October 5th, 2015
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Jump Start Special; New Week – New Arrivals; Staff Picks; Great Picks – Great Prices; 2008 Burgundy – Vintage Review; Giuseppe Quintarelli; Rene Geoffroy Champagnes; Case Deals; A Flock of Napas
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Jump Start Special
Arriving Late October
Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Caillottes 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Importer note “Francois has been vinifing “Caillottes” separately since 2005; the vineyard name refers to a type of soil found in Sancerre—very rocky and chalky.”
Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Culs de Beaujeu 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Importer note “The terroir of “Culs de Beaujeu” blends clay and chalk for a Sancerre that delivers more texture and supple fruit in the mouth.”
Francois Cotat Sancerre La Grande Cote 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Importer note “The cooler vineyard site (with its older, 40+ year old vines) of “Grand Côte” is the last to be harvested of all Francois’ small parcels; it delivers fruit that is incredibly precise and yet deeply complex in flavor.”
Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Monts Damnes 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Importer note “These “damned mountains” are so named for their steepness and challenge in harvesting. (The family invented a system where one slides down the hill on a cushion, picking grapes as you go.) The most chalky and chiseled of François’ Sancerres. Always the cornerstone of the Cotat canon.”
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This Week’s New Arrivals
OREGON
Chehalem Wines Gruner Veltliner, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($27.95) $20.90 special
Winery note “Chehalem may not sound Austrian, but our table often carries an Austrian slant, with their exquisite whites, Riesling, and Grüner Veltliner. We like to grow what we drink. We like to experiment and push the envelope.”
Alexana Revana Vineyard Riesling, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Winery note “Our estate vineyard’s cool microclimate consistently produces an off-dry style of Riesling with notes of white peach, honey and lychee fruit.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Alexana Revana Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Winery note “As our flagship Pinot Noir, this wine receives first priority on all of the fruit for the vintage expressing our entire estate’s diverse terroir. The Revana Vineyard is planted to 10 different clones of Pinot noir planted on 46 acres of our 80 acre estate with 18 distinctly different soil types. Nose – Bing Cherry, Cola, Spicebox & Fig Palate – Pomegranate, Cherry, Cola & Toast”
Crowley Entre Nous Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($31.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Winery note “This Pinot noir is our flagship blend. The wine is comprised exclusively of Pommard and Wadenswil clone Pinot noir from our best vineyard sites. Each barrel is hand selected resulting in a quintessential Oregon Pinot noir with extreme purity and depth of character.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
WASHINGTON
Cor Cellars Cabernet Franc, Horse Heaven Hills 2013 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Winery note “From stunning Alder Ridge Vineyard overlooking the Columbia River in the Horse Heaven Hills, this Cabernet Franc is the embodiment of pure refreshment. Aromas of raspberry, violets and ground coffee are balanced by a clean minerality that make this a beautiful and delicious wine.”
Long Shadows Sequel Syrah, Columbia Valley 2013 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special
Winery note “John Duval, formerly of Australia’s iconic Penfolds Grange, chose the Columbia Valley as his “Sequel” for the continuation of his life’s work with Syrah.”
Long Shadows Pirouette, Columbia Valley 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Another impeccable effort from this estate, the 2012 Pirouette checks in as a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc, all of which was barrel fermented (in 400-liter barrels) and spent 22 months in 75% new French oak. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and textured, with no shortage of fruit, it offers loads of chocolaty black fruits, cedar, lead pencil shavings and hints of graphite on the nose. Like most 2012s, it has ample underlying tannin that’s mostly hidden by the exuberant fruit and texture of the vintage. Give it 3-4 years and enjoy through 2027+. “JD
CALIFORNIA
Talley Vineyards ‘Oliver’s Vineyard’ Chardonnay, Edna Valley 2013 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Chardonnay Oliver’s Vineyard is brilliant and one of the more racy, steel and lively whites in the lineup. Giving up lots of citrus blossom, salt block, mineral and a touch of white flowers, it’s medium-bodied, balanced and elegant, with beautiful tension and vibrancy. Completely barrel fermented and aged in 20% new French oak, it’s one serious, classy Chardonnay that represents a terrific value at this quality level.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Talley Vineyards Rincon Vineyard Chardonnay, Arroyo Grande Valley 2013 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “Coming from loam and calcareous soils and aged on lees for 14 months in 20% new French oak, the 2013 Chardonnay Rincon Vineyard offers lots of saltiness and mineral characteristics to go with exotic green herbs, citrus and stone fruit-like aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, balanced, clean and classy, with both stunning freshness and notable length and depth of flavor, it’s another terrific white from this team that will have a decade or more of longevity.” JD
FRANCE-LOIRE
Branchereau Domaine des Forges Savennieres Moulin de Gue 2013 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
“This full-bodied, rounded wine has good minerality. Ideal decanted and served cool with scallops, river fish, white pudding with truffle and white meats. The grapes are harvested manually, by two or three successive passes in the vineyard to collect grapes which are golden or where noble rot is starting. Botrytis makes the wines fatter and fuller. Temperature-controlled fermentation brings out the best of the Chenin’s aromatic character. Partial malolactic fermentation. Aged meticulously on the lees with batonnage in 400-litre barrels for around 11 months.”–Winery Notes
This is the only listing in the USA today!
