In Today’s Newsletter:
First Offer: Dominus 2018
Collector’s Corner:
Rare Importer-Direct Henri Bonneau
Spring-Kickoff Champagne Sale
Arriving Friday, On Sale This Weekend
Just Arrived: New Montevertine Pergole Torte
A Trip to Ribeira Sacra: Spain’s Answer to Burgundy
VinopolPicks:
German Spatlese Rieslings from $35-$50
First Offer: Dominus 2018
Collector’s Corner:
Rare Importer-Direct Henri Bonneau
Spring Kickoff Champagne Sale
Arriving Friday, On Sale This Weekend
Aubry Brut Premier Cru NV 1.5L ($119.95) Was $85, Now $79 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 91 points “A creamy viscosity complements the texture of this harmonious version. An accessible crowd-pleaser, with lightly juicy acidity and delicate flavors of chopped almond, baked pear, saline and citrus. Disgorged January 2019. Drink now through 2022.”
Importer note “30% Pinot Meunier, 35% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 5% Arbanne, Petit Meslier and Fromenteau. Assemblage 50% 2016 base with 50% perpetual reserve back to 1998. Village/vyd Jouy-lès-Reims 1er Cru and Villedommange 1er Cru.”
Doyard ‘Les Lumieres’ Grand Cru Extra Brut 2008 750ML ($379.95) Was $289, Now $269 pre-arrival special
Only three bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 97 points “A spectacular wine, Doyard’s 2008 Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Lumières was disgorged in November 2018 with minimal dosage. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of orange oil, crisp yellow orchard fruit, fresh pastry, honeycomb and almond paste, it’s full-bodied, searingly concentrated and intense, with a racy spine of acidity, immense depth at the core and a long, electric finish. This cuvée is a blend of first-press juice: two-thirds Chardonnay from Mesnil-sur-Oger and one-third Pinot Noir from prime holdings in Aÿ.”
Doyard Oeil de Perdrix Grand Cru Brut Rose 2015 750ML ($119.95) Was $99, Now $79 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 93 points “The 2015 Doyard Oiel de Perdrix Extra Brut Millésime is composed from a cépages of seventy-five percent pinot noir and twenty-five percent chardonnay, with the pinot noir hailing from Aÿ and the chardonnay from Avize. The vins clairs do not go through malolactic and are given some extended aging in old Burgundy casks prior to bottling up for secondary fermentation in September of 2016. The wine was aged thirty-six months sur latte and disgorged in September of 2019, with a finishing dosage of three grams per liter. It is quite pale in color and offers up a beautiful bouquet of white cherry, peach, rye bread, chalky soil tones, dried flowers, discreet spice tones and just a whisper of oak. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and complex, with fine mid-palate depth and soil signature, bright acids, frothy mousse and a long, vibrant finish. This is a beautiful wine that is absolutely built for the table! 2020-2040+.”
Importer note “80% Pinot Noir from Ay and 20% Chardonnay from Avize.”
Hebrart Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $45 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 89 points ” The NV Brut Blanc de Blancs is bright and finely cut, with tons of energy and acids driving citrus, mineral and floral notes. This is an especially nervy style. I would prefer to see a bit more mid palate and overall body, but the Blanc de Blancs is a very pretty wine nonetheless. White pepper and crushed rocks add to the wine’s bright upper register. This release is based on 2016, with reserve wines from 2015 and 2014. Dosage is 8 grams per liter. Disgorged: November 18, 2019.”
Importer note “60% 2015, 25% 2014, 15% 2013.”
Disgorged Nov 18, 2019
Jacques Lassaigne Clos Sainte-Sophie Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature 2013 750ML ($199.95) Was $159, Now $129 pre-arrival special
Only six bottles available
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Oger Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut NV 750ML ($69.95) Was $55, Now $51.90 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 91 points “The current release of the Oger Grand Cru bottling from the Gimmonet family is from the base year of 2016 and includes reserve wines in the blend from the previous three vintages. The vins clairs go through full malo, are aged in stainless steel and the wine was disgorged in January of 2019 with a finishing dosage of six grams per liter. It offers up a deep and complex nose of pear, apple, plenty of smokiness, a fine base of limestone minerality and a touch of brioche. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, focused and nascently complex, with a good core, fine mineral drive, pinpoint bubbles and a long, well-balanced and still fairly youthful finish. This has broader shoulders and more mid-palate depth than the Cuis Premier Cru bottling above and really deserves a bit more bottle age to fully blossom. Good juice. 2022-2045.”
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Paradoxe Premier Cru Brut 2013 750ML ($79.95) Was $61.90, Now $55 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Gimonnet’s 2013 Brut Paradoxe really stands out in this range for its breadth and texture, but that is exactly what makes Pinot Noir in the Marne Valley so distinctive. Rich, ample and creamy, the Paradoxe exudes class from the very first taste. Sadly, this is the last vintage of the Paradoxe, as Didier Gimonnet ripped out the Pinot in favor of Chardonnay. Dosage is 5 grams per liter.”
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Cuvee Special Club Brut Millesime 2014 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Brut Spécial Club is a blend of fruit taken mostly from Cramant, with Chouilly and Cuis in supporting roles. The breadth and power of Cramant comes through loud and clear. Readers will find a potent, at times austere, Champagne that needs a bit of time in the cellar to soften. The Special Club does not offer the immediacy of the Chouilly or Cramant Special Clubs, but it has plenty of its own allure. Dried pear, spice, crushed flowers and chamomile are some of the aromas and flavors that linger on the imposing finish. Dosage is 4 grams per liter.”
Rene Geoffroy Meunier ‘Les Tiersaudes’ Brut Nature Millesime 2013 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $85 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2013 Brut Nature Les Tiersaudes, 100% Meunier, is fabulous. Soaring aromatics and creamy, beautifully layered fruit meld together in a deeply expressive Champagne that hits all the right notes. Refined, perfumed and exquisitely elegant, the Tiersaudes takes Meunier into a rarified expression of total finesse. Bright, saline notes punctuate the finish. I loved it.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93+ points “…derived entirely from Cumières Pinot Meunier, the 2013 Brut Nature Les Tiersaudes offers up a lovely bouquet of lime zest, smoky orchard fruit, red berries, bitter orange and spices. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, broad and vinous, with a youthfully frothy but incipiently fine mousse, excellent concentration at the core and a firm girdle of acidity, concluding with a long, dry and chalky finish. The expression of fruit is so pristine and the wine’s structure is so complete that I can understand why Geoffroy opted to release this as Brut Nature, though I would love to experience the additional plenitude that a disgorgement with one or two grams per liter dosage might possess.”
Terry Theise Note “[(+)] Another single-vineyard wine, this is entirely Meunier, grown on clay (not chalk), a 1-time-only bottling of just 1300 bottles. It’s alovely, almost delicate Meunier; caraway and rye-toast, not austere but pure and ascetic; detailed finish and high-register aromasof seemingly every sweet grain. As refined as Meunier can be. With a new deg. 4/2018 it remains a curiously expressive Meunier,though for whatever reason I found it more austere this time.”
Rene Geoffroy Rose de Saignee Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $51.90 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Disgorged in December 2019, the latest release of Geoffroy’s NV Brut Premier Cru Rosé de Saignée is derived from the 2015 vintage. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of peonies, mandarin orange and red berries, it’s full-bodied, rich and vinous, with a fleshy core of fruit, ripe acids and a gently phenolic finish. This characterful wine will be at its best at table.”
Savart Le Mont Benoit Premier Cru Extra Brut 2015 1.5L ($299.95) Was $279, Now $249 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2015 Extra Brut Premier Cru Le Mont Benoit was—like Savart’s Mont de Chrétiens—disgorged with only two grams per liter dosage in lieu of the normal three. It was showing especially well during my spring visit to the domaine, bursting with aromas of orange rind, crisp green apple, white flowers and almond paste, the prelude to a medium to full-bodied, layered and racy palate that’s long, penetrating and saline on the finish.”
Importer Note “Le Mont Benoit (made a household name by Emmanuel Brochet) is a single parcel in Villers-aux-Noeuds. Fred’s plot is 95% Pinot Noir, and 5% Chardonnay. The dosage is 3g/L.”
Savart Le Mont des Chretiens Premier Cru Extra Brut 2015 1.5L ($299.95) Was $279, Now $249 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “Produced exclusively from Chardonnay in an Ecueil lieu-dit better-known for Pinot Noir is the 2015 Extra-Brut Premier Cru Le Mont des Chrétiens, a small cuvée that’s vinified in 500-liter barrels, without malolactic, and it was disgorged a few months ago with only two grams per liter dosage—one gram less than Savart’s usual three for this bottling. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of lemon curd, white flowers, fresh melon, pastry cream and mandarin, it’s medium to full-bodied, deep and chalky, with a tensile profile despite the warm vintage, concluding with a mineral finish. Note that this bottling used to be named Dame de Coeur.”
Importer Note “Le Mont des Chrétiens is a lieu dit in the village Ecueil. The parcel is entirely of Chardonnay and Fred ferments and ages it in 500L barrels. The dosage is 3g/L. (Fred used to call this cuvée Dame de Coeur.)”
