Monday Vinopolis Newsletter – September 7th 2015

September 7, 2015

Flash Sale; New Week – New Arrivals; Staff Picks; Produttori del Barbaresco; Labor Day Sale

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Happy Labor Day!
We are open for our regularly scheduled hours
10 am – 6 pm

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Flash Sale #1!
In Store Now

Bedrock Wine Co.”The Bedrock Heritage” 2013 750ML ($49.95) Was $42, Now $33, 12 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “The 2013 Bedrock Heritage Wine is one of the most intriguing wines in the range. Smoke, cedar, tobacco and a host of savory notes meld together in a powerful yet nuanced wines built on delineation and energy. Even with all of its intensity, the 2013 remains lifted, floral and light on its feet for such a big wine. This is by far the most polished and refined wine I have tasted from the Bedrock Vineyard, where the wines have often been much riper and bigger.” AG

Flash Sale #2!
Arriving Late September

Billecart-Salmon Cuvee Nicolas Francois Billecart Millesime, Champagne 2002 750ML ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “A mesmerizing, thrilling Champagne, the 2002 Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart is a great example of the vintage at its best. Silky and racy on the palate, yet a bit more restrained than many wines of the year, the Nicolas François Billecart remains vivid and remarkably nuanced. Brioche. apricot jam, wild flowers and honey are some of the many notes that blossom as the Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart shows off its voluptuous personality.”

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OREGON
Crowley Four Winds Vineyard Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($44.95) $38 special
Winery note “Four Winds is an ideal vineyard site for the fresh, acid driven and austere Chardonnay that we aspire to make. Located high in the foothills of the McMinnville Coast Range, these 20 year old Wente clone vines deliver pristine Chardonnay with personality and restrained elegance.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Cristom Sommers Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2012 750ML ($54.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2012 Pinot Noir Sommers Reserve will be released near the end of 2015. It offer lively red berry fruit with redcurrant and wild raspberry scents, fine delineation with cheeky hints of marmalade and orange rind. The palate is medium-bodied and almost feral on the entry, as it seems to shoot off in a different direction. Then the acidity begins to bind it all together to form a cohesive, sorbet-fresh, bay-leaf finish that is long in the mouth. It needs to develop a little more persistence on the balsamic-tinged aftertaste, but otherwise this has good potential.” NM

CALIFORNIA
Varner Wine Amphitheater Block Spring Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Cruz Mountains 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Varner’s Chardonnay Amphitheater Block is rich, ample and super-expressive. Lemon peel, almonds, chamomile, earthiness, dried apricot and sage meld together effortlessly. The 2013 Amphitheater is a classic Varner Chardonnay built on phenolic intensity and plenty of savory/floral notes that add nuance, while the fruit is pushed a bit into the background.” AG

Frank Family Vineyards Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2013 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Winery note “Frank Family Vineyards’ 2013 Napa Valley Chardonnay has a pale yellow straw color. Aromas of fresh tropical fruit, marzipan and honeysuckle jump from the glass. On the palate, the wine has generous notes of sweet vanilla, pear and Meyer lemon. Stone fruits and ripe citrus zest lead to the rich creamy mid palate, and fresh green apple on the finish. The wine has wonderful length and well-balanced acids.”

Frank Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Robert Parker 92 points “[$50 list] The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is a much more friendly, supple, fruit-forward style of wine with loads of créme de cassis, plum, licorice and spice. This opulent, full-bodied wine is certainly going to be a big hit with consumers. It is broad, savory and pretty much everything one wants in a delicious Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Bring on the grilled meats! This wine should drink well for 10-15 years.” RP

FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Domaine Servin Butteaux, Chablis Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($34.95) $26 special
Antonio Galloni 89-90 points “The 2013 Chablis Butteaux is all about subtlety. Here the citrus flavors take on an attractive sense of oiliness and pure texture, with white flowers, white pepper and mint overtones that add brightness. Today the Butteaux is a bit compact, especially on the finish, but that is a relatively small quibble within the context of the year. Saline notes add complexity to the chalky finish.” AG

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Servin Vaillons, Chablis Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($34.95) $26 special
Antonio Galloni 90-92 points “Bright citrus, lemon peel and tangerine notes emerge from the 2013 Chablis Vaillons. One of the more energetic, vibrant 1er Crus at Servin in 2013, the Vaillons stands out for its nuance and crystalline precision.” AG

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Leroy Bourgogne Aligote 2011 750ML ($89.95) $69 special
VinopolNote: One of the few producers to make serious and ageworthy Aligote. A textural and weighty wine.

