9/28/15
Jump Start Sale; Pre-Arrival Special; New Week – New Arrivals; Staff Picks; Crowley – Arriving This Week; Weingut Bernhard Ott; Chateauneuf du Pape; Bardi Brunello 2010; Explore Italy; Case Deals
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Jump Start Sale
Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 21 bottles available
Case-12 Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($799.95) $599 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $49.92/bottle!)
Case-6 Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($419.95) $329 special, 3 six-packs available (that’s only $54.83/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2009 Barolo Bussia is a magnificent wine that makes a bold opening statement thanks to the high caliber and intensity of its bouquet. Power and sheer determination set the wine on course smoothly over the palate and the quality of the tannin is firm and tense. The wine presents fruit characteristics of dried cherry and cassis that are not too obvious but are soon followed by delicate tobacco, Indian spice, cola, tar and licorice. It’s a picture-perfect young Barolo for 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $68
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Pre-Arrival Special
Arriving in October
Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Richebourg Grand Cru 2013 750ML ($399.95) $349 pre-arrival special
Burghound 91-94 points “An overtly floral nose combines notes of Asian tea, black cherry, plum and sandalwood. There is good volume and plenty of muscle to the large-scaled flavors that possess good minerality and vibrancy, all wrapped in an impressively long and well-balanced finale. This is not especially complex at present though the underlying material is certainly present to allow it to develop more over the course of the next decade plus.” BH
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $355
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This Week’s New Arrivals
OREGON
Goodfellow Chardonnay Richard’s Cuvee, Ribbon Ridge 2013 750ML ($37.95) $33 special
Goodfellow Family Cellars Whistling Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($37.95) $33 special
Elevee Vineyards Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Winemaker’s note “With a vibrant ruby color, this delicate wine reveals cherries, raspberries, dried tea leaf, cedar cigar box, violets, and a powdered perfume, with hints of cola and baking spice, around a mineral core. This is a medium body wine, with very lively acidity, and broad, fine, velvety tannin that builds and then fades quickly from the palate. The long finish lingers with a chorus of cherries, tea leaf, cedar box, clove, tobacco, fading violet petals, and Dundee dust.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $43
WASHINGTON
Dusted Valley Stone Tree Vineyard Petite Sirah, Wahluke Slope 2012 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “A signature variety for this winery, this bottling includes 20% Syrah. It offers appealing aromas of jammy blue fruit, dried herbs and milk chocolate. It’s high octane ,with sweet barrel notes and chewy tannins.” WE
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Domaine Leroy Vosne-Romanee Les Genevrieres 2011 750ML ($599.95) $499 special
Burghound 92 points “There is enough reduction present to notice but not so much that it completely hides the spicy character of what appears to be very ripe black pinot fruit. There is a highly seductive mouth feel and texture to the extract-rich middle weight flavors that possess amazing depth for a villages level wine, all wrapped in a highly persistent finish that really fans out like a peacock’s tail. An exquisite effort.” BH
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Leroy Les Beaux Monts, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($999.95) $799 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2011 Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts had a slight reduction on the nose that soon blows away. The fruit is darker and broodier here than Aux Brulees with mulberry, raspberry, wild hedgerow and a touch of black olive compote. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, structured tannins lending this Vosne a firm backbone. It is beautifully balanced and extremely pure, not a hair out of place toward the delineated, feminine finish. This should age beautifully – the laser-like focus absolutely riveting.” WA
Burghound 95 points “While the increments to which I refer are small they are nonetheless noticeable as this is aromatically slightly fresher, more elegant and more complex all at once. The highly expressive nose is gorgeously layered, spicy and cool with its ultra-pure dark pinot fruit, plum, cassis and wet stone scents. The medium weight flavors are impressively rich but there is a palpable sense of underlying tension and energy that make this a pleasure to taste. Moreover the borderline pungent minerality adds more lift, particularly on the overtly austere, linear, focused and hugely persistent finish. As good as the Brûlées is, and make no mistake it is terrific, this just offers another level of class and refinement.” BH
FRANCE-RHONE
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Saint-Joseph Rouge 2012 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2012 Saint Joseph, which was just bottled, showed beautifully, and I continue to see more and more terrific, world-class wines from this appellation. Exhibiting terrific blackberry, ground pepper, crushed rock and underbrush, it’s medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated and has an open, sexy style that’s already hard to resist. Drink it over the coming decade.” WA
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Bright violet color. Explosive aromas of black and blue fruits, smoky Indian spices and minerals, with a suave floral quality in the background. Fleshy and expansive on the palate, but with excellent clarity and spicy lift to its blackberry and licorice flavors. The dark fruit element recurs on the long, seamless finish, which is framed by supple tannins that fold smoothly into the wine’s lush fruit.”
