March 30, 2015
Flash Sale
Collectors’ Corner – Best Buy
The OWC is available to the first buyer taking all six bottles
Hundred Acre Kayli 2004 ($349.95) Was $299, Now $279, 6 bottles available
Robert Parker 98 points “The wild man of Napa Valley, Jayson Woodbridge, has turned out one of the superstars of 2004, with the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan. His wines always tend to be gorgeous young, offering up an impression that they’re not going to last. But his first vintage, 2000, seems to get better and better, even though it was spectacular when released. The 2004, which was harvested in September, shows an almost Pomerol-like sweet mocha, kirsch, black currant and deeply fruited mouthfeel. It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, but the clay soils of his vineyard seem to give a sweetness of tannin and a voluptuous character to the texture. This wine oozes rich, concentrated fruit, is light on its feet and has gorgeous purity, a multidimensional mouthfeel and a stunning finish. Silky black currant, kirsch, licorice, mocha and caramelized fruit make for a stunningly full-throttle, brilliant 2004 to enjoy over the next 15 or more years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $299
The average price is $346
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arriving Here Late May 2015
Casanova di Neri’s 100 point bottling!
Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($219.95) $199 special
Wine Advocate 100 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is a protagonist of the vintage. The fruit is deep and dark with rich levels of extract, intensity and flavor. It goes far beyond your standard cherry and blackberry to include plum cake, spice bread and bacon-wrapped prune. Nothing is obvious or monochromatic about this wine. Everything is nuanced and ethereal. Tenuta Nuova is also distinguished by the linear mineral notes that are characteristic of this single-vineyard site. In 2010, those traits are especially well-defined and pronounced. The tannins reach a level of suppleness that is almost impossible to find in the sometimes prickly and acidic Sangiovese grape. If there is one thing Giacomo Neri has mastered, it is harvesting at optimal ripeness: He knows his property and his vines better than most and it shows. Collectors will want to put this wine aside ten years or longer.” WA
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New Arrival Special Feature
Clau de Nell
Anne-Claude Leflaive and Christian Jacques purchased Clau de Nell in 2008; Sylvain Potin joined the team as estate manager in 2009. The property is comprised of 10 hectares (24.7 acres) of vines on a gently sloping hill surrounded by open countryside. The highest point of Clau de Nell offers a glimpse of the Loire in the distance; from here, an uninterrupted view unveils the sky and the river on the horizon, as well as rows of Grolleau, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc. As with Domaine Leflaive, all of Clau de Nell’s wines are 100 percent biodynamic. –From the importer
Clau de Nell Anjou Cabernet Franc 2012 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 89 points “Solid, with a racy core of damson plum and bitter cherry fruit backed by lively tobacco leaf and olive notes. The fresh finish lets a savory edge chime in, leaving a mouthwatering echo. Drink now through 2015.” WS
Clau de Nell Anjou Cuvee Violette 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The full-bodied 2011 Anjou Cabernet Franc Cuvée Violette is from the same soils as the regular Anjou but more powerful, sweet and concentrated and – with enough aeration – also more floral. This is a rich, noble, well-manufactured jewel of Cabernet Franc combining clarity, freshness and finesse with intensity and power. I’d put it rather in a luxury Bordeaux, Right Bank context compared with the regular Cabernet Franc, but this is no argument against this wine which reveals floral and spicy scented flavors of dark berries, black chocolate and marzipan on the nose and is fleshy, fruit-intense and well balanced on the palate. Structured by firm tannins, this is rather a winter wine and should be a good match with braised meat. In any case, I would recommend to give it another couple of years of bottle age.” WA
Clau de Nell Anjou Cuvee Violette 2012 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Dark cherry and bitter plum notes are laced with bay leaf and dark olive hints. Stays fresh and pure through the finish, with an iron note holding everything together. Impressive for the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2016.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OREGON
Evesham Wood Blanc de Puits Sec 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Patricia Green Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Oregon 2014 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
WASHINGTON
Owen Roe ‘Ex Umbris’ Syrah, Yakima Valley 2012 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Owen Roe ‘Ex Umbris’ Syrah, Yakima Valley2012 750ML ($279.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA!)
