In Today’s Newsletter:
Be a Friend/Tell a Friend
Oregon March Shipping Special
2017 Janasse VV – A Legendary Wine at Legendary Pricing
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
Back Vintages from Rasa Vineyards
Top Washington Wines Straight from the Winery Cellar
Don’t Forget Our Local Pride Subscriber Sale
Sequitur & Twill – Mix and Match
Trending
Italian Edition
Previously Sold Out – Re-Arriving Next Month
Grand Veneur’s Perfect ’16 Chateauneuf VV
Rose of the Day
Staff Pick
Showing Canned Wine Some Love
Collector’s Corner
Rene Leclerc’s Stunning Gevrey-Chambertin
Be a Friend/Tell a Friend
About Our Oregon March Shipping Special
Free Oregon Ground Shipping on Orders Over $120
Looking for our great deals and shipping specials to continue? Tell a friend who’s not on our email list to take advantage of this great offer and keep us busy in these unusual times!
2017 Janasse V.V.
A Legendary Wine at Legendary Pricing
Janasse is one of the half-dozen benchmark modern producers of Chateauneuf du Pape, though Eric Solomon, their importer, points out that they have a style all their own. He says “In attempting to describe the wines at Janasse one is confronted with the inadequacies in using ‘style’ to express their qualities. While there is a modern facet to the richness of the fruit, it is beautifully paired with a pronounced sense of place and complexity.”
We agree—there are both lushly approachable and also redolent of the unique terroir of Chateauneuf. The Vieilles Vignes is the flagship of the lineup, one of the most powerful and intense bottlings from the appellation. We just acquired a few cases of the 2017 at incredible pricing—fully $40 per bottle less than the 2016 (which sold out in a heartbeat when we had it in). This wine is not far off the ’16 in terms of quality (witness the Jeb Dunnuck and Wine Advocate reviews) and that price gap seems ludicrous. We were only able to get 29 bottles at this price, so grab it while you can.
Arriving Friday:
Only twenty-nine bottles available
Domaine de la Janasse Cuvee Vieilles Vignes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is another killer effort from this estate. Coming from the La Janasse and La Crau lieux-dits and brought up in foudre, its deep purple color is followed by blockbuster notes of crème de cassis, blackberries, chocolate, graphite, and earthy, rocky, mineral-like nuances. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a ripe, powerful yet balanced style and a great finish. A classic example of this cuvée. it’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for two decades or more.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes derives from parcels planted on classic clay and galets roulés soils. It’s 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other varieties. Tight, intense, even clenched, it’s in need of several years’ cellaring before it becomes truly enjoyable to drink. For now, those gorgeous black cherries are restrained behind a firm wall of tannins. Full-bodied and rich, this is ripe, it just requires patience.-JC”
We agree—there are both lushly approachable and also redolent of the unique terroir of Chateauneuf. The Vieilles Vignes is the flagship of the lineup, one of the most powerful and intense bottlings from the appellation. We just acquired a few cases of the 2017 at incredible pricing—fully $40 per bottle less than the 2016 (which sold out in a heartbeat when we had it in). This wine is not far off the ’16 in terms of quality (witness the Jeb Dunnuck and Wine Advocate reviews) and that price gap seems ludicrous. We were only able to get 29 bottles at this price, so grab it while you can.