Savart Les Noues Ecueil Premier Cru Extra Brut 2016 750ML ($159.95) Was $135, Now $115 pre-arrival special
Vilmart & Cie Les Blanches Voies Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut 2009 750ML ($419.95) Was $329, Now $299 pre-arrival special
Only six bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 97 points “A new lieu-dit cuvée for Vilmart—derived from 60-year-old vines and vinified in barrel for 10 months—debuts with the 2009 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies, a wine that was disgorged in March 2017 with four grams per liter dosage. Wafting from the glass with aromas of crisp yellow pear, beeswax, white flowers, walnuts and brioche, it’s deep, full-bodied and searingly intense, with chalky structuring extract and an incisive spine of acidity. Long and penetrating, this has turned out brilliantly.”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Here in its first release, the 2009 Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is positively stellar. Old vines confer remarkable power, gravitas and explosive energy, and yet the 2009 preserves remarkable freshness to play off the resonant, deeply layered fruit. Intense graphite, mineral, citrus and floral notes add myriad shades of nuance to an expansive, powerful Blanc de Blancs that hits all the right notes. The purity and vibrancy of the flavors here is simply striking. The Blanches Voies gets one more year on the lees than the flagship Coeur de Cuvée and also a dosage of just 4 grams per liter, the lowest ever in the history of Vilmart. The 2009 is positively stellar. Don’t miss it! Production is just 2,400 bottles. Disgorged March 17.”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2009 Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is every bit as stunning as it was last year. The combination of the warm year and the natural richness conferred by these 70+- year-old vines yields a powerful, vinous Champagne with tremendous character, depth and the pedigree to drink well for many years. Laurent Champs gave the Blanc de Blancs 7 years on the cork, as opposed to the 6 that are customary for the Coeur de Cuvée. Dosage is 4 grams per liter. Disgorged: March, 2017.”
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier d’Or Premier Cru Brut 2015 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Disgorged in June 2019 with seven grams per liter dosage, the 2015 Brut Premier Cru Grand Cellier d’Or reveals inviting aromas of golden orchard fruit, pear, freshly baked bread and citrus zest. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, with racy acids, chalky extract and a long, penetrating finish, the vintage has imparted additional generosity, but the house’s chiseled, serious style remains very much intact.”
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier Rubis – Emotion Brut Rose 2012 750ML ($199.95) Was $151.90, Now $145 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “Disgorged in January 2018, Vilmart’s new 2012 Brut Emotion is showing beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of orange oil, red berries, yellow plums and toasted almonds. Medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, it’s racy and incisive, with chalky structuring extract and a pillowy mousse, concluding with a penetrating finish. It’s a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay from 45-year-old vines, vinified in barrels for 10 months without malolactic fermentation.”
Vilmart & Cie ‘Cuvee Rubis’ Brut Rose NV 750ML ($99.95) Was $75, Now $71.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Lovely aromas of lilac and star anise waft from the glass of this graceful rosé Champagne, but there’s a pleasing tautness imparted by the backbone of fresh acidity, well-meshed with flavors of ripe and fleshy white cherry and apricot fruit, pink grapefruit sorbet and pickled ginger. Fine, satiny finish. Disgorged June 2019. Drink now through 2025.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Generous and expressive, the latest rendition of Vilmart’s NV Brut Premier Cru Cuvée Rubis is showing very well, bursting with aromas of red berries, plums, blood orange and dried flowers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, with a sapid core of fruit, a pillowy mousse and a lively, delicately phenolic finish, it’s already drinking well. This is based on the 2017 vintage, with reserve wines from the 2016 and 2015 vintages, and it was disgorged with nine grams per liter dosage.”
Disgorged October 2019
Champagne Sale Pricing Valid Until Monday, April 5th at 6PM
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A Trip to Ribeira Sacra:
Spain’s Answer to Burgundy
First Offer: Dominus 2018
Collector’s Corner:
Rare Importer-Direct Henri Bonneau
Spring-Kickoff Champagne Sale
Arriving Friday, On Sale This Weekend
Just Arrived: New Montevertine Pergole Torte
A Trip to Ribeira Sacra: Spain’s Answer to Burgundy
VinopolPicks:
German Spatlese Rieslings from $35-$50
First Offer: Dominus 2018
Dominus was founded by Christian Moueix, proprietor of the legendary Chateau Petrus in Pomerol and his vision has shaped Dominus into the force that it’s become. Despite its French heritage, the wine is definitely California in tone and style, combining waves of rich fruit and beautiful aromatics with enough tannin to ground the wine. We’ve just received our allocation of the ’18—the product of a near-perfect growing season in Napa.
There’s a consensus brewing that this is one of the greatest editions of Dominus yet, with a perfect score from Jeb Dunnuck, plus two others at 97+ points. As with the previous several vintages, we expect to sell out quickly, so California enthusiasts should stock up quickly. There are also an (extremely) limited quantity of magnums available, should you be looking for cellar-centerpieces.
Arriving ETA Late May:
Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2018 750ML ($349.95) $299 pre-arrival special
Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2018 1.5L ($749.95) $649 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The flagship 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot brought up in 40% new French oak. With an essence of Cabernet-like character in its darker currants, green tobacco, cedar, graphite, and floral aromas and flavors, this gorgeous wine is full-bodied and has bright yet integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s just gorgeously put together and a magical, flawless wine. It’s going to take a decade to hit maturity but will evolve for 40-50 years in cold cellars. It is as good as it gets in classic, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon!”
Wine Advocate 99+ points “Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Dominus slowly emerges from the glass with profound notes of blackcurrant cordial, ripe black plums, boysenberries and Black Forest cake with hints of violets, star anise, cracked black pepper, raspberry leaves and pencil lead, plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers impactful black fruit layers, creating a beguiling sense of richness that is beautifully countered by invigorating freshness and great poise, framed by super ripe, plush tannins and beautiful tension, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note and, finally, lots of mineral sparks. For all that it is at the moment, one cannot help but feel that this 2018 is holding something back. Give it a good five years in bottle, at least, and then get set for what I suspect will be a mind-blowing transformation over the next 30 years+.-LPB”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2018 Dominus is wild and exotic from the first taste. Lifted aromatics make a strong opening impression. There is something exuberant about the 2018 that is hard to describe. The 2018 is not a huge Dominus, nor is it massively structured, but the intensity of the flavors is remarkable just the same. Dark raspberry, spice, leather and cedar are some of the many notes that open over time.”
There’s a consensus brewing that this is one of the greatest editions of Dominus yet, with a perfect score from Jeb Dunnuck, plus two others at 97+ points. As with the previous several vintages, we expect to sell out quickly, so California enthusiasts should stock up quickly. There are also an (extremely) limited quantity of magnums available, should you be looking for cellar-centerpieces.
Arriving ETA Late May:
Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2018 750ML ($349.95) $299 pre-arrival special
Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2018 1.5L ($749.95) $649 pre-arrival special
Jeb Dunnuck 100 points “The flagship 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot brought up in 40% new French oak. With an essence of Cabernet-like character in its darker currants, green tobacco, cedar, graphite, and floral aromas and flavors, this gorgeous wine is full-bodied and has bright yet integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s just gorgeously put together and a magical, flawless wine. It’s going to take a decade to hit maturity but will evolve for 40-50 years in cold cellars. It is as good as it gets in classic, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon!”
Wine Advocate 99+ points “Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Dominus slowly emerges from the glass with profound notes of blackcurrant cordial, ripe black plums, boysenberries and Black Forest cake with hints of violets, star anise, cracked black pepper, raspberry leaves and pencil lead, plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers impactful black fruit layers, creating a beguiling sense of richness that is beautifully countered by invigorating freshness and great poise, framed by super ripe, plush tannins and beautiful tension, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note and, finally, lots of mineral sparks. For all that it is at the moment, one cannot help but feel that this 2018 is holding something back. Give it a good five years in bottle, at least, and then get set for what I suspect will be a mind-blowing transformation over the next 30 years+.-LPB”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “The 2018 Dominus is wild and exotic from the first taste. Lifted aromatics make a strong opening impression. There is something exuberant about the 2018 that is hard to describe. The 2018 is not a huge Dominus, nor is it massively structured, but the intensity of the flavors is remarkable just the same. Dark raspberry, spice, leather and cedar are some of the many notes that open over time.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Collector’s Corner:
Rare Importer-Direct Henri Bonneau
“The Chateauneufs here have become legends in their maker’s lifetime, and anyone fortunate enough to try them can attest to the fact that these wines are utterly unique examples of the category, as well as some of the most idiosyncratic wines being made anywhere today. A visit to Bonneau is a step back in time-both in terms of the character of the wines and the bewildering maze of ancient cellars where the wines are raised. Tasting through the range of wines resting in cask here must not be much different today than a century or more ago.” –Josh Raynolds, Vinous
Henri Bonneau is a producer without peer in the Southern Rhone. No other winemaker, pace Rayas, has produced as many epic bottles as he has, and Celestins is one of his signature bottlings. We’ve secured a small, twelve-bottle, parcel directly from the official importer, arriving later this month with perfect provenance. This is an exceptionally rare opportunity to
Arriving ETA Late April:
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve des Celestins 2012 750ML ($499.95) $419 pre-arrival special
Only twelve bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “This defines old school, with savory detail and notes of roasted chestnut, fresh tobacco leaf, cedar and brick dust leading off, backed by a core of currant, cherry and plum fruit flavors that is lightly dried yet nonetheless fresh and racy in feel. Singed juniper and bay leaf hints score the finish. Likely to hold just like this for some time. Best from 2020 through 2040. 400 cases made, 100 cases imported. — JM”
Also available, in stock now:
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Speciale 1998 750ML ($1,399.95) $1,199 special, only one bottle available
Wine Spectator 98 points “This offers an aroma of chocolate-covered prunes stewing on the stove, along with notes of brick dust, black currant preserve, fresh espresso and powdered rust. Powerfully tannic and very heady, with layers of overripe fruit on the finish. Drinks like a Bual Madeira infused with black truffles, yet it somehow manages to maintain a sense of freshness. Amazing, but not for everyone. Drink now through 2025. — JM”
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve des Celestins 2005 750ML ($799.95) $599 special, only three bottles available
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “A big, muscular Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2005 Henri Bonneau Réserve des Célestins delivers a thrilling array of plum, crème de cassis, roasted garrigue, blood, and hints of graphite on the nose. Absolutely compelling aromatically, with awesome typicity and complexity, this full-bodied, structured effort is thick and rich on the palate, with a layered, concentrated mid-palate, integrated acidity, and blockbuster length on the finish. Given the almost voluptuous texture and quality of fruit, this is a profound drink now; nevertheless, it will benefit from 5-7 years of bottle age, and keep for 2 decades or more. If I had to choose one bottle to represents the essence of traditionally made Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this would be it!”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Full ruby. Huge, room-filling bouquet of blackberry compote, cherry, potpourri and cured tobacco, along with an intense spicy quality and a hint of orange zest. Palate-staining dark fruit flavors are braced by a strong mineral component and complicated by star anise and candied lavender nuances. Refuses to let up on the finish, which emphatically echoes the dark berry and lavender notes. There are tannins lurking in here but they’re buried beneath this wine’s powerful fruit.”
