In Today’s Newsletter:
Durand Subscriber Special
Standout New 2015 Brunello
Towering Barolo Ravera from Elvio Cogno
Kelley Fox’s Stunning “Star of Bethlehem” Pinot Noir
Rare Wines from Lucien Le Moine
Trending Wines
Collector’s Corner:
New Wines from Emidio Pepe
Durand Subscriber Special
The Durand brothers are making it look easy. It’s hard to find Northern Rhone wines that combine soul and polish—it seems as if most of the new wines we taste are either hyper glossy or very rustic. To hit that sweet spot, where your wines speak very loudly of place but are elegant, drinkable and age-worthy—that’s special indeed. To make those sorts of wines at the prices that the Durands charge seems almost unthinkable.
We’re taking those prices and making them even better, at least until we open for business on Friday morning. We’re offering you an extra 5% off orders of 6-11 bottles and 10% off orders of a case or more (mix and match!) of Eric & Joel Durand wines until Sunday at 10am.
“Consistently brilliant wines emerge from Domaine Durand, which is run with incredible talent and passion by Eric and Joël Durand. Located in the tiny village of Châteaubourg, they pull from roughly 22 hectares of vines, 8.5 hectares in Saint Joseph, 9.5 hectares in Cornas and tiny amounts in Saint-Péray and Vin de Pays. The brothers took over the estate in 1991, and while the winemaking is relatively modern, these are classic, pure, beautifully made wines that speak clearly to their region and terroir.“ –Jeb Dunnuck
Mix any 6-11 750ml bottles of Eric & Joel Durand wine for 5% off
Mix any 12+ 750ml bottles of Eric & Joel Durand wine for 10% off
Offer valid on in-stock wines
Discount will not display online
We will adjust your order manually before finalizing
Sale Ends Friday, July 10th at 10AM
We have 13 different bottlings from the Durands in store right now. You can view the entire list in our webstore or see some of the highlights below:
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Premices, Rhone 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off!
Wine Spectator 94 points “Warm fig, blackberry and black currant fruit gives this a decidedly dark profile, while licorice root, dark olive and bay leaf notes score the finish. A tarry edge adds grip and length. Shows range and depth, and begs for cellaring. Best from 2021 through 2035.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2016 Cornas Premices, from relatively young vines, has turned out well. Menthol, leather and plum combine on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is supple and charming. Already easy to drink, it offers decent concentration and a long finish lined with soft, dusty tannins.”-JC
We’re taking those prices and making them even better, at least until we open for business on Friday morning. We’re offering you an extra 5% off orders of 6-11 bottles and 10% off orders of a case or more (mix and match!) of Eric & Joel Durand wines until Sunday at 10am.
“Consistently brilliant wines emerge from Domaine Durand, which is run with incredible talent and passion by Eric and Joël Durand. Located in the tiny village of Châteaubourg, they pull from roughly 22 hectares of vines, 8.5 hectares in Saint Joseph, 9.5 hectares in Cornas and tiny amounts in Saint-Péray and Vin de Pays. The brothers took over the estate in 1991, and while the winemaking is relatively modern, these are classic, pure, beautifully made wines that speak clearly to their region and terroir.“ –Jeb Dunnuck
Mix any 6-11 750ml bottles of Eric & Joel Durand wine for 5% off
Mix any 12+ 750ml bottles of Eric & Joel Durand wine for 10% off
Offer valid on in-stock wines
Discount will not display online
We will adjust your order manually before finalizing
Sale Ends Friday, July 10th at 10AM
We have 13 different bottlings from the Durands in store right now. You can view the entire list in our webstore or see some of the highlights below:
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Premices, Rhone 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off!
Wine Spectator 94 points “Warm fig, blackberry and black currant fruit gives this a decidedly dark profile, while licorice root, dark olive and bay leaf notes score the finish. A tarry edge adds grip and length. Shows range and depth, and begs for cellaring. Best from 2021 through 2035.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2016 Cornas Premices, from relatively young vines, has turned out well. Menthol, leather and plum combine on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is supple and charming. Already easy to drink, it offers decent concentration and a long finish lined with soft, dusty tannins.”-JC
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Premices, Rhone 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off!
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Lots of blueberries, jammy blackberries, violets, licorice, and floral notes emerge from the 2017 Cornas Prémices. This fleshy, sexy, full-bodied beauty is a quintessential, hedonistic Cornas that’s already hard to resist. Nevertheless, it has enough sweet tannins to keep for over a decade. This cuvée comes from slightly younger vines (15 to 30-year-old vines) and is aged in 20% new French oak.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Offers a ripe, slightly toasty profile, featuring plum and blackberry fruit, tinged with ganache and alder notes. Shows some heft, with the toast clinging to the finish. A light violet echo gives this some needed lift at the end. Best from 2020 through 2030. 875 cases made, 120 cases imported.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes, Rhone 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 Displayed Price, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off!
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “One of the flagship releases is the 2017 Cornas Empreintes, which comes from the steep, granite hillsides of Cornas, sees 25% stems, and is brought up in 20% new French oak. This full-bodied, concentrated effort boasts a deep purple hue, notes of peppery herbs, plums, blackberries, and smoked game, building tannins, and just about overflowing amounts of character. It’s a stunning, brilliant Cornas that’s going to benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and cruise for 15+ years. Bravo!”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Solidly built, with a strong chalky spine buried deep in the core of dark plum and blackberry fruit. Smoldering tobacco, dark olive and warm cast iron accents fill in throughout. Frankly grippy, so some patience in the cellar is required. Best from 2022 through 2040. 800 cases made, 90 cases imported.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Confidence, Rhone 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 Displayed Price, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off!
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The top wine from these two talented brothers is the 2017 Cornas Confidence, and it’s one of the wines of the vintage in 2017. Based on 70% destemmed Grenache and a parcel selection from pure granite soils, aged in 30% new French oak, this massively endowed, powerful, full-bodied Cornas offers a sumptuous array of spiced dark fruits, smoked meats, new leather, camphor, and peppery herbs. It shows the sexy yet also tannic style of the vintage and needs 3-4 years of bottle age. It’s going to keep for 15+ years or more.”
