New Week – New Arrivals; Staff Pick: Keber; Trending Picks; Summer Soiree Case Specials: Robust Reds and Crisp Whites; April Sales Recap; Maximin Grunhauser; Late Breaking News: Valdicava 2010 Brunello Arriving Friday!
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New Week – New Arrivals
Oregon
Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvee Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2015 375ML ($19.95) $16 special
Bjornson Vineyard Auxerrois, Eola-Amity Hills 2015 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Winery note “Our priorities are simple: care for the land, make exceptional wine, and enjoy life’s journey. To support these goals we use soft farming practices to protect the ecosystem in the vineyard, and gentle wine making methods to create elegant, balanced wines. Auxerrois, pronounced aus ser whah, is a ’sister’ of chardonnay and grown primarily in Alsace, Germany and Luxembourg.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $19.99
The next best price is $19.99
Bjornson Vineyard Rosé ‘Argenta,’ Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Bjornson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Wine Spectator 91 points “Supple, expressive and generous, positioning the blueberry, currant, pomegranate and spice flavors against polished tannins, finishing with presence and transparency. Drink now through 2021.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Supple, expressive and generous, positioning the blueberry, currant, pomegranate and spice flavors against polished tannins, finishing with presence and transparency. Drink now through 2021.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Bjornson Vineyard Pinot Noir ‘Edward’ Barrel Selection, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Firm, with peppery tannins around a sleek core of black cherry and plum flavors, gliding into a long, harmonious and open-textured finish. Best from 2018 through 2024.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Firm, with peppery tannins around a sleek core of black cherry and plum flavors, gliding into a long, harmonious and open-textured finish. Best from 2018 through 2024.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Beaux Freres ‘The Beaux Freres Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($99.95) $86 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Beaux Freres The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Josh Raynolds 95 points “Limpid ruby-red. Explosive, mineral-accented aromas of red berry liqueur, cherry cola, vanilla and potpourri, accompanied by a sexy floral overtone that gains strength as the wine opens up. Juicy, concentrated and expansive on the palate, offering intense black raspberry, cherry compote and floral pastille flavors and a touch of cola. Displays an extremely impressive interplay of power and finesse, showing a seamless texture and a firm mineral spine. A strikingly long, sappy finish features smooth, sneaky tannins, resonating florality and a lingering suggestion of five-spice powder.”
Josh Raynolds 95 points “Limpid ruby-red. Explosive, mineral-accented aromas of red berry liqueur, cherry cola, vanilla and potpourri, accompanied by a sexy floral overtone that gains strength as the wine opens up. Juicy, concentrated and expansive on the palate, offering intense black raspberry, cherry compote and floral pastille flavors and a touch of cola. Displays an extremely impressive interplay of power and finesse, showing a seamless texture and a firm mineral spine. A strikingly long, sappy finish features smooth, sneaky tannins, resonating florality and a lingering suggestion of five-spice powder.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Beaux Freres Zena Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($79.95) $68 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Brilliant ruby-red. Ripe, spice-tinged blackberry, vanilla and sassafras on the deeply perfumed, expansive nose. Intense dark berry liqueur flavors are lifted and sharpened by smoky minerality and pick up a five-spice powder quality with aeration. Concentrated as well as energetic and focused, finishing with impressive length and sexy notes of candied violet and smoky spices.”
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Brilliant ruby-red. Ripe, spice-tinged blackberry, vanilla and sassafras on the deeply perfumed, expansive nose. Intense dark berry liqueur flavors are lifted and sharpened by smoky minerality and pick up a five-spice powder quality with aeration. Concentrated as well as energetic and focused, finishing with impressive length and sexy notes of candied violet and smoky spices.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Washington
Orin Swift Papillon Red, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Robert Parker 94 points “The 2014 Bordeaux Proprietary Blend Papillion (15,748 cases) was aged 16 months in 40% new French oak. Fairly priced for what the consumer gets, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc (15.1% alcohol) exhibits notes of forest floor, graphite, blackcurrant, blackberry fruit and spring flowers followed by a full-bodied, unctuously textured, deep, rich pure wine to drink over the next 10-15+ years.”
Robert Parker 94 points “The 2014 Bordeaux Proprietary Blend Papillion (15,748 cases) was aged 16 months in 40% new French oak. Fairly priced for what the consumer gets, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc (15.1% alcohol) exhibits notes of forest floor, graphite, blackcurrant, blackberry fruit and spring flowers followed by a full-bodied, unctuously textured, deep, rich pure wine to drink over the next 10-15+ years.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
The average price is $68
The average price is $68
California
Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, California 2013 750ML ($159.95) $138 special
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a towering majestic wine. Rich, powerful and yet massively tannic, the 2013 possesses a stunning combination of super-ripe fruit, bright acids and plenty of supporting structure. In the early going, the Howell Mountain is a bit reticent, especially next to the Trailer, but after several hours, the vibrancy of the Howell Mountain bottling dazzles. Dunn’s Howell Mountain Cabernet is without question one of the wines of the great 2013 vintage.”
