$ 74.99
$ 79.99
$ 47.99
One of the best Napa Valley Sauvignon Blancs we've discovered, from one of our favorite Napa producers Altmura.
The Altamura 2019 Sauvignon Blanc comes from the winery's 4-acre 18-year-old dry-farmed vineyard which sits at an altitude of 850 feet. The wine is fermented and aged in new French oak barrels for 18 months resulting in a wine of great depth and complexity, displaying the flavor and textural profile more like a white Bordeaux than a California Sauvignon Blanc. Very limited production of 500 cases.
$ 69.99
$ 99.99
98 points - limited
Arista is one of California's leading Chardonnay and Pinot Noir producers under the helm of winemaker Matt Courtney (Marcassin, Ferren), Limited.
previous vintage 98 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "From one of the Grand Cru sites in the Russian River, the Arista Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard saw the standard 12 months in one-third new French oak followed by six months in stainless steel. Buttered pineapple, nectarines, honeyed flowers, almond paste, toasted bread, and honeysuckle notes all emerge from the glass, and this beauty is full-bodied on the palate and flawlessly balanced. The purity of fruit is just about off the charts, and it has good acidity as well as a great mid-palate. This quintessential Russian River Chardonnay shows the classic power and richness of this appellation while also possessing freshness, elegance, and balance. Hats off to Matt Courtney for another tremendous wine....With the wines made by Matt Courtney, this Russian River estate continues to make some of the best wines in the vintage."
95 Points Robert Parker: "The Arista Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is a stunning wine. It offers singular aromas of guava, grapefruit peel and musky hints with layers of tangerine, green herbs, crushed stone and hints of elderflower. The medium-bodied palate is very expressive with kaleidoscopic flavor layers and addicting juiciness, finishing long and ever-changing in the mouth. This is a flamboyant expression that can be drunk immediately or cellared for a few years."
$ 44.99
"Fresh and clean, this wine is full of sweet orange and the ripe flesh of nectarine. It is perfumed with a touch of ginger and has notes of salinity and minerality. Although it doesn’t have any residual sugar, the palate naturally has the feeling of round, fullness and the flavors have a pleasant sweetness. Its vibrancy makes for a mouthwatering finish, and an easy-to-drink wine.” - Jennifer Williams, Winemaker
Arrow & Branch was founded by Steve and Seanne Contursi. Both have enjoyed Bordeaux wines since the 1980’s and have collected wine from a number of premium Bordeaux based, primarily Right Bank producers. One of the rising stars of Napa Valley winemaking, winemaker Jennifer Williams was previously with Araujo & Spotswoode.$ 450.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Aubert noted that this is his coolest site and usually the last to be harvested. Located near the Hyde Estate winery, by virtue of chilly afternoon breezes, it is indeed among the coolest sites on the Napa side of the Los Carneros AVA. This section is planted to Corton-Charlemagne clone on St. George rootstock. A barrel sample, it is being aged in 50% new French oak barrels... Whoa—the Aubert Chardonnay Larry Hyde & Sons explodes from the glass with bombastic scents of sea spray, freshly shaved ginger, lemon curd and grapefruit plus emerging hints of green guava, lime cordial and coriander seed with a waft of struck flint. Full-bodied, rich and lively, the palate is remarkably fruity and yet possesses loads of mineral sparks and savory nuances, finishing very long and spicy. This vintage no doubt played to the strengths of this site beautifully in 2019, delivering a very impressive wine of amazing singularity and intensity."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
$ 475.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "Aubert 2019 Sugar Shack Chardonnay is produced from Montrachet clone vines grown in Rutherford AVA. It is aged in French oak barrels, 70% new. A barrel sample, the 2019 Chardonnay Sugar Shack has a fabulously flamboyant nose of juicy Bosc pears, ripe apricots and ginger cake with hints of orange blossoms, crème caramel and toasted almonds. The palate is concentrated, full-bodied and beautifully textured with loads of stone fruit and spice layers, finishing long with a chalkiness coming through on the finish."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
$ 475.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "Aubert 2019 Sugar Shack Chardonnay is produced from Montrachet clone vines grown in Rutherford AVA. It is aged in French oak barrels, 70% new. A barrel sample, the 2019 Chardonnay Sugar Shack has a fabulously flamboyant nose of juicy Bosc pears, ripe apricots and ginger cake with hints of orange blossoms, crème caramel and toasted almonds. The palate is concentrated, full-bodied and beautifully textured with loads of stone fruit and spice layers, finishing long with a chalkiness coming through on the finish."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
$ 499.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Lauren Vineyard (named after Mark Aubert's daughter) is the first vineyard Mark Aubert ever bought. It is composed of gravel mixed with Goldrich soils and was planted in 1999 to four different clones: two Old Wente clones, Mount Eden and Corton-Charlemagne. The Chardonnay Lauren Estate (a barrel sample) was fermented and aged in 100% new French oak. Unlike the other 2019 Aubert Chardonnays, this one needs a little swirling and coaxing to reveal the youthfully mute nuances of sea spray, crushed cashews, beeswax and allspice over a core of fresh pineapple, passion fruit, lemon meringue pie and toast. The full-bodied palate delivers the most gorgeous silken texture with tons of opulent spice-laced tropical fruit flavors and a refreshing line, finishing with incredible length and energy. Singularly stunning."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
$ 499.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Park Avenue is a brand new, single-vineyard label for Aubert. This site was purchased by Mark Aubert in 2013. It had previously been an apple orchard but has since been planted to mostly Hyde Clone Chardonnay with a little Montrachet clone. It is located on the Sonoma Coast, conveniently situated right in between Aubert's Lauren and CIX vineyards. The vineyard has a long road leading up to the property, hence the name "Park Avenue." Note that the previous two vintages from this vineyard were declassified into the AVA wine. A barrel sample, the Chardonnay Park Avenue leaps out of the glass with provocative notes of white peaches, fresh pears, lemon curd and chalk dust plus spicy hints of coriander seed, nutmeg and white pepper. The full-bodied palate is super intense with wonderful tension and lots of mineral accents to the concentrated flavors, finishing with epic length and long-lingering spicy kick."
Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville
e."$ 199.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "A relatively new vineyard label for Aubert (the third vintage to be produced), the Chardonnay Powder House comes from eight acres of what are now estate-owned vines planted in 2013 to Hyde Old Wente and Mt. Eden clones on Goldridge soils. It prances out of the glass with showy scents of fresh nectarines, pink grapefruit, lime leaves and preserved lemons plus hints of struck flint and wet pebbles. The full-bodied palate possesses an almost electric intensity with bags of nervy citrusy flavors and a very lively backbone, finishing with great length and oodles of minerals. This should age fantastically!"
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
$ 159.99
99 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
Robert Parker: "...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
$ 39.99
A great small-production Chardonnay from Barnett Vineyards on Spring Mountain.
93+ Points Robert Parker: "The Barnett Chardonnay Sangiacomo Vineyard opens with a gorgeous nose of spice cake, candied ginger, lemon butter and marzipan over a core of apricots, Bosc pears and apple pie. Medium-bodied, the palate bursts with intense citrus and apple flavors plus loads of spicy accents with a racy backbone and satiny texture, finishing long with beautiful savoriness."
Barnett Vineyards is located off of the narrow windy Spring Mountain Road which connects Napa and Sonoma Counties – about 1.5 miles in. This is a small estate winery (founded in 1983 by Hal & Fiona Barnett) located on very steep hillsides with slopes up to 35%! Their original intent was never to build a winery but rather to have a weekend private getaway location from San Francisco. For a fairly small production they make a wide variety of wines – as of our latest visit, 11 different wines are made here. They are strong believers in unique terroir sites and will source fruit from a variety of locations (not necessarily within Napa) based on where specific varietals grow best.
$ 79.99
Rare Chardonnay release from Beaux-Freres owner Mike Etzel. Tiny production.
The Beaux Freres Willamette Valley Chardonnay comes from the Star Mooring vineyard (planted by Mike D. Etzel in 2014), along with a few carefully selected parcels tucked in other ideal corners of the Willamette Valley. As if directed by Leonard Bernstein, this harmonious wine delivers orchestral balance despite its youth. An Old World-esque depth of flavor and low alcohol ensure graceful aging for 7 - 10 more years. Just 268 cases produced.
Tasting Notes: Meadowfoam honey and Lemon verbena aromatics are followed by bees wax and a waft of citrus flower. This is truly a nectar of sunlight across the palate, with bright, energetic freshness.
$ 79.99
Rare Chardonnay release from Beaux-Freres owner Mike Etzel. Tiny production.
The Beaux Freres Willamette Valley Chardonnay comes from the Star Mooring vineyard (planted by Mike D. Etzel in 2014), along with a few carefully selected parcels tucked in other ideal corners of the Willamette Valley. As if directed by Leonard Bernstein, this harmonious wine delivers orchestral balance despite its youth. An Old World-esque depth of flavor and low alcohol ensure graceful aging for 7 - 10 more years. Just 268 cases produced.
Tasting Notes: Meadowfoam honey and Lemon verbena aromatics are followed by bees wax and a waft of citrus flower. This is truly a nectar of sunlight across the palate, with bright, energetic freshness.
$ 19.99
A deliciously crisp, dry rosé from Belle Glos, a perfect California version that will transport you to summer in the South of France.
To capture this shade along with the wine's crisp acidity and bold berry flavors, they lightly press the fresh Pinot Noir juice from the whole clusters, then allow it a brief love affair with spicy French oak barrels during and after fermentation. Oeil-de-perdrix--French for "eye of the partridge"--is a traditional term for this wine's seductive, jewel-like color. Enjoy it well chilled with raw or grilled seafood, or on its own as a warm-weather refresher.
Tasting notes: The Belle Glos 2021 "Oeil de Perdrix" rosé is a vibrant rose-salmon color. Pronounced aromas of ripe strawberry and green apple are supported by an undertone of light oak. The flavors are lively with cranberry and citrus zest notes. The full, lush mouthfeel is balanced by a brisk acidity and mineral elements, leading to a long-lasting finish..
