In This Newsletter:
A Wine Spectator Top 10 Wine Lands Tuesday
New Week – New Arrivals
SuperDeal on SuperUco
Jump Start Offer
Arriving Tuesday, August 19th
New Week – New Arrivals
A Wine Spectator Top 10 Wine Lands Tuesday
New Week – New Arrivals
SuperDeal on SuperUco
Jump Start Offer
Arriving Tuesday, August 19th
#6 Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2024
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Domaine Drouhin Oregon Roserock Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2022 1.5L $69 pre-arrival special, 12 magnums available
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2022 Pinot Noir is kaleidoscopic on the nose, mixed berry jam and rosewater giving way to accents of tangerine peel, cola, woodsmoke and aniseed. The medium-bodied palate is bursting with spicy flavors, and a streak of iron-like character adds to its complexity. It’s structured by silky tannins and refreshing acidity and has a long, layered finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Domaine Drouhin Oregon Roserock Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2022 1.5L $69 pre-arrival special, 12 magnums available
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2022 Pinot Noir is kaleidoscopic on the nose, mixed berry jam and rosewater giving way to accents of tangerine peel, cola, woodsmoke and aniseed. The medium-bodied palate is bursting with spicy flavors, and a streak of iron-like character adds to its complexity. It’s structured by silky tannins and refreshing acidity and has a long, layered finish.”
New Week – New Arrivals
Oregon
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The Eyrie Vineyards Melon de Bourgogne, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML $41.90 special, 13 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “Straw tinge. Aromas of apricots, cloves, lemon curd and chamomile. Concentrated and textured, almost oily, with a medium body and caressing layers. Gently spicy. Kept in neutral oak for two years before bottling. From organically grown grapes. 85 cases produced. Drink now or hold.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Patricia Green Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Willamette Valley 2024 $24 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The Estate Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is a denser, richer more stately version of Sauvignon Blanc than one would generally find in the universe of this grape. The 2024 version has a unique tension to it between its tropical lime-infused papaya notes and the crystalline minerality that is on display at a level we have never experienced before. As is always the case, it is at once very high in acidity but rich in texture which adds to the complexity of the fruit/minerality interplay in the wine and makes the wine profound even at a young age. While this wine is capable of aging (a 2019 consumed early in 2025 was in fabulous condition) we believe it is best served in its relative youth to capture these fresh and delicious flavors.”
Patricia Green Cellars Durant Madrone Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2022 750ml $41.90 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 93 points “The 2022 Pinot Noir Durant Vineyard Madrone Block smolders up with an array of dark red berries and exotic spice lifted by a whiff of mentholated herbs. It’s zesty within, with silken textures and ripe primary fruits that slowly saturate as saline minerals mingle with edgy tannins toward the close. This cleans up beautifully through the finish, leaving a licorice tinge and hints of blood orange that curl the tongue. A real crowd-pleaser, the Madrone Block is the total package. The 2022 was fermented entirely with whole-cluster fruit.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Ponzi Vineyards Chardonnay, Laurelwood District 2021 750ml $31.90 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2021 Chardonnay Laurelwood District has alluring aromas of white peach, quince, beeswax and cracked almonds. The light-bodied palate has a silky texture, vibrant acidity framing its saline-laced fruit and a long, nuanced finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Ponzi Vineyards Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $17.50 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Winemaker Note “A vibrant nose of lime curd, kumquat, passion fruit, lichee, rambutan, and star fruit is accentuated by a whisper of flint and wet stone. The palate is pretty, round, and balanced, featuring dried mango, pineapple, passionfruit, starfruit, sweet yellow cherry, stone fruit, with hints of agave and sugar cane, culminating in a deliciously long finish.”
Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood District Pinot Noir 2022 750ml $39 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Decanter 94 points “The 2022 bottling of the Ponzi entry-level Pinot Noir punches well above its weight class. The savoury and earth-driven elements buoy the dark fruits that predominate on the wine’s finish. Rich soil notes and dried violets introduce the effusively aromatic wine, with hints of smoky clove and freshly turned soil. The palate offers redolent muddled blackberries with mint, whisps of graphite mineral tones and a finish of warm spices.”
