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75 Wine Company "The Sum" 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon
$ 24.99
The Seventy Five Wine Co. "The Sum" Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a fantastic $20 discovery in California Cabernet from the Beckstoffers who are synonymous with managing some of Napa Valley's most famous vineyards. Don't miss!
This amazingly well endowed profoundly rich red wine must be smelled and tasted to be believed. The color is a rich, deep purple garnet and gives but a small hint as to what’s inside. The nose gives off soaring and wonderfully focused aromas of ripe stone fruit, vanilla, cherries, cedar cigar box, blackberries and cinnamon. In the mouth, there are layers upon layers of broad, sweet opulent fruit balanced by firm tannins, great acidity and oak. This wine truly showcases the potential of blending and is a must have.
Alban 2013 Reva Syrah, Edna Valley
$ 149.99
97 Points Parker - limited
Alban's rare Reva Syrah now available. Limited.
97 Points Robert Parker: "The 2013 Syrah Reva Alban Estate Vineyard is the largest production Syrah of the three vineyard designates. It's another beautiful looking 2013 that has tons of upfront appeal, full-bodied richness, incredible purity and a building, yet sweet, sweet tannin. It picks up more and more smoked meat characteristics with time in the glass, and like all of John's 2013s, will offer tons of pleasure in its youth, yet also evolve gracefully."
Self-professed Rhone Ranger and a true American pioneer for putting high quality Rhone varietal wines on the USA wine map, John Alban knocks it out of the park with his recent releases. Most of the big guns here come from the impressive, iron-fist-in-a-velvet-glove 2013 vintage. While the Alban Vineyards wines are never shrinking violets, for sure, what I love is the compelling savory accents that the 2013 reds possess, providing incredibly provocative restraint and depth that will keep fans wondering where their glass went and reaching for another. Enjoy!
Aloft 2013 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
$ 165.00
93 Points WS
Thomas Brown (Schrader, Outpost, etc) is one of the best winemakers today and Aloft is his newest project. This Howell Mountain vineyard reveals a different soil type as you walk row by row. Above the fog line, this property is carefully tended by vineyard manager Jim Barbour. In the glass, you'll taste silky, penetrating dark red and purple fruit that will show its potential for years to come. This new Cabernet comes from Napa Valley winemaking icon Peter Mondavi Sr. Only 450 cases made - hurry.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Big and rich, yet graceful and elegant, this features a subtle mix of cedar, tobacco, dark berry, mocha and espresso notes. Fine-grained tannins mark the long finish. Drink now through 2022. 450 cases made.
Wine Enthusiast: "Peter Mondavi Sr. and his two sons, Peter Jr. and Marc have crafted a big, tannic and ageworthy wine. It’s packed with massive blackberry fruit, with the hard tannins and minerality common of Howell Mountain. Don’t even think of opening this before 2016; it should develop well beyond that"
Anakota 2011 Helena Dakota Cabernet Sauvignon, Knight's Valley
$ 79.99
91+ Points
Limited new Cabernet from Anakota.
previous vintage 91+ Points Robert Parker: "The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Dakota Vineyard is slightly softer and rounder, and is civilized for a young Anakota Cabernet Sauvignon. Its deep ruby/purple hue is followed by sweet blackcurrant fruit intermixed with hints of wet rocks and gravel. Dense, ripe, and approachable, it should be consumed over the next decade or more...
...Jackson Family’s brilliant winemaker, famous for his Verité wines as well as an operation in St.-Emilion, is Bordelais, Pierre Seillan, who fashions the wines of Anakota from high-elevation vineyards in Knight’s Valley. Production of these 100% Cabernet Sauvignons ranges from 420 to 545 cases. They are big, backstrapping, formidably endowed wines meant for long-term cellaring."
Anakota is made by master winemaker Pierre Seillan, who is the genius behind the Bordeaux-inspired blends at Verité. His Verité wines have received seven perfect 100 point scores from Robert Parker, more than any other Sonoma winery. Anakota, focuses on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from single-vineyards in Sonoma's Knights Valley (home to cult producer Peter Michael).
Ancien 2015 Pinot Noir, Carneros
$ 36.99
A beautiful new Pinot Noir from Ancien, one of our favorite small wineries producing small lots of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from a range of the most exceptional sites in Napa and Sonoma.
The Ancien Pinot Noir from Carneros comes entirely from the Toyon Vineyard, located in the Napa side of the appellation. It sits on a cool, southern facing knoll with spectacular views to San Pablo Bay. Deep, juicy black cherry, blackberry, and dark chocolate flavors with great structure that overlays pretty aromatics of spice, violets, and cola and bright fruit. A mouth filling combination with layer upon layer of complexity. Highly Recommended.
