Saturday, June 20th, 2015
Flash Sale; New Weekend – New Arrivals; A Case, Of Course; Burgundies Arriving Late June; A Hole in One with Jack Nicklaus; New Rose Reviews; Serious Dolcetto from San Fereolo Arriving Next Month; Saint Cosme New Gigondas Releases
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Mid-West, East & South
Summer Shipping Saver
Whisk your wine through warmer weather!
Now for the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments normally travelling 4 or more business days.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Flash Sale
Louis Jadot Pommard 2010 750ML ($59.95) $33 special
Case-12 Louis Jadot Pommard 2010 750ML ($479.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni – Vinous 88-90 points “The 2010 Pommard is a gorgeous village-level wine laced with silky red fruit, crushed flowers, spices and mint. The higher-altitude location of the plots used for the Pommard gives the wine an amount of pure textural finesse that is highly unusual for a wine of this level. Soft, floral notes round out the finish. In 2010 the Pommard is made mostly from estate fruit.”AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $42.95
The average price is $49
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
New Weekend New Arrivals
OREGON
Cameron Winery Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2013 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
VinopolNote: For the first time in 15 years Cameron Winery is releasing a Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir. Sourced from seven year old vines.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
CALIFORNIA
Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Four Hearts Vineyard Chardonnay, Russian River Valley 2013 750ML ($39.95) $28 special
Antonio Galloni–Vinous 93 points “The 2013 Chardonnay Four Hearts Vineyards is a classic Russian River Chardonnay built on texture and exuberance. Honey, almonds dried herbs and apricots all flesh out in a generous, deeply expressive Chardonnay. Most of this fruit comes from Tom Dehlinger.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $37
FRANCE-CHAMPAGNE
Francoise Bedel Champagne Extra Brut NV 375ML ($31.95) $26.60 special
90% Meunier, 10% Pinot Noir
This is the only listing in the USA today!
BURGUNDY
Olivier Leflaive Meursault 2011 750ML ($59.95) $36 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “This is clean and focused, with a hint of seashore gracing the apple, grapefruit and baking spice flavors. Shows fine length and intensity. Drink now through 2020. 435 cases imported.” WS
ITALY-OTHER
Provenza Sebastian Brut, Lombardy NV 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Winemaker Notes “The white Charmat Sebastian wine takes its name from the founder of the Maiolo Farmhouse, the Notary Sebastian Maiolo, commemorated on the keystone of the door of the manor house. The early harvesting of the grapes, ideal for forming the base of a sparkling wine with more acidity, allows us to obtain the structure of a wine suitable for a second fermentation in its own autoclaves for 6 months. The use of indigenous ferments, maintained in the cellar at low temperatures, gives the possibility of obtaining a cuvee which gives a fragrant perfume and a very fine effervescence.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Score a Hole-in-One This Father’s Day with Jack Nicklaus!
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus has lived his entire life in pursuit of excellence, whether mastering the game of golf and dominating his competition like no one before him, or by designing some of the most challenging and distinctive golf courses around the world. Jack, a longtime wine collector, sought to put his personal stamp on a world-class collection of wines and partnered with the Terlato family to create his signature Napa Valley wines.
Jack Nicklaus Golden Bear Reserve, Napa Valley 2010 1.5L ($399.95) $149 special, 27 magnums available
Vinopolnotes- Jack Nicklaus Wines, a line of handcrafted, limited-production wines from California’s famed Napa Valley is a partnership between Terlato Wines and golf legend Jack Nicklaus and his family. The Golden Bear Reserve Commemorative Series was inspired by the 50th anniversary of Jack’s first major championship. Each year for the next 18 years, Nicklaus wines will release a single limited-edition 1.5-liter bottle Napa Valley red blend to celebrate each one of Nicklaus’ major championships. Produced by Terlato Wine Group, each release will be limited to 1,000 bottles and each bottle will be packaged in an individual wooden display box and accompanied by a letter from Jack that includes his reflections on that major victory.
