Delicious Sauternes Priced for Holiday Feasting
New Arrivals
Including Evening Land, Belle Glos,
Chateau Thivin, Occhipinti, Roda and More!
California Treasures from the Cellar
Averaen’s Stellar Willamette Pinot
Just Arrived Values in Grower Champagne
Stuff all the Stockings: Great Deals by the Case
Bethel Heights’ Beautiful Entry Pinot
Biondi-Santi Inbound
2015 Masseto
Additional Stock Secured
Last time we were able to offer the 2015 Masseto, it sold out nearly instantly. Well good news if you missed out last time—we were able to secure some additional stock on this legend in the making. The bad news is that all that’s available is a single three-pack. The clock is ticking—don’t miss it again.
Arriving Next Week:
Ornellaia Masseto, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($819.95) $679 pre-arrival special, only 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 100 points “The release of this wine comes at a very happy time for the Masseto brand. The stunning 2015 Masseto is hitting the market just as the final touches are being made to the new Masseto winery. I’m told that Masseto might one day see other wines made under that same roof, so we can’t exclude a future enlargement of the Masseto portfolio. The Masseto vineyard now covers seven hectares (divided into three plots), and the vines range from 30 to 40 years old. The wine is absolutely teeming with sensorial spirit that is transmitted through the bounty of the bouquet and the solid tannins of the mouthfeel. Nothing about the wine goes unnoticed or unchecked. Its many working pieces fit together with precision like a well-oiled machine. The 2015 vintage is characterized by a level of sheer exuberance that also defined the 2004 and 2007 vintages. Yet, it also reveals similar power, directness and linearity that we saw in the 2010 vintage. The 2015 Masseto takes the best of all those past vintages and confines those qualities to this single, spectacular bottle.”
Antonio Galloni 99 points “The 2015 Masseto is simply extraordinary. Soft, silky and seamless, the 2015 possesses remarkable balance and harmony from the very first taste. What surprises me most about the 2015 is how fresh and vibrant the flavors are. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, mint, and wild flowers are all beautifully lifted in this exquisitely perfumed, gracious Masseto. Despite the warm, drought conditions of the early summer, the 2015 is a wine of mid-weight structure, polish and restraint. In this tasting, it positively dazzles. I can’t remember ever tasting a young Masseto with this much pure harmony. Other vintages have been super-impressive upon release. The 2004, 2006, 2010 and 2013 all come to mind. But the 2015 has a level of pure sensuality and allure none of those vintages had when young, with the possible exception of the 2004.”
James Suckling 99 points “The aromas are profound here with a deep and vast character of black olives, cedar, chocolate and berries, as well as vanilla essence and light coffee. Flamboyant. Full-bodied, this powerful young Masseto is chewy, muscular and rich. Dusty tannins, yet wonderfully polished. A wine for the cellar. Try in 2022.”
Wine Spectator 98 points “This red leads off with exquisite notes of vanilla and toast, framing black cherry, blackberry, cedar and iron flavors. Ripe and powerful, yet polished and silky, with dense tannins well-integrated into the structure. The fruit returns in the end, along with a licorice note. A superb young version, showing fine potential. Merlot. Best from 2021 through 2035. 390 cases imported.”
“We Wish You a Merry Christmas”
A Delicious Sauternes
Priced for Holiday Feasting!
Arriving Wednesday:
Chateau Raymond-Lafon, Sauternes 2006 375ML ($29.95) $19 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Tasted blind at Southwold 06 Bordeaux tasting. It is adorned with a straightforward, no frills Sauternes nose, good definition, barley sugar, lemon curd and honey, gaining in intensity in the glass. The palate is well-balanced, good freshness here with notes of honey, marmalade, a touch of ginger; nice cohesion and very good weight towards the finish. It needs another couple of years to tuck its shirt in, but I admire its focus and breeding. Tasted January 2010.”-NM
Wine Spectator 91 points “Unctuous, sporting apricot, glazed pear and creamed melon flavors, with a lush coconut-tinged finish. A nice floral hint weaves in and out, adding length and vivacity, too. Drink now through 2020. 2,165 cases made.”-JM
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price for a half bottle is $25
New Arrivals
Oregon
Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Graceful and elegantly complex, with alluring Meyer lemon and green apple flavors accented by wet stone and sweet anise notes on a lingering finish. Drink now through 2021.”Beautiful, delicious—and more than fairly priced.