California
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Turley Wine Cellars White Zinfandel Rosé, Napa Valley 2023 750ml $19 special, 10 bottles in stock now
“The 2023 White Zinfandel (Rose) is as expressive as one could expect for the style, sourced from 60-year-old head-trained vines in Lodi. It is medium to deep salmon-pink in color, bursting from the glass with preserved stone fruit and tropical fruit aromas that include grilled yellow peaches, guava and touches of dried herbs and flowers. The palate is light-bodied and straightforward, with gently textural ripe fruit flavors that transition to a short but refreshing, spice-tinged finish.” -Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
France – Champagne
Billecart-Salmon Brut Le Reserve, Champagne NV 750ml $65 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Harmony and purity combine together in this light and subtle champagne. Its blend is made up of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier sourced from the very best sites of the Champagne region. It is the ideal partner to delight your guests on every occasion, both as an aperitif and throughout the entirety of a meal.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Guy Charlemagne Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 375ml $31.90 special, 6 half-bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This Champagne is made exclusively from the Charlemagne holdings in grand cru vineyards of the Côte des Blancs. With the classic steely edge that is balanced by a softer dosage, the wine is both fruity and structured. The bottling is ready although it is sure to develop some delicious mature flavors.”
Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut, Anderson Valley 2019 750ml $74.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 100 points “If sunshine could be bottled it would be this. Aromas of fresh succulent stone fruit, a hint of yeast, citrus blossoms and notes of quince on the nose. The mousse is creamy and light with baked red apples, blood orange zest, white grapefruit, sticky caramel and layered salinity with a mouthwatering finish. It will bring a smile to your lips.”
France – Burgundy
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Aligoté 2022 750ml $36 special, 6 bottles in stock now
“The 2022 Bourgogne Aligoté, mostly aged in foudres nowadays, was the only cuvée that had been bottled by the time of my visit. With light apple blossom and waxy aromas in the glass, the well-balanced palate is fresh, finishing with a touch of lemongrass. Enjoy over the next couple of years.” -Neal Martin, Vinous
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Aligote ‘Les Champ Forey’ 2022 750ml $79 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Jasper Morris-Inside Burgundy 90-92 points “Fuller yellow, with the grape skin and apple character of very good Aligoté. It is worth spending time over the nose. This is just immaculate, with such intensity behind and just a little wood. Seems ready to bottle whereas the 2021 needed 24 months. Very long behind. Effortless! Drink from 2025-2030. Tasted: November 2023.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Champ Salomon 2022 750ml $169 special, 6 bottles in stock now
“Pretty floral elements add a touch of elegance to the layered aromas of citrus and various white orchard fruit. There is a more refined texture and a bit more volume to the medium-bodied flavors that terminate in a dry but not as austere finish that also delivers excellent length. This will need at least a few years of keeping to add depth but Champ Salomon is deservedly well-known for how well it develop in bottle. (Drink starting 2027).” -Allen Meadows, Burghound
Italy – Tuscany
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Siro Pacenti PS Pelagrilli, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2020 750ml $64.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “A round and juicy red with berry, cherry, mushroom and wet-earth character on both the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied with integrated tannins that are soft and luscious. Long, flavorful finish. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Siro Pacenti PS Rosso di Montalcino 2023 750ml $44.50 special, 23 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “This graceful and perfumed wine shows aromas of toast, licorice, vanilla, pomegranates, violets and cinnamon. Its restrained character is improved by fruit concentration and weight, a full body, crisp acidity and well-handled, velvety tannins. Drinkable now, but best from spring 2025.”
Podere Le Boncie Chiesamonti Rosso Toscana IGT 2022 750ml $84.50 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2022 Chiesamonti is stellar. Chiesamonti is often marked by slightly coarse tannins. In 2022, intense summer heat amplified the fruit, yielding an especially showy, racy edition of the Chiesamonti. Plush contours wrap around a core of dark red/purplish fruit, blood orange, rose petal, lavender and spice. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this wine. And why should they? This is pure and total seduction.”
Podere Le Boncie Le Trame Rosso, Toscana IGT 2022 750ml $86.50 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 points “The 2022 Le Trame offers up scents of red Sangiovese fruit framed by beams of nervy tannin that start to soften with a bit of time in the glass. It’s a gorgeous wine from proprietors Giovanna Morganti and Giorgio Serao. High class. (Drink between 2027-2042).”
