Vinopolis Weekend – September 26th 2015

Saturday, September 26th, 2015

Jump Start Sale; Featured New Arrival – Reynvaan; Champagnes – ‘Tis the Season!; Kalin Cellars; Bardi Brunello 2010; Giovanni Corina; A Regional Perspective: Priorat

And Last But Not Least [Excepting the Pricing] A Big & Broad Closeout of High Quality California Wines

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jump Start Sale

Arriving in December

R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva Blanco, Rioja DOCa 1981 750ML ($249.95) $189 pre-arrival special
Neal Martin – Wine Advocate 95 points “The 1981 Vina Tondonia Blanco Gran Reserva has a complex bouquet of barley sugar, candle wax, dandelion and a touch of melon. The palate is medium-bodied with fine acidity, dried honey and a touch of lemongrass than lends it edge. The finish is bone dry, beautifully defined and persistent in the mouth. Drink now-2030+”
Antonio Galloni – Vinous 93 points “The richly-colored 1981 1981 Viña Tondonia Blanco Gran Reserva captures the essence of this house’s wines. It is a wine of great complexity as well as contrasts. At once mature yet seemingly ageless, full-bodied yet somehow also miraculously delicate, it displays evolved sensations of earthiness, smoke, roasted nuts and dried apricots in a more oxidative style with great persistence on the palate and enough acidity to make me think it will drink well for at least another ten or so years.”
Josh Raynolds 93 points “True gold, but remarkably youthful for its age. W ild, complex bouquet of pungent flowers, succulent herbs, orange peel, violet, vanilla, toasted nuts and baking spices. Rich, deep and beautifully concentrated, with surprising energy to the ripe pear and poached apple flavors complemented by marzipan and vanilla. This actually tightens up on the finish, showing a lingering exotic, spicy character. You could drink this right now or even hold it for a few more years.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $236

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Featured New Arrival

Reynvaan

Reynvaan Family Vineyards ‘The Contender’ Syrah – Marsanne, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “Blended with 3% Marsanne, the 2013 Syrah The Contender is still aging in 35% new French oak, some of which are larger puncheons. Showing the purity and focus of the vintage, it gives up lots of cassis, black raspberry, licorice and some meatiness to go with a full-bodied, elegant and fabulously textured feel on the palate. I’m not sure it matches the awesome 2012, but it’s no lightweight and will certainly impress on release and over the following decade.” JD

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Reynvaan Family Vineyards ‘Foothills in the Sun’ Reserve Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Wine Advocate 95 points “Incorporating less stems than the 2012, the 2013 Syrah Foothills Reserve is more masculine and powerful than the Syrah In the Hills. I offers lots of black raspberry, cracked pepper, graphite and dried violet characteristics to go with a full-bodied, seamless, concentration profile on the palate. This is a thrilling Syrah that does everything right, and while it has the fruit and texture to drink nicely now, it will continue to knock your socks off for another 10-12 years.” JD

Reynvaan Family Vineyards In The Hills Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 94 points “Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2013 Syrah In The Hills is a blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier and is only the second vintage for this cuvee, which was first made in 2012. Sporting a distinctly northern Rhone style in its peppery herb, olive tapenade, violet and spice filled bouquet, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, elegant and layered, with striking purity of fruit. Reminding me of a quality Cote Rotie, enjoy this beauty over the coming decade.” JD

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Reynvaan Family Vineyards The Unnamed Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “Tasted out of barrel, the 2013 The Unnamed Syrah, which also incorporates 10% Grenache Blanc, has a Pinot Noir vibe in its rose petal, forest floor, kirsch, blackberry and dried herb-laced bouquet. Medium to full-bodied, elegant and seamless, I’ve liked past vintages slightly more, but this is still a pretty, elegant Syrah to drink over the coming 8-10 years.” JD

Reynvaan Family Vineyards Stonessence Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($119.95) $99 special
Wine Advocate 93-96 points “Also lacking some of the weight found in the ’12, the 2013 Syrah Stonessence saw only 5% stem inclusion to go with a similar elevage as the ’12. It’s still full-bodied and concentrated, however, and offers classic raspberry, big minerality, cracked pepper and some Cornas-like iron and bloody notes. Shining for its complexity and elegance, it should merit a score in the upper end of this range if it puts on weight in bottle.” JD

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Also Available Here Now from Reynvaan

Reynvaan Grenache Blanc, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special, 5 bottles available
Reynvaan Foothills Reserve Viognier, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special, 5 bottles available
Reynvaan In The Rocks Viognier, Walla Walla Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special, 2 bottles available

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Champagnes – ‘Tis the Season

Just Arrived!