Robert Parker: "Under owner/winermaker Ken Bernard's (he apprenticed at Domaine Carneros and Truchard before starting his own winery) capable hands, Ancien is producing complex, elegant wines that merit attention.
Antica 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 54.99
94 Points
San Francisco Chronicle Top 100 Wines of 2012! The new chapter from Tuscany's legendary Piero Antinori's Atlas Peak project has found its footing with a distinctive Antica Napa Cabernet.
94 Points Robert Parker: "A beautifully elegant, stylish Cabernet Sauvignon from the Antinori outpost in Napa Valley, has a dense ruby/purple color, a beautiful, sweet kiss of pure blackcurrant fruit, licorice and forest floor. Full-bodied, but with creamy texture, sweet, beautifully integrated acidity, tannin and alcohol, this is an impressively well-crafted wine that’s drinkable now, but should evolve nicely for another 15-20 years.."
Antinori 2016 "Tignanello" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
$ 119.99
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Tignanello! One of Italy's
97 Points Wine Spectator: "A big, lush style, this red delivers pure aromas and flavors of black currant, cherry, violet, flint, tobacco and baking spices. This is supple, yet backed by a firm, dense matrix of tannins, so all the components are there, but this
needs time to integrate. Lovely sweet, ripe finish. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2022 through 2040. From Italy.—B.S.."
97 Points Robert Parker: "Tasted from barrel, the 2016 Tignanello will be released next year in April. This celebrated red blend is of course mostly Sangiovese with about 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. If 2015 is an ideal vintage for Tuscan blended reds made with the great Bordeaux varieties, the 2016 vintage is better suited to Italian grapes such as Sangiovese. This classic vintage of Tignanello has a leg up, albeit slim, over the previous vintage precisely because the protagonist here is Sangiovese. This wine shows a high caliber of fresh primary fruit that is direct and intense. In the mouth, the wine is focused and sharp. Ultimately, the 2016 Tignanello is slightly more streamlined compared to the more fleshy 2015. This adds to the firm elegance you get here."
The Antinori family of Florence, one of the world's oldest and most distinguished wine producers, has lived in Tuscany since the 14th century and celebrated its 625th anniversary as wine makers in 2010.
Araujo Estate 2013 Eisele Vineyard Viognier, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
Rare white viognier from cult Napa producer Araujo. Limited.
Viognier was planted for blending with our Sauvignon Blanc, and is also used to co-ferment with our Syrah. An unreliable bearer, Viognier in some years provides us with enough crop to bottle on its own, producing a profoundly aromatic and seductive wine redolent of honey, apricots, orange blossoms and spice.
Arietta 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
A fantastic new top Napa Cabernet from Arietta and former Screaming Eagle winemaker Andy Erickson. Limited.
96+ Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is fabulous. Gorgeous, expressive aromatics meld into dark red stone fruits in a Cabernet of pure breed and class. These cool sites in Coombsville yield a Cabernet built on savory aromatics, perfume and depth. There is so much going on in the glass that words prove superficial in trying to describe just how beautiful the 2012 is. Majestic. That might do it...
...This is the finest and most complete set of wines I can remember tasting from Arietta. Proprietor Fritz Hatton and winemaker Andy Erickson seem to have reached a new level of quality with the 2012s and 2013s, both of which are brilliant. This is a fabulous showing from top to bottom."
Arietta 2016 Merlot, Napa Valley
$ 75.00
A fantastic top Napa Merlot from Arietta and former Screaming Eagle winemaker Andy Erickson. Limited.
93+ Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Arietta's 2016 Merlot Hudson Vineyards is just as impressive from bottle as it was from barrel. Powerful and savory, the Merlot packs a real punch. Black cherry, grilled herbs, graphite and menthol add character to this decidedly brooding wine. Far from an easygoing Merlot, the 2016 at Arietta is going to need a few years to come into its own, and will drink beautifully for many years beyond that"
93+ Robert Parker: "Deep purple-black in color, the 2016 Merlot has a captivating nose of crushed red and black plums, Black Forest cake and underbrush with hints of spice cake and dried mint. Full-bodied, plushly textured and packed with warm black fruits and baking spices in the mouth, it has a long peppery finish."
Atrea 2014 Old Soul Red, Mendocino
$ 24.99
A fantastic new Zinfandel blend! David Ramey is consulting winemaker for this new discovery reminds us of one our most popular wines, Orin Swift's The Prisoner. A fantastic value.
The Atrea Old Soul (a blend of 59% Zinfandel, 20% Petite Syrah, 14% Syrah and 7% Malbec) is sensational. This is a bistro wine on steroids. Deep ruby/plum-colored with sweet kirsch notes intermixed with licorice, pepper, and background toast, the wine is medium to full-bodied, fleshy, and displays vibrant, juicy, even succulent fruit, a nicely layered texture, and a crisp finish with light tannins. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Attractive wines are emerging from this Mendocino County winery, where none other than David Ramey is their consulting winemaker.