Dad not into golf? How about football!
Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2012 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 4 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “Tasted out of barrel, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon should be a significant step up over the 2011. Full-bodied, beautifully textured, concentrated and rich, with high, yet sweet tannin, it offers up notions of cassis, cedar, cherry blossom and lead pencil shavings in its pure, sexy personality. Given the texture and concentration, it should drink reasonably well on release, yet evolve for two decades. Chris Figgins and Drew Bledsoe continue to release a blockbuster Cabernet under their Doubleback label.” WA
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:
For the Mid-West, East, and South during the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments that would normally travel four or more business days to their destination.
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.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Arriving Late June
Domaine Simon Bize et Fils Les Champlains Bourgogne Blanc 2012 750ML ($34.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 87-89 points “The 2012 Bourgogne Blanc Les Champlains comes from vines located adjacent to “Les Perrieres” and contains 20% Pinot Beurot. It has a simple nose with citrus fruit and grass clippings that is missing just a little vigor at present. The palate is well-balanced, more complex than the nose suggests with touches of dried apricot and honeycomb towards the composed finish. Very pretty.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Simon Bize et Fils Savigny-les-Beaune Blanc 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2012 Savigny-les-Beaune Village is a blend of three parcels. It takes a little encouragement, but offers attractive aromas of shaved almond and a touch of smoke with time. The palate has a pleasant fatness on the entry and a touch of lemongrass on the tip of the tongue. It glides towards the finish, maintaining fine weight and presence. This should drink well for around 5-6 years after bottling.” WA
Domaine Simon Bize et Fils Savigny-les-Beaune Aux Grands Liards 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 90-92 points “The 2012 Savigny-les-Beaune Les Grands Liards comes from three plots at the foot of the slope with a higher proportion of clay towards the bottom. The nose is more opaque, denser than the Les Bourgeots with pure black currant and boysenberry scents that are very well-defined. The palate is very harmonious with supple, silky tannins on the entry that caress the mouth, dovetailing into a composed and quite succulent finish lent weight by the clayey soils. This has quality and substance, probably worth cellaring for 2 or 3 years.” WA
Gerard Mugneret Bourgogne Passetoutgrains 2012 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
“The 2012 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain is due to be bottled just before Christmas. It has a simple nose of raspberry and sloes. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannins, tart cherry fruit and decent weight on the finish. Fine.”–Wine Advocate
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $27
Gerard Mugneret Vosne-Romanee 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 90 points “Bright, moderately saturated red. Scented, inviting aromas of red raspberry, flowers and spices. Concentrated, suave and sweet; in a plumper style than the young 2013 and a bit less vibrant but quite long on the aftertaste. This will need at least a few years to absorb some of its building tannins.” ST
Domaine Gerard Mugneret Les Boudots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94-95 points “The 2012 Nuits Saint Georges 1er Cru Les Boudots has a really quite wonderful, effervescent bouquet that is immensely pure and refined, offering superb mineralite and tension. The palate is very fresh on the entry with concentrated pure sorbet-infused red fruit that contain superb tension and vibrant on the finish, leaving the mouth tingling. This could be one of the finest Nuits Saint Georges 2012s on the market.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $129
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Case of Vinsanity Has Spread!
We offer over 80 diverse, deeply discounted case prices, such as:
WASHINGTON
Case- 12 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay, Columbia Valley 2012 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 1 case available (that’s only $8.25/bottle!)
