Featured New Arrival
Domaine Durand’s Delicious New Wines
A Follow Up to Our Fastest-Selling Chianti
La Fortuna Favors the Bold
New Arrivals
Including Arnot-Roberts,
Rollin, Prudhon, Forey, and More!
Subscriber Special Recap
J. Christoffel Jr. – 10% Off Through 10AM Sunday
Collector’s Corner
The Majesty of Gaja
Domaine Durand’s Delicious New Wines
It’s become harder and harder to find this sort of value in the Northern Rhone. The market locates inefficiencies quicker than ever and exciting producers jump in price in the blink of an eye. Nevertheless, here we are—these are fantastic bottles at prices far below what comparable St. Joseph and Cornas producers are selling for.
Stylistically, these wines are right in the pocket, so to speak. It’s hard to find Northern Rhone wines that combine soul and polish—it seems as if most of the new wines we taste are either hyper glossy or very rustic. To hit that sweet spot, where your wines speak very loudly of place but are elegant, drinkable and age-worthy—that’s special indeed. To make those sorts of wines at the prices that the Durands charge seems almost unthinkable. You owe it to yourself to check these out and drink these up before they become yet another casualty of rising Northern Rhone demand.
“Consistently brilliant wines emerge from Domaine Durand, which is run with incredible talent and passion by Eric and Joël Durand… while the winemaking is relatively modern, these are classic, pure, beautifully made wines that speak clearly to their region and terroir.” –Jeb Dunnuck
In Stock Now
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Confidence, Rhone 2017 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Decanter 94 points “From 30-year-old vines on granite soils, the fruit for this wine is 30% whole-bunch fermented, the matured for 18 months in barriques, 30% new and the rest fairly recent. Deep, inky fruits on the nose lead to a concentrated, juicy, profound palate, veering towards being extracted but with well balanced acidity and fine, bright, crisp tannins. It has very persistent fruit, with an ingrained, toothsome structure. A wine that could play rugby at a professional level but also do some modelling on the side.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Well-packed, featuring fig, steeped black currant and dark plum fruit flavors that slowly meld with warm cast iron, dark olive and earth notes. Shows tannic drive through the finish, with sanguine and floral echoes adding range and contrast to the muscular profile. Best from 2022 through 2040. 140 cases made, 30 cases imported.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 92-95 points “The Durands’ top cuvée, the 2017 Cornas Confidence comes from mature vines on the family’s most granitic sites. Aged in 30% new oak, it combines notes of crushed stone, resiny herbs, almond paste, raspberries, blueberries and cassis into a harmonious whirl of intense flavor. Full-bodied, deep and concentrated, it’s also richly tannic, picking up hints of mocha on the lengthy finish.”
Domaine Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes, Rhone 2017 1.5L ($99.95) $89 special
Wine Spectator 93 points “Solidly built, with a strong chalky spine buried deep in the core of dark plum and blackberry fruit. Smoldering tobacco, dark olive and warm cast iron accents fill in throughout. Frankly grippy, so some patience in the cellar is required. Best from 2022 through 2040. 800 cases made, 90 cases imported.”
The average price is $44
Wine Spectator 92 points “Offers a ripe, slightly toasty profile, featuring plum and blackberry fruit, tinged with ganache and alder notes. Shows some heft, with the toast clinging to the finish. A light violet echo gives this some needed lift at the end. Best from 2020 through 2030. 875 cases made, 120 cases imported.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 91 points “From the Durands’ young vines, the 2017 Cornas Premices is an intentionally early-drinking cuvée. Pencil shavings accent red plums in this full-bodied, creamy-textured wine that is amazingly gulpable for a Cornas. Drink it on the young side, over the next 7-8 years.”
