In Today’s Newsletter:
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Staff Pick: Keller’s Not-GG
It Follows – Sequitur Extends Mike Etzel’s Legacy
Trending
New Austrian Reviews
Collector’s Corner
Gaja: Piedmont Icon
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Highlights from New Wines at Vinopolis
Is there a better wine made in Chateauneuf every year? Janasse comes through in a big way (again).
Domaine de la Janasse Cuvee Vieilles Vignes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is another killer effort from this estate. Coming from the La Janasse and La Crau lieux-dits and brought up in foudre, its deep purple color is followed by blockbuster notes of crème de cassis, blackberries, chocolate, graphite, and earthy, rocky, mineral-like nuances. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a ripe, powerful yet balanced style and a great finish. A classic example of this cuvée. it’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for two decades or more.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes derives from parcels planted on classic clay and galets roulés soils. It’s 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other varieties. Tight, intense, even clenched, it’s in need of several years’ cellaring before it becomes truly enjoyable to drink. For now, those gorgeous black cherries are restrained behind a firm wall of tannins. Full-bodied and rich, this is ripe, it just requires patience.-JC”
Staff Pick
Keller’s Not-GG
It Follows
Sequitur Extends Mike Etzel’s Beaux Freres Legacy
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Staff Pick: Keller’s Not-GG
It Follows – Sequitur Extends Mike Etzel’s Legacy
Trending
New Austrian Reviews
Collector’s Corner
Gaja: Piedmont Icon
New Weekend – New Arrivals
Highlights from New Wines at Vinopolis
The counterpoint to the best-selling Chard, this Cabernet over delivers on so many levels.
The Calling Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2016 750ML ($34.95) $19.50 special
Case-12 The Calling Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2016 750ML ($359.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Winery Note “This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon presents blackberry and plum aromatics typical of the Alexander Valley. On the palate, the rich fruit is complemented by accents of sweet tobacco, vanilla, chocolate, and mocha. The elegant tannins, oak structure and balanced acidity will age this wine for 10-12 years.”
The Calling Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2016 750ML ($34.95) $19.50 special
Case-12 The Calling Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2016 750ML ($359.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Winery Note “This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon presents blackberry and plum aromatics typical of the Alexander Valley. On the palate, the rich fruit is complemented by accents of sweet tobacco, vanilla, chocolate, and mocha. The elegant tannins, oak structure and balanced acidity will age this wine for 10-12 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.99
The average price is $28
The next best price is $24.99
The average price is $28
This wine has an aristocratic bearing and a fantastic price—the lowest in the country.
Domaine Comte Abbatucci Ajaccio Faustine Blanc, Corsica 2017 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Summing up Jean-Charles Abbatucci’s contagious energy in just a few lines is virtually impossible. The best way to experience it is to stand in his vineyards in central Corsica and feel it radiate through your body from the ground up. Luckily, that energy finds its way into every bottle he makes, and this gentle, breezy white from old-vine Vermentinu delivers it without compromise—each sip is like a gust of warm Mediterranean air flooding your senses with a perfume of flowers and wild maquis.”
Domaine Comte Abbatucci Ajaccio Faustine Blanc, Corsica 2017 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Summing up Jean-Charles Abbatucci’s contagious energy in just a few lines is virtually impossible. The best way to experience it is to stand in his vineyards in central Corsica and feel it radiate through your body from the ground up. Luckily, that energy finds its way into every bottle he makes, and this gentle, breezy white from old-vine Vermentinu delivers it without compromise—each sip is like a gust of warm Mediterranean air flooding your senses with a perfume of flowers and wild maquis.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $42
The average listed price is $42
Is there a better wine made in Chateauneuf every year? Janasse comes through in a big way (again).
Domaine de la Janasse Cuvee Vieilles Vignes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is another killer effort from this estate. Coming from the La Janasse and La Crau lieux-dits and brought up in foudre, its deep purple color is followed by blockbuster notes of crème de cassis, blackberries, chocolate, graphite, and earthy, rocky, mineral-like nuances. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a ripe, powerful yet balanced style and a great finish. A classic example of this cuvée. it’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for two decades or more.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes derives from parcels planted on classic clay and galets roulés soils. It’s 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other varieties. Tight, intense, even clenched, it’s in need of several years’ cellaring before it becomes truly enjoyable to drink. For now, those gorgeous black cherries are restrained behind a firm wall of tannins. Full-bodied and rich, this is ripe, it just requires patience.-JC”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $95
The 2016 sold out at $119
The average listed price is $95
The 2016 sold out at $119
Staff Pick
Keller’s Not-GG
Andy:
In the wine world, I have met many clients whose sole purpose was to find the best; those Unicorns in cellars spread throughout the globe. Price is usually no object, and the occasion for opening a special bottle could be as arbitrary as “it’s Tuesday night”. God bless them for knowing what they wanted, and being willing to share. I would never go to a Tuesday night dinner empty-handed, and one of my favorite producers for these occasions is Weingut Keller. The bottle of choice would be the RR when I could get my hands on it. Peeling back the layers on this wine is incredibly fun. The wine is slightly richer than counterparts found further north in the Mosel, and is usually finished fermenting with a small amount of RS adding to that breadth. Beyond the usual lime and jasmine, you can find freshly turned soil, smoke, and rich herbs. As it opens up, the expression of the tiny site makes itself clear – to compare this to the exceptional, regular Kirchspiel GG is a masterclass in terroir. The wine sings with dinner and leaves your palate clean and ready to enjoy a second bottle from the cellar. Drinking these young can be a very tempting prospect, and while the ultimate goal is to lay these down, you won’t be heartbroken if you dip into these now.
