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Collector Napa Cabernets 6-Pack
$ 449.00
We've made choosing a gift for Cabernet lovers easy with our 6-Pack featuring Napa Valley's top Collectible Cabernets. A must for any Cabernet-lover! 10% discount already built into price.
Each 6-pack includes one bottle of the following wines:
Silver Oak 2017 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Joseph Phelps 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Cakebread 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Duckhorn 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Shafer 2018 One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Schrader 2018 "Double Diamond" Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
All bottles come wrapped in tissue paper with complete tasting notes on each wine. Gift Card available at checkout
Continuum 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Sold Out
98 Points - limited
Continuum is the new tiny production Cabernet from the Mondavi Family. Extremely limited.
98 Points James Suckling: "Wonderful blackberry and blackcurrant aromas here with hints of mint and fresh sage. Some cassis. Wrought iron, too. Full-bodied, tight and elegant with lovely tension. Beautiful. Ends fine and focused. Drinkable now, but better after 2022."
97+ Points Robert Parker: "A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 9% Merlot, the deep garnet-purple 2017 Proprietary Red soars out of the glass with notions of baked blueberries, plum preserves and blackcurrant cordial, backed up by nuances of chocolate mint, wild sage, violets and pencil shavings, plus an earthy hint of Chinese five spice. The rich, seductive, full-bodied palate is jam-packed with spicy black fruit preserves, framed by wonderfully plush tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and opulent...
..I was super-impressed with the wines I tasted from Continuum Estate, Tim Mondavi’s new venture on Pritchard Hill, not far from Chappellet and Bryant Family. Mondavi is gradually moving towards 100% estate fruit, but these early vintages include some fruit from vineyards in Oakville and Stags Leap. Continuum is distinguished by a fairly large presence of Cabernet Franc. This is one of the most exciting new properties in Napa Valley."
Brix26 Inside Scoop: After the sale of the Robert Mondavi winery, winemaker Tim Mondavi chose to focus on one wine and one varietal: Continuum is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from Continuum's Estate vineyard on Napa Valley's Pritchard Hill, one of the priciest Cabernet regions in all of California with neighbors like Colgin, Bryant Family and Chappellet. It's a beautiful site and judging from the Continuum 2013 Cabernet will be among Napa's most coveted collector wines.
Continuum 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 550.00
99 points
Continuum is the new tiny production Cabernet from the Mondavi Family. Very Limited. Rare Magnums.
98 Points James Suckling: "Wonderful blackberry and blackcurrant aromas here with hints of mint and fresh sage. Some cassis. Wrought iron, too. Full-bodied, tight and elegant with lovely tension. Beautiful. Ends fine and focused. Drinkable now, but better after 2022."
97+ Points Robert Parker: "A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 9% Merlot, the deep garnet-purple 2017 Proprietary Red soars out of the glass with notions of baked blueberries, plum preserves and blackcurrant cordial, backed up by nuances of chocolate mint, wild sage, violets and pencil shavings, plus an earthy hint of Chinese five spice. The rich, seductive, full-bodied palate is jam-packed with spicy black fruit preserves, framed by wonderfully plush tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and opulent...
..I was super-impressed with the wines I tasted from Continuum Estate, Tim Mondavi’s new venture on Pritchard Hill, not far from Chappellet and Bryant Family. Mondavi is gradually moving towards 100% estate fruit, but these early vintages include some fruit from vineyards in Oakville and Stags Leap. Continuum is distinguished by a fairly large presence of Cabernet Franc. This is one of the most exciting new properties in Napa Valley."
Brix26 Inside Scoop: After the sale of the Robert Mondavi winery, winemaker Tim Mondavi chose to focus on one wine and one varietal: Continuum is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from Continuum's Estate vineyard on Napa Valley's Pritchard Hill, one of the priciest Cabernet regions in all of California with neighbors like Colgin, Bryant Family and Chappellet. It's a beautiful site and judging from the Continuum 2013 Cabernet will be among Napa's most coveted collector wines.
Continuum 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 569.99
100 Points - limited
Continuum is the new tiny production Cabernet from the Mondavi Family. Extremely limited.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Composed of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot, the deep garnet-purple 2018 Proprietary Red has a fantastically fragrant nose of candied violets, red roses, Morello cherries and blackcurrant pastilles with hints of wild blueberries, red currant jelly, iron ore and forest floor, plus a waft of cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely packed with tightly wound black and red berry layers, framed by firm, ripe, finely grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with incredibly persistent and evocative floral and mineral layers. An absolute head-turner, this 2018 is all that and then some. Tim Mondavi mentioned that this is due to be bottled in just a few weeks—mid-August—meaning this barrel sample I tasted is pretty close to being a finished wine. With the estate vineyard turning 10 year's old in 2018, here's where we see how incredibly special this singular Pritchard Hill site really is....
..I was super-impressed with the wines I tasted from Continuum Estate, Tim Mondavi’s new venture on Pritchard Hill, not far from Chappellet and Bryant Family. Mondavi is gradually moving towards 100% estate fruit, but these early vintages include some fruit from vineyards in Oakville and Stags Leap. Continuum is distinguished by a fairly large presence of Cabernet Franc. This is one of the most exciting new properties in Napa Valley."
Continuum 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 299.99
100 Points - limited
Continuum is the new tiny production Cabernet from the Mondavi Family. Extremely limited.
99 Points James Suckling: "Blackberries, dark wet soil and blackcurrants. Graphite, too. So aromatic. Pure fruit. Full-bodied with superbly polished, fine tannins that draw you down through the center of palate. Extremely layered and the texture is so curated, giving wonderful persistence. Real plushness and fine, velvety texture. 50% cabernet sauvignon, 37% cabernet franc, 7% petit verdot and 6% merlot."
previous vintage 100 Points Robert Parker: "Composed of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot, the deep garnet-purple 2018 Proprietary Red has a fantastically fragrant nose of candied violets, red roses, Morello cherries and blackcurrant pastilles with hints of wild blueberries, red currant jelly, iron ore and forest floor, plus a waft of cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely packed with tightly wound black and red berry layers, framed by firm, ripe, finely grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with incredibly persistent and evocative floral and mineral layers. An absolute head-turner, this 2018 is all that and then some. Tim Mondavi mentioned that this is due to be bottled in just a few weeks—mid-August—meaning this barrel sample I tasted is pretty close to being a finished wine. With the estate vineyard turning 10 year's old in 2018, here's where we see how incredibly special this singular Pritchard Hill site really is....