Decanter 93 points “Sourced from 15- to 30-year-old vines on granite soils towards the south of the appellation, the fruit for this wine is all destemmed, spending 12 months maturing in barriques and demi-muids, 15% new. It has a lovely purity of expression, the fruit using the oak for support, not influence. It’s a medium-bodied, very fresh expression with no overextraction and an elegant finish. It has refined tannins and good persistence. An unforced, easy to drink with with good typicity.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Bright and juicy, with lots of blackberry and plum compote flavors, inlaid with licorice and singed apple wood notes. A lively briar accent through the finish offsets the toast. Best from 2021 through 2030. 2,000 cases made, 450 cases imported.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91 points “Bright purple. Spice-accented blue fruit and floral scents, along with hints of cured tobacco and olive. Broad and fleshy in the mouth, offering sappy boysenberry and bitter cherry flavors that turn sweeter on the back half. Youthful, gripping tannins add shape to the finish, which hangs on with strong, dark-fruit-driven tenacity.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Fleshy and forward in feel, with a hint of ganache leading steeped plum and raspberry fruit along, accented by singed alder and licorice root notes. The solidly grippy finish pulls everything together. Needs a touch of cellaring. Best from 2022 through 2032. 340 cases made, 50 cases imported.”
Love Rhone wines? Visit our online shop to browse our Rhone reds & whites!
A Follow Up to Our Fastest-Selling Chianti
In Stock Now:
Castello Di Monsanto Monrosso, Toscana IGT 2016 750ML ($17.95) $15.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Castello Di Monsanto Monrosso, Toscana IGT 2016 2016 750ML ($199.95) $169 special (that’s only $14.08/bottle —the lowest listed price on the West Coast!)
Wine Spectator 92 points “Bursts with ripe cherry, blackberry and floral aromas and flavors, driven by lively acidity and an elegant frame. Balanced, yet firmly supported by dense tannins. Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Sangiovese.-BS”
Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($27.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($179.95) $119 special (that’s only $19.83/bottle!)
James Suckling 94 points “Shows raspberries, pepper and black olives. Medium to full body, round tannins and a fresh, crisp finish. Linear and bright. Classic style. Drink now.”
Wine Spectator 93 points “Rich and supple, laced with black currant, black cherry, violet and earth notes. Vibrant, firming up as the fruit-stained aftertaste lingers. Best from 2020 through 2033. 6,000 cases made, 300 cases imported.”
La Fortuna’s vineyard sits smack dab in the middle of some of the best names in Brunello, just barely west of the town of Montalcino. Casanova di Neri is barely more than a half mile east on the same ridge and Fuligni is the next address on their street. Luciani and Lazzeretti sit on the other sides of the vineyard, too—by all accounts this should be a Very Famous Estate.
Instead, La Fortuna’s wines represent a bargain for Brunello. The winemaking shows lots of skill, but their humble personalities have kept prices reasonable, at least for now. These are some of the most striking wines in the DOCG, with bold, rich flavors and lots of complexity. Until the secret gets out, these wines represent some of the best opportunities in Brunello di Montalcino to drink fantastic wines (especially the 97 point Riserva) at below market prices
In Stock Now:
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 750ML ($699.95) $564 special (that’s only $94/bottle!)
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 1.5L ($259.95) $219 special, 5 magnums in stock now
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2012 3L ($499.95) $428 special, 3 double-magnums in stock now
Wine Spectator 97 points “Perfumed, with wild herb aromas and a subtle mix of strawberry and cherry fruit. Vibrant and dense, with fine acidity driving the long finish. Though elegant, there is intensity and fine energy on the aftertaste. Best from 2022 through 2028.”
This is the only listing for a double-magnum in the USA today!
James Suckling 93 points “Some ash and spice undertones to the cherry and berry aromas. Medium to full body, silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Linear and focused. Better in 2020.”
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($119.95) $88 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($619.95) $499 special (that’s only $83.17/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 95 points “Fluid and fruity, supported by a matrix of dense tannins, this features a fine texture and structure, offsetting the saturated flavors of cherry, red berry, leather, iron and tar. Stays focused while cruising to a lingering finish. Really youthful, intense and long. Best from 2022 through 2045. 330 cases made, 200 cases imported.”
James Suckling 95 points “Very attractive and intense aromas of ripe black cherries and plums, leading to a palate that has a quite firm tannin core and finishes with a convincing serving of rich, ripe darker plums and berries. Drink or hold.”