$ 44.99
97 Points - Limited
Beringer's top Chardonnay from the Gamble Ranch vineyard. Limited.
97 Points James Suckling: "This is a really solid white with so much structure and depth, as well as a border-less, encompassing palate. Full-bodied and polished with lots of length. Shows complex flavors, from cooked apples and lemons to stones and hints of flowers. Still tight. Needs time to come together."
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The classic Napa release from this estate, the Beringer Chardonnay Private Reserve has lots of beautiful golden apple, caramelized citrus, toasted nut, and hints of acacia flowers. With a rich, textured style, it still stays beautifully fresh, balanced, and layered. It's a brilliant effort."
Beringer's Private Reserve Chardonnay is primarily sourced from their Gamble Ranch property in the Oakville AVA of Napa Valley. Each lot was kept separate from harvest all the way through the winemaking process. The wine was aged for 9 months in 88% new French oak with full malolactic fermentation, and the lees were stirred weekly to enrich the texture and profile. Only the finest lots were then selected for inclusion in this Private Reserve bottling. From winemaker Laurie Hook: "Aromas of hazelnut and grilled pineapple are followed by flavors of lush, tropical fruits, balanced by a hint of citrus. A rich, creamy mouthfeel is rounded out by a lengthy, elegant finish.
$ 31.99
93 Points Parker - New release
Inaugural release of a beautiful new Chardonnay from Beringer.
93 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The Beringer Chardonnay Luminus is done in a brighter, fresher style than the flagship Private Reserve Chardonnay. Much of that can be attributed to the cooler microclimate of the Big Ranch Road property in Oak Knoll. The Luminus is aged in equal parts French and Hungarian oak, the latter used for an accent of spice to complement the citrus and floral notes that are typical of this wine."
Robert Parker: "Beringer’s Chardonnay Luminus shows a touch of new oak, but this is meant to highlight the ripe tropical fruit of California’s Chardonnay. This wine displays tangerine and pineapple along with hints of pear, crème brûlée and citrus blossom. Medium-bodied with crisp acidity, it should drink nicely for another 3-4 years."
$ 59.99
The Champagnes of Besserat de Bellefon are served at restaurant Alain Ducasse in Paris and New York and Charlie Trotter's in Chicago. They are found in the world's finest restaurants and have a cult reputation in France. While they are hard to find in the U.S., we're proud to introduce this exclusive Champagne to our customers.
The Besserat de Bellefon Cuvee des Moines Brut is considered among champagne connoisseurs to be the finest grade champagne. Brilliant straw colour with copper highlights. Fine, persistent froth forming a noticeable ring. The nose is dominated by woodland flowers, apples, pears and above all, candied fruit. Rich and varied aromas, full of delicacy and subtlety. As wine opens up, pronounced hazelnut notes are evident. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, delicately sweet and well rounded, in full harmony with the complex aromas. Definite fresh fruit notes. The wine develops on a very silky structure. A fresh and assertive finish, boding well for this exquisite wine.
$ 74.99
The Champagnes of Besserat de Bellefon are served at restaurant Alain Ducasse in Paris and New York and Charlie Trotter's in Chicago. They are found in the world's finest restaurants and have a cult reputation in France. While they are hard to find in the U.S., we're proud to introduce this exclusive Champagne to our customers.
The Besserat de Bellefon Cuvee des Moines is a rose (slightly pink) champagne which is considered among champagne connoisseurs to be the finest grade champagne.
$ 499.00
Can't decide which Chardonnays to try? We've done the work for you by selecting a mixed case (12 bottles) of our favorite current Chardonnays from top California producers.
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- Peirson-Meyer 2019 "Sophia's" Chardonnay, Russian River Valley ($55) From winemaker Robbie Meyer
- Pahlmeyer 2018 'Jayson' Chardonnay ($49.99) Blockbuster second-label Chard from cult-producer Pahlmeyer
- Patz & Hall 2018 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($41.99) From the Dutton Ranch Vineyard made famous by Kistler!
- Flowers 2021 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast ($55) 96 Points Wine Enthusiast "Editor's Choice"
- Joseph Phelps 2019 Freestone Vineyards Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast ($49.99) - 95 points
- Paul Hobbs 2019 Chardonnay Russian River Valley ($59.99) 92 pts - fantastic new release
Price reflects 10% case discount already built in!
$ 89.99
94 points - limited
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé is one of Champagne's finest rosés when it's available! Elegant and focused with a fine bead, light salmon color, creamy texture and lingering finish.
94 points James Suckling: "An subtle nose with plenty of fine autolysis aromas of fresh bread and sweetly fragrant yeasty notes, plus some gentle spice and chalky notes. The palate unleashes beautiful wild strawberry fruit flavors, super fresh, fleshy and pure. Great balance and depth."
