New Arrival:
2016 Dominus
Muller-Catoir June Sale
Saint Cosme New Arrivals
Rosé Of the Day!
Newly Arrived Southern French Whites
Willamette Valley Winning Wines
Trending Wines
St. Theodoric
Cascina delle Rose
A Case of Vinsanity
June Sale Recap
New Arrival:
2016 Dominus
Dominus has been on a roll. Both the 2015 and now the 2016 vintages of this landmark wine are some of the best wines in Napa ever, at prices that should make cult-cabs blush. The 2016 just showed up and it’s stunning—an easy 100 pointer that will outlive its slightly older brother. This is a wine that perfectly synthesizes old-school Napa sensibilities with new-wave drinkability and style. Lovers of California Cabernet should not miss, and should buy as much as possible for the cellar.
In Stock Now:
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2016 750ML ($319.95) $289 special
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2016 1.5L ($699.95) $599 pre-arrival special, only 3 magnums available & arriving June 21st
Lisa Perrotti-Brown-Wine Advocate 100 points “A blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot and 8% Cabernet Franc aged in 40% new oak, the 2016 Proprietary Red Wine is deep purple-black in color and quite reticent at this youthful stage to begin, offering up subtle notions of potpourri, Indian spices, cigar box and iron ore over a core of crushed blackberries and black cherries with intermittent wafts of black and red currants, new leather and smoked meats. The palate is medium to full-bodied with a densely packed mid-palate and oodles of freshness framed by very ripe, finely grained tannins and laced with compelling earthy accents. It offers incredible vibrancy with tons of black and red fruit sparkle in the mid-palate leading to a provocative mineral element on the very long finish. If I could give more than 100 for this one, I would. To be released in May 2019.”
Jeb Dunnuck 98+ points “Another possible legend in the making is the 2016 Dominus, a classic blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot and the rest Cabernet Franc brought up in 40% new French oak. Pure, pristine notes of charcoal, cold fireplace, smoke tobacco, and both blue and black fruits all flow to a full-bodied 2016 that has incredible elegance and finesse, yet also depth and density. It’s more backward and reserved than the 2015 and needs 4-5 years of cellaring. It will unquestionably live for 25-30 years.”
James Suckling 98 points “The opulence of fresh flowers and dark fruit is so impressive. There’s so much going on, from flowers to currants. The palate is full and powerful, but what impresses most are the ripe tannins and the amazing poise at the finish. Tightens down at the end. A blend of 84 per cent cabernet sauvignon, eight per cent petit verdot and eight per cent cabernet franc. Drink in 2021.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2016 Dominus is a dark, somber wine. I don’t quite see the explosive energy of the 2013 or 2010, not the seductiveness of the 2012, but the 2016 has a distinct charm that is all its own. Quite frankly, I can’t remember a young Dominus with this combination of fruit density, freshness and polished tannins. A huge center of fruit emerge with time in the glass in a big, large-scaled Dominus that should provide readers with a long drinking window of pure pleasure once some of the baby fat wears off.”
Also Available:
“a flawless, perfect wine as well as a legend in the making” –Jeb Dunnuck
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2015 750ML ($349.95) $289 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Dominus Estate Christian Moueix, Napa Valley 2015 375ML ($179.95) $159 special, 5 half-bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 100 points “Bottled in July 2017 and composed of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc, the Dominus 2015 Proprietary Red Wine leaps from the glass with notes of fresh wild blueberries, crushed blackberries and black currant juice with touches of wild thyme, underbrush, iron ore and aniseed with wafts of lavender and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has incredible energy and vivacity, with the firm, pixelated tannins and lively backbone skillfully framing the muscular fruit, finishing with wonderful length and depth.”
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The 2015 Dominus is a flawless, perfect wine as well as a legend in the making. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot and the rest Cabernet Franc, from dry-farmed vines and brought up in just 40% new French oak, its ruby/purple color is followed by an extraordinary bouquet of blackcurrants, crème de cassis, damp earth, smoke tobacco, and spring flowers. Reminding me of the 2015 Château Margaux with its incredible mix of elegance and power, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, stunning purity of fruit, building tannins, and awesome length. This sensational textured and voluptuous Dominus drink well today yet will evolve for 25-30 years or more.”
