In This Newsletter:
Fevre:
The Frontrunner of Chablis
Cristom:
The Champion of Eola-Amity Hills
New Grapelive Review
For G.D. Vajra’s Coste di Rose
Sekt-y Time With Von Winning
Just Paroled:
The Prisoner Wine Company & Robert Mondavi just arrived
San Simeon:
Rombauer Richness at Proletariat Pricing!
Rose Feature:
Mosel Field Blend and Single-village Beaujolais
VinopolPick Face-Off
Always Sunny with Bastide Blanche Vs Tempier
JB Becker:
The Rheingau’s Baron of Bone-Dry Riesling
Collector’s Corner:
Rare: The Crown Jewel of Piper-Heidsieck
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Fevre:
The Frontrunner of Chablis
Have you ever heard the saying “There is Chardonnay, and then there is Chablis”? There are only a handful of growing regions in the world that are exclusively planted to a single varietal, and Chablis delivers the most compelling argument for why that’s the case. With a cooler growing season than her sisters in the Côte-d’Or, unique soil composition and a plethora of exceptional sites, Chablis is an essential item for anyone’s cellar. With a tremendous amount of variance in terms of flavor expression, the best Chablis are characterized by their high acids, pervasive minerality and a fruit profile that tends to skew towards citrus and pomme fruit. As they age, the mineral and tertiary characters of the wines blossom as the acids polymerize and settle down with the best examples having decades of potential bottle age.
Don’t have a favorite Premier or Grand Cru expression? Look no further than William Fevre’s expansive portfolio. With holdings in nearly every Cru of mention, and biodynamically farmed no less; there’s no better producer to explore Chablis with. Part of the Domaine Henriot brand which includes the legendary Oregon pinot house Beaux Freres and the champagnois that head the company, the domaine’s goal is to “Express the subtlety of each site”. In addition to practicing biodynamics vinification is done as gently as possible with gravity feeding, short pressing times and minimal oak usage across the entire portfolio.
Highlights In Stock Now from William Fevre:
Perfumed, multispectral and transcendent. A mirage of taste that beguiles and disappears.
William Fevre Beauroy Chablis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2017 Chablis Beauroy 1er Cru is beautifully lifted and nuanced. Floral and citrus notes give the Beauroy striking lift as well as nuance. Readers will find a gracious, super-expressive Chablis that drinks well now and also has the potential to develop nicely in bottle.”
Burghound 88-91 points “There is a back wisp of exoticism to the ripe and fresh aromas of white orchard fruit, petrol and discreet honeysuckle nuances. The exceptionally rich flavors possess reasonably good verve if only average concentration though they offer good persistence on the citrusy, clean and balanced finale.”
Don’t have a favorite Premier or Grand Cru expression? Look no further than William Fevre’s expansive portfolio. With holdings in nearly every Cru of mention, and biodynamically farmed no less; there’s no better producer to explore Chablis with. Part of the Domaine Henriot brand which includes the legendary Oregon pinot house Beaux Freres and the champagnois that head the company, the domaine’s goal is to “Express the subtlety of each site”. In addition to practicing biodynamics vinification is done as gently as possible with gravity feeding, short pressing times and minimal oak usage across the entire portfolio.
Highlights In Stock Now from William Fevre:
Perfumed, multispectral and transcendent. A mirage of taste that beguiles and disappears.
William Fevre Beauroy Chablis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2017 Chablis Beauroy 1er Cru is beautifully lifted and nuanced. Floral and citrus notes give the Beauroy striking lift as well as nuance. Readers will find a gracious, super-expressive Chablis that drinks well now and also has the potential to develop nicely in bottle.”
Burghound 88-91 points “There is a back wisp of exoticism to the ripe and fresh aromas of white orchard fruit, petrol and discreet honeysuckle nuances. The exceptionally rich flavors possess reasonably good verve if only average concentration though they offer good persistence on the citrusy, clean and balanced finale.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Intensely chalky with an entire bouquet of flowers and botanicals for flavors, all misted in lemon oil. Very young in the bottle at this juncture, with potential that boggles the imagination.
