Weekend Newsletter 2-11-22

In This Newsletter:

Just Landed:
New Arrivals from around the world 


Newly Reviewed and In Stock Now:

Newly Reviewed Wines Arriving Friday, February 18th:

Mars and Venus:
Valentine’s Day selections P3

   
Cantalupo
The Count of Monte Rosa  


Collector’s Corner: 
2010 Jadot 

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This Shop Never Closes: www.vinopoliswineshop.com
We’re Open for In-Store Shopping!
10AM – 6PM Daily
We also offer Curbside Pickup
Order Online / By Phone / By Email

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Just Landed:
New Arrivals from around the world 


Oregon: Willamette Valley

Vincent Pinot Blanc Willamette Valley 2020 750ML ($21.95) $18.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Vincent Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($24.95) $22.75 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery note
 “Like the Ribbon Ridge bottling, the Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills reflects what is special about its appellation. The wine is fruit from Zenith, Bjornson and Temperance Hill vineyards, blended and bottled after 10 months of aging in older French oak. A signature element of the Eola-Amity Hills is the wind. Each afternoon during the growing season, ocean breezes come through the coast range and cool the western valley including the Eola-Amity Hills. This translates in the wines as structure – acid from the cooler afternoons and nights, and tannin from the grapes growing just a bit tougher in the wind. They’re subtle differences, but you can taste them. The 2019 is classic Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir, with red raspberries fruit, all the red fruit sweetness with the tang of a proper raspberry. The aromas are a bit lifted in the 2019, giving a drive to the fragrance of the wine. Where the Ribbon Ridge is a touch broader, the Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir has just a bit more nerve. Good now and for several years. Four barrels produced.”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Vincent Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir Oregon 2019 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 12 bottles in stock now
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Zena Crown Vineyard Slope Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills  2018 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 35 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 96 points
 “A wine of presence and personality, with dynamic black raspberry and guava flavors that take on stony mineral and dusky spice accents as this gathers richness and tension toward broad-shouldered tannins. Best from 2022 through 2032. 487 cases made. — TF”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

California – Napa Valley 

Joseph Phelps Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2018 1.5L ($179.95) $128 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points
 “Very pretty blackberry, blackcurrant, walnut, forest-flower and dark-walnut aromas follow through to a full body with round, juicy tannins that are fine-grained and beautiful. Lovely length and generosity, but reserved at the finish to give it tension. Mostly from the Soscol vineyard. 97% cabernet sauvignon. Drink or hold.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Velvety thick in caramel, oak and rich layers of dark fruit, this wine offers hints of cedar and dried herb that complement and help to make it more complex. Made in a generous, full-bodied style, it shows heft and depth, the tannins structured and robust. -Virginie Boone”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Ripe and lush up front, with waves of cassis, mulled plum and blackberry compote underscored by singed alder and graphite on the finish, adding grip. This is packed and well-built. Best from 2022 through 2032. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 36,000 cases made. — JM”
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is bright, punchy and full of energy. Sweet red berry, mocha, licorice, spice, menthol and a kiss of new French oak all grace the 2018. Plummy and pliant, the 2018 will drink well right out of the gate, but it has the pedigree to develop nicely for a number of years. Most of this fruit is sourced from vineyards in the southern end of the valley.”
Decanter 93 points “From the excellent, solar 2018 vintage in Napa. This has dark and ripe berry fruits on the nose – smells rich and vibrant. The texture is soft and smooth on the tongue but there’s an incredible amount of density and depth to the tannins and overall flavour. The mouth is filled with generous and chewy blackcurrant fruit and a menthol freshness that gives an enjoyably cool finish. Round and powerful. A blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec from estate and grower vineyards in St. Helena, south Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District and the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. The wine was aged for eighteen months in 40% new oak (49% French, 51% American) and 60% one- to two-year-old French and American barrels before bottling. Drinking Window 2023 – 2033.”


