Vinopolis October 13th Newsletter

 

OREGON
Patricia Green Reserve Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2013 ($24.95) $19.50 special

Evesham Wood Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2013 375ML ($19.95) $11.90 special

Domaine Drouhin Laurene Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2011 ($69.95) $59 special
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Brilliant red.  Vibrant red berry and spicecake aromas are deepened by notes of cola, sassafras and mocha.  Silky, penetrating and lively, with excellent clarity to its raspberry and cherry flavors.  Becomes more floral with air and finishes sweet, smoky and very long, with lingering spiciness and a suave floral pastille quality.”

 

Ken Wright Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2010 ($27.95) $24 special
Library Release- Wine Spectator 91 points “Velvety, spicy and appealing, featuring a broad texture without excess weight, this red delivers dark berry and plum flavors accented by clove and cinnamon overtones. Refined, this lingers impressively on the finish. Drink now through 2018.”

 

Tyee Cellars Estate Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2012 ($27.95) $21.90 special
-#1 Wine-Portland Monthly’s Top 50 Oregon Wines 99 points “This bright, balanced bottle from winemaker Merrilee Buchanan Benson melds classic pinot noir fruit flavors of cherries and cranberries with an herbaceous backbone of eucalyptus and tea tree.”

Vinopolnotes– the reviewers at Portland Monthly appear as very liberal with those points; but the fact is that their system of assigning points is different than the usual wine reviewers. They are not following a scale with 100 point perfection at the peak. They are assigning valuation of ranking within the larger population of candidates with best of those being a 100 point peek. This is a good Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, and a great price.

 

Antica Terra Botanica Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2012 ($89.95) $75 special
Winery’s note: “Botanica is always sappy and sanguine with a taste of wild rose, sour cherries, and blood orange. It is tempting to define them solely by their compelling texture and lush personality, but there is a structural element that is equally striking. This balance between extraordinarily concentrated fruit and intense levels of extract is the essence of the wine.  630 cases produced.”

 

Antica Terra Ceras Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2012 ($89.95) $75 special
Winery’s note: “Ceras is Botanica’s counterpoint. Its color is more purple than red. It is more about minerals and herbs than fruit and flowers. It is a focused and elegant distillation of rock rather than an opulent cascade of fruit. It is an expression of the geology that lays beneath our land, the tart blue fruits of the coast range and the tender herbs that one finds amongst the trees and mushrooms of the Northwest forest.  600 cases produced.”

 

J. Christopher ‘Dundee Hills Cuvee’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2012 ($39.95) $33 special
Winery notes: “This cuvée is a blend of selected barrels from several excellent vineyard sites in the red Jory clay of the Dundee Hills AVA. It shows the depth and power that are typical of this area, with classic savory and sanguine notes and a seamless acid sructure. The 2012 vintage includes barrels from Bella Vida, La Colina, Meyer, and Charlie’s vineyards.”

 

J. Christopher Lia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains 2012 ($49.95) $41.90 special

WASHINGTON
Quilceda Creek Columbia Valley Red 2011 ($79.95) $59 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2011 Columbia Valley Red Wine offers the classic creme de cassis, graphite, toasted spice and hints of licorice that seems to be present in all of the estate’s Cabernets. Medium to full-bodied, supple and already approachable, it nevertheless has the back-end stuffing to evolve gracefully for upwards of a decade.”

 

Gramercy Inigo Montoya Tempranillo Walla Walla Valley 2010 ($47.95) $39 special
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “(blended with 10% syrah):  Ruby-red.  Lovely aromatic nose and palate combine cherry and coffee elements.  Juicy, ripe and intense, with clearcut varietal character and excellent tannic spine.  Finishes ripe and long.  “Two thousand ten was our first true European-style vintage, with the flavors coming before the sugars,” noted proprietor Greg Harrington.”

 

 

CALIFORNIA
Landmark Grand Detour Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2009 375ML ($24.95) $16 special
Wine Advocate 89 points “The medium dark ruby-colored 2009 Pinot Noir Grand Detour is an intensely fragrant, super spicy effort offering notes of incense, spice box, herbs and Chinese black tea. The distinctive, super-sized aromatics give way to a classic palate revealing flavors of black cherry and berry fruit, silky tannins, decent acidity and a spicy, soft, round finish. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years. Given the overwhelming aromatics, this could be a controversial wine, but its classic flavors should prevail with most Pinot lovers.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA! And also the only listing for half-bottles of 2009.

 

Landmark Grand Detour Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2010 750ML ($49.95) $29 special
James Suckling 93 points, Wine Spectator 91 points “Notably earthy in a pleasant way, this Pinot is firm, loamy and slow to build, with its dark berry core of flavors. Once there, the flavors are intense and persistent, compelling yet begging for a cellar slumber. Best from 2013 through 2021.” WS

Vinopolnotes– The average price is 17% higher at $34 / bottle

 

Turley Zinfandel Rose 2013 ($27.95) $19 special – Not listed on our website; please call or email to order.
Winemaker Notes: “We pick a small portion of our estate Zinfandel vines early (at about 19 brix) to make this bright, dry rosé. High in acid, low in alcohol, thoroughly refreshing – though more akin to French rosés from Provence in the way it’s made, this wine is distinctly California. White Zinfandel has a good heart but a bad reputation; hopefully we can help change that.” – Not listed on our website; please call or email to order.

