Vinopolis Newsletter 6-29-16


Fourth of July Delas Sale; Perrier Jouet Sale; Rose & Champagne Magnums; Arriving Next Week: Gulfi, Felsina, & Paitin!; Domaine Marc Colin; Schrader; Vougeraie; Produttori Case Pricing Ends Tomorrow; Extreme Deals: Cheaper by the Dozen

…and so it begins!

July 4th Sale: Delas Freres
Prices Expire at Midnight 7/4
Delas Freres Cote Rotie Seigneur de Maugiron 2010 750ML ($89.95) Was $69, Now $59
Wine Spectator 94 points
“Packed with lots of dark ganache, tapenade, tobacco, blackberry compote and freshly sliced plum fruit flavors, this really courses along with noticeable energy, while bramble, singed bay leaf and charcoal stud the finish dramatically. Best from 2015 through 2027.” WS
Robert Parker 91 points “The 2010 Cote Rotie Seigneur de Maugiron has fleshed out since last year offering notes of black olives, garrigue, licorice, forest floor, bacon fat, raspberries and black currants. This medium-bodied Cote Rotie veers more toward a Burgundy-styled wine than its Syrah-based peers in the Northern Rhone. Two extraordinary wines are the offerings Jacques Grange has fashioned from the Delas Freres holdings in the Cote Brune, the 2011 and 2010 Cote Rotie La Landonne.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $75

Delas Freres Crozes-Hermitage Le Clos 2004 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $39
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 89 points
“Medium red. Strong mineral notes accent fresh cherry and earthier tobacco and floral aromas. Solid and firmly structured, with a racy quality to the bright cherry and rhubarb flavors. This should age very well.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Delas Freres Crozes-Hermitage Le Clos 2006 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $39
Robert Parker 92 points
“The stunning, dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Crozes-Hermitage Les Clos exhibits smoky, roasted meat, garrigue, blackberry, cassis, new saddle leather, and charcoal aromas, sweet tannins, full-bodied power, and reserves of concentration and fruit. Consume it over the next decade. This cuvee has become one of the top three or four wines of the appellation. ”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Very racy, with dark fig and black cherry fruit crushed together, while hints of iron, mesquite and tobacco fill out the finish. Shows great drive and precision, despite its ample toast.”Delas Freres Crozes-Hermitage Le Clos 2013 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $49
Wine Advocate 93+ points
“Similar to the Domaine des Grands Chemins, yet with additional structure, the inky purple/ruby colored 2013 Crozes Hermitage le Clos has lots of minerality in its smoky, meaty, dark fruited profile. Medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated, structured yet balanced, give it 2-4 years of cellaring and enjoy over the following decade or more.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Delas Freres Hermitage Les Bessards 2004 750ML ($199.95) Was $149, Now $119
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 94 points
“Ruby-red. Very pungent, deep aromas of tobacco- and underbrush-laced red and blackcurrant. Powerful and rich, showing impressive sweetness to its potent cassis and blackberry flavors. Really stains the palate, finishing with exceptional purity and mineral tones. Whatever tannins are here (and you know there are plenty) are completely absorbed by the sheer fruit mass.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $180
Delas Freres Hermitage Les Bessards 2013 750ML ($249.95) Was $199, Now $189
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 95 points
“(aged in 70% new oak for 18 months): Inky ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of ripe dark berries, cherry liqueur, peppery spices and fresh flowers, backed by a hint of olive. Supple and appealingly sweet, offering intense, deeply concentrated blackberry and violet pastille flavors and a suggestion of star anise. Finishes pure, sweet and energetic on the penetrating finish, showing outstanding focus and slow-building tannins.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “Closed, tight and backwards, the 2013 Hermitage les Bessards is a big, full-bodied, burly wine that offers first rate purity in its black raspberry, ozone, liquid rock, and creosote-like bouquet. It has plenty of material and density, but will need 7-8 years of bottle age to become approachable. As normal, it comes all from the “Bas de Coteau” portion of the Bessards lieu-dit, was completely destemmed and saw 18 months in 30% new French oak.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $198.34
The average price is $200
Delas Freres Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes-Marquise de la Tourette  2013 ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79
Wine Advocate 94 points
“One of the gems in the vintage is the 2013 Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes, which comes from both the Bessards and Grandes Vignes lieux-dits on Hermitage Hill. Completely destemmed, then vinified in stainless steel and concrete tanks, the wine is aged 18 months in 30% new French oak; it offers terrific notes of dark fruits, graphite and ample minerality in a full-bodied, layered, ripe profile. It’s more approachable than the Les Bessards, yet will still have three decades of longevity.”

Perrier Jouet Sale
$11 off our already lowest-in-the-nation price!

