In Today’s Newsletter:
Collector’s Corner:
A Slew of Older, Rare Champagne
New Releases from Volpaia
Our Best Selling Chianti Producer
Staff Pick:
This is the Entry Level Wine?
New Deals on Petrolo’s Historic Sangiovese
The Best Dominus Since…?
New Grapelive Review for
Saint Cosme’s Chateau Rouanne
Subscriber Special Recap:
Piper Heidsieck and Continuum
A Dessert Steal from a Spanish Master
Delas: Northern Rhone Ambition
Collector’s Corner:
A Slew of Older, Rare Champagne
Arriving Tomorrow
Arriving Tuesday, June 24th:
Among true aficionados of Champagne Piper is best known for their top end “Rare” bottlings—wines with astounding complexity, depth and nuance that are among the most coveted in Champagne.
Only four bottles available
Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2002 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 97 points “Impeccably balanced and silky, with finely honed acidity shaping the expansive flavors of toasted brioche, crushed blackberry, lemon preserves and honey, revealing hints of Frangelico liqueur and smoked nut. Rich and vivid, with a lasting finish. Drink now through 2027. 2,500 cases made.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “A gorgeous wine that’s a legend in the making, the 2002 Rare Brut is a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, with just under 10 grams of dosage. Offering incredible notes of stone fruits, brioche, white flowers, and hints of toasted nuts, this flat out awesome wine is concentrated and opulent, yet still dances on the palate with vibrant acidity and great, great finish. It’s going to drink beautifully for another two to three decades. Bravo! This cuvee has only been made in 1976, 1979, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2002, and in 2007.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The pale gold, greenish shimmering 2002 Rare Millesime – 30% Pinot Noir and 70% Chardonnay – offers a very intense and rich, yet fresh nose of exotic fruit aromas of pineapples, mango, kiwi and passion fruit. On the palate, this is a mouthful of luscious Champagne: powerful and intense, but pure and with the complexity of matured wines. The finish is very exotic in its fruit aromas, but also persistently mineral.”
Decanter 95 points “Looks like becoming another legendary Piper in the same style and league as 1988, ’76 and ’55. Already focused and concentrated. Tough acids might scare some but sublime coffee and biscuity complexity is building up slowly. Sensual wine for all occasions.”
Taittinger Comtes Rose is one of those nearly impossible-to-find wines, especially with some bottle age. To secure six magnums of the ’00? Well, we’re the only source in the USA.
Only six magnums available
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Brut Rose, Champagne 2000 1.5L ($1199.95) $899 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Light pink. Spicy strawberry, redcurrant, blood orange and minerals on the nose, plus a hint of jasmine. Nervy, focused and light on its feet, with fresh red fruit and tangerine flavors underpinned by juicy acidity. The racy finish offers excellent lift and a lingering minerality. A rose of elegance more than power.”
This is the only listing for a magnum in the USA today!
De Venoge is one of the more overlooked old-school Champagne houses, a fact that means even their finest and rarest wines continue to be undervalued relative to their peers. Case in point? The Louis XV bottlings, which are held back on the lees for exceedingly long periods of time and true monuments of vintage bubbly.
De Venoge Louis XV Brut Millesime, Champagne 1996 750ML ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 96 points “This is really complex, old Champagne with puff-pastry, dried-apple, spice and salted-nut aromas and flavors. Full body. Ultra fine bubbles with an extremely fine and creamy mouth feel. Extreme edge to it. This spent 21 years on the lees. Disgorged in 2018. Every year they disgorge 3,000 bottles”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
De Venoge Louis XV Brut Millesime, Champagne 2008 750ML ($299.95) $249 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 95 points “This is really punchy and broad-shouldered with muscular structure and citrusy undertones. Full body. Lightly tannic and a fresh and vivid finish. This is the first vintage without malolactic fermentation ever. One for the cellar. Better in 2022.”
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The straw-yellow/white-golden colored 2008 Louis XV Brut Millésimé blends 50% Chardonnay (20 % from Avize, 15% from Oger and 15% from Mesnil) with 50% Pinot Noir (41.5% from Verzenay and 8.5% from Bouzy). Disgorged in January 2018 with a dosage of six grams per liter, the 2008 displays a clear, pure, fresh, chalky-tinged and vinous nose with lemon, white fruits, brioche, hazelnuts, white blossoms and some caramel notes. Pure, lean, fresh and elegant on the palate, with a lingering hazelnut flavor, this is a straight yet complex cuvée with grip and a long, well-structured and textured finish. This 2008 is still terribly fresh and should benefit from further bottle aging. For the moment, I am missing the mouth-filling generosity of the 2006 and 1995. Mind that this is the first vintage of de Venoge’s prestigious Louis XV where the base wines didn’t undergo malolactic fermentation! Total production: 10,326 bottles. Tasted October 2018.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
What needs to be said about Grand Siecle, especially from a vintage like 1990? One of the hallmark bottlings out there from one of the grandest vintages of the decade.