 

Turley Zinfandel Juveniles 2012 ($49.95) $39 special – Not listed on our website; please call or email to order.
Wine Spectator 91 points “Sleek, ripe and youthful, offering jammy raspberry aromas and flavors, with zesty notes of smoky spice and grilled anise. Drink now through 2019.”

 

 

FRANCE- CHAMPAGNE
Guy Charlemagne Champagne Brut Nature NV ($44.95) $33 special
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “(70% chardonnay and 30% pinot noir; no dosage):  Pale gold.  Fresh lime, lemongrass and white flowers on the mineral-tinged nose.  Dry and tightly focused, offering an array of bitter citrus fruit flavors and a strong chalky quality.  Finishes with very good clarity, bite and lingering minerality.  This nervy, uncompromising Champagne would be fantastic with oysters.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!

 

Guy Charlemagne Champagne Blanc De Blancs Brut Reserve Grand Cru NV ($49.95) $39 special
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.”

Vinopolnotes– Lowest listed price in the USA! The average price is 20% higher at $47 / bottle.

 

Moet Chandon Champagne Grand Vintage Brut 2006 ($79.95) $49 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points ” Moët’s 2006 Brut Grand Vintage is beautiful, finessed and expressive. Smoke, slate, apricot and pastry notes emerge as the wine gradually unfolds. Rich and textured on the palate, yet beautifully supported by veins of minerality, the 2006 is simply impeccable from the very first taste. The richer, honeyed notes typical of Chardonnay in this vintage are particularly evident today while the Meunier, which has higher acidity, keeps things bright, although it plays a lesser part in the overall blend than in years past. The 2006 is 42% Chardonnay, 39% Pinot Noir and 19% Pinot Meunier. Dosage is 5 grams/liter.”

 

 

FRANCE- BURGUNDY
Thibert Macon-Prisse En Chailloux 2013 ($24.95) $21.90 special
Vinopolpick  “A treat; just a whole lot of prim and proper Chardonnay in a glass of this wine.”

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Bousselots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 ($89.95) $79 special
Burghound 89-91 points “The well-layered mélange of red currant, blue berry and wet stone nuances marries seamlessly into slightly earthy, precise and energetic flavors that possess a firm but not hard tannic spine, all wrapped in a delicious and saline-infused finish. This is also quite understated yet stylish and I very much like the purity of expression.”

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Cailles, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 ($139.95) $99 special
Burghound 92-94 points “As complex as the Pruliers is, the Les Cailles ratchets it up yet another notch with its spicy and pure blend of cassis, plum, violet and distinct iron-infused earth. There is excellent richness to the cool and equally pure medium-bodied flavors that possess excellent focus on the explosively long finish. The tannins are dense but quite fine and this offers outstanding upside development potential.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA! The average listed price is 27% higher at $26 / bottle.

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Aux Chaignots, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 ($99.95) $79 special 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.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA! The average listed price is $98 / bottle.

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Perrieres, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 ($109.95) $89 special
Burghound 90-92 points “Here the nose just soars from the glass to reveal strikingly fresh and pure red berry fruit, wet stone and discreet earth hints. There is an equally striking sense of energy to the precise, intense and stony middle weight flavors that possess very fine balance and depth, all wrapped in a lingering and notably firm finish that suggests that this will need 10 to 12 years to reach its apogee.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA!

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Pruliers, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 ($99.95) $79 special
John Gilman 93 points “The 2011 Chevillon Pruliers is a classic in the making, with its very black fruity and soildriven personality delivering a complex and very pure bouquet of black cherries, dark berries, gamebirds, fresh herb tones, woodsmoke, dark soil tones and coffee bean. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and quite broad-shouldered, with a rock solid core of fruit, excellent soil drive, ripe tannins and a very long, precise and transparent finish. Like the 2010 Pruliers, the 2011 is a very elegant young rendition of this fine wine.”

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Les Roncieres, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru 2011 ($99.95) $79 special
Burghound 90-93 points “There is a trace of herbal tea that adds breadth to the otherwise exceptionally fresh and equally pure red currant and wild cherry aromas. There is really beautiful intensity to the precise flavors that are on the lighter side yet deliver that wonderful quality of power without weight. This is first rate as it’s balanced, harmonious and offers excellent depth and length.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA! The average listed price is 24% higher at $98 / bottle.

 

Domaine Robert Chevillon Nuits-Saint-Georges Vieilles Vignes 2011 ($69.95) $51.90 special
Burghound 87-89 points “A discreet touch of wood sets off equally fresh and bright red berry fruit and soft earth aromas that give way to mouth coating, delicious and vibrant medium-bodied flavors that possess good mid-palate concentration, all wrapped in a seductively textured, balanced and solidly persistent finish.”

Vinopolnotes– This is the lowest listed price in the USA! The average listed price is over 30% higher at $69 / bottle.