Twill Cellars Pinot Noir, Northern Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
VinopolNote: Simply delightful. The entry level Twill Pinot combines layers of delicious fruit with a bright and fresh personality that renders a wine both interesting and immensely drinkable. For the price it’s one of the best values in Willamette Pinot.
Stunningly good, old-world style Syrah.
Twill Cellars Steelhead Run Vineyard Syrah, Applegate Valley 2015 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
VinopolNote: This stunning, old-world styled Syrah comes from a single vineyard in Oregon’s oft-overlooked Applegate Valley. Steelhead Run is a rocky site that yields concentrated, small berried fruit of immense personality. Twill’s talented winemaker Chris Dickson vinifies this with 100% whole clusters and ages it in older barrels to let the savory, gamey side of the grape shine. This stands up to good Cornas and is certain to delight lovers of Northern Rhone Syrah.
Cristom ‘Mt. Jefferson Cuvee’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($37.95) $29 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2016 Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir is pale to medium ruby with a hint of purple. It has a lovely spicy nose of Bing cherries, red licorice, cranberries and black cherries over a core of cardamom, wet leaves, Bergamot and cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied and silky textured, it has wonderful concentration of dark fruits in the mouth with great layers of earth and spice—wet leaves, mushroom, clove—with firm tannins to hold up all those layers and delightfully juicy acidity to carry the long, spicy finish.”-EB
Winery Note “Mt. Jefferson Cuvée is a blend of the Cristom estate Pinot Noir vineyards [68%] along with exceptional fruit we source from neighboring vineyards in the Willamette Valley. These contributing sites have been thoughtfully selected over the years, and are planted on a variety of soil types, elevations and aspects, representing the Willamette Valley Appellation as a broader whole. Each of these vineyards are farmed by committed winegrowers we are proud to partner with, with each site adding to the character, fruit, and structure of the wine, giving “Mt. Jeff” its deserved reputation as one of the most stylistically consistent Pinot Noirs in the world.”
Belle Glos ‘Las Alturas Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands 2015 750ML ($54.95) $29 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Dark-hued, rich and spicy, with an enticing core of mocha-laced blackberry, cherry, spice and floral scents. Ends as it begins, bold and rich. Drink now through 2026.”
The next best price is $41.95
The average price is $50
France
Chateau Thivin Cote de Brouilly, Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($31.95) $28 special
Case-12 Chateau Thivin Cote de Brouilly, Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($359.95) $299 special (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Chateau Thivin Cote de Brouilly, Beaujolais 2017 1.5L ($69.95) $59 special
Chateau Thivin Cote de Brouilly, Beaujolais 2017 3L ($199.95) $159 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2017 Côte de Brouilly is superb, unfurling in the glass with aromas of ripe cassis, candied violets and plums. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, rich and concentrated, structured around fine-grained but chewy tannins and tangy balancing acids, with considerable depth and substance at the core. The wine is still quite primary and will need some time to come together, but it’s an excellent rendition of this storied cuvée that resembles the 2011 vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price for a double magnum in the USA today!
Chateau Thivin Brouilly ‘Reverdon’, Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Brouilly Reverdon bursts from the glass with lovely aromas of blackberries, cassis, plums and potpourri. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, bright and juicy, with sweeter fruit than the 2016 rendition but a shared sense of crunchiness and vivacity. It was only bottled three weeks before I tasted it, but it was already showing very well.”