Decanter 94 points “From 30-year-old vines on granite soils, the fruit for this wine is 30% whole-bunch fermented, the matured for 18 months in barriques, 30% new and the rest fairly recent. Deep, inky fruits on the nose lead to a concentrated, juicy, profound palate, veering towards being extracted but with well balanced acidity and fine, bright, crisp tannins. It has very persistent fruit, with an ingrained, toothsome structure. A wine that could play rugby at a professional level but also do some modelling on the side.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Well-packed, featuring fig, steeped black currant and dark plum fruit flavors that slowly meld with warm cast iron, dark olive and earth notes. Shows tannic drive through the finish, with sanguine and floral echoes adding range and contrast to the muscular profile. Best from 2022 through 2040. 140 cases made, 30 cases imported.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The top wine from these two talented brothers is the 2017 Cornas Confidence, and it’s one of the wines of the vintage in 2017. Based on 70% destemmed Grenache and a parcel selection from pure granite soils, aged in 30% new French oak, this massively endowed, powerful, full-bodied Cornas offers a sumptuous array of spiced dark fruits, smoked meats, new leather, camphor, and peppery herbs. It shows the sexy yet also tannic style of the vintage and needs 3-4 years of bottle age. It’s going to keep for 15+ years or more.”
Decanter 94 points “From 30-year-old vines on granite soils, the fruit for this wine is 30% whole-bunch fermented, the matured for 18 months in barriques, 30% new and the rest fairly recent. Deep, inky fruits on the nose lead to a concentrated, juicy, profound palate, veering towards being extracted but with well balanced acidity and fine, bright, crisp tannins. It has very persistent fruit, with an ingrained, toothsome structure. A wine that could play rugby at a professional level but also do some modelling on the side.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Well-packed, featuring fig, steeped black currant and dark plum fruit flavors that slowly meld with warm cast iron, dark olive and earth notes. Shows tannic drive through the finish, with sanguine and floral echoes adding range and contrast to the muscular profile. Best from 2022 through 2040. 140 cases made, 30 cases imported.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Confidence, Rhone 2016 750ML ($59.95) $49 Displayed Price, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off!
Wine Spectator 95 points “Nicely put together, with a gorgeous core of raspberry, cassis and bitter plum fruit that has melded seamlessly with fresh bay leaf, olive, violet and alder notes. The long finish reveals a buried iron hint while the fruit sails through. Best from 2020 through 2035.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95+ points “The 2016 Cornas Confidence is the flagship cuvée of the estate and comes from the La Côte and Tézier lieux-dits in Cornas, both of which are shallow, granitic parcels. It’s slightly tighter and more focused compared to the sexier Empreintes and has more cassis and blackberry fruits as well as lots of cedarwood, ground pepper, and earth-like aromatics. This full-bodied, concentrated 2016 has beautiful purity, a ripe, layered texture, and building tannins. It’s a serious 2016 to drink over the coming 10-15 years.”
Mix any 6-11 750ml bottles of Eric & Joel Durand wine for 5% off
Mix any 12+ 750ml bottles of Eric & Joel Durand wine for 10% off
Offer valid on in-stock wines
Discount will not display online
We will adjust your order manually before finalizing
Sale Ends Friday, July 10th at 10AM
Standout New 2015 Brunello
“This is a standout group of new releases from Montalcino. What impresses most about 2015 is the consistently high quality delivered across the board. As a whole, the wines are homogenous and uniform in terms of their intensity, depth and generosity. House styles may differ from producer to producer, but these wines are united by the energy, exuberance and radiance that come naturally to a beautifully warm and sunny vintage like 2015. That distinctive vintage signature is applied evenly across the board, leaving no wine untouched by its magic.” – Monica Larner, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
You can tell a lot about a Brunello vintage by how early we start getting asked about it. In the case of the 2015s, well, let’s just say this is a pretty anticipated set of wines. ’15 was a warm year across Europe and the vintage produced Brunello di Montalcino of exceptional concentration. Even for a region known for richer wines, these are powerful—yet they maintain an expressiveness that’s delightfully fresh to go along with their intensity.
The critics have been raving about it as well, with Eric Guido at Vinous saying that “It’s a vintage of power and purity, the result of a long growing season with no extreme events” before citing Andrea Mantengoli, who called it “A vintage made by God.”
Monica Larner, writing for Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, exclaimed “Ask anyone who farmed Sangiovese that year. They will tell you: Fruit has never been more beautiful than it was in the picture-perfect 2015 vintage.” She called the wines “a standout group of new releases from Montalcino” with “consistently high quality delivered across the board.”
In short, this is a vintage to buy broadly and deeply. Not since 2010 have we seen this sort of widespread praise and we all wish we have more 2010 Brunello in our cellars. We’ve got some of the highlights of our 2015 Brunello selection below, but we’ve got new wines added to our webstore every week and you can see all the Brunello options there.
Arriving Friday:
Tenuta Fanti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 95 points “There’s a beautiful interplay between bright, primary florals, such as rose petals and tulips and dust, hay bale and dried raspberries. The palate suggests a ripe, powerful persona with chewy, juicy tannins and a fine line of pretty acidity. Best ever. Drink in 2022
In Stock Now:
Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($49.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Camigliano 2015 Brunello di Montalcino sees fruit from a 50-hectare vineyard planted 300 to 350 meters above sea level. The soils show lots of variation with clay, sand, rock and marine fossils. The wine’s bouquet reveals classic Brunello characteristics of wild berry, forest floor, pressed rose petal, crushed stone and spice. You also get those typical balsam and herbal tones that are so specific to Montalcino. In fact, I argue that they come across with even more intensity in a beautifully balanced and sunny vintage such as 2015. This wine ages in 60-hectoliter botti for 24 months, making for a firm yet surprisingly streamlined mouthfeel. With 160,000 bottles made, the wine was released in January 2020.”
James Suckling 94 points “A bright and elegant Brunello that suggests sliced oranges, tulips and rose petals. Medium-to full-bodied and finely structured, drawing on silky layers of tannins and a vibrant edge of acidity. Drink now or hold.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “A focused, lively red, this exhibits cherry, strawberry, earth, mineral and Mediterranean herb flavors. Dense, staying fresh as this unwinds on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2042.”