Only three bottles available
Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle Cuvee Millenaire, Champagne 1990 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 94 points ” Medium orange-gold color. Musky, wild aromas of strawberry, raspberry, smoke and earth; rather pinot noir-like and expressive of its soil. Rich, ripe and dense with material but not at all heavy; red berry flavors offer a compellingly tangy quality. Very concentrated and still very young. Finishes with superb lift and length.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Even the most “picky” houses declare 5-6 vintages a decade, but Heidsieck will only release this wine under the most perfect of circumstances (the last vintage released was the epic 1995). The resulting wine is powerful, intense but beyond elegant, as only Chardonnay given extended lees aging can provide
Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millenaires, Champagne 2004 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Decanter 98 points – World Wine Awards 2019 “This Blanc de Blancs Champagne is a bright morning gold in colour, with fine-seamed bubbles and rich, expressive and expansive aromas. Beaten cream, pounded hazels, a hint of baking apples, brioche fresh from the oven. But all these notes are drawn with great subtlety, underscoring the fruit quality of the Chardonnay vineyards used in this blend. On the palate, the wine retains all that aromatic grace and amplitude, marrying it to a shapely fruit presence, vibrant though now well-rounded acidity and textural charm, too. A head-turner. Drink 2019-2028.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “Disgorged in November 2017 after 13 years on the lees, the stunning 2004 Blanc des Millénaires is a worthy successor to the 1995. Unfurling in the glass with aromas of green apple, pear, brioche and fresh pastry that are framed by a lovely smoky, autolytic top note, the wine is full-bodied, ample and concentrated, with ripe acids, superb depth at the core and a textural, vinous quality while remaining very classical in profile. The finish is long and expansive. A blend of Chardonnay from Cramant, Avize, Oger, Mesnil-sur-Oger and Vertus, it saw nine grams per liter dosage. This is a terrific blanc de blancs from Charles Heidsieck that has a long and glorious future ahead of it. Sadly, the price of this cuvée has finally caught up with the quality.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “A seamless Champagne, showing a texture of raw silk, this weaves vibrant acidity with an expressive range of glazed apple and poached white cherry fruit flavors, with pickled ginger and saffron spice details and rich notes of pastry cream, toast and coffee liqueur. More about finesse than power, this is long and creamy on the mineral-tinged finish. Drink now through 2028. [Reviewed Dec 2018]”
[Disgorgement dates may vary from reviews]
New Releases from Volpaia
Our Best Selling Chianti Producer
We love the great wines of Tuscany—there’s something about the heart of Italy that’s utterly captivating. Perhaps no producer stands out more than Volpaia, whose high-altitude Chiantis have become perhaps our best-selling Chianti, year in and out. They first came to our attention for placing wines on the Wine Spectator Top 100 list over several years. Since then, their Chianti Classico and Riserva have become favorites for their big, bold personalities.
The new vintages have yet to be reviewed, but don’t let that stop you—better to get these while they’re on the shelves. The last two vintages of the Riserva scored 96 and 97 points from Wine Spectator and the ’17 looks like a more than worthy follow. The ’18 Classico is likewise fantastic and on the heels of a number of excellent reviews They arrive next week, perfect for summer BBQ’s.
Arriving ETA July 3rd:
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($299.95) $239 pre-arrival special (that’s only $19.92/bottle —the lowest listed price in the country!)
Importer Note “The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish. Barrel Aging: 12 months in Slavonian casks. March was warm, but April and May were very cold and rainy. Good weather started from June 10 to the end of the month. The beginning of July was very warm and dry. Intense warmth from mid-July to end of August, interspersed with some rain, guaranteed the right humidity for the soil. September and mid-October brought good weather with some scattered rain. Blooming was delayed for 10 days as well as flowering. In June, the vines started a sudden and vigorous development. Veraison began with some delay and continued fairly slowly. Harvest started a few days later compared to the previous years.”
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($41.95) $35.50 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($499.95) $385 pre-arrival special (that’s only $32.08/bottle!)
Importer Note “The Chianti Classico Riserva has a ruby-red hue with a trace of garnet. The nose is elegant, displaying hints of spice and fruit. This a well-structured wine with smooth tannins and a long finish. Barrel Aging: 24 months in oak casks (combination of Slovenian and French) and minimum 3 months in bottle. Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese. A record year for heat and drought throughout the growing season. This condition presented extremes which began early bud break in the vineyard, followed by a spring frost over late April. The frost affected the lower portions of the Volpaia estate. Spring and summer months were dry with higher than average temperatures. Rainfall in mid-September helped the grapes achieve complete ripeness of tannins and other phenolic compounds despite low yields.”
The new vintages have yet to be reviewed, but don’t let that stop you—better to get these while they’re on the shelves. The last two vintages of the Riserva scored 96 and 97 points from Wine Spectator and the ’17 looks like a more than worthy follow. The ’18 Classico is likewise fantastic and on the heels of a number of excellent reviews They arrive next week, perfect for summer BBQ’s.
Arriving ETA July 3rd:
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($299.95) $239 pre-arrival special (that’s only $19.92/bottle —the lowest listed price in the country!)
Importer Note “The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish. Barrel Aging: 12 months in Slavonian casks. March was warm, but April and May were very cold and rainy. Good weather started from June 10 to the end of the month. The beginning of July was very warm and dry. Intense warmth from mid-July to end of August, interspersed with some rain, guaranteed the right humidity for the soil. September and mid-October brought good weather with some scattered rain. Blooming was delayed for 10 days as well as flowering. In June, the vines started a sudden and vigorous development. Veraison began with some delay and continued fairly slowly. Harvest started a few days later compared to the previous years.”
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($41.95) $35.50 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($499.95) $385 pre-arrival special (that’s only $32.08/bottle!)
Importer Note “The Chianti Classico Riserva has a ruby-red hue with a trace of garnet. The nose is elegant, displaying hints of spice and fruit. This a well-structured wine with smooth tannins and a long finish. Barrel Aging: 24 months in oak casks (combination of Slovenian and French) and minimum 3 months in bottle. Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese. A record year for heat and drought throughout the growing season. This condition presented extremes which began early bud break in the vineyard, followed by a spring frost over late April. The frost affected the lower portions of the Volpaia estate. Spring and summer months were dry with higher than average temperatures. Rainfall in mid-September helped the grapes achieve complete ripeness of tannins and other phenolic compounds despite low yields.”
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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
Staff Pick
This is the Entry Level Wine?
Andy:
I was really surprised at how much I loved the freshness of the 17 St Jacques, After the 15 and 16 knocked me over with the intensity and alcohol that really seemed incongruous with the wine, I was so pleased to see how the floral notes and sun drenched red earth seemed to shine. The fruit was up front, not at all bashful, and yet still somehow light on its feet and full of life. There was an immediate pleasurable experience, and I could well have put a couple glasses away over dinner without thinking about it, but I held back and really tried to see where the difference lay.
