Sunday Night Newsletter 6-19-22

 

In This Newsletter:

Featured New Arrival:
2017 Produttori Crus


New Week – New Arrivals


Producer Spotlight:
Jean Foillard


Collector’s Corner:
Pol Roger: New Offer & Top Wines In Stock Now


  

Featured New Arrival

2017 Produttori Crus


“Aldo Vacca and his team at the Produttori del Barbaresco cooperative continue to turn out gorgeous wines that deliver a remarkable combination of quality and value…” –Antonio Galloni, Vinous

“[Produttori del Barbaresco is] one of the most important and quality-minded co-operatives in the world…” –Jeb Dunnuck

“I’ve written this many times before, but it bears repeating: Produttori del Barbaresco is one of Italy’s ultimate values for your money.” –Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

Produttori del Barbaresco is revered for producing classically-styled Barbaresco and Riservas of uncompromising quality and transparency. It’s a miracle that these wines are still affordable and available, especially when compared to the skyrocketing prices of Barolo. 

You’d be hard-pressed to find such consistent quality and complexity out of such an extensive range of single-vineyard Nebbiolos anywhere else. 2017 is being compared to the legendary 2015 harvest, with a warm and dry growing season against cool nights and timely rains making for ripe but not overwrought wines. This was on account of the season’s early warmth, which contributed to smaller leaves during the vegetative growth period according to Gaia Gaja of the eponymous cult label. The smaller leaves meant for slower sugar accumulation, resulting in wines that were able to maintain balance.   

Newly Arrived Produttori Crus: 

Produttori del Barbaresco Asili Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Asili is a real stand out. It captures all the sensuality of the year while retaining the translucence and freshness of Nebbiolo. Rose petal, crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon and spice develop with a bit of coaxing. This is another gorgeous wine from the Produttori. Asili is widely regarded as one of the best vineyards in Barbaresco, maybe the best. This wine shows why.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Montefico is one of the stand-outs in this range. It shows the piercing tannins typical of this site, and yet has more than enough fruit to balance those tannins, certainly moreso than wines like the Rabajà. This exposed site benefits from cooling winds from the north, clearly a benefit in 2017. Even in the early going, the balance here is terrific. In 2017, the Montefico is one of the clear stand outs in the range.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 1.5L ($189.95) $169 pre-arrival special, only 2 magnums available, ETA late June
Antonio Galloni 93+ points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is a potent, savory wine. Today, the fruit is very much in the background. A brooding, backward Barbaresco, the Montestefano clearly needs time, it is a somber, imposing Barbaresco. Dark plum, earthiness, cloves, menthol and licorice infuse the finish with notable gravitas. There’s plenty of Montestefano breadth and resonance.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($89.95) $71.90 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is one of the lighter wines in this range. Floral and medium in body, the 2017 gives the impression of a wine that will open earlier than some of the others. It, too, has pretty imposing tannins though, so a few years in bottle are advisable. Crushed flowers, sweet red cherry, mint and white pepper linger.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $85 special
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 1.5L ($199.95) $179 pre-arrival special, only 3 magnums available, ETA late June
Antonio Galloni 94 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a heady, explosive wine. I don’t think I have ever tasted an Ovello from the Produttori with this much heft. The strong mineral and saline accents typical of this site are present, but they are matched pound for pound by notable mid-palate richness and intensity in its fruit. The 2017 is a brooding powerhouse that needs time to unwind.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Paje Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Pajè is a fine choice for readers who enjoy wines of freshness, verve and energy. Dark fruit, menthol, spice, pine and crushed rocks are beautifully delineated. This is an especially chiseled wine in the range of 2017 Riservas. I very much like the balance of richness and vibrancy. In a word: classic.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Produttori del Barbaresco Pora Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special
Antonio Galloni 93 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is rich, creamy and layered, with a bit more generosity than is typically the case. Sweet red cherry, red plum, spice and rose petal are amplified in a radiant, open-knit Barbaresco that will start drinking well in a few years’ time.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $85 special
Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 1.5L ($219.95) $189 pre-arrival special, only 3 magnums available, ETA late June
Antonio Galloni 94 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is a potent, searingly tannic wine that will need a few years to come together. Brooding and backward, even for young Rabajà, the 2017 is painfully young today. It will be interesting to see what time brings. Today, the 2017 is a real powerhouse. Black fruit, menthol, licorice, melted road tar, game and menthol develop in the glass, but only with great reluctance.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special
Antonio Galloni 93 points
“The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo shows the natural intensity of the year, and yet retains a good bit of the aromatic lift that is so typical of Nebbiolo at its best. Silky, perfumed and poised, the Rio Sordo is impressive in this tasting. Spice and floral notes lift a core of red-toned fruit in this mid-weight yet packed Barbaresco from the Produttori. This has very fine potential.”

