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Inventory updated: Mon, Mar 30, 2026 04:00 PM cst
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Australia |
| Grosset |
2019 |
Polish Hill Riesling (12x750ML) 
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$700.98 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 93 (2/2020): The 2019 Polish Hill Riesling boasts hints of baby powder and lime alongside green apple and mint on the nose. It's medium-bodied, with a pristine, almost watery feel on the palate, but it simultaneously delivers fascinating intensity of flavor and tremendous length, with a gentle, softly dusty texture on the finish. It should easily cellar for more than a decade.
VM 93 (9/2022): Limpid straw-yellow. High-pitched citrus zest and floral aromas and a chalky mineral topnote. Vibrant and sharply delineated on the palate, offering juicy, mineral-laced grapefruit, green apple and honeysuckle flavors that deepen and spread out steadily with air. Shows powerful mineral character on the incisive, impressively long finish, which leaves intense citrus fruit and floral notes behind. (Drink between 2026-2036). Josh Raynolds. |
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|
2020 |
Polish Hill Riesling (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$700.98 |
2 |
|
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2021 |
Polish Hill Riesling (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$363.98 |
2 |
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| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Angelus |
2014 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,808.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (3/2018): The 2014 Angelus is now really beginning to blossom. It has an outstanding bouquet with plush but delineated black cherry and cassis fruit, crushed violet and just a hint of pencil lead. There is wonderful focus here. The palate is medium-bodied with tightly knit black fruit, graphite and spice. There is weight and presence, but it is effortlessly counterbalanced by the freshness and acidity, whilst the finish if extraordinarily long. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. Neal Martin. |
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| Ch. Ausone |
2015 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,119.99 |
1 |
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| |
JD 100 (11/2017): An utterly perfect wine from Alain Vauthier, the 2015 Château Ausone offers off the hook notes of crème de cassis, black raspberries, toasted spice and dried flowers, with more floral and mineral characteristics developing with time in the glass. Amazingly deep, full-bodied, pure and ethereally textured, with building density and tannin, it’s one of those wines that need to be tasted to be believed. Unfortunately, the production is minuscule (and expensive). A wine that will make your heart rate jump, give it 4-5 years of cellaring and I suspect it will keep for as long as you’d like to hang on to bottles. It’s a tour de force in wine and the wine of the vintage in 2015.
JS 99 (2/2018): Very intense and aromatic Ausone with rose petals, fresh herbs, dark berries and raspberries. Full body and great intensity and brightness. Purity and focus reminiscent of crushed grapes. Such beauty, greatness and elegance to this wine. Goes on for minutes. Needs four or five years to come completely together but so long and beautiful. Try drinking in 2021.
WA 99 (2/2018): Composed of 50% Cabernet Franc and 50% Merlot aged in French oak barrels, 85% new, for 20 months, the 2015 Ausone features a deep garnet-purple color and comes bounding out of the glass with expressive plum preserves, wild blueberries and cherry pie aromas plus fragrant nuances of roses, licorice, Indian spices, baker’s chocolate, new leather and cedar chest plus a touch of underbrush. Big, rich, opulent and full-bodied in the mouth, it is laden with bold blue and black fruits, superbly supported by very firm, very finely grained tannins and wonderfully seamless freshness, finishing with long-lingering exotic spice hints.
VM 97-100 (4/2016): The 2015 Ausone is the embodiment of class. A seamless, mind-blowing wine, the Ausone boasts extraordinary purity and finesse. The flavors are deep and unctuous throughout, and yet the wine is remarkably vivid. A host of sweet floral notes and exotic spices are fused into the eternal finish. In 2015, Ausone is as good as it gets. Readers who can find the 2015 should not hesitate, as it is truly magnificent. All I can tell readers is that it took the most extraordinary discipline to spit this wine during my tasting. It is every bit that profound. The 2015 is 50% Cabernet Franc and 50% Merlot that will spend 20 months in French oak, 85% new. The Merlot was brought in between September 29 and October 2, while the Franc came in between October 8 and 10. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Ch. Beau-Sejour Becot |
2022 |
St. Emilion (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$686.98 |
1 |
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| |
VM 100 (1/2025): The 2022 Beau-Séjour Bécot is a total stunner. What a wine! The 2022 was magnificent en primeur, and it is all that from bottle. The aromatics alone are mesmerizing. Crushed rose petal, mint, blood orange, new leather and cedar meld into a core of pliant red-toned fruit. More than anything else, I am so impressed with the wine's precision and finesse. I have never tasted a Beau-Séjour Bécot like this. Antonio Galloni.
JD 98 (2/2025): Tasted on multiple occasions, the 2022 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is flat-out sensational, as well as the finest wine I’ve tasted from this château. Powerful aromatics of red, blue, and black fruits as well as crushed stone and violets define the aromatics, and it’s full-bodied, incredibly concentrated, has integrated acidity, and ultra-fine tannins. Based on 76% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, this heavenly Saint-Emilion will benefit from just 3-5 years of bottle age and have 30 years or more of overall longevity. Back up the truck.
WA 97 (3/2025): The 2022 Beau-Séjour Bécot has turned out brilliantly in bottle. Wafting from the glass with a complex bouquet of sweet wild berries mingled with rose petals, orange zest, violets, gentian and espresso roast, it's full-bodied, supple and suave, with a deep core of cool, layered fruit, beautifully vibrant flavors and polished structuring tannins, concluding with a saline finish. As I wrote when I tasted it from barrel, this is a Saint-Émilion of breathtaking perfume and harmony that will be worth a special effort to seek out.
JA 96 (4/2023): This has double the amount of Cabernet Franc in the blend as of this year after vineyard restructuring, and the chalkiness of the limestone helps underline the curling peony and violet floral character on the opening beats, balancing the intensity of the vintage. Plenty of blueberry and damson fruit, with bitter cocoa bean and coffee, saffran and smoked dried herbs. Highly successful. No irrigation, instead used cover crops, and reduced the height of the canopy by 15cm to limit the transevaporation. Cold maceration for 10-15 days, 55% new oak, 30% oak casks, and amphoras. Jean de Cournuaud technical director. 33hl/h yield after frost impact, harvest September 5 to 23. The new cellar will be ready for the end of August for the 2023 vintage. |
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| Ch. Beychevelle |
2013 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,651.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Ch. Brane-Cantenac |
2014 |
Margaux (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$404.98 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 92 (3/2017): The 2014 Brane-Cantenac has a very classy bouquet, very well defined with blackberry, cedar and tobacco scents, that trademark graphite scent emerging with a few swirls of the glass. It is exactly what you expect from this Margaux estate. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, well-judged acidity, graphite and cedar towards the linear finish that will clearly need several years to unfold. Classic Margaux really, but wise owls will cellar it away for several years. |
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2016 |
Margaux (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$553.98 |
1 |
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| |
JA 99 (9/2025): Rich, deep, powerful, still just at the start of its life. This is a stunning wine, the standout in the vertical. Luscious black fruits, with a careful climb of freshness and acidity through the palate, carefully placed and so delicious, waves of subtle cumin, cocoa and liquorice spice, cassis, cedar, mint leaf, smoked tea, oyster shell, slate tannins. Can easily hold for another few decades, but honestly it is tasting so good right now, you might want to at least open one bottle so you can begin to follow its progress. Harvest September 22 to October 17, 52.5hl/h yield, 70% new oak barrels. Eric Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner, Christophe Capdeville technical director.
VM 95 (9/2025): The 2016 Brane-Cantenac has a wonderful bouquet. Pure blackberry, cedar and graphite scents blossom in the glass with exquisite delineation and harmony. The palate is medium-bodied with sculpted tannins and a sense of symmetry that the estate had not seen before. Very focused and mineral-driven towards the finish, this was quite simply the best Brane-Cantenac that Henri Lurton had overseen to date. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025. (Drink between 2026-2050). Neal Martin.
JD 95 (11/2019): I missed this wine in my recent 2016 Bordeaux report, but I was able to purchase a bottle locally. A tremendous Margaux, the 2016 offers the quintessential elegance of the appellation as well as plenty of density, concentration, and ripe tannins. Beautiful notes of blackcurrants, tobacco leaf, cedarwood, and flowery incense all emerge from the glass, and it builds nicely with air, offering medium to full body, flawless balance, and a great finish. This is classic Margaux as well as a classic 2016. It’s already approachable, and I doubt it will close down, yet it’s going to develop additional nuances with another 4-6 years of bottle age and have 25-30 years of prime drinking. |
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|
2016 |
Margaux (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,126.98 |
1 |
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| |
JA 99 (9/2025): Rich, deep, powerful, still just at the start of its life. This is a stunning wine, the standout in the vertical. Luscious black fruits, with a careful climb of freshness and acidity through the palate, carefully placed and so delicious, waves of subtle cumin, cocoa and liquorice spice, cassis, cedar, mint leaf, smoked tea, oyster shell, slate tannins. Can easily hold for another few decades, but honestly it is tasting so good right now, you might want to at least open one bottle so you can begin to follow its progress. Harvest September 22 to October 17, 52.5hl/h yield, 70% new oak barrels. Eric Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner, Christophe Capdeville technical director.
VM 95 (9/2025): The 2016 Brane-Cantenac has a wonderful bouquet. Pure blackberry, cedar and graphite scents blossom in the glass with exquisite delineation and harmony. The palate is medium-bodied with sculpted tannins and a sense of symmetry that the estate had not seen before. Very focused and mineral-driven towards the finish, this was quite simply the best Brane-Cantenac that Henri Lurton had overseen to date. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025. (Drink between 2026-2050). Neal Martin.
JD 95 (11/2019): I missed this wine in my recent 2016 Bordeaux report, but I was able to purchase a bottle locally. A tremendous Margaux, the 2016 offers the quintessential elegance of the appellation as well as plenty of density, concentration, and ripe tannins. Beautiful notes of blackcurrants, tobacco leaf, cedarwood, and flowery incense all emerge from the glass, and it builds nicely with air, offering medium to full body, flawless balance, and a great finish. This is classic Margaux as well as a classic 2016. It’s already approachable, and I doubt it will close down, yet it’s going to develop additional nuances with another 4-6 years of bottle age and have 25-30 years of prime drinking. |
|
| Le Marquis de Calon-Segur |
2016 |
St. Estephe (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$530.98 |
3 |
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| |
| JS 92-93 (4/2017): Dark berry, tar and stone character. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Balance and intensity. Very pretty density. Pretty fruit. Second wine of Calon. |
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|
2019 |
St. Estephe (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$432.98 |
1 |
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| |
WA 90-92 (6/2020): Deep purple-black colored, the 2019 Le Marquis de Calon-Segur wafts out of the glass with fragrant potpourri, garrigue and Darjeeling tea scents over a core of redcurrant jelly, plum preserves and blackcurrant pastilles plus a touch of cracked black pepper. The full-bodied palate has a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins with loads of freshness supporting the crunchy black fruits, finishing long and savory.
VM 92-94 (6/2020): The 2019 Le Marquis de Calon Segur is a stunning wine. Dark cherry, blackberry jam, plum, gravel, menthol, licorice, inky spice and new leather meld together in a Saint-Estèphe that is rich, unctuous and potent to the core. In the glass, the 2019 is virile and expansive, with tremendous depth, persistence and aromatic breadth. Not a timid wine, the 2019 packs plenty of punch and 15.1% alcohol that is remarkably well-integrated. Antonio Galloni.
JS 92-93 (6/2020): A solid red with a deep, dense center palate and a balance of berry, spice and chocolate character. It’s full and linear at the finish. Better than the 2018. |
|
| Ch. Canon |
2013 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$896.99 |
2 |
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| JS 91-92 (4/2014): A delicate, refined young red with a seductive, fresh character. Medium to full body with lovely subtle tangerine peel and a very fine, silky texture. Bright acidity. Elegant. |
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| Le C de Carmes Haut Brion |
2017 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$323.99 |
1 |
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| JS 90-91 (4/2018): A pretty and clean red with currants and hints of chocolate. Hazelnuts, too. Medium body and a solid center palate. |
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| Domaine de Chevalier |
2005 |
Pessac Leognan (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,379.99 |
1 |
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| |
WA 95 (6/2015): A glorious wine from Domaine de Chevalier, this 2005 reveals notes of graphite, subtle charcoal, blackberry and blackcurrant fruit, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, silky tannins, and a long, multi-dimensional finish. This is a killer effort from the Bernard family, who own this famous terroir in Pessac-Leognan. Drink it over the next 20-30 years.
VM 94+ (4/2013): (a blend of 55% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 6% petit verdot and 4% cabernet franc; 13.3% alcohol): Saturated medium-deep ruby. Rather backward but extremely complex nose hints at cassis, blackberry, graphite, minerals and spices. Sweet, broad and rich, with enticing fresh minerality giving energy to the rather ripe, full-bodied cassis and spice flavors. Finishes perfumed and very long, with wonderfully lush, supple, fine-grained tannins and an almost decadent floral element. This is still a baby and one of the greatest young Domaine de Chevalier rouge wines I have ever tasted. It will outlive most of us: don't touch a bottle before 2018. Ian d'Agata.
JS 94 (5/2012): This is really pure and fruity with flowers and stones. Full and dense, but still a bit tight. Not really giving much at the moment, but beautifully balanced and silky, and opening up to a long, long finish. This is excellent. Pull the cork after 2015. |
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2013 |
Pessac Leognan (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$572.98 |
1 |
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JS 93 (2/2016): This is excellent. Blueberry, black currant and stone aromas and flavors. Medium body, lovely density, fine tannins and a bright finish. A triumph for the vintage. Drink or hold.
VM 91-94 (4/2014): Graphite, smoke, plums and violets meld together in the 2013 Domaine de Chevalier. One of the most impressive wines of the year, the 2013 stands out for its energy, delineation and brilliant textural balance. With a little time in the glass, the 2013 opens up beautifully, showing off its multi-faceted personality. What a gorgeous wine this is. Violets, sage and new leather add the final layers of complexity to what is easily one of the wines of the vintage. The 2013 has been striking the three times I have tasted it. In 2013, the blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni.
WA 90 (10/2016): The 2013 Domaine de Chevalier has a refined bouquet, laid back and languorous with blackberry, briary notes, a touch of bay leaf developing in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp, quite edgy tannin, nicely balanced and fresh with a simple but harmonious finish. It's the kind of 2013 that you'll just enjoy as a fine Claret, leaving you with a smile on your face. This constitutes a very commendable effort in such a challenging vintage, the bottom line being that it is one of the most pleasurable releases in 2013. |
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2014 |
Pessac Leognan (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$736.98 |
4 |
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| JD 94 (11/2017): A blend of 65 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 % Merlot and 5 % Petit Verdot, harvest quite late, the 2014 Domaine de Chevalier is more refined and understated than the 2015 yet still offers more opulence, texture, and mid-palate depth than most in the vintage. Revealing a deep ruby, opaque color and a gorgeous array of blackberries, black cherries, smoked earth, forest floor, and tobacco leaf, this beauty offers full-bodied richness, a layered, silky texture, perfect balance and a great finish. It has the class and balance to offer incredible pleasure today, yet will keep for another two decades. |
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2019 |
Pessac Leognan ex-Negociant |
$79.95 |
9 |
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JD 97 (4/2022): I loved the 2019 Domaine De Chevalier, which is unquestionably up with the crème de la crème of the vintage. A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot that saw just 35% new oak, it sports a dense purple hue as well as a killer, quintessential Graves bouquet of darker black fruits, scorched earth, truffle, cold fireplace, tobacco, and graphite. More medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has brilliant purity, ultra-fine tannins, flawless balance, and a great, great finish. It's not a blockbuster but has this incredible sense of class, balance, and finesse while being rich and concentrated. It's a gorgeous wine, and wine lovers will adore being able to compare this side by side with the 2015, 2016, and 2018 over the coming 3-4 decades. (Drink between 2022-2062)
WA 97 (4/2022): The 2019 Domaine de Chevalier is a magical wine in the making, wafting from the glass with aromas of wild plums, crushed blackcurrants and violets mingled with hints of pencil shavings, subtle spices and coniferous forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, with a vibrant core of fruit, beautifully refined tannins and lively acids, it's exquisitely elegant and harmonious, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. Stylistically, this wine exhibits a much closer affinity with the great Domaine de Chevalier of yesteryear than much of what was produced here in the early 2000s. It's a masterclass in what contemporary Bordeaux can deliver, and worth a special effort to seek out.
VM 97 (2/2023): The 2019 Domaine de Chevalier has a precise and complex bouquet with blackberry, cedar and tobacco scents, quite Médoc-like in style. This is thoroughly engaging. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, exquisitely integrated oak, fleshy and fine-boned with a precise finish. This is outstanding. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. (Drink between 2025-2055). Neal Martin.
JA 95 (10/2021): This is just gorgeous, you see exactly where it is going, with waves of unfussy but powerful black fruit aromatics, a beautiful wine that is full of density and complexity, pared back with restrained cassis and bilberry at this point. Hints of cocoa bean, tobacco, slate, truffle and smoked earth coming through, that will no doubt build over the next few years in bottle. Tasted twice, two months apart, both times hugely successful, easy to recommend. In organic conversion. |
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| Ch. Conseillante |
2012 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,203.97 |
3 |
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WA 96 (4/2015): An absolutely amazing wine from the Nicolas family, this is from another estate in Pomerol that is pushing the envelope to higher and higher quality. The final blend has moved to smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc, now approximately 20%, with the balance 80% Merlot. Through crop-thinning, yields have been reduced to an average of 35 hectoliters per hectare. Inky bluish/purple color and stunning sweet tannins embrace a full-bodied opulent Pomerol with beautiful, floral-infused black raspberry, blueberry and cassis fruit. Full-bodied, yet elegant, this is a brilliant marriage between finesse and power. Stunningly pure, this wine can be drunk young or age magnificently for 20 or more years.
JS 94 (2/2015): Amazing aromas of dried flowers, blueberries and minerals follow through to a full body, fine and polished tannins and a long finish. All in finesse and harmony. Little tight now. Better in 2018.
VM 92 (1/2016): A pretty, open-knit wine, the 2012 La Conseillante is quite expressive today. Dark cherry, plum, smoke, new leather, cedar and cloves flesh out in the glass. Supple, racy and inviting, the 2012 is an attractive, mid-weight Conseillante built on harmony and textural finesse. There is plenty to like, although I would have liked to see a bit more depth through the mid-palate and follow through to the finish. The 2012 is 89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc, which is to say more Merlot and less Franc than is the norm, aged in 70% new oak. Winemaker Jean-Michel Laporte, who has since been replaced by Marielle Cazaux (formerly at Petit-Village) characterized 2012 as a year with high disease pressure and alternating periods of sunshine and rain that made finding the right time to work in the vineyards a challenge. The 2012s came in around 14% alcohol, whereas alcohols were closer to 13.5% in 2014. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Clos l' Eglise |
2016 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$544.99 |
1 |
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| JD 97 (10/2020): I'd put the 2016 Clos L'Eglise up with the top vintages out there, including the 1998, 2000, 2005, and 2009. It has a similar level of purity compared to the 2015 yet offers even more power and concentration. A huge nose of crème de cassis, crushed violets, graphite, lead pencil, violets, and damp earth gives way to a flawlessly balanced, full-bodied 2016 that has sweet tannins, no hard edges, and that rare mix of power and elegance. Do your best to hide a case of this beauty in the cellar. It's guaranteed to put a smile on your face any time over the coming 25-30 years! |
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|
2019 |
Pomerol (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$260.99 |
8 |
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| Ch. Figeac |
2018 |
St. Emilion (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,221.97 |
1 |
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JD 98 (3/2021): Reminiscent of the 2016 with its incredible purity and elegance, the 2018 Château Figeac offers a terrific perfume of crème de cassis, redcurrants, dried earth, tobacco, lead pencil, spring flowers, and exotic spice-driven nuances. Playing in the medium to full-bodied end of the spectrum, it's flawlessly balanced, has silky, polished tannins, and a stunning sense of purity. It doesn't have the sexiness of the 2015, but it's very much in the style of the 2018 vintage with its pure, elegant, haut couture-like style. And it doesn't show a hint of its 100% new oak élevage. Give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 20-30 years. It's not the biggest or richest Saint- Emilion, yet the balance, finesse, and elegance are something to behold. I think it's going to check in behind the 2015 (and maybe the 2019) when all is said and done, but it's unquestionably one of the greatest Figeac in the past 20-30 years. The blend is 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, raised all in new oak. Another big “Bravo” to the talented director, Frédéric Faye!
VM 98 (3/2021): The 2018 Figeac is a regal, aristocratic Saint-Émilion. Vertical in feel, Figeac possesses stunning energy and vibrancy right out of the gate. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, licorice, rose petal and spice all open with a bit of coaxing. Figeac is a bit restrained today, but it won't be an issue in another few years' time. Figeac is not an obvious wine, but it is superb. Antonio Galloni.
JA 97 (3/2022): Love this vibrant, succulent and welcoming Figeac, great reflection of an excellent vintage in St Emilion. Has plenty of juicy damson and raspberry fuits on the opening beats, with gourmet black pepper and smoked caramel, and velvety tannins that wrap themselves around the fruit and carry it right through the palate. Drawn out finish also, with flecks of lemongrass acidity and slate minerality. Well balanced yet succulent, a little atypical perhaps of Figeac in its upfront charms, but hard to disagree with - and the mint leaf finish brings things back into line. Harvest Sptember 17 to October 12, 100% new oak for ageing. |
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| Ch. Gazin |
2010 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,592.99 |
1 |
|
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WA 96 (2/2013): Wow! This wine exceeded my enthusiastic barrel tasting notes. A big, back-strapping blockbuster from Gazin, in which the oak seems to be pushed into the background (thankfully), the wine offers up notes of caramelized black cherry and black currant fruit interwoven with mocha, white chocolate, subtle toast and hints of coffee beans and tobacco leaf. The exceptional aromatics are easily followed up by a full-bodied, powerful, broodingly backward, rich, intense wine with multiple dimensions, layers of fruit, and a sensational finish of close to a minute. This is one of the all-time great efforts from Gazin. It should be forgotten for 6-10 years and drunk over the following 30 to 40.
JS 95 (11/2013): A subtle red with ultra-fine tannins that accentuate a palate of chocolate, berries and nuts. Full and very round. It's refined and beautiful. Hard not to drink now but wait at least five years. Top wine from Gazin. |
|
| Ch. Gloria |
2009 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,119.97 |
10 |
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JS 94 (2/2012): Rich and decadent on the nose, with exotic fruits, spices and incense. Full body, with so much wonderful chocolate, fruit and velvety tannins. It's a joy to taste now, but will give even more pleasure in years to come. Best ever from here and one of the best values of the vintage. Try after 2018.
WA 93 (2/2012): Gloria has long been one of the most popular wines in America, but I do not believe they have ever made better wines than they have over the last decade, and the 2009 is one of their finest. While this estate is not a classified growth, it certainly performs like one in 2009. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by an expressive, flamboyant bouquet of black fruits, Christmas spices, licorice and roasted Provencal herbs. Fuller-bodied, more concentrated and extracted than most vintages with soft tannins, its low acidity and a sumptuous, plump style remind me of a modern day version of the 1982 (which is fully mature but still in great shape). The 2009 Gloria is a very smart purchase for those looking to maximize their buying power. In fact, this may be the value of the vintage.
VM 87-89 (6/2010): (a blend of 61% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot, 6% cabernet franc and 6% petit verdot; 13.6 % alcohol; pH 3.72; 78 IPT; 40% new oak) Bright red. Charming, fruity aromas of strawberry, raspberry and clove. Then surprisingly firm on entry, with stiff tannins providing backbone to the ripe red fruit and herbal flavors. The persistent finish features lingering white pepper and floral notes. This Gloria strikes me as a little less subtle than usual, and rather more Pauillac-like in style. |
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| Ch. Grand Puy Lacoste |
2016 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,230.99 |
2 |
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VM 97 (8/2020): The 2016 Grand Puy-Lacoste has a clean, precise bouquet with nicely detailed blackberry, briar and tobacco aromas, touches of mint emerging with time, all utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, conveying a sense of symmetry throughout and leading into a deft, quite persistent finish. This is very classy, and it should age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting. Neal Martin.
JS 97 (1/2019): A neoclassical edition of Grand-Puy-Lacoste, this has cedar, graphite, deeply integrated cedar and spicy-oak influence and a very fresh array of ripe blackberries, dark cherries and cassis. The palate is so seamless. It builds beautifully and delivers a long, seamless array of perfectly ripe dark fruit, swathed in fine, firm, ascending layers of tannins. As good as we have seen in recent vintages, this is a star of the vintage. Try from 2024.