You can tell a lot about a Brunello vintage by how early we start getting asked about it. In the case of the 2015s, well, let’s just say this is a pretty anticipated set of wines. ’15 was a warm year across Europe and the vintage produced Brunello di Montalcino of exceptional concentration. Even for a region known for richer wines, these are powerful—yet they maintain an expressiveness that’s delightfully fresh to go along with their intensity.
The critics have been raving about it as well, with Eric Guido at Vinous saying that “It’s a vintage of power and purity, the result of a long growing season with no extreme events” before citing Andrea Mantengoli, who called it “A vintage made by God.”
Monica Larner, writing for Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, exclaimed “Ask anyone who farmed Sangiovese that year. They will tell you: Fruit has never been more beautiful than it was in the picture-perfect 2015 vintage.” She called the wines “a standout group of new releases from Montalcino” with “consistently high quality delivered across the board.”
In short, this is a vintage to buy broadly and deeply. Not since 2010 have we seen this sort of widespread praise and we all wish we have more 2010 Brunello in our cellars. We’ve got some of the highlights of our 2015 Brunello selection below, but we’ve got new wines added to our webstore every week and you can see all the Brunello options there.
Arriving Friday:
Tenuta Fanti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 95 points “There’s a beautiful interplay between bright, primary florals, such as rose petals and tulips and dust, hay bale and dried raspberries. The palate suggests a ripe, powerful persona with chewy, juicy tannins and a fine line of pretty acidity. Best ever. Drink in 2022
In Stock Now:
Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($49.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Castello di Camigliano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Camigliano 2015 Brunello di Montalcino sees fruit from a 50-hectare vineyard planted 300 to 350 meters above sea level. The soils show lots of variation with clay, sand, rock and marine fossils. The wine’s bouquet reveals classic Brunello characteristics of wild berry, forest floor, pressed rose petal, crushed stone and spice. You also get those typical balsam and herbal tones that are so specific to Montalcino. In fact, I argue that they come across with even more intensity in a beautifully balanced and sunny vintage such as 2015. This wine ages in 60-hectoliter botti for 24 months, making for a firm yet surprisingly streamlined mouthfeel. With 160,000 bottles made, the wine was released in January 2020.”
James Suckling 94 points “A bright and elegant Brunello that suggests sliced oranges, tulips and rose petals. Medium-to full-bodied and finely structured, drawing on silky layers of tannins and a vibrant edge of acidity. Drink now or hold.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “A focused, lively red, this exhibits cherry, strawberry, earth, mineral and Mediterranean herb flavors. Dense, staying fresh as this unwinds on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2042.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($59.95) $45 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($719.95) $489 special (that’s only $40.75/bottle!)
James Suckling 95 points “The sliced plums and peaches are plentiful here on the nose. Full-bodied and dense with round and rich tannins and a long, long finish. Shows structure and intensity. Serious Brunello. Better after 2022.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “This is round and full of sweet, ripe cherry, strawberry, graphite and earth flavors. Firms up as the finish plays out, echoing an essence of fruit. Best from 2022 through 2039. —B.S.”
Luce della Vite Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 100 points “Amazing aromas of crushed berries, cherries, flowers, black truffles and wet earth, turning to violets and black tea. Extremely aromatic. Full-bodied, deep and profound with fantastically strong tannins that just melt into the wine. Fantastic length and intensity. Truly great. Drinkable, but better in 2024 and onwards.”
Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 20+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($799.95) $549 special (that’s only $45.75/bottle!)
James Suckling 97 points “Wonderful aromos of flowers, plums, terracotta and white pepper. Intense, yet ever so subtle. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins, and a long and intense finish. Shows excellent length. Drink after 2021.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Good deep red. Complex aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, graphite, mocha, and mint. Focused and suave with very attractive sweetness and standout purity to its flavors of red berries and candied flowers. Finishes with polished tannins and outstanding length.”
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($69.95) $55 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special, 6 magnums in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Black cherry and black currant fruit is accented by tobacco, earth and mineral flavors in this sleek yet dense red. Balsamic elements of juniper, thyme and olive add depth as this cruises to a long finish. The potential lies in the excellent length. Best from 2023 through 2042. —B.S.”
Eric Guido – Vinous 94 points “La Gerla’s 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is gorgeous, showing depths of earthy moist soil, minerals and hints of animal musk up front, giving way to crushed strawberry and cherry, getting spicy with lifting minerals yet retaining a rich character throughout. On the palate, silky textures are matched by cool-toned acids and refreshing moist mineral tones, as zesty cherry and cedar come forward. It’s so balanced and smooth, with high energy lasting into the long finish, showing saturating spice and salty minerals, yet remaining cool-toned and precise. The 2015 is a beautifully balanced wine that’s firmly rooted in the earth.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Arriving ETA July:
Caprili Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($59.95) $45 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 95 points “Offering cherry, plum, iron, earth and floral aromas and flavors, this is vibrant and beautifully balanced. Well-structured, with the harmony and concentration to develop. Best from 2023 through 2043. 4,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.”
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 95 points “Vibrant red. Minerals and violet complement lively red cherry and raspberry aromas on the incisive nose. Then enticingly fresh and well-balanced, with captivating violet inner-mouth perfume to the steely red and black fruit flavors that linger impressively. The delicately peppery finish features polished if youthful tannins and noteworthy purity of fruit. Knockout 2015 Brunello, one of the top half dozen of the year.”
James Suckling 95 points “This is a very decadent Brunello with dried stems, charcuterie, bay leaf, Thai basil and earth. Full-bodied an0064 dense, the deeply interlocked layers of dark fruit nearly tripping over the ropey, chewy tannin structure. Drink from 2026.”
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please let us know their name when placing your order.)
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When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you,
please let us know their name when placing your order.)
www.vinopoliswineshop.com
info@vinopoliswineshop.com
503-223-6002
Towering Barolo Ravera from Elvio Cogno
If you’ve heard about the Ravera cru in Barolo (see: Vajra) you have Elvio Cogno to thank. Born and raised in Novello, the village associated with the famous vineyard, he left his partnership with Marcarini in his sixties to start his namesake winery in 1990. He purchased Cascina Nuova, an underperforming but historic estate, and started making wines under his own name from the Ravera cru.
