In This Newsletter:
New Arrival
Dehu: The Marne’s Master of Meunier!
Just Arrived!
New Wines from Muller-Catoir
Star of the Pfalz
New Bordeaux Arrivals
Collector’s Corner:
100-Point Romanée St-Vivant
New Reviews for COS
Ovum: The Great Whites of Oregon Wine
Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino:
Cresti’s Top Super-Tuscan offering en route!
Prudhon: The Paragon of Under-the-Radar Burgundy
Paolo Scavino:
Barolo’s Modern-ish Master
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New Arrival
Dehu: The Marne’s Master of Meunier!
At a time when sparkling winemaking is practiced more or less by every single major growing region in the world, Champagne continues to reign supreme. If one considers the new releases from Dehu, that crown is going nowhere soon.
Representing the 8th generation of champenois vigneron in the family, Benoit Dehu first cut his teeth at the Grand Marquis house Bollinger before striking out on his own in 2010, with his first release the following year. Working off of his family holdings in the Marne, with barrels made from the forest bordering the property, these are grower champagnes at their finest. The majority of his grapes are sourced from his Rue De Noyers vineyard, which has recently expanded into a small assortment of Pinot Noir beyond its exclusive planting to Meunier. Dehu has been blessed with the characteristic terroir of the Marne that contributes to his wine’s incredible aromatics and structure, namely the green clay overlaying pure limestone chalk. Eschewing new oak for aging, dosage for flavoring and intervention in general, these are some of the purest expressions of terroir you’ll ever find.
Working with less than 2 hectares of estate the production is incredibly small yet meticulous, incorporating biodynamic farming and almost 70% plowed by horse. At less than 4,000 cases made every year, it’s a small miracle we were even able to acquire the amounts we did. We are offering a range of Dehu’s flagship wines, from his 100% Meunier Rose De Saignee and Rue des Noyers to his Pinot Noir-included project; Initiation. The Rose is especially rare having been made only once prior in the history of the vineyard! Given the majority of Pinot Meunier at play with these wines, you can expect a mineral and spice driven champagne that has decades of aging potential ahead of them (If you can wait that long we won’t judge). For the serious collector we also have a smattering of magnums from the Rue Des Noyers, but quantities are extremely limited!
In Stock now:
Benoit Dehu Cuvee de La Rue des Noyers Rose Champagne NV (2018) 750ML (149.95) $128 special
Representing the 8th generation of champenois vigneron in the family, Benoit Dehu first cut his teeth at the Grand Marquis house Bollinger before striking out on his own in 2010, with his first release the following year. Working off of his family holdings in the Marne, with barrels made from the forest bordering the property, these are grower champagnes at their finest. The majority of his grapes are sourced from his Rue De Noyers vineyard, which has recently expanded into a small assortment of Pinot Noir beyond its exclusive planting to Meunier. Dehu has been blessed with the characteristic terroir of the Marne that contributes to his wine’s incredible aromatics and structure, namely the green clay overlaying pure limestone chalk. Eschewing new oak for aging, dosage for flavoring and intervention in general, these are some of the purest expressions of terroir you’ll ever find.
Working with less than 2 hectares of estate the production is incredibly small yet meticulous, incorporating biodynamic farming and almost 70% plowed by horse. At less than 4,000 cases made every year, it’s a small miracle we were even able to acquire the amounts we did. We are offering a range of Dehu’s flagship wines, from his 100% Meunier Rose De Saignee and Rue des Noyers to his Pinot Noir-included project; Initiation. The Rose is especially rare having been made only once prior in the history of the vineyard! Given the majority of Pinot Meunier at play with these wines, you can expect a mineral and spice driven champagne that has decades of aging potential ahead of them (If you can wait that long we won’t judge). For the serious collector we also have a smattering of magnums from the Rue Des Noyers, but quantities are extremely limited!
In Stock now:
Benoit Dehu Cuvee de La Rue des Noyers Rose Champagne NV (2018) 750ML (149.95) $128 special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Benoit Dehu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ Champagne NV (2016) 750ML (199.95) $89 special
93+ Points Antonio Galloni “Benoit Déhu NV (2014) Extra Brut Cuvée La Rue des Noyers Non-Dosé is bright, powerful and tightly wound. A wine of energy and vibrancy, the 2014 is going to need at least a few years to be at its very best. Even so, its potential today is evident. The Meunier character is pronounced, but it is the wine’s salivating minerality that gives shape, focus and cut. What a gorgeous wine this. Disgorged on August 4, 2017 with no dosage.”
Importer note “Benoit is an eighth generation vigneron that returned to the family estate after working for Bollinger. He is committed to natural farming and aims to craft unadultered, pure Pinot Meunier. He purchased this 1.7 hectare vineyard and farms it biodynamically. The results are exceptional and we are thrilled to introduce Benoit’s work to our clients. The Cuvee La Rue de Noyers, named for the walnut trees that line the parcel, is a wine that will keep you intrigued and coming back for more. Organically farmed Pinot Meunier, 1.7 hectares farmed biodynamically. A quarter of the property is worked with a horse named Violette. Vinified in oak barrels, many of which are made from trees from the forest of Fossoy. No malo, no dosage, unfined and unfiltered.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Only 7 Bottles in stock now
Benoit Dehu ‘Initiation’ Brut Nature Champagne NV 750ML (2016) ($89.95) $75 special
94 Points Antonio Galloni “Benoit Déhu’s NV [2016] Initiation is a blend of 78% Pinot Noir and 22% Meunier. Ample and resonant in feel, the 2016 retains a gorgeous sense of transparency as well. Floral and spice inflections build as the 2016 shows off its multi-faceted, exotic personality. The non-dosage style works perfectly here. Initiation is one of the most singular Champagnes I tasted all year. Don’t miss it. No dosage.”
Importer note “Cuvée Initiation is the newest addition to the Déhu lineup. Made from his signature variety Pinot Meunier and 25% Pinot Noir, which Benoît planted using massale selection of Pommard clone from Burgundy. Oak vinification and ageing, unfined and unfiltered, low dosage. The wines is zippy and round with a persistent finish. Sourced from a small parcel at the bottom of the hill which Benoît planted using massale selection of Pommard clone from Burgundy.
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Only 4 bottles in stock now
Benoit Dehu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ Champagne NV (2014) 750ML ($199.95) $89 special
93+ Points Antonio Galloni “Benoit Déhu NV (2014) Extra Brut Cuvée La Rue des Noyers Non-Dosé is bright, powerful and tightly wound. A wine of energy and vibrancy, the 2014 is going to need at least a few years to be at its very best. Even so, its potential today is evident. The Meunier character is pronounced, but it is the wine’s salivating minerality that gives shape, focus and cut. What a gorgeous wine this. Disgorged on August 4, 2017 with no dosage.”
