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New K Vintners Releases Arriving This Fall 2018!

The wines of K Vintners need very little introduction, as the wines Charles Smith makes under this label are some of our most popular year in and out. The new releases arrive next month and they’re highly praised and highly allocated, as usual. Three wines in particular stand out for their combination of scores and price and we expect the Beautiful, Hidden, and Cattle King bottlings to go the fastest, so if those wines look appealing to you, jump on them post haste. It’s likely we’ll sell out of several other bottlings before they arrive, but those will go the fastest.

Shop the New K Vintners Release Here!

If you’re unfamiliar with the winery, know that Charles Smith fashions himself a bit of a rock star and he ought to—he used to manage them. Then, one day, on a motorcycle trip, he rode through Walla Walla and was struck by the majesty of the terrain and the vineyards. Within a few years, he had returned to open a winery.

His first vintage was 1999 and he produced a mere 300 cases of Syrah under his label ‘K Vintners.’ And the winery has grown by leaps and bounds since. By our count, K makes more than 15 wines, most of them single vineyard Syrah, and that doesn’t count the additional projects he’s involved in such as Substance and Sixto.

At this point, Charles Smith is one of the defining wine makers for what might be the modern Washington style. His wines are big, rich, and ripe but polished. They show distinct differences between the vineyards and always have a hint of that savory, bacony quality that Syrah can bring to the table like nothing else. The only thing we can complain about is that we can’t carry them more often.

Featured K Vintners Wines Arriving In October:

“a compelling Syrah that brooks no argument”-WA
Charles Smith K Vintners The Beautiful Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2015 750ML ($79.95) Buy Now: $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 98 points “Co-fermented with 3% Viognier, the 2015 Syrah The Beautiful is fabulous, bursting from the glass with exotic aromas of violets, blackberries, panforte, black olives and lychee nuts (fanciful though that mélange sounds). On the palate, it’s full-bodied, velvety and lavishly textural, cutting a broad swath across the palate, with a deep core of dark fruit and pungent savory nuance, concluding with a fine-grained, mouthwateringly sapid finish. It’s a compelling Syrah that brooks no argument.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “Co-fermented with 4% Viognier, the 2015 Syrah The Beautiful Powerline Vineyard was fermented with plenty of stems and brought up mostly in neutral oak. Candied violets, game, blackcurrants, and incense notes all emerge from this beautiful, seamless beauty. It has a rich, full-bodied profile on the palate as well as a great mid-palate, fine tannin, and nicely integrated acidity. This is another singular, layered, silky beauty from this team. Keep in mind, this comes from very young vines, so I suspect the best is yet to come here, which is saying something at this quality level.”

“a monumental wine from Washington”
Charles Smith K Vintners The Cattle King Syrah, Snipes Mountain 2015 750ML ($119.95) Buy Now: $89 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “Another off the charts effort is the 2015 Syrah Cattle King Upland Vineyard, which is also saturated purple/black in color. Possessing a more backward, yet insanely pure bouquet of crème de cassis, black fruits, smoked earth, graphite, and violets, it’s beautifully concentrated, has no hard edges, thrilling purity, and a gorgeous, layered, awesome, multi-dimensional style. It needs short-term cellaring but is a monumental wine from Washington.”

“It’s unquestionably one of the greatest Syrah from this team”
Charles Smith K Vintners The Hidden Syrah, Wahluke Slope 2015 750ML ($119.95) Buy Now: $89 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “One of the inkier, blacker colored wines in the lineup, the 2015 Syrah The Hidden is a profound Syrah and as good as it gets. Blackcurrants, smoked meats, graphite, and tapenade notes all emerge from this seriously badass, deep, rich, balanced beauty. Concentrated, thick, and huge, yet with no weight on the palate, building tannin, and incredible elegance, it needs to be tasted to be believed. It’s unquestionably one of the greatest Syrah from this team.”
Wine Advocate 96+ points “Inky and wild, the 2015 Syrah The Hidden Northridge Vineyard offers up a savory bouquet of grilled meat, licorice, blackberries, cherries and cracked black pepper. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, ample and rich, with an authoritatively chewy chassis of fine-grained tannins and bright, succulent acids. There’s a lot of fruit and power here but plenty of savory nuance to match it. This is even more massive than the Syrah Cattle King, but it’s more nuanced too. Given the structure, it will need some time in the cellar, so forget it for 4 or 5 years and follow it for the next 15.”

K Vintners Wines Arriving In October:

The Chateauneuf styled blend from K Vintners
Charles Smith K Vintners Charlotte Red Blend, Walla Walla Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $49 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2015 Charlotte Rhône Blend Rock Garden Vineyard checks in as a co-fermented blend of 43% Grenache, 24% Mourvèdre, 20% Syrah, and 13% Roussanne vinified in concrete aged in neutral puncheons and demi-muids. Its saturated ruby/plum color is followed by a rocking bouquet of smoked meats, dried herbs, spice-box and blackcurrant fruit. It’s medium to full-bodied, seamless, and silky on the palate, yet has savory tannin that’s going to keep it drinking beautifully for a decade.”

The Deal, indeed.
Charles Smith K Vintners The Deal Sundance Vineyard Syrah, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($49.95) Buy Now: $39 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “All from the Sundance Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope, the 2015 Syrah The Deal (100% Syrah, not destemmed and aged in 30% new puncheons) offers smoking notes of red and black fruits, black olive, smoked earth and a huge meatiness. Full-bodied, silky and seamless, with a rock, mineral, backward style.”

“With incredible purity, notable structure, and a lifted, perfumed style, it’s flat-out gorgeous”
Charles Smith K Vintners Klein Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2015 750ML ($89.95) Buy Now: $79 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “Almost always one of my favorite releases at this address, the 2015 Syrah Klein Vineyard is up with the crème de la crème in the vintage. Plums, candied cherries, violets, lavender, chocolate, and tons of dusty, earthy minerality all emerge from this exotic, singular, full-bodied, effort that has building tannin and a vibrant, rich, textured style. With incredible purity, notable structure, and a lifted, perfumed style, it’s flat-out gorgeous.”

The overlooked wine in the portfolio—this is great.
Charles Smith K Vintners ‘Ovide’ Jack’s Vineyard Cabernet – Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $49 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2015 Cabernet / Syrah Ovide Jack’s Vineyard is named after Charles’ father and comes from a site next to River Rock, both in the Rocks region of the Walla Walla Valley. A blend of 70/30 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, its deep ruby color is followed by a terrific bouquet of blackcurrants, tapenade, dried earth and dried herbs. It’s rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, with beautiful depth.”