FRANCE-LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON
Domaine Leon Barral Faugeres, Languedoc-Roussillon 2012 750ML ($37.95) $31.90 special
50% Carignan, 30% Grenache, 20% Cinsault; 40-70 year old vines
Domaine Leon Barral Faugeres Jadis, Languedoc-Roussillon 2012 750ML ($51.95) $44 special
50% Carignan, 30% Syrah, 20% Grenache; 30-60 year old vines
Domaine Leon Barral Faugeres Valiniere, Languedoc-Roussillon 2012 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
80% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, 15-30 year old vines
ITALY-TUSCANY
Casanova di Neri ‘Rosso-Irrosso di Casanova di Neri’ Sant’Antimo 2013 750ML ($21.95) $19 special
Case-12 Casanova di Neri ‘Rosso-Irrosso di Casanova di Neri’ Sant’Antimo 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2013 Rosso di Casanova di Neri (Sangiovese/Colorino) is soft, juicy and expressive, with lovely overall depth and balance. Dark red stone fruits, flowers and spices meld into the pliant, expressive finish. The Rosso di Casanova is made from the estate’s young Rosso and Brunello vines, along with fruit from the Sant’Antimo appellation.” AG
San Felice Chianti Classico DOCG 2010 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “A classically styled wine, the 2010 Chianti Classico San Felice is composed of Sangiovese with additions of Colorino and Pugnitello. This second grape once faced extinction and has recently seen a small renaissance thanks to the efforts of San Felice’s winemaking team. The wine is rich with tart plum, rose petal and dried cherry. The palate offers smooth, velvety tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.” ML
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Masseria Li Veli Valdana Vigneto Montecristo Aleatico Passito dell’Elba DOCG 2007 500ML ($69.95) $49 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2007 Valdano Aleatico Passito d’Elba Vigneto Montecristo is a richer, darker wine than the Malvina. Chocolate, mocha, spices and dried fruits are some of the notes that flow from this opulent, rich dessert wine. This is without question an extreme style, but all of the elements are balance with remarkable harmony. (500 ml)” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $62.24
ITALY-PIEDMONT
Montaribaldi ‘Gambarin’ Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont 2013 750ML ($17.95) $14 special
Winery note “he Nebbiolo DOC Gambarin is a young red wine. Perfect to be enjoyed throughout the meal. Bouquet: Full and fruity with hints of violet and raspberry perfectly melted with spices. Taste: fruity and enveloping with soft and delicate tannins.”
Montaribaldi Palazzina, Barbaresco DOCG 2010 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special
Winery note “The Barbaresco DOCG Palazzina is a red wine, aged 20 months in oak barrels, produced with Nebbiolo grapes coming from the DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) area of Barbaresco. The Barbaresco DOCG Palazzina is an important, long-lived, elegant wine. It is perfect to be matched with salami, meat and cheese.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
ITALY-VENETO
Tenuta Sant’Antonio Selezione Antonio Castagnedi, Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2011 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “A slightly fresher and easier style compared to the Campo dei Gigli is offered by the 2011 Amarone della Valpolicella Selezione Antonio Castagnedi. The blend of fruit is the same as the other wine, but this Amarone sees a lighter oak regime with two years in tonneaux instead of three. The 2011 vintage is soft and warm with a lower threshold of aromatic complexity compared to 2010 and 2009. Its round fruit personality makes this wine more suitable for near-term drinking.” ML
ITALY-OTHER
Marco Felluga Collio Friulano, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Winery note “Straw yellow in color with bright green hues. The nose has distinct aromas of almond blossoms with a background of floral notes of hawthorn and chamomile. In the mouth, it is well-structured, silky and round. The alcohol, which is balanced by the wine’s fresh and fruity character, contributes to a long, pleasant finish.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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Staff Picks
Domaine Leon Barral Faugeres Jadis 2012 750ML ($51.95) $44 special
“I remember my first Faugeres wine like my first Jimi Hendrix record: I don’t recall where, or which it was, even, but I remember perfectly the feeling that this was unique, special, worthwhile… So many of the producers in Kermit Lynch’s portfolio have achieved that same effect, at once jarring and welcome. The Faugeres from Barral – like Hendrix – so wonderfully walks that line between edgy and suave, punk and soulful.
