Featured New Arrival: Opus 2013; Avignonesi Vin Santos; New Weekend – New Arrivals; New Wine Advocate Reviews: Piedmont; Stonestreet Cabernet: Wine of the Week – Sale of the Week; #Trending; Cascina delle Rose; Domaine du Collier: The Next Rougeard; Produttori del Barbaresco: 2008 Library Releases; Bernard Moreau: Chassagne Excellence in Red and White; Two Ks / 198 Points
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Summer Shipping Special:
Midwest, East, & South
For the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments normally traveling 4 or more business days by ground.
Free service upgrade only applies on single orders purchased and shipped during the promotional period. Additional fees will apply to orders held for any reason until after the promotional period and shipped by Three Day Select. Offer not valid on items purchased before the promotional period or on pre-arrival items that arrive after the promotional period ends.
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Featured New Arrival
Opus One Proprietary Red Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($299.95) $269 special
James Suckling 100 points “The greatest Opus ever. Terrific aromas of crushed black currants, blueberries and flowers with hints of sweet tobacco. Roses continue to exude opulence and class. Full body, superb balance of ultra-fine tannins and vibrant acidity. Complex aftertaste of black fruits and citrus fruit. Extremely persistent. So approachable now and enjoyable. But will be even better in 2019 and beyond. 79% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc, 6% merlot, 6% petit verdot, 2% malbec. This will always be beautiful to drink.” (01/2016)
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
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Back in Stock
Avignonesi Vin Santos
Vin Santo is a special dessert wine made in Central Italy from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes. Rarer still is the Occhio di Pernice, or eye of the partridge, a rose style made from Sangiovese grapes. Grapes selected for Vin Santos are picked as whole clusters and traditionally left to dry on straw mats in the warm rafters of buildings. Very little has changed in production despite the pulsing waves of modernity running through Italian winemaking. Today we’re focusing on the very special bottlings from Avignonesi. The estate produces some of the most magical among the Vin Santos, and their Occhio di Pernice is transcendent.
In Stock Now
Avignonesi Occhio di Pernice Vin Santo di Montepulciano 2001 375ML ($319.95) $259 special
Monica Larner – 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!
Avignonesi Vin Santo di Montepulciano 2001 375ML ($219.95) $179 special
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2001 Vin Santo di Montepulciano (375 milliliters) is a divine and superbly delicious sweet blend of Trebbiano, Malvasia and Grechetto. The results are super concentrated and simmered down to a virtual reduction sauce of deliciousness. There are so many aromas to name, but some of the most evident highlights include candied orange peel, almond marzipan, caramel, toasted coffee bean, vanilla stick, mocha, dark honey and fragrant yellow rose. The mouthfeel is creamy, rich and deeply layered. I’m suggesting a slightly shorter drinking window here compared to the Occhio di Pernice. But, the truth is: I have no idea. I’m pretty sure these wines will outlive anyone of legal drinking age.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!\
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New Weekend – New Arrivals
Washington
Case-12 Charles Smith K Vintners ‘M.C.K. Motor City Kitty’ Syrah 2014 750ML ($479.95) $399 special (that’s only $33.25/bottle!)
Charles Smith K Vintners ‘M.C.K. Motor City Kitty’ Syrah 2014 750ML ($39.95) $36 special
Wine Advocate 95 points “Named after a cat owned by Charles when he was living in Walla Walla, the 2014 M C K Syrah sports a deep purple color as well as ripe, decadent notes of black fruits, plums, graphite, crushed rock and licorice. Big, sexy, seamless and pure, with present, yet ripe tannin, drink it through 2024. It’s worth noting that this comes completely from the River Rock vineyard in this vintage. As usual, it’s a crazy value.”
Wine Enthusiast 93 points –Editors’ Choice–“This aromatically brooding wine brings aromas of brown stems, scorched earth, smoked meat, iron, violets, orange peel and blue and black fruit. The flavors coat the palate from end to end with silky soft, unabashedly appealing fruit and savory notes. It hits the delicious gong hard, with an enduring finish.”
Charles Smith K Vintners The Creator Cabernet – Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “An 80/20 Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah blend from the Powerline Vineyard, the 2014 The Creator is killer stuff. Cassis, black olive, crushed rock, dusty earth and graphite characteristics emerge from this wild, gamey, full-bodied and impeccably balanced red. It stays lightly textured and graceful, with fine tannin, but it’s a big, rich wine that’s going to benefit from short term cellaring and keep for 15-20 years.”