The resulting wines have been stupendous ever since, prompting a rush on land in Novello (and Ravera in particular) but no wineries have surpassed the original master and his son-in-law (winemaker since ’96 Valter Fissore—who is arguably even more talented than Elvio). From their entry level “Cascina Nuova” Barolo up to his Riservas from the choicest parts of his holdings, these are wines that will appeal to every lover of classicist Barolo.
Antonio Galloni agrees as well, consistently praising the wines over multiple vintages and price levels. Their 2014 Riserva earned a 97 point score and the wines since have more than lived up. This is a classical estate that over delivers. We have an assortment of their wines arriving next Friday and lovers of Barolo would be smart to put some of each in their cellars.
Arriving ETA Friday, July 17th
Elvio Cogno Ravera, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2016 Barolo Ravera shows all of the energy and tension this site is so well-known for. Penetrating acids and veins of tannin give the Ravera its drive and overall feel. Naturally, the 2016 is going to need at least a few years to be at its best, but it has tremendous breeding and character to burn. White pepper, mint, sweet red cherry and citrus add to the wine’s high-toned profile. This is another stellar wine from Cogno.”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Cogno’s 2016 Barolo Cascina Nuova is absolutely gorgeous. Pliant and expressive on the palate, the 2016 has a touch more mid-palate sweetness and texture than in the past, when the wine has been more nervous in feel. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, mint, wild flowers, cedar, sweet tobacco and anise all open up effortlessly. Silky tannins add to its considerable immediacy and appeal. This is such a pretty wine in its peer group and also a terrific example of how attractive more modestly priced Barolos are in 2016.”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Bricco Pernice, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2015 Barolo Bricco Pernice is an exotic, beguiling wine. Blood orange, mint, sweet red cherry, star anise and a range of spice notes give the Bricco Pernice striking aromatic and flavor complexity. Medium in body, refined and super-expressive, the 2015 has so much to offer. Best of all, it will drink well with just a few years in bottle. It is such an effortless, gracious wine. Very polished, nuanced and elegant, this silky Barolo has a ton of structure but is also impeccable in its balance.”
Importer Note “Bricco Pernice is named for the rock on which courting partridges build their nest. “Pernice” translates as “rock ptarmigan” or “partridge,” “Bricco” is a hill. This is the very latest wine from Elvio Cogno. Until a few years ago this was part of the Ravera Barolo cru; in recent years it has been expanded to incorporate the neighboring hills. The fruit of years of hard work, this wine is a dream come true, made from the finest vineyard in Novello in the most historic part of the Ravera cru. The label is designed by Elena, Elvio’s granddaughter.”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Vigna Elena, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2014 750ML ($179.95) $135 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2014 Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena is seamless in the glass, with stunning balance and all of the pedigree of this year. Medium in body and gracious, it shows elegant notes of rose petal, mint, white pepper, sweet tobacco and dried flowers. Sweet red stone fruit marry with a classic sense of austerity. All of the elements here come together in this stunning, gloriously beautiful Barolo from Cogno. Deeply expressive and intense, the 2014 Vigna Elena is not an obvious wine, but instead it is ethereal, lifted and with pure class.”
Elvio Cogno Langhe Nebbiolo Montegrilli, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Elvio Cogno Langhe Nebbiolo Montegrilli, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($419.95) $319 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo Montegrilli is a very pretty wine. The warm, dry vintage has given Cogno’s Nebbiolo an extra kick of richness, but without robbing the wine of its personality. Sweet dried cherry, mint, tobacco, crushed flowers and anise all flesh out in an expansive, inviting Nebbiolo that will drink nicely for at least a number of years.”
The resulting wines have been stupendous ever since, prompting a rush on land in Novello (and Ravera in particular) but no wineries have surpassed the original master and his son-in-law (winemaker since ’96 Valter Fissore—who is arguably even more talented than Elvio). From their entry level “Cascina Nuova” Barolo up to his Riservas from the choicest parts of his holdings, these are wines that will appeal to every lover of classicist Barolo.
Antonio Galloni agrees as well, consistently praising the wines over multiple vintages and price levels. Their 2014 Riserva earned a 97 point score and the wines since have more than lived up. This is a classical estate that over delivers. We have an assortment of their wines arriving next Friday and lovers of Barolo would be smart to put some of each in their cellars.
Arriving ETA Friday, July 17th
Elvio Cogno Ravera, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2016 Barolo Ravera shows all of the energy and tension this site is so well-known for. Penetrating acids and veins of tannin give the Ravera its drive and overall feel. Naturally, the 2016 is going to need at least a few years to be at its best, but it has tremendous breeding and character to burn. White pepper, mint, sweet red cherry and citrus add to the wine’s high-toned profile. This is another stellar wine from Cogno.”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Cogno’s 2016 Barolo Cascina Nuova is absolutely gorgeous. Pliant and expressive on the palate, the 2016 has a touch more mid-palate sweetness and texture than in the past, when the wine has been more nervous in feel. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, mint, wild flowers, cedar, sweet tobacco and anise all open up effortlessly. Silky tannins add to its considerable immediacy and appeal. This is such a pretty wine in its peer group and also a terrific example of how attractive more modestly priced Barolos are in 2016.”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Bricco Pernice, Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2015 Barolo Bricco Pernice is an exotic, beguiling wine. Blood orange, mint, sweet red cherry, star anise and a range of spice notes give the Bricco Pernice striking aromatic and flavor complexity. Medium in body, refined and super-expressive, the 2015 has so much to offer. Best of all, it will drink well with just a few years in bottle. It is such an effortless, gracious wine. Very polished, nuanced and elegant, this silky Barolo has a ton of structure but is also impeccable in its balance.”
