Monday, April 27, 2015
Flash Sale
Quintessa Red, Rutherford 2011 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 5 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Cellar Selection: For the 2011 vintage, Winemaker Charles Thomas blended Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot from the winery’s 280-acre biodynamic and organically farmed estate in the heart of Rutherford. The effect is memorable, the wine pungent in red plum and cherry. Light, layered and elegantly smooth on the palate, it has a backdrop of black pepper and clove. Cellar through 2025.”
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “(94% cabernet with 4% merlot, 1% cab franc and 1% petit verdot): Full ruby-red. Inviting aromas of spicy red and black fruits, licorice, wild herbs and pepper. Juicy and spicy, showing more density and purity of fruit than the Faust bottling. Spicy dark berry flavors are complicated by black olive, wild herbs and a hint of leather and lifted by an attractive violet element. Finishes with pliant tannins, good mineral lift and lingering perfume. Winemaker Charles Thomas told me that the use of an optical sorter in 2011 allowed the estate to hang its fruit for an extra few days, despite the humid conditions.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $117.93
The average price is $138
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New Arrival Special Feature
Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno Toscana IGT 2012 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 24 bottles available
James Suckling 97 points “Fabulous aromas of blackberries, orange peel, raspberries and citrus. Violets too. Full body, ultra-fine tannins and a light, dusty texture. It’s so fine and beautiful, racy and refined. Very structured indeed but also soulful and very, very inspiring. There’s a new refinement to this wine as the winemakers search for a truly beautiful expression of the terroir. Better in 2017 but a joy to taste now.” JS
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This Week’s New Arrivals
OREGON
Owen Roe O’Reilly’s Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Violin Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Winemaker’s note “A blend of five vineyards expressing generous red fruit, savory sweet spices and enticing forest floor and earth. Silky tannins, moderate acidity and exceptional length. 20% Eola Springs Vineyard (Eola-Amity Hills), 35% Methven Family Vineyard (Eola-Amity Hills), 30% Solena Estate (Yamhill Carlton District), 8% Sunny Mountain Vineyard (Monroe), 7% First Man Vineyard (Gaston). 350 cases produced.”
Violin Sunny Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Winemaker’s note “Sunny Mountain Vineyard was planted high on windy Rattlesnake Ridge just south of Monroe, Oregon by industry veteran Steve Price in 2006. A unique climate for Pinot Noir, the wines from Sunny Mountain have a distinctly red fruit profile, naturally root and herb-like understones and wonderfully broad, ripe mouth-coating tannins. 70 cases produced.”
Violin Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
Winemaker’s note “Eola-Amity Hills AVA experiences the most consistent effects of the moderating influence of the ocean’s cool breezes. This three barrel selection showcases intense floral and fruit aromas, juicy mouthwatering acidity and increased density with a long and sweet-fruited finish. 70 cases produced.”
These are the only listings for Violin in the USA today!
Elevee Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2012 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Re-arriving Wednesday, April 29th
From the winery “With a brilliant garnet color, this delicate wine reveals cherries, raspberries, lilacs, dried tea leaf, and sweet tobacco, with hints of anise, mint and baking spice, around a mineral core. This is a full body wine, with lively acidity, and broad, fine tannin that persists pleasurably on the palate. The long finish lingers with a cascade of cherries and tea leaf, ending with a touch of clove, rose petal, and Dundee dust.”
WASHINGTON
Columbia Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($16.95) $14 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Dense and focused, playing the coffee and mineral-accented blackberry flavors against a blanket of fine tannins, coming together smoothly on the purposeful finish. Best from 2016 through 2019.” WS
Owen Roe Abbot’s Table Red 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “A blend of Zinfandel (41%), Sangiovese (34%), Lemberger (9%), Malbec (11%) and Merlot, this appealing wine suggests plum, currant and red fruit. It’s supple in feel with cranberry and raspberry flavors backed by tart acidity.” WE
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
CALIFORNIA
The Prisoner Wine Co. (fka Orin Swift) ‘The Prisoner’ Napa Valley 2013 ($44.95) $36 special
Case-12 ‘The Prisoner’ Napa Valley 2013 ($479.95) $399 special (that’s only $33.25/bottle!)