We offer impeccably cellared back vintages of Produttori – shop the full selection on our web store now!


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Order Online / By Phone / By Email
Thank you from the team at Vinopolis!

Be well & drink well.


New Week – New Arrivals

Rosé

Feudo Montoni ‘Rose di Adele’ Nerello Mascalese Rosato Sicilia 2021 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 91 points
“The 2021 Rosé Nerello Mascalese di Adele is remarkably pretty with a copper-tinged, pink color and a dazzling mix of exotic spice, mint and tropical citrus. Its silky textures wash across the palate, with ripe orchard fruits and melon nicely contrasted by cooling herbal tones. The 2021 finishes with a slight tug of sweet tannin that frames the expression well, as inner florals slowly fade. I absolutely love the balance and vibrancy here.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $22

Funaro Nero d’Avola Rosato, Sicily 2021 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Distributor note
“Wild, bright berry goodness with watermelon jolly rancher vibes coming at you! The 2021 Funaro Nero d’Avola Rosato is *finally* here and ready to be gulped… Siblings Tiziana, Clemente, and Giacomo Funaro took over the family holdings in 2003 and straight away started to build an eco-friendly winery facility complete with solar electricity and a natural wastewater recycling system. They obtained organic certification for their vineyards, olive groves, and orchards in 2011. Most of the vineyards are located on the family estate in the village of Salemi, in loamy soils at about 140 meters in elevation.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!


Oregon

Cowhorn Marsanne – Roussanne, Applegate Valley 2019 750ML ($37.95) $33 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Winery note
“Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden grows grape varietals that are historically associated with the Rhône River wine region of France: Syrah and Grenache for red wine, and Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne for white wine. All of Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden’s wines are made with 100% estate-grown fruit from 25 planted acres.”
Biodynamic

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $40

Arterberry Maresh Weber Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 97 points
“The 2018 Pinot Noir Weber Vineyard comes from Pommard clone vines planted in 1983. It features pure aromas of cranberry and black raspberry with botanical and floral layers. The palate is seamless and complex, with powerful flavors, a silty texture and bright acidity, finishing with layer after layer of sweet berry fruit.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Deep crimson. Highly perfumed aromas of red and blue fruit preserves, cola, candied flowers and baking spices, along with a smoky mineral overtone. Concentrated yet lively on the palate, offering mineral-accented black raspberry, cherry liqueur, violet pastille and spicecake flavors that spread out slowly with air. Conveys a deft blend of power and finesse and finishes with steadily building tannins and strong, spicy persistence.”


California

Anakota Helena Montana Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley 2018 750ML ($149.95) $135 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 97+ points
“Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard spent 12 months in 100% new French oak. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts from the glass with bold scents of fresh blackberries, black currants and mulberries plus suggestions of cedar chest, pencil lead, iron ore and truffles, with emerging wafts of crushed rocks and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers firm, grainy, exquisitely ripe tannins and seamless freshness supporting layer upon layer of black fruits, finishing on a long-lingering fragrant earth note.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard hails from a single vineyard in Knights Valley located at 950 feet in elevation. It has a brilliant nose of savory red and black currants, dried herbs, saddle leather, and tobacco, with a decidedly Bordeaux-like vibe in both its aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied and nicely concentrated, with ripe tannins on the palate, this is a serious, captivating, incredibly impressive Cabernet that will shine for at least two decades. You could put this beauty in a lineup of First Growth Bordeaux and it would do just fine.”