Even my friends who don’t open bottles of white wine unless it says “Montrachet” somewhere on the label find something to love in these gorgeous bottles from Keller. It’s a ringer bottle for those who want a bottle that is punching way above its price point. Get it while you can, knowing that there is a very small amount available.
In Stock Now:
Weingut Keller Kirchspiel RR Riesling, Rheinhessen 2018 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
VinopolNote: Keller’s “RR” bottling is made from the Westhofener Kirchspiel—the vineyard that gives his legendary Kirchspiel GG bottling. Where the GG is made from a plot of old vines on limestone, this comes from vines planted on volcanic soils, which give the wine a bit more power and texture. This wine is generally fermented down to levels of sugar barely above legally dry and the combination of fruit and vibrancy is truly electric. This might be the best value in the Keller lineup—GG quality for 60% off.
In the wine world, I have met many clients whose sole purpose was to find the best; those Unicorns in cellars spread throughout the globe. Price is usually no object, and the occasion for opening a special bottle could be as arbitrary as “it’s Tuesday night”. God bless them for knowing what they wanted, and being willing to share. I would never go to a Tuesday night dinner empty-handed, and one of my favorite producers for these occasions is Weingut Keller. The bottle of choice would be the RR when I could get my hands on it. Peeling back the layers on this wine is incredibly fun. The wine is slightly richer than counterparts found further north in the Mosel, and is usually finished fermenting with a small amount of RS adding to that breadth. Beyond the usual lime and jasmine, you can find freshly turned soil, smoke, and rich herbs. As it opens up, the expression of the tiny site makes itself clear – to compare this to the exceptional, regular Kirchspiel GG is a masterclass in terroir. The wine sings with dinner and leaves your palate clean and ready to enjoy a second bottle from the cellar. Drinking these young can be a very tempting prospect, and while the ultimate goal is to lay these down, you won’t be heartbroken if you dip into these now.
Even my friends who don’t open bottles of white wine unless it says “Montrachet” somewhere on the label find something to love in these gorgeous bottles from Keller. It’s a ringer bottle for those who want a bottle that is punching way above its price point. Get it while you can, knowing that there is a very small amount available.
In Stock Now:
Weingut Keller Kirchspiel RR Riesling, Rheinhessen 2018 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
VinopolNote: Keller’s “RR” bottling is made from the Westhofener Kirchspiel—the vineyard that gives his legendary Kirchspiel GG bottling. Where the GG is made from a plot of old vines on limestone, this comes from vines planted on volcanic soils, which give the wine a bit more power and texture. This wine is generally fermented down to levels of sugar barely above legally dry and the combination of fruit and vibrancy is truly electric. This might be the best value in the Keller lineup—GG quality for 60% off.
It Follows
Sequitur Extends Mike Etzel’s Beaux Freres Legacy
Mike Etzel, the founder and winemaker of Sequitur, is a living legend in the Willamette Valley. He co-founded Beaux Freres in the late 80’s and was the winemaker there until recently passing the duties to his son. Never one to rest on his laurels or stay still, though, he began planting a vineyard adjacent to Beaux Freres in 2010—a project that became what we know as Sequitur.
It’s helpful to think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Freres over the decades. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Freres “Upper Terrace” but is planted to a wider array of clones at tighter spacing. It’s been farmed biodynamically since the beginning and is sheltered with Douglas Fir—in short, it’s the fully realized vision of a man who’s helped define Willamette Valley Pinot.
The winemaking style is exactly what you’d expect—these are wines that are made by the same hand that delivered so many high scores to Beaux Freres (though his son, Mikey, is the day-to-day winemaker). Big, powerful and bold, these nevertheless have energy and grace that we think comes from the extra-attentive farming and unique clonal selection in the vineyard. In short order, they’ve established themselves as one of the very best producers in the Willamette Valley and deserve your attention as such.
In Stock Now:
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2015 Sequitur Chardonnay delivers toasted almonds, baker’s yeast, fresh ginger and coriander seed on the nose with a core of grapefruit, white peaches and spiced apples. Light to medium-bodied, it gives a great intensity of savory flavor layers intermingled with stone fruit and citrus notions, finishing long with great freshness and mineral notes.”