The wine is 100 percent whole cluster, and has layers of different flavors and aromas to sift through. A mixed berry pie of raspberry, dark cherry, marionberry, with lavender and wild herbs. Coffee and some smoky tea notes swirling through as well. This is the ENTRY LEVEL wine? There is so much going on here that I could imagine this holding its own against the Valtuille, Vizcaina or Rapolao. A fraction of the price, with all of the winemaking skill included.
In Stock Now:
Raul Perez Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo, 2017 750ML ($22.95) $16.60 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 93 points “The clean, floral and 2017 Ultreia Saint Jacques comes mostly from old vineyards from different soils in Valtuille and Villadecanes fermented in stainless steel and oak vats with part of full clusters and matured in used barriques for one year. It’s produced in a fresh and very drinkable way. This is one of the best values from Bierzo and Spain, and a great introduction to Bierzo. It’s a more serious wine than what the wine was when it was first produced, fresh and elegant. It’s very reliable and a great value. There are some 100,000 bottles that were filled in two production runs.”
Grapelive 93 points “The awesomely priced Ultreia Saint Jacques Bierzo, from the famed Raul Perez, is a deep and full flavored wine with lovely balance and energy that shows off its old vine concentration and clay based soil terroir. This multi vineyard field blend style red from Bierzo’s Valtuille zone comes from vineyard plots ranging in age from 80 to 120 years old shows Mencia in a richer form than say the Ribeira Sacra, but the small bit of Bastardo (believed to be Trousseau) and Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) plus lots whole bunches keeps things well balanced and the fruit is contrasted by a light earthiness, savory notes, spice and mineral elements. This 2017 is ripe and dark fruited with bright blackberry, plum, currant and black cherry layers as well as snappy herbal notes, cedar and cinnamon all flowing in a rush of vivid flavors and authentic character. The vines, for all of Perez’s lineup are all organic, and for this one, were all hand tended and harvested with the oldest being from plants that date back to 1900 and the youngest from 1940, making for a wonderful regional expression of varietal character and a wine with a proud sense of place and being, it is also a fantastic gateway into Raul’s brilliant set of vinous glories. As mentioned here and across the world of wine, Raul Perez is a grand master of Mencia and the godfather of the Bierzo region with a huge impact on how this wine is seen, clearly defining what it is and should be.…This Ulteia Saint Jacques is one of Perez’s entry level bottlings, but you’d be hard pressed to find anything lacking here, though his upper end cru stuff is out of this world. The Saint Jacques was about 80% whole cluster and fermented with indigenous yeasts in large wooden vats with maceration(s) lasting between two and five months, which is a long cool period, which adds to the dimension in this beautiful Tinto. The wine, after primary is then rack to an assortment of vessels to age with a combination of French casks including 225L, 500L, foudre and with some of the wine seeing its elevage in cement cuve, after which the Saint Jacques was bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve every nuance and show the purity of this wine’s personality. I love this fresh and easy to drink young red, well I love all of Raul’s wines, but this one delivers so much for the price it is impossible to resist, drink with simple country dishes, hard cheeses and or BBQ. It’s hard to imagine a better deal on such quality old vine, medium bodied stuff!”
I was really surprised at how much I loved the freshness of the 17 St Jacques, After the 15 and 16 knocked me over with the intensity and alcohol that really seemed incongruous with the wine, I was so pleased to see how the floral notes and sun drenched red earth seemed to shine. The fruit was up front, not at all bashful, and yet still somehow light on its feet and full of life. There was an immediate pleasurable experience, and I could well have put a couple glasses away over dinner without thinking about it, but I held back and really tried to see where the difference lay.
The wine is 100 percent whole cluster, and has layers of different flavors and aromas to sift through. A mixed berry pie of raspberry, dark cherry, marionberry, with lavender and wild herbs. Coffee and some smoky tea notes swirling through as well. This is the ENTRY LEVEL wine? There is so much going on here that I could imagine this holding its own against the Valtuille, Vizcaina or Rapolao. A fraction of the price, with all of the winemaking skill included.
In Stock Now:
Raul Perez Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo, 2017 750ML ($22.95) $16.60 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 93 points “The clean, floral and 2017 Ultreia Saint Jacques comes mostly from old vineyards from different soils in Valtuille and Villadecanes fermented in stainless steel and oak vats with part of full clusters and matured in used barriques for one year. It’s produced in a fresh and very drinkable way. This is one of the best values from Bierzo and Spain, and a great introduction to Bierzo. It’s a more serious wine than what the wine was when it was first produced, fresh and elegant. It’s very reliable and a great value. There are some 100,000 bottles that were filled in two production runs.”
