In This Newsletter:
Featured New Arrival:
Selbach-Oster
New Beaujolais Arrivals
New Releases from Vouette et Sorbee
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese **, Mosel 2017 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “From the lower part of the site and made with more botrytis grapes than the regular Auslese, the 2017 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese ** is clear and elegant on the perfectly ripe, intense and spicy nose. Lush and generous on the mouth-filling palate, this is a vibrantly fresh, salty-piquant and sensual Auslese with remarkable tannin structure and expression. A great, food-friendly wine that should be cellared for 10 to 15 years, even though it already drinks extremely well. Tasted in March 2019.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Selbach-Oster Pinot Blanc Reserve, Mosel 2019 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt Wine Advocate 93+ points “Selbach’s 2019 Pinot Blanc Réserve from a west-facing plot in the Schlossberg in Zeltingen is only the second vintage but already a little masterpiece. The nose is clear, fresh and intense, and its pure, soil-driven spiciness and precision of fruit represents the cooler slate terroir more than any ambitious, Burgundy-copying winemaking. After one and a half years on the lees in three-year-old barriques, very fine sur lie aromas intertwine with the fruit after a little while to add further complexity. Silky, round and highly elegant on the palate, this is a full-bodied, rich and perfectly balanced yet seriously structured Pinot Blanc with an enamel texture, fine tannins and the crystalline and salty acidity grip of a great Mosel terroir. It is highly stimulating on the salty, mouth-watering and aromatic finish. This is a pleasant Pinot Blanc all along the line. Total production: 1,487 bottles. Do not enjoy this excellent wine too cold: 14 degrees Celsius (or 57 degrees Fahrenheit) would be ideal. Tasted in September 2021.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2019 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese is very clear and intense, provided with very fine raisin and flinty aromas. Lush and crystalline on the palate, this is a salty-piquant, juicy and razor-sharp yet delicate Auslese with great finesse and precision. A highly promising wine. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2019er Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese was made from fruit harvested at 104° Oechsle and fermented down to noble- sweet levels of residual sugar (109 g/l). It proves quite reserved and restrained at first, and needs a couple of minutes in the glass to reveal some refined and perfumed scents of whipped almond cream, white flowers, orange blossom, candied grapefruit, and anise. The wine is beautifully creamy and dense on the palate, and leaves a focused and zesty feel in the well-delineated and remarkably persistent finish. This is a beautiful Auslese in the making. 2029-2069.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $45
Selbach-Oster Estate Riesling Feinherb, Mosel 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Selbach-Oster Rieslings are not ‘Zeitgeist’-trendy wines that change according to the whims of fashion. Nor are they ‘made’ according to a recipe. Though they are deeply delicious, they do not seek to ‘seduce’ with short-term exotic aromas from specially cultured yeasts, aromatic enzymes or ice-cold fermentations. They are true characters, wines with structure, wines that display their heritage, rooted deep into the slate rock like our old vines – many of which are still on their own vitis vinifera roots.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2019 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Case-12 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2019 750ML ($359.95) $279 special (that’s only $23.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2019 Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Kabinett is pure and flinty on the pure, elegant, terroir-driven nose. Piquant and crystalline on the palate, this is a crunchy and crispy, well-concentrated and nicely phenolic Schlossberg with juicy fruit but a crystalline and refined finish. Very long and stimulatingly salty. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”
John Gilman 92 points “The 2019 Schlossberg Kabinett from Selbach-Oster is really a very pretty example of the vintage, but this is more Spätlese in terms of weight and breadth of shoulder than classical Kabinett. However, this takes away nothing from the charm here on both the nose and palate, with the bouquet delivering a lovely blend of white cherry, white peach, a touch of wild yeasts, a refined base of slate, bee pollen and a topnote of apple blossoms. On the palate the wine is medium-full, complex and nicely filigreed, with good acids, fine focus and grip and a long, complex and very nicely balanced finish. Think of this as a hybrid between Kabinett and Spätlese, but with personality to burn! 2020-2040+.”
The average price is $28
Shop our full selection of Selbach-Oster wines in stock now and arriving this month on our web store!
New Beaujolais Arrivals
France – Beaujolais
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $33
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie Les Labourons, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($39.95) $36 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 94 points “Brilliant violet. Vibrant, mineral- and spice-accented red and blue fruit and floral scents convey outstanding purity and sharp focus. Silky and penetrating on the palate, offering sappy raspberry, boysenberry, candied rose and smoky mineral flavors that deepen and turn sweeter with aeration. Closes impressively long and precise, with resonating florality and polished tannins that sneak in late.”
Importer note “Formerly known as `Clepsydre`, now re-named and carrying the name of its Lieu Dit starting with the 2017 vintage. Whereas previously the wine was a selection of the oldest fruit, Anne-Sophie has decided to take the selection one step farther and make it a selection of the best fruit from the old vine parcel. Les Labourons is the name of the lieu dit in Fleurie. In 2017, after recieving her organic certification, she wanted to rename the wine and have a new label drawn to showcase the new chapter in her winemaking. Despite the label and name change, Anne Sophie’s approach to vinification is the same as vintages past. It is 100% destemmed and aged for around 13 months in 228L neutral oak barrels.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine des Bruyeres Chenas, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 90 points “Bright violet. Lively cherry and red currant scents, along with building floral and spice flourishes. Juicy, focused and lithe on the palate, offering zesty red and blue fruit flavors that slowly deepen through the back half. Shows a refreshing bitter note on the persistent, focused finish, which is firmed by dusty, even tannins.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine des Bruyeres Julienas, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Light ruby-red. Vibrant raspberry, cherry and violet scents show excellent clarity and pick up smoky mineral and spice accents with air. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering lively bitter cherry and red berry flavors that convey an appealing bland of depth and energy. The floral note repeats strongly on a long, seamless finish that features silky tannins and a touch of mocha.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine des Bruyeres Moulin-A-Vent, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Limpid ruby. Spice-tinged cherry and black raspberry on the nose, with licorice and cola nuances emerging as the wine opens up. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering bitter cherry and dark berry flavors that show sharp definition and a hint of candied violet. Closes long and spicy, with sneaky tannins adding shape and final grip.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Moulin-a-Vent Les Trois Roches, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Bright ruby-red. Pungent red and blue fruits and candied violet on the lively, mineral- and spice-accented nose. Bright, spicy and energetic in character, offering sappy black raspberry and boysenberry flavors that show fine clarity and deepen slowly with air. Displays subtle chewiness on the gently tannic finish, which hangs on with strong, spicy tenacity and a repeating floral note.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Exhibiting aromas of raspberries, wild berries and orange rind, the 2019 Moulin-à-Vent Les Trois Roches is medium to full-bodied, velvety and perfumed, with a delicate core of fruit, lively acids and melting tannins. This is an especially elegant, harmonious rendition of Les Trois Roches, and I can’t wait to see how it develops.”