The return of the high scoring favorite.
Charles Smith K Vintners Powerline Estate Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $49 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 98 points “Made from 100% Syrah, the 2015 Syrah Powerline Vineyard is much more backward, brooding, and mineral-laced, with sensational notes of blackcurrants, cassis, crushed rock, and tapenade. A true powerhouse on the palate, with terrific concentration, building tannin, and a great, great finish, it’s a singular, incredible wine that does everything right. Give bottles 2-3 years and enjoy over the following decade.”

“An elegant, pretty, pure expression of the Rocks Terroir”-JD
Substance ‘Cs’ Vineyard Collection Jack’s Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $44 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Vineyard offers up rich aromas of red and blackcurrants, espresso roast, burning embers and brown sugar. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, rich and lavish, with an ample core of fruit, melting tannins, loads of savory complexity and a sapid, saline finish. It’s a characterful Cabernet Sauvignon to follow for the coming decade.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Kirsch, caramelized red and black currants, spice, and cedar pencil notes all emerge from the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Vineyard. An elegant, pretty, pure expression of the Rocks Terroir, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s going to keep for a decade at least.”

“complex, elegant, singular Cabernet”-JD
Substance ‘Cs’ Vineyard Collection Powerline Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $44 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “Wafting from the glass with notes of rich red and black fruits, cigar tobacco, petroleum jelly and spice, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Powerline Vineyard is the richest, most lavish and velvety bottling in the Wines of Substance portfolio, cutting a broad swath across the palate. Full-bodied, ample and generous, it boasts plenty of savory complexity and concludes with a dry, saline finish. Dramatic and characterful, it’s immensely appealing. Sadly, at 239 cases, it’s the smallest of all these cuvées too.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Coming from mostly 169 and 2 clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Powerline Vineyard offers a deep ruby color as well as complex notes of ripe black cherries, currants, leafy herbs, and tapenade. It’s rich, full-bodied, silky, and seamless, with fine, polished tannin and a great finish. Drink this complex, elegant, singular Cabernet over the coming decade or more.”

Substance ‘Cs’ Vineyard Collection Stoneridge Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $44 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stoneridge Vineyard sports a medium ruby, mostly opaque color to go with classic graphite, dried earth, tobacco leaf and currant fruit. It’s full-bodied, silky, pure and polished, with a hint of chocolate and oak on the finish. With a seamless texture, fine tannin and a great, great texture, drink it over the coming 10-15 years.”

Arterberry Maresh Stars: September 2018

With Two 96 Point Scores

In the New Issue of the Wine Advocate

We’ve long supported and loved the wines that Jim Arterberry makes under the Arterberry-Maresh (pronounced “marsh”) label, so it was no surprise to see him get a lot of critical praise in the new issue of the Wine Advocate. These are some incredible wines, made in a understated style from exceptional, often extremely old, vineyards. In the words of WA reviewer Erin Brooks:

“The 2016 Pinot Noirs from Arterberry Maresh offer amazing layers of sweet, precise fruits, exotic spices and earth—everything you want from great Pinot Noir. They’re concentrated and jam-packed with flavor while still maintaining excellent grainy tannic structure and very juicy acidity, not to mention they age beautifully. Jim Maresh is also crafting some beautiful Chardonnays, some of the most exciting Chardonnays I have tasted from Oregon. Jim attributes much of his success to his fruit, which comes from old vines planted by his family in the early 1970s and are entirely dry farmed.”

Available Now:

Arterberry Maresh Pinot Noir ‘Maresh Vineyard’, Dundee Hills, 2016 750ML ($79.95) Buy Now: $69 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “This wine comes from Pinot Noir vines planted in the early 1970s. Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2016 Pinot Noir Maresh Vineyard is scented of lilac, violet, pure strawberry jam, rhubarb and cranberry sauce with layers of warm earth, red and black licorice and exotic spice. Medium to full-bodied, it floods the mouth with warm red cherries, strawberry and rhubarb jam notions and wonderful accents of dried violets, earth, licorice and spice. It has very, very fine, grainy tannins and juicy mouthwatering acidity, finishing epically long with spiced warm red fruits. This just sings! 371 cases produced.”

Arterberry Maresh ‘Old Vines’ Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2016 750ML ($49.95) Buy Now: $41.90 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “This is the first non-vineyard designate made by Jim Maresh. Pale to medium ruby in color, the 2016 Pinot Noir Old Vines has a lovely pure nose of pink peppercorn, dried black tea leaves, red and black licorice and violets with dried cranberries, red cherries and layers and layers of spice. Medium to full-bodied, it has amazing concentration of flavor in the mouth, blossoming out to pure red fruits and spicy layers, with cinnamon and autumn leaves accents, very fine-grained tannins and juicy acidity, finishing very, very long with tons of earth-laced fruit. Wow! 1,040 cases produced.”

A Trove of Tuscan Treasure

August 30th, 2018

New Releases From Felsina and La Gerla

Arriving in September

Recent vintages have been kind to Tuscany. 2012, 2013 and now 2015 have all been marked successes, delivering wines of opulence and class. Whether you prefer Brunello, Chianti or Super-Tuscans, there are a multitude of brilliant wines across the region that all deserve your attention. We have a set of classic producers we love and new releases from two of them arrive in September.

La Gerla makes fantastic Brunello in a traditional (yet approachable) way. The wines always have striking purity of fruit and elegant structures but are free of the sweet tinted oak that masks many “easy drinking” Brunellos. The pricing is on-point and the combination of all of the above has turned the estate into a Vinopolis staple. We have their epic 2013 Brunello and 2012 Riserva arriving this fall and both are some of the best wines ever produced by the estate.

We also have some of the higher end 2015’s arriving from Felsina—a winery that needs no more introduction at this point. They’re reference point Chiantis and the lower-tier wines from 2015 were stunning, so the Rancia and Fontalloro should be some of the best in years. Both the Rancia and Fontalloro are 100% Sangiovese, but the latter is more of a modern, Brunello/Super Tuscan-styled wine. These are wines to collect, savor and treasure.

Arriving ETA September:

La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $45 pre-arrival special
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 375ML ($29.95) Buy Now: $26 pre-arrival special
La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 1.5L ($119.95) Buy Now: $99 pre-arrival special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant, balanced and bright. The pretty luminosity of the wine’s appearance helps to underline this positive impression. The bouquet is nuanced and layered with dried fruit aromas that segue to spice, tar and balsam herb. You get sassy aromas of licorice, tar and cola on the close.”
Ian D’agata-Vinous 93+ points “Bright red. Pure and very flinty nuances complement aromas and flavors of strawberry-rhubarb and wild berries on the nose and palate. Dense and juicy and boasting a focused, penetrating mouthfeel, this finishes long and clean with a very strong note of licorice. Best classico Brunello from La Gerla in some time.”