Case special ends April 30
Robert Parker 92 points “The 2013 Proprietary Red Blend The Prisoner is a creative blend of 44% Zinfandel, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petite Sirah, as well as Syrah, Grenache and Chardonnay. This dense, full-bodied, opulent red reveals gutsy, rich, peppery, meaty, blackberry, blackcurrant and licorice notes. A savory, lusty, heady red, it begs for a grilled steak or a big, juicy hamburger. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. (Oct 2014)”
Wine Spectator 91 points “Bold and stylish, with dark cherry, toasty oak and black pepper aromas and briary, dense flavors of blackberry, espresso and grilled anise. The tannins tighten on the finish. Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Charbono. Drink now through 2021. (4/22/15)”
Producer notes “44% Zinfandel, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Petite Sirah, 16% Syrah, 2% Charbono. Aromas of briar fruits and dried cherry are accented by hints of vanilla and toasted oak. On the palate, tiers of blueberry, ripe mulberry and boysenberry give way to an edge of espresso, cracked pepper and a seasoning of fall spice. These dense aromas and flavors culminate in a lingering finish framed by refined tannins. Barrel aged in French and American oak (30% new).”
FRANCE-BORDEAUX
Chateau Boutisse, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2010 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
Wine Spectator 91 points “A plush, alluring style, with velvety tannins letting the raspberry ganache, blackberry pâte de fruit and plum sauce notes glide along, backed by accents of charcoal and singed apple wood on the finish. Drink now through 2020.” WS
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Domaine Michel Niellon Chassagne-Montrache 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Pale straw-yellow. Aromatic nose features pear and flowers. Smooth and light on its feet, with harmonious ripe acidity energizing the middle palate. With its attractive sugar/acid balance and firm spine, this is more vibrant than the 2012 village wine. Drink or hold. Coutoux noted that the yield here was almost 60 hectoliters per hectares, compared to 40 in 2012. But this wine has more charm.” ST
Olivier Leflaive Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2011 750ML ($149.95) $115 special
Wine Spectator 94 points “This is well-marked by new oak, with plenty of stuffing underneath. Notes of lime, white flowers, apple, sweet spice and petrol ride a wave of vibrant acidity as this stays linear and defined through the long finish. The lime and mineral accents are enhanced by spice details in the aftertaste. Best from 2017 through 2028. 62 cases imported.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Olivier Leflaive Charmes, Meursault Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($119.95) $99 special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Starts out rich and smooth, with peach, apple, vanilla and clove notes, turning tight and compact on the finish. A vivid acidity underpins this white, leading to a lingering aftertaste. Best from 2016 through 2025. 37 cases imported.” WS
Domaine de la Pousse d’Or En Cailleret Clos des 60 Ouvrees, Volnay Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2008 Volnay Clos des Soixante Ouvrées possesses striking richness and depth. Deep, dark, and inward, the Soixante Ouvrées flows with the essence of black fruit, tar and licorice. This is a surprisingly big, rich wine for the year.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine de Montille Les Malconsorts Cuvee Christiane, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($699.95) $619 special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 94-96 points “(100% vendange entier; the yield here was 32 hectoliters per hectare, according to de Montille): Good dark red-ruby. Another dimension of ripeness on the nose, with raspberry and cherry fruit complicated by cardamom, coriander, peony and graphite. Superb acidity gives cut to the dark cherry and spice flavors without detracting from the wine’s utterly spherical texture. Great depth and building length here, with the finish featuring invisible tannins. This beauty leaves the mouth perfumed.” ST
This is the only listing in the USA today!
