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Brix26
75 Wine Co. 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, California
$ 24.99
The Seventy Five Wine Company Cabernet Sauvignon is a fantastic $20 discovery in California Cabernet from the Beckstoffers who are synonmous with managing some of Napa Valley's most famous vineyards - this is their first wine from the up-and-coming Lake County area north of Napa. Don't miss!
The 75 Wine Co. Cabernet is a blend of vineyards from Lake and Napa Counties. We find these diverse, high quality vineyards to compliment one another perfectly. The high altitude rocky vineyard sites in Lake County deliver angularity, complexity and austerity while the Napa Valley fruit provides deep concentration and focus. This wine is dense and tremendously focused, with a wonderful nose and palate of cedar, blueberry, saddle leather and white pepper. The finish showcases a perfect balance of acid, tannin and sweet toasted oak. Meticulous, detail oriented winemaking and complete attention to detail has produced a wine of tremendous presence and complexity that must be tasted to be believed.
Brix26 Inside Scoop: Since the inaugural vintage a few years ao, the Seventy Five Wine Co. Cabernet Sauvignon continues to be our most highly recommended $20 Cabernet on the site.
75 Wine Company "The Sum" 2017 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 2016 Patrina Syrah
$ 49.99
Brand new Syrah release from John Alban - limited.
95+ Points Robert Parker: "The 2016 Syrah Patrina, made of 100% Syrah, has a deep ruby-purple color. The nose opens slowly—and it's worth the wait—opening to very pure aromas of wild blackberries, crushed black cherries, mint leaves, brewed coffee, cracked pepper and violets, giving up more and more nuances with time in the glass. The palate is full-bodied and intense but equally fresh and lifted, finishing very long. This is still youthfully wound, and I expect it may get even better with a few years in bottle."
Brix26 Inside Scoop: Intermittently, Alban Vineyards produced a 'Central Coast Syrah' which was never predictable in either when it was made or its quantity but was always tremendously popular. With each sporadic release, it became undeniable that lots of people wanted this wine. Likewise, it became painfully clear to Alban that without control of the vineyards from which this wine would derive, nothing about it would ever be reliable. In 2005, Alban discontinued purchasing grapes for the Central Coast Syrah to develop his own vineyards and the 'Patrina' Syrah was born.
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 2015 Helena Montana Cabernet Sauvignon, Knight's Valley
$ 119.99
96 Points
Limited new Cabernet from Anakota.
96 Points Robert Parker: "Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard gives up notes of coffee grounds, chocolate box and warm blueberries with hints of black currant cordial and blackberry pie, plus touches of tar and black soil. Medium-bodied and totally laden with tightly packed fruit layers and great tension, it has a very firm frame of grainy tannins and epic length. 847 cases produced."
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).
Antica 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 69.99
94 Points
This California Cabernet is made by one of the greatest Tuscan wineries: Antinori. Known for their Super Tuscans, this California estate wine lives up to their greatly deserved reputation. It is full bodied and rich with darker fruits and an earthy but smooth background. The finish is long and expressive.
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.
95 Points James Suckling: "A full and juicy red with berry and mushroom character, round and juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows focus and tension. Drink after 2020. 100% Estate-Grown – 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc."
94 Points Wine Enthusiast: "This wine shows its mountain provenance in meaty, grippy and gritty tannins and a broad expansive weight on the palate. But beneath its brawn is beauty and a rounded lushness of delicious drinkability, a mix of brambly blackberry, cherry, cassis and crushed rock. Let it sit in the glass over time or consider cellaring."
Antinori 2016 "Solaia" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
Sold Out
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Solaia from Antinori! One of Italy's finest.
100 Points Robert Parker: "I fussed over scoring this wine more than I'd like to admit-tasting through three samples under different conditions at various intervals and testing my impressions blind against wines in its peer group. Most importantly, I tasted this 2016 vintage against the 2015 vintage over and over again. I confess to a few nights of restless sleep as a result. Ultimately, my decision to award 100 points to the 2016 Solaia came on impulse and with the most natural sense of purpose. I had also given the 2015 vintage a perfect score, and intellectually, it seemed impossible not to pick a favorite among these two stunning expressions. I will also state, outright, that the wines are very different, principally because the 2015 vintage shows more overall opulence and sweetness that extends to the pronounced textural richness of the mouthfeel. The 2016 vintage, on the other hand, is more chiseled and sharp with mineral shadings of campfire ash and graphite at the rim of its dark fruit. The mouthfeel is more streamlined and tight at its core, suggesting that the wine will unfold and soften beautifully with time. I feel like 2015 is the Dolce & Gabbana of the situation and the 2016 is the Armani Privé. The personalities of the two wines are distinct, yet my admiration for each is identical."
