Vinopolis Newsletter – May 9th, 2016

 

Emilio Moro Pre-Arrival Special; New Week – New Arrivals; Cosmic St. Cosme ‘14 Pre-Arrival Sale; Closing Out the “Mother of All Burgundy Sales”

 

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Emilio Moro Ribera del Duero
Special Pre-Arrival Pricing
Bodegas Emilio Moro Finca Resalso, Ribera del Duero 2014 750ML ($17.95) $11.90 pre-arrival special*

Josh Raynolds Vinous 90 points “Bright violet color. Spicy dark berries on the nose, with a suave floral quality building in the glass. Round and seamless in texture, offering sweet black and blue fruit flavors and a touch of smokiness. Shows more red fruit character on the finish, with silky tannins coming in late to add grip. This fruit-driven Ribera is pretty delicious right now.”

 

*Price will be $14/bottle / $149/case upon arrival

 

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New Week – New Arrivals

 

CALIFORNIA

Saintsbury Chardonnay, Carneros 2013 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special

Winery Notes–“Zesty notes of lime, kumquats and green pineapple, with heady powdered lily aromas. On the palate this wine is energetic from the start with tangy citrus, white peach and cloves.”

 

AHA Wines Bebame Rose, El Dorado County 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special

96% Cabernet Franc, 4% Gamay Noir

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Heitz Cellar Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2010 1.5L ($499.95) $419 special

Antonio Galloni 96 points “Not surprisingly, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Martha’s Vineyard is the least expressive of these wines. At the same time, so much of its appeal is in its tightly-coiled energy and tension. Cherry pit, smoke, blood orange, mint and spice open up with time in the glass, but the 2010 is clearly built for cellaring. The wine’s brightness and focus are compelling, but the 2010 needs time.” AG

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The next best price is $449.42

 

 

FRANCE-CHAMPAGNE

Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Fidele Extra Brut NV 750ML ($79.95) $44.50 special

Winery note “[Translated] Our desire as a domaine is to remain discreet stylistically while genuinely showcasing the character of each vintage.  Cuvee Fidele does so by definition.  This wine shows all of the vinous flavors of Pinot Noir with expressions of limestone (a sign of the pure Kimmeridgian soil) and persistent aromas due to vinification completely in wood.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The average price is $76

 

Vouette et Sorbee Cuvee Blanc d’Argile Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV (2011) 750ML ($99.95) $59 special

Vinopolnote: Antonio Galloni has dubbed the Blanc d’Argile “Chablis-like in its purity”, with “a focused expression of smoke, flint, minerals and citrus.” A long-time favorite and a fantastic Grower Champagne.

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The average price is $88

 

Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose NV 750ML ($99.95) $79 special

James Suckling 94 points “An subtle nose with plenty of fine autolysis aromas of fresh bread and sweetly fragrant yeasty notes, plus some gentle spice and chalky notes. The palate unleashes beautiful wild strawberry fruit flavors, super fresh, fleshy and pure. Great balance and depth. Drink now.” JS

 

Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Brut 1996 750ML ($399.95) $348 special

Antonio Galloni 97 points (December 2015); Antonio Galloni 96 points (March 2015) “One of the all time greats from Philipponnat, the 1996 Clos des Goisses captures the essence of a vintage in which both sugars and acidities were elevated. Tension, energy and salinity are the signatures. Readers who can wait on the 1996 will be rewarded with a stunning bottle of Champagne that will likely still be profound at age fifty.”

 

Jacques Selosse Initial Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut NV 750ML ($219.95) $199 special, 2 bottles remaining

Antonio Galloni 94 points “The NV Initial is especially open in this release, with notable texture, richness and resonance. Lemon peel, white flowers and almonds all open up in the glass, followed by honey and slight elements of Burgundian-like reduction. Initial is always Selosse’s most vibrant wine, as it is once again this year. The pure breadth and verticality of these Chardonnays from Avize, Cramant Oger is compelling. Readers who want to explore Anselme Selosse’s wines should start here…” AG

 

Jacques Selosse Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Version Originale NV 750ML ($279.95) $249 special, 1 bottle remaining

Antonio Galloni 95 points “Tasted after the Initial, the NV V.O. (Version Originale) presents slightly darker, more burnished tonalities of Chardonnay. Almond, marzipan, dried rose petals, spices and anise blossom in an ample, generous Champagne built on volume, but supported by insistent veins of minerality. Hints of trademark Selosse oxidation make the V.O. a bit more eccentric, especially for readers who might not be familiar with these Champagnes. V.O. emerges from parcels in Avize, Cramant and Oger, all Grand Cru villages. The vintages are 2006, 2005 and 2004. This bottle was disgorged on October 15, 2013 and bottled with no dosage.” AG

