Category Archives: Newsletter Archive

Fontodi: Treasure of Tuscany on Sale Now 7-14-24

 


There are 8 bottles of 2009 Fontodi Flaccianello left in the Vinopolis cellar, and you could walk away with all of them at 10% off. We’re talking aged to perfection wine from one of Tuscany’s most coveted estates.The average price of Flaccianello is approximately ~$200 retail for any vintage in the USA, and with 10% off our price you’d be getting 2009 for ~$134. I don’t know about you, but a $66 dollars worth of savings per bottle is a screaming deal to me! We’ve got 3 other bottlings from Fontodi that are well worth your attention in addition. Mix and match or go all in on a single cuvee, the choice is yours and the savings are as well.

Fontodi is one of Tuscany’s most respected estates and produces some of the finest wines in the world. The estate’s vineyards are planted along a high elevation hill of Conca d’Oro (“the golden shell,” named for its shape) and its south-facing amphitheater. It is an utterly unique terroir. Here, the high elevation and shape of the land offer long and warm summer days and a wild diurnal temperature swing. The calcareous clay and schist soils are optimal for producing ripe yet balanced Sangiovese. The resulting wines are effortlessly delicious and harmonious, the gift of such high-quality base material.
 
 
Fontodi
Fontodi Estate in Panzano
 
The Manetti Family purchased their property in the village of Panzano in 1968. (Before that, they crafted terracotta tiles from the soil, so you could say they know the land intimately.) Their wines quickly brought international attention to this tiny village, home to other famous estates as Molino di Grace and Rampolla. Today, Giovanni Manetti helms the estate as well as being the president of the Consorzio Chianti Classico, the regional winegrower association.
 
Fontodi’s flagship bottling, the Flaccianello della Pieve, is one of the best, most sought after Sangiovese wines crafted in Tuscany. Flaccianello’s obvious class seems inevitable when you consider that each year it is made with only the finest vineyard blocks from their exquisite holdings. Built for the long haul not unlike a Brunello, this is an ideal Sangiovese for a long-term cellaring. It’s on par with any wine that comes out of Tuscany—Soldera, Biondi-Santi Riserva, Pergole Torte, Valdicava’s Madonna… you name it—though the Flaccianello tends to run far less than its peers. Heck, this would be a cult wine selling for thousands if the vineyard was in Napa or Bordeaux.
 
Fontodi is certified organic with 70 hectares of vines across their 130 hectares of land. The family is strongly committed to organic agriculture, writing that they believe that by “respecting the environment means wines that are better, purer, and a truer expression of the grape and the territory.” The sentiment extends into the winery where the aim is to preserve the “natural integrity of the grape, in order to exalt the character and elegance of the wines.”
 
“Among the many excellent estates located in Panzano is Fontodi, one of the finest wine estates in the world… Giovanni Manetti and Fontodi represent the pinnacle of quality that can be achieved in this part of Tuscany. That he has become a symbolic head of the region only brings more prestige and pedigree to an appellation that demands our highest respect and admiration.” -Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
 
5% off any 3-5 bottles of in-stock Fontodi wines
10% off any 6 or more bottles of in-stock Fontodi wines

 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Discount ends Wednesday, July 17th at 9 am Pacific
 

In Stock and On Sale Now from Fontodi:
 
Fontodi Vigna del Sorbo, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $119, that’s $113.05 at 5% off and $107.10 at 10% off, 20 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 96+ points 
“The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a dense, packed wine. It is also surprisingly, almost shockingly backward. That is probably a good thing for its long-term aging prospects. Readers hoping to get an early glimpse into the 2017 before it shuts down may have a hard time doing that, as today acids and tannin dominate. I expect the 2017 will be stellar in another 4-5 years and drink well to age 25-30 if not longer. Proprietor Giovanni Manetti gave the 2017 18 months in barrique followed by 6 months in cask.”
 
Fontodi “Dino” Chianti Classico 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $75, that’s $71.25 at 5% off and $67.50 at 10% off, 5 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points
 “The 2018 Dino, Fontodi’s 100% Sangiovese done in amphora, is so intriguing. The purity of the Sangiovese fruit is just remarkable, as is the wine’s energy. Readers will have to look past a bit of spritziness (that dissipates with air) but there is so much to like in the 2018, starting with its exceptional balance and poise. With a bit of air, the 2018 is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. I am really intrigued to see how the 2018 ages, as that is one of the biggest question marks for wines made in this style. Bright acids add a good deal of supporting structure that suggest the 2018 has at least another decade of fine drinking ahead of it.”
 
Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 2009 750ml Displayed Price: $149, that’s $141.55 at 5% off and $134.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points
 “The 2009 Flaccianello della Pieve is now hitting that very specific point in a wine’s evolution in which you still identity some of the fruit, but you also get a supporting chorus of evolved aromas that enhance the overall finesse and depth of the bouquet. This wine is coming along beautifully and seems right on point in terms of its forward moving aging trajectory. Dried blackberry, cherry confit and plum are rounded out by spice, toast and bitter chocolate. The bouquet fires out on multiple sides, thus increasing the perceived complexity on hand. This vintage is very open and frank, and this is another endearing quality to admire. Interestingly, this vintage saw naturally high yields. Giovanni Manetti tells me they had to work very carefully in terms of green harvest and fruit selection in order to achieve this impeccable level of balance.”

Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $159, that’s $151.05 at 5% off and $143.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 97 points
 “The 2017 Flaccianello della Pieve is fabulous. Dark, sensual and enveloping, the 2017 captures the essence of the house style in its textural richness and baritone inflections. Black cherry, plum, spice, new leather, licorice and chocolate infuse the 2017 with tremendous richness. The 2017 spent 18 months in barrique followed by 6 months in cask, the same aging regime as the Vigna del Sorbo, but with a bit more new oak. That approach worked very well, as the Flaccianello stands out for its exceptional textural elegance and finesse. It is a positively stellar wine.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The Fontodi 2017 Flaccianello della Pieve is a standout wine of the dry vintage. This pure Sangiovese opens to a dark garnet color with more visible concentration and density compared to recent past editions. This is a beautiful wine with pliant tannins, dark fruit richness, balanced acidity and a fruit-forward 15% alcohol content. The wine is big and bold when weighed on the Flaccianello scale (and even more so when weighed on the Sangiovese scale) with dark cherry, plum, spice, violet, chalk and campfire ash. Despite that power and inner opulence, this wine adds that zesty Sangiovese character with fresh acidity and an energized approach. This Flaccianello is whole and complete with the natural firmness and structure to hold it steady during the aging process. A small part of amphorae-aged fruit is added to the blend.”
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Aromas of baked plum, blue flower, French oak and camphor are front and center on this bold, full-bodied red. Made entirely with organically grown Sangiovese, the delicious palate boasts concentration and a weightless elegance, doling out layers of ripe Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, licorice, cocoa and carob framed in tightly wound, close-grained tannins. Give it a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2023–2037.”

