Saturday, October 17th 2015
Beaux Freres; New Arrivals: Jean Francois Ganevat; High Scores for Bergstrom; The Dom Arrives; Great Italian Wines; Isole e Olena – Lower Prices & New Pre-Arrivals; Cadence Winery – New 2012 Releases Arriving in November; Time to Say Hello/Good Buy; A Case of Vinsanity
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Wine of the day – new arrival!
Beaux Freres “Les Cousins”
The “Les Cousins” bottling is an easier-going cuvee which aptly punctuates the clamoring we’ve seen for Beaux Freres’ wines. Always selling out and regularly fetching high scores, the winery is owned by brothers-in-law Michael Etzel and Robert Parker Jr. along with Robert Roy. “Les Cousins”, like the other esteemed Pinots from Beaux Freres, benefits from a quick decanting. “Les Cousins” requires far less cellaring than the other cuvees, and is best served with a touch of a chill.
Beaux Freres Les Cousins Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 24 bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Also Available from Beaux Freres:
Beaux Freres ‘The Beaux Freres Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 6 bottles available
From the winery “Tasting Notes: A bit darker, Medium ruby to red. Th¬e nose is of fresh red Oregon fruits & berries, a cherry aromatic is supported by more cola spice and a touch of subtle oak. This is a finesse styled Beaux Freres. Medium bodied with light-sweet tannins, very good purity and depth. Th-e texture here is beguiling as well. Drink between 2018 and 2028.”
Beaux Freres Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special, 4 bottles available
From the winery: “A glowing medium ruby color. Redolent of Juicy strawberry and bright cherry fruit on the nose. Aromatic intrigue is heightened by the slight damp earth and warm spice components. ¬e fruit follows through on the velvety textured palate. A great balance of fruit purity and a hedonistic lushness. Aging potential 5-10 years. Our Willamette Valley cuvée features fruit grown on select vineyard sites in the Northern Willamette Valley. The wines benefit from the same winemaking process as our estate wines. The sites are farmed sustainably and managed to very low yields. We age the wine in the same French oak barrels used in our estate bottling, however the percentage of new oak is intentionally lower.”
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Get Your Ganevat
Across nearly 45 different cuvees, Jean-Francois Ganevat has earned renown across the wine world for his winemaking. Farming biodynamically, Ganevat utilizes very small amounts of sulfur and ages many of his white wines on the lees for terms ranging from two to twelve years. The wines are marked with incredibly buoyancy, precision, and elegance; they boast a real “Burgundian” sensibility, though these wines are most certainly “le vrai Jura.”
New Arrivals from Jean Francois Ganevat
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Chardonnay ‘Grusse en Billat’ 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles available
Importer note: Vineyard planted in 1960 and composed of schist and marl.
Jean Francois Ganevat Chardonnay Cotes du Jura Les Chamois du Paradis 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles available
Joel Payne–Vinous 92 points “Subtle bouquet of orange rind and lime lifted by floral nuances. At once concentrated and elegant, with tangerine and lemon peel flavors dominating. Chalky acidity and a touch of ginger appear on the saline finish.” JP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Chardonnay Cuvee de Garde 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 3 bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Chardonnay ‘Cuvee Florine’2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 5 bottles available
Importer note: Vineyard planted in 1996 and composed of limestone.
