Saturday, May 16, 2015
Just in Time – 48 Hour Sale; Toro Wine – Teso la Monja; A Dozen Dozen Deals; Chateau La Mascaronne; Hubert Lignier – Family Feud: Burgundy Edition; Drink Pink; Vilmart Champagne
48 Hour Sale
Ends at 6 am Monday, May 18th
Schrader Cellars RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($449.95) Was $419, Now $298, 2 bottles available
Robert Parker 96-100 points “The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS is one of the potential candidates for perfection. Half the crop was thinned out and the result is a wine with incredible aromas of lead pencil shavings, licorice, creme de cassis, blueberry liqueur, roasted coffee beans and vanilla. The good news is there are 625 cases of this sensational wine.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $394
Hundred Acre Ark Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain 2007 750ML ($599.95) Was $499, Now $449, 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 100 points “A perfect wine, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard (1,300 – 1,400 cases) from Howell Mountain is one of the great efforts from this high elevation terroir. It offers notes of burning embers, black raspberries, blueberries and flowers, a full-bodied opulence, wonderful intensity, but the wine is not weighty or overripe. Fleshy and voluptuous with terrific floral notes, it should drink well for 15-20 years. From meticulous harvesting berry by berry rather than grape bunch by grape bunch, to an obsessive/compulsive barrel regime as well as winemaking, Hundred Acre is the Napa outpost of visionary and a genius – Jayson Woodbridge” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $535
The average price is $674
Giacomo Conterno Cascina Francia Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2009 750ML ($179.95) Was $131.90, Now $128, 39 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “The 2009 Barolo Cascina Francia is a stunning wine. Roberto did not make Monfortino in 2009, therefore that wine was declassified and added here. The results are truly spectacular. The wine shows the soft fullness that is characteristic of the vintage, backed by tight tannins that pull the wine together. Dark fruit, licorice, chopped herb, white truffle, tar and pressed rose form a united aromatic front. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035.” WA
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Conterno’s 2009 Barolo Cascina Francia wraps around the palate with gorgeous depth. A wine of volume and breadth, the 2009 fleshes out beautifully on the palate with layers of harmonious, silky fruit. Sweet tobacco, mint, flowers, spices and the most beautiful pure fruit all flesh out on the voluptuous, inviting finish. All the elements are in place for the 2009 to develop into a superb Barolo, but readers will have to be patient as the wine was just bottled. I remember what happened the last time Conterno bottled a Cascina Francia, but no Monfortino. The vintage was 2007, and I deeply regretted not having purchased that wine.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $160
M. Chapoutier Cote Rotie La Mordoree, Rhone 2010 750ML ($179.95) Was $133, now $119, 32 bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “Packed, with layers of charcoal and tar covering the well-endowed core of braised fig, blackberry pâte de fruit and pastis-soaked plum for now. Alder, olive and bay line the finish, with a terrific graphite spine lending support. Best from 2019 through 2030.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $157
M. Chapoutier Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne, Rhone 2007 750ML ($129.95) Was $89, Now $79, 20 bottles available
Robert Parker 90-93 points “The 2007 Ermitage La Sizeranne displays a similar deep ruby/purple-tinged color in addition to sweet aromas of raspberries, black currants, smoke, gun flint, and spice. This full-bodied, well-made wine reveals outstanding richness, purity, and overall balance. Consume it over the next 15-20 years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $119
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Toro, Toro, Toro Wine!
Arriving Tuesday, May 19th
Shortly after the success of Numanthia, the first wine to bring the Spanish region of Toro international fame, importer Jorge Ordonez and the Eguren winemaking family found a slightly cooler site to source fruit for another Toro wine: Teso La Monja. Toro is a long-overlooked Spanish region (aren’t they all?) that offers a winemaker’s dream combination of poor soils and old vines. The winery bottles 100% Tinto de Toro, the region’s indigenous clone of Tempranillo.
Familia Eguren Teso La Monja Romanico, Toro 2012 750ML ($17.95) $11.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2012 Romanico (1,500 cases produced) is made from 100% Tinta de Toro (the local name for Tempranillo), and is aged for six months in a combination of new and used French oak. Malolactic is done in oak, and the result is full-bodied, opaque purple-colored wine with superb richness as well as lots of blackberry, charcoal and cassis intermixed with licorice, new saddle leather, pepper and bouquet garni. This nearly viscous red should drink beautifully for 7-10 years.”