WA 93+ (11/2018): The deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Grand-Puy-Lacoste gives up pure kirsch and red and black currants with violets and baking spices. Medium-bodied, firm and grainy, it's very expressive with good concentration and length. |
|
| Ch. Haut Bailly |
2001 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$746.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (6/2004): The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2001 Haut-Bailly reveals sweet, pure, elegant aromas of currants, toast, and cigar smoke. With wonderful sweetness, fine tannins, a delicate, nuanced personality, and a long, persistent finish, this well-made, impressive Pessac-Leognan will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 12-14 years.
VM 89 (6/2004): Red-ruby. Nose dominated by nutty oak. Supple, sexy and rather full-blown for a young Haut-Bailly, with expressive flavors of currant, tobacco, licorice and spicy, nutty oak. A fairly dense, lush wine whose tannins are rather pronounced today. Ultimately less long than the 2002, though. Sanders describes this wine as "denser than the '99 and more classic than our 2000." |
|
| Ch. Haut-Brion |
2009 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,637.98 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 100 (2/2012): What a blockbuster effort! Atypically powerful, one day, the 2009 Haut-Brion may be considered to be the 21st century version of the 1959. It is an extraordinarily complex, concentrated effort made from a blend of 46% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Cabernet Franc with the highest alcohol ever achieved at this estate, 14.3%. Even richer than the perfect 1989, with similar technical numbers although slightly higher extract and alcohol, it offers up a sensational perfume of subtle burning embers, unsmoked cigar tobacco, charcoal, black raspberries, wet gravel, plums, figs and blueberries. There is so much going on in the aromatics that one almost hesitates to stop smelling it. However, when it hits the palate, it is hardly a letdown. This unctuously textured, full-bodied 2009 possesses low acidity along with stunning extract and remarkable clarity for a wine with a pH close to 4.0. The good news is that there are 10,500 cases of the 2009, one of the most compelling examples of Haut-Brion ever made. It requires a decade of cellaring and should last a half century or more. Readers who have loved the complexity of Haut-Brion should be prepared for a bigger, richer, more massive wine, but one that does not lose any of its prodigious aromatic attractions.
JS 100 (2/2012): Aromas of forest floor, currants and blueberries, with hints of fresh tobacco and sliced mushrooms. Turns to orange peel and blueberries. Full-bodied, with incredible structure. This is so powerful in tannins, yet so polished. This is the most structured Haut-Brion that I have ever tasted. This has 15% Cabernet Franc, which is more than normal and perhaps giving the wine a little more tannic structure. A monumental Haut-Brion made to age for centuries. I have never tasted a young Haut-Brion, with such spellbinding power and depth. A modern 1945 or 1961 HB? Better than the legendary 1989? Try in 2021.
VM 97+ (7/2012): Vivid deep ruby. Knockout fruity nose offers blackcurrant, strawberry, rosemary, truffle and a stony note. Then very closed in the middle, with cabernet sauvignon-dominated flavors of cassis, cigar box, cedar and minerals. Finishes long and deep, with massive but smooth tannins and a lingering note of violet. This will need plenty of time in the cellar but should be an Outstanding, memorable Haut Brion. Offhand, I do not recall a better pair of wines from any estate in 2009: millionaires will have a lot of fun trying to choose between La Mission and Haut Brion in 20 years' time. |
|
| Ch. d' Issan |
2016 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$424.99 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94+ (2/2019): I loved the 2016 Château d'Issan and this is a certainly a wine to seek out. Made from a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot from yields of 55 hectoliters per hectare, aged 18 months in 50% new oak, it has a beautiful perfume of blue fruits (cassis, blueberries, etc.) as well as hints of graphite, subtle oak, and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, with integrated acidity, a terrific mid-palate, and perfect balance, it needs 4-5 years of bottle age and is going to cruise in good cellars for 20-25 years or more. It’s a beautiful, elegant, seamless wine that’s very much in the style of the vintage.
VM 94 (1/2019): The 2016 d’Issan, matured in 50% new oak and bottled at the end of May, was impressive out of barrel, and thankfully, it is the same in bottle. The very well defined bouquet features blackberry, tobacco, pressed violets and a subtle estuarine tang, almost a marshland scent of salty air. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannin, good focused and just the right amount of salinity. My feeling is that this Margaux will close up for a while, so cellar it for several years if you can. Neal Martin. |
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|
2020 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$394.99 |
1 |
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| |
VM 95 (2/2023): The 2020 d'Issan is a gorgeous, wonderfully complete wine. Blueberry, sage, dried herbs, menthol, lavender and licorice are all beautifully knit together. Medium in body, with notable depth and freshness, Issan is all class. Silky tannins round out the long, vibrant finish. The 2020 d'Issan is the first vintage that incorporates Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec to complement the traditional Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the blend. Antonio Galloni.
JS 97-98 (4/2021): Extremely floral and fruity with currants and blackberries. It’s full-bodied and very layered with delicious, dense character. Full-bodied with dusty, layered tannins. Rich, but not heavy. Long and chewy on the finish. 55% cabernet sauvignon, 39% merlot, 3% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot and 1% malbec.
WA 93-95 (5/2021): The 2020 D'Issan is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec, aging in French oak barriques, 50% new. It has an alcohol of 13.29%, a pH of 3.71 and an IPT (tannin index) of 73. Displaying an opaque purple-black color, it has vibrant notes of Bing cherries, boysenberries, ripe redcurrants and juicy black plums, plus hints of pencil shavings, wild thyme, lavender and forest floor. The medium-bodied palate has impressive energy with crunchy red and black fruits and compelling tension, framed by fine-grained tannins, finishing long and mineral laced.
VM 93-95 (5/2021): The 2020 d'Issan is the first vintage that incorporates Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec to complement the traditional Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the blend. Pretty floral and savory accents complement a core of ripe red/purplish berry fruit. Medium in body and vibrant, with superb persistence, Issan is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. The purity of the flavors is striking. Harvest took place over three weeks between September 17 through October 2, which is only about a week earlier than normal, so not that displaced relative to what was the norm in much of Bordeaux. Tasted three times. Antonio Galloni.
JD 93-95+ (5/2021): More backward, dense, and concentrated, the Grand Vin 2020 Château D'Issan offers darker currant and cassis notes as well as gorgeous floral, sandalwood, graphite, and chocolate nuances. Medium to full-bodied, voluptuous, and layered on the palate, with sweet yet building tannins, this is a gorgeous Margaux that brings ample depth and richness while still showing the classic elegance of the appellation. The blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, raised in 50% new oak, and it’s a selection of only 45% of the total production. It's going to have some up-front appeal and a broad, lengthy drink window over the following 2-3 decades. Tasted twice. |
|
| Ch. Lafite Rothschild |
2021 |
Pauillac (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,452.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Lascombes |
2004 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,197.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2007): Another brilliant effort from this estate, the 2004 Lascombes (a blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot) exhibits a deep blue/purple hue along with a sweet perfume of blueberries, black raspberries, cherries, incense, smoke, and spring flowers. While opulent, underneath the full-bodied richness of fruit and depth is a structured wine. As it sits in the glass, an espresso roast character (no doubt from new oak) also emerges. Enjoy this pure, structured, fleshy beauty between 2010-2025.
VM 91 (6/2007): Good bright ruby. Wild aromas and flavors of blackberry, coffee, mocha, chocolate and game. Sweet, dense and lush but with plenty of acidity giving the wine shape and structure. Quite concentrated for 2004: offers a very broad mouth feel without coming across as heavy. Finishes with horizontal, toothcoating tannins. An impressive showing. |
|
| Ch. Leoville Las Cases |
2016 |
St. Julien (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,509.98 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (2/2019): The 2016 Léoville Las Cases is the finest vintage I’ve ever tasted from this estate; in fact, in this reviewer’s opinion, this magical, perfect wine couldn’t be better. Made from 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc aged 22 months in 90% new oak, it reveals a deep, saturated purple color as well as a thrilling bouquet of crème de cassis, iris flowers, graphite, crushed rocks, and freshly sharpened lead pencils. A perfect example of the old saying “an iron fist in a velvet glove,” it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, layered, stacked mid-palate, flawless integration of its acidity and tannins, and a monster finish. The balance and purity here are off the charts. Hide bottles for a decade or so and enjoy over the following half a century.
JS 100 (1/2019): Very complex and alluringly spicy aromas that bubble in and out of the nose, together with fresh tobacco, raspberries and iodine, moving into blackcurrants, blackberries and a gently gravely, stony edge. The palate has incredible polish that is a foil for the intense power and concentration of this wine. The texture is flawless, building smoothly with fine-grained and focused tannins that sustain a long, fresh finish. The new 1986, which was a legend. This is probably better. A blend of 75 per cent cabernet sauvignon, 14 per cent merlot and 11 per cent cabernet franc. Try from 2024.
VM 98 (8/2020): The 2016 Léoville Las-Cases was tasted from two bottles, this one more in line with prior experiences. It has a very detailed, powerful bouquet of blackberry, cedar, potpourri and iris aromas that soar from the glass. The palate is very well balanced with fine tannins, pitch-perfect acidity and a sense of harmony throughout. It fans out wonderfully on the finish. A 2016 with a sense of completeness and bewitching symmetry. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting. Neal Martin. |
|
| Ch. Lynch Bages |
2010 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,290.98 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 97 (2/2022): Still a saturated ruby-black in hue, the 2010 Lynch-Bages offers up aromas of rich cassis fruit mingled with hints of pencil shavings, loamy soil and cigar wrapper. Full-bodied, deep and muscular, it's rich and layered, with a concentrated core of fruit that's framed by firm, powdery tannins and lively acids. The most brooding, backward Lynch-Bages of the decade and one of the real successes of the vintage, this is a vibrant, tightly wound wine that is still an infant at age 10. Readers with bottles in their cellars might try one now out of curiosity, but this 2010 won't begin to hit its stride until age 20.
VM 95 (4/2020): The 2010 Lynch-Bages has a stunning bouquet with pixelated black fruit, crushed stone and graphite aromas that soar from the glass. This is just amazingly focused. The palate is medium-bodied with concentrated black fruit curiously tinged with cough candy, which here I find just a bit out of place. The acidity is extremely well judged and there is immense persistence on the finish. Bold, brassy and ambitious, this is an extremely impressive wine, although I suspect that there are better bottles out there. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal. Neal Martin.
JS 98 (11/2013): A wine with great beauty and finesse. Such elegance and ethereal quality for this estate. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and a juicy delicious finish. Long and beautiful. This is the best Lynch in a long, long time. I love the precision here. Try in 2018. |
|
| Ch. Margaux |
2009 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,370.98 |
4 |
|
| |
JS 99 (3/2019): This marathon runner is currently in the no-man's land between youthful vitality and mellow maturity. There's a very serious tannin structure here, but it needs a lot longer to fully resolve. Very tight and closed. A perfect wine usually. But not today. Try in 2020.
WA 99 (2/2012): A brilliant offering from the Mentzelopoulos family, once again their gifted manager, Paul Pontallier, has produced an uncommonly concentrated, powerful 2009 Chateau Margaux made from 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest primarily Merlot with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. As with most Medocs, the alcohol here is actually lower (a modest 13.3%) than most of its siblings-. Abundant blueberry, cassis and acacia flower as well as hints of charcoal and forest floor aromas that are almost Burgundian in their complexity are followed by a wine displaying sweet, well-integrated tannins as well as a certain ethereal lightness despite the wine's overall size. Rich, round, generous and unusually approachable for such a young Margaux, this 2009 should drink well for 30-35+ years.
VM 97 (3/2019): The 2009 Château Margaux is blessed with a stunning nose that delivers intense blackberry and cranberry scents, crushed rose petals and touches of slate. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin, taut and quite linear with an effortless and precise finish that is a pure joy. You have the sense of a Château Margaux that is only beginning to show what it can do. Brilliant. Tasted at BI Wines & Spirits' Ten Year On tasting. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2015 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,084.99 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 100 (11/2017): The grand vin is the 2015 Château Margaux and it’s as good a wine as I’ve ever tasted. Coming from just over one-third of the total production and a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot, brought up in 100% new French oak, its deep ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by a thrilling bouquet of crème de cassis, toasted spice, hints of toasty oak, and cedar wood. Incredibly elegant and finesse-driven, yet packed with fruit, depth, richness, and structure, it has as much class as you can fit inside a glass. While the vintage provides plenty of upfront charm, this is a wine to cellar for at least a decade, and enjoy over the following 40+ years.
JS 100-100 (4/2016): The greatest Margaux ever made. More than perfection. Full body, firm and ultra-silky tannins. Black currant, mineral and floral character. It starts slowly and seems almost endless on the palate. Seamless. I want to sing! This is the wine that Margaux never made in some of the classic vintages like 1961, 1959 and 1945. Maybe it's the 1900 all over again? Breathtaking.
WA 98-100 (4/2016): The 2015 Château Margaux is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, all together representing 35% of the total production at the estate. Raised entirely in new oak, it has a lucid garnet color. The bouquet is aimed directly at the senses - there is no dilly-dallying about, as it almost knocks you off your stool with its intense mineralite embroidered into this iridescent, graphite-tinged nose. The focus and penetration here ranks among the finest that I have tasted at this estate since first coming here in 1997. The palate is astonishingly well balanced, perfectly poised with super-fine tannins wrapped around pure blackberry, bilberry, graphite and cedar fruit. Like the Pavillon Rouge this year, there is a Pauillac-like sense of authority and aristocracy, leavened by Margaux-inspired femininity that completes that standout 2015 on the Left Bank. Beg for a bottle and worry about the cost later. Post script: I composed this tasting note five days before the passing of Paul Pontallier. It is a final gift from a gifted winemaker.
VM 95-98 (4/2016): The 2015 Margaux is a super-classic wine. In 2015, most Margauxs are notably intense, but Château Margaux expresses the richness of the year in its surprising tannic backbone and overall structure. Far from an up-front or sensual wine, the 2015 Margaux is likely to require considerable cellaring. It is a tightly-wound wine that manages to be both powerful and crystalline in its translucent purity. The 2015 is a wine of real density and yet so very much Margaux. About 35% of the crop went into the Grand Vin. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| La Dame de Montrose |
2016 |
St. Estephe (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$384.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JS 91-92 (4/2017): A linear and fine rendition of Montrose’s second wine with blueberry and blackberry character. Medium to full body, firm tannins and a juicy finish. Structured. Racy. |
|
| Ch. Montrose |
2019 |
St. Estephe (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,069.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
St. Estephe (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,044.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Olivier |
2012 |
Pessac Leognan (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$480.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Palmer |
2016 |
Margaux (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,895.98 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 100 (2/2019): The finest vintage I’ve ever tasted from this estate, surpassing the 2009 and 2010, the 2016 Château Palmer is a blend of 47% each of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Petit Verdot, all of which was brought up in 65% new French oak. This magical effort reveals a saturated purple color as well as a huge nose of crème de cassis, graphite, crushed rocks, and spring flowers, and it develops beautifully with time in the glass. Full-bodied, deep, incredibly concentrated and powerful, it nevertheless just glides over the palate with flawless purity and balance, present, ripe tannins, and a finish that just won’t quit. This is Bordeaux at its most regal and classic. It will be drinkable with just 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for half a century.
VM 100 (1/2019): Technical Director Thomas Duroux and his team made one of the most brilliant wines of the 2016 vintage. Palmer is simply exceptional. Rich and dramatically sweeping in the glass, the 2016 is breathtaking. All the elements simply fall into place in a wine of mesmerizing beauty. The counterpoint of dark, sumptuous fruit and floral notes makes for an utterly compelling Palmer that will take its place among the estate's finest vintages. Dark cherry, lavender, spice and mocha are some of the many notes that build into a deep, substantial finish that is truly unforgettable. In a word: magnificent! Antonio Galloni.
WA 98+ (11/2018): The 2016 Palmer is a blend of 47% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot. Opaque garnet-purple colored, it slowly glides out of the glass with compelling notes of blueberry compote, warm cassis and kirsch with emerging hints of violets, cigar box, black tea, sandalwood and Sichuan pepper. Medium to full-bodied, wonderfully rich, concentrated and packed with latent energy, the palate literally grows in the mouth, revealing layer upon layer of black, blue and red fruits and tons of floral sparks, framed by super ripe, incredibly fine-grained tannins and finishing with epic length. It’s a wine that makes you wanna drape yourself languidly over a chaise lounge, glass of Palmer in hand, sighing with deep satisfaction, “This is so wonderfully Palmer.”
JS 98 (1/2019): Such attractive fruit and alluring ripeness that it draws you in from the get-go. The discreet power here is delivered with a very astute touch. Assorted dark-berry aromas, as well as red plums, abound on the nose. The richness and depth in the mouth is stunning. The tannins are super polished and layered and they draw pristine dark fruit flavors deep into the finish in effortless mode. This is a star of the vintage. A blend of 47 per cent merlot, 47 per cent cabernet sauvignon and six per cent petit verdot. Try from 2024. |
|
| Ch. Pavie Macquin |
2016 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,080.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| JS 97-98 (4/2017): This is a really fantastic PM! The licorice, fresh mushroom, sous bois and stone character is so exciting. It’s full and very layered with exceptional depth and length. Compressed and focused. Pure silk. |
|
| Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux |
2021 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$923.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. de Pez |
2014 |
St. Estephe (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$341.99 |
48 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Pichon-Longueville Lalande |
2017 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,690.99 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 96 (3/2020): Composed of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, the 2017 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and is a little closed to begin, soon revealing floral notes of lilacs and lavender over a core of black raspberries, warm blackberries and forest floor plus touches of star anise and stewed black tea. Medium-bodied, the palate is a bundle of energy and tension with softly played tannins and beautiful floral and black fruit layers, finishing with a long-lingering whisper.
JD 95 (2/2020): Pure elegance and class, the 2017 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse De Lalande checks in as 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot (representing just 50% of the production) that spent 18 months in 60% new barrels. Nicolas Glumineau has done an incredible job at this estate and this wine is consistently one of the classiest, most elegant wines in just about every vintage. Pure Pauillac notes of creme de cassis, lead pencil, green tobacco, and gravelly earth give way to a medium to full-bodied, soft, supple, flawlessly balanced 2017 that shows the more straight, classic style of the vintage. It needs 4-6 years of bottle age and will evolve gracefully for 25+ years or more. Tasted twice.
VM 94 (3/2020): The 2017 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a dark, powerful, somber Pauillac. Dark fruit, grilled herbs, smoke and licorice add to its distinctly brooding personality. In multiple tastings the 2017 has been incredibly tight and shut down. Readers will have to be especially patient. Estate Director Nicolas Glumineau has overseen a number of showy, majestic wines since he arrived at Pichon Comtesse in 2013. The 2017 appears to be cut from a different cloth, as it is incredibly reticent in the early going. Antonio Galloni.
JS 94 (12/2019): A tight, compact young Bordeaux with medium body, polished and round tannins and a medium finish. Not a big wine, but some very classy currant and raspberry character and just a hint of lead pencil and polished structure. Drink after 2022. |
|
|
2017 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$879.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (3/2020): Composed of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, the 2017 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and is a little closed to begin, soon revealing floral notes of lilacs and lavender over a core of black raspberries, warm blackberries and forest floor plus touches of star anise and stewed black tea. Medium-bodied, the palate is a bundle of energy and tension with softly played tannins and beautiful floral and black fruit layers, finishing with a long-lingering whisper.
JD 95 (2/2020): Pure elegance and class, the 2017 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse De Lalande checks in as 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot (representing just 50% of the production) that spent 18 months in 60% new barrels. Nicolas Glumineau has done an incredible job at this estate and this wine is consistently one of the classiest, most elegant wines in just about every vintage. Pure Pauillac notes of creme de cassis, lead pencil, green tobacco, and gravelly earth give way to a medium to full-bodied, soft, supple, flawlessly balanced 2017 that shows the more straight, classic style of the vintage. It needs 4-6 years of bottle age and will evolve gracefully for 25+ years or more. Tasted twice.
VM 94 (3/2020): The 2017 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a dark, powerful, somber Pauillac. Dark fruit, grilled herbs, smoke and licorice add to its distinctly brooding personality. In multiple tastings the 2017 has been incredibly tight and shut down. Readers will have to be especially patient. Estate Director Nicolas Glumineau has overseen a number of showy, majestic wines since he arrived at Pichon Comtesse in 2013. The 2017 appears to be cut from a different cloth, as it is incredibly reticent in the early going. Antonio Galloni.
JS 94 (12/2019): A tight, compact young Bordeaux with medium body, polished and round tannins and a medium finish. Not a big wine, but some very classy currant and raspberry character and just a hint of lead pencil and polished structure. Drink after 2022. |
|
| Le Pin |
2009 |
Pomerol (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$31,789.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Smith Haut Lafitte |
2012 |
Pessac Leognan (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,376.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95 (1/2016): A dark, sensual wine, the 2012 Smith Haut Lafitte boasts marvelous depth and textural richness. Dark red stone fruits, leather, smoke, tobacco, gravel and herbs are laced together in an expansive wine endowed with terrific purity. The tannins are going to need at least a few years to soften, but there is clearly quite a bit to look forward to.
JS 95 (2/2015): Aromas of cream, cooked apples and pears follow through to a full body with toasted-oak, cream and vanilla character buttressed by plenty of fruit. So much peach and apricot character. This a bright and flamboyant wine for the vintage. One of the best dry whites. Drink or hold. |
|
| Ch. St. Pierre |
2010 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,080.98 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97 (2/2013): The final blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Merlot has resulted in a wine of great power, stature, gravitas and density. The wine has a black purple color and a brilliant nose of scorched earth, creme de cassis, espresso roast, blackberries, truffles and licorice. Full-bodied, extremely powerful, yet with abundant sweet tannin, this stunning effort should prove sensational if given 7-10 years of cellaring. It should also last for 30-40 years.
VM 94 (7/2013): Good bright ruby. Knockout nose combines blackberry, cassis, minerals, espresso and nutty oak. Dense, sweet, plush and deep, with a texture of liquid velvet and subtle floral lift. This impeccably balanced and seamless wine actually shut down in the glass and showed a serious underlying structure. A great and eminently ageworthy vintage for this Saint-Julien estate, whose wines have been on fire in recent years.
JS 91 (3/2013): Wonderful aromas of blackberries and chocolate follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a structured finish. Dense and rich. Try in 2016. |
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| Ch. Talbot |
2003 |
St. Julien
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$161.99 |
28 |
|
| |
JS 91 (3/2011): Floral, with a menthol character on the nose. Full bodied, with a tight palate of spices, fruit, and chewy tannins. Juicy, but needs some time. Pull the cork after 2012. Find the wine
WA 90 (4/2006): From bottle the 2003 is showing as well as can be expected. A soft, sexy, near-term style of claret with a deep plum/ruby/purple-tinged color, a big, sweet nose of anise, creme de cassis, smoke, Provencal herbs, and some spice box, it is opulent, fleshy, not profoundly concentrated, but rich enough. Everything is nicely balanced with silky tannin and low acidity. Drink it over the next 12-14 years as this is a seductive wine.
VM 86-89 (6/2004): Medium red-ruby. Aromatic nose combines currant, kirsch, licorice and fresh herbs, lifted by exotic oak spices. Supple and moderately ripe, with slightly medicinal, minty flavors and good breadth. Not especially gripping wine but finishes with reasonably ripe tannins and good length. |
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| Ch. Tertre Roteboeuf |
2009 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,735.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (7/2012): Dark ruby-red. Ripe red cherry, raspberry liqueur, coffee and underbrush on the concentrated nose. Then rich, dense and suave on the palate, with a chocolatey ripeness to the red and dark fruit flavors. Finishes very long, with enticing juiciness and smooth tannins. This very rich, sweet Tertre-Roteboeuf is in the process of shutting down and actually offers less of the exuberantly rich sweet fruit it showed during the Primeurs, but it has the stuffing and backbone for a glorious mid-term life in bottle. Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
2010 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,042.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96+ (7/2013): Saturated ruby. Deep aromas of red and black fruits, violet, gunflint, licorice and bitter chocolate, complemented by a sexy oak-derived note of hickory smoke. Large-scaled and sweet, but with terrific precision and refinement to the flavors of dark berries, chocolate, licorice and minerals. Finishes polished and long. Not as opulent or exotic as the 2009, but offers exceptional sweetness and size while managing to maintain impressive verve and thrust. A great 2010. Stephen Tanzer. |
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| Vieux Chateau Certan |
1990 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,612.98 |
1 |
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| |
WA 94 (6/2009): This was a very strong vintage for Vieux Chateau Certan. The 1990 reveals a deep garnet color to the rim along with a sweet bouquet of charcoal, licorice, roasted herbs, forest floor, and a meaty, truffle-like scent. A fleshy, full-bodied wine with exceptionally low acidity, plenty of melted tannin, and a long, layered finish, this beauty is close to full maturity, but it is in no danger of falling apart. It should keep for another 15+ years.
