December 9, 2013
Piollot Champagne Cuvee de Reserve Extra-Brut NV ($39.95) $27 jump start special
Rowland Piollot is a 5th generation grower in Polisot, Cotes des Bar. A zealot in respect to organic practices, and literally married to Champagne- his wife is Dominique Moreau, she of Marie-Courtin acclaim. This wine is nicely balanced in all respects; the light touch on dosage (extra-brut) adds a verve to the richness inherent in a 50% Pinot Noir blend from the relatively warm Cotes des Bar, in the southern reaches of the Champagne Appellation.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA
The average listed price in the USA is $39 / bottle
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New Week – New Arrivals
USA- OREGON
Patricia Green Cellars Pinot Noir Freedom Hill Dijon Clone 115 2012 ($41.95) $36 special
Patricia Green Cellars Pinot Noir Anklebreaker Block 2012 ($59.95) $46 special
USA- WASHINGTON
Quilceda Creek Columbia Valley Red Blend 2010 ($79.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “A superb entry level effort that has not only layers of fruit and texture, but solid back-end structure, the 2010 Red Wine is a declassified blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, yet has 15% Merlot and a splash of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc in there as well. Up-front, perfumed and intense, it offers up spice-laced red and black fruits, toast, cedar, vanilla and hints of chocolate to go with a full-bodied, mouth-filling and voluptuously textured palate. Lacking the polish and elegance that can be found in this estate’s upper tier efforts, it nevertheless has superb fruit, ripe tannin and serious length. Enjoy it while you wait for this estate’s other wines to mature. Drink now-2020.”
L’Ecole 41 Perigee Seven Springs Vineyard Walla Walla 2010 ($49.95) $38 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “One of the estate’s single vineyard releases that focuses on the Seven Hills Vineyard that’s located in the southwestern part of the Walla Walla Valley, the 2010 Perigee Estate Seven Hills Vineyard is comprised of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. Spending 22 months in 50% new French oak, it-s a knockout effort that has full-bodied richness and depth as well as beautifully complex aromas and flavors of black cherries, raspberry, spice box, underbrush and toast. Concentrated, layered and with plenty of ripe tannin, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will drink beautifully through 2025. Drink 2016-2025.”
L’Ecole 41 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard Walla Walla 2010 ($49.95) $38 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Along the same lines and focusing on Pepper Bridge Vineyard, the 2010 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard (56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 7% Malbec and 4% Cabernet Franc that sees the same treatment in the winery as the Perigee) offers up a deeper, mineral-laced profile of black currant, tobacco, earth and crushed stone. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, with great mid-palate depth and building tannin, it too needs a handful of years to round into shape and will have an easy 15 years of ultimate longevity. Drink 2016-2025.”
USA- CALIFORNIA
Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection 2011 ($149.95) S119 special
Robert Parker 95 points “A brilliant wine, and one of the stars of the vintage, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection boasts aromas of blueberry pie, blackberries, cassis and white flowers. This full-bodied, velvety textured, delicious 2011 is already drinking well, and should continue to do so for 10-12 years. It is a terrific success for the vintage.”
Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry 2010 ($179.95) $149 special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Lede’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry brings together the aromatic nuance and overt florality of the Landslide Fire with the heft and concentration of the Songbook, a pretty appealing combination in my book. Power and richness dominate in a wine that nevertheless retains considerable finesse. Over time, the more silky, gracious side of the Poetry emerges as layers of fruit appear to blossom in all directions. This is another totally delicious, compelling wine from Cliff Lede. The blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec”
Failla Syrah Hudson Vineyard 2010 ($59.95) $51.90 special
Antonio Galloni 95 points “Black olives, savory herbs, asphalt, bittersweet chocolate, cloves and menthol all flesh out in Failla’s 2010 Syrah Hudson Vineyard. A dark, rich wine, the 2010 saturates the palate with endless waves of flavor. There is so much going on in the glass, it’s hard to know where to start. A deep, layered finish rounds out this explosive, rich Syrah beautifully. Jordan used 100% whole clusters here, but they are totally integrated with the wine.”