Henri Bonneau is a producer without peer in the Southern Rhone. No other winemaker, pace Rayas, has produced as many epic bottles as he has, and Celestins is one of his signature bottlings. We’ve secured a small, twelve-bottle, parcel directly from the official importer, arriving later this month with perfect provenance. This is an exceptionally rare opportunity to
Arriving ETA Late April:
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve des Celestins 2012 750ML ($499.95) $419 pre-arrival special
Only twelve bottles available
Wine Spectator 97 points “This defines old school, with savory detail and notes of roasted chestnut, fresh tobacco leaf, cedar and brick dust leading off, backed by a core of currant, cherry and plum fruit flavors that is lightly dried yet nonetheless fresh and racy in feel. Singed juniper and bay leaf hints score the finish. Likely to hold just like this for some time. Best from 2020 through 2040. 400 cases made, 100 cases imported. — JM”
Also available, in stock now:
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Speciale 1998 750ML ($1,399.95) $1,199 special, only one bottle available
Wine Spectator 98 points “This offers an aroma of chocolate-covered prunes stewing on the stove, along with notes of brick dust, black currant preserve, fresh espresso and powdered rust. Powerfully tannic and very heady, with layers of overripe fruit on the finish. Drinks like a Bual Madeira infused with black truffles, yet it somehow manages to maintain a sense of freshness. Amazing, but not for everyone. Drink now through 2025. — JM”
Henri Bonneau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve des Celestins 2005 750ML ($799.95) $599 special, only three bottles available
Jeb Dunnuck 97 points “A big, muscular Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2005 Henri Bonneau Réserve des Célestins delivers a thrilling array of plum, crème de cassis, roasted garrigue, blood, and hints of graphite on the nose. Absolutely compelling aromatically, with awesome typicity and complexity, this full-bodied, structured effort is thick and rich on the palate, with a layered, concentrated mid-palate, integrated acidity, and blockbuster length on the finish. Given the almost voluptuous texture and quality of fruit, this is a profound drink now; nevertheless, it will benefit from 5-7 years of bottle age, and keep for 2 decades or more. If I had to choose one bottle to represents the essence of traditionally made Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this would be it!”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 96 points “Full ruby. Huge, room-filling bouquet of blackberry compote, cherry, potpourri and cured tobacco, along with an intense spicy quality and a hint of orange zest. Palate-staining dark fruit flavors are braced by a strong mineral component and complicated by star anise and candied lavender nuances. Refuses to let up on the finish, which emphatically echoes the dark berry and lavender notes. There are tannins lurking in here but they’re buried beneath this wine’s powerful fruit.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Spring Kickoff Champagne Sale
Arriving Friday, On Sale This Weekend
Champagne Sale Pricing Valid Until Monday, April 5th at 6PM
Arriving April 9th:
Aubry Champagne Aubry De Humbert 2014 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $51.90 pre-arrival special
Richard Juhlin, 4000 Champagnes “The yield is low and only “coeur de cuvée” is used for the vintage wines. The grapes are divided into five classes according to their quality, and a considerable amount is vinified in old, traditional 205-liter oak barrels. The most remarkable thing about Aubry is that, through almost archaeological search for old plant varieties, they have succeeded in making a brilliant Champagne out of three forgotten grape types: Pinot Gris, Arbanne, and Petit Meslier. Furthermore many grapevines are planted “en foule,” as they were before phylloxera.”
Arriving April 9th:
Aubry Champagne Aubry De Humbert 2014 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $51.90 pre-arrival special
Richard Juhlin, 4000 Champagnes “The yield is low and only “coeur de cuvée” is used for the vintage wines. The grapes are divided into five classes according to their quality, and a considerable amount is vinified in old, traditional 205-liter oak barrels. The most remarkable thing about Aubry is that, through almost archaeological search for old plant varieties, they have succeeded in making a brilliant Champagne out of three forgotten grape types: Pinot Gris, Arbanne, and Petit Meslier. Furthermore many grapevines are planted “en foule,” as they were before phylloxera.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $70
The next best price is $70
Aubry Brut Premier Cru NV 1.5L ($119.95) Was $85, Now $79 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 91 points “A creamy viscosity complements the texture of this harmonious version. An accessible crowd-pleaser, with lightly juicy acidity and delicate flavors of chopped almond, baked pear, saline and citrus. Disgorged January 2019. Drink now through 2022.”
Importer note “30% Pinot Meunier, 35% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 5% Arbanne, Petit Meslier and Fromenteau. Assemblage 50% 2016 base with 50% perpetual reserve back to 1998. Village/vyd Jouy-lès-Reims 1er Cru and Villedommange 1er Cru.”
This is the lowest listed price for a magnum in the USA today!
Doyard ‘Les Lumieres’ Grand Cru Extra Brut 2008 750ML ($379.95) Was $289, Now $269 pre-arrival special
Only three bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 97 points “A spectacular wine, Doyard’s 2008 Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Lumières was disgorged in November 2018 with minimal dosage. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of orange oil, crisp yellow orchard fruit, fresh pastry, honeycomb and almond paste, it’s full-bodied, searingly concentrated and intense, with a racy spine of acidity, immense depth at the core and a long, electric finish. This cuvée is a blend of first-press juice: two-thirds Chardonnay from Mesnil-sur-Oger and one-third Pinot Noir from prime holdings in Aÿ.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Doyard Oeil de Perdrix Grand Cru Brut Rose 2015 750ML ($119.95) Was $99, Now $79 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 93 points “The 2015 Doyard Oiel de Perdrix Extra Brut Millésime is composed from a cépages of seventy-five percent pinot noir and twenty-five percent chardonnay, with the pinot noir hailing from Aÿ and the chardonnay from Avize. The vins clairs do not go through malolactic and are given some extended aging in old Burgundy casks prior to bottling up for secondary fermentation in September of 2016. The wine was aged thirty-six months sur latte and disgorged in September of 2019, with a finishing dosage of three grams per liter. It is quite pale in color and offers up a beautiful bouquet of white cherry, peach, rye bread, chalky soil tones, dried flowers, discreet spice tones and just a whisper of oak. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and complex, with fine mid-palate depth and soil signature, bright acids, frothy mousse and a long, vibrant finish. This is a beautiful wine that is absolutely built for the table! 2020-2040+.”
Importer note “80% Pinot Noir from Ay and 20% Chardonnay from Avize.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $99.98
The next best price is $99.98
Hebrart Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($59.95) Was $49, Now $45 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 89 points ” The NV Brut Blanc de Blancs is bright and finely cut, with tons of energy and acids driving citrus, mineral and floral notes. This is an especially nervy style. I would prefer to see a bit more mid palate and overall body, but the Blanc de Blancs is a very pretty wine nonetheless. White pepper and crushed rocks add to the wine’s bright upper register. This release is based on 2016, with reserve wines from 2015 and 2014. Dosage is 8 grams per liter. Disgorged: November 18, 2019.”
Importer note “60% 2015, 25% 2014, 15% 2013.”
Disgorged Nov 18, 2019
Jacques Lassaigne Clos Sainte-Sophie Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature 2013 750ML ($199.95) Was $159, Now $129 pre-arrival special
Only six bottles available
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $160
The next best price is $160
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Oger Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut NV 750ML ($69.95) Was $55, Now $51.90 pre-arrival special
John Gilman 91 points “The current release of the Oger Grand Cru bottling from the Gimmonet family is from the base year of 2016 and includes reserve wines in the blend from the previous three vintages. The vins clairs go through full malo, are aged in stainless steel and the wine was disgorged in January of 2019 with a finishing dosage of six grams per liter. It offers up a deep and complex nose of pear, apple, plenty of smokiness, a fine base of limestone minerality and a touch of brioche. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, focused and nascently complex, with a good core, fine mineral drive, pinpoint bubbles and a long, well-balanced and still fairly youthful finish. This has broader shoulders and more mid-palate depth than the Cuis Premier Cru bottling above and really deserves a bit more bottle age to fully blossom. Good juice. 2022-2045.”
