Dom Perignon Rose and Brut
New Arrivals Including:
Cristom, Ken Wright, Samuel Billaud, Oddero and More!
James Suckling’s Top 100
2013 Bond, from a “Once in a Generation Vintage”
Trending Wines of the Week
Huet: Perfect for Thanksgiving
Cantine Lonardo Scores Big
A Mugneret-Gibourg Ruchottes Vertical
The Hype Builds for 2016 Ports (and We Stock Up)
Featured New Arrivals
Dom Perignon Rose, Champagne 2005 750ML ($379.95) $248 special
James Suckling 99 points “A mind-blowing wine. This is super subtle and intense with aromas of peaches, light strawberry and cream. Also shows rose petal and cooked peaches. Medium to full body, with ultra-fine tannins that feel like fine silk. The finish goes on for mintutes. It floats across the palate. The winemaker says the closet vintage to this is the 1990, but I think this is better.”
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2005 Dom Pérignon Rosé is intriguing, complex and multi-faceted. Brisk and refreshing, with a slightly herbal (but not unpleasant character), the 2005 is superb today. Over time, the wine has acquired a bit more depth and body than it showed at the outset. Even with all of its depth, though, I would not suggest cellaring the 2005 too long given the challenges of the year. Hints of blood orange, mint, sage and dried flowers add the closing shades of nuance.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “This rosé Champagne is rich and vinous, offering smoky minerality up front, expanding to show dried raspberry, mandarin orange zest, brioche and espresso crème flavors that ride the fine, lacy mousse. Spice and mineral details persist on the racy finish. Drink now through 2027.”
The average price is $326
Dom Perignon Brut, Champagne 2009 750ML ($199.95) $149 special
James Suckling 97 points “This is a DP that shows the ripeness of the 2009 vintage yet remains full of energy. Gorgeous aromas of cream, apple, mango, honeysuckle, and chalk follow through to a full body and super fine, tight texture. Dense and agile. Vinous. It’s like a top grand cru white Burgundy. Think Batard-Montrachet. More depth than the 2006. Drink now.”
Decanter 96 points “Unbroken sun through August and early September helped to shape an idyllic harvest, on 12th September. Superb maturity of fruit in flawless health has produced a wine with wafting scents of both fresh and confit of spiced lemon and wild cherry. Despite the heat, the wine has freshness, vitality and length. Still a youngster, this will grow greatly by 2019. A more stylish son of the ’03, and cousin of the slender and charming ’06. Disgorged June 2016.”
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “The 2009 Dom Pérignon is a gorgeous, totally seductive Champagne that will drink well right out of the gate. Medium in body and unusually open-knit at this stage, the 2009 is one of the most accessible young Dom Pérignons I can remember tasting. It is an excellent choice to drink while waiting for the release of the stellar 2008 and some recent vintages that remain very young, including the 2006. Despite the warm, ripe personality of the 2009 Dom Pérignon is quite gracious, but there is plenty of depth underpinning the fruit. With each successive tasting, the 2009 seems to have gained more power and breadth, especially on the finish. Above all else, the 2009 is decidedly restrained for a warm, radiant vintage. It is not as overtly flamboyant as the 2002 nor as phenolically intense as years like 2003 and 2006. Instead, the 2009 is a beautifully balanced Champagne, with all of its elements in the right place. Tasted three times.”
New Arrivals
Oregon
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Bright red fruits, sappy acids and citrus highlights combine here. The supporting tannins are ripe and toasty, with a slightly grainy mouthfeel. Suggestions of coffee grounds add further interest to the finish, which expands gracefully as it breathes. This is a wine still pulling itself together and clearly built to expand and improve with further bottle age. Drink now through 2030.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Lithe and pretty, this opens with expressive raspberry and violet aromas and delicately takes on complexity, with cherry, orange zest and cinnamon flavors that finish with polished tannins. Drink now through 2024. 749 cases made.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Cellar Selection. This is one of the top vineyard selections in this vintage, among a select group, notable for its outstanding focus and concentration. Still compact, its purple fruits are lightly spiced and deftly balanced; leaving little doubt that further improvement is just around the corner. Drink now through 2035.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Impressive for the polish and presence, offering impeccable structure and expressive raspberry and pomegranate flavors, accented by anise and dark tea notes. Drink now through 2024. 1,436 cases made.”
Ken Wright Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2015 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Polished and harmonious, with expressive raspberry and smoky spice flavors that glide along the finish. Drink now through 2023.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 92 points “The 2016 Chablis Mont de Milieu 1er Cru was harvested between 25 and 30hl/ha, with 20% aged in wood the rest in stainless steel for 18 months. The slightly longer élevage engenders a more complex bouquet than the Montée de Tonnerre with yellow fruit, green apple, chalk and light musky scents that are very well defined. The palate is very well delineated with a crisp bead of acidity, poised and saline in the mouth and just when you think it will fan out, it segues into a linear and classically lined, understated finish. Excellent.”