Domaine Leroy Pommard Les Vignots 2011 750ML ($599.95) $499 special
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2011 Pommard Les Vignots was bottled December 2012. It has a complex, slightly earthy bouquet with subtle marine influences, defined and focused with hints of black olive emerging with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine focus, imbued with an Oriental edge (hoisin) which is folded into a fine silky finish. Drink now-2020.” NM
Burghound “There is a soft touch of wood to the notably ripe yet cool and airy aromas of plum, cassis and wet stone. There is excellent volume and mid-palate concentration to the medium-bodied flavors that brim with dry extract on the detailed finish that exudes a fine minerality. This balanced effort delivers fine depth and length for its level.” BH

FRANCE-RHONE
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc 2012 1.5L ($699.95) $499 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “Much more open, fleshy and sexy, the 2012 Hermitage Blanc was just bottled a month prior to this tasting. Coming from l’Ermite, Les Rocoules, Maison Blanche and Peleat lieux-dits, it’s always a rough blend of 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne that’s aged in barrel. Loaded with notions of honeysuckle, orange marmalade, powered rock, buttered citrus and green almond, it’s full-bodied, rich, upfront and fruit loaded. While I think it will be a relatively accessible early in its life, it has the concentration to hold for two decades.” WA
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94-96 points “Tasted in single-site components from tanks as the wine awaited blending: #1, from Peleat: Ripe pear and honey aromas, with a suave floral accent and a hint of smoky minerals. At once rich and lively, showing excellent back-end power. #2, from Rocoules: Intense, mineral-accented citrus and orchard fruit aromas, with a sexy floral nuance building with air. Bright, focused and mineral-driven, with a strong Meyer lemon quality lingering on the tangy finish. #3, also from Rocoules: Showing more emphasis on orchard fruit than the first Rocoules tank, with powerful quince and pear flavors and a touch of bitter quinine. Dusty minerals sharpen the long, sappy finish. #4, from l’Ermite: Spicy citrus zest and ginger scents along with a chalky mineral note and a hint of anise. Smoky and penetrating, with superb finishing clarity and lingering spiciness. #5, also from l’Ermite: More floral and masculine than the previous l’Ermite, with strong jasmine and orchard fruit character and a touch of bitter quinine. Bright and nervy on the finish, which doesn’t want to let up.” JR

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

FRANCE-LOIRE
Bernard Fouquet Domaine des Aubuisieres Vouvray Cuvee de Silex 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Bernard Fouquet Domaine des Aubuisieres Vouvray Cuvee de Silex 2014 750ML ($219.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Winery note “The Cuvee du Silex 2014 is a dry, soft wine that is a beautifully aromatic expression of Chenin Blanc.”

Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Les Coutes 2014 750ML ($27.95) $20.90 special
Case-12 Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Les Coutes 2014 750ML ($259.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
VinopolNote: Over half of the vines in this steep vineyard are over 50 years old.

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $21.98

Domaine Huet Vouvray Clos du Bourg Sec 2014 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special
Winery note “[Translated] A pretty nose of fresh fruit, mandarin, lime and Ceylon tea. The palate reveals a creamy texture showing finesse. Citrus and chalk on the finish. An elegant wine that has all the potential for long aging.”

Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Haut Lieu Sec 2014 750ML ($31.95) $26 special
Winery note “[Translated] Aromatic nose showing white lilac, honeysuckle and rose. Smooth and delicate with surprising freshness, vivacity and elegance.”

Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Mont Sec 2014 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special
Winery note “[Translated] The 2014 vintage perfectly reflects the expression of our terroir. Le Mont shows intensity, depth and minerality. It shows intense aromas of ripe fruits, such as grapefruit and mango. The mouth is long, showing beautiful minerality and fine flavors of ripe citrus. The finish is long with a touch of eucalyptus. A powerful and complex wine.”