Arriving Friday:
Only twenty-nine bottles available
Domaine de la Janasse Cuvee Vieilles Vignes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is another killer effort from this estate. Coming from the La Janasse and La Crau lieux-dits and brought up in foudre, its deep purple color is followed by blockbuster notes of crème de cassis, blackberries, chocolate, graphite, and earthy, rocky, mineral-like nuances. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a ripe, powerful yet balanced style and a great finish. A classic example of this cuvée. it’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for two decades or more.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes derives from parcels planted on classic clay and galets roulés soils. It’s 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other varieties. Tight, intense, even clenched, it’s in need of several years’ cellaring before it becomes truly enjoyable to drink. For now, those gorgeous black cherries are restrained behind a firm wall of tannins. Full-bodied and rich, this is ripe, it just requires patience.-JC”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Also Arriving Friday:
Only seven bottles available
Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Chaupin, Rhone 2017 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “Deeper colored, the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Chaupin comes mostly from the Chaupoin lieu-dit yet always has small parts from La Janasse and a sandy part of the La Crau lieu-dit. Blackberries, ground herbs, graphite, and new leather notes all emerge from this concentrated, rich, powerful wine that stays tight, focused, and elegant on the palate. It’s a killer wine, but it’s going to need time.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The all-Grenache 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin is sourced from sandy soils and ages in a combination of foudres and demi-muids. It shows more structure than the regular cuvée, supporting the ripe raspberry and blackberry fruit with bright acids and velvety tannins. Full-bodied and rich, it’s long, picking up hints of licorice on the finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
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.)
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
Back Vintages from Rasa Vineyards
Top Washington Wines Straight from the Winery Cellar
Rasa vineyards is one of the under the radar stars in Walla Walla, producing a breathtaking array of wines that are among the best in the state. Their name is one of the most common to pop up when we ask Walla Walla insiders and winemakers for their favorite lesser-known wineries.
If you need any convincing, let these two wines, direct from the winery cellars, do it for you. Rasa prides itself on how well its wines age and these two (at nine and ten years old) make a beautiful case for stocking up. We have great prices on both and they arrive on Friday.
Arriving Friday, March 27th:
Rasa Vineyards ‘In Order To Form A More Perfect Union’ Red, Columbia Valley 2010 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “A step up, the 2010 In Order to Form a More Perfect Union is a decadent blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that was aged in 60% new French oak. Offering up a hedonistically bent bouquet of black currant, smoked herbs, espresso, black olive and lead pencil shavings, it bursts onto the palate with a full-bodied, thick and voluptuous texture that partially conceals sound back-end concentration and structure. Give it 2-4 years and enjoy over the following decade or longer. Drink now-2025.-JD”
Rasa Vineyards ‘QED’ Convergence, Walla Walla Valley 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 92 points “(a blend of 71% syrah, 14% grenache and 12% mourvedre; fermented mostly with wild yeasts): Good bright red. Lovely perfume of red cherry, rose petal and spices. Juicy, spicy and supple, with enticing floral lift to the red berry, cherry and spice flavors. Creamy and ripe but with a very restrained sweetness. A politely styled Rhone blend but Billo Naravane says the animal character will come.”
If you need any convincing, let these two wines, direct from the winery cellars, do it for you. Rasa prides itself on how well its wines age and these two (at nine and ten years old) make a beautiful case for stocking up. We have great prices on both and they arrive on Friday.
Arriving Friday, March 27th:
Rasa Vineyards ‘In Order To Form A More Perfect Union’ Red, Columbia Valley 2010 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “A step up, the 2010 In Order to Form a More Perfect Union is a decadent blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that was aged in 60% new French oak. Offering up a hedonistically bent bouquet of black currant, smoked herbs, espresso, black olive and lead pencil shavings, it bursts onto the palate with a full-bodied, thick and voluptuous texture that partially conceals sound back-end concentration and structure. Give it 2-4 years and enjoy over the following decade or longer. Drink now-2025.-JD”
Rasa Vineyards ‘QED’ Convergence, Walla Walla Valley 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 92 points “(a blend of 71% syrah, 14% grenache and 12% mourvedre; fermented mostly with wild yeasts): Good bright red. Lovely perfume of red cherry, rose petal and spices. Juicy, spicy and supple, with enticing floral lift to the red berry, cherry and spice flavors. Creamy and ripe but with a very restrained sweetness. A politely styled Rhone blend but Billo Naravane says the animal character will come.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Don’t Forget Our Local Pride Subscriber Sale
Sequitur & Twill – Mix and Match
Local Pride Subscriber Special:
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
Sequitur
It’s helpful to think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Freres over the decade. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Freres “Upper Terrace” but is planted to a wider array of clones at tighter spacing. It’s been farmed biodynamically since the beginning and is sheltered with Douglas Fir—in short, it’s the fully realized vision of a man who’s helped define Willamette Valley Pinot.