VM 91+ (11/1993): Good medium color. Fascinating animal/vegetable/mineral nose, with an overlay of smoky oak. Very good structure and old-viney intensity of flavor-but with more cabernet, this can't match the density of some of its Pomerol neighbors. Still, the long, firm, subtle aftertaste indicates great things ahead. Not quite as flamboyant as the '89 but perhaps better structured. |
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|
2000 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,873.98 |
1 |
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| |
WA 95 (4/2003): The dense ruby/purple-colored, tight 2000 gradually reveals notes of oak, tapenade, blackberries, spice box, licorice, and vanilla. Deep, medium to full-bodied, and powerful, with superb purity, low acidity, and high tannin, this backward, concentrated Vieux Chateau Certan falls just short of rivaling the sensational 1998. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030.
VM 93 (6/2003): (70% merlot, 20% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon) Moderately saturated ruby-red. More merlot-dominated aromas of raspberry, plum, espresso, mocha and game. Silky, lush and thick, with compelling flavors of boysenberry, bitter cherry and dark chocolate. Complex, smoky, lively wine, finishing with strong torrefaction notes and lovely subtle persistence. The merlot component here goes through its malolactic fermentation in barriques. |
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|
2005 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,615.98 |
1 |
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| |
JS 97 (5/2012): This begins with a sexy roasted fruit character on the nose, then opens up to hints of spice, chocolate, wet earth, and dried flowers. The palate is incredible, with a concentration that builds, and a finish that remains agile and racy. Very defined and beautiful wine with great length and freshness. This still needs some time in the bottle. Pull the cork in 2018.
WA 95 (4/2008): A stunning effort from Alexander Thienpont, the 2005 Vieux Chateau Certan (a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc) reveals an inky/blue/purple color along with a rich, sumptuous perfume of black olives, lavender, roasted herbs, licorice, pain grille, and oodles of truffles as well as creme de cassis. In the mouth, hints of chocolate and charcoal also make an appearance along with good acidity, fabulous purity, and a full-bodied, powerful mouthfeel. In keeping with the style of this terroir, the wine is reserved and restrained, but deep. It should develop magnificently, and age for 30-40 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035.
VM 92+ (6/2008): (80% merlot) Bright ruby-red. Very closed nose hints at licorice and nutty oak. Sweet and broad in the mouth, with a chocolatey ripeness but less energy and grip than the 2006. This is more mouthfilling, and more sexy today in the middle palate, but may ultimately be less complex. Or is it just more reserved today? Finishes with substantial tannins that call for at least several years of aging. |
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|
2009 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,001.98 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 100 (2/2012): This is a wine that had extreme intensity of electrifying tannins and acidity, with supercharged fruit. Full-bodied, yet agile and lively. It touches every taste bud on your palate. Chocolate mousse and fruit. I am lost for words. Legendary 1950 all over again. Try it in 2020.
WA 99 (2/2012): The 2009's nearly 14% natural alcohol, exquisite ripeness, and incredible complex bouquet of Asian spices, fruitcake, licorice, smoke, blackberries and black currants are to die for. A blend of 84% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, it possesses a viscous texture as well as a freshness and vibrancy that are remarkable given the wine’s weight, richness and potential massiveness. This extraordinary effort is one of the finest Vieux Chateau Certans made over the last sixty years. It will undoubtedly shut down in bottle, requiring a decade or more of cellaring. It should keep for 50 years thereafter. Proprietor Thienpont thinks it is a modern day version of the 1948.
VM 95 (7/2012): Bright medium-deep ruby. Musky aromas of red plum, blackcurrant, cocoa and tobacco leaf. Juicy, sappy and rather stylish on the palate, combining pepper and herb qualities with a subtle touch of sweetness. Not a hugely concentrated wine but amazingly well balanced and silky, and with insidious depth of flavor. Finishes with suave, spreading tannins. |
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|
2009 |
Pomerol (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,111.98 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 100 (2/2012): This is a wine that had extreme intensity of electrifying tannins and acidity, with supercharged fruit. Full-bodied, yet agile and lively. It touches every taste bud on your palate. Chocolate mousse and fruit. I am lost for words. Legendary 1950 all over again. Try it in 2020.
WA 99 (2/2012): The 2009's nearly 14% natural alcohol, exquisite ripeness, and incredible complex bouquet of Asian spices, fruitcake, licorice, smoke, blackberries and black currants are to die for. A blend of 84% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, it possesses a viscous texture as well as a freshness and vibrancy that are remarkable given the wine’s weight, richness and potential massiveness. This extraordinary effort is one of the finest Vieux Chateau Certans made over the last sixty years. It will undoubtedly shut down in bottle, requiring a decade or more of cellaring. It should keep for 50 years thereafter. Proprietor Thienpont thinks it is a modern day version of the 1948.
VM 95 (7/2012): Bright medium-deep ruby. Musky aromas of red plum, blackcurrant, cocoa and tobacco leaf. Juicy, sappy and rather stylish on the palate, combining pepper and herb qualities with a subtle touch of sweetness. Not a hugely concentrated wine but amazingly well balanced and silky, and with insidious depth of flavor. Finishes with suave, spreading tannins. |
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|
2010 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,190.98 |
10 |
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| |
JS 100 (11/2013): A perfect wine with perfect purity of fruit. It shows gorgeous aromas of blackberries, currants and cedar with hints of chocolate. Full body, with a lovely sweetness of fruit and ripe tannins. It goes to chocolate, hazelnut and spices. Nutmeg too. Sexy and incredible. It has so much depth of fruit and density. Better in 2020.
WA 99 (2/2013): The 2010 Vieux Chateau Certan, a blend of 86% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, tips the scales at 14.5% alcohol. Production was lower than in 2009 and the alcohol slightly higher, but the pH is 3.7, which is surprisingly reasonable given the lofty power and alcoholic clout this full-bodied wine possesses. Dense purple-colored , the 2010 displays a vivid yet astonishing array of spice box, red, blue and black fruits, crushed rock and spring flowers. The oak is well-concealed behind the lavish concentration and richness. Exceptionally pure, this unbelievable wine flirts with perfection. Unfortunately, there is 20% less of it than in 2009, and the tannins warrant a good 8-10 years of cellaring, as I suspect it could actually close down. This is another 40- to 50-year effort in 2010 that should elicit considerable interest from wine consumers.
VM 96+ (7/2013): Good deep ruby. Spicy aromas of blueberry, licorice, minerals, flowers and bitter chocolate. Sweet, suave and deep, with lovely lift to the complex cabernet franc-driven violet, cocoa and white pepper flavors. Firmly structured and long on the refined, youthfully chewy, tannic finish. This 2010 will really need at least a few years to expand, but will probably always remain a more austere wine than the 2009. I think will also prove to be a very ageworthy VCC. Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
2011 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,067.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (4/2014): The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2011 Vieux Chateau Certan offers a beautiful bouquet of plums, black cherries, cassis and hints of graphite as well as spice, an excellent texture and medium body. A success in this difficult vintage, it should age easily for 10-15 years. Yet after the trilogy of great wines in 2008, 2009 and 2010, few consumers are likely to pay much attention to this 2011. |
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|
2011 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,075.98 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (4/2014): The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2011 Vieux Chateau Certan offers a beautiful bouquet of plums, black cherries, cassis and hints of graphite as well as spice, an excellent texture and medium body. A success in this difficult vintage, it should age easily for 10-15 years. Yet after the trilogy of great wines in 2008, 2009 and 2010, few consumers are likely to pay much attention to this 2011. |
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|
2011 |
Pomerol (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,075.98 |
1 |
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| |
| WA 91 (4/2014): The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2011 Vieux Chateau Certan offers a beautiful bouquet of plums, black cherries, cassis and hints of graphite as well as spice, an excellent texture and medium body. A success in this difficult vintage, it should age easily for 10-15 years. Yet after the trilogy of great wines in 2008, 2009 and 2010, few consumers are likely to pay much attention to this 2011. |
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|
2014 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,005.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (3/2018): The 2014 Vieux-Château Certan has an attractive bouquet with blackberry, clove and truffle aromas, nicely defined though it seems to have closed up a little since I tasted it just after bottling. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and a keen thread of acidity. The palate shows the real potential, more than the nose at the moment. There is wondrous linearity and precision and it finishes with haunting grace. At this tasting I marked this lower than I wanted because it just continuously improved in the glass after I announced my score to the group. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. Neal Martin. |
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|
2014 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,148.98 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (3/2018): The 2014 Vieux-Château Certan has an attractive bouquet with blackberry, clove and truffle aromas, nicely defined though it seems to have closed up a little since I tasted it just after bottling. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and a keen thread of acidity. The palate shows the real potential, more than the nose at the moment. There is wondrous linearity and precision and it finishes with haunting grace. At this tasting I marked this lower than I wanted because it just continuously improved in the glass after I announced my score to the group. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. Neal Martin. |
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|
2015 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,655.98 |
1 |
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| |
JD 100 (2/2019): I was able to taste both the 2015 and 2016 grand vins, and these are heavenly, magical wines that could not be any better. Starting with the 2015 Vieux Château Certan, it shows the opulent, flamboyant style of the vintage to a T and reveals a saturated purple/ruby color, a monster bouquet of blackberries, tobacco, kirsch, dried spices, and loamy earth, full-bodied richness, sweet tannins, and a finish that won’t quit. A thrill a minute, wine doesn’t get any better, and I only wish every reader could taste this beauty. Drink it any time over the coming 30 years or more.
VM 100 (2/2018): The 2015 Vieux Château Certan is every bit as magnificent from bottle as it was from barrel. Rich, sumptuous and explosive in the glass, the 2015 is pure class. The flavors are deep and boldly sketched in this sumptuous, spectacularly ripe Pomerol. Inky blue/purplish fruit, spice, lavender, licorice and menthol all develop in the glass, but it is the wine's textural richness and intensity that stand out most. As good as the 2015 is today, it is going to need at least 15-20 years to be at its very best. Is there anything more I can ask of the 2015? No, there is not. This is a tremendous showing. Antonio Galloni.
JS 100 (2/2018): The blackberries, blueberries, oyster shell and violets are so mesmerizing. Full-bodied, focused and deep. It takes you to another space and plane. Dried flowers and dark fruit. The tannins are perfectly crafted. Keeps going as you taste it. Drink in 2023 but why wait?
WA 98+ (4/2018): Blended of 80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Vieux Chateau Certan opens with profound notes of blueberry compote, dried mulberries, black forest cake, licorice, violets and garrigue with wafts of black truffles, sandalwood and rose hips. Medium to full-bodied, very earthy/savory and beautifully layered with very plush yet present tannins, it offers lovely freshness and a very long minerally finish. So very Pomerol! |
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2016 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,269.98 |
3 |
|
| |
| JS 98-99 (4/2017): The balance and finesse to this wine are really beautiful with ultra-fine tannins and beautiful fruit. It’s full and structured yet so long and intense. It’s a wine that seduces you with every sip — already. Great selection here. Quite simply turbocharged at the end. |
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2016 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,348.98 |
3 |
|
| |
| JS 98-99 (4/2017): The balance and finesse to this wine are really beautiful with ultra-fine tannins and beautiful fruit. It’s full and structured yet so long and intense. It’s a wine that seduces you with every sip — already. Great selection here. Quite simply turbocharged at the end. |
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2017 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,189.98 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (2/2020): Possibly the wine of the vintage, the 2017 Vieux Chateau Certan is a blend of 81% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from the highest point on the Pomerol plateau. Deep purple, with a heavenly bouquet of creme de cassis, blueberries, scorched earth, crushed violets, tobacco, and earth, this beauty is full-bodied, has incredible depth of fruit, ripe, present tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish. This estate has been on fire of late, and this is undoubtedly a worthy follow-on to the otherworldly 2015 and 2016. It has the depth of fruit and texture to offer pleasure even today, yet a solid 7-8 years of cellaring are warranted, and it should be long-lived. Bravo!
VM 94 (2/2020): The 2017 Vieux Château Certan was bottled at the end of May. It has a perfumed, slightly tertiary bouquet with blackberry, wild heather and just a touch of menthol. The palate is medium-bodied with fleshy ripe tannins on the entry, mainly dark black fruit, rather introverted at the moment that just needs bottle age to show what it can be. Veins of dark chocolate towards the finish, I appreciate the structure of this VCC and the freshness it shows towards the overtly saline, Japanese nori tinged finish. Alexandre and Guillaume Thienpont have overseen a very assured and captivating Pomerol that will age gracefully over many years. Neal Martin.
JS 98 (12/2019): The purity and complexity is so mesmerizing for 2017. Raspberries and black fruit with sweet-tobacco and blood-orange undertones. Medium to full body. The tannins are so polished and pure and push out the edges on the wine. Fresh and pretty. Deep. Needs two or three years to perfect it. Try after 2023. |
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2018 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,375.98 |
1 |
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| |
JD 99 (3/2021): The flagship 2018 Vieux Château Certan is based on 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc and was brought up in (I suspect) roughly 50% new French oak. It tips the scale at 14.5% natural alcohol, which is the same as the 2010 (slightly higher than the 2009) and has a pH of 3.78, which is also very close to the 2010. This rock star of a Pomerol offers a kaleidoscopic array of red, black, and blue fruits, white truffle, spring flowers, tobacco, and crushed rock-like minerality on the nose. It has perfectly integrated oak, gorgeous concentration, building yet ultra-fine tannins, and not a hard edge to be found. I was able to follow this bottle for multiple days, and the large Cabernet Franc component became more and dominant, yet it never truly shut down and was always a joy to drink. Nevertheless, a good 7-8 years of bottle age are warranted, and it should evolve for 30-40 years in cold cellars. Again, the Thienpont family produces a heavenly wine that wine lovers should all have in their cellar. Along with Petrus, Conseillante, Lafleur, and a handful of others, it's one of the appellation's most singular wines.
WA 97-100 (4/2019): The 2018 Vieux Château Certan is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. Yields were 40 hectoliters per hectare. The wine has a pH of 3.78, 14.4% alcohol and an IPT (total polyphenol index) of 77. Medium to deep garnet-purple—it has a very vibrant color—it drifts effortlessly out of the glass with wonderfully intense, beautifully delineated scents of red roses, black raspberries, kirsch and Darjeeling tea before the powerful, profound black fruits kick in: baked plums, wild blueberries, molten licorice and mulberries with touches of cigar box, cinnamon stick, tapenade and truffles. Full-bodied, rich, densely packed and revealing layer upon layer of red and black fruits with an incredible array of floral and spicy sparks, it has a high level of super ripe, incredibly fine, velvety soft tannins and fantastic freshness (not just from acid but from bright, crunchy fruit). It finishes very long, marvelously layered and with such jaw-dropping brightness from the fruit, the end is almost electric. Incredible.
VM 94-97 (5/2019): The 2018 Vieux Château Certan is a very pretty wine built more on elegance, finesse and aromatic nuance. Relative to the recent past, the 2018 shows a much more mid-weight structure and less of the creaminess of either 2015 or 2016. Much of that is attributable to a blend that includes 30% Cabernet Franc. Lavender, rose petal, mint and blueberry fruit all grace the 2018. Far from an obvious wine, the 2018 is going to need a number of years to be at its best, as it is a wine of total understatement and class. Fine beads of tannin support the understated finish. In 2018, VCC is a wine of refinement and subtlety more than anything else. I don't see the same visceral thrill as in a number of vintages of the recent past. Perhaps that will come in bottle. Antonio Galloni.
JS 99-100 (4/2019): This is a significant VCC with masses of fruit and juicy tannins. It’s fresh, but impresses you with the rich and powerful fruit. A tower of a wine. Incredible depth and density. Thick and muscular. It is 30 per cent cabernet franc, the rest merlot. |
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2018 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,735.98 |
1 |
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| |
JD 99 (3/2021): The flagship 2018 Vieux Château Certan is based on 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc and was brought up in (I suspect) roughly 50% new French oak. It tips the scale at 14.5% natural alcohol, which is the same as the 2010 (slightly higher than the 2009) and has a pH of 3.78, which is also very close to the 2010. This rock star of a Pomerol offers a kaleidoscopic array of red, black, and blue fruits, white truffle, spring flowers, tobacco, and crushed rock-like minerality on the nose. It has perfectly integrated oak, gorgeous concentration, building yet ultra-fine tannins, and not a hard edge to be found. I was able to follow this bottle for multiple days, and the large Cabernet Franc component became more and dominant, yet it never truly shut down and was always a joy to drink. Nevertheless, a good 7-8 years of bottle age are warranted, and it should evolve for 30-40 years in cold cellars. Again, the Thienpont family produces a heavenly wine that wine lovers should all have in their cellar. Along with Petrus, Conseillante, Lafleur, and a handful of others, it's one of the appellation's most singular wines.
WA 97-100 (4/2019): The 2018 Vieux Château Certan is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. Yields were 40 hectoliters per hectare. The wine has a pH of 3.78, 14.4% alcohol and an IPT (total polyphenol index) of 77. Medium to deep garnet-purple—it has a very vibrant color—it drifts effortlessly out of the glass with wonderfully intense, beautifully delineated scents of red roses, black raspberries, kirsch and Darjeeling tea before the powerful, profound black fruits kick in: baked plums, wild blueberries, molten licorice and mulberries with touches of cigar box, cinnamon stick, tapenade and truffles. Full-bodied, rich, densely packed and revealing layer upon layer of red and black fruits with an incredible array of floral and spicy sparks, it has a high level of super ripe, incredibly fine, velvety soft tannins and fantastic freshness (not just from acid but from bright, crunchy fruit). It finishes very long, marvelously layered and with such jaw-dropping brightness from the fruit, the end is almost electric. Incredible.
VM 94-97 (5/2019): The 2018 Vieux Château Certan is a very pretty wine built more on elegance, finesse and aromatic nuance. Relative to the recent past, the 2018 shows a much more mid-weight structure and less of the creaminess of either 2015 or 2016. Much of that is attributable to a blend that includes 30% Cabernet Franc. Lavender, rose petal, mint and blueberry fruit all grace the 2018. Far from an obvious wine, the 2018 is going to need a number of years to be at its best, as it is a wine of total understatement and class. Fine beads of tannin support the understated finish. In 2018, VCC is a wine of refinement and subtlety more than anything else. I don't see the same visceral thrill as in a number of vintages of the recent past. Perhaps that will come in bottle. Antonio Galloni.
JS 99-100 (4/2019): This is a significant VCC with masses of fruit and juicy tannins. It’s fresh, but impresses you with the rich and powerful fruit. A tower of a wine. Incredible depth and density. Thick and muscular. It is 30 per cent cabernet franc, the rest merlot. |
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2019 |
Pomerol (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,615.98 |
2 |
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| |
WA 97-100 (6/2020): Very deep purple-black in color, the 2019 Vieux Château Certan slowly opens out to reveal a heart-stopping perfume of red roses, kirsch, black raspberries, violets and star anise over a powerful core of plum preserves, blueberry pie and boysenberries plus hints of cardamom, sandalwood and Ceylon tea. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is achingly graceful, featuring tightly wound layers of crunchy blue and black fruits with tannins so ripe and finely grained, you really have to look for them. The acidity here is absolutely seamless, and the finish explodes into an array of mineral sparks. Be prepared to fall head over heals for this one.
VM 96-98 (6/2020): The 2019 Vieux Château Certan is deep in colour. It has a fabulous, very intense nose that explodes from the glass with billowing scents of black cherries, freshly shaved black truffles, raspberry and light rose petal aromas. The palate is so sensual and seductive on the entry, its creamy texture irresistible and completely disguising the structure underneath. Interestingly this VCC really comes into its own after 12-hours of opening, revealing more quintessential Pomerol characteristics and more grip on the finish. Alexandre and Guillaume Thienpont fashioned a brilliant follow-up to the glorious 2018. Neal Martin.
JS 98-99 (6/2020): The nose is so beautiful, offering dried flowers, white pepper and other spices. Yet,there’s also bright, blue fruit. Tar, too. Love the depth of fruit here. The wine flows across the palate with so well integrated tannins. You just want to drink it. Glorious. The cabernet in this makes it almost Medoc-like. A blend of 78% merlot, 15% cabernet franc and 7% cabernet sauvignon. |
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2022 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,618.98 |
2 |
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JD 98-100 (5/2023): One of the wines of the vintage, without a doubt, the 2022 Vieux Château Certan comes from healthy yields of 38 hectoliters per hectare and is 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Jaw-droppingly good in every sense, its deep purple hue is followed by a massive array of black cherries, violets, red plums, chocolate, and violets. This carries to a full-bodied Pomerol with a voluptuously layered mouthfeel, perfect tannins, and a great, great finish. I never find Vieux Château Certan to have the overt power and structure of Petrus, or the feminine elegance of Conseillante, but it's unrivaled in its texture, seamlessness, and purity. If this doesn't put a smile on your face, I don't know what will. And I'll be a buyer.
VM 98-100 (5/2023): The 2022 Vieux Château Certan is a wine of tremendous sophistication and polish. I expected to see a more opulent VCC, but the 2022 is surprisingly delicate and nuanced. The blend is 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, which means all the Cabernets at the château were used in Grand Vin. Perhaps that explains the wine’s construction, favoring length, persistence and aromatics more than size. Crème de cassis, lavender, spice and licorice hints linger on the super-expressive finish. There’s really not much more to say except that the 2022 is magical. “Real heat started in June," explained Alexandre Thienpont. “We had 15mm of rain over two days in mid-August that really helped. Even so, yields were 35 hectoliters per hectare, so lower than 2020. Berries weighed less athan a gram and juice yields were low.” Antonio Galloni.
WA 97-99 (5/2023): A blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon (very similar to the 2019), the 2022 Vieux Château Certan is a magical wine of exemplary harmony and balance. Offering up complex aromas of dark berries and cherries mingled with notions of exotic spices, licorice, iris, violets and loamy soil, it's full-bodied, supple and seamless, its sweet structuring tannins entirely concealed by a multidimensional core of pure, vibrant fruit. This sensual, perfumed Pomerol is likely to rank alongside the 2019 and 2016 in the pantheon of recent Vieux Château Certan vintages.
JA 96 (5/2023): Firm tannic frame, with ink, graphite, violet flowers and red roses, even hints of black truffles at this young age, a sign of the exuberance of the vintage and one that will no doubt increase with age. A little less Cabernet Franc in the blend than usual because they have one plot uprooted right now. The aromatics are explosing, but things are more serious on the palate, with grip and austerity, and it will need a good eight to ten years in bottle to soften. Beautiful nutmeg and clove spice, with a mouthwatering finish. 35hl/h yield. 65% new oak. Oldest vines date back to 1958. 75% new oak. |
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| | Bordeaux White |
| Ch. Carbonnieux |
2017 |
Pessac Leognan Blanc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$315.97 |
2 |
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WA 89-91 (4/2018): The Carbonnieux 2017 Blanc is scented of grapefruit and squeezed lemons with a touch of lime leaves and chalk dust. The palate is medium-bodied, crisp and clean with great intensity and a long racy finish.
VM 92-94 (5/2018): The 2017 Carbonnieux Blanc has an impressive bouquet with scents of Granny Smith apples, crushed stone and nettle. There is certainly impressive intensity here – a bouquet that means business. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity. This is one of the most sophisticated white Carbonnieux that I have encountered at this stage with wonderful mineralite and veins of ginger furnishing the finish that convey brio and confidence. This should evolve into an Outstanding Pessac-Leognan. Neal Martin.
JD 89-91 (4/2018): Notes of lemon curd, citrus rind and hints of crushed rock define the 2017 Château Carbonnieux, which is medium-bodied, pure, and elegant on the palate. It’s another great white from the Pessac-Leognan region in 2017.
JS 90-91 (4/2018): This is very salty and flavorful with sliced green apples, limes and green pears. Medium-bodied, layered and flavorful. Plenty going on here as always. Minerally. |
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| Ch. Climens |
2009 |
Barsac (24x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$918.98 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 97 (6/2016): The 2009 Climens is certainly more expressive on the nose compared to the 2010 Climens with potent honeysuckle, fresh pear and orange blossom that gently unfurl from the glass. Compared to the 2009 Rieussec for example, this is powerful but not quite as flamboyant. The palate is just fantastic, so energetic and tensile with layers of minerally, honeyed fruit laced with spice, sea salt, a touch of licorice and quince. It will be a multi-dimensional Climens that has a very long future ahead, a killer Sauternes that is going to give a great deal of pleasure over many years. |
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| Ch. Lynch Bages |
2023 |
Blanc de Lynch Bages Bordeaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$459.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Ch. Pape-Clement |
2016 |
Pessac Leognan Blanc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$638.99 |
3 |
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| JS 94-95 (4/2017): A solid and four-square white with lemon-rind and dried-apple character. Pears, too. Full and dense with layers of fruit and phenolic character. Red wine texture in a white. One for aging. |
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| Ch. Rieussec |
2018 |
Sauternes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$381.99 |
1 |
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JA 94 (4/2019): This takes a minute to lift out of the glass, with a focus on texture more than aromatics, but it’s highly attractive with a luscious, gorgeous texture and flavours that are concentrated but elegant and fine, showing touches of mandarin, saffron and spice alongside a creamy citrus mid-palate. The harvest took place between 10 and 31 October, later than last year - the day they finished in 2017 was the day they started in 2018. A yield of 17hl/ha.