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Paradoxe Premier Cru Brut 2013 750ML ($79.95) Was $61.90, Now $55 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Gimonnet’s 2013 Brut Paradoxe really stands out in this range for its breadth and texture, but that is exactly what makes Pinot Noir in the Marne Valley so distinctive. Rich, ample and creamy, the Paradoxe exudes class from the very first taste. Sadly, this is the last vintage of the Paradoxe, as Didier Gimonnet ripped out the Pinot in favor of Chardonnay. Dosage is 5 grams per liter.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $63.99
The next best price is $63.99
Pierre Gimonnet et Fils Cuvee Special Club Brut Millesime 2014 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Brut Spécial Club is a blend of fruit taken mostly from Cramant, with Chouilly and Cuis in supporting roles. The breadth and power of Cramant comes through loud and clear. Readers will find a potent, at times austere, Champagne that needs a bit of time in the cellar to soften. The Special Club does not offer the immediacy of the Chouilly or Cramant Special Clubs, but it has plenty of its own allure. Dried pear, spice, crushed flowers and chamomile are some of the aromas and flavors that linger on the imposing finish. Dosage is 4 grams per liter.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $89.98
The next best price is $89.98
Rene Geoffroy Meunier ‘Les Tiersaudes’ Brut Nature Millesime 2013 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $85 pre-arrival special
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2013 Brut Nature Les Tiersaudes, 100% Meunier, is fabulous. Soaring aromatics and creamy, beautifully layered fruit meld together in a deeply expressive Champagne that hits all the right notes. Refined, perfumed and exquisitely elegant, the Tiersaudes takes Meunier into a rarified expression of total finesse. Bright, saline notes punctuate the finish. I loved it.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93+ points “…derived entirely from Cumières Pinot Meunier, the 2013 Brut Nature Les Tiersaudes offers up a lovely bouquet of lime zest, smoky orchard fruit, red berries, bitter orange and spices. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, broad and vinous, with a youthfully frothy but incipiently fine mousse, excellent concentration at the core and a firm girdle of acidity, concluding with a long, dry and chalky finish. The expression of fruit is so pristine and the wine’s structure is so complete that I can understand why Geoffroy opted to release this as Brut Nature, though I would love to experience the additional plenitude that a disgorgement with one or two grams per liter dosage might possess.”
Terry Theise Note “[(+)] Another single-vineyard wine, this is entirely Meunier, grown on clay (not chalk), a 1-time-only bottling of just 1300 bottles. It’s alovely, almost delicate Meunier; caraway and rye-toast, not austere but pure and ascetic; detailed finish and high-register aromasof seemingly every sweet grain. As refined as Meunier can be. With a new deg. 4/2018 it remains a curiously expressive Meunier,though for whatever reason I found it more austere this time.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Rene Geoffroy Rose de Saignee Premier Cru Brut NV 750ML ($69.95) Was $59, Now $51.90 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Disgorged in December 2019, the latest release of Geoffroy’s NV Brut Premier Cru Rosé de Saignée is derived from the 2015 vintage. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of peonies, mandarin orange and red berries, it’s full-bodied, rich and vinous, with a fleshy core of fruit, ripe acids and a gently phenolic finish. This characterful wine will be at its best at table.”
Savart Le Mont Benoit Premier Cru Extra Brut 2015 1.5L ($299.95) Was $279, Now $249 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2015 Extra Brut Premier Cru Le Mont Benoit was—like Savart’s Mont de Chrétiens—disgorged with only two grams per liter dosage in lieu of the normal three. It was showing especially well during my spring visit to the domaine, bursting with aromas of orange rind, crisp green apple, white flowers and almond paste, the prelude to a medium to full-bodied, layered and racy palate that’s long, penetrating and saline on the finish.”
Importer Note “Le Mont Benoit (made a household name by Emmanuel Brochet) is a single parcel in Villers-aux-Noeuds. Fred’s plot is 95% Pinot Noir, and 5% Chardonnay. The dosage is 3g/L.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $294
The next best price is $294
Savart Le Mont des Chretiens Premier Cru Extra Brut 2015 1.5L ($299.95) Was $279, Now $249 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “Produced exclusively from Chardonnay in an Ecueil lieu-dit better-known for Pinot Noir is the 2015 Extra-Brut Premier Cru Le Mont des Chrétiens, a small cuvée that’s vinified in 500-liter barrels, without malolactic, and it was disgorged a few months ago with only two grams per liter dosage—one gram less than Savart’s usual three for this bottling. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of lemon curd, white flowers, fresh melon, pastry cream and mandarin, it’s medium to full-bodied, deep and chalky, with a tensile profile despite the warm vintage, concluding with a mineral finish. Note that this bottling used to be named Dame de Coeur.”
Importer Note “Le Mont des Chrétiens is a lieu dit in the village Ecueil. The parcel is entirely of Chardonnay and Fred ferments and ages it in 500L barrels. The dosage is 3g/L. (Fred used to call this cuvée Dame de Coeur.)”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $294
The next best price is $294
Savart Les Noues Ecueil Premier Cru Extra Brut 2016 750ML ($159.95) Was $135, Now $115 pre-arrival special
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Vilmart & Cie Les Blanches Voies Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut 2009 750ML ($419.95) Was $329, Now $299 pre-arrival special
Only six bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 97 points “A new lieu-dit cuvée for Vilmart—derived from 60-year-old vines and vinified in barrel for 10 months—debuts with the 2009 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies, a wine that was disgorged in March 2017 with four grams per liter dosage. Wafting from the glass with aromas of crisp yellow pear, beeswax, white flowers, walnuts and brioche, it’s deep, full-bodied and searingly intense, with chalky structuring extract and an incisive spine of acidity. Long and penetrating, this has turned out brilliantly.”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Here in its first release, the 2009 Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is positively stellar. Old vines confer remarkable power, gravitas and explosive energy, and yet the 2009 preserves remarkable freshness to play off the resonant, deeply layered fruit. Intense graphite, mineral, citrus and floral notes add myriad shades of nuance to an expansive, powerful Blanc de Blancs that hits all the right notes. The purity and vibrancy of the flavors here is simply striking. The Blanches Voies gets one more year on the lees than the flagship Coeur de Cuvée and also a dosage of just 4 grams per liter, the lowest ever in the history of Vilmart. The 2009 is positively stellar. Don’t miss it! Production is just 2,400 bottles. Disgorged March 17.”
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2009 Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is every bit as stunning as it was last year. The combination of the warm year and the natural richness conferred by these 70+- year-old vines yields a powerful, vinous Champagne with tremendous character, depth and the pedigree to drink well for many years. Laurent Champs gave the Blanc de Blancs 7 years on the cork, as opposed to the 6 that are customary for the Coeur de Cuvée. Dosage is 4 grams per liter. Disgorged: March, 2017.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $349.97
Now it’s even lower!
The next best price is $349.97
Vilmart & Cie Les Blanches Voies Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut 2011 750ML ($419.95) Was $349, Now $315 pre-arrival special
Only six bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96 points “Offering up aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit, dried white flowers, honeycomb and blanched almonds, the 2011 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is full-bodied, broad and muscular, with striking concentration, racy acids and chalky structuring extract. Chiseled and mineral, it’s a terrific wine. Laurent Champs has always had good things to say about the 2011 vintage chez Vilmart, and a taste of this wine offers persuasive testimony in support of his position. This was disgorged in February 2019 with four grams per liter dosage.”
Only six bottles available
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96 points “Offering up aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit, dried white flowers, honeycomb and blanched almonds, the 2011 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is full-bodied, broad and muscular, with striking concentration, racy acids and chalky structuring extract. Chiseled and mineral, it’s a terrific wine. Laurent Champs has always had good things to say about the 2011 vintage chez Vilmart, and a taste of this wine offers persuasive testimony in support of his position. This was disgorged in February 2019 with four grams per liter dosage.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier d’Or Premier Cru Brut 2015 750ML ($119.95) Was $89, Now $79 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 93 points “Disgorged in June 2019 with seven grams per liter dosage, the 2015 Brut Premier Cru Grand Cellier d’Or reveals inviting aromas of golden orchard fruit, pear, freshly baked bread and citrus zest. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, with racy acids, chalky extract and a long, penetrating finish, the vintage has imparted additional generosity, but the house’s chiseled, serious style remains very much intact.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier Rubis – Emotion Brut Rose 2012 750ML ($199.95) Was $151.90, Now $145 pre-arrival special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 94 points “Disgorged in January 2018, Vilmart’s new 2012 Brut Emotion is showing beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of orange oil, red berries, yellow plums and toasted almonds. Medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, it’s racy and incisive, with chalky structuring extract and a pillowy mousse, concluding with a penetrating finish. It’s a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay from 45-year-old vines, vinified in barrels for 10 months without malolactic fermentation.”
This was the lowest listed price in the USA today,
Now it’s even lower!
Now it’s even lower!
Vilmart & Cie ‘Cuvee Rubis’ Brut Rose NV 750ML ($99.95) Was $75, Now $71.90 pre-arrival special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Lovely aromas of lilac and star anise waft from the glass of this graceful rosé Champagne, but there’s a pleasing tautness imparted by the backbone of fresh acidity, well-meshed with flavors of ripe and fleshy white cherry and apricot fruit, pink grapefruit sorbet and pickled ginger. Fine, satiny finish. Disgorged June 2019. Drink now through 2025.”
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “Generous and expressive, the latest rendition of Vilmart’s NV Brut Premier Cru Cuvée Rubis is showing very well, bursting with aromas of red berries, plums, blood orange and dried flowers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, with a sapid core of fruit, a pillowy mousse and a lively, delicately phenolic finish, it’s already drinking well. This is based on the 2017 vintage, with reserve wines from the 2016 and 2015 vintages, and it was disgorged with nine grams per liter dosage.”