..I was super-impressed with the wines I tasted from Continuum Estate, Tim Mondavi’s new venture on Pritchard Hill, not far from Chappellet and Bryant Family. Mondavi is gradually moving towards 100% estate fruit, but these early vintages include some fruit from vineyards in Oakville and Stags Leap. Continuum is distinguished by a fairly large presence of Cabernet Franc. This is one of the most exciting new properties in Napa Valley."
Brix26 Inside Scoop: After the sale of the Robert Mondavi winery, winemaker Tim Mondavi chose to focus on one wine and one varietal: Continuum is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from Continuum's Estate vineyard on Napa Valley's Pritchard Hill, one of the priciest Cabernet regions in all of California with neighbors like Colgin, Bryant Family and Chappellet. It's a beautiful site and judging from the Continuum 2013 Cabernet will be among Napa's most coveted collector wines.
Copain 2014 "Tous Ensemble" Syrah
$ 27.99
A fantastic young Syrah from Copain. Wells Guthrie, who has worked for Turley in California to the Rhone Valley in France, has produced a great value in this zesty, delicious Syrah.
Robert Parker: "One of Copain’s best values every year is the Saisons des Vins Syrah, Guthrie’s interpretation of a St.-Joseph or Crozes-Hermitage. Reveals hints of tapenade, pepper, red cherries, and cassis along with zesty acidity and a fruit-driven style. About 15% whole clusters were used in its upbringing. This delicious, fun Syrah should drink well for 3-4 years."
Corison 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 99.99
Cathy Corison makes one of our favorite "true" Napa Cabernets from great benchland vineyards between Rutherford and St. Helena. If you haven't tried her Corison Cabs yet do yourself a favor and discover them now.
97 Points Wine Enthusiast *Cellar Selection*: "This understated, elegant study in the variety opens in beguiling aromas of floral rose before opening into a finely made, structured and gracefully constructed wine that's fully in balance. Leather, black cherry and dark chocolate highlight a midpalate of finely polished, tamed tannin and integrated oak."
Cornerstone Cellars 2016 Benchlands Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 59.99
A fantastic new discovery predominately sourced from both Oakville and Rutherford sub-AVA’s.
Cornerstone Cellars 2016 Benchlands Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from four outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard sites, each adding a unique personality. This wine highlights the complexity and diversity of winegrowing in the Napa Valley which is the secret to its silky textures and rich balance. From the vibrant sophistication and refined clarity of South Napa and Yountville which seamlessly blend with the bold, earthy aromatics and tannic structure of Oakville, to the muscular, dense and concentrated fruit of Howell Mountain.
Tasting Notes: "A gentle and harmonious wine exhibiting a fresh, vibrant nose, generously laced with rich red and black berry fruit, subtle barrel spices with a touch of savory dried herbs to add further nuance and complexity. A youthful, energetic, high-toned palate reveals a deep core of layered berry fruits, broadening further to uncover depth and velvety tannins that flow seamlessly, growing in volume as the wine flows to a lingering finish with a vibrantly balanced acidity. Drinking beautifully now with all its elegance and finesse this enthusiastic wine will grow and evolve and become even more delicious."
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
Crocker & Starr 2017 Cabernet Franc Blend, Napa Valley
$ 49.99
95 Points
For years, Pam Starr (Crocker & Starr, Adastra) and Drew Neiman (previously assistant winemaker at Kongsgaard and Arietta) have been crafting exceptional wines under their own labels. Now they have joined together for the new release previously known as Bridesmaid.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Moving to the reds and another insane value, the Cabernet Franc A.V.A Red Blend checks in as 60% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot, and 6% Malbec that spent 22 months in 50% new barrels. Black cherries, savory earth, currants, and forest floor notes all flow to a medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, elegant red blend that should be snatched up by readers. It’s going to keep for over a decade."
Robert Parker: "This is a brilliant project putting together blends that are declassified from other wineries…These are impressively put together wines.”
Dancing Hares 2019 "Mad Hatter" Proprietary Red, Napa Valley
$ 49.99
New release from former Screaming Eagle winemaker Andy Erickson and an all-star team. Fantastic find!
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "The Proprietary Red Mad Hatter, 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot, is a big-time winner. It has a gorgeously deep ruby/purple color, a sweet kiss of licorice, blackcurrants, black cherries, camphor and incense. The wine is fragrant, with supple tannins, an opulent lushness and a total hedonistic and intellectual turn-on. Drink it over the next 10-12 years."
This fantastic blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot is another outstanding wine crafted by winemaker favorite, Andy Erickson, consulted by Michel Rolland and vineyard manager David Abreu. Paula Brooks and Bob Cook are the proprietors of Dancing Hares and the stewards of the land that so thoughtfully produces the significantly poised vines at the foot of Howell Mountain.
Delamotte Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne
$ 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."
Diamond Creek 2018 Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 284.99
Among the original Cult Cabernets, Diamond Creek continues to amaze in 2010 with a trio of wines that must be included in any serious collector's stash as one of the most ageable Cabs in California. Red Rock Terrace is a warm microclimate, 7 acres of north facing vineyard. The red tinted soil is high in iron content. The wine from Red Rock Terrace is the most accessible and earliest to be really drinkable of all Diamond Creek releases. This Cabernet boasts velvety tannins, rich and well balanced, medium dark ruby color with cherry, mint and black currant flavors.
97 Points Robert Parker: "The Diamond Creek 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Gravelly Meadow is a blend of 78.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.4% Merlot, 8% Malbec and 5.1% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it slips effortlessly from the glass, singing of ripe black cherries, black raspberries and cassis, plus hints of red currants, roses, cinnamon stick and garrigue. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers lovely freshness, offering bags of perfumed black fruits in the mouth, beautifully supported by fine-grained tannins, finishing long with lots of soft-spoken floral and mineral whispers. This perfumed beauty wears the 2018 vintage stamp well, presenting a more delicate expression of this vineyard—one that I love! 647 cases were made."
"You couldn't script it much better, in terms of weather and climate," said Diamond Creek's new winemaker Graham Wehmeier, speaking about the 2018 vintage. "The only issue for a lot of winemakers in Napa Valley was tank space."
Dolce 2013 Late Harvest (375ml half bottle)
$ 79.99
Napa Valley's Dolce Winery, owned by the folks at Far Niente, is the only winery in North America that is solely devoted to producing a single, late harvest wine. It is one of the few wineries in the world willing to make such a commitment, sharing a common philosophy with the great Sauternes producers of Bordeaux. 375ml "half bottle".
98 Points Wine Enthusiast: "With this wine, Dolce cements its status as California's most consistently great dessert wine. This year's blend is 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, and the grapes were infected with teh botrytis, resultikng in the fantastic sweetness. Devastating in apricot, orange, pear,honey, vanilla, and creme brulee flavors, in an unctuous, viscous texture, with wonderfully clean acidity, it's certainly one of the greatest sweet California wines in recent memory."