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2016 Chablis 1er Cru Mont de Milieu comes from three different types of vineyards at different altitudes and vine age that are blended together in the vineyard. It has a slightly austere bouquet with fine delineation: granite and flint scents. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity and is very precise and harmonious, with hints of quince and apricot toward the pretty finish. This is another very elegant wine from Samuel Billaud.”
Burghound 90-92 points “Sweet Spot – Outstanding Here too there is a whiff of mineral reduction sitting atop the ever-so-mildly exotic aromas of white peach, citrus rind, spice and enough classic Chablis character to be persuasive. There is notably better energy to the bigger, richer and more concentrated flavors that coat the palate with dry extract while also delivering superior depth and persistence. This is lovely stuff and worth checking out.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 92 points “The 2016 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre, which underwent 15 months in barrel, has a lovely dried honey and beeswax scented bouquet that gains intensity with aeration. The palate is very well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and vibrant with a tangy, saliva-inducing saline finish that feels very persistent. Excellent.”
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 90-93 points “The 2016 Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre comes from two parcels, one in the titular vineyard and the other in Chapelot, not far from Raveneau. It has quite a stern, focused, flinty bouquet that needs coaxing from the glass. The palate is (again) well balanced with a fine line of acidity. There are subtle notes of white peach and orange zest in situ, although perhaps not quite exuding the persistence of the Mont de Milieu on the finish. Still, this will merit three or four years in bottle.”
Samuel Billaud Les Vaillons Vieilles Vignes, Chablis Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2016 Chablis 1Er Cru Vaillons Vieilles Vignes comes from 70-year-old vines raised only in stainless steel. I like the aromatics here…this has a sense of purpose with vivid scents of orange zest and a touch of lychee. The palate is tensile right from the start thanks to that killer line of acidity. There is great depth here and the harmonious finish feels assured and elegant. Great potential and for me this is a serious step up from the Chablis Village and certainly worth the few extra dollars.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “Oddero’s 2013 Barolo is a beautifully delicate and nuanced expression of Nebbiolo from a balanced vintage. This edition offers a solid, firm and complete nature that translates to both the bouquet and the mouthfeel. The finish is polished, long and silky. I’ve always loved Oddero’s base Barolo and this happy wine generously illustrates that preference.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “This strikes a nice balance between fruity and savory elements, delivering cherry, strawberry, floral, licorice and tobacco notes on a delicate frame. Harmonious and enjoyable now, though the refined tannins suggest that this will benefit from another year or two in bottle. Best from 2019 through 2032. 2,400 cases made.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2013 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is a real head-turner. Sweet, perfumed, vivid and exceptionally beautiful, the 2013 is simply stunning. A wine of exceptional finesse and sensuality, the 2013 hits all the right notes. Today, the 2013 reminds me of the 2008, but with more depth, density and creaminess – especially through the middle – and slightly redder fruit tones.”
James Suckling Presents
2018 Wines of the Year
Chateau Canon, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($399.95) $349 pre-arrival special, ETA May 2019
James Suckling 100 points “Seductive. The nose draws you in deep: It’s like staring into a well of pristine dark cherries, dark plums, blackberries and mulberries. All the oak is perfectly subsumed. The palate’s flawless with immense depth and power and it’s so balanced as to appear to float. Immaculate fresh dark-berry and plum flavors. Silky and deep, ribbon-like finish. Perfect. Best from 2022.”
#3
Weingut Donnhoff Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA December
Weingut Donnhoff Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe 2017 1.5L ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special, ETA December
Stuart Pigott-Jamessuckling.com 100 points “An enormous spectrum of fruit aromas, from peaches through grapefruit to wild strawberries and pineapple. However, that doesn’t prepare you for the mind-blowing concentration and brilliance on the palate. Extremely filigree finish, in spite of the profound minerality. From organically grown grapes. Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold. Limited production.”
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA mid-November
James Suckling 100 points “OMG. This is really the most amazing young Taylor’s I have ever tasted. Full-bodied and lightly sweet with super power and intensity. So racy and focused. Yet this has such muscle and intensity. Needs at least eight years to show you everything it has to offer. Drink in 2025.”