Didier Barral is a postcard producer for Lynch, someone to check in on from time to time to get a feel for that vintage and region, even if he’s riffing differently than the other guys. Farming biodynamically, he relies on a miniature ecosystem in order to work his vines. Cows, pigs, and horses graze freely, begetting mushrooms and earthworms and other beneficial lifeforms. Hippie stuff, but with a purpose.
“Jadis” is a blend of 50% Carignan, 30% Syrah, and 20% Grenache; all grapes are harvested and sorted by hand, then vinified in cement cuves with native yeasts. A month of maceration in old wooden vat is followed by a light pressing in a wooden basket press; the wine is then aged for roughly two years in barrel, almost all old. The resulting wine is tinged with rusticity, boasting dark fruit, licorice, and smoked meats. Hold onto a few if you can, but don’t feel bad for popping the cork if you’re feeling particularly groovy…”
-Tyler
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Great Picks – Great Prices!
CALIFORNIA
Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley 2010 750ML ($27.95) $16 special, 28 bottles available
Case-12 Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley 2010 750ML ($299.95) $169 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $14.08/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “This Cab is deeply layered, full-bodied and bone dry, with thick, raw-boned tannins that call for some time in the cellar. With modest alcohol and fine acidity, it will have no trouble negotiating the next 6–8 years, allowing the cherry and blackberry flavors to shine through.” WE
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $21
Freemark Abbey ‘Bosche’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 2004 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 15 bottles available
Robert Parker 94+ points “The 2004 Cabernet Bosche Vineyard, which sits on alluvial, gravelly soils in Rutherford and is one of Napa’s most famous vineyards, is absolutely brilliant. The blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot spent 24 months in French oak. This one is still young for a 2004. Its dense purple color, big sweet kiss of cola, vanilla, cedarwood, oodles of black currants and dark cherries, a hint of licorice and unsmoked cigar tobacco, make for a classic almost Pauillac-like style of wine. This is youthful, full-bodied, promising and should hit its peak in another 4-5 years and last at least another two decades.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $96.20
Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Stone Cote Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 22 bottles available
Case-6 Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Stone Cote Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2012 750ML ($319.95) $259 special, 5 six-packs available (that’s only $43.17/bottle!)
Robert Parker 93-95 points “The 2012 Chardonnay Stone Cote Vineyard (a block within the Durell Vineyard planted on gravelly riverbed soils) is 100% barrel-fermented and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Made from a combination of Old Wente clones and some of the newer Chardonnay clones, it exhibits a terrific wet rock/powdered stone-like minerality along with beautiful aromas of exotic fruits (mangoes and tangerines), great intensity, full body, terrific acidity, and 14.8% alcohol. This beautiful Burgundian-styled Chardonnay should be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $54
Hartford Family Winery ‘Hartford’ Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2013 750ML ($37.95) $27.50 special, 36+ bottles available
Case-12 Hartford Family Winery ‘Hartford’ Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2013 750ML ($349.95) $299 special, 6 cases available (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2013 Zinfandel Russian River Valley is an attractive, boisterous wine to drink now and over the next few years. Dark red cherry, raspberry, spice, and mint inform the juicy finish. The 2013 is gracious, inviting and pretty much impossible to resist.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $38
Hartford Family Winery ‘Hartford’ Dina’s Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2011 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 13 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2011 Zinfandel Dina’s Vineyard is another of the more polished wines in this lineup. Juicy dark cherries, plums, menthol, violets and new leather all take shape in this sensual, layered Zinfandel. This Dina’s is arguably the most complete wine in the range of 2011 Zinfandels. It should drink well pretty much right out of the gate, but also clearly has the potential to improve in bottle.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $54
Hartford Family Winery ‘Hartford’ Highwire Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2012 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $46, 26 bottles available
Case-12 Hartford Family Winery ‘Hartford’ Highwire Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2012 750ML ($599.95) $499 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $41.58/bottle!)
Robert Parker 95 points “The 2012 Zinfandel Highwire Vineyard, a site that is half head-pruned and half on a high wire trellising system, sees more new French oak (52%). A dense ruby/purple color is followed by a rich, full-bodied wine displaying lots of boysenberry, black raspberry and cherry fruit intermixed with hints of incense and Asian spice. Supple tannins and a big, pedal-to-the-metal, juicy, succulent style suggest it will drink well for 5-6 years.” RP
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $54
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Serafin Pere & Fils Gevrey-Chambertin 2012 750ML ($99.95) Was $69, Now $59, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 88-90 points “Medium red. Smoky strawberry and a whiff of gibier on the nose. The palate shows an almost liqueur-like sweetness to the creamy flavors of red fruits, coffee and mocha. Sappy acidity and substantial tannins give shape to this lush village wine.” ST
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is 33% higher: $79
ITALY-PIEDMONT
Sottimano Fausoni, Barbaresco DOCG 2011 750ML $69.95) $49 special, 21 bottles available
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2011 Barbaresco Fausoni is unusually supple, sexy and radiant. Freshly cut flowers, sweet red berries, tobacco and mint all lift from the glass. Fausoni often shows firmer, livelier tannins, but the warm 2011 vintage has softened the contours and yielded an inviting, resonant Barbaresco to drink now and over the next handful of years. Sweet floral notes from these soils rich in sand add the final nuances of complexity. What a gorgeous wine this is.”
