In This Newsletter:
Andre Clouet
Trending Oregon Wines (How to Choose?)
Multitude of Magnums: Loire Edition
Grape of the Week: Garganega (Soave)
Leonetti For Now & Later
“Clouet farms some incredible Grand Cru plots around his home village of Bouzy as well as in the famous and very coveted middle slopes of Ambonnay with many vines in the best lieux-dits in the Champagne region…” –Kerry Winslow, Grapelive
Grand Cru Champagne at Plebian Prices
Andre Clouet
Shop our 133 Champagne selections now!
Trending Oregon wines
Multitude of Magnums:
Loire Edition
Grape of the Week:
Garganega (Soave)
Don’t miss our sales going on now:
Bandol & Tempier
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Bandol wine
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Bandol wine
Austrian Grüner
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Austrian Grüner
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Austrian Grüner
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Bandol sale ends Friday, August 8th at 9 am Pacific. Austrian Grüner sale ends Saturday, August 9th at 9 am Pacific.
Andre Clouet
Trending Oregon Wines (How to Choose?)
Multitude of Magnums: Loire Edition
Grape of the Week: Garganega (Soave)
Leonetti For Now & Later
“Clouet farms some incredible Grand Cru plots around his home village of Bouzy as well as in the famous and very coveted middle slopes of Ambonnay with many vines in the best lieux-dits in the Champagne region…” –Kerry Winslow, Grapelive
Grand Cru Champagne at Plebian Prices
Andre Clouet
Founded in 1741, the Champagne House of Andre Clouet has been making some of the most beloved Champagnes in their entire village for centuries. Jean-Francois Clouet, the current owner and winemaker, is committed to promoting the rich history (and rich Champagnes) of the region. His wines do just that, all while representing some of the best values available.
Clouet sources his cuvees from the assorted plots in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy. This village specializes in powerfully structured Pinot Noir. His releases offer ethereal fruit, dense minerality, and effusive aromatics. The V6 is probably the best value: offering the bold fruit and complex aromas of the Grand Cru Pinot Noir aged for six years on the lees, which add toasted brioche nuances and an explosively good time.
In Stock Now from Andre Clouet:
Andre Clouet Chalky Brut NV 750ml $59 special, 14 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “Brimming with fresh apple, lemon and wild-berry aromas underlined by a note of freshly baked baguette, this begins so charming, then it turns in a fascinating mineral direction with a pronounced saline quality. The excitement comes from the tension between these two sides of this very distinctive champagne. Very long, chalky finish. 100% chardonnay from the 2013 vintage. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Andre Clouet The V6 Experience Brut NV 750ml $56 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93+ points “Aged for six years on the second lees, the yellow-golden NV Brut The V6 Experience is a Bouzy Pinot Noir that displays great purity and intensity but also reduction on the mineral-scented nose. This is deep and complex, but it needs all our patience and perhaps even a decanter or at least a big glass and lots of aeration. The palate is rich and powerful, firmly structured, very tight and still astringent on the finish, but there is so much finesse paired with power, concentration and fruit, which give the V6 a promising future. The wine just starts a bit slowly (like a rocket, which is pictured on the label), but it will most probably go very steep in a couple of years. I have ever had this cuvée before, so I can only guess, though.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Andre Clouet Brut Millésime 2015 750ml $56 special, 6 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: 50/50 blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
This is the only listing in the USA today for the double-magnum!
Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature NV 3L $299 special, 9 double-magnums in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92+ points “[Reviewed Apr 2021] 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 only listing in the USA today for the double-magnum!
Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut NV 3L $299 special, 3 double-magnums in stock now
100% Grand Cru Pinot Noir from the village of Bouzy
Decanter 92 points “[Reviewed 2021] Incredible value for a blanc de noirs (100% Pinot Noir) grower Champagne from the grand cru vineyards of Bouzy. It shows gorgeous aromas of stone fruit, citrus and strawberry, with complex brioche nuances, remarkable balance, ongoing elegance and a rich, refined, persistent finish. Drinking Window 2021 – 2026.”
Clouet sources his cuvees from the assorted plots in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy. This village specializes in powerfully structured Pinot Noir. His releases offer ethereal fruit, dense minerality, and effusive aromatics. The V6 is probably the best value: offering the bold fruit and complex aromas of the Grand Cru Pinot Noir aged for six years on the lees, which add toasted brioche nuances and an explosively good time.