 

 

FRANCE-BORDEAUX
Chateau Saint Pierre Saint Julien 2005 ($119.95) $99 special
Robert Parker 93 points “Smart consumers should be checking out this estate whose wines have been superb over recent vintages. Under the same ownership as Gloria, it is a classic St.-Julien with sensational concentration and intensity, but more powerful, thick, and muscular than wines such as Ducru Beaucaillou or Beychevelle. The 2005 possesses the vintage’s structured, tannic mouthfeel as well as enormous concentration and massive extract. It exhibits plenty of earthy creme de cassis intermixed with notes of forest floor, licorice, and roasted meats. Backward with huge tannin, full body, and the potential for 3-4 decades of aging, this superb St.-Julien will get even better over the next 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040.”

 

Chateau Leoville Poyferre St Julien 2010 ($249.95) $199 special
Robert Parker 98+ points “The wine out distances both Leoville Las Cases and Leoville Barton, but all three of them are compelling efforts. Full-bodied, dense purple in color, with floral notes intermixed with blackberries, cassis, graphite and spring flowers, this full-bodied, legendary effort is long and opulent, with wonderfully abundant yet sweet tannin, a skyscraper-like mid-palate and a thrilling, nearly one-minute finish. This spectacular effort from Poyferre that should drink well for 30+ years.”

 

 

FRANCE- RHONE
Aphillanthes Cotes Du Rhone Cuvee Les Cros 2011($24.95) $21.90 special
Wine Advocate 90 points “Rarely does a 100% Syrah cuvee from the Southern Rhone rock my boat (with a few exceptions such as Fonsalette’s Cuvee Syrah), but Aphillanthes’ 2011 Cotes du Rhone Les Cros does just that. Made from 100% Syrah aged in small barrels and larger demi-muids, this is a superb, opaque purple-colored, full-bodied Syrah boasting lots of creme de cassis, camphor and floral notes. With soft tannins, low acidity and a rich, deep, multidimensional and layered mouthfeel, it should age nicely for a decade or more.”

 

Aphillanthes Cotes Du Rhone Rasteau 2011 ($39.95) $33 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Even better and one of the wines of the vintage, the spectacular 2011 Rasteau 1921 is comprised of 90% Grenache, 7% Mourvedre and 3% Carignan, with the Grenache coming from vines planted in 1921. Offering up a stunning bouquet of black raspberry, licorice, spring flowers, underbrush and lavender, this medium to full-bodied, elegant, yet substantial 2011 has gorgeous overall balance, solid mid-palate depth and sweet tannin that comes through on the finish. Count me a fan. This seriously impressive Rasteau will drink well for upward of a decade. Drink now-2023.”

 

Saint Cosme Cote Rotie 2012 ($79.95) $69 special
Stephen Tanzer 92-94 points “(made from whole-cluster serine grown in the Cote Brune and aged in a 50/50 combination of new and one-year-old barriques): Brilliant ruby. Smoke-accented cassis and cherry-cola on the nose, with suave floral and Indian spice nuances adding an exotic touch. Sweet dark berry preserve and violet pastille flavors show very good depth, with a peppery, spicy quality emerging with air. In an elegant style, finishing smooth, sweet and very long.”

 

Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage 2012 ($34.95) $29 special
Wine Advocate 90-92 points “The 2012 Crozes Hermitage shows more oak in its dark fruits, chocolate, graphite and licorice-driven personality. Medium to full-bodied, rich and nicely concentrated, it has the stuffing to handle a year or so in the cellar and shine for upwards of a decade.”

 

Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph 2012 ($39.95) $33 special
Stephen Tanzer 91-93 points “(all serine): Dark purple. Vibrant black and blue fruit aromas are complicated by olive, violet, black tea and smoky minerals. Juicy and precise on entry, then fleshier in the mid-palate, offering intense, mouthcoating cassis and blueberry flavors given spine by tangy acidity. Shows excellent clarity on the sweet, seamless, very persistent finish.”

 

 

FRANCE- LANGUEDOC/PROVENCE
Clos Marie Pic St Loup Manon Blanc 2012 ($31.95) $26 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “Pure and lively, with both richness and freshness, the 2012 Coteaux du Languedoc Manon Blanc offers plenty of apple, mineral and hints of lime to go with a medium-bodied, integrated and balanced palate. It will be versatile on the dinner table and drink nicely for a number of years.”

Vinopolnotes– A blend of seven varietals from Pic St Loup, just south of the Rhone Valley heading into the Provence/ Languedoc region, mostly from Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris.

 

Clos Marie Pic St Loup Metairies Du Clos Vieilles Vignes 2010 ($39.95) $36 special
Wine Advocate 93-94+ points “Tasted from barrel, the Clos Marie 2010 Coteaux du Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Metairies du Clos Vieilles Vignes represents a co-fermentation of Carignan with Syrah and Grenache, which Peyrus and Julien’s consider the ideal process for this cuvee. A wealth of spice and floral perfume (the latter no doubt accentuated by vendange entier) seduces the nose; then adds to a lush yet bright profusion of dark berries shadowed by hints of game and a savory undertone of meaty pan scrapings. This finely-textured wine finishes with smoky, spicy pungency; mouthwatering salinity; cut; and exhilarating, refreshing persistence. It should be exciting to follow for at least a decade.”