VM 93 (3/2021): The 2018 Rieussec does come across a little oaky on the nose, although that is always the case here. Underneath lies plenty of honeyed fruit and touches of lemon curd, almond and apricot. The palate is well balanced, offering very pure honeyed fruit laced with vanilla, almond and hints of nougat, and more apricot and peach toward the finish. This will be a very seductive Rieussec, but afford it 4–5 years to fully assimilate the oak. NEal Martin. |
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| Ch. La Tour Blanche |
2009 |
Sauternes (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$995.99 |
1 |
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JS 96 (5/2013): Impressive density of fruity here with caramel, dried lemons, apricots and honey. Full yet reserved and beautiful. Wonderful length. One of the Sauternes of the vintage. Better in 2016.
WA 93 (2/2013): The 2009 La Tour Blanche has a gorgeous, botrytis-rich bouquet with lemon thyme, honey and spice, with just a touch of alcoholic warmth denying it the clarity it deserves. The palate is crisp and taut on the entry with notes of apricot and white peach emerging with a few swirls of the glass. It offers a pleasing viscosity and volume in the mouth, although compared to its barrel showing, it appears to have tightened up more than I expected, possibly a sign that it is a wine in for the long haul. Drink 2017-2035. |
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| Ch. d' Yquem |
2023 |
Sauternes (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$861.98 |
6 |
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WA 100 (3/2026): With 153 grams per liter of residual sugar—placing it among the 10 most concentrated vintages in the château’s history—the 2023 d'Yquem ranks among the finest wines bottled here under Lorenzo Pasquini’s direction. It unfurls from the glass with a complex, vibrant and remarkably pure bouquet of pineapple, guava, mango, confit citrus, beeswax and spices. Full-bodied, dense and concentrated, it combines formidable depth with perfectly judged control, built around a fleshy core of fruit, framed by lively acidity and a crystalline texture and culminating in an endless, refined and ethereal finish. Yquem’s natural power is here masterfully harnessed by the vintage’s freshness and tension, revealing an aesthetic of precision and vibrancy encountered only in the estate’s greatest years—made all the more remarkable by the fact that the château now achieves even higher levels of concentration than a decade ago, without any perceptible increase in sweetness on the palate.
VM 99 (3/2026): The 2023 Yquem, a blend of 70% Semillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc, contains 154 grams per litre of residual sugar - less than the 2022. As usual, the 2023 matured in 100% new oak, mainly French, with a small percentage from Austria. The nose is so seductive that it should come with a warning sticker. Pure and mellow, it offers beguiling scents of wild honey, quince jelly, almond shavings and that signature hint of saffron destined to accentuate with age. It displays wonderful definition, though it does not have the "aromatic drama" of the previous vintage. The palate has exquisite balance and poise that belies the depth of this Yquem, though it is less exuberant, less ostentatious than the 2022. It is really the umami sensation that defines the 2023, how it caresses, almost soothes the grateful taste buds, vanilla and flecks of white chocolate lingeringon the aftertaste. This will probably drink a little sooner than the 2022. If the 2023 does have a faultm it's that it is so flattering in its flush of youth that it will be difficult to resist. Sublime. Neal Martin. |
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| | Burgundy Red |
| Dom. Arlaud |
2020 |
Clos St. Denis Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$593.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. de L' Arlot |
2011 |
Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,002.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. du Comte Armand |
2015 |
Volnay (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,454.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Dom. Arnoux-Lachaux |
2016 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Les Proces (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,588.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Bitouzet-Prieur |
2019 |
Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chenes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$905.97 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Simon Bize |
2017 |
Savigny Les Beaune 1er Cru Aux Vergelesses (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,852.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2018 |
Savigny Les Beaune 1er Cru Aux Vergelesses (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,986.99 |
3 |
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| |
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| Dom. Chandon de Briailles |
2009 |
Corton Bressandes Grand Cru (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,977.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2010 |
Corton Bressandes Grand Cru (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,919.99 |
1 |
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2012 |
Pernand Vergelesses 1er Cru Ile de Vergelesses (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$876.99 |
2 |
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| |
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|
2014 |
Pernand Vergelesses 1er Cru Ile de Vergelesses (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$886.99 |
2 |
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| |
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| Dom. Coquard Loison-Fleurot |
2020 |
Clos de la Roche Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,440.99 |
1 |
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| |
| VM 96-98 (12/2021): The 2020 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru has a powerful yet beguiling, elegant bouquet that offers layers of red cherry and blackberry fruit, the oak here seamless integrated, likewise the whole bunch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, saturated tannins, the fleshy/puppy fat almost disguising the backbone present here. Very persistent on the finish, this is an excellent, luxurious and yet sophisticated Clos de la Roche. |
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| Dom. de Courcel |
2011 |
Pommard 1er Cru Grand Clos des Epenots (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,356.99 |
1 |
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| |
| BH 93 (4/2014): ( from an enormous 4.8 ha parcel with vines ranging from 50 to 65 years of age.) This is also quite ripe yet retains a lovely freshness to the cassis, black cherry, lavender and warm earth scents. There is excellent power and volume to the concentrated, intense and mouth coating big-bodied flavors that culminate in an impressively long and balanced finish. This possesses both good power and superb length and is absolutely one to consider. Drink 2023+. Outstanding! |
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|
2017 |
Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,511.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Joseph Drouhin |
2012 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,888.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2017 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$553.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| S. Esmonin |
2020 |
Gevrey Chambertin (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,174.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Jean-Marie Fourrier |
2017 |
Bourgogne Pinot Noir (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,315.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Jean Grivot |
2017 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,198.99 |
2 |
|
| |
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2018 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,276.99 |
2 |
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| |
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2018 |
Nuits St. Georges Les Charmois (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,662.99 |
2 |
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| |
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2018 |
Nuits St. Georges Les Charmois (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,909.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2019 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$910.99 |
3 |
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| |
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2020 |
Richebourg Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,928.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
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2020 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$984.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2021 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,133.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2022 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,158.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Dom. Anne-Francoise Gros |
2012 |
Echezeaux Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,327.99 |
1 |
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| |
BH 91-93 (4/2014): (From a .26 ha parcel of vines planted in 1931 in the climat Champs Traversin, which is occasionally referred to as Le Petit Citeaux.) Here the wood treatment is notably more discreet if not completely imperceptible as it allows the spice melange of red and black pinot fruit, plum, earth and sandalwood hints to be easily appreciated. There is fine volume and density to the velvety, mouth coating and seductively textured flavors that possess so much dry extract on the balanced finish that this could easily be enjoyed now though note well that there is plenty of development potential. This is really quite good. Drink 2022+.
WA 89-91 (12/2013): The 2012 Echezeaux Grand Cru comes from 80-year-old vines and it is being raised in 80% new oak. It has a delightful, feminine bouquet with hints of white chocolate infusing the red berry fruit profile. It is a playful, quite joyful nose. The palate is well-balanced with fine tannins and a mixture of red and black fruit on the entry. It gathers weight towards the middle and then just steps off the gas towards the linear finish. It maintains fine balanced and there is an attractive tobacco note on the long aftertaste. Three to five barriques produced this year. |
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| Dom. Michel Gros |
2016 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,594.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Anne-Francoise Gros |
2017 |
Pommard 1er Cru Les Chanlins (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,685.99 |
4 |
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| |
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| Dom. Michel Gros |
2017 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,538.99 |
2 |
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| |
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| Dom. Anne-Francoise Gros |
2017 |
Savigny les Beaune 1er Cru Le Clos des Guettes (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,616.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2018 |
Pommard 1er Cru Les Chanlins (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$548.99 |
4 |
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| |
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| Dom. Anne Gros |
2019 |
Echezeaux Grand Cru Les Loachausses (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,733.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Anne-Francoise Gros |
2019 |
Richebourg Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,246.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| BH 91-94 (4/2021): This is quite firmly reduced and completely unreadable in its current condition. There is much to like however on the palate of the sleek, well-detailed and beautifully textured larger-scaled flavors that also flash ample minerality and serious power on the slightly woody finish. This is somewhat awkward today though all of the components appear to be present for this to harmonize, especially since the very firm and robust supporting tannins make clear that this is going to require extended cellaring to arrive at its apogee. As such my projected range offers the benefit of the doubt that this will progressively harmonize after a few years of bottle age. (Drink starting 2034). |
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| Louis Jadot |
1999 |
Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru Domaine Louis Jadot (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,448.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Francois Lamarche |
2018 |
Vosne Romanee (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,806.99 |
2 |
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2020 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$793.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. des Lambrays |
2015 |
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,121.99 |
4 |
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| |
| BH 94 (1/2018): (produced from two large parcels of differing vine age - one that is approximately two-thirds of the blend and is now 50+ years of age and a second, smaller group of vines that is approximately 25+ years of age; made with 100% whole cluster.) Here too the nose is quite ripe yet very fresh with its layered array of spicy and markedly floral-inflected black cherry and plum scents that are trimmed in both discreet wood and menthol nuances. There is impressive size, weight and power to the more mineral-driven and refined medium-bodied flavors that are shaped by a distinctly firm tannic spine on the wonderfully persistent and mildly austere finale. This is first-rate and one serious wine in 2015 and thus be prepared to allow it at least 10 to 12 years first. Drink 2027+. |
|
| Lucien Le Moine |
2018 |
Corton Perrieres Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,626.99 |
3 |
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| |
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| Dom. Leroy |
2008 |
Nuits St. Georges (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$14,838.99 |
1 |
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| |
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|
2011 |
Pommard Les Vignots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$18,378.99 |
1 |
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| |
WA 90 (8/2013): The 2011 Pommard Les Vignots was bottled December 2012. It has a complex, slightly earthy bouquet with subtle marine influences, defined and focused with hints of black olive emerging with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine focus, imbued with an Oriental edge (hoisin) which is folded into a fine silky finish. Drink now-2020.
BH 89 (4/2013): There is a soft touch of wood to the notably ripe yet cool and airy aromas of plum, cassis and wet stone. There is excellent volume and mid-palate concentration to the medium-bodied flavors that brim with dry extract on the detailed finish that exudes a fine minerality. This balanced effort delivers fine depth and length for its level. Drink 2018+. |
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| Thibault Liger-Belair |
2011 |
Corton Renardes Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,647.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Hubert Lignier |
2008 |
Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Clos Baulet (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,589.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Michel Magnien |
2019 |
Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,752.99 |
3 |
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| |
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| Dom. Meo-Camuzet |
2015 |
Bourgogne Rouge (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$405.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2018 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,543.99 |
2 |
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| |
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| Dom. Mongeard Mugneret |
2019 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Petits Monts (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,907.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Mugneret Gibourg |
2018 |
Vosne Romanee (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,669.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. JF Mugnier |
2020 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos de la Marechale (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,594.99 |
1 |
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| |
BH 93 (1/2023): An exceptionally pretty, indeed even perfumed, nose reflects aromas of dark currant, poached plum, newly turned earth and subtle anise hints. The refined and intense flavors possess good if not special density along with a beguiling sense of underlying tension that carries over to the dusty, youthfully austere, compact and lingering finish. This is unusually powerful, if a bit less refined, compared to its usual understated character and overall, it is really quite impressive.
VM 89 (1/2023): The 2020 Nuits Saint-Georges Clos de la Maréchale 1er Cru has a lovely dark plummy bouquet, kirsch and a touch of liquorice, perhaps a little sur-maturité. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, black cherries, hints of peppermint with a cassis finish. Maybe this just doesn't quite deliver the persistency that I anticipated when I tasted this from barrel. Neal Martin. |
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| Dom. Georges Noellat |
2013 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cer Les Boudots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,998.99 |
1 |
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2018 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,178.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Ponsot |
2018 |
Corton Bressandes Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,061.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. E. Rouget |
2023 |
Nuits St. Georges (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,116.99 |
2 |
|
| |
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| Dom. Georges Roumier |
2005 |
Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Clos de la Bussiere (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,147.98 |
1 |
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BH 91 (1/2008): A very fresh and unusually bright but more deeply pitched red fruit nose inflected with iron suffused earth, hints of underbrush and subtle sauvage notes leads to rich, full and admirably intense flavors that are at once powerful yet supple, all wrapped in a punchy and more complex and minerally finish than what I usually find here. Good stuff with excellent acid/fruit/tannin balance and recommended. Drink 2015+. Outstanding!
WA 90-91 (4/2007): Like the rest of the wines here at the time I tasted, Roumier’s 2005 Morey St. Denis Clos de la Bussiere had been sulfured and racked in autumn after a very late malo and was in barrel awaiting imminent assemblage in tank for (unfiltered) bottling. It was slightly reduced but responded well to a good shaking, displaying subtle black fruits, high-toned almond and maraschino, roasted meatiness, resin, and forest floor notes on the nose. It fills the mouth with roasted meat richness, bitter-sweet black fruits, high-toned distilled fruit esters, and finishes with solidity, grip, and savory saltiness.
VM 87-90 (4/2007): Dark, bright color. Fresh but inexpressive on the nose, hinting at black fruits and earth. Currently showing less charm and sweetness than the Chambolle villages. but possesses good density and grip. Quite tight today. The tannins dominate but are thoroughly ripe. This is still an infant, as it didn't finish its malolactic fermentation until October. |
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2006 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Cras (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,968.99 |
1 |
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WA 92 (12/2009): A complex aromatic melange of smoked meat; sauteed mushroom; diverse, lightly-cooked berries; and nutmeg greets the taster from the glass of Roumier 2006 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras. A tart edge to the fruit and savory salinity lend some of the same invigoration that characterized other wines in this collection, but here allied to deep meatiness and an underlying impression of wet stone. The tannins are superbly refined and the finish penetrating and dynamic in its interplay of fungal, fruity, mineral, carnal, and spicy notes. Here is another instance of the vigor and almost airy openness of the vintage beautifully expressed. I suspect this will be worth following for 6-8 years, but make sure not to deprive yourself of the pleasure of its youthful charms.
VM 90+ (4/2009): Good medium red. Aromas of candied raspberry, blueberry and blood orange. Silky and suave, with pure if youthfully imploded flavors of red berries and brown spices. In a rather strict, minerally style, finishing with firm tannic spine and impressive length and strength.
BH 90 (1/2009): Here the nose is distinctly more elegant and while there is a background trace of herbal present, it's very discreet and does not detract from the very pure and airy red pinot fruit and mineral notes that are picked up on the equally mineral-infused, textured and intense flavors that possess beautiful detail and cut on the vibrant and wonderfully long finish. This possesses real verve and excellent length and if it can add depth, it may surprise to the upside plus it is very Chambolle in character. Drink 2013+. |
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| Dom. Armand Rousseau |
2005 |
Gevrey Chambertin (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,663.99 |
1 |
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| VM 90 (6/2016): The 2005 Gevrey-Chambertin captures the richness of the year in its pliant, open personality. Wonderfully dense and expressive, especially for a village-level wine, the 2005 is drinking beautifully today. Worn-in leather, spices, tobacco and dried dark cherries meld into the succulent, expressive finish. This is a terrific village-level offering from Rousseau. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Serafin Pere et Fils |
2017 |
Gevrey Chambertin (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,396.99 |
2 |
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| Dom. Jean & Jean Louis Trapet |
2018 |
Le Chambertin Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$586.99 |
3 |
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2022 |
Latricieres Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,726.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. de la Vougeraie |
2022 |
Musigny Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$845.99 |
1 |
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| | Burgundy White |
| Dom. Jean Marc Boillot |
2019 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Champs Canet (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$812.99 |
2 |
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| Bouchard Pere et Fils |
2017 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,967.99 |
5 |
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| BH 93 (6/2019): A cool and admirably pure nose displays notes of green apple, floral, citrus and a hint of wood toast. There is excellent volume, power and punch to the well-detailed and overtly stony broad-shouldered flavors that coat the palate on the impressively long finish that also reflects a bitter lemon nuance. While this is a classically styled CC, it remains relatively refined and should drink reasonably well after only 5 years or so of bottle age. Drink 2027+. |
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| Dom. Francois Carillon |
2023 |
Puligny Montrachet Clos du Vieux Chateau (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,293.99 |
10 |
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| Dom. Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey |
2018 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,092.99 |
1 |
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WA 94 (1/2021): A tensile, racy wine—two-thirds from Pernand-Vergelesses, one-third from Aloxe-Corton—the 2018 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru unwinds in the glass with scents of white flowers, orange oil, buttery pastry and nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied, layered and fleshy, it's chiseled and saline, with impressive cut and grip.
BH 91-93 (6/2020): (the proportions have changed again and in 2018 are in a 35/65% proportion from Les Languettes in Aloxe and En Charlemagne in Pernand.) A restrained, ultra-fresh and distinctly floral nose reflects notes of various white orchard fruit aromas, lemon zest and discreet wood toast. There is outstanding volume to the rich and succulent broad-shouldered flavors that possess focused power on the beautifully long and sappy mineral-infused finish that is shaped by citrus-tinged acidity. This isn't quite as structured as the Chevalier, but it too is promising. Drink 2028+. |
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2019 |
Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,282.99 |
1 |
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2019 |
Chassagne Montrachet Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,210.99 |
2 |
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2020 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru Le Chateniere (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,094.99 |
1 |
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2021 |
Chassagne Montrachet Vieilles Vignes (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,421.99 |
2 |
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2021 |
Chassagne Montrachet Vieilles Vignes (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$741.99 |
1 |
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2022 |
Bourgogne Chardonnay (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$578.99 |
2 |
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2022 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru Le Chateniere (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,094.99 |
1 |
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2022 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru en Remilly (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,119.99 |
1 |
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2023 |
Bourgogne Chardonnay (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$578.99 |
1 |
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| Vincent Dancer |
2022 |
Bourgogne Blanc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$806.99 |
5 |
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| Dom. Jean Paul Droin |
2018 |
Chablis Grand Cru Valmur (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,464.99 |
1 |
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| Joseph Drouhin |
2019 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,969.99 |
1 |
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| BH 92-94 (6/2021): (from a .33 ha parcel in Les Languettes.) Prominent aromas of mineral reduction and floral elements are laced with hints of wood toast, citrus peel, apple and anise. The sleekly muscular and stony big-bodied flavors are also nicely refined yet powerful while possessing excellent delineation on the youthfully austere finale. This is clearly ripe yet manages to retain the style of a classic CC. Drink 2031+. |
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| Dom. Henri Gouges |
2021 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru La Perriere Blanc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,122.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Hubert Lamy |
2020 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru En Remilly (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,218.99 |
1 |
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WA 95 (1/2023): The 2020 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru En Remilly wafts from the glass with aromas of white flowers, crisp stone fruit, honeycomb, orange oil and freshly baked bread, followed by a medium to full-bodied, satiny and enveloping palate that's racy and precise, combining the aromatic expression and textural attack characteristic of its sunny exposition with the tension and cut appropriate to this high-altitude, stony site.
BH 92 (6/2023): This is aromatically quite similar to the Chez Edouard but with more prominent citrus influence. There is notably better density to the equally beautifully textured medium-bodied flavors that flash excellent minerality on the solidly powerful, lengthy and impeccably well-balanced finale. Like the Gravières, this should be enjoyable young but have no trouble repaying up to a decade of bottle age. (Drink starting 2028).
VM 88 (7/2024): The 2020 Saint-Aubin En Remilly 1er Cru has a perfumed bouquet with wet pavement and limestone aromas, pinning this as an En Remilly. It just becomes a little diffuse with aeration. The palate is slightly chalky on the entry, has crisp acidity, and may be a little too sharp on the citric finish. I would also prefer more length here. I'm surprised this turned out to be Lamy, but that's blind tasting for you. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting. Neal Martin. |
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| Dom. Leflaive |
2021 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,939.99 |
1 |
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| Bernard Moreau |
2020 |
Chassagne Montrachet (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$652.99 |
4 |
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BH 89-92 (6/2022): The underlying fruit is presently masked by just enough reduction to blur the nuance. More interesting are the solidly concentrated and sappy flavors that possess even better volume before culminating in a mouth coating and unusually powerful finish that possess excellent depth and persistence for a wine at this level. Very fine quality for a villages-level Chassagne and well-worth checking out.
VM 89-91 (12/2021): The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Village had been blended and fined. This is well-defined on the nose with lemon sherbet and light orange zest aromas, a very subtle mineral note that surfaces with time. The palate is well balanced with a hint of quince on the entry, quite taut and linear, plenty of freshness towards with just a very discrete pithiness. A fine Chassagne-Montrachet. Neal Martin. |
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2020 |
Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Maltroie (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$932.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Marc Morey |
2019 |
Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,548.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Thomas Morey |
2020 |
Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Vide Bourse (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$551.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Ponsot |
2017 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,427.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Rapet |
2018 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,162.99 |
1 |
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| Etienne Sauzet |
2016 |
Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$9,286.99 |
1 |
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2016 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,783.99 |
1 |
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2018 |
Chassagne Montrachet Enseignieres (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,912.99 |
2 |
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| | Champagne |
| Billecart-Salmon |
2013 |
Cuvee Elisabeth Rose Champagne
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$248.99 |
1 |
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| Bollinger |
2014 |
V.V. Brut Francaises Champagne
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,813.99 |
3 |
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| Dom Perignon |
1996 |
Oenotheque Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,720.98 |
1 |
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| WA 97 (12/2010): The 1996 Dom Perignon OEenotheque offers up layers of pastry, lemon, smoke and toastiness. At first deceptively understated, the wine turns positively explosive and layered on the palate, showing remarkable tension, elegance and power, all wrapped around a seriously intense frame. The balance between fruit and acidity is awesome. This is a marvelous DP OEeno. The OEeno is the same juice as the regular Dom Perignon, except the OEeno is aged on the cork while the regular DP is aged in crown-sealed bottles. Once disgorged, the OEenos gets a slightly lower dosage than is typical for the original release DP. This bottle was disgorged in 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2026. |
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1996 |
Oenotheque Champagne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,926.98 |
1 |
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| WA 97 (12/2010): The 1996 Dom Perignon OEenotheque offers up layers of pastry, lemon, smoke and toastiness. At first deceptively understated, the wine turns positively explosive and layered on the palate, showing remarkable tension, elegance and power, all wrapped around a seriously intense frame. The balance between fruit and acidity is awesome. This is a marvelous DP OEeno. The OEeno is the same juice as the regular Dom Perignon, except the OEeno is aged on the cork while the regular DP is aged in crown-sealed bottles. Once disgorged, the OEenos gets a slightly lower dosage than is typical for the original release DP. This bottle was disgorged in 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2026. |
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|
2000 |
P2 Plenitude Champagne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,847.97 |
1 |
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JS 97 (1/2018): A Champagne that has turned to a very fine texture with dried pineapple and lemon character. Medium to full body, complex and flavorful palate. Shows length and beauty. Pie crust, cooked apple and lemon rind continue on the finish. A truly great 2000 with a combination of finesse and strength. It’s very, very minerally to a point of sea salt. It was disgorged in first half of 2016. Drink or hold.
VM 96 (7/2017): Slate, crushed rocks, apricot jam, mint, honeysuckle and mint are some of the notes that run through the 2000 Dom Perignon P2. Open-knit, racy and seductive, the 2000 is a rare P2 that will drink well right out of the gate. The reductive character from long aging on the lees that is such a P2 signature adds nuance without overpowering the wine. There is wonderful breadth and amplitude here. In sum, the 2000 presents a striking interplay of the maturity that develops over extended time on lees and freshness. The creamy, seamless finish only adds to the wine’s considerable immediacy and sheer appeal. Baked apple, toast, brioche, pear, smoke, slate and lemon confit add nuances throughout. What a gorgeous wine this is. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2004 |
Brut Rose Champagne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,340.97 |
1 |
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VM 95 (7/2015): The 2004 Dom Perignon Rose has put on remarkable weight over the last year or so. A rich, voluptuous wine, the 2004 Rose hits the palate with stunning depth and resonance. The flavors are bold, rich and beautifully resonant from start to finish. Raspberry, cranberry, smoke, spice and crushed rocks build to the stunning, powerful finish. Vinous and ample, the 2004 Rose will drink well for decades. The 2004 just keeps getting better with time in bottle. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (6/2016): The fascinatingly copper-colored 2004 Dom Perignon Rose has a beautifully delicate bouquet of red fruits,and indicates a great purity and freshness. Kept on the lees for at least nine years to smooth the tannins the 2004 reveals a weightless power on the palate. It has a deep and concentrated, highly elegant Pinot character (though Chardonnay and Pinot are more or less 50/50), and is full of finesse and freshness. The 2004 is intense and vinous, yet pure, precise and extremely fine. Adorable. |
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2005 |
Brut Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,780.99 |
2 |
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JS 97 (7/2015): I believe that the 2005 DP is the best since 2002, which remains the best recent vintage and is probably only eclipsed by the amazing 100-point 1996. The 2005 is a full-bodied DP with so much richness and loads of ripe fruit such as pineapple and papaya. It has a wonderful, creamy texture and a long and intense finish. It’s a Champagne that fully satisfies but at the same time challenges you with its strength, depth and persistence on the palate.