In Stock Now from Andre Clouet:
Andre Clouet Chalky Brut NV 750ml $59 special, 14 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 93 points “Brimming with fresh apple, lemon and wild-berry aromas underlined by a note of freshly baked baguette, this begins so charming, then it turns in a fascinating mineral direction with a pronounced saline quality. The excitement comes from the tension between these two sides of this very distinctive champagne. Very long, chalky finish. 100% chardonnay from the 2013 vintage. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Andre Clouet The V6 Experience Brut NV 750ml $56 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93+ points “Aged for six years on the second lees, the yellow-golden NV Brut The V6 Experience is a Bouzy Pinot Noir that displays great purity and intensity but also reduction on the mineral-scented nose. This is deep and complex, but it needs all our patience and perhaps even a decanter or at least a big glass and lots of aeration. The palate is rich and powerful, firmly structured, very tight and still astringent on the finish, but there is so much finesse paired with power, concentration and fruit, which give the V6 a promising future. The wine just starts a bit slowly (like a rocket, which is pictured on the label), but it will most probably go very steep in a couple of years. I have ever had this cuvée before, so I can only guess, though.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Andre Clouet Brut Millésime 2015 750ml $56 special, 6 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: 50/50 blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
This is the only listing in the USA today for the double-magnum!
Andre Clouet Silver Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature NV 3L $299 special, 9 double-magnums in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 92+ points “[Reviewed Apr 2021] 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 only listing in the USA today for the double-magnum!
Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut NV 3L $299 special, 3 double-magnums in stock now
100% Grand Cru Pinot Noir from the village of Bouzy
Decanter 92 points “[Reviewed 2021] Incredible value for a blanc de noirs (100% Pinot Noir) grower Champagne from the grand cru vineyards of Bouzy. It shows gorgeous aromas of stone fruit, citrus and strawberry, with complex brioche nuances, remarkable balance, ongoing elegance and a rich, refined, persistent finish. Drinking Window 2021 – 2026.”
Shop our 133 Champagne selections now!
Trending Oregon wines
We love our local producers. They craft world-class wines from incredible lands without artifice or attitude, making the Willamette (and Rogue) Valley wines some of the best values in the country.
Including these favorites:
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ayres Pioneer Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2022 750ml $41.90 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Winemaker’s Note “Single clone 667. Bold and beautiful “the darkest of our Pinot Noirs! Fans of Pioneer know it from the first taste. Appreciate dark blackberry fruit, forest floor, clove, and leather.”
Beaux Freres The Beaux Freres Vineyards Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2022 750ml $124.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Decanter 97 points “A gorgeous Pinot Noir, the plantings from 1988 are being replanted as the phyloxerated vines are being removed. This wine shows elegance and grace while maintaining depth and concentration, but make no mistake, it’s built to age. The Beaux Frères Vineyard is clonally diverse with a massale selection of Pommard and Wadenswil and 115. Red fruited aromas and beautiful interplay between bright berries mixed with fresh mint and savoury herbs. The palate remains fresh and elegant, with red-fruited generosity and savoury depth of spearmint and wild anise. (Drink between 2024-2040).”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Brick House Vineyards ‘Les Dijonnais’ Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2022 750ml $59 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 94 points “Sweetly spiced, the 2022 Pinot Noir Les Dijonnais opens with an intoxicating bouquet of cedar spice box, incense, clove and black cherry. This is juicy in character, silky-smooth and complex, with vividly ripe red berry fruits and rosy inner florals accelerated by brilliant acidity. It finishes with admirable length, subtly tannic yet focused, leaving a tart cranberry concentration and a flourish of minerality that keeps the mouth watering for more. Fantastic.”
Cameron Winery Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2023 750ml $36 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Being our largest bottling of Pinot noir, the Dundee Hills blend can portend the broader strokes of the vintage. If the same holds true for 2023, Dear Reader, you’ll be glad to hold onto the Camerons from this vintage. With its deep purple and ruby color, notes of ripe bing cherry, Italian plum and forest floor, and smooth but present tannin, the 2023 Dundee Hills Pinot noir is showing concentration fit for aging. Sage and western cedar on the nose and it’s bright acidity make this wine ready for immediate consumption — may we recommend some for now and some for later!”
The OG bottling from this producer, we love its rich minerality, citrus and baking spice aromas, and deep complexity for the money
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Championship Bottle ‘Gravity’s Pull’ Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2022 750ml $33 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Chardonnay may prove to be the signature grape of the Willamette Valley. Minerally, bright, and electric, this wine represents a fully realized vision of what we look for in the grape-an homage to Burgundy and Friuli by way of Oregon.”