France- Champagne 

Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne 2004 750ML ($349.95) $279 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 96 points 
“I am thrilled with the way the 2004 Comtes de Champagne continues to evolve in bottle. A few years ago, the 2004 was quite focused and linear, in the style of the vintage, but more recently, the wine has begun to fill out beautifully. The 2004 remains bright, with a full range of citrus, white flower and mineral nuances that dance on the palate. A brisk, saline-infused finish rounds things out beautifully in a Comtes that impresses for its crystalline purity. I expect the 2004 will always remain a bit cool next to the more opulent 2002, but it is still drop-dead gorgeous.”
Decanter 96 points “It was a dry vintage up to August, which turned exceptionally wet and cool. September saved the vintage with the ideal weather conditions – low rainfall and cool nights. The graceful nose opens to white flowers, ripe apricot and citrus hints. It is tense and refined, with a vivid mineral core balanced by pristine acidity and some toasted notes on the finish. It’s not the most expressive today, but wait for it to awaken. This is built for cellaring. Drinking Window 2025 – 2040.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “A rich and enticing aroma of roasted hazelnut heralds this elegant blanc de blancs, with flavors of pastry, poached apple, crystallized honey and candied ginger riding the finely detailed mousse. This is a touch smoky, presenting a resonant minerality on the finish. Drink now through 2029. 500 cases imported. — AN”

Pascal Doquet ‘Arpege’ Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut Champagne  NV ($69.95) $55 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Importer note 
“Arpège is now the basic, non-vintage wine at the estate, with the “Horizon” bottling now being firmly established in other markets. “Horizon” hails from the Côte du Pertois, south-east of Chalons and east of the Côte de Sézanne. It is a parcel that Pascal’s father planted in 1971. “Arpège” is in a different league; it’s finer in tone and more complex. The chardonnay comes from Vertus, Villeneuve and Mont Aimé—the grapes that are not in the Coeur de Terroir series. The assemblage is 50% 2011, 50% reserve wine. It was bottled in May, 2013 and disgorged March, 2016 with 3.5 grams dosage MCR. There is substantial reserve wine in the blend, preserved in enamel tanks to maintain freshness. Aromas of spice, black tea and pear dominate the flinty-silex soils from the Mont Aimé and lend smokiness and depth to the structure.”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Pascal Doquet ‘Diapason’ Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne  NV ($79.95) $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Importer note
 “‘Diapason’ Le Mesnil-sur-Oger Brut. Pascal’s grandfather consolidated to 1 hectare in which Pascal still owns 60 acres of, including “Les Migraines” where he has very old vines planted in 1929. 45% was fermented in enamel, 20% in neutral barrel. It’s an impressive non-vintage Champagne and is available anywhere. There are aromas of ginger, anise, zest and sandalwood, and the Champagne emphasizes the spicy characteristics of Le Mesnil. The wine finishes with some cut which helps focus the finish.”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Pascal Doquet Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Extra Brut Champagne 2008 750ML ($99.95) $89 special,5 bottles in stock now
Importer note
 “This Champagne is the first in Doquet’s “Coeur de Terroir” series and it comes from the chalk and clay soils from Pascal’s best sites in the mid-slope of Vertus.”

 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Italy- Franciacorta

Berlucchi ’61 Rose Brut Franciacorta DOCG  NV 750ML ($44.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case- 6 Berlucchi ’61 Rose Brut Franciacorta DOCG  750ML ($269) $149 special, (That’s only $24.83 per bottle) 
Wine Enthusiast 92 points
 “Bright and savory, this refreshing, polished sparkler boasts alluring aromas of juicy raspberry, wild cherry, baking spice and a whiff of bread crust. The inviting aromas follow over to the vibrant palate along with a continuous refined perlage. A tangy candied nectarine note closes the finish.”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Enticing aromas and flavors of ripe strawberry and raspberry fruit are set on the fine, lively bead in this clean-cut, mouthwatering rosé, with a chalky underpinning. Lightly spiced on the lingering finish.”
#93 Wine Spectator Top 100 Of 2021 “Classic (Champagne) Method Rose from the most important quality sparkling region in Italy… Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay. It’s just killer! This producer created the Franciacorta sparkling wines in 1961, hence ’61 on the label.”