 

Benoit Dehu ‘La Rue des Noyer’ Brut NV (2012) 750ML ($119.95) $99 special

Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93+ points “Benoît Déhu’s NV Extra Brut La Rue des Noyers is a 100% Meunier from a biodynamically farmed 1.7 hectare plot in Fossoy with dark limestone soils. Fermented and aged for ten months in used 228 liter barrels but with “no malolactic, no racking, no filtering, no cold stabilization and no fining,” says Benoît Déhu, when he presented me his wine at the presentation of the Origines Champagne group in Château de Pierry earlier this year. “We produce our wines like our colleagues in Burgundy.” It had two different Cuvées of this wine. Their first was entirely based on the 2011 vintage and was disgorged in June 2014 with a minimal dosage of one gram per liter. It is an impressively deep, intense and full-bodied Champagne that displays ripe fruit and slightly smoky flavors on the nose; it is very pure, complex and well structured on the palate. This stunningly powerful and persistent Champagne is surely made for a long distance run. The second wine is the successor and based on vintage 2012, but disgorged with no dosage. This is a very delicate and elegant release with a superbly refined mousse. However, it is also straight, firm and perhaps even finer than the 2011.”

 

 

FRANCE-BURGUNDY

Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Les Baudines, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($79.95) $66 special

Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 91-93 points “(still full of gas–Pillot uses CO2 for “a natural batonnage,” but the malo has finished): Piquant aromas of grapefruit, lime and ginger are accented by a note of white pepper. Brisk and stony on entry, then almost surprisingly silky and thick in the middle but with terrific lift to its intense grapefruit and crushed rock flavors. Tactile but not phenolic or green.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The next best price is $72.99

 

Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Les Vergers, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($89.95) $66 special

Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 92 points “Pale, bright yellow. Showy aromas of pear, orange zest and minerals. Fruitier and sweeter than the 2014 version, offering a fleshiness that that wine currently lacks. (“The 2014 is rigid, like the 2010,” notes Pillot.) This lovely pliant, harmonious wine finishes with excellent lemony lift.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Morgeot Les Fairendes, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru 2013 750ML ($89.95) $66 special

Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 92+ points “Pale straw-yellow. Perfumed, nuanced aromas of lime, lemon, wild herbs, white pepper, minerals and anise convey a very fresh, cool style of Morgeot. Densely packed and youthfully tight, showing very good energy and definition. But with its strong citrussy acidity, this wine is less harmonious and more austere in the early going than the Vergers. A finishing touch of lemon peel gives the aftertaste a slight bitterness but this premier cru offers terrific potential.”

 

Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Bourgogne Les Grandes Terres 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special

Importer note “This little red is a favorite of ours for its rustic, wild berry fruit and ebullient palate presence.  The vineyard is located south of Chassagne in the town of Remigny.  Some of the vines are quite old, approaching the 60-year mark.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet Mes Vieilles Vignes Rouge 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special

Importer note “Pillot exploits over a hectare of vineyards planted in 1960 to Pinot Noir at the village level.  This is a robust, cherry-flavored wine of strength and vigor.  A simple, satisfying red from a village that should be more recognized for the quality of its reds, this being a prime example.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Frederic Magnien Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special

Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2013 Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes has a ripe, quite generous bouquet with “billowing” scents of wild strawberry and raspberry preserve that is well defined. The palate is vibrant on the entry with primal dark cherry and cassis fruit. The tannins feel succulent in the mouth, the acidity quite racy and lending the finish the tension that it needs. This should be very interesting once bottled.” NM

 

 

FRANCE-ROSE/PINK WINES

Domaine de Reuilly ‘Reuilly’ Pinot Gris Rose 2014 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 special

Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Pale onion-skin color. Lively, precise, mineral-laced orange zest and redcurrant scents are complemented by a suave floral nuance. Dry and nervy in the mouth, offering zesty citrus fruit and berry skin flavors and a touch of jasmine. In a distinctly graceful, effortless style, showing noteworthy clarity and nervy finishing cut. This is consistently one of the most elegant pink wines that I taste for my annual pink wine coverage.”

 

Lucien Crochet Sancerre Pinot Rose 2015 750ML ($34.95) $28 special

Lucien Crochet Sancerre Pinot Rose 2015 1.5L ($79.95) $59 special

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!”

 

Domaine Brazilier Coteaux du Vendomois Tradition Gris Rose 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Vinopolnote: An energetic, biodynamic rose of Pineau d’Aunis offering soft, elegant fruit notes.