Cristom Seven Springs Vineyard Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2021 750ml $54.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2021 Chardonnay Seven Springs Vineyard is highly expressive and complete with layers of pure fruit and mineral-tinged aromas, noted by gunflint, fresh tangerine, well-managed oak spice, and fresh pear. Medium to full-bodied, with great energy, it’s lush up front but has a great tension-driven core, with a touch of pithy texture and a bit of yellow floral tone on the finish. It’s going to drink well over the next 8-10 years.”
The Eyrie Vineyards Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2021 750ml $49 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 94+ points “The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate lifts from the glass with a mentholated freshness, giving way to dried roses and strawberries. Silky and enveloping, it possesses a core of vividly ripe wild berries and sweet herbal tones that resonate over a tactile staining of saline minerals. Grippy tannins saturate through the long, spicy finish as repleting inner florals and bitter hints of licorice fade.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Haden Fig Cancilla Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $38 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The modest temperatures and even growing season post-flowering seems to have resulted in wines that have knit together quickly and show fantastic poise. This balance is likely to result in wines that drink wonderfully young and will mature gracefully.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Hundred Suns ‘Old Eight Cut’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $31.90 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Black cherries, a hint of red currant, and a dusting of dark chocolate. The first sip shows a center point of sweetness that is buttressed by ripe tannins and a hint of nori that give the wine a serious edge. With air and time, the sappy spicy notes that come from partial whole cluster fermentation resonate on the finish, making this wine that will drink well now and over the next 10 years. The Old Eight Cut refers to a diamond cut dating back to the 1400s using simple tools and few cuts to enhance the natural brilliance of the stone without disguising its true nature.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
J.C. Somers Abbey Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2022 750ml $61.90 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “I have worked with Abbey Ridge since 1993 (while at Adelshiem) and in 1994 with Cameron Winery. In 2001, I was lucky to be offered a block of Pinot Noir at Abbey Ridge and have been working with the fruit ever since. Abbey Ridge is the cornerstone to our Pinot Noir program and I believe it to be the best Pinot Noir site in the Willamette Valley. Owned by my friends Bill and Julia Wayne, this vineyard is the platonic form of what the Dundee Hills AVA is all about – elegance. We have 2.5 acres of the Coury Clone Pinot Noir.”
Kelley Fox Wines ‘Mirabai’ Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2023 750ml $41.90 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 93 points “Despite its modest price point, the 2023 Pinot Noir Mirabai (a barrel selection) comes from some of the top vineyards in the Dundee Hills. Fifty-two percent comes from own-rooted vines in the Weber Vineyard planted in 1983; 28% comes from Stater Vineyard, where vines were planted on rootstock in 1990; 11% comes from own-rooted vines planted in 1974 and 1984 in Durant Vineyard; and 9% comes from own-rooted vines planted from 1970 to 1988 in the Maresh Vineyard. It was fermented with around 15% whole clusters, and the wine was matured for 10 months in used French oak. It has ringing aromas of rhubarb, blackberry, raspberry, lavender and Angostura bitters, offering botanical undertones as it airs in the glass. The light-bodied palate is vibrant and expressive with wonderfully perfumed fruit, chalky tannins and a long, tremendously layered finish. 1,808 cases were made.”
Ovum ‘Big Salt’ Orange Rosé, Elkton 2024 750ml $19 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “2024 Big Salt “Orange Rose” has a hazy, rose gold/amber hue. The nose is an earthy dance between the ginger, turmeric notes of skinzy Pinot Gris, and the tropical island vibes of skin contact Gewurz and Muscat. It’s like stirring a mandarin creamsicle into a glass of hibiscus ginger tea. The palate is soft but retains the tannic grip ramato Pinot gris is known for.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Peter William Vineyard PWV ‘Les Candives’ Reserve Red, Rogue Valley 2018 750ml $33 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 94 points “Of the three Syrahs made by this winery in 2018, this one is 100% Syrah made from the estate vineyard and aged entirely in French oak, 50% new. To distinguish it from the others, the winery went with the “Candives” name, said to be an alternate name for Syrah used in the tiny village of Chavanay in the Northern Rhone Valley. As fine as the other 2018s are, this is so dark, dense, and dramatic that the special name is certainly merited. Loaded with ripe black fruit, it also has layers of spice, hints of clove and violets, light leather, toast, and pepper that evolve in the glass. Ultra smooth and seamless, it is beautiful now but will also bring rewards with cellaring.”
St. Innocent Cuvée Cuvee Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2022 750ml $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The Pinot noir, Villages Cuvée has robust sweet spice aromas with lovely black cherry, smoky berry and dark rose notes. Juicy and pungent flavors of dark cherry, wild strawberry, allspice, cinnamon with a touch of smoke fill your mouth. Beautifully balanced with soft tannins and fresh acidity, the finish slowly fades into supple dried fruit and spices. Still young now the wine will fill out through the winter and into the spring. This is my favorite wine for thanksgiving and flavorful white meat dishes. It is just as good with burgers, brats and pizza. Enjoy now through 2030.”
