|
|
 |
| |
Inventory updated: Wed, Dec 10, 2025 04:02 PM cst
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Australia |
| Penfolds |
2008 |
Grange (6x750ML) 
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,900.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 100 (2/2013): Deep purple-black in color, the 2008 Grange puts forward a very complex nose packed with aromas of mulberries, layers of baking spices, cloves and cinnamon with nuances of minced meat, anise, potpourri and whiffs of dried mint and chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, taut and very spicy in the mouth, it shows touches of sandalwood and Chinese five spice complementing the layers of dark fruit flavors. It is framed by firm, grainy tannins and a refreshing acid line before finishing very long with aniseed and lingering blackberry preserves notes. This is clearly a wonderfully opulent and a magic vintage for this label. Drink it from 2018 to 2035+. |
|
| Yarra Yering |
2016 |
Dry Red #1 (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$460.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Angelus |
2013 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,048.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Batailley |
2019 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$609.98 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Beychevelle |
2010 |
St. Julien (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$633.97 |
3 |
|
| |
JS 95 (11/2013): Beautiful aromas of blackberries, currants and flowers. Very aromatic. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and gorgeous fruit. It's polished and very refined. One of the best Beychevelles in years. Try in 2018.
WA 94 (2/2013): Showing better from bottle than it did from barrel, where it was also impressive, but not quite at this level, the 2010 Beychevelle displays sweet black currant, black cherry, foresty notes, medium to full-bodied texture with impressive purity and moderately high tannins (although they’ve softened considerably during the wine’s upbringing in barrel). Layered and rich for a Beychevelle, this wine should easily withstand three decades of cellaring. I would give it another 3-4 years of bottle age, but this is a fabulous effort from the first chateau one sees upon entering the appellation of St.-Julien.
NM 94 (1/2014): Tasted blind at the Southwold Bordeaux 2010 tasting. The Chateau Beychevelle 2010 has a comparatively opulent bouquet compared to its peers: more Pauillac in style with graphite tinged black fruit, boysenberry and blackcurrant, with a slight exotic note underneath - marmalade or even peach. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, ripe, succulent tannins. There is a fine line of acidity here, a gentle grip and a lovely spicy finish. One of Philippe Blanc's finest wines in recent years.
WS 93 (3/2013): Features a gutsy feel, displaying dark, roasted cedar and tobacco notes framing a core of steeped fig, blackberry paste and plum skin that rumbles through the tarry finish. Shows strong grip on the back end, with the briary edge extending nicely. Best from 2016 through 2035.
VM 91+ (5/2011): Good deep red. Lively aromas of cassis, black cherry, licorice and flowers. Gripping and energetic, with captivating flowers and spices lifting the medicinal dark berry, licorice and mineral flavors. More intense than usual for this property: the tannins are serious but suave and this very youthful wine appears to have the density of material for two or three decades of evolution in bottle. It may well ultimately merit a higher score. |
|
|
2010 |
St. Julien (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,660.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 95 (11/2013): Beautiful aromas of blackberries, currants and flowers. Very aromatic. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and gorgeous fruit. It's polished and very refined. One of the best Beychevelles in years. Try in 2018.
WA 94 (2/2013): Showing better from bottle than it did from barrel, where it was also impressive, but not quite at this level, the 2010 Beychevelle displays sweet black currant, black cherry, foresty notes, medium to full-bodied texture with impressive purity and moderately high tannins (although they’ve softened considerably during the wine’s upbringing in barrel). Layered and rich for a Beychevelle, this wine should easily withstand three decades of cellaring. I would give it another 3-4 years of bottle age, but this is a fabulous effort from the first chateau one sees upon entering the appellation of St.-Julien.
NM 94 (1/2014): Tasted blind at the Southwold Bordeaux 2010 tasting. The Chateau Beychevelle 2010 has a comparatively opulent bouquet compared to its peers: more Pauillac in style with graphite tinged black fruit, boysenberry and blackcurrant, with a slight exotic note underneath - marmalade or even peach. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, ripe, succulent tannins. There is a fine line of acidity here, a gentle grip and a lovely spicy finish. One of Philippe Blanc's finest wines in recent years.
WS 93 (3/2013): Features a gutsy feel, displaying dark, roasted cedar and tobacco notes framing a core of steeped fig, blackberry paste and plum skin that rumbles through the tarry finish. Shows strong grip on the back end, with the briary edge extending nicely. Best from 2016 through 2035.
VM 91+ (5/2011): Good deep red. Lively aromas of cassis, black cherry, licorice and flowers. Gripping and energetic, with captivating flowers and spices lifting the medicinal dark berry, licorice and mineral flavors. More intense than usual for this property: the tannins are serious but suave and this very youthful wine appears to have the density of material for two or three decades of evolution in bottle. It may well ultimately merit a higher score. |
|
| Ch. Brane-Cantenac |
2015 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$577.98 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96 (2/2018): The 2015 Brane-Cantenac is powerful, structured and explosive in feel. A deep, resonant wine, the 2015 boasts off the charts ripeness allied to formidable structure and tannic heft. I imagine the 2015 is going to need a number of years to become approachable and more than that to be at its best. The dark stone fruit, smoke, tobacco, spice and leather flavors pack a huge punch, but it is the wine's balance that places it among the elite on the Left Bank in 2015. Brane-Cantenac is a total pleasure bomb. I can't wait to taste it with a little bottle age. Antonio Galloni.
JD 94 (11/2017): The 2015 Château Brane-Cantenac checks in as a mix of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Carmenere brought up in roughly 75% new French oak. This medium to full-bodied beauty excels on all accounts and gives up gorgeous notes of blackcurrants, lead pencil, spice and hints of toasted bread. Polished, impeccably balanced, concentrated, and with ripe tannin, it’s a rock star in 2015 that can be drunk young or cellared for 20-25 years. Bravo!
WA 94 (2/2018): The 2015 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carménère. As usual, this Margaux takes a little time to open up in the glass, eventually revealing scents of blackberry, cedar, mint and a light sprinkling of pencil shavings. That minty element becomes more prominent with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and a fine line of acidity. I adore the harmony and texture of this Brane-Cantenac: very svelte and silky on the surface but underneath there is backbone and very fine focus. The finish has a touch of chalkiness, quite saline in the mouth with a long, persistent finish. What an outstanding Margaux this is going to be although like many great vintages it will require several years in bottle. |
|
| Dom. de Cambes |
2020 |
Bordeaux Superieur (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$320.97 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Canon |
2015 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$954.99 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 100 (2/2018): From the very beginning, the 2015 Canon has made an eloquent case for itself as one of the wines of the vintage. Multiple tastings from bottle only confirm what several early tastings hinted at: the 2015 Canon is simply extraordinary in every way. Sumptuous and exotic, with no hard edges and exceptional balance, the 2015 grabs hold of all the senses and never lets up. A rush of red fruit intermingled with floral notes, spice and smoke notes effortlessly runs up the wine's vertical structure as the 2015 thrills with every twist and turn. The 2015 Canon is a rare wine that is both hedonistic and intellectual - well, maybe it is a bit more hedonistic-leaning. It doesn't matter. Don't miss it. This 2015 is masterpiece from General Manager Nicolas Auderbert and his team at Canon. Antonio Galloni.
NM 100 (2/2018): The 2015 Canon was a benchmark wine that seemed to revitalize this historic estate. I was crossing my fingers that it would not disappoint in bottle and I am glad to say that it delivers the goods. It has a very intense bouquet (just as it showed out of barrel) with laser-like precision offering wild strawberry, raspberry preserve, wet limestone and hints of truffle. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, clean and fresh with pure black and red fruit whose every atom appears infused with minerals. The mouth is tingling long after the wine has exited and your brain is thinking...when is the next sip coming? It is frankly heads and shoulders above almost every Saint emilion this vintage, to reaffirm, a benchmark for this historic estate that will give pleasure to many over the coming years. Astonishing.
JS 100 (12/2018): Seductive. The nose draws you in deep: It’s like staring into a well of pristine dark cherries, dark plums, blackberries and mulberries. All the oak is perfectly subsumed. The palate’s flawless with immense depth and power and it’s so balanced as to appear to float. Immaculate fresh dark-berry and plum flavors. Silky and deep, ribbon-like finish. Perfect. Best from 2022.
JD 98+ (11/2017): One of the wines of the vintage is the 2015 Château Canon which is 72% Merlot and 28% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in 70% new French oak. It offers a perfect example of the old saying “iron fist in a velvet glove” and boasts gorgeous notes of black cherries, framboise, spring flowers and exotic spices. All these lead to a full-bodied, ultra-pure, seamless 2015 that marries incredible richness and depth with a sense of purity, elegance, and weightlessness that needs to be tasted to believed. This multi-dimensional, seamless 2015 needs forgotten for 4-5 years and will keep for three decades or more. Bravo!
WS 97 (3/2018): A plush, inviting style, with warmed fig and plum sauce notes taking the lead, picking up swaths of cocoa, tobacco and roasted alder along the way. Features plenty of pumping bass, but if you pay attention, there's a laser of chalky minerality driving the finish. When the baby flesh drops away, this will sail in the cellar for some time. Best from 2022 through 2045. 7,500 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Canon La Gaffeliere |
2019 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$863.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (4/2022): The 2019 Château Canon-La-Gaffelière is another brilliantly perfumed wine in the vintage that shines for its complexity, finesse, and nuances. Giving up awesome notes of red and black currants, tobacco, exotic flowers, cedarwood, and loamy earth, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, beautifully polished, integrated tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. This is serious juice that warrants at least 4-5 years of bottle age and will evolve for 30 to 40 years. (Drink between 2026-2067).
WA 96 (4/2022): The 2019 Canon la Gaffelière has turned out brilliantly, bursting from the glass with a dramatic bouquet of wild berries, blood orange, exotic spices, rose petals, violets and burning embers. Full-bodied, ample and layered, it's supple and perfumed, with a deep core of lively fruit, melting tannins and a long, saline finish. This contains the highest proportion of Cabernet Franc of any of Stephan Von Neipperg's wines, which no doubt helps to account for its singular personality.
VM 93 (2/2023): The 2019 Canon-la-Gaffelière is quite punchy and bold on the nose. Blackberry and raspberry fruit, cedar and mint emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with rounded tannins, quite plush yet cohesive, fanning out towards the velvety finish with a brush of white pepper on the aftertaste. One of the more approachable Saint-Émilion wines in this vintage. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. (Drink between 2024-2040). Neal Martin. |
|
| Ch. Cheval-Blanc |
2013 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,091.97 |
4 |
|
| |
JS 94 (2/2016): This is has a very beautiful structure and length for a 2013. Full to medium body, ultra fine tannins and a long and lively finish. Impressive. Racy and refined. Tight still. Better in 2018 but pretty now.
WS 93 (3/2016): Restrained at first, with a subtle tobacco leaf hint, this expands steadily and forcefully in the glass, revealing layers of warmed fig, macerated black currant and blackberry coulis fruit woven with notes of ganache, warm gravel and freshly brewed black tea. There's power in reserve, but this remains elegant overall. A great effort. Best from 2018 through 2028. 1,367 cases made.
NM 92 (10/2016): The 2013 Cheval Blanc, a blend of 49% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 48% Cabernet Franc (and that is the correct blend!), is darker in color than the 2013 Le Petit Cheval. It has a fragrant bouquet with raspberry preserves, wild strawberries and hints of truffle from the Cabernet Franc - one of the most pleasurable you will find in this vintage. The palate is smooth on the entry with sappy red berry fruit, nicely judged acidity, harmonious and lilting in style with good body and density on the finish. There is a huge difference between the deuxième and grand vin this year. Enjoy this fine Cheval Blanc over the next 10-15 years. |
|
| Ch. Clinet |
2011 |
Pomerol (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$973.97 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (4/2014): Clinet has produced a blockbuster wine, even in the lighter, less consistent vintage of 2011. It reveals a dense purple color as well as an abundance of black cherry, black currant and blackberry fruit intermixed with licorice, incense and a touch of camphor. Full-bodied, opulent and fleshy with a substantial finish, this showy, dramatic 2011 should drink well for 15-20 years. Brilliant!
NM 93-95 (4/2012): Tasted twice the second time at the property with Ronan Laborde. The Clinet 2011 is a blend of 85% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc picked from 7th September until 26th September. It has a ravishing bouquet with multi-layered, creamy dark fruit, blueberry, cassis and a touch of vanilla pod. It soars from the glass and takes no prisoners. The palate is full-bodied with rich saturated tannins, low acidity, rounded and sensual in the mouth with an intense, voluminous finish that leaves a touch of oyster shell as its calling card. A second sample at the chateau promoted the fine tannins, offering a much more delineated finish, much more precise but a little drier (possibly because of the more cloudy weather.) Excellent Mon. Laborde!
WS 93 (3/2014): This is alluring, with lovely blackberry, boysenberry and fig pâte de fruit flavors gliding along, lined with subtle charcoal and black tea notes and carrying through to a lush yet defined finish. A hedonist's delight on the surface, offering inlaid grip for balance. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2015 through 2030. 4,580 cases made.
JS 92 (2/2014): This is a rich Pomerol for the vintage with plenty of berry, chocolate and toasted-oak character. Full body with round, soft tannins. Needs two or three years to come together. |
|
| Ch. Cos d'Estournel |
2017 |
St. Estephe (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,499.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (3/2020): Composed of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, yields for the grand vin in 2017 were 43 hectoliters per hectare, and it was aged in 60% new oak. It came in at an alcohol of 13% and an IPT of 68. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Cos d'Estournel needs a little coaxing to unfurl, revealing beautiful expressions of preserved plums, boysenberries, blackcurrant pastilles and wild blueberries with hints of Indian spices, menthol, lilacs and mossy tree bark plus a compelling suggestion of iron ore. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid backbone of firm, grainy tannins and well-knit freshness supporting the tightly wound blue and black fruits layers, finishing long and fragrant. This wine will need a good 5-7 years in bottle before it begins to blossom and should go on for at least another 40 years. I expect this wine to be a blockbuster of a head-turner when I come back and taste it at 10 years of age!
JS 98 (12/2019): Quite the bottle here! Spices, such as nutmeg and cinnamon, as well as dried meat and plums with cedar and sandalwood. Full body. Deep and dense in the center palate and a long, long finish. Shows finesse and tightness. Very polished tannins. Long and ethereal. Try after 2023.
VM 95 (3/2020): A bold, dramatic wine, the 2017 Cos d'Estournel is seriously impressive today. Time in barrel has done wonders for the 2017, a wine that has really gained depth in elevage. Black cherry, chocolate, spice, new leather, licorice, smoke and incense infuse the 2017 with tons of character, with the 60% new oak very well judged. In 2017, Cos has a level of textural resonance that eludes many Saint-Estèphes. The blend is 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Antonio Galloni.
JD 94 (2/2020): The grand vin 2017 Chateau Cos D'Estournel checks in as 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, and 1% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot brought up in 60% new French oak. It's a classic 2017 that shows the straight, very classic style of the vintage with its medium to full body, ripe, present tannins, and solid spine of acidity. Beautiful cassis, green tobacco, graphite, and cedar pencil notes all emerge from the glass, and as with the Pagodes, it's still tight and reserved on the palate. Reminding me of the 1996 with its classic, balanced style, give bottles 5-7 years and enjoy over the following two decades.
WS 94 (3/2020): Bright and expressive, with an extroverted core of loganberry, plum and black cherry fruit racing to the fore, carried by a polished and sleek structure. Reveals a subtle mineral edge through the finish, with alluring black and red tea notes swirling around. The rare seductive St.-Estèphe. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2036. 15,000 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Ducru-Beaucaillou |
2003 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,630.98 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 97 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, currant and cherry. Full-bodied, with masses of big, velvety tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. A blockbuster. A classic big, juicy claret. Best after 2012. 17,500 cases made.
WA 96 (4/2006): One of the most compelling Ducru Beaucaillou’s made in the last quarter century is the 2003 (which is also the first vintage to be packaged in an impressive heavy glass bottle with a special long cork). A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot, it is a powerful, tannic, blockbuster effort revealing a liqueur of mineral-like component intermixed with creme de cassis, raspberry, and flower characteristics, and an atypically high 13.5% alcohol. Having firmed up considerably since bottling, it exhibits tremendous definition, weight, and concentration. It is a wine for patient connoisseurs. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025+. A brilliant tour de force!
VM 92 (6/2006): Ruby-red. Sexy nose offers superripe currant, raspberry, graphite and coconut. Lush, very rich and fine-grained, with an almost confectionery sweetness and thickness for this St. Julien. Atypically powerful on the back end, but not hard. Bruno Borie took over direction of this property with the 2003 and immediately switched to a heavier bottle with a longer neck that could accommodate a 55-millimeter cork. A terrific showing-but I'd still give this wine another four or five years of aging. |
|
| Ch. L' Eglise Clinet |
2002 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,609.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$954.99 |
2 |
|
| |
JS 97-98 (4/2018): This really rolls on the palate with fantastic fruit and tannins. Full-bodied, structured and layered. Long, long finish. Impressive all the way.
WA 96-98+ (4/2018): A blend of 90% Merlot with 10% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 L'Eglise Clinet opens with crème de cassis, black forest cake and preserved plums notes with suggestions of underbrush, lilacs and star anise plus an invigorating spark of Bing cherries. Medium to full-bodied and built like a brick house with very firm, ripe tannins and very refreshing acidity supporting the tightly wound muscular fruit, it finishes with epic persistence and bags of energy. This will be extremely long lived!
VM 94-97 (5/2018): The 2017 L'Eglise-Clinet is one of the most polished, sensual wines of the year. Bright, precise and yet full of flavor, the 2017 has a lot to offer. Cedar, licorice and rose petal are just some of the many nuances that add aromatic dimension. Deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2017 offers notable intensity and persistence. What a gorgeous wine it is. Harvest was about a week earlier than normal. Denis Durantou gave the various lots in the Grand Vin 15-18 days on the skins. The 70% new oak is impeccably balanced in several samples. Antonio Galloni.
WS 92-95 (4/2018): A nice core of gently steeped plum and boysenberry fruit is liberally infused with anise accents. A light bramble edge carries the finish. This has good underlying energy, with some fruit in reserve. |
|
| Ch. L' Evangile |
2016 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,387.99 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (2/2019): The grand vin 2016 Château L'Evangile is more primordial than the second wine, sporting a deep purple color and a huge nose of blueberries, scrub brush, violets, graphite, and lead pencil shavings. Deep, massively textured, with building minerality, a brilliant mid-palate, I'd imagine this is a modern-day version of the 1982. A sexy, sexy, wine, it should drink well in 4-6 years but is capable of last for 2-3 decades.
WA 97 (11/2018): The 2016 L'Evangile is made from 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. It has a deep garnet-purple color and opens with notions of plum preserves, Black Forest cake, red cherry compote and black raspberries with touches of menthol, chocolate box, licorice and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied, the palate features fantastically ripe, velvety tannins and beautiful freshness, lifting the generous, brightly fruited mid-palate and giving bags of energy to the very long-lingering, minerally finish.
VM 96 (1/2019): The 2016 L'evangile is just as captivating from bottle as it was from barrel. Huge and explosive in the glass, the 2016 possesses stunning depth and textural resonance. At first a bit somber, the 2016 needs time in the glass to open up. Once that happens, all the elements fall into place in an effortless, gracious wine. Floral overtones add brightess to the dark cherry, chocolate, leather and spice flavors, while silky tannins round things out in style. Jean-Pascal Vazart describes 2016 as a late year. Harvest started on September 26, about ten days later than normal. The 2016 spent 16 months in French oak, 85% new. Antonio Galloni.
WS 96 (3/2019): Features a wide swath of espresso, loam and smoldering tobacco flavors out front, followed by a tighter beam of black currant and blackberry paste. Dense and fleshy in feel, with echoes of warm earth and bittersweet cocoa scoring the finish. This wine flaunts its muscle. Best from 2024 through 2040. 250 cases made.