FRANCE – BURGUNDY
Thomas Pico Domaine Pattes Loup Chablis 1er Cru Butteaux 2011 ($49.95) $39 special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2011 Chablis Chablis Butteaux is where all the Pattes Loup signatures come together in the glass. A little of the richness of the Cotes de Jouan, along with the focus of the Beauregard add up to a compelling and complete wine loaded with depth, polish and pedigree. Dried pear, nutmeg and licorice linger on a finish that impresses for its pure precision. This is a classic, highly representative wine that captures the essence of the Pattes Loup house style. Beginning in 2011 Thomas Pico decided to label its Montmain as Butteaux to reflect its exact provenance. The parcel, and the wine, are the same.”
Jadot Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Cailleret 2010 ($79.95) $69 special
John Gilman 93+ points “The 2010 Caillerets from Maison Jadot is another excellent premier cru. The deep and very classy nose wafts from the glass in an elegant blend of lemon, pear, apple, spring flowers, a beautiful base of terres blanches and a deft base of new oak. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and seamless, with a beautiful core of silky fruit, great intensity of flavor, brisk acids and a very long, pure and classy finish.”
Jadot Pernand-Vergelesses Rouge 1er Cru Clos Croix de Pierre 2010 ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Enthusiast 92 points “The Clos de la Croix de Pierre forms part of the En Caradeux premier cru, and it creates poised wines. This is the red partner to a white also produced by Louis Jadot, and it displays juicy red fruit, layered with firm tannins. Drinkable now, but also capable of aging for five years.”
Louis Jadot Savigny Les Beaune Les Dominodes 2010 ($49.95) $39 special
Jadot Savigny Les Beaune 1er Cru Narbontons 2010 ($49.95) $39 special
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2010 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Les Dominodes has a vivacious nose with plenty of crisp red currant and fresh strawberry fruit that burst from the glass. The palate is well-balanced with crisp acidity, firm grip and a touch of spice toward the lifted finish. This is a lovely, lilting Savigny that I would rather drink in its youth. Drink now-2017”
FRANCE – RHONE
Chapoutier Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac 2010 ($119.95) $89 special
Robert Parker 96 points “A magnificent effort, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac boasts huge notes of kirsch, exotic herbs, lavender, cedar, fig, black cherry, black currant, licorice and roasted meats. This flamboyant, rich, full-throttle Chateauneuf du Pape should age well for two decades. It will be interesting to follow this wine’s evolution alongside the brilliant 2009 and 2007 Barbe Racs.”
Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape 2005 ($179.95) $149 special
Wine Spectator 98 points “Really tight now, but packed with dark fig, currant, espresso, licorice and chocolate notes. Superfleshy but seriously structured, there’s layer after layer of sweet spice, fruit and minerality pumping through the finish, with lots of latent depth and power. Far more backward than the 2003 or 2004 on release, but since this red typically puts on weight as it ages, it should be a monster–à la the 1990–when it reaches its peak. Best from 2009 through 2030.”
Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin 2010 ($149.95) $119 special
Robert Parker 98 points “The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin rivals the 2007 Chaupin (to date the best Chaupin I have yet tasted). Made from 100% Grenache (3/4 destemmed), it boasts a dense black/purple color as well as unbelievable notes of raspberries, black cherries, licorice, truffles, camphor, forest floor and garrigue. This wine is stunningly concentrated, incredibly noble, precise and expansive on the palate with mouth-saturating intensity, glycerin and extract. It is an amazing example of impeccably grown old vine Grenache translated into a natural yet full-throttle red.”
FRANCE – BORDEAUX
Haut Bages Liberal Pauillac 2006 6-Liter ($599.95) $499 special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Dark ruby purple in color, with aromas of currant and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a delicious finish. Tight now, but pretty and balanced. Best after 2012.”
ITALY-PIEDMONT
Paitin Barbaresco Serra 2010 ($37.95) $30.90 special
Case-12: Paitin Barbaresco Serra 2010 $336 super special (that’s $28 / bottle)
Giacomo Conterno Barbera d’Alba Cascina Francia 2011 ($59.95) $49 special
Antonio Galloni- Vinous 93 points “Conterno’s 2011 Barbera d’Alba Cascina Francia emerges from the glass with an exciting mélange of savory herbs, rose petals, wild flowers and dark red fruit. Here the expression of fruit is broad, ample and generous, with layers of fruit that cover every inch of the palate. The Cascina Francia is expansive, while the Cerretta is a bit more focused. Both are fabulous.”