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay, Columbia Valley 2012 750ML ($11.95) $9.90 special, 34 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points “Silky and seductive, with pear and spicy grapefruit flavors on a taut, polished frame, lingering with intensity and brightness on the glowing finish. Impressive for the price. Drink now.” WS
CALIFORNIA
Case-12 Atalon Pauline’s Cuvee, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($359.95) $199 special, 9 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Atalon Pauline’s Cuvee, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This Merlot-based blend is a huge success. It’s a big, tannic, tight wine, packed to bursting with black cherry liqueur, cola and spice flavors. Yet it maintains an exciting balance, with the tension between acids, tannins and oak in equilibrium. Seems like it wants 5-6 years in the cellar to let it throw some tannins and mellow.” WE
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $28
Case-12 Girard Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Girard Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 5 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points “Loaded with ripe, jammy fruit, this has just enough structure to stay light-footed, with black cherry, toasty oak and spice aromas. Drink now through 2019.” WS
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Case-12 Domaine des Heritiers du Comte Lafon Macon-Uchizy Les Maranches 2011 750ML ($399.95) $328 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $27.33/bottle!)
Domaine des Heritiers du Comte Lafon Macon-Uchizy Les Maranches 2011 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2011 Macon-Uchizy Les Maranches has a tightly wound bouquet with lovely limestone and citrus scents, touches of dried flowers emerging with time. The palate is very well-balanced with fine tannins, a fresh elegant mid-palate with lovely poise toward the precise finish.” WA
FRANCE-RHONE
Case-12 Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau 2012 750ML ($899.95) $679 special, 4 cases available (that’s only $56.58/bottle!)
Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau 2012 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Rock-solid, with a hefty core of fig, blackberry and black cherry fruit, wrapped in chestnut and tobacco leaf notes and carrying through a lavender- and tar-framed finish. Dense and grippy, showing a slightly old-school shading. Should cellar well. Best from 2016 through 2030.” WS
Robert Parker 93-95 points “The top wine of the estate, the 2012 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape (which is always a blend of 65% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault and other grapes, from 65-year-old vines) is a classic example of the cuvee and possesses gorgeous aromatics (kirsch, garrigue, big minerality and background meatiness), medium to full-bodied richness and a firm, tannic spine. As is common, it will require a handful of years in the cellar to come around and have 15+ years of longevity. Drink 2016-2027.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $81
ITALY
Giordano Lombardo Vigne di San Martino, Gavi del Comune di Gavi DOCG 2014 ($17.95) $14 special
Importer note “Made from hand-selected Cortese grapes that were grown in volcanic limestone and argillaceous marl. The grapes are pressed whole and left to macerate on their skins for a short period of time. The juice sits on the fine less for a duration of three months before resting in the bottle for three months. What results is a wine that bears the intense fragrances and characteristic flavors of the Gavi terroir.”
SPAIN
Case-12 Bernabeleva Camino de Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2013 750ML ($179.95) $129 special, 9 cases available (that’s only $10.75/bottle!)
Bernabeleva Camino de Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2013 750ML ($16.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles available
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!
Case-12 Bodegas Castano Solanera Vinas Viejas, Yecla 2012 750ML ($219.95) $179 special, 4 cases available (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Bodegas Castano Solanera Vinas Viejas, Yecla 2012 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 19 bottles available
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
Case-12 Alvear Pedro Ximenez de Anada, Montilla-Moriles 2011 375ML ($999.95) $479 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $39.92/bottle!)
Alvear Pedro Ximenez de Anada, Montilla-Moriles 2011 375ML ($79.95) $47 special, 26 half-bottles available
Robert Parker 100 points “Alvear’s 2011 Pedro Ximenez de Anada is the most amazing Pedro Ximenez I have ever tasted. It may also be one of the first to be vintage-dated. The grapes were hand-harvested in September, then allowed to dry in the sunshine until they began fermentation, which is ultimately arrested by the addition of spirits. The wine spent six months in large American oak prior to being bottled. It is an amazing effort that looks like molasses. Notes of macerated figs, chocolate and caramelized tropical fruits emerge from this full-bodied, unctuously-textured wine. While sweet, it has enough acidity to balance out its richness. This astonishing 2011 Pedro Ximenez will last as long as any reader of this newsletter.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $54.99
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Tis The Season & New Reviews are the Reason
Rosé!
