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| Saturday: | 11:00am to 06:00pm |
Beer & Wine:
- Mr. Liquor Restaurants/Food & Dining in Citrus Heights, CA
7807 Madison Ave
- Capitol Cellars Beer & Wine in Gold River, CA
2220 Gold Springs CT
- Unwined Beer & Wine in Folsom, CA
915 Sutter St
- IL Forno Classico Wine Shop Beer & Wine in Rancho Cordova, CA
2121 Golden Centre Ln
- Petra Vineyard & Winery Beer & Wine in FOLSOM, CA
627 Sutter St
- Folsom Wine & Spirits Restaurants/Food & Dining in Folsom, CA
6606 Folsom-Auburn Rd # 7
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2010 Chateau Simian Chateauneuf-du-Pape les Grandes Grenachieres d'Hippolyte, Southern Rhone Valley, France
"A stunning expression of old vine Grenache, it boasts abundant notes of raspberries, licorice and kirsch intermixed with hints of forest floor and underbrush. With good acidity, precision and freshness as well as a deep, full-bodied, voluptuously textured mouthfeel, this superb example of old vine Grenache should drink well for 15+ years."
$69.95 2010 Giuseppe Gabbas Cannonau "Dule", Sardinia, Italy
2014 Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri AGAIN! Best singular clone of Grenache produced in Italy. Made from grapes taken from forty year old vines in the "Dule" parcel of Gabbas' vineyards, this wine has undergone one year in French oak barriques. It has a soft, spiced berry nose and on the palate the texture is full and velvety, with smooth tannins and ripe red fruits on the finish.
$39.95 The Winemaker by Richard G. Peterson
Just published, "The Winemaker" by Richard Peterson is a definite Must read for any wine aficionado. I am honored to be selected by Richard to offer his book ($29.95) to my clientele. This is his autobiography, mostly about his career as he pioneered winemaking in California. He graduated from Berkeley on the GI bill with his PhD in Agricultural Chemistry in 1958 (Richard always likes to remind me that my Uncle was one of his favorite professors and sat on his PhD committee), and was immediately hired by Gallo (The University of Gallo!) to become a winemaker in the Research Production Dept. He spent 10 years there becoming the head winemaker, before being handpicked by Andre Tcheliftcheff to replace him as the winemaker at Beaulieu in Rutherford. In 1974 Richard moved to the Monterey area to become winemaker and President of the huge The Monterey Vineyard project. There he details the many pit falls in beginning a new winery, and shares his trials and tribulations! Please scroll down for more information!
$29.95 N.V. MARC HÉBRART - Cuvée de Réserve Brut, Mareuil-Sur-Aÿ, Champagne, France
"The best edition of this wine in three years, and a candidate for wine of the offering. Given what went into it, this is amazingly tasty, winsome, clear, in the sweetest way angular, and leaves a deft finale of fruit fading to chalk; lingers and lingers. The empty glass smells of kiwi fruit and guava." scroll down for more information and notes.
$49.95 2008 Pierre Gimonnet et Fils "Oenophile" (Non-Dosage) Extra Brut Premier Cru - Côte des Blancs, Cuis, Champagne, France
"A really fine fragrance; about as grand as can be imagined. It has-as most such wines doabout 1.5g/l rs after 2nd fermentation-and what complexity, seamless balance, crushed oyster-shell, length, lemony splash and suave stoniness." On the short list of the top four "Wines of the 2015 Offering". It is exactly the Fleuron blend, but without dosage. Please continue to scroll down for more information and notes.
$74.95 2005 Henri Goutorbe Special Club, Vallée de la Marne, Aÿ, Champagne, France
"Aromatic and exotic on the nose and creamy palate, with guava, star anise and pastry dough notes leading the way and layered with accents of lemon preserves, spun honey and orchard blossom. The refined mousse and vibrant acidity drive the lingering finish. Disgorged March 2014. Drink now through 2028. 60 cases imported. 93 points, Wine Spectator - AN (November 2015) - Please scroll down for more information.
$86.95 Bonus Champagne Sampler
Includes the following: 2 Bottles of 2009 Pierre Gimonnet "Fleuron" Blanc de Blancs Brut, 1er Cru Côte des Blancs-Cuis, Champagne, France 2 Bottles of 2007 HENRI BILLIOT - Brut Millesime - Montagne de Reims, Ambonnay, Champagne, France 2 Bottles of NV VILMART & CIE "Cuvée Grand Cellier", Brut, 1er Cru - Rilly-la-Montagne, Champagne, France.
$409.70 2006 Pierre Gimonnet "Fleuron" Blanc de Blancs Brut, Premier Cru Côte des Blancs-Cuis, Champagne, France (MAGNUM)
Interested in an exquisite grouping of champagne like this? Check out our Bonus Champagne Sampler, on sale now! "These are sappy, crunchy, refreshing champagnes of acupuncturally tonic qualities with lingering, salty purity." - Didier Gimonnet. We found it irresistible!
$161.95 2007 HENRI BILLIOT - Brut Millesime - Montagne de Reims, Ambonnay, Champagne, France
"A vivacious Champagne that's hard to stop sipping. This is firm, with a lively mousse carrying a crowd-pleasing mix of crushed blackberry and black cherry, whole-grain toast, candied lemon zest, graphite and ground ginger. Offers a mouthwatering, chalky finish. Disgorged October 21, 2013. Drink now through 2027". - 93 points, Wine Spectator (12/14/14) Scroll down to read more.
$69.95 NV VILMART & CIE "Cuvée Grand Cellier", Brut, 1er Cru - Rilly-la-Montagne, Champagne, France
Interested in an exquisite grouping of champagne like this? Check out our Bonus Champagne Sampler, on sale now! "Vilmart & Cie. is not only one of the greatest grower-estates in Champagne, but one of the finest champagne producers of any type in the region." - Peter Liem, champagneguide.net.
$69.95 2010 Poderi Boscarelli Nocio Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Tuscano
The extremely limited signature Nocio designation is always rare and difficult to obtain. Only about 5,000 bottles are produced annually. This remarkable wine, from a former 4 hectare walnut grove at the top of a knoll on the east side of the property, shows off why this Montepulciano producer is considered the finest garage producer of Vino Nobilo (Prugnolo Gentile) in the area.
$89.95 2014 Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, Napa-Sonoma County, California
Spottswoode's Estate fruit is supplement by a blend of Sauvignon Blanc from surrounding vineyards, including 27% of the very floral Musque Clone.
$37.95 2012 Tofanelli Charbono, Calistoga, Napa Valley, California
Yowser! New "old world" Charbono from the Tofanelli's 1.5 acre plot of head pruned bush vines on gravelly loam that has been dry farmed and organically grown by the family since 1929. Scroll down for more information!
$37.95 2013 Louis Michel et Fils, Premier Cru Butteaux Vieilles Vignes, Chablis, Burgundy, France
Very final 3 cases arriving from NY next week, now 17 bottles available! From a special small plot of old vines planted in 1954 on Kimmeridgian marl at the top of the left bank slope, and treated like a Grand Cru, Louis Michel keeps this source separate from his other four Butteaux parcels. Scroll down for more!
$47.95 2012 Westerly Cote Blonde, Happy Canyon, Santa Barbara
"Shows ample power and finesse. Racy aromas of currant, licorice and smoke open to concentrated flavors of boysenberry, cedar and pencil lead, finishing with ripe but firm tannins. Syrah and Viognier. Best from 2017 through 2022. 589 cases made" - 92 points, Wine Spectator. (scroll down for more!)
$44.95 2013 Solitude Chardonnay, Carneros-Sonoma, California
Layers of soft toasty oak complement the tropical fruit flavors of the Carneros appellation. This Chardonnay is dry, full and very rich, and butter tinged, but retains refreshing acidity to keep all the components well balanced..(scroll down for more).
$29.95 2014 Lewis Cellars Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Just announced! 95 points by Wine Spectator!! Lewis Chardonnay Napa Valley 2014 - $55 | 2,000 cases made | "White A bold, rich and creamy style that's remarkably elegant and graceful, with a bounty of ripe flavors built around white peach, nectarine, honeysuckle, fig and floral aromas. Finishes with a long sustained finish that keeps repeating the fruit themes. Drink now through 2021. From California."-J.L. - 95 points (Wine Spectator).
$51.95 2010 Domaine Lupier El Terroir (Garnacha), Navarra, Spain
Singular Garnacha is a rare phenomenon in itself, as the varietal usually needs complementing support from Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault or Carignan. However, the level of extraordinary fruit quality found from Lupier's old vine Navarra vineyards is capable of standing on its own, and makes this a standout wine, especially when price is factored into the equation..(scroll down for more).
$33.95 2010 Domaine Lupier La Dama Vinas Viejas (Garnacha), Navarra, Spain
La Dama is breathtaking!! Think Grenache is a "lightweight" varietal. Think again! If only I could take a bath in this wine! Singular Garnacha (Grenache) is a rare phenomenon in itself, as the varietal usually needs complementing support from Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault or Carignan. However, the level of extraordinary fruit quality found from Lupier's old vine Navarra vineyards is capable of standing on its own, and makes this a standout wine, especially when price is factored into the equation..(scroll down for more).
$44.95 2009 Castello di Bolgheri, Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscana, Italy
The 2009 Castello di Bolgheri vintage, a Tre Bicchieri winner from a few years back has now surfaced. We just found 84 final bottles stashed away with the importer. Although still very cellar worthy, the 2009 is drinking soooo goooood! It is time to act quickly if you want one of the very finest values from this coastal region in Tuscany that produces Cabernet Sauvignon/blends that compete favorably with Bordeaux and Napa Valley(scroll down for more).
$69.95 2008 Inama Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "Bradisismo" - MAGNUM
With vineyard holdings almost exclusively on the Monte Foscarino, in the heart of the Soave Classico district, there was little choice but to specialize in the production of quality wines. Giuseppe Inama, who gradually acquired a total of thirty hectares in the most enviable sites, founded the estate in the 1960s. Stefano, Giuseppe's son, assumed control of winemaking in 1992.
$79.95 2013 Suavia Monte Carbonare Soave Classico (Garganega), Veneto
100% Garganega from older vines; the vineyard was first planted by the Tessaris in 1946. Monte Carbonare is one of Classico's best crus, named after the dark, coal-like color of this volcanic soil (carbone means 'coal').
$29.95 2012 Podere Sapaio Volpolo, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
We are a long time fanatics for Massimo Piccin's wines. His signature 2012 Sapaio was just named Tre Bicchieri by Gambero Rosso for the sixth consecutive vintage. We are watching a legend in the making! Bravo! BUT CHECK OUT THIS VOLPOLO!!!..(scroll down for more).
$35.95 2012 Roberto Voerzio Nebiollo "Vigneti S. Francesco", La Morra, Piemonte
The winery was established in 1986 in La Morra, a town in the heart of the Langhe that has always been renowned for the greatness of its vineyards, some of which were mentioned in town records going back as far as 1250.
$38.95 NV Bibi Graetz Casamatta Rosso, Tuscana, Italy
Produced by Bibi Graetz, one of Tuscany's most accomplished and prestigious producers, you will go plenty "crazy" when you gulp this pure, soft, spicy, fruit driven 100% Sangiovese .CRAZY that you did not buy more!!
$10.50 2014 Halcón Vineyards Proprietary Rhone Red "Esquisto"
I have been following the highly ambitious Halcón project since 2009. We were the first merchants to stock Halcón's miniscule Syrah production of 09 Alturas, but I was originally drawn to the project's promise to produce Mourvedre in the high elevation, ancient soils of the cool clime Yorkville Highlands above Anderson Valley in Mendocino.
$29.95 2013 Reynvaan Syrah The Hills, Walla Walla Valley, Washington
Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2013 Syrah In The Hills is a blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier and is only the second vintage for this cuvee, which was first made in 2012. Sporting a distinctly northern Rhone style in its peppery herb, olive tapenade, violet and spice filled bouquet, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, elegant and layered, with striking purity of fruit. Reminding me of a quality Cote Rotie, enjoy this beauty over the coming decade. - 94 points, Wine Advocate (June 2015).
$84.95 2013 Reynvaan Syrah In The Rocks, Walla Walla Valley, Washington
"A cofermented blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier, the 2013 Syrah In The Rocks, which saw 25% new oak, is another pretty, layered, medium to full-bodied and elegant 2013 that has perfumed raspberry, pepper, dried herbs and assorted floral aromas and flavors. Juicy and lively, with good acidity, it should be approachable on release and have 10-12 years of overall longevity." - 92-95 points, Wine Advocate (June 2015).