Giacomo Conterno Barolo Cascina Francia 2009 ($179.95) $149 special
Antonio Galloni- Vinous 95 points “Conterno’s 2009 Barolo Cascina Francia wraps around the palate with gorgeous depth. A wine of volume and breadth, the 2009 fleshes out beautifully on the palate with layers of harmonious, silky fruit. Sweet tobacco, mint, flowers, spices and the most beautiful pure fruit all flesh out on the voluptuous, inviting finish. All the elements are in place for the 2009 to develop into a superb Barolo, but readers will have to be patient as the wine was just bottled. I remember what happened the last time Conterno bottled a Cascina Francia, but no Monfortino. The vintage was 2007, and I deeply regretted not having purchased that wine.”
ITALY- TUSCANY
Altesino Brunello di Montalcino 2007 ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino is beautiful in this vintage. Layers of dark red cherries, flowers, licorice and tobacco caress the palate in this generous, expressive Brunello. The 2007 presents an intriguing combination of classic Sangiovese aromas and flavors with the generosity and radiance of the vintage. The 2007 Brunello was made from vineyards in several sub-zones in Montalcino and was aged in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.”
Tua Rita Redigaffi Toscana 2010 ($249.95) $199 special
Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2010 Redigaffi is even more impressive with seamless integration of ripe fruit and oak spice that meet each other perfectly in the middle. It soars to new heights of elegance and power, imparting beautiful tones of black fruit, polished river stone, bacon fat and black pepper as it makes its steady ascent. The mouthfeel is fleshy and generous and there is plenty of backbone here to carry the wine forward throughout the years.”
Antinori Tignanello 2010 ($119.95) $99 special
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Antinori’s 2010 Tignanello is stunning, as it has been since I started tasting the component wines in 2011. Firm yet sweet, silky tannins form the backbone for this gorgeous, vivid wine. Dark red cherries, plums, cloves, mint and sage inform a Tignanello that impresses for its delineation, nuance and power. Clean, saline notes support the mineral-drenched finish. The 2010 isn’t huge, but rather is a vertical wine endowed with tremendous energy and vibrancy. I can’t remember a Tignanello with this much crystalline tension and pure energy. Simply put, the 2010 Tignanello is a magnificent, towering wine from Antinori.”
ITALY- ALTO-ADIGE
Foradori Manzoni Bianco 2012 ($29.95) $26 special
Foradori Teroldego Morei 2011 ($59.95) $49 special
Foradori Teroldego Sgarzon 2011 ($59.95) $49 special
ITALY- SICILY
Occhipinti SP68 Bianco 2012 ($27.95) $24 special
Occhipinti SP68 Rosso 2012 ($27.95) $24 special
Occchipinti Frappato 2011 ($39.95) $33 special
Occhipinti Siccagno 2010 ($39.95) $33 special
SPAIN- BIERZO
Descendientes de J Palacios Bierzo Corullon 2011 ($49.95) $37 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2011 Corullon nearly jumps from the glass in an explosion of violets, ripe peaches and acid strawberry, the fruit darker, a touch riper, with some organic notes of humus and peat, even mushroom. You can drink it now to enjoy the exuberant, exotic profile of the wine or let it rest for three years and enjoy later. It has superb precision and length. Corullon also benefits from blending different vineyards.”
Descendientes de J Palcios Bierzo Las Lamas 2011 ($119.95) $88 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2011 Las Lamas is a true expression of both the vintage and the vineyard, which is usually the most powerful of all the wines produced by the winery. Perhaps 2011 imprinted more character in the wine than 2010 did. The nose is full of blueberries, peach and gunpowder, wet slate, peat and smoke notes. It’s a powerful wine, this is the only vineyard where they have some clay mixed with the slate. Some fine-grained tannins hint at the need of a couple of years in bottle.”
SPAIN- PRIORAT
Alvaro Palacios Priorat Finca Dofi 2011 ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “The 2011 Finca Dofi is a blend of 95% Garnacha and 5% Syrah. It has another exuberant bouquet, like the older sister of the 2011 Gallotrops, endowed with beautifully defined floral aromas. There are hints of broom and fennel infusing the scintillating red fruit and a sorbet-like freshness. The palate is medium-bodied with a vibrant peppery entry, fanning across the mouth with succulent red currant and wild strawberry fruit. The acidity maintains superb balance, countering the 14.8% alcohol with ease. There is a firm underlying structure that is only exposed towards the long persistent, mineral-rich finish. Wonderful. Drink 2016-2030+”
Clos Mogador Priorat 2007 ($99.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 96 points “The flagship, the 2007 Clos Mogador is made up of 40% Garnacha, 20% Carinena, 20% Syrah, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is purple/black-colored with a sensational bouquet of mineral, truffle, espresso, black cherry, blueberry, and licorice. Dense and Reubenesque on the palate, it has great concentration, loads of savory fruit, impeccable balance, and several years of aging potential. Accessible now, this lengthy offering will be at its best from 2013 to 2027. It is one of the stars of the vintage in Priorat.”
