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Vinopolis Tuesday Newsletter 06-22-21

In This Newsletter:

The Smartest Buy in Tete de Cuvée?
Perrier Jouët’s Belle Epoque

New Rosé Arrival
Domaines Ott’s Romassan

More 2019s from Mosel Superstar
Markus Molitor

10 Smart Buys from Burgundy
All Under $100

Collector’s Corner
Bevan Cellars’ Superb Napa Reds

The Smartest Buy in Tete de Cuvée?

Perrier Jouët’s Belle Epoque

The beautiful (and beautifully packaged) Perrier Jouët Belle Epoque radiates elegance, with a fine mousse and delicate flavors and aromas. It’s always one of the smartest buys in Tete de Cuvée Champagnes. And at the national best price of $128, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better “special occasion” value.

In Stock Now:

Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque – Fleur de Champagne Millésime Brut, Champagne 2011 750ML ($179.95) $128 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Always a light, ethereal style of wine, this is also very fresh and still young. It will age with its taut minerality from the Chardonnay in the blend. A softer background will become toasty over the next few years. The vintage date on this bottle is 200 years after the foundation of this producer. Drink from 2021.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $136.99

Love Champagne? We have over 165 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Bérêche, Nicolas Maillart, Pierre Péters and more, on our web store now.

New Rosé Arrival

Domaines Ott’s Romassan

Domaines Ott is one of the two flagship producers of rosé in Provence and a true icon for top-tier, luxury rosé. Within European wine circles, they are considered to the finest producers of rosé out there—better even than Tempier. Here in the U.S., we tend to view things the other way around, but when you taste Ott’s top rosés, you understand the argument. Ott is an estate that’s focused on excellence above all else. They own multiple estates across Provence, all producing unique wines that are top of their class.

In Stock Now:

Domaines Ott Château Romassan Bandol Rosé, Provence 2020 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 93 points “Limpid orange. Powerful, mineral-accented citrus pith, red berry and succulent floral and herb scents, along with a spicy nuance. Chewy and sharply focused in the mouth, offering concentrated strawberry, bitter cherry, blood orange, honeysuckle and smoky mineral qualities and a deeper peach pit flourish. Chewy and densely packed yet lively as well, the mineral and floral notes carrying through a very long, precise finish.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Also in Stock Now:

Domaines Ott Côtes de Provence ‘By.Ott’ Rosé 2020 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Domaines Ott Côtes de Provence ‘By.Ott’ Rosé 2020 750ML ($299.95) $236 special (that’s only $19.67/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 90 points “Light orange-pink. Ripe pit fruits and red berries on the nose, along with a hint of smokiness. Juicy and open-knit, offering strawberry and nectarine flavors that show very good clarity and back-end cut. Finishes smooth and long, leaving a suggestion of pit fruits behind.”

Time for a rosé refresh? We have over 70 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including best-sellers like Ameztoi, Château Pradeaux, Clos Ste Magdeleine and more, on our web store now.

More 2019s from Mosel Superstar

Markus Molitor

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.

Most winemakers would pick a vineyard once or twice and vinify the 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. We already have a dazzling selection of Markus Molitor’s wines in stock, but are eagerly anticipating the arrival of many more of his 2019s this fall. Whether white capsule (dry), green capsule (off-dry), or gold capsule (fruity to nobly sweet), you can’t really go wrong with any of the numerous bottlings. So pick your favorite style and discover for yourself why we insist on carrying so many of these brilliant wines.

White Capsule – Dry

Pre-Arrivals ETA November:

Markus Molitor Alte Reben Riesling Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($39.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “Molitor’s 2019 Alte Reben Saar opens with a pure and concentrated flinty bouquet of crushed slate and lemon zest as well as floral aromas. Round, lush and with salty piquancy as well as fine and juicy fruit concentration that intermingles perfectly with the finessed acidity and mineral backbone, this is an excellent and highly stimulating picture-book Saar Riesling with a delicate grip of slate and tannins. Perhaps the finest Saar old-vines Riesling I have had from Molitor. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Bernkasteler Lay Riesling Auslese Trocken**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($64.95) $51.90 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95+ points “The lime-green-golden 2019 Bernkasteler Lay Auslese ** (White Capsule) is deep, intense and concentrated yet elegant and still precise and flinty on the nose. The attack on the palate is stunningly young and vital before the elegant and crystalline wine reveals its complexity and inner power. This is a tightly structured, very digestible and still edgy Auslese that needs another 5-6 years or so to settle and shine. This 2019 is enormously salty on the finish and highly promising. Bottled in September last year and tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Erdener Treppchen Riesling Spätlese Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($34.95) $29.50 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2019 Erdener Treppchen Spätlese (White Capsule) is pretty reduced and flinty on the stony, iron-scented nose. Round, refined and elegant on the palate, this is a generous, crystalline, enormously salty, piquant and even powerful dry Riesling with tropical fruit flavors and very fine tannins. Very impressive yet still too young to enjoy. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese Trocken**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95 points “A deep, coolish, flinty and complex nose opens the 2019 Graacher Domprobst Auslese ** (White Capsule). Full-bodied, crystalline, enormously salty and piquant on the palate, this is a rich and round yet dramatic, refined and linear Domprobst with fine tannins and a long, intense and aromatic finish. Tasted in May 2021.”

Markus Molitor Graacher Domprobst Riesling Kabinett Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($29.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2019 Graacher Domprobst Kabinett (White Capsule) is deep, elegant and flinty on the perfectly ripe and typically Graach-fruity nose with its lush and ripe stone-fruit aromas. Water matters in a dry year such as 2019, and the Domprobst has lots of it. Dense, piquant and mouth-filling on the palate, the wine reveals an edgy slate structure that will soften with bottle age. I recommend cellaring the wine for at least another year. The finish is vibrantly fresh and salty yet still tannic. 10.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Kinheimer Hubertuslay Riesling Auslese Trocken**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($64.95) $51.90 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95+ points “The 2018 Riesling Kinheimer Hubertuslay Auslese ** (White Capsule) is pure, precise and flinty on the nose that reveals intense and concentrated fruit aromas and refreshing phenolic notes that will oxidize with aeration during bottle aging. On the palate, this is a rich and intense, crystalline, vital and persistent Riesling with great expression and elegance. The finish is spectacularly long and fine. An impressive wine. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Spätlese Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($34.95) $29.50 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2019 Ockfener Bockstein Spätlese (White Capsule) opens with an intense, ripe and aromatic tropical fruit aroma intertwined with flinty slate aromas. On the palate, this is a full-bodied and mouth-filling, piquant and crunchy, finely tannic, sustainable and salty dry Riesling with grip and lush fruit on the long finish. Excellent. 11% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Saarburger Rausch Riesling Spätlese Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($34.95) $29.50 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2019 Saarburger Rausch Spätlese (White Capsule) is intense and crunchy-slatey on the piquant and characterful nose that reveals ripe fruit and stony/herbal notes. Salty, piquant and highly stimulating on the palate, this is a dense, perfectly ripe and juicy Riesling with salty-crystalline acidity and a salivating finish that also reveals delicate tannins. This is another excellent, terroir-driven Riesling with fully ripe and generous yet structured fruit. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese Trocken**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 96 points “he 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese ** (White Capsule) is deep, pure, fresh and flinty as well as floral on the dense and complex nose. Round, lush and elegant on the palate, this is a salty, piquant and textural Würzgarten with dramatic tension and grip. This is a gorgeous, highly potential dry Riesling with lingering salinity and serious tannin grip. I highly recommended cellaring this for 5-10 years. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($31.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Kabinett (White Capsule) is highly refined and almost floral in its precisely slatey and flinty finesse that integrates very fine Riesling aromas. Everything seems to be in a young style for this wine that is pure, structured and dry, with a lovely mix of tannins, crystalline slate acidity and lingering salinity. This is not really fragile like, say, a Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr; instead, it’s filigreed and has strong bones. Fine tannins structure the fresh and lemony yet rich finish. A serious terroir wine with just 10.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Spätlese Trocken, Mosel 2019 750ML ($34.95) $29.90 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93+ points “The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Spätlese (White Capsule) already shows on the nose its perfect ripeness and elegant richness in a highly refined and enormously flinty, even tannic manner. The palate is very elegant, lush and ripe yet most of all vibrantly fresh and salty-piquant, revealing a salivating, firmly structured and tannic finish. This is a Würzgarten to keep for at least 3-4 years before opening. Tasted in May 2021.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese Trocken**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 96 points “Molitor’s lemon-golden colored 2019 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (White Capsule) opens with a spectacular dense and intense tropical fruit aroma that becomes finer and finer and more detailed and slatey with air. This is a fascinating beauty in the making. Lively and frisky on the palate despite its richness and with a lemon flavor and firm and sustainably salty mineral grip for structure, this full-bodied WSU is a highly refined and elegant dry Auslese with an extremely stimulating finish. Although the 2019 already tastes very well, I wouldn’t drink it before it’s 20 or even 30 years old, simply because the wine will become even more complex.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Green Capsule – Off-Dry

Pre-Arrivals ETA November:

Markus Molitor Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese Feinherb***, Mosel 2019 750ML ($149.95) $125 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2019 Graacher Himmelreich Auslese *** (Green Capsule) opens enormously deep, intense and complex on the nose that immediately indicates the wine is in an exceptional class on its own. Only with lots of aeration does the wine become more and more pure and fresh and develop a flinty lemon note with the finest perfume. On the palate, this is a rich, round and complex, sweet, wide and mouth-filling, very generous, free and easy-flowing Himmelreich of exceptional finesse and beauty. The finish is so stimulating, salty, pure and crunchy in its slate character, whereas the crater dug by the piquancy is filled in by the perfectly ripe and healthy fruit with lush intensity. The 2019 Himmelreich Auslese *** is sensational and the finest I have ever tasted from Markus Molitor. Tasted from AP 1 20 in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett Feinherb, Mosel 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 94+ points “Molitor’s 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Kabinett (Green Capsule) opens pure and flinty on the deep and complex, very intense yet bright and fascinating, seductive and terroir-driven nose. Lush and round on the palate yet with salty-piquant and vibrantly fresh acidity, this is a structured, even somewhat tannic Kabinett to cellar for at least 2-3 more years. Very long and endlessly salty. Tasted in May 2021.”

Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese Feinherb***, Mosel 2019 750ML ($149.95) $125 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 99 points “The intensely golden-yellow colored 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese *** (Green Capsule) opens with a deep, enormously rich and concentrated but also precise, fresh and flinty bouquet of ripe, tropical fruits intertwined with lemon aromas and very fine notes of crushed slate and, only initially, more than just a hint of very fine oak (3,000-liter foudres). Full-bodied, rich and perfectly round on the palate yet also with incredible finesse and elegance for this weight category, this is a dense and concentrated, firmly structured, vital, salty-mineral and finely tannic Sonnenuhr with a spectacularly dense core and an endlessly long, intense and energetic as well as aromatic finish. This is a dramatic Riesling and another highlight of the 2019 vintage in all of Germany. It comes highly recommended and is definitely a wine to keep for at least 10-15 years, even though it already tastes very attractive. Stimulatingly salty on the finish. From 120-year-old vines on very fine slate soils. Tasted from AP 59 20 in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Gold Capsule – Sweet

Pre-Arrivals ETA November:

Markus Molitor Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95 points “The golden-yellow colored 2019 Graacher Domprobst Auslese ** (Golden Capsule) is intense yet very clear and fresh with lemon juice aromas and dark-toned notes of crushed flint stone. Lush and refined on the vivacious and remarkably finessed palate, this is a light, round and fleshy, textured and mouth-filling Domprobst with very fine tannins, delicate mineral acidity and lingering salinity. Promising and with stimulating, crystalline grip but still far too young. Tasted from AP 92 20 in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Kinheimer Hubertuslay Riesling Beerenauslese, Mosel 2019 375ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The white-golden colored 2019 Kinheimer Hubertuslay Beerenauslese offers a deep, intense and concentrated bouquet with ripe and flinty-scented raisin and lemon aromas. Lush and round on the refined and elegant palate, this is a sensual, mouth-filling yet delicate BA with vivacious yet fine acidity and a long and stimulating, salty and highly seductive finish. 6.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Kinheimer Rosenberg Riesling Auslese***, Mosel 2019 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 99 points “The intensely lemon colored 2019 Kinheimer Rosenberg Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) is pure and salty on the nose that reveals pretty unique flint stone aromas intertwined with perfectly ripe and precise Riesling berry aromas. Dense yet lush and highly refined on the palate, this is an enormously salty Auslese that is irresistible in its finesse and stimulating crystallinity. Absolutely gorgeous and salivating! Tasted in May 2021.”

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese ** (Golden Capsule) is another absolutely brilliant Riesling that opens incredibly pure and coolish with a perfume of crushed slate and lemon verbena notes on the dense, stony and herbal nose. Succulent yet refined and elegant on the superbly balanced and seamless palate, this is a generous yet refined Auslese with subtle yet sustainable mineral finesse and energy. Stimulatingly salty and crystalline on the airy finish. Tasted from AP 89 20 in May 2021.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Beerenauslese, Mosel 2019 375ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Beerenauslese is clear, fresh and very delicate on the subtle yet complex nose that reveals white tea aromas along with lemon-scented notes of crushed stones. Round and filigreed on the palate, this is a light and delicate, finessed yet intense and salty BA whose sweetness is well captured by mineral grip and tension. This is a really excellent, frisky and digestible BA for aperitifs, entrées and desserts. 6% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2019 750ML ($29.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 92 points “From the higher parts of the cru, the 2019 Ürziger Würzgarten Kabinett (Golden Capsule) is clear, bright, intense and fruity on the elegant, slatey nose. The palate is lush, round and aromatic as well as refined, and the sweetness is balanced by the delicate, vivid, crystalline acidity. The finish is stimulatingly salty. A lovely wine that I would keep for some years, though the 2019 already drinks very well. Tasted in May 2021.”

Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese**, Mosel 2019 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (Golden Capsule) exhibits a white-golden color along with a clear, bright, flinty and lemon-scented bouquet of ripe and healthy citrus fruits intertwined with finely crushed slate aromas. Mouth-filling, fresh and highly delicate on the palate, this is a finessed and stimulating Auslese with hidden intensity and complexity and currently firm phenolic grip with crystalline acidity and lingering salinity. Tasted from AP 27 20 in May 2021.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese, Mosel 2019 750ML ($599.95) $499 pre-arrival special
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese, Mosel 2019 375ML ($299.95) $249 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Trockenbeerenauslese is deep, intense and flinty on the nose that exhibits clear, ripe and concentrated fruit with very fine botrytis notes intertwined with aromas of crushed slate and candied lemon rind. Round and elegant on the seamless palate, this is a rich yet finessed and elegant, super tensioned and mineral TBA with electrifying acidity and a highly stimulating finish. There are not many TBAs around that are as digestible as this one, which is really extraordinary. 6.5% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021 (AP 29 20).”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Love Germany? We have over 350 different options (not a typo!) in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Dönnhoff and JJ Prüm, as well as much more from Molitor.

10 Smart Buys from Burgundy

All Under $100

In Stock Now:

“Pitch-perfect Gevrey-Chambertin”
Domaine Hubert Lignier Gevrey-Chambertin, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($119.95) $81.80 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “The Ligniers purchased the fruit for this wine, but they oversee the vineyard work from July onward, as well as the harvest itself. Produced from parcels in two lieu-dits—15-year-old vines in “Epointures” and 60-year-old vines in “Reniard”—this is pitch-perfect Gevrey-Chambertin: meaty and succulent, with classic Lignier poise and a long, mineral-drenched, driving finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

A cellar pick
Bruno Desauney Bissey Les Rouges, Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($119.95) $81.80 special, 7 bottles in stock now

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

“A Gevrey of finesse and refinement”
Domaine Pierre Gelin Clos de Meixvelle, Gevrey-Chambertin 2010 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 3 bottles in stock now

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Elegant & balanced
Domaine Faiveley Aux Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 6 bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 90-92 points “Exotic aromas of smoked duck, dark wild berries, baking chocolate and spices introduces the 2017 Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Chaignots, a medium to full-bodied wine with tangy acids, satiny structuring tannins and a deep core of sapid, pungently spicy fruit. It’s a definite success.”
Neal Martin – Vinous 90-92 points “The 2017 Nuits Saint-Georges Aux Chaignots 1er Cru has a more cohesive, deeper bouquet than the Les Damodes, a mixture of red and black fruit, crushed stone and chalk. The elegant palate is well balanced with supple tannin, a fine bead of acidity and a touch of orange sorbet enlivening the finish. Excellent.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

“Succulent fruit” without sacrificing soul
Jérôme Chézeaux Chaumes, Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Les Chaumes lies at the southern edge of Vosne-Romanée, immediately below the hallowed premier crus Aux Malconsorts and La Tache on a vein of limestone and marl. Chezeaux owns four-tenths of a hectare here, producing a wine that marries the exotic spice and succulent fruit of Vosne-Romanée with the mineral force of Nuits-Saint-Georges in ravishing fashion.”