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Fleurie les Garants, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 33 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2019 Fleurie Les Garants has turned out beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of plums, raspberries and pomegranate mingled with hints of rose petals and subtle spices. Medium to full-bodied, pure and precise, it’s seamless and delicate, with sneaky concentration, striking balance and a long, penetrating finish.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Saturated garnet. Mineral- and spice-accented red and blue fruit aromas pick up a sexy floral quality with air. Concentrated yet lively in style, offering juicy raspberry, bitter cherry and boysenberry flavors that show fine clarity and back-end cut. The floral note repeats emphatically on the gently tannic finish, which lingers with strong persistence.”
“This is one serious “basic” Beaujolais for the money.” –Josh Raynolds, Vinous
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Griottes, Beaujolais 2020 750ML ($21.95) $17 special, 36 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Vinopolis Shipping Alert:
Have wine on hold waiting for cooler weather?
Now’s the time to schedule your shipment!
Reply to this email or call to schedule.
December Sales
Pierre Bouree
We’re doubling down on our Bouree sale!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Monopole:
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de la Justice Monopole Cote de Nuits 2013 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de la Justice Monopole Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 3 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de la Justice Monopole Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML Was $149, Now $125, 3 bottles in stock now
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
Premier Cru:
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Cazetiers Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 1990 750ML Was $219, Now $189, 1 bottle in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Cazetiers Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2010 750ML Was $149, Now $125, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Cazetiers Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2012 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 2 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Champeaux Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2013 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Champeaux Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2014 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 3 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Champeaux Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2015 750ML Was $149, Now $119, 2 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Epenots Pommard Premier Cru 2009 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 3 bottles in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Grand Cru:
Pierre Bouree Fils Le Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML Was $279, Now $235, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Le Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2012 750ML Was $219, Now $189, 3 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2009 750ML Was $289, Now $249, 1 bottle in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML Was $289, Now $249, 1 bottle in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML Was $289, Now $249, 1 bottle in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML Was $199, Now $179, bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML Was $219, Now $179, 3 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML Was $219, Now $199, 3 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Cordero di Montezemolo, in Barolo, was founded in 1340. We’ll let that sink in for a second. That’s a long time, by any measure, and when you have one family, in the same place, farming the same land, generation after generation, they are bound to become really good at it. That’s very true here. The Montezemolo wines have always been really wonderful, classic examples of Piedmontese wines in their respective categories. With reviews off the charts for the 2017, now’s the time to stock up, especially since our pricing beats the competition out of the park!
Arriving in Friday, December 17th:
Cordero di Montezemolo Enrico VI, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Cordero di Montezemolo Enrico VI, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($579.95) $512 pre-arrival special (that’s only $85.33/bottle!)
Case-12 Cordero di Montezemolo Enrico VI, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($1489.95) $969 pre-arrival special (that’s only $80.75/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94+ points “Made with certified organic grapes, the 2017 Barolo Enrico VI represents a selection of fruit from a two-hectare parcel in Villero (Castiglione Falletto). Enrico VI steps down with power and an especially robust footprint in this hot and dry vintage that produced thickly concentrated fruit. The power overlaps and maybe masks some of the complexity of the fruit, especially at this young age. The wine presents aromas of dark plum and spice that are slightly soft and sweet and do not repeat the extremest focus that we saw in the previous 2016 vintage. It needs a little extra time.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Barolo Enrico VI, from the Villero cru, is striking. In 2017, the Villero shows a level of translucence I don’t remember seeing in this wine for as long as I have followed the domaine. Whether that is a reflection of the year or a move towards organic farming will only become evident in future vintages. Dark cherry, spice, new leather, menthol and licorice all run through this wonderfully transparent Barolo from Cordero di Montezemolo.”
James Suckling 96 points “Aromas of ripe berries with dark mushrooms, wet earth and some tar. It’s full-bodied with creamy and chewy tannins that are polished and rather bold, but still held back. The finish is very long and caressing, if a little austere. From organically grown grapes. Needs four or five years to soften. Try in 2025.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99
That’s 22% above our by-the-case price!
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $54
Displaying the broodier side of Gamay, this Moulin-a-Vent has intense aromas of blackberry and licorice with a hint of smoke. Polished and dark, with deep fruit character of charred strawberry, pomegranate, and cherry with a granitic finish. The acid and tannin are firmly medium, and have a pervasive minerality in both the aromas and finish. The finish is structured yet supple and slightly tannic.
Chateau du Moulin-a-Vent ‘Moulin-a-Vent’ Couvent des Thorins, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 29 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 92 points “A selection from 40-year-old vines growing in granite soils with manganese, this wine fermented with some whole clusters (20 percent) and then aged for 16 months in stainless steel. That élevage preserved the generous depths of fruit in the wine, floral up front, edged with bright tannins and green-peppercorn spice in the end. A bold and zesty 2018, this will benefit from a year of bottle age.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Also rated best rosé Champagne of 2021 by Wine & Spirits!
Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Rose, Champagne 2012 750ML ($699.95) $599 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 98 points “ome wines have an inherent energy, so their flavors not only align in a recognizable pattern, but also interact in a recognizable way. Perhaps that recognition is a signal that the wine is more than just a delicious drink. The energy in Cristal Rosé converts the umami power of its black-skinned grapes into bright raspberry freshness; it transforms the earthiness of those grapes into a limestone veil, creating delicacy out of pale rock. The energy extends the flavors of the wine so that each time you return to the glass, the transparent fruit continues to deepen, from thimbleberry to strawberry and raspberry, gaining intensity while remaining transparent. It’s the kind of dynamic energy that can survive in an eight-year-old wine if the fruit is farmed in a sweet spot—in the case of Cristal Rosé, pinot noir planted in the 1960s in Aÿ, and chardonnay from Avize, all from midslope parcels, all from chalk soils. The wine’s color comes from the grape skins, macerated just long enough to infuse the juice without adding perceptible tannins. Concentrated and ripe, this is a nourishing vintage of Cristal Rosé. Its subtle power will sustain the wine for decades.”
Also rated best Nahe Riesling of 2021 by Wine & Spirits!
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 2019 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 2019 375ML ($69.95) $54.50 special, 3 half-bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 97 points “This comes from the Dönnhoffs’ most prized vineyard, a steep slope of dark slate and igneous rock. The mineral-rich site once supported a Höhle (a mine); it’s also thought to have been a site of worship in ancient times, as the name is said to be a derivation of Hermes, the Roman god. The 2019 captures the lyrical grace of great Dönnhoff riesling, building in waves of bright, succulent apple, herb and berry flavor, soaring acidity refreshing the palate even as the sweetness keeps coming on. It lasts, singing, ready to drink now or in another 30 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
There are only a handful of wines in the world considered “Immortal” in terms of its life in the bottle. The most famous of these is without a doubt Tokaji. The confluence of high acid, prodigious sugar levels, perfect terroir and masterful cellarwork is what makes these wines so long lived, with bottles that are hundreds of years old still being drinkable. Royal Tokaji Co is credited with reintroducing Tokai to the world of fine wine after the elimination of the Iron Curtain. These are benchmark wines that you should try at least once in your lifetime, and have at least one in the cellar.
Royal Tokaji ‘Betsek’ Single Vineyard Aszu 6 Puttonyos, Tokaj, Hungary 2016 500ML ($149.95) $119 special, 4 500ml-bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 95 points “Royal Tokaji’s portion of the crescent-shaped Betsek vineyard is toward the bottom of the slope, where cool air collects and the rich clay soil holds that chill. Perhaps you can taste the contrast of rich and cool in this 2016, the wine filled with creamy apricot-and-peach density of flavor, yet lifted by brisk spice, citrus and floral notes. It feels vivacious and pretty, carrying itself with an ease that belies its sweetness (it’s the richest of Royal Tokaji’s 2016 aszús, at 185 grams per liter of residual sugar).”
Royal Tokaji ‘Nyulaszo’ Aszu 6 Puttonyos, Tokaj, Hungary 2016 500ML ($149.95) $119 special, 3 500ml-bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 91 points “This feels youthful and lean, the peach and lemon flavors pinned to the wine’s broad texture by sharp acidity. While it’s succulent and almost refreshing now, this is sure to build in complexity with time in bottle.”
Elvio Cogno was instrumental in putting the Ravera cru on the map. Born and raised in Novello, the village associated with the famous vineyard, he purchased Cascina Nuova, an underperforming but historic estate, and started making classically-styled wines under his own name. The resulting wines have been stupendous ever since, prompting a rush on land in Novello (and Ravera in particular), but no wineries have surpassed the original master and his son-in-law (winemaker since 1996 Valter Fissore—who is arguably even more talented than Elvio). From their entry level “Cascina Nuova” Barolo up to his Riservas from the choicest parts of his holdings, these are wines that will appeal to every lover of Barolo.
Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($419.95) $299 special (that’s only $49.83/bottle!)
Wine & Spirits 94 points “Fruit from Valter and Nadia Fissore’s younger vines in the Ravera cru yielded a dynamic wine in 2016. It opens with scents of fresh roses and brims with flavors of juicy black cherry and plum, all of it laced with fennel pollen and orange zest. The snappy fruit tones have a pristine ripeness, propelled by brisk acidity toward a vibrant, balanced finish.”
Lopez de Heredia is one of the world’s elite wine estates. This statement isn’t a surprise to anyone who reads at all about Spanish wines, but it bears repeating. “Why?” you might ask, “would you tell us something we already know?” The answer to that question is that for all of the grace, complexity, age-worthiness, and profundity of the wines, the prices are shockingly low.
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2008 750ML ($59.95) $47.50 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 91 points “This is a lean and fragrant vintage of Viña Tondonia, the López de Heredia family’s prime Rioja Alta vineyard above a meander along the Ebro River. In 2008, the wine is gamey up front, with sour cherry flavors and a delicate, lasting richness. The wine defines Rioja’s traditional elegance.”
We stock other producers on the Top 100 Wineries list, including Bergstrom, Muga, Dow’s, G.D. Vajra, Vietti, Tenuta delle Terre Nere, Paolo Scavino, Delas Freres, and more!
Featured New Arrival:
Selbach-Oster
New Beaujolais Arrivals
December Sales:
Pierre Bouree
Cordero Enrico
An Unbeatable Deal!
Pierre Bouree
Cordero Enrico
An Unbeatable Deal!
Wine & Spirits
Top 100 Wineries & The Wines That Got Them There
Top 100 Wineries & The Wines That Got Them There
New Releases from Vouette et Sorbee
Featured New Arrival:
Selbach-Oster
Selbach-Oster
Let’s cut to the chase: Selbach-Oster makes wine every bit as good as the ‘name’ producers like Prüm or Molitor, but because they aren’t quite as famous (and because Johannes Selbach isn’t a grand self-promoter) the wines are much less expensive than their peers. They represent some of the best buying opportunities for German wine lovers in the Mosel today. We’re excited to receive another drop of these charming wines in September. The allotment is unsurprisingly dominated by Riesling (including their delicious Sekt), but also includes one of the world’s best Pinot Blanc.
