In This Newsletter:
Springtime Selections:
Rose Closeouts from around the world
April Arrivals:
Top tier Bordeaux and Burgundy
Domaine Collotte
Burgundy’s Top Value
Chablis for Sharing and Cellaring:
Arriving Friday, March 11th
Best in Brunello:
Biondi Santi
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Springtime Selections:
Rose Closeouts from around the world
Just in time to herald the new season we’ve put a number of rose bottlings on closeout. Regardless of stylistic preference there is something for everybody and any possible pairing. Rich and fruity, light and mineral or something in between there’s deal’s for everyone’s palate!
Rose Selections on sale now:
Castello di Ama ‘Purple’ Rosé Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2017 1.5L ($69.95) Was $49, Now $39, 6 magnums in stock now
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 90 points “Luminous red-pink. Fresh aromas of strawberry and flowers, then ripe and sweet with similar flavors to the aromas that show very good acid cut. This actually leaves a sweet impression on the long suave finish, but has so much acidity it seems less sweet than it is. Lovely. Winemaker Marco Pallanti has changed the winemaking so as to macerate the must on the skins for twelve hours and then ages the wine in used (one year) barriques to round it. A blend of mostly Sangiovese with a little Merlot.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Peyrassol Le Clos Peyrassol Rosé, Cotes de Provence 2019 750ML ($69.95) Was $55, Now $49, 3 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93 points “Predominantly Tibouren, with the balance of the blend being Grenache and Rolle, Peyrassol’s super pale 2019 Cotes de Provence Rose Le Clos Peyrassol offers up scents of crushed stone, garrigue, white peach and lime, all tinged with tart red berries. It’s medium-bodied on the palate, with a silky-wet stone feel and a lingering finish that seems to build in red fruit intensity while remaining citrusy and refreshing at the same time. One of the best wines in this year’s tasting, this is a limited-production cuvée from a walled vineyard located on the estate.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Fougeray de Beauclair Marsannay Rosé, Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($24.95) Was $21.90, Now $14.50, 10 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: Marsannay is the only village in Burgundy that permits rosé bottled under its AOC. As you might expect, the rosé from the village is outstanding stuff and Beauclair’s offers excellent value (just like their reds, for what that’s worth). Made from 100% Pinot Noir, the Marsannay rosé shows the dry and serious side of the genre, while managing to be delicious and fresh at the same time. If you love Pinot rosé from the Willamette Valley, you owe it to yourself to try the original.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Les Grands Bois Cuvee Les Trois Soeurs Rosé, Cotes du Rhone 2019 750ML ($19.95) Was $16, Now $9, 20 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Grenache & Carignan on chalky clay. Organic. Ripe strawberry, raspberry and a hint of licorice. Full body with a long and blanaced finish.”
Vinopolnote: A peppy blend of Grenache and Carignan from a certified organic estate.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Rosé of Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($29.95) Was $26, Now $21.90, 2 bottles in stock now
Winery note “The 2019 Seven Springs Rosé of Pinot Noir comes from young vines Pinot planted up on the vineyard’s East Ridge. These densely planted vines grow in well-draining soils and receive a full day of sunshine during the growing season. The gradual and even ripening that occurred during the 2019 growing season resulted in beautifully layered wines, with nuance and refinement. For the rosé, we were fortunate to realize a depth of flavor and aroma across the bright fruit and floral spectrum while still retaining mouthwatering acidity and freshness. The wine opens with a subtle whiff of reduction followed by under-ripe strawberries, white flowers, and dried apricots. The palate is lively and whimsical and begs for a dish like fritto misto or a salde nicoise.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Brazilier Coteaux du Vendomois Tradition Rosé, Loire 2020 750ML ($17.95) Was $14.40, Now $12.50, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer note “Pineau d’Aunis. Brazilier’s vineyards are farmed organically. This wine stems from vines averaging 20 years old. The fruit is harvested with a machine that selects during harvest, delivering only grapes to the cellar. Yield 55 hl/ha. Situated between Vendôme and Montoire, Coteaux du Vendômois stretches across the banks of the Loire. An AOC since May 2000, Coteaux du Vendômois have a historic reputation…Ronsard, Balzac, Henri IV were particularly fond of these wines.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine de la Chapelle Saint Victor Rosé, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence 2019 750ML ($19.95) Was $16.60, Now $14, 8 bottles in stock now
No reviews for the 2019 vintage. 2018 review provided for reference.