$84.95 2007 Favia Syrah Quarzo, Amador County, Sierra Foothills, California
"Immense and expressive, offering broad, expansive layers of wild berry and blackberry, fresh, loamy earth, pepper, spice and nutmeg, with a rich mouthfeel that lets the berry fruit fan out and gain nuance and complexity. Drink now through 2017. 220 cases made." - 95 points, Wine Spectator, JL (Feb 28, 2010).
$99.95 2013 Herman Story Syrah White Hawk Vineyard, Santa Barbara
Previous vintage rated 95 points by Wine Advocate. Extremely limited!
$49.95 Buil & Gine Priorat Natur Vermut - Priorat, Catalan, Spain
The initial white wine is made from Macabeo, Pedro Ximénez and White Garnacha, and is vinified in contact with the skins, creating more aroma and a pale golden color. Then a small amount of sugar is introduced to achieve its desired sweetness, and the elixir is macerated with aromatic herbs: fennel, rosemary, cumin, cinnamon and vanilla. The infused wine is then aged a minimum of two years in old oak casks, where it obtains the desired aromas and characteristic amber coloring.
$24.95 2010 Eladio Piniero Albarino Frore de Carme Reserve - Rias Baixas, Galicia, Spain
The palate is thick, weighty and creamy which is atypical for Albariño. And remember, this wine has already evolved some as it is the current release of 2010. Still one finds the fresh briny, citrusy, and minerality that so defines high quality Albariño; think apple, melon, lemon curd, ginger, hay, brioche.
$33.95 2014 Arbe Garbe Proprietary White, Sonoma County, California
Floral aromatics! Dry, with full and supple palate impressions of lemon, pineapple, pear, and melon. Underlying acidity keeps everything fresh and never heavy.
$35.95 2013 Chanin Chardonnay, Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, California
"A beautiful wine, the 2013 Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict Vineyard comes from one of the top vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills. This 2013 has terrific purity and class in its white peach, stone fruits, white flowers and toasted bread aromas and flavors. These all come together nicely on the palate, where it's medium-bodied, elegant and balanced, with both richness and freshness. This is a classic, beautifully made Chardonnay to enjoy over the coming 5-6 years." - Wine Advocate.
$44.95 2012 Neyers Cabernet Sauvignon Neyers Ranch - Conn Valley, Napa Valley
The 2012 Neyers is an absolute KNOCKOUT!! Redolent, rich melding of cassis, blackcherry mulberry aromas. Gorgeously similar flavors mouth coat the supple palate. Nicely balanced. Comfortable, integrated, brushy fine tannins. Finish is extended pleasure. A seductress of a wine! - ES.
$46.95 2013 Eladio Piniero Albarino Envidia Cochina - Rias Baixas, Galicia, Spain
Super-charged dry Albariño with honey and tropical fruit, but showing also the lees contact with an almost balsamic sweetness and a mineral finish. Two cases available!!
$22.95 2014 Duemani Si Syrah Rosé, Riparbella, Pisa, Tuscany
Not only will this wine make an extraordinary presence on your holiday table, but it will pair perfectly with your roast turkey especially when complemented with a cranberry relish enhanced by a little orange zest. $44.95 a bottle! BUT WORTH IT!!! Very limited availability! REGRETFULLY, NOW SOLD OUT!
$44.95 2013 Precedent Zinfandel Evangelho Vineyard, Contra Costa County, California
Nathan Kandler has hit this Zinfandel OUT OF THE PARK! Just oozing with the freshest, brightest, quintessential briar patch fruit, this wine comes from the Contra Costa County's eastern delta Evangelho Vineyard, planted in 1890 on its own root stock in over 30 vertical feet of alluvial sand.
$29.95 2009 Le Cinciole Petresco Riserva, Panzano, Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
Dark red cherry, plum, smoke, tobacco and new leather are some of the notes that flesh out in the Le Cinciole 2009 Petresco, a 100% Sangiovese. Rich and sumptuous on the palate, yet backed up by considerable structure, the 2009 should drink beautifully for a number of years. Antonio Galloni 92 pts.
$36.95 2012 Vinos Pinol Ludovicus Tinto (Garnacha), Terra Alta, Catalunya, Spain
Named in tribute to the Romans who settled and farmed grapes here in 200-300AD. The Garnacha that grow in Terra Alta are among the finest in Spain due to four factors: the elevation, the limestone soil, the diurnal temperature swings, and the plethora of old vines found there. Intense dark ripe berry fruits. Underlying spiciness and Mediterranean minerality. Juicy cherry-strawberry "hard shell" candy core. Supple with soft supporting tannins. Vibrant and fresh!
$14.95 2013 Outlier Pinot Noir, North Coast, California
This wine drinks better than twice its price. Outlier Pinot Noir has pretty cherry-raspberry fruit and rose petal aromas. The fruit flavors are fresh, and the palate impressions supple. Perfectly balanced! This charming wine so over delivers!!
$22.95 2013 Joel et Sylvie Cirotte Le Grand Chemarin, Bue, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France
Fresh vibrancy radiates from the fruit core. From a single block of 67 year old vines planted in 100% clay solis and fermented in stainless steel tanks (60%) and 500 liter barrels (40%). PURE MAGIC!!!
$32.95 2013 Chanin Wine Company Pinot Noir Los Alamos Vineyard, Santa Barbara
"The 2013 Pinot Noir Los Alamos was my favorite of the Pinot Noirs and its transparent ruby color is followed by a beautiful bouquet of subtle strawberries, Asian spices and crushed flowers. Medium-bodied, perfumed and elegant, with a seamless, fine texture, it shines for its purity and class more than for power or richness. Aged 16 months in 10% new French oak, it's a Pinot Noir with class that will drink nicely over the coming 4-5+ years." - 93 points, Wine Advocate.
$54.95 2014 Bortolomiol Prosecco Brut Prior - Valdobbiadena, Veneto, Italy
Clear and clean fragrant fruit notes, especially citrus and tart green apple. Nice frothy mousse! On the palate the wine is dry with good fresh energy and vibrancy. Perfect aperitif, or with smoked fish, sashimi, or sushi rolls! 2016 Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri award!
$17.95 2014 Adega de Moncao Deu la Deu Alvarinho, Vinho Verde DOC, Portugal
Great aromatics with lots of white flower, citrus, guava, stone fruits and a touch of minerality. Juicy and fresh with bright acidity, to the point of salivation.
$19.95 2010 Matthews Claret, Columbia Valley, Washington
This surprising wine delivers all the goods you would expect from a more expensive, serious Cabernet based wine from Northern California. If you missed out, we just found another ten cases! "Fresh and focused, with a sense of transparency to the dark berry and tomato leaf flavors, gliding smoothly into the finish. The fine, firm tannins need cellaring to soften. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2015 through 2020." - 92 points, Wine Spectator.
$35.95 2013 Lewis Cellars Alec's Blend, Napa Valley, California
"Brooding dark boysenberry and smoky mocha aromas combine with layered flavors of blackberry, graphite, nutmeg and brown spice. " - WS 94.
$61.95 2014 Bodegas Esmeralda Tilia Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina
Golden yellow in color, the Tilia Chardonnay has aromas of ripe citrus fruits with subtle floral notes and a touch of vanilla, a contribution made by the oak barrels in which this wine is briefly aged. On the palate, the wine has flavors of pear and tropical fruits with hints of vanilla and spice on the finish. The finish is clean and bright.
$11.95 2013 Mvemve Raats (MR) Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "de Compostella", Stellenbosch, South Africa
I promise the 2013 MR is an utterly profound wine! Tempered with a bedazzling 41% Cabernet Franc (19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Malbec, 14% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot), the aromas blasts off with cedar, graphite, chocolate and wild berries. Palate impressions are explosive, generous and mouth filling, but then caressing and oh soooo smooooth! Perfectly balanced! Total harmony! Fine, supple, round tannins help carry the long tapering finishto the stars (de Compostella!).
$74.95 2011 Duemani "Duemani" Cabernet Franc Costa Tuscany, Italy
"This is layered and beautiful with dark berry, hints of chocolate, and hot stones. Full body with beautiful clarity, density, and depth of fruit. 18 months in new wood, then in cement. A beautiful, focused red. Better in 2018, but a joy to taste now." James Suckling 96 points.
$129.95 2012 Roquette & Cazes, Douro Valley, Portugal
A dark center spreading to the rim with bright violet/purple color. Aroma of fresh wild berries and plum, violets, cardamom and hints of cocoa, with underlying minerality. Full bodied, bright acidity, black fruits, and supple, silky round tannins that complements the wine's structure. Balanced! Very long and complex, with real elegance. Amazing value!
$29.95 2013 Morgenster Proprietary White, Stellenbosch - South Africa
"Morgenster White 2013 was produced in the classic style from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc (51%) and Semillon grapes from vineyards in the Schaapenberg area within a kilometre of Morgenster's cellar. It was 10 months in barrel, 30% being new oak."
$36.95 2012 Piaggia Il Sasso, Carmignano, Tuscana, Italy
"Plush, bursting with black cherry, blackberry and violet aromas and flavors, tinged by spice accents. All the components are in proportion. Dark fruit and spice flavors emerge on the long finish. Drink now through 2020. 1,250 cases made". - 92 points - Wine Spectator (Sept 2015).
$36.50 2009 Thunevin-Calvet Cotes du Roussillon Villages les Dentelles Maury, Roussillon, France
"..In short, it's a no-brainer that also represents a superb value. Drink it over the coming 4-5 years." - 92 points, Wine Advocate.
$39.95 2014 Domaine Mollet-Maudry Sancerre L'Antique, Loire Valley, France
Aromas of white fig, melon rind, and dewy grass-dried hay with an underlying lime-like minerality are attractive and enticing. The palate impressions are restrained and elegant but bolstered by fresh tangy acidity in the lengthy tapered finish. Very classy! Bring on the fresh shucked oysters.
$27.95 2014 Capichera Lintori Bianco (Vermentino), Isole dei Nuraghi, Sardegna, Italy
The entry level Lintori Vermentino is all stainless steel with brief lees contact allowing an appreciation for the true fresh, briny-citrus terroir of Vermentino from the Gallura region in Arzachena.
$25.75 2014 Magna Mater Sauvignon Blanc, Vogelzang Vineyard, Happy Canyon, Santa Barbara
Only 122 cases were produced of this sublime Sauvignon Blanc from a combination of one ton each of Musque & Clone 1 fruit. Both were picked, loaded and pressed together after 20 hours of whole cluster skin contact at 58 degrees. The juice was fermented and aged for 8 months in 35% once and twice-used Sylvain blanc barrels, while the remainder in stainless steel barrels. A long and slow fermentation utilizing battonage stirring to build creaminess on the palate. There was no malolactic fermentation. Alcohol: 13.7%.
$27.95 2014 Cantina Valle Isarco Kerner, Alto Adige, Italy
Dry, full, aromatic with light scent of spicy muscat and nectarine. Fresh, with clean finishing acidity making it the perfect aperitif, or pair with poached seafood or sautéed trout.
$20.95 2013 Le Macchiole Proprietary Red "Rosso" Bolgheri
Last call! Le Macchiole is one of the iconic producers in the coastal Bolgheri region of Tuscany. You should all remember the brilliant 2011 which was Wine Spectator's number 22 wine of the year/Top 100 for 2013 with 93 points.
$30.95 2011 Duseigneur Antares, Lirac, Southern Rhone Valley, France
"The outstanding 2011 Lirac Antares is a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvedre all aged in cement vat after being fermented with indigenous yeasts. From low crop yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare and bottled unfiltered, this is an outstanding wine at a stunningly attractive price.." 90 points, Wine Advocate - Robert Parker.
$22.95 2012 Idlewild Barbera, Fox Hill Vineyard, Mendocino
"Perfumed floral musk and dark fruit. Notes of dusty plum and blackberry with a hint of fig. Lightly angular tannin with mouth-washing acidity to balance. Delicious long finish. Wants food. (ECB) 14.4% Drink 2015-2023. 16.5 points. - Elaine Chukan Brown (Jancis Robinson - August 2015) Try with spicy tomato sauced pastas and sausage.
$32.95 2010 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras
The WINE is a head turner! A youth movement strutting its stuff! Rich, concentrated, focused, and just beaming with radiant cassis-blackcherry fruit, which serves as a backdrop for oodles of nuance and complexity; 96% Cabernet Sauvignon & 4% Merlot - aged for 17 months in 80% new French oak.
$89.95 2012 Formiconi Cisinianum Cesanese di Affile, Lazio, Italy
This is a full-bodied red wine just brimming with the scents of violets, roses, and dark chocolate, then delivering big dark ripe cherries on the palate, and a cascade of youthful tannin to the lengthy finish.