Italy – Piedmont
Brovia Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “The Brovia 2018 Barolo is a classic wine with a smooth and silky mouthfeel that is brightened by cassis, dried cherry, tar, licorice and campfire ash. The firm tannins give ample support and contribute to the wine’s considerable length.”
Brovia ‘Brea Vigna Ca’ Mia’, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe 99 points “The extraordinary 2021 Vigna Ca’ Mia shows it Serralunga heritage and captures the qualities of this outstanding vintage. It has beguiling aromas of wild rose, rosemary, camphor and cedar while the vibrant, structured palate captivates with ripe Morello cherry, raspberry, licorice, blood orange and cake spice. A backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins provides support while fresh acidity keeps lifted right through its lingering, salty finish. What a breathtaking wine. Drink 2033-2051”
Brovia Garblet Sue Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $134 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “Tile, violets, wild berries and rose petals on the nose. Really pure and fascinating aromatics. The palate is subtle and delicate, but with concentrated and sophisticated fruit that’s succulent and precise. Linear acidity. A lovely wine. Drink or hold.”
Brovia Rocche di Castiglione, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 98 points “The Brovia 2021 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione takes us back to, again, one of my favorite sites in the appellation. I go crazy for wines from this MGA. This expression is extremely nuanced and delicate, especially at first. The wine builds intensity later. Finely stitched aromas of fruit, minerals and blue flower make for a classical Nebbiolo. It shows good power and structure at the back. You should age it longer than most. Fermentation starts off in cement, and the wine is racked into French and Slavonian oak casks (40 hectoliters) for aging. The Rocche di Castiglione vineyard is distinguished by its high presence of sand. This 1.6-hectare plot sits at 300 to 350 meters in elevation with southeastern exposures. The vineyard is extremely steep and, with the loose soils, is challenging to farm. Diano sandstone and Sant’Agata Fossili Marl put these soils on the ‘younger’ side of the Barolo geological spectrum.”
Brovia Villero, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe 99 points “The gorgeous 2021 Villero from Brovia reels you in with its enticing fragrance of wild rose, cedar, pine forest and red berry. Elegantly structured and utterly delicious, the poised, precise palate features succulent red cherry, strawberry, star anise and white pepper before a salty finish. Firm, polished tannins provide seamless support while bright acidity keeps it wonderfully balanced and lends racy tension. This is a wine I would love to have in my cellar and follow its evolution over the years. Drink 2031-2046.”
Italy – Alto Adige
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Elena Walch ‘Kristallberg’ Pinot Bianco Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige 2023 750ml $41.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winemaker Note “Our Pinot Bianco ‘Kristallberg is a wine of great minerality. Presenting a clear, fresh straw yellow and a bouquet of fruity aromas with fresh pears and white stone fruits, as well as spicy notes with green walnuts and smoky and mineral aromas in the background. Elegant on the palate, but with juicy freshness, youthful vitality and stirring acidity, this partially barrel-fermented wine is an exciting new addition!”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Elena Walch Castel Ringberg Pinot Grigio Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige 2022 750ml $36 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “Silky and mouthwatering on the palate, with light, pleasing plumpness and a well-meshed range of flavors, from an underpinning of smoke and stone, rich accents of toasted almond and vanilla to an expressive mix of ripe pear, peach skin and white cherry fruit elements. Creamy finish. Drink now through 2027. 2,500 cases made.”
Spain
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Crianza, Rioja DOCa 2016 750ml $33 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutiérrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Viña Cubillo Tinto Crianza was surprising, spectacular, elegant, clean and fresh like few vintages before. It was a superb year, with quality, quantity and freshness. It’s quite the opposite from the previous 2015, which was a much warmer and riper year. The 2016s have moderate alcohol and especially the perception of less ripeness (even though the alcohol is very similar). It feels very young, still quite primary. Mercedes explained, “Cubillas, a 24-hectare plot, is a vineyard that could produce Gran Reserva wines. It’s a very good vineyard, but we would miss the Crianza in our range”. In fact, the comment was that this vintage is even a challenge for the Viña Tondonia red “because of its price.” It is indeed a bargain. “But it doesn’t have the finesse of Tondonia,” concluded María José. Anyway, it’s super tasty. 92,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2022.”