 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
 
F.X. Pichler Durnsteiner Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2019 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
James Suckling 94 points
 “The perfect introduction to high-end Wachau dry riesling with so much depth and structure, but also plenty of peachy fruit and some nice, minty freshness. Long, very intense and crisp finish. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

F.X. Pichler Loibner Klostersatz Gruner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau 2019 750ML ($41.95) $33 special
James Suckling 93 points
 “Very fresh with great summer-meadow and herbal aromas, married to a medium body that’s full of energy and wet-stone character. Crisp and deep at the finish. Drink now.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

F.X. Pichler Durnsteiner Liebenberg Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
James Suckling 95 points
 “A very striking gruner veltliner that’s seriously introverted, offering so much herbal and licorice character, but almost no fruit. The power is underplayed, the body restrained and the salty finish is still tightly wound. Great aging potential here. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

F.X. Pichler Loibner Gruner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau 2019 750ML ($39.95) $31.90  special
James Suckling 91 points
 “Positively green aromas with so much freshness and energy, but still far removed from anything sauvignon blanc-like. Lovely juicy fruit, but also good depth at the finish. Drink now.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $35

F.X. Pichler “M” Gruner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau 2019 750ML ($119.95) $89 special
James Suckling 98 points 
“Very full-bodied with Grand Cru Burgundy-like personality, but there’s still only a hint of exotic fruit. The tannin-mineral-acidity structure is really extraordinary, because not only does it give the wine such sharp contours, but it also provides a very clean, intense finish. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2019 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd M is from Lucas Pichler’s top Veltliner sites (alone, the Loibenberg makes 50% of the assemblage, but there is also fruit from the Kollmütz and the Mühlpoint), predominantly vinified in oak, but with a monthly bâtonnage to manage the higher alcohol. It has an intense citrus color and opens with a deep, intense and fresh, finely mineral and lemony, refreshingly flinty bouquet with just a very attractive hint of toast and oak. Fine and juicy on the palate, this is a full-bodied, rich, intense, dry and elegant M with a lovely roundness but also mineral tension and this fascinating crystalline acidity that lifts the candied pineapple aromas and the alcohol on the aftertaste. This is a generous but elegant M that has the body and texture of a Rhône wine but the sharp and crystalline acidity of the Wachau. A great wine to enjoy over many years. 14.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in June 2021.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99.98

F.X. Pichler Loibner Burgstall Riesling Federspiel, Wachau 2019 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
James Suckling 92 points
 “Super crisp and crunchy with a slightly tart peach character that is so invigorating. Great mineral freshness at the finish. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $39.98

F.X. Pichler Durnsteiner Kellerberg Riesling Smaragd, Wachau 2019 750ML ($119.95) $95 special
James Suckling 99 points
 “Unbelievably deep and complex, yet so cool, precise and still, this is one of those rare wines that stops you dead in your tracks. Yes, there is super fine, peachy character here and yes, there’s a ton of minerality. But the most important thing is the extremely graceful way in which it glides over the palate and out into the distance. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2019 Ried Kellerberg Riesling Smaragd shows a beautifully ripe and aromatic Muscat aroma in the beginning but also the deep and flinty complexity of the cooler, southeast-facing part of Pichler’s terraced Kellerberg that is close to the forest. Round, lush and intense, again with super aromatic fruit aromas (peaches, passion fruit), amazing finesse and salty crystallinity, this is one of the most fascinating Kellerberg Rieslings I have had. Absolutely adorable in its freshness, elegance and perfect fruit ripeness. A Must Buy for Wachau fans. 13.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in June 2021.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99.98

F.X. Pichler Loibner Loibenberg Riesling Smaragd, Wachau 2019 750ML ($74.95) $66 special
James Suckling 97 points 
“It’s hard to imagine a more attractive and enticing dry riesling than this cornucopia of peach, apricot and mandarin that’s so curvaceous and seductive. However, behind all this extravagance is a firm core and that’s why it doesn’t seem in any way too much. The long, elegant finish teases you gently back to the glass. Drink or hold.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2019 Ried Loibenberg Riesling Smaragd is beautifully clear and radiant in its lime-green color. The nose is terrific in its refreshing mineral and stunningly coolish aromas of limes and lemons, white peach and apricots and crisp paprika notes. Round and lush but refined and crystalline on the palate, this is a tight and crisp, beautifully phenolic and stimulating Riesling with super ripe and almost sweet fruit (extract) but also fine tannins and a crisp and grippy finish. Very elegant. A classic! 13.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in June 2021.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $69.98

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Newly Reviewed and In Stock Now:
 
At this point it goes without saying that Oregon is the epicenter for Burgundian varietals in the United States. Josh Raynolds of Vinous couldn’t have put it better when he mentioned that Oregon Pinot is in the midst of a Golden Age. Across the Willamette Valley you can find stellar examples of Pinot Noir, with several past vintages being masterpieces in their own right. We took liberty of compiling standouts from his writing that we happen to have in stock now, with even more on the way!
 
