1591646353351 2072 7 Argyle, Brut, Willamette Valley 2015 80.00 14 0 Argyle was founded in the Willamette Valley in 1987, and has come to be recognized as one of the premier producers of New World Methode Champenoise sparkling wine, as well as several outstanding Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. 750 0 0 1 32 3 jpg 3 3298 7 Arnot-Roberts, "Watson Ranch," Napa Valley 2015 85.00 170 0 The Watson Ranch vineyard is perched on a steep hillside overlooking the San Pablo Bay in the southernmost end of the Napa Valley. The vineyard can be seen on the top of the hill just east of the Green Island Vineyard which we sourced fruit from 2007-09. Exposed and austere, the Watson Ranch is a wind whipped site planted in 1993 by the talented grower Salvador Ramos on marine deposits over limestone. This soil type is extremely rare on the North Coast and lends itself perfectly to growing world class Chardonnay. This soil coupled with organic farming techniques and cool windy conditions give this parcel great potential to produce Chardonnay of singular character. The wine was whole cluster pressed, fermented in stainless steel by native yeasts and aged in neutral French oak barrels. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 3 3306 7 Beaujolais Blanc, "Le Jacarde," Pascal Granger 2018 46.00 162 0 The Domaine Pascal Granger is located in the hamlet of Les Poupets within the village of Juliénas in the heart of the finest sector of the Beaujolais district. This estate has been in the Granger family for over two hundred years, dating to Napoleonic times, and has passed from father to son continually. The domaine encompasses 14 hectares with vineyard holdings in the home village of Juliénas and extending through the neighboring villages of Jullié, Chénas, La Chapelle de Guinchay and Leynes. All harvesting is done manually and treatments in the vineyards are minimal with weed-growth tolerated between the vines. The only white wine produced at this domaine, the Beaujolais Blanc is sourced from vines in the village of Leynes just south of the villages of Chaintré and Fuissé, a notable area for the production of wines produced from the Chardonnay grape. This single vineyard site of “La Jacarde” is planted to old vines and was formerly part of the Domaine Bernard Dalicieux. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 4 3634 7 Bethel Heights, Eola-Amity Hills 2015 70.00 545 0 Charonnay presents the perfect opportunity to experience Bethel Heights terroir through a lens other than pinot noir. Six differnetblocks of chardonnay planted between 1977 and 2001 in various sites around the estate vineyars yield a fascinating diversity of cahracter and style. And yet, taken together, they are unmistakeably Bethel Heights. 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 12 2960 7 Bourgogne, "La Monatine," Alain Patriarche 2016 75.00 161 0 The Patriarche family has been making wine in Meursault since 1830. The entire estate is only Alain, his wife (Christiane), his two daughters, and one son in law – a true family affair. Alain’s granddaughter, Clotilde, is being groomed as the 7th generation winemaker in this talented family. The Monatine vineyard lies entirely within the village of Meursault. Alain’s vines are from the oldest part of the vineyard, but lie about 30 ft outside the boundary to be designated a village-level wine. He can therefore only market the wine as a regional Bourgogne, even though it has all the characteristics of a village Meursault. A top value that many sommeliers call, the “Baby Meursault”. 750 0 0 0.00 5 1 1 jpg 5 2390 7 Cakebread, Napa Valley 2018 95.00 57 0 A family run winery, Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973. While in Napa Valley taking photographs for a book, Jack Cakebread casaully mentioned to a family friend that he might like to own a vineyard one day. Later that day, that friend called, offering to sell him his Rutherford ranch. Wine Spectator - 90. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 20 3573 7 Cakebread "Reserve," Carneros Napa Valley 2015 150.00 741 0 Seductive, slightly floral aromas of creamy golden apple and honeydew melon, with complementary scents of crème brulee, yeast and mineral, preface a lush, full-bodied palate offering intense and expansive melon, peach and apple flavors accentuated by fresh, perfectly balanced acidity. The wine’s long, elegant and focused finish showcases bright, apple-y flavors with hints of citrus, mineral and oak spice. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 1 207 7 Cambria, "Katherine's Vineyard," Santa Maria Valley 2016 40.00 28 0 This winery was purchased by the Jackson family in 1986. They named the property Cambria as a nod to their Welsh heritage ("Cambria" is the Roman word for Wales.) Located in Santa Maria Valley, proximity to the ocean, and East - West orientation produce the cool microclimate which gives the wines their balance. Named for the proprietor's eldest daughter (Katherine). 750 1 0 10.00 1 30 1 jpg 60 3035 7 Catena, Mendoza 2013 55.00 21 0 Nicola Catena, who sailed from Italy to Argentina in 1898, celebrated leaving the famine in Europe for this plentiful new land by eating a piece of virtually raw steak for breakfast each morning. Best described as a tireless optimist, he firmly believed that he had found the promised land in Mendoza, where he planted his first Malbec vineyard in 1902. Malbec had been a blending grape in Bordeaux, but Nicola suspected it would find its hidden splendour in the Argentine Andes. 750 0 0 3 38 1 jpg 6 3419 7 Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons, Jean Paul & Benoit Droin 2016 99.00 41 0 The millions of year of geological history that built the soils of Chablis combined with its northerly latitude makes for wines of upright clarity, piercing minerality, tremendous focus and remarkable longevity. There are fewer and fewer bargains in Chablis these days as more and more growers are turning to industrial styles of farming and winemaking yet despite market pressures there remain a handful of faithful producers and families in Chablis. The Droin family is one of these. Jean–Paul and son Benoît Droin can trace their family roots as vineyard owners back to 1620. Through succeeding generations they have managed to acquire a little over 26 hectares of vines in Chablis. In 1999 Benoît began plowing his vineyard to help revitalize the microbial life in the soils and at the same time he also began to prune his vines differently to decrease yields and reduce the disease pressures in this famously inclement appellation. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 3 3241 7 Chablis "Champs Royaux," Domaine William Fèvre 2018 50.00 106 0 Coming from a family that has been in the Chablis region for more than 250 years, William Fèvre’s father was already a great wine-maker after World War II. His son William founded the Domaine de la Maladière and announced his first harvest in 1959. For many years, William Fèvre (who to this day enjoys a very good reputation as a defender of historically renowned terroirs), has worked each plot keenly and skilfully so as to make wine whose personality reflects the authenticity of the soils from which they spring. In 1998, the venerable Henriot family from Champagne succeeded him. To continue these focused efforts, the Domaine was taken up with the constant desire to make indisputably genuine and fine wines, and above all with bringing along a very personal expertise in Chardonnay. All the efforts have but one goal – to finely express the most subtle variations in the greatest Chablis crus. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 7 2786 7 Chablis Premier Cru, "Montmains," William Fevre 2017 110.00 224 0 Coming from a family that has been in the Chablis region for more than 250 years, William Fèvre’s father was already a great wine-maker after World War II. His son William founded the Domaine de la Maladière and announced his first harvest in 1959. For many years, William Fèvre (who to this day enjoys a very good reputation as a defender of historically renowned terroirs), has worked each plot keenly and skilfully so as to make wine whose personality reflects the authenticity of the soils from which they spring. In 1998, the venerable Henriot family from Champagne succeeded him. To continue these focused efforts, the Domaine was taken up with the constant desire to make indisputably genuine and fine wines, and above all with bringing along a very personal expertise in Chardonnay. All the efforts have but one goal – to finely express the most subtle variations in the greatest Chablis crus. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 3 2408 7 Moët et Chandon, "Dom Perignon" Champagne 2008 450.00 13 0 Dom Pérignon is the prestige cuvée of Moët et Chandon. It is named after Dom Pierre Pérignon, a Benedictine monk who made many important contributions to the art of making Champagne. 750 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 3 3327 7 Duckhorn, Napa Valley 2017 60.00 123 0 Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent almost forty years establishing itself as one of North America’s premier producers of Napa Valley wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today. The quality of Duckhorn Vineyards' wines has always been based on a commitment to selecting the finest fruit. Whether carefully sourcing grapes from top sites in the Napa Valley or committing itself to estate vineyards, the winery was built on the belief that great wines begin in the vineyard. At Duckhorn Vineyards this has always meant an emphasis on site and terroir. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 11 2875 7 Failla, Sonoma Coast 2018 80.00 225 1 While the history of Failla is short, it is not without its complexities. Founded as Failla Jordan in 1998, it took its name from the husband-and-wife team of winemaker Ehren Jordan and fellow debtor Anne-Marie Failla. After three vintages under the Failla Jordan label,they got into a legal dust-up with Jordan Vineyards and Winery, and the name was changed to Failla. This is the second vintage in which 20% of their young-vine Chardonnay blend was fermented and aged in concrete egg vessels. The remainder fermented and aged for 10 months in French oak, only 15% new and barely perceptible in the finished wine's flinty nose balanced with citrusy scents of grapefruit and lime filled out with a hint of jasmine and oyster-shell. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 20 2163 7 Flowers, Sonoma Coast 2016 80.00 85 0 As nursery owners in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Walt and Joan Flowers had long dreamed of combining their love of wine with their passion for agriculture. They knew they wanted to produce their favorite varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; what they didn't know was that their path would eventually lead them across the country to Northern California's rugged Sonoma Coast. After responding to a small classified ad in a national wine publication, that's exactly where they landed. This wine is a blend of several Sonoma Coast vineyards, including Camp Meeting Ridge. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 4 2454 7 Frank Family, Carneros - Napa Valley 2017 68.00 46 0 In the late 80s, Frank Rich, a long-time Disney executive, couldn’t find the time to get away for long vacations. Soon he started coming to Napa on the weekends, realizing it was only a short plane flight away from Los Angeles. In 1990, he purchased a home in the eastern hills of Napa in Rutherford. Two years later, in 1992, Rich received a midnight phone call at his home in Los Angeles from his friend Koerner Rombauer, telling him that the Kornell Champagne Cellars on the site of historic Larkmead Winery was for sale and if there was ever a time to get into the wine business it was now. Rich wisely told Koerner to offer half the asking price, and less than 24 hours later, the two were co-owners of the Calistoga winery. 750 1 0 17.00 1 28 1 jpg 93 3091 7 Freemark Abbey, Napa Valley 2018 65.00 91 0 In 1967, seven partners purchased Freemark Abbey, setting the stage for a new era of creativity. The winery earned the nickname the “University of Freemark” due to the sheer number of innovations and significant winemakers that emerged from their cellars. In 1976, wine expert Steven Spurrier conducted a legendary blind tasting in Paris – pitting the upstart wines of California against the establishment of France. Of the 12 American wineries chosen to compete, only Freemark Abbey had two wines represented – a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon. In an upset that shocked the wine world, California wines won every category of the tasting, putting Napa Valley firmly on the world stage. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 9 3492 7 Gary Farrell, Russian River Valley 2017 80.00 838 0 The Russian River Selection bottlings are quintessential Russian River Valle wines blended from some of the winery’s top vineyard sources. They are beautiful expressions of their varietal type and of the appellation’s unique terroir, each blend capturing the richness, purity and elegance that are Gary Farrell Winery’s trademarks. This layered and complex Chardonnay brings together fruit from several of their favorite Russian River Valley vineyard sites. Anchored by the naturally balanced character of Westside Farms and intriguing fl oral and stone fruit notes from Bacigalupi Vineyard, the wine’s great concentration and structure derive from the nearby Rochioli and Allen vineyards. Olivet Lane Vineyard, featuring the Wente clone, adds refreshing citrus tones and excellent acidity. It begins with intense aromatics of fresh cut lilies, chive blossoms, zesty lemons, limes and pithy white grapefruit. The abundant citrus on the nose persists on the palate as you are greeted with invigorating notes of freshly squeezed lemon juice, jasmine green tea and spicy wasabi arugula. This all comes together seamlessly on a silky palate with delicate undertones of crème fraîche and Marzipan. Pale straw in color, elegant aromas of jasmine and apple blossom fi ll the glass. Just ripened nectarines and white peaches compliment the pronounced fl oral tones while hints of graham cracker provide depth and richness. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 5 3487 7 Granville, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 99.00 742 0 Granville Wine Co. is a small family-owned vineyard and winery located in the Dundee Hills of the Willamette Valley. Led by second-generation wine growers Ayla & Jackson Holstein who focus on small lot productions of Pinot Noir & Chardonnay from their family’s Holstein Estate Vineyard. "We carefully selected this fruit from a north slope of Spirit Hill Vineyard that sits 750 feet above the Willamette Valley floor in Eola-Amity Hills AVA. After aging for 10 months in 80% neutral French oak and 20% new French oak, bright acidity is matched with minerality and stone fruits, ensuring a refreshing balanced wine. We hope you enjoy our version of Oregon Chardonnay as much as we do." 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 4 79 7 Grgich Hills, Napa 2016 110.00 80 0 Croatian born winemaker Miljenko "Mike" Grgich worked at several top wineries, including Souverain, Beaulieu, Mondavi, and Chateau Montelena, where he made the Chardonnay that was picked as the number one white wine at the Paris tasting of 1976. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 7 2758 7 Hartford Court, Russian River Valley 2018 65.00 71 0 Hartford Family Winery was founded in 1993 as a result of Don and Jennifer Hartford's appreciation for the wines, the people, and the unique vineyards near their Russian River Valley home. Located in the Sonoma County town of Forestville, the winery is about 15 miles from the cool Pacific Coast. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 3 3192 7 Heitz, Napa Valley 2016 65.00 110 0 The Heitz name is so deeply ingrained in the culture of Cabernet connoisseurs that some people are surprised to discover they have been making Chardonnay since the winery was founded in 1961. This rich, complex Chardonnay is surprisingly bright and elegant on the palate. Lush aromatics open effortlessly into flavors or ripe melon and apricot. A creamy texture is nicely balanced with refreshing acidity and mineral notes. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 9 1890 7 Iron Horse, Vintage Brut, Green Valley 2013 99.00 5 0 Iron Horse is one of Sonoma County's most prestigious independent family owned wineries. The founding partners, Audrey and Barry Sterling first saw it in the pouring rain in February 1976. Driving down Ross Station Road, they were sure they were lost until they crested the knoll and the view opened up to 300 acres of gentle rolling hills and a wall of trees behind that looked like Camelot to them. Incurable romantics, and having extraordinary vision, they bought the property in just two weeks.Their wines have been served at the White House for the past four consecutive presidential administrations. 750 0 0 1 29 3 jpg 5 1880 7 Iron Horse, "Unoaked," Green Valley 2017 60.00 35 0 Iron Horse is one of Sonoma County's most prestigious independent family owned wineries. The founding partners, Audrey and Barry Sterling first saw it in the pouring rain in February 1976. Driving down Ross Station Road, they were sure they were lost until they crested the knoll and the view opened up to 300 acres of gentle rolling hills and a wall of trees behind that looked like Camelot to them. Incurable romantics, and having extraordinary vision, they bought the property in just two weeks.The wines have been served at the White House for the past four consecutive presidential administrations. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 5 3621 7 La Crema "Kelli Ann Vineyard," Russian River Valley 2016 80.00 363 0 One of the winery's most treasured estate vineyards, Kelli Ann, sits a stone’s throw away from the meandering and picturesque Russian River. This long-established site yields wine with both dimension and concentration. Pear, golden apple, sweet lemon, nougat and baking spices combine with lush texture and balanced acidity. "Aromas of baked pear, nectarine and crème brûlée. Flavors of yellow apple, plum, toasted hazelnut and a touch of nutmeg. Richly textured and concentrated with balanced acidity and subtle toast.” Jennifer Walsh, Winemaker 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 6 3401 7 Ladoix "Le Clou d'Orge," Louis Jadot 2015 85.00 353 0 Ladoix is a village located to the north of Côte de Beaune, to the north-east of the village called Aloxe-Corton, next to the famous hill of Corton. The altitude is between 220 and 360 m and the exposure is east/south-east. The soil contains clay and marls. This vineyard is located on a soft slope with a nice exposure. The soil is stony and not very deep. The vineyard is about twenty years old and is cultivated by maison Louis Jadot since 2007. This Ladoix white is aged in French oak barrels during 14 months. This particular wine is full of fruit flesh giving a nice impression. Moreover it has a nice acidity. It is very harmonious. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 2 2870 7 Laetita, "Estate," Arroyo Grande Valley 2016 50.00 64 0 The Laetitia Estate Vineyards were first planted to grapes in 1982 when French viticulturists found ideal growing conditions in the Arroyo Grande Valley for producing wines of similar character to those of their homeland in Epernay, France. Nineteen years later, the property would be acquired by Selim Zilkha, founder of a successful wind power development company and champion of environmental sustainability. Between his qualifications in renewable energy solutions and his passion for the pleasures of the harvest, Selim has developed Laetitia into the home of some of California's highest quality, sustainably-produced wines. 750 0 0 1 30 1 jpg 2 3464 7 Leeuwin, "Art Series," Margaret River 2014 185.00 111 0 The “Art Series” represents Leeuwin’s most opulent & ageworthy wines from each vintage. They are identified with paintings commissioned from leading contemporary Australian artists. A pristine and lifted nose highlighted by Nashi pears, limes, white peach and fig. The primary fruits are complimented by nutmeg, cinnamon, almonds and sesame that creates subtle complexity. The palate has concentration with clarity and purity. An introduction of grapefruit and pear lead to a delicately textured, layered and woven palate with nougat, anise and cashews present. There is immense length that finishes with a fine acid line and mineral finish. 750 0 0 14 40 1 jpg 3 2725 7 Louis Roederer, "Brut Premier", Champagne 140.00 17 0 In 1833 Louis Roederer inherited the Champagne house of his uncle, Nicolas Schreider. Along with his brother Eugene, and partner Hugues Kraft, he saw sales rise from 100,000 to 700,000 bottles. The house is run today by Frederic Rouzaud, and is considered to be one of the premier producers of Champagne. A blend of around 40% Pinot noir, 40% Chardonnay, and 20% Pinot Meunier, Brut Premier comprises wine matured in oak tuns produced from three Champagne grape varieties that originate from various crus selected by Louis Roederer. It is aged for 3 years in Louis Roederer’s cellars and left for a minimum of 6 months after dégorgement (disgorging). Striking a perfect balance between youthfulness and maturity, seduction and character, freshness and vinosity, Brut Premier is a champagne that is harmonious and structured, elegant and lively, with a unique exuberancy. Its structured texture, richness, and length are distinctly winey. It is a full, complex wine that is both rich and powerful, whilst remaining a great classic. 750 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 5 3390 7 Lucia (Pisoni), Santa Lucia Highlands 2014 65.00 220 0 The first vintage of Lucia debuted in 2000 with the Lucia Pinot Noir from the Garys’ Vineyard. It was the beginning of a new chapter for the Pisoni family, with Mark and Jeff Pisoni joining their father Gary to pursue a shared dream of building the family wine business and adding winemaking to grapegrowing. Today, with Mark as grower and Jeff as winemaker, Lucia wines are considered among the finest in California. In the Wine Advocate, Jeb Dunnuck writes, “The Pisoni Family’s Lucia label continues to be a source of incredible wines that always over-deliver.” 375 0 0 1 30 1 jpg 3 375 ml 3476 7 Mâcon-Solutré, Domaine des Gerbeaux 2017 50.00 848 0 Nested in the village of Solutré-Pouilly, close to the famous Rock of Solutré, Domaine Des Gerbeaux is owned and run by Béatrice and Jean-Michel Drouin, who took over the domain in 1979. The Drouins have been making wine in Burgundy for over a century and Jean-Michel is producing some of the best and most distinctive wines in the Mâconnais region, all in very small quantities (barely 5,000 cases a year). Béatrice also comes from a vineyard owning family and between them they have a collection of over forty small parcels of vines spread around Mâcon, St. Véran, Pouilly, and Solutré: 15 acres altogether of prime vineyard sites. Harvesting is entirely by hand using small baskets, no pesticides or herbicides are used and fermentation temperature control is rigorous. These are generous, fruit-laden wines characterized by grapefruit and mineral flavors that can hold their own against much of the fancy Côte de Beaune. Jean-Michel is obsessive about every aspect of his winemaking. Viticulture is biodynamic in all but name. A rich and complex wine with aromas of white and exotic fruits; on the palate, it is round and silky, mineral, with a smooth persistent finish on a white fruit nose. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 6 3394 7 Meursault Premier Cru "Genevrieres," Bouchard Pere & Fils 2015 140.00 181 0 Founded in 1731 in Beaune by Michel Bouchard, Bouchard Père & Fils, is one of the oldest wine estates in Burgundy, perpetuating tradition for nearly 3 centuries and 9 generations. In olden days, the vineyards of this great Meursault must have been surrounded by junipers whose name has lived on. This prestigious appellation was classified as a "Tête de cuvée" as early as 1855 by Dr Lavalle in his renowned book "Histoire et Statistiques de la Vigne et des Grands Vins de la Côte-d'Or". At that time, the terms Premiers Crus and Grands Crus were not in use. Bouchard Père & Fils owns 2.65 hectares of Meursault Genevrières, often the first Chardonnays to be harvested on the estate. Subtle bouquet of fruit and flowers combined with toasted hints. Full yet refined, without the slightest heaviness and with the liveliness typical of Les Genevrières. A voluptuous wine. Good ageing potential. 375 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 5 375 ml 3220 7 Meursault, Jean-Michel Gaunoux 2011 225.00 293 0 With family that’s been rooted in the Cote d'Or for several centuries, Jean-Michel Gaunoux cultivates three Premier Cru sites within Meursault: "Perrieres", "Genevrieres", and "Les Gouttes d'Or". Totalling 6ha of vines across Meursault, Pommard, and Volnay holdings, Jean-Michel worked with his father, Francois Gaunoux, of Domaine Francois Gaunoux, until establishing Domaine Jean-Michel Gaunoux in 1990. Practicing lutte raisonnée in the vineyard, Jean-Michel works the soil without pesticides, practicing green harvesting to ensure low yields. Via traditional vinification methods, Gaunoux’s wines see 15-30% new oak and are bottled after 15-16 months; they are neither filtered nor fined, and their aging potential is outstanding. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 3 3120 7 Meursault, Jean Philippe Fichet 2013 160.00 198 0 Jean-Philippe has always been close to the vineyards: he represents the third generation of winemakers in his family. In 1981, thanks to the handing over of one of his father's sharecropping agreements, he was able to create his own vineyard. The confidence of his father and of the owners allowed him to work on their premises with their equipment for three years. As a result he produced his first vintage at 20 years of age. This Meursault comes from four vineyards: "Les Narvaux", with a south-east exposure, is on stony soil located on hard rock subsoil. This plot produces elegant and mineral wines. "Les Clous", located on shallow marl (30-40 cm) produces delicate, elegant and mineral wines. "Le Limozin" has beautiful sloping moderately deep land producing long and rich wines. "Les Criots" and "Les Crotots" are on very rich soil and produce generous, slightly buttery and fat wines. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 6 3466 7 Meursault Les Chevalières, Xavier Monnot 2016 175.00 87 0 Xavier Monnot is a leading producer in Meursault whose winemaking style emphasizes purity of fruit, elegance, and complexity. Xavier can trace his mother’s ancestors, the Monniers, back to 1723, with six generations of winegrowing. Xavier took over in 1994 after completing his oenological studies and began replanting parcels with a combination of selection massale from old vines and new clones, and updated the cellar with modern equipment. Prior to the release of the 2005 vintage, the property was known as Domaine René Monnier (Xavier's grandfather). Domaine Xavier Monnot is a 42 acre estate in Meursault with vineyards stretching from Beaune to Maranges in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Sixty percent of the Domaine's production is white with holdings in Monthelie, Meursault, Chassagne-Montrachet, and Puligny-Montrachet. Important white wine premier crus include Meursault Charmes, Chassagne-Montrachet En Remilly, and Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières. The remaining 40% of Xavier's production is in red with climats spread across four villages: Beaune, Pommard, Volnay, and Maranges. Red premier crus include Beaune Les Cent-Vignes, Beaune Les Toussaints, Volnay Clos des Chênes, and the monopole Maranges Clos de La Fussière. Xavier believes in maintaining an average vine age of 30 to 40 years and practices lutte raisonnée (“reasoned struggle”). 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 3 2642 7 Meursault, "Vieilles Vignes," Dom. Alain Patriarche 2016 125.00 55 0 The Patriarche family has grown grapes in Meursault for five generations. This wine comes from vines over 60 years old. It shows all the power and complexity that is typical of a great Meursault. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 3 3530 7 Neyers, Carneros District 2015 75.00 834 0 Bruce Neyers served stints at Mayacamas and Joseph Phelps wineries before becoming sales manager for a little importer called Kermit Lynch. Bruce was heavily influenced by the French style of winemaking and it shows in his balanced wines. This Chardonnay sees about 30% new French oak and it’s integrated into the wine perfectly. The malo-lactic fermentation that it undergoes does just enough to give the wine a lovely, round mouthfeel. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 6 3050 7 Pahlmeyer, "Jayson," North Coast 2017 120.00 139 0 Jayson wines exemplify Jayson Pahlmeyer’s unquenchable desire for excellence and cutting-edge winemaking. Produced with the same impeccable standards and winemaking pedigree for which Pahlmeyer is known, Jayson wines are at once luxurious and instantly approachable. The new label showcases the wines’ pedigree and distinction. 750 0 0 1 30 1 jpg 3 2552 7 Peay, Sonoma Coast 2015 99.00 60 1 Peay Vineyards is a first-generation family winery. Husband and wife, Nick Peay & Vanessa Wong, grow and make the wine and brother, Andy Peay, and his wife Ami, sell the wine and run the business. All wines are made from grapes grown on their 53-acre estate vineyard located above a river gorge in the far northwestern corner of the Sonoma Coast, 4 miles from the Pacific Ocean at Sea Ranch. It sits in the chilly inversion layer with fog and wind from the Ocean maintaining cool temperatures with plenty of sunlight. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 15 3082 7 Peirson Meyer, Russian River Valley 2016 95.00 113 0 It was a spring evening in 2001, when Lesley Warner-Peirson, her husband Alan Peirson, Robbie and Shannon Meyer were enjoying a bottle of wine together when their discussion turned to the future. They had all met at the Peter Michael Winery Estate, where Robbie was the Assistant Winemaker, and Alan and Lesleywere the Winery Estate Managers. In classic fashion, they came up with the name and logo for their brand, sketching it out on a cocktail napkin. That evening began their adventure together. In the Fall of 2001 they produced their first vintage, 300 cases of L'Angevin Russian River Valley Chardonnay. In 2005 they created a companion to our original brand L'Angevin. The Peirson Meyer label is named after the two founding families of L'Angevin. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 3 76 7 Perrier-Jouët, "Fleur de Champagne" 2007 375.00 11 0 Founded in 1811 by cork manufacturer Pierre Perrier. Perrier later married Adele Jouet, and started the Champagne trading house in Epernay know today as Perrier - Jouët. 750 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 4 3524 7 Pouilly Fuisse "Les Chevrieres," Dominique Cornin 2016 110.00 240 0 The individual vineyards of this domaine are an apt reflection of the Cornin family. Each parcel carries a part of the family’s history in the Mâconnais. Les Chevrières holds the same plot Dominique’s grandfather planted more than 50 years ago. Clos Reyssié bears fruit from the same vines his father put to seed in 1938. The 100-year-old parcel in Les Serreudières reaches even deeper into the Cornins’ roots in Mâcon.In the same manner that these old vines labor to yield the fruit, Dominique subtly guides the wine from vine to bottle with little intervention. The Cornins use only biodynamic farming methods, and their only motive is to give each of their vineyards the best chance to express its own terroir. All the wines are fermented in stainless-steel tanks, and the single-vineyard wines are aged in used oak barrels. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 6 3552 7 Pouilly-Fuissé, Château de Beauregard 2016 55.00 727 1 The Burriers have been a prominent winegrowing family in southern Burgundy since the 15th Century and have owned the Château de Beauregard in Pouilly-Fuissé for six generations. Frédéric-Marc Burrier is the current family member in charge and bottles several different wines from Pouilly-Fuissé along with wines from Mâcon and Saint-Véran. 375 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 24 375 ml 3202 7 Pouilly-Fuissé "Cuvée Marie Antoinette," JJ Vincent 2017 68.00 127 0 J.J.Vincent produces a range of wines made with the same care and expertise as those made at the Vincent’s historic domaine, Château Fuissé. JJ Vincent Pouilly-Fuissé Cuvée Marie Antoinette is a tribute to Jean Jacques Vincent’s mother, Marie Antoinette Vincent. The wine is sourced from several parcels including young vines from the Chateau Fuissé vineyards of Le Clos, Les Brulés and Les Combettes as well as several non-domaine yet family owned parcels throughout the appellation. Cuvée Marie Antoinette is created with a fresh, youthful profile in mind. The grapes are vinified in stainless steel tank with only about 25% of the total blend seeing any time in oak. The resulting wine is pleasing, refreshing and crisp on the palate, with youthful layers of acidity, apple, peach and vanilla. 750 1 0 17.00 5 1 1 jpg 31 3465 7 Puligny-Montrachet Champs Gains 1er Cru, Alain Chavy 2017 250.00 107 0 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 4 3314 7 Ridge Vineyards, Santa Cruz 2014 112.00 131 0 The history of Ridge Vineyards begins in 1885, when Osea Perrone, a doctor who became a prominent member of San Francisco’s Italian community, bought 180 acres near the top of Monte Bello Ridge. He terraced the slopes and planted vineyards; using native limestone, he constructed the Monte Bello Winery, producing the first vintage under that name in 1892. This unique cellar, built into the mountainside on three levels, is Ridge’s production facility. At 2600′, it is surrounded by the “upper vineyard”, now referred to as the Perrone Ranch. Sustainably farmed, hand harvested estate-grown Monte Bello vineyard grapes; wholecluster pressed; fermented on the native yeasts; full malolactic on the naturally occurring bacteria; oak from barrel aging Sun-bleached straw color. Ripe pineapple, green apple, pear, melon, biscotti, flint, toasted oak. Elegant fresh citrus entry, ginger root, limestone earth, lemon zest finish. 750 0 0 1 30 1 jpg 6 68 7 Rodney Strong, "Chalk Hill," Sonoma 2017 45.00 331 0 The story of Rodney Strong Winery begins more than 50 years ago, when a celebrated American dancer named Rod Strong settled in Sonoma County to pursue a second lifelong creative passion: winemaking. Rodney Strong Vineyards was the 13th winery bonded in the newly discovered Sonoma County wine industry. A trio of winemaking paths crossed when Rick Sayre joined the team as Winemaker in 1979, and again when the Klein Family, 4th generation California farmers, purchased the winery in 1989 and initiated a renewed commitment of modern artisan winemaking. Through the years, Rodney Strong Vineyards has earned the reputation for critically acclaimed Single Vineyard and Reserve wines, stand out Estate releases and best-in-class Sonoma County varietal wines. The Chalk Hill subappellation in the Russian River Valley has a unique white volcanic ash soil which imparts a subtle minerality to the wine. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 12 3624 7 Rombauer, Carneros 2018 99.00 374 0 Rombauer Vineyards began producing Chardonnay in 1982. In 1990, the Rombauer family made their first Chardonnay from the Carneros region, where San Pablo Bay meets the southern end of Napa and Sonoma valleys. There, the cool climate and clay soils offer ideal conditions for growing superior Chardonnay with the Rombauer hallmarks – intense fruit flavors balanced by fresh acidity Pale yellow with a green tinge to the hue. Aromas of yellow peach, mango with a slight citrus note intertwine seamlessly with vanilla spice. The palate is rich and round, with the mango and vanilla fight for the lime light, while the creamy texture, vanilla and slight butter combine seamlessly. The balanced acidity closes out the finish bringing the multiple components into balance. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 12 3626 7 Rombauer, Carneros 2018 50.00 351 0 Rombauer Vineyards began producing Chardonnay in 1982. In 1990, the Rombauer family made their first Chardonnay from the Carneros region, where San Pablo Bay meets the southern end of Napa and Sonoma valleys. There, the cool climate and clay soils offer ideal conditions for growing superior Chardonnay with the Rombauer hallmarks – intense fruit flavors balanced by fresh acidity Pale yellow with a green tinge to the hue. Aromas of yellow peach, mango with a slight citrus note intertwine seamlessly with vanilla spice. The palate is rich and round, with the mango and vanilla fight for the lime light, while the creamy texture, vanilla and slight butter combine seamlessly. The balanced acidity closes out the finish bringing the multiple components into balance. 375 0 0 1 29 1 12 375 ml 3006 7 Schramsberg, "Blanc de Blanc," North Coast 2016 90.00 95 0 The “Blanc de Blancs,” or “white from white,” made from Chardonnay is the counterpart to the “Blanc de Noirs,” or “white from black,” made from Pinot Noir. Blanc de Blancs was the first wine Schramsberg produced in 1965 and was America’s first commercially produced Chardonnay-based brut sparkling wine. Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs gained international recognition in 1972 when then President Nixon served the wine at the historic “Toast to Peace” in Beijing, China. The Schramsberg style of Blanc de Blancs is dry and crisp. Small lots of malolactic- and barrel-fermented wines are added for complexity. The wine is aged on the yeast lees in the bottle for over two years prior to disgorgement. With its vibrant, fruitful and crisp nature, this sparkling wine will maintain its freshness, structure and refined finish for many years, even decades following its initial release. 750 0 0 1 30 3 jpg 4 2611 7 Schug, Los Carneros 2016 40.00 58 0 Founded in 1980, Schug Carneros Estate Winery is the showcase and life-long dream of one of California's most celebrated winemakers. Walter Schug's reputation blossomed during his tenure as Founding Winemaker for Joseph Phelps Vineyards in the 1970s, where he made California’s first proprietary Bordeaux-Style blend (Insignia) and legendary vineyard designated Cabernets (Backus and Eisele Vineyards). 375 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 4 375 ml 3030 7 Schug, Los Carneros 2015 65.00 79 0 Founded in 1980, Schug Carneros Estate Winery is the showcase and life-long dream of one of California's most celebrated winemakers. Walter Schug's reputation blossomed during his tenure as Founding Winemaker for Joseph Phelps Vineyards in the 1970s, where he made California’s first proprietary Bordeaux-Style blend (Insignia) and legendary vineyard designated Cabernets (Backus and Eisele Vineyards). 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 10 2435 7 Shafer, "Red Shoulder Ranch," Carneros - Napa Valley 2017 140.00 18 0 Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet grapes in 1978 and began construction on their winery a year later. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 6 2641 7 St. Aubin, "1er Cru - Le Charmois," Hubert Bouzeron - Gruère et Filles 2014 150.00 42 0 Domaine Hubert Bouzereau Gruere is a family business, the product of two old winemaking families from Meursault (Hubert Bouzereau), and Chassagne-Montrachet (Marie-France Gruère). Hubert Bouzereau represents the seventh generation of winemakers in his family, and he established his own domaine with his wife in 1970. Today, two of their daughters assist in running the winery, Marie-Laure since 1995, and Marie-Anne since 1999. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 3 2005 7 Stags' Leap, Napa 2018 50.00 31 0 Stags' Leap winery was founded in 1893 by Horace and Minnie Chase. The name of the winery (and the AVA in which it is located) comes from an Native American legend that tells of a stag leaping from peak to peak to escape hunters in the mountains that surround Napa Valley. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 13 2420 7 Steele, "Blue Ridge - Reserve," Mendocino 2017 52.00 74 1 This Chardonnay was vinted and bottled for Blue Ridge Grill by Steele Winery. It comes from the cool climate of Mendocino County, to the North of Sonoma. It displays a balance of citrus, stone fruit, and pear flavors, with a hint of butter and oak to round out the palate. 750 1 0 13.00 1 30 1 jpg 59 211 7 Trefethen, Napa 2017 50.00 29 0 Eugene and Katie Trefethen came to Napa Valley in 1968, where they purchased the dilapidated Eshcol property, complete with a collapsing “ghost winery," and several surrounding farms, and quickly began replanting everything to wine grapes. At that time there were less than 20 operational wineries in Napa. In 1979, Trefethen Chardonnay earned the title of “Best Chardonnay in the World” at the Gault-Millau Wine Olympics in Paris. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 14 3437 7 Unum, Arroyo Seco - Monterrey County 2014 45.00 19 1 The 2014 Arroyo Seco Chardonnay is sourced from Sip Certified vineyards representing the coolest AVA on the Monterey Peninsula. The vineyards are found on the west side of Monterey along the cold and foggy Arroyo Seco River area. The vineyards are densely planted at approximately 1700 vines per acre and are made up of alluvial gravel, rock, sand and silt. Our 2014 Arroyo Seco Chardonnay is comprised of the finest fruit Arroyo Seco offers which results in a wine of intense tropical flavors and aromas with balance and a creamy mouthfeel. A full Chardonnay that’s light on its feet, showing off nice balance and focused tropical fruit notes on the palette. The guava, honeysuckle, and pineapple notes are beautifully framed by the deft touch of French oak leading to a perfectly framed sip of tropical fruit flavors, toasty vanilla oak, and perfectly balanced acidity. 750 0 0 1 30 1 jpg 12 3546 7 Chardonnay, Viberti, Piedmont 2016 55.00 246 0 Tropical fruit flavors of banana and star fruit are complemented by crisp golden apple aromas. Notes of acacia further enhance the bouquet. Produced from Estate-grown fruit, Viberti Chardonnay is vinified in stainless steel undergoing full malolactic fermentation. The wine rests in stainless steel tanks for 12 months prior to bottling unfiltered. 750 0 0 8 10 1 jpg 3 1554 7 ZD, California 2017 62.00 37 0 In 1969, two aerospace engineers Norman deLeuze and Gino Zepponi, along with their families, turned their entrepreneurial enthusiasm toward winemaking. It was the early days of the California wine industry and they were among Napa Valley’s adventurous winemaking pioneers. Their founding concept was to produce world class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir reminiscent of France’s renowned Burgundy wines. They achieved this endeavor by using grapes from the cool Carneros regions of Napa and Sonoma. 750 0 0 1 30 1 jpg 14 2820 8 Clarendelle 2018 55.00 122 0 Mr. Clarence Dillon, an eminent American financier, visited Bordeaux in 1934. He fell under the spell of Château Haut-Brion and recognized the unique opportunity of acquiring such a legendary estate: he had discovered a precious jewel waiting to shine once again. Although famous for centuries, Haut-Brion was going through difficult times. Mr Clarence Dillon purchased the estate in 1935 and this was the beginning of his family's long commitment and dedication to this famous château, as well as to the wines of Bordeaux. Every improvement and innovation since then has been guided by a love of perfection, and Château Haut-Brion has remained worthy of its noble heritage thanks to the men and women responsible for implementing them. 750 0 0 5 2 1 jpg 4 1922 8 Cloudy Bay, Marlborough 2019 80.00 108 0 Cloudy Bay Vineyards was established in 1985 by Cape Mentelle Vineyards in Western Australia, and is today part of Estates & Wines. Innovation, meticulous attention to detail and regional expression, are the guiding principles of Cloudy Bay. The winery takes its name from the bay at the eastern extremity of the Wairau Valley, which was named Cloudy Bay by Captain Cook on his voyage to New Zealand in 1770. 750 0 0 15 41 1 jpg 8 876 8 Chateau D'Yquem, Sauternes 2010 500.00 968 0 Generally considered to be the top estate in Sauternes, Château d'Yquem is the only Sauternes to be given the ranking of a Premier Cru Supérieur ("Great First Growth"). A good vintage of this wine is capable of aging for over a century. 375 0 0 5 2 4 jpg 1 375 ml 3110 8 Far Niente "Dolce," Napa Valley 2012 120.00 966 0 Dolce embraces a deceptively simple philosophy: the pursuit of perfection in the art of late harvest winemaking. Created in 1985 by the partners of Far Niente, its existence is the result of overcoming remarkable adversity and developing expertise where no one else in the U.S. had it. Dolce stands as the pinnacle, where Mother Nature and craftsmanship combine to define luxury through a wine capable of flirting with your emotions like no other. With a classic blend of late harvest Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, Dolce is the only American winery dedicated to producing a single late harvest wine. Dolce has brought forth a wine in every vintage, yet in small, unpredictable quantities; witness to the incredible difficulties presented every year in the effort to make Dolce. 375 0 0 21.00 1 28 4 jpg 4 375 ml 3193 8 Heitz, Napa Valley 2017 65.00 145 0 When Heitz opened in 1961, there were less than 20 wineries in Napa Valley. Their Cabernet is known as one of the original classic Napa Cabs. Heitz is also known for being one of the wineries participating in the famous Paris wine tasting of 1976. The fruit is estate sourced from the lower elevations of the Ink Grade Vineyard. In this idyllic spot, the geography and microclimate are uniquely suited for Sauvignon Blanc. The mornings are extremely cold and the afternoons are warm, a variation of temperature that allows for exceptional ripening. This vineyard is organically farmed and the grapes are certified organic (CCOF). The aromatics seem to leap from the glass: tropical notes of passionfruit and citrusy lemon blossom, impeccably balanced on the palate with a lovely crispness and refreshing finish. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 1 3502 8 Hourglass, Napa Valley 2018 99.00 157 0 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 6 2996 8 Ken Forrester, Stellenbosch 2019 34.00 32 0 Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, Ken Forrester's vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. Over the years their range of top quality wines has received massive national and international acclaim with literally hundreds of awards and accolades over the last 20 years and are broadly available in reputable restaurants and exported around the globe. Ken Forrester’s philosophy has always been to create a range of handcrafted, individually made wines that suitably complement a wide variety of food styles and provide excellent value. 750 0 0 13 45 1 jpg 4 3496 8 Kim Crawford, Marlborogh 2018 29.00 116 0 With incredible speed, Kim Crawford’s powerful, aromatic wines began winning awards and gained a devoted, even fanatical, following. Only two years after launch, Kim Crawford Wines began exporting to the United States. Within four years, the company moved into a state-of-the-art winery in Marlborough and began looking at vinyards to purchase and cultivate. Classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc aromas of lifted citrus, tropical fruit, and crushed herbs. A fresh, juicy wine with vibrant acidity and plenty of weight and length on the palate. Ripe, tropical fruit flavor with passion fruit, melon, and grapefruit. 375 0 0 15 41 1 jpg 4 375 ml 3339 8 Pouilly Fumé, Domaine Seguin 2017 55.00 121 0 Domaine Seguin was founded in the Nineteenth Century by the Roumier Family, and expanded in 1905 when Berthe Roumier married Ernest Seguin. Their goal is to make the best quality wines they can by expressing the terroir of the estate's varied soil types and climate. This wine has extraordinary floral notes as well as aromatics of smoke, gun flint, lemon, and pink grapefruit with intense Sauvignon flavors. On the palate it has a round mouthfeel, and ends with a beautiful long finish. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 2 3312 8 Pouilly Fume, "Pur Sang," Didier Dagueneau 2014 260.00 150 0 Known as the "Wild Man" of the Loire, Didier Dagueneau was one of the premier winemakers of the region. Through his rigorous fruit selection, low yields, and experimentation with barrels, his wines became some of the most sought after expressions of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc. After his unfortunate passing in 2008 in an ultralight accident, his son Louis Benjamin took over the estate. "Pur Sang" comes from the South-facing "La Folie" vineyard plot. The silex clay soil produces powerful wines of great complexity and aging potential. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 2 3592 8 Sancerre, Gerard Fiou 2018 76.00 234 0 Domaine Gerard Fiou is a small family domaine in the east of the Sancerre appellation in the town of Saint Satur. There are only a handful of producers here and the soil is unique in that it has a high percentage of silex (or flint) which typically is identified with Pouilly Fumé, which lies just across the Loire river. The domaine now has just under 10 hectares, and they are in the process of converting to certified organic viticulture. Only 15% of the Sancerre appellation has these special silex soils. The terroir, coupled with the older vineyards (an average of 60 years old), gives the wines have a unique and intense mineral expression that is distinctly Sancerre. 750 1 0 19.00 5 4 1 jpg 45 3226 8 Sancerre, Jean-Max Roger, "Cuvée Marnes et Caillottes" 2017 75.00 67 0 The Roger family descends from a long line of winegrowers from the village of Bué. The first texts that mention the name date back to the early 17th century. Jean-Max Roger took over the four hectares of vines left to him by his parents in the early 1970s and expanded the estate to its current size. Beginning in 2004, two of his three sons, Etienne and Thibault, came back to work at the estate after various professional experiences in France and abroad. The “C.M." cuvée is made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in vineyard parcels with varying types of soil: “Caillottes” and “Kimmeridgian Marls”. Each terroir contributes complexity and finesse to this cuvée. The “caillottes” give the wine its floral and fruity notes, along with its lightness and freshness while the “terres blanches” (Kimmeridgian marls) provide structure, richness and power. It is its multiple origins that lend this cuvée its personality. It shows fruity freshness and characteristic finesse on the palate that make it a wine that will age well for up to 5 years, though it is best enjoyed within the first three years. This cuvée may be enjoyed on its own throughout the day or as an aperitif. It is the perfect complement to the bounty of the sea, including crustaceans, shellfish, and raw or cooked fish. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 4 2808 8 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, Napa Valley 2017 60.00 100 0 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars has a long and distinguished wine reputation and is considered a Napa Valley first-growth estate. Founded in 1970, it was a time when the Napa Valley was undergoing a renaissance after the devastating effects of prohibition. Although there had once been some 140 wineries in the valley, there were fewer than 20 by the mid-1960s when a new spirit of excitement had returned to the Napa Valley. 750 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 5 3113 8 Villa Maria, "Private Bin," Marlborough - New Zealand 2019 36.00 160 0 In 1961, at just 21 years of age, George leased five acres of land from his father in Mangere, Auckland and started off with just an acre of vines. He harvested his first grapes in 1962 and made his first wine under the name Villa Maria. Throughout the 1960s Villa Maria was a one-man band, with George’s wife, Gail, supporting him in his venture. He made dry red and white wines, sourcing grapes from the greater Auckland regions. In the early 1970s he started to employ staff and the company began to expand rapidly. Today, Villa Maria employs more than 250 permanent staff and exports wine to over 50 countries worldwide. This intense Sauvignon Blanc is alive with a myriad of flavours dominated by gooseberry, passionfruit, fresh citrus, melon and herbaceous aromas. 750 1 0 9.00 15 41 1 jpg 87 2881 9 Kerner, Abbazia di Novacella, Alto Adige 2017 55.00 177 1 Abbazia di Novacella, located at 1,800 feet above sea level in the Isarco Valley of the Alto Adige region, is Italy’s northernmost winery, specializing in cool-climate white wines, many of which are made from grapes of Germanic origin. The Abbey was founded in 1142 by the Augustinian order of monks. Unlike other orders, such as the Benedictines, Augustinian monks are a ’working’ more than a contemplative order, without the required vows of silence. The reigning Abbot is always in charge of Abbazia di Novacella. The Kerner grape is an aromatic white grape variety. It was bred in 1929 by August Herold by crossing Trollinger (a red variety also known as Schiava grossa or Vernatsch) and Riesling. 750 0 0 8 14 1 jpg 5 3540 9 Albariño, Terras Gauda, Rias Baixas 2018 45.00 243 0 A premium boutique winery group, the Terras Gauda wineries were founded in 1989. The original Terras Gauda estates and winery are located in O Rosal, Rias Baixas,; the group also encompasses Pittacum in D.O. Bierzo and Quinta Sardonia in the Douro area, the most recent addition to the group founded by Peter Sisseck. Terras Gauda is a leader in working with the heirloom varieties of Rías Baixas, including Albariño and the rare Caiño Blanco, an indigenous grape used in the O Rosal blend and showcased in the limited bottling, Terras Gauda La Mar. Caiño Blanco almost disappeared from Rías Baixas in the 1980s, until Terras Gauda rediscovered its high quality and launched an ambitious replanting program in 1989. 750 0 0 6 36 1 jpg 4 3285 9 Albariño, Pazo de San Mauro, Rias Baixas 2016 52.00 68 0 An albariño varietal that expresses the grape’s distinctive qualities: notes of fresh fruit, citrus and floral hints. The harvest is performed by hand, with the vine stocks aged between 16 and 41 years, growing in geologically ancient granite-rich soil with a sandy texture. Pazo de San Mauro was founded in 1591, making it one of Europe’s longest-standing wineries. Located in the Condado de Tea sub-zone, it has its own vineyards, forming a natural amphitheatre that drops down to the banks of the River Miño. An idyllic setting, steeped in legend and mystery, where the Albariño grape used to make this intense and aromatic wine slowly ripens. 750 0 0 0.00 6 36 1 jpg 4 3368 9 Bourgogne Aligoté, François Carillon 2017 46.00 171 0 Domaine François Carillon is the heritage of the Carillon Family, which has been in Puligny Montrachet since the sixteenth century. The logo currently used by the domaine was rediscovered on an engaved rock from 1632 in a cave in the village. With fifteen generations of farmers behind him, François Carillon has worked at the domaine since 1988, alongside his father, and then his son. The 2010s are the first wines François Carillon has vinified on his own following the division of the family estate. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 1 3399 9 Bouzeron (Aligoté ), Louis Jadot 2015 60.00 324 0 Bouzeron is a small village located in the Côte Chalonnaise next to Rully. The size of the appellation is very small: 47 hectares. Bouzeron is a rather new appellation dating back to 1998, only producing white wine with the Aligoté grape. It is the only identified place in Burgundy where a village appellation is produced with the aligoté grape. The Burgundy Aligoté grape dates back to the 17th century and has then been replaced by the Chardonnay grape. Fermentation and vinification take place in stainless steel tanks and aging in French oak barrels (30% new barrels). This wine is bottled one year after vintage. This special Aligoté is well structured, with hints of peaches. The acidity is light, this wine is very fresh and lively. 750 0 0 5 1 1 jpg 4 3515 9 Broadbent Sercial Madeira - 10 Year 120.00 914 0 Glass: $10 The history of Madeira wine stretches back to the Age of Exploration, when Madeira was a frequent port of call for ships whose captains would fuel up on wine—fortified to prevent spoilage—for their trans-Atlantic journey. The blazing heat of the sea voyage transformed the flavor of the wines, a metamorphosis reproduced by a process called estufagem during which the wines are heated to as high as 60°C (140°F) and oxidated. Begun in 1996, Broadbent Madeira was inspired by Bartholomew Broadbent’s father, Michael Broadbent, who called Madeira his “desert island wine,” and who played a crucial role along with his wife, Daphne, in sourcing the wines and establishing the blends. 750 0 0 10.00 9 42 4 jpg 1 1372 9 Châteauneuf du Pape, Vieux Lazaret 2017 87.00 137 0 The story of the Quiot family begins in the Vaucluse, at Chateauneuf-du-Pape where Antoine Quiot acquired a few hectares of vines in 1748. Today, the Domaine du Vieux Lazaret comprises more than 100 hectares with some of the land located in the Côtes du Ventoux region. The 13th generation of the family currently work the estate. Wine Spectator - 88. 750 0 0 5 6 1 jpg 3 3389 9 Condrieu "La Petite Côte," Yves Cuilleron 2015 85.00 210 0 The Cuilleron family domaine, located in the hamlet of Verlieu (part of the town of Chavanay) was founded several generations ago (1920). Yves Cuilleron's grandfather was the first to bottle wine for commercial purposes in 1947. Yves assumed full ownership and direction of the domaine in 1987 and, since that time, has built an entirely new facility while at the same time acquiring additional vineyard property. The domaine is now significantly larger in scope with 52 hectares of vineyards that cover multiple appellations. Most of the vineyards are situated in and around the commune of Chavanay which is just south of the town of Condrieu; obviously, the holdings in Cote Rotie extend north into Ampuis and the holdings the furthest south are in the village of Saint Péray. To control yields, Cuilleron does extensive debudding and, when necessary, practices a “green harvest”. In the cave, the grapes (harvested manually) are fermented using indigenous yeasts. An expressive and seductive wine, the nose evokes a basket of fruits such as apricot, quince, peach, and citrus. Hints of lilac, rose, and honey in the background add to the complexity of the aromatics. 100% Viognier, aged 9 months in barriques on the lees. 375 0 0 5 6 1 jpg 2 375 ml 2893 9 Cremant d'Alsace, Joseph Cattin 49.00 26 0 The forebears of the Cattin family came from Switzerland and settled in Alsace, and more specifically in the village of VoegtlinshoffenV, around 1720. The village is located about 10 km to the South of Colmar and had been known for its excellent wine since the Middle Ages. That encouraged the Cattin family to start growing grapes upon their arrival, in addition to other crops. Made according to the traditional Champagne method, Crémant Brut Cattin is a fine sparkling wine, dry and delicately fruity. This wine is made from hand picked Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay. 750 0 0 5 3 3 jpg 2 3281 9 Eyrie, Pinot Blanc, Dundee Hills 2014 55.00 124 0 In early 1965, 25-year old David Lett moved to Oregon with “3,000 grape cuttings and a theory.” He was particularly determined to prove that stylistically pure Pinot noir could be grown successfully outside of Burgundy. In February, David planted his cuttings to root in a rented nursery plot, and began his search for the perfect vineyard site. This was the first planting of Pinot noir and related varieties in the Willamette Valley, and the first Pinot gris in America. In 1966 David found his site, a 20-acre hillside in the Dundee Hills, about 30 miles SW of Portland. David and his new bride Diana named their fledgling vineyard for the red-tailed hawks who make their home in the fir trees at the top of the first plantings. In 1970, David and Diana produced their first vintage. The Eyrie Vineyards 1975 Pinot noir would become the first American Pinot noir to compete successfully with the renowned Pinot noirs of Burgundy (Paris, 1979; Beaune, 1980). 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 3 3248 9 Hermitage Blanc, "Chante Alouette," M. Chapoutier 2015 195.00 86 0 Hermitage wines possess a rich historical past. They were appreciated as early on as Roman times when they were enjoyed (as well as Côte Rotie wines) under the name of " Vienne wines "and were later to be called " Saint Christopher's hillside wines " because of a chapel there bearing the saint's name. They were also to be known of as " Tournon wines ". The name of Hermitage probably first appeared in the XVIIth Century in memory of Henry Gaspard, a knight from Stérimberg : who having come back from the Crusades (in the XIIIth Century) and tired of waging war, lived as a hermit on a hillside which had been given to him by Anne of Castille, Queen of Spain. There he planted a vineyard. Alexander Dumas as well as the Tsar Nicholas II are among the many connoisseurs of this particularly highly estimated wine. The grapes producing this wine come from three different vineyards: “Le Méal”: this is an old fluvioglacial alluvial deposit soil with numerous shingles. “Les Murets”: soils consist of granitic arena and alluvial deposits of same nature. “Chante-Alouette”: it is set on loess soil with a fine layer of clay and limestone. 100% Marsanne. 750 0 0 5 6 1 jpg 2 3432 9 I Clivi, Ribolla Gialla, Delle Venezie 2016 55.00 62 0 The wines of i Clivi are born in Friuli in between the Collio Goriziano and the eastern hills of Udine, named Colli Orientali, where, on sunny slopes – clivi meaning “slopes” – they cultivate 12 hectares of certified organic vineyards planted with the indigenous varieties Ribolla, Friulano, Verduzzo and Malvasia, whose only international grape is Merlot, a variety which found home in this area more than a century ago. 750 0 0 8 34 1 jpg 1 3532 9 Muscadet Sèvre & Maine sur Lie, Julien Braud 2017 50.00 98 0 Julien Braud hails from the small village of Monnières in the Sèvre et Maine appellation. Today he owns just over seven hectares, with only around five hectares going into his production. He began his winemaking career at his family’s estate, domain Fief aux Dames, where he worked through the 2011 vintage. In 2012, he ventured out on his own when he took over three hectares from his parents. His vision was to work in a way that highlighted the individual terroirs of the region and the heights to which Melon de Bourgogne could be taken. At the young age of 29 years old, Julien is one of only a handful of the next generation of winemakers in the region. He is bucking the trend in the area, which in recent years has seen a decline in producers and Melon de Bourgogne vineyards given the challenges of making a living selling Muscadet. He remains undeterred! Julien works entirely organically and is recently fully certified. He also incorporates biodynamic approaches. He uses horses in his vineyards to minimize soil compaction, hand harvests, uses only natural yeasts for fermentation after a gentle press, and ages the wines on their lees in glass-lined, underground cement vats. A truly quality-minded approach that has resulted in wines of complexity, texture and balance. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 4 2899 9 Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene, Carpenè Malvolti 13.00 44 0 Carpenè Malvolti was founded in 1868. Antonio Carpenè was known for his studies in the application of biology to winemaking, and published many essays on the subject. The estate remains in the family, and is currently run by the fourth generation of winemakers. This wine is fruity and aromatic, with a light touch of sweetness on the finish. 187 1 0 12.00 8 10 3 jpg 56 187 ml 3431 9 Bodegas Toro Albalá, Montilla-Moriles Don PX Gran Reserva Sherry 1988 84.00 947 0 Founded in 1844, occupying Aguilar de la Frontera's former power station in 1922. In 1970 Toro Albalá was the first Montilla producer to commercialize bottled dessert Pedro Ximénez and remains the world's only specialist in 100% Vintage PX. Impeccable and authentic Fino, Amontillado and Oloroso containing only the natural alcohol from fermentation are produced by the classic solera method. Select lots of Pedro Ximénez are destined for oak barrels, sealed and left for decades in single-vintage state. After a minimum of 25 years, vintages are selected for release only when they have attained classic character. Opaque, black mahogany color with a caramel-like bite. "Heady, enticing treacly nose, notes of molasses, dried banana, coffee, figs and walnuts. Immensely concentrated palate, buttery toffee, spice, aniseed and refreshing acidity on leafy long finish." 95 Points, Gold Award Decanter, World Wine Awards, May 25, 2017 375 0 0 14.00 6 36 4 jpg 2 375 ml 3498 9 Pinot Blanc, Robert Sisnkey, Los Carneros 2014 50.00 112 0 When you plant the right scion in the proper spot, you end up with great fruit that requires less in the cellar to make a superlatively delicious wine.RSV has planted Pinot Blanc in three of their CCOF certified Carneros vineyards. The selections mature slowly in the cool Carneros growing region, developing flavor as they mature in the long season. The fruit is night harvested by hand when it achieves optimal ripeness and allowed a long, cool fermentation on its native yeast in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine is then allowed to rest on its lees for added complexity and bottled in a small “drink it yourself” starter size of 375ml or the “communal” party size of 1.5L. A seriously pure wine that may very well be the greatest example of Pinot Blanc in existence. Sounds boisterous but this wine is delicious in its purity. Planted in three of RSV’s prime Carneros vineyards, the wine achieves optimal ripeness while maintaining a vibrant structure and refreshing mouthfeel.This Pinot Blanc initially impresses with high aromatic notes of white flower, lemon peel, almond, pear and green melon backed by a nutty, leesy richness and firm minerality. A succulent roundness on the mid-palate provides contrast while a kiss of salinity adds savoriness. The wine has an expectedly youthful tightness that guarantees it will continue to evolve for some time to come. The mouthwatering finish lingers long after the wine is gone and will have you coming back for more. 375 0 0 1 28 1 jpg 2 375 ml 2956 9 Sylvaner de Mittelbergheim, "Réserve," Albert Seltz 2016 45.00 167 1 Albert Seltz is situated in the heart of Mittelbergheim in the Bas-Rhin ofAlsace. Albert Seltz, the 14th generation owner and winemaker, took over from his father in 1980 when he was only 19 years old. At that time, Albert had already developed a sense of the potential of his estate and a passion for the variety of Sylvaner. Immediately, he reduced the production by two thirds, reduced the yields, and converted to strictly sustainable organic agricultural practices. In the cellar he practices minimal intervention, employing indigenous yeast and sur lie aging. In Alsace and beyond, Albert is known for his love of Sylvaner, so much so that he was instrumental in the national institute of Appellation d’Origine’s decision to allow a Grand Cru Zotzenberg Sylvaner. 750 0 0 5 3 1 jpg 4 3282 9 Tokaji Aszu, "Red Label," 5 Puttonyos, Royal Tokaji 2013 120.00 924 0 The Royal Tokaji Wine Company, founded in Hungary in 1990, has become one of the most defining wineries in Tokaj. From the outset, Royal Tokaji decided to concentrate on producing single-vineyard wines, made from the first growth vineyards of Mézes Mály, Nyulászó, Szt. Tamás and Betsek. Acknowledged as one of the region's top winemakers, combining traditional techniques with modern technology to create the award-winning Royal Tokaji range of wines. Royal Tokaji is the acknowledged leader of the renaissance of this legendary Hungarian wine, which, in the words of the wine author and company co-founder Hugh Johnson, is "a wine that would make angels sing out loud in praise". 500 0 0 14.00 10 44 4 jpg 5 500 ml 2919 9 Gewürztraminer, Trimbach 2015 68.00 180 0 The viticultural origin of the Trimbach Family dates back to 1626. For almost four centuries, the Trimbach Family has been promoting Alsace and its History, its exceptional terroirs and fine wines. Today, the family vineyard is led by Hubert Trimbach, nephews John and Peter, and his daughter Anne, the eldest of the 13th generation. 750 0 0 5 3 1 jpg 3 3055 9 Pinot Blanc, Trimbach 2016 38.00 138 0 The viticultural origin of the Trimbach Family dates back to 1626. For almost four centuries, the Trimbach Family has been promoting Alsace and its History, its exceptional terroirs and fine wines. Today, the family vineyard is led by Hubert Trimbach, nephews John and Peter, and his daughter Anne, the eldest of the 13th generation. 750 0 0 5 3 1 jpg 2 3375 9 Wind Gap Trousseau Gris. "Fannuchi-Wood Vineyard," Russian River Valley 2016 65.00 94 0 Named after the forces of nature that shape the wines, Pamela & Pax Mahle established Wind Gap Wines in 2006 with a tiny release that included a wild skin-fermented Pinot Gris, a savory Sonoma Coast Syrah and a zesty coastal Chardonnay that drinks beautifully to this day. Seeking out vineyard sites impacted by coastal wind gaps, the focus is to bottle classically styled wines. Sites Wind gaps are breaks in coastal ridgelines that draw fog and cool ocean air inland. California features six such wind gaps, hosting a variety of coastal vineyard sites. These sites are ideal for producing provocative wines that are focused and fresh, with low alcohol content and high drinkability. Much of their fruit is sourced from the Sonoma Coast and Petaluma Wind Gap, as well as vineyards all along the coast of California. Process All the wines are foot-stomped and fermented using natural yeasts. Foot crushing is an imperfect process that contributes complexity and depth of flavor, while ensuring that their whole-cluster fermentations are crushed gently while keeping the stems intact. They allow for the natural yeasts that ride in from each vineyard site on the skin of the grapes and that fly around our winery to ferment our wines. Most likely each vineyard has it’s own diverse yeast populations, resulting in a complex cocktail of yeast varieties. Bright, fresh, and clean, with crisp fruits, pronounced floral aromatics, and exotic spices, that keep this unique white in focus. Smashable and delicious it struts its Savoie roots while retaining all the bright California fruit that we would expect from this Russian River site. 750 0 0 1 29 1 jpg 1 3319 9 Pinot Blanc, Wittmann, "100 Hills," Rheinhessen 2016 38.00 146 0 The Wittmann family has been growing grapes and producing wine in the small Rheinhessen village of Westhofen since 1663. Today, the estate cultivates 62 acres of vines in the rolling limestone hills found in the southern part of the region, just west of the Rhine river valley. They have been pioneers in developing the fullbodied, well-balanced style of dry wines for which the region has become known. They were early adopters of organic and biodynamic viticulture. 750 0 0 7 23 1 jpg 2 3217 43 Gruner Veltliner "Grand Gru," Kamptal Reserve, Steininger 2016 75.00 96 0 This family run winery is situated in the postcard perfect Austrian village, Langenlois, deep in the beautiful Kamptal Valley, Austria. This region is one of the most prestigious in Europe for rich and savoury Grüner Veltliner and, luckily, it is the speciality wine of this 25 hectare estate. Karl Steininger’s family tree has a winemaker on almost every branch. This family history is a badge of honour for many great winemakers, including Karl, and it is what drives him on to ensure his wines are the best possible representation of their land. 750 0 0 11 43 1 jpg 2 3523 43 Gruner Veltliner, Sohm & Kracher, "Lion," Niederösterreich 2018 50.00 120 0 Aldo Sohm and Gerhard Kracher, two Austrians, first met in New York, in 2004. Their friendship was cemented over a shared devotion to great food and wine. It wasn’t long before they realized this love extended to the dry grüner veltliners of their homeland — and a desire to make them. A few years later, at a tasting, Aldo had an epiphany when he was asked by several winemakers to critique their wines: “I found myself thinking: I have never made wine! Who am I to criticize it?” Over a long lunch later that year, the Sohm & Kracher project was born. Given the strength of the partnership and shared vision, Aldo and Gerhard had little trouble honing their concept: grüner veltliner grown in the Weinviertel — a region they recognized as underestimated, given its old vineyards, diverse soils, and unique microclimate — and made in accordance with two basic principles: the wines should be (low to) moderate in alcohol and should never be unctuous in character. Since their first vintage in 2009 they have kept a sharp focus on grüner veltliner, even as they have widened the scope of exploration across sites and styles — from the brisk, peppery “Lion” to the Chablis-like “St. Georg.” They now work with several crus in the Weinviertel and one pure limestone parcel in the village of St. Georgen, Burgenland, almost directly across the Neusiedlersee from the Kracher family winery in Illmitz. This wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation, as do all the wines. It is the only wine in the line-up that fully ferments in stainless steel where it spends one year on its fine lees. It is a crisp, fresh, aperitif-style grüner that is salty and easy to drink. 750 0 0 11 43 1 jpg 3 2843 43 Grüner Veltliner, "T26," Wachau - Federspiel, Tegernseerhof 2017 60.00 126 0 The Mittelbach family‘s Tegernseerhof, located in Unterloiben, just below Dürnstein, boasts a tradition dating back to the year 1002. The original facilities were built in 1176 by the Benedictine community of the Tegernsee Abbey. For centuries, the abbey was where the Bavarian monastery produced its wine. At the turn of the 19th century, it was acquired by the Austrian Empire and later, it went into private ownership. Franz Mittelbach and his wife, Mathilde, are the fifth generation of Tegernseerhof owners. Since the 1970s, they have been continuously running the Tegernseerhof as a family business. Today, Martin Mittelbach, the son of Franz and Mathilde, is the current part of this history. The vineyard is called Frauenweingarten. The name T 26 comes from the fact that when this wine was first made in 2006, it was in tank number 26. This Grüner Veltliner is aromatic and full of round fruit balanced with crisp acidity. The distinct soil lends a pleasant mineral and the tropical fruit play is balanced with the white pepper note typical of this varietal. 750 1 0 15.00 11 43 1 jpg 19 3513 44 "Eroica," Chateau Ste. Michelle - Ernst Loosen, Columbia Valley 2016 45.00 38 0 Eroica is a labor of love for two of the world's great Riesling producers, where old and new philosophies intermingle to create exceptional techniques. From the Old World, Dr. Loosen Estate of Germany, and from the New, Chateau Ste. Michelle of Washington state. Together, an extraordinary Riesling is crafted using Washington state grapes, since 1999. Inspired by Beethoven’s Third Symphony, the name Eroica reflects not only the variety and site, but also the wine's heritage. This shared history has been shaped from elegantly refined German inspiration and boldly developed from Washington roots. Eroica Riesling offers sweet lime and mandarin orange aromas with subtle mineral notes. The mouth-watering acidity is beautifully balanced by flavorful Washington Riesling fruit. To achieve our off-dry Eroica style we strive for bright fruit with crisp acidity and enhanced mineralilty. 