France – Burgundy

Bret Brothers Pouilly-Fuisse Climat En Carementrant, Maconnais 2020 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 9 bottles in stock now
“The Bret Brothers’ négociant house is a fine source of elegant, classy Mâconnais wines derived from fruit that’s either organically farmed or in organic conversion and deftly vinified by this talented and industrious duo. Fermentations with ambient microflora, long élevage and discretion with oak are the order of the day at this address.” -William Kelley, Wine Advocate [2020 not reviewed yet]

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Fuisse Climat en Chatenay Cuvee Zen, Maconnais 2020 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Burghound 91-94 points
“Sweet Spot Outstanding. A subtle but easily perceptible dollop of wood is present on the almost painfully intense and overtly powerful larger-scaled flavors that also exude a bracing salinity on the youthfully austere, serious and lingering finish that already offers fine depth. This possesses fine development potential though at least some patience is again advised.” [Review is for the standard bottling. The Cuvee Zen contains less added sulfur.]

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts, Maconnais 2020 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Burghound 90-93 points
“Outstanding. Ripe and beautifully layered aromas include those of petrol, citrus zest and spiced poached pear. There is impressive density to the sappy and attractively rich medium-bodied flavors that possess a lovely texture before terminating in a bitter lemon and palate coating finale. This mineral-driven effort is clearly built-to-age and a wine that will need at least a few years first.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

La Soufrandiere Pouilly-Vinzelles Climat Les Quarts Cuvee Millerandee, Maconnais 2020 1.5L ($219.95) $179 special, 1 magnum in stock now
Burghound 91-93 points
“Sweet Spot. Discreet wood sets off similar if more floral but less citrus infused aromas. As is usually the case, the medium weight plus flavors possess outstanding mid-palate density while exhibiting a caressing yet powerful mouthfeel while the longer and complex finish also flashes plenty of minerality. This too is constructed to reward mid-term cellaring and I would advise allowing it at least 3 to 5 years of cellaring first. One to look for.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!


France – Provence

Chateau Pradeaux Bandol, Provence 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Wine importer note
“The Bandol from Pradeaux is a creature whose soul emerges from Mourvèdre. The classic cuvée is 95% Mourvèdre and 5% Grenache, with the Grenache adding spice to the bouquet and leavening some of the drama provided by the intimidating structure of the Mourvèdre. One of the hallmarks of Pradeaux is that the grapes are never destemmed. The result is a wine of ferocious tannin in its youth, another reason for the prolonged aging in these large wooden barrels, a time for the wine to repose and find its identity as it emerges from the cocoon of tannins to reveal an exceptionally complex crowd of aromas and flavors. Although situated mere steps from the Mediterranean, harvest at Pradeaux (always manual) frequently starts in earnest for the Mourvedre during the first weeks of October. The average age of the vines is approximately 35 years and harvest levels are quite low, often in the range of 25 hectoliters per hectare. Fermentation occurs at temperatures between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius and the wines are racked into large oak ovals and foudres where they rest with occasional rackings for four years before being bottled. Neither new oak nor small barrels are ever used at Pradeaux and the red wines are never fined nor filtered.”


