In This Newsletter:
Sylvain Pataille
New Week – New Arrivals
Trending Rosé
Paitin Barbaresco
Giacomo Conterno Barolo
New Arrival Featurette:
Sylvain Pataille
New Week – New Arrivals
Sylvain Pataille
New Week – New Arrivals
Trending Rosé
Paitin Barbaresco
Giacomo Conterno Barolo
New Arrival Featurette:
Sylvain Pataille
One of our favorite producers in the area is Sylvain Pataille. Working with nearly 40 acres of vines that are all certified organic, these are impressive, soulful wines.
“Consulting enologist Sylvain Pataille owns this 15-hectare Marsannay domaine, where he produces brilliant wines that number among the Côte d’Or’s finest values. Whole-cluster vinification, long macerations, low sulfur and protracted élevage are the rudiments of the approach.” -William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Just Arrived Reds from Sylvain Pataille:
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Rouge 2022 750ml $44.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous “The 2022 Bourgogne Rouge has a delineated and attractive bouquet, a little backward initially but opening with brambly red fruit and forest floor scents. The palate has a real “crunch” to it, more of a textural Pinot than one with obvious fruit flavors. Delicious.”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay 2022 750ml $59.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay 2022 1.5L $119 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 88-90 points “The 2022 Marsannay Rouge is a mixture of Domaine and négoce wines (from Pataille’s father). Initially, it is a little timid, but it opens nicely with aeration, bringing flinty black fruit with the 80% whole bunches imparting a light pepperiness. The palate is medium-bodied with granular tannins, fresh and vibrant, finishing with a touch of black olive.”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Rouge Le Chapitre 2022 750ml $99 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Decanter 95 points “The 2022 vintage of Pataille’s Marsannay Le Chapitre reveals much riper fruit than the 2021, with an intense concentration of black plum and cherry fruit touched with hints of mint, earth, smoke, and fresh saddle leather. The texture is dense and very tannic, with impressive length. There is a bit of reduction at this point, but it is likely to resolve before release. This wine is one to wait for – open in three to five years and age it over the next 20. (Drink between 2032-2065).”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay L’Ancestrale 2022 750ml $219 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Decanter 96 points “This thrilling wine is deeply complex without any heaviness at all. The initial attack begins with seductive aromas of ripe cassis and mulberry fruit and hints of smoke, earth, spice, and mint. The texture is approachable and supple, yet the finish is long and refined. The grapes come from a collection of Pataille’s favourite parcels, including 90-year-old vines in the Clos de Roy and others in En Clémengeot and Les Ouzeloy, all of them left unhedged in a v-shaped goblet form (tressé) and worked by horse, farmed organically with biodynamic methods to make this spectacular wine. (Drink between 2032-2075).”
“Consulting enologist Sylvain Pataille owns this 15-hectare Marsannay domaine, where he produces brilliant wines that number among the Côte d’Or’s finest values. Whole-cluster vinification, long macerations, low sulfur and protracted élevage are the rudiments of the approach.” -William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Just Arrived Reds from Sylvain Pataille:
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Rouge 2022 750ml $44.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous “The 2022 Bourgogne Rouge has a delineated and attractive bouquet, a little backward initially but opening with brambly red fruit and forest floor scents. The palate has a real “crunch” to it, more of a textural Pinot than one with obvious fruit flavors. Delicious.”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay 2022 750ml $59.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay 2022 1.5L $119 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 88-90 points “The 2022 Marsannay Rouge is a mixture of Domaine and négoce wines (from Pataille’s father). Initially, it is a little timid, but it opens nicely with aeration, bringing flinty black fruit with the 80% whole bunches imparting a light pepperiness. The palate is medium-bodied with granular tannins, fresh and vibrant, finishing with a touch of black olive.”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Rouge Le Chapitre 2022 750ml $99 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Decanter 95 points “The 2022 vintage of Pataille’s Marsannay Le Chapitre reveals much riper fruit than the 2021, with an intense concentration of black plum and cherry fruit touched with hints of mint, earth, smoke, and fresh saddle leather. The texture is dense and very tannic, with impressive length. There is a bit of reduction at this point, but it is likely to resolve before release. This wine is one to wait for – open in three to five years and age it over the next 20. (Drink between 2032-2065).”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay L’Ancestrale 2022 750ml $219 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Decanter 96 points “This thrilling wine is deeply complex without any heaviness at all. The initial attack begins with seductive aromas of ripe cassis and mulberry fruit and hints of smoke, earth, spice, and mint. The texture is approachable and supple, yet the finish is long and refined. The grapes come from a collection of Pataille’s favourite parcels, including 90-year-old vines in the Clos de Roy and others in En Clémengeot and Les Ouzeloy, all of them left unhedged in a v-shaped goblet form (tressé) and worked by horse, farmed organically with biodynamic methods to make this spectacular wine. (Drink between 2032-2075).”
New Week – New Arrivals
Rosé
Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina, Spain 2024 750ml $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Producer Note “Visual: pale pink with shades of fuchsia, his bright tone has a fine and elegant bubbles. Smelling: fine and sophisticated fragrance with notes of citrus and menthol. To taste: harmonious in the mouth, freshness reminiscent of strawberry sour caramel, and cheerful by their bubbles.”
Benanti Etna Rosato, Sicily 2024 750ml $24 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Benanti Rosato is made from a select blend of grapes sourced from vineyards located on the northern, south-eastern, and south-western slopes of Mount Etna. The unique terroir of these volcanic slopes imparts the wine with a vibrant character, marked by crisp acidity and delicate minerality. The wine displays a beautiful balance of fresh red fruit flavors and subtle floral notes, offering a refreshing and elegant expression of Etna’s diverse landscapes. A Rosato that is both vibrant and singular capturing the essence of the mountains.”
Famille Perrin Ventoux ‘La Vieille Ferme’ Rosé, Rhône 2024 750ml $11.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Wine Review Online 89 points “An interesting blend of red (Grenache, Cinsault) and white (Rolle, also known as Vermentino in Italy) grapes results in a softer in texture but well-structured pink wine that has fluffy cotton candy flavors with a firm finish.”
