Weekend VinopolPick – 10-8-16

Champagne Special Preview: New Dom Perignon Release; Jump Start October Sale: Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova; California Dreaming: Newly Arrived Classics from Lokoya, Opus One, Sine Qua Non, Togni, Verite & more!; New Cayuse Arrivals; Kapcsandy Wines  – Just Arrived!; New October Sales: Cadence & more!; Bergstrom: New Score from Wine Spectator; Just In: Poe – Rare California Wines; Burgundy Top-Up: 2009 Hudelot-Noellat; Domaine Costal Chablis: Bernard Raveneau & Jean Collet Project – Arriving Friday; Fritz Haag – Wine & Spirits Top Mosel Estate of 2016; Domaine Guiberteau: New Offer Arriving in November; Champagne Specials: Great Growers & Party Pack Picks; October Sale Recap – 33 Wines and Counting!; Rare Treasure: Sylvain Cathiard Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru 2009

Champagne Specials Preview:

New Dom Perignon Release

Michael Riedel Limited Edition

Arriving Friday October 14th

Dom Perignon Michael Riedel Limited Edition Brut 2006 750ML ($199.95) $149 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2006 Dom Pérignon is a beautifully balanced, harmonious Dom Pérignon that strikes an incredibly appealing stylistic middle ground. Rich, voluptuous and creamy, the 2006 shows off fabulous intensity in a style that brings together the ripeness of 2002 with the greater sense of verve and overall freshness that is such a signature of the 2004. Bass notes and a feeling of phenolic grip on the finish recall the 2003, as the Pinot Noir is particularly expressive today. After an irregular summer that saw elevated temperatures in July followed by cooler, damp conditions in August, more favorable weather returned in September, pushing maturation ahead and leading to a long, protracted harvest. The 2006 falls into the family of riper, more voluptuous Dom Pérignons, but without veering into the level of opulence seen in vintages such as 2002.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The 2006 Dom Pérignon comes from a very rich vintage with an early ripeness that brought a lot of aromatic maturity. The white-golden prestige cuvée contains a bit more Chardonnay than Pinot Noir and opens with a deep and seductive, pretty accessible nose with intense yet fresh fruit aromas of pineapples, with peaches and tangerines. Lively and elegant on the palate, this is a full-bodied, unusually aromatic and fruity DP with a long and tension-filled expression.”
Richard Juhlin 94(97) points (eng)  ‘It’s not often you fall backwards when a wine is first launched on the market. This time both me and my friends, who got to try this jewel at my champagne bar, fell in love instantly. It is all here so beautifully orchestrated in this incredibly well-balanced and flowing rich symphony. It is so voluptuously charming and welcoming immediately, but at the same time so complex that the interest in what you will discover in the next gulp never ceases. Here are all the pillars that I perceive a Dom Pérignon should have. A gigantic large and intense aroma, a silk caressing structure and a dazzling grand finale. Notes from the sea, roasted nuts, coffee, brioche, tropical green fruits, stone fruit, green apples, sweet orange citrus, gunpowder, nougat, mushroom cream and black truffle are all there like a perfectly tailored tuxedo. Love at first sight.’

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $169.95

From more Champagne Specials, keep on reading!

Jump Start October Sale

One Week Only – Ends October 15th!

Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 750ML ($119.95) Was $79, Now $69
Wine Advocate 95 points “This is another fabulous wine from Giacomo Neri. The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is a deeply layered expression with bold tones of dark fruit that are softened and enhanced by spice, leather, tobacco and balsam herb. The wine is very beautiful and polished with slightly less depth and complexity compared the outstanding (100 point) vintage that precedes it. Despite the vintage variation, this is a wine of enormous pedigree and importance. It is generous and confident with a presentation that offers purity, intensity and persistence.”
James Suckling 94 points “A red with earthy, meaty, salty, ripe fruit aromas and flavors. Full body with round, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. So much richness and depth. Needs at least a year or two to come together.”
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is dark, sensual and inviting, with lovely textural depth and fine balance. Macerated dark cherry, plum, smoke, lavender and spice flesh out in a succulent, expressive Brunello that should drink well with minimal cellaring.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $90

Don’t miss the four new October sale wines below!

California Dreaming

Newly Arrived Classics – Limited Availability

cali-dreaming-spreadsheet

To shop online or to read the full reviews, visit our web store!