$32.95 2013 Bermejos Malvasia Secco, La Geria-La Florida, Lanzarote DO, Canary Islands, Spain
Dry, crisp and refreshing with good intensity, mineral and volcanic notes; citrus, apple, beeswax with underlying salinity.
$24.95 2008 Palari "Palari" Faro DOC, Sicilia, Italy
The 2008 Palari is from a great vintage where the temperatures were moderate and never too hot. The wine is a thing of mystifying beauty! Restrained and vibrant, still with a refined richness and ripeness, but then a slight bend towards rusticity. What a thrill ride to drink or know it is resting comfortably in a dark cold corner of your cellar!
$89.95 2011 Cantina Terlan Porphyr Riserva, Alto Adige, Italy
"Glass-staining, with plum, hints of anise, red flowers, gravel and dark olive. Layered, complex and hard to resist. Full-bodied. Perfectly integrated, melted tannins. A real triumph. Greatest Lagrein out there. Drink now." - 97 points, James Suckling #10/Top 100 Italian Wines of the Year - October 2014.
$64.95 2012 Ghostwriter Pinot Noir, Aptos Creek Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains
"Vivid ruby-red. High-pitched red berry and floral scents, with zesty mineral and Asian-spice nuances that become more pronounced with air. Sappy and precise on the palate, offering intense raspberry and rose pastille flavors with excellent depth and appealing sweetness. Pure, nervy and spicy on the finish, featuring silky tannins and lingering red and dark berry qualities." - 91 points, Stephen Tanzer.
$46.95 2012 Alberto Nanclares Albariño, Rias Baixas, Galicia, Spain
Alberto Nanclares wines are angular and vin-de-garde in style, with great concentration and crystalline precision. This Albariño is sourced from selected parcels in the parroquias of Castrelo and Padrenda, ranging from thirty to sixty years old, trained in Pergola and planted mainly on granitic, sandy soils. Half of the cuvee was fermented and raised in an old French tina while the other half was fermented and raised in small steel vats for around a year. Bottled with modest levels of SO2 and without clarification or filtration. An acid-driven, profound and classic bottle of Val do Salnes Albariño! Only about 2600 bottles are produced.
$37.95 2012 Elena Fucci Titolo Aglianico del Vulture, Basilicata, Italy
The Titolo Tower is a house on the outskirts of Barile, in the North of Basilicata, immersed between vineyard and olive groves that have been tended to for 4 generations. The story of the Fucci Family, over the last few years, is one of a prestigious wine: Titolo, named after the local volcanic territory in the region.
$49.95 2011 Robert-Denogent "Les Reisses", Pouilly-Fuissé, Macon (Mise de 30 Mois)
Just a few of the very best barrels are aged for another year (30 months) before racking and bottling. This second bottling is distinguished by a special back label designation "Mise de 30 Mois". So limited, it has never been rated. This is the crème de la crème of Pouilly-Fuissé and deserves a special place in your wine cellar, although it will be perfect now with any lobster celebration!!
$49.95 2013 Clos Floridene Blanc Graves, Bordeaux, France
Organically grown, the 2013 Clos Floridene Blanc is a classic Graves blend of 56% Sauvignon Blanc, 43% Semillon, and 1% Muscadelle. Pre-payment is required to order. Estimated time of arrival is early Spring 2015.
$37.95 2012 Les Bosquet des Papes Proprietary Rhone Red "A la Gloire de Mon Grandpere"
One of the great traditional producers of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and almost 100% Grenache except for a dab of Cinsault and Clairette. 60-70 year old vines set in clay and sand. Concrete thermoregulated fermentation for 35 days. 50% stems. 18 months aging in large oak barrels and demi-muids. Great symmetry balance. Powerful, but still restrained dark plums and kirschwasser.
$74.95 2012 Gilles Troullier Syrah "Boreal"
For years Gilles Troullier was the winemaker and cellar master for the legendary Chapoutier wines from Roussillon. Then Troullier began sourcing fruit, and purchased an estate vineyard for his own label. After about five years of very successful production, Chapoutier decided to dismiss him for "insubordination".
$74.95 2012 Sadie Family Wine Proprietary Red "Columella"
Eben Sadie is THE most cult followed winemaker in SA. He still spends up to six months a year making wine in Priorat, and then the other six months back home in SA. He is devoted to locating and nurturing small patches of rare remnant old vines to pioneer his passion for Rhone varietals.
$139.95 2012 Evening Land Pinot Noir Seven Springs Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
"Sleek and silky, brimming with raspberry, blackberry, pear and licorice flavors that come together seamlessly on the long, polished finish. This has depth and presence. Drink now through 2022. 3,149 cases made. 96 points, Wine Spectator - HS (Feb 28, 2015).
$59.95 2012 Sheldon Grenache, Ceja Vineyard, Sonoma
This 2 acre vineyard planted and farmed by Jesus Ceja is located in west Sonoma. The deep rocky soils of ancient river bed are perfectly suited to Grenache, while the proximity to the cooler regions of Carneros a mile to the south, and the Petaluma Wind Gap a mile to the west provide ideal growing conditions.
$39.95 Chelsie Products "Bottle Butler"
On sale at $9.95! Or free upon request with any $50 in store wine purchase. Choice of dark or light stained hardwood. Offer valid while supply lasts!
$3.95 2011 By Ken Forrester (for The Wine Consultant) Roussanne "Barrel Selection"
From a patch of dry farmed, gnarly little old bush vines on a side hill vineyard of decomposing granite sand along the Helderberg Mountain range in Stellenbosch, Ken Forrester has produced this one barrel venture for us resulting in only 40 cases.
$27.95 2010 Ghostwriter Pinot Noir
Kenny Likitprakong organically dry farms this two acre, 25 year old "Aptos Creek" Vineyard himself. Located in Nisene Marks State Park, only about a mile from Monterey Bay, the vineyard sits within the Santa Cruz Mountain AVA on the bank of the Aptos Creek Watershed, but is only about 80 ft from sea level so it does not meet the minimum required for the AVA.
$49.95 2011 Cantina Terlan Sauvignon Blanc "Quarz"
Manual harvest and selection of the grapes; gentle whole cluster pressing and clarification of the must by natural sedimentation; slow fermentation at a controlled temperature and aging on the lees for nine months partly in big wooden barrels (50%) and partly in stainless steel tanks (50%); blending three months before bottling.
$64.95 2010 Aia Vecchia 'Super Tuscan' Proprietary Blend "Sor Ugo"
"Started in 1995, Aia Vecchia counts 42 hectares of vines between properties in Bolgheri and southern Maremma (Magliano in Toscana and Orbetello). At the Bolgheri property, long panoramas of manicured vineyard cut deep into the Mediterranean shrubs that blanket the hillsides.
$38.95 2009 Palmina Tocai Friulano "Subida"
In the Friuli region of Italy, Tocai Friulano (now called Friulano there due to a European Union regulation), is the wine of the people. Ask for a glass of wine in this region, and you will be served Friulano. It is a grape that has its own unique persona, traits and character. And it is a grape that has gott'en under owner/winemaker Steve Clifton's skin.
$29.95 2009 Marc Ollivier Melon de Bourgogne "Domaine de la Pepiere" - MAGNUM
2009 Marc Ollivier Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie: The classic white bottling of Ollivier remains a benchmark for Muscadet. The ripeness on the nose shows off like salted apricots, with lavender, hay, citrus and a soapstone mineral quality.
$59.95 2009 Glenelly Cabernet Sauvignon "Lady May"
Very little imported! Originally, we were overjoyed to receive 10 of the 15 cases for Northern California. Now we have just received the last 3 cases from SoCal so I am going to pull a bottle for the tasting bar so all can sample his wine's greatness!
$64.95 2011 Clos Erasmus Proprietary Priorat Blend "Laurel"
Clos Erasmus was born in an afternoon with the purchase of some old vines of Garnacha by Daphne Glorian, who happened to be in the area visiting some friends. Although she had no intention of purchasing such a plot or starting a winery, her friends (Alvaro Palacios and Rene Barbier) convinced her that amazing wines could be produced here if given the right attention.
$59.95 2011 Dow's Vintage Porto
"Powerful, refined and luscious, with a surplus of dark plum, kirsch and cassis flavors that are unctuous and long. Shows plenty of grip, presenting a long, full finish, filled with Asian spice and raspberry tart accents. Rich and chocolaty. One for the ages. Best from 2030 through 2060. 5,000 cases made." 99 points, Wine Spectator - KM.
$279.95 2011 Ferrer-Bobet Proprietary Priorat Blend "Vinyes Velles"
Many of you will need no introduction to Ferrer/Bobet, as I first introduced this Priorat producer to you when two of the most important wine publications in Spain named the stellar 2005 Ferrer/Bobet their "Wine of the Year"! This debut launched Ferrer-Bobet's mission to create wines of elegance and purity, and the message has resonated with the continued success of the 06 and 07, and now stunning 2008 vintage.
$49.95 2009 Clos Mogador Proprietary Priorat Blend "Clos Mogador" - MAGNUM
The estate of Clos Mogador is a must for any serious Spanish wine aficionado. Located in Gratallops, in the heart of the Priorat hills, René Barbier, one of the founders of the Priorat revolution, creates his intensely concentrated wine from a blend of 40% Garnacha (from 80 year old vines), 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah and 5% Pinot Noir, Mourvedre and Merlot.
$254.95 2012 Boekenhoutskloof Semillon
The year that favored the winemaker! This vintage produced the most balanced wines in South Africa for at least the past decade. Semillon inherently doesn't have high levels of acidity and therefore 2012 provided the perfect conditions for ripening this varietal.
$41.95 2010 Sadie Family Wine Proprietary White "Palladius"
Eben Sadie is THE most cult followed winemaker in SA. He used to spend six months making wine in Priorat, and then the other six months back home in SA. Now he devotes all of time to locating and nurturing small patches of rare remnant old vines to pioneer his passion for Rhone varietals. His wine are the most difficult to obtain, and in tremendous demand by connoisseurs around the world.
$119.95 2010 Tokara Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "Reserve"
I must admit I am giddy about finally finding an importer who is again bringing limited amounts of one of the most coveted wines of the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. We experienced both the excellent wines and restaurant at Tokara on our trip to SA in Jan 2010, only to return to find the wines were no longer available, or imported. Oh, I cringed with despair. All that has changed now.
$39.95 2010 Petrichor Vineyards Syrah "Les Trois"
You likely know that scent. On first learning its meaning, we were transported to those dry, dusty days in summer that are often interrupted by afternoon showers. Scampering for shelter with thunder rumbling overhead, we would pause as this incredible scent arose from the earth.
$47.95 2008 Tenuta di Biserno Proprietary Tuscan Red "di Biserno"
Do you remember Marchese Lodovico Antinori about a decade ago, when he was forced to sell his beloved coastal Bolgherian estate Tenuta dell' Ornellaia to Frescobaldi and Mondavi capitalists? There was much speculation about conspiracy as a few months later his 1998 Tenuta dell' Ornellaia Ornellaia was awarded Wine Spectator's #1 - Wine of the Year. The bitter Lodovico exiled himself to New Zealand for a number of years to lick his wounds.
$199.95 2011 Keermont Vineyards Proprietary Red "Keermont"
Estate blend of 49% Merlot; 33% Cabernet Sauvignon; 12% Cabernet Franc; and 6% Syrah. The core of the wine is based on the original older blocks of Homestead Cabernet Sauvignon and Steepside Merlot to which we have added barrels from our newer sites. This year we are particularly excited to introduce High Road Cabernet Franc to the blend; a block certain to become a regular feature in the Keermont. All grapes used in producing our wines are grown on Keermont Vineyards.
$47.95 2010 Gros Ventre Pinot Noir "First Born"
Gros Ventre Cellars is named after the Gros Ventre River in Jackson Hole Wyoming, where Chris Pittenger met his wife Sarah in 2003. French for "big belly", Gros Ventre became the name for their Pinot Noir project as a tribute to their meeting and two children.
$55.95 2008 Sardus Pater Carignano "Riserva"
Sardus Pater is a cooperative located on the Sant'Antioco islands, just off the southwest coast of Sardinia. The winery was founded in 1949 and today counts over 300 members. Consulting oenologist Riccado Cotarella oversees winemaking.
$29.95 2008 San Giusto a Rentennano Sangiovese "Percarlo"
The 2008 Percarlo is holding back serious power in reserve. A tightly wound core of fruit hits the palate as this energetic, vibrant wine shows off its taut personality. The 2008 needs time to resolve some of its inner tension, but it is strikingly beautiful just the same. Today it reminds me of the 1996, but with more kick and depth. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. - 96 points, Wine Advocate (Antonio Galloni).