VM 94 (11/2015): The 2005 Dom Perignon is a festive way to kick off our 2005 Bordeaux retrospective. Fresh and vibrant, with the classic hints of DP reduction, the 2005 is super-expressive tonight. Although not one of the truly epic Dom Perignons, the 2005 offers lovely energy, while its mid-weight personality makes it an excellent choice for current drinking. The bright, precise style is the perfect complement to David Bouley's hors d'oeuvres. |
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2010 |
Brut Champagne (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,692.97 |
1 |
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| JS 98 (7/2020): A firm and vivid Champagne with a precise, focused palate. Full-bodied and dry. It’s very layered and bright with light pineapple, peach, praline, cooked-apple and stone aromas and flavors. It’s very subtle and focused at the end. Integrated with richness and high acidity. Good depth. Reminds me of the 1995. Very clean. Solid. Lovely to drink already, but will age nicely. |
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| Krug |
1996 |
Brut Champagne (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,561.98 |
1 |
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| VM 98 (10/2014): The 1996 Vintage is magnificent. A towering, explosive Champagne, the 1996 delivers the house’s signature breadth in a full-bodied, structured Champagne with enough pure density and acidity to age well for decades. |
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| Philipponnat |
2006 |
Clos des Goisses Brut Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$864.98 |
2 |
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| VM 96 (8/2016): The 2006 Clos des Goisses is stellar, but it is also going to need quite a bit of time to come into its own. Powerful and ample in the best of the Goisses style, the 2006 hits the palate with serious intensity. Orchard fruits, lemon oil, white flowers and almonds are some of the many notes that open up in the glass, but, as is often the case with young Goisses, it is the wine's gravitas that is front and center. Even with all of its overtness, though, the 2006 retains striking, crystalline purity. I imagine the 2006 will reward Champagne lovers with many decades of truly exceptional drinking. The only thing the 2006 needs is time. The question is: How much? |
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| Pol Roger |
2006 |
Cuvee Winston Churchill Champagne (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,335.98 |
2 |
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| BH 92 (10/2019): (the varietals are a "proprietary secret" with fruit from old vines in grand cru vineyards.) I had originally reviewed this in 2017 and it showed better than this last bottle that seemed to be going through a bit of an awkward stage. A whiff of petrol can be found on the ripe aromas of baked apple, brioche and soft floral scents. The exceptionally rich yet powerful flavors possess an almost creamy mid-palate mouth feel despite the presence of a firm supporting effervescence that also shapes the sappy but only moderately complex and somewhat compact finale. I would suggest holding it for another 5-ish years as my sense is that even more complexity is almost certain to develop and this mildly awkward phase will likely have passed. Drink 2024+. |
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|
2008 |
Cuvee Winston Churchill Champagne (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,816.98 |
3 |
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WA 97 (4/2019): Released in October of last year, Pol Roger's 2008 Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill is showing brilliantly, unfurling in the glass with a complex bouquet of waxy citrus rind, dried white flowers, freshly baked bread, iodine and honeyed yellow apple. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, powerful and vinous, with a deep and multidimensional core, broad structural shoulders and considerable concentration, girdled by tangy acids and displaying a youthfully frothy but incipiently fine mousse. The finish is long and intense. This is a terrific rendition of this reliably superb cuvee and well worth seeking out.
JS 97 (7/2019): I love the balance between weight and agility in this wine with a dense and compact palate. Yet, there’s brightness and creaminess that melts into the glass. Lots of brioche, pie crust and strawberry tart. Serious balancing act here. Drinkable, but better with a few years of age.
VM 95+ (11/2018): The 2008 Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill is one of the most reticent and tightly wound wines of the vintage. To be sure, all the 2008s offer tremendous brightness and punch, but most are also a bit more approachable in the early going. The 2008 Churchill is totally closed in on itself at present. Vibrant floral, citrus and saline notes add an attractive upper register to a core of persistent Pinot-inflected fruit as the wine gradually opens up. The 2008 is a total knock-out, but I wouldn't dream of touching a bottle anytime soon. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2015 |
Cuvee Winston Churchill Champagne (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,334.99 |
1 |
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VM 95 (5/2023): The 2015 Brut Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill shows off the savory side of the vintage to great effect. Hints of dried pear, sage, mint, dried flowers, lemon oil and chamomile open gradually in this mid-weight, lithe edition of Pol Roger's tête de cuvée. The 2015 unfolds nicely with time in the glass, but I wouldn't think of opening a bottle anytime soon. Readers will find a nervy Winston Churchill marked by notable freshness and vigor more than size. This is a fine effort in a vintage that has proven to be far trickier than most observers originally envisioned. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged September 2022. Antonio Galloni.
JD 95 (11/2023): Coming from only Grand Cru villages of Montagne de Reims and always boasting a large proportion of Pinot Noir in the cuvée, the 2015 Champagne Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill Brut displays a medium straw color and has a stunning nose that’s highly aromatic with toasted croissant, kirsch, and orange peel. With a noble structure and feel to the wine, it’s full-bodied with broad shoulders but has remarkable balance for this hot vintage. The mouthfeel is exceptional and long, with vibrant acidity, a rounded and elegant mousse, a chalky texture, and a mouthwatering finish. Given the vintage, it’s showing a more approachable side already, although it should have significant longevity ahead of it. In its youth, it’s more approachable than the 2013, and I would perhaps drink some of these now and then wait to be surprised as it holds on and likely has a wide drinking window. Drink 2024-2040. 7 grams per liter of dosage. |
|
| Louis Roederer |
2002 |
Cristal Rose Champagne (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,192.99 |
1 |
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| Roses de Jeanne (Cedric Bouchard) |
2017 |
Blanc de Noirs Val Vilaine Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,427.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Taittinger |
2008 |
Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,335.98 |
32 |
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JS 99 (7/2019): A slightly more luxurious nature to the 2008 than the great 2007. Full-bodied with a lovely framework of acidity and dry fruit, such as apples, pears and peaches. Opulent. Dense and muscular. Yet, it’s balanced and harmonious. Line of acidity at the end. One for the cellar. Release in 2020. Drink or hold.
VM 98+ (8/2020): Taittinger’s 2008 Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne is simply breathtaking. I have tasted it many times over the years in various trial disgorgements and it has never been anything less than compelling. The final, finished wine captures all of that potential. Bright, focused and wonderfully deep, Comtes is a fabulous example of a vintage that expresses so much energy but with real fruit intensity, the signatures that distinguish it from other vintages (1996 comes to mind) that were similarly taut, but more austere in the early going. Although the 2008 impresses right out of the gate, it only really starts to open up with several hours of air. The 2008 Comtes represents the purest essence of the Côtes des Blancs in a great, historic vintage. Readers who can find the 2008 should not hesitate, as it is a truly brilliant epic Champagne that no one who loves the very best in Champagne will want to be without. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98 (9/2020): Taittinger's 2008 Brut Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne is being released this year, and it will be worth a special effort to track down. I wrote in August 2019 that this is the finest Comtes de Champagne since the brilliant 2002, and this tasting confirmed that. Offering up a deep and complex bouquet of citrus oil, crisp orchard fruit, warm brioche, crushed chalk, blanched almonds and smoke, it's full-bodied and incisive, with excellent concentration, racy acids and a long, searingly chalky finish. While this is already immensely impressive out of the gates, this 2008 is clearly built for the long haul, and three decades' longevity won't be a challenge. |
|
| Vilmart et Cie |
2008 |
Coeur de Cuvee Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,495.98 |
7 |
|
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| | Germany |
| Egon Muller |
2018 |
Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,057.99 |
1 |
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| |
WA 92+ (8/2019): The 2018 Scharzhofberger Kabinett (AP #2) is brilliant, clear and coolish on the nose, with cold, wet and clayey yet also crunchy slate aromas and bright fruit. Lush and precise, with lingering salinity and mineral expression, this is a complex and structured Scharzhofberger Kabinett with great aging potential. Tasted in June 2019.
VM 92 (7/2020): White currant and white peach are pungently wreathed in green herbs for stimulating aromatic display, and are joined on a firm palate by incisive, invigorating nips of cress and radish. The finish is mouth-shaking in its bright conveyance of energy, not to mention consummately refreshing and implacably stony. David Schildknecht. |
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|
2018 |
Scharzhofberger Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,213.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Italy |
| Piero Antinori |
2007 |
Tignanello (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,875.99 |
1 |
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| |
WA 95 (10/2010): Antinori’s 2007 Tignanello is wonderfully ripe and seductive in its dark cherries, flowers, spices, tobacco, sage, cedar, mint and minerals. This is as opulent a Tignanello as I have ever tasted but there is just enough acidity and structure from the Sangiovese to keep things from going over the top. The wine’s richness and warmth are such that in a blind tasting I mistook the 2007 Tignanello for a wine from Maremma! The dense, muscular fruit follows through to an impeccable finish with no hard edges and impossibly fine, silky tannins. Simply put, the 2007 is a magnificent Tignanello. The 2007 Tignanello is 80% Sangiovese aged in 300-liter French oak barrels (1/3 new), 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, both aged in 100% new 225-liter French oak barriques. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2027.
VM 91 (10/2010): Bright, medium ruby-red. Musky black fruits, cedar, graphite and minerals on the cabernet-dominated nose. Broad and lush in the mouth, conveying a full-bodied, weighty impression but also plenty of energy to the flavors of blackcurrant, tobacco and cedar. Finishes very long and smooth, with extremely fine-grained tannins. Though this is a very refined and highly successful version of Tignanello, I found it to be a bit more international and soft in style than the 2006 and 2004 versions, which I like better. |
|
|
2021 |
Tignanello (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,036.99 |
8 |
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| |
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| Castelgiocondo (Frescobaldi) |
2015 |
Brunello di Montalcino (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$405.99 |
3 |
|
| |
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| Ceretto |
2017 |
Barolo Brunate (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$549.99 |
29 |
|
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|
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2017 |
Barolo Prapo (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$595.99 |
20 |
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| |
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| Elvio Cogno |
2012 |
Barolo Riserva Vigna Elena (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,695.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Conterno Fantino |
2008 |
Barolo Sori Ginestra (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,592.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 96+ (11/2011): (from vines averaging 30 years of age): Bright, deep red. Ripe, minerally aromas of cherry liqueur, spun sugar, mocha, flowers and sweet oak. Wonderfully fat, sweet, creamy and full, especially in the context of this vintage. Saturates the palate with a wave of raspberry, mocha and truffle flavors. Remarkably showy already but this should be a cellar treasure. Finishes with extremely refined tannins and outstanding length. A baby today, even if its high quality is easy to see. Guido Fantino describes 2008 as "an unbelievable vintage, with a near-perfect vegetative cycle, and perfect day-night temperature differences." Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2008 |
Barolo Vigna del Gris (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$493.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2009 |
Barolo Sori Ginestra (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,115.99 |
3 |
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| |
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|
2010 |
Barolo Vigna del Gris (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,115.99 |
4 |
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|
2011 |
Barolo Sori Ginestra (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,293.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2015): A rush of dark red and black fruit, menthol, mocha, spice, tobacco and cedar flesh out in the 2011 Barolo Sorì Ginestra. Some of the typical darker, more balsamic notes of Ginestra are covered by the pure intensity of the fruit. As always, Ginestra is a wine that is defined by its combination of expressive aromatics, rich fruit and incisive tannins. In 2011 readers should expect a Ginestra that will drink well a little earlier than normal. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
Barolo Mosconi (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$591.99 |
5 |
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| |
|
|
2013 |
Barolo Sori Ginestra (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$527.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Dal Forno |
2010 |
Valpolicella Superiore Vigneto di Monte Lodoletta (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$978.96 |
2 |
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| |
|
|
2014 |
Valpolicella Superiore Vigneto di Monte Lodoletta (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$543.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Angelo Gaja |
2004 |
Barbaresco (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$963.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (12/2007): Good medium-deep red. Perfumed aromas of raspberry, truffle, flowers and earth, with a whiff of Burgundian funk. Silky and elegant, with a seamless texture to its red fruit and mineral flavors. Finishes long and suave, with fine-grained tannins. Lovely Barbaresco. |
|
|
2007 |
Darmagi (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$896.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Langhe Conteisa (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,842.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Azienda Agricola Falletto di Bruno Giacosa |
2007 |
Barolo Falletto (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,703.97 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95 (10/2011): (white label): Good deep red. Perfumed, complex nose melds plum, red cherry, mocha, tobacco, wild herbs and spices. Sweet, silky and seamless, with almost painful intensity to its fruit if not yet as complex in the mouth as on the nose. Healthy acidity accentuates the wine's perfume. Finishes with very suave tannins and Outstanding floral persistence. Said Dante Scaglione: "I thought 2007 in Serralunga would be great from the moment of the harvest."
WA 94+ (2/2011): The 2007 Barolo Falletto is an overachieving wine, even at this high level. The bouquet has a level of delineation, sweetness, inner perfume and nuance generally only found in Giacosa’s Red Label Riservas. The Falletto impresses for the intensity of its dark fruit and superb overall balance. The extroverted personality of the vintage is quite evident, especially as the wine sits in the glass. Menthol, flowers and licorice add the final notes of complexity on the finish. This is an especially racy Barolo from Bruno Giacosa, but the trademark elegance is there. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2032.
JS 94 (11/2010): Dried strawberries, with hints of flowers. Full bodied, with clean fruit and polished tannins. Very fruity. Need a couple of years to soften. Reminds me of the 1997. |
|
|
2018 |
Barolo Falletto (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,342.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Le Macchiole |
2017 |
Scrio IGT (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,360.99 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Mastrojanni |
2016 |
Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$398.99 |
2 |
|
| |
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| Montevertine |
2010 |
Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,238.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Castello di Neive |
2011 |
Barbaresco Santo Stefano Riserva (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$642.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2014 |
Barbaresco Albesani Santo Stefano (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$363.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Casanova di Neri |
2013 |
Pietradonice (1.5 L) |
$175 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Tenuta dell' Ornellaia |
2002 |
Ornellaia (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,717.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 92 (4/2007): The estate’s 2002s show why Tenuta dell’Ornellaia is one of Italy’s premier properties. Those obsessed with points will chase the higher rated 2003s and 2004s, but consumers who buy wines to drink them would do well to consider these 2002s especially given that pricing should be favorable. The 2002s are by no means the equal of the estate’s top wines but they will offer useful drinking while the more important vintages reach maturity. The 2002 Ornellaia (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot) is an astoundingly good wine considering the vintage. A vibrant dark ruby/violet, it offers suggestions of herbs, tobacco, earthiness and dark red fruit with excellent length and notable structure. Although it doesn’t have the concentration or length of the best vintages, it displays terrific overall balance and is undoubtedly a huge overachiever for which General Manager/Agronomist Leonardo Raspini and his entire team deserve much credit. 92/Anticipated maturity: 2008-2017.
VM 89 (10/2006): Medium-deep red. Very intense flavors of dark plum, asphalt and gunflint, with a touch of herbal smokiness. The wine's fine-grained texture and harmonious acids bring its fruit and mineral flavors into focus, but this is a delicate, restrained version of Ornellaia. Finishes smooth and adequately long. Offers excellent potential in the context of the vintage. |
|
|
2009 |
Masseto Proprietary Blend (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,221.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (10/2014): I have always been impressed with the depth and grace to this wine since I tasted it from barrel. It's full-bodied with super integrated tannins and so much intense currant, berry character. A classic quality in this pure merlot wonder; feels like Pomerol from a top year like 2009. Try in 2017.
VM 96 (9/2012): Good full ruby. Superripe, pure aromas of blackberry, cassis, violet, minerals, milk chocolate and exotic spices. Superconcentrated, rich and seamless, offering explosive sweetness but also great verve, thanks to bright acidity that provides wonderful lift and clarity to the blackberry, blueberry and black cherry flavors. Finishes with ultra-suave tannins and a kaleidoscope of violet and Oriental spice flavors. A very great Masseto from a hot year, when I would have expected the merlot to suffer a bit. But unlike in 2003, when it wasn't just hot but dry as well, Masseto's unique microclimate allowed the merlot to avoid major stress in 2009. As good and refined as the Ornellaia is in 2009, I think the Masseto has an extra layer of complexity and depth. Ian d'Agata.
WA 94+ (6/2012): The 2009 Masseto bursts from the glass with dark red berries, blackberries, flowers, licorice and tar. It shows lovely up-front juiciness and expressive inner perfume in a surprisingly accessible style for this wine. Like the Ornellaia, the 2009 Masseto has quite a bit of freshness, although it, too, is medium-bodied in structure. In this vintage the Ornellaia team was especially selective and only used part of the three vineyards that typically go into Masseto. I have been fortunate to taste every vintage of Masseto, most more than once recently. Masseto has a great track record for aging, even in the smallest, least promising of vintages. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. |
|
|
2011 |
Masseto Proprietary Blend (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,063.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Masseto Proprietary Blend (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,261.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93+ (1/2020): The 2014 Masseto continues to develop into a very pretty wine. Silky, medium in body and gracious, the 2014 is all about understatement. Each time I taste it, I uncover a new layer of dimension and nuance I did not see before. I expect the 2014 will develop along the lines of the 2005 and 2002, both wines from very cool, late-ripening years. This is the best showing yet for the 2014. This very challenging cool, rainy growing season is also the longest harvest at Masseto. Picking started on September 5 and wrapped up more than a month later, on October 7. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| E. Pira & Figli (Chiara Boschis) |
2008 |
Barolo Cannubi (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,415.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
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2009 |
Barolo Via Nuova (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,057.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2011 |
Barolo Cannubi (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$723.99 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 94 (3/2015): Cannubi
WA 93 (6/2015): Chiara Boschis has produced an admirable 2011 Barolo Cannubi that offers deep richness and plush layers that you don't often get with this single-vineyard. The vintner has done a terrific job of portraying the muscular vintage against the feminine vineyard site. Barolo Cannubi opens to dark fruit, dry earth and spice. Yet, it remains breezy and airy, nonetheless, with an elegant and buoyant personality. Pretty menthol notes appear on the close. Farming is organic and this wine is aged in barrique and botte grande in equal parts.
JS 93 (4/2015): A silky and fine wine with blueberry, plum and mineral character. Full body, tight palate and a long finish. Better in 2016. |
|
| Guiseppe Quintarelli |
2017 |
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Superiore (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,489.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Le Ragnaie |
2015 |
Brunello di Montalcino (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$517.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
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2019 |
Brunello di Montalcino (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$468.99 |
10 |
|
| |
JD 95 (2/2024): A beautiful cologne lifts from the glass of the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino, which pours a red/orange-tinged color. Aromas of wild cherries, truffles, bittersweet chocolate, and dried orange peel are followed by a medium to full-bodied red with fine, coiled tannins, a linear feel, and refreshing lift all the way through the finish. I love the tertiary notes that come through, and this wine will only improve and gain in complexity over time. Drink 2025-2040. Audrey Frick.
WA 95 (12/2023): The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows delicate aromas of blue flower, redcurrant, cranberry and potting soils. It has all the basic components of a classic Sangiovese. Fruit is sourced from across the estate vineyard holdings ranging from 200 to 600 meters above sea level, or the ceiling of the appellation. Baking spice is delivered to the palate with silky, almost glossy tannins. The mouthfeel is extremely fine. This is a very Burgundian Brunello, with 38,500 bottles made.
VM 93 (12/2023): The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly in the glass, dusty and floral, with depths of dark red fruit and exotic spice. This is silky smooth with medium-bodied textures and vibrant acidity that propels its tart wild berry fruits and mineral tones as rosy inner florals race across the palate. It tapers off with admirable length and concentration. Crunchy tannins frame the experience without slowing its momentum. The 2019 is a gorgeous blend of vintage and house style. Don't miss it. (Drink between 2025-2035). Eric Guido. |
|
| Giuseppe Rinaldi |
2019 |
Langhe Freisa (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,912.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Roagna |
2012 |
Barbaresco Crichet Paje
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,579.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Barbaresco Paje (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$837.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| San Giusto A Rentennano |
2015 |
Percarlo (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$655.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 98 (2/2019): The 2015 Percarlo, the estate's 100% Sangiovese, towers in the glass with huge, dark fruit to match its powerful, vertical structure. Ample and expansive on the palate, with huge textural depth, the 2015 is a total stunner. The darker, more muscular side of Sangiovese emerges in this gorgeous, absolutely stunning wine. Black cherry, lavender, spice and smoke overtones fill out the wine's big frame effortlessly. Proprietor Luca Martini di Cigala aged the 2015 in a combination of cask and tonneau. The 2015 Percarlo is a riveting wine readers will not want to miss. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Percarlo (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,003.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 98 (2/2019): The 2015 Percarlo, the estate's 100% Sangiovese, towers in the glass with huge, dark fruit to match its powerful, vertical structure. Ample and expansive on the palate, with huge textural depth, the 2015 is a total stunner. The darker, more muscular side of Sangiovese emerges in this gorgeous, absolutely stunning wine. Black cherry, lavender, spice and smoke overtones fill out the wine's big frame effortlessly. Proprietor Luca Martini di Cigala aged the 2015 in a combination of cask and tonneau. The 2015 Percarlo is a riveting wine readers will not want to miss. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Case Basse di Gianfranco Soldera |
2012 |
Toscana Sangiovese (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,402.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Sottimano |
2016 |
Barbaresco Fausoni (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,143.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95 (11/2019): The 2016 Barbaresco Fausoni is another superb wine in this lineup of 2016 Barbarescos from the Sottimano family. Bright floral and citrus overtones give the 2016 a vibrant, chiseled feel. Sweet red/purplish berry fruit, blood orange, spice, menthol rose petal and lavender are some of the many notes that flesh out in this super-expressive, mid-weight Barbaresco from Sottimano. Aromatically lifted, dense on the palate and also very structured, the 2016 is a very complete Fausoni. The 2016 finishes with tremendous persistence and a classic sense of austerity that is compelling. Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (6/2019): The Fausoni zone provides sandy and clay soils, and you get more power here than from the other locations. These vines are 35 to 40 years old, and the 2016 Barbaresco Fausoni lets fly those menthol notes that are so characteristic of this vineyard in Neive. Slightly more balsamic in its aromatic profile than the other Barbarescos, this expression of Nebbiolo, sitting sur lies for two years, shows a very different tannic feel in a wine that offers surprising freshness and purity. Those minty Neive notes, its direct and linear nature, plus the very precise and sharply managed tannins make this cru a winner in my book. Some 6,000 bottles were made.
JS 93 (8/2019): Delicious, lifted notes of incense and candlewax envelop dried rose petals and cedar. Tannic and structured, full-bodied and powerful, this remains an elegant Barbaresco with a sheen of iridescent acidity and a buffed, polished texture. Drink from 2021. |
|
| Tenuta San Guido |
2008 |
Sassicaia (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,384.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (4/2017): The 2008 Bolgheri Sassicaia is a wine without a winemaker. The last vintage made by Giacomo Tachis was 2007 and incoming enologist Graziana Grassini claims 2009 as her first vintage. Within the context of this retrospective, the 2008 vintage opens a new chapter, because it is the first wine to show evident tertiary definition and complexity. In fact, the wine performs beautifully with an exalted performance and ethereal aromas. They include cassis, wild berry, crushed mineral, licorice, petrol and grilled herb. This wine is really coming together now and is entering a very exciting moment in its drinking life. It boasts finesse, elegance and grace. Yet, it also shows unmistakable richness and structure that gives the wine an enormous presence in terms of mouthfeel. This was one of the top highlights of the retrospective.
JS 97 (6/2016): This is the best young Sassicaia in years. It's the new 1988, which was great, and sometimes better than the legendary 1985. What incredible aromas here with blueberries, spices, licorice, plums. Graphite too. Subtle and complex. Full and silky with a beautiful texture of fine tannins and an ultra-fine finish. So beautiful now but will be much better in 2015. Owner Niccolo Incisa della Rocchetta says that Sassicaia is always great in years that end with eight: 1958, 1968, 1978, 1988, 1998, and 2008.