Wine Spectator 91 points “Focused, dense and polished, with blackberry, cherry and floral flavors on a glassy, smooth texture, lingering easily and showing some transparency on the finish. Has intensity and grace. Drink now through 2018.” WS
CALIFORNIA
Saintsbury Chardonnay, Carneros 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “Lemony and balanced in oak, it reveals ripe Asian pear, creamy vanilla and a swirl of toffee. Medium bodied and smooth on the palate, it features buoyant acidity. It’s ideal for pairing with roast chicken or meat topped with an apple chutney.” WE
Edmunds St. John Bone-Jolly Gamay Rose, El Dorado County 2014 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
Guarachi Family Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($89.95) $69 special
Robert Parker 95 points “The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is a stunning bottle of wine. Dense ruby/purple with terrific texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel, plenty of blackberry and cassis fruit, a nice chewiness, but not anything over-the-top or overripe, this is big, bold in-your-face style of Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 10-15 years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
James Suckling 93 points “Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and fresh fruit follow through to a full body with super-integrated tannins in this fresh, clean, stylish red. This harkens back to the great Clos du Vals of the 1970s.” JS
FRANCE-CHAMPAGNE
Guy Charlemagne Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru Reserve Brut NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Guy Charlemagne Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru Reserve Brut NV 375ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “(made with fruit from the Cote de Blancs, mostly from Mesnil-sur-Oger): Light yellow. Vibrant lemon, orange zest, jasmine and mineral scents are complemented by deeper notes of anise and buttered toast. Spreads out nicely on the palate, offering lively citrus and orchard fruit flavors and a touch of bitter quinine. Closes smooth and long, with echoing minerality and a touch of bitter pear skin. There’s very good depth here, as well as verve.” ST
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
FRANCE-BORDEAUX
Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte ‘Les Hauts de Smith’ Blanc, Pessac-Leognan 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
James Suckling 91-92 points
Chateau Coutet ‘Opalie de Coutet’ 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Spectator 91 points “Rich, with lemon curd and heather notes leading the way, followed by flavors of candied citrus, grapefruit rind, citrus oil and a flash of brioche. Still quite fresh, but the long finish hints at a mellow nuttiness that will develop with age.” WS
Chateau Cantemerle, Haut-Medoc 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Robert Parker 94+ points “The wine needs a good 7-10 years of cellaring and should keep for 30 more years, but this is the finest Cantemerle I have encountered in my professional career of tasting young vintages (dating back 34 years now). Stunningly deep ruby/purple, with a beautiful nose of spring flowers intermixed with perfumed raspberry and blueberry notes, it exhibits a sort of cool-climate character. Broad, rich and intense on the palate, the wine has plenty of tannins, but they are sweet and well-integrated. Everything is delicately entwined into this beautiful, medium to full-bodied, dense purple wine, which shows stunning character and a prodigious potential for development. This is definitely a major sleeper of the vintage and even better than I thought from barrel. With its 2010, this classified growth located in the southern end of the Medoc may well have made a modern-day version of their legendary 1949.” RP
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Clotilde Davenne Domaine Les Temps Perdus Saint-Bris 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special
Domaine Jean-Pierre Grossot Chablis 2012 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 89 points “Inviting aromas of lemon, ginger, white truffle and menthol, plus a leesy nuance. Fruity and supple on entry, then turns steely and dry on the back half, finishing with good grip. A serious and very young village wine, still slightly tight.” ST
Domaine Remi Jobard Les Genevrieres, Meursault Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) $79 special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “In 2011 the Meursault 1er Cru Genevrières is ethereal, gracious and impeccably refined. Here, too, the aromas and flavors haven’t really developed, instead what impresses most is the wine’s pure minerality and intensity. Lemon, crushed rocks, white flowers and savory herbs all inform the pointed, chiseled finish. The 2011 needs at least a few years in the cellar. If opened today the 2011 needs a lot of air.” AG
Domaine Remi Jobard Saint-Romain Blanc, Cote de Beaune 2011 750ML ($41.95) $29 special
Antonio Galloni 89 points “The 2011 Saint Romain, from Jobard’s negoce label, is very pretty. Energetic and wiry, it shows lovely tension in its expressive white stone fruits, flowers and bright, saline notes. This gracious, medium-bodied white will be at its best over the next few years.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Remi Jobard Le Poruzot-Dessus, Meursault Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) $79 special
Antonio Galloni 92+ points “A deep, earthy wine, the 2011 Meursault 1er Cru Poruzots-Dessus hits the palate with tons of muscle and power. The style is bold and direct. There isn’t a whole lot of complexity here, but there is plenty of pure stuffing. It will be interesting to see where the 2011 goes over the coming year. Today structural elements dominate over fruit.” AG