Just Landed from Selbach-Oster:
Selbach-Oster Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Auslese *, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $45 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2019 Bernkastler Badstube Riesling Auslese * is deep and concentrated on the still reductive, flinty and stony nose. Piquant, racy, dense and rich on the palate, this is a laser-sharp, salty-piquant and crunchy Auslese with concentrated lemon chutney notes and lingering salinity and grip. It is stunningly precise and like an ice wine because everything is concentrated due to the perfectly clear and clean botrytis. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “The 2019er Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Auslese * comes from a parcel of old un-grafted vines in the Bernkasteler Graben situated next to the Bernkasteler Doktor and was fermented down to noble-sweet levels of residual sugar (117 g/l). It offers a superbly attractive and complex nose of grapefruit, yellow peach, honeyed pear, spices, flowers, and mint. The wine coats the palate with ample juicy and yellow honeyed fruits, almond cream, and a touch of nut paste and leaves one with a sense of herbal flavors reminiscent of great Doktor wines in the crystal clear and very long finish,. The after-taste of this truly magnificent Auslese feels sweet rather than noble-sweet. 2029-2059.”
Just Landed from Selbach-Oster:
Selbach-Oster Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Auslese *, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $45 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2019 Bernkastler Badstube Riesling Auslese * is deep and concentrated on the still reductive, flinty and stony nose. Piquant, racy, dense and rich on the palate, this is a laser-sharp, salty-piquant and crunchy Auslese with concentrated lemon chutney notes and lingering salinity and grip. It is stunningly precise and like an ice wine because everything is concentrated due to the perfectly clear and clean botrytis. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”
Mosel Fine Wines 95 points “The 2019er Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Auslese * comes from a parcel of old un-grafted vines in the Bernkasteler Graben situated next to the Bernkasteler Doktor and was fermented down to noble-sweet levels of residual sugar (117 g/l). It offers a superbly attractive and complex nose of grapefruit, yellow peach, honeyed pear, spices, flowers, and mint. The wine coats the palate with ample juicy and yellow honeyed fruits, almond cream, and a touch of nut paste and leaves one with a sense of herbal flavors reminiscent of great Doktor wines in the crystal clear and very long finish,. The after-taste of this truly magnificent Auslese feels sweet rather than noble-sweet. 2029-2059.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese **, Mosel 2017 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “From the lower part of the site and made with more botrytis grapes than the regular Auslese, the 2017 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese ** is clear and elegant on the perfectly ripe, intense and spicy nose. Lush and generous on the mouth-filling palate, this is a vibrantly fresh, salty-piquant and sensual Auslese with remarkable tannin structure and expression. A great, food-friendly wine that should be cellared for 10 to 15 years, even though it already drinks extremely well. Tasted in March 2019.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Selbach-Oster Pinot Blanc Reserve, Mosel 2019 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt Wine Advocate 93+ points “Selbach’s 2019 Pinot Blanc Réserve from a west-facing plot in the Schlossberg in Zeltingen is only the second vintage but already a little masterpiece. The nose is clear, fresh and intense, and its pure, soil-driven spiciness and precision of fruit represents the cooler slate terroir more than any ambitious, Burgundy-copying winemaking. After one and a half years on the lees in three-year-old barriques, very fine sur lie aromas intertwine with the fruit after a little while to add further complexity. Silky, round and highly elegant on the palate, this is a full-bodied, rich and perfectly balanced yet seriously structured Pinot Blanc with an enamel texture, fine tannins and the crystalline and salty acidity grip of a great Mosel terroir. It is highly stimulating on the salty, mouth-watering and aromatic finish. This is a pleasant Pinot Blanc all along the line. Total production: 1,487 bottles. Do not enjoy this excellent wine too cold: 14 degrees Celsius (or 57 degrees Fahrenheit) would be ideal. Tasted in September 2021.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2019 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese is very clear and intense, provided with very fine raisin and flinty aromas. Lush and crystalline on the palate, this is a salty-piquant, juicy and razor-sharp yet delicate Auslese with great finesse and precision. A highly promising wine. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2019er Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese was made from fruit harvested at 104° Oechsle and fermented down to noble- sweet levels of residual sugar (109 g/l). It proves quite reserved and restrained at first, and needs a couple of minutes in the glass to reveal some refined and perfumed scents of whipped almond cream, white flowers, orange blossom, candied grapefruit, and anise. The wine is beautifully creamy and dense on the palate, and leaves a focused and zesty feel in the well-delineated and remarkably persistent finish. This is a beautiful Auslese in the making. 2029-2069.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $45
Selbach-Oster Estate Riesling Feinherb, Mosel 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Selbach-Oster Rieslings are not ‘Zeitgeist’-trendy wines that change according to the whims of fashion. Nor are they ‘made’ according to a recipe. Though they are deeply delicious, they do not seek to ‘seduce’ with short-term exotic aromas from specially cultured yeasts, aromatic enzymes or ice-cold fermentations. They are true characters, wines with structure, wines that display their heritage, rooted deep into the slate rock like our old vines – many of which are still on their own vitis vinifera roots.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2019 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Case-12 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2019 750ML ($359.95) $279 special (that’s only $23.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2019 Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Kabinett is pure and flinty on the pure, elegant, terroir-driven nose. Piquant and crystalline on the palate, this is a crunchy and crispy, well-concentrated and nicely phenolic Schlossberg with juicy fruit but a crystalline and refined finish. Very long and stimulatingly salty. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”
John Gilman 92 points “The 2019 Schlossberg Kabinett from Selbach-Oster is really a very pretty example of the vintage, but this is more Spätlese in terms of weight and breadth of shoulder than classical Kabinett. However, this takes away nothing from the charm here on both the nose and palate, with the bouquet delivering a lovely blend of white cherry, white peach, a touch of wild yeasts, a refined base of slate, bee pollen and a topnote of apple blossoms. On the palate the wine is medium-full, complex and nicely filigreed, with good acids, fine focus and grip and a long, complex and very nicely balanced finish. Think of this as a hybrid between Kabinett and Spätlese, but with personality to burn! 2020-2040+.”
The average price is $28
Shop our full selection of Selbach-Oster wines in stock now and arriving this month on our web store!
New Beaujolais Arrivals
France – Beaujolais
Staff favorite!
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie l’Alchimiste, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 93 points “Glistening ruby. Vibrant, spice-accented red and blue fruits and pungent flowers on the highly perfumed nose. Sappy and seamless in the mouth, the spine of juicy acidity adding energy to plush boysenberry and raspberry preserve flavors. Shows sharp definition and repeating florality on the persistent, gently tannic finish, which leaves sweet red fruit and smoky mineral notes behind.”