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Bosconia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2011 750ml $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutiérrez-Wine Advocate 92+ points “2011 was a warmer and riper year, but there’s not a huge difference between the 2011 Viña Bosconia Reserva and the 2010; this is perhaps mellower, with more integrated acidity. It’s 13.5% alcohol with a pH of 3.3 and 6.7 grams of acidity measured in tartaric acid per liter, and it fermented in the 144-year-old oak vats and matured in used American oak barrels for five years. 88,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in May 2018.”
Germany
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Kruger Rumpf Spatburgunder Trocken Rosé, Nahe 2024 750ml $24 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Von Winning Winnings Riesling, Pfalz 2024 750ml $21.90 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Vineyards: Mostly from Bischofsgarten in Bad Durkheim and Deidesheim. Soil Type: Loam and sandstone. Fermentation & Élevage: Stainless steel tanks and 10% used French & German old barrels, 500-1500L.”
Portugal
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Quinta do Ermizio Branco, Vinho Verde 2024 750ml $18 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Vinho Verde is Loureiro and Trajadura from the estate’s 15 hectares of vines, all cultivated in the traditional pergola system and farmed with limited interventions and abundant cover crops. The soils are granitic and elevation is around 500 meters. ?The grapes were harvested by hand, then pressed and fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. After alcoholic fermentation, malolactic conversion is blocked and the wine rests in the same vessels before bottling.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The Eyrie Vineyards Melon de Bourgogne, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML $41.90 special, 13 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “Straw tinge. Aromas of apricots, cloves, lemon curd and chamomile. Concentrated and textured, almost oily, with a medium body and caressing layers. Gently spicy. Kept in neutral oak for two years before bottling. From organically grown grapes. 85 cases produced. Drink now or hold.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Patricia Green Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Willamette Valley 2024 $24 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The Estate Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is a denser, richer more stately version of Sauvignon Blanc than one would generally find in the universe of this grape. The 2024 version has a unique tension to it between its tropical lime-infused papaya notes and the crystalline minerality that is on display at a level we have never experienced before. As is always the case, it is at once very high in acidity but rich in texture which adds to the complexity of the fruit/minerality interplay in the wine and makes the wine profound even at a young age. While this wine is capable of aging (a 2019 consumed early in 2025 was in fabulous condition) we believe it is best served in its relative youth to capture these fresh and delicious flavors.”
Patricia Green Cellars Durant Madrone Block Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2022 750ml $41.90 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 93 points “The 2022 Pinot Noir Durant Vineyard Madrone Block smolders up with an array of dark red berries and exotic spice lifted by a whiff of mentholated herbs. It’s zesty within, with silken textures and ripe primary fruits that slowly saturate as saline minerals mingle with edgy tannins toward the close. This cleans up beautifully through the finish, leaving a licorice tinge and hints of blood orange that curl the tongue. A real crowd-pleaser, the Madrone Block is the total package. The 2022 was fermented entirely with whole-cluster fruit.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Ponzi Vineyards Chardonnay, Laurelwood District 2021 750ml $31.90 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2021 Chardonnay Laurelwood District has alluring aromas of white peach, quince, beeswax and cracked almonds. The light-bodied palate has a silky texture, vibrant acidity framing its saline-laced fruit and a long, nuanced finish.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Ponzi Vineyards Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $17.50 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Winemaker Note “A vibrant nose of lime curd, kumquat, passion fruit, lichee, rambutan, and star fruit is accentuated by a whisper of flint and wet stone. The palate is pretty, round, and balanced, featuring dried mango, pineapple, passionfruit, starfruit, sweet yellow cherry, stone fruit, with hints of agave and sugar cane, culminating in a deliciously long finish.”
Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood District Pinot Noir 2022 750ml $39 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Decanter 94 points “The 2022 bottling of the Ponzi entry-level Pinot Noir punches well above its weight class. The savoury and earth-driven elements buoy the dark fruits that predominate on the wine’s finish. Rich soil notes and dried violets introduce the effusively aromatic wine, with hints of smoky clove and freshly turned soil. The palate offers redolent muddled blackberries with mint, whisps of graphite mineral tones and a finish of warm spices.”