Josh Raynolds- Vinous 91 points “Brilliant ruby. Expansive, highly perfumed aromas of black and blue fruits, allspice, vanilla and woodsmoke. Spicy and seamless on the palate, offering sweet boysenberry and cherry compote flavors given bite by a suggestion of black pepper. A sexy floral note comes up on the finish, which hangs on with excellent focus and persistence.”
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A Case of Vinsanity – A Dozen DozenDeals
We at Vinopolis seek to offer some of the lowest listed prices in the USA on each bottle. When our distributors offer us screaming deals on larger volumes, we load up and pass further discounts along to you as case price specials. Below are twelve of these great values from around the world – a small fraction of the case deals we offer!
Case-12 Deutz Brut Rose, Champagne NV 375ML ($259.95) $228 case price special, 2 cases available (that’s only $19/half-bottle!)
Deutz Brut Rose, Champagne NV 375ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ half-bottles available
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The NV Brut Rosé is fabulous. A sweet, open bouquet leads to expressive fruit in this rich, textured wine. The Deutz Rosé is a serious wine that can be enjoyed as an aperitif, but it also has more than enough power in reserve to drink well at the dinner table. Floral notes reappear to round out the finish. The blend is 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay. This is Lot LA111D31410. — Antonio Galloni”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Firm and fresh, this is lightly chalky in texture, displaying a delicate mesh of white cherry, wild strawberry and white peach fruit, with notes of ground ginger, smoke and blanched almond. Elegant, with a lasting finish. Drink now through 2018.”WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.95/half-bottle
Case-12 Domaine des Cassagnoles Gros Manseng, IGP Cotes de Gascogne 2014 750ML ($149.95) $99 case price special, 5+ cases available (that’s only $8.25/bottle!)
Domaine des Cassagnoles Gros Manseng, IGP Cotes de Gascogne 2014 750ML ($14.95) $9.90 special, 36+ bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $11.99/bottle
Case-12 Joseph Carr Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2013 750ML ($249.95) $179 case price special, 2 cases available (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Joseph Carr Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles available
Winemaker notes “Wet stone, apricot, strawberry, vanilla, and peach in the nose. Rich attack with good acidity and length. Bright citrus, apricot with a finish of strawberry, hints of vanilla and lemon.”
Case-12 Georges Duboeuf Domaine Jean-Ernest Descombes Morgon, Beaujolais 2011 750ML ($179.95) $99 case price special, 2 cases available (that’s only $8.25/bottle!)
Georges Duboeuf Domaine Jean-Ernest Descombes Morgon, Beaujolais 2011 750ML ($17.95) $9.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “Like berries freshly picked on a summer day, the raspberry and strawberry notes here are ripe and pure, mixing with hints of pekoe tea leaf, mineral, ground anise and damson preserves. An elegant and balanced version. Drink now through 2018.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $13.59/bottle
Case-12 Antucura Cabernet Sauvignon, Vista Flores, Argentina 2012 750ML ($219.95) $159 case price special, 4 cases available (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Antucura Cabernet Sauvignon, Vista Flores, Argentina 2012 750ML ($19.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Good deep red. Musky aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, fresh herbs and tobacco leaf. Sweet, gentle and fat with fruit; more open-knit in the middle than the malbec. Then tightens up on the back end, finishing with a more classic dryness.” ST
This is the only listing in the USA!
Case-12 Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($249.95) $179 case price special, 5+ cases available (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Enthusiast “This full-bodied, concentrated wine is dry, quite firm and tannic in texture. It smells rich and a bit earthy, and tastes like blackberries, cranberries and beef. The style will accompany rich, meaty food very well.”