Bastille Day Champagne Sale 7-13-24

Three-Day Bastille Day Sale On Champagne
 
Starts Now
 

Storm in for savings!
 
In honor of Bastille Day on Sunday, we’re placing all of our in-stock Champagnes on a three-day discount. Stock up and save on picks from Portland’s favorite Champagnes including Bereche, Andre Clouet, Vilmart, Pol Roger, Roederer, and so, so more!
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Champagne
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Champagne

 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Sale ends Tuesday, July 16th at 9 am Pacific.
 
Can’t decide?
Browse our staff picks below.
We offer 156 options from Champagne on sale now, including:

 
R. Dumont – Up & Coming Region, Historic Estate, Low, Low Prices
 
The Dumont family grows their wines in the Aube. This is a small sub-region of Champagne is known for its Kimmeridgian soils and for being the home of dozens of up-and-coming to rock-star producers (such as Vouette e Sorbee and Marie Courtin). Producers in the regions of Champagne that surround Epernay often snubbed the Aube for not being “true” Champagne while buying grapes from the region to fill their winemaking vats. Champagne insiders know better, and look here for innovation and value.
 
R. Dumont & Fils Tradition Brut NV 750ml Displayed Price: $33, that’s $31.35 at 5% off and $29.70 at 10% off, 16 bottles in stock now
Importer Note
“The Dumont Brut NV is a blend of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay. The grapes from their vineyard have qualities that seem less aggressive and more sumptuous than those from the northern districts. In addition, vinification of whole berries at low temperatures enhances this quality of soft elegance. The NV is a blend of vintages typically between two and five years old. It is aged for two years on the lees before disgorgement. Dosage is 7 grams.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $47
 
R. Dumont & Fils Brut Rosé NV 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 22 bottles in stock now
Importer Note
“The Dumont Brut Rosé is made exclusively from Pinot Noir. A selection is made in the vineyard from parcels that are particularly ripe and from bunches with deeply colored skins. Fermentation proceeds as with red wines but the wine is drawn off the skins after a day or so with the Dumonts looking carefully at the balance of extraction, color and tannin. This method, known as “saignée”, is a tricky art but one that can produce the most natural and delicately complex style of Rosé champagne. The Brut Rosé NV is aged for two years on the lees before disgorgement and dosage is 10 grams.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $54
 
R. Dumont & Fils Brut Millesime 2012 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Importer Note
“The vintage wines, which are a blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay, are assembled and then matured “sur lattes” for five to six years before being disgorged. According to the characteristics of the vintage the dosage varies.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
A. Margaine – Beloved By Somms, Supremely Food-Friendly
 
Arnaud Margaine has helmed his family’s estate in the Premier Cru village of Villers-Marmery in the Montagne de Reims since 1989. He sells some of his estate’s fruit to Clicquot, Bollinger and Lanson. He’s not one to rest on his laurels, and still experiments with vinifying in used barrel or using cover crops in the vineyard to make the roots dig deeper, all with the goal of improving quality over the long term. Today, the estate is being increasingly taken over by his energetic and incredibly knowledge daughter, Mathilde Margaine, who is the fifth generation to run the estate and the first woman. The wines are light and ethereal, and will only improve in the cellar for several years.
 
“Without question one of the finest wines in its style” -Antonio Galloni, Vinous
A. Margaine Cuvee Traditionelle Premier Cru Demi-Sec NV 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 6 bottles in stock now
A. Margaine Cuvee Traditionelle Premier Cru Demi-Sec NV 375ml Displayed Price: $28, that’s $26.60 at 5% off and $25.20 at 10% off, 8 half-bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points
“The NV Cuvée Le Demi-Sec is absolutely gorgeous, as it so often is. Lemon drop, white flowers and baked apple tart are nicely amplified by the 18 grams of residual sugar. Demi-Sec is a bit of a lost art these days; few do it better than Margaine. This release is 88% Chardonnay and 12% Pinot Noir, based on 2019, with reserve wines from 2018, 2017, 2014 and 2013. Dosage is 32 grams per liter. Disgorged: January, 2022.” [Disgorgement date may vary]
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the half-bottle!
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast for the 750ml!
 
A. Margaine Special Club Blanc de Blancs Brut 2015 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 7 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points
“The 2015 Brut Spécial Club is 100% Chardonnay from three Premier Cru lieux-dits in Villers-Marmery. Soft, open-knit and expressive, the 2015 offers hints of pear, apricot, white flowers and spice. A touch of barrel fermentation and a slightly higher dosage of 8 grams per liter work well here in taming some of the more austere characters that run through most of these Champagnes. This is a fine effort for the year. Disgorged: January, 2023.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $111
 
Pierre Paillard – Young Winemakers With A Huge Portland Following (Staff Included!)
 
The Grand Cru village of Bouzy is famous for the exceptional power of their Pinot Noir. The Paillard family has been farming in the village since 1768 and sold fruit to the Grand Marques for four generations, before initiating their own production. Antoine and Quentin Paillard now lead the house as the 8th generation of vignerons and converted the estate to organic farming. The meticulous farming practices are evident in their wines, which have been a staff favorite for years because of their value and sleek elegance. They show a bright and lively delicacy in a village better known for its power and richness.  
 
Pierre Paillard ‘Les Terres Roses’ Bouzy Grand Cru Brut Rosé NV 750ml Displayed Price: $62.50, that’s $59.38 at 5% off and $56.25 at 10% off, 10 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points
“Composed of 65% Chardonnay and the rest Pinot Noir, the NV Champagne Grand Cru Bouzy Les Terres Roses (5% red wine) pours a bright pale pink hue and reveals aromatics of ripe strawberry, fresh bread dough, and candied roses. Juicy and inviting, with a fluffy mousse, it’s full-bodied and has a clean, supple, fruity texture. It’s fresh and savory on the palate, with salty lift and a note of orange zest that leaves a mouthwatering finish. Drink 2024-2040. One gram per liter dosage.”
 
Pierre Paillard ‘Les Parcelles’ Bouzy Grand Cru Extra Brut NV 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 29 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points
“Made from 80% Pinot and 20% Chardonnay, with the base 2019 and the rest reserve wine from the past couple of years, the NV Champagne Grand Cru Bouzy Les Parcelles is expressive and fruit-forward on opening, with notes of cherry blossom, fresh peach, and honeycomb. With zero grams per liter dosage, there’s no lacking for ripeness and freshness. Long on the palate and quite inviting, it’s going to be wonderful drinking over the coming 8-10 years.”
 
Andre Clouet – Perpetual Favorite for Class & Value
 
Andre Clouet is a small-but-mighty Champagne House headed by the somewhat-eccentric Jean-François Clouet. The House is known for many things, including crafting some of the best values in their Grand Cru village of Bouzy. The wines are fantastic, from their base non-vintage blend all the way through the prestige “1911” cuvee, which is perpetually one of the best under $100 Champagnes out there.
 