Italy – Piedmont
De Forville Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Piedmont 2016 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Importer note “The Moscato is harvested from the vineyards in Castagnole Lanze and is vinified in stainless steel as a naturally sparkling wine with residual sugar. The vines are approximately 25 years of age (as of 2011). The fermentation is blocked when the wine achieves about 5% alcohol and the wine is bottled in late winter or the early spring of the following year.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
De Forville Barbera d’Alba, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Importer note “This vibrant, full-bodied red is a blend of grapes harvested in parcels spread amongst the three communes of Barbaresco, Neive and Alba. Included as the primary source are grapes harvested in the cru “Ga’Grosso” in Barbaresco. The grapes are crushed and are then fermented in stainless steel for almost two weeks after which the wine is racked into oak barrels and “botti” for one year prior to bottling. The average age of the vines is 30 years.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
De Forville Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
Importer note “This cuvée is a selection of Nebbiolo from the younger vines of the various “cru” in Barbaresco supplemented by grapes from the neighboring village of Neive. The average age of the vines is 30 years. The wine is fermented in stainless steel for 10 days to 2 weeks and then is refined in large oak barrels for an additional year before being bottled. An astonishing value … as are all of the fine wines from this remarkable estate.”
De Forville Vigneto Loreto, Barbaresco DOCG 2013 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special
Importer note “The exceptional Loreto “cru” of Barbaresco is the source for this most profound wine of the De Forville estate. As with the Barbaresco “Normale”, the juice is fermented in stainless steel and then racked into large oak “botti” for about two years of aging before being bottled. Vines are approximately 35 years of age (as of 2011). More full-bodied and dense than the “Normale”, the “Loreto” also has additional aging capacity.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($749.95) $649 special (that’s only $54.08/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Among the more structured 2008s, the Montestefano is the wine that most hides its tannin, as the fruit is intensely perfumed, rich and totally seductive. Today the Montestefano provides the illusion of being relatively accessible, but it is virtually certain to shut down in bottle. The 2008 boasts striking aromatics, seemingly endless layers of fruit and power to burn. Readers can think of the Montestefano as a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabajà. Not bad, to say the least.”
Don’t miss the special section below listing of all 2008 library Produttori Crus arriving on Friday 14th!
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New Reviews from Monica Larner of Wine Advocate
From Monica Larner: “2013 Barolo: A return to the classics. This vintage offers outstanding exuberance of fruit with noble tannins that drive an elegant and expansive mouthfeel. If you love age-worthy Nebbiolo, then stock your cellar with 2013 Barolo.
“2015 and 2016 Barbera and Dolcetto: Happy Campers. If 2015 wasn’t already an ideal vintage, 2016 was even better. Both Barbera and Dolcetto love bright sunshine and warm sunbeams. They got both in generous supply. These vintages were warm but never too hot. Barrel samples of Barolo and Barbaresco are truly exceptional.”
Experience the exceptional and browse our selection of newly reviewed wines from Piedmont:
G. B. Burlotto Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2015 Langhe Nebbiolo is a refined and elegant expression that underlines a few basic truths about the Nebbiolo grape. It shows a luminous garnet color and delicate aromas that lift gently from the glass. Rose hip, violet, wild berry, tar and licorice are part of the pact. The mouthfeel shows tension and energy, but you also get a silky and long finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $26
Produttori del Barbaresco Nebbiolo di Langhe, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 16 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “Fruit for the 2015 Langhe Nebbiolo is completely sourced from vineyards that are officially registered to make Barbaresco. Clusters are selected from the youngest vines and from the lower vineyard parcels (or other spots that do not meet the more stringent Barbaresco standards). This vintage shares some obvious similarities to 2011 in that the fruit is very ripe, round, supple and immediate. The wine is an absolute pleasure to drink right now, and it should hold for another five years without too much hassle. The alcoholic power is apparent (at 14.5%). The wine is a subtle shade darker in appearance with soft tannins and intense fruit. This wine gives us a very good sneak peek at what the 2015 Barbaresco expressions will be like.”
Conterno Fantino Sori Ginestra, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special, ETA July
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2013 Barolo Ginestra Vigna Sorì Ginestra shows a whole other level of fiber and textural richness. This is a stunning wine from thicker soils that deliver more structure, firmness and overall depth. With that superiore richness, the wine is also endowed with balanced acidity, plump primary fruit and an elegant touch of balsam or menthol herb on the finish. This drives the finish forward for a few long and glorious minutes. Dig deeper still, and you find a sweet note of chocolate hazelnut.”