Case-12 Atalon Pauline’s Cuvee, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($359.95) $199 case price special, 5+ cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Atalon Pauline’s Cuvee, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles avaialble
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This Merlot-based blend is a huge success. It’s a big, tannic, tight wine, packed to bursting with black cherry liqueur, cola and spice flavors. Yet it maintains an exciting balance, with the tension between acids, tannins and oak in equilibrium. Seems like it wants 5-6 years in the cellar to let it throw some tannins and mellow.” WE
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $22.90/bottle
Case-12 Girard Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($249.95) $199 case price special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Girard Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 9 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points “Loaded with ripe, jammy fruit, this has just enough structure to stay light-footed, with black cherry, toasty oak and spice aromas. Drink now through 2019.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $22/bottle
Case-12 Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($279.95) $239 case price special, 2 cases available (that’s only $19.92/bottle!)
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 89+ points “The 2012 Chianti Classico is a great introduction to the wines of Felsina. Deeply varietal and expressive to the core, the 2012 graces the palate with the essence of Sangiovese from the southern part of the Chianti Classico zone. Sweet tobacco, underbrush, menthol, licorice and black cherries flow through to the finish, but it is the wine’s sheer balance that impresses most of all. This is a gorgeous mid-weight Chianti Classico to drink over the next decade plus.” AG
Case-12 Girard Napa County Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($319.95) $249 case price special, 2 cases available (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
Girard Napa County Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 33 bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $27/bottle
Case-12 Tensley Colson Canyon Vineyard Syrah, Santa Barbara County 2013 750ML ($499.95) $419 case price special, 5 cases available (that’s only $34.92/bottle!)
Tensley Colson Canyon Vineyard Syrah, Santa Barbara County 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 94-97 points “The largest-scaled Colson Canyon to date, the 2013 Syrah Colson Canyon is classic cassis, black raspberry, graphite and toasty notes to go with a full-bodied, concentrated and layered profile on the palate. This got a big “Wow” in the notes, and while it doesn’t pull any punches with regards to fruit or texture, it stays lively and elegant. It will have 10-15 years of longevity” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $39.39/bottle
Case-12 Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau, Rhone 2012 750ML ($899.95) $679 case price special, 5 cases available (that’s only $58.25/bottle!)
Vignobles Brunier Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau, Rhone 2012 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Rock-solid, with a hefty core of fig, blackberry and black cherry fruit, wrapped in chestnut and tobacco leaf notes and carrying through a lavender- and tar-framed finish. Dense and grippy, showing a slightly old-school shading. Should cellar well. Best from 2016 through 2030.” WS
Robert Parker 93-95 points “The top wine of the estate, the 2012 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape (which is always a blend of 65% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault and other grapes, from 65-year-old vines) is a classic example of the cuvee and possesses gorgeous aromatics (kirsch, garrigue, big minerality and background meatiness), medium to full-bodied richness and a firm, tannic spine. As is common, it will require a handful of years in the cellar to come around and have 15+ years of longevity. Drink 2016-2027.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $82/bottle
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Chateau La Mascaronne
A Rosé by Any Other Name
Tom Bove and his family purchased the Miraval estate in 1993 after touring the region. In 1999, he jumped at the chance to purchase the neighboring Chateau La Mascaronne estate. After selling most of Chateau Miraval to certain famous actors, he wisely retained La Mascaronne and some of Miraval’s prime vineyards. The Chateau overlooks the medieval village of Le Luc in the Cotes de Provence appellation. The 45 hectares of vineyards are on stony limestone and clay hillsides, sheltered from winds and weather by an encompassing oak and pine forest. The vineyards are at 300m in altitude.
Bove sustainably manages the vineyards and winery at the heart of the estate. The vineyard yields are kept low and grapes are hand-harvested into small containers before being transferred to the winery. He is in the process of converting to organic.
Keep on the lookout for the Chateau la Mascaronne white arriving later this year!
Chateau la Mascaronne Wines Newly Arrived
Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 24 bottles available
Case-12 Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Winery note “Syrah with Cabernet Sauvignon. Powerful, complex nose with intense aromas of dark berries and cherry with generous palate of red and black fruits and a long spicy finish.”
Vinopolnote: superb; better than Miraval ever was; way better than it ever will be.
Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Fazioli Rouge, Provence 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 24 bottles available
Case-12 Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Fazioli Rouge, Provence 2012 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Winery note “Cinsault, Grenache. Beautiful pale colour yet with intense nose of peach and lemon with large depth of flavor and remarkably long finish.”