Wine Re-Arrives July 8th

Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Brut, Champagne 2007 750ML ($199.95) Was $99, Now $88
Wine Enthusiast 95 points
“For Perrier-Jouët the symbols of the Belle Epoque are the house calling card. This prestige cuvée, in its stylish flowered bottle, has been released with good maturity, offering toast as well as fruit and a crisp, tight and mineral backdrop. There is an elegant style to the wine, fresh and with poise. Drink now.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Driven by smoky minerality, this firm and balanced Champagne offers a subtle palate of pineapple pâte de fruit, blackberry tart, lemon preserves and fleur de sel. Offers a long-lasting finish. Drink now through 2027. 600 cases imported.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $149

Bethel Heights
High scoring 2014’s

Just Arrived

Bethel Heights Vineyard ‘Aeolian’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Wine Spectator 95 points
“Aromatically pure, with currant, plum, chocolate, mineral and floral notes mingling effortlessly and continuing into a long and expressive mouthful of open-textured intensity and depth. Has terrific presence and length. Best from 2017 through 2024.”

Magnum arrives next week along with two additional cuvees:

Bethel Heights Vineyard ‘Aeolian’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 1.5L ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
(review is above)Bethel Heights Vineyard Flat Block Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points
“Ripe and vibrant, open-textured and centered on currant and plum fruit, picking up hints of wet stone and spice as the finish comes together harmoniously. Has presence and depth. Best from 2018 through 2024.”

Bethel Heights Vineyard ‘Justice Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($61.95) $51.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points
“Focused, expressive and refined, layering the generous currant, blackberry. tobacco and dill flavors into a seamless package, rolling gently into a long finish against lightly prickly tannins. Best from 2018 through 2024.”

Rose Magnums

Look to magnums for party-sized refreshment

We have seven options in-stock
and two all-time favorites arriving early July!

Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Bandol Rose, Provence 2015 1.5L ($59.95) $49 special, 15 magnums available
Winery note
“[Translated] This Rose is a blend of Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Grenache.  It is well built, with ample structure from the Mourvèdre, and an irresistible fleshy fruit flavor.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
 

Bodegas Muga Rosado, Rioja DOCa 2014 1.5L ($34.95) $28 special, 9 magnums available
Case-3 Bodegas Muga Rosado, Rioja DOCa 2014 1.5L ($81.95)
$75 special, 2 three-packs available
Wine Advocate 88 points
“The rosé from Muga called simply 2014 Rosado is a classical “clarete” from the Rioja Alta, produced with Garnacha and Viura and in 2014, exceptionally, a pinch of Mazuelo (Cariñena) all harvested at the same time. The full clusters are pressed directly and the different musts are blended and then put to ferment in well-seasoned oak vats where it matures in contact with the lees for some four months. It’s a pale, salmon-colored wine with a clean, focused nose and a light palate, that is pleasant, fresh and easy to drink. Bring out those lamb chops!” WA

 

Chateau de Lascaux Coteaux du Languedoc Rose 2014 1.5L ($39.95) $16.60 special, 4 magnums available
Case-6 Chateau de Lascaux Coteaux du Languedoc Rose 2014 1.5L ($219.95)
$89 special, 2 six-packs available (that’s only $/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points
“Light orange-pink. Pungent red berries and orange pith on the nose and in the mouth, with a subtle floral quality emerging as the wine opens up. Fleshy and dry, with an herbal flourish and a touch of bitterness emerging on the back half. Shows good power and cut on the finish, which leaves notes of anise and dried citrus fruits behind.” JR

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best 750ML BOTTLE is $17.50!

Chateau Margui Coteaux Varois Rose, Provence 2015 1.5L ($59.95) $49 special, 3 magnums available
Wine Enthusiast 90 points
“Organically grown grapes have produced a clear, crisp wine with freshness and lively acidity. These blend effortlessly into the red fruits and light squeeze of lemon juice. The wine is bright and ready to drink.”
40% Cinsault, 40% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Rolle.

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Chateau Peyrassol’ Rose, Provence 2015 1.5L ($79.95) $69 special, 7 magnums available
Importer note
“An elite cuvée from the Côtes de Provence appellation known for its brilliance in this category. The Château bottling is more full-bodied, more restrained, quite dignified; an elegant wine that should be married to the finest catches of the sea. Mostly Cinsault, with Grenache, Syrah and a touch of Rolle.”


Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Commanderie de Peyrassol’ Rose, Provence 2015 1.5L ($59.95) $49 special, 2 magnums available
Importer note
“Our workhorse rosé. The Commanderie cuvée is always a pale rose color, fresh and lively on the palate, nicely dry with a mineral finish. It is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault, with a touch of Ugni Blanc.”
Lucien Crochet Sancerre Pinot Rose, Loire 2015 1.5L ($79.95) $59 special, 6 magnums available
Importer note
“Gilles Crochet’s series of Sancerres are a defining element of our portfolio and stand at the pinnacle of this appellation. Likewise his Sancerre Pinot Rosé deservedly has its fanatical followers. This wine shows pristine balance, an artist’s “pink” to its tint and a discrete strawberry fruitiness that shows the charm of fine Pinot Noir. A wine that simply should not be missed!”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $63.99

Chateau Pradeaux Bandol Rose, Provence 2015 1.5L ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special, ETA early July
Importer note
“The Bandol Rosé from Pradeaux is perhaps the most serious wine of the entire category. Robust, rich, and complex with an ability to age gracefully, this wine is composed of 70% Mourvèdre and 30% Cinsault, taking its slight orange tint from the Mourvedre cépage.

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $63.99

Domaine Tempier Bandol Rose, Provence 2015 1.5L ($99.95) $89 pre-arrival special, ETA early July
Grapelive 93 points
“The steely and luxurious 2015 Domaine Tempier Rosé is a must have wine for summer, made up of a blend of 55% Mourvèdre, 25% Grenache, 20% Cinsault, it shows all the style and substance that is expected of this famous Domaine. The vitality in Lulu Peyraud and winemaker Daniel Ravier’s latest Rosé highlights the organic farming and clear focus in the cellar allowing terroir and soul to show through, this Rosé was crafted 50% by saignée and 50% by direct press, which allows the wine to have power, mouth feel and still be intensely vibrant and detailed. It spent 6 months in Cuves, large neutral cask to fresh out and heighten the textural pleasure, it is not as old school funky/cool as Chateau Simone or the Tibouren based Clos Cibonne, but still has good aging potential, even though with Tempier I can’t imagine waiting too long to drink this hedonistic rite of summer. The first impression of the 2015 is one of joyous reunion, the gorgeous hue of which you can’t help smile at, pinkish/orange, it invokes warm sunset images and romance with a play of mineral, wild lavender, spiced rosewater and tangerine leading up to sour cherry, watermelon, wet stones, bright saline, red peach, zesty citrus, ruby grapefruit and very faint soft wood sensation. There is a great play of tangy/savory elements set against a lavish and lush sorbet forwardness that appeals and this tension runs the length of this fine Rosé, it’s funny too people, while complaining at the price adore this wine, though I can’t help think it is a bargain when compared to the $100 offerings from Domaine Ott or Chateau d’ Esclans, and I can’t fathom a summer without a few bottles! In a new age where there is a lot of great pink wines, Domaine Tempier is still the benchmark, don’t miss it.”

 

Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:

For the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments normally traveling 4 or more business days.
Free service upgrade only applies on single orders purchased and shipped during the promotional period.  Additional fees will apply to orders held for any reason until after the promotional period and shipped by Three Day Select.  Offer not valid on pre-arrival items that arrive after the promotional period.

We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment

-to Oregon for $17,
Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25

These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason.
Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment
do not qualify for flat rate shipping.

Champagne MagnumsMake a statement – pop a cork!

Cedric Bouchard Roses de Jeanne Les Ursules Blanc de Noirs 2011 1.5L ($319.95) $269 special, 1 magnum available
“The 2011 Blanc de Noirs Les Ursules is quite delicate and understated in this vintage. Crushed flowers, herbs, dried cherries, kirsch, mint and anise are all nicely delineated in the glass. The aromatics are lifted and decidedly high-toned, while the wine lacks its customary balance, which brings out some angularity. The 2011 offers reasonably good balance within the context of the vintage, but not more. Tasted two times with some variation. Disgorged: April 2015.” –Antonio Galloni – Vinous
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $127
Guy Charlemagne Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru Reserve Brut NV 1.5L ($99.95) $89 special, 1 magnum available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points
“(made with fruit from the Cote de Blancs, mostly from Mesnil-sur-Oger; LRGC11):  Light yellow.  Vibrant lemon, orange zest, jasmine and mineral scents are complemented by deeper notes of anise and buttered toast.  Spreads out nicely on the palate, offering lively citrus and orchard fruit flavors and a touch of bitter quinine.  Closes smooth and long, with echoing minerality and a touch of bitter pear skin.  There’s very good depth here, as well as verve.” ST
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier d’Or Premier Cru Brut 2008 1.5L ($299.95) $279 special, 5 magnums available
Antonio Galloni – Vinous 94+ points
“The 2008 Brut Cuvée Grand Cellier d’Or is bright, focused and very tightly wound. Crystalline and energetic to the core, the 2008 is going to require at least a few years to fully come together. The wine’s vibrancy and pure, chiseled flavors suggest it will age gracefully for years. The 2008 is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, both from Les Blanches Voies Bas in Rilly la Montagne, that spent 10 months in neutral oak. This bottle was disgorged on December 2012. Dosage was 8 grams/liter.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “An 80-20 Chardonnay-Pinot blend from a single 45-year-old vineyard planted solely to selection massale in Rilly, Vilmart’s 2008 Brut Grand Cellier d’Or is scented with gentian and iris, along with intimations of the lemony juiciness and the alkaline, saline, chalky mineral bath that follow on the palate. A miso and clam stock-like savor serves for saliva-inducement in a finish at once gripping and glowing, with an exuberantly invigorating meld of lemon, nuts, musky rose radish and diverse sprouts of grains and legumes, not to mention the palate-coating persistence of mineral elements. I imagine that this will prove worth following for the next half dozen or more years.” DSDemarne-Frison ‘Goustan’ Brut Nature, Champagne NV 1.5L ($149.95) $99 special, 2 magnums available
Distributor note
“50% pinot noir from Les Clos de la Cote, 50% Chardonnay from Les Cotannes, and all from 2007. As the bulk of a tiny production from a new producer Goustan is a superb first effort, showing a hearty core with vibrant acidity.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!
Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Brut 2002 1.5L ($599.95) $445 special, 1 magnums available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points
“(70% pinot noir and 30% chardonnay): Light yellow-gold. Fresh orchard and pit fruits on the deeply scented nose, with notes of musky rhubarb and smoky minerals emerging with air. Deeply pitched poached pear and nectarine flavors show impressive power and are lifted by notes of chalk and ginger. Packs a serious punch but manages to come off as elegant. Finishes very long, with a strong jolt of minerality and slow-building leesiness.” JRGaston Chiquet Carte Verte Premier Cru Brut Tradition NV 1.5L ($99.95) $89 special, 14 magnums available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points
“Light yellow.  Suave, floral aromas of poached pear, blood orange, melon and honey.  A dusty mineral quality adds lift to spicy red berry and citrus fruit flavors.  Closes nervy and long, with resonating minerality and a touch of gingerbread.” ST