Azienda Agricola Arianna Occhipinti SP68 Bianco Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2017 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
VinopolNote: A Blend of Albanello and Zibbibo (Moscato di Alessandria). Fermented on the skins for a few weeks, but not an ‘orange’ wine, this is pretty and perfumed, with bright, sparkling acidity and slight herbal notes overlayed across stone fruit flavors. A really standout Sicilian white.
Sottimano Pajore, Barbaresco DOCG 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Pajoré is the most potent and brooding of the 2015s. The heft, weight and structure of Pajoré comes through in the 2015, but the flavor profile is similar to that of the other wines. Racy, silky and generous, the 2015 is very much the product of a warm, sunny growing season. The Pajoré will need at least a few years to shed some tannin, but it is very showy, even at this early stage.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Azienda Agricola Arianna Occhipinti SP68 Sicilia Rosso IGT, Sicily 2017 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
James Suckling 92 points “There’s some lovely fresh-sage character to complement notes of blueberry compote and citrus, together with crushed violets and lavender. Medium to full body, some bright acidity, firm tannins and a bright finish. Always excellent. From organically grown grapes. Drink in 2020.”
Bodegas Roda ‘Roda I’ Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2011 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
James Suckling 98 points “There is beauty here and the transparency is inspiring with dark berry, floral and mineral character. Full body and ultra-fine tannins. A glorious wine. A wine that will age for decades and beautiful now.”
The next best price is $69.95
The average price is $76
California Treasures
Properly Cellared Beauties from the Golden State
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia, Napa Valley 2001 750ML ($279.95) $249 special
Robert Parker 98+ points “[Reviewed 2013] Still a young wine at age 12, the 2001 Insignia exhibits a dense purple color along with a sweet bouquet of camphor, blackberries, cassis, incense and spring flowers. Full-bodied, rich and heady with sweet tannin, stunning concentration and a fabulous finish, this remarkable Insignia has 25 or more years of life ahead of it.”
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia, Napa Valley 2002 750ML ($399.95) $349 special
Robert Parker 100 points “[Reviewed 2013] The 2002 boasts an inky/purple color along with notes of graphite, violets, blackberries, creme de cassis and hints of charcoal and barbecue in addition to a full-bodied, multilayered mouthfeel that builds incrementally with great purity, staggering fruit concentration, and a long, velvety, 50+-second finish. This prodigious effort should continue to drink well for 20+ years.”
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia, Napa Valley 2003 750ML ($189.95) $149 special
Robert Parker 97 points “[Reviewed 2013] Joseph Phelps has been an iconic producer of great Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon for over three decades. That fact jumped out at me when I looked at the 2003 Insignia (30th Anniversary), and I remember them all – with good reason. The 2003, a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot and 3% Malbec, aged 24 months in 100% new French oak, is a stunner. Velvety-textured, full-bodied and opulent with abundant notes of creme de cassis, licorice, incense, flowers and subtle background oak, this rich, impeccably pure, well-balanced Cabernet is just about everything you would want in a world-class red. Drinking well already, it should continue to provide immense pleasure for another 20-25 years. Keep in mind that I once predicted that their 1974 Insignia (the debut vintage) would not last past ten years. I gave it a great review and told readers to drink it up. Well, it’s still drinking well at age 39! The 2003 is a staggeringly great Insignia that is performing better now than it did early on – always a sign of great winemaking.”
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia, Napa Valley 2006 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Robert Parker 95+ points “The 2006 Insignia (95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot; 16,000 cases produced) is a superb effort in this vintage. Another 30+ year wine, it boasts a dense plum/purple color as well as abundant notes of licorice, black currants, charcoal, black olives, and graphite. Full-bodied, pure, and rich with moderately high tannins, it represents a California version of a Bordeaux from Pauillac or St.-Julien. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2045.”