Importer Note “Bricco Pernice is named for the rock on which courting partridges build their nest. “Pernice” translates as “rock ptarmigan” or “partridge,” “Bricco” is a hill. This is the very latest wine from Elvio Cogno. Until a few years ago this was part of the Ravera Barolo cru; in recent years it has been expanded to incorporate the neighboring hills. The fruit of years of hard work, this wine is a dream come true, made from the finest vineyard in Novello in the most historic part of the Ravera cru. The label is designed by Elena, Elvio’s granddaughter.”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Vigna Elena, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2014 750ML ($179.95) $135 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2014 Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena is seamless in the glass, with stunning balance and all of the pedigree of this year. Medium in body and gracious, it shows elegant notes of rose petal, mint, white pepper, sweet tobacco and dried flowers. Sweet red stone fruit marry with a classic sense of austerity. All of the elements here come together in this stunning, gloriously beautiful Barolo from Cogno. Deeply expressive and intense, the 2014 Vigna Elena is not an obvious wine, but instead it is ethereal, lifted and with pure class.”
Elvio Cogno Langhe Nebbiolo Montegrilli, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Elvio Cogno Langhe Nebbiolo Montegrilli, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($419.95) $319 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo Montegrilli is a very pretty wine. The warm, dry vintage has given Cogno’s Nebbiolo an extra kick of richness, but without robbing the wine of its personality. Sweet dried cherry, mint, tobacco, crushed flowers and anise all flesh out in an expansive, inviting Nebbiolo that will drink nicely for at least a number of years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Kelley Fox’s Stunning “Star of Bethlehem” Pinot Noir
“spiritually aligned with les Amoureuses in Chambolle-Musigny” – John Gilman, A View from the Cellar
Kelley Fox makes some of the prettiest and most captivating wines in all of the Willamette Valley—fresh and delicate with a palate-pleasing intricacy. Her hands-on approach to farming and use of whole-cluster fermentations mean that the wines have a dialectic of fresh and savoriness coupled with an energy that has vaulted her into the stratosphere of Willamette Valley producers.
The vineyard that she’s best known for is Maresh—a top site in the Dundee Hills and within that, her block-designated bottlings are especially coveted. We’ve got some of her “Star of Bethlehem Flower Block” bottling arriving on Friday, which is perhaps the most Chambolle-like of the bunch. The 2018 reflects the fantastic quality of the vintage and is one of the best iterations yet. Like all of Kelley’s top wines, this is only available in limited quantities.
Arriving Friday:
Kelley Fox Wines Maresh Vineyard Star of Bethlehem Flower Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 95+ points “The 2018 Star-Of-Bethlehem Flower Block pinot from Kelley Fox is another gorgeous example of the vintage. The wine shows lovely ripeness on both the nose and palate, without every losing that inimitable delicacy that I think of as the calling card for this cuvée. The bouquet wafts from the glass in a refined mix of cherries, wild strawberries, beetroot, a hint of raw cocoa, a refined base of soil, hints of hazelnut, gentle oak, peonies and rose petals. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, refined and elegant, with a superb core of fruit, lovely transparency and grip, suave tannins and a long, complex and light on its feet finish. Though the soil signatures are completely different, this is always the Kelley Fox bottling that strikes me as the most spiritually aligned with les Amoureuses in Chambolle-Musigny. It is a stunning young wine in 2018. 2026-2065+.”
Looking for other Kelley Fox block-designate Pinot? We’ve got a few bottles of a few wines (some with age) in stock now:
Kelley Fox Wines Maresh Vineyard Red Barn Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Editor’s Choice. From a selection of the original vines at this heritage vineyard, which was planted in the early 1970s, this is densely layered with strawberry, raspberry and cherry fruit. Details are well-integrated, bringing light notes of toasted coconut and caramel. The texture and mouthfeel express the little extras that old vines, when handled properly, can deliver.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “(100 percent whole clusters) Limpid ruby-red. Highly perfumed, mineral-tinged raspberry, candied cherry, incense and floral oil scents develop a spicy accent with air. Juicy, sweet and light on its feet, offering concentrated red fruit, blood orange and floral pastille flavors that slowly fan out as the wine opens up. The mineral and floral notes drive an extremely long, energetic finish that features silky tannins and a subtle touch of candied orange peel.”
Kelley Fox makes some of the prettiest and most captivating wines in all of the Willamette Valley—fresh and delicate with a palate-pleasing intricacy. Her hands-on approach to farming and use of whole-cluster fermentations mean that the wines have a dialectic of fresh and savoriness coupled with an energy that has vaulted her into the stratosphere of Willamette Valley producers.
The vineyard that she’s best known for is Maresh—a top site in the Dundee Hills and within that, her block-designated bottlings are especially coveted. We’ve got some of her “Star of Bethlehem Flower Block” bottling arriving on Friday, which is perhaps the most Chambolle-like of the bunch. The 2018 reflects the fantastic quality of the vintage and is one of the best iterations yet. Like all of Kelley’s top wines, this is only available in limited quantities.
Arriving Friday:
Kelley Fox Wines Maresh Vineyard Star of Bethlehem Flower Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 95+ points “The 2018 Star-Of-Bethlehem Flower Block pinot from Kelley Fox is another gorgeous example of the vintage. The wine shows lovely ripeness on both the nose and palate, without every losing that inimitable delicacy that I think of as the calling card for this cuvée. The bouquet wafts from the glass in a refined mix of cherries, wild strawberries, beetroot, a hint of raw cocoa, a refined base of soil, hints of hazelnut, gentle oak, peonies and rose petals. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, refined and elegant, with a superb core of fruit, lovely transparency and grip, suave tannins and a long, complex and light on its feet finish. Though the soil signatures are completely different, this is always the Kelley Fox bottling that strikes me as the most spiritually aligned with les Amoureuses in Chambolle-Musigny. It is a stunning young wine in 2018. 2026-2065+.”