Vinopolnote: tres tres elegante! Lovers of mid weight nuanced reds..come here.
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Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:
We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason. Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
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Hubert Lignier – full circle, it’s a family affair…
Hubert Lignier had a well-established reputation for the quality of his wines produced from his estate holdings in and around Morey St. Denis, including the famed Clos de la Roche. When Hubert retired, he originally passed the domaine to his son, Romain. And winemaking became, well,,, more progressive. Romain fell ill and passed not long after his father transferred the domaine to him. His inexperienced American wife, Kellen, took over the domaine against the wishes of Hubert and, arguably, to the further detriment of the domaine-labeled wines. However, Hubert retained the vineyard parcels that had not been fully transferred to Romain and founded a ‘new’ domaine with his other son, Laurent, named Hubert Lignier Père et Fils. He also retains some of the production of Kellen’s vineyards. Laurent works closely with his father to produce again the traditionally-styled wines for which the domaine was (and once again is) duly famous.
The domaine consists of just over 8 hectares of vines in Morey Saint Denis, Gevrey Chambertin and Chambolle Musigny, with recent parcels added from Nuits Saint Georges and Pommard. In the vineyard, attentive care is taken in all aspects to ensure the best possible wine is produced from the heathiest grapes that are true to the character of the vineyards. They follow “lutte raisonnée” to minimize the use of chemicals in the vineyard. Green harvesting helps ensure proper ripeness levels and is used when necessary. Vines are propagated using cuttings from the same vineyard (“sélection massale”). Harvest takes place in waves, with unhealthy grapes removed before mature grapes are picked to minimize contamination. At the winery, fermentation is in open-top tanks with natural yeasts.
Domaine Hubert Lignier Wines Arriving in June 2015
Domaine Hubert Lignier Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Domaine Hubert Lignier Gevrey-Chambertin 2012 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni “Moderately saturated pale red. Diffuse red fruits, earth and white truffle on the nose. Then spicy, supple and sweet in the mouth; easygoing and rather slight, with round, accessible flavors of strawberry and raspberry dominating. Finishes with sweeter tannins than the Gevrey La Justice.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $83.99
Domaine Hubert Lignier Morey-Saint-Denis Tres Girard 2012 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 88-90 points “The 2012 Morey-Saint-Denis Tres Girard comes from a parcel behind the winery close to the cemetery. It has a light but fragrant, well-defined, pretty bouquet that some might argue is missing a little vigor. The palate is medium-bodied with chalky tannins on the entry. Nicely balanced with good backbone on the finish that carries the 20% new oak well. Fine.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $83.99
Domaine Hubert Lignier Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes 2012 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni “The 2012 Chambolle-Musigny is soft, racy and succulent from start to finish. Sweet red berries, plums, spices, mint and raspberries all flesh out in the glass. The style is racy, supple and perfumed throughout. The tannins are a bit firm, but another few years in bottle should do the trick. This is a gorgeous wine from Lignier.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Hubert Lignier Les Chaffots, Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($219.95) $179 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93-95 points “The 2012 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru Les Chaffots is more backward and coy than the La Riotte out of barrel, but it unfurls with a little coaxing to reveal some lovely, broody black fruit infused with forest floor aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp, mineral-rich opening. At its core is structured, tertiary black fruit but it displays impressive intensity before leading you down a dark alley on the introspective finish. This will require several years to spring open. Cellar this whilst enjoying the La Riotte.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $209.99
Domaine Hubert Lignier Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($399.95) $299 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92-94 points “The 2012 Charmes-Chambertin (from Mazoyères) comes across as a bit raw and not fully formed just yet. Still, there is plenty to admire in the focused, direct flavors. Dark red and black fruit, violets, dried rose petals, spices and licorice are all woven together in a resonant, expressive Burgundy. This is surprisingly open for a young Mazoyères, which makes me think the 2012 will drink well with minimum cellaring.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $399.99
Domaine Hubert Lignier Clos de la Roche Grand Cru 2012 750ML ($799.95) $699 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 98-100 points “The 2012 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru comes from the family’s own 0.82-hectare of fruit located in the lieux-dits of “Les Fremieres” (one-third of the holding) and in “Monts Luisants” (two-thirds). There are just four barrels this year and that includes 20% whole cluster fruit. It already offers an enthralling, pure bouquet with heavenly scented blackberry, raspberry and pressed roses that are supremely well delineated. As usual, the palate is extremely intense although there is a sense of finesse suffused into this grand cru from beginning to end. This Clos de la Roche frankly soars over its peers, a wine that seems so effortless that is you are left totally under its spell. This might well be the greatest 2012 Burgundy.” WA
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Think Pink / Drink Pink!