Taittinger Champagne Brut La Francaise NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “Hints of marzipan and lightly charred toast add richness without overwhelming the flavors of poached pear, lemon curd and black currant in this lively version, showing a creamy, detailed texture.” WS

R.H. Coutier Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 10 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Coutier’s NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, 100% Chardonnay from Ambonnay, remains one of the most compelling, under the radar wines in Champagne, not to mention a fabulous value. Round, textured and supple in the glass, the Blanc de Blancs shows the more textured, side of Chardonnay. These soils in Ambonnay confer an unusual level of richness and breadth. In my view, this is Coutier’s best Champagne. Disgorged May 2014. Dosage is 6 grams per liter.” AG

Pierre Peters Cuvee Rose for Albane Brut NV 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 11 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The NV Brut Rosé per Albane is drop-dead gorgeous. Perfumed, ethereal and beguiling, the Albane is both incredibly delicate and full of flavor. Sweet floral notes, red berries, mint and crushed rocks linger on the bright, crystalline finish. The long, brilliant finish leaves a lasting impression. The Albane is 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Meunier, an unusual combination.” AG

Pierre Peters Cuvee de Reserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut NV 1.5L ($179.95) $149 special, 4 magnums available
Pierre Peters Cuvee de Reserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut NV 3L ($499.95) $399 special, 1 double-magnum available
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “(mostly from 2010, but includes wines from every vintage from 1988 through 2008 except for 1999 and 2003; aged for two years on its lees and disgorged on March 12, 2013): Light gold. Highly perfumed bouquet of yellow apple, pear skin and quinine, with a smoky mineral overtone. Spicy orchard and candied citrus fruit flavors are complemented by notes of sweet butter and anise and gain weight with air. The impressively focused finish shows strong mineral cut and lingering spiciness.” JR

Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale Les Chetillons Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut 2009 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 5 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2009 Cuvée Spéciale Les Chétillons is remarkably polished and balanced throughout, with plenty of vintage 2009 radiance. Apricot pit, smoke, peach and spice overtones take shape in a striking Champagne. Although quite open and expressive today, the 2009 is also holding back a considerable amount of pure, unbridled power as well as potential. Ripe and racy to the core, yet with no excess weight, the 2009 stands out for its exceptional balance. Dosage was 4.7 grams per liter, a bit higher than normal. Péters told me he thought the drier vintage needed a little bit more sugar.” AG

Pierre Peters Cuvee L’Esprit Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut 2009 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 12 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The L’Esprit de 2009 is striking. The wine’s body, texture and breadth are all suggestive of a warm, ripe year, there is also plenty of freshness to keep things in balance. Apricot pit, smoke, dried flowers, orange peel, chamomile and honey add nuance through to the huge, resonant finish. This is a terrific showing from the 2009.” AG

Pierre Peters Champagne Also Available Here Now

Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale Les Chetillons Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut 2007 750ML ($149.95) $129 special, 27 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “What a pleasure it is to taste the 2007 Cuvée Spéciale Les Chétillons. An absolutely impeccable Champagne, the 2007 is gorgeous today. Crushed flowers, sage, almonds, lemon peel and ripe, juicy pears inform the supple, resonant finish. In 2007, the Chétillons is a model of grace and finesse. This is the first vintage Rodolphe Péters made from start to finish, and he nailed it.” AG

Here’s a preview of more of our favorites arriving Tuesday!