Importer note “Benoit is an eighth generation vigneron that returned to the family estate after working for Bollinger. He is committed to natural farming and aims to craft unadultered, pure Pinot Meunier. He purchased this 1.7 hectare vineyard and farms it biodynamically. The results are exceptional and we are thrilled to introduce Benoit’s work to our clients. The Cuvee La Rue de Noyers, named for the walnut trees that line the parcel, is a wine that will keep you intrigued and coming back for more. Organically farmed Pinot Meunier, 1.7 hectares farmed biodynamically. A quarter of the property is worked with a horse named Violette. Vinified in oak barrels, many of which are made from trees from the forest of Fossoy. No malo, no dosage, unfined and unfiltered.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Benoit Dehu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ Champagne NV (2015) 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
94 Points Antonio Galloni “The NV (2015) Extra Brut Cuvée La Rue des Noyers speaks with real authority, and yet the 2015 is one of the more delicate versions of this cuvée so far. Time in the glass allows the wine to blossom nicely. Dried pear, smoke, herbs and dried flowers fill out the wine’s creamy frame effortlessly. Once again, the Rue des Noyers is one of the most distinctive wines in Champagne. Dosage is 1 grams per liter. Disgorged: July 2017.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Just Arrived!
New Wines from Muller-Catoir
Star of the Pfalz
Every wine region in the world has one or two estates that immediately come to mind when you hear the name of the region: Chateau Margaux in Margaux, Romanee-Conti in Vosne-Romanee, and Donnhoff in the Nahe. Muller-Catoir occupies that space in the Pfalz region of Germany.
The Pfalz as a region focused on powerful, dry wines long before it was fashionable. The wines we’re highlighting today are some of the best values in the world for breathtakingly mineral wines. Muller-Catoir owns some of the greatest vineyards in the region and has a special touch with them.
From grand, aristocratic Riesling to wild and exciting Scheurebe to the best Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder) in the world, Muller-Catoir’s wines are top of the class in every category—and excellent value as well. 2018 was an excellent vintage for the region and the wines are powerful, focused and intense—the perfect sort of year for the Pfalz. Additionally, the style of the vintage seems to lend itself to drinking young—there is a warmth to the year that means that these are just absolutely delicious right now.
In Stock Now:
Muller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten ‘Im Breumel’ Riesling Grosses Gewächs, Pfalz 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
93+ Points Stephen Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “White-golden in color, pure, fine, deep and intense on the palate, the 2018 Riesling Bürgergarten “Im Breumel” GG is intense, concentrated and generous on the nose. The palate is pure, very intense and ripe as well as powerful but refined and concentrated. Very elegant and salty, with grip and tension. Tasted in Haardt, December 2019.”
Winery Note “The age-worthy Riesling wines from this prime section of the Haardt Bürgergarten are characterised by the optimal balance between a concentrated Riesling fruit, lingering minerality, a delicate elegance and an elaborately interwoven, long finish – Riesling to perfection.”
The Pfalz as a region focused on powerful, dry wines long before it was fashionable. The wines we’re highlighting today are some of the best values in the world for breathtakingly mineral wines. Muller-Catoir owns some of the greatest vineyards in the region and has a special touch with them.
From grand, aristocratic Riesling to wild and exciting Scheurebe to the best Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder) in the world, Muller-Catoir’s wines are top of the class in every category—and excellent value as well. 2018 was an excellent vintage for the region and the wines are powerful, focused and intense—the perfect sort of year for the Pfalz. Additionally, the style of the vintage seems to lend itself to drinking young—there is a warmth to the year that means that these are just absolutely delicious right now.
In Stock Now:
Muller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten ‘Im Breumel’ Riesling Grosses Gewächs, Pfalz 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
93+ Points Stephen Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “White-golden in color, pure, fine, deep and intense on the palate, the 2018 Riesling Bürgergarten “Im Breumel” GG is intense, concentrated and generous on the nose. The palate is pure, very intense and ripe as well as powerful but refined and concentrated. Very elegant and salty, with grip and tension. Tasted in Haardt, December 2019.”
Winery Note “The age-worthy Riesling wines from this prime section of the Haardt Bürgergarten are characterised by the optimal balance between a concentrated Riesling fruit, lingering minerality, a delicate elegance and an elaborately interwoven, long finish – Riesling to perfection.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Muller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten Riesling Trocken Pfalz, 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
90+ Points Stephen Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “The 2018 Riesling Bürgergarten “VDP. Erste Lage” needed three bottles to convince me until it opened clear, pure and intense, with crushed stones and fresh ginger aromas on the nose. Pure, fresh and bright on the palate, this is a lithe, lush and salty dry Riesling with refreshing mineral grip and tension on the finish. Tasted in Haardt, December 2019.”
Winery Note “Shades of minerality and the deep fruitiness of ripe stone fruit characterise this Riesling from Bu¨rgergarten. The 40-year-old vines ensure the perfect combination of concentration and refinement in its full, captivating body.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Muller-Catoir Gimmeldingen Riesling Pfalz 2018 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Winery Note “The well-balanced and delicately structured Gimmeldingen Riesling makes a floral and juicy impression, with hints of white peach and jasmine.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Muller-Catoir Haardt Grauburgunder Pfalz 2018 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special
Winery Note “Thanks to its crystal clear melon and apple bouquet, and juicy body with a subtle nutty aftertaste, the Haardt Grauburgunder can be combined with modern cuisine in many different ways.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Muller-Catoir Haardter Riesling Trocken Pfalz 2018 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
89 Points Stephen Reinhardt-Wine Advocate “The 2018 Riesling Haardt opens with an attractive intense and flinty bouquet of ripe white/pink peaches and orange peels. Concentrated and with stewed fruit flavors on the palate, this is a very fresh, pure and salty Riesling with stimulating mineral grip on the finish. Tasted in Haardt, December 2019.”
Winery Note “The mineral-rich Haardt Riesling has a distinctive body, and its bouquet possesses typical yellow fruit notes, such as apricots and ripe peaches.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Muller-Catoir Haardter Mandelring Scheurebe Spatlese Pfalz 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Winery Note “Ripe, tropical fruit notes of grapefruit, pineapple and papaya characterise the juicy Scheurebe from the Haardt Mandelring with its luminous combination of sweet and sour in the finish.”