Josh Raynolds, Vinous“Shimmering orange-pink. Racy and focused on the nose, displaying mineral-tinged strawberry and orange pith aromas and a subtle floral overtone. Dry, tangy and precise on the palate, offering taut red fruit flavors and a touch of bitter blood orange. Finishes with firm cut and good, mineral-driven tenacity.” –
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Gramona ‘Mart’ Xarel-lo Vermell Rosat, Penedes 2020 750ML ($37.95) Was $29.50, Now $26, 28 bottles in stock now
Eric Solomon Imports note “Xarel-lo, Vermell Certified organic CCPAE and biodynamic DEMETER. The pale color of this rosé comes from a 48-hour maceration before pressing. With this additional skin contact, combined with the already high levels of antioxidants present in the juice of this variety, Mart cannot only be enjoyed in its youth (peaches and strawberries) but it has the capacity to develop for several years in the bottle as more pink peppercorn nuances emerge.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Rosé of Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2020 750ML ($29.95) Was $24, Now $20.90, 26 bottles in stock now
Winery note “The Seven Springs Rosé comes from the young Pinot Noir vines planted up on the vineyard’s East Ridge. These densely planted vines grow in well-drained soils and receive a full day of sunshine during the growing season. This cuvée offers a lively acidity, fresh fruit flavors and subtle floral characteristics.”
Bodegas Muga Rosado, Rioja DOCa 2019 750ML ($19.95) Was $14.50, Now $11.90, 4 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 90 points “Pleasant watermelon, pink-guava and peach character with some citrus. It’s medium-bodied with good fruit and a fresh finish. Macabeo, grenache and tempranillo. Drink now.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $17
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $17
Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina 2020 750ML ($24.95) Was $21.90, Now $19, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 92 points “Shimmering orange-pink. Pungent cherry and red berry scents take on floral and spice nuances with air. Shows silky texture and good depth to the zesty red currant and bitter cherry flavors, which turn sweeter through the midpalate. Smoothly blends heft and energy and finishes long and nervy, with a hint of bitter orange pith adding final bite.”
Importer note “The pink sibling of Ameztoi’s flagship white, this vibrant rosé is made from a mix of red and white indigenous grapes and is bottled with a little residual carbonation to give it a light spritz.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $23
Now it’s even lower!
The average price is $23
April Arrivals:
Top tier Bordeaux and Burgundy
When one thinks of the Right Bank, Merlot is usually the first that comes to mind. The heavy clay soils intermixed with sand deliver some of the most perfumed examples of Bordeaux on the market, and oftentimes at a fraction of the cost of their neighbors across the Gironde River. Château Canon La Gaffelière exemplifies this perfectly across the board, with their 50+ year old vines, 80% new French oak cooperage and organic farming practices still resulting in a bottle under $150. Combine that with the resoundingly positive critical reception of the 2015 vintage, this is a bottling to stock up on.
Arriving April 2022:
Chateau Canon la Gaffeliere Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($179.95) $135 pre-arrival special
#1 Wine Of The Year – James Suckling Top 100 In 2018
#2 Wine Of The Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 In 2018
James Suckling 100 points “Seductive. The nose draws you in deep: It’s like staring into a well of pristine dark cherries, dark plums, blackberries and mulberries. All the oak is perfectly subsumed. The palate’s flawless with immense depth and power and it’s so balanced as to appear to float. Immaculate fresh dark-berry and plum flavors. Silky and deep, ribbon-like finish. Perfect. Best from 2022.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2015 Canon La Gaffelière is deep, powerful and explosive. Seamless and captivating in the glass, it possesses magnificent richness, volume and intensity in every dimension. The Cabernet Franc, usually such a strong signature, is nearly buried by the sheer intensity of the Merlot fruit. Espresso, mocha, licorice and plum infuse the racy finish. The 2015 is going to need the better part of a decade to be expressive. Tasted two times.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “Still youthfully tight and backward, with a well-roasted frame of alder and juniper holding sway for now, but the core of cassis, blackberry and plum fruit waits in reserve, showing prodigious depth. When the toast and fruit melds, the backdrop of tobacco, singed iron and chalky minerality will get a turn to show. There’s a lot here. Built for the cellar. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2025 through 2040. 6,250 cases made.”