A. Margaine ‘Le Brut’ Premier Cru (Cuvee Traditionelle) NV 375ML ($27.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Refined, with aromatic anise, almond and raisin notes that are finely layered with berry, cassis, candied lemon peel and smoke flavors. Lip-smacking acidity keeps this fresh and lively through to the mineral-tinged finish.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Chartogne-Taillet Cuvee Sainte Anne Brut NV 375ML ($31.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 91 points “Finely knit, with tea rose and ground anise notes wafting through flavors of white raspberry, glazed apricot, pastry dough and lemon peel. Balanced and well-structured by mouthwatering acidity. Disgorged December 2012. Drink now through 2020.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

We offer 103 Champagnes in stock or arriving this fall. Browse the entire list at www.vinopoliswineshop.com.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

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

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

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

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kalin Cellars

“Wines with the Fifth Taste”

Terry and Frances Leighton aren’t simply the founders of Kalin Cellars. As they phrase it, they’re “the only two people between the grape and the bottle.” The fact that the current release of Kalin Cellars’ Pinot Noir has 16 years of age on it says a lot about the Leightons – their process is marked with stunning deliberateness – careful and self-aware without any pretense. Kalin produces roughly 700 cases per year; anything more than that is too heavy a load for the two of them.

From the beginning, the mission at Kalin has been to take classically European approaches to the New World. This includes aging whites on the lees, a pioneering effort for Californian winemaking. Grapes are hand-selected and barrel-fermented, and minimally manipulated; no fining, filtration, or addition of press wine. All wines are single-vineyard and vintage-designated.

Kalin Cellars produces a Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon in addition to a sparkling rose and, in special vintages, a late-harvest wine. We’re glad to offer a few selections at the moment, as seen below.

Winery-Cellared Wines Arriving Early October

Kalin Cellars Cuvee W Livermore Valley Chardonnay 1995 750ML ($44.95) $38 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 94 points “The 1995 vintage of Cuve´e W chardonnay from Terry and Frances Leighton is the most exotic and perfumed vintage of this bottling that I have ever had the pleasure to taste. The beautifully musky nose soars from the glass in a blend of fresh apricot,. Passion fruit, musky floral tones, orange peel, a beautiful base of soil tones and a touch of vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and vibrant, with a great core, outstanding focus and balance, excellent acidity and fine grip on the very long and complex finish. While this has plenty of secondary layers of complexity and is wide open in personality, it is also built to age and will continue to drink beautifully for at least another fifteen years. Great juice. 2015-2030+.” JG

Kalin Cellars Livermore Valley Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, Stealth Cuvée 2001 750ML ($41.95) $36 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 93 points “This is the first vintage that I have tasted from the new source of decidedly old vine sauvignon blanc that the Leightons have begun to work with in the Livermore Valley. This is from a parcel of one hundred year-old vines and the 2001 is a superb wine that is now at its apogee of peak maturity. The wine is now nicely honeyed in color and offers up a beautiful and very complex nose of tangerine, a touch of petrol, a lovely walnut-like nuttiness, citrus peel, gentle notes of beeswax and a very complex base of soil tones. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, complex and rock solid at the core, with bright acids, excellent focus and grip and a long, mature and vibrant finish. A beautiful bottle of mature sauvignon blanc that would make a great ringer in a mature white Bordeaux tasting! 2015-2030.” JG

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Kalin Cellars Available Here Now

Kalin Cellars Cuvee DD Sonoma Pinot Noir, Alexander Valley 1999 750ML ($44.95) $33 special, 10 bottles available
Winery notes “The grape source is Demostene Ranch located in the Alexander Valley. The vineyard is the oldest Pinot Noir plantation in this region, and was established with a clone which produces small berries and low yields. The soil is a mixture of clay, silt and limestone. The vineyard is dry farmed and within one mile of the Russian River. Demostene Ranch traditionally produces intense wines which pos­sess exceptional fruit definition, combined with a richly tex­tured palate and great length of finish. The particular vineyard characteristics are reminiscent of violets, wild red fruits (cassis and cherries), exotic oriental spices, sous-bois, etc.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Giovanni Corino

The beautiful commune of La Morra became home to the famed Giovanni Corino and his family in 1952; at the time, most of the wine was sold to negociants with the remainder being consumed among the family and their friends. Come the mid-eighties, the family began bottling a Barolo under their own name. Dolcetto and Barbera were to follow, with a renewed focus on pruning and vine upkeep. Some wine was still sold off in order to invest in the cellaring of wines.