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Crushed raspberry, blue flower, tilled soil and graphite aromas lead the nose on this firmly structured wine. It’s still very young and needs to open up fully, but the palate already displays breeding and class. It offers ripe black cherry, ground black pepper, licorice and grilled sage alongside tightly wound but fine tannins. Drink 2018–2026.”
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2011 Barbaresco Fausoni is initially slow to show its aromatic potential. As it evolves in the glass, it begins to reveal dark cherry, blackberry, cinnamon spice and dark cola. The style here is bold and thick. This wine also shows noticeable power with tight tannins and some astringency. It still needs time to unwind.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best priceis $55.99
Falletto di Bruno Giacosa Rabaja, Barbaresco DOCG 2005 750ML ($219.95) $133 special, 17 bottles available
Wine Spectator 95 points “There’s wonderful perfumes in this young Barbaresco, with flowers and ripe berries, as well as strawberry. Full-bodied, chewy and long. Massive on the finish. A superb wine.” WS
Wine Advocate 94+ points “The 2005 Barbaresco Rabaja is the densest and richest of these 2005 Barbarescos. Because it is aged in a slightly smaller cask, the wine shows an explosive personality along with some oak nuances that require bottle age to settle down. This muscular Barbaresco resonates on the palate with layers of spiced, mentholated dark cherries, minerals and licorice. It remains a dense, structured and primary wine in need of serious bottle age for the firm tannins to melt away. This, too, is a sublime wine from Bruno Giacosa. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2025.” WA
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $148.99
The average price is $180
Poderi Aldo Conterno Colonnello, Barolo DOCG 2006 750ML ($169.95) $119 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “A rich, sumptuous Barolo, with bass tones providing a full range of plum, earth and spice to match its more elevated floral and mineral notes. Firm, but not stiff, with a fine lingering aftertaste of tobacco and spice. Best from 2013 through 2030.”WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $127
Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 20 bottles available
Case-12 Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($799.95) $599 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $49.92/bottle!)
Case-6 Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia, Barolo DOCG 2009 750ML ($419.95) $329 special, 2 six-packs available (that’s only $54.83/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2009 Barolo Bussia is a magnificent wine that makes a bold opening statement thanks to the high caliber and intensity of its bouquet. Power and sheer determination set the wine on course smoothly over the palate and the quality of the tannin is firm and tense. The wine presents fruit characteristics of dried cherry and cassis that are not too obvious but are soon followed by delicate tobacco, Indian spice, cola, tar and licorice. It’s a picture-perfect young Barolo for 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $68
Giacomo Ascheri Pisapola, Barolo DOCG 2008 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 25 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points “This red is vibrant and pure, displaying cherry, raspberry, tobacco and earth aromas and flavors. Displays major grip on the finish, yet seems well-proportioned for a mid- to long-term evolution. Best from 2015 through 2028.” WS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $44
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2008 Burgundy
Theatre in the Round
Memory of the previous vintage – a difficult, though ultimately satisfactory one – was ripe once the 2008 season came around. Early summer seemed to be a mess of fluctuating weather, leading to a July full of mildew issues and loss of fruit. August swung around, with many a vigneron hanging their head low with doubt. Soon after, Hailstorms hit vineyards in the vicinity of Beaune.
September of 2008 came and saved the day, with plenty of sun and rather brisk winds which dried out the weathered vines. Temperatures dropped come harvest, which didn’t help much in terms of ripening. Stunningly low yields were almost uniformly reported, though the quality of clusters which survived shone through brightly. Accordingly, the successes of 2008 can be laid at the hands of a careful harvest and an ever closer edit on the sorting tables.
Burgundy often plays out like theatre, abounding with suspense, shock, heartbreak, and triumph. In the instance of this vintage, the hero has endured a formidable villain.
We have 15 different cuvees from the 2008 vintage, listed below.