FRANCE-ALSACE
Dopff & Irion Cremant d’Alsace Rose NV 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
“Crisp and textured, this offers plenty of fresh apple and red fruit flavors. It’s a light, bright wine that’s poised and stylish, in a fine apéritif style.”–Wine Enthusiast
SPAIN
Ameztoi Primus Txakoli di Getaria Hondarribi Zuri, Getariako Txakolina 2014 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Emilio Rojo, Ribeiro Blanco 2013 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $64.99
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Staff Pick
Hans Kramp Ayler Kupp Saar Riesling Kabinett Trocken 1989 750ML ($39.95) $29 special, 12 bottles available
“I love a wine with a good story, and this one is no exception. Florian Lauer is at the helm of the third-generation of Peter Lauer, the family business within the Saar. (Their wines are nothing short of wonderful, by the way, and you ought to pick up a bottle next time you’re in!) The Lauers occupy a portion of the esteemed Ayler Kupp vineyard, as did their old neighbor Hans Kramp. Florian’s father bought Mr. Kramp’s parcels upon his retirement, and along with it came access to an old cellar across the street.
“Though Mr. Kramp enjoyed a decent amount of success – Terry Thiese imported him for a moment – his wines haven’t hit our shores in two decades. The cellar across the street from the Lauers included awhole bunch of rather miscellaneous wine sitting in the cellar without an agenda. Florian felt encouraged to have the wines analyzed in a lab and discovered three distinctive wines, all from 1989. They were cleaned up, divided, labeled, and sent off. The rest is history!
“Well, not quite. This, a story 26 years in the making, doesn’t end until the cork is popped. When you do – and again, you should – you’ll find a rather unique view of aged Riesling and of, specifically, the story of Ayler Kupp, the Lauers, and of Hans Kramp himself, peering out from retirement.
“This Kabinett Trocken clocks in at 9% alcohol, though fully ripe. Aromas are unabashedly petrol and citrus, with a lime-soaked palate, slate and acid, and another dollop of petrol. Nuanced, a little wild, and fun. I’ve had four bottles of it, each a touch different due to context and pairing. What a fortunate little treat this is, and a great story to feel a little bit part of.”
-Tyler
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Arriving This Week
Crowley Entre Nous Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($31.95) $28 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Casanova di Neri ‘Rosso-Irrosso di Casanova di Neri’ Sant’Antimo 2013 750ML ($21.95) $19 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Casanova di Neri ‘Rosso-Irrosso di Casanova di Neri’ Sant’Antimo 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 pre-arrival special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2013 Rosso di Casanova di Neri (Sangiovese/Colorino) is soft, juicy and expressive, with lovely overall depth and balance. Dark red stone fruits, flowers and spices meld into the pliant, expressive finish. The Rosso di Casanova is made from the estate’s young Rosso and Brunello vines, along with fruit from the Sant’Antimo appellation.” AG
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Weingut Bernhard Ott
Bernhard Ott is the fourth generation within his family to manage their estate; over 28 hectares, he works meticulously to showcase the unique terroir of his native Wagrum, Austria. Upon assuming control over the family winery, he bought new stainless steel tanks and switch to Stelvin closures.
Ott’s approach to farming became biodynamic, as he uses compost in lieu of fertilizer and employs tinctures and homeopathic-minded solutions to issues within the vineyard. Once switching, he found that harvest was possible weeks earlier – ripeness is possible without overabundance of sugar and high alcohol levels.
In his twenty years as winemaker at Ott, Bernhard has further established his family’s iconic stature in Austria and across the wine world at large; their freshness and precision has charmed many a winedrinker, critic and civilian alike!
Weingut Ott Wines Currently Available:
Weingut Bernhard Ott ‘Am Berg’ Gruner Veltliner 2013 750ML ($24.95) $18 special, 11 bottles available
Terry Theise notes: “CORE LIST WINE. Bernhard’s entry-level GV is ludicrously good in 2013, partly because of the vintage but also because he controlled all the grape-sellers vineyards for the first time, and picked them by hand with his own team. It’s sensationally juicy and rich, not in ripeness but in substance. I found I couldn’t spit it, however manfully I tried.”
