“I buy these grapes from Dr. Andolsen, our long-time friend (over 20 years) and family doctor. His vineyard is on the west side of Dry Creek in the rolling hills of the coastal range in Sonoma County, and he always allows me to select grapes from my favorite blocks. It’s a great piece of land and the wine it makes offers an elegant, yet ripe, rich cherry characteristic that I always associate with this appellation.”
– Ed Sbragia (pictured above with his son and co-winemaker, Adam)
Sbragia Cabernet Sauvignon Andolsen Vineyard 2010 ($39.95) $27 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Andolsen Vineyard is utterly impeccable from start to finish. Firm mountain tannins provide the backdrop as this expressive, powerful wine gradually reveals its personality. Iron, tobacco and licorice notes dominate, while the fruit takes a little longer to become evident. With time in the glass, the wine gets better and better, as sweet floral notes and an attractive upper register opens up. Still, this remains a fairly bold, muscular Cabernet Sauvignon that could use another handful of years in the cellar. The 2010 is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc from a parcel in Dry Creek owned by the Sbragias’ family doctor. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2030.”
The average listed price is $32 / bottle~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New Arrival Special Feature
Landmark California Cabernets
Limited Quantity
In Stock and Available Now
Dominus Estate Napa Valley Red 2002 ($299.95) $249 special only 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 99 points “This 2002 was virtually perfect when I tasted it in early May (2012). Even better than I predicted seven years ago, this 4,500-case blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot has blossomed beautifully, revealing even greater intensity and potential than I predicted. A flawless, seamless integration of tannin, wood, alcohol and acidity is found in this dense, plum/purple-colored Dominus, along with copious notes of sweet black currants interwoven with kirsch, forest floor, unsmoked cigar tobacco, new saddle leather and forest floor. Full-bodied with velvety tannins, stunning elegance and a 45-second finish, this sensational 2002 rivals two of the all-time great wines made at Dominus, 1991 and 1994. It is hard to believe that proprietor Christian Moueix’s Dominus Estate has already celebrated its 25th anniversary and is moving toward 30 years with the 2012-2013 vintages. The 2002 will drink well for another 20 years. ”
Hundred Acre Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard 2007 ($599.95) $499 special only 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 100 points “A perfect wine, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard (1,300 – 1,400 cases) from Howell Mountain is one of the great efforts from this high elevation terroir. It offers notes of burning embers, black raspberries, blueberries and flowers, a full-bodied opulence, wonderful intensity, but the wine is not weighty or overripe. Fleshy and voluptuous with terrific floral notes, it should drink well for 15-20 years. From meticulous harvesting berry by berry rather than grape bunch by grape bunch, to an obsessive/compulsive barrel regime as well as winemaking, Hundred Acre is the Napa outpost of visionary and a genius – Jayson Woodbridge”
The average listed price is over 35% higher at $690 / bottle
Harlan Estate 2002 ($1199.95) $999 special only 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 100 points “The extraordinary Harlan Estate, which I awarded 100 points seven years ago, offers no justifiable reason to doubt its perfect score. It is still a baby, with an inky purple color and notes of smoky camphor intermixed with creme de cassis, Asian soy and a hint of cedar beginning to emerge as well as some espresso and subtle damp forest floor notes. The wine has awesome intensity, a full-bodied mouthfeel, a skyscraper-like texture, and a finish that goes on for close to a minute. This is a perfect wine, still youthful and young, and not even in full adolescence as of 2012. It has 40 or more years ahead of it, but should hit its plateau of full maturity in another 5-10 years. It is certainly one of the most showy , flamboyant and remarkable Harlan Estates made to date. (More recently, the 2007 tends to resemble this wine more than any other vintage I can think of.) Kudos to Bill Harlan!”
WASHINGTON
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 750ML ($249.95) $219 special
Robert Parker 97 points “A smidge more evolved than the 2002, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, mostly from the famed Champoux Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. It offers a rock star bouquet of blackberry liqueur, cassis, dried licorice, spice and roasted meats to go with a full-bodied, concentrated, yet incredibly polished and elegantly textured mouthfeel. Blockbuster stuff that has everything, it is still youthful and vibrant and has another decade or more of longevity, although I see no reason to delay gratification. Drink now-2023.”
