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Royal Tokaji Sale 10-2-24

Royal Tokaji Sale
 
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Tokaji is one of the world’s greatest sweet wines. Written about in reverential tones throughout history, they fell out of favor when communist rule severely impacted the quality and availability of the wines.
 
The Royal Tokaji Company has led the region’s renaissance. Notable wine writer Hugh Johnson founded the company in 1990 with the sole purpose of revitalizing these once renowned wines. In addition to their maniacal focus on quality, the company has also been reviving the single-vineyards that were once synonymous with the best Hungarian bottlings.
 
They craft wines in a range of styles from bone-dry to one of the naturally sweetest styles possible, the rare Essencia. The results are some of the greatest wines being made in the world, offering unparalleled experiences in your glass.
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock wines from Royal Tokaji
10% off any 6 or more in-stock wines from Royal Tokaji
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Sale ends Saturday, October 5th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer thirteen options from Royal Tokaji on sale now, including:
 
Royal Tokaji ‘The Oddity’ Dry Furmint 2019 750ml Was $19, Displayed Price: $16, that’s $15.20 at 5% off and $14.40 at 10% off, 33 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “This medium straw-colored wine has aromas of lemon curd and gooseberry. It is well balanced in the midpalate with flavors of lemon curd and bright lemon pith. It has nice minerality and a crisp finish.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $19.50
 
Royal Tokaji Mézes Mály Dry Furmint Great First Growth 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 9 bottles in stock now
Wilson Daniels Importer Note “Mézes Mály (MAIZE-esh my) is arguably the world’s original ‘superstar’ vineyard. The first classification of the already legendary vineyards of Tokaji took place in the 1730’s, the earliest of any wine region, and Mézes Mály was designated as a “Great First Growth” – one of only two vineyards with that classification. Royal Tokaji and Hugh Johnson jointly own this vineyard, which is the winery’s only vineyard with deep loess topsoil over volcanic bedrock. Vine age ranges from 20 to 60 years old.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Royal Tokaji Mézes Mály Dry Furmint Great First Growth 2022 750ml Was $39, Displayed Price: $33, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Importer Tasting Note “Mézes Mály Furmint is a sleek, concentrated wine with elegance and a subtle floral character – hints of spice, and plenty of white peach and apricot fruit all balanced by refreshing, crisp acidity and a lingering finish.”
Winery Note “Mézes Mály is one of just two vineyards classified as a Great First Growth. Its volcanic bedrock is overlaid with deep loess soil, giving elegance, finesse and floral notes to its wines. Royal Tokaji owns 11 of its 19 hectares, facing south with views to the Great Plain in the distance. Mézes Mály Furmint is a sleek, concentrated wine with elegancy and a subtle floral character, hints of spice, and plenty of white peach and apricot fruit all balanced by refreshing, crisp acidity and a lingering finish.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Royal Tokaji Úragya Dry Furmint First Growth 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Úrágya, means “God’s bed”. The vineyard sits in a dip between two extinct volcanoes to the west of Mád. Viewed from our village it is where we see the sun “go to sleep” every night. Our vines are on the western slope in the higher parts of the vineyard. The unique volcanic soils build the structure, backbone and minerality of this delicious dry wine. Maturation in oak barrels adds further complexity and roundness.”
Winery Note “A fresh, crisp wine showing all the fine qualities of the unique Furmint grape. Aromas of grape flowers, apple and pear combine with flavours of ripe apricot and peach to produce a sleek, intense dry wine with a long, refreshing finish.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Royal Tokaji Úragya Dry Furmint First Growth 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 5 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Úrágya, means “God’s bed”. The vineyard sits in a dip between two extinct volcanoes to the west of Mád. Viewed from our village it is where we see the sun “go to sleep” every night. 2022 was an early vintage with good balance, elegance and power in the dry wines, and creamy richness in the sweets. Drought conditions through the vintage and relatively higher temperatures conducted to an early harvest–from the end of August until mid-September. We achieved high quality by picking our grapes at the optimum moment, enabling perfect balance. The unique volcanic soil builds the structure, backbone and minerality of this delicious dry wine. Maturation in oak barrels adds further complexity and roundness.”
 
Royal Tokaji “Mad Cuvée” Late Harvest 2018 500ml Displayed Price: $20.90, that’s $19.86 at 5% off and $18.81 at 10% off, 3 500ml-bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “This amber-colored late-harvest wine from Tokaj has aromas of honeycomb and white flowers, especially jasmine and freesia. In the mouth, it has nice fruit sweetness and flavors of clover honey, ripe apricot and yellow peach.”
 
Royal Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 2017 500ml Was $59, Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 9 500ml-bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points “A waft of beeswax on the nose transitions on the palate to a pure and lovely beam of poached apricot fruit, accented by dried raspberry, candied ginger, hazelnut biscotti and honeysuckle notes. Fine and creamy on the palate, with a long, lightly mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2030.”
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Dark amber in the glass, this Tokaj Aszú has aromas of honeycomb, jasmine and freesia. In the mouth are intense flavors of ripe yellow peach and dried apricot.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Royal Tokaji “By Appointment Only” No. 4 ‘Szent Tamas’ Late Harvest Furmint 2016 375ml Was $39, Displayed Price: $33, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off, 15 half-bottles in stock now
Winery note “Spicy, aromatic on the palate with hints of fresh pear and peaches. The freshness, the mineral structure, the full-bodied richness all together form a perfect balance in taste. Long, clean aftertaste with nice barrel maturation notes.”
16.5/20 Jancis Robinson
 
Royal Tokaji “By Appointment Only” No. 10 Tokaji Aszú 6 Puttonyos Furmint 2013 375ml Was $99, Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 10 half-bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Rich intense nose with hints of orange and spice. Full flavoured with citrus, pear and quince fruit, outstanding structure and a long, crisp finish. A perfect vintage with miraculous weather, perfect conditions during autumn for the development of Aszú – misty mornings, warm drying winds blowing across the Great Plain of Hungary and sweeping the mists up into the vineyards. Harvested from Royal Tokaji exclusively owned vineyards, excellent quality Furmint Aszú berries with good structure and perfect botrytis were macerated in fermenting Furmint must for two days. After pressing, the wine was filled into three 300 litre old Hungarian oak casks and transferred down into Royal Tokaji’s extensive, deep underground cellars to mature for 23 months. The final blend was made during early spring in 2016 and bottled in May. Enjoy at this young age or cellar for future enjoyment as the wine matures. Sip on its own as an aperitif, serve with fruit-based desserts or hard cheeses or enjoy this mouth-watering wine on its own instead of a dessert.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Royal Tokaji By Appointment Only” No.11 Kabar Aszú 6 Puttonyos 2018 500ml Was $79, Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 11 500ml-bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Rich intense nose with hints of tropical fruits and spice. Very fine and elegant wine, full-flavoured with vibrant acidity, citrus and peach on the palate with a long, balanced finish. Enjoy at this young age or cellar for future enjoyment as the wine matures. Sip on its own as an aperitif, serve with fruit based desserts or hard cheeses or enjoy this mouth watering wine on its own instead of a dessert.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Royal Tokaji Nyulászó Aszú 6 Puttonyos First Growth 2016 500ml Displayed Price: $119, that’s $113.05 at 5% off and $107.10 at 10% off, 1 500ml-bottle in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 95 points “The 2016 Nyulászó First Growth Tokaji Aszú 6 Puttonyos, which delivers 180g/L residual sugar, has a deep, honeyed, slightly more introverted bouquet compared to the Ste. Tamás. It gradually reveals scents of manuka honey, orange pith and quince jus, yet it clearly deserves several years to really open. The palate is very well balanced, harmonious and brimming with tension. Pears, Seville orange marmalade, hints of mandarin and fresh figs vie for attention. This is a powerful, intense Tokaji, but razor-sharp, delivering real precision and “bite” toward the finish. Outstanding.”
 
