In this newsletter…
Local Pride Mix & Match Subscriber Sale
Sequitur & Twill
Ending Tomorrow at 6 PM
Karthauserhof: Magical, Mineral Riesling &
Clos du Val Subscriber Special
2016 Le Pergole Torte
Trending
Collector’s Corner:
Chateau d’Yquem
Local Pride Mix & Match Subscriber Sale
Sequitur & Twill
Local Pride Subscriber Special:
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
Sequitur
Think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Freres over the decade. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Freres “Upper Terrace” but is planted to a wider array of clones at tighter spacing. It’s been farmed biodynamically since the beginning and is sheltered with Douglas Fir—in short, it’s the fully realized vision of a man who’s helped define Willamette Valley Pinot.
We’ve been big supporters of these wines since the very beginning of the project and our special relationship allows us to offer you verticals of both the Sequitur Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at exceptional pricing. We’re making that pricing even better for you, our email subscribers, until we close for business on Thursday.
In Stock Now from Sequitur:
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points “Limpid ruby-red. Smoky, mineral-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry cola and incense carry a strong spicecake overtone. Stains the palate with sappy red berry liqueur, spicecake and floral pastille flavors that are lifted and given definition and tension by juicy acidity. At once rich and nervy, with no excess fat but showing excellent depth and intensity of flavor. Finishes with sexy notes of candied violet and smoky Indian spices and superb, gently tannic persistence. This wine’s Beaux Freres bloodline is very clear to see.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Broad and spicy, open-textured and generous, with ripe plum and currant flavors, shaded by pepper, sage and coffee notes as the finish sails past fine-grained tannins. Completely harmonious and made to age. Drink now through 2024.”
We’ve been big supporters of these wines since the very beginning of the project and our special relationship allows us to offer you verticals of both the Sequitur Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at exceptional pricing. We’re making that pricing even better for you, our email subscribers, until we close for business on Thursday.
In Stock Now from Sequitur:
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 18 bottles in stock nowJosh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points “Limpid ruby-red. Smoky, mineral-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry cola and incense carry a strong spicecake overtone. Stains the palate with sappy red berry liqueur, spicecake and floral pastille flavors that are lifted and given definition and tension by juicy acidity. At once rich and nervy, with no excess fat but showing excellent depth and intensity of flavor. Finishes with sexy notes of candied violet and smoky Indian spices and superb, gently tannic persistence. This wine’s Beaux Freres bloodline is very clear to see.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Broad and spicy, open-textured and generous, with ripe plum and currant flavors, shaded by pepper, sage and coffee notes as the finish sails past fine-grained tannins. Completely harmonious and made to age. Drink now through 2024.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average listed price is $100
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 26 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Deep brilliant red. A strikingly complex bouquet evokes ripe, mineral-accented red berries, cherry cola, vanilla, five-spice powder and sandalwood. Alluringly sweet, seamless and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry liqueur, spicecake and lavender pastille flavors that are given spine and lift by a core of juicy acidity. Delivers a compelling blend of power and delicacy and finishes extremely long and smooth; rounded tannins frame the lingering red fruit preserve notes.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “Pale to medium ruby purple in color, the 2015 Sequitur Pinot Noir has a very provocative nose of Bing cherries and cranberries over a core of red roses, game, yeast extract and underbrush. Medium-bodied, with wonderful energy and freshness, it has a lively backbone and long finish paved with very fine, ripe tannins.”
Winery note “Sequitur 2015 Pinot Noir “Two fold,” a collaboration between our Mother, the earth, those of us who “play” in the vineyard and winery, and you, the wine lover.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The average listed price is $100
Now it’s even lower!
The average listed price is $100
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 36 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Glimmering red. A hugely aromatic bouquet evokes fresh red fruits, Asian spices and potpourri, along with a bright mineral overtone and a touch of smokiness. Juicy, seamless and precise on the palate, offering potent, mineral-laced raspberry preserve, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen and spread out steadily on the back half. Delivers a compelling blend of power and finesse and finishes with silky tannins, outstanding clarity and floral- and mineral-driven persistence.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2016 Sequitur Pinot Noir has a lovely, open nose of black and red cherries and blackberries with notions of wood smoke, turned earth, autumn leaves, cardamom and potpourri. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with ripe black and red fruits with wonderful earthy/spicy accents, very fine, grainy tannins and mouthwatering acidity, finishing long with spice and floral layers. 480 cases produced.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2016 Sequitur Pinot Noir has a lovely, open nose of black and red cherries and blackberries with notions of wood smoke, turned earth, autumn leaves, cardamom and potpourri. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with ripe black and red fruits with wonderful earthy/spicy accents, very fine, grainy tannins and mouthwatering acidity, finishing long with spice and floral layers. 480 cases produced.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $89.99
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $89.99
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($119.95) $79 Displayed Price, that’s $75.05 at 5% off or $71.10 at 10% off, 23 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-95 points “Lurid red. Spice-tinged blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola, incense and smoky minerals. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry and spicecake flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and mocha that build with air. Concentrated but also vibrant and precise in style, delivering superb finishing cut, well-knit tannins and impressive, fruit-driven persistence. (30% new French oak).”
