Featured December Sales; New Reviews for Kapcsandy; Trending Alert; 2006 Vintage Champagne & Subscriber-Only Special on Dom Perignon; Champagne Treasures: Cristal/ Selosse/ Philipponnat/ Krug & more!; Bubbly Case Deals; Budget Friendly Sparkling Picks; 2016 Story of the Year: Brunello; December Sale Recap
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Happy New Year!
From the team at Vinopolis Wine Shop
Please note that we will be closed on New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1st
We will re-open for our regular hours 10 am – 6 pm on January 2nd
This shop never closes: www.vinopoliswineshop.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Featured December Sales
Our sale prices end tonight!
Salon Cuvee ‘S’ Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs, Champagne 2004 1.5L ($1,499.95) Was $1,190, Now $989, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2004 Salon has been superb each time I have tasted it over the last year or so. Bright, tense and crystalline, with all of the energy that is typical of both Salon and the vintage in the Côte des Blancs, the 2004 bristles with superb precision and cool, pulsating minerality. The 2004 spent a dozen years on its lees. Over the last six months or so, it has gradually begun to open up, but it is very much a wine for the cellar. Two thousand four is remembered as a vintage with record high yields. Salon (and Delamotte) did a terrific job in keeping the vines well balanced. Production was just 46,000 bottles, as opposed to the 60,000 or so that is more typical. Chef de Caves Michel Fauconnet opted for a low dosage of just 4 grams per liter. This is a tremendous showing.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Elegant, featuring up-front, ripe aromas and flavors of dried apricot, crystallized honey and candied kumquat, giving way on the creamy palate to more subtle notes of raw almond, fleur de sel and star anise. Mouthwatering, with a chalky underpinning and a lovely, satiny finish. Drink now through 2026.”AN
Araujo Estate Altagracia Red, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($149.95) Was $125, Now $118, 11 bottles available
James Suckling 95 points “Glorious aromas, like walking into a flower shop, from roses to lilacs. Lots of dark fruit too. Then goes to slate and dark mushroom. Full body, super refined tannins and refresh and ultra-clean finish. A thoroughly balanced and refined wine. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 10% cabernet franc, 6% petit verdot, and 4% malbec. So delicious to drink now.”
Robert Parker 93 points “As for the 2013 Proprietary Red Altagracia, the blend is slightly different, at 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot and 4% Malbec. One of the finest Altagracias I’ve tasted to date, the color is saturated ruby/purple, much darker than the 2012 and the wine slightly less fragrant and more coiled tight. Yet, it is also more concentrated and promising. The wine is a heck of a second wine, but does require some patience. For now, deep, rich blackcurrant and blackberry fruit with floral notes (white flowers?), medium to full body and sweet tannin are all present in this relatively larger-scaled Altagracia than we’ve seen in the past (14.8% alcohol). The finish is long, still youthful and certainly approachable, but this wine will be better with 2-4 years bottle age and should keep for at least two decades.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $137
Joseph Swan Vineyards Ziegler Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2011 750ML ($31.95) Was $28, Now $24, 36+ bottles available
Winery note “Tasting notes: Medium deep garnet color. Aromas of dark berry compote with hints of fig, baking spices and black pepper. In the mouth the aromas are echoed but with a bit more brightness due to its excellent acidity. Still fairly tannic. Decanting and/ or opening a couple of hours ahead of drinking is highly recommended for this young pup!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today of all Joseph Swan Zinfandel!
Joseph Drouhin Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy 2012 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “This bold, well-structured wine is packed with both rich fruit and tannins. Dense black fruits are layered with a dry, firm structure, with power and concentration for medium-term aging.”
Wine Spectator 90 points “Focused and vivid, with cherry, strawberry and chalk notes permeating the linear, tensile profile. Though intense, this remains smooth and long.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $48.98
For the complete list of our 73 December sale wines, see the bottom of this newsletter!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New Reviews for Kapcsandy
From Antonio Galloni
In 2000 Lou Kapcsandy discovered that the old Beringer State Lane vineyard, primary source for the Private Reserve Cabernet program, was ripped out due to phylloxera and was for sale. He bought the twenty acre vineyard, replanted it and starting in 2005 began producing some of the most lauded wines to come out of the Napa Valley.
