In Today’s Newsletter:
Arriving Friday
Booker Vineyard’s 2017s
New Arrivals from Italy, Spain & Germany!
New “Splurge-Worthy” Champagne Reviews
From Roger Voss of the Wine Enthusiast
VinopolFavorite
New Wines from Goodfellow
Italy’s Most Age-Worthy Wine You’ve Never Heard Of
Collector’s Corner
The Crown Jewels of Argentina
Arriving Friday
Booker Vineyard’s 2017s
“This year’s Booker wines will more than satisfy his loyal contingent of followers, with their assertive, deeply fruited and complex, even flamboyant character.” –Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media
“Eric Jensen’s Booker Vineyards continues to make a ripe, sexy, pedal-to-the-metal style of wine… As I’ve commented in the past, the wines from Eric Jensen at Booker are some of the most impressive releases coming out of California. While in the past, they relied on pure fruit and texture to impress, today they possess layered, elegant and complex characters paired with serious depth, richness and structure.” –Jeb Dunnuck
Pre-Arrivals ETA Friday, November 13th:
Booker Vineyard Fracture Syrah, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($119.95) Was $79, Now $75 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Booker Vineyard Fracture Syrah, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($719.95) Was $449, Now $419 pre-arrival special (that’s only $74.83/bottle!)
Case-12 Booker Vineyard Fracture Syrah, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($1,439.95) Was $849, Now $799 pre-arrival special (that’s only $70.75/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “Notes of crème de cassis, ground pepper, and crushed flowers emerge from the 2017 Fracture, which, as always, is all Syrah and was brought up in 65% new French oak barrels. Full-bodied, beautifully layered and textured, it has classic Booker power and richness yet shows the pretty, elegant style of the vintage as well.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Shimmering purple. Mineral- and spice-accented black raspberry, boysenberry and candied violet on the highly perfumed nose. Shows superb depth as well as energy to the alluringly sweet red and blue fruit preserve, vanilla, fruitcake and candied violet flavors, which are complemented by smoky bacon and cracked pepper flourishes. Finishes smoky, broad and extremely long, displaying repeating florality and youthful tannic grip. Two-thirds new French oak.”
“Eric Jensen’s Booker Vineyards continues to make a ripe, sexy, pedal-to-the-metal style of wine… As I’ve commented in the past, the wines from Eric Jensen at Booker are some of the most impressive releases coming out of California. While in the past, they relied on pure fruit and texture to impress, today they possess layered, elegant and complex characters paired with serious depth, richness and structure.” –Jeb Dunnuck
Pre-Arrivals ETA Friday, November 13th:
Booker Vineyard Fracture Syrah, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($119.95) Was $79, Now $75 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Booker Vineyard Fracture Syrah, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($719.95) Was $449, Now $419 pre-arrival special (that’s only $74.83/bottle!)
Case-12 Booker Vineyard Fracture Syrah, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($1,439.95) Was $849, Now $799 pre-arrival special (that’s only $70.75/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “Notes of crème de cassis, ground pepper, and crushed flowers emerge from the 2017 Fracture, which, as always, is all Syrah and was brought up in 65% new French oak barrels. Full-bodied, beautifully layered and textured, it has classic Booker power and richness yet shows the pretty, elegant style of the vintage as well.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Shimmering purple. Mineral- and spice-accented black raspberry, boysenberry and candied violet on the highly perfumed nose. Shows superb depth as well as energy to the alluringly sweet red and blue fruit preserve, vanilla, fruitcake and candied violet flavors, which are complemented by smoky bacon and cracked pepper flourishes. Finishes smoky, broad and extremely long, displaying repeating florality and youthful tannic grip. Two-thirds new French oak.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $84.90
The average price is $100
The next best price is $84.90
The average price is $100
Booker Vineyard Vertigo, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Booker Vineyard Vertigo, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($599.95) $389 pre-arrival special (that’s only $64.83/bottle!)
Case-12 Booker Vineyard Vertigo, Paso Robles 2017 750ML ($1,119.95) $739 pre-arrival special (that’s only $61.58/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 99 points “I loved the 2017 Vertigo from barrel, and it didn’t disappoint from bottle. A blend of 63% Syrah, 30% Mourvèdre, and the rest Grenache and Petite Sirah, brought up in 65% new French oak, this full-bodied, massively endowed 2017 has complex notes of blue fruits, blood orange, violets, and exotic spices. As with all Eric’s 2017s, it’s rich and concentrated yet has remarkable purity and elegance at the same time. It’s one of the finest GSM blends out there and will shine for at least 8-10 years.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Brilliant purple. Blackberry, blueberry, cola, exotic spices, vanilla and pungent flowers on the deeply perfumed, mineral-accented nose. Compellingly sweet, lush and broad in the mouth, showing hefty dark berry preserve, candied violet and fruitcake flavors that pick up mocha, vanilla and star anise nuances on the back half. Finishes extremely long and smooth, with velvety tannins, lingering florality and outstanding clarity. 60% new French oak.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $74.99
The average price is $80
The next best price is $74.99
The average price is $80
Love California wine? We have over 80 wines from California currently available.
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New Arrivals from Italy, Spain & Germany!
Italy
One of Piedmont’s simple delights
Cieck ‘Erbaluce’ Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG, Piedmont 2019 750ML ($26.95) $19 special
Importer note “This wine is simply called Erbaluce as it represents the most straightfoward expression of our erbaluce grapes. Aiming to preserve the fruity sensations at their best, the bunches are pressed whole, then the pips, stems and skins are immediately removed. The must is then cold fermented so that the aromatic and flavour compounds, typicaly of the fruit, are not lost. After a few months in stainless steel tanks, the wine is bottled at the beginning of spring, the year after harvesting.”