Nick Stock-JamesSuckling 96 points “Beautifully deep, blueberries and plums on offer with notes of fresh violets and moist, fresh-tilled earth. This is full of life and very pure. The palate has focused and fresh tannins that sit in very vibrant style with a deep push of concentrated blue fruit, holding the finish in superb style. So fresh and long, this will age well. Drink across the next decade or more.”
Winery Note “TOTALITY—During the growing season of 2017, Oregon was treated to a total solar eclipse, where the moon passed exactly between the earth and the sun. Day turned to night, the temperature dropped and the farm animals were disoriented. The moment of awe was tempered with a deep sense of vulnerability, as we witnessed our world bow down to the power of nature. May this 2017 vintage seeped in “totality,” bring you a fresh perspective.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 Displayed Price, that’s $65.55 at 5% off or $62.10 at 10% off, 16 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2015 Sequitur Chardonnay delivers toasted almonds, baker’s yeast, fresh ginger and coriander seed on the nose with a core of grapefruit, white peaches and spiced apples. Light to medium-bodied, it gives a great intensity of savory flavor layers intermingled with stone fruit and citrus notions, finishing long with great freshness and mineral notes.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($89.95) $69 Displayed Price, that’s $65.55 at 5% off or $62.10 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2016 Sequitur Chardonnay has a gregarious nose of spiced, baked yellow apples and warm pineapple with notes of toast, honey, hazelnut and hay. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the mouth with warm orchard and tropical fruits accented by nuances of baking spice, nuts and honey, with a touch of creaminess to the texture, juicy acidity and a long, mineral-laced finish. 85 cases produced.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today
Now it’s even lower!
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($89.95) $69 Displayed Price, that’s $65.55 at 5% off or $62.10 at 10% off, 11 bottles in stock now
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Twill Cellars
Ask an established Willamette Valley winemaker who their favorite up & coming estates are, and you’ll invariably hear about Twill Cellars. Chris Dickson, one of the genuinely nicest guys we know, crafts unassumingly beautiful and profound wines for this relatively new winery. The Pinots are charming and lithe yet expressive. But the true magic is in the Syrah. He’s a Northern Rhone enthusiast and it shows in his wines that crackle with energy, showing notes of black pepper, violets, smoke and olives. These are aromatics that you’d expect from fine St Joseph or Crozes-Hermitage, but these are all Oregon, baby. He’s a producer on the rise and to help you explore, we’re including Twill Cellars in our Local Pride sale.
Local Pride Subscriber Special:
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
In Stock Now from Twill Cellars:
Twill Cellars Johan Vineyard Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off or $29.70 at 10% off, 5 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Aromas of lemon blossom, tangerine, salt, peach, crushed rock are complemented with undertones of fresh cream, lime and passion fruit. On the palate, notes of tangerine, and meyer lemon are wrapped up in a savory, bright, and chewy yet lithe frame. The finish carries on with an echo of minerals, cream, and citrus.”
Twill Cellars Johan Vineyard Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off or $29.70 at 10% off, 5 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Aromas of lemon blossom, tangerine, salt, peach, crushed rock are complemented with undertones of fresh cream, lime and passion fruit. On the palate, notes of tangerine, and meyer lemon are wrapped up in a savory, bright, and chewy yet lithe frame. The finish carries on with an echo of minerals, cream, and citrus.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Twill Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 Displayed Price, that’s $20.81 at 5% off or $19.71 at 10% off, 4 bottles in stock now
That’s the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Twill Cellars Johan Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 Displayed Price, that’s $31.35 at 5% off or $29.70 at 10% off, 4 bottles in stock now
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Twill Cellars Syrah, Oregon 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 Displayed Price, that’s $20.81 at 5% off or $19.71 at 10% off, 9 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Licorice, olive paste, black pepper, and huckleberry are immediate on the aromatics. In time, black raspberry, ground coffee and baker’s chocolate are evident with light notes of allspice, grapefruit, and lavender in the background. On the palate, this wine is savory, bright and elegant.”
