Category Archives: Newsletter Archive

Produttori in August Sale 8-24-24

“I’ve written this many times before, but it bears repeating: Produttori del Barbaresco is one of Italy’s ultimate values for your money.” –Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
 
Produttori del Barbaresco:
 
The OG Cult Wine of Portland
 
Produttori del Barbaresco is revered for producing classically-styled Barbaresco and Riservas of uncompromising quality and transparency. You’d be hard-pressed to find such consistent quality and complexity out of such an extensive range of single-vineyard Nebbiolos anywhere else.
 
Oregon was the first state to import the wines, and they’ve been beloved by many for decades. We’ve admired the producer and its director, Aldo Vacca (cousin of the late Renato Vacca of Cantina del Pino), since the shop first opened. We’ve pleased to continue to offer some of Barbaresco’s finest line up. These still offer incredible value for the money, especially on our three-day sale.
 
“…The 2019 Riservas show a good amount of vineyard definition, but they are also marked by a strong, somber, brooding quality… I imagine the 2019s will require a measure of patience.” — Antonio Galloni, Vinous
 
“[Produttori del Barbaresco is] one of the most important and quality-minded co-operatives in the world…” – Jeb Dunnuck
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Produttori del Barbaresco
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Produttori del Barbaresco
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Sale ends Tuesday, August 27th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer twenty-eight Produttori del Barbaresco wines on our three-day sale now, including:
 
Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco DOCG 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $54.50, that’s $51.78 at 5% off and $49.05 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco DOCG 2016 1.5L Displayed Price: $119, that’s $113.05 at 5% off and $107.10 at 10% off, 3 magnums in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2016 Barbaresco is a tight and beautiful wine that will require more time to unwind and soften. This beautifully balanced vintage is characterized by a tight inner core of fruit that underlines the graceful aging capacity of these wines. The 2016 is shaping up to be one destined for long cellar aging. Now in its youth, the wine offers wild berry, rose and licorice aromas.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $48.50, that’s $46.08 at 5% off and $43.65 at 10% off, 20 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94-95 points “There is a more pronounced mineral and delicately spiced character to the 2019 Barbaresco, with notes of wet asphalt and kirsch and vibrant purity. It has elegant concentration, with fine coiled tannins in its hints of tea leaves, bergamot, and ripe wild raspberry, and has a more pronounced structure, This is a fantastic expression. Drink 2024-2040.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Asili, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 23 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Asili is a very pretty, silky wine that shows all the signatures of this site in its refined, mid-weight personality. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, cedar, mint and tobacco all grace this classy Barbaresco. The 2019 is classic Asili, with firm tannins from the year.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 1.5L Was $179, Displayed Price: $159, that’s $151.05 at 5% off and $143.10 at 10% off, 6 magnums in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is darkly concentrated and among the richest wines in this series of single-vineyard Riservas. Montestefano is angular, textured and bold with dark fruit aromas, dried blackberry, toasted almond and cured tobacco. With this vintage, you get an age-worthy wine that offers brawn and power for drinking in the medium term, but it will become increasingly silky and slender with time. Dusty tannins and crushed stone appear on the long finish. There were 14,486 bottles produced.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 13 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 1.5L Displayed Price: $179, that’s $170.05 at 5% off and $161.10 at 10% off, 3 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 95 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is perhaps the most complete of the 2019 Riservas at this stage. It offers fine depth, plenty of tannin and nascent emerging inner sweetness to tie it all together. A wine of stature and textural depth, the Montestefano is my early favorite in this lineup.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $85, that’s $80.75 at 5% off and $76.50 at 10% off, 28 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93+ points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico is one of the most searingly tannic wines in the range. Readers will have to be patient with the 2019, as it is going to need time. As always, Montefico is a Barbaresco built on linear intensity more than size. In 2019, the qualities are quite accented. Time in the glass opens the bouquet nicely, but the 2019 remains quite closed.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 24 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “Like most of the wines in this lineup, the 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is quite potent. A rush of raspberry jam, wild flowers, white pepper and mint make a strong opening statement. Succulent and yet also structured, the Muncagota has so much to offer. It should be one of the first wines in this range to start opening up, although when that will happen exactly is hard to say.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $79, that’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off, 20 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “Balsamic notes of juniper, eucalyptus and pine align with floral, cherry and black currant flavors in this supple, well-structured red. Balanced and long, with a lingering aftertaste of rose, cherry and mineral. Best from 2024 through 2043. —B.S.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 750ml Displayed Price: $79, that’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 points “The Produttori’s 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is all power, tension and nerve. Even so, the 2013 is remarkably civilized and much less austere than young Ovello Barbarescos usually are. Scents of cranberry, white pepper and mint give the wine its signature high-toned aromatics. The Ovello has a Volnay-like purity to its fruit, with Nebbiolo tannins and structure, of course. If that sounds appealing, well, it is. Vivid, sculpted and impossibly beautiful, the Ovello is simply magnificent.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ml Was $85, Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 28 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 1.5L Displayed Price: $159, that’s $151.05 at 5% off and $143.10 at 10% off, 6 magnums in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94+ points “One of the bigger productions (with 17,744 bottles) in the Produttori del Barbaresco’s portfolio is the 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello. All of the Riservas in this vintage are characterized by especially exuberant and bold aromas, and this bottle is a prime example. Cassis, wild cherry, tobacco, rusty nail and licorice build intensity. The wine is tapered and silky in texture, but it also offers a good amount of power (and 15% alcohol) to carry it through the aging process.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 29 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 1.5L Displayed Price: $179, that’s $170.05 at 5% off and $161.10 at 10% off, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is powerful, savory and intensely linear, in classico Ovello style, and yet it appears to have enough fruit behind its imposing tannins to develop well over the coming years. In this tasting, the Ovello feels pretty closed post bottling, but its inherent balance and qualities are there. Clean saline notes extend the finish in promising fashion.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Paje’, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Pajè is impressive on all fronts, but especially in terms of aromas. There’s so much brightness here with red and purple fruits, rust and a dark note of clove or exotic spice. No element is out of place, but together they help to build the intensity of this balanced wine. It shows a soft, velvety texture, and perhaps there is a little more ripeness overall in this warm vintage. Production is 6,666 bottles.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Paje’, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Pajè is full of character. Strong mineral, savory and floral notes jump out of the glass, before veins of tannin make themselves felt on the palate. A powerful, young Barbaresco, the Pajè is going to need a number of years to come into its own. That said, all of its signatures are very much present. “
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 750ml Displayed Price: $66, that’s $62.70 at 5% off and $59.40 at 10% off, 29 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a dark, sensual beauty. Deeply spiced and balsamic, with tremendous textural richness, the Pora is utterly beguiling. I can’t remember a Pora with this much depth, textural resonance and brooding intensity. The 2014 needs at least a few years to be at its best, but it is superb even in the early going. I won’t be surprised if the 2014 turns out to be better than this note suggests.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ml Displayed Price: $66, that’s $62.70 at 5% off and $59.40 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Underbrush, wild herb and dark-skinned-berry aromas form the nose along with a whiff of camphor. On the firm, structured palate, tightly knit but noble tannins offset dried Marasca cherry, cranberry, orange zest and star anise. Tense and youthfully austere, it needs a few years to unwind. Drink 2022–2027.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ml Was $79, Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Pora (with 13,333 bottles released) is usually the first wine I taste each year when I review this set of Riservas from Produttori del Barbaresco. That’s because it usually appears as the most delicate, and the intensity of each successive bottle increases after this one. But these schematics are a bit more difficult to align in a hot and dry vintage such as this that produced richer and more succulent fruit across the board. The Pora is redolent of red and purple fruit with a little more blackberry and plum compared to previous editions. The tannic strength of the wine is also more elaborate. Pora works very well in 2017.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $79, that’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off, 22 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a pretty tightly wound wine, certainly moreso than is typically the case for this Barbaresco, which is often much more engaging in the early going. Dried herbs, tobacco, cedar and earthiness lend notable savory nuance in this decidedly nervy, somber Pora. There’s good fruit intensity and plenty of character that makes me want to revisit this in a few months’ time.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ml Was $89, Displayed Price: $74.50, that’s $70.78 at 5% off and $67.05 at 10% off, 19 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 1.5L Was $189, Displayed Price: $169, that’s $160.55 at 5% off and $152.10 at 10% off, 6 magnums in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96+ points “The Produttori del Barbaresco 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is another spectacular release from this cooperative winery that hits it out of the ballpark with each set of new releases. That impressive track record includes this wine that delivers extreme focus, depth and integrity. The bouquet is very clear cut with dark cherry, tart plum, spice and blood orange, but it is also complex and fluid. It offers new perspectives with each swirl of the glass. From a hot vintage, the Rabajà is smooth, powerful and balanced. I would bet on long aging for this bottle. 14,438 bottles were produced.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 32 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 1.5L Displayed Price: $199, that’s $189.05 at 5% off and $179.10 at 10% off, 3 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is redolent of dark fruit, crushed rocks, graphite, sage, menthol and lavender all race across the palate, supported by bracing, young Rabajà tannins that make themselves felt. This mid-weight, powerhouse Barbaresco packs quite a punch.”
 
Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $85, that’s $80.75 at 5% off and $76.50 at 10% off, 13 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo is quite deep in this vintage, with notable depth in its dark-toned fruit. This is an especially powerful Rio Sordo that is still coming together. Its intensity is palpable, even if I see less of the finesse that I associate with wines from this site. Today, all of the wine’s energy is directed inwards.”
 
Shop our twenty-eight Produttori del Barbaresco selections on sale now on our webstore!


 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
 
Dr. Bürklin-Wolf
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Bürklin-Wolf
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Bürklin-Wolf
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Vajra sale ends Saturday, August 24th at 9 am Pacific. Dr. Bürklin-Wolf sale ends Sunday, August 25th at 9 am Pacific.

Vinopolis Newsletter 8-23-24

 In This Newsletter:


Special Arrivals
Domaine Dagueneau

New Arrivals
Beaux Freres, Pax Muhle, Falkenstein, and more!

New Close-Out Wine Sale
Value pricing for two of our favorite wineries

The New World, Elevated
High Altitude Wines in North America
Special Arrivals


Domaine Didier Dagueneau
 

“Tasting a Dagueneau wine for the first time was a revelation. His Sauvignon Blancs had an unexpected purity and clarity to them. The flavors were intense but nuanced. It wasn’t the fruit that was piercing, as in so many Sauvignon Blancs, but the freshness and the focus. As powerful a personality as he was, his wines did not exalt the stature of the winemaker so much as the beauty of the terroir.” –Polaner Imports
 
Didier Dagueneau was known as a man who always flew close to the Sun and never succumbed to danger. Instead, he laughed at it, in fact ran towards it. So of course after stints as a professional motorcycle racer and dog sledder, among many other dangerous pursuits, he became a winemaker.
 
As the Loire wine industry’s premier enfant terrible, Didier pushed boundaries and adopted many radical practices that are almost taken for granted these days. Organic viticulture, sans-souffre winemaking, own-rooted vineyards, and natural fermentations? Didier did it all before it was cool.
 
Although his untimely death left a gaping hole in French wine, his son Louis Benjamin took on the family business without missing a beat, in fact surpassing Didier in some critic’s eyes and bringing Loire wines to new heights.
 
Arriving Today
 
Dagueneau Buisson-Renard, Loire, Vin de France 2018 750ml $139 special, 6 bottles available
Vinous 93 Points “Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There’s even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you’re not in a hurry…”
 
Dagueneau Silex, Loire, Vin de France 2020 750ml $185 special, 3 bottles available
Vinous 93-94 Points “While this was a warm season leading to richness in many wines from the region, the Silex 2020 shows ripe fruit, but there’s no sense of being overblown. The fine line that races through many wines relying on flint-based parcels is there, carrying the nectarine and oak-derived vanilla flavors, but its influence never tips into austerity nor firmness. There’s a sense of tenderness that runs through its core while remaining light in body.”
 
Arriving next Friday, August 30th
 
Dagueneau ‘Blanc etc,’ Loire, Vin de France 2019 750ml $99 special, 6 bottles available
The 2019 bottling of this wine was not reviewed, more recent vintage provided for reference.
Vinous 93 Points “The 2020 Blanc etc. is developing into a mellow style with the richness of the vintage showing. It is what the French would call gourmand and, close to three years after being harvested, has entered a delectable stage of its evolution. Yes, it’s still young but has improved and opened up since tasting a year ago. It now offers baked apple, honey and pastry flavors while retaining freshness. It is long and concentrated with a firm sense of structure, doing the mouth equivalent of providing a firm, reassuring handshake, likely due to the clay-flint soils, which make up two-thirds of the blend.”
 
Dagueneau Les Jardins de Babylone Sec, Jurancon, France 2019 750ml $99 special, 3 bottles available
Polaner Imports Note “100% Petit Manseng. Dagueneau makes a limited number of bottles of dry wine from these beloved Jurancon hectares. The aim is to produce a wine that brings out the natural minerality of the soil and have balance, harmony and longevity. Concentrated, racy and extremely memorable.”
 
Dagueneau Buisson-Renard, Loire, Vin de France 2019 750ml $149 special, 3 bottles available
Vinous 92 Points “The Buisson Renard tends to be a more supple, more aromatically restrained cuvée in the Dagueneau stable, and the 2019 is no different. It’s probably the richer clay soils on this section of the domaine. There’s a delicate savory, herbal and oak-derived nutty character. It is fine and fresh with a supple texture that holds the mouth like a gentle embrace.”
 