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 750ML ($299.95) $259 special
Robert Parker 98 points “Almost as good as the 2003, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc that spent 22 months in 100% new French oak. Its youthful purple/ruby color is followed by gorgeously complex and intense aromas of wild herbs, exotic spices, caramelized beef, licorice and layers of sweet black fruits and creamy black cherry-like nuances. Full-bodied, rich and incredibly youthful, it opens up beautifully in the glass and is a total thrill ride of a Washington State Cabernet. I’d enjoy bottles over the coming decade, but it will hold longer. Drink now-2027. ”
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 750ML ($319.95) $279 special
Robert Parker 100 points “Another wine I’ve had multiple times recently, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon (97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot) is pure perfection in a glass and yields off-the-hook aromatics of cassis, black raspberries, tobacco leaf, pepper and licorice. Deep, layered and even elegant, with a seamless texture that conceals the sheer wealth of material present, it builds through the mid-palate, possesses huge amounts of extract and masses of polished tannin on the finish. Despite the overall size, it never loses its Cabernet Sauvignon soul and has an almost Bordeaux-like savoriness and tannic frame. Still young (yet gorgeous none the less), it can be enjoyed now or cellared for another 10-15+ years. Drink now-2028. ”
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 750ML ($299.95) $249 special
Robert Parker 98 points “Also offering off-the-charts richness, with a flamboyant, hedonistic profile, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon (96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc) possesses spice-laced aromas and flavors of cassis, smoke tobacco, roasted meats, dried licorice and wild herbs that are to die for. Full-bodied, incredibly layered, rich and textured it has no hard edges, masses of tannin and a finish that won’t quit. I’ve been lucky enough to taste this cuvee three times (rated 96 and 97) in the past handful of weeks and this was the best showing yet. From a cool vintage, it is still youthful and vibrant, and will continue to shine for another 15+ years. Drink now-2028. ”
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 750ML ($319.95) $279 special
Robert Parker 100 points “From a hot vintage and incredible any way you look at it, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon has that laser-like focus of a cooler year, yet the voluptuousness and richness of a warmer year. Smoked black fruits, coffee, truffle and pen ink-like aromas and flavors all emerge from this massive, incredibly full-bodied effort and on the palate, it carries itself perfectly with a weightless, yet decadent texture, masses of polished tannin and blockbuster length. More classic and textbook than the 2007, it is every bit as good. Enjoy it over the coming two decades or more. Drink now-2033. ”
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 750ML ($249.95) $219 special
Robert Parker 96 points “The most evolved of the lineup, with complex spice box, wild herbs, dried flowers, currants and scorched earth aromas all emerging from the glass, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is beautifully textured, full-bodied and seamless on the palate. Up-front and approachable, it nevertheless has the back-end richness, depth and structure to continue to evolve for another decade or more. Drink now-2023. ”
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 750ML ($319.95) $279 special
Robert Parker 100 points “A monumental wine in the making, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of those wines that presents such an over the top array of aromas and flavors that it’s hard to figure out what you think about it with just a quick glance. It’s only with the second or third sip that you really start to see how special this effort truly is. Offering up perfumed, intense aromas of plum, violets, ink, licorice and black currants, it flows onto the palate with a massive, incredibly full-bodied texture that builds through the mid-palate and carries layers of polished tannins, awesome purity of fruit and blockbuster length. Most likely not for everyone given the sheer size, it is an incredible wine in my opinion. Still tasting like a barrel sample, it will have 30+ total years of longevity. Drink 2017-2037. ”
CALIFORNIA
Kapcsandy Cabernet Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard 2012 ($599.95) $499 special only 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 100 points “The bottled 2012s are all performing brilliantly. It was a large, but not excessive crop with a consistently warm growing season that never suffered the heat spikes Napa often experiences. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is the greatest example of this cuvée since the 2007. Bottled without fining or filtration, this blend of 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot tips the scales at 14.1% natural alcohol. There are 320 cases. The Kapcsandys have hit the bull’s eye with this beauty. A stunning set of aromatics consisting of white chocolate, blackcurrant liqueur, cedarwood, graphite, incense and melted licorice is followed by a beautifully integrated, seamless, full-bodied classic. With terrific fruit purity, a touch of spice, and a voluptuously textured, super-pure, extravagant mouthfeel, this well-balanced 2012 can be drunk young because of the stylistic precociousness of this vintage or cellared for two decades.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
Kapcsandy Rapszodia Napa Valley Red 2012 750ML ($349.95) $279 special only 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2012 Rapszodia (only the third vintage of this cuvée) is composed of 90% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. The Kapcsandy family considers this to be their Yountville version of the famous St.-Emilion, Château Cheval Blanc. Coming in at a modest 13.4% natural alcohol and aged 20 months in 100% new French oak, there are only 135 cases of this beauty. This is the kind of wine that showcases just how great Cabernet Franc can be in Napa Valley. It builds incrementally on the palate, offering beautiful aromas of mulberries, boysenberries, forest floor and spring flowers. Ripe, medium to full-bodied, elegant, pure and open-knit, this seductive, complex 2012 can be drunk over the next 10-15 years.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
Kapcsandy Roberta’s Reserve Napa Valley Red 2012 750ML ($549.95) $479 special only 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 99 points “The 2012 Roberta’s Reserve (100% Merlot aged 20 months in 100% new French oak). It is a bigger wine with 14.5% alcohol. It comes from a block of 10-year-old vines planted in heavy clay soils. Stunning aromatics include notes of mocha, chocolate fudge, black cherries and berry fruit intertwine with hints of incense, burning embers and charcoal. This full-bodied, opulent, lavishly rich, voluptuously textured Merlot is about as great as Napa Merlot can be. Enjoy it over the next 15-20 years.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
FRANCE
Serafin Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($349.95) $279 special
Antonio Galloni 94-96 points “The 2012 Charmes-Chambertin represents a major step up from the rest of the wines in the range. Totally spherical and seamless on the palate, the 2012 captures the richness of the year, with impeccable polish and depth. A decidedly explosive Charmes, the 2012 isn’t especially subtle in showing off its pedigree. There is a lot to look forward to here. Sadly production is down 50%.”
Gerard Boulay Sancerre 2012 375ML ($17.95) $14 special
Gerard Boulay Sancerre Monts Damnes 2012 750ML ($44.95) $33 special
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The unfiltered 2012 Sancerre Montes Damnés is slightly less elegant but even more expressive compared to the Clos de Beaujeu. Sourced from 40-year-old vines rooting deep in stony limestone soils of the Kimméridgien in one of the most famous sites of the Sancerrois, it reflects its origin impressively on both nose and palate. It is a clear, deep, substantial and full-bodied wine with a refreshing citrus, pineapple and crushed-rock flavor. Aged for a year in used barrels and based on a structuring and inviting minerality, the refined acidity is well integrated into the rich, fruity and elegant texture and takes this expressive, well-balanced wine to an aromatic length with delicate flavors of citrus and white fruits. Quite accessible already, this complex, expressive classic can (should) age for another 5 or 6 years at least.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA! The average listed price is $41 / bottle.
Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf Du Pape 2012 750ML ($119.95) $99 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “What I think might end up being the best Beaucastel since the 1990 or 2001, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape offers a full-bodied, decadent style to go with awesome black and blue fruits, garrigue, licorice, crushed flowers and violets. The purity here is truly something, and it has fabulous mid-palate concentration, building tannin and massive texture. Given all of the fruit and texture here, it will no doubt drink well in its youth, but it should still be alive and kicking after two decades as well.”
Domaine du Colombier Crozes-Hermitage Cuvee Gaby 2012 750ML ($37.95) $26.60 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The top Crozes cuvee is the 2012 Crozes Hermitage Cuvee Gaby, with is 100% Syrah that’s aged all in a combination of new and used barrels. It’s a fantastic Syrah that offers a classic, elegant and medium to full-bodied profile to go with notions of peppery herbs, olive tapenade and assorted currant-like fruit. Possessing beautiful purity, fine tannin and a no shortage of texture, drink this knockout effort over the coming 8-10 years.”
Domaine du Colombier Crozes-Hermitage 2012 750ML ($24.95) $18 special
Wine Advocate 89 points “A classic Northern Rhone Syrah, the 2012 Crozes Hermitage has lots of saddle leather, dried flowers and sweet red and black fruit-like qualities on the nose. Medium-bodied, supple, forward and even a little sexy, drink this beauty over the coming 4-5 years.” WA
Marc Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Importer notes “In 1976, Pierre Plouzeau bought the family property, renovated the castle and replanted the vineyards. In 1989, a modern winery was born as well as a wine “Chinon Château de la Bonnelière.” His son, Marc, took over the domain in 1999, continuing to develop, going fully organic and perfecting the cellar. Today it is a must-Chinon vineyard. The vineyard of 20 ha is divided into three types of soil (gravel, Clay limestone and flint clay) that give rise to very different wines.”
ITALY
Oddero Barbaresco Gallina 2010 750ML ($59.95) $45 special
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2010 Barbaresco Gallina shows a browning rim at the perimeter and delivers gamey tones of worn leather, old spice, cedar, dried fruit and black currant. There’s a bright touch of dried apricot or lemon peel at the back. The wine is softly measured and smooth in the mouth with long tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2018.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
Oddero Barolo 2010 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 93 points Top 100 of 2014 #39 “Lushly textured, this red cuts a rich swath of spicy plum and cherry flavors, with accents of leather and tobacco, until the beefy tannins corral all the elements on the finish. Balanced on the tannic side, this should find equilibrium with time. Best from 2018 through 2033.”
Oddero Barolo Brunate 2010 750ML ($119.95) $99 special
Wine Advocate & Wine Spectator 93 points “Expressive and forward, offering cherry, tar, menthol and spice accents. The tannins are dense and grippy, but this finds equilibrium in the end. Sweet at the core, but needs time to fully emerge. Best from 2018 through 2032.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
Oddero Barolo Rocche Di Castiglione 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 95 points “From light, well-draining limestone soils, the 2010 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a beautiful expression with loads of finesse and intensity. This is my favorite of the flight thanks to the great sense of varietal character. Balsam herb, ginger, medicinal herb, blue flower and spice find seamless integration. Drink: 2017-2035.”
Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
Oddero Barolo Villero 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Spectator 95 points “Silky and aromatic, boasting rose, cherry, strawberry and spice notes, this is well-structured and firm, yet beautifully balanced between fruit and woodsy flavors, revealing sweetness, tannins and a minerally aftertaste. Classic elegance from Castiglione Falletto. Best from 2017 through 2032. ”
SPAIN
Borsao Campo De Borja Tinto Garnacha 2013 750ML ($11.95) $8.80 special
Case-12 Borsao Campo De Borja Tinto Garncha 2013 750ML ($119.95) $89 case special
Robert Parker 89 points “Another steal in terms of wine value is the 2013 Garnacha, which is a 15,000-case blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Tempranillo that is fermented and aged in stainless steel. This special cuvée has been a huge success commercially for many years. Lots of strawberry, black cherry and fruitcake aromas intermixed with hints of earthy, sandy notes jump from the glass of this 2013. It reveals vivid, exuberant fruit, medium body, super purity and a wonderful, fresh, lively, boisterous, satisfying style. This Grenache fruit-bomb should be drunk over the next several years.”
Bodegas Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2012 750ml ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Bodegas Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2012 750ML ($239.95) $179 case special
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “(half fermented in French oak and half in stainless steel): Bright purple. Heady aromas of blueberry, cherry compote, white pepper and woodsmoke, plus an exotic cinnamon note. Fresh and seamless, offering vibrant blueberry and black raspberry flavors and suave floral notes. The spicy quality lingers seductively on the tenacious finish.”
Robert Parker 92 points “The terrific 2012 Tres Picos is one of the finest inexpensive, Grenache-based wines made in the world. This full-bodied beauty boasts a deep ruby color as well as loads of strawberry and black cherry fruit, hints of lavender and crushed rocks, sweet tannin, and a broad, savory mouthfeel. It, too, should be consumed over the next 3-4 years.”
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason.