Italy – Sicily

Feudo Montoni ‘Vigna del Masso’ Catarratto Sicilia IGT 2019 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 89 points
“White rose, citrus and yellow stone fruit aromas lead the nose on this vibrant white. The aromas carry on to the savory, tangy palate along with grapefruit and crushed thyme. -Kerin O’Keefe”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Arianna Occhipinti ‘Siccagno’ Nero d’Avola Sicilia 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Winemaker note
“Siccagno is my Nero d’Avola, born from those concentrated grapes which we precisely call Siccagna. Nero relates mostly Sicily, that it is wild, but it is also fresh and elegant and it is red fruit flavoured. That it has something noble and aristocratic, but it is also melancholic as a poet or a philosopher. That it is passionate, full of warmth and contrasts. The Nero which is the grape of our fathers and unites Sicily from corner to corner and it better gathers the spirit for centuries. A wine which I deeply love and since the first year it has always been with me.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Arianna Occhipinti Santa Margherita (SM) Vino di Contrada Sicilia Bianco IGT 2020 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, only 6 bottles available
Distributor note
“100% Grillo, high elevation vineyard, two day skin contact, concrete and large Austrian oak.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Occhipinti Vini Contrada PT, BB, FL 2019 3 PACK ($279.95) $249 special, 2 three-packs available
One bottle each of the PT, FL, and BB
Winery note “Pettineo: [PT] This historic contrada, a term used to refer a small district of the countryside, is located beyond Serra San Bartolo ridge; historically it has always produced very elegant wines thanks to a deep layer of marine sand (50-60 cm), with little presence of limestone rocks on the surface. Our Chiusa di Pettineo vines are nearly 60 years olds. Originally planted in a head trained or albarello system from which the previous owner then transformed into a trellised system, now with the vines climbing between the trellises into monumental heights. The wines of the Pettineo are usually fruit-driven with a more silky tannin yet possessing quite lively acidity.
“Fossa di Lupo: [FL] Another historical contrada and backbone of my work since 2004. The soils are sandy with shades that go from red to chestnut brown and with a substantial presence of limestone rocks on the surface. After the rst 40 cm of sand, we arrive at a layer of solid, hard limestone. The vines were planted in albarello: the typical training system with planting distances traditional of the Vittoria area. This contrada faces the Hyblaean Mountains at northeast; from here the wines typically originate as fruity but also austere, presenting great acidity. 
“Bombolieri: [BB] Here we are situated on a point with high limestone content in the soil, facing the Serra San Bartolo. Here the lands can vary from colours of deep chestnut to white, but the surface’s layer of sand is decisively lower: only 25 cm. Just below this thin layer you will nd solid limestone. In a part of this contrada you will nd more clay-limestone soil, visibly different with more of a presence of white on its surface. It’s here, in the Vigna Strada that this wine is born, oral and straightforward, with highly persistent acidity.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!


Italy – Piedmont

New stock – even lower price!
Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Derthona Timorasso Colli Tortonesi, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($69.95) Was $54.50, Now $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 94 point
“A few years ago, Walter Massa of Vigneti Massa almost single handedly brought the rare Timorasso grape back from extinction and now it is one of the hottest white wines made in the Piedmonte region. We are seeing many great producers jumping on the bandwagon, including the famed Vietti and this beautiful expression by the legendary Barolo maker Borgogno… Borgogno’s Timorasso from organic vines is lightly floral, medium bodied with a lovely texture and fine minerality. It delivers a polished and lively performance highlighting the grape’s best qualities with layers of peach, citrus and quince fruits, leesy notes, white flowers and an array of herb and spices along with a nice saline and wet stone element…This 2018… is very refined and has remarkable clarity with a delicate light pale color and subtle acidity, which is very rounded…”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Vietti ‘Perbacco’ Langhe Nebbiolo 2019 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery note
“Medium deep ruby color. Quite intense and generous fruity nose (red berries) along with floral and spicy notes, a hint of menthol and hard candy. On the pallet medium bodied, showing notable intensity while retaining an essentially mid-weight style. Strong, intense and quite powerful when young, evolving to a complex and elegant, very well balanced wine with ageing. The tannins are harmoniously integrated in the fruit structure of the wine. Long lasting aftertaste with good freshness.”

Luigi Baudana ‘Dragon’ Langhe Bianco 2021 750ML ($19.95) $17 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Winery note
“A pale and bright yellow enriched by dry perfumes of stone, flowers, and summery grass. Dry and slightly savory on the palate, its stinging freshness is well balanced by a warm taste. This is the promise of our Langhe Bianco. This is a field blend of white varieties mostly planted side by side vinified together in an extremely unusual way from Piemonte. Dragon varieties are as precious as delicate and the first we pick at Baudana every year. Fermentation lasts for an average of 7-15 days in vertical vats. The Dragon is then aged till the following spring in stainless-steel tanks, with patience and until the wine blossoms into a full harmony.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Marcarini La Serra, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($74.95) $49 special, 24 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points
“So much ash and dried-strawberry character. Burnt orange-peel undertones. Tar, too. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Lots of rose petals. This needs four or five years to open, but nicely integrated now. Try after 2024.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!