Alois Lageder Lagrein Rose Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy 2013 750ML ($17.95) $11.90 special, 32 bottles available
Winery notes “Pink colour with ruby hints. Quite pronounced, fruity aroma (red berries) with floral impressions (violets). Medium-bodied smooth fruit on the palate, fresh. Long lasting aftertaste with an elegant bitter twist.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $16
Domaine Les Aphillanthes Cote du Rhone Rose, Rhone 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 23 bottles available
VinopolNote: Cinsault-based Southern Rhone blend.
Ayres Rose of Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 23 bottles available
Winery note “We deliberatly pick this block of Pinot Noir specifically for our Rose. We find our eastern-most Pommard rows offers a nice spicy element to this Rose. Get a sneak peek into the 2014 vintage with this Rose of Pinot Noir. Fruity, earthy, and spicy – everything for which our Pinot Noirs are known!”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Bethel Heights Vineyard Rose 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 18 bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $26.94
Chateau de Trinquevedel Tavel Cuvee Traditionelle Rose, Rhone 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 5 bottles available
Case-12 Chateau de Trinquevedel Tavel Cuvee Traditionelle Rose, Rhone 2013 750ML ($219.95) $179 special, 1 case available (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Stephen Tanzer 89 points (56% grenache, 20% cinsault, 10% clairette, 4% syrah, 4% bourboulenc, 3% mourvedre and 3% grenache blanc): “Light, bright orange. Ripe red berries and pit fruits on the deeply perfumed nose, with a subtle mineral quality adding lift. Fleshy and supple, offering juicy raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a hint of candied rose. Finishes with good breadth and length, leaving a note of peach pit behind.”-JR
Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 24 bottles available
Case-12 Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose, Provence 2014 ($249.95) $199 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Winery note “Cinsault, Grenache. Beautiful pale colour yet with intense nose of peach and lemon with large depth of flavour and remarkably long finish.”
Cayuse Vineyards Edith Armada Vineyard Grenache Rose, Walla Walla Valley 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 91 points “Looking like a white wine, with barely any pink color, the 2012 Grenache Rose Edith is nevertheless a gorgeous effort that will be hard to beat on a hot summer day. Juicy and lively, with tangerine, grapefruit and citrus aromas and flavors, this medium-bodied drinker has fabulous purity, refreshing acidity and a clean finish. I’d enjoy it over the coming summer months. ” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $57.99
Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Chateau Peyrassol’ Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($31.95) $27 special, 3 bottles available
Importer note “This is the elite cuvée of the estate relying as it does on grapes harvested from the oldest vines of the domaine (35 years and older). Principally composed of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah, the “Chateau” bottling also sees the addition, from time-to-time of Tibouren, the ancient and regal Provencale grape. This Rosé is produced via the “direct press” method and has a long cuvaison designed to produce a wine of character and concentration. Vinified in stainless steel and bottled in late winter – early spring, production is quite limited.”
Chateau Pradeaux Bandol Rose, Provence 2013 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 33 bottles available
Importer note “The Bandol Rosé from Pradeaux is perhaps the most serious wine in this category. Robust, rich, and complex with an ability to age gracefully, this wine is based on Cinsault (50%) and Mourvèdre (50%), taking its slight orange tint from the latter cépage. The younger vines of the domaine (average age: 25 years) are utilized to produce a rare rosé with staying power and exceptional complexity. The Rosé is vinified by a direct pressing for 24 hours followed by fermentation in cement tanks at a controlled temperature of 18 degrees Celsius for about 15 days; the malo-lactic fermentation is blocked and the wine is usually bottled in mid-April of the following year. We import approximately 600 cases (7200 bottles) annually of this exceptional wine.”