Andre Clouet Un Jour de 1911… Brut NV 750ml Displayed Price: $85, that’s $80.75 at 5% off and $76.50 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points
“[Reviewed 2021] The NV Un jour de 1911… is another 100% Bouzy Pinot Noir with an ancient label design. The shining golden-colored cuvée combines ripeness, complexity and finesse with intensity and elegance on both the nose and palate. It’s a powerful and rich yet very fine and balanced Champagne with great freshness and complex length. It is juicy and intense but also highly delicate, and its mineral tension and persistent finish make it a first-class wine for elaborate dishes. A great Champagne, with a label that doesn’t give any more detailed information regarding vintages or disgorgement date, but we know it’s always a 50/50 blend of three vintages (including one great millésime at least 10 years old) and reserve wines from a solera system. I tasted the wine as a Brut with Clouet’s German importer in Bremen. You shouldn’t drink it too early, as it would be a waste of its talents.”
 
Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature NV 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 20 bottles in stock now
Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature NV 3L Displayed Price: $279, that’s $265.05 at 5% off and $251.10 at 10% off, 15 double-magnums in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92+ points
“[Reviewed Apr 2021] Clouet’s NV Silver Brut Nature Grand Cru is a pure Bouzy Pinot Noir that was disgorged without any dosage. This disgorgement displays a medium intense golden color and a complex and refined bouquet of ripe and pureed apples and discreet chalky as well as brioche aromas. The palate is elegant, straight and fresh, very pure and salty on the finish. This is a challenging Brut Nature that needs to be aged for two or three years to gain complexity and finesse and to smooth its current edges. The finish is mineral, limestone and salty but also a bit drying at this moment.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Andre Clouet ‘Dream Vintage’ Brut 2016 750ml Displayed Price: $54.50, that’s $51.78 at 5% off and $49.05 at 10% off, 22 bottles in stock now
Winery Notes
“Dream Vintage by Andre Clouet is dedicated to the grand vintages of Champagne. In contrast to the other wines, Dream Vintage is 100% grand cru Chardonnay from the vineyards in Bouzy. Label inspiration comes from the striking colours of Cadillac cars from the 1950s.”
 
De Venoge – Monumental Champagnes
 
De Venoge is an old-school Champagne House that’s relatively unknown in the United States, a fact that means even their finest and rarest wines continue to be undervalued relative to their peers. This is no better exemplified than their prestige cuvee, the LXV bottling. Named after Louis the 15th, who first authorized the bottling of Champagne, it sees extensive aging on its lees and is a true monument of vintage champagne.
 
De Venoge Louis XV de Venoge Brut Millesime 2006 750ml Was $189, Displayed Price: $169, that’s $160.55 at 5% off and $152.10 at 10% off, 30 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points
“The assemblage of the 2006 Louis XV Brut Millésimé is about the same as the 1995 and 1996—composed of 50/50 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, all from grand cru villages. The only difference is that the Chardonnay from Le Mesnil-sur-Oger (10% of the assemblage) spent 12 months in oak barrels. Disgorged in January 2017 (dosage: six grams per liter), the 2006 has a golden color and opens with a deep, ripe, elegant and vinous bouquet with toasty and chalky lemon and fresh white fruit flavors. On the palate, this is an intense, round, fresh and complex Louis XV with great purity and finesse. The wine opens on the palate like a soufflé, coating the whole palate without any pressure or weight—gorgeous! This is a delicate and fresh yet well-structured and persistent Louis XV whose intense and long but weightless finish reveals lovely, almost juicy fruit concentration with perfectly integrated freshness and lasting minerality that seems to give additional structure. The 2006 shows a lot of Chardonnay features right now and drinks perfectly today; however, it can be kept under perfect conditions for decades. Just keep it in the box, because the bottle is white and nothing makes a Champagne age faster than exposure to daylight. (Tasted in November 2017 from Lot LL15067017BT.)-SR”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
De Venoge Louis XV de Venoge Brut Millesime 2008 750ml Was $249, Displayed Price: $219, that’s $208.05 at 5% off and $197.10 at 10% off, 32 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points
“This is really punchy and broad-shouldered with muscular structure and citrusy undertones. Full body. Lightly tannic and a fresh and vivid finish. This is the first vintage without malolactic fermentation ever. One for the cellar. Better in 2022.”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93+ points “The straw-yellow/white-golden colored 2008 Louis XV Brut Millésimé blends 50% Chardonnay (20 % from Avize, 15% from Oger and 15% from Mesnil) with 50% Pinot Noir (41.5% from Verzenay and 8.5% from Bouzy). Disgorged in January 2018 with a dosage of six grams per liter, the 2008 displays a clear, pure, fresh, chalky-tinged and vinous nose with lemon, white fruits, brioche, hazelnuts, white blossoms and some caramel notes. Pure, lean, fresh and elegant on the palate, with a lingering hazelnut flavor, this is a straight yet complex cuvée with grip and a long, well-structured and textured finish. This 2008 is still terribly fresh and should benefit from further bottle aging. For the moment, I am missing the mouth-filling generosity of the 2006 and 1995. Mind that this is the first vintage of de Venoge’s prestigious Louis XV where the base wines didn’t undergo malolactic fermentation! Total production: 10,326 bottles. Tasted October 2018.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $278
 
De Venoge Louis XV de Venoge Extra Brut Rosé Millesime 2002 750ml Was $189, Displayed Price: $159, that’s $151.05 at 5% off and $143.10 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points
“Harmonious, with fine intensity, offering rich notes of spice cake, toasted almond, dried cherry, grilled plum and smoky mineral. Almost velvety in texture, with juicy acidity that brings you back for another sip. Delicious. Drink now through 2022. 54 cases made.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Delamotte – Powerhouse in Le Mesnil
 
Delamotte is best known as the more affordable sister estate of Salon—the original luxury-collectible single vineyard Blanc de Blancs from Le Mesnil. They share viticultural, winemaking, and management teams, per Wine Searcher. While overlooking Delamotte in favor of its wildly more expensive sister is understandable, it ignores the fact that Delamotte is a Champagne House of note in its own right.
 
What makes these Champagnes so special? These represent some of the finest Blanc de Blancs (Chardonnay) terroirs in all of Champagne. These Champagnes define chalk: the precious fruit is grown on the slopes of the Grand Cru villages of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Avize, Oger, and Cramant. The wines are given just a small dosage to allow the Cote des Blancs terroir to shine. The Pinot Noir and Meunier grapes, too, hail from illustrious Grand Cru villages well known to insiders: Bouzy, Ambonnay and Tours-sur-Marne.
 
These are enchanting and captivating Cote des Blancs Champagnes worthy of your attention (and ample space in your cellar).
 