New Arrivals
 

Oregon
 
Beaux Freres
 

“In the summer of 1986, my young family and I began on a journey that, in our wildest optimism, never thought Beaux Frères and our Oregon wine industry would be on the center stage with the fine wine industry. I believe our success is a lesson for anyone with a dream: follow your heart.” –Michael G. Etzel, Founder and CEO
 
Who doesn’t love Beaux Freres? After nearly 40 years in operation, they are still among the finest estates in the Willamette Valley, with generations of winemakers and winery owners who got their starts working with the Etzel clan.
 
As if that legacy were not enough, they present this wine, Les Cousins, as a gift to us: a low-priced mystery blend of Beaux Freres’ Estate barrels. This is a crazy bargain next to Beaux Frere’s single vineyard wines that run at roughly three times the price!
 
 HOT DEAL!  Beaux Freres ‘Les Cousins’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, USA 2022 750ml $36 special, 24 bottles available
 
Lowest Price in the USA
Average Price is $40
 

California
 
Pax Muhle
 
One of the finest producers of Syrah in the United States, Pax has bucked the old trends of flabby, over-ripened reds in favor of freshness, balance, and savory elements. It is the herbaceous qualities of these syrahs that has made them a favorite around Vinopolis. In particular, they are fantastic with lamb, steak salads, and pretty much anything with grill marks. Delicious!
 
These are the best prices for these wines on the West Coast!
 
Pax The Bench Vineyard Syrah, Clements Hills, USA 2022 750ml $31.90 special, 12 bottles available
Vinous 92 Points “The 2022 Syrah The Bench Vineyard is a joyous, explosive wine. A burst of dark red/purplish fruit, mocha, lavender and spice saturates the palate. This is an especially forward, juicy style for Pax. There’s gorgeous immediacy here. The 2022 was done with 100% stems and aged in neutral oak.”
 
Pax Sonoma Hillsides Syrah, Russian River Valley, USA 2022 750ml $59 special, 12 bottles available
Vinous 94+ Points “The 2022 Syrah Sonoma Hillsides is a blend of several sites. Aging in cement helps retain a good bit of freshness, and that gives this wine quite a different feel from the other Syrahs, all of which are aged in neutral oak. The 2022 doesn’t have the immediacy or flashiness of the very best years, or of the other Syrahs in the range, but readers who can wait will find a wine of magnificent pedigree.”
 

Italy
 
Proprieta Sperino
 
Paolo di Marchi was a pioneering winemaker who revitalized two Italian wine regions. He first gained fame in Tuscany, revitalizing Chianti, and later returned to his family’s winery in Piedmont to rehabilitate it using techniques he’d learned in Tuscany. Today, Proprieta Sperino, his family’s winery, produces high-quality wines that reflect both the region’s unique character and his modern winemaking approach.
 
Proprieta Sperino Vigna Cova Riserva Lessona, Piedmont, Italy 2015 750ml $139 special, 12 bottles available
Vinous 96 Points “The 2015 Lessona Riserva Vigna Cova is one of the very best wines I have tasted from Proprietà Sperino. It embodies everything Lessona and Alto Piemonte can be. The aromatics alone are simply beguiling. But the 2015 has plenty of textural depth and body too. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2015 will take readers on a fabulous ride. Superb.”
 
This is the lowest price in the United States by far!
Average price is $160
 

Germany
 
 
For a Few Falkensteins more…
 
These Rieslings have been moving fast! We are down to the final bottles. Reminder: we will not be receiving any more Falkenstein until next year!
 
Falkenstein Ternesen Euchariusberg Marlies Kabinett AP14, Mosel, Germany 2023 750ml $33 special, 4 bottles available
Mosel Fine Wines 94 Points “This wine offers a beautiful nose of peach sorbet, slate, elderflower, citrusy fruits, and whipped cream. It proves superbly precise and balanced on the palate and leaves a gorgeously finely chiseled feel of fruits and minerals in the finish. The aftertaste is racy, engaging, and hugely persistent.”
 
Falkenstein Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Kabinett Mia Alte Reben AP22, Mosel, Germany 2023 750ml $49 special, 4 bottles available
Mosel Fine Wines 94+ Points “This offers a stunning nose of elderflower, mint, pear, citrusy elements, starfruit, and smoke. The wine offers a great feel of green herbs and fine spices on the racy yet delicately smooth palate and leaves an incredibly vibrating feel in the long and juicy finish. This is a stunning Kabinett in the making!”
 
Falkenstein Krettnacher Ober Schafershaus Riesling Spatlese Trocken Manni AP18, Mosel, Germany 2023 750ml $39 special, 6 bottles available
 
Falkenstein Krettnacher Altenberg Spatlese Trocken AP7 Mosel, Germany 2023 2023 750ml $34.50 special, 5 bottles available
Mosel Fine Wines 92 Points “It offers a beautiful and superbly finely chiseled nose of mirabelle, greengage, smoke, and citrusy elements. The wine is superbly light-footed yet packed with flavors on the zesty palate. It leaves a great sense of minerals and subtle fruits in the long finish.”
 
Falkenstein Krettnacher Euchariusberg Riesling Spatlese Klaus Lang AP6, Mosel, Germany 2023 750ml $39 special, 3 bottles available
Mosel Fine Wines 94 Points “This offers a beautiful nose of bitter lemon, mint, white peach, cream, and smoke. It proves beautifully creamy yet focused on the palate and leaves a gorgeous, slightly earthy feel in the long finish. Citrusy and minty elements add to the pleasure in the long and lingering finish.”
 
New Close-out Sales
 
 
Saint Cosme
 
WAS $59
Saint Cosme Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France 2018 750ml $45 special, 25 bottles available
Vinous 93 Points “Brilliant violet. Pungent red berry and cherry aromas are complemented by emerging floral and succulent herb nuances. Alluringly sweet and juicy on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry and candied lavender flavors that deepen through the back half. Finishes supple, spicy and long, with lingering floral and cherry notes and gentle tannic grip.”
 
Lowest price in the USA BY FAR.
Average price $65
 
WAS $59
Saint Cosme Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France 2019 750ml $49 special, 36+ bottles available
But the savings don’t end there…
WAS $349
CASE-6 of Saint Cosme Chateauneuf du Pape 2019 $279 special, 4 six-packs available
(You save 2 dollars per bottle!)
WAS $799
CASE-12 of Saint Cosme Chateauneuf du Pape 2019 $528 special, 3 twelve-packs available
(You save 5 dollars per bottle!)
Wine Spectator 93 Points “Modern and stylish, offering an engaging mix of raspberry puree, warm baking spices and red licorice, with vanilla highlights. A beam of iron minerality brings shape and balance to this version, while invigorating acidity and tannins drive the energy. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Cinsault. Drink now through 2035.”
 
