In Today’s Newsletter:
New Wines from Cayuse!
Baumard: Masters of Chenin Blanc
New Grapelive Review
“One of the Best Pure Nebbiolo Values Out There”
Trending
Super Subscriber Sale
Markus Molitor’s Brilliant Mosel Rieslings
High-Scoring New Wines from Cornas’ Domaine du Tunnel
Collector’s Corner:
Biondi Santi – Brunello’s Alpha and Omega
New Wines from Cayuse!
Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 95+ points “Brought up in a scant 15% new puncheons, the 2013 Syrah en Cerise is a beautifully layered, elegant, yet focused and concentrated Syrah that really needs 2-3 years of bottle age to strut its stuff. Black cherries, raw steak, violets and pepper all emerge from this full-bodied, balanced, classic Syrah from one the top winemakers in the US.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Broad and supple, this open-textured version is powerful and expressive without weight. Plum, cherry, tobacco and orange peel flavors float over beautifully modulated tannins into the long, seamless finish. Drink now through 2023. 376 cases made. — HS”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “The aromas pop with notes of funk, smoked meat, red fruit, flowers, stems and orange peel. It’s compact out of the gate with concentrated, tightly wound, salty flavors of olive brine, crushed rock and violets. It shows an exquisite sense of balance and a crazy long finish. -Sean P. Sullivan”
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Wine Advocate 96 points “Another sensational looking Syrah, the 2013 Syrah en Chamberlin Vineyard is the most savory, umami-styled, exotic and funky of the lot. Iodine, beef blood, licorice, mushroom and hints of soy and give way to a full-bodied barrel sample that has ample concentration, sweet tannin and a great finish. This is classic Rocks characteristics and is perfumed, complex and downright exotic. It should drink well for 15 years or more.” JD
Cayuse Vineyards Cailloux Vineyard Syrah 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Wine Spectator 96 points “Broad and expressive, playing the cherry, raspberry and pear notes against fine tannins. Picks up tobacco, tar and mineral notes as the finish sails on. Has terrific presence without weight. Drink now through 2025.”
Wine Advocate 94-97 points “Starting off the 2013 Syrahs from barrel, the 755-case 2013 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard was cofermented with 5% Viognier and is aged in twice-used French oak. It offers a ripe, voluptuous style in its ground pepper, smoked meats, peat and sweet dark fruits. These give way to a full-bodied Syrah that has solid concentration and good tannin. The Viognier here normally gives this cuvee some early charm, but it should evolve gracefully as well.” JD
Cayuse Vineyards Flying Pig 2013 750ML ($179.95) $159 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 93 points “Made from equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot, with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the medium ruby colored 2013 Flying Pig gives up lots of black cherry, violets, spring flowers and savory spice in its medium to full-bodied, elegant, silky personality. Raised in 30% new puncheons, with the balance second and third fill barrels, it should drink nicely for another decade.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points ” (13.4% alcohol; aged in Taransaud puncheons, 40% new): Bright red-ruby. Musky but pure aromas of black cherry, dark berries and smoked meat convey a sexy note of reduction. Surprisingly plush and sweet in the middle palate following the reticent nose, with dark fruit flavors complemented by sexy oak tones and notes of olive tapenade and spices. Tightens up again on the firmly tannic, classically dry back end. This solidly structured, fine-grained blend should gain further complexity with a few more years in the bottle.”
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only three bottles available
Anthony Mueller – Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2017 Syrah en Chamberlin Vineyard is unmistakable on the nose, boasting an intensely framed Syrah that offers up generous and juicy dark fruit, framed by meaty, umami and savory expressions of olive tapenade, black pepper and charcuterie before drifting back to aromas of violets and lavender. Full-bodied and firmly structured, the wine is built like a tank, revealing layers of complexity and elegance that are supported by fine-grained tannins and rocky minerality across the mid-palate. With power and finesse, the wine somersaults in the mouth, before leading to a long, impressive conclusion that continues to develop in length. Only 365 cases were produced of this stellar wine. Yum!”
James Suckling 96 points “This red shows lots of smoked meat and spices, as well as dried-strawberry and raspberry character. Full-bodied, yet not overpowering, with creamy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Tightens at the end. Shows focus and intensity. Drink or hold.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “More tapenade, dried herbs, chocolate, sweet mulch, and sweet black fruits emerge from the 2017 Syrah En Chamberlin, a medium to full-bodied, ripe, powerful 2017. With building tannins, a plump, expansive mid-palate, plenty of classic Rocks funk, and a great finish, it doesn’t quite have the precision of the En Cerise yet is more sexy and opulent. It benefits from a decant if drinking any time soon and will evolve gracefully for 15 years.”
Winery Note “En Chamberlin Vineyard—2000 saw the planting of 10 more stony acres. Grafted on phyloxera resistant rootstock, it’s another first for our region. This vineyard produces The Widowmaker Cabernet-Sauvignon, Impulsivo Tempranillo and En Chamberlin Syrah.”
Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points ” The 2017 Syrah En Cerise Vineyard is cut from the same cloth as the Cailloux Vineyard release, yet is a slightly darker, meatier wine, offering a Jamet-like bouquet of blackberries, ground pepper, black olive, bloody meat, crushed rocks, and violets. Showing less overt funkiness and just a stunningly pure, elegant, medium to full-bodied Syrah, it has silky tannins, a great spine of acidity, and a great, great finish. Drink it any time over the coming two decades or more. It’s hard to say if this will surpass the 2016, 2008, and 2007, but it’s certainly in the same ballpark.”
Anthony Mueller- Wine Advocate 95 points ” The 2017 Syrah en Cerise begins a little more broad-shouldered than the rest of the range, offering up aromas of black cherries, crushed rock, cured meats, smoked peppercorn and dusty lavender in the glass. Full-bodied, the wine is firm with youthful tannins, which make this bottling food-friendly. Open-knit and expressive, the long, winding finish evolves over a few moments before reverting to savory tones and an expression of dust-covered cherry skin. Only 393 cases were produced. I would suggest giving this one more year in the cellar, then consume over the next 13-18 years.”
Winery Note “En Cerise Vineyard—Literally translated, it means cherry—appropriate since this 10-acre vineyard planted in 1998 was a cherry orchard in its former life. En Cerise Vineyard Syrah and grapes for the Flying Pig and Camaspelo Bordeaux blends are grown here.”
