In This Newsletter:
Henri Bonneau’s Legendary CdP
The 2012 Célestins Arrives Friday
Willi Schaefer
The Ne Plus Ultra of Mosel
Smart Buys from Oregon
$20 – $30
Old-Vine Beaujolais
La Grosse Pierre’s 2018 Crus
Rhône Icons
Top Picks $100+
Collector’s Corner
E. Pira’s Compelling Barolo
Henri Bonneau’s Legendary CdP
The 2012 Célestins Arrives Friday
Henri Bonneau is a producer without peer in the Southern Rhône. No other winemaker has produced as many epic bottles in the last 30 years. We’ve just secured a small, 6-bottle parcel of one of his signature bottlings, Célestins, arriving later this week. These bottles offer exceptionally rare opportunities to experience what Jeb Dunnuck describes as “the essence of traditionally made Châteauneuf-du-Pape”.
“[Henri Bonneau’s] Châteauneufs have become legends in their maker’s lifetime, and anyone fortunate enough to try them can attest to the fact that these wines are utterly unique examples of the category, as well as some of the most idiosyncratic wines being made anywhere today. A visit to Bonneau is a step back in time-both in terms of the character of the wines and the bewildering maze of ancient cellars where the wines are raised. Tasting through the range of wines resting in cask here must not be much different today than a century or more ago.” –Josh Raynolds, Vinous
Arriving Friday, April 30th:
Henri Bonneau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve des Célestins, Rhône 2012 750ML ($499.95) $419 pre-arrival special
James Molesworth – Wine Spectator 97 points “This defines old school, with savory detail and notes of roasted chestnut, fresh tobacco leaf, cedar and brick dust leading off, backed by a core of currant, cherry and plum fruit flavors that is lightly dried yet nonetheless fresh and racy in feel. Singed juniper and bay leaf hints score the finish. Likely to hold just like this for some time. Best from 2020 through 2040. 400 cases made, 100 cases imported.”
In Stock Now:
Henri Bonneau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve des Célestins, Rhône 2005 750ML ($799.95) $599 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “A big, muscular Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2005 Henri Bonneau Réserve des Célestins delivers a thrilling array of plum, crème de cassis, roasted garrigue, blood, and hints of graphite on the nose. Absolutely compelling aromatically, with awesome typicity and complexity, this full-bodied, structured effort is thick and rich on the palate, with a layered, concentrated mid-palate, integrated acidity, and blockbuster length on the finish. Given the almost voluptuous texture and quality of fruit, this is a profound drink now; nevertheless, it will benefit from 5-7 years of bottle age, and keep for 2 decades or more. If I had to choose one bottle to represents the essence of traditionally made Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this would be it!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next lowest listed price is $795
The next lowest listed price is $795
Henri Bonneau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Spéciale, Rhône 1998 750ML ($1,399.95) $1,199 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine Spectator 98 points “This offers an aroma of chocolate-covered prunes stewing on the stove, along with notes of brick dust, black currant preserve, fresh espresso and powdered rust. Powerfully tannic and very heady, with layers of overripe fruit on the finish. Drinks like a Bual Madeira infused with black truffles, yet it somehow manages to maintain a sense of freshness. Amazing, but not for everyone. Drink now through 2025.”
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Love Châteauneuf-du-Pape? We have over 50 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Grand Veneur, Raymond Usseglio, Vaudieu and more, on our web store now.
Willi Schaefer
The Ne Plus Ultra of Mosel
Willi Schaefer, one of the Mosel’s most celebrated producers, is known for crafting wines that are approachable when young with beautiful fruit components. However, like all of the valley’s finest exports, they always impress with the ability to maintain vitality and finesse for 15+ years.
Graach, where today’s featured wines hail from, is a grand cru village of the Mosel. It is home to beautifully exposed blue slate vineyards, and its wines often show more white and green fruit when compared to Wehlen or Piesport. Schaefer values purity and precision, and the bottlings we’re highlighting today are terrific introductions to the estate. And did we mention that they’re absolutely delicious?