Crisp & complex
Serafin Père & Fils Les Corbeaux, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2012 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Corbeaux comes from 0.45-hectares of vines planted in 1968 by Christian’s father adjacent to Mazis-Chambertin. It has a precocious bouquet compared to the Vieilles Vignes, with scents of mulberry, dark plum and luscious black fruit that are tightly controlled. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly grainy entry. This is showing the oak a little more than the Vieilles Vignes at the moment, but there is sufficient concentration to absorb that with time. The linear finish, crisp and taut, bodes well for the future.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $139.99

Generous & refreshing
Domaine Henri Gouges Les Pruliers, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Decanter 93 points “The age of the vines is quite diverse in this 1.8ha block, ranging from 20 to 80 years. It’s a comparatively forward red, especially for a Nuits from the south side of the village. Notes of summer berries and tobacco pouch mingle appealingly on the nose and palate with supporting acidity and scented oak, 20% new.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

A serious red that will reward patience
Vincent Girardin Corton Les Perrières Grand Cru, Cote de Beaune 2017 750ML ($135.95) $99 special, 11 bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 92 points “The most serious of these reds is the 2017 Corton-Perrières Grand Cru, a wine that unwinds in the glass with notes of red berries, cassis and spices. Medium to full-bodied, deep and nicely concentrated, with the most mid-palate volume of any wine in the range, this will reward a bit of bottle age.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $110.70

A classic Volnay expression
Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Carelle Sous La Chapelle, Volnay Premier Cru 2010 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Deep ruby color with light garnet hues. Finesse and elegance on the nose, with aromas of small red ripe fruits, exotic spices and violets, with a touch of minerality. The palate is full and round, with a generous finish. Delicate and velvety tannins, with nice acidity and length on the finish. The Volnay appellation is found mid-slope in the Côte de Beaune, with Pommard to the north and Meursault to the south. Although there are no Grands Crus here, Volnay’s 30 Premiers Crus are unmatched. Always appreciated for their finesse and beautiful bouquet, Volnays are often regarded as being feminine. The vines for this cuvée are on average 45 years old. This square shaped, “carré = Carelle”, vineyard is located just below the beautiful 16th century chapel of Volnay.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

A staff favorite
Pierrick Bouley Volnay Premier Cru Les Grands Champs, Côte de Beaune 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Fine Wine Review 90-94 points “10 hl/ha. Bouley owns the only part of the Grands Champs that is classified as premier cru. The nose is powerful with red fruits and some spiciness. The mouth is medium light with elegance, good length and spicy red and dark fruits. “

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love red Burgundy? We have over 200 different options from the Côte de Nuits and over 90 different options from the Côte de Beaune in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Armand Rousseau, Dujac, Fourrier and more, on our web store now.

Collector’s Corner

Bevan Cellars’ Superb Napa Reds

Bevan Cellars has quickly emerged as one of the top handful of Napa Cabernet producers in a crowded marketplace. Since their founding in 2005 as the personal project of star winemaker Russell Bevan, they’ve earned multiple 100-point scores for their bold, silky style.

These are intense expressions of Cabernet (and a few impressive Cabernet-based blends) that manage to be delicious and texturally impressive now. It’s exceptionally rare to find wines of this quality which are easy to drink right away, which is part of the reason Bevan Cellars has a long waiting list to buy their wines direct.

As a result, it’s rare to see these wines in the retail world but we’ve got our hands on some, available in limited quantities. If you’re looking for a set of top-rated Napa Cabernet to drink tomorrow or age for a decade, it’s hard to do better than Bevan’s wines.

In Stock Now:

Bevan Cellars Tench Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville 2016 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 97+ points “The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is very deep purple-black in color with an earthy, meaty, broody nose with notes of mocha over baked plums and crème de cassis plus wafts of spice box and mincemeat. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated, rich and earthy with great vibrancy on the finish. 839 cases produced.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “From a steep hillside in Oakville, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard offers a more savory, masculine, layered style as well as a huge nose of red and black fruits, dried herbs, chocolate, and earth. It hits the palate with a full-bodied, mouthfilling style that carries plenty of tannins, a deep, concentrated mid-palate, and a great finish. I like it today, yet it’s going to continue drinking brilliantly for two decades.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Bevan Cellars Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District 2015 750ML ($279.95) $199 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine Advocate 98 points “Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Vixen Block Wildfoote Vineyard offers up a very serious nose of cassis, blackberry pie and blueberry compote with hints of dried lavender, underbrush, Chinese five spice and cigar box, plus a waft of dark chocolate. Full-bodied and densely packed with black fruit preserves and earthy layers, it has a firm frame of finely grained tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with epically long exotic spice nuances. Only 125 cases were produced.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $215.99

Bevan Cellars Tench Vineyard ‘EE – Double E’ Red, Oakville 2016 750ML ($249.9) $189 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 99+ points “Some of the top wines from this spectacular vintage are starting to close down, including this impressive beauty. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Proprietary Red EE Tench Vineyard is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Just a little more subdued than when I last tasted it, the nose features gorgeous blueberry pie, molten chocolate, plum preserves and mulberries notions with hints of camphor, cloves, earth and cigar box. Full-bodied and voluptuously endowed, with decadently velvet-textured tannins, the acid sits perfectly balanced in the background, finishing with epic length and so many layers. The way this is headed, I would not be surprised if it emerges in a few years hitting glorious, three-digit perfection. 1,403 cases were made.”

Love California Cabernet? We have over 30 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Diamond Creek, Dominus, Mount Eden and more, on our web store now.

Vinopolis is an independent wine shop in Portland that opened in 2004. Our goal has always been to offer the finest, broadest, and largest selection of wines at the best prices to our customers in Portland, in Oregon, across the West Coast, and throughout the United States.

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Vinopolpick Monday Bonus 6-21-21

In Today’s Newsletter:

Beat the Heat!
Cider Sale

New Bordeaux Arrival
Pontet-Canet’s High-Scoring 2015

Subscriber Special
Sub-$40 Magnums from Castello di Ama

Smith Haut Lafitte’s Masterful 2016
Arriving in July

Spotlight on Germany
JJ Prüm & Müller-Catoir

Collector’s Corner
Dominus’ Perfect (100-Point) 2018

Beat the Heat!

Cider Sale

Did you know that we have an excellent selection of cider, including options from Italy, Spain, and some of the United States’ most celebrated producers? Check out all of our thirst-quenching options below, or head straight to our web store. Stock up to take advantage of our limited time sales offer!

Buy Any 6-11 Bottles of Cider, save 5%
Buy Any 12+ Bottles of Cider, save 10%
Discount Will Not Display Online/In Cart
We Will Apply Discount Manually Before Finalizing Your Order
Sale Ends Sunday, June 27 at 6PM PDT

In-store pickup only
Shipping unavailable for ciders

Italy

In Stock Now:

Maley ‘Jorasses’ Methode Traditionnelle Cidre, Aosta Valley NV 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “Maley Classic Method is made by the same technique used in the wine world, from over 300 years in Champagne region. The Cider process of fermentation are the same: obtained a basic cider we proceed to take the spume to make the second fermentation in bottle and a short building by the yeast (6 months). With a rich and persistent perlage, our cider has a beautiful flaxen colour with pale green nuances. At the sense of smell it reflects the Raventze apple, with notes of white flowers. [On the palate,] it appears rich and dry with a great minerality and flavour, low alcoholic rate (7,5% vol) highlights a great cleanliness that encourage greatly to drink.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Maley ‘Matterhorn’ Cidre, Aosta Valley NV 750ML ($21.95) $17.50 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Importer note “The name “Maley” comes from both an old Valdostano name for apple (Malus in Latin) and one of the pre-20th century names for Mont Blanc (Mont Malais). Maley is Gianluca’s revival of an old Valdostano tradition of cider-making that Mussolini quashed in the 1930s as part of his effort to eliminate anything not sufficiently “Italian” — cider being in the fascists’ view a French affectation. Maley is the only cider producer in Italy making artisanal cider with heirloom apples. (There are a few siderie in Alto Adige, but they are not using interesting apples and the results are ho-hum). Abandoned Alpine orchards planted upwards of 4000 feet, half of them in the French Alps surrounding Chamonix and half in nearly-deserted Alpine towns in the Italian Valle d’Aosta. No chemicals. Some of these sleepy apple trees haven’t been picked in decades.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Maley Cidre du Saint Bernard, Aosta Valley NV 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “With the cider Maley, Aosta Valley reproposes an old drink which, for centuries, has been present on the tables of so many alpine villages. This innovative project is born from the passion for the effervescence in all its forms, from the love for the alpine scenaries, from the respect for the biodiversity cared by generations of gardeners and farmers from the Alps.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Spain

In Stock Now:

El Gaiteiro ‘Pomarina’ Sidra Brut, Asturias NV 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles in stock now

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

United States

In Stock Now:

Roshambo ArtFarm ‘Art + Science’ Quince Cider, Oregon NV 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Winery note “[note on the 2017 vintage] 100% Quince- 50% of it was keeved in concrete and then aged and fermented in barrel for 10 months. Quince was an old homestead standby that was originally planted as a staple for jellies as it is naturally high in pectin. Although quince is in a renaissance, many older trees have not survived as they were no longer deemed useful. Since we forage for the fruit and it is rare, quantities are limited. This cider is as weird as the fruit is, floral and fruity yet dry and interesting. Wild yeast, bottle fermented, sugar added.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Dragon’s Head Crabapple Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($17.95) $14.50 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “At Dragon’s Head Cider, we have a history of working with crabapples, coaxing these high acid, boldly flavored fruits into lovely fermented beverages. The Columbia Crabapple is our latest foray into the world of producing cider with crabapples, and it makes a bold statement. Dragon’s Head is known for producing dry ciders, and this cider is sweeter than any other we have produced before. The sweetness is countered by the tartness of the crabapple, producing a flavorful delight to the palate. While this cider drinks nicely on its own, we also find ourselves particularly inspired by it to create new and lovely cider cocktails. Alcohol 6.70%. Appearance – Clear, pale straw. Aroma – Rose, orange blossom, lemon rind. Taste – Bold sweet/tart contrasting flavors, lychee, kumquat. Mouthfeel – Light/medium body, lingering finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Dragon’s Head Heritage Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($19.95) $17 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “Our heritage cider is crafted from a blend of more than 20 traditional English and French cider apple varieties grown in our orchard on Vashon Island, WA. These time-honored apples create a richness of flavor and character to cider that can’t be achieved with ordinary culinary apples. Alcohol 7.30%.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Dragons Head Kingston Black Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($21.95) $19.90 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “Kingston Black apples are often considered the epitome of cider apples. They produce a cider rich in flavor, slightly bitter, and medium bodied. Kingston Black takes its name from the town of Kingston near Taunton in Somerset, England–the heart of cider in the UK. It is thought to have been originally identified in the 19th century. This is a limited bottling. Appearance – Golden color, slight haze. Aroma – Dried apricot, clover, resinous cedar. Taste – Dried apple, clementine, hints of honey, slightly bitter. Mouthfeel – Medium body, lingering astringent finish; lightly effervescent.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Dragon’s Head Perry Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “A 100% pear beverage, hand crafted with care in the traditional me´thode champenoise. Using fruit harvested in 2016, this perry was bottled for secondary fermentation in June 2018, and then disgorged in January 2019, more than two years after the fruit was harvested. Delicate and refined, Sparkling Perry is perfect for a celebration. Alcohol 7.50%.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Dragon’s Head Russet Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($19.95) $17 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “Our Russet Cider is a blend of Russet apples, all grown here on Vashon. Russets are a category of apple that appear with a certain characteristic russeted skin (like a russet potato). They tend to be aromatic, create richly flavored juice, and have high levels of fermentable sugars. The Russets in the blend are: Roxbury Russet, Golden Russet, Ashmead’s Kernel, Egremont Russet, and Ribston Pippin. It’s a complex, aromatic, bold, semi-dry cider with hints of dried orange peel with a bright lingering finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Dragon’s Head Wild Fermented Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($17.95) $14.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Cidery note “This is the Dragon’s Head Cider version of a farmhouse cider. Rather than carefully selecting a yeast strain for the fermentation, we allowed the wild yeast present on the skin of the apples to ferment the cider. It’s a bit of a fun gamble, but one we believe is worth taking. Alcohol 6.90%. Appearance – hazy, straw color, some sediment may be present. Aroma – pineapple, green tea, apple blossom. Taste – lemon and young pineapple flavors are followed by mild spice and lingering grapefruit notes. Mouthfeel – medium body with mild astringency; lightly effervescent.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Dragon’s Head Winter Cider, Washington NV 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Distributor note “An intense apple cider aged in bourbon barrels.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Eden Specialty Ciders Brut Nature Cider, Vermont NV 750ML ($19.95) $12.50 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Eden Specialty Ciders Brut Nature Cider, Vermont NV 375ML ($9.95) $6.50 special, 36+ half-bottles in stock now
Cidery note “PROFILE: Bubbly, very dry, balanced flavors. APPLE VARIETIES: Kingston Black • Roxbury Russet • Esopus Spitzenburg • McIntosh • Dabinett • Yarlington Mill • Calville Blanc • Hudson’s Golden Gem • Orleans Reinette • Empire • Black Oxford • Blue Pearmain • Rhode Island Greening • Baldwin. GROWN BY: Scott Farm, Poverty Lane Orchards, Sunrise Orchards, Eden Orchards. METHOD: Champagne style – secondary fermentation, rested on lees at least 18 months, hand-disgorged, naturally sparkling and clean. TASTING NOTES: dried apples, biscuit, citrus, green hay. PAIRING SUGGESTIONS: Extremely versatile dinner cider, goes well with everything from oysters to steak-frites. Gluten free, vegan friendly.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Eden Specialty Ciders Imperial 11 Rosé Cider, Vermont NV 750ML ($17.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Cidery note “PROFILE: Superbly juicy without being sweet, just off-dry and gently fizzy, with bright acidity and chewy tannic structure. APPLE VARIETIES: Esopus Spitzenberg, Calville Blanc, Hudson’s Golden Gem, Roxbury Russet, Blue Pearmain, Baldwin, Mcintosh, Empire, Ashmead’s Kernel, Black Oxford, Reine de Reinette, Orleans Reinette. GROWN BY: Scott Farms, Sunrise Orchards, Yates Family Orchard and Poverty Lane Orchard. METHOD: Naturally cold-concentrated before fermentation, infused with red currant and blended with a touch of ice cider. Filtered and carbonated. TASTING NOTES: Roses, strawberry, watermelon, citrus, slate. Gluten free, vegan friendly.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

New Bordeaux Arrival

Pontet-Canet’s High-Scoring 2015

Known for producing wines of impressive concertation and structure, balanced by freshness that has become all too rare in Bordeaux, Château Pontet-Canet makes some of the finest wines coming out of Paulliac today. A fifth growth according to the 1855 classification, the property is not lacking in history. However, unlike many of its classified peers, its best years are not behind it.

This fate was not preordained. The property was in near disrepair when the Tesseron family purchased it in 1975. The vineyards were slowly replanted and conditions in the cellar incrementally improved until the 1990s when Alfred Tesseron took over management of the estate. The improvements have been meteoric ever since, and many consider Château Pontet-Canet to be on par with many of the region’s first and second growths today. But thanks to their clearly outdated classification (a great deal has changed in 166 years!) their 98-point 2015 can still be yours for less than $150.