William Fevre Bougros Chablis Grand Cru 2017 750ML ($99.95) $89 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2017 Chablis Bougros Grand Cru is a dense, phenolic and powerful wine that captures the tiny yields of the vintage. Lemon confit, pear, white flowers, mint and lightly honeyed notes explode from the glass in a Chablis endowed with tremendous character as well as persistence. This is an especially ample, full-bodied edition of this wine.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “I was unduly conservative with my assessment of Fèvre’s 2017 Chablis Grand Cru Bougros, as this bottle was showing very well indeed, unfurling in the glass with aromas of white flowers, fresh peach, Meyer lemon and crushed chalk. It’s full-bodied, deep and fleshy, with excellent concentration, racy acids and chalky structuring extract, concluding with a precise finish. While this Bougros is still quite demonstrative, it is showing more complexity and tension after another six months in bottle and is well worth seeking out.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Entry level only in price, this offers a fantastic look into the house style of Fevre.
William Fevre Chablis Burgundy 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Burghound 88-90 points “A ripe and fresh nose offers up notes of iodine, oyster shell, mineral reduction, pear and plenty of citrus influence. There is fine density to the concentrated and sappy flavors that possess fine volume while delivering very good length and solid depth. Good stuff and worth a look.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
So favored by the French aristocracy that it was given the symbol of the elite, the Lily or Lys as it’s called in French. Elegance incarnate.
William Fevre Les Lys Chablis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 16 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2017 Chablis Les Lys 1er Cru is a dense, potent wine that will appeal most to readers who enjoy concentrated whites. Although not exactly subtle, the 2017 possesses superb depth and creaminess. Dried herbs, chamomile, crushed flowers and dried pear notes add character. There is no shortage of intensity, that much is clear. In this tasting, the 2017 comes across as a bit bombastic.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Fresh and Powerful, with the richness being tempered by incredibly linear acid.
William Fevre Montmains Chablis Premier Cru 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2017 Chablis Montmains 1er Cru is a dense, powerful wine that very much shows the low yields of the vintage in its sheer richness. Citrus, floral and savory notes are front and center, but more than anything else, the 2017 stands out for its concentration, power and persistence. This is impressive.”
William Fevre Vaudesir Chablis Grand Cru 2017 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2017 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru is another wine that captures the magic of this vintage. Sweet floral notes, ginger and citrus come together in this exotic, aromatic Chablis. Deep and rich on the palate, with superb textural resonance and fabulous balance, the Vaudésir is a wine of pure and total class. Hints of orchard fruit, mint and hard candy add an exotic flair.”
Be sure to check out our full section of Chablis online, we carry over 45!
Cristom:
The Champion of Eola-Amity Hills
Cristom is one of the hallowed names in Oregon. They’ve been a top name since their inception in 1993 and make reference point wines from their beautiful estate vineyards in the Eola-Amity Hills. Much of the credit for their success goes to their vineyards—located just below Bethel Heights and Temperance Hill, truly Cristom is one of the Grand Cru sites of Oregon. The rest of the credit goes to Steve Doerner, their winemaker since the beginning, who made a name for Calera in 1980s California before moving to Oregon and becoming a local legend.
These are wines that have powerful personalities allied to a Burgundian sense of proportion and savor. Doerner loves to use a lot of whole clusters in fermentations and so the wines always have a grip and earthiness that grounds their deep fruit and rich textures. 2019 is being described as a “Return to normal” with minimal heat waves, dry days and breezy nights. This is also this third year in the estate’s process of biodynamic conversion, making the 2019 Cristom’s even more Burgundian inspired!
We were able to secure a small supply of their Mt. Jefferson Cuvee, generally considered to be their top offering. In previous years it has been one of the highest rated from critics, and remains one of the most ageworthy in the state. The 375ML bottles are great for “Checking in on the vintage” as the smaller formats will mature faster than the standard bottles. These could easily become some of the most collectible wines in the state in the coming years, not unlike the famous 2011 and 2013 vintages.
Arriving Friday, August 27th:
Cristom ‘Mt. Jefferson Cuvee’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 750ML ($44.95) $36 pre-arrival special
Cristom ‘Mt. Jefferson Cuvee’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2019 375ML ($24.95) $19 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “This is very seductive on the nose with ripe strawberry, spice, flowers and hints of cloves. Full-bodied, but very reserved and tight with chewy, polished tannins and a long, long finish. Racy and structured.”