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Domaine Collotte Marsannay Rose 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Vinopolnote: A pinot noir-based rose from Burgundy boasting bright red fruit, a touch of spice, and nice mineral elements.

 

Domaine de la Berangeraie ‘Tu Bois Coa’ Rose, IGP Cotes du Lot 2015 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special
Vinopolnote: A deep-hued, easy-drinking rose of Malbec.

 

Chateau Manissy La Belle Etoile Rose 2015 750ML ($14.95) $11.90 special

Winery note “80% Syrah, 20% Grenache.  Soft and crisp, this wine reveals notes of spice and red fruit.”

 

Le Galantin Bandol Rose, Provence 2015 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Importer’s note: The Domaine Le Galantin Rose is a classic Provencal rose with delightful fresh berry fruit flavors and a crisp finish. It is composed of 50% Mourvedre, about 25% Cinsault and about 25% Grenache. After the grapes are hand-harvested from their organic vineyards, they cool down the bunches to 50 degrees for a two day cold soak in order to extract fruit, color and aromatics. The juice is then racked off and the grapes are pressed to stainless steel tanks. 10% of the wine is Saignée, the rest come from grapes treated as for making white wine. On the nose, mineral, with complex aromas of red fruit and citrus. Full bodied on the palate, generous and elegant. Bandol rosé is an excellent accompaniment to bouillabaisse and other fish and shellfish dishes.

 

 

FRANCE-RHONE

Andre Perret Condrieu Coteau du Chery 2012 750ML ($99.95) $89 special

Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2012 Condrieu Coteaux du Chery, which comes from one of the most heralded sites in the appellation, is also brilliant (as is his 2011!). The most rich and textured of the lineup, it offers thrilling notes of white peach, crushed rock, buttered grapefruit, flowers and tangerine to go with a medium to full-bodied, layered, yet brilliantly fresh and detailed texture that keeps you coming back to the glass. It too will drink nicely for 4-5 years.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee 2013 750ML ($69.95) $53.50 special

Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee 2013 1.5L ($149.95) $128 special

Case-12 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee 2013 750ML ($719.95) $588 special (that’s only $49/bottle!)

Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “Deep ruby. Potent aromas of ripe dark berries, licorice pastille, woodsmoke, game and garrigue, plus a peppery nuance that adds spiciness and lift. Round and fleshy on the palate, offering intense blackberry and bitter cherry flavors that become livelier and sweeter with air. The very long, energetic, sharply focused finish features fine-grained tannins and subtle, lingering notes of dark berries and smoked meat.”

 

Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Laurence 2011 750ML ($119.95) $89 special

Wine Spectator 95 points “A solidly grippy, old-school version, with lots of brick dust, roasted chestnut and fresh tobacco leaf notes coating the core of steeped plum, raspberry and black cherry fruit. Offers a broad and woodsy feel through the finish, with singed cedar and juniper details pumping throughout, delivering ample flesh and fruit for balance. This has grip to burn and should cruise in the cellar. Best from 2018 through 2030.”

 

Domaine du Pegau Selection Laurence Feraud Cotes du Rhone 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 special

Importer’s note: “In addition to running the legendary Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate Domaine du Pegau with her father Paul, Laurence Féraud manages a successful negociant wine business under the “Sélection Laurence Féraud” label.”

 

 

ITALY-TUSCANY

Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano 2014 750ML ($19.95) $16 special

Winery note: “Medium ruby red in colour, the Rosso di Montepulciano 2014 is bursting with bright aromas of strawberry, raspberry and pomegranate. Notes of violets and rose petals complement the flavours of cherry, red currant and white pepper. A delicate finish of sage and thyme lingers on the tongue.”

 

Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 2012 750ML ($34.95) $28 special

Wine Spectator 90 points “Though delicate in profile, there’s no mistaking the cherry, strawberry, earth, leather and tobacco flavors of Sangiovese here. This is firm, with light yet mouthcoating tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2021.” WS

 

Casanova di Neri, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Italy 2011 750ML ($59.95) $44.90 special