Domaine Huet Vouvray Clos du Bourg Demi-Sec 2014 750ML ($41.95) $33 special
Winery note “[Translated] Superb minerality and perfectly ripe fruit on the nose. In the mouth, it shows notes of papaya, ripe mango and lime. Beautiful harmony between the nose and mouth, very good balance between sugar and acidity. Long finish, finish on a fine note of cinnamon.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $40

Domaine Huet Vouvray Moelleux Clos du Bourg Premiere Trie 2008 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
Wine Spectator 95 points “Starts with a tangy crème fraîche note before giving way to green almond, green tea, chamomile, powdered ginger and mineral notes. So precise it almost comes off as dry in feel, but the finish belies its late harvest with a showy candied citrus peel note. Drink now through 2025. 880 cases made.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $69

Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Haut Lieu Moelleux 2005 375ML ($34.95) $26 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Reflecting a combination of botrytis and sheer desiccation, the 2005 Vouvray Moelleux Le Haut-Lieu smells of spiced apple and quince jelly, grapefruit zest, peony and buddleia, ethereal, honeyed secretions of botrytis and snuffed candle wick. Elegant, wafting and bright on the palate, this finishes with superb clarity and concentration, honeyed richness yet a restrained impression of sweetness (albeit at around 50 grams residual sugar) and offsetting hints of bitterness. Certainly it will in time (and then probably for well more than a decade) serve admirably with a wide array of cuisine but ought on no account be treated as “dessert wine.” ” WA

M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
Case-12 M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche 2014 750ML ($199.95) $149 special
VinopolNote: From organically farmed vineyards in Chinon & Touraine. 100% Cabernet Franc.

ITALY-PIEDMONT
Michele Chiarlo ‘La Court’ Nizza, Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOCG 2011 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Smoke, black cherries, tar, French oak and dark spices wrap around the palate as the 2011 Barbera d’Asti Superiore Nizza La Court shows off its extroverted personality. Pliant, racy and voluptuous, the 2011 is a terrific example of this great Barbera vintage.” AG

ITALY-VENETO
Ca’ La Bionda Valpolicella Classico 2014 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Winery note “80 % Corvina e Corvinone, 20% Rondinella 5% other indigenous varieties among which Molinara. The vineyards are on a hillside facing east at an altitude that varies between 150 and 300 meters above sea-level. The wine opens with a nose of fresh red fruits and floral notes that recall violets. Elegant and light, this wine is all about freshness and easy drinking, a wine to drink everyday in good company and with a wide variety of Italian style foods from pasta to roast meats.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Ca’ La Bionda Vigneti di Ravazzol, Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Winery note “70% Corvina, 20% Corvinone, 10% Rondinella. This wine is a deep ruby red tending towards garnet. The nose is rich and complex with aromas of sour cherries, blackberries, tobacco and candied fruits. The palate is rich and intense with similar fruit characters, fine tannins and exceptional length. This is a wine that will not leave you indifferent. Ideally this wine goes with red meats such as char-grilled steak, slow-cooked stews and game or it can be simply sipped and savoured in “meditation” as we say in Italy.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is over 50% more: $73.95

GERMANY
Weingut Keller ‘Von der Fels Riesling’ Trocken, Rheinhessen 2014 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
John Gilman 92+ points “Year in and year out, I am a huge fan of the von der Fels bottling and the 2014 vintage is another outstanding wine in the making. This is a touch fuller than the straight Riesling Trocken, coming in at twelve percent alcohol, and perhaps a bit more ageworthy as well. The excellent nose wafts from the glass in a mix of pink grapefruit, tangerine, petrol, a stunningly complex base of minerality, lemongrass and a topnote of orange peel. On the palate the wine is fullbodied, pure and very much defined by its complex soil tones, with a rock solid core, outstanding focus and grip and a very long, youthful and bouncy finish. This is still very early days for this outstanding wine, which is the same quality level of a lot of top estates Grosses Gewächs bottlings. 2019-2040.” JG

SPAIN
Binigrau ‘Nounat’ Vi de la Terra Mallorca, Balearic Islands 2014 750ML ($31.95) $28 special
Importer note “Always roughly equal parts Prensal and Chardonnay the Nounat is hard to characterize. There is a certain Burgundian quality but with a more saline and volcanic minerality. The Prensal is aged for 7 months in stainless steel and concrete egg while the Chardonnay spends the same amount of time in French oak. Bottled unfiltered.”

ARGENTINA
Kaiken Terroir Series Corte Cabernet Sauvignon – Malbec – Petit Verdot, Mendoza 2012 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
Case-12 Kaiken Terroir Series Corte Cabernet Sauvignon – Malbec – Petit Verdot, Mendoza 2012 750ML ($219.95) $149 special
James Suckling 93 points “This is beautiful and sexy with lots of dark fruits, dark chocolate and hints of vanilla bean. Cappuccino too. There’s lots of new wood showing but it’s integrated and delicious. Cabernet sauvignon, malbec and petit verdot. Drink now.” JS

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Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:

For the Mid-West, East, and South during the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments that would normally travel four or more business days to their destination.