Sivilli Wine Co. Poubelle Rosé, Willamette Valley 2024 750ml $16.50 special, 31 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: This is a less austere interpretation of Pinot Noir Rosé than we often see in the Willamette. There is a welcoming whiff of fresh strawberry on the nose, with a soft (but nicely balanced) mouth feel, stone-fruit notes on the palette, and tart raspberry on the finish. This is the bargain Rosé of the summer!
Oregon
Evesham Wood La Grive Bleue Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2023 750ml $39 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “A voluminous, textural delight. As the vines near 30 years old, La Grive Bleue picks up classic Le Puits Sec notes of plum and sage. But its different clones of Pinot Noir continue to sing a singular voice, one that adds delectable black cherries that glide on a feel of fine cashmere. 2023 was a strong vintage for the quality and character of La Grive Bleue; sadly, yields were not strong and only two barrels (50 cases) were made.”
Purple Hands Haakon Lenai Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2022 750ml $66 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “A youthful ruby red hue, the 2022 Pinot Noir Haakon/Lenai Vineyard comes from 27-year-old vines in the main estate vineyard. A youthful bright magenta/ruby color, it offers darker berried fruit notes of wild black raspberries, layered spice, toasted cedar, umami, and licorice, with some red-fruited, high-toned lift shining through. There is real crystalline depth to this wine as well as more purity and clarity, and it has bright, ripe acidity, mouthwatering freshness, and a great finish. Its ripe tannins are very well-framed, and it has a long finish. Much more purity and clarity here. Drink 2024-2044. This is by far the best wine in the Purple Hands lineup.”
France – Loire
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Sur Lie ‘La Pepie’, Loire 2023 750ml $18 special, 36 bottles in stock now
John Gilman-A View From the Cellar 92 points “The Muscadet ‘la Pépie’ from Domaine de la Pépière is the first example from this appellation that I have tasted from the 2023 vintage and fully underscores just how favored Muscadet was in this difficult growing season. The vibrant bouquet hops from the glass in a complex combination of green apple, lime, lovely minerality, briny notes of ocean breeze and a topnote of dried flowers. On the palate the wine is zesty, precise and full-bodied, with an excellent core of fruit, lovely mineral drive and cut, a fine spine of acidity and lovely precision on the long, impeccably balanced and complex finish. This is excellent Muscadet and a stunning value! 2024- 2045.”
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Clisson Cru, Loire 2022 750ml $31.90 special, 32 bottles in stock now
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Clisson Cru, Loire 2022 1.5L $69 special, 4 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “100% Melon de Bourgogne. The Clisson bottling comes from a 50-100-year-old section of vines in Pepière’s core vineyard near the winery in the cru of Clisson. Besides vine age, the distinguishing factor is the granite de Clisson, a very hard, compact form of granite. The very poor top soils are decomposed granite de Clisson with very little clay and a lot of quartz and mica over hard mother rock of granite de Clisson. The farming is certified-biodynamic. The hand-harvested bunches are direct-pressed and the juice settled naturally overnight. It is then fermented spontaneously with natural yeasts and aged on its lees for a minimum of 2 years in underground vats. The wine is bottled without fining or filtering.”
Nicolas Joly Clos de la Coulée de Serrant, Loire 2021 750ml $141.90 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW-Vinous 95 points “The 2021 Clos de la Coulée de Serrant is a dry, floral Chenin Blanc produced from late-picked grapes, done in 3 passes with around 1/10th affected by botrytis. Grown biodynamically and vinified with minimal intervention, the resulting wine is intriguing and idiosyncratic. With a rich golden color, there’s a sensation of sweetness allied with honeyed fruit and fullness of high alcohol. Low yields are reflected in the intense concentration. It is a serious, structured style with well-handled phenolics providing grip and contributing to its length, while the season’s bright acidity ensures freshness and tension. It is a much cleaner, less oxidative style in 2021, and for that, you have to be thankful. This will be a long-lived wine that would need decanting.”
France – Rhône
Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage La Guiraude 2022 750ml $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “A remarkable Crozes-Hermitage with drive, structure and plenty of texture. The nose reveals notes of cassis, dark cherries, currants, violets and warm spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Chalky and focused, with a juicy core of cherries mingling with the violets. Lively and precise with a serious, compact finish at this stage. Try after 2026.”
France – Jura
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois ‘Rose Massale’ Chardonnay 2023 750ml $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Rouge DD Sans Soufre 2023 750ml $41.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Poulsard Vieilles Vignes 2023 750ml $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Trousseau Singulier 2023 750ml $51.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutiérrez-Wine Advocate 93-94 points “In 2023, the Tissot’s got their largest crop ever. The wines are fresher and with more fluidity than in 2022. A preview of the 2023 Trousseau Singulier had a lifted nose, expressive and floral with hints of bubble gum. It felt a little different, as it had had three weeks of carbonic maceration. They have only produced a handful of carbonic maceration reds and are experimenting a little more. It seems to polish the varieties’ tannins. 2023 is a cool year for reds, bright and vibrant with tension, like 2016.”
France – Corsica
Francois Labet Pinot Noir, IGP Ile de Beaute 2020 750ml $14 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Francois Labet Pinot Noir, IGP Ile de Beaute 2021 750ml $18 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Produced by François Labet, owner of Chateau de La Tour and Domaine Pierre Labet, this vibrant, versatile Mediterranean “Burgundy” has personality and value. Francois Labet has a holiday house in Corsica and over the years he fell in love with the rocky, high-altitude terroir. The vineyard is situated 20 Miles Northwest of Porto Vecchio on the East Coast in the Southern region of Corsica, the French Island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located on the geological fault line separating Southern Corsica and Upper Corsica – each composed of soil schist and granite – this vineyard of 35 Acres is composed of metamorphic rocks foothills. It enjoys exceptional sunshine and a climate tempered by the proximity of these and the mountain barrier (of 1,800 Feet of altitude).”