Aubert 2017 'Larry Hyde & Sons' Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros
$ 199.99
98 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "A barrel sample (aging in about 70% new oak), the 2017 Chardonnay Larry Hyde and Sons Vineyard opens with a gloriously gregarious, exotically scented nose of gingerbread and lemongrass with a core of pineapple, green guava and mango plus a hint of honeycomb. The palate is big, rich, super opulent and sexy with fantastic texture, concentration and seamless freshness, finishing long...
...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."
Aubert 2017 CIX Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
99 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "CIX stands for "109" as this block, planted in 2008 to Montrachet clones, was originally called "parcel 109" when they purchased it. The 2017 Chardonnay CIX Estate has an incredibly intense nose of lemon peel, green mango, fresh pears and powdered ginger with suggestions of baking bread, chopped cashews, lightly buttered popcorn and crème brûlée. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated and bold with a racy line carrying the citrus and savory layers to an incredibly long 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."
Aubert 2017 UV-SL Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "A barrel sample aging in 80% new barrels, the 2017 Chardonnay UV-SL is a little broody right now, slowly revealing notes of warm apricots, apple pie and pear tart with suggestions of crème caramel, honey toast, sassafras and lime blossoms with a hint of candied popcorn. The palate is full-bodied with a wicked backbone of freshness lifting the densely packed stone fruit and savory layers, finishing very long and yeasty...
...Mark Aubert is one of the contenders for California’s finest practitioner of Burgundian-styled, yet classic, California Chardonnays. His offerings are all made like grand cru Burgundies with full malolactic, the use of French oak and lees stirring, but the purity of fruit, the textural dimensions, and the stunning singularity of these Chardonnays can only be matched by a handful of other Chardonnay producers in the world. He’s that good. Aubert’s 2012s, which I have enjoyed multiple times out of bottle since I purchased most of them, merit the scores I gave them last year."
Babcock 2014 Chardonnay, Santa Rita Hills
$ 29.99
A great new Chardonnay discovery from the Santa Rita Hills that strikes a great balance between fruit and crisp acidity thats not overoaked! Get it before the new ratings come out.
80 % of the Chardonnay grapes for this wine come from Babcock's Estate Vineyard. You get the brisk acidity and minerality from this fruit and the varietal character and flesh from the Loma Verde fruit. With a nose of pineapple and lemon meringue, it’s hard to resist. There’s a pinch of clove and maybe a little tapioca thing going on in there as well. The mouth is beautifully rich without being over the top.
Barnett 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain, Napa Valley
$ 74.99
93 point boutique Cabernet
A fantastic Cabernet from Spring Mountain. Limited.
94 Points Robert Parker: "The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain is a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot. A beautiful example of Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon with its blue and black fruits (raspberries, blueberries interwoven with white flowers), this wine has an opaque purple color, a wonderful sweet kiss of delicate oak and forest floor. It is full-bodied and rich with supple tannins. It is a classic 2014 that is approachable, and frankly irresistible already, but promises to evolve gracefully for another 15 or more years."
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.
Barnett Vineyards 2014 Sangiacomo Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros
$ 33.00
A great small-produyction Napa Chardonnay from Barnett Vineyards on Spring Mountain.
Hal Barnett told us he has contracted the same parcels, same rows for years so the flavor profile and style would have an estate character. Using two Dijon clones and a Wente clone of Chardonnay, then going 22% through malolactic fermentation, winemaker David Tate has produced a delicious Chardonnay. The wine is made in a style that Chardonnay lovers could sip alone, but has the backbone and structure to succeed at the table. There are interesting layers of flavor to savor, with a floral element buried in there. Very attractive. Rich and layered, with a mix of tangerine, nectarine, spice and honeysuckle. Full-bodied, ending with a spicy, citrus- and cedar-laced finish.
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.
Beaulieu Vineyard 2015 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.95 $ 145.00
96 Points - new release
A legendary Napa Cabernet- new release!
The superb 2015 vintage gave the Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon its unctuous fruit character and dense structure. Hugely complex, the wine reveals a broad spectrum of briary blackberry, black cherry and currant notes, with nuances of violet and bittersweet chocolate. Muscular tannins support the plush, expansive palate, while impeccably balanced acidity adds vibrancy.
96 Points James Suckling: "The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve expresses all of the richness of the year while also retaining a terrific sense of energy and vertical lift for such a big wine. Floral notes add aromatic intensity to a core of red cherry jam, pomegranate, blood orange, mint and sweet spice notes. Racy and unctuous to the core, the 2015 has a lot to offer."