Oregon Flat rate shipping- $17 any size single order,
www.vinopoliswineshop.com
We’re All White Now
Long wait – Just Arrived – Henri Boillot 2011
Henri Boillot Bienvenues Batard Montrachet 2011 ($299.95) $249 special
Burghound 94 points “This is also notably ripe but the aromas do not run to the exotic as the honeysuckle, apricot, white peach and subtle spice notes are entirely classic. There is an appealing succulence to the delicious, intense and strikingly fine medium-bodied flavors and while there is certainly a sense of focused power present on the long, clean and refined finish, this is essentially a Bienvenues of finesse.”
Henri Boillot Batard Montrachet Grand Cru 2011 ($349.95) $299 special
Burghound 95 points DON’T MISS! “There is just enough reduction present to suppress the nose though it seems reasonably clear that it is both ripe and clean. There is superb size, weight and mid-palate density to the mouth coating big-bodied flavors that ooze dry extract that does a fine job of buffering the firm acid spine on the very dry, even saline-infused finish. While I would call this a wine of finesse in the same vein as the Bienvenues, it is relatively fine in the context of the appellation. Either way, this delivers outstanding quality though be aware that it’s going to need plenty of cellar time.”
Henri Boillot Criots Batard Montrachet Grand Cru 2011 ($269.95) $219 special
Burghound 93 points “This is notably riper than the Caillerets with overtly exotic dried yellow fruit, spice and floral aromas. There is outstanding richness to the powerful and broad-shouldered flavors that possess a distinctly muscular mouth feel before culminating in an opulent, clean and very dry finish. This retains a fine sense of balance and while there is certainly fine complexity, it isn’t at the same level as displayed by the other grands crus in the range.”
Henri Boillot Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Embrazees 2011 ($79.95) $69 special
Burghound 90 points “A discreet application of oak surrounds the notably ripe aromas of several different yellow orchard fruit scents along with hints of the exotic. There is an appealing succulence to the broad-scaled flavors that manage to retain a fine sense of detail on the lightly mineral-driven, saline and vibrant finish. If this can add a bit more depth with time in the cellar my score may prove to be overly conservative.”
Henri Boillot Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Chaumees 2011 ($84.95) $69 special
Burghound 91 points ‘OUTSTANDING’ “This is aromatically quite different from the Embrazées with an exceptionally pure and cool nose that features extract of white orchard fruit, lemon zest, wet stone and subtle spice nuances. There is a sophisticated mouth feel to the generous yet refined middle weight flavors that possess a remarkably well-delineated, even chiseled finish that avoids any hint of austerity.”
Henri Boillot Puligny- Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Mouchere 2011 ($109.95) $88 special
Burghound 94 points ‘DON’T MISS! OUTSTANDING’ “A very mild hint of reduction reduces the expressiveness of the otherwise cool and pure floral, citrus rind, stone and soft spice notes. There is plenty of volume to the rich, intense and mouth coating middle weight flavors that exude a fine minerality on the gorgeously complex, strikingly well-delineated and bone dry finish. This saline-infused and clearly built-to-age effort is spectacular.”
Henri Boillot Meursalt 1er Cru Charmes 2011 ($99.95) $79 special
Stephen Tanzer 91-93 points “Pale, bright yellow-green. Subtle aromas of lemon, vanilla, white flowers and hawthorn. Silky and creamy on the palate, with a fine-grained texture and a touch of salinity. A delicate style of Charmes with an understated, slowly building finish. All in finesse.”
Henri Boillot Meursalt 1er Cru Poruzot 2011 ($99.95) $75 special
Burghound 91 points ‘OUTSTANDING “This is quite floral with additional aromas of white peach, yellow orchard fruit and resin. There is good volume and plenty of power to the sappy and mouth coating medium weight plus flavors that possess fine depth and excellent persistence. This is a big but balanced wine and very Poruzots in character.”