You’ve heard of the legendary Château Latour and their neighbor Château Lynch Bages but did you know there were still undiscovered gems right on their doorstep? Enter Château Haut Bages Liberal and their holdings that butt up against Latour. Positioned on the same gravel plateau overlooking the Gironde, these wines are perfect for those looking to familiarize themselves with Paulliac at a considerably lower cost of entry.
Arriving April 2022:
Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal Pauillac 2018 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “Pretty blackberries, blueberries and violets with some crushed-raspberry aromas follow through to a full body with wonderfully crafted and pure tannins that intertwine wonderfully with the blue fruit and blackberries. Long and endless. A triumph here. From biodynamically grown grapes. Try after 2026.”
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “The 2018 Haut-Bages Libéral is super-impressive right out of the gate. It shows all the depth and intensity I saw from barrel, with maybe a bit more tannic impact. Ripe red cherry, plum, orange peel, cedar and sweet spice all build in the glass. The 2018 is going to need a few years to come into its own, but it is a gorgeous Pauillac.”
VinopolNote: Haut-Bages-Liberal holds an amazing position on a gravel plateau overlooking the Gronde River inlet. Positioned between Chateau Latour to the south and Chateau Lunch-Bages to the north, this Chateau has been making great strides in quality over the past few years under new management, but still is selling for a fraction of the prices attained by its neighbors.
St. Aubin is a rising star in Burgundy, with the warmer vintages of climate change bringing about riper and less austere wines more along the lines of her sisters in the Cote-D’Or while still remaining affordable. In the case of Philippe Colin who is based in Chassagne-Montrachet, the St.Aubin bottling reflects his light touch in the cellar while still delivering the full character of traditional White Burgundy
Arriving April 2022:
Philippe Colin Les Combes Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “A sleek, supple white, with a velvety texture complementing the white peach, lemon tart, pastry and vanilla flavors. Harmonious and long, this ends with subtle, woody tannins and toast and spice elements. Fine intensity. Drink now through 2025. 225 cases made, 50 cases imported. — BS”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Collotte
Burgundy’s Top Value
“Collotte remains one of the most under the radar growers in Marsannay. At their best, these wines are striking for their purity of fruit and overall sense of harmony.” –Antonio Galloni
While the prices for the top wines from the best producers have skyrocketed, the value producers’ prices barely budged, even after some of the hardest growing seasons ever seen on record. Historically, the vineyard (and village) classifications have been based on consistent ripeness and power, as well as complexity
A perfect example? Their wines from Marsannay and Fixin. You should be stocking up on these wines across the board. They’re reasonably priced, from old vines on great soil and made by a real craftsman. In a cooler year, these wines might be a bit rustic compared to their more famous neighbor, Gevery-Chambertin with vintages trending consistently warmer due to climate change.
In Stock Now from Domaine Collotte:
Domaine Collotte Fixin Les Champstions Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 32 bottles in stock now
While the prices for the top wines from the best producers have skyrocketed, the value producers’ prices barely budged, even after some of the hardest growing seasons ever seen on record. Historically, the vineyard (and village) classifications have been based on consistent ripeness and power, as well as complexity
A perfect example? Their wines from Marsannay and Fixin. You should be stocking up on these wines across the board. They’re reasonably priced, from old vines on great soil and made by a real craftsman. In a cooler year, these wines might be a bit rustic compared to their more famous neighbor, Gevery-Chambertin with vintages trending consistently warmer due to climate change.