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $94.90
Jacques Lassaigne ‘La Colline Inspiree’ Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 5 magnums available
Wine Advocate & Wine Spectator 92 points
“Aromatic, featuring apple blossom, bread dough and sous-bois notes, this well-structured version is underscored by a hint of chalk-tinged minerality, with the mouthwatering impression enlivening refined layers of poached apple and pear, crystallized honey, lemon curd and candied ginger. Drink now through 2020.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $175.99
Nicolas Maillart Premier Cru Brut Degorgement Tardif NV 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special, 5 magnums available
Importer note
“The Platine Brut degorgement tardif is exclusively comprised of Grand Cru and Premier Cru grapes primarily grown in Ecueil, as well as Villers Allerand and Bouzy. 40% Reserve wine. Slow, gentle pressing using gravity-flow techniques. Vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and a period in barrel for a certain amount of the reserve wines. Aged for an average of 8 years in bottle. Disgorged by hand and laid down for at least three months before release. Dosage: 6 g/liter.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Champagne Hebrart Special Club Millesime Brut 2010 1.5L ($219.95) $189 special, 5 magnums available
Terry Theise note
“I must again speculate that there’s a tiny tip of the pyramid in 2010 that will give sensational wines in an otherwise meh vintage that tends to run lean. Otherwise I can scarcely comprehend how this wine can be so amazingly good. It only indicates the vintage by being ever-so-slightly airy in the finish. But what precedes that has many of the virtues of the supernal 2008, just not the “sweet-fruit” ripeness. But the chalk is a powdery quilt of richness, less hedonistic but every bit as convincing. What a trio these last three Clubs are, 08-09-10, like half-sibs of one another. Be happy if you own all three. It’s 35% old vines PN from Mareuil (from Faubourg d’Enfer and Croix Blanche), 20% PN from Aÿ (Cheuzelles, Pierre Robert), 25% CH old-vines Mareuil (Beauregard, Ramonette), and 20% CH Oiry and Chouilly. It’s a Coeur de Cuvée (heart of the freerun), deg 07/14.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Blanc de Blancs Cuis Premier Cru Brut NV 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special, 8 magnums available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points
“80% 2010 wine, 10% 2009, 4% 2008, 5% 2007 and 1% 2002; disgorged in May, 2013 after 30 months on its lees):  Green-tinged yellow.  Intense, mineral-accented aromas of orange zest, pear and white flowers, with an iodiney quality building in the glass.  Chewy in texture and nicely concentrated, offering precise citrus and bitter quinine flavors and a strong topnote of dusty minerals.  Finishes clean, bright and very long, with lingering chalkiness.  This would make a superb match with fresh oysters or crab.” STPierre Peters Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut NV 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 7 magnums available
Wine Spectator 91 points
“Fresh and floral, with dogwood and spring blossom accents, this mouthwatering blanc de blancs offers a lively bead, carrying flavors of white cherry, fresh ginger, slivered almond and yellow plum. Disgorged February 2015. Drink now through 2018. 900 cases imported.” WS

Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill 2000 1.5L ($519.95) $419 special, 7 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 94 points
“The first thing that is evident about the 2000 Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill is its finesse and total silkiness. The 2000 is a rich, creamy and deeply expressive Winston Churchill. I don’t see the 2000 being an especially long-term ager, but it is wonderfully radiant and open today. Hints of pastry, spice, apricots and succulent ripe pears blossom on the expansive, broad-shouldered finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.” AG

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

German Riesling Magnums

We offer 20 different German Riesling wines in magnum;
for the full list, visit our web store at
www.vinopoliswineshop.com

Weingut Karthauserhof Eitelsbacher Karthauserhofberg Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2014 1.5L ($119.95) $89 special, 6 magnums available
Wine Advocate 89+ points
“Deeply yellow in color, the 2014 Riesling Karthäuserhofberg Auslese (AP #12) displays an intense yet pretty clear and piquant, yellow-fleshed fruit and botrytis on the nose (pineapples). Sweet and concentrated on the palate, with a racy acidity (10.8 grams per liter of total acidity!) and bittersweet grapefruit flavors in the finish, this is a classic Ruwer Auslese. It is dense and pretty rich – the sugar free extract of 39.9 grams per liter – but neither too sweet (67 grams per liter of residual sugar) nor too opulent (8% alcohol). You can easily drink it, but shouldn’t do so before 2020. The aftertaste detects that the botrytis could have been selected even more carefully.”
Jean Fisch & David Rayer, Mosel Fine Wines #28: “Vineyard selections of botrytis-affected grapes only delivered 500 liters of Auslese harvested with a comparatively low 94° Oechsle. This Auslese starts off with a beautifully complex nose of fresh fruits, with pineapple, star anise and spices providing depth to the experience. The wine is superbly playful on the palate, where mouth-watering acidity adds to the aromatic precision. A riper side comes through in the finish tough, with almond, saffron and honey giving the wine a definitive Auslese GK style. 2024-2044.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spatlese #5, Mosel 2013 1.5L ($159.95) $133 special, 2 magnums available
Wine Advocate 94 points
“Lovely discreet and subtle on the coolish/stony nose the 7.5% alcohol 2013 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese #5 reveals very fine and flinty slate and precise lime fruit aromas leading to an intense and juicy, sweet and very piquant, very pure and salty palate with aromas of ripe nectarines and structured by its racy acidity. This rather aristocratic wine is so stimulatingly pure and salty, so nicely piquant as well as intense and almost lush in its juicy fruitiness, that it should have an enormous aging potential of 20 or 30 years.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Nahe 2015 1.5L ($169.95) $149 pre-arrival special, ETA fall 2016
Terry Theise note
“The best vintage since 2005, and a stunning masterpiece of dry Riesling, and of the complexities that wine—any wine—can attain. The aroma is an apotheosis of Hermannshöhle. The palate is majestic, proud, minty, racy and solid. Darjeeling tea and duck jus, in a deep note that rises and curls around the savory middle and soaring high register. Literally astonishing.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!

Arriving Next Week

Gulfi, Felsina, & Paitin

Gulfi Nerosanlore Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Gulfi Nerosanlore Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2010 1.5L ($119.95)
$99 pre-arrival special
Ian D’Agata–Vinous 95 points
“Fully saturated ruby. Pure, very deep aromas of black cherry, red plum, medicinal herbs and minerals. Rich, dense and suave, with complex flavors of saline red berries and dark plum complicated by repeating botanical herb and balsamic nuances. Finishes seamless an long. A wine of noteworthy purity, with an excellent balance of sweetness, acidity and tannins. This is Gulfi’s closest vineyard to the sea and almost always gives the estate’s most elegant, refined wine.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Fattoria di Fèlsina

Fattoria di Fèlsina has long been one of the great names in Tuscany.  Based in the Chianti Classico region, Fèlsina produces one of the finest ranges of age worthy and complex Sangiovese bottlings.  In 1966, when Italian viticulture was synonymous with cheap, boring wine, Dominic Poggiali Fèlsina purchased the estate. His son-in-law Giuseppe Mazzocolin took over in the 1980s and refocused the winery on producing high quality, full-bodied Sangiovese.  The vineyards are maintained with massale selections from their oldest vines.  Over the past fifty years, the estate has continued to produce wines in a pure, traditional style without being tempted by international-style influences. As a result, Fèlsina has come to be known for one of the finest ranges of ageworthy and complex Sangiovese bottlings in all of Italy.

Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Felsina Berardenga Rancia, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2012 1.5L ($99.95)
$89 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94+ points
“A ripe, powerful wine, the 2012 Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia offers a level of finesse that balances some of the more overt intensity of the year. Dark cherry, plum, spice, tobacco, menthol and licorice add shades of nuance as this beautifully delineated Rancia opens up in the glass. Because of its mid-weight structure, I expect the 2012 will give up its charms relatively early by Rancia standards, which means around age 15-20. The 2012 is not an obvious or explosive Rancia, rather is a wine built on compelling overall harmony.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $46Paitin di Pasquero-Elia

Paitin estate history goes back to 1796, when Benedetto Elia (Paitin) purchased a vineyard of about 5 acres in the Neive region of Piedmonte, and the first Barbaresco wine was bottled in 1893. Since 1965 (7 generations later) Secondo Pasquero Elia has taken over the winery and now runs the estate with his sons, Silvano and Giovanni. Paitin is now one of the highly acclaimed wineries in Piedmonte for Barbaresco. The family passionately works with the fruit, dependent upon the soil patterns of the slopes, the microclimates of each parcel and the differentiations between the multiple layers of schist soils throughout the vineyards. For Barbaresco, you rarely see this level of quality for under the $40-$50 range (same goes for Barolo, if even more so!). Paitin’s Serra tends to have notes of both dark and tart bing cherry fruit, beautiful peppery spice, followed by soft, fine-grained tannins.

Paitin di Pasquero-Elia ‘Sori Paitin’, Barbaresco DOCG 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Antonio Gallnoi 93 points
“Dark red cherry, plum, smoke, mint and leather are some of the notes that emerge from the 2012 Barbaresco Sorì Paitin. The Sorì Paitin is quite a bit more complex than it was from barrel, largely because the bottled wine is composed of approximately 30% wine that was originally destined for the Vecchie Vigne. As a result, this is one of the few 2012s I tasted that has real upside potential, even if it is relatively approachable today.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Paitin di Pasquero-Elia ‘Vecchie Vigne’ Sori Paitin, Barbaresco DOCG 2010 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 95+ points
“The 2010 Barbaresco Sorì Paitin Vigne Vecchie hits the palate with fabulous depth and intensity. Savory herbs, smoke, tobacco, incense, menthol and licorice race out of the glass in an intense, structured Barbaresco loaded with class, energy and pure power. There is plenty to look forward to, once the tannins soften a bit. The 2010 has closed down pretty dramatically since the last time I tasted it, about a year ago. Readers will have to be patient. The 2010 spent a total of 30 months in cask.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $79

Arriving Next Week
Domaine Marc Colin
A Burgundian Family’s Legacy
 
The Colin family has owned vineyards for over 100 years; since 1970, Domaine Marc Colin has produced fine across 15 hectares within 26 appellations. From their home base of St. Aubin, they produce a 70/30 split of white wines sourced from holdings in Chassagne, Puligny, and Santenay, and – of course – St. Aubin.  Their wines have earnest respect and acclaim for their purity and elegance. Now under the direction of Marc’s children John, Damien, and Caroline, Domaine Marc Colin has reached the upper echelon of Burgundy.Vines are worked sustainably; some parcels age over 100 years! Unlike much of St. Aubin, the Colin parcels are situated on slopes – among their finest holdings there are the En Remilly and Chatenière vineyards. Harvest is done manually and no chemical fertilizers are used. While the use of new oak increased somewhat a few years ago, it is used less frequency nowadays. More recent vintages have been stunning in their clarity and freshness; we’re proud to feature a number of releases from the 2014 vintage, all viewable below.

Domaine Marc Colin Wines Arriving Next Week:

Domaine Marc Colin et Fils Bourgogne Blanc La Combe, Burgundy 2014 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special

Domaine Marc Colin et Fils Chassagne-Montrachet Les Encegnieres 2014 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 90-92 points
“The 2014 Chassagne-Montrachet Encégnières has a flattering nose with tropical aromas combining nicely with the citrus fruit, touches of lemon sorbet and yellow plum emerging in the glass. The palate is fresh and poised on the entry, demonstrating fine weight in the mouth and delivering quite a powerful, complex finish of orange zest and lemongrass. There is a pizzazz about this Chassagne that delivers premier cru quality. Superb.”

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Domaine Marc Colin et Fils Les Combes, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate–
“The malolactics on the 2014 Saint Aubin 1er Cru les Combes was later than its “siblings” and therefore it is the only Saint Aubin that had not been bottled when I visited the domaine in October 2015. There was a lot of sulfur on the nose that made that difficult to read. The palate is sweet and well defined on the entry with sharp citrus fruit married with dried pineapple and melon notes towards the composed finish. I will reserve judgement now because of the SO2, although I suspect it will turn out to be a fine Saint Aubin that will require 4-5 years in bottle.”Domaine Marc Colin et Fils En Montceau, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 91 points
“The 2014 Saint Aubin 1er Cru en Montceau has a more generous nose than some of this domaine’s other 2014 Saint Aubins, a little more chutzpah here – cold stone, smoke and cold limestone reflecting the terroir. The palate is taut and precise with crisp acidity, a slightly chalky texture with a lively, spicy finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a fine Saint Aubin that is worth seeking out.”