In stock now by Cristom:
Cristom ‘Louise Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($79.95) $49 special, 10 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “This cuvée has a very energetic and intense feel with a wealth of fresh and attractive red cherries and raspberries, plenty of florals and subtle herbal, forest-wood and light-chocolate notes. There’s a very keenly articulated feel to the palate with a plush, very fleshy and assertively long, detailed finish. Deep fruit presence here. Drink across the next decade.”
Josh Raynolds 93 points “Vivid red. Expansive aromas of ripe red berries, candied flowers and baking spices, with a smoky mineral topnote that gains strength as the wine opens up. Coats the palate with appealing sweet raspberry and cherry liqueur flavors that tighten up and become spicier on the back half. Shows excellent clarity and floral lift on an impressively long finish that’s shaped by fine-grained, even tannins.”
Cristom ‘Marjorie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Cristom ‘Marjorie Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($479.95) $339 special (That’s $56.55 per bottle!)
Josh Raynolds 95 points “Translucent red. A wild, highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, exotic spices and candied flowers, with smoky mineral and incense notes that acquire strength as this youthful wine gains its footing. Stains the palate with vibrant raspberry, bitter cherry, star anise and rose pastille flavors that show a compelling blend of depth and litheness. Fine-grained tannins build slowly on a strikingly long, finely etched finish that features baking spice, floral and subtle earth notes.”
James Suckling 95 points “An earthy thread here with more savory, herbal and gently spicy notes, as well as graphite. Latent red cherries, too. The palate has a very sleek and succulent feel with evenly cast, sturdy tannins that harness great length and depth. Powerful yet measured and all about the earth. Try from 2023.”
Erin Brooks – Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Pinot Noir Marjorie Vineyard was made with 51% whole clusters and aged 18 months in 75% new French oak. Medium ruby, it has a very pretty nose: nuances of crushed stone, Campari, earth and blood orange mingle over a core of red and black cherries, rhubarb and cranberry. The medium-bodied palate has lovely, nuanced, amaro-laced flavor layers with a softly chalky frame and seamless freshness, finishing long and perfumed. 384 cases produced.”
New Grapelive Review
For G.D. Vajra’s Coste di Rose
G.D. Vajra ‘Coste di Rose’ Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 23 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 96 points “This 2016 is wonderfully textural, rich and silken as well as structured to age with a fabulous depth of flavors, showcasing the nature of place and vintage, a year that I am loving more and more each time I try it, especially when it is made by Giuseppe Vajra, who’s wines always impress… The Coste di Rose is a small Cru in Comune di Barolo that it is located on a high elevation steep slope that arises from Bosco della Fava and descends swiftly towards the border with Monforte d’Alba. As the winery notes, [it is] set on unique deep sandy soils. The 2016 has fantastic layering and a gorgeous mouth feel showing classic black cherries, damson plum, framboise, reduced orange along with a sprig of mint, tarry black licorice, cedar wood notes and a heighten rose petal perfume. This special site includes a five-meter tall sand dune, which has earned the Coste di Rose the nickname “The Beach” and this vineyard is its own distinct terroir that delivers extraordinary fruit density, but with impeccable balance and purity…”
Also In Stock Now from G.D. Vajra:
G.D. Vajra Freisa ‘Kye’ Langhe Rosso Piedmont 2015 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 32 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 92+ points “The 2015 Langhe Freisa Kyé is incredibly finessed. Once huge and bombastic, the Kyé has developed into a much more refined wine in recent vintages. The 2015 Kyé is dark and mysterious, not to mention quite closed in on itself. I won’t be surprised if there is more to this wine. Time will tell.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Arriving ETA September:
G.D. Vajra ‘Coste di Rose’ Barolo DOCG 2017 750ML ($69.95) $56.50 pre-arrival special
Kerin O’keefe-Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Wild berry, menthol and tilled earth aromas mingle with whiffs of dark spice. Linear and savory, the lithe palate is already immediate, featuring juicy raspberry, red cherry, crushed mint and star anise accompanied by taut, polished tannins. Tangy acidity keeps it fresh and bright.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “With fruit from higher-elevation vineyards in the village of Barolo, the 2017 Barolo Coste di Rose is quite elegantly downplayed and fragile. The wine reveals wild berry, cassis and lots of blue flower or lilac. A pretty mineral note recalls crushed limestone and is present through the long and polished mouthfeel. This wine overperforms, considering the challenges of this vintage that saw extreme weather, from spring frost to scorching summer temperatures. These vineyard sites performed better than most. Some 4,800 bottles were released.”