Clos Canos Corbieres Rose, Languedoc-Roussillon 2013 750ML ($13.95) $9.90 special, 31 bottles available
From the winery: “Light pink. Nose: very fine and floral; palate: full and fleshy. 25% Grenache Gris, 25% Grenache Blanc, 25% Grenache Noir, 25% Syrah. From clay limestone vineyards.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Clos Sainte Magdeleine Cassis Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36 bottles available
Clos Sainte Magdeleine Cassis Rose, Provence 2014 1.5L ($89.95) $79 special, 2 magnums available
Winery note “Grenache: Principal grape variety strong and heady: 45% – Cinsault: Fresh and fruity, low in acidity, perfect for the blend: 40% – Mourvedre: Tannic and strong body: 15%. Delicate wild flowers aromas. The palate is redolent of ripe, red berry fruits. Fresh underlying acidity and crisp finish.”
Domaine de la Berangeraie Cahors Rose 2013 750ML ($11.95) $9.90 special, 1 bottle available
100% Malbec. Organic.
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Les Griottes Rose, Beaujolais 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 20 bottles available
100% Gamay
Domaine de la Pepiere ‘La Pepie’ Rose Cabernet Franc, IGP Val de Loire 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 15 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 87 points “Bright pink. Pungent aromas of redcurrant and cherry pit, with subtle floral and herbal nuances adding complexity. Dry and chewy on the palate, offering bitter cherry and orange pith flavors and a touch of white pepper. Finishes somewhat rigid and tight, with echoing florality and good length.”JR
Edmunds St. John Bone-Jolly Gamay Rose, El Dorado County 2014 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 10 bottles available
VinopolNote: Grown in volcanic clay and loam soils on gentle hills. 94% from Witters Vineyard, 6% from Barsotti Ranch. Fermented in stainless steel, no malo.
Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir Rose, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 7 bottles available
Winery note “The fruit for this all Pinot Noir Rosé is hand-harvested from Elk Cove’s estate vineyards. A hue of dusky rose and aromas of guava, sweet mandarin and hints of camellia. Spice notes flavored of crystalized ginger compliment ripe Rainier cherry and caramelized orange. Weight in the mid-palate finishes with sweet lemongrass highlighting the delicate balance to this textured Rosé.”
Eric Chevalier Val de Loire Rosé “Grolleau” 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36 bottles available
VinopolNote: 100% Grolleau Noir from 20 year old vines.
Ermitage du Pic Saint-Loup Classique Rose, Languedoc-Roussillon 2013 1.5L ($47.95) $29 special, 5 magnums available
Winery note “[Translated] Pale color. Notes of red fruits, strawberry, raspberry with a floral side dominate the nose. The palate is lively.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Haden Fig Rose of Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 9 bottles available
VinopolNote: Pinot Gris with extended skin contact. 75 cases made.
Chateau Henri Bonnaud Cotes de Provence Sainte-Victoire Terre Promise Rose, Provence 2013 750ML ($21.95) $16 special, 11 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 88 points “A fruity wine, it shows ripe red berries, red currants and refreshing acidity. So while the wine has weight, it is also totally fresh and crisp. It’s a rosé for food, rich while balanced.” WE
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Illahe Tempranillo Estate Rose, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 9 bottles available
Winery note “The 2014 Illahe Vineyards Tempranillo Rosé is a whole-cluster pressed, resulting in a delicate rosé with a pale salmon color. Aromas of Strawberries and cream, whith a crisp, fleshy palate; it will make a great partner for fresh fruit and cheese.”
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J. Christopher ‘Cristo Irresisto’ Rose, Oregon 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 6 bottles available
Winery note “This easy-drinking, passionate pink wine is a blend of mostly Grenache and Syrah, sourced from vineyards on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge. Simply irresistible.”