Importer note “From southwest facing vineyards in Fleurie AOC. Soils are highly granitic. Dark berried fruits, tempered by mineral and black tea nuances. Seamless and very elegant.”
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie l’Alchimiste, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 93 points “Glistening ruby. Vibrant, spice-accented red and blue fruits and pungent flowers on the highly perfumed nose. Sappy and seamless in the mouth, the spine of juicy acidity adding energy to plush boysenberry and raspberry preserve flavors. Shows sharp definition and repeating florality on the persistent, gently tannic finish, which leaves sweet red fruit and smoky mineral notes behind.”
Importer note “From southwest facing vineyards in Fleurie AOC. Soils are highly granitic. Dark berried fruits, tempered by mineral and black tea nuances. Seamless and very elegant.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $33
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie Les Labourons, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($39.95) $36 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 94 points “Brilliant violet. Vibrant, mineral- and spice-accented red and blue fruit and floral scents convey outstanding purity and sharp focus. Silky and penetrating on the palate, offering sappy raspberry, boysenberry, candied rose and smoky mineral flavors that deepen and turn sweeter with aeration. Closes impressively long and precise, with resonating florality and polished tannins that sneak in late.”
Importer note “Formerly known as `Clepsydre`, now re-named and carrying the name of its Lieu Dit starting with the 2017 vintage. Whereas previously the wine was a selection of the oldest fruit, Anne-Sophie has decided to take the selection one step farther and make it a selection of the best fruit from the old vine parcel. Les Labourons is the name of the lieu dit in Fleurie. In 2017, after recieving her organic certification, she wanted to rename the wine and have a new label drawn to showcase the new chapter in her winemaking. Despite the label and name change, Anne Sophie’s approach to vinification is the same as vintages past. It is 100% destemmed and aged for around 13 months in 228L neutral oak barrels.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine des Bruyeres Chenas, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 90 points “Bright violet. Lively cherry and red currant scents, along with building floral and spice flourishes. Juicy, focused and lithe on the palate, offering zesty red and blue fruit flavors that slowly deepen through the back half. Shows a refreshing bitter note on the persistent, focused finish, which is firmed by dusty, even tannins.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine des Bruyeres Julienas, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Light ruby-red. Vibrant raspberry, cherry and violet scents show excellent clarity and pick up smoky mineral and spice accents with air. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering lively bitter cherry and red berry flavors that convey an appealing bland of depth and energy. The floral note repeats strongly on a long, seamless finish that features silky tannins and a touch of mocha.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine des Bruyeres Moulin-A-Vent, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Limpid ruby. Spice-tinged cherry and black raspberry on the nose, with licorice and cola nuances emerging as the wine opens up. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering bitter cherry and dark berry flavors that show sharp definition and a hint of candied violet. Closes long and spicy, with sneaky tannins adding shape and final grip.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Moulin-a-Vent Les Trois Roches, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Bright ruby-red. Pungent red and blue fruits and candied violet on the lively, mineral- and spice-accented nose. Bright, spicy and energetic in character, offering sappy black raspberry and boysenberry flavors that show fine clarity and deepen slowly with air. Displays subtle chewiness on the gently tannic finish, which hangs on with strong, spicy tenacity and a repeating floral note.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Exhibiting aromas of raspberries, wild berries and orange rind, the 2019 Moulin-à-Vent Les Trois Roches is medium to full-bodied, velvety and perfumed, with a delicate core of fruit, lively acids and melting tannins. This is an especially elegant, harmonious rendition of Les Trois Roches, and I can’t wait to see how it develops.”
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Fleurie les Garants, Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 33 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2019 Fleurie Les Garants has turned out beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of plums, raspberries and pomegranate mingled with hints of rose petals and subtle spices. Medium to full-bodied, pure and precise, it’s seamless and delicate, with sneaky concentration, striking balance and a long, penetrating finish.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Saturated garnet. Mineral- and spice-accented red and blue fruit aromas pick up a sexy floral quality with air. Concentrated yet lively in style, offering juicy raspberry, bitter cherry and boysenberry flavors that show fine clarity and back-end cut. The floral note repeats emphatically on the gently tannic finish, which lingers with strong persistence.”
“This is one serious “basic” Beaujolais for the money.” –Josh Raynolds, Vinous
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Griottes, Beaujolais 2020 750ML ($21.95) $17 special, 36 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
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December Sales
Pierre Bouree
We’re doubling down on our Bouree sale!
Looking for a Burgundy that walks the line between elegance and extraction? Look no further than the wines of Pierre Bourée. Just like their cult neighbor Domaine Dujac, the reds are vinified entirely with whole clusters in foudre and raised in oak for two years. New oak is only used to retire barrels too old for production, allowing for the full character of their winemaking practices to be seen.
Founded in 1864 the Domaine has always done mixed production between estate holdings and négociant purchasing from long-term contracts. Currently run by Brothers Bernard and Jean-Christophe Vallet, intervention in the vineyard is limited to pruning in the spring and organic compost for fertilizer.
We’ve put our extensive selection on an even DEEPER sale for a limited time to offer our readers the best opportunity to explore the producer.
Pierre Bouree in Stock and On Sale Now:
Village:
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Cote de Nuits 1990 750ML Was $119, Now $99, 1 bottle in stock now
Founded in 1864 the Domaine has always done mixed production between estate holdings and négociant purchasing from long-term contracts. Currently run by Brothers Bernard and Jean-Christophe Vallet, intervention in the vineyard is limited to pruning in the spring and organic compost for fertilizer.
We’ve put our extensive selection on an even DEEPER sale for a limited time to offer our readers the best opportunity to explore the producer.