We’ve been big supporters of these wines since the very beginning of the project and our special relationship allows us to offer you verticals of both the Sequitur Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at exceptional pricing. We’re making that pricing even better for you, our email subscribers, until we close for business on Thursday.
Some Highlights, In Stock Now from Sequitur:
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 26 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Deep brilliant red. A strikingly complex bouquet evokes ripe, mineral-accented red berries, cherry cola, vanilla, five-spice powder and sandalwood. Alluringly sweet, seamless and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry liqueur, spicecake and lavender pastille flavors that are given spine and lift by a core of juicy acidity. Delivers a compelling blend of power and delicacy and finishes extremely long and smooth; rounded tannins frame the lingering red fruit preserve notes.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “Pale to medium ruby purple in color, the 2015 Sequitur Pinot Noir has a very provocative nose of Bing cherries and cranberries over a core of red roses, game, yeast extract and underbrush. Medium-bodied, with wonderful energy and freshness, it has a lively backbone and long finish paved with very fine, ripe tannins.”
Winery note “Sequitur 2015 Pinot Noir “Two fold,” a collaboration between our Mother, the earth, those of us who “play” in the vineyard and winery, and you, the wine lover.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average listed price is $100
Now it’s even lower!
The average listed price is $100
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Lurid red. Spice-tinged blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola, incense and smoky minerals. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry and spicecake flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and mocha that build with air. Concentrated but also vibrant and precise in style, delivering superb finishing cut, well-knit tannins and impressive, fruit-driven persistence. (30% new French oak).”
Nick Stock –JamesSuckling 96 points “Beautifully deep, blueberries and plums on offer with notes of fresh violets and moist, fresh-tilled earth. This is full of life and very pure. The palate has focused and fresh tannins that sit in very vibrant style with a deep push of concentrated blue fruit, holding the finish in superb style. So fresh and long, this will age well. Drink across the next decade or more.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Lurid red. Spice-tinged blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola, incense and smoky minerals. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry and spicecake flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and mocha that build with air. Concentrated but also vibrant and precise in style, delivering superb finishing cut, well-knit tannins and impressive, fruit-driven persistence. (30% new French oak).”
Nick Stock –JamesSuckling 96 points “Beautifully deep, blueberries and plums on offer with notes of fresh violets and moist, fresh-tilled earth. This is full of life and very pure. The palate has focused and fresh tannins that sit in very vibrant style with a deep push of concentrated blue fruit, holding the finish in superb style. So fresh and long, this will age well. Drink across the next decade or more.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $89.99
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $89.99
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 Displayed Price, that’s $65.55 at 5% off or $62.10 at 10% off, 16 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2015 Sequitur Chardonnay delivers toasted almonds, baker’s yeast, fresh ginger and coriander seed on the nose with a core of grapefruit, white peaches and spiced apples. Light to medium-bodied, it gives a great intensity of savory flavor layers intermingled with stone fruit and citrus notions, finishing long with great freshness and mineral notes.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Twill Cellars
Ask an established Willamette Valley winemaker who their favorite up & coming estates are, and you’ll invariably hear about Twill Cellars. Chris Dickson, one of the genuinely nicest guys we know, crafts unassumingly beautiful and profound wines for this relatively new winery. The Pinots are charming and lithe yet expressive. But the true magic is in the Syrah. He’s a Northern Rhone enthusiast and it shows in his wines that crackle with energy, showing notes of black pepper, violets, smoke and olives. These are aromatics that you’d expect from fine St Joseph or Crozes-Hermitage, but these are all Oregon, baby. He’s a producer on the rise and to help you explore, we’re including Twill Cellars in our Local Pride sale.