Disgorged October 2019
Champagne Sale Pricing Valid Until Monday, April 5th at 6PM
Just Arrived:
New Montevertine Pergole Torte
New Montevertine Pergole Torte
Our annual offer of Le Pergole Torte is one of the highlights of the year for lovers of classical Tuscan wine. Perhaps no wine short of Soldera and Biondi-Santi’s Riserva manages to capture the aristocratic nature of the Sanviovese grape. The 2017 is among the finest vintages ever—a tribute to Montevertine’s Tuscan mastery. A rising tide might lift all boats, but Montevertine seemed to float higher than most.
If you’re unfamiliar with the wine, know that one of Chianti’s greatest wines isn’t labeled as a Chianti, despite being made in the heart of the Classico zone. Montevertine originally left the appellation because at the time, white grapes were required to call a wine Chianti and Sergio Manetti wanted to make a wine that was 100% Sangiovese, a scandalous thing. Thus Le Pergole Torte was born. It’s a special wine, one that stops a conversation every time you get a chance to taste it.
It’s tempting to compare this wine to Grand Cru Burgundy, after all, most of Montevertine’s most ardent fans are Burg lovers first and foremost. That’s doing it a disservice, though—this is a wine that is iconic in its own right. We get smaller and smaller allocations each year, so grab these while you get the chance.
Just Arrived:
Only 18 bottles available
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 2017 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2017 Le Pergole Torte is a wine of pure and total sensuality. I imagine the 2017 is one of those wines that will always offer tremendous pleasure. Pliant and inviting, with soft, voluptuous curves, the 2017 is off the charts gorgeous. Layers of deep Sangiovese fruit gradually reveal themselves with air. The flavors are so intense but also so primary. I wouldn’t touch a bottle before age ten. Readers lucky enough to find the 2017 should not hesitate, as it is magnificent. I can’t imagine anyone who loves Le Pergole Torte not wanting a good supply of the 2017 in the cellar. The 2017 has come together beautifully over the last year.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The Montevertine 2017 Le Pergole Torte is a dark and sensuous expression with a well-matched “portrait of a lady” by artist Alberto Manfredi depicted on the iconic label of this vintage. Her full, ruby-colored lips speak of the generous and abundant fruit displayed here, and her slanted mascara-lined eyes underline the heat and power of the vintage. The Montevertine school matches the character of a wine to its bottle artwork with unparalleled success. This edition reflects the heat and the dry growing conditions of the vintage, however there is more sweetness and opulent fruit here compared to the Montevertine. It’s not that this wine is riper per se, it just tastes more voluptuous and soft. It finishes with elegant tannins and a long, polished mouthfeel.”
If you’re unfamiliar with the wine, know that one of Chianti’s greatest wines isn’t labeled as a Chianti, despite being made in the heart of the Classico zone. Montevertine originally left the appellation because at the time, white grapes were required to call a wine Chianti and Sergio Manetti wanted to make a wine that was 100% Sangiovese, a scandalous thing. Thus Le Pergole Torte was born. It’s a special wine, one that stops a conversation every time you get a chance to taste it.
It’s tempting to compare this wine to Grand Cru Burgundy, after all, most of Montevertine’s most ardent fans are Burg lovers first and foremost. That’s doing it a disservice, though—this is a wine that is iconic in its own right. We get smaller and smaller allocations each year, so grab these while you get the chance.
Just Arrived:
Only 18 bottles available
Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 2017 750ML ($199.95) $169 special
Antonio Galloni 98 points “The 2017 Le Pergole Torte is a wine of pure and total sensuality. I imagine the 2017 is one of those wines that will always offer tremendous pleasure. Pliant and inviting, with soft, voluptuous curves, the 2017 is off the charts gorgeous. Layers of deep Sangiovese fruit gradually reveal themselves with air. The flavors are so intense but also so primary. I wouldn’t touch a bottle before age ten. Readers lucky enough to find the 2017 should not hesitate, as it is magnificent. I can’t imagine anyone who loves Le Pergole Torte not wanting a good supply of the 2017 in the cellar. The 2017 has come together beautifully over the last year.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 96 points “The Montevertine 2017 Le Pergole Torte is a dark and sensuous expression with a well-matched “portrait of a lady” by artist Alberto Manfredi depicted on the iconic label of this vintage. Her full, ruby-colored lips speak of the generous and abundant fruit displayed here, and her slanted mascara-lined eyes underline the heat and power of the vintage. The Montevertine school matches the character of a wine to its bottle artwork with unparalleled success. This edition reflects the heat and the dry growing conditions of the vintage, however there is more sweetness and opulent fruit here compared to the Montevertine. It’s not that this wine is riper per se, it just tastes more voluptuous and soft. It finishes with elegant tannins and a long, polished mouthfeel.”
Have Wine Ready to Pick Up?
Stop by our shop 10 am – 6 pm daily
Feel free to call ahead before you arrive or for curbside service:
#503-223-6002
(You’ll help free up some space for your next order!)
A Trip to Ribeira Sacra:
Spain’s Answer to Burgundy
We could all use a little travel time right now, and since Spring has come upon us, we’re going to take a little trip to Ribeira Sacra, an ancient region in the Eastern part of Galicia. Never heard of it? Many haven’t—which makes this tiny pocket in Northwest Spain a prime opportunity for wines of great value.
The vineyards are mostly planted on incredibly steep slopes, allowing the fruit to retain acidity with this high elevation positioning. Winegrowers take pride in the several indigenous varieties able to ripen perfectly in this environment, but we’ll focus on both the red darling of the region, Mencia, and the very common field blends still traditionally being produced.
You often see Mencia coming from Bierzo, but it’s the elevation, Atlantic-influenced cooler climate, and soils of granite, slate and clay that really define the distinctive style of these wines. It’s the perfect varietal to jump into with the warmer weather approaching, with its characteristics of fresh red berries, brambly fruit, floral notes, juicy acidity and mineral depth. The higher elevation allows for later ripening, delivering concentrated fruit and length, but balanced with that natural acidity, and avoiding the over ripeness you tend to see in other regions of Spain.
The field blends show more crushed dark fruit, and a bit more structure with Garnacha or the local, Negrada. , allowing these wines to either be drunk now, or to hide in your cellar for some time.
Don’t be shy sticking these reds in the fridge for about 20 minutes- treat these undervalued wines like you would a Cru Beaujolais’… just try not to spread the word about these gems too much, we want to be able to enjoy them at these prices for years to come.
In Stock Now:
Guimaro Camino Real, Ribeira Sacra 2017 750ML ($37.95) $24 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2017 Camiño Real now contains all the plots that they intended to include in the initial 2016 but couldn’t because many vineyards in the Amandi zone were destroyed by a terrible hailstorm on August 15th that year. It fermented with 80% full clusters and the rest uncrushed grapes in oak vats with a maceration of 35 days and matured in those vats for seven to eight months. Half of the wine was then moved to barrique and was kept there for five months, while the rest continued maturing in the 10,000-liter vat. The wine has notes of wild berries, flowers and herbs, with good complexity and a medium-bodied palate with fine-grained tannins. It has more complexity and depth than the young, unoaked wine and the single-vineyard bottlings. It has a nice mouthfeel and is quite approachable, a round and somewhat immediate vintage. 25,000 bottles.”
Grapelive 92 points “One of my favorite producers and wines, Guimaro, made by Pedro Rodriguez, makes red and white wines in the Ribeira Sacra region of Spain’s Galicia provence….These steep vineyard sites are back-breaking hard to work, with everything done by hand, they look more like frightening slopes in Mosel than what you’d expect in Spain, looking down upon the Sil river. This 100% whole cluster 2017 is full flavored with flinty earthy tones showing briar accented raspberry, huckleberry, plum, cherry and cranberry fruits, a touch of smoke, leather, mineral iron and anise, along with a delicately sweet floral essence that balances out the savory elements and dusty dry tannins. Mencia has qualities that remind you of the northern Rhone, but is brighter like Pinot or Gamay with a similar lively personality. The 2017 vintage is ripe, but full of natural acidity and takes a few swirls in the glass to reveal its true depth and textural quality, it is a wine that certainly benefits from simple country cuisine and robust dishes. Pedro’s wines are real, honest and terroir driven with the reds being made mostly from Mencia and the white crafted from Godello, ancient native grapes that require extra care and TLC to make world class wines, which he does at this small winery set in this remote place that was once highly prized by the Romans, who named it the Sacred Banks (Ribeira Sacra) and planted vines on the historic terraces…the wines from Guimaro, which means “rebel” in Gallego (the local dialect)…are wines of rustic charm and character from a region that humbly respects and honors the power of nature, they are wines of place, especially the series of single parcel wines like this Camino Real bottling, from all organic 40-60 year old vines set on the slate with a mix of sand, quartz and granite with a field blend of about 85% Menci´a plus tiny amounts of Merenzao, Mourato´n, Brancellao, Cain~o, Souso´n and Alicante Bouschet. In the cellar, Pedro, who was mentored by the legendary Raul Perez, keeps things simple, natural and non intervention in style, employing native or indigenous yeast, spontaneous fermentations in open-top wood vats and long macerations, with this Camino Real seeing a 40 maceration and primary fermentation on the skins, after which the wine was raised in a combination of used oak from large foudre to small used barrique and bottled with ultra low sulfur, unfined and unfiltered.”
The vineyards are mostly planted on incredibly steep slopes, allowing the fruit to retain acidity with this high elevation positioning. Winegrowers take pride in the several indigenous varieties able to ripen perfectly in this environment, but we’ll focus on both the red darling of the region, Mencia, and the very common field blends still traditionally being produced.