Since then, fame and accolades have been showered upon the wines coming out of the Kapcsandy Family Winery. Every year, we try and buy as much as we can, but it never seems like there’s enough to go around, so consider yourself warned.
Newly Reviewed Kapcsandy Wines Available Here Now:
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Grand-Vin Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 3 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 98 points “A powerful, tightly-wound wine, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin is likely to require the better part of the next decade to come into its own. The most backward and brooding of these wines, the Grand Vin is also quite primary and closed in on itself. Still, the energy, drive and focus of the best vintages is very much in evidence. Today, the 2014 is dense, seamless and utterly impeccable, with no hard edges, beautifully integrated oak (100% new) and exceptional balance.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Estate Cuvee, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 3 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2014 Estate Cuvée is vibrant, intense and beautifully delineated. Super-expressive aromatics and finessed tannins give the 2014 its exceptional balance. Tasted next to the 2013, the 2014 feels like it has more freshness, brighter acidity and a bit more energy as well, which may be partly attributable to the slightly higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend and a touch less new oak as well. That is of course splitting hairs, as both wines are superb, but I find the energy, tension and vibrancy here absolutely compelling.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Holiday Shipping Guide
Plan Ahead Now / Toast Your Forethought Later
No UPS shipping services on December 31st, January 1st and January 2nd.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Trending Alert!
These are four of our most popular picks:
We’ve sold out of our in-store quantities three times – snag yours before it sells out for good:
Orin Swift Machete, California 2014 750ML ($49.95) $44 special, 10 bottles available
#6 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2016
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2014 Proprietary Red Blend Machete finished at 15.7% natural alcohol and is a blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah and Grenache aged 10 months in 40% new French oak. This wine, at 15,500 cases, is telltale opaque bluish/purple with a super nose of barbecue meat and herbs, blackberries, blueberries, white flowers and sweet, dark raspberries in the background. The wine has fabulous texture, great intensity, full-bodied power (15.7%), and a long, long finish. It is a killer effort and like the Abstract, probably best drunk in its first 5-6 years of life because of its charm.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Generous and expressive, big and brawny, offering a mouthful of tannins but also brimming with flavors and aromas, including Earl Grey tea, dark chocolate, dried violet and toasted gingerbread. Rich notes of plum and black cherry are balanced by forest floor and earthy accents, lingering on the long finish. Petite Sirah, Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2030.”
We offer 100 California red wines available here now! To see the full selection, visit our web store: www.vinopoliswineshop.com
Best deal of the December sale from the new and, gasp!, ‘modern’ upper tier of Chianti – our deep discount expires tonight!
Castello di Ama ‘San Lorenzo’, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2011 750ML ($57.95) Was $41.90, Now $29, 36+ bottles available
James Suckling 96 points “This has a dusty character on the nose with soil, dried fruit and blueberry. Flowers too. Full body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Tight and structured. Shows wonderful depth of fruit and beauty. Chewy. Better in 2016.” JS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $45
We offer 104 Tuscan options – available here now! To see the full selection, visit our web store: www.vinopoliswineshop.com
Utterly delicious and immensely drinkable Beaujolais from one of our favorite producers:
Daniel Bouland Cote de Brouilly Cuvee Melanie, Beaujolais 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 23 bottles available
Case-12 Daniel Bouland Cote de Brouilly Cuvee Melanie, Beaujolais 2015 750ML ($299.95) $289 special, 1 case available (that’s only $24.08/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2015 Cote de Brouilly Cuvee Melanie has a more primal bouquet compared to the 2015 Chiroubles: blackberry and bilberry fruit with almost slate-like aromas interwoven. There is great mineralite locked in here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin. This is very pure with a citric edge, hints of fig and date lending a little exoticism towards the finish whilst always remaining linear and tensile. This is another very impressive 2015 from Daniel Bouland.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
We offer 37 Beaujolais wines available here now. Read reviews and browse the full list at www.vinopoliswineshop.com
A classically-styled Chateauneuf to keep you warm on those cold January nights – drink now or cellar!
Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee, Rhone 2013 750ML ($69.95) $53.50 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee, Rhone 2013 750ML ($719.95) $588 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $49/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Deep ruby. Potent aromas of ripe dark berries, licorice pastille, woodsmoke, game and garrigue, plus a peppery nuance that adds spiciness and lift. Round and fleshy on the palate, offering intense blackberry and bitter cherry flavors that become livelier and sweeter with air. The very long, energetic, sharply focused finish features fine-grained tannins and subtle, lingering notes of dark berries and smoked meat.”
We offer 93 red Rhone wines available here now. Read reviews and browse the full list at www.vinopoliswineshop.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Our Current
Shipping Promos:
Welcome to the club, Colorado!
Along with Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California,
we now offer flat rate shipping to Colorado. Here’s the scoop:
Single orders of any quantity of wines qualify for the flat rate;
this does not apply to orders held in storage for any reason
or multiple orders consolidated into one shipment.
The flat reach for each state is, as follows:
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California & Colorado for $25
Take Advantage of the Flat Rate!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2006 Vintage Champagne
And Subscriber-Only Special!
2006 in Champagne represents an intersection of two of the things we like most in a vintage—high quality and lower prices. Stylistically, 2006 is somewhere in between 2002 and 2004—it’s not quite as ripe and powerful as ’02 but is a little less acid-driven than ’04. The resulting wines are delicious—medium bodied and entering the prime of their drinking window now, ten years from vintage.
There are also a remarkable number of good deals to be had on the wines. Coming on the heels of two good vintages (and before another spectacular year in ’08), we’ve found a bunch of wines at prices that we had a hard time passing up and so we’re passing them on to you.
2006 Champagnes Available Here Now:
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin La Grande Dame Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($149.95) $112 special, 23 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Bright and graceful, this seamlessly knits a subtle streak of smoke-tinged minerality with flavors of almond financier, poached pear, candied kumquat and crème de cassis, focused by vibrant acidity and a refined, creamy mousse. Drink now through 2030.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $154
Jacques Lassaigne Blanc de Blancs Millesime Brut Nature, Champagne 2006 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Sourced from Le Cotet, La Grande Cote and Les Paluets – which last-named is southeast-facing and arguably the top site in Montgueux, opines Lassaigne – his 2006 Brut Nature is intriguingly and alluringly scented with fresh lemon and apricot, peony and narcissus, rowan and pistachio, along with sea breeze intimations and a pungency of struck flint. Startlingly silken and creamy, yet focused and vibrantly juicy this adds a sort of shimmering, crystalline sense of stoniness to an almost kaleidoscopically interactive finish. It ought to merit following for 6-8 years. Incidentally, Lassaigne believes that a purer expression of vintage character will always be achieved by maturing this cuvee in tank.” DS
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 10 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Floral and ripe apricot notes ride the creamy bead of this elegant Champagne, accented by hints of black currant, pastry and candied kumquat. Bright and lively, with a hint of smoky mineral lingering on the finish. Disgorged in May 2015. Drink now through 2026. ”
De Sousa & Fils Cuvee des Caudalies Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($219.95) $119 special, 3 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “…Shows surprising vivacity for its power, offering intense orchard and citrus fruit flavors and a touch of iodine. Closes on a leesy note, with excellent thrust, a savory character and a touch of honeysuckle.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
J.L. Vergnon Expression Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Extra Brut Millesime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 9 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Vivid yellow. Mineral-driven pear skin, jasmine and anise scents are given depth and power by notes of yellow plum and buttered toast. The palate offers intense, deeply concentrated citrus and orchard fruit flavors, with suggestions of brioche and orange pith gaining strength with air. The mineral quality adds definition to the finish, which clings with excellent persistence and a lingering floral quality.” ST
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Featured 2006 Champagne: Dom Perignon
Newly Arrived
Subscriber-Only Special
Dom Perignon Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($179.95) $119 subscriber-only special, 24+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2006 Dom Pérignon is a beautifully balanced, harmonious Dom Pérignon that strikes an incredibly appealing stylistic middle ground. Rich, voluptuous and creamy, the 2006 shows off fabulous intensity in a style that brings together the ripeness of 2002 with the greater sense of verve and overall freshness that is such a signature of the 2004. Bass notes and a feeling of phenolic grip on the finish recall the 2003, as the Pinot Noir is particularly expressive today. After an irregular summer that saw elevated temperatures in July followed by cooler, damp conditions in August, more favorable weather returned in September, pushing maturation ahead and leading to a long, protracted harvest. The 2006 falls into the family of riper, more voluptuous Dom Pérignons, but without veering into the level of opulence seen in vintages such as 2002.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2006 Dom Pérignon comes from a very rich vintage with an early ripeness that brought a lot of aromatic maturity. The white-golden prestige cuvée contains a bit more Chardonnay than Pinot Noir and opens with a deep and seductive, pretty accessible nose with intense yet fresh fruit aromas of pineapples, with peaches and tangerines. Lively and elegant on the palate, this is a full-bodied, unusually aromatic and fruity DP with a long and tension-filled expression.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $173
$119 price limited to the 100 bottles that arrived Friday – only 44 bottles remaining!