California
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Turley Wine Cellars White Zinfandel Rosé, Napa Valley 2023 750ml $19 special, 10 bottles in stock now
“The 2023 White Zinfandel (Rose) is as expressive as one could expect for the style, sourced from 60-year-old head-trained vines in Lodi. It is medium to deep salmon-pink in color, bursting from the glass with preserved stone fruit and tropical fruit aromas that include grilled yellow peaches, guava and touches of dried herbs and flowers. The palate is light-bodied and straightforward, with gently textural ripe fruit flavors that transition to a short but refreshing, spice-tinged finish.” -Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
France – Champagne
Billecart-Salmon Brut Le Reserve, Champagne NV 750ml $65 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Harmony and purity combine together in this light and subtle champagne. Its blend is made up of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier sourced from the very best sites of the Champagne region. It is the ideal partner to delight your guests on every occasion, both as an aperitif and throughout the entirety of a meal.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Guy Charlemagne Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 375ml $31.90 special, 6 half-bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This Champagne is made exclusively from the Charlemagne holdings in grand cru vineyards of the Côte des Blancs. With the classic steely edge that is balanced by a softer dosage, the wine is both fruity and structured. The bottling is ready although it is sure to develop some delicious mature flavors.”
Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut, Anderson Valley 2019 750ml $74.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 100 points “If sunshine could be bottled it would be this. Aromas of fresh succulent stone fruit, a hint of yeast, citrus blossoms and notes of quince on the nose. The mousse is creamy and light with baked red apples, blood orange zest, white grapefruit, sticky caramel and layered salinity with a mouthwatering finish. It will bring a smile to your lips.”
France – Burgundy
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Aligoté 2022 750ml $36 special, 6 bottles in stock now
“The 2022 Bourgogne Aligoté, mostly aged in foudres nowadays, was the only cuvée that had been bottled by the time of my visit. With light apple blossom and waxy aromas in the glass, the well-balanced palate is fresh, finishing with a touch of lemongrass. Enjoy over the next couple of years.” -Neal Martin, Vinous
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Aligote ‘Les Champ Forey’ 2022 750ml $79 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Jasper Morris-Inside Burgundy 90-92 points “Fuller yellow, with the grape skin and apple character of very good Aligoté. It is worth spending time over the nose. This is just immaculate, with such intensity behind and just a little wood. Seems ready to bottle whereas the 2021 needed 24 months. Very long behind. Effortless! Drink from 2025-2030. Tasted: November 2023.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Champ Salomon 2022 750ml $169 special, 6 bottles in stock now
“Pretty floral elements add a touch of elegance to the layered aromas of citrus and various white orchard fruit. There is a more refined texture and a bit more volume to the medium-bodied flavors that terminate in a dry but not as austere finish that also delivers excellent length. This will need at least a few years of keeping to add depth but Champ Salomon is deservedly well-known for how well it develop in bottle. (Drink starting 2027).” -Allen Meadows, Burghound
Italy – Tuscany
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Siro Pacenti PS Pelagrilli, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2020 750ml $64.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “A round and juicy red with berry, cherry, mushroom and wet-earth character on both the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied with integrated tannins that are soft and luscious. Long, flavorful finish. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Siro Pacenti PS Rosso di Montalcino 2023 750ml $44.50 special, 23 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “This graceful and perfumed wine shows aromas of toast, licorice, vanilla, pomegranates, violets and cinnamon. Its restrained character is improved by fruit concentration and weight, a full body, crisp acidity and well-handled, velvety tannins. Drinkable now, but best from spring 2025.”
Podere Le Boncie Chiesamonti Rosso Toscana IGT 2022 750ml $84.50 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2022 Chiesamonti is stellar. Chiesamonti is often marked by slightly coarse tannins. In 2022, intense summer heat amplified the fruit, yielding an especially showy, racy edition of the Chiesamonti. Plush contours wrap around a core of dark red/purplish fruit, blood orange, rose petal, lavender and spice. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this wine. And why should they? This is pure and total seduction.”
Podere Le Boncie Le Trame Rosso, Toscana IGT 2022 750ml $86.50 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 points “The 2022 Le Trame offers up scents of red Sangiovese fruit framed by beams of nervy tannin that start to soften with a bit of time in the glass. It’s a gorgeous wine from proprietors Giovanna Morganti and Giorgio Serao. High class. (Drink between 2027-2042).”