Cayuse Vineyards ‘Widowmaker’ En Chamberlin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The 2017 The Widowmaker En Chamberlin is another Bordeaux look-alike (it reminds me of a wine from the Graves region) that has loads of blackcurrant and cassis as well as leafy tobacco, cedar pencil, chocolate, cold fireplace and Asian spices on both the nose and palate. Rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it has a wonderfully seamless texture, ultra-fine tannins, and a great, great finish. This beautiful, elegant yet powerful Cabernet Sauvignon will drink well for 20-30 years or more.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2017 The Widowmaker en Chamberlin Vineyard begins with boisterous black fruits on the nose with subtleties of graphite, blackcurrant and dried violets before expressing hints of crème de cassis and smoked earth. Full-bodied, the wine is rich and round, offering a generous yet balanced structure to last about two decades. Accessible in youth, the wine ends with a silky, supple finish that continues to evolve with complexity for moments after the wine has left the palate and will surely deliver pleasure. 232 cases produced. Good luck finding some.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Cellar Selection. the aromas offer beguiling, complex notes of funk, cedar, plum, moist earth and black currant. Intensely pure, ripe, dense, palate-coating flavors follow, showing impressive staying power. It’s an outrageously pleasurable wine—a textbook example of what Cabernet can achieve in this sub-appellation of the valley. Best after 2024.”
Cayuse Vineyards ‘Widowmaker’ En Chamberlin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, only three bottles available
Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah 2018 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only three bottles available
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah 2018 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Baumard: Masters of Chenin Blanc
Domaine des Baumard Savennieres 2018 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “This balanced white is clean and pure, with a refreshing profile, but also shows depth, with flavors of apple and peach, as well as hints of lanolin that linger on the minerally finish, bringing you back for another sip. Best from 2021 through 2028. 4,500 cases made, 900 cases imported. — AZ”
Also available, a Wine Spectator Top 100 dessert stunner:
Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2018
Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 2015 750ML ($99.95) $79 special
Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 2015 375ML ($59.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 98 points “Highly Recommended. Waves of creamed Jonagold apple, Cavaillon melon, mirabelle plum, mango and white peach flavors provide thrilling range, while flashes of honeysuckle and verbena add detail and focus throughout. Unctuous yet pure, sweet yet invigorating, with an inner brightness that matches the outward hedonism. Best from 2020 through 2045. 100 cases imported.”
Have Wine Ready to Pick Up?
Stop by our shop 10 am – 6 pm daily
Feel free to call ahead before you arrive or for curbside service:
#503-223-6002
(You’ll help free up some space for your next order!)
#Trending
New Wines from Cayuse!
Baumard: Masters of Chenin Blanc
New Grapelive Review
“One of the Best Pure Nebbiolo Values Out There”
Trending
Super Subscriber Sale
Markus Molitor’s Brilliant Mosel Rieslings
High-Scoring New Wines from Cornas’ Domaine du Tunnel
Collector’s Corner:
Biondi Santi – Brunello’s Alpha and Omega
New Wines from Cayuse!
Cayuse is one of the most in-demand wineries in North America, producing wines from both Rhone and Bordeaux varieties that are among the finest in the world and selling them almost exclusively through their mailing list. Even if you wanted to buy their wines directly off that list, you’d be looking at a looooong wait before getting an opportunity—so this is a rare treat.
We’re always on the hunt for more of these hyper-rare bottlings—and this set of wines is a prime example of why they’re so exciting. They’re big and powerful, but have an elegance and precision that sets them apart from their West Coast peers. Quantities of each bottling are tiny—especially for the library wines that just arrived—so despite the long list of wines, they’re going to go quickly. Act accordingly.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Cayuse Vineyards Bionic Frog Syrah 2018 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, only three bottles available
We’re always on the hunt for more of these hyper-rare bottlings—and this set of wines is a prime example of why they’re so exciting. They’re big and powerful, but have an elegance and precision that sets them apart from their West Coast peers. Quantities of each bottling are tiny—especially for the library wines that just arrived—so despite the long list of wines, they’re going to go quickly. Act accordingly.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Cayuse Vineyards Bionic Frog Syrah 2018 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, only three bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 95+ points “Brought up in a scant 15% new puncheons, the 2013 Syrah en Cerise is a beautifully layered, elegant, yet focused and concentrated Syrah that really needs 2-3 years of bottle age to strut its stuff. Black cherries, raw steak, violets and pepper all emerge from this full-bodied, balanced, classic Syrah from one the top winemakers in the US.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Broad and supple, this open-textured version is powerful and expressive without weight. Plum, cherry, tobacco and orange peel flavors float over beautifully modulated tannins into the long, seamless finish. Drink now through 2023. 376 cases made. — HS”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “The aromas pop with notes of funk, smoked meat, red fruit, flowers, stems and orange peel. It’s compact out of the gate with concentrated, tightly wound, salty flavors of olive brine, crushed rock and violets. It shows an exquisite sense of balance and a crazy long finish. -Sean P. Sullivan”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Wine Advocate 96 points “Another sensational looking Syrah, the 2013 Syrah en Chamberlin Vineyard is the most savory, umami-styled, exotic and funky of the lot. Iodine, beef blood, licorice, mushroom and hints of soy and give way to a full-bodied barrel sample that has ample concentration, sweet tannin and a great finish. This is classic Rocks characteristics and is perfumed, complex and downright exotic. It should drink well for 15 years or more.” JD
Cayuse Vineyards Cailloux Vineyard Syrah 2013 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Wine Spectator 96 points “Broad and expressive, playing the cherry, raspberry and pear notes against fine tannins. Picks up tobacco, tar and mineral notes as the finish sails on. Has terrific presence without weight. Drink now through 2025.”