750 0 0 1 33 1 jpg 3 3276 44 Dr. Loosen, Beerenauslese, Mosel 2013 42.00 964 0 The Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for over 200 years. When Ernst Loosen assumed ownership in 1988, he realized that he owned vines in some of Germany’s best-rated vineyards. To capture the true character of each vineyard’s terroir, he dramatically restricts crop size, uses only organic fertilization, insists on very strict fruit selection, and employs gentle cellar practices to allow the wines to develop their full potential with a minimum of handling. Beerenauslese (“berry select”) is a rich, honeyed dessert wine made from grapes that have been partially shriveled by the botrytis fungus, also known as “Noble Rot.” These extremely concentrated, moldy grapes are painstakingly separated from the unaffected fruit and vinified to make one of Germany’s most prized vinous treasures. This Beerenauslese, exclusively from estate-owned vineyards, has a juicy mouthful of ripe fruits with a finish that is long and satisfying, but never heavy. It is perfect as an aperitif, with rich foods like foie gras, or with creamy desserts featuring fresh fruits. 187 0 0 14.00 7 23 4 jpg 2 187 ml 3528 44 Riesling "Classique," Forge, Finger Lakes 2017 45.00 82 0 Winemaker Louis Barruol comes from a winemaking tradition of 14 generations. His family has been located at their historic property in the village of Gigondas in the Southern Rhone Valley of France since 1570. Louis grew up among the vines and took over the estate from his dad in 1992, proceeding to improve quality and grow a vigneron-negociant arm of the business. Chateau de St. Cosme is now regarded as the benchmark of wine quality in Gigondas. Meanwhile, Louis is at the helm of Forge Cellars in both winemaking and management, bringing an immense amount of practical experience and knowledge into every aspect of the project. Weighty for a Riesling, with a rounded feel and layers of creamed yellow apple, white peach and persimmon flavors. Delivers energy and cut throughout, with lemon pith, citrus oil and chamomile accents filling in. Shows length and range through the finish. — James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 750 0 0 1 37 1 jpg 4 3471 44 P.J. Valckenberg, Rheinhessen 2018 40.00 185 0 Valckenberg wines are the signature varietal line of the Valckenberg company, which was founded in 1786 by Peter Joseph Valckenberg. The headquarters is located in Worms and the majority of wines under the Valckenberg label come from their home region, Rheinhessen. Valckenberg is proud to provide the world with a good representation of popular German varietals like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, and Dornfelder. Every wine is produced and vinified by only one single quality producer of the region. To guarantee the best possible quality for the price, studied oenologists meticulously test and choose the best wines which will be bottled as “VALCKENBERG VARIETALS”. 750 1 0 10.00 7 23 1 jpg 30 3610 44 Dr. Loosen Erdener Treppchen, "Alte Reben," Grosses Gewächs 2017 120.00 209 1 This vineyard is so steep that, long ago, stone steps were built into the hillside to help workers reach the vines. The iron-infused, red slate soil produces wines that are muscular and complex, with an intense mineral finish. Wines from Erdener Treppchen are more like a powerful, hard-body rock climber than the graceful ballet dancer of Wehlener. 750 0 0 7 23 1 jpg 6 3254 44 Rielsing Grand Cru - Sommerburg, Boxler 2015 170.00 147 0 The small family domaine in France that works traditionally using techniques and savoir faire passed down across multiple generations is under serious threat today. Consolidation, technology, regulation, foreign investment, globalization, and many other factors (all in the name of progress), threaten the great agricultural tradition of winegrowing in France, arguably the world’s greatest winegrowing culture. Few domaines in France embody this way of life more ably and proudly than Domaine Albert Boxler in Niedermorschwihr. Jean Boxler, many generations removed from his ancestor of the same name that moved here from Switzerland in 1673, currently rules the roost at this humble yet incredibly exciting domaine. Intense and serious about his land, his craft, and his wine, Jean is the genius behind what are certainly some of the finest white wines in Alsace (and the world). Extremely complex and interesting aroma with flint, oranges, acacia and spices. The taste is very potent and big, and behind a youthful first impression there are layers of ripe, smooth fruit that is supported by a wonderful backbone of tart acids. 750 0 0 5 3 1 jpg 2 3216 44 Tegernseerhof Riesling "Terrassen" Federspiel, Wachau 2017 45.00 200 0 The Mittelbach family‘s Tegernseerhof, located in Unterloiben, just below Dürnstein, boasts a tradition dating back to the year 1002. The original facilities were built in 1176 by the Benedictine community of the Tegernsee Abbey. For centuries, the abbey was where the Bavarian monastery produced its wine. At the turn of the 19th century, it was acquired by the Austrian Empire and later, it went into private ownership. Franz Mittelbach and his wife, Mathilde, are the fifth generation of Tegernseerhof owners. Since the 1970s, they have been continuously running the Tegernseerhof as a family business. Today, Martin Mittelbach, the son of Franz and Mathilde, is the current part of this history. 750 0 0 11 43 1 jpg 3 2917 44 Riesling, Trimbach 2015 46.00 186 0 The viticultural origin of the Trimbach Family dates back to 1626. For almost four centuries, the Trimbach Family has been promoting Alsace and its History, its exceptional terroirs and fine wines. Today, the family vineyard is led by Hubert Trimbach, nephews John and Peter, and his daughter Anne, the eldest of the 13th generation. 750 0 0 5 3 1 jpg 2 3321 44 Riesling, Trimbach, "Cuvée Frédéric Emile," Alsace 2010 150.00 101 0 The viticultural origin of the Trimbach Family dates back to 1626. For almost four centuries, the Trimbach Family has been promoting Alsace and its History, its exceptional terroirs and fine wines. Today, the family vineyard is led by Hubert Trimbach, nephews Jean and Pierre, and his daughter Anne, the eldest of the 13th generation. Much enthusiasm and great ambitions that perpetuate tradition, the requirement and the know-how to bring wines to perfection. The south and south-east facing Ribeauvillé terroirs Geisberg and Osterberg which overlook the winery have been producing this wine for several generations. The average age of the vines, 45 years, results in limited yields. The marl-limestone-sandstone and fossil-flecked Muschelkalk composition of the soil, as well as the beautifully ripe grapes selected and harvested at the end of October lend this wine a remarkable personality: a dry and powerful Riesling, underlined by a mineral note and firm ripe acidity. This wine is named for Frédéric Emile who became famous for providing a new guarantee of quality and authenticity for Trimbach in 1898. 750 0 0 5 3 1 jpg 3 3414 44 Van Duzer, Norris-McKinley Vineyard, Ribbon Ridge 2016 50.00 70 0 The 2016 Norris McKinley Vineyard Riesling was sourced from an Estate vineyard located on the Ribbon Ridge AVA. Riesling is a fairly late ripening varietal that thrives on the warm site. Nested at a 400 feet elevation on a Sitton soil (a deep sandy loam soil), this Riesling received the optimal amount of heat to produce perfectly ripe grapes while still preserving a refreshing acidity. Tropical passionfruit, mango and lime along with floral notes of clover honey, jasmine and acacia blossom compose a sensual aromatic profile. On entry, an initial sweetness leads to a lifted yet structured mid-palate that lingers with notable minerality and crisp, balancing acidity on the finish. 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 1 3308 45 Barbaresco "Asili," Bruno Giacosa 2012 350.00 772 0 One of the legendary winemakers of the world, Bruno Giacosa crafted the most prestigious single-vineyard Barolo and Barbaresco wines during a career that spanned nearly eight decades. He joined the family business at the age of 15, representing the third generation of his Langhe winemaking family. Giacosa’s unfailing pursuit of perfection, his unrivaled palate and his intimate knowledge of vineyards in the Langhe quickly drew recognition and helped establish Piedmont as a leading wine region. In 1980, Giacosa began to acquire prime parcels in Serralunga d’Alba, La Morra and Barbaresco to produce wines that are rightly regarded as the finest expressions of Nebbiolo. His legacy rests with daughter Bruna, who continues to uphold her father’s winemaking philosophy to respect traditional techniques while using the best of modern technology. The goal is for each distinguished site to produce articulate, unique wines. The nose offers red fruit characters and aromas of roses and dried flowers. The palate presents good structure supported by excellent freshness. Tannins are present, but they are sweet and silky. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 6 3629 45 Barbaresco "Batù " Cantine Povero 2016 70.00 531 0 Four generations of Povero family wisdom unite to create a beautifully unstoppable force in the heart of Piedmont. Since 1837 the Povero family has inhabited the land in Cisterna d’Asti and, beginning with the first vine plantings in 1964, they have slowly and strategically purchased and cultivated vineyards in all three of the Roero, Langhe, and Monferrato appellations. Their 45 hectares of vineyards sit around 320 meters in elevation and bask in the direct northern Italian sun. Their prime location in Cisterna d’Asti affords them a unique versatility in producing an exciting range of wines. Cantine Povero is undoubtedly a family affair, currently managed by Alessio Povero, the third generation to run the estate, aided by siblings. Violet, rose petals, tobacco, and deep red fruits married to forest floor. Structured and tannic 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 6 3529 45 Barbaresco Riserva "Ovello," Produttori del Barbaresco 2014 160.00 678 0 The Produttori was founded in the crushing poverty of the 1950s, when the parish priest organized 19 struggling growers to make wine communally. With time, the Produttori grew to about sixty members—owning the lion’s share of the greatest vineyards. The Produttori’s nine crus or vineyards lie on steep slopes composed of the classic firm clay and limestone marl of the Langhe. Those from the northernmost chain of hills—Ovello, Montefico and Montestefano–have a higher clay content and are known for their rich earthy, meaty flavors, full body and firm structure. To the south are Pajé and Moccagatta, noted for their intensity and elegance. Still further south is perhaps Barbaresco’s greatest slope, boasting the southfacing Asili, Rabajà and Pora. Below these three icons is the solitary southwest-facing slope of Rio Sordo, whose opulent Barbaresco exudes aromas of black cherry and truffle. Ovello is the northernmost vineyard in the village of Barbaresco, higher on the sea level and dropping down to the river in a 300 feet, abrupt bluff. It is a relatively large area with a number of subzones with West and East exposure, all sharing a similar calcareous soils rich in clay. The extra clay and the cooler microclimate give the Ovello its exuberant and youthful quality in the fruit and its fuller body, which defines its distinctive personality. Explosive fruit on the palate and firm, sometime rough, tannins on the finish, these wines always bring a lot of joy to the palate and deliver powerful structure, that needs some years of bottle ageing to balance out. Domizio Cavazza had vineyards in Ovello (and Pora) when he started producing Barbaresco in 1894. It was also among the first 5 vineyards produced as single vineyard by Produttori in 1967. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 2 3589 45 Barbaresco Riserva "Pajé," Produttori del Barbaresco 2014 175.00 245 0 The Produttori was founded in the crushing poverty of the 1950s, when the parish priest organized 19 struggling growers to make wine communally. With time, the Produttori grew to about sixty members—owning the lion’s share of the greatest vineyards. The Produttori’s nine crus or vineyards lie on steep slopes composed of the classic firm clay and limestone marl of the Langhe. Those from the northernmost chain of hills—Ovello, Montefico and Montestefano–have a higher clay content and are known for their rich earthy, meaty flavors, full body and firm structure. To the south are Pajé and Moccagatta, noted for their intensity and elegance. Still further south is perhaps Barbaresco’s greatest slope, boasting the southfacing Asili, Rabajà and Pora. Below these three icons is the solitary southwest-facing slope of Rio Sordo, whose opulent Barbaresco exudes aromas of black cherry and truffle. “Beams of minerality and salinity cut through a core of dense, dark fruit in the 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Pajè. Deeply pitched and tannic, the 2014 is a super-classic, youthfully austere Barbaresco that is going to need time to be at its best. Readers should expect a firm, structured Barbaresco. The finish alone is striking. Crushed rocks, minerals, sage and lavender add nuance to this chiseled, finely sculpted Barbaresco. Readers who can find it should not hesitate.” Vinous Media Score: 96 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 5 3446 45 Barolo, "Bricco Luciani," Mauro Molino 2014 120.00 580 0 Mauro Molino, Matteo and Martina’s father, founded the estate. In 1973 Mauro graduated from enology school in Alba, and then followed that with five years of winemaking experience in Emilia Romagna. In 1979 after his father’s passing, he returned home to the family farm in La Morra and began consulting for local wineries while building up his own estate. 1982 was the first vintage from the famed family parcel in Conca dell’Annunziata, the conch-shaped parcel pictured above, and the rest is history. In 2003 Matteo joined the company and became a familiar face to our staff, and then in 2009, Matteo’s sister also joined the gang. Today they manage approximately 12 hectares of vineyards, 50% dedicated to Nebbiolo for Barolo, and the rest mostly Barbera, and Dolcetto. This estate practices sustainable viticulture. 100% Nebbiolo grown in calcareous, sandy soils. Maceration on the skins for 10 days in stainless steel, followed by a 20 day fermentation. The wine is aged for 18 months in Allier French oak barriques, and in the bottle for an additional 4 months before release. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 5 3581 45 Barolo "Bussia," Prunotto 2010 185.00 908 0 Barolo Bussia DOCG comes from the splendid amphitheater-shaped vineyard in the Bussia Monforte d’Alba area. This historic wine was produced for the first time at Prunotto as a single vineyard wine in 1961. The balance and complexity of the Nebbiolo grapes are enhanced by the vineyard’s varied south to southwest exposure and the traditional aging in large barrels. The Barolo Bussia, ruby red in color with garnet highlights, is luminous and vivid in color. The nose is complex and is characterized by floral notes and notes of red fruit. The palate is intense with a texture of sweet and silky tannins, while the finish and aftertaste are long and balanced. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 2 1404 45 Barolo, Damilano 2014 120.00 847 0 Founded in 1890 as a direct result of a marriage between Giacomo Damilano and a Borgogno, Damilano is one of the oldest Barolo brands, specialising in classic Langhe reds such as Barolo, Dolcetto d’Alba, and Barbera d’Alba. Just after the Second World War it began making and selling wine on its own. Wine Spectator - 88. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 31 2946 45 Barolo, Damilano 2013 55.00 271 0 Founded in 1890 as a direct result of a marriage between Giacomo Damilano and a Borgogno, Damilano is one of the oldest Barolo brands, specialising in classic Langhe reds such as Barolo, Dolcetto d’Alba, and Barbera d’Alba. Just after the Second World War it began making and selling wine on its own. 375 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 8 375 ml 3596 45 Barolo "Ravera," G.D. Vajra 2014 160.00 641 0 Ravera is the most important single vineyard in Comune di Novello, located on the south-west quadrant of the Barolo area. This site has a very complex underground where marls of Tortonian origin mixed with clays and sandstones of the Serravallian period. Our parcels are located in the most southern amphitheatre, between 320 and 340 meters asl. This is a terroir that delivers bright aromatics and unrestrained power. Ravera enjoyed all the protection offered by the amphitheater shape of its own hill, retaining more night heat that resulted in a velvety and rich wine. The wine is brooding on the nose, profound and tense. Palate has a wonderful width that reveals mineralty, wild berries and fruit stones with a noble and austere structure and a lingering, lenghtly finish. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 11 3450 45 Barolo, "Buon Padre," Viberti 2013 125.00 594 0 Viberti, located in the village of Barolo in the northern Italian region of Piedmont, was founded in the early 20th Century by Antonio Viberti, an innkeeper and restaurateur. Wine was produced from the estate vineyards exclusively for the patrons of the family restaurant, Trattoria al Buon Padre. Viberti’s 20 hectares of estate-owned vineyards are planted to Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Barbera, and Chardonnay. Located predominantly on the western facing slopes of the village of Barolo in the DOCG appellation, altitudes range from 400-500 meters above sea level. Viberti’s flagship Barolo is a blend of fruit from Viberti’s top vineyard sites. Buon Padre is a complex, full bodied wine that opens with notes of preserved fruit and spices, and is backed by nuances of earth, leather, and wild flowers. It is aged in tini for 36-40 months and is bottled unfiltered before further refining in bottle for 6 months. Approachable upon release, Viberti Buon Padre will only improve with time. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 5 3477 45 Borgogno, "No Name," Langhe Nebbiolo 2015 99.00 347 1 With the cellar founded in 1761, Giacomo Borgogno e Figli is among the oldest names associated with wine in the Langhe region. The legendary Borgogno Barolos are classics in the history of Italian wine, and the estate has an extensive library collection. This library has been meticulously safeguarded over the decades, even through the mid-20th century’s geo-political upheavals, precisely to allow the select Barolos to age 10 years or more in the cellar. Giacomo Borgogno e Figli remains committed to this practice and to providing wine drinkers the opportunity to enjoy well-aged Barolo. Borgogno "No Name" is a Barolo from the vineyard of Cannubi and the cru vineyards of Liste and Fossati. It was made by Borgogno, which has been making well-regarded wines in Piemonte since the 18th century. As the story goes, a spiteful consorzio told Borgogno that regardless of following all the rules that Barolo makers must follow, its wines were not typical and they would not be allowed to call it a Barolo. The wine that was denied its place of origin was later re-submitted and did receive the OK to carry the Barolo name. The owners of Borgogno were so angered by the bald-faced bureaucratic shenanigans that the winery declined the designation. It bottled the “No Name” wine under a much more general classification in protest and have made a No Name “Barolo” ever since. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 7 2662 45 Nebbiolo delle Langhe, Produttori del Barbaresco 2018 65.00 791 0 Prior to 1894, Nebbiolo grapes were sold to make Barolo wine or simply labeled "Nebbiolo di Barbaresco". But in 1894, Domizio Cavazza, headmaster of the Royal Enological School of Alba and a Barbaresco resident, created the first cooperative, the "Cantine Sociali", by gathering together nine Barbaresco vineyard owners to make wine in the local castle that he owned. The "Cantine Sociali" was forced to close in the 1920'S because of fascist economic rules. In 1958, the priest of the village of Barbaresco, recognizing that the only way the small properties could survive was by joining their efforts, gathered together nineteen small growers and founded the Produttori del Barbaresco. The Produttori del Barbaresco, founded in 1958, now has 56 members and 100 hectares (250 acres) of Nebbiolo vineyards in the Barbaresco appellation, which amounts to almost 1/6 of the vineyards of the area. Each family is in full control of its land, growing Nebbiolo grapes with centuries old skill and dedication. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 6 3603 46 Banfi, Stil Novo Governo all'Uso Toscano 2017 45.00 605 0 Stilnovo (new style) is the result of the Governo all’Uso Toscano method, a 14th century Tuscan technique based on the re-fermentation of the wine with partially dried grapes. The result is a smooth and fresh wine that is characterized by its richness and full body. An extremely pleasant fruity perfume of Maraschino cherries, mixed berry jam scents, and intense floral notes. Taste: Gentle and pleasant with balanced and well integrated tannins. The finish is savory and characterized by a unique fruity persistence 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 7 3372 46 Bolgheri Rosso, Michele Satta 2016 70.00 602 0 The first harvest of Michele Satta in Castagneto Carducci dates back to 1974, at Tringali Casanuova’s, as worker and student at the University of Agricultural Sciences. In 1991 he planted the first vineyard with the decision to produce a Bolgheri Rosso, PIASTRAIA, which is not only the expression of the vineyards of Bordeaux or the search of international taste, but a wine expressing a more Mediterranean viticulture and a more Italian tradition. Therefore Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese and Syrah, all grapes that somehow he knows and identifies with. For the passion of exploring new possibilities and the firm conviction that in every choice of viticulture a personal practical experience is needed, he also planted a small portion of Tempranillo, Grenache, Petit Verdot, Syrah and Teroldego clones. Today’s history is the beginning of the second generation, with a company organization which depends on family work where every gesture is born of a personal experience, passion and expertise and where the wine is seen as the wonderful discovery of a quality hidden in the earth, in the sky and in the heart. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 3 1625 46 Brunello, "Pian delle Vigne," Antinori 2013 175.00 709 0 The Antinori family has been involved in the production of wine for over six centuries, ever since, in 1385, Giovanni di Piero Antinori entered as a member, the “Arte Fiorentina”, the Winemakers’ Guild of the city of Florence. During this entire long period, thorough twenty six generations, the family has always directly managed this work with courageous and, at times, innovative decisions, but always maintaining, unaltered, a fundamental respect for tradition and for the territory in which they have operated. Today the firm is run by Marquis Piero Antinori with the support of his three daugthers, Albiera, Allegra, and Alessia, directly involved in the work of the house. Tradition, passion, and intuition have been the three driving principles which have led the Marquis Antinori firm to become a leader in Italian wine. The Tenuta Pian delle Vigne estate was purchased by the Antinori family in 1995. The name comes from a 19th century rail station on the property that is still in use. This wine is made from the best clones of the Sangiovese grape. A deep and brilliant ruby red in color, the 2010 Pian delle Vigne is characterized by complex and intense aromas: floral notes accompanied by fragrant sensations of wild cherries, raspberries, and citrus fruit, then followed by chocolate, toasted tobacco leaves, liquorice and, on the finish, a perceptible presence of plums, mint, and eucalyptus. Balanced and ample on the palate with full and intense flavors and texture, the wine is elegant and noble in the tactile sensations of its tannins and very mineral as well, a Brunello which promises significant expressive possibilities as it ages and develops over time. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 9 2654 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Caparzo 2014 105.00 903 0 The name Caparzo derives from Ca 'Pazzo, as seen in several ancient maps. The vineyards, wineries and all the equipment were developed in the late sixties, with progressive adaptation and constant updating of both the land and in the cellars. They combine the ancient traditions of Tuscan winemaking with modern techniques to produce classic, well balanced Brunellos. Wine Spectator - 90. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 7 1750 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2014 125.00 615 0 The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Estate goes back to the seventeetn century. The oldest part of the estate is the Palazzo (palace), which was erected by Montalcino's Bishop, Fabius de Vecchis. Wine Spectator - 90. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 10 2561 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2014 68.00 837 0 The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Estate goes back to the seventeetn century. The oldest part of the estate is the Palazzo (palace), which was erected by Montalcino's Bishop, Fabius de Vecchis. 375 0 0 8 9 2 2 375 ml 3245 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Mastrojanni 2012 150.00 777 0 The wine estate Mastrojanni lies in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, in the south easternmost corner of Montalcino, in the Province of Siena. This is an area with a strong winemaking tradition and the homeland of Brunello. The inactive Mount Amiata lends great character to the Sangivese growing in this estate, as the soils are rich in gravel, clay, limestone and sandstone. The estate stretches over 90 hectares, 25 of which for vines, 14 for Brunello, with vineyards often over 35 years old. The height varies from 150 meters to 420 meters above sea level. The area enjoys exposure to all cardinal points, with more or less steep slopes. The average density is of 5,300 vines per hectare yielding below 5 tons per hectare. A September with big temperature swings yielded a complete grape that we transformed into a marvelously structured Brunello with great earthiness and minerality, the distinctive characteristics of Castelnuovo dell’Abate. Clear and intense ruby red with pale garnet highlights. Subtle vanilla blends with spices and a note of tobacco leaf. Entry on the palate is pervasive and leisurely with good length. There is a generous mid-palate and an intriguingly tangy finish. Pair with grilled meats and mature cheeses. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 4 3478 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Fanti 2012 140.00 563 0 The San Filippo Estate has belonged to the Fanti Family since the beginning of the eighteenth century. It extends over about 300 hectares, of which 52 are specialized vineyards, 110 are olive orchards, with over 8,500 olive trees, 80 hectares used for seed plots and 70 as forests. The area of vineyards has been developed in the amphitheatre of the south facing hills of Castelnuovo dell'Abate, at 350-430 meters above sea level. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 1 3604 46 Brunello di Montalcino, "Pieve Santa Restituta," Gaja 2014 185.00 514 0 With the 2005 vintage, for the first time in histroy, the Gaja family decided to produce a classic Brunello without single vineyard designation, blended from all 40 acres the family has planted throughout the enitre region. Pieve Santa Restituta's Brunello di Montalcino is now produced from a selection of estate-grown grapes from throughout the winery's four non-contiguous vineyards as well as 25 acres of southwest facing vineyards in Torrenieri, in northeastern Montalcino, acquired in 2006. The 2014 Brunello shows botanical notes and fresh fruity aromas of sage, rosemary, red currant and pomegrante, followed by complementary notes of clove and incense. On the palate, you immediately notice freshness and elegance. Stone fruits, such as pear and quince give way to a smooth, savory texture with vibrant acidity, silky tannins and long aftertaste. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 13 3237 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Terre Nere 2013 110.00 898 0 The Estate of Terre Nere Campigli Vallone was born from years of experience and mirrors the personality of our family and staff. Everything comes from the intuition and passion for rural traditions and values that owner Pasquale Vallone has had since his youth, elements that have brought about evolution in agriculture and specifically in viticulture. This passion stems from Pasquale’s earliest experiences in his family, who have always been dedicated to self-realization by working in, and with, nature. The Terre Nere estate stretches over 15 ha (37 acres) of property, at an elevation of 280 meters, South South-East, 10 km from Montalcino. 10 ha (25 acres) are planted in vines, in the hamlet of Castelnuovo dell’Abate, on the slopes leading up to the hilltop Castle of Velona. The vineyards are nestled in a setting of rare beauty, surrounded by pristine forests and a microclimate ideal for the cultivation of the vine. All the vineyards are in hilly areas and enjoy excellent sun exposure. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 14 3484 46 Brunello di Montalcino, Villa al Cortile (Piccini) 2014 90.00 439 0 In 1920, his son Mario continued its development by extending the company’s business across the domestic market in Italy. Piccini entered a second phase of rapid growth in the early 1960s, under the leadership of third-generation Pierangiolo Piccini. In 1983, Mario Piccini joined his father and helped make the U.S. market a priority, in a successful effort that strengthened the Piccini name. The Piccini winery is located in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone and possesses strong Tuscan traditions. Now in its 126th year of business, the Piccini winery torch has been passed down to the fourth generation of Piccini’s. New DOCG wines now complete the entire Tuscan portfolio including Chianti, Chianti Classico, Chianti Classico Riserva and a new Super Tuscan, Sasso al Poggio and Brunello di Montalcino. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 7 2951 46 Chianti Classico, Borgo Scopeto 2013 28.00 669 0 The first information we have on Scopeto, as a fortified rural settlement, dates back to the beginning of the year 1000, when the estate and surrounding agricultural land belonged to the episcopacy of Sienna. In the early fourteenth century, the Sozzini family, an old and illustrious Siennese dinasty, obtained the property from the Church, and it remained in their possession for more than five centuries without interruption. Under the new owners, the farm became a flourishing agricultural centre and was soon converted to vine-growing for wine. The Sozzini family, which kept the property until the mid-nineteenth century, developed a wine production of a certain importance but only in more recent times did Borgo Scopeto improve the quality and begin to bottle its own wines. It was with the 1990 vintage that a Chianti Classico with the Borgo Scopeto label first appeared on the market. 375 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 6 375 ml 3587 46 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, "Vigne di Montornello," Bibbiano 2015 90.00 472 0 Founded in 1865, Bibbiano is located in the historic Chianti region, in the municipality of Castellina in Chianti, overlooking the Elsa Valley towards the castle of Monteriggioni. Today’s owners, Tommaso and Federico Marrocchesi Marzi, are the fifth generation. Surrounded by vast olive groves consisting of over three thousand trees, Bibbiano’s vineyards cover an area of about 25 hectares, at an altitude ranging from 270 to 300 meters, with enviable exposure and excellent microclimate. The vineyards consist of plants of Sangiovese and Sangiovese Grosso grapes as well as a smaller quantity of Colorino. 100% Sangiovese 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 2 3444 46 Chianti Classico, "Lamole," I Fabbri 2017 65.00 759 0 Casole belongs to the Grassi family since 1600. The Grassi were winemakers, but also blacksmiths: they owned a workshop which was situated in the ancient village of Casole, exposed to small farms which were flanked for many years by agriculture. Here the name of this place and company originates. After some years in which the territory was abandoned, in 2000 Susanna and Maddalena Grassi founded I Fabbri. The return to the old property, empty but always so beautiful awoke Susanna’s will to reclaim all those values and all that love for the land that was always accompanied by her family. This wine is 100% Sangiovese. Red fruits predominate on the nose, with medium body and a refreshing acidity on the palate. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 5 3565 46 Chianti Classico "Gran Selezione Vigneto di Campolungo," Lamole 2015 85.00 465 0 Profoundly deep ruby red. Very ripe fruit aromas are backed up by classic gladiolus florality nuanced with balsam, mint, spiciness and sweet tobacco. Superb poise in the mouth, where structure, softness, acidity, extract and savouriness come together to perfection, leading into an aroma-rich finale that thrills to warm notes of ripe fruit lifted by fresh balsam. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 5 3595 46 Felsina Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia 2014 110.00 530 0 The Rancia vineyard takes its name from the historic Rancia farmhouse, once a Benedictine monastery. Located in Castelnuovo Berardenga at elevations ranging between 400 and 420 metres it has a fine southwest-facing exposure. The more recent plantings utilize genetic material from massal selections gathered from the old Rancia vineyard. The soil is composed of limestone-derived alberese classic to the Castelnuovo Berardenga area and of galestro marl in some areas. First vintage was 1983. Ruby red appearance with rich, intense tones. Spicy nose with floral notes and hints of wild berry (red and black), accompanied by mineral impressions and light toasted notes. Spice re-appears on the palate, which displays firm but supple tannins, and the finale is vigorous and taut. Overall, the wine is compelling for its flavour-rich mid-palate and supporting acidity. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 12 3397 46 La Mozza, "I Perazzi," Maremma Toscana 2017 52.00 857 0 I Perazzi, the foundation of the La Mozza winery, was created to be unlike most typical Sangiovese. The blend, which includes Mediterranean varieties, is more expressive and better demonstrates the potential of Maremma’s terroir. I Perazzi is named after the pear-like fruit that grow on the estate and are depicted on the label. Juicy dark fruit mingles with spice and licorice on the palate. The bright, ripe cherry and soft texture makes this a natural match with fresh Mediterranean flavors and dishes. 85% Sangiovese, 5% Syrah, 5% Alicante, 2% Colorino, 3% Ciliegiolo 750 1 0 13.00 8 9 2 jpg 30 3593 46 Sangiovese Toscana, "Il Nero di Casanova," La Spinetta 2014 60.00 554 0 The Rivetti family story begins in the 1890s, when Giovanni Rivetti, grandfather of the Theree Rivetti brothers, Carlo, Bruno and Giorgio, left Piedmont for Argentina. Like many Italians of that time, he dreamed of returning rich and a powerful man, perhaps even one day able to make a great wine in his homeland. He never did, though his son, Giuseppe did. Pin married Lidia, bought vineyards and began to make wine. In 1977 the family took up residence at La Spinetta in Castagnole Lanze. In 1995 they started to make their first Barbaresco, Gallina. In 1996 and 1997 the Barbarescos Starderi, Barbera d'Alba Gallina and Barbaresco Valeirano follow. In 2000 the family’s ambition of also making a Barolo became reality. The Rivettis acquired vineyards in Grinzane Cavour and built a state of the art cellar, Barolo Campè. Since 2003 visitors are welcomed to visit also Campè, outside the town of Grinzane Cavour. In 2001 LA SPINETTA expanded over the borders of Piedmont and acquired 65 hectares of vineyards in Tuscany, between Pisa and Volterra, to make three different 100% Sangiovese wines, as Sangiovese to La Spinetta is the true ambassador of the Tuscan terrain. Intense ruby redaromas of aromas of black fruits, violet and mintcompletely delicious, silky tannins and a fruity chewy finish, round and intense, lots of black cherry 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 7 3455 46 Rosso di Toscana, Montevertine 2015 150.00 607 0 Montevertine is situated in the heart of the Chianti district about halfway between Florence and Siena, specifically 3 kilometers or so south of Radda in Chianti. Documents attest to the fact that the hilltop hamlet of Montevertine was first inhabited in the 11th century as a rural defensive fortress. There are traces of the original construction on the site today. Sergio Manetti acquired Montevertine in 1967 as a vacation home for his family. Once there, Signor Manetti planted two hectares of vineyards and built a small cantina with the idea of producing some wine for family and friends. The first vintage produced and bottled under the supervision of Signor Manetti was 1971 and was received with great praise for its quality. Shortly thereafter, Signor Manetti abandoned his principal activity to devote himself to producing wine at his magnificent estate. Having recognized the importance of the Sangiovese grape, Signor Manetti crafted his wines with an almost exclusive reliance on that grape variety. By 1981, due to Signor Manetti’s refusal to incorporate Trebbiano into the Montevertine blend, Montevertine left the Chianti Classico consortium, thereby forgoing the Chianti Classico denomination. In time the consortium recognized the wisdom of Manetti’s stance but Montevertine remains outside the consortium, simply labeling its wines “Rosso di Toscana”. Because of these circumstances, Montevertine is frequently, but erroneously, included in the category of “super-Tuscan” wine. In fact, Montevertine’s policy of strict reliance on Sangiovese with a small complement of Colorino and Canaiolo is in direct contradiction to the approach of the “super-Tuscan” group of wines which purposely include non-local grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot in their blends. Despite the formal lack of the appellation, Montevertine is one of the rare examples of a true Chianti Classico. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 3 3564 46 Rosso di Montalcino, Il Poggione 2017 65.00 473 0 Il Poggione was one of the first wineries to market the Brunello di Montalcino wine as early as the 1900’s, and one of the founding members of the Brunello di Montalcino Consortium. After more than a Century, Founder Lavinio Franceschi’s work is still a fundamental point of reference for his successors, Leopoldo and Livia, who continue to develop the business with that same dedication and unrelenting passion, combining the ancient skills of winemaking crafts and tradition with the latest, most innovative techniques. This wine is a younger, more accessible version of the Brunello, but already with an excellent structure and a great personality, Rosso di Montalcino is a very important wine for Tenuta Il Poggione. Produced entirely from Sangiovese grapes, sourced in the estate's younger vineyards, Rosso di Montalcino is aged in large casks and barriques before a period of bottle aging. The wood aging, although not obligatory for the production of Rosso di Montalcino, tones down the tannins typical of a young Sangiovese and gives this red wine a complexity of aroma and structure that make it a great "Young Brunello". 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 7 2017 46 Rosso di Montepulciano, Corte Alla Flora 2016 38.00 793 0 Corte all Flora is a relatively new winery in Tuscany. They employ modern winemaking techniques, but with a respect for the centuries old traditions of the region. Their wines are made in a modern style, but are true to their place of origin, with the balance and elegance typical to traditional Tuscan wines. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 6 3056 46 Tenuta di Arceno, Chianti Classico Riserva, "Strada al Sasso" 2012 72.00 725 0 It is a subtle concert between rich Tuscan earth, lovingly cultivated vines and the interplay of light, air and moisture that together create the extraordinary wines of Tenuta di Arceno Estate. Small, focused vineyard blocks, ideal soils and exceptional sunlight help to produce wines that positively sing with the beauty of this magical place. A revered winemaking region for millennia, central Tuscany’s fabled Chianti Classico region is among the most beautiful places on earth and possesses soils that produce some of the world’s most extraordinary wines. Nestled in the rolling, verdant hills overlooking the city of Siena in the southwest corner of Classico, the legendary Tenuta Di Arceno Estate consists of more than 2,500 acres, only 210 of which are planted to vines. Arceno’s unique natural environment, which enjoys not only a warm climate but also receives breezes from the Adriatic Sea, affords the creation of this focused collection of wines that reflect the singular beauty of this region. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 2 2682 46 Tenuta Sette Ponti, "Crognolo," Toscana 2016 99.00 682 0 The Moretti Family began cultivating vines in 1957, and in 1996, Antonio Fioravant e Moretti decided to follow his passion of bottling his own wine. Crognolo was the first wine to be produced in 1998, followed by Oreno in 1999. Crognolo is named after a wild bush, Cornus, that grows abundantly on the estate. Made predominantly from Sangiovese, a traditional Tuscan variety, that produces elegant and age worthy wines, Crognolo brings together the class of Sangiovese with the complexity bestowed by aging in oak. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 4 2828 46 Antinori, "Tignanello," Toscana 2015 275.00 830 0 Tignanello is produced exclusively from the vineyard of the same name, a parcel of some 140 acres (57 hectares) with limestone-rich soils and a southwestern exposure at 1150-1325 feet (350-400 meters) above sea level at the Tignanello estate. It was the first Sangiovese wine to be aged in small oak barrels, the first modern red wine to use such non-traditional varieties as Cabernet in the blend, and among the first red wines from the Chianti Classico area to be produced without white grapes. The wine, originally called "Chianti Classico Riserva vigneto Tignanello" (a Chianti Classico Riserva from the Tignanello vineyard), was produced for the first time from a single vineyard parcel in 1970, when the blend contained 20% of Canaiolo and 5% of Trebbiano and Malvasia, both white grapes., and the wine aged in small oak barrels. In 1971 it became a Tuscan red table wine rather than a Chianti Classico, and was called Tignanello. In the 1975 vintage the percentage of white grapes was definitively eliminated from the blend. Ever since 1982, the blend has been the one currently used. Tignanello is bottled only in favorable vintages, and was not produced in 1972, 1973,1974, 1976, 1984, 1992, and 2002. An intense ruby red in color with purple highlights, the wine shows an intense nose of red fruit along with hints of sweet spices and underbrush. On the palate, the flavors are fresh and vibrant with supple and balanced tannins. The finish and aftertaste are long and sustained. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 1 3106 47 Dolcetto d'Alba, Giacomo Borgogno e Figli 2016 50.00 708 0 Representing the authentic, historic roots of Barolo, Borgogno feels like a museum of Barolo connecting 250 years of Barolo history to its future. This historic house prides itself as being a harbinger of the traditional style with one of the oldest wine cellars in Piedmont. Wines from this cellar have been acclaimed for centuries and were served for the official dinner celebration of the Italian Unification in 1861 and in 1886 in honor of Nicola II Romanov Czar of Russia’s official visit. After 1959, Cesare Borgogno started a new transformation program in the organization of the company that assumes the current name “Giacomo Borgogno & Figli”. Today, Giacomo Borgogno & Figli harmoniously combine tradition and innovation in order to continue their legacy of quality. Intense ruby red colour almost purple. Vinous, fresh and fruity in the nose, very pleasant fragrance. Dry and fragrant flavour with notes of almond. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 4 3112 47 Dolcetto d'Alba, Viberti Giovanni 2015 50.00 712 0 Viberti, located in the village of Barolo in the northern Italian region of Piedmont, was founded in the early 20th Century by Antonio Viberti, an innkeeper and restaurateur. Wine was produced from the estate vineyards exclusively for the patrons of the family restaurant, Trattoria al Buon Padre. Viberti’s 20 hectares of estate-owned vineyards are planted to Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Barbera, and Chardonnay. Located predominantly on the western facing slopes of the village of Barolo in the DOCG appellation, altitudes range from 400-500 meters above sea level. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 1 2854 48 Barbera d'Asti, "La Court - Nizza," Michele Chiarlo 2013 112.00 662 0 In the heart of "Nizza", in Castelnuovo Calcea is to be found the La Court estate. La Court is the name, in Piedmontese, of one of the estate's three farmhouses: two magical hills where the art Park "Orme su la Court" was born. Barbera "Nizza" La Court comes out only in the years that they feel are excellent. 750 0 0 0.00 8 10 2 jpg 4 2470 48 Barbera d' Alba "Tre Vigne," Vietti 2017 50.00 638 0 The history of the Vietti winery traces its roots back to the 19th Century. Only at the beginning of the 20th century, however, did the Vietti name become a winery offering its own wines in bottle. The grapes for this wine are selected from three vineyard sites located in Monforte, Castiglione Falletto,and Castiglione Tinella with 5,000 vines per hectare. The vineyards range in age from 35 to 40 years. Grapes are selected from the 3 top vineyards of Monforte, Castiglione Falletto and Castiglione Tinella. Th wine is a ruby-purple color with ripe red cherry aromas and vanilla. With hints of violets, the Barbera d'Alba Tre Vigne is slightly rounder in structure than the Barbera d'Asti. On the palate it shows bright acidity, soft tannins with good integration of oak, good complexity, and a lingering cherry finish. 750 0 0 8 10 2 jpg 4 3309 49 Elk Cove, Willamette Valley 2017 36.00 119 0 This Pinot Gris is hand-harvested from select hillside vineyards in the northern Willamete Valley. Pinot Gris has long been a focus at Elk Cove – their Estate Vineyard boasts some of the oldest Pinot Gris vines in Oregon, dating back to 1985. Three of their other estate vineyard sites are also planted with Pinot Gris, including 50 acres on steep sloped Mount Richmond Vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. Planted in a high-density format, all thier Pinot Gris undergoes shoot and crop thinning for low yields to maximize quality and concentration. 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 9 2190 49 Erath, Pinot Gris, Oregon 2017 36.00 118 0 Erath wines are an expression of the land that the winery has cultivated for more than 40 years, longer than any other winery in the Dundee Hills of Oregon. In 1976, Erath broke ground on the first winery in the Dundee Hills. Early successes, including the 1982 Pinot Noir vintage, inspired leading winemakers to move to Oregon to forge their own path in this special place. 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 5 3510 49 Eyrie, Dundee Hills - Willamette Valley 2017 45.00 244 0 In January 1965, after earning a degree in viticulture and enology from UC/Davis, and research in Europe, 25-year old David Lett moved to Oregon “with 3,000 grape cuttings and a theory”. He planted the cuttings in a rented nursery plot, and went looking for the perfect vineyard site. It was the first planting of Pinot noir, Chardonnay, and related varieties in the Willamette Valley, and the first Pinot gris in America. The Eyrie Vineyards, founded by David and Diana Lett in 1966, is located in the Red Hills of Dundee, about 30 miles SW of Portland. It was named for the red-tailed hawks who make their home (EYE-ree) in the fir trees at the top of the first vineyard plantings. The winery is in nearby McMinnville. In 1975, The Eyrie Vineyards produced the first American Pinot noir to compete successfully with the renowned Pinot noirs of Burgundy. (Paris, 1979; Beaune, 1980). Total annual production is around 10,000 cases. All wines are estate-grown and produced. In addition to handcrafted Pinot noir, Pinot gris and Chardonnay, the Eyrie Vineyards also makes limited bottlings of Pinot blanc, Pinot Meunier and Muscat Ottonel. In 2005, Jason Lett took over from his father as winemaker and vineyard manager at The Eyrie Vineyards, and continues his family’s pioneering legacy. 750 0 0 1 32 1 jpg 4 2718 49 Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, Abbazia di Novacella 2017 50.00 49 0 Abbazia di Novacella, located at 1,800 feet above sea level in the Isarco Valley of the Alto Adige region, is Italy’s northernmost winery, specializing in cool-climate white wines, many of which are made from grapes of Germanic origin. The Abbey was founded in 1142 by the Augustinian order of monks. Unlike other orders, such as the Benedictines, Augustinian monks are a ’working’ more than a contemplative order, without the required vows of silence. The reigning Abbot is always in charge of Abbazia di Novacella. 750 0 0 8 14 1 jpg 6 3300 49 Pinot Grigio, Alois Lageder, Alto Adige 2018 42.00 172 0 The most noble grape varieties grown in the best vineyard sites will never produce great wines without the efforts of human beings who recognize their potential, who give them the care and protection they need, and who are able to harvest them with acumen and expertise. At the Alois Lageder wineries, owned and managed by the Lageder family for six generations, this element of human commitment has both a past and a future Brilliant straw yellow with a green shimmer. Quite pronounced and expressive aroma with flowery and somewhat spicy notes. Rich flavoured in the mouth, with a slight smokiness at the back and a good, fresh finish. 