E. Pira & Figli Chiara Boschis Cannubi, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA Fall
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2013 Barolo Cannubi is a fine and sculpted wine that has benefitted from the cool vintage conditions and the long growing season. The wine shows a very pretty nose with wild berry aromas followed by pressed rose, ash, wild mint, tea and earthy black truffle. It shows fine tannins that are slightly camouflaged by the generosity of the fruit. The Cannubi cru offers extreme elegance and finesse. Despite those svelte contours, this wine is built to last.”
Elio Grasso Gavarini Vigna Chiniera, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA Fall
Elio Grasso Gavarini Vigna Chiniera, Barolo DOCG 2013 1.5L ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special, ETA Fall
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2013 Barolo Gavarini Chiniera stands apart in this tasting of Elio Grasso’s new releases. The fruit portrayed shows a very crisp and focused quality. It absolutely pops from the glass with brilliant sharpness. Gianluca Grasso tells me lab reports confirm the higher acidic tenor of the wine, although this is not necessarily perceived acidity that you taste. Aromas of wild berry, balsam herb, licorice and smoke emerge delicately from the bouquet. The wine’s mouthfeel evokes a profound sense of elegance thanks to those noble tannins and its silky texture.”
Elio Grasso Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA Fall
Elio Grasso Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate, Barolo DOCG 2013 1.5L ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special, ETA Fall
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2013 Barolo Ginestra Casa Maté does a great job of portraying its vineyard characteristics. This single vineyard is located at higher altitudes with thicker clay soils. This combination helps to build the wine’s intensity, structure and muscle. It undergoes 45 days of submerged cap fermentation. Dark cherry and blackberry open the bouquet. These aromas are followed by spice, smoke, iron and crushed mineral. The robust nature of those aromas makes for a beautiful contrast to the fine, silky and more delicate (relatively speaking) nature of the mouthfeel.”
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Stonestreet Cab
Wine of the Week – Sale of the Week
Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2014 750ML ($44.95) Was $29, Now $24
Case-6 Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2014 750ML ($239.95) Was $149, Now $129 (that’s only $21.50/bottle!)
Sonoma Magazine / Press Democrat – Four Stars, Wine of the Week “($40) A bottle of Screaming Eagle will set you back $850. With this in mind, you may be in the market for a cult-cab substitute, a knockout that’s a steal for the quality. We had an impressive line-up of bottlings that over-delivered, and the best deal in the flight is our wine of the week winner — the Stonestreet Estate Vineyards, 2014 Alexander Valley, Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, at $40. The Stonestreet is an impressive cab with layered flavors of black cherry, tobacco and cocoa. It has a round texture, and a nice length.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $35
More Great Case Picks
From Around the World
All Best Prices, Too!
Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Chardonnay, Alexander Valley 2014 750ML ($31.95) $24 special
Case-12 Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Chardonnay, Alexander Valley 2014 750ML ($359.95) $249 special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
Robert Parker 92 points “The 2014 Stonestreet Estate Chardonnay is superb, with plenty of white peach and poached pear notes, beautiful purity, a lusty, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, subtle French oak, and terrific fruit and honeysuckle. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $31
Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque Brut Millesime Rose, Champagne 2005 750ML ($349.95) $149 special
Case-6 Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque Brut Millesime Rose, Champagne 2005 750ML ($1,799.95) $799 special (that’s only $133.17/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “The palest of rosés, this crisp, bright and fruity wine is full of tight acidity, freshly picked raspberries and steely acidity. It could age a few more years to bring out a toastier character.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Even lower than auction!
The next best price is $250
The average price is $326
Lavau Cotes du Rhone Villages, Rhone 2013 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special
Case-12 Lavau Cotes du Rhone Villages, Rhone 2013 750ML ($179.95) $119 special (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 88 points “Juicy blackberry and raspberry fruit races along, inlaid with subtle black tea and anise notes. Focused finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $12.74
Case-12 Coto de Gomariz Blanco, Ribeiro 2014 750ML ($299.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Coto de Gomariz Blanco, Ribeiro 2014 750ML ($24.95) $18 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “They have changed the label and image for the white 2014 Coto de Gomariz, which is mainly Treixadura with some 30% between Godello, Albariño and Loureira grown on different soils, granite, schist and clay in the village of Gomariz. This is an unoaked cuvée matured in stainless steel until the following spring when it’s bottled. The wine is very clean and expressive, serious, full of white flowers and with the fuller palate of the Treixadura, which gives it a great textured mouthfeel. Treixadura takes longer to ripen as it’s almost a tannic white variety, with a faint bitter aftertaste. This is a structured, complex white (despite being young), able to age and able to stand to powerful food, including white meat. Great showing for this wine in 2014.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $23!