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Winery of the Week
Leitz – Rheingau Riesling
Under the direction of Johannes Leitz, Weingut Josef Leitz has quickly earned a reputation as one of the top Rheingau producers. Leitz’s estate vineyards lie entirely on the westernmost part of the Rheingau in the Rüdesheimer Berg – a steep, south-facing hillside of extremely old slate and quartzite planted entirely to Riesling. The estate, established in 1744, was taken over by Johannes Leitz in 1985 after finishing his studies at acclaimed winemaking school Geisenheim.
When Johannes took over, Weingut Josef Leitz consisted of about seven acres. Today, the winery has grown to almost 70 acres in the top sites of Rüdesheim. Leitz carefully manages a strict collection of first growth Riesling vineyards in Rüdesheim, including Schlossberg, Rottland, and Roseneck, approaching each vineyard for its individual qualities and personality. The soils on this westernmost side of the Rheingau are composed of quartzite, very old gray slate, as well as some iron rich slate. With the 2011 vintage, Leitz began to designate the pre-1971 parcel names on select bottlings, highlighting his distinctive terroirs in parcels ‘Hinterhaus’ (Rottland), ‘Ehrenfels’ (Schlossberg), and ‘Katerloch’ (Roseneck). Johannes Leitz succeeds in producing wines that reflect the distinct terroir of his vineyards, wines of dense minerality that remain buoyant, fragrant, and texturally complex.
–Joel PayneIn Stock and Available Here Now
All at the Lowest Listed Price in the USA!
Leitz Rudesheimer Klosterlay Riesling Kabinett 2012 750 ($18.95) $14 special 22 bottles available
Terry Theise: “The `12 richness and weight gives a lot of middle to a wine that’s sometimes almost constricted by its Altoid mintiness; this really is the best vintage ever, loads of lemon and eucalyptus but with a dense doughy mirabelle cream and saltiness. Vinous and rich.”
Leitz Rudesheimer Kaisersteinfel Riesling 2011 750 ($59.95) $39 special 8 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Wild aromas of white peach, cinnamon and lemon oil. Delicately sweet passion fruit flavor nicely supported by bracing saline minerality. A note of bacony spice animates the tangy finish. One of the finest off-dry rieslings of the vintage.”
Leitz Rudesheimer Roseneck Riesling Katerloch 2012 750 ($39.95) $33 special 10 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “($42) Discreet aromas of white peach, sage and smoked almond. Glossy, dense apricot pit fruit with sweet herbal inflections animate the palate. The sheer depth and spicy juiciness of this wine ensure an impressively long finish. Has poise and potential.”
Leitz Rudesheimer Rottland Riesling Hinterhaus 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 special 6 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “($48) Rich herbal aromas of dried apricot, toasted hazelnut and bacon fat. Highly concentrated, unctuous yellow fruit flavors communicate an ideal balance of flesh and juiciness as well as noteworthy depth. Finishes with impeccable balance and formidable length.”
Leitz Rudesheimer Schlossberg Riesling Ehrenfels 2011 750 ($59.95) $41.90 special 3 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Vibrant aromas of peach pit, almond and clove. The ripe, crisp apricot fruit is well integrated into the wine’s salty, mineral frame. The savory finish brings nut oils and a sophisticated finesse into play. Still needs time.”
&
Domaine Tempier
American wine drinkers have recently become a bit more adventurous and thirsty for knowledge with wines exhibiting greater quality and more character. Bandol in particular has finally been receiving more and more attention, and rightfully so. For some, it is a ‘new’ region to explore and learn more about, but Bandol has quite the history, with the first vines being planted by the Romans over 2,500 years ago. Located within Provence and facing the Mediterranean Sea, Bandol is located just east of Marseille and about a 15 minute drive west of Toulon. The combination of silicon
and limestone soils, rocky landscapes, a warm coastal climate, ample amounts of sun and scarce rain, all help to create an ideal situation for Bandol’s ‘king grape’, the late ripening Mourvèdre.
There really is no other producer who is more identified with Bandol than Domaine Tempier. Back in the 1940s, Lucien Peyraud, Tempier’s guiding force, took it upon himself to re-establish Bandol as a meaningful appellation, after the horrible phylloxera epidemic. With the assistance of neighboring vignerons, in the 1940’s Lucien worked with the I.N.A.O. (Institut National des Appellations d’Origines) to establish Bandol as its own A.O.C. It’s been said that later on in the 70’s, Tempier was inspiring to Alice Waters, Richard Olney, Kermit Lynch, and others who truly kindled the American food and wine revolution.
Domaine Tempier is made up of a patchwork of vineyards, the main ones being La Migoua, La Tourtine and Cabassaou. La Migoua is made up of heterogeneous clay that varies in color between red, orange, and blue, sitting at the highest altitude of all the vineyards at 270 meters. La Migoua has the smallest amount of Mourvèdre in the blend with the highest percentage of Grenache. Surrounded by garrigue and pine forest, the grapes translate to earthy, herby,
gamey wines. La Tourtine sits just above Cabassaou and the soils here are more homogeneous with rich clay, producing powerful, tannic wines with gorgeous fruit characteristics. Cabassaou sits lower on the hillside, protected from the strength of the Mistral, enjoying temperate breezes and maximum sunshine. There is ripeness, density and power in these wines.