Pierre Bouree in Stock and On Sale Now:
Village:
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Cote de Nuits 1990 750ML Was $119, Now $99, 1 bottle in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Monopole:
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de la Justice Monopole Cote de Nuits 2013 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de la Justice Monopole Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 3 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de la Justice Monopole Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML Was $149, Now $125, 3 bottles in stock now
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
Premier Cru:
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Cazetiers Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 1990 750ML Was $219, Now $189, 1 bottle in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Cazetiers Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2010 750ML Was $149, Now $125, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Cazetiers Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2012 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 2 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Champeaux Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2013 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Champeaux Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2014 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 3 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Les Champeaux Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2015 750ML Was $149, Now $119, 2 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Epenots Pommard Premier Cru 2009 750ML Was $119, Now $89, 3 bottles in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Grand Cru:
Pierre Bouree Fils Le Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML Was $279, Now $235, 2 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Le Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2012 750ML Was $219, Now $189, 3 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2009 750ML Was $289, Now $249, 1 bottle in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML Was $289, Now $249, 1 bottle in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML Was $289, Now $249, 1 bottle in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Pierre Bouree Fils Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML Was $199, Now $179, bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML Was $219, Now $179, 3 bottles in stock now
Pierre Bouree Fils Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML Was $219, Now $199, 3 bottles in stock now
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Cordero Enrico
An Unbeatable Deal!
An Unbeatable Deal!
Cordero di Montezemolo, in Barolo, was founded in 1340. We’ll let that sink in for a second. That’s a long time, by any measure, and when you have one family, in the same place, farming the same land, generation after generation, they are bound to become really good at it. That’s very true here. The Montezemolo wines have always been really wonderful, classic examples of Piedmontese wines in their respective categories. With reviews off the charts for the 2017, now’s the time to stock up, especially since our pricing beats the competition out of the park!
Arriving in Friday, December 17th:
Cordero di Montezemolo Enrico VI, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Cordero di Montezemolo Enrico VI, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($579.95) $512 pre-arrival special (that’s only $85.33/bottle!)
Case-12 Cordero di Montezemolo Enrico VI, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($1489.95) $969 pre-arrival special (that’s only $80.75/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94+ points “Made with certified organic grapes, the 2017 Barolo Enrico VI represents a selection of fruit from a two-hectare parcel in Villero (Castiglione Falletto). Enrico VI steps down with power and an especially robust footprint in this hot and dry vintage that produced thickly concentrated fruit. The power overlaps and maybe masks some of the complexity of the fruit, especially at this young age. The wine presents aromas of dark plum and spice that are slightly soft and sweet and do not repeat the extremest focus that we saw in the previous 2016 vintage. It needs a little extra time.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Barolo Enrico VI, from the Villero cru, is striking. In 2017, the Villero shows a level of translucence I don’t remember seeing in this wine for as long as I have followed the domaine. Whether that is a reflection of the year or a move towards organic farming will only become evident in future vintages. Dark cherry, spice, new leather, menthol and licorice all run through this wonderfully transparent Barolo from Cordero di Montezemolo.”
James Suckling 96 points “Aromas of ripe berries with dark mushrooms, wet earth and some tar. It’s full-bodied with creamy and chewy tannins that are polished and rather bold, but still held back. The finish is very long and caressing, if a little austere. From organically grown grapes. Needs four or five years to soften. Try in 2025.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99
That’s 22% above our by-the-case price!
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10 AM – 6 PM Daily
Local mandates require properly worn masks for all regardless of vaccination status.
We also offer Curbside Pickup & Shipping
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
10 AM – 6 PM Daily
Local mandates require properly worn masks for all regardless of vaccination status.
We also offer Curbside Pickup & Shipping
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
Wine & Spirits
Top 100 Wineries &
The Wines That Got Them There
Top 100 Wineries &
The Wines That Got Them There
Also named #25 Wine of the Year in 2021 by Jeb Dunnuck!
Cadence Winery Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2018 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 93 points “An estate-grown blend of roughly three-quarters cabernet sauvignon, with the balance merlot and cabernet franc, Camerata is dusty and black, with dark purple cassis fruit and a red-berry lining. It’s wildly intense, as Red Mountain can be, with a concentrated but suave tannic structure that gives it the stuff to age. —P.J.C.”
Lingua Franca has made quite the name for itself in a very short period of time and has spared no expense in pursuit of quality. The wines show this. The Estate Pinot hails from the heart of the Eola-Amity hills (and right next to famed sites like Seven Springs). Like its neighbors, the vineyard shows classic Eola-Amity structure, perfume and concentration.
Lingua Franca Estate Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 94 points “The soils at Lingua Franca are shallow, impoverished and challenging. Most of what goes into the Estate wine is from the upper blocks where topsoil is at its shallowest, the vine roots reach basalt that much more quickly. Larry Stone thinks that’s one reason for the power in this wine, derived from such small berries, with a skin-to-juice ratio that leads to uncanny concentration. This took days to open, evolving toward smoky, foresty pinot noir fruit that’s darker than almost any in Oregon. And yet there’s a vinous savor here to brush against the fruit. Built to cellar. —P.J.C.”
Cadence Winery Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2018 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 93 points “An estate-grown blend of roughly three-quarters cabernet sauvignon, with the balance merlot and cabernet franc, Camerata is dusty and black, with dark purple cassis fruit and a red-berry lining. It’s wildly intense, as Red Mountain can be, with a concentrated but suave tannic structure that gives it the stuff to age. —P.J.C.”
Lingua Franca has made quite the name for itself in a very short period of time and has spared no expense in pursuit of quality. The wines show this. The Estate Pinot hails from the heart of the Eola-Amity hills (and right next to famed sites like Seven Springs). Like its neighbors, the vineyard shows classic Eola-Amity structure, perfume and concentration.
Lingua Franca Estate Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 94 points “The soils at Lingua Franca are shallow, impoverished and challenging. Most of what goes into the Estate wine is from the upper blocks where topsoil is at its shallowest, the vine roots reach basalt that much more quickly. Larry Stone thinks that’s one reason for the power in this wine, derived from such small berries, with a skin-to-juice ratio that leads to uncanny concentration. This took days to open, evolving toward smoky, foresty pinot noir fruit that’s darker than almost any in Oregon. And yet there’s a vinous savor here to brush against the fruit. Built to cellar. —P.J.C.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $54
Displaying the broodier side of Gamay, this Moulin-a-Vent has intense aromas of blackberry and licorice with a hint of smoke. Polished and dark, with deep fruit character of charred strawberry, pomegranate, and cherry with a granitic finish. The acid and tannin are firmly medium, and have a pervasive minerality in both the aromas and finish. The finish is structured yet supple and slightly tannic.