“For many tasters, these are the Ne Plus Ultra of Mosel wine, and they have attracted an almost religious following. Thus my most frustrating agency, as there is never enough wine. It is hard to put a finger on exactly what it is that makes these wines so precious. There is a candor about them that is quite disarming. They are polished too, but not brashly so. They are careful to delineate their vineyard characteristics, and they offer fruit of sublime purity. They are utterly soaring in flavor yet not without weight. What many of you seem to have warmed to is their clarity, precision and beauty of fruit, so maybe I’ll leave it at that!” –Terry Theise
In Stock Now:
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese #11, Mosel 2016 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “Tasted from a 375-milliliter bottle, the 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese (AP #11) offers a very clear, super ripe but still healthy bouquet of perfectly ripe Riesling intermixed with flinty, slightly caramelly aromas. On the palate, this is a lithe yet complex, piquant, refreshingly mineral and highly elegant Domprobst Auslese that reveals a firm, tensioned structure in the long, salty, already stimulating finish. Tasted March 2018.”
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Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese #11, Mosel 2018 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 19 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 95 points “According to Christophe Schaefer, the 2018 Domprobst Auslese AP #11 has just a tiny touch of botrytis in it, as it has almost exclusively been produced from golden berries. The wine is truly stunning on both the nose and palate, with the bouquet soaring from the glass in a blaze of pear, yellow plum, fresh pineapple, a gorgeous base of slate, citrus blossoms, bee pollen and lilacs. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, focused and zesty, with a lovely core, great backend mineral drive and outstanding complexity and grip on the vibrant, snappy and electric finish. This is just beautiful Auslese! 2026-2085+.”
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese #11, Mosel 2019 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 4 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 98 points “One of the great Mosel Auslese of this great vintage, thanks to its combination of purity and refinement. Enormously deep and subtle, right from the beginning, but the breathtaking finish is what seals it. So deep and so delicate. Drink or hold.”
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese #5, Mosel 2016 750ML ($54.95) $49 special, 7 bottles in stock now
David Schildknecht – Vinous 93 points “Ripe apple and pear garlanded in honeysuckle entice the nose, accompanied by high-toned suggestions of almond and pistachio extracts. A subtly creamy palate displays luscious fruit, heady inner-mouth perfume and rich nuttiness. There is less counterpoint or refreshment here than in the corresponding A.P. #10, but greater opulence has not precluded a delectable sense of delicacy, and the seductively soothing, superbly sustained finish offers a reassuring whisper of wet stone.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese (AP #5) has a lovey clear, piquant and still reductive nose that indicates tremendous complexity and richness. Round, super lush and elegant on the palate, this is a beautifully balanced and harmonious Spätlese that has an even riper and more textured character compared to the Spätlese #10.”
Mosel Fine Wines 93 points “This offers a gorgeous nose of slightly yellow fruits, ginger and earthy spices. The wine proves quite lively and nicely focused on the palate, with zesty acidity driving the aromatic profile. The wine is nicely elegant and well balanced in the focused and yellow peach infused finish. This is a gorgeous Spätlese in the making. 2026-2041”
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Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese #5, Mosel 2018 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 6 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 94+ points “The 2018 Domprobst Spätlese AP #5 is far more reserved out of the blocks than the AP #10 version, and this wine will demand some extended bottle age before it really starts to hit on all cylinders. However, the potential here is outstanding and all that is needed is some patience to outwait the inherent structural reserves of the Domprobst. The bouquet is a fine mix of pear, apple, salty slate minerality, bee pollen, petrol and spring flowers. On the palate the wine is deep, fullish and very, very precise, with superb cut, a great core and a veritable slate bath of minerality on the long, tightly-knit and focused finish. This is going to be stellar. 2028-2075+.”
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese #5, Mosel 2019 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling 98 points “Breathtaking complexity, thanks to an entire spectrum of fruit aromas (from apple to exotic fruit and a slew of berries), plus an entire microcosm of herbal and mineral notes! And the balance of racy acidity with all this and the merest hint of perceptible grape sweetness is like a lightning strike on a mountain top. Drink or hold.”