Cayuse New Arrivals

Cayuse Vineyards Flying Pig, Walla Walla Valley 2010 750ML ($179.95) $149 special, 3 bottles available
Robert Parker 96 points “Moving away from the Rhones-styled efforts and the most up-front and perfumed of the Bordeaux blends (just ahead of the Widowmaker), the 2010 Flying Pig is a Cabernet Franc-dominated blend that incorporates 37% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Sauvignon into the blend. Loaded with notions of cassis, dried flowers, saline-like minerality, exotic spice and damp earth, it flows onto the palate with a juicy, brilliantly focused profile, with a core of sweet fruit, full-bodied richness and no hard edges. Give it 3-4 years to fill out and enjoy it over the following decade. Drink 2017-2027.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $165

Cayuse Vineyards En Chamberlin Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2011 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 3 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 99 points “Dark and concentrated, this sends up complex aromas saturated with tar, asphalt, ink, steel, smoke and charred barbecue. It’s a beautiful wine, tight and textural, in perfect balance, with superb depth, precision and elegance. The most contemplative of a superb 2011 Cayuse lineup, this wine above all needs your full attention.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “Almost always the most wild and exotic, the 2011 Syrah En Chamberlin Vineyard doesn’t disappoint with its iron, peat moss, flowers and blackberry and currant-style fruit. Savory, medium to full-bodied, nicely structured and with notable structure, it should be at its best from 2018-2028.”

Cayuse Vineyards En Cerise Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley 2010 750ML ($159.95) $136 special, 3 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 98 points –Editors’ Choice–“The purity and potent, almost mystical aromas of the En Cerise Syrah conjure up flying carpet visions of purple and black fruits. The enticing aromatics have a citrusy lift, with orange peel and incense, like drinking a Persian rug. Amazingly complex, seamless, dense, and elegant, it’s a wine that never stops, as new flavors keep emerging the longer it breathes.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “Sleek, sensuous and focused, offering smoky green olive and black olive accents to the blackberry and tar flavors. The crunchy tannins provide grip on the open-weave finish. Drink now through 2020.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “Showing consistently from barrel and bottle, the thrilling 2010 Syrah En Cerise offers up a perfumed, wild array of ripe, meaty black cherries, soy, black olive, smoked herbs and river rock as well as a full-bodied, voluptuous and awesomely textured palate that carries its core of deep, concentrated fruit beautifully. Showing the classic Cayuse funk, as well as a complex, layered profile, it will benefit from short-term cellaring and evolve for 15 years or more. Drink 2015-2025.”


Shipping Season Has Arrived

Don’t miss out!

If you have wine being held for cooler weather, please contact us to arrange shipping at this time. Email or call today!

Kapcsandy

Just Arrived

Old World winemaking meets the land of opportunity. A young Lou Kapcsandy found political asylum in the United States as Hungary fell to the Soviets, and upon retirement he bought Beringer’s State Lane Vineyard. The Kapcsandy’s small, family-owned and -operated winery produces incredibly successful Napa reds from 100% estate-grown fruit. These wines exude harmony and balance, avoiding the heavily-extracted style common in this part of California. An honorable example of passion and care both in the vineyard and the cellar, the quality of these wines remains a testimony to Lou’s dedication.

Newly Arrived Kapcsandy Wines:

Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Grand-Vin Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 6 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 97-100 points “Another seamless, absolutely impeccable wine, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin saturates every corner of the palate. Magnificent, rich and unctuous yet with a classic sense of balance, the 2014 hits all the right notes. The flavors are deep, bold and incredibly intense throughout. Graphite, savory herbs, tobacco, menthol and licorice wrap around the voluptuous finish. At this early stage, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin is without question one of the most compelling wines I have tasted at Kapcsándy.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Estate Cuvee, Napa Valley 2011 750ML ($149.95) $119 special, 1 bottle available
Antonio Galloni 95+ points “The 2011 Estate Cuvee is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Sweet tobacco, wild flowers, mint, licorice, fennel and mint all meld together in a perfumed, gracious wine graced with stunning elegance and refinement. The 2011 is less obvious than either the 2010 or 2012, but it is more fragrant and perfumed. Clean, saline notes support the striking finish. The blend is 56% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc.”

Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Estate Cuvee, Napa Valley 2014 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 3 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 92-95 points “The 2014 Estate Cuvée is plump, juicy and relatively open-knit. Still raw and not fully formed, the 2014 needs time to fully come together, but it possesses remarkable density as well as power – almost too much power relative to the last few years. In this vintage, the Estate Cuvée has more Cabernet Sauvignon than the 2013, which is driving much of the wine’s breadth and structural profile.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Arriving This Month:

Kapcsandy Family Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard 2009 1.5L ($799.95) $699 pre-arrival special, 3 magnums available
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin opens with the most beguiling bouquet imaginable. Freshly cut flowers, mint, cinnamon and licorice all make an appearance as this vivid, beautifully delineated wine opens up in the glass. A model of total finesse and elegance, the 2009 wraps around the palate with what feels like endless layers of aromas and flavors. This totally seamless, polished Cabernet Sauvignon is virtually impossible to resist today, but it will be even better in another few years. The 2009 is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc.”

Kapcsandy Family Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard 2012 1.5L ($1,099.95) $899 pre-arrival special, 1 magnum available
Robert Parker 100 points “The perfect 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot aged 20 months in 100% new French oak. I think this is the third perfect score I’ve given to this wine, which is the essence of their vineyard, representing about 13% of the total production, or a mere 320 cases. The wine has a gorgeously opaque purple color and a beautiful nose of camphor, charcoal, blackberry and creme de cassis with licorice and truffle. It has unbelievable richness, great texture, tremendous finesse, precision and delineation. Very intense, full-bodied and super-pure, the length of the wine must be at least 50+ seconds. This is a gorgeous wine and one of the great superstars of this fabulous vintage. Drink it over the next 25-30 years.”

Kapcsandy Family Winery Endre Red Blend, Napa Valley 2010 1.5L ($219.95) $179 pre-arrival special, 6 magnums available
Robert Parker 94 points “The less expensive 2010 Endre (53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc aged in both French and Hungarian oak) is very Bordeaux like. Notes of bouquet garni, red and black currants and loamy soil are present in this medium-bodied wine that seems to be a faster evolving effort than its siblings. With excellent texture as well as an elegant style, and I use that word in a positive sense, it should drink well for 10-15 years.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $225

Kapcsandy Family Winery State Lane Vineyard Roberta’s Reserve, Napa Valley 2012 1.5L ($799.95) $699 pre-arrival special, 2 magnums available
Robert Parker 98 points “The 100% Merlot cuvée, the 2012 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard is, once again, flirting with perfection. A stunning nose of chocolate fudge intermixed with coffee bean, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit is intense, and followed by a full-bodied, gorgeously textured, opulent style of wine with stunning richness and purity. This is a brilliant wine and only represents 12% of the production, as only 300 cases were produced. It should drink well for 20-25 years.”
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2012 Roberta’s Reserve (Merlot) is another drop-dead gorgeous wine from Kapcsándy. Mocha, black cherries, plums, licorice and menthol meld together in an effortless, seamless wine endowed with sublime grace and class. Lovely savory and mineral notes support the pliant finish. What a gorgeous wine this is.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

New October Sales

We’ve cut prices on four additional wines

Our sale prices end October 31st

Cadence Winery Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain 2011 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $49, 18 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2011 Camerata is the Cabernet Sauvignon dominated blend that’s all from the estate Cara Mia Vineyard. Incorporating 7% each of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot and spending 23 months in roughly 50% new French oak, it’s a thrilling 2011 that makes the most of the vintage. Loaded with red and black currants, black cherry, dried spices, toast and graphite, this medium to full-bodied effort has a stacked mid-palate, masses of ripe tannin, and a savory, chewy finish. It will be better in another couple of years and be long lived.” WA

We were the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now we’re even lower!
The average price is $61

Cadence Winery Tapteil Vineyard Red, Columbia Valley 2012 750ML ($54.95) Was $44, Now $36, 36+ bottles available
Stephen Tanzer–Vinous 93+ points “Bright ruby-red. Red berries, cocoa powder and licorice on the nose. Tightly wound and youthfully imploded, conveying an impression of density without weight. Dark fruit and mineral flavors show terrific lift but are extremely backward in the early going. “Drink this with a big steak or hold it for four years,” suggests Ben Smith, adding that the 1999 Tapteil is great right now. Finishes with a firm tannic spine and outstanding subtle length and lift. This wine was aged in 40% new oak and was racked a total of just three times. Incidentally, I also got an early look at the 2013 Tapteil, and that impressively intense wine may need even longer aging than the ’12, due in part to its higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon.”
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2012 Tapteil Vineyard is elegant and complex, with lots of minerality in its red plums, blueberry and floral bouquet. Full-bodied, mouth filling, layered and pure, with lots of tannin on the mid-palate and finish, it needs short-term cellaring and will be another 2012 from Ben that will see its 20th birthday in fine form. The blend here is 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 19% Cabernet Franc, all of which spent 18 months in 40% new French oak.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $46