Sequitur Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 33 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds 96 points
 “Saturated magenta. Powerful red and blue fruit, floral and exotic spice scents show excellent clarity and mineral lift. Sappy, alluringly sweet and penetrating on the palate, offering juicy boysenberry, Chambord, candied violet and star anise flavors that deftly blend depth and vivacity. Shows bright clarity and repeating florality on the strikingly persistent finish, which is framed by smooth, polished tannins.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Beaux Freres ‘The Beaux Freres Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($109.95) $91.90 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 94 points
 “Saturated garnet. Energetic, finely etched red fruit and floral scents pick up smoky mineral, blood orange and baking spice flourishes with air. In a lively style, showing excellent clarity and spicy lift to the juicy raspberry, mulberry and cherry cola flavors. Puts on weight with air, with no loss of energy, and finishes impressively long and precise, the floral and spice notes repeating.”

Bergstrom ‘Cumberland Reserve’ Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton District 2019 750ML ($44.95) $35.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds 93 points 
“Vivid ruby. Musky cherry and red currant aromas, along with hints of botanical herbs and allspice. Gently chewy and focused on the palate, offering bitter cherry, red berry, spicecake and licorice flavors that turn sweeter through the back half. Dusty tannins add shape and grip to the long, spicy finish, which leaves cherry pit and baking spice notes behind.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Colene Clemens Vineyards ‘Dopp Creek’ Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($39.95) $28 special
Josh Raynolds 91 points
 “Full magenta. Musky red and blue fruits, lavender, succulent herbs and a hint of spiciness on the fragrant nose. Smooth and open-knit, offering sweet cherry cola and boysenberry flavors and a smoky topnote. The floral and spice notes recur on a long, subtly chewy finish framed by well-knit, even tannins. 15% new French oak.”

Cristom ‘Eileen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 special , 10 bottles in stock now
Cristom ‘Eileen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 375ML ($41.95) $36 special, 16 half-bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds 96 points
 “Saturated garnet. Vibrant red fruit, floral and exotic spice qualities on the nose; deeper dark berry and licorice notes arrive with air. Juicy and tightly wound on entry, offering appealingly sweet raspberry, boysenberry, cherry cola, candied lavender and allspice flavors and a touch of vanilla. Shows superb clarity and mineral lift on the persistent finish, which features gently firming tannins and repeating cherry, floral and spice notes. 44% whole clusters and 43% new French oak.”

Cristom ‘Marjorie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Cristom ‘Marjorie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 375ML ($41.95) $36 special, 14 half-bottles in stock now 
Josh Raynolds 96 points 
“Bright ruby-red. Assertive red berry, cherry, lavender and incense scents show outstanding clarity and spicy lift. Concentrated yet nervy black raspberry, cherry cola, spicecake and floral pastille flavors pick up a hint of smokiness. A discreet blood orange nuance adds refreshing cut to the strikingly long finish, which features polished tannins and reverberating spice and floral notes. 50% whole clusters and 48% new French oak.”

Cristom ‘Jessie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 375ML ($41.95) $36 special, 7 half-bottles in stock now     
Josh Raynolds 95 points
 “Dark garnet. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh red and blue fruits, Asian spices, botanical herbs and potpourri, and a smoky mineral topnote builds in the glass. Sweet, broad and supple on entry and then tighter in the midpalate, offering bitter cherry, Chambord, spicecake and floral pastille flavors that show sharp delineation and vibrant lift. The cherry note carries strongly through the impressively long, subtly tannic finish, which leaves lavender and baking spice notes behind. 45% whole clusters and 42% new French oak.”

Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML (79.95) $69 special
Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 375ML ($41.95) $36 special 
Josh Raynolds 94 points
 “Deep, vivid red. Vibrant red and blue fruit, floral and incense scents show fine clarity and a strong, spicy topnote. Energetic raspberry, boysenberry, allspice and floral pastille flavors deepen steadily with aeration. Manages to come off rich as well as lithe and finishes smooth and very long, with well-integrated tannins and repeating red fruit and spice notes. 45% whole clusters and 37% new French oak.”

