Vinopolis Monday Newsletter 09/13/21

New Weekend – New Oregon Arrivals

 

Cameron Winery Reserve Chardonnay Dundee Hills 2019 750ML ($39.95) $36 special, 9 bottles in stock now

Winery Note: “The ‘Reserve’ level of Cameron Chardonnay is an incredible deal.  Made of declassified barrels of Clos Electrique and Abbey Ridge, so without the new oak that the lower level bottling sees, this wine shows facets of the grace and intensity of Abbey and the Clos without the price tag of those higher end bottlings.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Belle Pente Pinot Noir Willamette Valley2017 750ML ($24.95) 21.90 special, 24 bottles in stock now

Winery Note “This 2017 version of our ultimate “week-night wine” is a classic (and classy!) blend of 50% each Dundee Hills and Yamhill-Carlton fruit.  For those of you with a Burgundian bent, that is like like having a “simple” Bourgogne Rouge with all the fruit sourced exclusively from vineyards in Gevrey-Chambertain and Vosne-Romanee!…As our first 2017 Pinot to be released, this wine provides an intriguing introduction to this terrific vintage.  A Pinot with pedigree, the 2008 and 2013 renditions were the highest rated wines in the New York Times annual Oregon Pinot “round-up”, and the best values.  Our Willamette Valley bottling has been regularly featured as a premium glass pour Pinot at great restaurants around the country.  And it has been the ‘go to’ Wednesday night wine for savvy Pinot-philes everywhere since its first release in the 1998 vintage.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Shea Wine Cellars Estate Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 6 bottles in stock now

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Deep magenta. Spice-laced red and dark berry, cherry cola and floral pastille scents take on a savory herb quality with air. Shows very good depth and breadth on the palate, which offers appealingly sweet red and blue fruit preserve, mocha and black tea flavors and a hint of allspice. Gains energy with air and repeats the floral note on a long, gently tannic finish that leaves a bitter cherry note behind.”


This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Patricia Green Cellars Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($36.95) $33 special, 6 bottles in stock now

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Vivid ruby. Expressive boysenberry, cherry liqueur, musky earth and floral scents are energized by a building mineral quality. Sweet and penetrating in the mouth, offering concentrated red and blue fruit, spicecake, lavender pastille and licorice flavors that become livelier with aeration. Gently chewy tannins frame a long, juicy finish that repeats the floral and blue fruit notes. 15% new oak.”

Paul Gregutt-Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Editor’s Choice. One of the winery’s biggest production Pinots, this deftly expresses its core of blueberry, blackberry and black cherry fruit, in a textured, mineral-soaked framework. Light scents and streaks of cola and tobacco contribute more detail and depth. An early release, this should continue to develop and drink well over the next five to eight years.”

Wine Spectator 92 points “A quietly brooding red, featuring a structured backbone that’s paired with deep blueberry and cherry flavors, accented by stony mineral and herb tea details.

 

Patricia Green Cellars ‘Estate Vineyard – Old Vine’ Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge 2019 750ML ($44.95) $34.50 special, 6 bottles in stock now

 

The Eyrie Vineyards Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2017 750ML ($36.95) $33 special, 6 bottles in stock now

Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 92 points “Pale ruby, the 2017 Pinot Noir Estate is classically styled, with scents of red and black berry fruit and accents of forest floor, tobacco and aniseed. The light-bodied palate is juicy and soft, with intense, earth-laced fruits and a long, spicy finish.”

James Suckling 94 points “A blend of all five Eyrie sites, this gives a gauge on the 2017 harvest here, as one that delivered fresh and complex style. Red-cherry, raspberry, blueberry and leafy aromas with gently earthy and spicy tones in equal measure. The palate has a very smooth core of fleshy red-cherry flavors and carries a velvety tannin texture long and fresh. Seriously complex pinot. Drink or hold.”

 

The Eyrie Vineyards Original Vines Reserve Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2017 750ML ($79.95) $71.90 special, 6 bottles in stock now

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95 points “Glistening red. A highly complex bouquet evokes fresh red berries and cherry, along with suave Asian spice, potpourri and mineral accents. Shows superb delineation on the palate, offering vibrant, spice-tinged red fruit liqueur, rhubarb and spicecake flavors that pick up a strong floral pastille nuance as the wine opens up. Finishes extremely long and lively, with fine-grained tannins providing shape and discreet grip to lingering raspberry, mineral and floral notes.”

James Suckling 96 points “Very pure, fragrant red-berry and cherry aromas here with a fresh, sweetly fragrant and spicy edge, as well as forest wood. The palate has such volume and completeness with a very succulent, red-cherry core that has effortless depth and pure-fruit flavor. Very fresh finish. Drink or hold.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Shop our full selection of wines from Oregon on our web store now!

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Featured New Arrival

 

Paolo Scavino:

 

Barolo’s Modern-ish Master

 

Scavino is one of the truly great estates in Barolo, a region with no shortage of famous names. Despite a recent trend towards a more traditional approach, the wines still skew modernist. Rich and powerful in their youth, their true greatness develops after time in the cellar – something that can’t be said about all of Scavino’s modernist peers. Complex and nuanced upon release, the wines are built to age. With access to some of Barolo’s most prized vineyards and a winemaking team that embraces the best of both modern and traditional techniques, the wines are arguably the smartest buys in Barolo today.