Including these favorites:
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Ayres Pioneer Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2022 750ml $41.90 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Winemaker’s Note “Single clone 667. Bold and beautiful “the darkest of our Pinot Noirs! Fans of Pioneer know it from the first taste. Appreciate dark blackberry fruit, forest floor, clove, and leather.”
Beaux Freres The Beaux Freres Vineyards Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2022 750ml $124.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Decanter 97 points “A gorgeous Pinot Noir, the plantings from 1988 are being replanted as the phyloxerated vines are being removed. This wine shows elegance and grace while maintaining depth and concentration, but make no mistake, it’s built to age. The Beaux Frères Vineyard is clonally diverse with a massale selection of Pommard and Wadenswil and 115. Red fruited aromas and beautiful interplay between bright berries mixed with fresh mint and savoury herbs. The palate remains fresh and elegant, with red-fruited generosity and savoury depth of spearmint and wild anise. (Drink between 2024-2040).”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Brick House Vineyards ‘Les Dijonnais’ Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2022 750ml $59 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 94 points “Sweetly spiced, the 2022 Pinot Noir Les Dijonnais opens with an intoxicating bouquet of cedar spice box, incense, clove and black cherry. This is juicy in character, silky-smooth and complex, with vividly ripe red berry fruits and rosy inner florals accelerated by brilliant acidity. It finishes with admirable length, subtly tannic yet focused, leaving a tart cranberry concentration and a flourish of minerality that keeps the mouth watering for more. Fantastic.”
Cameron Winery Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2023 750ml $36 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Being our largest bottling of Pinot noir, the Dundee Hills blend can portend the broader strokes of the vintage. If the same holds true for 2023, Dear Reader, you’ll be glad to hold onto the Camerons from this vintage. With its deep purple and ruby color, notes of ripe bing cherry, Italian plum and forest floor, and smooth but present tannin, the 2023 Dundee Hills Pinot noir is showing concentration fit for aging. Sage and western cedar on the nose and it’s bright acidity make this wine ready for immediate consumption — may we recommend some for now and some for later!”
The OG bottling from this producer, we love its rich minerality, citrus and baking spice aromas, and deep complexity for the money
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Championship Bottle ‘Gravity’s Pull’ Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2022 750ml $33 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Chardonnay may prove to be the signature grape of the Willamette Valley. Minerally, bright, and electric, this wine represents a fully realized vision of what we look for in the grape-an homage to Burgundy and Friuli by way of Oregon.”
Cristom Seven Springs Vineyard Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2021 750ml $54.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2021 Chardonnay Seven Springs Vineyard is highly expressive and complete with layers of pure fruit and mineral-tinged aromas, noted by gunflint, fresh tangerine, well-managed oak spice, and fresh pear. Medium to full-bodied, with great energy, it’s lush up front but has a great tension-driven core, with a touch of pithy texture and a bit of yellow floral tone on the finish. It’s going to drink well over the next 8-10 years.”
The Eyrie Vineyards Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2021 750ml $49 special, 27 bottles in stock now
Eric Guido-Vinous 94+ points “The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate lifts from the glass with a mentholated freshness, giving way to dried roses and strawberries. Silky and enveloping, it possesses a core of vividly ripe wild berries and sweet herbal tones that resonate over a tactile staining of saline minerals. Grippy tannins saturate through the long, spicy finish as repleting inner florals and bitter hints of licorice fade.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Haden Fig Cancilla Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $38 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The modest temperatures and even growing season post-flowering seems to have resulted in wines that have knit together quickly and show fantastic poise. This balance is likely to result in wines that drink wonderfully young and will mature gracefully.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Hundred Suns ‘Old Eight Cut’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023 750ml $31.90 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “Black cherries, a hint of red currant, and a dusting of dark chocolate. The first sip shows a center point of sweetness that is buttressed by ripe tannins and a hint of nori that give the wine a serious edge. With air and time, the sappy spicy notes that come from partial whole cluster fermentation resonate on the finish, making this wine that will drink well now and over the next 10 years. The Old Eight Cut refers to a diamond cut dating back to the 1400s using simple tools and few cuts to enhance the natural brilliance of the stone without disguising its true nature.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
J.C. Somers Abbey Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2022 750ml $61.90 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “I have worked with Abbey Ridge since 1993 (while at Adelshiem) and in 1994 with Cameron Winery. In 2001, I was lucky to be offered a block of Pinot Noir at Abbey Ridge and have been working with the fruit ever since. Abbey Ridge is the cornerstone to our Pinot Noir program and I believe it to be the best Pinot Noir site in the Willamette Valley. Owned by my friends Bill and Julia Wayne, this vineyard is the platonic form of what the Dundee Hills AVA is all about – elegance. We have 2.5 acres of the Coury Clone Pinot Noir.”