#5
Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta, Apalta 2015 750ML ($149.95) $128 pre-arrival special, ETA March 2019
James Suckling 100 points “There is a subtle complexity on the nose with currant, berry, fresh herb and wet earth aromas. Cut fresh flowers, too. Full body, dense and powerful. Incredible character here with such purity and polish. It goes on for minutes. Formed, sculptured yet soulful. A monumental wine for Chile. Unbelievable. More powerful than the 2014 which was 100 points. A blend of 46% carmenere, 30% cabernet sauvignon, 19% merlot and 5% cabernet franc. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. Better in 2022”
#19
Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special, ETA late Fall
Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 1.5L ($199.95) $179 pre-arrival special, ETA late November
James Suckling 99 points “This is a stunning Beaucastel. A classic! Has a superb array of fruit, ranging from red, through to blue, darker purple and black. Nuances of dark, stony minerals, spices, wild flowers and herbs. So fleshy. This has impeccable balance, super-silky tannins and an extraordinarily long finish. This has decades ahead of it. Drink or hold.”
#25
Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA November
Case-6 Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special (that’s only $83.17/bottle!)
James Suckling 99 points “Gorgeous floral and deep, dark berry aromas with hints of spices such as cinnamon and hazelnuts. Full body and ultra-fine and strong tannins that are powerful yet so sleek and beautiful. Fantastic length and texture. Deep, dark and profound. Takes you on a long journey and shows you its true character. Better in 2025. Give it time.”
#57
Cayuse Vineyards Bionic Frog Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2014 750ML ($399.95) $349 special, 2 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 99 points “Deep fruit presence from the outset. Dark plums and purple cherries with abundant slate and graphite, dark chocolate and orange zest. The palate has impressive power and detail, superb purity and clarity. The palate glides effortlessly. A sexy finish. Drink or hold.”
Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2013 750ML ($134.95) $99 special, 13 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 98 points “A vivid and bright red with intense blueberries and raspberries. Floral undertones and tons of citrus, too! Full-bodied, dense and layered. Polished tannins and fantastic fruit. The muscularity of the structure is what gives this wine focus and intensity. So serious for the vintage. Give it time to show its greatness. Drink in 2022.”
2013 Bond
In Stock Now
From “A Once in a Generation Vintage”
“The five separate single vineyards that Bill Harlan has under long-term contract continue to perform at first growth quality levels. They generate between 500 and 600 cases of these single-vineyard wines that all represent distinctive and separate micro-climates of Napa Valley. The culled out barrels that don’t make the cut are blended together for a wine called Matriarch, which in itself is a terrific offering…
“The 2013s from Bond should prove to be fabulous wines with additional aging. They were scheduled to be bottled several months after my visit, and like the vintage itself, this is a great year for all of the Bill Harlan offerings. The wines are more structured than the 2012s, slightly more restrained, and coiled tightly at present, but bursting with super-concentrated blue and black fruits, huge body, structure and power. I still think the best comparison of the 2013 is a modern-day version of 2001, whereas 2012 is like a modern clone of 2002 – two great vintages in both cases, but very different styles in terms of the way they present themselves to the taster, both aromatically and on the palate.
“Bill Harlan has 25-year leases on all these single-vineyard estates. Their origins represent completely different expositions, terroirs and micro-climates in Napa Valley. For example, the Melbury originates in the hillsides north of Lake Hennessey, in the hills east of Rutherford and is a seven-acre, rocky vineyard. The Quella is a nine-acre site in the eastern hills overlooking Napa Valley. Its composition is cobble and various sizes of rocks as well as the white volcanic ash called tufa. St. Eden is just north of the Oakville crossroad on an 11-acre rocky knoll in the foothills of the Vaca Mountains. Soils here are iron-rich, fractured volcanic rock. The Vecina, which is closest to the Bond and Harlan vineyards and wineries is an 11-acre site facing east toward the Vaca Mountains in the Mayacamas foothills. This is made up of very pebbly, alluvial soils over sedimentary, fractured bedrock. Lastly, the Pluribus is a seven-acre site on Spring Mountain at an elevation of 1,100 feet. Soils here are all of volcanic origin, and the exposition is north and east.” – Robert Parker
Only one bottle available
Bond Melbury, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($569.95) $449 special
Robert Parker 97 points “The brilliant 2013 Melbury ratchets up the level of extract, with an opaque purple color, dense blueberry liqueur-like notes along with white flowers, licorice, and camphor followed by a full-bodied, incredibly seamless, concentrated, multidimensional wine. With its amazing depth and richness, while accessible now, it probably won’t hit its stride for another 5-7 years and last 30-35.”
The average price is $550
Only one bottle available
Bond Pluribus, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($619.95) $499 special
Robert Parker 100 points “The 2013 Pluribus is the finest wine I’ve tasted from this vineyard to date, capturing the vintage’s extraordinary purity and richness, with a multidimensional mouthfeel and incredible notes of blue and black fruits, charcoal, graphite and white flowers. This profound effort should hit its prime in another 5-10 years and evolve for 30-40 or more.”