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Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese #10, Mosel 2016 750ML ($44.95) $39 special, 35 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese (AP #10) is one of three Spätlesen that were selected in 2016. The wine has a very clear and smoky bouquet of perfectly ripe, healthy Riesling berries and yellow-fleshed stone fruits. Round, lush and piquant, this is a very elegant and stimulating Spätlese with lingering, mouthwatering salinity. The wine is complex but not all too intellectual. It has a ripe but coolish-elegant character with a long, well-structured finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next lowest listed price is $53
The next lowest listed price is $53
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese #10, Mosel 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 93+ points “The AP #10 Spätlese from the Domprobst vineyard is also superb in 2018. The bouquet is bright and beautifully expressive for a young Domprobst, wafting from the glass in a blend of pear, apple, violets, bee pollen, a lovely base of slate and a gentle topnote of wild yeasts. On the palate the wine is fullish and nicely succulent on the attack, with truly beautiful purity to the fruit, fine soil signature and a long, perfectly balanced and zesty. I love the backend slate-acid duality that defines the backend of this wine. This is a Domprobst Spätlese that will only need three or four years in the cellar to really start drinking with style and generosity. 2023-2075.”
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Großes Gewächs, Mosel 2018 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2018er Himmelreich GG, as it is written on the main part of the label, comes from fruit picked in the Himmelreich and Stablay parts of the vineyard, and was fermented spontaneously and aged on its gross lees in traditional Fuder cask until June 2019. It offers a stunningly complex nose made of lemongrass, mirabelle, grapefruit, herbs, wet stone, and delicately earthy spices. The wine proves stunningly playful and balanced on the light-footed but intense palate. It leaves a superbly engaging feel of fresh fruits, minerals, and herbs pepped up a most delicate touch of tickly acidity in the long and suave finish. The after-taste is all about airiness as more fruits, minerals, and refreshing elements add depth to the experience. This is a stunning expression of airy dry Mosel Riesling. What a huge success! 2023-2033”
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese, Mosel 2016 750ML ($44.95) $39 special, 8 bottles in stock now
David Schildknecht – Vinous 93 points “Scents of ripe pear and pineapple garlanded in heliotrope set the stage for a polished, subtly creamy palate performance at once luscious, invigoratingly tangy, and loaded with seductive inner-mouth perfume. I thought the corresponding Kabinett exquisitely delicate, but this Spätlese seems virtually weightless. The lingering finish is almost like an inhalation of flowers and wet stone, save for the tingling impingement of pear skin, a faint tang of pineapple core and a nip of cress. I sense that I may be in the minority, but I perceive 2016 as one of those vintages chez Schaefer where Himmelreich gives Domprobst a very serious run for its money.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2016 Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese is clear and precise on the deep and flinty nose that also shows some floral aromas. Round, lush and sweet on the palate, with delicate acidity and lingering salinity, this is an elegant and already very accessible Spätlese with a very fine, aromatic, mineral, piquant and salty finish. A classic.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese, Mosel 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 13 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 93+ points “The Himmelreich has produced a beautiful Spätlese as well in 2018, and this is destined to be a long-lived and superb bottle. The complex nose is vibrant and refined, offering up scents of lime, pear, a nice touch of orange zest, bee pollen, elder flowers, lovely minerality and a topnote of citrus blossoms. On the palate the wine is medium-full, pure and zesty, with lovely inner tension between its beautiful fruit tones and mineral undertow. The finish is long, focused and bouncy, with lovely lift, cut and grip. 2022-2075.”
Weingut Willi Schaefer Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese, Mosel 2019 750ML ($69.95) $55 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2019 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese opens with a perfectly ripe, intense, tropical yet refined, elegant and slatey bouquet with floral notes on the refined, typical WSU nose. The palate is lush, round and voluptuous yet also very delicate and elegant, with lots of charm and substance. The finish is serious, expressive and structured for a long run. The wine already drinks dangerously well yet can be aged for up to 30 years easily. 7.5% alcohol. Tasted in June 2020.”
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Love German Riesling? We have over 350 different options (not a typo!) in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including staff favorites like Peter Lauer and Von Winning, as well as more from Willi Schaefer.