Beaux-Freres 2016 Beaux Freres Vineyard Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 89.99
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
95 Points Wine Spectator: "Remarkably and seamlessly complex, with a polished and refined core wrapped in a silky raspberry and blueberry flavors, accented by savory spice and orange zest hints. The long finish builds toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2025. From Oregon."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2016 Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Oregon MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 199.00
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. *This is a rare MAGNUM (1.5L) bottle*
previous vintage 95 Points Wine Spectator: "Remarkably and seamlessly complex, with a polished and refined core wrapped in a silky raspberry and blueberry flavors, accented by savory spice and orange zest hints. The long finish builds toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2025. From Oregon."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2016 The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir, Oregon
Sold Out
96 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
96 Points Wine Spectator: "A seductive wine that combines structure with harmony and a silky texture. Vivid black raspberry, rose petal and mocha espresso flavors build richness and dance on the long finish. Drink now."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2017 "Belles Soeurs Cuvee" Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 89.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Impeccably polished and structured, with gracefully expressive cherry and blueberry flavors, laced with black tea, spice and orange peel notes, taking on richness toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2027."
After a 12-year pause, this renaissance of our Belles Sœurs Cuvée label has the seamless elegance and finesse it always showcased, and is now solely compiled from our family’s three vineyards (Beaux Frères, Upper Terrace, and Sequitur). A worthy tribute to our little pocket of the Ribbon Ridge viticultural area, it is a bright, lively wine balancing red and blue fruits, genteel minerality, and beautifully high-spirited character at every turn; an altogether triumphant return for our long lost companion cuvée.
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2017 Beaux Freres Vineyard Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 89.99
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
95 Points Wine Spectator: "Combines structure with verve, offering richly expressive raspberry, violet and orange peel flavors that take on polish and complexity toward well-buffed tannins. Drink now through 2028."
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Deep red. High-pitched cherry, black raspberry and rose scents are complemented by hints of succulent herbs, exotic spices and musky flowers. Shows impressive energy and focus on the palate, offering juicy dark berry, bitter cherry and rose pastille flavors given a spicy edge by a hint of star anise. Closes smooth, appealingly sweet and very long, with fine-grained tannins adding framework and gentle grip."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2017 Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Oregon MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 199.00
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. *This is a rare MAGNUM (1.5L) bottle*
previous vintage 95 Points Wine Spectator: "Remarkably and seamlessly complex, with a polished and refined core wrapped in a silky raspberry and blueberry flavors, accented by savory spice and orange zest hints. The long finish builds toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2025. From Oregon."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2017 The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 109.99
96 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
96 Points Wine Spectator: "Seduces you immediately, with expressive violet and dark raspberry aromas that open to polished and brilliantly structured blueberry, savory anise and tea flavors that take on richness on a long finish. Drink now through 2026." (Aug 2019)
Senior editor Tim Fish says: “Beaux Frères has set the gold standard for Oregon Pinot Noir since Michael Etzel planted his first vines in 1988 in an old pig farm, in what is now the Ribbon Ridge AVA of Willamette Valley. The Upper Terrace vineyard is his most recent planting, which is situated just north of and at a higher elevation than the original estate vines. The 9-acre vineyard was planted in 2000 to Dijon clones of Pinot Noir only, and the 2017is a brilliant expression of the Beaux Frères style: dynamic, seductive and impeccably structured. It was fermented with native yeast and aged in French oak for a year."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
Beaux-Freres 2017 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 59.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres, one of Oregon's best wineries.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Seamlessly complex and silky, with vivid raspberry and blueberry flavors accented by black tea and savory spice notes that dance elegantly toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2024."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beckmen 2017 Cuvee Le Bec, Santa Barbara
$ 22.99
One of our favorite under $25 red wine discoveries of the year! A delicious, juicy red blend that should be your house red.
Robert Parker: "One of the finest values in the Central Coast is their Cuvee Le Bec, a blend of 44% Grenache, 28% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 8% Counoise, is one of the two great Cotes du Rhone look-alikes of the Central Coast. This is the type of wine that California can do so well, but rarely does. Part of the reason may be due to the difficulty of trying to convince consumers that a proprietary blend, available at a much lower price, can ultimately be better than some single varietal wines. The super Cuvee Le Bec is a sexy, delicious concoction of red and black cherries, black currants, pepper, spice box, and fruitcake. Medium to full-bodied and pure with supple tannins and a fleshy, lush personality, it will provide immense pleasure over the next 3-4 years...This winery, which has extensive holdings on one of Santa Ynez’s finest viticulture sites, Purisima Mountain, continues to build on an already impressive resume of wines. Kudos to Beckmen Vineyards for offering top-notch quality as well as plenty of enticing bargains."