Price will appear online
If purchasing in-store, please ask at the counter for the specially priced bottles.
Price expires when these final 44 bottles sell out!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Give the Gift that Never Expires!
We offer gift certificates in any amount with no taxes, fees or expiration date.
Gift certificates are not available through our web store. To order, please stop in, call or email. We are happy to mail gift certificates to any domestic address at no charge.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Champagne Treasures
Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Millesime, Champagne 2009 750ML ($219.95) $169 super special, 21 bottles available
James Suckling 97 points “A very rich and full-bodied Cristal that harks back to 2006 or 1989 in style. It’s round and rich, which underlies the ripeness of the vintage. Lots of dried-apple and pineapple character with bread dough and flan flavors. The bubbles are so fine you almost don’t notice them. Very vinous style. Drink now.”
Wine Enthusiast 97 points ***Cellar Selection*** “The latest incarnation of this famous Champagne now comes from Roderer’s own vineyards, a good portion of which are run on biodynamic lines. This still-young wine has great depth and richness, a beautiful balance between ripe fruit and crisp texture that make it alive, crisp and bright. As it matures, it will deepen and become even more intense. Drink now if you must, but preferably wait until 2019.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $217
Jacques Selosse Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Millesime, Champagne 2003 750ML ($519.95) $399 special, 13 bottles available
James Suckling 97 points “A wine that has an absolutely unique character, Selosse has interpreted a truly extraordinary vintage with poetic insight. He describes the double stresses of an April frost that claimed 75% of the yield in Avize, coupled with a very hot and dry June and August. He speaks of the evapotranspiration and the effect of depositing an immense amount of mineral residue into the plant, which has manifested in this striking wine, and compares it to a chef reducing and concentrating a sauce. The smoky, toasty notes are more than autolysis; you can smell the heat of the vintage here. It has profound stony and chalky aromas, gentle spices, grilled hazelnuts and dehydrated stone fruits. The minerals explode onto the palate. It’s electric, hitting like an ionic blast before rolling out dark nutty flavors ahead of plush orange and ripe nectarine, peach and big, rich phenolics. It has many layers through the finish. Extremely long, balanced and resolved. Drink now or age confidently for a fascinating savory journey – this has a sturdy nature.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $445
Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Brut, Champagne 1996 750ML ($399.95) $348 special, 7 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 97 points (December 2015); Antonio Galloni 96 points (March 2015)
“One of the all time greats from Philipponnat, the 1996 Clos des Goisses captures the essence of a vintage in which both sugars and acidities were elevated. Tension, energy and salinity are the signatures. Readers who can wait on the 1996 will be rewarded with a stunning bottle of Champagne that will likely still be profound at age fifty.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Pol Roger Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill, Champagne 2000 1.5L ($519.95) $419 special, 3 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The first thing that is evident about the 2000 Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill is its finesse and total silkiness. The 2000 is a rich, creamy and deeply expressive Winston Churchill. I don’t see the 2000 being an especially long-term ager, but it is wonderfully radiant and open today. Hints of pastry, spice, apricots and succulent ripe pears blossom on the expansive, broad-shouldered finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $425
Dom Perignon Limited Edition by Michael Riedel Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($199.95) $159 special, 11 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2006 Dom Pérignon is a beautifully balanced, harmonious Dom Pérignon that strikes an incredibly appealing stylistic middle ground. Rich, voluptuous and creamy, the 2006 shows off fabulous intensity in a style that brings together the ripeness of 2002 with the greater sense of verve and overall freshness that is such a signature of the 2004. Bass notes and a feeling of phenolic grip on the finish recall the 2003, as the Pinot Noir is particularly expressive today. After an irregular summer that saw elevated temperatures in July followed by cooler, damp conditions in August, more favorable weather returned in September, pushing maturation ahead and leading to a long, protracted harvest. The 2006 falls into the family of riper, more voluptuous Dom Pérignons, but without veering into the level of opulence seen in vintages such as 2002.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2006 Dom Pérignon comes from a very rich vintage with an early ripeness that brought a lot of aromatic maturity. The white-golden prestige cuvée contains a bit more Chardonnay than Pinot Noir and opens with a deep and seductive, pretty accessible nose with intense yet fresh fruit aromas of pineapples, with peaches and tangerines. Lively and elegant on the palate, this is a full-bodied, unusually aromatic and fruity DP with a long and tension-filled expression.”