Kelley Fox Wines ‘Mirabai’ Pinot Noir, McMinnville 2023 750ml $41.90 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 93 points “Despite its modest price point, the 2023 Pinot Noir Mirabai (a barrel selection) comes from some of the top vineyards in the Dundee Hills. Fifty-two percent comes from own-rooted vines in the Weber Vineyard planted in 1983; 28% comes from Stater Vineyard, where vines were planted on rootstock in 1990; 11% comes from own-rooted vines planted in 1974 and 1984 in Durant Vineyard; and 9% comes from own-rooted vines planted from 1970 to 1988 in the Maresh Vineyard. It was fermented with around 15% whole clusters, and the wine was matured for 10 months in used French oak. It has ringing aromas of rhubarb, blackberry, raspberry, lavender and Angostura bitters, offering botanical undertones as it airs in the glass. The light-bodied palate is vibrant and expressive with wonderfully perfumed fruit, chalky tannins and a long, tremendously layered finish. 1,808 cases were made.”
Ovum ‘Big Salt’ Orange Rosé, Elkton 2024 750ml $19 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Winery Note “2024 Big Salt “Orange Rose” has a hazy, rose gold/amber hue. The nose is an earthy dance between the ginger, turmeric notes of skinzy Pinot Gris, and the tropical island vibes of skin contact Gewurz and Muscat. It’s like stirring a mandarin creamsicle into a glass of hibiscus ginger tea. The palate is soft but retains the tannic grip ramato Pinot gris is known for.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Peter William Vineyard PWV ‘Les Candives’ Reserve Red, Rogue Valley 2018 750ml $33 special, 30 bottles in stock now
Norm Roby-Wine Review Online 94 points “Of the three Syrahs made by this winery in 2018, this one is 100% Syrah made from the estate vineyard and aged entirely in French oak, 50% new. To distinguish it from the others, the winery went with the “Candives” name, said to be an alternate name for Syrah used in the tiny village of Chavanay in the Northern Rhone Valley. As fine as the other 2018s are, this is so dark, dense, and dramatic that the special name is certainly merited. Loaded with ripe black fruit, it also has layers of spice, hints of clove and violets, light leather, toast, and pepper that evolve in the glass. Ultra smooth and seamless, it is beautiful now but will also bring rewards with cellaring.”
St. Innocent Cuvée Cuvee Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2022 750ml $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Winery Note “The Pinot noir, Villages Cuvée has robust sweet spice aromas with lovely black cherry, smoky berry and dark rose notes. Juicy and pungent flavors of dark cherry, wild strawberry, allspice, cinnamon with a touch of smoke fill your mouth. Beautifully balanced with soft tannins and fresh acidity, the finish slowly fades into supple dried fruit and spices. Still young now the wine will fill out through the winter and into the spring. This is my favorite wine for thanksgiving and flavorful white meat dishes. It is just as good with burgers, brats and pizza. Enjoy now through 2030.”
Multitude of Magnums:
Loire Edition
We offer 83 in-stock wine options from the Loire Valley, including these magnificent magnums:
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) Clos de Beaujeu 2021 1.5L $119 special, 1 magnum in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW-Vinous 91 points “The 2021 Clos de Beaujeu reflects the vintage with its tension and precision. It sits with focus in the mouth but doesn’t become heavy. There’s a sense of silky texture before pulling in tight like a belt. Just-ripe pineapple, violet and citrus linger on the finish. (Drink between 2023-2028).”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) La Cote 2022 1.5L $129 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “Boulay’s parcel in “La Grande Côte,” which is partially owned and partically rented, is one of three designated Crus of Chavignol and is reputed for producing wines of incredible precision. Vintage 2010 was the inaugural release. Overall, Gerard Boulay’s “terre blanche” vineyards produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire, with a delineation and minerality often reminiscent of a top Chablis. Boulay is certainly among the top examples of the appellation, including Boulay’s neighbors (Cotat Bros., Vatan). These are gorgeous, highly complex wines that are a clear step above “regular” Sancerre, and can age easily for 10-20 years or more. In fact, we have had them all the way back to the 1959 which was magnificent! They confirm Boulay’s place in the top ranks of Loire Valley vignerons. (referred to by the Cotat brothers as La Grande Cote)”
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) Comtesse 2023 1.5L $159 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “The most powerful and complex wine from Boulay’s lineup, with an incredible intensity of fruit and a strong mineral core. Definitely one to put away and follow for years to come.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) Les Monts Damnes 2023 1.5L $128 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “Old vines located on a steep slope in the Mont Damnes vineyard that Boulay began farming in 2004. Vines average 45 years old. Aged on the lees in a combination of barrel and tank then bottled unfiltered.”