Previously Sold Out, Re-Arriving ETA March
La Fortuna Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany 2013 750ML ($69.95) $56 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 93 points “Aromas of blackberry and cherry with flowers. Smoky. Hot stone. Medium to full body, firm and fresh tannins and a delicious finish. Beautiful now but needs a year or two to soften.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Starts out with cherry, iron and tobacco flavors, before firming up, with a solid structure. A kernel of fruit holds steady as this red unfolds on the lingering finish. Best from 2022 through 2036. 2,200 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.”
Winery Note ” The iconic Coastlands Vineyard was planted by the Cobb family in 1989, just four miles from the Pacific Ocean above the small hamlet of Occidental on the Sonoma Coast. This epic site is at the absolute edge of where the Pinot Noir grape can ripen in California, and the resulting wine is a looking glass into that upbringing. The vineyard is situated at 1200’ elevation on a western facing slope with views to the ocean and unobstructed interactions with the weather that rolls in off the coast. The difficult nature of farming in this vineyard ensures low yields and a perennial struggle for the vines that cling to these exposed slopes. The Coastlands vineyard is farmed by local viticultural expert Eric Neil and remains a true benchmark site. Planting this vineyard in such a demanding and severe locale was a bold step that set a high bar for Pinot Noir on the Sonoma Coast. The resulting wines are deep and structured and have the potential to improve in the cellar for years to come.”
Winery note “Legan Vineyard was planted to Pinot Noir in 1980 on a hillside above the tiny town of Corralitos in the southern Santa Cruz mountains. It stands amidst dense redwoods at 1,200 feet elevation, overlooking the Eureka Canyon which ushers in cooling breezes from Monterey Bay. According to recent geologic research done on the property, the nutrient-poor, fine sandy-loam soil was exposed when an ancient landslide occurred over 2000 years ago. We are fortunate and thankful that Tom Legan took the risk to plant this remote site and that is thriving under the meticulous care of viticultural master, Prudy Foxx. The wines we have made to date from Legan are light on their feet, delicately structured, and elegantly vibrant. Retention of 100% whole clusters during fermentation lends an earthy spiciness to our 2018, which harmonizes beautifully with the intense fruit-driven personality of this amazing vineyard.”
Domaine Rollin Pere et Fils Pernand-Vergelesses, Cote de Beaune 2015 750ML ($49.95) $33 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Burghound 87-90 points “This too sports a ripe and ultra-fresh nose of liqueur-like red berries and soft floral nuances. The cool, pure and equally refreshing well-detailed middle weight flavors also reflect notes of minerality and rusticity though in this case the latter is quite subtle. This too is quite pretty.”
Domaine Rollin Pere et Fils Aloxe-Corton, Cote de Beaune 2015 750ML ($69.95) $49 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Burghound 89-91 points – Outstanding Top Value “Here the wood is no longer subtle though it stops short of dominating the menthol, spice, earth and game-inflected liqueur-like red and dark pinot fruit scents. The rich, full-bodied and overtly powerful flavors brim with dry extract that coats the mouth and buffers the moderately firm tannic spine shaping the lingering finish. An excellent Aloxe villages.”
Domaine Forey Pere et Fils Vosne-Romanee, Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Burghound 89 points – Outstanding “All but invisible wood easily allows the much earthier and slightly riper dark currant and humus aromas that are cut with a note of herbal tea to shine. The velvety, round and delicious middle weight flavors possess a supple mid-palate though the firm and mildly rustic finish makes it clear that this will require a few years of bottle age first plus it should help to develop a bit more overall depth as well.”
Stephen Tanzer “Bright medium red. Perfumed scents of red and black fruits lifted by spices; much more aromatic today than the Nuits villages. In a fine-grained, elegant style; not hugely concentrated or fleshy but the juicy raspberry and cherry fruit flavors convey good energy. The tannins are nicely supported by tangy berry fruit. This village wine tightened up dramatically with air.”