Wine Advocate 94-97 points “Starting off the 2013 Syrahs from barrel, the 755-case 2013 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard was cofermented with 5% Viognier and is aged in twice-used French oak. It offers a ripe, voluptuous style in its ground pepper, smoked meats, peat and sweet dark fruits. These give way to a full-bodied Syrah that has solid concentration and good tannin. The Viognier here normally gives this cuvee some early charm, but it should evolve gracefully as well.” JD
Cayuse Vineyards Flying Pig 2013 750ML ($179.95) $159 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 93 points “Made from equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot, with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the medium ruby colored 2013 Flying Pig gives up lots of black cherry, violets, spring flowers and savory spice in its medium to full-bodied, elegant, silky personality. Raised in 30% new puncheons, with the balance second and third fill barrels, it should drink nicely for another decade.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points ” (13.4% alcohol; aged in Taransaud puncheons, 40% new): Bright red-ruby. Musky but pure aromas of black cherry, dark berries and smoked meat convey a sexy note of reduction. Surprisingly plush and sweet in the middle palate following the reticent nose, with dark fruit flavors complemented by sexy oak tones and notes of olive tapenade and spices. Tightens up again on the firmly tannic, classically dry back end. This solidly structured, fine-grained blend should gain further complexity with a few more years in the bottle.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only three bottles available
Anthony Mueller – Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2017 Syrah en Chamberlin Vineyard is unmistakable on the nose, boasting an intensely framed Syrah that offers up generous and juicy dark fruit, framed by meaty, umami and savory expressions of olive tapenade, black pepper and charcuterie before drifting back to aromas of violets and lavender. Full-bodied and firmly structured, the wine is built like a tank, revealing layers of complexity and elegance that are supported by fine-grained tannins and rocky minerality across the mid-palate. With power and finesse, the wine somersaults in the mouth, before leading to a long, impressive conclusion that continues to develop in length. Only 365 cases were produced of this stellar wine. Yum!”
James Suckling 96 points “This red shows lots of smoked meat and spices, as well as dried-strawberry and raspberry character. Full-bodied, yet not overpowering, with creamy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Tightens at the end. Shows focus and intensity. Drink or hold.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “More tapenade, dried herbs, chocolate, sweet mulch, and sweet black fruits emerge from the 2017 Syrah En Chamberlin, a medium to full-bodied, ripe, powerful 2017. With building tannins, a plump, expansive mid-palate, plenty of classic Rocks funk, and a great finish, it doesn’t quite have the precision of the En Cerise yet is more sexy and opulent. It benefits from a decant if drinking any time soon and will evolve gracefully for 15 years.”
Winery Note “En Chamberlin Vineyard—2000 saw the planting of 10 more stony acres. Grafted on phyloxera resistant rootstock, it’s another first for our region. This vineyard produces The Widowmaker Cabernet-Sauvignon, Impulsivo Tempranillo and En Chamberlin Syrah.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points ” The 2017 Syrah En Cerise Vineyard is cut from the same cloth as the Cailloux Vineyard release, yet is a slightly darker, meatier wine, offering a Jamet-like bouquet of blackberries, ground pepper, black olive, bloody meat, crushed rocks, and violets. Showing less overt funkiness and just a stunningly pure, elegant, medium to full-bodied Syrah, it has silky tannins, a great spine of acidity, and a great, great finish. Drink it any time over the coming two decades or more. It’s hard to say if this will surpass the 2016, 2008, and 2007, but it’s certainly in the same ballpark.”
Anthony Mueller- Wine Advocate 95 points ” The 2017 Syrah en Cerise begins a little more broad-shouldered than the rest of the range, offering up aromas of black cherries, crushed rock, cured meats, smoked peppercorn and dusty lavender in the glass. Full-bodied, the wine is firm with youthful tannins, which make this bottling food-friendly. Open-knit and expressive, the long, winding finish evolves over a few moments before reverting to savory tones and an expression of dust-covered cherry skin. Only 393 cases were produced. I would suggest giving this one more year in the cellar, then consume over the next 13-18 years.”
Winery Note “En Cerise Vineyard—Literally translated, it means cherry—appropriate since this 10-acre vineyard planted in 1998 was a cherry orchard in its former life. En Cerise Vineyard Syrah and grapes for the Flying Pig and Camaspelo Bordeaux blends are grown here.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Cayuse Vineyards ‘Widowmaker’ En Chamberlin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, only one bottle available
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The 2017 The Widowmaker En Chamberlin is another Bordeaux look-alike (it reminds me of a wine from the Graves region) that has loads of blackcurrant and cassis as well as leafy tobacco, cedar pencil, chocolate, cold fireplace and Asian spices on both the nose and palate. Rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it has a wonderfully seamless texture, ultra-fine tannins, and a great, great finish. This beautiful, elegant yet powerful Cabernet Sauvignon will drink well for 20-30 years or more.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2017 The Widowmaker en Chamberlin Vineyard begins with boisterous black fruits on the nose with subtleties of graphite, blackcurrant and dried violets before expressing hints of crème de cassis and smoked earth. Full-bodied, the wine is rich and round, offering a generous yet balanced structure to last about two decades. Accessible in youth, the wine ends with a silky, supple finish that continues to evolve with complexity for moments after the wine has left the palate and will surely deliver pleasure. 232 cases produced. Good luck finding some.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Cellar Selection. the aromas offer beguiling, complex notes of funk, cedar, plum, moist earth and black currant. Intensely pure, ripe, dense, palate-coating flavors follow, showing impressive staying power. It’s an outrageously pleasurable wine—a textbook example of what Cabernet can achieve in this sub-appellation of the valley. Best after 2024.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Cayuse Vineyards ‘Widowmaker’ En Chamberlin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, only three bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah 2018 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only three bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah 2018 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, only one bottle available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Baumard: Masters of Chenin Blanc
For many lovers of dry Loire Chenin, their first taste of Savennieres was a bottling from Baumard, which makes sense—they’re the standard bearers for the appellation and one of our favorite producers. The estate dates back to the 1600’s and as a result, holds some of the most prime land in Savennieres and Quarts du Chaume.
If you’ve had these wines before, feel free to skip to the list of wines at the end, but if not—these are wines to pay attention to. Savennieres is perhaps the most regal of the dry Chenin Blanc appellations—coiled and steely, with deep mineral flavors. Over time (and with air) the wine becomes generous and richer—like someone whose friendship must be earned.
Luckily, you can just go out and buy the Baumard Savennieres—no earning trust or friendship here. You should do both—buy some, drink some but also hide some from yourself and watch the wine blossom with time.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Domaine des Baumard Savennieres Clos du Papillon 2014 750ML ($47.95) $41.90 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Bright and pure, with mirabelle plum, green almond and fig notes streaming through, inlaid with racy mineral and verbena details. This has a creamy feel and a bitter almond hint on the finish, adding range and intrigue. Drink now through 2024. 250 cases imported. — JM”
If you’ve had these wines before, feel free to skip to the list of wines at the end, but if not—these are wines to pay attention to. Savennieres is perhaps the most regal of the dry Chenin Blanc appellations—coiled and steely, with deep mineral flavors. Over time (and with air) the wine becomes generous and richer—like someone whose friendship must be earned.