Italy – Tuscany
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 2021 750ml $245 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 2021 1.5L $625 special, 1 magnum in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 98+ points “The 2021 Le Pergole Torte is a real stunner. Rich, deep and beautifully layered in the glass, the 2021 is captivating from the very first taste. In bottle, this is quite a bit more reticent than it was as a barrel sample, which, in my view, is a positive. Even so, readers should be prepared to cellar the 2021 for a number of years at a minimum.
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico DOCG 2022 750ml $28 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “A well-balanced, seductive and lively red with aromas of forest berries, red currants, warm herbs and some crushed peppercorns. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins. Juicy berry character with a lift of spices bringing energy and vitality on the palate and onto the tactile finish.”
Italy – Piedmont
Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 11 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Asili is gorgeous. It offers a beguiling mix of intense fruit and supporting structure. A wine of depth and complexity, Asili has a lot of everything. It is clearly a step or two above many of the wines in this range. Today, the 2020 comes across as a bit somber, but that may partly be a reflection of its recent bottling. There’s gorgeous depth and resonance in the Asili.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 12 bottles available
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 1.5L $189 special, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is one of the most elegant, polished wines in this range. Bright red-toned fruit, blood orange, spice, mint and cedar are beautifully lifted. The tannins are remarkably polished for a young, recently bottled Riserva. I admire its poise and elegance. This is an especially refined edition of the Montestefano. In 2020, the mix of vineyards is a bit younger than in the past, as one of the blocks of older vineyards was replanted and not used. If I could have only one of the Riservas in 2020, this would be it!”
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96+ points “Two standouts from the 2020 vintage are Montefico and Asili. The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico comes from a site that is distant from the warm air that travels through the Tanaro River Valley and is closed within an amphitheater. This is a beautiful vineyard that looks toward the village of Neive and has active limestone soils. The wine is especially compact in texture and has a distinctly herbal note, with dried rosemary and lavender, that gives it a Mediterranean or botanical feel. The palate delivers a brief moment of softness, but otherwise the wine is structured and rich.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $85 special, 6 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is quite powerful and ample but not fully integrated as of yet. This vineyard site is located in a warm growing area, and you do feel the heat of the vintage in terms of the ripeness of the bouquet and the softness of the tannins. This wine paints with broad brush strokes, offering blackberry, plum and spice. It needs another year or two to find better focus.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a massive, packed wine. Graphite, crushed rocks, dried herbs and cedar open first. Ovello tends to produce a more linear style of Barbaresco, and that is very much the case here as well. However, the 2020 also possesses notable depth and layers in the mid-palate. It’s a gorgeous wine in the making.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pajè, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Pajè is a classic wine from this site. Deeply spiced and balsamic notes meld into a core of dark, sepia-toned Nebbiolo fruit. A Barbaresco of real presence and substance, the Pajè makes itself felt. It’s one of my early dark horse favorites in this range from Produttori del Barbaresco.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $85 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is aromatic, effusive and quite charming. Crushed flowers, spice, leather, tobacco and cedar lend notable inner sweetness. Medium in body and gracious, the Pora is pretty approachable today, although it will be better with a few years in bottle. This is a very beautiful, vivid Pora and a fine introduction to the Riservas.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabajà, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 11 bottles available
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabajà, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 1.5L $199 special, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is another stellar wine in this range. Dark and explosive, the 2021 possesses notable richness to match its dark, brooding personality. Black cherry, plum, leather, cloves, menthol, licorice and gravel explode onto the palate. The 2020 will require a measure of patience, but it has a ton of potential.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo comes from an area that is further removed from the Tanaro River and has southwestern exposures. It shows a typical profile for Nebbiolo with rich fruit, a velvety mouthfeel and textural volume that is delivered with ample blackberry, blackcurrant and spice. The character of this wine is generous and rich. There is plenty of meat on these bones.”
Ameztoi Rubentis Rosado, Getariako Txakolina, Spain 2024 750ml $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Producer Note “Visual: pale pink with shades of fuchsia, his bright tone has a fine and elegant bubbles. Smelling: fine and sophisticated fragrance with notes of citrus and menthol. To taste: harmonious in the mouth, freshness reminiscent of strawberry sour caramel, and cheerful by their bubbles.”
Benanti Etna Rosato, Sicily 2024 750ml $24 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Benanti Rosato is made from a select blend of grapes sourced from vineyards located on the northern, south-eastern, and south-western slopes of Mount Etna. The unique terroir of these volcanic slopes imparts the wine with a vibrant character, marked by crisp acidity and delicate minerality. The wine displays a beautiful balance of fresh red fruit flavors and subtle floral notes, offering a refreshing and elegant expression of Etna’s diverse landscapes. A Rosato that is both vibrant and singular capturing the essence of the mountains.”
Famille Perrin Ventoux ‘La Vieille Ferme’ Rosé, Rhône 2024 750ml $11.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Wine Review Online 89 points “An interesting blend of red (Grenache, Cinsault) and white (Rolle, also known as Vermentino in Italy) grapes results in a softer in texture but well-structured pink wine that has fluffy cotton candy flavors with a firm finish.”
Sivilli Wine Co. Poubelle Rosé, Willamette Valley 2024 750ml $16.50 special, 31 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: This is a less austere interpretation of Pinot Noir Rosé than we often see in the Willamette. There is a welcoming whiff of fresh strawberry on the nose, with a soft (but nicely balanced) mouth feel, stone-fruit notes on the palette, and tart raspberry on the finish. This is the bargain Rosé of the summer!
Oregon
Evesham Wood La Grive Bleue Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2023 750ml $39 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “A voluminous, textural delight. As the vines near 30 years old, La Grive Bleue picks up classic Le Puits Sec notes of plum and sage. But its different clones of Pinot Noir continue to sing a singular voice, one that adds delectable black cherries that glide on a feel of fine cashmere. 2023 was a strong vintage for the quality and character of La Grive Bleue; sadly, yields were not strong and only two barrels (50 cases) were made.”