 
Evesham Wood
 
WAS $51.90
Evesham Wood Le Puits Sec Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills, USA 2021 750ml $44.50 special, 36+ bottles available
Eric Guido-Vinous 94 Points “What a beauty! The 2021 Pinot Noir Le Puits Sec blossoms in the glass with a gorgeous mix of dusty violets and roses complemented by autumnal spice, giving way to citrus-tinged wild berries. This sweeps across the palate with finesse, lifted and ethereal, with shades of blue and purple inner florals accentuating dark red fruits. It finishes long and hauntingly floral with a tactile mineral crunch and coating of gently grippy tannins. For lovers of old-school Oregon Pinot, the 2021 is dreamy.”
 
Lowest Price in the USA
 
WAS $41.90
Evesham Wood La Grive Bleue Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, USA 2022 750ml $36 special, 36+ bottles available
Winery Note “While more savory than the Eola-Amity Hills Cuvee, this wine offeres fresh flowers (running from violets and jasmine to roses) atop cosmic crisp apples and blueberry compote. The very discrete fruits are balanced by fine tannins nicely punctuated with acid.”
 
Lowest Price in the USA
 
 
 
High Altitude Wines in North America
 

The world is getting hotter.
 
We are now living in an era of 14% Willamette Pinot Noirs and 15.5% California Cabernet. While viticultural and winemaking techniques can help alleviate this problem, some cooler climate regions have a natural advantage providing fresher, lower alcohol vintages even as temperatures rise.
 
So let’s take a gander at some of America’s natural cool spots: high elevation and mountain vineyards. At higher elevations, the temperature drops, creating lower sugar concentrations and higher acid.
 
Mt Brave
 
Mount Veeder is the coldest of Napa’s growing regions, ensuring naturally small yields of thick-skinned, high acid grapes that produce racy and lithe wines. At a staggering 1,800 feet above sea level, Mount Brave Vineyard is located above the fog zone of the Napa Valley, which means that despite low temperatures, the grapes receive enough extra sunlight in the mornings to provide the concentrated flavors that Napa is famous for.
 
Mt. Brave Malbec, Mount Veeder, USA 2016 750ml $79 special, 8 bottles available
Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points “The 2016 Malbec Mt. Veeder is another fabulous wine from winemaker Chris Carpenter. It offers a vibrant, focused, savory style in its blue fruits, graphite, and lead pencil aromatics, and has a concentrated, layered style on the palate. It’s a complex, age-worthy Malbec that will evolve for over a decade.”
 
Mt Brave Malbec, Mount Veeder, USA 2018 750ml $79 special, 4 bottles available
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 95 Points ” …Deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is flamboyantly scented of baked plums, blackberry compote and blueberry coulis with wafts of baking spices and dried Provence herbs. Full-bodied, the palate is packed with concentrated black and blue fruits, supported by firm, grainy tannins, going long, lively and with a spicy kick on the finish.”
 
 
La Jota
 
Much like Mount Veeder, Howell Mountain receives extra sunshine by sitting above the Napa Valley’s fog line, but the region is also much warmer and drier, providing full-bodied wines with deep, dark fruit notes in addition to savory spice characteristics.
 
La Jota Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain, USA 2018 750ml $128 special, just 1 bottle available
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 97 Points “A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain was aged for 22 months in oak barrels, 84% new … Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and tons of freshness, finishing long and fragrant.”
 
 
La Jota Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Howell Mountain, USA 2019 750ml $119 special, 11 bottles available
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 93 Points ” …Medium to full-bodied, silky, fine and elegant, this is a perennial favorite, drinkable on release and for a decade or more afterward.”
 
La Jota Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain, USA 2019 750ml $169 special, 14 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 Points “A Rush of black cherry, blackberry, licorice, spice and menthol builds into the huge finish. This is a fabulous vintage for the La Jota Cabernet.”
 
La Jota Vineyard Merlot, Howell Mountain, USA 2019 750ml $99 special, 15 bottles available
James Suckling 95 Points “Lots of black olives with some conifer and mushrooms. Raspberries, too. Full-bodied with soft and round tannins. Really savory. Juicy.”
 
La Jota Vineyard W. S. Keyes Chardonnay, Howell Mountain, USA 2020 750ml $109 special, 6 bottles available
No review available for the 2020 vintage. 2019 review provided for reference.
Antonio Galloni-Wine Advocate 93 Points “Medium-bodied, this is a crisp, lean and focused effort that retains a pleasantly silky feel and plenty of length.”
 
Lowest non-auction listing in the USA
 
 
Failla Wines
 
In their conquest to produce wine from all the best cool-climate sites on the west coast, Failla does not tie itself to one vineyard, region, or even state. Their estate vineyard located in Fort Ross-Seaview, a 1400 foot tall ridge located just miles from the Pacific Ocean. The terroir here provides excellent minerality and salinity, creating wines with serious umami and savory character.
 
Failla Estate Vineyard Syrah, Fort Ross-Seaview, USA 2021 750ml $59 special, 7 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 Points “The 2019 Syrah Estate Vineyard is an elegant supremely classy wine. Sage tobacco mint black pepper and lavender lead into a core of beautifully layered dark blue/purplish fruit. Silky and polished the Estate Syrah is an absolute delight to taste. I loved it.”
 
Hirsch Vineyard, a vineyard perched 1500 feet above the Sonoma coast, abuts the San Andreas fault, providing a patchwork of soil types and creating exceptionally distinguished and complex wines.
 
Failla Hirsch Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, USA 2021 750ml $84.50 special, 12 bottles available
Jeb Dunnuck 98 Points “The 2021 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard is gorgeous, with a floral perfume of fresh roses, raspberry eau de vie, fresh coniferous herbs, and spice. Medium-bodied, this stunning wine has wonderful transparency, with fine sweet tannins, ripe red berries, and fresh flowers. It’s fabulous, mineral-laced texture lasts for days, and while it will certainly have serious longevity, it’s irresistible now.”
 
Next Week: we travel to South America and the highest altutude vineyards in the Americas!
 
 

Paging Dr. Burklin-Wolf to the Salesfloor! 8-22-24

Dr. Burklin-Wolf
 
Your Three-Day Discount Starts Now
 
The German wine region the Pfalz is nestled between the Haardt Mountains and the Rhine River. Here, in a veritable oasis of forests and hills, one finds evidence of wine making and consumption dating back to 550 BCE. The region’s conditions make for some of the most interesting and diverse expressions of German wine, with dry Riesling being its crown jewel.
 