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fume (Sauvignon Blanc) ‘Leon’ 2021 1.5L $69 special, 4 magnums in stock now
“The 2021 Léon accounts for most of the domaine’s production (70%). It has a bright, gooseberry and elderflower-like character. Fermented partially in concrete (40%), stainless steel (40%) and barrel (20%), it has a silky charm while remaining light-bodied. This is a really lively number that has charm and brightness. Very easy to like, made with a delicate hand.” -Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast for the magnum!
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Clisson Cru 2022 1.5L $69 special, 3 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “100% Melon de Bourgogne. The Clisson bottling comes from a 50-100-year-old section of vines in Pepière’s core vineyard near the winery in the cru of Clisson. Besides vine age, the distinguishing factor is the granite de Clisson, a very hard, compact form of granite. The very poor top soils are decomposed granite de Clisson with very little clay and a lot of quartz and mica over hard mother rock of granite de Clisson. The farming is certified-biodynamic. The hand-harvested bunches are direct-pressed and the juice settled naturally overnight. It is then fermented spontaneously with natural yeasts and aged on its lees for a minimum of 2 years in underground vats. The wine is bottled without fining or filtering.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Thibaud Boudignon Anjou Blanc (Chenin Blanc) ‘a Francoise..’ 2020 1.5L $145 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Yohan Castaing-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2020 Anjou Blanc à François(e)… is showing well today, with a gourmand, fruity bouquet with aromas of ripe orchard fruits, exotic fruits, lemon oil and iodine. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, it’s dense and a bit phenolic with a long, penetrating finish. Naturally dense and powerful, this cuvée is also energetic and saline.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) Clos de Beaujeu 2021 1.5L $119 special, 1 magnum in stock now
Rebecca Gibb MW-Vinous 91 points “The 2021 Clos de Beaujeu reflects the vintage with its tension and precision. It sits with focus in the mouth but doesn’t become heavy. There’s a sense of silky texture before pulling in tight like a belt. Just-ripe pineapple, violet and citrus linger on the finish. (Drink between 2023-2028).”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) La Cote 2022 1.5L $129 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “Boulay’s parcel in “La Grande Côte,” which is partially owned and partically rented, is one of three designated Crus of Chavignol and is reputed for producing wines of incredible precision. Vintage 2010 was the inaugural release. Overall, Gerard Boulay’s “terre blanche” vineyards produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire, with a delineation and minerality often reminiscent of a top Chablis. Boulay is certainly among the top examples of the appellation, including Boulay’s neighbors (Cotat Bros., Vatan). These are gorgeous, highly complex wines that are a clear step above “regular” Sancerre, and can age easily for 10-20 years or more. In fact, we have had them all the way back to the 1959 which was magnificent! They confirm Boulay’s place in the top ranks of Loire Valley vignerons. (referred to by the Cotat brothers as La Grande Cote)”
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) Comtesse 2023 1.5L $159 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “The most powerful and complex wine from Boulay’s lineup, with an incredible intensity of fruit and a strong mineral core. Definitely one to put away and follow for years to come.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today for the magnum!
Gerard Boulay Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) Les Monts Damnes 2023 1.5L $128 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “Old vines located on a steep slope in the Mont Damnes vineyard that Boulay began farming in 2004. Vines average 45 years old. Aged on the lees in a combination of barrel and tank then bottled unfiltered.”
This is the only listing in the USA today for the magnum!
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fume (Sauvignon Blanc) ‘Leon’ 2021 1.5L $69 special, 4 magnums in stock now
“The 2021 Léon accounts for most of the domaine’s production (70%). It has a bright, gooseberry and elderflower-like character. Fermented partially in concrete (40%), stainless steel (40%) and barrel (20%), it has a silky charm while remaining light-bodied. This is a really lively number that has charm and brightness. Very easy to like, made with a delicate hand.” -Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast for the magnum!
Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Clisson Cru 2022 1.5L $69 special, 3 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “100% Melon de Bourgogne. The Clisson bottling comes from a 50-100-year-old section of vines in Pepière’s core vineyard near the winery in the cru of Clisson. Besides vine age, the distinguishing factor is the granite de Clisson, a very hard, compact form of granite. The very poor top soils are decomposed granite de Clisson with very little clay and a lot of quartz and mica over hard mother rock of granite de Clisson. The farming is certified-biodynamic. The hand-harvested bunches are direct-pressed and the juice settled naturally overnight. It is then fermented spontaneously with natural yeasts and aged on its lees for a minimum of 2 years in underground vats. The wine is bottled without fining or filtering.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Thibaud Boudignon Anjou Blanc (Chenin Blanc) ‘a Francoise..’ 2020 1.5L $145 special, 2 magnums in stock now
Yohan Castaing-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2020 Anjou Blanc à François(e)… is showing well today, with a gourmand, fruity bouquet with aromas of ripe orchard fruits, exotic fruits, lemon oil and iodine. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, it’s dense and a bit phenolic with a long, penetrating finish. Naturally dense and powerful, this cuvée is also energetic and saline.”
Grape of the Week:
Garganega (Soave)
The grape variety Garganega doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, but it does result in delicate and nuanced whites from its home region of the Veneto. Here, the region of Soave is Garganega’s home. The resulting whites are dry, crisp and aromatic, offering classic notes of almonds and orchard fruits. We stock two of the region’s most sought-after producers: Cantina Pra and Pieropan.
In Stock Now:
Cantina Pra ‘Otto’ Soave Classico, Veneto 2023 750ml $19 special, 17 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 90 points “Energetic, mid-weighted Soave. Delicious drinking. Prosaic in the best sense, with attractive notes of garden herbs, aniseed and freshly sliced Asian pears. Some unresolved CO2 adds to the easygoing length. From organically grown grapes. Drink now. Screw cap.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Pieropan Soave, Veneto 2023 750ml $19 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Every year Pieropan captures the soul of Soave, Garganega and the vintage in such a pristine way that it keeps us in awe. This vintage shines with aromas of Fuji pears, Anjou apples, lemon blossom and flint. The palate is crisp with green apple skin and lemon zest flavors that give way to toasted almonds, acacia honey and a minerality so deep that you might as well be in a quarry. Drink now to 2040.”
Pieropan La Rocca Soave Classico, Veneto 2023 750ml $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
No reviews for the 2023 vintage. 2022 review provided for reference.
James Suckling 96 points “The only oak-inflected cuvee at the estate. Aged in 100% used tonneaux, both French and Slavonian. Superb aromas of pistachios, peaches and dried mangoes. Broad and expansive, yet funneled into a vortex of tension by freshness that sublimates any sense of obvious power. A wonderful expression of a warmer vintage that suits perfectly this compelling site. Drink or hold.”
In Stock Now:
Cantina Pra ‘Otto’ Soave Classico, Veneto 2023 750ml $19 special, 17 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 90 points “Energetic, mid-weighted Soave. Delicious drinking. Prosaic in the best sense, with attractive notes of garden herbs, aniseed and freshly sliced Asian pears. Some unresolved CO2 adds to the easygoing length. From organically grown grapes. Drink now. Screw cap.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Pieropan Soave, Veneto 2023 750ml $19 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Every year Pieropan captures the soul of Soave, Garganega and the vintage in such a pristine way that it keeps us in awe. This vintage shines with aromas of Fuji pears, Anjou apples, lemon blossom and flint. The palate is crisp with green apple skin and lemon zest flavors that give way to toasted almonds, acacia honey and a minerality so deep that you might as well be in a quarry. Drink now to 2040.”
Pieropan La Rocca Soave Classico, Veneto 2023 750ml $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
No reviews for the 2023 vintage. 2022 review provided for reference.
James Suckling 96 points “The only oak-inflected cuvee at the estate. Aged in 100% used tonneaux, both French and Slavonian. Superb aromas of pistachios, peaches and dried mangoes. Broad and expansive, yet funneled into a vortex of tension by freshness that sublimates any sense of obvious power. A wonderful expression of a warmer vintage that suits perfectly this compelling site. Drink or hold.”
Although Cayuse is probably the first name that comes to mind when discussing rare, cult Walla Walla wines, Leonetti is the harder-to-source prize. They produce supremely polished Bordeaux-inspired reds that dazzle professional reviewers every vintages.
There just isn’t much available (unless you like paying restaurant markups) and the wines are held in incredibly high esteem. The Cabernet is fantastic, the Merlot reminds you why people fell in love with the grape in the first place.