It’s helpful to think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Freres over the decades. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Freres “Upper Terrace” but is planted to a wider array of clones at tighter spacing. It’s been farmed biodynamically since the beginning and is sheltered with Douglas Fir—in short, it’s the fully realized vision of a man who’s helped define Willamette Valley Pinot.
The winemaking style is exactly what you’d expect—these are wines that are made by the same hand that delivered so many high scores to Beaux Freres (though his son, Mikey, is the day-to-day winemaker). Big, powerful and bold, these nevertheless have energy and grace that we think comes from the extra-attentive farming and unique clonal selection in the vineyard. In short order, they’ve established themselves as one of the very best producers in the Willamette Valley and deserve your attention as such.
In Stock Now:
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2015 Sequitur Chardonnay delivers toasted almonds, baker’s yeast, fresh ginger and coriander seed on the nose with a core of grapefruit, white peaches and spiced apples. Light to medium-bodied, it gives a great intensity of savory flavor layers intermingled with stone fruit and citrus notions, finishing long with great freshness and mineral notes.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($89.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2016 Sequitur Chardonnay has a gregarious nose of spiced, baked yellow apples and warm pineapple with notes of toast, honey, hazelnut and hay. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the mouth with warm orchard and tropical fruits accented by nuances of baking spice, nuts and honey, with a touch of creaminess to the texture, juicy acidity and a long, mineral-laced finish. 85 cases produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($119.95) $79 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points “Limpid ruby-red. Smoky, mineral-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry cola and incense carry a strong spicecake overtone. Stains the palate with sappy red berry liqueur, spicecake and floral pastille flavors that are lifted and given definition and tension by juicy acidity. At once rich and nervy, with no excess fat but showing excellent depth and intensity of flavor. Finishes with sexy notes of candied violet and smoky Indian spices and superb, gently tannic persistence. This wine’s Beaux Freres bloodline is very clear to see.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Broad and spicy, open-textured and generous, with ripe plum and currant flavors, shaded by pepper, sage and coffee notes as the finish sails past fine-grained tannins. Completely harmonious and made to age. Drink now through 2024.”
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points “Limpid ruby-red. Smoky, mineral-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry cola and incense carry a strong spicecake overtone. Stains the palate with sappy red berry liqueur, spicecake and floral pastille flavors that are lifted and given definition and tension by juicy acidity. At once rich and nervy, with no excess fat but showing excellent depth and intensity of flavor. Finishes with sexy notes of candied violet and smoky Indian spices and superb, gently tannic persistence. This wine’s Beaux Freres bloodline is very clear to see.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Broad and spicy, open-textured and generous, with ripe plum and currant flavors, shaded by pepper, sage and coffee notes as the finish sails past fine-grained tannins. Completely harmonious and made to age. Drink now through 2024.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $100
The average price is $100
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($119.95) $79 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Deep brilliant red. A strikingly complex bouquet evokes ripe, mineral-accented red berries, cherry cola, vanilla, five-spice powder and sandalwood. Alluringly sweet, seamless and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry liqueur, spicecake and lavender pastille flavors that are given spine and lift by a core of juicy acidity. Delivers a compelling blend of power and delicacy and finishes extremely long and smooth; rounded tannins frame the lingering red fruit preserve notes.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “Pale to medium ruby purple in color, the 2015 Sequitur Pinot Noir has a very provocative nose of Bing cherries and cranberries over a core of red roses, game, yeast extract and underbrush. Medium-bodied, with wonderful energy and freshness, it has a lively backbone and long finish paved with very fine, ripe tannins.”
Winery note “Sequitur 2015 Pinot Noir “Two fold,” a collaboration between our Mother, the earth, those of us who “play” in the vineyard and winery, and you, the wine lover.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $100
The average price is $100
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($119.95) $79 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Glimmering red. A hugely aromatic bouquet evokes fresh red fruits, Asian spices and potpourri, along with a bright mineral overtone and a touch of smokiness. Juicy, seamless and precise on the palate, offering potent, mineral-laced raspberry preserve, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen and spread out steadily on the back half. Delivers a compelling blend of power and finesse and finishes with silky tannins, outstanding clarity and floral- and mineral-driven persistence.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2016 Sequitur Pinot Noir has a lovely, open nose of black and red cherries and blackberries with notions of wood smoke, turned earth, autumn leaves, cardamom and potpourri. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with ripe black and red fruits with wonderful earthy/spicy accents, very fine, grainy tannins and mouthwatering acidity, finishing long with spice and floral layers. 480 cases produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $89.99
The next best price is $89.99
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($119.95) $79 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Lurid red. Spice-tinged blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola, incense and smoky minerals. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry and spicecake flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and mocha that build with air. Concentrated but also vibrant and precise in style, delivering superb finishing cut, well-knit tannins and impressive, fruit-driven persistence. (30% new French oak).”