Royal Tokaji Szt. Tamás Aszú 6 Puttonyos 2017 500ml Displayed Price: $108, that’s $102.60 at 5% off and $97.20 at 10% off, 7 500ml-bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 95 points “The 2017 Tokaji Szt. Tamás 6-Puttonyos comes from red-clay topsoils in the commune of Mád. This is more backward compared to the Mézes Mály, and very much more citrus-driven, featuring lemon peel, orange zest and crushed stone aromas; the Aszú element is more discreet. The fresh, vibrant palate is well balanced and harmonious, offering a fine bead of acidity and candied orange peel toward the finish. Edgier than Royal Tokaji’s other 2017s, and perhaps spicier on the finish, this will be fascinating to observe mature in bottle. 3,635 bottles produced.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Royal Tokaji Essencia 2009 375ml Displayed Price: $899, that’s $854.05 at 5% off and $809.10 at 10% off, 5 half-bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 99 points “The 2009 Tokaji Essencia comes in 1,386 individual red lacquer hand-crafted boxes containing a 375ml bottle and an obligatory hand-blown glass spoon, which is not there for decorative purposes. It does enhance imbibement, allowing that enormous hit of sucrosity to land straight on the tongue instead of clinging to the sides of your mouth or gums. It has a surprisingly bashful nose for the first 12 hours. Whereas some burst from the glass, this chooses to unfurl and only as if toying with you, gradually reveals scents of fresh fig, Medjool dates, Seville orange marmalade and Clementines. I notice that the aromatics blossom on the second day as it deftly slips into fifth gear. The palate also meliorates, obviously unctuous and yet paradoxically weightless thanks to that acidity. Again, fig features prominently allied with marmalade, demerara and quince, more desiccated orange peel and syrup towards the harmonious finish. Wonderful precision throughout, this magnificent Essencia that will outlast you and I.”
James Suckling 99 points “Wine does not get more concentrated, dense and viscous than this Tokaji Essencia, but alongside the unctuous sweetness, it also has extraordinary freshness. The fruit aromas range from blood to quince jelly, but there’s also a slew of spices and notes of flowers and forest honey. Although it barely has 2% alcohol, it is much more vinous than that figure suggests. Titanic brulee character at the huge finish. Just 1,386 half-bottles were made. Should live longer than any of us! Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Shop our thirteen in-stock Royal Tokaji selections on sale now on our webstore!


 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
Wehlener Sonnenuhr Sale
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from Wehlener Sonnenuhr
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from Wehlener Sonnenuhr
 
Northern Rhone Sale
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from the Northern Rhone
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from the Northern Rhone
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Wehlener Sonnenuhr sale ends Thursday, October 3rd at 9 am Pacific. Northern Rhone sale ends Friday, October 4th at 9 am Pacific.

Northern Rhone Sale 10-1-24

Northern Rhone Sale
 
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The Northern Rhone is one of the hottest markets in the wine world and the greatest terroir for the noble Syrah grape. Recent vintages have offered up some of the finest wines ever produced in the region. While pricing lags behind, the writing is on the wall. Now is one of the best times to explore the offerings and to top up your cellar, especially during our three-day sale!

5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from the Northern Rhone
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from the Northern Rhone
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Sale ends Friday, October 4th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer eighty-two options from the Northern Rhone on sale now, including:
 
White
 
Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $44.50, that’s $42.28 at 5% off and $40.05 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “Delivers attractive pear, melon and chamomile notes that turn creamy on the medium-weight palate, with crushed stone and bitter quinine accents. Starts subdued, then turns broad and full, with dried lemon peel and herb details. Marsanne and Roussanne. Drink now through 2027.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Domaine Benjamin et David Duclaux Condrieu Les Caillets 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “I loved the 2019 Condrieu Les Caillets. A real beauty, this supple, sexy Condrieu has classic yellow and citrus fruits, lots of honey and flower notes, medium to full body, and a great finish. It brings lots of fruit yet stays fresh, silky, and clean, and is just a joy to drink. It’s geared for the dinner table and should be enjoyed over the coming 2-3 years.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
M. Chapoutier Ermitage de l’Oree Blanc 1999 750ml Displayed Price: $349, that’s $331.55 at 5% off and $314.10 at 10% off, 2 bottles in stock now
Robert Parker-Wine Advocate 99 points “The awesome 1999 Ermitage Cuvee de l’Oree flirts with perfection. It is full-bodied, with an incredible bouquet of liquid minerals, licorice, honeysuckle, citrus, and a hint of tropical fruits. One-hundred percent new oak aging has been completely absorbed by the wine’s fruit and glycerin. This is a winemaking tour de force, made from exceedingly low yields of 12-15 hectoliters per hectare (less than one ton of fruit per acre). However, readers should understand that these are often unusual wines to drink because they tend to show exceptionally well for 4-5 years after bottling, then close up until about age 12. They can last for 4-5 decades. Anticipated maturity: now-2006; 2012-2050. Along with Gerard and Jean-Louis Chave, Chapoutier is producing the finest expressions of white Hermitage. His single vineyard cuvees are to die for if you like these eccentric, idiosyncratic, mammoth dry whites.”
 
Domaine Garon Condrieu La Vieille Maison 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $56, that’s $53.20 at 5% off and $50.40 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Producer Note “Blends of localities in the Condrieu appellation, crade of the Viognier grape variety. A traditional dry wine, with aromas of peach and apricot.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
E. Guigal Condrieu La Doriane 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 93 points “While the 2020 Condrieu la Doriane matured entirely in new oak, there’s just a hint of toast on the nose. The rest of the bouquet features a kaleidoscopic swirl of floral and spice notes with melon and white peach. Medium to full-bodied, it’s exquisitely expansive and silky in texture, yet it remains refreshing on the lengthy, mouthwatering finish.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Saint Cosme Condrieu 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Hefty, modern and lush, with an enticing cascade of creamed pear, mango and papaya flavors cut through with dried herbs and chamomile, backed by a refreshing kick of bitter quinine. A brioche accent adds warmth, but the vein of tangy acidity keeps this clean. Drink now through 2027. 90 cases imported.”
 