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Marc Colin Wines Available Here Now:Domaine Marc Colin et Fils Bourgogne Rouge 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 16 bottles available
Wine Advocate 86-88 points
“The 2013 Bourgogne Rouge, which was taken from barrel, has a bright tart red cherry and cranberry-scented nose that is bright and lively. The palate is crisp with racy acidity, bright ‘n’ bouncy with a fresh tart finish that is almost clinical. Lovely.” WA

Domaine Marc Colin et Fils Santenay Vieilles Vignes 2011 750ML ($34.95) $27 special, 18 bottles available
Burghound: 
“An intensely earthy but solidly complex nose of ripe and dense red pinot fruit displays fine volume on the utterly delicious middle weight flavors that are shaped by notably mature tannins on the well-balanced and persistent finish. Like the old vines Chassagne, this won’t win any awards for elegance but then again, one doesn’t buy examples of Santenay villages searching for refinement.”

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Schrader’s Great Cabernet

Arriving in October

Schrader Cellars RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($499.95) $319 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 95-97 points
“The Cabernet Sauvignon RBS To Kalon Vineyard should ultimately score in the mid-90s, with the potential that it may reach the upper 90s. In any event, the wine came in at about 14.4% to 14.5% natural alcohol. It looks to be a super-duper vintage for Schrader; I do think if the 2014s turn out to be a better vintage certainly than 2011, they will still be behind both 2012 and 2013. After the remarkable performance of the 2012s, I would be hard-pressed to believe that Schrader could equal or eclipse that vintage, but they seem to have certainly equaled the quality of the 2012s. The 2013s are slightly more coiled and more tightly knit and with probably greater definition. That said, they all possess fabulous concentration and palate presence. Any of these will make a spectacular elixir/vinous treat to serve and consume over the next 25-30+ years. First-time readers may need to do a little research, but this is essentially a clonal study with micro-blends from the famous Oakville vineyard, the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, and more recently, a look at several other vineyards – the Beckstoffer George III Vineyard in Rutherford and the Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard.”
Vougeraie

Arriving Late July

Domaine de la Vougeraie represents the best the Côte d’Or has to offer: pristine whites, succulent reds, history, tradition, and talented winemaking. With 84 hectares of vines, all farmed organically, Domaine de la Vougeraie is able to make stellar wines from the village to Grand Cru level, including greats such as Bonnes Mares and Charmes-Chambertin. The Côte de Nuits accounts for two-thirds of their production, but new acquisitions in the Côte de Beaune account for a more complete selection of Burgundian terroirs. The wines of the Domaine de la Vougeraie are characterized by their sophisticated sense of purity and expression, achieved through meticulous viticulture and patient, respectful winemaking. The 2011 vintage shows good balance: alcohol and acidity are both low this year, which makes 2011 a good year to drink early, while the bigger vintages rest in the cellar.

Domaine de la Vougeraie Arriving Late July:

Domaine de la Vougeraie Les Damodes, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($119.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Burghound 90-93 points
“Here the wood treatment is more obvious though still relatively modest as it allows the ripe, earth and appealingly spicy red currant, plum, violet and rose petal aromas to shine. I very much like the mouth feel of the distinctly mineral-tinged medium-bodied flavors that possess outstanding complexity while concluding in a tension-filled and impressively persistent finish. The balance of structural elements is perfect and this should age effortlessly for up to a decade.”

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The average price is $110
Domaine de la Vougeraie Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru 2011 750ML ($219.95) $199 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 93+ points
“The 2011 Bonnes Mares needs time to fully come together. Today the whole clusters (80%) are a bit prominent. Savory herbs, tobacco, incense and orange peel all add layers of complexity to the dark fruit in a powerful, intense Burgundy that captures the essence of this site, albeit in a more medium-bodied style than is normal for this wine, but that is very much in line with the year. The 2011 is going to need at least another few years to be fully expressive. There is plenty of tannin and acidity to ensure years of fine drinking.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “Tasted blind at the Burgundy 2011 horizontal tasting in Beaune. Lighter in color, there are plenty of pretty, demure red berry fruits on the nose of the Bonnes-Mares 2011 from Domaine de la Vougeraie: very pure and translating the essence of Pinoté, albeit not the kind of aromatics for someone seeking opulence. The palate is medium-bodied with very well-judged acidity. This just glides across the palate and down the throat in effortless fashion. Bon vin.”
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Domaine de la Vougeraie Charmes-Chambertin Les Mazoyeres Grand Cru 2011 750ML ($199.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 96+ points
“Bright, full red.  Musky red berries, flowers, leather and potpourri spices on the complex nose.  Juicy and penetrating, conveying excellent energy and lift to the complex flavors of red fruits, smoky underbrush and saline minerality.  Rich, dense and creamy but with lovely restraint.  Finishes with a firm edge of tannins and excellent building length.  Already quite nuanced but I’d hold this for at least three or four years.” ST
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The next best price is $174.99