Luckily, you can just go out and buy the Baumard Savennieres—no earning trust or friendship here. You should do both—buy some, drink some but also hide some from yourself and watch the wine blossom with time.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Domaine des Baumard Savennieres Clos du Papillon 2014 750ML ($47.95) $41.90 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Bright and pure, with mirabelle plum, green almond and fig notes streaming through, inlaid with racy mineral and verbena details. This has a creamy feel and a bitter almond hint on the finish, adding range and intrigue. Drink now through 2024. 250 cases imported. — JM”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Domaine des Baumard Savennieres 2018 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
Wine Spectator 90 points “This balanced white is clean and pure, with a refreshing profile, but also shows depth, with flavors of apple and peach, as well as hints of lanolin that linger on the minerally finish, bringing you back for another sip. Best from 2021 through 2028. 4,500 cases made, 900 cases imported. — AZ”
Also available, a Wine Spectator Top 100 dessert stunner:
Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2018
Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 2015 750ML ($99.95) $79 special
Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 2015 375ML ($59.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 98 points “Highly Recommended. Waves of creamed Jonagold apple, Cavaillon melon, mirabelle plum, mango and white peach flavors provide thrilling range, while flashes of honeysuckle and verbena add detail and focus throughout. Unctuous yet pure, sweet yet invigorating, with an inner brightness that matches the outward hedonism. Best from 2020 through 2045. 100 cases imported.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
New Grapelive Review
“One of the Best Pure Nebbiolo Values Out There”
“One of the Best Pure Nebbiolo Values Out There”
In Stock Now:
G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo 2018 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 90 points “One of the best pure Nebbiolo values out there is the G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo… which offers tremendous drinking pleasure and a full array of the grapes best qualities in an approachable, ripely flavored and supple tannined wine, it is a no guilt, everyday, well made baby Barolo. The 2018 is fresher and more zippy than the 2017, but with very pretty aromatics and a palate that builds as it opens, ending not far off the richer vintages and it’s performance gets remarkably better with food, where its acidity fades a little and the core of fruit comes out in a shining fashion with layers of black cherry, wild strawberry, plum and baked peach fruits along with a delicate earthy/savory kick, minty herbs, anise and a mineral tone, all of which goes nicely with the heightened floral notes and lingering saline/stony element. When you want exceptional Nebbiolo, this address is one to look to, not many wineries over the last decade has a string of Barolo greatness as top notch as Vajra with Giuseppe Vajra leading this label to super stardom since his breakthrough vintage in 2008.…The Langhe Nebbiolo, is what Giuseppe calls, his quest for the innocence of Nebbiolo, (and) its purest expression, coming from young estate vineyards close to the winery that range from 10 to 25 years old, it sees a gentle and long maceration so to retain lift and energy, as well as promote its aromatics in this beautiful wine. The vines get total holistic care with the biodiversity extending to the near by forest and neighboring fields to create the best environment possible, this hard work and partnership with nature has paid off in real quality showing up in the bottle. This little Nebbiolo was fermented and aged in stainless steel primarily with some vintages getting a touch not neutral oak if warranted, though everything is done to give crisp, authentic and pure details, which this 2018 delivers, enjoy it over the next 3 to 5 years. The ruby red Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo is great way to get to know this winery and it is real a bargain, it is well worth searching out.”
G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo 2018 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 90 points “One of the best pure Nebbiolo values out there is the G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo… which offers tremendous drinking pleasure and a full array of the grapes best qualities in an approachable, ripely flavored and supple tannined wine, it is a no guilt, everyday, well made baby Barolo. The 2018 is fresher and more zippy than the 2017, but with very pretty aromatics and a palate that builds as it opens, ending not far off the richer vintages and it’s performance gets remarkably better with food, where its acidity fades a little and the core of fruit comes out in a shining fashion with layers of black cherry, wild strawberry, plum and baked peach fruits along with a delicate earthy/savory kick, minty herbs, anise and a mineral tone, all of which goes nicely with the heightened floral notes and lingering saline/stony element. When you want exceptional Nebbiolo, this address is one to look to, not many wineries over the last decade has a string of Barolo greatness as top notch as Vajra with Giuseppe Vajra leading this label to super stardom since his breakthrough vintage in 2008.…The Langhe Nebbiolo, is what Giuseppe calls, his quest for the innocence of Nebbiolo, (and) its purest expression, coming from young estate vineyards close to the winery that range from 10 to 25 years old, it sees a gentle and long maceration so to retain lift and energy, as well as promote its aromatics in this beautiful wine. The vines get total holistic care with the biodiversity extending to the near by forest and neighboring fields to create the best environment possible, this hard work and partnership with nature has paid off in real quality showing up in the bottle. This little Nebbiolo was fermented and aged in stainless steel primarily with some vintages getting a touch not neutral oak if warranted, though everything is done to give crisp, authentic and pure details, which this 2018 delivers, enjoy it over the next 3 to 5 years. The ruby red Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo is great way to get to know this winery and it is real a bargain, it is well worth searching out.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Have Wine Ready to Pick Up?
Stop by our shop 10 am – 6 pm daily
Feel free to call ahead before you arrive or for curbside service:
#503-223-6002
(You’ll help free up some space for your next order!)
#Trending
Newly reviewed, this was already moving briskly off the shelves. Classic Foradori.
Foradori Teroldego Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT 2018 750ML ($29.95) $27 special
Eric Guido-Vinous 91 points “The Foradori Teroldego always makes for a wonderful introduction to the brand. In fact, it was a vertical tasting of the Teroldego, a wine created in a fresh style from younger vines, yet still noble and age-worthy, that first won my heart – not the top-shelf Granato. The 2018 is no different. Here I’m finding a display of wild berry, fresh peppery herbs, violets, and crushed stone. It’s silky in texture, complemented by cool-toned red fruits and minerals, with just a hint of round tannin that provides grip. Inner florals resonate, while residual acids pinch at the taste buds. This is perfectly balanced, wonderfully pleasing today yet able to mature over the medium term in a cold cellar.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 91 points “This wine pours from the bottle with a gorgeous color that recalls a shiny ruby that has been hit by a sunbeam. The 2018 Teroldego Foradori opens to soft aromas of cherry, ripe blackberry and cassis. There is a lot of primary fruit packed in tight, and this is a typical characteristic of Trentino’s Teroldego grape. The wine trends softly and lightly across the palate with medium weight and a relatively soft finish with some tart tannins on the close. This wine was not produced in 2017 because of hail damage.”