Domaine Drouhin Laurene Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 14 bottles in stock Now
Josh Raynolds 94 points
 “Deep, vivid garnet. Assertive aromas of fresh dark berries, cherry cola, potpourri and exotic spices, along with vanilla and espresso notes that emerge as the wine opens up. Appealingly sweet, fleshy and seamless in texture, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry liqueur, vanilla and spicecake flavors and a suave pastille nuance. Velvety tannins build steadily on the finish, which hangs on with superb, floral- and spice-driven persistence.”

Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($44.95) $39 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds 92 points
 “Saturated crimson. Cherry, blueberry, candied flowers and baking spices on the perfumed nose, along with subtle earth and vanilla flourishes. Smooth and expressive on the palate, offering gently sweet red and blue fruit flavors complemented by woodsmoke and cola nuances. The floral and cherry notes drive a long, subtly tannic finish that shows fine definition and spicy cut.”

J.K. Carriere Provocateur Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($29.95) $24.40 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds 91 points
 “Deep magenta. Spice-accented black raspberry and blueberry on the fragrant nose. Lively and precise in style, offering juicy raspberry and boysenberry flavors that unfurl slowly through the midpalate. Shows a touch of appealing jamminess on the long, smooth finish, which shows just a hint of tannins. 15% new French oak.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Patricia Green Cellars Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Josh Raynolds 93 points
 “Deep, brilliant red. Spice-accented raspberry, boysenberry and candied rose aromas are complicated by suggestions of star anise and incense. Silky, sweet and fleshy in the mouth, offering plush red and blue fruit preserve and exotic spice flavors that pick up floral pastille and botanical herb nuances as the wine opens up. Round, even tannins add shape to a long, supple finish that leaves behind sappy red berry liqueur, floral and spice notes. 5% new French oak.”

St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($69.95) $49 special     
Josh Raynolds 93 points 
“Glistening magenta. Spice- and mineral-accented raspberry, boysenberry and cherry aromas are complemented by suggestions of five-spice powder and candied rose. Seamless, energetic and appealingly sweet, offering concentrated red and blue fruit, exotic spice and floral pastille flavors braced by a smoky mineral undertone. Shows superb definition and floral lift on the penetrating finish, which is framed by supple, harmonious tannins.”

St. Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($47.95) $35.50 special     
Josh Raynolds 93 points 
“Deep garnet. Highly perfumed raspberry, cherry and candied rose scents are joined by slowly emerging nuances of baking spice and freshly turned earth. Juicy and sharply focused, offering energetic cherry cola, raspberry and lavender pastille flavors that deepen and turn spicier with air. Shows outstanding clarity and firm cut on the strikingly persistent, red-fruit-driven finish, which is given shape by fine-grained, even tannins.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

The Eyrie Vineyards Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($44.95) $39 special 
Josh Raynolds 92 points
 “Vivid red. Ripe cherry and raspberry scents reveal building floral and succulent herb flourishes. Juicy and broad in the mouth, offering plush red fruit and candied rose flavors and a spicy topnote. The spiciness carries through a long, smooth finish framed by gentle, pliant tannins.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Newly Reviewed Wines Arriving Friday, February 18th:
 
We pride ourselves at Vinopolis on our extensive inventory, with new and re-arrivals coming in weekly. Given how many of our wines sell out before they even hit the shelf, the old phrase “Strike while the iron is hot” comes to mind. We were lucky enough to have an entire tranche of wines receive glowing reviews from the legendary Josh Raynolds of Vinous, just in time for their pre-arrival announcements! 
 
Ayres Pioneer Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($49.95) $37 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 93 points
 “Deep, vivid garnet. Spice-accented cherry, blackberry and floral scents are complemented by suggestions of cola, mocha and lavender. Fleshy red and blue fruit and spicecake flavors show impressive energy and a hint of candied licorice on the back half. The floral and spice notes resonate on a very long, sappy finish shaped by smooth, well-judged tannins.”

Ayres Lewis Rogers Lane Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($49.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 93 points
 “Limpid ruby-red. Vibrant red and blue fruit, floral, cola and baking spice scents are joined by hints of smoky minerals and earth. Juicy, penetrating and lively in the mouth, offering appealingly sweet boysenberry and black raspberry flavors that deepen and turn spicier through the back half. Finishes impressively long and smooth, with harmonious tannins framing lingering, finely etched berry and floral pastille notes.”

