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Kapcsandy Subscriber Sale
10% all in-stock Kapcsandy Wines
Sale Ends 11:59 PM on January 1st!
Discount will not appear on website
We will apply it manually before finalizing your order
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Grand-Vin Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2009 1.5L ($799.95) Displayed price: $699, Your price; $629.10, 3 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin opens with the most beguiling bouquet imaginable. Freshly cut flowers, mint, cinnamon and licorice all make an appearance as this vivid, beautifully delineated wine opens up in the glass. A model of total finesse and elegance, the 2009 wraps around the palate with what feels like endless layers of aromas and flavors. This totally seamless, polished Cabernet Sauvignon is virtually impossible to resist today, but it will be even better in another few years. The 2009 is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc.”
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Grand-Vin Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2015 750ML ($499.95) Displayed price: $449, Your price: $404.10, 7 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 99 points “Composed of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard sports a deep purple-black color and has a classic nose of crushed black currants, black plums and cedar with hints of dried Mediterranean herbs, underbrush, smoked meats and cloves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has youthful exuberance with tight-knit, muscular black fruits and spicy suggestions framed by firm, grainy tannins, finishing with great length and depth. Should age incredibly!”
Robert Parker 98-100 points “Another potentially perfect wine, with off-the-charts richness, is their largest cuvée of 700 cases, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard. The wine is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot harvested Sept. 10-25. Notes of graphite, black chocolate, crème de cassis, blackberry and subtle smoke are all present in this dense, seamless, full-bodied wine that has magnificent fruit purity, richness and depth. This is a 30-year wine, and a fabulous one at that.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Estate Cuvee, Napa Valley 2015 750ML ($199.95) Displayed price: $149, Your price: $134.10, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine Advocate 95 points “A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Cuvée has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and is scented of fresh black currants, cherries and mulberries with touches of Provence herbs, lavender, wild blueberries, anise and cedar chest. Medium-bodied, finely crafted, very elegant and fresh, the palate offers vivacious red and black fruits with a savory undercurrent and supple texture, finishing on a spicy note.”
Robert Parker 95-98 points “The 2015 Estate Cuvée State Lane Vineyard, 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, exhibits beautiful blackcurrants, white chocolate, licorice and a touch of oak, an opaque purple color and full-bodied mouthfeel, but a terrific equilibrium and balance among its elements. The wine has magnificent fruit, which is a characteristic of the top wines of this vintage, and a lushness that recalls vintages such as 2012, 2007 and 2002. This will be a gorgeous wine to drink upon release and is certainly capable of aging for 20 or more years.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Kapcsandy Family Winery Rapszodia, Yountville 2015 750ML ($479.95) Displayed price: $419, Your price: $377.10, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 95+ points “A blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot, the 2014 Rapszodia has a deep garnet-purple color and wonderfully spicy nose of cloves, vanilla and cinnamon stick over a core of red and black currants, black cherries and bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied with plenty of baking spice flavors complementing the ripe, expressive red and black berry flavors, it has a very fine-grained texture and plenty of freshness, finishing long.”
Robert Parker 98-100 points “Their 100% Cabernet Franc cuvee, the 2015 Rapszodia Proprietary Red, spent its whole life in 100% new French oak and is an exhilarating wine with off-the-charts richness, an exquisite bouquet of spring flowers, forest floor, rich blue and black fruits, voluptuous texture, incredibly fine, silky tannins, and, for a Kapcsandy wine, relatively elevated alcohol at 14.5%. This is a “wow” wine that should drink beautifully young and last 20-30+ years.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Roberta’s Reserve, Napa Valley 2012 1.5L ($799.95) Displayed price: $699, Your price; $629.10, 1 magnun in stock now
Robert Parker 98 points “The 100% Merlot cuvée, the 2012 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard is, once again, flirting with perfection. A stunning nose of chocolate fudge intermixed with coffee bean, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit is intense, and followed by a full-bodied, gorgeously textured, opulent style of wine with stunning richness and purity. This is a brilliant wine and only represents 12% of the production, as only 300 cases were produced. It should drink well for 20-25 years.”