 

Newly Arrived from Paolo Scavino:

 

Paolo Scavino Bricco Ambrogio Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 12 bottles in stock now

Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “Located in Roddi, the 2017 Barolo Bricco Ambrogio is marked by perfume of chalky earth, violets, and kirsch. The palate moves into dark fruits, with ripe currant, sweet tobacco, and tannins that emerge on the finish. Hold for 2-4 years and drink 2024-2042. Helmed by fourth generation winemaker Elisa Scavino, the estate owns and manages 30 hectares spanning eight of the 11 communes of the Barolo region and is based in Castiglione Falletto. Since 2007, they have implemented the use of a netted, submerged cap cylindrical system developed by Elisa’s father, Enrico, which achieves a delicate extraction during fermentation. They have moved to slower, longer fermentation periods, and as of 2018 will only be utilizing large casks. In the vineyard, there is great attention to the compression of the soils, creating a healthy ecosystem rich in oxygen and microorganisms and a sustainable approach.”

Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2017 Barolo Bricco Ambrogio is laced with succulent black cherry, mocha, licorice, dark spice and lavender. The Bricco Ambrogio is usually a bit juicier, while the 2017 is decidedly on the lighter side.”

 

Paolo Scavino Bric del Fiasc, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($99.95) $88 special, 11 bottles in stock now

Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2017 Barolo Bric del Fiasc is another gorgeous wine in the line up from the Scavino family. Readers will find a Barolo that is more nuanced and less bombastic than in the past. Bric del Fiasc has plenty of power on its own, so this style works so well. Dried rose petal, mint, spice, kirsch and iron all blossom with a bit of coaxing. I can’t wait to see how it ages.”

Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Bric Del Fiasc has pure aromatics of stony graphitic earth, licorice, violets, and cherry liqueur. The palate is balanced, with a full structure, noted by dried apricot, blood orange, and cinnamon. The Bric del Fiasc has both floral lift as well as noble structure and has a refreshing nature. Drink 2024-2046.”

Wine Spectator 94 points “Aromatic, this red offers rose, plum, cherry, licorice, leather and spicy tobacco notes. Firm, yet surprisingly open and balanced at this stage. Remains fresh and long on the savory finish. Best from 2024 through 2038. —B.S.”

 

Paolo Scavino Carobric, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 12 bottles in stock now

Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2017 Barolo Carobric is one of the standouts in this range, as it often is. It has an extra dimension of depth and volume that works so well here. Sweet red cherry, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, anise and brambly notes build as this striking, expressive Barolo shows off its considerable charm. What a pretty wine it is.”

 

Paolo Scavino Monvigliero, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 12 bottles in stock now

Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Barolo Monvigliero is classy and polished right out of the gate. Sweet dark cherry, rose petal, mint and cinnamon are some of the nuances that open in the glass. Even with all of its immediacy, the 2017 has plenty of tannin. I would prefer to cellar it for at least a few years. The 2017 is undoubtedly an attractive wine, but its best days lie ahead.”

Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “From the northern MGA within Verduno, the 2017 Barolo Monvigliero is soft and floral, with crushed violets, ripe black raspberry, and licorice candy. The palate is drying, with cherry pit, sweet herbs, and turned earth. Ripe yet balanced, drink or hold 2022-2040.”

 

Paolo Scavino Prapo, Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 12 bottles in stock now

Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2017 Barolo Prapò is yet another stellar wine in this range. Dark and brooding in the glass, the Prapò expresses all of the natural weight of this Serralunga cru, but with more overt fruit and a bit less tannic heft than is often the case. That should make the 2017 a real pleasure to drink, with just a handful of years in the cellar. Succulent black cherry, licorice, menthol, gravel and cured meats build into the heady finish.”

 

Paolo Scavino Ravera Barolo DOCG2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 11 bottles in stock now

Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2017 Barolo Ravera is dazzling. Deep, potent and virile, the 2017 has a lot to say, but it won’t be ready to drink anytime soon. Black cherry, graphite, licorice, smoke, game, lavender and licorice convey a real impression of gravitas that is reinforced by the wine’s overall feel. This powerhouse Barolo is magnificent today in a sort of old-school meets new-school style.”

 

Also In Stock Now from Paolo Scavino:

 

Paolo Scavino Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2016 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now

Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “Showing Enrico Scavino’s signature at the bottom of the label, this is a classic expression of Barolo. The Paolo Scavino 2016 Barolo offers impeccable balance and an all-pleasing approach. There is something for everyone, especially die-hard Nebbiolo lovers, with energy, power, aromatic finesse and elegant tannins. Fruit for this wine is sourced from a half-dozen vineyard sites from across the appellation, so you get some of the power of Serralunga d’Alba and the precision of Castiglione Falletto. The scope of this wine is wide and broad, offering sweeping panoramic views of this unique grape from Piedmont. This is a terrific value.”

Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Fragrant blue flower and perfumed berry aromas mingle with whiffs of dark culinary spice and forest floor. Tightly knit and loaded with finesse, the full-bodied palate features juicy cherry, strawberry compote, star anise and a hint of white pepper alongside taut, polished tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2022–2030. -Kerin O’Keefe”

James Suckling 95 points “A very pretty, floral Barolo with rose petals, cedar and sandalwood, as well as strawberries and cherries. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, very fine and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs three or four years to soften a little. Try after 2022.”

 

Paolo Scavino Ravera Barolo DOCG 2015 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 8 bottles in stock now

Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 94 points “Here is another rookie in the lineup for Paolo Scavino. The Ravera vineyard was purchased in 2015, at 2.7 hectares and about 360 meters in altitude. It is their highest vineyard and the last to be harvested every year. This east-facing parcel is never too hot, always showing cooler-climate conditions than the others, with fine tannins and a good dose of acidity. The 2015 Barolo Ravera is a very tight and and precise wine, with notes of exotic tea that follow blackberry, dried cherry and licorice. This is a great new addition to the Scavino portfolio at this time of important changes for the winery.”

 

Paolo Scavino Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva, Barolo DOCG 2013 750ML ($219.95) $199 special, 23 bottles in stock now

Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 97 points “The 2013 Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva was released in January of 2019, and once again it looks to be a top prize. Licorice and flowers dominate the bouquet, and its beautiful red fruit is generous throughout. This wine has always been a beauty and consistently has had a high price tag to reflect that quality, going back to the first vintages of the 1990s. It has regularly sold for about $200 every year for the last decade. These vines are old, some of them very old (reaching the ripe age of 60 years old in 1990s, when many of them were replanted with carefully selected clones), producing an elegance and concentration that brings intensity and a high standard of aromas. This Barolo without a doubt shows its pedigree and a quality of noble perfumes that demonstrate characteristics of the greatest Nebbiolo vintages, all delivered with excellent concentration. The magic lingers on the palate, right up to the finish.”

James Suckling 95 points “Aromas of white truffles and dried red cherries here with an earthy nuance that makes for a complex and compelling nose. The palate has a deep and dense shape and delivers a wide array of rich cherry and plum flavors. Some handy spice here, too. Drink or hold.”

 

Shop the full selection of Barolos on our web store now!

Featured New Arrival:

 

Cantine Lonardo

 

Aglianico, also known as “The Nebbiolo of the south” has largely flown under the radar since its heyday in the Ancient Era. Thought to have been imported by Greek visitors to Campania, the Roman Empire used Aglianico to create an exclusive wine consumed by Rome’s elite. This particular wine called Falernum was mentioned by Pliny, Aurelius and Horace in literature and can even be seen advertised in the ruins of Pompeii’s bars.

 

Fast forward a few thousand years and we have Cantine Lonardo, one of the best kept secrets of Campanian wine, known for their commitments to traditional varieties and farming practices. Lonardo’s Taurasi is made from 35-81 year old Aglianico planted at 1300 feet above sea level, grown organically in a tall pergola in ancient volcanic ash with a base of limestone and clay. Even with these rigorous growing standards, Lonardo will only keep around 50% of his Aglianico for use in Taurasi.

 

This commitment is evident in the finished product, featuring aromatics of violets, pipe tobacco, cedar and Bing cherries that command your full attention. There’s a characteristic “Italian Rusticity” to the wine that is evocative of new leather and antique wood, not unlike a high end cologne. On first taste there are extensive tannins that bring to mind Pu-erh, dark chocolate and blackberry seed, knit together with a lifted acidity. Primary flavors of roasted poblano, oregano oil, dried blueberry and fresh redcurrant contribute to an impressively long flavor presentation and finish.

 

This is a wine made for anything roasted, braised or red sauce based. Peking duck, Grilled Cabbage, Lasagna or BBQ pork ribs would all perform incredibly with this wine. Get at least two bottles, one for short term consumption and the other for longer aging.

 

Newly Arrived from Cantine Lonard:

 

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo ‘Grecomusc’ Campania IGT 2017 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 35 bottles in stock now

Ian D’Agata –Vinous 90+ points “Bright golden-yellow; this is much deeper in color than the 2016, perhaps a reflection of the hotter, drier 2017 vintage. Earthy nuances greet the nose and complement aromas of nectarine, jasmine and Asian pear. Then more Asian pear, yellow apple and ginger, complicated by a hint of grapefruit and repeating earth notes. Closes long and quite tactile, even youthfully chewy, with hints of chamomile and dried ginger. I find this 2017 to be made in a much riper style than usual, but it’s nowhere near being flat or over the top. Give it another year in bottle and it might develop further complexity; it seems to be in a slightly brooding stage right now.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The average listed price is $32

 

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Aglianico Rosso Irpinia, Campania 2016 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now

Case-12 Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Aglianico Rosso Irpinia, Campania 2016 750ML ($319.95) $259 special (that’s only $21.58/bottle!)