That’s the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Twill Cellars Steelhead Run Vineyard Syrah, Applegate Valley 2016 750ML ($39.95) $36 Displayed Price, that’s $34.20 at 5% off or $32.40 at 10% off, 14 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points
That’s the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Local Pride Subscriber Special:
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ Twill Cellars and/or Sequitur Wines
Offer Ends Thursday, March 25th at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
Be a Friend/Tell a Friend
Oregon March Shipping Special
Free Oregon Ground Shipping on Orders Over $120
Ending Tomorrow at 6 PM
Karthauserhof: Magical, Mineral Riesling
Subscriber Special
5% Off Any Mix of 6-11 In Stock Karthauserhof Wines
10% Off Any Mix of 12+ In Stock Karthauserhof Wines
Offer Ends Tuesday, March 23rd at 6 PM
Discount Will Not Display Online or In Your Cart
We will adjust your invoice before processing your card
Karthauserhof is a special and unique winery even in a region known for its historic estates. It combines unique, historical sites, with own-rooted vines and visionary ownership throughout its centuries. The winery dates back to at least the 13th century and takes its name from the original use of the building and plantings as a Carthusian monastery. In the centuries since its establishment, Karthauserhof has become one of the two vanguard producers of the Ruwer Valley, a small, colder tributary of the Mosel. The resulting wines combine the power and complexity of old vineyards, often own-rooted, in great soils with a modern eye toward polish and raciness. These wines are made even greater by our sharp pricing.
Shop the entire selection of Karthauserhof Wines on our webstore!
Beauty and Savings
Clos du Val Subscriber Special
Ends Tuesday!
To quote Antonio Galloni, these are “two absolutely gorgeous and super-classic Stags Leap Cabernets.” We think you’ll find them all that more appealing with our sharp subscriber pricing!
Clos du Val Subscriber Pricing Ends Tuesday, March 24th at 6 PM
One of the best wines from the Stags Leap District in Napa.
Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondelle Vineyard Stags Leap District, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($149.95) Was $119, Now $99 Subscriber Special, 7 bottles in stock now
Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondelle Vineyard Stags Leap District, Napa Valley 2014 1.5L ($299.95) Was $239, Now $219 Subscriber Special, 1 magnum in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Deep, inky and enveloping, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondelle Estate Vineyard captures all the elements that make Stags Leaps Cabernets so compelling. A host of lavender, mint, sage, graphite and crème de cassis notes flesh out in an effortless, noble Cabernet Sauvignon endowed with notable depth and intensity.”
Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondelle Vineyard Stags Leap District, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($149.95) Was $119, Now $99 Subscriber Special, 7 bottles in stock nowClos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondelle Vineyard Stags Leap District, Napa Valley 2014 1.5L ($299.95) Was $239, Now $219 Subscriber Special, 1 magnum in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Deep, inky and enveloping, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondelle Estate Vineyard captures all the elements that make Stags Leaps Cabernets so compelling. A host of lavender, mint, sage, graphite and crème de cassis notes flesh out in an effortless, noble Cabernet Sauvignon endowed with notable depth and intensity.”
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
Clos du Val Winemaker’s Signature Series Three Graces Red Blend, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($199.95) Was $169, Now $149 Subscriber Special, 7 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2014 Three Graces is a new wine from Clos du Val that replaces the former Reserve. Inky, rich and powerful, the 2014 possesses superb intensity and resonance, with plenty of dark fruit spice, lavender and French oak notes. I suspect it will be at least a few years before the 2014 starts to show its full potential.”
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2014 Three Graces is a new wine from Clos du Val that replaces the former Reserve. Inky, rich and powerful, the 2014 possesses superb intensity and resonance, with plenty of dark fruit spice, lavender and French oak notes. I suspect it will be at least a few years before the 2014 starts to show its full potential.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $172
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
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.)
www.vinopoliswineshop.com
info@vinopoliswineshop.com
503-223-6002
2016 Le Pergole Torte
Arriving Early April
Our annual offer of Le Pergole Torte is one of the highlights of the year for lovers of classical Tuscan wine. Perhaps no wine short of Soldera and Biondi-Santi’s Riserva manages to capture the aristocratic nature of the Sanviovese grape. The 2016 is perhaps the finest vintage yet—a capstone on a year when everything went right in Tuscany. A rising tide might lift all boats, but Montevertine seemed to float amongst the clouds.