Bedrock 2016 Evanghelho Vineyard Heritage Red, Contra Costa County
$ 35.00
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. A rising start to watch!
93 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Another standout, the 2016 Evangelho Heritage Wine is wonderfully fragrant and lifted. Medium in body, gracious and super-expressive, the Evangelho is pure class. All the elements simply come together in this super-expressive Zinfandel-based wine. The combination of sandy soils and unique field blend of approximately 60% Zinfandel, 35% Mataro and 5% mixed blacks results in a wine of compelling beauty and pedigree. Evangelho is now a true estate vineyard owned by Bedrock."
Robert Parker: "Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
The Bedrock 2016 Heritage Red from the Evanghelho Vineyard in Contra Costa County truly embodies Bedrock is all about. This wine is a "field blend" made from 22 different varietals from vines that were planted 123 years ago. Winemaker Morgan Peterson has gone through and identified every vine on the property by hand. The main component is Zinfandel, with the remaining 40% of the wine a blend of what has been planted in the vineyard for the past century. Peppery fruit is in the lead with this wine, followed by plums and cloves. It is a very dark and textured wine, chewy and dense. This wine has so much history in each glass. If you are a fan of the tradition and history of wine, this is something to be tried and shared with friends.
Bedrock 2016 Pagani Ranch Heritage Red, Sonoma Valley
$ 49.99
94 points
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. Limited.
95 Points Antonio Galloni: "Black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, menthol and leather infuse the 2016 Pagani Ranch Heritage Wine with its distinctly dark profile. Powerful and fleshy in the glass, with imposing tannins, the 2016 is going to be fabulous once it softens a bit in bottle. Readers should expect an unctuous, potent style. Even at this early stage, the 2016 Pagani is a total knock-out. Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, Carignane, Mataro, Mission, Lenoir and a host of other varieties make up approximately half of the blend in this Zinfandel-based red. I hope to be able to taste the 2016 with some bottle age, as it is a truly special wine."
Robert Parker: "...Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
Bedrock 2017 Evanghelho Vineyard Heritage Red, Contra Costa County
$ 36.00
94 points
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. A rising start to watch!
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Distinctive, showing briary complexity, with deep and expressive smoky anise, black cherry, black olive and green peppercorn flavors that build toward refined tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane and Mataro. Drink now through
2026."
Robert Parker: "Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
The Bedrock 2016 Heritage Red from the Evanghelho Vineyard in Contra Costa County truly embodies Bedrock is all about. This wine is a "field blend" made from 22 different varietals from vines that were planted 123 years ago. Winemaker Morgan Peterson has gone through and identified every vine on the property by hand. The main component is Zinfandel, with the remaining 40% of the wine a blend of what has been planted in the vineyard for the past century. Peppery fruit is in the lead with this wine, followed by plums and cloves. It is a very dark and textured wine, chewy and dense. This wine has so much history in each glass. If you are a fan of the tradition and history of wine, this is something to be tried and shared with friends.
Bedrock 2017 Lorenzo's Heritage Red, Dry Creek Valley
$ 46.00
93 points
Bedrock Wine Co. is a hot new boutique producer from Sonoma specializing in fantastic old vine zinfandels and blends. Limited.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Broad-shouldered and burly, with expressive black cherry and blueberry flavors, accented by licorice, stony mineral and cracked pepper notes, building toward refined but firm tannins. Drink now through 2026. 300 cases made."
Robert Parker: "...Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
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Behrens Family 2013 "Front Man" Merlot, Napa Valley
$ 74.99
95 Points
New release from Spring Mountain's Behrens Family Winery.
95 Points Robert Parker: "The 2013 Merlot Front Man, which includes 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, is relatively dense purple in color. Deep, rich and concentrated, this is one of my favorite wines of their portfolio. It is a terrific example of Merlot. Plenty of berry fruit, a full-bodied opulence, stunning purity and a deep, layered finish make for quite a splendid example of Merlot to drink over the next 15 or so years."
Beringer 2013 "Private Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 149.99
97 Points Parker - limited
Limited Reserve Cabernet from Beringer. One of the top-rated Cabs of the stellar 2013 vintage.
97 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "One of the great efforts of recent years, and not surprisingly so, is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve, a blend of 81% from Howell Mountain, 11% from St. Helena and the rest Calistoga and Mount Veeder. It is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot aged 20 months in 84% new French oak. At 15.2% natural alcohol, this is a big boy, but also classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with crème de cassis, graphite, licorice, and a touch of spicy oak. Winemaker Laurie Hook, who has since departed as winemaker, really hit a home run with this beauty. The wine could benefit from 7-10 years cellaring and probably last 30 to 40. When all is said and done, this is an instant classic, the wine full-bodied with oodles of crème de cassis, pen ink, graphite and baking spices. It is multi-dimensional, layered, and one of the all-time great Beringer Private Reserves – and there have been many....