In Stock Now:
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2021 750ml $119 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The classic 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from this reference point estate checks in as 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Malbec raised 22 months in once-filled oak and neutral oval botti. Its vivid purple hue is followed by a perfumed, youthful bouquet of cassis and blue fruits that give way to more graphite, chalky minerality, violets, and spicy oak. It’s deep, rich, and medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a gorgeous mid-palate, ripe, building, polished tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. This absolutely brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon needs to be forgotten for 2-4 years and will evolve gracefully over the following two decades. It’s another sensational wine from the talents of Chris Figgins.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Leonetti Cellar Merlot, Walla Walla Valley 2022 750ml $95 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “All Merlot aged in once-filled and neutral oak, the 2022 Merlot sports a vivid ruby/purple hue as well as solid aromatics of ripe black cherries, cedary herbs, dried flowers, and a kiss of background oak. It’s medium to full-bodied, has a pure, elegant mouthfeel, polished tannins, and a great finish. It will keep from 10-12 years with ease.”
Arriving Early August:
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2022 750ml $148 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon exudes juicy cherry, plum, and cassis, a bit of tannin and oak spice, while developing full-bodied, concentrated layers of earthy dried herb and graphite. With 6% Malbec added before aging 22 months in new and once-filled French oak, it is well-integrated and cohesive on the lengthy palate, with a finesse on the finish. It should easily age another 20-30 years with proper cellaring.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Leonetti Cellar Reserve, Walla Walla Valley 2022 750ml $269 pre-arrival special, 3 bottles available
Owen Bargreen 99 points “A stunning rendition of this wine, the 2022 Leonetti ‘Reserve’ is a world-class bottling that combines 75% Cabernet Sauvignon with 19% Malbec, and the remainder Petit Verdot. Arabica bean aromatics combine with shades of loamy soils, dark currant cordial, Cuban cigar and blackberry compote. The palate is viscous and concentrated with serious underlying tension that runs through the core of black and blue fruits. Broad-shouldered and full-bodied, this is a resounding success from a difficult vintage. Tasted over two days, try to resist this beauty for at least another two years.”
There just isn’t much available (unless you like paying restaurant markups) and the wines are held in incredibly high esteem. The Cabernet is fantastic, the Merlot reminds you why people fell in love with the grape in the first place.
In Stock Now:
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2021 750ml $119 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The classic 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from this reference point estate checks in as 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Malbec raised 22 months in once-filled oak and neutral oval botti. Its vivid purple hue is followed by a perfumed, youthful bouquet of cassis and blue fruits that give way to more graphite, chalky minerality, violets, and spicy oak. It’s deep, rich, and medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a gorgeous mid-palate, ripe, building, polished tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. This absolutely brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon needs to be forgotten for 2-4 years and will evolve gracefully over the following two decades. It’s another sensational wine from the talents of Chris Figgins.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Leonetti Cellar Merlot, Walla Walla Valley 2022 750ml $95 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “All Merlot aged in once-filled and neutral oak, the 2022 Merlot sports a vivid ruby/purple hue as well as solid aromatics of ripe black cherries, cedary herbs, dried flowers, and a kiss of background oak. It’s medium to full-bodied, has a pure, elegant mouthfeel, polished tannins, and a great finish. It will keep from 10-12 years with ease.”
Arriving Early August:
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2022 750ml $148 pre-arrival special, 18 bottles available
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon exudes juicy cherry, plum, and cassis, a bit of tannin and oak spice, while developing full-bodied, concentrated layers of earthy dried herb and graphite. With 6% Malbec added before aging 22 months in new and once-filled French oak, it is well-integrated and cohesive on the lengthy palate, with a finesse on the finish. It should easily age another 20-30 years with proper cellaring.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
Leonetti Cellar Reserve, Walla Walla Valley 2022 750ml $269 pre-arrival special, 3 bottles available
Owen Bargreen 99 points “A stunning rendition of this wine, the 2022 Leonetti ‘Reserve’ is a world-class bottling that combines 75% Cabernet Sauvignon with 19% Malbec, and the remainder Petit Verdot. Arabica bean aromatics combine with shades of loamy soils, dark currant cordial, Cuban cigar and blackberry compote. The palate is viscous and concentrated with serious underlying tension that runs through the core of black and blue fruits. Broad-shouldered and full-bodied, this is a resounding success from a difficult vintage. Tasted over two days, try to resist this beauty for at least another two years.”
Don’t miss our sales going on now:
Bandol & Tempier
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Bandol wine
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Bandol wine
Austrian Grüner
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Austrian Grüner
10% off any 6+ or more in-stock bottles of Austrian Grüner
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Bandol sale ends Friday, August 8th at 9 am Pacific. Austrian Grüner sale ends Saturday, August 9th at 9 am Pacific.