Grapelive 93 points “The awesomely priced Ultreia Saint Jacques Bierzo, from the famed Raul Perez, is a deep and full flavored wine with lovely balance and energy that shows off its old vine concentration and clay based soil terroir. This multi vineyard field blend style red from Bierzo’s Valtuille zone comes from vineyard plots ranging in age from 80 to 120 years old shows Mencia in a richer form than say the Ribeira Sacra, but the small bit of Bastardo (believed to be Trousseau) and Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) plus lots whole bunches keeps things well balanced and the fruit is contrasted by a light earthiness, savory notes, spice and mineral elements. This 2017 is ripe and dark fruited with bright blackberry, plum, currant and black cherry layers as well as snappy herbal notes, cedar and cinnamon all flowing in a rush of vivid flavors and authentic character. The vines, for all of Perez’s lineup are all organic, and for this one, were all hand tended and harvested with the oldest being from plants that date back to 1900 and the youngest from 1940, making for a wonderful regional expression of varietal character and a wine with a proud sense of place and being, it is also a fantastic gateway into Raul’s brilliant set of vinous glories. As mentioned here and across the world of wine, Raul Perez is a grand master of Mencia and the godfather of the Bierzo region with a huge impact on how this wine is seen, clearly defining what it is and should be.…This Ulteia Saint Jacques is one of Perez’s entry level bottlings, but you’d be hard pressed to find anything lacking here, though his upper end cru stuff is out of this world. The Saint Jacques was about 80% whole cluster and fermented with indigenous yeasts in large wooden vats with maceration(s) lasting between two and five months, which is a long cool period, which adds to the dimension in this beautiful Tinto. The wine, after primary is then rack to an assortment of vessels to age with a combination of French casks including 225L, 500L, foudre and with some of the wine seeing its elevage in cement cuve, after which the Saint Jacques was bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve every nuance and show the purity of this wine’s personality. I love this fresh and easy to drink young red, well I love all of Raul’s wines, but this one delivers so much for the price it is impossible to resist, drink with simple country dishes, hard cheeses and or BBQ. It’s hard to imagine a better deal on such quality old vine, medium bodied stuff!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
New Deals on Petrolo’s Historic Sangiovese
“Luca Sanjust of Fattoria Petrolo has long been working with extended skin macerations, amphorae and a non-interventionist’s approach. He is a historian of local wine culture and ampelography. Indeed, he is one of the most vocal proponents of the recently established Val d’Arno di Sopra appellation. These are the best new releases I have yet tasted from Petrolo.” –Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
The legacy for wine at Petrolo is certainly older than most; there are examples of Etruscan names associated with the area dating back 3000 years. The pedigree on the wines goes back to 1715 when a Medici Duke decreed that the Val d’Arno di Sopra was one of only four specific areas in which grape growing was recommended especially for wine production.
Petrolo is one of the leading proponents of the Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC, a small area in Tuscany that only recently received the DOC designation. Frankly, the designation should have happened a while ago—these are distinctive wines made from unique soils and the quality across the board is very high. If you want proof of Val d’Arno di Sopra’s quality, look no further than Petrolo’s Boggina, a 100% Sangiovese wine from a vineyard (Boggina) planted in 1952.
They often ferment this vineyard in a variety of different methods—ways to show off the inherent quality of the terroir as a through-line between the different bottlings. To highlight that, we’re bringing in mixed three packs of their 2014 Boggina single vineyard Sangiovese, with two bottles fermented in a traditional way and a third done in amphora. We’ve also got a stellar price on their Sangiovese-dominant Super Tuscan, Torrione, from the 2014 vintage. The wines arrive in a few weeks, perfect for summer drinking.
Arriving ETA July 10th
Case-3 Petrolo Boggina “Combo Pack” 2014 750ML ($219.95) $119 pre-arrival special
A case of three 750ml bottles
2 bottles 2014 Boggina, 1 bottle 2014 Boggina Anfora
2014 Petrolo Boggina:
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Bòggina is stunning. Although a touch compact in this vintage, the Bòggina impresses for its energy and overall freshness. Red cherry, raspberry, rose petal, tobacco and savory herbs are some of the many notes that continue to open up as the wine takes shape in the glass. It will be interesting to see if the 2014 puts on more weight with time in bottle. It certainly improved over the time I followed it.”
James Suckling 93 points “Very fine and silky with a tight and polished texture that shows wonderful length and definition. Medium body, pretty cherry and citrus character and a long and subtle finish. Well done for a difficult vintage. Delicious now.”
2014 Petrolo Boggina Anfora:
Antonio Galloni 93 points “It’s interesting to taste the 2014 Bòggina Anfora (Bògginanfora), Petrolo’s Sangiovese done in amphora next to the same wine aged in oak. The amphora wine is initially a bit softer and creamier in its contours, but it also offers less development in the glass. Lavender, plum, menthol, sage and sweet herbs lead into the expressive finish. This is another very pretty wine from Petrolo and proprietor Luca Sanjust.”
The legacy for wine at Petrolo is certainly older than most; there are examples of Etruscan names associated with the area dating back 3000 years. The pedigree on the wines goes back to 1715 when a Medici Duke decreed that the Val d’Arno di Sopra was one of only four specific areas in which grape growing was recommended especially for wine production.
Petrolo is one of the leading proponents of the Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC, a small area in Tuscany that only recently received the DOC designation. Frankly, the designation should have happened a while ago—these are distinctive wines made from unique soils and the quality across the board is very high. If you want proof of Val d’Arno di Sopra’s quality, look no further than Petrolo’s Boggina, a 100% Sangiovese wine from a vineyard (Boggina) planted in 1952.
They often ferment this vineyard in a variety of different methods—ways to show off the inherent quality of the terroir as a through-line between the different bottlings. To highlight that, we’re bringing in mixed three packs of their 2014 Boggina single vineyard Sangiovese, with two bottles fermented in a traditional way and a third done in amphora. We’ve also got a stellar price on their Sangiovese-dominant Super Tuscan, Torrione, from the 2014 vintage. The wines arrive in a few weeks, perfect for summer drinking.
Arriving ETA July 10th
Case-3 Petrolo Boggina “Combo Pack” 2014 750ML ($219.95) $119 pre-arrival special
A case of three 750ml bottles
2 bottles 2014 Boggina, 1 bottle 2014 Boggina Anfora
2014 Petrolo Boggina:
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Bòggina is stunning. Although a touch compact in this vintage, the Bòggina impresses for its energy and overall freshness. Red cherry, raspberry, rose petal, tobacco and savory herbs are some of the many notes that continue to open up as the wine takes shape in the glass. It will be interesting to see if the 2014 puts on more weight with time in bottle. It certainly improved over the time I followed it.”
James Suckling 93 points “Very fine and silky with a tight and polished texture that shows wonderful length and definition. Medium body, pretty cherry and citrus character and a long and subtle finish. Well done for a difficult vintage. Delicious now.”