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia, Napa Valley 2007 750ML ($349.95) $299 special
Wine Advocate 100 points “Deep garnet colored with a lingering hint of purple, the 2007 Insignia Proprietary Red Wine reveals the most seductive crème de cassis, Black Forest cake and licorice notions with touches of violets, eucalyptus, chocolate box and unsmoked cigars plus a waft of cedar chest. Full-bodied with tantalizing opulence yet compelling restraint, the palate beautifully juxtaposes the rich, ripe fruit with wonderful freshness and a firm yet plush backbone, finishing beautifully perfumed.”Only one bottle available
Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red, Napa Valley 2005 750ML ($179.95) $149 special
Robert Parker 95 points “[Reviewed 2015] As for the 2005 Proprietary Red, it is a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% each Petit Verdot and Malbec. While this might not be the blockbuster one would expect, there is outstanding depth, purity and overall texture and ripeness. Again, terrific acidity gives the wine vigor and precision, despite a lofty 15.2% alcohol. The wine is fresh and pure, with black raspberry and blackcurrant fruit, some white floral notes, and the telltale forest floor. This is a wine to drink over the next 10-15+ years. Pahlmeyer’s wines age well, as I am still working off the 1995 and 1996 Proprietary Reds, which remain in great shape.”
Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2001 750ML ($119.95) $99 specialOnly one bottle available
Staglin Family Vineyard Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 2002 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Starts with an extraordinarily complex, refined aroma, detailed and inviting in cassis, tobacco, anise, cocoa and smoky oak. In the mouth, there’s fantastic depth and complexity. The wine is rich, profound, a star even in its Rutherford stable of thoroughbreds. It has enormous power, with finely ground, sweet tannins. Absolutely gorgeous now, with the stuffing and balance for improvement.”
Robert Parker 95 points “Possibly the superstar of the Rutherford appellation, Staglin’s brilliant 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as a sweet perfume of kirsch liqueur, licorice, subtle smoke, roasted herbs and that red, loamy soil note that is part of the so-called “Rutherford dust” terroir characteristic. Round, rich and opulent with beautiful purity, but still some light tannins in the background, this wine has absorbed all of its new oak and is currently a gorgeous example of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that should drink well for another two decades.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “A gorgeous wine, dark, dense and powerful, very rich and concentrated, featuring deep layers of mocha, blackberry, espresso, graphite and tobacco flavors. The long, persistent finish offers firm, ripe tannins that are softening. Slow to evolve, but has a long life ahead.—2002 California Cabernet blind retrospective (May 2012). Drink now through 2028.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Beringer Vineyards Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 1992 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Robert Parker 96 points “When I was in northern California the week before Thanksgiving, the rumors that were swirling about the impending sale of Beringer by its international corporate owner, Nestle, to an investment consortium proved true when the sale was announced. Let’s hope the new owners maintain the status quo, as Beringer has had an exceptional run of highly successful wines since the mid-eighties. Considering the diversity of wines produced, I would be hard pressed to single out another winery that has enjoyed as much success as Beringer has over the last decade.”Only one bottle available
Beaulieu Vineyard BV Reserve Tapestry, Napa Valley 1999 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Clarendon Hills Astralis Shiraz, McLaren Vale 2005 750ML ($249.95) $199 special
Wine Advocate 99 points “At the top of the pyramid is the 2005 Syrah Astralis Vineyard. It is sourced from a vineyard planted in 1920 and is one of the Syrah cuvees in which 100% new oak is utilized (along with Brookman, Hickinbotham, and Piggott Range). It delivers an ethereal bouquet of smoky oak, violets, espresso, black pepper, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Densely packed and tightly wound, all it needs is time. The wine is totally harmonious, impeccably balanced, and exceptionally long. When it fully unwinds, even my high rating will appear conservative. Its only competition comes from the likes of Guigal, Chapoutier, Chave, Krankl, and Ringland.”
Josh Raynolds 95+ points “Glass-staining purple. A room-filling bouquet displays the full range of dark fruits, with exotic Asian spices, graphite, cured tobacco, lavender perfume and rose pastille adding complexity. Mouthcoating boysenberry and kirsch flavors are complicated by high-octane chocolate, candied licorice, vanilla bean and floral pastilles, with a bright cracked pepper quality adding lift. Supple tannins mount on the finish, adding structure but allowing the jaw-dropping fruit to shine through. If you have the means and the access, this is one to buy.”