Grapelive 93+ points “It was a pleasure to meet Giavanni Neri and taste through the latest Casanova di Neri wines, Casanova di Neri is one of Italy’s great wineries and a blue chip standard Brunello year after year. The new set of Casanova di Neri is an amazing lineup from the humble Rosso di Neri to the mind-blowing perfection of the 2010 Cerretalto Brunello! Of course, I was most interested in the soon to be released 2011 Brunello offerings, and how they’d compare to the 2010’s, so I picked the classic White Label to focus on, though I did try the 2011 Tenuta Nuova with Giavanni as well and while not as firm or as focused as the 2010’s these 2011 wines are highly enjoyable and wonderfully expressive and impressive. Similar to 2011 Barolo, these wines gained from the warmer summer heat, these are more generous wines with sweeter tannins and will be easy to please in their youth, but Casanova di Neri really did a great job here, as these Sangiovese Grosso Brunello di Montalcino 2011’s both have balance, depth and vitality. The 2011 Casanova di Neri White Label, the Brunello Normale, is full of flavor, extract and energy with ripe fruit, structure to match and pleasing mouth feel. The 2010 Cerretalto Brunello by di Neri and the 2011 Tenuta Nuova are absolutely stunning wines, but both learn towards Bordeaux in style, and in price, especially the Cerretalto at $375/bt is in league with the great Paulliacs, with the Tenuta Nuova being more Right Bank in style, while the 2011 Casanova di Neri White Label shows more it’s Tuscan soul. The 2011 White Label Brunello di Montalcino starts with a touch of graphite/flint, red raspberry, sweet minty herbs, light floral tones and cigar wrapper leading to a full and round palate of blackberry, cherry, spiced plum and wild strawberry fruits along with cedar, black fig, anise and warm stones. The body is lavishly textured, but there is lift and vigor with just enough acidity and fine tannin to frame this spot-on Brunello. This will be a sleeper, while most people will chase the top end wines and or keep tracking down 2010’s, this looks set to be a great wine that might get overlooked, that will be a mistake, this is one to have and drink over the next decade, it’s very nice stuff. The 2011’s should be widely available in March, be sure to keep an eye out for these Casanova di Neri’s, and if you like Tuscan reds, then you’ll love the stylish flare of di Neri!”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($119.95) $79 special

Wine Advocate 95 points “This is another fabulous wine from Giacomo Neri. The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is a deeply layered expression with bold tones of dark fruit that are softened and enhanced by spice, leather, tobacco and balsam herb. The wine is very beautiful and polished with slightly less depth and complexity compared the outstanding (100 point) vintage that precedes it. Despite the vintage variation, this is a wine of enormous pedigree and importance. It is generous and confident with a presentation that offers purity, intensity and persistence.”

James Suckling 94 points “A red with earthy, meaty, salty, ripe fruit aromas and flavors. Full body with round, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. So much richness and depth. Needs at least a year or two to come together.”

Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is dark, sensual and inviting, with lovely textural depth and fine balance. Macerated dark cherry, plum, smoke, lavender and spice flesh out in a succulent, expressive Brunello that should drink well with minimal cellaring.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Altesino Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($59.95) $49 special

Case-12 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($599.95) $549 special (that’s only $45.75/bottle!)

Antonio Galloni 92 points “Altesino’s 2011 Brunello di Montalcino opens with beguiling aromatics. Sage, licorice, menthol and sweet tobacco flesh out nicely as the wine shows off its ample, broad personality. The tannins could use another year or two to soften, but all the elements are very nicely balanced throughout. This gracious, silky Brunello will drink well for the next decade-plus.”

James Suckling 92 points “This is long and delicious with lovely cherry, chocolate and fresh walnut flavors. Linear yet open with persistence and joy. Drink now.”

 

Altesino Montosoli, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG  2011 750ML ($99.95) $77 special

James Suckling 94 points “A very ripe style with prune, berry and salted-nut aromas and flavors. Full body, savory intensity and a long, flavorful finish. Lots of juicy, fabulous fruit. Shows the greatness of the vineyard. Drink or hold.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2010 750ML ($89.95) $79 special

James Suckling 97 points “Fascinating aromas of dried flowers, sandalwood, cedar and plums. Full body, ultra-fine tannins and a long, long finish. Gloriously complex and savory. Dusty texture. Just makes you want to drink it.”

 

ITALY-SICILY

Benanti Bianco di Caselle Etna 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16 special
Winery note: Carricante 100%, grown as alberello (free standing bush). This indigenous vine is cultivated only on Etna. Its name seems to be attributed by the vine-growers of Viagrande because of its characteristics of allowing a good, constant production over the years. The bunches, at ripeness are of average length, usually scattered; the grape is medium-sized with very pruinose skin and a green-yellowish color.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Benanti Rosso di Verzella Etna 2013 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special

Ian D’Agata–Vinous 92 points “Bright red. Aromas of fresh red berries and pungent herbs are complicated by mineral and floral nuances. Dense, juicy and bright in the mouth, with sweet, floral red berry flavors lifted by lively acidity. Multilayered but youthfully discreet. The red berry flavors linger long on the vibrant finish. This superb wine is quite Pinot Noir-like.”