 
Reds
 
Côtes-du-Rhône
 
Domaine Garon ‘Les Grandes Parcelles’ Syrah, IGP Collines Rhodaniennes 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $26, that’s $24.70 at 5% off and $23.40 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Producer Note “Coming from our plots located on the heights. A great introduction to Syrah from the Northern Rhone valley. Red and violet fruits on the nose, nice tension on the palate.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Domaine Guillaume Gilles Côtes-du-Rhône Les Peyrouses 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Wine Note “Cotes du Rhone Les Peyrouses: This wine, feral and exciting, issues from an old vines parcel on the flats in Cornas. The soil is sand and clay overlain with large “galet” stones. The vinification is the same as is used for the more prestigious wines of the cellar. Best described as a “mini-Cornas”, it’s outside of its generic category of Cotes du Rhone.”
 
 
Cornas
 
Among the excellent villages producing Syrah wines in the Northern Rhone, Cornas provides the goldilocks of reds: not as rustic as Crozes, not as polished as Hermitage, and not as elegant as Côte Rôtie, but instead a glorious middle-ground between all three. Here we find one of our favorite Syrah producers: Domaine Durand. The brothers Eric and Joël craft wines in a sweet spot, combining elegance, drinkability, and age-worthiness. Delivering ripe fruit, savory minerality and lifted aromatics, the meticulous work by these brothers is evident from first pour. Never hyper glossy or overly rustic, these epitomize Cornas in all the ways we love.
 
Domaine Courbis Cornas Les Eygats 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2016 Cornas Les Eygats is the gem in 2016 and has a fresh, focused, backward style that carries notes of crème de cassis, spring flowers, pepper, and crushed rocks. With full-bodied richness, good acidity, and impeccable balance, it’s a brilliant wine, but it’s going to need 2-3 years of bottle age to show its full potential.”
 
Delas Frères Cornas Chante Perdrix 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Inky ruby. Assertive, smoke-accented aromas of ripe black and blue fruits, candied flowers, olive and exotic spices show excellent clarity and mineral lift. Sweet, pliant and lush on the palate, offering concentrated blackberry, cherry liqueur, smoky bacon and violet pastille flavors that show a peppery note on the back half. The impressively long, youthfully tannic finish shows fine detail and leaves behind repeating smoke and floral notes.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $44.50, that’s $42.28 at 5% off and $40.05 at 10% off, 25 bottles in stock now
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes 2019 1.5L Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 6 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Iron, peppered game, smoked black and blue fruits, and new leather notes emerge from the 2019 Cornas Empreintes, and it’s medium to full-bodied and wonderfully balanced, with ripe tannins and one hell of a great finish. It’s another pure, balanced, fruit-loaded beauty from this estate that has tons of character. This cuvée comes from hillside parcels (a mix of granite and limestone) and 30-year-old vines. It was 75% destemmed and spent a year in 20% new barrels.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 95 points “Sure, the 2019 Cornas Empreintes is lightly cedary up front, but those notes are more than balanced by crushed stone, salted licorice, and bold cassis and blueberry flavors. Full-bodied and concentrated, this is a rock-solid Cornas with a long, dusty finish, capable of aging and improving up to two decades. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
 
Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brûlée 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2019 Cornas Terre Brûlée showed brilliantly, with an exotic style in its darker fruits as well as notes of camphor, balsam wood, plums, and ground pepper. It has tons of minerality on the palate and is full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, with enough tannins to warrant a solid 5-7 years of bottle age. It’s a beautiful, classic, impeccably made Cornas that will have two decades of longevity.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Domaine Vincent Paris Cornas Granit 60 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $64.50, that’s $61.28 at 5% off and $58.05 at 10% off, 10 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “A well-composed, velvety and vivid Cornas with brightness and purity. Aromas of dark cherries, currants, wild herbs, graphite and black pepper. Medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Good concentration with precise fruit and a constant mineral edge. The peppercorn and stone character brings freshness and verve to the energetic mid-palate. It’s vibrant and vertical with a lot of tension in the long, textured and spicy finish. Try after 2027.”

 
Côte Rôtie
 
Côte Rôtie (“roasted slope”) is home to some of the most elegant Syrahs produced in all of France. The area is aptly named for the steep, terraced hillsides overlooking the Rhone River that are baked in the sun. It is the northern-most appellation in the Rhone, buttressed by the tiny Chateau-Grillet to its south-west and punctuated by the village of Vienne to the east.
 
Here, Syrah vines translate those long, sunny days into richly flavored and powerful reds tempered by a unique and elegant perfume. Look here for some of the most dynamic and aromatic expressions of Syrah that the Old World offers.
 
Delas Frères Côte Rôtie Seigneur de Maugiron 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Saturated ruby-red. Deeply pitched dark berry, cherry liqueur, licorice and woodsmoke scents show fine clarity and acquire oak spice and floral pastille qualities with air. Juicy and expansive on the palate, offering intense blackberry, cherry-vanilla, fruitcake and salty olive flavors that are sharpened by a jolt of spicy cracked pepper. Shows excellent depth and power; finishes smoky and very long, with youthfully gripping tannins sneaking in late.”
 
Domaine Rene Rostaing Côte Rôtie La Landonne 2010 750ml Displayed Price: $259, that’s $246.05 at 5% off and $233.10 at 10% off, 3 bottles in stock now
Robert Parker-Wine Advocate 96 points “The prodigious 2010 Côte Rôtie La Landonne reveals a dense purple color along with a huge, impressive perfume of roasted meats, black currants, black raspberries and scorched earth. This 100% Syrah comes from vines planted on exceptionally steep slopes composed of schist and iron-like sub-soils. Some graphite also makes an appearance in this mineral-dominated, well-delineated, rich, intense wine.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Rene Rostaing Côte Rôtie Cote Blonde 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $249, that’s $236.55 at 5% off and $224.10 at 10% off, 2 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “The 2016 Cote Rotie La Cote Blonde (from the lieu-dit of the same name—not a blend of sites) is a terrific effort. It blends the structure of la Viallière with the elegance of la Landonne, making it a truly complete and compelling bottle. Some mocha, black olive and meaty notes lend it a savory cast, while the palate is creamy and concentrated, firm but silky. It’s medium to full-bodied, with a fine, licorice-tinged finish that lingers a good long time. It should drink well for 20+ years.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
 
Crozes-Hermitage
 
Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $44.50, that’s $42.28 at 5% off and $40.05 at 10% off, 19 bottles in stock now
John Gilman-A View From the Cellar 93 points “The 2021 Crozes-Hermitage from Domaine Alain Graillot is a superb wine (as always). The bouquet is deep, pure and precise, wafting from the glass in a mix of cassis, black raspberries, pepper, espresso, grilled meats, dark soil tones and a generous topnote of smokiness. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and very elegant in profile, with an excellent core of black fruit, fine mineral drive and grip, fine-grained tannins and a long, complex well balanced and peppery finish. First class Crozes that deserves at least a handful of years in the cellar to soften up its backend tannins a bit. This is my favorite Graillot straight Crozes since the beautiful 1989 version! 2029-2055. (Sep/Oct 2023)”
 