If you’re unfamiliar with the wine, know that one of Chianti’s greatest wines isn’t labeled as a Chianti, despite being made in the heart of the Classico zone. Montevertine originally left the appellation because at the time, white grapes were required to call a wine Chianti and Sergio Manetti wanted to make a wine that was 100% Sangiovese, a scandalous thing. Thus Le Pergole Torte was born. It’s a special wine, one that stops a conversation every time you get a chance to taste it.
It’s tempting to compare this wine to Grand Cru Burgundy, after all, most of Montevertine’s most ardent fans are Burg lovers first and foremost. That’s doing it a disservice, though—this is a wine that is iconic in its own right.
If you’re unfamiliar with the wine, know that one of Chianti’s greatest wines isn’t labeled as a Chianti, despite being made in the heart of the Classico zone. Montevertine originally left the appellation because at the time, white grapes were required to call a wine Chianti and Sergio Manetti wanted to make a wine that was 100% Sangiovese, a scandalous thing. Thus Le Pergole Torte was born. It’s a special wine, one that stops a conversation every time you get a chance to taste it.
It’s tempting to compare this wine to Grand Cru Burgundy, after all, most of Montevertine’s most ardent fans are Burg lovers first and foremost. That’s doing it a disservice, though—this is a wine that is iconic in its own right.
Arriving ETA Early April
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($199.95) $179 pre-arrival special, 24+ bottles available
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 1.5L ($419.95) $369 pre-arrival special, 4 magnums available
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 3L ($999.95) $799 pre-arrival special, 2 double-magnums available
Antonio Galloni 99 points “The 2016 Le Pergole Torte is magnificent, just as it was last year. Rich, dense and explosive, with stunning depth and texture, the 2016 possesses off the charts intensity while remaining light on its feet for such rich a powerful, lay+ered wine. There is almost no perception of tannin. Black cherry, plum, lavender, menthol, spice and new leather all meld together in a pliant, striking Pergole Torte endowed with tremendous pedigree and nuance. Put simply, the 2016 is off the charts great. The only reason the 2016 does not earn a perfect score is that cramped quarters in the cellar oblige Montevertine to bottle Pergole Torte in several lots.”
In Stock Now:
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($189.95) $166 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2015 Le Pergole Torte captures all the radiance and intensity of the vintage. Deep, powerful and resonant, the 2015 will be a racy wine once it emerges from its recent bottling. As always, the Pergole Torte is differentiated from the Montevertine by its greater textural richness and perfume. In 2015, Pergole Torte is exotically ripe and flamboyant, not to mention utterly captivating. Don’t miss it.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96-98 points “Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2015 Le Pergole Torte is a 100% expression of Sangiovese sourced from the estate’s oldest vines (between 30 and 50 years old). Like the other wines from Montevertine, Le Pergole Torte sees both its alcoholic and malolactic fermentations in cement, and the wine later ages in new oak barrels for 12 to 18 months depending on the vintage. After that first phase in barrique, it goes into large botte to complete its integration. This gorgeous vintage opens to a deep, dark appearance with a velvety presentation of dark fruit and black cherry flavors. The wine’s textural richness is ultimately what sets this fantastic vintage apart.”
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The flagship 2014 Le Pergole Torte possesses striking depth, nuance and pliancy, all in the midweight, slightly slender style of the vintage. Sweet red cherry, plum, cinnamon, dried flowers, mint, cinnamon and pomegranate infuse this super-expressive, sexy Pergole Torte.”
James Suckling 96 points “A transparent wine with flowers, dark fruit and citrus fruit on the nose. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a bright and fresh finish. I love the dynamic cherry and vivid floral character. Mineral, too. Bright acidity. This is one of the best wines of the 2014 vintage in Tuscany. Auguri. Drink or hold.”
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 1.5L ($419.95) $369 pre-arrival special, 4 magnums available
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 3L ($999.95) $799 pre-arrival special, 2 double-magnums available
Antonio Galloni 99 points “The 2016 Le Pergole Torte is magnificent, just as it was last year. Rich, dense and explosive, with stunning depth and texture, the 2016 possesses off the charts intensity while remaining light on its feet for such rich a powerful, lay+ered wine. There is almost no perception of tannin. Black cherry, plum, lavender, menthol, spice and new leather all meld together in a pliant, striking Pergole Torte endowed with tremendous pedigree and nuance. Put simply, the 2016 is off the charts great. The only reason the 2016 does not earn a perfect score is that cramped quarters in the cellar oblige Montevertine to bottle Pergole Torte in several lots.”