In Stock Now from Domaine Collotte:
Domaine Collotte Fixin Les Champstions Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 32 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Collotte Gevrey-Chambertin Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 28 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Collotte Marsannay Les Boivins Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special,16 bottles in stock now
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “The Marsannay Boivins is lieu-dit in Marsannay Villages, on vines over 40 years and varying limestone soil. Aged in oak, 25% new, to round the tannins.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Collotte Marsannay Le Clos de Jeu Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “The Clos de Jeu Marsannay comes from several parcels of 50 year old vines from Clos de Jeu on soft limestone crinoidal soil. Aged in oak, 25% new, this wine is harmonious in its flavors and tannins.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Collotte Marsannay Cuvee Vieilles Vignes Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “The Marsannay Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is assembled from five different terroirs of the appellation: “Combereau”, “Favières”, “Grasses Têtes”, ” Boivin” and “Récilles” on vines of about 50 years old. Completely destemmed, the wine is fermented and aged in tank.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Chablis for Sharing and Cellaring:
Arriving Friday, March 11th
2018 and 2019 are regarded as being highly concentrated and flavorful vintages of Chablis, with additional rarity imposed after massive losses to due frost in 2020 (With some producers losing their entire vintage largely overnight). Luckily we were able to secure allocations of all three vintages from two highly regarded producers. Spanning estate cuvee’s, premier cru holdings and a smattering of Grand Cru offerings from Valmur quantities are highly limited with both producers. Bessin and Schaller are both in the process of converting to organic farming methods with the majority of their fermentations taking place in steel and used oak in the case of Premier and Grand Cru bottlings.
Bessin wines arriving Friday March 11th:
Jean-Claude Bessin Chablis La Fourchaume La Piece au Comte Chablis Premier Cru 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume La Pièce Au Comte is brilliant, mingling notes of crisp green orchard fruit and Meyer lemon with hints of pastry cream, dried white flowers and oyster shell. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, it’s immensely concentrated and multidimensional, with racy acids and an abundance of chalky structuring extract.”
Jean-Claude Bessin La Foret Chablis Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “The 2018 Chablis La Forêt 1er Cru has an earthy and smoky bouquet, light touches of wild mint emerging with time in the glass. The palate is well balanced, offering grapefruit, mandarin and bitter lemon notes on the entry, then slightly honeyed toward the finish, but maintaining admirable tension throughout. Maybe it just lacks the persistence of Bessin’s Montmains or Fourchaume, yet this remains a very commendable La Forêt.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Valmur Chablis Grand Cru 2018 750ml ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Decanter 95 points “The domaine’s holdings extend over 2ha and are located next to Les Clos, with a west and north-west orientation. Combining vines of different ages and a mixture of stainless steel and oaked components, this is a wine that will reward patience. Vanilla spice, white flowers and subtle iodine notes combine beautifully on the palate here with salinity providing freshness on the finish. Drinking Window 2021 – 2028.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 94 points “The 2018 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru is lucid silver in hue. The bouquet is not as immediate as Bessin’s other 2018, taking its time to unfold, revealing citrus peel, oyster shell and dew-speckled green apple aromas that are beautifully defined. The palate is succinctly balanced, effortlessly carrying the weight of this Valmur. Wonderful intensity on the finish, yet linear and steely. You might deduce this to come from a much cooler growing season than it does. Top class – a Chablis that totally transcends the vintage.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Valmur Chablis Grand Cru 2019 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2019 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur is another superb cuvée from Bessin. Wafting from the glass with notes of Anjou pear, crisp stone fruit, white flowers, pastry cream and wet stones. Full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it’s textural and chiseled, with huge depth at the core and a long, resonant finish. As is often the case, this is one of the finest wines of the vintage.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Chablis Vieilles Vignes Burgundy 2019 750ML ($44.95) $33 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2019 Chablis Vieilles Vignes unwinds in the glass with notes of crisp green apple, pastry cream, white flowers and lime zest. Medium to full-bodied, chiseled and precise, with lively acids and chalky extract, it concludes with a saline finish.”