In Stock Now:

Château Pontet-Canet, Pauillac 2015 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 12 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 98 points “So much floral and dark-fruit character with almonds and walnut shell. Full body and ultra-fine tannins. Powerful. Classic style with a harmony and energy. Goes on for minutes. A superb wine with great fruit. Real Bordeaux.”
Vinous 97+ points “Proprietor Alfred Tesseron and winemaker Jean-Michel Comme produced an absolutely stellar Pontet-Canet in 2015. Sumptuous, racy and totally inviting, the 2015 is all class. Super-ripe dark cherry, plum, spice and exotic floral notes build as the 2015 shows off its alluring personality. Even with all of its raciness, the 2015 speaks with authority and power. Fine tannins extend the persistent, highly nuanced finish.”

Love red Bordeaux? We have 35 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Mouton Rothschild, Cos d’Estournel, Château Canon and more, on our web store now.

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Order Online / By Phone / By Email

Subscriber Special

Sub-$40 Magnums from Castello di Ama

Castello di Ama has emerged as one of the truly special estates of Chianti. Open to new ideas, always with quality in mind, Castello di Ama makes rich, textural wines that rival the region’s most sought-after. Because the only thing better than a bottle of delicious Tuscan wine is a magnum of delicious Tuscan wine, we’ve slashed our prices on two classics.

Castello di Ama’s 2015 Chianti Classico is an archetypal (tangy red fruit with herbal, floral, and earthy nuance) food-friendly Italian red, perfect for your next dinner party. While the Sangiovese-dominant Rosato is a crowd-pleaser that will undoubtedly be the first wine to disappear at your next outdoor gathering.

In Stock Now & Priced to Move:

Castello di Ama ‘Castello di Ama’, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2015 1.5L ($69.95) Was $49 Now $39, 24+ magnums in stock now
James Suckling 92 points “So much sweet tobacco and cherry character here with hints of smoked meat. Medium body, fine tannins and a bright and fruity finish. Acid tension give this definition. Tangy. Drink now.”
Wine Spectator 90 points “The raspberry and cherry flavors are immediate in this elegant, balanced red, followed by accents of earth and spice. Not excessively long, but well-proportioned. Drink now through 2022. 900 cases imported.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Castello di Ama ‘Purple Rosato’ Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2017 1.5L ($69.95) Was $49 Now $39, 9 magnums in stock now
Ian D’agata – Vinous 90 points “Luminous red-pink. Fresh aromas of strawberry and flowers, then ripe and sweet with similar flavors to the aromas that show very good acid cut. This actually leaves a sweet impression on the long suave finish, but has so much acidity it seems less sweet than it is. Lovely. Winemaker Marco Pallanti has changed the winemaking so as to macerate the must on the skins for twelve hours and then ages the wine in used (one year) barriques to round it. A blend of mostly Sangiovese with a little Merlot.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Also in Stock Now:

Castello di Ama Vigneto La Casuccia, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2016 750ML ($219.95) $179 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is rich, sensual and inviting, as it so often is. The addition of Merlot to Sangiovese yields a Chianti Classico built on textural resonance, with silky tannins, soft curves and tons of sheer allure. The 2016 won’t be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is unquestionably a great wine in the making. Succulent dark cherry, red plum, menthol, licorice, cloves and new oak infuse the creamy, voluptuous finish.”
Kerin O’keefe – Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Mature black-skinned berry, rose, tilled soil and a balsamic whiff of eucalyptus shape the nose. The bright, elegant palate has energy, tension and depth, delivering ripe wild cherry, red plum, licorice and crushed botanical herb. Taut, fine-grained tannins lend polished support while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. A gorgeous wine. Drink through 2031.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Castello di Ama L’Apparita Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($289.95) $249 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 100 points “The 2016 L’Apparita, 100% Merlot, is a breathtaking, riveting wine that captures all the potential of the vintage. In this vintage, L’Apparita is especially silky and refined. Layered, perfumed and wonderfully nuanced, L’Apparita is simply epic. Lavender, mint, sage, spice, new leather and cloves develop with time, but more than anything else, L’Apparita is wonderfully complete and magnificently beautiful.”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2016 L’Apparita is a standout wine. A true symbol of the vintage, the wine shows the classic lines and extreme precision we can expect from 2016, with the plump, ripe generosity of the Merlot grape (when farmed in the right hands of course). The wine is profound, rich and beautifully concentrated with power but no residual heaviness. I went back to this sample a few times in the 12 hours after I popped the cork, and the wine was more beautiful each time. It offers a profound sense of beauty, harmony and Merlot purity now, and it should evolve slowly and softly in the coming years.”

Wine Enthusiast Top 100 in 2018
Castello di Ama ‘San Lorenzo’, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2013 1.5L ($119.95) $99 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Kerin O’keefe – Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Fragrant and refined, this radiant wine opens with scents of violet, red berry, baking spice and a whiff of plum. The chiseled palate delivers succulent wild cherry, white pepper, cinnamon and star anise alongside firm, refined tannins. It boasts a long licorice finish while bright acidity lends balance. It’s already delicious but hold for even more complexity. Drink 2020–2033.”
James Suckling 95 points “Tight and super silky with a gorgeous density and precision that gives great polish to the tannins. Makes them almost dusty. Lots of subtle dark berry, mineral and spice. Drink or hold.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Love Tuscany? We have over 165 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Castell’in Villa, Fèlsina, Fontodi and more, on our web store now.

Smith Haut Lafitte’s Masterful 2016

Arriving in July

The product of one of Bordeaux’s finest recent vintages (probably only eclipsed by 2010 during the previous decade), Smith Haut Lafitte’s 2016 Pessac-Léognan Rouge is everything we look for in high-end Bordeaux. It’s complex, yet approachable. It’s powerful, yet elegant. And it has all the hallmarks of a wine that’ll age beautifully. But don’t take it from us, Wine Enthusiast named it a ‘Cellar Selection’. So hide a few bottles of this masterpiece away, you’ll thank yourself in 10 years.

Pre-Arrival ETA July:

Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Pessac-Léognan 2016 750ML ($149.95) $138 pre-arrival special
Lisa Perrotti-Brown – Wine Advocate 98 points “Composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot and matured in 60% new oak for 18 months, the 2016 Smith Haut Lafitte has a very deep garnet-purple color, opening with sensuous scents of warm black cherries, blackberry pie, star anise and fragrant lilacs with hints of chocolate box, cigar box and pencil lead plus wafts of truffles and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, rich and seductive, it completely fills the palate with perfumed black berry preserves and superbly plush tannins, finishing epically long and beautifully layered.”
James Molesworth – Wine Spectator 97 points “Quite ripe, with lush waves of cassis, cherry preserve and raspberry puree flavors gliding through in no hurry, but maintaining definition and cut along the way as bramble, tar and melted licorice snap notes slowly emerge throughout. The finish features an intense echo of pastis and sweet tobacco, showing serious latent grip. Best from 2023 through 2038. 8,333 cases made.”
Roger Voss – Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. This hugely dense wine is complex and full of juicy, succulent, smoky Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins are at the service of the fruits. The wine still has a long way to go before maturity. Don’t think about drinking it before 2025.”

Spotlight on Germany

JJ Prüm & Müller-Catoir

JJ Prüm

Manfred and Katarina Prüm make some of the finest and most sought after wines of the middle-Mosel. The wines are high-wire acts of tension between fruit and intense minerality and display their terroir in the most expressive way. Part of this is that their parcels have lots of old, ungrafted vines, and part of it is spontaneous fermentation and whatever magic the Prüm family uses in the cellar. No matter what, these are always some of the finest and longest lived wines in Germany.

Highlights, in Stock Now:

Joh. Jos. Prüm Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Mosel 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 97 points “What a fantastic bouquet! The 2016 Graacher Himmelreich Auslese Gold Capsule is super deep, intense and precise on the nose where flinty/stony notes and very fine (and slightly spicy) raisin and grapefruit aromas are displayed. Rich, lush and super sexy on the palate, with highly delicate but intense and persistent fruit and very fine salinity, this is a gorgeous Auslese from the winner of the 2016 vintage chez Prüm: Graacher Himmelreich. This gold-capsuled Auslese (AP 10 17) is rich, finessed and almost weightless in its intensity. The salty and piquant acidity is alive and kicking. You can hardly produce a better Auslese in this delicate and filigreed style. 8% alcohol.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Joh. Jos. Prüm Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese, Mosel 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2016 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese (AP 08 17) is discreet and smoky on the deep, well-defined nose. Juicy-piquant and salty on the well-structured and refreshingly mineral palate, the Himmelreich is tight and expressive, with the sweetness superbly balanced by the spicy, grippy phenols/minerals. This is a really complex Spätlese that is highly stimulating today and will still be so in 20 or 30 years.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Mosel 2015 750ML ($169.95) $149 special, 16 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 97 points “The most exotic and succulent of the 2015 Auslese Gold Caps from J.J., but also blessed with dazzling finesse and brilliance that you rarely encounter in sweet wines of any kind. What a finish! Best from 2020 and almost limitless aging potential. “
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2015 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese Gold Capsule (AP 20) is still pretty reductive and flinty on the nose and needs a lot of aeration. Sweet and concentrated, with a fine botrytis and grapefruit flavor, this Riesling has tight structure, mouth-watering fruit and good acidity. There is also an endless flow of salts and stones. This is a very promising Auslese, whose structure and mineral expression give the wine an almost dry taste. This is great Riesling to be served no earlier than 2027.”
Mosel Fine Wines 96 points “This delivers a stunning nose of infused pear, slate and white flowers which give way to coconut and pineapple. A deliciously exotic side runs through the wine on the palate. This, combined with zesty acidity, gives the wine great freshness, vibrancy and finesse. The finish is all about whipped cream, pear puree and candied grapefruit. What a beauty! 2030-2055”

Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Mosel 2016 750ML ($129.95) $109 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2016 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese (Gold Capsule) is clear, fine and subtle yet concentrated, with vegetal and ripe fruit aromas. Rich, round and piquant, this is an intense and densely woven Auslese (AP 14 17) with a long, tensioned and refreshing mineral finish that lifts the sweet fruit. Gorgeous but made for another decade.”
Stuart Pigott – jamessuckling 96 points “Super elegant and filigree with a delicacy that you don’t find in many other high-end white wines regardless of grape variety and region of origin. A very long and clean finish. Drink or hold.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $119.99

Joh. Jos. Prüm Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese, Mosel 2016 750ML ($41.95) $33 special, 36 bottles in stock now
David Schildknecht – Vinous 93 points “Fresh apple garlanded in honeysuckle and heliotrope sets the tone for a generously juicy, subtly creamy palate seductively loaded with inner-mouth floral perfume and leading to an inhalative, delicate but seriously sustained finish vividly underlain with wet stone and tinged with bittersweet, smoky nut oils and mouthwatering salinity.”
Stuart Pigott – jamessuckling 93 points “There are delicate spices and very attractive succulence to this Spätlese. The acidity is very much in the background until the finish lifts off. Drink or hold.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Müller-Catoir

From grand and aristocratic Riesling, to wild and exciting Scheurebe, to arguably the best Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder) we sell, Müller-Catoir’s wines are top-class in every category. Hailing from Pfalz, a region less famous than the Mosel but no less exciting, Müller-Catoir was focused on dry wines long before it was fashionable in Germany. Müller-Catoir owns some of the greatest vineyards in the region and has a special touch with them, and the results are some of the best values in the world for breathtakingly mineral-driven wines.

Riesling Highlights, in Stock Now:

Müller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten ‘Im Breumel’ Riesling Grosses Gewächs, Pfalz 2017 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 98 points “Stand back for the arrival of a giant! Super-fresh nectarine, vanilla and Thai-basil aromas that don’t leave you in any doubt that this is a very remarkable dry riesling. Then the tidal wave of minerality comes through at the finish and sweeps everything away. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Müller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten Riesling Spätlese, Pfalz 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 29 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott – jamessuckling 95 points “Stunning nectarine, peach and papaya character, together with lovely succulence and enormous vitality, make this a breathtaking sweet Spätlese with a finish that’s straight as a laser beam and super-clean. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Müller-Catoir Gimmeldingen Riesling, Pfalz 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott – jamessuckling 93 points “Ripe white and yellow peaches and just enough acidity to lift the medium-full body and give the long finish some real drive. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Scheurebe Highlights, in Stock Now:

Müller-Catoir Haardt Scheurebe, Pfalz 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott – jamessuckling 93 points “The whiff of smoke gives the cassis nose of this wine an extra dimension. Concentrated and racy with a dangerous amount of energy. So juicy and vibrant with a long and very clean finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”

Müller-Catoir Haardter Mandelring Scheurebe Trocken, Pfalz 2017 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott – jamessuckling 95 points “Why drink a dry white called scheurebe? Here’s the answer. An enormously complex nose of grapefruit, cassis and pineapple, then breathtaking purity and elegance on the palate and a totally uplifting and super-long finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Weissburgunder, Arriving in July:

Müller-Catoir Haardt Weissburgunder Trocken, Pfalz 2018 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Winery Note “This versatile accompaniment to many types of food has a delicate, lively bouquet of ripe apple and pear topped by a cool minerality, elegant body and full finish.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Müller-Catoir Haardter Herrenletten Weissburgunder, Pfalz 2018 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Stephen Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 92 points “Entirely fermented in oak (500-liter barrels), the 2018 Weissburgunder Herrenletten “VDP. Erste Lage” is intense and fruity on the bright and elegant yet deep nose that displays some ginger and hazelnut blossom notes. Intense and round on the palate, this is a dense, structured and still extremely young Pinot Blanc with lush fruit, good freshness and mineral grip. Very elegant, persistently salty and very long and promising. Tasted in Haardt, December 2019.”
Winery Note “Characters need time. Like his partner, the Grauburgunder from the Herrenletten, this Weissburgunder speaks to you only at the second glass. Tropical fruits of ripe pineapple and banana. Fresh walnuts and a touch of marzipan. Full and round in taste. Austere and herbal with a very long finish. A powerful Weissburgunder that goes well with veal, poulards or scallops that are served with a sauce refined with cream, Weissburgunder and herbs.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Love Germany? We have over 350 different options (not a typo!) in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Dönnhoff and Molitor, as well as more from JJ Prüm and Müller-Catoir.

Collector’s Corner

Dominus’ Perfect (100-Point) 2018

Dominus was founded by Christian Moueix, proprietor of the legendary Château Petrus in Pomerol and his vision has shaped Dominus into the force that it’s become. Despite its French heritage, the wine is definitely California in tone and style, combining waves of rich fruit and beautiful aromatics with enough tannin to ground the wine. We recently received our allocation of the 2018—the product of a near-perfect growing season in Napa.

There’s a consensus brewing that this is one of the greatest editions of Dominus yet, and Jeb Dunnuck has awarded it a perfect 100-point score. As with the previous several vintages, we don’t expect these iconic bottles to last long, so California enthusiasts should take note. We also have six magnums available, should you be looking for cellar-centerpiece.

In Stock Now:

Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2018 750ML ($349.95) $299 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2018 1.5L ($749.95) $649 special, 6 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The flagship 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot brought up in 40% new French oak. With an essence of Cabernet-like character in its darker currants, green tobacco, cedar, graphite, and floral aromas and flavors, this gorgeous wine is full-bodied and has bright yet integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s just gorgeously put together and a magical, flawless wine. It’s going to take a decade to hit maturity but will evolve for 40-50 years in cold cellars. It is as good as it gets in classic, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon!”
Lisa Perrotti-Brown – Wine Advocate 99+ points “Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Dominus slowly emerges from the glass with profound notes of blackcurrant cordial, ripe black plums, boysenberries and Black Forest cake with hints of violets, star anise, cracked black pepper, raspberry leaves and pencil lead, plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers impactful black fruit layers, creating a beguiling sense of richness that is beautifully countered by invigorating freshness and great poise, framed by super ripe, plush tannins and beautiful tension, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note and, finally, lots of mineral sparks. For all that it is at the moment, one cannot help but feel that this 2018 is holding something back. Give it a good five years in bottle, at least, and then get set for what I suspect will be a mind-blowing transformation over the next 30 years+.”