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2012 Roberta’s Reserve (Merlot) is another drop-dead gorgeous wine from Kapcsándy. Mocha, black cherries, plums, licorice and menthol meld together in an effortless, seamless wine endowed with sublime grace and class. Lovely savory and mineral notes support the pliant finish. What a gorgeous wine this is.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Roberta’s Reserve, Napa Valley 2015 750ML ($399.95) Displayed price: $369, Your price: $332.10, 4 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 98 points “Made from 100% Merlot, the 2015 Merlot Roberta’s Reserve has a deep garnet-purple color and gorgeous nose of black plums, warm blueberries and mocha with touches of anise, red roses and spice box. Medium to full-bodied and densely packed with layers of blue and black fruits and perfumed notions, it has a firm yet plush backbone to support and a very long, layered finish.”
Robert Parker 95-98 points “Their 100% Merlot cuvée, the 2015 Merlot Roberta’s Reserve, is another fabulous product with outstanding purity, great balance, loads of chocolate, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, silky, juicy tannins and terrific concentration, depth and overall balance. It will also be approachable upon release and last 20-25 years.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
10% all in-stock Kapcsandy Wines
Sale Ends 11:59 PM on January 1st!
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Happy New Year!
Subscriber-Only Special
All in-stock Burgundy wines 10%
Sale Ends 11:59 PM on January 2nd!
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We will apply it manually before finalizing your order
Sale does not apply to case specials or items listed as pre-arrival
There’s so many options!
View 28 in-stock Chablis here
View 66 in-stock White Burgundies here
View 233 in-stock red Cote de Nuits Burgundies here
View 112 in-stock red Cote de Beaune Burgundies here
View 3 in-stock sparkling Burgundies here
Sale Ends 11:59 PM on January 2nd!
Discount will not appear on website
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Sale does not apply to case specials or items listed as pre-arrival
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The Most Exciting Wines Arriving in 2018…
…will surely include the 2013 Produttori Cru Barbaresco Riserva releases. That 2013 is an outstanding Piedmontese vintage is no secret—demand for 2013 Barolo is off the charts. 2013 in Barbaresco may be even better than in Barolo—the region received less rain and had an even less stressful growing season. With that, then, we’re eagerly awaiting arguably the greatest value in high end Italian wine—the assortment of Cru Barbaresco releases from the Produttori del Barbaresco.
These are profound wines, capable of aging and maturation into jaw-droppingly good bottles. That they are priced at a ~30% discount relative to their peers in Barolo makes it even better when you open them up 15+ years down the road. We’ve been selling quite a few of these on pre-arrival and although now have access to a second tranche, we’ve sold through Asili and Rabaja already, and expect several of the others available for pre-arrival purchase now to sell out before they reach the shop. If there are any you’ve your eyes on, now’s the time to grab them.
Arriving ETA April 2018:
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “The Barbaresco Riserva Montefico shows all the energy and focus that is typical of this great site, but there is so much depth to the fruit that some of the more angular contours have been softened. Bright saline-infused notes lead to wild flowers and an exotic melange of red fruits in this beautifully delineated, vivid Barbaresco. All the elements are simply in the right place.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 1.5L ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “A dark, brooding wine, the 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano comes across as quite virile today, with huge tannins and equally imposing dark fruit. Smoke, leather, licorice and game add to an impression of raw, almost unrestrained, power. There is not a whole lot of finesse here at least not now. The Montestefano is a wine painted in broad brush strokes that emphasize power over elegance. Then again, that is Montestefano. Readers should be in no rush to open the 2013.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($79.95) $56 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Like most of the wines in this lineup, the 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is quite potent. A rush of raspberry jam, wild flowers, white pepper and mint make a strong opening statement. Succulent and yet also structured, the Muncagota has so much to offer. It should be one of the first wines in this range to start opening up, although when that will happen exactly is hard to say.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 1.5L ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The Produttori’s 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is all power, tension and nerve. Even so, the 2013 is remarkably civilized and much less austere than young Ovello Barbarescos usually are. Scents of cranberry, white pepper and mint give the wine its signature high-toned aromatics. The Ovello has a Volnay-like purity to its fruit, with Nebbiolo tannins and structure, of course. If that sounds appealing, well, it is. Vivid, sculpted and impossibly beautiful, the Ovello is simply magnificent.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Paje, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Pajé is simply fabulous. Sweet floral notes soar from the glass as this deep, beautifully resonant Barbaresco shows off its compelling inner sweetness and total sense of poise. The flavors are deep yet fresh, with wonderful fragrance and impeccable balance throughout. A wine of total harmony, the 2013 is going to be nearly impossible to resist young. The 2013 is one of the best versions of the Pajé I can remember tasting.