 

 

SPAIN

Avinyo Brut Reserva Cava, Catalonia 2012 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special

Josh Raynolds–Vinous 90 points “Light, bright yellow. The complex bouquet evokes fresh tangerine, pear and pungent flowers. Spicy and sharply focused, with bitter pear skin and citrus pith flavors becoming weighty and broad in the mid-palate. Closes sappy and quite long, with echoing floral and citrus notes.”

 

Celler Pardas Sumoll Rosado, Penedes 2015 750ML ($19.95) $16 special

 

Descendientes de J. Palacios Villa de Corullon, Bierzo 2013 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special

Wine Advocate 95 points “If I was impressed with the 2012 vintage, the 2013 Corullón is otherworldy, especially for the vintage. The wine is tight and solid, a little exotic, extremely balsamic with lots of smoky notes and aromas that reminded me of a cypress, developing very classical aromas of pear and blood orange. Subtle and elegant. The palate is medium-bodied, sharp, very fresh, serious, with good concentration. Very consistent and compact, sometimes these wines from a mélange of vineyards can be extremely complete, and this is a good example. This could very well be the surprise of 2013. Drinkable and approachable, but with the stuffing and balance to live and develop for a good decade (or more). The price is very reasonable for the quality it delivers; wines of this quality are very often double the price asked here. 11,448 bottles produced, one of the shortest vintages of Corullón, where they had to sort and discard plenty of grapes.”

 

Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos, Bierzo, Spain 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special

Case-12 Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos, Bierzo, Spain 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)

#53 Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2015

Vinopolnote: Predominantly Mencia, that grape native to northwestern Spain that we cannot get enough of! Minerals and smoke meld perfectly with red and black fruit and a kiss of licorice – a wonderfully integrated and thought-provoking wine.

Wine Advocate 92 points “Always among the best values of Spain, the 2013 Pétalos del Bierzo has an extra degree of freshness in a cool vintage, and some time in bottle always does this wine wonders. It’s aromatic, open and expressive, with floral aromas and bright fruit, wild strawberries and violets. This is always a subtle, medium-bodied wine, with fine tannins, sleek acidity and a fine minerality. Ready now.”

Wine Spectator 91 points “Expressive black cherry, currant, licorice, mineral and smoke flavors mingle in this focused red.  The texture is gentle but firm, with well-integrated tannins and racy acidity providing structure.  A compact wine that shows good intensity.  Drink now through 2023.”TM

 

Bodegas Borsao Vina Borgia, Campo de Borja 2014 Bag in Box 3L ($29.95) $18 special

Josh Raynolds–Vinous 88 points “Youthful purple. Vibrant, spice-accented red berry and cherry scents, with a floral overtone and a hint of cracked pepper. Sweet black raspberry and lavender pastille flavors show good depth and clarity, with a jolt of white pepper adding back-end cut. The tight, nervy finish features soft tannins and repeating floral character. This unoaked wine delivers impressive value.” JR

 

Rotllan Torra Crianza, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Vinopolnote: Rougly equal parts Grenache, Mazuelo, and Cabernet Sauvignon from the rocky slopes of Priorat.

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Rotllan Torra Reserva, Priorat DOCa 2010 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special

Winery note “[Translated] Grapes were hand-harvested as each plot reached optimum ripeness. The nose presents the best of new oak: toast and spicy notes, with an undernote of ripe raspberries and blueberries. As the highly aromatic wine evolves in the glass, it gradually shows spicy aromas, notes of ripe red fruit and some notes of licorice. The palate has moderate acidity with a round, well-structured mouthfeel and sweet, velvety tannins giving smoothness and an elegant and long finish. Very pleasant in the mouth, soothing, silky, very persistent, with long aftertaste that leaves the palate full of a complex array of aromas that invite drinking. A wine of extraordinary quality. A harmony of textures, elegant, black cherry, spice and toasty oak.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

 

ARGENTINA

Michelini Bros SuperUco Calcáreo Coluvio de Altamira Malbec, Uco Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) Was $39, Now $33 (Sale Ends Friday)

Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2013 Calcáreo Coluvio de Altamira is closed and tight, feeling the most austere and chalk-driven of the three reds I tasted form the Calcáreo line. The grapes are selected from a small part of the vineyard where the calcium carbonate is seen in the surface. It’s a serious, balanced and terribly salty and mineral red with the violets of Malbec intermixed with crushed rocks and even a marine feeling to it. Complex, subtle, elegant… terrific! And very affordable too. 3,000 bottles produced, the content of the amphora.”