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Chardonnay Les Grands Teppes Vieilles Vignes 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 7 bottles available
Joel Payne–Vinous 94 points “Restrained but quite pure on the nose, with aromas of apricot blossom, white peach and vanillin oak supported by an undercurrent of minerality that becomes more pronounced with aeration. On the palate, this invigorating Chardonnay is rich at only 13% alcohol but also impeccably balanced, with lemon and mandarin orange flavors dominating. The vines in the Grands Teppes were planted on marl and gravel in 1919 and 1902, providing this 2012 with its structured, pleasantly austere finish. A great effort!” JP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Jean Francois Ganevat Wines Arriving Next Week
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Chardonnay Les Chalasses Vieilles Vignes 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special, 6 bottles available
Importer note: Vineyard planted in 1902 and composed of gray marl.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Savagnin Les Vignes de Mon Pere 2004 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special, 6 bottles available
Joel Payne–Vinous 95 points “Seductive aromas of quince, hyacinth, oyster shell and sea breeze. Expansive as well as viscous, this 2004 Savagnin walks a tight line between Chablis and Sherry. Although it spent 11 years in small casks with no sulfur, it is still extremely youthful, revealing subtle tropical fruits and white flowers on a saline background. I followed Les Vignes de Mon Père (the vines of my father) over three days and was surprised that it remained so fresh.” JP
Jean Francois Ganevat Côtes du Jura Savagnin “Les Terrasses de Chalandigna” 2010 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special, 4 bottles available
Importer note: Vineyard planted in 1977 and composed of clay and marl. Made in an oxidative style, wine remains sous voile for 48 months in demi-muid
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura ‘Cuvee Oregane’ 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special, 6 bottles available
Importer note: 50% Chardonnay, 50% Savagnin. Vineyard planted in 1973 and 1977 and composed of blue marl and white marl.
Jean Francois Ganevat Vieux Macvin du Jura NV (2005) 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Importer note: Blend of 2/3 unfermented must of Savagnin and 1/3 Marc of Savagnin. Aged in barrel for 8 years before bottling.
Jean Francois Ganevat Cotes du Jura Vin Jaune 2005 375ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special, 6 half-bottles available
Importer note: Vineyard planted in 1948 and composed of blue marl.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99
Back vintages are available – visit our website to view them!
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New Scores for Bergstrom!
John and Karen Bergstrom founded the winery with their Swedish agricultural heritage in mind. After a career as a surgeon, John moved the family from Portland to Dundee. Their initial effort entailed planting across thirteen acres of south-exposed slopes within the Willamette Valley.
Their son Josh assisted the family’s operation and worked various wineries in the late 1990s to gain experience before undertaking the CFPPA certificate program in Beaune. They produced their first vintage with fruit from Archery Summit before eventually opening the winery. Josh strives for the lowest Brix (sugar level) with the longest hang time. The grapes undergo a long cold soak and ferments with no native yeast (to help keep Brett away). The amount of new oak varies by cuvee from 0 – 100%. The wines are deeply concentrated with suave aromatics and grippy tannins.
Bergstrom Wines Le Pre Du Col Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2013 2013 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Spectator 95 points “Supple, seductive and distrinctive, with pure blueberry fruit, shaded with white pepper, pear skin and floral character that dances into a long and deftly balanced finish. Has presence and intensity without extra weight. Drink now through 2023.”HS
Bergstrom Wines ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Refreshing, polished and juicy, with orange peel-accented black cherry and floral flavors, showing hints of pepper and clove. The finish exhibits pizzazz and grace. Drink now through 2023.”HS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:
We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason.
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
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Arriving Tuesday – 2006 Dom Pérignon
Swedish Champagne expert and author, Richard Juhlin, is widely considered one of the Europe’s leading authorities on the region. He was awarded the Chevalier del Arc by the French government for his work in promoting Champagne internationally and has held the Champagne region chair for the Decanter wine awards. He is one of the first to professionally review the 2006 Dom Pérignon and is one of the few people in the world to have professionally tasted every vintage of this legendary wine. He awards two scores for the wines: the first its taste now and the second its potential at maturity.
Dom Pérignon Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Richard Juhlin 94(97) points “It’s not often you fall backwards when a wine is first launched on the market. This time both me and my friends, who got to try this jewel at my champagne bar, fell in love instantly. It is all here so beautifully orchestrated in this incredibly well-balanced and flowing rich symphony. It is so voluptuously charming and welcoming immediately, but at the same time so complex that the interest in what you will discover in the next gulp never ceases. Here are all the pillars that I perceive a Dom Pérignon should have. A gigantic large and intense aroma, a silk caressing structure and a dazzling grand finale. Notes from the sea, roasted nuts, coffee, brioche, tropical green fruits, stone fruit, green apples, sweet orange citrus, gunpowder, nougat, mushroom cream and black truffle are all there like a perfectly tailored tuxedo. Love at first sight.”