 

Clos Du Serres Humeur Vagabonde 2011 ($39.95) $33 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2011 Coteaux du Languedoc Terrasses du Larzac l’Humeur Vagabonde highlights the old-vines Carignan of the estate. Comprised of 50% Carignan (100-year-old vines) and 25% each of Grenache and Syrah, it gives up a brilliant array of blackcurrants, licorice, old leather, damp earth and liquefied herbs to go with a medium to full-bodied, layered and seamless profile on the palate. Gaining additional structure with time in the glass, this beauty has solid mid-palate depth, ample underlying structure and a big finish. Give it another year and enjoy bottles through 2021. ”

 

Tribouley Cote du Rousillon Mani 2011 ($21.95) $18 special
Wine Advocate 90 points “The most straightforward in the lineup, the 2011 Cotes du Roussillon Mani is still an outstanding wine. Perfumed and complex, with loads of scrub brush, sage, juniper, violets and leather, as well as a slightly funky undercurrent, it is medium-bodied, fresh and lively, with a focused, straight feel, notable tannin and bright acidity. Nicely balanced, it lacks the depth of richness of the other cuvees, and the tannin and structure are more prominent. Enjoy this solid effort over the coming 5-7 years or so.”

Vinopolnotes– Biodynamically produced blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah.

 

Tribouley Les Bacs Vieilles Vignes IGP Cotes Catalanes 2011 ($31.95) $28 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Along the same lines, yet with more dark fruit, toasted nut, leather, brine and violets, the 2011 Les Bacs Vieilles Vignes is a gorgeous effort that shows both fabulous aromatic complexity and full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. Layered, rich and with serious minerality that comes out with time in the glass (I followed all of these releases for two days), this is a must taste for any Roussillon lover and it’s a killer value. While it has the fruit and texture to shine today, there’s ample underlying structure to keep it evolving nicely for 12-15 years.”

Vinopolnotes– 65% Grenache Noir with Carignan taking up the balance.

 

Tribouley Les Orchis IGP Cotes Catalanes 2011 ($31.95) $28 special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Offering a knockout (if not slightly feral/wild) bouquet of sweet blackberry, currants, resinous scrub brush, violets and pepper, Tribouley’s 2011 Cotes Catalanes Orchis is an incredible value that hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, fantastic mid-palate richness and sweet tannin that starts to emerge on the finish. Reminding me of a release from Gauby, with a slightly exotic, hard-to-describe quality that’s enhanced by loads of fruit and texture, this beautiful effort makes the most of the vintage and should put a smile on everyone’s face over the coming decade.”

Vinopolnotes– 100% Grenache, all biodynamically farmed.

 

Daniel Bouland Chiroubles 2012 ($29.95) $24 special
Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2012 Chiroubles comes from 60-year-old vines on sandy soils and undergoes a semi-carbonic maceration. It has a composed and refined bouquet with dark cherries and bergamot scents that unfurl in the glass. The palate is fresh and well-defined with a fine thread of acidity. This is very harmonious and approachable, with just the right amount of tension on the finish. Drink now-2017.”

 

Daniel Bouland Cote De Brouilly Cuvee Melanie 2012($29.95) $24 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2012 Cote de Brouilly Cuvee Melanie comes from 60-year-old vines planted in sandy soil and undergoes a semi-carbonic maceration. It has a bright bouquet of red currant and raspberry leaf scents that are well-defined and natural. The palate is very well-balanced with good structure and plenty of fresh red cherry and strawberry fruit. The finish is refined and focused – a top class Cote de Brouilly. Drink now-2018.”

 

Daniel Bouland Morgon Corcelette Vieilles Vignes 2012 ($29.95) $24 special
Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2012 Morgon Corcelette comes from 60-year-old vines and IS aged in foudres. It has a broodier nose than the Cote de Brouilly with dusky blackberry and briary scents, touches of wild hedgerow and woodland. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. It is very well-balanced, but there is something introspective toward the finish that is very engaging and urges you to take another sip. Drink now-2020.”

 

Daniel Bouland Morgon Cuvee De Lys 2012 ($29.95) $24 special
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2012 Morgon Vieilles Vignes comes courtesy of 60-year-old vines. It has an understated bouquet of raspberry, tilled earth and briary scents that unfold in the glass. The palate is crisp and fresh with a slightly higher acidity than the Corcelette, but with more tension and vibrancy on the finish. This is another superb Morgon from Daniel Bouland. Drink now-2020.”

 

 

 

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Arriving This Week

 

White Rose Estate Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2012 ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 91 points “Ruby-red. Sexy, spice-laced dark berry and cola aromas pick up floral and mineral qualities with air. Silky and expansive on the palate, offering juicy black raspberry and cherry compote flavors and a bracing kick of peppery spices. Shows a refreshingly tangy bite on the finish, which clings with excellent persistence and a suave lavender pastille note.”

 

White Rose Estate Guillen Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012 ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Brilliant ruby. Sexy, assertively perfumed aromas of red and dark berries, Asian spices and cola, with a powerful floral jolt. Fleshy, sweet and expansive in the mouth, offering vibrant blackberry and cherry compote flavors that are lifted and braced by juicy acidity. Fine-grained tannins build slowly on the strikingly long finish, which leaves smoke and floral pastille notes behind.”