Domaine de Bila Haut 2018 "L'Esquerda" Cotes du Roussillon-Villages
$ 26.99
94 points
A stunning value from the South of France! The Domaine de Bila Haut "L'Esquerda" Cotes du Roussillon-Villages now available - limited.
94 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Coming from higher elevation granite soils and just about all Syrah, the 2018 Côtes Du Roussillon Villages Lesquerde L'Esquerda offers stunning granite character with its cassis and black raspberry fruit intermixed with lots of wet stone, ground pepper, white flowers, and hints of truffle. Deep, medium to full-bodied, beautifully pure and elegant on the palate, with light tannins, it's going to keep for upwards of a decade."
93 Points Robert Parker: "A 60-40 blend of Grenache and Syrah, the 2018 Cotes du Roussillon Villages Lesquerde l'Esquerda looks potentially outstanding. Crushed stone accents give this full-bodied red a sense of austerity, while the blueberry and cherry fruit is bold and muscular, yielding to a long, mouthwatering finish. Michel Chapoutier's Roussillon outpost is a worthy extension to his Rhône Valley operations. The emphasis is on the same varieties—Grenache and Syrah, in varying proportions depending on the terroir—and overall quality is very good, with the séléctions parcellaires particularly notable for their excellence and limited production volumes...I continue to be blown away by the quality coming from Domaine de la Bila Haut, which is run with the Chapoutier team."
Michel Chapoutier established Bila-Haut in 1999 when he determined he could make top notch wines in this region that rivaled his own from the Rhone. The winery, built in Latour de France, has vineyards throughout the region. All Domaine wines are farmed biodynamically. L'Esquerda comes from parcels in the granitic soils near the town of Lesquerde. Composed of primarily Syrah, this is another touchstone wine from this touchstone producer.
Domaine des Bosquets 2017 Gigondas, France
$ 39.99
93 Points - Great New Discovery
A great new discovery from the Southern Rhone! One of the top wines of the vintage.
94 Points Wine Enthusiast "Editors Choice": "Traditional Rhône varieties like Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault are augmented by a small proportion of Petite Syrah in the Domaine des Bousquets Gigondas. Seductive on the nose, it offers perfumes of rose petal and crème de cassis accented by clove and thyme. Glossy blackberry flavor broods on the palate and finishes on ripe, velvety tannins. Lovely already, the wine should improve through 2030."
93 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Leading off the reds from this terrific estate, the Domaines des Bosquets 2017 Gigondas checks in as an unusual blend of 40% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault that was brought up in a mix of vessels (the Grenache is in demi-muids, the Syrah in barrel) for 18 months. Its deep purple-tinged color is followed by a great bouquet of kirsch and black raspberry fruits intermixed with lots of spicy, peppery, and garrigue. It’s soft, sexy, and rounded on the palate, with medium to full-bodied richness. Drink it over the coming decade or more."
Robert Parker: "...Owned by the Brechet family (of Chateau Vaudieu in Chateauneuf du Pape) Domaine des Bosquets covers 75 acres (65 of which are in Gigondas) and is run by the young, yet incredibly talented, Julien Brechet. Philippe Cambie also consults here, and while the style emphasizes fruit and texture, these never lose their southern Rhone style. This is an estate that needs to be on every reader’s radar!"
This 26 hectare estate is one of the top Domaines in Gigondas. The winemaker here is Laurent Brechet who displays the same attention to detail and emphasis on quality as he does for the wines he makes at Château de Vaudieu in Châteauneuf du Pape. Located at the south west of the appelation, the ‘Lieu Dit‘ lies on exceptional sandy soils which give the Grenache its fine tannins, airy flavours and wonderful acidity which balances its power so well.
Domaine des Bosquets 2018 Gigondas, France
Sold Out
Sorry we have sold out - but we do have a small amount of the 2017 vintage available while its lasts.
95 Points Robert Parker: "Smart money will be chasing the Bosquets 2018 Gigondas, which is nearly as stunning as the special cuvées this year. A blend of 45% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault, it boasts complex aromas of garrigue, cola, blood orange and raspberries. Full-bodied, silky-textured and long on the finish, it should drink well on release and for at least a decade thereafter...The wines emanating from this meticulously run estate must now be considered at or near the very top of the heap within Gigondas. This is an estate that needs to be on every reader’s radar!"
95 Points Decanter: "The original blended Domaine des Bosquets Gigondas is now available in two cuvées: Font des Bosquets (young vines, shorter ageing, no oak) and Réserve (older vines, 14 plots vinified separately including fruit from the top single vineyard sites, maturation in different types of oak for 18 months depending on the variety). The result is an extraordinary exercise in elegance, beautifully silky tannins and deeply vinous fruit. This is long, shapely and tapered with depth, freshness, elegance, and a seamless character. It's quite an expressive, almost showy wine, but it will be excellent when it's ready. Not as strongly characterful as each of the single vineyard expressions, but better balanced, and more quintessentially Gigondas. In organic conversion."
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Leading off the 2018s from bottle, the Domaine des Bosquets 2018 Gigondas Réserve is a mix of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah, and can be thought of as the classic cuvée of the domaine. It’s beautifully done and shows the style of the domaine in its full-bodied, rich, yet also elegant profile. Offering a mix of red and black fruits, herbes de Provence, peppery garrigue, and flowers, this beauty is flawlessly balanced, has a round, layered mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and just tons of character. Drink this little gem anytime over the coming decade."
This 26 hectare estate is one of the top Domaines in Gigondas. The winemaker here is Laurent Brechet who displays the same attention to detail and emphasis on quality as he does for the wines he makes at Château de Vaudieu in Châteauneuf du Pape. Located at the south west of the appelation, the ‘Lieu Dit‘ lies on exceptional sandy soils which give the Grenache its fine tannins, airy flavours and wonderful acidity which balances its power so well.
Domaine du Vieux-Télégraphe 2017 Chateauneuf-du-Pape "La Crau", France
$ 104.99
96 Points
The 2017 Domaine du Vieuxe Télégraphe 'La Crau' is one of the iconic, classic red Chateauneuf-du-Papes. The best vintages will age for 25 years and more. It is a dark fruited, brooding, and iron rich red, full of aromatic garrigue and red-fruited freshness. This famous wine will not last long.
96 Points James Suckling: "Immediately a sense of darker fruit in this vintage. Some stony, chalky elements, as well as dried violets and roses. Very compelling, fleshy palate with powerful black fruit and plums and thick, but smooth tannins that will carry it in the cellar. Barrel sample."