93 points Wine Spectator: "The Billecart-Salmon is a lovely rosé in an almost vinous style, with mouthwatering acidity and a fine, lacy mousse carrying appealing flavors of ripe raspberry, white cherry fruit, star anise, mandarin orange peel and honeysuckle. Lightly chalky on the lasting finish. Enjoy with food. Drink now through 2020."
Billecart-Salmon was one of the very first Houses in 1954 to believe in a Rosé style in Champagne. Made with between 30-40% reserve wines. The dosage is 7-8 grams. This cuvée unveils a subtle aroma leading to an elegant, delicate bouquet of fine notes of red fruits and citrus fruit zest. On the palate, its special method of vinification gives a light, elegant flavor, followed by a fresh finish with a taste of raspberry." More at Champagne Billecart-Salmon
$ 74.99
94 points - limited
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé is one of Champagne's finest rosés when it's available! Elegant and focused with a fine bead, light salmon color, creamy texture and lingering finish.
94 points James Suckling: "This well-balanced and nicely rounded sparkling sensation may surprise you as a happy accomplice to Buttermilk Fried Chicken. The ripeness of fruit and crisp, green-apple texture are a match made in heaven with the juicy, crispy deliciousness on your plate."
Billecart-Salmon was one of the very first Houses in 1954 to believe in a Rosé style in Champagne. Made with between 30-40% reserve wines. The dosage is 7-8 grams. This cuvée unveils a subtle aroma leading to an elegant, delicate bouquet of fine notes of red fruits and citrus fruit zest. On the palate, its special method of vinification gives a light, elegant flavor, followed by a fresh finish with a taste of raspberry." More at Champagne Billecart-Salmon
$ 99.99
94 points - limited
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé is one of Champagne's finest rosés when it's available! Elegant and focused with a fine bead, light salmon color, creamy texture and lingering finish.
94 points James Suckling: "An subtle nose with plenty of fine autolysis aromas of fresh bread and sweetly fragrant yeasty notes, plus some gentle spice and chalky notes. The palate unleashes beautiful wild strawberry fruit flavors, super fresh, fleshy and pure. Great balance and depth."
93 points Wine Spectator: "The Billecart-Salmon is a lovely rosé in an almost vinous style, with mouthwatering acidity and a fine, lacy mousse carrying appealing flavors of ripe raspberry, white cherry fruit, star anise, mandarin orange peel and honeysuckle. Lightly chalky on the lasting finish. Enjoy with food. Drink now through 2020."
Billecart-Salmon was one of the very first Houses in 1954 to believe in a Rosé style in Champagne. Made with between 30-40% reserve wines. The dosage is 7-8 grams. This cuvée unveils a subtle aroma leading to an elegant, delicate bouquet of fine notes of red fruits and citrus fruit zest. On the palate, its special method of vinification gives a light, elegant flavor, followed by a fresh finish with a taste of raspberry." More at Champagne Billecart-Salmon
$ 499.99
94 points - limited
**This is a rare large format 3-Liter Jerobaum** Limited
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé is one of Champagne's finest rosés when it's available! Elegant and focused with a fine bead, light salmon color, creamy texture and lingering finish.
94 points James Suckling: "An subtle nose with plenty of fine autolysis aromas of fresh bread and sweetly fragrant yeasty notes, plus some gentle spice and chalky notes. The palate unleashes beautiful wild strawberry fruit flavors, super fresh, fleshy and pure. Great balance and depth."
93 points Wine Spectator: "The Billecart-Salmon is a lovely rosé in an almost vinous style, with mouthwatering acidity and a fine, lacy mousse carrying appealing flavors of ripe raspberry, white cherry fruit, star anise, mandarin orange peel and honeysuckle. Lightly chalky on the lasting finish. Enjoy with food. Drink now through 2020."
Billecart-Salmon was one of the very first Houses in 1954 to believe in a Rosé style in Champagne. Made with between 30-40% reserve wines. The dosage is 7-8 grams. This cuvée unveils a subtle aroma leading to an elegant, delicate bouquet of fine notes of red fruits and citrus fruit zest. On the palate, its special method of vinification gives a light, elegant flavor, followed by a fresh finish with a taste of raspberry." More at Champagne Billecart-Salmon
$ 59.99
95 pts
New white release from Paso cult producer Booker Vineyards.
Estate Notes: A deep and rich hue of golden straw gives the first clue that this is a serious Chardonnay. Aromas of pear, green apple, and lime peel jump out of the glass followed by more nuanced fragrances of orange blossom, ginger root, and brioche. The sensation on the palate casually demonstrates both broad depth and laser like focus. An assertive core of acid and saline minerality rests completely ensconced in rich flavors of pie crust, clotted cream, and burnt caramel. Drink now for fresh vibrance, or in ten years for wild complexity.
An homage to Stephan Asseo of L’Aventure Winery became an obsession. Sourced from exceptional vineyard sites around Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo and south to Edna Valley, this wine is cultivated meticulously by the farmers who have become My Favorite Neighbors. With their dedication to the land, we are able to craft a world class wine without any shortcuts or compromises. Welcome to our Neighborhood. 2019’s abundant winter rain and a long, moderate growing season allowed for extended hang times and exceptional fruit quality.