Domaine Buisson-Charles Bouches-Cheres, Meursault Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 6 bottles available
Burghound 93 points –Sweet Spot Outstanding–“As elegant as the Goutte d’Or is, the Bouchères goes it one better with its mélange of white peach, spiced pear and dried rose petal aromas that slide gracefully into precise yet quite densely textured flavors that brim with dry extract and superb length. This is an explosive wine that finishes bone dry and manages to combine impressive power with balance and focus. I actually prefer the delivery of this to the Goutte d’Or but at present at least, it doesn’t quite have the same degree of complexity. A qualitative choice but both are worth considering.” BH
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Jean Thevenet Domaine de la Bongran Vire-Clesse Cuvee Tradition E.J. Thevenet 2008 750ML ($47.95) $39 special, 5 bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Henri Boillot Les Chevrets, Volnay Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 6 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91-94 points “Bright ruby-red. Expressive, very ripe nose combines black cherry, wild herbs, leather, smoke and earth. Wonderfully sweet and silky but bright, with a creamy small-berry character to the intense flavors of black cherry, iron, dark chocolate and minerals. For all its density, this conveys a juicy quality and considerable elegance.” ST
Domaine Henri Boillot Les Fremiets, Volnay Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 10 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Good deep red. Black cherry, licorice and herbs on the nose, given punch by strong peppery spices. Sweet, supple and nicely concentrated if a bit less complex and high-pitched than the 2009 version. Lovely black cherry fruit displays a tangy sweetness. The very long finish features dusty, fine-grained tannins. The crop level here was just 18 hectoliters per hectare, according to Boillot.” ST
Domaine de la Pousse d’Or Clos de la Bousse d’Or, Volnay Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 9 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2008 Volnay Clos de la Bousse d’Or is impeccable from start to finish. Elegant, refined aromatics weave into layers of fruit as this substantial Volnay shows off its class and purity. The finish is supple and delicate, with plenty of reserve. Anticipated maturity: 2023-2038.” AG
Domaine de la Pousse d’Or En Cailleret Clos des 60 Ouvrees, Volnay Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 13 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2008 Volnay Clos des Soixante Ouvrées possesses striking richness and depth. Deep, dark, and inward, the Soixante Ouvrées flows with the essence of black fruit, tar and licorice. This is a surprisingly big, rich wine for the year.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Thierry Violot-Guillemard Clos de Derriere St. Jean, Pommard Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 2 bottles available
Burghound 90 points “This offers a noticeable step up in finesse and aromatic elegance with pretty and very pure earthy red raspberry and cherry notes that blend into naturally sweet, rich and delineated middle weight flavors that carry obvious finishing minerality and solid punch. This is really quite a nice effort as the balance is impeccable and the overall impression is a Pommard of finesse and understatement.”BH
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Dupont-Tisserandot Les Cazetieres, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 17 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “A dark, almost brooding red, whose plum, black cherry and black currant fruit is sweet and permeating. Rich and supple, this picks up spice and mineral notes as it glides to the long finish. Best from 2012 through 2024.” WS
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Faiveley Les Saint-Georges, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2008 750ML ($129.95) $99 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92-94 points & Burghound 91-93 points “Palish medium red. Medicinal red cherry, minerals, crushed stone, violet, rose petal and white pepper on the noble nose. Wonderfully silky and pure, with ineffable flavors of red fruits, spices, flowers and minerals. This is wonderfully delicate, and not a fleshy wine, yet saturates every square millimeter of the palate with flavor. The long, sweet, rising finish offers terrific cut and floral lift. Should make a worthy successor to the outstanding 2007, which also transcends its village. Hervet says that this will be bottled by hand, without filtration.”ST
Domaine Faiveley Latricieres-Chambertin Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($189.95) $169 special, 3 bottles available
Burghound 94 points “A distinctly cool and ultra-elegant nose of restrained and exceptionally fresh mineral-infused red pinot fruit gives way to stone-inflected, tightly focused and delineated middle weight plus flavors that are beautifully tension-filled. This possesses a beguiling personality as there’s real verve and punch on the delicious but linear finish where more minerality surfaces. This strikingly persistent effort is not only classy but seriously lovely as the sense of harmony is second to none in this group. Moreover, because this is a wine of refined power, it could actually be enjoyed now though it seems a shame to waste so much upside potential.” BH
Domaine Faiveley Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($249.95) $159 special, 1 bottle available
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Good deep red. Ineffably complex aromas of wild red fruits, menthol, white pepper, minerals and powdered stone. A wine of great nobility, a bit imploded on entry, then wonderfully complex and aromatic in the middle, with terrific sappiness and energy to the lightly saline flavors of red fruits, spices, licorice and crushed stone. The rising, endless finish titillates the taste buds. This makes the Latricieres seem dry in comparison.” ST
Geantet-Pansiot Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($199.95) $179 special, 7 bottles available
Burghound 93 points “A reserved but fresh and very pretty nose of primarily red berries cut with hints of earth and oak that complements well the rich, full-bodied and powerful broad-schouldered flavors that are supported by a firm tannic spine and excellent dry extract levels that coat the palate on the beautifully long finish. This is head and shoulders above the rest of the range but note that patience will be required.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Domaine Jacques Prieur Chambertin Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($399.95) $249 special, 3 bottles available
