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$44.95
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PG 95
RR 94
WS 93
Spain
-
Red
In stock,
2
available
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95 points Peñín Guide: "(100% garnacha). Colour: very deep cherry. Nose: ripe fruit, fruit preserve, sweet spices, cocoa bean, dark chocolate, mineral. Palate: powerful, flavourful, concentrated, complex. (2013)"
94 points Rhone Report: "Even richer and more concentrated, with a slightly more serious feel, the 2009 Bodegas Alto Moncayo Campo de Borja boast rocking aromatics of smoked blackberries, campfire, meat juice, graphite, and chocolate to go with a full-bodied, seamless, and beautifully pure and polished palate. This 100% Garnacha has no hard edges, a light, weightless texture, ripe tannin, and a long, hedonistic finish. Certainly, along the same lines as the Veraton with its sweetness of fruit and overall purity, yet there's more richness and depth through the mid-palate, as well as additional structure on the finish. While it is a hedonistic turn on now, it should nevertheless continue to shine for upwards of a decade. (Mar 2012)"
93 points Wine Spectator: "The espresso, toasted vanilla and licorice flavors are dark and sweet in this rich red. Features linzer torte, fig pudding and dried cherry flavors, with a plush, generous texture and soft, thick tannins. An extreme style, but sensuous and appealing. Drink now through 2015. (1/23/13)"
91 points Wine Enthusiast: "Smoky, charred and minerally on the nose, this has a balsamic berry aroma and lots of dark spice. It feels deep, pure and layered, with flavors of wild berry, toast, baked plum and dark spice. It finishes big, with hints of rubber, blackberry and lasting spice. Alcohol 16%. (Feb 2013)"
100% Garnacha. This wine is spectacular, and represents the perfect foil for grilled steak. Rich, full bodied and muscular, Alto Moncayo has riveting intensity and palate staining extract; this Spanish red is inky/purple, full-bodied, and rich. This pedal-to-the-metal offering should age handsomely for a decade. 600 cases produced.
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$27.95
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RR 95
RP 94
France
-
Rhone
-
Other
In stock, 12+ available
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95 points Rhone Report: "Profound stuff that will stand toe to toe with anything coming out of the Rhône valley, the 2010 Domaine les Aphillanthes Côtes du Rhône Villages Rasteau 1921 is a blend of close to 95% Grenache that comes from incredibly low yields of 7 hl/ha and ancient vines planted in 1921. Easily the greatest wine I have tasted from this estate, it delivers a knockout bouquet of ganache-covered blackberry and cassis styled fruit that is intermixed with notions of hot stones, leather, graphite, licorice, and roasted herbs. Gorgeously rich and decadent, with a full-bodied, powerful mouth feel that stays light, elegant, and fresh, this blockbuster Rasteau is beautifully concentration, structured, and has a heady, very long finish. It should be given 2-3 years of bottle age, and then consumed over the following decade or more. (Sep 2012)"
94 points Robert Parker: "A blockbuster offering is the 2010 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau 1921, which was made from yields of 17 hectoliters per hectare and aged in both concrete tanks and 600-liter demi-muids. Composed of 90% Grenache and the rest a kitchen sink blend, it exhibits an opaque purple color along with abundant floral notes intermixed with notions of white chocolate, charcoal, scorched earth, blackberries and black currants. It reveals a superb, full-bodied, layered, broad, expansive mouthfeel, terrific intensity and a heady finish. Drink this beauty over the next 10-15+ years. (Oct 2012)"
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$42.95
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RR 96
IWC 94
RP 92–94
France
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Rhone
-
Chateauneuf-du-Pape
In stock, 12+ available
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List $60.00
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5 stars, 19.5/20 points, Decanter: "A mix of 1989 and '90; a muscular wine with grip, will become gracious. Curvier than 2009. Drink: 2016-2039. (May 2012)"
96 points Rhone Report: "[$120/750ml list] Showing consistently with the barrel review, the 2010 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape (30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and the remainder an assortment of varieties) is a classic Beaucastel that has both richness and elegance. Showing loads of black cherry, new leather, licorice, pepper, and hints of flowers on the nose, this full-bodied, structured, yet surprisingly elegant and polished 2010 has fantastic purity of fruit, superb balance, and knockout length. Showing more and more structure with air, this needs 3-5 years of bottle age, and should evolve gracefully for upwards of two decades or more. (Sep 2012)"
94 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "[$120/750ml list] Bright ruby. Sexy, spice- and mineral-accented aromas of red and dark fruit preserves and garrigue. Juicy and expansive on the palate, offering vibrant black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors, a hint of smokiness and intense minerality. Tannins come on late and are quickly sucked up by this wine's intense fruit. Rich and lively, with excellent finishing clarity and length. (Jan/Feb 2013)"