M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche Rosé, Loire 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “Vivid orange-pink. Potent red berry and floral scents are complemented by suggestions of white pepper and musky herbs. Chewy, focused and dry on the palate, offering bitter cherry and redcurrant flavors that put on weight with air. Shows very good energy and punch on the clinging finish, leaving a subtle mineral note behind.” JR
Domaine Charvin Cotes du Rhone Rosé, Rhone 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points “Pale pink. Fresh red berries and flowers on the fragrant nose, with a hint of white pepper adding lift. Supple and broad on entry, then more taut in the mid-palate, offering redcurrant and bitter cherry flavors and a touch of orange pith. Closes on a tangy, slightly rigid citrus zest note, with good cut.” JR
Domaine Saint Aix Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Aix Rosé, Provence 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points “Light, bright pink. Ripe red berries and tangerine on the deeply scented nose and in the mouth. Round and fleshy, with a hint of white pepper adding back-end lift and bite. Closes supple, broad and gently spicy, with good cling and a touch of succulent herbs.” JR
Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Terre de Maimbray Rosé, Loire 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 33 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Brilliant orange-pink. Minerally and focused on the nose, displaying nervy red berry and citrus fruit qualities and a hint of tarragon. Dry and energetic in the mouth, offering juicy strawberry and tangerine flavors that flesh out with air. Finishes stony and long, leaving bitter berry skin and a suave floral note behind.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Les Grands Bois Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Les Trois Soeurs Rosé2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points “Light, lurid pink. Dried red berries and orange pith on the incisive, spice-accented nose. Dry and refreshingly bitter, offering tangy redcurrant and pomegranate flavors and a subtle hint of tarragon. Finishes dry and tense, with a building mineral note and good tangy persistence.” JR
Bodegas Muga Rosado, Rioja DOCa 2014 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special, 22 bottles available
Wine Advocate 88 points “The rosé from Muga called simply 2014 Rosado is a classical “clarete” from the Rioja Alta, produced with Garnacha and Viura and in 2014, exceptionally, a pinch of Mazuelo (Cariñena) all harvested at the same time. The full clusters are pressed directly and the different musts are blended and then put to ferment in well-seasoned oak vats where it matures in contact with the lees for some four months. It’s a pale, salmon-colored wine with a clean, focused nose and a light palate, that is pleasant, fresh and easy to drink. Bring out those lamb chops!” WA
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
San Fereolo
The Benchmark for Dogliani
Arriving in July 2015
Located immediately south of Barolo in the Langhe is the San Fereolo estate, acquired by Nicoletta Bocca in 1992. She has since converted the estate to biodynamic (certified by Demeter) and practices a minimalist approach: hand-harvesting grapes to ferment with natural yeasts and no additives. The Dogliani DOCG is home to some of Piedmont’s greatest Dolcetto vineyards, and thus the world’s greatest, and the majority of her 12 acre estate is in the zone. Dolcetto is a long-overlooked varietal, often produced in a fruity, easy-drinking style meant for immediate consumption. Nicoletta takes it more seriously, releasing wines aged for at least 7 years from vines ranging in age from 79-37 years old. The wines are characteristic of the wider Piedmontese style: showing austerity, tannic structure, polish and elegance.