Averaen’s Stellar Willamette Pinot
We’re pleased to welcome the exceptional wines of Averaen to Vinopolis—at more than exceptional pricing. If you’re unfamiliar with these wines, you’d be excused—2016 is only the label’s second year in existence, but they’ve already established themselves as a top producer of rich, terroir-driven Pinot Noir in Oregon.
Averaen is a project of Baron Ziegler, one of the founders of Banshee wines, and liketheir Cali-counterparts, the Averaen wines deliver exceptional value—a hard thing to do in Pinot Noir. We’re excited to get this collection of high scoring, high value Willamette Pinot Noir in on Friday. These are exceptionally made, well reviewed single vineyard wines (and one Willamette blend) that are a steal for the prices we’re offering them at.
Just Arrived:
Averaen Croft Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($49.95) $36 special
Josh Raynolds 93 points “(50% whole clusters and 50% new French oak) Brilliant red. Powerful smoke- and spice-accented red berry liqueur, mocha and floral pastille scents show excellent clarity and pick up notes of licorice and cola with air. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering juicy black raspberry, cherry cola, lavender and spicecake flavors that become livelier on the back half. This weighty yet lithe Pinot finishes smooth and very long, featuring slow-building tannins and resonating florality.”
Josh Raynolds 93 points “(50% whole clusters and 50% new French oak) Vivid red. Spice-tinged black raspberry and cherry scents are complicated by hints of cola, pungent flowers and smoky minerals. Sweet and seamless on the palate, offering energetic red and dark berry and vanilla flavors along with suggestions of rose pastille and blood orange that add complexity. Concentrated but vibrant and precise in character, delivering strong finishing thrust, interwoven tannins and excellent, floral-driven persistence.”
The next best price is $42.75
The average price is $48
Josh Raynolds 92 points “(20% whole clusters and 50% new French oak) Lurid red. Blackberry and boysenberry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola and candied violet, and a smoky mineral note lends nervy lift. Incisive dark berry and bitter cherry flavors slowly gain flesh and become sweeter in the midpalate. Impressively precise and energetic, delivering strong finishing thrust and dusty, building tannins that make a late appearance.”
The next best price is $46.99
The average price is $47
Josh Raynolds 93 points “(30% whole clusters and 50% new French oak) Deep vivid red. A highly aromatic bouquet evokes red fruit liqueur, mocha and Asian spices, along with a smoky mineral overtone. Juicy, seamless and precise on the palate, offering sweet raspberry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen and spread out steadily with air. Conveys a suave blend of richness and finesse and finishes with supple, harmonious tannins and outstanding clarity and floral-tinged persistence.”
The next best price is $46.98
The average price is $48
Josh Raynolds 91 points “(40% new French oak) Bright red. Aromas of ripe red berries and cherry, along with subtle cola and licorice nuances. Sweet and penetrating on the palate, offering bitter cherry and raspberry flavors that flesh out on the back half. A smoky note emerges on the clinging finish, which features fine-grained tannins and suave red fruit preserve and mocha qualities.”
The next best price is $32.98
The average price is $34
Just Arrived!
New Values in Grower Champagne
Bourdaire-Gallois Brut Non Dosage, Champagne NV 750ML ($47.95) $33 special
Case-12 Bourdaire-Gallois Brut Non Dosage, Champagne NV 750ML ($499.95) $349 special (that’s only $29.08/bottle!)
Importer note “The Brut NV is 100% Pinot Meunier harvested from six different parcels. After a slow and gentle pressing in a traditional Coquard vertical press, the juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks. It undergoes a malo-lactic fermentation and then rests “sur lattes” for a minimum of 18 months. The Champagne is finished with a dosage of 0g/l.”
A beautiful, very dry rosé Champagne.