Antonio Galloni 98+ points “The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a towering majestic wine. Rich, powerful and yet massively tannic, the 2013 possesses a stunning combination of super-ripe fruit, bright acids and plenty of supporting structure. In the early going, the Howell Mountain is a bit reticent, especially next to the Trailer, but after several hours, the vibrancy of the Howell Mountain bottling dazzles. Dunn’s Howell Mountain Cabernet is without question one of the wines of the great 2013 vintage.”
Guarachi Family Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
Antonio Galloni 93 points “[$80 list] The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Broken Rock is one of the best wines I have tasted from Guarachi. A host of graphite, smoke, lavender and plum notes open up in the glass, followed by a kick of serious 2013 tannins that gives the wine much of its pulsating energy and vibrancy. Saline notes continues through to the bright finish. The Broken Rock brings fruit intensity and minerality together in a delicious, full-throttle Cabernet that is going to need a few years in the cellar to fully come together. Still, the 2013 is impressive, even today.
James Suckling 92 points “A red with a pretty density of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Full body, solid tension and a flavorful finish. The finish is exciting. Drink now.”
Robert Parker 91 points “The beautiful 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc) has a deep ruby/purple color and a sweet nose of spring flowers, blueberry and blackcurrant fruit. On the palate the wine is medium to full-bodied, pure, lush and impressive. This is a nice surprise from a winery I had not previously experienced. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.”
Antonio Galloni 93 points “[$80 list] The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Broken Rock is one of the best wines I have tasted from Guarachi. A host of graphite, smoke, lavender and plum notes open up in the glass, followed by a kick of serious 2013 tannins that gives the wine much of its pulsating energy and vibrancy. Saline notes continues through to the bright finish. The Broken Rock brings fruit intensity and minerality together in a delicious, full-throttle Cabernet that is going to need a few years in the cellar to fully come together. Still, the 2013 is impressive, even today.
James Suckling 92 points “A red with a pretty density of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Full body, solid tension and a flavorful finish. The finish is exciting. Drink now.”
Robert Parker 91 points “The beautiful 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc) has a deep ruby/purple color and a sweet nose of spring flowers, blueberry and blackcurrant fruit. On the palate the wine is medium to full-bodied, pure, lush and impressive. This is a nice surprise from a winery I had not previously experienced. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Gallo Winery Winemaker’s Signature Series Chardonnay, Russian River Valley 2012 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Robert Parker 93 points “The Signature Series 2012 Chardonnay Russian River comes across like a French Bâtard-Montrachet. This was aged 14 months in French oak, of which 70% was new, the wine underwent 100% malolactic, and has much higher alcohol at 14.6%. Notes of hazlenut, buttery popcorn, caramelized citrus, honeysuckle, peach and a touch of pineapple are followed by a full-bodied, pure, impressive wine to drink over the next 5-7 years.”
Robert Parker 93 points “The Signature Series 2012 Chardonnay Russian River comes across like a French Bâtard-Montrachet. This was aged 14 months in French oak, of which 70% was new, the wine underwent 100% malolactic, and has much higher alcohol at 14.6%. Notes of hazlenut, buttery popcorn, caramelized citrus, honeysuckle, peach and a touch of pineapple are followed by a full-bodied, pure, impressive wine to drink over the next 5-7 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Gallo Winery Winemaker’s Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Robert Parker 93+ points “Another outstanding effort coming from primarily Napa Valley, but with a small amount from Sonoma Valley fruit, is their blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Petite Sirah. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon spent 19 months in 43% new French oak and 15% new American oak. A big wine from this great vintage for Bordeaux varieties, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon has a good 25-30 years of upside to it. Coming from all of the estate vineyards – most of it from the William Hill Estate, but some from Monte Rosso, this wine offers a dense, opaque bluish purple color, notes of pen ink, graphite, blackberry and blueberry, a big full-bodied, fleshy texture (15% natural alcohol) and a long finish with plenty of structured tannin and good acidity. This is a wine that proves what superb quality Gallo can produce even at the top of the hierarchy.”
Robert Parker 93+ points “Another outstanding effort coming from primarily Napa Valley, but with a small amount from Sonoma Valley fruit, is their blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Petite Sirah. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon spent 19 months in 43% new French oak and 15% new American oak. A big wine from this great vintage for Bordeaux varieties, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon has a good 25-30 years of upside to it. Coming from all of the estate vineyards – most of it from the William Hill Estate, but some from Monte Rosso, this wine offers a dense, opaque bluish purple color, notes of pen ink, graphite, blackberry and blueberry, a big full-bodied, fleshy texture (15% natural alcohol) and a long finish with plenty of structured tannin and good acidity. This is a wine that proves what superb quality Gallo can produce even at the top of the hierarchy.”