95 Points Robert Parker: "Coming from the La Crau lieu-dit, Vieux-Telegraphe's 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau looks to be another excellent vintage. The aromas are floral and fresh, suggesting roses, tea, raspberries and orange zest. The palate is full-bodied but silky and fine, with delicate spice shadings on the finish creating a particularly elegant impression. Drink dates 2020-2035”
Domaine Grand Veneur 2019 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Vielles Vignes
$ 134.99
99 Points
A great new discovery from Chateauneuf-du-Pape. One of the best wines of the great 2019 vintage from Domaine Grand Veneur.
99 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2019 Grand Veneur Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is based on 45% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, with the balance Syrah, all destemmed and raised in 55% new French oak. Gorgeous cassis, violet, graphite, fruitcake, and peppery herbs define this brilliant effort, and it's full-bodied, with a pure, seamless texture, wonderful tannins, and one heck of a great finish. This magical 2019 is going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age (it's brilliant even today) yet keep for 20 years or more. Châteauneuf du Pape lovers need to have this in their cellar!"
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 'A highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red/blue fruits, vanilla and candied flowers, along with Moroccan spice and smoky mineral nuances. Sweet and pliant in the mouth, offering assertive Chambord, boysenberry, lavender and spicecake flavors that deepen steadily through the back half. Plush tannins come in slowly, adding shape to a very long, blue-fruit- and floral-dominated finish."
Located in the Orange commune of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the Jaume family has been dedicated to the art of wine growing since 1826. Since 1979, the domaine has been run by 5th generation Alain Jaume, who is now helped by his children Christophe, Sébastien, and Hélène. The 225-acre estate covers several AOCs and 13 grape types. The Grand Veneur and Clos de Sixte vineyards are certified organic. Plots are located in the northern part of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where the soil is marked by the violence wrought by the Rhône River. It consists of a layer of marine morass of the Miocene period covered by alpine alluvium. The presence of a great number of rounded stones known as "galets" in the earth is evidence of the time when the Rhône, then a torrent, tore fragments of rock from the Alps and deposited them on the plain.
Domaine Jerome Gradassi 2018 Chateauneuf -du-Pape
$ 54.99
An exclusive Chateauneuf-du-Pape that is one of our favorite discoveries from the Rhone Valley. Tiny producer, great price and delicious bottle of wine make this a real winner.
The new Jerome Gradassi Chateauneuf du Pape 2018 was rated by the Revue du Vin de France (France’s most respected wine publication) as one of the 4 best Châteauneuf du Pape of the vintage – alongside Rayas, Capo de Pegau and Clos du Mont Olivet (at a price far less than those)!
We continue to hunt in the Rhône Valley for exciting emerging talent, and in Jérôme Gradassi we have struck the jackpot. Jérôme, 50 years old, was the boss and chef of a Michelin starred restaurant, L’Isle Sonnant in Avignon, until he sold it in 2003 to take up a mere 3½ hectares of vines left to him by his grandfather. In the cellar it’s all very traditional - into old stone tanks for the vinification, then a short ageing in old barrels. 75% Grenache. Scented, perfumed - very herbal and sweet on the nose - and with well-integrated fruits with a hint of cumin and white pepper. Much more accessible than most young Châteauneufs. This has the freshness of the vintage and is really a very accessible example. No rough edges. This has come on very nicely in bottle. Well done!
Domaine Serene 2016 "Evenstad Reserve" Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 159.99
This is a rare MAGNUM (1.5L) bottle.
One of Oregon's most coveted producers of Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley's rare Reserve Pinot Noir.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Polished and gracefully complex, with refined raspberry and strawberry flavors accented by toasty cinnamon and river stone notes, finishing with lithe tannins. Drink now through 2025."
Wine Enthusiast: "Dark, full, generous and ripe to the far edge of elegance, this powerful Pinot is saturated with black fruits, annoted with fennel, pepper, smoke and espresso, the rich and varied flavors rolling right through a lush midpalate and on into a gently fading finish. Retasted over 24-48 hours, it continued to evolve and develop additional nuances. A wine that can develop like a fine Burgundy to cellar for a decade or more."
Domaine Serene 2017 Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley
$ 54.99
One of Oregon's most coveted producers of Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley's rare Reserve Pinot Noir.
This cuvée is billed as the "little sister" to the winery's Evenstad Reserve. Yamhill Cuvée has an aroma profile that consists of red fruits, minerals, spice, earth, and hint of French Oak. The palate offers youthful tannins and balanced acidity which lead to a smooth and graceful finish. It is approachable in its youth, while maintaining the elegance and finesse of a Domaine Serene Pinot Noir.
93 Points James Suckling: "The Domaine Serene 2018 Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir has innately complex style with a spicy edge and plenty of rich red-cherry aromas as well as earthy tones and forest wood. Some sappy undergrowth, too. The palate has neatly articulated tannins and flavors that run to quite deep, darker-fruit tones. Rich finish. This is convincing. Drink or hold."
91 Points Wine Spectator: "A lively, lithe and inviting red, offering an array of red fruit, floral and spice overtones that come together on the focused and deftly balanced finish. Drink now through 2018."
Domaine Serene 2018 "Evenstad Reserve" Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley
$ 84.99
96 Points
One of Oregon's most coveted producers of Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley's rare Reserve Pinot Noir.
96 Points James Suckling: "So much spice is the first impression here, this blended expression is well established as a powerful and complex style of pinot. Fresh red-cherry, potpourri, orange-peel, dried-flower, pomegranate and red and dark-cherry aromas, to name a few. The palate has such concentrated and layered style with dense red-cherry, blueberry and black-cherry flavors, delivered in a seamless build that holds so long. Impressive quality here. Drink or hold."
94 Points Wine Spectator: "A deep, brooding Pinot that slowly unfolds with expressive black cherry, dusty mocha, clove and other spice flavors that fan out on the long, savory finish. Drink now through 2030"
Wine Enthusiast: "Dark, full, generous and ripe to the far edge of elegance, the Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir is a powerful Pinot is saturated with black fruits, annoted with fennel, pepper, smoke and espresso, the rich and varied flavors rolling right through a lush midpalate and on into a gently fading finish. Retasted over 24-48 hours, it continued to evolve and develop additional nuances. A wine that can develop like a fine Burgundy to cellar for a decade or more."
Domaines Ott 2020 Chateau de Selle Rosé, France
$ 49.99 $ 55.00
96 pts
Domaines Ott is the king of French rosés. This is the wine The New York Times dubbed "the summer drink to be seen with!" Order while supplies last.
96 Points Wine & Spirits: "In the world of wine, rosé has it easy: If it’s pink and pretty, it’s already on its way to being well accepted. Rarely does a rosé jump out of the glass and demand attention. But this one seems to have packaged up a Mediterranean breeze along with the scents of strawberries and garrigue, unleashing it with every sip. Today, cousins Christian and Jean- François Ott tend the vines, working with the backing of parent company Louis Roederer, which funded the building of a new winery at the estate in 2017, designed by Carl Fredrik Svenstedt. All those elements came together in a rosé that channels the place it’s grown in an elegant and understated way, yet with a persistence that speaks to its structure and strength. Impressive now, this will be even better with a year or two in bottle."
Hand-picking, extremely selective sorting and delicate pressing of the grapes, and finally maturing in oak barrels, are just some of the reasons why Domaine Ott Rose has a reputation of being "the finest rose in the world." The 2019 Chateau de Selle is a delicious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Cinsault. Domaines Ott's winery is located on a former dwelling of the Counts of Provence, a superb 18th century country house in Provence. The surrounding estate, entirely carved into the rocky land by Marcel Ott, his children and grandchildren, has been remodelled and replanted several times over.
Domaines Ott 2020 Chateau Romassan Rosé, France
$ 49.99 $ 52.00
Domaines Ott is the king of French rosés. This is the wine The New York Times dubbed "the summer drink to be seen with!" Limited release of the 2020 Chateau Romassan rosé.
Hand-picking, extremely selective sorting and delicate pressing of the grapes, and finally maturing in oak barrels, are just some of the reasons why Domaine Ott 2020 Chateau Romassan Rosé has a reputation of being "the finest rose in the world." A delicious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Cinsault. Domaines Ott's winery is located on a former dwelling of the Counts of Provence, a superb 18th century country house in Provence. The surrounding estate, entirely carved into the rocky land by Marcel Ott, his children and grandchildren, has been remodelled and replanted several times over.
Domaines Ott 2020 Clos Mireille Rosé, France
$ 49.99 $ 55.00
Domaines Ott is the king of French rosés. This is the wine The New York Times dubbed "the summer drink to be seen with!" Order while supplies last.
93 Points Robert Parker: "The archetypal pale Mediterranean rosé, the Domaine Ott Cotes de Provence Rose Clos Mireille boasts briny aromas evocative of the sea, with pink grapefruit, cherry and lime notes. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, it's medium-bodied but feels lighter, with a clean, refreshing finish that includes hints of wet stones, peach and citrus. It's a terrific rosé for drinking this summer (or anytime)."
Hand-picking, extremely selective sorting and delicate pressing of the grapes, and finally maturing in oak barrels, are just some of the reasons why Domaine Ott Rose has a reputation of being "the finest rose in the world." A delicious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Cinsault. Domaines Ott's winery is located on a former dwelling of the Counts of Provence, a superb 18th century country house in Provence. The surrounding estate, entirely carved into the rocky land by Marcel Ott, his children and grandchildren, has been remodelled and replanted several times over.
Donum 2018 Estate Pinot Noir, Carneros
$ 69.99
93 Points - limited
Limited new release from one of California's hottest Pinot producers!
Anne Moller Racke planned and planted Donum's Russian River vineyard in the mid-1990s and has farmed the property ever since. The Donum Estate Pinot Noir Carneros is always a best barrel selection from the less vigorous blocks which consistently show something special.
93 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "From the southern end of Napa Valley in the cooler Carneros AVA, the Pinot Noir Carneros Estate is a blend of both younger and older vines and spent 16 months in 55% new French oak. It’s another classic, balanced wine from this estate and has a beautiful array of spice, forest floor, black cherries, and black raspberries on the nose. Fully destemmed, it shines for its purity of fruit and overall classic style. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years."
Dutton-Goldfield 2017 Rued Vineyard Chardonnay
$ 59.99
95 Points - Limited
New release of one of our favorite Russian River Chardonnays!
95 Points Wine Enthusiast: "Rued Ranch consistently is the winery's top bottling. Like its predecessors, is modest in alcohol but vast in citrus, tropical fruit, honeysuckle and mineral flavors, and enriched with smoky oak and buttery notes. It has a delicate mouthfeel that makes it a joy to savor." Only 571 cases produced.
96 points/Gold ~ North Coast Wine Competition
Warren Dutton planted this Chardonnay vineyard on an east-facing hillside west of the town of Graton in 1969. The clone planted in the vineyard, which produces exceptionally exotic, highly identifiable fruit, has since been propagated across California and is now referred to as the "Rued Clone." This vineyard's old vines produce clusters with tiny golden translucent berries with incredibly enticing flavors, floral aromatics and tropical freshness.
Dutton-Goldfield 2018 Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley
$ 44.00
Fantastic new Pinot from Sonoma's famed Dutton Ranch! After working closely together as winemaker and grape grower since 1990, Steve Dutton and Dan Goldfield merged their talents to create Dutton-Goldfield Winery in 1998. Their mission is to produce vineyard-designated Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from their home in the western Russian River Valley. The wines express the unique qualities of fruit from hand-selected vineyards and the work of an appreciative winemaker, and this brand new release certainly showcases that.
The Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir has deep black fruit character, while the nose greets you with lilacs, followed by black cherry, dark chocolate and a streak of blueberry. In the mouth, the black cherry dominates the core of sweetness, complemented by black tea, raspberry and fine-grained tannins. The richness of the wine makes it a perfect match for foie gras, glazed duck, barbecued shrimp, eggplant parmesan and Jarlsberg and Asiago cheeses.
Eisele Vineyard 2018 'Altagracia' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 149.99
97 points
Limited new Altagracia Red from cult producer Eisele Vineyard One of Napa Valley's cult producers this is always a limited release.
97 Points James Suckling: "Intense aromas of black fruit, cocoa powder, black olives, dried violets, tar and cigar box. Some black peppercorn, too. It’s full-bodied with firm, chalky tannins. Incredible intensity and purity of fruit with gorgeous breadth and depth. Superb, new-wave Napa red. 80% cabernet sauvignon, the rest mostly Cabernet Franc with a hit of Petit Verdot."
96 points Robert Parker: "Deep purple-black in color, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Altagracia charges out of the gate with exuberant notions of black raspberries, wild blueberries, freshly crushed blackcurrants and kirsch with touches of candied violets, bay leaves, tilled soil and forest floor plus a hint of dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a fantastic texture of rock-solid, grainy tannins and bold freshness supporting the energetic black and blue fruits, finishing long and savory."