 

Michelini Bros SuperUco Calcáreo Río de los Chacayes Malbec, Uco Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) Was $39, Now $33 (Sale Ends Friday)

Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Calcáreo Río de los Chacayes is sourced from the Chacayes zone of Tunuyán on top of Vista Flores towards the mountains. It has a riper, spicier, floral, and aromatic profile with notes of thyme and rosemary. It is the most extroverted of the three, and also feels quite polished. The palate, however, is more serious, with the austerity of the rocks, a very fine thread of subtle acidity and a long, long, long finish with sweeter tannins. Its a rolling stone covered in chalk and surrounded by thyme. Awesome! 3,000 bottles were produced.”

 

 

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Newly Re-Arrived
An Ongoing Affair With 2010 Brunello

 

Piancornello Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2010 750ML ($49.95) $39 special

Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is deceptive in its mid-weight structure, but there is plenty going on in the glass. Dried rose petal, tobacco, iron, dried cherries and cinnamon open up in an insistent Brunello loaded with personality. Fruit is pushed to the back, while intensely ferrous and savory notes are quite expressive. The lifted finish adds attractive overtones in a powerful yet mid-weight Brunello that impresses for its balance and class.” AG

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

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Roll out the Barroul!

Saint Cosme 2014’s

Arriving Late June
Don’t hesitate!
Some will likely sell out prior to arrival!
Across 15 generations (!!!), the Barroul family have tended the vines of Saint Cosme, the oldest estate in all of Gigondas. Louis Barroul has been at the helm for just shy of twenty years, overseeing fifteen hectares of vines with an average vine age of sixty years.

 

These wines have been a hot-ticket item across past vintages and we’re thrilled to offer a wide range of the new arrivals, all listed below:

New Wines from Saint Cosme Arriving in June:

 

Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Le Poste Blanc 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 90 points “Coming all from the second terrace of the le Poste vineyard in Gigondas (there’s no white wines allowed under the Gigondas AOC, so this is released as a Cotes du Rhone), the 2014 Cotes du Rhone Le Poste Blanc is 100% Clairette, from vines planted in 1963, that’s raised all in older barrels. It offers terrific notes of mulled pears, buttered citrus, lemon curd and a kiss of minerality as well as medium-bodied richness, lively acidity and outstanding length. It’s beautiful now, but this cuvee also ages gracefully and has a broad drink window.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph 2014 750ML ($31.95) $24 pre-arrival special

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91-93 points “(sourced from Malleval): Inky ruby. Strongly perfumed aromas of blackberry, boysenberry and smoky minerals carry a subtle peppery overtone. Seamless, pliant and gently sweet, offering concentrated dark berry and cola flavors and a touch of star anise on the back half. Gains richness with air and finishes very long and smoky, displaying building tannins and a late suggestion of olive. There’s an intriguing umami character to this wine that should make it very flexible at the table.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Saint Cosme Cote Rotie 2014 750ML ($69.95) $49 pre-arrival special

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92-94 points “(made, as usual, from vineyards in the Côte Brune): Opaque ruby. Vibrant, sharply focused black and blue fruits on the nose, complicated by peppery spice and mineral notes. Lithe and precise, showing strong lift to the intense blueberry, violet pastille and spicecake flavors. Picks up a smoky quality with air and finishes sweet, seamless and very long, with sneaky tannins adding shape and grip.”

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 89-91 points “The 2014 Cote Rotie is a solid step up from the Crozes Hermitage and St Joseph releases. Fermented with 100% stems and aged in 30% new barrels, it has a crazily perfumed bouquet of rose garden, peppery, stems, black raspberries and sweet oak. This gives way to a medium-bodied, nicely concentrated Cote Rotie that has solid mid-palate depth, good freshness and a great finish. It should have 10-15 yeas. of overall longevity.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Saint Cosme Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Opaque ruby. Deep, smoke-accented dark berry and floral scents are lifted by a note of peppery spice. Smoky and sweet in the mouth, offering intense blueberry and cassis flavors and a hint of candied violet. Suggests the north in its fruit profile, finishing with very good punch and length and velvety, late-arriving tannins.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage 2014 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special

Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91-93 points “Bright violet. Lively, mineral-laced dark berry aromas are complicated by hints of floral oils and peppery spices. Silky and seamless on the palate, offering gently sweet black raspberry and violet pastille flavors that become deeper and fleshier with air. Sappy and graceful in character, closing with strong thrust and silky tannins.”

 

Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion 2014 750ML ($21.95) $16.60 pre-arrival special

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 88-90 points “The 2014 Cotes du Rhone les Deux Albions has surprising density and depth of fruit in the vintage. Blackberries, currants, licorice, garrigue and pepper all emerge from this medium-bodied, sweetly fruited, charming, forward and delicious beauty. It will drink well right out of the gate.”