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Domaine de La Janasse Cotes du Rhone Rose 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 10 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 89 points “Light orange-pink. An array of ripe red berry and citrus fruit aromas are lifted by a bright mineral element. Chewy and broad in the mouth, offering sappy raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that tighten up slowly with air. Finishes on a stony note, with lingering spiciness and a touch of lavender.” JR
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Love & Squalor Rose of Gewurztraminer “A Frayed Knot,” Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special, 35 bottles available
Winery note “Love & Squalor 2014 ‘A Frayed Knot’ Rosé of Gewurztraminer is truly a singular wine from the 1971 Sunnyside Vineyard. The color is a pale coral from a long cold skin maceration and was fermented dry in Pinot barrels. It has a floral and sweet nose, medium weight body and a nice mineral finish.”
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Omero Cellars Omero Vineyard Rose of Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2013 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 special, 3 bottles available
Winery note “This single-block Estate Rose was picked prior to any other Pinot Noir specifically for the purpose of producing an expressive but refined Rose. Both rich and bright in style, this wine is balanced with juicy flavors of red fruits, fresh flowers and subtle dried herbs.”
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M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche Rose, Loire 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Winery note “[Translated] Here is a rosé that has both aromatic freshness and roundness. Its very light pink color gives an impression of lightness and elegance. Its expressive bouquet of strawberries and raspberry invites us to dip our lips. The round mouth, long and fresh awakens the taste buds and makes us want to return. A fresh and elegant rosé to enjoy with friends.”
Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Terre de Maimbray Rose, Loire 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
100% old vine Pinot Noir
Domaine Saint Aix Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Aix Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points “Light, bright pink. Ripe red berries and tangerine on the deeply scented nose and in the mouth. Round and fleshy, with a hint of white pepper adding back-end lift and bite. Closes supple, broad and gently spicy, with good cling and a touch of succulent herbs.” JR
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Rose, Rhone 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 11 bottles available
80% Cinsault, 20% Grenache
Rose Wines Arriving in June
Chateau de Calavon Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Rose, Provence 2014 ($19.95) $16 pre-arrival special
Grenache and Cinsault
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Domaine Collotte Marsannay Rose, Cote de Nuits 2014 750ML ($19.95) $18 pre-arrival special
100% Pinot Noir
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Domaine Charvin Cotes du Rhone Rose, Rhone 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 pre-arrival special
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Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Bandol Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Grenache, Syrah & Mourvedre
Chateau de Manissy Tavel Rose, Rhone 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 pre-arrival special
Winery note “This strong aromatic wine, prolongs its freshness by an elegant and harmonious finish.
Start your evening with this young and modern drink!”
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Vilmart & Cie
“Vilmart & Cie. is not only one of the greatest grower-estates in Champagne, but one of the finest champagne producers of any type in the region.” -Peter Liem, Champagneguide.net
“It’s clear to me Vilmart is a Champagne estate of unassailable consequence, a must-have for anyone Interested in the possibilities of this most suavely powerful and graceful of all wines.” -Terry Thiese, Wine Importer
Désiré Vilmart founded Vilmart & Cie. in the Montagne de Reims region of Champagne in 1890. In 1989 Laurent Champs became the fifth generation of the family to own and operate the estate. The estate has been exclusively a récoltant-manipulant, producing what is commonly referred to as Grower Champagne, since its foundation. The 27 acres of vineyard land is composed entirely of Premier Cru sites lying primarily in the small village of Rilly-la-Montagne with some in the neighboring village of Villers-Allerand.
Vilmart & Cie. grows their grapes organically and sustainably without herbicides and chemicals. Champs sees himself as a winemaker first and a Champagne maker second. He carefully ferments and ages his wine in casks and barrels of various size and newness. The wines do not undergo malolactic fermentation. His vinification results in wines that show notes of oak that integrate gracefully with a couple years of bottle age and show beautifully into maturity.