Case-12 Maitia ‘Aupa Pipeno’, Maule Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $128 special (that’s only $10.67/bottle!)
Maitia ‘Aupa Pipeno’, Maule Valley 2016 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The super-tasty and gulpable 2016 Aupa Pipeño is a blend of País with some 30% Carignan (and whatever is found in the old vineyards) from a slightly cooler year. It keeps the style of previous vintages with the bright red fruit and the freshness of short macerations. In the dry-farming part of Maule they only saw 30 to 50 millimeters of rain when in the central valley they got 200! These grapes were harvested before the rain anyway, but the wine retains the freshness of a cooler year, fresher than 2015, more in line with the 2014 and 2013.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
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#Trending
Wines More Relevant Than John Podesta
Weingut Keller Scheurebe Kabinett, Rheinhessen 2016 750ML ($34.95) $29 special, 24 bottles available
VinopolNote: “Long live Scheurebe! Keller is a master of most things and this bundle of fun is no exception. We can think of no better wine to drink with spicy Thai or Indian food (or just on a back porch). It’s lightly sweet and one of those wines defies you to not smile while drinking. Grin and love it.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Raul Perez Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo 2015 750ML ($21.95) $17.80 special, 33 bottles available
Grapelive 93 points “It was a great honor to meet and taste with Raul Perez, one of Spain’s most heroic and influential winemakers (also known as the godfather of Mencia). Perez has mentored many rising stars, including Pedro Rodriguez and Veronica Ortega, whose wines I recently discovered and who is still working with him. Raul Perez’s lineup was mind-blowing and lived up to my huge expectations in every way. I was wildly thrilled with each and every one of these offerings, especially this new Ultra Saint Jacques Bierzo Tinto that delivers wonderful depth and complexity at a price that makes it a bargain by any standards. [It is] made from mainly from Mencia, but with some inter planted Bastardo (thought to be Trousseau) and Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) coming off vines that average about 75 years old. This dark and ripe vintage shows an almost Northern Rhone-like character and has an earthy/savory/spicy edge like a lighter Cornas. This was fermented with native yeasts, about 80% whole cluster in large oak cask with long macerations lasting between 2 and 5 months and then aged in mixed vessels including some cement, as well as 225L and 500L oak. [It was bottled] unfined and unfiltered. It’s pretty in detail with violet/floral tones, peppercorn and a medium body that flows with sweet tannins. It shows vibrant but smooth acidity, and flinty mineral elements as well as a core of loganberry, plum, candied cherry and tart currant fruits as well as salted black licorice, lavender, pipe tobacco, shale stones, earthy charms and a hint of cinnamon. This 2015 is lovely stuff that drinks very well right now and should prove pleasing for 3 to 5 years. For this price you’ll want a case!”
VinopolNote: This is the entry level wine that Perez makes and is a great introduction to wines of Bierzo without the Palacios flash. Pure fruit married to an attractive earthiness and minerality, it’s a great snapshot of the house style.
Azienda Agricola La Torre Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($37.95) $29.50 special, 36+ bottles available
Neal Rosenthal note “aged for 18 months in large oak casks of French origin with about 10% of the ultimate cuvée being aged in small French barrels. The vines for this wine also face full-south. One thousand or so cases of the Rosso di Montalcino are produced annually.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Collotte Marsannay En Combereau, Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML ($34.95) $18 special, 33 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points “Pure black cherry, black currant and mineral flavors mark this concentrated, juicy red. Balanced and well-structured, with a lingering aftertaste. Drink now through 2024.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $31
Terlato Family Vineyards Pinot Grigio Colli Orientali del Friuli, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2015 750ML ($24.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles available
The Tasting Panel 93 points “No doubt this prestigious region in northeast Italy shines when it comes to white wines; an envious position on the world wine stage. This pretty, crisp white certainly shows ripeness in its concentrated notes of pear, peach and grapefruit but its stoney frame is a nod to the iconic mineral rich sloped terraced vineyards responsible for its pizazz and charm. The finish is clean, punctuated with an apricot accent.”