The average price is $630
Only one bottle available
Bond Quella, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($579.95) $449 special
Robert Parker 96+ points “Much more structured, muscular, tannic and intense is the 2013 Quella, which exhibits blackberry notes, licorice, some truffle, graphite and damp earth, huge fruit, a muscular, full-bodied mouthfeel, and a long, moderately tannic finish. Forget it for a few years and drink it over the following 25-30+ years.”
The average price is $582
Bond St Eden, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($579.95) $479 special
Robert Parker 99 points “The 2013 St. Eden is absolutely mind-blowing, with notes of blackcurrant liqueur and licorice as well as hints of Asian soy and lead pencil. Wonderful fruit that hits the palate with a cascade of glycerin, silky but noticeable tannins, and a big, earthy, rich, full-throttle, majestic finish of close to a minute add to this wine’s compelling personality. It should drink well for at least 30-40 years.”
The average price is $576
Bond Vecina Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($619.95) $499 special
Robert Parker 100 points “The perfect 2013 Vecina offers up notes of pen ink, scorched earth, espresso, blackcurrant liqueur and blackberries. It is a fabulously great wine, with supple, well-integrated tannin, decent acidity, and a skyscraper-like mouthfeel, with extraordinary purity and richness. This is an amazing wine to drink over the next 50 years, although I would probably suggest cellaring for five or more at present.”
The average price is $587
#Trending
Weingut Hirsch Zobinger Gaisberg Riesling, Kamptal 2015 750ML ($69.95) Was $49, Now $39 Bin End Sale
David Schildknecht–Vinous 93-94 points “The haunting, esterous nose suggests rowan and white peach accompanied by kirsch and blueberry distillates. Firmer in feel than the corresponding Heiligenstein but bursting with midpalate flavor, this finishes with downright reverberative intensity; eye-watering brightness such as one least expects from 2015, not to mention mouthwatering salinity and consummate sheer refreshment. It seems to leave behind a load of crystalline stone and an alkaline residue you’ll have to scrape from your teeth.”
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “The nose just gives a gentle hint of ripe apricot. The palate, on the other hand, speaks freely of zesty citrus: ripe lemon and fresh Seville orange, full of tart zestiness and refreshing zing. This is slender and linear, taut but chock-full of fruit. There is drive and energy and total refreshment.”
The next best price is $55.58
Bodegas Allegro con Spirito Monte Hiniesta, Toro 2011 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Case-12 Bodegas Allegro con Spirito Monte Hiniesta, Toro TORO 2011 750ML ($179.95) $141.90 special (that’s only $11.83/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2011 Monte Hiniesta comes from six parcels of 65-year-old vines that are cultivated bio-dynamically. The wine is raised in new and second year French barrels. It has a gorgeous, vivacious, ravishing bouquet of wild strawberry, maraschino cherry and dark plum that is beautifully delineated. The palate is succulent on the entry with plush tannins, crisp acidity and a compact, fruit-driven finish that deserves another two years to unfurl. The aftertaste is very long, with hints of spice and white pepper. This represents great value. Drink 2014-2020.”
Delas Freres Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes-Marquise de la Tourette, Rhone 2013 750ML ($119.95) $49 special
Case-6 Delas Freres Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes-Marquise de la Tourette, Rhone 2013 750ML ($549.95) $249 special (that’s only $41.50/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 94 points “One of the gems in the vintage is the 2013 Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes, which comes from both the Bessards and Grandes Vignes lieux-dits on Hermitage Hill. Completely destemmed, then vinified in stainless steel and concrete tanks, the wine is aged 18 months in 30% new French oak; it offers terrific notes of dark fruits, graphite and ample minerality in a full-bodied, layered, ripe profile. It’s more approachable than the Les Bessards, yet will still have three decades of longevity.”
Jancis Robinson 18/20 points “Very dark purple indeed. Altogether broader and less focused than the Côte Rôties on the nose. Peppery and subtle. Very glossy, layered, complex and magnificent. I would reproach this only very slightly on the finish but it’s a pretty magnificent wine”
James Suckling 93 points “This has a refined, fragrant and very composed character with inherent aromatic spices and a stony edge, in addition to licorice and some star anise. The fruits are in the dried-plum and dried-cherry spectrum, but this also hints at plenty of cloves, cardamom and pepper. The palate’s succulent, powerful, even and really finely layered. The tannins are most definitely a feature now, and this has plenty of ageing potential. Enjoy the dark-plum and black-cherry finish. Best from 2020 and for a decade after that. Fom 100% granitic soils.”