Nick Stock-jamessuckling .com 96 points “Beautifully deep, blueberries and plums on offer with notes of fresh violets and moist, fresh-tilled earth. This is full of life and very pure. The palate has focused and fresh tannins that sit in very vibrant style with a deep push of concentrated blue fruit, holding the finish in superb style. So fresh and long, this will age well. Drink across the next decade or more.”
Winery Note “TOTALITY—During the growing season of 2017, Oregon was treated to a total solar eclipse, where the moon passed exactly between the earth and the sun. Day turned to night, the temperature dropped and the farm animals were disoriented. The moment of awe was tempered with a deep sense of vulnerability, as we witnessed our world bow down to the power of nature. May this 2017 vintage seeped in “totality,” bring you a fresh perspective.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Lurid red. Spice-tinged blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola, incense and smoky minerals. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry and spicecake flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and mocha that build with air. Concentrated but also vibrant and precise in style, delivering superb finishing cut, well-knit tannins and impressive, fruit-driven persistence. (30% new French oak).”
Nick Stock-jamessuckling .com 96 points “Beautifully deep, blueberries and plums on offer with notes of fresh violets and moist, fresh-tilled earth. This is full of life and very pure. The palate has focused and fresh tannins that sit in very vibrant style with a deep push of concentrated blue fruit, holding the finish in superb style. So fresh and long, this will age well. Drink across the next decade or more.”
Winery Note “TOTALITY—During the growing season of 2017, Oregon was treated to a total solar eclipse, where the moon passed exactly between the earth and the sun. Day turned to night, the temperature dropped and the farm animals were disoriented. The moment of awe was tempered with a deep sense of vulnerability, as we witnessed our world bow down to the power of nature. May this 2017 vintage seeped in “totality,” bring you a fresh perspective.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Trending
A special restaurant reserve bottling of the Willamette Valley Pinot Noir that is so popular, we can barely keep it in stock!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-6 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($129.95) $99 special (that’s only $16.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($219.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-6 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($129.95) $99 special (that’s only $16.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($219.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Belle Pente Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95 points “Deep, bright-rimmed red. A highly complex bouquet evokes red berry preserve and cherry aromas, along with sexy Asian spice, rose oil and smoky mineral accents. Shows impressive delineation on the palate, offering concentrated, spice-tinged red fruit liqueur, cola and spicecake flavors that pick up a strong floral pastille nuance with air. Finishes extremely long and pure, with fine-grained tannins providing shape and grip to lingering raspberry and bitter chocolate notes.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $54.99
The average listed price is $57
Domaine Lafage Bastide Miraflors, IGP Cotes Catalanes 2017 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Case-12 Domaine Lafage Bastide Miraflors, IGP Cotes Catalanes 2017 750ML ($249.95) $175 special (that’s only $14.58/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “A blend of 74% Syrah and 26% Grenache that was brought in a mix of tank and used barrels, the 2017 Bastide Miraflors has a fabulous minerality as well as terrific kirsch, black raspberry, wild fennel, white pepper, and hints of black licorice aromas and flavors. Pure, medium to full-bodied, silky, and seamless on the palate, it’s perfectly balanced, and way over-delivers. Drink it over the coming 2-3 years.”
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2017 Cotes du Roussillon Bastide Miraflors is a 70-30 blend of Syrah and Grenache, aged in a combination of tanks and barriques. It has some Ribena-like aromas, then delivers waves of ripe cassis and blackberries. Full-bodied and concentrated, it remains fresh and streamlined on the palate, finishing in a soft flurry of dusty tannins.”
Black Slate Porrera, Priorat DOCa 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Black Slate Porrera, Priorat DOCa 2016 750ML ($299.95) $239 special (that’s only $19.92/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2016 Black Slate Porrera comes from a project of importer Eric Solomon focusing on the specific villages in the Priorat. The 2016 is 60% Grenache and 40% Carignan that was mostly destemmed and spent a full year in used barrels. Thrilling blue fruits, tar, rose petals, and a smoky, marine, iodine-like character all emerge from this full-bodied effort that opens up nicely with time in the glass. Tasting like it cost three times the price, it picks up more minerality with time in the glass, has beautiful balance, and great purity of fruit. It would be hard to find a better value. Drink bottles over the coming 3-5 years.”
Veglio Michelino & Figlio Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($39.95) Was $28, Now $24 Subscriber Special
James Suckling 92 points “Some swanky, glossy oak adds toffee aromas to the ripe red cherries. Plenty of vanilla here, too. The palate delivers a fullish and round impression with plenty of oak again in the mix. Praline and ripe red cherries in abundance here. Try from 2022.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina 2019 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina 2019 750ML ($319.95) $229 pre-arrival special (that’s only $/bottle!)
Case-12 Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina 2019 750ML ($319.95) $229 pre-arrival special (that’s only $/bottle!)