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is soft, pliant and enveloping. In many vintages, the Pora can be a bit light. Not in 2013. The wine is rich and deeply textured, with layers of fruit that continue to build with time in the glass. The tannins are present, but they are nearly buried by the sheer intensity of the fruit. This is an especially powerful, brooding edition of the Pora. Although impressive today, the 2013 will drink well for decades to come.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo is one of the more gracious, approachable wines in this range. Medium in body, yet deep and beautifully resonant, the 2013 has so much to offer. It should open up a bit earlier than most of the other 2013s in the range. Succulent dark cherry, plum, tobacco, mint, licorice and lavender grace the effortless finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Ultimate #Trending Wines
Our Most Popular Picks from 2017
Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque – Fleur de Champagne Brut Millesime, Champagne 2008 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points “Perrier Jouët Belle Epoque 2008 reminds me somewhat of the grace of the exceptional 1995, Cellarmaster Hervé Deschamps’ first solo vintage and still one of his best. Though the two vintages 13 years apart share the same grace and class, the 2008 is more mineral, reflecting a quite sunless summer season. Only the return of warmer weather at the start of September imbued the vintage with a freshness of great Chardonnay in tune with the subtly restrained power of Pinot Noir and a soupçon of rounded Meunier – that final little touch making the wine more pleasurable to drink soon, unlike other wines from the Champagne 2008 vintage, which need a lot more time. Chardonnay is from Cramant, Avize, and Mesnil, Pinot Noir from Ay and Ambonnay in the Montagne de Reims, and Pinot Meunier from Dizy. Shimmering pale gold with green lights, radiant clarity; persistent tiny bubbles: riot of white flowers scents, hawthorn, then more stone-fruit than citrus, reine claude (greengage) and elderflower. Vibrant mouthfeel, invigorating, expansive – perfect with saline fruits de mer.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $119.98
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin La Grande Dame Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($169.95) $99 special, 18 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 94+ points “The final blending of the 2006 La Grande Dame was completed prior to Dominique Demarville joining the team at Veuve Clicquot, so we will have to wait for the release of the 2008 version to see his impact on this bottling. The 2006 Grande Dame is a blend of fifty-three percent pinot noir and forty-seven percent chardonnay and was finished with a dosage of eight grams per liter. The wine is excellent, wafting from the glass in a complex blend of apple, pear, wheat toast, fine minerality, a touch of smokiness and a nice note of caraway seed in the upper register. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, deep and complex, with elegant mousse, fine focus and grip and a very long, vibrant and zesty finish. This is drinking beautifully, but has the balance to age long and gracefully as well. High class juice. 2016-2040.”
Champagne Guide 96 points “(disgorged early 2014; 53% pinot noir, largely from Verzy and Verzenay, with a touch of Bouzy, Ambonnay and Ay; 47% chardonnay, predominantly from Avize, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger; 8g/L dosage). In response to the generous, rounded, supple 2006 season, Demarville’s predecessor, Jacques Peters, increased the share of chardonnay in his final La Grande Dame. Demarville confessed to some nervousness at launching the 2006 after the caliber of the linear and refined 2004. The two seasons certainly stand in contrast, with the 2006 already much more approachable and immediate. It launches confidently into generous, rich ginger, honey, toast, roast nuts and brioche, well into its phase of secondary evolution, yet in no way broad or developed. Citrus-zest liveliness defines a honed focus, while a fine chalk mineral structure keeps the finish lively and energetic.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The prestigious 2006 La Grande Dame is made from 47% Chardonnay and 53% Pinot Noir, and assembles the fruit of eight grand cru villages. Very intense and complex on the nose, this is a full-bodied, round, rich and mouth-filling, but also refined prestige cuvée; it reveals a fascinating purity, precision and freshness. The finish is long and complex, and shows a spicy minerality. There are coffee beans, bread and toast aromas in the aftertaste. This comes highly recommended.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “A waft of spring blossom draws you into this elegant Champagne, whose subtle notes of poached quince, toasted brioche and mandarin orange gracefully ride the satiny mousse, supported by a vibrant backbone of acidity. Disgorged February 2016. Drink now through 2029.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $154
Cameron Winery Abbey Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2015 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 21 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: Abbey Ridge is one of the most hallowed sites in the Willamette Valley. Planted in 1975, the Pinot Noir here is own rooted and at one of the highest elevations in the Dundee Hills. The elevation and classic Jory soils give the wine an intense personality—high toned, elegant and tensile, with good power and a strong voice. This bottling has been one of the defining Oregon Pinots since John Paul started making it.