Emmanuel Darnaud Crozes-Hermitage Au Fil du Temps 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Emmanuel Darnaud Crozes-Hermitage Au Fil du Temps 2018 1.5L Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 7 magnums in stock now
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 94 points “Marked by intense aromas of licorice and seared beefsteak, Darnaud’s 2018 Crozes Hermitage Au Fil du Temps backs those up with notes of blueberries and black olives. Full-bodied, richly concentrated and tannic—but supple and ripe—with a bright, refreshing and lengthy finish, it’s a beauty of a Crozes to drink over the next decade.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “More chocolatey black and blue fruits, violets, damp earth, and bouquet garni-like notes emerge from the 2018 Crozes-Hermitage Au Fil Du Temps. This rich, powerful, full-bodied Crozes shows the classic balance, elegance, and purity that are present in all of Emmanuel’s wines. With plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe, mouth-coating tannins, and outstanding length, this brilliant effort will keep for 10-15 years.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “On the exotic side, with a mix of açaí, blueberry and boysenberry reduction flavors entwined with licorice root and singed alder notes. Everything knits wonderfully through the finish, letting the fruit drip while the background notes flicker. Drink now through 2028. 210 cases made, 40 cases imported. –JM”
 
Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 90-92 points “Leading off the red Northern Rhônes from barrel, the 2020 Crozes-Hermitage is medium to full-bodied, textured, and seamless, with classic berry, darker fruits, pepper, and violet aromatics. I love its texture.”
 
 
Hermitage
 
This small appellation, sometimes called Ermitage, is responsible for some of France’s most prestigious wines. Hermitage is a granite hill with shallow soils of limestone or sandy gravel. Vines are grown along the southern slope facing the Rhone River where they can soak up the sun during the long summer days. At the top of the slope is a chapel, which gives its name to Jaboulet’s top vineyard, La Chapelle. The vineyard of Les Bessards lies on the western side of the hill, the source of one of Delas Freres’ top bottlings. Though Hermitage wines don’t begin to approach the prices of First Growth Bordeaux, they can hold their own in the cellar and your glass. Rich and robust, these full-bodied wines can age for decades.
 
M. Chapoutier Ermitage l’Ermite 2013 750ml Displayed Price: $249, that’s $236.55 at 5% off and $224.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 97 points “Sleek, with mouthwatering flavors of red currant, raspberry and cherry preserves forming the core, while a dusting of cocoa, a snap of red licorice and a long, lingering iron spine complete the picture. Very pure and focused. The minerality wins out in the end. Best from 2019 through 2032. 29 cases imported. — JM”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Delas Frères Hermitage Les Bessards 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $219, that’s $208.05 at 5% off and $197.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Delas Frères Hermitage Les Bessards 2019 1.5L Displayed Price: $449, that’s $426.55 at 5% off and $404.10 at 10% off, 4 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 99 points “My favorite release from this estate is consistently their Les Bessards Hermitage, and their 2019 is no exception. Coming from the western part and pure broken granite soils on the west side of this magical hill, it sports a dense purple hue to go with a brilliant perfume of cassis, graphite, scorched earth, burning embers, spring flowers, and peppery herbs. Incredibly complex, layered, and nuanced, with classic Hermitage characteristics, it still stays firmly planted in the ripe, sunny, sexy vintage. Full-bodied, concentrated, and structured on the palate, it has a wealth of tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. This is pure Hermitage magic that needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years and will evolve for 20-30 years in cold cellars. Hats off to the team at Delas for another incredible wine.”
 
Paul Jaboulet Domaine de la Chapelle Hermitage La Chapelle 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $189, that’s $179.55 at 5% off and $170.10 at 10% off, 22 bottles in stock now
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2017 Hermitage La Chapelle comes from the firm’s vineyards on the western half of the Hermitage slope, primarily Le Méal, but with substantial contributions from Les Rocoules and Les Bessards. Classic notes of cassis, black olives, mocha and roasted meat are joined by hints of baking spices in a wine that’s full-bodied, deep, dense and rich, with a velvety texture and a lingering finish. It’s lower in alcohol than the 2018, less voluptuous and maybe just a step behind that monumental wine, but it’s still a serious collectible with three decades of evolution ahead of it.-JC”
James Suckling 98 points “The icon is in dangerously seductive form. Such pristine dark cherries, blackberries and dark plums, dark chocolate, finely crushed spices and plenty of crushed dark stones on offer. The palate is very intense, very slick and fine tannins deliver an almost playfully soft impression. The oak is super integrated. Like La Maison Bleue, this approachability is an aberration, as it has immense power, concentration and length with such regal and alluring swagger at the finish. But there is so much more to come. Try from 2024, better after 2030.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
 
Saint Joseph
 
Delas Frères Saint-Joseph Sainte-Epine 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $79, that’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off, 28 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “This flows beautifully, with a ripe, pure and steady beam of cassis and dark cherry preserves that shows good brightness and delineation through the finish, picking up light floral and mineral accents along the way. Seductive in style, with a lovely mouthfeel and sneaky length. Best from 2022 through 2032. 500 cases made, 155 cases imported. –JM”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph 2021 750ml Was $39, Displayed Price: $33, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off, 36 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 92 points “Exudes a graceful profile, with litheness to the red cherry, potpourri, plum and licorice notes, underscored by a charming terroir signature and white pepper. Gains definition from a vein of salt and minerality, while the silky palate is propped up by cashmere-fine tannins. Drink now through 2028. 250 cases imported.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Shop our eighty-two in-stock the Northern Rhone selections on sale now on our webstore!


 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
Gaja
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock Gaja wines
10% off any 6 or more in-stock Gaja wines
 
Wehlener Sonnenuhr Sale
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from Wehlener Sonnenuhr
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from Wehlener Sonnenuhr
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Gaja sale wine discount ends Wednesday, October 2nd at 9 am Pacific. Wehlener Sonnenuhr sale ends Thursday, October 3rd at 9 am Pacific.

Vinopolis Newsletter 9-30-24 PM

In This Newsletter:


Special Arrivals
Born to Rhône

Arrivals
K Vintners, Evesham Wood, and more!

Collector’s Corner
Sometimes Great Things Come in Threes
 
Special Arrivals

Born To Rhône: Old Friends and New Favorites
 

Domaine de Saint-Siffrein
 
 
It’s been a long time since the wines of Saint Siffrein have graced our shelves… but we’re pleased to have them back.
 
Founded by the Chastan family in 1880, this 5th generation Certified Organic winery produces some of the finest values from Chateauneuf we’ve encountered since Saint Cosme first came across our radar. These wines show well integrated fruit and tannin, a very pleasant style that drinks well at a relatively young age.

Exclusive! These are the only listings in the USA!
 