Vilmart & Cie Champagnes Arriving May 18th
Vilmart & Cie Coeur de Cuvee Premier Cru Brut 2004 1.5L ($399.95) $379 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “A totally dazzling wine, the 2004 Coeur de Cuvée (magnum) has acquired lovely complexity and nuance over the last few years. Mirabelle plums, savory herbs and crushed rocks all take shape in the glass in a Champagne loaded with aromatic nuance and complexity. The 2004 stands out for its remarkable precision and elegance. This is a great showing from Vilmart. This bottle was disgorged in August 2013. Dosage is 8 grams per liter.” AG
Vilmart & Cie Champagnes Arriving May 21st
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Well-spiced, this Champagne is open-knit and airy in texture, with bright, juicy acidity and flavors of gingerbread, yellow plum, slivered almonds, chalk and citrus. A crowd-pleaser, with a long, mouthwatering finish. -AN”
Vilmart & Cie Cuvee Rubis Brut Rose NV 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “(90% pinot noir and 10% chardonnay, from 2010 and 2009; aged on its lees for 15 months and disgorged in September, 2012): Pale pink. High-pitched raspberry, floral pastille and spicecake aromas are deepened by notes of iodine and anise. Silky and seamless on the palate, offering intense red berry flavors and a hint of honeysuckle. Finishes sappy and long, with exotic spice and floral nuances and lingering minerality.” ST
Wine Spectator 93 points “Smoke and graphite notes underscore the ripe strawberry and cherry fruit in this lacy, finely meshed rosé Champagne, accented by ginger biscuit and ground clove notes. Fresh and mouthwatering, presenting a lasting, chalky finish. -AN”
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The average price is $86
Vilmart & Cie Champagnes Available Here Now
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier d’Or Premier Cru Brut 2009 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 5 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous Media 93 points “Green-tinged straw. Pungent, mineral-laced aromas of fresh pear, honey, jasmine and anise. Densely packed orchard and citrus fruit flavors are sharpened by a jolt of zesty minerality, picking up iodine and leesy elements with aeration. Refreshingly bitter and focused on the finish, with the mineral and floral notes repeating.” JR
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Vilmart’s 2009 Grand Cellier d’Or is utterly striking in its beauty. Open and resonant, the 2009 is a wine that will drink well upon release given the warm, open personality of the year. Almonds, citrus, pastry and spice notes flesh out on the expressive, layered finish. The blend is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir. All of the Vilmart Champagnes spend ten months in cask and do not undergo malolactic fermentation.” AG
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The next best price is $84.95
Vilmart & Cie Coeur de Cuvee Premier Cru Brut 2005 750ML ($179.95) $119 special, 7 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “(made from a blend of 80% chardonnay and 20% pinot noir; aged on its less for 78 months and disgorged in December 2012): Bright yellow. Sexy, smoke-tinged aromas of ripe citrus fruits, poached pear and candied ginger. Spicy, penetrating and pure, offering intense Meyer lemon and bitter pear skin flavors plus hints of honeysuckle and chamomile. Shows impressive urgency and focus on the finish, with the floral note echoing.” ST
Wine Advocate 93 points “Named for its being derived solely from the heart of the pressing, Vilmart’s 2005 Brut Coeur de Cuvee – aged in small barrels one-third each new, once- and twice-previously used and only disgorged after 7 years – opens with an expressive bouquet of iris, gentian, and hyacinth, behind which come intimations of the noble mushrooms, oyster liquor, and nut oils that go on to inform an at once satiny and vivacious palate. White pepper and crystalline mineral impingements in the mouthwateringly mineral and umami-rich finish testify to a transparency, clarity and buoyancy seldom found in the often problematically earthy and diffuse Champagnes of this vintage. Feel free to follow this for several more years.” WA
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The next best price is $129
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier Cuvee Rubis Brut Rose 2009 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 6 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous Media 95 points “Bright orange. Racy, mineral-accented aromas of strawberry, blood orange and tea rose, plus a subtle note of toasty lees. Bitter berry skin and citrus pith flavors give way to deeper raspberry in the middle, with chalky minerality adding spine and cut. Dry, focused and concentrated, finishing with superb power and length and lingering mineral and floral notes.” JR
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Vilmart’s 2009 Brut Premier Cru Grand Cellier Rubis is fabulous. A rich, deep rosé, the 2009 is all about texture. Layers of fruit open up in the glass in a silky, aromatically expressive Champagne loaded with class. The radiant, resonant style, so typical of the year, is on full display. The Grand Cellier Rubis remains one of the most polished, compelling wines in Champagne. The 2009 is another drop-dead gorgeous showing from Vilmart and proprietor Laurent Champs. The Grand Cellier Rubis is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay.” AG