France – Rhone
Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable, Rhone 2013 750ML ($49.95) $33 special
Case-12 Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable, Rhone 2013 750ML ($539.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Dark ruby. Candied red berries, cherry compote and potpourri on the highly pungent nose; a mineral element adds vivacity. Energetic black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors show excellent clarity and a hint of licorice pastille that builds as the wine opens up. The energetic finish repeats the floral and mineral notes, while supple tannins lend shape and grip.”
Case-12 Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable, Rhone 2013 750ML ($539.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Dark ruby. Candied red berries, cherry compote and potpourri on the highly pungent nose; a mineral element adds vivacity. Energetic black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors show excellent clarity and a hint of licorice pastille that builds as the wine opens up. The energetic finish repeats the floral and mineral notes, while supple tannins lend shape and grip.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Patrick Jasmin Côte Rôtie 2010 1.5L ($159.95) $128 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Vivid ruby. Suave, floral-accented scents of black raspberry, redcurrant and Asian spices, with a bright mineral component. Pure, elegant and lively, with excellent lift and focus to its bright red fruit. Finishes with intense flavors of cherry and licorice, with a brisk mineral quality and very silky tannins. This wine clocks in at 12.9% alcohol, by the way.”
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Vivid ruby. Suave, floral-accented scents of black raspberry, redcurrant and Asian spices, with a bright mineral component. Pure, elegant and lively, with excellent lift and focus to its bright red fruit. Finishes with intense flavors of cherry and licorice, with a brisk mineral quality and very silky tannins. This wine clocks in at 12.9% alcohol, by the way.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $139.95
The next best price is $139.95
Spain
Bodegas Avancia Cuvee de O Godello, Valdeorras O 2015 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special
Robert Parker 90 points “The 2015 Avancia Cuvee De O Godello is aged in 500- to 600-liter demi muids and after a portion is fermented in oak (with a small portion fermented in neutral oak and the rest in stainless steel), the wine spends eight months sur lie with 80% aging in stainless steel and the rest in oak. The 2015 is a beauty – with notes of honeysuckle, delicate flowers, crisp, honeyed citrus such as lemons, impressive minerality, a medium body and long finish. It is dry and pure. This is a beauty to drink over the next year or so, although I suspect it may last longer.”
Robert Parker 90 points “The 2015 Avancia Cuvee De O Godello is aged in 500- to 600-liter demi muids and after a portion is fermented in oak (with a small portion fermented in neutral oak and the rest in stainless steel), the wine spends eight months sur lie with 80% aging in stainless steel and the rest in oak. The 2015 is a beauty – with notes of honeysuckle, delicate flowers, crisp, honeyed citrus such as lemons, impressive minerality, a medium body and long finish. It is dry and pure. This is a beauty to drink over the next year or so, although I suspect it may last longer.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $14.48
The next best price is $14.48
Bodegas Avancia Cuvee de O Mencia, Valdeorras 2014 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(initially fermented in large stainless steel tanks, with malo in French oak barrels followed by six months of aging in the same casks before bottling): Deep ruby. Mineral-accented cherry, blackcurrant and licorice scents are complemented by a hint of dark chocolate. Coats the palate with vibrant dark berry and spicecake flavors complemented by candied lavender and licorice. Smoothly melds power and finesse and finishes on a youthfully tannic note, with very good persistence and repeating floral character. Offers serious bang for the buck.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $14.89
The next best price is $14.89
Bodegas Avancia Mencia, Valdeorras 2014 750ML ($41.95) $26 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “(fermented and aged in new French oak for 14 months): Bright purple. High-pitched cherry and blue fruit scents are complemented by a suggestion of candied lavender and accented by white pepper. Silky and sweet on the palate, offering intense boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors and a repeating lavender quality. Blends richness and vivacity with a deft hand and closes subtly tannic, with excellent focus and mineral-driven persistence. These vines were reportedly planted between 1902 and 1920 at an altitude of nearly 1,500 feet.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $43.17
The next best price is $43.17
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Staff Pick
Saul:
The Collio, an area of northeastern Italy not far from the Austrian and Slovenian borders, has turned into one of my favorite places in the world for white wines. If you’re unfamiliar with the wines (or if you aren’t, to be frank) there’s no better wine to drink this time of year than Edi Keber’s Collio Bianco. It’s made from a blend of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and a touch of Malvasia and displays a remarkable dialectic between richness and lightness. There’s an intense, full mouthfeel (though no noticeable oak) that’s married to gorgeous aromatics and a rippling undercurrent of minerality and freshness. It’s gotta be one of the best under $25 whites I’ve had in a while, and it’s only under $25 here…