Purple Hands Haakon Lenai Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2022 750ml $66 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “A youthful ruby red hue, the 2022 Pinot Noir Haakon/Lenai Vineyard comes from 27-year-old vines in the main estate vineyard. A youthful bright magenta/ruby color, it offers darker berried fruit notes of wild black raspberries, layered spice, toasted cedar, umami, and licorice, with some red-fruited, high-toned lift shining through. There is real crystalline depth to this wine as well as more purity and clarity, and it has bright, ripe acidity, mouthwatering freshness, and a great finish. Its ripe tannins are very well-framed, and it has a long finish. Much more purity and clarity here. Drink 2024-2044. This is by far the best wine in the Purple Hands lineup.”
France – Loire
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Sur Lie ‘La Pepie’, Loire 2023 750ml $18 special, 36 bottles in stock now
John Gilman-A View From the Cellar 92 points “The Muscadet ‘la Pépie’ from Domaine de la Pépière is the first example from this appellation that I have tasted from the 2023 vintage and fully underscores just how favored Muscadet was in this difficult growing season. The vibrant bouquet hops from the glass in a complex combination of green apple, lime, lovely minerality, briny notes of ocean breeze and a topnote of dried flowers. On the palate the wine is zesty, precise and full-bodied, with an excellent core of fruit, lovely mineral drive and cut, a fine spine of acidity and lovely precision on the long, impeccably balanced and complex finish. This is excellent Muscadet and a stunning value! 2024- 2045.”
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Clisson Cru, Loire 2022 750ml $31.90 special, 32 bottles in stock now
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Clisson Cru, Loire 2022 1.5L $69 special, 4 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “100% Melon de Bourgogne. The Clisson bottling comes from a 50-100-year-old section of vines in Pepière’s core vineyard near the winery in the cru of Clisson. Besides vine age, the distinguishing factor is the granite de Clisson, a very hard, compact form of granite. The very poor top soils are decomposed granite de Clisson with very little clay and a lot of quartz and mica over hard mother rock of granite de Clisson. The farming is certified-biodynamic. The hand-harvested bunches are direct-pressed and the juice settled naturally overnight. It is then fermented spontaneously with natural yeasts and aged on its lees for a minimum of 2 years in underground vats. The wine is bottled without fining or filtering.”
Nicolas Joly Clos de la Coulée de Serrant, Loire 2021 750ml $141.90 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW-Vinous 95 points “The 2021 Clos de la Coulée de Serrant is a dry, floral Chenin Blanc produced from late-picked grapes, done in 3 passes with around 1/10th affected by botrytis. Grown biodynamically and vinified with minimal intervention, the resulting wine is intriguing and idiosyncratic. With a rich golden color, there’s a sensation of sweetness allied with honeyed fruit and fullness of high alcohol. Low yields are reflected in the intense concentration. It is a serious, structured style with well-handled phenolics providing grip and contributing to its length, while the season’s bright acidity ensures freshness and tension. It is a much cleaner, less oxidative style in 2021, and for that, you have to be thankful. This will be a long-lived wine that would need decanting.”
France – Rhône
Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage La Guiraude 2022 750ml $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “A remarkable Crozes-Hermitage with drive, structure and plenty of texture. The nose reveals notes of cassis, dark cherries, currants, violets and warm spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Chalky and focused, with a juicy core of cherries mingling with the violets. Lively and precise with a serious, compact finish at this stage. Try after 2026.”
France – Jura
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois ‘Rose Massale’ Chardonnay 2023 750ml $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Rouge DD Sans Soufre 2023 750ml $41.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Poulsard Vieilles Vignes 2023 750ml $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Trousseau Singulier 2023 750ml $51.90 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutiérrez-Wine Advocate 93-94 points “In 2023, the Tissot’s got their largest crop ever. The wines are fresher and with more fluidity than in 2022. A preview of the 2023 Trousseau Singulier had a lifted nose, expressive and floral with hints of bubble gum. It felt a little different, as it had had three weeks of carbonic maceration. They have only produced a handful of carbonic maceration reds and are experimenting a little more. It seems to polish the varieties’ tannins. 2023 is a cool year for reds, bright and vibrant with tension, like 2016.”
France – Corsica
Francois Labet Pinot Noir, IGP Ile de Beaute 2020 750ml $14 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Francois Labet Pinot Noir, IGP Ile de Beaute 2021 750ml $18 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Produced by François Labet, owner of Chateau de La Tour and Domaine Pierre Labet, this vibrant, versatile Mediterranean “Burgundy” has personality and value. Francois Labet has a holiday house in Corsica and over the years he fell in love with the rocky, high-altitude terroir. The vineyard is situated 20 Miles Northwest of Porto Vecchio on the East Coast in the Southern region of Corsica, the French Island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located on the geological fault line separating Southern Corsica and Upper Corsica – each composed of soil schist and granite – this vineyard of 35 Acres is composed of metamorphic rocks foothills. It enjoys exceptional sunshine and a climate tempered by the proximity of these and the mountain barrier (of 1,800 Feet of altitude).”
Italy – Tuscany
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 2021 750ml $245 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 2021 1.5L $625 special, 1 magnum in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 98+ points “The 2021 Le Pergole Torte is a real stunner. Rich, deep and beautifully layered in the glass, the 2021 is captivating from the very first taste. In bottle, this is quite a bit more reticent than it was as a barrel sample, which, in my view, is a positive. Even so, readers should be prepared to cellar the 2021 for a number of years at a minimum.
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico DOCG 2022 750ml $28 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “A well-balanced, seductive and lively red with aromas of forest berries, red currants, warm herbs and some crushed peppercorns. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins. Juicy berry character with a lift of spices bringing energy and vitality on the palate and onto the tactile finish.”
Italy – Piedmont
Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 11 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Asili is gorgeous. It offers a beguiling mix of intense fruit and supporting structure. A wine of depth and complexity, Asili has a lot of everything. It is clearly a step or two above many of the wines in this range. Today, the 2020 comes across as a bit somber, but that may partly be a reflection of its recent bottling. There’s gorgeous depth and resonance in the Asili.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 12 bottles available
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 1.5L $189 special, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is one of the most elegant, polished wines in this range. Bright red-toned fruit, blood orange, spice, mint and cedar are beautifully lifted. The tannins are remarkably polished for a young, recently bottled Riserva. I admire its poise and elegance. This is an especially refined edition of the Montestefano. In 2020, the mix of vineyards is a bit younger than in the past, as one of the blocks of older vineyards was replanted and not used. If I could have only one of the Riservas in 2020, this would be it!”