Jeb Dunnuck 94 points “The 2017 Barolo Coste di Rose has bright aromatics of candied raspberry, apricot, anise, and dusty earth. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine tannins and notes of dried wild strawberry, fresh roses, and mineral-rich earth. This wine is open and inviting, while maintaining freshness and drive. Drink 2024-2040.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Sekt-y Time With Von Winning
Grant:
German Riesling is probably the favorite wine category amongst the staff here at Vinopolis, and for good reason. You’d be hard pressed to find so many styles of wine in one place, with sparkling being the latest to make waves. Sekt, as it’s called in Germany, has been around for a while, but most examples have historically been panned internationally for being too acidic (or worse, under ripe).
That’s all changing with the climate with Germany experiencing some of the best yields and growing seasons ever recorded. Never one to settle for a standard portfolio, Von Winning makes a dizzying assortment of wines ranging from the more typical Riesling and Pinot Noir to Sauvignon Blanc and a sparkling Riesling. Fermented in tank to preserve the fruitiness, with secondary fermentation in bottle this is a sparkling wine with endless potential. In addition to a fruit salad of red apples, white peach and Meyer lemon there’s a beautiful minerality that is reminiscent of slate and baking spice. The minimal sugar input is noticeable as the acid provides a clean and persistent finish, making this food friendly but can still be enjoyed by itself. Built for any occasion, budget or activity.
Von Winning Riesling Sekt Extra Brut Pfalz, Deidesheim NV 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 92 points “I’m lucky to have enjoyed this exciting Riesling Sparkler on a few occasions now. I love its intensity, crisp detail and briskly dry profile that make it celebratory but sublime with meals especially first courses or as an aperitif to whet the palate. German bubbles are incredible and this one is a classy example at a reasonable price, not to be outdone by Prosecco, the Cremants of Alsace, the Loire and Burgundy, and Champagne even, these modern Sekt(s) are stylish, elegant and full of personality. This one [is] in the mold of one of my favorite small Champagne house, Agrapart, with its cool invigorating mineral tones and extreme dry flavors. Von Winning is one of Germany’s top wineries, based in the chalky sandstone soiled Pfalz region, with an exceptional range of wines, especially their absolutely awesome series of Grosses Gewachs (Grand Cru) Rieslings, though there is excellence throughout the collection here and as I have noted in my prior reviews, Von Winning does one of the finest Sauvignon Blanc(s) in the world, too. The Extra Brut Riesling Sekt is vibrant and steely from the start with a mix of zesty citrus and peachy fruits, a hint of wet stones, leesy/yeasty notes and a faint floral element all of which folds together nicely and vigorously on the energy driven light to medium bodied palate that gains texture with air, but stays firmly taut with an expressive, subtly luxurious small bubbled mousse…”
Don’t miss our full selection of still Rieslings & Sauvignon Blancs from this staff favorite winery!
German Riesling is probably the favorite wine category amongst the staff here at Vinopolis, and for good reason. You’d be hard pressed to find so many styles of wine in one place, with sparkling being the latest to make waves. Sekt, as it’s called in Germany, has been around for a while, but most examples have historically been panned internationally for being too acidic (or worse, under ripe).
That’s all changing with the climate with Germany experiencing some of the best yields and growing seasons ever recorded. Never one to settle for a standard portfolio, Von Winning makes a dizzying assortment of wines ranging from the more typical Riesling and Pinot Noir to Sauvignon Blanc and a sparkling Riesling. Fermented in tank to preserve the fruitiness, with secondary fermentation in bottle this is a sparkling wine with endless potential. In addition to a fruit salad of red apples, white peach and Meyer lemon there’s a beautiful minerality that is reminiscent of slate and baking spice. The minimal sugar input is noticeable as the acid provides a clean and persistent finish, making this food friendly but can still be enjoyed by itself. Built for any occasion, budget or activity.