San Fereolo Wines Arriving in July
San Fereolo Valdiba, Dolcetto di Dogliani DOCG 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 pre-arrival special
Importer note “A youthful expression of the Dogliani DOCG, the ‘Valdiba’ is made all in steel cuve, which shows in the fresh brightness of the wine. Nicoletta considers this to be classical Dolcetto, striking all of the notes one would expect from the variety, with a confident tannic backbone.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
San Fereolo ‘Il Provinciale’ Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont 2009 750ML ($37.95) $27 pre-arrival special
Importer note “While Dolcetto rules the estate, we are offered a glimpse of how the estate’s style would translate to its northern Barolo neighbor through this wine. Half of the fruit comes of a friend’s prime holding in Serralunga d’Alba while the balance is sourced from an estate parcel is Dogliani. The long 30-day maceration in large vat allows for all of the character of the terroir to present itself, and the result is a wine of power and depth.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $34.99
San Fereolo ‘Austri’ Langhe Rosso – Multi-vintage Review
“While much of the Piemonte eagerly pushes the greatest wines to market as soon as they are in bottle, ‘Austri’ is one of two cuvees from San Fereolo that offer a patient alternative. A study in terroir, cepage, and evolution, we were stunned by the beautiful consistency when we first tasted through a vertical of this wine. Generally 95% Barbera and 5% Nebbiolo, this ranks among the greatest expressions of Berbera we have experienced. Nicoletta treats the wine with a high degree of respects, allowing it to evolve through three years of elevage in large, neutral oak, followed by another three to four years in bottle. The current release is the 2007, though we are fortunate to be able to offer a selection of back-vintages as well.”– Importer note
San Fereolo ‘Austri’ Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2001 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
San Fereolo ‘Austri’ Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2005 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
San Fereolo ‘Austri’ Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2007 750ML ($31.95) $27 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
San Fereolo Dolcetto di Dogliani Superiore DOCG – Multi-Vintage Review
“The most important wine of the estate. The Dolcetto for the top wine is sourced from parcels found in prime positions as well as the oldest vines of the estate. The seven-year wait from harvest to release reflects the important of the San Fereolo to Nicoletta, who carefully tends the wine through its three years in large barrel before a 3-4 year hibernation in the bottle cellar. Our tasting of each vintage from 2001 to 2008 revealed a consistent vein of dense, warm fruit, which spoke of the Langhe source. Fresh mineral notes, mint, licorice and savory elements permeated each expression, while a lively freshness was alive in every wine, including the 14-year old 2001 vintage. As with the Austri, the 2007 is the current release, and we are pleased to be able to source multiple back vintages.” — Importer Note
San Fereolo Dolcetto di Dogliani Superiore DOCG, Piedmont 2001 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
San Fereolo Dolcetto di Dogliani Superiore DOCG, Piedmont 2005 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
San Fereolo Dolcetto di Dogliani Superiore DOCG, Piedmont 2007 750ML ($34.95) $28 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $34.99
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Saint Cosme
Gigondas New Releases Arriving Late July
The Saint Cosme estate is located in the heart of Gigondas in the Southern Rhone. The Chateau at the center of estate was built in the 16th century and is surrounded by 37 acres of old-vine vineyard land. It is no surprise that the vines average an impressive 60 years in age, coming from an estate that was founded in 1490 and saw 14 successive generations of the Barruol family manage it. The estate is in the middle of two geological faults, resulting in a wide variety of soil types. The microclimate is quite cool for the region; grapes are usually harvested later than other estates in the area.
In 1995, Louis Barruol took over from his father, Henri. He takes a very active role in managing the vineyards, personally overseeing pruning, ripening and harvests. From the family-owned vineyards, Barruol produces several Gigondas wines. These wines are powerful and rich with a striking elegance. The Le Poste vineyard surrounds the estate’s chapel and was replanted by Louis’ father Henri in 1963. The vineyard was one the first purchased by the family in 1490 along with the estate. The soil is limestone yellow mall with many fossils. The winemaker writes that this vineyard makes the most feminine and elegant wine of the estate. Le Claux and the Hominis Fides vineyards were first recognized in 1902. Le Claux, planted in 1870, was scheduled to be ripped out in 1914 because the vines no longer produced large yields. The War and several deaths in the family prevented its destruction. The soil is yellow limestone clay and gravel. Now Le Claux is celebrated for its old vines that produce tiny, concentrated yields. It produces the most Burgundian character, with finesse and complexity. The Hominis Fides vineyard is composed of the oldest vines in the estate. It is made of sandy limestone soil that the winemaker believes help contribute to the fine tannins in the Grenache. It is their “most deep and enigmatic wine.”