Krug Brut, Champagne 2003 750ML ($279.95) $199 special, 19 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Like taffeta in texture, this harmonious Champagne is finely honed and fresh. A wonderfully expressive version, with ample spice and graphite accents to the blackberry pâte de fruit, coffee liqueur, dried apricot, singed orange peel and crystallized honey notes. Hard to stop sipping.”
James Suckling 95 points “A rich nose with deep, ripe chardonnay and pinot noir, red fruits, some dark mushrooms and plenty of grilled nuts, plus caramel, some deep spices, dried citrus, lemon peel and bready aromas. The trademark complexity is here and it freshens with air. The palate is intricately detailed and stitched together like needlework; very precise, very even. The acidity is articulated with some finesse and yet it has much more in terms of phenolics as the leading structural component. The phenolics are rich and ripe, sitting polished and even around immensely concentrated fruit with flavors of peach, nectarine and white cherry. The finish is deep, even and resonant. Drink now but rest assured it will hold for a very long time, just like Krug has proven in other warm years like ’76.”
With 1,732 bottles of Champagne in-stock, you’re certain to find what you need in time for New Years! Visit our web store to browse the full selection: www.vinopoliswineshop.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bubbly Case Deals
Case-6 Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut, Anderson Valley 2009 750ML ($259.95) $179 special, 3 six-packs available (that’s only $29.83/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut, Anderson Valley 2009 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “[$48 list] A luxurious sparkler, with toasty brioche, mineral and lemon brûlée aromas and rich, complex flavors of crisp apple and raspberry, showing accents of fresh ginger and spice.”
Case-12 Aubry Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($479.95) $399 special, 1 case available (that’s only $33.25/bottle!)
Aubry Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine & Spirits 92 points “This tastes of pure, pale white limestone transformed into crisp yellow apple. It’s appetite inducing in its zesty freshness, bright white floral notes and clean, lively length of flavor, especially if there are oysters nearby. The Aubry brothers maintain a reserve wine blend composed of vintages going back to 1998; that blend provides 50 percent of this Brut, with the other half from 2013. The varietal composition is also distinctive: pinot Meunier makes up 45 percent, with chardonnay and pinot noir each providing 25 percent and the remaining five percent made up of traditional local varieties including arbanne, petit meslier and fromenteau.”
Case-12 Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($479.95) $359 special, 1 case available (that’s only $29.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 21 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The NV Brut Grande Reserve emerges from the glass with layers of hazelnut, pear, spice and dried flower aromas. This rich, creamy wine impresses for its balance and sheer richness. I loved it.” AG
Case-12 Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($479.95) $359 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $29.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 36 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The NV Brut Nature Silver is naturally a very focused, driven wine given the no-dosage style. This shows wonderful nuance and depth all the way through to the long finish, with bright aromas and flavors but less of the toastiness than some of the house’s other wines. The mousse and finish are both utterly impeccable in their elegance.” AG
Case-12 Pierre Peters Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($579.95) $519 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $43.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Pierre Peters Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($59.95) $48 special, 14 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Fragrant, with floral and mineral accents, this vibrant blanc de blancs shows tropical hints of passion fruit and guava layered with salted almond and honey notes. Finely knit, featuring a lasting, delicate finish.”