New Austrian Reviews
“the time to dedicate oneself to these wines is perfect. 2018 is not a complicated vintage but a rather hedonistic one that, for most part, already tastes good now and only asks for patience in exceptional cases. Even the often-hesitant Rieslings tend to be open-minded, which is something the Grüner Veltliner was born with anyway.” –Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
Weingut Leo Alzinger Durnstein Gruner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau 2018 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “From sandy-gravelly soils between the villages, the 2018 Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Dürnstein offers a clear, fresh and even coolish nose of white seed fruits, ripe melons and pebbly stones. The palate is lithe, elegant and fresh, and the white fruit flavors lead to a lovely bitter and well-structured, crispy finish. Stunning.”
Weingut Leo Alzinger Loibner Steinertal Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2018 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “From the parcels below the Riesling, grown on weathered bedrock (iron-rich gneiss) and benefiting from descending air currents of the creek, the 2018 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Ried Steinertal offers a coolish, fascinating, precise and flinty bouquet of white fruits. Lush and intense on the palate, this is a very intense and mineral but also sensual Veltliner that pleases hedonists as well as intellectuals. The wine has vivacious acidity, remarkable finesse and a long and sustainable finish with a lot of salt and tension. One of the finest Veltliners that has been produced in Lower Austria in 2018.”
Weingut Leo Alzinger Durnstein Gruner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau 2018 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “From sandy-gravelly soils between the villages, the 2018 Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Dürnstein offers a clear, fresh and even coolish nose of white seed fruits, ripe melons and pebbly stones. The palate is lithe, elegant and fresh, and the white fruit flavors lead to a lovely bitter and well-structured, crispy finish. Stunning.”
Weingut Leo Alzinger Loibner Steinertal Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2018 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “From the parcels below the Riesling, grown on weathered bedrock (iron-rich gneiss) and benefiting from descending air currents of the creek, the 2018 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Ried Steinertal offers a coolish, fascinating, precise and flinty bouquet of white fruits. Lush and intense on the palate, this is a very intense and mineral but also sensual Veltliner that pleases hedonists as well as intellectuals. The wine has vivacious acidity, remarkable finesse and a long and sustainable finish with a lot of salt and tension. One of the finest Veltliners that has been produced in Lower Austria in 2018.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Weingut Leo Alzinger Hollerin Riesling Smaragd, Wachau 2018 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2018 Riesling Smaragd Ried Hollerin is the most charming, fruity and powerful Riesling of the domain. From the vineyard looking onto the coolest part of the Kellerberg and cultivated on large terraces with deeper soils, the 2018 opens with an intensely fruity and only slightly flinty nose. Rich, round and massive but still elegant, with delicate tannins and pretty sweetish stone fruit, this is the dry dessert wine of Leo Alzinger. Tasted at the domain in September 2019.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Weingut Leo Alzinger Ried Hohereck Riesling Smaragd, Wachau 2018 750ML ($64.95) $49 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 91+ points “From a very small cru between Hollerin and Loibenberg and cultivated in pretty shallow soils, the 2018 Riesling Smaragd Ried Höhereck is concentrated and warm on the nose, with dried white fruit aromas intermixed with lovely herbal and stony aromas. Rich and concentrated on the lush and fleshy palate, this is a full-bodied, dense and firmly structured Riesling that combines warmth and ripeness with the coolish mineral drive of the terroir. The acidity is remarkably fresh, and the wine develops a long, tensioned finish that is still a bit drying. Keep for three or so years before drinking.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Schloss Gobelsburg Gruner Veltliner, Kamptal DAC 2018 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “The 2018 Gobelsburg Kamptal Grüner Veltliner offers a clear and elegant, Kamptal-coolish nose of fully ripe fruits. Rather lithe more than medium-bodied on the palate, this is an elegant and fruity, stimulatingly salty and refreshing white with fine grip on the finish. Tasted at the domain in September 2019.”
Weingut Bernhard Ott ‘Der Ott’ Gruner Veltliner, Wagram 2018 750ML ($47.95) $38 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 91 points “Pure, bright and fresh on the precise nose, you wouldn’t guess this is a 2018. However, the 2018 Grüner Veltliner Der Ott is an excellent wine with some cow-stable notes on the nose and flavors of crushed or milled stones, yeast and weathered limestone. Very elegant and well-balanced on the palate, this is a medium-bodied and pretty intense Veltliner with textured finesse and mineral freshness on the finish. Excellent again! Tasted in December 2019.”
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Weingut Bernhard Ott Stein Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage, Wagram 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92+ points “Ott’s 2018 Grüner Veltliner Ried Engabrunner Stein 1ÖTW is very precise and even coolish on the flinty nose with its ripe white fruit and herbal as well as yeasty notes. Very elegant and even filigreed on the transparent palate, this is a dense, intense and juicy as well as tightly woven and sustainable Veltliner with the perfect amount of residual sugar. This is an excellent wine that will improve in the bottle. Keep it for at least another year. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg in September and, with nearly the same findings, in my home office in December 2019.”