It’s an open secret that dry German Riesling is one of the most complex white wines in the world, yet is also one of the most undervalued. There exist today some historic and well-respected producers that can turn heads and hearts without turning your wallet inside-out. One such estate is the innovative Dr. Burklin-Wolf.
 
The estate of Dr. Burklin-Wolf is a fixture in the Pfalz. Its quality and prestige has been lauded for centuries. This family-owned operation that dates back over 400 years could be satisfied to rest of their well-deserved laurels. But fortunately for us, they don’t.
 
Helmed since 1990 by Bettina Bürklin-von Guradze, she has only improved an already incredible winery. She oversaw the conversion to biodynamics and the shift to exclusively using estate-grown fruit.
 
Today the winery’s “Chef de Culture” Jan Hock manages 86 hectares including over a dozen different top vineyard sites in the region, all biodynamically. All bottlings regardless of premier cru (which the winery refers to as P.C.) or grand cru (G.C.) are crafted exclusively from handpicked, estate grapes. In the cellar, the wines receive detailed attention from Bürklin-von Guradze’s winemaker, Nicola Libelli. Libelli trained under the previous long-term winemaker, Fritz Knorr, who passed away suddenly in 2012. Skurnik describes Libelli as “young but extremely passionate and driven.” In keeping with Knorr’s legacy, Libelli employs natural fermentation and ages the wines in a combination of stainless steel and old oak casks. When selecting the casks for aging each wine, he is careful so as to ensure balance and to retain the character of the wines.
 
The results are wines of nuanced texture, thrilling acidity, and uncompromisingly unique character across different sites. These wines are peers of the Great biodynamic estates of France such as Lafite, Latour, and DRC in nearly every metric except price. Try to name one of their estate wines that runs for under $20. And stock your cellar with these incredible values.
 
“…this may well be the best and most consistent producer of great dry Riesling in the world.” –Joel Payne, Vinous
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Burklin-Wolf
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Burklin-Wolf
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Sale ends Sunday, August 25th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer nine Burklin-Wolf wines on our three-day sale now, including:
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Estate Riesling Trocken 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $19.50, that’s $18.53 at 5% off and $17.55 at 10% off, 20 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 92 points “Open pear and reine-claude plum nose with delicate baking-spice aromas!. Generous and well-structured palate with a long, refreshing finish that’s supported nicely by a touch of chalky tannin. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Deidesheimer Riesling 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 93 points “Such a classic Pfalz dry riesling, with all the juiciness of the region, thanks to the ripe white-peach and guava aromas. Yet, there’s nothing loud about it at all. Real finesse and elegance, the animating acidity, subtle minerality and a touch of tannins melding together beautifully in the long, properly dry finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Burklin-Wolf Wachenheimer bottle at VinopolisDr. Burklin-Wolf Wachenheimer Riesling Trocken 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $18, that’s $17.10 at 5% off and $16.20 at 10% off, 32 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 92 points “Slightly funky (from wild ferment) but also great citrus, pear and peach aromas. Good concentration for a village wine with quite a linear profile. Very clean finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $38
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Wachenheimer Riesling Trocken 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 94 points “Generous stone-fruit and mandarin character, but there’s nothing demonstrative about this! Likewise, the serious chalky structure sits in the medium to full body in a very relaxed way. Then comes the very long, elegant finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Wachenheimer Goldbachel P.C. Riesling Trocken 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 4 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 94 points “An immediately attractive, elegant dry white that’s got a wonderful interplay between juicy stone-fruit character and very bright, refreshing acidity that drives the long, delicately chalky finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Ruppertsberger Hoheburg P.C. Riesling Trocken 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 6 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92+ points “Of the total of 20 hectares of vines in this Ruppertsberg top site, Bürklin holds 4.68 hectares. Located at the foot of the Mittelhaardt on red and white sandstone, the premier cru benefits from favorable microclimatic advantages. The 2021 Ruppertsberger Hoheburg P.C. is intense but also coolish and clear, with cold, gravelly notes intertwined with ripe yellow apple aromas. Full-bodied, intense and textured yet structured by vivacious acidity and phenolic grip, this is a young and untamed dry Riesling with an intense, saline and still biting finish. 12.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork stopper. Tasted in November 2022.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Ruppertsberger Gaisböhl G.C. Riesling 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The Ruppertsberger 2020 Gaisböhl G.C. is very clear, dense and elegant on the citric, aromatic and concentrated nose that indicates mineral substance and healthy, ripe Riesling fruit. Pure and saline, with dense and concentrated ripe fruit (apples) and ripe phenolics, this is a full-bodied, refined and fresh, vital and mineral Rupperstberger Gaisböhl Riesling with a long, intense and substantial finish that reveals power that is turned into energy by tension-giving minerals. It’s a great, age-worthy Riesling and possibly the finest you can find from Ruppertsberg 12.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted in June 2023.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Ruppertsberger Gaisböhl G.C. Riesling 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 21 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 96 points “What a fragrant nose this has! Effusive Amalfi lemon and ripe yellow grapefruit aromas. Concentrated and beautifully balanced, this really stands out due to the finesse and polish on the generous palate. Long, silky finish in spite of healthy acidity. From biodynamically grown grapes. Vegan. Drink or hold.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Dr. Burklin-Wolf Reiterpfad G.C. Riesling 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 26 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott (Suckling) 96 points “This powerful dry white has an enormously expressive personality. The fine-grained minerality drives this very concentrated riesling along at a very brisk clip. Very intense and slightly austere finish. Great aging potential! From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
 
Shop our nine Burklin-Wolf selections on sale now on our webstore!


 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
Paitin
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Paitin
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Paitin
 
Cayuse
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Cayuse
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Cayuse
 
G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Paitin sale ends Friday, August 23rd at 9 am Pacific. Cayuse sale ends Saturday, August 24th at 9 am Pacific. Vajra sale ends Saturday, August 24th at 9 am Pacific.

Newsletter Vinopolis Newsletter 8-21-24

In This Newsletter


New Close-Out Sales:

New Heights for Napa:
“To be considered for Bond Estates, each of these vineyards had to prove its excellence for no less than 10 vintages.”

Also featuring…

Grand Cru and Premier Cru wines
from Domaine Roumier, and Domaine Rousseau

Featured Close-Out of the Day
Ultra rare Grand Cru offering from our fave Champagne House
All New Close-Out Wine Sale
 
 
United States
 
Bond Estates
 


“Critics say Napa has an ego. But what it really has is a gargantuan appetite for life and a palpable hunger for success.” -Karen MacNeill, The Wine Bible.
 
Ego or not, the wines of Bond Estates are made to last. Bill Harlan, the owner, thinks in the long-term, having purchased his winery and vineyards to provide a legacy for his children and grandchildren while also preserving the character of the Napa Valley long into the future. It’s his “200 year plan.”
 