You often see Mencia coming from Bierzo, but it’s the elevation, Atlantic-influenced cooler climate, and soils of granite, slate and clay that really define the distinctive style of these wines. It’s the perfect varietal to jump into with the warmer weather approaching, with its characteristics of fresh red berries, brambly fruit, floral notes, juicy acidity and mineral depth. The higher elevation allows for later ripening, delivering concentrated fruit and length, but balanced with that natural acidity, and avoiding the over ripeness you tend to see in other regions of Spain.
The field blends show more crushed dark fruit, and a bit more structure with Garnacha or the local, Negrada. , allowing these wines to either be drunk now, or to hide in your cellar for some time.
Don’t be shy sticking these reds in the fridge for about 20 minutes- treat these undervalued wines like you would a Cru Beaujolais’… just try not to spread the word about these gems too much, we want to be able to enjoy them at these prices for years to come.
In Stock Now:
Guimaro Camino Real, Ribeira Sacra 2017 750ML ($37.95) $24 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2017 Camiño Real now contains all the plots that they intended to include in the initial 2016 but couldn’t because many vineyards in the Amandi zone were destroyed by a terrible hailstorm on August 15th that year. It fermented with 80% full clusters and the rest uncrushed grapes in oak vats with a maceration of 35 days and matured in those vats for seven to eight months. Half of the wine was then moved to barrique and was kept there for five months, while the rest continued maturing in the 10,000-liter vat. The wine has notes of wild berries, flowers and herbs, with good complexity and a medium-bodied palate with fine-grained tannins. It has more complexity and depth than the young, unoaked wine and the single-vineyard bottlings. It has a nice mouthfeel and is quite approachable, a round and somewhat immediate vintage. 25,000 bottles.”
Grapelive 92 points “One of my favorite producers and wines, Guimaro, made by Pedro Rodriguez, makes red and white wines in the Ribeira Sacra region of Spain’s Galicia provence….These steep vineyard sites are back-breaking hard to work, with everything done by hand, they look more like frightening slopes in Mosel than what you’d expect in Spain, looking down upon the Sil river. This 100% whole cluster 2017 is full flavored with flinty earthy tones showing briar accented raspberry, huckleberry, plum, cherry and cranberry fruits, a touch of smoke, leather, mineral iron and anise, along with a delicately sweet floral essence that balances out the savory elements and dusty dry tannins. Mencia has qualities that remind you of the northern Rhone, but is brighter like Pinot or Gamay with a similar lively personality. The 2017 vintage is ripe, but full of natural acidity and takes a few swirls in the glass to reveal its true depth and textural quality, it is a wine that certainly benefits from simple country cuisine and robust dishes. Pedro’s wines are real, honest and terroir driven with the reds being made mostly from Mencia and the white crafted from Godello, ancient native grapes that require extra care and TLC to make world class wines, which he does at this small winery set in this remote place that was once highly prized by the Romans, who named it the Sacred Banks (Ribeira Sacra) and planted vines on the historic terraces…the wines from Guimaro, which means “rebel” in Gallego (the local dialect)…are wines of rustic charm and character from a region that humbly respects and honors the power of nature, they are wines of place, especially the series of single parcel wines like this Camino Real bottling, from all organic 40-60 year old vines set on the slate with a mix of sand, quartz and granite with a field blend of about 85% Menci´a plus tiny amounts of Merenzao, Mourato´n, Brancellao, Cain~o, Souso´n and Alicante Bouschet. In the cellar, Pedro, who was mentored by the legendary Raul Perez, keeps things simple, natural and non intervention in style, employing native or indigenous yeast, spontaneous fermentations in open-top wood vats and long macerations, with this Camino Real seeing a 40 maceration and primary fermentation on the skins, after which the wine was raised in a combination of used oak from large foudre to small used barrique and bottled with ultra low sulfur, unfined and unfiltered.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Guimaro Finca Meixeman, Ribeira Sacra 2017 750ML ($54.95) $39 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Finca Meixeman is a single 1.2 hectare southeast-facing plot of old Mencía vines. This is the original family-owned vineyard that helped create their adega. The grapes are hand-harvested, foot-trodden with 40% whole cluster, and fermented in open-top foudre with a long maceration. The wine is raised for 12-14 months in mostly used Burgundy barrels, and bottled without fining or filtration. With a core of kirsch-like red fruit, spices, and minerals, this is a serious wine to pair with wild game, offal, braises, stews, roasted or grilled meats.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Guimaro Finca Pombeiras, Ribeira Sacra 2017 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 95+ points “There was no 2016 as the vineyards were hit by a terrible hailstorm the 15th of August 2016, so I only tasted the 2017 Finca Pombeiras. This is always more powerful and has a little more tannin than Finca Capeliños. This is from a south-facing plot on mainly schist soils (but there’s also a little granite), and it was fermented with 100% full clusters, which usually lends to a more powerful wine. In 2017, the character of the vineyard clearly comes through. It’s always a wine that takes longer than Capeliños to open up. They have been fine-tuning these single-plot wines, especially after 2013; they’ve been harvesting earlier, trying to get more freshness and improve the drinkability of the wines. This is still extremely young, primary and undeveloped and should blossom with one more year in bottle, but it’s not harsh at all and could be enjoyed young with powerful food. Some 800 bottles produced.”
Importer Note “Finca Pombeiras is a single 0.45 hectare south-facing plot of old Mencía vines. The grapes are hand-harvested, foot-trodden with 100% whole cluster, and fermented in open-top foudre with a long maceration. The wine is raised for 8-10 months in used 500 liter French oak barrels, and bottled without fining or filtration. This is the adega’s only cuvée fermented entirely with whole clusters, and is markedly more umami, savory, and earthy in comparison to the other single vineyard cuvées.”
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 95+ points “There was no 2016 as the vineyards were hit by a terrible hailstorm the 15th of August 2016, so I only tasted the 2017 Finca Pombeiras. This is always more powerful and has a little more tannin than Finca Capeliños. This is from a south-facing plot on mainly schist soils (but there’s also a little granite), and it was fermented with 100% full clusters, which usually lends to a more powerful wine. In 2017, the character of the vineyard clearly comes through. It’s always a wine that takes longer than Capeliños to open up. They have been fine-tuning these single-plot wines, especially after 2013; they’ve been harvesting earlier, trying to get more freshness and improve the drinkability of the wines. This is still extremely young, primary and undeveloped and should blossom with one more year in bottle, but it’s not harsh at all and could be enjoyed young with powerful food. Some 800 bottles produced.”
Importer Note “Finca Pombeiras is a single 0.45 hectare south-facing plot of old Mencía vines. The grapes are hand-harvested, foot-trodden with 100% whole cluster, and fermented in open-top foudre with a long maceration. The wine is raised for 8-10 months in used 500 liter French oak barrels, and bottled without fining or filtration. This is the adega’s only cuvée fermented entirely with whole clusters, and is markedly more umami, savory, and earthy in comparison to the other single vineyard cuvées.”
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Daterra Viticultores ‘Camino de la Frontera’ Tinto, Castilla y Leon 2018 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 94 points “The unique and outstandingly expressive Camino de la Frontera, made from incredibly rare local varietals including Juan Garcia, Tinta Madrid and Rufete from a high elevation vineyard in Fermoselle is crazy delicious with deep layers of blueberry, pomegranate, açaí and earthy currant fruits, but with racy acidity, a nice umami crunchiness, spicy notes and mineral elements in a wonderfully soulful and balanced wine. To explain this exotic field blend red wine from Arribes del Duero, you’d have to imagine some amazingly different wines blended together, I am seeing elements of classic Northern Rhones, along with characteristics you find in the red wines of the Alto Adige, as well as something like the Frappato and Nero d’Avola blends in Southern Sicily in the Vittoria region! Laura Lorenzo is one of the most heroic and iconic winemakers in Spain these days and her Daterra Viticultores label is one of the most intriguing in the wine world….The vivid and floral (violet) toned Camino de la Frontera Tinto comes from an ancient parcel with vines that are well over a hundred years old at 650 meters above sea level…. The grapes, which are all organic, were hand-harvested then traditionally foot-trodden using about 50% whole-cluster and 50% de-stemmed in this year, with as per normal with Laura’s natural wines, was wild yeast fermented. Lorenzo, who believes in transparency and wines that deliver textural pleasure, used a combination of large French oak and a 1000L chestnut wood foudre to ferment in and then this Camino de la Frontera Tinto was raised in the same vessels for 11 months. As expected in wines like this there was no manipulation during the winemaking process here and Laura’s wines see only a small dose of SO2 with all of her wines being unfined and unfiltered to preserve purity as well as showcase the individual terroirs and every distinct nuance to be found in the finished wines. This is compelling stuff and perfectly delivers everything I love about these Daterra Viticultores wines, which are sultry, earthy seductive and celebrate a sense of wildness that captures the essence of this region and the Galician cool Atlantic climate and rugged charms. “
Daterra Viticultores ‘Portela do Vento’ 2018 750ML ($39.95) $31.90 special, 33 bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Comes from several south-facing parcels of Menci´a and Garnacha Tintorera in the Amandi and Quiroga-Bibei subzones. The grapes were harvested by hand and mostly destemmed, fermented with wild yeasts in steel vats, and raised for 9 months in used 500 liter French barrels. This is Laura’s “glou-glou” wine that she loves to share with her American friends. Fresh and easy-drinking, it is very versatile with a wide variety of foods…or straight from the porro´n!?”