#6 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Le Mont’ Demi-Sec, Loire 2016 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “This tilts toward the flattering side of off-dry, showing a plump feel to the core of creamed pear, white peach and yellow apple fruit. Lovely verbena, honeysuckle and mineral accents keep this balanced and driven, with a long finish that lets the fruit echo. Drink now through 2032.”
#15 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Domaine des Baumard Savennieres, Loire 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Alluring, with quince, creamed pear, verbena and green almond flavors allied to a creamy texture, all offset beautifully through the finish by light quinine and mineral hints. Approachable, but this seems built for the cellar. Best from 2018 through 2030.”
Domaine Lafage Bastide Miraflors, IGP Cotes Catalanes 2015 750ML ($17.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck – Wine Advocate 94 points “This wine is almost too good to be true. A blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache that was brought up in concrete tanks (Grenache) and demi-muids (Syrah), the 2015 Bastide Miraflors Vieilles Vignes reminded me of a mini Syrah from California’s Manfred Krankl (yes I just compared a $14 Syrah to Sine Qua Non). It’s a ripe, sexy, heady beauty that exhibits a deep, purple color as well as killer notes of smoked meats, chocolate, blackberry and black raspberries. Deep, unctuous, open knit and layered, it continues to change in the glass, has a seamless and silky profile, and not a hard edge to be found. It’s a sensational value that needs to be tasted to be believed. Drink it anytime over the coming 2-4 years.”
#19 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Marques de Caceres Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2012 750ML ($29.95) $18.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Marques de Caceres Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2012 750ML ($299.95) $199 special, 10+ cases in stock now (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 93 points “Black cherry, currant and floral notes are expressive and alluring, balanced by loamy earth, tobacco and mineral elements that add a savory quality. Firm, well-integrated tannins give support to the polished texture, while orange peel acidity fuels the fresh finish. Drink now through 2027.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Descendientes de J. Palacios ‘Petalos’, Bierzo 2014 750ML ($24.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Descendientes de J. Palacios ‘Petalos’, Bierzo 2014 750ML ($269.95) $199 special, 10+ cases in stock now (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2014 Pétalos del Bierzo was already up for tasting as they sell the wine quite quickly even if the volumes are not small, but the wine had only been in bottle for one week and it might have been a little closed, especially when compared with the aromatic 2013. However, the aromas, if subtle, are phenomenal, very complete and balanced, with an extra degree of complexity when compared with the 2013. The harvest was a little healthier without being easy (or dry). There is great volume in the palate, fleshy, juicy and rich without being heavy, medium-bodied, somehow similar to the 2012 even if it still needs to develop further complexity. There’s always a subdued minerality, a texture and mouthfeel difficult to find in wines of this price level. This is approachable now, but it will be better in one year and should develop nicely in bottle. Drink: 2016-2022.”
James Suckling 92 points “A pure mencía with wild strawberries, black pepper and underbrush. Balanced and pretty red showing subtle berry character throughout. Silky tannins. The entry-level red of the famous Bierzo estate. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $20
Avignonesi Occhio di Pernice Vin Santo di Montepulciano, Tuscany 2001 375ML ($319.95) $259 special, 6 half-bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 100 points “This wine merits every one of these 100 points. The 2001 Vin Santo di Montepulciano Occhio di Pernice (375 milliliters) is a singular work of art and a profound expression of Tuscany. I know Avignonesi owner Virginie Saverys would like to draw attention to the other wines in her portfolio, and she has every right to do so. But I just want to cry. When you have a wine as profound and perfect as this, everything else fades fast into the background. Virginie likes to say that Occhio di Pernice (made with red grapes) is the “male” and the Vin Santo di Montepulciano (made from white grapes) is the “female.” This is a great observation. The bouquet here is smoky and savory, but brilliant and sophisticated at the same time. You get an infinite array of caramel, maple syrup, espresso bean, licorice and candied fruit aromas. There’s so much dried fig as well. The concentration and thickness is out of this world. This wine is built like a tank and I’m not sure it will ever exit its drinking prime.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
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The Year Ahead:
The Most Exciting Wines Arriving 2018
Purchase Pre-Arrival for Assured Supply and Best Pricing
Arriving in January 2018:
Weingut Donnhoff Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe 2016 750ML ($74.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Terry Theise note “A conglomerate of slate and porphyry, the site entails the little hollows between cliff-sides; it’s very steep and terraced and quiet, which may account for the wines’ riddlesome nature, wines of pure inference and umami that need several years not just to blossom, but simply to say what they taste like. This is especially true of the dry wines. This ’16 is relatively overt and smoky, but no sequence of descriptors will be useful—it’s just too soon. The texture seems more lush than usual, and there’s an earthy note, and as compelling as it is, I respect the shroud and will wait patiently.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs 2016 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Grapelive 96 points “The 2016 Donnhoff Hermanshohle GG starts with subtle white flowers, loads of flinty spicy mineral and stone leading to a brisk youthful palate of steely citrus, peach and green apple with a core of lime, white currant, a hint of gooseberry and citron that highlights the extract. While tight, focused and compact now, it looks set to be a classic. Lingering melon, faint mango, saline and wet stone adds to the complexity of detail in a wine of true potential. I hope I get a chance to re-visit this beauty in 10 years, in the meantime don’t miss Donnhoff’s the Krotenpfuhl Kabinett, a stellar value. This Hermannshohle GG should be in your cellar when released this fall, it has a rewarding future, I’d put it in the same league as Roulot Meursault and Raveneau Les Clos quality wise, drink from 2022-2035.