The Collio, an area of northeastern Italy not far from the Austrian and Slovenian borders, has turned into one of my favorite places in the world for white wines. If you’re unfamiliar with the wines (or if you aren’t, to be frank) there’s no better wine to drink this time of year than Edi Keber’s Collio Bianco. It’s made from a blend of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and a touch of Malvasia and displays a remarkable dialectic between richness and lightness. There’s an intense, full mouthfeel (though no noticeable oak) that’s married to gorgeous aromatics and a rippling undercurrent of minerality and freshness. It’s gotta be one of the best under $25 whites I’ve had in a while, and it’s only under $25 here…
Edi Keber Collio Bianco, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2015 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 27 bottles available
Importer note “Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Slovenian border, Edi Keber’s 10 hectares of vineyards grow on the classic “ponka” soil, a stony, friable marl that gives the wines remarkable weight and body. Extremely poor, the “ponka” naturally stresses the vines which produce very small quantities of grapes and provide a distinctive minerality, typical of the Collio region. Keber’s first bottled wines date back to 1957, although his family, originally from Vienna, has made wine for 350 years. Edi deeply believes in the unique character of the Collio terroir and his objective is to make, starting with the 2008 vintage, only one white wine that will embody the tradition of the Collio by blending the three varieties that have been grown in the area since before the two great wars: Friulano, providing for body and structure, Malvasia Istriana to impart the aromatic component and Ribolla Gialla for its acidity. Edi’s young son, Kristian, follows his father’s maverick footsteps helping in every aspect of the production. The grapes are picked at their highest possible maturity levels and are then fermented and matured in old cement vats, which according to Edi, add an element of “soul” to the wine as opposed to the sterility of stainless steel. Keber’s wines are deep, intense, long-lived, where generous fruit and terroir blend seamlessly. The total production is 60.000 bottles.”
Importer note “Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Slovenian border, Edi Keber’s 10 hectares of vineyards grow on the classic “ponka” soil, a stony, friable marl that gives the wines remarkable weight and body. Extremely poor, the “ponka” naturally stresses the vines which produce very small quantities of grapes and provide a distinctive minerality, typical of the Collio region. Keber’s first bottled wines date back to 1957, although his family, originally from Vienna, has made wine for 350 years. Edi deeply believes in the unique character of the Collio terroir and his objective is to make, starting with the 2008 vintage, only one white wine that will embody the tradition of the Collio by blending the three varieties that have been grown in the area since before the two great wars: Friulano, providing for body and structure, Malvasia Istriana to impart the aromatic component and Ribolla Gialla for its acidity. Edi’s young son, Kristian, follows his father’s maverick footsteps helping in every aspect of the production. The grapes are picked at their highest possible maturity levels and are then fermented and matured in old cement vats, which according to Edi, add an element of “soul” to the wine as opposed to the sterility of stainless steel. Keber’s wines are deep, intense, long-lived, where generous fruit and terroir blend seamlessly. The total production is 60.000 bottles.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $32
The next best price is $32
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Trending
Thierry Triolet Cuvee Grande Reserve Blanc de Blancs, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $29 special, 35 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(11 g/l dosage): Pale gold. Intense citrus and orchard fruit aromas are complicated by notes of honeysuckle, tarragon and iodine. Chewy tangerine and pear skin flavors become silkier and spicier with aeration. Shows a seductive floral quality on the clinging finish, which features a dusty mineral nuance and a touch of buttered toast.” JR
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(11 g/l dosage): Pale gold. Intense citrus and orchard fruit aromas are complicated by notes of honeysuckle, tarragon and iodine. Chewy tangerine and pear skin flavors become silkier and spicier with aeration. Shows a seductive floral quality on the clinging finish, which features a dusty mineral nuance and a touch of buttered toast.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $38
The average price is $38
Cameron Winery Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
From the Producer: Ribbon Ridge Pinot noir. Fruit for this wine is sourced from 2 vineyards in the Ribbon Ridge AVA, Foster Farms and Armstrong. Foster Farms was planted in 2006 and is lovingly tended by famed cider apple grower Alan Foster. Armstrong vineyard was recently converted to dry-farmed grapes. Fruit from Ribbon Ridge is always intense with loads of structure in the wine.
From the Producer: Ribbon Ridge Pinot noir. Fruit for this wine is sourced from 2 vineyards in the Ribbon Ridge AVA, Foster Farms and Armstrong. Foster Farms was planted in 2006 and is lovingly tended by famed cider apple grower Alan Foster. Armstrong vineyard was recently converted to dry-farmed grapes. Fruit from Ribbon Ridge is always intense with loads of structure in the wine.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
April Sale Wine!