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Daterra Viticultores ‘Tabernario’ 2018 750ML ($35.95) $31.90 special
Grapelive 92 points “One of my favorites and a heroic winegrower, Laura Lorenzo is making some amazing wines and her 2018s look set to take her fame to the next level [under the label “Daterra Viticultores. The winery is] based in the remote Ribeira Sacra, which means “Sacred Banks” in Gallego, the local Galician dialect… Her latest Tabernario Tinto with its beautiful texture, bright flavors and mineral details that make it drink as fine as a Premier Cru Burgundy. [The Tinto is] made from old vine parcels of 60% Menci´a, 30% Alicante Bouschet and 10% Palomino… all sourced from Lorenzo’s organic vines in Amandi and Val do Bibei, both sleep river valley locations set on primarily granite soils with a covering of sand and some loams… I was thrilled with the transparent dark fruited profile with layers of Mencia led characteristics showing black cherry, wild plum, cranberry and tart currant fruits, fresh garden herbs, star anise, crushed stones, a touch of leathery earth and light cedar as well as delicate floral tones. The Ribeira Sacra [region], a favorite of the Romans, who came to this green, northwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula more than 2,000 years ago and were the first to plant and terrace the slopes to grape vines, almost forgotten in modern times due to the harsh working conditions this place is now one of the wine world’s most exciting places. This light medium bodied Tabernario red has the charm of Cru Beaujolais, like Fleurie, especially with its pretty details and a bit of northern Rhone crunchiness and game, even though as mentioned above this vintage has a satiny feel that reminds me of a Pinot. Lorenzo is committed to holistic and natural methods in the vineyards and in her cellar, looking to capture the purest form of terroir and of the vineyard. She works with indigenous or wild yeast exclusively and mostly whole cluster with elevage in only used well-seasoned oak casks of various sizes and does no adjustments other that the absolute minimum dose of SO2, all unfined and unfiltered. The 2018 vintage was not kind to Lorenzo and she lost a huge amount of grapes to severe weather, but she persevered and crafted a beauty with this Tabernario which was harvested by hand in early September…. The Ribeira Sacra is a cool Atlantic zone with granitic, schist and slate soils predominating here in a region that looks more like Germany’s river wine growing areas than most of Spain, which helps to explain Laura’s wines that have lower alcohols, this one is just 12%, and that are highly aromatic, zesty, quaffable and elegant in style. The Daterra offerings are wildly addictive and unique. I highly recommend checking them out!”
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German Spatlese Rieslings from $35-$50
In Stock Now:
The VDP Auctions represent the finest lots of a producer’s wines.
Weingut Bastgen Kestener Paulinshofberg Riesling Spatlese 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Auction Wine
Mosel Fine Wines 90 points “This offers a rather ripe nose of grapefruit, pineapple, Limoncello, bergamot, herbs, almond and spices. The wine is nicely made and fruity on the palate and leaves a clean and fresh feel in the zesty but powerful finish. This is nicely made in a very enjoyable style! 2023-2035”
Importer note “Yellow color with green highlights. Beautiful peach aromas on the nose, rich and ripe fruits on the mouth with a refreshing acidity and honey notes. A very pleasing wine. The estate, founded in 1850, is located in the tiny hamlet of Monzel, not far from Bernkastel-Keus, overlooking the steep sloping vineyards and Mosel River. The average total production is 3,300 cases, and their wine is sold mainly in Germany, Switzerland, U.K and the U.S. The current owners are Armin Vogel (husband) and Mona Bastgen (wife) who began working in the winery in 1993. Mona and Armin meticulously tend 4.5 ha (11.11 acres) of which 80% is Riesling. The soil is made of slate. The vineyards are located in Kesten and Brauneberg, on a steep terrace, and planted to 50-year old vines. The vines produce very small, ripe berries that are very tasty.”
Diel is one of the most respected producers within Germany, and this is one of their signature bottles.
Schlossgut Diel Dorsheimer Pittermannchen Riesling Spatlese 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2015 Pittermännchen Riesling Spätlese opens clear and slatey on the nose, with flinty, dusty flavors and lovely purity. On the palate, this is a very piquant and refined Riesling with lots of juice, finesse and elegance. It’s a light-hearted wine with white fruit flavors and good salinity. You can enjoy the 2015 for more than 20 years yet I’d keep it under cork for another 4-5 years.”
The VDP Auctions represent the finest lots of a producer’s wines.
Weingut Bastgen Kestener Paulinshofberg Riesling Spatlese 2015 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 7 bottles in stock now
Auction Wine
Mosel Fine Wines 90 points “This offers a rather ripe nose of grapefruit, pineapple, Limoncello, bergamot, herbs, almond and spices. The wine is nicely made and fruity on the palate and leaves a clean and fresh feel in the zesty but powerful finish. This is nicely made in a very enjoyable style! 2023-2035”
Importer note “Yellow color with green highlights. Beautiful peach aromas on the nose, rich and ripe fruits on the mouth with a refreshing acidity and honey notes. A very pleasing wine. The estate, founded in 1850, is located in the tiny hamlet of Monzel, not far from Bernkastel-Keus, overlooking the steep sloping vineyards and Mosel River. The average total production is 3,300 cases, and their wine is sold mainly in Germany, Switzerland, U.K and the U.S. The current owners are Armin Vogel (husband) and Mona Bastgen (wife) who began working in the winery in 1993. Mona and Armin meticulously tend 4.5 ha (11.11 acres) of which 80% is Riesling. The soil is made of slate. The vineyards are located in Kesten and Brauneberg, on a steep terrace, and planted to 50-year old vines. The vines produce very small, ripe berries that are very tasty.”
Diel is one of the most respected producers within Germany, and this is one of their signature bottles.
Schlossgut Diel Dorsheimer Pittermannchen Riesling Spatlese 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2015 Pittermännchen Riesling Spätlese opens clear and slatey on the nose, with flinty, dusty flavors and lovely purity. On the palate, this is a very piquant and refined Riesling with lots of juice, finesse and elegance. It’s a light-hearted wine with white fruit flavors and good salinity. You can enjoy the 2015 for more than 20 years yet I’d keep it under cork for another 4-5 years.”
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Dönnhoff’s Hermannshole is one of the most complex wines in the world. Moreso with age.
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese 2016 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 96 points “Another 2016 Spätlese from Dönnhoff that’s still a bit shy on the nose, but on the palate it’s like a huge glittering diamond with more facets flashing many colors. An extremely long super-mineral finish that is impeccably clean in spite of the generous grape sweetness in this masterpiece of elegance. Better from 2018 with decades of ageing potential. Made from organic grapes and Fair’n Green certified.”
David Schildknecht-Vinous 94 points “A fascinatingly multifaceted nose incorporates wet stone, leather and almond extract with more familiar white peach, quince and lime. A seductive aura of lily-like perfume hangs over this entire performance. The palate is palpably dense despite alcoholic levity, and subtly creamy while retaining animating primary juiciness. In common with its Brücke sibling, this leans more toward quince as it launches into a finish of honeyed richness – a function of nearly overripe but also nearly botrytis-free berries – yet retaining freshness as well as transparency to crystalline stony mineral nuances. “Under the right conditions,” observed Dönnhoff, “Hermannshöhle delivers something extra in the realm of sweetness, and for that you need cool nights that preserve slightly harder acidity” – which 2016 delivered in spades. Look for significantly more from this bottling after it’s had a decade or so in bottle.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Nahe Riesling Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Spätlese is bright, fresh and coolish-piquant on the nose, with flinty and slightly reductive aromas. Lush and piquant on the palate, this is a generous, mouth-filling Spätlese with a long, piquant and spicy-mineral finish. The Hermannshöhle is more dense and rich on the palate, the Brücke more light, delicate and finessed.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese 2017 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 99 points “Most people who drink wine know what a ripe peach tastes like. However, this wine gives you a completely new appreciation of the meaning of the word “peach”. Beyond that, it possesses subtlety that is extremely rare anywhere in the world of food and wine. From organically grown grapes. Fair’n Green certification. Absolutely delicious now, but could be held for decades.”
David Schildknecht – Vinous 95 points “Lily perfume on the nose of this Hermannshöhle reminds me both of the corresponding 2016 and of this year’s Kirschheck. That is accompanied by ripe, fresh and high-toned, distillate-like notes of pear and quince. The glossy palate is lusciously fruited, billowingly perfumed, as well as seductively glossy and creamy in texture. Piquancy of pear pip and hints of anise add counterpoint, while fresh grapefruit and white peach contribute welcomed bright juiciness en route to a ravishingly-sustained, impeccably-balanced finish. The covering term “mineral” will for now have to serve the strikingly transparent finish, which becomes more intriguing the longer the wine takes on air.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese 2016 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 96 points “Another 2016 Spätlese from Dönnhoff that’s still a bit shy on the nose, but on the palate it’s like a huge glittering diamond with more facets flashing many colors. An extremely long super-mineral finish that is impeccably clean in spite of the generous grape sweetness in this masterpiece of elegance. Better from 2018 with decades of ageing potential. Made from organic grapes and Fair’n Green certified.”
David Schildknecht-Vinous 94 points “A fascinatingly multifaceted nose incorporates wet stone, leather and almond extract with more familiar white peach, quince and lime. A seductive aura of lily-like perfume hangs over this entire performance. The palate is palpably dense despite alcoholic levity, and subtly creamy while retaining animating primary juiciness. In common with its Brücke sibling, this leans more toward quince as it launches into a finish of honeyed richness – a function of nearly overripe but also nearly botrytis-free berries – yet retaining freshness as well as transparency to crystalline stony mineral nuances. “Under the right conditions,” observed Dönnhoff, “Hermannshöhle delivers something extra in the realm of sweetness, and for that you need cool nights that preserve slightly harder acidity” – which 2016 delivered in spades. Look for significantly more from this bottling after it’s had a decade or so in bottle.”