One of Piedmont’s simple delights
Cieck ‘Erbaluce’ Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG, Piedmont 2019 750ML ($26.95) $19 special
Importer note “This wine is simply called Erbaluce as it represents the most straightfoward expression of our erbaluce grapes. Aiming to preserve the fruity sensations at their best, the bunches are pressed whole, then the pips, stems and skins are immediately removed. The must is then cold fermented so that the aromatic and flavour compounds, typicaly of the fruit, are not lost. After a few months in stainless steel tanks, the wine is bottled at the beginning of spring, the year after harvesting.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Dry & unfiltered
Angelo Negro Brachetto, Piedmont 2019 750ML ($24.95) $19.90 special
Importer note “Cherry red color with purple hue. Cloudy due to presence of residual yeast. Bright, fresh aromatics coupled with delicate hints of violet and rose. A pleasantly tart wine with notes of candied red fruit on the palate. Chill, shake, serve!”
Freisa is a wild-child offspring of Nebbiolo, and this version is delightfully zippy and rustic
La Miraja Freisa d’Asti, Piedmont 2019 750ML ($26.95) $19.90 special
Importer note “Nose: Subtle yet aromatic. Dominated by bright red fruit—most notably strawberry—and underlying notes of forest floor, fresh mushroom, violet, and geranium. Palate: A noteworthy floral character gives way to perfectly ripened strawberry mitigated by stony minerality, reliable acidity, and hints of white pepper. A textbook example of still Freisa made in a style that balances rusticity with finesse. Think homemade strawberry-rhubarb pie.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Classic Brunello, supersized
Il Paradiso di Frassina Moz Art, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2014 1.5L ($119.95) $99 special
Eric Guido-Vinous 92 points “Deep bright red-ruby. Oriental spices and botanical herbs complicate rich red fruit and balsamic oil aromas and flavors. Rich, ripe and suave, with a glyceral mouthfeel and strong hints of bitter herbs to the repeating ripe red cherry notes on the long thick, mouthcoating back end. A very good showing for 2014.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $148.50
The next best price is $148.50
“Such a pretty wine”
Il Paradiso di Frassina Moz Art, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 special
Eric Guido-Vinous 91 points “Here I’m finding a dusty and understated display of dried cherries, red florals, and crushed stone, with hints of leather and animal musk. On the palate, soft textures and cooling acids make for a lifted display, carrying pretty strawberry and floral tones, backed by saline-minerals which seem to slowly evolve into a coating of fine tannin. The finish is long and slightly tart, resonating on brisk acids and minerals, with saturating red berry and rosy florals slowly fading. Such a pretty wine.”
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Aromas of oak-driven spice, toasted notes and mature dark-skinned berry take center stage along with a whiff of fragrant purple flower. Reflecting the nose, the taut linear palate features raspberry compote, vanilla, coconut and a hint of star anise alongside polished tannins.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
A Rosso di Montalcino that punches way above its weight
Stella di Campalto Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 special
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 93 points “Very pale red. Delicately spicy and herbal nuances complement red cherry and berries on the perfumed floral nose. Then similarly impressive in the mouth, with sneaky concentration and depth to the redcurrant, strawberry and floral flavors. Finishes long and suave, with saline nuances but enticing lovely sweetness. Knockout Rosso.”
Eric Guido-Vinous 92 points “The 2015 Stella di Campalto Rosso di Montalcino shows a beautiful translucent ruby color, with a bouquet of sweet florals and dusty spice giving way to fresh strawberries, white smoke, and hints of leather. On the palate, soft textures flesh out across the senses in a wave of pure bright cherry, lifted by a core of vibrant acidity, which energizes yet also adds sweetness to its pretty red fruits, as minerals settle in and inner floral tones develop. The finish is long yet quite feminine, resonating on ripe red fruits, sweet florals, and spice, with lingering acids which sizzle on the senses. The 2015 is an understated yet remarkably pretty vintage for the Rosso; it’s a wine that begs to be drunk, not tasted, showing all the best qualities of the vintage while maintaining perfect form. It also worth mentioning that this was tasted within a flight of 2015 Brunellos, and it held its own.”
“So clean, so pure, and so easy to like, yet decidedly savory as well”
Stella di Campalto Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 95 points “Deep red. Initially slightly reduced, but clears with aeration to showcase peach, blood orange, cinnamon, balsamic oils, and talcum powder on the pretty but still youthful nose. Fresh and juicy, but boasting noteworthy size to the pretty red berry and floral flavors. A complicating note of cocoa and coffee rises to the fore on the long juicy finish that showcases sneaky concentration and lurking tannic power. Still youthfully chewy and with some oak that needs to be resolved, but this is a very promising Brunello.”