James Suckling 98 points “A phenomenal red from the vintage with sandalwood, roses, currants, blackberries and blackcurrants. Full-bodied, extremely structured and intense with a great finish. The tannins are so polished and poised. Shows tension and beauty throughout. Straight and focused. Drink in 2022.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2015 Dominus is fabulous. Explosive and alluring on the palate, the 2015 possesses stunning texture and intensity. Blueberry jam, cloves, menthol, licorice and graphite are some of the many nuances that develop over time. In 2015 Dominus artfully balances the richness of the year with the classic structural elements that are such a signature of this wine.”
Muller-Catoir June Sale
“one of the best Herrenletten I have ever tasted at this domaine”-Stephan Reinhardt
Muller-Catoir Haardter Herrenletten Riesling Trocken, Pfalz 2015 750ML ($41.95) Was $33, Now $26, 23 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 96 points “A highly structured and complex wine with a lot of chalky minerality and breathtaking freshness on the super-long finish.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2015 Riesling Trocken Haardter Herrenletten VDP Erste Lage has a lovely bouquet that reflects the small chalk stripe in the vineyard, which gives a wet and smoky stone fruit flavor, along with some lemon and herbal aromas. The wine is round and elegant on the palate, almost mouth-fillingly fruity and reveals a seductive concentration and intensity; it also has a refined acidity structure on the palate. It is richer and more generous than the Bürgergarten, but with concentrated fruit. This is very long and intensely mineral Riesling. It is one of the best Herrenletten I have ever tasted at this domaine. Spectacular!”
Muller-Catoir Gimmeldinger Mandelgarten Riesling Auslese, Pfalz 2015 375ML ($39.95) Was $33, Now $29, 13 half-bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2015 Riesling Auslese Gimmeldinger Mandelgarten is super pure and fine on the nobly concentrated, stony nose with its honey and bright fruit aromas. Rich, sweet, lush and piquant on the palate, this is an excellent Auslese with great finesse and a lingering piquancy. Despite its sweetness, this is a very stimulating and pure Auslese with great ageing potential. 2022-2050.”
Muller-Catoir Haardter Mandelring Scheurebe Trocken, Pfalz 2016 750ML ($49.95) Was $39, Now $33, 7 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 96 points “Superfine grapefruit aromas and a hint of passion fruit on the nose make this a very sophisticated wine for a grape variety usually associated with banal wines. This is super concentrated yet also wonderfully elegant with a stunning mineral freshness that could wake the dead! The finish just doesn’t want to stop. Enormous ageing potential if you can resist it now.”
Terry Theise note “Zero botrytis, so Martin opted to make this dry masterpiece. It’s less wiggly than the Haardt but also deeper, more layered; a wine of great, deep humor, an exegesis of cassis, physio-sweet, with a hugely clinging salty finish. If dry Scheurebe can be grandiose, this one is.”
Saint Cosme New Arrivals
Saint Cosme is the estate to know in Gigondas, and one of the most heralded in all of the Southern Rhone. Louis Barroul is a talented winemaker and is the 14th generation of his family to make wines in the domaine that was founded in the 1500’s. The wines he makes are rich and powerful, with undeniable terroir signatures. To highlight these varying terroirs, the estate bottles a handful of single vineyard Gigondas which are the most interesting and coveted wines in the portfolio.
The 2017’s are some of the best wines they’ve yet made. The Valbelle cuvee is gone—blended in to the base level Gigondas (and bumping the already high-quality nature of this bottling). The remaining single vineyards are stunning. From the “best of everything” Hominis Fides to the more elegant Le Claux or the richer, more powerful Le Poste, these are a world-beating set of wine—at fantastic, best in country pricing. We just brought in some of their top wines, from single vineyard Southern Rhones to some of their excellent negociant Northern Rhone bottlings. These are joyous wines to drink and excellent ways to spend your wine budget.
Just Arrived:
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides, Rhone 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Jeb Dunnuck 96-99 points “My favorite of the single vineyard cuvées in 2017 is the Gigondas Hominis Fides, which comes from a vineyard just across the street from Le Claux. It has a killer nose of exotic flowers, freshly crushed rocks, new saddle leather, flowers, spice, and violets. Possessing full-bodied richness, an incredibly sexy, seamless, yet powerful style, and an awesome finish, it’s unquestionably one of the wines of the vintage.”