$109.95 2011 Matthiasson Family Vineyards Sweet Vermouth (Flora)
This is a sweet Italian-style vermouth that would be great in a cocktail (especially a Negroni) or alone as an aperitif. The wine it is based on is made from a variety called Flora, which was bred at UC Davis by the legendary Harold Olmo back in the 50's.
$24.95 2011 Mvemve Raats (MR) Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "De Compostella"
"The 2011 MR de Compostella comes from separately vinified parcels that are assessed blind after 12 months, the highest rated barrels spending another 12 months in wood, a tripartite mixture of new, one and two-year-old oak. It has a seductive bouquet that is beautifully defined: blackberry, raspberry and blueberry fruit wrapped up in judicious new oak and hints of cedar and sandalwood that come through with time.
$89.95 2008 Elio Grasso Barolo "Ginestra Casa Mate"
Licorice, tar, menthol, spices and crushed rocks are some of the nuances that flow from the 2008 Barolo Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate. This dramatic, large-scaled Barolo impresses for its towering depth, complexity and sheer pedigree.
$109.95 2011 Pieropan Garganega
The 2011 Soave Classico La Rocca is a gorgeous wine and every last drop should be savored. It displays an elegant aromatic embroidery of brimstone, pencil shaving, stone fruit, fresh nectarine and honeysuckle. No one element overshadows the others and the energy and freshness is remarkable.
$29.95 2011 Prats + Symington Proprietary Red "Post Scriptum"
Bruno Prats, was the owner of Chateau Cos Estournel (St. Estephe) from 1970 until he sold the property in 1998; "Cos" is one of Bordeaux most treasured properties and received Second Growth status in the 1855 Classification. But Bruno Prats never has really retired. In fact he has ongoing partnership projects throughout the world; most notably in Portugal, Chile and South Africa.
$24.95 2008 Duemani Cabernet Franc "Duemani"
If you are extremely fortunate, and very educated about the Tuscan wines of Bolgheri, from along the coastal Maremma region of Italy, then you may have tasted or even own some of the extraordinary wines produced at Le Macchiole! Founded in 1975 by Eugenio Campolmi, the very expensive and collectible Le Macchiole wines are by far, more difficult to obtain than Sassicaia or Ornellaia..and pricey too! We had the ultimate pleasure and privilege to taste through the then current Le Macchiole portfolio at the 2011 VinItaly in Verona with Cinzia Merli, the widow of the late founder.
$139.95 2011 Quinta do Crasto Proprietary Douro Red "Reserva"
If you have been following along the last six months, my exclamatory mantra has been to purchase the top dry red table wines produced in the Douro Valley of Portugal from the benchmark 2011 vintage! These are world class wines which showcase the full potential of the region, and will help define why this vintage will be considered a modern classic.
$44.95 2009 Castellare di Castellina Sangiovese "I Sodi di San Niccolo"
Castellare I Sodi has been consecutively awarded Gambero Rosso's most coveted Tre Bicchieri award since the 2001 vintage, including the 2009 vintage!
$89.95 2009 Casa Lapostolle Proprietary Red "Clos Apalta"
The 2005 Clos Apalta was named the #1 Wine-of-the-Year by Wine Spectator in 2008 with a 96 point rating. Now comes the magnificent 2009 vintage with a similar 96 point review.
$94.95 2011 Raventos I Blanc Cava "L'Hereu"
Wine production at Raventos i Blanc started in 1497 when the estate was founded in Sant Sadurni d'Anoia. This date has been authenticated by documents at the estate and recognized by the Spanish Government. The first Cava in Spain was produced here in 1872 by Josep Raventos Fatjo.
$24.95 2014 Sadie Family Wine "Soldaat" Old Vine Grenache, Swartland, South Africa
Eben Sadie is THE most cult followed winemaker in SA. He used to spend six months making wine in Priorat, and then the other six months back home in SA. Now he devotes all of time to locating and nurturing small patches of rare remnant old vines to pioneer his passion for Rhone varietals. His wine are the most difficult to obtain, and in tremendous demand by connoisseurs around the world.
$69.95 2008 Sapaio Proprietary Red "Sapaio"
Tre Bicchieri translates to "three glasses". After 25 volumes of annual publication, Gambero Rosso is recognized as Italy's authoritative tasting guide, and being named a Tre Bicchieri selection is the most coveted award an Italian wine can achieve. The process extends over an 8 month period, and is judiciously undertaken in blind tastings by a panel of nearly 80 professional peers.
$99.95 2009 Knez Winery Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard
I am very pleased to receive one more of the final cases of this beaut, and my favorite of the bevy of great 09 Pinots produced in Anderson Valley. This Saturday let's take a look at what's happened over the last 3 months.
$49.95 2010 Jo-Landron-Domaine de la Louvetrie Melon de Bourgogne "Fief du Breil"
Situated on the upper slopes on the banks of the Sèvre river near Nantes, the Domaine de la Louvetrie is a family run winery possessing 45 hectares of vines, mainly Melon de Bourgogne, the only varietal that goes into Muscadet wine. Since 2000, the vineyards have been farmed organically with the goal of making top flight wines that compare favorably to any others grown in the area.
$22.95 2011 Gardienne des Vignes Winery Zinfandel "Sanctuary" Black Sears
Let's celebrate! We finally found a spectacular, mouthfilling, California Zin that does not veer off course, and is distinctive to place. Beware! Only 105 cases were produced from two rows of the famed Howell Mountain Black Sears Vineyard which were previously contracted to Turley.
$42.95 2011 Knez Winery Chardonnay
This stunning patch of land at an elevation of 1400 to 1700 ft was planted 30 years ago by the Demuth family. Deeper topsoil leads to sturdy, healthy vines that produce complex flavor profiles. Chardonnay, totaling eight acres, is entirely comprised of old Wente clone. The age of the vines enable the vineyards to be dry farmed to improve sustainability.
$34.15 2011 Piaggia Cabernet Franc "Poggio de' Colli"
This was my favorite wine at last year's 2014 SF Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri tasting event. If I could only purchase ONE wine from the tasting, this would be IT!! Our importer confirmed receipt of only 180 bottles of this unblended, 100% varietal Cabernet Franc. We promptly sold out of our 66 bottle allocation of this extraordinary wine. Now here it is a year later, and we are very happy to report we have just received a final 12 bottles!!!
$89.95 2011 Mullineux Family Vineyards Syrah
Grapes for the 2011 Syrah were sourced from six vineyard parcels in different parts of the Swartland: Three parcels planted in the stony Shale and Schist based soils of Riebeek Kasteel Mountain; two parcels of dry land, bushvines grown in the decomposed Granite of the Paardeberg mountain; and one on the rolling, iron-rich soils west of Malmesbury.
$39.95 2010 Sadie Family Wine Proprietary Red "Columella"
Eben Sadie is THE most cult followed winemaker in SA. He used to spend six months making wine in Priorat, and then the other six months back home in SA. Now he devotes all of time to locating and nurturing small patches of rare remnant old vines to pioneer his passion for Rhone varietals. His wine are the most difficult to obtain, and in tremendous demand by connoisseurs around the world.
$149.95 2011 Sheldon Pinot Noir Roma's Vineyard
The 2011 Roma's was the smallest crop to date, yielding just one ton per acre. The wind and rain were brutal in late October as we held out for that last little bit of ripening, just barely breaking 22 brix. Most winemakers would be scared off by such challenging conditions and low sugars. but it is what draws us to this wild and remote location.
$43.15 2008 Bodegas Viñátigo Baboso Negro, Ycoden-Daute-Isora DO, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain - $44.95
Ycoden-Daute-Isora DO (Denominación de Origen) occupies the western tip of Tenerife in the Canarias archipelago (Canary Islands) of Spain. It is one of the most dynamic DOs in the region, as adventurous local producers have combined modern techniques with a rich tradition in winemaking. Recognition for this quality-focused approach came in 1994, when the area received DO status.
$44.95 2009 Ferrer-Bobet "Seleccio Especial"
100% Carinena (Carignan) from 100+ year old vines. Brilliant, deep, dark scarlet red color! Compelling black and purple fruits dominate the nose, and provide saturation for the 100% new French oak. A touch of cedar, pulverized stone minerality, and a fleeting hint of witch hazel add attractive aroma nuance.
$109.95 2008 Caiarossa 'Super Tuscan' Proprietary Blend Pergolaia"
Drinking exceptionally well at this moment, the 2008 Pergolaia is a blend of Sangiovese (85%), Merlot (10%), Cabernet Franc (3%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (2%) from estate vineyards near Riparbella in the northern coastal Bolgheri - Val di Cecina region of Tuscany. This young property is owned by Eric Albada Jelgersma, who also owns Chateau Giscours and Chateau du Tertre in Bordeaux.
$33.95 2008 Fattoria di Felsina Sangiovese "Fontalloro"
Felsina is the house Giuseppe Mazzocolin built, to borrow a phrase from Babe Ruth and the original Yankee Stadium. Last year Mazzocolin decided to step back from his insane day to day schedule running the winery. While Mazzocolin remains intimately involved in the winery, the future leadership of Felsina is in the hands of Giovanni Poggiali, the oldest son of proprietor Giuseppe Poggiali.
$54.95 2010 Cantina Terlan Lagrein "Porphyr"
$69.95 2009 Bodegas Muga Tempranillo "Selección Especial Reserva"
Powerful yet harmonious, this rich red delivers black cherry, licorice, fresh herb, smoke and mineral flavors that mingle seamlessly over firm, well-integrated tannins, while balsamic-tinged acidity drives the flavors through the long, spicy finish. Drink now through 2025. 4,000 cases made. TM 95 points, Wine Spectator (Sept 2013).
$42.95 2011 Suavia "Massifitti" (Trebbiano)
The Tessari family has lived and worked on this land in the hill top village of Fitta in the Soave Classico since the nineteenth century. Suavia pays tribute the original name of region dating back to the middle ages.
$34.95 2011 Gunderloch Riesling "Rothenberg"
Rothenberg is an Erste Lage-classified vineyard that marks the head of the Roter Hang (Red Slope). Reaching as far south as Nierstein at a latitude of almost 50 degrees north, the Red Slope is one of the most northern wine-growing regions in the world. It is planted to Riesling and Silvaner, and often regarded as the producer of the best wines in the Rheinhessen.
$47.95 2012 Vie di Romans Pinot Grigio "Dessimis"
Vie di Romans practices organic agriculture. For the last 30 years, they have followed integrated insect and disease control. This agricultural technique requires the minimum use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and fungus control. No fertilizers or insecticides are used and pests are managed naturally. Fungus is controlled by alternating different molecules around the plant. All treatments cease fifty days before the harvest to prevent residues in the wines.
$39.95 2007 Voliero Brunello di Montalcino "Casato"
The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino is striking in this vintage, just as it was in 2006. Freshly cut flowers, spices, mint, licorice and tobacco are some of the many notes that jump from the glass in this highly expressive, engaging Brunello.
$99.95 2011 Wagner Stempel Riesling "Vom Porphyr"
Siefersheim is located in the extreme north-east of the German region known as Rheinhessen, just a few kilometres south-east of the town of Bad Kreuznach, amidst a landscape of steep hills of volcanic origin, interspersed with heath, untouched brooks and small streams, old stone quarries and overgrown walls built of rocks, the gateway to the region known as the "Rheinhessische Schweiz" (Switzerland of Rheinhessen).
$39.95 2009 Domaine de Trévallon Proprietary Red "Boûches du Rhône"
Towering above the picturesque villages of Saint Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux de Provence, the wind-swept Alpilles mountains, with their carved, tooth-like peaks, form a solid barrier between the Camargue to the south and Avignon to the north. Tucked at the bottom of this rock wall are a few estates enveloped in this serene beauty of Provence of which one, Domaine de Trévallon, is by far the most famous and is the paradoxical standard bearer for the region.
$69.95 2010 Bernaveleva Grenache "Vina Bonita"
Bernabeleva. Here, on the eastern edge of Spain's Sierra de Gredos mountains, a renowned Madrid doctor named Vincente Alvarez-Villamil purchased land in 1923. The site, which at that time was a full day's travel from Madrid (now about 75 minutes along the new freeway), spoke of its Celtic past, with ancient bears carved from boulders to mark forests dedicated to the hunt goddess.
$49.95 2011 Quinta do Vallado Proprietary Douro Red Tinto"
Quinta do Vallado, established in 1716, is one of the oldest and most famous "Quintas" in the Douro Valley. It once belonged to the legendary Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, and still belongs to her descendents.