James Suckling 90 points “A rich and lightly oily pinot grigio with sliced mango and light banana aromas and flavors. Dense and flavorful. It’s a white that offers plenty of flavor and interest for the buck. Delicious finish. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $20
Zorzal Eggo Franco Cabernet Franc, Tupungato 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The second vintage I tasted from this Cabernet Franc, the 2015 Eggo Franco is produced, like many of their wines, with grapes from Tupungato Winelands in Gualtallary. It fermented in cement eggs with some stems and with 50% of the wine kept in contact with skins for some three to four months, then pressed and put back in the eggs to complete its élevage, which lasted some nine months. It shows a mixture of herbal and candied berry aromas, hints of beef blood and iron. The absence of oak shows the naked tannins and provides an earthy side, which to me is very much the wild character of Gualtallary. 6,000 bottles were filled in December 2015 (it was harvested in March).”
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Rose, Rhone 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Bright orange-pink. Ripe red berries and blood orange on the fragrant nose. In a warm, fleshy style, offering juicy, nicely concentrated raspberry and orange zest flavors that turn livelier on the back half. Smooth and seamless on the impressively persistent and penetrating finish, which leaves a sappy red berry note behind.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $25
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Cascina delle Rose
Cascina delle Rose seems to have a foot in the world of family-oriented, rustic wines, what with the label showing their dog and cat playing with a swallow, but the wines definitely hold onto a more serious side. There’s an elegance to their offerings that belies the simplicity of their image.
The wines are not points darlings, and perhaps this is where there beauty comes from. To say that these are light wines is almost understatement. The wines are pressed extremely gently and Davide, the winemaker and son of the owner Giovanna, seems to want to avoid taking these wines past the minimum extraction necessary to make them recognizable as Piedmont classics. Their Tre Stella Barbaresco is the weightiest of all of the offerings, but even so, the wine is translucent and lifting, seemingly ready to knife through some braised lamb shank or fatty coppa.
Cascina delle Rose makes wines that are ready to drink, open and accessible. A touch of age won’t hurt, adding a little note of wild forest floor to the mix. These are the definition of wines that want to be a part of dinner. They’ll dance on their own, but really want to cut a rug with whatever is on the table.
Available here now from Cascina delle Rose:
Cascina delle Rose Donna Elena Barbera d’Alba Superiore, Piedmont 2013 750ML ($31.95) $28 special
Winery note “The grapes for this wine are sourced from a specific selection of old clones and the wine is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels for approximately 20 months. Intense ruby red with garnet reflections. Complex bouquet, of macerated fruits (cherry, plum, black cherry), slightly spicy (cinnamon, cloves) with a dark chocolate finish. Good tannic balance. Intense, warm, and persistent with particular elegance and deepness. It paired well with red meats, lamb, medium seasoned cheeses.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $37.50
Cascina delle Rose Barbera d’Alba, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Winery note “Aged in large Slavonian oak barrels for approximately 15 months. Deep ruby red with slight garnet reflections. Show a freshness typical of Barbera with hints of cherry, blackberry, raspberry and cassis. A touch of balsamic gives finesse to the slightly spicy bouquet. Good tannins and persistence. It’s elegant and balanced. It pairs well with red meat, medium cheeses and fish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Cascina delle Rose A Elizabeth Dolcetto d’Alba, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Winery note “Bright ruby red with violet hues and crisp on the palate, with a delicate scent of wild rose and violet, cherry, red fruits and gooseberry. Elegant notes cinnamon and cloves. Good structure and acidity with silky tannins and lovely aromatic persistence.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Cascina delle Rose Nebbiolo Langhe, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($29.95) $26 special
Winery note “Bright garnet red. Floral and elegant notes of roses and violet (which is classic of the Tre Stelle); a direct, deep, and clear expression of the vineyard. Notes of fruit (maraschino cherries, berries), vanilla, leather, and tobacco. Dry, balanced and enduring, with dense texture of fine and silky tannins, great elegance and persistence. It goes well with salami, cured ham, red and white meat, and medium-aged cheeses.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2013 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2013 Barbaresco Tre Stelle is quite a bit deeper and richer than the Rio Sordo, with more freshness and overall structure to match. Sweet red cherry, tobacco, incense and leather flesh out as the wine fills out its frame effortlessly. Ample and generous, the 2013 Tre Stelle is an attractive Barbaresco that should provide a number years of enjoyable drinking. This is very nicely done.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price for the 750ML is $57.95