 

Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas 2014 750ML ($39.95) $30 pre-arrival special

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 89-91 points “Checking in as a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and 15% Syrah, the 2014 Gigondas is a rock solid effort in a difficult vintage. Offering the classic graphite, camphor, mineral and darker fruit that’s the hallmark of this estate, it’s medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated and has a tight, backwards, age-worthy feel. Give bottles 3-4 years of cellaring and drink through 2029.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides 2014 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 92-94+ points “What will mostly likely end up being the wine of the vintage is the 2014 Gigondas Hominis Fides. From a single vineyard located just down the hill from the estate, fermented with 100% whole clusters and aged all in Burgundy barrels, it offers sensational notes of crushed rock, graphite, dried rose petals and licorice in a medium to full-bodied, elegant, seamless style that hides considerable tannic grip. It’s a beautiful wine that will still be drinking nicely in 2034.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux 2014 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The most mineral-driven in the lineup, the 2014 Gigondas le Claux is almost 100% Grenache, and was fermented with 100% stems and aged in Burgundy barrels. Freshly crushed rocks, black currants, forest floor and truffle notes all flow beautifully to a medium to full-bodied, layered, sexy and nicely concentrated Gigondas that has enough fruit to drink well on release, yet the structure, balance and depth to evolve for 10-15 years. It’s an undeniable success in the vintage.”

 

Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Poste 2014 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special

Jeb Dunnuck-Wine Advocate 92-94 points “The most pretty, elegant and finesse-driven of the single vineyard releases, the 2014 Gigondas le Poste offers more floral notes as well as ample cassis, violets and cracked pepper. From a terraced vineyard located just beside the estate, I love its tannin quality, as well as its purity of fruit, perfect balance and clean, lengthy finish. I always find slightly less concentration and density in this cuvee, yet more purity and finesse, and this holds true in 2014 as well.”

 

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Featured Pre-Arrival: New Oregon Project from Meo-Camuzet of Burgundy

 

Arriving Friday

 

Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special, ETA Friday!

Grapelive 94+ points “The new Meo-Camuzet Oregon project, the Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir is out, and it is a brilliant and luscious wine with deep fruit and youthful intensity, the gorgeous up front maybe hiding the wine’s subtle details, but bottle age should bring amazing rewards, this is stunner! A partnership between famed Burgundy vigneron Jean-Nicolas Meo, of Domaine Meo-Camuzet, renowned for wines like Clos de Vougeot and Vosne-Romanee, and music and media mogul Jay Boberg, who co-founded IRS Records, was president of MCA/Universal Music and now heads Isolation Networks-INgrooves. The Domaine Nicolas-Jay owns a vineyard, Bishop’s Creek and sources from top growers in the Willamette as they build this label, I would think after this first success they’ll be around a long time and have more of their own vines. The other part of this story that shouldn’t be overlooked, is the work and achievement of associate winemaker Tracy Kendall, a young winemaker on the rise, coming from a three year stint as enologist at Adelsheim Vineyard, where she really was making some great stuff before joining up with Jean-Nicolas, as well as working harvests at Vasse Felix in Western Australia, Serisin in New Zealand as well as Kiwi Pinot specialist Felton Road. As the day to day person in charge she got this wine to where it is, bravo Tracy, and everyone she keep an eye on her as well as the Domaine Nicolas-Jay, which is a wine to get on board with early. The 2014 vintage in Oregon is a blockbuster and the Nicolas-Jay takes full advantage of nature’s gift here with explosive fruit, a seductive nose of rose petal, violets and sweet smoke, a dark core and a glorious array of layers, flavors and length with blackberry, cherry, sweet plum and tangy currant fruits, mixed spice, light mineral tones, hints of cedar, blueberry/concord grape, cinnamon and delicate earthy loam. Look for lots more complexity as it unlocks hidden treasure over the coming decade. Almost full-bodied, the 2014 Nicolas-Jay is very much alive with lifting acidity, graceful silken tannins and gorgeous sexy mouth feel, a bit more flamboyant than the Ken Wright 2014’s, but with similar detail,  this may have had a Burgundian touch, but it is all Oregon in character and terroir, close to what you’d expect from top producers like Beaux Freres, don’t miss a chance to get a few bottles, and while this Pinot is great now, it should be better in 5 to 10 years, this winery is off to a fantastic start!”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

 

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Reminder – Last Call!
Subscriber-Only Burgundy Sale
Ends Today at Noon

“The Mother of All Bungundy Sales”

We will take 11% off displayed price on all Burgundy Wines here now.

11% discount offer does not apply to pre-arrival offers

 

You can view our entire selection of Burgundy wines online at vinopoliswineshop.com

501 selections to choose from!