Ian D’Agata –Vinous 92 points “Deep ruby. Lively aromas of red fruits, minerals and herbs. Juicy and fruity in the mouth, showing hazelnutty nuances to the red fruit flavors. Finishes with good acid-fruit balance and nice tannins. A lovely wine that will age well, but provides irresistible drinking right now.”

 

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Coste Taurasi DOCG 2011 750ML ($89.95) $69 special, 36 bottles in stock now

Ian D’Agata –Vinous 94+ points “Deep ruby. Floral nuances complicate the red and dark berry, ink, sweet spice and flinty aromas and flavors. Dense and seamless, showing a multilayered personality and remarkable complexity of flavor. Finishes very long and with repeating, lingering hints of ink and flint.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Vigne d’Alto Taurasi DOCG 2011 750ML (89.95) $69 special, 36 bottles in stock now

Ian D’Agata –Vinous 94+ points “Deep ruby with a purple tinge. Reticent nose at first, only hinting at dark cherry, sassafras and sandalwood. Then very concentrated and dense, displaying almost opulent, sweet nuances of oaky torrefaction to the coffee, cocoa and dark cherry flavors. This outstanding Taurasi finishes extremely long, rich and seamless. It’s virtually impossible to pick between Lonardo’s two crus in 2011, and both will have many admirers.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Also In Stock Now from Cantine Lonardo:

        

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Taurasi DOCG, Campania 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 9 bottles in stock now

Eric Guido-Vinous 93 points “This 2013 is a classic Taurasi, showing a mix of red and black fruits, offset by rosy florals, savory herbs, minerals, leather tones, and a hint of balsamic spice. On the palate, silky textures give way to spicy red fruits, energized by zesty acids with cool-toned sweet herbs and saturating minerality. The 2013 Contrade di Taurasi finishes long, with a twang of acid making the mouth water, as grippy tannins settle in and echoes of black berries linger on.”

 

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Vigne d’Alto Taurasi DOCG 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 17 bottles in stock now

Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Perfumed and loaded with finesse, this single-vineyard wine opens with enticing scents of violet, ripe black-skinned fruit, new leather and baking spice. Made with 60- to 100-year-old plants, the smooth, delicious palate delivers succulent Marasca cherry, plum, licorice and nutmeg framed in velvety tannins, making it one of the more elegant expressions of Taurasi out there. A mineral note energizes the lingering finish. Drink through 2032.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The average listed price is $69

 

Contrade di Taurasi Cantine Lonardo Coste Taurasi DOCG 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 14 bottles in stock now

Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Cellar Selection. Aromas of spiced plum, truffle, iris, menthol and leather follow through to the juicy, concentrated palate along with fleshy blackberry, clove and licorice. Firm, velvety tannins provide support. Give this a few more years to fully unwind and develop even more complexity. Drink 2022–2035.”

 

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

The average price nationally is $67

 

New Arrival from Gulfi: Valcanzjria

 

It goes without saying that Gulfi does a fantastic job with their wines. Eschewing synthetic agriculture and emphasizing indigenous Sicilian varietals, the Valcanzjria is their only bottling that includes non-indigenous grapes. Comprised of Chardonnay and Carricante grown in the Iblei Hills, this is meant to be fuller bodied expression of white wine that you normally find in Sicily and Italy as whole.

 

The inclusion of Chardonnay was meant to add texture and body with the Carricante contributing aromatics and minerality. This gambit has paid off tremendously, with the blend delivering layers of citrus blossom, golden apple and pear, lemon tart, mafroukeh, volcanic minerality, and sea spray.

 

Gulfi ‘Valcanzjria’ Sicilia, Sicily 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 24 bottles in stock now

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

We offer 10 red wines in stock now from Gulfi. Shop the selections on our web store now!

 

 

Rosé Feature

 

You would be hard pressed to find a more picturesque growing region than the village of Cassis. Plucked straight out of a Monet, it was a fishing village before tourism and the wine industry proved more profitable. Domaine du Bagnol is a fixture in this scene, making some of the most compelling rosé in all of southern France.

 

Farmed organically and biodynamically since the estate’s inception in the 1980’s, the Bagnol estate is blessed with the Cap Canaille to her back and the Tramontane, Mistral and Gregal winds to the front. These climatic variables create lifted aromatics and acidity, and slow ripening to allow for allow for more varietal character. Direct pressed from 55 year old bushvines of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault this is a rosé that’s packed with flavor in spite of the pale color. Summer peach, watermelon flesh, strawberry, and herbes de Provence with a refreshing, saline finish that speaks to the proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

 

In stock and available now:

 

Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rose Provence 2020 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special, 7 bottles in stock now

Rosenthal Wine Merchant note “Cassis Rosé: The Rosé is produced from several parcels that comprise slightly less than 7 hectares of vineyards. The vineyards are clay and limestone, situated on a gentle slope with a north – northwest exposure. The blend is Grenache (55%), Mourvedre (31%) and Cinsault (14%). This Rosé is vinified by “pressurage direct, the must is chilled to 12 degrees Celsius, the wine ferments at 18 degrees Celsius until it is completely dry; then, the wine is bottled during the first three months of the following year after a light filtration.