FRANCE-RHONE
Domaine Les Grands Bois Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Les Trois Soeurs Rose 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Rose 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
FRANCE-LOIRE
Domaine La Grange Tiphaine Touraine Amboise Cuvee Bel Air Sec 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche Rose 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Terre de Maimbray Rose 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
FRANCE-OTHER
Domaine des Cassagnoles Gros Manseng, IGP Cotes de Gascogne 2014 750ML ($14.95) $9.90 special
Case-12 Domaine des Cassagnoles Gros Manseng, IGP Cotes de Gascogne 2014 750ML ($149.95) $99 special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Leon Desfrieches et Fils Le Pere Jules Pommeau de Normandie NV 750ML ($34.95) $29 special
“This product is the result of the subtle marriage of freshly pressed apple cider and Calvados that has been aged for one year. Afterward, it is aged in oak barrels for several years, where the flavor will be transformed to result in a finished product with a smooth harmonious taste filled with aromas. It’s the “aperitif,” or before dinner drink, par excellence from Normandy.”–Producer Notes
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
ITALY-PIEDMONT
Giovanni Rocca Mosconi, Barolo DOCG2010 750ML ($57.95) $41.90 special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Medicinal herb, amaro and leather accents complement the cherry and plum core in this sinewy red. The bright fruit and rich texture bode well for the future. Balanced and long, but needs time. Best from 2018 through 2033. 100 cases made.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Giovanni Rocca Barolo Ravera di Monforte 2010 750ML ($44.95) $38 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Rich and supple, broad on the attack, this boasts cherry, raspberry and chalky mineral flavors. Tobacco and tar notes creep in, leaving a chalky sensation on the finish. Shows some power and austerity in the end. Best from 2018 through 2030. 670 cases made.”
Elio Altare Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($79.95) $61.90 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2010 Barolo wraps around the palate with plums, mocha, smoke, menthol, spices and new leather. This is an unusually dark, muscular style for a straight Barolo. The shoulders are broad, but at the same time, there is more than enough richness to balance the tannins. The 2010 should drink well pretty much upon release, as it is packed with fruit, supple in personality and full of near-term appeal. Altare sources fruit from La Morra, Castiglione Falletto and Serralunga for his Barolo.” AG
Elio Altare Vigneto Arborina, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($119.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Altare’s 2010 Barolo Arborina bristles on the palate with striking energy and finesse. Freshly cut flowers, mint, sweet spices, licorice and rose petals all meld together in a layered, impeccable Barolo loaded with class. The flavors are bright, chiseled and beautifully nuanced. The 2010 finishes with marvelous freshness and tons of saline-infused nuances.” AG
Elio Altare Cerretta Vigna Bricco, Barolo DOCG 2008 750ML ($129.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2008 Barolo Vigna Bricco Cerretta shows the muscle of Serralunga within the context of the year. Dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and tar are some of the nuances that emerge from this refined Barolo. There is plenty of density in the glass. The 2008 is rich, deep and muscular all the way through to the finish. There is plenty of Serraluga character here.” AG
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
ITALY-TUSCANY
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico DOCG 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
James Suckling 93 points “There are mushrooms on the nose of this Chianti Classico, but these soon give way to subtle, deep aromas of blackberry crumble with hints of mint and ivy. It soon fills up the mouth with beautifully dense fruit and fine tannins, nutty, woody undertones and long finish. Gorgeous now, but better in 2016.”
Antonio Galloni 89+ points “The 2012 Chianti Classico is a great introduction to the wines of Felsina. Deeply varietal and expressive to the core, the 2012 graces the palate with the essence of Sangiovese from the southern part of the Chianti Classico zone. Sweet tobacco, underbrush, menthol, licorice and black cherries flow through to the finish, but it is the wine’s sheer balance that impresses most of all. This is a gorgeous mid-weight Chianti Classico to drink over the next decade plus.” AG
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2010 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2010 Chianti Classico Riserva is host to a beautiful mix of black mineral, fruit, dried mint and eucalyptus. The wine shows elegant evolution in the glass and backs it up with dry, polished tannins. This is a stunning effort available at a reasonable price. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. This is one of the nicest collections of new releases by Giuseppe Mazzocolin’s Felsina. At the edge of the Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi denominations, the estate counts 475 hectares, of which 61 are planted with vineyard.” WA
Antonio Galloni 92+ points “Classicists, on the other hand, will flip out over the 2010 Chianti Classico Riserva. Black cherry, plum, smoke and menthol notes all jump out of the glass. The 2010 is translucent yet also rich, powerful and impeccably balanced. Ideally readers should cellar the 2010 for at least a few years, but that is going to be difficult considering how beautiful the wine is today.” AG
GERMANY
Keller Riesling Von der Fels Trocken 2013 ($39.95) $33 special
Case-12 Keller Riesling Von der Fels Trocken 2013 ($419.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 95 points ‘Editors Choice – Keller’s Grosses Gewächs offerings are hard to come by, even in Germany, but the von der Fels offers GG quality fruit at a markedly gentle price. Orchestral in complexity, it’s dry, yet plump with stone fruit and a cashew-nut richness. Taut with acidity, it maintains a dancing, shimmering vitality throughout. It’s stunning already, but sure to gain power and density from 2020 on.” WE
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:
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
Elevee Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2012 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Arriving Wednesday, April 29th!