Inman Family Wines OGV Olivet Grange Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2010 750ML ($49.95) Was $33, Now $28, 32 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 93 points “(made with one-half whole clusters and 12.5% alcohol): Bright ruby-red. A heady, spice-accented bouquet displays scents of strawberry preserves, potpourri and incense, complemented by a lively note of white pepper. Silky, spicy and lithe, with an alluring sweetness and bright mineral cut to its intense red fruit and floral pastille flavors. Pure and seamless pinot, with great upfront appeal and a delicacy that hearkens to the Old World. The “OGV” here stands for Olivet Grange Vineyard, the Inmans’ home property. They are unable to use the word “Grange” in the wine name because of legal challenges.” ST
Inman Family Wines OGV Olivet Grange Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2010 750ML ($49.95) Was $33, Now $28, 32 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 93 points “(made with one-half whole clusters and 12.5% alcohol): Bright ruby-red. A heady, spice-accented bouquet displays scents of strawberry preserves, potpourri and incense, complemented by a lively note of white pepper. Silky, spicy and lithe, with an alluring sweetness and bright mineral cut to its intense red fruit and floral pastille flavors. Pure and seamless pinot, with great upfront appeal and a delicacy that hearkens to the Old World. The “OGV” here stands for Olivet Grange Vineyard, the Inmans’ home property. They are unable to use the word “Grange” in the wine name because of legal challenges.” ST
This is the only listing in the USA today!
April Sale Wine!
Matthews Winery Reserve, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) Was $51.90, Now $48, 24 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “Another sensational wine is the 2013 Reserve, which is largely Cabernet Sauvignon blended with 28% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, aged 21 months in new French oak. It reveals fabulous purity of fruit and full-bodied richness, as well as textbook Bordeaux-like notes of black currants, cassis, lead pencil shaving and leafy herbs. It shows more and more tannin with time in the glass, but it never loses its overall sense of elegance and purity.”
Matthews Winery Reserve, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) Was $51.90, Now $48, 24 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “Another sensational wine is the 2013 Reserve, which is largely Cabernet Sauvignon blended with 28% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, aged 21 months in new French oak. It reveals fabulous purity of fruit and full-bodied richness, as well as textbook Bordeaux-like notes of black currants, cassis, lead pencil shaving and leafy herbs. It shows more and more tannin with time in the glass, but it never loses its overall sense of elegance and purity.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $59.99
The next best price is $59.99
Xavier Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Reserve VII IX X NV 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 27 bottles available
Wine Advocate 96 points “While I reviewed this NV Châteauneuf du Pape La Reserve VII IX X (a blend from the 2007, 2009 and 2010 vintages) last year, I was able to taste it again this go around, and it still blew me away. Fabulously full-bodied and decadent, with loads of lavender, incense, black raspberry and cured-meat nuances, it’s still youthful and vibrant, with notable freshness and purity. Enjoy this brilliant wine through 2028.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “While I reviewed this NV Châteauneuf du Pape La Reserve VII IX X (a blend from the 2007, 2009 and 2010 vintages) last year, I was able to taste it again this go around, and it still blew me away. Fabulously full-bodied and decadent, with loads of lavender, incense, black raspberry and cured-meat nuances, it’s still youthful and vibrant, with notable freshness and purity. Enjoy this brilliant wine through 2028.”
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Robust Reds and Crisp Whites
Featured Case Specials
For Your Next (or First?) Summer Soiree
Case-12 Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($279.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($26.95) $21.90 special
100% Chardonnay from Collet’s Grand Cru & Premier Cru Pargues Vineyards
Importer note “Romain vinifies his base wines completely in steel before bottling and the addition of liqueur de tirage, and allows the wine to sit on its lees for fifteen months before disgorgement and a minute dosage, allowing the fruit of his pedigreed family vineyards to express itself. The wine is as precise as a bell and as refreshing as spring water; on the nose there is orange blossom, copper minerals and gardenia. The palate is as vinous and minerally as his superb still Chablis. The finish is dry, almost saline with caressing, gentle mousse and flavors of oyster shells, apricot and key lime. Disgorged July 2015. Enjoy this beauty as an aperitif, or with Dungeness crab, salt cod gratin or pasta carbonara.”
Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($26.95) $21.90 special
100% Chardonnay from Collet’s Grand Cru & Premier Cru Pargues Vineyards
Importer note “Romain vinifies his base wines completely in steel before bottling and the addition of liqueur de tirage, and allows the wine to sit on its lees for fifteen months before disgorgement and a minute dosage, allowing the fruit of his pedigreed family vineyards to express itself. The wine is as precise as a bell and as refreshing as spring water; on the nose there is orange blossom, copper minerals and gardenia. The palate is as vinous and minerally as his superb still Chablis. The finish is dry, almost saline with caressing, gentle mousse and flavors of oyster shells, apricot and key lime. Disgorged July 2015. Enjoy this beauty as an aperitif, or with Dungeness crab, salt cod gratin or pasta carbonara.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.95
The next best price is $24.95
Case-12 Weingut Jos. Christoffel Jr. Christoffel-Prum Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2014 750ML ($219.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Weingut Jos. Christoffel Jr. Christoffel-Prum Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2014 750ML ($27.95) $18 special
“Kajo Christoffel’s 2014 Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett is clearly characterized by honey-sweet botrytis flavors along with dried fruit and overripe Riesling flavors on the nose. Light in alcohol (7.5%), round and racy on the palate, this is a lush and juicy, very aromatic Riesling with a delicate acidity and a lingering minerality in the finish. Should be cellared for six or ten years.” –Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate
VinopolNote: Erdener Treppchen slops southward, allowing long stretches of exposure. The soil comprises of deep layers of iron-infused slate, steeply terraced from the river’s banks up to the rough and rocky summit of nearby hills. The vineyard’s terrain inspired the name, based off of ‘treppe’, or ‘staircase’, in German.