Looking for other Kelley Fox block-designate Pinot? We’ve got a few bottles of a few wines (some with age) in stock now:
Kelley Fox Wines Maresh Vineyard Red Barn Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Editor’s Choice. From a selection of the original vines at this heritage vineyard, which was planted in the early 1970s, this is densely layered with strawberry, raspberry and cherry fruit. Details are well-integrated, bringing light notes of toasted coconut and caramel. The texture and mouthfeel express the little extras that old vines, when handled properly, can deliver.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “(100 percent whole clusters) Limpid ruby-red. Highly perfumed, mineral-tinged raspberry, candied cherry, incense and floral oil scents develop a spicy accent with air. Juicy, sweet and light on its feet, offering concentrated red fruit, blood orange and floral pastille flavors that slowly fan out as the wine opens up. The mineral and floral notes drive an extremely long, energetic finish that features silky tannins and a subtle touch of candied orange peel.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Kelley Fox Wines Maresh Vineyard Red Barn Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($119.95) $95 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Winemaker’s note “2018 is my last bottling of the Red Barn Blocks. I am deeply thankful for the gift of being able to produce wines from these blocks over the years. To be released later, most likely in early 2020, is the Maresh Vineyard Royal Ann Block, and I’ll write about that when the time comes. I’ll say now that I couldn’t be more happy about that block and the 2018. I worked with that block for ten years as the winemaker for Scott Paul Wines. The 2018 Red Barn Blocks is almost identical in appearance to the Maresh 2018, except it is slightly deeper. It, too, has the classic Maresh nose of Hood strawberries and some spice (perhaps from the 50% whole cluster). But the nose is a bit more open and has the freshness that evokes the ozone-filled air after a spring thunderstorm. The mouth is juicy and mouth-watering, This wine has splendour, and is a real beauty.”
Rare Wines from Lucien Le Moine
Lucien Le Moine (the nom de plume for Mounir and Rotem Saouma) is one of the hottest names in Burgundy. The rise has been meteoric due to the scarcity of the wines (Mounir wants to keep production under 100 barrels) and also the fact that they only work with grand and premier cru vineyards (with the exception of a tiny amount of Bourgogne).
To understand why the Le Moine wines are so exceptional, the first thing to understand is that the house doesn’t make, or set out to make, anything close to average wine. Jaspar Morris MW calls them a “haute-coture negociant” and just like a high end designer, they want everything they do to make a statement. Souma has sought out the finest vineyards possible and presides over them with a luxurious house style, heavily influenced by the wines of Henri Jayer.
That style produces exceptionally sensual wines—wines that have textures like silk and explosive fruit that seems to arrive in waves from nowhere. They’re the opposite of rustic—polished and luxurious. These are wines that any wine lover should covet and take pains to acquire for their cellar.
The acquiring part is always the problem—the wines are made in tiny quantities. You only have to look at reviews to see phrases like “8 cases imported” before realizing that any chance to buy these must be seized. We have secured an impressive assortment (though each wine is limited in quantity) arriving next month, so don’t wait—these sorts of opportunities don’t come around often.
Arriving ETA August:
Only twelve bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Les Grandes Ruchottes, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “This bold version offers a vibrant structure, saturated with butterscotch, lanolin, vanilla, apricot and lemon aromas and flavors. Almost too much of a good thing, until the finish subsides, leaving a clean aftertaste of lemon and mineral. Best from 2022 through 2032. 8 cases imported. — BS”
To understand why the Le Moine wines are so exceptional, the first thing to understand is that the house doesn’t make, or set out to make, anything close to average wine. Jaspar Morris MW calls them a “haute-coture negociant” and just like a high end designer, they want everything they do to make a statement. Souma has sought out the finest vineyards possible and presides over them with a luxurious house style, heavily influenced by the wines of Henri Jayer.
That style produces exceptionally sensual wines—wines that have textures like silk and explosive fruit that seems to arrive in waves from nowhere. They’re the opposite of rustic—polished and luxurious. These are wines that any wine lover should covet and take pains to acquire for their cellar.
The acquiring part is always the problem—the wines are made in tiny quantities. You only have to look at reviews to see phrases like “8 cases imported” before realizing that any chance to buy these must be seized. We have secured an impressive assortment (though each wine is limited in quantity) arriving next month, so don’t wait—these sorts of opportunities don’t come around often.
Arriving ETA August:
Only twelve bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Les Grandes Ruchottes, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “This bold version offers a vibrant structure, saturated with butterscotch, lanolin, vanilla, apricot and lemon aromas and flavors. Almost too much of a good thing, until the finish subsides, leaving a clean aftertaste of lemon and mineral. Best from 2022 through 2032. 8 cases imported. — BS”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Only twelve bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Les Charmes, Meursault Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 95 points “Complex lime blossom, lemon oil, clove and white peach aromas and flavors are the hallmarks of this fragrant and intense white. Dense and tightly wound, with a creamy texture and plenty in reserve. Terrific length. Best from 2022 through 2032. 15 cases imported. — BS”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only six bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Echezaux Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML ($349.95) $299 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 95 points “Black cherry and black currant flavors are framed by sweet, toasted oak in this stylish red. Ripe and polished, with sweet fruit and bright acidity offsetting a solid base of tannins. Firms up on the finish, boding well for a long future. Fine length. Best from 2021 through 2042. 41 cases imported. — BS”
Burghound 91-94 points “This is the first wine to this point to display any appreciable amount of wood though it’s not so much as to fight with the spicy and ripe nose of cassis, dark cherry and Asian-style tea aromas. There is once again a lovely sense of energy to the velvet-textured and seductive middle weight flavors that possess a solidly well-muscled but refined and stony finish where a touch of youthful austerity arises. This well-balanced effort will need a few years of cellar time but will probably be approachable after only 5 to 7 years.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only eighteen bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Les Vaucrains, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($169.95) $136 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Lean and concentrated, displaying wild cherry, kirsch and mineral flavors. Turns supple with air, yet remains firmly structured, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit and chalky, mineral elements. Best from 2019 through 2030. 20 cases imported. — BS”
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2013 Nuits St Georges 1er Cru les Vaucrains has a precise bouquet that is more floral and more expressive than the Les Saint Georges at this stage. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp chalky tannin, very good acidity and a long and persistent tensile finish. This would be my pick of the domaine’s three NSG ’13s based on the barrel samples. This just struts its stuff with a bit more gumption.”
Burghound 91-94 points “An overtly sauvage infused nose reflects notes of red and dark currant, various floral elements and plenty of spice and pungent earth aromas. Here too there is excellent volume and intensity to the powerful, concentrated and palate coating flavors that conclude in an explosively long, serious and exceptionally firm yet not particularly austere finish. This is terrific but note that it’s a good buy only if you have plenty of patience.”