2014 Petrolo Boggina Anfora:
Antonio Galloni 93 points “It’s interesting to taste the 2014 Bòggina Anfora (Bògginanfora), Petrolo’s Sangiovese done in amphora next to the same wine aged in oak. The amphora wine is initially a bit softer and creamier in its contours, but it also offers less development in the glass. Lavender, plum, menthol, sage and sweet herbs lead into the expressive finish. This is another very pretty wine from Petrolo and proprietor Luca Sanjust.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Petrolo Torrione Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany 2014 750ML ($39.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Petrolo Torrione Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany 2014 750ML ($449.95) $236 pre-arrival special (that’s only $19.67/bottle!)
James Suckling 92 points “A refined and silky rendition of this wine with pretty berry, citrus and light chocolate. Medium body. Chilled and delicious. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $33.99
The next best price is $33.99
Also Available, In Stock Now:
Petrolo Boggina C Classique Valdarno Di Sopra, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 24 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “This is so focused and precise with fantastic depth and beauty. A pure definition of sangiovese. Full-bodied, tight and refined. Yet, full of strength and length. Succulent, too. A single-vineyard wine with soul. Better in 2022.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2016 Val d’Arno di Sopra Bòggina C is a pure expression of Sangiovese from vines planted in 1952. Give the wine a little time to open in the glass; once it does, it offers a beautiful display of forest fruit, spice, leather and earthy tones. Unlike the Bòggina A that is aged in amphorae, the Bòggina C is fermented in concrete vats using ambient yeasts. It sees extended maceration times and is aged in French 40-hectoliter casks and tonneaux. Some 11,000 bottles were made. This single-vineyard expression of Sangiovese reveals impeccable balance and elegance.-ML”
Petrolo Boggina C Classique Valdarno Di Sopra, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 24 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “This is so focused and precise with fantastic depth and beauty. A pure definition of sangiovese. Full-bodied, tight and refined. Yet, full of strength and length. Succulent, too. A single-vineyard wine with soul. Better in 2022.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2016 Val d’Arno di Sopra Bòggina C is a pure expression of Sangiovese from vines planted in 1952. Give the wine a little time to open in the glass; once it does, it offers a beautiful display of forest fruit, spice, leather and earthy tones. Unlike the Bòggina A that is aged in amphorae, the Bòggina C is fermented in concrete vats using ambient yeasts. It sees extended maceration times and is aged in French 40-hectoliter casks and tonneaux. Some 11,000 bottles were made. This single-vineyard expression of Sangiovese reveals impeccable balance and elegance.-ML”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The Best Dominus Since…?
Dominus has been on a roll. Both the 2015 and now the 2016 vintages of this landmark wine are some of the best wines in Napa ever, at prices that should make cult-cabs blush. Could the 2017 leave the rest in the dust? Let your palate decide…
750ml In Stock Now / 375ML Arriving June 26th!
“simply a breathtaking wine” –Antonio Galloni
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2017 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $199 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2017 375ML ($129.95) $109 pre-arrival special, only 24 half-bottles available, ETA June 26th
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “The 2017 Dominus is one of the truly epic, grand wines of the vintage. Rich, dense and explosive, with tremendous concentration and sheer power, the 2017 Dominus captures all the personality of this site along with the natural opulence of the year. Inky dark fruit, lavender, menthol, licorice, plum, gravel and a host of dark spice notes infuse the 2017 with seemingly endless layers of nuance. Over the last two years I have tasted several hundred Napa Valley Cabernets, both from barrel and bottle. There is no question that Dominus belongs among the elite in 2017; it is simply a breathtaking wine. Certainly readers looking for a Napa Valley Cabernet to cellar should put Dominus at the top of their lists.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown – Wine Advocate 97+ points “There was about 50% of a normal crop this year for the 2017 Dominus, due to strict selection. Grapes were harvested from September 21 to October 3 and the wine was bottled in June 2019. This year the blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in 40% new French oak barrels. Very deep purple-black in color, it sashays nonchalantly out of the glass with graceful notions of potpourri, forest floor, crushed rocks, Ceylon tea and licorice with a core of black currant cordial, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and preserved plums plus a waft of garrigue. Full-bodied, the palate has a beautifully impactful, wonderfully quiet intensity of black and blue fruits with loads of floral and spicy sparks, framed by firm yet plush tannins, finishing with long-lasting earthy notes. 2,800 cases were made.”
James Suckling 97 points “Very intense aromas of fruit, yet complex subtlety. Blue fruit, licorice and blackberries with flowers and perfumes. Full-bodied, round and chewy with black tea, currants and hints of leather and incense. Coffee undertones. Extremely long and exciting. Available April 2020. Drink in 2022.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The grand vin is the 2017 Dominus, which is based on 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, harvested between September 21 and October 3, and aged in 40% new French oak. Chateau Lafite-like notes of blackcurrants, lead pencil shavings, cedary tobacco, and gravelly earth all emerge from the glass, and it’s full-bodied, has a terrific sense of elegance, lots of tannins, and a great finish. This tight, powerful, concentrated Dominus will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for 25 years or more. 2017 doesn’t get much better.”
750ml In Stock Now / 375ML Arriving June 26th!
“simply a breathtaking wine” –Antonio Galloni
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2017 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $199 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2017 375ML ($129.95) $109 pre-arrival special, only 24 half-bottles available, ETA June 26th
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “The 2017 Dominus is one of the truly epic, grand wines of the vintage. Rich, dense and explosive, with tremendous concentration and sheer power, the 2017 Dominus captures all the personality of this site along with the natural opulence of the year. Inky dark fruit, lavender, menthol, licorice, plum, gravel and a host of dark spice notes infuse the 2017 with seemingly endless layers of nuance. Over the last two years I have tasted several hundred Napa Valley Cabernets, both from barrel and bottle. There is no question that Dominus belongs among the elite in 2017; it is simply a breathtaking wine. Certainly readers looking for a Napa Valley Cabernet to cellar should put Dominus at the top of their lists.”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown – Wine Advocate 97+ points “There was about 50% of a normal crop this year for the 2017 Dominus, due to strict selection. Grapes were harvested from September 21 to October 3 and the wine was bottled in June 2019. This year the blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in 40% new French oak barrels. Very deep purple-black in color, it sashays nonchalantly out of the glass with graceful notions of potpourri, forest floor, crushed rocks, Ceylon tea and licorice with a core of black currant cordial, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and preserved plums plus a waft of garrigue. Full-bodied, the palate has a beautifully impactful, wonderfully quiet intensity of black and blue fruits with loads of floral and spicy sparks, framed by firm yet plush tannins, finishing with long-lasting earthy notes. 2,800 cases were made.”