We are pleased to offer the 2006 release of Dom Perignon at the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Great Italian Wines
Arriving Next Week
Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $41.90 pre-arrival special
Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2011 1.5L ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($499.95) $469 pre-arrival special (that’s only $39.08/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 94 points “From the 6.25-hectare Rancia vineyard, the 2011 Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia shows a more elaborate and stylized personality with ripe fruit tones, bursting cherry, perfumed violets and rose petal. Those floral notes add a feminine touch to what is in fact a wine of power and determination. It shows a beautiful evolution in the glass as well, with dusty mineral notes that add to the overall elegance of the dry, polished finish. This is one of the best Riservas of 2011.” ML
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “A wine of incredible density, the 2011 Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia is virtually impenetrable, but dazzling just the same. Rose petal, mint, sage, rosemary, leather and smoke hit the palate in a voluptuous, racy Rancia. The 2011 should drink well earlier than many other recent vintages, but it should also age nicely. The fine, silky tannins are a bit uncharacteristic for a young Rancia. Over the last few years, the 2011 has really started to come together. It will be interesting to see where things go from here.” AG
Felsina Berardenga Maestro Raro Toscana IGT 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Fèlsina’s 2012 Maestro Raro (Cabernet Sauvignon) is a real head-turner, although it is also an infant and in need of considerable cellaring. A bold, dark wine, the 2012 is vivid in the glass, with remarkable detail for such a big wine and exceptional overall balance. The 2012 is sweeping and dramatic in style, with plenty of that year’s exotic fruit and opulence, along with plenty of sweet tobacco, rosemary, sage and cedar notes that add nuance. The 2012 needs time to fully meld together, but it is fabulous, even today.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Giovanni Corino Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($44.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Giovanni Corino Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($479.95) $359 pre-arrival special (that’s only $29.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “A fresh, elegant red, showing cherry, floral, loam and underbrush flavors. This is firm, yet ripe and long, with gripping tannins on the finish. Best from 2017 through 2030.” WS
Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $47 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($599.95) $479 pre-arrival special (that’s only $39.92/bottle!)
Case-6 Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($299.95) $264 pre-arrival special (that’s only $44/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 94 points “Focused, juicy and long, this red is packed with cherry, floral, tobacco and underbrush flavors. Still a bit tight now, but stays long. The sweet fruit returns on the finish. Best from 2018 through 2030.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $49.99
The average price is $57
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $46 pre-arrival special
Case-6 La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($319.95) $249 pre-arrival special (that’s only $41.50/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
James Suckling 96 points “Aromas of wet earth, meat and dried fruits. Some nuts and spices. Complex. Full body, with super fine tannins and fabulous intensity and richness. Dried cherry and candied citrus fruit. Fabulous finish. You want to drink this now. But shows superb finesse and intensity. Why wait?(1/15)” JS
Wine Spectator 95 points “Saturated with cherry, raspberry, spice and tobacco aromas and flavors, this strikes a balanced between the supple texture, succulent acidity and refined yet gripping tannins. Really sings on the lingering finish. Best from 2019 through 2035.” WS
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Isole e Olena
Chianti at its Finest
In the 1950’s, two neighboring estates along the hills of Chianti – “Isole” and “Olena” – were purchased by Paolo De Marchi and his family. As the lands were combined, so too was the name, and thus Isole e Olena came to be.
The terroirs of Isole e Olena are unmistakable; De Marchi believes his terroirs to be his true reason for success. Across his ancient soils, he is convinced that work within the vineyard and well-tended crop are the secret to making outstanding wine. De Marchi pioneered the growth of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah in the region, earning a surprisingly amount of acclaim in doing so. Even so, he is careful when and where to use his “international” grape varieties, vying to always represent his terroir and its traditions deservedly well. In turn, “classically-Chianti” bottlings remain under the Isole e Olena name, while the international stylings fall under the “Collezione De Marchi” moniker.