After he struck it big time with his first cult winery, Harlan Estates, Bill managed to catch lightning in a bottle twice with his second, Bond Estates. Focusing exclusively on single vineyard estate bottlings of his revered “Grand Crus:” Melbury, Pluribus, Quella, St. Eden, and Vecina. No one else has done as much for the concept of Cru-level terroir in Napa as Harlan. To be considered for Bond Estates, each of these vineyards had to prove its excellence for no less than 10 vintages. So far only 5% of Bill’s already exceptional vineyards have been up to snuff for his project.
 
Normally you would have to be part of the winery’s mile long waitlist for years to purchase these wines, but we have them for some of the lowest prices anywhere. Don’t wait long, though… we only have one bottle of each. Don’t miss out on this singular opportunity!

Vineyard Note “Since its debut with the 1999 vintage, the consistent hallmarks of Melbury have been plush red fruits (currants, bing cherries), redolent with spice and the scent of violets.” -Bond Estates

WAS $599
Bond Estates Melbury Red, Napa Valley, USA 2002 750ml $499 special, only 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 100 Points ” …the wine has an extraordinary aromatic profile of smoky meats intermixed with blackberry, crème de cassis, charcoal, lead pencil shavings and espresso. Dense, opulent and full-bodied, with terrific fruit, this is a showcase style of vintage for a wine of such great ripeness and massive intensity. This extraordinary effort displays oodles of glycerin and fabulous purity, while the oak has been completely absorbed.”
 
WAS $649
Bond Estates Melbury Red, Napa Valley, USA 2015 750ml $599 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 98 Points “The more time passes, the more I think Melbury may turn out to be one of the most complete wines in the BOND range … Blood orange, mint and floral notes add nuance to an unbelievably polished, refined Cabernet Sauvignon. Put simply, the 2015 Melbury is a total stunner and every bit as captivating as it was last year.”
 
WAS $819
Bond Estates Melbury Red, Napa Valley, USA 2018 750ml $599 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 98 Points ” …the 2018 is not a shy wine, it certainly has plenty of depth. Freshness, energy and verve are the signatures in a Cabernet that is all about intangibles. Hints of dark red cherry, tobacco, rose petal, mint and sweet spice emerge over time. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts.”

Vineyard Note “Pluribus, which debuted in the 2003 vintage, is defined as a bold, rich and concentrated wine; elements of dark plum, roasted coffee, and scents of cedar are inherent throughout the vintages.” -Bond Estates

WAS $819
Bond Estates Pluribus Red, Napa Valley, USA 2018 750ml $699 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 99 Points ” …Searing tannins, once such a challenge here, are much more finessed than in the past. Crushed rocks, mint, blood orange, gravel, exotic spice and rose petal lend tremendous complexity as the Pluribus shows off its considerable allure. This taut, mountain Cabernet Sauvignon has so much to offer. Today, it is wonderfully complete and thrilling. Even so, the best is yet to come.”

Winery Note “Making its debut with the 2006 vintage, the name is derived from the German word for a pristine source or an artesian aquifer … Quella displays an almost ethereal quality of blue fruits, graphite, and a vibrant, subtle finish.” -Bond Estates

WAS $649
Bond Estates Quella Red, Napa Valley, USA 2015 750ml $599 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 97 Points “The Quella is somber and brooding in 2015. Dark cherry, plum smoke, tobacco, leather, spice and scorched earth give the 2015 distinctive baritone inflections.”
 
WAS $819
Bond Estates Quella Red, Napa Valley, USA 2018 750ml $599 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 97 Points “The 2018 Quella is rich, ample and beautifully resonant in the glass. There’s terrific depth here and tons of class. Blood orange, game, licorice, tobacco, lavender and dried herbs give the Quella beguiling aromatic presence to play off its muscular, brooding personality.”

Vineyard Note “St. Eden, which appeared first in the 2001 vintage, reliably shows great focus, an opulent “sweet” center and notes of crème de cassis, dark chocolate, and roasted herbs. Mineral-tinged and broad on the palate, the wine consistently displays fine-grained tannins and a lush concentration.” -Bond Estates
 
WAS $549
Bond Estates St. Eden Red, Napa Valley, USA 2002 750ml $499 special, only 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 100 Points ” …showing incredible elements of cedarwood, licorice, chocolate and creme de cassis as well as exquisite texture, full-bodied intensity, and unbelievable purity and length. It is only the second vintage for this vineyard, leased by Bill Harlan for several decades, and it has turned out to be a killer Cabernet Sauvignon and a great classic of Napa. It should drink well for 20-25 years.”
 
WAS $699
Bond Estates St. Eden Red, Napa Valley, USA 2015 750ml $559 special, only 1 bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck 100 Points ” …boasts a saturated purple color and heavenly notes of blackcurrants, scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, and huge crushed rock-like minerality. It’s full-bodied, deep, and layered on the palate, with incredible concentration, yet it stays seamless, pure, and perfectly balanced.“
 
WAS $819
Bond Estates St. Eden Red, Napa Valley, USA 2018 750ml $619 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 97 Points “The 2018 St. Eden is impressive. Dense and powerful in the glass, the 2018 is done in a style that emphasizes freshness and vibrancy, reflecting a generational transition in all of these wines that is most apparent here. Dark fruit, licorice, mocha, spice and chocolate begin to emerge with time… “

Vineyard Notes “Vecina, which appeared with the 1999 vintage in the inaugural BOND release, is always powerful, intense and savory. Vecina’s other hallmarks are blackberry fruit, with wild forest floor and mineral associated overtones.” -Bond Estates

WAS $819
Bond Estates Vecina Red, Napa Valley, USA 2018 750ml $619 special, only 1 bottle available
Vinous 99 Points ” …Over the last two months the Vecina has acquired stunning aromatic presence to play off its deep, layered fruit. The 2018 is an absolute gem in the making.“
 
 

France
 
Domaine Roumier
 
WAS $599
Domaine Roumier Les Cras, Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, France 2011 750ml $499 special, only 1 bottle available
Burghound 92 Points “Contrary to the usual pattern, this is actually more expressive than the Charmes with its cool, refined, pure and ripe nose of red and dark berry fruit that includes elements of truffle, crushed herb, earth and minerality, all of which can be found on the very primary and very fresh, sappy, powerful and focused flavors that are serious and while the underlying material of the Charmes is good, this is clearly better which is important because the tannins here are also moderately firmer and denser.”
 