Domaine Forey Pere et Fils Vosne-Romanee, Cote de Nuits 2016 750ML ($79.95) $59 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Burghound 89 points “Here too there is just enough reduction to shave the top notes from the black currant, violet, spiced tea and a whiff of wood toast. The notably more refined medium weight flavors possess both fine intensity and delineation while exhibiting good length on the sappy finish. This is very Vosne in style and I particularly like the sleek mouthfeel. A quality Vosne villages.”
Domaine Forey Pere et Fils Nuits-Saint-Georges, Cote de Nuits 2015 750ML ($89.95) $59 special, 9 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer “(racked into tonneaux before the 2016 harvest, after beginning in 50% new barriques): Deep red-ruby. Medicinal black fruits and licorice on the nose. Fat and very ripe, even a bit heavy, conveying a fruit compote quality to the flavors of plum, blackberry and chocolate. This rather liqueur-like 2015, which Forey planned to bottle in December, finishes a bit aggressive, with cocoa powder and licorice notes.”
Burghound “This is notably ripe but there is good freshness to the mix of various red berries and earth aromas. There is better delineation to the medium weight flavors that conclude in a complex if warm, austere and overtly rustic finale. This too will need a few years of age.”
Domaine Jean Chauvenet Les Damodes, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru, 2012 750ML ($99.95) $79 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Burghound 89-92 points “There is enough reduction present to knock down the nose and render it difficult to assess. By contrast there is good freshness and intensity to the detailed and minerally flavors that possess a refined texture before culminating in a spicy and mildly austere finish. The close proximity to Vosne is very much in evidence.”
Subscriber Special Recap
J. Christoffel Jr. 10% Off Through 10AM Sunday
The Jos. Christoffel Jr. winery was related by marriage to the Prum family. (Alas, last year Marcus Molitor purchased the winery and their holdings, so we have to use the past tense.) They were a wonderful middle Mosel estate, run by Karl Josef Christoffel, that made very traditional wines and sold them for incredibly reasonable prices. All the wines here were fermented with natural yeasts and aged in the traditional 1000L Fuder casks. The resulting wines are complex and incredibly age-worthy, but like most Mosel Riesling, delicious today.
Among Riesling lovers, Christoffel Jr was best known for their luscious Auslesen (and Spatlesen) from the Erdener Pralat, Treppchen and Urziger Wurzgarten. Combining beautiful, exotic fruit with zesty acidity and profound age-worthiness, they’re steals even at our normal low pricing. Until we open Sunday morning, they’re even better.
10% Off All In Stock J. Christoffel Jr.
Subscriber-Only Special pricing will not display online or in your cart.
We will manually adjust pricing before finalizing your order.
Sale valid until Sunday, February 16th at 10AM PT
Some Highlights, In Stock Now:
Weingut Jos. Christoffel Jr. Erdener Pralat Riesling Auslese *** 2014 750ML ($59.95) $33 Displayed Price, $29.70 Subscriber Special
VinopolNote: Erderner Prälat occupies a mere 2.2 hectares. Entirely south-facing, the vineyard is surrounded by cliffs which insulate the vines – as a result, Prälat is one of the warmest plots in the region. Over time, it has also become one of the most sought-after vineyards. Given the limited space, only a few winemakers have access to the vineyard.
Importer note: The Christoffel family in Ürzig, is related by marriage to the Prüm family in Wehlen. The estate is run by Karl Josef Christoffel (KaJo) has an extensive library of well-aged wines. All wines are fermented in the traditional 1000 Liter barrels with the natural yeast. This gives the wines a great aging potential.
Mosel Fine Wines 94 points “This proves very delicate and rather restrained on the nose as scents of anise, yellow peach, smoke (bacon) and bergamot emerge from the glass. The wine only really reveals its intensity and complexity on the palate after some airing. Yet the finish is airy, light and pure. This terrify effort should develop into a great subtle Auslese in a decade or two. 2025-2050.”
David Schildknecht-Vinous 92 points “Christoffel is fond of saying that too few Würzgarten Rieslings live up to their name, meaning that they lack spice or herbal pungency (Würze). Leaving aside that “Würz” is actually a corruption of “Wirts” (from the expression for a restaurateur or tavern-keeper), he certainly has a point, and indeed his 2016 Spätlese displays Würze. Candied ginger accents its predominant scents and luscious palate presence of strawberry, apple and Persian melon. Glossy in feel and delightfully delicate, it finishes with invigoratingly incisive hints of cress and crystallized ginger lending counterpoint to the sheer sweet lusciousness of fruit.”