Love California Cabernet? We have over 30 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Bevan Cellars, Diamond Creek, Mount Eden and more, on our web store now.

Vinopolpick Mid-Week 6-16-21

In This Newsletter:

Chablis’ Greatest Exponent?
Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin

Caparzo Brunello Subscriber Special
Ends Thursday

Recent German Arrivals
Schätzel & Fritz Haag

Volpaia’s Perennial Tuscan Favorites
Including a Sub-$13/Bottle Case Special

Staff Recommended Burgundy
All $65 – $80

New Wine Spectator Review
Evening Land’s 2018 Chardonnay

Trending Champagne
Including a Steal on Charles Heidsieck’s BdB

Chablis’ Greatest Exponent?

Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin

“People often cite Domaines Raveneau and Vincent Dauvissat as the two greatest exponents of Chablis, however, I would like to add a third – Domaine Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin. Over the last five or six years, Benoît Droin has really ratcheted up the quality. I cannot exaggerate how often Droin’s wines end up the best of the flight during the annual “Burgfest” blind tastings. Again and again, they shine against stiff competition. It is time to accept that Droin is now one of the leading producers in Chablis.” –Neal Martin, Vinous Media

In Stock Now:

Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin Chablis, Burgundy 2017 750ML ($31.95) $26 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 89 points “The 2017 Chablis Villages is performing well from bottle, revealing pretty aromas of citrus fruit, white flowers and peaches. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, elegantly textural and vibrant, with good flesh at the core and a precise finish.”
Stephen Tanzer 89 points “Pale straw-yellow color. Fresh but restrained scents of soft citrus fruits and oyster shell minerality. Then round and sweet in the mouth, but with surprising sappiness and lemony lift. This can be enjoyed anytime.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $37.99

Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin Valmur, Chablis Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2015 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru comes across a little oaky on the nose, but the fruit handles it well. The bouquet is detailed and focused, with hints of dried honey and nutmeg developing in the glass. The palate displays good balance, a fine line of acidity and a smooth, almost creamy texture; hints of almond and white chocolate emerge toward the finish. This feels a little obvious in terms of winemaking at the moment, but I suspect it will evolve into a delicious Valmur. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $117

Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin Valmur, Chablis Grand Cru 2017 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur has come together nicely since I tasted it last year, picking up additional tension with further time on the lees. Unwinding in the glass with a reserved bouquet of green apple, iodine and citrus oil and framed by a subtle touch of wood, it’s medium to full-bodied, deep and structured, with chewy extract to burn and lively acids. This will demand some patience.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $79.99

Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin Vaulorent, Chablis Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 93 points “The 2015 Chablis Vaulorent 1er Cru has a very attractive bouquet of orange pith and gunflint infused with pressed yellow flowers. The poised, harmonious palate is well balanced, displaying a fine thread of acidity and just the right amount of salinity on the finish. This is a brilliant Vaulorent from Benoît Droin. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Love Chablis? We have 45 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Fèvre, Servin, Vocoret and more, on our web store now.

Caparzo Brunello Subscriber Special

Ends Thursday

Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini dreamed of living on a vineyard from a young age. However, like it so often does, life intervened. After stints in both the entertainment and pharmaceutical industries, she followed her heart and purchased the historic Caparzo vineyard in Brunello di Montalcino in 1998.

Although vines had long stood on the Caparzo land alongside olive trees and forest, the vineyard itself wasn’t established until the 1960s. During the intervening years the vineyard passed from several different owners, never receiving the attention and care it deserved. After purchasing the property, Gnudi decided to focus on what she thought the estate would do best: high-quality wines based on Sangiovese.

With the help of Massimo Bracalente, she made investments to improve quality in both the vineyard and cellar, all the while staying true to regional traditions. Today, the results speak for themselves. Under Gnudi, the Caparzo vineyard has become a rising star within the region, and the 2016 bottling is undoubtedly the finest yet. So take advantage of our Subscriber Case Specials before it’s too late!

Subscriber Case Specials expires Thursday, June 17th

Pre-Arrival ETA Late-July:

Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($49.95) $44.50 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($289.95) $255 pre-arrival Subscriber Case Special ends 6/17 (that’s only $42.50/bottle!) ***case special will not appear online, please call/email/stop by to order***
Case-12 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($499.95) $479 pre-arrival Subscriber Case Special ends 6/17 (that’s only $39.92/bottle!) ***case special will not appear online, please call/email/stop by to order***
Wine Spectator 96 points “Ripe, sweet cherry and raspberry fruit are accented by floral, mineral and wild herbs in this alluring red. A backbone of dense, dusty tannins provides support, and the ripe fruit returns on the savory finish. Excellent length. Best from 2023 through 2043. 15,000 cases made, 8,500 cases imported.”

Love Brunello? We have over 45 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Casanova di Neri, La Fortuna, Sassetti and more, on our web store now.

Recent German Arrivals

Schätzel & Fritz Haag

Schätzel

Much like German wine in general, the Rheinhessen is in the midst of a wine renaissance. While being credited with the first established vineyard in the entire country dating back to the Roman era, the majority of the area was previously too cold to produce Riesling at a satisfying level of ripeness. As a result, the region became largely devoted to bulk wine production post-WW II (most notably the infamous Liebfraumilch). That has all changed largely due to Weingut Schatzel, a family producer that has been growing wine grapes since 1304. The vineyards managed by Schatzel in the Roter Hang (Red Slope) have been compared to the terraces of Côte-Rôtie and the Mosel due to their steepness and distinctive soil. Composed of bright red slate and quartzite that reflects and absorbs heat to assist in ripening, this is the “Grand Cru” of the Rheinhessen.

In order to express the varietal character as well as the terroir differences, Schatzel bottles their wines by vineyard. Encompassing over 5 separate vineyards within the Rhineterasse, the resulting wines walk a tightrope of minerality between fleshy and austere fruit expression, encompassing a spectrum of flavor ranging from passionfruit, lemon curd, ginger juice and peaches. The cornucopia of jasmine, valerian flower, lavender stem, wet slate, crushed nutmeg and charred grapefruit aromas challenge you to not finish the glass in record time. In spite of drinking beautifully now, these are built to age and should only get more ethereal. These are fabulous examples of why Riesling is considered one of the rare “universal pairing” wines of the world.

In Stock Now:

Weingut Schätzel Hipping Riesling Trocken, Rheinhessen 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 94 points “Could a white wine be fresher than this? Fabulous white-peach and herbal character with lots of mineral power at the complex, racy finish.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Weingut Schätzel Nierstein Silvaner, Rheinhessen 2017 750ML ($34.95) $29 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Honeydew melon, white fruits and earthy undertones. Slightly reductive, herbal, nutty and mineral character. Bone dry and juicy on the palate. Extremely complex for 11% vol.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Weingut Schätzel Olberg Riesling Grosses Gewächs, Rheinhessen 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling 94 points “Considering this has only 11.5 per cent alcohol, there is extraordinary depth and vitality. The long finish is sleek and fine-grained, without any hint of edginess. Attractive white-fruit aromas, too. Drink or hold.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Only 1 bottle left in stock (18 bottles re-arriving in July)
Weingut Schätzel Pettenthal Riesling Kabinett Grosses Gewächs, Rheinhessen 2017 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling 95 points “Forget the rules, pack your bag, grab this bottle and leave your old life behind! Savage mineral beauty, combined with light body and enormous brightness. Drink or hold.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Weingut Schätzel Reinschiefer Riesling, Rheinhessen 2017 750ML ($34.95) $29 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling.com 92 points “Delicate white-fruit character and a delightful lightness of touch make this rather charming, in spite of its slightly eccentric personality. Long, lemon and mineral finish. A blend of wines from the top sites in Hipping, Ölberg and Pettentha. Screw cap.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Pre-Arrival ETA July:

Weingut Schätzel Nierstein Riesling Kabinett, Rheinhessen 2017 750ML ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Stuart Pigott-jamessuckling 92 points “So much freshness and energy with tons of elderflowers and white fruit. Super-crisp and very clean palate and a breathtaking finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Fritz Haag

“Oliver Haag has made an absolutely brilliant set of wines in 2018 and this may well be the single finest vintage collection of young wines I have ever tasted from this iconic estate in Brauneberg. It is a flat out brilliant vintage for Weingut Fritz Haag; these are amongst Germany’s very greatest examples of the 2018 vintage” –John Gilman, View From The Cellar

In Stock Now:

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Grosses Gewächs, Mosel 2014 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 4 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2014 Brauneberg Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling trocken GG displays a lovey, pure and refreshing stony bouquet with lemon and bright fruit flavors, as well as very delicate slate aromas. This is a beautiful dry Riesling of great finesse and elegance that is light but intense in its mineral complexity. Very pure, salty and provided with a lovely intensity. The wine is bottled with 13% alcohol, but you don’t taste it. Very promising.”
Wine & Spirits “The Brauneberg Juffer Sonnenuhr GG – Grosses Gewächs, Germany’s equivalent of “grand cru” dry wines – can be intimidating in their power, but let the 2014 GG warm up in the glass and the acidity wends through the wine in a joyous way, making the concentrated fruit taste juicy and thirst quenching while it simultaneously embeds the earthy flavors into memory.”

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Mosel 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 4 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 96 points “The 2018 Juffer-Sonnenuhr Goldkapsel Auslese is even a hair better this year, as it shows just a touch more exotic creaminess on the attack, simply stunning backend mineral drive and great acids for the vintage. The bouquet is celestial in its blend of lime, mirabelle, pear, a lovely foundation of slate, honeycomb, just a whisper of mossiness and notes of lilacs and violets in the upper register. On the palate the wine is fullish, pure, focused and impeccably balanced, with superb acids and grip, laser-like focus and a very, very long and complex finish. This wine just dances across the palate. 2026-2085.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 11 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 95+ points “The 2018 Juffer-Sonnenuhr Auslese is one of my absolutely favorite wines in the cellar this year, as again, there is no botrytis here and the wine is a legend in the making. The brilliant bouquet soars from the glass in a blaze of lime, pear, violets, a hint of the yellow plum to come, salty soil tones, honeycomb and a vibrant topnote of citrus zest. On the palate the wine is pure, refined and fullish in profile, with a creamy core of fruit, excellent acidity and grip and a very long, very precise and beautifully mineral-driven finish. This is stunning juice! 2025-2075+.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Pre-Arrival ETA June:

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese, Mosel 2018 375ML ($699.95) $499 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 95 points “The 2018 Juffer TBA is just a bit higher in residual sugar than the Beerenauslese this year, as Oliver estimates that it is around one hundred and eighty grams per liter. This too is a gorgeous wine in the making, offering up refined bouquet of mirabelle, honey, white cherries, candied violets, citrus zest and a nice touch of saltiness from the slate. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, creamy and very long and complex, with excellent focus and grip, sound acids and a very long, pure and zesty finish. Utterly captivating and borderline criminal to spit. 2019-2100.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Love German wine? We have over 350 different options (not a typo!) in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Dönnhoff, JJ Prüm, Molitor and more, on our web store now.

Volpaia’s Perennial Tuscan Favorites

Including a Sub-$13/Bottle Case Special

We love the great wines of Tuscany—there’s something about the heart of Italy that’s utterly captivating. Perhaps no producer stands out more than Volpaia, whose high-altitude Chiantis have become perhaps our best-selling Chianti, year in and out. Volpaia first came to our attention when they placed multiple wines on the Wine Spectator Top 100 list over several years. Since then, their Chianti Classico and Riserva have become customer favorites thanks to their big, bold personalities.

In Stock Now:

Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2018 Chianti Classico is a gorgeous, mid-weight wine that captures the essence of the estate’s high-altitude vineyards. Freshly cut flowers, sweet red berries, licorice, mint, pine and cedar are some of the many aromas and flavors that are woven throughout. The 2018 is gracious, inviting and impeccable in its balance.”

Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($41.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Volpaia is an immensely rewarding, inviting wine. Juicy and racy, with no hard edges, the Riserva captures the allure of this warm, dry year. There is plenty to like in the 2017, starting with its depth and volume, I won’t be surprised if the Riserva turns out to be even better than this note suggests. Sweet red fruit, cedar and blood orange give the 2017 striking aromatic intensity and lift.”

Castello di Volpaia Citto Rosso Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($19.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Castello di Volpaia Citto Rosso Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($199.95) $149 special (that’s only $12.42/bottle!)
Importer Note “The Chianti Classico Riserva has a ruby-red hue with a trace of garnet. The nose is elegant, displaying hints of spice and fruit. This a well-structured wine with smooth tannins and a long finish. Barrel Aging: 24 months in oak casks (combination of Slovenian and French) and minimum 3 months in bottle. Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese. A record year for heat and drought throughout the growing season. This condition presented extremes which began early bud break in the vineyard, followed by a spring frost over late April. The frost affected the lower portions of the Volpaia estate. Spring and summer months were dry with higher than average temperatures. Rainfall in mid-September helped the grapes achieve complete ripeness of tannins and other phenolic compounds despite low yields.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love Tuscany? We have over 165 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Castell’in Villa, Fèlsina, Fontodi and more, on our web store now.

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

Staff Recommended Burgundy

All $65 – $80

Whites

In Stock Now:

Domaine Rollin Père et Fils Sous Frétille, Pernand-Vergelesses Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 21 bottles available
Rosenthal Note “This vineyard is a relatively recent acquisition by the Rollin family (the 2000 vintage was the first to issue from the domaine) but it is a parcel of old vines in one of the elite lieu-dits of the village. The vineyard is situated on slopes overlooking the village and is just around the corner from Corton Charlemagne. A powerful wine that benefits from several years of bottle age … only 35 cases per annum are allocated to us for the USA.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $76

Domaine Henri Boillot Meursault, Côte de Beaune 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 19 bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91 points “Aromas of pear, green apple, white flowers, fresh pastry and toasted hazelnuts introduce the 2018 Meursault Village, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive wine that’s chalky and structured, showing real depth and tension. As usual, it’s a blend of superior lieux-dits, including Narvaux, En la Barre, Limuzin and Clos du Cromin.”

Reds

In Stock Now:

Bruno Desaunay-Bissey Vosne-Romanée Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Nuits 2015 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2015 Vosne-Romanée Village is excellent, opening in the glass with a classic bouquet of black cherry, currants, game bird and rich soil. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with juicy acids, supple tannins and a sappy core of fruit. This doesn’t hit the highs of the domaine’s grander appellations, but it is an attractively unpretentious communal wine with creamy old-vine concentration, and it should evolve attractively over more than a decade.”
VinopolNote “From 80+ year old vines, farmed sustainably. The bulk of the holdings of the estate are in the village of Vosne and the wines show the touch of someone who has lots of experience with these wines. A really superb villages level Vosne.”

Domaine Forey Père et Fils Morey-Saint-Denis, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 22 bottles available
Neal Rosenthal “Forey’s village-level Morey-Saint-Denis consists of two minuscule holdings of vines between 30 and 50 years of age (one in Clos Solon and one in Les Crais.). Fermented with 70% whole clusters and aged in demi-muids like the Bourgogne above, the 2017 displays impressive density on its otherwise lithe and energetic frame.”