Lowest Price in the USA by far!
Average price is $1,068
 
WAS $999
Domaine Roumier ‘Michel Bonnefond’ Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits, France 2006 750ml $799 special, only 1 bottle available
Burghound 92 Points “Contrary to the usual pattern, this is actually more expressive than the Charmes with its cool, refined, pure and ripe nose of red and dark berry fruit that includes elements of truffle, crushed herb, earth and minerality, all of which can be found on the very primary and very fresh, sappy, powerful and focused flavors that are serious and while the underlying material of the Charmes is good, this is clearly better which is important because the tannins here are also moderately firmer and denser.”
 
Only listed price in the USA
 
Domaine Armand Rousseau
 
WAS $2,199
Domaine Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits, France 2011 750ml $1,999 special, only 1 bottle available
Burghound 95 Points “A potently expressive nose blends both wood and natural spice together with distinctly cool, pure and ripe wild red berries, earth and underbrush. The palate impression is a gorgeous combination of power and refinement along with flat out superb complexity on the explosively long, focused and beautifully well-balanced finish. The supporting structure is dense but fine and this should prove to be a moderately long-lived example.”
 
WAS $2,499
Domaine Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits, France 2008 750ml $2,199 special, only 1 bottle available
Antonio Galloni-Wine Advocate 96+ Points “Rousseau’s 2008 Chambertin-Clos de Beze is off the charts. Textured and layered throughout, this exquisite, captivating wine graces the palate with endless fruit framed by silky, refined tannins. All of the elements build effortlessly to the dazzling, impeccably crafted finish.”
 
Lowest price in the USA!
 
 
Featured Close-Out of the Day
 
 
Raphael et Vincent Bereche
 

If you’re reading this, you’ve no doubt already experienced the joys of our favorite Grower Champagne producers, the peerless Bereche et fils. How in the world do they achieve such complexity in the blend year after year? It’s baffling. To quote ourselves, their wines feature “richness that’s as light as a feather, aromas that refresh and draw you in deeper, and an opulent mousse with unending depth.”
 
They’re good.
 
This very special wine, Bereche’s “Côte” Millesime represents a combination of brothers Raphael & Vincent’s incredibly precise and technical winemaking prowess in service to the best regions in Champagne, like Oger, that they would never have access to in their Estate bottlings.
 
Only 5,300 bottle of this wine was released and we are selling this super rare bottle at the lowest price in the United States.

WAS $135
Raphael et Vincent Bereche ‘Cote’ Oger Grand Cru Millesime Extra-Brut 2016 750ml, Champagne, France $124 special, 12+ bottles available
Not reviewed yet, 2005 review provided for reference.
Gismondi on Wine 94 Points (2005 vintage) ” … Exceptional finesse and complexity, with layers of wet and dry chalk, lemon peel, green apple, fresh filberts, crispy meringue on a finely textured palate. A wave of savoury salts kissed with brown butter rides throughout, providing an alluring interest. There’s a natural restraint, yet palpable intensity in this graceful, characterful wine, one that stood out amongst the rest.”
 
 
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Thank you from the team at Vinopolis!
Be well & drink well.

G.D. Vajra: A Victory for Value Sale 8-21-24

G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
 
Your Three-Day Discount Starts Now
 
It’s rare to find benchmark wines that remain affordable from one of a wine-growing region considered one of the finest in the world for centuries, but not impossible. Well, if you’ve read the title of this newsletter, there’s no surprise who we have in mind: G.D. Vajra and the now-sister estate of Luigi Baudana.
 
Check the purchase record of any staff member, and you’ll know why we call G.D. Vajra one of our favorite producers in the Piedmont. The estate responsible for some of the finest Barolos we offer and also excels with their more entry-level options. The lineup as a whole is quite simply the best in Piedmont today. At all price points they are benchmark wines against which all others are judged.
 
The entry-level wines consist of often unique regional blends and varietal wines. The wide selection of equally interesting options (red, white, and sparkling) all make for winning pizza- or pasta-night pairings. They’re wines that are so utterly charming and affordable, that you’ll want to buy by the case.
 
As we climb the latter, there are small-production wines from rare grapes (Freisa) and the cellar-defender Langhe Nebbiolos and village-level Barolos. At the top end, we find single-vineyard Barolos including the Ravera, which goes for triple digits from others addresses. The Bricco delle Viole is the highest vineyard in Barolo, named for the violets that blossom across its southern exposure. In its position above the thick fogs, it receives the most sunlight with the earliest sunrise and latest sunset, as well as a wildly dramatic diurnal temperature swing. The wines are lifted with refined tannins and minerality. Coste di Rose is home to a wide range of soil types, including sandstone. Per Monica Larner of the Wine Advocate, this results in unique aromatics and a darker fruit profile than the Bricco delle Viole.
 
If you’re not familiar with the Luigi Baundana estate, here’s a quick primer: In 2009, G.D. Vajra was entrusted by Luigi and Fiorina Baudana to carry on the legacy of their cherished garagiste operation upon their retirement. The estate’s holdings don’t exceed seven acres, making them one of the smallest wineries in all of Piedmont. As a result, these are wines made in highly limited qualities and offer a wholly unique interpretation of the varietal. The technical skill of Vajra is on full display with these old vines, resulting in wines that live up to the heritage of the estate and a wholly different interpretation of Nebbiolo in terms of aromatic lift and fruit profile. Their two estate vineyards offer perfumed and fruit driven expressions of Nebbiolo against minerality with clear aging potential.  
 
Across the line, reviewers praise the complexity and value offered by these two estates. We’re proud to offer multiple vintages of these excellent Barolos and a wide range of the varietal wines and region blends. You can browse the selections below and shop the range on our webstore now!
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock wines from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
10% off any 9 or more in-stock wines from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana
 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
 
Sale ends Saturday, August 24th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer nineteen options from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana on sale now, including:
 
Luigi Baudana Serralunga, Barolo DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 7 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “This wine is a blend of fruit from Baudana, Cerretta and Costabella. The Luigi Baudana 2019 Barolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba shows the firmness and structure that this village is known for with pretty perfumes of rose, rusty nail, autumnal leaf, licorice and tar. Costabella is an early-ripening site, and fruit is sourced from the youngest vines in Cerretta and Baudana (leaving a selection from the older vines for the single-vineyard wines).”
 
Luigi Baudana ‘Baudana’, Barolo DOCG 2018 750ml Was $89, Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 23 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “With fruit from Serralunga d’Alba, the 2018 Barolo Baudana is a very different wine when compared to the other single-vineyard expressions from this estate. This has to do with site and soil, and in the case of this celebrated subzone, the wines are always more powerful, more structured and mineral-driven. Dark fruit is followed by rusty notes of iron ore and crushed clay. This wine offers good substance both in terms of finish and texture. Cascina Adelaide does a great job with the Baudana”.
 