Saint Siffrein Cotes Du Rhone Au Bord Du Chemin Rouge, France 2020 750ml $21.90 special, 24 bottles available
Winery Note “Gourmand and fruity wine with supple tanins. Vintage organic certified, made with organic grapes. Grenache and Syrah. Can be served with any cuisine.”
 
Saint Siffrein Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, Rhône, France 2023 750ml $36 special, 24 bottles available
Winery Note “Original blend of the 6 grape varieties of the Appellation: Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Piquepoul and Picardan, certified organic. “It’s my little marvel!” according to Cyril the winegrower…Its freshness and its aromas of flowers and white-fleshed fruits make it a gourmet wine.”
 
Saint Siffrein Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rouge, Rhône, France 2021 750ml $44.50 special, 24 bottles available
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 91+ Points “Saint Siffrein’s 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape is rather light in hue, but it boasts attractive black cherry compote aromas, plus hints of cedar and vanilla. Mainly matured in foudres, this blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault is full-bodied, expansive and supple, then slightly woody and astringent on the finish. Give it another year or two to settle down.”
 
Château Saint Cosme
 
Our long-standing relationship with the winery allows us to provide our customers with consistent, high-quality wines. One such relationship that we’re incredibly proud to promote is that of Château Saint Cosme in the Southern Rhone.
 
Everything Louis Barroul gets his hands on turns into magic in the glass. The estate is now producing wines denominated across all the famous appellations of the Rhône and across all consumer price-points. You heard it here first, the Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone bottlings are one of the finest values in all of wine. That’s not an overstatement or embellishment.
 
Château Saint Cosme is a renowned wine estate in the Rhone Valley with a history dating back to 1490. Current owner Louis Barroul has focused on producing high-quality wines using biodynamic farming and traditional winemaking techniques. The estate’s wines are known for their balance of fruit, acidity, and freshness, thanks to the unique limestone soils of Gigondas.
 
Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhône Rouge, France 2022 750ml $16 special, 36+ bottles available
(Not reviewed yet, 2021 vintage provided for reference)
Stuart Piggot, JamesSuckling.com 93 Points “Stacks of dark forest berries plus notes of smoke, pepper and tar make this a very expressive St.-Joseph. Impressive depth and ripeness for the 2021 vintage on the front and mid-palates, then the stony minerality kicks in giving it more power at the sleek and structured finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2024.”
 
Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion, Rhone, France 2021 750ml $21.90 special, 22 bottles available
Saint Cosme CDR Les Deux Albion 2021, Rhône, France 1.5L $39 special, 5 magnums available
James Suckling 92 Points “Textured, layered and focused. It expresses notes of dark berries, roasted meat, warm spices, bay leaves and some dried thyme. Medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Plenty of energy, focus and structure. More compact toward the finish. From organically grown grapes. Try after 2025.”
Lowest listed 750ml price on the West Coast
Lowest Magnum price in entire USA
 
Saint Cosme Les Deux Albion Blanc, IGP Vaucluse Principaute d’Orange, France 2023 750ml $21.90 special, 36 bottles available
30% Viognier, 30% Picpoul, 20% Marsanne, 6% Clairette, 6% Ugni Blanc, 5% Bourboulenc.
Winery Notes “Château de Saint Cosme is the leading estate of Gigondas and produces the benchmark wines of the appellation. The property has been in the hands of the Barruol family since 1490. Louis Barruol took over from his father in 1992 making a dramatic shift to quality and converting to biodynamics in 2010.“
Lowest listed price on the West Coast
 
 
New Arrivals
 
Washington
 
K Vintners ‘The Boy’ Grenache, Walla Walla Valley, USA 2021 750ml $44.50 special, 36+ bottles available
James Suckling 99 Points “Super smooth and mouth-filling but also lacy and filigreed, the wine combines powerful, broad and ripe strawberries, red plums and cedar on a full body blanketed in soft tannins but with fresh acidity. Aged 18 months on the lees in neutral, large-format barrels. Drink now or hold.”
Average listed price is $52
 
K Vintners ‘M.C.K. Motor City Kitty’ Syrah, Washington, USA 2021 750ml $39 special, 22 bottles available
James Suckling 99 Points “The aromas leap out of the glass. Wet earth, tapenade, green peppercorns, volcanic ash and tea leaves. Hints of orange peel. It’s electric on the palate, so savory, so earthy and so minerally, with stemmy and tea-like tannins. The freshness and energy are astounding, and the finish just keeps going. Delicious syrah. Drink or hold.”
Average listed price is $41
 
 
Oregon
 
Evesham Wood
 

“Erin Nuccio of Evesham wood and Haden Fig is making some of the most delicious, compelling Pinot Noir in Willamette Valley.” -Food and Wine Magazine
 
We’ve had the pleasure of drinking Evesham Wood’s wines for over a decade now and they never, ever disappoint. Beyond their dedication to organic viticulture and natural winemaking, they are expertly restrained, terroir-focused wines perfect for pairing with great food.
 
Evesham Wood Le Puits Sec Pinot Noir 2022 750ml $51.90 special, 12 bottles available
Decanter 97 Points “What a beautiful Pinot Noir from the Evesham Wood estate Le Puits Sec, with 85% of this wine coming from the older vine, 1986 plantings. Aromatics of smoky rose petals and dried violets are buoyed by notes of wild mint, tea tree oil and a seaspray saline note that goes on and on. The palate is delicate, refined and yet so energetic. Mouthfuls of vibrant red cranberries, a spritz of blood orange and delightfully spiced wild strawberries. The cool 2022 vintage has set this wine up perfectly, it’s brilliantly harmonious now, and it will age for aeons. Burgundy, eat your heart out.”
 
Evesham Wood Mahonia Pinot Noir 2022 750ml $41.90 special, 12 bottles available
Decanter 95 Points “To the south of the Eola-Amity appellation lies Mahonia Vineyard, planted in 1985, and farmed diligently by winemaker Erin Nuccio. It abounds with savoury and floral with chicory root spice complexity. Aromatics of alpine herbs and flowers, fresh spearmint and dried blood orange peel. The palate is elegant and refined, with tart red berries, savoury dried herbs and mint and a rich note of amaro-driven herbaceous character delivering tremendous complexity.”
 
Evesham Wood Sojeau Pinot Noir 2022 750ml $41.95 special, 12 bottles available
Decanter 94 Points “The Sojeau Vineyard formerly Sojourner sits at about 270m in the Eola-Amity Hills and is both organic and dry-farmed, planted in 2007. Winemaker Erin Nuccio uses Pommard, Wadenswil, and 115 in this single vineyard bottling. Its aromatic intensity hits you with dollops of florals, ripe blue fruit aromatics and a note of freshly turned earth. The palate pulsates with freshness and minerality but offers an intensity of blue and dark red berry fruits. Red plum skins, wild mountain berries and sweet hints of ripe strawberry draw you in, the finish closes with elements of tea leaves and dried mint.”
 