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Weingut Bernhard Ott Rosenberg Gruner Veltliner 2018 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92+ points “From 60+-year-old vines, Ott’s 2018 Grüner Veltliner Ried Feuersbrunner Rosenberg 1ÖTW is deep, pure and fresh but also ripe and yeasty on the precisely mineral and iodine-scented nose. Round, lush and intense on the densely textured palate, this is a full-bodied, rich and powerful yet refreshing Veltliner with a hint of caramel on the finish but even more salts and tension. This has a terroir-driven soul but is also characterized by the warm vintage. The Rosenberg is not really massive but truly rich and powerful. The grapes were picked very early, but in contrast to other producers, there are no hints of unripeness or drying phenols. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg in September 2019 and in my home office in December.”
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Newly Reviewed & Arriving This Month
Weingut Bernhard Ott Spiegel Gruner Veltliner, Wagram 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 91 points “Ott’s 2018 Grüner Veltliner Ried Spiegel 1ÖTW is bright, clear and fresh on the deep and ripe yet precise and mineral nose. Lush and intense, with a loessy character and texture, this is a full-bodied yet fresh and linear, crystalline and intense Veltliner with a nicely phenolic, slightly dry finish. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg in September 2019.”
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Schloss Gobelsburg Lamm Gruner Veltliner, Kamptal DAC 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2018 Kammern Ried Lamm 1ÖTW displays an intense golden-yellow color and opens with a deep, clear and complex, remarkably refined and elegant, crystalline and flinty bouquet of crushed stones, herbs and ripe Veltliner fruit. Full-bodied, lush and intense but fine and elegant on the silky-textured and well-balanced palate, this is a perfectly round and sweet, lush and ripe, pretty generous Lamm with a long and elegant, beautifully balanced but tensioned and stimulating salty finish. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg and Schloss Gobelsburg in September 2019.”
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Schloss Gobelsburg Gaisberg Riesling, Kamptal 2018 750ML ($47.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “From Zöbing, the 2018 Ried Gaisberg 1ÖTW is deep, pure and flinty on the concentrated and complex nose. Tight and fresh on the pure and crystalline palate, this is a firmly structured, finessed and salty, still very young and tight Riesling with impressive grip and tension. The 2018 Gaisberg is a very promising dry Riesling that will improve in the bottle. Keep it cool for at least three or four years. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg and at the domain in September 2019.”
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Schloss Gobelsburg Heiligenstein Riesling, Kamptal 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “Gobelsburg’s 2018 Ried Heiligenstein 1ÖTW opens with a very clear, bright, fresh and flinty, very elegant and almost coolish bouquet, like almost no other Heiligenstein of this vintage except for Bründlmayer’s selections. Round and elegant on the palate, this is a bright and refined, highly elegant and crystalline Heiligenstein with an intense, piquant and mineral finish. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg and Schloss Gobelsburg in September 2019.”
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Schloss Gobelsburg Steinsetz Gruner Veltliner, Kamptal 2018 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points “From a cooler, late-ripening vineyard on gravelly soils, the Gobelsburger 2018 Ried Steinsetz offers a deep, intense and elegant, spicy and flinty bouquet of ripe and concentrated white fruits and broken stones. Full-bodied, intense and firmly structured, this is an expressive, elegant and sustainable Veltliner with remarkable purity and finesse as well as a promising phenol structure that gives good, food-friendly tension. Harvested at the end of October 2018. Tasted at the domain in September 2019.”
Schloss Gobelsburg Tradition Riesling Reserve, Kamptal 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “Entirely from the Gaisberg cru, the 2017 Riesling Tradition displays a clear and flinty, intense, fresh and complex bouquet of ripe and concentrated stone fruits intertwined with notes of crushed stones and herbal tea. On the palate, this is a rich and concentrated, lush and fruity Riesling with a sustainable, salty-piquant and well-structured, highly stimulating finish. This is a great wine made to age for a decade and more. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg and at the domain in September 2019.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points “From a cooler, late-ripening vineyard on gravelly soils, the Gobelsburger 2018 Ried Steinsetz offers a deep, intense and elegant, spicy and flinty bouquet of ripe and concentrated white fruits and broken stones. Full-bodied, intense and firmly structured, this is an expressive, elegant and sustainable Veltliner with remarkable purity and finesse as well as a promising phenol structure that gives good, food-friendly tension. Harvested at the end of October 2018. Tasted at the domain in September 2019.”
Schloss Gobelsburg Tradition Riesling Reserve, Kamptal 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “Entirely from the Gaisberg cru, the 2017 Riesling Tradition displays a clear and flinty, intense, fresh and complex bouquet of ripe and concentrated stone fruits intertwined with notes of crushed stones and herbal tea. On the palate, this is a rich and concentrated, lush and fruity Riesling with a sustainable, salty-piquant and well-structured, highly stimulating finish. This is a great wine made to age for a decade and more. Tasted at Schloss Grafenegg and at the domain in September 2019.”