Terry Theise note “Cornelius describes this as a “grand dry wine with a Mona-Lisa smile,” but I usually find it less enigmatic, and in 2016 it is clearly, definitely and obviously fantastic. Intense yet filigree. Focused, and directed towards the conclusion of a complex argument, letting you follow the logic and the beauty of the thoughts, and then you perceive the grace of the language and you wish you could read it out loud to someone—to anyone. It’s not as electrifying as the ’15 was, it’s more deliberate. But that very sense of careful unfurling seems born of love.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2016 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Terry Theise note “For many people this is a ne plus ultra of Riesling, and they’ll be happy to hear that ’16 is a firm and herbal version of a classic for which the typical descriptors apply. But what you can’t describe is the moment – and there’s always a moment—when the love overcomes your resistance, your doubt or your fear, and you let yourself fall; finally someone sees you, your cells are urging toward her, and hoo boy, this could be bliss; watch out… here goes.”
Weingut Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese, Mosel #11 2016 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 pre-arrival special
Mosel Fine Wines 91 points “The 2016er Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese AP11 was harvested at 90° Oechsle in the prime Class I Pichter (locally called Langpichter) sector of the Ürziger Würzgarten. The wine develops a beautiful nose of melon, pear, grapefruit and fine spices. It proves quite smooth but multi-layered on the palate and leaves a great playful and airy feel in the long finish. This is plain beautiful and has great upside potential if the fresher zesty side comes through. 2026-2046”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
#14 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2015 750ML ($139.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 98 points “This has a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that holds center stage but still allows notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish. So seductive already, but this will cruise in the cellar. Drink now through 2040.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “Bottled in May, the 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape is a floral, elegant, unbelievably complex wine. Roses and violets, cherries and stone fruit, cinnamon and allspice and more are carried across the full-bodied yet almost weightless palate, finishing in a swirl of silky tannins and lingering spice. Drink it over the next two decades.”
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94-96 points “(raised in foudres) Deep ruby. Hugely aromatic red and dark berry, potpourri and floral scents are underscored by smoky minerality and an exotic suggestion of Asian spices. Sappy, focused and impressively deep yet lively, offering alluringly sweet raspberry, cherry compote and spicecake flavors and a refreshingly bitter touch of blood orange. Puts on weight and spreads out steadily with air, acquiring a succulent herb note that carries through the strikingly long, mineral-laced, gently tannic finish. This beauty is shaping up to be among the standouts of this extremely successful vintage.”