92-94+ points Robert Parker: "The Chateau Beaucastel 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape is a classic blend of 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise and the balance other permitted varietals. Surprisingly ripe and soft with a dense ruby/purple color as well as lots of blueberry, scorched earth and blackberry notes intermixed with hints of roast beef and bouquet garni, this wine has structure, but the fruit dominates at present. By the standards of most top vintages of Beaucastel, this cuvee will be drinkable earlier than the normal ten years. I suspect it will put on more weight, so give it 5-6 years of cellaring and drink it over the following three decades. (Oct 2011)"
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$26.95
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JG 96
France
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Loire
In stock, 12+ available
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96 points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "I have been waiting ever since François Chidaine purchased the Clos Baudoin for this legendary vineyard to fully recover from its decades of relative neglect and really start to come into its own, and perhaps the 2010 vintage will be looked back upon as the year that this finally happened. The 2010 Sec is an absolutely stunning young wine, soaring from the glass in a complex and utterly refined nose of quince, pink grapefruit, magically complex, chalky soil tones, spring flowers, beeswax, citrus zest and a touch of lanolin. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and utterly refined, with a rock solid core of fruit, brisk acids, laser-like focus and a huge intensity on the utterly refined and endless finish. This is an absolutely brilliant young bottle of Vouvray Sec! 2018-2050+. (Jan/Feb 2012)"
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$44.95
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RR 96
RP 93–96
IWC 92
France
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Rhone
-
Chateauneuf-du-Pape
In stock, 12+ available
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96 points Rhone Report: "Even better, and to quote owner Vincent Maurel, a wine that 'doesn't suck', the 2010 Clos Saint Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is spectacular stuff! Showing more garrigue, licorice, and roasted herb qualities than the traditional cuvee, as well as layers of red and black fruits, roasted meat, and herbs de Provence aromas and flavors, this full-bodied, thrillingly put together 2010 has no hard edges, a decadent, seamless texture, and incredible length. Despite the overall size and texture, it still carries a fresh, light, and elegant feel, with noticeable and age-worthy structure. Back up the truck if you have one as this is a rock star value that should not be missed! Enjoy bottles over the coming 15+ years. (Sep 2012)"
93-96 points Robert Parker: "The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, which is only available in the United States, is fashioned from Grenache vines planted in 1905, and is aged in both tank and small barrels. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple hue along with notes of licorice, kirsch liqueur, earth, truffles, forest floor, underbrush, raspberry, licorice and graphite. Full-bodied, powerful and rich, it should age effortlessly for 15-20 years. (Oct 2011)"
92 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "(virtually all grenache, from vines that were planted just after 1900, according to the Maurels; this bottling is designated for export exclusively to the U.S.): Saturated ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of red berry liqueur, cherry and licorice, with a powerful floral topnote. Sappy and deeply concentrated, offering palate-staining black raspberry and spicecake flavors and an exotic suggestion of candied flowers. The long finish closes on a floral note, with silky tannins adding shape. (Jan/Feb 2013)"
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$47.95
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JS 96
WS 93
WE 93
Italy
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Tuscany
-
Brunello di Montalcino
In stock, 12+ available
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List $80.00
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96 points James Suckling: "What a nose. The perfect nose of ripe black cherries, spices, toasted oak and flowers. Full body, with velvety tannins, and a berry, cherry and blue berry undertone. What a finish. This shows such beautiful fruit. Leave it for three or four years. Made from organic grapes. (1/15/11)"
93 points Wine Spectator: "Sweet cherry, raspberry, tobacco and licorice aromas and flavors mark this opulent, supple-textured Brunello. This is very open and approachable now, yet there are some chewy tannins underneath. A bit pinched on the finish. Best from 2012 through 2024. (8/31/11)"
93 points Wine Enthusiast: "Here's an austere and sophisticated wine with dark notes of carob, exotic spice, cardamom pod, mesquite smoke and blackberry. The wine is soft, plush and chewy with firm tannins (that could use more time to soften) and a playful touch of acidity on the close. Cellar Selection. (Apr 2011)"
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$46.95
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JG 96
FWR 94
Germany
In stock, 12+ available
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96 points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "The 2011 Dellchen Grosses Gewächs is simply the greatest young dry wine I have ever tasted from this vineyard! The inherent elegance of the vintage has really worked its magic with this great Dellchen and this wine will be a must addition to any Dönnhoff lovers’ cellar! The utterly refined and brilliant nose offers up an intense blend of grapefruit, tart orange, petrol, a touch of lilacs, wild yeasts, crystalline slate tones and citrus peel. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and extremely elegant and racy for a young Dellchen, with a rock solid core of fruit, bright acids and stunning lift on the laser-like, endless and very snappy finish. A hauntingly beautiful wine in 2011! 2018-2045. (Mar/Apr 2012)"