JS 99 (1/2019): So ethereal and great on the nose with glorious fresh flowers, such as violets, together with black olives. Dark berries, too. But the archetypal Pomerol nose. Full-bodied yet, at the same time, so refined and structured. Glorious tannin tension and focus. Vibrant finish. Shows energy and focus. Try after 2024. |
|
|
2017 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,050.99 |
7 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (2/2020): Production was down 40% at Chateau L’Evangile due to the frost. The 2017 Chateau L'Evangile is 100% Merlot, and 2017 is the first time this cuvee has not included some other variety. Aged 16 months in 75% new barrels, it's a ripe, powerful L'Evangile loaded with chocolate-laced black fruits, mocha, toasted spice, and subtle oak. These carry over to the palate, where the wine is medium to full-bodied, has plenty of oomph and power, yet stays flawlessly balanced and even elegant. It’s a stunning example from the vintage that’s going to benefit from 4-6 years of bottle age and cruise for two decades. |
|
| Ch. La Fleur Petrus |
2015 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,508.97 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97+ (2/2018): The 2015 La Fleur-Petrus is a magical wine. Soaring aromatics, beautifully layered, translucent fruit and exceptional balance are the signatures. Hints of orange peel, white pepper and rose petal add an exotic flair. A wine of total harmony, the 2015 offers superb intensity and structure to play off the natural richness of the year. A dollop of Petit Verdot rounds out the blend. The 2015 is like a full-on orchestra where all the instruments are clearly heard but also come together in unison to create a wall of sound that is overwhelming in its beauty. Antonio Galloni.
JD 97 (11/2017): One of the undeniable superstars of the vintage is the 2015 La Fleur Petrus, which is 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc. This awesome wine builds with time in the glass and shines just as much for its purity and elegance and richness and power. Boasting a deep purple/plum color to go with thrilling notes of tobacco leaf, currants, licorice, and subtle oak, it has a multi-dimensional, layered, elegant, and full-bodied style on the palate that just begs to be drunk. Nevertheless, it needs 5-6 years of cellaring and will keep for 2+ decades. It’s a sensational wine!
WA 96 (2/2018): A blend of 92% Merlot, 7.5% Cabernet Franc and 0.5% Petit Verdot, the 2015 la Fleur-Petrus is a little reticent on the nose to begin, offering up beguiling notes of tilled soil, black olives, charcuterie and dried Provence herbs over a core of preserved plums, black cherries and black raspberries with touches of tar and new leather. Full-bodied, rich, plush and seductive in the mouth, it finishes with persistent, slowly revealing earthy/savory layers, which will keep you reaching for another glass.
WS 95 (3/2018): Warm ganache, fig bread and blackberry compote notes give this a fleshy feel. Loam and warm espresso details glide underneath, further accentuating the dark profile. Shows ample drive and energy, with graphite and roasted alder elements and fresh acidity coursing through. Serious juice. Best from 2025 through 2040. 5,133 cases made.
JS 99 (2/2018): The aromas to this are stunning with lavender, rose petals, walnut skin, strawberries and raspberries. Captivating. Full body, layers of polished tannins and perfectly ripe fruit. Dense and very long. Breathtaking classicism. Try in 2021 and onwards. |
|
| Les Forts de Latour |
2011 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,337.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 91 (3/2014): A tightly coiled version, with a strong iron base that keeps the core of plum, black currant and bitter cherry pinned down for now. A bolt of graphite courses through the finish. This is very solid, showing some serious cut. Best from 2016 through 2026.
JS 90 (3/2012): Aromas of dried berries and fresh herbs such as lemongrass. Full body with firm, chewy tannins and a chocolate, pie-crust, berry and mineral character. A little salty and mineral. Needs at least five to six years.
WA 90-92 (4/2012): One of the finest second wines now being made, Les Forts de Latour comes from the same parcel every year. The 2011 is composed of 61.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38.5% Merlot. Forty-three percent of the Latour production was relegated to this cuvee. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by a big, sweet nose of creme de cassis, underbrush, licorice and incense. Medium to full-bodied, deep, fleshy and already appealing, this 2011 should gain complexity over the next 5-7 years, and last for 15-20.
NM 90-92 (4/2012): The Les Forts de Latour is a blend of 61.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 0.5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. It has a strict, clinical bouquet with blackberry, boysenberry, crushed stone and a strong graphite seam. The palate is very precise on the entry, a little grainy in texture with fine minerality. It is unashamedly classic, nothing out of place, a second wine with its shirt tucked in and its tie done right up to the collar...and I like it for that. Tasted April 2012. |
|
| Clos Fourtet |
2016 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$840.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 95-96 (4/2017): This is a solid and structured 2016 with fabulous density and freshness. Full-bodied yet vibrant and exciting. Wow. We will see.
WS 96-99 (4/2017): Gorgeous from the get-go, with plum sauce, cassis and violet notes streaming through, showing ample richness yet relying more on cut, while anise, black tea and chalky mineral flavors persist on the finish. A beauty in the making. |
|
| Ch. Giscours |
2019 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$381.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JS 96-97 (6/2020): Lots of deep blue fruit with blackberries and grape skins, as well as tar and asphalt. Lead, too. It’s full-bodied, yet very tight with powerful, defined tannins, surrounded by attractive ripe fruit. Serious. Reminds me of the excellent 1975. A blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% merlot. |
|
| Ch. Grand Puy Lacoste |
2009 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,402.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (2/2012): Performing better from bottle than it did from cask (and comparable to their wines 2005, 2000, 1990 and 1982), this is a great classic from Xavier Borie’s estate situated on the back roads west of the town of Pauillac. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by hints of spring flowers, crushed rocks, black currants, cedar and earth/underbrush. Precise and elegant as well as backward and foreboding, it should put on weight in the bottle and evolve for two decades. Very concentrated as well as velvety-textured, it is a beauty of finesse, balance, purity and nobility. It will benefit from 5-7 more years of bottle age.
VM 95 (3/2019): The 2009 Grand Puy Lacoste is one of the great vintages from this estate in the modern era. It storms from the glass with scents of blackberry, undergrowth, cedar and mint, retaining the classicism of GPL. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, a fine bead of acidity. Very harmonious with a gorgeous, lithe, graphite infused finish that lingers in the mouth. Bon vin. Tasted blind at BI Wines & Spirits' Ten Year On tasting. Neal Martin.
JS 95 (2/2012): Complex and decadent. Blackberries and black currants, with fresh herbs on the nose. Tea too. Full body, with soft tannins and an earthy finish. Juicy wine. Turns to pure black currants. Best in 2018. |
|
|
2019 |
Pauillac (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$440.98 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95-97 (6/2020): The 2019 Grand Puy Lacoste is deep purple in colour. Initially the bouquet is tight and so I left my sample for 15-20 minutes to open. It rewards patience with a beguiling melange of pure blackberry, raspberry, crushed violet and pencil shavings, very focused and mineral-driven. The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins. Compared to the robust, tannic GPL's of old, this is much more lithe and approachable, yet it still bears the DNA of this Pauillac estate. It might not possess the flair of other 2019 Left Banks, but that it is not what I seek from this estate. Classy and full of breeding - quintessential Pauillac.
JS 94-95 (6/2020): A firm, silky red with intense, chewy tannins, showing structure, beauty and intensity. Full-bodied, tight and chewy. Racy and focused GPL. Shows a more refined structure than the 2018, but serious. |
|
|
2020 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$863.98 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (11/2024): The 2020 Grand-Puy-Lacoste has a wonderful, "cool" bouquet with refined, graphite-infused black fruit that simply oozes class. The palate is medium-bodied with sapid black fruit and wonderful symmetry, fresh and tensile with a persistent, tobacco-tinged finish that could only come from Pauillac. Wonderful. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. (Drink between 2032-2065). Neal Martin.
JD 95+ (5/2024): Cassis, graphite, smoked tobacco, and crushed stone-like minerality all emerge from the 2020 Château Grand-Puy Lacoste, a more focused, classic effort that has gorgeous purity of fruit, ripe, building tannins, and flawless balance. More in the style of the 2016 than the 2018 and 2019, it has tons of class.
WA 94+ (4/2023): The 2020 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is excellent, offering up aromas of cassis and plums mingled with pencil shavings, violets and loamy soil framed by a touch of creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, pure and fleshy, with lively acids, powdery tannins and good depth at the core, its supple, charming style belies considerable aging potential. It's a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot. |
|
| Ch. Gruaud Larose |
2006 |
St. Julien (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$712.97 |
2 |
|
| |
NM 91 (1/2010): Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. This is an impressive showing for Gruaud-Larose under blind conditions. It has a reserved, cedar, leafy nose with good definition and poise with good lift – very Pauillac in style with the Cabernet driving it along. The palate is full-bodied, very well balanced with good acidity. Firm tannins, ripe and elegant, very well poised on the briary finish. Charming.
WS 90 (3/2009): Shows plum and raspberry aromas, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with super well-integrated tannins and pretty fruit on the middle palate. All there in balance and finesse. Best after 2013. 20,000 cases made.
VM 89 (5/2009): Good deep red. Musky, gamey aromas of plum, dark chocolate, cocoa powder and roasted oak. Fat, plummy and lush, but with decent spine to give the wine shape. Sweet but not overly so, offering more breadth than depth. Finishes with dusty, horizontal tannins.
WA 84 (2/2009): The significant rainfall during late September clearly had a noticeable impact on this 2006, which perhaps lacks “selection” as the French say. There is an element of dilution in this cuvee, and I would never recognize it as a Gruaud Larose except for the label. Dark ruby with a light pink rim, the wine is medium-bodied, soft, and round revealing roasted herb, sweet cherry, and currant flavors. For its prestige and pedigree, it is one of the most disappointing St.-Juliens I tasted. |
|
| Ch. Haut Marbuzet |
2019 |
St. Estephe (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$709.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Haut-Brion |
2006 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,710.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (2/2009): The 2006 Haut-Brion performed even better from bottle than it did from barrel. Sixty-four percent of the production went into this wine, and while it displays the vintage’s powerful tannins and structure, it possesses superb concentration, and the minerality/scorched earth notes of a great Haut-Brion. Medium to full-bodied, with perhaps not quite the fleshiness of the 2005 or 2000, it is built more along the lines of the 1998 and 1996. It is a brilliant effort displaying sensational purity, texture, and length that should be exceptionally long-lived. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035 .
VM 95 (6/2009): Medium ruby-red. Inviting aromas of plum, warm stones, red licorice and menthol. Suave, gentle and elegantly styled; distinctly sweeter and lusher today than the La Mission, with even more mid-palate depth. Showing more red fruits today as well, with pungent minerality giving the wine lift and juiciness. Finishes with suave but substantial building tannins. Last year this wine was showing its spine while La Mission was more opulent; in bottle it's the other way around.
WS 94 (3/2009): Offers subtle and complex aromas, with violet, cedar and blackberry. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a very long finish. Tight and curled up in a ball. Best after 2015. 11,000 cases made.
NM 93+ (4/2007): Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. At this stage, the Haut Brion ’06 is a little disjointed on the nose: blackberry, cold black tea, autumn leaves in an October bonfire, a touch of damson and even a slither of marmalade. Good definition but needs time to meld. The palate is rounded and supple on the entry, saturated tannins, black cherries, damson, cassis, lower acidity, very caressing with a smooth cohesive, fleshy finish with beguiling weight and persistency. |
|
| Ch. Hosanna |
2020 |
Pomerol (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$623.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Lafite Rothschild |
2000 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$14,265.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 100 (3/2003): Subtle aromas of currants, leather, tobacco and cedar. Classic cigar box nose, with fruit. Full-bodied, with an amazing texture of silky, ripe tannins. This wine completely coats your palate, but caresses it at the same time. This is the best young Lafite ever made. A triumph. Best after 2012. 18,000 cases made.
WA 98+ (6/2010): Since I gave this wine a perfect score, I suppose some could see this as a downgrade. I found everything still there for a perfect rating, but I was just struck by how tight and backward the wine was. A blend of 93.3% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, the wine still has a dark ruby/purple color and an extraordinarily youthful nose of graphite, black currants, sweet, unsmoked cigar tobacco, and flowers. The wine is rich, medium to full-bodied, but has that ethereal elegance and purity that is always Lafite. I originally predicted that it would first reach maturity in 2011, but I would push that back by 5-7 years now, although it has 50-60 years of life in front of it. Owners of this beauty are probably best advised to forget it for 5 years. Tasted next to a 1996 several days after the 2000 tasting, the 1996, which is a perfect wine, was far closer to full maturity than the 2000.
VM 96 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Flamboyantly perfumed aromas of cassis, graphite and tobacco, lifted by a floral nuance and stony minerality. Very young and precise but not austere or forbidding. A remarkably rich, silky, seamless Lafite with superb vibrancy for the vintage. Tannins are noble and the aristocratic finishing flavors go on and on. I tasted this from a 375 ml. bottle, but from all reports this wine is equally approachable right now from a standard bottle. Has more sheer density than the beautiful 2001 and may well soon shut down in the bottle. |
|
|
2014 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,578.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (2/2017): The aromas of stones, oyster shell, blackcurrants and mushrooms are very intense. Full-bodied, dense and powerful with lots of blackberries. Great finish. Super energy and depth. Try in 2022. Fascinating.
WS 95 (3/2017): Reserved for now, but the core of cassis, bitter plum and raspberry coulis flavors is pure and energetic, while extra black tea, iron and singed alder notes fill in steadily through the finish. This has a very focused, streamlined feel overall, yet there's serious depth for the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2035. 16,000 cases made.
VM 94+ (2/2017): The 2014 Lafite-Rothschild is a beautiful, vivid wine. It is also going to need a number of years to come together. All the classic Lafite signatures are present in the glass. Dark red and bluish-hued fruits, grilled herbs, crème de cassis and leather are some of the many notes that gradually open up. The wine is finessed and nuanced to the core. I imagine it will drink well with minimal cellaring, although it clearly also has the potential to grow in bottle. The blend is 87 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 10 % Merlot and 3 % Cabernet Franc. In 2014, the Grand Vin accounts for 38 % of production. Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (3/2017): The 2014 Lafite-Rothschild, tasted with head winemaker Eric Kohler, has retained that very opulent and outgoing bouquet that dare I say actually reminded me of Mouton-Rothschild. There are layers of blackberry and boysenberry fruit, still that hint of juniper berry, certainly a more extrovert Lafite-Rothschild compared to recent vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, very focused and quite linear, again with plenty of black fruit laced with cedar and tobacco. It begins to clam up towards the saline finish, suggesting that it will need several years in bottle, but I still have high expectations for this First Growth once afforded several years in bottle. |
|
|
2015 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,596.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 99 (7/2020): Firm and powerful with blackberries, blueberries, currants and wet earth. Full-bodied, yet tight and angular with very pretty fruit and brightness. Really racy and super and set for a long, long life. Better after 2025.
VM 96+ (2/2018): Rich, powerful and enveloping, the 2015 Lafite-Rothschild is endowed with serious volume and textural resonance. Super-ripe plum, smoke and spice notes emerge in the glass, but only with great reluctance. Although the aromatics aren't giving much at this point, the palate is much more expressive. The wine's sheer power and authoritative tone result in an unusually dramatic Lafite. The 2015 is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot that spent 20 months in oak, which is a bit more than the norm. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96+ (2/2018): The deep garnet-purple shaded 2015 Lafite Rothschild is blended of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot and was matured for 20 months in new oak barrels from Tonnellerie des Domaines (their own cooperage). It is still sporting a lot of cedar at this nascent stage with a vibrant core of black raspberries, red currants and crushed plums plus touches of cigar boxes, violets and underbrush with a waft of tilled loam. Medium-bodied and elegantly styled with wonderful freshness and depth, it is compellingly earthy/minerally in the mouth with a frame of seductively silky yet very firm tannins and culminating in a very long, racy and pure finish. Boasting spectacular finesse and packed with nuances, clearly, given some of the challenges here in 2015, this is a masterpiece of diligence in the vineyards, careful selection and very clever crafting—bravo!
JD 96 (11/2017): The grand vin 2015 Lafite-Rothschild checks in as 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot that was brought all in 100% new oak. Director Eric Kohler (who replaced Charles Chevallier in 2015) told me the vintage suffered a touch of dilution but wasn’t a complicated year. The 2015 is an aristocratic, classy example from this estate that offers textbook lead pencil shavings, tobacco, smoked herbs, and graphite as well as a beautiful core of currant and cassis fruit. It’s the most refined and subtle of the first growths, has medium to full-bodied richness, building tannin, and undeniable class and charm. Give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 2-3 decades.
WS 95 (3/2018): Velvet- and silk-textured red currant, raspberry and black cherry compote notes glide through, supported by a perfectly embedded graphite spine, while enticing violet, black tea and alder accents add range through the finish. Very refined and sneakily long. Best from 2025 through 2045. 16,000 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Langoa Barton |
2018 |
St. Julien (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$376.97 |
4 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (3/2021): Ripe and focused, with a lovely core of steeped plum, fig and cassis notes laced liberally with graphite and applewood. A violet note chimes bright on the finish. Absolutely rock solid. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2023 through 2036. 7,800 cases made. |
|
|
2021 |
St. Julien (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$299.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Laroque |
2021 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$196.99 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Latour |
1993 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,268.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (1/1998): A terrific wine for the vintage, Latour's 1993 reveals an opaque purple color, a backward, cedar, black walnut, cassis, and earth-scented nose, medium to full body, gorgeously rich, concentrated fruit, moderately high tannin (but no astringency), and a sweet, long, powerful finish. The wine does not possess any of the vegetal, green pepper characteristics of the vintage, nor any hint of hollowness or harshness. This wine may prove to merit an even higher rating. Is this vintage the modern day clone of the 1967 and 1971? Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025. Last tasted 1/97
WS 89 (8/2000): Very friendly for a young Latour. Lots of plum, Merlot character in this wine. Medium- to full-bodied, with fleshy fruit and soft and juicy tannins. Sweet fruit aftertaste.--Latour vertical. Drink now through 2015. |
|
|
2003 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,442.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (4/2006): There are only 10,800 cases (rather than the normal 15,000-20,000) of the 2003 Latour, a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot (13.3% finished alcohol). A prodigious effort, it boasts a saturated purple color as well as a gorgeous perfume of smoke, cedar, creme de cassis, flowers, crushed rocks, and blackberries. Massive and multi-layered, with huge richness and low acidity, it is about as unctuous as a young Latour can be. It could be compared to the 1982, but it may be even more pure, at least at this early stage, than that monumental wine. The level of intensity builds prodigiously in the mouth, and the finish lasts nearly a minute. Disarmingly accessible (although analytically the tannin level is high), I suspect it will ultimately shut down, but it was performing impeccably when I tasted it. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040+.
WS 98 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, licorice, currant and mineral. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. Very refined and beautiful. Goes on for minutes. This reminds me of the fabulous 1996. But even better. Best after 2012. 10,000 cases made.
VM 97 (6/2006): Red-ruby. Explosive aromas of plum liqueur, currant, minerals and lead pencil. Huge, lush, sweet and utterly seamless; this has the palate-caressing texture of liquid velvet. About as deep as this extreme vintage gets. Finishes with noble, compellingly sweet tannins and great length. This is amazing wine, and only its exotic character prevented me from giving it an even higher score. Interestingly, the IPT here is 65, compared to 67 for the 2005. But this voluminous and powerful wine will be more fun to drink than the 2005 for many years simply due to its sensual appeal, even if the 2005 should ultimately surpass it in verve, minerality and overall aromatic complexity. (Incidentally, Latour's third wine, simply called Pauillac, is extremely good in both 2005 and 2003-the former vintage showing terrific energy and loads of early personality, and the latter fat, round and exotic, with what Engerer described as a "Napa nose.") |
|
| Ch. Leoville Barton |
2018 |
St. Julien (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$551.97 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 97 (3/2021): This estate has been on fire in recent vintages, and the 2018 Château Leoville Barton is up there with the best of them. Based on 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot that was brought up in 60% new French oak, this classic, flawlessly balanced, straight-up awesome Saint-Julien has loads of cassis and mulberry fruits as well as notes of freshly sharpened pencils, leafy tobacco, chocolate, and earth. Rich, medium to full-bodied, and concentrated on the palate, it has building tannins and healthy acidity, yet the fruit is pure, perfectly ripe, and wonderfully integrated with all the wine's components. As is normal with this cuvee, it closes down with extended air and is going to take a solid 8-10 years of bottle age to reach the early stages of maturity. It's going to evolve for 30-40 years in cold cellars.
WS 97 (3/2021): Cassis, crushed plum and steeped blackberry fruit is all packed into this wine, along with tar, violet and roasted apple wood notes, plus a terrific tug of warm earth. Shows lots of energy in reserve, with a tightly knit finish pulling everything together. Cellaring required. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2026 through 2040. 11,600 cases made.