Germany – Mosel

Peter Lauer ‘Barrel X’ Saar Riesling, Mosel 2021 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36 bottles in stock now
Vom Boden note
“The most important category of Lauer wines we’ll call the “terroir” wines. These are the Rieslings that have made Lauer so famous. These wines eschew the whole Prädikat system (Kabinett, Spätlese, etc) completely. They ferment spontaneously with natural yeasts and thus they find their own balance. In most cases they have a bit more residual sugar than a purely dry wine, yet not nearly enough sugar to be considered sweet. Let’s call them dry-tasting to off dry. First, there is the appellation-level Barrel X. This is Lauer’s Platonic ideal of what a Saar Riesling should be. If we were in Burgundy this would be the equivalent of a Bourgogne Blanc. As an appellation-level wine, it is sourced from multiple vineyards in three different villages of the Saar. This is always a thrilling off-dry and a silly value.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Peter Lauer Saar Riesling Sekt Brut, Mosel 2018 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Mosel Fine Wines 91 points
“The 2018er Riesling Sekt Extra Brut is made from exclusively out of fruit from Ayl and aged for approx. 26 months on its lees before being disgorged in January 2021 (the disgorgement date is provided on the label). It offers a very fresh, green, and herbal nose of flintstone, iodine, gooseberry, lime, fennel, and dill. The wine reveals some bracing acidity underlined by a quite active mouse on the palate and leaves a very lively and beautifully herbal feel in the smoky and bone-dry finish. The aftertaste is intense and hugely persistent. Lovers of fresh and racy bubbly wines will fall in love with this beauty. 2022-2028.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!


Spain 

Paco & Lola Albarino, Rias Baixas 2020 750ML ($21.95) $18.50 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery note
“Made from free run must of selected grapes from our best vineyards. The vineyards are grown on sandy loam soils, granitic and slightly acidic. Sustainable production. Medium-high, citric notes (grapefruit and lime) and white flowers, acacia and orange blossom, with a sweet tropical background, intense aroma of lychees. Fresh, citric, intense and fruity mouth. Elegant, slightly bitter finish.”


Greece

Domaine Glinavos ‘Paleokerisio’ PGI Ioannina 2019 500ML ($19.95) $17.50 special, 4 500ml-bottles in stock now
Winery note
“Innovative and at the same time a traditional wine with a characteristic orange colour. A unique in its kind orange, semi-sparkling and semi-dry wine, which impresses with its distinctive and totally traditional vinification. It is produced from the indigenous white wine grape variety Debina with the addition of a small percentage of the red variety Vlahiko. It is a special type of wine, which revives the well-known traditional semi-sparkling wine of Ioannina, produced in the past by the locals. The little natural carbonate reveals the richness of flavours and aromas with a sweetness that blends in with all the other elements.”


Producer Spotlight: 

Jean Foillard


Foillard is one of the members of the “Gang of Four”, a group of young producers who catapulted Beaujolais onto the world stage with their incredible re-interpretation of traditional winemaking . Sourcing from organically farmed, old-vines with no intervention during fermentation and élevage these are among the most transparent expressions of Gamay Noir on the market. Irresistibly delicious on release, these are wines that reward the patient but won’t scold you for opening one now.  

Foillard Wines in stock now: 

Domaine Jean Foillard Morgon Les Charmes Eponym Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($57.95) $46 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points
“Glistening ruby. Powerful, mineral-accented cherry, black raspberry, violet and black cardamom scents pick up a spicy nuance as the wine opens up. Chewy and tightly wound on entry, offering juicy dark berry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors that deepen and slowly spread out through the back half. Shows firm tension and impressive energy on a very long, mineral-driven finish framed by polished, even tannins.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Aromas of sweet red berries, plums and smoke introduce the 2019 Morgon Eponym, a medium to full-bodied, supple and charming wine that’s fine boned and elegant, with powdery tannins and lively acids, concluding with a perfumed finish. This is a pretty rendition of this cuvée derived from climat Les Charmes.”

Domaine Jean Foillard Fleurie Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points
“Dark, bright-rimmed ruby. Incisive, spice-accented red and blue fruit and allspice scents show excellent clarity and pick up floral and smoky mineral flourishes with air. Juicy and alluringly sweet, offering vibrant black raspberry, boysenberry and five-spice powder flavors that deepen through the midpalate. Shows impressive energy and finishes seamless and impressively long, with discreet tannins and a strong echo of juicy red fruit.”