In Stock Now:
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($189.95) $166 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2015 Le Pergole Torte captures all the radiance and intensity of the vintage. Deep, powerful and resonant, the 2015 will be a racy wine once it emerges from its recent bottling. As always, the Pergole Torte is differentiated from the Montevertine by its greater textural richness and perfume. In 2015, Pergole Torte is exotically ripe and flamboyant, not to mention utterly captivating. Don’t miss it.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96-98 points “Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2015 Le Pergole Torte is a 100% expression of Sangiovese sourced from the estate’s oldest vines (between 30 and 50 years old). Like the other wines from Montevertine, Le Pergole Torte sees both its alcoholic and malolactic fermentations in cement, and the wine later ages in new oak barrels for 12 to 18 months depending on the vintage. After that first phase in barrique, it goes into large botte to complete its integration. This gorgeous vintage opens to a deep, dark appearance with a velvety presentation of dark fruit and black cherry flavors. The wine’s textural richness is ultimately what sets this fantastic vintage apart.”
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The flagship 2014 Le Pergole Torte possesses striking depth, nuance and pliancy, all in the midweight, slightly slender style of the vintage. Sweet red cherry, plum, cinnamon, dried flowers, mint, cinnamon and pomegranate infuse this super-expressive, sexy Pergole Torte.”
James Suckling 96 points “A transparent wine with flowers, dark fruit and citrus fruit on the nose. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a bright and fresh finish. I love the dynamic cherry and vivid floral character. Mineral, too. Bright acidity. This is one of the best wines of the 2014 vintage in Tuscany. Auguri. Drink or hold.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
The average price nationally is $135
Trending
This wine is the vanguard of ‘New Oregon’ – value-driven, exceptionally crafted wine that takes its queue from the Loire Valley instead of Burgundy.
Bow & Arrow Rhinestone Red, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($26.95) Was $21.90, Now $18 Subscriber Special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Winery Note “To understand Rhinestones we have to talk about the Cheverny region of France’s Loire Valley where, by law, the red wines must be a blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir. We follow this stricture with all the Pinot and Gamay fruit we source from Johan Vineyard. The blend is determined by nature and vintage. Aged in a mixture of concrete and old barriques, this wine is the flagship of the Bow & Arrow operation and communicates what we’re about as much as anything we make. Effortlessly drinkable but rewards detective work if you’re in the mood.”
Bow & Arrow Rhinestone Red, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($26.95) Was $21.90, Now $18 Subscriber Special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Winery Note “To understand Rhinestones we have to talk about the Cheverny region of France’s Loire Valley where, by law, the red wines must be a blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir. We follow this stricture with all the Pinot and Gamay fruit we source from Johan Vineyard. The blend is determined by nature and vintage. Aged in a mixture of concrete and old barriques, this wine is the flagship of the Bow & Arrow operation and communicates what we’re about as much as anything we make. Effortlessly drinkable but rewards detective work if you’re in the mood.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.99
Big and rich, drink this one with cassoulet or stew.
Domaine des Bosquets Gigondas, Rhone 2016 750ML ($31.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 92 points “Leading off the wines from bottle, the 2016 Gigondas is a classic wine from this estate, offering a deeper ruby/purple color as well as tons of garrigue, peppery spice, and earth intermixed with ample red and black fruits. Polished, rounded and sexy, with sweet tannin, it has a modern style that won’t appeal to traditionalists yet is beautifully done. The blend is 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Vivid ruby-red. Lively, expansive red berry, floral pastille and white pepper scents, along with suggestions of garrigue and smoky minerals. Sweet, focused and seamless in the mouth, offering juicy raspberry, spicecake and lavender flavors that deepen steadily on the back half. Clings with very good authority on the gently tannic finish and leaves succulent floral and herb notes behind.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 92 points “Hints of garrigue accent raspberries and Rainier cherries in the 2016 Gigondas. This blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault is full-bodied and supple, with no hard edges, just lovely fruit. Long, seamless and delicious for drinking over the next 6-7 years, it’s a terrific introduction to the fruit-forward style at this estate. Tasted twice with consistent notes.”