VM 96 (3/2021): The 2018 Leoville-Barton is a gorgeous, exotic wine. Crème de cassis, lavender, menthol, licorice and cloves race out of the glass. The 2018 marries the natural opulence of the year with a pretty classic sense of structure, making for one of the more compelling wines of the year. I would give this a good decade in the cellar. There is much to look forward to. I especially admire the energy and poise here. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Ch. Leoville Las Cases |
2010 |
St. Julien (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,556.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 99 (11/2013): The aromas to this wine have a beautiful purity of raspberries, blueberries, currants, and flowers that follow to a a full body, with super integrated tannins that are like the finest silk in texture. It shows elegant and pretty fruit character and a reserve and finesse of such great years as 1989 and 1995. The bright strong acidity gives a crunchy and creamy texture. This has a tiny bit more Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend than 2009. Give it at least six to eight years of bottle age.
WS 99 (3/2013): Stunning and pure from the get-go, with intense cassis and blackberry fruit. Ultimately takes a slightly austere approach, with a wrought-iron structure driving along while pastis, black tea, licorice snap and asphalt notes course underneath. Long and loaded with grip, this remains remarkably fine-grained. A very chiseled Cabernet that is wonderfully precise and incredibly long. Best from 2020 through 2040. 12,000 cases made.
WA 98 (12/2022): The most powerful wine in this vertical is the 2010 Léoville Las Cases, a full-bodied, deep and multidimensional behemoth redolent of rich berries, cassis, burning embers, pencil shavings and loamy soil. Broad-shouldered, layered and muscular, with huge reserves of concentration and sweet, powdery tannin, it concludes with a broad, resonant finish. This is a prodigious, somewhat imposing Las Cases that is still an infant a decade after bottling.
VM 96 (4/2020): The 2010 Léoville Las Cases has a clean and precise bouquet, beautifully focused with blackberry, melted tar, cigar humidor and crushed stone aromas. It gains intensity with aeration without ever losing its precision. The palate is medium-bodied with lithe tannins, a fine bead of acidity, a sense of abiding symmetry and detail as it fans out on the mineral-driven finish. This is an absolutely awesome Saint-Julien with a long life ahead. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the BI Wines & Spirits 10-Year On tasting. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2014 |
St. Julien (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,052.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (2/2017): I love the nose of blackberries, blueberries, flowers and citrus. Hints of stones and wet earth. Full body and ultra-fine tannins that are so long and seamless. Incredible length. A wine that you want to drink now.
WA 96 (3/2017): The 2014 Leoville-Las Cases is a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc and Merlot, cropped at 33 hectoliters per hectare and matured in 85% new oak. There is 6.8% vin de presse this year. Picked between 30 September and 13 October over 12 days. It has a delectable bouquet with very precise, mineral-rich black fruit infused with oyster shell, which appears to be a leitmotif of Jean-Huber Delon's 2014s! The palate is medium-bodied with wondrous purity and tension, the acidity beautifully poised and imparting the palpable sense of energy from start to finish. Where it really excels is on the finish: exquisite structure, very complex with enormous persistence that lingers for more than a minute. Surely the wine of the appellation, ditto one of the best Left Bank 2014s.
VM 95+ (2/2017): Readers will have to be patient with the 2014 Leoville-las-Cases, as it is not likely to show well for a number of years. Tightly wound but also medium-bodied and classic in its construction, the 2014 is going to need quite a bit of time to come together. Leoville-las-Cases is so often a wine of power, but here the refined site of the vintage is very much in evidence. The 2014 is a Las Cases built on finesse. Antonio Galloni.
WS 95 (2/2017): (WS #91 wine of 2017) Densely packed, with cassis, steeped plum and blackberry coulis notes that are compressed with layers of cold charcoal and graphite. Very pure, giving this a long, sleek and racy feel, while a terrific iron underpinning drives the finish. Best from 2020 through 2040. 12,500 cases made.
JD 94+ (11/2017): The 2014 Leoville Las Cases is a terrific blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot, and it’s one of the more backward, tight, age-worthy wines in the vintage. Offering sensational purity in its crème de cassis, graphite, licorice and subtle background oak, it hits the palate with a tight, focused, yet impressively concentrated profile that needs 3-4 years of cellaring and will shine for three decades. It’s another incredibly classy wine from this estate. |
|
|
2018 |
St. Julien (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,460.97 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 98-100 (4/2019): "We produced great Cabernet Franc this year,” Directeur General Pierre Graffeuille told me during my visit to Leoville Las Cases. Even though only 3% of the press wine was added back, he was also absolutely glowing about the quality of this too. And he should be—the finished blend for the 2018 Leoville Las Cases is yet another triumph for this great estate. Composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot, harvested September 15 to October 4 with yields of 35.5 hectoliters per hectare, it has 14.49% alcohol and will be aged in barriques, 90% new. Very deep purple-black in color, it is a little closed to begin, slowly emerging from the glass to reveal subtle woodsmoke, violets, tilled soil and underbrush scents over a core of warm cassis, wild blueberries and redcurrant jelly plus hints of rare beef and iron ore. Full-bodied, rich, super concentrated and bursting with latent energy, this is an atomic bomb waiting to go off in your mouth. It has a rock-solid foundation of firm, very ripe, very finely grained tannins and bold freshness supporting the muscular fruit through the epically long, amazingly nuanced finish. Simply breathtaking.
WS 97-100 (4/2019): This is backward and dense, with thickly layered plum, blackberry, fig and blueberry reduction flavors wrapped liberally in warm ganache and melted licorice notes. A long echo of smoldering charcoal emerges at the very end. There's a lot to resolve here as the rich and austere sides are still melding, but the extra amplitude doesn't distort anything; it just all goes to 11.
VM 95-98 (5/2019): The 2018 Leoville Las Cases is a rich, sumptuous, exotic wine in 2018. Plush fruit and suave, silky tannins give the 2018 a level of textural richness that is unusual for a young Leoville Las Cases. Crème de cassis, lavender, mint and sweet spice all build in this extraordinarily beautiful wine. I can't recall tasting a young Las Cases with this much immediacy and sheer allure. The 2018 Las Cases has a very bright future. It is also one of the unquestioned stars of the vintage. In 2018, the blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot. Antonio Galloni.
JD 98-100 (5/2019): A candidate for the wine of the vintage is the 2018 Leoville Las Cases. My notes on this incredible wine are laced with expletives that I, unfortunately, can’t repeat here. Safe to say, however, it’s one of the greatest young Bordeaux I’ve been lucky enough to taste. Based on a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc, from yields of 35.5 hectoliters per hectare, that will spend 19 months in barrel, it offers a massive bouquet of crème de cassis, lead pencil shavings, crushed violets, tobacco, and a liquid rock-like minerality. Pure magic on the palate as well, with full-bodied richness, building structure, and a seamless, weightless, yet powerful mouthfeel, it has everything you could want from a wine. It has the purity and balance to drink well in 7-8 years (I wouldn’t hold it against you if couldn’t wait that long) and will keep for 50 years or more. For the tech geeks out there, this hit 14.49% alcohol, 3.65 pH, and an IPT of 80.
JS 99-100 (4/2019): OMG. This shows amazing depth of fruit and density. Full-bodied and so layered with incredible fruit and power. Blackberries. Blueberries. Violets. Hints of dried flowers. Fantastic fruit and tannins, yet agile and energetic. The château says 2016 plus, plus. |
|
| Ch. Leoville Poyferre |
2003 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,886.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (8/2014): The spectacular 2003 Leoville Poyferre exhibits a dense purple color with a touch of lightening at the edge as well as notes of creosote, barbecue smoke, jammy black currants, licorice and spice box. This intense, voluptuously textured, full-bodied St.-Julien possesses low acidity and ripe tannin. Still fresh and exuberant, it is just entering its plateau of full maturity where it should remain for 10-15+ years.
WS 95 (3/2006): Pure cassis on the nose. Impressive. Full-bodied, thick and powerful, with loads of fruit and big, velvety tannins. Goes on for minutes on the palate. Huge wine. Very, very impressive. This is one of the big surprises of the vintage. Best after 2012. 19,165 cases made.
NM 94 (3/2013): Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Poyferre -03 offers an exuberant bouquet that is clearly more ostentatious and perhaps vigorous than the Barton - black cherries, cassis, a hint of Bovril and bay leaf. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe and grippy but succulent tannins. There are layers of black toasty fruit infused with white pepper, cedar and graphite. The finish is nicely composed and is becoming more -classic- in style compared to previous encounters. This is promising - watch out for this in five years time.
VM 92 (6/2006): Medium ruby-red. Extravagant aromas of currant, loam, leather and graphite; like the 1990 in its roasted character. Then sweet and dense but with surprising aromatic lift in the mouth, not to mention considerable power. Liqueur-like black fruit, licorice and mineral flavors really stain the palate. Cuvelier maintained that this vintage was not acidified. The cabernet acidity, he said, was healthy and the grape skins gave up their acidity slowly during the vinification. A very impressive showing, and built to last.
JS 92 (3/2011): Ripe currants, almost cassis aromas with hints of dried flowers and tar. Full bodied, with chewy tannins and an elegant and lean structure. Long and stylish, this still needs some time. Pull the cork after 2013. |
|
|
2006 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,190.97 |
1 |
|
| |
NM 93 (1/2010): Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. A superb Poyferre from Didier Cuvelier. This is very ripe on the nose, good lift but it has a lot of oak at the moment, with black plum, cassis, orange sorbet and subtle honeyed aromas. The palate is full-bodied, decadent, grippy tannins that coat the mouth, very primal, dense blackberry, cassis, tar and cedar, weighty on the finish. This needs serious time to mellow out, but it is unequivocally a class act.
VM 91 (5/2009): Full ruby-red. Ripe aromas of currant, milk chocolate and smoky oak. Lush, sweet and full, with superripe yet backward flavors of dark berries, dark chocolate and minerals. Wonderfully layered, structured wine whose excellent vinosity and firm tannins call for several years of patience.
WA 91 (2/2009): Dense ruby/purple, with sweet blackberry and black currant fruit with hints of smoke, espresso roast, and new saddle leather, this is another impressively endowed but tannic, backward style of wine. The concentration, brightness, and depth are all present, but I can't see it being even approachable in less than 5-7 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028.
WS 90 (3/2009): Blackberry, licorice and blueberry aromas lead to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Firm and attractive. Best after 2014. |
|
| Echo de Lynch Bages |
2010 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$960.99 |
4 |
|
| |
JS 92 (2/2013): A juicy wine with strawberry and blueberry character. It's full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a fresh finish. Lots of ripe fruit. Excellent second wine of Lynch-Bages. Better in 2015.
WS 91 (3/2013): This displays a solid core of cassis, raspberry and blackberry coulis notes, framed by a rather polished structure and lined with lightly toasted apple wood and anise notes. Offers good definition, with a violet note chiming in on the finish. A sleek, elegant Pauillac that relies more on purity than muscle. Best from 2014 through 2023. |
|
| Ch. Lynch Bages |
2016 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$948.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (11/2018): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Lynch Bages comes charging out of the gate with pronounced cassis, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and menthol notions, backed up by scents of garrigue, tilled soil and a waft of tapenade. Medium to full-bodied, rich and fantastically concentrated, the generous fruit is superbly framed by firm, ripe, grainy tannins with tons of pepper, cinnamon and cloves layers coming through on the finish. Truly, a legendary Lynch Bages!
JS 97 (1/2019): Very rich and exotic with blackberry, black-tea, graphite and lead-pencil aromas. Full-bodied, dense and structured with lots of ripe tannins and a long, flavorful finish of currants and forest floor, combined with fresh mushrooms and bark. Needs four to five years to show its true potential. Try after 2024.
VM 97 (1/2019): The 2016 Lynch-Bages delivers on its promise from barrel with an intense blackberry, cedar and mineral-driven bouquet that actually reminds me of Lafite-Rothschild. A faint dark chocolate scent makes a brief appearance. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannin, pure black fruit and a velvety texture. There is wonderful structure and focus on the finish, followed by a persistent saline aftertaste. This is an outstanding Lynch-Bages, easily the best since the twin titans of 1989 and 1990. Neal Martin.
WS 97 (3/2019): This is built for the cellar, with a generous core of kirsch, raspberry paste and plum preserve flavors waiting to unfurl. Will take time, due to the licorice snap, roasted apple wood and sweet tobacco elements draped over the fruit. Should meld with age, as the structure is invigorating in feel, showing both acidity and tannins in lockstep with the fruit. Best from 2025 through 2040.
JD 95+ (2/2019): The flagship 2016 Château Lynch Bages is a powerhouse, checking in as 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot raised in 75% new French oak. This deep, concentrated, powerful 2016 is going to be one for the ages, but if you’re looking for instant gratification, this isn’t for you. Saturated purple-colored, with thick black fruits, graphite, and scorched earth aromas and flavors, it fills the mouth with fruit, has masses of tannins, and beautiful overall balance. Don’t even think about opening bottles before 7-8 years from now, and it’s going to have 3-4 decades of longevity. |
|
|
2018 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$709.97 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (3/2021): One of the finest vintages I've ever tasted from this address, the 2018 Château Lynch-Bages has everything you look for in a great wine: incredible aromatics, richness without weight, perfect balance, and a purity of fruit that's just about off the charts. Dense purple, it reveals a glorious perfume of blackcurrants and blackberry fruits, a deep, unctuous mouthfeel, building tannins, and a complex array of cedar pencil, tobacco, wood smoke, and chocolate. A true blockbuster in every sense, with masses of fruit and tannins as well as moderate acidity, it will probably merit a triple-digit score in a decade and is a 50+-year wine from this team.
WS 97 (3/2021): Vibrant, with a violet and cassis lead-in that then expands to include steeped black cherry and plum fruit as well as extra savory, iron and licorice root notes. Nice latent grip too, with a mouthwatering tug of earth at the very end. The fruit is so vibrant, it's a tease now, but there's structure here for the long haul, so be patient. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2025 through 2040.
JS 97 (1/2021): Aromas of blackberries, cloves, licorice, dried leaves, graphite and black olives. It’s full-bodied with firm, tight tannins. Structured and tannic with beautiful austerity and a long, mineral and layered finish. The tannins grow on the palate. Try from 2026.
VM 96 (3/3021): An utterly fabulous wine, the 2018 Lynch-Bages captures all of the richness and generosity that make the year so appealing, and yet doesn’t stray too far from its classic feel. Rose petal, lavender, spice, sweet red berry fruit and mint are all beautifully lifted in the glass. Racy and silky to the core, the 2018 is a real head-turner from the very first taste. All the elements fall into place effortlessly. Readers will have a very hard time keeping their hands off this jewel of a wine. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (3/2021): Composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Lynch-Bages was aged in 75% new barriques. Deep garnet-purple in color, it soars out of the glass with a magnificently expressive nose of blueberry compote, black cherry preserves and blackcurrant pastilles, plus suggestions of dark chocolate, licorice, tar and violets with a waft of hoisin. The medium to full-bodied palate is just as impactful as the nose, coating the mouth with juicy black berry and spicy layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long with a refreshing earthiness coming through at the end. |
|
| Ch. Margaux |
1995 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,787.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 97 (11/2014): This still broods seriously, with dark plum, currant and blackberry fruit, studded with charcoal, singed tobacco and cedar notes and backed by a serious grip of roasted earth. The gorgeously long finish is driven by old-school tannins, with the smoldering edge going on and on. A brick house of a Margaux, with more charcoal than graphite, more austerity than elegance and more power than refinement.
VM 95 (9/2018): The 1995 Château Margaux is a vintage perhaps unfairly over-shadowed by the imperious 1996. That is unfair because the late Paul Pontallier crafted a great First Growth this year. It has a very impressive, quintessential Margaux bouquet that is undimmed after 23 years: black fruit, graphite, crushed violets and a touch of tobacco. If anything it becomes more and more pure with aeration and demonstrates exquisite delineation. The palate is very finely balanced. No, it does not have the intensity, the crystalline nature of the 1996 and yet there is a femininity and a finesse here that sweeps you off your feet. It is entertaining the possibility of secondary flavours but it remains focused on the red and black fruit, tensile on the almost balletic finish. Bon vin!
WA 95 (2/1998): Bottled very late (November 1997), the 1995 has continued to flesh out, developing into one of the great classics made under the Mentzelopoulos regime. The color is opaque ruby/purple. The nose offers aromas of licorice and sweet smoky new oak intermixed with jammy black fruits, licorice, and minerals. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with extraordinary richness, fabulous equilibrium, and hefty tannin in the finish. In spite of its large size and youthfulness, this wine is user-friendly and accessible. This is a thrilling Margaux that will always be softer and more evolved than its broader-shouldered sibling, the 1996. How fascinating it will be to follow the evolution of both of these vintages over the next half century. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2040. |
|
|
2002 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,434.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (4/2005): Performing better from bottle than at any time in cask (which of course is the objective of great winemaking, isn't it?), this wine reveals a dense ruby/purple color in a style somewhat reminiscent of the 1988 but with more power, concentration, and volume. It has a beautifully elegant nose of black fruits intermixed with truffle, flower, and oak. The wine is medium to full-bodied, dense, with wonderful precision, freshness, and a long, full-bodied finish with impressive levels of concentration. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030.
VM 92+ (6/2005): Bright, deep red. Classic aromas of boysenberry, black cherry, minerals and lead pencil. Then juicy and penetrating, with cabernet-dominated berry and mineral flavors (there's a very low 8% merlot in the blend). Finishes with very firm, youthfully tough tannins that will require a good decade of patience. Quite tight today and difficult to assess. "We had a gorgeous September, but it came too late for the merlot," said Pontallier.
WS 92 (3/2005): This is beautiful on the nose with currants, berries and flowers. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and pretty fruit. Needs a bit more fruit on the midpalate to be a classic Margaux, but clearly Outstanding. Best after 2007. 12,500 cases made. |
|
|
2012 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,388.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2016): Tasted blind at the 2012 Southwold tasting, the 2012 Château Margaux has a taut, linear, pencil lead-infused bouquet with pure blackberry and boysenberry scents, an undercurrent of tobacco that surfaces after five minutes in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, crisp acidity, a life-affirming sense of balance with well-integrated new oak towards the finish. I concur with Robert Parker that his has become more structured and masculine in bottle, yet there is pedigree here from start to finish, a sense of effortlessness that is seductive. This is a top-class wine from the late Paul Pontallier and his team.
WS 95 (3/2015): Bay leaf and menthol hints lift a core of crushed plum and warm cherry confiture notes while the background fills steadily with black tea, singed alder and iron elements. Turns a little darker on the finish, with a coating of bittersweet cocoa powder and roasted vanilla bean accents, while the minerality stays buried for now. Remarkably dense and packed, yet refined. Needs some time to unwind. Best from 2018 through 2030. 10,833 cases made.
VM 94+ (4/2016): The 2012 Margaux is beautifully polished and suave in the glass, with pliant fruit and plenty of finesse, all in a classic, mid-weight Margaux style. Inward and tightly wound, the 2012 is clearly holding back much of its potential. The 2012 has a stony, mineral-infused energy that is going to require at least a few more years in bottle to fully unwind, while the 100% new oak is a bit pronounced at this early stage. Grilled herbs, smoke, graphite and sage add further nuances on the savory, delineated finish. Antonio Galloni.
JS 94 (2/2015): Wonderful aromas of flowers such as roses, violets, strawberries and a hints of wet earth. Wet stones as well. Full to medium body, very firm tannins and a long, racy finish. Minerals and chalk on the aftertaste. Needs three to five years to soften. Better in 2020. |
|
| Ch. La Mission Haut Brion |
2018 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,387.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 98-100 (4/2019): The 2018 La Mission Haut-Brion is composed of 53.5% Merlot, 42.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3.6% Cabernet Franc, harvested September 10 to October 2. Deep purple-black in color, it slowly unfurls to reveal a beguiling nose of earth and soft-spoken fruit, opening with wild blueberries, wet slate, pencil lead and fresh black cherries giving way to a serious core of blackcurrant cordial, baked plums and wild sage, and then exposing delicate wafts of rose hip tea and candied violets. Full-bodied, the palate is very tightly wound and super intense with amazing restraint and energy focused around very firm, exquisitely fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing incredibly long and fantastically multilayered. Extraordinary wine.