99 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Like Tignanello, the 2016 Solaia is a wine of extraordinary nuance and finesse. Super-ripe blackberry, plum jam, espresso, menthol, licorice and sweet spice build as the sublime 2016 shows off its personality and breeding. The 2016 somehow manages to be incredibly deep and also light on its feet. Sweet floral and spice notes add the closing shades of nuance to an exotic, beguilingly beautiful Solaia endowed with an eternal finish and mind-blowing beauty. The 2016 is an epic Solaia. That’s all there is to it."
98 Points Wine Spectator: "This red leads off with a slight oaky edge, featuring vanilla and resin accents that meld with the black cherry and blackberry fruit flavors on the palate. This is all about purity and finesse, featuring a vibrant structure that fits harmoniously with the flavors. Cedar, iron, tobacco and fruit elements converge on the finish, which is very long, fresh and satisfying. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc."
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.
Antinori 2017 "Tignanello" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
$ 139.99
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Tignanello! One of Italy's top wines. Limited.
98 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2016 Tignanello is flat out stunning. Dark, dense and resonant, the 2016 is a wonderfully complete wine that will provide readers with decades of pure drinking pleasure. The 2016 is especially dark and brooding, and yet the tannins are incredibly polished to the point of being perceptible. In the glass, the 2016 is complete and regal, perhaps because of the super-classic blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. The pedigree of the vintage comes through in the wine's extraordinary balance and total sense of finesse. I don't think there is another wine anywhere in the world made entirely from estate fruit that can match Tignanello for quality, consistency and value within its peer group of top-flight reds."
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 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 2017 Old Soul Red, Mendocino
$ 22.99
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 (Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Malbec, Syrah) 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 UV Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma County
$ 139.99
Limited new Pinot release from one of California's top producers Aubert.
95 Points Robert Parker: "Medium to deep ruby-purple colored, the 2017 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard gives gorgeous black cherries, pomegranate, fresh blackberries and wild blueberries scents with suggestions of licorice, potpourri, chocolate tart and clove with a touch of dried Provence herbs. The palate is full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and oodles of freshness supporting the flamboyant black and blue fruits, finishing with an exciting herbal lift."
Aubert 2018 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, because this was originally called “Parcel 109” when Aubert bought the vineyard. Planted in 2008 to Montrachet clone, the 2018 Chardonnay CIX Estate slips sensuously from the glass with beguiling scents of apple blossoms, honeysuckle and orange peel over a core of ripe Bosc pears, coriander seed, white pepper and shaved almonds plus a touch of talc. Full-bodied, rich and seductive, it has seamless freshness and the most beautifully perfumed personality, finishing long and fragrant....
...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 2018 Eastside Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Russian River Valley
$ 199.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99+ Points Robert Parker: "Eastside is a warmer site in Russian River that is composed of very rocky, gravelly soils and planted to Montrachet clone. It is usually harvested second, after Sugar Shack. Wow—the 2018 Chardonnay Eastside has a truly compelling hazelnut/praline character with a core of spice cake, apple pie, peach preserves and clotted cream plus suggestions of cloves, allspice and brioche. Full-bodied, the palate is a powerhouse of savory layers, lifted by fantastic freshness and allowing the beautifully pristine apple and peach flavors to kick in on the long, 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 2018 Sugar Shack Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "Produced from Montrachet Clone vines (what Mark Aubert calls “the citrus circus clone") grown in Rutherford AVA, the 2018 Chardonnay Sugar Shack comes bounding out of the glass with a sit-up-and-beg nose of candied lemon peel, green mango, guava and lime leaves plus hints of honeysuckle, toasted almonds, crushed stones and nutmeg. Full-bodied, the palate is electric with concentrated citrus and tropical fruits and the most amazing tension, featuring a satiny texture and very long, pristine 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 2018 UV-SL Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "The 2018 Chardonnay UV-SL comes across as a little shy compared to the Napa Chardonnays, slowly unfurling to reveal oyster shells, peach blossoms, honeysuckle and brine notes over a core of lemon marmalade, crème brûlée and pink grapefruit plus a touch of key lime pie. Full-bodied, the palate is like a tightly coiled spring with loads of tension between the racy acid and all the taut fruit, finishing very long and very minerally. This should be very long-lived!"...