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “Somehow managing to be rich, dense and chocolaty—almost fudge-like—yet remaining fresh and vivacious, it will be fascinating to see how the 2017 Gigondas Hominis Fides develops over the next year.(JC)”
The average listed price is $126
Jeb Dunnuck 94-96 points “Notes of camphor, dried soil, crushed rocks, and loads of red and black fruits define the 2017 Gigondas Le Claux, which is 100% Grenache from a site just down the road from the estate. I always find a certain Burgundian character in this cuvée and it’s certainly present in the 2017. With medium to full body, a beautiful elegance and purity, and fine tannins, give bottles a few years and enjoy over the following decade or more.”
Decanter 93 points “Fermented in concrete with no destemming and indigenous yeasts, then 100% matured in barriques, one-third new, one-third second use and one-third third use. The wood gives it strong clove notes, joined on the silky palate by raspberry, strawberry coulis and strawberry eau-de-vie. A fine patina of wet-clay tannins coat your lips, slightly drying the palate and leading to a long finish. The St Cosme single-vineyard wines are undoubtedly impressive and strongly oak-influenced, displaying masterful work in the cellar – but they will be too oaky for some tastes, especially in their youth.”
The next best price is $109.99
The average listed price is $125
Wine Advocate 95-97 points “The 2017 Gigondas le Poste is just super: super purple, super concentrated and super tannic. Really intense, it’s not a wine for the shy, steamrollering along with dark fruit and powerful notes of licorice on the lengthy finish. (JC)”
Jeb Dunnuck 94-96+ points “More full-bodied, with incredible purity in its aromatics and fruit, the 2017 Gigondas Le Poste is another 100% Grenache cuvée that’s from a slightly higher elevation, terraced vineyard near the domaine. As with all the cuvées here, it’s not destemmed and is brought up mostly in used barrels. Offering lots of black currants, spice box, graphite, and licorice, it builds beautifully on the palate, has great concentration and intensity, and a blockbuster finish.”
The average listed price is $123
Jeb Dunnuck 93-95 points “The 2017 Côte-Rôtie (all from the Côte Brune) shows a more floral character yet still has plenty of Côte Brune power, weight, and richness. Black fruits, spiced meats, olive, and gamey notes all flow to a medium to full-bodied, ethereal 2017 that’s already hard to resist. It’s a beautiful wine in the making and bodes well for the vintage.”
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “Notes of smoked meat and cold fireplace mark the nose of Saint Cosme’s 2017 Cote Rotie. It’s medium to full-bodied, with a plush, seductive mouthfeel, supple tannins and a long finish. It should be a beauty.-JC”
The average listed price is $72
Jeb Dunnuck 90-92 points “The inky colored 2017 Crozes Hermitage isn’t far off the 2016 and has a darker fruited, peppery, charcoal, and licorice-driven style. It’s medium to full-bodied, straight and focused on the palate, yet has terrific ripeness.”
The average listed price is $34
Case-12 Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph, Rhone 2017 750ML ($419.95) $299 special (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 91-94 points “As in 2016, the 2017 St. Joseph is slightly fresher and more focused than the Crozes release and offers a terrific perfume of raspberries, violets, spice, and a hint of bacon fat. It’s seamless, medium-bodied, and incredibly elegant on the palate, with plenty of sweet fruit and a great finish.”
The average listed price is $38
Rosé Of the Day!
Domaine Brazilier Coteaux du Vendomois Tradition Rose, Loire 2018 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Biodynamic from chalky, limestone soil. 25+ year old vines.
Importer tasting note “The color is a soft pink tinged with orange. Elegant nose of intense peppery notes, along with discrete fruity scents. After a fresh attack, mouth displays a remarkable and persistent aromatic complexity, spices mingling harmoniously with ripe fruit.”