Italy – Piedmont
Brovia Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “The Brovia 2018 Barolo is a classic wine with a smooth and silky mouthfeel that is brightened by cassis, dried cherry, tar, licorice and campfire ash. The firm tannins give ample support and contribute to the wine’s considerable length.”
Brovia ‘Brea Vigna Ca’ Mia’, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe 99 points “The extraordinary 2021 Vigna Ca’ Mia shows it Serralunga heritage and captures the qualities of this outstanding vintage. It has beguiling aromas of wild rose, rosemary, camphor and cedar while the vibrant, structured palate captivates with ripe Morello cherry, raspberry, licorice, blood orange and cake spice. A backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins provides support while fresh acidity keeps lifted right through its lingering, salty finish. What a breathtaking wine. Drink 2033-2051”
Brovia Garblet Sue Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $134 special, 6 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “Tile, violets, wild berries and rose petals on the nose. Really pure and fascinating aromatics. The palate is subtle and delicate, but with concentrated and sophisticated fruit that’s succulent and precise. Linear acidity. A lovely wine. Drink or hold.”
Brovia Rocche di Castiglione, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 98 points “The Brovia 2021 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione takes us back to, again, one of my favorite sites in the appellation. I go crazy for wines from this MGA. This expression is extremely nuanced and delicate, especially at first. The wine builds intensity later. Finely stitched aromas of fruit, minerals and blue flower make for a classical Nebbiolo. It shows good power and structure at the back. You should age it longer than most. Fermentation starts off in cement, and the wine is racked into French and Slavonian oak casks (40 hectoliters) for aging. The Rocche di Castiglione vineyard is distinguished by its high presence of sand. This 1.6-hectare plot sits at 300 to 350 meters in elevation with southeastern exposures. The vineyard is extremely steep and, with the loose soils, is challenging to farm. Diano sandstone and Sant’Agata Fossili Marl put these soils on the ‘younger’ side of the Barolo geological spectrum.”
Brovia Villero, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe 99 points “The gorgeous 2021 Villero from Brovia reels you in with its enticing fragrance of wild rose, cedar, pine forest and red berry. Elegantly structured and utterly delicious, the poised, precise palate features succulent red cherry, strawberry, star anise and white pepper before a salty finish. Firm, polished tannins provide seamless support while bright acidity keeps it wonderfully balanced and lends racy tension. This is a wine I would love to have in my cellar and follow its evolution over the years. Drink 2031-2046.”
Italy – Alto Adige
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Elena Walch ‘Kristallberg’ Pinot Bianco Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige 2023 750ml $41.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winemaker Note “Our Pinot Bianco ‘Kristallberg is a wine of great minerality. Presenting a clear, fresh straw yellow and a bouquet of fruity aromas with fresh pears and white stone fruits, as well as spicy notes with green walnuts and smoky and mineral aromas in the background. Elegant on the palate, but with juicy freshness, youthful vitality and stirring acidity, this partially barrel-fermented wine is an exciting new addition!”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Elena Walch Castel Ringberg Pinot Grigio Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige 2022 750ml $36 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “Silky and mouthwatering on the palate, with light, pleasing plumpness and a well-meshed range of flavors, from an underpinning of smoke and stone, rich accents of toasted almond and vanilla to an expressive mix of ripe pear, peach skin and white cherry fruit elements. Creamy finish. Drink now through 2027. 2,500 cases made.”
Spain
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Crianza, Rioja DOCa 2016 750ml $33 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutiérrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Viña Cubillo Tinto Crianza was surprising, spectacular, elegant, clean and fresh like few vintages before. It was a superb year, with quality, quantity and freshness. It’s quite the opposite from the previous 2015, which was a much warmer and riper year. The 2016s have moderate alcohol and especially the perception of less ripeness (even though the alcohol is very similar). It feels very young, still quite primary. Mercedes explained, “Cubillas, a 24-hectare plot, is a vineyard that could produce Gran Reserva wines. It’s a very good vineyard, but we would miss the Crianza in our range”. In fact, the comment was that this vintage is even a challenge for the Viña Tondonia red “because of its price.” It is indeed a bargain. “But it doesn’t have the finesse of Tondonia,” concluded María José. Anyway, it’s super tasty. 92,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2022.”