Smart Buys from Oregon
$20 – $30
$20 – $30
Whites
In Stock Now:
Each sip reveals something new
Twill Cellars Chardonnay, Northern Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Smells of tangerine, cream, kaffir lime, saline and toasted grain, with bass notes of peach, cashew and crushed rock. Flavors of sinewy citrus fruits including tangerine, lime, and grapefruit pith are followed with resonating flavors of saline and cream.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Our best-selling Oregon producer for a reason
Goodfellow Family Cellars Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($26.95) $22.75 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Modest yields combined with a cool growing season led to a very ideal set of Chardonnays in 2019. These are light to medium bodied wines, with great depth, structure, and acidity. Alcohols are between 11.8-12.8%, giving them a weightlessness, balanced by textural richness from extended elevage on the lees. Flavors are a seamless transition from attack to the finish, and they are more sinewy than soft. While it may seem overly dramatic, as I tasted through the line up, I kept thinking of looking at an exhibit of Samurai swords that came through Portland several years ago. While they will be fine to consume young, these wines scream for a few years in the cellar and I believe will be absolutely outstanding in 5-15 years.”
A sophisticated Sauv Blanc
Bow & Arrow Le Chenaie Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Proof that Sauvignon Blanc made the right way can be terroir wine, the short distance between Union School and La Chenaie belies the profoundly different ways in which the two sites express themselves. We make the two wines exactly the same way but the Eola-Amity Hills highlights wholly different attributes in Sauvignon Blanc. This expression is more sophisticated than it’s southern brother and incorporates a savory aspect we find fascinating. Texturally is carries more weight and depth without being ponderous. Reminiscent of stone fruit, guava, mint and a whiff of Rum Agricole.”
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A white to pair with pizza?
Ross & Bee Maloof ‘Beckenridge Vineyard’ Gewurztraminer, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Black tea, rose petals, and sea salt. Fermented until dry on the skins (20 days) before being pressed off into neutral French oak to rest through the winter. Serve chilled or at cellar temp with bitter greens and alpine cheeses. Or with pizza, serve all our wines with pizza. 100% Gewürztraminer from Beckenridge Vineyard, Willamette Valley AVA. Alcohol 12.5% Crushed and destemmed, fermented with daily pigeage for 20 days. Pressed off into neutral oak barrels. Aged on the lees for 10 months. 145 Cases.”
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A staff favorite
Championship Bottle ‘Silicone on Sapphire’ White, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($34.95) $27 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Michael Alberty-Oregonian/Oregon Live “Silicone on Sapphire” is The Clash’s dub version of their song “Washington Bullets.” “Silicone on Sapphire” the wine is Saul Mutchnick’s Oregon remix of the great whites of Friuli. Mutchnick’s blend of Willamette Valley ribolla gialla, Tocai Friulano, pinot blanc and chardonnay is one of my favorite discoveries of 2020. Scents of yellow apples, earth, butterscotch and rose hips filled the air when I poured this wine into my glass. Flavors of pineapple, green mango, coriander and white pepper sealed the deal. Go find this wine before it disappears from local shelves.”
Winery note “A remix of a Friuli-style blend. This might be the singular wine that embodies what we hope to accomplish—more proof that the native tongue of the Willamette Valley has a Furlan accent. It’s inspired by the tradition of blended white wines from that corner of Italy and is composed of 26% Ribolla Gialla, 8% Tocai Friulano, and 33% each Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay. This was done partially for practical reasons (there are a total of one and a quarter rows of the Ribolla/Friulano at Omero Vineyard) and partially because both grapes do so well as blending components. Ribolla has an austerity to it that provides structure and spine, while Friulano is blessed with beautiful fruit but lacks some acidity. Pinot Blanc seemed to heighten those grapes’ characteristics and Chard provided a beautiful background texture.”
Reds
In Stock Now:
Taut & intense
Twill Cellars Pinot Noir, Northern Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Brooding, savory aromatics of dried rose, bitter cherry, earth, blood orange, soy, toasted grain and ripe raspberries. Flavors of blood orange, dark chocolate, warm spices, espresso, and ripe raspberry. Both taut and intense.”
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Generous & concentrated
J.K. Carriere Provocateur Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 91 points “Deep, bright-rimmed magenta. Smoke- and spice-accented cherry and black raspberry aromas take on a suave floral quality with air. Supple and broad on entry and then more taut in the midpalate, offering bitter cherry, dark berry and candied licorice flavors and a hint of espresso. Finishes long and chewy, with dusty tannins lending final grip. 15% new oak.”