What else can you ask out of Chianti? Out of red wine? Fontodi delivers big.
Fontodi Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Case-6 Fontodi Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($399.95) $279 special (that’s only $46.50/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Chianti Classico Fontodi is a wine of extreme elegance that shows how much the house style has evolved here. A decade ago, in a warm year the Fontodi Chianti Classico would have been opulent, but these days proprietor Giovanni Manetti seeks finesse more than power, and that is exactly what comes through here. Ripe red Sangiovese fruit, rose petal, blood orange and spice infuse this racy, exotic Chianti Classico with so much character. The 2016 spent two years in oak, half in cask and half in neutral oak. I loved it.”
James Suckling 94 points “A rich, layered CC with intense cherry and flower character, as well as orange peel. Full-bodied with firm, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. Drink or hold.”
Please, err, observe the gap between our price and the next best out there.
Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($49.95) $21.90 special
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “Pungent, spicy earth and cinnamon rise out of the wine’s bouquet, inviting one to enjoy a structured expression of cranberry, raspberry and black tea. The tannin structure is well managed and the oak strong, yet integrated. Gap’s Crown is among the vineyards that figure into the blend, along with several Dutton family properties. This is fresh and focused. -Virginie Boone”
Robert Parker-Wine Advocate 91 points “All the Pinot Noirs are bottled unfined and unfiltered. The biggest cuvée, the 2013 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast comes from many different sources, including Dutton Ranch, Martinelli Family, Chenoweth Vineyard, and a handful of others, that are blended together for a relatively consistent style from vintage to vintage. The lovely 2013 exhibits terrific blueberry and black raspberry fruit interwoven with notions of Chinese black tea, oak, earth and beet root in the background. This nicely textured, medium-bodied Pinot Noir possesses zesty acidity as well as admirable aromatics. Enjoy it over the next 5-8 years.”
Foradori Teroldego Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT 2018 750ML ($29.95) $27 special
Eric Guido-Vinous 91 points “The Foradori Teroldego always makes for a wonderful introduction to the brand. In fact, it was a vertical tasting of the Teroldego, a wine created in a fresh style from younger vines, yet still noble and age-worthy, that first won my heart – not the top-shelf Granato. The 2018 is no different. Here I’m finding a display of wild berry, fresh peppery herbs, violets, and crushed stone. It’s silky in texture, complemented by cool-toned red fruits and minerals, with just a hint of round tannin that provides grip. Inner florals resonate, while residual acids pinch at the taste buds. This is perfectly balanced, wonderfully pleasing today yet able to mature over the medium term in a cold cellar.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 91 points “This wine pours from the bottle with a gorgeous color that recalls a shiny ruby that has been hit by a sunbeam. The 2018 Teroldego Foradori opens to soft aromas of cherry, ripe blackberry and cassis. There is a lot of primary fruit packed in tight, and this is a typical characteristic of Trentino’s Teroldego grape. The wine trends softly and lightly across the palate with medium weight and a relatively soft finish with some tart tannins on the close. This wine was not produced in 2017 because of hail damage.”
What else can you ask out of Chianti? Out of red wine? Fontodi delivers big.
Fontodi Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Case-6 Fontodi Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($399.95) $279 special (that’s only $46.50/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Chianti Classico Fontodi is a wine of extreme elegance that shows how much the house style has evolved here. A decade ago, in a warm year the Fontodi Chianti Classico would have been opulent, but these days proprietor Giovanni Manetti seeks finesse more than power, and that is exactly what comes through here. Ripe red Sangiovese fruit, rose petal, blood orange and spice infuse this racy, exotic Chianti Classico with so much character. The 2016 spent two years in oak, half in cask and half in neutral oak. I loved it.”
James Suckling 94 points “A rich, layered CC with intense cherry and flower character, as well as orange peel. Full-bodied with firm, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. Drink or hold.”
Please, err, observe the gap between our price and the next best out there.
Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($49.95) $21.90 special
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “Pungent, spicy earth and cinnamon rise out of the wine’s bouquet, inviting one to enjoy a structured expression of cranberry, raspberry and black tea. The tannin structure is well managed and the oak strong, yet integrated. Gap’s Crown is among the vineyards that figure into the blend, along with several Dutton family properties. This is fresh and focused. -Virginie Boone”
Robert Parker-Wine Advocate 91 points “All the Pinot Noirs are bottled unfined and unfiltered. The biggest cuvée, the 2013 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast comes from many different sources, including Dutton Ranch, Martinelli Family, Chenoweth Vineyard, and a handful of others, that are blended together for a relatively consistent style from vintage to vintage. The lovely 2013 exhibits terrific blueberry and black raspberry fruit interwoven with notions of Chinese black tea, oak, earth and beet root in the background. This nicely textured, medium-bodied Pinot Noir possesses zesty acidity as well as admirable aromatics. Enjoy it over the next 5-8 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $43.90
The next best price is $43.90
What a great deal in new-wave Priorat
Familia Nin-Ortiz ‘Planetes de Nin’ Garnatxes en Àmfora, Priorat DOCa 2016 750ML ($44.95) Was $33, Now $29 Super Subscriber Special
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2016 Planetes de Nin Garnatxes en Àmfora was produced with biodynamically farmed Garnacha that fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in 700- and 1,000-liter terracotta amphorae for seven months. They do two versions, one with a little SO2 and the other without, and the difference is minimal. At first one was more closed, but when it opened up, they were very similar and showed some herbal and raspberry leaf aromas intermixed with wild berries and notions of earth, aromatic and balanced. It has fine tannins and a velvety texture. 7,395 bottles were filled in April 2017.”
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The next best price is $34.99
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The next best price is $34.99
Always one of the best deals in the Southern Rhone
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Vieilles Vignes, Rhône 2018 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
Case-6 Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Vieilles Vignes, Rhône 2018 750ML ($219.95) $159 special (that’s only $26.50/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2018 Gigondas Classique Vieilles Vignes shows impressive levels of black cherry fruit, joined by hints of garrigue and licorice. It’s full-bodied, silky and easy to drink, finishing long, briny and savory.”
Jeb Dunnuck 92-94 points “The base Gigondas, the 2018 Gigondas Vieilles Vignes is a blend from both the La Louisiane and Pigière lieux-dits near the estate (due to the dismal yields, there’s no Souteyrade cuvée in 2018) and is 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah brought up in foudre. It has a wonderful flowery incense and blue fruit quality as well as medium to full body, a ripe, rounded mid-palate, and a great texture. It’s a more forward, charming, sexy wine that’s going to drink nicely in its youth yet also evolve gracefully.”
Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Vieilles Vignes, Rhône 2018 750ML ($34.95) $28 special
Case-6 Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Vieilles Vignes, Rhône 2018 750ML ($219.95) $159 special (that’s only $26.50/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The 2018 Gigondas Classique Vieilles Vignes shows impressive levels of black cherry fruit, joined by hints of garrigue and licorice. It’s full-bodied, silky and easy to drink, finishing long, briny and savory.”
Jeb Dunnuck 92-94 points “The base Gigondas, the 2018 Gigondas Vieilles Vignes is a blend from both the La Louisiane and Pigière lieux-dits near the estate (due to the dismal yields, there’s no Souteyrade cuvée in 2018) and is 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah brought up in foudre. It has a wonderful flowery incense and blue fruit quality as well as medium to full body, a ripe, rounded mid-palate, and a great texture. It’s a more forward, charming, sexy wine that’s going to drink nicely in its youth yet also evolve gracefully.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Think Burgundy can’t offer much value? Look at the Collotte wines.
Domaine Collotte Marsannay Le Clos de Jeu, Côte de Nuits 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “The Clos de Jeu Marsannay comes from several parcels of 50 year old vines from Clos de Jeu on soft limestone crinoidal soil. Aged in oak, 25% new, this wine is harmonious in its flavors and tannins.”
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The next best price is $39.99
The next best price is $39.99
A chance to drink Latour-made Bordeaux for under $75? Sign us up.
Château Latour Le Pauillac de Latour, Pauillac 2013 750ML ($99.95) $69 special
James Suckling 90 points “A firm and silky red with currant, plum and berry character. Medium body, fresh finish. Stone and dark fruit. Drink now.”
Château Latour Le Pauillac de Latour, Pauillac 2013 750ML ($99.95) $69 special
James Suckling 90 points “A firm and silky red with currant, plum and berry character. Medium body, fresh finish. Stone and dark fruit. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $83
The average price is $83
The finest release to date of one of Tuscany’s most historic wines
Avignonesi Grandi Annate, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 2012 750ML ($99.95) Was $79, Now $69 Super Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 93 points “You’ll notice that this wine is no longer labeled “Riserva.” Avignonesi wanted to reduce the time it spends in oak and made the name adjustment accordingly. This seems like a good idea to me. The 2012 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Grandi Annate gives new life to one of Tuscany’s most historic wines. There is more elegance and finesse here. I must say that past vintages have been a disappointment, but this expression seems to break all ties with the past. Fruit is sourced primarily from the Banditella vineyard that tends to produce more austere and concentrated Sangiovese. Indeed, this wine is highly redolent of black fruit, tar, licorice and even a touch of white mushroom. Everyone loves a comeback story and that’s what you get here.”
James Suckling 93 points “A chewy and silky wine with just ripe fruit, chocolate and hazelnut character. Fresh earth undertone too. Medium body, fresh finish. Drink now or hold.”
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The next best price is $95
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Markus Molitor’s Brilliant Mosel Rieslings
There may be no more ambitious winemaker in the world than Markus Molitor. His determination and drive to make the best possible wines has made him a towering figure in the Mosel, with an impressive, modern winery and holdings in almost every important vineyard in the region. This drive also means there are a lot of different bottlings—Molitor believes that every single sub-parcel and selective pick should be vinified to its utmost potential.
This is the essence of the brilliance of Markus Molitor. Most winemakers would pick once or twice (or three times) in a vineyard and vinify many lots together—it’s easier and the wines are good. Molitor, though, asks what each parcel and pick would be like on its own—treated as if it were a wine of distinction rather than a blending component. This is a lot of extra work and requires time and space that most winemakers would rather not spend, but the result is a dizzying number of bottlings that all strive toward perfection.
The critical praise backs this up— Markus Molitor’s wines are some of the most celebrated in the world. Whether white capsule (dry), green capsule (off-dry), or gold capsule (fruity to nobly sweet), he manages to produce wines that captivate and astound. 2016 is among the best vintages he’s produced—a worthy encore to his lauded 2015s. We love these wines, and know that you will to, and are excited to offer them today at national best, Super Subscriber Special prices.
In Stock Now & Priced to Move:
Markus Molitor Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Auslese ** Green Capsule (Feinherb), Mosel 2016 750ML ($59.95) Was $51.90 Now $46 Super Subscriber Special,
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2016 Riesling Bernkasteler Badstube Auslese ** (Green Capsule) offers a pretty clear and delicate, fresh and flinty bouquet with bright fruit aromas and clayey wet slate notes. On the palate, this is a tensioned, fresh, mineral and tightly woven Auslese in the medium sweet style. It’s truly piquant and fresh, and the ripe, concentrated fruit is well balanced by vibrating minerals and phenolic grip. The finish is very long and fine, with a lot of salinity and slatey freshness. This is an impressive wine, but you should be patient with it. Tasted March 2018.”
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 94 points “A ton of spices and minerality here. There is also a lot of juiciness and some perceptible sweetness on the middle-palate. A very clean vibrant finish follows and pulls you back for more. Drink or hold.”
This is the essence of the brilliance of Markus Molitor. Most winemakers would pick once or twice (or three times) in a vineyard and vinify many lots together—it’s easier and the wines are good. Molitor, though, asks what each parcel and pick would be like on its own—treated as if it were a wine of distinction rather than a blending component. This is a lot of extra work and requires time and space that most winemakers would rather not spend, but the result is a dizzying number of bottlings that all strive toward perfection.
The critical praise backs this up— Markus Molitor’s wines are some of the most celebrated in the world. Whether white capsule (dry), green capsule (off-dry), or gold capsule (fruity to nobly sweet), he manages to produce wines that captivate and astound. 2016 is among the best vintages he’s produced—a worthy encore to his lauded 2015s. We love these wines, and know that you will to, and are excited to offer them today at national best, Super Subscriber Special prices.
In Stock Now & Priced to Move:
Markus Molitor Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Auslese ** Green Capsule (Feinherb), Mosel 2016 750ML ($59.95) Was $51.90 Now $46 Super Subscriber Special,
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2016 Riesling Bernkasteler Badstube Auslese ** (Green Capsule) offers a pretty clear and delicate, fresh and flinty bouquet with bright fruit aromas and clayey wet slate notes. On the palate, this is a tensioned, fresh, mineral and tightly woven Auslese in the medium sweet style. It’s truly piquant and fresh, and the ripe, concentrated fruit is well balanced by vibrating minerals and phenolic grip. The finish is very long and fine, with a lot of salinity and slatey freshness. This is an impressive wine, but you should be patient with it. Tasted March 2018.”