Only six bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Les Grands Epenots, Pommard Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 92-94 points “Bright, dark red. Less purely black on the nose than the Epenots, showing enticing spicy lift to its raspberry and mint aromas. At once sweet and brisk in the mouth, with its red berry flavors complicated by notes of honeysuckle and citrus fruits. This penetrating, energetic wine boasts a tight core of fruit and terrific definition. Finishes energetic, classy and long, with noble tannins.”
Burghound 91-93 points “Here too the super-fresh nose is expressive with a redder fruit profile that is laced with plenty of earth and spice along with a hint of wood. The more refined middle weight flavors are notably less mineral-inflected though more seductive, all wrapped in a balanced and beautifully persistent finish.”
Only six bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Clos des Chenes, Volnay Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 92+ points “The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes unwinds in the glass with a deep bouquet of cassis, plums, incense and smoked meats, framed by a generous application of spicy oak. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, muscular and structured, with a concentrated core of fruit, lively acids and fine but firm structuring tannins. While this is not austere to the point of causing concern, it certainly won’t be approachable young. So, readers contemplating this Clos des Chênes should factor in a decade’s patience.”
Burghound 90-93 points “A well-layered nose combines notes of red and dark currant, spice and a pretty hint of lavender. The denser, serious and more powerful big-bodied flavors brim with both dry extract and minerality that carries over to the super-intense, youthfully austere and linear finish. This very firm effort also needs to develop more depth but if it does this could be a first-rate Clos des Chênes.”
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 91-93 points “Dark red-ruby. More serious on the nose than the Pitures Dessus, with its currant, chocolate, menthol and oak aromas complicated by a mineral quality. Sappy and chewy on the palate, with flavors of redcurrant, mocha and tobacco leaf conveying a red-clay character. The firmly structured finish shows surprising freshness and lift, not to mention excellent length.”
Lucien Le Moine Les Vaucrains, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($169.95) $136 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Lean and concentrated, displaying wild cherry, kirsch and mineral flavors. Turns supple with air, yet remains firmly structured, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit and chalky, mineral elements. Best from 2019 through 2030. 20 cases imported. — BS”
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2013 Nuits St Georges 1er Cru les Vaucrains has a precise bouquet that is more floral and more expressive than the Les Saint Georges at this stage. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp chalky tannin, very good acidity and a long and persistent tensile finish. This would be my pick of the domaine’s three NSG ’13s based on the barrel samples. This just struts its stuff with a bit more gumption.”
Burghound 91-94 points “An overtly sauvage infused nose reflects notes of red and dark currant, various floral elements and plenty of spice and pungent earth aromas. Here too there is excellent volume and intensity to the powerful, concentrated and palate coating flavors that conclude in an explosively long, serious and exceptionally firm yet not particularly austere finish. This is terrific but note that it’s a good buy only if you have plenty of patience.”
Only six bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Les Grands Epenots, Pommard Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 92-94 points “Bright, dark red. Less purely black on the nose than the Epenots, showing enticing spicy lift to its raspberry and mint aromas. At once sweet and brisk in the mouth, with its red berry flavors complicated by notes of honeysuckle and citrus fruits. This penetrating, energetic wine boasts a tight core of fruit and terrific definition. Finishes energetic, classy and long, with noble tannins.”
Burghound 91-93 points “Here too the super-fresh nose is expressive with a redder fruit profile that is laced with plenty of earth and spice along with a hint of wood. The more refined middle weight flavors are notably less mineral-inflected though more seductive, all wrapped in a balanced and beautifully persistent finish.”
Only six bottles available
Lucien Le Moine Clos des Chenes, Volnay Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 92+ points “The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes unwinds in the glass with a deep bouquet of cassis, plums, incense and smoked meats, framed by a generous application of spicy oak. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, muscular and structured, with a concentrated core of fruit, lively acids and fine but firm structuring tannins. While this is not austere to the point of causing concern, it certainly won’t be approachable young. So, readers contemplating this Clos des Chênes should factor in a decade’s patience.”
Burghound 90-93 points “A well-layered nose combines notes of red and dark currant, spice and a pretty hint of lavender. The denser, serious and more powerful big-bodied flavors brim with both dry extract and minerality that carries over to the super-intense, youthfully austere and linear finish. This very firm effort also needs to develop more depth but if it does this could be a first-rate Clos des Chênes.”
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 91-93 points “Dark red-ruby. More serious on the nose than the Pitures Dessus, with its currant, chocolate, menthol and oak aromas complicated by a mineral quality. Sappy and chewy on the palate, with flavors of redcurrant, mocha and tobacco leaf conveying a red-clay character. The firmly structured finish shows surprising freshness and lift, not to mention excellent length.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
The Saouma family also has a Chateauneuf based project and we’ve secured some of their excellent Cotes du Rhone Village “Inopia”—arriving at the end of the month. It’s a do-not-miss Rhone wine that should appeal to lovers of both powerful Rhone wines and robust Burgundy.
Arriving ETA Late July:
Rotem & Mounir Saouma Cotes du Rhone Villages ‘Inopia’ Rouge, Rhone 2016 750ML ($39.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Rotem & Mounir Saouma Cotes du Rhone Villages ‘Inopia’ Rouge, Rhone 2016 750ML ($219.95) $165 pre-arrival special (that’s only $27.50/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “Bright raspberry and cherry coulis flavors stream through, laced with light floral and lavender notes. Moderate in scale but seductive in feel. Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre, Counoise, Syrah and Cinsault. Drink now through 2021. 150 cases imported.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Trending Wines
You won’t mistake this for Chianti—it’s powerful, rich and lush. Pure Washington.
Charles Smith CasaSmith Cinghiale Sangiovese, Wahluke Slope 2018 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “Also terrific, the 2018 Sangiovese Cinghiale has complex, savory notes of dried herbs, new leather, and ripe cherries. Medium-bodied and seamless on the palate, with no hard edges, it’s another wine under this label that delivers the goods at a great price. Drink it over the coming 4-6 years as well.”