 

White Rose Estate ‘The Neo-Classical Objective’ Pinot Noir 2012 ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 93 points “(made entirely with whole clusters): Vivid red. Exotically perfumed scents of raspberry liqueur, five-spice powder, potpourri and vanilla bean, with a smoky mineral quality in the background. Nervy red fruit and floral pastille flavors gain weight and sweetness with air, picking up a touch of blood orange. Deftly plays richness off vivacity and finishes with outstanding clarity and length and a hint of silky tannins.”

 

White Rose Estate Winemaker’s Cuvee Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2012 ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 94 points “Bright ruby-red. Pungent aromas of redcurrant, cherry skin, sassafras and potpourri, with a high-pitched, spicy quality adding vibrancy. Energetic red fruit flavors show a sexy, liqueur-like quality, with complicating notes of blood orange, rose and smoky minerals. Silky, seamless and sweet, finishing with excellent clarity and harmonious tannins. This extremely elegant pinot boasts a compelling blend of richness and energy, and the structure to age.”

 

White Rose Estate, Estate Vineyard 2012 ($129.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Vivid ruby-red. Potent mineral- and spice-accented scents of candied red fruits, Asian spices and potpourri, with a deeper licorice nuance in the background. Vibrant red and dark berry flavors show liqueur-like power without any excess weight. Spicy, incisive pinot with serious finishing thrust, silky tannins and a suave floral pastille quality that clings on the finish.”

 

Domaine Pierre Guillemot Savigny-les-Beaune White Dessus les Gollardes 2011 ($41.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 90 points “Sweet aromas of burning vine cuttings lead to lemon cake, apple and mineral flavors in this well-textured white. Firms up on the finish, with lingering lemon and stone notes. Best from 2015 through 2020.”

 

Domaine Pierre Guillemot Les Narbantons, Savigny-les-Beaune Premier Cru 2011 ($41.95) $31.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 89 points “Polished, with a supple texture backing the black cherry, violet, spice and smoke flavors. This offers grip and a chalky feel, showing herbal accents on the finish. Drink now through 2020.”

 

Nicolas Perrin Crozes Hermitage 2012 ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “This red offers a broad, fleshy feel, delivering flavors of dark plum, cherry and blackberry embedded with notes of fruitcake, black licorice and sweet spices. The toasty frame is well-integrated, and the sanguine-tinged finish offsets the fruit. Drink now through 2015.”

 

Domaine Charvin Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2012 ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93-96 points “More backwards and tannic, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape (same blend as the 2012) was tight and structured at the time of this tasting (as was the 2011, which was much more approachable and open when I tasted it from a bottle in the U.S.), with serious pepper, herbs de Provence and assorted darker berry-styled fruit. Cutting a broad path across the palate, with full-bodied richness, bright acidity and edgy tannin, it should soften up over the next year and be reasonably accessible with short-term cellaring. A solid 12-15 year drink window sounds about right. Drink 2016-2027. Consistently producing lively, fresh and elegant efforts that never lack for structure or richness, Domain Charvin is run by the soft spoken and generous Laurent Charvin. The winemaking here is very traditional, with some stem inclusion and aging completely in tank.”

Vinopolnotes– Approximately 80% Grenache for each wine with small amounts of Vacaresse and Mourvedre as well as small amounts of Carignan and Bourboulenc, all from vines averaging 50 years of age.

 

Domaine de Ferrand Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2012 ($69.95) $56 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 91-94 points “Moving to the Chateauneufs, and a blend of 95% Grenache, 2% Mourvedre, 2% Mourvedre and 1% Bourboulenc, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape is a fresh, elegant and medium to full-bodied effort that offers up notions of crushed flowers, sappy underbrush and licorice. Very fresh, yet with solid mid-palate depth and perfect balance, it should be approachable on release and have over a decade of longevity. Drink 2014-2024.”

 

Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse 2012 ($79.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “As to the 2012s, both showed beautifully from barrel, and if the 2011s are any guide, have some upside. The 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape La Guigasse (same blend/elevage as the 2011) offers up a gorgeous bouquet of sappy herbs, garrigue, rosemary and mulled blackberry and currant fruit. Impressive all around, it shows the purity and freshness of the vintage and has medium-bodied richness, good mid-palate concentration and chewy tannin. Short-term cellaring might be in order here and it should have 12-15 years of total longevity. Drink 2015-2027.”

Massolino Barolo DOCG 2010 ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 92 points“The 2010 Barolo is gorgeous. Sage, rosemary, tar, dried rose petals and sweet spices meld together. An impeccable, perfumed Barolo, the 2010 impresses for its balance. Fine, silky tannins support the gracious finish in this medium-bodied, refined Barolo. Readers who want to get a sense of what the 2010 vintage is all about will want to check out this fabulous effort from Massolino. This is decidedly a medium-bodied style for Serralunga, but it works.”

Bodega Rio Elorza Verum Chardonnay Patagonia 2012 ($19.95) $10.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Bodega Rio Elorza Verum Chardonnay Patagonia 2012 ($199.95) $99 pre-arrival special (that’s only $8.25 / bottle!)**
Stephen Tanzer And Wine Advocate 88 points “Bright pale yellow.  Slightly liqueur-like tropical fruits dominate the nose.  Bright, subtle stone fruit flavors are lifted by flowers and complicated by a touch of vanillin oak.  Supple, pliant, moderately concentrated chardonnay with understated stone fruit flavors and a slightly edgy finish.”