...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 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain, Napa Valley
$ 79.99
93 point boutique Cabernet
A fantastic Cabernet from Spring Mountain. Limited.
94 Points Robert Parker: "The 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 2016 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 129.99 $ 145.00
98 Points - new release
A legendary Napa Cabernet- new release!
The superb 2016 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.
98 Points James Suckling: "A complex red with blackcurrants, forest floor and mint. Eucalyptus, too. Love the aromas. Full body with ripe tannins that roll on the palate. Very harmonious and precise. Needs four to five years to come together, but already a joy to taste."
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 Beaux-Freres Vineayrd 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 2018 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 59.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres, one of Oregon's best wineries.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Polished, rich and impressively structured, with rose petal and raspberry notes that build toward a sleekly dynamic finish and refined tannins. Drink now through 2029."
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 2018 Bedrock Vineyard Heritage Red, Sonoma Valley
$ 49.95
94 Points
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. Limited.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Heady, yet refined and polished, with boldly expressive black raspberry, orange peel and spice box flavors. This is full of additional nuances and builds toward big but fine-grained tannins. Zinfandel, Carignan and Mataro. Drink now through 2030."
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "One the brawnier wines in this range, the 2018 The Bedrock Heritage Wine is dense and powerful, as wines from this Sonoma Valley site so often are. Black cherry, chocolate, licorice, spice, bay leaf and earthy tones add complexity as well as nuance. This virile, potent red is going to need a number of years to be at its very best, but it is already super-impressive. The field blend is approximately 75% Zinfandel, 20% Carignan and 5% Mataro, but includes a total of 27 varieties."
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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Bedrock 2018 Evanghelho Vineyard Heritage Red, Contra Costa County
$ 36.00
94 points
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. A rising start to watch!
92 Points Wine Spectator: "Generous, with plump fruit, buoyed by a refined core of tannins and fresh acidity. Accents of blackberry, smoky anise and underbrush lead to broad-shouldered tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane and Mataro. Drink now through 2029. 700 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."
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.
Behrens Family 2016 The Passeneger Petite Sirah, Napa Valley
$ 54.99
New release from Spring Mountain's Behrens Family Winery. Limited.
The Passenger is a 93% Petite Sirah from three small, up-valley vineyards. Brooding and dark at the core, with aromas of sandalwood, forest floor and blackberry, the texture is dense yet juicy and mouth filling. The wine finishes with notes of candied citrus peel, mint and Asian spice. There is a lot packed in here - we suggest just going along for the ride.
Beringer 2015 "Private Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 149.99
96 Points Parker - limited
Limited Reserve Cabernet from Beringer. One of the top-rated Cabs of the stellar 2015 vintage.
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "I was able to taste to two vintages of the Private Reserve, and the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve comes from a vintage loved by the estate. The final blend is the normal 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot brought up in 85% new French oak. This full-bodied, ripe, voluptuous beauty shows the vintage to a T, offering a blast of sweet blackcurrants, licorice, ground herbs, and graphite aromas and flavors. Blockbuster styled, with full body and an expansive, sexy texture, it has the depth and density to continue drinking brilliantly for 20+ years."
95+ points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Containing the tiniest splashes of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of plum preserves, baked blackberries and cassis with hints of menthol, sandalwood and chocolate box. Full-bodied with soft, seductive tannins and a lively backbone supporting the generous, ripe, opulent fruit, it has a decadent spiciness and great length....
...As I have written in the past, the Beringer Private Reserve program incorporates many of the single vineyards that they own and also bottle separately in lots from 250 up to nearly 1,000 cases. These wines are generally only available at the winery or through their membership club. Various parts of these single vineyards are all put through taste trials, and the result, when there’s a unanimity of opinion, is the great Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Beringer, one of the most successful Cabernets of Napa Valley
Beringer 2017 Private Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley
$ 36.99
93+ Points Parker - Limited
Beringer's top Chardonnay from the Gamble Ranch vineyard. Limited.
96 Points James Suckling: "Freshly squeezed nectarines, dried jasmine, orange blossom, vanilla, peach flan, dried mangoes, jack fruit and plenty of bread dough. Full body, a very round and oily mouthfeel, expansive and commanding acidity and a long finish. Drink now or hold."
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "A different animal, the 2017 Chardonnay Private Reserve is richer and more opulent, with Montrachet-like caramelized lemon, tropical fruits, and brioche aromas and flavors. Nevertheless, it's still more elegant and vibrant than past vintages, with medium body, a layered texture, and good acidity. I love its balance and it can be drunk any time over the coming 2-4 years, although there's no need to delay gratification."
