In Today’s Newsletter:
Eisele Vineyard Subscriber Sale
Beaux Freres’ Les Cousins
Get the Insider Scoop on Spreitzer
Trending
Staff Pick
Exploring Alsace with Agathe Bursin
Arriving Friday
Domaine du Gour de Chaule
Nerd Alert!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi
Subscriber Special:
Eisele
Eisele is one of the most hallowed terroirs in the Napa Valley. Tucked into the foothills in Calistoga, it has produced incredible wines since 1971 for Phelps, Araujo and now (indirectly) Chateau Latour, who bought the property a few years ago. Their flagship bottling is made to compete with first growth Bordeaux and very much does—this is collectible and profoundly complex and ageworthy. And on our subscriber sale, it’s made an even better star of your cellar.
In Stock & On Sale Now:
Eisele Vineyard (formerly Araujo) Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2016 750ML ($599.95) Was $539, Now $479 Subscriber Special, 8 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 100 points “The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon has a deep garnet-purple color. Its nose begins a little reserved, slowly revealing a quiet intensity of freshly crushed blackberries, chocolate-covered cherries, cassis and aniseed with compelling nuances of black tea, cigar box, truffles and charcuterie, plus, with coaxing, gentle wafts of red roses and crushed rocks emerge. The medium to full-bodied palate is simply arresting, offering a a myriad floral and earth sparks amidst a black fruit core and with seamless, firm, very fine-grained tannins. Well-knit freshness brings forth layer after layer of delicate nuances on the very long, mineral-laced finish. The team at Eisele, led by Frédéric Engerer (of Chateau Latour) and beautifully orchestrated by winemaker Hélène Mingot, have knocked it out of the park this vintage with this singular expression that both embraces the site’s heritage and reveals parts unknown.-LPB”
Decanter 100 points “One of the most legendary vineyards in the Napa Valley, the Eisele Vineyard was purchased by François Pinault of Château Latour in Pauillac in the Médoc, Bordeaux from the Araujo family which had owned it for 23 years (from 1990 to 2013). The winemaking is now in the hands of 41-year-old winemaker Hélène Mingot. For this vintage, Hélène used only rockiest blocks planted in shallow soils near Simmons Creek.”
In Stock & On Sale Now:
Eisele Vineyard (formerly Araujo) Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2016 750ML ($599.95) Was $539, Now $479 Subscriber Special, 8 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 100 points “The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon has a deep garnet-purple color. Its nose begins a little reserved, slowly revealing a quiet intensity of freshly crushed blackberries, chocolate-covered cherries, cassis and aniseed with compelling nuances of black tea, cigar box, truffles and charcuterie, plus, with coaxing, gentle wafts of red roses and crushed rocks emerge. The medium to full-bodied palate is simply arresting, offering a a myriad floral and earth sparks amidst a black fruit core and with seamless, firm, very fine-grained tannins. Well-knit freshness brings forth layer after layer of delicate nuances on the very long, mineral-laced finish. The team at Eisele, led by Frédéric Engerer (of Chateau Latour) and beautifully orchestrated by winemaker Hélène Mingot, have knocked it out of the park this vintage with this singular expression that both embraces the site’s heritage and reveals parts unknown.-LPB”
Decanter 100 points “One of the most legendary vineyards in the Napa Valley, the Eisele Vineyard was purchased by François Pinault of Château Latour in Pauillac in the Médoc, Bordeaux from the Araujo family which had owned it for 23 years (from 1990 to 2013). The winemaking is now in the hands of 41-year-old winemaker Hélène Mingot. For this vintage, Hélène used only rockiest blocks planted in shallow soils near Simmons Creek.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $565
Eisele Vineyard ‘Altagracia’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2016 750ML ($169.95) Was $149, Now $119 Subscriber Special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “Lots of violets and dark berries with sweet underbrush and fresh mushrooms, following through to a medium to full body, soft and silky tannins and a succulent and refined finish. It remains supple and beautiful. Hard not to drink now. Better after 2023.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “The Altagracia is produced almost exclusively from estate fruit this year and was bottled at the end of June 2018. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Altagracia comes bursting forth with vivacious black cherries, blackberries, wild blueberries and cassis notes with touches of cinnamon stick, cloves, forest floor, violets and dusty earth with a waft of violets. The palate is medium to full-bodied, firm and grainy with loads of iron and mineral accents, finishing long and perfumed.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
A profound and “mysteriously compelling wine”
Eisele Vineyard Syrah, Napa Valley 2015 750ML ($279.95) Was $199, Now $169 Subscriber Special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Rich, polished and densely complex, with expressive blackberry, bay leaf and smoky pepper flavors that take on intensity toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2027.”