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The average listed price is $60
Collector’s Corner
Gaja: Piedmont Icon
Gaja: Piedmont Icon
Gaja is an iconic producer in the world of wine. What DRC is to Burgundy, Gaja’s cru bottlings are to Barbaresco—they are the wines that put the region on the modern wine collector’s map, desirable long before anything else in their appellation was. Like most pinnacle wines, they’re usually quite expensive—at our prices, though, you’d have a hard time finding something more collectible and profound.
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The 2006’s are epic chez Gaja. This is a wine to drink in a decade (at least) when it will be a star.
Gaja Costa Russi Langhe, Piedmont 2006 750ML ($499.95) $299 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 93 points “Good full red. Reticent strawberry and plum aromas are complicated by a medicinal component. Rounder and sweeter than the normale, but also showing excellent inner-mouth lift for all its fullness. This very broad, fine-grained wine finishes with a juicy quality and excellent structure. In spite of its firm tannins, this makes the young ’07 come off as a bit drier by comparison.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2006 Langhe Costa Russi is a bit reticent at first, and two of the three bottles I tasted showed elements of reduction that eventually blew off. A gorgeous center of soft perfumed fruit lies behind the slightly unfocused bouquet. The wine reveals notable clarity and detail once it opens up in the glass, with dark cherries, flowers and minerals that linger on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2031.”
In Stock Now:
The 2006’s are epic chez Gaja. This is a wine to drink in a decade (at least) when it will be a star.
Gaja Costa Russi Langhe, Piedmont 2006 750ML ($499.95) $299 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 93 points “Good full red. Reticent strawberry and plum aromas are complicated by a medicinal component. Rounder and sweeter than the normale, but also showing excellent inner-mouth lift for all its fullness. This very broad, fine-grained wine finishes with a juicy quality and excellent structure. In spite of its firm tannins, this makes the young ’07 come off as a bit drier by comparison.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2006 Langhe Costa Russi is a bit reticent at first, and two of the three bottles I tasted showed elements of reduction that eventually blew off. A gorgeous center of soft perfumed fruit lies behind the slightly unfocused bouquet. The wine reveals notable clarity and detail once it opens up in the glass, with dark cherries, flowers and minerals that linger on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2031.”
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2014 was a great year for elegant, aromatic Barbaresco and Gaja overdelivered.
Gaja Costa Russi Barbaresco, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($499.95) $349 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Soft contours, silky tannins and sweet, perfumed fruit are some of the signatures in the 2014 Costa Russi. As always, Costa Russi is the most polished and open-knit of these wines in its youth. Succulent fruit, hard candy and lifted, perfumed aromatics give the 2014 considerable early appeal, but I expect time in bottle will work its usual magic. Today, the 2014 is showing only the barest hint of its potential. Even in the early going, though, the Costa Russi is a totally sexy wine.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Costa Russi is a beautiful wine that delivers profound color saturation with deep ruby highlights and blackish intensity. I would describe the nose as being more horizontal rather than vertical, if that makes sense. In other words, the bouquet makes its approach with wide intensity and large-scale aromas of black fruit, spice, tar, leather and licorice. It offers fewer of the sudden high notes or moments of sharpness that you get in 2013. Despite the common perception that this was a very cool vintage, the fruit here actually tastes riper and rounder than you might expect. That’s because the vintage heat all came toward the end of the growing season, and the Gaja family left fruit on the vines to the end. In the mouth, the wine shows depth and finesse with some stubborn firmness at this young stage. It needs to flesh out further with more bottle aging.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Tight and focused, this red features a beam of cherry, strawberry, leather, tobacco, tar and iron wrapped in the grip of dense, refined tannins. Fresh and balanced, showing plenty of energy on the resonant finish. Best from 2023 through 2040. 170 cases imported.”
We’re loving ’11 as a younger-drinking vintage. All charm and richness with softer edges.
Gaja Sori San Lorenzo Langhe, Piedmont 2011 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world’s most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can’t be denied.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The exciting 2011 Sori San Lorenzo is a wine of enormous beauty and grace. Gaia Gaja classifies her three single vineyard Langhe Nebbiolo wines as follows: Costa Russi is “flowers;” Sori Tildin is “fruit;” and San Lorenzo is “plant” (with more structure and a more compact feel). San Lorenzo does indeed boast a strong mineral component of pencil shavings and crushed granite, followed by red cherry and soft spice. The wine’s tannins start off harder than the other wines, but soften with time. Drink: 2018-2040.”
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The average listed price is $466
The average listed price is $466
Wow. This deserves all 97 points and more from Galloni—a classic in the making.