Weingut Jos. Christoffel Jr. Christoffel-Prum Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2014 750ML ($27.95) $18 special
“Kajo Christoffel’s 2014 Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett is clearly characterized by honey-sweet botrytis flavors along with dried fruit and overripe Riesling flavors on the nose. Light in alcohol (7.5%), round and racy on the palate, this is a lush and juicy, very aromatic Riesling with a delicate acidity and a lingering minerality in the finish. Should be cellared for six or ten years.” –Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate
VinopolNote: Erdener Treppchen slops southward, allowing long stretches of exposure. The soil comprises of deep layers of iron-infused slate, steeply terraced from the river’s banks up to the rough and rocky summit of nearby hills. The vineyard’s terrain inspired the name, based off of ‘treppe’, or ‘staircase’, in German.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $21.99
The next best price is $21.99
Case-12 Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay, Sonoma County 2014 750ML ($319.95) $233 special (that’s only $19.41/bottle!)
Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay, Sonoma County 2014 750ML ($29.95) $20.90 special
California Grapevine 90 points –‘Very highly recommended’–“Medium-light golden yellow; assertive, citrussy, baked apple aroma with hints of vanilla and baking spices; medium to medium-full body; fleshy, apple and white peach flavors with spicy notes, and nicely balanced with bright acidity; lingering aftertaste. 14.5% alcohol; 100% barrel fermented; 100% malolactic fermentation.” (Jan 2016)
Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay, Sonoma County 2014 750ML ($29.95) $20.90 special
California Grapevine 90 points –‘Very highly recommended’–“Medium-light golden yellow; assertive, citrussy, baked apple aroma with hints of vanilla and baking spices; medium to medium-full body; fleshy, apple and white peach flavors with spicy notes, and nicely balanced with bright acidity; lingering aftertaste. 14.5% alcohol; 100% barrel fermented; 100% malolactic fermentation.” (Jan 2016)
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $28
The average price is $28
Case-12 Buil & Gine 17-XI, Montsant, Spain 2014 750ML ($249.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Buil & Gine 17-XI, Montsant, Spain 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Brilliant ruby. Highly perfumed, evoking ripe cherry and blackcurrant that are complemented by slowly emerging aromas of cured meat, lavender and minerals. Enlivened by a spicy nuance, the silky, sweet and penetrating palate offers intense dark fruit and floral pastille flavors. Seamless and very nicely concentrated, with smooth tannins lending shape to a very long, fruit-driven finish.” JR
Buil & Gine 17-XI, Montsant, Spain 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Brilliant ruby. Highly perfumed, evoking ripe cherry and blackcurrant that are complemented by slowly emerging aromas of cured meat, lavender and minerals. Enlivened by a spicy nuance, the silky, sweet and penetrating palate offers intense dark fruit and floral pastille flavors. Seamless and very nicely concentrated, with smooth tannins lending shape to a very long, fruit-driven finish.” JR
Case-12 Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable, Rhone 2013 750ML ($599.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable, Rhone 2013 750ML ($49.95) $33 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Dark ruby. Candied red berries, cherry compote and potpourri on the highly pungent nose; a mineral element adds vivacity. Energetic black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors show excellent clarity and a hint of licorice pastille that builds as the wine opens up. The energetic finish repeats the floral and mineral notes, while supple tannins lend shape and grip.”
Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable, Rhone 2013 750ML ($49.95) $33 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Dark ruby. Candied red berries, cherry compote and potpourri on the highly pungent nose; a mineral element adds vivacity. Energetic black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors show excellent clarity and a hint of licorice pastille that builds as the wine opens up. The energetic finish repeats the floral and mineral notes, while supple tannins lend shape and grip.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $39
The next best price is $39
Case-12 Bodegas Triton Tridente Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon, Spain 2015 750ML ($249.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Bodegas Triton Tridente Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon, Spain 2015 750ML ($19.95) $18 special
Robert Parker 94 points “The 2015 Triton Tinta De Toro is a stunning wine from this relatively modest appellation and vineyard owned by Jorge Ordoñez and his partners. The wine, 100% Tinto de Toro, spent eight months sur lie in Burgundy and Bordeaux barrels. It is a killer example of Toro, which produces relatively full-throttle, intense wines from ungrafted vines. This beauty, inky purple in color, offers up notes of graphite, forest floor, blackberry and cassis in a full-bodied, pedal-to-the-metal, long, rich and concentrated style. At $20.00 it is a remarkable value and probably capable of lasting up to a decade, although there is no reason to defer your gratification.”