 

Schloss Gobelsburg, a Cistercian monastic estate, is one of the oldest wineries in the Austrian Danube area with a documented history that dates back to 1171. All the vineyards are located on slopes and terraces around the valley of the river Kamp near the town of Langenlois and the village of Gobelsburg.

Gently vinified in steel and gravity fed in the winery, this is a rosé that emphasizes a lighter and more delicate character.

 

There’s a mixed plate of fruits ranging from white nectarine and strawberry, with additional notes of cherry blossom, yarrow and cranberry. Compatible with flavorful cuisine at any stage in the meal like Tagines, Tabbouleh, Galbijjim, Ramen or Macarons.  

 

Schlosskellerei Gobelsburg Cistercien Rose, Niederosterreich 2020 750ML ($21.95) $17 special, 26 bottles in stock now

Winery note “The valley of the Danube and its side-valleys belong to the ‘Cool climate’ areas of Austria. Some vineyards are even too cold for red wine making. Zweigelt, St. Laurent and Pinot Noir grapes grown in the cooler sites of Gobelsburg and Langenlois are used for this wine.”

Skurnik Wines note “Region: Kamptal. Zweigelt, St. Laurent, Pinot Noir. Appellation: Niederösterreich. Vineyard: Multiple cooler site vineyards. Soil Type Loess. Age of Vines (Average) 20 years. Sustainable. Fermentation and elevage in stainless steel.” Lafage

 

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

 

Shop our complete selection of rosé wines on our web store now!

 

Trending

 

A riotously fragrant release, this shows notes of dried lemon zest, sea salt, lime flower, and pear tart. Its creamy mouthfeel balances the bright, palate-cleansing acidity. One of the finest vintages to date.

Crowley Four Winds Vineyard Chardonnay, Willamette Valley 2019 750ML ($59.95) $49 special

Winery note “Jasmine, lemongrass and salty mist jump out of the glass initially. Striking minerality melts into honeysuckle nectar on the palate. Earthen complexity is backed by apricot and white peach which lead into an incredibly long finish. A touch of wood frames this wine with firm structure. Wente, Dijon & Draper clones.  Native fermentation. 200 cases.”

 

The Russian River Valley is world famous for its Chardonnay’s that combine the stylistic ripeness of California, with the acidity and backbone of Burgundy. The 2019 vintage defied all expectations and delivered even higher quality than the year before, with even wildfire season seeming to wait for harvest to finish. Expect the classic Hartford Court style of yellow pome, Jasmine blossom, Shoumei tea and sea salt with a medium body and long finish. This is the perfect wine for someone looking for a richer style of chardonnay that is still acid driven. We carry multiple styles of California Chardonnay in-house including Sandhi, Mt. Eden and Carpe Diem!

 

Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay Sonoma County 2019 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now

Case-12 Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay Sonoma County 2019 750ML ($359.95) $249 pre-arrival special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)

Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Readers looking for a pure, impeccably made Russian River Chardonnay should check out the 2019 Chardonnay Russian River Valley from Hartford Court. It has classic pineapple and honeyed orchard fruits, a rich, medium-bodied mouthfeel, good acidity, and subtle toasty, nutty background nuances. It’s ideal for drinking over the coming 4-5 years.”

Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2019 Chardonnay (Russian River) is a terrific appellation-level wine. Bright and finely cut, the 2019 is so well-balanced. Lemon peel and white flowers grace this enticing Chardonnay from Hartford. Bright acids and floral accents round out the finish nicely.”

Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2019 Chardonnay Russian River Valley was 100% barrel fermented in French oak barrels, 26% new, and aged for 9.5 months. It slips slowly, cautiously out of the glass with crushed rocks and sea spray scents over a core of green and yellow apples and Bosc pears plus a hint of marzipan. Medium-bodied, the palate bursts with apple and pear flavors with a racy backbone and savory finish. 15,000 cases were made.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Winemaker Todd Alexander is one of the hottest names in Washington. A 100-point talent, he made his name at the helm of Bryant Family, the cult producer in Napa, before journeying north to lead the team at Force Majeure. Now he’s the consulting winemaker at The Walls, a new project that offers outstanding value for top-class Washington wine. With bold reds that have rich fruit and powerful personalities, The Walls wines belong in the company of the true elite producers in the state, at prices that are significantly lower than their peers.

 

The Walls Vineyards ‘Wonderful Nightmare’ Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley 2018 750ML ($54.95) $44 special, 12 bottles in stock now

Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2018 Tempranillo Wonderful Nightmare comes from the Stoney Vine Vineyard and is a complex, exotic example of the variety, offering loads of herbes de Provence, peppered meats, charcoal, and violets, all supported by a wonderful core of ripe red, blue, and black fruits. With medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless texture, and ripe tannins, it’s another remarkable, pure, balanced wine from The Walls that can be drunk any time over the coming 10-15 years, if not longer.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Sperino is one of the leading lights of Alto Piemonte. Known for intense, aromatic reds, their rosato has become something of a cult favorite, and we’ve sold out quickly each of the last two years. We secured a significantly larger allocation this year, so it’s actually hitting the shelf, but we expect it to disappear post haste again. Sourced from a combination of vineyards that begin at 1,000 feet above sea level, featuring vines between 30-90 years old, with the varietals being primarily Nebbiolo (Or Spanna as it’s called locally) with a splash of Vespolina.