$ 37.99
95 points
New limited Chardonnay release from the famed Brewer-Clifton label in Santa Barbara! The wines of Brewer-Clifton represent the essence of the best vineyards in the Santa Rita Hills area and focus on the production of single vineyard-designated Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from carefully selected vineyards in the SRH appellation.
previous ratings 95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "One of the great values out there, the Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills offers thrilling notes of white flowers, white peach, currants, and toasted bread. This ripe, sexy wine is unquestionably at the same level as the more expensive single vineyard releases, and it will evolve for just as long...This was another thrilling lineup from Greg Brewer, and I consistently rate these wines as some of the greatest in the Sta. Rita Hills, as well as all of Santa Barbara County. These are brilliant wines."
93 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): " The Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills) is a gorgeous appellation-level wine from Brewer-Clifton. Creamy and ample, the 2017 is absolutely delicious. Tangerine, mint, lemon peel and sweet spice notes all meld together in a striking, nuanced Chardonnay that hits all the right notes. Positively stellar. That's pretty much all there is to it."
As readers will know, the Brewer-Clifton wines see no new oak at all. "I want all the expression and the decadence to come from the outside, so I use very old barrels and no stirring for Chardonnay," Greg explains. "Chardonnay is whole-cluster pressed, and the Pinot Noirs are whole-cluster fermented, from 70% to 100% for the single-vineyard designates. For me, stems are like a corset. We have so much fruit out here. I’ve spent 25 years working with stems as a means of framing and corseting, so we work with stems to shape and lift."
$ 19.99
Limited production new Chardonnay from Brown Estate!
House of Brown, the second label of Brown Estate. Napa's first Black-owned estate winery, established in 1996. The label is the picture of INCLUSIVITY and the belief that all are welcome. 95% Chardonnay with 5% Vermentino, Brown Estate sourced this fruit from Lodi, CA. Aged in stainless steel to retain freshness, this wine is light, crisp, elegant, and juicy with a bright yet round mouthfeel. It starts off on the nose with pineapple, starfruit, and guava with secondary notes of flowering star jasmine, orange blossoms, and traces of honeysuckle, lemon verbena, and meringue. Drink liberally with paired with crab cakes, grilled oysters, seafood carpaccio, corndogs, truffle fries, mac and cheese.
$ 37.99
New release
CADE is Plumpjack's hot new winery on Howell Mountain. Limited.
This Cade 2021 Sauvignon Blanc is filled with a gorgeous perfume of honeyed pears, guava, lemon grass, pink grapefruit and a waft of lemon lime soda. The palate is full of tropical flavors and delicate kiwi plus a greatintensity of lemon and lime citrus flavors. The semillon and viognier added to the blend invoke another level of complexity with flavors orange blossom and lemon curd. The barrel fermentations add a satiny texture, density and viscosity to the mid-palate of the wine. The concrete adds a touch of flint and mineral to the finish of the wine while the stainless steel fermentations preserve the natural Sauvignon Blanc aromatics, the racy backbone and the zesty crispness..
Brix26 Inside Scoop: PlumpJack's new winery, Cade, is up on Napa Valley's Howell Mountain and is turning out some fantastricly rich mountain Cabernets. On your next visit to the Napa Valley we recommend a visit to taste their wines from the stunning views at the winery.
$ 44.99
New release now available!
Cakebread produces one of the most popular Chardonnays from the Napa Valley - get the new release now.
The very aromatic Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay Napa Valley offers delightfully forward aromas of ripe pears and apples, with intriguing scents of guava and banana. On the palate, the wine boasts a full, fleshy texture and rich, ripe flavors balanced by subtle, spicy oak tones and an excellent underpinning of acidity. Delicious now, this very flavorful Napa Valley Chardonnay will gain additional bouquet and complexity with 18-24 months of further bottle age. Very limited.
$ 33.00
Cakebread Cellars Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc is a fresh, rich , vivacious white wine with bright grapefruit, lime, melon and hay aromas and concentrated kiwi, citrus and green apple flavors. Its refreshingly flinty, mineral-y finish makes it a mouthwatering aperitif wine as well as a great accompaniment to a wide range of seafood, poulty, vegetarian and salad dishes.
Cakebread harvests their Sauvignon Blanc grapes at night to ensure the freshest, highest-quality juice!
$ 32.00
A rare white release from Carlisle. Limited.
previous vintage 95 Points and 'Editor's Choice' Wine Enthusiast: "This unusual blend combines old-vine Sémillon from the Monte Rosso Vineyard with Muscadelle and Palomino. Voluptuous on the nose, the wine is restrained on the palate, with inviting layers of licorice, beeswax and stone fruit. Exotic and long lasting, it’s an intriguing wine. Alcohol 14.2%. 330 cases produced.