...For its size and prominence, the St. Helena flagship Beringer winery does a remarkable job with the quality of its offerings. They have been fortunate to choose a brilliant line-up of chief winemakers, from Ed Sbragia, to Laurie Hook. The following group of wines, coming primarily from 2012 for the reds, and 2012 and 2013 for the whites, is one of the strongest I have tasted with them. That is reassuring when you consider the enormous size of the umbrella Treasury Estates that owns Beringer."
Beringer 2016 Luminus Chardonnay, Napa Valley
$ 34.99
93 Points Parker - New release
Inaugural release of a beautiful new Chardonnay from Beringer.
Robert Parker: "Beringer’s 2015 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."
Beringer 2016 Private Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley
$ 44.00
92 Points Parker - Limited
Beringer's top Chardonnay from the Gamble Ranch vineyard.
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."
92 Points Robert Parker : "A tank sample, the 2016 Chardonnay Private Reserve opens with peaches and cream notes and suggestions of cedar box, pink grapefruit and green mango with a touch of nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied with an appealingly oily texture, it delivers mouth-filling tropical fruit and oak flavors, finishing with great persistence."
Besserat de Bellefon "Cuvee des Moines" Brut Champagne
$ 47.99
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.
Besserat de Bellefon "Cuvee des Moines" Brut Rose Champagne
$ 57.00
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.
Best Boutique California Chardonnays
$ 469.00
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:
- Sbragia 2015 Gamble Vineyard Chardonnay Napa Valley ($48) Another great Chardonnay from the master Ed Sbragia! 94 pts
- Pahlmeyer 2016 Jayson Chardonnay ($49.99) Blockbuster second-label Chard from cult-producer Pahlmeyer
- Patz & Hall 2015 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($41.99) From the Dutton Ranch Vineyard made famous by Kistler!
- Hollywood & Vine 2015 Chardonnay Napa Valley "2480" ($45) 92 Points Wine Spectator - Great newcomer to the Napa scene
- Joseph Phelps 2016 Freestone Vineyards Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast ($49.99) - 95 points
- Paul Hobbs 2016 Chardonnay Russian River Valley ($54.99) 92 pts - fantastic new release
Price reflects 10% case discount already built in!
Best Boutique California Pinot Noirs Mixed Case
$ 399.00
Pinot Noir is HOT! We tasted through dozens of small-producers and hand-selected our fav201orites from different areas of California for this mixed case. A must for any Pinotphile! (10% case discount already built into price).
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- Sojourn Cellars 2016 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast ($39) 95 Points Pinot Report
- A.P. Vin 2017 Rosella's Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands ($49.99) small production gem
- Papapietro Perry 2016 Peter's Vineyard Russian River Pinot Noir ($54) - 94 points
- Patz & Hall 2016 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast ($42) Consistently one of our favorite Pinots
- Dutton-Goldfield 2017 Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir ($37) A beauty from the famed Dutton Ranch from a winery to watch
- Luli 2017 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands ($25) One of our favorite under-$30 pinot discoveries this year
Best Boutique California Syrahs Mixed Case
$ 439.00
We're huge fans of California Syrah. We tasted through dozens of small-producers and hand-selected our favorites for this mixed case. A must for any Syrah lover. 10% case discount already built into price.
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- Melville 2015 Syrah Santa Barbara County ($34.99) Fantastic - 93 points.
- Ojai 2014 Roll Ranch Syrah ($46) 95 pts - one of our favorite every year
- Kale 2013 Kick Ranch 'Home Run Cuvee' Sonoma ($48.99) Pahlmeyer winemaker
- Herman Story 2016 Nuts & Bolts Syrah Central Coast ($46.99) 94 pts
- Jaffurs 2016 Syrah Santa Barbara County ($29) Fantastic buy
- Four Cairn 2015 Syrah, Napa Valley ($39.99) Great boutique producer
Best Boutique California Zinfandels Mixed Case
$ 399.00
Zinfandel is California's unique varietal and its a great time to be a Zin lover. We tasted through dozens of small-producers and hand-selected our favorites for this mixed case. A must for any Zin-fantatic! 10% c ase discount already built into price.
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- Old Ghost 2015 Old Vine Zinfandel, Napa Valley ($37) A scary delicious zin with a rabid cult following.