Schaller Wines Arriving Friday, March 11th:
Domaine Camille et Laurent Schaller Chablis Burgundy 2020 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Bessin wines arriving Friday March 11th:
Jean-Claude Bessin Chablis La Fourchaume La Piece au Comte Chablis Premier Cru 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume La Pièce Au Comte is brilliant, mingling notes of crisp green orchard fruit and Meyer lemon with hints of pastry cream, dried white flowers and oyster shell. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, it’s immensely concentrated and multidimensional, with racy acids and an abundance of chalky structuring extract.”
Jean-Claude Bessin La Foret Chablis Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin-Vinous 91 points “The 2018 Chablis La Forêt 1er Cru has an earthy and smoky bouquet, light touches of wild mint emerging with time in the glass. The palate is well balanced, offering grapefruit, mandarin and bitter lemon notes on the entry, then slightly honeyed toward the finish, but maintaining admirable tension throughout. Maybe it just lacks the persistence of Bessin’s Montmains or Fourchaume, yet this remains a very commendable La Forêt.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Valmur Chablis Grand Cru 2018 750ml ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Decanter 95 points “The domaine’s holdings extend over 2ha and are located next to Les Clos, with a west and north-west orientation. Combining vines of different ages and a mixture of stainless steel and oaked components, this is a wine that will reward patience. Vanilla spice, white flowers and subtle iodine notes combine beautifully on the palate here with salinity providing freshness on the finish. Drinking Window 2021 – 2028.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 94 points “The 2018 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru is lucid silver in hue. The bouquet is not as immediate as Bessin’s other 2018, taking its time to unfold, revealing citrus peel, oyster shell and dew-speckled green apple aromas that are beautifully defined. The palate is succinctly balanced, effortlessly carrying the weight of this Valmur. Wonderful intensity on the finish, yet linear and steely. You might deduce this to come from a much cooler growing season than it does. Top class – a Chablis that totally transcends the vintage.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Valmur Chablis Grand Cru 2019 750ML ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2019 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur is another superb cuvée from Bessin. Wafting from the glass with notes of Anjou pear, crisp stone fruit, white flowers, pastry cream and wet stones. Full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it’s textural and chiseled, with huge depth at the core and a long, resonant finish. As is often the case, this is one of the finest wines of the vintage.”
Jean-Claude Bessin Chablis Vieilles Vignes Burgundy 2019 750ML ($44.95) $33 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2019 Chablis Vieilles Vignes unwinds in the glass with notes of crisp green apple, pastry cream, white flowers and lime zest. Medium to full-bodied, chiseled and precise, with lively acids and chalky extract, it concludes with a saline finish.”
Schaller Wines Arriving Friday, March 11th:
Domaine Camille et Laurent Schaller Chablis Burgundy 2020 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Camille et Laurent Schaller Vau de Vey Chablis Premier Cru 2020 750ML ($41.95) $36 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Camille et Laurent Schaller Vaucoupin Chablis Premier Cru 2020 750ML ($41.95) $36 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Camille et Laurent Schaller Chablis Vieilles Vignes Burgundy 2020 750ML ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Best in Brunello:
Biondi Santi
In the beginning there was Biondi Santi….
Yes, Biondi Santi created the genesis of modern Brunello: the combination of bottling 100% Sangiovese wine from Montalcino, propagating the Sangiovese Grosso clone, and finally (in 1966) helping draft the regulations for the Brunello DOC. The foundational work did not stop there however, with Biondi Santi undertaking some of the first Massale or heritage selections on their estate to identify the best clones for winemaking. These results paid off in spades, with Biondi Santi’s genetic material being some of the most sought after clones of Sangiovese in the world. We’re excited to offer several exciting selections in stock now, including multiple vintages of their riserva and an extremely rare winery cellared release.
Biondi Santi makes Brunello that all other estates are judged against. Their estate, Il Greppo, occupies some of the most hallowed ground in the Brunello appellation, in the heart of Montalcino. Their standards are high (they rarely release riservas) and their style defines classic. The wines are powerful, but not overwrought, elegant but emphatic. With the oldest vines on their estate now approaching 90 years old, there’s a level of depth and power in Biondi Santi that’s unprecedented anywhere else in Montalcino. We’ve just secured our allocation of their entry level; the Rosso Di Montalcino made from their younger plantings and declassified barrels from their other bottlings.