Mosel Fine Wines 92 points “This offers a rather reduced but quite elegant nose of fresh herbs and spices. The wine is nicely juicy and fresh, with some typical scents of brown sugar adding depth to the mid-palate. While being loaded with delicately ripe fruits and zesty flavors, the wine remains elegant and playful in the finish. 2023-2036.”
Looking for even more wines from J Christoffel Jr? We have another 12+ bottlings that we didn’t have space to list here. Just head to our online store to view the entire list.
10% Off All In Stock J. Christoffel Jr.
Subscriber-Only Special pricing will not display online or in your cart.
We will manually adjust pricing before finalizing your order.
Sale valid until Sunday, February 16th at 10AM PT
Benoit Dehu ‘La Rue des Noyers’, Champagne NV (2014) 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 93+ points “Benoit Déhu NV (2014) Extra Brut Cuvée La Rue des Noyers Non-Dosé is bright, powerful and tightly wound. A wine of energy and vibrancy, the 2014 is going to need at least a few years to be at its very best. Even so, its potential today is evident. The Meunier character is pronounced, but it is the wine’s salivating minerality that gives shape, focus and cut. What a gorgeous wine this. Disgorged on August 4, 2017 with no dosage.”
Importer note “Benoit is an eighth generation vigneron that returned to the family estate after working for Bollinger. He is committed to natural farming and aims to craft unadultered, pure Pinot Meunier. He purchased this 1.7 hectare vineyard and farms it biodynamically. The results are exceptional and we are thrilled to introduce Benoit’s work to our clients. The Cuvee La Rue de Noyers, named for the walnut trees that line the parcel, is a wine that will keep you intrigued and coming back for more. Organically farmed Pinot Meunier, 1.7 hectares farmed biodynamically. A quarter of the property is worked with a horse named Violette. Vinified in oak barrels, many of which are made from trees from the forest of Fossoy. No malo, no dosage, unfined and unfiltered.”
Championship Bottle Broken Radios Pinot Noir – Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley 2018 750ML ($24.95) $19.90 special, 17 bottles in stock now
Winery note “Broken Radios is a red wine made from the Whistling Ridge vineyard in the Ribbon Ridge AVA of the Willamette Valley. A cofermentation of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris on their skins, it drinks like something in the world of Cru Beaujolais fan fiction while retaining a spice quality that lets you know it’s from Ribbon Ridge. Whistling Ridge sits on the top of a hill in Ribbon Ridge, next to Beaux Freres and Patricia Green’s estate vineyard, yet the soils are much shallower than its neighbors and its place at the hilltop means the vineyard sees lots of wind. The result is a wine that combines the structure and spice of marine-sedimentary soils with a cooler disposition than you’d expect for the neighborhood. This wine is vivid, with a floral quality overlayed onto slightly tangy red and black fruit flavors. Like our other wines, this was fermented by native yeasts and we also decided to include about 25% whole clusters in the fermentation to give the wine a bit more savoriness and backbone. It aged in neutral barrel for 10 months before being racked off of its lees into a stainless tank for a final 3 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, 62 cases made.”
Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Frionnes, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($41.95) $36 special, 21+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Henri Prudhon & Fils Les Frionnes, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru 2015 750ML ($479.95) $389 special (that’s only $32.42/bottle —the lowest listed price in the country!)
Importer (Neal Rosenthal) Note “The Prudhons own a solid hectare of vines between 30 and 60 years of age in this premier cru that lies just to the north of “Les Perrieres.” In keeping with the Prudhon house style, “Frionnes” emphasizes the freshness and raciness of Saint-Aubin—there is virtually no new oak used in its elevage, and there’s a certain restraint and brightness to the fruit that feels self-assured and very terroir-loyal.”