- Gamba 2016 Starr Road Ranch Old Vines Zinfandel, Russian River Valley ($45) One of Californi'as best undiscovered Zin producers
- Valdez 2013 Boticelli Vineyard Zinfandel ($41) One of our favorite small Zin producers in California
- Bedrock 2016 Old Vines Zinfandel, Sonoma ($25) One of our favorite new producers and a best buy.
- Hendry 2015 Block 7 & 22 Zinfandel, Napa Valley ($35) 96 points
- Bedrock 2016 Schmiedt Rd. Zinfandel, Lodi ($37.99) Another stunning Zinfandel from Bedrock and California's heirloom vineyards.
Best Boutique European Reds - 12-Pack
$ 365.99
We've scoured the European continent in the search of great buys, tasting through dozens of small-producers and hand-selected our favorites for this mixed case. A great way to try our current red discioveries from France, Italy, Spain and Portugal! 10% discount already built into price.
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- Domaine Jerome Gradassi 2016 Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France ($49.99) An exclusive
- Pecchenino 2015 Dolcetto di Dogliani 'San Luigi' Italy ($24.99) A fantastic "big red" discovery from Italy
- St Cosme 2017 Cotes du Rhone "Les Deux Albions" France ($24.99) 92 Parker - from one of the Rhone's finest producers
- Quinta do Crasto 2014 Riserva Old Vines Red, Duoro (Portugal) ($41.99) 93 Points - From one of Portugal's top wineries
- Domaine de Bila Haut 2014 "Occultum Lapidem" Cotes du Roussillon-Villages, France ($34.00) 96 Points Parker - awesome Rhone red
- Terrabianca 2015 Campaccio Toscana Rosso, Italy - $29 - 93 point Super Tuscan Best Buy
Best Boutique Napa Cabernets - 12-Pack
$ 499.00
The last few vintages have been phenomenal for Napa Cabernets. We tasted through dozens of small-producers and hand-selected our favorites for this mixed case. A must for any Cabernet-lover! 10% discount already built into price.
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- White Rock 2016 Claret Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($49) Our favorite small-production Cabernet producer in the Stags Leap District.
- Stephanie 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($49.99) 96 Points Wine Enthusiast - a great small discovery!
- Seavey Vineyards 2014 "Caravina" Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ($60) New small production find- vineyard next to Silver Oak and Jordan and the wine is just as good!
- Terra Valentine 2014 Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($39.99) Great new discovery from Spring Mountain
- Round Pond 2017 "Kith & Kin" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($39.95) Fantastic new Cabernet
- Frank Family 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($49.99) Famous for their Chardonnay, their new Cabernet one of the sleepers of the vintage.
Binigrau 2015 Obac Vi de la Tierra Red Mallorca, Spain
$ 29.99
On a recent trip to the island of Mallorca in Spain, we discovered this great regal red blend and are excited to bring it to the US - California Cabernet fans will love it.
An elegant, dark-ruby colored wine with a subtle shade of garnet. Aromas of spice, nuts, fennel and licorice, combined with a well-integrated underlying taste of mature fruit and wood. 65% Manto Negro, 15% Callet, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah, 5% Merlot
Hurry - we are one of the few US retailers to have this gem for our US customers.
Binigrau 2016 Nounat White Blend Mallorca, Spain
$ 28.00
We fell in love with this white on a recent trip to the island of Mallorca and have brought it back to share with our customers - get the new vintage before the ratings come out.
previous vintage 95 points Robert Parker: "Binigrau’s Nounat is priced slightly above the cut-off mark for this (Best Buys) report, but there are several things about it that are absolutely remarkable, so I’m including it. First of all, it is the greatest wine I have ever tasted from the beautiful Mediterranean island of Mallorca. Secondly, it is a curious blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Prensal (an indigenous grape of the island) that is aged in a combination of tank, concrete eggs and Burgundy barrels. Absolutely spectacular, I tasted this beauty alongside some of the finest dry whites I had in my cellar, and it easily held its own, if not eclipsed those wines. Abundant notes of tropical fruits, crushed wet rocks, spring flowers, buttery tropical fruits and citrus are all present in this stunner as are a majestic texture and a long, dry, rich finish. This amazing Spanish white wine must be tasted to be believed. It is a credit to the brilliance of Eric Solomon. It should be consumed over the next 2-3 years."
This is a great alternative to Chardonnay but still full-bodied that California wine lovers will appreciate. Bright yellow-gold. Pungent aromas of orange peel, honey and smoky minerals, with a powerful floral overtone. Lush and glyceral, with honeyed orchard and pit fruit flavors brightened by juicy acidity. Shows impressive depth as well as vivacity, finishing with excellent cling, a touch of honey and strong, stony persistence. This exotic wine reminds us of a top-notch dry pinot gris from Alsace.