Weingut Bernhard Ott ‘Am Berg’ Gruner Veltliner 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 7 bottles available
Importer note: “Ott’s premiere line of Grüner Veltliner’s begins with “Der Ott,” made from the younger, 10-12 year old, vines of the top three Erste Lage sites – Spiegel, Stein and Rosenberg.”
Weingut Bernhard Ott Engabrunner Stein Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “The Engabrunner 2013 Grüner Veltliner Stein is Ott’s one and only Veltliner from the adjacent Kamptal. It comes from terraces on gravel and gneiss soils which are covered by a big loess layer and bewitches with very ripe aromas of apples and stone fruits highlighted by fresh and delicately mineral and herbal flavors. The palate is intense and elegant, very juicy and stimulatingly salty what makes this full-bodied ad powerful Stein a harmonious and well balanced Veltliner which is already accessible but can be drunk for the eight years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $61.99
Weingut Bernhard Ott Feuersbrunner Spiegel Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 9 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Grüner Veltliner Spiegel Erste Lage is Ott’s third vintage of this Feuersbrunn cru which carries a mix of very old and very young vines which are cultivated on south-facing terraces in 280 to more than 300 meters above sea level and well protected to the northwest by the Hengstberg gravel ridge. The soils, derived from a massive blanket of loess that is draped over the Gföhler gneiss bedrock, marine sediments, and ancient gravels of the Danube River, are calcareous and silty and, in 2013, bore a light golden colored, tropical flavored, rich, sweet and harmonious Veltliner of great intensity and elegance. It intermixes ripe peach and mango aromas with tobacco and mineral flavors and develops a great length which makes the Spiegel on a par with the Rosenberg, the former more sweet, the latter more subtle perhaps.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $61.99
Weingut Bernhard Ott Feuersbrunner Rosenberg Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage 2013 750ML ($64.95) $51.90 special, 8 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “According to Bernhard Ott, the 2013 Grüner Veltliner Rosenberg Erste Lage comes from “the very best loess cru of the Wagram.” The vineyard (in 280 and 320 meters above sea level) is located in a topographic basin that is open to the south but provides a high level of protection from the wind and has an excellent heat-conserving capacity. The vineyard is bordered to the north by a mixed forest on Tertiary gravels from a former watercourse of the Danube River whereas the calcareous, silty soils of the vineyards developed from a thick blanket of loess which can be up to 20 meters thick. Ott’s vines are more than 50 old and give a remarkable elegant and well balanced Veltliner with an intense citrus color and a lovely purity of ripe, juicy peaches and mangoes intermixed with fresh, clear mineral flavors on the nose. Gentle and remarkably elegant on the palate, the full-bodied wine matches its natural richness and fruit intensity with freshness and a nice piquancy in a very delicious way. Its elegance and balance is really beautiful.”
Terry Theise notes: “The exegesis of loess here. Wet cereal, polenta and honey and buttery scrambled eggs; it has an imposing salty force, pure power, not just the alcohol-facsimile of power; eucalyptus and ginger; a vibrating mass of ur-salt, magma; a singular vintage of this GV icon.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Chateauneuf du Pape
Chateauneuf du Pape is the name for a village in the Southern Rhone and is one of France’s oldest declared wine appellations, established in 1929. During the 14th century, the nearby village of Avignon housed seven French Popes. A summer chateau was built in what is now Chateauneuf-du-Pape in 1320 as a retreat from Avignon. This building gave the village its new name, which translates to “New House of the Pope.” Today, little remains of the papal chateau after several battles, but many other historic buildings are well-maintained.
The town surrounded by vineyards speckled with white pebbles. The soil in the region is made up of quartz stones and sandy red clay from ancient riverbeds. Its Mediterranean climate is hot and dry. The mistral wind that blows down through Rhone keeps the region dry and can threaten ripening grapes when it reaches its maximum speeds of over 55 miles per hour.