$27.95 2009 Agricola Punica Carignano "Barrua"
Agricola Punica is one of the most famous names in the world for the wine production, as it is a joint-venture between Mr. Sebastiano Rosa, the wine growers' associat-ion of Santadi, the San Guido Estate, Antonello Pilloni, the President of Santadi and the renowned Tuscan wine expert, Mr. Giacomo Tachis.
$39.95 2007 Tenuta dell' Ornellaia "Ornellaia", Bolgheri Superiore DOC, Tuscana, Italy
2007 began with a very mild Winter, with less rainfall than usual. As a result bud break occurred about 10 days early. Spring was mild too, with rains coming just when they were required, which allowed excellent vegetative growth and led the vines to flower early.
$279.95 2010 Castello di Ama Sangiovese San Lorenzo "Gran Selezione"
Castello di Ama is a legendary and top tier producer from the Chianti Classico, with many of its other best wines with Gran Selezione designation (Bellavista and La Cusuccia) released at $200+ a bottle.
$89.95 2011 Suertes del Marques Listan Negro "La Solana", Valle de la Orotava DO, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Two years ago in July we traveled to the Canary Islands to research the wines produced from ungrafted rootstock growing in the volcanic "soils" of this archipelago chain of Spanish islands off the coast of Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean.
$28.95 2012 Bodega Miquel y Ruano Verdejo "Loess"
Stainless steel fermentation until dry, then resting on the lees for a few months before bottling. Citrus, mineral, brining aromas. Vibrant and fresh acidity awash and cleanse the palate. What a delightful mouthful of high energy white wine. Perfect with fresh shucked oysters, or other shell fish. Attractive packaging adds to the temptation.
$22.50 2010 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Griffin's Lair
Arnot-Roberts was Founded in 2001 in Healdsburg, CA by childhood friends, Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts. The focus of this two person operation is on small lot, single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, as well as several other varieties uncommon in Northern Californian vineyards. Sites are carefully chosen and are generally on the cooler end of the spectrum for the planted varieties. Collaboration with dedicated and passionate growers is paramount in the farming of these sites.
$87.95 2010 Domaine Pallières Grenache "Terrasse du Diable"
Northwest-facing hillside terraces in the most northerly reaches of the appellation. This selection, created for the 2009 vintage, comes entirely from parcels in the lieu-dit of Les Pallières, around the cellars and vat room in the lower part of the estate, at an average altitude of about 250 metres.
$49.95 2012 Chanin Wine Company Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict
Gavin Chanin is on everyone's "to watch" list. The young 25 year old UCLA graduate was the assistant winemaker at Au Bon Climat and Qupe for the last eight years. With over 15 harvests under his belt (alternating between the northern and southern hemisphere), Gavin's panache for picking prime sourced Chardonnay and Pinot Noir fruit at earlier ripeness to moderate alcohol, and his minimalistic approach to natural winemaking has made his wines the immediate rage.
$69.95 2013 Elena Walch Gewurztraminer Kastelaz
Perhaps the purest expression of this magnificent varietal, Elena Walch's Kastelaz Gewurztraminer has now been awarde the coveted Tre Bicchieri award by Gambero Rosso the last 3 consecutive vintages. 2011 vintage of Elena Walch's Kastelaz Gewurztraminer is a DRY expression of the varietal, and just brimming with bright, vibrant fruit that exudes spice, rose petals and lychee. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
$39.95 2010 Schäfer-Fröhlich Riesling "Felseneck"
The Gault-Millau/German Wine Guide in 2005 chose Tim Fröhlich as newcomer of the year and just a few years later in 2010 as the youngest winemaker of the year ever. In 1998 he stepped into a virtually unknown estate and shaped it into one of the top Nahe estates in a very short period of time.
$49.95 2007 Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino
The Uccelliera estate, located in the warm southern Castelnuovo dell'Abate part of the Montalcino zone, was part of the neighboring Ciacci Piccolomini estate until 1986. Proprietor Andrea Cortonesi recently added two hectares adjacent to Ciacci's famous "Pianrosso" vineyard; the property now totals six hectares. All work in the vineyard is done by hand.
$79.95 2010 Orma Proprietary Tuscan Red "Orma" Bolgheri Superiore DOC
Gambero Rosso has awarded Orma its most coveted Tre Bicchieri award now 5 consecutive vintages (2006 - 2010)! I call this magnificent wine the J. Phelps Insignia of Bolgheri! One of my Top Five favorites of this year's 2014 Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri tasting in San Francisco!
$109.95 2009 Chateau Puech-Haut Mourvedre "Bosc Negre"
Introducing Frenchman Gerald Bru, a true perfectionist who's heritage, money, determination, and passion were found acceptable enough by the locals in the early 1990s to begin building Chateau Peuch-Haut in the small village of Saint-Drézéry. Saint-Drézéry is about 10 miles northeast of Montepellier on the hillsides of Cevennes within the Herault region, and belonging to the AOC Coteaux du Languedoc.
$69.95 2006 Morgenster Proprietary Bordeaux Blend
OMG! Maybe the best "value" Cabernet Sauvignon blend of the year! Already 8+ years old, and the wine has aged perfectly with more to go! Bless our importer's darling heart for laying this "old world" Bordeaux styled "new world" treasure on us! But fair warning, there are only 168 bottles available, and it will take about ten days to bring them out from NY where they have resided lost in a cold dark corner of a warehouse. What a rare opportunity! Original price $69!
$84.95 2009 Clos Mogador Proprietary Priorat Blend "Clos Mogador"
The estate of Clos Mogador is a must for any serious Spanish wine aficionado. Located in Gratallops, in the heart of the Priorat hills, René Barbier, one of the founders of the Priorat revolution, creates his intensely concentrated wine from a blend of 40% Garnacha (from 80 year old vines), 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah and 5% Pinot Noir, Mourvedre and Merlot.
$109.95 2012 Celler Cecilio Proprietary Priorat Blend "Black Slate"
A day does not go by when I am asked about the next release of Black Slate. For those of you new to the store, Black Slate is the show stopper red wine value from Priorat; a small, remote, dry, arid, mountaineous region south of Barcelona where ancient terraced vineyards of Garnacha and Cariñena were rediscovered in the mid 1980's, and then nurtured back to health after nearly a century of neglect.
$22.95 2012 Carlos Puenta Malbec "Vistalba" C
Carlos Pulenta was the former president and CEO of the Salentein winery before leaving to start his own high-end operation in the Vistalba section of Lujan de Cuyo in the Mendoza region of Argentina. If you are intending to travel to the area, know Pulenta's modern, "Crillo" or Argentine native style Bodega Vistalba winery was built in 2002, and offers first class inn accommodations, and the renown La Bourgogne restaurant, considered one of Argentina's finest dining venues.
$14.50 2012 Francoise Chidaine Chenin Blanc
From a single vineyard parcel on one of the highest points in the appellation. The soils here are comprised of silex (flint) and a small amount of clay over limestone bedrock. Always vinified dry, this is one of the purest expressions of Montlouis that one can find. Plenty of minerals, pear and some quince in the nose, the acidity is crisp and intense giving way to a full wine that opens up over the palate leaving more quince and river rock sensations.
$29.95 2012 Edetaria Proprietary Rhone White "Edetana"
White Garnacha and Viognier are hand sorted at harvest, and then a small component is traditionally foot trodden in cement largares. The must is refrigerated at 0 degrees C, which helps prevent oxidation; then fermentation occurs separately and spontaneously using indigenous yeast!
$21.95 2012 Mvemve Raats (MR) Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "De Compostella"
The 2012 vintage in Stellenbosch, South Africa was ideal for intense flavor development, and even in lesser vintages, that is exactly what we have learned to always expect from the Mvemve Raats de Compostella ("compilation or field of stars").
$79.95 2010 Carlos Puenta Proprietary Red "Vistalba" B
We first experienced Carlos Pulenta's 2003 vintage of Vistalba Corte B when we traveled to Argentina in January of 2007. At the time, this primarily Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon blend also included a Merlot component. We introduced this vintage to our customers, who promptly embraced the wine's attractive price, and its affinity to pair with grilled beef.
$26.95 2013 Hatzidakis Assyrtiko Santorini, Greece
Hatzidakis Winery was founded in 1997 by Haridimos and Konstantina Hatzidakis. Konstantina's family owns vineyards in the village of Pyrgos Kallistis, on the road that leads to the monastery of Prophet Ilias. The land had not been cultivated since 1956, when the earthquake on Santorini forced her parents to leave the island.
$20.95 2012 Herencia Altes Garnacha Negra
While Terra Alta is not yet a well-known region - tucked away in the south eastern corner of Catalonia it borders Aragón and Valencia - it is one of the largest areas in Catalunya under vine. With plenty of old Garnatxa bush vines, I think it is among the best regions in terms of quality, value and authenticity.
$10.95 2012 Le Macchiole Proprietary Red "Rosso" Bolgheri
We were blessed with two extra cases at delivery, so we decided to share this new beaut with you!!! Sample at the tasting bar this Saturday afternoon, October 4th. First come!
$29.95 2012 Capcanes Proprietary Priorat Blend "Mas Donis Barrica"
Medium ruby with violet shades; very nice texture and mouth feel; wild red and black berry flavors, cherry, spices and herbs; well integrated elegant smooth vanilla oaky toasty notes; ripe mouthful and complex on the palate: loads of sweet vibrant fruit; medium to full-bodied with soft and velvet tannins and nicely refreshing finish.
$14.95 2012 Louis Michel Chardonnay
The Michel family have been cultivating their passion for tradition and the Chablis terroir since 1850. The winery is situated right in the heart of the village, with the 25-hectare vineyard spread over the very first slopes that were discovered by Cistercian monks in the 11th century. Forty years ago, the family decided to stop making the wine in wooden barrels, preferring to create clean, pure and precise Chablis without adding artificial woody tastes.
$35.95 2007 Reinhold Haart Riesling "Goldtröpfchen" Spatlese
Theo Haart was chosen Winemaker of the Year in 2007 by the Gault-Millau/German Wine Guide. The Haart family has had a presence in the vineyards of Piesport dating back to 1337. It is the oldest winegrowing family in the important wine growing village of Piesport and today hands down its best wine estate. A large Roman (3rd century) wine press and precious Diatretglas (ornate Roman drinking vessel) unearthed at the foot of the Goldtröpfchen vineyard adjacent to the Haart estate bear witness to the importance and quality of Piesport's vineyards.
$49.95 2007 Mvemve Raats (MR) Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "De Compostella"
MR de Compestella!! Is a proprietary Bordeaux blend, quietly celebrating the first collaboration of a white and black winemaking team in South Africa. Yes, the M stand for Mzokhana Mvemve, and the R for Bruwer Raats. Both are highly respected winemakers who have combined talents and impeccible fruit sourcing to create this tour de force wine.
$124.95 2007 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino
Black cherry and black tea aromas follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a succulent finish. Wonderful combination of bright acidity and savory fruit. Will age wonderfully. Better in 2015. (1/ 2012) - 95 points James Suckling.
$79.95 2012 Lutum Pinot Noir
Lutum, which is Latin for dirt or soil, and is a specific reference to produced wines showcasing distinctiver terroir. It is the long anticipated partnership and project of young winemaker Gavin Chanin and Bill Prince, owner of Classic Wines, and a owner of Durrell Vineyard, Kistler, Kosta Browne, and 3 Sticks.
$53.95 2007 La Cantina Dettori Vermentino "Bianco"
The 2007 Bianco is one of the most unusual Vermentinos readers are likely to come across. Dettori's Bianco is a rich, honeyed white that impresses for its richness and density. Tangerine peel, roasted nuts and light honey develop in the glass.
$49.95 2008 Cantina Terlan Lagrein "Riserva" Gries, Alto Adige
93 points from Wine Spectator (Oct 2011) - "Attractive now, but has the stuffing to age. Best from 2013 through 2023. 250 cases imported." "The alluvial soils in the Bolzano suburb of Gries are ideal for the indigenous red Lagrein wine, which is mentioned in a historical document dated 1379. Lagrein Gries is impressive for its fruity berry aromas as well as for its noble spicy notes and juicy balanced body."
$34.95 2008 Tenuta di Biserno Proprietary Tuscan Red "Il Pino"
"The 2008 Il Pino di Biserno is a rich wine endowed with considerable depth. Plums, blackberries, exotic spices, mocha and licorice are all woven together in this imposing, structured wine. The pedigree of the 2008 vintage comes through in spades. The 2008 is striking. I can't wait to see how this ages. The 2008 has come along beautifully since I tasted it last year.