Gulfi Nerojbleo Nero d’Avola Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2013 750ML ($21.95) $19 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Deep ruby. Perfumed and juicy, offering sweet candied blueberry pie, sweet spices and faded flowers on the nose and in the mouth. Very smooth texture and clean, ripe flavors have pretty floral lift and vibrancy. A knockout NeroJbleo, one of the best in years, in fact.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Gulfi Nerosanlore Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata – Vinous 95 points “Deep ruby-red. Refined, highly complex aromas of blueberry, flint, exotic spices, faded flowers, cumin and cardamom. Enters bright, juicy and penetrating, with terrific mid-palate energy and a brooding quality to the very deep but currently subtle spicy red and blue fruit flavors. Rises impressively on the perfumed, elegant back end, which features smooth fine-grained tannins, a restrained sweetness and a lingering flinty nuance. Remarkably deep, complex NeroSanlorè that is great to drink right now (like all Gulfi’s 2012s) but will keep.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Castell’in Villa ‘Poggio delle Rose’, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2006 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “[Reviewed Jun 2012] The 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva Poggio delle Rose brings together all of the best elements of this site and house style. Firm tannins frame a core of deeply expressive, opulent fruit in this full-throttle, huge Chianti Classico. Threads of sweet perfumed fruit run through the 2006 as it shows off its class and personality. Mint, flowers and sweet red berries punctuate the explosive finish. This is a dazzling showing from Castell’in Villa.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Castell’in Villa ‘Poggio delle Rose’, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 1996 750ML ($159.95) $128 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “[Reviewed Jun 2012] The 1996 Chianti Classico Riserva Poggio delle Rose emerges from the glass with generous fruit, which is given additional volume and richness from the French oak. The 1996 is a big, big wine, especially within the context of the vintage. Because 1996 is the debut vintage, the percentage of new barrels is higher than in subsequent years, and the wine remains marked by the oak. Smoke, licorice and tar wrap around a muscular finish supported by firm, insistent tannins.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Castell’in Villa Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 1994 750ML ($249.95) $219 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “[Reviewed Jun 2012] The 1994 Chianti Classico Riserva is more immediate and juicy than the 1993. There is plenty of underlying structure, but it is buried by the wine’s generous fruit. Sweet dark cherries, plums, tobacco and incense meld together on the exotic, spiced finish. This is a relatively fleshy wine for Castell’in Villa. I have a slight preference for the 1993, but the truth is that all five wines from the 1990s are fabulous. I would be thrilled to own any of them.”
Arriving ETA February 2018:
Famille Perrin Gigondas Domaine du Clos des Tourelles, Rhone 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The finest vintage to date, the 2015 Gigondas Le Clos des Tourelles comes from a tiny vineyard located just inside the village of Gigondas. Incorporating a touch of Syrah, this Grenache dominated beauty reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as off the chart notes of black raspberries, black cherries, pepper, garrigue, and tons of that classic Gigondas spice. I wrote “Wow” more than once in my notes and this full-bodied 2015 has ultra-fine tannin, perfect balance, and a stacked mid-palate. Give bottles 2-3 years and drink over the following 15+ years.”
Famille Perrin Vinsobres Les Hauts de Julien, Rhone 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 94-96 points “The 2015 Vinsobres Les Hauts de Julien is a dead ringer for a Cornas from Clape. This inky colored beauty offers tons of blackberries, olive tapenade, pepper and even a hint of bacon fat to go with a full-bodied, concentrated, incredibly layered and pure style on the palate. As with the other 2015s from the Perrin family, its purity of fruit is truly special. Give bottles a few years in the cellar and enjoy over the following decade or more.”
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Cavallotto Bricco Boschis, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($89.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Cavallotto Bricco Boschis, Barolo DOCG 2013 1.5L ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 96+ points “Cavallotto is on a roll with some very impressive new releases. The 2013 Barolo Bricco Boschis is a tremendous effort that has an edge on the excellent 2010 vintage in my view. The wine shows a beautifully exuberant but elegant bouquet with the ethereal and undertone fruit and spice aromas you get with Nebbiolo. Although the wine is never overdone, it does show silky persistence and a long finish that comes from the noble nature of the tannins and the wine’s textural finesse. Yet, it is playfully deceiving in a way because behind that polished grace, it delivers impressive depth and power.”
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Cavallotto Bricco Boschis Vigna San Giuseppe, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 95 points “The Cavallotto 2011 Barolo Riserva Bricco Boschis Vigna San Giuseppe is an exceptional wine that really shows the best of Castiglione Falletto, home to some of Barolo’s most consistent and age-worthy wines. This bottle offers enormous complexity coupled by power and linear, classic lines. Maceration stopped at 20 days, otherwise the winemaking team feared the results would be overdone and too bold. The bouquet opens quickly to reveal dark fruit, spice, anise seed and licorice. The effect is ethereal and lasting. It would be hard to pin this wine down as being from the warm 2011 vintage in a blind tasting. The acidity is fresh and nicely folded into the background.”
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Proprieta Sperino ‘L Franc Bandit Vino da Tavola, Piedmont 2010 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 96 points “A Vino da Tavola, the 2010 ‘L Franc is a pure expression of Cabernet Franc made from the acidic, sandy soils of Alto Piemonte. Only 1,000 bottles were produced. This is a stunning red wine with profound depth and vast horizons. The wine’s appearance is incredibly dense and dark but the bouquet is refined and elegant—almost lightweight or ethereal. You get back fruit, exotic spice, powdered mocha, licorice and cured tobacco. The wine carries an evidently important level of dry extract, but it does so with the utmost grace and transparency.”