Burghound “A spicy and again attractively fresh nose offers up notes of red currant, black raspberry and a hint of violet. The mouth feel of the medium-bodied flavors is also sappy and round with reasonably good vibrancy to the naturally sweet finale. This should be enjoyable young if that’s your preference.”
Don’t think twice, it’s alright.
Paolo Saracco Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($17.95) $14.90 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Ian D’Agata-Vinous 94 points “Luminous pale straw-green with golden tinges. Captivating aromas of orange blossom, lemon verbena, vanilla, sage and ripe grapefruit nectar. Dense, juicy and suave, presenting a multilayered, complex set of flavors similar to the aromas. The finish is very long, resonating with a floral topnote and delightful vibrancy. Outstanding, concentrated, complex and very pure Moscato d’Asti.”
If you want a Brunello to drink young, this is your guy, even if it’s technically a Rosso.
Azienda Agricola La Torre Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Grapelive 95 points “The 2016 is going to be legendary in Tuscany. We are seeing the top wines already getting unbelievably good press, but there are also some killer deals on lesser known wines, especially wines like this gorgeous deep fruited and elegant La Torre Rosso di Montalcino. [Such wines] are incredible and offer a wonderful value for much less than their Brunello version. Lighter on its feet than the Brunello(s) the Rosso [shows] style and grace, it shows a complex array of flavors and a sense of never-ending length with a beautiful rose petal perfume and exotic spices. This La Torre has, what it is cliche to say, Burgundy class in the glass with ripe tannins and a gorgeous garnet/ruby hue that seduces the senses with layers of black cherry, raspberry, strawberry and plum fruits to begin on its open and generous palate with gains structure with air as well as highlighting the background elements, mineral notes and light earthiness. Additionally there is classic anise, fine cigar tobacco wrapper, sandalwood and lingering dried flowers and cranberry/currant, making for a lovely Sangiovese wine that gets even better with food, bringing out more depth and fruit intensity. There is almost nothing to fault here and the detailing and mouth feel is exceptional in this remarkable Rosso di Montalcino. This is a wine that needs to be taken out of the “Baby Brunello” box; it is really next level stuff on its own. The La Torre winery was founded not all that long ago by Italian standards back in 1976 by Giuseppe Ananìa, who purchased the La Torre estate from the famous Ciacci family of Montalcino. Now Luigi Anania, Giuseppe’s son, is the present owner and producer of the wines of La Torre. The estate is located in the commune of La Sesta, approximately 8 kilometers south of Montalcino, which is in the highest altitude section of the Brunello appellation. La Torre make four main wines, all from organic vines: Brunello di Montalcino (with a Riserva in the best years as well), Rosso di Montalcino, with the Brunello and Rosso being exclusively Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello Clone) by law, as well as a Rosso di Toscano and a Rosso di Toscano “Ampelio” which have touches of Ciliegiolo and Alicante added to a mainline of Sangiovese. The wines are all made from all grapes that are de-stemmed prior to fermentations and only indigenous yeasts are used before an extended 20 maceration on the skins. Ferments are done in a combination of steel and oak with an 18 month elevage being in large oak casks of French origin, with only about 10% of the ultimate cuvée being aged in small French barrels. Made for more early drinking pleasure and a sublime vintage really show here and I absolute love this stuff. Judging it purely on its intent and delivery it is fantastic, drink this brilliantly crafted beauty over the next 3 to 5 years.”
The Majesty of Gaja
In Stock Now:
The 2006’s are epic chez Gaja. This is a wine to drink in a decade (at least) when it will be a star.
Gaja Costa Russi Langhe, Piedmont 2006 750ML ($499.95) $299 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Stephen Tanzer-Vinous 93 points “Good full red. Reticent strawberry and plum aromas are complicated by a medicinal component. Rounder and sweeter than the normale, but also showing excellent inner-mouth lift for all its fullness. This very broad, fine-grained wine finishes with a juicy quality and excellent structure. In spite of its firm tannins, this makes the young ’07 come off as a bit drier by comparison.”