VM 96 (8/2011): The 2008 Sassicaia is a rich, deep wine imbued with notable class in its black cherries, plums, grilled herbs, minerals and smoke. The 2008 is a decidedly buttoned-up, firm Sassicaia that is currently holding back much of its potential, unlike the 2006 and 2007, both of which were far more obvious wines. Readers who can afford to wait will be treated to a sublime wine once this settles down in bottle. Muscular, firm tannins frame the exquisite finish in this dark, implosive Sassicaia. The 2008 Sassicaia is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. The wine spent 24 months in French oak barrels. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2012 |
Guidalberto (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$837.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Other France |
| Thibault Liger-Belair |
2013 |
Moulin a Vent Les Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$291.99 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Maison Philippe Pacalet |
2017 |
Moulin a Vent (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$896.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Other White |
| Nyetimber |
2013 |
Tillington Single Vyd. Sparkling Wine (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$694.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Ch. d' Ampuis (Guigal) |
2012 |
Cote Rotie (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,108.97 |
1 |
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| |
| WA 95-96 (12/2015): A wine that will be in bottle by the time you read this, the 2012 Cote Rotie Chateau d’Ampuis (it always incorporates 7% Viognier) will check in behind the sensational 2009 and 2010, but should be on par with the 2005 and 2003. Cassis, licorice, smoked meats, graphite and peppery spice all emerge from this beautifully concentrated, full-bodied, seamless Cote Rotie that has building, ripe tannin, terrific purity and a blockbuster finish. It will have 20-25 years of longevity. |
|
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2009 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$804.99 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 96 (9/2011): The 2009 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape had just been bottled at the time of the tasting but you wouldn’t know it by tasting it. A blend of 30% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and 20% assorted varieties, the wine delivers a superb aromatic display of kirsch and black cherry-like fruits to go with a solid dose of underlying meat, truffle, earth, and leather. Full-bodied and gorgeously concentrated through the middle, with fleshy, ripe fruit, good acidity, and an abundance of structure, this will ideally be left alone for 7-8 years and then consumed over the following two decades.
WA 94 (10/2011): The 2009 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape is reminiscent of their brilliant 1985. It will be one of the rare Beaucastels that is drinkable upon release. Made from this estate’s classic blend, it possesses soft tannins as well as a silky, open-knit seductiveness, a dense plum/purple color and a beautiful perfume of smoky Provencal herbs intermixed with grilled steak juices, garrigue, kirsch and blue as well as black fruits. The wine is full-bodied, unctuously textured, and silky smooth (the latter characteristic being somewhat atypical for a young Beaucastel). If it performs like the 1985, it will drink well young and continue to do so for 25 or more years.
VM 93 (1/2012): (30% each of grenache and mourvedre and 10% each of counoise and syrah, with the balance spread across the other nine permitted varieties): Bright ruby. Perfumed, expressive aromas of red and dark berry preserves, smoky herbs and lavender, with a touch of licorice adding depth. Fleshy and supple in texture, offering intense black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors lifted by a spicy quality. Shows the richness of the vintage but carries no excess fat. The finish lingers with impressive tenacity and echoes the floral and smoke notes. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Patrick et Christophe Bonnefond |
2016 |
Cote Rotie Les Rochains (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,946.99 |
1 |
|
| |
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| M. Chapoutier |
2010 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$300.99 |
1 |
|
| |
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|
2013 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$476.99 |
1 |
|
| |
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|
2017 |
Ermitage Les Greffieux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,188.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2019): More blackcurrants, black olives, garrigue, and smoke game notes emerge from the 2017 Ermitage Les Greffieux, one of the more opulent, seductive and sexy Hermitage in the lineup. Full-bodied, powerful, and structured, it has a smoking good mid-palate, beautiful tannins, and a great finish. There are just 350 cases produced, but it’s a stunning Hermitage to drink over the coming 25-30 years. |
|
| Dom. de la Charbonniere |
2012 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$613.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Clos des Papes |
2020 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$528.97 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96 (6/2023): Made with the usual blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, Cinsaut and other permitted varieties, the 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape checks in at 15.5% alcohol. It bursts with pungent aromas of red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, black plum, thyme, black pepper and is distinctively spicy. Full-bodied and expressive, wrapped in an intricate web of velvety tannins and balanced by lively acids, it is a majestic Clos des Papes. (Drink between 2025-2045). Nicholas Greinacher.
JD 96 (11/2022): The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape showed brilliantly and is certainly one of the stars in the vintage. Based on 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, and the rest Syrah and other permitted varieties, it shines for its elegance and purity, offering a wonderful core of red and black fruits, medium to full body, silky, incredibly polished tannins, flawless balance, and already complex notes of flowers, sappy garrigue, Provençal spice. It has the estate's incredible ability to bring wonderful intensity and richness while staying graceful and seamless. It reminds me slightly of the 2012, possibly the 2006, and while it already offers pleasure, it will evolve for 20+ years in cold cellars. (Drink between 2022-2044).
WA 96-98 (5/2022): Proprietor Paul-Vincent Avril expects to bottle 100,000 bottles of something approximating this "final blend," tasted out of foudre. A blend of 55% Grenache, 35% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah and other permitted varieties, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape looked exceptional on this day, offering up scents of framboise and kirsch alongside dried flowers and Asian spices. Full-bodied yet weightless, silky and long, this is special stuff, complex and balanced. |
|
| Dom. de Colombier |
2021 |
Crozes Hermitage Cuvee Gaby (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$269.99 |
1 |
|
| |
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| Ch. de St. Cosme |
2018 |
Gigondas Hominis Fides (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,281.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Yves Gangloff |
2022 |
Cote Rotie La Barbarine (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,699.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Jean Michel Gerin |
2016 |
Cote Rotie Champin Le Seigneur (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,001.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Les Pallieres |
2016 |
Gigondas Les Racines (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$633.99 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Vincent Paris |
2016 |
Cornas Granit 30 (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$323.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 92-94 (6/2018): (no new oak) Opaque ruby. Potent, mineral-accented dark berry scents are complicated by floral oil and peppery spice nuances. Smooth and seamless on the palate, offering gently sweet black raspberry, blueberry and violet pastille flavors that become livelier with air. Sappy and open-knit, closing with solid thrust, silky, even tannins and strong persistence. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2017 |
Cornas Granit 30 (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$269.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 91-93 (12/2018): The 2017 Cornas Granit 30 shows a fresher, elegant, polished style as well as perfumed notes of black raspberries, crème de cassis, crushed violets, and hints of bouquet garni. Floral, elegant, and medium-bodied, it's just a pretty, elegant, juicy wine that's going to benefit from short-term cellaring and drink nicely for a decade. |
|
|
2018 |
Cornas Granit 30 (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$269.99 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 93 (4/2020): Opaque ruby. Fresh blackberry and cherry scents, along with suggestions of baking spices, olive and pungent flowers. Appealingly sweet black and blue fruit flavors gain energy and spiciness with air while a smoky mineral element adds back-end cut. Even tannins add gentle grip to an impressively long, floral-tinged finish that leaves a spicy note behind.
JD 92-94 (12/2019): Moving to the Cornas releases, the 2018 Cornas Granit 30 comes from slightly younger vines and vineyards further down on the slope, closer to the village. Completely destemmed and brought up in used barrels, it offers a complex bouquet of blue fruits, lavender, violets, and sweet incense as well as a medium to full-bodied, rounded, sexy style on the palate that carries lots of sweet fruit that almost hides sound underlying structure. |
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|
2020 |
Cornas Granit 30 (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$280.99 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 93-95 (2/2022): Starting with what could be considered the entry level cuvée, the 2020 Cornas Granit 30 comes from further down the slope, from vines closer to the village. That's obviously not a bad thing, since this plump, full-bodied, beautifully textured Cornas has remarkable purity and elegance as well as richness. Blackberries, blueberries, subtle smoke, graphite, and violets all emerge from the glass, and it has a seamless, incredibly elegant texture.
VM 93 (12/2022): Dark violet color. Dark berry preserve, licorice, olive and exotic spice aromas, with a hint of espresso in the background. Sappy and broad on the palate, offering spice-tinged cherry-cola, blueberry and candied violet flavors with a spicy snap of black pepper. The floral note carries through a very long, dark fruit-driven finish, where gently chewy tannins add shape and closing grip. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Dom. du Pegau |
2019 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$795.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 95 (2/2022): This youthful Chateauneuf has a very complex nose of graphite, raw meat and lilies. With aeration the black-cherry note steadily grows in intensity. Bold, leathery and earthy palate with fine tannins that build steadily on at the extremely long and straight mineral finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2024.
WA 95-97 (5/2022): The 2019 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée looks set to rival the best examples of this bottling. Made up of approximately 80% Grenache, with 6% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre and smaller amounts of other permitted varieties, it's impressively complex on the nose, with scents of black cherries, blackberries and black olives, plus mysterious wafts of violets and garrigue. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, it finishes long and velvety, a sure-fire bet for cellaring. |
|
|
2020 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$457.99 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 92-94 (11/2021): The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Réservée shows the fresher, more elegant style of the vintage and is certainly a classic Pégau. Lots of red, blue, and black fruits, notes of ground pepper and violets, firm tannins, and good acidity all define this outstanding 2020 barrel sample. |
|
| Rene Rostaing |
2016 |
Cote Rotie Ampodium (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$436.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91-93 (6/2018): Bright violet. Expressive black and blue fruit, floral pastille and peppery spice aromas display a bright mineral quality and a suggestion of woodsmoke. Intense blueberry and bitter cherry flavors show excellent clarity and spicy lift, picking up star anise and cola nuances on the back half. Delivers a serious punch of dark fruit flavor but comes off surprisingly lithe, and finishes with smooth tannins and strong tenacity. Josh Raynolds.
JD 91-93 (1/2018): Moving to the 2016s from barrel, this late vintage wasn’t completely brought in until the middle of October. The 2016 Côte Rôtie Ampodium has the purity and elegance that’s the hallmark of the vintage as well as ripe berry fruits, violets, and pepper. It’s a charming, forward 2016 that’s going to drink nicely right out of the gate.
WA 91-93 (12/2017): I tasted from a barrel that Rostaing said represented something "close to the final blend" of the 2016 Cote Rotie Ampodium. This medium-bodied wine features classic notes of violets, spice and raspberries and has ample flesh covering its silky, tea-like backbone of ripe tannins. It should drink well young. |
|
|
2018 |
Cote Rotie Ampodium (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$471.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Roger Sabon |
2012 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$666.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$686.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (10/2014): The 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Reserve is knockout stuff. Full-bodied, textured and yet still elegant and finesse-oriented, it gives up tons of ground pepper, spice, new leather and black cherry nuances. Made from 80% Grenache and 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, it has excellent concentration, mouth-filling levels of fruit and a big finish. Drink this beauty over the coming decade.
VM 92 (2/2015): Inky ruby. Sexy, high-pitched aromas of fresh red berries, potpourri and star anise show a hint of smokiness. Silky and expansive on the palate, offering intense raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a strong suggestion of candied rose. Supple tannins meld smoothly with the wine's fruit on the incisive finish, which hangs on with very good tenacity and echoing floral character. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2012 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$696.99 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 93 (10/2014): The 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Reserve is knockout stuff. Full-bodied, textured and yet still elegant and finesse-oriented, it gives up tons of ground pepper, spice, new leather and black cherry nuances. Made from 80% Grenache and 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, it has excellent concentration, mouth-filling levels of fruit and a big finish. Drink this beauty over the coming decade.
VM 92 (2/2015): Inky ruby. Sexy, high-pitched aromas of fresh red berries, potpourri and star anise show a hint of smokiness. Silky and expansive on the palate, offering intense raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a strong suggestion of candied rose. Supple tannins meld smoothly with the wine's fruit on the incisive finish, which hangs on with very good tenacity and echoing floral character. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Clos Saint Jean |
2017 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Deus Ex Machina (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$978.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98 (8/2019): The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Deus-Ex Machina (60/40 Grenache and Mourvèdre) shows more classic Mourvèdre notes, with blackcurrants, Asian spices, crushed violets, cured meats, and graphite all giving way to a power packed, opulent, hedonistic 2017 that does everything right. Incredible depth of fruit, building tannins, no hard edges, and a finish to die for are all part of the package.
WA 98 (8/2019): With its more discreet oak and layers of complexity, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Deus Ex Machina is my favorite release here this year. Layers of dried spices accent raspberries and cherries in this full-bodied, rich and velvety wine. It's more complex and complete than either the Combe des Fous or the Sancto Santorum, longer on the finish and supremely elegant. |
|
| | Rhone White |
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2013 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,239.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2014): Similar in color to the classic white, the 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes is deeper and richer, with more viscosity, glycerin and minerality. Loaded with notes of buttered citrus, flowers, orange marmalade and crushed-rock nuances, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied power, juicy, lively acidity and terrific length. Like the classic white, this does not go through malolactic fermentation, but sees slightly more oak (some new) in its elevage, which always gives it slightly more richness, as well as hints of vanilla in its youth. It’s unquestionably the greatest white wine coming from the Southern Rhône, and while I prefer to drink it in its first 4-6 years, it can evolve for decades.
VM 93 (4/2016): (aged in a 50/50 blend of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels for eight months): Light, vivid gold. Intensely perfumed aromas of poached pear, orange, candied fig and jasmine slowly acquire a hint of fennel. Smooth, sappy and expansive on the palate, offering rich, mineral-laced orchard fruit and pit fruit flavors that show a suave blend of richness and energy. Finishes very long and sappy, displaying excellent clarity and building mineral and floral notes. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| M. Chapoutier |
2023 |
Ermitage Blanc Le Meal (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,319.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| | Spain |
| Bodegas Aalto |
2020 |
Ribera del Duero P.S. (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$768.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Alion |
2012 |
Ribera del Duero (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$703.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2015): 2012 has to be one of the best recent vintages of Alión. This 2012 Alión is pure Tempranillo from vineyards averaging 25 to 30 years of age, harvested at the end of September and matured for 14 months in new French oak barrels. The nose is much more elegant than the Pintia from Toro (I tasted them together), still very fresh and primary but with a special brightness of fruit, shiny cherries, raspberries, something effervescent, open and somehow exuberant. The palate is quite round, much more polished, with some notes of dark chocolate, some subtle volatility, elegant, fresh and long. It has the balance and stuffing to develop nicely in bottle. Superb balance, Ribera character, clean, modern classic. 280,000 bottles were produced. |
|
| R. Lopez de Heredia |
2012 |
Vina Bosconia Rioja Reserva (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$421.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2013 |
Vina Tondonia Blanco Reserva (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,327.99 |
1 |
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| |
VM 96 (4/2024): The 2013 Blanco Reserva Viña Tondonia is a blend of 90% Viura and 10% Malvasía Riojana from the Tondonia vineyard, situated along the Ebro River. Aged for six years in oak barrels and an additional two years in the bottle, this wine defies expectations of youth with its bright amber hue. Subtle aromas of honey, dried apricot, tangerine peel and faint oak greet the senses. Initially rich and overwhelming, it evolves into a gently chalky flow with a refreshing touch on the palate. This complex white wine, with its long-lasting finish and final hint of hazelnut, stands for its aging potential like Rioja whites of old. Joaquin Hidalgo.
WA 94 (2/2024): We talked a lot about the challenging 2013, but they defended the wines. "There was a big crop, and it was not easy, but it was possible to make great wines." The 2013 Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva has nutty aromas, perhaps showing a little more development, but according to Mercedes López de Heredia, "[With] the old vines with the right rootstock, in the right soils, you can have more or less quality, but you're not going to have a disaster." It's a wine that has to have aging potential, and they need to start with good grapes, so they harvested earlier, as their grapes were riper because they had lowered their yields. They took risks, and I think they got it right. The palate has intense and pungent flavors, a velvety mouthfeel and a vibrant core of acidity, with a fine thread and a chalky finish. But it's a slightly weaker year. |
|
| Vega Sicilia |
2009 |
Unico Ribera del Duero (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,307.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (1/2019): I tasted a bottle of the 2009 Único blind and was taken by the freshness, the red fruit notes and the Burgundian-like characteristics of this vintage, which on paper was quite warm and dry. I also tasted the 2009 Valbuena, which is always more approachable, and was blown away by its aromatics. With time in the glass the Único opened up and got closer to the character of Valbuena but with more depth and clout, while showing extremely elegant. I tasted it again in the context of all the wines from the group, and it delivered all that I saw when I tasted it blind. It takes some time to unfurl its aromatic palette, and it feels young and somewhat undeveloped, younger than it is. It has a touch that made me think of the old vintages of Único on the nose but with very polished tannins and a soft mouthfeel that provides elegance. This is a wine that ages for no less than ten years before it's released. 2009 seems like a great vintage for Vega Sicilia, much better than what I anticipated. It should develop nicely in bottle. 74,274 bottles, 3,390 magnums, 209 double magnums and 22 imperials were produced. It has been in bottle since June 2015.
JS 98 (12/2018): The elevage is complex, building from smaller barrels to larger barrels over a period of six years, finishing in larger vats. Then four years in bottle. Non-sequential releasing with the 2005 and 2006 being released after the 2007 and 2008. This 2009 has good ripeness and deep fruit-presence on the nose with rich red and dark plums, subtly earthy spice, cedar and fresh tobacco. There’s terrific concentration on the palate and very ripe dark-plum, blueberry and cherry flavors. The tannins are fresh, very long and carry flavors deep. Natural freshness and effortless power, too — a hallmark of Unico! Very open-knit and approachable now, this will age for two decades easily, and then some more. |
|
| | USA Red |
| Alban Vineyards |
2003 |
Lorraine Alban Estate Syrah Torn, Bin-Soiled Label |
$200 |
1 |
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| |
WA 99 (8/2006): The limited production, well-structured, black/purple-tinged 2003 Syrah Lorraine Vineyard reveals oak along with tremendous amounts of creme de cassis-like characteristics. Dense, full-bodied, and rich with superb acidity, high, but well-integrated tannin, and a seamless finish that lasts over 60 seconds, this stunning effort is the finest Lorraine Syrah I have tasted.
VM 92-94 (7/2005): (16.5% alcohol) Saturated black ruby. Wonderfully sweet, nuanced nose combines red raspberry, gunflint, dark chocolate and iodine; a bit redder in character and more volcanic than the Reva. Thick and powerful in the mouth, with a penetrating sweetness of fruit and a superrich dark chocolateflavor. The pHs in 2003 were the highest ever registered at this estate, Alban notes, yet this wine is still a reasonable 3.7. "We have never added acid," Alban told me. "Our problem on these soils is getting the acids to go down." The yield here was just a ton and a half of fruit per acre. |
|
|
2003 |
Reva Alban Estate Syrah Heavily Torn Label |
$139 |
1 |
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WA 98 (8/2006): The sensational 2003 Syrah Reva Vineyard may be the finest example of this cuvee Alban has yet produced. Nearly endless depth as well as an extraordinarily flamboyant bouquet of blackberries, truffles, acacia flowers, and sweet tar emerge from this broad, opulent, full-bodied, incredibly rich Syrah. It is a stunning wine to drink over the next 12-15 years.
JD 97 (12/2011): An absolutely stunning, massive wine, the 2003 Alban Vineyards Syrah Reva is completely opaque purple in color and delivers unbelievably intense, rich aromatics of blackberry liqueur, smoked meat, asphalt, and spice cake on the nose. Full-bodied and powerful on the palate, with glass coating fruit and texture, but also brilliant balance, plenty of freshness, and a very long, decadent finish, this phenomenal wine has yet to hit full maturity, and given the wealth of fruit and balance, it should continue to shine for at least another decade.
VM 92-93 (8/2005): Good deep ruby. Knockout syrah aromas of black raspberry, bacon fat, asphalt, gunflint and smoked meat. Extraordinarily sweet and silky, with flamboyantly ripeflavors of black raspberry and smoked meat. This too is quite high in alcohol at 15.8% but has the material to carry it off. Finishes with fully ripe tannins. |
|
| Beau Vigne |
2013 |
Juliet Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 96 (12/2015): A blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Juliet has a similar style but seems even more opaque purple, with loads of blueberry and blackberry fruit, some white flowers, licorice, baking spices and a touch of asphalt. It has a long, full-bodied, massively rich mouthfeel and finish, without any heaviness. It’s a beauty to drink over the next quarter century as well. |
|
| Beaux Freres |
2017 |
The Beaux Freres Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$99 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 94-95 (6/2019): Deep red. High-pitched cherry, black raspberry and rose scents are complemented by hints of succulent herbs, exotic spices and musky flowers. Shows impressive energy and focus on the palate, offering juicy dark berry, bitter cherry and rose pastille flavors given a spicy edge by a hint of star anise. Closes smooth, appealingly sweet and very long, with fine-grained tannins adding framework and gentle grip. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2017 |
Sequitur Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$89 |
2 |
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| |
|
| Bond Estates (Harlan) |
2019 |
Matriarch Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-Bottle OWC |
$675 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 94 (2/2023): I loved the 2019 Matriarch, and this full-bodied, round, seamless beauty hits all the right spots. Cassis, graphite, toasted spice, and beautifully integrated oak all define the aromatics, and it has wonderful tannins, a pure, silky, elegant mouthfeel, and a great finish. It’s going to evolve for 15+ years.
WA 94 (3/2023): Assembled from barrels that don't make it into Bond's single-vineyard offerings, the 2019 Matriarch is an excellent wine in its own right. Perhaps a bit more cedary than the other Bond wines, it deftly marries piney, herbal notes with ripe cherries on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is intense but supple, with a slightly grainy texture on the lingering finish.
VM 93 (2/2023): The 2019 Matriarch is gorgeous. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, licorice and leather infuse the 2019 with striking depth. Medium in body and resonant, the 2019 is so wonderfully expressive today. All the elements meld together nicely here. Best of all, the 2019 will drink well upon release. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2002 |
Maya Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-bottle OWC |
$1,650 |
1 |
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| |
WA 100 (6/2012): As stunning as this basic Cabernet Sauvignon is, the 2002 Maya, a proprietary blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Cabernet Franc, is pure perfection. It boasts an inky purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of incense, black fruits, charcoal and forest floor. Full-bodied, with monumental intensity, a multidimensional texture/mouthfeel, and a stunning finish, this beauty reveals the brilliant quality of the Dalla Valle Cabernet Franc plantings meshed with their powerful Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+.
VM 95 (6/2014): Rich, ripe and explosive, the 2002 Maya emerges from the glass with layers of dark, voluptuous fruit. There is plenty going on in the glass, although today the 2002 isn't as expressive as it was when I last tasted it, about two years ago. Dark raspberry jam, cloves, mint and flowers are layered into the finish with substantial weight and silkiness. This is one of the great vintages of Maya and as it turns out the last Maya made until 2005.
VM 92+ (6/2005): (a 55/45 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc) Good ruby-red. Blueberry, licorice, violet and leather on the perfumed nose. Supple on entry, then sweeter, broader and lusher than the 2002 cabernet, with lovely depth of flavor. Bright and nicely delineated. Finishes with huge, building, horizontal tannins that dust the palate and front teeth and are distinctly finer than those of the basic cabernet bottling, which seems a bit green and dry by comparison. This wine needs several years of patience and should be long-lived. |
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|
2005 |
Maya Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-bottle OWC |
$1,200 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2007): The 2005 Maya Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc. Many experienced observers believe that the Cabernet Franc grown in the red soils of Dalla Valle’s vineyards is the finest in California, and this cuvee has always reflected that. The dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 reveals a lovely, sweet perfume of scorched earth, black and red fruits, truffles, and a whiff of pain grille. The flavor profile possesses notions of chocolate and smoky oak along with rich, layered fruit, an enticing texture, and a long finish. This Outstanding red wine will age well for 20-25 years. It is one of the most graceful, approachable Mayas made recently.
VM 93+ (6/2008): Deep ruby-red. Brooding aromas of bitter cherry, licorice and minerals, with the wine's classic floral perfume in the background. Then lush, sweet and seamless if a bit medicinal and backward today. Conveys an impression of serious thickness without weight. With aeration, the wine's floral character came through. Still a bit youthfully grapey, with the big, broad tannins calling for a good eight to ten years of cellaring. An impressive return for Maya, which was not made in 2003 and 2004. This is the last vintage to include some of the estate's oldest cabernet franc vines, dating back to the mid-'80s. Phylloxera exacerbated by leaf roll virus and oak root fungus has required wholesale replanting of vines here in recent years. Total production of the estate's two red wines in 2005 was just 700 cases, vs. 4,500 in the early '90s. |
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|
2006 |
Maya Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-bottle OWC |
$975 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94+ (12/2009): A blend of two-thirds Cabernet Franc and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2006 Maya reveals an exceptional bouquet of sweet blue and black fruits intermixed with notions of flowers, roasted herbs, and charcoal. Dense, full-bodied, and powerful, with superb richness, complexity, and potential, this is a super example of this Cabernet Franc-dominated wine. Surprisingly approachable now, it should evolve for 15-20+ years.