Bergstrom ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2019 750ML ($129.95) $109 pre-arrival special 
Josh Raynolds 95 points 
“Brilliant ruby. Hugely perfumed raspberry, boysenberry, fruitcake, floral oil and exotic spice scents show fine delineation and building minerality. Stains the palate with sappy red and blue preserve, candied rose, cola and five-spice powder flavors that smoothly blend depth and energy and betray no rough edges. Polished tannins add shape to an extremely long, spicy finish that echoes the floral and blue fruit notes.”

Brick House Vineyards ‘Cuvee du Tonnelier’ Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2018 1.5L ($149.95) $133 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 95 points 
“Shimmering red. Vibrant red berry, floral and exotic spice scents are complemented by suggestions of blood orange, incense and musky earth. Appealingly sweet and expansive on the palate, offering intense, finely detailed raspberry, cherry cola, spicecake and candied rose flavors that deepen steadily through the back half. Blends power and delicacy with a sure hand and finishes extremely long and precise, with even tannins and resonating floral and spice notes.”

 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mars and Venus:
Valentine’s Day selections P3

 
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner we’ve compiled a few selections that would be right at home in your gift basket or romantic dinner. Regardless of your giftee’s gender, we’ve got something for everyone!

Selection’s in stock now: 

Charles Ellner Brut Rose Champagne NV 375ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 5 half bottles in stock now 
Charles Ellner Brut Rose Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 32 bottles in stock now
Winery note
 “Soft pink: an invitation to the eyes, strong on the nose with hints of strawberry, this champagne offers intensive fruity aromas. The chardonnay that represents half of the blend gives freshness, but also longevity.”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Moet & Chandon Brut Rose Grand Vintage Champagne 2013 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points
 “Like a dancer, this graceful rosé is lithe and limber yet powered by a sculpted frame, in this case, well-honed acidity and a minerally underpinning. That frame and the satiny mousse support a delicate range of wild strawberry, peach skin and smoked almond flavors with accents of oyster shell, lemon thyme and Mandarin orange peel. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Disgorged September 2019. Drink now through 2031. — AN”
Decanter 93 points “A blend of 44% Pinot Noir (including 14% of red wine), 35% Chardonnay and 21% Pinot Meunier. The bouquet is simply sumptuous, with strawberry, pomegranate, sour cherry, spring flowers, and flinty touches. It has a tense and subtle palate, elegant and precise, with a delicately phenolic finish. A gastronomic Champagne. Dosage: 5g/L. Disgorged: September 2019. Drinking Window 2021 – 2028.”
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This latest Moët & Chandon vintage rosé is the product of a cool year, giving intensity to the texture as well as to the acidity. Combined with the light tannins from the red wine in the blend, the Champagne is taut, bringing fruit and freshness together. It obviously can age and will probably be at its best from 2023. -Roger Voss”

Domaine de la Pousse d’Or En Cailleret Clos des 60 Ouvrees Volnay Premier Cru 2016 750ML ($149.95) $128 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91-93 points
 “Bright ruby-red. Expressive, scented nose combines blackberry, spices, violet and lavender pastille. At once supple and vibrant on the palate, conveying serious density of texture and juicy flavors of black fruits and spices. This wine stands out for its intensity and inner-mouth perfume. Finishes ripe and chewy, with excellent length. A very strong performance for a cool spot in a warm year.”
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 90-92 points “The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des 60 Ouvrées has an elegant bouquet with perfumed, violet-tinged black and red fruit, well defined with touches of brown spice and iris emerging with time. This shows a pleasing restraint. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red and black fruit on the entry, well-judged acidity, then toughening up a little toward a structured and almost Pommard-like finish that suggests that it will need several years in bottle.”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

La Fiorita Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG Tuscany 2015 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 97 points
 “Highly Recommended. This rich red is energetic and balanced, saturated with black cherry, plum and mineral flavors. Accents of wild rosemary and sage chime in as this remains fresh and long on the iron and underbrush aftertaste. Best from 2024 through 2045. 310 cases made, 100 cases imported. — BS.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “This Riserva from La Fiorita boasts a full and generous style with pretty richness, concentration and ample intensity. This pretty wine really does hit those 2015 vintage expectations dead on. The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva offers plush fruit and good softness with cherry, cassis, spice, potting soil and candied orange peel. There is balanced intensity here with Sangiovese purity that cedes to lightly toasted aromas.”
James Suckling 95 points “Aromas of plums and berries with flowers and dried meat. It’s full-bodied with round, juicy tannins and an extremely polished and beautiful finish. Hints of walnut and spice at the end, not to mention ash. Very attractive to taste now, but better after 2025.”