Soil management techniques are based on sustainable development principles avoiding the use of pesticides with the belief that nature must find its own biological balance. All grapes are hand harvested, destemmed and fermented with natural yeasts in stainless steel for 2-3 weeks. After pressing, the wines are matured for at least 18 months in giant oak foudres that hold 25–50 hectoliters (roughly 650-1,300 gallons). Old casks are progressively replaced by new ones in order to maintain a high level of quality, and the wines are bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Through their passion, pioneering, and advocacy for Bandol, the Peyrauds have become legendary. We are happy to be featuring this iconic winery this week, having just received the recently released 2012 vintage. This is a wonderful opportunity to open your mind, and expand your palate with wines full of history, character, and an extremely reasonable price tag, considering the quality. Do keep in mind that Bandol pairs extremely well with a hearty beef stew or lamb roast, in front of the fireplace or a campfire under the stars, a warm blanket, some classic music and…well, you get the idea.
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge 2012 750ML ($49.95) $38 special 3+ cases available
Domaine Tempier La Migoua Bandol 2012 750ML ($79.95) $69 special 12 bottles available
Domaine Tempier La Tourtine Bandol 2012 750ML ($79.95) $69 special 12 bottles available
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge 2009 750ML ($41.95) $36 special 2 bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “This is focused on its graphite and slate flavors, with crisp accents of dried raspberry and cherry in the background. Cream and cocoa powder notes linger on the refined finish, supported by medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2018.”
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge 2010 750ML ($39.95) $36 special 10 bottles available
Case- 12 Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge 2010 750ml ($519.95) $349 case price special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Notes of sanguine and rosemary line the core of taut cherry preserves and red currant paste. A singed alder hint flitters through the finish, showing good persistence. Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Carignan. Drink now through 2020.”
Domaine Tempier Cuvee Cabassaou Bandol 2010 750ML ($99.95) $79 special 1 bottle available
Wine Spectator 93 points “The pure, solid core of kirsch and blackberry pâte de fruit is studded with rosemary, bitter plum, ganache and anise notes. This slowly yields to extra juniper, iron and sanguine accents that play out through the long, layered finish. This needs time to unwind fully. Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault. Best from 2017 through 2020.”
Domaine Tempier La Tourtine Bandol 2011 750ML ($69.95) $59 special 19 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “Larger scaled and more textured and ripe, the 2011 Bandol La Tourtine is always a rough blend of 80% Mourvedre, 10% Grenache and 10% Cinsault. Possibly the wine of the vintage, it offers up blockbuster notes of black raspberry, currants, licorice and ground Provencal herbs to go with a medium to full-bodied, layered feel on the palate. Made in a forward, delicious (if not hedonistic) style, with loads of texture and a big finish, it too can be enjoyed anytime over the coming 15 years or more.”
Bastide Blanche Bandol Rouge 2011 750ML ($29.95) $24 special 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2011 Bandol offers up a similar, traditionally styled personality with ample spice, underbrush, ground herbs and assorted Mourvedre meatiness that’s balanced by beautiful black cherry and darker fruits. Medium to full-bodied, with juicy acidity and a fresh, focused feel, it will benefit from short term cellaring and have upwards of two decades of overall longevity. ”
Chateau De Pibarnon Bandol Rouge 2010 750ML ($59.95) $44 special 13 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “Moving to the classic cuvee and even more impressive (it was one of the top wines I was able to taste for this report), the 2010 Bandol, which is over 90% Mourvedre, sees partial destemming and aging in oak casks, offers both gorgeous aromatic complexity and superb richness and depth on the palate. Giving up notions of pepper, Provencal herbs, underbrush and leather, with a solid core of dark fruit, this medium to full-bodied, pure, layered and beautifully balanced effort needs another 2-3 years of bottle age, and will easily keep for a decade or more past that.”
Shop Online Now
www.vinopoliswineshop.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Staff Picks
“The Domaine des Frères Viale is a long family history in wine growing, that began just after the Great War. Although, it wasn’t until 1991 when they started bottling their own wine, that Domaine du Colombier was born. The wine, produced from vines all on their Domaine, is a classic Northern Rhone Syrah. Expressions of lush, dark fruit, and iron induced minerality. Soft, integrated tannins make this wine very approachable. A value at $18.”
Pingus PSI Ribera del Duero 2011 ($41.95) $33 special
“A rich, modern style red from Peter Sisseck of Pingus winery, in partnership with the local growers of Ribera del Duero. A full, round wine that is packed with dark fruit, plums and black cherry, earth and a subtle smoky quality. Aromas of blood orange and cranberry add a brightness to this powerful red. This is a deep, structured wine that will continue to hold up to bottle aging for atleast a couple of years for the flavors to truly emerge. With a little time or decanting, this will be the perfect wine for a nice steak dinner.”
2007 Piedmont
A warm and dry year that provided outstanding quality in a limited quantity, 2007 wines from Piedmont are just now entering their optimum drinking age. As the somewhat challenging vintage came to a close, producers were predicting a limited but extremely high quality vintage. Naturally reduced yields due to the dry weather and the warm, lengthy ripening season produced wines with excellent aromatics and rich tannins. The Barolos and Barbarescos of 2007 are enjoyed for the striking appeal present even in their youth, and are great wines to drink now or for mid-term further aging, providing a properly aged expression of the Nebbiolo grape without the typical 15-20 year waiting time. Enjoy!