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Arriving This Month:
Cascina delle Rose Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 1.5L ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Winery note “Barbaresco Rio Sordo was born through a severe selection in a vineyard of Nebbiolo grapes. The immediate characteristics are its complexity and deepness accompanied with elegance and finesse. The colour is garnet red with slight orange flecks. The taste is intense and persistent and its intriguing perfume as slight hint of wild fruit, spicy with sensations of leather and pepper. It combines perfectly with important red meats dishes, roasts, mature cheeses.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 1.5L ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 3.0L ($249.95) $219 pre-arrival special
Winery note: “The Barbaresco Tre Stelle is the result of better exposure of this geographical appellation, 100% Nebbiolo grapes. Great character, undoubted delicacy and femininity together for a long-lived wine and amazing pleasure even from young , thanks to the weave of tannins, sleek and silky. Bright garnet red with orange highlights, live and balanced tannins, notes of roses and violets, ripe plum, licorice, tobacco and chocolate. Finally spicy with elegant ethereal notes. Remarkable persistence.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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All in the Family
The Next Rougeard is Easy to Find
The Domaine du Collier was started by Antoine Foucault, a man whose last name reveals the Loire winemaking royalty that he is. Antoine is the son of the late Charly Foucault, one of the two brothers who propelled the Clos Rougeard to international fame for expressive Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc from Saumur. That Antoine wasn’t content to wait in the wings and eventually take over the family estate says a lot about him. A driven individual, he started Collier in 1999, and his ambition has led him to make some of the best wines we’re seeing in the Loire.
The wines are definitely modeled in some ways after the wines his father and uncle make (or made—it’ll be interesting to see if the recent sale to the owners of Ch. Montrose affects the Rougeard style). Cold cellars, organic viticulture and minimal intervention are the hallmarks of Collier (sound familiar?), though Antoine uses less new wood than Rougeard.
The whites are definitely a focus here, with vineyards located in top vineyards including Brézé. The wines are powerful and drenched with minerality—wines for lovers of classic white Burgundy and dry Chenin Blanc alike. With age, they’ll open up and become richer, revealing their nuance. The reds, while not as large a percentage of the production, are noteworthy as well for their purity and intensity. Both are wines to buy to drink and hold.
Arriving Tuesday July 11th
Domaine du Collier Saumur Blanc, Loire 2012 750ML ($49.95) $36 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: From mature vines between 20-75 years old and kept at low yields, this dry and rich white is a perfect entry point to the bottlings from the domaine. Really special stuff and unbelievable for the price.
Arriving Later this Month:
Domaine du Collier Saumur Blanc, Loire 2013 750ML ($44.95) $33 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: From mature vines between 20-75 years old and kept at low yields, this dry and rich white is a perfect entry point to the bottlings from the domaine. Really special stuff and unbelievable for the price.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $44
Domaine du Collier Saumur Blanc La Charpenterie, Loire 2013 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: This is the top white wine produced by Collier and comes from the very oldest vines in the estate—over 100 years and older. This has more density and depth to it and is one of highlight dry whites of the Loire in any vintage. Although expensive, it represents great value for the quality in the bottle.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $66
Domaine du Collier Saumur Rouge La Ripaille, Loire 2013 750ML ($51.95) $39 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: A profound yet approachable take on Saumur rouge. This wine has a richness and power to it that marks it immediately as from the hands of the master with a intricacy and delicacy that makes it compelling.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $53
Domaine du Collier Saumur Rouge La Charpenterie, Loire 2013 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: This is the top red wine from the estate and has all of the qualities you’d expect from a scion of the Foucault family. Lay this down for 5-10 years (or longer, if you can keep your hands off of it) and it will reward your patience. It’s incredible to see that this sort of old-world wine is less than $100.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $69