VM 90-93 (5/2019): The 2018 La Mission Haut-Brion is bright and punchy, with lovely radiant fruit and a good deal of immediacy. Sweet red and purplish berry fruit, mint, tobacco, blood orange and wild flowers all grace this expressive, open-knit La Mission. It will be interesting to see what develops with elevage. Today, La Mission is decidedly expressive, and yet its typical layers of nuance are not yet especially in evidence. In 2018, La Mission is 53.5% Merlot, 42.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3.6% Cabernet Franc. Antonio Galloni.
JD 97-99 (5/2019): The 2018 La Mission Haut-Brion checks in as 53.5% Merlot, 42.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc that, like the La Chappelle de la Mission Haut-Brion, was harvested between September 10 and October 2. Straight up awesome notes of black raspberries, smoked earth, melted licorice, and tobacco all emerge from this deeply colored 2018, and it develops a beautiful violet and floral quality with time in the glass. Rich, full-bodied, and concentrated on the palate, with subtle background oak and sweet tannins, it's one sexy yet also seamless 2018 that does everything right.
JS 97-98 (4/2019): A tight and linear red with fantastic oyster-shell, iodine and crushed-stone character, complementing the currants and blackberries. Extremely long and fresh. |
|
| Ch. Montrose |
2020 |
St. Estephe (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,200.97 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
St. Estephe (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,237.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Mouton-Rothschild |
2002 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,005.97 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (6/2005): Good saturated ruby-red. Tight nose hints at currant and smoky oak. Highly concentrated, densely packed and built to age. As young as it is, it also shows a lovely velvety texture rare for this vintage. Finishes with terrific breadth, subtle minerality and noble tannins. I've been a fan of this wine since the outset. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 93 (4/2005): Dense purple to the rim, this wine exhibits the classic cassis aroma that is so characteristic of Mouton. Medium to full-bodied, tannic, powerful, and cut somewhat from the 1988 mold, this is a backward, chewy, well-endowed Mouton-Rothschild that will require considerable patience from those who purchase it. A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, the wine needs a good decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+.
JS 93 (6-2016): I tasted this a few days after Bordeaux en primeur 2014. I was at my house in Italy and I forgot I had the bottle in my cellar. I really liked it. It was ready to drink, though some of my guests were less enthusiastic. My wife even thought it was tired already, yet the bottle was finished in 10 minutes! The wine showed fresh herb and berry character with tobacco undertones, a medium body and fine tannins. Just opening now. Fine and sillky textured.
WS 91 (3/2005): Complex aromas of tobacco, cedar, berry and currants. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and ripe tannins. Not as good as a barrel sample tasted earlier, but still Outstanding for the vintage. Best after 2009. |
|
|
2018 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,395.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97-99+ (4/2019): The 2018 Mouton Rothschild is composed of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc—there is also a splash of all the Petit Verdot they had, but it doesn’t even register in the percentage. Grapes were harvested September 10 to October 3, and the wine was blended at the beginning of December; it has 13.8% alcohol, and the tannins were slightly higher this year. Deep purple-black in color, it is a little closed to begin compared to some 2018s, slowly unfurling to reveal a profound nose of warm black plums, blackcurrant cordial, star anise, blueberry pie and mocha with suggestions of candied violets, oolong tea, camphor and unsmoked cigars plus a touch of crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers waves of opulent, spiced black and blue fruits with seamless acid lifting this gorgeous mouthfeel that is at once plush from the ripe fruit and firm and grainy from the super ripe tannins, finishing very long and wonderfully creamy.
VM 94-97 (5/2019): The 2018 Mouton Rothschild is dense and unctuous in the glass, with striking textural depth and plenty of overall intensity. Super-ripe dark cherry, plum, spice, leather and sweet spice infuse a Mouton that stands out for its unctuousness and fruit intensity. There is plenty of tannin, but it is nearly buried by the sheer voluptuousness of the fruit. In 2018, Mouton is radiant, sensual and impeccable in its balance, even if it doesn't possess the sheer visceral thrill, energy or pedigree of truly great vintages. The blend is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Antonio Galloni.
JD 96-98+ (5/2019): Representing 76% of the total production, the 2018 Mouton-Rothschild checks in as 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc brought up in new oak. The most backward and reserved of the First Growths, this deeply colored beauty boasts a rich, layered bouquet of blackcurrants, graphite, scorched earth, and liquid violets. Deep, full-bodied, and seamless on the palate, it's more elegant than the opulently styled 2016, but it’s still an incredibly powerful and promising Mouton that’s going to live for half a century or more.
JS 100 (4/2019): I am a little bit speechless about this one. I have not seen such earthy and totally deep character of the soil in a young Mouton in my career. Of course, I didn’t taste 1945 or 1959 when they were young, but I have been lucky enough to have a few bottles in my life. There is really terroir-driven character to this. Layered and so intense with polished and incredible tannins. |
|
| Ch. Palmer |
2017 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,403.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (12/2019): Very perfumed and subtle with dried flowers and citrus, as well as blue fruit. Full-bodied with wonderfully diffused, integrated tannins that just run over the edges of the wine. It’s extremely polished and very, very long. Fresh and bright. Energetic finish. A thoughtful wine. A blend of 54% merlot, 42% cabernet sauvignon and 4% petit verdot. Drink after 2023.
WA 97+ (3/2020): A blend of 54% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, the deep garnet-purple colored, 2017 Palmer gives a very serious nose of pronounced blackcurrant cordial, warm plums and blackberry preserves with hints of cedar chest, pencil shavings, violets, dark chocolate and star anise plus exotic wafts of sandalwood and cassia. Medium-bodied, the palate features fantastically vibrant, crunchy black fruits with a firm texture of ripe, grainy tannins and tons of freshness, finishing very long and mineral laced. It will need a good 5-7 years to really blossom with all those tightly wound nuances, but it should be a stunner!
VM 96+ (3/2020): One of the wines of the vintage on the Left Bank, the 2017 Palmer is fresh and vibrant, with tons of energy. Veins of supporting salinity and floral overtones lend grace to the Grand Vin in 2017. I imagine Palmer will only blossom with a few years in bottle. Time in the glass brings out pretty notes of dark fruit, mocha, spice, leather and licorice, but overall, the 2017 is quite reticent, especially given what readers have come to expect here. The blend is 54% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. Technical Director Thomas Duroux told me his team harvested all the fruit in nine days as opposed to the more typical 2-3 weeks. The 2017s were done with no SO2 at crush. Duroux stopped the pump overs early and favored gentle extractions. Both wines are in the 13-13.2 range of finished alcohol. Antonio Galloni.
JD 95+ (2/2020): The grand vin 2017 Chateau Palmer checks in as 54% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Petit Verdot brought up in 60% new French oak. This deep purple-colored beauty gives up more cassis fruits as well as hints of chocolate, graphite, smoked herbs, and crushed violets. Beautifully concentrated, rich, and full-bodied, it has a wonderful sense of elegance and purity, laser-like precision, building tannins, and a great finish. Give bottles a solid 7-8 years and it's going to evolve for 25-30 years or more.
WS 95 (3/2020): Dark and winey in feel, with ample blackberry, plum and black currant compote flavors leading the way, while licorice snap, singed apple wood, black tea and dark earth notes fill in throughout. The finish is focused, showing a nice buried iron accent. A powerful version of Margaux and a strong effort in the vintage. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2023 through 2038. |
|
|
2019 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,552.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 99 (2/2023): The 2019 Palmer is beautifully defined on the nose with pencil lead infused black fruit, crushed stone, and hints of pressed flowers. Amazingly well focused. The palate is medium-bodied with supple and exquisitely sculpted tannins, unerring symmetry with a crescendo towards the utterly harmonious and persistent finish. This exudes a sense of completeness. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. (Drink between 2026-2065). Neal Martin.
WA 96+ (4/2022): The 2019 Palmer is a rich, dramatic wine that soars from the glass with aromas of cherries, blackberries and berry fruit liqueur mingled with notions of violets, rose petals and sweet spices. Full-bodied, layered and seamless, it's powerful and immensely concentrated, with an enveloping core of lively fruit that largely conceals the wine's ripe, powdery structuring tannins. Concluding with a long, penetrating finish, it's a brilliant rendition of the contemporary Palmer style from Thomas Duroux and his team. Drink between 2027-2065. |
|
| Les Aromes de Pavie |
2016 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$451.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 94 (2/2019): Since 2015, this estate has made a concerted effort to up the quality of their second wine, adding 4 hectares that previously went into the grand vin as well as purchasing vines on the upper plateau. I’d say it’s working, as the 2016 Aromes de Pavie certainly has a “baby Pavie” feel in its full-bodied, rich, yet elegant profile. Sporting a deep purple color as well as powerful notes of blackberries, truffle, forest floor, and tobacco, it has remarkable purity of fruit, silky tannins, and a great finish. It ranks with the top second wines in Bordeaux and is going to keep for 20-25 years. The blend is 66% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc and 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and was aged in 50% new French oak. (Drink between 2019-2039).
WA 93+ (3/2019): The 2016 Arômes de Pavie has a deep garnet-purple color and is a little closed to begin, slowly revealing notes of crushed red and black cherries, raspberry preserves, plum pudding, blueberry pie and prunes with touches of espresso, star anise, cumin seed and wood smoke plus a waft of dusty soil. Full, firm and grainy structured, the rock-solid frame supports all the generous black and red fruit preserves with plenty of exotic spice nuances, finishing long and earthy.
VM 92 (1/2019): The 2016 Arômes de Pavie is succulent, racy and full of personality. Sweet dark cherry, plum, mocha, new leather and rose petal all grace this silky, super-expressive second wine from Pavie. In an effort to raise the quality of the Arômes, since 2015 the wine includes fruit from four hectares of vineyards on the plateau that were previously used for Pavie. (Drink between 2018-2026). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux |
2010 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,200.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 94 (3/2013): This is lovely, with a powerful backdrop of graphite and tar, harnessed by flavors of velvety plum, steeped fig and black currant preserves. The long incense- and black tea-filled finish completes the seduction. Refined, defined and poised. Best from 2014 through 2025. 10,833 cases made.
VM 92 (4/2020): The 2010 Pavillon Rouge has a delightful, elegant bouquet with wild strawberry, blackberry and cedar aromas, very well defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, veins of blue fruit emerging with time in the glass and with just a touch of salted liquorice towards the finish. This could be à point. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the BI Wines & Spirits 10-Year On tasting. Neal Martin.
WA 91+ (3/2020): Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux offers up scents of blackcurrant cordial, wild thyme and fertile loam with hints of cedar chest, pencil lead and tar. Medium-bodied, the palate is just a tad lean with chewy tannins and bold freshness, finishing on an herbal note. |
|
| Ch. Pichon-Longueville Lalande |
2009 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,630.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (3.2019): Deep garnet colored, the 2009 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a little reticent to begin, slowly giving way to notions of warm black cherries, blackcurrant cordial, stewed plums and sautéed herbs with hints of damp soil, tobacco and beef drippings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with tightly wound black fruit and earthy layers, framed by ripe, fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness making for a long, lively finish. Classic!
JD 95 (3/2022): In the same qualitative ballpark as the 2010, if not a step up, the 2009 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse De Lalande nevertheless offers more immediate pleasure and opulence, with a gorgeous perfume of blackcurrants, lead pencil, unsmoked tobacco, truffle, and spice box. A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, this full-bodied, round, mouth-filling Pauillac has sweet tannins, beautiful mid-palate depth, and a great finish. It needs an hour or two in a decant today to drink brilliantly and will unquestionably evolve gracefully for another 20-25 years.
VM 94 (3/2019): The 2009 Pichon-Lalande offers copious scents of boysenberry, cassis and blue fruit on the nose, a little smudged compared to the Pichon Baron but very pure. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, very rounded in the mouth thanks to the precocious Merlot content, sage and orange rind developing towards the caressing finish. A very sensual Pichon-Lalande, tempting. A great wine although the 2010 has the upper hand. Tasted at BI Wines & Spirits' Ten Year On tasting. Neal Martin.
JS 96 (2/2012): What a great nose of blackberries, currants and spices. Hints of fresh herbs. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and lovely fruit. Such finesse and beauty. Wonderful to taste. Reminds me of the legendary 1982. Try in 2018.
WS 93 (11/2014): The ripe red currant, blackberry and boysenberry fruit is layered with black licorice snap, fruitcake and plum sauce notes. Has the fleshier edge of the vintage but retains a solidly racy graphite spine through the finish. A step behind the '10 in density and energy, though hardly a slouch.—Non-blind Pichon Lalande vertical (July 2014). Best from 2018 through 2035. 15,000 cases made. |
|
|
2018 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,067.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (3/2021): The 2018 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse De Lalande is a monster of a wine with an almost Château Latour-like stature and structure, offering deep, backward, slightly reductive notes of blackcurrants, crushed stone, scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, and tobacco leaf. Based largely on Cabernet Sauvignon mixed with 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, it's full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful on the palate, with masses of tannins, beautiful mid-palate density, and a great finish. As I've commented previously, the up-front, sexy style of the past (due to the larger Merlot content, I believe) has been replaced by a more regal, at times austere profile. Nevertheless, it's still its own wine and very Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in style. This 2018 is going to need 5-7 years of bottle age and will evolve for 40+ years. (Drink between 2026-2066).
VM 97+ (3/2021): The 2018 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande dazzles from the very first taste. A heady concoction of inky dark fruit, graphite, new leather, licorice, lavender, spice and grilled herbs soars out of the glass. The 2018 is rich and expansive yet retains a super-classic vertical feel. Plush, silky tannins add to its immeasurable pedigree. I would cellar the 2018 for a decade or so, if patience permits. It's a stellar wine in the making. (Drink between 2028-2058). Antonio Galloni.
WA 97+ (3/2021): The 2018 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot with a pH of 3.85, an IPT (total polyphenol index) of 87 and 14% alcohol. The grand vin represents 50% of the crop this year. Deep garnet-purple colored, it charges out of the gate with bold scents of baked plums, ripe blackcurrants and wild blueberries, followed by hints of cedar chest, pencil lead, bouquet garni and charcuterie, plus a waft of lilacs. The medium-bodied palate is beautifully crafted with its seamless freshness and firm, grainy tannins supporting the compelling, finely knit black fruits and savory nuances, finishing on a lingering fragrant-earth note. This will need a good 5 years to come around and should easily cellar for another 30 years or more. |
|
| Le Pin |
2015 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$17,115.99 |
2 |
|
| |
JS 100 (12/2018): I am lost for words to describe this young wine, but it’s like walking into the best flower shop in Paris. Flowers galore with dark fruits as well. Full-bodied, very tannic and exotic. Amazing muscle and finesse at the same time. Phenomenal wine. This is half a normal harvest. Greatest ever, clearly. Wait until 2026.
WA 99 (2/2018): Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Le Pin hits the dance floor with a completely gregarious nose of plum preserves, blackberry tart and wild blueberries, boldly accented by suggestions of Chinese five spice, cigar boxes, menthol and violets plus an earthy waft of underbrush. Full-bodied, concentrated, muscular and earthy with a firm backbone of exquisitely ripe, grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, it has an incredibly long finish featuring exotic spice and mineral layers.
WS 97 (3/2018): This delivers a rich torrent of steeped fig, black currant and blackberry compote flavors, melding with a range of bramble, dried anise and singed alder notes. Offers ample grip thanks to a buried graphite edge. This brims with juicy energy, and the fruit seems nearly boundless. Best from 2023 through 2040.
VM 93 (7/2019): This 2015 Le Pin came from a half-bottle supplied by the Thienponts after a vexing showing at the Southwold tasting, where it lacked typicite. This bottle is undoubtedly better and hopefully more representative. Cranberry and raspberry on the nose display much more purity than before, and this is certainly more Pomerol in style, though not terribly complex. The palate is well balanced with fine tannin, silky-smooth texture and a dash of spice toward the finish. Thoroughly enjoyable, but not up to the standard of, say, Petrus or Lafleur. After four or five showings, I do find some bottle variation with the 2015, and I aver that Jacques Thienpont has crafted better Le Pins. Tasted from a half-bottle sent directly from the château. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2019 |
Pomerol
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,457.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Pomerol (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,094.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Les Hauts de Pontet Canet |
2010 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$978.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Pontet Canet |
2011 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,235.99 |
3 |
|
| |
JS 95 (1/2014): A wine with lots of ripe berries, verging on dried fruits. Full and chewy with ripe, round, chewy tannins. It needs lots of bottle age. A wine of steel. From biodynamically grown grapes, as always. Better than from barrel. Try in 2018.
NM 93 (2/2016): Tasted at the Pontet-Canet vertical in London, the 2011 Château Pontet Canet must constitute one of the best wines on the Left Bank, even if it does not quite live up to its stellar performance from barrel. Lucid purple in color, the bouquet leaps from the glass and yells "Pauillac" - thanks to its graphite seam interwoven through the black fruit. Over ten minutes, tobacco scents join the fray and it develops what you might call "mint fresh" aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied and remains understated on the entry, perhaps exaggerated by the exuberance of the nose. However, there is no question that this is a refined, pure and seamless Pontet-Canet with crème de cassis and cedar inter-layered on the sustained finish. Bon vin.
WS 92 (3/2014): This cuts a broad swath, with prominent notes of espresso and ganache leading to the core of crushed plum and blackberry confiture. Lush, with the ganache edge joining a loamy hint to underscore the finish. Consistent with the barrel tasting, this shows more breadth than cut in the end. Best from 2016 through 2026.
VM 89+ (7/2014): Vivid ruby. Very ripe scents of dark plum, graphite and leather and a strong note of underbrush on the initially reduced nose. Fleshy and smooth on entry, showing hefty, slightly warm, ripe dark fruit and licorice flavors, but turns austere on the long back end, finishing with tight tannins and a metallic edge. Really not much fun presently, and very different from what I remember at the Primeurs: I imagine the sample I tried most recently was in the process of shutting down. I wouldn't pull the cork on this for at least another four or five years. Ian d'Agata. |
|
|
2017 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$568.99 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 96 (3/2020): Composed of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Pontet-Canet gives up beautifully fragrant notes of rosehip tea, lilacs, cinnamon stick, cloves, dried leaves and underbrush with a core of kirsch, raspberry coulis, warm plums and red and black currants plus a waft of pencil shavings. Medium-bodied, the palate is refreshing, minerally and wonderfully elegant with a well-played texture of approachable, plush tannins and a long, fragrant finish. Beautiful. Aging took place in 50% new and 15% in second fill barrels and the remaining 35% in amphorae for 16 months, much of the material for which came from the soil at Pontet-Canet!
JS 96 (12/2019): This has ethereal transparency to it with a fresh, red-berry and cherry nose. Terra-cotta and dried-flower notes. Plums, too. Quite complex. The palate has a very detailed tannin texture with attractive cassis and blueberries that hold very long, fresh and pure. Fruity and fresh. Try from 2023.
VM 95 (3/2020): A gorgeous, alluring Pauillac, the 2017 Pontet-Canet is racy and exceptionally polished, with floral top notes that bring out the natural brightness of the red-toned fruit. Super-silky tannins add to the wine's immediacy and sheer allure. The 2017 was the first wine made with the new sorting table. About half the fruit was destemmed by hand. As always, visiting Pontet-Canet is like stepping back into another time, a time in which wines were made much more manually than they are today. Here that means manual punch downs and pump overs, with no electricity. Harvest ran from September 18 through October 4. The blend is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Aging was done 50% in new oak, 35% in amphora and 15% in one year-old oak. Tasted three times. Antonio Galloni.
WS 94 (3/2020): Very tight, with notes of wet stone, plum pit and chalky minerality leading the way, backed by an ample core of steeped currant, blackberry and black cherry fruit waiting to unfurl. The finish smolders with cast iron details. Should round into form with cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2024 through 2040.
JD 93 (2/2020): Deep ruby/purple-hued and based on 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2017 Chateau Pontet-Canet spent 16 months in a 50% new barrels, 35% in amphora, and the balance in once-used barrels. It's an exceedingly elegant Pontet-Canet that has textbook Pauillac notes of blackcurrants, unsmoked tobacco, lead pencil shavings, new leather, and flowery incense. It's not a blockbuster and reminds me slightly of the 2004, yet it has wonderful depth of fruit, ultra-fine tannins, and beautiful purity and elegance. It's already approachable, but it’s going to be even better with 5-6 years of bottle age and have 20-25 years of prime drinking. |
|
| Ch. Rauzan-Segla |
2019 |
Margaux (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$490.98 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (4/2022): The Grand Vin 2019 Château Rauzan-Ségla is beautiful, and it seems this estate can do no wrong since 2015. A more elegant, ethereal, complex Margaux, it has a perfumed and complex style in its red, blue, and black fruits as well as notes of white flowers, chalky minerality, and exotic spices. Haute couture at its finest and seamless, medium to full-bodied, perfectly balanced, and just stunning any way you look at it, it already offers pleasure today yet will easily have 30 years of prime drinking.