Skurnik Imports Notes “Syrah was first planted on the estate in 1978. After making wine from the few remaining vines in 1991 and 1993, a serious commitment to this ancient and noble grape was made, increasing the plantings in the vineyard. Eisele Syrah is a profound, mysteriously compelling wine that reveals yet another aspect of the Eisele Vineyard’s unique terroir.”
Subscriber Special
Beaux Freres’ Les Cousins
Arriving Friday!
Subscriber-Only Discount Will Not Appear Online
We will manually adjust pricing before finalizing your order
We will manually adjust pricing before finalizing your order
A secret blend of barrels from one of the Willamette Valley’s Great Estates. This is a crazy bargain next to the single vineyard wines that run at roughly three times the price. A true insider value!
Beaux Freres Les Cousins Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($49.95) Displayed price: $37, Your Price: $33.50 Subscriber Special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Get the Insider Scoop on Spreitzer from
Wine Spectator Insider
Arriving Late April
Spreitzer crafts plush and exotic Rieslings that are enchanting and fun. These wines are typical of the lyric side of the Rheingau. At a time when most of the great old names of the Rheingau have been resting on their laurels, Spreitzer has turned themselves into a truly must-buy producer. These have the classic aristocracy of the Rheingau, but with beautiful fruit and lively personalities that make them very easy to drink young. We’re happy to feature the newly reviewed Rosengarten, but don’t miss the rest of the lineup arriving at the end of the month!
Only 12 bottles available!
Weingut Josef Spreitzer Oestricher Lenchen ‘Rosengarten’ Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Pure and focused, with underlying silkiness giving this a seductive texture, while flavors of guava, kiwifruit and quince blossom lend ample charm. Very open despite the high acidity, exhibiting more than enough flesh for harmony. Well-made, showing a lemon-lime mix on the finish. Best from 2021 through 2034.”
Only 12 bottles available!
Weingut Josef Spreitzer Oestricher Lenchen ‘Rosengarten’ Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “Pure and focused, with underlying silkiness giving this a seductive texture, while flavors of guava, kiwifruit and quince blossom lend ample charm. Very open despite the high acidity, exhibiting more than enough flesh for harmony. Well-made, showing a lemon-lime mix on the finish. Best from 2021 through 2034.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Also Arriving Late April from Spreitzer:
Weingut Josef Spreitzer Hattenheimer Wisselbrunnen Riesling Erstes Gewachs, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special, only 12 bottles available!
Terry Theise note “I can’t recall when a young Wisselbrunnen was this present, even more than the ’17 was. There’s a fine refined aroma of hickory nuts and conifer, that leads into a serious and suavely firm and substantive palate with lots of echo and umami, and then a stoniness enters, and the finish just doesn’t quit. Reminds me of 2012 at its graceful best, and it’s a pure Rheingau Grand Cru (at least from the riverfront), self-assured but not haughty.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $52.99
Weingut Josef Spreitzer Oestricher Lenchen Riesling Kabinett, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special, only 23 bottles available!
Terry Theise note “We made it drier, at which point it showed more mid-palate and less elbows-and-knees, becoming a frisky balanced wine with a crisp finish; mirabelles, yellow fruits and lemon-zest, salty and salivating. This wine has come a long way from the simpler and fruitier wine it once was.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Weingut Josef Spreitzer Winkeler Jesuitengarten Riesling Spatlese, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($37.95) $29 pre-arrival special, only 24 bottles available!
Terry Theise note “There were two options. A drier one is classic, upholstered, earthy and dense with just an edge of sweetness, rural and with a fragrance of leaf-decay. The “sweeter” wine ran to the usual violet and lavender but showed a sweet finish, and yet the wine’s more playful. You guessed it; we blended them and enjoyed much of the best of both worlds, though Andi will keep at it until he gets the exact one he wants. I want this wine to be earnest and Jesuitical and also delicious. Tall order, but Andi’s a pretty tall guy.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $35
Weingut Josef Spreitzer ‘303’ Oestricher Lenchen Riesling Spatlese, Rheingau 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 pre-arrival special, only 11 bottles available!
Terry Theise note “The cadaster is called Eiserberg (iron hill), from which a record-setting wine of 303º Oechsle was gathered back in the 1920s. The record’s since been broken but come on; this is the climate-change era. This ’18 has a blatant fragrance of iron, white flowers and pickled ginger and a mass of pulverized mineral; it’s as sleek as the 2004 and yet as rich as the 2015, and if there’s any botrytis it’s clean and discreet. The sweetness is taut and buzzing. The most exciting vintage in many years! What is this wine, though? It’s somewhat too rich and intense for a typical Spätlese and too buoyant for a typical Auslese, and so it becomes a wine that’s oblique to the notion of “utility,” how it might be used. This can drive you crazy unless you can somehow cherish the whole idea of a wine existing merely because it is beautiful. OK, yes, that’s all well and good, but at some point we decide to open it, and then what, when, why, how? My only answer would be, that we contrive the occasion for the wine to be like a painting on your wall; you look at it and are happier and richer. It doesn’t have to “perform” in any way. It simply returns your life to you as a finer and deeper matter. And if a painting can do this, why not a wine?”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $55.99
Trending
A special restaurant reserve bottling of the Willamette Valley Pinot Noir that is so popular, we can barely keep it in stock!
Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-6 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($129.95) $99 special (that’s only $16.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($219.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
B. Leighton Olsen Brothers Vineyard Syrah, Yakima Valley 2016 ($59.95) Was $45, Now $39 Subscriber Special
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2016 Syrah comes from a site in the Yakima Valley that was planted by Leighton. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by classic Syrah notes of dark berry fruits, smoke tobacco, olive tapenade, and ground pepper. Medium to full-bodied, with both freshness and richness, it’s impeccably balanced, with beautiful fruit and a great finish. It’s another seriously good wine from Brennon that delivers the goods. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.”
Charles Smith / K Vintner’s Winery Note “Deep, dark, and brooding. Dare I say seductive? Black plum, exotic owers, grilled meats, sage, and wet earth. Finishes bold and lovely with purity. This wine is dynamic!100% Syrah / 100% whole cluster pressed / Native yeast / 39 days on skins / 20% new, 80% once-used French oak puncheons / 19 mo. barrel-aged on lees.”
“precisely the type of year in which Il Poggione excels”
Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($89.95) Was $61.90, Now $55 Subscriber Special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino lives up to the impeccable reputation garnered by this estate over the years. This is a profound and beautifully rendered Sangiovese that delivers bold and luscious fruit quality with black cherry and spicy plum at the start. The bouquet follows through with mild oak notes of smoke, tar and toasted nut. There is another aromatic component that includes crushed stone and dried herb or mint. This Brunello shows elegant evolution in the glass and promises a very long aging future ahead. Some 200,000 bottles were made, so it should be easy to locate this excellent wine.”
Ian D’agata – Vinous 95 points “Bright red. Pure, refined red cherry and wild strawberry aromas and flavors complicated by sweet spices and aromatic herbs. Deep and multilayered, the wine boasts polished tannins and a harmonious acid spine that lifts and extends the red fruit on the long, suave finish. An essence of Sant’Angelo in Colle with bigger body and palate weight than, for example, the Brunellos of Montosoli, but still sleek and refined as the best wines of Sant’Angelo in Colle can be. The cool-climate-styled 2013 vintage is precisely the type of year in which Il Poggione excels: this lovely, focused wine is the best classico Brunello from Il Poggione in years. Superb.”
“This is one of the year’s best Brunellos”
Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($89.95) Was $59, Now $55 Subscriber Special
Wine Advocate 95+ points “Il Poggione is a Brunello superstar and a vintage like this reveals every reason why that affirmation is true. From the second the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino pours into the glass, you know you are in for something special. The wine is darkly saturated and rich in appearance. Absent are those slightly amber or browning hues you often get with Sangiovese in a hot vintage. Nor does the wine show flat or tired characteristics. Instead, the quality of fruit is vibrant and rich. This is a healthy, generous and exuberant Brunello with dark density and succulent fruit flavors that are followed by integrated spice and tobacco. The balance is impressive and one thing you get here is fresh acidity. This is not to be underestimated, because the acidity quota in the 2012 vintage across the appellation is not as high or evident as usual. This is one of the year’s best Brunellos.”
Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-6 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($129.95) $99 special (that’s only $16.50/bottle!)
Case-12 Goodfellow Family Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2016 750ML ($219.95) $189 special (that’s only $15.75/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
B. Leighton Olsen Brothers Vineyard Syrah, Yakima Valley 2016 ($59.95) Was $45, Now $39 Subscriber SpecialJeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2016 Syrah comes from a site in the Yakima Valley that was planted by Leighton. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by classic Syrah notes of dark berry fruits, smoke tobacco, olive tapenade, and ground pepper. Medium to full-bodied, with both freshness and richness, it’s impeccably balanced, with beautiful fruit and a great finish. It’s another seriously good wine from Brennon that delivers the goods. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.”
Charles Smith / K Vintner’s Winery Note “Deep, dark, and brooding. Dare I say seductive? Black plum, exotic owers, grilled meats, sage, and wet earth. Finishes bold and lovely with purity. This wine is dynamic!100% Syrah / 100% whole cluster pressed / Native yeast / 39 days on skins / 20% new, 80% once-used French oak puncheons / 19 mo. barrel-aged on lees.”