The style of red wines produce is full-bodied, spicy and typically made with a large proportion of Grenache and often with Syrah or Mourvedre. The other red varieties allowed under the AOC are: Cinsault, Muscardin, Cournoise, Picpoul Noir, Terret Noir, and Vaccarese. Usually these wines are not aged in new wood, leading to a more pure expression of the fruit. Expect to detect notes of herbs, red and black berries and even notes of roasted meat. The white wines are also full-bodied with a heady floral perfume, most often meant to be drunk young. Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Picpoul (Piquepoul), and Picardan (Araignan) make up the white grapes, though only the first four are commonly used.
Below is a selection of ten wines of the 36 Chateauneuf du Pape red and white wines we offer!
Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc
Vignobles Brunier Domaine La Roquete Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos La Roquete Blanc 2013 750ML ($47.95) $34.80 special, 9 bottles available
Case-12 Vignobles Brunier Domaine La Roquete Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos La Roquete Blanc 2013 750ML ($449.95) $376 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 94 points “Rich, racy and very pure, with a gorgeous medley of yellow apple, star fruit, fennel, white peach, honeysuckle and wet stone notes that all ripple through the bright, mouthwatering finish. Long and well-cut. This has quietly become one of the appellation’s top whites. Drink now through 2020.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chateauneuf du Pape Rouge
Le Clos du Caillou Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Quartz 2009 750ML ($109.95) $69 special, 10 bottles available
Case-12 Le Clos du Caillou Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Quartz 2009 ($899.95) $599 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $49.92/bottle!)
Robert Parker 94 points “The opaque ruby/purple-colored 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz is a blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah from one of the appellation’s more obscure lieu-dits. This stunning 2009 offers copious floral notes intermixed with crushed rock, wet stone, kirsch and black currant characteristics.”RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Charvin Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2012 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 23 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93-96 points “More backwards and tannic, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape (same blend as the 2012) was tight and structured at the time of this tasting (as was the 2011, which was much more approachable and open when I tasted it from a bottle in the U.S.), with serious pepper, herbs de Provence and assorted darker berry-styled fruit. Cutting a broad path across the palate, with full-bodied richness, bright acidity and edgy tannin, it should soften up over the next year and be reasonably accessible with short-term cellaring. A solid 12-15 year drink window sounds about right. Drink 2016-2027. Consistently producing lively, fresh and elegant efforts that never lack for structure or richness, Domain Charvin is run by the soft spoken and generous Laurent Charvin. The winemaking here is very traditional, with some stem inclusion and aging completely in tank.” WA
Vignobles Brunier Domaine La Roquete Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2010 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Silky and briary, with lots of pepper, savory and tobacco notes coursing along, while a hint of shiso leaf separates them from the blackberry and black currant confiture flavors. Lovely, finely beaded acidity offsets the tarry grip. Great range and tension. Best from 2014 through 2028. 1,200 cases imported.” JM
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve des Celestins 2009 750ML ($379.95) $319 special, 9 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95-98 points “The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Celestins might be the wine of the vintage and got a big “Wow” in the notebook. Thrillingly perfumed, with kirsch, currants, herbs de Provence, dried meats and spice-like aromas and flavors, it is an absolute knockout on the nose. This is all backed up by full-bodied richness in the mouth, and it possesses terrific mid-palate depth, layers of sweet tannin and a finish that pumps out plenty of sweet fruit. I don’t know when it will be bottled, but certainly, I was blown away by the wine.” WA
Domaine de La Janasse Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Chaupin 2010 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 17 bottles available
Robert Parker 98 points “The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin rivals the 2007 Chaupin (to date the best Chaupin I have yet tasted). Made from 100% Grenache (3/4 destemmed), it boasts a dense black/purple color as well as unbelievable notes of raspberries, black cherries, licorice, truffles, camphor, forest floor and garrigue. This wine is stunningly concentrated, incredibly noble, precise and expansive on the palate with mouth-saturating intensity, glycerin and extract. It is an amazing example of impeccably grown old vine Grenache translated into a natural yet full-throttle red.”RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Olivier Hillaire Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Petits Pieds d’Armand 2012 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 8 bottles available
Robert Parker 95-98 points “Even better, and possibly the wine of the vintage, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Petits d’Armand is about as fabulous an expression of old vine Grenache as you’re likely to find. Massive and decadent, yet lively and fresh, it offers up a sweet bouquet of berry fruits, licorice, incense, flowers, garrigue to go with full-bodied richness and depth, thrilling purity, good freshness and blockbuster length. Gorgeous all around, it should drink well on release, yet last for 15+ years. Don’t miss it! Drink 2014-2027.” RP
Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 22 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “Looking at the 2011s, both of which showed much better from bottle than barrel, the 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse (100% Grenache from sandy soils) has a Rayas-like perfume of sweet red cherries, currants, white pepper, spring flowers and underbrush. Fermented with 100% whole-cluster and aged all in neutral, larger barrels, this medium to full-bodied, dense and beautifully textured effort is superb now, yet should easily have 10-12 years of ultimate longevity. Drink now-2023.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Pierre Usseglio et Fils Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul 2010 1.5L ($249.95) $219 special, 4 magnums available
Robert Parker 97 points “The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul (cropped at 12-16 hectoliters per hectare) comes from the estate’s finest vineyards in the southern part of the appellation (Les Grandes Serres), the eastern sector (the famed La Crau) and the northern sector (Guigasse). The wine is aged primarily in stainless steel tanks with a small percent (less than 20%) kept in 600-liter demi-muids. Despite the 16.5% natural alcohol, there is not a trace of heat in this wine. It is stunningly concentrated with great intensity as well as classic blueberry, peppery, incense, camphor, fig and licorice characteristics. Rich and full-bodied with slightly more freshness than their profound 2007, the 2010 Mon Aieul should age effortlessly for two decades.” RP
Chateauneuf du Pape Rouge Arriving in October 2015
Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee 2012 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “One of my favorite wines, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvee Réservée is a classic. Beautiful on the nose, with notions of ground pepper, wild herbs, minerality and smoked plum and dark fruit, it’s medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated and has plenty of tannin that comes through on the finish. Similar in style to a lighter-weight 2010, drink this beauty anytime over the coming 12-15 years.” JD
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Fattoria dei Barbi – 2010 Brunello
Arriving in November
Fattoria dei Barbi Cinelli Colombini Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $44.50 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Fattoria dei Barbi Cinelli Colombini Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($599.95) $479 pre-arrival special (that’s only $39.93/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
James Suckling 96 points “Aromas of burnt orange peel and cherry with hints of dried bark and mahogany. Full-bodied and very tight and dense, with a beautiful fruit, tannin and acid balance. Finesse and strength. Best wine from here for ages. Needs until 2018 to show its true quality.” JS
Wine Advocate 94 points “Fattoria dei Barbi’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino starts with a tightly wound personality that begins to unravel slowly, one delicate layer at a time. As it does, you become aware of dried fruit, cigar box, crushed mineral, plum, tar and cola. The wine puts on a beautiful display. I also loved the mouthfeel of this beautiful wine: It is tonic, tight and brimming with energy. Well-integrated oak notes give the wine a spot of softness and velvety spice. This is one beautiful Sangiovese.” ML
Here’s a look at 10 of the 18 additional Brunellos we offer!
Altesino Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 16 bottles available
James Suckling 95 points “Wonderful decadent aromas of musk, orange peel and plum follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a long and rich finish. Salty and savory. Layers of gorgeous fruit. Drink or hold.” JS
Argiano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 20 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino jumps from the glass with notable energy and precision. Grilled herbs, smoke, tobacco, rose petal and mint are all beautifully delineated in the glass. Distinctly savory and mineral notes add complexity to the expressive, stone-inflected fruit in a chiseled, pulsating Brunello endowed with considerable energy. The tannins need time to soften, but Argiano’s 2010 is unquestionably a winner.” AG
Caprili Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Caprili Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($549.95) $419 special, 2 cases available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Caprili’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino shows unique aromas with undertones of forest floor and wet earth with grilled herbs and dark fruit. You also get a heavier tone of dried fig and Graham cracker that distinguishes this particular expression of Sangiovese. The wine is smooth and polished with a nice sense of inner elegance. Silky tannins give Giacomo Bartolommei’s Brunello more immediacy and a more approachable drinking window. I very much appreciated the wine’s overall elegance.” ML
Fanti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($44.95) $36 special, 32 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “A big, powerful red, with dense tannins and black cherry and blackberry flavors. Balanced in a muscular way, this remains tight and brooding despite the long, fresh finish. Shows potential. Best from 2020 through 2038. 1,600 cases imported.” WS
Fanti ‘Vallocchio’, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 30 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Full of cherry, plum and spice flavors, this is shaded by a touch of oak. Rich and smooth overall, showing ample tannins underneath and a full, expansive finish. Exhibits fine balance and expression. Best from 2018 through 2032. 0400 cases imported.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $55.99
Franco Pacenti Canalicchio Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 15 bottles available
Case-12 Franco Pacenti Canalicchio Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 ($549.95) $419 special, 1 case available