We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25

These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment do not qualify for flat rate shipping.

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Staff Picks

Swick Wines “Blanc de Noir,” Cancilla Vineyard, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($24.95) $19 pre-arrival special – arriving Friday!
“Joe Swick is a new producer, though he enters the market with 15 vintages of experience in Oregon (at Owen Roe, Sineann and Penner Ash), California, New Zealand and around the world. The Blanc de Noir is all Pinot Noir from the all-organic Cancilla Vineyard produced as a white wine (think still Champagne without the yeastiness). Joe stopped malolactic fermentation part way to retain acidity. The wine was aged in neutral barrel. It shows vibrant aromas of red currants, cranberries, and white flowers. On the palate, it has an intriguing waxy characteristic with bright acidity and lingering notes hinting at tart berries.”

-Suzanne

Olga Raffault Chinon “Les Picasses” 2002 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
“Sweater weather” is my jam. Still enough sunshine, but the cooler nights let me bust out the tweed jackets. Our weekly CSA brings in tons of garlic, still some tomatoes, and more zucchini than I know what to do with. Times like these call for a wine which is stoic but playful; versatile and yet committed: look no further than a Chinon with some age on her.

“The wines of Raffault are great because you get to peek into the library releases without breaking the bank. The ’02 is perfect companion to autumnal foods – just enough funk, not overwhelming in body or power, and happily spread out on the flavor spectrum. Stewed mushrooms, crushed black pepper, tobacco, bell pepper, a fistful of earth… If you’re not going to drink this stuff up, I will!”

-Tyler

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Produttori del Barbaresco
Revisting a classic

Every great band starts in a garage, but what about wineries? Produttori del Barbaresco, for one, produced its first three vintages in the basement of a church. Unlike most rock n’ roll stories, however, this began with a priest and a dream.

It all began in 1958, and the project linked the efforts of nineteen small winegrowers with the intention of making quality wines while ensuring each of the growers could stay maintain control of their land while earning a living wage. This undertaking has grown to include 52 members who occupy over 100 hectares, producing single-vineyard cuvees from nine premier vineyards: Asili, Montefico, Montestefano, Muncagota, Ovello, Pajè, Pora, Rabajà, and Rio Sordo.

The aim of Produttori has been to communicate the individual terroir of a given place from vintage to vintage; prolonged aging and traditional winemaking has lent the domaine a reputation for both consistency and quality. We’re proud to offer a wide range of their wines, seen below.

Produttori Wines Available Here Now

Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Barbaresco DOCG’ 2011 750ML ($37.95) $29 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 93 points “Marked by ripe cherry, strawberry, floral and tar flavors, this red is graceful and detailed, with the fruit intensity persisting on the finish. This is well-integrated, and just needs time for the tannins to soften. Excellent length. Best from 2018 through 2030.”

Produttori Del Barbaresco Barbaresco 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 25 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2010 Barabresco opens to beautiful aromas of forest floor, white truffle and cola. All the fruit from Produttori del Barbaresco’s single-vineyard wines are packed into this one base Barbaresco. The wine is sharp and focused and, although it does not have the soft generosity of 2009 or 2011, this is a wine of enormous elegance. I did not find the mouthfeel to be exceedingly thin. In fact, I noted the persistence, freshness and liveliness of the finish.” ML
James Suckling 92 points “Beautiful aromas of white truffles, plums and berries. Hints of spices. Full to medium body with fine tannins and beautiful licorice, berry and fennel seed. Very pretty length. Drinkable now but better in 2015.” JS