Eric Guido-Vinous 95 points “I could sit with this glass of 2013 Stella di Campalto Brunello di Montalcino Riserva for hours, simply taking in its bouquet, as it rises up from the glass with an alluring and intoxicating display of crushed ripe strawberries, both rich and sweet, giving way to exotic spice, rhubarb, dusty florals, and mineral tones. On the palate, it’s taking a turn to the savory side, as fleshy textures are offset by zesty acids, with a mix of cherry sauce, spice, wild herbs, and minerals drenching the senses, as pretty inner floral tones develop. It finishes fresh, yet buzzing with energy, contrasted by a tart berry twang, with resonating minerals, spice, and just a hint of fine tannin. This is so clean, so pure, and so easy to like, yet decidedly savory as well. The 2013 Riserva will have a lot of fans and comes off to me as a perfect mix of the 2008 and 2010 vintages.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price is $214
The average price is $214
The ageing potential is off the charts
Tenuta Col d’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Eric Guido – Vinous 94 points “At first, the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is quite closed in the glass, to the point I move on to the wine next to it… However, upon returning to the glass a few minutes later, I come to realize that the 2015 simply needs time to come to life; and once it does, watch out. Here I find a gorgeous and intense display, mixing savory and sweet, as well as, earth and fruit, as dusty cedar and spice give way to ripe strawberry with a hint of citrus, with wild herbs and a hint of animal musk adding further depths. On the palate, silky textures meld into woodland red berry fruits, zesty spice, hints of cedar, savory herbs, saline minerals, and mounting tannins. The finish is long and structured, yet there remains enough primary fruit to balance it all out, as well as resonating acids, intriguing hints of citrus, and spice. This is remarkably balanced, singing already, yet it’s full of potential for the cellar.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “This combines the best characteristics of Sangiovese, with cherry and strawberry fruit, earth, leather and iron notes and balsamic elements of wild thyme, rosemary and Mediterranean scrub. Shows a bit of heat on the finish, yet remains fresh and long. Best from 2023 through 2042. 16,600 cases made, 3,000 cases imported. — BS”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The Col d’Orcia 2015 Brunello di Montalcino (made with organic fruit) has a very distinctive aromatic profile with subtle hints of rusty iron and moist potting soil. However, this wine also shows an impressive evolution in the glass with those earthy and sanguine notes lifting to reveal sweet oak tones of vanilla and baking spice that remain pronounced in a second underlayer. To me, Col d’Orcia’s wines are almost always characterized by a medicinal or balsamic element, and the primary fruit is downplayed as a result. This vintage puts on a good show with wild berry, blackcurrant and dried blackberry. That said, this wine is more ethereal and spicy than it is fruity per se.”
Spain
Balanced, fresh, precise
Bodegas y Vinedos Artuke ‘Pies Negros’, Rioja DOCa 2018 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special
Case-12 Bodegas y Vinedos Artuke ‘Pies Negros’, Rioja DOCa 2018 750ML ($299.95) $215 special (that’s only $/bottle!)
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2018 Pies Negros was produced with grapes from the Sierra Cantabria in the village of Ábalos, so another village wine, even if it won’t get the official qualification, as they don’t have a winery in Ábalos! It’s a blend of Tempranillo with 15% Graciano fermented with destemmed but uncrushed grapes with indigenous yeasts, and it matured in 500-liter oak barrels for 12 months, except for 10% of the volume that was kept in concrete for that time. This didn’t stop growing in the glass, and the aromas are subtle and elegant. Since they started working with larger oak containers, they had to learn to work under more reductive conditions; they now seem to have mastered it, at least in some of the wines, like this one. The wines are subtler and less immediate than the wines aged in barrique, and this long-cycle vintage has a tendency toward this profile of wines. The palate is very balanced and fresh, with a core of red fruit, with bright flavors and very good precision. 70,000 bottles produced.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
“A great Gran Reserva in the making”
Vinedos de Paganos El Puntido Gran Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2007 750ML ($69.95) $49 special
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 96 points “[Reviewed June 2019] Putting my nose in the glass of the 2007 El Puntido Gran Reserva transported me to the classical Riojas from yesteryear. The wine has a fully developed nose with all the textbook descriptors of a good aged Rioja—forest floor, cigar ash, cold bonfire, truffle, cherries in liqueur, blonde tobacco, spices and iodine. But this is a classical Gran Reserva that has something that was not that traditional, and it comes from a single vineyard and matured in brand new French oak barrels for 28 months. But time in bottle has polished it (it was bottled in June 2010, almost nine years ago); the tannins are mostly resolved and it’s nicely textured. It has what I love about the best red wine—it’s salty rather than sweet, there is no room for sweetness here, and it’s sapid and tasty and has great balance and freshness. This is developing at a very slow pace and should continue doing so for a very long time. A great Gran Reserva in the making. Only 5,000 bottles were produced from 2007, a very cold vintage, when the grapes were harvested the last three days of October, and it snowed the first of November!”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “[Reviewed Sept 2019] A much smaller production that was aged longer (28 months) in new French oak, the 2007 El Puntido Gran Reserva comes from the same vineyard as the El Puntido but is a parcel selection. Blackcurrants, plums, smoked earth, incense, and violet notes all emerge from this elegant, silky, beautifully polished wine that’s full-bodied, has fine tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. It has power, but this is more about finesse and elegance.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $59
The average price is $59
“This full-bodied, rich, powerful wine has an incredible sense of elegance and finesse”
Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2015 750ML ($49.95) $36 special
Case-12 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2015 750ML ($549.95) $399 special (that’s only $33.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
James Suckling 96 points “The balance and purity to this wine is really impressive with blackberries, black truffles and dark fruit. Wet earth. Full body. Tight and compact. Structured, long and powerful. Superb length. Compressed and polished texture. Drink in 2022.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2015 Selección Especial checks in as 70% Tempranillo and the balance Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano that’s an old vine and terroir selection. Aged 6 months in new oak followed by 24 months in 90% French oak and 10% American oak, it has a beautiful bouquet of blueberries, black raspberries, crushed violets, incense, and cedar. This gives way to a full-bodied, rich, powerful wine that has an incredible sense of elegance and finesse on the palate. It’s a brilliant Rioja that can be drunk today or cellared for 10-15 years or more.”
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “The very perfumed, expressive and floral 2015 Selección Especial is a lot fresher than the stereotype of the vintage I had before I tasted 2015 widely. It’s a year that has turned out fresher than what the weather during the growing season pointed at. It was a dry and warm year, but the wines have very good freshness, which in this case feels exceptional. My first surprise was how aromatic and open the wine is for such a young age, with aromas of lavender and other Mediterranean herbs jumping from the glass. I expected that from the 2016s, but I thought the 2015 was going to be more closed and reticent. The palate is medium to full-bodied with fine-grained tannins, balanced, fresh and very clean. This combines energy and elegance with classical Rioja character. 220,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in December 2017.”