Delamotte Blanc de Blancs Brut NV 750ml Displayed Price: $79, that’s $75.05 at 5% off and $71.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points
“Croissants, toasted sourdough, white pears, acacia and lemon meringue pie. Salty almond notes on the palate. Deliciously saline and creamy, with silky bubbles and a gently toasty finish. 100% chardonnay from Mesnil, Avize and Oger. Based on 2017 vintage with 20% reservewines. Drink now. – July 19, 2023”
 
Delamotte Brut NV 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points
“[Reviewed 2023] A delicate, mineral-driven Champagne, with an underpinning of chalk, smoke and oyster shell layered with notes of poached apricot, citronella and beeswax. Lively and persistent on the finish. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Drink now through 2026. 6,250 cases made.”
 
Diebolt-Vallois’s Fleur de Passion – Stern in Youth, Rewarding in the Cellar
 
The Côte des Blancs region in Champagne is home to some of the most sought after and exquisite sparkling wine in the world. In the Cote des Blancs village of Cramant, Diebolt-Vallois is a star player, in part due to the quality of their vineyard holdings in the region and nearby Epernay. The estate has focused on Blanc de Blancs since their founding in 1959. These are very classic representations of Champagne. With a house style characterized by crisp minerality, food friendly acidity and refreshing fruit profile expressing notes of orchard fruits and citrus.
 
Diebolt-Vallois ‘Fleur de Passion’ Blanc de Blancs Brut 2008 750ml Displayed Price: $399, that’s $379.05 at 5% off and $359.10 at 10% off, 3 bottles in stock now
Diebolt-Vallois ‘Fleur de Passion’ Blanc de Blancs Brut 2008 1.5L Displayed Price: $799, that’s $759.05 at 5% off and $719.10 at 10% off, 3 magnums in stock now
Winery note
“Pure Chardonnay made from our oldest plots located in Cramant Grand Cru terroir. This Blanc de Blancs, 100% 2008 harvest, is vinified in oak barrels without malolactic fermentation nor filtration. This bottling in 2009 is prolonged by an ageing on lees during 13 years in our cellars… The Champagne Fleur de Passion is the jewel in the range from the house of Diebolt-Vallois. It is only made in the very best years. This wine is created entirely in barrel, following the major principles of the first wine Jacques Diebolt made together with his grandfather in 1953. Fleur de Passion is a precious and delicate champagne, it is complex, intense and long on the palate. 100% chardonnay.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
 
Guy Charlemagne’s “Mesnillésime” – Fascinating Vintage at a Bargain
 
The Charlemagne family has been making wine in Mesnil-sur-Oger since 1892, five generations bringing new breath to their land, while continuing the tradition of producing world class Champagne. Per Peter Liem, this is a grower to hunt for, especially their top bottling, Mesnillésime, which is “a vintage-dated blanc de blancs from Charlemagne’s oldest vines in Le Mesnil: like all of his wines, it’s brisk and racy, although it has a layered depth of fruit and a prominent chalkiness to counter its high acidity.” This cuvee is made from 100% Chardonnay hand-harvested from sixty-year-old vines grown in the chalky, limestone soil of Mesnil-sur-Oger. Champagne expert and author Richard Juhlin writes that the “Mesnillésime is a wine for every serious collector,” and goes on to note that Guy Charlemagne “is a grower to watch with the greatest respect in the future.”
 
Guy Charlemagne “Mesnillésime” Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs 2014 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 25 bottles in stock now
Anne Krebiehl MW-Vinous 93 points
“The 2014 Extra Brut Mesnillésime Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru is a pure Chardonnay from on average 60-year-old vines in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, vinified in oak with blocked malolactic fermentation. Notes of dried corn husk and salty maize meal on the nose take turns with yellow apple on the nose. The oak is apparent in savoriness rather than vanilla and a certain roundness on the body, beautifully handled. The mousse is still bright and sprightly, highlighting saltiness and fresh apple equally. This has an assertive personality, and comes across as a muscular, toned blanc de blancs, bracing at first, then relaxing into a warm smile. The umami finish can absolutely take on food.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Louis Roederer’s Cristal & Vinotheque – Matchless.
 
Roederer’s Cristal is one most sought-after bottlings in Champagne—a tête du cuvée that always lives up to the (enthusiastic) hype. Cristal Vinothèque—a late released bottling—represents the absolute pinnacle of what Roederer is capable of.
 
Louis Roederer Cristal Millesime Brut 2015 750ml Displayed Price: $379, that’s $360.05 at 5% off and $341.10 at 10% off, 5 bottles in stock now
The Wine Independent 98 points
“The 2015 Cristal is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. No malo-lactic was employed and 25% wine was aged in oak. The dosage is 7 grams per liter. An exquisitely delicate yet complex perfume of clover honey freshly shaved ginger marzipan and jasmine slowly emerges from the nose giving way to a core of pear tart persimmons and apple butter. The palate is an exercise in finesse featuring very fine bubbles and fantastic intensity with a myriad of spice and floral nuances finishing with impressive persistence and jaw-dropping poise. This is a style for those that embrace purity soft-spoken expression and impeccable crafting. It won’t disappoint those who love Champagne in its initial youthful perfume flushes yet will undoubtedly reward the patient with a richer toastier more obvious and opulent style with 5-10 years+ of cellaring.”
 
Louis Roederer Cristal Millesime Brut 2012 750ml Displayed Price: $519, that’s $493.05 at 5% off and $467.10 at 10% off, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 98 points
“The 2012 Cristal is the first made entirely from biodynamically farmed vineyards. Passionfruit, mango, spice and ginger open first, but it is the wine’s textural richness and Champagne Cristal Vinothequevolume that stand out most. The 2012 is one of the most opulent, flamboyant recent Cristals. Those qualities feel especially amplified in this tasting, perhaps because of the presence of wines from the surrounding vintages. It was a complicated season, as mildew reduced yields significantly, resulting in an especially rich Cristal that seems to be gaining intensity with time in bottle. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: 2020.”

Louis Roederer Cristal Vinotheque Edition Brut Millesime 1999 750ml Displayed Price: $1,245, that’s $1,182.75 at 5% off and $1,120.50 at 10% off, 2 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 98 points
“The nose has such beautiful, autolysis character with brown-mushroom and toasted-almond aromas. The nose has still-fresh lemons and oyster shell. Very smooth, pastry-like texture on the palate with even layers and a core of fresh lemons and peaches. The striking thing here is the balance and melted-together complexity. In a very great place. This spent seven years sur latte, seven sur pointe and was disgorged in 2014. Drink now.” [Reviewed 2019]
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Valentin Leflaive – Champagne’s Heart with a Burgundian Soul
 
Crafted by Burgundy house Olivier Leflaive, this Champagne is all Chardonnay hailing from one of Champagne’s finest villages: Le Mesnil Sur Oger. Full of finesse, this wine shows the serious side of terroir through a Burgundian lens.
 