François Gay et Fils Ladoix Rouge, Côte de Beaune 2010 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 6 bottles available
Importer note “Domaine Gay François et Fils, situated in Chorey-les-Beaune, is a family domaine with 8 hectares. Pascal Gay took over the farm from his father François in 2003 and is now the 8th generation wine maker.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Domaine Matrot La Pièce Sous Le Bois, Blagny Premier Cru 2010 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 7 bottles available
Importer note “Joseph Matrot (1881-1963), the grandson of owners of a family wine estate in Puligny-Montrachet and Blagny, lived with his wife, Marguerite Amoignon, and their three children at Château d’Evelle. Marguerite also owned a beautiful wine estate in Meursault. In 1914, they took up residence in Marguerite’s family home, which is today the seat of Domaine Matrot, and decided to develop and extend the estate. Over the course of generations, Domaine Matrot continued to expand with the addition of new vineyard holdings, and in 2000 began harvesting the vineyards organically. Today, sisters Adèle and Elsa Matrot are in charge of the management and winemaking of the Domaine, ensuring that the family-run domaine will be in good hands for many years to come. Observing careful cultivation and vinification techniques, Domaine Matrot wines offer purity of fruit and terroir-driven character.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $88.33

Jérôme Chézeaux Rue de Chaux, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($89.95) $75 special, 6 bottles available
Importer note “Located almost dead-center in the appellation, Rue de Chaux is perhaps the most quintessentially “Nuits-Saint-Georges” among Chezeaux’s premier crus. Jerome owns a mere 0.29 hectares in this steep, topsoil-deficient vineyard, and his ever-elegant touch yields a wine of both grace and power. Darkly fruited, dense, and slightly brooding, it also offers an enchanting savory-spicy perfume.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Henri Gouges Clos des Porrets Monopole, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 15 bottles available
Decanter 94 points “This hails from a mid-slope premier cru on the south side of Nuits and mixes clay and limestone soils within the Gouges’ 3.7ha monopole. It’s an intense, aromatic and comparatively early-drinking style with some chalky freshness, medium-weight tannins and a hint of volatility.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Domaine Faiveley Les Porêts-Saint-Georges, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 16 bottles available
James Suckling 91 points “Pretty dark fruits such as blackberry and blueberry with hints of spice. Full body, tight center palate, and fine tannins. Better in a year or two, but very delicate, firm and delicious.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $96

Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Les Brouillards, Volnay Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 21 bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 90-92 points “The 2017 Volnay 1er Cru Les Brouillards exhibits beautiful nose notes of orange rind, wild berries, cassis and rose petals. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, supple and satiny, with a lavishly textural attack, melting tannins and a succulent core of fruit, concluding with a long finish. In 2016, this cuvée was so small that Glantenay included it in his Volnay AOC, but happily, 2017 marks its return to the range.”

Love red Burgundy? We have over 200 different options from the Côte de Nuits and over 90 different options from the Côte de Beaune in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Bouley, Clos de la Chapelle, Fourrier and more, on our web store now.

New Wine Spectator Review

Evening Land’s 2018 Chardonnay

“Vibrant and steely, with layers of lime and Meyer lemon that show wet stone accents, building toward a snappy finish. Drink now through 2023.” –Tim Fish, Wine Spectator

Arriving Friday, June 18th:

Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Tim Fish-Wine Spectator 93 points “Vibrant and steely, with layers of lime and Meyer lemon that show wet stone accents, building toward a snappy finish. Drink now through 2023.”
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2018 Chardonnay Seven Springs Vineyard has pretty aromas of elderflower, poached pears, quince and bakers yeast. In the mouth, it’s medium -bodied and satiny in texture, fleshing out to broad, savory tones and finishing long and fresh. Fruit for this cuvée comes from both the younger and older vines.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Also Arriving Friday:

Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 91 points “Pale to medium ruby-purple, the 2018 Pinot Noir Seven Springs Estate has gently broody scents of blackberries, earth, dried violets and herbs. The light to medium-bodied palate is soft, bright and spicy with earthy undertones and fresh acidic lift, finishing delicate and long.”

Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Rosé of Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2020 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Winery note “The Seven Springs Rosé comes from the young Pinot Noir vines planted up on the vineyard’s East Ridge. These densely planted vines grow in well-drained soils and receive a full day of sunshine during the growing season. This cuvée offers a lively acidity, fresh fruit flavors and subtle floral characteristics.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Arriving Friday from Evening Land’s Newest Project, Salem Wine:

Salem Wine & Co. Chardonnay Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2018 Salem Wine Co. Chardonnay has a a nose of elderflower, pear, baker’s yeast and lemongrass with touches of beeswax. The palate is medium-bodied with broad, savory flavors, bright freshness and a long, flavorful finish. This is made from younger vines a few hundred feet away from the older vines in Seven Springs vineyard, planted with a slight south-facing exposition.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Salem Wine & Co. Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2018 Salem Wine Co. Pinot Noir has a nose of ripe red and black berry jam with touches of powered sugar and spices. The medium-bodied palate has ripe fruits with a grainy, fresh frame and long finish.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

In Stock Now:

Evening Land ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Rosé of Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Winery note “The 2019 Seven Springs Rosé of Pinot Noir comes from young vines Pinot planted up on the vineyard’s East Ridge. These densely planted vines grow in well-draining soils and receive a full day of sunshine during the growing season. The gradual and even ripening that occurred during the 2019 growing season resulted in beautifully layered wines, with nuance and refinement. For the rosé, we were fortunate to realize a depth of flavor and aroma across the bright fruit and floral spectrum while still retaining mouthwatering acidity and freshness. The wine opens with a subtle whiff of reduction followed by under-ripe strawberries, white flowers, and dried apricots. The palate is lively and whimsical and begs for a dish like fritto misto or a salde nicoise.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love supporting local wineries? We have over 200 different options from Oregon in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Championship Bottle, Cameron, Goodfellow and more, on our web store now.

Trending Champagne

Including a Steal on Charles Heidsieck’s BdB

Charles Heidsieck is one of the great and historic houses of Champagne. However, because of their small size they tend to be overlooked. Their house style is notable for its richness and texture, incorporating long aging on the lees and significant amounts (20+%) of reserve wines in their NV blends. Best known for their classic Brut Réserve, Charles Heidsieck was one of the pioneers of the Blanc de Blancs style in the mid-20th century. And after decades of producing some of Champagne’s finest vintage Blanc de Blancs, the house relaunched their NV Blanc de Blanc in 2018. After tasting the wine, we’re left wondering what took them so long. In a few short years the wine is already being regarded as one of the best flagship Blanc de Blancs in the region.

In Stock Now:

Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blancs, Champagne NV 750ML ($99.95) $66 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 92 points “Based on the 2012 vintage, the latest rendition of Heidsieck’s NV Blanc de Blancs incorporates some 20% reserve wines, derived from younger vintages to emphasize what Cyril Brun described as the “youthful” side of Chardonnay, in contrast to the mature expression of that cépage offered by the house’s Blanc de Millénaires. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, white flowers, green apple and walnut oil, complemented by some of the empyreumatic nuances so typical of the base vintage, it’s a medium to full-bodied, elegantly textural and incisive wine that’s lively and inviting. It was disgorged last year with nine grams per liter dosage.”
Decanter 92 points “One of the pioneers of the blanc de blancs style, Charles Heidsieck only relaunched its 100% Chardonnay NV Champagne in 2018. Round but incisive and fresh, this has lovely balance between its creamy, woody mouthfeel and its fresh, saline acidity. A lovely food wine.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $79.89

More Trending Champagne, in Stock Now:

R.H. Coutier Cuvée Tradition Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92 points “[Review for prior disgorgement] The NV Brut Tradition Grand Cru is fabulous. Rich, ample and creamy in the glass, the Brut Tradition captures all of the natural intensity of Ambonnay in its expansive personality. Pinot Noir drives this blend in both its flavor profile and weight. Red cherry, plum, cinnamon, cedar and dried flowers are some of the many notes that build over time. This release is based on 2013, with 40% reserve wines. Disgorged: November, 2019.”

Nicolas Maillart Premier Cru Extra Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($54.95) $45 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 90 points “A blend of equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the NV Extra-Brut Premier Cru was disgorged in February 2019 with three grams per liter dosage. Offering up aromas of crisp green orchard fruit, dried white flowers and citrus oil, it’s medium to full-bodied, racy and incisive, with a perceptibly drier, tangier profile than Maillart’s more enveloping Brut Platine.”
Winery Note “Golden in colour with a fine, lingering bead. Aroma: Intense with notes of fruit and hazelnuts and a sligth toastiness. Taste: The initial impact is wonderfully fresh and vinous, followed by great finesse. Food and wine: Aperitif, white fish like haddock or cod. Pinot Noir is dominant, with a complement of Chardonnay that brings freshness to the blend. The high percentage of reserve wines (30 to 40%), aged in barrels, confers a high regularity and style to this Brut Platine. Only “Grand” and premier crus are used in this wine, with origins in the Montagne de Reims, on vineyards managed by us. With a very gentle process, we keep all the richness of the grapes. Aged around three years on its lees, this Brut Platine develops all its richness. A natural balance and freshness allows a low dosage (3 g/l).”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Diebolt-Vallois Blanc de Blancs Brut Millésimé, Champagne 2011 750ML ($59.95) $46 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
No reviews for the 2011 vintage. 2010 review provided for reference.
Wine Spectator 92 points “This elegant blanc de blancs shows a pleasing vibrancy from the lively bead and bright acidity, both well-meshed to pretty floral and spice accents and flavors of Gala apple, biscuit and lemon zest. Creamy. Drink now through 2025. 16 cases imported.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Lilbert-Fils Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points “This graceful Champagne is like the finely tailored suit that somehow never goes out of style, with a lovely overtone of minerally chalk and brine enticing you into the glass, where flavors of apricot and Marcona almond, and hints of passionfruit coulis and pickled ginger, ride the fine, satinlike mousse. Disgorged autumn 2018. Drink now through 2028.”

Savart L’Ouverture Blanc de Noirs Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Savart L’Ouverture Blanc de Noirs Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($599.95) $529 special (that’s only $44.08/bottle!)
John Gilman 91+ points “The l’Ouverture cuvée from Monsieur Savart is composed entirely from pinot noir grown in the village of Écueil, with half of the vins clairs barrel-fermented and raised in cask and the other in tank. Only the reserve wines that go into the blend have gone through malo for this wine, which is aged under cork, rather than crown cap prior to disgorgement. This release was disgorged in September of 2020 and finished with a dosage of seven grams per liter. It offers up a lovely nose of white peach, apple, patissière, chalky soil tones and a nice touch of orange zest in the upper register. On the palate the wine is crisp, full-bodied and complex, with a fine core, good mineral drive, frothy mousse and lovely focus and balance on the long and youthful finish. This is a lovely bottle that will be even better with a few years in the cellar. 2021-2040+.”

Bérêche et Fils Brut Réserve, Champagne (2018) NV 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Disgorged in July 2020 with seven grams per liter dosage, the NV Brut Réserve (2018 base) is the latest rendition of this wine. Bursting with aromas of orange oil, crisp orchard fruit and fresh bread, it’s medium to full-bodied, fleshy and gourmand, with tangy acids and an enveloping, pillowy profile.”

André Clouet Un Jour de 1911… Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($99.95) $74.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 93+ points “[Review is for a prior disgorgement] The NV Grand Cru Cuvée 1911 emerges from the glass with the most haunting of perfumes. Sweet rose petal and jasmine are some of the nuances that emerge over time. Despite recent disgorgement, the purity of the fruit and the extraordinary elegance of the mousse are hard to miss. This is an exceptional, elegant version of the 1911 that should drink beautifully for years to come. The bottle I tasted needed quite a bit of air to open up, so readers should be patient with the wine at this stage.”

Love Champagne? We have over 165 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Bollinger, Laurent Perrier, Taittinger and more, on our web store now.

Vinopolis Tuesday Newsletter 06-15-21

In This Newsletter:

Huge Price Reductions
Hubert Lignier’s Classic Burgundy

Il Poggione’s 2016 Brunello
Lands in September

Northern Rhône Case Specials
Delas, Merlin & More

Top Burgundy Picks
$50 – $60

Collector’s Corner
2019 Sequitur Arrives Friday

Huge Price Reductions

Hubert Lignier’s Classic Burgundy

Hubert Lignier is one of the finest names in Burgundy. The wines have been a core of the Neal Rosenthal portfolio since the 1978 vintage and have always been one of its jewels. These are some of the defining wines of Morey-St. Denis, different from Dujac stylistically but no less profound.

We have an extensive collection of Lignier’s wines from some of Burgundy’s finest recent vintages. 2016 and 2017 were both fantastic across Burgundy, yielding fresh, balanced wines with purity and charm. Contrasting the two, the 2016s are generally more elegant, while the 2017s have more structure. Both vintages are expected to age gracefully, and Lignier’s wines are no exception.

There were initially some concerns about the 2018 vintage following a summer marked by heat spikes. However, in bottle the wines have shown more freshness than expected, with a plush, youthful appeal. This is the Burgundy vintage for impatient connoisseurs.

In an effort to get more of these enchanting bottles on tables, and in cellars, we’ve slashed prices (including a $300 drop on the 2017 Clos de la Roche “MCMLV”) and are now offering nearly all of our selection at national best pricing. So take advantage of these outstanding deals and acquaint (or reacquaint) yourself with the classic wines of Hubert Lignier.

In Stock & Priced to Move:

Domaine Hubert Lignier Bourgogne Pinot Noir Grand Chaliot, Burgundy 2018 750ML ($59.95) Was $49 Now $41.90, 2 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “The “Grand Chaliot” lieu-dit is situated just south of Nuits-Saint-Georges, and the Ligniers work 1.25 hectares of vines there planted in 1987. Given its proximity to Nuits-Saint-Georges, this wine possesses a seriousness and mineral depth rare for a Bourgogne, particularly impressive in its amplitude and intensity. A mere 10% new oak allows the energetic and spice-tinged flavors to shine through unimpeded.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Bourgogne Passe-tout-grains, Burgundy 2018 750ML ($34.95) Was $29 Now $27, 25 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “Lignier’s Passetoutgrain is benchmark of its category, offering the finesse of far loftier appellations and embodying the authoritative depth of the house style in miniature form. The wine comprises 0.4 hectares worth of vines: 60% Gamay (from 1960) and 40% Pinot Noir (from 1998), planted within the confines of Morey-Saint-Denis proper in a site called Aux Poirelots. Aged entirely in used barrels, this cuvée is bottled without fining or filtration just before the next harvest.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Chambolle-Musigny Les Bussieres, Cote du Nuits 2017 750ML ($149.95) Was $125 Now $108, 12 bottles in stock now
Domaine Hubert Lignier Chambolle-Musigny Les Bussieres, Cote du Nuits 2017 1.5L ($299.95) Was $279 Now $245, 1 bottle in stock now
Rosenthal Note ““Les Bussieres” sits just below the premier cru “Les Sentiers” (and just down-slope from grand cru Bonnes-Mares), hard on the border of Morey-Saint-Denis. The Ligniers exploit just under a half-hectare of vines here—a total of four parcels, planted between 1948 and 1988. This wine combines classic Chambolle elegance and mineral precision with the savory guts of Morey, with loads of spice and floral accents to the nose and a focused, linear palate that should soften and expand with a few years of cellaring.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Les Chabiots, Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($299.95) Was $249 Now $219, 3 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note ““Les Chabiots” is a dreamily situated premier cru that lies just north of Musigny, perched just above the fabled “Les Amoureuses” on the slope in the southern sector of Chambolle. Hubert and Laurent began purchasing grapes from a parcel of 20-year-old vines here during their recent inheritance battle, and they have continued to produce wine from this great but tiny cru ever since. The wine is intoxicatingly ethereal on the nose—open, enveloping, and inviting. The palate is round but well structured, with generous, sappy fruit, and a hedonistically succulent finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($419.95) Was $379 Now $299, 3 bottles in stock now
Tim Atkin MW – Decanter 95 points “Laurent Lignier’s Charmes comes from a tiny 0.1ha parcel in Mazoyères, close to the Aux Combottes premier cru. It’s an intensely perfumed, come-hither Pinot that’s floral, silky and svelte, with 20% whole-bunch spice and 30% new wood adding further complexity. 2024-2029.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Clos de la Roche Grand Cru MCMLV, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($1,499.95) Was $1,199 Now $899, 1 bottle in stock now
Neal Rosenthal note “For the first time, Laurent Lignier produced a separate cuvée of Clos de la Roche in 2017 in honor of his grandfather Henri. The Clos de la Roche “MCMLV” comes entirely from Henri’s first planting in 1955: 27 rows of Pinot Noir in the Monts Luisants climat, which he used to propagate the rest of his holdings during the 1960s. This original parcel is highly susceptible to millerandage, which results in small berries of immense concentration, and Laurent harnessed the full power and intensity of such fruit in this stupendous bottling—of which he produced a mere two barrels. A wine such as this embodies Burgundy’s most profound essence: the continuous spirit and presence of a family whose members’ very hands have worked these same vines, this same parcel, since the vines were planted. How could Henri Lignier, when he was breaking earth in 1955, have ever imagined the course his home region would take over the ensuing decades, or the global acclaim that would be heaped on his son’s and his grandsons’ wines? Yet, despite the incredible changes those ensuing 65 years have witnessed, a Lignier has steadfastly worked each vine among these 27 rows of Clos de la Roche, vintage after vintage, gradually building its reputation as one of red Burgundy’s pinnacles. “MCMLV” is not just a great wine, then; it is an emblem of all that makes Burgundy special.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Gevrey-Chambertin, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($119.95) Was $89 Now $81.80, 26 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “The Ligniers purchased the fruit for this wine, but they oversee the vineyard work from July onward, as well as the harvest itself. Produced from parcels in two lieu-dits—15-year-old vines in “Epointures” and 60-year-old vines in “Reniard”—this is pitch-perfect Gevrey-Chambertin: meaty and succulent, with classic Lignier poise and a long, mineral-drenched, driving finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $88.50