94+ points Fine Wine Review: "The Dellchen GG is from vines that are about 25 years old. The nose is very mineral with a bit of stone showing. The mouth has great clarity in its apple fruit. The wine is very direct and has a fair amount of power to go with its elegance. The palate is long and smooth but with very good firmness. Slate and volcanic soils here. (Issue #138; 2013)"
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$49.95
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JG 96
FWR 96
Germany
In stock, 12+ available
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List $60.00
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96+ points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "The 2011 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Spätlese is utterly profound and the greatest young example of this wine I have tasted since the 2001 was released! The utterly pure and refined nose soars from the glass in a stunning mélange of pink grapefruit, apple, petrol, kaleidoscopic slate, citrus peel, bee pollen and a nice dollop of white flowers in the upper register. On the palate the wine is deep, fullish and very pure, with a superb core of fruit, a very ethereal palate impression, bright, snappy acidity, laser-like focus and magical complexity and grip on the very long, filigreed and dancing finish. This is a brilliant vintage of 2011 Hermannshöhle Spätlese! 2016-2040+. (Mar/Apr 2012)"
96+ points Fine Wine Review: "The Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Spätlese is open and joyous in its slate aromas. The mouth displays great minerality, purity, power, and elegance with more approachability today that the Brücke and perhaps greater sweetness than the foregoing wines. 9% stated alcohol. (Issue #138; 2013)"
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$41.95
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JG 95
FWR 94
WA 96
Germany
In stock, 12+ available
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List $51.00
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95+ points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "The 2011 Dönnhoff Brücke Spätlese shows the faintest touch of botrytis on both the nose and palate that serve to give the wine a slight touch of exotica that is very exciting indeed. The utterly suave bouquet offers up scents of clementine, lemon chiffon, pear, slate, citrus blossoms and an esthery topnote redolent of bee pollen. On the palate the wine is deep, fullish, pure and racy, with a fine core, dancing filigree, laser-like focus and stunning length and grip on the slatey and very precise finish. The nose is quite exotic by Brücke standards, but on the palate this wine is utterly classic. A magical combination! 2016-2040+. (Mar/Apr 2012)"
94+ points Fine Wine Review: "The Oberhäuser Brücke Spätlese is a wine that takes longer to open than the foregoing. Although more closed at the moment, it is deeper with power and elegance. It is a serious wine that asks 10-12 years in the cellar before reaching maturity. 8.5% stated alcohol. (Issue #138; 2013)"
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$29.95
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W&S 95
Germany
In stock, 12+ available
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List $44.00
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95 points Wine & Spirits: "[$44 list] Named for the wild roses that once clung to this vineyard’s granite outcroppings, this wine happens to smells like flowers, the acidity buzzing around it like so many bees, and tastes of green grapes and poached pears with a dusting of five-spice. Sweet yet in a way that’s nuanced and teasing rather than ponderous, it’s a lovely taste of summer. (Dec 2012)"
The Nägler family have owned vineyards in the Rüdesheimer Berg area in the heart of the Rheingau region since 1826. Berg Roseneck is the steepest location of the Rüdesheimer Berg: Superior, elegant and well-balanced wines mature on the steep quartz and slate soil. This value-priced Beerenauslese shows ripe peach, rich, opulent fruit with only hints of botrytis, complexity, acidity and minerality all rolled together.
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$39.95
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RR 96
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $50.00
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96 points Rhone Report: "[$50 list] Even better than the smoking 2009, the 2010 Bodegas El Nido Jumilla Clio is an over the top, decadent, and voluptuous effort that stays gorgeously drinkable and light on the palate. A blend of 70% Monastrell (aka Mourvèdre) and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon that spent 24 months in new French and American oak, it offers up a blockbuster styled bouquet of smoky black raspberry, crème de cassis, coffee, chocolate, and spice that flows to a extremely rich, full-bodied palate that has layers of sweet fruit, an unctuous texture, and chewy, yet velvety tannin that lends focus on the finish. Despite all of the size and richness here, it never seems heavy or cumbersome, and is easy to drink. Make no mistake, this is a big, rich wine that shows sweet fruit and plenty of oak; it will not be for everyone. Nevertheless, it is beautifully made and a joy to drink. Superb now with a decant (and I see no reason to delay gratification), it will drink well for at least a decade, most likely much longer. (Mar 2013)"
Producer notes: "70% monastrell (old vines), 30% cabernet sauvignon. Dark cherry red. Intense nose of ripe fruits (cassis) and comfit fruit mixed with sensations of toasted coffee and licorice which bring finesse and elegance. Strength, flesh, savory and opulence combine in the palate of this wine that little by little develops in the bottle."