The average price is $42
Envinate seeks to highlight the individual terroirs of the Canary Islands and Ribeira Sacra. They produce wines of purity with low-intervention winemaking and vineyard management using ancient vineyards.
Envinate ‘Benje’ Blanco, Canary Islands 2019 750ML ($36.95) $33 special
Envinate ‘Benje’ Blanco, Canary Islands 2019 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special
Winery note “Benje Blanco is sourced from several old-vine, untrained pie franco parcels of Listan Blanco. Each parcel is hand-harvested and vinified separately in a mix of concrete tank and open tubs. 75% of the fruit is pressed directly off the skins, the other 25% is skin- macerated 14-40 days between 18-30C. The wine is then raised for 8 months in 60% concrete and 40% old French barriques on fine lees without battonage or added SO2. Bottled without filtration. Benje Blanco is a high-toned white wine, showing its volcanic terruño with smoky notes wrapped around the orchard fruit core, braced by Atlantic-infused high-elevation acidity. Pair it with prawns, scallops, roasted pork or goat.”
Envinate ‘Benje’ Tinto, Canary Islands 2019 750ML ($39.95) $29 special
Envinate ‘Benje’ Tinto, Canary Islands 2019 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special
Winery note “Benje Tinto is sourced from 1,000 meters elevation, old-vine, pie franco parcels of Listan Prieto (Mission) with a bit of Tintilla, named “Masca,” “La Zanja,” “Valle de Arriba,” and “Llano Redondo”, all of them located in Santiago del Teide. Each parcel is hand-harvested and vinified separately, some in concrete and some in small open tubs. Maceration is 10-30 days (depending on parcel) with daily punch-down; malolactic fermentation is in neutral French barriques, then raised 8 months in the same barrels without battonage or added SO2. Bottling is without fining or filtration. This is a pure and vertical expression of high elevation, volcanic Canary terruño with notes of red fruits, peppercorns, flowers, and volcanic soil – a beautiful wine to pair with grilled meats and mojo rojo.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $34
The average price is $34
Envinate ‘Albahra’ Tinto, Spain 2019 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “I also got to taste the just bottled 2019 Albahra. The blend is slightly different from the 2018 because the rains affected Moravia, so it’s probably around 75% Garnacha Tintorera and 25% Moravia Agria, which is a late-ripening variety. It’s juicy and very young, with a little less alcohol than the 2018—the Moravia was lower in alcohol than normal and gives the wine a little more freshness. It has very fine tannins and is less tannic than normal for its young age, and it feels gentle but with character. It’s impressive, because it feels as good as the 2018. It seems like they are now mastering the Moravia Agria, which is not an easy grape. 50,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2020. Albahra is the Mediterranean blend from Envínate, a red that combines Garnacha Tintorera from Almansa and Moravia Agria from Manchuela. This is their more available wine, as they produce 50,000 bottles of it.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Envinate & A Chingao Vineyards ‘Vidueno de Santiago del Teide’, Ycoden-Daute-Isora 2019 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, only 3 bottles available!
Winery note “Vidueño de Santiago del Teide is sourced from a tiny 0.15ha parcel of old-vine, untrained pie franc Listan Blanco and Listan Prieto. This co-planted parcel is hand-harvested, destemmed and macerated for 15 days in an open tub, then transferred to three old 228L French barriques to age for 8 months on fine lees without battonage or added SO2. Bottling is without fining, filtration or any added SO2. Due to its high elevation, this wine offers much less Atlantic character than their Taganan or Valle de La Orotava cuvees. Vidueno is a volcanic mountain wine, high-toned and vibrant, with smoky strawberry fruit balanced with fine tannins and refreshing acidity. Pair it with roasted meats and full- flavored seafood dishes.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Germany
Juicy, citrusy Riesling that shows flavors of stone fruits and lime zest
Weingut Leitz Rüdesheimer Klosterlay Riesling Kabinett, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($29.95) $20.90 special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $23
The average price nationally is $23
New “Splurge-Worthy” Champagne Reviews
From Roger Voss of the Wine Enthusiast
In Stock Now:
Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires, Champagne 2004 750ML ($199.95) $169 special, 28 bottles in stock now
Roger Voss-Wine Enthusiast 98 points “This is an iteration of a legendary Champagne. Perfectly balanced, still packed with white fruit but just touching nuttiness, the wine is at its peak. Celebrating one of the great Champagne vintages of this century, this wine is totally memorable and magnificent.”
Louis Roederer Cristal Millésimé Brut, Champagne 2012 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Roger Voss-Wine Enthusiast 98 points “As the first 100% biodynamic Cristal, entirely from Roederer-owned vineyards, this is an important milestone. This latest incarnation is a great Champagne with its density, elegance and poise. Still impressively young, the wine is taut, tightly wound and textured. At the same time, it has pure, ripe white and citrus fruits that are perfumed, and an important part of this wine’s long-term future. Drink at the earliest from 2023.”
Toast the season with selections from our in-stock inventory of Champagne. We have 134 to choose from on our web store. Can’t decide? Call, email or stop in for advice.
Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires, Champagne 2004 750ML ($199.95) $169 special, 28 bottles in stock now
Roger Voss-Wine Enthusiast 98 points “This is an iteration of a legendary Champagne. Perfectly balanced, still packed with white fruit but just touching nuttiness, the wine is at its peak. Celebrating one of the great Champagne vintages of this century, this wine is totally memorable and magnificent.”
Louis Roederer Cristal Millésimé Brut, Champagne 2012 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Roger Voss-Wine Enthusiast 98 points “As the first 100% biodynamic Cristal, entirely from Roederer-owned vineyards, this is an important milestone. This latest incarnation is a great Champagne with its density, elegance and poise. Still impressively young, the wine is taut, tightly wound and textured. At the same time, it has pure, ripe white and citrus fruits that are perfumed, and an important part of this wine’s long-term future. Drink at the earliest from 2023.”