Local Pride Subscriber Special:
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
Highlights In Stock Now from Twill Cellars:
Twill Cellars Johan Vineyard Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off or $29.70 at 10% off, 5 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Aromas of lemon blossom, tangerine, salt, peach, crushed rock are complemented with undertones of fresh cream, lime and passion fruit. On the palate, notes of tangerine, and meyer lemon are wrapped up in a savory, bright, and chewy yet lithe frame. The finish carries on with an echo of minerals, cream, and citrus.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Twill Cellars Johan Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off or $29.70 at 10% off 4 bottles in stock now
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Twill Cellars Syrah, Oregon 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 Displayed Price, that’s $20.81 at 5% off or $19.71 at 10% off, 6 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Licorice, olive paste, black pepper, and huckleberry are immediate on the aromatics. In time, black raspberry, ground coffee and baker’s chocolate are evident with light notes of allspice, grapefruit, and lavender in the background. On the palate, this wine is savory, bright and elegant.”
That’s the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Twill Cellars Steelhead Run Vineyard Syrah, Applegate Valley 2016 750ML ($39.95) $36 Displayed Price, that’s $34.20 at 5% off or $32.40 at 10% off, 13 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points
Decanter 93 points
That’s the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Local Pride Subscriber Special:
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
Trending
Italian Edition
What a wine! Altesino’s Riserva’s are always stunning bottles, especially from great vintages.
Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 98 points “($150) This delivers intense balsamic notes of juniper, wild rosemary and sage, along with rose, cherry and berry aromas and flavors. Elegant and saturated with flavor, supported by a vibrant structure. Ends with energy and refined tannins. Best from 2022 through 2040. 750 cases made.”
Ian D’Agata 94+ points “Deep red. Captivating floral nuances complement red cherry, mineral and tobacco elements on the nose and on the very suave palate. Surprisingly light-bodied for a Brunello Riserva, but perfumed and very refined. This outstanding Brunello Riserva boasts a finish that lasts and lasts.”
A great value white, fresh and easy.
Elvio Tintero Langhe Arneis, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer note “From 10 year old vines grown on rocky clay and limestone soils. A fresh, easy, and fun wine to drink with friends.”
Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 98 points “($150) This delivers intense balsamic notes of juniper, wild rosemary and sage, along with rose, cherry and berry aromas and flavors. Elegant and saturated with flavor, supported by a vibrant structure. Ends with energy and refined tannins. Best from 2022 through 2040. 750 cases made.”
Ian D’Agata 94+ points “Deep red. Captivating floral nuances complement red cherry, mineral and tobacco elements on the nose and on the very suave palate. Surprisingly light-bodied for a Brunello Riserva, but perfumed and very refined. This outstanding Brunello Riserva boasts a finish that lasts and lasts.”
A great value white, fresh and easy.
Elvio Tintero Langhe Arneis, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer note “From 10 year old vines grown on rocky clay and limestone soils. A fresh, easy, and fun wine to drink with friends.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
This is one of the steals of the 2016 vintage—powerful and ageworthy for under $30.
Piaggia “Il Sasso”, Carmignano DOCG 2016 750ML ($37.95) $29 special, 29 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93 points “Dedicated to the estate’s paternal figure Mauro Vannucci, the 2016 Carmignano Il Sasso (with 40,000 bottles produced) is a compelling blend of 70% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. This vintage delivers ample power, yet the wine remains smooth and elegant from a tactile point of view. Sangiovese’s identity emerges with aromas of wild berry, tilled earth and rose hip. The two international grapes serve to shape the firmness and structure of the mouthfeel. This wine is fermented in oak and later aged in medium-toast neutral barrique for 12 months.-ML”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2016 Carmignano Il Sasso is a veritable explosion of aromas, flavors and textures. A rush of dark red and purplish berry fruit makes a strong opening statement. The interplay of rich fruit, expressive aromatics and brightness makes for a wonderfully complete, vibrant Carmignano that will be impossible to resist upon release. The 2016 is a wine of pure and total pleasure.”