...2018 is the 20th release of Altagracia. While the blend has evolved over the years, the 2018 vintage is a prime example of the "new" Altagracia, now representing the Eastern blocks of Eisele Vineyard (86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot). Reflecting a long and mild growing season, the wine is very refined and clearly built to age. This famous estate tucked away in northeastern Napa Valley in the foothills of the Vaca Mountains is now fully controlled, in both a viticultural and winemaking standpoint, by Château Latour’s François Pinault and his general manager Frédéric Engerer. The new releases include their second wine, the Altagracia."
Eisele Vineyard 2019 'Altagracia' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 169.99
97 points
Limited new Altagracia Red from cult producer Eisele Vineyard One of Napa Valley's cult producers this is always a limited release.
previous vintage 97 Points James Suckling: "Intense aromas of black fruit, cocoa powder, black olives, dried violets, tar and cigar box. Some black peppercorn, too. It’s full-bodied with firm, chalky tannins. Incredible intensity and purity of fruit with gorgeous breadth and depth. Superb, new-wave Napa red. 80% cabernet sauvignon, the rest mostly Cabernet Franc with a hit of Petit Verdot."
95+ points Robert Parker: "Deep purple-black colored, the Eisele Vineyard 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Altagracia comes bounding out of the glass with sit-up-and-beg notes of macerated black cherries, kirsch and boysenberries, giving way to fresh blackcurrants, menthol and crushed rocks with a waft of wild sage. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is jam-packed with rambunctious red and black fruit characters, framed by fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and vibrant....
...2019 is the 21st release of Altagracia. While the blend has evolved over the years, the 2019 vintage is a prime example of the "new" Altagracia, now representing the Eastern blocks of Eisele Vineyard (86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot). Reflecting a long and mild growing season, the wine is very refined and clearly built to age. This famous estate tucked away in northeastern Napa Valley in the foothills of the Vaca Mountains is now fully controlled, in both a viticultural and winemaking standpoint, by Château Latour’s François Pinault and his general manager Frédéric Engerer. The new releases include their second wine, the Altagracia."
Failla 2019 Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 34.99
New Chardonnay release from the private label of Ehren Jordan, Turley's longtime winemaker. Limited.
The final blend of Failla's Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is composed of fruit from Keefer Ranch and the Floodgate Vineyard. The young vine block from the cooler Keefer Ranch site gives the wine blend verve and freshness while the Floodgate Vineyard adds depth and richness. Both vineyards are planted from the Dijon Clone 95 the "Old Wente" selection, which makes some of California's best Chardonnays. It posseses a layered texture accenting the wines natural fruit, minerality and floral character. A small-production gem to snap up while its available.
Failla 2019 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
$ 37.99
New Pinot Noir release from the private label of Ehren Jordan, Turley's longtime winemaker. Limited.
92 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is a fabulous wine at this level. Sweet spices, rose petal, mint and succulent cherry/plum notes all lift from the glass. Supple and beautifully layered throughout, the Sonoma Coast hits all the right notes. A final burst of fruit rushes across the palate on the refreshing, inviting wine. There is so much to like."
A juicy, bold and beautiful Pinot Noir from the SF Chronicle's 2008 Winemaker of the Year. The Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is Failla's blend of young-vine blocks from their multiple Sonoma Coast appellation sources, but mostly from the famed Keefer Ranch vineyard. Only 500 cases produced.
Failla 2019 Seven Springs Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills
$ 62.00
97 Points
New Pinot Noir release from the private label of Ehren Jordan, Turley's longtime winemaker. Limited.
97 Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2019 Pinot Noir Seven Springs Vineyard is a real head-turner. Deep, pliant and explosive, the 2019 possesses off the charts intensity and tons of pure character. Blue/purplish berry fruit, lavender, spice, licorice and mocha infuse the 2019 with so much dimension. This is one of the most extroverted Pinots I have tasted from Ehren Jordan's Oregon range. Wow."
Far Mountain 2019 Myrna Chardonnay, Sonoma Valley
$ 54.99
A fantastic debut vintage for newcomer Far Mountain.
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Lemon oil, white flowers, chalk and mint give the 2019 a brilliant upper register that almost comes as a surprise once the wine shows its superb depth and persist ence. This highly expressive, nuanced Chardonnay has a lot going on and plenty to offer.”
94 Points Wine Enthusiast: "High-toned and floral, this wine offers a generous mouthfeel of salty oak, mineral and wet stone. The elegant fruit profile combines pear, apple and Meyer lemon with ease, complementing the body weight with ample acidity."
94 Points James Suckling: "A polished, minerally chardonnay with sliced apple, lemon rind and some stone and flint. Laurel and other herbs, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a creamy texture and balance. Phenolic texture. Lively and stony. From mountain vineyards in Sonoma and Mount Veeder. Nice debut wine. Drink or hold."
Far Mountain is based on the belief that some of the greatest potential for wine in California – and anywhere in the world – exists in remote pockets in the mountains of the Sonoma Valley. The growers the winery works with have taken decades of risks in both planting their vineyards and the farming choices they make today. The winery’s work is to channel the drama of these surroundings into wines that dazzle with energy and stand out immediately. Wines that bring a sheer pleasure in their flavors and textures, as well as unfold slowly, with never ending detail and fascination. It is a specific vision, literally chiseled by the landscape.
Faust 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 58.00
New Cab from Quintessa
The Faust vineyard is in the new Coombsville AVA, Napa Valley's newest appellation in the eastern hills. Agustin Huneeus, who created Quintessa, sources grapes from his Rutherford estate as well for this lush Cab.
95 Points Brix26: "Sophisticated and supple. Yes, the second label from Quintessa has done it yet again. The Faust Cabernet is pure and straightforward. Black currant, cassis and blackberry fruit on the nose, with just a wisp of toast. Fresh minerals and finely integrated tannins make this Napa classic very drinkable now or easily cellarable for the next 5+ years or so. One of the best 2018 cabs we've found at this price."
94 Points James Suckling: "Very attractive aromas of blackcurrants, black olives and dark leather with some cedar. It’s full-bodied with firm, silky tannins and a refined, polished finish. Shows finesse and focus. Grows on the palate. Really delicious now, but will improve with age. Drink or hold.”
Behind every great wine stands a passionate vintner. Faust Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is the creation of Agustin Huneeus and it continues to satisfy his long held desire to produce a wine that embodies the most seductive characteristics of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Fel 2019 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley
$ 42.99
When Cliff Lede purchased the highly-regarded Breggo winery in Anderson Valley the name became Fel but the quality of the Pinot has stayed high. A great newcomer to try.
The FEL Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is packed with the hallmark aromatics of Anderson Valley Pinot – black cherry, wild mint and thyme, pomegranate, and cola. The mouth is rich with more dark flavors of black cherry, plum, licorice root, and fennel. True to its cool climate origins, the mouth feel is defined by the refreshing acidity that keeps the wine bright and elegant.