Domaine Philippe Tessier Rose d’Aunis, Vin de France 2017 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Newly Arrived Southern French Whites
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Clos Sainte Magdeleine Cassis Blanc, Provence 2017 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special
Case-12 Clos Sainte Magdeleine Cassis Blanc, Provence 2017 750ML ($449.95) $328 special (that’s only $27.33/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Kermit Lynch Note “Clos Ste. Magdeleine is crafting Cassis like we have never tasted before. Vigneron Jonathan Sack has had an immediate impact since stepping into his father’s shoes at the helm of the domaine, going organic in the vineyards and championing noninterventionist methods like native yeast fermentation to capture an authentic expression of this stunning seaside terroir. The abundant white limestone and perennial marine influence bring nerve and a coastal salinity, while lovely Mediterranean scents—anise, yellow flowers, citrus, peach—are delivered with newfound focus and precision. The pinpoint, sea-breeze finish and total finesse throughout are truly exceptional among Provençal whites. You’ll want to try the 2017 to see how the unique terroir of the tiny Cassis appellation is glimmering like never before.-Anthony Lynch”
Clos Sainte Magdeleine Cassis Blanc ‘Bel-Arme’, Provence 2016 750ML ($51.95) $39 special
Kermit Lynch Note “I haven’t experienced deep winter on the Mediterranean coast, but if I had to guess, I imagine it’s similar to what we experience here in Berkeley—clear blue skies and brisk air, some rain and fog, and the occasional frost or dusting of snow on the coast mountain peaks. (I can imagine eyes rolling in the Midwest and Northeast.) Due to an extended aging on the lees, the Bel-Arme has the added depth and roundness for a bracing winter day. With a touch of creaminess following the crisp stone fruit, it’s a Mediterranean white in a cashmere sweater. – Dustin Soiseth”
The average listed price is $49
Wine Spectator 90 points “A plump, fun-filled wine overflowing with yellow apple, apricot, melon and star fruit flavors. A light bitter almond note keeps this just focused enough through the finish. A crowd-pleaser. Viognier, Marsanne and Picpoul. Drink now. 3,300 cases made, 1,200 cases imported.-JM”
James Suckling 90 points “An array of ripe, sweet, peach, banana and melon character here. Sweetly perfumed and bright. Good weight on the palate with density and depth. Some pastry-like richness into the finish. Drink now.”
The average listed price is $20
Importer Note “Saint Cosme Condrieu is produced from fully-ripened Viognier which Louis Barruol believes is essential to achieving the variety’s full potential. “But ripeness must not imply excessive alcohol,” says Barruol, “We seek balance.” The wine is matured for eight months in used 228-liter barrels and undergoes full malolactic fermentation on fine lees for 12 months. Saint Cosme Condrieu shows classic aromas and flavors of dried apricot, peach, and orange blossom with fennel, anise, and elderflower. Twelve months of aging on its fine lees in used Burgundian pièce brings texture to the palate. This is a classic Condrieu.”
The average listed price is $74
Importer Note “Château de Saint Cosme Côtes-du-Rhône Blanc Le Poste is from a 1-hectare terraced vineyard that sits near the chapel of Saint Cosme, a short uphill climb from the winery. The maximum elevation is 280 meters, 140 meters above the Gigondas valley floor, and is one of the coolest vineyards in Gigondas. The terraces and elevation make it necessary to plow the vineyard by horse. The vineyard was replanted in 1963 by Henri Barruol to a field blend based mainly on Grenache and one small parcel of Clairette from which Le Poste Blanc is produced. This 100% Clairette was vinified in used traditional demi-muids without malolactic fermentation and aged 10 months on lees. Clairette is an old variety that likely originated in southern France often used to produce simple and crisp dry white wines or as a component in a blend such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape blanc. White wines from Clairette have a tradition at Saint Cosme, specifically at Le Poste, where Louis Barroul’s grandfather produced famously long-lived Le Poste Blanc. Limestone soils give Le Poste Blanc a flavor of gunflint and the ability to age for twenty years or more.”
The average listed price is $57
With so many recently reviewed wines in stock from the Willamette Valley, we had to break our newsletter feature into parts. Below are selections from estates we’ve loved year in, year out, including the groundbreaking Brick House (first biodynamic winery in OR!), breakout star Kelley Fox (who crafted the beloved Scott Paul wines through the 2014 vintage, now producing phenomenal bottlings under her eponymous label), and additional wines from our friends at Cristom, Goodfellow, Crowley, and more. Here’s to our home state heroes!