La Gerla Riserva gli Angeli, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 750ML ($99.95) Buy Now: $69 pre-arrival special
La Gerla Riserva gli Angeli, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 1.5L ($219.95) Buy Now: $159 pre-arrival special
La Gerla Riserva gli Angeli, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 3L ($499.95) Buy Now: $319 pre-arrival special
Ian D’agata-Vinous 95 points “Bright medium ruby. Very clean and fresh aromas and flavors of red currant, cherry pit, flowers and blood orange jelly. Bright, juicy and very light on its feet, offering superb vinosity and clarity of flavor, this conveys an impression of real underlying density and a multilayered mouthfeel. A knockout wine of outstanding energy and class, finishing with polished tannins, uncanny sweetness and lovely subtle persistence, not to mention outstanding balance (it hides its 14.5% alcohol very well).”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Here is a dense and meaty Tusan red that flaunts its immediate power, structure and intensity. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva gli Angeli is robust and deep thanks to a generous offering of dark fruit, spice and tar-like aromas. Fruit is carefully selected for this wine, and the grapes are fermented in stainless steel. Post fermentation, the wine goes into large Slavonian oak casks for four years. The finish is soft and supple with sweet berry flavors. This wine has made an impressive jump forward in this vintage.”

Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2015 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $45 pre-arrival special
Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2015 1.5L ($139.95) Buy Now: $115 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94-97 points “The 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia is one of the most finessed young Rancias I have ever tasted. Silky, aromatically precise and nuanced to the core, the 2015 is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. This is an impressive showing.”

Felsina Berardenga Fontalloro Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($69.95) Buy Now: $49 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92-95 points “Another impressive 2015, the Fontalloro is a wine of breadth, power and persistence. Today, the oak is still not fully integrated, but there is more than enough depth and resonance in the fruit to make me think that will happen. I can’t wait to taste the 2015 from bottle.”

Vinopolis Thursday Special 7-19-18

In Today’s Newsletter:

Special New Review Edition

Arriving Tomorrow: Orin Swift’s Sensation
Two New Reviews from Grapelive and James Suckling
Josh Raynolds Raves About 2016 Chateauneuf
Two Treats from Wine Spectator Advance

Arriving Tomorrow

Orin Swift’s Top Catalan Sensation

At the Best Price in the Country

Orin Swift makes a bit of wine in southwestern France—big powerful bottles that are probably even better than the wines produced in California. They come from old, old vines in the Cotes Catalanes and we’re getting the top wine from that project, Pharoan, tomorrow. This is a wine not to be missed for lovers of the producer and a mere 18 bottles arrive tomorrow.

Orin Swift Department D 66 ‘Pharaon’, IGP Cotes Catalanes 2014 ($189.95) $136 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “The top wine is the 2014 IGP Cotes Catalanes Pharaon, and it’s a barrel selection that ended up being an even split of Grenache and Syrah that was aged in 75% new French oak. While the cooler, late vintage didn’t favor Grenache, Richard commented that Syrah excelled, hence the larger portion of Syrah in the blend than normal. About as sexy and textured as they come in the vintage, this beautiful 2014 offers lots of crème de cassis, black raspberry, chocolate and peppery nuances to go with a full-bodied, luxuriously textured, hedonistic slant on the palate. Despite the ripeness level, it stays fresh and lively, with notable underlying structure. Hats off to the team here. This beauty will cruise for another decade.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $160
The average price is $170

New Reviews from Grapelive and James Suckling

For Two Vinopolis Favorites

Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas ‘Les Souteyrades Vieilles Vignes’, Rhone 2015 750ML ($41.95) $36 special
Grapelive 93+ points “One of the Southern Rhone’s most trusted traditional producers, Joel Saurel’s Domaine Saint-Damien …has many old vine cuvees as well as a lovely Cotes du Rhone bottling as well as a Gigondas Rosé that is high demand. The Vieilles Vignes Gigondas lieu-dit “Souteyrades” which sits on a small hill is a blend of 80% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre from a plot of 67 year old Grenache Noir vines planted in 1948 and 38 year old Mourvèdre on an outcropping of pure grey clay soil with a few stones scattered over, it makes for deep fruit intensity and concentration, I believe this is their most powerful cuvee and this is extremely apparent in this 2015, a rich and ripe vintage. The “Les Souteyrades” vinification is old school with maceration lasting for 6 to 8 weeks in concrete vats before moving to large oak foudres for about a year all from organic grapes that are carefully hand picked and sorted. This earthy and extremely dark Gigondas starts with melted black licorice, leather and deep berries, it’s seriously dense and concentrated with lots of heady weight and texture, gaining a ripe tone with extended air, and wonderful length showing layers of black raspberry, boysenberry, plum and grenadine on the full bodied palate along with that anise, floral incense, baked cherry, chalky stones and pepper spices. This Gigondas has a more of an old school Chateauneuf du Pape like presence in the glass, it’s still way too young to be rewarding yet, but decanting and swirling really helps, it will really unfold in the coming years, be patient, a few bottles hiding for a decade will be wonderful treasures, best from 2022 to 2030.”

Petrolo Galatrona Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany 2015 750ML ($99.95) $79 special
James Suckling 99 points “Terrific aromas of violets, roses and raspberries with hints of strawberries and brown sugar. Full body. Phenomenal layers of focused fruit and polished velvety tannins. This is the Galatrona that everyone has been waiting for. It’s the vintage that shows depth and power yet wonderful finesse and focus. Best ever. Drink from 2023 but already electrifying.”

Josh Raynolds Raves About

2016 Chateauneuf du Pape

“Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s monumental 2015 vintage was a tough act to follow, but 2016 was up to the challenge. In fact, in many cases the wines from this uniformly outstanding warm year actually outclass – or at least outmuscle – their older siblings.

“If exuberant ripe fruit, harmonious tannins and an overall impression of generosity and lushness are what you’re after in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, then 2016 has plenty to offer. But the best wines also display real energy, making this a standout vintage.