Valentin Leflaive Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil Sur Oger Grand Cru Extra Brut (2015) NV 750ml Displayed Price: $99, that’s $94.05 at 5% off and $89.10 at 10% off, 13 bottles in stock now
Importer Notes
“This airy Champagne has light emerald reflections with precise nose with lime and tangerine notes with subtle minerality. On the palate, the champagne is fresh and harmonious with tones of flint and chalk. The long and salivating finish is punctuated by pleasant and fine salinity… Le Mesnil sur Oger Grand Cru Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Valentin Leflaive is composed exclusively of Chardonnay from one of the most prized Grand Crus in the Côte des Blancs. Le Mesnil sur Oger Grand Cru is the heart of Côte des Blancs that shows Chardonnay at its very best. Vinification 100% manual harvest. Fractional pressing with pressure level (the first juices are separated from the rest and are eliminated). Vinified in thermoregulated stainless steel vats. Aged on the lees for over 40 months.”
 
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
 
Shop our 156 Champagne selections on sale now on our webstore!
 

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

 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Pabiot sale ends Sunday, July 14th at 9 am Pacific.

Jonathan Didier Pabiot Sale 7-11-24

Pabiot
&
Close-Out Featurette: Huet
 

 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot
 
Your Three-Day Discount Starts Now

 
There is only one region in the world of Sauvignon Blanc that is whispered of reverently and can only rarely be found on shelves: Pouilly-Fumé. Made cult by Didier Dagueneau’s benchmark Silex bottling, you can be forgiven for expecting most top-rates PFs to set you back somewhere in the three figures a bottle range.
 
Pabiot from PolanerWould you even believe me if I said you could find an illustrious producer, one who is of the only 1% of producers in the region to work organically and biodynamically (the first in the region), one who wows the reviewers, and, most importantly, whose top two bottlings have yet to surpass $70 at our shop? What if I told you that these stunning wines are in stock and on sale now, just in time for your spring dishes?
 
Jonathan-Didier Pabiot is of course the man in question. He is a fifth-generation winemaker in the Pouilly-sur-Loire, which encompasses Pouilly-Fumé. Young, passionate, and exuberant, he crafts an array of bottlings from his family’s small holdings. Pabiot began his winemaking career under Léon Barral, “perhaps one of the most famous natural wine producers in all of southern France,” per an importer that does not even work with Barral’s wines. Heavily influenced by Barral, Pabiot converted his family’s domain first to organic and then to biodynamic, being the first in the AOC for each of the certifications.
 
The domain’s twenty hectares of vines include three soil types: Kimmeridgian, Portlandian, and clay-silex on flint. Vines average 30 years old at the estate and easily show how organic and biodynamic viticulture improves the condition of the vines. Unlike his neighbors, Pabiot’s hardy vines are rarely afflicted by disease or mildew.
 
Fermentations are slow and cool, using indigenous yeast and low amounts of SO2, free of enzymes or additives. Ageing takes place in a variety of containers, depending upon the bottling, but all include long lees ageing for added richness and complexity.
 
These wines are head-turners, sure to impress the stodgiest of palates. The Elisa, showcasing the estate’s Kimmeridgian soils, is the entry-level bottling sourced from younger vines across all three soil types. Like its siblings, this bottling is aged on the lees to create a wine that, according to Polaner imports, is an “early bird bottling [that] punches well above its weight class.” The Léon is the step up, including all three soil types but from more mature vines. This is the estate’s flagship and a true look into the nature of those to come.
 
At the top end are Eurythmie and Utopia. The Eurythmie debuted to comparisons with Didier Dagueneau’s quality push some decades earlier. The Utopia bottling is not to be missed by insiders. As one of the top wines from this estate, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc hails from one of Pabiot’s best parcels in Les Marnes. The vineyard soils are Kimmeridgian (calcareous clay and limestone), imparting a dense minerality to this generous, long-aging white. This wine was aged in large, oak barrels (demi-muids) with no added sulfites, giving a spicy richness and a decedent, if unusual, hint of oxidation.
 
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Pabiot
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Pabiot

 
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We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Sale ends Sunday, July 14th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer ten options from Pabiot on sale now, including:
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Aubaine” 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $44.50, that’s $42.28 at 5% off and $40.05 at 10% off, 24 bottles in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW-Vinous 90 points
“The 2021 Aubaine is aromatic with floral and gooseberry characters. Having spent 18 months in concrete tank on lees and tasted every two weeks to check the condition, it has taken on a richness of texture and breadth that coats the palate. It is suave and ready to enjoy, with a pretty elderflower scent lingering on the medium-length, lightly savory finish.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Elisa” 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $29.50, that’s $28.03 at 5% off and $26.55 at 10% off, 14 bottles in stock now
Importer note
“The entry-level Pouilly-Fumé Elisa, previously knowns as Prélude, is made from young vines spanning the family’s three primary soil types: limestone, silica and flint. Thanks to shrewd yields, an uncompromising approach in the vineyard, and lees aging over the winter months, this early bird bottling punches well above its weight class.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Eurythmie” 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $54.50, that’s $51.78 at 5% off and $49.05 at 10% off, 3 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote:
As one of the top wines from this estate, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc hails from one of Pabiot’s best parcels, Les Marnes, a tiny, two-acre plot. The vineyard soils are Kimmeridgian (calcareous clay and limestone), imparting a dense minerality to this generous, long-aging white. This wine was aged in neutral oak barrels before a short stint in stainless steel.
Importer note “The vines are forced to work harder and struggle on this poor soil. This means that this plot requires more attention, but then again, that is the case with most of the best plots for making great wines. The vines face the south and the southwest… We find notes of citrus, chalk, white flowers, flint, and a long and smooth finish. This wine was aged 12 months in neutral oak, followed by 6 months in stainless steel. This could be paired with oysters, scallops, ceviche, lobster, and goat cheeses.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Léon” 2021 1.5L Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 6 magnums in stock now
“The 2021 Léon accounts for most of the domaine’s production (70%). It has a bright, gooseberry and elderflower-like character. Fermented partially in concrete (40%), stainless steel (40%) and barrel (20%), it has a silky charm while remaining light-bodied. This is a really lively number that has charm and brightness. Very easy to like, made with a delicate hand.” -Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
The next best price is $84
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Luminance” 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 94 points
“From Kimmeridgian limestone, the 2020 Pouilly Fumé Luminance (known as “Prédilection” until the 2019 vintage) is excitingly pure and mineral on the saline and complex nose that indicates ripe and concentrated fruit. On the palate, this is a rich and intense, finely tannic, bitter yet stimulatingly fresh and saline Pouilly with a long and powerful finish. 13% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at ProWein in Düsseldorf in May 2022.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $60
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Luminance” 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 22 bottles in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW-Vinous 93 points
“The 2021 Luminance is pure with tangy green gooseberry and elderflower flavors. While light in body, it initially has a silken texture but ties tight on the finish. The naturally low yields create a highly concentrated style with tension and precision. There’s a touch of attractive phenolics on the drawn-out finish.”
 