Winery note “The Cliff Notes: The color is deep beet red with a waffle cone nose of concentrated cherry, spice, plum and grilled meat. Experientially, it’s almost as if you had got popped in the mouth in a cherry orchard at harvest — by which I mean, concentrated-saline-Bing cherry on vibrant acidity. The fine emery board texture beautifully meets the acid-laced structure and finishes long. The Name: Provocateurs are, of course, troublemakers. Think of them as emissaries occupying a permeable border between the lands of outright bad and self-righteous good. Now then, who’s up for a trip? A Story: The growing year of 2018 was sunny, warm and powerful, offering a smaller-ish crop — a veritable bruiser, headed for a boozer. Luckily, early September stepped in with some refrain, just in the nick of time, and gave us a week of chill temps that reined in the grapes. The result is pretty massive, but not over-the-top wines that maintain reasonable elegance. Muscles are not the question, but whether or not you can also move your feet.”
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A Loire-inspired Oregon red
Bow & Arrow Rhinestones Red, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 92 points “One of Oregon’s most unique and tasty wines, Bow & Arrow’s Rhinestones is an all natural and organic blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Gamay Noir coming from the Johan Vineyard, a biodynamically farmed site in the Willamette Valley and fermented with lots of crunchy whole cluster, making for a darkly ripe and spicy wine that took its inspiration from the Loire Valley’s Cheverny region of France. Scott Frank, owner of Bow & Arrow, the urban Portland micro winery, is committed to producing artisan, fun, eccentric and delicious bottlings with a nod to the old world and with a modern twist in some cases and this Rhinestones is his unassuming signature wine, and one that can you on a thrill ride of flavors, as this new 2019 release does with bright punchy layers of black cherry, plum, lingonberry and bramble berry fruits, racy peppercorns, cinnamon stick, dark wood, floral notes and an earthy intensity that is very appealing in this medium bodied red…. this 2019 really shines with an exciting dense mouth feel and a warm forward personality, a bit less edgy than the last two years, but still is its flamboyant and devilishly pleasing, especially with simple foods and with its quaffable low alcohol easiness….This wine is the flagship of the Bow & Arrow (Portland based) operation according to Frank, who adds that it communicates what Bow & Arrow is all about as much as anything he makes. The winery focuses on transparency and raw authenticity with this Rhinestones, as they put, being an effortlessly drinkable effort, but a wine that rewards detective work if you’re in the mood, which I always seem to be, this is a wine that I try not to miss.”
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Perfumed, structured & elegant
Goodfellow Family Cellars Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir is made up entirely of fruit from Whistling Ridge Vineyard. Vines sit ridge-top and catch the daily winds that blow in, slowing ripening , evaporating moisture, and thickening skins. Shallow soils are formed from upli ed marine sedimentary rock, and dry out quickly in the growing season. Richard and Patricia Alvord planted and have farmed the 14 acre plot for the past two and a half decades. Patricia does all of her own gra ing , and Pinot Noir plantings are a selection massale of over half a dozen clones. The wines are red-fruited, perfumed, structured and elegant.”
Nuanced & silky
Biggio Hamina Cellars Holmes Gap Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($39.95) $27 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Light bright red. Highly perfumed aromas of red berry preserves, Asian spices and mocha take on a bright mineral overtone as the wine opens up. Lively, appealingly sweet and penetrating in the mouth, offering fresh raspberry, cherry and spicecake flavors that gain weight with aeration. Cola and floral pastille nuances appear on a very long, spice-tinged finish framed by silky, well-knit tannins.”
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Certified biodynamic!
Brick House Vineyards Gamay Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($31.95) $29 special, 12 bottles in stock now
No reviews for the 2019 vintage available. 2018 vintage review provided for reference.
James Suckling 91 points “Impressive aromas of blueberries and raspberries with leafy violets and pepper. The palate has superb clarity of fresh, blackcurrant and strawberry flavors and a white pepper dusting the finish. Drink or hold.”