The grapes for the Fel 2019 Pinot Noir were sourced from some of the premier vineyards in the Anderson Valley, including the expressive Ferrington and Wendling vineyards, located at opposite ends of the valley, as well as our benchmark estate Savoy Vineyard. This wine is 100% Pinot Noir, made of a blend of select clones including Pommard, Mt. Eden, Martini and Dijon.
Fleur de Miraval ER2 Exclusivement Rosé Champagne
$ 349.99
Second release from the exclusive new rosé Champagne from Chateau Miraval owned by Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie and the legendary Pierre Peters in Champagne.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "A pale rosé Champagne lightly copper in color with an appealing nose of ripe fruit and spice. Lightly mouthwatering and satin-like on the palate a harmonious version that layers ripe notes of white cherry blood orange sorbet and nectarine with savory accents of salted almond oyster shell and saffron. Not a powerhouse but finely-detailed throughout and long on the well-cut finish. Drink now through 2028."
Champagne Fleur de Miraval is the first Champagne house dedicated exclusively to the production of Rosé. This project, five years in the making, is a collaboration between three families: iconic winemaking families Champagne Pierre Péters, in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Famille Perrin of Château de Beaucastel in the Rhône valley and Château de Miraval owners, the Jolie-Pitt family. Fleur de Miraval is singular in both its ethos — exclusively Rosé — and production. The house, located in Le Mesnil-Sur-Oger, focuses solely on the Côte des Blancs. This first edition is 75% Grand Cru Chardonnay, from Cramant, Avize, Oger and Le Mesnil, blended with 25% Pinot Noir from Vertus 1er Cru, made in the saignée method. The Chardonnay comes from a perpetual cuvée started in 2007, a system that winemaker Rodolphe Péters has perfected at his family Domaine.
Forman 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 115.00
96+ Points
One of the top-scoring Cabernets of the stellar 2016 vintage from Forman - limited.
96+ Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Forman's 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon offers notable, depth and structure. Today, the 2016 comes across as quite dark and brooding, but it was also racked about three weeks before this tasting, so that might partly explain the wine's showing today. Even so, the 2016 looks promising.. Best of all, Forman's Cabernet is probably the single greatest value in Napa Valley Cabernet."
Robert Parker: "Ric Forman is arguably Napa Valley’s first superstar winemaker. Although sometimes overlooked today, there is little question Forman has had a profound influence on a number of younger winemakers who still speak of him with great reverence. In 2012 Forman celebrated his 46th harvest. Today, Forman counts on the assistance of his son Toby, in running this small, family-owned jewel of an estate. As for the wines, they are superb, but, best of all, remain realistically priced for the consumer who wants to drink top-flight Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon without having to take out a second mortgage. Forman’s Cabernet is one of the classic masterpieces of Napa Valley, even if recent vintages come across as a bit riper than the norm. Still, it is impossible to go wrong with any of these wines."
Forman 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 114.99
96+ Points
One of the top-scoring Cabernets of the stellar 2016 vintage from Forman - limited.
96+ Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is silky and elegant, with lovely aromatic presence and impeccable balance. Sweet tobacco, cedar, dried flowers and mint all give this mid-weight Cabernet lovely complexity and nuance. The 2018 has shut down since I tasted it last year, but that is not surprising given the style here. Today, bright acids give the 2018 energy, tension and a good deal of precision. Those qualities should help the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon age well over the coming decades. Best of all, Forman's Cabernet is probably the single greatest value in Napa Valley Cabernet."
Robert Parker: "Ric Forman is arguably Napa Valley’s first superstar winemaker. Although sometimes overlooked today, there is little question Forman has had a profound influence on a number of younger winemakers who still speak of him with great reverence. In 2012 Forman celebrated his 46th harvest. Today, Forman counts on the assistance of his son Toby, in running this small, family-owned jewel of an estate. As for the wines, they are superb, but, best of all, remain realistically priced for the consumer who wants to drink top-flight Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon without having to take out a second mortgage. Forman’s Cabernet is one of the classic masterpieces of Napa Valley, even if recent vintages come across as a bit riper than the norm. Still, it is impossible to go wrong with any of these wines."
Fort Ross 2018 Fort Ross Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 44.99
94 Points - great new release
A fantastic new Chardonnay discovery from the true Sonoma Coast! If you like Flowers, Marcassin or Kistler you should add Fort Ross to that list of great Chardonnay producers. One of our favorite new Califorina wineries.
94 Points Robert Parker: "The Chardonnay Fort Ross Vineyard sports an intensely tropical nose of pineapple and passion fruit over suggestions of honeyed peaches, ginger and baking bread. Medium-bodied and elegantly fruited in the mouth, there are a lot of understated layers to excite the palate and it finishes long and savory/yeasty. Only 239 cases were produced...
...This small operation boasts Jeff Pisoni as the winemaker and is owned by Lester and Linda Schwartz. They began planting their 55-acre vineyard in 1994, with the first vintage in 2000. The wines are all bottled unfined and unfiltered, with the Chardonnay coming from Old Hyde and Wente field selections. The Pinot Noir is generally an assemblage of clones such as Calera, Pommard, Swan and Dijon 115 and 777. These are impressive Burgundian-style Pinot Noirs that merit serious attention. These are all impressive wines sold at extremely fair prices."
Brix26 Inside Scoop: Fort Ross Winery is nestled on a sunny coastal ridge, overlooking the Pacific Ocean a mile below. Their “True Sonoma Coast” vineyard is one of the closest, if not the closest, to the ocean in all of California. This is a great Chardonnay if you are looking for a style somwhere between the over-oaked and the steely style. It's all about the gorgeous fruit in this one, Highly recommended.
Four Cairn 2016 Syrah, Napa Valley
$ 37.99
94 points - limited
A fantastic new Syrah discovery that should not be missed - only 160 cases were produced of this tiny gem from Napa Valley.
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "The Syrah emerges from a gravelly creek bed at the foot of Spring Mountain. The vineyard was first planted in 1951 under the direction of the famous Andre Tchelistcheff. Only 100 cases were made. This is a sexy, gorgeous Syrah with loads of bacon fat, blackberry and cassis, a touch of minerality, plenty of glycerin, voluptuous texture and a long finish. This is a stunner and a great example of how much wine can buy at a realistic price if you check out the best Syrahs and Petite Sirahs in Northern California. This is already drinking beautifully, but should continue to do so for at least another decade.."