Domaine Henri Gouges Nuits-Saint-Georges, Cote de Nuits 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Antonio Galloni 89-91 points “The 2012 Nuits St. Georges is utterly exquisite. Sweet floral and spice notes lift out of the glass, followed by a host of blue/black fruits, spices, mint and licorice. The flavors are classic Nuits but the villages is surprisingly weightless, aromatic and polished. I especially like the freshness of the finish.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Henri Gouges Les Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Antonio Galloni 89-91 points “Beams of bright acidity and minerality run through the 2012 Nuits St. Georges Les Chaignots. Freshly cut flowers, mint, dark raspberries and chalk flow effortlessly. This is a decidedly vertical Nuits built on energy. The style is a bit compact, but pretty all the same.” AG
FRANCE-RHONE
Chateau Pesquie Cotes du Ventoux Terrasses, Rhone 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2013 Ventoux Terrasses offer gorgeous garrigue, white pepper, underbrush and sweet berry fruit to go with a forward, seamless, elegant style on the palate. Year in and year out this cuvee is an incredible value and a no brainer that readers need to buy.” WA
FRANCE-LOIRE
Philippe Alliet Chinon 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
FRANCE-LANGUEDOC/PROVENCE
Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Commanderie de Peyrassol’ Rose 2014 750ML ($24.95) $18.80 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chateau La Roque Pic Saint-Loup, Languedoc-Roussillon 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special
FRANCE-OTHER
Les Capriades Pet Sec NV ($27.95) $24 special
VinopolNote: A dry methode ancestrale (Petillant Naturel or naturally semi-sparkling) blend of Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc with no sulfur.
ITALY-PIEDMONT
Vietti Nebbiolo Perbacco Langhe, Piedmont 2012 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Vietti Nebbiolo Perbacco Langhe, Piedmont 2012 750ML ($299.95) $226 special (that’s only 18.83/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Vietti’s 2012 Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco is fabulous. Floral and lifted, the flavors are bright, focused and beautifully articulated throughout. Chalky notes support a sculpted, brilliant finish laced with hints orange peel, white pepper and crushed rocks.” AG
The average price in the USA today is $24/bottle
ITALY-TUSCANY
Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 2011 750ML ($31.95) $26 special
James Suckling 92 points “A beautiful red with strawberry, blueberry and cherry character. Full body, fine tannins and a caressing finish. Very fine indeed. Citrusy acidity and creamy tannins. A faulous Vino Nobile. One of the best ever from here. Better in 2016.” JS
ITALY-OTHER
Alois Lageder Pinot Grigio Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT, Trentino-Alto Adige 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 special
Winery note “Brilliant straw yellow with a green shimmer. Quite pronounced and expressive aroma with flowery and somewhat spicy notes. Rich flavoured in the mouth, with a slight smokiness at the back and a good, fresh finish. When properly, cellared, this will drink well for 2 to 4 years.”
SPAIN
Senorio de Iniesta Bobal Rosado Vino de la Tierra, Castilla La Mancha 2014 750ML ($11.95) $8.80 special
Winery note “[Translated] Bright and intense. Very fruit nose with notes of raspberry, currants and jelly. Soft but fresh and balanced with the classic characteristics of the Bobal variety.”
Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2010 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
Case-12 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2010 750ML ($499.95) $439 special (that’s only $36.58/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Tight as a drum on the nose, this rambunctious Rioja is throbbing with blackberry, plum and floral aromas. Intense and staunch on the palate, with plum, raspberry, cherry, herb and chocolate flavors, this runs long on the finish, with power and acidity to spare. Hold until 2017, then drink through 2035. Cellar Selection.” WE
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “(70% tempranillo, 20% garnacha, 7% mazuelo and 3% graciano; fermented in large oak vats and aged for 28 months in small French and American oak barrels of varying age): Inky purple. Flamboyant aromas of ripe berries, incense, potpourri, smoky oak and pungent minerals. Lush, fleshy and alluringly sweet, offering intense black and blue fruit flavors that coat the palate. Smooth, seamless and impressively concentrated but also lively, with sneaky tannins giving shape to the long, spice-accented finish.” ST
Mas D’en Compte Black Slate Porrera Vi de la Vila, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
Robert Parker 93 points “From one of Priorat’s coolest micro-climates, this 2012 Black Slate is composed of 60% old vine Grenache (60+ years) and 40% old Carignan (80 years), and aged 12 months in concrete tanks, old wood foudres, and two-year-old barrels. It reveals lots of licorice, crushed wet rock, sweet blueberry and black raspberry fruit characteristics along with a full-bodied, moderately tannic mouthfeel. The tannins are sweet and well-integrated, and the wine is drinking beautifully already. For a relatively expensive Spanish appellation, this is an outright steal! Consume it over the next 3-6 years.” RP
Bodegas Castano Solanera Vinas Viejas, Yecla 2012 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Case-12 Bodegas Castano Solanera Vinas Viejas, Yecla 2012 750ML ($219.95) $179 special (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 94 points “Even more remarkable is the 2012 Solanera Vinas Viejas, a blend of 70% Mourvedre, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Grenache aged 10 months in a combination of French and American oak. A custom cuvee that is only available through importer Eric Solomon, this amazing red wine displays notes of lead pencil shavings, acacia flowers, black raspberries, blueberries and black currants. This full-bodied, intense 2012 tastes like it should cost three to five times as much. Full-bodied, stunningly pure and textured, it should last for 4-5 years, possibly longer.” WA