VinopolNote “Certified biodynamic”
A cellar pick
Left Coast Cellars Right Bank Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2015 750ML ($39.95) $29 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds 92 points “Limpid ruby-red. Sexy, oak-tinged cherry and cassis aromas are complemented by building floral, spice and mineral nuances. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry and rose pastille flavors that deepen and turn sweeter with air. Fine-grained tannins lend shape to the finish, which hangs on with strong, floral-tinged persistence.”
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Love supporting local wineries? We have over 275 different options from Oregon and Washington in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Cameron, Crowley, Hundred Suns and more, on our web store now.
Old-Vine Beaujolais
La Grosse Pierre’s 2018 Crus
La Grosse Pierre’s 2018 Crus
Pauline Passot took advantage of her family’s long history growing grapes in Chiroubles to found a small winery in 2016. Their parcels are ancient, with nothing younger than 40 years old, and some vines 70, 90, or even 100 years old. These special vines yield the perfect material for crafting classically-styled Beaujolais.
Of course in Burgundy proper, the juice of similarly ancient Pinot Noir vines would set you back $100-$500/bottle. Fortunately, some fool in the 14th century decreed the grape as ‘disloyal’ and 600 years later Passot’s gems are under $25 a bottle. So if you’re looking to stock up on some springtime reds, you’ll be hard pressed to find better value than (what remains) of our lineup of La Grosse Pierre’s 2018 Crus.
In Stock Now:
Domaine de la Grosse Pierre Chiroubles Cuvée Claudius, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 17 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92+ points “Bursting with aromas of cherries, blackberries, licorice and violets, the 2018 Chiroubles Claudius is medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a muscular chassis of powdery tannin largely concealed by a rich core of fruit. This is a terrific Chiroubles with the stuffing (and a high-quality Trescases cork) to evolve with grace in the cellar.”
VinopolNote “From 90-100 year old vines.”
Domaine de la Grosse Pierre Morgon Douby, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 7 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Unfurling in the glass with aromas of blackberries, violets, licorice and cracked pepper, the 2018 Morgon Douby is medium to full-bodied, velvety and succulent, with a fleshy core of fruit underpinned by powdery tannins that mark this out as one of Passot’s more structured wines this year.”
VinopolNote “From 70 year old vines.”
Domaine de la Grosse Pierre Chiroubles, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 19 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 90 points “I underestimated the 2018 Chiroubles La Grosse Pierre when I tasted it not long after it had been bottled, and six months later, it’s performing very well. Mingling aromas of black cherries and blackberries with hints of cracked pepper and herbs, the wine is medium to full-bodied, supple and elegantly fleshy, with succulent acids, melting tannins and a seamless profile.”
VinopolNote “From 45 year old vines.”
Love Beaujolais? We have over 40 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Anne-Sophie Dubois, Chermette Vissoux, Daniel Bouland and more, on our web store now.
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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
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503-223-6002
Rhône Icons
Top Picks $100+
Top Picks $100+
Northern Rhône
In Stock Now:
Terroir-driven, elegant & balanced
Domaine Garon Côte Rôtie Lancement, Rhône 2016 750ML ($179.95) $138 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “(50% new oak and 50% whole clusters) Vivid purple. Candied cherry, blueberry, Moroccan spices and olive paste on the exotically perfumed nose. Silky, seamless and sweet on the palate, offering juicy, spice-laced black and blue fruit, floral pastille and spicecake flavors that tighten up slowly on the back half. A smoky mineral note comes up on the strikingly long finish, which is framed by smooth, well-integrated tannins.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The terroir always seems to yield a complex, aromatic style of Côte Rôtie, and the 2016 Côte Rôtie Lancement is just that. Fabulous notes of black raspberries, blackberries, rose petals, decayed flowers, and cured meats all flow to a medium to full-bodied, seamless 2016 that’s all about grace and elegance. It has fine tannins but is beautifully balanced and already approachable.”
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A complex 2008 drinking beautifully today
Domaine Auguste Clape Cornas, Rhône 2008 750ML ($219.95) $149 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points “600mm of rain in the summer, ‘never-ending rain’ according to Pierre Clape, leading to mildew in June, rot and dilution at harvest. But like many of the best 2008s, it’s surprisingly enjoyable now mature. It’s ready to drink now, with cigar box, white pepper and raspberry fruit, then sage and thyme on the palate. It lacks weight compared to an average vintage, but has a good sense of freshness. Aromatically a little faint, but it has complexity on the palate and textural interest.”