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Produttori del Barbaresco
2008 Library Releases!
Arriving Friday, July 14th
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is arguably the most open and expressive of the 2008 Riservas. It presents a gorgeous soft core of fruit to match an open personality. Although I wouldn’t suggest opening any of the 2008 Riservas for pleasure anytime soon, readers who want to get an early look at the wines should start with the Muncagota. Sweet rose petals add nuance to the vibrant fruit on the structured finish. This is a great showing from the Muncagota. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.” WA
Produttori del Barbaresco Paje, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Paje wraps around the palate with layers of dark fruit, spices and menthol. Today, the Paje is one of the more open of the 2008 Riservas, but there is plenty going on in the glass. Sweet floral and spiced notes add lift on the finish. As good as the Paje is, it also tends to shut down quickly in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” WA
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($749.95) $649 pre-arrival special (that’s only $54.08/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Playing true to type, the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is another of the more open wines in this vintage. But that is only in relative terms. Layers of expressive red fruit, crushed flowers and spices flesh out in this radiant Barbaresco. In most vintages the Pora is one of the more accessible of the Riservas when young. The close proximity of the vineyard to the Tanaro River results in a warm microclimate that ripens the fruit earlier than elsewhere. In 2008, though, the Pora packs a serious punch. The coolness of the late harvest comes through in a finish laced with considerable tension and minerality. This is easily one of the very best Poras I have ever tasted from the Produttori. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” AG
Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($999.95) $849 pre-arrival special (that’s only $70.75/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 96 points “One of the absolute highlights in this portfolio of utterly amazing wines, the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Asili possesses marvelous depth and richness, but also little of the early approachability and sexiness of Asili. With time in the glass, the wine’s inner perfume gradually emerges, but ultimately this is a Barbaresco to bury in the deepest corner of the cellar. Once again, the Produttori have done a fabulous job with the Asili. The 2008 has nerves of steel and a huge, never-ending finish. It is by far the most imposing and structured Asili I have ever tasted from the Produttori. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” AG
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ml ($789.95) $649 pre-arrival special (that’s only $54.08/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico hits the palate with a blast of fruit intermingled with copious acidity and pure structure. Montefico shares a boundary with Ovello, and shows many of the structural elements typically associated with that side, but with more depth in its fruit, probably because of the southern exposure. The high altitude of these parcels ensures there is plenty of freshness and vibrancy. The Montefico is dazzling, but it will require considerable patience. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2048” AG
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2008 750ml ($1199.95) $949 pre-arrival special (that’s only $/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is utterly magnificent in this vintage. Usually a powerhouse, the 2008 is incredibly refined to the point it seems to literally hover on the palate. It is a wine of exquisite grace and beauty. All the elements are in place. I could describe the aromas and flavors, but that would be doing this majestic Barbaresco a huge disservice. Ultimately, the 2008 Rabaja, is all about textural finesse and pure elegance. This is another breathtaking wine from the Produttori. A king among kings. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048”
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Bernard Moreau
Chassagne Excellence in Red and White
Puligny gets all the glory in the land of the hyphenated-Montrachets, but no other village in Burgundy is as excellent for both red and white wines as Chassagne-Montrachet. Chassagne has more distinction between soil types than most and so can produce delicious, elegant reds that drink well young and also whites that are everything you want in white Burgundy. Within the village, you’d be hard pressed to find a more exciting winemaker than Bernard Moreau (one of the multitude of Moreau’s in Burgundy).
Stylistically, the Bernard Moreau wines lean toward being approachable and deliciousness while young. They’ll age, too, but these are great wines to drink while some of your surlier bottles rest. The other magical thing about Moreau is price-related. Compared to some of his peers, the wines remain bargains. Not cheap, mind you, but his 1er Cru bottlings are often $50-$80 less than comparable quality wines from Puligny.
We have the 2015’s arriving later this month. The press for the ’15 vintage is intense and deserved. These wines have power and concentration that you only get in the best years and an approachability that is uncommon for a great year. Stock up!
Arriving July 14th:
Whites:
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Bourgogne Blanc, Burgundy 2015 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Bourgogne Blanc, Burgundy 2015 750ML ($419.95) $319 pre-arrival special (that’s only $26.58/bottle!)
John Gilman 88 points “The 2015 Bourgogne Blanc from Domaine Moreau is very pretty, offering up a zesty nose of white flowers, pear, white peach, a touch of fresh almond and chalky soil nuances. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, crisp and juicy at the core, with good acids and fine length and grip on the bouncy finish. A lovely example. 2016-2023.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Chassagne-Montrachet 2015 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Chassagne-Montrachet 2015 750ML ($949.95) $679 pre-arrival special (that’s only $56.58/bottle!)