 

Bodega Rio Elorza Verum Malbec Patagonia 2012 ($21.95) $11.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Bodega Rio Elorza Verum Malbec Patagonia 2012 ($249.95) $119 pre-arrival special (that’s only $9.91 / bottle!)**
Wine & Spirits 91 points, Wine Enthusiast 88 points “”From eight-year-old vines, malbec’s softness plays into this wine’s youthful character – tasting like freshly bottled fruit captured in the wild. Violet scents join cherry flavors in a tense wine packed with extract. Best Buy.”

 

** Case prices offered on a limited time, limited volume basis

 

 

 

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Spotlight 

New Arrival Oregon Pinot Noir

Great Pinot noir is made in the vineyard.

Husband and wife team, Tom and Deb, discovered a 28 acre parcel of land in the Chehalem Mountains AVA near Newburg, Oregon.  They began the arduous work of clearing and planting the previously uncultivated land in the late 1990s.  By 1999, they had begun planting their estate vineyard.  Using primarily Pommard and Dijon 667 and 777 clones, they planted 16 acres.  The parcel is at a high elevation for the AVA at 700 feet and overlooks the Eola Hills.  The soil is rocky, which Pinot Noir loves.  They release small production bottling showcases different clones and aspects of the vineyard.  Typical notes that show through vintage to vintage are distinct Asian spice and earthy aromas.
The Equinoxe is a cuvee using fruit from the crest of the estate and is produced by Jim Sanders of Aubichon Cellars.  The Diversite cuvee highlights the diverse range of aspects and clones throughout the estate vineyard, including blocks reserved specifically for this bottling.  The Rocheux bottling is from the rockier western side of the vineyard which has volcanic soils.  It is a fairly equal blend of Pommard and Dijon 777 clones that are fermented separately.  Today it is produced by winemaker Jacqueline Yoakum.

They produce several barrel-selection wines in addition to their vineyard selections.  The Merci Reserve showcases California clonal selections including the Calera, Swan and Mount Eden.  The Red Label is a selection of smaller parcels from the estate vineyard.

 

Le Cadeau New Arrivals

 

Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Estate Red Label Willamette Valley 2011 ($39.95) $34.50 special 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “Representing a late-bottled assemblage from Le Cadeau’s different blocks, what they refer to as their “Red label” 2011 Pinot Noir is delightfully scented with rose petal, smoky black tea, cherry and blackberry. Lithe, lean, and light in color, it exhibits energy and grip, mouthwatering salinity, and exhilarating sheer refreshment. Smoked meat and alkaline notes add to the tart berry, tea-like and saline notes of a long finish faintly marked by tannic grit. Whether the barrel lots that made up this admittedly rather delicate cuvee were deemed inferior or simply didn’t fit the eventual single-vineyard assemblages, there’s no way that the quality is in any way inferior, an impression I took the opportunity to confirm alongside its ostensible betters after the bottle had been open for a day. I’d plan to enjoy it through at least 2018.”

 

Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Rocheux Willamette Valley 2011 ($59.95) $49 special 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The Le Cadeau 2011 Pinot Noir Rocheux–which had only just been bottled the week I visited the property in July, and I consequently postponed tasting until September–is spirited and bright, with an invigorating tang of berry skin to its tart cherry and a seedy crunch to its red raspberry. Sappy and mouth-filling though lean in texture, it finishes with a mouthwatering influx of salinity as well as notes of juniper berry, sage, black pepper, resin, crushed stone and tar that solidify its sense of stimulating impingement and sheer grip. This ought to perform well through at least 2025.”

 

Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Diversite Willamette Valley 2012 ($59.95) $49 special 2 cases available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Brilliant ruby-red.  Powerful, mineral-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry-cola and lavender, with exotic clove and star anise nuances.  Smooth and velvety in the mouth, offering sappy flavors of red and dark berries, cherry compote, candied flowers and blood orange.  Closes sappy and very long, with resonating spiciness and smooth, late-arriving tannins.”

 

Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Equinoxe Willamette Valley 2012 ($59.95) $49 special 2 cases available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Vivid ruby-red.  Intense spice- and mineral-accented dark berry and cherry aromas are complicated by cola and incense.  Deeply pitched black raspberry and floral pastille flavors are lifted by a nervy mineral quality and show excellent clarity and thrust.  Clings with real authority on the persistent finish, which features supple tannins and a touch of smokiness.”

 

 

More Here Now from Le Cadeau

 

Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Rocheux Willamette Valley 2010 ($49.95) $40.90 special 8 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The Le Cadeau 2010 Pinot Noir Rocheux spent 15 months in one-third new barrels, and delivers a pronounced blue and black fruit sweetness I associate especially with the Dijon clone 777 that made up half of its eventual blend (the rest being Pommard selection that almost certainly is responsible–perhaps along with the rocky site itself–for the results being anything but superficially fruity and shallow). Subtle notes of nutmeg and vanilla along with a satisfying savor of pan drippings and generally animal fat savor add allure to the rich fruit on a satiny palate, and this finishes with soothing and persistently, mouthwateringly seductive richness. I expect one will want to follow it for at least ten or twelve years.”