Black Slate 2016 Gratallops Red, Priorat
$ 23.00
One of the best buys from Spain we've discovered. Limited.
90+ points Robert Parker: "The Gratallops wine from the Black Slate series is produced for American importer European Cellars. The 2016 Black Slate Gratallops is a blend of 75% Cariñena, 19% Garnacha and 6% Syrah that fermented with natural yeasts and with only 20% of the volume put in new oak barrels for 12 months. This feels more elegant than the other reds here, representative of the house style, with character and appeal for the general public like the 1990s Priorats; there is also something earthy and a little volatile with hints of wet slate."
Based in the village of Gratallops, Celler Cecilio blends Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cariñena, and Syrah, primarily from old vines planted to the region's famed llicorella (schist) soils. August Vicent is not only the proprietor Celler Cecilio, the oldest registered estate in Priorat (established in 1942), but he happens to be a neighbor of Daphne Glorian and Eric Solomon in the small village of Gratallops. He makes characterful, lush and exotically-spiced wines from his vineyards in the village and has been persuaded to sell us some for our Black Slate Gratallops. It is a blend of Garnatxa Negra, Carinyena, and Syrah from vines ranging in age from 20 to 65+ years old. Fermented entirely with indigenous yeasts, it is aged in a combination of concrete and French oak barrels
Black Slate 2016 La Vilella Alta, Priorat
$ 23.00
93 points - best buy
One of the best buys from Spain we've discovered. Limited.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "This generous red features a round, soft texture that carries ripe black fruit flavors, laced with licorice, toast and loamy earth notes. Offers well-integrated tannins and gentle acidity. Pretty floral and cinnamon details emergeon the finish. Drink now through 2028."
previous vintage 94 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Part of the Black Slate label that focused on the different villages of Priorat, the Black Slate La Vilella Alta is a blend of 39% Cariñena, 23% Garnacha, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Syrah and Merlot that spent 14 months in 30% new French oak, with a good portion of the blend brought up all in concrete. Incredible notes of blackcurrants, wood smoke, iris flowers, chocolate, and obvious minerality all emerge from this full-bodied, beautifully pure, elegant red that knocks it out of the park on the value front. You just don’t find this level of quality at this price point anywhere in the wine world today...readers should not miss this sensational wine.."
The inspiration for the Black Slate Project is a Burgundian concept of village nomenclature, applied to the Priorat. One region, nine historic villages, each with its distinct character, but all unmistakably Priorat. Sun-scorched vines cling to breathtakingly steep hillsides with their roots deeply plunged in the llicorella soils of this pristine, ancient region.
Bodegas Mas Alta is a joint project with renowned Rhone negociant and winemaker, Michel Tardieu, and noted French enologist, Philippe Cambie. It is located in the middle of D.O.C. Priorat, based in the village of Vilella Alta. The estate vineyards are high density plantings at approximately 1050 feet above sea level, in front of Serra del Montsant, a mountain range that reaches 3300 feet. Very steep and abrupt, the altitude, inclination, and slopes make a decisive influence on grape's maturity. The vineyards of La Viella Alta are situated on steep slopes of slates alongside of what once was the river of Escaladei. The heat of south-facing vineyards combing with the cooler north-facing parcels to create a well-balanced wine with ripe fruit and softness.
Blackbird Vineyards 2014 "Arise" Proprietary Red, Napa Valley
$ 49.99
Blackbird Vineyards is one of Napa's hottest boutique producers. The "Arise" Proprietary Red is a blend of 42% Merlot 38% Cabernet Sauvignon 20% Cabernet Franc, fashioned after the famous Pomerol wines of Bordeaux. Get it while its still available!
94 Points "Editors' Choice" Wine Enthusiast: "A glorious wine. Based on Merlot, with nearly equal parts of the two Cabernets, it's softly smooth and delicious right now. Totally bone dry, yet rich and sweet in cherries, berries, chocolate and cedar, it satisfies on every level..." - Best of Year Buying Guide
The Blackbird Arise welcomes you with complex aromatics of cherry, plum, bacon, tobacco, and subtle mint. Aged in French Oak barrels for 19 months, the well-integrated palate presents enticing flavors of cedar, earth, and toffee within multiple layers of rich, black fruits. Elegantly balanced with supple tannins, the mouthfeel is velvety and leads to a fine cocoa finish. Drinking well upon release, Arise will age beautifully with time in the cellar. Winemaker Sarah Gott fashions this delicious red from Napa Valley's Oak Knoll District. Dark ruby red in color, this blend of predominately Merlot offers aromas of ripe plum, mocha, and violets that carry over beautifully onto the palate. Concentrated black fruit flavors give way to dense, yet integrated tannins. The wine's finish reveals a noticeable acidity and depth to allow for longevity.
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