Bartolo Mascarello Barolo 2007 750ml ($149.95) $99 special 20 bottles available
Wine Advocate 96 points “Mascarello’s 2007 Barolo flows from the glass with masses of round, enveloping fruit. This is an unusually soft, juicy Barolo from Mascarello that is remarkable for its textural richness and warm radiant fruit. The 2007 doesn’t have the aromatic complexity of the 2005 or 2006, but it makes up for that with its totally seductive personality. Crushed flowers, berries and sweet baking spices linger on a generous finish that evokes memories of the 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2032. ”
Cappellano Barolo Pie Rupestris 2007 750ML ($89.95) $79 special 25 bottles available
Clerico Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2007 750ML ($149.95) $119 special 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2007 Barolo Ciabot Mentin is one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted at this address. Deep, sensual layers of fruit flow from the glass as this full-throttle, intense Barolo reveals its profound, breathtaking personality. The 2007 shows tons of Ginestra nuance, but with extra dimensions to the fruit that literally covers every nook and cranny of the palate. Tasting this next to the 2006 is quite a comparison, as both wines are fabulous. Readers who can should be sure to own bottles of both. A side-by-side comparison is sure to be fascinating as the wines develop over the coming years. Astute readers will note the slight name change here, which is the result of new regulations that require the use of the historic vineyard name, in this case Ginestra, or a proprietary name. Call me nostalgic, but it is sad to see one of the iconic labels in Barolo disappear. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. ”
Elvio Cogno Barolo Ravera 2007 750ML ($59.95) $44 special 22 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2007 Barolo Ravera shows marvelous depth and richness, but is not hugely different from the Cascina Nuova, perhaps because the vintage has such a strong influence in both wines. It is a big, muscular Barolo endowed with layers of dark fruit, mocha, leather, licorice and smoke. A large, scaled dramatic finish rounds out this compelling, totally delicious Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”
Conterno Fantino Barolo Mosconi 2007 750ML ($99.95) $69 special 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2007 Barolo Mosconi offers up layers of dark fruit, espresso, licorice, new leather and French oak in an explosive style typical of this south-facing site. Here, too, the integration of the oak is superb. The Mosconi shows plenty of freshness and should drink well for at least another decade. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2027.”
Elio Altare Barolo 2007 750ML ($79.95) $66 special 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Barolo is simply breathtaking. A bouquet that recalls Pinot Noir melds into pure Nebbiolo fruit as this captivating, sensual Barolo reveals off its pedigree. This shows remarkable detail, nuance and sheer clarity, with gorgeous depth and a radiant, totally engaging personality. Most of the attention here is generally focused on the single-vineyard wines, but readers should not look past the straight Barolo, a wine that has built an extraordinary track record for developing beautifully in bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2027.”
Elio Altare Barolo Cerretta 2007 750ML ($149.95) $119 special 10 bottles available
Robert Parker 95 points “With the 2007 Barolo Cerretta Altare demonstrates the elegance that can be coaxed from this site in Serralunga. The Cerretta is the only Barolo Altare makes from vineyards outside his hometown of La Morra, but the house style nevertheless comes through in spades. Dark fruit, tar, licorice, smoke and scorched earth are some of the nuances that flow from this muscular, virile Barolo.”
Giacomo Borgogno Barolo 2007 1.5LITER ($219.95) $169 special 6 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2007 Barolo is gorgeous. In keeping with the style of the house, it boasts a considerably firm core of tannin that supports the fruit. There is plenty of 2007 intensity and richness in the glass, but those elements are balanced by the wine’s pure structure and inner tension. The 2007 can be enjoyed young if given some air, and it should drink nicely for a dozen years, if not longer. Even with all the tannin, I don’t see this being an especially long-lived Barolo.”
Giovanni Rosso Cerretta Barolo 2007 750ML ($69.95) $59 special 14 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Simply compelling from start to finish, exhibiting raspberry, cherry and floral aromas and flavors that are pure and focused, with support from the solid yet ripe tannins. This shows fruit and a silky texture up front, with structure on the back end, coming together on the long, fruit and spice tinged aftertaste. Best from 2015 through 2032.”
Elio Grasso Barolo Gavarini Chiniera 2007 750ML ($99.95) $66 special 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2007 Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera opens with an exotic bouquet of candied red fruit, flowers, mint and minerals. This is an unusually opulent, racy style for Grasso. The Gavarini is a touch hot and alcoholic at first, but with several hours of air, that quality seemed to resolve itself nicely. Silky, beautifully integrated tannins frame a finish of exceptional elegance. The personality of the year marks the Gavarini to a significant degree. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027.”
Giovanni Manzone Barolo Bricat 2007 750ML ($79.95) $59 special 22 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Barolo Bricat is tighter and more focused than the 2007 Gramolere. Sweet dark cherries, menthol, licorice and spices are some of the notes that take shape in the glass. The vineyard’s high altitude seems to have helped preserve a measure of freshness and vibrancy. The firm tannins could use another few years to soften. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”
Marchesi Di Barolo 2007 750ML ($59.95) $47 special 8 bottles available
Wine Spectator 93 points “This is harmonious and round, with cherry, floral, leather and tobacco flavors. Though supple, there’s also a firm grip of tannins. Lingers on the finish, but will benefit from more time in the bottle. Best from 2015 through 2028. 750 cases made.”
Tiole Barolo Stefano 2007 750ML ($41.95) $33 special 6 bottles available
Vietti Barolo Lazzarito 2007 750ML ($179.95) $119 special 2 bottles available
Vietti Barolo Lazzarito 2007 1.5LITER ($449.95) $349 special 2 magnums available
Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2007 Barolo Lazzarito is a superb, plush wine loaded with dark fruit, flowers of all sorts, sweet menthol and minerals, all of which flow through to the long, powerful finish. The wine’s inner perfume emerges over time, adding even more nuance and subtlety to this big Barolo. The 2007 Lazzarito is far from an open, easygoing wine, in fact it needs time, and lots of it. Anticipated maturity: 2022-2042.”