$74.95 2010 Donnafugata Zibibbo "Ben Rye"
Founded by a Sicilian family with 150 years of premium winemaking experience, Donnafugata means "fleeing woman" and refers to Queen Maria Carolina, who in the 19th century took refuge in western Sicily where the vineyards are today.
$49.95 2007 Sapaio Proprietary Red "Sapaio"
Massimo Piccin planted Podere Sapaio's oldest vineyards in 1999 between the communes of Castagneto Carducci and Bibbona in the Bolgheri region of Italy's Tuscan coastline. What many Americans fail to realize is this area produces world class Cabernet Sauvignon, along with its sibling "Bordeaux" varietals, particularly Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
$99.95 2011 Vie di Romans Proprietary White "Flor di Uis"
"Gianfranco Gallo makes some of the beautiful white wines available in Italy today. He has brilliantly captured the essence of Friuli thanks to the clarity of the aromas in his wines, from both indigenous and international grapes, and the profoundly moving manner in which they caress the palate. They are silky, smooth and delightful.
$33.95 2010 Bodegas y Vinedos Tamaral Tempranillo
Founded in 1997 in Penafiel, Bodegas y Vinedos Tamaral is a small family run winery. Winemakers Nicola Tucci and Francisco J. Gallego farm around 50 hectares.
$29.95 2008 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino
$72.95 2007 Fattoria di Felsina Cru Rancia "Riserva" MAGNUM
If you were to cut proprietor Giuseppe Mazzocolin's veins the man would bleed Sangiovese, such is his passion for Tuscany's most important native grape. Mazzocolin has a terrific set of new releases on his hands. The 2007s are glorious and rich, if an earlier maturing style than the firmer 2006s.
$129.95 2007 Fattoria di Felsina Sangiovese "Fontalloro" MAGNUM
If you were to cut proprietor Giuseppe Mazzocolin's veins the man would bleed Sangiovese, such is his passion for Tuscany's most important native grape. Mazzocolin has a terrific set of new releases on his hands. The 2007s are glorious and rich, if an earlier maturing style than the firmer 2006s. 2007 is another superb vintage for fans of this venerable property.
$129.95 2007 Fattoria di Felsina Rancia "Riserva"
If you were to cut proprietor Giuseppe Mazzocolin's veins the man would bleed Sangiovese, such is his passion for Tuscany's most important native grape. Mazzocolin has a terrific set of new releases on his hands. The 2007s are glorious and rich, if an earlier maturing style than the firmer 2006s. 2007 is another superb vintage for fans of this venerable property.
$64.95 2007 Elio Grasso Barolo "Ginestra Casa Mate"
AGAIN! TRE BICCHIERI!! WHAT A WINE!! These 2007 Baroli from Elio Grasso are worthy successors to the stunning 2006s. Readers will have to wait until 2012 for the 2006 Barolo Runcot. The more time passes, the greater my esteem grows for this underappreciated and often overlooked grower in Monforte.
$129.95 2007 de Trafford Chenin Blanc "Straw Wine"
The first of its kind in South Africa! Chenin Blanc grapes are laid out to dry on racks ( or straw ). This raisining process concentrates the sugar, acidity and fruit flavours to produce a luscious, sweet dessert wine. Fermented and matured in new French and American oak barrels for extra richness.
$49.95 2011 Prats + Symington Proprietary Red "Chryseia"
Bruno Prats, was the owner of Chateau Cos Estournel (St. Estephe) from 1970 until he sold the property in 1998; "Cos" is one of Bordeaux most treasured properties and received Second Growth status in the 1855 Classification. But Bruno Prats never has really retired. In fact he has ongoing partnership projects throughout the world; most notably in Portugal, Chile and South Africa.
$99.95 2012 Bodega Garzon Tannat
to be..or Tannat to be? What does it mean? It means, if you are not familiar with the red Tannat grape, it's time to become, especially as it is grown and produced in URUQUAY! Maybe I should also double edge this by saying, it is also time to realize this small South American country is producing seriously appealing wines with extraordinary value.
$19.95 2007 Clos Mogador Proprietary Priorat Blend "Clos Mogador"
Our first exposure to great Priorat was the 2000 Clos Mogador while on our honeymoon in Barcelona in 2004. Since that time, we have had a real love affair with the wines from this remote region named after the priory - the Scala Dei monestary referenced in the Da Vinci Code.
$109.95 2012 Gardienne des Vignes Winery Zinfandel "1915" Kirschenmann Vineyard
Don't faint. As you know, not only do I rarely stock Zinfandel, but here is another Adam Webb Gardienne des Vignes Zinfandel you can NOT afford to miss. You should recall, I recently introduced you to his 2011 Sanctuary Zin from Black Sears Vineyard a top Howell Mountain. Also, Webb's 2012 Ghost Clones Petite Sirah won many hearts at our tasting bar a few weeks back. WHAT?!?!? This latest Zin, the "1915" is from the Lodi AVA! What is this world coming to?
$19.95 2007 Clos Marie Proprietary Red "Metairies du Clos"
We visited Clos Marie in July of 2007 and spent a late afternoon barrel tasting with Christophe Peyrus in his cellar.
$44.95 2007 Clos Marie Proprietary Red "Metairies du Clos"
We visited Clos Marie in July of 2007 and spent a late afternoon barrel tasting with Christophe Peyrus in his cellar.
$44.95 2007 Chene Bleu Proprietary Red "Abelard"
More dense and structured, yet still vibrant and very pure, the 2007 Abelard is 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah. Loaded with deep blackberry and black cherry fruit, licorice, crushed stone and hints of roasted herbs, it is full-bodied, rich and concentrated, with knockout precision and focus. It is serious stuff and still a baby. Drink it over the coming decade. - 95 points.
$99.95 2012 Red Car Chardonnay
Yowser! Red Car has really done an about face and changed its ultra modern style to non-intervention, restrained ripeness, less new oak, and lower alcohol. Congrats!!
$39.95 2012 Precedent Riesling "Old Vine White"
This is Nathan Kandler's first independent production. Nathan has worked for multiple wineries in Northern California (Benzinger, Frick, Schug and Testarossa) and spent time working for the famed Torbreck Winery in the Barossa Valley of Australia.
$24.95 2013 Odoardi Savuto DOC, Calabria, Italy
"Odoardi is one of the most historical names of the Southern Italian wine world. The family has owned the 270 hectares of the beautiful estate located near the village of Nocera Torinese for more than 5 centuries and has always produced wine there." - Gambero Rosso.
$19.95 2008 Elio Altare Barolo Arborina
The 2008 Barolo Arborina is gorgeous for the way it combines layers of fleshy dark fruit in the medium-bodied style of the year. Dark red cherries, flowers, spices and minerals are some of the notes that emerge from this beautiful, polished Barolo. The 2008 is all class and elegance. Layers of fruit meld together on the polished finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2033.
$99.95 2010 Gros Ventre Pinot Noir Baranoff Vineyard
Gros Ventre Cellars is named after the Gros Ventre River in Jackson Hole Wyoming, where Chris Pittenger met his wife Sarah in 2003. French for "big belly", Gros Ventre became the name for their Pinot Noir project as a tribute to their meeting and two children.
$47.95 2013 Quintodecimo Greco di Tufo "Giallo d'Arles"
Proprietor Luigi Moio, a renown enologist, continues to set the bar high, very high indeed, at his small property in Taurasi, Campania. Embarking on his own project Quintodecimo in 2001, Moio's rich, textured whites and reds have become some of the most exciting wines being made in Italy today. One should never miss a chance to drink them!
$55.95 2008 Mvemve Raats (MR) Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "De Compostella"
MR de Compestella!! Is a proprietary Bordeaux blend, quietly celebrating the first collaboration of a white and black winemaking team in South Africa. Yes, the M stand for Mzokhana Mvemve, and the R for Bruwer Raats. Both are highly respected winemakers who have combined talents and impeccable fruit sourcing to create this tour de force wine. Mvemve is finishing his MBA studies, while producing his stellar boutique wine Sagila. Bruwer Raats is a farmer who has dedicated himself to the study of every inch of Stellenbosch terroir.
$139.95 2010 Chiappini Proprietary Tuscan Red "Guado dei Gemoli"
The 2010 Giovanni Chiappini Guado dei Gemoli - Bolgheri Superiore DOC, Toscana received only 95 points from Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate's Italian specialist Monica Larner, instead of the perfect 100 points she awarded the 2009.
$99.95 2007 Casanova di Neri Sangiovese "Tenuta Nuova"
This is not the perfect 100-point 2006, but damn close. Loads of black cherries and spices on the nose. Full-bodied, with a beautiful core of fruit. Long and gorgeous finish. This is so long and beautiful to taste. Lasts for minutes. - 97 points, James Suckling.
$99.95 2007 Bodegas Viñátigo Tintilla, Ycoden-Daute-Isora DO, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Here is a very unique and intriguing wine you'll have a difficult time finding anywhere except the Island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. A red grape grown at higher elevations along the steep volcanic slopes of the world's third highest volcano Mt. Teide in the Ycoden Duate Isora DO on the northwest side of the island.
$34.95 2007 Bodegas Orben Tempranillo "Malpuesto"
But, not all is so rosy for lesser known producers in Spain! Many fine wines with great reviews continue to languish unsold. The Wine Consultant has been at the forefront finding "close outs" from Priorat, Rioja and Ribera del Duero that have gone unsold because they were unknown or overpriced marketing disasters.
$59.95 2012 Tokara Proprietary White "Reserve"
I must admit I am giddy about finding an importer who is again bringing limited amounts of one of the most coveted wines of the Stellenbosch region of South Africa to the US market.
$39.95 2009 Maurodos Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo) "San Roman"
Bodegas y Vinedos Maurodos is one of the leading lights of Toro. Founded in 1997 by former Vega Sicilia winemaker Mariano Garcia Fernandez, they own 60 hectares of vineyard in San Roman de Villaester and Hornija, mainly planted with Tinta de Toro and Garnacha, the average age of vines around 35 years interpolated with vines on un-grafted rootstock.
$62.95 2007 Capanna Brunello di Montalcino
"Capanna's offering in 2007 is extremely bold, dark and opulent. Loads of aromatic momentum in the form of blackberry, cherry liqueur, spice, leather, tobacco, rum cake, cinnamon, vanilla bean and bitter chocolate characterize the bouquet. The wine also shows a soft, ripe, generous texture, yet remains well-contained and balanced." - M.L. (5/1/2012) - 97 points, Wine Enthusiast.
$79.95 2010 Black Cordon Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
2010 Black Cordon Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa Valley! Paul Hobbs produces this "purple-black coal" beauty for David and Karen Dunphy, with the fruit coming primarily from their Mt. Veeder and Yountville estate vineyards.
$69.95 2011 Cantina Terlan Pinot Bianco "Riserva" Vorberg
Although it seems Cantina Terlan's icon "Quarz" expression of Sauvignon Blanc garners most of the attention (new vintage in stock and again rated 95 points by James Suckling), Vorberg Pinot Bianco continues to quietly build its own cult following for one of the finest expressions of Pinot Bianco, not only in Alto Adige, but anywhere in Italy.
$37.50 2012 Soter Pinot Noir "Estate - Mineral Springs Ranch, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Tony Soter was formerly a Napa Valley superstar winemaker; best known for his winemaking at Etude, however Tony was also put in stints as the winemaker at Araujo, Niebaum-Coppola, Shafer, Spottswoode, Viader and Dalle Valle.
$64.95 2012 Inama Garganega "Vigneti di Foscarino"
The 2012 Soave Classico Vigneti di Foscarino shows added heft and sophistication with slightly denser consistency and apparent aromas of stone fruit and creamy melon. It ages for six months in neutral oak. Those telltale Soave notes of flint and crushed mineral give the wine elegance, focus and linearity. This is a lovely white to pair with informal vegetable tempura or fried calamari. Drink 2013-2017.
$24.95 2010 Piaggia Proprietary Tuscan Red "Riserva"
We had the opportunity to taste this incredible wine at the SF Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri tasting in SF last February. Even though the 10 Riserva was not awarded the coveted award, like its counterpart, the Poggio de' Colli (my favorite of the entire tasting), I was almost equally smitten by it. The soft, but "full lipped" tannins are carressingly seductive, and make this wine irresistible. Our importer is receiving only 240 bottles. We have an allocation of 60 bottles.
$53.95 2011 Lemos & van Zeller Proprietary Douro Red "Quinta do Vale Dona Maria"
Christian van Zeller is the former owner of Quinta du Noval. Quinta do Vale D. Maria is situated in the Rio Torto Valley and has about 10 hectares of 65+ year old vines.