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The next lowest listed price is $160
The next lowest listed price is $160
“Just superb!”
Domaine Jamet Côte Rôtie, Rhône 2014 750ML ($189.95) $169 special, 11 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95-96 points “Plenty of violets, pepper and deep-set spices are all part of the equation here, and this is a very complex Côte Rôtie that has a wealth of darkly stony notes, coal smoke and dark chocolate. Just superb! The palate’s succulent and swathed in plush, fine tannins that envelop black- and red-plum flavors. Plenty of volume, great elegance and a lot of detail. A vintage when experienced makers could still shine, and the sorting in the vineyard was clearly a large part of this. Classy wine with so much on offer. Best from 2020 for a decade or more. Tasted in tank shortly before bottling.”
“A serious collectible with three decades of evolution ahead of it”
Paul Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage La Chapelle, Rhône 2017 750ML ($219.95) $189 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2017 Hermitage La Chapelle comes from the firm’s vineyards on the western half of the Hermitage slope, primarily Le Méal, but with substantial contributions from Les Rocoules and Les Bessards. Classic notes of cassis, black olives, mocha and roasted meat are joined by hints of baking spices in a wine that’s full-bodied, deep, dense and rich, with a velvety texture and a lingering finish. It’s lower in alcohol than the 2018, less voluptuous and maybe just a step behind that monumental wine, but it’s still a serious collectible with three decades of evolution ahead of it.”
James Suckling 98 points “The icon is in dangerously seductive form. Such pristine dark cherries, blackberries and dark plums, dark chocolate, finely crushed spices and plenty of crushed dark stones on offer. The palate is very intense, very slick and fine tannins deliver an almost playfully soft impression. The oak is super integrated. Like La Maison Bleue, this approachability is an aberration, as it has immense power, concentration and length with such regal and alluring swagger at the finish. But there is so much more to come. Try from 2024, better after 2030.”
“Massive, dense, sexy”
M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon, Rhône 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 98+ points “The star of the show in 2013 is the 2013 Ermitage le Pavillon. Coming from the west and eastern edges of the Bessards lieu-dit and aged in 30% new French oak, its sensational black/blue color is followed by the awesome bouquet of cassis, smoked earth, graphite and caramelized meats that could come from no other terroir in the world. Full-bodied, massive, dense, sexy and with a liquid rock-like character that comes out with time in the glass, it has sweet tannin and a blockbuster finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. It needs 5-6 years of cellaring and will have 30-40 years of more of ultimate longevity.”
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“Bravo!”
Delas Freres Hermitage Les Bessards, Rhône 2015 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The top cuvée from Delas is the 2015 Hermitage Les Bessards, and it’s always 100% Syrah from the steep, broken granite soils of the Bessards lieu-dit. Aged 18 months in 30% new barrels, its purple/plum color is followed by a huge nose of blackcurrants, graphite, toasted spice, crushed rocks and saddle leather. Powerful, massively concentrated, and tannic, it has a broad, expansive, heavenly texture, a thick mid-palate (you could almost use a fork for this beauty), and a great finish. Despite the richness level, it stays balanced and graceful on the palate, and is never over the top or heavy. It’s a perfect Hermitage that will start to shine with 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for three decades or more. Bravo!”
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“A beauty”
Paul Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage La Chapelle, Rhône 2016 750ML ($269.95) $225 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The 2016 Hermitage La Chapelle is slightly denser than the 2017 and is a bigger, richer, more structured wine than the La Maison Bleue. Crème de cassis, blackberries, crushed rocks, ozone, scorched earth, and violet notes all emerge from this beautifully classic, elegant, seamless wine that carries full-bodied richness, building tannins, and a big finish, all while staying in the classic, elegant, balanced style of the vintage. It has plenty of tannins and is a quintessential La Chapelle that will have three decades of longevity.”