Winery Note “Ripe, tropical fruit notes of grapefruit, pineapple and papaya characterise the juicy Scheurebe from the Haardt Mandelring with its luminous combination of sweet and sour in the finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
New Bordeaux Arrivals
Leoville Barton is one of the standouts for classically-styled Left Bank bottles, especially in a top vintage like 2015.
Chateau Leoville Barton Saint-Julien 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 11 bottles in stock now
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck “I absolutely loved the 2015 Léoville Barton and this has everything you could want from a Left Bank Bordeaux. Cassis, smoked earth, graphite, tobacco leaf, and thrilling amounts of minerality all emerge from this inky colored, full-bodied, power-packed, brut of a Saint-Julien that holds everything together and stays pure, balanced and elegant on the palate. It has a lot of tannins, yet more than enough fruit. The 2015 is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, brought up in 60% new French oak, and it needs 7-8 years of bottle age and will shine for 2-3 decades. Bravo! Drink: 2026-2056.”
97 Points Wine Enthusiast “Cellar Selection. Rich, generous and elegant, this is a very dense wine but with great black fruits to balance this structure. The elements are already coming together to create another great wine from this property. Drink from 2026.”
96+ Points Antonio Galloni “A dense, powerful wine, the 2015 Léoville-Barton is going to need quite a bit of time to come together, as it is massively tannic and structured at this stage. Drink: 2025-2055.”
96 Points James Suckling “This is a very focused Barton with ultra-fine tannins that are so polished and chalky. It drives through the center palate with currant and berry character. Full-bodied, polished and straightforward with driving tannin. Love the texture. Class. Yes. Drink in 2021.”
With a star winemaking team and excellent terroir, this is one of the bargains of St. Estephe.
Chateau Le Crock Saint-Estephe 2016 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 22 bottles in stock now
94 Points Wine Enthusiast-ROGER VOSS”Cellar Sellection. Under the same management as Château Léoville-Poyferré in Saint-Julien, this estate belongs to the Cuvelier family. With its structured Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is made to age. Big tannins and concentrated fruits are full and dense.”
92 Points Wine Spectator “Well-built, featuring dark plum and blackberry coulis flavors that impart a dark yet racy feel, while light charcoal, chalk and wet pebble notes keep the finish grounded in terroir. An echo of tobacco rings throughout.”
Chateau Leoville Barton Saint-Julien 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 11 bottles in stock now
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck “I absolutely loved the 2015 Léoville Barton and this has everything you could want from a Left Bank Bordeaux. Cassis, smoked earth, graphite, tobacco leaf, and thrilling amounts of minerality all emerge from this inky colored, full-bodied, power-packed, brut of a Saint-Julien that holds everything together and stays pure, balanced and elegant on the palate. It has a lot of tannins, yet more than enough fruit. The 2015 is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, brought up in 60% new French oak, and it needs 7-8 years of bottle age and will shine for 2-3 decades. Bravo! Drink: 2026-2056.”
97 Points Wine Enthusiast “Cellar Selection. Rich, generous and elegant, this is a very dense wine but with great black fruits to balance this structure. The elements are already coming together to create another great wine from this property. Drink from 2026.”
96+ Points Antonio Galloni “A dense, powerful wine, the 2015 Léoville-Barton is going to need quite a bit of time to come together, as it is massively tannic and structured at this stage. Drink: 2025-2055.”
96 Points James Suckling “This is a very focused Barton with ultra-fine tannins that are so polished and chalky. It drives through the center palate with currant and berry character. Full-bodied, polished and straightforward with driving tannin. Love the texture. Class. Yes. Drink in 2021.”
With a star winemaking team and excellent terroir, this is one of the bargains of St. Estephe.
Chateau Le Crock Saint-Estephe 2016 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 22 bottles in stock now
94 Points Wine Enthusiast-ROGER VOSS”Cellar Sellection. Under the same management as Château Léoville-Poyferré in Saint-Julien, this estate belongs to the Cuvelier family. With its structured Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is made to age. Big tannins and concentrated fruits are full and dense.”
92 Points Wine Spectator “Well-built, featuring dark plum and blackberry coulis flavors that impart a dark yet racy feel, while light charcoal, chalk and wet pebble notes keep the finish grounded in terroir. An echo of tobacco rings throughout.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Beausejour Duffau’s second wine, it shows off the purity and power of the 2016 vintage with style.
Duffau-Lagarrosse Croix de Beausejour Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2016 750ML ($59.95) $44 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Croix de Beausejour Saint Emilion Grand Cru – Second Wine of Beausejour Duffau
James Suckling 94 points “The clarity and freshness to this is most impressive with fresh herbs and hints of tobacco on the nose and palate. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a radiant finish. Second wine of Château Beauséjour. Drink in 2023.”
Need Champagne to go with that Bordeaux? We also just received a small tranche of 2007 Taittinger Comtes:
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne750ML ($179.95) $125 special, 8 bottles in stock now
98 Points The Champagne Guide “”(disgorged October 2015) After the might of 2005 and 2006, there is a pretty elegance to 2007 that I find thrillingly compelling, and it’s captured in pinpoint detail in this enchanting Comtes. The theme here is fragrant finesse of youthful lemon blossom, touched with delightful notes of brioche, marzipan and almond. The chalk mineral signature of Comtes rumbles with the ancient geological history of the finest grand crus of the Côtes des Blancs. Still pale in hue at a decade of age, this is my style of Comtes. Turn down the lights and the music and pour it for the one you love most.”
96 Points Antonio Galloni “Taittinger’s 2007 Comtes de Champagne will be nearly impossible to resist upon release. Soaring aromatics, mid-weight structure and soft contours give the 2007 its alluring personality. Lemon oil, white flowers, mint, chamomile and green pear add brightness and freshness throughout, with a persistent, clean finish that makes it impossible to resist a second taste. Today, the 2007 comes across as a slightly more open version of the 2004, with freshness that makes that wine so appealing, and a touch of textural richness that recalls the 2002. Although the 2007 does not have the explosive energy or verticality of the profound 2006, it will drink better earlier. The 2007 has been positively brilliant on the three occasions I have tasted it so far.”
96 Points Decanter “The 2007 Comtes de Champagne is an astonishing Champagne. With aromas of dried flowers, chamomile and plenty of freshness, the bouquet is complex and dense. The fine and pure texture on the palate is supported by a chalk and iodine finish.”