Chateau du Moulin-a-Vent ‘Moulin-a-Vent’ Couvent des Thorins, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 29 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 92 points “A selection from 40-year-old vines growing in granite soils with manganese, this wine fermented with some whole clusters (20 percent) and then aged for 16 months in stainless steel. That élevage preserved the generous depths of fruit in the wine, floral up front, edged with bright tannins and green-peppercorn spice in the end. A bold and zesty 2018, this will benefit from a year of bottle age.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Also rated best rosé Champagne of 2021 by Wine & Spirits!
Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Rose, Champagne 2012 750ML ($699.95) $599 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 98 points “ome wines have an inherent energy, so their flavors not only align in a recognizable pattern, but also interact in a recognizable way. Perhaps that recognition is a signal that the wine is more than just a delicious drink. The energy in Cristal Rosé converts the umami power of its black-skinned grapes into bright raspberry freshness; it transforms the earthiness of those grapes into a limestone veil, creating delicacy out of pale rock. The energy extends the flavors of the wine so that each time you return to the glass, the transparent fruit continues to deepen, from thimbleberry to strawberry and raspberry, gaining intensity while remaining transparent. It’s the kind of dynamic energy that can survive in an eight-year-old wine if the fruit is farmed in a sweet spot—in the case of Cristal Rosé, pinot noir planted in the 1960s in Aÿ, and chardonnay from Avize, all from midslope parcels, all from chalk soils. The wine’s color comes from the grape skins, macerated just long enough to infuse the juice without adding perceptible tannins. Concentrated and ripe, this is a nourishing vintage of Cristal Rosé. Its subtle power will sustain the wine for decades.”
Also rated best Nahe Riesling of 2021 by Wine & Spirits!
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 2019 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Nahe 2019 375ML ($69.95) $54.50 special, 3 half-bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 97 points “This comes from the Dönnhoffs’ most prized vineyard, a steep slope of dark slate and igneous rock. The mineral-rich site once supported a Höhle (a mine); it’s also thought to have been a site of worship in ancient times, as the name is said to be a derivation of Hermes, the Roman god. The 2019 captures the lyrical grace of great Dönnhoff riesling, building in waves of bright, succulent apple, herb and berry flavor, soaring acidity refreshing the palate even as the sweetness keeps coming on. It lasts, singing, ready to drink now or in another 30 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
There are only a handful of wines in the world considered “Immortal” in terms of its life in the bottle. The most famous of these is without a doubt Tokaji. The confluence of high acid, prodigious sugar levels, perfect terroir and masterful cellarwork is what makes these wines so long lived, with bottles that are hundreds of years old still being drinkable. Royal Tokaji Co is credited with reintroducing Tokai to the world of fine wine after the elimination of the Iron Curtain. These are benchmark wines that you should try at least once in your lifetime, and have at least one in the cellar.
Royal Tokaji ‘Betsek’ Single Vineyard Aszu 6 Puttonyos, Tokaj, Hungary 2016 500ML ($149.95) $119 special, 4 500ml-bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 95 points “Royal Tokaji’s portion of the crescent-shaped Betsek vineyard is toward the bottom of the slope, where cool air collects and the rich clay soil holds that chill. Perhaps you can taste the contrast of rich and cool in this 2016, the wine filled with creamy apricot-and-peach density of flavor, yet lifted by brisk spice, citrus and floral notes. It feels vivacious and pretty, carrying itself with an ease that belies its sweetness (it’s the richest of Royal Tokaji’s 2016 aszús, at 185 grams per liter of residual sugar).”
Royal Tokaji ‘Nyulaszo’ Aszu 6 Puttonyos, Tokaj, Hungary 2016 500ML ($149.95) $119 special, 3 500ml-bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 91 points “This feels youthful and lean, the peach and lemon flavors pinned to the wine’s broad texture by sharp acidity. While it’s succulent and almost refreshing now, this is sure to build in complexity with time in bottle.”
Elvio Cogno was instrumental in putting the Ravera cru on the map. Born and raised in Novello, the village associated with the famous vineyard, he purchased Cascina Nuova, an underperforming but historic estate, and started making classically-styled wines under his own name. The resulting wines have been stupendous ever since, prompting a rush on land in Novello (and Ravera in particular), but no wineries have surpassed the original master and his son-in-law (winemaker since 1996 Valter Fissore—who is arguably even more talented than Elvio). From their entry level “Cascina Nuova” Barolo up to his Riservas from the choicest parts of his holdings, these are wines that will appeal to every lover of Barolo.
Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($419.95) $299 special (that’s only $49.83/bottle!)
Wine & Spirits 94 points “Fruit from Valter and Nadia Fissore’s younger vines in the Ravera cru yielded a dynamic wine in 2016. It opens with scents of fresh roses and brims with flavors of juicy black cherry and plum, all of it laced with fennel pollen and orange zest. The snappy fruit tones have a pristine ripeness, propelled by brisk acidity toward a vibrant, balanced finish.”
Lopez de Heredia is one of the world’s elite wine estates. This statement isn’t a surprise to anyone who reads at all about Spanish wines, but it bears repeating. “Why?” you might ask, “would you tell us something we already know?” The answer to that question is that for all of the grace, complexity, age-worthiness, and profundity of the wines, the prices are shockingly low.
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2008 750ML ($59.95) $47.50 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Wine & Spirits 91 points “This is a lean and fragrant vintage of Viña Tondonia, the López de Heredia family’s prime Rioja Alta vineyard above a meander along the Ebro River. In 2008, the wine is gamey up front, with sour cherry flavors and a delicate, lasting richness. The wine defines Rioja’s traditional elegance.”
We stock other producers on the Top 100 Wineries list, including Bergstrom, Muga, Dow’s, G.D. Vajra, Vietti, Tenuta delle Terre Nere, Paolo Scavino, Delas Freres, and more!