Bodegas Mas Alta – Vinyes Mas Romani Artigas, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($31.95) $28 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “A slightly more expensive cuvee, the 2012 Artigas is composed of 70% Grenache, 25% Carignan and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 16 months in French oak. In the glory days prior to the recession, a wine such as this would have sold for $50 to $75 a bottle, but prices have dropped dramatically, given not only the international recession, but also the severe economic problems afflicting Spain. The black/purple-colored 2012 Artigas offers a gorgeous perfume of spring flowers, licorice, lavender, black currants and black raspberries. The wine hits the palate with a thunderous display of rich fruit, full body, stunning purity, sweet tannin and lots of minerality. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next decade.” WA
Grupo Artevino Finca Villacreces Pruno, Ribera del Duero 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Robert Parker 93 points “This blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon emerges from a vineyard situated adjacent to one of the famous vineyards utilized to produce Spain’s greatest red wine, Vega Sicilia. Made from relatively old vines, the 2012 Pruno is a sexy, opulent, voluptuously textured effort that spent 12 months in two-year-old French oak barrels. Reminiscent of a baby Vega Sicilia, it possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as notes of high-class, unsmoked cigar tobacco, creme de cassis, licorice, graphite and spice box. Full-bodied, deep, velvety textured, lush and heady, at $20 a bottle, it is another sensational bargain from Eric Solomon. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years.” RP
Rotllan Torra Reserva, Priorat DOCa 2009 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
Winery note “[Translated] Grapes were hand-harvested as each plot reached optimum ripeness. The nose presents the best of new oak: toast and spicy notes, with an undernote of ripe raspberries and blueberries. As the highly aromatic wine evolves in the glass, it gradually shows spicy aromas, notes of ripe red fruit and some notes of licorice. The palate has moderate acidity with a round, well-structured mouthfeel and sweet, velvety tannins giving smoothness and an elegant and long finish. Very pleasant in the mouth, soothing, silky, very persistent, with long aftertaste that leaves the palate full of a complex array of aromas that invite drinking. A wine of extraordinary quality. A harmony of textures, elegant, black cherry, spice and toasty oak.”
GERMANY
Weingut A.J. Adam Riesling Trocken, Mosel 2013 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
Terry Theise notes: “A little purchased fruit this year, the crop was so small. All Dhron. Half & half sponti and cutured yeast, all done in steel.The ’13 aroma is there but the wine is more limpid and pebbly than most, balanced-dry, with cool quince-y fruit; ’13expresses as burnt-candle now, and this smells as much like (good!) Chenin as like Riesling”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut A.J. Adam Dhroner Hofberg Riesling Trocken, Mosel 2013 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Robert Parker 93+ points “Selected twice (in the vineyard and at the winery to process only healthy grapes), 100% fuder-fermented and bottled in May 2014, the 2013 Dhroner Hofberg Riesling trocken has a very clear and precise nose displaying ripe peach and nectarine aromas intertwined with slate flavors. This leads to an impressively intense, filigreed and pure wine which develops power and finesse and does not have a single gram of fat. Sourced from 60-year-old and partly ungrafted vines this 12.4% natural alcohol cru is a full-bodied, elegant, precise and crystalline Riesling with an impressive purity and terroir expression. It has just begun its flight and could be even finer in half a year. “RP
Terry Theise notes: “This is the quasi-GG and of all these obstreperous ’13s it was the best behaved. In fact a lovely dry Riesling, herbal, juicy, malic and salty; long and clinging finish; amazing equipoise of ethereal delicacy and heavy density and grip. 94º Oechsle, rather little botrytis, cask-fermented and aged on the fine lees, and finely smoky; only 8.5g/l RS but extract concentration confers a kind of facsimile of “’sweetness.'”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
AUSTRIA
Weingut Hirsch Ried Lamm Gruner Veltliner, Kamptal 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Slowly emerging aromas of honeyed peach, lime zest and ripe plum. Harmoniously herbal and subtly austere, with wonderfully integrated acidity lending a particularly refreshing quality to the peach and apricot flavors. This is less a veltliner to drink on its own than a very versatile food wine.” ST
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $56.99
Weingut Bernhard Ott ‘Der Ott’ Gruner Veltliner, Wagram 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
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.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut Bernhard Ott Feuersbrunner Spiegel Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage, Wagram 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 92 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
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.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Staff Picks
Vietti Nebbiolo Perbacco Langhe, Piedmont 2012 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 staff pick
“A great vintage for Perbacco, and the same for Barolo. 100% Nebbiolo from, on average, 35 year old vines. The wine is aged for 2 years before bottling. The same vinification and aging process is used for the Barolo Castiglione. In the glass, wine offers copious fruit and structured tannins. Intense now, but surely to become more complex and elegant with aging. Great with roasted game, stew, and aged cheeses.”