Von Winning Riesling Sekt Extra Brut Pfalz, Deidesheim NV 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 92 points “I’m lucky to have enjoyed this exciting Riesling Sparkler on a few occasions now. I love its intensity, crisp detail and briskly dry profile that make it celebratory but sublime with meals especially first courses or as an aperitif to whet the palate. German bubbles are incredible and this one is a classy example at a reasonable price, not to be outdone by Prosecco, the Cremants of Alsace, the Loire and Burgundy, and Champagne even, these modern Sekt(s) are stylish, elegant and full of personality. This one [is] in the mold of one of my favorite small Champagne house, Agrapart, with its cool invigorating mineral tones and extreme dry flavors. Von Winning is one of Germany’s top wineries, based in the chalky sandstone soiled Pfalz region, with an exceptional range of wines, especially their absolutely awesome series of Grosses Gewachs (Grand Cru) Rieslings, though there is excellence throughout the collection here and as I have noted in my prior reviews, Von Winning does one of the finest Sauvignon Blanc(s) in the world, too. The Extra Brut Riesling Sekt is vibrant and steely from the start with a mix of zesty citrus and peachy fruits, a hint of wet stones, leesy/yeasty notes and a faint floral element all of which folds together nicely and vigorously on the energy driven light to medium bodied palate that gains texture with air, but stays firmly taut with an expressive, subtly luxurious small bubbled mousse…”
Don’t miss our full selection of still Rieslings & Sauvignon Blancs from this staff favorite winery!
Just Paroled:
The Prisoner Wine Company & Robert Mondavi
You’d be hard pressed to find two houses that are more synonymous with Napa Valley wine than the Prisoner Wine Company and Robert Mondavi. Representing both faces of the coin as it were, these are exemplary illustrations for the “New” and “Old” school of Napa’s winemaking. When tasting between the two producers there are as many differences as there are similarities, making this a compelling look into Napa’s history and practices.
Mondavi is credited with being one of the first premium grower-producers in the entire valley; with their To Kalon vineyard being one of the most awarded in the world even by Bordeaux standards. After expanding their estate holdings, Mondavi became one of the first in the Valley to convert to sustainable growing practices across their portfolio. Comprised of several vineyard sources throughout Napa, the Cabernet and Chardonnay are textbook examples of “The Napa Style” with luscious fruit character, French oak cooperage, and multidimensional finishes.
The Cabernet delivers purple and black fruit in spades with a whole spectrum of Italian plum, Marionberry compote and blackcurrants. The richness of fruit is tempered by spice, vanilla and mineral tannins that are evident but without hard edges. Similar in style is the Chardonnay that features a pineapple, banana and baked honeycrisp fruit profile that is also restrained by a creamy, French oak influence.
In comparison the Prisoner wine company is credited with starting the “Red Blend Revolution” in the United States, which created the category we now know today. Their flagship bottling “The Prisoner” is comprised of old vine Zinfandel with a smattering of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Charbano. Much like the Mondavi examples, the vineyards that are used for this bottling are found throughout Napa Valley, offering a snapshot of the entire region’s terroir. Beyond their flagship blend, we also were able to secure some of their Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend that’s meant to be even denser than the Prisoner. This was a one-time deal we secured, so stocks up while you can!
Newly Arrived:
The Prisoner Wine Co. ‘The Prisoner’ Napa Valley 2019 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
The Prisoner Wine Co. Cabernet Sauvignon California 2018 750ML ($59.95) $39 special, 24 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 91 points “Ripe and fresh, with a lovely beam of cassis and cherry puree flavors streaming along, flanked by subtle bergamot, floral and anise notes. There’s a chocolaty hint on the finish, but the overall impression is pure.
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “The base 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley sports a deep purple hue as well as classic Napa Valley Cabernet notes of ripe black and blue fruits, coffee beans, tobacco, and sappy green herbs. Coming from vineyards spread throughout the valley, it shows the purity, focus, and precision of this great vintage and is full-bodied, with a rounded, supple, texture, plenty of tannins, and outstanding length. I suspect it will be a terrific value.”
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a pleasant, easygoing Cabernet to drink now and over the next handful of years, while the fruit remains vibrant. Ripe dark cherry, plum, spice, tobacco and licorice all open effortlessly. “
San Simeon:
Rombauer Richness at Proletariat Pricing!