Burghound 92-94 points “This cool and equally fresh and restrained nose offers notably denser and much more complex aromas of red and blue pinot fruit, violets, earth and pungent minerality that is very much in keeping with the backward and ultra primary flavors that are firm, intense and precise, all wrapped in an austere, driving and powerful finish. This has everything it needs to amply reward long-term cellaring and it will need it.”BH
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Domaine Jacques Prieur Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($199.95) $159 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “Impressively rich and dense, with dark plum and sweet fruits signalling opulence. The wine has power and intensity although it never loses the acidity of the vintage.” WE
Wine Spectator 92 points “A red full of macerated cherry, vanilla, sweet spices and mineral, this is both stylish and powerful. Still a bit rigid, but well-proportioned, with grip on the finish. Just a bit rustic in the end. Best from 2014 through 2030. 15 cases imported.” WS
Louis Latour Chateau Corton Grancey Grand Cru 2008 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 11 bottles available
Burghound 89-92 points “Mild wood influence does not compromise the transparency of the fresh and earthy red pinot fruit nose that exhibits a slight sauvage character that can also be found on the energetic, detailed and tautly muscled middle weight flavors that possess good richness and more refinement than usual on the serious, long and linear finish where a touch of austerity can also be seen.” BH
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Giuseppe Quintarelli
Long live the King of Valpolicella
Giuseppe Quintarelli, the “Master of the Veneto,” established a fantastic reputation as the benchmark producer in the Veneto in the northeast of Italy. He was famous for his Amarones, Recioto Valpolicellas and the ‘cult’ wine Alzero, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. He also was the inspiration for and instructor of many well-known producers in the region, including Romano Dal Forno. When he passed away at the age of 84 in 2012, he left behind a sixty-year legacy as the stalwart supporter of a traditional and conscientious approach to winemaking. His family now follows in his footsteps as the managers of the estate.
Giuseppe’s father, Silvio, was a sharecropper of vineyards in the Veneto. He first exported his wines to the US in 1900. After the First World War, Silvio purchased vineyard land and established his own winemaking estate in the hills surrounding the village of Negrar in the Veneto. Guiseppe began working with his father on the estate in the 1950’s, constantly attempting to improve the viticultural and vinicultural practices to improve the wines. He also enlarged the vineyard holdings to the now 27 acres of land. Today, the estate is managed by Giuseppe’s eldest daughter, Fiorenza, and her husband Giampaolo Grigoli. Their children, Francesco and Lorenzo, who worked under their grandfather, will take over production when their parents retire.
Giuseppe’s attention to detail and quality in the vineyard and during the long process of winemaking are what set him apart. He encouraged drastically small yields and trained the vines in the traditional Pergola Veronese system. This leads the vines to form a tall, protective canopy to keep the grapes from becoming damaged due to the hot sun. Shielding the grapes helps them retain acidity to produce a balanced wine. Multiple passes are made through the vineyards as each berry is selected for a specific wine. Most of the grapes are dried on traditional rush mats, in the appassimento method, before pressing. The wines are made in limited production; the estate produces 60,000 bottles a year on average. They are usually released 10 years after harvest, though they can age for decades longer.
The Amarone matures over 7-8 years in large Slavonian casks carved with elaborate Catholic imagery. It is only made in the best vintages, about two to three times a decade. During lesser vintages, the wines are bottled under the Rosso del Bepi name (Bepi was Giuseppe’s nickname). His Amarones are powerful yet retain a vibrant freshness and lush fruit character. The Valpolicellas are intense with structure, finesse and great aging potential. Due to the limited production levels, the exacting production methods requiring almost a decade before release, and the high demand for these wines, they are often difficult to find.
Giuseppe Quintarelli Wines Available Here Now
Giuseppe Quintarelli ‘Amabile del Cere’ Passito Bianco Veneto IGT 2003 375ML ($279.95) $219 special, 2 half-bottles available
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2003 Amabile del Cere is a surprising wine. There is plenty of depth and power, but not any sense of heaviness, despite the torrid vintage. Burnt sugar, orange peel, cinnamon, dried figs and spices blossom in the glass as this gorgeous wine shows off its inimitable personality. This is another marvelous showing from Giuseppe Quintarelli. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023.” WA
Giuseppe Quintarelli Primofiore Veneto IGT 2010 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 2 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 90 points “Sweet tobacco, dried cherries, plums, savory herbs and menthol are all laced together in the 2010 Primofiore. This a distinctly savory Primofiore, with pretty floral and herbal notes that dominate over the fruit. Still, there is a lot to like in the 2010, most notable the purity and delineation of the flavors. A kick of acidity adds brightness on the finish. The Primofiore is a blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, with the Cabernets seeing a slight amount of drying.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $175
Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2001 750ML ($399.95) $349 special, 2 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2001 375ML ($199.95) $159 special, 1 half-bottle available
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2001 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is one of the more vintages of the Recioto, although in subsequent tastings the wine has begun to blossom more fully. Silky, layered and exceptionally polished on the palate, the 2001 flows with the essence of dark cherry, plum, licorice, dried flowers, savory herbs, menthol and spices. This is a relatively approachable vintage for the Recioto, with less explosiveness and lower residual sugar than some previous editions, but tons of balance and pure harmony. Simply put, there is nothing like a Quintarelli Recioto.”