Domaine Hubert Lignier Gevrey-Chambertin Les Seuvrées, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($119.95) Was $99 Now $89, 24 bottles in stock now
Domaine Hubert Lignier Gevrey-Chambertin Les Seuvrées, Côte de Nuits 2017 1.5L ($269.95) Was $219 Now $179, 1 magnum in stock now
Neal Martin – Vinous 89-91 points “The 2017 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Seuvrées contains around 20% whole bunch fruit. It has a fresh, generous bouquet, hints of brown spice infusing the red fruit. The palate is well balanced with sappy red fruit laced with orange peel, quite firm grip in the mouth and a slightly austere finish at the moment. Give this three or four years.”
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2017 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Seuvrées is showing very well, unfurling in the glass with suggestions of cassis, raspberries, sweet soil tones and spices. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, ample and nicely concentrated, with good depth at the core and fine-grained but firm, even chalky, structuring tannins. This should evolve well in bottle.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($699.95) Was $599 Now $519, 1 bottle in stock now
Neal Martin – Vinous 91-93 points “The 2017 Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru comes from purchased fruit. It has a well-defined bouquet of blackberry, raspberry coulis and light cassis aromas, and the one-third new oak is neatly integrated. The fleshy, generous palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and fine acidity, leading to a smooth, sensual finish. This might be earlier-drinking than Lignier’s other two Grand Crus.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $535

Domaine Hubert Lignier Les Chaffots, Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($219.95) Was $179 Now $149, 6 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin – Vinous 91-93 points “The 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis Les Chaffots 1er Cru, from vines up to 90 years old, has a refined, quite floral bouquet, scents of peony tincturing the red fruit. The sorbet-fresh palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, a citric line of acidity and a harmonious, elegant finish. Bon vin.”
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru Les Chaffots reveals aromas of sweet cassis and cherries that mingle with nuances of cinnamon, licorice, dark chocolate and nori. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, layered and tangy, with a tauter, more acid-driven profile than the other premiers crus by virtue of its higher-altitude locate, displaying excellent concentration and high-quality structuring tannin.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $157.50

Domaine Hubert Lignier La Riotte, Morey St Denis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($249.95) Was $199 Now $159, 3 bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 90-93 points “The supplest, most open-knit of Lignier’s premiers crus from Morey, the 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru La Riotte bursts with aromas of plummy fruit, red currants, subtle spices and rose hip. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, supple and expansive, with a layered mid-palate, fine but chalky tannins and a saline finish. This will win friends in its youth.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Morey-Saint-Denis Très Girard, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($119.95) Was $99 Now $89, 6 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin – Vinous 89-91 points “The 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis Très Girard has a refined bouquet of ample red berry fruit, nicely defined and revealing hints of orange blossom. The palate is well balanced with supple tannin, nice focus and a caressing texture toward the finish. Lovely.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Morey-Saint-Denis Trilogie, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($149.95) Was $119 Now $85, 12 bottles in stock now
Tim Atkin MW – Decanter 93 points “As the name of his wine suggests, Laurent Lignier gets his fruit from three different parcels – Les Porroux, Clos Solon and Les Chenevery – to make a super village cuvée. Stylish and well balanced, it’s made with 25% stems and 20% new wood. It’s wonderfully scented and pure with a long, sappy finish. 2022-2028.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($299.95) Was $249 Now $199, 4 bottles in stock now
William Kelley – Wine Advocate 92-94+ points “The 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru Vieilles Vignes is superb, wafting from the glass with a complex bouquet of warm spices, raspberries, cherries, dark chocolate and candied peel. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, layered and textural, with the most depth and dimension of Lignier’s premiers crus, its deep core of fruit largely concealing the wine’s fine-grained structuring tannins, concluding with a saline finish. This cuvée hails from a parcel that straddles the climats Faconnières and Chenevery that was planted in 1936, 1942 and 1943, and which the Lignier family has always vinified as a single cuvée.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Nuits-Saint-Georges Les Poisets, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($149.95) Was $110 Now $89, 6 bottles in stock now
Domaine Hubert Lignier Nuits-Saint-Georges Les Poisets, Côte de Nuits 2017 1.5L ($299.95) Was $249 Now $199, 1 bottle in stock now
Tim Atkin MW – Decanter 92 points “This is comparatively new to the Lignier portfolio as the family only bought this vineyard in 2010. The impressive village site sits below the Les Cailles premier cru on the south side of Nuits-St-Georges. Old-vine concentration, 25% whole bunches and 20% new wood all contribute to the quality of this sappy, intense, mineral-edged red. Drink between 2021-2027.”
Rosenthal Note “This, too, is a recent acquisition by the domaine. This small parcel is planted to vines that are fifty-five years of age (as of 2012). The site is in a superb location sitting just beneath the great 1er Cru “Les Cailles”. The first vintage produced by the Ligniers is 2010.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Pommard En Brescul, Côte de Beaune 2017 750ML ($119.95) Was $99 Now $89, 6 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “Although the Lignier domaine is historically associated with the Côte de Nuits, their firmly classical house style melds beautifully with the mineral rigor of Pommard. Hubert and Laurent ventured into this zone during the period of uncertainty following Romain’s death, and this “En Brescul” comes from a 0.4-hectare parcel of 20-year-old vines on which the family has a 25-year lease.”

Domaine Hubert Lignier Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru, Côte de Nuits 2016 750ML ($599.95) Was $499 Now $459, 3 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer 91-94 points “(the Ligniers do not do the harvest here; made from 50-year-old vines; 100% destemmed): Healthy full red. Pungent aromas of purple fruits, menthol and crushed rock. Quite pliant on entry, then precise and perfumed in the middle palate, showing noteworthy energy and lift to its flavors of small wild red fruits, minerals and spices. Not a particularly tannic wine but juicy, refined and long.”
William Kelley – Decanter 92 points “This year’s Griotte is an elegant middle-weight, offering up notes of creamy red cherry and meaty soil tones, followed by a supple, reserved wine with nice detail and a chalky, mineral finish. A pretty wine but, like the Charmes, this very much plays second fiddle to the superb Clos de la Roche in 2016.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Hubert Lignier Pommard En Brescul, Côte de Beaune 2016 750ML ($119.95) Was $89 Now $79, 2 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “Although the Lignier domaine is historically associated with the Côte de Nuits, their firmly classical house style melds beautifully with the mineral rigor of Pommard. Hubert and Laurent ventured into this zone during the period of uncertainty following Romain’s death, and this “En Brescul” comes from a 0.4-hectare parcel of 20-year-old vines on which the family has a 25-year lease.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love red Burgundy? We have over 200 different options from the Côte de Nuits and over 90 different options from the Côte de Beaune in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Fourrier and Montille, as well as more from Hubert Lignier.

Il Poggione’s 2016 Brunello

Lands in September

For those unfamiliar with the wines of Il Poggione, let’s catch you up quickly. They’re a classic Brunello producer working with very traditional methods in the subzone of Sant’Angelo in Colle, a region that tends to produce wines with big, bold personalities. The results are both crowd pleasing (rich fruit, up front aromatics) and intellectually stimulating (age-worthy, not obstructed by new oak) in way that’s unique in Brunello –outside of names that trade for significantly more money per bottle.

Il Poggione’s Brunello is contradictory in all the best ways. It’s an age-worthy wine that doesn’t necessarily require aging. It’s also a wine that’s top-tier collectible, yet remains affordable. 2016 was a phenomenal vintage in Tuscany and Il Poggione’s Brunello feels destined for greatness. So take advantage of our case-6 special and stock up on a wine that’s sure to deliver.

Pre-Arrival ETA September:

Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($519.95) $395 pre-arrival special (that’s only $65.83/bottle!)
Vinous 96 points “I’m not sure how Il Poggione manages to remain one of the largest producers of Brunello maintaining such a high level of quality and turning out some of the best wines of the vintage year after year – but they do. The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is yet another stunning example. Depths of mineral-encased black cherries sage allspice licorice tobacco and crushed violets lift up from the glass. It’s seamlessly silky even as the palate is peppered with tart red and black berries nervous acids and savory exotic spices. This shows the density and weight of the vintage in a youthfully monolithic stance yet with all the necessary components to maintain perfect balance. The 2016 Il Poggione seems to fold in upon itself through the finish which is dark mysterious and structured with only hints of black tea and licorice to tempt the imagination. It’s a classic in the making. (Drink between 2026-2040)”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Other Highlights, in Stock Now:

Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino lives up to the impeccable reputation garnered by this estate over the years. This is a profound and beautifully rendered Sangiovese that delivers bold and luscious fruit quality with black cherry and spicy plum at the start. The bouquet follows through with mild oak notes of smoke, tar and toasted nut. There is another aromatic component that includes crushed stone and dried herb or mint. This Brunello shows elegant evolution in the glass and promises a very long aging future ahead. Some 200,000 bottles were made, so it should be easy to locate this excellent wine.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $69.94

Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($89.95) $62.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($539.95) $359 special
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 97 points “The Il Poggione 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a darker and more concentrated appearance than many of its peers. The wine is beautifully abundant and fragrant in the most exuberant and expressive manner. You will recognize aromas of moist soil, tobacco and smoke. Candied cherry hovers over the entire bouquet. Fruit is sourced from older vines (all over 25 years old). Il Poggione occupies a special spot within the Montalcino appellation, and the area always produces slightly more concentrated and powerful wines. I find that to be particularly true in this gorgeous 2015 vintage. I am also very attracted to that almost dusty note of crushed mineral that rides long on the full-bodied finish. Il Poggione’s Brunello is also distinguished by firm, youthful tannin that need a few more years to unwind. Luckily, there are quite a few bottles to go around, with some 200,000 made.”
Eric Guido – Vinous 97 points “Il Poggione 2015 Brunello di Montalcino offers up a dark, earthy, almost animal-like expression, showing black soil and undergrowth, giving way to crushed black cherry, dusty spice, and dried florals which lift the experience. On the palate, soft, fleshy textures usher in fresh cherry and strawberry, as brisk acids add energy, with savory herbs and minerals saturating, as the 2015 Il Poggione’s fruit nearly masks its structural core. The finish is long yet fresh, with classic, fine tannins, dried red fruits and pretty inner floral tones lingering throughout this perfectly balanced expression. The 2015 s pure class and built for the cellar.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love Brunello? We have over 45 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Casanova di Neri and Sassetti, as well as more from Il Poggione.

Northern Rhône Case Specials

Delas, Merlin & More

Delas

Delas makes some of the most powerful, intense wines in the Northern Rhône at prices that make them one of the superior values in the region. Density and richness are a hallmark—there are no shrinking violets in the lineup. Star Champagne house Louis Roederer owns Delas and has been pushing the quality upwards each year. For whatever reason, the market has yet to catch up to the quality coming out of Delas’ cellar. The Northern Rhône has turned into one of the hottest markets in the wine world, with many wineries getting expensive overnight. That hasn’t happened to Delas—yet.

In Stock Now:

Delas Frères Saint-Joseph François de Tournon, Rhône 2015 750ML ($44.95) $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Delas Frères Saint-Joseph François de Tournon, Rhône 2015 750ML ($279.95) $156 special (that’s only $26/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “Inky and concentrated, the 2015 Saint-Joseph François de Tournon is no easy-drinking Saint-Joseph. It’s smoky, herbal and ashy all at once, yet it’s buoyed by ample black cherry fruit and vibrant acidity. This medium to full-bodied Syrah has plenty of tannins, but they’re ultimately silky and most apparent on the long, licorice-tinged finish. This is approachable now but should be even better in 3 years and should drink well for at least another 10 after that.”
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Both Saint Joseph releases are brilliant in 2015. The 2015 Saint Joseph François De Tournon comes vines around Tournon, Mauves, Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, and Vion, and is always destemmed and aged in 30% new barrels. This full-bodied, rounded, sexy beauty shows the power and fruit of the vintage. With classic notes of black and blue fruits, violets, incense and pepper, drink this textured, expansive, terrific Saint Joseph over the coming 10-15 years.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $39.99

Delas Frères Saint-Joseph François de Tournon, Rhône 2016 750ML ($44.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Delas Frères Saint-Joseph François de Tournon, Rhône 2016 750ML ($279.95) $179 special (that’s only $29.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2016 Saint Joseph François De Tournon comes from more schist and gneiss soils and spent 10-14 months in mostly used barrels, with a small part in tank to preserve more freshness. It’s another ruby/purple-colored effort from this estate and gives up lots of blackberry and blueberry fruits intermixed with earthy minerality, ground pepper, and hints of damp earth. Rich, layered, and textured, it will be better in a year or two and keep for 8-10, if not longer.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Merlin

After studying under Rene Rostaing, François Merlin planted his first vineyard in the late 1980s. Since then, he’s been meticulously caring for his tiny acreage and making exquisite, if under-the-radar, Rhône wines. Preferring to let the grapes speak for themselves, he ages the wines in mostly neutral oak and steel. These are fresh and vibrant wines that, coming from the warm 2018 vintage, are beautiful now with grippy tannins and balanced acids indicating a long life ahead of them.

In Stock Now:

Domaine François Merlin Côte Rôtie, Rhône 2018 750ML ($79.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Domaine François Merlin Côte Rôtie, Rhône 2018 750ML ($479.95) $279 special (that’s only $46.50/bottle!)
Decanter 93 points “A very soft style, very ripe and juicy. Fairly tannic, but they’re ripe and yielding with flavours of black fruit coulis and touch of liquorice. It has fairly high alcohol with a saline finish – there’s freshness despite the very ripe fruit. This is a palate-coating, fairly opulent style but will be good when it’s ready – has length.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Domaine François Merlin Saint-Joseph, Rhône 2018 750ML ($39.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Domaine François Merlin Saint-Joseph, Rhône2018 750ML ($479.95) $279 special (that’s only $23.25/bottle!)
Grapelive 93 points “The Domaine Merlin, based in St-Michel-sur-Rhône since 1989, a commune just south of Condrieu, is a small producer focused on Syrah and Viognier with good holdings in Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie and Saint-Joseph, where this beautiful wine comes from, it is a stylish and pure example of Northern Rhône Syrah that delivers a fine performance in the glass and is a stellar value. The Saint-Joseph Rouge is made from various small plots with a mix of sandy soils and granite, with a bit of limestone and was all de-stemmed to promote elegance and opulence in the wine, which was easily achieved here in this 2018 version. The wine saw a short cold soak maceration and gentle hand punch downs while fermenting after which this dark purple/garnet Syrah is raised in a combination of wood casks with about 20% being new 228L barrels with the majority seeing neutral oak in various sizes to allow for freshness and balance to shine here. This is quite impactful Saint-Joesph in the glass with more than expected density and presence, in fact it is almost as impressive as the winery’s top Côte-Rôtie with loads of blue and black fruits, delicate spices, perfume and textural pleasures. This is solid stuff with a classic medium to full bodied palate with lush layers of boysenberry, damson plum, kirsch and cedary wood notes, a touch of feral/earthy savoriness (the good kind of Syrah funk) and pretty violets, adding hints of anise, flinty mineral and a lingering sense of creme de cassis…With extended air, the 2018 Merlin Saint-Joseph gains depth and richness, but stays gracefully detailed and it is at its best with food, be sure to look for this bottling as it offers a ton of quality and personality for the price, this is a producer to add to your watch list, especially for Syrah lovers.”