“precisely the type of year in which Il Poggione excels”
Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($89.95) Was $61.90, Now $55 Subscriber Special
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino lives up to the impeccable reputation garnered by this estate over the years. This is a profound and beautifully rendered Sangiovese that delivers bold and luscious fruit quality with black cherry and spicy plum at the start. The bouquet follows through with mild oak notes of smoke, tar and toasted nut. There is another aromatic component that includes crushed stone and dried herb or mint. This Brunello shows elegant evolution in the glass and promises a very long aging future ahead. Some 200,000 bottles were made, so it should be easy to locate this excellent wine.”
Ian D’agata – Vinous 95 points “Bright red. Pure, refined red cherry and wild strawberry aromas and flavors complicated by sweet spices and aromatic herbs. Deep and multilayered, the wine boasts polished tannins and a harmonious acid spine that lifts and extends the red fruit on the long, suave finish. An essence of Sant’Angelo in Colle with bigger body and palate weight than, for example, the Brunellos of Montosoli, but still sleek and refined as the best wines of Sant’Angelo in Colle can be. The cool-climate-styled 2013 vintage is precisely the type of year in which Il Poggione excels: this lovely, focused wine is the best classico Brunello from Il Poggione in years. Superb.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $77
The average listed price is $77
“This is one of the year’s best Brunellos”
Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($89.95) Was $59, Now $55 Subscriber SpecialWine Advocate 95+ points “Il Poggione is a Brunello superstar and a vintage like this reveals every reason why that affirmation is true. From the second the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino pours into the glass, you know you are in for something special. The wine is darkly saturated and rich in appearance. Absent are those slightly amber or browning hues you often get with Sangiovese in a hot vintage. Nor does the wine show flat or tired characteristics. Instead, the quality of fruit is vibrant and rich. This is a healthy, generous and exuberant Brunello with dark density and succulent fruit flavors that are followed by integrated spice and tobacco. The balance is impressive and one thing you get here is fresh acidity. This is not to be underestimated, because the acidity quota in the 2012 vintage across the appellation is not as high or evident as usual. This is one of the year’s best Brunellos.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $80
The average listed price is $80
Trending Wines Arriving April 30th:
Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($39.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($419.95) $219 pre-arrival special (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($419.95) $249 pre-arrival special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Staff Pick
Exploring Alsace with Agathe Bursin
Exploring Alsace with Agathe Bursin
Andy:
Alsace is a region that can be easily appreciated but is not often investigated too deeply. To be certain, there are die-hard fans of the dry and often powerfully aromatic wines. For the casual wine drinker however, there might not be any draw to the area outside of the pleasant and usually affordable field blends and the lovely Cremant d’Alsace. The area is special for many reasons and one can find some treasures for youthful enjoyment and for the long haul in the cellar. There are stories of Romans, Dragons, Volcanoes – there’s so much to spark the imagination and so much to love.
The first step is understanding the climate and soils of the region, and how they transform the fruit from something completely separate from their neighbors across the river. The area is typically quite dry and warm due to the sheltering influence of the Vosges and this leads to a concentration and power to the wines that should appeal to many new-world, white wine lovers. Aside from that initial aromatic wow factor, there are many layers to the wines. There are Grand Cru vineyards dotted along the entire length of the appellation, and the variety in soils (Volcanic, sandstone, marl, limestone, loess, slate, granite) in this relatively small stretch of valley lends itself to very different fruit being available.
If you’re looking for benchmark producers there are the stars like Weinbach, Mann, or Zind-Humbrecht, but their wines are increasingly difficult to find and the prices are still creeping higher. There are producers in the next tier that are making wines of comparable, and sometimes, superior quality and the price tags are not nearly as steep. We’ve beat this drum for quite some time, but the wines of Agathe Bursin are the shining example of where to find the payoff for standout quality. She’s making some of the best Sylvaner I’ve ever had, her Muscat and Gewurztraminer are both on par with wines I’ve enjoyed from Weinbach, and her Pinot Gris takes me back to some of my first favorite wines. Of all her wines, though, I love to sample her Rieslings.
There are the Dirstelberg, and Bollenberg and the Grand Cru Zinnkoepfle bottles. All three tend to run a touch leaner but each has something special that comes from the sites. Dirstelberg shows the most breadth across the palate, and the most stone fruit and orange up front. It is my favorite in its youth, but shows well with a couple of years to mellow out and develop some citrus oil and length in the finish. Bollenberg and the GC Zinnkoepfle are within a stones throw of each other, but the difference is remarkable. The Bollenberg is a warm site but is dominated by loess soils and has a brilliant floral quality that absolutely floats. In cooler vintages it can be somewhat austere, but opens up nicely over a couple of days. The Zinnkoepfle vineyard is awash in fossil rich limestone and wraps around a hill top similar to Corton. The Bursin winery is situated right at the base of the vineyards and there is a clear connection with the terroir. The wine is powerful with tropical notes and the right balance of acidity to keep the wine feeling weightless. It is ages with grace, maintaining the lightness, salinity, but adding a creamy mid palate that is tremendously luxurious. It is outperforms the price point, and makes you second guess the Weinbach or Trimbach you have in the cellar.