93+ Points Robert Parker : "The 2017 Chardonnay Private Reserve aged for ten months in 100% new French oak. It opens with beautiful crème brûlée and candied ginger notes over a core of pineapple and green mango with a waft of brioche. Medium-bodied, satiny and with fantastic freshness, it delivers loads of tropical layers and great length."
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.
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
$ 64.99
The Champagnes of Besserat de Bellefon are served at restaurant Alain Ducasse in Paris and New York and Charlie Trotter's in Chicago. They are found in the world's finest restaurants and have a cult reputation in France. While they are hard to find in the U.S., we're proud to introduce this exclusive Champagne to our customers.
The Besserat de Bellefon Cuvee des Moines is a rose (slightly pink) champagne which is considered among champagne connoisseurs to be the finest grade champagne.
Best Boutique California Chardonnays
$ 475.00
Can't decide which Chardonnays to try? We've done the work for you by selecting a mixed case (12 bottles) of our favorite current Chardonnays from top California producers.
Each 12-pack includes 2 bottles each of the following wines:
- Peirson-Meyer 2016 "Sophia's" Chardonnay, Russian River Valley ($45) From winemaker Luc Morlet
- Pahlmeyer 2017 'Jayson' Chardonnay ($49.99) Blockbuster second-label Chard from cult-producer Pahlmeyer
- Patz & Hall 2016 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($41.99) From the Dutton Ranch Vineyard made famous by Kistler!
- Ramey 2017 "Fort Ross-Seaview" Chardonnay ($40) 96 Points Wine Enthusiast "Editor's Choice"
- Joseph Phelps 2017 Freestone Vineyards Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast ($49.99) - 95 points
- Paul Hobbs 2017 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 2018 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast ($40) 95 Points Pinot Report
- Three Sticks 2018 Price Family Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast ($55) 97 pts
- Papapietro Perry 2016 Leras 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 2018 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 Estate Syrah Sta Rita Hills ($34.99) Fantastic - 93 points.
- Ojai 2014 Roll Ranch Syrah ($46) 95 pts - one of our favorite every year
- Kale 2014 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
$ 429.00
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% case 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 2017 Old Vines Zinfandel, Russian River Valley ($45) One of California's best undiscovered Zin producers
- Macauley2016 Old Vines Zinfandel Napa Valley ($46) One of our favorite small Zin producers in California
- Frank Family 2017 Zinfandel, Napa Valley ($36) 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
$ 359.99
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 2017 Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France ($49.99) An exclusive
- Descendientes de J. Palacios 2017 'Petalos' de Bierzo, Spain ($19.99) A beautiful red from Spain
- 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 2016 Riserva Old Vines Red, Duoro (Portugal) ($41.99) 93 Points - From one of Portugal's top wineries
- Arbalest 2015 Red Bordeaux, France - ($19.99) - a smoking buy
- Black Slate 2016 Gratallops Red, Spain - ($23) - 93 point Spanish Best Buy
Best Boutique Napa Cabernets - 12-Pack
$ 489.00
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, 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!
- Caterwaul 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ($50) New small production find- vineyard next to Silver Oak and Jordan and the wine is just as good!
- Terra Valentine 2015 Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($39.99) Great new discovery from Spring Mountain
- Round Pond 2018 "Kith & Kin" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($39.95) Fantastic new Cabernet
- Frank Family 2016 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
$ 32.99
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.
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 2017 La Vilella Alta, Priorat
$ 21.99
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."
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 2016 "Arise" Proprietary Red, Napa Valley
$ 39.99
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!
92 Points Robert Parker: "The 2016 Arise Proprietary Red is a blend of 55% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot. It has a deep garnet-purple color and opens with fragrant black cherries, black raspberries and warm plums scents with hints of underbrush, dried herbs, raspberry leaves and spice box. Medium-bodied and elegantly styled in the mouth, the palate has great vivacity with a grainy texture and long, lively finish."
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.