 

Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Merci Reserve Chehalem Mountains 2011 ($74.95) $61.90 special 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The Le Cadeau 2011 Pinot Noir Merci Reserve – a bottling first essayed in vintage 2009 but tasted by me for the first time this year – is named for the generosity of those who made it possible for Mortimer to plant the stony lowest section of Le Cadeau with a who’s who (as well as a hush-hush or two) of California heirloom selections. The rough break down of selection heritage is nearly half Calera and most of the balance around equal parts Swan and Mount Eden. Vinification (which in my Issue 202 report I erroneously attributed to Steve Ryan) is overseen by Jim Sanders, who tells me that – just as one’s palate suggests – “it’s a different animal you’re dealing with in the cellar from these vines,” though he left most of his explanation of that difference at a metaphoric level, noting for instance the tendency of the fruit from these selections to “come down on itself, and need structure from the cooperage to hold it up and expand it.” There were three barrels’ worth (two new), bottled in June. Nutmeg, ginger, and fennel pollen alluringly accent concentrated red berry fruit, while a level of carnal, umami and saliva-inducingly saline savor emerges that I haven’t witnessed in previous Le Cadeau bottlings. There is also a striking sense of vibrancy to the finish here that perfectly complements this Pinot’s satiny texture and sense of lift. Exciting though it is today, I have high hopes that this will gain further complexity and refinement over the next dozen or more years in bottle. (“The 2012 is frightening,” reports Sanders. That sounds to me like a recommendation.) ”

 

 

A reminder about our current shipping specials:

We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
-to Oregon for $17,
-to Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and to California for $25

What does this mean for you? If you live in one of the states listed above, we will ship any size order (whether it be 6 bottles or 6 cases) for the flat rate price provided for your state, as long as it is placed in a single order. Example: If you live in California, and order 3 cases of wine, your shipping cost is only $0.69 per bottle!

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.

 

 

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Faugeres Forward

Chateau de la Liquiere

 

One of Faugères’ leading lights, the Vidal family’s Château de la Liquière employs 50 to 100-year-old Carignan vines, as well as Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, grown on rocky schist soils in the steeply-sloped northwest section of the appellation. Chateau de la Liquiere is directly reflective of the Faugeres appellation, with the Vidals being one of the oldest winemaking families in the area. Jean Vidal, the father of current owner Bernard Vidal, laid the groundwork for the recognition of Faugeres as a unique wine appellation, instrumental to the creation of the Faugeres AOC in 1982.
Convinced that their wild, rocky terroir and schist soil was capable of producing distinctive wine, the Vidals were among the first growers in the region to bottle their wines for commercial sale. Neither they nor their vines became well established until the 1970’s when they undertook a break in convention with their vineyards, opting to convert to contour planting as opposed to straight lines. Terracing the hillside, following the curve of the land, was a strategic move on the part of Faugeres planters at first, as terracing decreases erosion caused by pounding rain in the area and helps to capture moisture in the soil after winds have dried the rain, and the Vidals are one of the few wineries who have maintained this tradition.
Just like the trailblazer Vidals before them, the youngest members of the Vidal family (Bertrand’s son Francois, along with his sister Sophie and her husband Laurent) are constantly looking to expand their horizons in making and marketing their wine. Château de la Liquière is part of Les Terroiristes du Midi, a group of 23 producers from the south of France who have joined forces to raise awareness of the region’s terroir and to raise the overseas profile and export sales of its members. With a constant grip on the past in terms of winemaking, and a strong move to revolutionize the perception of the Faugeres area worldwide, Francois, Sophie and Laurent , with Bertrand as an ever present guiding hand, are proving that the Faugeres region is one on the rise. Old vines, with deep roots in the schist, offering a few, precious grapes, that perfectly reflect the terroir of this unique area.

 

 

Chateau de la Liquiere – Available Now

Chateau de la Liquiere Faugeres Vieilles Vignes 2011 ($19.95) $14 special 12+ bottles available
Winery notes “The vines are deeply rooted in the shale , they offer few but precious grapes unveiling our soil. It is an intense wine , developing aromas of red fruit, black fruit , mineral notes . The tannins are fine and elegant revealing persistence. The old vines blend well with lamb, beef tenderloin and game…”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA!

 

Chateau de la Liquiere Faugeres Nos Racines 2011 ($24.95) $19 special 12+ bottles available
Robert Parker 88 points “The 2011 Faugeres Nos Racines comes from nearly 95% Carignan that was aged all in tank. A beautiful effort, with fresh plum, black cherry, ground herbs, decayed flowers and old cabinet-like nuances, it is medium to full-bodied, mouth-filling and layered, with excellent fruit. Showing some chewy, savory (if not a touch dry) tannin on the finish, enjoy it over the coming 4-5 years.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA!