Isole e Olena is a postcard estate for Chianti, and De Marchi seems as proud of his homeland as the world is of his creations – his wines are exported to no fewer than 26 countries and have achieved no shortage of acclaim. We’re thrilled to stock some of Isole e Olena’s finest cuvees with some fine scores & prices, all listed below.
Special Feature: 2011 Cepparello
We’ve lowered the prices on a number of Isole e Olena cuvees. Take an extra look at the 2011 Cepparello: it’s an excellent candidate for the cellar or decanter, and shows beautifully expressive aromatics of dried orange peels, exotic spices and red fruits.
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT 2011 750ML ($89.95) Was $66, Now $59, 36+ bottles available
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT 2011 1.5L ($159.95) $133 special, 10 magnums available
Case-6 Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT 2011 750ML ($499.95) Was $376, Now $319, 5 six-packs available (that’s only $53.17/bottle!)
James Suckling 95 points “Aromas of currant, bark and orange peel. Nutmeg powder. Full body and chewy tannins. Savory, with balsamic and nuts. I love the juicy, decadent character to this. Drink or hold.” JS
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Isole e Olena’s 2011 Cepparello is remarkably silky, polished and refined, especially considering the challenges of the vintage. Dark red stone fruits, wild flowers, menthol and sweet spices all meld together gracefully in the glass. Voluptuous and racy but also an impeccably balanced wine with phenomenal length and a super-expressive finish. The 2011 will offer a wide window of drinking pleasure pretty much upon release. Drink: 2017-2026.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $71
Other Isole e Olena Wines In-Store Now:
Isole e Olena Syrah Collezione de Marchi Toscana IGT 2007 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $49, 19 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2007 Syrah Collezione De Marchi bursts from the glass with masses of dark red fruit, smoke and spices, all of which flow effortlessly from this exuberant, caressing wine. This is a first-class effort from start to finish. Expressive aromatics are woven throughout, adding to an impression of total finesse and harmony. Mint, flowers and raspberries linger on the caressing finish. This is a dazzling effort.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Isole e Olena Collezione de Marchi (Collezione Privata) Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana IGT 2008 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 25 bottles available
Case-6 Isole e Olena Collezione de Marchi (Collezione Privata) Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana IGT 2008 750ML ($479.95) $419 special, 2 six-packs available (that’s only $69.83/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “At the beginning of what promises to be a long drinking window, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione De Marchi is stunning. Savory herbs, tar, licorice, cassis, graphite and melted road tar seduce the intellectual and hedonistic senses in a wine that has everything. A vibrant, powerful, structured wine underpinned by intense saline notes, the 2008 possesses remarkable finesse and fabulous overall balance. This is another fabulous wine from Paolo De Marchi.”
Isole e Olena Collezione de Marchi Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana IGT 2010 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $61.90, 24 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione De Marchi is magnificent. Violets, smoke, plums and cassis jump from the glass in a stunning wine. All I can say is the 2010 is incredible. Just bottled one month ago, the 2010 shows no hard edges, incredibly expressive aromatics and beautifully delineated fruit. The 2010 isn’t a huge wine, but rather one built on exceptional finesse and elegance. It is one of the great wines of what has turned out to be a great Tuscan vintage.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $65.52
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT 2005 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 5 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2005 Cepparello is striking. It possesses stunning depth and a darker profile of fruit than is typical. The 2005 was quite compact when first released, but what a difference a few years in bottle make. Today the 2005 has begun to blossom into a big, dramatic wine for the year. As was the case throughout most of Chianti Classico, 2005 was shaping up to be a great year until the rains arrived just before harvest. This is a fabulous effort on its own, but especially notable for the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.”