 

Proprieta Sperino ‘Rosa del Rosa’ Rosato Coste della Sesia, Italy 2020 750ML ($21.95) $19 special, 36+ bottles in stock now, 36+ bottles in stock now

Eric Guido Vinous 92 points “The 2020 is an understated and delicate rendition of Rosa Del Rosa. Nuances of peach tea, chamomile, green apple and hints of ginger can all be found with coaxing. It’s silky and pliant in feel, the vibrant acids and mineral tones mixing to create a tug-of-war of sweet and salty tension, as notes of ripe melon give way to pretty inner florals. This tapers off persistent, lightly structured and buzzing with residual energy, completely refreshing the palate with a twang of sour citrus. The Rosa Del Rosa is a blend of Nebbiolo and Vespolina. It’s very enjoyable already, but it will likely blossom further with a bit more time in bottle.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Coming from another highly lauded vintage in Tuscany, this release exhibits the best qualities of a super Tuscan without breaking your budget. Similar to the prized 2015 vintage, the 2016 was a warm year but marked by less heat spikes and more day-night temperature variation. What this equates to in the wine is black and purple fruited flavors like Bing cherry, Italian plum and crushed blackberry with lifted aromatics and linear acid. The tannin profile is equally developed, knitting the fruits together with polished leather, Guatemalan cigar and the classic terra-cotta rusticity of Tuscany. Unlike a lot of super tuscans, the Sangiovese and Bordeaux varietals are not jockeying for dominance and are seamlessly integrated. A fantastic value for the quality that won’t be repeated for some time!

 

Cresti Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino Do Ut Des Toscana IGT 2016 750ML ($54.95) $48 special, 36+ bottles in stock now

Case-6 Cresti Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino Do Ut Des Toscana IGT 2016 750ML ($349.95) $269 special (that’s only $44.83/bottle!)

Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Do Ut Des (a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a generous and expansive personality that hits the palate like a warm embrace from a favorite friend. This is a succulent and smooth red wine with thick layers of bold cherry, dried blackberry, leather, rose hip and scorched earth. In the mouth, the wine proceeds with medium- to full-bodied texture and elegantly contoured fruit flavors.”

Wine Spectator 94 points “Sleek and focused, with black currant, black cherry, plum, iron and tobacco flavors coursing through from start to finish. Tightly wound and vibrant, this lingers with subtle licorice and spice elements. Shows fine harmony and length. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2023 through 2036. 1,650 cases made, 200 cases imported. — BS”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Founded by Pablo Calatayud in 1995, Cellar Del Roure has made a name for itself by bucking tradition. This is no better illustrated than by Safra, made with the indigenous varietal Mando, using traditional lagar and amphorae during fermentation to preserve the natural structure and earthy flavors. Mando is described as being similar to Pinot Noir or Mencia and is largely extinct even within Valencia. This is largely due to Valencia’s history as breadbasket for Spanish agriculture, producing massive quantities of wine, olive oil and most famously oranges. This led to massive plantings of grapevines meant for bulk wine production, at the cost of historically premium sites and varietals.

 

Celler del Roure ‘Safra’ Valencia 2019 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now

Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2019 Safrà was produced with a base of Mandó, but it’s a different Mandó from Parotet, livelier and more fluid. They say it’s a red with the soul of a white. In any case, both wines change in 2019 with the addition of Arcos. They harvest the grapes early and use some 30% stems for the vinification in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts. This 2019 is a blend with 30% Arcos, an almost forgotten grape they are recovering and to which they are paying very much attention. Like many of the other wines, it matured in ancient buried 2,600-liter tinajas in their impressive 17th-century cellar. I’ve always liked the floral and aromatic expression of this wine, which has nice aromas and complexity, developing beautiful notes of sour cherries; and in the palate, it’s more serious than you expect, longer, deeper and very tasty. This is more ethereal than Vermell and less spicy that Parotet. I think it has gained in freshness and complexity with the addition of Arcos, which is part of the blend for the first time in 2019. In fact, this is better than ever! 20,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in June 2020.”

Decanter 93 points “Mainly Mandó grapes with Arcos (rather than Garnacha Tintorera as in previous blends) – a change that brings greater finesse to this aromatic wine. Bright, mid-weight, juicy, with sour cherries and cranberries and the faintest rasp of tannin. Fermented in stainless steel and matured in buried clay amphorae in the remarkable cellar. Organic. Drinking Window 2021 – 2024. -Sarah Jane Evans MW.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

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Domaine Dujac

 

Arriving Early October

 

The Burgundy house that needs no introduction, Domaine Dujac remains one of the biggest cult producers in the world. With record setting auction prices and a reputation for being at their prime after at least 30 years of bottle age; these are only for the most serious collectors. This is unlikely to change after the 2019 vintage delivered ripeness and concentration at a level that’s never been seen in history. The increased weather severity as a result of climate change made for an exceptionally small crop that still retained elegance. Quantities are extremely limited, and with even smaller harvest volumes in 2020 there’s no telling how much will be in the pipeline next year.