95 Points William Kelley-Wine Advocate “The 2007 Brut Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne continues to show very well, and it hasn’t evolved appreciably since I last tasted it a few months ago. Revealing a pretty bouquet of lemon oil, lily pollen, dried white flowers, blanched almonds and crushed chalk, it’s medium to full-bodied, chiseled and tensile, with excellent depth at the core, racy acids and a pure, precise and notably chalky finish. Tight-knit without being austere, it’s a very classically balanced middleweight Comtes that has a long future ahead of it.”
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When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you,
please let us know their name when placing your order.)
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info@vinopoliswineshop.com
503-223-6002
Collector’s Corner:
100-Point Romanée St-Vivant
Louis Latour’s reds always represent incredible value—even at the Grand Cru level. A prime example? Their 100-point Romanée-St.-Vivant, which is half the price of other top examples. Bold and deeply aromatic, it’s all we could ask for in a wine from Vosne. This is a wine to bury in the cellar for a decade or two, when it will blossom into one of the stars of your collection.
In Stock Now:
Only ten bottles available
Louis Latour Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru Les Quatre Journaux Cote de Nuits750ML ($699.95) $519 special
James Suckling 100 points “This is a grand cru that shows its intensity and complexity and greatness from the beginning. Blackberry, licorice and stone aromas. Full body and a center palate that shows ripe fruit and full richness. Then the tannins kick in. Great wine. Drink in 2024.”
In Stock Now:
Only ten bottles available
Louis Latour Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru Les Quatre Journaux Cote de Nuits750ML ($699.95) $519 special
James Suckling 100 points “This is a grand cru that shows its intensity and complexity and greatness from the beginning. Blackberry, licorice and stone aromas. Full body and a center palate that shows ripe fruit and full richness. Then the tannins kick in. Great wine. Drink in 2024.”
New Reviews for COS
The wines of COS, in Vittoria (Sicily) occupy a special place in the world of wine. The winery was established in the early 80’s—a time when most of Sicily was trying make big, ripe, California style reds and whites (a lot of Chardonnay and Syrah was planted, to put it mildly) however COS was running the opposite direction, making wines from native Sicilian grapes.
They’ve been an inspiration and mentor to any number of producers that we now think of as important and vanguard (most notably Arianna Occhipinti, niece of the “O” in COS). In addition, they were pioneers in the use of amphora fermentation and aging in Italy and moved in a “natural” direction long before it was cool.
All of that is their wines are unique and yet classic—wines that are at once primally Sicilian and yet uniquely COS, with brilliant minerality and earthy aromas married to beautiful fruit.
In Stock Now:
Azienda Agricola Cos ‘delle Fontane’ Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 7 bottles in stock now
93 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2014 Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico delle Fontane pulls you close with a dark and dusty display of black fruits, exotic spice and dried florals, all enlivened by a lifting hint of fresh mint. This is silky and enveloping, fleshing out across the palate, while ripe wild berries and minerals create a more tactile feel toward the close. Lightly structured and harmonious, as hints of sour citrus and residual acids offset the lingering tart cherry fruit. Sweet tannins frame the experience well. This stunning blend of 60% Nero d’Avola and 40% Frappato is sourced from the best parcels of the COS vineyards in the Fontane area of Vittoria.”
Azienda Agricola Cos Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT Sicily, 2019 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special, 3 bottles in stock now
91 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2018 Frappato needs time in the glass to blow off some of its youthful reduction, as peppery florals give way to crushed blackberry and cherry, complemented by an air of smoky minerals. Soft textures usher in tart red berry fruits, tugging at the senses with saline-minerals and brisk acids. There’s a lasting twang of subtle tannin, as pretty inner florals taper off. This has the potential for medium-term development in the cellar.”
Azienda Agricola Cos ‘Nero di Lupo’ Nero d’Avola Sicilia IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 10 bottles in stock now
89 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2019 Nero di Lupo, a varietal Nero d’Avola, opens up with a blast of crushed black stones, savory herbs, cracked pepper and wild strawberries. It’s soft, juicy and quite lifted, presenting a pure display of wild berries and purple-tinged inner florals, and finishes remarkably fresh and crisp. The Nero di Lupo is unassuming, quite likable, and would be great with just about any cuisine while clocking in at only 10.5% abv.”
Azienda Agricola Cos Pithos Terre Siciliane Bianco IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 11 bottles in stock now
91 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2019 Bianco Pithos, a varietal Grecanico, is a pale golden color in the glass, presenting a nose of pungent spring flowers, musky notes of apricot, pear and a hint of animal musk. This is soft and pliant in feel, with ripe orchard fruits offset by zesty yellow citrus, as a coating of liquid inner florals saturates deeply. Residual acids maintain balance and a juicy persona, as gobs of minerals and gingery spice linger long. The Bianco Pithos spends a month on the skins post-fermentation, followed by another seven months refining in amphora. While this has the sometimes quirky and nervous personality of an orange wine, it’s also very easy to like.”
They’ve been an inspiration and mentor to any number of producers that we now think of as important and vanguard (most notably Arianna Occhipinti, niece of the “O” in COS). In addition, they were pioneers in the use of amphora fermentation and aging in Italy and moved in a “natural” direction long before it was cool.
All of that is their wines are unique and yet classic—wines that are at once primally Sicilian and yet uniquely COS, with brilliant minerality and earthy aromas married to beautiful fruit.
In Stock Now:
Azienda Agricola Cos ‘delle Fontane’ Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 7 bottles in stock now
93 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2014 Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico delle Fontane pulls you close with a dark and dusty display of black fruits, exotic spice and dried florals, all enlivened by a lifting hint of fresh mint. This is silky and enveloping, fleshing out across the palate, while ripe wild berries and minerals create a more tactile feel toward the close. Lightly structured and harmonious, as hints of sour citrus and residual acids offset the lingering tart cherry fruit. Sweet tannins frame the experience well. This stunning blend of 60% Nero d’Avola and 40% Frappato is sourced from the best parcels of the COS vineyards in the Fontane area of Vittoria.”
Azienda Agricola Cos Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT Sicily, 2019 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special, 3 bottles in stock now
91 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2018 Frappato needs time in the glass to blow off some of its youthful reduction, as peppery florals give way to crushed blackberry and cherry, complemented by an air of smoky minerals. Soft textures usher in tart red berry fruits, tugging at the senses with saline-minerals and brisk acids. There’s a lasting twang of subtle tannin, as pretty inner florals taper off. This has the potential for medium-term development in the cellar.”