Rombauer Richness at Proletariat Pricing!
California is famous around the world for her Chardonnay with an entire ecosystem of different styles, growing regions and practices. After stunning the world in the 1976 Judgement of Paris, California chardonnay became comparable to White Burgundy and has been a measuring rod ever since. In the ensuing decades since this upset California has taken their style to new heights, and is known around the world for a rich, plush and riper style.
One of the most famous producers of this style is Rombauer, who has mastered the balancing act between richness and verve. Rombauer is not without competition however, with our latest arrival from San Simeon being even richer in body and texture. Sourced from two vineyards within Monterey, you get a similar profile as Rombauer with a slightly creamier texture and pervasive grilled pineapple note in the body (At only a fraction of the cost, however).
San Simeon Monterey Estate Chardonnay, California 2017 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 San Simeon Chardonnay Estate Rsv 2017 ($239.95) $128 special (that’s only $10.67/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “Rich and hedonistic, this is filled with plush white fruit flavors, offering a pillowy texture. Luscious butteriness extends into the finish, with roasted pineapple notes. Drink now through 2023.”
One of the most famous producers of this style is Rombauer, who has mastered the balancing act between richness and verve. Rombauer is not without competition however, with our latest arrival from San Simeon being even richer in body and texture. Sourced from two vineyards within Monterey, you get a similar profile as Rombauer with a slightly creamier texture and pervasive grilled pineapple note in the body (At only a fraction of the cost, however).
San Simeon Monterey Estate Chardonnay, California 2017 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 San Simeon Chardonnay Estate Rsv 2017 ($239.95) $128 special (that’s only $10.67/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 90 points “Rich and hedonistic, this is filled with plush white fruit flavors, offering a pillowy texture. Luscious butteriness extends into the finish, with roasted pineapple notes. Drink now through 2023.”
This is the lowest price in the USA Today!
Rose Feature:
Mosel Field Blend and Single Village Beaujolais
Looking for a rose that combines a refreshing spectrum of fruit with mineral structure and a nuanced finish? Entirely sourced from estate grown Gamay Noir in the village of Saint-Vérand, the site is unique amongst others in the region for its decomposed granite soils, which sharply contrast with the clay limestone usually found elsewhere in the area.
This results in fuller structure, expressive aromatics and roundness on the finish that makes it perfectly quaffable. Expect a full spectrum of summer strawberry, pawpaw, mangostein and fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice with a slightly acerbic finish redolent of anise flower and Benihomare tea. Food friendly but with enough character to be had alone.
Pierre-Marie Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Les Griottes Rose Beaujolais 2020 750ML ($19.95) $16.60 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Gamay. Sustainable. Quartz & clay. Tasting note: Bright watermelon, strawberry and citrus rind with a touch of rosemary.”
One of the most beloved producers amongst the staff, Stein makes incredible wines from abandoned vineyards in the Mosel river valley. Among these sites, Dr. Stein discovered one of the oldest plantings of Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the entire valley and currently uses them as the backbone for his Rose program. These are fascinating examples of terroir featuring the ethereal body, slatey minerality and exceptionally long finish of a classic Mosel wine re-interpreted through reds. If that’s not enough there’s even a sparkling version! Fermented in tank so as not to alter the flavors with autolysis, it’s almost too drinkable with notes of cherry juice, fresh cranberries, Nasturtium, and rose water. There’s a definite Mosel character on the finish that’s reminiscent of wet river rock and mist, which makes it wholly unique in the literal sea of options on the market.
In Stock now:
Wein-Erbhof Stein Secco Sparkling Rose Mosel 2020 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer note “Steep slate soils. Second fermentation in tank. Pinot Noir with approximately 20% Cabernet and Merlot, élevage all stainless.” Sparkling wine.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
VinopolPick Face-Off
Always Sunny with Bastide Blanche Vs Tempier
Bandol Rose has taken the world by storm and for good reason, it’s delicious! Previously a village that made famously dense reds from Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault; the rose revolution has now commandeered the lion’s share of production. There is an entire spectrum of styles made under the Bandol Rose Umbrella with largely two major schools of thought at play. Some producers choose a rich and extracted style that features more fruit with the opposing style being a leaner expression and emphasizing the mineral/botanical character you see in a lighter style.