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé Utopia 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $66, that’s $62.70 at 5% off and $59.40 at 10% off, 10 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote:
As one of the top wines from this estate, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc hails from one of Pabiot’s best parcels in Les Marnes. The vineyard soils are Kimmeridgian (calcareous clay and limestone), imparting a dense minerality to this generous, long-aging white. This wine was aged in large, oak barrels (demi-muids) with no added sulfites.
Importer note “Thanks to this terroir and the talent of Jonathan Pabiot, we find here a wine of exceptional purity. We find a slightly oxidized and spicy nose in this wine, with notes of candied quince and pears. This could be paired with ceviche, lobster, and hard cow cheeses like Comté or Beaufort.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Shop our ten Pabiot selections on sale now on our webstore!
 

 
Vinopolis Close-Out Featurette:
 
Domaine Huet

 
Domaine Huet is the most sought-after Vouvray producer, at least according to Wine-Searcher data. This is one of France’s pioneers in biodynamic viticulture, modernizing only in the most conscientious way. Today, horses still plough between the rows of their three vineyards, considered some of the greatest in all of the Loire. These vineyards have very distinct personalities worth exploring. Essentially, wines from Le Haut-Lieu are their most approachable, offering softer and younger-drinking wines. Le Mont wines are dense, chock-full of minerals (or should we say chalk-full?), and the most age-worthy, per insiders. Clos du Bourg wines lie somewhere in between the others in terms of youthful approachability and minerality. Gaston Huet, the estate’s famous winemaker for 55 years, considered Clos du Bourg to be the greatest vineyard in Vouvray.
 
2016 was a difficult vintage for the estate, having lost nearly half the crop in a late frost, but the resulting wines are stunning: complex and concentrated. The moelleux-style wines in particular are magnificent, showing impeccable balance with lush flavors. The wines received rave reviews from multiple outlets upon release and are just entering their long drinking windows. We’ve shortened the reviews below for brevity, but you can shop and read the full text on our webstore!
 
In Stock & On Sale Now:
 
Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Le Haut Lieu’ Moelleux 2016 750ml Was $49, Now $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points
“Gorgeous crystallized ginger, dried quince, glazed pear and warm persimmon notes are seamlessly interwoven here, gliding through a lengthy finish that picks up a lilting green tea accent. Frankly off-dry but wonderfully pure. Drink now through 2035.”
 
Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Le Mont’ Moelleux 2016 750ml Was $59, Now $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 96 points
“Bright, even exuberant in feel, with a parade of Jonagold apple, green melon, Bosc pear and quince flavors streaming through, gilded with heather, honeysuckle and verbena notes on the long, lithe finish. Remarkably elegant despite the off-dry style. Drink now through 2035.”
 
Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Clos du Bourg’ Premiere Trie Moelleux 2016 750ml Was $69, Now $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 96 points
“This is ripe and broad, taking a slightly more power-driven approach, with a mix of tropical mango and papaya fruit, backed by orchard fruit accents of yellow apple and peach. The long, heather honey–accented finish has light piecrust and crystalized ginger hints. Best from 2020 through 2035.”
 
Shop our 190 wines on our Close-Out Sale now!
 

 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
Molitor in Urzig
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock Molitor selections from Urzig
10% off any 9 or more in-stock Molitor selections from Urzig
 
Peter William
 
5% off any 6-11 in-stock bottles of Peter William
10% off any 12 or more in-stock bottles of Peter William

 
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Molitor in Urzig sale ends Friday, July 12th at 9 am Pacific. Peter William sale ends Saturday, July 13th at 9 am Pacific.

Peter William Vineyard: Value & Deliciousness

Peter William: Your Three-Day Discount Starts Now
 
Peter William Vineyard and wineglassDid you know that the Rogue Valley is Oregon’s oldest winemaking region? Unlike the Willamette Valley, which focuses on Burgundian varietals and winemaking techniques (and a fair number of Burgundian winemakers themselves!), the Rogue Valley boasts one of the most diverse selection of styles and grapes in any established winemaking region in America. The 100 or so wineries that call it home emphasize sustainability.
 
It’s high elevation, reaching up to 2,300 feet, with a relatively short growing season. Full-time physician Dr. Peter Adesman, owner of the Peter William winery, cites the short growing season, “wide diurnal swings along with the well-drained soils” as what makes this the perfect area for Tempranillo, per his discussion with Norm Roby of Wine Review Online.
 
Dr. Adesman and his wife, Dr. Robin Miller, planted the vineyard in 2013 after decades of work collecting, consuming, and educating on wine. They grow Roussanne, Grenache, Syrah, Tempranillo, and Malbec at the estate and purchase from other Rogue Valley vineyards. The resulting wines are enjoyable and approachable, both in terms of drinkability and cost. So, think outside the WV box and stock up on some delicious Rhone-, Loire Valley-, and Rioja-inspired gems.
 
5% off any 6-11 in-stock bottles of Peter William
10% off any 12 or more in-stock bottles of Peter William

 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Sale ends Saturday, July 13th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer eleven options from Peter William on sale now, including:
 
Peter William Roussanne Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2023 750ml Displayed Price: $19.50, that’s $18.53 at 5% off and $17.55 at 10% off, 33 bottles in stock now
Winery note
“This small batch (30 cases) of Peter William Roussanne was produced from our hillside vineyard, overlooking the beautiful Rogue Valley.”
 