Henri Boillot Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Combettes 2011 ($119.95) $99 special
Burghound 93 points ‘SWEET SPOT OUTSTANDING’ “(the first vintage of this wine for Boillot, following his recent purchase of this parcel): Pale green-tinged color. Sexy aromas of lemon, lime, ripe stone fruits and hazelnut. Lush and fine-grained, with silky flavors of stone fruits and hazelnut. Can’t quite match the Folatieres for finesse, but this has more volume and power.”
Henri Boillot Puligny-Montrachet Les Perrieres 2011 ($109.95) $88 special
Burghound 93 points ‘SWEET SPOT OUTSTANDING’ “A cool and pure nose features notes of citrus peel, pear, apple, wet stone and white peach. There is a lovely sense of refinement and underlying tension to the medium-bodied flavors that also coat the mouth with plenty of dry extract before culminating a saline mineral-driven finish. This is terrific.”
Henri Boillot Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Pucelles 2011 ($119.95) $99 special
Burghound 94 points ‘DON’T MISS! OUTSTANDING’ “A strikingly well-layered, elegant and pure nose of honeysuckle, apple, pear and notably ripe white orchard fruit aromas are trimmed in soft wood. There is a lovely sense of freshness to the cool and restrained yet succulent medium weight flavors that possess a highly sophisticated mouth feel before terminating in a balanced, classy and stunningly intense finish. This offers absolutely crystalline purity and epitomizes Pucelles at its finest.”
Chehalem RR Winery – Historic Series
Winery Cellar Released – Arriving This Week
David Schildknecht in The Wine Advocate “The affable, insightful, and tireless advocate of Willamette Valley viticulture, ex-chemist Harry Peterson-Nedry planted Ridgecrest Vineyards – the path-breaking viticultural incursion on Ribbon Ridge – in 1980, bottling his first estate wine a decade later. In 1993, Bill and Cathy Stoller became partners with Peterson-Nedry and planted their own vineyard in the Dundee Hills. In 1995, Peterson-Nedry purchased from friends – and subsequently re-grafted a significant portion of – Corral Creek Vineyards on the side of Parrett Mountain, where the present utilitarian winery is located, and since then, another slice of Ribbon Ridge contiguous with Ridgecrest, dubbed Wind Ridge, has come into production. Peterson-Nedry has been an eloquent proponent of Willamette Valley white wines, as well as of a style of Pinot designed to capture bright fruit, what he calls “fine-boned structure,” and elegance, and to avoid any heavy or cosmetic impression.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2004 ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Though light in color and potentially an early drinker (two traits that are common for 2004 Oregon Pinots), the 2004 Pinot Noir RR Ridgecrest Vineyards is outstanding. Its superb aromatics display Asian spices, red cherries, plums, and candied black cherries. This medium to full-bodied effort is rich, dense, well-balanced, and sappy. A concentrated wine, it boasts considerable cherry-dominated fruit in its long character.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2005 ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Distinctly spicy, with lots of black pepper and clove character weaving through the lithe cherry and plum fruit, which lingers against refined tannins and lively acidity. This winery was formerly Ribbon Ridge Vineyards. Best from 2010 through 2016. 536 cases made.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2006 ($69.95) $59 special
Josh Raynolds 92 points “Saturated red color. Cherry-cola, blackberry and rose on the nose. Vibrant red and dark berry flavors are given depth by sweet cola and licorice qualities and framed by velvety tannins. Suavely blends richness with vivacity and finishes with echoes of sweet dark berries and candied flowers. This is really sexy.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2007 ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2007 RR Ridgecrest Vineyards exemplifies the elegance that could be attained in that challenging year. Coming in at only 13.0% alcohol, it proffers terroir-driven aromas, lots of spice, and enticing red fruit aromas. On the palate more spice notes emerge along with a vibrant underpinning of acidity. This nicely proportioned offering is likely to see its 15th birthday in fine form.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2008 ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Cinnamon, wet earth and clove overtones add a savory touch to the dark berry flavors in this lean, firm-textured Pinot. The finish keeps developing with successive sips. Best from 2013 through 2018. 630 cases made” Josh Raynolds 93 points “Deep, bright red. Aromas of black raspberry, Asian spices and cola, with slow-building floral character. Sappy and deeply pitched, offering lush dark berry flavors that pick up spiciness with air. Brighter and nervier on the finish, which shows outstanding energy and persistence.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2009 ($69.95) $59 special
Josh Raynolds 92 points “Vivid ruby-red. A heady bouquet evokes candied red and dark berries, cola, incense and dried rose. Ripe and fleshy on entry, then tighter in the mid-palate, offering intense black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a supple texture. Dusty tannins add shape to the long, gently sweet, smoky finish.”