$69.95 2007 Fattoria Petrolo Merlot "Galatrona"
Petrolo is situated in the area known as the Colli Aretini, bordering on the Chianti Hills, a historical area delimited in 1716 by the Grand Duke of Tuscany Cosimo III de' Medici as a particularly valuable land for wine and olive oil.
$134.95 2007 Chene Bleu Proprietary Red "Heloise"
Moving to the reds and a perfumed, lightly textured and elegant effort, the 2007 Heloise is 60% Syrah, 37% Grenache and the balance Viognier, that's vinified separately before blending prior to bottling.
$99.95 2006 Tenuta San Leonardo Proprietary Bordeaux Blend "San Leonardo"
Sure, you maybe familiar with the iconic Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon based wines like Sassicaia and Ornellaia that sell for $200+ a bottle at release and are highly prized by international collectors!
$79.95 2006 Tenuta dell' Ornellaia, "Ornellaia", Bolgheri Superiore DOC, Tuscana, Italy
Tenuta dell'Ornellaia is situated on the Via Bolgherese in a triangle between the sea, the medieval hamlet of Bolgheri and the town of Castagneto Carducci. To get there, one travels up part of the historic 'cypress avenue' celebrated by the poet Giosuè Carducci. The estate comprises 240 acres planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
$289.95 2006 Siro Pacenti Brunello di Montalcino
97 points James Suckling: "I can't believe how the nose changes from white truffle to berry and black cherry and then goes blueberries and citrus fruits. Full and soft and velvety. It is layered and massive with so much going on. Now sweet tobacco and berries. A wine that is in evolution every moment.
$109.95 2006 Pierre Usselgio Proprietary Rhone Red "Traditional"
Depending upon the vintage, typically the Cuvee Traditional is composed of 75% Grenache, with Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault making up the remaining 25 percent. Aged for up to 18 month in large Foudres (used oak casks).
$74.95 2006 Pierre Usselgio Proprietary Rhone Red "Mon Aieul"
The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Mon Aieul is one of the vintage's most majestic wines. Again, a blend of 95% old vine Grenache intermixed with 5% Syrah aged totally in tank, the wine has remarkable density, an inky bluish/purple color, and a fabulously multi-dimensional, fleshy mouthfeel with tremendous purity and depth.
$119.95 2006 Paul Avril Proprietary Rhone Red "Clos des Papes"
The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape (15.2% alcohol, with essentially the same technical statistics as the 2005) is a completely different animal in terms of tasting.
$124.95 2006 Paolo Conterno Barolo
There are other Conterno producers in Barolo, but I have never had the opportunity to taste a Paolo Conterno Barolo, let alone its Ginestra. I have always favored Elio Grasso's Barolo from the commune of Monforte d'Alba in Barolo, especially his expressions from the Ginestra Casa Mate..and in particular the string of great vintages 2006, 07, and 08.
$99.95 2006 Mas Doix Proprietary Priorat Blend "Costers de Vinyes Velles"
The Doix family originates from Poboleda and has been in the winemaking business in the region for the last 5 generations. As far back as the late 1800's the property has been recognized by the quality of their vinous fruit, but it wasn't until 1998 when Ramon Llagostera took over the leadership of the property that the wines began to experience worldwide fame.
$164.95 2006 Marizano Abbona Barolo "Terlo Ravera"
Raspberry, cherry, iron and floral notes mark this silky red, which is fresh and complex at once, with a refined structure, great harmony and elegance. Almost approachable now, but the long finish and tight tannins suggest this has plenty of life ahead. Best from 2014 through 2030. 100 cases imported - 96 points, Wine Spectator.
$89.95 2006 Le Vieux Donjon Proprietary Rhone Red
The domain covers 14 hectares in Chateauneuf-du Pape. Only one hectare is planted to white varietals. The proprietary red blend is typically composed of 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault.
$99.95 2006 Fontodi Sangiovese "Flaccianello"
In the 1970s a new class of wines known in the trade as "Super Tuscans" emerged. These wines were made outside DOC/DOCG regulations but were considered of high quality and commanded high prices.
$174.95 2007 Warre's Vintage Porto
Offers lovely perfumed aromas and beautiful raspberry and blackberry character, turning to tar, black truffle and wet earth. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with a balance of very chewy tannins and sugary fruit at the finish. This goes on and on. The great 1994 again? Best after 2020. 6,500 cases made. - JS, 95 points, Wine Spectator (May 2010).
$89.95 2012 Matthiasson Family Vineyards Chardonnay Michael Mara
Even though Steve Matthiasson's reputation is renown as one of the finest viticulturists in Northern California, he has been recently honored as "Winemaker of the Year" from both the San Francisco Chronicle and Food and Wine magazine!
$44.95 2007 Dominio do Bibei Mencia "Lalama"
Dominio do Bibei is located in the Quiroga-Bibei sub zone of the Ribeira Sacra D.O. Like all Ribeira Sacra sub zones, this area is one of spectacular mountain ranges following rivers, but it is drier and harsher than the others. Javier Dominguez is the brainchild of this crazy adventure to recapture a once grand vineyard.
$34.95 2012 Matthiasson Family Vineyards Proprietary White
The 2012 White Wine blend consists of Sauvignon Blanc, Ribolla Gialla, Semillon, and Tocai fruilano as in previous years, but is more ripe and exuberant than past vintages, reflecting the warm growing season. We find fresh cream on the nose accompanied by key lime pie and flavors of passion fruit, lychee, and lemon curd.
$39.95 2006 Dominio do Bibei Mouraton "MT"
Dominio do Bibei is located in the Quiroga-Bibei sub zone of the Ribeira Sacra D.O. Like all Ribeira Sacra sub zones, this area is one of spectacular mountain ranges following rivers, but it is drier and harsher than the others. Javier Dominguez is the brainchild of this crazy adventure to recapture a once grand vineyard.
$57.95 2006 Capanna Brunello di Montalcino
Capanna's 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, substantial wine endowed with tremendous purity in its dark red fruit. Smoke, tar, roses and licorice develop on the mid-palate, adding further complexity.
$89.95 2006 San Felice Campogiovanni "Il Quercione"
Situated at an altitude that ranges from 250 to 300 meters, the Campogiovanni estate stretches across some 65 hectares of the southwest-facing slope of the Montalcino Mountain, which is most exposed to the beneficial effects of the mild sea breeze.
$139.95 2006 Caiarossa Proprietary Red "Caiarossa"
From the estate vineyards of Caiarossa near Riparbella in the northern coastal Bolgheri - Val di Cecina region of Tuscany. This young property is owned by Eric Albada Jelgersma, who also owns Chateau Giscours and Chateau du Tertre in Bordeaux.
$69.95 2013 Kennedy Point Sauvignon Blanc
Kennedy Point Vineyard is Waiheke Island's only certified organic vineyard, set amongst 300 years old Pohutukawa Trees overlooking Waiheke Island's Kennedy Bay.
$20.65 2005 Alto Moncayo Grenache "Aquilon"
You know the bottle with all the tile work on it? The Spanish wine with the pretty "mosaic label"? What about the Braille label? That label with all the raised dots on it. I always know the wines being inquired about..they're from Alto Moncayo.and this is the cult Aquilon with all the dots!
$179.95 2013 Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Russian River Valley
Another golden year for this nearly 40-year old vineyard which continues to yield wines of complexity, weight and balance. Sweetly fragrant with lemon crème brulee, orange blossom, gardenia and tons of tangerine our 2013 Sonoma Chardonnay has plenty of heft and a youthful, exuberant character.
$49.95 2013 Patient Cottat Sauvignon Blanc "Le Grande Caillou"
I just finished tasting the 2013 Patient Cottat, certainly nice enough and the same price as the 2012, which is now sold out at the distributor level. For style and type it will certainly be a seamless replacement.
$12.95 NV Domaine Andre & Mireille Tissot Methode Traditionelle "Cremant de Jura"
Stephane Tissot's sparking cuvees of Chardonnay and Pinot remain among the finest traditional method sparklers for the money grown anywhere in the world. 55% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 5% Trousseau, and 5% Poulsard.
$30.95 NV Gaston Riviere Mistelle - Vin de Liquer "Francois 1er"
A vin de liqueur enjoyed for centuries, Pineau des Charentes is enjoying a renaissance as Americans find again their love for the diverse uses of cordials.
$29.95 2005 Torbreck Shiraz "The Factor"
The 2005 The Factor is 100% Shiraz sourced from dry grown vines from six sub-regions of Barossa. It spent 24 months in 30% new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it delivers an expressive bouquet of pepper, smoke, espresso roast, blackberry, blueberry, and licorice.
$119.95 2005 Mas Doix Proprietary Priorat Blend "Costers de Vinyes Velles"
The Doix family originates from Poboleda and has been in the winemaking business in the region for the last 5 generations. As far back as the late 1800's the property has been recognized by the quality of their vinous fruit, but it wasn't until 1998 when Ramon Llagostera took the reigns of the property that the wines began to experience worldwide fame.
$174.95 2005 Emilio Moro Tempranillo "Malleolus"
The word malleolus comes from Latin and means majuelo, which is a name for a vineyard in Pesquera de Duero. This wine was made from selected grapes coming from majuelos of between 25 and 75 years old, where the vines are both free-standing bush vines and also trained on wires.
$69.95 2005 Clos Figueres Proprietary Priorat Blend "Clos Figueres"
"This flavorful effort should drink well through 2020. The 2005 Clos Figueres, a blend of Garnacha, Carinena, Syrah, and Mourvedre, is opaque purple-colored.
$139.95 2005 Clarendon Hills Syrah Hickinbotham
"Backward, but a gorgeous example of classicism, purity, and super-intense fruit balanced by good acidity and freshness, is the tremendously intense, powerful, full-bodied 2005 Syrah Hickinbotham.
$109.95 2005 Celler del Pont Proprietary Priorat Blend "Lo Givot"
After an extremely cold winter, there were sufficient spring rains to ensure good budding of the vines. The summer was dry and very hot, which is normal in the region and encourages a good start to grape development.
$79.95 2005 Casa Lapostolle Proprietary Red "Clos Apalta"
Back in January of 2007 we visited Casa Lapostolle's revolutionary Clos Apalta winery in the Apalta Valley, a subregion of the Colchagua Valley about 120 miles south of Santiago, Chile.
$199.95 2005 Avril Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rouge
"In the Southern Rhone's recent trio of great vintages starting with 2003, no other Chateauneuf-du-Pape domaine has produced better wines than Clos des Papes. Under Vincent Avril, quality has improved steadily.
$999.95 2004 Torbreck Shiraz "RunRig"
The flagship 2004 Run Rig is 96.5% Shiraz and 3.5% Viognier with the Shiraz component aged for 30 months in a mixture of new and used French oak. Yields were a minuscule 14 hl/ha (about 1 ton per acre). Saturated opaque purple/black, it has a remarkably kinky, exotic perfume of fresh asphalt, pencil lead, smoke, pepper, game, blueberry and black raspberry.
$219.95 2004 Tenuta Argentiera 'Super Tuscan' Proprietary Blend "Argentiera"
The Argentiera estate is situated on the coast of Alta Maremma, about 100 km west of Florence in the DOC appellation of Bolgheri. The estate is part of the historic Tenuta di Donoratico dei Serristori, an influential Florentine family that in 1512 acquired this land from the de'Medici family.
$109.95 2004 Senorio de San Vicente Tempranillo "San Vicente"
The 2004 San Vicente is 100% Tempranillo Peludo sourced from a single vineyard and aged for 20 months in new French and American oak. Deep crimson-colored, it offers an enticing bouquet of pain grille, pencil lead, black cherry, and black raspberry.
$69.95 2004 Maurodos Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo) "San Roman"
Another stunning offering from Toro, San Roman is the product of Bodegas y Vinedow Maurodos, and that producer's typical high quality comes through in this wine. Made from 100% Tinta de Toro (local Tempranillo clone) cropped at 15-25 hectoliters per hectare, aged 22 months in both new French and American oak, and bottled without filtration.
$99.95 2004 Mas Romani (Mas Alta) Proprietary Priorat Blend "La Creu Alta"
The 2004 La Creu Alta is 60% old-vine Carinena and 40% Grenache from vineyards over 100 years of age. Inky purple, the wine has an ethereal nose of spice box, scorched earth, truffle, graphite, kirsch, and wild blueberries.
$149.95 2004 La Rioja Alta Tempranillo "Vina Ardanza"
La Rioja Alta was founded in the town of Haro in 1890. One of the original pioneer families of the region, practices lean heavily on traditional viticulture and winemaking. The family owns 450 hectares of vineyard from which their entire portfolio is sourced, predominantly Tempranillo complemented by Graciano, Mazuelo and Garnacha.