“A nice gem from Tom Fitzpatrick, who also is the winemaker at Alloro Vineyards in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. His own vineyard, in Dundee Hills, is where his first bottling comes from. Delicate with wonderful layers of red fruits, mint, and spice. Nicely integrated tannins and vibrant acidity round out the long, lingering finish. A classic Dundee Pinot, especially for the price. Only 100 cases produced.”
-Troy
Owen Roe Abbot’s Table Red 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
“Abbot’s Table is a long-time favorite in the Portland area and is named in honor of a meal the winemaker shared with an abbot when traveling in Europe. This bold blend of grape varieties is delightfully aromatic, offering ample notes of warm baking spices, charred wood, black raspberry jam, and a hint of menthol on the finish. It is full-bodied with a bright acidity that keeps the palate fresh. Great for barbecue, burgers or grilled vegetables.”
-Suzy
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Bruna Grimaldi
Arriving May 1st
Bruna Grimaldi took over her family’s estate from her father, Giovanni, and produced her first wine in 1999 with her husband, Franco Fiorino. The estate she inherited included vineyards in Grinzane Cavour from her father’s side and the Badarina vineyard in Serralunga from her mother’s side. Since taking over, she has replanted in some areas where necessary and purchased additional parcels including in the Bricco Ambrogio.
In the vineyard, she green harvests to ensure optimum maturity. No herbicides or pesticides are used in the vineyard. Ripening is measured by analyzing sugar content, acidity and polyphenols so harvest is performed at peak ripeness. The grapes are harvested in bunches to preserve their integrity until they reach the winery where they undergo rigorous sorting. The goal is to produce full-bodied wines with intense aromas that highlight the best of the soil and vineyards.
In the family winery and cellar, the wines undergo natural fermentation in stainless steel before being aged in large wood barrels and tonneaux. She produces three cru Barolos: Barolo Badarina from Serralunga, Barolo Camilla from Grinzane Cavour and Barolo Bricco Ambrogio from Roddi.
Bruna Grimaldi Wines Arriving May 1st
Bruna Grimaldi Camilla, Barolo DOCG 2011 750ML ($49.95) $31.90 pre-arrival special
Bruna Grimaldi Badarina Vigna Regnola, Barolo DOCG 2008 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Aromatic, showing mint, cherry, licorice and clove notes backed by a thick base of tannins. A savory, mineral element enters at midpalate and lingers on the complex aftertaste. Shows fine balance overall. Best from 2017 through 2037” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Bruna Grimaldi Badarina Vigna Regnola, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $41.90 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 92+ points “this 1.5-hectare plot, planted on shallow white soil at a high altitude of 420 meters in Serralunga, is the estate’s “original” vineyard, where Bruna Grimaldi’s grandfather was born; the only Barolo for which Grimaldi uses cappello sommerso for extraction): Medium-deep red. Complex aromas of raspberry, truffle, smoke and underbrush. Large-scaled, concentrated and rich, offering powerful, lightly medicinal flavors of raspberry and strawberry complicated by licorice and menthol. This very young wine finishes dry and broad, with serious granular tannins calling for extended aging. The Badarina spends a full 36 months in oak and is released a year later than the other Barolos of its vintage. (Grimaldi kept a bit of this fruit in both 2010 and 2009 to make a reserve bottling, but the 2009 will not be released until 2015.)” ST
Bruna Grimaldi Bricco Ambrogio, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 91+ points “(from 40-year-old vines on marly soil on the Roddi side of the hill close to Grinzane Cavour): Medium red. Highly aromatic nose combines candied red cherry, strawberry, botanical herbs and spices. A step up in inner-mouth tension from the Camilla, offering juicy, intense flavors of red fruits and spices lifted by a floral perfume. Sweet, fine-grained wine with a brisk, juicy, very persistent finish featuring lingering aromatic character. Incidentally, Grimaldi told me she’d rather drink her Barolos with cheese or chocolate than with meat.” ST