 

 

 

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     Flash Sales     

 

Domaine Ostertag Riesling Vignoble d’E 2011 ($29.95) $19 flash sale special
Wine Advocate 93 points “Ostertag’s 2011 Riesling Vignoble d’E displays a remarkable combination of lushness, glycerol-richness and textural tenderness with clarity and exuberantly bright refreshment. Representing as usual the first grapes of this variety that he picked, which was however not until September 30. Luscious white peach and honeydew melon are mingled with nut oils and saliva-drawing saline-sweet, iodine-tinged lobster shell reduction, garlanded in peony, and dusted with invigoratingly biting white pepper, leading to gloriously mouthwatering and vibrantly interactive finish. It’s hard to imagine a village-level Riesling getting much more exciting than this phenomenal value. Plan to revisit it through at least 2020.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
The average price is over 25% higher at $24 / bottle

 

 

 

Giacomo Conterno Cascina Francia Barolo DOCG 2009 ($179.95) $131.90 flash sale special
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “The 2009 Barolo Cascina Francia is a stunning wine. Roberto did not make Monfortino in 2009, therefore that wine was declassified and added here. The results are truly spectacular. The wine shows the soft fullness that is characteristic of the vintage, backed by tight tannins that pull the wine together. Dark fruit, licorice, chopped herb, white truffle, tar and pressed rose form a united aromatic front. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA
The average listed price is 19% higher at $156 / bottle

 

 

 

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Staff Picks

 

Andre Neveu Sancerre Le Grand Fricambault Silex 2013 ($29.95) $24 staff pick special

“One of my favorite Sancerre bottlings every year. The intensity to this wine mellows after a little time spent open into a true expression of Silex; that chalky minerality provided by the seashell ridden soil of Sancerre comes through. This wine does not lack in fruit, leaning more towards the tropical melons than citrus, and finishes very clean and fresh. A dangerously good sipper, and the fresh seawater quality of the wine will pair wonderfully with any shellfish.”

-Afton

 

 

Mas Jullien Terrasses Du Larzac Rouge 2010 ($59.95) $39 staff pick special

“Terrasses du Larzac is a relatively new appellation, despite the area’s long history of winemaking.  It covers a small plateau in the Languedoc region.  Here, Olivier Jullien crafts his Mas Jullien AOC Rouge from small vineyard parcels scattered on the warm, high altitude area.  The wine has rich notes of inky blackcurrants, irises, and a dark minerality with soft yet present tannins.  It reminds me of California Cabernet: dark, dense, yet delightful.  I tried it alongside a Faugeres from the same vintage and found the Mas Jullien to be fuller in body and less rustic in style.  Enjoy with grilled red meats or steaks and friends.”

-Suzanne

 

 

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Pre-Arrival Highlight

Raymond Usseglio
Arriving October 17^th

Unusual as the name may be, there are several Usseglio wineries in Châteuneuf- Du- Pape, and though the relationships between the families is evident, the wines themselves are not be confused.

Francis Usseglio moved to the Rhone from Italy in 1931, finally creating his winery in 1948. Francis Usseglio had two sons, Pierre and Raymond. After their father’s retirement, Pierre took over the family estate and Raymond branched off, creating his own winery using his name in 1964.  Considered one of the top producers in the appellation, Usseglio put out consistently stellar wine every vintage. Stephane, Raymond’s son, has taken over the domaine in the last few years and, with his oenologist Xavier Vignon, is pushing to reach the full potential of the family’s holdings, their already excellent wines appearing to get even better.

Domaine Raymond Usseglio owns 18 hectares of vines in Chateauneuf du Pape. Half his vines are situated near the road in the lieu-dit “La Crau” and the other half on the hill across the road from the actual ruins of the new castle of the Pope. All the vineyards in Chateauneuf are farmed using sustainable, biodynamic farming techniques and he has the good fortune to have very old vines. The Cuvée Imperiale, 90% Grenache with 10% other Rhone varietals, is bottled from vines averaging 100-year old. The Cuvée Girard is bottled without filtration exclusively for importer Peter Weygandt and is 70% Grenache with Mourvèdre and Cinsault filling out the blend.

 

Arriving October 17th:

Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Girard 2012 ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 89-92 points “Almost identical, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Girard is a slightly tweaked blend of 85% Grenache, 5% Mourvedre, 5% Syrah and the rest Cinsault and Counoise, that’s aged in a combination of concrete, oak tanks and barrels. Voluptuous, textured and layered, with sweet black raspberry, licorice, spice and leafy herbs, it’s a medium to full-bodied, fruit-loaded effort to drink over the coming decade. Drink 2014-2024.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA!

 

Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Imperiale 2012 ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 93-95 points “A field blend of close to 95% Grenache (from 100+-year-old vines) that’s aged all in concrete, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale is one of the stars in the vintage. Offering up gorgeous Grenache character, with ripe blackberry, kirsch, licorice, old pepper and earth, it is a full-bodied, rich and voluptuously textured effort that possesses fantastic purity, loads of fruit and grippy tannin. It should be reasonably approachable on release, yet benefit from a handful of years in the cellar. Drink 2016-2027.”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA!
The average listed price is $74 / bottle

 

 

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Time to Say Goodbye

 

Araujo Cabernet Sauvignon Eisile Vineyard 2010 ($449.95) $369 special
Robert Parker 98 points “Araujo’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is a picture perfect example of the year. Vibrant, precise and beautifully chiseled, the 2010 boasts serious depth and concentration. The aromas and flavors are incredibly vivid in this textured, dazzling Cabernet Sauvignon. Hints of dark blue and black fruit, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs flesh out on the huge finish. Today the 2010 is unusually open, but it is almost certain to shut down in bottle over the next 6-12 months. The 2010 is a super-classic Eisele Cabernet Sauvignon from Araujo. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035”

 

This is the lowest listed price in the USA
Average listed is 24% higher – $457