VM 92 (6/2009): (an 85/15 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc) Good medium ruby. Suave, claret-like nose offers black cherry, bitter chocolate, graphite, violet and cocoa powder. Lush, sweet, fine-grained and pure, with a distinct mineral element contributing energy to the middle palate. Fruity, primary and very stylish wine, finishing with a fine dusting of tannins that make the regular Napa Valley bottling seem a bit tough by comparison. The percentage of cabernet franc was so low, said proprietor Naoko Dalla Valle, because the team thinned the vines too much for fear that the fruit wouldn't get ripe and ultimately harvested a very small crop during one of the estate's latest harvests ever. Dalla Valle's top Maya vintages of the 1990s generally featured about 45% cabernet franc. |
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|
2010 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) 1-magnum OWC |
$500 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (10/2013): The brilliant 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is slightly richer, revealing more smokiness, graphite and creme de cassis notes as well as a dense purple color, a big, masculine, tannic mouthfeel and a full-bodied, rich finish. This majestic Cabernet Sauvignon should age effortlessly for 25-30 years. It possesses slightly more sucrosity and flesh than the 2009, but both of these are brilliant examples of hillside Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Cabernet Franc.
VM 94 (6/2013): (blended with 19% cabernet franc): Bright medium ruby. Sappy, deep aromas of dark raspberry, cassis and graphite. Silky, highly concentrated and seamless, conveying an impression of Outstanding density without weight. Wonderfully suave cabernet with a sappy, building finishing featuring sexy floral lift, noble tannins and terrific energy and length. A beauty, and impeccably balanced already. |
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|
2011 |
Maya Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-bottle OWC |
$837 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (6/2014): One of the wines of this challenging Napa Valley harvest, the 2011 Maya is impressive. Textural beauty is front and center, but it will be at least another few years before the aromas and flavors start to show the full breadth of complexity and nuance that has always been present in barrel. The deep, intense finish is simply dazzling in a magnificent Maya that should drink well for many, many years.
VM 93+ (5/2014): (65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% cabernet franc): Bright ruby-red. Higher-pitched on the nose than the cabernet bottling and tighter today, offering hints of dark berries, violet, minerals and licorice. Then big, rich and mouthfilling, conveying a texture of liquid silk and a powerful impression of the site's red soil. Saline mocha and graphite flavors display terrific definition and underlying spine. Finishes with substantial building, sweet tannins and Outstanding length. Zero impression of underripeness here. This classy, highly concentrated wine may yet merit an even higher score. An exciting 2011. |
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|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$325 |
12 |
|
| |
VM 97 (11/2025): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is in great shape today. Deep, pliant and super expressive, the 2015 is just starting to open. A blast of dark cherry fruit, mocha, licorice and espresso makes a strong opening statement. Still very young, the 2015 will drink well for another decade or more. It's one of the most youthful, vibrant wines of the year. I underestimated this wine and its potential longevity in my original review. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni.
JD 95 (1/2019): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon includes slightly less Cabernet than normal and is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc. It has loads of cassis and black raspberry fruits as well as gorgeous incense, dried violets, vanilla, and flowery spice overtones. About as seamless as it gets, with full body and present yet sweet tannins, it’s a beautiful, elegant wine from this remarkable site sitting above Oakville. (Drink between 2019-2044). |
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|
2017 |
Maya Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$700 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (10/2019): The 2017 Maya is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Cabernet Franc and was bottled one week before I tasted it. Very deep purple-black in color, it opens with profound earthy notions of truffles, damp soil, crushed rocks and tar over a core of Black Forest cake, black raspberries, blueberry compote and aged meat plus touches of wilted roses and unsmoked cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is solidly structured with firm, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness lifting the multilayered blue and black fruits with a long, perfumed finish. Stunning.
JD 97+ (1/2020): The tiny production 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Maya is another thrilling wine. The normal blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc that was brought up in two-thirds new French oak, it offers a full-bodied, concentrated, yet sensationally elegant style as well as fab notes of crème de cassis, chocolate, graphite, and scorched earth. It’s a primordial example of this cuvée that has ripe tannins, a stacked mid-palate, and a great, great finish. Do your best to give bottles 4-6 years of bottle age. (Drink between 2024-2054).
VM 96 (1/2020): The 2017 Maya is not only gorgeous, it also appears to have handled the rigors of the growing season more successfully than the others. Ripe red cherry and plum fruit, blood orange, pomegranate, mint and spice all build as this racy, sumptuous wine shows off its considerable allure. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc are just magic here. (Drink between 2023-2042). Antonio Galloni. |
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| Eyrie Vineyards |
1999 |
Secret Cellar Selection Barrel Reserve Pinot Noir |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Original Vines Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$89 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (6/2019): Light, vivid red. Highly expressive, spice-tinged red fruit, incense and potpourri qualities on the seductively perfumed nose, which is given vivacity by a smoky mineral accent. Sappy, alluringly sweet and precise on the palate, offering lively cherry liqueur, raspberry and five-spice powder flavors, along with a sexy floral nuance. Fine-grained and seamless in style, finishing extremely long and pure, with sneaky power, resonating spiciness and smooth, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds. |
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| Harlan Estate |
2019 |
Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-Bottle OWC |
$4,185 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 99 (2/2023): The 2019 Harlan Estate is supremely elegant. Bright floral accents perk up a core of red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, sage and mint all run through the 2019. Medium in body and gracious, the 2019 is all energy. It's not so much a wine of a vintage, but rather a wine that reflects the personality of a place and style. Time in the glass brings out the wines breath and resonance, yet notable freshness and verve remain. This is one of the more delicate, nuanced wines readers will taste from 2019, a year that generally yielded wines of opulence. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2020 |
Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-Bottle OWC |
$3,150 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95 (12/2023): The 2020 Harlan Estate is one of the very best wines I have tasted from this challenging vintage so far. Dark cherry, plum, cedar, tobacco, chocolate, licorice and dark spice all build in the glass. There is a bit of tension in the tannins, but all the elements are so well-balanced. This a truly eye-opening wine with regards to what was possible in 2020. I am not sure what that Harlan team did, but all I can say is Bravo! Antonio Galloni.
JD 94 (12/2023): The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon showed beautifully, with a deeper purple hue as well as a pure bouquet of cassis, scorched earth, graphite, and violets that has terrific intensity and depth. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has good concentration, a balanced, layered mouthfeel, plenty of tannins, and a great finish. As with the BOND releases, this was harvested early, and they seemed to have escaped any obvious smoke effects. This is a beautifully balanced, impressive 2020 that I would enjoy over the coming two decades. |
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| Hartford Court |
2019 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 94 (7/2021): Readers looking for an incredibly charming, delicious Pinot Noir that’s going to deliver the goods should check out the 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley from Hartford Court. Revealing a translucent ruby/plum color, it has a wonderful nose of spiced red and black fruits, candied violets, orange blossom, and incense. Medium-bodied on the palate, it’s wonderfully balanced, with soft, supple tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. Drink this beauty any time over the coming 5-6 years. (Drink between 2021-2027).
VM 91 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir (Russian River) is a terrific appellation-level offering in this range from Hartford Court. Blue/purplish fruit, cinnamon, licorice and spice all grace this expressive, mid-weight Pinot. Enjoy it over the next decade. (Drink between 2021-2031). Antonio Galloni.
WA 90 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley was aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, 27% new. It delivers vibrant notes of black cherries, kirsch and mulberries with suggestions of garrigue and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of ripe, juicy black and red berry flavors, supported by soft tannins, finishing with a lively red berry kick. |
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| Kosta Browne |
2020 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$79 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (8/2022): The 2020 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is ripe with cherry candy, sweet baking spice, and incense. The palate is fresh and fleshy, with notes of red plum and forest floor. Audrey Frick. |
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|
2020 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$84 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (8/2022): The 2020 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is lifted with cedar, red cherry, and pine. The palate fills with grenadine and orange peel, soft, stony earth, and a silky texture. Drink over the next 7-8 years. Audrey Frick. |
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|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2023): Taking on more richness both visually and aromatically, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is generous with violets, black cherry, and cola spices. Medium to full-bodied, it has ripe, sweet tannins, with notes of black tea, expansive black raspberry fruit, and toasted cedar. It offers good richness and has a classic feel with a long finish. Drink 2024-2034. Audrey Frick. |
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| The Maiden (Harlan) |
2019 |
Proprietary Blend |
$500 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 95 (2/2023): There are roughly 1,000 cases of the 2019 The Maiden, a classy, full-bodied, beautifully textured wine that clearly has some Harlan Estate class and style. Cassis, graphite, integrated oak, and flowers all define the aromatics, and the tannins and purity here are brilliant. It’s a hell of a second wine.
VM 94 (2/2023): The 2019 The Maiden is gorgeous. Creamy, ample and expressive, the Maiden is a terrific introduction to the year. Succulent dark cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, leather, menthol fill out the layers beautifully. Medium in body, with gorgeous up-front fruit and radiance (Drink between 2023-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Marcassin |
2013 |
Marcassin Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$279 |
6 |
|
| |
JD 94 (2/2020): The 2013 Pinot Noir Marcassin Vineyard doesn’t match the 2012, but it still offers a beautiful, complex, layered style that packs plenty of fruit as well as a more Burgundian style. Spiced black cherries, raspberries, strawberries, orange blossom, and flowery incense notes all emerge from the glass, and it’s beautifully balanced, medium to full-bodied, pure, and elegant on the palate. Give it a few years and enjoy over the following decade.
WA 94+ (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Marcassin Vineyard doesn’t have quite the drama, depth of flavor or profound depth of the 2012. This dark plum/ruby-colored wine offers displays crisp acids as well as notes of Chinese black tea and orange rind, and builds incrementally in the mouth to a medium to full-bodied finish. By Marcassin standards, it’s just a brilliant wine rather than a compellingly great one. |
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| Peter Michael Winery |
2019 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$349 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (8/2022): The 2019 Les Pavots is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, and the remainder Petit Verdot. It has unfolding layers of dark minerals, with graphite, boysenberry liqueur, and fresh leather. The palate is expressive of its mountain fruit, with more gripping structure but no harsh edges. This is a remarkable wine to hold a few years and enjoy over the following two decades. Audrey Frick. |
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|
2021 |
Le Caprice Pinot Noir |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 96 (8/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Le Caprice, from the steepest blocks on the property, is fresh and vibrant from start to finish. Crushed rocks, rose petal, mint, lavender and dried herbs all race across the palate. This brilliant, chiseled Pinot is terrific. (Drink between 2025-2036). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96 (7/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Le Caprice pours a deep ruby and offers loads of spiced aromas of woodsy earth, cinnamon, and red cherry. Medium-bodied, with good concentration and ripe fruit that fills the palate with notes of red plum, baking spices, and pine, it’s a clean red with fine tannins, good richness, and purity, and its finish reveals a floral component of roses, ripe wild raspberry, and fresh herbs. Drink 2025-2037. Audrey Frick. |
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2022 |
Clos Du Ciel Pinot Noir |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 96 (7/2025): The 2022 Pinot Noir Clos Du Ciel is magenta with a purple-ish tint in the glass and is enveloping with rich, layered aromas of mint, red plum, wild herbs, and nearly iodine notes. Leaning toward full-bodied, it’s also the most savory through the palate, with rich, ripe tannin, a rounded mouthfeel, and a long finish. It’s highly complex and layered, packed with intensity that continues to unfold rapidly in the glass. It’s going to offer a good deal of longevity and is a more contemplative wine in the range. Drink 2026-2045. Audrey Frick.
VM 96 (1/2024): The 2022 Pinot Noir Clos du Ciel is a tiny bottling of just 266 cases, about half of the normal production. Bold, incisive tannins enshroud a core of black fruit, lavender, spice, menthol, licorice, rose petal and a kiss of new French oak. This brooding, tannic Pinot needs a few years to come together. Today, it is decidedly imposing in feel. Give this time to unwind. (Drink between 2027-2036). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
2021 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 95-97 (3/2023): Winemaker Matt Crafton showed me a sample of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (Montelena didn't pick any red grapes in 2020) that he said represented, "kind of what I think the Cabernet Sauvignon portion will look like." It reveals engaging floral nuances, intense red fruit notes and hints of cedar and vanilla. As yet, it's not quite as opulent as the 2019 but maybe a touch more elegant yet concentrated and boldly flavored. |
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| Mount Eden Vineyards |
2014 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$89 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 96 (4/2024): The 2014 Pinot Noir Estate is a textbook, elegant offering from Mount Eden, although in very limited quantities due to an extremely dry vintage and resultant poor yields. It has a perfumed, alluring nose of dried flowers, orange peel, oolong tea and brick dust. A subtle, refined, precise texture unfolds on the palate, leading to a beautiful, flowing finish of weightless intensity. This shows wonderfully at 10 years old and could be capitalized on now or held for a decade further.
VM 96 (12/2019): One of the unquestioned highlights in this tasting, the 2014 Pinot Noir is brilliant, precise and wonderfully engaging from the first impression. Perhaps most surprisingly of all, the 2014 does not really seem to show any signs of drought. Today, I am quite struck by its freshness, energy and translucence. Put simply, the 2014 is a wine of pure and total class. Two thousand fourteen was the most severe drought year I have ever experienced, including 1976 and 1977. Jeffrey Patterson added. I dropped more crop than ever, as I was not sure how much fruit the vines would ripen. It was uncharted territory. In tasting, though, the 2014 does not come across like a wine from a drought year, which is truly fascinating. (Drink between 2020-2039). Antonio Galloni.
JD 95 (8/2017): Seeing one-third whole clusters and 12 months in barrel, the 2014 Pinot Noir Estate has a subtle, nuanced style as well as terrific notes of dried strawberries, red currants, spice-box and forest floor. It's elegant, seamless and silky on the palate, with fine tannin and impeccable balance. Give it a few years to develop more complexity (although I'd happily drink it today) and it's going to keep for 10-15+ years. Winemaker Jeffrey Patterson makes a classic, old-school, age-worthy style of wine from his vineyard located on the east side of the Santa Cruz Mountains. These wines see longer time in barrel than most, hence these are mostly 2014s and 2013s. This is unquestionably one of the benchmark estates for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in California. (Drink between 2017-2032). |
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|
2016 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$65 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 94 (4/2024): The 2016 Pinot Noir Estate opens with a broad, perfumed and classic nose of dehydrated strawberry, Earl Grey tea, dried herbs and rose petal aromas. The palate is dark and voluptuous, with robust fruit flavors framed by tangy acidity and fine-grained, drying tannins. This fragrant, herbal and savory vintage is a favorite from the modern era at Mount Eden, and I look forward to watching it over the next decade or more.
VM 93+ (12/2019): The 2016 Pinot Noir is especially delicate and perfumed, with lovely red berry, tobacco, cedar and dried flower notes laced throughout. Medium in body, with bright acids, the 2016 is likely to enjoy a long life in the cellar. Yields were down sharply, the result of bad weather in bloom and vines that were exhausted after several years of intense drought conditions. In some ways. the 2016 reminds me of the 2014. The similarities will be even greater if the 2016 gains a bit more volume in aging. (Drink between 2022-2036). Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2017 |
Estate Pinot Noir Nicked, Bin-Soiled Label |
$63 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (9/2020): The 2017 Pinot Noir is a very pretty, open-knit wine. Crushed rose petal, sweet red berry, mint, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco give the 2017 striking aromatic presence. In 2017, the Mount Eden Pinot is a decidedly forward, silky wine that looks like it will offer its best drinking sooner rather than later. The 2017 was done with 33% whole clusters and saw 50% new barrels. (Drink between 2020-2029). Antonio Galloni.
WA 91+ (4/2024): The 2017 Pinot Noir Estate saw the usual fermentation with one-third whole clusters and élevage in 50% new French oak. The nose opens with straightforward red-fruited aromas, gaining woodsy, herbal and dried flower notes over time. The palate follows suit in its monotypic structure, gaining a bit of grip and refreshment on the finish with some coaxing. This is undoubtedly more primed for early consumption rather than a long life in the cellar, although it could gain complexity over the next few years. |
|
|
2017 |
Estate Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$130 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 93 (9/2020): The 2017 Pinot Noir is a very pretty, open-knit wine. Crushed rose petal, sweet red berry, mint, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco give the 2017 striking aromatic presence. In 2017, the Mount Eden Pinot is a decidedly forward, silky wine that looks like it will offer its best drinking sooner rather than later. The 2017 was done with 33% whole clusters and saw 50% new barrels. (Drink between 2020-2029). Antonio Galloni.
WA 91+ (4/2024): The 2017 Pinot Noir Estate saw the usual fermentation with one-third whole clusters and élevage in 50% new French oak. The nose opens with straightforward red-fruited aromas, gaining woodsy, herbal and dried flower notes over time. The palate follows suit in its monotypic structure, gaining a bit of grip and refreshment on the finish with some coaxing. This is undoubtedly more primed for early consumption rather than a long life in the cellar, although it could gain complexity over the next few years. |
|
|
2019 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$64 |
12 |
|
| |
JD 98 (4/2025): The 2019 Pinot Noir is an outstanding and memorable wine, a tremendously light, bright, and complex reflection of the great site from a great vintage. Lovely aromatics of orange peel, cranberry, and Bing cherry wrap around a supple mid-palate of earthy rose and violet, the tannins unobtrusive and the acidity balanced. Lengthy, the wine takes on different nuances along the mid-palate, showing more forest and black tea, adding a quiet density that stretches to a formidable finish. This wine wows now but should drink well for another 20-25 years. Virginie Boone.
WA 93+ (4/2024): The 2019 Pinot Noir Estate was fermented with 35% whole clusters and aged in 50% new French oak. It has a lively, fragrant, focused nose with potpourri, blood orange, bay laurel and evergreen aromas. The palate is slim and high-toned, supported with structured acidity that softens with aeration. Readers who enjoy Mount Eden's classically proportioned Pinot Noirs might find this a bit angular, but a year or two in the cellar should help it come together. |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2016 |
Numero Dois Touriga Nacional |
$255 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (10/2019): Even better than the 2015, which might have been the greatest expression of Touriga Nacional I’d ever tasted, the 2016 Touriga Nacional Numero Dois Cumulus Vineyard boasts a knockout bouquet of ripe black fruits, charcoal, bouquet garni, and ground pepper. Rich, full-bodied, layered, and straight-up sexy on the palate, don’t miss a chance to try this singular wine. The blend is 83% Touriga Nacional, 9% Mourvèdre, 5% Syrah, and 3% Petite Sirah that was roughly 50% destemmed and spent 33 months in one-third new French oak.
VM 98 (9/2019): The 2016 Número Dois is full of mystery and sheer allure. Mocha, wild cherry, mint, iron and a touch of new oak infuse this opulent red with tremendous nuance. Soft curves and rich, voluptuous fruit add to the wine’s considerable personality. Time in the glass brings out the wine’s intense aromatics and overall nuance. The 2016 is flat out gorgeous. That’s all there is to it. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2017 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 11 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$550 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 100 (8/2020): Pure perfection, the 2017 No 11 comes all from the estate Cumulus Vineyard around the estate in Oak View and is 48% Syrah, 24.8% Grenache, 12.7% Mourvèdre, 10.6% Petite Sirah, and the balance a mix of white varieties including Petit Manseng and Roussanne. Fermented with 23% whole clusters and aged 32 months in 68% new French oak, this incredible 2017 boasts a saturated purple hue to go with full-bodied aromas and flavors of ripe blackberries, bouquet garni, ground pepper, white chocolate, and cured meats. Incredibly complex, flawlessly balanced, and with a seamless texture that needs to be tasted to be believed, this is a magical blend from California that can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for 15-20 years. Hats off to the Krankl family for another truly special wine! |
|
|
2017 |
Numero Tres Touriga Nacional (1.5 L) |
$550 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (8/2020): The third time the Krankls have released a Touriga Nacional-dominated release, I'd say the 2017 Touriga Nacional Numero Tres is the finest yet. If you'd told me this variety could produce a wine of this quality a decade ago, I'd have thought you were crazy, but the proof is in the pudding, as they say. Based on a blend of 80% Touriga Nacional, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah, and 6% Grenache, it comes 100% from the Cumulus Vineyard in Oak View and spent 33 months in 60% new French oak. There are a tiny 89 cases produced. Its deep purple hue is followed by a majestic bouquet of black cherries, cassis, blackberries, toasted spices, and flowery incense. With medium to full-bodied richness, a flawlessly balanced, elegant texture, silky tannins, and a saliva-inducing finish, it has one of the longest finishes in a wine I've encountered. I have no idea how this will evolve over the long-term, but I can't imagine it not benefiting from 2-4 years of bottle age and drinking brilliantly for at least 10-15 years. |
|
| Nickel and Nickel |
2021 |
John C. Sullenger Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon John C. Sullenger comes from a site in Oakville and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 55% new French oak. This deep purple-hued effort offers a textbook Oakville perfume of ripe black fruits, iron, smoked tobacco, and graphite. This carries to a powerful, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with a broad, expansive mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a gorgeous finish. It's an impressive effort, if not the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted. Enjoy bottles over the coming 15 years. (Drink between 2023-2038). |
|
| Quilceda Creek |
2020 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$389 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (5/2023): The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a lush, silky, rich, round nose with fresh and ripe notes that seduce and delight. Full-bodied, fresh and yet still tight, the wine offers a balanced structure and lifting tannins that elevate the mid-palate followed by juicy, fruit-forward layers and delightful oak spices. The Cabernet continues to show its depth and breadth, compounding its natural beauty. The Cabernet lingers on the ever-evolving, food-friendly finish and will benefit from another two years of bottle aging. The wine rested for 22 months in 100% new French oak.
JD 96 (6/2023): The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley is all Cabernet Sauvignon that's mostly from the Champoux Vineyard, with 10% from the Mach One Vineyard, which was planted in 2012. A big, ripe, opulent red, it has terrific aromatics of black currants, smoked tobacco, graphite, and loamy earth, medium to full-bodied richness, a round, opulent mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a heady finish. It doesn't match the all-time greats from this team, but it’s deep, rich, and clearly up with the crème de la crème of the vintage.
VM 96 (3/2023): The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley opens slowly. At first dark and understated, it gains lovely floral perfumes with each passing swirl of the glass, as rose-tinged black raspberries evolve, laced with nuances of sandalwood, lavender and dark, dark chocolate. This floods the palate with an elegant wave of ripe red and black fruits complemented by sweet exotic spice, all expertly lifted by a core of zesty acidity. The 2020 leaves balsamic nuances, with clove and cherry liquor, while tapering off lightly structured with fine yet silky tannins. The balance and energy here is remarkable for such a powerful young wine. The 2020 hails from 90% Champoux to 10% Mach One Vineyard’s. (Drink between 2026-2040). Eric Guido. |
|
| Ridge Vineyards |
2008 |
Monte Bello (1.5 L) |
$450 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (8/2011): The 2008 Monte Bello is striking. It is a decidedly muscular Monte Bello endowed with layers of dark fruit. Tobacco, mint, asphalt and crushed rocks develop in the glass, adding tons of complexity and finesse. A long, saline finish rounds things out beautifully. In 2008 the cold growing season stretched into October and the wine definitely has the feel of a cool vintage. The spring frost and the second year of drought conditions lowered yields significantly. Yields were just 1.25 tons per acre on average, but some of the older vineyards came in at less than 1 ton per acre. The balance of fruit, tannin and structure is simply extraordinary, but the wine needs time, most likely lots of it. In 2008 the blend is 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.
VM 95+ (11/2011): (72% cabernet sauvignon and 28% merlot; 13.3% alcohol): Glass-staining ruby. Powerful, pungent aromas of cherry-vanilla, cassis, candied licorice and graphite, along with a suave floral oil quality that gains strength with air. Deeply pitched dark berry flavors show a liqueur-like intensity, as well as notes of smoky Indian spices, violet and vanilla. Ripe but quite vibrant, wih superb finishing clarity and persistence. This extremely young wine makes the case that high alcohol isn't a prerequisite for intensity or power in California cabernet. Josh Raynolds.
JS 95 (5/2012): I love the nose to this wine. Aromas of currants, blackberry, flowers and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with super refined tannins and a long gorgeous finish. This is all in finesse and length. Made from 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot. Drink in 2015, or decant a couple hours before serving. |
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|
2019 |
Monte Bello |
$195 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 95 (8/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello is a more Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, all hitting 13.7% alcohol. As usual, it was aged in new American oak. It shows the higher Cabernet component and is deep purple-hued and tight and closed, with a primordial vibe to its dark blue and black fruit, smoked tobacco, vanilla bean, graphite, and cedarwood aromatics. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has terrific overall balance, building, ripe tannins, a good sense of freshness, and outstanding length. It reminds me slightly of the 2018 with its more elegant, streamlined profile, but I expect this to build with bottle age, and it should have 2-3 decades of overall longevity.
VM 97-100 (9/2020): The 2019 Monte Bello, tasted from barrel, is insanely beautiful. Vibrant, deep and pulsing with energy, the 2019 simply has it all. How will it turn out in bottle? I can’t say just yet. But this barrel sample shipped across the country is positively dazzling, so the wine’s potential is clear. The 2019 offers superb fruit density, with mid-weight structure, bright acids and plenty of tannin. It could very well turn out to be epic. Antonio Galloni.