“References to other great years such as 2010 and 2001 abounded during my visits with producers in mid-April, and while I concur with the comparison to 2001, the ‘16s show more flesh, more abundant fruitiness and rounder tannins than the 2010s did at a similar stage. At the same time, I believe that the wines will often be superior to those from recent hot years like 2009, 2007 and 2003 because of their greater freshness…. Best of all, the tannins in the 2016s tend to be round and pliant and they already harmonize nicely with the wines’ abundant fruit rather than enclosing it, as was – and still is – the case with some 2010s and, especially, the 2005s…

“What sets 2016 apart from most hot years is that the region enjoyed cool nights during the crucial summer months, which helped the grapes retain acidity and prevented sugar levels from going completely off the rails. Growing conditions were ideal throughout the season, beginning with a warm, dry spring and continuing through a dry, warm-to-hot summer with those aforementioned cool nights.” – Josh Raynolds, Vinous

Arriving ETA October:

Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 750ML ($149.95) $128 pre-arrival special, ETA September
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95-97 points “Vivid ruby-red. Ripe, intensely perfumed raspberry, blackberry, cherry pit and pungent flowers on the highly expressive, mineral- and spice-tinged nose. Juicy and seamless in texture, offering palate-staining yet graceful red and blue fruit liqueur and floral pastille flavors and an exotic suggestion of candied fennel. Delivers flavor intensity without excess weight and shows no rough edges. Closes sweet, sappy and extremely long, with smooth, slow-building tannins framing lingering red fruit preserve and floral notes.”

Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape Sanctus Sanctorum, Rhone 2016 1.5L ($999.95) $699 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95-97 points “(raised in a single, new demi-muid) Brilliant ruby-red. A hugely aromatic, expansive bouquet displays an array of red fruit, floral and exotic spice aromas, and subtle vanilla, garrigue and mineral notes build steadily as the wine stretches out. Utterly stains the palate with sweet, mineral-laced Chambord, lavender pastille, spicecake and mocha flavors that show unlikely vivacity. The combination of richness and finesse here is quite something. Finishes extremely long and sweet, with resonating florality and smooth tannins making a cameo appearance.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Clos Saint-Jean Deus-Ex Machina Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-96 points “Deep bright-rimmed ruby. Primary dark berry liqueur, cherry, licorice and violet aromas are complemented by an exotic suggestion of smoky Indian spices. Broad and fleshy in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated blackberry, boysenberry and bitter cherry flavors along with sweet cola and floral pastille flourishes. Slowly becomes firmer with air and finishes with outstanding clarity, building tannins and strong, spicy persistence.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Combe des Fous, Rhone 2016 750ML ($149.95) $109 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93-95 points “Bright violet. Highly expressive red berry preserve and cherry cola aromas are complicated by hints of candied lavender, licorice and smoky minerals. Juicy raspberry and spicecake flavors show superb depth and appealing sweetness, and a smoky mineral undertone builds steadily with air. Offers a compelling blend of power and vivacity and finishes with gentle tannic grip, a strong suggestion of Chambord and excellent persistence.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Bright ruby-red. Pungent raspberry, cherry and garrigue scents are complemented by smoky mineral and licorice accents. Silky and concentrated, offering juicy red berry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors and a touch of candied lavender. Shows very good depth, focus and solid thrust on a youthfully tannic finish that features a lingering cracked pepper note.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine de la Janasse Cuvee Vieilles Vignes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-96 points “Bright violet. Heady aromas of mineral-tinged dark berry liqueur, incense and cola, complicated by a suave floral nuance. Smoky and seamless on the palate, offering powerful, alluringly sweet black and blue fruit, spicecake, mocha and candied licorice flavors braced by juicy acidity. Closes with outstanding clarity, smooth tannins and floral-dominated persistence, leaving sexy floral pastille and star anise notes behind.”

Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Chaupin, Rhone 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93-95 points “Lurid ruby. An expansive, complex bouquet evokes cherry liqueur, blueberry, incense and candied flowers, along with a smoky mineral nuance that builds in the background. Shows outstanding depth and energy to the red and blue fruit and spicecake flavors, which become more lively and gain sweetness with aeration. Closes on a suave lavender pastille note, offering rounded, even tannins and emphatic, blue-fruit-driven persistence.”

Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf-du-Pape (Cuvee Tradition), Rhone 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91-93 points “Vivid ruby-red. Intensely perfumed, mineral-accented aromas of ripe red and blue fruits, cola and incense expand with aeration. Palate-staining raspberry and boysenberry flavors are joined by an exotic floral pastille quality that builds steadily on the back half. Rich but bright and energetic as well, showing impressive finishing clarity and smooth tannins that add shape and closing grip.”

M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Barbe Rac, Rhone 2016 750ML ($119.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-96 points ” (raised in concrete tanks) Bright ruby-red. Sexy, expansive red berry preserve and floral pastille aromas are complicated by suggestions of cinnamon and star anise. Juicy, focused and pure in the mouth, displaying impressive verve to the mineral-laced raspberry and cherry compote flavors, which deepen slowly on the back half. The mineral element adds lift and cut to a strikingly long, gently tannic finish that leaves spicecake and lavender notes behind.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Croix de Bois Rouge, Rhone 2016 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 94-96 points ” (all concrete) Lurid ruby-red. Intensely perfumed raspberry liqueur, Asian spice and floral pastille aromas are complemented by hints of musky rhubarb and peppery spices. Palate-staining, densely packed red fruit and spicecake flavors show impressive power as well as vivacity thanks to a core of juicy acidity. The floral quality repeats emphatically on an extremely long, sappy finish that’s shaped by smooth, even tannins.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Arriving ETA Late Fall:

Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 750ML ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2016 1.5L ($169.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93-95 points “Deep bright-rimmed ruby. Cassis, cherry pit, licorice, garrigue and an intense mineral overtone on the deeply perfumed nose. Intense, palate-staining bitter cherry and dark berry flavors show outstanding depth and become sweeter and more lively with aeration. Picks up a spicy quality on the youthfully tannic finish, which shows superb clarity and dark-fruit-driven persistence.”

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

Wine Spectator Advance

Two Top Picks, Reviewed Early

Arriving Later this Month:

Massican Annia White, Napa Valley 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “A complex and inviting white, showing intricate nuances of roasting almonds, matcha, honeysuckle and orange zest flavors, mingling with supple, juicy Asian pear, tangerine and ripe melon notes. The smooth texture and thread of acidity just add to the appeal. Ribolla Gialla, Tocai Friulano and Chardonnay.”
Winery note “Grapes: ribolla gialla – 55%, tocai friulano – 39%, chardonnay – 6%. The 2017 vintage in napa will always be remembered because of the wildfires that began on the evening of Sunday, October 8. We are very fortunate that not only were all our grapes harvested before the fires broke out but also that our vineyards were spared from harm; however, we cannot say that for all our neighbors who have been impacted by this tragedy. Our ANNIA in this vintage shows the quiet side of her persona an opportunity to remain thoughtful and thankful for all the good graces we receive not only this year but every year.”