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$38.95
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JS 95
WE 93
WS 91
Italy
-
Tuscany
-
Brunello di Montalcino
In stock, 12+ available
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List $70.00
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Three Glasses, Gambero Rosso (2013).
95 points James Suckling: "Aromas of blueberries and bacon and hints of wet earth. Full body, with velvety and round tannins and a juicy finish. Wonderful finish of fruit and meat. Opulent and soft. Better in 2014. Best Fanti since 2001. (1/25/12)"
93 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$70 list] This fine and delicate Brunello shows soft elegance and sophistication in the form of cassis, wild berry, white pepper, root beer, toasted nut and cigar tobacco. The mouthfeel is firm and clean, with elements of tannic structure and fresh acidity that work well together. The oak element still needs time to integrate. Alcohol 15.0%. (May 2012)"
91 points Wine Spectator: "A big, rich style, boasting plum, soy and tobacco aromas and flavors. Features good acidity and firm tannins that bode well for development, with just a touch of heat on the finish. Best from 2014 through 2028. 400 cases imported. (6/6/12)"
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$25.95
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IWC 96
WA 93
WS 92
Italy
-
Tuscany
-
Other
In stock,
7
available
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96 points Ian D'Agata (International Wine Cellar): "(100% sangiovese; 14% alcohol) Good full red with a palish rim. Pure, superripe aromas of red cherry, violet, iodine and nutmeg. Superrich, highly concentrated and seamless, with densely packed flavors of raspberry, dark plum and marzipan. Finishes creamy-rich and explosively long, with a pretty violet note. This was so good I really had trouble letting the glass go. It's also the only time I can remember Fontalloro outclassing Rancia (of which I am a huge fan) by such a wide margin, something I had noticed even when tasting barrel samples of these two wines in the estate's cellar two years ago. I'd wait a good five years on this one, then enjoy it for another two decades. Proof positive that sangiovese is one of the world's great grape varieties. (Jul/Aug 2010)"
93 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "The 2007 Fontalloro is round, sweet and inviting, very much in keeping with the style of the vintage. The fruit tends towards the redder end of the spectrum vis-a-vis the Rancia and the Fontalloro seems to possess a touch more freshness. Floral, spiced notes add lift on the finish. As attractive as the 2007 Fontalloro is, and it is very pretty, the wine does not have a particularly bright track record of developing the noblest aromas and flavors in bottle. In my experience, it is better to err on the side of youth in deciding when to drink Fontalloro. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. (Oct 2010)"
92 points Wine Spectator: "There's blackberry and blueberry galore in this full-bodied wine, which has chewy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Juicy and wonderfully fruity. Best after 2011. (10/31/10)"
Three Glasses, Gambero Rosso: "The Fontalloro shows how these two areas, Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi can blend into a totally unique wine. For years, this pure Sangiovese has been exceptional and we think that the '07 vintage is one of the very best, a rare example of how body, power and warmth can be matched step by step by elegance, complexity and minerality. (2011)"
18.5/20 points Decanter: "Magnificent fragrance of violet, iris and black cherry, with hints of leather and spice. Mouthfuls of concentrated cherry, spice and liquorice. Perfect balance and fantastic length. Very compelling. Drink: 2017-2030. Alc: 14%."
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$36.95
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JS 95
W&S 94
WA 92
United States
-
Pinot Noir
-
California
In stock, 12+ available
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List $55.00
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95 points and 'Top 10 Wines in 2012,' James Suckling: "Intense purity of fruit with blackberries and dried lemon skin. Dark chocolate and coffee. Full body, with a juicy, chewy and ripe palate with green pepper and jalapeno. Lovely fruit too. This with pulled pork would be mind-blowing. Drink or hold. (6/11/12)"
94 points and 'Top 100 Wines of 2012,' Wine & Spirits: "[$55 list] Theresa Heredia blends this wine from Freestone's two estate vineyards, Pastorale and Quarter Moon, after choosing the top blocks for its single-vineyard wines. She then selects the more complex and structured blocks for this blend and the more fruit-forward blocks for Fogdog. It's a dramatic wine in 2009, with layers of flavor immediately implied in the scent -- ripe black cherries, the iodine of kelp and oak softening the minerality of the tannin. The wine's delicious richness becomes explosive with air, the potent structure bringing waves of salty tannins and blasts of red fruit. Effusive rather than complex, this captures the energy of the coast in a wine to pour liberally with roast duck. (Apr 2012)"