-Troy
Forteto della Luja ‘Forteto Pian dei Sogni’ Piemonte Brachetto, Piedmont 2008 375ML ($39.95) $33 staff pick special, 5 half-bottles available
“This delightful dessert wine is made from the Brachetto grape, which is indigenous to Piedmont. The winemaker specializes in dessert-style wines. This bottling is a lightly colored brick red. It shows concentrated aromas of fresh roses and red cherries, with a hint of fresh mint. There is a touch of tannin giving the wine a pleasant texture and balance the ample sweetness. Enjoy with baked fruit or chocolate desserts.”
-Suzy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arriving Fall 2015
Vega Sicilia
This year sees a return to the former Vega Sicilia practice of releasing Unico vintages as they become ready, rather than in strict chronological order. With the monster, brooding 2005 requiring more time, Pablo Alvarez has made the decision to release the finer, more forward 2007 first, since it is tasting great already. This is a classic “Atlantic” vintage, showing the stylistic similarity of Unico to fine Left Bank Grand Cru CLasse Bordeaux. Perhaps the biggest attention-grabber this year is the extraordinary Valbuena 2010. – From the importer
Vega Sicilia Unico Gran Reserva, Ribera del Duero 2007 750ML ($279.95) $319 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Vega Sicilia Tinto Valbuena 5, Ribera del Duero 2010 750ML ($159.95) $131.50 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 96 points “Since the 2010 harvest, they ferment plot by plot, and it shows. This Valbuena has almost 100 components in it, smaller lots, all of them corresponding to a plot of vines. It has all the signs of being one of the best vintages ever for this second wine from Vega Sicilia, mostly Tempranillo but with 5% Merlot that matured five months in 20,000-liter oak vats, 18 months in new barriques (equal parts French and American oak), three months in used barrels and then five months in the vats again before being bottled in May 2013. 2010 seems to have the exuberance of the 2011 and the seriousness and elegance of 2009. It has the Burgundian philosophy of terroir, with all plots fermented and aged separately, giving each vineyard what it needs in terms of vinification and elevage resulting in something like 40 separate lots to blend. This wine has gained in precision and sharpness, and is very pure with delineated aromas and flavors. It is a world-class wine, possibly the best Valbuena ever.” WA (Luis Gutierrez, August 2014)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Some Some Summertime
Chillin’ While You’re Grillin’
Cameron Saignee of Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Winery note “Hints of orange rind, strawberry parfait, cream, tarragon, Chinese 5 spice, frumetto (you are going to have to look that one up), and yes, Funyuns. Just plain delicious. And it’s pink.”
Bethel Heights Vineyard Rose, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Ayres Estate Rose of Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Winery note “We deliberatly pick this block of Pinot Noir specifically for our Rose. We find our eastern-most Pommard rows offers a nice spicy element to this Rose. Get a sneak peek into the 2014 vintage with this Rose of Pinot Noir. Fruity, earthy, and spicy – everything for which our Pinot Noirs are known!”
Omero Cellars Omero Vineyard Rose of Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2013 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 special
Winery note “This single-block Estate Rose was picked prior to any other Pinot Noir specifically for the purpose of producing an expressive but refined Rose. Both rich and bright in style, this wine is balanced with juicy flavors of red fruits, fresh flowers and subtle dried herbs.”