La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG Tuscany 2012 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 26 bottles in stock now
Case-6 La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG Tuscany 2012 750ML ($699.95) $515 special, (That’s only $85.83 per bottle!) 
Wine Spectator 97 points
 “Perfumed, with wild herb aromas and a subtle mix of strawberry and cherry fruit. Vibrant and dense, with fine acidity driving the long finish. Though elegant, there is intensity and fine energy on the aftertaste. Best from 2022 through 2028.”

 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Cantalupo
The Count of Monte Rosa  

You’ve heard of sister regions Barolo and Barbaresco but did you know that there is a third sibling that also specialized in Nebbiolo? Alto Piemonte as it’s known by the locals is located at the base of the Italian Alps. These mountains were formed during the shift of the African and European tectonic plates, creating one of the most diverse mix of soils in the world. 

You see everything from prehistoric marine sediment, schist, fractured limestone, granite and even sandstone. There is so much complexity that only the locals have dared to try classifying the contents of their soil, with Alberto Arlunno of Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo leading the charge. The area has been inhabited since the Neolithic period according to archeological digs conducted, with winemaking occurring before the incursion of the Roman Empire. The Arlunno family has been farming in their home village of Ghemme since the 16th century, with their vineyards located primarily in Monte Rosa. The high elevation, varying soil types and ancestral knowledge of the site delivers a wholly unique interpretation of Spanna, the local name for Nebbiolo. 

The marginal growing conditions combined with the naturally high acid and tannin of Nebbiolo makes these among the most long lived wines in all of Italy. These climactic conditions are also conducive to weathering climate change, with warm vintages still displaying a perfect balance between ripeness and acidity. Cantalupo especially is a master of delivering fruit driven Nebbiolo that’s still loaded with secondary characteristics like botanicals, earth, minerals and truffles. Cantalupo was among the first in the area to label their wines vineyard specifically, not unlike how the Riserva line of Produttori in Barbaresco is classified. 

These are benchmark wines that are critically undervalued…for now. As climate change advances Alto Piemonte is considered to be the “Next Barolo” as balance becomes harder and harder to achieve with Nebbiolo’s famous precociousness.  

Cantalupo selections in stock now: 

Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo ‘Cantalupo Anno Primo’ Ghemme DOCG 2012 750ML ($44.95) $36 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni
 “The 2012 Cantalupo Anno Primo is a powerful, dark potent wine. Wild cherry, spice, tobacco and menthol contribute to its brooding, somber rustic personality. The 2012 is very big and dense.” 
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo Collis Breclemae Ghemme DOCG 2011 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 91 points
 “The 2011 Ghemme Collis Breclemae is heady, rich and unctuous – almost unnaturally so. This is a very big wine with notes of black cherry, pine, smoke, licorice, leather and incense. The 2011 is a powerful, virile, brooding wine with real intensity.”
Importer note “Soil is made up of moraine (glacial deposit) which is high in minerals, rocks, gravel and sand. Grapes were destemmed and delicately pressed keeping the rolls of the destemmer sufficiently distant from each other in order to avoid the ill-treating of the grapes as much as possible. After the fermentation at 28-30 degrees Celsius, two pressings a day were carreid out in order to favor the extraction of the anthocyans and the polymerised tannins from the skins, which give that characteristic velvety, sweet and at the same time austere taste to this wine.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo Collis Breclemae Ghemme DOCG 2013 750ML ($79.95) $55 special, 31 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 96 points 
“The 2013 Ghemme Collis Breclamae is fabulous. Deep, dark and also translucent, the 2013 possesses magnificent clarity as well as structure. Black cherry, lavender, truffle, mint, spice and new leather all develop in an ample, resonant Ghemme that hits all the right notes. A rich, substantial finish rounds things out in style. The 2013 can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring, but it also has the pedigree to develop in the cellar for many years to come. Each time I come back to the 2013 it is more impressive.”

Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo Signore di Bayard Ghemme DOCG 2011 750ML ($49.95) $44.50 special, 5 bottles in stock now
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Collector’s Corner: 
2010 Jadot 

Aged Burgundies are among the greatest wine experiences in the world. As you could expect they are often the top seller of auctions around the world, with price tags to match. Considering the stellar quality of the 2010 vintage these are among the most collectible wines in the shop. The critical reception categorized the vintage as “Succulent and Structured” as a way of encapsulating a ripe, yet acid driven vintage. Burgundian Pinot is famous for the silky texture that it develops after age, with these being no exception!