Carlisle's White Wine The Derivative is a blend of Semillon, Muscadelle and Palomino, a modern-day version of Hock, a white blend that was popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Almonds, hazelnuts, dried flowers, mint and licorice all blossom in an inviting, textured white long on personality and class. Dried flowers, honey and mint add nuance on the finish. It is amazing to consider that these vineyards were planted between 1886 and 1920.
$ 32.00
A rare white release from Carlisle. Limited.
In this vintage, we picked the older terraced portion of our Grüner on September 5th at 21.9 Brix and the younger, rolling hill portion on September 9th at 24.2 Brix. Our goal here was to produce very different wines to give us a broader range of “colors” for blending. Sure enough, through multiple blending trials, we found that a blend of all of each lot produced the finest wine. The first pick provided backbone and verve; the second pick provided fruit and palate volume. No malolactic fermentation to preserve freshness. Filtered but unfined.
The Carlisle 2020 Gruner Veltliner is medium straw-yellow. Intense, fragrant aromas of green apple (I’m reminded of Laffy Taffy!) Crenshaw melon, and white pepper. This is classy stuff! On the palate, medium bodied with flavors of quince, green apple, and quinine. Finishes with a pleasing chalky minerality. We’re finding our whites to be more age-worthy than we anticipated so this can be enjoyed over a number of years. Drink from release through 2028.
$ 17.99
A fantastic alternative to Chardonnay! Over the years, the Caymus Conundrum California White Blend has gained a loyal following appealing to wine critics and consumers alike. Still today, it is unlike any other white wine blend. True to its original intention, Conundrum is an exciting blend of different varieties from several viticulture areas of California.
Critically acclaimed, the harvest fermented to what is consider an outstanding vintage for Conundrum. The five varietals used to make this wine are grown in Tulare, Napa, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Marin County. The Wagner family launched Conundrum more than 20 years ago. According to the winery, "the exact blend is under wraps, every vintage includes Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscat Canelli, and Viognier. Conundrum White is amazingly versatile, with intriguing tropical notes and natural acidity.
$ 38.99
California Chardonnay lovers rejoice! Chalk Hill's new release has it all.
91 Points Robert Parker: "The 2017 Chardonnay Estate opens with notes of toast, cream, lemon pith and hay over a core of Red Delicious apple and banana chips. The medium-bodied palate is rounded and creamy with toasty spice and honey notions, finishing long and lifted with juicy acidity."
92 Points Wine Spectator: "Strikes a balance between rich, spicy oak and an intense core of fruit, echoing pear, apple and melon flavors. Maintains equilibrium, ending with creamy, vanilla-scented oak notes. Drink now. "
Chalk Hill's potential for great Chardonnay was discovered early and it became one of the initial plantings. The oldest, Founder's Block dates back to the establishment of the winery, in 1972, and remains a keystone in the estate's Chardonnay program. the Estate Bottled Chardonnay is assembled from vineyard blocks that each provides an individual lot of finished wine— 100% Chardonnay, but from a variety of clonal selections— and from a variety of sites on the estate. Get the new release before the ratings come out!
Robert Parker: "This estate is now owned by William Foley, who purchased it from the Firth family that founded the vineyard. Chalk Hill is one of Northern California's older AVAs, established in 1985."
$ 730.00
100 Points - limited
Extremely limited new white from Rhone Valley master Chapoutier.
100 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "One of the most singular wines I’m able to taste each year is unquestionably the l’Ermite Blanc from Chapoutier and it certainly lives up to the billing in 2015. Offering what I can only describe as a liquid rock (a liqueur of rocks?) character intermixed with notes of buttered citrus, pineapple, smoked meats, charcoal and toast, the 2015 Ermitage l’Ermite is full-bodied, decadent and locked and loaded on the palate. It needs 2-3 years of cellaring and I suspect will keep for half a century."
98 Points Wine Spectator: "Bright and pure, with a beautiful core of white peach, heather, yellow apple, star fruit and mirabelle plum notes backed by light citrus oil and verbena threads on the finish. Shows energy and tension throughout, with depth in reserve thanks to a long quinine echo at the end. Really stunning. Drink now through 2040. 204 cases made."
$ 64.99
Chateau Montelena is one of California's historic wineries and consistent producer of some of the best Chardonnay in Napa Valley. Discover why Chateau Montelena Chardonnay beat the French at the Paris tasting in 1976!
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Chateau Montelena's Chardonnay is bright, focused and tightly wound, with tons of citrus peel, orchard fruit and floral character. Medium in body, with terrific energy underpinning the fruit, the 2019 is a winner. Picking early and blocking the malolactic fermentation yields a finely sculpted, nuanced Chardonnay long on class. I loved it."
$ 39.99
This exquisite white burgundy is owned by Oregon's Domaine Serene. A beautiful Premier Cru Chardonnay from the Côte Chalonnaise region of Burgundy! Limited.
Crafted by the venerable Chevalier de la Crée estate, the Knight's Templar Cuvée offers clean, pure expressions of Premier Cru Burgundian terroir. The Montagny Premier Cru comes from 100% Chardonnay fruit grown in the limestone-rich soils that make Montagny the most highly regarded region for Chardonnay in Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise.