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More Case Specials, in Stock Now:

Domaine du Tunnel Cornas, Rhône 2018 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Domaine du Tunnel Cornas, Rhône 2018 750ML ($479.95) $389 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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Paul Jaboulet Aîné Domaine de Thalabert Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône 2016 750ML ($47.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Paul Jaboulet Aîné Domaine de Thalabert Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône 2016 750ML ($279.95) $179 special (that’s only $29.83/bottle!)
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2016 Crozes Hermitage Domaine De Thalabert offers a rocking (and classic) bouquet of ripe black fruits intermixed with notions new saddle leather, pepper, garrigue, and hints of bacon fat. This ripe, medium to full-bodied, silky wine has remarkable purity, is already complex, and finishes with serious length. Drink it over the coming 10-15 years.”

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Love Rhône reds? We have over 150 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including more from Delas, Merlin, Tunnel and Jaboulet.

Top Burgundy Picks

$50 – $60

In Stock Now:

Domaine Collotte Chambolle-Musigny Cuvée Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Nuits 2018 750ML ($79.95) $51.90 special, 30 bottles available
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “The Chambolle-Musigny is from 40+ year old vines in the lieu-dit “Aux Echanges”. Aged in oak, 30% new, to round the tannins and aged another year in bottle. Deep color, black currant and blackberry aromas and flavors.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $62.99

Jérôme Chézeaux Nuits-Saint-Georges, Côte de Nuits 2017 750ML ($69.95) $52.50 special, 35 bottles available
Importer note “Chezeaux’s holdings of villages-level Nuits-Saint-Georges encompass 3.3 hectares spread throughout the appellation, with a significant proportion from the vineyards of Aux Saint Julien and Chaliots. In keeping with the spirit of the underlying terroir, this is wilder in character than the Vosne-Romanée, marked by notes of iron, and with a rambunctious bent to its tannins. Never deficient in fruit, it offers plenty of earth and sous-bois elements as well, all in a driving fashion.”

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Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Volnay, Côte de Beaune 2017 750ML ($67.95) $54.50 special, 31 bottles available
Neal Martin – Vinous 90-92 points “The 2017 Volnay Village comes from five parcels (including two small parcels of Premier Cru). It has a vibrant black cherry, bilberry scented bouquet with impressive vigour and neatly integrated oak. The palate is medium-bodied with light, supple tannin. Vibrant black cherries and raspberry, just a touch of salinity lending edginess towards the finish. Very fine.”

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Domaine Forey Père et Fils Nuits-Saint-Georges, Côte de Nuits 2013 750ML ($69.95) $55 special, 2 bottles available

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $74.99

Domaine Fabrice Vigot Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Nuits 2013 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 8 bottles available
Vinopolnote “Sourced from a trio of vineyards: Crais, Les Etelois, and Billards. Medium-bodied, with vibrant freshness and a suave finish; 100% destemmed.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Domaine Pierre Gelin Clos de Meixvelle, Gevrey-Chambertin 2014 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 2 bottles available
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate “The 2014 Gevrey Chambertin Clos de Meixvelle is a monopole located in the middle of the village (the walled vineyard next to the Les Deux Chevres hotel for those that go there). It is a flat vineyard with clayey soil and stone deposits, and this vintage was destemmed. It has a tightly wound blackberry and briary-scented nose, broody at first but opening with time. The palate is smooth on the entry with quite fine tannin. This is well balanced with nicely integrated oak, sappy black fruit and iodine towards the easy going, gentle, flavorsome finish.”

Jean-Claude Boisset Pommard, Côte de Nuits 2016 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 9 bottles available
James Suckling 94 points “A blend of two climats (Brescul and La Combotte). This draws on two very different parts of the appellation. A very upbeat style with ripe, red cherries and berries, as well as chocolate and light spices. The palate is very refined. Shows very long and detailed flavors of cherry compote. A long, succulent finish. Superb freshness and dense, fine tannins. Try from 2021”

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Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Les Santenots, Volnay Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($99.95) $59 special, 19 bottles available
Winery note “[Translated] From 55-65 year old vines on clay-limestone and loamy soils. Appreciated for its finesse, the Volnay Santenots is considered the most feminine wine of the Côte de Beaune. Bright ruby, its aromas are delicate and complex: violet, currant, cherry, spices, game, and prune. The freshness, the texture and the tannins are harmoniously balanced to give a charming, suave and fleshy wine, endowed with a beautiful energy.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $75

Collector’s Corner

2019 Sequitur Arrives Friday

Mike Etzel, the founder and winemaker of Sequitur, is a living legend in the Willamette Valley. He co-founded Beaux Frères in the late 1980s and was the winemaker there until recently passing the duties to his son. Never one to rest on his laurels or stay still, though, he began planting a vineyard adjacent to Beaux Frères in 2010—a project that became what we know as Sequitur.

It’s helpful to think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Frères over the decades. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Frères “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 Noir.

The winemaking style is exactly what you’d expect—these are wines that are made by the same hand that delivered so many high scores to Beaux Frères. Big, powerful and bold, these nevertheless have energy and grace that we think comes from the extra-attentive farming and unique clonal selection in the vineyard. In short order, Sequitur has established itself as one of the very best producers in the Willamette Valley and deserves your attention as such.

We’ve been eagerly awaiting the 2019s for months, and they’re finally landing this Friday!

Arriving Friday, June 18th:

Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Winery note “This year marked the 50th anniversary of the iconic music festival. As a tribute to the festival’s message of harmony, cooperation and hope—and as a nod to the persistent rains that helped define both this year’s harvest and the 1969 festival—we bring you Woodstock, Sequitur’s melodic, inspiring 2019 vintage.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($119.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Winery note “This year marked the 50th anniversary of the iconic music festival. As a tribute to the festival’s message of harmony, cooperation and hope—and as a nod to the persistent rains that helped define both this year’s harvest and the 1969 festival—we bring you Woodstock, Sequitur’s melodic, inspiring 2019 vintage.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Other Highlights, in Stock Now:

Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 17 bottles available
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 94 points “Pale yellow-gold. Fresh and incisive on the nose, displaying intense citrus and orchard fruit scents complemented by suggestions of toasty lees, iodine and sweet butter. Sappy, penetrating and seamless in texture, offering concentrated pear nectar, peach, tangerine and honeysuckle flavors that deepen slowly on the back half while maintaining energy. Finishes with repeating pear and floral notes, with a late jolt of dusty minerality pulling things together.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge 2018 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 20 bottles available
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Glistening straw-yellow. Vibrant, mineral-accented aromas of white peach, Anjou pear, melon and Meyer lemon carry a bright floral overtone. Juicy and densely packed, displaying a suave blend of richness and vivacity to the mineral-drenched citrus and orchard fruit and floral flavors. Picks up smoky lees, honey and iodine notes with air and shows outstanding clarity on a strikingly long, penetrating finish that echoes the mineral and citrus fruit notes.”
Winery Note “The 2018 growing season was warm and dry, resulting in yet another remarkable vintage on Ribbon Ridge. Towards the end of the summer, just before harvest, Jack was born. With the arrival of our first grandchild, we felt for the first time the presence of a new generation on the farm, reminding us of the cycle of renewal and growth. This vintage has the bright freshness of new breath—we hope you enjoy it! “

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 14 bottles available
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 Frères 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 is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $100

Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($119.95) $79 special, 22 bottles available
Nick Stock – jamessuckling.com 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.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love Oregon Pinot Noir? We have over 130 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Cameron and Cristom, as well as more from Sequitur.

Vinopolpick Monday Bonus 6-14-21

In Today’s Newsletter:

Oregon Case Specials
Including Biggio Hamina’s Site-Expressive Pinot

The Best Deal in Champagne?
André Clouet Grand Cru

Can’t-Miss California Case Specials
Including an Exclusive from Raj Parr

Shrewd Buys from Burgundy
All $36 – $49

Collector’s Corner
2015 Produttori Case Specials

Oregon Case Specials

Including Biggio Hamina’s Site-Expressive Pinot

Todd Hamina is one of the most respected winemakers in the Willamette Valley—think of him as your favorite winemaker’s favorite winemaker. After a decade working for other people, including Beaux Frères, Archery Summit, and Maysara, he launched a label with his wife, Caroline Biggio—and has been making some of the most exciting Pinot Noir in the valley ever since.

His wines are perfumed, elegant and site-expressive: exactly what we look for in Willamette Valley Pinot. Stylistically, Todd loves to use whole clusters and extended macerations to provide savory undertones that balance out his rich fruit. Think of them as a less-delicate, more fruit forward version of the wines that Marcus Goodfellow makes.

Most importantly, his wines deliver outstanding value. Based their quality, vineyard sources, and critical praise, these should easily be $15–20 more expensive. These are wines that lovers of Oregon Pinot need to have in their cellars and on their tables. With enough fruit and richness to remind you that they’re from the new world, but with a savory, elegant edge that echos Burgundy, they’re classic Willamette Valley. And for the prices that we’re offering them at, they’re tough to beat.

In Stock Now:

Biggio Hamina Claygate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Biggio Hamina Claygate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($199.95) $159 special (that’s only $26.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Biggio Hamina Claygate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2016 750ML ($399.95) $299 special (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Bright red. An exotically perfumed bouquet displays intense red fruit, potpourri and incense qualities. Spice and savory herb nuances build as the wine opens up. Bright and energetic in the mouth, offering densely packed and appealingly sweet raspberry liqueur, cherry and spicecake flavors that pick up a smoky mineral note on the back half. Plays power off of finesse deftly and finishes extremely long and floral, with sneaky, fine-grained tannins and a touch of exotic spices.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Biggio Hamina Noel Family Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains 2017 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Biggio Hamina Noel Family Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains 2017 750ML ($219.95) $179 special (that’s only $29.83/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94 points “Limpid ruby-red. An expansive, spice-accented bouquet evokes fresh red/blue fruits, vanilla and cola. A floral note builds as the wine stretches out. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, the Noel Vineyard shows very good depth and sharp delineation to its raspberry, boysenberry and cherry flavors. A hint of smokiness emerges on a very long, penetrating finish that’s framed by smooth, even tannins. Made with 50% whole clusters.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

More Case Specials, in Stock Now:

Bow & Arrow Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Bow & Arrow Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($249.95) $239 special (that’s only $19.92/bottle!)
Winemaker Note “While this ethos of “wine for the people” infuses the entire posture at Bow & Arrow, it’s this wine, the Willamette Valley Pinot in particular, that serves as our proof of concept. You can make, in the Willamette Valley, a Pinot Noir sourced from Biodynamic and Organic fruit that is lovingly and naturally tended to form start to finish AND sell it at a price that nearly anyone can glass pour. Assembled mainly from Johan Vineyard, Walnut Ridge and Hughes Hollow fruit, this wine was handled no differently than our single vineyard, top priced Pinot Noir. Tasted blind I imagine it would hang tough with any line-up of Oregon Pinots of any price or pedigree. (“I humbly submit” keeps getting auto-corrected to this hubristic nonsense. I’m sorry.)”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Cameron Winery Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2019 750ML ($39.95) $29.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Cameron Winery Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2019 750ML ($399.95) $339 special (that’s only $28.25/bottle!)
VinopolNote “Cameron’s Dundee Hills Pinot Noir is always one of the most anticipated offerings of the year. It delivers classic Cameron character and quality at a price that’s half what John Paul’s single-vineyard wines sell for—and the ’19 is a fantastic vintage. Cooler than 14/15/16/18, it’s a return to the “classic” style of the Willamette Valley, with a bit more texture and richness than wines from the 90’s. This edition is mostly from Abbey Ridge vineyard, with a bit of Clos Electrique blended in. We’re smitten.”

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Maggy Hawk Jory Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2017 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Maggy Hawk Jory Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2017 750ML ($319.95) $275 special (that’s only $45.83/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Pinot Noir Jory Hills Vineyard is an extroverted, luscious Pinot loaded with character. Black cherry, plum, lavender and spice come together in a bold, creamy Pinot endowed with plenty of richness and exuberance. The Jory Hills, from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, is a bit out of place in [this tasting report on] Anderson Valley Pinots, but it is undeniably impressive.”

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Cristom ‘Marjorie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Cristom ‘Marjorie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($479.95) $339 special (that’s only $56.50/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds 95 points “Translucent red. A wild, highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, exotic spices and candied flowers, with smoky mineral and incense notes that acquire strength as this youthful wine gains its footing. Stains the palate with vibrant raspberry, bitter cherry, star anise and rose pastille flavors that show a compelling blend of depth and litheness. Fine-grained tannins build slowly on a strikingly long, finely etched finish that features baking spice, floral and subtle earth notes.”
James Suckling 95 points “An earthy thread here with more savory, herbal and gently spicy notes, as well as graphite. Latent red cherries, too. The palate has a very sleek and succulent feel with evenly cast, sturdy tannins that harness great length and depth. Powerful yet measured and all about the earth. Try from 2023.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love Oregon Pinot Noir? We have over 130 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including more from Biggio Hamina, Cameron and Cristom.

The Best Deal in Champagne?

André Clouet Grand Cru

While Vinopolis doesn’t have a “house” Champagne, we seem to recommend two more than any others, André Clouet’s Grand Réserve and Silver Brut Nature. These have been stalwarts of our sparkling wine section for quite some time and are the wines that we measure all new value-minded Champagnes.

What makes the Grand Réserve and the Silver so good? For starters, they’re both 100% Grand Cru Pinot Noir, despite not being labeled as Blanc de Noirs. Both wines are perfectly balanced between supple and lively, making them a great reflection of the winemaker Jean-François Clouet. Jean-François believes that good winemakers need to be “very self-centered, a little bit paranoid and a touch schizophrenic…” And the wines that he creates have an energy and personality rare in sub-$75 Champagne, let alone sub-$35.

The Grand Réserve is an easy Champagne to love. It’s lightly toasty, citrusy and bright, with a texture to the palate that adds an irresistible tension. It is also an incredible wine to pair with food. We’ve had great success pairing it with everything from oysters to Merguez sausage, and it never fails to add something to the meal.

The Sliver Brut Nature is a different, but equally intriguing wine. While the Grand Réserve is drawing 50% from solera and reserve, the Silver is 66% vintage. Jean-François selects complimentary reserve wine and makes certain that the personality of this wine is very direct and delicious. While many zero dosage wines can seem austere, the Silver has clear notes of dried fruits and warm pie crust. And the Pinot Noir shines through with aplomb. While this wine is not shy, it is well-balanced and delivers delicious flavor without seeming flabby.

In Stock Now:

André Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
André Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special, 11 magnums in stock now
André Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 3L ($319.95) $279 special, 11 double-magnums in stock now
André Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 6L ($599.95) $519 special, 1 Imperial in stock now **IN-STORE PICK UP ONLY**
Case-6 André Clouet Grande Reserve Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($249.95) $189 special (that’s only $31.50/bottle!)
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 91 points “The NV Brut Grand Réserve Grand Cru is a pure Pinot Noir from Bouzy. It’s pure, fresh, fine and aromatic on the nose and round and delicate on the palate. The fruit-intense finish is chalky-mineral and stimulatingly fresh in its salty finesse and elegant yeastiness. Nice lemon juice flavors give an extra kick of refreshment. This is a picture-book NV Brut…”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

André Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
André Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 1.5L ($119.95) $89 special, 24+ magnums in stock now
André Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 3L ($349.95) $279 special, 12+ double-magnums in stock now
André Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 6L ($699.95) $599 special, 3 Imperials in stock now **IN-STORE PICK UP ONLY**
Case-6 André Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($249.95) $189 special (that’s only $31.50/bottle!)
Case-12 André Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($479.95) $359 special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 92+ points “Clouet’s NV Silver Brut Nature Grand Cru is a pure Bouzy Pinot Noir that was disgorged without any dosage. This disgorgement displays a medium intense golden color and a complex and refined bouquet of ripe and pureed apples and discreet chalky as well as brioche aromas. The palate is elegant, straight and fresh, very pure and salty on the finish. This is a challenging Brut Nature that needs to be aged for two or three years to gain complexity and finesse and to smooth its current edges. The finish is mineral, limestone and salty but also a bit drying at this moment.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Other Highlights, in Stock Now:

André Clouet Grand Cru Brut Rosé, Champagne NV 750ML ($54.95) $41.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 André Clouet Grand Cru Brut Rosé, Champagne NV 750ML ($319.95) $238 special (that’s only $39.67/bottle!)
Case-12 André Clouet Grand Cru Brut Rosé, Champagne NV 750ML ($599.95) $449 special (that’s only $37.42/bottle!)
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “The NV Brut Rosé No 3 Grand Cru is a pure Bouzy Pinot Noir that gets its beautiful intense onion-skin color from the addition of 8% red wine. The nose is rich and complex but at the same time pure and refined, with a nice chalky layer and vinous fruit intensity. Round and rich but fresh and vital on the pure and elegant palate, this is a full-bodied, pretty intense and persistent rosé to be served with main courses. This rosé is seriously complex and expressive, with grip, tension and a long finish. Remarkable in class and style.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

André Clouet Un Jour de 1911… Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($99.95) $74.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 93+ points “[Review is for a prior disgorgement] The NV Grand Cru Cuvee 1911 emerges from the glass with the most haunting of perfumes. Sweet rose petal and jasmine are some of the nuances that emerge over time. Despite recent disgorgement, the purity of the fruit and the extraordinary elegance of the mousse are hard to miss. This is an exceptional, elegant version of the 1911 that should drink beautifully for years to come. The bottle I tasted needed quite a bit of air to open up, so readers should be patient with the wine at this stage.”