Domaine des Bosquets Gigondas, Rhone 2016 750ML ($31.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock nowJeb Dunnuck 92 points “Leading off the wines from bottle, the 2016 Gigondas is a classic wine from this estate, offering a deeper ruby/purple color as well as tons of garrigue, peppery spice, and earth intermixed with ample red and black fruits. Polished, rounded and sexy, with sweet tannin, it has a modern style that won’t appeal to traditionalists yet is beautifully done. The blend is 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Vivid ruby-red. Lively, expansive red berry, floral pastille and white pepper scents, along with suggestions of garrigue and smoky minerals. Sweet, focused and seamless in the mouth, offering juicy raspberry, spicecake and lavender flavors that deepen steadily on the back half. Clings with very good authority on the gently tannic finish and leaves succulent floral and herb notes behind.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 92 points “Hints of garrigue accent raspberries and Rainier cherries in the 2016 Gigondas. This blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault is full-bodied and supple, with no hard edges, just lovely fruit. Long, seamless and delicious for drinking over the next 6-7 years, it’s a terrific introduction to the fruit-forward style at this estate. Tasted twice with consistent notes.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
We loved this wine so much that we bought out the winery on release. We have no regrets.
Goodfellow Family Cellars Richard’s Cuvee Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($49.95) $44 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
John Gilman 92+ points “The Whistling Ridge Vineyard lies in the Ribbon Ridge AVA. It was first planted in 1990 (with these chardonnay vines going in the ground in 1995) and has a southeasterly exposition and sits high up on its ridge top, with cooling breezes coming in every afternoon and evening. The 2017 Richard’s Cuvée bottling reflects this cooler microclimate, coming in at 12.5 percent octane and offering up a lovely and quite floral bouquet of white peach, pear, fresh almond, lovely soil tones, white lilies and a touch of vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is pure, fullish and very elegant in profile, with fine soil signature, a good core of fruit, bright acids and fine focus and grip on the long and complex finish. This is lovely. 2020-2040. 92+.”
Winery Note “Subtle, nuanced, beautiful, and incredibly fine; the 2017 Richard’s Cuvée was sourced from a single 820L foudre of Chardonnay from Whistling Ridge Vineyard. The wine shows extraordinary balance and layering, with lemon curd, sea air, almond blossom and delicate smoke. Forest moss, meyer lemon, summer grasses, salt stones and wild ginger. The palate has tremendous build, yet remains essentially a reflective wine.”
Goodfellow Family Cellars Richard’s Cuvee Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($49.95) $44 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
John Gilman 92+ points “The Whistling Ridge Vineyard lies in the Ribbon Ridge AVA. It was first planted in 1990 (with these chardonnay vines going in the ground in 1995) and has a southeasterly exposition and sits high up on its ridge top, with cooling breezes coming in every afternoon and evening. The 2017 Richard’s Cuvée bottling reflects this cooler microclimate, coming in at 12.5 percent octane and offering up a lovely and quite floral bouquet of white peach, pear, fresh almond, lovely soil tones, white lilies and a touch of vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is pure, fullish and very elegant in profile, with fine soil signature, a good core of fruit, bright acids and fine focus and grip on the long and complex finish. This is lovely. 2020-2040. 92+.”
Winery Note “Subtle, nuanced, beautiful, and incredibly fine; the 2017 Richard’s Cuvée was sourced from a single 820L foudre of Chardonnay from Whistling Ridge Vineyard. The wine shows extraordinary balance and layering, with lemon curd, sea air, almond blossom and delicate smoke. Forest moss, meyer lemon, summer grasses, salt stones and wild ginger. The palate has tremendous build, yet remains essentially a reflective wine.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
One of the best wines from Ventoux, this is a stunner, especially under $40.
Chateau Pesquie Ventoux Artemia 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Chateau Pesquie Ventoux Artemia, Rhone 2016 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle—the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Decanter-World Wine Awards 97 points “This is stacked with the black fruits of the region, plus violets, thyme, lavender, dried herbs and tannins that are ripe and of the appropriate proportion. Still very youthful and will flourish with time in bottle. Modern and very classy indeed. Genius wine, very long and intense, its purity magnificent.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Made from equal parts Syrah and Grenache, the 2016 Ventoux Cuvee Artemia is another terrific vintage for this cuvee. Still young, backward and unevolved, it has tons of potential in its blue fruits, graphite, crushed rock and violet-tinged aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, with terrific purity of fruit, and fine, building tannin, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will keep for a decade or more.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “A 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah, aged in 50% new oak, the 2016 Ventoux Artemia is a tremendous effort. It combines blueberries and stone fruit with cedary notes and then underscores those attractive aromas and flavors with a full-bodied, velvety texture and a bright, crisp finish. Lovely stuff.”