Evesham Wood Temperance Pinot Noir 2022 750ml $44.50 special, 12 bottles available
Decanter 96 Points “Richly mineral, with the elegance evocative of Burgundy. The Temperance Hill Pinot Noir from Evesham Wood is comprised of mostly 1982 planted vines, along with some replanting from 2015. Aromatics of dusty books, pencil lead and dried rose petals announce this beautiful Pinot Noir from one of Oregon’s definitive cru sites. The palate is silken, with fine country hints of rusticity. Dried herbs, tamari and chicory root set a savoury tone met by elements of black tea and red plum skins. Delicious, refined and timeless.”

Italy
 
Cantina Pra

“The Prà winery, although only started in the early 1980’s, has come to be not only one of the top producers in the Soave appellation, but also one of the most important and visionary white wine makers in all of Italy.” –Polaner Selections
 
 hot deal!  Cantina Pra Soave Classico Otto 2023 750ml $19 special, 35 bottles available
Ned Goodwin MW, JamesSuckling.com 90 Points “Energetic, mid-weighted Soave. Delicious drinking. Prosaic in the best sense, with attractive notes of garden herbs, aniseed and freshly sliced Asian pears. Some unresolved CO2 adds to the easygoing length. From organically grown grapes. “
Average listed price $23
 
Cantine Pra Staforte Soave Classico, Veneto, Italy 2021 750ml $26 special, 11 bottles available
James Suckling 91 Points “White peach and peach skin aromas follow through to a medium-bodied palate with crushed-stone minerals on the mid-palate. Crisp, fruity and mineral finish with decent length. From organically grown grapes.”
Average listed price $28
 
 Collector’s Corner
 
Quintessa: Sometimes Great Things Come in Threes
 
 
 
…brand new arrival:
 
Quintessa Red, Rutherford, California, USA 2021 750ml $249 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 100 Points “An exquisite wine, relying primarily on Cabernet Sauvignon from a single estate. Aromas of lavender, dried herbs and grapefruit pith combine with flavors of firm fruits and cocoa on a structure of abundant, powder-fine tannin and a mouthwatering finish. This wine is refined, detailed and delicious, with as much elegance as energy. Best 2026-2040.”
James Suckling 99 Points “So much graphite and volcanic character on the nose with metal shavings and gunpowder. Black ink, iron and rust, too. Blackberry and blackcurrant undertones. Full-bodied but not overpowering, with chewy and juicy tannins that are long and very subtle. Superb finish. From biodynamic grapes with Demeter certification. 91% cabernet sauvignon, 4% cabernet franc, 3% carmenere, 1% merlot, and 1% petit verdot. Drinkable now, but better in 2027.”
Jeb Dunnuck 98 Points ” …the 2021 Proprietary Red was just bottled in July of this year and checks in as 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Carmenere, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot, brought up in 64% new French oak. It offers pure blue fruits, spring flowers, violets, and spicy oak, with a beautiful chalky, mineral note that comes through more on the palate. It’s elegant, full-bodied, has ultra-fine tannins, good acidity, and terrific length. It’s another gorgeous wine that will evolve for 15+ years.”
Average listed price is $262
 
…also available from Quintessa:
 
Quintessa Red, Rutherford, California, USA 2019 750ml $219 special, 2 bottles available
Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast 100 Points “Cellar Selection. This is a winemaker’s master class in blending and understanding of a long-standing site. Dried herb, cedar and pencil shavings accent lifted red fruit and brilliant acidity on the palate, with a supple yet still youthfully grippy texture that is framed by structured, graceful tannins. Enjoy from 2029–2039. -“
 
Quintessa Red, Rutherford, California, USA  2018 750ml $219 special, 7 bottles available
James Suckling 99 Points “This is beautifully polished with firm, dusty tannins to the blue fruit, as well as chocolate and cedar character. Some much earthier character, too, from mushrooms to bark. Forest flowers. Perfumed. It’s full-bodied with round tannins and a soft, creamy finish. Some iron and iodine to this. So attractive at the finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Better after 2023.”
Wine Enthusiast 98 Points “This is an exceptional vintage of this exceptional wine, its foundation built around 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, with dustings of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Beautiful in berry fruit, textured and refined tannin and hints of lavender, licorice and sage, it has complexity and energy in equal measure, lengthy and beautifully focused, a truly impressive achievement of site, vintage and winemaker.”

Wehlener Sonnenuhr Sale 9-30-24

Wehlener Sonnenuhr Sale
 
Unlock Your Discount Now
 
Wehlener Sonnenuhr is arguably the most important and beloved portion of the entire Mosel. It was no surprise to us that Wine Spectator named it one of the world’s top ten greatest vineyards. The other nine may be a bit out of reach to the average consumer (Domaine de la Romanée-Conti’s estate vineyard isn’t exactly a pop ‘n pour). Wehlener Sonnenhur, on the other hand, still graces us with affordable, drink-now options that can easily cellar for decades, too. And the fact that it’s home to one of our most loved Mosel estates, Markus Molitor, doesn’t hurt either.
 
The soils in Sonnenuhr (which translates to “sundial” in German, in reference to the bold sundial in the vineyard) are Devonian slate. The vineyard itself is one of the country’s rockiest: laden with large, slate stones. This type of soil imparts the classic deep minerality and vibrancy to the grapes. The slate captures the heat of the day, radiating it to the grapes to aid ripening, and its poor ability to retain water encourages the vines to dig their roots deep into the soil, drawing up nutrients held far below the surface.
 
Devonian slate is considered one of the finest soil types for Riesling. Classic tasting notes from these soils include fresh herbs, florals, spices, and smoke. Markus Molitor describes the wines as “elegant, succulent, finely scented, with ripe acidity and a silky mineral finish.”
 
So explore our eighteen options on our webstore and browse highlights below. You’ll find plenty for tonight’s table and for many more evenings in the years to come.
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from Wehlener Sonnenuhr
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from Wehlener Sonnenuhr
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Sale ends Thursday, October 3rd at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer eighteen options from Wehlener Sonnenuhr on sale now, including:
 
Weingut Max Ferd. Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Uralte Reben Grosses Gewachs 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 91+ points “The 2018er Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trocken Uralte Reben GG was made in traditional Fuder cask from over 100 year-old un-grafted vines in the Brück part of the vineyard. It offers an intense nose made of grapefruit bitter, anise, herbs and some white flowers. The wine develops a rather intense but quite structured feel of lemon zest, camphor, herbs and fine spices on the palate. The finish is quite powerful and hugely tart. 2021-2028.”
“…the Richters elected to name this dry Riesling “Age-Old Ungrafted Vines,” and if, as alleged, the vines in question really are 120 years old, one can hardly consider that title hyperbole.” -David Schildknecht, writing on the 2015 vintage
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese *** Trocken (White Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $119, that’s $113.05 at 5% off and $107.10 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 98+ points “The 2019 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese *** (White Capsule) offers a deep, ripe and highly intense yet refined and noble bouquet of ripe (tropical) stone fruits such as mango, golden passion fruit and persimmon, finely crushed and flinty slate as well as iodine notes. Rich and intense yet highly refined and crystalline on the palate, with vibrant yet finessed acidity and lots of elegant or even subversive power, grip and tension, this is a highly elegant, multilayered and endlessly salty as well as frisky Sonnenuhr that delivers all the charm and complexity we may expect from this praised grand cru but rarely had in our glasses as perfectly as it comes here. This is a sustainable Sonnenuhr that I have rarely tasted with such a firm and serious structure and initial austerity. The wine has salt and tannic grip on the finish, but it has to be aged for another 8-10 years at least. One day this might be another giant from the Molitor category of “physical drinking.” Tasted from AP 52 20 in May 2021.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $159
 
The Prüm wines are high-wire acts of tension between fruit and intense minerality. By some subtle alchemy, the wines spring forth from the parcels of mostly old, ungrafted vines through spontaneous fermentation and a dash of magic in the cellar. The results are deeply expressive of their terroir, especially from the esteemed Wehlener Sonnenuhr.
 
Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 17 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “The 2020er Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett greets one with a superbly aromatic and refined floral nose of tangerine, candied grapefruit, minty herbs, some floral nuances, and yellow peach. The wine is very delicate and rather smooth on the spicy and suave palate. The finish proves tight and lean as some fine zesty elements come through and add a very playful and truly Kabinett footprint. The wine combines a feeling of light ripeness and cool freshness and proves a very successful Kabinett. 2028-2040.”
 
Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $56, that’s $53.20 at 5% off and $50.40 at 10% off, 13 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 96 points “Here is a great Mosel Kabinett that needs a bit more time to show what it is really made of. Still very young with a pronounced yeasty character that slowly recedes with aeration, but the white peach and honeysuckle aromas that emerge are stunning. Extremely vibrant and precise, the slatey acidity making this fabulously graceful. As pure as an Alpine stream running with glacier water. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.”
 
Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese Trocken (White Capsule) 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $34.50, that’s $32.78 at 5% off and $31.05 at 10% off, 19 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2020 Riesling Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese (White Capsule) is clear, pure, intense and refined, spicy and flinty on the nose that shows fully ripe, yellow-golden Riesling fruit combined with flinty/savory slate aromas. Lush and dense yet crystalline and refined on the palate, this is an elegant, very intense and saline, concentrated and substantial Sonnenuhr Spätlese that is, analytically and also sensorially, certainly an Auslese that reveals a concentrated, lemon-fresh, savory and stimulating bitter finish with great substance and class. This 2020 is remarkably complex and tensioned, but it has stimulating, zesty salinity and serious tannin structure. This impressive dry (or dry styled?) Spätlese will need another five to 10 years to open up and unfold its finesse and layers that it will easily keep for 50+ years, if cellared properly. 11.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine from AP 72 21 in July 2022.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 2020 375ml Displayed Price: $41.90, that’s $39.81 at 5% off and $37.71 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “The 2020er Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese offers a gorgeously attractive and ripe nose of almond cream, honeyed peach, smoke, tangerine, orange zest, candied grapefruit, and apricot. The wine is luscious and proves well on the sweet side on the palate. There is presence and intensity, yet the finish is already airier and more refined than what one could initially expect. Patience will be required, as usual, for the wine to develop its full complexity and integrate all its elements. 2035-2050.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today for the half-bottle!
 
Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 2022 375ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 12 half-bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 97 points “Still very youthful on the nose, this is crammed with ripe peach, plus more delicate notes of pineapple and mangosteen. It’s a minor miracle that this kind of concentration can be packed into such a sleek, medium-bodied palate. What an amazing mouthfeel this has thanks to the seamless integration of slatey acidity and ripeness. Very long finish with spot-on balance. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.”
 
Weingut Max Ferd. Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese *** 2018 375ml Was $59, Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 97+ points “The first three-starred Auslese since 2005 (prior to that, it was 1993, 1983 and 1975), the 2018 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese *** was picked at about 145° Oechsle. This is incredibly clear, pure, fine and fresh on the lush, concentrated, herbal and grapefruit-scented nose. On the palate, this is a generously lush, refined and salty-piquant Auslese with a tight mineral structure and lingering salinity. This is highly refined and extremely stimulating. It already drinks all too well today, but Constantin recommends cellaring it for at least 10 years. Tasted in March 2019.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese *** Gold Capsule 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2016 Riesling Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) indicates gorgeously ripe and lush Riesling fruit with very fine flinty slate aromas that add freshness, finesse and complexity. This nose is incredibly pure and precise and doesn’t indicate any botrytis. The palate is highly elegant and fine but, at the same time, lush and salty with a highly delicate but persistent structure. The finish is mouthwatering and enormously stimulating. This Wehlener Sonnenuhr is another extremely digestible yet complex Auslese that you can drink in large amounts without getting bored or tired. The acidity is so delicate and fine here and lets this gold-capsuled Auslese dance over your palate. I just love it. Bottled September 2017; tasted March 2018.”
 
Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese *** Gold Capsule 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $128, that’s $121.60 at 5% off and $115.20 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2017 Riesling Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) is subtle and discreet yet concentrated and deep on the delicate nose, with clear (white) peach, spicy lemon chutney and crystalline slate notes. Lush, piquant and silky, with very clear, elegant fruit and great finesse, this is a rich but lean and precise Wehlener Sonnenuhr whose acidity is terribly fine but defined and merciless as a laser beam. This is a gorgeous and already stimulating Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese of great class and style. Tasted at the domain in April 2019.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Shop our eighteen in-stock Wehlener Sonnenuhr selections on sale now on our webstore!


 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
Vinopolis End-Of-September Close-Out Sale
 
5% off any 6-11 in-stock Close-Out Sale wines
10% off any 12 or more in-stock Close-Out Sale wines
 
Gaja
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock Gaja wines
10% off any 6 or more in-stock Gaja wines
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Close-Out Sale wine discount ends Tuesday, October 1st at 9 am Pacific.

Sale on Gaja: Legend of Piedmont 9-29-24

 

When speaking about the wines of Gaja, one must realize they’re speaking about a man, the growth of an entire region, and the actual juice that’s in the bottle. It’s impossible to separate the three. Angelo Gaja (pictured on the right) was an individual that forever changed the perception of Piemonte and Italian wine on the global market. Largely taking over his family estate in 1961, Angelo recognized the international disinterest in fine Italian wine and he began a journey of reinventing the vinous identity of his home village of Barbaresco and the nation as a whole.

Early on, there were a few key innovations that Gaja is largely recognized as pioneering in his region. Firstly, he dramatically lowered vineyard yields across his properties to focus on developing intense concentration at the cost of of overall volume. Neighbors considered him crazy for shaving off substantial quantity in his production until they finally tasted the wines. Secondly, he began bottling wines according to the Burgundian practice of single-vineyard crus, in order to compel the broader wine community with the expressions of place he knew to be lingering beneath the surface of the Gaja label. In the cellar Gaja also begain experimenting with temperature controlled fermentation in stainless steel, shorter maceration times, and judicious use of French barriques to increase the aromatic freshness of the wines, soften Nebbiolo’s aggressive tannins, and provide additional richness and complexity.
Feeling confident in his new approach to both vineyard management and winemaking, Gaja began to launch his wines with pricing that far exceeded the typical norms of his region. The goal here was to match the quality in the bottle with a price normally only justified for some of the top wines in the world. Initial reactions were extreme and polarizing. Some consumers exited their loyalties and others began to trulty appreciate the efforts of a man possessed. Today these wines are internationally recognized as being some of the very finest that Italy can offer on a par with the Grand Crus of Burgundy and the First-Growths of Bordeaux.