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96+ points “Two standouts from the 2020 vintage are Montefico and Asili. The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico comes from a site that is distant from the warm air that travels through the Tanaro River Valley and is closed within an amphitheater. This is a beautiful vineyard that looks toward the village of Neive and has active limestone soils. The wine is especially compact in texture and has a distinctly herbal note, with dried rosemary and lavender, that gives it a Mediterranean or botanical feel. The palate delivers a brief moment of softness, but otherwise the wine is structured and rich.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $85 special, 6 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is quite powerful and ample but not fully integrated as of yet. This vineyard site is located in a warm growing area, and you do feel the heat of the vintage in terms of the ripeness of the bouquet and the softness of the tannins. This wine paints with broad brush strokes, offering blackberry, plum and spice. It needs another year or two to find better focus.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a massive, packed wine. Graphite, crushed rocks, dried herbs and cedar open first. Ovello tends to produce a more linear style of Barbaresco, and that is very much the case here as well. However, the 2020 also possesses notable depth and layers in the mid-palate. It’s a gorgeous wine in the making.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pajè, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Pajè is a classic wine from this site. Deeply spiced and balsamic notes meld into a core of dark, sepia-toned Nebbiolo fruit. A Barbaresco of real presence and substance, the Pajè makes itself felt. It’s one of my early dark horse favorites in this range from Produttori del Barbaresco.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $85 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is aromatic, effusive and quite charming. Crushed flowers, spice, leather, tobacco and cedar lend notable inner sweetness. Medium in body and gracious, the Pora is pretty approachable today, although it will be better with a few years in bottle. This is a very beautiful, vivid Pora and a fine introduction to the Riservas.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabajà, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 11 bottles available
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabajà, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 1.5L $199 special, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97 points “The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is another stellar wine in this range. Dark and explosive, the 2021 possesses notable richness to match its dark, brooding personality. Black cherry, plum, leather, cloves, menthol, licorice and gravel explode onto the palate. The 2020 will require a measure of patience, but it has a ton of potential.”
Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020 750ml $89 special, 6 bottles available
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo comes from an area that is further removed from the Tanaro River and has southwestern exposures. It shows a typical profile for Nebbiolo with rich fruit, a velvety mouthfeel and textural volume that is delivered with ample blackberry, blackcurrant and spice. The character of this wine is generous and rich. There is plenty of meat on these bones.”
Trending Rosé
The heat dome might have passed (well, this one…), but summer is here and now is the best time to sip the most flexible style of wine: rosé. Browse a list of some of your favorites below!
In Stock Now:
Arnot-Roberts Rose, California 2024 750ml $26 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Winemaker’s Note “We began making Rosé from Touriga Nacional in 2010. We were compelled by the grape’s deep color, brilliant acidity and aromatic complexity even at low sugar content. Touriga is a late-ripening Portuguese variety that needs some heat to mature, and we have sought out vineyards suited to this hearty variety.”
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose, Provence 2024 750ml $29.50 special, 25 bottles in stock now
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose, Provence 2024 1.5L $64.50 special, 3 magnums in stock now
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose, Provence 2024 3L $128 special, 3 three-liters in stock now
Importer Note “No estate expresses the salt-kissed limestone-driven terroir of the idyllic Provençal seaside village of Cassis like Domaine du Bagnol, and the current generation, Sébastien Genovesi, crafts a rosé of scintillating energy, chiseled calcareous musculature, and gleaming red fruits. Comprising 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, and 20% Mourvèdre, Bagnol’s Cassis Rosé is pressed directly and rapidly (in under two hours) to extract as little color as possible, and the bottled wine (certified organic) contains only 20 milligrams per liter of total sulfur—a factor which contributes to its gorgeous purity of texture and intense evocation of limestone soil.”
Bow & Arrow Rosé of Gamay Noir, Willamette Valley 2024 750ml $21.90 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “This year’s rosé is a short maceration of Gamay from the organically farmed Rooker Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Natural as can be! It’s a stainless steel fermented study on wet rocks and perhaps a border skirmish between watemelon Jolly Ranchers and Grapefruit Jarritos. Unyeasted, unfiltered, unfined and unmanipulated. Only made in years that lend themselves to making quality rose. Our smallest production.”
Domaine de Fenouillet Ventoux Rosé, Rhône 2024 750ml $16.50 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “This rosé is vinified partially by direct press and partially by ‘saignée’, the juice is naturally clarified after a cold ‘débourbage’ of 24 hours, the wine ferments at temperature that never exceeds 16 degrees Celsius and then it is aged on the fine lees for four to six months before bottling. It is a blend of 50% Cinsault, 40% Grenache and 10% Syrah, all of which is planted to soils of clay, limestone and silex. Production is limited: we import approximately 6,000 bottles per annum for the US market.”
Le Galantin Bandol Rosé, Provence 2024 750ml $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Around 50% Mourvèdre, 25% Cinsault and 25% Grenache, from vines planted on southwest facing hillsides, with clay/limestone soil. The grapes are hand-harvested, after which the bunches are cooled down to 50C for a two day cold soak in order to extract fruit, color and aromatics. The juice is then racked off and the grapes are pressed to stainless steel tanks. 10% of the wine is saignée, the rest come from grapes treated as for making white wine.”
G.D. Vajra Rosabella Rosato, Piedmont 2024 750ml $18 special, 31 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Rosabella is a rosé de saignée, produced with the lighted touch in order to preserve the lightness and fragrance of our grapes. First produced between 2004 and 2007, Rosabella is a focus on Nebbiolo, with small amounts of Barbera and Dolcetto.”
Goodfellow Family Cellars Rosé of Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $18 special, 33 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Peach blossoms, wild strawberries, star fruit, green melon, light florals. This is very pretty in the nose, light bodied with plenty of flavor, and brightly refreshing to drink. The bottle disappears quickly. Perfect for sunny days watching the hummingbirds, grilling chicken, and sushi. 82% direct press from the blanc de noir program and 18% saignee from100% whole cluster ferments of Whistling Ridge and Durant. 12.3% abv and 266 cases produced.”