Biondi Santi Arriving May 2022:
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Rosso di Montalcino Tuscany 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “Elegant, graceful and fine, the Biondi-Santi 2018 Rosso di Montalcino offers a delicate approach to the senses and it spreads over the palate with polished and silky intensity. The acidity is elevated in this vintage. A handful of historic producers in Montalcino are bringing the Rosso category up to the next level, and the venerable house of Biondi-Santi is one of them. This was a somewhat unusual vintage with prolonged cool spells alternating with moments of intense heat. However, this wine shows even ripening and is quite vibrant and tangy in terms of its acidity. In spectacular Sangiovese style, the wine ends with lingering tones of wild cherry, sweet earth, potting soil and perfumed violet.”
Biondi Santi in stock now:
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Annata Brunello di Montalcino DOCG2007 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 2 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “The nose is full of flowers and berries with dark cherries and ripe strawberries. Hints of flowers too. It’s full-bodied, with wonderful structure with bright acidity. Super clean and beautiful. Very pure and firm. Needs to age for a long time. Classic wine. Try in 2015.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino is gorgeous. The estate’s preference for picking on the early side is one of the factors that help balance some of the fleshiness of the vintage. This is an especially silky, supple Brunello from Biondi-Santi. The overt personality of the year comes through, but not at the expense of the house’s style. Floral notes reappear to frame the elegant, expressive finish. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.”
Yes, Biondi Santi created the genesis of modern Brunello: the combination of bottling 100% Sangiovese wine from Montalcino, propagating the Sangiovese Grosso clone, and finally (in 1966) helping draft the regulations for the Brunello DOC. The foundational work did not stop there however, with Biondi Santi undertaking some of the first Massale or heritage selections on their estate to identify the best clones for winemaking. These results paid off in spades, with Biondi Santi’s genetic material being some of the most sought after clones of Sangiovese in the world. We’re excited to offer several exciting selections in stock now, including multiple vintages of their riserva and an extremely rare winery cellared release.
Biondi Santi makes Brunello that all other estates are judged against. Their estate, Il Greppo, occupies some of the most hallowed ground in the Brunello appellation, in the heart of Montalcino. Their standards are high (they rarely release riservas) and their style defines classic. The wines are powerful, but not overwrought, elegant but emphatic. With the oldest vines on their estate now approaching 90 years old, there’s a level of depth and power in Biondi Santi that’s unprecedented anywhere else in Montalcino. We’ve just secured our allocation of their entry level; the Rosso Di Montalcino made from their younger plantings and declassified barrels from their other bottlings.
Biondi Santi Arriving May 2022:
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Rosso di Montalcino Tuscany 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “Elegant, graceful and fine, the Biondi-Santi 2018 Rosso di Montalcino offers a delicate approach to the senses and it spreads over the palate with polished and silky intensity. The acidity is elevated in this vintage. A handful of historic producers in Montalcino are bringing the Rosso category up to the next level, and the venerable house of Biondi-Santi is one of them. This was a somewhat unusual vintage with prolonged cool spells alternating with moments of intense heat. However, this wine shows even ripening and is quite vibrant and tangy in terms of its acidity. In spectacular Sangiovese style, the wine ends with lingering tones of wild cherry, sweet earth, potting soil and perfumed violet.”
Biondi Santi in stock now:
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Annata Brunello di Montalcino DOCG2007 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 2 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “The nose is full of flowers and berries with dark cherries and ripe strawberries. Hints of flowers too. It’s full-bodied, with wonderful structure with bright acidity. Super clean and beautiful. Very pure and firm. Needs to age for a long time. Classic wine. Try in 2015.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino is gorgeous. The estate’s preference for picking on the early side is one of the factors that help balance some of the fleshiness of the vintage. This is an especially silky, supple Brunello from Biondi-Santi. The overt personality of the year comes through, but not at the expense of the house’s style. Floral notes reappear to frame the elegant, expressive finish. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Annata Brunello di Montalcino DOCG2012 750ML ($199.95) $169 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’keefe- 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.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2008 750ML ($799.95) $649 special, 1 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The delightful 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is expressive and feminine with crushed chamomile, forest fruit, bramble, tar and licorice. It renders a stirring, melodic performance that plays out slowly but with determination. Drink: 2017-2030.”