Azienda Agricola Cos ‘Nero di Lupo’ Nero d’Avola Sicilia IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 10 bottles in stock now
89 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2019 Nero di Lupo, a varietal Nero d’Avola, opens up with a blast of crushed black stones, savory herbs, cracked pepper and wild strawberries. It’s soft, juicy and quite lifted, presenting a pure display of wild berries and purple-tinged inner florals, and finishes remarkably fresh and crisp. The Nero di Lupo is unassuming, quite likable, and would be great with just about any cuisine while clocking in at only 10.5% abv.”
Azienda Agricola Cos Pithos Terre Siciliane Bianco IGT Sicily 2019 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 11 bottles in stock now
91 Points Eric Guido – Vinous “The 2019 Bianco Pithos, a varietal Grecanico, is a pale golden color in the glass, presenting a nose of pungent spring flowers, musky notes of apricot, pear and a hint of animal musk. This is soft and pliant in feel, with ripe orchard fruits offset by zesty yellow citrus, as a coating of liquid inner florals saturates deeply. Residual acids maintain balance and a juicy persona, as gobs of minerals and gingery spice linger long. The Bianco Pithos spends a month on the skins post-fermentation, followed by another seven months refining in amphora. While this has the sometimes quirky and nervous personality of an orange wine, it’s also very easy to like.”
Ovum: The Great Whites of Oregon Wine
When discussing low intervention winemaking in Oregon, you would be hard pressed to not mention Ovum. More or less synonymous with the movement in the Willamette Valley, Ovum was founded by Ksenija and John House in 2011 and has specialized in white wine production ever since! Ever the busybodies, they’re also the assistant winemaker at Argyle and one of the owners of Les Caves here in Portland. Primarily working with Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Muscat and Pinot Blanc they are fantastic at demonstrating the versatility of the component grapes, further demonstrated by their multifaceted vinification practices. Most impressive of their practices is their absolute refusal to add anything to their wines; be that cultivated yeast, sulfur, sugar, enzymes or yeast nutrients. From a technical perspective this is what wines from Alsace, Central Europe and Northern Italy tasted like prior to the 19th century and subsequent industrialization.
This is exemplified in their flagship wine Big Salt, which is a co-fermentation of all the varietals and vineyards they work with. Encompassing 5 AVA’s across Oregon, all of which are organically farmed and in possession of old vines; this is a marvel of both the winemaking and winegrowing at play in the State. Meant to evoke a day at the beach, there is a pervasive salinity with a food friendly integration of floral and botanical characteristics. The use of concrete egg and amphora across their portfolio shows in the textural component all their wines have, evocative of Bai Mudan tea, white peach skin and mandarin orange peel.
Newly released is also a single varietal offering from them, called “Love Your Lovin’ Ways Gewurztraminer” Entirely sourced from some of the oldest producing vines in Southern Oregon (Planted in 1976) this is an austere gem for your cellar. Impressively full bodied and filled with tropical nuance, you’re transported to Polynesia from the aroma profile alone with languid ginger flower, jasmine blossom, lychee and gardenia. There is a definite pineapple and green mango component on the palate, with a finish of tamarind, rose water, white miso and papaya. Something I would pair with Thai, Fillipino, Hawaiian or anything that incorporates spice.
In Stock Now:
Ovum ‘Big Salt’ Elkton 2020 750ML ($21.95) $17 special
Winery note “2020 Big Salt is wildly aromatic, laced with Gewurz and Muscat overtones, but framed by citrusy Riesling. Salty bergamot, lemon, nectarine and white tea– exotic fruits fill out the nose. The palate is filled with the texture of Gewurz, herbal hints from Pinot Blanc, but quickly washed back with classic Riesling acidity. 2020 Big Salt pairs well with fish tacos, pesto chicken pasta, pad thai…or just chilling. Cellar: 3-8 years of optimal drinking. 45% Riesling, 35% Gewurztraminer, 11% Pinot Blanc, 9% Early Muscat, 1% others. Soils: Volcanic ash, basalt, marine sediment, alluvial, serpentine.”
This is exemplified in their flagship wine Big Salt, which is a co-fermentation of all the varietals and vineyards they work with. Encompassing 5 AVA’s across Oregon, all of which are organically farmed and in possession of old vines; this is a marvel of both the winemaking and winegrowing at play in the State. Meant to evoke a day at the beach, there is a pervasive salinity with a food friendly integration of floral and botanical characteristics. The use of concrete egg and amphora across their portfolio shows in the textural component all their wines have, evocative of Bai Mudan tea, white peach skin and mandarin orange peel.
Newly released is also a single varietal offering from them, called “Love Your Lovin’ Ways Gewurztraminer” Entirely sourced from some of the oldest producing vines in Southern Oregon (Planted in 1976) this is an austere gem for your cellar. Impressively full bodied and filled with tropical nuance, you’re transported to Polynesia from the aroma profile alone with languid ginger flower, jasmine blossom, lychee and gardenia. There is a definite pineapple and green mango component on the palate, with a finish of tamarind, rose water, white miso and papaya. Something I would pair with Thai, Fillipino, Hawaiian or anything that incorporates spice.
In Stock Now:
Ovum ‘Big Salt’ Elkton 2020 750ML ($21.95) $17 special
Winery note “2020 Big Salt is wildly aromatic, laced with Gewurz and Muscat overtones, but framed by citrusy Riesling. Salty bergamot, lemon, nectarine and white tea– exotic fruits fill out the nose. The palate is filled with the texture of Gewurz, herbal hints from Pinot Blanc, but quickly washed back with classic Riesling acidity. 2020 Big Salt pairs well with fish tacos, pesto chicken pasta, pad thai…or just chilling. Cellar: 3-8 years of optimal drinking. 45% Riesling, 35% Gewurztraminer, 11% Pinot Blanc, 9% Early Muscat, 1% others. Soils: Volcanic ash, basalt, marine sediment, alluvial, serpentine.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 9 bottles in stock now
Ovum ‘Love Your Loving Ways’ Gewurztraminer Oregon 2019 750 ML($29.95) $19.90 special
Winery note “2019 Love your Loving Ways Gewurz is not what you’ve come to expect from Gewurz, but you probably already knew that about OVUM. Our Gewurz is not about sweet canned fruit or rose extract – Love your Lovin Ways is about restraint, elegance and purity of place. The 2019 offering is particularly unusual for it’s dominant blood orange aromatics, and length of minerality on the palate. Yes, somehow this Gewurz shows gobs of minerality. Unfined, Unfiltered (for the first time), native yeast, nothing added except sulfur…this is a magical mystery wine for the ages.”