Piancornello Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 95 points “($85) A beam of cherry flavor sets the pace for this succulent red that’s firmly structured and taut, with graphite, tobacco and bark notes adding interest. The dense profile remains long and balanced on the finish. Best from 2020 through 2038.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

July Sale Recap

See the complete list of wines on our July Clearance Sale below or click to shop the sale on our web store!

Shop the Sale on our Web Store!

Thanks for reading!

Weekend VinopolPick 3-31-18

In Today’s Newsletter:

A Lionnet Vertical: Hot Stuff from the Northern Rhone
2016 Marcus Molitor – First Offer, Incredible Wines
New April Sale Wines, Including: Jamet, Huet, Donnhoff and More!
You Better, You Better, You Betz: New Releases

New Arrivals Including:
New Rosé, Quilceda Creek, No Girls,
Louis Latour, Lapierre and More!

Last Chance at March Sale Prices on
Montevertine, Heymann-Loewenstein, Montraponi and 61 Others!

Featured New Arrival:

A Vertical of Lionnet Cornas

The New “It” Vigneron of the Northern Rhone

There’s no two ways around it—Cornas has become the hot AOC in the Northern Rhone, perhaps in France. Allemand, Clape, Ooka, Paris, etc—prices have been going up, demand has been going up, and wines are in stock for shorter and shorter periods of time. Against that backdrop, we were offered a vertical of Domaine Lionnet’s Cornas and couldn’t say yes fast enough. The wines are from Rosenthal, the official importer, and are in great condition. For some of you, we’ve already said enough—you can find the wines on our website (click here). If you want a little more info on the domaine, no fear, read on.

Lionnet is basically the Levet of Cornas—the heir to Robert Michel, stylistically. In fact, it was Levet that referred Lionnet to Neal Rosenthal, which tells you all you need to know. These are old-school Cornas, made with 100% whole clusters, fermented in cement vats and then aged in older, large barrels. No new wood, no pretension, and just one wine—the domaine only owns 2.2 hectares! We’re beyond excited to have these in the shop, though quantities are limited. If you’d like to purchase these wines (and secure what you want while we still have multiple vintages/2015 available), just click here to see them on our website or reply to this email.

Newly Arrived Wines from Domaine Lionnet:

Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee, Rhone 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special
Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee, Rhone 2015 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2015 Cornas Terre Brûlée comes from a total of seven different lieux-dits throughout the appellation (all are granite soils) and was vinified in concrete tanks before spending 18 months in older demi-muids. It offers a classic, traditional feel in its blackberry, peppery herbs, bouquet garni and violets aromas and flavors. With full-bodied richness, nicely integrated acidity and superb concentration, it’s just another sensational Cornas from this vintage. Bravo to Corinne Lionnet and Ludovic Izerable!”
Grapelive 95+ points “One of my favorite wines and producers, Domaine Lionnet makes an incredible and authentic Cornas that never disappoints this Syrah geek. It’s always a nervy, stemmy wine, but with gracious fruit and textures to balance everything out. I find these wines to have a raw sex appeal and with a dark earthy seduction. In terms of pure Syrah it rarely gets much better than this! Corinne Lionnet’s family has been here and wine growing since 1575…. Ludovic’s style is all about nature, with 100% whole cluster, 100% stems and all organic farming. He ferments native and uses long maceration (three weeks) in cement vats before malos in large cask, all well used and never new, with lengthy elevate/aging. There are never any additions or adjustments with just a tiny amount of sulfur. Each parcel is between 40 and 100 years old, including four great lieu-dit sites: Chaillot, Combes, Brugeres and Mazards. [Each is] hand-picked and fermented individually. Each of these Crus add to the whole and give this wine its special personality and chemistry. Domaine Lionnet’s attention to detail really shows in the bottle.… This deep garnet hued Cornas lingers on and on recalling the violet and edgy stems for minutes in the aftertaste. This is a ridiculously great terroir-driven wine with stellar potential in 3 to 5 years. If you love Jamet or Allemand you’ll want this wine, and at almost half their price this wine is a rockstar value.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “A terrific wine, the 2015 Cornas Terre Brulee combines smoky notes of grilled plums and meat in a full-bodied format. It’s richly tannic and velvety at the same time, with a finish that’s simultaneously drying (from tannins) and mouthwatering (from juicy fruit). Farmed organically, vinified with stems in concrete and aged in used, large-format oak, Cornas doesn’t get more authentic (or better) than this!”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $63

Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee, Rhone 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Inky ruby. Mineral-accented black raspberry, violet and a hint of game on the high-toned nose. Takes a darker turn in the mouth, offering boysenberry and cherry flavors along with smoky bacon and cracked pepper nuances. Finishes sweet, smoky and very long, displaying repeating mineral and spice qualities and youthful tannic grip.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee, Rhone 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Dark in profile, with a tarry edge to the core of steeped black currant and fig fruit, along with smoldering tobacco, licorice root and singed alder on the finish. Maintains ample grip and drive throughout. Best from 2018 through 2028. 200 cases imported.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee, Rhone 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “Made by Ludovic Izerable and crazy good, the 2012 Cornas Terre Brûlée is a stunning Cornas that spent 18 months in 2- to 8-year-old barrels and demi-muid. Offering up notes of black raspberry, cassis, currants, ground herbs, spice and insane minerality, it hits the palate with a full-bodied, rich, yet taunt and pure texture that carries vibrant acidity and length. Still reserved and backwards, give this beauty another 3-4 years and enjoy bottles through 2027+.”

This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!

First Offer:The Incredible 2016’s from Marcus Molitor

There may be no more ambitious winemaker in the world than Marcus Molitor. His determination and drive to make the best possible wines has made him a towering figure in the Mosel, with an impressive, modern winery and holdings in almost every important vineyard in the region. This drive also means there are a lot of different bottlings—Molitor believes that every single sub-parcel and selective pick should be vinified to its utmost potential.