Bodegas Triton Tridente Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon, Spain 2015 750ML ($19.95) $18 special
Robert Parker 94 points “The 2015 Triton Tinta De Toro is a stunning wine from this relatively modest appellation and vineyard owned by Jorge Ordoñez and his partners. The wine, 100% Tinto de Toro, spent eight months sur lie in Burgundy and Bordeaux barrels. It is a killer example of Toro, which produces relatively full-throttle, intense wines from ungrafted vines. This beauty, inky purple in color, offers up notes of graphite, forest floor, blackberry and cassis in a full-bodied, pedal-to-the-metal, long, rich and concentrated style. At $20.00 it is a remarkable value and probably capable of lasting up to a decade, although there is no reason to defer your gratification.”
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April Sales Recap
The Matthews Estate Red, Inman Pinot Noir and Peter Lauer Senior Riesling are going fast, along with many of our forty-four wines on sale now through the month of April. Don’t miss your chance to snag a great deal!
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Maximin Grunhauser
A Wine & Spirits Top Mosel Estate in 2016
“This is C. von Schubert’s 12th appearance as a Top 100 Winery, its wines again proving the special character of its land alongside the Ruwer River.” –Wine & Spirits Magazine
After twelve years at the helm, cellar master Stefan Kraml has reached new heights of excellence at this iconic estate. He has embraced the richer and plusher aromatics and body of the ever warmer vintages, and adapted the winemaking to highlight the natural expressions of the grapes. Kraml uses longer lees contact to add nuance and texture, resulting in wines that are exotically flavored with an underlying lush body, whether dry or sweet. He has also shifted fermentation into small stainless steel vessels and neutral oak to allow the aromatics of the grapes to shine. The vineyards are organically farmed with low yields and all hand harvesting. Weingut Maximin Grünhaus has produced extraordinary Rieslings since Medieval times and continues to produce internationally celebrated wines.
We’re proud to carry one of the largest selections from this famed estate, with ten selections available here now and two more arriving this month. You can read full reviews and order all twelve wines on our web store. Browse our four in-stock top picks below!
Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2015 750ML ($31.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles available
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “Harvested at 86° Oechsle, this offers a rather smooth Spätlese-styled nose of pear, cassis, ginger, star anise, flowers and flinty slate. The wine is on the rich and round side on the palate (by Kabinett standards of this Estate) but already hints at the elegance and finesse to come. This offers a long and beautifully refined nose of herbs and spices. The overall structure is still rather reduced and backward and we expect this beauty to only truly shine at maturity. So patience is required! 2025-2040.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Spatlese, Mosel 2015 750ML ($37.95) $29 special, 32 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Lots of crème brûlée and pastry notes in this languid style, which offers accents of roasted almond and coconut meat. The finish has a pear tart flavor that lingers. Drink now through 2040.”
Mosel Fine Wines 93+ points “Harvested at 93° Oechsle, this offers a rather reduced nose of spices, herbs and cassis. The wine is gorgeously elegant and fresh on the palate and leaves a stunning feel of herbs and zesty citrusy fruits in the long and mouth-watering finish. This is a superb effort with great upside potential. 2025-2045.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Lots of crème brûlée and pastry notes in this languid style, which offers accents of roasted almond and coconut meat. The finish has a pear tart flavor that lingers. Drink now through 2040.”
Mosel Fine Wines 93+ points “Harvested at 93° Oechsle, this offers a rather reduced nose of spices, herbs and cassis. The wine is gorgeously elegant and fresh on the palate and leaves a stunning feel of herbs and zesty citrusy fruits in the long and mouth-watering finish. This is a superb effort with great upside potential. 2025-2045.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $33
The average price is $33
Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Superior Riesling, Mosel 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 23 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “Very clear and smoky on the still discreet and yeasty-flavored, dense nose, the 2014 Maximin Grünhäuser Abtsberg Riesling Superior is a very elegant and round, finesse-full and persistent Riesling; it has a long and salty, very complex but beautifully fine, yet firmly structured and great finish. Impressive Riesling for the next 25 or 30 or more years.”
Wine & Spirits 92 points “Since Kraml came on in 2004, he’s weaned the vines off of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, dropped yields and moved to ambient yeast fermentations, many of which he does in traditional, large oak fuder made from the estate’s own trees. He’s also introduced the “Superior” wines, made in a traditional feinherb style, fermented in fuder and bottled with a little residual sugar. In 2014, the treatment seems to magnify the character of each vineyard, and lends the wines extra strength. The Abtsberg emphasizes the filigreed delicacy and peach scents common to the fruit off its cool blue slate, as well as the profundity of its mineral flavors. It’s not recognizably sweet; rather, this is sugar as muscle, making the best of a vintage short on sun.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “Very clear and smoky on the still discreet and yeasty-flavored, dense nose, the 2014 Maximin Grünhäuser Abtsberg Riesling Superior is a very elegant and round, finesse-full and persistent Riesling; it has a long and salty, very complex but beautifully fine, yet firmly structured and great finish. Impressive Riesling for the next 25 or 30 or more years.”