Bourdaire-Gallois Brut Rose Non Dosage, Champagne NV 750ML ($54.95) $36 special
Importer note “The Brut Rosé NV is 100% Pinot Meunier harvested from six different parcels. It is made by combining 21% red wine with 79% white wine from Pinot Meunier (blanc de noir). The juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks and an “assemblage is made that includes 20%reserve wine from the previous vintage. The wine goes through a malo-lactic fermentation and then rests “sur lattes” for a minimum of 3 years. The Champagne is finished with a dosage of 0g/l.”
A standout from an on the rise grower.
Perseval-Farge Cuvee de Pinots Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Importer note “The “C. de Pinots” is a blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. A gentle pressing is done with a vertical press and the juice is vinified in stainless steel vats and in barrels (not new). A part of the wine goes through a malolactic fermentation. This cuvée is typically a blend of several vintages with at least 40% being reserve wine. The Champagne rests 48 months “sur lattes” before being disgorged. The dosage is 7g/L.”
From the sandiest soils, an elegant and impressive wine.
Perseval-Farge Premier Cru Terre de Sables Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($69.95) $49 special
Importer note “The Terre de Sables is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. As referenced in its name, the cuvée is made from grapes grown on the domain’s sandiest soils and is sharply marked by it, with notes of marine minerals being supported by bright acidity. This cuvee is a blend of vintages, with 50% of reserve wine. It is held “sur lattes” for four years before disgorgement and finished with a dosage of 7g/L.”
Triolet keeps delivering exceptional value.
Thierry Triolet Vieilles Vignes Blanc de Blancs, Champagne 2012 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
Importer note “The Vieilles Vignes is a vintage Champagne produced only in the best years. It is made entirely from Chardonnay and is harvested from one parcel with vines that are at least 40 years old. Dosage is 9 grams. This cuvée evolves beautifully over time.”
It can be hard to believe this is under $30.
R. Dumont & Fils Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $29 special
R. Dumont & Fils Brut, Champagne NV 375ML ($24.95) $18 special
R. Dumont & Fils Brut, Champagne NV 1.5L ($89.95) $66 special
Case-12 R. Dumont & Fils Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($419.95) $319 special (that’s only $26.58/bottle!)
Importer note “The Dumont Brut NV is a blend of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay. The grapes from their vineyard have qualities that seem less aggressive and more sumptuous than those from the northern districts. In addition, vinification of whole berries at low temperatures enhances this quality of soft elegance. The NV is a blend of vintages typically between two and five years old. It is aged for two years on the lees before disgorgement. Dosage is 9 grams.”
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
This is the only listing for a half bottle in the USA today!
Tis the season for stocking up. Whether you’re buying for a party, for gifts, or because having a “house wine” or two is an especially appealing thing this time of year, you’re going to want to grab a case or two of the same wine. We’ve taken a selection of wines we think would make excellent holiday-season bottles and are adding/reducing some case prices for the month of December. These are all wines that deserve to be bought in bulk this month, at prices that will make you jump.
Want to shop all our Case Specials? Just click here.
Just looking for wines in our December Case Sale? You can shop those by clicking here.
Perpetually the best value in high quality, crowd pleasing Champagne
Case-12 Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($419.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle—the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Importer note “Initially showing a very fresh bouquet of high toned fruits with hints of hazelnuts and yeasty aromas, the Grande Réserve cuvée displays highly structured red fruit notes on the palate for which the area is so famous. Long lees aging, low dosage and Grand Cru Pinot Noir fruit combine for an opulent yet balanced Champagne.”
Similar to the Grand Reserve but leaner and brighter.