Newly Reviewed Wines In Stock Now:
Brick House Vineyards ‘Les Dijonnais’ Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Translucent red. Powerful, smoke-accented red berry liqueur, cola and lavender pastille scents show excellent clarity and pick up notes of Asian spices and savory herbs with air. Sweet and expansive on the palate, displaying concentrated but lively black raspberry, cherry cola and floral pastille flavors, appealing spiciness and a building mineral quality. Finishes with solid, spicy thrust and silky, slowly building tannins that fold smoothly into the wine’s sappy, persistent fruit. (33% new French oak).”
Brick House Vineyards Select Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Lurid red. Cherry cola, Chambord, Asian spices and a hint of potpourri on the fragrant nose. Sappy red and dark berry and cherry pit flavors show very good depth, and a spicy quality gains strength on the back half. Finishes very long and silky, with sharp delineation, gentle tannic grip and repeating floral and spice notes.”
Belle Pente Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2015 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Lurid red. Spice-accented red berries, candied flowers and baking spices on the highly fragrant nose. A spine of juicy acidity supports sappy, mineral-driven raspberry and bitter cherry flavors. A smoky nuance emerges with air. Turns sweeter on the impressively persistent finish, which is framed by even, slow-mounting tannins.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Vivid red. Sharply focused aromas of ripe red berries, succulent herbs and earth, along with a smoky mineral nuance that emerges with air. Silky and nicely concentrated, offering pliant raspberry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors and a sweet mocha flourish. This lively, fruit-forward Pinot finishes smooth and long, with just a whisper of tannins that add gentle grip.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Brilliant red. A complex bouquet displays scents of fresh dark berries, cola, baking spices and woodsmoke, along with a sexy floral nuance. Shapely and energetic on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry-cola, violet pastille flavors and a trace of succulent herbs. Finishes sweet, chewy and very long, with slow-mounting tannins and insistent floral and spice notes.”
Goodfellow Family Cellars Fir Crest Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Brilliant red. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh blue fruits, cherries, exotic spices, potpourri and smoky minerals. Bitter cherry and boysenberry flavors show excellent depth and clarity and pick up suggestions of candied flowers, star anise and musky herbs as the wine opens up. Blends power and delicacy with a steady hand and finishes very long and precise, with repeating spiciness and insistent florality. (made with 75% whole clusters).”
J.K. Carriere Provocateur Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Deep lurid red. Dried cherry, red currant, licorice, violet and a hint of gaminess on the pungent nose. In a wild, Old World style, showing impressive depth and focus to the smoke-tinged bitter cherry, vanilla and floral pastille flavors. A peppery note adds spicy cut to the gently tannic, impressively persistent finish, which leaves tangy red currant, bitter cherry and blood orange notes behind. This is a distinctly wild and not exactly cuddly Oregon Pinot Noir, which is all for the good. It’s also a superb value for an entry-level bottling from one of the Willamette Valley’s A-list wineries.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Shimmering red. Highly perfumed aromas of red currant, strawberry, candied rose and peppery spices pick up subtle vanilla and smoky mineral notes as the wine opens up. Juicy and precise on the palate, offering subtly sweet red berry, cherry and blood orange flavors that deepen and become sweeter on the back half. Shows impressive depth to the sweet raspberry, cherry and rose pastille flavors, with no excess fat; a spine of zesty acidity lends structure. Closes spicy, subtly smoky and quite long, with rounded, even tannins and a lingering floral note. (27% new French oak).”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Translucent red. A highly aromatic bouquet evokes fresh, sharply delineated red fruit, potpourri and Asian spice qualities, along with a bright, building mineral overtone. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering mineral-laced raspberry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen stealthily with air. Displays a suave blend of power and finesse and finishes with supple, even tannins and outstanding verve and persistence.”
The average listed price is $47
Trending Wines
Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2016 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “Leading off the Pinot Noirs, the 2016 Pinot Noir Seascape Vineyard comes from a ridgetop vineyard located west of the town of Occidental. Aged 17 months in 27% new French oak, it offers a savory, marine-influenced bouquet of wild strawberries, cranberries, rose petals, and Asian spices. With medium to full body, supple tannins, and a great, great finish as well as a singular character, this magical Pinot Noir from this team will benefit from a year in bottle and keep for over a decade.”