Produttori Del Barbaresco Paje 2007 750ML ($59.95) $44 special, 5 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Paje comes across as a bit simple in this vintage. It shows good fleshiness and lovely inner sweetness in a fairly approachable style. I don’t see the pedigree of the finest 2007 Riservas here. In exchange, though, readers will find a highly attractive, forward Barbaresco that will drink well right out of the gate. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.”WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Pora 2007 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2007 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is the revelation among the 2007s. Pora is one of the warmer microclimates in Barbaresco owing to its proximity to the Tanaro River. In most vintages Pora is a fairly open wine. The 2007 captures the very best qualities of this site in a radiant, deep expression of fruit. The wine literally covers every inch of the palate as it fleshes out in the glass. The Pora will never be one of the most complex wines here, but today it is immensely enjoyable, not to mention that the 2007 is one of the very finest Poras in recent memory. It will be great to drink young, but also appears to have the stuffing to age well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027.”WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Asili 2008 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “One of the absolute highlights in this portfolio of utterly amazing wines, the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Asili possesses marvelous depth and richness, but also little of the early approachability and sexiness of Asili. With time in the glass, the wine’s inner perfume gradually emerges, but ultimately this is a Barbaresco to bury in the deepest corner of the cellar. Once again, the Produttori have done a fabulous job with the Asili. The 2008 has nerves of steel and a huge, never-ending finish. It is by far the most imposing and structured Asili I have ever tasted from the Produttori. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” AG

Produttori Del Barbaresco Montefico 2008 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico hits the palate with a blast of fruit intermingled with copious acidity and pure structure. Montefico shares a boundary with Ovello, and shows many of the structural elements typically associated with that side, but with more depth in its fruit, probably because of the southern exposure. The high altitude of these parcels ensures there is plenty of freshness and vibrancy. The Montefico is dazzling, but it will require considerable patience. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2048” AG

Produttori Del Barbaresco Montestefano 2008 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 16 bottles available
Produttori Del Barbaresco Montestefano 2008 1.5L ($139.95) $119 special, 9 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Among the more structured 2008s, the Montestefano is the wine that most hides its tannin, as the fruit is intensely perfumed, rich and totally seductive. Today the Montestefano provides the illusion of being relatively accessible, but it is virtually certain to shut down in bottle. The 2008 boasts striking aromatics, seemingly endless layers of fruit and power to burn. Readers can think of the Montestefano as a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabaja. Not bad, to say the least. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” AG

Produttori Del Barbaresco Muncagota 2008 750ML ($59.95) $41.90 special, 11 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is arguably the most open and expressive of the 2008 Riservas. It presents a gorgeous soft core of fruit to match an open personality. Although I wouldn’t suggest opening any of the 2008 Riservas for pleasure anytime soon, readers who want to get an early look at the wines should start with the Muncagota. Sweet rose petals add nuance to the vibrant fruit on the structured finish. This is a great showing from the Muncagota. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.” WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Ovello 2008 1.5L ($139.95) $119 special, 13 magnums available
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The Produttori’s 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a reference point wine for the village, even if, in truth, Ovello is a fairly diverse zone with many exposures. Firm, steely tannins support a core of expressive fruit in this vibrant, energetic Barbaresco. The 2008 is going to require considerable patience, but it is striking, even today. Sweet floral notes reappear on the vivid, utterly breathtaking finish, adding lift, precision and vibrancy. This is a stunning wine from the Produttori. The style is built on tension, energy and focus; in other words, all the qualities Ovello is known for. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Pora 2008 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Playing true to type, the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is another of the more open wines in this vintage. But that is only in relative terms. Layers of expressive red fruit, crushed flowers and spices flesh out in this radiant Barbaresco. In most vintages the Pora is one of the more accessible of the Riservas when young. The close proximity of the vineyard to the Tanaro River results in a warm microclimate that ripens the fruit earlier than elsewhere. In 2008, though, the Pora packs a serious punch. The coolness of the late harvest comes through in a finish laced with considerable tension and minerality. This is easily one of the very best Poras I have ever tasted from the Produttori. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” AG

Produttori Del Barbaresco Rabaja 2008 1.5L ($219.95) $199 special, 17 magnums available
Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is utterly magnificent in this vintage. Usually a powerhouse, the 2008 is incredibly refined to the point it seems to literally hover on the palate. It is a wine of exquisite grace and beauty. All the elements are in place. I could describe the aromas and flavors, but that would be doing this majestic Barbaresco a huge disservice. Ultimately, the 2008 Rabaja, is all about textural finesse and pure elegance. This is another breathtaking wine from the Produttori. A king among kings. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Montestefano 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 2 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano brings together the best qualities of the vintage, with a solid core of intense fruit, expressive aromatics and a measure of tannic heft that will keep the wine fresh and vibrant for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice and leather notes flesh out on the huge, voluptuous finish. In 2009, the Montestefano is fabulous.” AG