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Proprieta Sperino Uvaggio Coste della Sesia Rosso, Piedmont 2013 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93+ points “This wine is named Uvaggio in reference to the fact it represents a blend of three grapes: 80% Nebbiolo, 15% Vespolina and 5% Croatina. Some of the fruit for the 2013 Coste della Sesia Uvaggio is harvested from parcels with sandy soils that give the wine more perfumed characteristics and other fruit is harvested from granite-rich soils that give the wine more structure and fiber. This is a deep and authentic red wine with balanced red fruit aromas that saturate a long and silky mouthfeel. Savory tones of spice and leather give the wine staying power. In all, the 2013 vintage is delicate and nuanced in nature.”
Arriving ETA March 2018:
#58 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Domaine de Beaurenard Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2015 750ML ($59.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “A beautiful wine, with dark fig, warm boysenberry reduction and alluring creamed raspberry flavors streaming forth, accented by graphite, black tea and pastis. There’s a healthy dose of singed apple wood through the finish, but it’s well-embedded as everything pulls together. Best from 2020 through 2040.–JM ”
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Arriving ETA April 2018:
#5 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2015 750ML ($69.95) $59 re-arrival special
Wine Spectator 95 points “A textbook version of the brawny side of Gigondas, this offers a grippy alder bass line underneath layers of dark currant and fig fruit, while lots of tobacco, rosemary and bay fill in throughout. Muscular and energetic, this is built for the cellar. Best from 2019 through 2030.”
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Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee, Rhone 2015 750ML ($89.95) $75 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck – Rhone Report 95-97+ points “A vintage compared to 2010 by Laurence, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape looks to be one of the big successes in the vintage. Possessing a ripe, rounded, sexy style backed up by solid density and concentration, it offers classic Pegau notes of currants, pepper, and cured meats. Big, rich, concentrated and beautifully textured, it offers a rare depth of fruit and richness in the vintage.”
Wine Advocate 93-95 points “The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée is beauty, and about as classic an expression of this estate as I can recall. Blackcurrants, peppery herbs, roasted meats and garrigue all emerge from this medium to full-bodied, balanced, nicely concentrated 2015 that has ripe tannin and a great finish. It’s not on par with the 2010, 2009 or 2003, but it should surpass the 2012 and have two decades or more of longevity.”
Chateau Calon-Segur, Saint-Estephe 2010 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection–This is an architectural wine, very classical in its structure like so many of the top wines of 2010. It’s powered by ripe tannins and beautiful black currant fruits. While the wine is gorgeously ripe, it also has a powerful dark and structured character. For long-term aging.”
James Suckling 96 points “Sure pure fruit to this red with a minerality and floral undertone. You can smell the warm stones. Full body, with a beautiful depth of fruit and velvety tannins. Dense and balanced. Layered with a light salty and meaty character as well. Great length. Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon. Try in 2017.”
Robert Parker 94+ points “The 2010 is performing well. With Cabernet Sauvignon dominating the blend, the wine has a dense plum/purple color along with notes of underbrush, black currants, plum, licorice, smoky charcuterie and some roasted herbs in the background. Full-bodied, moderately tannic and set for an extremely long life, this will not be a wine to please those looking for immediate gratification. Rather, I would suspect this wine will close down even further in bottle and, despite its full-bodied, powerful, massive size, it will need at least a decade of cellaring before it is accessible. This is another 2010 capable of lasting 35-50 years.”
Cusumano Alta Mora ‘Guardiola’ Etna Rosso, Sicily 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 96 points “The crystal-clear nose of jasmine, slate, quartz, wild strawberries, blueberries and tons of orange rind, not to mention chocolate shavings and walnuts, is stunning. The full-bodied palate is expansive and fruit-forward yet so minerally and uplifted by a fresh line of acidity that culminates in a long finish. Tight and refined in terms of tannin texture. So good now but better in 2019.”