Domaine Jean Foillard Morgon Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 26 bottles in stock now
Kermit Lynch note
“This estate comprises nearly fourteen hectares. Foillard’s Morgons are deep, structured, and complex, with a velvety lushness that makes them irresistible when young despite their aging potential. Jean raises his wines in older barrels sourced from top estates in Burgundy, a logical decision for someone crafting Gamay in a Burgundian style. It is the passion and dedication of vignerons like this that have brought pride back to the crus of the Beaujolais.”

Domaine Jean Foillard Morgon Cuvee Corcelette Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points
“Saturated magenta. Expressive aromas of red and dark fruit preserves, star anise and potpourri pick up a smoky mineral topnote with air. Juicy and energetic in the mouth, offering concentrated raspberry and cherry liqueur, fruitcake and floral pastille flavors supported by a core of smoky minerality. At once powerful and lithe, finishing on a gently tannic note with superb, floral- and mineral-driven tenacity.”

Domaine Jean Foillard Morgon Cote du Py Beaujolais 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points
“Tasted at the domaine, Foillard’s 2017 Morgon Côte du Py is much the same as it showed from my cellar earlier this year. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of cherries, red berries, grilled meats, rose petals and orange rind, it’s medium to full-bodied, velvety and fleshy, with fine and powdery tannins, lively acids and a ripe core of fruit. It’s a touch richer and more sun-kissed than the stunning 2016 rendition, but this is a very fine Côte de Py from Foillard.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Vivid ruby. A highly complex bouquet evokes ripe red/blue fruits, candied flowers and exotic spices, and a smoky mineral nuance builds as the wine opens up. Stains the palate with appealingly sweet black raspberry and cherry flavors that become livelier and spicier on the back half. Conveys an impressive blend of power and finesse and lingers with superb persistence on the finish, which features sneaky tannins and lingering florality.”
Neal Martin-Vinous 94 points “We finished with a 2017 Morgon Côte du Py from Jean Foillard, which showed up the Kiwi Pinot. The color was iridescent, the bouquet pure Gamay in full flight: copious blueberries, cassis, crushed violets and blood oranges, all delivered with superb delineation and brightness. The palate harnessed the vivacity and unpretentiousness of Gamay with fine tannins, pure, tart black and red fruit and veins of blueberry. There was a gentle but insistent grip on a finish of supreme length. An outstanding Beaujolais wine, but frankly, I expected nothing less from this producer.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

Domaine Jean Foillard Morgon Cote du Py Beaujolais 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Domaine Jean Foillard Morgon Cote du Py Beaujolais 2019 1.5L ($119.95) $99 special, 5 magnums in stock now
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95 points
“Deep, shimmering violet. Powerful, spice-tinged red and blue fruit preserve and floral pastille aromas are complemented by suggestions of musky earth and licorice. Alluringly sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering sappy, mineral-driven black raspberry, cherry liqueur, lavender and five-spice powder flavors that expand through the back half. Finishes extremely long and nervy, with harmonious tannins building steadily and adding solid grip to reverberating cherry and floral notes.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94+ points “The most reserved wine in the range is the 2019 Morgon Côte du Py, a terrific effort that unwinds in the glass with notes of sweet berry fruit, peonies, loamy soil and sweet spices. Medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with ultra-fine tannins and lively acids, it’s sapid and mouthwatering. Stylistically, this sits somewhere between the richer, riper register of 2018 and 2017 and the fragrant classicism of 2016. As ever, it’s one of the most dependably delicious purchases to be made in the region.”

Shop our complete selection of 56 Beaujolais in stock now including picks from Clos de la Roilette, Daniel Bouland, and more!
 


Collector’s Corner:

Pol Roger

New Offer & Top Wines In Stock Now


As the story goes, Sir Winston Churchill had a lifelong taste for Champagne that started during his service in WW1. He is quoted with saying “Remember, gentlemen, it’s not just France we are fighting for, it’s Champagne,” when on the frontlines of Epernay. After the World Wars, Odette Pol Roger became personal friends with Sir Winston Churchill and they remained friends for decades until his death. He was reputed to be one of the largest buyers of Pol Roger in the world, drinking an average of two bottles of Vintage Pol Roger per day. 