VM 97 (2/2022): The 2019 Rauzan-Ségla is a wine that I did not taste en primeur. Picked from September 12 to October 9 and matured in 60% new oak, it has a gorgeous, seductive bouquet of pure blackberry, bilberry, crushed iris petals and just a hint of licorice. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and good cohesion and depth. The oak is seamlessly integrated on the finish, which lingers like a temptress. Two samples tasted, the second demonstrating a little more salinity on the aftertaste. This will be irresistible. Neal Martin.
WA 96 (4/2022): The 2019 Rauzan-Ségla has turned out brilliantly, unwinding in the glass with fragrant aromas of cassis, blackberries, violets, rose petals and sweet soil tones. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and concentrated, it's deep and layered, with beautifully refined tannins, lively acids and a long, perfumed finish. This is a sensual, elegant Rauzan-Ségla from Nicolas Audebert and his team. |
|
| Ch. Smith Haut Lafitte |
2014 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$701.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 96 (2/2017): A big black-cherry and bitter-chocolate nose leads into a rich, concentrated palate, where the fruit easily holds sway over the powerful, dry tannins. It’s these that drive everything along right through to the assertive, slightly earthy finish; impressive long-term stuff! Try in 2021.
VM 94 (2/2017): In 2014 Smith Haut Lafitte produced an exceptionally soft, sexy Grand Vin. Dark cherry, plum, tobacco, licorice, menthol and red-toned fruit are all nicely delineated, while expressive floral notes give the wine a closing flourish of aromatic intensity. The 2014 is quite pretty, if a touch slender. It will drink well with minimal cellaring given its soft contours and supple, inviting personality. The blend is 62 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 % Merlot, 6 % Cabernet Franc and 2 % Petit Verdot. Tasted two times. Antonio Galloni.
WS 94 (3/2017): This has a generous feel, with ripe fig, boysenberry and blueberry compote fruit flavors that are entwined with alluring roasted apple wood, melted licorice and warm fruitcake notes. The broad, mouthcoating finish has a terrific graphite underpinning to stay honest. Best from 2020 through 2035. 10,000 cases made.
JD 93 (11/2017): The 2014 Smith Haut Lafitte shows the elegant style of the vintage, yet the depth of fruit that’s common from this estate. Blackberries, currants, scorched earth, spicy oak and tobacco leaf nuances give way to a medium to full-bodied, beautifully textured 2014 that has ripe tannin and nicely integrated acidity. It has tons of character and is a beautiful, elegant wine to drink over the coming 15 years or so.
WA 93 (3/2017): The 2014 Smith-Haut-Lafitte has a fragrant mulberry and strawberry scented bouquet with cedar and subtle undergrowth scents emerging with time. There is something almost Musigny-like here (written as a complement incidentally—why not be compared to the greatest Burgundy Grand Cru?). The palate is medium-bodied with a soft and mellow opening. Quite spicy in the mouth with leather-tinged fruit on the open and inviting finish, there is something very approachable about this Smith-Haut-Lafitte, though like the 2014 Pape-Clement, it contains the substance to drink well over 10-15 years. |
|
| Ch. Talbot |
2020 |
St. Julien (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$339.98 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 95 (2/2023): The 2020 Talbot is every bit as impressive as it was from barrel. Strong Cabernet Sauvignon inflections open first in the bouquet, leading into a rich palate laced with expressive dark cherry and plum fruit. A Saint-Julien of power and stature, Talbot is fabulous in 2020. I love the breadth and overall intensity here, but there is just as much focus to keep things in balance. The 2020 is superb, certainly the best in recent memory. Antonio Galloni.
JD 94 (3/2023): Another gorgeous 2020, the 2020 Château Talbot has an almost Pauillac-like sense of graphite and lead pencil as well as ripe blackcurrant fruit, medium to full body, and abundant notes of smoked tobacco, leather, and dried herbs. It shows the more focused, almost austere, yet still ripe style of the vintage and has terrific mid-palate depth, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. There's an almost old school Bordeaux-like vibe in this beauty, but it's not rustic in any way, the balance is spot on, and it has loads of character. I'd be thrilled with bottles in the cellar. It's going to evolve nicely for two decades or more. |
|
| Ch. Trotanoy |
2000 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,962.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 97 (12/2015): Still a bit of a brick house, with very solid charcoal and loam notes forming the base while the core of dense fig, blackberry and black currant confiture flavors settles in. This is seriously long, and the smoldering tobacco and roasted alder notes just keep going and going through the finish. This hasn't really started to unwind yet.--Blind 2000 Bordeaux retrospective (December 2015). Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,000 cases made.
JS 95 (12/2010): This starts off with fabulous aromas of milk chocolate, plums and subtle spices. Full bodied, with super silky tannins and a long, long finish. Tight but just starting to open up. I’m loving the fresh acidity at the end. Needs another five to six years bottle age. Pull the cork in 2016.
WA 95 (11/2016): Tasted at the Trotanoy vertical in Hong Kong, the 2000 Trotanoy seems to be improving with age. It has an outstanding bouquet with far more fruit intensity than I anticipated: mulberry, blackberry, briary, broom and white pepper all mingling together with superb delineation. The palate displays exquisite balance, fresh and focused with a clean and precise finish that is only just beginning to show what it can do. Like so many millennial Bordeaux it has matured at its own pace, however, on this showing it seems determined to reward those with the greatest patience.
NM 94 (5/2007): A very deep, almost opaque garnet colour. A very intense nose of blackberry, plum, a touch of hoi sin and a touch of liquorice. Broody and backward but it will reward those with patience to cellar. The palate is full-bodied, quite tannic and suffused with puissance. Masculine, a touch of tobacco and roasted herbs on the back palate from the Cabernet Franc. Intense, quite conservative and introverted at the moment. Great length. A superb Trotanoy, but one presently closing down. Drink 2015-2035.
VM 94+ (3/2012): 95% merlot and 5% cabernet franc): Deep, saturated red. Highly perfumed nose of black plum, lavender, cedar, chocolate and Oriental spices. Enters sweet, round and broad, then turns a bit tougher, with hints of earth and game complicating bright cassis and mocha flavors. There is an amazing freshness to this wine that helps extend the fruit flavors at the back, and the finish is long and smooth. In this vintage's early days it was tightly wound and austere, but it's now beginning to slowly blossom and become more expressive. This is often the case with Trotanoy, which usually needs a good ten years from the vintage to really come into its own. A very successful 2000. Ian d'Agata. |
|
| | Bordeaux White |
| Ch. Carbonnieux |
2022 |
Pessac Leognan Blanc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$290.99 |
10 |
|
| |
JD 91-93 (5/2023): The 2022 Château Carbonnieux Blanc offers a light gold hue as well as a bright, racy, juicy style in its citrus, pineapple, and minty herb-like aromas and flavors. These carry over to the palate, where the wine is medium-bodied, has notable purity, and outstanding length.
WA 91-93+ (5/2023): A blend of 65% Sauvignon and 35% Sémillon, the 2022 Carbonnieux Blanc reveals a delicate bouquet with aromas of lemon, jasmine, linden, smoke, pear and peach, followed by a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and concentrated palate that's deep and harmonious, with a bright core of fruit and a zesty, mineral-driven finish. Built around racy acids, this is a very classy Carbonnieux Blanc that's built to age with grace. Harvest here began early, on 16 August. |
|
| Ch. de Rayne-Vigneau |
2016 |
Sauternes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$372.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| JS 92-93 (4/2017): Lovely density and richness with a good amount of botrytis character. Medium to full body and a bright finish. |
|
| Ch. Rieussec |
2023 |
Sauternes (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$642.99 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. d' Yquem |
2002 |
Sauternes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,248.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 96 (7/2006): Beautiful apple, vanilla and honey aromas, with just the right amount of new wood. Full-bodied, medium sweet, with lots of pretty pineapple and honey. Long and refined. A beautifully silky and balanced Sauternes. Lots of intensity and well-knit. Unrivaled in this vintage. Best after 2009. 6,500 cases made. |
|
|
2004 |
Sauternes (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,956.97 |
2 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (7/2012): Tropically ripe, with dense yet creamy layers of guava, mango, lychee and papaya, all stitched with racy lemon cream and candied grapefruit peel notes. Frangipane-framed finish pumps out wave after wave of unctuous fruit. Starting to hits its second gear, and with old-school Yquem power and muscle. Drink now through 2032. 5,000 cases made. |
|
|
2021 |
Sauternes (3x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$543.98 |
16 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (2/2024): The 2021 d'Yquem exhibits a complex bouquet of rose, exotic fruits and mandarin orange mingled with spring flowers, rose and crème brûlée, followed by a medium to full-bodied, ample and seamless palate that's suave and layered, with a deep core and a long finish that's lent definition by delicate bitterness that offsets the 148 grams per liter residual sugar. This blend of 65% Sémillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc was matured, as usual, in all new barrels, but the new oak is perfectly integrated and barely noticeable. |
|
|
2023 |
Ygrec "Y" du Yquem Bordeaux Superieur (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,232.98 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| | Burgundy Red |
| Dom. Marquis d' Angerville |
2007 |
Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,458.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 93 (12/2010): A beauty, from its haunting aromas of wild cherry, berry, floral and spice to the silky texture and lingering aftertaste. There's a sinewy feel on the finish, ending on sweet fruit and spice notes. Drink now through 2023. 140 cases imported.
BH 92-95 (4/2009): This too is mildly reduced, making the nose difficult to accurately read though the lacy, pure and laser-like precision and focus of the medium weight flavors is nothing short of remarkable and here the emphasis on a base of stone is perhaps even more pronounced than in the Taillepieds, all wrapped in a harmonious, understated yet driving finish that does not seem to stop for several minutes. This is a not a big Ducster but for purity of delivery, it's hard to beat and the balance is impeccable. Don't miss! Outstanding! Drink: 2017+
VM 92 (4/2010): Medium red. Darker aromas of black cherry and spices. Dense and spicy on the palate; fuller and sweeter than the Taillepieds but also quite fresh and built to age. This is still a bit stunted from the mise but the substantial dusty tannins display lovely sweetness. Aeration brought impressive early complexity.
WA 91 (6/2010): The d’Angerville’s 2007 Volnay Clos Des Ducs is far more concentrated and youthful in aspect than its Champans counterpart, with blackberry, cherry pit, black tea, crushed stone, and iodine combining with relative firmness of texture, but with compensatory richness of beef marrow adding to its darkly-hued, bitter-edged, somber complexity. I suspect that this palate-staining Volnay will keep longer than most of its ilk in this vintage, perhaps 8-10 years. |
|
|
2022 |
Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,807.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Arlaud |
2017 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,418.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Denis Bachelet |
2015 |
Gevrey Chambertin Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$840.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Cotes de Nuits Villages (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$620.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Ghislaine Barthod |
2008 |
Chambolle Musigny (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,725.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 88-89 (6/2010): Smoky black tea, pungent brown spices, and tart cherry inform a Barthod 2008 Chambolle-Musigny of enervating brightness yet incipient textural richness. Tart and pungent in its lasting finish, this will no doubt strike some tasters as leaning toward austerity, but I anticipate an exuberant, highly versatile and stimulating performer at table over the next half dozen years if not longer. “Especially in a challenging vintage," notes Barthod, “my village Chambolle benefits from originating in so many and such diverse locations."
VM 87-90 (4/2010): Full, bright red. Pretty aromas of raspberry and flowers. Juicy, intensely flavored and perfumed; with its sappy acidity, this really stimulates the salivary glands. Finishes with suave tannins and noteworthy energy. As strong an early showing for this straight village wine as I can remember. Of course, this wine had the advantage of having been racked at the beginning of September, whereas the premier crus had been racked just a couple weeks before my early November visit.
BH 86-89 (1/2010): A more elegant and ever-so-slightly riper nose also displays very high-toned red pinot fruit that is in keeping with the lacy, textured, detailed and minerally middle weight flavors that are racy, linear and precise on the firm and persistent finish. This is not overly complex, at least not yet though this may come with a few years in bottle. Drink: 2013+. |
|
|
2015 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Beaux Bruns (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,427.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 90-92 (1/2017): (from a .75 ha parcel of 50+ year old vines.) This is almost a combination of the Combottes and Chatelots with its wonderfully layered nose of kirsch, spice, tea, violet and lavender scents. There is once again fine richness to the sappy and palate coating medium weight flavors that possess both a taut muscularity and power that carries over to the impressively persistent finale where about the only nit is a hint of warmth. Drink 2023+. |
|
|
2017 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Cras (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,346.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Louis Boillot et Fils |
2015 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Champonnets (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$652.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Sylvain Cathiard |
2022 |
Vosne Romanee (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,472.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Jean Chauvenet |
2015 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Les Perrieres (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$594.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Joseph Drouhin |
2019 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses (2x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,664.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| David Duband |
2022 |
Gevrey Chambertin (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$516.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Bernard Dugat-Py |
2019 |
Mazoyeres Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,622.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Dujac |
2017 |
Le Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$24,948.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Faiveley |
2019 |
Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$701.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Fourrier |
2015 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques Vieilles Vignes (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,448.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Griotte Chambertin Vieilles Vignes (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,470.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Jean Grivot |
2015 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Les Boudots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,282.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Reignots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,138.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Robert Groffier |
2015 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Sentiers (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,799.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$8,185.99 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$8,350.99 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Alain Hudelot-Noellat |
2018 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$967.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Henri Jouan |
2015 |
Clos St. Denis Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,589.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Francois Lamarche |
2014 |
La Grande Rue Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,655.98 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 95 (1/2017): Here there is less wood in evidence but also noticeably better complexity to the exceptionally spicy nose of plum, earth, Asian-style tea and pronounced floral scents. This is really quite refined as the caressing mid-palate is pure silk which contributes significantly to the sense of elegance of the medium weight flavors that are blessed with very fine concentration as well as plenty of palate coating dry extract on the markedly firm but not hard finale. This impeccably well-balanced effort should amply reward extended cellaring. Drink 2029+.
WA 93-95 (12/2015): The 2014 La Grande Rue Grand Cru has a wonderful bouquet similar to the Grands Echezeaux, though at the moment albeit without the same degree of complexity. Perhaps this is just more backward at the moment. The palate is very well balanced with a keen line of acidity, nicely structured, perhaps just a little more conservative than the Grands Echezeaux, but maybe that means it will offer more once in bottle. One has the sense of a La Grande Rue just biding its time. Hopefully one day I will find out its qualities once in bottle. |
|
|
2017 |
La Grande Rue Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,286.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$203.99 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair |
2006 |
Echezeaux Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$13,452.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
La Romanee Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$32,029.98 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 96 (1/2011): A deft touch of wood frames gorgeously complex, elegant, pure and refined aromas that feature ample amounts of spice to the cool red currant and plum notes that complement to perfection the highly sophisticated medium-bodied flavors that possess an abundance of dry extract that buffers the dense but fine tannins on the balanced and superbly persistent finish that exhibits a bit less youthful austerity than I typically see. This really opens on the finish with simply marvelous breadth. A magnificent wine of class and indisputable grace. Drink 2023+.
WA 96 (5/2011): The 2008 La Romanee shows off the weightless elegance and sheer breed that only this site is capable of. Silky tannins frame the fruit in this totally elegant, understated Burgundy. The endless finish wafts on the palate for what seems like an eternity. This is a gorgeous wine from Liger-Belair. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033.
VM 95 (4/2011): Good medium red. Dark raspberry, earthy spices, mint, minerals, game and smoky minerality on the nose. Dense and energetic; large-scaled and brooding. This boasts the spherical texture and fat of a riper year. Perhaps not as brilliantly delineated as the Reignots today but this is plusher, broader and deeper wine. Finishes extremely long, scented and subtle, with firm tannic grip. |
|
| Dom. Hubert Lignier |
2021 |
Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Les Blanchards (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$832.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Lignier Michelot |
2014 |
Clos St. Denis Grand Cru (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,945.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Morey St. Denis Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$597.97 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Maume |
2017 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St. Jacques (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$791.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Meo-Camuzet |
2012 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,418.98 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 94 (1/2015): (from a huge 3 ha parcel superbly placed high on the slope, across from the Château; there will be no special cuvee in 2012) Subtle oak frames intensely an earthy yet cool and airy red and dark berry fruit suffused nose that is trimmed in gentle hints of spice and sandalwood. The mid-palate of the middle weight flavors is quite supple and round though the vibrant and highly complex finish tightens up immediately. I like the balance and sense of tension and overall, this should also age beautifully yet also be reasonably approachable in its youth. Drink 2024+.
WA 93-95 (12/2013): The 2012 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, which sees almost 100% new oak, has quite a sensual bouquet underneath that carapace of new oak that is embroidered nicely with the fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe but firm tannins that lend this Clos de Vougeot bewitching symmetry. Silky smooth in texture, it feels long and assertive on the finish, but never over-powering. Excellent.
VM 93 (3/2015): Medium red. Complex, multifaceted nose combines cherry liqueur, raspberry, rose petal and truffley underbrush. Ripe, complex and deep, showing lovely spicy lift to the flavors of redcurrant, menthol, truffle and dried flowers. Tightens up on the very long, spicy back end, with the sexy earth and dried flower notes persisting. This is already remarkably sexy juice but will reward cellaring. |
|
| Maison Mommessin |
2007 |
Clos de Tart Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,246.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 94 (10/2010): Intense aromas of graphite and mineral make an immediate impact, with black cherry, black currant and spice flavors adding depth and dimension. This has concentration and a juicy texture, pushing the long, peppery aftertaste. Shows fine harmony and expression overall. Best from 2012 through 2024. 281 cases imported.
BH 92 (1/2010): (less than 20% whole cluster). An expressive and quite cool nose blends floral notes, discreet wood, spice hints and ripe black pinot and plum that seamlessly intermingle with rich, delicious and impressively concentrated big-bodied flavors that possess really lovely acid/fruit/tannin balance, all wrapped in a complex, serious and palate staining finish. The subtle influence of the stem tannins gives the very rich, indeed almost lush finish an appealing sense of lift. This displays excellent potential to develop over the next 10 to 15 years and it should last 30. Drink 2017+.
WA 93 (6/2010): Sweetly perfumed with flowers and with black fruit candies that render a confectionary impression on the palate (and Sylvain Pitiot did not demur from my description: “bonbon-like"), the 2007 Clos de Tart manages to harmoniously integrate vanilla, caramel, and resin from new wood. Even more than in the corresponding 2008, fresh juiciness of cassis and black raspberry and a saliva-stimulating salinity lend this lift and enticement so that it doesn’t become another too-familiar modern-day exercise in mere dark berry jam on a new oaken shingle. Sandalwood and black tea contribute further interest. Judgments will differ depending on the degree to which one is attracted by the style of this polished and persistent confection of Pinot Noir, but it certainly reflects what Pitiot describes as “my intention - and my taste - (namely) always to harvest just before the limiting point of over-ripeness and excess is reached." I would anticipate this showcasing its virtues and Pitiot’s ideal over the next 7-10 years, and doubt that the 2008 will ever be able to compensate for its relatively less charm, seductiveness, or seamlessness.
VM 91 (2/2019): The 2007 Clos de Tart Grand Cru was picked at 27hl/ha from September 6 with 13.66° alcohol, and matured in new oak for 18 months. It is consistent with the style of the vintage – relatively light compared to the “grumpy” 2006, offering vivacious cranberry, crushed strawberry and red currant fruit that intermingles with subtle oyster shell aromas. The palate is replete with sappy red fruit and, like before, there is a subtle Oriental element to this 2007: just a splash of sweet and sour toward the fleshy, smooth finish. One of Pitiot’s more approachable offerings. Enjoy this straightforward but enjoyable Clos de Tart over the next decade. Tasted at a private Clos de Tart dinner in London. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2014 |
Clos de Tart Grand Cru (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,200.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Georges Noellat |
2018 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,062.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Prieure-Roch |
2011 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,762.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. E. Rouget |
2013 |
Nuits St. Georges (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,508.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Armand Rousseau |
2006 |
Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$12,614.98 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 96 (7/2010): Though compact now, this is full of sweet black cherry, black currant, licorice and mineral aromas and flavors. There's a harmonious feeling overall, with dense, well-integrated tannins and bright acidity, followed by a fine, lingering aftertaste. Best from 2014 through 2032. 27 cases imported.