92 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "[$55 list] The 2009 Pinot Noir Freestone Vineyards bursts from the glass with an exciting array of sweet black cherries, herbs, dried flowers, licorice and tar, all supported by lively minerality. This focused, beautifully delineated Pinot is first-class all the way. The Freestone bottling is 53% Pastorale Vineyard and 47% Quarter Moon Vineyard. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019. (Feb 2012)"
92 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$55 list] Enormously ripe in cherries, raspberries, cranberries and dates, almost sweet, except that it’s totally dry, and the acidity is fresh and bright. A big, big wine that dazzles for sheer power, although it’s not especially subtle right now. That could change in the cellar. Give it a few years, and then a good decanting before service. Alcohol 13.5%. (12/31/11)"
PinotFile: "[$55 list] 13.5% alc. From Pastorale and Quarter Moon Vineyards. Aged 15 months in 55% new and 45% two to three-year-old French oak barrels. Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Subdued nose initially, picking up intensity over time in the glass offering a fresh blend of cherries and berries with a floral element in the background. Very impressive concentration, even sappy on the mid palate with generous and expressive flavors of black cherries, black raspberries and Hoison sauce, lifted by hi-tone acidity and caressed by gentle, ripe tannins. An impressive hedonistic style of wine with the right touch of acidity, a creamy mouth feel and admirable balance. Excellent aging potential. (11/30/11)"
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$47.95
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JS 95
WS 93
WE 93
Italy
-
Tuscany
-
Brunello di Montalcino
In stock, 12+ available
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List $72.00
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95 points James Suckling: "Frescobaldi’s Brunello always delivers great quality in just about any vintage. Gorgeous nose of ripe berries and slice plums with an almost peach undertone. Full bodied, with a solid core of gorgeously clean and clear dark fruits. Dense and integrated tannins on the finish. So long and fascinating. Best after 2013. (1/15/11)"
93 points Wine Spectator: "This red starts out ripe and accessible, boasting plum, cherry and chocolate flavors, then turns firm and tight on the finish, where tobacco and mineral notes take over. I like the potential of this when it integrates more fully. Best from 2014 through 2024. (8/31/11)"
93 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$72 list] Castelgiocondo's Brunello aptly represents the new face of Montalcino with its plump, ell-extracted and modern style. The wine is packed with soft black cherry, chocolate and coffee aromas and shows a smooth, long-lasting finish. (Apr 2011)"
18.5/20 points Stephen Brook (The World of Fine Wine): "(13.5% ABV) Robust and ripe black-cherry-and-blackberry nose. Ripe and rounded, sumptuous in texture, yet there's no trace of jamminess. Tannic and spicy, yet the components, acidity included, seem in balance. A suave hedonistic style that's already accessible but clearly has the structure to age well. Hard to fault and has complexity and impressive length. (Issue #33; 2011)"
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$39.95
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WA 95
WS 92
WE 91
South Africa
In stock, 12+ available
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List $45.00
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95 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): "[$45 list] The sublime 2010 Pinot Noir is aged for 10 months in oak, of which 44% was new and the remainder used. It has a ripe bouquet of redcurrant, strawberry and Morello that shows no signs of under-ripeness that Hamilton’s Pinots occasionally exhibit due to leaf-roll. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe fleshy redcurrant and cranberry fruit that is underpinned by extremely fine tannins. This has wonderful build in the mouth and the finish is exuberant, almost feisty! This is an audacious Pinot Noir from one of South Africa’s top estates. Drink now-2020. (Dec 2012)"
92 points Wine Spectator: "Ripe, juicy and nicely compact, with plum sauce, blackberry and cherry skin notes wound at the core while mouthwatering anise and singed apple wood notes run along the edges. Possesses impressive cut and persistence. Drink now through 2015. (11/15/12)"
91 points Wine Enthusiast: "This wine starts off bright and vibrant, with aromas of red-cherry skin, red currant and plum with touches of toasted oak and earth. The fruit flavors intensity on the palate, with additional accents of tea leaves, cocoa nib and black pepper that carry through to the medium-length finish. Surprisingly firmly structured, with gripping tannins and pronounced acidity. Drink 2014-2018. (May 2013)"
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$49.95
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RR 95
RP 94
IWC 92
France
-
Rhone
-
Chateauneuf-du-Pape
In stock, 12+ available
|
List $68.00