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Brilliant violet. Complex mineral- and smoke-accented scents of dark fruit liqueur, violet and olive paste gain urgency from a smoky mineral quality . Juicy and sharply focused on the palate, offering sappy blueberry and bitter cherry flavors that deepen and become sweeter with air. Shows excellent depth and vivacity and finishes spicy and very long, displaying a resonating floral quality and building tannins.”
The next best price is $79.97
The average price is $89
Varner El Camino Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2015 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Varner El Camino Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2015 750ML ($299.95) $236 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2015 Chardonnay El Camino Vineyard from the Varner brothers is lovely, wafting from the glass with an expressive bouquet of honeycomb, ripe peaches and fresh apricot. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, pure and textural—displaying a touch more mid-palate ripeness than the 2014 rendition—and concludes with a long, saline finish. This is a characterful Chardonnay that represents terrific value.”
Twelve year old premier cru Beaune, from old vines.
Domaine du Chateau de Chorey Les Cras Vieilles Vignes, Beaune Premier Cru 2006 750ML ($79.95) $48 special
David Schildknecht-Wine Advocate 92 points “From the sixty year old vines rooted I chalk and flint that in my experience here (since 1985) nearly always give the most memorable but also the most austere Germain wine of a vintage, their 2006 Beaune Les Cras Vieilles Vignes displays formidable concentration and grip. Ripe black cherry and purple plum with their pits; roasted meats; peat, chalk and stone; bittersweet herbal extractions and nippy spices are the building blocks of this unusually structured 2006. There is also a juiciness of rare meat and fresh berries and a resinous sappiness to compliment the austerity of this wine’s adamant mineral expressions. The feel is firmer and the chalkiness far more pronounced than with any of the other Chateau de Chorey 2006s, but at the same time this is purest in fruit. I would plan on following this for at least a decade.”
The Joy of Huet for Thanksgiving
It’s gotta be delicious—first and foremost. You’re looking for a wine that you can drink in quantity and that non-wine-geeks will immediately get. This is not the time to explain why a wine is noteworthy or profound.
Next, it needs to pair with a wide variety of foods. This is the one that trips up a lot of cocktail wines. You want your wines to drink well with Turkey, sure, but also with the wide variety of sides on the table (though if you’re in the marshmallows-on-the-sweet potatoes camp, don’t bother with a pairing for that one). That often means whites with some warmth and richness or reds with a brightness and joie de vivre.
Finally, you can’t break the bank (too much). You’re going to need a lot of wine—it’s family time after all. You need something that’s available by the bundle—and that will be delicious with other meals should you have leftovers.
Enter the Sec and Demi-Sec wines of Domaine Huet. Rich, textured, bright and delicious, Vovray from this top producer seem purpose built for a meal like Thanksgiving. The Sec wines have a bright, lean edge but enough fruit to satisfy with a number of pairings, while the Demi-Sec wines are a bit more opulent (without tasting overtly sweet). Oh, and the Moelleux wines are a wonderful pairing with pie or cheeses.
In Stock Now:
Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Mont Sec, Loire 2017 750ML ($41.95) $33 special
John Gilman 94 points “The 2017 Sec bottling from the Le Mont vineyard is another gem from Domaine Huët. The bouquet is bright, pure and nascently complex, offering up scents of lemon, apple, quince, bee pollen, chalky soil tones and a topnote of spring flowers. On the palate the wine is deep, fullbodied and more closed in personality than the Le Haut Lieu Sec, with a bit of the backend dustiness of shutdown young Vouvray already starting to throw its weight around, but with excellent depth at the core and impressive focus. The finish is long, beautifully balanced and intensely flavored, with great energy and grip. This is dynamite wine in the making but unlike the Le Haut Lieu Sec, I would be tempted to tuck this away in the cellar right away and not drink any bottles during its first couple of years, as I have the sense that this is going to shut down quite briskly and it will be pointless to waste bottles early on, particularly given how much potential there is here for down the road! 2028-2060+”
The average price is $41
John Gilman 94+ points “The 2017 Clos du Bourg Sec from Domaine Huët is a superb young wine and probably the slight favorite of these three beautiful dry Vouvray bottlings. The wine delivers a lovely aromatic constellation of apple, quince, a whisper of fresh pineapple, beautiful limestone minerality, white flowers, a hint of citrus oil and a topnote of bee pollen. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, focused and rock solid at the core, with bright, ripe acids, excellent focus and grip and a very long, nascently complex and perfectly balanced finish. Great juice. 2018-2020; 2028-2065. 94+.”