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Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($579.95) $459 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Ian D’agata-Vinous 94+ points “Dark red. Musky nuances give way to brighter red fruit, licorice and herbal aromas. Rich and dense, with flavors of red cherry and minerals lifted by hints of orange peel and bergamot, not to mention noteworthy but harmonious acidity. Finishes long with youthfully chewy tannins and lingering hints of violet. This strikes me as a slightly readier to drink version of Brunello Riserva from Biondi-Santi, but as always, it improves greatly with aeration so decant at least six hours ahead for maximum enjoyment.”
Wine & Spirits 94 points “A warm summer yielded this rich and opulent 2011 Riserva. Only fruit from the estate’s oldest vines (some up to 80 years of age) makes it into this bottling, and that old-vine concentration shows in the wine’s dense flavors: notes of black cherry and umeboshi plum layered with iodine, basil and smoke. The tightly packed flavors need time to unfold, so it’s best to decant this several hours before serving.”
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Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 750ML ($649.95) $599 special, 1 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 97 points “You will notice the dedication printed below the label of the wine label. It reads: “Dedicato a Franco Biondi Santi.” Indeed, the Biondi-Santi 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is the last vintage made by the towering father figure of Brunello whom most everyone referred to as the “gentleman of Montalcino.” Il Dottore, as he was also respectfully addressed, died at age 91 in April 2013, and he was very active in the winery as this magnificent wine took shape. This Riserva is a true work of beauty. It is released one year later than usual. The wine reflects the natural heft and power of the 2012 vintage, and it also shows that distinctive open-knit and accessible personality that characterizes this warm and sunny growing season. Il Dottore’s magic touch is revealed in the level of fine detail and precision that transcends vintage, grape and territory. That extreme focus is an achievement of this estate alone located in the celebrated Il Greppo property. This Brunello pours from the bottle with a magnificent garnet color, and it evolves in the glass with dark fruit, candied orange peel, spice, licorice, anise seed, cola and balsam herb. The aromas are magical and ethereal, albeit slightly ripe and soft as expected of this vintage.”
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Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2013 750ML ($799.95) $649 special, 1 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 98 points “The Biondi-Santi 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a stunning wine from all points of view. Seamless integration and elegant complexity are what stand out, and it’s worth dedicating a few extra lines to the aromatic depth that is put so beautifully on display as the wine slowly unfolds. The bouquet starts off with wild cherry, earth, wet ash, crème de cassis and pruny chocolate. With extra time, there are hints of dried tobacco leaf, sandalwood and mossy forest floor. These lead to a fine tail of dried herb, bay leaf and a touch of rusty nail. The Riserva comes in numbered bottles, and I opened number 04277. To the palate, the wine is streamlined and silky with smooth tannins and a well-managed 13.5% alcohol content. The oak presence is reduced to a minimum, offering mild hints of spice and the delicate sandalwood or dried fig aroma I described above. Fresh acidity is the glue that gives the wine buoyancy and staying power. At this young stage, this 2013 vintage could be considered a bit shy or slow to start, but this will play out to great advantage in the long term as the wine continues its bottle evolution.”
Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 1983 750ML ($1499.95) $1199 special, 1 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “Elegant, graceful and fine, the Biondi-Santi 2018 Rosso di Montalcino offers a delicate approach to the senses and it spreads over the palate with polished and silky intensity. The acidity is elevated in this vintage. A handful of historic producers in Montalcino are bringing the Rosso category up to the next level, and the venerable house of Biondi-Santi is one of them. This was a somewhat unusual vintage with prolonged cool spells alternating with moments of intense heat. However, this wine shows even ripening and is quite vibrant and tangy in terms of its acidity. In spectacular Sangiovese style, the wine ends with lingering tones of wild cherry, sweet earth, potting soil and perfumed violet.”