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95 points Rhone Report: "Showing brilliantly from tank last year, and not disappointing from bottle this year, the 2010 Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a stunning bottle of wine! A blend of 80% Grenache and equal parts Syrah and Mourvedre, its opaque purple color is followed by knockout aromas of blackberry liqueur, flower oil, liquid mineral, licorice, and graphite. Not losing a beat on the palate either, with a full-bodied, structured, and edgy feel, as well as brilliant purity of fruit, this serious, age-worthy effort needs a handful of years in the cellar, and has 15-20 years or more of total longevity. While the chase will be on for the Cuvée Chaupin and Vieilles Vignes bottlings, do not overlook this wine! (Sep 2012)"
94 points Robert Parker: "The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape is the most widely available (nearly 30,000+ bottles produced even in a small vintage such as 2010) of Janasse’s Chateauneufs. It exhibits a dense purple color along with a glorious perfume of blackberries, creosote, scorched earth, smoked herbs, cassis and kirsch. Full-bodied with impressive purity, structure and precision, this is a more reserved, backward and structured effort than its 2009 and 2007 counterparts. (Oct 2012)"
92 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "[$68 list] Dark purple. Aromas and flavors of cherry compote, black raspberry and candied flowers. Densely packed but lithe and precise, with gentle tannins sneaking in on the finish. Showing noteworthy richness and power for an entry-level bottling, with the concentration to age slowly. (Jan/Feb 2013)"
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$42.95
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JS 95
WE 92
Italy
-
Tuscany
-
Brunello di Montalcino
In stock,
3
available
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List $70.00
|
95 points James Suckling: "Blueberries, flowers and raspberries. Love the nose, like so many others. Full body, with fine tannins and a silky textured finish. So much going on here. Class. Best after 2013. (1/15/11)"
92 points Wine Enthusiast: "La Poderina's Brunello shows impressive balance between its bright fruit and sassy spice components. On the close, the wine exhibits a tight, firm and penetrating feel that is carried forth by acidity and the natural firmness of the tannins. (Apr 2011)"
17.5/20 points Stephen Brook (The World of Fine Wine): "(13.5% ABV) Sumptuous black-fruit nose, lush and hedonistic. Rich and plump, with good concentration and acidity. Very ripe but has ample tannic grip and structure. Clearly youthful and a touch raw, but it's vivacious and puppy-like. The fruit is solid and seamless, but it's not monolithic; indeed, it's nuanced and subtle and complex. The excellent length makes this a persuasive wine, but it will take a few years for it to become fully expressive. (Issue #33; 2011)"
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$39.95
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WE 95
PR 95
AM 91
United States
-
Pinot Noir
-
California
In stock, 12+ available
|
List $48.00
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95 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$48 list] A top-rank Pinot Noir, dry, silky and elegant, with moderate alcohol despite great richness. The flavors of cherries, cola, plums and herbs are simply delicious, while the structure displays great integrity of acids and tannins. A bit tight now in youth, it should unfold over the next eight years. If you pop the cork now, give it a few hours of airing. 605 cases produced. Alcohol 14.2%. (May 2012)"
95 points PinotReport: "[$48 list] Medium-deep ruby color; complex, plum and black cherry aromas with pepper and smoke notes; big, rich, deep pepper and plum flavors with smoky notes; great texture; good structure and balance; long finish. Delicious, deep Pinot with the kind of complexity I've come to expect from this vineyard. Perfect match for grilled lamb or pork. 605 cases made. (1/15/12)"
'Outstanding' and 91 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "(Sta Rita Hills, 14.2%). A fresh, cool and very pure nose of dark berry fruit liqueur, spiced plum and a bass note of warm earth leads to dusty, textured and beautifully well-focused middle weight flavors that possess plenty of mouth coating extract that buffers the moderately firm and ripe tannic spine. The balance is impeccable and this should age effortlessly over the next decade. Drink: 2016+. (Apr 2012)"
90 points Wine Spectator: "[$48 list] Firm and dense, yet supple around the edges, this offers vivid flavors of wild berry, raspberry, fresh earth and wildflowers, joined by touches of herb and spice. Needs time. Drink now through 2016. 572 cases made. (10/15/11)"
Producer notes: "The wine has a medium-dark ruby color with hints of purple on the edges. The aromas are a complex mixture of herbs, sage, tobacco, redwood and cedar with hints of cherries in the background. On the palate the wine is medium bodied with flavors of black cherries and the earthy elements found in the aroma. The aromas and flavors of our Pinot Noir from Fe Ciega Vineyard are characteristically far more earthy than fruity in nature. Because of the youth, the flavors are somewhat restrained by the moderately extracted and silky tannins. As the wine ages in the bottle, the tannins will soften allowing the flavors to come through. The acidity is well balanced and the oak integration is seamless with the fruit of the wine. It will pair well with a wide variety of foods including crispy duck confit with a red wine reduction, veal cheeks and pork dishes."