BH 92 (1/2009): ( from yields of only 17 hl/ha in 2006.) This departs from its normal expressiveness by being much more restrained and if not backward, then at least relatively reticent on the spicy red berry fruit nose that quietly introduces very concentrated, brooding, superbly powerful and equally well focused flavors underpinned by very firm tannins and plenty of underlying tension as you can really sense the energy here on the youthfully austere and ever so slightly dry finish that doesn't have the same phenolic ripeness level as the Chambertin. It's interesting because this is so cool and backward that in 2006, it's more Chambertin than Bèze. Drink 2018+. |
|
| Dom. Cecile Tremblay |
2016 |
Chambolle Musigny Les Cabottes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,091.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Comte de Vogue |
2005 |
Musigny Grand Cru Cuvee Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,474.99 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 99 (1/2008): Prepare to be transported. A positively brilliant nose of violet and rose petal shines against a background of intensely spiced extravagant red and black pinot fruit nuanced by hints of earth and stone and this minerality continues onto the surprisingly supple flavors that convey a remarkable sense of energy and power on the almost unbelievably intense, focused and structured finish that seems to go on and on without end. And the '05 VV has what all truly great burgundies have which is that extra dimension of power without weight as this carries terrific punch and power yet delivers that explosiveness with impeccable class and grace. While I am duly mindful of the many legendary wines this domaine has produced (see the database for all vintages reviewed dating to 1919), the 2005 could very well join the list of the all time greats, there is really that much potential here. Whether it will ultimately transcend the heights achieved by the 1919 or the 1949 (among many others) remains an open question, I have zero doubt that 2005 will be a genuinely great vintage for this wine. Brilliance personified and absolutely a 'wow' wine, in fact, this merits a double 'wow'.
WA 96-98 (4/2007): My notes on the 2005 Musigny Vieilles Vignes represent a composite impression from a selection of barrels. There can be little question that this deep, dark wine displays its class of origin, indeed a class of its own in this year’s collection. Fresh black raspberry, pomegranate, blackberry, and iris dominate the nose and stain the palate. A wealth of spice, mineral, chalky and bitter-sweet floral nuances persistently wreath the fruit at all stages. This shows lovely creaminess of texture in counterpoint to the persistent freshness of fruit. The intensely rich yet refreshing palate saturation and tenacious cling exhibited auger well for extended cellaring yet don’t detract from an impression of utmost elegance and refinement. The domaine will begin bottling the wines in spring and all will, as usual, receive “the minimum, gentlest possible" filtration. Francois Millet notes that skin-to-juice ratios this year were as formidably high as those of 2003, yet thanks to relatively mild temperatures, the fruit retained what he terms a “sorbet-like presentation." |
|
|
2009 |
Musigny Grand Cru Cuvee Vieilles Vignes (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,020.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (4/2012): The 2009 Musigny Vieilles Vignes fleshes out beautifully with endless layers of fruit that caress the palate in stunning style. Sweet floral notes meld into expressive dark red fruit in this mysterious, evocative Burgundy. There is a weightless intensity to the Musigny that is achingly gorgeous.
BH 96 (1/2012): A fantastically complex nose offers up aromas of rose petals, violets, mint, cassis, black berry and a plethora of spice nuances that continue onto the intense and remarkably powerful imposingly constructed flavors that are blessed with buckets of dry extract that render the presently rigid tannic spine almost invisible on the impeccably and palate staining finish that seems to persist without end. As was the case from cask, I could still taste this several hours later and if given sufficient cellar time, this should be a very fine vintage for this storied wine. Drink 2029+.
VM 95+ (4/2012): Good bright, deep red. Raspberry liqueur, crushed rock and vanillin oak on the suave, subdued nose; shows the greatest lift of these 2009s. Superconcentrated and creamy but light on its feet, displaying terrific energy and sappiness for 2009. Gained in verve with aeration, with high-pitched, tangy flavors of raspberry, pomegranate, flowers and minerals spreading out to saturate the mouth. With its finishing perfume and taste of limestone, this really transcends the vintage. |
|
|
2022 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,941.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. de la Vougeraie |
2022 |
Musigny Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$907.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Dom. Henri Boillot |
2017 |
Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,964.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Jean Marc Boillot |
2022 |
Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,395.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2022 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,147.99 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 96 (6/2024): (from Aloxe.) A markedly floral-suffused nose somewhat grudgingly reveals its array of exuberantly fresh and spicy Granny Smith apple, acacia blossom, oyster shell and iodine. While there is certainly good richness to the succulent and seductive broad-shouldered flavors, the mouthfeel is really quite sleek with both good detail and power to the taut, serious and built-to-age finale that is given a bit of lift from the presence of bitter citrus rind. This is almost painfully intense and youthfully austere effort could use better depth but that should present no particular problem if it's given a chance to develop. This too is first-rate. Drink 2034+. Don't miss!
VM 93-95 (1/2024): The 2022 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru is a blend of fruit from Aloxe-Corton (75%) and Pernand-Vergelesses (25%), a combination that works well in giving the wine balance. There's quite a bit of phenolic intensity and youthful austerity here. Herbs, crushed rocks, graphite, mint and citrus confit build nicely. I very much admire the vibrancy here, even if the 2022 remains a bit unyielding today. Neal Martin. |
|
| Dom. Bonneau du Martray |
2016 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru |
$400 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,483.99 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru |
$400 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2022): The 2018 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru has a reductive nose but there is some fine fruit here, touches of orange pith, honeysuckle and melted candle wax. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, a hint of wood to be subsumed on the entry, impressive depth with a slightly toasty finish. Tasted blind at the Burgfest 2018 white tasting. (Drink between 2024-2035.) Neal Martin.
BH 93 (9/2023): A ripe yet attractively fresh, cool, pure and elegant nose combines notes of various white fleshed fruit scents that in particular include Granny Smith and pear, along with hints of citrus and wet stone. There is excellent intensity as well as fine richness to the detailed and mineral-driven flavors where the minerality adds a sense of lift to the complex and sneaky long finale. While indisputably young, it's not so backward that it couldn't be approached now even though a few more years of keeping should help to add better depth. (Drink starting 2026.) |
|
|
2021 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru |
$600 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 93-96 (1/2023): Firm reduction renders the nose tough to evaluate though there is both fine freshness and verve to the impressively dense yet well detailed larger-bodied flavors that terminate in a clean, dry and strikingly long finish that is already displaying outstanding depth. This is potentially a knockout as it is seriously good though I underscore that at least moderate patience will be necessary. (Drink starting 2033).
WA 93-95 (1/2023): Cropped at a mere eight hectoliters per hectare after being hit by the April frosts and then challenged by severe disease pressure, the 2021 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru has nevertheless turned out beautifully, offering up aromas of tangerine oil, crisp stone fruit, clear honey, white flowers and freshly baked bread. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and textural, with terrific depth at the core, tangy acids and a precise, saline finish, it will only gain with further élevage. |
|
|
2021 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,647.99 |
4 |
|
| |
BH 93-96 (1/2023): Firm reduction renders the nose tough to evaluate though there is both fine freshness and verve to the impressively dense yet well detailed larger-bodied flavors that terminate in a clean, dry and strikingly long finish that is already displaying outstanding depth. This is potentially a knockout as it is seriously good though I underscore that at least moderate patience will be necessary. (Drink starting 2033).
WA 93-95 (1/2023): Cropped at a mere eight hectoliters per hectare after being hit by the April frosts and then challenged by severe disease pressure, the 2021 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru has nevertheless turned out beautifully, offering up aromas of tangerine oil, crisp stone fruit, clear honey, white flowers and freshly baked bread. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and textural, with terrific depth at the core, tangy acids and a precise, saline finish, it will only gain with further élevage. |
|
| J.-F. Coche-Dury |
2021 |
Meursault (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$10,915.98 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 93 (6/2024): Restrained and distinctly cool aromas include a plethora of floral nuances that add elegance to the white orchard fruit, citrus and soft hazelnut wisps. The incredibly low yields are in evidence as the mouthfeel of the medium-bodied flavors is almost thick yet the bright citrus-tinged acid spine keeps everything in focus on the strikingly long, bone-dry and markedly austere finale. This is a superb Meursault villages and very much built-to-age, indeed it's absolutely going to need it.
WA 92 (1/2024): Aromas of crisp orchard fruit, white flowers, hazelnuts and clear honey introduce Coche's 2021 Meursault Village, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive wine with a pretty core of fruit girdled by tangy acids and chalky extract, concluding with a long, palate staining finish.
VM 89 (1/2024): The 2021 Meursault Village, this vintage a blend of all their vineyard holdings because the yield was so small (for example, just two barrels from half a hectare in Narvaux), has a taut and delineated bouquet with crushed stone infusing the malic aromas. The palate is well-balanced with a twist of lemon on the entry, segueing into more orange rind notes towards the finish. Moderate length. Enjoy this over the next decade. Neal Martin. |
|
| Dom. Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey |
2018 |
Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,208.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrieres (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,941.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (1/2021): The 2018 Meursault 1er Cru Perrières exhibits notes of crisp orchard, citrus zest, freshly baked bread, toasted almonds and nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied, racy and incisive, it's a tightly wound, electric wine despite the warm, generous vintage. At this early stage, this is even more impressive than Pierre-Yves Colin's Chassagne Caillerets—something that isn't invariably the case. |
|
|
2019 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Champs Gains (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,525.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Joseph Drouhin |
2014 |
Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,534.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Arnaud Ente |
2019 |
Meursault (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,613.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Leflaive |
2018 |
Bienvenues Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,834.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. M. Niellon |
2019 |
Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,415.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,813.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. de la Pousse d'Or |
2023 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$361.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Jean-Claude Ramonet |
2022 |
Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Les Ruchottes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,225.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Puligny Montrachet Les Enseignieres (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,598.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Francois Raveneau |
2018 |
Chablis (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,103.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Etienne Sauzet |
2018 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Referts (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,555.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Le Montrachet Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,971.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Bollinger |
2008 |
Grande Annee Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,172.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 97 (7/2019): Bollinger's 2008 Grande Annee is rich, ample and full-bodied, with all of the pedigree of the vintage on display. Dried pear, dried flowers, chamomile, red plum and mint develop as the 2008 shows the breadth and creaminess that are such signatures of the Bollinger house style. A whole range of brighter, more floral and chalky notes appear later, adding translucence and energy. The 2008 is 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay taken across 18 crus, and it is the Pinot that very much informs the wine in both flavor and texture. More importantly, the 2008 is one of the best Grande Annees I can remember tasting. Bollinger fans won't want to miss it. Disgorged November 2018. Dosage is 8 grams per liter. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Grande Annee Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$824.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (3/2022): Offering up complex aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit, confit citrus, frangipane, walnuts, dried white flowers and subtle hints of iodine, Bollinger's 2014 Brut La Grande Année is medium to full-bodied, pillowy and vinous, with an elegantly fleshy core of fruit that's underpinned by racy acids and complemented by a pretty pinpoint mousse. Concluding with a long, chalky finish, this is a charming but precise Grande Année that's more giving and demonstrative than its immediate predecessor, the 2012, but which attains a very similar level of quality in a more challenging vintage—testimony to the serious viticulture that underpins Bollinger's contemporary excellence. |
|
| Charles Heidsieck |
2007 |
Blanc des Millenaires Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$959.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| Krug |
1995 |
Brut Champagne
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$777.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (12/2006): Light yellow. Rich and powerful, with leesy pear and white truffle aromas accented by gentle notes of white pepper and cinnamon. Extremely powerful Krug, with rich orchard fruit flavors, a velvety texture and warm, rich, inviting notes of brioche and creme brulee Finishes with intense pear and peach flavors and lingering notes of smoke, iodine and toffee. One of the most concentrated Champagnes I tried this year. |
|
|
NV |
Brut Grande Cuvee 170th Edition Champagne
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$291.99 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Laherte Freres |
NV |
Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$347.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Bruno Paillard |
2014 |
Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$677.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Louis Roederer |
2005 |
Cristal Rose Champagne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,870.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Cristal Champagne (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$585.99 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 98 (12/2019): The 2012 Cristal is another absolutely stellar wine this flight of recent releases. Rich, vinous and beautifully textured, the 2012 has been nothing short of magnificent on the three occasions I have tasted it so far. In the glass, the 2012 is radiant and luscious, yet it possesses remarkable transparency and striking aromatic depth. Light tropical notes develop in the glass, giving the 2012 a real feeling of exotic beauty. The 2012 is the first vintage of Cristal done with 100% organically-farmed fruit, an approach introduced gradually starting with the 2007 that has profoundly changes Cristal, especially in its aromatic breadth. Two thousand twelve is the vintage where endless trials and experiments in farming and winemaking are fully realized. The 2012 is just stunning. It’s as simple as that. Dosage is just over 7 grams per liter, the lowest it has even been for Cristal. Antonio Galloni.
JS 98 (7/2019): Such attractive, fresh, floral aromas here with fine bread, hints of white almonds and a lemon edge. White cherries and strong, chalky minerals, too. The palate has a very composed feel. Seamless and quite silky texture with effortless length and flow. Very fluid and composed. Very late, warming almond flavors. This is very long and smooth with a velvety finish. Super long pinot weight. Resolved and drinkable, but will age so well.
WA 97+ (12/2019): Aromas of clear honey, crisp green orchard fruit, white peach, pastry cream and dried white flowers introduce the 2012 Cristal, a full-bodied, concentrated and powerful wine that's built for the cellar. Broader, more textural and more muscular than the 2008 Cristal, with seemingly even greater reserves of structuring dry extract, the 2012 is incisive and searingly chalky. This is the first Cristal produced exclusively from organically farmed fruit, and it marks the opening of a new chapter for Louis Roderer. The blend is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, vinified without malolactic fermentation and disgorged with 7.5 grams per liter dosage. Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lecaillon has once again excelled himself. |
|
| Roses de Jeanne (Cedric Bouchard) |
2008 |
Boloree Blanc de Blancs Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,325.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Salon |
2015 |
Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,224.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| | Chile |
| Vina Almaviva |
2017 |
Almaviva (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,277.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Almaviva (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$462.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| | Germany |
| Egon Muller |
2007 |
Scharzhofberger Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,243.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Italy |
| Fratelli Alessandria |
2015 |
Barolo Monvigliero (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$505.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Produttori del Barbaresco |
2016 |
Barbaresco Ovello Riserva (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$608.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Barbaresco (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$299.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2023): The 2020 Barbaresco boasts an ample set of aromas with wild cherry, blue flower, sweet spice and crushed limestone. As always, the wine paints an exciting and authentic portrait of Nebbiolo, albeit with a little more richness and texture in this vintage. This is especially true in terms of the palate, where the wine offers mid-weight intensity with melting tannins. This ambitious release of 300,000 bottles is slated to hit the market in fall 2023.
JD 93-94 (5/2023): Just off the bottling line, I was the first in the world to taste the 2020 Barbaresco from bottle with Aldo Vacca. It pours a jewel ruby, which Aldo thought was probably pre-bottle shock. A pretty wine with aromas of ripe raspberry (almost liqueur), sweet licorice, and fresh violets, it is medium to full-bodied, with pure, ripe fruit of red cherry, blood orange, dusty earth, and pressed flowers. This is a lovely wine out of the gates, and it will be interesting to see how it settles. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2020 |
Barbaresco (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$294.99 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2023): The 2020 Barbaresco boasts an ample set of aromas with wild cherry, blue flower, sweet spice and crushed limestone. As always, the wine paints an exciting and authentic portrait of Nebbiolo, albeit with a little more richness and texture in this vintage. This is especially true in terms of the palate, where the wine offers mid-weight intensity with melting tannins. This ambitious release of 300,000 bottles is slated to hit the market in fall 2023.
JD 93-94 (5/2023): Just off the bottling line, I was the first in the world to taste the 2020 Barbaresco from bottle with Aldo Vacca. It pours a jewel ruby, which Aldo thought was probably pre-bottle shock. A pretty wine with aromas of ripe raspberry (almost liqueur), sweet licorice, and fresh violets, it is medium to full-bodied, with pure, ripe fruit of red cherry, blood orange, dusty earth, and pressed flowers. This is a lovely wine out of the gates, and it will be interesting to see how it settles. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2021 |
Barbaresco (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$319.99 |
13 |
|
| |
JD 94 (5/2025): The 2021 Barbaresco offers more complexity and sports a bit deeper shade of red than the 2021. Layered with aromas of kirsch, darker spice, cardamom, candied flowers, and orange peel, the palate is more structured and compact, with savory notes of salty earth, angular, ripe tannins, and its more citrus-noted acidity shining on the palate. It has more nervous energy and needs more time. Give it another couple years and drink 2027-2046. Adurey Frick.
VM 93 (10/2024): The 2021 Barbaresco is a gorgeous, deep wine. Although the aromatics are a bit closed, the 2021 shows gorgeous depth and a touch more palate presence than is typically the case for this bottling. Dark and enveloping, the 2021 will offer a number of years of very fine drinking. It is an impressive, classy wine from Produttori del Barbaresco. Drink between 2024-2033. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Bertani |
2015 |
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$334.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Brovia |
2011 |
Barolo Garblet Sue (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$557.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Giacomo Conterno |
2010 |
Barolo Monfortino Riserva (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,571.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (6/2017): The 2010 Barolo Riserva Monfortino is a perfect wine and there are few things I am more sure of in this life. This is an extraordinary creation that bursts from the glass with a level of distinct intensity and elegance that is nothing short of breathtaking. The wine literally evokes an emotional and deeply visceral reaction thanks to the lasting impression it makes on your heart, mind and gut. This Barolo opens to a delicate garnet color that is brightened with crystalline luminosity. The bouquet offers an immediate curtain-raiser with chiseled aromas of wild berry, licorice, white truffle and tar. That explosive start is followed by a mounting crescendo of complexity and nuance. The wine is extremely silky and polished in terms of mouthfeel and this helps to underline its impressive persistence. Bravo!
JS 99 (10/2016): This is one of the most balanced, harmonious Monfortinos I’ve ever tasted. Aromas of dried rose petals and oranges. It’s full-bodied yet compacted and tight. Tannins are perfectly managed. All in harmony. This is from one of the latest harvests ever; it started October 29. So fabulous and so perfect now, why wait? But will age for decades.
VM 98-100 (3/2015): It's always great to get a glimpse of Monfortino as it ages in barrel. The 2010 is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. Sweet red cherries, rose petals, smoke, licorice and savory herbs open up in the glass, but it is the wine's statuesque, towering personality that stands out most. Layers of nuance continue to build in a crescendo of aromas, flavors and textures that dazzles. Firm, chalky tannins support the huge finish. Conterno told me the 2010 might get an extra year in barrel to tame the the tannins, so it may be a while before the 2010 sees the light of day. When it does, the 2010 will make an eloquent case for itself among the greatest Monfortinos ever made. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2012 |
Barolo Cerretta (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,338.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Aldo Conterno |
2012 |
Barolo Granbussia Riserva
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$689.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Giacomo Conterno |
2014 |
Barbera d’Alba Cerretta
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$129.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Conti Costanti |
2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$899.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$571.98 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Brunello di Montalcino (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$634.98 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Dal Forno |
2015 |
Valpolicella Superiore Vigneto di Monte Lodoletta (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,005.97 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Angelo Gaja |
2008 |
Barolo Sperss (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,674.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Gaia & Rey Chardonnay |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (9/2021): The 2019 Gaia & Rey may be one of the finest vintages I have ever tasted of this white. Creamy, ample and expressive, the 2019 is a wonderfully, classy, polished wine. All the elements come together so effortlessly here. Bright and focused, the 2019 is fabulous and I say that as someone who is not especially fond of Italian Chardonnays. (Drink between 2022-2029). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Tenuta San Leonardo |
2020 |
Vallagarina (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$260.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Vallagarina (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,353.99 |
20 |
|
| |
|
| Massolino |
2014 |
Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$944.99 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Barolo (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$357.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Silvio Nardi |
2016 |
Brunello di Montalcino (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$428.99 |
30 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$266.99 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2023): The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is dark in color and style, with a bouquet of dried berries and florals complicated by orange zest and a dusting of cocoa. It sweeps across the palate with racy acidity and sleek textures that usher in spicy cherry-berry fruits. The 2019 finishes with a mentholated freshness, edgy tannins and medium length, leaving a slightly bitter tinge to linger. Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino (5.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$401.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2023): The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is dark in color and style, with a bouquet of dried berries and florals complicated by orange zest and a dusting of cocoa. It sweeps across the palate with racy acidity and sleek textures that usher in spicy cherry-berry fruits. The 2019 finishes with a mentholated freshness, edgy tannins and medium length, leaving a slightly bitter tinge to linger. Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$382.99 |
10 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2023): The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is dark in color and style, with a bouquet of dried berries and florals complicated by orange zest and a dusting of cocoa. It sweeps across the palate with racy acidity and sleek textures that usher in spicy cherry-berry fruits. The 2019 finishes with a mentholated freshness, edgy tannins and medium length, leaving a slightly bitter tinge to linger. Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$146.99 |
9 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2023): The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is dark in color and style, with a bouquet of dried berries and florals complicated by orange zest and a dusting of cocoa. It sweeps across the palate with racy acidity and sleek textures that usher in spicy cherry-berry fruits. The 2019 finishes with a mentholated freshness, edgy tannins and medium length, leaving a slightly bitter tinge to linger. Eric Guido. |
|
| Tenuta dell' Ornellaia |
2020 |
Masseto Proprietary Blend
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$907.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Masseto Proprietary Blend (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,606.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Le Serre Nuove (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$364.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Petrolo |
2001 |
Galatrona (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,249.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 93 (10/2003): This beautiful Sangiovese has great subtlety, with complex aromas of flowers, berries, plums and aged cedar. Full-bodied, with superrefined tannins and a long, long finish. This is so refined, almost ethereal. Hard not to drink now. Best after 2006. 4,200 cases made.