Toast the season with selections from our in-stock inventory of Champagne. We have 134 to choose from on our web store. Can’t decide? Call, email or stop in for advice.
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
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When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you,
please let us know their name when placing your order.)
www.vinopoliswineshop.com
info@vinopoliswineshop.com
503-223-6002
VinopolFavorite
New Wines from Goodfellow
Marcus Goodfellow is one of the premier winemakers in Oregon. He founded Matello wines, his original label, in 2002 and hasn’t looked back since, making wines that have continually improved—both in bottle and from vintage to vintage. These are profound wines, both white and red, that are made in a style that’s distinctly savory—no fruit bombs here. Rather, we love them for their coiled power and Burgundian structure. These are wines that speak with an Oregon voice, but the tannin and acidity comes from an old-world point of view.
We’ve recently brought in a new round of his excellent wines, mostly from the top-tier 2018 vintage, but also some of his higher-end 2017’s (a vintage we love, as well). These are some of, if not the, best wines he’s made—a fantastic combination of exceptional years and a winemaker at the absolute top of his game. The wines that have been reviewed reflect this, with high scores and glowing praise from Vinous.
Newly Arrived from Goodfellow:
Goodfellow Family Cellars Ribbon Ridge Chardonnay 2018 750ML ($33.95) $27 special
Winery Note “Beautiful opening aromas of pear tart, meyer lemon, spring flowers and hazelnut. Light bodied but textural, silky and expansive. Clean lines, lively, refreshing citrus, baguette crust, cream, and just a touch smoke. Adds notes of orchard fruits, yellow apple and pear. This seems like a perfect holiday wine to me. It’s delicious, low alcohol, textural enough for cooler weather (and sunny in it’s nature which is enjoyable when the weather is poor). It’s unquestionably fine wine and offers tremensdous value.”
We’ve recently brought in a new round of his excellent wines, mostly from the top-tier 2018 vintage, but also some of his higher-end 2017’s (a vintage we love, as well). These are some of, if not the, best wines he’s made—a fantastic combination of exceptional years and a winemaker at the absolute top of his game. The wines that have been reviewed reflect this, with high scores and glowing praise from Vinous.
Newly Arrived from Goodfellow:
Goodfellow Family Cellars Ribbon Ridge Chardonnay 2018 750ML ($33.95) $27 special
Winery Note “Beautiful opening aromas of pear tart, meyer lemon, spring flowers and hazelnut. Light bodied but textural, silky and expansive. Clean lines, lively, refreshing citrus, baguette crust, cream, and just a touch smoke. Adds notes of orchard fruits, yellow apple and pear. This seems like a perfect holiday wine to me. It’s delicious, low alcohol, textural enough for cooler weather (and sunny in it’s nature which is enjoyable when the weather is poor). It’s unquestionably fine wine and offers tremensdous value.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Durant Vineyard Chardonnay, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Goodfellow Family Cellars Richard’s Cuvee Chardonnay Whistling Ridge Vineyard, Ribbon Ridge 2018 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special
Winery note “The 2018 Richard’s Cuvée shows notes of lime blossoms, mandarin curd, stone, white flowers, lilac, and fresh hay. Fine, with wings tucked tight. Direct, sharply defined, and old school, with energy and elegance, lemon, rainwater, and mineral resonance. From a single 800L foudre, 88 cases produced.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Temperance Hill Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($47.95) $36 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 93 points “Dark, vivid garnet. Ripe red and blue fruit, floral and spice qualities on the deeply perfumed nose, along with hints of musky earth and woodsmoke. Appealingly sweet and fleshy on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry, mulberry, floral pastille and exotic spice flavors that gain energy as the wine opens up. Shows excellent clarity and floral lift on a long, focused finish shaped by smooth, well-judged tannins. Drinking window 2023-2031. “
Winery Note “Red fruited and mineral, expressive and elegant nose with cedar, cinnamon and perfume, raspberry leaf, savory, thyme, strawberries, dried rose petals and potpourri. Violets, red cherry, gardenias, bright and clean with mid-weight fruit, nerve and pull and an amaro-esque, mineral finish. Tightly wound right now but opens beautifully with air. “
This is the only listing in the USA today!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Whistling Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2018 750ML ($44.95) $36 special
Winery Note “I love this wine. Vibrantly red fruited, elegant, light-bodied and gamine-like. Perhaps the most purely red of the 2018 Pinot Noirs. Red currants, dry red cherries, potpourri, and orange peel. Weightless, refreshing, crystalline, juicy in the mouth adding strawberries to the parade of red fruits. Very pure, very Pinot Noir. Drink for a year with food, then from 2023-2030.”
Goodfellow Family Cellars Fir Crest Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill Carlton 2018 750ML ($47.95) $36 special
Winery Note “Purple flowers, violets and lavender. Sandalwood, fresh ground coffee, basil, conifer, and rooibos tea. Opens to deep red cherry, blackberry, and perhaps even blueberry pie. Clean linear entry, no excess fat, weightless and energetic, moving with crisp freshness from red raspberry into blue fruits, into fine tannins and fresh nervy acidity. Long and bright. Reminds me of very good Santenay. This will gain weight and texture over the next year, tighten up for a bit, and then drink very well for the next 12-15 years.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Lewman Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($44.95) $36 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 92 points “Limpid magenta. A deeply perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, cherry, candied rose and exotic spices, and a bright mineral overtone gains strength with air. Juicy and precise on the palate, offering alluringly sweet, well-concentrated black raspberry, cherry liqueur, floral pastille and spicecake flavors that flesh out through the midpalate. Delivers a suave blend of power and delicacy and finishes impressively long and smooth, with harmonious tannins and outstanding clarity.”