Peter William Sauvignon Blanc labelThis is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Sauvignon Blanc, Rogue Valley 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $21.90, that’s $20.81 at 5% off and $19.71 at 10% off, 35 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote:
Their second vintage of Sauvignon Blanc, this is made in the style of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc and shows grassy and flinty notes.
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Viognier Daisy Creek Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 27 bottles in stock now
Michael Alberty-Wine Enthusiast 93 points
“The Daisy Creek Viognier is consistently one of the best white wine values in Oregon. This year’s model starts off with pear, butterscotch and talc aromas. Blazing acidity shines through as flavors like grilled pineapple, Thai basil and blood orange sorbet sashay across the palate.”
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 93 points “Over recent vintages this winery has worked with this small vineyard east of Jacksonville and together the combination is a winner.  This is attractive as a not too Viognier: not too ripe and exotic, not too oaky, not too high in alcohol, and not too overpowering.  In other words, it is a solid, food friendly Viognier.  The color is a light straw and the aroma offers lovely ripe pear and melon with an intriguing touch of ginger.  Medium bodied, the wine expands on the palate again with pear along with lychee and honeysuckle flavors.  Crisp and balanced, it finishes with long lasting pear and ginger in the aftertaste.  Though attractive now, this is one beautifully balanced Viognier that should age well for at least 5 years.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Grenache Rosé Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2023 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery Note
“The wine shows bright, pretty strawberry & light cherry fruit on the nose and palate. Ample acid brightens the fruit flavors and will allow this wine to hold up in the bottle.”
No reviews for the 2023 vintage. 2022 review provided for reference.
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 93 points “From the family’s estate vineyard, this wine was made by Eric Weisinger at his winery in Ashland.  The Rosé category has been surging over recent years and one of the intriguing sub plots relates to color.  Does a Rosé wine have to be pink?  Apparently not, as more and more winemakers work with Rosés.  This wine has a slight copper color in the clear bottle, but when in the glass looks even lighter.  But it is no wimpy Rosé.  Once you get over that lack of color, this wine gets your attention by offering an enticing youthful fragrance of fresh raspberry along with floral notes, and delicious flavors of berries and spice.  Medium bodied and vibrant, it finishes with a lingering touch of acidity.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Grenache Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2020 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 23 bottles in stock now
Michael Alberty-Wine Enthusiast 90 points
“After 10 months in neutral French oak, this Grenache is eager to make friends. Its dark chocolate and meaty aromas will make you crave pork mole. The flavors are a tangy combination of boysenberry and orange zest, with bits of tobacco and ginger. Boisterous acidity intersects with firm tannins.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William GSM Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 19 bottles in stock now
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 94 points
“Though I hesitate to review limited production wines, this GSM is so attractive it would be wrong to overlook it.  Only 144 cases were made in this blend of 42% Grenache, 33% Syrah and 25% Mourvedre.  The first two components are from the estate vineyard, with the Mourvedre from the Folin Vineyard.  Aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak, it has been bottle aged for 2 years prior to being released.  It begins with an enchanting aroma of ripe fruit with earthiness, tobacco and floral notes.  The flavors are similar with light black pepper and subtle oak poking through as an added subtle layer.  Overall, the wine is harmonious and nuanced, but should repay short-term cellaring.  The finish is long with some youthful fruit, oak and well-integrated tannins.”
Michael Alberty-Wine Enthusiast 91 points “This GSM, made with fruit from Peter William and Folin Vineyards, spent 20 months in French oak, 50% new and 50% neutral. It is lithe and lean, with aromas of poppies and lavender melding with blackberry tea. Raspberry and tart cherry flavors are flanked by bacon fat and cardamom.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Malbec Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $28, that’s $26.60 at 5% off and $25.20 at 10% off, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 90 points
“Aromas of vanilla, baking spice and plum lead to a palate that mixes fruit and barrel, with plump-feeling flavors. Vanilla notes linger on the finish. Fruit and barrel walk hand in hand.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Malbec Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $30.90, that’s $29.36 at 5% off and $27.81 at 10% off, 10 bottles in stock now
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 92 points
“Unable to decide which vintage should be released first, the winery decided to offer both its 2018 and 2019 Malbec at the same time and price.  Both are from the same vineyard block made by the same winemaker.  Both were aged 18 months in 30% new oak barrels.  The major difference is the oak; in 2018 it was American, whereas the oak in 2019 is French.  The differences were subtle, but with time in the glass the 2019 displayed more finesse and complexity.  It comes across as a pretty, elegant Malbec with spiced dark plum fruit and baking spice flavors, refined, smooth tannin and light oak.  Overall, the 2019 has more polish and a potential to develop with short term cellaring.”
Winery Note “Our only Bordeaux Varietal, most often seen on its own from Argentina. This is a big, bold mouth-filling wine of great depth.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Peter William PWV ‘Extravagance’ Proprietary Reserve Red Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 8 bottles in stock now
Peter William PWV Extravagance Red labelNorm Roby-Wine Review Online 94 points “It may be going on elsewhere, but Southern Oregon sure seems to be a hotbed of creative winemaking energy leading to fascinating blends and unusual wines.  One that caught my attention is rarely seen outside of Australia and Spain: a 50-50 blend of Tempranillo and Syrah.  The latter was grown in the estate vineyard and the Tempranillo sourced from Coventina Vineyard on the western edge of the Valley.  Aged for 21 months in French oak, the wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered.  The 2018 growing season was long, and late season warmth yielded wines that are ripe and rich.  This intriguing blend turns out to be delicious red wine with both depth and charm.  It comes across as ripe, plush Syrah built on a Tempranillo framework, meaning it has Syrah’s black fruit and hint of leather and pepper but is held in check with good structure and balance.  Slight oak toast adds to the finish.”
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “This is a 50-50 blend of Tempranillo and Syrah from the estate vineyard. Showcasing what are arguably the top two red grapes from the Rogue, this does not shy away from new oak (50% for 22 months) but has the muscle and fruit to stand up to it. Toasty, dark and tannic, it’s loaded with black cherry, mocha and smoky cedar flavors. It’s a big, bold red that’s ready for anything you put on the smoker.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Syrah Lot W Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $19, that’s $18.05 at 5% off and $17.10 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 94 points
“This small batch Syrah is made from estate grown grapes which are vinified by winemaker Eric Weisinger, who is the “W” referenced on the label. The end result is a compact, powerful expression of Syrah that may be one of the best values around these days. It is pure, ripe Syrah beginning with its dark color and earthy, leathery, black pepper aromatics. It evolves in the glass and is full of black fruits and spices delivered in a compact, medium full bodied style. It was aged in American oak (30% new) and the light toasty flavor adds a little intrigue to the ripe berry and slightly floral notes in the aftertaste. Although it should be wonderfully complex in 3 to 4 years, it is nevertheless outstanding now.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Peter William Tempranillo Lot W Peter William Vineyard, Rogue Valley 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $24, that’s $22.80 at 5% off and $21.60 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
“A distinctly earthy nose features interesting notes of crushed black-walnut shells, smoked cherries and a touch of mint. The flavors of ripe black cherries, leather and almond extract are encircled by a wall of grippy tannins. Decanting is recommended.” -Wine Enthusiast
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Shop our eleven Peter William selections on sale now on our webstore!
 

 
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
 
Produttori del Barbaresco
 
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
 
Molitor in Urzig
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock Molitor selections from Urzig
10% off any 9 or more in-stock Molitor selections from Urzig

 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Produttori del Barbaresco sale ends Thursday, July 11th at 9 am Pacific. Molitor in Urzig sale ends Friday, July 12th at 9 am Pacific.

Ürzig Through Molitor’s Lens 7-9-24

Molitor in Ürzig
 
Your Three-Day Discount Starts Now

 
After 35 years at the helm of the family business, Markus Molitor remains one of the most respected winemakers in the world. With broad holdings, Molitor crafts dozens of wines each vintage. He believes that every single sub-parcel and selective pick should be vinified to its utmost potential. What results is a deeply rewarding if sprawling portfolio.
 
Whether white capsule (dry), green capsule (off-dry), or gold capsule (fruity to nobly sweet), Markus’ wines represent some of the Mosel’s best. And thanks to his extensive holdings, Molitor offers German Riesling lovers with a passport to explore many of the region’s most important vineyards. How to choose? Let us guide you through the wines in our village-by-village tour on our three-day sale!
 
Ürzig & Ürziger Würzgarten:
 
Urzig Map from MolitorThere is no other vineyard in the Mosel that results in wines so intensely spicy, earthy and so richly tropical than Ürziger Würzgarten, in the village of Ürzig. The lightness and elegance of the fruit is impossible to replicate. Even wines from its storied neighbor, Erdener Treppchen, are a wholly different animal. Ürziger Würzgarten is famous for the high percentage of iron in the soil in addition to its blue and gray slate, contributing a spicy characteristic that proves its name (Ürziger Würzgarten translates to “the spice garden of Ürzig”). Molitor’s wines in particular rank among the best examples from the vineyard. His holdings include those of the former Jos. Christoffel Jr., whose estate dates to the 12th century.
 