André Clouet ‘Dream Vintage’ Brut, Champagne 2013 750ML ($65.95) $52.20 special, 10 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote “100% Chardonnay, bottled one year after harvest. Disgorged to order for the importer.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love Champagne? We have over 165 different options in stock. Shop the entire selection on our web store now, including staff favorites like Bérêche and Pierre Péters, as well as more from André Clouet.

Can’t-Miss California Case Specials

Including an Exclusive from Raj Parr

After the explosive popularity of our exclusive Evening Land/Brasserie 19 offer last year, we jumped at the chance to offer a formerly-exclusive wine from Rajat Parr’s Sta. Rita Hills winery, Sandhi—this time crafted specifically for legendary San Francisco restaurant Zuni Café. While it sold for $72 on Zuni’s list, we’re able to offer it for just $21.90—and less than $20/bottle by the case.

Oregon wine fans probably know Parr for his Willamette Valley winery Evening Land and their pioneering Seven Springs vineyard. Some years before signing on to Evening Land, Parr’s founded Sandhi, an elite, small-production winery that highlights the terroirs of Santa Barbara County. He and co-founder Sashi Moorman eschew extremes of ripeness, oak, and alcohol, instead crafting wines of elegance and restraint. Vineyard sources for the Sandhi lineup include the legendary cool-climate Bien Nacido, best known by the single vineyard bottlings produced by the Bien Nacido estate, Au Bon Climat, and Qupe Winery, and the world-classic, historic Sanford & Benedict.

This Chardonnay is a barrel selection from these illustrious vineyards. It was crafted with the wine director at one of SF’s finest restaurants, Zuni Café. We knew it would be a charming and food-friendly wine, but we were stunned by the quality when we tasted a sample bottle last week. Fans of Evening Land will be dazzled by the beauty and elegance through a Californian lens, fans of Sandhi will be impressed by the price.

This is an exclusive deal and, like the Brasserie 19 offer folks still ask about, when it’s gone it’s gone for good.

In Stock Now:

Sandhi Zuni Café Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2016 750ML ($34.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Sandhi Zuni Café Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2016 750ML ($399.95) $239 special (that’s only $19.92/bottle!)
Winery note “If you’ve ever sat at San Francisco’s iconic Zuni Café with a plate of oysters in front of you while you wait for the iconic whole roast chicken, you may have had a glass or two of this collaboration between longtime friends Rajat Parr of Sandhi and Zuni wine director Thierry Lovato. The wine is a barrel selection from some of Sandhi’s iconic Sta. Rita Hills sites, (think Mt. Carmel, Sanford & Benedict) with enough own-rooted, 1973 Wente selection Bien Nacido Chardonnay blended in to warrant a Santa Barbara County designation. Add to that the favorable 2016 vintage in which a very warm spring and early summer gave way to cool nights and moderate daytime temperatures in July & August. These conditions allowed the medium-sized crop to mature perfectly with small berries in pristine condition and yield a remarkably balanced wine with fine depth and intensity.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Also in Stock Now:

Whites

Rotation Wines Chardonnay, Lodi 2019 750ML ($17.95) $12.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Rotation Wines Chardonnay, Lodi 2019 750ML ($199.95) $135 special (that’s only $11.25/bottle!)
No reviews for the 2019. 2018 review provided for reference.
Jim Gordon – Wine Enthusiast “This well-balanced wine is medium bodied, nicely driven by citrus and crisp apple flavors, and showing little oak influence. Smooth and a bit lively in texture, it tastes clean and fresh.”

Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch Chardonnay, Russian River Valley 2018 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch Chardonnay, Russian River Valley 2018 750ML ($449.95) $299 special (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Virginie Boone – Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This is a 100% barrel-fermented wine from such stellar sites as Mill Station, Sullivan and Walker Hill. Lively, fresh and focused, it has great acidity and tension, a pleasing energy and minerality that boosts lovely flavors of green apple, Meyer lemon and mango, finishing with balanced richness.”

Eisele Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2018 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-3 Eisele Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2018 750ML ($349.95) $255 special (that’s only $85/bottle!)
James Suckling 97 points “Sliced apples and limes on the nose with grassy and chamomile notes. But then it turns to honeysuckle, chalk and minerals. Full-bodied with papaya, sliced-pear and green-pineapple flavors. Tight and fresh at the end. Crunchy acidity. Solid density. Energetic finish. Drink now or hold.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $98.88

Reds

Rotation Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi 2018 750ML ($17.95) $12.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Rotation Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi 2018 750ML ($189.95) $135 special (that’s only $11.25/bottle!)

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!

Galerie Wines ‘Latro’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 25 bottles in stock now
Case-6 Galerie Wines ‘Latro’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley 2015 750ML ($239.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 93 points “Deep purple-black colored, the 2015 Latro Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers up warm blueberry and plum notions with hints of black soil, stewed tea, menthol and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the fruits flavors completely fill the mouth, with blue fruit preserves and a lovely perfumed nature, featuring plush tannins and plenty of freshness defining the long finish. 425 cases produced.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Love California wine? We have over 75 different options from the Golden State in stock. Shop the entire selection, including staff favorites like Arnot-Roberts, Freemark Abbey, Pax and more, on our web store now.

Shrewd Buys from Burgundy

All $36 – $49

Whites

In Stock Now:

A cellar pick from an underrated village
Domaine Rollin Père et Fils Pernand-Vergelesses Blanc, Côte de Beaune 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Rosenthal Note “A consistently formidable wine that is sourced from four separate vineyard sites within the boundaries of Pernand. The average age of the vines (as of 2011) is approximately 35 years. A classic representation of the “taste” of Pernand with its intense minerality, hints of fennel and honey and broad-shouldered appearance. Aged on its lees for twelve months and bottled without filtration, it is particularly ageworthy. We buy five barrels per year (1500 bottles) for the US market.”

A standout from the 2018 vintage
Domaine Henri Boillot Bourgogne Chardonnay, Burgundy 2018 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 23 bottles in stock now
William Kelley, Wine Advocate “Guillaume Boillot began his harvest in Volnay on August 27, finishing up two weeks later, around September 10, in the Côte de Nuits. This is once again an exemplary portfolio of wines, all of which come warmly recommended, but there have been a couple of changes that merit notice. In 2018, Boillot told me that he continued his practice of fermenting his red wines in barrel but that he shortened the time of maceration to avoid picking up too much oak-derived sucrosity. And certainly, this year’s collection of red wines shows a more completely integrated framing of new oak than last year’s. Indeed, the reds are so good that it’s appropriate to remember that, until Boillot’s father reoriented the estate toward white wine, this was a domaine best known for its reds. Mention of white wine is the cue to mention another development—that Boillot used a vertical press for all his whites in 2018. He’s very happy with the result, and I agree that these 2018 whites possess impressive chalky structuring extract that sets them apart in a vintage that can be somewhat facile. Boillot added that in 2018 he used a touch less new wood and fewer barrels from François Frères, which—reviewing my notes—does seem to have made for a range of white wines less marked by the toasty, nutty signatures that were once quite prominent at this address.”

Reds

In Stock Now:

“A classic wine of this sector”
Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Rouges Gorges, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($41.95) $36 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Importer (Neal Rosenthal) Note “His wine is produced from two separate parcels: one on a hillside above the hamlet of Gamay and the other from a parcel between Saint Aubin and Chassagne Montrachet. The average age of the vines is 50 years (as of 2011). A classic wine of this sector with compelling notes of animal and wild berries. The elevage is about 18 months before bottling; again, very little new oak is used.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Fresh & refined
Fougeray de Beauclair Gevrey-Chambertin Les Seuvrées, Côte de Nuits 2013 750ML ($69.95) $39 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Gilbert & Gaillard 92 points “Beautiful ruby-red. Ripe, raspberry-dominant nose that reveals itself more after swirling. The palate is well-structured and firm yet lively. Lovely fruit expression with lots of refinement and freshness. An adolescent wine that needs lengthy cellaring.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Concentrated & complex
Domaine Collotte Fixin Les Crais de Chene, Côte de Nuits 2018 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “The Marsannay Crais de Chene is from 40+ year old vines on clay-limestone soil. The vines face east to gather the sweet morning sun. Due to the old age of the vines, the grapes are very small and concentrated with flavor. Completely destemmed, the wine is aged in barrel, 30% new, for 12 months.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

“A robust, cherry-flavored wine of strength and vigor”
Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet Mes Vieilles Vignes Rouge, Côte de Beaune 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Pillot exploits over a hectare of vineyards planted in 1960 to Pinot Noir at the village level. This is a robust, cherry-flavored wine of strength and vigor. A simple, satisfying red from a village that should be more recognized for the quality of its reds, this being a prime example.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

A “no-brainer” from a staff favorite producer
Pierrick Bouley Monthélie Aux Fournereaux, Côte de Beaune 2016 750ML ($47.95) $39 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Fine Wine Review 88-92 points “5.25 hl/ha here. The nose shows ripe crushed blackberry fruit. The mouth is dense and pure with good structure to support the wild blackberry fruit. If this wine were available in any quantity, it would be a no-brainer.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Classic red fruit and earthiness
Domaine Marc Colin et Fils Santenay Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Beaune 2017 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin – Vinous 89-91 points “The 2017 Santenay Vieilles Vignes Champs Claude, ages in 15% new oak, has a lovely, quite subtle seaweed scent that permeates the red berry aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine bead of acidity, taut and linear with admirable precision towards the finish. This is my pick of the domaine’s three reds this year. (DIAM closure)”
William Kelley – Wine Advocate “The 2017 Santenay Vieilles Vignes hails from a very old parcel and is deeper-pitched than Colin’s other reds, exhibiting notes of cherries, rich soil tones and peonies, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered palate that’s earthy and nicely concentrated.”

Domaine Rollin Père et Fils Aloxe-Corton, Côte de Beaune 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 5 bottles in stock now

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

“Opulent and utterly delicious”
Domaine Bernard Moreau et Fils Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Beaune 2013 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “It’s impossible to discuss Chassagne-Montrachet without mentioning the name Bernard Moreau. Year to year, this celebrated producer vinifies and bottles some of the purest, most thought-provoking wines of the appellation. Employing a style of wine making that might best be described as hands-off, Bernard produces Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that are sensual, opulent and utterly delicious.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

A terrific vintage drinking great today
Catherine et Claude Maréchal Savigny-lès-Beaune Vieilles Vignes, Côte de Beaune 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Importer note “Sourced from a 1.78 hectare plot of old-vine Pinot Noir (the oldest having been planted in 1955) planted to clay/silt/limestone soils from the lieu-dits of Les Peuillets, les Pimentiers, and les Liards. The grapes are destemmed and fermentation proceeds naturally with the solid materiel being punched down twice a day until fermentation completes. The wine is aged for 10 months in barrel, 10% of which is new.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Love red Burgundy? We have over 200 different options from the Côte de Nuits and over 90 different options from the Côte de Beaune in stock. Shop the entire selection, including famous names like Fourrier, Montille, Roumier and more, on our web store now.

Collector’s Corner

2015 Produttori Case Specials

“The Produttori del Barbaresco cooperative, founded in 1958, produces some of the top Barbarescos in the region, made in a traditional style… [A] factor in Produttori del Barbaresco’s success is its focus on Nebbiolo. The best grapes go into the single-vineyard riservas, only in top vintages. Nebbiolo grapes that don’t make the cut for the crus go into the Barbaresco, an excellent wine on its own, or may be declassified into the Nebbiolo Langhe. The nine vineyards all lie within the Barbaresco commune. The Produttori’s 64 farmer members are paid based on quality… ‘Every little effort to improve quality is rewarded,’ explains Vacca. The 2015 harvest delivered quality and distinctive characters from each vineyard.… The wines need three to five years to really hit their stride, but they have the tannins to age two decades or longer.” – Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator Insider

In Stock Now:

Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($99.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Produttori del Barbaresco Montefico, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($449.95) $336 special (that’s only $56/bottle!)
Kerin O’keefe-Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Cellar Selection. Balsamic aromas of camphor and new leather mingle with scorched earth and mature black-skinned berry on this full-bodied red. Mirroring the nose, the enveloping palate delivers ripe Marasca cherry, black raspberry and licorice alongside tightly knit, fine-grained tannins before a hazelnut close. Drink 2022–2030.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($99.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($449.95) $336 special (that’s only $56/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2015 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano rounds out this series of wines from Produttori del Barbaresco. Ample and resonant on the palate, the Montestefano shows all the natural breadth that is so typical of this site. On the palate, the Montestefano is rich and explosive, with tremendous depth and fabulous overall balance. Dark cherry, plum, espresso, licorice and spice build into the dark, sumptuous finish.”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 94 points “This is the last wine I tasted in this group of nine from Produttori del Barbaresco. The reason I placed the 2015 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano last is because it is usually considered to be the most powerful and determined in the flight. However, when you really get down to it, this vintage is more tight, streamlined and ethereal than expected. It is saving the best for later, and indeed, the wine is poised to evolve and open fully many years from now. There is a note of shyness here or restraint. Exactly 16,036 bottles were made, and this Riserva demands patience.

Produttori del Barbaresco Muncagota, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 31 bottles in stock now
Case-6 Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Muncagota’, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($449.95) $336 special (that’s only $56/bottle!)
Kerin O’keefe – Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Editor’s Choice. Rose, red berry and star anise aromas align with earthy whiffs of forest floor and new leather. The full-bodied, delicious palate doles out succulent Morello cherry, black raspberry, licorice and chopped mint set against a backbone of firm but refined tannins. It’s already gorgeous but will be even better with just a few more years of bottle age. Drink 2022–2030.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($449.95) $336 special (that’s only $56/bottle!)
Kerin O’keefe – Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Underbrush, wild herb and dark-skinned-berry aromas form the nose along with a whiff of camphor. On the firm, structured palate, tightly knit but noble tannins offset dried Marasca cherry, cranberry, orange zest and star anise. Tense and youthfully austere, it needs a few years to unwind. Drink 2022–2027.”

Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($449.95) $336 special (that’s only $56/bottle!)
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 96+ points “This wine usually falls somewhere in the middle of the Riserva continuum (starting with the most lithe and elegant wine and ending with the most powerful) presented by Produttori del Barbaresco in this knockout series of nine single-vineyard expressions. The 2015 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo is another personal favorite. This group of Ovello, Rio Sordo, Asili and Rabajà (that sweet spot of neighboring vineyard sites in Barbaresco) is especially profound in 2015, striking a careful balance between elegance against power. The Rio Sordo offers tight and sharp fruit complete with a little tannic pinch or crunch on the close. Production is 13,333 bottles.”

Love Barbaresco? We have over 45 different options in stock. Shop our entire selection on our web store now, including famous names like Giacosa and Roagna, as well as much more from Produttori.