Illahe Tempranillo Estate Rose, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Winery note “The 2014 Illahe Vineyards Tempranillo Rosé is a whole-cluster pressed, resulting in a delicate rosé with a pale salmon color. Aromas of Strawberries and cream, whith a crisp, fleshy palate; it will make a great partner for fresh fruit and cheese.”
Everybody Should Eat More Fish
Alois Lageder Pinot Grigio Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT, Trentino-Alto Adige 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 special
Winery note “Brilliant straw yellow with a green shimmer. Quite pronounced and expressive aroma with flowery and somewhat spicy notes. Rich flavoured in the mouth, with a slight smokiness at the back and a good, fresh finish. When properly, cellared, this will drink well for 2 to 4 years.”
Spend on the Steaks – Save on the Wine
Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley750ML ($249.95) $179 special (that’s only $14.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Wine Enthusiast “This full-bodied, concentrated wine is dry, quite firm and tannic in texture. It smells rich and a bit earthy, and tastes like blackberries, cranberries and beef. The style will accompany rich, meaty food very well.”
Mo’ Better Burger Wines
Georges Duboeuf Domaine Jean-Ernest Descombes Morgon, Beaujolais 2011 750ML ($17.95) $9.90 special
Case-12 Georges Duboeuf Domaine Jean-Ernest Descombes Morgon, Beaujolais 2011 750ML ($179.95) $99 special (that’s only $8.25/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 91 points “Like berries freshly picked on a summer day, the raspberry and strawberry notes here are ripe and pure, mixing with hints of pekoe tea leaf, mineral, ground anise and damson preserves. An elegant and balanced version. Drink now through 2018.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $12.39/bottle
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Springtime Sales Review
Our Bordeaux & Rhone Wines Best Prices & Repricements
Sale Ends on All Spring Specials April 30th at 11:59pm
BORDEAUX
Chateau Le Gay Pomerol 2009 750ML ($199.95) Was $149, Now $119
Robert Parker 96+points “Tiny yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare and a final blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc have produced an enormously concentrated, black/purple-colored wine exhibiting notes of roasted meats, smoked game, blackberries, coffee, incense and forest floor. This distinctive, large-scaled, viscous, thick Pomerol may be as concentrated as some of this estate’s all-time classics (1947 and 1950). I am puzzled by why I could not see this a few years ago. In any event, this is one of the most profound Le Gay’s ever produced. Forget it for at least a decade and drink it over the following half century.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $148
Chateau Leoville-Las Cases ‘Grand Vin de Leoville du Marquis de Las Cases’, Saint-Julien 2010 750ML ($399.95) Was $379, Now $299
Wine Spectator 98 points “*Collectibles* Stunning and pure from the get-go, with intense cassis and blackberry fruit. Ultimately takes a slightly austere approach, with a wrought-iron structure driving along while pastis, black tea, licorice snap and asphalt notes course underneath. Long and loaded with grip, this remains remarkably fine-grained. A very chiseled Cabernet that is wonderfully precise and incredibly long. Best from 2020 through 2040.” WS
Chateau La Conseillante, Pomerol 2005 750ML ($399.95) Was $279, Now $236
Wine Spectator 97 points “This is decadent and wild on the nose, with fresh cèpe, raw steak and wild berry. Full-bodied, with loads of velvety tannins, yet refined and caressing in every way. A beautiful, balanced red. The best young wine ever from this producer. Best after 2017.”WS
Chateau Troplong Mondot, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2009 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $179
Robert Parker 99 points “It boasts an inky/purple color along with a gorgeous bouquet of mocha, chocolate, blackberry and cassis fruit, an unctuous texture, a full-bodied, viscous mouthfeel and a skyscraper-like, multilayered finish. This spectacular wine is nearly overwhelming in its richness, thickness and intensity. Once all its baby fat falls away, the terroir characteristics and additional nuances will emerge. This blockbuster, fabulous Troplong Mondot will benefit from 10-15 years of cellaring and keep for three decades or more. It is not shy either, bouncing over the palate with 15.5% natural alcohol. The 2009 Troplong Mondot will provide plenty of competition for the 2010, 2005 and 2000. It comes closest in style to the prodigious 1990 that proprietress Christine Valette produced 22 years ago. A phenomenal effort, it unquestionably justifies its relatively new Premier Grand Cru St.-Emilion status. Readers should keep in mind that the 1990, which probably has lower acidity and not the level of concentration found in the 2009, is drinking incredibly well at age 22 and reveals no signs of falling apart.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $209
Chateau Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Leognan 2010 750ML ($249.95) Was $199, Now $133