Wine & Spirits 92 points “Since Kraml came on in 2004, he’s weaned the vines off of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, dropped yields and moved to ambient yeast fermentations, many of which he does in traditional, large oak fuder made from the estate’s own trees. He’s also introduced the “Superior” wines, made in a traditional feinherb style, fermented in fuder and bottled with a little residual sugar. In 2014, the treatment seems to magnify the character of each vineyard, and lends the wines extra strength. The Abtsberg emphasizes the filigreed delicacy and peach scents common to the fruit off its cool blue slate, as well as the profundity of its mineral flavors. It’s not recognizably sweet; rather, this is sugar as muscle, making the best of a vintage short on sun.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Auslese 24, Mosel 2015 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 32 bottles available
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “This offers gorgeous scents of peach and herbs on the nose. Star anise, ginger and coconut join the flavors on the creamy yet racy palate and leave a superbly racy, cassis and mint-infused feel in the long finish. What a beauty! 2025-2050.”
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “This offers gorgeous scents of peach and herbs on the nose. Star anise, ginger and coconut join the flavors on the creamy yet racy palate and leave a superbly racy, cassis and mint-infused feel in the long finish. What a beauty! 2025-2050.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Below is the complete list of all in-stock and pre-arrival Maximin Grounhauser wines. Visit our web store to shop online!
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Late Breaking News
Arriving Friday
Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2010 750ML ($149.95) $89 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 99 points “Absolutely stunning aromas of nectarine, orange peel, sweet black cherry, plums and flowers. Licorice and mushroom It’s full body, with layers of ultra-fine tannins and hints of tangy acidity. Such beautiful length and beauty to this wine. It’s powerful and structured yet shows a gorgeous finesse and length. Truly wondrous. So long and refined. The texture is phenomenal. Better in 2016.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “Effusive aromas of incense, green olive, sweet strawberry and cherry, licorice and leather mark this structured version. The tannins are on the beefy side, but this finishes long, with enough fruit and spice for balance. Best from 2018 through 2032.”
James Suckling 99 points “Absolutely stunning aromas of nectarine, orange peel, sweet black cherry, plums and flowers. Licorice and mushroom It’s full body, with layers of ultra-fine tannins and hints of tangy acidity. Such beautiful length and beauty to this wine. It’s powerful and structured yet shows a gorgeous finesse and length. Truly wondrous. So long and refined. The texture is phenomenal. Better in 2016.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “Effusive aromas of incense, green olive, sweet strawberry and cherry, licorice and leather mark this structured version. The tannins are on the beefy side, but this finishes long, with enough fruit and spice for balance. Best from 2018 through 2032.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $126
The average price is $126
Talbott Vineyards ‘Logan’ Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands 2014 750ML ($24.95) $18.80 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Pale gold. Pungent aromas of poached pear, peach and honey take on a hint of buttered toast with air. Broad and fleshy on the palate, offering lush orchard and pit fruit flavors accented by a refreshingly bitter pear skin nuance. Finishes smooth and round, leaving sweet butter and peach notes behind.”
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Pale gold. Pungent aromas of poached pear, peach and honey take on a hint of buttered toast with air. Broad and fleshy on the palate, offering lush orchard and pit fruit flavors accented by a refreshingly bitter pear skin nuance. Finishes smooth and round, leaving sweet butter and peach notes behind.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Brancaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Chianti Classico Riserva hits all the high notes expected of this historic denomination. The wine is brimming with cherry fruit and luscious darkness with spice, leather and unsweetened chocolate. The blend is 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot, and the wine is aged in medium toast barrique (both new and neutral) for 16 months. Like the other successful interpretations from this classic vintage, this expression reveals an impressive sense of balance. If I had to make a 2013 Chianti Classico short list, this wine would be on it.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Chianti Classico Riserva hits all the high notes expected of this historic denomination. The wine is brimming with cherry fruit and luscious darkness with spice, leather and unsweetened chocolate. The blend is 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot, and the wine is aged in medium toast barrique (both new and neutral) for 16 months. Like the other successful interpretations from this classic vintage, this expression reveals an impressive sense of balance. If I had to make a 2013 Chianti Classico short list, this wine would be on it.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Brancaia Tre Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16.60 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 92 points “Lots of vivid spice, meat and dark berry fruit. Full body, fine tannins and bright acidity. Better than the 2012. Drink now.”
James Suckling 92 points “Lots of vivid spice, meat and dark berry fruit. Full body, fine tannins and bright acidity. Better than the 2012. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
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Thank you for reading!