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2016 Nahe Riesling Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Spätlese is bright, fresh and coolish-piquant on the nose, with flinty and slightly reductive aromas. Lush and piquant on the palate, this is a generous, mouth-filling Spätlese with a long, piquant and spicy-mineral finish. The Hermannshöhle is more dense and rich on the palate, the Brücke more light, delicate and finessed.”
Weingut Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese 2017 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 99 points “Most people who drink wine know what a ripe peach tastes like. However, this wine gives you a completely new appreciation of the meaning of the word “peach”. Beyond that, it possesses subtlety that is extremely rare anywhere in the world of food and wine. From organically grown grapes. Fair’n Green certification. Absolutely delicious now, but could be held for decades.”
David Schildknecht – Vinous 95 points “Lily perfume on the nose of this Hermannshöhle reminds me both of the corresponding 2016 and of this year’s Kirschheck. That is accompanied by ripe, fresh and high-toned, distillate-like notes of pear and quince. The glossy palate is lusciously fruited, billowingly perfumed, as well as seductively glossy and creamy in texture. Piquancy of pear pip and hints of anise add counterpoint, while fresh grapefruit and white peach contribute welcomed bright juiciness en route to a ravishingly-sustained, impeccably-balanced finish. The covering term “mineral” will for now have to serve the strikingly transparent finish, which becomes more intriguing the longer the wine takes on air.”
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The next best price is $63.98
The next best price is $63.98
It’s hard to think of a more impressive young wine than Brucke Spatlese.
Weingut Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 96 points “So light and filigree with such a delicate white-peach note. Yet, behind the almost weightless exterior is enormous depth and an almost savage mineral freshness at the finish. From organically grown grapes. Fair’n Green certification. Drink or hold.”
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Weingut Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese 2018 750ML ($59.95) $41.90 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Decanter 95 points “The 1.1ha vineyard of Brücke is a monopole of the estate. The vines are planted in loess loam soils over a slate bedrock, and its sheltered location down by the river is perfect for producing spätlese. The 2018 has a ripe green apple character on the nose, joined by notes of white flowers and a touch of honey. The palate is incredibly intense and limey, sweet yet elegant and balanced. It almost appears to be drier than the Leistenberg Kabinett at this early stage, such is its impeccable harmony, absorbing its 85g/l of residual sugar effortlessly. Snap this up when you can, but don’t touch it for a good six years or more. Barrel sample.”
John Gilman 95 points “Long-time fans of the two flagship Spätlesen from the Dönnhoff family are going to have a lot of fun over the coming decades debating the relative merits of these two brilliant wines from 2018! The Brücke Spätlese offers up a brilliant bouquet of apple, passion fruit, tangerine, fruit blossoms, salty slate minerality and a topnote of bee pollen. On the palate the wine is medium-full, very pure and precise, with a great core, dancing acids and a very long, complex and filigreed finish. This has bottomless depth and is extremely light on its feet. 2023-2075.”
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The average listed price is $54
The average listed price is $54
Prum is always a reliable producer for legendary wine.
Joh. Jos. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spatlese 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 95 points “The 2016 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese (AP 08 17) is discreet and smoky on the deep, well-defined nose. Juicy-piquant and salty on the well-structured and refreshingly mineral palate, the Himmelreich is tight and expressive, with the sweetness superbly balanced by the spicy, grippy phenols/minerals. This is a really complex Spätlese that is highly stimulating today and will still be so in 20 or 30 years.”
David Schildknecht – Vinous 94 points “This is another Prüm 2016 seductively loaded with floral perfume, but here it’s bittersweet, suggesting gentian and iris as well as honeysuckle. The palate and superbly sustained finish deliver delicacy allied to silken richness and gloss, featuring intense pear, pineapple, quince and almond paste flavors together with striking transparency to stony and maritime mineral nuances.”
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The best value for stunning Nahe Riesling? Kruger-Rumpf delivers again.
Kruger-Rumpf Munsterer Pittersberg Riesling Spatlese GK 2018 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
David Schildknecht-Vinous 95 points “Picked at the end of October but with minimal botrytis, this certainly stands in magnificent contradiction to my vintage generalization that picking past the middle of that month was not advantageous. Unlike its counterpart form the Dautenpflänzer, this was raised in cask, and was allowed to ferment to a lower level of residual sugar. It comes off as a riper, richer sibling of the corresponding Im Pitterberg Riesling Kabinett, its gloss merging with creaminess, yet with fresh white peach and lime juiciness complementing ripe quince and serving for animation and refreshment. The finish is unexpectedly electrifying in its vibrancy and mouthwateringly saline, and gains stimulating counterpoint from peach kernel piquancy, peach fuzz prickle and a crystalline sense of stone-showering mineral impingement. (If there is a second, “regular” Im Pitterberg Spätlese from this vintage, I am not aware of it.)”
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The next best price is $49.99
The next best price is $49.99
The Ruwer’s brightness and zip come through in spades in this wine.
Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Spatlese 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 96 points “Great harmony and originality, as well as enormous concentration, making this a stunning Spätlese. The mineral freshness at the finish is literally breathtaking. Drink or hold.”
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One of the defining wineries of the Pfalz, Muller-Catoir was lights-out in ’17—and this is one of their highlights.
Muller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten Riesling Spatlese 2017 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 33 bottles in stock now
Stuart Pigott 95 points “Stunning nectarine, peach and papaya character, together with lovely succulence and enormous vitality, make this a breathtaking sweet Spätlese with a finish that’s straight as a laser beam and super-clean. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
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Frankly, this stuff is hard enough to get as it is, we probably shouldn’t say anything about it.
Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spatlese 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 13 bottles in stock now
John Gilman 93+ points “The Himmelreich has produced a beautiful Spätlese as well in 2018, and this is destined to be a long-lived and superb bottle. The complex nose is vibrant and refined, offering up scents of lime, pear, a nice touch of orange zest, bee pollen, elder flowers, lovely minerality and a topnote of citrus blossoms. On the palate the wine is medium-full, pure and zesty, with lovely inner tension between its beautiful fruit tones and mineral undertow. The finish is long, focused and bouncy, with lovely lift, cut and grip. 2022-2075. 93+.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “A luscious, velvety spätlese, featuring concentrated ripe apricot, orange marmalade and graham cracker notes, balanced by intense acidity, with hints of honey and sage cream on the finish. Very giving right now, and will only get better. Best from 2021 through 2036. —A.Z.”
The Rheingau is the historic king of German Riesling for a reason—powerful, aristocratic wines like this.
Weingut Josef Spreitzer ‘303’ Oestricher Lenchen Riesling Spatlese 2018 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 92 points “Concentrated, with peach, orange peel and spice aromas and flavors set on a velvety texture. Nicely structured, showing complexity, focus and length due to the acidity, which will help this age gracefully. Best from 2022 through 2036. 50 cases imported.”
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?”
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The Doctor is one of the most famous vineyards in the Mosel.
Wwe Dr. H. Thanisch Bernkasteler Doctor Riesling Spatlese 2016 750ML ($59.95) $45 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2016 Berncasteler Doctor Riesling Spätlese shows a complex, smoky, fresh and elegant bouquet but is still slightly reductive. Piquant and mineral on the palate, with generous fruit, this is an elegant, crystalline and complex Doctor Spätlese with a dense, salty, very expressive and persistent finish. Keep this wine for at least a decade. Tasted March 2018.”
David Schildknecht – Vinous 92 points “A product of picking on three different days, this “regular” Doctor Spätlese bottling (there are two others from Thanisch in 2016) leads with alkaline, saline scents of sea breeze such as I can’t recall before from this site. With that comes a greenhouse-like allusion to flowering and leafing things, as well as intimations of the fresh apple, pear, and honeydew melon that dominate on the glossy palate. This is startlingly cool and northerly-fruited in personality for a Doctor Spätlese, which complements the sense of delicacy delivered on a lingering finish transparent to alkaline and stony nuances. And in enjoying it, I didn’t once think about sweetness, because its presence is modest and entirely supportive.”
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“Doctor, ain’t there nothin’ I can take? / I said, Doctor, to relieve this bellyache?”
Wwe Dr. H. Thanisch Bernkasteler Doctor Riesling Spatlese 2017 750ML ($54.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 95+ points “The coolish, precise and elegant 2017 Berncasteler Doctor Riesling Spätlese (AP 3 18) opens to very fine tropical fruit aromas intermixed with the smoky scents of crushed black rocks. Lush and finessed on the palate, this is a firmly structured, very elegant and persistently mineral Doctor Spätlese whose salty-piquant finish and fine, crystalline structure develops enormous length and tension but also finesse and a highly elaborate style. Highly stimulating. Tasted in March 2019.”
Mosel Fine Wines 93 points “The 2017er Berncasteler Doctor Spätlese offers a ripe nose of yellow peach, orange blossom, apricot, coconut cream, pear and smoke, all wrapped into some toffee. The wine is compact and still on the sweet side and intense on the palate. Riper fruits including apricot, mango and melon kick in and make for a delicately creamy and still rather sweet feel in the finish. This big backward offer will need more than a decade to absorb its sweetness and develop the inherent finesse of Doctor wines. 2032-2057.”
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