The average price is $41
Wine Spectator 93 points “Plump and lively, with a core of bold ginger, McIntosh apple and almond notes followed by quince and persimmon flavors. Shows buried minerality, but also an ever-so-slightly off-dry wink on the finish, making this especially fun to drink. Drink now through 2032.”
Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Mont Demi-Sec, Loire 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Delightfully ripe and lively, with a mix of white peach, ginger, yellow apple and quince flavors that are carried by bright minerality and mouthwatering acidity. Light floral hints gild the finish, while the fruit drives through. Thoroughly delicious, and built to age well. Drink now through 2033.”
Domaine Huet Vouvray Clos du Bourg Demi-Sec, Loire 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “This glistens, with glazed pear, warm persimmon, green plum and quince flavors, all carried by elegant white ginger and verbena notes. A light gilding of piecrust adds to the flattering feel, though there’s ample acidity here for balance and drive. Drink now through 2032.”
Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Mont Moelleux, Loire 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Spectator 96 points “A beauty, with an inviting display of succulent yellow apple, green plum, pear, persimmon and quince flavors that ripples lengthily through the finish, while light verbena, ginger and honeysuckle notes dart around. A long green tea echo runs through the finish. Shows terrific range and purity, with the sweetness easily harnessed for balance. Best from 2019 through 2040.”
Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Le Haut Lieu’ Demi-Sec, Loire 2016 750ML ($59.95) $46 special
Case-6 Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Le Haut Lieu’ Demi-Sec, Loire 2016 750ML ($299.95) $249 special (that’s only $41.50/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 96 points “This delivers a beautiful display of purity and grace, with creamed Jonagold apple, star fruit, white peach and chamomile notes flowing seamlessly, backed by wet stone and fresh verbena accents. Subtle but persistent energy ripples through the very long finish. Drink now through 2035.”
From Ian d’Agata of Vinous
In Stock Now:
Leonardo Taurasi Grecomusc “Burlesque”, Campania 2015 750ML ($41.95) $33 special
Ian D’agata – Vinous 92 points “Golden-tinged yellow. Ripe aromas and flavors of peach and apricot are complicated by applesauce and sweet spices. Rounder and riper than the entry-level Grecomusc’ bottling by Lonardi, offering plenty of early appeal and smooth, round flavors. This should be drunk up sooner rather than later.”
Case-12 Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Aglianico Rosso Irpinia, Campania 2015 750ML ($299.95) $249 special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
Ian D’agata – Vinous 92 points “Deep ruby. Very perfumed fruity and floral aromas and flavors of violet, blackberry and dark cherry are complicated by a dusting of minerals. Superb vinosity and juicy fruit make for a crowd-pleaser blessed with harmonious acidity and sweet fruit nuances. Finishes long and juicy.”
Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Taurasi DOCG, Campania 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
Ian D’agata – Vinous 91+ points “Bright ruby-red. Pure, high-pitched aromas of dark cherry, flinty plum, licorice and violet. Clean, smooth and refined; tangy blueberry and pomegranate notes lift and intensify the midpalate. Finishes with building austerity. Very pure and varietally accurate on aback end that features a tarry nuance and lovely verve.”
Ian D’agata – Vinous 92 points “Good full ruby. Underbrush and musky red and dark fruit notes complicated by notes of hoisin sauce and sassafras. Enters fresh and juicy, then turns mountingly tannic. Finishes long and savory, with chewy tannins nicely supporting the ripe dark fruit flavors. Decant this at least an hour ahead and watch it develop in the glass.”
Ian D’agata – Vinous 93 points “Inky purple-ruby. Blackberry nectar, violet, red rose, lavender and coriander on the complex nose. Then fresh, pure savory, flinty blueberry, dark plum, licorice and tar flavors. More refined and less powerful than some past Taurasi Coste vintages, but very refined and long. Great Taurasi.”
Ruchottes-Chambertin
One of the highlights of the collection is their Ruchottes-Chambertin (Grand Cru), which competes each year with their Echezeaux for the honor of top wine in their cellar. Ruchottes is one of the best two Chambertin satellites, vying with Clos de Beze for the honor (depending on who you ask). In the hands of Mugneret-Gibourg, the vineyard yields a stunning wine, rich and decadent with an intense minerality and acres of soul. We were pleased to source a vertical of this legend of Burgundy (as well as 13 other bottlings from the esteemed estate, viewable here on our webstore) and are pleased to offer them to you, arriving this month.
Arriving ETA November:
Domaine Georges Mugneret-Gibourg Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2002 750ML ($799.95) $699 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “This was made solely from the estate’s old vines; the recently replanted portion of the Mugnerets’ holding will not go into this cuvee for at least a few more years): Medium red. Knockout nose combines red berries, smoke, game and red licorice. Silky-sweet and seductive, with lovely subtle intensity of flavor. Velvety but not at all weighty, in the manner of the best Burgundies. Finishes with superb building sweetness and wonderfully subtle, persistent soil tones.”