Despite their sheer deliciousness of these wines in their youth, do try to be patient: the return on investment could not be greater. The citrus and honeyed white fruit, the pure mineral backbone, and the fountain of youth-like freshness that accompanies these bottles is without compare. Fortunately, for you, these wines are ridiculously undervalued and will provide decades of delight to come for such a small tariff.
 
We’re offering all of our Molitor wines from the village of Urzig on our three-day sale. Stock up and explore the terroir-driven wines from one of German’s most famous winemakers!
 
5% off any 4-8 in-stock Molitor selections from Ürzig
10% off any 9 or more in-stock Molitor selections from Ürzig

 
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.

 
Sale ends Friday, July 12th at 9 am Pacific.
 
We offer eighteen Molitor wines from Ürzig, including:
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Kabinett Trocken (White Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $28, that’s $26.60 at 5% off and $25.20 at 10% off, 33 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points
“The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Kabinett (White Capsule) is highly refined and almost floral in its precisely slatey and flinty finesse that integrates very fine Riesling aromas. Everything seems to be in a young style for this wine that is pure, structured and dry, with a lovely mix of tannins, crystalline slate acidity and lingering salinity. This is not really fragile like, say, a Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr; instead, it’s filigreed and has strong bones. Fine tannins structure the fresh and lemony yet rich finish. A serious terroir wine with just 10.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Kabinett Feinherb (Green Capsule) 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $28, that’s $26.60 at 5% off and $25.20 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock now
David Schildknecht-Vinous 93 points
“The nose of strawberry laced with basil, mint and cress presages an infectiously juicy, soothingly cooling and invigoratingly incisive palate impression. Low alcohol guarantees levity, yet as with other “green chip” Kabinetts in this collection, sweetness is very subtly supportive. The multifaceted, impressively sustained finish in fact flirts with outright weightlessness, the herbal essences joined by floral perfume for a strikingly inhalative impression yet without neglecting sheer refreshment.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Kabinett (Gold Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $26, that’s $24.70 at 5% off and $23.40 at 10% off, 23 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92 points
“From the higher parts of the cru, the 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Kabinett (Golden Capsule) is clear, bright, intense and fruity on the elegant, slatey nose. The palate is lush, round and aromatic as well as refined, and the sweetness is balanced by the delicate, vivid, crystalline acidity. The finish is stimulatingly salty. A lovely wine that I would keep for some years, though the 2019 already drinks very well. Tasted in May 2021.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese Trocken (White Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $29.90, that’s $28.41 at 5% off and $26.91 at 10% off, 19 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93+ points
“The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Spätlese (White Capsule) already shows on the nose its perfect ripeness and elegant richness in a highly refined and enormously flinty, even tannic manner. The palate is very elegant, lush and ripe yet most of all vibrantly fresh and salty-piquant, revealing a salivating, firmly structured and tannic finish. This is a Würzgarten to keep for at least 3-4 years before opening. Tasted in May 2021.”
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spätlese (Gold Capsule) 2017 750ml Displayed Price: $39, that’s $37.05 at 5% off and $35.10 at 10% off, 21 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points
“The 2017 Riesling Ürziger Würzgarten Spätlese (Golden Capsule) is complex and mineral on the densely woven yet fresh and crunchy-herbal nose. It’s a dense, concentrated, piquant and structured Spätlese with lush and ripe fruit whose sweetness is nearly completely absorbed by the Würzgarten raciness and iron-rich terroir character. This is a fabulous Spätlese! Tasted in April 2019.”
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese ** Trocken (White Capsule) 2017 750ml Was $59, Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 24 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96+ points
“Bottled with moderate 11% alcohol, the 2017 Riesling Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese ** (White Capsule) is crystalline and super precise on the clear and flinty nose that exhibits crunchy, iron-rich stone and lime zest aromas. It is lean and fresh but dense and intense on the palate, with ripe, round and concentrated Riesling fruit, some sweetness and refined acidity. This is an elegant, highly finessed and stimulating Würzgarten with a lingering, salty-piquant finish. This wine pairs its moderate alcohol level with great complexity and mineral tension. It’s a fabulous yet still very young Würzgarten of extraordinary class and style. Tasted in March and April 2019.”
Note from Mosel Fine Wines “The 2017er Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese ** (White Capsule) comes from the Estate’s parcel in the prime Kranklay sector.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese ** Trocken (White Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $54.50, that’s $51.78 at 5% off and $49.05 at 10% off, 21 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points
“he 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese ** (White Capsule) is deep, pure, fresh and flinty as well as floral on the dense and complex nose. Round, lush and elegant on the palate, this is a salty, piquant and textural Würzgarten with dramatic tension and grip. This is a gorgeous, highly potential dry Riesling with lingering salinity and serious tannin grip. I highly recommended cellaring this for 5-10 years. Tasted in May 2021.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese ** (Gold Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $49, that’s $46.55 at 5% off and $44.10 at 10% off, 24 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points
“The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese ** (Golden Capsule) is another absolutely brilliant Riesling that opens incredibly pure and coolish with a perfume of crushed slate and lemon verbena notes on the dense, stony and herbal nose. Succulent yet refined and elegant on the superbly balanced and seamless palate, this is a generous yet refined Auslese with subtle yet sustainable mineral finesse and energy. Stimulatingly salty and crystalline on the airy finish. Tasted from AP 89 20 in May 2021.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Auslese *** (Gold Capsule) 2019 750ml Displayed Price: $125, that’s $118.75 at 5% off and $112.50 at 10% off, 19 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 98+ points
“The golden-yellow-colored 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) is highly refined and perfectly precise on the nose that has slate and herbal notes as well as very fine Riesling aromas. Lush and generous on the sweet and concentrated palate yet super fine and with stimulating grip, this is an utterly refined and salivating Auslese with an enormously long, complex and stimulating grippy and salty finish. Gorgeous and mouth-titillating. Tasted in May 2021.”
 
Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Beerenauslese 2017 375ml Displayed Price: $149, that’s $141.55 at 5% off and $134.10 at 10% off, 6 half-bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 100 points
“The 2017 Riesling Ürziger Würzgarten Beerenauslese opens with a very clear, elegant, highly aromatic and finessed bouquet of ripe tropical and domestic fruits intermixed with stony notes. On the palate, this is a lush and salty-piquant BA with great mineral vitality and lingering energy on the finish. What a filigreed, lean, finessed and light-footed sweet wine with refreshing grapefruit notes on the nose and palate. This is incredibly elegant and refined, and I can’t imagine this BA could have been done any better. It’s incredibly charming and will tickle your palate now and forever. Tasted at the domain in April 2019.”
 
This is the only listing in the USA today!
 
Shop our eighteen Molitor wines from Ürzig on sale now on our webstore!
 

 
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