James Suckling 97 points “Very intense aromas of fruit, yet complex subtlety. Blue fruit, licorice and blackberries with flowers and perfumes. Full-bodied, round and chewy with black tea, currants and hints of leather and incense. Coffee undertones. Extremely long and exciting. Available April 2020. Drink in 2022.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The grand vin is the 2017 Dominus, which is based on 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, harvested between September 21 and October 3, and aged in 40% new French oak. Chateau Lafite-like notes of blackcurrants, lead pencil shavings, cedary tobacco, and gravelly earth all emerge from the glass, and it’s full-bodied, has a terrific sense of elegance, lots of tannins, and a great finish. This tight, powerful, concentrated Dominus will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for 25 years or more. 2017 doesn’t get much better.”
A New Grapelive Review for
Saint Cosme’s Chateau Rouanne
In Stock Now:
“reminds me of Barruol’s Chateauneuf du Pape and is almost half the price!”
Chateau de Rouanne Vinsobres, Rhone 2018 750ML ($34.95) $24 special
93 Grapelive points “Wow, what a gorgeous and explosive new wine by Louis Barruol, owner of the famed Chateau de Saint Cosme in Gigondas. This Chateau de Rouanne Vinsobres is a meaty and deep purple/garnet Rhone red co-fermentation of Barruol’s old vine Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. The Chateau de Rouanne Vinsobres Rouge was crafted in this vintage from 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre and was, as noted above, all co-fermented primarily with whole cluster and all indigenous yeasts in concrete tanks, where it was also aged. The wine rested in the cement vat for 18 months, which allows the wine to show absolute purity in its final form and gave it time to fill out before bottling… it is brilliantly dark and inviting with polished texture and a full body delivering black raspberry, damson plum, boysenberry compote, creme de cassis and cherry fruit along with whole bunches influences highlighted with peppercorns, violets, earthiness and herbs de provence.…Louis Barruol has long used fruit from this remote area and has recently added this estate to his lineup as a separate label within the Saint Cosme family, which makes sense as Vinsobres has been recognized as its own appellation….Barruol has coveted this site for years, he notes that, like his famous Chateau de Saint Cosme, Chateau de Rouanne was first founded during Gallo-Roman times, probably dating back to the 1400s.… The vines in Louis Barruol’s Vinsobres are all organic and head trained with a very high percentage of Syrah interplanted here, much more than you’d find in other southern Rhone Crus, which adds to this wine’s distinct profile that seems more northern Rhone in first impression, though the lush Grenache takes the stage mid palate and creates a luxurious harmony here and there is a velvety almost chocolatey element with the touch of Mourvedre adding a contrasting gamey note. This 2018 GSM got way better as the bottle went down and fans of Saint Cosme with want to stock up on this one, it actually reminds me of Barruol’s Chateauneuf du Pape and is almost half the price! Barruol says Château de Rouanne is an extraordinary (and historic) place in many respects, primarily for its terroir…I can’t wait to see what the future holds, but this stuff is delicious now!”
“reminds me of Barruol’s Chateauneuf du Pape and is almost half the price!”
Chateau de Rouanne Vinsobres, Rhone 2018 750ML ($34.95) $24 special
93 Grapelive points “Wow, what a gorgeous and explosive new wine by Louis Barruol, owner of the famed Chateau de Saint Cosme in Gigondas. This Chateau de Rouanne Vinsobres is a meaty and deep purple/garnet Rhone red co-fermentation of Barruol’s old vine Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. The Chateau de Rouanne Vinsobres Rouge was crafted in this vintage from 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre and was, as noted above, all co-fermented primarily with whole cluster and all indigenous yeasts in concrete tanks, where it was also aged. The wine rested in the cement vat for 18 months, which allows the wine to show absolute purity in its final form and gave it time to fill out before bottling… it is brilliantly dark and inviting with polished texture and a full body delivering black raspberry, damson plum, boysenberry compote, creme de cassis and cherry fruit along with whole bunches influences highlighted with peppercorns, violets, earthiness and herbs de provence.…Louis Barruol has long used fruit from this remote area and has recently added this estate to his lineup as a separate label within the Saint Cosme family, which makes sense as Vinsobres has been recognized as its own appellation….Barruol has coveted this site for years, he notes that, like his famous Chateau de Saint Cosme, Chateau de Rouanne was first founded during Gallo-Roman times, probably dating back to the 1400s.… The vines in Louis Barruol’s Vinsobres are all organic and head trained with a very high percentage of Syrah interplanted here, much more than you’d find in other southern Rhone Crus, which adds to this wine’s distinct profile that seems more northern Rhone in first impression, though the lush Grenache takes the stage mid palate and creates a luxurious harmony here and there is a velvety almost chocolatey element with the touch of Mourvedre adding a contrasting gamey note. This 2018 GSM got way better as the bottle went down and fans of Saint Cosme with want to stock up on this one, it actually reminds me of Barruol’s Chateauneuf du Pape and is almost half the price! Barruol says Château de Rouanne is an extraordinary (and historic) place in many respects, primarily for its terroir…I can’t wait to see what the future holds, but this stuff is delicious now!”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Subscriber Special Recap
Arriving Wednesday
Case Pricing Ends Tuesday, June 23rd at 6 PM Pacific!
Honeyed and exotic, this is an impactful Champagne that expertly balances grace and ebullience.
Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($179.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Case-3 Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($599.95) $485 pre-arrival special (that’s only $161.67/bottle!)