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Some Some Summertime
Chillin’ While You’re Grillin’
Domaine Les Grands Bois Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Les Trois Soeurs Rose 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
M. Plouzeau Chinon Rive Gauche Rose, Loire 2014 750ML ($19.95) $14 special
Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Terre de Maimbray Rose, Loire 2014 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Rose, Rhone 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Everybody Should Eat More Fish
Jorge Ordonez & Co Nisia Verdejo, Rueda 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Nisia Old Vines Rueda Light yellow-gold. Musky, mineral-laced orchard and citrus fruit aromas are complicated by hints of jasmine, green tea and quinine. Sappy and precise on the palate, offering bitter pear skin and Meyer lemon flavors that put on weight with air. Closes fleshy and long, with supple pear and melon qualities and very good clarity.” JR
Bodegas Avanthia (Avancia) Cuvee de O, Valdeorras 2012 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Light, bright yellow. Expressive nose displays scents of fresh pear, yellow peach and honeysuckle, along with a smoky undertone. Rich, layered and expansive, with sappy pit fruit and spice flavors lifted by harmonious acidity. Really coats the palate with spice-accented fruit on the long, seamless finish. Broad and fleshy without coming across as heavy, and delicious right now.” JR
Mo’ Better Burger Wines
Stefano Farina Le Brume Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2009 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Charred oak aromas mark this dense red, which offers black cherry and blackberry flavors augmented by roasted vanilla, clove and smoke elements. Modern in style, with no holds barred. This won’t appeal to everyone. Barbera, Nebbiolo and Merlot. Drink now through 2020.” WS
Spend on the Steaks – Save on the Wine
Columbia Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($16.95) $14 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Dense and focused, playing the coffee and mineral-accented blackberry flavors against a blanket of fine tannins, coming together smoothly on the purposeful finish. Best from 2016 through 2019.” WS
The Prisoner Wine Co. (fka Orin Swift) ‘The Prisoner’ Napa Valley 2013 ($44.95) $36 special
Case-12 ‘The Prisoner’ Napa Valley 2013 ($479.95) $399 special
Case special ends April 30
Robert Parker 92 points “The 2013 Proprietary Red Blend The Prisoner is a creative blend of 44% Zinfandel, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petite Sirah, as well as Syrah, Grenache and Chardonnay. This dense, full-bodied, opulent red reveals gutsy, rich, peppery, meaty, blackberry, blackcurrant and licorice notes. A savory, lusty, heady red, it begs for a grilled steak or a big, juicy hamburger. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. (Oct 2014)”
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Guiseppe Quintarelli
“The wines of Quintarelli are completely different from the standardized, repetitive and boring wine commodities that you so often find among Amarones today…They are very expensive, rare and not so easy to understand. They are wines that require intelligence, experience, culture, patience and time, all elements so different from the simple, fast appreciation of wine today.” — Franco Ziliani, Italian wine journalist.
Giuseppe Quintarelli, the “Master of the Veneto,” established a fantastic reputation as the benchmark producer in the Veneto in the northeast of Italy. He was famous for his Amarones, Recioto Valpolicellas and the ‘cult’ wine Alzero, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. He also was the inspiration for and instructor of many well-known producers in the region, including Romano Dal Forno. When he passed away at the age of 84 in 2012, he left behind a sixty-year legacy as the stalwart supporter of a traditional and conscientious approach to winemaking. His daughter Fiorenza, his son-in-law Giampaolo, and his grandsons Francesco and Lorenzo, now follow in his footsteps as the managers of the estate.