Chateau de Calavon Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Rose, Provence 2015 750ML ($21.95) Was $18, Now $14, 36+ bottles available
Winery note “[Translated] This Rose, made mostly from Grenache and Cinsault, is obtained by saignee and undergoes temperature-controlled fermentation.  It has discreet aromas of red fruits, fuller body and a long finish.  It is an ideal wine for light summer dishes.”

Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2010 750ML ($79.95) Was $69, Now $59, 24+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a big, powerful wine that is going to require at least a few years to soften. Dark and brooding, the Riserva shows the more masculine side of Sangiovese. Black cherry, plum, leather, spice and tobacco all sit on firm beams of acidity and tannin. There is a sense of explosive energy to the 2010 that I find quite appealing, but readers will have to be patient in order to experience the wine at its best.”

Sale Ends October 31st at midnight

To see our entire October sale, see below or search for “October Sale” on our shopping page!

Smokin’ Deal

Bergstrom’s Le Pre du Col

Rated ‘Hot Wine’ by Wine Spectator
Bergstrom Wines Le Pre Du Col Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2014 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 6 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points -Hot Wine- “Expressive, rich and complex, layering blueberry, cherry and plum flavors with savory spice and cedar notes. Fine, powdery tannins lift the long finish. Best from 2018 through 2024. 500 cases made.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!

Don’t miss the six other cuvees from Bergstrom or the 105 Oregon Pinot Noirs we carry – all searchable in our web store!

Fritz Haag – “Kings of the Brown Mountain”

Wine & Spirits Top Mosel Winery in 2016

The Fritz Haag estate and vineyards reach like vines into the annals of Mosel history. The municipality of Brauneberg, famous for its single-vineyard and Grand Cru Sonnenuhr wines, caught the attention of the Romans and Napoleon alike, and records of Fritz Haag exist since 1605. For many years the estate was managed by Wilhelm Haag, the first person ever to be named Gault Millau’s “Winemaker of the Year.” Since 2005, his sons Oliver and Thomas have taken the reins. Oliver manages the winery and does some work in the vineyards. Thomas manages the vineyards.

This is the middle Mosel, and Brauneberg’s vertiginous, south-facing slopes of brown slate soil drain well, producing wines of powerful character. Wines from the celebrated Sonnenuhr vineyard, surrounding the well-known sundial, abound with slate-like minerality, sweetness, and refreshing acidity, and they age for decades. The Brauneberger Juffer wines, by contrast, are lighter and more delicate, while the Brauneberger Kabinett comes from early-picked grapes from both the Juffer and Sonnenuhr vineyards. All of these wines exhibit the finesse and fruit-acidity balance that has kept Fritz Haag famous to this day.

We’re excited to be able to offer wines from this phenomenal Mosel producer, including two cuvees exclusive to Vinopolis that were recognized by Wine & Spirits.

Fritz Haag Wines Available Here Now

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Riesling Kabinett, Mosel 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2014 Brauneberger Riesling Kabinett offers the lovely, clear and delicate slate aroma intermixed with smoky and herbal aromas, but also lovely stone fruit as well. Pure, salty and piquant on the palate, this is a nicely concentrated, round and fruity Riesling with lightness, intensity and finesse, as well as a long and persistent finish. This is great terroir Riesling with salt and minerals. Extremely stimulating. Great, great Mosel Riesling from the grand cru terroirs of Brauneberg!”