VinopolNote: Lewman is a tiny vineyard that sits between Bethel Heights and Temperance Hill—absolutely prime territory for Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir. This wine is a perfect reflection of the vineyard, with pretty black-chery and raspberry flavors leaning into a savory, soil driven edge. Fruitier and more floral than Temperance, it’s still chiseled and powerful, as is typical of the region.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Fir Crest Vineyard Block 11 Pinot Noir, Yamhill Carlton 2017 750ML ($59.95) $46 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 94 points “Shimmering red. Complex array of fresh red fruits, pungent flowers and spices on the nose, with a discreet hint of musky underbrush in the background. In a vibrant, precise style, offering juicy red currant, raspberry and cherry flavors that take a deeper turn through the midpalate. Shows fine definition and mineral punch on an impressively long, detailed finish framed by smooth, well-hidden tannins. Drinking window 2022-2030.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Lewman Vineyard Pinot Noir Pommard Clone, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($59.95) $46 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 94 points “Brilliant garnet. Deeply perfumed red and blue fruit and cherry cola aromas, along with baking spice, candied rose and smoky mineral accents. Shows impressive definition on the palate, offering concentrated yet surprisingly lively, spice-accented black raspberry, cherry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors that pick up a succulent herb nuance with air. Finishes impressively long and youthfully chewy, with polished tannins providing grip to lingering cherry, allspice and bitter chocolate notes. Drinking window 2023-2031.”
Winery Note “Rich red fruits on opening lean up and turn red-blue with air, cocoa, dried flowers in the attic, graphite, red loamy earth. Heady and textural on opening, with sweet spices, amaro, more dry earth, and leather, giving way to savory herbs and mineral. With air it becomes a paragon of restraint, beautiful currant and pomegranate. One of my favorite wines from 2018, please don’t skip this.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Heritage #11 Pinot Noir Durant Vineyard, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Limpid garnet. An impressively complex bouquet evokes vibrant, spice-accented red berries and pungent flowers that show fine definition and lift. Stains the palate with sweet, energetic cherry, raspberry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen and take a darker turn on the back half. Shows outstanding definition and power on the impressively long, penetrating finish, which is framed by talc-y, slowly mounting tannins. 100% whole clusters. Drinking window 2024-2033. “
Winery Note “Deeply garnet, beautiful color. Expressive but restrained, begins with red cherries and layers of brown spices. With air, becomes beautifully filigreed, dense yet weightless, loamy earth, thyme, smoke, tobacco, deep red fruits and florals, red satin quality to the nose. Quintessential Dundee Hills. Middle weight, juicy, full fruit, layers of spice yet little sweetness, and very fine savory tannins. Vinous, youthfully exuberant now, but with obvious upside. Tremendous on day two. So good. Drink 2025-2038. “
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Heritage #12 Pinot Noir Whistling Ridge Vineyard, Ribbon Ridge 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 94 points “Deep, bright-hued scarlet. Powerful red and dark berry, cherry pit, exotic spice and licorice scents take on a suave floral topnote with air. Stains the palate with appealingly sweet, spice-tinged cherry, black raspberry and boysenberry flavors that steadily firm up through the midpalate. Conveys a suave blend of depth and finesse and finishes extremely long and precise, with polished tannins coming in late. Drinking window 2022-2030.”
Winery Note “Deeply fragrant. Dense, tranquil, ripe dark red cherry and strawberry, strawberry leaf, summer garden. Lilacs, lavender, and brown spices. Succulent juicy ripe fruits, excellent energy, weightless but juicy and full, finishing with bright acidity and firm tannins. Opens to cherry blossoms, strawberry pie, bright red currant and apple, wonderful balance between fruit and savory finish. This is the first year that this wine has been crafted from the best of three blocks: House, Long and Beloved. Longevity will not be a problem for this wine, but it has plenty of fruit for some early looks. Lovely now over a few days, I think that with air this really shows well and should continue to integrate over the next year. Then drink from 2023-2030”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Heritage #14 Pinot Noir Lewman Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Winery Note “Expressive woodsy notes, seamlessly pleasurable, cocoa, with lilac and pretty red-blue fruits, earth and baking spices. Plush on opening, this wine sheds it’s baby fat to reveal taut red fruits, extraordinary finesse, and perfect balance. Blueberry/blackberry, deep red cherry and hints of cacao, add in iron filings after a few hours, and a bright mouthwatering finish of fine tannins and red currant acidity. “
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Italy’s Most Age-Worthy Wine You’ve Never Heard Of
Borgogno is one of the most distinguished names in Piedmont, with a history that dates back to the 18th century. But despite its storied history, there is little doubt that Borgogno is making the best wines in the estate’s history today. Oscar Farinetti, who purchased the winery in 2007, is a fanatic when it comes to quality, and the wines very much reflect that. They’re still made in a traditional fashion, but with more attention to detail, care and better farming. What has resulted from all of this hard work is some of the region’s most incredible and age-worthy wines.