This is the essence of the brilliance of Marcus Molitor. Most winemakers would pick once or twice (or three times) in a vineyard and vinify many lots together—it’s easier and the wines are good. Molitor, though, asks what each parcel and pick would be like on its own—treated as if it were a wine of distinction rather than a blending component. This is a lot of extra work and requires time and space that most winemakers would rather not spend, but the result is a dizzying number of bottlings that all strive toward perfection.

The critical praise backs this up—Marcus Molitor’s wines are some of the most lauded in the world. Whether white capsule (dry), green capsule (off-dry), or gold capsule (fruity to nobly sweet), he manages to produce wines that captivate and astound. 2016 is among the best vintages he’s produced—possibly better across the board than the lauded 15’s. They arrive in September and last year most of the top wines sold out before they arrived. We expect the same this year so just click here to see a list of all the wines on the way.

Some Highlights,

Arriving ETA September:

Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese*** Feinherb (Green Capsule), Mosel 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 99 points “From over 100-year-old vines and fermented in an eight-year-old 2,000-liter Stockinger vat and 15% in small oak barrels, the 2016 Riesling Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese *** (Green Capsule) offers a deep and concentrated, terribly fresh and oaky nose. Round and lush on the palate, this is a very elegant, intense and refined Sonnenuhr with super lush fruit, very fine tannins and ripe acidity. Molitor is extremely proud of all his Sonnenuhr bottlings, but they demand a much longer period of bottle aging. The richness (which is still elegant and fine) and the oak flavors (which are discreet but present) will surely integrate, so the wine has huge potential. Bottled in September 2017; tasted March 2018.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese** Trocken (White Capsule), Mosel 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 98 points “The 2016 Riesling Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (White Capsule) is a different style of Mosel Riesling compared to the other 2016 Auslesen. Fermented in different oak vats, from barrique size to 3,000-liter vats (including one big Stockinger vat that was new), this is clear, ripe and complex on the nose, with toasty as well as smoky-mineral notes framing the perfectly ripe and elegant stone fruit aromas. Full-bodied, round and complex, with gorgeous sweetness and mind-blowing silkiness and balance, this is a rich yet fine, elegant, highly complex and persistent Auslese from Markus’s most important single vineyard. The 2016 is concentrated yet very clear and elegant, revealing very fine tannins and a very long, complex finish. It already drinks with great wonder, and this wine will even gain more complexity though it’s already hard to resist.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese*** (Gold Capsule), Mosel 2016 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2016 Riesling Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) indicates gorgeously ripe and lush Riesling fruit with very fine flinty slate aromas that add freshness, finesse and complexity. This nose is incredibly pure and precise and doesn’t indicate any botrytis. The palate is highly elegant and fine but, at the same time, lush and salty with a highly delicate but persistent structure. The finish is mouthwatering and enormously stimulating. This Wehlener Sonnenuhr is another extremely digestible yet complex Auslese that you can drink in large amounts without getting bored or tired. The acidity is so delicate and fine here and lets this gold-capsuled Auslese dance over your palate. I just love it. Bottled September 2017; tasted March 2018.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese Trocken (White Capsule), Mosel 2016 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “The 2016 Riesling Ürziger Würzgarten Spätlese (White Capsule) offers a deep and complex yet delicate and discreetly flinty nose with a very fine, fresh and bright citrus and stony aroma. Full-bodied, intense and lush on the palate, this is a silky textured, highly elegant and superbly balanced Würzgarten with an intense and powerful, very mineral and salty finish. The wine reveals great complexity along with serious grip and tensioned length but keeps its great finesse. Fermented and aged in large oak barrels until the bottling in September 2017. Tasted March 2018.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Want to see all 33 of the 2016’s from Marcus Molitor for sale now? Just click here to head to a list on our website or look at the spreadsheet below:

New to the April Sale

Jean-Luc Jamet, one of two brothers behind the legendary Domaine Jamet, left in 2013 to start his own winery. He took half of the Jamet Cote-Rotie holdings with him and has made his own wine ever since. We’ve got his first vintage in the store and are adding it to the April Clearance Sale now. This is a fantastic Cote Rotie from a great Northern Rhone vintage (it seems as though the Northern Rhone tends to correspond with Piemonte in that respect). What makes it even better is the price—a full $20 cheaper per bottle ’til the end of April (or the wine sells out).

Jean-Luc Jamet Cote Rotie ‘Terrasses’, Rhone 2013 750ML ($119.95) Was $99, Now $79 Clearance Price
VinopolNote: Made from vineyards originally belonging to Domaine Jamet (and kept in his split from the domaine). The 2013 is the first vintage for Jean-Luc Jamet and a promising start that shows the class of the terroir he’s working with.

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $84.99
The average price is $92

Also New to the April Sale:Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Clos du Bourg’ Moelleux, Loire 2016 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $49 Clearance Price
Wine Spectator 97 points “A stunner, with beautiful pear, green fig, yellow apple and quince notes that are creamy and flirtatiously sweet, yet seamless and refined in feel. The extremely long finish lets honeysuckle and verbena notes dance throughout, with a light echo of white ginger at the very end. Best from 2020 through 2040.”Domaine Huet Vouvray ‘Le Haut Lieu’ Moelleux, Loire 2016 750ML ($59.95) Was $46, Now $39 Clearance Price
Wine Spectator 95 points “Gorgeous crystallized ginger, dried quince, glazed pear and warm persimmon notes are seamlessly interwoven here, gliding through a lengthy finish that picks up a lilting green tea accent. Frankly off-dry but wonderfully pure. Drink now through 2035.”

Piancornello Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $39 Clearance Price
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 92 points “Darkly saturated and rich in personality, the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino offers an immediate and approachable expression of the grape. Your palate yearns for succulent bistecca alla fiorentina with roasted potatoes on the side—all of it drenched in olive oil. That’s because the wine is so upfront and soft even at this young stage in its evolution. This Brunello is soft in texture and mouthfeel, yet it offers loads of chewy fruit and enough bright acidity to pair with whatever you have on the menu tonight.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Weingut Donnhoff Kreuznacher Krotenpfuhl Riesling Kabinett, Nahe 2015 750 ($27.95) Was $20.90, Now $19 Clearance Price
“The 2015 Kreuznacher Krötenpfuhl Riesling Kabinett has a “cooler acidity” than the Kahlenberg, says Helmut Dönnhoff, so he considers it as the better vineyard to produce a fruity Riesling with more residual sugar. The wine has a clear and open nose of ripe apples along with some flinty aromas. On the palate, the wine is very clear and piquant, but also generous in its precise, elegant fruit. The finish has a certain intensity and minerality, and this will come out even clearer in two or more years.” Wine Advocate
Terry Theise note “Savory, caroby, not so much “long” as unending; brown bread and smoke and salts.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Beerenauslese, Nahe 2015 375ML ($179.95) Was $138, Now $125 Clearance Price
John Gilman 95 points “The 2015 Hermannshöhle BA is still a baby and was in its primary stage of development, but this will clearly be a great wine as well. The bouquet offers up scents of baked apple, tangerine, a touch of papaya, gentle smokiness, orange oil and honey. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, bright and very, very deep, with great focus and grip, a very long, perfectly balanced and nascently complex finish. This will of course be approachable from the moment that it is released, but I would strongly suggest giving it at least four or five years in the cellar to allow it to start to really blossom and show some of the secondary layers of complexity that will come with bottle age. 2016-2075+.”Ewald Moseler Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2016 750ML ($19.95) Was $16, Now $14 Clearance Price
VinopolNote: A barrel selection from the iron-rich slatey soils of the Erdener Treppchen Vineyard in the Mosel.