The next best price is $749
Stephen Tanzer 93+ points “Good medium red; seemed to deepen in color with air. Claret-like aromas of smoky redcurrant, graphite and flowers. Silky on entry, then sweet, spicy and floral in the middle, with lovely lift for the vintage. Finishes with substantial tannins and a lingering perfume of rose petal. The Mugneret ’05s, not surprisingly, manage to avoid the superripe, almost southern Rhone-like aromas of some wines from this vintage.”
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Medium red. Subdued aromas of redcurrant, smoke and crushed almond took on a mineral tone with aeration. Silky and plush but firm, with red berry and tobacco flavors coating the mouth and rising impressively on the very long, gripping finish. The tannins are quite fine. This boasts terrific fat for the vintage and has turned out very well.”
Stephen Tanzer 94+ points “(from vines at least 55 years old): Medium bright red. Reticent but already compelling perfume of red cherry, licorice, spices and wild herbs. Similarly closed on the palate, with sweet, floral red fruit flavors building slowly and mounting impressively through the whiplash of a finish. The wine’s bracing finishing flavors glitter on the aftertaste. Smoky, rather brooding tannins call for a good decade of patience.”
Domaine Georges Mugneret-Gibourg Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2013 750ML ($619.95) $549 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Deep medium red. Very reticent nose hints at red berries, truffley underbrush and nutty oak. Fatter, sweeter and richer than the Echézeaux, displaying superb volume for the year. Ripe redcurrant and graphite flavors are enlivened by minty mineral lift. Finishes with fine tannins and plenty of lightly peppery acidity to support a graceful evolution in bottle. Perhaps a bit less harmonious in the early going than the wonderfully silky Echézeaux.”
The next best price is $699.99
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Bright, dark red: lovely Pinot color. Deep, highly nuanced nose combines raspberry, mocha, flinty minerality and complex soil tones. Plush, sexy and sweet but with a serious edge of acidity framing its intense strawberry, red raspberry, mineral and spice flavors. This compellingly chewy, full yet juicy wine finishes rich and very long, with serious late-arriving tannins and lingering perfume.”
The next best price is $699
The Hype is Building
And We’re Adding More Stock
Of 2016 Vintage Port
“I often forget the joy of tasting young Port. Any trepidation vanished with the first sample: the succulent and ebullient black fruit with veins of blueberry and cassis, those cashmere tannins and, crucially in 2016, the silver bead of acidity that lends them so much freshness and eliminates any heaviness in the mouth.
“The general quality across the board is high and, from the selection I tasted, there is not really a weak link in the pack. The focus on quality is paramount in the Douro. Given that declarations only come around once every three or four years on average, you can bet that there is no cutting corners.
“There is no doubting the quality of these nascent 2016s. I am aware that the market can be resistant since the noble tradition of finishing dinner with a wee snifter of Vintage Port has faded in recent years. Then again, in terms of quality to price ratio it beats their equivalents Bordeaux or Burgundy hands down. Why not treat yourself to a case or two? Not only is Port more pleasurable in its youth, but these fortifieds possess in-built longevity and will give three or four decades of drinking pleasure.” – Neal Martin, Vinous
New Wines Added, Arriving ETA February 2019:
“Extremely complex aromas that show the classic Graham character”
W & J Graham’s Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
W & J Graham’s Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 375ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 99 points “Extremely complex aromas that show the classic Graham character of black-fruit marmalade and burnt oranges. Follows through to a full body with great grip at the finish. Lightly sweet. Chewy and powerful. Such a focus at the end.”
Wine Spectator 98 points “This offers a distilled plum and boysenberry essence, with a racy feel, as spearmint and graphite notes drive through. As the finish kicks in, this turns toward the dark side, with ganache, charcoal and tar elements. Has the showy ripeness of the vintage but is backed by a decidedly dry feel on the finish, imparting a sense of precision despite the heft. Best from 2030 through 2055.”
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. This finely structured wine is powered by fine tannins and rich fruits. A touch of acidity comes through the rich berry flavors and the concentration of the dark tannins. This wine will certainly age, don’t drink before 2028.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2016 Vintage Port is a blend of 37% Touriga Nacional, 42% Touriga Franca and various others. It comes in with 115 grams of residual sugar. A bit bigger than Dow’s this year, this is more intense as well. The better wine of these two benchmarks seems to be this Graham’s. Tight on the finish, aromatic and very flavorful, this actually opens rather well and shows off its lovely fruit. The Dow’s will be approachable a bit earlier, perhaps, and this may reward aging even more. As always, Graham’s is wonderfully delicious. That’s one hallmark of the house. I’m not sure this is a truly great Graham’s, but at the moment, it is enticing, with plenty of potential for improvement. There were 6,325 cases produced, plus some bottles in other formats.”