The use of sulfur and copper are strictly monitored and pesticides are only used when absolutely necessary. Cow manure is used as fertilizer, only indigenous yeasts are employed, and no filtration or clarification are performed.

Come 2005, the estate was split evenly between the family’s two sons, Giuliano and Renato. Giovanni Corino, the ‘classic’ estate, fell under Giuliano’s control, though the brothers get along well and often collaborate. We’re excited to offer a new spread of Corino wines at the shop, listed below.

Giovanni Corino Dolcetto d’Alba 2011 750ML ($29.95) $14 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 88 points “Corino’s 2011 Dolcetto d’Alba is an absolutely joyous, delicious wine bursting with juicy, varietal fruit. Plums, violets, tar and exotic spices flesh out on the vinous, inviting finish.” AG

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $19.99
The average price is $23

Giovanni Corino Barbera d’Alba 2012 750ML ($24.95) $17 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Giovanni Corino Barbera d’Alba 2012 750ML ($249.95) $179 pre-arrival special (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 88 points “The 2012 Barbera d’Alba is juicy, expressive and generous. Dark red cherries, plums, spices and licorice meld together in a pretty, vinous Barbera to drink over the next few years.” AG

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Giovanni Corino Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($44.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Giovanni Corino Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($479.95) $359 pre-arrival special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “A fresh, elegant red, showing cherry, floral, loam and underbrush flavors. This is firm, yet ripe and long, with gripping tannins on the finish. Best from 2017 through 2030.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $41

Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($59.95) $47 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($299.95) $264 pre-arrival special (that’s only $/bottle!)
Case-12 Giovanni Corino Barolo Vigna Giachini, Barolo DOCG 2010 750ML ($599.95) $479 pre-arrival special (that’s only $/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 94 points “Focused, juicy and long, this red is packed with cherry, floral, tobacco and underbrush flavors. Still a bit tight now, but stays long. The sweet fruit returns on the finish. Best from 2018 through 2030.” WS

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $58

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Priorat
A Regional Perspective

Nestled in the southwest of Catalonia, the wines of the Priorat denomination have skyrocketed from relative obscurity to enjoy front-and-center attention from collectors, critics, and drinkers alike. Yields are markedly low even by Spanish standards with old vines, extreme hot and cold seasons, and nutrient-poor soils all culprit to its limited output. Quartz and slate soils dominate the dusty terrain, with the first vine planted by monks dating back to the 12th Century.

Garnacha dominates here, with the native Cariñena grape rounding out. Most Priorat wines age for at least a year in oak, with three qualifiers based on maturation periods: Crianza spends a year in oak and a year in bottle prior to release, Reserva spends a year in oak and then two years in bottle, and Gran Reserva spends two years in oak and three in bottle.

Of particular note are the wines of Alvaro Palacio, considered by many to be a torchbearer for “The New Spain.” Born to a family of Rioja winemakers, Palacio studied enology in Bordeaux and worked under Jean-Pierre Moueix at Chateau Pétrus. Though a return to Rioja seemed inevitable, Palacio was instead drawn to the relative obscurity of Priorat in the 1980’s – many vineyards sat abandoned, and the pre-Phylloxera vines lining steep hills and terraces evoked a sense of hope.

Since then, Palacio has helped the region earn high regard and respect through vintage after vintage of mature, powerful, and age-worthy wines. Below, we list some of his – and others – which deserve particular attention.