Wine Advocate 98 points “Deep plum/purple, Haut-Bailly’s 2010 required some coaxing to appreciate its subtle notes of barbecue smoke, lead pencil shavings and creme de cassis as well as its touches of pomegranate and forest floor. The oak is pushed far into the background and the tannins are extremely silky, but the intensity of the wine is profound and the finish lingers for close to 55 seconds. This wine is ripe yet delicate, powerful yet stylish, and essentially resembles a remarkable fashion design from a house of haute couture. This wine needs a good 7-8 years of bottle age and should keep for 40-50+ years.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $189
Chateau Leoville Poyferre, Saint-Julien 2009 3L ($1,799.95) Was $1,499, Now $1,199
Robert Parker 100 points “One of the more flamboyant and sumptuous wines of the vintage, this inky/purple-colored St.-Julien reveals thrilling levels of opulence, richness and aromatic pleasures. A soaring bouquet of creme de cassis, charcoal, graphite and spring flowers is followed by a super-concentrated wine with silky tannins, stunning amounts of glycerin, a voluptuous, multilayered mouthfeel and nearly 14% natural alcohol. Displaying fabulous definition for such a big, plump, massive, concentrated effort, I suspect the tannin levels are high even though they are largely concealed by lavish amounts of fruit, glycerin and extract. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chateau Bellevue-Mondotte, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2003 750ML ($399.95) $199 special
Robert Parker 98 points “An exquisite jewel in Chantal and Gerard Perse’s Right Bank empire, Bellevue-Mondotte is a tiny, 5-acre parcel of 45-year-old vines planted on the limestone plateau above Pavie-Decesse and Pavie-Macquin. It is composed of 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. I tasted the 2003 on three separate occasions, one of which merited a three-digit rating. Sadly, there are only 4,000 bottles of this prodigious effort. Possessing relatively high alcohol (14.5%) for a Bordeaux, it is an amazing blend made from 15 hectoliters per hectare. A dense, viscous-looking purple color is accompanied by a sweet perfume of blackberries, espresso roast, fried lard, and pain grille. Full-bodied and massively rich with decent acidity and plenty of structure as well as tannin, this youthful 2003 should hit its stride in 3-5 years, and last for three decades. This may be what the great 1929s or 1947s tasted like at age three.”RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $231
Chateau Climens, Barsac 2004 375ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $29
Wine Spectator 92 points “Shows apricot tart, with hints of candied lemons on the nose. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with lovely concentration and a lemony, spicy, almost flinty aftertaste. Impressive for the vintage. Very lively and zingy on the finish. Best after 2009.”WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chateau d’Yquem, Sauternes 1995 750ML ($319.95) Was $279, Now $219
Neal Martin Wine Journal 95-97 points “Tasted at the chateau. O.K. – I think this is better than the 1990! Intense hue. Brilliant expressive apricot/orangey nose with tonnes of botrytis. Unctuous and fat. Slightly lower in acidity than other vintages. Very concentrated with an incredibly intense finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
RHONE
Mas de Boislauzon Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Quet, Rhone 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 special
Wine Advocate 94-96+ points “Even more impressive and a candidate for the wine of the vintage, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Quet (pronounced “kay”) is a blend of 80% tank-aged Grenache and 20% barrel-aged Mourvedre. A big, massive wine, with decadent roasted herbs, black and red fruits, licorice and scorched earth, this full-bodied, mouth-filling and brilliantly concentrated effort doesn’t lack for texture or richness, yet remains fresh and very drinkable. It should drink well for 15-20 years. Drink 2014-2032. Run by the brother and sister team of Daniel and Christine Chaussy, this brilliant estate covers just over 20 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape, most of which are in the northern part. They produce up to three Chateauneufs in top vintages and one white. In addition, their Vin de France and Cotes du Rhone Villages are always superb and sell for a song. Note: there was no Cuvee du Quet or le Tinto produced in 2011, and no Tinto in 2012.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99.97
M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Meal 2010 750ML ($319.95) $299 special
Robert Parker 99 points “From the warmest site of these three vineyards, the 2010 Ermitage Le Meal has sweet creme de cassis, blackberry, bacon fat and a meaty, bloody steak component to its richness. It has good acidity, but is clearly the most voluptuous and succulent of this quartet of monumental wines from one of the greatest appellations for wine in the world, Hermitage. This wine needs a good decade of cellaring and should continue to evolve for 40-50+ years.”WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon 2010 750ML ($399.95) $349 special