A Petrus-challenging Merlot from a classic Tuscan estate.
Tua Rita Redigaffi Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($299.95) $229 special, 11 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 100 points “This is an extraordinary merlot with such purity and focus. Flowers such as violets and hints of orange peel. It is full-bodied yet incredibly energetic and structured. The finish goes on for minutes. Seamless texture. Fresh yet dense. Contrasty. Best Redigaffi ever. Hard not to drink now but a wine for decades.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Lush and polished, featuring a cashmere texture caressing vanilla, chocolate, black cherry and plum flavors. Well-balanced, with a persistent finish. The harmony hides a solid structure. Decant now. Merlot. Best from 2020 through 2032.”
Casa Castillo Vino de Finca, Jumilla 2017 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Casa Castillo Vino de Finca, Jumilla 2017 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Luis Gutierrez 93+ points “There is a big jump in depth, complexity and nuance between the Monastrell and the 2017 Vino de Finca, which is a blend of Monastrell with almost 25% Garnacha. This comes from four plots that were selected from what was previously used for the entry-level Monastrell; they aim was to find a wine with more finesse and elegance but with the inherent power of the zone. This is only the third vintage for this cuvée, and it feels quite established and different from the rest of the range; it has less varietal character and is more about the place, getting closer to the single-vineyard bottlings where they do not search for fruit character. The idea here is to ferment at temperatures that are quite so low and to stabilize the wine in oak barrels for a long-ish time (12 months in 500-liter barrels and 5,000-liter oak foudres). They are wines of sun and limestone. This is a good reflection of it with a perfumed and floral note on the finish (elegance!) that is quite remarkable. 31,000 bottles produced in 2017. It was bottled in November 2018.”
Chateau Pesquie Ventoux Artemia 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock nowCase-6 Chateau Pesquie Ventoux Artemia, Rhone 2016 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle—the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Decanter-World Wine Awards 97 points “This is stacked with the black fruits of the region, plus violets, thyme, lavender, dried herbs and tannins that are ripe and of the appropriate proportion. Still very youthful and will flourish with time in bottle. Modern and very classy indeed. Genius wine, very long and intense, its purity magnificent.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Made from equal parts Syrah and Grenache, the 2016 Ventoux Cuvee Artemia is another terrific vintage for this cuvee. Still young, backward and unevolved, it has tons of potential in its blue fruits, graphite, crushed rock and violet-tinged aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, with terrific purity of fruit, and fine, building tannin, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will keep for a decade or more.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “A 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah, aged in 50% new oak, the 2016 Ventoux Artemia is a tremendous effort. It combines blueberries and stone fruit with cedary notes and then underscores those attractive aromas and flavors with a full-bodied, velvety texture and a bright, crisp finish. Lovely stuff.”
A Petrus-challenging Merlot from a classic Tuscan estate.
Tua Rita Redigaffi Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($299.95) $229 special, 11 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 100 points “This is an extraordinary merlot with such purity and focus. Flowers such as violets and hints of orange peel. It is full-bodied yet incredibly energetic and structured. The finish goes on for minutes. Seamless texture. Fresh yet dense. Contrasty. Best Redigaffi ever. Hard not to drink now but a wine for decades.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Lush and polished, featuring a cashmere texture caressing vanilla, chocolate, black cherry and plum flavors. Well-balanced, with a persistent finish. The harmony hides a solid structure. Decant now. Merlot. Best from 2020 through 2032.”
Casa Castillo Vino de Finca, Jumilla 2017 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Casa Castillo Vino de Finca, Jumilla 2017 750ML ($299.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Luis Gutierrez 93+ points “There is a big jump in depth, complexity and nuance between the Monastrell and the 2017 Vino de Finca, which is a blend of Monastrell with almost 25% Garnacha. This comes from four plots that were selected from what was previously used for the entry-level Monastrell; they aim was to find a wine with more finesse and elegance but with the inherent power of the zone. This is only the third vintage for this cuvée, and it feels quite established and different from the rest of the range; it has less varietal character and is more about the place, getting closer to the single-vineyard bottlings where they do not search for fruit character. The idea here is to ferment at temperatures that are quite so low and to stabilize the wine in oak barrels for a long-ish time (12 months in 500-liter barrels and 5,000-liter oak foudres). They are wines of sun and limestone. This is a good reflection of it with a perfumed and floral note on the finish (elegance!) that is quite remarkable. 31,000 bottles produced in 2017. It was bottled in November 2018.”