Usually when we think about age-worthy wines, particularly from Piedmont, we think red. However, Timorasso is a native white variety that has the potential to become one of the world’s classic cellar-worthy whites. Don’t fret if you’ve never heard of Timorasso, it nearly went extinct during the 20th century. But it has since been revived and is developing a cult-like following in Piedmont and beyond. Here’s how Grapelive recently described Borgogno’s 2018 Timorasso:
“We are seeing many great producers jumping on the bandwagon, including the famed Vietti and this beautiful expression by the legendary Barolo maker Borgogno… the 2018 Borgogno Derthona DOC should be arriving to the United States soon, though you’ll have to really work hard to get your hands on it as it is extremely limited, but you’ll be greatly rewarded for your hard work and search if you get your hands on it. Borgogno’s Timorasso from organic vines is lightly floral, medium bodied with a lovely texture and fine minerality. It delivers a polished and lively performance highlighting the grape’s best qualities with layers of peach, citrus and quince fruits, leesy notes, white flowers and an array of herb and spices along with a nice saline and wet stone element…The Timorasso is widely believed to be one of the longest-aging white varieties in Italy, with many of the producers saying it takes a few years to get itself together in the bottle, adding a depth of flavor and making more of a palate impact with honeyed notes. It deserves serious attention, going well with a variety of foods including poultry, pork and fatty fish and decedent shellfish, even lobster or crab dishes.” – Grapelive
Pre-Arrival ETA Friday, November 13th:
Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Derthona Timorasso Colli Tortonesi, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 pre-arrival special
Grapelive 94 point “A few years ago, Walter Massa of Vigneti Massa almost single handedly brought the rare Timorasso grape back from extinction and now it is one of the hottest white wines made in the Piedmonte region. We are seeing many great producers jumping on the bandwagon, including the famed Vietti and this beautiful expression by the legendary Barolo maker Borgogno. Tasted at Slow Wine earlier this year, the 2018 Borgogno Derthona DOC should be arriving to the United States soon, though you’ll have to really work hard to get your hands on it as it is extremely limited, but you’ll be greatly rewarded for your hard work and search if you get your hands on it. Borgogno’s Timorasso from organic vines is lightly floral, medium bodied with a lovely texture and fine minerality. It delivers a polished and lively performance highlighting the grape’s best qualities with layers of peach, citrus and quince fruits, leesy notes, white flowers and an array of herb and spices along with a nice saline and wet stone element. Derthona is the ancient name for Tortona, the town in southeast Piemonte, hence the appellation Colli Tortonesi (Tortona Hills) name. The Timorasso is widely believed to be one of the longest-aging white varieties in Italy, with many of the producers saying it takes a few years to get itself together in the bottle, adding a depth of flavor and making more of a palate impact with honeyed notes. It deserves serious attention, going well with a variety of foods including poultry, pork and fatty fish and decedent shellfish, even lobster or crab dishes. The Borgogno Timorasso doesn’t come cheap compared to other examples, like the Massa, which I also recommend trying, but it is a gorgeous white wine that is joyous rarity, that will be great addition to the cellar or a special occasion. The Borgogno Dertona DOC comes from the Monleale, [an area of] mostly hillsides around Tortona set on classic clay and limestone soils with good ripening coming from the great southeast and southwest exposures. [The terroir makes] for a more full bodied version, in some ways like the dry rich Alsatian Rieslings, but with a bit more softness and opulence, like Burgundy, especially when allowed to age. This 2018… is very refined and has remarkable clarity with a delicate light pale color and subtle acidity, which is very rounded. Borgogno, also known as “Giacomo Borgogno & Figli” which was founded back in 1761 by Bartolomeo Borgogno, was one of the very first elite Barolo producers and has an amazing track record for great wines, with their Nebbiolo bottlings being some of the most desirable wines in Italy. The Farinetti family acquired this historic winery in 2008, but is firmly committed to quality and the estate’s traditions… The 2015 marked the first vintage of their Timorasso white after the purchase of vineyard sites and the conversion to all organic practices. Borgogno also brought back the use of concrete for fermentations to give an extra element of classic and soulful expression to the wines throughout the range…”
Usually when we think about age-worthy wines, particularly from Piedmont, we think red. However, Timorasso is a native white variety that has the potential to become one of the world’s classic cellar-worthy whites. Don’t fret if you’ve never heard of Timorasso, it nearly went extinct during the 20th century. But it has since been revived and is developing a cult-like following in Piedmont and beyond. Here’s how Grapelive recently described Borgogno’s 2018 Timorasso:
“We are seeing many great producers jumping on the bandwagon, including the famed Vietti and this beautiful expression by the legendary Barolo maker Borgogno… the 2018 Borgogno Derthona DOC should be arriving to the United States soon, though you’ll have to really work hard to get your hands on it as it is extremely limited, but you’ll be greatly rewarded for your hard work and search if you get your hands on it. Borgogno’s Timorasso from organic vines is lightly floral, medium bodied with a lovely texture and fine minerality. It delivers a polished and lively performance highlighting the grape’s best qualities with layers of peach, citrus and quince fruits, leesy notes, white flowers and an array of herb and spices along with a nice saline and wet stone element…The Timorasso is widely believed to be one of the longest-aging white varieties in Italy, with many of the producers saying it takes a few years to get itself together in the bottle, adding a depth of flavor and making more of a palate impact with honeyed notes. It deserves serious attention, going well with a variety of foods including poultry, pork and fatty fish and decedent shellfish, even lobster or crab dishes.” – Grapelive
Pre-Arrival ETA Friday, November 13th:
Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Derthona Timorasso Colli Tortonesi, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 pre-arrival special