Robert Parker 100 points “Tasting like the concentrated blood from an aged and grilled strip steak, the 2010 Ermitage Le Pavillon boasts a black/purple color along with creme de cassis, camphor, pen ink, white flower and lead pencil shaving characteristics in its massive, full-bodied personality. It almost defies description because of its ethereal concentration and off-the-charts extract levels. This is not for the faint of heart, or those who lack patience, as it will require 10-15 years of bottle age, and, as previously stated, will keep for 50 or more. There are just over 1,000 cases of the 2010 Le Pavillon, another perfect wine in the constellation of profound wines produced by Michel Chapoutier.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
M. Chapoutier Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne 2007 750ML ($129.95) Was $99, Now $89
Robert Parker 90-93 points “The 2007 Ermitage La Sizeranne displays a similar deep ruby/purple-tinged color in addition to sweet aromas of raspberries, black currants, smoke, gun flint, and spice. This full-bodied, well-made wine reveals outstanding richness, purity, and overall balance. Consume it over the next 15-20 years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $94.99
Domaine Boisson Cotes du Rhone Villages Cairanne Cuvee L’Exigence, Rhone 2011 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “(70% grenache, 20% syrah and 10% mourvedre): Vivid ruby. Heady aromas of candied red fruits, lavender pastille and spicecake, plus a bright mineral overtone. Energetic and focused on the palate, offering sweet raspberry and cherry compote flavors that turn more smoky and tangy with air. Rich yet lively Cairanne with very good finishing power and supple tannins coming on late.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Combe des Fous 2010 ($199.95) Was $169, Now $159
Robert Parker 98 points “The limited production cuvee of 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous (60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and the rest Muscardin, Vaccarese and Cinsault) is awesome. There have been many great vintages of this wine (2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011), but the 2010 flirts with perfection. One of the most complex aromatic expressions of Chateauneuf du Pape, it offers up notes of Christmas fruitcake, spring flowers, mulberries, blueberries, black raspberries, espresso beans and spice box. Full-bodied, opulent and voluptuously textured, its luxurious, lavish fruit conceals amazing levels of glycerin and alcohol. This wine possesses prodigious intensity, massive layers of fruit and an incredible 45-50-second finish. Forget it for 4-5 years, and drink it over the following 20-25 years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $179.99
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Combe des Fous 2006 ($279.95) Was $249, Now $199
Robert Parker 99 points “Shockingly, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Combe des Fous is almost as good. From a vintage that flies under the radar, it boasts a classic Clos Saint Jean profile of kirsch liqueur, ripe black raspberries, ground herbs and sweet garrigue to go with full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. Always slightly more elegant and silky than the more powerful Deus ex Machina, this thrill ride of a Chateauneuf will continue to drink well for another decade.”
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Deus ex Machina 2006 ($279.95) Was $249, Now $199
Robert Parker 99 points “The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Deus ex Machina was flirting with perfection on this go around, and was open, layered and sexy. Possessing rock-star kirsch, blackberry liqueur, incense, spice, garrigue and ground pepper, it’s a full-bodied, incredibly textured 2006 that has thrilling concentration, sweet tannin and a finish this just keeps going. If forced to pick one of these bottles for current drinking, it’s showing spectacularly.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cave Yves Cuilleron Cote Rotie Madiniere 2009 750ML ($109.95) $89 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Offers a grippy edge from the start, with briar, pepper and smoldering tobacco notes framing the core of dark plum, fig sauce and blackberry fruit. The long, structured finish echoes with violet and sweet tapenade, with nicely riveted acidity. Best from 2012 through 2022.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Delas Freres Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes-Marquise de la Tourette 2009 1.5L ($279.95) Was $219, Now $199, 8 magnums available
Robert Parker 98 points “The magnificent 2009 Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes boasts a black/purple color as well as a wonderful nose of creosote, incense, charcoal, blackberry jam, acacia flowers, white chocolate and a hint of espresso roast. Full-bodied and unctuously textured with low acidity and magnificent density, this 2009 can be drunk in 5-6 years or cellared for 30-50 years.”RP
Domaine Rene Rostaing Cote-Rotie La Landonne 2011 750ML ($169.95) Was $139, Now $119, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “More substantial, with a meaty, muscular feel, the 2011 Cote Rotie La Landonne exhibits lots of olive tapenade, underbrush, crushed rock and blackberry-styled fruit on the nose. Full-bodied, nicely concentrated (especially for a 2011) and yet voluptuously textured, with moderate, fine tannin, it will round into form relatively early, yet evolve gracefully for 15-20 years.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $158
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This Shop Never Closes!
Shop Online Now
www.vinopoliswineshop.com