proves simply remarkable. This really only needs a bit of aging for the touch of smoothening sweetness to integrate with the racy acidity and fully shine. 2029-2044.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Collector’s Corner:
Hudelot Noellat Sale
Alain Hudelot-Noellat Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($219.95) Was $179, Now $169 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The estate’s 2008 Clos de Vougeot is a pretty, layered and open wine laced with dark red fruit, flowers and black pepper. It is a soft, supple 2008, and while undoubtedly very well-made, it lacks the visceral thrill of the very finest wines of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022.”
Burghound 92 points “A densely fruited nose of very fresh and reasonably refined animale and earth-suffused red currant and plum aromas introduces exceptionally pure and gorgeously textured middle weight flavors that also possess excellent volume and plenty of taut muscularity on the slightly herbal, long, austere and detailed finish. A balanced effort that should amply reward mid-term cellaring, at least by the standards of this cru.”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The estate’s 2008 Clos de Vougeot is a pretty, layered and open wine laced with dark red fruit, flowers and black pepper. It is a soft, supple 2008, and while undoubtedly very well-made, it lacks the visceral thrill of the very finest wines of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022.”
Burghound 92 points “A densely fruited nose of very fresh and reasonably refined animale and earth-suffused red currant and plum aromas introduces exceptionally pure and gorgeously textured middle weight flavors that also possess excellent volume and plenty of taut muscularity on the slightly herbal, long, austere and detailed finish. A balanced effort that should amply reward mid-term cellaring, at least by the standards of this cru.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $265
Alain Hudelot-Noellat Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2006 750ML ($319.95) Was $279, Now $249 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 92+ points “Medium red. Slightly musky nose began tight but showed black cherry and menthol with air. Then very sweet, fruit-driven and light on its feet, with pungent red berry flavors spreading out to saturate the palate without giving any impression of weight. Offers superb intensity of fruit and length. A splendid showing today, but this also has the acid/tannin spine for a long and positive evolution in bottle.”
Burghound 91-94 points “A noticeable touch of wood spice adds nuance to the otherwise earthy and relatively somber red pinot fruit where notes of underbrush and a hint of animale are also present. The big and well-muscled flavors possess fine concentration and lovely texture on the brooding and youthfully austere finish that is not only very firmly structured but delivers seriously impressive length. This is a powerful wine by any standard but particularly so in the context of the vintage and one that will need at least a decade to be at its best.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $274.99
Alain Hudelot-Noellat Les Suchots, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $199 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 93-95 points “Good bright, full red. Sexy, high-pitched aromas of crushed raspberry, Oriental spices and rose petal. Silky, penetrating and deep, displaying outstanding concentration and verve, and a magically light touch, to its brilliantly pure dark fruit and spice flavors. Wonderfully elegant, supple, dense wine with a superb building finish that leaves the mouth awash in perfume. These very old vines always have a high percentage of millerande berries and never produce more than 35 hectoliters per hectare, according to Charles van Canneyt.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Bonus Sale Item:
Domaine Roumier Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2007 750ML ($899.95) Was $699, Now $599 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points “Rich, dense and infused with cherry, this red gathers firmness from start to finish. There are some tannins from the oak, which also lend a spicy component. Mineral elements complete the picture as this lingers on the finish. Best from 2013 through 2027. 8 cases imported.”
Stephen Tanzer 92+ points “Good deep red. Sappy, spicy red fruits and smoked meat on the nose. Nicely juicy and precise, showing more spine than thickness. This is quite backward and imploded for the vintage and will need time to evolve. Really spreads out on the back half, dusting the palate with minerality. Structured for a leisurely development in bottle.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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