Roberto Voerzio Barolo Cerequio 2007 750ML ($349.95) $249 special 9 bottles available
Wine Advocate 98 points “Voerzio’s 2007 Barolo Cerequio is a wonderful counter to the virile, imposing Brunate. Sweet red fruit, flowers and menthol are woven into a nuanced, textured fabric of notable class and elegance. The Cerequio possesses dazzling inner perfume, silky tannins and phenomenal length. It is a stunning, beautifully articulated Barolo blessed with tons of intensity and compelling overall balance. A final burst of red berries informs the long, explosive, perfumed finish. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027.”
Produttori Del Barbaresco Paje 2007 750ML ($59.95) $44 special 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Paje comes across as a bit simple in this vintage. It shows good fleshiness and lovely inner sweetness in a fairly approachable style. I don’t see the pedigree of the finest 2007 Riservas here. In exchange, though, readers will find a highly attractive, forward Barbaresco that will drink well right out of the gate. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.”
Produttori Del Barbaresco Pora 2007 750ML ($59.95) $49 special 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is the revelation among the 2007s. Pora is one of the warmer microclimates in Barbaresco owing to its proximity to the Tanaro River. In most vintages Pora is a fairly open wine. The 2007 captures the very best qualities of this site in a radiant, deep expression of fruit. The wine literally covers every inch of the palate as it fleshes out in the glass. The Pora will never be one of the most complex wines here, but today it is immensely enjoyable, not to mention that the 2007 is one of the very finest Poras in recent memory. It will be great to drink young, but also appears to have the stuffing to age well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027.”
Produttori Del Barbaresco Rabaja 2007 1.5LITER ($179.95) $149 special 2 magnums available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is a big, dark wine loaded with dark fruit, menthol, tar, flowers, mint, rosemary and an array of balsamic notes that develop in the glass. The Rabaja possesses stunning depth to match its muscular tannins. It is a dazzling wine endowed with tons of inner perfume and sheer personality as it saturates the palate from start to finish. Today, the Rabaja comes across as huge and almost Barolo like, but it has plenty of Rabaja character. Purists will want to age the wine for a number of years to allow the baby fruit to drop off, but the truth is, it is pretty stunning even today. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.”
Sottimano Barbaresco Curra 2007 750ML ($89.95) $79 special 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Curra is a touch more austere and reserved than the Fausoni, but equally compelling. A wall of tannin hides a core of bright red berries, flowers, sweet herbs and licorice that will need at least several years of cellaring to fully emerge. This, too, possesses exceptional length and fabulous overall balance in a textured, captivating style for the year. With time in the glass, this positively explodes on the palate with layers of ripe fruit and structure, resulting in a fabulous wine that represents the epitome of finesse. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027.”
Sottimano Barbaresco Fausoni 2007 750ML ($84.95) $69 special 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The Fausoni is usually one of the lighter-weight Barbarescos here, but not in 2007. Dark red fruit, crushed flowers, licorice and sweet baking spices come together beautifully in this ripe, sensual Barbaresco. There is a wonderful richness to the fruit that virtually covers the tannins, all while avoiding any sense of heaviness. Simply put, the Fausoni is an overachiever in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027.”
Giacosa Barbaresco Santo Stefano 2007 750ML ($229.95) $189 special 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Santo Stefano is a gorgeous wine that combines element of ripeness, structure and the intense spiciness that makes the best wines from the Santo Stefano vineyard so compelling. Floral, high-toned notes appear on the silky finish, rounding out this highly promising wine. Gorgeous textural elegance and balance are the hallmarks of the 2007 Santo Stefano.”
New Arrival Special Featurette
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf Du Pape
Founded in 1900 by Edmund Tacussel, the estate of Clos St Jean began bottling their own wines in 1910. It was not until almost 100 years later that the estate gained world-wine recognition with a glowing review of their 2003 vintage by Robert Parker.
The estate is managed by brothers Pascal and Vincent Maurel, decendents of Edmund, with the assistance of Philippe Cambie. It is 44 hectares of stony soil mostly on the plateau of La Crau. The grapes mostly destemmed and are macerated for long periods. Both the Mourvèdre and Syrah are aged in old oak barrels, while the Grenache is aged in vats. Their La Combe des Fous bottling is a blend of 60% old vine Grenache planted around the time of the founding of the estate with 20% Syrah and 10% each Cinsault and Vaccarese. Its name, Hill of Fools, is in reference to the difficult terrain full of huge rocks. The Deus ex Machina bottling is 60% old vine Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre aged in new and used French oak for a year. Only 500 cases are made per year.
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Combe Des Fous 2006 750ML ($299.95) $249 special only 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 99 points “Shockingly, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Combe des Fous is almost as good. From a vintage that flies under the radar, it boasts a classic Clos Saint Jean profile of kirsch liqueur, ripe black raspberries, ground herbs and sweet garrigue to go with full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. Always slightly more elegant and silky than the more powerful Deus ex Machina, this thrill ride of a Chateauneuf will continue to drink well for another decade.”
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Deus Ex Machina 2006 750ML ($299.95) $249 special only 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 99 points “The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Deus ex Machina was flirting with perfection on this go around, and was open, layered and sexy. Possessing rock-star kirsch, blackberry liqueur, incense, spice, garrigue and ground pepper, it’s a full-bodied, incredibly textured 2006 that has thrilling concentration, sweet tannin and a finish this just keeps going. If forced to pick one of these bottles for current drinking, it’s showing spectacularly.”