Highlights In Stock Now from Agathe Bursin:
Agathe Bursin Riesling Dirstelberg, Alsace 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Ian D’Agata – Vinous 91 points “Bright straw-yellow. Aromas of peach, orange oil and white pepper. Supple, dense and broad, showing attractive spicy lift to the ripe flavors of soft citrus fruits, apple and pear. Densely packed, displaying nicely persistent soft citrus high tones and a hint of creamy sweetness that is more obvious than the low 4 g/L r.s. implies. Made from 65-year-old vines that are a different massal selection of Riesling than that planted in the Bollenberg.”
Alsace is a region that can be easily appreciated but is not often investigated too deeply. To be certain, there are die-hard fans of the dry and often powerfully aromatic wines. For the casual wine drinker however, there might not be any draw to the area outside of the pleasant and usually affordable field blends and the lovely Cremant d’Alsace. The area is special for many reasons and one can find some treasures for youthful enjoyment and for the long haul in the cellar. There are stories of Romans, Dragons, Volcanoes – there’s so much to spark the imagination and so much to love.
The first step is understanding the climate and soils of the region, and how they transform the fruit from something completely separate from their neighbors across the river. The area is typically quite dry and warm due to the sheltering influence of the Vosges and this leads to a concentration and power to the wines that should appeal to many new-world, white wine lovers. Aside from that initial aromatic wow factor, there are many layers to the wines. There are Grand Cru vineyards dotted along the entire length of the appellation, and the variety in soils (Volcanic, sandstone, marl, limestone, loess, slate, granite) in this relatively small stretch of valley lends itself to very different fruit being available.
If you’re looking for benchmark producers there are the stars like Weinbach, Mann, or Zind-Humbrecht, but their wines are increasingly difficult to find and the prices are still creeping higher. There are producers in the next tier that are making wines of comparable, and sometimes, superior quality and the price tags are not nearly as steep. We’ve beat this drum for quite some time, but the wines of Agathe Bursin are the shining example of where to find the payoff for standout quality. She’s making some of the best Sylvaner I’ve ever had, her Muscat and Gewurztraminer are both on par with wines I’ve enjoyed from Weinbach, and her Pinot Gris takes me back to some of my first favorite wines. Of all her wines, though, I love to sample her Rieslings.
There are the Dirstelberg, and Bollenberg and the Grand Cru Zinnkoepfle bottles. All three tend to run a touch leaner but each has something special that comes from the sites. Dirstelberg shows the most breadth across the palate, and the most stone fruit and orange up front. It is my favorite in its youth, but shows well with a couple of years to mellow out and develop some citrus oil and length in the finish. Bollenberg and the GC Zinnkoepfle are within a stones throw of each other, but the difference is remarkable. The Bollenberg is a warm site but is dominated by loess soils and has a brilliant floral quality that absolutely floats. In cooler vintages it can be somewhat austere, but opens up nicely over a couple of days. The Zinnkoepfle vineyard is awash in fossil rich limestone and wraps around a hill top similar to Corton. The Bursin winery is situated right at the base of the vineyards and there is a clear connection with the terroir. The wine is powerful with tropical notes and the right balance of acidity to keep the wine feeling weightless. It is ages with grace, maintaining the lightness, salinity, but adding a creamy mid palate that is tremendously luxurious. It is outperforms the price point, and makes you second guess the Weinbach or Trimbach you have in the cellar.
Highlights In Stock Now from Agathe Bursin:
Agathe Bursin Riesling Dirstelberg, Alsace 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 14 bottles in stock nowIan D’Agata – Vinous 91 points “Bright straw-yellow. Aromas of peach, orange oil and white pepper. Supple, dense and broad, showing attractive spicy lift to the ripe flavors of soft citrus fruits, apple and pear. Densely packed, displaying nicely persistent soft citrus high tones and a hint of creamy sweetness that is more obvious than the low 4 g/L r.s. implies. Made from 65-year-old vines that are a different massal selection of Riesling than that planted in the Bollenberg.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Agathe Bursin Sylvaner Lutzeltal, Alsace 2018 750ML ($24.95) $19 special, 8 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: Bursin is known for Sylvaner and this is her entry-level bottling. While it lacks the complexity and intensity of the higher-end wines, it offers great value and is wonderful insight into the house style.