Isole e Olena Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2003 375ML ($59.95) $39 special, 33 half-bottles available
“High-toned nose, rich in dried fruit, marmalade and salted nut aromas. Utterly delicious; intense and crammed with flavour – raisins, figs, orange peel – but relatively light on its feet with cracking freshness.”–Decanter Magazine
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Isole e Olena Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2004 375ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ half-bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Deep amber-yellow. Sexy, kaleidoscopic nose combines exotic tropical fruits, chestnut honey, raisin, dried fig, caramel and a musky iodine note. Then sharply delineated and penetrating on the palate in spite of its honeyed sweetness, with superb acidity giving spine to the dried fruit and ripe citrus flavors. This wonderfully vibrant yet thick and rich Vin Santo coats the mouth on the long, smooth finish. Great stuff.” ST
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $52.99
Isole e Olena Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2005 375ML ($59.95) $47 special, 6 half-bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2005 Vin Santo shows subtle signs of a warm vintage with candied orange peel, caramel, canned peach, honey and blanched almond. It spreads with thick intensity over the palate, offering sweetened, syrupy thickness. Cost; $55/375ml.” WA
Antonio Galloni 93 points “Orange peel, dried flowers, herbs, almonds, mint and sweet tobacco meld together in Isole e Olena’s 2005 Vin Santo. Delicate and lifted in style, the 2005 captures the essence of what can make Vin Santo compelling; namely a fabulous interplay between the oxidative notes the wine develops over the many years it spends in barrel, and the fresh, vibrant acidity conferred by white grapes.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Isole e Olena Wines Arriving in February 2016
Isole e Olena Collezione De Marchi Chardonnay Toscana IGT 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine-Searcher notes “Grapes sourced from four separate burgundy clones grafted onto old Cannaiolo vines in the late 1980’s and made in a similar way to quality white Burgundy.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Isole e Olena Syrah Collezione de Marchi Toscana IGT 2008 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
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!
Isole e Olena Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata 2011 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96+ points “The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata is superb. Black cherry jam, crème de cassis, smoke, plums, menthol, licorice and violets form a stunning backdrop as the 2011 opens up in the glass. Sumptuous and layered yet also quite fresh (especially for the year), the 2011 possesses superb balance and exceptional finesse. The intensity of the fruit nearly buries the tannins, but they are there. My impression is that the 2011 will offer a long and wide window of pure drinking pleasure.” AG
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT 2012 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana IGT 2012 1.5L ($179.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2012 Cepparello is magnificent. Radiant, pliant and super-expressive, the 2012 offers magnificent intensity, with silky tannins wrapped around a core of rich, dark-toned fruit. The intensity of the fruit suggests a warm vintage, but the structure is more medium in body and typical of a cooler year. Today, the 2012 gives the impression it will drink well pretty much upon release, but history has taught me Cepparello often shuts down in bottle. Either way, the 2012 is superb.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Isole e Olena Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2006 375ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2006 Vin Santo is quite powerful and viscous in the glass, perhaps a bit more so than is the norm. An exotic mélange of dried fig, honey, sage, baking spices and sweet herbs are all thrust forward. This is one of the most intense Vin Santos I can remember tasting at Isole e Olena. The 220 grams of residual sugar are clearly felt in the wine’s heft, yet all the elements are in the right place.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Cadence Winery
Bordeaux by Northwest
Cadence is an urban winery based in an industrial warehouse in southern Seattle. Proprietors Ben Smith and Gaye McNutt are former aviation/tech workers whose love for wine inspired them to create their beautiful Bordeaux-style blends. Cadence source their fruit from Red Mountain AVA vineyards such as Ciel du Cheval, Tapteil, and their estate vineyards, Cara Mia. Their envoy includes blends and single-vineyard bottlings; their wines have achieved huge acclaim and earned Cadence a top spot in Washington’s wine scene.
Cadence Wines Available Here Now:
Cadence Winery Coda, Red Mountain 2013 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 10 bottles available
Winery note “Bright raspberries on the nose are accompanied by the subtle wood spice notes and lovely Cabernet Franc floral accents. The palate is rich, plush, and silky textured yet retains surprising energy from the well balanced acidity. Supple tannins caress the long finish as berries and spice refuse to let go.”