Chehalem RR Ridgecrest Vineyard Ribbon Ridge 2010 ($69.95) $59 special
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Arriving This Week
All Here By Friday
Failla Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2012 ($39.95) $29 specialFailla Chuy Vineyard Chardonnay 2011 ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Advocate 92+ points “Layers of tropical fruit, white truffles, almonds and dried pears flow effortlessly from the 2011 Chardonnay Chuy Vineyard. This is an unusually dense, concentrated wine for the Sonoma Coast, particularly in this vintage. Elements of exoticism give the Chuy much of its beguiling, captivating personality. Chuy was planted in 1964. The head trained vines are dry farmed. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.”
Failla Keefer Ranch Chardonnay 2011 ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “Lemon oil, grapefruit and crushed rocks all take shape as the 2011 Chardonnay Keefer Ranch shows off its focused, vibrant personality. This is one of the more pointed, intensely saline Chardonnays in the lineup. Transparent, vivid and totally alive in the glass, the 2011 impresses for its balance and crystalline purity. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “Easily my favorite of the 2011 whites, and comprised of 64% Roussanne, 26% Grenache Blanc and 10% Picpoul Blanc, the 2011 Esprit Blanc de Tablas offers up a beautifully clear, detailed and balanced profile with plenty of white peach, orange rind, buttered toast, cream and hints of hazelnut all emerging from the glass. Medium-bodied, silky and polished on the palate, with excellent acidity and freshness, this beauty can be consumed now, or cellared for a decade. Drink now-2026.”Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas Rouge 2011 750ml ($59.95) $49 special
Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas Rouge 2001 375ml ($31.95) $27 special
Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas 2011 Magnum ($119.95) $99 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “A blend of 40% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Counoise, the 2011 Esprit de Tablas has a core of sweet black raspberry and cassis that is cut by more savory, meaty nuances, pepper and spice. Medium to full-bodied, rich and beautifully textured, with ripe tannin, it’s a more streamlined, fresh version of the cuvee that relies more on elegance and complexity than sheer depth and richness. It will have 10-12 years of longevity.”
Colgin Tychson Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 ($399.95) $319 special 7 bottles available
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill is a gorgeous wine laced with dark red fruit, flowers and spices. It reveals the silkiest of tannins and remarkable grace throughout. All of the aromas and flavors wrap around beautifully to a deep, sensual finish layered with sweet floral notes. This is a sensual, totally dazzling Cabernet. In 2009 the blend is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024”Colgin Tychson Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 ($349.95) $299 special 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 94 points “The dense purple-colored 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard exhibits notes of cassis, charcoal and toast in a full-bodied, velvety textured, concentrated style. The tannins are ripe and the wine reveals impressive levels of richness as well as intensity. The final blend is virtually all Cabernet Sauvignon and the wine can be drunk now or cellared for 20 or more years.”
Colgin Tychson Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 ($349.95) $299 special 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 98 points “From Colgin`s first-growth quality estate vineyard, Tychson Hill, located north of St. Helena, on the western slopes, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard is performing far better out of bottle than it did from cask. An extraordinary bouquet of flowers, cedar, tobacco leaf, black currants, blueberries, chocolate, and scorched earth scents is followed by a wine of prodigious concentration, purity, depth, and sweet tannins. An amazing effort for this vintage, it is a compelling bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon”
Colgin Tychson Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 ($449.95) $399 special 1 bottle available
Robert Parker 98 points “Black truffles, asphalt, graphite, blueberries, and I de cassis aromas soar from the glass of the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard (168 cases). A wine of extraordinary nobility, it possesses a steely, well-delineated mouthfeel, full body, and enormous wealth of richness and length. This profound Cabernet Sauvignon is a candidate for wine of the vintage.”