 

Arriving ETA Early October:

 

Domaine Dujac Les Gruenchers Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru 2019 750ML ($399.95) $359 pre-arrival special, 2 bottles available

Neal Martin-Vinous 91-93 points “The 2019 Chambolle-Musigny Les Gruechers 1er Cru has a tightly wound, perfumed bouquet with wilted iris aromas, hints of blood orange and mandarin infusing the dark cherry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly chalky opening that lends it a Morey-Saint-Denis like personality. Fine length, this will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle.”

Burghound 90-93 points “A slightly riper nose offers up notes of poached plum, black cherry, spice and a broader range of floral elements. There is a bit more vibrancy as well as more minerality to the succulent and seductively textured medium-bodied flavors that culminate in a naturally sweet if mildly warm finish. I quite like this, and it is a wine that should repay extended cellaring if desired.”

 

Domaine Dujac Chambolle-Musigny Cote de Nuits 2019 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special, 6 bottles available

Neal Martin-Vinous 90-92 points “The 2019 Chambolle-Musigny Village has a lovely bouquet that effortlessly intertwines subtle garrigues-like “bass” that comes from the stem addition, to the red fruit “treble”. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannins and superb acidity. This is very harmonious, lightly spiced and though not terribly persistent, there is such freshness and youthful vim and vigor, that this is going to be impossible to resist.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Domaine Dujac Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2019 750ML ($519.95) $469 pre-arrival special, 3 bottles available

Neal Martin-Vinous 95-97 points “The 2019 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru has an airy and generous bouquet with lifted black fruit, hoisin and light roasted chestnut aromas, all well defined. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a beautiful line of acidity, svelte and harmonious with a slightly grainy-textured finish. I adore the discrete crescendo in this Grand Cru and the unimposing but long aftertaste. “It’s been growing in stature over the last 10 to 15 years,” remarked Alex Seysses. Proof of that is evident by tasting this superb Charmes-Chambertin.”

Decanter 94 points “Produced from several parcel acquired by the domaine beginning in the 1970s. Some of these are located in Mazoyères and some in Charmes, proper. The vineyard was green harvested in 2019, a technique which used to be invariably applied, but now only as needed. The result is a wine of uncommon intensity for Charmes-Chambertin; a bit closed on the nose and very grippy on the palate. With time, however, it reveals substantial fruit and extract. Should open well with time. Drinking Window 2024 – 2049.”

Burghound 91-94 points “Here too the floral elements take center stage on the earthier and more sauvage-inflected dark pinot fruit and underbrush scents. There is also a relatively sleek mid-palate to the slightly bigger and tautly muscular flavors that firm up quickly on the youthfully austere and borderline rustic finale where a touch of warmth slowly emerges. At least some patience will be required.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Highlights in Stock Now from Domaine Dujac:

Domaine Dujac Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2017 750ML ($699.95) $599 special, 3 bottles in stock now

Decanter 97 points “The average age of the Seysses’ 1.95ha holdings in the Clos de la Roche are slightly older than those of neighbouring Clos St-Denis. Using fruit from five main parcels, it’s a very complete, self-confident wine with good density and concentration, sappy, spicy undertones, fine-grained fruit and tannins, and a very long, tapering finish.”

Wine Advocate 94+ points “Dujac’s 2017 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru is more reserved that the Clos Saint-Denis, unwinding in the glass with scents of red berries, plums, orange rind, cinnamon, peonies and sweet soil tones. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, serious and layered, with muscular structure, lively acids and a long, perfumed finish. While this remains a comparatively accessible, finesse-driven Clos de la Roche, at least a decade’s patience will be required to see this begin to realize its potential.”

Wine Advocate 93-95 points “The 2017 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru is an excellent wine in the making, offering up a complex bouquet of orange rind, warm spices, red cherries, rose petals, espresso roast and rich soil tones. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with excellent depth and dimension, velvety textured after the satin of the Clos Saint-Denis but similarly supple and elegant, with juicy balancing acids and a sapid finish. While this remains a charming, giving vintage, there’s enough structural tension here to suggest the wine will be sneakily long lived.”

Domaine Dujac Echezeaux Grand Cru Cote de Nuits 2018 750ML ($649.95) $549 special, 3 bottles in stock now

Neal Martin-Vinous 93-95 points “The 2018 Echézeaux Grand Cru had been racked the day prior to my visit. That said, the bouquet is very well defined, offering black cherries, raspberry, rosemary and pressed rose petal aromas that blossom with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannins, good depth and precision, revealing bitter cherry and a touch of balsamic toward the finish. Very good potential.”

William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92-94+ points “The 2018 Echezeaux Grand Cru is a promising cuvée in the making, mingling aromas of dark berry fruit, cassis and cherries with notions of burning embers, dried flowers and dark chocolate. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, broad and ripely tannic, with a layered and nicely concentrated core, lively acids, and a well-defined finish.”