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 94 points “A ton of spices and minerality here. There is also a lot of juiciness and some perceptible sweetness on the middle-palate. A very clean vibrant finish follows and pulls you back for more. Drink or hold.”
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Markus Molitor Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese*** Green Capsule (Feinherb), Mosel 2016 750ML ($99.95) Was $89, Now $79 Super Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2016 Riesling Graacher Himmelreich Auslese *** (Green Capsule) is deep and complex on the nose, though discreet in its fruit expression straight from the bottle. However, the fruit is beautifully flinty, fresh and really fine. Lush and round on the palate, this is a full-bodied, ripe and intense yet well-balanced and elegant Himmelreich whose sweetness of roughly 30 grams per liter is still prominent at this young age. However, the wine is intense, long, firmly structured, very mineral and provided with serious tannins and a lot of stones. I am tasting it far too early (and straight after the three-starred Rosenberg Auslese), but it’s a highly promising Riesling from a great vintage for the Mosel. Bottled in September 2017; tasted March 2018.”
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 96 points “A remarkable 2016 Mosel riesling that’s just off-dry. Stunning apricots and fresh herbs in the nose. Dense, succulent and yet elegant. The finish is a cascade of herbal notes, ripe fruit and floral honey. A very long and clean finish with a lot of power. Drink or hold.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Markus Molitor Kinheimer Rosenberg Riesling Auslese *** Green Capsule (Feinherb), Mosel 2016 750ML ($99.95) Was $89, Now $79 Super Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2016 Riesling Kinheimer Rosenberg Auslese *** (Green Capsule) offers a super fine raisin and refreshing slatey/flinty bouquet that indicates great purity, finesse and crunchy/slatey freshness. The fermentation stopped at 34 grams of residual sugar per liter (11% alcohol), and the resulting wine is highly delicate, pure, lush and piquant on the palate. It is quite sweet and shows celery flavors as well as great tension that is neither rustic nor challenging but really fine, giving vibrancy, grip and energy to the lush and generous but always precise and elegant Riesling fruit. This is an exciting wine, and Markus filled it as a three-starred Auslese for the first time because he was convinced the wine deserves it. Tasted March 2018.”
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Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese*** Gold Capsule, Mosel 2015 750ML ($119.95) Was $99, Now $89 Super Subscriber Special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 98+ points “The 2015 Riesling Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) offers a very clear, deep, intense and complex stone fruit aroma with some very discreet toast and crushed stone flavors. Full-bodied, rich and powerful but enormously racy-piquant and mineral so that you don’t taste its sweetness, this is a great, expressive terroir wine with a huge inner concentration that comes from the soils rather than dried berries. It is based on grapes with dry raisins due to perfect botrytis combined with healthy berries that deliver the tremendous freshness in this gorgeous Auslese that also reveals some fine tannins from the aging partly in small oak.”
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The next best price is $133.33
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $133.33
Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese** White Capsule Trocken, Mosel 2016 750ML ($59.95) Was $51.90, Now $48 Super Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2016 Riesling Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (White Capsule) has a clear and flinty-scented bouquet of great elegance. With ripe stone fruit aromas on the nose and a very delicate flinty character, this is a beautifully lush and elegant Auslese with enormous complexity, length and mineral tension. It’s crystalline and powerful yet always balanced, and the acidity is absolutely delicate and intertwines with finely grained tannins. The finish is dense and persistent. The wine was fermented and aged in a single 2,000-liter barrel. Bottled at the end of September 2017; tasted March 2018.”
David Schildknecht-Vinous 94 points “Rowan, heliotrope and apple blossom introduce a performance of flattering creaminess and luscious appley fruitiness perfectly complemented by persistently wafting floral perfume and undertones of almond paste and vanilla. There is a strikingly custardy combination of creaminess and density midpalate. Yet, for all of its soothing richness, this beauty finishes with an unexpectedly and impressively decisive note of wet stone as well as infectious, refreshing primary juiciness.”
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Markus Molitor Wehlener Klosterberg Riesling Auslese** Gold Capsule, Mosel 2015 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $49 Super Subscriber Special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2015 Riesling Wehlener Klosterberg Auslese ** (Golden Capsule) is very clear and precise on the nose where concentrated lemon and grapefruit aromas intermix with piquant slate flavors. On the palate, this is a round, lush, piquant, crystalline and very elegant Auslese with great precision and concentration as well as remarkable finesse. The wine reveals lingering salinity and grippy piquancy in the finish that swallows the sweetness with ease. A great and precise Auslese!”
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Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese** Gold Capsule, Mosel 2016 750ML ($79.95) Was $69, Now $59 Super Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 97 points “Molitor and Mosel fans shouldn’t miss the chance to buy at least a case of the 2016 Riesling Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (Golden Capsule)—one of the five different Auslesen Markus Molitor selected in his most important grand cru. The sweet two-starred Auslese comes from the Schiesswingert and the Fliegenberg. It opens with a deep, clear, very fine and complex bouquet of perfectly ripe Riesling berries with very fine botrytis flavors and refreshing flinty notes from the fine slate of the Sonnenuhr. Lush and generous on the palate, with a perfectly ripe and concentrated Riesling fruit, very fine minerals and crunchy slate flavors, this is an exciting Auslese of great finesse and elegance. The finish is delicate but tensioned thanks to the crunchy-salty slate sensation that gives structure as well as finesse and energy. Bottled in September 2017; tasted March 2018.”
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 96 points “A giant Auslese that is so refined and light-footed. Hard to explain how it squared that circle, but somehow it did! A totally individual Mosel wine that in no way confirms to international norms and much less to any wine fashions. A super succulent and long finish that makes you want more. Drink or hold.”
Wine Advocate 97 points “Molitor and Mosel fans shouldn’t miss the chance to buy at least a case of the 2016 Riesling Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (Golden Capsule)—one of the five different Auslesen Markus Molitor selected in his most important grand cru. The sweet two-starred Auslese comes from the Schiesswingert and the Fliegenberg. It opens with a deep, clear, very fine and complex bouquet of perfectly ripe Riesling berries with very fine botrytis flavors and refreshing flinty notes from the fine slate of the Sonnenuhr. Lush and generous on the palate, with a perfectly ripe and concentrated Riesling fruit, very fine minerals and crunchy slate flavors, this is an exciting Auslese of great finesse and elegance. The finish is delicate but tensioned thanks to the crunchy-salty slate sensation that gives structure as well as finesse and energy. Bottled in September 2017; tasted March 2018.”