$37.95 2004 Kracher Welschriesling "#7"
Ripe and luscious. Shows impeccable balance, depth and concentration, with ripe apricot, peach and pineapple flavors. 97 points (highest score) - Wine Spectator, June 15, 2007.
$119.95 2004 Fontodi "Riserva" Vigna del Sorbo
So here is an opportunity not to miss. An affordable Tuscano of great pedigree, place and vintage. A wine you can count on for extended pleasure seeking!
$109.95 2004 Domaine Dujac Clos St. Denis, Grand Cru Burgundy
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$199.95 2004 Domaine de L' Hortus Proprietary Red "Rouge"
L'Hortus is a jagged mountain located in the hills between Montpellier and the Herault river valley. The Pic Saint Loup mountain can be found directly across a narrow valley from the Hortus, and in fact, they were once a single entity.
$34.95 2004 Clos Marie Proprietary Red "Les Glorieuses"
70% Grenache, 30% Syrah. Only a few barrels are produced from yields of 15hl/hectare. Peyrus selects his finest barrels to go into this cuvee. Intense, fresh dark fruit with great minerality and tension. A wine for the ages from a great vintage.
$74.95 2004 Clarendon Hills Grenache Romas
The top Grenache cuvee (essentially a selection of the finest fruit from the Blewitt Springs vineyard) is the 2004 Grenache Old Vines Romas Vineyard.
$119.95 2004 Chateau Pierre-Bise Chenin Blanc
From the most prized appellation for late harvest Chenin, this wine has it all. Rich and aromatic in the nose showing apricots, figs and nuts.
$49.95 2004 Cellers del Pont Proprietary Priorat Blend "Lo Givots"
Celler del Pont is the brainchild of a group of friends from the Priorat region, each who had family holdings in and around the village of La Vilella Baixa.
$79.95 2004 Celler de l'Encastell Proprietary Priorat Blend "Roquers de Porrera"
Celler de l'Encastell is a small family-run vineyard and winery in the town of Porrera, DOQ Priorat. About 5,000 bottles of the "Roquers de Porrera" are produced each vintage.
$49.95 2004 Bodegas LAN Tempranillo "Reserva"
Bodegas LAN was founded in 1975 and named after the intials of the three provinces in the Rioja Designation of Origin: Logroño (now La Rioja), Álava and Navarra.
$89.95 2004 Avignonesi 'Super Tuscan' Proprietary Blend "50 & 50"
This wine, as important and special as it is rare, was born from a fruitful collaboration between Avignonesi and Capannelle: 50% Merlot (Avignonesi), and 50% Sangiovese (Capannelle).
$112.95 2003 Taylor-Fladgate Vintage Porto
The 2003 Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port improved each time I raised it to my nose or mouth. It displays a black color and a salty, graphite-laced nose packed with sweet black fruits that is reminiscent of a stellar vintage of Chateau Latour.
$129.95 2003 Pingus Tempranillo "Flor de Pingus"
The 2003 Flor de Pingus exhibits an exuberant, expressive nose of creme de cassis, graphite, licorice, smoke, espresso roast, and aged beef-like characteristics.
$94.95 2003 Fonseca Vintage Porto
Wild aromas, with flowers, blackberries and passion fruit. Full-bodied, massive on the palate. Medium-sweet. The finish goes on for minutes. A mega young Port. Fonseca.
$129.95 2003 Croft Vintage Porto
The 2003 Croft Vintage Port reveals an opaque, black-colored core with notes of dark ruby on the rim. Its gorgeously creamy, profound nose displays sweet dark cherries, black plums, pepper, raisin jam, and blueberries.
$84.95 2003 Clos Martinet Proprietary Priorat Blend
A blend of 45% Grenache 25% Syrah 20% Carignan and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 18 months in 60% new French oak and bottled unfiltered.
$99.95 2003 Clarendon Hills Syrah Moritz Vineyard
Special parcels of grapes are selected from old dry grown vineyards in the Clarendon, Blewitt Springs and Kangarilla sub regions of South Australia. All the vineyards are within six kilometres of the winery, about forty kilometres south of Adelaide.
$89.95 2003 Chateau Tirecul La Graviere Proprietary Dessert White
A 30-year aging curve is possible for the 2003 Chateau Tirecul La Graviere. Composed of 55% Semillon and 45% Muscadelle aged nearly 30 months in French oak, it reveals a dark amber color along with a blockbuster bouquet of toffee, maple syrup, roasted hazelnuts, creme brulee, toasted pineapple and assorted honeyed citrus.
$49.95 2002 Sine Qua Non Dessert White "Mr. K 'The Nobleman'"
The 2002 Mr. K The Nobleman (321 grams per liter of residual sugar and 10.25 grams per liter of acidity) is made from 100% botrytised Chardonnay.
$99.95 2002 Saint-Chamant Methode Champenoise "Millesime Brut"
$79.50 Coravin 1000 System Argon Gas Capsule
Store in cool temperature environment. Do not ship or travel by air.
$22.95 2002 Alto Moncayo Grenache "Aquilon"
Aquilon 2002 Red, Bodegas Alto Moncayo (Campo de Borja) A new winery whose private shareholders include Jorge Ordonez (a key importer of Spanish wines into the United States), Jose Miguel San Martin (Borsao) and other, foreign shareholders including.
$199.95 2001 Mauro Tempranillo "Vendimia Seleccionada"
The 2001 Vendimia Seleccionada is equal to a Bordeaux first growth in quality. A massive, opulent red of tremendous power as well as great elegance and nuance, it boasts an inky/purple color along with a stunning perfume of blackberries, cassis, licorice, sweet oak, smoke, and espresso.
$174.95 2001 La Rioja Alta Tempranillo Gran Reserva 904
La Rioja Alta was founded in 1890 in Haro, the capital of Rioja Alta, in close proximity to Lopez de Heredia and Marques de Riscal. The Bodega's wines are all blends, there are no single vineyard wines, and all of the wines are produced from estate-grown grapes.
$59.95 2001 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino
There are few more assured bets in this appellation than the Fuligni wines of Roberto Guerrini, who manages to find time to run both his family's restored convent cellar and vineyards situated on the eastern slopes of Montalcino, and teach criminal law at the University of Siena. In the very best vintages.
$119.95 2001 Fra Fulco Proprietary Priorat Blend "Viella Alta"
This blend of 60% Carignan, 30% Grenache, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon is fashioned from incredibly old vines (the Carignan and Grenache are both over 100 years of age), and spends 15 months in 100% new oak.
$89.95 2001 Emilio Moro Tempranillo "Malleolus"
"a deep ruby/purple-hued offering boasting a big, sweet nose of vanilla intermixed with blackberries, cherries, crushed rocks, and smoky oak.
$79.95 2001 Elio Altare Barolo
$99.95 2001 E. Pira Barolo "Cannubi"
Owner and winemaker Chiara Boschis is a legend in the making!
$119.95 2001 Domenico Clerico Barolo "Pajana"
With the 2006 Winter Olympics being hosted this February in historicTurin in the Piemonte region of northwest Italy, attention not only will focus on daring athletic achievements, but awareness will be heightened regarding the region's true world class gastronomy.
$124.95 2001 Cavallotto Barolo "Riserva Bricco Boschis"
The 2001 Barolo Riserva Bricco Boschis Vigna San Giuseppe is simply captivating. Made in a dark, brooding style, it reveals a deeply layered personality that marries richness to depth, with generous tar, smoke, menthol, spices and sweet black cherries.
$89.95 2001 Arnaldo Caprai Sagrantino "Riserva"
$139.95 2000 Montevetrano Vino da Tavola (IGT)
A Cabernet Sauvignon blend with 30% Merlot and 10% Algianico considered to be the best of its type from the Campania region. Perpetual Gambero Rosso Tres Bicchiere winner. Wine Advocate 94 points.
$129.95 2000 Elvio Cogno Barolo Ravera
The Elvio Cogno winery sits on the top of Bricco Ravera, a hill near Novello in the Langhe area of Piedmont, one of the eleven communes in which Barolo is produced. The cellar is housed in an 18th-century manor farm surrounded by 11 hectares of land, all occupied by vineyards.
$89.95 1999 Salvioni Sangiovese Grosso
$149.95 1999 La Poderina Brunello di Montalcino
Founded in 1988, La Poderina is located in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate zone of Montalcino, an area noted for the elegance and balance of its grapes. The estate resides southeast of Montalcino's historic town center and consists of consists of 120 acres.
$99.95 1999 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino "Riserva"
"Wonderful aromas of crushed berries and flowers follow through to a full-bodied palate, with loads of fruit and big, velvety tannins.
$99.95 1999 Castello dei Rampolla 'Super Tuscan' Proprietary Blend "Sammarco"
The Sammarco, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Sangiovese, has been one of Tuscany's great classics for nearly two decades. The 1999 Sammarco is tight and closed, but wow, what potential!
$139.95 1999 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cru Cerretalto
As I expected, outrageously good Italian wines were sampled at Gambero Rosso's annual Tre Bicchiere tasting at Fort Mason last Thursday. NOW, I must find ways to procure what little will be exported before I am heartbroken.
$289.95 1999 Andrea Oberto Giada Barbera d' Alba - MAGNUM
One of the very top Barbera producers in Alba. Consistently awarded the coveted Tre Bicchiere by Gambero Rosso.
$139.95 1999 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli - DOUBLE MAGNUM
Deep, dense aromas of porcini and wild strawberry turn to fresh tobacco. Full-bodied, with tight and refined tannins.
$799.99 1997 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon "Hillside Select", Stags Leap District, Napa Valley - MAGNUM
RP 99, WS 97.
$999.95 1997 Elio Grasso Barolo "Riserva" Runcot
Dark youthful ruby. Amazing fruit on the nose, with blackberry, plum, fresh roses and chocolate. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and supersilky tannins.
$224.95 1997 Dal Forno Amarone Reciote - 375 ml
$325.00 1997 Cerreto Barolo Brunate
$139.95 1997 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto
"Everything is here. Mineral, licorice, berry and meat aromas. Full-bodied, yet dense and refined.
$324.95 1997 Avignonesi Vino Nobile "Grand Annate" - MAGNUM
Dark ruby-garnet. Amazing aromas of crushed raspberry and blueberry. So aromatic. Like kir. Full-bodied, with silky, almost chewy tannins and a long, long finish.
$279.95 1997 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli
Classic! Best of vintage! Complex aromas of grilled meat and cherry, with hints of cedar and tobacco turning to plums and flowers. Full-bodied and extremely well-structured, with well-integrated tannins and ripe and concentrated fruit.
$249.95 1996 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon "Hillside Select", Stags Leap District, Napa Valley MAGNUM
RP 98, WS 93.
$895.00 1994 Taylor-Fladgate Vintage Porto
Wine Spectator #1 - Top 100, 100 pts.
$239.95 1994 Graham's Vintage Porto
$159.95 1994 Fonseca Vintage Porto
Wine Spectator #1 - Top 100, 100 pts.
$239.95 1992 En Tirage Methode Champenoise "Extra Brut"
Don Baumhefner, winemaker for Copeland Creek Vineyards, has released the recently disgorged 1992 En Tirage Extra Brut sparkling wine that he has cellared for almost two decades.
$59.95 1990 Chateau Latour Pauillac
Wine Spectator #1 Top 100, 100 pts. - Robert Parker 98 pts.
$1399.99 1967 Chateau d' Yquem Dessert White
From one of the 20th century's celebrated vintages for Yquem, this bottle stands up to all the hype-unforgettable for its purity, elegance, harmony, its "total" everything.
$1999.99 Coravin 1000 System
"Coravin is the most transformational and exciting new product for wine lovers that has been developed/invented in the last 30+ years, this is a killer device." - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate.
$299.00 2002 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon "Hillside Select", Stags Leap District, Napa Valley
"In contrast to the more linear, structured, but massive 2001, the 2002 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is pure fruit-bomb material, but stunningly proportioned, beautifully pure, with notes of melted chocolate, blackcurrant jam, sweet black cherries, licorice, camphor and charcoal. Very full-bodied, like the 2001, but much more lavishly fruited, it is more accessible and hedonistically, as well as intellectually, satisfying. If the 2001 is the long-distance runner, this comes across more like a middle-distancer. It had performed fabulously well since it was released by the winery, and even though it's still an adolescent in terms of its evolution, this wine is a head-turner in wine tastings, and a spectacular effort from Napa. Drink now or drink in 20-25 years." - 100 points, Robert Parker Wine Advocate (Dec 2014).
$599.95 2003 Lagier-Meredith Syrah
Fragrant aromas of cracked pepper, wild berry, plum and pretty floral scents give this a complex bouquet.
$89.95