Produttori Case Pricing

Ends Tomorrow, June 30th

Extreme Deals:
Cheaper by the Dozen

Case-12 Buil & Gine 17-XI, Montsant, Spain 2012 750ML ($199.95) $119 special, 1 case available (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Buil & Gine 17-XI, Montsant, Spain 2012 750ML ($17.95)
$11.90 special, 34 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points
“This focused red offers flavors of black cherry, kirsch, licorice, toast and mineral, with juicy acidity and well-integrated tannins. Features a nice balance of fruit and savory character. Garnacha, Cariñena and Tempranillo. Drink now through 2020. 2,500 cases made.”
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “Brilliant ruby. Spice- and mineral-accented raspberry and cherry scents, with hints of candied flowers and anise. The juicy, precise palate offers bitter cherry and redcurrant flavors that deepen and become sweeter with air. Powerful yet lithe, finishing with strong thrust, sappy persistence and gentle, gripping tannins.” JR
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Case-12 Spanish Vines Amarte Mas Albarino, Rias Baixas 2013 750ML ($169.95) $119 special, 1 case available (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Spanish Vines Amarte Mas Albarino, Rias Baixas 2013 750ML ($19.95)
$11.90 special, 23 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 89 points
“Light yellow-gold. Lively citrus and orchard fruit scents are given depth by honey and a subtle leesiness. Supple and broad on entry, then more taut in the mid-palate, offering bitter quince and Meyer lemon flavors and a zesty kick of candied ginger. Closes spicy and tight, with good clarity, lift and cut.” JR
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Case-12  Domaine Isle Saint Pierre Rose, IGP Bouches-du-Rhone 2015 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 1 case available (that’s only $9.92/bottle!)
Domaine Isle Saint Pierre Rose, IGP Bouches-du-Rhone 2015 750ML ($14.95)
$11.90 special, 22 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points
“Very pale orange. Red currant, blood orange and a hint of garrigue on the nose. Bitter cherry, orange zest and succulent herb flavors are lifted and sharpened by juicy acidity and joined by a subtle floral nuance as the wine opens up. Fleshier on the finish, which lingers with good, tangy persistence and an echo of citrus pith.”
Case-12 Antucura Cabernet Sauvignon, Vista Flores, Argentina 2012 750ML ($219.95) $159 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Antucura Cabernet Sauvignon, Vista Flores, Argentina 2012 750ML ($19.95)
$14 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 89 points
“Good deep red.  Musky aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, fresh herbs and tobacco leaf.  Sweet, gentle and fat with fruit; more open-knit in the middle than the malbec.  Then tightens up on the back end, finishing with a more classic dryness.” ST
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Case-12 Atalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2011 750ML ($319.95) $199 special, 7 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Atalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2011 750ML ($31.95)
$18 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 89+ points
“(at 13.5% alcohol, this is a full degree lower than the Pauline’s Cuvee; includes tiny bits of merlot and petit verdot): Bright red-ruby. Musky black raspberry, blackberry, licorice, menthol and oak on the nose. Distinctly tighter and less pliant now than the Pauline’s Cuvee, displaying a touch of medicinal reserve to the sappy dark berry, violet and menthol flavors. Shows serious spine without coming off as hard: I’d give this persistent cabernet a year or two to mellow in bottle.” ST
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Case-12 Atalon Pauline’s Cuvee, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($359.95) $199 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Atalon Pauline’s Cuvee, Napa Valley 2010 750ML ($29.95)
$21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 93 points
“This Merlot-based blend is a huge success. It’s a big, tannic, tight wine, packed to bursting with black cherry liqueur, cola and spice flavors. Yet it maintains an exciting balance, with the tension between acids, tannins and oak in equilibrium. Seems like it wants 5-6 years in the cellar to let it throw some tannins and mellow.” WE
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Case-12 Bodega Bernabeleva Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid  2012 750ML ($219.95) $169 special, 4 cases available (that’s only $14.08/bottle!)
Bodega Bernabeleva Navaherreros Garnacha, Madrid 2012 750ML ($24.95)
$16 special, 7 bottles available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points
“(100% garnacha): Brilliant ruby-red. Fresh, intensely perfumed red and dark berries on the nose, with mineral, camphor and floral nuances building in the glass. Spicy raspberry and boysenberry flavors pack a solid punch but carry no excess weight. Finishes with very good spicy lift, fine-grained tannins and mineral-driven persistence.” JR

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!