Giuseppe’s father, Silvio, was a sharecropper of vineyards in the Veneto. He first exported his wines to the US in 1900. After the First World War, Silvio purchased vineyard land and established his own winemaking estate in the hills surrounding the village of Negrar in the Veneto. Guiseppe began working with his father on the estate in the 1950s. He was constantly attempting to improve the viticultural and vinicultural practices to improve the wines. He also enlarged the vineyard holdings to the now 27 acres of land. Today, the estate is managed by Giuseppe’s eldest daughter, Fiorenza, and her husband Giampaolo Grigoli. Their children, Francesco and Lorenzo, who worked under their grandfather, will take over production when their parents retire.
Giuseppe’s attention to detail and quality in the vineyard and during the long process of winemaking are what set him apart. He encouraged drastically small yields and trained the vines in the traditional Pergola Veronese system. This encourages the vines to form a tall, protective canopy to keep the grapes from becoming damaged due to the hot sun. Shielding the grapes helps them retain acidity to produce a balanced wine. Multiple passes are made through the vineyards as each berry is selected for a specific wine. Most of the grapes are dried on traditional rush mats, in the appassimento method, before pressing. The wines are made in limited production; the estate produces 60,000 bottles a year on average. They are usually released 10 years after harvest, though they can age for decades longer.
The Amarone matures over 7-8 years in large Slavonian casks carved with elaborate Catholic imagery. It is only made in the best vintages, about two to three times a decade. During lesser vintages, the wines are bottled under the Rosso del Bepi name (Bepi was Giuseppe’s nickname). His Amarones are powerful yet retain a vibrant freshness and lush fruit character. The Valpolicellas are intense with structure, finesse and great aging potential. The 2004 Amarone and the 2005 Valpolicella are the most recent releases of these wines. Due to the limited production levels, the exacting production methods requiring almost a decade before release, and the high demand for these wines, they are often difficult to find.
Giuseppe Quintarelli Wines Arriving April 30th
Giuseppe Quintarelli Bianco Secco Ca’ del Merlo Veneto IGT 2013 750ML ($49.95) $37 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $44
Giuseppe Quintarelli Ca del Merlo Veneto IGT 2005 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $91
Giuseppe Quintarelli ‘Alzero’ Cabernet Veneto IGT 2005 750ML ($449.95) $359 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $439
Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 1997 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “There is so much to like about the 1997 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico. A juicy, expressive wine, the Recioto is especially forward and warm in this vintage. An exotic mélange of plums, mocha, espresso, spices and savory herbs captivates the intellectual and hedonistic senses in a wine of pure pleasure. Still a baby, the 1997 is developing gradually and beautifully. Readers lucky enough to own this elixir are in for a real treat.” AG
Giuseppe Quintarelli Wines Available Here Now
Giuseppe Quintarelli Primofiore Veneto IGT 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 4 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Primofiore Veneto IGT 2010 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 2 magnums available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2001 750ML ($399.95) $349 special, 2 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2001 375ML ($199.95) $159 special, 5 half-bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2001 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is one of the more vintages of the Recioto, although in subsequent tastings the wine has begun to blossom more fully. Silky, layered and exceptionally polished on the palate, the 2001 flows with the essence of dark cherry, plum, licorice, dried flowers, savory herbs, menthol and spices. This is a relatively approachable vintage for the Recioto, with less explosiveness and lower residual sugar than some previous editions, but tons of balance and pure harmony. Simply put, there is nothing like a Quintarelli Recioto.”
Giuseppe Quintarelli Ca del Merlo Veneto IGT 2004 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 5 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 14 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005 1.5L ($249.95) $219 special, 1 magnum available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005 3L ($599.95) $499 special, 1 double-magnum available
Giuseppe Quintarelli ‘Amabile del Cere’ Passito Bianco Veneto IGT 2003 375ML ($279.95) $219 special, 3 half-bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2003 Amabile del Cere is a surprising wine. There is plenty of depth and power, but not any sense of heaviness, despite the torrid vintage. Burnt sugar, orange peel, cinnamon, dried figs and spices blossom in the glass as this gorgeous wine shows off its inimitable personality. This is another marvelous showing from Giuseppe Quintarelli. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023.” WA
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Springtime Sales Ending Soon
Our Spring Sale Ends April 30th
Don’t miss out on these great deals and others!