James Suckling 95 points “Beautiful aromas of dried flowers, dark berries and cedar follow through to a full body, firm tannins and a chewy finish. Tannins are refined and pretty giving tension to the wine. Drink or hold.” JS
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Violet, rose, pressed powder, perfumed berry and forest floor are some of the aromas offered by this stunning wine. The palate is still tightly wound, but delivers juicy black cherry, white pepper and licorice alongside youthfully assertive but fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2018–2030.” WE
Wine Advocate 93+ points ” Initially subdued, the 2010 Brunello di Montalcino reveals itself very slowly thanks to budding aromas of rose, cherry, licorice, tar and menthol herb. The Canalicchio vineyard sites (Sopra and Sotto) show fantastic results in this classic vintage. This wine opts for a less aggressive interpretation of the vintage with soft fruit, polished tannins and mild intensity. It is Brunello at 70% horsepower. That slower approach gives you more time to appreciate the delicate tones of brimstone and balsam herb that carefully rise from the bouquet. It would be interesting to see where this wine goes five years from now. My guess it that it will grow in intensity.” ML
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $47 special, 27 bottles available
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “La Gerla’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is absolutely delicious. Dark red cherries, plums, mint, smoke, tobacco and licorice flesh out in a wine that offers notable depth, structure and power. The 2010 is medium in body and also quite polished, yet there is a level of inner sweetness and perfume that makes the wine incredibly appealing, even today. Ideally, though, readers should give the 2010 at least a few years in the cellar. The precise, delicate finish is a thing of beauty”
James Suckling 94 points “Aromas of dried chili and salt with hints of oyster shell. Dried berry and cherry. Sweet cherry. Full body, chewy and very intense, very dried fruit character. Opens to a beautifully silky textured finish. Better in 2017.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “Dark spice and dried cherry aromas open the bouquet of the 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. This may be the best base Brunello I have tasted from La Gerla. The wine is distinguished by a heightened sense of uniformity, especially where the bouquet is concerned. You can easily identify tones of cherry, spice, leather cola and licorice that are typical of the Sangiovese grape. Wait a few minutes, and the wine begins to shows finely etched tones of grilled Mediterranean herb, ash and dried ginger. The nose is penetrating and deep with etched mineral tones at the back. This lovely wine also exhibits silky, long tannins on the smooth finish.” WA
Wine Spectator 94 points “Cherry and raspberry fruit meets wild herb, eucalyptus and underbrush aromas and flavors in this dense, muscular red. All the elements are there, but this needs time to integrate. The fresh finish is long, echoing woodsy tobacco notes. Best from 2019 through 2036. 2,500 cases made.”BS
Piancornello Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 25 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is deceptive in its mid-weight structure, but there is plenty going on in the glass. Dried rose petal, tobacco, iron, dried cherries and cinnamon open up in an insistent Brunello loaded with personality. Fruit is pushed to the back, while intensely ferrous and savory notes are quite expressive. The lifted finish adds attractive overtones in a powerful yet mid-weight Brunello that impresses for its balance and class.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
San Felice Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles available
James Suckling 96 points “Perfect aromas to this red with licorice, stone, peach pit, plum, leather and iron. Full body, fine, silky tannins that support a deep, rich fruit concentration showing black fruit, Tuscan dust and oyster shell. Needs four or five years to soften but an amazing finish.” JS
Wine Spectator 95 points “Black cherry, black currant, cedar and tobacco flavors highlight this firm, dense red. This has the fruit, structure and harmony to develop, with a juicy finish and a lingering wild herb and mineral aftertaste. Best from 2018 through 2033.” WS
Castello di Argiano Sesti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($99.95) $75 special, 33 bottles available
Case-6 Castello di Argiano Sesti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($479.95) $419 special, 1 six-pack available
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “This pure expression of Sangiovese opens with aromas of rose petal, leather, game, Mediterranean herb and wild berry. The vibrant, full-bodied palate delivers layers of crushed Morello cherry, raspberry, cinnamon and grilled herb alongside firm, polished tannins and bright acidity. It boasts character and depth. Drink 2017–2030.” WE
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Sesti’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of real class and personality. In fact, the 2010 is one of the best wines I have tasted from this estate in Sant’Angelo in Colle. Iron, sweet red cherries, wild flowers and earthiness are some of the many notes that inform a juicy, plump Brunello that already drinks well. The 2010 is quite forward and fruit-driven, but there is good underlying complexity as well as enough acidity to ensure a decade-plus of fine drinking. My only quibble is that the aromatics could be a little more focused, but that is a relatively small critique for a wine that delivers this much pleasure.” AG
James Suckling 94 points “Wonderful aromas of dried flowers and fruit. Hints of mushrooms and earth. Full body, ripe and juicy fruit and a berry, spice and cherry aftertaste. Delicious now. Why wait?” JS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $90
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Explore Italy!