Wine Advocate 97+ points “The 2016 Hartford Court Pinot Noir Seascape Vineyard is pale to medium ruby-purple colored and opens with vibrant cranberries, pomegranate and Bing cherries scents with touches of underbrush, wild sage, red roses and mossy bark with a waft of tilled soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate packs in the elegant red fruit and earthy layers, finishing on a long, lingering, provocative mineral note.-LPB”
The average listed price is $64
Agathe Bursin Pinot Gris Zinnkoepfle, Alsace Grand Cru 2016 750ML ($44.95) $36 special
Ian D’Agata – Vinous 93 points “Bright straw. Fresh, deep aromas and flavors of apple, pear and delicate sweet spice are complemented by a stony undertone and a touch of youthful austerity. The apple and spice flavors linger nicely on the back. More refined and more precise than Bursin’s 2016 Pinot Gris Dirstelberg. Bursin owns two plots of Pinot Gris in this grand cru: one is high up on calcaire soil, while the other is farther down where the Zinnkoepflé’s famous pink sandstone starts. This wine always has more acidity than the Dirstelberg, and it gains in liveliness with aeration.”
VinopolNote: The Zinnkoepflé vineyard has been recognized as a top site since the beginning of vine cultivation in Alsace. The road in leading to the vineyard is known as “The Street of Gold” so famed were the wines. The shelly-limestone soils provide for great acidity, so wines from here are always both rich and racy—a rare and impressive combination.
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Coeur de Vendanges, Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “A wine that would embarrass many more expensive bottlings from Moulin-à-Vent or Fleurie, Chermette’s 2017 Beaujolais-Villages Coeur de Vendanges bursts with aromas of crushed cassis, raspberries, potpourri and rich soil tones. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with melting tannins, a generous core of sappy fruit and a long, beautifully delineated finish. Intensely flavorful but refreshing, accessible but substantive, this is a fabulous wine that exemplifies the appeal of Beaujolais. Given its unabashed deliciousness and decidedly modest tariff, this wine must be one of French wine’s greatest values.”
James Suckling 93 points “This has attractive depth and richness with seamlessly delivered tannins and fruit on the deceptively powerful palate. Understated, long and pure finish. Drink or hold.”
Domaine de Montille Les Pezerolles, Pommard Premier Cru 2009 750ML ($179.95) $149 special
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2009 Pommard Les Pezerolles is rich, round and seductive. Layers of fruit caress the palate in this enveloping, textured Burgundy. There is plenty of intensity in the glass. Hints of hard candy and licorice wrap around the finish. The Pezerolles was made with 100% destemmed fruit. Although I like the wine’s frank immediacy, I also think it will age gracefully.”
Chateau Pesquie Ventoux Terrasses, Rhone 2016 750ML ($17.95) $14.75 special
Case-12 Chateau Pesquie Ventoux Terrasses, Rhone 2016 750ML ($199.95) $156 special (that’s only $13/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “A year in, year out no-brainer is the Terrasses cuvee from this estate, and the 2016 Ventoux Terrasses is no exception. A blend of 70/30 Grenache and Syrah, it offers a terrific perfume of black cherries, wild herbs, dried flowers, and spice. This gives way to a plum, sexy, beautifully textured red that has surprising minerality, medium-bodied depth and richness and fine tannin. I finished a case of the 2005 just last year, and it was still going strong, so while there’s no need to cellar bottle, it will keep nicely for 7-8 years.”
Wine Advocate 90 points “A bit more “serious” than the Edition 1912M, the 2016 Ventoux Terrasses delivers what longtime admirers have come to expect from the estate: ample fruit, complexity, weight and charm. Peppered raspberries and hints of garrigue drive the wine from start to finish, bolstered by fine, silky tannins and balanced acids. This solid value blend of Grenache and Syrah should drink well for 4-5 years from vintage.”
Great Loire Cab Franc, perfect for the grill and patio.
Thierry Germain Domaine des Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny, Loire 2016 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special
Case-12 Thierry Germain Domaine des Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny, Loire 2016 750ML ($319.95) $219 special
Kermit Lynch Note: “100% Cabernet Franc from 4 to 70 year old vines grown on sand, clay, and Tuffeau limestone.”
The “secret” Remelluri. The Lindes bottlings always are fantastic Rioja.