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Trocken Grosses Gewachs, Mosel 2014 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 12 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2014 Brauneberg Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling trocken GG displays a lovey, pure and refreshing stony bouquet with lemon and bright fruit flavors, as well as very delicate slate aromas. This is a beautiful dry Riesling of great finesse and elegance that is light but intense in its mineral complexity. Very pure, salty and provided with a lovely intensity. The wine is bottled with 13% alcohol, but you don’t taste it. Very promising.”
Wine & Spirits “The Brauneberg Juffer Sonnenuhr GG – Grosses Gewächs, Germany’s equivalent of “grand cru” dry wines – can be intimidating in their power, but let the 2014 GG warm up in the glass and the acidity wends through the wine in a joyous way, making the concentrated fruit taste juicy and thirst quenching while it simultaneously embeds the earthy flavors into memory.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Fritz Haag Wine Arriving in December

Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2014 750ML ($49.95) $39 pre-arrival special
Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2014 Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese displays a stunningly clear, precise and mineral, flinty-flavored bouquet with lemon oil flavors on pure stones. This is a weightless, bright and finesse-full Auslese that tastes as piquant and refreshing in its bright citrus flavors as a candied grapefruit. Absolutely beautiful and elegant, and so long, stimulatingly pure and salty. Great, great Riesling!”
Wine & Spirits 93 points “While intense Auslese wines were a rarity in the cool, rain-plagued 2014 vintage, Haag’s Juffer Sonnenuhr Auslese is an exception, a powerful Riesling that broadcasts its flavors with bell0like clarity, notes of flowers, honey, herbs and jasmine tea swept along on silky sweetness.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Poe

Poe, a limited production, minimalist, cooler climate Cali producer, flies under the radar. We’ve managed to secure a few cases of the new releases. Though there’s limited press, Kerry Winslow of Grapelive has written a glowing review for the Manchester Ridge Pinot Noir while touching on some of the other bottlings, too. A not-to-miss producer… hesitate and you just might!

These limited-release wines just arrived:

Poe Ferrington Vineyard Chardonnay, Anderson Valley 2014 750ML ($47.95) $39 special
Winery note “The Ferrington vineyard was first planted in the late 1960s. It has a gentle south-facing slope, and has decomposed sandstone and clay soils with three to four feet of topsoil. Wineries sharing this site include William Selyem, Copain, Flowers, and Littorai. The Chardonnay from this site is fermented with native yeast in 30% new French oak, 70% neutral French oak. The wine is never stirred, and ages  on its fine lees for 12 months before bottling. The  2013 Chardonnay from this vineyard has beautiful purity and focus. The aromatics give way to white flowers, lemon oil, crushed rocks, and honey is enticing. There is beautiful bright acidity, and envelopes the palate with flavors of peach, apricot skin, pear, quince and citrus. High-toned floral and stone fruit notes add lift on the linear, lengthy finish.”

Poe Manchester Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay, Mendocino 2014 750ML ($41.95) $36.60 special
Winery note: Manchester Ridge sits at a 2,000 foot elevation above Anderson Valley. The vineyard is 400 feet above the fog line. The cool steady temperatures allows the grapes to maintain acidity.

Poe Manchester Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Mendocino 2014 750ML ($57.95) $49 special
Grapelive 93 points “The talented Samantha Sheehan’s POE wines are beautifully and artfully crafted wines from expressive cool climate sites, most in and around Anderson Valley and Mendocino County, except for her powerful Van der Camp Vineyard from Sonoma Mountain, her focus is classic Burgundy style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Her 2014 wines offer everything that is lovely and graceful about these varietals, they are richly flavored, layered with poise, silky tannins and vibrant acidity, these pure and mineral driven wines make it hard to pick a favorite in the lineup, but I decided to highlight this gorgeous Manchester Ridge Vineyard Pinot from Mendocino Ridge, just because, honestly all of them are great, this is a label to get into! The nose has flinty spices, wonderful rose petal florals and red fruit, it shows a pure ruby and garnet hue in the glass and the satiny medium body gives the mouth a sublime textural feel without heaviness, while still being alive and full of energy, this is a top drawer effort from Sheehan. Black cherry, tangy plum and a hint of blueberry flow across the palate with dusty/chalky stones, rose hip tea spice, hints of cedar and a touch of cinnamon and smoky vanilla linger with wild raspberry and tart currant on the lengthy finish. This pretty Pinot Noir is a real charmer and seduces completely with stylish and classic detail, it should prove a winner in the cellar too, and while I think the firmer Van der Camp might go longer in distance, this beauty will gain with age, drink from, well, now until 2029 at least!”