To exemplify the richer style we can’t think of a better example than Bastide Blanche, who delivers an entire harvest basket of Blood orange, sorbet, mandarin orange, fresh raspberry, hibiscus, lavender and sage that’s all underscored by a chalky minerality. Made from a minimum of 75% Mourvèdre, Bastide Blanche is considered a benchmark producer of this style of Bandol rose; with the estate being originally founded to compete with the best of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the north. Also known for being one of the few roses that benefits from bottle age, the texture of the wine becomes almost tea-like on the finish with the fruit also softening as well. Bastide Blanche is a “Red wine drinker’s rose” being the perfect alternative to a heavier red on a hot day, afternoon or evening.
On the other side of the ring we have the legendary Domaine Tempier, arguably the most famous Bandol producer in the entire world (Rose or otherwise). Markedly lighter in shade but not in flavor when compared to the Bastide Blanche, there is a pervasive creaminess that adds and emphasizes the lightness of the Tempier rose which can be attributed to the more equitable blend of Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Grenache. Flavors of strawberries and cream, white peach, gardenia, yarrow flower and tarragon make this incredibly nuanced yet linear when tasting, and promises even further development with some more time in the bottle.
In stock and available now:
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rose Provence 2020 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Light orange-pink. Expressive, mineral-accented orange zest, red currant, nectarine and succulent floral and herb aromas take on a spicy nuance with air. Lively and sharply focused in the mouth, offering concentrated red berry, pit fruit, tangerine and honeysuckle flavors and a hint of tarragon. The mineral and floral notes drive an impressively long, precise finish that leaves white peach and spice notes behind.”
Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Bandol Rose Provence 2020 750ML ($31.95) $26 special
Case-12 Bastide Blanche Bandol Rose 2020 750ml ($359.95) $288 special (That’s only $24 a bottle!)
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Limpid orange-pink. Expressive red berry, blood orange and pit fruit aromas are accompanied by building mineral and floral nuances. Taut and energetic in the mouth, offering sappy strawberry, orange zest and lavender flavors braced by a spine of chalky minerality. Finishes silky and impressively long, with repeating mineral and floral notes.”
Weygandt-Metzler Import note “Mourvedre, Grenache, Cinsault, Clairette. Organic. Clay, limestone & cailloux. Tasting note: Dense cherry and raspberry fruit with citrus and stone flavors. Full body with a perfectly balanced and long finish.”
Region: Bandol, Provence, France.
The Rheingau’s Baron of Bone-Dry Riesling
The Rheingau is one of the smallest German wine regions in terms of both size and output, and yet produces some of the best Rieslings in the entire country. We were lucky enough to secure a small lot of JB Becker, one of the areas cult producers of dry to off-dry Riesling. After apprenticing under a cellarmaster in his youth, Hans-Josef Becker decided to fully transition his family’s operation to Dry and Off-Dry Riesling and hasn’t looked back in 50 years. These are wines made similar in style to Prum in that fermentations are short with long elevage, or tank aging and always done with wild yeasts. Becker’s work captures the essence of Riesling, with emphasis on the rarely seen brawny, smokey and powerful side of the varietal that is unmistakably Rheingau. From his entry level cuvee to his single vineyards there’s a distinctive huángchá, chrysanthemum and pippin apple that make it absolutely fantastic with sushi, paella or Creole food.
In Stock Now & Limited in Availability:
J.B. Becker Wallufer Riesling Trocken Rheingau 2019 1L ($29.95) $25.50 special, 8 bottles in stock now
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
J.B. Becker Wallufer Walkenberg Alte Reben Riesling Kabinett Trocken Rheingau 2015 750ML ($37.95) $28 special, only 17 bottles available
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 91 points “The 2015 Rheingau Riesling Wallufer Walkenberg Kabinett Trocken is bright and herbal on the nose. On the palate, this is a classic: lean, straight, mineral and a bit steely but waking the dead up to life. This wine is bone dry, but it has stunningly intense and concentrated apricot fruit. A fascinating Kabinett at 12% alcohol. Highly recommended!”
