In Today’s Newsletter:
New Arrivals:
Goodfellow, Arterberry, Togni, Fourrier, Montevertine & more!
A New Review for a Staff Favorite
#Trending
Rhone Varieties Edition
New DRC Offer:
Clock Starts Now!
2015 Louis Jadot
2017 Maximin Grunhauser
Vinopolis Exclusive Offer!
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New Arrivals
Oregon
Wine Enthusiast’s Editor’s Choice!
Ovum ‘Memorista’ Riesling, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “This new take on Ovum’s Memorista cuvée—the winery’s flagship—is its ripest Riesling. It was fermented in a thousand-liter Austrian cask, with a small percentage of botrytized fruit. It’s almost liquorous, with botanical elements that accents its lime, candied citrus and dried papaya flavors. It’s potent and packed with flavor yet impeccably balanced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $28
Marcus’ Chards are some of the greatest white wines from the Willamette Valley, period.
Goodfellow Family Cellars Durant Vineyard Chardonnay, Dundee Hills 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Winery note “From Dijon vines planted in 1993, the volcanic soils of the Durant vineyard provide remarkable Chardonnays in all vintages, with texture that is both rich and delicate, aromatic notes of smoke, citrus, almonds, candied ginger, stone fruits, fresh hay and wet stone. From the gentle east slopes of one of the oldest vineyards in the Dundee Hills.”
Staff favorite!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Richard’s Cuvee Chardonnay, Whistling Ridge Vineyard, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Winery note “From a single acre of mixed Dijon and Heirloom clones, the Richard’s Cuvée aptly demonstrates the closing gap between Willamette Valley Chardonnays and white Burgundy. The ridge top exposure and shallow sedimentary soils imbue this wine with the energy and mineral finish of the very best Chardonnays.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
From older, own-rooted vines
Arterberry Maresh Maresh Vineyard Chardonnay, Dundee Hills 2016 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “This wine comes from own-rooted Chardonnay vines (Wente selection) planted in 1983. The 2016 Chardonnay Maresh Vineyard has a wonderful open nose of green and yellow apple and pear with acacia flowers, crushed stone and honey accents. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is youthfully coiled, opening to ripe tree fruit, lemon confit, delicate white blossoms and honey with a wicked line of acidity, finishing very long and textured. Give this some time in bottle to flesh out. 100 cases produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
California
Reference-point old-school Napa
Philip Togni Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2004 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Robert Parker 95+ points “[Tasted in 2014] The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, comes from steep mountain vineyards at the top of the Napa side of Spring Mountain. Aromas of black olives, tapenade, creme de cassis, licorice and truffles emerge from this opaque ruby/purple-colored, youthful 2004. Togni’s spiritual reference point is Bordeaux more than Napa Valley, and his wines seem to represent a hypothetical melange of those two distinctive schools of wine. Still backward, but rich, full-bodied and promising, this brilliant 2004 is 5-7 years away from its adolescence; it should age for 30-40 years.”
Antonio Galloni 95 points “[Tasted in 2014 at a separate tasting] The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon has developed beautifully since I last tasted it. The early harvest produced an exotic, ripe wine built on intensity, breadth and power. Sweet tobacco, grilled herbs and cloves wrap around a core of blue/blackish fruit as this voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its considerable power. The 2004 will drink well for another 10-15 years. Today it is in a real sweet spot of total beauty.”
France – Burgundy
Captivating
Domaine Fourrier Les Cherbaudes Vieilles Vignes, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Burghound 89-92 points “An elegant, complex and relatively refined nose speaks of red and blue pinot fruit, plum and plenty of Gevrey style earth notes that are also reflected by the rich yet beautifully detailed flavors that also possess a lovely mouth feel on the firm finish that is supported by dense but fine tannins. A sophisticated 1er.”
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 90+ points “Good medium red. Raspberry, cherry, crushed stone, smoked meat, orange peel, mint and wild herbs on the highly complex, very ripe nose. Then quite closed in the mouth, less sweet and more peppery than the nose suggests. Densely packed but in need of aging. Fourrier told me he waited at least two months between the end of the malolactic fermentations and the bottling, and this wine was one of the latest to finish its malolactic fermentation.”
Domaine Michel Lafarge Clos des Chenes, Volnay Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($219.95) $199 special
Burghound 94 points “This too serves up a remarkably layered if extremely reserved nose that displays plenty of earth and spice as well as very fresh and cool aromas of red and blue pinot, floral notes and an obvious mineral influence that continues onto the tautly muscular and overtly powerful big-bodied flavors that are long, serious and focused on the presently austere finish. It’s interesting to compare the quality of the tannins between this and the Caillerets – here they are denser but less fine and as a consequence, this will need a few extra years of cellar time.”