Case-12 Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($419.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle—the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Grapelive 93 points “This is some sensationally great bubbly! Jean-François Clouet, who was born and raised in Bouzy, still lives in the 18th century village house built by his ancestors. He takes his lineage seriously and respects his family’s traditions and that of the region, [Bouzy, where he] is a renowned grower producer. Clouet makes a full range of intense and stylish Champagnes, all of which come [from] family plots mostly comprised of 100% Pinot Noir from Clouet’s lieux-dits in the Bouzy zone. The André Clouet “Silver” Grand Cru Brut Nature is a non-vintage, zero dosage Champagne of exceptional class and delicacy. It’s a severe and high-toned 100% Pinot bubbly from mid-slopes around the village of Bouzy set on the chalky limestone and clay. It went through full malo and was aged on its lees in neutral French oak barrel. [This adds] to the surprise of its crisp detail, considering its malo/wood winemaking fashion, though like a great Burgundy it changes and gains with time in the glass adding richness to the tight form it initially shows. If ever there was a Champagne that fits all my wants and desires, then this Clouet, fits the bill. I adore Extra Bruts and Non Dosage styles absolutely best of all and this Andre Clouet Silver kills it for the price! Lemony briskness leads the way with hints of hazelnut, brioche and wet river stones adding a touch of white cherry, unripe apple and cool green melon, all lifted by the pure tight beading of its electric mousse. The Pinot Noir gives a bite of extract which makes this a fantastic food Champagne. It is perfect for oysters, sushi and mussels in spicy broth. It’s not for everyone, but damn it’s good. It’s without question a thinker’s sparkler not a crowd pleaser, which just makes it that much more special.”
From the owner of Cheval Blanc, this is fantastic right now.
Case-12 Chateau Quinault L’Enclos, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2009 750ML ($699.95) Was $588, Now $519 December Case Sale Price (that’s only $43.25/bottle!)
Chateau Quinault L’Enclos, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
James Suckling 93 points “A soft and fruity wine, with orange peel and berries and plums. Full body, with super fine tannins and a fruity finish. Refined and very pretty. Structured in the end. Fresh. Succulent. A style away from the over extracted one a few years ago. Try after 2018.” JS
Wine Spectator 92 points “This is very distinctive, with live-wire acidity running through the core of damson plum, linzer torte and blackberry fruit that’s framed by a mouthwatering roasted apple wood note. The long and driven finish has a piercing iron edge and a smoldering tobacco note that adds to the dramatic profile. Best from 2015 through 2025.” WA
Now it’s even lower!
Case-12 La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($649.95) Was $540, Now $489 December Case Sale Price (that’s only $40.75/bottle!)
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($59.95) $45 special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant, balanced and bright. The pretty luminosity of the wine’s appearance helps to underline this positive impression. The bouquet is nuanced and layered with dried fruit aromas that segue to spice, tar and balsam herb. You get sassy aromas of licorice, tar and cola on the close.”
Ian D’agata-Vinous 93+ points “Bright red. Pure and very flinty nuances complement aromas and flavors of strawberry-rhubarb and wild berries on the nose and palate. Dense and juicy and boasting a focused, penetrating mouthfeel, this finishes long and clean with a very strong note of licorice. Best classico Brunello from La Gerla in some time.”
Chateau Petit Faurie-Quet, Saint-Emilion 2012 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Winery note “From 35 acres in limestone clay soils. 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Aged in 80% new oak barrels and 20% stainless steel vats.”This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Case-6 Domaine Chandon Brut, California NV 1.5L ($219.95) $119 special (that’s only $19.83/bottle!)
Domaine Chandon Brut, California NV 1.5L ($39.95) $21.90 special
Zorzal Eggo Tinto de Tiza, Tupungato 2015 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “The one blend in the Eggo range is the 2015 Eggo Tinto de Tiza, which mixes Malbec with 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon fermented in 2,000-liter egg-shaped cement vats where the wine matured for almost one year. This feels quite complete and balanced, with good ripeness while keeping the balance and poise. The palate is juicy and fresh, with fine-grained tannins and a bittersweet finish akin to sour cherries. Very tasty and long. Super. Incredible for the price. 16,000 bottles were filled in January 2016.”One of the legendary wines of Germany.
Case-6 Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2016 750ML ($359.99) Was $294, Now $259 December Case Sale Price (that’s only $43.17/bottle!)