Wine Advocate 92 points “The 2006 Langhe Costa Russi is a bit reticent at first, and two of the three bottles I tasted showed elements of reduction that eventually blew off. A gorgeous center of soft perfumed fruit lies behind the slightly unfocused bouquet. The wine reveals notable clarity and detail once it opens up in the glass, with dark cherries, flowers and minerals that linger on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2031.”
Gaja Costa Russi Barbaresco, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($499.95) $349 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 96 points “Soft contours, silky tannins and sweet, perfumed fruit are some of the signatures in the 2014 Costa Russi. As always, Costa Russi is the most polished and open-knit of these wines in its youth. Succulent fruit, hard candy and lifted, perfumed aromatics give the 2014 considerable early appeal, but I expect time in bottle will work its usual magic. Today, the 2014 is showing only the barest hint of its potential. Even in the early going, though, the Costa Russi is a totally sexy wine.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Costa Russi is a beautiful wine that delivers profound color saturation with deep ruby highlights and blackish intensity. I would describe the nose as being more horizontal rather than vertical, if that makes sense. In other words, the bouquet makes its approach with wide intensity and large-scale aromas of black fruit, spice, tar, leather and licorice. It offers fewer of the sudden high notes or moments of sharpness that you get in 2013. Despite the common perception that this was a very cool vintage, the fruit here actually tastes riper and rounder than you might expect. That’s because the vintage heat all came toward the end of the growing season, and the Gaja family left fruit on the vines to the end. In the mouth, the wine shows depth and finesse with some stubborn firmness at this young stage. It needs to flesh out further with more bottle aging.”
Wine Spectator 94 points “Tight and focused, this red features a beam of cherry, strawberry, leather, tobacco, tar and iron wrapped in the grip of dense, refined tannins. Fresh and balanced, showing plenty of energy on the resonant finish. Best from 2023 through 2040. 170 cases imported.”
We’re loving ’11 as a younger-drinking vintage. All charm and richness with softer edges.
Gaja Sori San Lorenzo Langhe, Piedmont 2011 750ML ($499.95) $399 special, 10 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world’s most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can’t be denied.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “The exciting 2011 Sori San Lorenzo is a wine of enormous beauty and grace. Gaia Gaja classifies her three single vineyard Langhe Nebbiolo wines as follows: Costa Russi is “flowers;” Sori Tildin is “fruit;” and San Lorenzo is “plant” (with more structure and a more compact feel). San Lorenzo does indeed boast a strong mineral component of pencil shavings and crushed granite, followed by red cherry and soft spice. The wine’s tannins start off harder than the other wines, but soften with time. Drink: 2018-2040.”
The average listed price is $468
Gaja Sori San Lorenzo Barbaresco, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($499.95) $349 special, 13 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 97+ points “The 2014 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo is the most virile and explosive of Gaja’s Barbarescos. Dark, brooding and powerful, with a huge spine of tannin, the San Lorenzo is utterly regal in the glass. Gravel, smoke, menthol, tar, licorice and a host of sepia-toned fruits build into a crescendo of aromas and flavors that is truly compelling. What a gorgeous wine this is.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Earthy notes lead off, followed by cherry, plum, graphite and tobacco flavors. Starts out broad and muscular, with a thick layer of tannins for support, yet gains elegance with aeration. A tad austere on the finish, but stays vibrant and long. Best from 2021 through 2036. 170 cases imported.”
Wine Advocate 95 points “Gaja’s 2014 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo is clearly at the beginning of a long and promising aging trajectory. At it’s core, it shows a pinch of nervous energy and inner tightness that will surely unravel and soften as this beautiful wine continues along its magical journey in time. Angelo Gaja and his family present spectacular results in this controversial 2014 vintage. They have risen far above most of their peers and have shown a keen ability to understand their site and the versatility of their cherished Nebbiolo grape. The variety sings with a loud and exuberant voice, first offering plenty of primary fruit like blackberry and dried cherry. It then follows up with savory earth and spice. This is a bright and youthful wine that is set steady for a long aging future.-Monica Larner”
This is the savory side of Gaja. Less about rich fruit (though it’s got that) than earth, spice and the forest.