Poe Van der Kamp Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Mountain 2014 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special
Winery note: The Van der Kamp Vineyard lies at the very top of Sonoma Mountain, at a 1,400 foot elevation looking down on the town of Glen Ellen to the east and Bennett Valley to the northwest. It is possibly the oldest planting of Pinot Noir in the state, planted in the early 1950s. The Van der Kamp family handpicks the grapes at night, and we deliver it to the winery just before sunrise. Depending on the vintage, we ferment a percentage of the grapes whole cluster. We allow the fermentation to begin with native yeast, and gently foot tread the fermentation two to three times per day. The wine is aged on the lees for 12 months in 30% new French oak, 70% neutral French oak before being bottled unfined and unfiltered.

2009 Burgundy Top-Up

Back in stock from Alain Hudelot-Noellat:
Alain Hudelot-Noellat Bourgogne Rouge 2009 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 24 bottles available
Burghound: “Outstanding Top Value. A very fresh and expressive nose of red and black pinot fruit is nuanced by a discreet earthiness that continues onto the fleshy, delicious and surprisingly fine flavors that are really quite lovely for this level. Worth strong consideration and this could be enjoyed almost immediately.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

Domaine Costal Chablis

Washes Ashore Friday, October 14th

Winemaking in the Chardonnay kingdom of Chablis may avoid blending, but fortunately the winemakers themselves do occasionally join forces, as at Domaine Costal. Speaking of kings, it seems fairy tale-esque to imagine Chablis’ highest-regarded winemaker, Bernard Raveneau, working as consultant for wine importer/guru Kermit Lynch. Especially when the magic takes place chez Domaine Jean Collet, owners of Domaine Costal, whose organically-farmed vineyards and top-notch facilities serve as round table for this exciting triumvirate. Such a combination of talent and experience led to a very particular vinification, developed and overseen by Raveneau, which takes place in stainless steel cuve, large wooden foudre, and/or French oak barrel, depending on the wine and the vintage. Filtration and cold stabilization have no role here. The mission is to make indisputably fine, terroir-marked Chablis AOC (Les Truffieres) and Premier Cru Vaillons. The results raise the Chablis standard to Raveneau-level purity, without sacrificing affordability: Check our fabled low prices on Domaine Costal! Consider us your new Raveneau Chablis connection.

Domaine Costal Chablis Les Truffieres Vineyard, Burgundy 2014 750ML ($34.95) $21.90 pre-arrival special
Importer note “Wine is vinified in stainless steel and aged for another 10 months in stainless steel. Wine spends 3 months in demi-muid barrels (600-L). The wine is neither fined nor filtered. The Truffières vineyard is located in the commune of Villy, north of the town of Chablis. Limestone soil.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $25.99

Domaine Costal Vaillons, Chablis Premier Cru 2014 750ML ($44.95) $28 pre-arrival special
Importer note “Fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless tank. After racking, wine goes through malolactic fermentation in 1/3 stainless tank, 1/3 neutral barrel (228 L), and 1/3 used demi-muid barrel (600 L). Kimmeridgian limestone soil.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $32.99

We offer 42 Chablis (38 in-stock) for you to choose from – view the entire list on our web store

Our Current
Shipping Promos:

Welcome to the club, Colorado!

Along with Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California,
we now offer flat rate shipping to Colorado. Here’s the scoop:

Single orders of any quantity of wines qualify for the flat rate;
this does not apply to orders held in storage for any reason
or multiple orders consolidated into one shipment.
The flat reach for each state is, as follows:

-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California & Colorado for $25

Take Advantage of the Flat Rate!

Champagne Season is just around the corner…

…and we can hardly wait!

We’ve rounded up great deals on Champagnes just in the time for your holiday parties

Start your planning now to take advantage of our low, low prices!
Great Growers – Great Prices

Arriving in November

Round One

Pierre Peters Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut NV 750ML ($59.95) $48 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Fragrant, with floral and mineral accents, this vibrant blanc de blancs shows tropical hints of passion fruit and guava layered with salted almond and honey notes. Finely knit, featuring a lasting, delicate finish.”

Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Blanc de Blancs Cuvee Oenophile Premier Cru Extra Brut Non Dose, Champagne 2008 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Gilbert & Gaillard 94 points “Light yellow-gold. The nose displays splendid minerality then reveals pastry and almond notes. The palate shows seductive precision. Refined texture and mouth-filling freshness. Well-structured, strict and elegant. A stellar Champagne with a real sense of place.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2008 Oenophile Extra Brut offers an invitingly clear, bright and fresh bouquet of crisp apples, lemons, brazil nuts and grated hazelnuts along with some hints of herbs and flowers. On the palate this is a very elegant, firm, fresh and minerally accentuated Champagne of with a good grip and an animating citric finish. It is a crisp, elegant, refined and a really stimulating aperitif on a really high level. Beautifully structured and mineral, I just can’t get enough!” WA

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $62.98

Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($79.95) $59 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 94 points “An explosion of flavor, with ripe nectarine, lemon curd, clover honey, jasmine and grilled nut notes set on a firm, fine china–like frame. Best from 2017 through 2025.”
James Suckling 93 points “A blend of 70% pinot noir and 30% chardonnay, this has a complex and sophisticated nose that delivers peach fruits and citrus, plus some bolder yellow plum fruits too. The palate is assertive, energetic and concentrated with peach and nectarine flavors met with lemony acidity. Long, really powerful Champagne here. Drink now or age on cork for three or more years.”

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

Raphael & Vincent Bereche Crus Sélectionnés Montagne Brut 2004 750ML ($79.95) $66 pre-arrival special
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Pale gold. Vibrant, mineral-laced citrus and orchard fruits on the highly perfumed nose and in the mouth. Racy, focused and stony, with excellent clarity and spicy lift on the back half. Puts on weight with aeration while maintaining vivacity; finishes dry and very long, with a hint of iodine sneaking in late.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $70

Rene Geoffroy Rose de Saignee Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($69.95) $56 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 92 points “Vibrant acidity frames flavors of steeped white peach, raspberry, candied orange zest and smoke in this rich, expressive rosé. Well-balanced and lively, with a mouthwatering, spiced finish.”

This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $70

Rene Geoffroy ‘Les Houtrants Complantes’ Premier Cru Brut Nature, Champagne NV 750ML ($219.95) $188 pre-arrival special
VinopolNote: A field blend of all Champagne varietals allowed, including the obscure varietals of Fromenteau, Pinot Blanc, Petite Meslier and Petite Arbanne. These are old vines by necessity as the grapes are no longer permitted to be planted in the region. The base wines are stored in magnum until there are sufficient amounts to release a new cuvee.

Champagne Party Packs

Arriving in November

Case-12 Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Blanc de Blancs Cuis Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($479.95) $419 pre-arrival special (that’s only $34.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)

Case-6 Delamotte Blanc de Blancs Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($419.95) $319 pre-arrival special (that’s only $53.17/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 92 points “Light yellow. Mineral-tinged peach, melon and pear aromas display excellent clarity, picking up a subtle floral quality with aeration.  Supple and seamless on the palate, offering vivid honeydew and pit fruit flavors accented by a vibrant lemon zest quality.  Finishes very long, silky and precise, with an echo of juicy melon and strong mineral lift.”

Case-6 Delamotte Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($279.95) $219 pre-arrival special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Josh Raynolds–Vinous 91 points “Bright straw. Vibrant aromas of lemon pith, pear skin and honeysuckle, with a chalky topnote.  Dry, sharply focused lemon and lime flavors become deeper with air and pick up brioche and ginger nuances.  Firm, chewy and dry, finishing with very good clarity and stony persistence.”

Case-12 Aubry Premier Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($479.95) $399 pre-arrival special (that’s only $33.25/bottle!)

Case-12 Chartogne-Taillet Cuvee Sainte Anne Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($599.95) $436 pre-arrival special (that’s only $36.33/bottle!)

October Sales Recap

We’re up to 33 wines and going strong, don’t miss your opportunity for savings!

october-sales-recap-sprdsheet-33

To order online and read the full reviews, visit our web store:

Click the red “Shop Now” button and search for “October Sale” to see the full list!

Saving the Best for Last!

One of Burgundy’s Rare Treasures…

Sylvain Cathiard + Romanée-Saint-Vivant!!!

Arriving February 2017

Sylvain Cathiard Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru 2009 750ML ($2799.95) $2499 pre-arrival special, 6 bottles available
Burghound 94-97 points “A dazzlingly complex, perfumed and pure nose reveals a bit of wood influence yet remains strikingly elegant with its superb scope of spicy red berry fruit aromas that are followed by ripe, seductive and beautifully intense flavors that display marvelous depth and perfect balance on the sappy and naturally sweet finish of monumental length. This is a wine of indisputable class and a model of grace and understatement that should age effortlessly for 20 to 30 years.”

This is the only listing in the USA today!

…have a nice weekend!