Ovum ‘Old Love’ Oregon 2019 750ML ($24.95) $18 special
Winery note “It’s golden hue is the first thing you’ll notice (thanks amphora), and without putting your nose to the glass you’ll start getting wafts of salted lemon, fresh peeled orange and aloe vera. The aromas are multiple layers deep where you’ll find verbena, straw, key lime, sea spray, river rock. The palate shows the sensual texture of cask fighting with the rawness of amphora, and yet it finishes with bright minerality. Bitter orange marmalade lingers on the fingers, echoing the initial top notes of wine.
“2019 OLD LOVE comes from FIVE vineyards planted throughout Oregon: Willamette, Eola-Amity, Columbia Gorge, Southern OR. The sites are focused on sustainable farming practices – dry farming, organic and minimal additions. Some are not certified organic, but are in the process of converting. Each site is chosen for its unique qualities that it will lend to the final wine. 2019 is primarily Riesling, but OLD LOVE is not about a single grape – it is about the vineyards coming together to make a singular wine of Oregon.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Ovum ‘Old Love’ Oregon 2020 750ML (24.95) $18.50 special
Winery note “It’s golden hue is the first thing you’ll notice (thanks amphora), and aromats of sea spray coated limes, roasted apricot pit, petrichor and flint pop out of the glass. One of the goals of this unusual elevage is to cultivate defined layers within the wine. – lemon verbena, straw, Spring meadow. The palate shows the sensual texture of cask fighting with the rawness of amphora, and yet it finishes with bright minerality. Agave and lime linger on the finish, echoing the initial top notes of wine.
“OLD LOVE is a “method” wine inspired by early 1800’s winemaking in Austria. One might ask – what the hell were Austrian monks doing to wine in the early 1800’s that made it worth repeating!?! They harvested vineyards with varying qualities of ripeness/ acidity/ fruitiness/ minerality – fermented them together (read BIG SALT) – then they used methods during elevage to express the full potential within the wine. We’ve taken this methodology, combined it with OVUM concepts, and POOF! We have OLD LOVE. Where does OLD LOVE come from? 20 OLD LOVE comes from FIVE vineyards planted throughout Oregon: Willamette, Eola-Amity, Columbia Gorge, Southern OR. The sites are focused on sustainable farming practices – dry farming, organic and minimal additions. Some are not certified organic, but are in the process of converting. Each site is chosen for its unique qualities that it will lend to the final wine. 2020 is primarily Riesling, but OLD LOVE is not about a single grape – it is about the vineyards coming together to make a singular wine of Oregon. How is OLD LOVE produced? After a soak on skins (diff for each site), the fruit is pressed (hard) into tank where native fermentation begins. Then, apx 35% of the juice in tank is racked into: amphora, Austrian cask, cement egg and neutral barrel. Then we wait a lunar cycle… After 28 days or so, the wine in the vessels is added back to the wine in stainless steel. Once it is fully blended, we place 35% of the wine BACK into amphora, cask, egg and barrel. This process is repeated three times. But why? Each vessel helps express different potential within the wine: • Amphora brings structure and natural earthiness. • Acacia cask heighten earthiness and rich textures (new addition). • Austrian cask adds textural complexity and rounds high-tone aromatics. • Cement egg pulls out minerality at the loss of fruit aromas. • Neutral barrel helps express secondary and tertiary flavors. • 2020 OLD LOVE – is the result of how elevage is used to elevate the natural qualities of the wine.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino:
Cresti’s Top Super-Tuscan offering en route!
Coming from another highly lauded vintage in Tuscany, this release exhibits the best qualities of a super Tuscan without breaking your budget. Similar to the prized 2015 vintage, the 2016 was a warm year but marked by less heat spikes and more day-night temperature variation. What this equates to in the wine is black and purple fruited flavors like Bing cherry, Italian plum and crushed blackberry with lifted aromatics and linear acid. The tannin profile is equally developed, knitting the fruits together with polished leather, Guatemalan cigar and the classic terra-cotta rusticity of Tuscany. Unlike a lot of super tuscans, the Sangiovese and Bordeaux varietals are not jockeying for dominance and are seamlessly integrated. A fantastic value for the quality that won’t be repeated for some time!
Arriving ETA Late July:
Cresti Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino Do ut des Toscana IGT Tuscany 2016 750ML ($54.95) $48 pre-arrival special
94 Points Monica Larner-Wine Advocate “The 2016 Do Ut Des (a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a generous and expansive personality that hits the palate like a warm embrace from a favorite friend. This is a succulent and smooth red wine with thick layers of bold cherry, dried blackberry, leather, rose hip and scorched earth. In the mouth, the wine proceeds with medium- to full-bodied texture and elegantly contoured fruit flavors.”
94 Points Wine Spectator “Sleek and focused, with black currant, black cherry, plum, iron and tobacco flavors coursing through from start to finish. Tightly wound and vibrant, this lingers with subtle licorice and spice elements. Shows fine harmony and length. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2023 through 2036. 1,650 cases made, 200 cases imported. — BS”
Arriving ETA Late July:
Cresti Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino Do ut des Toscana IGT Tuscany 2016 750ML ($54.95) $48 pre-arrival special
94 Points Monica Larner-Wine Advocate “The 2016 Do Ut Des (a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a generous and expansive personality that hits the palate like a warm embrace from a favorite friend. This is a succulent and smooth red wine with thick layers of bold cherry, dried blackberry, leather, rose hip and scorched earth. In the mouth, the wine proceeds with medium- to full-bodied texture and elegantly contoured fruit flavors.”
94 Points Wine Spectator “Sleek and focused, with black currant, black cherry, plum, iron and tobacco flavors coursing through from start to finish. Tightly wound and vibrant, this lingers with subtle licorice and spice elements. Shows fine harmony and length. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2023 through 2036. 1,650 cases made, 200 cases imported. — BS”
Prudhon: The Paragon of Burgundy
Domaine Henri Prudhon is synonymous with their home village of St. Aubin. With two generations serving multiple terms as mayor of the village, all while continuing to work their vines they are as Burgundian as they come. While most of their vineyard holdings are within their home village, they have expanded under their 4th generation and now harvest fruit from Puligny-Montrachet, Chevalier-Montrachet and Gamay. In addition to organically farming in these storied villages, they are in possession of old vines and only plough their fields when deemed necessary.