John Gilman 92 points “If there is anyone in the village that makes a more consistently beautiful bottling of Chassagne villages than Domaine Moreau, I would love to taste it! The 2015 version is another excellent example in the making, wafting from the glass in a refined and complex blend of apple, pear, a touch of orange zest, superb minerality, spring flowers, vanillin oak and the first presage of the pastry cream to come with a bit of aging. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and succulent, with excellent mid-palate depth, fine focus and backend mineral drive, bright acids and a long, crisp and classy finish. Fine juice. 2016-2030+.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Les Champs Gain, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 92+ points “The 2015 Champgains from Alex Moreau was also showing beautifully at the time of my visit, offering up a bright and classy bouquet of lemon, apple, deep soil tones, citrus zest, spring flowers and vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and rock solid at the core, with fine acids, lovely focus and grip and a long, nascently complex and youthful finish. This will need a few years to unleash its secondary layers of complexity and will be delicious at its peak. 2019-2040+.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils La Maltroie, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 93+ points “In my experience, Maltroie always shows more “wet stone” minerality than chalkiness in its soil component, and this is indeed the case with the lovely 2015 version from Domaine Moreau. The bouquet is superb and utterly classic in its profile of apple, pear, wet stones, lemon blossoms and vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and a bit more reserved in personality than most of these previous premier crus, with a rock solid core, bright acids and a very long, nascently complex and vibrant finish. This will demand a couple of years to blossom. 2018-2040+.”
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Morgeot, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 94+ points “The 2015 Morgeot from Alex Moreau is a brilliant example of the vintage! The bouquet is pure, vibrant and very classy, soaring from the glass in a blaze of lemon, pear, complex, chalky soil tones, vanillin oak and lemon blossoms in the upper register. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and utterly refined in profile, with a stunning core of pristine fruit, great soil inflection, bright, zesty acids and laser-like focus on the very, very long and very classy finish. Simply brilliant Morgeot! 2017-2045.”
Reds:
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Bourgogne Pinot Noir, Burgundy 2015 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
“Like the Bourgogne Blanc, the Bourgogne Rouge 2015 chez Moreau was bottled in mid-September of 2016 and had bounced back nicely by the time of my visit. The bouquet offers up a very pretty and black fruity blend of black cherries, sweet dark berries, woodsmoke, a touch of roasted venison and a good base of dark soil tones. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and quite accessible out of the blocks, with a sappy core,. just a touch of tannin and fine length and grip on the finish. Good juice. 2016-2025.”–John Gilman
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge Vieilles Vignes 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 90+ points “The 2015 Chassagne V.V. included twenty-five percent whole clusters this year and was raised in ten percent new oak. The wine was showing very nicely, despite only having been racked two weeks ago, as it offers up a pure and black fruity blend of black cherries, bitter chocolate, pigeon, a complex base of soil tones and a smoky topnote. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and a bit chewy today (probably more a result of the recent racking than any sign of less-polished tannins), with a sappy core, fine soil inflection, lovely focus and grip and a long, promising finish. 2019-2045+.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Two Ks / 198 Points
Arriving in September
Charles Smith K Vintners The Hidden Syrah, Wahluke Slope 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 99 points “I continue to feel that this is one of the top Syrahs coming out Washington today, and it certainly doesn’t get the notoriety it deserves. The 2014 Syrah The Hidden Northridge Vineyard is up there with the best of them and comes from a 93-acre vineyard that lies on a south-facing, gravel slope in the foothills of the Saddle Mountain range. This is one of the warmest and driest regions in the state. This deep ruby/purple tinged effort offers a sensational, deep, rich and concentrated style that closes down quickly in the glass. Black cherries, wet earth, lavender and incense characteristics dominate the bouquet, and it has a core of sweet fruit, ripe tannin and a blockbuster finish. Give bottles 2-4 years, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following decade or more.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Charles Smith K Vintners The Cattle King Syrah, Snipes Mountain 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special, only 12 bottles available!
Wine Advocate 99 points “Coming from the Upland Vineyard on Snipes Mountain, the 2014 Syrah Cattle King is a huge, powerful, unctuous beast that gives up decadent notes of black and blue fruits, freshly crushed rocks, graphite, iron and licorice. Unctuous, sexy and with gorgeous purity, it carries itself with incredible grace and elegance, without ever being over the top. It flirts with perfection and is one of the highlights of the vintage—and the region. Give it a few years and drink through 2029.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Thank you for reading!