Remelluri Lindes de Remelluri Vinedos de San Vicente, Rioja DOCa 2014 750ML ($27.95) $24 special
Case-6 Remelluri Lindes de Remelluri Vinedos de San Vicente, Rioja DOCa 2014 750ML ($179.95) $128 special (that’s only $21.33/bottle!)
James Suckling 96 points “Some richer, darker and deeper fruit character with plums, blackberries and a dark, earthy streak. The tannins are more upright, more elevated, and the fruit is richer and darker than in the Labastida. This has real presence, grip and energy. Try from 2021.”
St. Theodoric
Among the highest rated Chateauneufs of the 2016 vintage
Arriving Friday!
“In recent years these graceful, highly perfumed, delicate wines have become consistent standouts in my annual Châteauneuf-du-Pape tastings. Produced by Domaine de Cristia’s Baptiste Grangeon, in conjunction with American importer Peter Weygandt, the wines are made from fruit grown in sandy soils and with whole clusters, which imbues them with highly perfumed, spice- and floral-driven bouquets and a noteworthy light touch. That said, they certainly don’t lack for depth of flavor and intensity. These are among the most interesting wines being made in the appellation right now.” –Josh Raynolds, Vinous
Arriving June 21st:
Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape Le Grand Pin, Rhone 2016 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape Le Grand Pin, Rhone 2016 750ML ($499.95) $389 pre-arrival special (that’s only $64.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 95-97 points “Even better, the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Le Grand Pin is as always 100% Grenache that will spend two years in demi-muids. Rayas-like notes of rose petals, strawberries, and Asian spices all flow to a full-bodied, incredibly silky 2016 that has a tight, vibrant, structured feel that’s going to require patience. Buy a case of this elixir, give bottles 3-4 years, and enjoy over the following two decades. It’s sensational juice!”
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “On the day of my visit this year, the 2016 La Guigasse was in full voice, while the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Le Grand Pin was singing quietly. Rosemary and pine notes accent dark fruit in this wine, which comes from 35-year-old Grenache vines in the Rayas lieu-dit. Boysenberry notes flood the full-bodied palate, bringing a smooth, velvety feel on the long, slightly warm finish. Winemaker Baptiste Grangeon opines, “For me, the 2015 is one of the best wines of my life, but Peter [Weygandt, the owner] says the 2016 is better.” What fun it will be to see how this pair develops over the next decade or more.”
The next best price is $85.99
The average listed price is $91
Case-6 Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse, Rhone 2016 750ML ($499.95) $389 pre-arrival special (that’s only $64.83/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Wine Advocate 95-97 points “As I predicted last year, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape La Guigasse has smoothed out considerably and seemingly absorbed the stemmy elements I noted previously. Still not yet bottled, it now offers wonderful fruit purity and intensity. Raspberries and cherries are delivered on a full-bodied, rich and creamy palate that somehow avoids any sense of heaviness. It looks to be a stunning example of 70-year-old Grenache from the sandy lieu-dit of the same name.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94-96 points “Made from 100% Grenache in the La Guigasse lieu-dit, the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse boasts a deeper ruby/purple color as well as a sensational bouquet of kirsch and black raspberries, spring flowers, rose petals, and exotic spice. This beauty builds on the palate, with terrific concentration, yet it always holds onto the more ethereal, elegant, seamless style of this estate.”
Cascina delle Rose
When coming up with a list of the “most beloved” Piemontese estates, Cascina delle Rose would definitely be on it—to the surprise of many who aren’t familiar with the estate. Cascina delle Rose does fly under the radar—that’s for sure, but those who know the wines love them and buy them year in and out. The love for the wines is easy to understand once you taste them—they’re soulful renditions in an elegant style. The grace the wines display is hard to come across in a region that is increasingly warming and concerned with critical appeal. They strive for beauty and achieve it without sacrificing their drinkability and the ability to satisfy. These are wines for a set, not for the masses.
The winemaking here is extremely traditional, verging on natural and the vineyard management is fully organic. This is a true family estate doing all the right things. The 2016 Barbaresco vintage looks like an unqualified success from early press and the richer, warmer tones play right into Cascina delle Rose’s temperament. The last few years have seen brisk sales for these wines, so if they’re up your alley grab them now—they may not be available when they arrive in September.