This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!

Want to see all the wines on sale right now? Just click here to see a list on our website and read on for a few more highlights from the soon-to-expire March Sale!

New Releases from the Washington BenchmarkYou Better, You Better, You Betz

“One of the reference-point estates in Washington is unquestionably Betz Family Winery. Bob Betz still takes a leading role, but the day to day winemaking is more and more being taken up by Louis Skinner, who’s taken up the helm brilliantly. In 2015, the estate made use of an optical sorter to eliminate raisins, and the wines show more freshness and focus, with a touch less voluptuousness and breadth. Anyone interested in Washington State wines, or just high-quality wines for that matter, owe it to themselves to try these!”– Jeb Dunnuck

Just Arrived:

Betz Family Winery Clos de Betz, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “Possessing even more Merlot than the 2014, the 2015 Clos de Betz is 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot brought up in a mix of barrels. Its chocolatey plum, tobacco leaf, licorice and damp earth aromatics give way to a medium to full-bodied, polished, pretty style on the palate that shines for its elegance and freshness. One of the reference-point estates in Washington is unquestionably Betz Family Winery. Bob Betz still takes a leading role, but the day to day winemaking is more and more being taken up by Louis Skinner, who’s taken up the helm brilliantly. In 2015, the estate made use of an optical sorter to eliminate raisins, and the wines show more freshness and focus, with a touch less voluptuousness and breadth. The 2014s were sensational across the board. Anyone interested in Washington State wines, or just high-quality wines for that matter, owe it to themselves to try these!”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Betz Family Winery Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($89.95) $75 special
Wine Advocate 93-96 points “Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is a head turner offering a detailed, mineral-laced, full-bodied, fresh and elegant style that doesn’t lack for oomph or structure. It has classic notes of cassis, smoked tobacco and graphite, with nicely integrated acidity and a great, great finish. The team commented that the use of the optical sorter really helped with this vintage.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

New Arrivals

New Arrivals: Rosé

Chateau la Mascaronne Cotes de Provence Quat’Saisons Rose, Provence 2017 750ML ($24.95) $19 special
VinopolNote: Our most popular rose is back! La Mascaronne is the true Miraval. Yes Miraval, that delightful Provence Rose that tasted far above its price-point; until the winery was acquired by a certain Hollywood couple and the new management proceeded to stick the wine in a bulbous bottle and hike the price up and up. But we have a secret to share with you. The

original owner of Miraval kept his best vineyard, and that is La Mascarrone.

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Isle Saint Pierre Rose, IGP Bouches-du-Rhone 2017 750ML ($14.95) $10.90 special

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

Casa Rossa Rose, IGP Ile de Beaute 2017 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special

Domaine Vetriccie Rose, Corse 2017 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Winery Note “50% Nielluciu, 35% Scuaccarellu, 15% Grenache. Domaine Vetriccie is located in Aghione, in the heart of the Coriscan vineyards. This Domain is manage with respect of Corsican nature and tradition. This rose is a fresh and delicious wine.”

New Arrivals: Washington

No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Grenache, Walla Walla Valley 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “Leading off the 2014s, the 2014 Grenache la Paciencia Vineyard was partially destemmed, vinified in concrete tanks and aged all in neutral foudres and 600-liter barrels. It’s a totally gorgeous red that gives up complex notes of rose petals, black cherries, olive brine, underbrush and ample salinity that literally makes you salivate. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and yet ethereally textured and elegance, give bottles a couple years and enjoy through 2026.”No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2014 750ML ($149.95) $138 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2014 Syrah la Paciencia Vineyard was also vinified in concrete and aged in neutral barrels. Its deep ruby/mostly opaque color is followed by a deep, slightly closed bouquet of smoked black fruits, cured meats, black olive and violet/floral aromas and flavors. Like all of the wines here, it’s seamless and elegant on the palate, yet has plenty of authority, depth and length.”No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley 2014 750ML ($149.95) $119 special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “Deeper ruby/purple in color, the 2014 Tempranillo la Paciencia is vinified in concrete tank, then moved to take tank for malolactic fermentation, then into 20% new French demi-muids. Charcoal, beef blood, black currants, roasted herbs and smoked meats all emerge from this rich, full-bodied, concentrated and tannic beauty that has incredibly finesse, elegance and length. It’s another wine that builds with time in the glass, has ample fruit authority, and is going to keep for two decades.”

Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2015 750ML ($219.95) $179 special
Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley 2015 1.5L ($449.95) $389 special
*This wine is not listed on our website. Please call 503-223-6002 or email to order*

New Arrivals: California

Neyers Vineyards 304 Chardonnay, Sonoma County 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This intriguing wine is stainless-steel fermented and aged in stainless and concrete tanks. It deceives in its toasty undertones and its velvety, creamy texture, allowing for an edge of voluptuous body and weight. Fig, yellow apple and lemon peel provide flavor and depth, followed by a dry, focused and ultimately bright finish.”Trinchero Napa Valley Mario’s Cabernet Sauvignon, St Helena 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Spectator 91 points “A rich, sturdy, muscular style, with plenty of finesse and refinement. Offers a dark fruit core, with spice, cedar, dusty herb and earth notes. Taut tannins add to the texture and mouthfeel. Drink now through 2028. 3,673 cases made.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

New Arrivals: France – Burgundy

Louis Latour Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, Cote de Beaune 2015 750ML ($149.95) $126 special
James Suckling 97 points “So perfumed with exotic, tropical-fruit aromas that draw you into the glass. Full-bodied, layered and textured with soft creamy tannins and light stone and walnut undertones. Gun flint. Always a fantastic white. So constant. Drink or hold.”