James Suckling 97-98 points “Very spicy and peppery with blue-granite aromas plus hints of grilled and smoked meat. Cloves and nutmeg. Full body, round and juicy tannins and a super spicy finish that almost burns with so much character yet turns fine and focused at the end. A beauty.”
Sleek, pure & focused
M. Chapoutier Ermitage l’Ermite, Rhône 2013 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 97 points “Sleek, with mouthwatering flavors of red currant, raspberry and cherry preserves forming the core, while a dusting of cocoa, a snap of red licorice and a long, lingering iron spine complete the picture. Very pure and focused. The minerality wins out in the end. Best from 2019 through 2032. 29 cases imported.”
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Southern Rhône
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“One of the wines of the vintage”
Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides, Rhône 2018 750ML 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 10 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.”
“Wow!”
Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Poste, Rhône 2018 750ML ($134.95) $119 special, 7 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.”
Wine Advocate 96-98 points “Given the intensity of every cuvée at this estate, I was blown away by the elegance shown by the 2018 Gigondas le Poste. Violet and aniseed aromas accent plum and black cherry fruit, while this full-bodied wine is creamy-velvety in texture, with a long, silky finish that folds in distinct salted-licorice notes. Wow!”
Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides, Rhône 2018 750ML 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 10 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.”
“Wow!”
Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Poste, Rhône 2018 750ML ($134.95) $119 special, 7 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.”
Wine Advocate 96-98 points “Given the intensity of every cuvée at this estate, I was blown away by the elegance shown by the 2018 Gigondas le Poste. Violet and aniseed aromas accent plum and black cherry fruit, while this full-bodied wine is creamy-velvety in texture, with a long, silky finish that folds in distinct salted-licorice notes. Wow!”
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Love Rhône reds? We have over 150 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Domaine de l’Oiselet, Vincent Paris, Yves Cuilleron and more, on our web store now.
Collector’s Corner
E. Pira’s Compelling Barolo
E. Pira’s Compelling Barolo
“Year in, year out Chiara Boschis quietly makes some of the most compelling wines in Barolo without getting either the attention or recognition of some of her neighbors.” – Antonio Galloni
In Stock Now:
#33 – James Suckling’s Top 100 Wines of the Year
E. Pira & Figli Chiara Boschis Cannubi, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 22 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 99 points “Impressive roses and finely ground spices with a bright red-cherry core, as well as a fresh wild-herb thread. The sense of focus and purity here is stunning. The palate has a deeply juicy and fresh core of tightly knit tannins that carry immense power with impeccable balance. Elegantly executed wine with profound length. Try from 2025.”
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E. Pira & Figli Chiara Boschis Mosconi, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “Aromatic depth here, drawing you in with cascading layers of flowers and leaves, fresh-tilled earth laced with woody spices, white pepper and fresh red fruit. The palate carries a very sturdy frame of fine, dense tannins. This is placed in the top league of 2015 Barolo wines. Long and succulent build through the finish. Try from 2024.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “All of the wines from Chiara Boschis are more vinous this year, more natural. They feel authentic, genuine and traditional. They show an extra degree of richness or texture, and the 2015 Barolo Mosconi is no exception. Its dark and spicy notes are very polished and graceful in this vintage but with considerable tightness to the tannins that will soften with time. This wine offers ample volume and girth, but it carries its weight with elegance. Once the bottle has reached maturity, it would be a great pairing match to rabbit.”
E. Pira & Figli Chiara Boschis Via Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($99.95) $69 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “This delivers a fresh and vibrant impression on the nose with ripe red cherries and a deep-set, rose perfume. The palate has impressive power and focus with chiseled, driving tannins that cut a straight line of pure, red and black-cherry flavor. Long and assertive in 2015. Try this from 2023.”
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Once again, the 2015 Barolo Via Nuova shows why the blending of several sites was the approach favored by Barolo producers until the 1960s, when the fascination for single-vineyard wines started to take off. Maybe the old-times knew something after all. Silky and fragrant, with exceptional balance, the 2015 is positively striking. Medium in body and layered, the 2015 has a very bright future. What a gorgeous wine it is. The Via Nuova was aged in equal parts cask and barrique.”
Love Barolo? We have over 75 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Burlotto, Cappellano, Vietti and more, on our web store now.
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