The 2018 Chevalier de la Crée Montagny Premier Cru Chardonnay is fresh and fruit driven with floral hints of honey suckle, and delicate expressions of apple, pear, and pure stone fruit tendencies. A concentration of acidity and minerality coats the palate with a lovely weight and viscosity, as the flavors and sea salt-driven aspect linger in the mouth for a long persistent finish.
$ 33.00
Great opportunity to try one of Napa Valley's limited Sauvignon Blancs from up-and-coming Cliff Lede Vineyards!
The Cliff Lede Sauvignon Blanc is loaded with aromas of Meyer lemon and candle wax atop layers of honeysuckle, ginger, and tangerine. Spring blossoms of wisteria, lupin, and California buckeye abound in the upper register of the seductive perfume. The full-bodied, coating mouthfeel expands out on the palate with a rich crème brûlée like texture as unctuous notes of bosc pear, orange marmalade, and lavender honey coalesce along the long, satisfying finish.
Proprietor Cliff Lede has put together a top-notch winemaking triumvirate that includes the extraordinary talents of Winemaker Michelle Edwards (formerly of Colgin), Vineyard Manager David Abreu (Harlan, Colgin, Bryant Family Vineyards, and Screaming Eagle), and internationally renowned Winemaking Consultant, Michel Rolland (Harlan, Bon Pasteur), operating in what was formerly the S. Anderson Winery.
$ 69.99
Rare release from California's newcult spraklign wine producer. Limited.
The Cruse Wine Co. Tradition Rosé Sparkling Wine is 68% Pinot Noir approx 7% still Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay. The grapes were pressed using a traditional Champagne cycle and press cut. The vineyards were fermented separately in barrel with native yeasts, natural malolactic fermentation, and no sulfur added. In the late spring, the wines were blended and tirage bottled. After nearly two years on lees, the bottles were riddled and disgorged with 6 g/L dosage. Pressure: 5.5 bar. Sourced from several sites including Rorick Heritage Vineyard high in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Alder Springs from Mendocino County, Keefer Ranch in Sonoma, and a small amount of wine for Linda Vista in Napa
96 Points Robert Parker: "The 2018 Tradition Sparkling Rosé is a new cuvée from Cruse Wine Co. Made using the traditional method, it is composed of 68% Pinot Noir and 32% Chardonnay from several vineyards including Rorick Heritage in Sierra Foothills, Alder Springs in Mendocino, Keefer Ranch in Sonoma and Linda Vista in Napa. "Vins clairs don't often taste great," notes winemaker Michael Cruse. "But the 2018 rosé tasted incredible from barrel." Cruse Wine Co.'s sparklings are technically non-vintage—you won't find the vintage listed on the label—but this first iteration is composed entirely of fruit from the 2018 vintage. Grapes were fermented in barrel and disgorged with six grams per liter dosage after two years on the lees. About 7% red wine was added to the blend to produce its medium cherry-pink color, and it has 5.5 bars of pressure. The nose offers a layered, singular perfume of warm peaches and strawberries, biscuit, spring butter and toast, expertly balancing ripe California fruit and savory autolytic character. Medium-bodied and dry, the palate is intense and savory, with biscuit-laced flavors and bright bursts of pure raspberry character. It has a fine, creamy texture, a long finish and loads of personality! 565 cases were made."
Michael Cruse might no longer be the new kid on the block but his wines are still the freshest around. The wines of Cruse Wine Co. are crushable homages to modern Californian cuisine and culture. Cruse helped revolutionize the image of what California wines can be and was one of the first proponents of a more balanced and delicate style. In 2016, he was recognized by the SF Chronicle and named Winemaker of the Year. Sadly, since the secret is out, his wines don’t stay on the shelves too long. Now is your chance to get your hands on some of the best locally made wines around that push the envelope! What makes Cruse wines a must for your wine rack is that these are wines made for the type of local and ethnically diverse food we’re actually eating, and for the outdoor park-chilling life we will one day get back to. These aren’t stodgy extracted Cabs and Chards of yesteryear that demand big hunks of meat or floods of butter and heavy cream. These are light, energetic wines that know how to move with the spice of a Baja fish taco and are down to take a bit of chill for a refreshing glass al fresco.
$ 64.99
Limited new Signature Chardonnay release from Darioush. Order while it's still available.
100% Chardonnay, sourced exclusively from Darioush's estate vineyards in the Napa Valley, Oak Knoll and Carneros districts, and aged for eleven months in 70% new French oak.
Tasting Notes: "Influenced by a cooler than average growing season, the Darioush Signature Chardonnay is powerful, sleek and vibrant, and was bottled unfiltered to maintain a strong sense of place and high concentration of flavor. Bright aromatics of white peach and quince entice, with layers of green apple, creamy lemon meringue, yeast and toasted wheat in the mid-palate, finishing with a pure, delicate minerality. A promising vintage that will evolve well for several years."
$ 59.99
One of California's greatest white wines is the Darioush Viognier - try it while this small-production gem is still available!