“like a coiled spring with so much energy”
Fonseca Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 375ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 98 points “Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025.”
Wine Spectator 97 points “This leads in with bramble, spearmint and blueberry notes, with the energy extending through the core of dark plum, blackberry and fig fruit. The finish features a strong graphite spine, allowing this to draw deep water, but this remains stylish in feel overall. Best from 2030 through 2055.”
Neal Martin – Vinous 96 points “The 2016 Fonseca Vintage Port began to be picked on 21 September at their Panascal vineyard, their Quinta do Cruzeira vineyard not picked until 6 October. It is deep, almost inky in colour. The bouquet is very intense with luscious black fruit laced with embers, clove and hints of bay leaf. There is wonderful purity here and a broodiness that suggests you’d better be patient. The palate is sweet and lively on the entry with some gorgeous ginger and curry leaf notes littered over the compact black fruit. There is wonderful density to this Fonseca. It is like a coiled spring with so much energy towards the finish that you just know this will be a long-term prospect. Superb. Production is 4,900 cases.”
“obviously destined for long aging”
Dow’s Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Dow’s Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 375ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 98 points “This packs a lot of fun, with a wallop of blackberry, fig, boysenberry and açai berry compote flavors working together, laced with a mouthwatering licorice snap note and driven by a fresh, well-detailed finish. A roasted apple wood accent is integrated as well, lending textural contrast through the vivacious finish. Best from 2030 through 2055.”
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Very floral, intense and ripe, this is a wine that is based around big black fruits as well as fine acidity. It is obviously destined for long aging with its powerful dry tannins and perfumed acidity. Drink this wine from 2028.”
James Suckling 96 points “Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and dried flowers plus hints of slate follow through to a full body, very fine tannins and a driven and linear finish. Orange peel and dried fruit. Sleek and racy. Ready to try in 2024.”
Also Available, Arriving This Month:
“OMG” – James Suckling
Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 100 points “OMG. This is really the most amazing young Taylor’s I have ever tasted. Full-bodied and lightly sweet with super power and intensity. So racy and focused. Yet this has such muscle and intensity. Needs at least eight years to show you everything it has to offer. Drink in 2025.”
Neal Martin – Vinous 97 points “In 2016 Taylor’s began picking in Vargellas on 17 September, followed by Pinhão Valley estate on 23 and 26 September. The 2016 Vintage Port has an aristocratic bouquet with tight wound aromas of blackberry, bilberry, crushed stone, black olive and a light, marine-tinged element, perhaps almost peat-like. The palate is just beautiful with fine, chiseled tannins and a perfect line of acidity. There is that almost “arching” structure one always seeks in a great Taylor’s with a gentle but insistent grip towards the finish. It is everything you really want from a Vintage Port. Production is 6,200 cases.”
“Wonderful purity here”
Fonseca Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 98 points “Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025.”
Neal Martin – Vinous 96 points “The 2016 Fonseca Vintage Port began to be picked on 21 September at their Panascal vineyard, their Quinta do Cruzeira vineyard not picked until 6 October. It is deep, almost inky in colour. The bouquet is very intense with luscious black fruit laced with embers, clove and hints of bay leaf. There is wonderful purity here and a broodiness that suggests you’d better be patient. The palate is sweet and lively on the entry with some gorgeous ginger and curry leaf notes littered over the compact black fruit. There is wonderful density to this Fonseca. It is like a coiled spring with so much energy towards the finish that you just know this will be a long-term prospect. Superb. Production is 4,900 cases.”
“Opulent yet restrained”
Croft Vintage Port, Portugal 2016 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “Extremely perfumed with dark-berry and currant aromas. Hints of earth and spices. Full-bodied, round and medium sweet. Hints of resin. Opulent yet restrained. Shows ripe and beautiful fruit with clarity. Try in 2025.”
Neal Martin – Vinous 94 points “The 2016 Croft Vintage Port has a taut bouquet at first that demands a good 20 or 30 minutes to get into its stride. It eventually reveals scents of blackberry, bilberry, chimney soot, clove, and just a hint of scorched earth in the background. The palate is spicy and vivacious on the entry: black fruit, clove, white pepper and curry powder (almost like a Balti!) I love the personality imbued into this Croft, a Vintage Port that seems to be wearing its heart on its sleeve. Excellent. Production is 3,050 cases.”