Cadence Winery Bel Canto Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 9 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 94 points “(84% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 8% petit verdot; this and the Camerata were aged in 50% new French oak): Bright ruby-red. Exhilarating floral lift to the aromas of redcurrant and nutty oak; very Cabernet Franc. Perfectly integrated acidity energizes this somewhat muscular yet ultimately very suave wine, with the redcurrant and cherry flavors complicated by flowers, dusty dried herbs and minerals. Great subtle density here. Finishes with outstanding length and lift, harmonious smooth tannins, and a building sweetness to its floral perfume. This remarkably classy cab franc-based wine should evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years.” ST
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $60
Cadence Winery Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2011 Camerata is the Cabernet Sauvignon dominated blend that’s all from the estate Cara Mia Vineyard. Incorporating 7% each of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot and spending 23 months in roughly 50% new French oak, it’s a thrilling 2011 that makes the most of the vintage. Loaded with red and black currants, black cherry, dried spices, toast and graphite, this medium to full-bodied effort has a stacked mid-palate, masses of ripe tannin, and a savory, chewy finish. It will be better in another couple of years and be long lived.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $54.89
Cadence Winery Tapteil Vineyard Red, Red Mountain 2011 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 5 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “More ripe, layered and textured, the 2011 Tapteil Vineyard is knockout stuff. Showing impressive black and blue fruits, wild herbs, underbrush and hints of flowers, it is full-bodied, concentrated and has plenty of sweet tannin and integrated acidity. Enjoy this beauty anytime over the coming decade or more.” WA
Cadence Wines Arriving in November
Cadence Winery Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard, Red Mountain 2012 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Cadence Winery Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard, Red Mountain 2012 750ML ($749.95) $649 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “Sensational stuff, the 2012 Camerata (91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Cabernet Franc) is big, burly effort that offers classic Red Mountain structure and depth. Giving up lots of black cherry, crushed rocks, dried violets and graphite, it is savory, powerful and concentrated on the palate. It needs 4-5 years of cellaring and will hold for two decades after that.” JD
Wine Spectator 95 points “Vibrant, focused and aristocratic, centering on generous plum, currant, blackberry and floral aromas and flavors that play out against well-modulated, crisp tannins. Has presence and excellent length. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2017 through 2025. 225 cases made.” HS
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Cadence Winery Bel Canto Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2012 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Cadence Winery Bel Canto Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2012 750ML ($749.95) $649 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “I think the most approachable in the lineup, the 2012 Bel Canto has a complex, perfumed style in its dried flowers, dried spices, vanilla and black cherry and black raspberry-like fruit profile. A blend of 84% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 8% Petit Verdot that spent 20 months in 50% new French oak, it’s full-bodied, concentrated and structured on the palate, yet has perfect balance and a great texture. Few in the US are doing Cabernet Franc better this, and I suspect it will hold nicely for 15-20 years.” JD
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Time to Say Hello/Good Buy
The response was so outstanding that we had to offer more: this fantastic deal is re-arriving October 20th
Gaja Ca’Marcanda Magari Toscana IGT 2012 750ML ($79.95) $59 re-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “Upped to a Bolgheri status (previously this wine was identified as a Toscana IGT), the 2012 Bolgheri Magari is simply delightful. This vintage shows extra heft and dimension that allows the wine to spread smoothly over the palate. Merlot is blended with Cabernets Franc and Sauvignon, and the taste profile in the 2012 vintage definitely favors the Merlot component. Soft cherry and dark berry segue to spice and moist tobacco. The structure of the two Cabernet varieties shows in the mouth where the wine is elegant and tight. It needs more time for bottle evolution. Angelo Gaja’s Ca’Marcanda estate has hit its stride with this latest set of wines. His management of the 2011 heat is impressive, resulting in wines with power and finesse. Ca’Marcanda never seems to get the attention it deserves, and the wines are indeed pricy. Nonetheless, they are among the finest expressions on the Tuscan coast.” ML
James Sucking 93 points “Bright and firm with sliced-lemon, blueberry and almond character throughout. Full body, firm tannins and a clean finish. Clean and fresh. Better in 2016.” JS
Wine Spectator 92 points”Rich and bursting with cedar, licorice, black currant and sandalwood aromas and flavors, this red is dense and chewy. Balanced and long, this begs for grilled steak or a roast. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2022. ” WS
The legendary Gaja estate was anointed by Wine Spectator as the maker of “perhaps the finest Italian wines ever made.” Across Barolo, Barbaresco, and Tuscany, the Gaja family have come to be known as among the most esteemed, highly-lauded, and reliable winemakers in the world. Their unique approach to winemaking hangs them in the balance of being both modernist and traditional, choosing simply what makes the best wine according to their standards.