Gaja Sori Tildin Barbaresco, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($499.95) $349 special, 2 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 96 points “The nose has it all here with fresh cranberry character, brambleberries and lavender intermingled with darker, more complex notes of cedar, nutmeg and cinnamon. Full body, so much vibrant acidity, tangy fruit, expansive yet tight tannins and a long, savory finish. Profound minerality. Delicious now but better in 2020.”
100% Serralunga in style, this is powerful and structured with massive richness to go along.
Gaja Sperss Langhe, Piedmont 2004 750ML ($599.95) $479 special, 1 bottle in stock now
Wine Spectator 99 points “Powerful and structured. Delicate aromas of sandalwood, blackberry, licorice and cherry follow through to a full body, with very chewy tannins and loads of pretty fruit and hints of vanilla. Sneaks up on you to deliver a red for aging. Massive. An amazing wine. Best after 2014. 1,500 cases made.”
Antonio Galloni 97 points “Reviewed May 2015. The 2004 Sperss is one of the most finessed wines I have tasted from Angelo Gaja’s property in Serralunga. The darkness and gravitas of Serralunga are tempered by the supreme elegance of the year. Dark red and black cherries, smoke, tobacco, menthol and licorice flow through on the deep, resonant finish. This is another powerhouse wine that has been given an extra level of refinement in 2004.”
Gaja Sperss Barolo, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($319.95) $219 special, 18 bottles in stock now
James Suckling 95 points “More forward and in a more earthly realm than the dizzying heights of the Conteisa this vintage, but it’s so endearing and immediately delights. The aromas range from elderberries and black cherries to brambleberries and Chinese spices. Full-bodied and structured with powerful tannins that encase bright and forthright blue fruit, which is polished over by a sheen of glimmering acidity. Long finish. Delicious now, but better in 2022.”
Wine Enthusiast 95 points “Underbrush, tobacco, toasted hazelnut, menthol and grilled herb aromas slowly take shape on this focused red. On the structured elegant palate, taut refined tannins and fresh acidity provide an ageworthy framework for raspberry compote, juicy Marasca cherry, orange zest, white pepper and star anise. It already has layers of depth and loads of finesse, but hold for even more complexity. Drink 2022–2030.”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 94 points “This is a slightly more subdued vintage of this legendary wine, albeit just as sophisticated as past editions. The 2014 Barolo Sperss opens to gorgeous aromas of dark fruit, wet earth and white truffle. The vineyards in Serralunga d’Alba produced much less fruit than average and suffered from bouts of downy mildew during the rainy seasons. But Serralunga d’Alba fruit is also harvested late, and that extra time was important for achieving grape ripeness targets. The wine presents depth and complexity within the context of a thinner vintage. Having said that, the bouquet is spectacular.”
Decanter 94 points “Sperss comes from two crus in Serralunga, and like Gaja’s Barbarescos it’s aged in a combination of barriques and large barrels. As so often is the case, it’s a wine that combines power and finesse. It has a subdued cherry nose with a touch of oak, leading to a palate which is rich, powerful and tannic, but not too assertive. It’s well balanced and fleshy, with lots of velvety texture and grain, and there’s still an underlying freshness and finesse. Very long finish.”
Gaja Alteni di Brassica Langhe, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($149.95) $99 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Case-6 Gaja Alteni di Brassica Langhe, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($699.95) $499 special (that’s only $83.17/bottle!)
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 91 points “The delightful 2015 Langhe Alteni di Brassica is a pure expression of Sauvignon Blanc. This is the only white wine in Angelo Gaja’s line that does not complete malolactic fermentation. The bouquet is exuberant and bright with green notes of salvia, wild oregano and white pepper. Those sharper tones are followed by bright layers of tropical fruit and zesty citrus. Drying mineral notes give sharp contours to the overall effect.”
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “Bright yellow-gold color. Complex aromas of yellow fruits, flowers and honey. Supple, fat and almost surprisingly sweet for this bottling, but with lively acidity guaranteeing freshness. Finishes with noteworthy persistence. I like this chardonnay’s combination of richness and verve, and prefer it to the 2006.”