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 96 points “A giant Auslese that is so refined and light-footed. Hard to explain how it squared that circle, but somehow it did! A totally individual Mosel wine that in no way confirms to international norms and much less to any wine fashions. A super succulent and long finish that makes you want more. Drink or hold.”
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The next best price is $85
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $85
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese** White Capsule Trocken, Mosel 2016 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $49 Super Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2016 Riesling Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (White Capsule) is a different style of Mosel Riesling compared to the other 2016 Auslesen. Fermented in different oak vats, from barrique size to 3,000-liter vats (including one big Stockinger vat that was new), this is clear, ripe and complex on the nose, with toasty as well as smoky-mineral notes framing the perfectly ripe and elegant stone fruit aromas. Full-bodied, round and complex, with gorgeous sweetness and mind-blowing silkiness and balance, this is a rich yet fine, elegant, highly complex and persistent Auslese from Markus’s most important single vineyard. The 2016 is concentrated yet very clear and elegant, revealing very fine tannins and a very long, complex finish. It already drinks with great wonder, and this wine will even gain more complexity though it’s already hard to resist.”
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 95 points “Still a bit funky from the wild ferment. The power and delicacy are almost exactly matched here, and they are beautifully complemented by notes of nectarines and Mandarin oranges. The finish is long and very graceful. Better from 2019 and decades of aging potential ahead of it.”
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High-Scoring New Wines
from Cornas’ Domaine du Tunnel
Domaine du Tunnel makes wines that we love to put on the shelves—when we can. They’ve turned into one of the hottest names in the Northern Rhone over the last few years and as a result, allocations are tighter than they’ve ever been. We’ve secured a small stash, including their stunning white from St. Peray, which arrive next month. Lovers of rich, textured wines of both colors won’t want to miss out.
Arriving ETA March:
Domaine du Tunnel Saint-Peray Cuvee Roussanne 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Domaine du Tunnel Saint-Peray Cuvee Roussanne 2018 750ML ($419.95) $329 pre-arrival special (that’s only $54.83./bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “Starting with the 2018 Saint-Péray Roussanne, this cuvée is 100% varietal and is vinified in used barrels. It was bottled in July of this year and reveals a touch of green in its vivid gold color as well as notes of crushed citrus, lime, toasted bread, and flower oil. It’s a powerful, full-bodied white that stays pure, flawlessly balanced, and has a great, great finish. There aren’t many Roussanne whites out there better than this.”
Arriving ETA March:
Domaine du Tunnel Saint-Peray Cuvee Roussanne 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Domaine du Tunnel Saint-Peray Cuvee Roussanne 2018 750ML ($419.95) $329 pre-arrival special (that’s only $54.83./bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “Starting with the 2018 Saint-Péray Roussanne, this cuvée is 100% varietal and is vinified in used barrels. It was bottled in July of this year and reveals a touch of green in its vivid gold color as well as notes of crushed citrus, lime, toasted bread, and flower oil. It’s a powerful, full-bodied white that stays pure, flawlessly balanced, and has a great, great finish. There aren’t many Roussanne whites out there better than this.”
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Domaine du Tunnel Cornas 2018 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Domaine du Tunnel Cornas 2018 750ML ($479.95) $389 pre-arrival special (that’s only $64.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 95-97 points “Readers looking for the essence of Cornas would do well to pick up a case of the 2018 Cornas. Deep purple, with a heavenly bouquet of blueberries, raspberries, crushed violets, olives, ground pepper, and gamey meats, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a balanced, classy texture, building yet polished tannins, and a great finish. It’s a winner.”
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Collector’s Corner:
Biondi Santi
In the beginning there was Biondi-Santi. Yes, Biondi Santi is the genesis of modern Brunello. The combination of bottling 100% Sangiovese wine from Montalcino, propagating the Sangiovese Grosso clone, and finally (in 1966) helping draft the regulations for the Brunello DOC make that estate the alpha of the appellation, and for many collectors, the omega as well.
Biondi-Santi makes Brunello that other estates are judged against. Their estate, Il Greppo, occupies some of the most hallowed ground in the Brunello appellation, in the heart of Montalcino. Their standards are high (they rarely release riservas) and their style can only be described as classic. The wines are powerful, but not overwrought, elegant but emphatic. These are the wines that Brunello lovers dream about.
In Stock Now:
Biondi Santi Il Greppo, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Kerin O’Keefe- Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Underbrush, ripe berry, new leather and Mediterranean herb aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Showing youthful tension, the vibrant palate delivers red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and pipe tobacco notes framed by bright acidity and taut, refined tannins. It already shows great balance and finesse but is still young and tight. Drink 2022-2035.”
James Suckling 95 points “Love the dried lemon rind, florals and red fruits. Medium to full body and a solid core of fruit and spices. Long and flavorful finish. Just a hint of sweet tobacco. Better in 2020.”
Biondi-Santi makes Brunello that other estates are judged against. Their estate, Il Greppo, occupies some of the most hallowed ground in the Brunello appellation, in the heart of Montalcino. Their standards are high (they rarely release riservas) and their style can only be described as classic. The wines are powerful, but not overwrought, elegant but emphatic. These are the wines that Brunello lovers dream about.
In Stock Now:
Biondi Santi Il Greppo, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Kerin O’Keefe- Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Underbrush, ripe berry, new leather and Mediterranean herb aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Showing youthful tension, the vibrant palate delivers red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and pipe tobacco notes framed by bright acidity and taut, refined tannins. It already shows great balance and finesse but is still young and tight. Drink 2022-2035.”
James Suckling 95 points “Love the dried lemon rind, florals and red fruits. Medium to full body and a solid core of fruit and spices. Long and flavorful finish. Just a hint of sweet tobacco. Better in 2020.”
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Fontodi is one of Tuscany’s most respected estates, and for good reason. The grapes hail from a classic south-facing amphitheater replete with soils optimal for producing ripe yet balanced Sangiovese. What results are classically styled Chianti that more than earn their Classico designation. Unlike the forgettable (or worse yet disappointing) Chianti Classico that we’ve all encountered, Fontori’s wines are effortlessly delicious and harmonious, the gift of such high-quality base material.