Chateau Pradeaux Rosé, Côtes de Provence 2024 750ml $22.50 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Made from 45% Cinsault and 40% Mourvedre, with the balance split among Grenache and Carignan, the pale-iron-colored Côtes de Provence Rose is closer to Bandol-level complexity and concentration than we have yet seen from this wine—a result of the 2017 vintage’s atypical concentration. A core of sappy, glycerol red-cherry fruit anchors a firm, punchy minerality, and the finish is remarkably persistent. The vineyards that comprise this wine were, in fact, classified as Bandol AOC as recently as 2012, and this wine clearly distinguishes itself from among the vast ocean of Côtes de Provence rose by virtue of its terroir’s unique pedigree.”
Jean-Maurice Raffault Chinon Rosé, Loire 2023 750ml $19 special, 22 bottles in stock now
VOS Selections Importer Note “J-M Raffault’s Chinon Rosé is considered the finest of the Loire Valley. It is made from 100% certified organic Cabernet Franc grapes planted on alluvial sand and gravel soils of the former Loire river bed. Raffault picks the fruit dedicated to the Rosé at the start of his harvest period, when it typically has attained one degree less in sugar than that of the Chinon Les Galuches, which is picked next…The color is light and bright cherry-red (…the color of the 2023 was more intense…), the exact shade Rodolphe aimed for. Aromas and flavors of red currants, raspberry and pomegranate, citrus and cherry fruit emanate from the glass. The finish is long, fresh and succulent.”
Proprieta Sperino ‘Rosa del Rosa’ Rosato Coste della Sesia, Piedmont 2023 750ml $24 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “85% Nebbiolo / 15% Vespolina. Rosa del Rosa Rosato is mineral, fresh, and savory. A beautiful salmon color, the wine exhibits scents of rose petal and strawberry. Cantaloupe and ripe peach flavors evolve into a vivid, pink grapefruit-like citrus acidity on the midpalate. The finish is long and dry. Ripe strawberry flavors are complemented by minerality and a little pepper.”
Domaine de Triennes Rosé, IGP Var 2024 750ml $19 special, 31 bottles in stock now
“Attractive notes of creamy melon and crunchy nectarine are bound by a savory, salty beam of acidity. Lithe and pure in a delicate style. Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, Merlot and Rolle.” -Wine Spectator
In Stock Now:
Arnot-Roberts Rose, California 2024 750ml $26 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Winemaker’s Note “We began making Rosé from Touriga Nacional in 2010. We were compelled by the grape’s deep color, brilliant acidity and aromatic complexity even at low sugar content. Touriga is a late-ripening Portuguese variety that needs some heat to mature, and we have sought out vineyards suited to this hearty variety.”
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose, Provence 2024 750ml $29.50 special, 25 bottles in stock now
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose, Provence 2024 1.5L $64.50 special, 3 magnums in stock now
Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose, Provence 2024 3L $128 special, 3 three-liters in stock now
Importer Note “No estate expresses the salt-kissed limestone-driven terroir of the idyllic Provençal seaside village of Cassis like Domaine du Bagnol, and the current generation, Sébastien Genovesi, crafts a rosé of scintillating energy, chiseled calcareous musculature, and gleaming red fruits. Comprising 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, and 20% Mourvèdre, Bagnol’s Cassis Rosé is pressed directly and rapidly (in under two hours) to extract as little color as possible, and the bottled wine (certified organic) contains only 20 milligrams per liter of total sulfur—a factor which contributes to its gorgeous purity of texture and intense evocation of limestone soil.”
Bow & Arrow Rosé of Gamay Noir, Willamette Valley 2024 750ml $21.90 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “This year’s rosé is a short maceration of Gamay from the organically farmed Rooker Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Natural as can be! It’s a stainless steel fermented study on wet rocks and perhaps a border skirmish between watemelon Jolly Ranchers and Grapefruit Jarritos. Unyeasted, unfiltered, unfined and unmanipulated. Only made in years that lend themselves to making quality rose. Our smallest production.”
Domaine de Fenouillet Ventoux Rosé, Rhône 2024 750ml $16.50 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “This rosé is vinified partially by direct press and partially by ‘saignée’, the juice is naturally clarified after a cold ‘débourbage’ of 24 hours, the wine ferments at temperature that never exceeds 16 degrees Celsius and then it is aged on the fine lees for four to six months before bottling. It is a blend of 50% Cinsault, 40% Grenache and 10% Syrah, all of which is planted to soils of clay, limestone and silex. Production is limited: we import approximately 6,000 bottles per annum for the US market.”
Le Galantin Bandol Rosé, Provence 2024 750ml $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Around 50% Mourvèdre, 25% Cinsault and 25% Grenache, from vines planted on southwest facing hillsides, with clay/limestone soil. The grapes are hand-harvested, after which the bunches are cooled down to 50C for a two day cold soak in order to extract fruit, color and aromatics. The juice is then racked off and the grapes are pressed to stainless steel tanks. 10% of the wine is saignée, the rest come from grapes treated as for making white wine.”
G.D. Vajra Rosabella Rosato, Piedmont 2024 750ml $18 special, 31 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Rosabella is a rosé de saignée, produced with the lighted touch in order to preserve the lightness and fragrance of our grapes. First produced between 2004 and 2007, Rosabella is a focus on Nebbiolo, with small amounts of Barbera and Dolcetto.”
Goodfellow Family Cellars Rosé of Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $18 special, 33 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Peach blossoms, wild strawberries, star fruit, green melon, light florals. This is very pretty in the nose, light bodied with plenty of flavor, and brightly refreshing to drink. The bottle disappears quickly. Perfect for sunny days watching the hummingbirds, grilling chicken, and sushi. 82% direct press from the blanc de noir program and 18% saignee from100% whole cluster ferments of Whistling Ridge and Durant. 12.3% abv and 266 cases produced.”