Luigi Baudana ‘Baudana’, Barolo DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96 points “The 2019 Barolo Baudana is absolutely captivating. Effusive and bright in the glass, with tons of freshness and remarkable fruit purity, the Baudana offers up generous dark red fruit, spice, leather, kirsch, hard candy, cedar, tobacco and underbrush. There’s terrific depth here and exceptional balance, too. Rose petal, white pepper and chalk lift the high-toned, intensely saline finish.”
 
Luigi Baudana Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2018 750ml Was $79, Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 17 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2018 Barolo Cerretta is a potent, searing wine, its mid-weight structure notwithstanding. Scorching tannins wrap around a core of dark red/black fruit, gravel, smoke, crushed rocks, menthol, licorice and game. The 2018 is going to need a number of years to come around and for those formidable tannins to soften.”
 
G.D. Vajra bottles at VinopolisG.D. Vajra Bricco delle Viole, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 3 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Aromas of underbrush, pine forest, woodland berries and cedar form the enticing nose. Full-bodied and savory, the structured palate delivers ripe Morello cherry, raspberry compote, star anise and cinnamon before closing on pipe tobacco notes. Tightly knit but refined tannins provide the backbone, while surprisingly fresh acidity for the hot vintage keeps it balanced. Drink 2024–2032.”
 
G.D. Vajra Coste di Rose, Barolo DOCG 2018 750ml Was $62.50, Displayed Price: $57.50, that’s $54.63 at 5% off and $51.75 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points “The 2018 Barolo Coste di Rose is a delicate, understated Barolo that will need a bit of time to fully emerge. There’s lovely purity to the fruit here, but also some angular contours that need to resolve. The 2018 is a mid-weight wine in the style of the vintage, and yet there is fine balance.”
 
G.D. Vajra Coste di Rose, Barolo DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 13 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Compared to Bricco delle Viole, Coste di Rose is distinguished by sandstone soils at lower elevations of 340 to 350 meters above sea level. There is a lot of variability in the soils, and as they change, Nebbiolo behaves differently, picking up new aromas and textural qualities along the way. The G.D. Vajra 2019 Barolo Coste di Rose shows a darker core of fruit with dusty earthy tones and campfire ash. The grape skins were quite thick in 2019, meaning that less work was done with submerged cap and other extractive methods. The beauty of this wine is the mouthfeel, which feels rich, tight and silky. Coste di Rose was first made in 2015.”
 
G.D. Vajra Ravera, Barolo DOCG 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $79, that’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2018 Barolo Ravera is a powerful, tightly wound wine. Gravel, smoke, cured meats, spice, leather, tobacco and menthol emerge, but only with quite a bit of reticence. This deceptively mid-weight Barolo has a good bit of brawn. It will be interesting to see if the fruit emerges from behind the tannins.”
 
G.D. Vajra Ravera, Barolo DOCG 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 29 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 97 points “The organic G.D. Vajra 2019 Barolo Ravera (with fruit from the most sought-after cru in the village of Novello) reveals gorgeous tonality and color. The wine shines bright with dark ruby and garnet gemstone. Healthy Nebbiolo colors like this can be admired across the 2019 vintage. Ravera represents a union of different geologies from Barolo and Castiglione Falletto. The site has shown extraordinary versatility, especially in the face of climate change, to make wines of both strength and elegance. It is softly textured but also strong in fiber, with silky sensations followed by dark fruit and concentration. Ravera has a character all its own, and the operative word here is power.”
 
Varietal Wines:
 
G.D. Vajra ‘Clare J.C.’ Langhe Nebbiolo 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $21.90, that’s $20.81 at 5% off and $19.71 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “This is one of my favorite go-to wines for informal nights with family and friends. The G.D. Vajra 2022 Langhe Nebbiolo Claré J.C. opens to a lean appearance with bright ruby highlights. It remains true to the grape, in simple or almost transparent terms, with fresh berry fruit, cassis, blue flower and iris. I love the punchy, electric quality of this wine and its streamlined approach. You’ll love it too (and love the low shelf price).”
 
G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $19.50, that’s $18.53 at 5% off and $17.55 at 10% off, 27 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 90 points “The G.D. Vajra 2022 Barbera d’Alba is a nicely concentrated effort with dark cherry fruit, blackberry and cinnamon-like sensations from the grape skins. With that extra density comes extra fruit weight and a powerful 15% alcohol content. The wine does carry muscle for sure, but the results are firm and tight.”
 
G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba Superiore 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $29, that’s $27.55 at 5% off and $26.10 at 10% off, 25 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93+ points “Just bottled, the 2021 Barbera d’Alba Superiore is fabulous. Rich and inky, with tremendous depth, the 2021 is so vibrant in the glass. Red/purplish fruit, lavender, sweet spice and mocha are all dialed up, with a kiss of French oak that adds raciness.”
 
G.D. Vajra Freisa ‘Kye’ Langhe Rosso 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $36, that’s $34.20 at 5% off and $32.40 at 10% off, 9 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 92 points “The G.D. Vajra 2021 Langhe Freisa Kyè has a delicate bouquet with intertwined berry and floral elements that could recall Japanese cherry blossom or even a Sicilian almond blossom. Beyond that, the wine offers an interlude of fresh blue fruits with elderberry and juniper. It shows terrific freshness and more tart flavors to close.”
 
G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $21.90, that’s $20.81 at 5% off and $19.71 at 10% off, 15 bottles in stock now
Winery Notes “The 2022 Langhe DOC Nebbiolo has a lively light garnet color. On the nose, it displays raspberry, red cherry and mountain wild berries, florals with violet and rose whiffles, a hint of lavender and mint all wrapped in an ethereal scent. On the palate, there is elegance, aromatic fragrance of crunchy red fruits, orange zest, chalky minerality and a lifted finish.”
 
G.D. Vajra Moscato d’Asti DOCG 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $16, that’s $15.20 at 5% off and $14.40 at 10% off, 21 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 89 points “The G.D. Vajra 2022 Moscato d’Asti was born in a warm vintage and shows fragrant aromas of white peach, tropical fruit, candied lemon and a hint of sage or dried jasmine blossom. This informal dessert wine delivers soft foam and more sweet flavors over a creamy finish.”
Winery Tasting Note “Beautiful bright gold color. Delicate aromas of stone fruits, grapefruit, peach and white pear. A whiffle of elderflower, hints of sage, lychee and pineapple weave the bouquet. This Moscato has a beautiful texture, wrapped by a creamy and persistent finish.”
 
Shop our nineteen in-stock selections from G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana on sale now on our webstore!


 
Don’t miss our three additional sales going on now:
 
Donnhoff
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Donnhoff
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Donnhoff
 
Paitin
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Paitin
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Paitin

5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Cayuse
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Cayuse

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Donnhoff sale ends Thursday, August 22nd at 9 am Pacific. Paitin sale ends Friday, August 23rd at 9 am Pacific. Cayuse sale ends Saturday, August 24th at 9 am Pacific.