In order to allow the individual character of these vineyards to shine, minimal new oak is used and every vineyard is fermented and bottled separately. This results in incredibly varied production, with some vineyards only filling two barrels a vintage. From the perspective of the growing year these should be incredibly rich and expressive wines, and perfectly suited for the house style of Prudhon, which practices barrel fermentation and extended lees aging. 2018 was one of the hottest and driest on record in Burgundy, giving a level of concentration not commonly seen in the cooler villages.
Arriving ETA Late June:
Only 12 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils Puligny-Montrachet Les Enseignieres Cote de Beaune 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 6 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils La Chateniere Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 6 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils En Remilly Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML($89.95) $66 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Henri Prudhon & Fils Sur Gamay Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML($89.95) $57 pre-arrival special
Only 12 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils Saint-Aubin Le Ban Cote de Beaune 2018 750ML ($59.95) $44 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 12 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Castets Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML($69.95) $55 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Only 12 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Perrieres Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Only 12 bottles arriving!
Henri Prudhon & Fils Sur le Sentier du Clou Blanc Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Paolo Scavino:
Barolo’s Modern-ish Master
Scavino is one of the truly great estates in Barolo, a region with no shortage of famous names. Despite a recent trend towards a more traditional approach, the wines still skew modernist. Rich and powerful in their youth, their true greatness develops after time in the cellar – something that can’t be said about all of Scavino’s modernist peers. Complex and nuanced upon release, the wines are built to age. With access to some of Barolo’s most prized vineyards and a winemaking team that embraces the best of both modern and traditional techniques, the wines are arguably the smartest buys in Barolo today.
In Stock Now from Paolo Scavino:
Paolo Scavino Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($219.95) $199 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2013 Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva was released in January of 2019, and once again it looks to be a top prize. Licorice and flowers dominate the bouquet, and its beautiful red fruit is generous throughout. This wine has always been a beauty and consistently has had a high price tag to reflect that quality, going back to the first vintages of the 1990s. It has regularly sold for about $200 every year for the last decade. These vines are old, some of them very old (reaching the ripe age of 60 years old in 1990s, when many of them were replanted with carefully selected clones), producing an elegance and concentration that brings intensity and a high standard of aromas. This Barolo without a doubt shows its pedigree and a quality of noble perfumes that demonstrate characteristics of the greatest Nebbiolo vintages, all delivered with excellent concentration. The magic lingers on the palate, right up to the finish.”
James Suckling 95 points “Aromas of white truffles and dried red cherries here with an earthy nuance that makes for a complex and compelling nose. The palate has a deep and dense shape and delivers a wide array of rich cherry and plum flavors. Some handy spice here, too. Drink or hold.”
Paolo Scavino Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2016 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Showing Enrico Scavino’s signature at the bottom of the label, this is a classic expression of Barolo. The Paolo Scavino 2016 Barolo offers impeccable balance and an all-pleasing approach. There is something for everyone, especially die-hard Nebbiolo lovers, with energy, power, aromatic finesse and elegant tannins. Fruit for this wine is sourced from a half-dozen vineyard sites from across the appellation, so you get some of the power of Serralunga d’Alba and the precision of Castiglione Falletto. The scope of this wine is wide and broad, offering sweeping panoramic views of this unique grape from Piedmont. This is a terrific value.”
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Fragrant blue flower and perfumed berry aromas mingle with whiffs of dark culinary spice and forest floor. Tightly knit and loaded with finesse, the full-bodied palate features juicy cherry, strawberry compote, star anise and a hint of white pepper alongside taut, polished tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2022–2030. -Kerin O’Keefe”
James Suckling 95 points “A very pretty, floral Barolo with rose petals, cedar and sandalwood, as well as strawberries and cherries. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, very fine and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs three or four years to soften a little. Try after 2022.”
Arriving ETA July:
Paolo Scavino Bricco Ambrogio, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Located in Roddi, the 2017 Barolo Bricco Ambrogio is marked by perfume of chalky earth, violets, and kirsch. The palate moves into dark fruits, with ripe currant, sweet tobacco, and tannins that emerge on the finish. Hold for 2-4 years and drink 2024-2042. Helmed by fourth generation winemaker Elisa Scavino, the estate owns and manages 30 hectares spanning eight of the 11 communes of the Barolo region and is based in Castiglione Falletto. Since 2007, they have implemented the use of a netted, submerged cap cylindrical system developed by Elisa’s father, Enrico, which achieves a delicate extraction during fermentation. They have moved to slower, longer fermentation periods, and as of 2018 will only be utilizing large casks. In the vineyard, there is great attention to the compression of the soils, creating a healthy ecosystem rich in oxygen and microorganisms and a sustainable approach.”
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2017 Barolo Bricco Ambrogio is laced with succulent black cherry, mocha, licorice, dark spice and lavender. The Bricco Ambrogio is usually a bit juicier, while the 2017 is decidedly on the lighter side.”
Paolo Scavino Bric del Fiasc, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $88 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2017 Barolo Bric del Fiasc is another gorgeous wine in the line up from the Scavino family. Readers will find a Barolo that is more nuanced and less bombastic than in the past. Bric del Fiasc has plenty of power on its own, so this style works so well. Dried rose petal, mint, spice, kirsch and iron all blossom with a bit of coaxing. I can’t wait to see how it ages.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Bric Del Fiasc has pure aromatics of stony graphitic earth, licorice, violets, and cherry liqueur. The palate is balanced, with a full structure, noted by dried apricot, blood orange, and cinnamon. The Bric del Fiasc has both floral lift as well as noble structure and has a refreshing nature. Drink 2024-2046.”
Paolo Scavino Carobric, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Carobric is one of the standouts in this range, as it often is. It has an extra dimension of depth and volume that works so well here. Sweet red cherry, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, anise and brambly notes build as this striking, expressive Barolo shows off its considerable charm. What a pretty wine it is.”
Paolo Scavino Monvigliero, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Barolo Monvigliero is classy and polished right out of the gate. Sweet dark cherry, rose petal, mint and cinnamon are some of the nuances that open in the glass. Even with all of its immediacy, the 2017 has plenty of tannin. I would prefer to cellar it for at least a few years. The 2017 is undoubtedly an attractive wine, but its best days lie ahead.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “From the northern MGA within Verduno, the 2017 Barolo Monvigliero is soft and floral, with crushed violets, ripe black raspberry, and licorice candy. The palate is drying, with cherry pit, sweet herbs, and turned earth. Ripe yet balanced, drink or hold 2022-2040.”
Paolo Scavino Prapo, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2017 Barolo Prapò is yet another stellar wine in this range. Dark and brooding in the glass, the Prapò expresses all of the natural weight of this Serralunga cru, but with more overt fruit and a bit less tannic heft than is often the case. That should make the 2017 a real pleasure to drink, with just a handful of years in the cellar. Succulent black cherry, licorice, menthol, gravel and cured meats build into the heady finish.”