Chateau Pradeaux Rosé, Côtes de Provence 2024 750ml $22.50 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Made from 45% Cinsault and 40% Mourvedre, with the balance split among Grenache and Carignan, the pale-iron-colored Côtes de Provence Rose is closer to Bandol-level complexity and concentration than we have yet seen from this wine—a result of the 2017 vintage’s atypical concentration. A core of sappy, glycerol red-cherry fruit anchors a firm, punchy minerality, and the finish is remarkably persistent. The vineyards that comprise this wine were, in fact, classified as Bandol AOC as recently as 2012, and this wine clearly distinguishes itself from among the vast ocean of Côtes de Provence rose by virtue of its terroir’s unique pedigree.”
Jean-Maurice Raffault Chinon Rosé, Loire 2023 750ml $19 special, 22 bottles in stock now
VOS Selections Importer Note “J-M Raffault’s Chinon Rosé is considered the finest of the Loire Valley. It is made from 100% certified organic Cabernet Franc grapes planted on alluvial sand and gravel soils of the former Loire river bed. Raffault picks the fruit dedicated to the Rosé at the start of his harvest period, when it typically has attained one degree less in sugar than that of the Chinon Les Galuches, which is picked next…The color is light and bright cherry-red (…the color of the 2023 was more intense…), the exact shade Rodolphe aimed for. Aromas and flavors of red currants, raspberry and pomegranate, citrus and cherry fruit emanate from the glass. The finish is long, fresh and succulent.”
Proprieta Sperino ‘Rosa del Rosa’ Rosato Coste della Sesia, Piedmont 2023 750ml $24 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “85% Nebbiolo / 15% Vespolina. Rosa del Rosa Rosato is mineral, fresh, and savory. A beautiful salmon color, the wine exhibits scents of rose petal and strawberry. Cantaloupe and ripe peach flavors evolve into a vivid, pink grapefruit-like citrus acidity on the midpalate. The finish is long and dry. Ripe strawberry flavors are complemented by minerality and a little pepper.”
Domaine de Triennes Rosé, IGP Var 2024 750ml $19 special, 31 bottles in stock now
“Attractive notes of creamy melon and crunchy nectarine are bound by a savory, salty beam of acidity. Lithe and pure in a delicate style. Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, Merlot and Rolle.” -Wine Spectator
Paitin’s wines are solid, deep, and built to last in your cellar – echoing the family’s tie to their home and spectacular holdings within the Serraboella cru. We just locked in our allocation. These land later this month.
Arriving This Month from Paitin:
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia ‘Serraboella’, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $49 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 93 points “A streak of wet earth underlines the cherry, plum and menthol flavors in this dense red. Fluid and well-balanced, with firm yet refined tannins lining the finish. An appealing mix of fruity and savory. Best from 2028 through 2045. 1,167 cases made, 300 cases imported.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia Albesani, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $57.50 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 96 points “Bright with cherry, raspberry, rose, white pepper and mineral flavors, this is both elegant and intense, with vibrant acidity and refined tannins driving it to a lengthy finish. Shows terrific balance and poise, combining elegance and power with purity. Best from 2029 through 2048.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia Basarin, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $54.50 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “There’s plenty of depth to this red in the form of cherry, strawberry, pomegranate, hibiscus, mineral and tobacco aromas and flavors. Harmonious and silky yet solidly built, with ripe, refined tannins enveloping the long finish. Best from 2028 through 2043. 250 cases made, 60 cases imported.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia Faset, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $54.50 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Exuding finesse, with expressive aromas and flavors of cherry, strawberry, currant, rose and mint, this red is complex, structured and long. Its dense foundation of tannins and lively acidity define the long, mineral-infused aftertaste. Best from 2028 through 2045. 250 cases made, 60 cases imported.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia ‘Sori Paitin’, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $66 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “A mix of plum, cherry, juniper, eucalyptus and earth flavors highlights this dense red, which borders on powerful, yet with a supple texture and vibrant acidity keeping everything well-defined and driving the extensive finish. Beautifully balanced and complex. Best from 2028 through 2046. 917 cases made, 220 cases imported.”
Arriving This Month from Paitin:
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia ‘Serraboella’, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $49 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 93 points “A streak of wet earth underlines the cherry, plum and menthol flavors in this dense red. Fluid and well-balanced, with firm yet refined tannins lining the finish. An appealing mix of fruity and savory. Best from 2028 through 2045. 1,167 cases made, 300 cases imported.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia Albesani, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $57.50 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 96 points “Bright with cherry, raspberry, rose, white pepper and mineral flavors, this is both elegant and intense, with vibrant acidity and refined tannins driving it to a lengthy finish. Shows terrific balance and poise, combining elegance and power with purity. Best from 2029 through 2048.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia Basarin, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $54.50 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “There’s plenty of depth to this red in the form of cherry, strawberry, pomegranate, hibiscus, mineral and tobacco aromas and flavors. Harmonious and silky yet solidly built, with ripe, refined tannins enveloping the long finish. Best from 2028 through 2043. 250 cases made, 60 cases imported.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia Faset, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $54.50 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “Exuding finesse, with expressive aromas and flavors of cherry, strawberry, currant, rose and mint, this red is complex, structured and long. Its dense foundation of tannins and lively acidity define the long, mineral-infused aftertaste. Best from 2028 through 2045. 250 cases made, 60 cases imported.”
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia ‘Sori Paitin’, Barbaresco DOCG 2021 750ml $66 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “A mix of plum, cherry, juniper, eucalyptus and earth flavors highlights this dense red, which borders on powerful, yet with a supple texture and vibrant acidity keeping everything well-defined and driving the extensive finish. Beautifully balanced and complex. Best from 2028 through 2046. 917 cases made, 220 cases imported.”
Shop our complete selection of Paitin wines in-stock and on the way!
Giacomo Conterno:
Barolo’s Elite Arriving in July
Giacomo Conterno wines are among the top tier of wines being produced in all of Italy. The wines are always powerful and traditional, but with an elegance and grace that seems to transcend the immediate impact of flavor and leave you searching for descriptors to capture what you’ve tasted. The way these wines have become collectable, it’s going to be ever more difficult to source them.