The 375ML is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Giuseppe Quintarelli Ca del Merlo Veneto IGT 2004 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 4 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 11 bottles available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005 1.5L ($249.95) $219 special, 1 magnum available
Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005 3L ($599.95) $499 special, 1 double-magnum available
Antonio Galloni 89 points “Quintarelli’s 2005 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is laced with dried flowers, mint, dried cherries and anise. The fresh, cool growing season resulted in a bright, somewhat slender Valpolicella with lively acidity. At the same time, the flavors are a bit forward, suggesting, the 2005 needs to be enjoyed sooner rather than later.” AG
The magnum and double-magnum are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
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Rene Geoffroy Champagnes
Rene Geoffroy Empreinte Premier Cru Brut 2008 750ML ($69.95) $46 pre-arrival special
Rene Geoffroy Empreinte Premier Cru Brut 2008 375ML ($37.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Geoffroy’s 2008 Brut Empreinte is quite a bit brighter and more finely cut than the 2007, a reflection of the personality of the year. Lemon peel, white orchard fruit, flower and slate are all woven together in an intricate, classy fabric. Over time, the 2008 turns creamy and expressive, yet flavor profile is high-toned, bright and quite a bit more acid-driven than the 2007. Disgorged May 2014. Dosage is 10 grams per liter.” AG
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
Rene Geoffroy Rose de Saignee Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 pre-arrival special
Rene Geoffroy Rose de Saignee Premier Cru Brut NV 1.5L ($159.95) $128 pre-arrival special
Rene Geoffroy Rose de Saignee Premier Cru Brut NV 375ML ($37.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “(100% Pinot Noir; 10 g/l dosage; disgorged in June, 2014): Dark pink. An emphatically fruity nose evokes ripe red berries, tangerine and potpourri, with a hint of white pepper adding lift. Fleshy, seamless and broad on the palate, offering ripe raspberry and anise flavors that tighten up on the back half. Rich yet nervy, finishing with strong punch and cling and lingering florality. This Champagne could handle rich, strongly seasoned foods but it also has the nerviness to work with lighter dishes.” JR
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
Geoffroy Champagne Available Here Now
Rene Geoffroy Extra Brut Millesime 2002 1.5L ($319.95) $279 special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous Media 94 points “Light, bright gold. Peach nectar, poached pear, passion fruit, smoky lees and white flowers on the perfumed nose. Chewy orchard and pit fruit flavors are broad and palate-staining, with a late note of Meyer lemon adding lift and cut. Finishes with lingering honey, lees and vanilla notes and excellent clarity.” JR
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2002 Extra Brut Millesime is a rich, broad shouldered wine graced with tons of fruit. Vinification in French oak barriques gives the wine considerable depth, volume and spiciness. Layers of ripe, expressive varietal fruit flow from this rich, dramatic Champagne. A caressing, multi-dimensional finish rounds things out in style. As good as this is – and it is outstanding – I prefer Geoffroy’s wines made in steel. The blend is 60% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Meunier, with 2 grams per liter of dosage”WA
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A Case of Vinsanity!
Our case deals are listed on our website under “DozenDeals” or by searching for the name of the wine
We offer over 170 diverse, deeply discounted case prices, such as:
CALIFORNIA
Case-12 Girard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 750ML ($319.95) $249 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $20.75/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Girard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 27 bottles available
Winery notes “Deep crimson in color, with aromatics of ripe blackberry, toffee, and leather. The palate exudes black cherry cordial with fine-grained tannins on the finish, combined with warm vanilla and nutmeg. French oak barrel aging without overemphasis.”
Case-12 Girard Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 1 case available (that’s only $16.58/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Girard Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 2 bottles available
Wine Spectator 90 points “Loaded with ripe, jammy fruit, this has just enough structure to stay light-footed, with black cherry, toasty oak and spice aromas. Drink now through 2019.” WS
FRANCE-BURDGUNDY
Case-12 Joseph Drouhin ‘Drouhin-Vaudon’ Chablis 2013 750ML ($249.95) $199 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $16.58/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Case-6 Joseph Drouhin ‘Drouhin-Vaudon’ Chablis 2013 750ML ($119.95) $109 special, 1 six-pack available (that’s only $18.17/bottle!)