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese, Nahe 2016 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Stuart Pigott – Jamessuckling.com 96 points “Another 2016 Spätlese from Dönnhoff that’s still a bit shy on the nose, but on the palate it’s like a huge glittering diamond with more facets flashing many colors. An extremely long super-mineral finish that is impeccably clean in spite of the generous grape sweetness in this masterpiece of elegance. Better from 2018 with decades of ageing potential. Made from organic grapes and Fair’n Green certified.”
David Schildknecht-Vinous 94 points “A fascinatingly multifaceted nose incorporates wet stone, leather and almond extract with more familiar white peach, quince and lime. A seductive aura of lily-like perfume hangs over this entire performance. The palate is palpably dense despite alcoholic levity, and subtly creamy while retaining animating primary juiciness. In common with its Brücke sibling, this leans more toward quince as it launches into a finish of honeyed richness – a function of nearly overripe but also nearly botrytis-free berries – yet retaining freshness as well as transparency to crystalline stony mineral nuances. “Under the right conditions,” observed Dönnhoff, “Hermannshöhle delivers something extra in the realm of sweetness, and for that you need cool nights that preserve slightly harder acidity” – which 2016 delivered in spades. Look for significantly more from this bottling after it’s had a decade or so in bottle.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Nahe Riesling Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Spätlese is bright, fresh and coolish-piquant on the nose, with flinty and slightly reductive aromas. Lush and piquant on the palate, this is a generous, mouth-filling Spätlese with a long, piquant and spicy-mineral finish. The Hermannshöhle is more dense and rich on the palate, the Brücke more light, delicate and finessed.”
Terry Theise note “For many people this is a ne plus ultra of Riesling, and they’ll be happy to hear that ’16 is a firm and herbal version of a classic for which the typical descriptors apply. But what you can’t describe is the moment – and there’s always a moment—when the love overcomes your resistance, your doubt or your fear, and you let yourself fall; finally someone sees you, your cells are urging toward her, and hoo boy, this could be bliss; watch out… here goes.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Case-12 Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Saint-Peray, Rhone 2016 750ML ($319.95) Was $288, Now $259 December Case Sale Price (that’s only $21.58/bottle!)
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Saint-Peray, Rhone 2016 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “This team has made a terrific 2016 Saint-Péray, (50/50 Marsanne and Roussanne aged in 15% new oak) from an appellation that continues to produce more and more outstanding wines. Honeysuckle, white flowers, caramelized peach and white currant notes give way to a pure, elegant, layered white that has terrific purity and length. It’s going to drink beautifully for 3-4 years or more.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Pale yellow-gold. Fresh and incisive on the nose, displaying vibrant citrus and orchard fruit scents complemented by hints of honeysuckle and chalky minerals. Shows very good depth of flavor but comes off lithe, offering juicy Meyer lemon and bitter pear skin flavors that pick up a spicy ginger note on the back half. Closes very long and precise, delivering a firm snap of minerality and lingering floral character.”
Bethel Heights Vineyard ‘Aeolian’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Expressive and powerfully built, with vibrant black raspberry and orange peel aromas that open to a vibrant core of tannins and acidity, wrapped in dynamic cherry and spice flavors. Best from 2020 through 2025.”
We just secured a small parcel of Biondi-Santi Annata from the fantastic 2012 vintage, arriving in one week. These are hard bottles to come by, with demand high and production unfortunately low (there’s a reason the bottles are individually numbered). We have a mere five cases (60 bottles) arriving next Friday and they’re sure to go quickly, so step up if you love Brunello.
Arriving December 14th:
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Annata, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 750ML ($199.95) $169 pre-arrival special
Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Underbrush, ripe berry, new leather and Mediterranean herb aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Showing youthful tension, the vibrant palate delivers red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and pipe tobacco notes framed by bright acidity and taut, refined tannins. It already shows great balance and finesse but is still young and tight. Drink 2022-2035.”
James Suckling 95 points “Love the dried lemon rind, florals and red fruits. Medium to full body and a solid core of fruit and spices. Long and flavorful finish. Just a hint of sweet tobacco. Better in 2020.”
Thanks for reading!