90 Points Wine Spectator: "This strikes the right balance between bold and graceful, with ripe apricot and mango flavors providing a fleshy texture, showing details of peach blossom and yellow apple, with refreshing acidity. Drink now."
The Darioush Estate Grown Signature Viognier derives its unique style from a four-acre vineyard site in the Oak Knoll appellation. The cool micro-climate of the vineyard allows this temperamental varietal to slowly develop robust and concentrated floral and fruit characteristics. The fruit, and resulting wine, is minimally handled to express its pure and fragrant nature. Honeysuckle, jasmine and citrus fruit aromas leap from the glass, introducing a vibrant and succulent mouthfeel of juicy peach and cantaloupe balanced by the bright acidity of Fuji apple and lemon zest. The 2014 Viognier finishes with lingering notes of dried apricot, nutmeg and vanilla bean.
$ 74.99
This is 100% Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs, rich, with a surprisingly delicate quality, round yet mineral. It features a rose-like nose with citrus and ginger, and in the mouth hints of biscuit and breadcrust. Fantastic with rich, creamy seafood dishes especially.
91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: (made from fruit grown in the grand crus Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Cramant and Avize): "Light, green-tinged gold. High-pitched lemon, lime, talc and quinine aromas show very good clarity. Very dry, but there's impressive heft and body to its juicy orchard fruit and bitter citrus zest flavors. The dry finish displays very good energy and mineral-driven persistence."
$ 299.99
Dom Perignon is of the highest-rated and best Champagnes anywhere. Forget Cristal and the others, this is the one to buy while it's still available! Very Limited
98 Points James Suckling: "The Dom Perignon 2012 Brut is a firm and vivid Champagne with a precise, focused palate. Full-bodied and dry. It’s very layered and bright with light pineapple, peach, praline, cooked-apple and stone aromas and flavors. It’s very subtle and focused at the end. Integrated with richness and high acidity. Good depth. Reminds me of the 1995. Very clean. Solid. Lovely to drink already, but will age nicely."
The Dom Perignon 2012 Brut Champagne is the latest release from this venerable Champagne house and can easily be aged 20+ years, if you can wait that long.
Is this a gift? You can choose a gift card message of your choice during checkout and the wine will be wrapped in tissue paper and accompanied by tasting notes.
$ 19.99
One of the finest rosés from France! Limited.
91 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): ""Bright orange-pink. Powerful aromas of ripe red berries, cherry pit and blood orange, plus a floral note in the background. Palate-caressing raspberry, bitter cherry and tangerine flavors reveal a deeper suggestion of nectarine. Smooth and expansive on the persistent finish, which repeats the pit and red fruit notes"
Domaine de la Mordorée is a 33-year-old domaine that was founded and run heart-and-soul by Christophe Delorme (a Lafond cousin) until his sudden death by heart attack in 2015. Delorme was known as a conscientious winemaker and biodynamic grower, one of the only left to fully hand-harvest his Tavel. He produced a string of stellar Châteauneuf-du-Pape vintages, excellent Lirac and distinctive Tavels.
$ 29.99
94 Points - fantastic buy
New Chardonnay release from Mount Eden's Domaine label.
94 Points Wine Enthusiast: "This more affordable cousin to the Mt. Eden brand the Domaine Eden Chardonnay is just as good, though different. It presents dairy aromas of brie cheese rind and yogurt but in a deliciously approachable way, with diced chives, caramelized pear and citronella elements. The palate shows tremendous energy, with lots of lime and lemon pith, but also a sour-cream richness."
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Vibrant and intense, with roasted nut and toasted spice overtones to the plush peach, lemon curd and marmalade notes. Smooth and supple, but there's an elegant thread of acidity weaving in and out, plus a hint of rooibos tea on the finish. Drink now."
The Domaine Eden Chardonnay blend this year was 60% from Mount Eden's estate vines and 40% from Domaine Eden. The grapes were picked by hand and crushed within three hours of harvest, barrel-fermented in Burgundy barrels and aged on the lees for ten months. This wine is icy clean, vibrant and mineral in style with flavors of citrus zest, quince and spring flowers. For lovers of precision and delicacy in the expression of Chardonnay, this is it.
$ 64.99
95 Points
Domaine Serene is one of Oregon's best wineries and their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays Evenstad Reserve are the cream of the crop. Oregon Chardonnay at it's finest!
95 Points "Editor's Choice" Wine Enthusiast: "This is one of the finest Evenstad Reserves to date, bringing a stunningly good mix of tree fruits nuanced by barrel flavors of butterscotch and toasted hazelnut. It all leads into a sappy, cinnamon-inflected finish that lingers gracefully and promises to age well through 2025."
92 Points Robert Parker: "The Chardonnay Evenstad Reserve opens with a great streak of petrichor over fresh yellow apple and Bosc pear notes with accents of hay, crème fraîche and toast. Medium to full-bodied and creamy textured in the mouth, it gives up toasty flavors with a great core of concentrated, ripe fruit and juicy, mouthwatering acidity, finishing long and minerally."