3 bottles available
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2009 Syrah IX Estate has developed beautifully over the last year. A blast of heady aromas and flavors burst from the glass in a wine endowed with serious depth. The 2009 stands out for its dazzling inner perfume and balance. Sweet spices, licorice and tobacco all add complexity, while firm mountain tannins frame the saline, focused finish. Although gorgeous today, the 2009 should continue to provide immense pleasure for at least another decade. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021.”Colgin Syrah IX Estate 2008 ($199.95) $149 special 7 bottles available
Robert Parker 94 points “Interesting French-like Syrahs are also made from the estate’s steep hillside vineyards. The 2008 IX Syrah Estate is performing even better than it did last year from barrel. Juicy bacon fat, roasted meat, grilled herb and smoky notes are classic northern Rhone Syrah characteristics. A floral component suggests some Viognier could be co-fermented, but this is 100% Syrah. The wood is well-concealed in this full-bodied, delicious wine. It is capable of a decade or more of cellaring”
Colgin Syrah IX Estate 2004 ($229.95) $179 special 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 96 points “These wines are macerated for 35-45 days, and given frequent pump-overs as well as punch-downs. They are aged completely in French oak. The floral-filled 2004 IX Syrah Estate (486 cases) offers super-pure blue and blackberries intermixed with hints of new saddle leather and meat. High but sweet tannins, powerful flavors, and an overall sense of poise characterize this stunning effort.”
Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel 2010 375ml ($59.95) $39 special
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Rich golden yellow. Luscious aromas of candied pineapple, lemon oil and acacia honey on a bed of smoky botrytis. The succulent weight of papaya fruit is levitated by crisp minerality on the palate. A fine balance of creamy fruit and herbal spice on the seductive, very long finish.”
The average listed price in the USA is $100 / 750ml bottle
Donnhoff Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese 2010 ($49.95) $33 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Cherry blossom, lily, and peony scent Donnhoff’s 2010 Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese, persisting on the palate accompanied by succulent white peach and refreshing lime. As with this year’s Kabinetts, here is buoyancy and elegance along with a lusciously-lingering, kissed-stone finish. Look for at least 15 years of delight.”
The average listed price in the USA is $41 / bottle
Donnhoff Oberhauser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett 2010 ($34.95) $26 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “Enhanced levity to Donnhoff’s 2010 Oberhauser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett, even when compared with the corresponding Krotenpfuhl, may well be the effect of these vines’ literally slate underpinnings. In any event, this displays a lovely hint of creaminess allied to refreshment, and features a dynamic finishing interaction of fresh lemon and grapefruit, herbs, and wet stone. I would anticipate 12-15 years of high-performance.”
Selbach-Oster Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Beerenauslese 2006 375ml ($119.95) $79 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “A racy style, sporting lime, dried apple and peach flavors. Has a glycerol texture and finishes cleanly. There’s a lot packed into the slim frame. Drink now through 2032. 140 cases made”
The average listed price in the USA is $111 / bottle
Pavelot Savigny Les Beaune 2010 ($44.95) $24 special
Burghound 88 points “Here the fruit is ripe though distinctly different as the Savigny style earth character is quite prominent on the somber dark pinot fruit nose. There is a velvety texture to the supple and relatively forward flavors that possess good concentration and fine balance on the sappy finish. This isn’t an especially elegant effort but it is certainly delicious and satisfying.
Hillaire Chateauneuf du Pape Petits Pieds d’Armand 2008 ($59.95) $33 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “A very stylish, perfumy version, with alluring incense and black tea aromas giving way to a silky palate loaded with kirsch, pepper, shiso leaf and lingering plum skin notes. The long finish lets a hint of anise check in. Best from 2011 through 2022”
Riecine Chianti Classico Riserva 2006 ($49.95) $24 special
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Good medium, bright red. Pure mineral-driven aromas of sour red cherry, raspberry and sweet spices, with a hint of licorice. Nicely delineated and sweet, with a strong red cherry quality complicated by nuances of blackcurrant and flint. Finishes long and smooth, with a captivating violet lift. Readers may also want to look for the 2005 Riserva, which is similarly excellent.”
Solaria Brunello di Montalcino 2004 ($59.95) $30.90 special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Plum, cedar and leather aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with a lovely density of ripe fruit and a soft, velvety textured finish. Ripe and beautiful. An opulent wine that opens on the palate. This is the best ever from this estate.”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2007 Barolo Rocche emerges from the glass with freshly cut roses, sweet berries and spices. The Rocche is always the most open of Brovia’s single vineyard Baroli. In 2007 the wine has an extra dimension of textural richness that makes it incredibly appealing even at this young stage. Floral notes reappear on the silky, pure finish. This is a fabulous showing, but the wine will be even better in a few years”
The average listed price in the USA is $82 / bottle