Produttori Del Barbaresco Pora 2009 750ML ($59.95) $44 special, 3 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Firm tannins provide the backbone for the 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Pora. Bigger and richer on the palate than it often is, the 2009 Pora is also quite beautiful in this vintage. Sweet floral and mint notes wrap around the palate in this impeccable, beautifully balanced, mid-weight Barbaresco from the Produttori. The 2009 impresses for its pliancy and generosity. Today, the tannins are a bit four-squared, but there is enough depth in the fruit to make me think the wine will come together a little more fully with more time in bottle.” AG

Produttori Del Barbaresco Rabaja 2009 750ML ($69.96) $59 special, 19 bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is an impeccable wine that shows the strength, generosity and elegance that this important vineyard site is known for. Most significant is the wine’s structure that is endearing and firm but also supple. It shows power and a silken touch. Dark fruit, spice, licorice and herb make for a perfect fusion of aromas. The mouthfeel shows balanced power and vigor. This wine will improve with time. It is at the mere beginning of a long evolution.” ML
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Dark cherries, menthol, cloves, cinnamon and leather wrap around the palate in the 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà. A rich, layered, enveloping wine, the Rabajà is a wine that shows plenty of character and personality. Deep, implosive and full of personality, the Rabajà is another wine that delivers tons of character, class and personality.” AG

Produttori Wines Arriving in October 2015

Produttori Del Barbaresco Barbaresco 2008 750ML ($39.95) $31.50 pre-arrival special
Produttori Del Barbaresco Barbaresco 2008 1.5L ($99.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 91+ points “The Produttori’s 2008 Barbaresco is simply fabulous. A sweet bouquet melds into expressive fruit in a Barbaresco that is exceptionally polished and refined. The 2008 boasts striking sweetness and inner perfume to match its understated, elegant personality. Quite frankly, the 2008 is very hard to resist today, as the tannins are quite polished. Unusually sweet, silky and refined, the 2008 will take the better part of a decade to show the full breadth of its pedigree. At $37, it is one of the very finest values in ageworthy wine from anywhere in the world. This is a magnificent showing from the Produttori and a great introduction to the 2008 harvest at this historic house. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.”WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Paje 2008 750ML ($59.95) $47 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Paje wraps around the palate with layers of dark fruit, spices and menthol. Today, the Paje is one of the more open of the 2008 Riservas, but there is plenty going on in the glass. Sweet floral and spiced notes add lift on the finish. As good as the Paje is, it also tends to shut down quickly in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Ovello 2008 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori Del Barbaresco Ovello 2008 750ML ($719.95) $649 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The Produttori’s 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a reference point wine for the village, even if, in truth, Ovello is a fairly diverse zone with many exposures. Firm, steely tannins support a core of expressive fruit in this vibrant, energetic Barbaresco. The 2008 is going to require considerable patience, but it is striking, even today. Sweet floral notes reappear on the vivid, utterly breathtaking finish, adding lift, precision and vibrancy. This is a stunning wine from the Produttori. The style is built on tension, energy and focus; in other words, all the qualities Ovello is known for. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” WA

Produttori Del Barbaresco Rabaja 2008 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 96+ points “The 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is utterly magnificent in this vintage. Usually a powerhouse, the 2008 is incredibly refined to the point it seems to literally hover on the palate. It is a wine of exquisite grace and beauty. All the elements are in place. I could describe the aromas and flavors, but that would be doing this majestic Barbaresco a huge disservice. Ultimately, the 2008 Rabaja, is all about textural finesse and pure elegance. This is another breathtaking wine from the Produttori. A king among kings. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.” WA

Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $47 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($599.95) $519 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: In Asili, the grapes are from calcium-rich limestone vineyard land. The vineyard produces exceptionally rich and age-worthy wines.

Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($519.95) $459 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: The Montefico vineyard produces intensely mineral wines with spicy fruit and exceptional ageing potential from the calcareous limestone.

Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 1.5L ($119.95) $89 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($519.95) $459 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: The Montestefano vineyard produces a dark, ripe and rich wine with thick texture.

Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($469.95) $419 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: Muncagota has a South-Eastern exposure and produces elegant and floral wines with lingering tannins.

Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 1.5 ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($519.95) $459 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: Expect the Ovello wines to be full with rich red fruit.

Produttori del Barbaresco Paje, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Paje, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($469.95) $419 special
VinopolNote: With its South-Western and Western exposure, the Paje vineyard produces complex wines with bright fruit aromas.

Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $44 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($519.95) $459 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: Pora vineyard wines are lighter, with rich fruit and earthy notes, and integrates tannin more quickly.

Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($599.95) $519 special
VinopolNote: Wines from the Rabaja vineyard are complex with silky tannins and dark fruit aromas.

Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2011 750ML ($469.95) $419 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: The Rio Sordo vineyard produces elegant, lingering wines with silky tannins and medium body.

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Happy Labor Day!
We’ve slashed prices on select wines for the weekend
Last chance: special pricing ends tonight at 11:59 pm

CALIFORNIA
Terlato Family Vineyards Pinot Grigio, Russian River Valley 2011 750ML ($21.95) Was $10.90, Now $9, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Terlato Family Vineyards Pinot Grigio, Russian River Valley 2011 750ML ($219.95) Was $99, Now $89, 3 cases available (that’s only $8.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
“Ripe and forward with Meyer lemon, lime, green apple and honeysuckle flavors. The finish is off dry and zesty in acidity. What an easy wine to drink with Asian, Ethiopian, Indian or Mexican fare, or by itself as a cocktail sipper.”–Wine Enthusiast

Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($59.95) Was $39, Now $33, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 88-90 points “Hall’s 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is laced with attractive plum, mocha, licorice, spices and menthol notes. This juicy, highly expressive Cabernet Sauvignon is shaping up beautifully. It should drink well pretty much upon release.” AG

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $49

Araujo Estate Altagracia Red, Napa Valley 2011 750ML ($149.95) Was $119, Now $99, 16 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2011 Altagracia is round, sexy, supple and beautiful, especially within the context of the year. Sweet red berries, mint, tobacco, savory herbs and anise meld together in a distinctive wine long on personality. With time in the glass the wine fleshes out nicely, as the flavors become darker, richer and layered. Altagracia is a blend of mostly Eisele fruit, plus a bit of Vine Hill Ranch, a well-draining site in Oakville that is among Napa Valley’s very best. The blend is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec.” WA

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $141

FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Louis Jadot Montrachet Grand Cru 2011 750ML ($419.95) Was $399, Now $349, 3 bottles available
Burghound 94-97 points “Here the nose is notably more reserved with aromas of citrus zest, spice, wood toast, fennel and spice hints. This is also a very imposingly-scaled wine with its big, muscular and wonderfully complex flavors that culminate in a long, focused and explosive finish of breathtaking length and intensity. This overtly powerful effort should reward at least a decade in the cellar and drink well for another. A ‘wow’ wine.” BH

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $419.99

Louis Jadot Clos Saint-Jacques, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($169.95) Was $129, Now $99, 13 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92-94 points “Good medium red. Red berries, coffee and mocha on the nose, with a note of blood orange emerging with air. Began large-scaled and spicy but rather inexpressive, but aeration brought greater sweetness of fruit and elegance, with a whiff of blood orange providing lift. Ultimately more expansive than the Estournelles but this wine will need at least a few years in the cellar following its release.” ST

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $135

Louis Jadot Clos Saint-Jacques, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($219.95) Was $179, Now $149, 13 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2012 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos Saint-Jacques has a fragrant bouquet: floral at first with touches of violet, later revealing a stony scents, hints of chalk dust and flint surfacing with time. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and impressive focus. It feels composed in the mouth with good matiere, yet it remains sophisticated and tense right to the finish. There is nothing flash here, just pure quality.” WA

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $159.99

Domaine Faiveley Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru 2011 750ML ($349.95) Was $279, Now $239, 30 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 94 (+?) points “Medium red. Highly nuanced yet quite primary on the nose, offering scents of raspberry, underbrush, dried rose, ginger and smoky oak. Juicy, saline and quite dry, with dark berry and strawberry flavors complicated by an earthy perfume. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and excellent length. With 24 hours in the recorked bottle, this beauty showed a silkier texture and chewy, deep flavors of raspberry and spices that saturate the palate without leaving any impression of weight. A great effort for the vintage.” ST

ARGENTINA
Achaval Ferrer Finca Mirador Malbec, Maipu 2011 750ML ($119.95) Was $99, Now $79, 36+ bottles available
Wine Spectator 96 points “This pure, racy red exhibits a dark side, with layers of spice, graphite and maduro tobacco to the crushed raspberry, blackberry and concentrated cassis fruit. Needs time in the cellar. Best from 2015 through 2022.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99.99
The average price is $119