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 93+ points “Good deep red. High-pitched aromas of black cherry, violet, licorice and crushed stone. Like liquid silk on entry, then concentrated, primary and penetrating in the mid-palate, with beautifully integrated acidity accentuating the wine’s dark, medicinal aspect. At once broad and lively on the finish, with rich dark fruit flavors building slowly and staining the palate. I might have picked this blend as a Cote de Nuits wine.”
Domaine Jacques-Frederic Mugnier Clos de la Marechale, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Antionio Galloni 92 points “The 2008 Nuits St. Georges Clos de la Maréchale offers up black cherries, sweet spices, flowers and licorice, all of which meld together beautifully in a weightless, impeccably elegant style. Floral, minty notes add complexity and nuance on the refined finish.”
Burghound 91 points “In much the same fashion as the 2011 there is an herbal tea element to the super-fresh and beautifully elegant nose that strikes me as being right at an inflection point where the aromas are just beginning to turn toward the secondary. There is a really lovely underlying tension to the dense and much more mineral-driven medium weight flavors that also possess a sophisticated texture, all wrapped in an admirably long and balanced if ever-so-slightly lean finish that belies a trace of austerity. While this is nearing its apogee I would still be inclined to allow it just a few more years of cellaring first.”
“a wine I could smell all day”
Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue Musigny Grand Cru ‘Cuvee Vieilles Vignes’, Cote de Nuits 2008 750ML ($799.95) $699 special
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2008 Musigny Vieilles Vignes is a wine I could smell all day. The explosive bouquet literally jumps from the glass, followed by deep, beautifully delineated layers of fruit. This shows terrific concentration and depth, dazzling finesse, and a nicely pointed, direct finish. It is an eternal wine.”
Burghound 96 points “This is also quite reserved at present with an elegant, airy, cool and pure nose that is kaleidoscopically complex as it offers red currant, plum, black cherry and a panoply of floral and spice notes, in particular violet and anise, before marrying seamlessly into mineral-driven and alluring big-bodied flavors that explode on the powerful and almost painfully intense finish that delivers genuinely stunning length. I love the way Musigny can so effortlessly combine a silky palate impression with serious muscle. This should be quite impressive in time though note that it will need a minimum of 18 to 25 years of cellar time.”
France – Beaujolais
“His vineyards came to him by inheritance and the Desvignes family, as the name suggests, has been making Morgon for generations. The vineyards are on the Montagne de Py in the center of Morgon, the fruit of which is of far superior quality to that produced in the outlying areas of the appellation. If there were a classification of vineyards in Morgon, Côte-de-Py would be a premier cru and Javernières a grand cru. They are located on the best exposition of the hill, with soil of decomposed schist, and Javernières is a plot within the Côte-de-Py with a little more clay.” –Louis Dressner Imports
Domaine Louis Claude Desvignes Morgon Cote du Py Javernieres, Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
Wine Advocate 95 points “The superb 2017 Morgon Côte du Py Javernières wafts from the glass with a kaleidoscopic bouquet of black cherries, wild blueberries, licorice and dried rose petals. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, with striking concentration and depth, structured around finer, more elegant tannins than the regular Côte du Py bottling. The finish is incredibly long.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine Louis Claude Desvignes Morgon Cote du Py, Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($31.95) $26 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Unfurling in the glass with notes of black cherries, mulberries, cracked black pepper and dark chocolate, the 2017 Morgon Côte du Py is a deep, brooding, medium to full-bodied wine with considerable power and firm but fine-grained extract. Concentrated and structured, it will reward patience.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
France – Rhone
2015+Jamet=Magic
Domaine Jamet Cote Rotie, Rhone 2015 750ML ($249.95) $219 special
Josh Raynolds 97 points “Lurid violet color. Assertive blackberry, licorice pastille, smoky bacon and potpourri scents are complemented by a strong mineral overlay. Seamless and broad in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated black and blue fruit liqueur, cola and floral pastille flavors and a strong jolt of exotic spices. Finishes with repeating mineral, smoke and dark fruit character, with noticeable but well-knit tannins and superb tenacity.”