Arriving in July from Giacomo Conterno:
Giacomo Conterno Nebbiolo d’Alba Vigna Arione 2021 750ml $189 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The 2021 Nebbiolo d’Alba Vigna Arione is all class. Perfumed and silky on the palate, with medium-bodied structure, the 2021 embodies the virtues of elegance and class. Crushed flowers, white pepper and mint play off a core of vibrant, red-toned fruit. What a beautiful wine this is. As a reminder, the Nebbiolo d’Alba Vigna Arione emerges from a section in Arione that is just outside the Barolo appellation. Vines here were replanted after the 2015 harvest. The Nebbiolo was vinified in wood and then spent 31 months in cask, a classic Barolo élevage.”
Giacomo Conterno Arione, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $289 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Giacomo Conterno Arione, Barolo DOCG 2021 1.5L $689 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97+ points “The 2021 Barolo Arione is a wine of exquisite finesse and elegance. The bouquet alone is immediately arresting. Then again, that is such an Arione signature. Sage, rose petal, mint, orange peel and dried flowers begin to emerge over time. Nearly seamless tannins and exceptional balance add to its total allure, while strong floral and savory accents punctuate the finish.”
Giacomo Conterno Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $279 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Giacomo Conterno Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2021 1.5L $679 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2021 Barolo Cerretta is the most approachable of Conterno’s 2021 Barolos. It seems to offer a bit less overall dimension and complexity than the other Barolos and, therefore, more complete balance of its components in the early going that should allow it to start opening with a few years in bottle. There’s plenty of underlying nervy structure, and yet the Cerretta is not quite as imposing as its siblings in this range. Floral and spice overtones gradually open with a bit of aeration.”
Giacomo Conterno Francia, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $299 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Giacomo Conterno Francia, Barolo DOCG 2021 1.5L $699 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 99 points “The 2021 Barolo Francia is a vertical, explosive Barolo endowed with tons of energy. Bright acids and fine beams of tannin provide the framework for this striking young Barolo. All the elements are so well balanced. Time in the glass brings out an interplay of mineral-drenched energy, persistence and textural breadth. There’s a lot of structure, and yet the tannins feel fine-grained and finessed. I especially admire its translucent energy. Magnificent.”
Giacomo Conterno Monfortino, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml $899 pre-arrival special, 15 bottles available
Decanter 100 points “Demonstrating the meticulous precision for which the estate is known, the 2019 Monfortino is a thoroughbred. I was able to taste it on a couple of occasions during its maturation, after the blend of Francia and Arione was made. Since bottling last spring, it has retreated into itself and now just hints at black tea, truffle and dark wet earth. The tannins are still rigid and stubborn, though very sophisticated and inextricable from the fruit, while the acidity is simply salivating. Glimpses of baked earth, granite and graphite appear, but truly, this will take years to unfold. For now, it’s all iron fist. The yet-to-be-bottled 2020 which I tasted alongside will likely be approachable long before this.”
Arriving in July from Giacomo Conterno:
Giacomo Conterno Nebbiolo d’Alba Vigna Arione 2021 750ml $189 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The 2021 Nebbiolo d’Alba Vigna Arione is all class. Perfumed and silky on the palate, with medium-bodied structure, the 2021 embodies the virtues of elegance and class. Crushed flowers, white pepper and mint play off a core of vibrant, red-toned fruit. What a beautiful wine this is. As a reminder, the Nebbiolo d’Alba Vigna Arione emerges from a section in Arione that is just outside the Barolo appellation. Vines here were replanted after the 2015 harvest. The Nebbiolo was vinified in wood and then spent 31 months in cask, a classic Barolo élevage.”
Giacomo Conterno Arione, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $289 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Giacomo Conterno Arione, Barolo DOCG 2021 1.5L $689 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97+ points “The 2021 Barolo Arione is a wine of exquisite finesse and elegance. The bouquet alone is immediately arresting. Then again, that is such an Arione signature. Sage, rose petal, mint, orange peel and dried flowers begin to emerge over time. Nearly seamless tannins and exceptional balance add to its total allure, while strong floral and savory accents punctuate the finish.”
Giacomo Conterno Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $279 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Giacomo Conterno Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2021 1.5L $679 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2021 Barolo Cerretta is the most approachable of Conterno’s 2021 Barolos. It seems to offer a bit less overall dimension and complexity than the other Barolos and, therefore, more complete balance of its components in the early going that should allow it to start opening with a few years in bottle. There’s plenty of underlying nervy structure, and yet the Cerretta is not quite as imposing as its siblings in this range. Floral and spice overtones gradually open with a bit of aeration.”
Giacomo Conterno Francia, Barolo DOCG 2021 750ml $299 pre-arrival special, 12 bottles available
Giacomo Conterno Francia, Barolo DOCG 2021 1.5L $699 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 99 points “The 2021 Barolo Francia is a vertical, explosive Barolo endowed with tons of energy. Bright acids and fine beams of tannin provide the framework for this striking young Barolo. All the elements are so well balanced. Time in the glass brings out an interplay of mineral-drenched energy, persistence and textural breadth. There’s a lot of structure, and yet the tannins feel fine-grained and finessed. I especially admire its translucent energy. Magnificent.”
Giacomo Conterno Monfortino, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml $899 pre-arrival special, 15 bottles available
Decanter 100 points “Demonstrating the meticulous precision for which the estate is known, the 2019 Monfortino is a thoroughbred. I was able to taste it on a couple of occasions during its maturation, after the blend of Francia and Arione was made. Since bottling last spring, it has retreated into itself and now just hints at black tea, truffle and dark wet earth. The tannins are still rigid and stubborn, though very sophisticated and inextricable from the fruit, while the acidity is simply salivating. Glimpses of baked earth, granite and graphite appear, but truly, this will take years to unfold. For now, it’s all iron fist. The yet-to-be-bottled 2020 which I tasted alongside will likely be approachable long before this.”
We offer twenty-eight bottles of Giacomo Conterno in-stock now.
Shop our complete selection!
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
Goodfellow
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Goodfellow
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Goodfellow
Envinate
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Envinate
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Envinate
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Goodfellow sale ends Tuesday, June 24th at 9 am Pacific. Envinate sale ends Wednesday, June 25th at 9 am Pacific.