 

The 11% discount will not appear online; we will apply to your finalized invoice prior to charging. Our listed prices have not been further discounted, ie, your cost today will be 11% lower than displayed prices.

 

Orders must be fully completed before noon on Monday to receive the 11% discount.

 

The Mother of all Burgundy Sale includes these examples:

Serafin Pere & Fils Les Corbeaux, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2012 750ML ($149.95) Was $119, Now $105.91 with 11% off! – 21 bottles available

Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2012 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Corbeaux comes from 0.45-hectares of vines planted in 1968 by Christian’s father adjacent to Mazis-Chambertin. It has a precocious bouquet compared to the Vieilles Vignes, with scents of mulberry, dark plum and luscious black fruit that are tightly controlled. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly grainy entry. This is showing the oak a little more than the Vieilles Vignes at the moment, but there is sufficient concentration to absorb that with time. The linear finish, crisp and taut, bodes well for the future.” WA

 

Domaine Philippe Charlopin-Parizot Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2013 750ML ($249.95) Was $219, Now $194.91 with 11% off! – 12 bottles available

Wine Spectator 94 points “Bright and focused, exhibiting spicy black cherry, raspberry, earth, smoke, vanilla and toast aromas and flavors. Bracing acidity offsets the lush texture, driving this to a long, expansive finish. Best from 2019 through 2030.”

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Aux Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 750ML ($99.95) Was $69, Now $61.41 with 11% off! – 23 bottles available

Burghound 89-91 points “Here too discreet wood spice frames a pretty and cool mix of red and dark pinot fruit that is trimmed in warm earth nuances that are also reflected by the refined, pure and silky middle weight flavors. There is fine complexity and verve to the well-defined and persistent finish. A classic Chaignots of grace and harmony with no lack of aging potential.” BH

 

Louis Jadot Domaine des Heritiers En Caradeux Clos de la Croix de Pierre Rouge, Pernand-Vergelesses Premier Cru 2010 750ML ($99.95) Was $69, Now $61.41 with 11% off! – 27 bottles available

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.” WE

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

The next best price is $77.99

 

Domaine Dugat-Py Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvee Coeur de Roy Vieilles Vignes, Cote de Nuits 2009 750ML ($249.95) Was $199, Now $177.11 with 11% off! – 9 bottles available

Wine Advocate 91-93 points “The 2009 Gevrey-Chambertin Coeur du Roi is a dark, inward wine. It shows serious weight and density in its dark fruit and sensual personality. A blast of smoke, licorice and menthol informs the long, beautifully delineated finish. Anticipated maturity: 2024-2039.”WA

 

Maison Remoissenet Pere & Fils Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits 2011 750ML ($279.95) Was $169, Now $150.41 with 11% off! – 13 bottles available

Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2011 Clos de Vougeot is dense, compact and structured. Firm, chalky tannins support a core of bright red berries, mint, wild flowers and minerals. The 2011 possesses gorgeous clarity and focus, with more than enough underlying minerality to drink well for a number if years.” AG

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!

 

Domaine Henri Boillot Clos du Roi, Beaune Premier Cru 2009 750ML ($99.95) Was $75, Now $66.75 with 11% off! – 36+ bottles available

Stephen Tanzer 91-93 points “Saturated medium ruby. Deep aromas of kirsch, smoke, minerals, flowers and earth are reticent but pure. Big, rich and broad, with harmonious acidity framing the black cherry, chocolate and leather flavors. This classic, complete Beaune wine spreads out to saturate the palate, with lush tannins reaching the front teeth. Quite thick in the style of the vintage but without any excess weight.”ST

 

Serafin Pere & Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes, Cote de Nuits 2012 750ML ($139.95) Was $99, Now $88.11 with 11% off! – 28 bottles available

Antonio Galloni 90-92 points “One of the real gems in this range, the Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes wraps around the palate with gorgeous depth and dimension. Violets, cloves and menthol meld into a core of dark fruit. The vintage has given the Vieilles Vignes an extra bit of volume that is hugely appealing. All the elements fall into place effortlessly. This voluptuous Gevrey should offer a wide window of fabulous drinking.” AG

 

This already was the lowest listed price in the USA today – now it’s lower!

The next best price is $46.88 higher at $134.99!

 

Philippe Charlopin Gevrey Chamb Morceaux Vielles Vignes 2012 750ML ($99.95) Was $66, Now $58.74 with 11% off! – 34 bottles available

Wine Spectator 93 points “Exhibits fine purity to the cherry, berry and floral aromas and flavors. Elements of tobacco and earth add depth and the silky texture is backed by harmonious acidity and tannins. Excellent length. Best from 2017 through 2028.” B.S.

 

This is the only listing in the USA today!