Wine Advocate 91+ points “The NV Cuvée de Réserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut is a blend of 60 parcels in the Côte des Blancs, so 100% Chardonnay. The newest disgorgement from November 2015 is based on 2013, which was “a great year for Chardonnay,” according to Rodolphe Péters. There were “102 or 103 instead of the normal 90 to 93 days between flowering, and harvest simply caused another, a better ripeness,” he adds. Fifty percent of the blend is based on 2013, the other 50% come from the perpetual réserve, which is stored in stainless steel, cement and oak vats. The wine has a brilliant color, is very clear, precise and complex on the nose, displaying fresh lemon fruit aromas. Intense and complex as well as super fresh and clear on the palate, this elegant wine is still very young, but offers a stunning fruit intensity and a firm and mineral structure; there is a long and complex finish with a refreshing grip. Very promising. The Cuvée de Réserve has been in the markets since April. Dosage is 6.7 grams.”
Case-12 Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($279.95) $219 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($26.95) $21.90 special, 34 bottles available
100% Chardonnay from Collet’s Grand Cru & Premier Cru Pargues Vineyards
Importer note “Romain vinifies his base wines completely in steel before bottling and the addition of liqueur de tirage, and allows the wine to sit on its lees for fifteen months before disgorgement and a minute dosage, allowing the fruit of his pedigreed family vineyards to express itself. The wine is as precise as a bell and as refreshing as spring water; on the nose there is orange blossom, copper minerals and gardenia. The palate is as vinous and minerally as his superb still Chablis. The finish is dry, almost saline with caressing, gentle mousse and flavors of oyster shells, apricot and key lime. Disgorged July 2015. Enjoy this beauty as an aperitif, or with Dungeness crab, salt cod gratin or pasta carbonara.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.95
Case-6 Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut, Champagne NV (2012) 750ML ($479.95) $336 special, 6 half-cases available (that’s only $56/bottle!)
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut, Champagne NV (2012) 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The NV (2012) Extra Brut Fidele is another fabulous wine from Vouette & Sorbée. Here, the richness of Pinot Noir comes through loud and clear in the wine’s depth and overall richness. Creamy and beautifully layered throughout, the 2012 hits all the right notes. Red berry, mint, flowers, sweet spices and candy fill out the wine’s broad frame effortlessly. What a gorgeous wine this is. Simply put, the 2012 is a total knock-out.”
Staff Pick Notes: The 2012 is best described as a marriage of the previous releases. Here we find the heady fig, floral and orchard fruit notes of the 2009 with the solid acidity and grace of the 2011 and the spice, body, length and structure of the 2010. It’s a mélange of distinct flavors, the complexity is astounding, all balanced by the unique influence of the savory-salty wisp of butterscotch and preserved lemon notes from the reserve wine base. The Fidele is made with a small amount of reserve wine held in solera and topped off with each vintage. It gives the wine a core note of lightly oxidation that shows more or less depending upon the vintage. This year, that note hit the mid-palate with a. I particularly like the way it plays off the richness and aromatics to keep everything in balance. I suggest decanting the Champagne if you must break into it now (the Champagne showed even better the second night) otherwise cellar for a couple years. –Suzanne
Case-6 Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV (2012) 750ML ($599.95) $438 special, 3 six-packs available (that’s only $73/bottle!)
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV (2012) 750ML ($109.95) $79 special, 23 bottles available
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV (2012) 1.5L ($199.95) $179 special, 8 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Vouette & Sorbée NV (2012) Extra-Brut Blanc d’Argile is superb. Deep, rich and powerful, the 2012 shows just how compelling Champagnes can be. A Champagne of baritone depth and intensity, the 2012 flows effortlessly throughout the mid-palate as the flavors and textures crescendo on the expressive finish. Readers who enjoy rich, vinous Champagnes will adore the 2012.”
Case-6 Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut, Champagne (2011) NV 750ML (419.95) $269 special, 3 six-packs available (that’s only $44.83/bottle!)