His passing sparked the creation of the Sir Winston Churchill cuvee, meant to serve as their new Tête de Cuvee. In honor of its namesake the cuvee is made in the style that Churchill preferred: with at least 10 years of aging on the lees, a Grand Cru assemblage that is Pinot Noir dominant, and built to age. Judging from critical reception, this bottling is only getting better with age. This Tête de Cuvee is perfectly suited for  special gifts, cellaring or personal consumption if you’re feeling aristocratic. Don’t skip the vintage wine, either. 2013 is looking to be a glorious year in a throwback style from the long and cool growing season.

In Stock Now:

Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill Brut, Champagne 2006 750ML ($359.95) $319 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 98 points
“[Reviewed 2018] Editor’s Choice. This is the latest release of this legendary wine. A blend, although with a majority of Pinot Noir (Churchill’s preference), the wine is rich, just beginning to show wonderful signs of maturity. It still has intense fruit along with the taut mineral texture that will allow the wine to age further. It is a standout Champagne from this vintage. Drink now, although this Champagne will age for many years. -Roger Voss”
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “[Reviewed 2018] Made in the very best vintages, Pol Roger’s white-golden colored 2006 Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill offers a very clear, precise, ripe and complex bouquet with fruity and refreshingly chalky, nutty and brioche notes. Full-bodied and complex on the palate, the 2006 is supple, round and rich but also fine, elegant, fresh and well structured. It has a harmonious yet tight, persistent and very promising finish that puts this silky textured, Pinot-dominated cuvée (the exact blend is a closely guarded family secret) on the border of fatty richness. But the mousse gives so much freshness and finesse that everything seems lifted here. Though I have very limited experience with matured Champagnes from Pol Roger and namely Churchill, I suppose the 2006 will benefit a lot from further bottle aging. But don’t get me wrong: the wine is already gorgeous.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “[Reviewed 2017] This dances gracefully on the palate, with rich and expressive flavors of peach tart, raspberry sorbet, candied ginger and orange peel, and sleek acidity that leaves a mouthwatering impression on the satiny finish. Drink now through 2031. 600 cases imported. — AN”
James Suckling 95 points “[Reviewed 2017] Some reductive meaty notes of bacon fat and flint, with lemon cream and butter too, as well as a light forest berry edge and toasted hazelnuts. The palate has attractive lemon citrus cream flavor. Super pure, there’s power amongst the charm. This is a great ’06. Drink now.”

Pol Roger Vintage Brut, Champagne 2013 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 96 points
“Very much in the ripe Pol Roger style, this Champagne is just approaching maturity. With its balance of crisp minerality and richness, it is a great wine from a medium-quality vintage. Although the wine is ready to drink, its style says that it will age further and could be enjoyed when it has become more toasty from 2022. -Roger Voss”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “Pol Roger’s just-released 2013 Brut Vintage is a beautifully chiseled, incisive wine that will appeal immensely to purists. Unwinding in the glass with scents of citrus zest, white flowers, crushed chalk and hints of fresh sourdoughs, it’s medium to full-bodied, racy and precise, with a nicely concentrated and tightly wound core, tangy acids and an elegant pinpoint mousse. After the rich, muscular 2012 vintage, the 2013 represents quite a contrast; I’m not sure we’ll see its stylistic like again for some time, so readers with classically inclined palates will want to stock up—advice I’ll be following myself.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Arriving Friday

Pol Roger Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($64.95) $54.90 pre-arrival special
Decanter 93 points
“[Reviewed Oct 2021] Richly biscuity on the nose, with steamed rice, fresh pear and citrus blossom complexity. Creamy mousse dissolves into red apple peel, lemon and stone fruits, with a depth of honeyed biscuits. The Reserve NV from Pol Roger is a blend of base wines from at least three vintages. With 6 months of post-disgorgement ageing, the wine is ready to enjoy now. Drinking Window 2021 – 2026.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “[Reviewed 2021] The current release of Pol Roger’s NV Brut Réserve is quite dramatic, bursting with aromas of mandarin oil, honeycomb, elderflower, fresh bread and musky peach. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, it’s generous and textural, with a rich core of fruit, lively acids and a pillowy mousse.”

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