James Suckling 92 points “This dry Riesling is decptively light when you taste the first sip, but the longer you give it, the more lemon and earth character and the more textural complexity emerges. Super-straight and very pure with a long mineral finish, this is just beginning to give its best and will blossom through 2030.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
J.B. Becker Wallufer Walkenberg Riesling Spatlese Trocken Rheingau 2019 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, only 24 bottles available
James Suckling 94 points “Cool and herbal with a lot of earthy depth, this is a super classic dry riesling that gives you a good idea of how the great Rheingau wines of a century ago tasted. Not only concentrated, but so precisely contoured with great minerality, this is still quite tightly wound. However, the long, crisp mineral finish leaves you in no doubt about the wine’s class. Made from organically grown grapes. Better from 2022.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
J.B. Becker Wallufer Oberberg Riesling Kabinett Halbtrocken Rheingau 2019 750ML ($37.95) $28 special, only 22 bottles available
James Suckling 93 points “Very fresh and floral with white peaches and delicate herbal overtones, this riesling kabinett is almost dry and so crisp. It cries out for smoked salmon or sturgeon, but would also make a great refresher after powerful reds. From organically grown grapes. Drink now.”
Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate “The 2019 Wallufer Oberberg Riesling Kabinett halbtrocken is pure, fresh, clear and floral on the coolish, lean, elegant and even flinty and herbal nose. Bottled with 11.5% alcohol, this is as juicy, fresh and charming but also grippy Kabinett in the off-dry style. Straight character with levity. Tasted from AP 8 19 in April 2020.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Collector’s Corner
Rare: The Crown Jewel of Piper-Heidsieck
You’ve heard of Cristal and Dom Pérignon; but did you know that there is an even rarer top offering from a Grand Marque? Produced only 12 times in its 46 year history, Piper-Heidsieck’s Rare lives up to the name. Dom Pérignon, by comparison, has been made 45 times in 100 years.
The wine is crafted by an exclusive Chef de Cave named Régis Camus who, until 2018, was in charge of all of Piper-Heidsieck’s production. Under the direction of Camus, 8 times honored as the ‘Sparkling Winemaker of the Year’, there is nothing short of artistry at work here. Citing a commitment to “balancing fruit, minerality and freshness and to still be young in 20 years” Rare is aged a minimum of 10 years prior to release, with most see even longer bottle age (2008 was just announced after over 13 years). Every vintage is given a title by Camus, meant to offer a “photograph” of the vintage and resulting Champagne. For the 2006 (in stock now), the word is “Sunny”, offering the promise of richness and great phenolic development.
In Stock Now:
Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millésime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($179.95) $169 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 96 points “Aromas and flavors of toasted brioche and grilled nut enrich the yellow plum, nectarine and grated ginger notes of this rich and creamy Champagne. Finely woven and beautifully integrated, with a firm backbone of mouthwatering acidity providing precise balance for the lush range of flavor. Drink now through 2029. 14,000 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.”
The wine is crafted by an exclusive Chef de Cave named Régis Camus who, until 2018, was in charge of all of Piper-Heidsieck’s production. Under the direction of Camus, 8 times honored as the ‘Sparkling Winemaker of the Year’, there is nothing short of artistry at work here. Citing a commitment to “balancing fruit, minerality and freshness and to still be young in 20 years” Rare is aged a minimum of 10 years prior to release, with most see even longer bottle age (2008 was just announced after over 13 years). Every vintage is given a title by Camus, meant to offer a “photograph” of the vintage and resulting Champagne. For the 2006 (in stock now), the word is “Sunny”, offering the promise of richness and great phenolic development.
In Stock Now:
Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millésime, Champagne 2006 750ML ($179.95) $169 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 96 points “Aromas and flavors of toasted brioche and grilled nut enrich the yellow plum, nectarine and grated ginger notes of this rich and creamy Champagne. Finely woven and beautifully integrated, with a firm backbone of mouthwatering acidity providing precise balance for the lush range of flavor. Drink now through 2029. 14,000 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.”
Vinopolis is an independent wine shop in Portland that opened in 2004. Our goal has always been to offer the finest, broadest, and largest selection of wines at the best prices to our customers in Portland, in Oregon, across the West Coast, and throughout the United States.
Thank you for reading and for continuing to support our team!
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.
Thank you for reading and for continuing to support our team!
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.