Arriving Friday
Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special (that’s only $14.83/bottle!)
Case-12 Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($219.95) $159 pre-arrival special (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 89 points “Enticing aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle and citrus blossom lead the nose on this polished wine. The sleek palate delivers juicy pear, crisp apple and nectarine zest. It’s fresh and balanced, with bright acidity.” WE
This is the only listing in the USA today
Feudo di Santa Tresa Frappato Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Feudo di Santa Tresa Frappato Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2013 750ML ($99.95) $71.90 pre-arrival special (that’s only $11.98/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Case-12 Feudo di Santa Tresa Frappato Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2013 750ML ($179.95) $119 pre-arrival special (that’s only $9.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Wine Enthusiast 88 points “Made from organically-grown grapes, this savory, light-bodied wine opens with fruity aromas of crushed red berries. The bright palate doles out juicy strawberry and sour cherry, lightly accented by notes of white pepper and mineral. Chill it for 20 minutes before serving for a refreshing summer red.” WE
Feudo di Santa Tresa ‘Purato’ Nero d’Avola Terre Siciliane IGT, Sicily 2013 750ML ($14.95) $9.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Feudo di Santa Tresa ‘Purato’ Nero d’Avola Terre Siciliane IGT, Sicily 2013 750ML ($149.95) $99 pre-arrival special (that’s only $/bottle!)
“Made from organically farmed fruit, this easygoing Nero d’Avola offers juicy blackberry and sour cherry lightly framed by a white pepper accent. It’s simple but well-made, with bright acidity. Pair it with summer salads or pizza.”–Wine Enthusiast
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $11
Statti Lamezia Rosso, Calabria 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Statti Lamezia Rosso, Calabria 2013 750ML ($99.95) $71.90 pre-arrival special (that’s only $11.98/bottle!)
Case-12 Statti Lamezia Rosso, Calabria 2013 750ML ($179.95) $119 pre-arrival special (that’s only $9.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Winery note “Deep, young, brilliant colours. Typical taste and smell characteristics in a wine whose vinification process introduces the cultural versatility of such a precious terroir. Gaglioppo 40% Greco Nero 40% Nerello cappuccio 20%.”
Statti Gaglioppo Calabria IGT 2012 750ML ($21.95) $16 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Statti Gaglioppo Calabria IGT 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special (that’s only $14.83/bottle!)
Case-12 Statti Gaglioppo Calabria IGT 2012 750ML ($219.95) $159 pre-arrival special (that’s only $13.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Winery note “The respect of the original and typical fruit produces a wine of a rare elegance and pleasantness. The right witness of a land hidden into its own richness. 100% Gaglioppo.”
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A Case of Vinsanity!
Our case deals are listed on our website under “DozenDeals” or by searching for the name of the wine
We offer over 110 diverse, deeply discounted case prices, such as:
CALIFORNIA
Case-12 Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($249.95) $179 special, 7 cases available (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles available
“The solidly made 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa represents 70,000 cases of good Cabernet Sauvignon! Displaying herbaceously-tinged blackcurrant and plum fruit intermixed with a hint of licorice, this spicy, ripe, richly fruity Cabernet is not terribly complex, but it is well-made. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.”–Wine Advocate
FRANCE-RHONE
Case-12 Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2013 750ML ($699.95) $599 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $49.92/bottle!)
Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2013 750ML ($79.95) $53.50 special, 31 bottles available
Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau Blanc 2013 1.5L ($159.95) $99 special, 3 magnums available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Very pure, with fennel, white peach, yellow apple and melon rind notes that are racy and nicely detailed, followed by quinine and wet stone accents on the long, unadorned finish. Drink now through 2018.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $73/750ML bottle
FRANCE – ROUSSILLON
Case-12 Chateau Saint-Roch Cotes du Roussillon Villages ‘Chimeres’ 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 4 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Chateau Saint-Roch Cotes du Roussillon Villages ‘Chimeres’ 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “A joint venture between Jean-Marc Lafage and Eric Solomon, the 2013 Cotes du Roussillon Chimeres is just another example of the brilliance of the 2013 vintage in the Roussillon. Coming all from the schist soils of Maury and a blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Carignan that spent 8-12 months in 500-liter barrels and concrete, it possesses a deep purple color to go with savory notes of kirsch and assorted darker berry fruits, pepper, truffle and damp earth. Full-bodied, thrillingly textured and with incredible purity of fruit, this knockout effort stays lively and elegant, with fine tannin, terrific length and no hard edges. It will knock your socks off over the coming 4-6 years.” WA
Case-12 Chateau Saint-Roch ‘Kerbuccio’ Maury Sec 2013 750ML ($299.95) $219 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Chateau Saint-Roch ‘Kerbuccio’ Maury Sec 2013 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “One of the most incredible values I’ve tasted in a long, long time, the jaw-dropping good 2013 Kerbuccio Maury Sec (this is a new appellation dedicated to dry wines from Maury) is 40% Syrah, 30% Mourvedre and 30% Grenache, all from the black schist soils of Maury, that spent eight months in concrete tank prior to being bottled unfiltered. Its inky purple color is followed by fabulous aromas and flavors of creme de cassis, violets, crushed rocks and licorice. Full-bodied, seamless and incredibly textured, all while staying fresh and pure, it’s an off-the-charts Roussillon that will drink well for 5-8 years, possibly longer.” WA
FRANCE-PROVENCE
Case-12 Domaine de la Tour du Bon Bandol Rouge 2010 750ML ($359.95) $279 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $23.25/bottle!)
Domaine de la Tour du Bon Bandol Rouge 2010 750ML ($34.95) $27 special, 13 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Brooding and intense, with notes of raw meat, singed alder and dried bay leaf out front, followed by steeped black currant and plum fruit. Accents of iron, mesquite and wine-soaked rosemary line the finish. Still has some serious grip to shed. Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Carignan. Best from 2017 through 2026.” WS
SPAIN
Case-12 R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2003 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $33.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2003 750ML ($47.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “Cigar box, cedar and balsamic notes frame cherry, raisin and licorice flavors in this lean, firm red. Displays grip and focus. A traditional style. Drink now through 2023.”
Case-12 Alvaro Palacios ‘Les Terrasses’ Velles Vinyes, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($419.95) $359 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Alvaro Palacios ‘Les Terrasses’ Velles Vinyes, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($44.95) $36 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Brilliant ruby. Potent, mineral-laced raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by exotic floral and spice qualities, picking up white pepper and mocha accents with air. Seamless and sweet, offering silky red berry preserve flavors with a touch of allspice. Closes lively and precise, with sneaky tannins and a jolt of bitter cherry.” ST
ARGENTINA
Case-12 Bodega del Rio Elorza ‘Verum’ Chardonnay, Rio Negro 2012 750ML ($199.95) $99 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $8.25/bottle!)
Bodega del Rio Elorza ‘Verum’ Chardonnay, Rio Negro 2012 750ML ($19.95) $10.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer and Wine Adocate 88 points “Bright pale yellow. Slightly liqueur-like tropical fruits dominate the nose. Bright, subtle stone fruit flavors are lifted by flowers and complicated by a touch of vanillin oak. Supple, pliant, moderately concentrated chardonnay with understated stone fruit flavors and a slightly edgy finish.”ST
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $16.34
Case-12 Bodega del Rio Elorza ‘Verum’ Pinot Noir, Rio Negro 2012 750ML ($249.95) $159 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Bodega del Rio Elorza ‘Verum’ Pinot Noir, Rio Negro 2012 750ML ($24.95) $16 special, 33 bottles available
Wine Advocate 89 points “The 2012 Verum Pinot Noir Classic shows a light translucent ruby color, and a clean, fruity nose with notes of cranberry, acid raspberry and some leafy aromas. It has very polished tannins, good acidity, persistence and length. A pleasure to drink. Drink now-2016.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $19.99