Joseph Drouhin ‘Drouhin-Vaudon’ Chablis 2013 750ML ($21.95) $19 special, 18 bottles available
James Suckling 92 points “This has a lovely texture and brightness with sliced apple and pineapple. Pineapple skin too. Medium to full body, long finish. From biodynamically grown grapes.” JS
FRANCE-RHONE
Case-12 Vignobles Brunier Domaine La Roquete Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos La Roquete Blanc 2013 750ML ($449.95) $376 special, 1 case available (that’s only $31.33/bottle!)
Vignobles Brunier Domaine La Roquete Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos La Roquete Blanc 2013 750ML ($47.95) $34.80 special, 15 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Rich, racy and very pure, with a gorgeous medley of yellow apple, star fruit, fennel, white peach, honeysuckle and wet stone notes that all ripple through the bright, mouthwatering finish. Long and well-cut. This has quietly become one of the appellation’s top whites. Drink now through 2020.” WS
Case-12 Vignobles Brunier Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable 2010 750ML ($479.95) $359 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Vignobles Brunier Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable 2010 1.5L ($119.95) $99 special, 1 magnum available
Vignobles Brunier Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasses du Diable 2010 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 31 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Slightly superior, revealing more minerality and a subtle, incremental building of flavor intensity, the 2010 Gigondas Terrasse du Diable offers lots of black raspberry, kirsch and floral characteristics along with an undeniable crushed rock minerality. Medium to full-bodied and elegant as well as impressively built, rich, pure and beautifully balanced, it can be enjoyed now and over the next 15 years.”
These are the lowest listed prices in the USA today!
SPAIN
Case-12 Alvaro Palacios ‘Les Terrasses’ Velles Vinyes, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($419.95) $359 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $29.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Alvaro Palacios ‘Les Terrasses’ Velles Vinyes, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($44.95) $36 special, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Brilliant ruby. Potent, mineral-laced raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by exotic floral and spice qualities, picking up white pepper and mocha accents with air. Seamless and sweet, offering silky red berry preserve flavors with a touch of allspice. Closes lively and precise, with sneaky tannins and a jolt of bitter cherry.” ST
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A Flock of Napas
Arriving in October
Screaming Eagle ‘Second Flight’, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($699.95) $599 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 96 points “The 2012 Second Flight may be the highest scoring second wine I have ever reviewed. A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc, it is completely different from the Screaming Eagle since the latter wine is at least 75% or more Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Merlot with only a tiny dollop of Cabernet Franc. The 2012 Second Flight offers up floral, blue and black fruit, mocha and white chocolate characteristics. It possesses full-bodied, silky flavors, and a finish that lasts 50+ seconds. It can be drunk now, but should evolve effortlessly for 12-15+ years”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2012 Second Flight kicks things up a notch. Dense, layered and voluptuous in the glass, the Second Flight impresses for its breadth and volume. Although only recently bottled, the 2012 nevertheless shows superb depth and tons of pure personality.”
Stephen Tanzer – Vinous 92-94 points “(53% merlot, 36% cabernet sauvignon and 11% cabernet franc): Sappy aromas of black raspberry, bitter chocolate, menthol, iron, violet and rose petal. Densely packed and broad, with an insinuating sweetness to the fine-grained flavors of dark berries, flowers, iron, hot bricks and minerals. Finishes classically dry, with lush tannins coating the front teeth. A very distinctive wine in the making.”
Case-6 Opus One, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($1,499.95) $1,349 pre-arrival special (that’s only $224.83/bottle!)
James Suckling 97 points “Glorious purity of fruit here with blackcurrants, blueberries, dark chocolate, fresh herbs and forest floor. Hints of mint. Full body, seamless tannins and wonderful balance. Tight and compacted tannins with beautiful fruit and great length. Hazelnut and chocolate. Goes on for minutes. One of the best Opus in years. Compacted and beautiful. Hard not to drink now but better in 2018. October 2015 release. This is 79% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc, 6% merlot, 6% petit verdot and 2% malbec. (4/21/15)”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Rich, powerful and seductive, the 2012 Opus One blossoms in the glass with superb textural richness and volume. Dark red and black fruit, smoke, cedar, new leather and tobacco all meld together as the 2012 shows off its personality. Fine, silky tannins support the huge, creamy finish. The 2012 has just been bottled, but it is superb. I expect the 2012 will offer a long and broad drinking window of pure pleasure. Drink: 2018-2032. (Dec 2014)”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Opus One Overture, Napa Valley 2012 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Vinopolnote: Overture is a multi-vintage cuvee; the current release vintage 2012 is blended with winery reserves of prior vintages to yield a wine fully pleasurable upon releases.
Winery note “Overture is the second wine of Opus One. Aged in French oak, Overture is comprised of the five classic Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Full bodied but approachable in its youth, Overture shows generous dark fruit aromas and flavors with a soft, supple mid-palate. As a fine wine, Overture will develop beautifully over time.”