Saint Cosme Gigondas Wines Arriving Late July
These are the only listings in the USA today!
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux 2013 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91-93 points “Vivid ruby. Deeply pitched dark berry and cherry pit scents open slowly, picking up hints of lavender, anise and allspice. Taut and sharply focused, with bitter cherry and boysenberry flavors given spine by juicy acidity. Shows excellent clarity and power on the long, youthfully tannic finish, with the cherry and floral notes echoing.” JR
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92-94 points “Opaque ruby. Complex smoke- and mineral-tinged dark berry aromas are complemented by a suave floral element and a hint of Asian spices. Fleshy, sweet and broad, offering intense blackberry and boysenberry flavors with sexy lavender pastille and spicecake flourishes. Puts on weight with air while maintaining vivacity and finishes smooth, broad and very long, with subtle tannins lending shape.” JR
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Poste 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92-94 points “Bright violet color. Explosive, lucid black raspberry and incense aromas are complicated by intense potpourri and star anise nuances. Spicy, focused and concentrated, offering sweet red and dark berry liqueur flavors and a touch of cola. Seamless, sappy and pure, with fine-grained tannins building slowly through a long floral finish.” JR
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Valbelle 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91-93 points “Brilliant ruby. An expansive, complex bouquet evokes fresh blackberry and boysenberry, lifted by a sexy floral topnote and a hint of incense. Silky, sweet and palate-caressing, with intense black and blue fruit flavors given spine by tangy acidity. This juicy, pure wine finishes with excellent clarity and smooth, building tannins.” JR
Saint Cosme New Releases Arriving Late June
Saint Cosme Condrieu 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 89-91 points “Starting with the white, his 2013 Condrieu is beautiful, and should be in the same league as his 2012. Classy, fresh and focused, with lots of pineapple and tangerine notes, it’s medium-bodied, laser focused and yet still has notable richness.” WA
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion 2013 750ML ($21.95) $17 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion 2013 ($249.95) $179 pre-arrival special (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 88-90 points “The 2013 Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albions is 50-60% Syrah and the rest Grenache and other permitted varieties. It exhibits classic Syrah character with its sweet dark fruits, pepper, wood smoke and crushed rock-like minerality. Medium to full-bodied, it bucks the vintage stereotype and has a rounded, supple texture, good concentration and plenty of length. Possibly outstanding, it should have a decade of longevity.” WA
Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage 2013 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 86-88 points “Starting off the 2013s, the 2013 Crozes Hermitage has a soft, forward style to go with attractive, chocolate-laced dark fruits and pepper. It has a soft underbelly and will be best drink in its youth.” WA
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph 2013 750ML ($37.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 88-90 points “A step up over the Crozes, the 2013 St Joseph is a pretty, elegant and finesse-driven effort that has lots of purple fruits, violets and spring-flower nuances, medium-bodied richness and terrific purity of fruit. It should drink well on release and have 7-8 years of longevity.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $33
Saint Cosme Cote Rotie 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 89-91 points “My favorite of the 2013s, the 2013 Cote Rotie, which comes all from the northern, more schist-influenced region, offers lots of minerality to go with notes of plum, violets and olive. Medium-bodied, elegant and seamless, with good ripeness and fine tannin, it will have 10-15 years of longevity.” WA
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Can’t Wait?