Utterly classic, as always.
G. B. Burlotto Barbera d’Alba, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Fresh and savory, this opens with aromas of dark berry, ground cooking spice and whiff of chopped herb. The vibrant palate doles out juicy black cherry, clove, star anise and blood orange accompanied by racy acidity.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Is there a better pizza night wine out there?
La Fortuna Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Its burgundy red colour and intriguing acidity opens to the sense of smell with strong fruity flavours; intense and fascinating, spicy, it maintains a well-constructed pleasant taste, full and plain, velvety and smooth.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
The 2013 crus are still some of the best the Produttori has ever made.
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 97 points– Cellar Selection “Still young but already boasting extraordinary pedigree, this fantastic wine opens with hallmark scents of wild berry, new leather, chopped herb, tilled soil and a whiff of violet. The polished, full-bodied palate delivers juicy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and licorice while youthfully assertive, noble tannins and bright acidity provide age-worthy structure. A pipe tobacco note lingers on the finish. Drink 2023–2038.”
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “The Barbaresco Riserva Montefico shows all the energy and focus that is typical of this great site, but there is so much depth to the fruit that some of the more angular contours have been softened. Bright saline-infused notes lead to wild flowers and an exotic melange of red fruits in this beautifully delineated, vivid Barbaresco. All the elements are simply in the right place.”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 96+ points “I am absolutely impressed by the stunning 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico. The Montefico growing site is very small and only 13,000 bottles are produced as a result. There are just three farmers who tend to this vineyard cru, and because their respective plots are very small, they rely on the Produttori del Barbaresco co-operative model for survival. This wine shows amazing depth and enlarged dimension. Aromas of black fruit, spice, tar and crushed mineral contribute to the considerable volume and power of the wine. That precise and focused mineral definition is outstanding, recalling brimstone and pencil shavings. Montefico can underperform in the hot vintages, but it hits all the high notes in the cooler 2013.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “This beefy red evokes cherry, licorice, herb, mineral and tobacco aromas and flavors. Rich and densely structured, with iron, tobacco and cherry notes lingering on the long finish. Best from 2023 through 2035.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $93
Looking for a bottle of Barolo to drink now? The ’09’s from Aldo Conterno are singing.
Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia Cicala, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($179.95) $119 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Aromas of fresh cherry, raspberry, licorice and spice fill the glass as this red unfolds. Offers dense tannins and bright acidity, lending definition to the cherry, strawberry, tobacco and spice flavors that persist through the long finish. Best from 2017 through 2030. 300 cases imported.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “An aromatically beguiling wine, the 2009 Barolo Cicala is laced with dark plums, truffles, tar, incense and a host of other balsamic-infused aromas. Today, the fruit lies a bit in the background, while the wine’s aromatics and overall structure are much more in evidence. I imagine the 2009 will require at least a few more years in bottle to flesh out, but it is quite beautiful, even at this stage. There is a weightless tension in the 2009 that is remarkable.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2009 Barolo Cicala reveals the particular dynamic of the vintage with firmly astringent tannins and power coupled with a leaner, more streamlined mouthfeel. You can also feel some of the heat of the 2009 summer with upfront aromas of prune and cassis followed by a visibly darker appearance and sweet spice on the bouquet. The wine has the inherent complexity, structure and acidity for long aging, but it offers less pulp to sink your teeth into. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
L.E.G.E.N.D.
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($499.95) $419 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Cappellano Otin Fiorin Pie Rupestris, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($499.95) $419 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Previously Sold Out
Re-Arriving Next Month
Grand Veneur’s Perfect ’16 Chateauneuf VV
Alain Jaume’s Domaine Grand Veneur is a trailblazer in Chateauneuf du Pape that continues to make some of the finest wines in the appellation. These are some of the most dramatic, powerful and opulent bottlings made in the Southern Rhone today and the prices they charge make them a steal compared to their nearest competitors.
Grand Veneur was one of the first in the region to use new oak barrels and consistently use more Syrah and Mourvèdre to than many of their peers, resulting in wines that have more color and power than wines that driven by Grenache for their character. The flagship is clearly the Vieilles Vignes—a wine that is on par with Clos de Papes, Janasse’s “XXL” and Clos St. Jean’s top cuvees, but is still less than $120 a bottle—for now.
We just secured a restock on the previously sold-out 2016—a perfect wine according to Jeb Dunnuck. This absolute masterpiece arrives next month in limited quantities, so grab it while you see it.
Arriving ETA April:
Only fifteen bottles available.
Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes, Rhone 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is up with the crème de la crème of the vintage and in the same league as the perfect 2010. Awesome notes of blackberries, crème de cassis, charred meats, licorice, and violets all soar from the glass. It’s powerful, opulent, and structured, with building tannin, a huge mid-palate, and a blockbuster finish, yet it never loses its sense of purity and elegance. It’s an incredible achievement from this estate. The blend is 45% Grenache, 45% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah, all aged in 55% new French oak.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “A terrific effort, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah. It’s dense and rich almost beyond belief, packed with super ripe fruit that comes dangerously close to being chocolaty and fudge-like, yet it retains a sense of balance. Earth, spice and dark fruit notes linger for minutes on the long, tannic finish. Give it at least a couple of years in the cellar, and drink it over the next decade and a half. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.-JC”
Grand Veneur was one of the first in the region to use new oak barrels and consistently use more Syrah and Mourvèdre to than many of their peers, resulting in wines that have more color and power than wines that driven by Grenache for their character. The flagship is clearly the Vieilles Vignes—a wine that is on par with Clos de Papes, Janasse’s “XXL” and Clos St. Jean’s top cuvees, but is still less than $120 a bottle—for now.
We just secured a restock on the previously sold-out 2016—a perfect wine according to Jeb Dunnuck. This absolute masterpiece arrives next month in limited quantities, so grab it while you see it.
Arriving ETA April:
Only fifteen bottles available.
Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes, Rhone 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is up with the crème de la crème of the vintage and in the same league as the perfect 2010. Awesome notes of blackberries, crème de cassis, charred meats, licorice, and violets all soar from the glass. It’s powerful, opulent, and structured, with building tannin, a huge mid-palate, and a blockbuster finish, yet it never loses its sense of purity and elegance. It’s an incredible achievement from this estate. The blend is 45% Grenache, 45% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah, all aged in 55% new French oak.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “A terrific effort, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah. It’s dense and rich almost beyond belief, packed with super ripe fruit that comes dangerously close to being chocolaty and fudge-like, yet it retains a sense of balance. Earth, spice and dark fruit notes linger for minutes on the long, tannic finish. Give it at least a couple of years in the cellar, and drink it over the next decade and a half. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.-JC”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Can’t Wait? Check out these fantastic wines from Domaine Grand Veneur, in stock now:
Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Le Miocene Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Case-6 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Le Miocene Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “The traditional cuvée at this great estate is the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Le Miocene, and in 2017 it’s a classic blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre, brought up mostly in concrete (there’s a small amount in older barrels). It has a wonderful fresh, forward, delicious style as well as notes of black raspberries, garrigue, pepper, and hints of flowers. Pure, medium to full-bodied, upfront and ready to go, it’s a beauty geared for drinking over the coming 8-10 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $45
The next best price is $45
Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes, Rhone 2017 750ML ($119.95) $89 special
Case-6 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes, Rhone 2017 750ML ($719.95) $479 special (that’s only $79.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a bigger, richer, more opulent wine. Beautiful notes of blackcurrants, scorched earth, graphite, and crushed violets, all flow to a full-bodied, Châteauneuf Du Pape that has a voluptuous, sexy texture, brilliant depth of fruit, fine tannins, and a purity of fruit that’s hard to find in this vintage. It’s a thrill a minute, and while it’s approachable today, it will keep for 15-20 years. 416 cases.”
Decanter 96 points “Grown on galets, the fruit for this wine is all destemmed and fermented in stainless steel before being aged for 16 months, half in concrete and half in new barriques. The strong Mourvèdre component comes through as deep, ripe dark fruits and violets. It’s full-bodied and dense with soft, lush tannins, and is held together by a beam of strong acidity, finishing long. A lithe, muscular, impressive wine that will last the course. Just 5,000 bottles made.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $104
The average listed price is $104
Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Origines, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $52.50 special
Case-6 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Origines, Rhone 2017 750ML ($419.95) $289 special (that’s only $48.17/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 95+ points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Origines takes things up a notch on the serious scale and has a much more concentrated, focused, structured style. A blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah that saw 50% new barrels, it offers a rich, concentrated, focused texture, notes of black raspberries, roasted garrigue, pepper, and tons of minerality, building tannins, and outstanding length. The new oak is beautifully integrated, it’s perfectly balanced, and it’s one of those wines that has a kiss of modern character yet stays firmly planted in the Southern Rhône.”
Case-6 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Origines, Rhone 2017 750ML ($419.95) $289 special (that’s only $48.17/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 95+ points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Origines takes things up a notch on the serious scale and has a much more concentrated, focused, structured style. A blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah that saw 50% new barrels, it offers a rich, concentrated, focused texture, notes of black raspberries, roasted garrigue, pepper, and tons of minerality, building tannins, and outstanding length. The new oak is beautifully integrated, it’s perfectly balanced, and it’s one of those wines that has a kiss of modern character yet stays firmly planted in the Southern Rhône.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Rose of the Day
The Saint-Ser rosé, from Provence, has been a Vinopolis favorite for several years. It’s classically Provencal, with a bright, crisp disposition. We love everything about it except the name—when customers come in and ask for it (which happens fairly often) it can be hard to know whether they’re looking for Saint-Ser or Sancerre. Despite the confusion, it’s a wine we love to carry every year. If you buy it online, you don’t have to worry about how to say it, either.
In Stock Now
Domaine de Saint Ser Cotes de Provence Tradition Rose 2018 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special
“A unique blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and a touch of Rolle grapes give this wine an unusually complex aroma. Each grape variety contributes its own note: a red-berry aroma from the Grenache, the finesse of the Cinsault, the intensity of the Syrah, and a hint of citrus from the Rolle.”–Winery Notes
In Stock Now
Domaine de Saint Ser Cotes de Provence Tradition Rose 2018 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special
“A unique blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and a touch of Rolle grapes give this wine an unusually complex aroma. Each grape variety contributes its own note: a red-berry aroma from the Grenache, the finesse of the Cinsault, the intensity of the Syrah, and a hint of citrus from the Rolle.”–Winery Notes
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Want to see all 50+ rosé options, in stock and arriving soon? Just head to our webstore for the full list.
Staff Pick
Showing Canned Wine Some Love
Showing Canned Wine Some Love
Nina:
With Spring around the corner, Broc Cellars Love Rose and White cans are the perfect accompaniment for your excursions to the beach, picnics in the park, or long trail hikes.
The Broc Love Rose is very aromatic, the palate full and textured, exhibiting tart strawberry, fresh watermelon and grapefruit skins. The finish is bright and crisp, making this a delicious and refreshing Rose for almost any occasion.
The Broc Love White is surprisingly complex, showing spicy aromas and flavors of Bartlet pear skins and ginger, with citrus fruits, predominantly lemon, persisting on the finish. There is a subtle stoney/mineral element that lifts this fruit-forward Rhone blend, giving way to lovely structure. This would be a wonderful wine to pair with pate, hard cheeses, or just sipping by itself on a warm sunny day.
In Stock Now:
Broc Cellars Love White, California 2018 375ML CAN ($14.95) $9.90 special, 19 half-bottle sized cans in stock now
Winery note “Varietal: 43% Marsanne, 28% Rousanne, 17% Grenache Blanc, 12% Picpoul. Vineyard: Love Ranch. Location: Madera Foothills, CA. ALCOHOL: 12%. WINEMAKER’S NOTES: The grapes were harvested during the third week of August to help preserve their natural acidity. All varieties were fermented separately and aged in a neutral French oak barrels for 8 months with no S02. Malolactic fermentation was allowed to happen naturally. For the 2018 vintage we added Picpoul grapes that we grafted on some Roussanne vines at Love Ranch using cuttings we received from Rorick Vineyards a couple years ago. We are very happy the Picpoul was added to the blend this year.”
Broc Cellars Love Rose, California 2019 375ML CAN ($14.95) $9.90 special, 19 half-bottle sized cans in stock now
80% Valdiguié, 14% Zinfandel, 6% Trousseau from the Solano Vineyard (Valdiguié), Arrowhead Mountain (Zinfandel), Wirth Vineyard (Trousseau). “The wine is not spritzy, just a little prickly” –Chris Brocway
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Collector’s Corner
Rene Leclerc’s Stunning Gevrey-Chambertin
Rene Leclerc’s Stunning Gevrey-Chambertin
Domaine Rene Leclerc is one of the venerable names in Gevrey-Chambertin. Founded in 1962, the family domaine is now owned and run jointly by Rene and his son Francois. Their passion is for wine of purity and balance, a hands-off style that allows the fruit to fully express the magnificent terroir of the region. What follows is a long, traditional fermentation in stainless steel tanks with natural yeasts.
The resulting wines display the classic Gevrey-Chamberin notes of red and black berries, chocolate, game and spice as they sit in the glass. These are as classically Gevrey-Chambertin as they come—in fact, you’d do well to think of these as a poor(er)-man’s Rousseau. Even their top-tier Griotte is under $200/bottle from a great vintage and their Combes aux Moines represents one of the best values in premier cru Burgundy from the Cote de Nuits. We’ve got a nice assortment coming at the end of the month—perfect for collectors looking to stock up.
Arriving ETA April:
Only five bottles available!
Domaine Rene Leclerc Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2005 750ML ($199.95) $179 pre-arrival special
Burghound 91-93 points “A classic and wonderfully expansive Griotte nose of remarkable breadth that includes ripe red cherry fruit, anise and clove, underbrush and warm earth notes that introduce delicious, round, generous and sweet flavors that culminate in a firm, complex and beautifully long finish. This is, at its essence, a wine of finesse as well yet there is enough muscle and punch that it’s not understated.”
The resulting wines display the classic Gevrey-Chamberin notes of red and black berries, chocolate, game and spice as they sit in the glass. These are as classically Gevrey-Chambertin as they come—in fact, you’d do well to think of these as a poor(er)-man’s Rousseau. Even their top-tier Griotte is under $200/bottle from a great vintage and their Combes aux Moines represents one of the best values in premier cru Burgundy from the Cote de Nuits. We’ve got a nice assortment coming at the end of the month—perfect for collectors looking to stock up.
Arriving ETA April:
Only five bottles available!
Domaine Rene Leclerc Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2005 750ML ($199.95) $179 pre-arrival special
Burghound 91-93 points “A classic and wonderfully expansive Griotte nose of remarkable breadth that includes ripe red cherry fruit, anise and clove, underbrush and warm earth notes that introduce delicious, round, generous and sweet flavors that culminate in a firm, complex and beautifully long finish. This is, at its essence, a wine of finesse as well yet there is enough muscle and punch that it’s not understated.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
See the complete list of Domaine Rene Leclerc Wines below or shop on our webstore!