Collector’s Corner:
Chateau d’Yquem
“Chateau d’Yquem is arguably the most prestigious sweet wine in the world” –James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“What Nature bestowed in 2015 is everything you could possibly desire in a Sauternes” –Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
2015 Chateau d’Yquem is looking like one of the two best wines the estate has produced this century (trailing, perhaps by a hair, the 2001). In other words, it’s a monumental wine—a true collector’s icon and one of the most complex wines produced anywhere in the world in 2015. We’ve sold out half bottles of the liquid gold, but have the much rarer “large formats” in stock—750’s and (more impressively) magnums of this legend. Only a very tiny percentage of d’Yquem is bottled in large formats, so securing any, much less three magnums, is a feat.
In Stock Now:
Chateau d’Yquem, Sauternes 2015 750ML ($499.95) $379 special, 16 bottles in stock nowChateau d’Yquem, Sauternes 2015 1.5L ($1,099.95) $879 special, 3 magnums in stock now
Wine Advocate 100 points “Following a very long harvest stretching nearly two months, the 2015 Château d’Yquem came in at 13.9% alcohol and 144 grams per liter of residual sugar, sporting a pH of 3.65 and six grams per liter of tartaric acid. None of these numbers, however, even remotely begin to tell you how profound this wine is. The nose opens with electric notes of ripe pineapples, green mango, orange blossoms and lemon tart with hints of fungi, lime zest, crushed rocks and jasmine. The freshness on the palate is just astonishing, permeating and lifting layer upon layer of tropical fruits and earthy notions, all encased in a sumptuous texture and culminating in a very, very long, mineral-tinged finish. Truly, this is a legendary vintage for d’Yquem. I’ve been conservative with my drinking window here, and I would not be at all surprised if our descendants are drinking this vintage well into the next century.-LPB”
James Suckling 99-100 points “This is an incredible young Yquem that is so vinous like a great vintage of Montrachet but then on the palate it turns to Yquem with spice, dried fruit and mushroom as well as sweet fruit. Last for minutes. Acidity is all there giving it a dynamic vibrance that jolts your senses. Special wine. It has a little more than than 140 grams of residual sugar, less than the legendary of 2001. But is very close in greatness. Let’s wait and see.”
Antonio Galloni 98 points ” The 2015 d’Yquem is without question one of the wines of the vintage. Just as alluring from bottle as it was from barrel, the 2015 is a wine that engages all of the senses, from the intellectual to the more hedonistic. Lilting notes of pineapple, mint, orange peel and white flowers grace the palate, but it is the wine’s sense of balance and total harmony that impress most. In 2015, Yquem had its earliest start to the harvest since 1893. Even so, the winemaking team did a magnificent job of preserving freshness. The 2015 was fermented in 100% new oak, and residual sugar is 145 grams per liter, but great wine is never about numbers. Above all else, the 2015 Yquem is a wine of energy and class. Don’t miss it!”
Wine Enthusiast 96-98 points “Barrel Sample. This wine is ethereal. It certainly offers attractive honey and bitter orange flavors but also a fresh character that gives the wine lift and crispness. It is, of course, going to age magnificently, although it is so delicious and refreshing now.”
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.
Reynvaan is one of the top estates in Walla Walla, making wines in a style clearly influenced by former consulting winemaker Christophe Baron of Cayuse. They’ve recently launched an entry-level tier of wines, which they call “the Unnamed Series.” These are delicious wines that are perfect for early drinking in quantity while waiting for the big boys to age. The winery is careful to note that these are wines that receive the same treatment as their main wines—organically farmed and hand harvested, with native fermentation and choice cooperage (often Taransaud). In short, these are Tuesday night Reynvaans. So stock up & save big.
The Produttori del Barbaresco’s Barbaresco normale bottling is one of the most important wines in the Piedmont. Perhaps no other wine is as representative of a single place as Produttori’s. In a great vintage like 2016 (or ’13/’10/etc) it’s also one of the singularly best values out there. This is a wine that’s classically built and traditionally vinified from exceptional fruit sources.
Scott Frank’s Bow and Arrow Rhinestones bottling combines Pinot Noir and Gamay to make the most appealing wine from the Valley under $25/bottle. This wine is the vanguard of ‘New Oregon’ – value-driven, exceptionally crafted wines that take their queue from the Loire Valley instead of Burgundy. Juicy, fresh and slightly peppery (from the Gamay) it’s a red wine that manages to refresh with ease. We sell a lot of it, for good reason-it’s a wine that manages to pair with nearly anything, or be delicious on its own. 