Wine Advocate 95-97 points “The 2015 Cote Rotie was scheduled to be bottled the day after my visit, so I tasted the final blend from tank. Jean-Paul describes the vintage as a cross between 2009 and 2010, adding that “as it’s aged, it’s gotten less broad and longer.” The warmth of the year hasn’t detracted from the wine’s floral aromas, and the berry fruit is still fresh but concentrated. This medium to full-bodied wine is rich and tannic but also ripe and almost creamy on the mid-palate, finishing with hints of tapenade. It should begin to drink well by age 10, although it’s far from unapproachable now.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95-97 points “The 2015 Côte Rôtie was scheduled to be bottled not long after my visit. This is an undeniably great vintage at this address, even if Jean-Paul prefers his 2016s, calling 2015 “too much.” It’s worth pointing out that he thought the same about his 1991, which is a borderline perfect wine today. The 2015 sports a deep ruby/purple color to go with searing notes of pepper, smoked meats, flowers, and assorted black and blue fruits. With full-bodied richness, a concentrated, thick mid-palate, sweet, yet present tannin, and a huge finish, this is a wine to back up the truck for. A warning, however – it’s not for those looking for instant gratification.”
Italy – Tuscany
A classic vintage & an inspired blend
Luce della Vite ‘Luce’ Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($119.95) $69 special
Case-6 Luce della Vite ‘Luce’ Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($599.95) $359 special (that’s only $59.83/bottle!)
James Suckling 97 points “The beauty and polish to this are very impressive on the nose and the palate. Blackberry, blueberry and sandalwood character. Full body, ultra-fine tannins and an elegant finish. So crafted and fine.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
And our case-6 price is even lower!
The next best price is $74.94
The average price is $103!!
“2016 Pian del Ciampolo is gearing up for spectacular results”
Montevertine Pian del Ciampolo Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Tasted before its release, the 2016 Pian del Ciampolo is gearing up for spectacular results. This entry level red wine from Montevertine is fermented in cement vats and aged in oak for one year. This vintage marks a return to classic lines and a more subdued personality following the decidedly more exuberant and sun-ripened 2015 vintage. The 2015 vintage was its own wine, but 2016 brings us back to the basics with dark fruit and savory highlights followed by balsam herb and rosemary. The mouthfeel is polished and smooth.”
Antonio Galloni 90-92 points “The 2016 Pian del Ciampolo exudes class and a level of delineation that distinguishes it stylistically (but not qualitatively) from the 2015. Fresh and beautifully nuanced, the 2016 hits all the right notes. A closing burst of lavender, rose petal and mint punctuates the vibrant finish.”
“the 2015 Montevertine is shaping up to be a magnificent wine”
Montevertine Rosso di Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
Montevertine Rosso di Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 1.5L ($159.95) $128 special, only 1 magnum available!
Montevertine Rosso di Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 3L ($399.95) $299 special, only 1 three-liter bottle available!
Antonio Galloni 94-97 points “Rich, pliant and super-expressive, the 2015 Montevertine is shaping up to be a magnificent wine. There is a radiance to the 2015 that is impossible to miss. At the same time, it’s wonderfully polished, with more than enough freshness and overall structure to support many years of exceptional drinking. Red stone fruit and expressive floral notes give the wine much of its distinctive personality. The 2015 Montevertine is a real head-turner.”
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “This beautiful wine grabs your attention from the start. Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2015 Montevertine opens to a rich and beautifully saturated color. The wine’s density is more extracted and dense, and the aromas are abundantly generous and opulent as a result. Yet, all that excess is carefully contained within the elegant and nuanced approach so perfectly expressed by this historic estate. Blue flower definition with violets and lavender segue to dark fruit, spice and white pepper. The blend is 90% Sangiovese with smaller parts Canaiolo and Colorino. The wine is fermented in cement and then ages in oak for two years. Montevertine sees fruit sourced from the same vineyard that makes Pian del Ciampolo, but fruit here represents a first selection.”
Italy – Campania
(Contrade di Taurasi) Cantine Lonardo Grecomusc Burlesque, Campania 2015 750ML ($41.95) $33 special
VinopolNote: This is a reserve selection of the Grecomusc (aka Roviello) picked a touch riper and fermented and aged in barrel as well as stainless steel.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
(Contrade di Taurasi) Cantine Lonardo Aglianico Rosso Irpinia, Campania 2015 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
Case-12 (Contrade di Taurasi) Cantine Lonardo Aglianico Rosso Irpinia, Campania 2015 750ML ($299.95) $249 special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
VinopolNote: Perpetually one of the best values in Italian red wine, this Aglianico balances the natural tendencies of the grape towards weightiness and richness with the house’s grace. This has rich red and black fruits underpinned with an earthiness that keeps the wine grounded.