Priorat Wines Available Here Now

Alvaro Palacios Camins del Priorat, Priorat DOCa 2014 750ML ($21.95) $18 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “Bottled one week before my tasting in February 2015, the entry-level 2014 Camins del Priorat is the only wine that contains French grapes and is more or less 50% Garnacha, 15% Cariñena, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah and 5% Merlot. The grapes are sourced from vineyards in many different villages, fermented in stainless steel, oak and cement vats with indigenous yeasts and aged in barriques and oak vats for six months. This ultra young, jovial wine is a commercial success in the thirsty local restaurant market. It is really affordable too, considering that it bears the signature of Álvaro Palacios. It is bottled at different phases, released already because 2012 and 2013 were short vintages, and this lot is the first bottling with around four months in barrel; the last lot is kept in large oak and cement vats so all lots are more or less four months in barrels. Ripe, juicy and somewhat balsamic, it shows a Priorat character that is highly drinkable with fine tannins and pungent flavors. It is a wine to enjoy at the table. I missed the 2013 because this wine sells like hot cakes. Very good wine at a very good price.” LG

Alvaro Palacios Finca Dofi, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 12 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “(100% garnacha): Brilliant ruby. Potent red berry liqueur and floral scents are complemented by deeper notes of licorice, cola and licorice, with a mineral nuance adding lift and focus. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated but lively spice-tinged raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a touch of candied flowers. Silky tannins add shape to the extremely long, fruit-driven finish, which leaves a sexy spicecake note behind. In the context of elite Priorat wines this is a serious value.” ST

This is 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
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!)
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

Alvaro Palacios ‘Les Terrasses’ Velles Vinyes, Priorat DOCa 2013 750ML ($44.95) $31.90 special, 12 bottles available
Case-12 Alvaro Palacios ‘Les Terrasses’ Velles Vinyes, Priorat DOCa 2013 750ML ($479.95) $333 special, 1 case available (that’s only $27.75/bottle!)
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2013 Les Terrasses Velles Vinyes, from a rainy year and a late harvest that resulted in perfect ripeness and low yields, is a blend of 55% Garnacha and 45% Cariñena. You might find labels and literature referring Cariñena to as Samsó, something that is wrong and creates confusion since Samsó is the Catalan name for Cinsault. The grapes are sourced from different villages (Gratallops, La Vilella Baixa, Bellmunt, El Lloar, El Molar, Porrera, Scala Dei, Torroja and Poboleda) all of them grown on schist llicorella soils, fermented in a combination of oak and cement vats with natural yeasts and matured in barrique for one year. It has a meaty nose with aromas that transported me to the Northern Rhône, showing smoky bacon intermixed with violets and really well-integrated oak resulting in a very fine and elegant impression. It seems more refined than other vintages of Les Terrasses, lighter and more elegant with none of the volatility or oak of yesteryear. It is really fine, polished and is without edges. Somehow within the Atlantic vintage you can see the Mediterranean character. Awesome Terrasses and good value for Priorat. 95,500 bottles produced.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Bodegas La Cartuja, Priorat DOCa 2011 750ML ($21.95) $17 special, 20 bottles available
Case-12 Bodegas La Cartuja, Priorat DOCa 2013 750ML ($219.95) $179 special, 1 case available (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 90 points “(70% garnacha and 30% carinena; aged for six months in French oak): Bright violet color. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes dark berries and fresh flowers, with a spicy nuance gaining strength with air. Juicy and energetic on the palate, showing a silky texture and juicy blackberry and cassis flavors. The smooth, smoky finish shows very good clarity and a whisper of fine-grained tannins.”

Cellar Pasanau Ceps Nous, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($27.95) $18 special, 30 bottles available
Importer note “The Pasanaus are perennial growers in La Morera, the highest municipality of Priorat, with vineyards at over 2,400 feet elevation abutting the sheer rock wall of the Sierra de Montsant. Gravelly scree eroded from the cliffs covers the underlying llicorella slate, together with the elevation creating a less Mediterranean microclimate relative to the region as a whole.”