WA 89 (4/2004): The 2001 Torrione, a blend of the estate’s best Sangiovese and some Merlot, is a bright ruby/garnet with a fragrant, penetrating red fruit/floral nose. This well structured 2001's continuous flavors need only a bit more concentration to rise into a higher category. Drink: 2005-2012. |
|
| Poggio di Sotto |
2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$647.99 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (11/2024): The Poggio di Sotto 2019 Brunello di Montalcino remains a little closed, even rigid, at the moment. It can be compared to the cool 2013 and 2016 vintages that both required an extra five or six years before they started to shine. However, there's no escaping the power that remains just under the surface. You feel it budding and yearning to break free. Dark fruit aromas fold into crushed stone, grilled rosemary and blue flower. It's fun to taste this wine next to the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva because you really see how much further this vintage will require in the cellar. Both wines remain tight and nervous at this point but are full of potential. Drink between 2030-2055.
JD 98+ (2/2024): I was able to taste the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino three times for this report, and it’s one of the great wines of the vintage. It takes on a bit more muscular style for the Poggio di Sotto estate, but it retains the DNA of the estate at large with its outstanding clarity. It’s medium ruby-colored and reveals notes of pure cherry, anise, wildflowers, wet stone, and tea leaf. Structured and long on the palate, it has ripe, chiseled tannins, a balanced spine of acidity, and notes of salted orange through the finish, with a long-lasting perfume. Its transparency, balanced with its complexity, makes this one of the most intriguing wines, and if stored properly, it will only improve with time in the cellar. Drink 2027-2047. Audrey Frick.
VM 96 (12/2023): Dusty roses, worn leather, dried strawberries and arid earth form a classic bouquet as the dynamic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. This is feminine yet deep and textural, with ripe plums and black cherries motivated by brisk acidity. Violet inner florals and licorice hints form toward the close. The 2019 leaves a salty mineral staining to mingle with fine-grained tannins and spice, as it finishes with incredible length, yet still so fresh. This is incredibly youthful and inward today, but the potential is off the charts. I expect the 2019 to put on some weight and blossom over the next five to ten years. Glorious. Drink between 2027-2042. Eric Guido. |
|
| Castello Dei Rampolla |
2019 |
Vigna d’Alceo (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$862.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 97 (8/2023): Rampolla's 2019 D'Alceo is creamy and resonant in the glass. Inky dark fruit, lavender, blackberry and spice all meld together in a wine that combines power and elegance. Seamless tannins extend the finish effortlessly. In many vintages, D'Alceo is a powerhouse. The 2019 is sublime. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Roagna |
2015 |
Barbaresco Paje (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$918.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Castello Della Sala (Antinori) |
2023 |
Cervaro della Sala Chardonnay Umbria IGT (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$589.98 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| San Giusto A Rentennano |
2021 |
Percarlo (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$321.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Luciano Sandrone |
2013 |
Barolo Aleste (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$943.99 |
9 |
|
| |
JD 98 (3/2018): Compared to the Le Vigne, the 2013 Aleste is slightly deeper and richer. Coming all from the Cannubi Boschis vineyard and aged 18 months in 500-liter French oak, it reveals incredible notes of black currants, blackberries, ground herbs, licorice, and smoked tobacco. Possessing medium to full-bodied richness, a stacked mid-palate, and serious amounts of tannin, it’s an incredible wine, yet certainly not for those seeking instant gratification. Hide bottles for 5-6 years and enjoy over the following 2-3 decades. (Drink between 2018-2048).
VM 97.5 (2/2017): The 2013 Barolo Aleste is a wine of striking purity and nuance. It is also one of the most finessed, vivid young Barolos I have ever tasted from Sandrone. The translucence of Nebbiolo comes through loud and clear. Freshly cut flowers, mint and finely cut fruit are some of the signatures. This wine has developed beautifully in recent vintages as the oak influence is less than it was just a few years ago. Beams of tannin and bright, salivating acidity add finesse to this translucent, exceptional Barolo. Aleste is the new name Sandrone is using for the Barolo formerly known as Cannubi Boschis. Antonio Galloni.
WA 97 (8/2017): Formerly known as Barolo Cannubi Boschis (the last vintage by that name was 2012), the 2013 Barolo Aleste has been renamed to honor the youngest generation of the Sandrone family, Alessia and Stefano. The wine name Aleste takes the first three letters from each grandchild's name. The move represents the culmination of more than 50 harvests completed by this legendary winemaker and his desire to pass on the torch. His grandchildren are at different points in their respective viticulture and enology university studies. Now under a different name, the wine obviously shows the same delicate floral nuances that you get with this wine (fruit from Cannubi is always harvested first). This is a complete and exciting wine with delicate notes of wild berry and smoke backed by licorice and blue flower. |
|
| Paolo Scavino |
2004 |
Barolo Bric del Fiasc (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,827.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (12/2007): The estate's 2004 Barolo Bric del Fiasc is another awesome wine. Initially linear on entry, it explodes on the palate with a compelling array of dark fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, new leather, plums and baking spices. Although Bric del Fiasc is typically a wine that relies on power, the 2004 is notably refined and elegant, with sweet silky tannins that support the fruit from start to finish. Simply put, this is a remarkable wine from Enrico Scavino. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.
WS 95 (6/2008): Dark in color, with gorgeous aromas of blackberry, black licorice and blueberry. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long finish. A bit tight, but pretty and balanced. Very long and cerebral. Best after 2012. 780 cases made.
VM 94+ (12/2007): Good deep red. Superripe aromas and flavors of plum liqueur, redcurrant, mocha and chocolate. Sweet, pliant and downright plush; a hugely concentrated, dense wine that saturates every nook and cranny of the palate. Wonderfully shapely, structured wine that finishes with superb grip and length and a captivating juicy quality. A great vintage for this bottling. |
|
|
2004 |
Barolo Carobric (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,515.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (5/2015): The 2004 Barolo Carobric is in a great place today where it is starting to show the first signs of aromatic complexity, yet it also clearly has plenty of upside for the future. Firm yet nicely integrated tannins give the 2004 much of its energy. Sweet tobacco, plums, underbrush, cherries and melted road tar linger on the multi-faceted finish. Carobric is a blend of fruit from Cannubi, Rocche di Castiglione and Bric del Fiasc. Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (12/2007): Scavino’s 2004 Barolo Carobric comes across as classic in its expression of violets, black cherries, minerals and sweet toasted oak. It too offers gorgeous inner sweetness to its fruit, but it is more focused and less concentrated than the other 2004 Barolos. This is a beautifully proportioned, vibrant Barolo that is sure to find many admirers. Carobric is made from a blend of Rocche di Castiglione, Bric del Fiasc and Cannubi This bottling has often suffered an identity crisis among the single-vineyard wines in the lineup but in recent years its personality has gradually begun to show its potential. The 2004 is a terrific effort. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024.
WS 93 (6/2008): Beautiful floral and blueberry notes, with hints of spice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Very ripe and delicious already. But needs time. Best after 2011. 1,580 cases made. |
|
| Tenuta San Guido |
2014 |
Sassicaia (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,750.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Sassicaia (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$659.99 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (1/2021): This is a classic vintage of an Italian icon now celebrating its 50th vintage. The Tenuta San Guido 2018 Bolgheri Sassicaia lays out a familiar blueprint that borrows from the proven track record of this landmark estate that extends into the hills just beyond the Tyrrhenian shores of Tuscany. This vintage is crystalline and pure in its delivery, and if you are familiar with previous editions, it is impossible to mistake this wine for anything but Sassicaia.
VM 97 (2/2021): The 2018 Sassicaia is fabulous. Bright and beautifully poised, the 2018 opens with brilliant aromatics that make a strong first impression. Delicate and light on its feet, the 2018 is a regal wine that is going to need a number of years to come into its own. Sassicaia is the most finessed of Bolgheri’s top wines. That is very much the case in 2018 as well. I loved it. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Tenuta di Trinoro |
2022 |
Le Cupole Rosso (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$362.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| G.D. Vajra |
2015 |
Barolo Bricco dell Viole (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$617.96 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (2/2019): The flagship Barolo Bricco delle Viole is quite understated and gracious in 2015. Medium in body, with the persistent tannins that are so typical of this site, the 2015 is lithe, focused and full of energy. The warm vintage notwithstanding, in 2015, Vajra's Bricco delle Viole is distinctly sinewy and tense. It will offer considerable appeal to readers who find some of the other 2015 Barolos too open and giving in their youthful stage. Kirsch, rose petal, mint and chalky notes build into a finely cut finish. Time in the glass softens some of the youthful, austere contours, but this remains a 2015 Barolo that needs time in bottle to be at its very best. Antonio Galloni.
WA 94+ (6/2019): The 2015 Barolo Bricco Delle Viole is a delicate and pure expression of Nebbiolo. The wine shows its naked beauty with pride, provocatively semi-dressed in lacy, floral aromas of wild rose and pressed violets. At this young age, the wine exhibits a gentle mix of fruity and floral characteristics that merge into the bouquet with intrepidness. The fruit from this vineyard within the Barolo township has maintained its freshness and crispness despite the heat of the 2015 growing season. I think it would be a lovely match for a veal piccata and cream sauce, with parsley and capers. |
|
| Vietti |
2020 |
Barolo Rocche di Castiglione (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$486.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Roberto Voerzio |
2016 |
Barolo Brunate (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,347.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| | Loire |
| Dom. Francois Cotat |
2023 |
Sancerre Cul de Beaujeu (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$556.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Guiberteau |
2017 |
Saumur Les Arboises Rouge (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$516.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Saumur Les Arboises Rouge (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$533.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (6/2024): The 2019 Les Arboises is crafted from vines that experienced significant frost, impacting 60% of its yield, followed by an intensely hot summer. Evoking aromas of spices, flowers, dark wild berries and animal hints, it’s medium to full-bodied, deep and broad in the context of the vintage, with structuring tannins and a somewhat firm, austere finish. |
|
| Dom. Huet |
2020 |
Vouvray Le Haut Lieu Moelleux 1er Trie (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$940.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| | New Zealand |
| Kumeu River |
2016 |
Mates Vyd. Chardonnay (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,010.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2016 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage a Jacques Perrin (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$971.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (8/2018): The flagship is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin, 75% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah, 10% Grenache, and the rest Counoise, brought up all in foudre. Blueberries, Peking duck, new saddle leather, black cherries, scorched earth, and an incredible sense of minerality all flow to a massive, concentrated, pure, perfectly balanced 2016 that is a prime example of the old saying, “an iron fist in a velvet glove.” It's a heavenly, perfect wine that's going to live for 30-50 years.
WA 99+ (8/2018): Tasted three weeks after bottling, I couldn't quite bring myself to give the elusive three-digit score to this admittedly super wine. Perhaps once the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage à Jacques Perrin has been in bottle a bit longer, as Mourvèdre seems to go into a bit of a funk when recently bottled. For now, it's merely profound, packing in savory, mossy nuances, hints of exotic dried spices like star anise and cardamom and layers of rich, plummy fruit that manage to be full-bodied and deliciously intense without being weighty or overwrought. Creamy, lush, intense and long, it's a tdf (tour de force) in CdP.
JLL ****** (10/2017): Immense, inky robe, black with a peep of purple on the top. The bouquet assembles mixed dried herbes de Provence with cool, smoky black fruits that have great definition, really precise lines. There is an oily note to it, a hand out of bounty. The palate is suave and rolling, bears “glistening” fruit with a silken feel, has a thread of freshness through it, a note of carbonic gas for the moment. The black fruits, black olive flavours are serene, and it runs with the most winning continuity, never a false stroke, and the finish is rounded, calm. This bears the unctuous fruit of the old vines, and is a major French red wine. It would be a real treat for a godchild birth year in magnum or jereoboam form. It has primo balance. It is showing well now, but will close. From 2023.
JS 99 (8/2018): This is a stunning Beaucastel. A classic! Has a superb array of fruit, ranging from red, through to blue, darker purple and black. Nuances of dark, stony minerals, spices, wild flowers and herbs. So fleshy. This has impeccable balance, super-silky tannins and an extraordinarily long finish. This has decades ahead of it. Drink or hold. |
|
| Dom. Henri Bonneau |
2019 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Celestins (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,904.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Le Clos du Caillou |
2018 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$814.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Jean-Louis Chave |
2019 |
Hermitage
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$492.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97-99 (2/2022): A potential candidate for the wine of the vintage, the 2019 Hermitage is a massive, full-bodied, yet mineral-laced and undeniably classic wine from this estate. All of the components showed incredibly well, with the Le Méal offering classic sexiness, the Hermite being straight and focused, and the Bessards just as good as any Syrah out there. It shows the ripeness of the vintage, yet the purity of fruit is incredible. It’s another magical wine in an incredible series of awesome Hermitage from this family. |
|
| Domaine de Cristia |
2016 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$516.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Yves Gangloff |
2022 |
Cote Rotie La Barbarine (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$677.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Cote Rotie La Sereine Noire (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,077.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Xavier Gerard |
2020 |
Cote Rotie Lan Landonne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$648.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Jean Michel Gerin |
2014 |
Cote Rotie La Landonne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$634.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Etienne Guigal |
2015 |
Cote Rotie La Landonne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,607.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Cote Rotie La Mouline (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,837.99 |
5 |
|
| |
JS 99 (7/2019): A very complex and complete nose with everything so integrated and beautifully judged. There are ripe blackberries, blood plums, fragrant spices, dark stones and roasted coffee, to name just some of what is already on offer here. The palate has such richness and such build and layering with ripe dark plums and blackberries, clothed in robes of spice-laden, velvety tannins in a majestic mode. Pure class and a great vintage for sure. One of the best ever. Best from 2025.
JD 98+ (12/2019): The 2015 Côte Rôtie La Mouline has closed down substantially since I tasted it from barrel, yet it’s nevertheless a magical wine in the making. Sporting a deep, saturated purple color as well as a monster bouquet of crème de cassis, graphite, crushed rocks, and hints of flowers, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, building tannins, and a focused, tight, backward vibe that’s going to need 4-5 years of bottle age. It’s going to be incredibly long-lived.
WS 98 (11/2019): This is packed with notes of red and black currant preserves, raspberry pâte de fruit and plum reduction at the core. A long way from opening, as the fruit is encased in layers of singed alder, warm earth and smoldering tobacco. A singed iron spine girds the finish. Should offer a gorgeous display of fruit when this develops fully. Best from 2025 through 2045. 88 cases imported.
VM 98 (9/2019): Opaque, bright-rimmed ruby. Expansive, mineral-tinged aromas of ripe red and blue fruits, incense, bacon fat, olive, mocha and pungent flowers are accented by an exotic Moroccan spice nuance. Sappy and deeply concentrated and energetic on the palate, offering vibrant boysenberry, black raspberry, olive paste, smoked meat, five-spice powder and violet pastille flavors that are underscored by a vein of minerality. Supple, gently gripping tannins build steadily a floral- and mineral-driven finish that hangs on with resonating spiciness and superb tenacity. Josh Raynolds.
WA 98 (12/2019): The 2015 Cote Rotie La Mouline contains the most Viognier of any of Guigal's La Las: 11%. That tends to make it more open and approachable when young, but the 2015 seemed closed at the time of my visit. Cedar and vanilla frame mixed berries in a full-bodied, plush wine that somehow never seems heavy. It shows great elegance and length, and I'm confident the complexity it showed at earlier tastings will reemerge with a few years in the bottle. |
|
|
2015 |
Cote Rotie La Turque (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,192.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Patrick Jasmin |
2015 |
Cote Rotie (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$671.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JLL ****[*] (7/2017): With the first year of the 52 hl tronconic oak vat, this was aged in that vat for 12 months, then transferred into the oak casks for a further 12 months; 40% of the casks were new, exceptionally, this year: dark red. The broad, well-filled bouquet is led by raspberry, which comes across intensely, has a little floral, geranium with it. The palate is sturdy, holds well-packed red fruits with energy. This is long, persistent, gives a real assertion of fruit. There is a lot stuffing and strength here - it is munchable wine. Granular tannins are scattered across the finish, and there is a couch of content on the close. New oak marks the aftertaste. The pH is 3.55, and the Total Acidity 3.8 - all very good, given the density of the wine, and avoid it being heavy. Fined, unfiltered. “2015 has a belle aromatic complexity, similar to 2010 - it’s not like the very tannic years such as 1995, 2005, 2009,” Patrick Jasmin. From 2021. |
|
| Dom. de la Nalys |
2021 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$414.99 |
8 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Ogier |
2009 |
Cote Rotie Cote Blonde Lancement (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,608.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Cote Rotie Cote Blonde Lancement (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$690.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Cote Rotie La Belle Helene (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,281.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Rene Rostaing |
2012 |
Cote Rotie Cote Blonde (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,041.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (2/2015): Inky ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet displays intense aromas of red fruit liqueur, potpourri, smoky minerals and white pepper; smells like a very serious Burgundy from a ripe year. Palate-staining raspberry and floral pastille flavors are accented by an exotic jolt of blood orange. Gains weight and sweetness with air, finishing with resonating minerality and outstanding persistence. This graceful wine should enjoy a long evolution thanks to its balance. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Ch. des Tours |
2009 |
Vacqueyras (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,499.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Pierre Usseglio |
2021 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Mon Aieul (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$578.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. de la Vieille Julienne |
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hauts-lieux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,005.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Rhone White |
| Jean-Louis Chave |
2019 |
Hermitage Blanc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,737.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (2/2022): Another incredible white from this family is the 2019 Hermitage Blanc, a powerful, concentrated, and remarkably pure Hermitage that has laser-like focus as well as textbook Marsanne notes of quince, green almond, powdered rock, licorice, and spice. It’s still tight, focused, and inward at present, yet it reminds me of the 2018 with its purity and rare mix of power and elegance. It’s worth trying a bottle any time over the coming 3-5 years, but after that, I’d recommend waiting until after 2031. |
|
| | Spain |
| R. Lopez de Heredia |
2001 |
Vina Tondonia Reserva Rioja (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,402.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96+ (7/2022): I had the chance to taste a bottle of the 2001 Viña Tondonia Reserva 10 years after it was released, and the wine has evolved beautifully and quite slowly—at least that is the case for these bottles that have been kept in the winery for all these years. It's austere and elegant, with balance and concentration, polished tannins and a chalky texture, long tasty and dry. This is lively and should continue developing in bottle for quite some time... |
|
| Bodegas & Vinedos Pintia |
2019 |
Pintia Toro (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$534.98 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| Vega Sicilia |
2015 |
Unico Ribera del Duero (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,801.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| | USA Red |
| Abreu |
2015 |
Thorevilos Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$550 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Madrona Ranch Proprietary Blend |
$375 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Aubert |
2021 |
CIX Pinot Noir |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (8/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir CIX Vineyard is fabulous. Rich, deep and explosive, the 2021 possesses striking inner perfume and brilliant fruit. Sweet red cherry, plum, spice and pomegranate build into the heady, sumptuous finish. Goldridge soils over volcanic ash are magical here. What a wine. (Drink between 2024-2033). Antonio Galloni.