The family has expanded their holdings over the years into the broader region of Tuscany and elsewhere. French varietals have been planeted to produce wines that can compete against any style globally and showcase the tour de force that is every Gaja label.

Today the winery is on it’s fifth generation of talent with Angelo’s children Gaia Gaja, Rossana Gaja, and Giovanni Gaja leading the charge as the face of the brand and the continuation of excellence. Drinking a bottle of Gaja is a magical and luxury experience that should be both savored and frequented as often as possible. Fortunately we have a large number of Gaja bottlings available now of both perfectly aged and younger vintages. These are simply not the kind of bottles you want to pass on.
 

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Wines On Sale Now from Gaja:

Gaja Sori San Lorenzo Langhe-Barbaresco 2017 750ml, Displayed Price: $499, that’s $474.05 at 5% off and $449.10 at 10% off, 1 bottles available now
Wine Spectator 96 points “This tightly wound red is dense with black cherry, black currant, plum, tar and iron flavors as well as tannins. Shows a lot of power and persistence, with all the components in the right proportion, ending with a long, resonant aftertaste. Needs time. Best from 2024 through 2048. 300 cases imported. — BS”
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The 2017 growing season saw a couple of violent hail events in the Barbaresco appellation, and this celebrated vineyard suffered some damage during a storm that hit on July 19th. Yields were reduced, but the wine holds its own thanks to the careful fruit selection process put in place by the Gaja family. Their 2017 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo is a shade richer in terms of flavor concentration, as is always the case with fruit from this slightly warmer growing site. However, like the other two single-vineyard Barbaresco expressions, this wine reveals a thin, sharp and nervous personality that is driven in large part by tannic firmness and acidity. Sorì San Lorenzo adds lots of dark mineral definition to cassis, wild cherry, rose and Provence herbs. Like the other wines, it needs extra cellar aging time.”
Decanter 95 points “This is generally the most austere of the three Gaja single-vineyard wines, and it has also been described as ‘wilder’. In this vintage the nose does seem to have more weight than Sori Tildin, with rich raspberry and cherry aromas. It’s sumptuous, full-bodied and concentrated, with considerable density and weight. Despite its youthful chewiness, it’s still polished and balanced, with a very long finish. Drinking Window 2021 – 2042.”

Gaja Sito Moresco Rosso Langhe 2021 750ml, Displayed Price: $64.50, that’s $61.27 at 5% off and $58.05 at 10% off,  6 bottles available now
Importer Note “A beautiful violet color atypical of Nebbiolo but reflective of the 2021 vintage where fullness and richness are even present to the eye. The wine has bold notes of blackberry, cherry, blood orange, and bergamot with a touch of flintiness. Medium-structured with lots of juiciness and harmony on the palate all lead to well-balanced acidity and tannin structure with a long finish.”

Gaja Dagromis, Barolo 2019 750ml, Displayed Price: $108, that’s $102.60 at 5% off and $97.20 at 10% off, 5 bottles available now
Winery Note “2019 Dagromis has a garnet color with violet highlights. On the nose, this wine showcases floral and fruity notes of violet, cherry, plum, sweet licorice, ginger, and marzipan. On the palate, delicate showing juicy, cherry-like mouthfeel leads to a savory, yet sweet entry with a subtle tannin structure all characteristics of the vintage. This is a classic Barolo with great aging potential.”

Gaja Pieve Santa Restituta ‘Sugarille’, Brunello 2018 750ml, Displayed Price: $219, that’s $208.05 at 5% off and $197.10 at 10% off, 5 bottles available now
Wine Spectator 95 points “A dark, brooding 2018, with accents of smoke, vanilla, iron and tar surrounding a core of cherry and plum flavors. Reveals balsamic elements of eucalyptus and wild herbs on the lingering finish. On the austere side now, with a core of fruit and mineral. Best from 2025 through 2043.”

Gaja Pieve Santa Restituta, Brunello 2018 750ml, Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 5 bottles available now
Wine & Spirits 92 points “This is the most high-toned of Gaja’s three 2018 Brunellos, a portion of the fruit coming from the Torrenieri vineyard in Montalcino’s cooler northeastern corner. Hints of oregano and citrus peel accent the tangy red cherry flavors, with lingering hints of smoke and spice on the finish.”

Gaja Pieve Santa Restituta ‘Rennina’, Brunello 2018 750ml, Displayed Price: $199, that’s $189.05 at 5% off and $179.10 at 10% off, 5 bottles available now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Harmonious and bordering on creamy in texture, this red features cherry, raspberry, plum, loam, almond and black pepper aromas and flavors. Reveals pleasant bitterness as this winds down on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2026 through 2045.”
 
Gaja Darmagi Langhe Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 750ml, Displayed Price: $219, that’s $208.05 at 5% off and $197.10 at 10% off, 1 bottles available now
Wine Advocate 94 points “Darmagi loves a warm vintage. The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Darmagi embraces the summer warmth like a happy sponge. This wine is faithfully true to the variety, with intensely dark fruit followed by dried cassis, exotic spice and green laurel leaf. There is a point of succulent sweetness in the mouth that is uniquely specific to this hot vintage. The wine is seamless and smooth in texture with solid structure on the close. The vines suffered from stripe disease (GLSD). This reduced the capacity of the plant’s foliar system. Gaia Gaja tells me they were able to harvest from the healthy parts of the vines to make this beautiful wine.”

Gaja Darmagi Langhe Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ml, Displayed Price: $219, that’s $208.05 at 5% off and $197.10 at 10% off, 2 bottles available now
Vinous 94+ points “The 2017 Darmagi (Cabernet Sauvignon) is gorgeous. Ample, silky and voluptuous to its core, Darmagi offers tons of immediacy and sheer appeal. Today, the 2017 is all about fruit richness and texture. Readers who prefer to see a full range of Cabernet aromatics should plan on cellaring the 2017 for at least a few years. Hints of blackberry jam, mocha, licorice and spice linger, but more than anything else, the 2017 is all about flamboyance. This is an especially strong vintage.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “While a base Langhe release, the 2017 Darmagi is stunning stuff, offering a killer bouquet of ripe red and black fruits, hot asphalt, spring flowers, tobacco, and a touch of rocky, earhty minerality. With a rich, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, a more supple, upfront style, and sweet tannins, it already offers loads of pleasure, yet its solid spine of tannins and acidity make me believe it will still be drinking nicely in 15-20 years.”