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut, Champagne (2011) NV 750ML ($79.95) $49 special, 18 bottles available
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut, Champagne 2011 1.5L ($199.95) $119 special, 6 magnums available
Winery note “[Translated] Our desire as a domaine is to remain discreet stylistically while genuinely showcasing the character of each vintage. Cuvee Fidele does so by definition. This wine shows all of the vinous flavors of Pinot Noir with expressions of limestone (a sign of the pure Kimmeridgian soil) and persistent aromas due to vinification completely in wood.”
We offer 67 additional case deals, in-stock and available here now! See the full list under our DozenDeals category on our shopping page at www.vinopoliswineshop.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Budget Friendly Bubbly Picks
Perk up your next soiree with these budget-friendly sparklers!
Our top budget-friendly bargain!
Roederer Estate Brut, Anderson Valley NV 750ML ($24.95) $16 super special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “Thickly moussed, Roederer’s Brut, 60% Chardonnay blended with 40% Pinot Noir, aged two years on yeast is affordable and luxurious. A gorgeous, very dry sparkling wine with aromatics of honey, raisin, apple and pear, it is rich and soft and offers both depth and length. It’s an ideal marriage of bright acidity and ripe fruit character.” WE
Wine Spectator 90 points “Elegantly balances lively crispness with plush, rich fruit and notes of fresh cherry, baked apple and brioche, ending with a long, minerally finish. Drink now.”
A classically styled Cali sparkler from Moet & Chandon!
Domaine Chandon Blanc de Noirs, California NV 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles available
Producer Notes–“Blanc de Noirs is characteristically marked by cherry, currant and strawberry aromas and flavors. These red fruit flavors build in the mid-palate and finish with a soft, lingering creamy texture.”
A sweet deal on Moscato!
Paolo Saracco Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2015 Moscato d’Asti shows sweet sensations of honey, white flower and citrus. The wine is fresh and buoyant with herbs and chopped sage at the back. Light effervescence adds to the wine’s intensity and momentum. There is enormous softness here with creamy vanilla and tangy orange twist. This is a delicious Moscato d’Asti that is best consumed within the next 12 months.”
A grower Champagne for under $30? But is it good? Why yes… very!
Thierry Triolet Cuvee Grande Reserve Blanc de Blancs, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $29 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(11 g/l dosage): Pale gold. Intense citrus and orchard fruit aromas are complicated by notes of honeysuckle, tarragon and iodine. Chewy tangerine and pear skin flavors become silkier and spicier with aeration. Shows a seductive floral quality on the clinging finish, which features a dusty mineral nuance and a touch of buttered toast.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $35
Lean and minerally from an esteemed Chablis producer!
Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($26.95) $21.90 special, 34 bottles available
Case-12 Domaine Collet Pere et Fils Cremant de Bourgogne Brut, Burgundy NV 750ML ($279.95) $219 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
100% Chardonnay from Collet’s Grand Cru & Premier Cru Pargues Vineyards
Importer note “Romain vinifies his base wines completely in steel before bottling and the addition of liqueur de tirage, and allows the wine to sit on its lees for fifteen months before disgorgement and a minute dosage, allowing the fruit of his pedigreed family vineyards to express itself. The wine is as precise as a bell and as refreshing as spring water; on the nose there is orange blossom, copper minerals and gardenia. The palate is as vinous and minerally as his superb still Chablis. The finish is dry, almost saline with caressing, gentle mousse and flavors of oyster shells, apricot and key lime. Disgorged July 2015. Enjoy this beauty as an aperitif, or with Dungeness crab, salt cod gratin or pasta carbonara.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.95
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2016 Story of the Year
Brunello
It’s always fun for us to look back at the year and think about what regions inspired us (and you, based on sales). In that vein, 2016 was clearly the Year of Brunello. The 2010 vintage was obviously excellent, and hyped as such by the press, and so there was a lot of clamor for it, which was definitely the right reaction. It also meant that the 2011 vintage, which was softer and more forward (ie: perfect for drinking right now) became heavily discounted, and so we sold (and continue to sell) a ton of those as well. It continues to look more and more as if the 2011’s are steals, as prices are generally fairly discounted off of the premium the ’10’s commanded.