WA 95+ (12/2022): The Pinot Noir portions of the CIX Estate vineyard were planted to selections from Calera and Vosne-Romanée in 2008, with the first vintage produced in 2011. There are 500 cases of the 2021 Pinot Noir CIX Estate, made in a surprisingly delicate and leaner style. Raspberry fruit predominates, accented by attractive sous-bois complexity in this bright, spicy effort. Medium-bodied, silky and crisp, it finishes long and softly dusty, with great length. |
|
|
2022 |
UV Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (7/2024): From a vineyard named for Aubert's frequent collaborator, Ulises Valdez, and still farmed by his family, the 2022 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard bursts with cherries and raspberries, plus a hint of pie spice. Full-bodied, warm, supple and spicy on the palate, this is soft and appealing on the long, plush finish.
VM 94 (1/2024): The 2022 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard is such a classy wine. Crushed flowers, mint, bright red-toned fruit and cinnamon are some of the notes that grace this layered, vibrant Pinot. All the elements are so nicely balanced. Floral notes perk up the finish. Clones here are Calera and Vosne-Romanée. (Drink between 2024-2032). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2023 |
Park Avenue Pinot Noir |
$165 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
UV Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$165 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
UV-SL Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$135 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Bella Oaks |
2022 |
Proprietary Red |
$275 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2022 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$265 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Maya Proprietary Blend |
$550 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Futo |
2022 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$450 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Harlan Estate |
2012 |
Proprietary Blend |
$995 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99+ (10/2015): The 2012 Harlan Estate is reminiscent of their 2002. Probably a candidate for perfection with another 4-5 years of bottle age, the wine is inky plum/purple to the rim and offers a gorgeous nose of scorched earth, blackberry and cassis, forest floor, and a floral, lavender-like component followed by deep, opulent, majestic flavors that caress the palate with high but sweet tannin. This is relatively evolved, and supple and voluptuous for a young Harlan estate – hence the comparison with their compelling 2002. This wine can be drunk in several years and is likely another candidate for 30-50 years of cellaring.
JS 98 (7/2015): This shows incredible lavender aromas with Provencal undertones of violets, dark fruits such as blueberry and blackberry, and some walnut. Full body plus ultra fine tannins that build on the finish. It really comes on with a rolling tannin structure. Tightly wound. A muscular and elegant wine with superb tone. A fresh and bright Harlan. This wine has levity, as the winemaker likes to say. Try in 2020.
VM 97 (10/2015): The 2012 Harlan Estate is striking in its beauty. Dark red cherry, plum, spice, mint and new leather are all laced together in a Harlan Estate endowed with a compelling interplay of energy and nuance. This is an especially showy, radiant Harlan Estate that is likely to offer a wide window of pure drinking pleasure. The 2012 is not a big wine, but rather a Harlan Estate built on finesse.
WS 93 (11/2015): Dusty, loamy tannins provide the outline, with a crushed rock—laced mix of dried berry, sage and cedary oak. Still very tight and oaky, but time should resolve that, as this ends elegantly, with spice and firm tannins. To be released spring 2016. Best from 2017 through 2030. 2,748 cases made. |
|
|
2015 |
Proprietary Blend |
$1,295 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (1/2019): The 2015 Harlan Estate is a beast of a wine that shows the sexy, opulent style of the vintage married to the classic structure and depth of this estate. A downright smorgasbord of blackcurrants, blackberries, crushed rocks, graphite, smoky camphor, cured meats, and dried tobacco aromas all emerge from the glass, and it shows the deep, concentrated style of the vintage yet still has awesome complexity and nuances. Deep, powerful, and structured, yet opulent and incredibly sexy on the palate, it reminds me of the 2002. A brilliant wine from this estate, it's already approachable given its wealth of fruit yet has the tannic backbone and density to keep for 3-4 decades or more.
WA 100 (10/2018): Bottled in early 2018, the deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Harlan Estate is a little closed, slowly unfurling to reveal black cherries, crème de cassis and plum pudding with nuances of potpourri, baking spices and tilled soil plus wafts of garrigue and wild sage. The palate is full-bodied and concentrated with exquisitely ripe, fine-grained tannins and fantastic poise and depth with a long, decadently fruited finish.
WS 97 (10/2019): A huge red, with powerfully rendered dark fig, macerated black currant and steeped boysenberry fruit framed by a bittersweet chocolate note. With time in the glass, the fruit unwinds slowly, allowing anise and loam accents to fill in on the fleshy finish. There's some serious heft here through the back end too, with a long echo of smoldering tobacco and a great tug of dark earth. Best from 2022 through 2040. 1,839 cases made.
VM 97 (12/2018): The 2015 Harlan Estate has developed into an arrestingly beautiful wine. Racy and sumptuous, the 2015 is already quite showy, with tons of dark cherry, plum, mocha, espresso, licorice, spice and tobacco character. Today, the 2015 comes across as a bit brooding and hard to read, although some of the rougher edges in the tannins I saw last year have softened. Even so, I would prefer to cellar 2015 for at least a few years. There is so much to look forward to. Antonio Galloni.
JS 99 (12/2018): Incredible aromas of fresh flowers, such as roses and violets, and blackcurrants. Full body and defined levels of fruit and tannins too. Love the brightness and texture. An excellent finish. Production was down by a third because of bad berry set. Try in 2021. |
|
| Hundred Acre |
2005 |
Deep Time Cabernet Sauvignon |
$695 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (12/2009): The three vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon Deep Time include the just bottled 2005, which spent four years in an assortment of barrels. It was the best tasting I have had of that wine. These wines have a more chocolate, espresso roast character as well as tons of fruit, and a natural, concentrated character. They are very thick and rich, yet the oak seems less noticeable than it does in wines scheduled for earlier bottling. Altogether, this is a remarkable winery with a highly personalized vision that is producing extraordinary wines, and we’re all the better for it.
VM 96 (6/2009): (15.5%; from the exact same blend as the "regular" Kayli Morgan but aged nearly a year longer; this was bottled in December of 2008) Good saturated red-ruby. Superripe, decadent aromas of currant, graphite, mocha and marzipan; there's something here that reminded me of a great old Rioja. Lush and sweet but with superb energy keeping the wine magically fresh. Bigger than the Precious and longer and brighter on the finish. This has a three-dimensional texture. Owner Woodbridge told me this late-bottled wine is his attempt to see what his Kayli Morgan cabernet will taste like after 20 years in the bottle. |
|
|
2005 |
Precious Cabernet Sauvignon |
$575 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96-100 (12/2007): Made from his vineyards and harvested grape by grape rather than bunch by bunch, the 2005 Precious borders on perfection. A wine of great depth, symmetry, layered complexity, and opulence, the wine boasts stunning concentration, richness, and length. It is similar to the 2005 Kayli Morgan.
VM 94 (6/2009): (15.5% alcohol; this was made from press wine from Kayli Morgan vineyard, bottled after a full three years in barrel) Good deep red. Deeper, oakier aromas of musky redcurrant, licorice and graphite. Bigger and even lusher than the regular 2005 Kayli Morgan, but with a more exotic character and less energy. Somehow, this mellow, polished wine avoids coming off as heavy. Finishes with fairly serious tannins and suggestions of dried fruits. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2021 |
The Ark Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$625 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Few and Far Between Cabernet Sauvignon |
$575 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Wraith Cabernet Sauvignon |
$650 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Kinsman Eades |
2021 |
Aphex Ecotone Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$390 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Aphex Ecotone Vineyard is a potent, dense wine. Dried herbs, spice, tobacco and earthy notes lend tons of savory nuance. This wild, structured Cabernet is going to need a number of years to come together. It shows tons of energy and depth, even if all the elements aren't totally in harmony at this stage. Nigel Kinsman has done a tremendous job in taming tannins that can be quite fierce at this site. Time in the glass is especially beneficial here. (Drink between 2027-2041). Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (7/2024): A co-ferment of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc from Ecotone Vineyard, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Aphex is dark and plummy, combining black cherries and some earthy notes with a hint of dark chocolate. It's full-bodied, concentrated and rich yet harmonious, with a degree of elegance, no excess weight on the palate and a lingering, softy tannic finish. |
|
| Peter Michael Winery |
2022 |
Clos Du Ciel Pinot Noir |
$279 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Ma Danseuse Pinot Noir |
$145 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Ma Danseuse Pinot Noir |
$145 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2022 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 16 Syrah |
$295 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Numero Otio Touriga Nacional |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2022 |
The Absurd Proprietary Blend |
$700 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Hartwell XX Proprietary Blend |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$365 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Schrader |
2022 |
Heritage Clone To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$295 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
MB To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$295 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Shafer Vineyards |
2021 |
Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon |
$295 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2021 |
Distenta III Syrah |
$225 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 98 (8/2024): The 2021 Syrah Distenta III is another magnificent offering in this great vintage. A wine of penetrating depth and vibrancy, the 2021 explodes onto the palate with copious dark fruit, new leather, licorice and spice. It possesses statuesque energy and pedigree to burn. The Distenta III is one of my favorite recent SQN wines. The blend is 81.7% Syrah, 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvèdre, 2.1% Petite Sirah and 1.6% Muscat and Petit Manseng. Antonio Galloni.
WA 95+ (8/2024): Just over half of the 2021 Syrah Distenta III was sourced from The Third Twin Vineyard, with roughly equal parts Cumulus and Eleven Confessions making up the balance. It includes 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvèdre, 2.1% Petite Sirah and small portions of Muscat and Petit Manseng. The nose is meaty and savory, showing aromas of cured meats, pepperoncini and barbecue smoke aromas melded with rich, creamy, toasty new oak aromas. The palate is extraordinarily extracted and powerful, filled to the brim with sumptuously sweet concentration, which cascades into the decadent, staining finish. Despite the immense power and flashiness here, it leaves something to be discovered, continuously unfurling in the glass while remaining generally balanced. Integrating its alcohol more effortlessly than its Grenache-based counterparts, this is a highlight of the Sine Qua Non lineup. |
|
|
2022 |
Distenta IV Grenache |
$210 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 97 (8/2024): The 2022 Grenache Distenta IV is dense and full-bodied to the core. Rich, creamy and expansive, the 2022 is quite showy today, but all the elements are so well balanced. Bright red/purplish fruit, blood orange, spice, lavender and mocha are all amplified to the maximum. The inclusion of 43% whole clusters adds complexity and nuance without overpowering the wine. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this positively stellar Grenache from Sine Qua Non. The 2021 is 78% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvèdre, 3% Petite Sirah and 1.7% Muscat and Petit Manseng. (Drink between 2026-2037). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96-98 (8/2024): Moving to the reds from barrels, the 2022 Grenache Distenta IV is another ripe, opulent, sexy wine in the vintage that's going to check in near the top of the scale. Black raspberries, ground pepper, herbes de Provence, and sandalwood are just some of its nuances, and it's full-bodied, rich, concentrated, and velvety textured on the palate. It's a stunner of a wine based on 78% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvedre, and the rest Petite Sirah and white varieties.
WA 94 (8/2024): The 2022 Grenache Distenta IV combines nearly equal portions of Eleven Confessions, The Third Twin and Next of Kyn Vineyards. It contains 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvèdre, 3% Petite Sirah and small amounts of Muscat and Petit Manseng aged for 23 months in 16% new French oak. The nose leads with lavish red-fruited aromas, a pleasant floral lift and touches of crushed stones, dried herbs and bright spices. The palate combines a concentrated core of dense but juicy fruit flavors with deft acidity and a seamless, sophisticated texture. The finish is coiled and latent before unwinding and growing more expansive, detailed and blue-fruited with time in the glass. Once this is released in January 2025, I recommend that fans of this style take advantage of the youthful harmony on display here. |
|
| Tor |
2023 |
Black Magic Red Wine |
$599 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Vineyard 29 |
2019 |
"29 Estate" Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 98 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Estate, 100% Cabernet, shows just how special this site in northern St. Helena planted in 1989 with Grace clone Cabernet is. Copious blackberry jam, espresso, chocolate, licorice and cloves saturate the palate. Readers will find a truly distinctive Cabernet built on aromatic intensity, huge fruit and equally potent tannins. Give it a few years to soften. (Drink between 2025-2039). Antonio Galloni.
WA 97+ (3/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Estate, from the original vineyard on an east-facing slope just north of the town of St. Helena, is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 85% new French oak. It's less opulent and more classically styled than the Aida, with hints of thyme, sage and bay leaf lacing through cassis and blackberries. Full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins—but plenty of them—it's both mouthfilling and mouth-drying, with a long, gently dusty finish. Again, it could use some time in the cellar, and then it will drink well for two decades or more. |
|
| | USA White |
| Aubert |
2022 |
Sugar Shack Chardonnay |
$135 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 96 (7/2024): A small vineyard on the site of the Aubert's residence on the western side of Rutherford, Sugar Shack is the warmest site in the portfolio. Farmed by David Abreu's team with careful attention paid to shade cloth and irrigation, the 2022 Chardonnay Sugar Shack shows remarkable freshness given the site and vintage conditions. Crushed stone, lime and tangerine notes mark the nose, while the wine is medium to full-bodied in the mouth, lush and almost pillowy in texture, then bright and vibrant on the lingering finish.
VM 94 (1/2024): The 2022 Chardonnay Sugar Shack is a powerful wine marked by more of a phenolic textural feel. Dried lemon peel, chamomile, spice and crushed rocks abound. This is an especially savory Chardonnay endowed with real palate presence and tons of class. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2023 |
CIX Chardonnay |
$165 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 96-98 (12/2024): The 2023 Chardonnay CIX Estate , all Montrachet clone in a cool site, is one of the most complete wines in this range. Aromatically intense, textured and silky, the 2023 CIX brings together all the elements that make these Chardonnays so appealing. Lemon oil, hazelnut, dried flowers and lightly honeyed notes all grace this resonant, expansive Chardonnay. The CIX is often one of my favorite Aubert Chardonnays, as it is once again in 2023. (Drink between 2026-2035). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| DuMol |
2021 |
Sonoma Coast Chenin Blanc |
$49 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Hyde Vyd. Chardonnay |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Chloe Chardonnay |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Lorenzo Vyd. Chardonnay |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Ferren Wines |
2021 |
Volpert Vyd. Chardonnay |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96 (1/2024): The 2021 Chardonnay Volpert Vineyard is a classic wine from the Taylor Lane District on the West Sonoma Coast. Bright, chiseled and focused, the 2021 screams with character. Lemon peel, white flowers, white pepper, slate, mint and crushed rocks are all beautifully delineated. This is seriously impressive. Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (10/2024): The 2021 Chardonnay Volpert Vineyard has a soft, detailed perfume of peach, nectarine and lemon verbena with accents of hazelnut cream and crème brûlée. The light-bodied palate is ethereal and precise, offering expressive savory and citrus flavors. It’s balanced by linear acidity and has a long, silky finish. |
|
|
2022 |
Frei Road Chardonnay |
$99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Lancel Creek Vyd. Chardonnay |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Silver Eagle Vyd. Chardonnay |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Zephyr Farms Vyd. Chardonnay |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Kongsgaard |
2020 |
Chardonnay |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (2/2023): The 2020 Chardonnay (Napa Valley) is exquisite. That's all there is to it. Creamy and rich, yet not at all heavy, the Napa Valley Chardonnay is perhaps a bit understated, but also avoids the edginess of so many other wines in this vintage. Orchard fruit, mint, lemon confit and tangerine oil open first. Pretty floral and tropical accents grace the finish in this classy, polished Chardonnay from John and Alex Kongsgaard. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
Chardonnay |
$135 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 Chardonnay (Napa Valley) is stellar. Wonderfully refined and airy, the 2021 impresses with its total harmony. It is especially elegant. Whether that is due to the vintage, a tendency to pick on the earlier side these days, or the combination of sites, the 2021 is magnificent, if a bit less showy than it used to be. Readers should plan on cellaring it for a few years. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2022 |
Chardonnay |
$135 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (12/2024): The 2022 Chardonnay (Napa Valley) is typically a blend of Hyde, Hudson, Arcadia and a few others. In 2022, Hudson was not in the blend. Dried lemon peel, tangerine oil, hazelnut and chamomile unfurl in the glass. The drought conditions of the year produced a wine of considerable intensity. Its weight and viscous intensity make it a sort of mini-Judge. The 2022 is very dense and phenolic. (Drink between 2025-2037). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2023 |
Chardonnay |
$135 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Peter Michael Winery |
2023 |
L’Apres Midi Sauvignon Blanc |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (3/2025): Grapes for the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc L’Après-Midi were picked from September 21 through November 2—an especially long harvest window. “It was a special year because everything was pushed back,” Winemaker Robert Fiore says, noting that the cooler season resulted in very lively wines. Blended with 4% Sémillon, the 2023 L’Après-Midi is open and inviting. Pineapple, peach and guava are accented by tones of beeswax, dried tarragon and candle smoke on the nose. The palate is bursting with concentrated, tropical, spicy flavors. Its vibrant acidity provides the perfect foil, lending the wine a shimmery feel, and it has a long, perfumed finish. |
|
|
2023 |
Mon Plaisir Chardonnay |
$119 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Point Rouge Chardonnay |
$400 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2024 |
L’Apres Midi Sauvignon Blanc |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Morlet Family Vineyards |
2022 |
Coup de Coeur Chardonnay |
$149 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2024): Morlet's 2022 Chardonnay Coup de Coeur—a barrel selection of just 245 cases—features enticing fruit scents of white peach and pineapple on the nose. In the mouth, it's full-bodied and plump but balanced, fresh and almost zesty on the finish—a compelling illustration of flavor intensity without excess weight. The step up in quality seems more pronounced in this vintage than in 2021.
JD 98 (6/2024): Pouring a clear medium yellow hue, the 2022 Chardonnay Coup De Coeur is a selection of the finest barrels and is exclusively made from old Wente vines. On the nose, it boasts a layered and spiced profile, with white pepper, lime blossom, white peach, and melon. The palate is luxurious and supple, with a medium to full-bodied frame that has a fantastic, silky texture and a long, outstanding finish with lasting notes of almond and citrus pith. Drink 2026-2036. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2022 |
Les Petits Morlet Sauvignon Blanc |
$95 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Coup de Coeur Chardonnay |
$149 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (7/2025): A slightly deeper bright yellow hue, the 2023 Chardonnay Coup De Coeur is a selection of the best barrels and is entirely made from Old Wente selection. It’s focused on the nose with notes of lime oils, delicate flinty crushed stones, tarragon, green apples, and a fresh savory feel, with its delicate backing spice and oak spice framing the wine gently. It’s full-bodied and feels focused and linear in this vintage, with vibrant acidity weaving through the wine. It has a supple texture and a long, expressive feel, with mouthwatering, fantastic length through the finish. A step up, this incredible and complete wine floats away slowly, with a stony texture tying things together. Drink 2026-2038. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2023 |
Ma Douce Chardonnay |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (7/2025): The 2023 Chardonnay Ma Douce comes from a site in the Fort Ross-Seaview appellation on Goldridge soils, closer to the ocean and above the fog line. Unfiltered, it has a youthful and slightly hazy bright yellow color and is lifted with fresh flint, salted pineapples, preserved citrus, and fresh honeysuckle. The palate is full and elegant, with refreshing, ripe acidity. While it has decadence, it’s light on its feel and, especially in this vintage, has a floating feel with notes of pure vanilla bean that last on the finish. Drink 2025-2035. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2023 |
Ma Princesse Chardonnay |
$110 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (7/2025): Named after Claire, Luc’s daughter, who has now become a part of the winery as of this year, the 2023 Chardonnay Ma Princesse also has a hazy bright yellow hue and comes from the Ritchie Vineyard in the Russian River Valley. Made entirely from old Wente clone, it’s a pure white with a darker hint of delicate reduction, a smoky, stony feel, and notes of ripe apples, melon, orange blosssom, and sherbet. It’s long on the palate, with a full-bodied feel, and has a deeper, mouthwatering mineral persistence. It has the stylistic decadence you come to expect from Morlet, but it has a long mineral feel. Drink 2026-2038. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2023 |
Les Petits Morlet Sauvignon Blanc |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Vineyard 29 |
2022 |
Sauvignon Blanc |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
|