The “Magari” cuvee is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc which has earned somewhat of a cult status. This Super-Tuscan is grown in pebbly soils from vineyards in the northern Maremma, aged in new and lightly used barrique for 18 months, and then spends a minimum of six months’ aging in-bottle. In the glass, the wine boasts a powerful blend of mocha, herbs, smoked earth, and dark red fruit, with explosive aromas a silky, persistent finish. Ideal accompaniment would be a fine cut of steak, served by way of a decanter in order to best experience the full scope of the wine.
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A Double Dose of Vinsanity
Tenuta Luisa
Looking for a new and interesting alternative to Pinot Grigio? Ribolla Giallo is a less well known grape variety from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in the very north-eastern most corner of Italy. The region is excellent for producing bright, crisp wines with complex aromatics for bargain prices. Ribolla Giallo was thought to have been brought to Friuli through Slovenia as far back as the 13th century, though many consider the variety native to Friuli. It offers good acidity and expressive citrus and orchard fruit notes with a slight floral quality. The Luisa family has produced wines from their estate for over 80 years, driven by the philosophy that wine is a meeting of climate, terrain and man.
Case-12 Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($219.95) $159 special, 4 cases available (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Case-6 Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 6 six-packs available (that’s only $14.83/bottle!)
Tenuta Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 special, 15 bottles available
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
Bernabeleva
On the eastern edge of the Sierra de Gredox mountains, within the quality-driven San Martín sub-zone of the Vinos de Madrid DO, lies 80-year-old vineyards of Garnacha (Grenache) first planted by Vincente Alvarez-Villamil. He named the estate Bernabeleva (“the bear’s forest”) in tribute to the strong Celtic roots in the area. He was convinced that he had found a profound place to grow Garnacha. The vineyards lie high above sea level with poor, sandy soil made of decomposed granite and strong diurnal temperature swings. Ripeness is achieved while acidity and freshness are preserved. The wines are produced by Marc Isart Pinos, a Catalan winemaker, with assistance from consultant Raúl Pérez, a “master of cool-climate winemaking” according to Kermit Lynch. The wines undergo long fermentation with a hands-off approach before being aged primarily in old oak barrels of various sizes. The resulting wines are richly aromatic, fresh and showing a delicate vibrancy that almost evokes Pinot Noir… all at very palatable prices.
Bernabeleva Camino de Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2013 750ML ($16.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Bernabeleva Camino de Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2013 750ML ($179.95) $129 special, 7 cases available (that’s only $10.75/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “(all garnacha): Bright red. Smoky, spice-accented raspberry and cherry on the perfumed nose, with a bright floral accent building with air. Brisk and racy, offering fresh red fruit and rose pastille flavors and a hint of blood orange. I might have guessed this to be pinot. Finishes taut and clean, with a lingering redcurrant note and lacy tannins sneaking in slowly.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $16
Bodega Bernabeleva Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2012 750ML ($24.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Bodega Bernabeleva Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2012 750ML ($219.95) $169 special, 6 cases available (that’s only $14.08/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “(100% garnacha): Brilliant ruby-red. Fresh, intensely perfumed red and dark berries on the nose, with mineral, camphor and floral nuances building in the glass. Spicy raspberry and boysenberry flavors pack a solid punch but carry no excess weight. Finishes with very good spicy lift, fine-grained tannins and mineral-driven persistence.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $20
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Have a nice weekend!