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Agathe Bursin Pinot Gris Zinnkoepfle Vendanges Tardives, Alsace Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Ian D’Agata – Vinous 94 points “Vivid golden-tinged dark yellow. Apple pie, caramel, truffle and passion fruit nectar on the nose and palate, complicated by a hint of lemony botrytis. Very pure, precise and rich, displaying delightful acid-fruit balance. Closes long and luscious but with lively acidity keeping this sneakily concentrated beauty light on its feet. Clocks in at 5.3 g/L total acidity and 101 g/L residual sugar. About 20% of the grapes were hit by noble rot, which helps add a measure of complexity to this really lovely late harvest wine.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Agathe Bursin Riesling Zinnkoepfle Vendanges Tardives, Alsace Grand Cru 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Ian D’Agata – Vinous 92 points “Golden-tinged straw. The deep, rich nose boasts captivating aromas of honey, crystallized ginger and mango. Then light and refined and not at all weighty on the palate, offering precise flavors of tropical fruits and sweet spices. No noble rot hit these grapes, but there was plenty of passerillage (8.1 g/L total acidity and 65 g/L total [sugar]). Lovely VT.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Agathe Bursin Gewurztraminer Zinnkoepfle Grand Cru Selection de Grains Nobles 2015 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Ian D’Agata – Vinous 95 points “Medium golden yellow. Very typical Gewürz nose of ripe tropical fruit, sweet spices, smoky bacon and orange oil. Then rich, dense and sweet, offering bitter orange marmalade and lemon peel flavors complicated by notes of cane sugar, guava and kumquat. Finishes suave and quite luscious, at once opulent and yet light on its feet. This has terrific sugar-acid balance (4.1 g/L total acidity and 92 g/L residual sugar).”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Want to see all fourteen in-stock wines from Bursin?
Just head to our web store to see the full list.
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When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you,
please let us know their name when placing your order.)
www.vinopoliswineshop.com
info@vinopoliswineshop.com
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Hot Picks Arriving Friday
Arterberry Maresh Chardonnay Eola-Amity Hills AVA 2018 750ML ($21.95) $17 pre-arrival special
Winery note “Young vine Wente selection Chardonnay (CH72). Handpicked and whole-cluster-pressed, fermentation took place in 20% new French oak, 20% stainless steel and 60% neutral oak. After 9 months of aging in 228L barrels, the wine was finished in stainless steel drums for 2 months on fine lees. Lightly fined and filtered, it was bottled with DIAM cork.”
Winery note “Young vine Wente selection Chardonnay (CH72). Handpicked and whole-cluster-pressed, fermentation took place in 20% new French oak, 20% stainless steel and 60% neutral oak. After 9 months of aging in 228L barrels, the wine was finished in stainless steel drums for 2 months on fine lees. Lightly fined and filtered, it was bottled with DIAM cork.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
“it’s probably the bargain of the vintage” –Neal Martin
Arterberry Maresh Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Winery-cellared release!
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Brilliant red. High-pitched raspberry and rose scents are complemented by hints of anise and allspice. Shows very good energy and depth to the red berry and floral pastille flavors, which are given lift by a spine of juicy acidity. Closes smooth, spicy and very long; fine-grained tannins frame the juicy, appealingly sweet red fruit. This wine delivers outstanding value and shows impressive nerve for a warm vintage.”
Neal Martin-Wine Advocate 90 points “The 2014 Pinot Noir Dundee Hills is a blend of Maresh, Juliard, Weber, Gehrts and Folie Hill vineyards. It has a fresh and vibrant bouquet with red cherry and wild strawberry fruit, touches of blood orange with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin – a mixture here of red and black fruit, meaty in style with a Pommard-like finish that lingers in the mouth. For $25, it’s probably the bargain of the vintage.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Only 24 bottles available!
Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Millesime, Champagne 2012 750ML ($299.95) $249 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2012 Cristal is another absolutely stellar wine this flight of recent releases. Rich, vinous and beautifully textured, the 2012 has been nothing short of magnificent on the three occasions I have tasted it so far. In the glass, the 2012 is radiant and luscious, yet it possesses remarkable transparency and striking aromatic depth. Light tropical notes develop in the glass, giving the 2012 a real feeling of exotic beauty. The 2012 is the first vintage of Cristal done with 100% organically-farmed fruit, an approach introduced gradually starting with the 2007 that has profoundly changes Cristal, especially in its aromatic breadth. Two thousand twelve is the vintage where endless trials and experiments in farming and winemaking are fully realized. The 2012 is just stunning. It’s as simple as that. Dosage is just over 7 grams per liter, the lowest it has even been for Cristal.”
James Suckling 98 points “Such attractive, fresh, floral aromas here with fine bread, hints of white almonds and a lemon edge. White cherries and strong, chalky minerals, too. The palate has a very composed feel. Seamless and quite silky texture with effortless length and flow. Very fluid and composed. Very late, warming almond flavors. This is very long and smooth with a velvety finish. Super long pinot weight. Resolved and drinkable, but will age so well.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 97+ points “Aromas of clear honey, crisp green orchard fruit, white peach, pastry cream and dried white flowers introduce the 2012 Cristal, a full-bodied, concentrated and powerful wine that’s built for the cellar. Broader, more textural and more muscular than the 2008 Cristal, with seemingly even greater reserves of structuring dry extract, the 2012 is incisive and searingly chalky. This is the first Cristal produced exclusively from organically farmed fruit, and it marks the opening of a new chapter for Louis Roderer. The blend is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, vinified without malolactic fermentation and disgorged with 7.5 grams per liter dosage. Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lecaillon has once again excelled himself.”
Jancis Robinson 19/20 points “To be launched December 2019 or January 2020. Not affected by the oidium problems experienced elsewhere. 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay (the same as 2008). ‘You have to adapt and stay on the blank page. If you try to tick too many boxes, you go in the wrong direction.’ It will be the average age for Cristal launch. It was 2008 that was late. This will be the first 100% biodynamic Cristal. Rich and ripe, like 2002. Pungent nose — straight up the nose. Gorgeous and seductive. Complex and embroidered. Already lovely. 19/20 points.”
Tenuta Tascante ‘Ghiaia Nera’ Etna Rosso, Sicily 2016 750ML ($24.95) $16.60 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Tenuta Tascante ‘Ghiaia Nera’ Etna Rosso, Sicily 2016 750ML ($299.95) $179 pre-arrival special (that’s only $14.92/bottle!)
Falstaff Magazine 91 points “[Translated] Bright medium-density ruby garnet. Opened with notes of fresh cherry and pomegranate, some flint. Shows pithy tannins and fine fruit.”
Wine Spectator 90 points “An elegant red, balanced and fresh, featuring sculpted tannins that frame flavors of crushed plum and cherry fruit, with lemon thyme and smoke-tinged mineral accents. Drink now through 2026. 4,986 cases made, 940 cases imported.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $18.99
The average price is $22
Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($37.95) $37.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2017 750ML ($449.95) $315 pre-arrival special (that’s only $26.25/bottle!)
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Plum, fragrant blue flower, leather and ripe berry are just some of the aromas you’ll find on this fragrant, delicious wine. It’s chewy and enveloping but also boasts a weightless elegance, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, cranberry compote, licorice and tobacco while velvety fine-grained tannins offer polished support. Drink through 2023.”
James Suckling 93 points “The nose of this Chianti Classico is unique, with abundant fresh rose petals, orange zest and lemon peel. Medium-bodied and very lithe yet firm on the palate. Elegant and very taut and tangy on the finish. So well done in a challenging vintage. Drink now.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
The average price nationally is $34
Domaine du Gour de Chaule
Arriving April 30th
One of the last, best old-school producers in Gigondas in one of the greatest vintages (among a string of greats). This is a Rhone wine for the ages.
Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas Tradition, Rhone 2016 750ML ($49.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas Tradition, Rhone 2016 750ML ($399.95) $359 pre-arrival special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Vivid ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red and pit fruits, potpourri and garrigue, and an exotic spice note emerges in the glass. Stains the palate with sweet raspberry, cherry and lavender pastille flavors that steadily put on weight with air. Conveys a suave blend of power and finesse and finishes extremely long and floral, with fine-grained tannins lending discreet grip.”
Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas Tradition, Rhone 2016 750ML ($49.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas Tradition, Rhone 2016 750ML ($399.95) $359 pre-arrival special (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Vivid ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red and pit fruits, potpourri and garrigue, and an exotic spice note emerges in the glass. Stains the palate with sweet raspberry, cherry and lavender pastille flavors that steadily put on weight with air. Conveys a suave blend of power and finesse and finishes extremely long and floral, with fine-grained tannins lending discreet grip.”
Nerd Alert!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi
Cool, Funky Wines
The wines of the Sisters of the Cistercian order achieved cult status a few years ago, and have been a challenge to acquire ever since. We’re excited to be able to offer the full lineup once again!
Neal Rosenthal note “Fate can have lovely consequences. Our fortuitous encounter with the Bea family of Umbria of course led to the unearthing of one of the great domaines of Italy. But, we have been additionally blessed as we marched together with Giampiero Bea as he made the acquaintance of the Sisters of the Cistercian order living and working at their monastery in Vitorchiano, ninety minutes or so north of Rome in the Lazio district. Here at this quiet religious outpost eighty women of this religious order work vineyards and orchards and gardens organically. Under the guidance of Bea, they produce two wines as honest and sympathetic and gracious as they are. The vineyards are planted to a series of four essentially local white grape varieties: Malvasia, Verdicchio, Grechetto and Trebbiano.”