Paolo Scavino Ravera, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2017 Barolo Ravera is dazzling. Deep, potent and virile, the 2017 has a lot to say, but it won’t be ready to drink anytime soon. Black cherry, graphite, licorice, smoke, game, lavender and licorice convey a real impression of gravitas that is reinforced by the wine’s overall feel. This powerhouse Barolo is magnificent today in a sort of old-school meets new-school style.”
In Stock Now from Paolo Scavino:
Paolo Scavino Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($219.95) $199 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2013 Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva was released in January of 2019, and once again it looks to be a top prize. Licorice and flowers dominate the bouquet, and its beautiful red fruit is generous throughout. This wine has always been a beauty and consistently has had a high price tag to reflect that quality, going back to the first vintages of the 1990s. It has regularly sold for about $200 every year for the last decade. These vines are old, some of them very old (reaching the ripe age of 60 years old in 1990s, when many of them were replanted with carefully selected clones), producing an elegance and concentration that brings intensity and a high standard of aromas. This Barolo without a doubt shows its pedigree and a quality of noble perfumes that demonstrate characteristics of the greatest Nebbiolo vintages, all delivered with excellent concentration. The magic lingers on the palate, right up to the finish.”
James Suckling 95 points “Aromas of white truffles and dried red cherries here with an earthy nuance that makes for a complex and compelling nose. The palate has a deep and dense shape and delivers a wide array of rich cherry and plum flavors. Some handy spice here, too. Drink or hold.”
Paolo Scavino Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2016 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Showing Enrico Scavino’s signature at the bottom of the label, this is a classic expression of Barolo. The Paolo Scavino 2016 Barolo offers impeccable balance and an all-pleasing approach. There is something for everyone, especially die-hard Nebbiolo lovers, with energy, power, aromatic finesse and elegant tannins. Fruit for this wine is sourced from a half-dozen vineyard sites from across the appellation, so you get some of the power of Serralunga d’Alba and the precision of Castiglione Falletto. The scope of this wine is wide and broad, offering sweeping panoramic views of this unique grape from Piedmont. This is a terrific value.”
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Fragrant blue flower and perfumed berry aromas mingle with whiffs of dark culinary spice and forest floor. Tightly knit and loaded with finesse, the full-bodied palate features juicy cherry, strawberry compote, star anise and a hint of white pepper alongside taut, polished tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2022–2030. -Kerin O’Keefe”
James Suckling 95 points “A very pretty, floral Barolo with rose petals, cedar and sandalwood, as well as strawberries and cherries. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, very fine and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs three or four years to soften a little. Try after 2022.”
Arriving ETA July:
Paolo Scavino Bricco Ambrogio, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Located in Roddi, the 2017 Barolo Bricco Ambrogio is marked by perfume of chalky earth, violets, and kirsch. The palate moves into dark fruits, with ripe currant, sweet tobacco, and tannins that emerge on the finish. Hold for 2-4 years and drink 2024-2042. Helmed by fourth generation winemaker Elisa Scavino, the estate owns and manages 30 hectares spanning eight of the 11 communes of the Barolo region and is based in Castiglione Falletto. Since 2007, they have implemented the use of a netted, submerged cap cylindrical system developed by Elisa’s father, Enrico, which achieves a delicate extraction during fermentation. They have moved to slower, longer fermentation periods, and as of 2018 will only be utilizing large casks. In the vineyard, there is great attention to the compression of the soils, creating a healthy ecosystem rich in oxygen and microorganisms and a sustainable approach.”
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2017 Barolo Bricco Ambrogio is laced with succulent black cherry, mocha, licorice, dark spice and lavender. The Bricco Ambrogio is usually a bit juicier, while the 2017 is decidedly on the lighter side.”
Paolo Scavino Bric del Fiasc, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $88 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2017 Barolo Bric del Fiasc is another gorgeous wine in the line up from the Scavino family. Readers will find a Barolo that is more nuanced and less bombastic than in the past. Bric del Fiasc has plenty of power on its own, so this style works so well. Dried rose petal, mint, spice, kirsch and iron all blossom with a bit of coaxing. I can’t wait to see how it ages.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Bric Del Fiasc has pure aromatics of stony graphitic earth, licorice, violets, and cherry liqueur. The palate is balanced, with a full structure, noted by dried apricot, blood orange, and cinnamon. The Bric del Fiasc has both floral lift as well as noble structure and has a refreshing nature. Drink 2024-2046.”
Paolo Scavino Carobric, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Carobric is one of the standouts in this range, as it often is. It has an extra dimension of depth and volume that works so well here. Sweet red cherry, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, anise and brambly notes build as this striking, expressive Barolo shows off its considerable charm. What a pretty wine it is.”
Paolo Scavino Monvigliero, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Barolo Monvigliero is classy and polished right out of the gate. Sweet dark cherry, rose petal, mint and cinnamon are some of the nuances that open in the glass. Even with all of its immediacy, the 2017 has plenty of tannin. I would prefer to cellar it for at least a few years. The 2017 is undoubtedly an attractive wine, but its best days lie ahead.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “From the northern MGA within Verduno, the 2017 Barolo Monvigliero is soft and floral, with crushed violets, ripe black raspberry, and licorice candy. The palate is drying, with cherry pit, sweet herbs, and turned earth. Ripe yet balanced, drink or hold 2022-2040.”
Paolo Scavino Prapo, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2017 Barolo Prapò is yet another stellar wine in this range. Dark and brooding in the glass, the Prapò expresses all of the natural weight of this Serralunga cru, but with more overt fruit and a bit less tannic heft than is often the case. That should make the 2017 a real pleasure to drink, with just a handful of years in the cellar. Succulent black cherry, licorice, menthol, gravel and cured meats build into the heady finish.”
Paolo Scavino Ravera, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2017 Barolo Ravera is dazzling. Deep, potent and virile, the 2017 has a lot to say, but it won’t be ready to drink anytime soon. Black cherry, graphite, licorice, smoke, game, lavender and licorice convey a real impression of gravitas that is reinforced by the wine’s overall feel. This powerhouse Barolo is magnificent today in a sort of old-school meets new-school style.”
Vinopolis is an independent wine shop in Portland that opened in 2004. Our goal has always been to offer the finest, broadest, and largest selection of wines at the best prices to our customers in Portland, in Oregon, across the West Coast, and throughout the United States.
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