Case-6 Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($1199.95) $915 pre-arrival special (that’s only $152.50/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 96 points “Aromas and flavors of toasted brioche and grilled nut enrich the yellow plum, nectarine and grated ginger notes of this rich and creamy Champagne. Finely woven and beautifully integrated, with a firm backbone of mouthwatering acidity providing precise balance for the lush range of flavor. Drink now through 2029. 14,000 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.”
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Piper-Heidsieck’s luxury cuvée with its beautifully decorated bottle is a well-matured blend of mainly Chardonnay with some Pinot Noir. Great drive and energy comes from the ripe fruit with its hints of almonds and toast. Drink this wine now.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2006 Brut Cuvée Rare is a rich, gourmand rendition of this prestige bottling, unfurling in the glass with a complex bouquet that mingles aromas of yellow orchard fruit, pears and fresh pineapple with nuances of buttered toast, iodine and smoke. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, broad and textural, while remaining fresh and surprisingly tight-knit at the core, concluding with a long and saline finish. There’s sufficient structural tension here to promise more than a decade’s graceful evolution, and although this is nicely balanced, it’s a generous, sun kissed rendition of the Cuvée Rare that reflects the warm vintage. The blend is 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir.”
Honeyed and exotic, this is an impactful Champagne that expertly balances grace and ebullience.
Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($179.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Case-3 Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($599.95) $485 pre-arrival special (that’s only $161.67/bottle!)
Case-6 Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($1199.95) $915 pre-arrival special (that’s only $152.50/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 96 points “Aromas and flavors of toasted brioche and grilled nut enrich the yellow plum, nectarine and grated ginger notes of this rich and creamy Champagne. Finely woven and beautifully integrated, with a firm backbone of mouthwatering acidity providing precise balance for the lush range of flavor. Drink now through 2029. 14,000 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.”
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Piper-Heidsieck’s luxury cuvée with its beautifully decorated bottle is a well-matured blend of mainly Chardonnay with some Pinot Noir. Great drive and energy comes from the ripe fruit with its hints of almonds and toast. Drink this wine now.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2006 Brut Cuvée Rare is a rich, gourmand rendition of this prestige bottling, unfurling in the glass with a complex bouquet that mingles aromas of yellow orchard fruit, pears and fresh pineapple with nuances of buttered toast, iodine and smoke. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, broad and textural, while remaining fresh and surprisingly tight-knit at the core, concluding with a long and saline finish. There’s sufficient structural tension here to promise more than a decade’s graceful evolution, and although this is nicely balanced, it’s a generous, sun kissed rendition of the Cuvée Rare that reflects the warm vintage. The blend is 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir.”
Continuum Proprietary Red
Big, bold, seductive, and hard to find, Continuum’s flagship red is sought after by collectors, enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. We secured our allocation, arriving July 3rd and on sale now just for you.
Mix any 2-4 bottles of Continuum 2017 for 5% off
Mix any 5+ bottles of Continuum 2017 for 10% off
Offer valid on stock on hand
Discount will not display online
We will adjust your order manually before finalizing
Arriving Friday, July 3rd:
Continuum Proprietary Red, Oakville 2017 750ML ($299.95) Displayed price: $259, that’s $246.05 at 5% off or $233.10 at 10% off!
Continuum Proprietary Red, Oakville 2017 375ML ($149.95) Displayed price: $128, that’s $121.60 at 5% off or $115.20 at 10% off!
Continuum Proprietary Red, Oakville 2017 1.5L ($599.95) Displayed price: $519, that’s $493.05 at 5% off or $467.10 at 10% off!
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “The 2017 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard comes across as remarkably primary. Bright red-toned fruit and floral notes give the 2017 striking freshness as well as nuance. Deep and layered on the palate, with superb depth, the 2017 Continuum is easily one of the wines of the year. Even in the early going, it is truly magnificent.”
Mix any 2-4 bottles of Continuum 2017 for 5% off
Mix any 5+ bottles of Continuum 2017 for 10% off
Offer valid on stock on hand
Discount will not display online
We will adjust your order manually before finalizing
Arriving Friday, July 3rd:
Continuum Proprietary Red, Oakville 2017 750ML ($299.95) Displayed price: $259, that’s $246.05 at 5% off or $233.10 at 10% off!
Continuum Proprietary Red, Oakville 2017 375ML ($149.95) Displayed price: $128, that’s $121.60 at 5% off or $115.20 at 10% off!
Continuum Proprietary Red, Oakville 2017 1.5L ($599.95) Displayed price: $519, that’s $493.05 at 5% off or $467.10 at 10% off!
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “The 2017 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard comes across as remarkably primary. Bright red-toned fruit and floral notes give the 2017 striking freshness as well as nuance. Deep and layered on the palate, with superb depth, the 2017 Continuum is easily one of the wines of the year. Even in the early going, it is truly magnificent.”
Shop our complete selection of California wines such as
Dominus, Spottswoode, Kapcsandy, and Eisele,
in-stock and arriving soon on our web store!
Dominus, Spottswoode, Kapcsandy, and Eisele,
in-stock and arriving soon on our web store!
Delas: Northern Rhone Ambition
Known for crafting some of the Northern Rhone’s most powerful wines, Delas is a signature producer in a region with no shortage of legendary names. It is thanks to their significant holdings throughout the region that allow Delas to not only produce some of the region’s finest expressions, including their Hermitage Les Bessards, but also some of its best values. Wines like the St Joseph Francois de Tournon and Chante Perdrix Cornas prove that world-class Northern Rhone wines don’t necessarily have to break the bank.
With consistently strong scores from some of the world’s most respected critics, including a perfect score on their 2015 Hermitage Les Bessards, Delas’ wines no longer fly under the radar. However, even with the recent acclaim, Delas has kept their pricing reasonable. So, for those looking to experience what ambition tastes like in the Northern Rhone today, without the sticker shock, look no further.