Grapelive 94 point “A few years ago, Walter Massa of Vigneti Massa almost single handedly brought the rare Timorasso grape back from extinction and now it is one of the hottest white wines made in the Piedmonte region. We are seeing many great producers jumping on the bandwagon, including the famed Vietti and this beautiful expression by the legendary Barolo maker Borgogno. Tasted at Slow Wine earlier this year, the 2018 Borgogno Derthona DOC should be arriving to the United States soon, though you’ll have to really work hard to get your hands on it as it is extremely limited, but you’ll be greatly rewarded for your hard work and search if you get your hands on it. Borgogno’s Timorasso from organic vines is lightly floral, medium bodied with a lovely texture and fine minerality. It delivers a polished and lively performance highlighting the grape’s best qualities with layers of peach, citrus and quince fruits, leesy notes, white flowers and an array of herb and spices along with a nice saline and wet stone element. Derthona is the ancient name for Tortona, the town in southeast Piemonte, hence the appellation Colli Tortonesi (Tortona Hills) name. The Timorasso is widely believed to be one of the longest-aging white varieties in Italy, with many of the producers saying it takes a few years to get itself together in the bottle, adding a depth of flavor and making more of a palate impact with honeyed notes. It deserves serious attention, going well with a variety of foods including poultry, pork and fatty fish and decedent shellfish, even lobster or crab dishes. The Borgogno Timorasso doesn’t come cheap compared to other examples, like the Massa, which I also recommend trying, but it is a gorgeous white wine that is joyous rarity, that will be great addition to the cellar or a special occasion. The Borgogno Dertona DOC comes from the Monleale, [an area of] mostly hillsides around Tortona set on classic clay and limestone soils with good ripening coming from the great southeast and southwest exposures. [The terroir makes] for a more full bodied version, in some ways like the dry rich Alsatian Rieslings, but with a bit more softness and opulence, like Burgundy, especially when allowed to age. This 2018… is very refined and has remarkable clarity with a delicate light pale color and subtle acidity, which is very rounded. Borgogno, also known as “Giacomo Borgogno & Figli” which was founded back in 1761 by Bartolomeo Borgogno, was one of the very first elite Barolo producers and has an amazing track record for great wines, with their Nebbiolo bottlings being some of the most desirable wines in Italy. The Farinetti family acquired this historic winery in 2008, but is firmly committed to quality and the estate’s traditions… The 2015 marked the first vintage of their Timorasso white after the purchase of vineyard sites and the conversion to all organic practices. Borgogno also brought back the use of concrete for fermentations to give an extra element of classic and soulful expression to the wines throughout the range…”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Collector’s Corner
The Crown Jewels of Argentina
The Crown Jewels of Argentina
Pre-Arrivals ETA Spring 2021:
Many insiders consider Cabernet Franc to be Argentina’s next signature grape variety; perhaps the future is now?
Bodega Aleanna ‘Gran Enemigo’ Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Tupungato 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Bodega Aleanna ‘Gran Enemigo’ Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Tupungato 2015 750ML ($719.95) $569 pre-arrival special (that’s only $94.83/bottle!)
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 98 points “Powerful places tend to mark wines in a stronger way than even the vintage conditions or the grape variety, and that seems to be the case with the 2015 Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard. But of course there are elements of both the year—slightly warmer and riper than 2016—and the grape—mostly Cabernet Franc with some 20% Malbec, which is what is planted in the vineyard, with the logical variations depending on the yields of each grape in a given vintage. This is a little more direct than the 2016, powerful and concentrated but balanced and fresh, and it has a little more tannin. As I said, this is more about the high altitude and austere place with all the components in great harmony. You do not notice the alcohol, concentration of tannins or acidity, as it’s all very integrated. All these wines are not about fruit but about soils, about rocks. 3,000 bottles produced.”
James Suckling 98 points “This is such a fabulous red with ripe berries, blackberries and hints of dried mushrooms and black tea. Full body and crystalline tannins that carry the wine on for minutes. Energetic and takes off like a rocket. Extreme, great wine. Drink or hold.”
A spectacular wine from Argentina’s most iconic name
Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyards Malbec, La Consulta 2015 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “Enormously spicy with a dense tannin structure that makes this malbec spectacular and slightly erotic, too. A breathtakingly long finish that makes you want more. The balance of this is so good that you can drink it right now. If you can resist drinking it now, this probably has a couple of decades of aging potential.”
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “I also tasted the 2015 Malbec Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard, which had been in bottle since July 2017. 2015 is a warmer and riper year within the three consecutive cooler El Niño vintages. It’s juicy, showy and round, with moderate acidity (relatively speaking). 12,480 bottles produced.”
Many insiders consider Cabernet Franc to be Argentina’s next signature grape variety; perhaps the future is now?
Bodega Aleanna ‘Gran Enemigo’ Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Tupungato 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Bodega Aleanna ‘Gran Enemigo’ Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Tupungato 2015 750ML ($719.95) $569 pre-arrival special (that’s only $94.83/bottle!)
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 98 points “Powerful places tend to mark wines in a stronger way than even the vintage conditions or the grape variety, and that seems to be the case with the 2015 Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard. But of course there are elements of both the year—slightly warmer and riper than 2016—and the grape—mostly Cabernet Franc with some 20% Malbec, which is what is planted in the vineyard, with the logical variations depending on the yields of each grape in a given vintage. This is a little more direct than the 2016, powerful and concentrated but balanced and fresh, and it has a little more tannin. As I said, this is more about the high altitude and austere place with all the components in great harmony. You do not notice the alcohol, concentration of tannins or acidity, as it’s all very integrated. All these wines are not about fruit but about soils, about rocks. 3,000 bottles produced.”
James Suckling 98 points “This is such a fabulous red with ripe berries, blackberries and hints of dried mushrooms and black tea. Full body and crystalline tannins that carry the wine on for minutes. Energetic and takes off like a rocket. Extreme, great wine. Drink or hold.”
A spectacular wine from Argentina’s most iconic name
Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyards Malbec, La Consulta 2015 750ML ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “Enormously spicy with a dense tannin structure that makes this malbec spectacular and slightly erotic, too. A breathtakingly long finish that makes you want more. The balance of this is so good that you can drink it right now. If you can resist drinking it now, this probably has a couple of decades of aging potential.”
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “I also tasted the 2015 Malbec Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard, which had been in bottle since July 2017. 2015 is a warmer and riper year within the three consecutive cooler El Niño vintages. It’s juicy, showy and round, with moderate acidity (relatively speaking). 12,480 bottles produced.”
Thanks for reading!