Charles Smith CasaSmith Cinghiale Sangiovese, Wahluke Slope 2018 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “Also terrific, the 2018 Sangiovese Cinghiale has complex, savory notes of dried herbs, new leather, and ripe cherries. Medium-bodied and seamless on the palate, with no hard edges, it’s another wine under this label that delivers the goods at a great price. Drink it over the coming 4-6 years as well.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $21
The average listed price is $21
This, on the other hand, is classic Chianti Classico.
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($299.95) $239 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.”
The score isn’t a misprint, nor is the price. Act accordingly.
Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc, Maule Valley 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc, Maule Valley 2019 750ML ($249.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94+ points “2019 was a milder year than 2018, and the 2019 Cenizas de Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc is marginally more civilized than the 2018 I tasted next to it. It was kept with the lees in the fermentation vessel for some eight months. Even so, in this part of much cooler Maule, the differences between vintages tend to be more subtle, and 2019 is not a warm vintage, just less cold. Perhaps the wine is a little rounder, more citrusy than herbal and surprisingly has lower alcohol than the 2018 I tasted next to it. It has terrific balance on the palate, with acidity that still makes you salivate and is effervescent but perhaps not as sharp as colder years. It’s a balanced vintage, and the wine feels very complete and precise. 18,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2019. He has moved from screwcap to natural cork in 2019, as he thinks it will result in higher complexity as the wine ages in bottle. Bravo!”
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($299.95) $239 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.”
The score isn’t a misprint, nor is the price. Act accordingly.
Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc, Maule Valley 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc, Maule Valley 2019 750ML ($249.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94+ points “2019 was a milder year than 2018, and the 2019 Cenizas de Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc is marginally more civilized than the 2018 I tasted next to it. It was kept with the lees in the fermentation vessel for some eight months. Even so, in this part of much cooler Maule, the differences between vintages tend to be more subtle, and 2019 is not a warm vintage, just less cold. Perhaps the wine is a little rounder, more citrusy than herbal and surprisingly has lower alcohol than the 2018 I tasted next to it. It has terrific balance on the palate, with acidity that still makes you salivate and is effervescent but perhaps not as sharp as colder years. It’s a balanced vintage, and the wine feels very complete and precise. 18,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2019. He has moved from screwcap to natural cork in 2019, as he thinks it will result in higher complexity as the wine ages in bottle. Bravo!”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Staff favorite!
Mellen Meyer Sparkling Brut Nature Willamette Valley NV 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
VinopolNote: Based on the 2017 vintage, this is a leaner style of Champagne-method sparkling wine. Disgorged February 2020. Sourced from dry-farmed vineyards.
Mellen Meyer Sparkling Brut Nature Willamette Valley NV 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
VinopolNote: Based on the 2017 vintage, this is a leaner style of Champagne-method sparkling wine. Disgorged February 2020. Sourced from dry-farmed vineyards.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
The best deal in Washington Cab got even better with a case special.
Substance ‘Cs’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2018 750ML ($17.95) $14.50 special
Case-12 Substance ‘Cs’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2018 750ML ($219.95) $159 special (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
James Suckling 93 points “This has the wonderful, dark-fruit and olive character of a ripe cabernet sauvignon, but the polished tannins fold over the wine. It’s full-bodied, yet agile and focused at the finish. Real wine for the money. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
The average price nationally is $16
The average price nationally is $16
Collector’s Corner
New Wines from Emidio Pepe
Abruzzo is an Italian wine region best known for two standout producers: Valentini and Emidio Pepe. Both deliver world-class bottlings, but we’re focusing on the latter today, with two new offerings for you.
Pepe’s wines are known for their unique blend of rusticity, power and just enough polish to highlight their remarkable vibrancy and complexity. The Montepulciano is a wine that has powerful, rich fruit and beautiful, spicy/gamey aromatics and is seemingly capable of aging forever. The Trebbiano is made from old selections of Trebbiano Abruzzese—a rare clonal selection that provides wines of depth and complexity rarely found in their neck of the woods. It’s hard for us to acquire these wines and we’re excited to offer them to you today.
Arriving ETA August:
Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2017 750ML ($499.95) $419 pre-arrival special (that’s only $69.83/bottle!)
Italian Release
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 94 points “This is one of the cornerstone producers of the Abruzzo, a winery that follows strict tradition but that also appeals to every new generation of wine drinker that encounters a bottle. The wines of Emidio Pepe are in a word, timeless. The 2017 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo flaunts its pedigree with elegant aromas of black fruit, smoke, tar and powdery licorice. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo fares well in the hot vintages such as 2017 thanks to the cool mountain climates of the region, and not only do you get deep textural richness here, the acidity is beautifully preserved and fresh as well. The tannins are firm and polished, all followed by delicate little accents of dried herb and crushed stone.”
Pepe’s wines are known for their unique blend of rusticity, power and just enough polish to highlight their remarkable vibrancy and complexity. The Montepulciano is a wine that has powerful, rich fruit and beautiful, spicy/gamey aromatics and is seemingly capable of aging forever. The Trebbiano is made from old selections of Trebbiano Abruzzese—a rare clonal selection that provides wines of depth and complexity rarely found in their neck of the woods. It’s hard for us to acquire these wines and we’re excited to offer them to you today.
Arriving ETA August:
Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2017 750ML ($499.95) $419 pre-arrival special (that’s only $69.83/bottle!)
Italian Release
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 94 points “This is one of the cornerstone producers of the Abruzzo, a winery that follows strict tradition but that also appeals to every new generation of wine drinker that encounters a bottle. The wines of Emidio Pepe are in a word, timeless. The 2017 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo flaunts its pedigree with elegant aromas of black fruit, smoke, tar and powdery licorice. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo fares well in the hot vintages such as 2017 thanks to the cool mountain climates of the region, and not only do you get deep textural richness here, the acidity is beautifully preserved and fresh as well. The tannins are firm and polished, all followed by delicate little accents of dried herb and crushed stone.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Emidio Pepe Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2017 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Italian Release
Ian D’Agata – Vinous 93 points “Bright yellow. Apple jelly, lime, lemon curd and sweet herbs on the captivating nose. Then mellow and suave, featuring flavors similar to the aromas and a hint of gingery spiciness on the long, juicy finish. A lovely result from a very hot year, and one of the better Trebbiano d’Abruzzo wines from Emidio Pepe in recent memory.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Thanks for reading!