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$49.95
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WA 95
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $62.00
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95 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): "[$62 list] The 2005 Prado Enea Gran Reserva spends 36-months in oak, nine months in new oak after which it is racked into American oak that is 'semi-new' (i.e. a new barrel that is 'broken in' with a wine beforehand). It has an unashamedly opulent bouquet of primal, ripe, boysenberry, mulberry, dark chocolate and crushed violets that blossom with aeration. The palate is full-bodied with crisp acidity cutting through the pure blackberry and cassis fruit. It has wonderful focus and intensity, though the finish demonstrates convincing composure. This is an outstanding Gran Reserva whose silky texture will instantly win you over. Drink 2013-2030+. (Aug 2012)"
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$35.95
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CG 96
WS 94
RR 93
United States
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Rhone Varietals
In stock, 12+ available
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List $44.00
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96 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "[$44 list] In 2008, this perennially successful combination of vineyard and vintner comes through with flying colors again and, in this case, reminds of the pitfalls that await those who might judge a wine solely on its alcohol content. Its label may claim 15.3% abv., but there is no unwieldy excess here, and it is a rich and remarkably composed Syrah of keen focus and real sophistication. It is at once substantial and exceptionally well-balanced with incisively fruity flavors and layers of interest even at this early age, and its combination of polish and power takes it right to the head of the class. Do not be in hurry to drink it up soon as it promises to impress even more with age. (Mar 2013)"
94 points and 'Highly Recommended,' Wine Spectator: "Pure, ripe and complex dark fruit aromatics show spice and floral accents in this red, which is rich, yet graceful in texture, with fine-grained tannins. Offers blueberry, wild berry and boysenberry flavors that turn elegant on the finish. Drink now through 2024. 339 cases made. (12/31/12)"
93 points Rhone Report: "The richest and ripest of the '08 Syrahs, the 2008 Roll Ranch Vineyard, which was co-fermented with 2% Viognier, sports an inky purple color to go with knockout aromatics of sweet red plums, black currants, licorice, tar, and Christmas spice-like qualities. Medium to full-bodied, deep, layered, and rich, this beauty has a voluptuous, yet elegant texture, notable focus and freshness, and plenty of length. While there's enough tannin to warrant another year or two in the cellar, it is far from unapproachable, and no doubt a delicious drink now. It should continue to shine for over a decade. (Dec 2012)"
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$49.95
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CG 95
IWC 93
WA 92
United States
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Chardonnay
In stock,
11
available
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List $60.00
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95 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "[$60 list] Born from grapes grown in one of the most acclaimed sites in Carneros and showing the fruity depth, the careful construction and the polish that only comes in outstanding years and from an accomplished hand, Ramey's Hyde bottling is a many-layered Chardonnay of great verve and vitality. Its neatly trim adjuncts of sweet oak never threaten to upstage the bright and slightly blossomy young fruit that runs its length, and subtle minerally accents lend a twist of real complexity. It, too, is a wine best left to aging, and there seems little question but that it will continue to grow for many years. (Jan 2013)"
93 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Bright gold. Intensely perfumed aromas of orange pith, pear and anise, with slow-building spiciness and a touch of salty minerality. Vibrant, finely etched citrus and orchard fruit flavors expand and deepen with air, picking up a sexy florality. The brisk finish features a strong jolt of melon and a touch of iodine. (May 2012)"
92 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "[$60 list] The 2009 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is another of the wines that emphasizes textural depth and body. This is a relatively plush, rich Chardonnay endowed with considerable volume in its apricot and tangerine fruit. The aromas and flavors move towards the more tropical end of the spectrum, but without fully reaching that level of exoticness. Readers who appreciate a more full-bodied style of Chardonnay will love the Hyde. I especially like the way the wine turns delicate with time in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. (Feb 2012)"
91 points California Grapevine: "[$60 list] Medium-light golden yellow; attractive, intense, buttery, melon and ripe peach aroma with hints of honeysuckle and vanilla; medium-full body; rich, fleshy, citrus and spiced apple flavors with bright acidity; lingering aftertaste. This wine shows a slightly softer mouthfeel than the other Ramey Chardonnays reported on here. Very highly recommended. 14.5% alcohol; 2,690 cases; 100% Chardonnay; 100% barrel fermented; 100% malolactic fermentation; released Spring 2012. (Jan 2013)"
Producer notes: "Located in gently rolling terrain north of Carneros Highway, the soils are quite heavy clay. Vine selection is old Wente, Robert Young and Long Vineyards -- each a Wente selection themselves -- ranging in age from 11 to 30 years old. The Wente is marked by very small grape clusters, with small berries, and the so-called 'hen-and-chick' -- large and small berries within the same cluster. The Wente produces a classic, Burgundian-style wine without the tropical fruit tones of some California Chardonnays. The Long Vineyards selection adds a floral note, and the Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine. High natural acidity plays a prominent role."