Domaine Dujac Les Beaumonts Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($499.95) $359 special, 2 bottles in stock now

Decanter 95 points “A wine that is both juicy and wonderfully hedonistic, this classy cuvée is fermented with 75% whole bunches and aged in 70% new wood. Comparatively pale in colour, but certainly not lacking in depth or palate weight, it has some tannic grip and subtle wood to complement the plush, palate-caressing fruit. Deliciously drinkable.”

Neal Martin-Vinous 94-96 points “The 2018 Vosne-Romanée Les Beaux Monts 1er Cru has a subtle Asian influence on the nose, offering well-defined aromas of hoisin and wet limestone. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, quite saline in the mouth, with a sense of symmetry on the finish. Simply a class act.”

William Kelley-Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2018 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts exhibits a deep bouquet of cherries, plums, orange rind, smoked duck and spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple palate that’s succulent and charming, framed by powdery but not unduly assertive tannins.”

 

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Collector’s Corner:

Henri Prudhon:

The Paragon of Under-the-Radar Burgundy

 

“The quality that this domaine consistently achieves is nothing short of remarkable… I have said this before but I would go so far as to say that Domaine Henri Prudhon is one of, and perhaps even the most under rated producer in all of Burgundy. The style is ultra-pure and completely classic. Moreover, the wines sell for very reasonable prices so if you don’t need a famous name on a label to be happy, try a bottle from Prudhon and in either color.” – Allen Meadows, Burghound

Domaine Henri Prudhon is synonymous with their home village of St. Aubin. With two generations serving multiple terms as mayor of the village, all while continuing to work their vines they are as Burgundian as they come. While most of their vineyard holdings are within their home village, they have expanded under their 4th generation and now harvest fruit from Puligny-Montrachet, Chevalier-Montrachet and Gamay. In addition to organically farming in these storied villages, they are in possession of old vines and only plough their fields when deemed necessary.

In order to allow the individual character of these vineyards to shine, minimal new oak is used and every vineyard is fermented and bottled separately. This results in incredibly varied production, with some vineyards only filling two barrels a vintage. From the perspective of the growing year these should be incredibly rich and expressive wines, and perfectly suited for the house style of Prudhon, which practices barrel fermentation and extended lees aging. 2018 was one of the hottest and driest on record in Burgundy, giving a level of concentration not commonly seen in the cooler villages.

Henri Prudhon & Fils Puligny-Montrachet Les Enseignieres Cote de Beaune 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79   special, 10 bottles in stock now

Burghound 89-91 points “Outstanding. This is actually pretty similar to the Rue aux Vaches with a soupçon more floral influence but a bit less citrus character in evidence. The succulent, round and generously proportioned medium-bodied flavors possess a caressing and seductive palate impression, all wrapped in a sappy and sneaky long finish. This too is a quality Puligny villages that is worth your interest.”

 

Henri Prudhon & Fils La Chateniere Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 4 bottles available

Burghound 91 points “Outstanding Top Value. This is the first wine to display appreciable reduction and it’s enough to obscure the underlying fruit. The middle weight flavors are rich to the point of opulence as the plush and caressing mid-palate coats the palate with extract on the citrusy, dry and sneaky long finish. This too is really quite good.”

Henri Prudhon & Fils Sur Gamay Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($89.95) $57 special, 29 bottles available

Burghound 91 points “Outstanding Top Value. Smoky hints of mineral reduction combine with those of essence of pear and citrus peel. There is a bit less volume but better precision to the attractively textured, succulent and very rich medium weight flavors that possess fine depth on the well-balanced finale. This is lovely and worth considering.”

Henri Prudhon & Fils Saint-Aubin Le Ban Cote de Beaune 2018 750ML ($59.95) $44 special, 7 bottles available

“A markedly floral-suffused nose combines notes of exceptionally fresh and airy white orchard fruit with a variety of citrus and discreet spice whiffs. The delicious, energetic and focused middle weight flavors possess a bracing salinity on the lingering finale. To enjoy young.” -Allen Meadows, Burghound

Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Castets Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $55 special, 12 bottles available

Burghound 89 points “This is aromatically similar to the Le Banc but with even more floral influence. The succulent, round and attractively textured medium weight flavors possess notably better depth and length on the balanced, clean and appealingly dry finale. This well-made effort should repay a few years of keeping if desired.”

 

Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Perrieres Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 12 bottles available

Burghound 90 points “A cooler and slightly more elegant combination reflects notes of a panoply of white orchard fruit, lemon zest and pretty lilac and rose petal. The rich and relatively full-bodied flavors possess a good level of sappy dry extract that buffers the citrusy, dry and sneaky long finish. This caressing effort could also be enjoyed young or aged to good effect for a few years.”

Henri Prudhon & Fils Sur le Sentier du Clou Blanc Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2018 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 12 bottles available 

Burghound 89 points “Super-fresh aromas include those of pear, apple, white flower and a touch of mineral reduction, all of which is trimmed in discreet citrus elements. There is slightly better volume to the rich, round and delicious medium-bodied flavors that exude a subtle minerality on the dry and lingering finish. This needs to add depth which it may well do if allowed a few years of bottle age first.”