New Releases from Vouette et Sorbee
Arriving Friday, December 17th
Arriving Friday, December 17th
After some gentle nudging from Anselme Selosse, grape grower and recent convert to biodynamics, Bertrand Gautherot, decided to produce Champagnes from his vineyard holdings under the name Vouette et Sorbee. The cuvee Fidele is all Pinot Noir. It is primarily a blend from two vineyards grown in Kimmeridgian marl: Vouette and Biaunes. It’s mostly from one vintage, with roughly 5% reserve wine from a perpetual reserve begun in 2001. The wine has been fantastic long before it was discovered, and discovered it was. Ever since the 2012-base Fidele garnered 95 points from Antonio Galloni, this producer has had a rabid following at the shop. The Blanc d’Argile is a beautiful Chablis-esque Champagne, expressing intensive saline and mineral notes. It’s always one of the most distinctive and stunning examples of Chardonnay from Champagne.
“The champagnes of Vouette et Sorbée are uncompromisingly original, possessing deep, vinous aromas and assertive personalities, and their intensity of character makes them more suitable to contemplative drinking or to accompanying food than to casual sipping. They are clearly the products of a natural philosophy of viticulture, with all that that implies in the French wine world, and while this may put some tasters off, those wine aficionados who enjoy the wines of other natural growers in France such as Emmanuel Houillon, Marcel Lapierre or Claude Courtois will find an affinity here. These are not champagnes that will please everyone, but there is not enough quantity to go around anyway, and those of us who do appreciate Gautherot’s wines will seek them out wherever and whenever possible.” –Peter Liem, Champagne Guide
Arriving Friday, December 17th:
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne (2017) NV 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
No reviews available for the 2017-base (R17). Recent review provided for reference.
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “From a rather young vineyard (less than ten years old) planted with nothing but Chardonnay, the NV Brut Nature Blanc d’Argile—here, the “R14,” which is entirely based on the 2014 harvest—is an intensely citrus colored, white-golden shimmering beauty. Intense yet fine and floral on the nose, this oak-fermented (you don’t really get that aromatically!) Blanc de Blancs shows an iodine and almost floral (think of broom!), intense and vinous nose like a fine Chablis. The palate is round yet dry, firm and mineral until the long, tensioned, well-structured and very salty finish. This is a great mix of ripe, lush fruit, elegance, finesse and iodine flavors—so, where are the oysters?”
“The champagnes of Vouette et Sorbée are uncompromisingly original, possessing deep, vinous aromas and assertive personalities, and their intensity of character makes them more suitable to contemplative drinking or to accompanying food than to casual sipping. They are clearly the products of a natural philosophy of viticulture, with all that that implies in the French wine world, and while this may put some tasters off, those wine aficionados who enjoy the wines of other natural growers in France such as Emmanuel Houillon, Marcel Lapierre or Claude Courtois will find an affinity here. These are not champagnes that will please everyone, but there is not enough quantity to go around anyway, and those of us who do appreciate Gautherot’s wines will seek them out wherever and whenever possible.” –Peter Liem, Champagne Guide
Arriving Friday, December 17th:
Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne (2017) NV 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
No reviews available for the 2017-base (R17). Recent review provided for reference.
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “From a rather young vineyard (less than ten years old) planted with nothing but Chardonnay, the NV Brut Nature Blanc d’Argile—here, the “R14,” which is entirely based on the 2014 harvest—is an intensely citrus colored, white-golden shimmering beauty. Intense yet fine and floral on the nose, this oak-fermented (you don’t really get that aromatically!) Blanc de Blancs shows an iodine and almost floral (think of broom!), intense and vinous nose like a fine Chablis. The palate is round yet dry, firm and mineral until the long, tensioned, well-structured and very salty finish. This is a great mix of ripe, lush fruit, elegance, finesse and iodine flavors—so, where are the oysters?”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the 2017-base!
The average price is $106 for all releases
Vouette et Sorbee Fidele Extra Brut, Champagne (2018) NV 750ML ($89.95) $71.90 pre-arrival special
No reviews available for the 2018-base (R18). Recent review provided for reference.
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “The NV Brut Nature Fidèle (R14) is a Blanc de Noirs from Pinot Noir on Kimmeridgian soils and is entirely based on the 2014 vintage. Disgorged in October 2017 the oak-fermented wine shows a golden-reddish apricot color and opens with a very delicate, floral and herbal yet intense and vinous bouquet of red fruits, with warm, dry earth and spices and just a hint of oak. Bone dry (of course), fresh and elegant on the palate, this is an impressively delicate and filigreed Champagne to be enjoyed as a still wine rather than a fizz. The finish is long, clear, dry and well-structured (even with fine tannins) and reveals discreet salinity. In fact, Fidèle drinks like a Burgundy-inspired Coteaux Champenois with very fine but not effervescent bubbles, persistent lemon juice and a touch of oaky flavors. Don’t use a flute to enjoy this young, gastronomic wine; instead, use a wine glass or one of the rounder, more voluminous Champagne glasses like the Lehmann Jamesse (which stresses the finesse rather than the vinous character). Don’t serve the Fidèle too fresh, either, but if you must, wait a bit and don’t worry if the wine is suddenly 12 or even 14 degrees Celsius—it’s still delicious and even more vinous then! (To be honest, when tasted at 15 or 16 degrees Celsius, I even got some Gewürztraminer notes (lychees) on the nose…!)”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast for the 2018-base!
The average price nationally is $86 for all releases
Also Arriving Friday, December 17th:
Christian Bourmault Champagnes are cask-aged with lees stirring to offer a voluptuous body and texture. The Clos is a small vineyard enclosed in walls and hedges. This is a truly rare wine, and an incredible value when compared to other Cote des Bancs Clos bottlings, such as Krug’s Clos du Mesnil.
Christian Bourmault Clos Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special, only 18 bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Disgorged in October 2018 with five grams per liter dosage, the NV Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Clos Bourmault exhibits aromas of buttered brioche, dried citrus rind, yellow apple, English walnuts and dried white flowers. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, with ripe but racy acids, a delicate core of fruit and a youthfully frothy mousse. This derives from a 0.8-hectare parcel in Avize located above the church.” [Disgorgement date may vary from review]
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Be well & drink well.