Rotllan Torra Crianza, Priorat DOCa 2010 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 1 bottle available
Wine Spectator 90 points “Aromatic, with floral, spice and smoke notes, this expressive red follows through with kirsch, vanilla and mountain herb flavors that mingle in the firm texture. Balsamic accents round out the package. Drink now through 2020.” WS

Rotllan Torra Reserva, Priorat DOCa2009 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 2 bottles available
Winery note “[Translated] Grapes were hand-harvested as each plot reached optimum ripeness. The nose presents the best of new oak: toast and spicy notes, with an undernote of ripe raspberries and blueberries. As the highly aromatic wine evolves in the glass, it gradually shows spicy aromas, notes of ripe red fruit and some notes of licorice. The palate has moderate acidity with a round, well-structured mouthfeel and sweet, velvety tannins giving smoothness and an elegant and long finish. Very pleasant in the mouth, soothing, silky, very persistent, with long aftertaste that leaves the palate full of a complex array of aromas that invite drinking. A wine of extraordinary quality. A harmony of textures, elegant, black cherry, spice and toasty oak.”

Clos i Terrasses Clos Erasmus, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($219.95) $169 special, 18 bottles available
Wine Advocate 98 points “After no 2011 was produced, the 2012 Clos Erasmus comes with renewed energy, a much fresher approach and a more transparent wine while keeping the slate typicity of Gratallops even in a tiny-yielding vintage. Part of the wine aged in 700-liter clay amphorae and the rest in Burgundy barrels that added a spicy patina to the nose, yet very much respected the wet slate character of the vintage. Contrary to previous vintages, the core of fruit is red rather than black; the 2013 that I tasted (not in bottle) followed pretty much this same direction. The palate shows power, elegance and a special mineral savoriness akin to licking stones. There is more Garnacha in the blend (there’s only 15% Syrah) which gives a Mediterranean juiciness. A new life for Erasmus, very much recognizable as Priorat, Gratallops and Erasmus, but with a more elegant haircut. Only 2,000 bottles produced.” WA

Clos i Terrasses Clos Erasmus ‘Laurel’, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 31 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2012 Laurel is a blend of 70% Garnacha, 20% Syrah and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine had a different élevage as it matured in a combination of used barriques, 20-hectoliter oak vats, cement vats and 700-liter amphorae. This is a very savory vintage of Laurel with pungent, almost saline flavors. The wet slate and black fruit that I link to Gratallops are present but the wine is much fresher than anticipated for a warm and especially dry vintage in a hot village like Gratallops. There is a balsamic twist in the background, but the place comes through stronger than grapes or process. I also tasted the 2013 a couple of weeks before bottling and it showed even better than the already great 2012. 9,000 bottles produced.” WA
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 93 points “(75% garnacha, 20% syrah and 5% cabernet sauvignon; aged in a combination of wooden upright vats and two- to four-year-old French oak barrels): Opaque ruby. Powerful smoke- and mineral-accented black and blue fruit aromas show very good clarity and pick up suave floral and spicecake elements with air. Fleshy and broad in the mouth, offering ripe blackcurrant and mulberry flavors sharpened by a peppery flourish. The floral note comes back strong on the finish, which clings with excellent tenacity and youthfully chewy tannins. In a broader-shouldered style than its Clos Erasmus sibling; this one should age well but offers plenty of immediate appeal as well. In the context of high-end Priorats there’s remarkable value here.” JR

Familia Nin-Ortiz ‘Nit de Nin’, Priorat DOCa2012 750ML ($109.95) $89 special, 16 bottles available
Wine Advocate 97 points “If the Planetes was impressive, wait for the 2012 Nit de Nin, which is a similar wine but at two levels of intensity, depth and elegance above. It’s also a single-vineyard wine from a very old plot in Porrera in the Mas d’en Caçador vineyard at some 500 meters altitude on an impressive slope planted with very old vines on slate soils. It’s approximately 60% Garnacha Peluda (which is a different strain producing lighter-colored wines with higher acidity than the regular Garnacha) and the rest Cariñena. The wine is pure, perfumed, intoxicating even, floral and spicy, intense and captivating. The palate is highly refined, with pure flavors, great freshness, completely focused, nothing blurry at all in there, generous but fine at the same time. It ends very tasty, with a saline minerality. I had the chance to visit the vineyard on my last night in Priorat, and when you see it you understand that it HAS to produce great wine. Simply superb. Drink or keep. 4,000 bottles were filled in March 2014.” WA