Blankiet 2008 Paradise Hills Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 199.00
Exclusive new release from cult cab producer Blankiet. Limited
95+ Points Robert Parker: "Composed of 82.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest tiny dollops of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2008 Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red has added considerable richness, weight, texture, nuance and complexity over the last year. Aromas of chocolate, espresso, blackberries, black currants and charcoal/burning embers leads to a full-bodied, expressive, rich wine that is nearly as compelling as the 2007. Dense, full-bodied and already drinkable, it should evolve for 20+ years...Claude and Katherine Blankiet continue to make subtle changes in their winemaking at Blankiet Estate. Michel Rolland has been replaced by Denis Malbec, but superstar viticulturist David Abreu still manages this gorgeous hillside vineyard in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, just behind the large estate of Dominus. The 2008s have improved dramatically since last year, which may be the result of the culling out of certain lots for their second wine called Prince of Hearts."
Bonaccorsi 2013 Cargasacchi Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
$ 49.99
Brand new release from one of Santa Barbara's finest small producers - highly recommended but limited.
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2013 Pinot Noir Cargasacchi Vineyard is another delicious, vibrant Pinot Noir from Jeannie Bonnaccorsi. Sweet red plum, mint, lavender, game and sage open up nicely. Intense but also translucent in style, the 2013 oozes with personality. This is another terrific wine."
Booker 2015 'The Ripper', Paso Robles
$ 84.99
97 pts - rare
New release from Paso cult producer Booker Vineyards. As always, limited.
97 Points Robert Parker: "Another killer barrel sample from this estate is the 2015 The Ripper (Grenache), which is 100% Grenache that's aging in a mix of concrete and older demi-muids. Loaded with notions of kirsch, blackberries, crushed pepper and bouquet garni, it has full-bodied richness, beautiful mid-palate density and plenty of structure. It will need short term cellaring, but is a sensational Grenache from Paso Robles!...
As I've commented in the past, the wines from Eric Jensen at Booker are some of the most impressive releases coming out of California. While in the past, they relied on pure fruit and texture to impress, today they possess layered, elegant and complex characters paired with serious depth, richness and structure. While 2013 -2015 are all great vintages at this estate, the 2014s have more noticeable tannic grip and really deserve 2-3 years or more of cellaring."
Booker 2017 "Oublie" Red, Paso Robles
$ 79.99
97 pts - rare release
New release from Paso cult producer Booker Vineyards. As always, limited.
97 Points Jed Dunnuck: "I loved the 2017 Oublie. This blend of 53% Grenache, 22% Mourvèdre, 21% Syrah and the rest a mix of varieties offers a layered, silky, seamless profile. Giving up more black and blue fruits, peppery herbs, and floral overtones, it has silky tannins, medium to full body, and a great finish. It’s another beautiful wine...Eric Jensen’s Booker Vineyards continues to make a ripe, sexy, pedal-to-the-metal syle of wine and these latest 2017s don’t disappoint."
previous vintage 95 Points Wine Spectator: "Expressive and impressively structured, with savory blackberry aromas and accents of rosemary, thyme and crushed stone, opening to complex, densely layered flavors of currant, pepper and espresso. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Counoise. Best from 2018 through 2028...54% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 17% Counoise. Arguably the biggest and most concentrated Oublie ever, this wine reminds me one a Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes from Marcoux or Janasse. Lots of ripe red fruit characteristics but a gorgeously proportioned mid-palate that you don't usually get from Grenache and Mourvèdre. Feel free to crack this wine anytime."
Booker 2017 'Vertigo' Red, Paso Robles
$ 79.99
99 pts - rare
New release from Paso cult producer Booker Vineyards. As always, limited.
Vertigo aims to be a traditional Rhone blend, a “G-S-M”. We ferment a portion of this wine whole cluster and use stem inclusion to add a bit to its character in terms of tannin and spice. We named this wine ‘Vertigo’ in jest for one of Booker's steepest hillsides that grows Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre.
99 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "I loved the 2017 Vertigo from barrel, and it didn’t disappoint from bottle. A blend of 63% Syrah, 30% Mourvèdre, and the rest Grenache and Petite Sirah, brought up in 65% new French oak, this full-bodied, massively endowed 2017 has complex notes of blue fruits, blood orange, violets, and exotic spices. As with all Eric’s 2017s, it’s rich and concentrated yet has remarkable purity and elegance at the same time. It’s one of the finest GSM blends out there and will shine for at least 8-10 years."
Robert Parker: "...As I've commented in the past, the wines from Eric Jensen at Booker are some of the most impressive releases coming out of California. While in the past, they relied on pure fruit and texture to impress, today they possess layered, elegant and complex characters paired with serious depth, richness and structure. While 2013 -2015 are all great vintages at this estate, the 2014s have more noticeable tannic grip and really deserve 2-3 years or more of cellaring."
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