Arriving ETA September
Cascina delle Rose Barbera d’Alba, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose A Elizabeth Dolcetto d’Alba, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($24.95) $19 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Nebbiolo Langhe, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco DOCG 2016 1.5L ($149.95) $128 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco DOCG 2016 3L ($379.95) $299 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2016 1.5L ($149.95) $128 pre-arrival special
Cascina delle Rose Tre Stelle, Barbaresco DOCG 2016 3L ($379.95) $299 pre-arrival special
A Case of Vinsanity
Best Bets for the BBQ
Avennia is a name to watch in Washington wine and their ’16s are special
Avennia Gravura Red, Columbia Valley 2016 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
Case-6 Avennia Gravura Red, Columbia Valley 2016 750ML ($239.95) $199 special (that’s only $33.17/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2016 Gravura checks in as 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, aged 20 months in 60% new French oak. It’s another rock star of a wine from Chris that sports a saturated purple color, complex notes of blackberries, black cherries, damp earth, and spring flowers, hints of subtle oak, medium body, and perfect balance. Drink this seamless blend over the coming 10-15 years.”
Josh Raynolds 92 points “(about 60% new oak; bottled in June): Bright dark red. Aromas of dark berries, licorice and hot rocks. Plush, smooth and concentrated, with something distinctly old-fashioned about its flavors of black fruits and spices complicated by leather, minerals and warm stones. A good portion of these vines date back to the early 1970s, says winemaker Peterson. Conveys a captivating sweetness owing to its glyceral character and slower wild-yeast fermentation but this is classically dry at less than one gram per liter of residual sugar. (14.6% alcohol)”
Case-6 Marchesi Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato Bolgheri, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($179.95) $119 special
James Suckling 94 points “This second wine shows such a great balance of round tannins and juicy, creamy and chocolate character. Full, flavorful and joyful. Salty and juicy. Savory and even meaty. Drink now or hold.”
Wine Advocate 93+ points “This is absolutely one of the best value wines you will find in Italy and I suspect beyond. The 2016 Bolgheri Rosso Il Bruciato is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 15% Syrah. With more than one million bottles made, there should be no problem finding it at your nearest wine merchant. Once you do locate it, I enthusiastically recommend that you pick up a few cases. This vintage comes together with seamless intensity and smoothness. You get so much dark fruit flavor, paired with soft tannins, spice, smoke and dried blackberry. Il Bruciato pulls off its magic effortlessly. It doesn’t try to be anything other than it is: Delicious.”
The average listed price is $28
Feudi di San Gregorio ‘Rubrato’ Aglianico Irpinia, Campania 2015 750ML ($21.95) $17.75 special
Case-12 Feudi di San Gregorio ‘Rubrato’ Aglianico Irpinia, Campania 2015 750ML ($249.95) $184 special (that’s only $15.33/bottle!)
James Suckling 95 points “This shows such a beautiful density and texture with licorice and blackberry character. Full and layered yet always tight and focused. A fantastic young red. Drink or hold.”
The average price nationally is $19
Case-12 Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone 2017 750ML ($189.95) $149 special (that’s only $12.42/bottle!)
Grapelive 92 points “Saint Cosme’s Cotes-du Rhone, grown on a mix of soils, including red clay, pebbles and limestone sands all hillside vines is partial whole cluster and all tank raised. Always a wine of value and purity it gives a ton of character, personality and never disappoints in any vintage, and this one is an exceptional year. In 2017, low yields produced wines with lots of intensity and depth with hedonistic density, but with vibrant fresh detail, with what Barruol notes, adds crunchiness and salinity to this beautiful red wine. This 2017, which is an amazing follow up to the great 2015 and 2016 versions that I loved, delivers boysenberry, sweet blueberry and plum fruit as well as savory spices, a touch of meat, black licorice and a inner perfume of violets and lavender. Rounded tannins give structure, making this wine perform at a higher level than one would expect and this vintage in particular will age well, maybe a decade or more, impressive for the price!”
James Suckling 91 points “Beautiful, garrigue herbs and flowers across fragrant, red berries. The palate has a very deep-set, plush and ripe core of dark-berry flavors, amid glossy, ripe tannins. Great value. Drink or hold.”
June Sale Recap
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