R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Bosconia Reserva, Rioja DOCa 2011 750ml $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutiérrez-Wine Advocate 92+ points “2011 was a warmer and riper year, but there’s not a huge difference between the 2011 Viña Bosconia Reserva and the 2010; this is perhaps mellower, with more integrated acidity. It’s 13.5% alcohol with a pH of 3.3 and 6.7 grams of acidity measured in tartaric acid per liter, and it fermented in the 144-year-old oak vats and matured in used American oak barrels for five years. 88,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in May 2018.”
Germany
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Kruger Rumpf Spatburgunder Trocken Rosé, Nahe 2024 750ml $24 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Von Winning Winnings Riesling, Pfalz 2024 750ml $21.90 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Vineyards: Mostly from Bischofsgarten in Bad Durkheim and Deidesheim. Soil Type: Loam and sandstone. Fermentation & Élevage: Stainless steel tanks and 10% used French & German old barrels, 500-1500L.”
Portugal
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Quinta do Ermizio Branco, Vinho Verde 2024 750ml $18 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Vinho Verde is Loureiro and Trajadura from the estate’s 15 hectares of vines, all cultivated in the traditional pergola system and farmed with limited interventions and abundant cover crops. The soils are granitic and elevation is around 500 meters. ?The grapes were harvested by hand, then pressed and fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. After alcoholic fermentation, malolactic conversion is blocked and the wine rests in the same vessels before bottling.”
SuperDeal on SuperUco
Fans of the Michelini brothers in Argentina, known for their winemaking at Zorzal, also craft exceptional wines from calcareous soils in the Uco Valley under their SuperUco label. These are biodynamic wines from some of the top crafters of cool climate Argentinian wines. Don’t miss their gorgeous Cabernet Franc. If you love Bordeaux but not the price or shy away from oaky/jammy California fruit bombs, try this on for size.
“[SupercUco] is located in Los Chacayes, where there are two hectares of vines, as well as estate holdings in Gualtallary and Altamira, all of which are organic and Demeter certified. The textural precision and finesse that define the brothers’ solo projects are evident here as well, and the winery serves as a hub for family members to train as sommeliers or winemakers…” -Matthew Luczy, Wine Advocate
In Stock Now:
SuperUco ‘Calcareo’ Coluvio de Altamira Cabernet Franc, Uco Valley, Argentina 2020 750ml $19 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Joaquín Hidalgo-Vinous 94 points “The 2020 Cabernet Franc Calcáreo Coluvio, from Altamira in the Uco Valley, is garnet red in color. The nose consists of ash, green pepper, blackcurrant and hints of sour cherry. Delivering full-bodied flavor in the mouth, with sour cherry especially prominent on the palate, it grows more vigorous and light-footed as it goes on with good freshness and a hint of chalk. The alcohol lends structure. The 2020 is an unusual wine in that it’s both ripe and very fresh. Drink: 2022-2034.”
“[SupercUco] is located in Los Chacayes, where there are two hectares of vines, as well as estate holdings in Gualtallary and Altamira, all of which are organic and Demeter certified. The textural precision and finesse that define the brothers’ solo projects are evident here as well, and the winery serves as a hub for family members to train as sommeliers or winemakers…” -Matthew Luczy, Wine Advocate
In Stock Now:
SuperUco ‘Calcareo’ Coluvio de Altamira Cabernet Franc, Uco Valley, Argentina 2020 750ml $19 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Joaquín Hidalgo-Vinous 94 points “The 2020 Cabernet Franc Calcáreo Coluvio, from Altamira in the Uco Valley, is garnet red in color. The nose consists of ash, green pepper, blackcurrant and hints of sour cherry. Delivering full-bodied flavor in the mouth, with sour cherry especially prominent on the palate, it grows more vigorous and light-footed as it goes on with good freshness and a hint of chalk. The alcohol lends structure. The 2020 is an unusual wine in that it’s both ripe and very fresh. Drink: 2022-2034.”
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
GD Vajra
5% off any 4-8 in-stock bottles of GD Vajra
10% off any 9+ or more in-stock bottles of GD Vajra
Elvio Cogno
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Elvio Cogno
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Elvio Cogno
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GD Vajra sale ends Tuesday, August 19th at 9 am Pacific. Elvio Cogno sale ends Wednesday, Wednesday, August 20th at 9 am Pacific.