JS 95 (9/2022): A unique chardonnay with sliced cooked peach, dried pineapple, lemon curd and vanilla. Some nougat, too. It's full-bodied and layered with a creamy texture. Flavorful and spicy finish. Chalky at the end, with a white-pepper undertone. Drink now or hold. |
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|
2022 |
Monte Bello (1.5 L) |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98 (4/2025): Aged in 100% new oak, the 2022 Monte Bello blends 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, selected from 18 of 21 lots by blind tasting. After assemblage, the wine spent 21 more months in barrel. The vineyard starts at 1,600 feet and goes up to 2,700 feet at top, and is spread out across 4 different ranches, Klein, Rousten, Torre and Perrone, the wines getting more tightknit and ageable as the vines move up the mountain. By the end of harvest, Monte Bello is split into 55 different blocks, which are then picked and fermented separately. Year after year, this is a “wow” wine, herbal, lightly spiced in oak, with a lovely creamy, velvety texture and a backbone of well-resolved tannin supporting a medium-bodied, balanced spirit of mountain garrigue. These wines typically age 20-25 years or more. Virginie Boone.
VM 96 (10/2025): The 2022 Monte Bello feels like a cooler-vintage wine, defying all expectations of the torrid growing season. Juicy, fresh and very old school, the 2022 sashays with true elegance as it unfurls into classic layers of cedar box, tobacco, grilled herbs, tart cherry and crushed rocks. A return to a more typical percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in this vintage can be felt in the wine's upright build and darker aromatic shadings. Winemaker John Olney chose to keep the 2022 in barrel for 21 months, a little longer than usual, in an effort to tame its fierce young tannins. That prescription worked out swimmingly. The 2022 is a very serious, structured wine, but its textural polish is beyond reproach. It's a Monte Bello that whispers rather than shouts. Time is very much on your side. (Drink between 2030-2060). Billy Norris. |
|
| Rivers Marie |
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2016): The Cabernets start with the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is from a single block of the Larkmead Vineyard. This is fabulous – 100% Olmo clone that is the same as the Eisele clone. Opaque purple, this wine was aged 20 months in a relatively small percentage of new oak. Blackberry, cassis, spring flowers and vanilla all jump from the glass of this fabulous, concentrated, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that is dense, pure and terrific. Alcohol levels are relatively modest at 14.3%. Drink it over the next 20 years.
VM 91 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, rich and intense, all qualities that make it an excellent choice for drinking now over the next few years. Sweet red cherry, plum fruit, and chocolate flavors are pushed forward. The soft, polished tannins give this fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon tons of near and medium term appeal. (Drink between 2017-2024). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Wrinkled Label |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2016): The Cabernets start with the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is from a single block of the Larkmead Vineyard. This is fabulous – 100% Olmo clone that is the same as the Eisele clone. Opaque purple, this wine was aged 20 months in a relatively small percentage of new oak. Blackberry, cassis, spring flowers and vanilla all jump from the glass of this fabulous, concentrated, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that is dense, pure and terrific. Alcohol levels are relatively modest at 14.3%. Drink it over the next 20 years.
VM 91 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, rich and intense, all qualities that make it an excellent choice for drinking now over the next few years. Sweet red cherry, plum fruit, and chocolate flavors are pushed forward. The soft, polished tannins give this fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon tons of near and medium term appeal. (Drink between 2017-2024). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2018 |
Southing Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (8/2022): The 2018 Pinot Noir Southing is laced with bold dark-fleshed fruit, menthol, licorice, spice and mocha. A wine of volume and depth, the 2018 offers tons of allure, with plush contours and impeccable overall balance. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2018 |
Ten Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (8/2022): The 2018 Pinot Noir Ten is a classic Sea Smoke wine. Dark, ample and enveloping, the 2018 possesses notable richness and volume right out of the gate. Inky dark fruit cherry, plum, mocha, lavender and sweet spice all meld together, framed by supple, silky tannins that add considerable immediacy and overall appeal. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Southing Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Southing is a rich, effusive wine. Bright red cherry fruit, rose petal, blood orange cinnamon and orange peel lend brightness to this mid-weight, articulate Pinot. This opens nicely with air, showing lovely density to play off its natural focus. (Drink between 2022-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Ten Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Ten is bright, punchy and super-expressive. It shows a bit more depth and textural resonance than the Southing. Sweet red cherry fruit blood orange, plum and spice flesh nicely with a bit of time. There's plenty of energy and persistence to support a number of years of fine drinking. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2020 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$105 |
12 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (8/2025): The 2020 Pinot Noir Southing is rich and voluptuous, showing its oak imprint prominently. Baking spices and waxy wood tones sit atop integrated tannins and supple acids. Vanilla, black raspberry and cassis weave through the palate, rounding into a gently bitter close. This is a broad, soft-edged Pinot with plenty of immediate appeal. I'd prefer more brightness, but this is clearly a very well-made wine. (Drink between 2025-2031). Billy Norris. |
|
|
2020 |
Southing Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$210 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (8/2025): The 2020 Pinot Noir Southing is rich and voluptuous, showing its oak imprint prominently. Baking spices and waxy wood tones sit atop integrated tannins and supple acids. Vanilla, black raspberry and cassis weave through the palate, rounding into a gently bitter close. This is a broad, soft-edged Pinot with plenty of immediate appeal. I'd prefer more brightness, but this is clearly a very well-made wine. (Drink between 2025-2031). Billy Norris. |
|
|
2021 |
Southing Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$210 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2025): The 2021 Pinot Noir Southing shows a step up in elegance in this tasting of the 2020s and 2021s, layering plush textures over generous berry and cherry fruit. A touch of bitter spice and gentle acidity add lift, keeping the wine poised and engaging through the finish. (Drink between 2025-2032). Billy Norris. |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2015 |
"E" Eleven Confessions Vyd. Grenache |
$450 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 100 (9/2019): The 2015 Grenache E, from Elaine and Manfred Krankl’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard, is stunningly beautiful. Remarkably light on its feet for such a sumptuous wine, the 2015 has so much to offer. Beautifully expressive aromatics make a strong opening impression. Dark red and purplish berry fruit, mint, sweet spice and licorice develop with air, but it is the wine’s overall feel that stands out most. At times, the E is quite powerful, while in other moments it is much more delicate. That contrast makes for an utterly captivating wine. Antonio Galloni.
WA 100 (6/2019): This is a single-vineyard Grenache-dominated, barrel-selection blend coming from the Eleven Confessions Estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. It bears Elaine Krankl’s initial and a portrait Manfred made of Elaine on the label. The blend is 82% Grenache, 12% Syrah, 5% Petite Syrah and 1% Viognier, and 56% was fermented using whole clusters. It was aged for around 38 months in French oak, 28% new.
JD 98+ (10/2019): The 2015 Grenache E comes all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard and spent a whopping 38 months in 28% new French oak, with the balance in used barrels of varying sizes. An incredible effort that offers complex notes of cured meats, graphite, ground white and black pepper, flowers, and cassis, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and a purity level that’s just about off the charts. Showing the concentrated, powerful, structured style of the vintage, give bottles 3-4 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following decade or more. |
|
|
2015 |
"E" Eleven Confessions Vyd. Grenache (1.5 L) |
$800 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 100 (9/2019): The 2015 Grenache E, from Elaine and Manfred Krankl’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard, is stunningly beautiful. Remarkably light on its feet for such a sumptuous wine, the 2015 has so much to offer. Beautifully expressive aromatics make a strong opening impression. Dark red and purplish berry fruit, mint, sweet spice and licorice develop with air, but it is the wine’s overall feel that stands out most. At times, the E is quite powerful, while in other moments it is much more delicate. That contrast makes for an utterly captivating wine. Antonio Galloni.
WA 100 (6/2019): This is a single-vineyard Grenache-dominated, barrel-selection blend coming from the Eleven Confessions Estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. It bears Elaine Krankl’s initial and a portrait Manfred made of Elaine on the label. The blend is 82% Grenache, 12% Syrah, 5% Petite Syrah and 1% Viognier, and 56% was fermented using whole clusters. It was aged for around 38 months in French oak, 28% new.
JD 98+ (10/2019): The 2015 Grenache E comes all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard and spent a whopping 38 months in 28% new French oak, with the balance in used barrels of varying sizes. An incredible effort that offers complex notes of cured meats, graphite, ground white and black pepper, flowers, and cassis, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and a purity level that’s just about off the charts. Showing the concentrated, powerful, structured style of the vintage, give bottles 3-4 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following decade or more. |
|
|
2015 |
Le Chemin Vers L’Heresie Grenache |
$255 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 99 (7/2018): I loved the 2015 Grenache le Chemin Vers l’Heresie from barrel, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint from bottle. The 2015 checks in as a blend of 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, 8% Touriga Nacional and the rest Petite Sirah, fermented with 44% whole clusters (all from the Grenache and Mourvèdre) and aged close to two years in mostly used barrel. It sports a ruby/purple-tinged color to go with gorgeous notes of black cherries, framboise, black olives, fennel seed, and peppery herbs. Deep, concentrated, yet also voluptuous and seamless, it’s another tour de force from this estate which consistently produces one of the greatest Grenaches in the world. Drink it anytime over the coming 15+ years.
WA 98+ (9/2017): The 2015 Grenache Le Chemin Vers L'Heresie is a blend of 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, 8% Touriga Nacional and 4% Petite Sirah, coming 35% from The Third Twin (Estate) Vineyard, 9% from Bien Nacido Vineyard, 28% from the Cumulus (Estate) Vineyard, 26% from the Eleven Confessions (Estate) Vineyard and 2% from Molly Aida (Estate) Vineyard. It was produced using 44% whole cluster and aged for around 22 months in French oak, 11% new (bottled August 21, 2017). It has a deep garnet-purple color and fragrant nose of violets, kirsch, blueberry compote and dark chocolate with hints of lavender, smoky bacon, Provence herbs and menthol. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and bold, the wines bursts with energy, superbly framed by velvety tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with lingering sauteed herbs and black pepper notions. 1,204 cases of 750 milliliter bottles and 600 magnum bottles were made.
VM 96-98 (9/2017): The 2015 Grenache Le Chemin vers l'Heresie is a total turn-on. Rich, ripe and voluptuous, but with considerable aromatic nuance from the 44% whole clusters, the 2015 has it all. Time in the glass brings out floral and red-toned Grenache varietal notes, and the flavors are remarkably vivid and intense today. Even so, readers will have to cellar this for at least a few years. All the elements are in place for the 2015 to develop into a spectacular wine. I can't wait to see how it ages. The 2015 is 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, 8% Touriga Nacional and 4% Petite Sirah, done with 44% whole clusters (for the Grenache and Mourvèdre). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
"M" Eleven Confessions Vyd. Syrah |
$325 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2019): The extended aged 2015 Syrah M is more backward and structured, with the 2015 vintage character front and center. Based on 90.6% Syrah and the rest Petite Sirah, Grenache, and Viognier, aged 38 months in 66% new oak, its deep purple color is followed by powerful notes of blackcurrants, blackberries, cedarwood, spiced meat, candle wax, and white flowers. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a huge mid-palate, building tannins, and one serious finish. This rocking beast of a Syrah stays remarkably elegant and perfectly balanced yet needs 4-5 years or more of bottle age. It’s going to evolve for two decades or more.
WA 99 (6/2019): This is a single-vineyard Syrah-dominant blend coming from the Eleven Confessions Estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. It bears Manfred Krankl’s initial and a provocative self-portrait on the label. The blend is 90.6% Syrah, 4.4% Petite Syrah, 2.6% Grenache and 2.4% Viognier. Forty-three percent was fermented using whole clusters. It was aged for around 38 months in French oak, 66% new.
VM 99 (9/2019): The 2015 Syrah M will thrill Sine Qua Non lovers. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, with tremendous aromatic nuance from the whole clusters, the 2015 possesses mind-blowing intensity, yet also remains light on its feet. What impresses me most is how much energy and vivacity the 2015 shows given the tiny yields that year. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this is yet another stunning wine from Sine Qua Non. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
"M" Eleven Confessions Vyd. Syrah (1.5 L) |
$650 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2019): The extended aged 2015 Syrah M is more backward and structured, with the 2015 vintage character front and center. Based on 90.6% Syrah and the rest Petite Sirah, Grenache, and Viognier, aged 38 months in 66% new oak, its deep purple color is followed by powerful notes of blackcurrants, blackberries, cedarwood, spiced meat, candle wax, and white flowers. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a huge mid-palate, building tannins, and one serious finish. This rocking beast of a Syrah stays remarkably elegant and perfectly balanced yet needs 4-5 years or more of bottle age. It’s going to evolve for two decades or more.
WA 99 (6/2019): This is a single-vineyard Syrah-dominant blend coming from the Eleven Confessions Estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. It bears Manfred Krankl’s initial and a provocative self-portrait on the label. The blend is 90.6% Syrah, 4.4% Petite Syrah, 2.6% Grenache and 2.4% Viognier. Forty-three percent was fermented using whole clusters. It was aged for around 38 months in French oak, 66% new.
VM 99 (9/2019): The 2015 Syrah M will thrill Sine Qua Non lovers. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, with tremendous aromatic nuance from the whole clusters, the 2015 possesses mind-blowing intensity, yet also remains light on its feet. What impresses me most is how much energy and vivacity the 2015 shows given the tiny yields that year. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this is yet another stunning wine from Sine Qua Non. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2015 |
Trouver l’Arene Syrah |
$300 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 100 (7/2018): The otherworldly 2015 Syrah Trouver l’Arene is made from 80% Syrah, 7% each of Petite Sirah and Mourvèdre, and the balance Viognier and Grenache. As with the Grenache in 2015, it saw some whole clusters in the fermentation and spent 22 months in close to equal parts new and used French oak. Opaque purple-colored and loaded with sensational notes of smoked black fruits, peppery herbs, liquid flowers, exotic spice, and lavender, this insane beauty hits the palate with awesome density and depth, yet stays amazingly light and graceful, with no apparent weight or heaviness. It possesses sweet tannin, incredible purity of fruit, and a finish that goes on for nearly a minute. It’s an incredible effort that reminds me of a great vintage of Guigal’s Côte Rôtie La Mouline (the 2010? It’s not too dissimilar to the 2003 early in its life) with its exotic, floral, gamey character. There have been so many monumental Syrahs from this address it’s difficult to say where this beauty will ultimately end up when it’s at maturity, but my money is on it being in the top handful of Syrahs ever made by Manfred. It’s incredible today (with a decant) but needs 3-5 years and will knock your socks off over the following two decades or more.
WA 100 (9/2017): Composed of 80.5% Syrah, 7% Petite Syrah, 7% Mourvèdre, 2% Grenache and 3.5% Viognier, all sourced from estate vineyards—37% The Third Twin, 36% Eleven Confessions and 27% Cumulus—the 2015 Syrah Trouver L’Arene was made using 34% whole cluster and has a deep purple-black color with intense cassis, black plums and black cherries scents plus hints of anise, violets, sage and tar, with wafts of savory/smoked meat suggestions. Full-bodied, this voluptuous beauty is seriously singing in the mouth, belting out vibrant red and black fruit flavor layers, all framed by very fine, rounded, ripe tannins and a wonderful freshness, finishing with persistent perfumed fruit and a spring in its step. 1,778 cases and 600 magnums were produced.
VM 94-97 (9/2017): The brilliant 2015 Syrah Trouver l'Arene is powerful and dense, but also light on its feet for such an intense wine. Inky blue/purplish fruit, wild flowers, mint, spice and lavender all flesh out in the glass, but it is the wine's textural finesse that really elevates it. Rich, opulent and super-expressive, the 2015 has all the elements to develop into a spectacular Syrah. The blend is 80.5% Syrah, 7% Petite Sirah, 7% Mourvèdre, 3.5% Viognier and 2% Grenache done with 34% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Tusk Estates |
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$650 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$625 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Williams Selyem |
2015 |
Eastside Road Neighbors Pinot Noir |
$89 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92+ (4/2018): The medium ruby-purple colored 2015 Pinot Noir Eastside Road Neighbors has a wonderfully spicy nose featuring notes of allspice, fenugreek, cloves and anise over a core of black cherries, warm red currants and pomegranate with a waft of fertile loam. Medium-bodied, soft, spicy and seductive, it offers beautiful poise and compelling depth. 865 cases produced. |
|
|
2017 |
Eastside Road Neighbors Pinot Noir |
$75 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2019): The 2017 Pinot Noir Eastside Road Neighbors has a pale to medium ruby-purple color and is youthfully shy, slowly offering scents of raspberry preserves, red and black cherries and touches of cured meats, peppercorn, autumn leaves, dried rose petal and potpourri. It's light to medium-bodied, rounded and silky with slowly evolving earth and spice layers, a sturdy frame of grainy tannins and great freshness, finishing long with baking spice touches. This is very youthfully coiled, and my score may look conservative a year from now. 1,289 cases produced. |
|
|
2017 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$85 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2019): Pale to medium ruby-purple, the 2017 Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard opens with crushed blueberry and blackberry, black cherry, cinnamon and vanilla touches plus licorice, loamy earth, dried leaves and tobacco/cedar hints. Medium-bodied, rounded and wonderfully silky and concentrated, it offers lovely flavor layers, a youthfully firm frame of tannins and great juicy freshness on the amazingly long, layered and energetic finish. This will reward another few years of cellaring.
JD 95 (12/2020): One of the standouts in the lineup, the 2017 Pinot Noir Williams Selyem Estate Vineyard just about jumps out of the glass with its foresty, pine, spice, and mulled red and black fruit-driven aromatics. These all carry over on the palate, where the wine is medium to full-bodied, has bright, juicy acidity, elegant tannins, and the class to evolve for a decade. (Drink between 2020-2030).
VM 94+ (5/2019): The 2017 Pinot Noir Williams Selyem Estate Vineyard is powerful and tightly wound, with less of the appeal found in most of these 2017s. That shouldn't be too much of an issue in another few years' time, but readers should plan on being patient. There is not much Russian River charm on display today. (Drink between 2022-2032). Antonio Galloni.
BH 93 (4/2020): This is also appealingly cool and restrained with spicier aromas of both red and dark pinot fruit along with hints of Asian-style tea. The middle weight flavors possess a highly attractive texture despite not being particularly dense though there is already fine complexity on the dusty, compact and sneak long finish. This bitter cherry pit-inflected effort appears to have very good development potential and is a wine that will definitely need at least some patience in order to better harmonize. (Drink starting 2028). |
|
|
2017 |
Precious Mountain Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 95 (5/2019): Next to the other 2017s in this range, the Pinot Noir Precious Mountain Vineyard comes across as quite shy, with more of a savory character and less overt fruit. Firm tannins dominate at this stage, and yet there is plenty of depth and complexity waiting to emerge. Readers will have to be patient, but there is plenty to look forward to. (Drink between 2020-2032). Antonio Galloni.
JD 94 (12/2020): Beautifully complex and balanced, the 2017 Pinot Noir Precious Mountain Vineyard offers a complex bouquet of spiced red and black fruits, earthy, pine-laced forest floor, and a subtle beef broth-like meatiness. With plenty of richness on the palate, a bright spine of acidity, and lively tannins, this youthful yet oh, so promising beauty should evolve nicely for a solid decade. (Drink between 2020-2030).
WA 92 (12/2019): The 2017 Pinot Noir Precious Mountain Vineyard is pale to medium ruby-purple and youthfully shy, very slowly giving up cinnamon stick, warm blackberries, black and red cherries, pipe tobacco, prosciutto, earth and black tea leaves. It's light to medium-bodied and spicy but somewhat shy in the mouth, with a firm frame of chalky tannins and juicy acidity, finishing very long and spicy. This needs more time in bottle! |
|
|
2020 |
Eastside Road Neighbors Pinot Noir |
$75 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$85 |
12 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2023): The 2020 Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard was matured in 76% new oak for 16 months. It has a medium ruby color and a core of red cherry fruit with accents of mushroom, tobacco and Angostura bitters. The light-bodied palate is soft and refreshing with understated, spicy fruit and a satisfying, juicy finish. |
|
|
2020 |
Williams Selyem Estate Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2023): The 2020 Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard was matured in 76% new oak for 16 months. It has a medium ruby color and a core of red cherry fruit with accents of mushroom, tobacco and Angostura bitters. The light-bodied palate is soft and refreshing with understated, spicy fruit and a satisfying, juicy finish. 808 cases were made. |
|
|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$83 |
12 |
|
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WA 95 (6/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, matured for 11 months in 41% new oak, is very expressive and generous this vintage. It has a medium ruby-purple color, and the nose is bursting with cranberry, raspberry, red cherry and wafts of tea leaves, mushroom, orange peel and wildflowers. The medium-bodied palate is full of powerful fruit, delivered in a seamless frame, and it reveals latent spicy accents on the long finish.
JD 93+ (7/2023): A deeper ruby, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is classic and well-layered with ripe aromas of cola spice, black cherry, and iron-rich earth. The palate is full and ripe with good freshness, notes of black raspberry and fresh forest floor, and a good lift of acidity. This is a fantastic example of place. Drink 2023-2028. Audrey Frick. |
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2021 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$85 |
5 |
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| JD 93 (7/2023): The ruby 2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is lifted with fresh aromas of wet stone, pepper, and fresh cherry. Medium-bodied, it offers a more linear feel, with a spine of bright acidity, and is balanced with blue and black berries, dusty earth, an angular texture, and a fresh lift. I love this for its snappy, crunchy fruit and nice balance. Drink 2024-2030. Audrey Frick. |
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2022 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$85 |
3 |
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JD 94 (6/2024): A youthful ruby with a magenta tone, the 2022 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley has lovely aromas of preserved cherries, fresh pine, black tea leaf, and incense. The palate retains lovely freshness and mouthwatering citrus, with fine tannins and a clean brightness on the finish. It's rather long on the palate, with ripe tannins, and has the structure to drink over the next 8-10 years.These are the spring releases from Williams-Selyem and were tasted with Vice President and Director of Winemaking Jeff Mangahas at the estate in the Russian River Valley. (Drink between 2024-2034). Audrey Frick.
WA 91 (10/2024): Matured for 11 months in 40% new oak, the 2022 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is scented of red and black cherries and berries with notes of Earl Grey tea leaves and forest floor. The medium-bodied palate boasts powerful fruit and youthful new oak spice. It has a silky texture, rounded acidity and a flavorful finish. |
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2022 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir Tissue-Stained Label |
$85 |
6 |
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JD 94 (6/2024): A youthful ruby with a magenta tone, the 2022 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley has lovely aromas of preserved cherries, fresh pine, black tea leaf, and incense. The palate retains lovely freshness and mouthwatering citrus, with fine tannins and a clean brightness on the finish. It's rather long on the palate, with ripe tannins, and has the structure to drink over the next 8-10 years.These are the spring releases from Williams-Selyem and were tasted with Vice President and Director of Winemaking Jeff Mangahas at the estate in the Russian River Valley. (Drink between 2024-2034). Audrey Frick.
WA 91 (10/2024): Matured for 11 months in 40% new oak, the 2022 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is scented of red and black cherries and berries with notes of Earl Grey tea leaves and forest floor. The medium-bodied palate boasts powerful fruit and youthful new oak spice. It has a silky texture, rounded acidity and a flavorful finish. |
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2022 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$83 |
6 |
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JD 93 (6/2024): Ripe ruby red-colored, the 2022 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is lifted and bright in the glass with cranberry, currants, blood orange zest, and dried herbs. Medium-bodied, it's approachable and elegant, with refined tannins and a clean, lasting finish. It's beautiful and long, with a lovely, ripe feel through the finish, and it has a bit more richness in the tannins' structure. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.These are the spring releases from Williams-Selyem and were tasted with Vice President and Director of Winemaking Jeff Mangahas at the estate in the Russian River Valley. (Drink between 2024-2032). Audrey Frick.
WA 91 (10/2024): Matured for 11 months in 40% new oak, the 2022 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast has layered scents of red cherries, blackberries, Angostura bitters and bergamot. The medium-bodied palate is supple, silky and inviting with bright acidity and a long finish laced with earth and spice. |
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| | USA White |
| Sine Qua Non |
2017 |
Tectumque White Wine (1.5 L) |
$439 |
1 |
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| WA 97+ (6/2019): Tectumque means “shelter” in Latin. This wine was initially going to be called “Inconnue” (“unknown” in French), but that name had already been trademarked. “Naming wines is becoming impossible,” mentioned Manfred. “Everything has already been taken. Even, 'No Name!'” This is a blend of 38% Roussanne, 31% Petit Manseng, 18% Chardonnay, 9% Viognier and 4% Muscat. The vineyard components are 52% Cumulus Estate, 19% Eleven Confessions Estate, 18% Bien Nacido Vineyard and 11% The Third Twin Estate. It spent around 20 months aging in 9% concrete eggs, 4% amphora, 9% used barrels and 78% new French oak puncheons. |
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