Familia Nin-Ortiz ‘Planetes de Nin’, Priorat DOCa 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 20 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “I was thoroughly impressed by the 2012 Planetes de Nin, a bright ruby-colored, fragrant Garnacha-based red with some 30% Cariñena from the Planetes vineyard in Porrera. It has a beautiful floral nose of violets and lilies, with showy aromas of blood orange peel, wild berries and oriental spices in a Vosne-Romanée way, very Burgundian overall and truly captivating. The palate is ultra-sleek, silky with very refined tannins and a subtle minerality that adds to the freshness and makes the wine very focused and precise. This is so different from previous vintages, so much more elegant and focused, pure and elegant. This should age in bottle nicely, but it will be very difficult to resist. And it’s a very good value. 9,000 bottles.” WA

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

NEW Close Out Deals!

Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley 2010 750ML ($27.95) $16 special, 35 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!

Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Far Coast Vineyards Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2012 750ML ($79.95) $66 special, 30 bottles available
Robert Parker 95-97 points “The 2012 Chardonnay Far Coast Vineyard comes from a site located on a mountain ridge north of Fort Ross. Like its siblings, it was fermented with indigenous yeasts, and bottled unfined and unfiltered after spending 15 months in one-third new oak. It’s alcohol is among the lowest at 14.1%. A blockbuster Chardonnay, it boasts intense aromas of mangoes, Mandarin oranges, pineapples and wet rocks along with noticeable minerality, full body, and stunning purity as well as symmetry. This is another great Chardonnay from proprietor Don Hartford and his winemaking team. Enjoy it over the next 5-7 years.” RP

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!

And these, Arriving Tuesday, September 29th:

Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Bear Point Chardonnay, Alexander Valley 2012 750ML ($69.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Robert Parker 95 points “From the lowest elevation (1,000 feet) vineyard, the 2012 Chardonnay Bear Point reveals lots of orange and apricot marmalade, pineapple and honeysuckle notes along with wonderful acidity and a fresh, lively style. Enjoy it over the next 5-7 years.” RP

Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Chardonnay, Alexander Valley 2013 750ML ($39.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Chardonnay, Alexander Valley 2013 750ML ($419.95) $299 pre-arrival special (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Robert Parker 92-94 points “The 2013 Chardonnay Estate Vineyards reveals lots of tropical fruit, especially tangerine oil. Situated high on Alexander Mountain, Stonestreet has put together their finest portfolio of wines since I have been tasting them. Winemaker Lisa Valtenberg appears to have reduced the overt oakiness displayed by many wines in the past. At the same time, she has increased their nuances, complexity and textural richness. The numerous Chardonnay vineyards are planted at 800 to as high as 1,800 feet (in the case of the Gravel Bench, Upper Barn and Broken Road vineyards). All are 100% Chardonnays largely made from the Old Wente clone with a small percentage of the Hyde clone, and are fermented with indigenous yeasts. Almost all of them spend 10-11 months in various percentages of new French oak, ranging from a low of 44% (the Estate Chardonnay) to a high of 100% (the Gravel Bench Chardonnay. The differences between the various cuvées are very subtle as they are all relatively full-bodied, rich, and aromatic with natural textures. As the scores attest, they are far more alike than dissimilar.” RP

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Case-12 Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2010 750ML ($379.95) $299 pre-arrival special (that’s only $24.92/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “A lovely Cabernet, ripe and delicious, yet complex enough to hold your interest. It’s just beginning its journey in the bottle. Very dark in color, with hard tannins, it has an immense core of blackberries and cherries. Give it at least 6-8 years, but it could still be rocking in 2022.” WE

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Rockfall Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2010 750ML ($99.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Rockfall Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2010 750ML ($479.95) $379 pre-arrival special (that’s only $63.17/ bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “This is an awesome Cabernet, that’s so packed with blackberries and cassis, it blows your mind. The richness is superbly balanced by fine acidity and sweet, complex tannins that rein everything into a focused structure. Feels velvety, refined and ageable. Hold until 2018 and drink it for an additional decade or beyond.” WE

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $88

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Thank you for reading!