Saint Cosme Wines Available Here Now
Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 91 points “A wine that come all from estate vineyards (mostly Plan de Dieu and Cairanne) since 2008, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albions is mostly Grenache and Syrah, yet also includes a tiny amount of Clairette and other permitted varieties. It exhibits knockout notes of dark fruits, chocolate, smoked meats and pepper. This is followed by a ripe, textured and beautifully pure effort that has both richness and freshness. Drink it anytime over the coming 7-8 years.” WA
Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph 2012 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 1 bottle available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Warmed pain d’epices and moch notes lead the way, followed by melted black licorice, fig paste and macerated black currant fruit. Dark and fleshy through the finish, with a lively anise element adding contrast and lift. Best from 2015 through 2022. 125 cases imported.” WS
Stephen Tanzer 91-93 points “(all serine): Dark purple. Vibrant black and blue fruit aromas are complicated by olive, violet, black tea and smoky minerals. Juicy and precise on entry, then fleshier in the mid-palate, offering intense, mouthcoating cassis and blueberry flavors given spine by tangy acidity. Shows excellent clarity on the sweet, seamless, very persistent finish.” ST
Saint Cosme Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2011 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special, 17 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “A wine I missed getting into the first southern Rhone report (Issue 215), the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape showed brilliantly from bottle. Loaded with Provencal character, it has tons of garrigue, licorice, ground pepper and sweet dark fruit, full-bodied richness and a sexy, seamless profile. I don’t think it will be the longest lived Chateauneuf du Pape out there, but it will dish out plenty of pleasure over the coming 7-8 years at least.” WA
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Valbelle 2012 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 26 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “A broad, muscular style, with red and black currant paste flavors, bolstered by a graphite underpinning. Bittersweet cocoa, bay leaf and smoldering tobacco accents lurk in the background, adding extra bass to the finish. This offers loads of grip, but needs time to settle down. Best from 2016 through 2030. 34 cases imported.” WS
Wine Advocate 94 points “One of the more limited production releases, the 2012 Gigondas Cuvee Valbelle (which comes from a blend of terroirs) exhibits fabulous cassis, cocoa dusted meat, dried herbs, soy sauce and Asian spice-box-like aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, deep, concentrated and structured, it’s a powerhouse of a Gigondas that will have 15+ years of evolution.” WA
Saint Cosme Cote Rotie 2012 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 12 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92-94 points “(made from whole-cluster serine grown in the Cote Brune and aged in a 50/50 combination of new and one-year-old barriques): Brilliant ruby. Smoke-accented cassis and cherry-cola on the nose, with suave floral and Indian spice nuances adding an exotic touch. Sweet dark berry preserve and violet pastille flavors show very good depth, with a peppery, spicy quality emerging with air. In an elegant style, finishing smooth, sweet and very long.” ST
Wine Spectator 93 points “Energetic, with white pepper and alder notes framing a core of racy red currant, blackberry and black cherry fruit. Hints of bay and iron line the back end, where everything streamlines together for a lengthy finish. Approachable now, but could expand with cellaring. Best from 2015 through 2025.”
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Offers a dense core of black currant, fig and blackberry paste flavors, showing terrific cut and definition. A bright chalky minerality runs underneath, with pepper, charcoal and bay leaf notes on the sleek finish. Best from 2015 through 2028. 24 cases imported.”WS
Wine Advocate 93-96 points “Despite coming from sandy soils, the 2012 Gigondas Hominis Fides has a masculine, structured and almost burly profile. Underbrush, black raspberry, crushed rock, pepper and black licorice are just some of the notions here, and it hits the palate with full-bodied authority and richness. I expect it will flesh out nicely once in bottle, but it should still warrant 2-3 years in the cellar and have the capacity to keep for 20 years.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $107
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 96 points “Probably my favorite of the single vineyard releases (although, truthfully, I find the quality among the three almost indistinguishable), the 2012 Gigondas Le Claux has beautiful minerality to go with notions of black fruits, smoked herbs, graphite and liquid violets. A big, full-bodied Gigondas, it never puts a foot wrong, has building, polished tannin and a blockbuster finish that stays focused. Give it a couple years and enjoy bottles through 2032.” WA
Wine Spectator 95 points “This has a gorgeous beam of pomegranate, red currant and damson plum fruit, coiled tightly for now. A snap of red licorice adds lift before tangy sanguine, iron, pepper and bay leaf notes emerge on the finish. Exhibits terrific cut and length. Best from 2015 through 2025. 72 cases imported.”WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $113