In Today’s Newsletter:
DDO’s Top RoseRock Bottling
The Coveted “Zephirine”
Sicily’s Nearly Lost, Great Underrated Grape
Domaine Grand Pre: A New Star in Fleurie
Don’t Forget
Our 2014 Produttori Subscriber Special Ends Monday Night
Trending
New Wines From Cayuse’s Christophe Baron:
Hors Catagorie/Horsepower/No Girls
Collector’s Corner
New Older Wines from Domaine Gouges
DDO’s Top RoseRock Bottling
The Coveted “Zephirine”
Arrives Next Month
The Coveted “Zephirine”
Arrives Next Month
Domaine Drouhin Oregon is one of the landmark names in Willamette Pinot. They were the original “French import,” long before Meo-Camuzet, Jadot or Liger-Belair thought the region was worth investing in and they’ve been an important player ever since. While they’re best known for their bottlings off of their original vineyard in the Dundee Hills, their “RoseRock” estate in the Eola-Hills has quietly been making some of the best wines in the DDO portfolio over the last few years.
The top wine that Drouhin Oregon makes under the RoseRock label is called Zephrine and it’s a monument to everything we love about Willamette Valley Pinot, especially from the Eola-Amity Hills. Dark fruited, with beautiful floral and spice accents, it’s a wonderful wine that’s only going to get better in your cellar.
Arriving ETA Early May
Roserock Zephirine Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($64.95) $55 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Roserock Zephirine Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($389.95) $315 pre-arrival special (that’s only $52.50/bottle!)
James Suckling 96 points “This has a very impressive sense of density and power with such immaculate detail and definition, in terms of tannin and fruit. The aromas are in the spicy and floral zone with blue-fruit and leafy nuances. Deceptively elegant and convincingly excellent pinot noir. Drink across the next decade.”
The top wine that Drouhin Oregon makes under the RoseRock label is called Zephrine and it’s a monument to everything we love about Willamette Valley Pinot, especially from the Eola-Amity Hills. Dark fruited, with beautiful floral and spice accents, it’s a wonderful wine that’s only going to get better in your cellar.
Arriving ETA Early May
Roserock Zephirine Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($64.95) $55 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Roserock Zephirine Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2017 750ML ($389.95) $315 pre-arrival special (that’s only $52.50/bottle!)
James Suckling 96 points “This has a very impressive sense of density and power with such immaculate detail and definition, in terms of tannin and fruit. The aromas are in the spicy and floral zone with blue-fruit and leafy nuances. Deceptively elegant and convincingly excellent pinot noir. Drink across the next decade.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sicily’s Nearly Lost, Great Underrated Grape
Perricone is the greatest grape in Sicily that no one’s ever heard of. Nearly extinct at the turn of the 20th century, it survived as a blending partner for Nero d’Avola. Only recently has it been vinified on its own and the results can be fantastic. Carusa e Minini make one of the best out there: pretty, fragrant and zesty. It arrives later this month and is one to stock up on.
Arriving ETA Late April:
Caruso E Minini Perricone Naturalmente Bio 2017 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Caruso E Minini Perricone Naturalmente Bio 2017 750ML ($299.95) $228 pre-arrival special (that’s only $19/bottle!)
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 95 points “Bright medium red. Pungently perfumed nose offers violet, lavender, Szechuan pepper, lemongrass, blood orange and small red berries. Then juicy and very fresh flavors similar to the aromas, plus a building licorice note, linger impressively on the medium-bodied mouthfeel. Closes with magical, persistent inner-mouth perfume and truly exceptional clarity and cut. This sees no oak whatsoever, and therefore the wine’s magical perfume is really allowed to shine through. A real knockout of a wine, and easily one of the two or three best Perricones I have ever tried.”
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Free Oregon Ground Shipping on Orders Over $120
Arriving ETA Late April:
Caruso E Minini Perricone Naturalmente Bio 2017 750ML ($24.95) $20.90 pre-arrival special
Case-12 Caruso E Minini Perricone Naturalmente Bio 2017 750ML ($299.95) $228 pre-arrival special (that’s only $19/bottle!)
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 95 points “Bright medium red. Pungently perfumed nose offers violet, lavender, Szechuan pepper, lemongrass, blood orange and small red berries. Then juicy and very fresh flavors similar to the aromas, plus a building licorice note, linger impressively on the medium-bodied mouthfeel. Closes with magical, persistent inner-mouth perfume and truly exceptional clarity and cut. This sees no oak whatsoever, and therefore the wine’s magical perfume is really allowed to shine through. A real knockout of a wine, and easily one of the two or three best Perricones I have ever tried.”
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About Our Oregon April Shipping Special
Free Oregon Ground Shipping on Orders Over $120
Domaine Chateau du Grand Pre
A New Star in Fleurie
Beaujolais is a region in a constant state of revolution—new faces are re-energizing venerable producers and starting their own wineries seemingly every year, leading to new gems that we’re thrilled to be able to taste and sell.
Case in point? The Chateau de Grand Pré—an estate that’s been around since the 70’s but was radically transformed in the last decade, becoming certified organic in 2012 and moving towards a natural-influenced winemaking style under the direction Romain Zordan, the grandson of the estate’s founders. The resulting wines are brilliant, combining a freshness and verve typical of natural Beaujolais producers with a structure and power (and cleanliness) that’s more typical of a classical estate. The old vines help here, as well, lending depth and complexity.
Arriving ETA Late April
Domaine du Chateau de Grand Pre Fleurie ‘Cuvee Spaciale’, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Importer Note “100% Gamay from 60 to 70 year old vines planted on sandy soil, with a granitic subsoil. The yields are tiny and average 15 hl/ha. The grapes are hand harvested, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, no added sulfite during the vinification. Aged for 7 months in older demi-muids (600 liters). Pronounced aromas of sour cherries, fruity and plump palate with well-integrated tannins. Serve at 59 to 61F.”
Case in point? The Chateau de Grand Pré—an estate that’s been around since the 70’s but was radically transformed in the last decade, becoming certified organic in 2012 and moving towards a natural-influenced winemaking style under the direction Romain Zordan, the grandson of the estate’s founders. The resulting wines are brilliant, combining a freshness and verve typical of natural Beaujolais producers with a structure and power (and cleanliness) that’s more typical of a classical estate. The old vines help here, as well, lending depth and complexity.
Arriving ETA Late April
Domaine du Chateau de Grand Pre Fleurie ‘Cuvee Spaciale’, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($39.95) $33 pre-arrival special
Importer Note “100% Gamay from 60 to 70 year old vines planted on sandy soil, with a granitic subsoil. The yields are tiny and average 15 hl/ha. The grapes are hand harvested, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, no added sulfite during the vinification. Aged for 7 months in older demi-muids (600 liters). Pronounced aromas of sour cherries, fruity and plump palate with well-integrated tannins. Serve at 59 to 61F.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Arriving ETA July:
Domaine du Chateau de Grand Pre Morgon T Rex, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($34.95) $29 pre-arrival special
Importer Note “100% Gamay from 50 year old vines planted in decomposed rock and crumbly schist soil. The yields average 35 to 40 hl/ha. The grapes are hand harvested over several passages in the vineyard. Maceration for 10 to 15 days in temperature-controlled tanks, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, no added sulfite during the vinification. The wine is aged on its lees for 3 to 4 months in 3 to 5 year old barrels from Meursault. A structured and balanced red with aromas of ripe red fruits and powerful tannins. The cellaring potential is 3 to 9 years and the wine deserves a little aging to reach its peak. Serve at 59 to 61F.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
Don’t want to stop in?
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
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.)
#503-223-6002
Don’t want to stop in?
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
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.)
#503-223-6002
Don’t Forget
Our 2014 Produttori Subscriber Special Ends Monday Night
“The Most Consistently Outstanding Set of Riservas
I Can Remember Tasting”
The Produttori del Barbaresco is revered for producing classically-styled Barbaresco and Riservas of uncompromising quality and transparency. It’s a miracle that these wines are still affordable and available, especially when compared to the skyrocketing prices of Barolo. You’d be hard-pressed to find such consistent quality and complexity out of such an extensive range of single-vineyard Nebbiolos anywhere else.
We’re offering exclusive discounts to you, our email subscribers, on a number of the outstanding 2014 Riservas—some of the best wines the Produttori has ever made. These already outstanding values are even better through the end of the weekend (or we sell out). Piedmont fans: stock up!
“The 2014 Riservas are dark, potent and built for aging… In many years, this range includes one or two slight underperformers, but in 2014, the wines are superb across the board. Some will drink well earlier than others, of course, but this is one of the most consistently outstanding set of Riservas I can remember tasting here.” –Antonio Galloni
Ends Monday, April 13th at 6 PM Pacific
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 1.5L ($199.95) Was $149, Now $125 Subscriber Special, 9 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “One of the many highlights in this range, the Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is superb. A big enrobing wine, the Montestefano wraps around the palate with stunning depth. Today, the Montestefano is utterly embryonic, and yet it exudes depth, resonance and pure class. The Montestefano is one of the more complete wines in the range because of the way it deftly balances fruit intensity and structure. Readers will have to be patient, though.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Pure cherry flavors permeate the rich flesh of this red, backed by vibrant acidity and fine tannins. Eucalyptus, earth and tar elements add depth as this cruises to a lingering finish. Fine intensity. Best from 2021 through 2040.—B.S.”
We’re offering exclusive discounts to you, our email subscribers, on a number of the outstanding 2014 Riservas—some of the best wines the Produttori has ever made. These already outstanding values are even better through the end of the weekend (or we sell out). Piedmont fans: stock up!
“The 2014 Riservas are dark, potent and built for aging… In many years, this range includes one or two slight underperformers, but in 2014, the wines are superb across the board. Some will drink well earlier than others, of course, but this is one of the most consistently outstanding set of Riservas I can remember tasting here.” –Antonio Galloni
Ends Monday, April 13th at 6 PM Pacific
Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 1.5L ($199.95) Was $149, Now $125 Subscriber Special, 9 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “One of the many highlights in this range, the Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is superb. A big enrobing wine, the Montestefano wraps around the palate with stunning depth. Today, the Montestefano is utterly embryonic, and yet it exudes depth, resonance and pure class. The Montestefano is one of the more complete wines in the range because of the way it deftly balances fruit intensity and structure. Readers will have to be patient, though.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Pure cherry flavors permeate the rich flesh of this red, backed by vibrant acidity and fine tannins. Eucalyptus, earth and tar elements add depth as this cruises to a lingering finish. Fine intensity. Best from 2021 through 2040.—B.S.”
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Muncagota’, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 750ML ($79.95) Was $59, Now $54.50 Subscriber Special, 30 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is another of the overachievers in this range. White pepper, bright red cherry, floral notes and mint cut through the fruit in this beautifully vivid, crystalline Barbaresco. There is a level of energy, drive and overall nuance in the 2014 I don’t recall having seen in the past. The 2014 is a terrific Muncagota.”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is beautifully polished and bright, with dark berry fruit, ripe cherry, crushed stone and pressed flowers. The wine is compact and firm, and you feel the tannins and power in the mouth. The Muncagota remains slightly more closed in terms of the bouquet, but this will open up with some time.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Lean and taut, this reveals mint, menthol, licorice, orange peel and subtle cherry flavors, all underscored by assertive tannins and lively acidity. An austere style, this will need time to come around. Best from 2023 through 2042.—B.S.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $66
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 750ML ($89.95) Was $65, Now $58 Subscriber Special, 12 bottles in stock now
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 1.5L ($189.95) Was $139, Now $133 Subscriber Special, 16 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is bright and piercing, as it so often is, and yet it also has more than enough fruit to fill out its mid-weight, energetic frame. Pine, mint, crushed rocks and sweet red plum build into the huge, piercing finish. The Ovello is another wine in this range that demands patience. Even in the early going it is super impressive. The 2014 s an unusually dense, packed Ovello. It should be terrific in another few years’ time.”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 95 points “Always one of my favorite wines from Produttori del Barbaresco, the 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello lays out a broad and soft mouthfeel, with tannins that have already been polished and integrated thanks to ample time in the bottle already. It’s safe to say that this Ovello cru loyally demonstrates the level of richness and textural softness that this site is known for. The bouquet is redolent of bright berry fruit with cherry, blackberry and plum. Also, the 2014 vintage was a warm one at the end of the growing season, and you taste a little bit of that ripeness here too.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Balsamic aromas of menthol, wild thyme and juniper complement the black cherry core of this muscular red, with dense tannins lending support. Though a bit more severe now than its peers, this is balanced overall and will age well. Best from 2022 through 2042.—B.S”
Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 1.5L ($189.95) Was $139, Now $133 Subscriber Special, 16 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is bright and piercing, as it so often is, and yet it also has more than enough fruit to fill out its mid-weight, energetic frame. Pine, mint, crushed rocks and sweet red plum build into the huge, piercing finish. The Ovello is another wine in this range that demands patience. Even in the early going it is super impressive. The 2014 s an unusually dense, packed Ovello. It should be terrific in another few years’ time.”
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 95 points “Always one of my favorite wines from Produttori del Barbaresco, the 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello lays out a broad and soft mouthfeel, with tannins that have already been polished and integrated thanks to ample time in the bottle already. It’s safe to say that this Ovello cru loyally demonstrates the level of richness and textural softness that this site is known for. The bouquet is redolent of bright berry fruit with cherry, blackberry and plum. Also, the 2014 vintage was a warm one at the end of the growing season, and you taste a little bit of that ripeness here too.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Balsamic aromas of menthol, wild thyme and juniper complement the black cherry core of this muscular red, with dense tannins lending support. Though a bit more severe now than its peers, this is balanced overall and will age well. Best from 2022 through 2042.—B.S”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
The average listed price is $66
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
The average listed price is $66
Produttori del Barbaresco Pora, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 750ML ($79.95) Was $59, Now $49 Subscriber Special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a dark, sensual beauty. Deeply spiced and balsamic, with tremendous textural richness, the Pora is utterly beguiling. I can’t remember a Pora with this much depth, textural resonance and brooding intensity. The 2014 needs at least a few years to be at its best, but it is superb even in the early going. I won’t be surprised if the 2014 turns out to be better than this note suggests.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Round and supple, exuding cherry, berry, licorice, eucalyptus and tar flavors. Harmonious and well-built, with a long aftertaste of menthol. Best from 2021 through 2038.—B.S.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a dark, sensual beauty. Deeply spiced and balsamic, with tremendous textural richness, the Pora is utterly beguiling. I can’t remember a Pora with this much depth, textural resonance and brooding intensity. The 2014 needs at least a few years to be at its best, but it is superb even in the early going. I won’t be surprised if the 2014 turns out to be better than this note suggests.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Round and supple, exuding cherry, berry, licorice, eucalyptus and tar flavors. Harmonious and well-built, with a long aftertaste of menthol. Best from 2021 through 2038.—B.S.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average listed price is $66
Produttori del Barbaresco Rio Sordo, Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014 750ML ($79.95) Was $65, Now $59 Subscriber Special, 28 bottles in stock now
Monica Larner – Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo represents a jump forward in structure compared to the other three vineyards (Pora, Pajè and Ovello) that were tasted before this wine. The Riserva Rio Sordo shows a dark and solid personality, with a tight core of black fruit that will relax and unwind with more bottle aging in the cellar. It is also slightly sharper and more focused in terms of mouthfeel, with the kind of tannic tightness you always get with young Nebbiolo in the cooler vintages such as 2014. Barbaresco lovers should jot this one down.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “This red combines a rich, fleshy texture that verges on chewy with a firm structure and cherry, menthol, licorice, spice and mineral flavors. Dense, revealing tension and dusty tannins on the long finish. Shows terrific energy. Best from 2022 through 2042.—B.S.”
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo is the most open-knit and easygoing of these Riservas. Creamy and giving, the Rio Sordo is one of the more available of the Riservas in the early going, an impression that is reinforced by its mid-weight structure. Perfumed floral notes add lift to the dark, red-toned fruit.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Trending
Yeasty and floral, like a baked pear tart with a wildflower honey drizzle. Dry yet sleek.
Loredan Gasparini Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG, Veneto NV 750ML ($17.95) $13.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 90 points “Delicious combination of pear and biscuit on the palate with medium body, bright acidity and a fresh finish. Fresh and satisfying. A different style of Prosecco that you should check out.”
Decanter 89 points “Loredan Gasparini’s Asolo Prosecco Superiore is grown on mineral soils that give the wine structure. This wine uses wild yeasts, providing a beautiful range of flavours; elderflower and peaches are supported by a lovely, soft mousse.”
Loredan Gasparini Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG, Veneto NV 750ML ($17.95) $13.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
James Suckling 90 points “Delicious combination of pear and biscuit on the palate with medium body, bright acidity and a fresh finish. Fresh and satisfying. A different style of Prosecco that you should check out.”
Decanter 89 points “Loredan Gasparini’s Asolo Prosecco Superiore is grown on mineral soils that give the wine structure. This wine uses wild yeasts, providing a beautiful range of flavours; elderflower and peaches are supported by a lovely, soft mousse.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Wonderful, balanced California Chard for a steal.
Varner El Camino Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2016 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Varner El Camino Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2016 750ML ($299.95) $249 special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 92 points “Bob and Jim Varner’s 2016 Chardonnay is terrific. Orchard fruit, white flowers, mint, tangerine oil and light tropical overtones infuse the 2016 with notable character. Los Alamos Chardonnays tend to be a bit more lifted, but there is plenty of depth here. Most of the wine was aged in large foudre, which further helps in retaining energy.”
Polaner Selections note “The wine was fermented 100% in stainless steel then aged in a combination of new Francois Freres puncheons (26%) for 6 months and the remainder (74%) in stainless steel on the lees with no malolactic fermentation.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $23
The average price nationally is $23
A great value in Bandol rosé.
Domaine Bunan Moulin des Costes Bandol Rose, Provence 2018 750ML ($27.95) Was $24, Now $21.90 special, 21 bottles in stock now
“Hints of crushed stone and lime zest appear on the nose of the 2018 Bandol Rose Moulin des Costes, a blend of 50% Cinsault, 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Grenache. Although only light to medium-bodied, it’s pleasantly silky in texture, with ample length on the refined, elegant finish.” –Wine Advocate
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $27
An Andy Staff Pick, this never fails to delight.
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie l’Alchimiste, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie l’Alchimiste, Beaujolais 2018 1.5L ($79.95) $66 special, 5 magnums in stock now
No reviews for the 2018 vintage. Most recent review provided for reference.
Josh Raynolds 93 points “[2016 Vintage] Deep bright-rimmed ruby. Intense, mineral-accented red/dark berry scents pick up a sexy floral quality with air. Concentrated yet lively in the mouth, offering juicy, spice-tinged black raspberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors that show excellent clarity and back-end thrust. A touch of candied licorice appears on the gently tannic finish, which lingers with outstanding, mineral-driven tenacity.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
New Wines From Cayuse’s Christophe Baron
Hors Catagorie/Horsepower/No Girls
Hors Catagorie/Horsepower/No Girls
We don’t have to say too much, other than we’ve got some of the new from Cayuse’s Christophe Baron on offer. From his new pinnacle project, Hors Catagorie, to stalwarts like Horsepower and No Girls, these are as spectacular as always. The wines always disappear fast, so if you like what you see, hop on over to our webstore and make sure that you snag them now!
Arriving Friday:
Only two bottles available
Christophe Baron Hors Categorie Syrah, Walla Walla 2016 750ML ($379.95) $325 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2016 Syrah is almost shy on the nose, compact and focused, waiting to hit the palate with red fruit that is mineral and floral at the same time. The real magic happens when you taste the wine. It’s like watching a jumbo jet land for the first time and wondering how something so massive could literally appear weightless as it lands. The wine glides across the palate effortlessly with focus and precision and evolves with layers, showing depth and breadth in an instant. The Syrah quietly explodes with textural appeal and peppercorn notes that linger and linger, turning to soft smoky meat with blackberry jus. Long and drawn out, the finish is long and contemplative, continuing to wind down an ever-changing path with tones of mineral tension. I end up staring at the glass in amazement, thinking, “How did they do this with such young vines?” and was able to utter two words which I will spare our readers. The finish continues to be pulled longer and longer as if it were made of taffy. Only 1,000 bottles were produced and will be packaged into 500 two-pack cases for the serious collector. Absolutely stunning, bravo!”
Jeb Dunnuck 99 points “The 2016 Syrah is from an up and coming terroir located on the north fork of the Walla Walla River, in Oregon, and comes from two steep hillside slopes on broken basalt soils. Not destemmed and brought up in all neutral demi-muids, it has a Côte Brune-like style in its smoked red and black fruits, crushed violets, cold fireplace, bloody meats, and ground pepper aromas and flavors. Concentrated, medium to full-bodied, incredibly layered, and pure, it has an ultra-classic, mineral-laced Syrah style that’s just magical to behold. Give bottles 2-4 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 10-15.”
Wine Enthusiast 98 points “Cellar Selection. This project from Christophe Baron comes from a newly planted area of the valley on the north fork of the Walla Walla River. Brooding, tightly wound aromas of firepit, black pepper, black olive and ham hock are followed by an action-packed and layered palate. Despite this power, there’s a sense of elegance that provides a fascinating contrast. Lingering floral and saline notes captivate on the long finish. Best after 2025.”
Arriving Friday:
Only two bottles available
Christophe Baron Hors Categorie Syrah, Walla Walla 2016 750ML ($379.95) $325 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 99 points “The 2016 Syrah is almost shy on the nose, compact and focused, waiting to hit the palate with red fruit that is mineral and floral at the same time. The real magic happens when you taste the wine. It’s like watching a jumbo jet land for the first time and wondering how something so massive could literally appear weightless as it lands. The wine glides across the palate effortlessly with focus and precision and evolves with layers, showing depth and breadth in an instant. The Syrah quietly explodes with textural appeal and peppercorn notes that linger and linger, turning to soft smoky meat with blackberry jus. Long and drawn out, the finish is long and contemplative, continuing to wind down an ever-changing path with tones of mineral tension. I end up staring at the glass in amazement, thinking, “How did they do this with such young vines?” and was able to utter two words which I will spare our readers. The finish continues to be pulled longer and longer as if it were made of taffy. Only 1,000 bottles were produced and will be packaged into 500 two-pack cases for the serious collector. Absolutely stunning, bravo!”
Jeb Dunnuck 99 points “The 2016 Syrah is from an up and coming terroir located on the north fork of the Walla Walla River, in Oregon, and comes from two steep hillside slopes on broken basalt soils. Not destemmed and brought up in all neutral demi-muids, it has a Côte Brune-like style in its smoked red and black fruits, crushed violets, cold fireplace, bloody meats, and ground pepper aromas and flavors. Concentrated, medium to full-bodied, incredibly layered, and pure, it has an ultra-classic, mineral-laced Syrah style that’s just magical to behold. Give bottles 2-4 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 10-15.”
Wine Enthusiast 98 points “Cellar Selection. This project from Christophe Baron comes from a newly planted area of the valley on the north fork of the Walla Walla River. Brooding, tightly wound aromas of firepit, black pepper, black olive and ham hock are followed by an action-packed and layered palate. Despite this power, there’s a sense of elegance that provides a fascinating contrast. Lingering floral and saline notes captivate on the long finish. Best after 2025.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $349
The next best price is $349
Only six bottles available
Horsepower Vineyards ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($219.95) $169 pre-arrival special
No reviews for the 2017 vintage. 2016 reviews provided for reference:
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “From a vineyard planted in 2013, the 2016 Syrah High Contrast saw loads of stems and mostly neutral barrels. This thrilling wine has a Chave Hermitage-like purity and class as well as gorgeous notes of cassis, black raspberries, smoked earth, and graphite. It’s deep, pure and layered, incredibly layered, pure, and long, with a finish that won’t quit. This isn’t for those looking for an inky, massive wine, but it’s pure class, complete, amazingly long, and elegant. Give bottles a few years in the cellar and it’s going to shine for 15-20 years.”
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. This is a new addition to the lineup, with the vineyard located at the edge of this area’s cobblestone soils. The aromas are locked up out of the gate, with notes of soot, potpourri, smoked meat, black pepper, green olive and funk. The palate is intense and layered, while retaining an ethereal sense of lightness and balance, with a texture that sets it apart from its littermates from this vintage. A rich savory and flower-filled finish that you can taste literally minutes later is the capstone. It’s a knockout, and not a TKO. Not bad for fourth leaf fruit. Best after 2025, with a good life beyond that.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2016 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard initially wafts from the glass with a rocky dustiness, then reveals an elegant black and red-fruited core of aromas, oozing with seductively bright and focused black raspberry notes, followed by red and purple flowers, a line of stemminess and dried herbs de Provence on the lifted and aromatically complex nose. Medium-bodied on the palate, the wine is ethereal at first, then compounds in the mouth with a mineral tension, the fruit turning a touch tarter across the mid-palate, showing incredible precision and balance. The wine continues to evolve with a fantastic expression and long, drawn-out finish for this young vineyard that was just planted in 2013. Only 335 cases were produced. If you can afford it and you can find it, buy it!”
Horsepower Vineyards ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($219.95) $169 pre-arrival special
No reviews for the 2017 vintage. 2016 reviews provided for reference:
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “From a vineyard planted in 2013, the 2016 Syrah High Contrast saw loads of stems and mostly neutral barrels. This thrilling wine has a Chave Hermitage-like purity and class as well as gorgeous notes of cassis, black raspberries, smoked earth, and graphite. It’s deep, pure and layered, incredibly layered, pure, and long, with a finish that won’t quit. This isn’t for those looking for an inky, massive wine, but it’s pure class, complete, amazingly long, and elegant. Give bottles a few years in the cellar and it’s going to shine for 15-20 years.”
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. This is a new addition to the lineup, with the vineyard located at the edge of this area’s cobblestone soils. The aromas are locked up out of the gate, with notes of soot, potpourri, smoked meat, black pepper, green olive and funk. The palate is intense and layered, while retaining an ethereal sense of lightness and balance, with a texture that sets it apart from its littermates from this vintage. A rich savory and flower-filled finish that you can taste literally minutes later is the capstone. It’s a knockout, and not a TKO. Not bad for fourth leaf fruit. Best after 2025, with a good life beyond that.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2016 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard initially wafts from the glass with a rocky dustiness, then reveals an elegant black and red-fruited core of aromas, oozing with seductively bright and focused black raspberry notes, followed by red and purple flowers, a line of stemminess and dried herbs de Provence on the lifted and aromatically complex nose. Medium-bodied on the palate, the wine is ethereal at first, then compounds in the mouth with a mineral tension, the fruit turning a touch tarter across the mid-palate, showing incredible precision and balance. The wine continues to evolve with a fantastic expression and long, drawn-out finish for this young vineyard that was just planted in 2013. Only 335 cases were produced. If you can afford it and you can find it, buy it!”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $250
The next best price is $250
Only twelve bottles available
Horsepower Vineyards ‘The Tribe Vineyard’ Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2017 750ML ($219.95) $169 pre-arrival special
No reviews for the 2017 vintage. 2016 reviews provided for reference:
Wine Enthusiast 98 points “Cellar Selection. Aromas of ash, black pepper, rock salt, black olive, wet stone, potpourri and fresh tobacco lead to outrageously expressive, savory flavors on the palate. There is intensity to the flavors, but still a profound sense of elegance and balance. The finish lingers on accents of potpourri and smoked meat. Hold until at least 2025.”
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “The 2016 Syrah The Tribe is largely in the same mold with a gamy, meaty, backward profile. Smoked meats, earthy dark fruits, ground pepper, and wood smoke are all present in this medium to full-bodied, concentrated Syrah that’s going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 15-20 years.”
James Suckling 96 points “This has such impressive, silky black fruit with interwoven spices and subtle, meaty nuances. The intensity of fruit is dialed-up in this wine. There’s a very pure, bright fruit core here that pushes out of the mid-palate with a lot of energy and stony, graphite-like notes. This has a wealth of dark berries on offer. Such length and balance. Planted at 8,500 vines per hectare. Drink or hold. Best from 2022.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Only six bottles available
No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Grenache, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Editor’s Choice. Aromas of potpourri, white pepper, charcuterie, crushed flowers, soot and raspberry captivate on the nose. Exuberant and outrageously flavorful on the palate, intense accents of smoked meat and earth arise alongside the fruit. An extremely long finish of earth and flowers completes it.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “Not yet released when I tasted it, the 2016 Grenache la Paciencia Vineyard has a nose that opens with a bang, boasting majestic and explosive notes of dusty red fruit—raspberries, cherries and spiced red plum—with a rocky core of minerality. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, the wine expresses the semi-carbonic notes of sweet red fruit and dusty red flower petals with iron and lava rocks. It has expressive and silky tannins that linger on the long, ethereal finish. I am impressed! This is delicious juice and is a must-have for serious collectors. Only 338 cases made.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2016 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard sports a translucent ruby color as well as a terrific bouquet of black cherries, strawberries, cold fireplace, white flowers, and spice. Seamless, elegant, and vibrant, with great tension, it’s a thrilling, Rayas look-alike to drink over the coming 10-15 years. 338 cases.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $125
The next best price is $125
Only six bottles available
No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 97 points “Not yet released when I tasted it, the nose of the 2016 Syrah la Paciencia Vineyard immediately reminds me of Côte-Rôtie with the ever-present floral lift and mineral tension. The nose is silky and elegant, with a focus on quality and precision that is instantly recognizable, with hints of black truffle, orange peel and a soft smokiness to the expression. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, the wine’s mineral tension evolves into a petrichor note reminiscent of the first rain of the season over sun-baked earth. The palate continues to grow with red and dark fruits that become more expressive with each passing moment. This Syrah has an extraordinary length and texture for such a graceful wine, and the aftertaste lingers for days. This is the bottling that you will want to hide away in your cellar. Only 331 cases were made.”
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2016 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard was fermented in concrete (60-70% stems) and brought up in used demi-muid. Blackberries, smoked earth, cured meats, violets, and orange rind notes all flow to a beautiful, seamless, thrillingly refined effort that reminds me of a top traditional Côte Rôtie. 331 cases.”
James Suckling 96 points “This has ethereal purity and depth with very fragrant, floral and red-fruited notes on the palate. Some berry pastry and a meaty, fluid edge, too. The palate has a super fine texture with a wealth of rich red fruit. Lacy and elegant. Hauntingly long finish. Drink or hold.”
No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 97 points “Not yet released when I tasted it, the nose of the 2016 Syrah la Paciencia Vineyard immediately reminds me of Côte-Rôtie with the ever-present floral lift and mineral tension. The nose is silky and elegant, with a focus on quality and precision that is instantly recognizable, with hints of black truffle, orange peel and a soft smokiness to the expression. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, the wine’s mineral tension evolves into a petrichor note reminiscent of the first rain of the season over sun-baked earth. The palate continues to grow with red and dark fruits that become more expressive with each passing moment. This Syrah has an extraordinary length and texture for such a graceful wine, and the aftertaste lingers for days. This is the bottling that you will want to hide away in your cellar. Only 331 cases were made.”
Jeb Dunnuck 96 points “The 2016 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard was fermented in concrete (60-70% stems) and brought up in used demi-muid. Blackberries, smoked earth, cured meats, violets, and orange rind notes all flow to a beautiful, seamless, thrillingly refined effort that reminds me of a top traditional Côte Rôtie. 331 cases.”
James Suckling 96 points “This has ethereal purity and depth with very fragrant, floral and red-fruited notes on the palate. Some berry pastry and a meaty, fluid edge, too. The palate has a super fine texture with a wealth of rich red fruit. Lacy and elegant. Hauntingly long finish. Drink or hold.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $125
The next best price is $125
Only six bottles available
No Girls La Placiencia Vineyard Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley 2016 750ML ($149.95) $119 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “Similarly colored, the 2016 Tempranillo La Paciencia Vineyard offers an exotic bouquet of black cherries, violets, chocolate, tobacco, smoke, and candied orange rind. It’s deep, beautiful, savory, and full-bodied, with a thrilling texture. It’s another incredibly elegant, singular wine from this estate. 321 cases.”
Wine Advocate 94+ points “Not yet released when I tasted it in November 2019, the 2016 Tempranillo la Paciencia has a dusty core of dark fruit on the nose, with blackberry, wild strawberry and hints of soft leather and wet river rock. In the mouth, the wine is medium to full-bodied and shows a subtle spiciness that persists through to the finish, with building and structuring tannins. It ends with a long, mineral finish and lingering tannins that make this wine ready for food. 321 cases produced.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $125
The next best price is $125
Collector’s Corner
New Older Wines from Domaine Gouges
Domaine Henri Gouges is a legendary name in Burgundy and we’re excited to the acquisition of a treasure trove of back-vintage bottles. The new releases the estate have put out are great and in stock now but this assortment of older bottles is almost hard to believe.
We’re looking at perfectly cellared bottles from the 2002-2013 vintages, at prices that are much closer to current releases than you’d expect given the quality of the wines and their age. We have a broad assortment of these bottles—perfect picks for to get a head start on cellaring (or in a few cases, perfect picks for your cellar now.
Henri Gouges, who founded the venerable estate, was one of the first in Burgundy to estate bottle—at the time the winery was founded most just sold grapes or wine to negociants. He also was instrumental in creating the AOC system in Burgundy and help to get a vineyard classification worked out. The estate is based in Nuits, with holdings in most of the major crus and an incredible standard of quality across the board. The current generation, Christian and Pierre (grandsons of Henri) are making some of the finest wines in the estate’s history.
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