WASHINGTON
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 750ML ($299.95) Was $259, Now $235, 2 bottles available
Robert Parker 98 points “Almost as good as the 2003, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc that spent 22 months in 100% new French oak. Its youthful purple/ruby color is followed by gorgeously complex and intense aromas of wild herbs, exotic spices, caramelized beef, licorice and layers of sweet black fruits and creamy black cherry-like nuances. Full-bodied, rich and incredibly youthful, it opens up beautifully in the glass and is a total thrill ride of a Washington State Cabernet. I’d enjoy bottles over the coming decade, but it will hold longer. Drink now-2027. ”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $277
CALIFORNIA
Provenance Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 2011 750ML ($49.95) Was $39, Now $29, 17 bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $38
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Bousselots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $69, 19 bottles available
Burghound 89-91 points “The well-layered mélange of red currant, blue berry and wet stone nuances marries seamlessly into slightly earthy, precise and energetic flavors that possess a firm but not hard tannic spine, all wrapped in a delicious and saline-infused finish. This is also quite understated yet stylish and I very much like the purity of expression.” BH
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $84.99
FRANCE-RHONE
Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Deus ex Machina 2006 ($279.95) Was $249 Now $199, 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 99 points “The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Deus ex Machina was flirting with perfection on this go around, and was open, layered and sexy. Possessing rock-star kirsch, blackberry liqueur, incense, spice, garrigue and ground pepper, it’s a full-bodied, incredibly textured 2006 that has thrilling concentration, sweet tannin and a finish this just keeps going. If forced to pick one of these bottles for current drinking, it’s showing spectacularly.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $237
ITALY-PIEDMONT
Cantina del Pino Albesani, Barbaresco DOCG 2009 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $41.90, 14 bottles available
Wine Spectator 93 points “The picture of harmony, this red exudes cherry and floral aromas, with plenty of berry, tobacco and balsamic flavors. Balanced and firm, with a lingering aftertaste of spice and mineral. Accessible now, yet will improve. Best from 2014 through 2025″ WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $48.76
ITALY-TUSCANY
Isole e Olena Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2003 375ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $39, 24+ bottles available
“High-toned nose, rich in dried fruit, marmalade and salted nut aromas. Utterly delicious; intense and crammed with flavour – raisins, figs, orange peel – but relatively light on its feet with cracking freshness.”–Decanter Magazine
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
ITALY-OTHER
Fattoria Galardi Terra di Lavoro Roccamonfina IGT 2006 ($149.95) Was $91.90, Now $79, 22 bottles available
Wine Advocate 97 points “Once again I am at a loss to capture the sheer beauty of Terra di Lavoro. The 2006 is a remarkably elegant and pure vintage of this wine, where layers of flowers, violets, graphite, tar, smoke and black cherries continually flow from the glass in a dazzling, virtuosic display if power and finesse that is stunning. The wine remains incredibly fresh and primary, with superb detail, especially considering its sheer size. Today the 2006 Terra di Lavoro comes across as suprisingly accessible, but long-time connoisseurs know better; there is plenty of structure underneath. Readers are advised to taste this wine within the next few months and then forget about it for a minimum of several years. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2036.”WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $85
GERMANY
Weingut Eugen Muller Forster Kirchenstuck Riesling Auslese 2012 500ML ($34.95) Was $27, Now $21.90, 24+ 500ML-bottles available
Terry Theise “Every year for the last fifteen or more, this wine has been a masterpiece, and I can think of few if any parallels in the wine world- or in my wine world- of such sustained stellar performance year after year. 2011 is and remains a masterpiece of the exotic flowery style, “a city made of cherry blossom” as I wrote last year. Bearing in mind that these wines are never very sweet, this one is more typical for the “Auslese” idiom. The 2012, though, is a swollen subterranean wave of mineral. You start at OMG and end with WTF, because even in the context of so many great years this is singular and amazing. Fantastically salty and cherry-blossomy, with obdurate length and deeply embedded mineral.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average is $41
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