93 Points The Rhone Report: "A serious and very well done Syrah, the Four Cairn Syrah, 100% Syrah aged for 16 months in 45% new French oak, delivers a straight up fantastic array of cassis, smoked bacon, pepper, game, and violets on the nose. Both rich and yet fresh at the same time, this medium to full-bodied Syrah is perfectly balanced, possessing good concentration, a pure, seamless texture, and a classic, focused finish. I’m a fan and this has a northern Rhône like complexity paired with California fruit. It should continue to impress for 12-15 years."
Foxen 2017 Bien Nacido Block 8 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley
$ 64.99
95 Points
Beautiful New Pinot Noir release from Foxen - limited.
94 Points Jeb Dunuck: "The 2017 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Vineyard Block 8 saw the same upbringing but comes from a larger block. Its slightly lighter ruby/plum color gives way to a more savory, medium to full-bodied effort that offers classic notes of dried cherries, forest floor, and earthy, loamy soil notes. It too is beautifully balanced and layered, and it a terrific wine. Drink it anytime over the coming decade."
93+ Points Wine Enthusiast: "An explosion of aromas and flavors hits the palate in Foxen's 2016 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Block 8. Sweet rose petal, lavender and a host of red/purplish berry fruit opens up in the glass. Exuberant, racy and super-polished the 2016 is virtually impossible to resist."
Robert Parker: ..I continue to be blown away by this estate, which is run by Dick Dore and Bill Wathen, with Bill taking the helm of the winemaking and viticulture. This terrific estate deserves more attention in the market!
Freemark Abbey 2015 "Bosche Vineyard" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 159.99
97 points Parker - limited
New Reserve Cabernet release from Freemark Abbey. Limited.
97 Points Robert Parker: "Blended of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Bosche Vineyard has a deep garnet-purple color and is scented of earthy nuances of truffles, dusty soil and underbrush with a core of crème de cassis, black cherry compote and blueberry pie plus hints of camphor and scorched earth. Full, concentrated, rich and densely packed with loads of earth and black fruit layers, it has a firm, ripe, grainy frame and oodles of freshness, finishing long."
...Freemark Abbey remains one of the legendary Napa Valley wineries. In spite of what many feared when it was acquired by the Jackson family of Kendall-Jackson, things have only gotten stronger and more consistent under their leadership, with the continuation of chief winemaker Ted Edwards. Since I have been tasting these wines over the last few years, this has been a consistent producer of high quality wines in both red and white. They have added a couple of new cuvées to the portfolio, but are still well-known for their non-malolactic style of Chardonnay."
Frog's Leap 2017 Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 59.99
95 points
Frog's Leap Rutherford Cab comes entirely from estate-grown fruit. A blend of 92% Cab and 8% Cab Franc from the near-perfect 2017 vintage.
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon is such a gorgeous wine. In 2017, the Frog's Leap Cabernet has a bit more depth and richness, as it often does in warmer years. Cedar, tobacco, mint and sweet red cherry are all pushed forward in a succulent Cabernet with tons of character that still retains its super-classic, mid-weight feel. Time in the glass brings out the wine's aromatic nuance and silkiness. The Frog's Leap Cabernet remains an under the radar gem in today's Napa Valley."
This Cabernet Sauvignon has all the hallmarks of the legendary Cabernets of Rutherford: the deep, cassis-currant aromas, the classic notes of 'Rutherford Dust,' and the earthen flavors of cedar and black olive. The mouthfeel is plush across the palate with velvety tannins, yet balanced by bright acidity and firm structure that hints at promising years to come. Pair it with rack of lamb, N.Y. Strip, or just another glass! This wine is destined to give decades of drinking pleasure."
Gamba 2019 MCM Old Vines Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 49.99
New release of one of our favorite boutique California Zins! Only 650 cases produced, get this up-and-coming Cult Zin before its gone.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Coming all from the estate in the Russian River valley and all old vine Zinfandel, the Gamba Zinfandel Estate MCM is deeply hued with a beautiful bouquet of blueberries, wild strawberries, cedary spice, orange blossom, and exotic flowers. It’s beautifully balanced, has silky tannins, and just does everything right. It’s a rich, medium to full-bodied Zinfandel yet stays balanced and light on its feet. It’s a beauty.”"
Robert Parker: "These are pretty serious Zinfandels and certainly Gamba’s name is going to have to be included with some of the stars of Sonoma, such as Hartford Court, Carlisle, Bedrock and even the superstar Turley over in Napa."
If you love the BIG Zin style made famous by wineries such as Turley, Rosenblum and Ridge, you owe it to yourself to get on the Gamba Zinfandel bandwagon.
Gamba 2019 Old Vine Starr Road Ranch Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 44.99
New release of one of our favorite boutique California Zins! Only 650 cases produced, get this up-and-coming Cult Zin before its gone.
previous vintage 96 Points Robert Parker: "The Zinfandel Starr Road Ranch Old Vine comes from a vineyard planted in 1920. A glorious level of licorice, black raspberry, blackberry, and cassis soars from the glass of this wine that wants to suggest old-vine material from a Mediterranean vineyard – but this is Russian River. Full-bodied, opulent, unctuous and a total decadent, hedonistic and intellectual turn-on, this wine should continue to offer great drinking for at least a decade....These are pretty serious Zinfandels and certainly Gamba’s name is going to have to be included with some of the stars of Sonoma, such as Hartford Court, Carlisle, Bedrock and even the superstar Turley over in Napa."
If you love the BIG Zin style made famous by wineries such as Turley, Rosenblum and Ridge, you owe it to yourself to get on the Gamba Zinfandel bandwagon.
Gemstone 2018 'Alluvial Selection' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 149.99
Fantastic new release from superstar winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. Limited.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Alluvial Selection is terrific. A ripe, full-bodied, yet seamless profile as well as loads of classic Cabernet cassis and blue fruits, notes of spice and cedar notes, and silky tannins all define this beauty. Made in a pure, elegant, yet soft and fleshy style, it's already drinking nicely, and I see no need to delay gratification, although It certainly has 10-15 years of longevity ahead of it."
Green & Red 2015 Tip Top Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 33.99
This great under the radar Red Zinfandel from Green & Red in Napa Valley is a beauty. Highly recommended.
Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on ground originally in vineyards in the 1890's. The vineyards are a small percentage of the 200-acre property, which ranges in elevation from 900 to 2,000 feet.The Tip Top Vineyard is located at 1700 ft in elevation and faces northeast. The soils are red and rocky. Red raspberry/currant/blackberry/laurel lead to a lively finish laced with ground black pepper.
Brix26 Inside Scoop: Green & Red Zinfandel has been on the wine list at Berkeley's famous Chez Panisse Restaurant since the inaugural vintage.
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