2010 Jadot’s in stock now: 

Louis Jadot Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML ($249.95) $219 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 95 points
 “Good full, medium red.  Expressive, nuanced aromas of strawberry, raspberry, crushed stone, smoke and flowers.  Glyceral yet light on its feet, with a suave, silky texture to its vibrant, savory red fruit, floral and mineral flavors.  Not at all a superripe style:  really perks up the palate and leaves the mouth refreshed on the very long, sweet/savory finish.  This classy grand cru finishes with captivating perfumed lift.” ST
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Louis Jadot Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ml ($249.95) $219 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Burghound 91-94 points
 “This possesses one of the most densely fruited noses in the range with copious spice, earth and game notes accompanying the mostly red and dark berry aromas. There is good power and impressive richness to the enveloping large-scaled flavors that possess a subtle minerality on the firm, balanced and driving finish. I very much like the sense of tension and energy and this should require every bit of 15 years to arrive at its majority.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Louis Jadot Domaine Gagey Clos Saint-Denis Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML ($499.95) $449 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 93-96 points
John Gilman 95 points 
“The Gagey family’s parcel of Clos St. Denis is planted with eighty year-old vines, and these old vines have performed beautifully in this great vintage. The beautiful nose soars from the glass in a classy mélange of red plums, cherries, raw cocoa, mustard seed, wonderfully complex soil tones, cloves and cedar. On the palate the wine is deep, fullbodied and very pure on the attack, with a sappy core of fruit, tangy acids, laser-like focus and stunning complexity on the moderately tannic and perfectly poised finish…”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Louis Jadot Estournelles-Saint-Jacques Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2010 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92-94 points 
“The 2010 Gevrey-Chambertin Estournelles Saint Jacques bursts from the glass with layers of dark fruit. Black cherries, flowers, mint and sweet spices wrap around the palate in this flashy, extroverted wine. The Estournelles Saint Jacques turns a bit more feminine in the glass, yet it remains exuberant, flashy and full of life. This isn’t the last word on subtlety, but it is a delicious wine in its own way.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Louis Jadot Nuits-Saint-Georges Cote de Nuits 2010 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Burghound 89-92 points
 “Outstanding! This sports what is perhaps the most complex nose of any of the villages level wines in the extensive Jadot portfolio. A dense and beautifully layered nose features a variety of black fruit aromas along with notes of earth, spice and game. The mouth feel is unusually sophisticated and refined with ripe and dense but quite fine-grained tannins that possess a high degree of phenolic maturity, all wrapped in a mouth coating and firmly structured finish. This is terrific and should deliver exceptionally good value.”
John Gilman 88+ points “The current rendition of the 2010 Jadot Nuits AC is long and complex, but a bit four-square at the present time. Keep in mind though that this wine will probably be ‘dressed up’ a bit with the addition of some barrels of premier cru, so in all likelihood, my score will ultimately prove to be quite conservative for this wine in its finished form.Today, the nose offers up notes of red and black cherries, coffee, woodsmoke, fresh herbs and a fine, complex base of soil. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and impressively sappy at the core, with a very good signature of soil, ripe tannins and fine length and grip on the finish. If this wine gains a bit more refinement from its addition of de-classified premier cru, this will be outstanding.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 

Louis Jadot Les Beaux Monts Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru 2010 750ML ($199.95) $179 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 91-93 points
 “Good medium red. Sexy, slightly high-toned aromas of black raspberry liqueur, coffee, dark chocolate, licorice and minerals. Sweet, silky and densely packed, conveying a strong impression of saline concentration. Peppery acidity gives definition and punch to the middle palate. Finishes firmly tannic, savory and very long, with enticing lingering perfume.”
Burghound 91-94 points “This is also notably ripe with a pungent and highly expressive nose of cassis, menthol and wood toast where additional breadth is present in the form of wet stone and spices. The detailed and highly energetic middle weight flavors possess excellent definition and seem built on a base of firm minerality while terminating in a tension-filled, harmonious and highly persistent finish. Text book Beaux Monts. (91-94)/2022+”

This is the only listing in the USA today!