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$35.95
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CG 95
WA 91–93
United States
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Zinfandel
In stock, 12+ available
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95 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "Another stunner under the Geyserville moniker, this rich, nicely layered offering combines red and black berries with touches of dried leaves and black pepper in its mid-volume aromas. And, as promising as the nose seems to be, the wine is even more deeply packed on the palate where its blackberry, raspberry, darkly spiced fruit is joined by background notes of creamy oak. Latter palate tannin assures that this version of Geyserville will enjoy the long-aging abilities of its predecessors. (May 2013)"
91-93 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "The 2011 Geyserville impresses for its silkiness and texture. Sweet dark berries, flowers and mint are some of the notes that take shape in the glass. The 2011 is a decidedly mid-weight, feminine style of Geyserville. Floral notes reappear on the finish, adding lift and vibrancy. The 2011 should drink well upon release and also age. To make the 2011, Ridge was especially selective and fewer parcels made it into the blend than normal, especially with the Petite Sirah. The blend is 80% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 3% Petite Sirah and 1% Alicante Bouschet. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2031. (Aug 2012)"
Producer notes: "78% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 4% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet, 1% Mataro (Mourvedre). Aromas of scented bramble fruit, mint, gravelly earth, and sweet oak. Flavors of black tea, sweet cherry fruit and complex minerality. Sensuous and layered with medium chalky tannins and lively acidity. Finishes long and savory. 14.2% alcohol."
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$29.95
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RR 96
RP 93
IWC 93
France
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Rhone
-
Other
In stock, 12+ available
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List $42.00
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96 points Rhone Report: "Always the most elegant of the three Gigondas cuvees, the 2010 Domaine Saint-Damien Gigondas La Louisiane (80% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre, and the balance a mix of Cinsault and Syrah) boasts perfumed floral, rolled stone minerality, and violet characteristics intermixed with notes of garrigue, mint, and ripe Grenache-driven fruit on the nose. This full-bodied, structured, and mouth filling 2010 has a seamless, poised texture, brilliant concentration, and a firm, tannic core. It should be cellared for a handful of years, and will be long lived. (Sep 2012)"
93 points Robert Parker: "[$42 list] The 2010 Gigondas La Louisiane is a 525-case offering fashioned from 65-year-old vines grown in decomposed red clay and gravel. It is also a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre aged in foudre for 14 months prior to being bottled without fining or filtration. It offers sensational notes of blueberry liqueur intermixed with kirsch, mulberries, licorice and lavender. Full-bodied and sexy with good acidity as well as sweet, well-integrated tannins, this beautiful, virginal (because of the biodynamic farming and lack of any new oak aging) red should drink nicely for 10-15 years. (Oct 2012)"
93 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Saturated ruby. Exotic aromas of black and blue fruits, incense and potpourri, with a spicy topnote. Juicy and expansive on the palate, offering intense cassis and cherry compote flavors and bracing acidity. Rich, vivacious, finishing sweet, silky and very long. (Jan/Feb 2013)"
92 points Wine Spectator: "An inviting, perfumy style, with linzer torte and blackberry confiture aromas and flavors lined with notes of black tea, pastis-soaked plum and violet. There's ample grip, but it's fine-grained and well-embedded through the finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 200 cases imported. (10/15/12)"
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$34.95
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RR 98
RP 94
IWC 93
France
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Rhone
-
Other
In stock, 12+ available
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List $45.00
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98 points Rhone Report: "My favorite of the Gigondas lineup, the blockbuster 2010 Domaine Saint-Damien Gigondas Les Souteyrades (80% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre aged all in tank) is wildly perfumed and aromatic, as well as incredibly full-bodied, rich, and concentrated. Showing thrilling notes of wild herbs, orange peel, garrigue, exotic flowers, and layers of ripe fruit, this hedonistic, yet gorgeously proportioned 2010 has massive fruit, awesome freshness and focus, and a firm, tannic core. No doubt it is a superb drink now, but it will be even better in 2-3 years, and evolve gracefully for two decades. (Sep 2012)"
94 points Robert Parker: "[$45 list] A 1,000-case offering from gray clay soils, the 2010 Gigondas Les Souteyrades is also made from 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre from 65-year-old vines. It represents what Saurel believes is his finest parcel of old vines. This cuvee is always the richest and fullest of this trio of Gigondas, and it can also contain more truffle, herbs, tannin and structure. A complex, intricate Gigondas, it offers a terrific perfume of truffles, forest floor, acacia flowers, and lots of black and red fruits. It hits the palate with a deep, expansive, round, full-bodied mouthfeel, and finishes long. This 2010 is capable of drinking well for 12-15+ years. Bravo! (Oct 2012)"
93 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Vivid ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes candied blackberry and cherry, with a suave floral element gaining power in the glass. Deeply concentrated but lively, with excellent clarity to its sappy dark fruit flavors. Bright acidity adds lift and cut to a long, floral-dominated finish. (Jan/Feb 2013)"
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