In Stock Now:
Delas Freres Cornas Chante Perdrix, Rhone 2015 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “Hot Wine! Offers a delicious core of gently mulled blueberry, blackberry and black currant fruit that is matched by a mix of floral, mineral and singed spice notes throughout. The long chalky spine is well-buried on the finish, letting all the elements play out suavely through the finish. Best from 2021 through 2036. 1,100 cases made.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2015 Cornas Chante Perdrix is a blend of several parcels, vinified in concrete and aged primarily in oak. It’s dark and concentrated, although admittedly not the most muscular Cornas. Black currant and cedar notes combine along with peppery hints of Montreal smoked meat to yield a savory impression. It’s all held together by fine-grained, dusty tannins, which leave a lingering soft texture on the long, licorice-tinged finish. Already enjoyable, it should develop well for 10-12 years or more.”
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Dark purple. Expansive aromas of black and blue fruit preserves, smoky Indian spices and olive, with a suave floral nuance that gains strength with air. Deeply concentrated but energetic as well, offering palate-staining blueberry and violet pastille flavors and building spiciness. Rounded tannins add gentle grip to a strikingly long penetrating finish that clings with strong tenacity.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Delas Freres Hermitage Les Bessards, Rhone 2015 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 27 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!”
Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Cellar Selection! There’s a striking balance here calibrating bold, almost muscular ripeness against an invigorating granite edge. This wine is plump and full bodied, full of supple blackberry and plum flavors balanced by pert acidity and taut, penetrating tannins. It should be in peak from 2020–2035 but hold further.”
Wine Advocate 95-97 points “The top cuvée is the 2015 Hermitage les Bessards, which comes from the middle to lower portion of the steep, granite hillside known as Bessards, unquestionably one of the best terroirs for Syrah in the world. Its inky purple color is followed by a full-bodied, rich, thrillingly concentrated red that has huge tannin, bright acidity and a solid mid-palate concentration. It still tastes like it just came from the press and will need to be forgotten for a decade. As normal, it’s completely destemmed and will see 18 months in 30% new oak.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Inky ruby. A highly aromatic bouquet evokes candied black and blue fruits, along with complicating suggestions of smoky minerals, candied flowers, olive and vanilla. Deep, chewy and expansive in the mouth, offering impressively concentrated dark berry liqueur, fruitcake and salty olive flavors that are complicated by a hint of smoky minerality and a building floral pastille note. Distinctly rich and powerful but surprisingly graceful as well, showing noteworthy clarity and mineral-driven thrust on the strikingly long finish.”
Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2015 750ML ($44.95) $36 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2015 750ML ($249.95) $199 special (that’s only $33.17/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “Inky and concentrated, the 2015 Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon is no easy-drinking Saint-Joseph. It’s smoky, herbal and ashy all at once, yet it’s buoyed by ample black cherry fruit and vibrant acidity. This medium to full-bodied Syrah has plenty of tannins, but they’re ultimately silky and most apparent on the long, licorice-tinged finish. This is approachable now but should be even better in 3 years and should drink well for at least another 10 after that.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Both Saint Joseph releases are brilliant in 2015. The 2015 Saint Joseph François De Tournon comes vines around Tournon, Mauves, Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, and Vion, and is always destemmed and aged in 30% new barrels. This full-bodied, rounded, sexy beauty shows the power and fruit of the vintage. With classic notes of black and blue fruits, violets, incense and pepper, drink this textured, expansive, terrific Saint Joseph over the coming 10-15 years.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Dark ruby. High-pitched red and dark berry and violet aromas show excellent focus and pick up hints of cracked pepper and sandalwood with air. Sappy and seamless in texture, offering fresh black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a hint of candied licorice. Turns sweeter on the penetrating, impressively long finish, which features smooth, even tannins and lingering boysenberry and floral qualities. “
Delas Freres Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes-Marquise de la Tourette, Rhone 2015 750ML ($89.95) $66 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Falstaff 96 points “[Translated] Very closed, blackberry jam, hints of balsamic spice. Creamy start, immediately present minerality, extremely high density with fine but not too silky tannins, an elegance at the maximum of what fits in 14 percent by volume, minerally seasoned, all components seamlessly integrated, ripe, well-bearing acidity, very expressive.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “This is loaded with well-defined loganberry, blackberry and boysenberry pâte de fruit flavors, flecked with anise and black tea notes and carried by a fine iron streak that lingers wonderfully. A wine of cut, purity and precision. Best from 2020 through 2035. From France.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “A blend of Syrah grapes from several lieux-dits, including Les Bessards, the 2015 Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes is aged in new and second use barrels. It’s a dark, concentrated wine, meaty, rich and tannic but with a bright beam of cassis fruit that lifts it and gives it great definition and shape on the palate. Give this medium to full-bodied wine at least 5 years in the cellar and drink it over the next 15.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “While the Les Bessards gets all the attention, the 2015 Hermitage Domaine Des Tourettes isn’t far behind and is unquestionably the value play. Beef blood, cassis, blackberry liqueur and loads of crushed rock nuances all emerge from this ripe, concentrated, full-bodied Hermitage that has a classic, structured profile. It’s well worth a case purchase and will keep for two to three decades. As always, this cuvée comes from two parcels, the lower part of the Bessards lieu-dit and the Les Grandes Vignes located at the highest point on Hermitage Hill. It’s completely destemmed and sees 16 months in 30% new French oak.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Enticing hints of sweet spice, black pepper and bacon fat seduce on the nose of this rich but balanced Hermitage. Blackberry and cherry flavors are fresh and juicy but structured by firm tannins and brisk acidity. A polished wine already, it should intensify its savory, smoky complexities well through 2030.”
Richard Hemming – Jancis Robinson 18/20 “Smokier and firmer than their Bessards Hermitage. Dense, furry tannins and loads of savoury liquorice flavour. This is classic Hermitage: burly, powerful, grainy and heady – superb clarity of fruit. Faultless balance.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $86
The average listed price is $86
Thanks for reading!