Arriving April 30th:
Only 12 bottles available!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi Coenobium Bianco, Lazio IGT 2018 750ML ($35.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Neal Rosenthal Note “The Coenobium: is the basic wine of the Monastery with an approximate annual production of 12000 bottles, about 80% of which is shipped through us to satisfy the US market. Its intrigue comes from the volcanic soils that underlay the vineyards and the longer than usual contact that the fermenting juice has with the skins … this being a vinification technique encouraged by Bea.”
Only 12 bottles available!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi Ruscum Bianco, Lazio IGT 2018 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 pre-arrival special
Neal Rosenthal Note “The Ruscum: is a blend of the same four grapes (Trebbiano, Malvasia, Verdicchio and Grechetto) but, in this instance, the juice is left to ferment on the lees for a period of two weeks or more, extracting all of the flavors, colors and textures of its fruit. The result is a wine of often deep golden color and penetrating minerality with hints of herbs, particularly anise, and wild flowers. There are approximately 4000 bottles produced annually of this cuvée, the overwhelming majority of which comes to the USA.”
Only 12 bottles available!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi Benedic Rosso, Lazio IGT 2018 750ML ($33.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Neal Rosenthal Note “‘Benedic’ Rosso: The sisters produce a scant amount of red wine: a charming blend of equal parts Sangiovese and Ciliegiolo called “Benedic.” Despite a two-week maceration, “Benedic” is typically a beautifully pale, translucent wine. Registering just 11% alcohol, its color is calm, soft, and almost coppery—one can sense its gentle nature just from looking at it. A pure, honest nose of red licorice, dried leaves, and fresh pipe tobacco introduces an ethereal caress of a palate with almost no detectable tannins. “Benedic” is a pretty, tasty, plain-speaking wine with no makeup and no pretension, and its softly floral edge puts one in the mind of springtime. Those expecting power may be disappointed, but a wine this guileless is nearly impossible to dislike.”
Neal Rosenthal note “Fate can have lovely consequences. Our fortuitous encounter with the Bea family of Umbria of course led to the unearthing of one of the great domaines of Italy. But, we have been additionally blessed as we marched together with Giampiero Bea as he made the acquaintance of the Sisters of the Cistercian order living and working at their monastery in Vitorchiano, ninety minutes or so north of Rome in the Lazio district. Here at this quiet religious outpost eighty women of this religious order work vineyards and orchards and gardens organically. Under the guidance of Bea, they produce two wines as honest and sympathetic and gracious as they are. The vineyards are planted to a series of four essentially local white grape varieties: Malvasia, Verdicchio, Grechetto and Trebbiano.”
Arriving April 30th:
Only 12 bottles available!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi Coenobium Bianco, Lazio IGT 2018 750ML ($35.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Neal Rosenthal Note “The Coenobium: is the basic wine of the Monastery with an approximate annual production of 12000 bottles, about 80% of which is shipped through us to satisfy the US market. Its intrigue comes from the volcanic soils that underlay the vineyards and the longer than usual contact that the fermenting juice has with the skins … this being a vinification technique encouraged by Bea.”
Only 12 bottles available!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi Ruscum Bianco, Lazio IGT 2018 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 pre-arrival special
Neal Rosenthal Note “The Ruscum: is a blend of the same four grapes (Trebbiano, Malvasia, Verdicchio and Grechetto) but, in this instance, the juice is left to ferment on the lees for a period of two weeks or more, extracting all of the flavors, colors and textures of its fruit. The result is a wine of often deep golden color and penetrating minerality with hints of herbs, particularly anise, and wild flowers. There are approximately 4000 bottles produced annually of this cuvée, the overwhelming majority of which comes to the USA.”
Only 12 bottles available!
Monastero Suore Cistercensi Benedic Rosso, Lazio IGT 2018 750ML ($33.95) $26 pre-arrival special
Neal Rosenthal Note “‘Benedic’ Rosso: The sisters produce a scant amount of red wine: a charming blend of equal parts Sangiovese and Ciliegiolo called “Benedic.” Despite a two-week maceration, “Benedic” is typically a beautifully pale, translucent wine. Registering just 11% alcohol, its color is calm, soft, and almost coppery—one can sense its gentle nature just from looking at it. A pure, honest nose of red licorice, dried leaves, and fresh pipe tobacco introduces an ethereal caress of a palate with almost no detectable tannins. “Benedic” is a pretty, tasty, plain-speaking wine with no makeup and no pretension, and its softly floral edge puts one in the mind of springtime. Those expecting power may be disappointed, but a wine this guileless is nearly impossible to dislike.”
Stay safe, be well, & drink well.