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf Combe Des Fous 2010 750ML ($249.95) $169 special only 2 bottles available
Robert Parker 98 points “The limited production cuvee of 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous (60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and the rest Muscardin, Vaccarese and Cinsault) is awesome. There have been many great vintages of this wine (2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011), but the 2010 flirts with perfection. One of the most complex aromatic expressions of Chateauneuf du Pape, it offers up notes of Christmas fruitcake, spring flowers, mulberries, blueberries, black raspberries, espresso beans and spice box. Full-bodied, opulent and voluptuously textured, its luxurious, lavish fruit conceals amazing levels of glycerin and alcohol. This wine possesses prodigious intensity, massive layers of fruit and an incredible 45-50-second finish. Forget it for 4-5 years, and drink it over the following 20-25 years.”
The average listed price is $195 / bottle~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Time to Say Goodbye
VinopolPick Super Sales
Three Day Super Special – Ends Tonight at Midnight
Sale Ends Tonight at Midnight –Limited to Stocks on Hand
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG2009 ($59.95) $39 sale price, Previously $49, 3 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano brings together the best qualities of the vintage, with a solid core of intense fruit, expressive aromatics and a measure of tannic heft that will keep the wine fresh and vibrant for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice and leather notes flesh out on the huge, voluptuous finish. In 2009, the Montestefano is fabulous.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2009 ($59.95) $39 sale price Previously $44, 8 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Firm tannins provide the backbone for the 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Pora. Bigger and richer on the palate than it often is, the 2009 Pora is also quite beautiful in this vintage. Sweet floral and mint notes wrap around the palate in this impeccable, beautifully balanced, mid-weight Barbaresco from the Produttori. The 2009 impresses for its pliancy and generosity. Today, the tannins are a bit four-squared, but there is enough depth in the fruit to make me think the wine will come together a little more fully with more time in bottle.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2009 ($69.95) $49 sale price Previously $59, 27 cases available
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Dark cherries, menthol, cloves, cinnamon and leather wrap around the palate in the 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà. A rich, layered, enveloping wine, the Rabajà is a wine that shows plenty of character and personality. Deep, implosive and full of personality, the Rabajà is another wine that delivers tons of character, class and personality.”
Sale Ends Tonight at Midnight – Limited to Stocks on Hand
Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 ($59.95) $39 sale price, Previously $49, 3+ cases available
Antonio Galloni 88-90 points “Hall’s 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is laced with attractive plum, mocha, licorice, spices and menthol notes. This juicy, highly expressive Cabernet Sauvignon is shaping up beautifully. It should drink well pretty much upon release.”
Stony Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2010 ($69.95) $39 sale price, Previously $59, 12 bottles available
Winery note: “Mike Chelini’s second vintage of Cabernet beautifully reflects Stony Hill’s mountain Cabernet vineyard with its sun-drenched southwest exposure and deep red, loamy soils. The resulting wine is rich in black cherry fruit and fragrant herbs, combined with that Stony Hill “from the earth” quality. Nicely balanced between rich fruit flavors and bright acidity, the wine shows subtle tannins, a lively texture and long finish. True to Mike’s fruit-first and light-touch style of winemaking, the Cab has 13.5% alcohol and promises a long life to come. If we had to pick one word to characterize our Stony Hill wines it would be balance. We aim to achieve a balance between the intensely flavored fruit from our hillside vineyards and the notable acidity that gives the wine structure and the aging potential for which it’s been known for more than five decades.”
Kamen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley 2010 ($89.95) $59 sale price, Previously $75, 3+ cases available
Antoni Galloni 93+ points “I am totally enthralled by Kamen’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, without question the most elegant wine I have tasted from this site on the hills outside Napa. Veins of chiseled, precise fruit come alive in the glass. Hints of dark red and black fruits lead to all sorts of flowers in a Cabernet Sauvignon that impresses for its total sense of elegance and polish. There is a lot to look forward to here. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”
Sale Ends Tonight at Midnight –Limited to Stocks on Hand
Bodegas Remelluri ‘Lindes de Remelluri’ Vinedos de Labastida, Rioja 2010 ($34.95) $21.90 sale price, Previously $29, 21 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Saturated ruby. Blackcurrant, smoky minerals and potpourri on the highly perfumed nose. Silky and sweet on entry, then packed with juicy dark fruit complicated by floral pastilles and a hint of blood orange. Powerful but lithe, with seamless texture, fine-grained tannins and impressive energy on the finish.”
Bodegas Remelluri ‘Lindes de Remelluri’ Vinedos de San Vicente, Rioja 2010 ($34.95) $21.90 sale price, Previously $29, 31 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Glass-staining ruby. Heady aromas of boysenberry, cassis, fennel and pipe tobacco, with a sexy vanilla undertone. Lush, velvety and sweet in the mouth, with sexy flavors of black and blue fruit preserves, licorice and floral pastilles. A fleshy, powerful but shockingly energetic Rioja, with supple tannins framing a long, sweet finish.”
Remelluri Rioja Reserva 2009 ($39.95) $24 sale price, Previously $31.90, 20 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2009 Remelluri Reserva aims at showing the character of Remelluri, as this is the first modern vintage that does not have grapes purchased from external suppliers. These grapes are now in the Lindes range of wines, but in the past they were blended with the estate grapes. The cool Remelluri vineyards behave very well in warmer years. This 2009 is very clean with predominant aromas of earthy red fruit intermixed with notes of vanilla and cinnamon, a satin texture with round, fine-grained tannins and quite classical and very well-proportioned style. This is a great vintage for Remelluri Reserva.”