We continue to carry a lot of Brunello, and there are over 40 available on our website, but we wanted to highlight a few today:
Deal of the Year in Brunello – Why spend more than 50% more anywhere else?
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Riserva, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2006 750ML ($699.95) $319 special, 17 bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “A mix of sweet cherry, raspberry, floral, tobacco, tea and balsamic flavors mingle in this complex and layered red. The acidity and tannins are present and well-integrated as this remains elegant and harmonious on the lingering finish. There’s a racy aspect, with a tobacco and mineral aftertaste. Best from 2016 through 2035.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva comes across as a bit reticent. It reveals lovely detail and nuance, but without the firmness of many other young vintages. Today the 2006 is quite accessible. I will be surprised if it doesn’t start shutting down at some point. Regardless, the 2006 appears to be built more on finesse rather than power. Freshly cut flowers, hard candy and licorice are layered into the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2046.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $489.50
The average price is $544
Tenute del Cerro ‘La Poderina’ Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2006 750ML ($74.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles available
James Suckling 95 points “Blueberries, flowers and raspberries. Love the nose, like so many others. Full body, with fine tannins and a silky textured finish. So much going on here. Class”JS
Pian dell’Orino ‘Vigneti del Versante’, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 13 bottles available
Pian dell’Orino ‘Vigneti del Versante’, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 1.5L ($249.95) $219 special, 1 magnum available
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Vigenti del Versante takes us back to a classic profile for Brunello (the local name for Sangiovese). The wine is forthcoming and confident with power and heft at the back. The bouquet shows enormous complexity that starts off with bright red fruit and opens slowly to reveal more detailing with etched mineral, crushed oyster shell, balsam herb, cola, licorice and red rose petal. There’s a tight firmness of the tannins that should be very important to the future aging of this wine. The acidity is bright and balanced as well. It contributes to a very long and polished finish. This is a gorgeous Brunello.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Vigne del Versante from Pian dell’Orino is one of the most powerful wines of the night. Rich, dense and explosive, the Vigne del Versante Amiata is a wine for the patient. Although most 2010 Brunellos have not begun to shut down, this is one wine that is a bit less expressive than it was the last time I tasted it. Still, the potential here is both significant and evident.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2010 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 34 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a big, powerful wine that is going to require at least a few years to soften. Dark and brooding, the Riserva shows the more masculine side of Sangiovese. Black cherry, plum, leather, spice and tobacco all sit on firm beams of acidity and tannin. There is a sense of explosive energy to the 2010 that I find quite appealing, but readers will have to be patient in order to experience the wine at its best.”
Tenuta Col d’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 1.5L ($149.95) $99 special, 14 magnums available
Wine Spectator 93 points “This smells like beef bouillon, picking up pure cherry and plum fruit on the palate, along with savory elements. Lean, with well-integrated tannins and a long, meaty finish of tobacco and earth. Best from 2018 through 2030.”
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Col d’Orcia’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Vendemmia is all finesse. Sweet floral and spiced notes open up in the glass, followed by veins of bright red stone fruits. Hints of orange peel and white pepper add an attractive, beguiling upper register of aromatics. The 2010 is still a bit raw and much less expressive than it was from barrel, but it is promising.”
Altesino Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($599.95) $549 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $45.75/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Altesino’s 2011 Brunello di Montalcino opens with beguiling aromatics. Sage, licorice, menthol and sweet tobacco flesh out nicely as the wine shows off its ample, broad personality. The tannins could use another year or two to soften, but all the elements are very nicely balanced throughout. This gracious, silky Brunello will drink well for the next decade-plus.”
James Suckling 92 points “This is long and delicious with lovely cherry, chocolate and fresh walnut flavors. Linear yet open with persistence and joy. Drink now.”
Browse our full list of 40 in-stock Brunello wines below. To read reviews or order, visit our web store at www.vinopoliswineshop.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
December Sales Recap
Our sale pricing ends tonight!
We’re up to 73 wines on special sale through the month of December! These sales expire tonight at midnight!
Read reviews and browse the full selection of sale wines by searching for “December Sale” on our web store – we’re also happy to talk you through the offerings if you email us at info@vinopoliswineshop.com or call 503-223-6002.