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

Domaine Vocoret et Fils Les Clos, Chablis Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 Clearance Price

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Domaine Vocoret et Fils Vaudesir, Chablis Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 Clearance Price

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Louis Latour Cuvee Heritiers Latour Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML ($279.95) $229 special
James Suckling 97 points “So much dried-flower character on the nose with dark fruit and zest of orange peel. Full body, soft and velvety tannins and a long and flavorful finish. So sexy and delicious already. A little more than 100 cases made. Drink or hold.”

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

Louis Latour Vignes Franches, Beaune Premier Cru 2015 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special
James Suckling 95 points “Subtle aromas of bark, mushrooms and light strawberries follow through to a medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and light vanilla-bean character, even chocolate. Glorious. Drink in 2020, but this is already gorgeous.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Louis Latour Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru Les Quatre Journaux, Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML ($499.95) $399 special
James Suckling 98 points “So perfumed and aromatic with fabulous character of flowers, dark berries and chalk. Full-bodied and voluptuous. Ripe and velvety tannins and a long and flavorful finish. A wine with great potential and depth. Flamboyant. Drink in 2022.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Louis Latour Les Mitans, Volnay Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
James Suckling 95 points “Incredible aromas of crushed strawberries, blueberries and flowers. Full body, full and linear tannins and a silky, caressing finish. Always compressed and refined. Drink in 2021.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

New Arrivals: France – Beaujolais

Domaine Chignard Fleurie Les Moriers, Beaujolais 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Lurid ruby. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh red/blue fruits, incense and candied flowers, with a smoky mineral overtone that gains power with air. Offers palate-staining black raspberry and boysenberry flavors, along with suggestions of allspice and candied licorice. Concentrated yet lithe in style, showing excellent finishing clarity and a impressive mineral-driven persistence.”

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

Domaine Chignard Julienas Beauvernay, Beaujolais 2016 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Bright violet. Potent, mineral-accented dark berry, licorice candy and floral aromas are complemented by a hint of allspice. Fleshy and appealingly sweet, offering concentrated black raspberry and violet pastille flavors underscored by an enlivening mineral nuance. Shows excellent clarity and lift on an impressively long, floral-dominated finish framed by smooth, harmonious tannins.”

New Arrivals: France – Rhone

Famille Perrin Gigondas Domaine du Clos des Tourelles, Rhone 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “The finest vintage to date, the 2015 Gigondas Le Clos des Tourelles comes from a tiny vineyard located just inside the village of Gigondas. Incorporating a touch of Syrah, this Grenache dominated beauty reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as off the chart notes of black raspberries, black cherries, pepper, garrigue, and tons of that classic Gigondas spice. I wrote “Wow” more than once in my notes and this full-bodied 2015 has ultra-fine tannin, perfect balance, and a stacked mid-palate. Give bottles 2-3 years and drink over the following 15+ years.”Domaine de Beaurenard Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone 2015 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
#58 Wine Of The Year – Wine Spectator Top 100 2017
Wine Spectator 94 points “A beautiful wine, with dark fig, warm boysenberry reduction and alluring creamed raspberry flavors streaming forth, accented by graphite, black tea and pastis. There’s a healthy dose of singed apple wood through the finish, but it’s well-embedded as everything pulls together. Best from 2020 through 2040.–JM “

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

The March Sale Ends Tomorrow

When April arrives, these prices leave. There isn’t much time left, so check out some highlights below and go to our website to see a full list of all of the wines on sale (just click here). Don’t blame us if you miss out on a great deal that ends this weekend.

Arrowood Winery Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, California 2014 750ML ($34.95) Was $27, Now $24 Clearance Price
Wine Advocate 92 points “Very deep garnet-purple in color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 4% Malbec, is scented of red currants, blackberries and wild blueberries with touches of olives and underbrush. Medium-bodied, tightly wound and packed with tense red and black fruits, it has a fine-grained texture and savory finish. 9,600 cases were produced.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($149.95) Was $119, Now $99 Clearance Price
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2012 Le Pergole Torte is brilliant. In fact, this is one of the best showings of the 2012 that I can recall. The flavors are bright, focused and pulsing with energy. Because of its mid-weight structure and not overly complex personality, the 2012 looks like it will start drinking well sooner rather than later. Even today, the 2012 is extremely beautiful. This is a terrific showing for the 2012.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Heymann-Lowenstein Winninger Uhlen ‘R’ Roth Lay Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel, Mosel 2007 375ML ($99.95) Was $69, Now $59 Clearance Price

Wine Spectator 96 points “Candied citrus, jujube, sweet spice and quince paste aromas and flavors mark this sweet, bracing Riesling, which is light on its feet and resonates on the finish with a mouthwatering feel and echoes of citrus. Best from 2012 through 2045.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “Lowenstein’s 2007 Winninger Uhlen Riesling Auslese Gold Capsule Roth Lay (as in the corresponding dry wines, the letter “R” is prominent on the label of this A.P.#9) benefits from counterpoint and collaboration among bright citrus, rich pit fruit essences, and the honey of botrytis. For all of its enormous sheer ripeness and concentration, this retains a striking sense of delicacy. A snappy, spicy, pungent streak – taken together with vivid, diverse pit fruits and citrus – serves for exhilaration in a finish of memorable length and energy, with a vivid impression of crushed stone one hardly expects in a wine of such sweetness and prominent botrytization. There seems to be something of a personality role reversal at work this year, because the corresponding Rottgen Auslese is cool and refined whereas this Uhlen displays more of the piquancy and (as French growers might say) nervosite that I associate with Rottgen. But then, botrytis is always something of a wild card, so that a wine like this is profoundly and unpredictably influenced by the precise microclimatic conditions for and differences in the nature of that fungus. No doubt this too will be worth following for two or more decades.”

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Monteraponi Il Campitello Riserva, Chianti Classico DOCG 2012 750ML ($49.95) Was $41.90, Now $33 Clearance Price
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2012 Chianti Classico Riserva Il Campitello is a very pretty wine, especially for the vintage. Mid-weight and translucent in style, the 2012 captures the essence of Radda, with sweet, floral aromatics, chiseled fruit and lovely energy. Red berry, spice, tobacco, cedar and rose petal all open up in the glass. A hint of oak comes through on the finish, but otherwise this is a classic-feeling Riserva that will appeal to readers with more traditionally leaning palates. The Campitello emerges from the estate’s oldest vineyard.”

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

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