Gaja Sori San Lorenzo Barbaresco, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($499.95) $349 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2014 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo is the most virile and explosive of Gaja’s Barbarescos. Dark, brooding and powerful, with a huge spine of tannin, the San Lorenzo is utterly regal in the glass. Gravel, smoke, menthol, tar, licorice and a host of sepia-toned fruits build into a crescendo of aromas and flavors that is truly compelling. What a gorgeous wine this is.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Earthy notes lead off, followed by cherry, plum, graphite and tobacco flavors. Starts out broad and muscular, with a thick layer of tannins for support, yet gains elegance with aeration. A tad austere on the finish, but stays vibrant and long. Best from 2021 through 2036. 170 cases imported.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “Gaja’s 2014 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo is clearly at the beginning of a long and promising aging trajectory. At it’s core, it shows a pinch of nervous energy and inner tightness that will surely unravel and soften as this beautiful wine continues along its magical journey in time. Angelo Gaja and his family present spectacular results in this controversial 2014 vintage. They have risen far above most of their peers and have shown a keen ability to understand their site and the versatility of their cherished Nebbiolo grape. The variety sings with a loud and exuberant voice, first offering plenty of primary fruit like blackberry and dried cherry. It then follows up with savory earth and spice. This is a bright and youthful wine that is set steady for a long aging future.-Monica Larner”
This is the savory side of Gaja. Less about rich fruit (though it’s got that) than earth, spice and the forest.
Gaja Sori Tildin Barbaresco, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($499.95) $349 special, 2 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “The nose has it all here with fresh cranberry character, brambleberries and lavender intermingled with darker, more complex notes of cedar, nutmeg and cinnamon. Full body, so much vibrant acidity, tangy fruit, expansive yet tight tannins and a long, savory finish. Profound minerality. Delicious now but better in 2020.”
100% Serralunga in style, this is powerful and structured with massive richness to go along.
Gaja Sperss Langhe, Piedmont 2004 750ML ($599.95) $479 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine Spectator 99 points “Powerful and structured. Delicate aromas of sandalwood, blackberry, licorice and cherry follow through to a full body, with very chewy tannins and loads of pretty fruit and hints of vanilla. Sneaks up on you to deliver a red for aging. Massive. An amazing wine. Best after 2014. 1,500 cases made.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “Reviewed May 2015. The 2004 Sperss is one of the most finessed wines I have tasted from Angelo Gaja’s property in Serralunga. The darkness and gravitas of Serralunga are tempered by the supreme elegance of the year. Dark red and black cherries, smoke, tobacco, menthol and licorice flow through on the deep, resonant finish. This is another powerhouse wine that has been given an extra level of refinement in 2004.”
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The hidden gem of ’14, this is a value vis-à-vis some other vintages.
Gaja Sperss Barolo, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($319.95) $219 special, 17 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “More forward and in a more earthly realm than the dizzying heights of the Conteisa this vintage, but it’s so endearing and immediately delights. The aromas range from elderberries and black cherries to brambleberries and Chinese spices. Full-bodied and structured with powerful tannins that encase bright and forthright blue fruit, which is polished over by a sheen of glimmering acidity. Long finish. Delicious now, but better in 2022.”
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Underbrush, tobacco, toasted hazelnut, menthol and grilled herb aromas slowly take shape on this focused red. On the structured elegant palate, taut refined tannins and fresh acidity provide an ageworthy framework for raspberry compote, juicy Marasca cherry, orange zest, white pepper and star anise. It already has layers of depth and loads of finesse, but hold for even more complexity. Drink 2022–2030.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “This is a slightly more subdued vintage of this legendary wine, albeit just as sophisticated as past editions. The 2014 Barolo Sperss opens to gorgeous aromas of dark fruit, wet earth and white truffle. The vineyards in Serralunga d’Alba produced much less fruit than average and suffered from bouts of downy mildew during the rainy seasons. But Serralunga d’Alba fruit is also harvested late, and that extra time was important for achieving grape ripeness targets. The wine presents depth and complexity within the context of a thinner vintage. Having said that, the bouquet is spectacular.”
Decanter 94 points “Sperss comes from two crus in Serralunga, and like Gaja’s Barbarescos it’s aged in a combination of barriques and large barrels. As so often is the case, it’s a wine that combines power and finesse. It has a subdued cherry nose with a touch of oak, leading to a palate which is rich, powerful and tannic, but not too assertive. It’s well balanced and fleshy, with lots of velvety texture and grain, and there’s still an underlying freshness and finesse. Very long finish.”
Italy’s finest expression of Sauvignon Blanc?
Gaja Alteni di Brassica Langhe, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Case-6 Gaja Alteni di Brassica Langhe, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($699.95) $499 special (that’s only $83.17/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 91 points “The delightful 2015 Langhe Alteni di Brassica is a pure expression of Sauvignon Blanc. This is the only white wine in Angelo Gaja’s line that does not complete malolactic fermentation. The bouquet is exuberant and bright with green notes of salvia, wild oregano and white pepper. Those sharper tones are followed by bright layers of tropical fruit and zesty citrus. Drying mineral notes give sharp contours to the overall effect.”
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