(Contrade di Taurasi) Cantine Lonardo Taurasi DOCG, Campania 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Italy – Venezia Giulia
Attems Cupra Ramato Pinot Grigio Venezia Giulia IGT, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2016 750ML ($21.95) $11.90 special
Jeb Dunnuck 90 points “The light ruby/pink colored 2016 Pinot Grigio Ramato (100% Pinot Grigio that sees 10 hours of skin contact) offers a terrific bouquet of crisp strawberry fruits and a touch of dried herbs. Medium-bodied, vibrant and juicy on the palate, with a supple texture and a classically dry finish, drink it over the coming year.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $18
Spain
New vintage of an in-store favorite crisp white!
Adega Algueira Brandan Godello, Ribeira Sacra 2016 750ML ($21.95) $14 special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Adega Algueira Mencia, Ribeira Sacra 2015 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(raised entirely in stainless steel tanks) Bright magenta. Lively dark berry and floral scents, along with smoky mineral and white pepper flourishes. Juicy, focused and light on its feet, offering nervy boysenberry and bitter cherry flavors that become sweeter on the back half. Smoothly plays power off delicacy and finishes long and gently tannic, leaving a subtle violet note behind.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $16
Adega Algueira Brancellao, Ribeira Sacra 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The youngest red was the 2014 Brancellao (not easy to see on the label), a varietal from 30-year-old vines on very steep slopes that was fermented with full clusters in 600-liter open barrels, foot trodden and matured in barrel for one year. They used some 225-liter chestnut barrels as well as 225- and 300-liter French oak ones. It’s a light and pale-colored, subtle and aromatic red, with an ethereal palate where the fine-grained tannins are nicely balanced by refreshing acidity. This showcases the potential and elegance of Brancellao, a grape that was ignored for a very long time that still has quite a lot to say. With time it develops a slightly animal character that I’ve seen in other wines, and it’s quite subtle and does not dominate; I wonder if it’s inherent to the variety. I need a lot more experience with Brancellao, because it’s a grape that is really starting… 3,800 bottles produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $44
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A Newly Reviewed Staff Favorite
Staff Pick Notes: “The reds of Saumur are some of the most profound in the Loire (and therefore, in France). They offer depth and complexity with a food-friendliness and savor that is a hard to beat, dollar for dollar. A wine like Thierry Germain’s Marginale is a prime example—100% Cabernet Franc from old vines on limestone vineyards and possessing both power and elegance. In the world where the Napafication of Bordeaux is common, it’s nice to find something that delivers like this, no matter the price. The fact that it’s half what a Bordeaux of its caliber would cost makes it even better. I’m drinking this with grilled foods or braised chicken, but also laying down a few bottles to enjoy over the next decade or so.” -Saul
New Grapelive Review!
Thierry Germain Domaine des Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny La Marginale, Loire 2015 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 34 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 94 points “Intensely concentrated and mineral toned, the gorgeous Thierry Germain La Marginale Saumur-Champgny 2015 coats the palate with dark fruits and a perfect amount of pure Cabernet Franc bell pepper, spice and earthiness. [The] impressive mouth feel is bigger than you’d expect with thick layers of black currant, cherry, plum and vine picked red berries. This Saumur-Champigny is a stunner, wonderfully open and warm on the full bodied palate. Germain’s story is a unique one. He relocated to the Loire from Bordeaux in the early 1990s, and soon fell under the spell and influence of his spiritual father, the late Charly Foucault of the famous Clos Rougeard. Thierry would ultimately convert his entire domaine to biodynamic viticulture following the leading lights of the region. Imported by Kermit Lynch, Thierry Germain is one of the leaders in the Loire’s organic movement and his Domaine Des Roches Neuves, with vineyards that are planted in the Saumur (Blanc) for Chenin and Saumur-Champigny (Rouge) Cabernet Franc, has gained world renowned acclaim. [He] is one of the poster child example(s) of success in biodynamic wine growing in France, like Nicolas Joly, but more especially for his reds, like this one. According to Kermit Lynch, Thierry harvests on the relatively early side to preserve fresh, vibrant fruit, even though I always find his wines ripe and perfumed. His goal is to produce Cabernet Franc with purity, finesse, and drinkability, while avoiding rusticity, vegetal or weedy character, and harsh/rough tannins. With this 2015 La Marginale, mission accomplished. This beautifully deep and dark garnet hued wine comes of a tiny parcel of 45 year old vines set on clay and Turonien Supérieur limestone. It’s only made in great vintages, is crafted from 100% de-stemmed fruit and fermented in foudre (large oak cask) with light pumpovers and then aged in a wide range of oak, most all used, from barrique to huge cask for almost two years. The layers include blackberry, red currant, black cherry and dark plum fruits, minty herb, violets, sandalwood/cedar, tobacco, a light bell pepper tone and chalky stones. Everything feels warm and round in the mouth and almost luxurious, but there is a nice purity of terroir that shines through with a touch of savory integrity. I love the rich textural presence here. This cuvee is something special. It can age for another decade, but is very compelling now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $44
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#Trending
Rhone Varieties Edition
“deep, inky, seriously black Syrah”
Betz Family Winery La Cote Rousse Syrah, Red Mountain 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “As usual, the 2015 Syrah La Cote Rousse offers a more masculine, structured, mineral-driven style. This cuvée comes all from the warmer Red Mountain AVA and is a power-packed 2015 loaded with notions of black, black fruits, scorched earth, graphite, and charred meats. It’s a big, rich, inky effort, yet like all the wines from this estate has awesome purity of fruit and is impeccably balanced.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2015 Syrah la Cote Rousse is a blockbuster Syrah from Red Mountain that’s from the Ranch at the End of The Road and Ciel du Cheval vineyards. It’s a mix of four different clones and is brought up in barrel. This deep, inky, seriously black Syrah gives up Hermitage-like notes of scorched earth, charred meats, graphite and licorice. It’s a big, concentrated effort that’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep through 2035.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $62
Charles Smith K Vintners The Deal Sundance Vineyard Syrah, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “All from the Sundance Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope, the 2015 Syrah The Deal (100% Syrah, not destemmed and aged in 30% new puncheons) offers smoking notes of red and black fruits, black olive, smoked earth and a huge meatiness. Full-bodied, silky and seamless, with a rock, mineral, backward style.”
Only 108 bottles were imported to the USA, we got over half…
Delas Freres Condrieu Clos Boucher, Rhone 2016 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 93 points “Plump in feel, with rich, tropical flavors of ripe melon and pear, glazed peach and anise. The broad finish offers a whiff of almond cream. Drink now through 2020.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $94
A consistent over-performing producer
Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2015 750ML ($44.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon, Rhone 2015 750ML ($279.95) $199 special (that’s only $33.17/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “Inky and concentrated, the 2015 Saint-Joseph Francois de Tournon is no easy-drinking Saint-Joseph. It’s smoky, herbal and ashy all at once, yet it’s buoyed by ample black cherry fruit and vibrant acidity. This medium to full-bodied Syrah has plenty of tannins, but they’re ultimately silky and most apparent on the long, licorice-tinged finish. This is approachable now but should be even better in 3 years and should drink well for at least another 10 after that.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Both Saint Joseph releases are brilliant in 2015. The 2015 Saint Joseph François De Tournon comes vines around Tournon, Mauves, Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, and Vion, and is always destemmed and aged in 30% new barrels. This full-bodied, rounded, sexy beauty shows the power and fruit of the vintage. With classic notes of black and blue fruits, violets, incense and pepper, drink this textured, expansive, terrific Saint Joseph over the coming 10-15 years.”
The average price is $50
Domaine de Ferrand Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2015 750ML ($59.95) $46 special, 26 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “Distinctive for the bracken and peppery elements across wild red cherry and berry fruits. The palate has supple ripe raspberry and cherry flavors in gently grainy tannins that hold nobly. Exceptional purity and length. Drink from 2020.”
Josh Raynolds 93-95 points “(raised in concrete tanks) Brilliant ruby. Powerful, mineral-accented aromas of ripe red berries, cherry pit, potpourri and musky rhubarb, backed by a hint of Asian spices. Sweet, concentrated and seamless in texture, offering intense raspberry, cherry and lavender pastille flavors and a touch of licorice. Impressively suave and focused; a powerful jolt of candied flowers carries through the long, palate-staining finish.”
Pedigreed wine at a paltry price
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Case-12 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2016 750ML ($519.95) $419 special (that’s only $34.92/bottle!)
Case-6 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2016 750ML ($289.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 95 points “Perfumy and stylish, with rooibos tea, blood orange and cherry aromas and flavors weaving through, infused with sandalwood, anise, bay leaf, sage and pepper notes along the way. A very fine and persistent chalky spine supports it all. Best from 2020 through 2035.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $54
A superior super Tuscan
Isole e Olena Collezione Privata (Collezione de Marchi) Syrah Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2008 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2008 Syrah Collezione Privata jumps from the glass with expressive, pungent aromatics and waves of super-expressive dark red/black stone fruits. Mint, sage, tobacco, rosemary and plums all develop in the glass, adding further dimensions of complexity. An intensely floral, savory finish laced with lavender, violets, rose petals and spices rounds things out. At six years of age, the 2008 Syrah remains fresh, vibrant and impeccable in its purity. In particular, the interplay of dense fruit and cooler, varietal Syrah notes is compelling.” AG
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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New DRC Offer
Arriving October 19th
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti La Tache Grand Cru Monopole, Cote de Nuits 2013 750ML ($4,199.95) $3,599 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2013 La Tâche Grand Cru was picked from the afternoon of October 7 and over the next two days at 18 hectoliters per hectare. It has a heavenly nose with exquisite mineral-rich red cherry, wild strawberry, blood orange and subtle woodland, damp autumn leaf and moss aromas that are extraordinarily complex. It seems to gain vigor and intensity with each swirl of the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin, a slightly suppler La Tâche compared to recent years, a wine with an athleticism. There is nothing wasted or superfluous here, a honed La Tâche that is all about tensile structure matched by perfect acidity and an incredibly complex, kaleidoscopic finish that seems so mercurial in the glass, initially offering red fruit then changing its mind and revealing darker and more tertiary notes. In a word: awesome.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $3,900
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti La Tache Grand Cru Monopole, Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML ($4,499.95) $3,899 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Burghound 98 points “An ultra-pure, cool and remarkably elegant mix of wonderfully spicy, red and blue pinot fruit, red currant and wild red berries that are openly floral in character. The overtly stony flavors are shaped by notably firm yet extremely fine tannins and while there is ample power and vibrancy, the palate feel is all silk and satin. To be sure, this is a big wine with impressive concentration but 2010 is a vintage for LT of refinement and polish if not exactly finesse. Even so, it’s still going to require some 20 to 25 years of cellar time before it reaches its full majority but when it does, it will be considered one of the all-time great vintages for this incredibly storied wine.”
Wine Spectator 98 points “There’s a unique dark, brooding side to this red. Black cherry, licorice, sandalwood, tobacco and woodsy spice notes mingle with dense tannins on the powerful frame, leading to a superb aftertaste of sweet fruit, spice and mineral.–Non-blind 2010 DRC tasting (March 2013). Best from 2018 through 2040.”
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 97 points “(just under 13% alcohol, without chaptalization): Good bright, full red. Ineffable high-pitched aromas of raspberry, pomegranate, cranberry, spices, flowers and white pepper. Wonderfully sappy and fine-grained, with outstanding inner-mouth mineral-driven perfume to the taut flavors of pungent red berries, flowers and spices. Most impressive today on the inexorably building finish, which features very suave tannins and great energy and lift. Built for a very long life in bottle and yet this great La Tache already reveals considerable charm.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $3,995
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti La Tache Grand Cru Monopole, Cote de Nuits 2009 750ML ($6,199.95) $4,799 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Burghound 98 points “This ripe effort really has not changed much since I last reviewed it from bottle in 2012 save for the fact that it is perhaps a bit less imposing than many vintages of La Tâche at the same very early stage. But overall I simply repeat my original review as it is still accurate: A discreet but incredibly complex nose features notes of spicy, pure and relatively high-toned fruit that is laced with plenty of rose petal and violet hints. There is excellent energy and freshness to the lacy and stunningly precise broad-scaled flavors that build in intensity from the densely concentrated mid-palate to the explosive and mouth coating finish that seemingly goes on without end. This is a big LT with ample muscle and very firm but not aggressive structure along with superb depth of underlying material and positively mind-blowing length. But the real genius of this wine is the Zen-like harmony and poise though note that it is very tightly wound and will need many years of cellaring before it will be completely ready. In a word, magnificent.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2009 La Tâche is a very subtle wine. It boasts incredible richness and depth, yet remains elusive. Silky, impossibly refined tannins frame the seamless, resonant finish. Nothing in particular stands out. Everything is simply in the right place.”
Wine Spectator 97 points “Noticeably oaky and darker than its siblings, evoking black cherry, licorice and spice. On the palate, there’s depth and concentration, with a menthol note that persists through the long finish. The mouthcoating tannins will require some time to integrate.–Non-blind 2009 DRC tasting (February 2012). Best from 2016 through 2042.”
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The average price is $5,980
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2012 750ML ($2,499.95) $2,199 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 97 points “The Richebourg 2012 was picked September 27-28 at just 19 hectoliters per hectare, one of the lowest yields in this vintage. This has a serious bouquet, reserved at first, more earth than air. Unusual for this cuvee, there is a sense of exoticism here, a Richebourg daring to show a bit of ankle. Blackberry pastille intermingle with wilted violets, and there is a touch of warmth that belies the precocity of the growing season. Leaving it aside for 10 minutes, there are hints of Provençal herbs, broom and even fennel. The palate is medium-bodied and the first thing that strikes you is its backbone. Well, this is Richebourg after all. But there is an arching structure to this wine that is disguised by the silkiness of its texture, plus an almost citrus freshness and brightness on the finish. This is a Richebourg that will make you giddy with pleasure. 634 cases produced.”
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “Vivid and towering in the glass, the 2012 Richebourg hits the palate with serious depth and overall intensity. Pomegranate, dark cherry, chalk, mint and wild flowers are front and center. Bright, primary and unbelievably intense, the 2012 is fascinating to taste today for educational purposes, but it will be many years before the wine is ready to give pleasure.”
Burghound 96 points “While not as strong as it was from cask there is still some residual post-bottling reduction present and while I hope that very few bottles of this will be popped any time soon in the interest of “science”, if they are, then I would strongly suggest decanting them for an hour or two first. The supporting structural elements are slightly riper than those of the Romanée St. Vivant with an abundant minerality adding lift to the broad-shouldered, powerful and impressively well-concentrated flavors that possess a sappy mouth feel. In much the same fashion the intensity of the massively long finish is borderline painful while displaying superb depth of material. In the past 5 vintages it has been neck and neck between the Riche and the Romanée St. Vivant in terms of which is the better wine but in 2012 it appears that the Riche may have the barest of edges.”
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The average price is $2,950
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2011 750ML ($2,499.95) $1,899 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “A wine of depth, power and richness, the 2011 Richebourg brings together the intensity of the Grands-Échézeaux with floral overtones and tannins that resemble those of the Romanée St.-Vivant, making for a wonderfully complete Burgundy. Savory and floral notes meld into graphite, plum and violet notes, leading to a finish graced with substantial energy and polish.”
Burghound 95 points “This is also intensely floral, in fact it may very well be the most floral wine in the range. Though it may not be quite as elegant as the Romanée St. Vivant it is arguably even more aromatically complex with a wonderfully fresh if restrained nose of hoisin, black fruit, soy and anise. There is remarkable concentration of dry extract that completely buffers the otherwise tightly wound tannic spine while pushing it to the background as the broad-shouldered flavors culminate in a balanced, long and velvety mineral-inflected finish that delivers astonishing persistence. While the Domaine’s 2011s will in general drink well earlier than is typical, the Riche may be an exception to that generalization.”
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The average price nationally is $1,994
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2009 750ML ($3,199.95) $2,799 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “I am surprised by how good the 2009 Richebourg is at this stage. Swaths of tannin frame an explosive core of fruit in a Burgundy endowed with a real sense of gravitas. The radiance and ripeness of the year has filled out the wine nicely, yet the 2009 remains a quintessentially powerful, substantial wine that will last decades. Although the 2009 is many years away from peaking, it is a real joy to catch it at this early stage.”
Burghound 97 points “The last bottle that I tried displayed a hint of reduction though there was none present with this most recent bottle with its intensely floral and notably ripe nose that features fresh notes of rose petal, plum, mocha and cassis that are sprinkled with exotic spice notes. The expansive and tautly muscular broad-shouldered flavors are, unusually, almost as fine as those of the RSV yet even slightly more complex with the same finely grained tannins. The length is similar but at present, the extra dimension of depth gives this the barest of edges. Either way, this chewy, robust and overly muscular effort is genuinely sensational and clearly built for the very long haul.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “A fleshy, charming red, sporting expressive aromas of cherry and sandalwood, with a touch of mint. On the palate, a mouthful of cherry, berry, smoke, leaf and spice notes are allied to a dense texture and serious tannins that are less refined at this stage.–Non-blind 2009 DRC tasting (February 2012). Best from 2016 through 2037.”
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2002 750ML ($4,199.95) $3,799 pre-arrival special, only 1 bottle available
Wine Spectator 95 points “The most forward of the ’02s in both barrel and bottle, this floral- and cherry-scented red verges on opulent, yet remains fresh, pure and succulent. There’s a more decadent feel to this Richebourg.–Non-blind 2002 DRC tasting (February 2005). Best from 2014 through 2032.”
Burghound 95 points “(fashioned with <70% whole clusters). I had not tried the ’02 Riche in several years so it was interesting to see how it’s progressing. The expressive though very cool nose is finally beginning to display the initial hints of maturity with the classic dried rose petal and spice nuances adding both elegance and breadth to the pretty mix of red fruit and plum scents. There is a beguiling mouth feel to the intensely mineral-driven broad-shouldered flavors that are at once powerful but sleek, all wrapped in a muscular and palate staining finish. The refined palate impression is considerably enhanced by the dense but extremely fine tannins, in fact so much so that while this is still very clearly on the way up it could actually be drunk now with pleasure. That said I would still strongly advise holding this strikingly pretty effort for another 6 to 10 years first. I should note that while I have had relatively consistent notes over the years, occasionally I land on a bottle that seems herbaceous and almost vegetal; why this variation occurs isn’t clear but nonetheless it does happen.”
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2015 Louis Jadot
Arriving in November
2015 Burgundy has officially become the new 2005. Hype for the vintage has reached a (deserved) fever pitch, and although we’ve had a lot of the wines pass through our doors, very little remains in inventory. The wines are rich and polished, explosively aromatic and destined to be long agers as well. The wines come in and immediately go out—and deservedly so: this is an epic vintage. With big price hikes on the way across Burgundy for 2016 and 2017 (due to exceptionally low yields), 2015 represents an opportunity to stock up before a new pricing paradigm takes hold across the region.
We scooped up a sweet deal on two well-priced ’15s from the famed producer Louis Jadot. Critical praise and demand are high, so take notice and act fast.
2015 Louis Jadot Arriving in November
Louis Jadot Domaine de Heritiers Beaune Theurons, Beaune Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “A taut yet fruity style, this red is appealing for the vibrant cherry, earth and spice flavors, turning more compact by the finish. Firm and balanced, this should develop well over the next decade or longer. Best from 2021 through 2033. 500 cases made.”
Burghound 90-93 points “Outstanding. Here the attractively layered nose is slightly less ripe and composed more of fruit from the red side of the fruit spectrum. The rich, supple and generously proportioned flavors possess an opulent mouth feel while also delivering equally good depth and length on the mildly rustic finale. This isn’t elegant but it is impressive.”
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The average price is $62
Louis Jadot Petite Chapelle, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Burghound 91-94 points “Sweet Spot Outstanding. A slightly toasty nose reflects notes of mostly red berries, earth and a discreet floral whiff. The very pretty and wonderfully refined middle weight flavors brim with both minerality and dry extract while the driving, balanced and focused finish exhibits excellent intensity and power. This is a relatively big Petite Chapelle yet it loses none of its typical refinement for it. In a word, terrific.”
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The average price is $110
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Maximin Grunhauser
Arriving in February 2019
Vinopolis Exclusive Offer!
Weingut Maximin Grünhaus has produced extraordinary Rieslings since Medieval times. Roman ruins underlie today’s estate, but it was the Saint Maximin Abbey that made this area famous for wine. The Abtsberg vineyard, known for its concentrated yet supple and perfectly balanced wines, once supplied the Abbott himself, while the equally long-lived Herrenberg vineyard wines satisfied the Abbey’s choirmasters. Weingut Maximin Grünhaus continues the tradition of crafting wines fit for the elite. They farm the vineyards following organic principles, keep yields low, and harvest by hand. Large Fuder casks, made from oaks on the estate, help the wines achieve their greatness. Tasting a Riesling from Weingut Maximin Grünhaus means tasting a lineage of German winemaking history. These 2017s will be limited in stock – so stock up yourself before they’re all gone…
Arriving in February 2019
Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Riesling Alte Reben, Mosel 2017 750ML ($31.95) $27 pre-arrival special
Stuart Pigott-JamesSuckling.com 93 points “A classic dry riesling from the Ruwer! Light in alcohol but deep and complex with blade-runner clarity at the very long and mineral finish. Drink or hold.”
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Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Mosel 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Mosel 2017 1.5L ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Stuart Pigott-JamesSuckling.com 96 points “Be prepared to be amazed by what the tiny Ruwer sub-region of the Mosel can do. Enormous and complex herbs and spices on a medium body that’s supported by plenty of already well integrated yeasty notes and vibrant acidity that’s driving this thoroughbred racehorse along at breakneck speed. Drink or hold.”
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Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2017 1.5L ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stuart Pigott-JamesSuckling.com 94 points “Quite funky from the wild ferment, but behind that, there is a very expressive wine with great fruit. The very racy acidity makes the finish really uplifting. Drink or hold.”
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Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Spatlese, Mosel 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Stuart Pigott-JamesSuckling.com 96 points “Great harmony and originality, as well as enormous concentration, making this a stunning Spätlese. The mineral freshness at the finish is literally breathtaking. Drink or hold.”
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Carl von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2017 750ML ($31.95) $27 pre-arrival special
Stuart Pigott-JamesSuckling.com 93 points “Ripe and juicy, but it is also very clean and crisp. You can drink this now, but it will give so much more from 2019. Right now, the herbal notes are only hinted at. A long and dry mineral finish.”
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