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port 2003 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker – Hedonist’s Gazette 100 points “I noticed the Chinese love to have both a sweet wine and a vintage port at the end of a meal, which is pretty much over-kill for me. However, I was blown away by the 2003 Taylors vintage port. I had enough left in me to appreciate the brilliant Kracher No. 7 Chardonnay from the 1999 vintage, which was stunning with the coconut sorbet with toffee sauce and lemongrass bubbles. Yet drinking it was touched with sadness as I thought of the recent and premature death of its 49-year old maker, Alois (Luis) Kracher. The Great Wall of China, Black Tie Dinner.”
Pierre Ravoni – Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2003 Taylor’s has a lovely ripe, primal bouquet of blackberry, raspberry, vanilla and marmalade that shows slightly better delineation than the Fonseca. The palate is medium-bodied with very composed, refined tannins that belie the heat of that summer. There is wonderful focus here and fine tension, the finish offering precise notes of black cherries, mulberry, cloves and white pepper. This is one of the finest Ports of a precocious vintage. Tasted May 2013.”
Sena, Aconcagua Valley 2015 750ML ($179.95) $138 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 100 points “Stunning aromas of blackcurrant, stone, blueberry and licorice. Also iodine. Floral. Perfumed. Full body, fantastic density of fruit and ripe tannins. It goes on for minutes on the palate with such energy and focus. Touch of chewiness on the finish. A complex and complete wine that delivers a generosity with firmness. Drink in 2021 but already a classic to drink.”
Arriving ETA May 2018:
#7 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Chateau Canon la Gaffeliere, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 95 points “This cuts a wide swath, with mouthwatering tobacco and warm ganache notes leading the way, followed by a wave of fig, blackberry and black currant preserves. Shows remarkable definition already, even though the structure is strident. Tempting now, but just put this in the back of the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2035. 4,083 cases made.”
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “One of the wines of the vintage, the 2014 Canon La Gaffelière is explosive, lifted and aristocratic in its breeding. Bright Cabernet Franc aromatics give the wine its signature lift and precision. Raspberry jam, rose petal, mint, blood orange, tobacco and pomegranate build slowly on the palate, leading to a super-expressive, finely knit finish. Powerful yet also impeccably refined, the 2014 has it all. The 2014 is 55 % Merlot, 37 % Cabernet Franc and 8 % Cabernet Sauvignon. Don’t miss it. Tasted two times.”
#3 Wine of the Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Chateau Coutet, Barsac 2014 375ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 96 points “This shows the vivid, racy side of Barsac, with streaming flavors of pineapple, yellow apple, green plum and white ginger, displaying lovely energy from start to finish. Ends with enough honeysuckle and orange blossom notes to balance the richness. Best from 2020 through 2035. 4,000 cases made.”
Stella Di Campalto Brunello di Montalcino “Beatrice” 2011 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata-Vinous 90-91+ points “Pale red with an amber tinge. Candied red cherry, tobacco and musky herbs on the deep nose. Then urgent flavors of red fruits, botanical herbs and ink show very good cut and thrust. A spicy nuance lingers on the juicy finish. Much more closed and brooding than the 2011 Benedetta Brunello, in keeping with the fact that the Beatrice (unlike the Benedetta) contains roughly 10 percent Brunello from the 2010 vintage, added because di Campalto believed the wine needed more backbone. Stella di Campalto’s 2010 Brunello is especially deep, dark, and musky, and those elements are obvious in the Beatrice as well (this is the first time she has bottled a wine not entirely made with the vintage indicated on the label). Stella di Campalto is not especially fond of this wine right now, so she’s considering declassifying to Rosso status, but this has yet to be decided and things may change depending on the wine’s evolution. Should she decide to turn this into a Rosso, it’s going to be one heck of a Rosso di Montalcino; that said, I find the Benedetta Brunello to be much superior and more typical of Stella di Campalto’s production.”
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Stella Di Campalto Brunello Di Montalcino “Benedetta” 2011 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata-Vinous 92-93 points “Bright pale red. More mineral and minty than the 2012 Beatrice Brunello di Montalcino by this estate, displaying a lovely purity to its medicinal red cherry and cough-drop aromas and flavors. The finish is bright, long and airy. Ever the perfectionist, Stella di Campalto hasn’t yet decided if this will be sold as a Brunello or a top-of-the-line Rosso, but I think the wine is a potentially outstanding Brunello. It spent an unbelievable 54 months in 17 hL used oak barrels — unbelievable in the sense that this marvelous wine shows no hint of wood or of tiring fruit whatsoever. It’s made mainly from the Il Leccio vineyard, characterized by alberese soil that gives vibrant, more fragrant wines. Benedetta is the name of one of Stella’s daughters.”
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