750 0 0 8 14 1 jpg 5 3301 49 Pinot Grigio, Alois Lageder, Alto Adige 2018 22.00 190 0 The most noble grape varieties grown in the best vineyard sites will never produce great wines without the efforts of human beings who recognize their potential, who give them the care and protection they need, and who are able to harvest them with acumen and expertise. At the Alois Lageder wineries, owned and managed by the Lageder family for six generations, this element of human commitment has both a past and a future Brilliant straw yellow with a green shimmer. Quite pronounced and expressive aroma with flowery and somewhat spicy notes. Rich flavoured in the mouth, with a slight smokiness at the back and a good, fresh finish. 375 0 0 8 14 1 jpg 4 375 ml 97 49 Pinot Grigio, Santa Margherita, Alto Adige 2018 55.00 173 0 Santa Margherita was founded in 1935 by Count Gaetano Marzotto Jr. who, at the time, was running the family’s Vicenza-based textile group, which was started up at the beginning of the 19th century by his grandfather, Luigi. His aim was a very specific one: to succeed in creating an innovative agricultural hub that would break the traditional mould of the time and represent a source of modernity and growth. 750 0 0 8 14 1 jpg 7 3627 49 Pinot Grigio, Tiefenbrunner, Vigneti delle Dolomiti 2018 40.00 174 0 Founded in 1848, the Tiefenbrunner Castel Turmhof Winery owes its name to the ancient castle known today as the home of the Tiefenbrunner family. The winery is in the hamlet Entiklar, in the town of Kurtatsch, which is in the South Tyrolean province of Bozen amid the awe-inspiring Italian Alps. Tiefenbrunner produces over 20 types of quality wines, and each bottle receives the attentive care of expert winemaker and owner, Christof Tiefenbrunner. Many international awards testify to the quality that results from their generations of experience, with the flagship of Tiefenbrunner being the Müller-Thurgau “Feldmarschall.” Tiefenbrunner’s vineyards are located along the enchanting Südtyroler Weinstrasse, the Wine Route of South Tyrol, in one of the most beautiful wine-growing areas in Alto Adige. The vines are grown mainly on the mountain slopes around the Turmhof Castle, with other vines located in the flatter areas of the valley. The primarily southward-facing slopes and their loamy, chalk-rich soils represent the best environment for producing high-quality wines. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by moderate rainfall and cooling evening winds, allows for a substantial difference between day and night temperatures, providing ideal conditions for the perfect ripening of the grapes. Rich in extracts and potent in aroma, the grapes are turned into wines of unmistakable character.; at 3280 feet above sea level, it is the highest vineyard in Europe. 750 1 0 10.00 8 14 1 jpg 100 1986 50 Acústic Celler, "Acústic - Vinyes Velles Nobles," Monsant 2013 50.00 880 0 This wine comes from the region of Monsant, which is in close proximity to the better known Priorat region. It is a blend of Grenache ("Garnatxa" in the Catalán Language) and Carignane (Samsó). 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 3 3316 50 Betz, "Bésoleil," Columbia Valley 2014 115.00 454 0 Winemaker Bob Betz is the founder, patriarch and guiding light of Betz Family Winery. His pursuit of winemaking began in the early 1970's when he and his wife Cathy criss-crossed European vineyards to better understand the why and how of crafting fine wine. His philosophy is pretty simple: focus on what the vineyards have provided. Start with the highest quality fruit you can, treat it vigorously when necessary, gently most of the time, and stay out of its way but watch it closely. Allow the wines to develop slowly, and make sure they provide exceptional pleasure. Bob holds the degree of Master of Wine (MW), a designation awarded by the Institute of Masters of Wine in London. With a pass rate of about 12% it's a grueling process that's well worth the effort. 33 % Grenache, 24% Counoise, 20% Syrah, 17% Cinsault, 6% Mourvêdre 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 3 3293 50 Bonny Doon "Le Cigare Volant," Central Coast 2012 75.00 779 0 While Bonny Doon Vineyard began with the (in retrospect) foolish attempt to replicate Burgundy in California, Randall Grahm realized early on that he would have far more success creating more distinctive and original wines working with Rhône varieties in the Central Coast of California. The key learning here (achieved somewhat accidentally but fortuitously) was that in a warm, Mediterranean climate, it is usually blended wines that are most successful. In 1986 Bonny Doon Vineyard released the inaugural vintage (1984) of Le Cigare Volant, an homage to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and this continues as the winery’s flagship/starship brand. "A beautiful wine-dark, mulberry color, and a first nose of dark, cool loamy earth with suggestions of raspberries, Damson plums and cherry/chocolate. On the palate, it is sleek and racy with a lively acidity, very soft tannins and great persistence. This is a wine from an extremely cool and elegant vintage, and by all experience, should be a great prospect for very long ageing and development." 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 4 3367 50 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Château de Beaucastel 2010 299.00 864 0 Chateauneuf Du Pape - Chateau De Beaucastel 2010 Rhone, France #8 Wine Spectator Top 100 Chateau de Beaucastel began in 1849 & the Perrin family, who still own the winery and make the wine, bought the estate in 1909. Beaucastel is one of only three estates to grow & vinify all 13 grape varietals allowed in the region. The area is famous for its cold, dry wind called the Mistral. The wind, which reaches speeds of over 55 mph, usually brings clear & sunny weather it. The drying affect of this wind and the well-drained rocky soil help to ripen the grapes of the region. The wind is such a part of the culture that their “Christmas Shepherd” is portrayed as holding his hat on his head against the wind. This has a tremendous core of crushed plum, linzer torte and blackberry confiture waiting in reserve. Ample singed cedar and mesquite, warm paving stone and black tea notes lurk in the background and glide through the finish. 96 score from The Wine Spectator 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 1 3494 50 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Château de Beaucastel 2016 99.00 573 0 Chateau de Beaucastel began in 1849 & the Perrin family, who still own the winery and make the wine, bought the estate in 1909. Beaucastel is one of only three estates to grow & vinify all 13 grape varietals allowed in the region. The area is famous for its cold, dry wind called the Mistral. The wind, which reaches speeds of over 55 mph, usually brings clear & sunny weather it. The drying affect of this wind and the well-drained rocky soil help to ripen the grapes of the region. The wind is such a part of the culture that their “Christmas Shepherd” is portrayed as holding his hat on his head against the wind. This has a tremendous core of crushed plum, linzer torte and blackberry confiture waiting in reserve. Ample singed cedar and mesquite, warm paving stone and black tea notes lurk in the background and glide through the finish. "This is a stunning Beaucastel. A classic! Has a superb array of fruit, ranging from red, through to blue, darker purple and black. Nuances of dark, stony minerals, spices, wild flowers and herbs. So fleshy. This has impeccable balance, super-silky tannins and an extraordinarily long finish. This has decades ahead of it. Drink or hold." James Suckling, Note : 99/100, 2018-08-27 375 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 12 375 ml 3556 50 Châteauneuf-du-Pape "Habeus Papam," Domaine Santa Duc 2015 125.00 251 0 A papal wine that draws its power and confidence from the soil of different vineyards situated in the north, east and the center of the appellation. Fine sands, red clay and sandstone, contribute to the overall picture, especially the vineyards called «Le Pradel» and «La Font du Pape». The translation of the Provencal name of the latter location refers to relatively humid soils on which Syrah, or its ancestor, the Sérine, expresses with particular freshness. The traditional blending of different vineyards and historical grape varieties of the region, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Counoise, finds its raison d’être in the elegance and harmony of the wines it produces. Origin : Vineyard situated in several parts of Châteauneuf-du-Pape called «Les Saintes Vierges», «La Font du Pape» and «Le Pradel». On the label we honour Jean XXII. Native of Cahors, he was the first pope to choose Avignon as residence. As well, he planted the papal vineyards and ordered to build a new castle (château neuf) in the place that should become Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Varieties : 64% of old Grenache vines, 25 % Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 1% Counoise. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 3 3554 50 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine La Manarine 2015 110.00 620 0 Domaine la Manarine was created by Gilles Gasq in April 2001. The winery and majority of his vineyards are located within the commune of Travaillan, on a splendid plateau northeast of Orange in the southern Rhone. Gilles is a talented vigneron who has honed his skills working as an assistant to Paul Jeune, the proprietor of Domaine Monpertuis in Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Expanding his holdings each year, Domaine La Manarine now encompasses 33 hectares of vineyards situated largely on what is known as the “Le Plan de Dieu”. For generations, this specific terroir has been recognized as unique. Recent research has identified the particular character of the underlying soil: a deep layer consisting of more than 60% hard limestone “galets” (large smooth pebbles). 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 6 3606 50 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Vieux Télégraphe 2017 225.00 635 0 One cannot think of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the most celebrated cru of the southern Rhône, without thinking of Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe. The Brunier family is legendary in its own right, having been rooted to the enigmatic plateau known as La Crau for over one hundred years. The wines of Vieux Télégraphe evoke the concept of terroir in its purest form: they reflect their dramatic climate, the rough terrain that defines the soil, their full sun exposure at a higher altitude, the typicity of the varietals with an emphasis on Grenache, and of course, the influence of their caretakers, the Brunier family. For many, La Crau is Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s grandest cru. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 6 3102 50 Clos Pissarra, "El Ramon," Priorat 2010 80.00 809 0 The name Clos Pissarra is derived from the Catalan word for slate, as this is the soil that covers the regions of Montsant and Priorat, that lie about 85 miles southwest of Barcelona. Priorat has quickly established itself as the premier wine region in Spain producing wines of great intensity and concentration but yet remaining elegant and balanced. El Ramon (meaning the one known as Ramon in Catalan) refers to a 6 acre vineyard in the old mining town of Bellmunt in Priorat, owned by Ramon Marco who is our vineyard manager. This vineyard is planted to Grenache (Garnatxa), Carignan (Samso in Catalan) and Cabernet Sauvignon in even portions. It is a trellised and terraced vineyard, very steep, and the only thing you see on the ground is slate (locally known as licorella) as is typical in the region. Yields are typically less than a ton per acre. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 3 3302 50 Lupier Garnacha "El Terroir," Navarra 2010 80.00 888 0 Four years ago Enrique and Elisa started rescuing small plots of Grenache from very old vineyards. In total Domaines Lupier consists on twenty-seven “parcelles” located in Atlantic climate, giving their Grenache finesse. After many years’ experience in the wine sector and convinced that the making of a great wine takes place in the vineyard, Elisa and Enrique searched around and examined the terroirs in various areas until they found what they were looking for: black Garnacha old vines at different soils, orientations and altitudes – between 400 and 750 metres above sea level in north of Spain. In all, 27 treasures, some of planted since 1903, which made possible to obtain the “savage” expression of Grenache, expressing its specific terroir. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 4 3623 50 Mon P'tit Pithon Red, Olivier Pithon, IGP Côtes Catalanes 2017 60.00 519 0 This exciting 9-hectare domaine is situated adjacent to the great Domaine Gauby in the village of Calce in the Roussillon region of the Languedoc. Olivier Pithon is orginally from a wine making family from Anjou in the Loire and after spending some time in Bordeaux decided to settle in Calce in 2000 after being introduced to Gerard Gauby by his brother, Jo, a wine maker from Layon. The vines are grown strictly according to biodynamic principles and they are superb – elegant, complex reds; delicate, floral whites. Olivier has one main driving force for his work. “I’ve had only one desire: to give everything to my vines so that then they give it back in their grapes and in my wine. You must be proud and put your guts, your sweat, your love, your desires, your joy and your dreams into your wine.” This is the spirit along with the unique terroir of Domain Olivier Pithon that give his wines their quality and uniqueness. 750 0 0 5 7 2 jpg 4 2406 50 Black Slate, "La Vilella Alta," Priorat 2015 55.00 860 0 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. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 5 1811 50 Alvaro Palacios, "Les Terrasses Velles Vinyes," Priorat 2016 110.00 270 0 One of nine children born to the owners of Rioja’s respected Palacios Remondo, Alvaro studied enology in Bordeaux, while working under Jean-Pierre Moueix at Ch. Pétrus. He credits his tenure at Pétrus for much of his winemaking philosophy and for showing him “the importance of great wines.” Alvaro could have returned to the security of his family’s domaine. But instead, he was drawn to the remote and seductive Priorat, 60 miles from Barcelona, which had been one of Spain’s important pre-Phylloxera wine regions. With its unique terroir of steep hills and terraces Alvaro believed that here he could make a wine that evoked both Pétrus and Grange. He acquired his first vineyard, Finca Dofí, in 1990. Then, in 1993, he located what is now regarded as the crown jewel property in Priorat, a precipitous, northeast-facing Garnacha vineyard on well-drained schist that had been planted between 1900 and 1940. Alvaro named it for a small chapel, or hermitage, that sits atop the hill. While originally conceived of as a value wine, Les Terrasses “Velles Vignes” has slowly evolved into the essence of what makes Priorat special. Drawing on 15+ years of study, Terrasses is sourced from many of the region’s steepest and oldest vineyards—many of them north—facing to avoid the intense afternoon sun. With the 2007 vintage, Alvaro acknowledged Les Terrasses’ “graduation” by adding the “Velles Vignes” designation to the label. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 6 3278 50 Priorat, "Prior," Scala Dei 2014 50.00 825 0 This remarkable winery dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by some of the most distinctive winemaking geography in Spain. Scala Dei (Latin for "Ladder of God") produces wines of exceptional complexity and depth, which are among the most critically acclaimed from Priorat, one of Spain's smallest and most recognized DOs. In 2000, Grupo Codorniu assumed the management of Scala Dei's vineyards and winery, employing modern techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. With 100% of tis grapes from its estate owned vineyards, Scala Dei has been at the forefront of a movement away from the region's traditional, dark, intense and fairly alcoholic wines to a more balanced and elegant style of Priorat wines. A deep ruby red with garnet and bluish hues on the rim. Intense lingering aromas of red and black fruit, wild strawberries, blackberries, floral notes of violet intermingled with subtle spicy and toasty hints. This wine is full bodied with finesse and a silky midpalate. Ripe and elegant tannins are overlain with mineral aromas from the limestone soil. 55% GarnachaTinta, 15% Cariñena, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 2 1768 50 Val Llach, "Embruix," Priorat 2014 50.00 808 0 Focussing on quality over quantity, Celler Vall Llach has firmly embraced a small-is beautiful ethos of microproduction for its vineyards and "trossos". Consistent with this philosophy, the celler has imposed a ceiling on production and growth in order never to lose the personal and thorough supervision exerted over each stage of the process of wine making. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 4 2989 50 Ventoux, "La Jeannette," Etienne Gonnet 2012 40.00 856 0 There have been vines since Roman times at this magnificent family Domaine which was developed in 1950 by Etienne Gonnet – the one time mayor of the village of Bédarrides and father of current owners Jean and Michel Gonnet. For over 30 years, Jean and Michel have overseen operations, constantly improving their winemaking methods to develop full-bodied, concentrated wines that express their terroir perfectly. Today, their sons Guillaume and Bertrand bring their own skills and international experience to the Domaine. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 2 3441 50 "Whispering Angel," Cave d'Esclans, Côtes de Provence 2018 48.00 175 0 As a negociant and vinificateur (winery), Caves d’esclans identifies vineyards, grapes and wines from château d’esclans as well as local growers to make what has reputedly become the world’s greatest rosé. As our objective is to obtain the best quality grapes and wines, we have created relationships with the local grape growers, committed beside Caves d’esclans, whose vineyards are treated with the same high standards of quality as are the vineyards of Château d’esclans 750 1 0 12.00 5 35 5 jpg 40 3058 51 Dehesa La Granja, Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León 2008 50.00 811 0 One hundred percent Tempranillo from the Pesquera clones planted in 1998. Purity of fruit accompanies concentrated texture and weight, with excellent balance and expression enhanced by two years in bottle prior to release 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 5 3514 51 Rioja, Finca Allende 2011 65.00 608 0 Situated in La Rioja Alta, on a hill that stands 80 metres above the surrounding countryside, Briones appears silhouetted against the sky, so reflecting the importance of the terroir on which it was built, the importance of a terroir that allows us to get closer to heaven. Since 1986, when Miguel Ángel de Gregorio discovered the excellent qualities of this land, the interaction between the two, between man and land, between intelligence and potential, has enabled us to give our wines a unique personality of the very highest level. Intense cherry colour with purple hints. On the nose, fruit sensations (blackberries, blueberries, black fruits) dominate the perfectly integrated tones conveyed by aging in wood barrels that provide sensations of cedar and tobacco. It is serious and lively on the mouth with power and a great balance; broad and flavoursome combining fruity freshness and the elegant structure of a wine that is suitable for aging. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 4 3536 51 LAN, "Edicion Limitada," Rioja 2015 140.00 389 0 Bodegas LAN is a relative newcomer to the Rioja scene, having been founded in 1972. The name “LAN” is an acronym for the three provinces that make up Rioja, Logroño, Alava, and Navarra. LAN produces some of the most consistent, value-driven examples of Rioja on the market, and is also is an established leader on the premium side. LAN’s iconic 72 hectare Viña Lanciano vineyard sits on a breathtaking natural meander along the Ebro river and is the basis for most of the company’s top bottlings. The spirit of experimentation and innovation permeates the culture at LAN, and winemaker María Barúa is continually pushing the limits and preconceptions people have of the region. This is one of LAN’s modern bottlings – If you are a fan of full-throttle, no-holds-barred, modern Rioja you want this. Sleek entry, layers of depth, plenty to get behind here. Varietal Composition: 82% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo, 8% Graciano 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 3 3511 51 Rioja Reserva, Muga 2015 80.00 447 0 This wine is ruby-red with glints of brick-red and a medium-high depth of colour. Dense legs which provide you with a sequence of patterns around the sides of the glass. Initially you can find notes of red fruit aromas such as blackberries and reminders of spices. This is all well balanced by smoked aromas from its time in wood which had received a light-to-medium toasting. A subtle vanilla pod aroma coming through with roast coffee nuances. A smooth, mellow attack, with tannins wrapping the sides of the mouth with hints of menthol. In the finish the interesting lingering persistence is worthy of note. Tempranillo 70%, garnacha 20%, mazuelo and graciano 10% 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 1 3380 51 Navarra Reserva, Bodeagas Ochoa 2010 65.00 812 0 Enormous respect for nature, hours of work on the land, years of experience, millions of trials, hundreds of triumphs, love for his family (and for wine, which is part of it), loyalty to tradition and up-to-the-minute, yet solid ideas on oenology. These are the pillars of Javier Ochoa’s success and they are expressed in everything he creates. Javier Ochoa’s six signature wines are among the best-known from the winery. Javier has poured into them all his experience, his love of the land, his regard for tradition and the vocation for innovation inculcated in him from childhood by his father. Javier is among the most prestigious oenologists in the land and he is confident that every wine that bears his signature is a perfect example of Bodegas Ochoa quality. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 4 3522 51 Quinta Sardonia, Sardón de Duero 2014 120.00 648 1 Quinta Sardonia is now part of the Terras Gauda winery group, but the project was initially designed and supervised by Peter Sisseck. In fact, the winery's technical manager, Jérôme Bougnaud, has worked with Peter for years and is a member of the Dominio de Pingus viticulture team. The link between Quinta Sardonia and the DO Ribera del Duero is very close, despite not being under its protection for purely administrative and political reasons at the time of its constitution, since Sardón del Duero, where the winery's vineyards are located, is located a few meters from the edge of this powerful appellation and is a town where historically there had always been vineyards. The project was born in 1998 and produced its first harvest in 2002. During 1999 and 2000, they planted new vineyards with the fine red varieties, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, petit verdot, malbec and cabernet franc. The work, both in the vineyard and in the winery, is governed by biodynamic methods, in order to achieve a good balance between soil, climate, vine and the environment. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 8 3594 51 Rioja, "Rayos Uva," Olivier Rivière 2018 50.00 603 0 With about 25 hectares of rented and owned vineyards in Rioja Alta, Rioja Baja, Rioja Alavesa and in up and coming DO of Arlanza, and splitting his time between his own wines and consulting with other producers, it would be a gross understatement to say that Olivier Rivière is a very busy man. Originally lured to Spain in 2004 by Telmo Rodriguez to convert his vineyards to biodynamics, Olivier came to appreciate the rich history of Rioja, and the diversity of its soils and grape varieties. In 2006 he started his own project and owing to the high cost of land in Rioja he traded his farming talents for access to grapes from the best sites he could locate. Coming from France, Olivier has an innate sense of terroir. Unlike many of his peers in Rioja, he bases his cuvées not on political boundaries or the length of barrel aging but on terroir. He believes in a quality hierarchy inspired by Burgundy with generic Appellation and Village wines at the base and Premier and Grand cru wines at the top. Rayos Uva is Olivier’s version of a Bourgongne Rouge sourced from fruit grown in the sandy, gravelly and alluvial soils of Rioja Baja. The blend is dependent on the vintage but usually includes Tempranillo, Graciano and Garnacha – percentages change each year to create a brightly fruity version of Rioja unmarked by oak. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 6 2839 51 Ribera del Duero, Conde de San Cristóbal 2011 55.00 737 0 Although located in the historic Ribera del Duero district, Conde de San Cristóbal is a relatively modern facility, which has been operating since 2006. This Ribera del Duero is made exclusively from estate grown Tinta Fina, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, with an average vine age of 15 to 30 years. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 9 3107 51 Rioja Reserva - Viña Alberdi, La Rioja Alta 2014 48.00 732 0 The story of Vina Alberdi began in 1890. Five families from Rioja and the Basque region who shared a passion for wine founded theWine Society of Rioja Alta (Sociedad Vinícola de La Rioja Alta). This wine is 100% Tempranillo from high-altitude, estate-owned vineyards in Rodezno and Labastida. The vineyards are located at an altitude of 500-600 metres above sea level, planted more than three decades ago in chalky-clay soils. Medium-depth, cherry red, with a clean, bright pink rim. Intense nose, ruled by fruity notes, forest strawberries and red berries enveloping a core of caramel, liquorice, vanilla and cocoa. Outstanding structure in the mouth. Well-balanced acidity, with fine, gentle tannins. Vibrant and lively aftertaste with an elegant acidity. 750 1 0 12.00 6 36 2 jpg 28 3387 51 Rioja Gran Reserva, Luberri 2011 125.00 500 0 Owned by Florentino Martínez Monje, Luberri is located in Elciego in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. Florentino farms 35 hectares of old vines located principally between the villages of Elciego and Laguardia. A farmer at heart, Florentino was the original winemaker at Artadi before establishing his own winery in 1992. He made a name for himself and his estate by resurrecting the traditional style of semi-carbonic maceration wine of Rioja Alavesa. All the plots are farmed with minimal treatment of the soils and vines. Individual vineyard sites are fermented and vinified separately. By keeping yields low (around 34 to 45 hectoliters per hectare) Florentino extracts grapes with great concentration and flavor. Today Florentino is joined by his son-in-law Carlos Yecora, who is concentrating his efforts in the cellar. Tasting Notes A veritable classic, this wine harkens back to the Gran Reserva styles of yesteryear. Dark and inviting, the aromas of violets and powerful black fruit elements show on the palate. This wine fits perfectly with classic Riojan cuisine such as Patatas a la Riojana and baby lamb. Grapes: 100% Tempranillo, Vine age: 80+ years, Vineyard: Las Salinas, north-facing slopes at 600m elevation, and Rehoyos, east-facing slopes at 460m. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 2 3072 51 Rioja Reserva, Señorío de P.Peciña 2013 75.00 272 1 Bodegas Hermanos Peciña S.L. was founded in 1992 by Pedro Peciña Crespo with his three children in a small winery in the center of San Vicente de la sonsierra, where only “cosechero” wine was elaborated. In 1997 the firm began a new phase, with the inauguration of the new bodega and the elaboration of white wines and aged red wines: Crianzas, Reservas, Gran Reservas. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 6 3376 51 Rioja Reserva, Marqués de Vargas 2014 70.00 622 0 In 1840, Don Felipe de la Mata, 8th Marquis of Vargas, decided to plant the first grapevines at the Hacienda Pradolagar. Since then, four generations of this family lineage have cultivated the vineyards on this estate. Don Pelayo de la Mata, Count of San Cristóbal, and his brother Don Francisco, 9th Marquis of Vargas, who was elected mayor of Logroño, kept the passion for the vines at Pradolagar alive. An especially prominent figure was Don Hilario de la Mata, 10th Marquis of Vargas and father of the current Marquis, as he was chairman of an important winery group and co-proprietor of another firm in the sector. Don Hilario, an enthusiast of the world of wine just like his predecessors, always dreamed of having a winery of his own and creating a wine with the family’s name. Sadly, he died while still very young and was unable to see his dream made reality. In 1989, Don Pelayo de la Mata, 11th Marquis of Vargas, and his siblings, saw their father’s dream made reality when today’s winery was built at the Hacienda Pradolagar estate, in Logroño, at the heart of the Rioja Alta. Richly coloured, deep black cherry hue with violet rims. Nose: Excellent combination of red berries like wild strawberries and raspberries with undertones of sweet liquorice. Palate: The palate is full-bodied and luscious with velvety texture. Great well-balanced acidity together with silky tannins trigger warm velvety mouth feel. Exceptionally elegant wine, full of freshness and great complexity. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 8 2486 51 Volver, Tempranillo, La Mancha 2015 45.00 874 0 The Spanish enologist, Rafael Cañizares seeks to achieve the maximum expression of the Tempranillo grape grown in the environment. This winery is located in the best terroir of La Mancha found in the eastern region of the Denomination of Origin. The soil is the reason that the winery committed themselves to purchasing 228 acres of vineyards with an average age of 40 years. Saturated ruby. Strikingly aromatic nose offers a pungent array of fruit, floral and herbal scents. Sweet cherry-vanilla and cola flavors coat the palate and are enlivened by juicy acidity. Parker - 90. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 1 3207 52 Chenin Blanc, Badenhorst "Secateurs" 2018 36.00 78 0 Badenhorst Family Wines are grown, made and matured on Kalmoesfontein farm in the Swartland appellation of South Africa. The 28ha of old bushvines grow in the Siebritskloof part of the Paardeberg mountain. The property is owned by the cousins Hein and Adi Badenhorst. Together these two have restored a neglected cellar on the farm that was last used in the 1930′s to make natural wines in the traditional manner. The Chenin Blanc grapes used are from their farm, Kalmoesfontein and are mountain sloped bushvines. The high quality fruit comes from old un-irrigated bushvines grown on a variety of granite soils that are naturally low yielding. Most of the Chenin vines were planted the 1960’s and tend to yield around 4 tons/hectare. 750 0 0 13 45 1 jpg 4 3563 52 Savennières, Château de L'Eperonnière "Croix Picot" 2016 75.00 483 0 A few years ago, the Tijou family, proprietaires for several generations of the Chateau Soucherie in Beaufort-sur-Layon, decided to sell their property and effectively exchange the larger domaine of Soucherie for the smaller estate just down the road, Chateau de l’Eperonniere, which was also in the family for many generations. Mathieu Tijou, son of Pierre-Yves and Brigitte, established his domaine at Eperonniere and launched his career as independent vigneron with the 2007 vintage. The vineyards are sited on both sides of the Loire and overlook the Layon. Mathieu owns the “Croix Picot” vineyard in the Savennieres appellation and the remaining vineyards around the Chateau are in the Anjou and Coteaux du Layon appellations. The vineyards lie hard on the banks of the Loire River and are frequently covered in an early morning mist. The soil is almost exclusively composed of schist which renders a classic Savennieres: rigorous, bone-dry, with an intense minerality to the finish. The grapes are harvested manually and then are fermented in barrel using only indigenous yeasts. The elevage is also in barrel, none of which are new. The wine never undergoes the malolactic fermentation. Bottling occurs 12 months after the harvest. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 3 3500 52 Savennières La Roche aux Moines "Les Petites Coulées," Clément Baraud 2016 140.00 104 0 Clément arrived in the Loire in the late 80’s, and has spent every moment since helping to make natural wines, and spreading his expertise on the biodynamic method. Clément is now focused mostly on his own domaine in Savennières, and most notably from the famous Roche aux Moines vineyard. And while fancy A.O.C.’s are not always our thing, great terroir always is. His wine is a testament to the fact that this patch of earth couldn’t be in better hands. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 2 3224 52 Vouvray, Clos du Gaimont 2017 42.00 81 0 François Chainier, whose family has been working in wine since the mid 18th century, purchased Clos du Gaimont’s vineyards from a Bordeaux wine negotiant in September, 1997. Clos du Gaimont is a parcel of the esteemed Clos de Nouys vineyard, which is situated on one plot of premium land in the heart of Vouvray. A clos is an enclosed vineyard which refers to the fact that the vines are currently, or at one time were surrounded by a wall. While most of it has fallen down, a small section of Clos du Gaimont’s original wall still borders the vineyard. The trellised vines, which average 35 years of age, are set in chalky and clay soils and receive south-southwest exposure. 750 0 0 5 4 1 jpg 2 1549 20 Adelsheim, Willamette Valley 2018 65.00 249 1 In 1971, Ginny and David Adelsheim purchased the 19 acres that would become Quarter Mile Lane Vineyard. They shared a dream with a handful of families that Oregon’s climate and land could one day produce serious wines. A home was built, vines planted, and in 1978, the first commercial wines were produced. Over four decades, Adelsheim Vineyard grew up with Oregon’s wine industry. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 27 3124 20 Antica Terra "Antikythera," Emola-Amity Hills 2015 350.00 368 0 Antica Terra is an 11 acre vineyard located on a rocky hillside in the Eola-Amity Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The first vines were planted here in 1989 in a clearing within the oak savannah. The geology of the site is extremely unusual. In most of the region, vineyards are planted in the relatively deep, geologically young soils left behind by either the Missoula floods or the volcanic events that formed the Cascade Range. "The Antikythera Mechanism is a geared, bronze-age device that was used to calculate astronomical positions with incredible precision. Sponge divers recovered it from the Antikythera wreck, in 1900, off the coast of Point Glyphadia. It’s significance for us began as wordplay. While pronounced differently, Antikythera looks remarkably like Antica Terra. This similarity has become a way to understand the changing identity of our site. Since 2009, the site itself and the character of the wine it produces has been dramatically transformed. There is an expression of place that we could not imagine was possible before. Choosing the name Antikythera allowed us to link the wine to the history of the site while indicating that it was something completely different than what had come before." 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3571 20 Antica Terra, "Botanica," Willamette Valley 2017 250.00 265 0 Antica Terra is an 11 acre vineyard located on a rocky hillside in the Eola-Amity Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The first vines were planted here in 1989 in a clearing within the oak savannah. The geology of the site is extremely unusual. In most of the region, vineyards are planted in the relatively deep, geologically young soils left behind by either the Missoula floods or the volcanic events that formed the Cascade Range. Botanica is always sappy and sanguine with a taste of wild rose, sour cherries, and blood orange. It is tempting to define it solely by its compelling texture and lush personality but there is a structural element that is equally striking. This balance between extraordinarily concentrated fruit and intense levels of extract is the essence of this wine. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 9 3447 20 Antica Terra, "Ceras," Willamette Valley 2016 250.00 264 0 Antica Terra is an 11 acre vineyard located on a rocky hillside in the Eola-Amity Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The first vines were planted here in 1989 in a clearing within the oak savannah. The geology of the site is extremely unusual. In most of the region, vineyards are planted in the relatively deep, geologically young soils left behind by either the Missoula floods or the volcanic events that formed the Cascade Range. Ceras is Botanica’s counterpoint. Its color is more purple than red. It is more about minerals and herbs than fruit and flowers. It is a focused and elegant distillation of rock rather than an opulent cascade of fruit. It is an expression of the geology that lays beneath our land, the tart blue fruits of the coast range and the tender herbs that one finds amongst the trees and mushrooms of the Northwest forest. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 9 3549 20 Archery Summit, "Arcus," Dundee Hills 2016 250.00 149 0 Arcus, meaning ‘bow’ in Latin, describes the 39 acre estate vineyard that wraps around both sides of a small valley in the heart of the Dundee Hills. Capturing the distinctive terroir of this single vineyard, Arcus Estate rewards Pinot Noir devotees with an expansive nose, compelling mid-palate, elegant finish, and a superior expression of the varietal. Opulent fruit notes of raspberry coulis, wild strawberry and fresh red cherry arise from the glass of this vintage of Arcus Estate Pinot Noir, blending with a background of savory nori and cocoa powder. The palate offers generous flavors of concentrated raspberry, Oregon blackcap and blackberry, leading into notes of spice box and lavender incense. A viscous texture creates lasting impressions of ripe black fruit that melt gracefully into the dark chocolate finish. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 2 3489 20 Avaraen, Nysa Vineyard, Dundee Hills - Willamette Valley 2016 99.00 854 0 Banshee Wines (including the Avaraen line,) was founded by three friends from the Midwest and East Coast who shared a passion for wine and a lifelong dream of owning their own winery. Their fascination with wine started early in life. While their peers were drinking Milwaukee’s Best, they had an affinity towards collecting European wines and hosting dorm room wine tastings. Post-college, each pursued a career in the wine industry, ranging from importing wines, to winemaking, to distribution and sales. When their paths ultimately converged in San Francisco, they shared many meals, bottles of wine, concerts, and laughs with one another. In 2009 they pooled their money together to make the first vintage of Banshee Wines Pinot Noir, which sold out in three short months. By the end of the year, Banshee Wines was their full-time pursuit. The grapes for this wine are sourced from late-ripening “grand cru” plot known for tiny clusters; planted in 1988 to Pommard, Coury, Dijon clones. The vineyard is on a Southeast facing slope at 675 ft. elevation. “A highly aromatic bouquet evokes red fruit liqueur, mocha and Asian spices, along with a smoky mineral overtone. Juicy, seamless and precise on the palate, offering sweet raspberry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen and spread out steadily with air. Conveys a suave blend of richness and finesse and finishes with supple, harmonious tannins and outstanding clarity and floral-tinged persistence.” 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 9 3305 20 Belden Barns, Sonoma Mountain 2012 78.00 352 0 Taking turns as a dairy farm, a prune orchard and a rural retreat, complete with attendant dance hall and stagecoach stop, the Belden Barns site has a long history of farming and hospitality dating back to the late 1800’s. Once you enter the estate’s drive and see the 100-year-old Monterrey Cyprus trees and 1880’s era white farm buildings, you immediately sense the soul and magic of old Sonoma. The Estate Pinot Noir fulfills this site's long-standing reputation and provides an absolutely stunning wine that offers a captivating balance of dark fruit, earth,and spice. The site's 1,000-foot elevation and maritime breeze influence produces smaller "mountain" berries with relatively thicker skins. As a result, the Pinot Noir achieves a unique depth of color and lush core of flavor. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 1 3341 20 Belle Glos, "Las Alturas," Santa Lucia Highlands 2018 125.00 609 0 Belle Glos showcases distinctive Pinot Noirs produced from California’s most noteworthy coastal wine-growing regions. While each vineyard location lies near the Pacific Ocean, the climate differences are significant, varying with the amount of fog, wind, sunlight, and soil type at each site. Each Vineyard Designate is crafted to distill the purest essence of the locale into elegant expressions of California Pinot Noir. Owner/winemaker, Joe Wagner chose the name Belle Glos to honor his grandmother, Lorna Belle Glos Wagner. Lorna was a co-founder of Caymus Vineyards, an inspirational figure to Joseph and an avid lover of Pinot Noir. Deep ruby red in color with intriguing aromas of sun-warmed blackberries, ripe plums, with hints of black licorice. A complexity of dark berry fruits unfold on the palate; blackberries and bing cherries along with dark chocolate flavors. Vanilla and cedar oak undertones on the mid-palate further enhance the wine. The overall impression is rich with refined tannins, firm acidity and explosive layers of ripe fruit. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 5 3635 20 Bethel Heights "Aeolian," Eola-Amity Hills 2017 99.00 544 0 Named for the wind that defines the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, the Aeolian Pinot Noir is avehicle to explore the dynamic evolving landscape that Bethel Hieghts farms. The sense of place and specificity that they value most highly in their wines takes many years to evolve. With their oldest vines they allow each block to speak for itself in a separate bottling. The second generation vines at Bethel Heights, on the other hand, are just beginning to find their voice. “Shows grace and presence, with compelling and complex raspberry, dusky spice and orange tea flavors that build richness toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2026.”—Tim Fish (Wine Spectator) 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 6 3427 20 Billecart-Salmon, Brut Rosé 110.00 15 0 The production secrets and the vinification method of this cuvée go back to the origins of the House of Billecart-Salmon and have been handed down for seven generations. The Brut Rosé is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir vinified as red wine. Its pale and bright pink colour is adorned with warm glints of gold and its delicate slowly rising bubbles give it a persistent mousse. This cuvée unveils a subtle aroma leading to an elegant, delicate bouquet of fine notes of red fruits and zest of citrus fruits. Its special method of vinification gives this cuvée a light, elegant flavour, followed by a fresh finish with a taste of raspberry. 375 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 6 375 ml 2953 20 Bourgogne, Christian Clerget 2015 90.00 750 0 Christian and Isabelle Clerget personify traditional Burgundy. Their secret is simply that they are blessed with some of the finest plots of land in Burgundy and they have learned to personally work this land so that it produces the absolute best fruit possible for making wine. Christian says that "the quality of the wine is determined in the vineyards." It is this respect for the land and the Pinot Noir grape that has helped the Clerget family turn out exceptional wine for 4 generations. And it’s all done as naturally as possible. Christian and Isabelle do everything with the help of a few trusted workers. They only harvest when the grapes are at full maturity. And harvesting by hand allows them to select only the finest grapes for the wine. Their yields are purposely kept to a low level. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 6 2982 20 Bourgogne, Jean-Luc Joillot 2014 64.00 639 0 Jean Luc Joillot works on more than 60 parcels of vines spread over the commune of Pommard and 2 parcels in Beaune. He operates a system of minimum use of sprays ("lutte raisonee"), pruning excess bunches of grapes from the vines where needed ("vendange en vert"), and harvests by hand, which allows him to vinify grapes that are whole, ripe and healthy. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 5 2954 20 Bourgogne, "Vieilles Vignes," Maison Roche de Bellene 2017 46.00 704 0 Nicolas Potel, the well-known and highly regarded winemaker in Burgundy, has founded a new Domaine (estate-owned vineyards) and Maison (a négociant, making wine with fruit from other growers). Domaine de Bellene is located in Beaune, the very heart of Burgundy. Nicolas now owns 60 acres of vineyards in several villages throughout the Côte d'Or. The vineyards have been farmed according to organic practices since 2006 and are now certified BIO. Vinification is minimalist in approach — no enzymes, cultured yeasts or acid adjustments are used, and filtration is avoided. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 4 2834 20 Bourgogne, "Vieilles Vignes," Joseph Voillot 2016 85.00 651 0 This venerable fifth-generation domaine has holdings in the top vineyards of both Volnay and Pommard. Chez Voillot is quite conscientious with their 23 acres of vines. Yields average 36-38 hectoliters per hectare; harvesting is by hand with small bins after a selection in the vineyard, and further selection is made on a sorting table (the selection was especially severe in 2000, 2001, and 2004). It's worth noting that their team of experienced harvesters has remained virtually unchanged for well over a decade. Vinification is done without stems and afterwards the wine is moved by gravity into barrel. In good years, no more than 30% new oak barrels are used for aging the premier crus, and SO2 is kept to a minimum. Son-in-law Jean Pierre Charlot is now the managing director. He worked closely with Joseph from 1980 to 1995, when the elder man retired. For many years, Jean-Pierre was a professor at the Lycée Viticole in Beaune, where he taught several of Burgundy's rising stars. He's a meticulous man, and what interests him is handling the challenging years when the sum of the parts—the vineyard work, triage at harvest, and careful cellar practices—really pay off. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 4 3537 20 Brittan, "Gestalt Block," McMinnville - Willamette Valley 2014 125.00 696 0 Winemaker Robert Brittan, a wine industry veteran with over 40 harvest under his belt, has always had a passion for Pinot noir; a love affair that began in the 80’s when he made several vintages under his Britt Hill label with fruit from Carneros. In 2004, Robert decided to leave Stags’ Leap Winery in Napa and start a Pinot noir project in the cool climate of the North Willamette Valley. The 2015 Gestalt Block Pinot noir is the tenth vintage of this block-specific wine. On the nose, the 2015 Gestalt showcases beautiful aromas of blueberry, cassis and leather, underpinned with hints of tarragon and bay leaf. The rich palate rolls with dark cherry, cranberry and orange zest, with hints of cardamom and cinnamon. The finish is persistent and elegant, alluding to a very long and graceful aging period. AVA:McMinnville VINEYARD: Brittan Vineyard CASES PRODUCED: 450 cases ELEVAGE:12 months, 30% new French oak 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 3 2592 20 Calera, Central Coast 2016 80.00 406 0 “Calera” is Spanish for “limekiln.” Limestone had been commercially quarried from the property 100 years earlier, as evidenced by the existence of a recently restored 30 foot tall masonry calera, the symbol and logo of Calera Wine Company. Calera Wine Company's history goes back more than 30 years, to when Josh Jensen fell in love with the wines of Burgundy and decided to turn that love into his life's work. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 6 1598 20 Chehalem, Chehalem Mountains AVA 2017 70.00 237 0 The name of this winery comes from the Chehalem Mountains, a range of volcanic hills that runs through the Willamette Valley. The name is a Native American word meaning "valley of flowers". The 2017 Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir reflects the diversity of its namesake AVA. The variety of soil types across this region provide depth and complexity to this approachable wine. Aromatics of blue and red fruits, with a touch of brambly earth and spice, leap out of the glass. The palate shows ripe red fruit, which is complemented by soft, silky tannins and a crisp finish. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 5 3410 20 Chorey-lès-Beaune, Tollot-Beaut 2015 99.00 668 1 The Tollot family represents a long lineage of winegrowers dating back to the late 1880s when François Tollot began planting vineyards in Chorey-lès-Beaune. Today, cousins Nathalie, Jean-Paul, and Olivier Tollot are in charge. The wines of Tollot-Beaut are well known for their serious but pleasing style across a range of appellations from Bourgogne to Grand Cru. Chorey-lès-Beaune lies on the plains below the Cote d'Or escarpment with 336 acres almost exclusively planted with Pinot Noir. Initially, the Tollot family owned vines only in Chorey, but successive generations made small acquisitions in Savigny-lès-Beaune, Aloxe-Corton, and Beaune for a current total of 60 acres. A good Chorey-lès-Beaune should display aromas and flavors typical of red wines from Beaune with red fruits and flowers coupled with freshness and minerals. Tollot-Beaut is bright and perfumed with red cherries and slightly coarse tannins. This is a classic rustic red wine. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 10 3411 20 Chorey-lès-Beaune, Tollot-Beaut 2015 55.00 675 0 The Tollot family represents a long lineage of winegrowers dating back to the late 1880s when François Tollot began planting vineyards in Chorey-lès-Beaune. Today, cousins Nathalie, Jean-Paul, and Olivier Tollot are in charge. The wines of Tollot-Beaut are well known for their serious but pleasing style across a range of appellations from Bourgogne to Grand Cru. Chorey-lès-Beaune lies on the plains below the Cote d'Or escarpment with 336 acres almost exclusively planted with Pinot Noir. Initially, the Tollot family owned vines only in Chorey, but successive generations made small acquisitions in Savigny-lès-Beaune, Aloxe-Corton, and Beaune for a current total of 60 acres. A good Chorey-lès-Beaune should display aromas and flavors typical of red wines from Beaune with red fruits and flowers coupled with freshness and minerals. Tollot-Beaut is bright and perfumed with red cherries and slightly coarse tannins. This is a classic rustic red wine. 375 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 7 375 ml 3385 20 Copain "Tous Ensemble," Mendocino County 2016 68.00 289 0 Tous Ensemble, "all together" in French, is a series of approachable wines that are perfect for every occasion, every palate, and every day of the week. The 2015 Tous Ensemble Pinot Noir’s aroma is layered with fresh red fruits, rose petal, and vanilla. The body is redolent of damson plums, red apple skin and bing cherries, with a silky texture and smooth tannins. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 2 1206 20 Francis Coppola, Diamond Series 2016 40.00 241 0 This winery is owned by famed movie director Francis Ford Coppola. The Monterey vineyards where this Pinot Noir is grown offer ideal sun exposure, which ensures ripe fruit to make a rich, complex, fruit-driven wine. 750 0 0 1 37 2 jpg 8 3453 20 Division, "Deux," Eola-Amity Hills 2018 90.00 358 0 Division Winemaking Company is a Portland, Oregon based winery founded in 2010 by Kate Norris and Thomas Monroe. Inspired by the wineries of Loire, Beaujolais, Burgundy and the Northern Rhone where they first learned winemaking and viticulture, the urban winery creates Oregon and Washington wines including Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chardonnay, Rose, Chenin, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cot, Syrah, Grenache, and Sauvignon Blanc. Determined to make approachable and balanced wines though minimal manipulation, the winemakers have a passion to work with well farmed terroir expressive vineyards, many of which are organic and/or Biodynamic®, celebrating the varietals the winemakers loves to drink. There are many striking things about the 2017 Pinot Noir “Deux”, but perhaps most striking is the wine’s complex salinity (result of terroir) and incredible length on the palate (result of old vines). Aromatically, the wine is reminiscent of boysenberries smashed in briny sand and crushed shells. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 5 3614 20 Division "Un," Willamette Valley 2017 85.00 232 0 Division Winemaking Company is a Portland, Oregon based winery founded in 2010 by Kate Norris and Thomas Monroe. Inspired by the wineries of Loire, Beaujolais, Burgundy and the Northern Rhone where they first learned winemaking and viticulture, the urban winery creates Oregon and Washington wines including Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chardonnay, Rose, Chenin, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cot, Syrah, Grenache, and Sauvignon Blanc. Determined to make approachable and balanced wines though minimal manipulation, the winemakers have a passion to work with well farmed terroir expressive vineyards, many of which are organic and/or Biodynamic®, celebrating the varietals the winemakers loves to drink. "As in years past, we approach the Division Pinot Noir “Un” cuvee, our only Division Pinot Noir featuring multiple vineyard sites, as our opportunity to make a vintage character cuvée in our lighter, finesse driven style that is designed to perform well above its price point. Our vineyard roster in 2018 experienced just a few notable changes, most notably with the growing presence of the Biodynamically farmed Johan Vineyards and the introduction of our young, but hugely promising vines from Cassin Vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. All but one of our vineyards included in the “Un” cuvee is organically, LIVE Certified and/or Biodynamically farmed. Our oldest vines, the Eola Springs Vineyard, has transitioned to Biodynamic and organic principled farming (save for phylloxera treatment in the old vines). " Johan Vineyards - Van Duzer (25%), Eola Springs Vineyard - Eola Amity Hills (20%) Cassin Vineyard - Yamhill Carlton AVA (18%), Bjornson Vineyard - Eola Amity Hills AVA (15%), Armstrong Vineyard - Ribbon Ridge, (10%), Redford Wetle Vineyard - Eola-Amity Hills AVA (15%) & Temperance Hill Vineyard - Eola Amity Hills AVA (3%) 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 2 3416 20 Domaine Serene, "Evenstad Reserve," Willamette Valley 2015 99.00 297 0 Evenstad Estate, crowning the southernmost hill in the prestigious Red Hills of Dundee, is one of the most unique vineyard estates in the world, ranging in elevation from 520-800 feet. The seven vineyards of this site face East, South and West, with glorious views of the Cascade Mountains, the Coast Range, and the Willamette Valley. Clones, rootstocks, microclimates, slope and elevation allow for the creation of distinct and complex wines. There are seven producing vineyards on the Evenstad Estate: Mark Bradford, Fleur de Lis, Etoile, Gold Eagle, Clos du Soleil, Grace and Côte Sud. 375 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 5 375 ml 2869 20 Domaine Serene, "Yamhill Cuvée," Willamette Valley 2016 140.00 300 0 Consistent from vintage to vintage as the “little sister” of the Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir, the Yamhill Cuvée Pinot Noir is a blend from each of the winery's vineyard sites that results in a vibrant, food friendly Pinot Noir. This wine has an aroma profile that consists of red fruit, minerality, sweet and complex spice, earth and a hint of French oak. The palate offers youthful tannins and balanced acidity which lead to a smooth and graceful finish. The Yamhill Cuvée is approachable in its youth while maintaining the elegance and finesse of a Domaine Serene Pinot Noir. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 7 1670 20 Duckhorn Goldeneye, Anderson Valley 2016 120.00 283 0 Duckhorn Vineyards of Napa Valley has been producing this Pinot Noir in Mendocino's Anderson Valley since 1997. Widely considered to be one of the top Pinots from this cool coastal area. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 4 3310 20 Elk Cove, "Five Mountain," Chehalem Mountain 2017 90.00 262 0 Five Mountain Vineyard was planted in 1978 by the Ponzi family. The original 4.2 acres of old vines are comprised of Pommard clone and the entire vineyard is set on a steep southeast slope in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, overlooking “five mountains” in the Cascade Range most widely seen from the Willamette Valley. This vineyard was an important element in the early Ponzi Reserve Pinots and has also been a Single Vineyard selection from a number of premier Oregon wineries over the years. Five Mountain is now sustainably farmed by Elk Cove Vineyards and comprises a total of 30 acres including the original old vine Pommard Pinot Noir, younger Dijon Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer and Riesling. A floral nose of violets and rose petal leads into rich tenors of leather and baking chocolate. Luscious and fruit forward, the palate sings with red raspberries, cranberries and pie-cherries while structured tannins then soften into a lingering, juicy finish. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3000 20 Emeritus, "Hallberg Ranch," Green Valley - Sonoma 2016 110.00 345 0 The home ranch of Emeritus Vineyards lies along Sonoma County’s Goldridge—an eight mile long, low ridge running from Sebastopol to Forestville in the lower reach of the Russian River Valley. The ranch lies in the sub-appellation Green Valley. The Goldridge is America’s Cote de Nuits, home to many top Pinot Noir producers. Most notable about Hallberg Ranch is that it is completely farmed without irrigation. Although the other vineyards of Emeritus are being weaned off their irrigation Hallberg has been the first to become totally independent of an artificial addition of water. Dry-farming helps the grapes achieve full physiological ripeness at lower sugar levels, with more complex taste components in heightened balance. With no dehydration, the vines become more naturally in balance with the soil and climate giving the wine a more pure expression of its unique terroir. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 1273 20 Etude, "Grace Benoist Ranch," Carneros 2017 70.00 263 0 The Etude Carneros Pinot Noir hails from our estate vineyards tucked away in the far Northwest corner of the Carneros appellation, just on the Southwest corner of Sonoma. Unlike most of Carneros, which is largely uplifted bay bottoms with soils composed of clay, the soils at Grace Benoist Ranch are variations of soils influenced by volcanic origin. Combining these well-drained, rocky upland soils with the extreme western location closer to the Pacific Ocean and San Pablo Bay make this site an ideal place to grow Burgundian varieties. The vineyard parcels at Grace Benoist Ranch conform to the various soil types and the changing contours of the Ranch topography. Individual vineyards average only eight acres in size and spacing is dense to ensure low per vine yields of fully concentrated fruit. Grace Benoist Ranch is farmed to Etude’s exacting standards, using environmentally sound viticultural practices. The Ranch is sustainably farmed and certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance as well as Fish Friendly Farming. At the Ranch, there are four smaller vineyards (Laniger, Deer Camp, Temblor and Heirloom) with five principal unique soil types and 20 distinct Pinot Noir clones. A vibrant red ruby trending garnet color, aromas of heady red plum, dark cherry and berry confiture dominate, alongside bright fresh fruit with slight bay and thyme, white pepper and slight oak spice. Flavors follow the same pattern, with the familiar cinnamon graham cracker note often found in this wine. Rich and round and showcasing red fruits such as Bing cherry, raspberry with bright acidity and long, fine-grained tannins that suggest the opportunity to age a bit for further development of complex layers of flavors. Glossy, a bit showy, a fine example of what Grace Benoist Ranch offers. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 7 3567 20 Eyrie, "Daphne," Dundee Hills 2015 175.00 148 0 In early 1965, 25-year old David Lett moved to Oregon with “3,000 grape cuttings and a theory.” He was particularly determined to prove that stylistically pure Pinot noir could be grown successfully outside of Burgundy. In February, David planted his cuttings to root in a rented nursery plot, and began his search for the perfect vineyard site. This was the first planting of Pinot noir and related varieties in the Willamette Valley, and the first Pinot gris in America. In 1966 David found his site, a 20-acre hillside in the Dundee Hills, about 30 miles SW of Portland. David and his new bride Diana named their fledgling vineyard for the red-tailed hawks who make their home in the fir trees at the top of the first plantings. In 1970, David and Diana produced their first vintage. The Eyrie Vineyards 1975 Pinot noir would become the first American Pinot noir to compete successfully with the renowned Pinot noirs of Burgundy (Paris, 1979; Beaune, 1980). Planted at the crest of the hill, Daphne is one of the oldest and highest elevation plantings in the Dundee Hills. The soil is very shallow here, averaging less than 10" on top of bedrock. The site is windy and cool. In response to the harsh environent, the vines at Daphne are small, almost bonsai-like. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 6 3568 20 Eyrie, "Original Vines," Dundee Hills 2015 175.00 144 0 In early 1965, 25-year old David Lett moved to Oregon with “3,000 grape cuttings and a theory.” He was particularly determined to prove that stylistically pure Pinot noir could be grown successfully outside of Burgundy. In February, David planted his cuttings to root in a rented nursery plot, and began his search for the perfect vineyard site. This was the first planting of Pinot noir and related varieties in the Willamette Valley, and the first Pinot gris in America. In 1966 David found his site, a 20-acre hillside in the Dundee Hills, about 30 miles SW of Portland. David and his new bride Diana named their fledgling vineyard for the red-tailed hawks who make their home in the fir trees at the top of the first plantings. In 1970, David and Diana produced their first vintage. The Eyrie Vineyards 1975 Pinot noir would become the first American Pinot noir to compete successfully with the renowned Pinot noirs of Burgundy (Paris, 1979; Beaune, 1980). Eyrie’s Original Vines is sourced from the oldest Pinot noir vines in the Willamette Valley. With roots reaching deep down into the volcanic layers of the Dundee Hills, the resulting wine presents a broad sensory experience from woodsey on the nose to stone fruit on the palate—expressive yet lovely and elegant. The 2014 vintage was aged 18 months in French oak barrels before bottling. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 6 3570 20 Eyrie, "South Block - Original Vines," Dundee Hills 2014 375.00 253 0 In early 1965, 25-year old David Lett moved to Oregon with “3,000 grape cuttings and a theory.” He was particularly determined to prove that stylistically pure Pinot noir could be grown successfully outside of Burgundy. In February, David planted his cuttings to root in a rented nursery plot, and began his search for the perfect vineyard site. This was the first planting of Pinot noir and related varieties in the Willamette Valley, and the first Pinot gris in America. In 1966 David found his site, a 20-acre hillside in the Dundee Hills, about 30 miles SW of Portland. David and his new bride Diana named their fledgling vineyard for the red-tailed hawks who make their home in the fir trees at the top of the first plantings. In 1970, David and Diana produced their first vintage. The Eyrie Vineyards 1975 Pinot noir would become the first American Pinot noir to compete successfully with the renowned Pinot noirs of Burgundy (Paris, 1979; Beaune, 1980). "From vines planted in 1968 in the original Eyrie vineyard, the 2014 Pinot Noir South Block Reserve is pale to medium ruby in color with a savory nose of sweet tobacco and scorched earth with blood orange peel, dried black tea leaves, dried red roses and cola. Light to medium-bodied, it features red fruits in the mouth with lovely layers of amaro, yellow raisin and tobacco, with firm, fine-grained tannins and juicy acidity, finishing very long, layered and textured." –Erin Brooks 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3191 20 Failla, Sonoma Coast 2018 82.00 311 0 Ehren Jordan began his preparation for winemaking at George Washington University where he majored in Art History with a minor in Classical Archeology. "Of course", you say, "obvious prerequisites for a winemaking career". In fact, Ehren has no formal degree in fermentation science from any institution, a fact he proudly credits with his success. Instead, one of those "thousand insignificant choices we make everyday" set him on his course: he got a part-time job as stock boy at Bell’s Wine Shop down the street from ABC Studios in Washington, D.C. Celebrated oenologist Jean-Luc Columbo took a chance on the erstwhile Ehren, whom he had met the prior year. A Francophile since adolescence, Ehren threw himself into all aspects of what seemed like turn-of-the-century winemaking in age-old caves and endurance-sport viticulture on the terraced hillsides of Cornas. During the sodden 1992 and 1993 vintages Ehren helped make Les Ruchets, Columbo’s own label. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 4 2666 20 Flowers, Sonoma Coast 2017 99.00 279 0 As nursery owners in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Walt and Joan Flowers had long dreamed of combining their love of wine with their passion for agriculture. They knew they wanted to produce their favorite varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; what they didn't know was that their path would eventually lead them across the country to Northern California's rugged Sonoma Coast. After responding to a small classified ad in a national wine publication, that's exactly where they landed. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 5 2061 20 François Montand, Brut Rosé, NV 45.00 6 0 This dry rosé sparkling wine comes from the Jura region of France, near the Swiss border. It is made from a blend of Grenache and Pinot Noir. 750 0 0 5 35 3 jpg 7 2925 20 Gevrey Chambertin, François Leclerc 2015 150.00 747 0 Rene Leclerc says he does not want to make technical wine. Instead, he wants to make wine from experience. Rene has been making wine under his own label since the mid 1970’s. Today, he is one of the best known and most highly respected craftsmen in Burgundy. He simply makes great wine year in and year out. Rene is slowly passing the reins of the domaine to his son, Francois, who was married to an American from Macon, Georgia. The Leclerc family uses the same traditional vinification techniques on all of their wines, including the basic Bourgogne Pinot Noir. They emphasize the fruit component of wine by pressing the grapes for only 3 hours, instead of the usual 10 hours. Thus, they get the best juice for their wines while avoiding the bitter tannins. Their press is one of only 3 of its kind that are still in existence that aren’t in a museum. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 3 3456 20 Gevrey Chambertin, Maume by Domaine Tawse 2015 140.00 361 0 Bertrand is the current Maume-in-charge at the tiny Domaine Maume. He has been involved in making the wines here since the mid nineties. Domaine Maume’s wines are deep, profound Pinot Noir experiences. They are wines of mystery – constantly changing and evolving, both in barrel and in bottle, like the Burgundies of the past. They are bottled from barrel by gravity without any pumping, fining or filtration. The secret to Maume’s success is his rigid adherence to selection massale cuttings in his replanting of the family’s vineyards. By isolating vines with the healthiest grapes, they replant only the best. Most of their vines are quite old, too, averaging 50 years of age across all parcels. Maume does not believe in using new clones but is a strong believer in the diversity of old Pinot stock. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 6 3400 20 Givry, Louis Jadot 2016 70.00 338 0 Côte Chalonnaise is situated South to the Côte de Beaune (after Santenay). There are five main appellations in this area : Aligoté de Bouzeron, Rully, Mercurey, Givry et Montagny. Givry was highly regarded by Henri IV. Givry vines are situated around the village of Givry, between Mercurey and Montagny, and around the three hamlets of Poncey, Cortiambles et Russilly. Its chalky brown soil, as a result of the weathering of Jurassic limestone, has given rise to a village appellation often compared to Volnay. Red Givry from Maison Louis Jadot is clean tasting, rich and well balanced. This wine is noted for its warmth, liveliness and full bodied nature. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 5 1925 20 Gruet, "Blanc de Blanc," New Mexico, NV 36.00 1 0 In 1983, the Gruet family was traveling through the US, and while in New Mexico met a group of European winemakers who had planted vineyards in Engle, south of Albuquerque. In 1984, Gilbert Gruet, whose Champagne house had produced Champagne in France since 1952, decided to plant a vineyard to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Friend Farid Himeur relocated with them to New Mexico to begin their American wine making adventure. 750 1 0 9.00 1 37 3 jpg 94 3508 20 Hartford Court, "Hailey's Block," Green Valley - Russian River 2016 160.00 706 0 Hailey's Block Pinot Noir is located within the prestigious Arrendell Vineyard and is named after founders Don & Jenny Hartford's daughter Hailey. The block was planted over 20 years ago to Dijon clones 114 and 777 at a time when Hailey was just six years old. Over time, we have watched both Hailey and her namesake Pinot Noir mature into personalities of great strength, beauty and charm. Arrendell Vineyard and Hailey’s Block sits in arguably the coldest spot in the Green Valley sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley AVA. The cold meso-climate that results from cool air settling in the low-lying vineyard preserves natural acidity in the grapes and helps preserve the purity and expression of the unique terroir in this beautiful Pinot Noir. Red and black cherries, wild berry, allspice and floral aromas accent the wine and are followed by bright blue fruits, candied cherry notes and subtle earthy flavors that carry through on the palate. Full bodied, silky tannins complete the savory finish. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 4 2001 20 Hartford Court, "Land's Edge," Sonoma Coast 2013 110.00 258 0 Land’s Edge Pinot Noir is sourced predominately from our estate’s Annapolis vineyard, located in the Sonoma Coastal Mountain Range – north of the Russian River, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Because there is only one cascading ridge between the ocean and the vineyard, Annapolis vineyard and other estate owned vineyards located at ‘Land’s Edge’, such as Seascape vineyard, are so cold that miniscule crops of Pinot Noir are often picked here in November. This cool and often foggy, coastal climate preserves natural acidity in the grapes and helps delineate the purity of fruit flavors and expression of the unique, yet firm coastal terroir in this wine. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 4 1823 20 Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, Joillot 2015 90.00 656 0 Jean Luc Joillot works on more than 60 parcels of vines spread over the commune of Pommard and 2 parcels in Beaune. He operates a system of minimum use of sprays ("lutte raisonee"), pruning excess bunches of grapes from the vines where needed ("vendange en vert"), and harvests by hand, which allows him to vinify grapes that are whole, ripe and healthy. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 3 2874 20 Hirsch, "San Andreas," Sonoma Coast 2016 150.00 429 0 Perched on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Fort Ross, Hirsch Vineyards is the birth ground of great pinot noir on the extreme Sonoma Coast. David Hirsch founded the vineyard in 1980 to grow fruit and make site-specific wine. From the start all efforts have been on the growing of fruit that makes wines profoundly characteristic of the site vintage after vintage. The climate is highly erratic, unpredictable, with wide annual swings in moisture, temperature, storms, and wind. As these factors are in constant flux, their cumulative effect creates a changing, complex environment on the soils and plants: no year is like another. This climatic chaos is coupled with a geology containing a highly varied mélange of sandstone-based soils and assorted rock placed at random across the rolling hills and ridges on which the vineyards are planted: an erratic climate working on highly variegated soils and exposures and slopes. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 2103 20 Hirsch, "San Andreas," Sonoma Coast 2016 90.00 426 0 Perched on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Fort Ross, Hirsch Vineyards is the birth ground of great pinot noir on the extreme Sonoma Coast. David Hirsch founded the vineyard in 1980 to grow fruit and make site-specific wine. From the start all efforts have been on the growing of fruit that makes wines profoundly characteristic of the site vintage after vintage. The climate is highly erratic, unpredictable, with wide annual swings in moisture, temperature, storms, and wind. As these factors are in constant flux, their cumulative effect creates a changing, complex environment on the soils and plants: no year is like another. This climatic chaos is coupled with a geology containing a highly varied mélange of sandstone-based soils and assorted rock placed at random across the rolling hills and ridges on which the vineyards are planted: an erratic climate working on highly variegated soils and exposures and slopes. 375 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 375 ml 3615 20 Husic, Sonoma Coast 2016 140.00 557 0 On the Husic’s hillside property, overlooking the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, Julie and Frank set out to realize a life-long dream. In 1997, moving endless rocks and sculpting narrow terraces that cling to the mountain’s edge, they planted three small, extremely steep Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards, which peacefully coexist with the region’s wildlife. The rugged, rocky growing conditions, combined with careful farming methods, have yielded a limited amount of magnificent fruit. Now on their 15th release, offering two Cabernets – Husic Vineyards and Palm Terrace, both wines come from the three estate vineyards. In addition, two wines from Sonoma Coast: Husic Vineyards Chardonnay, and Husic Vineyards Pinot Noir. They also offer a limited amount of a lovely Palm Terrace Rosé of Pinot Noir and an exquisite Husic Vineyards Late Harvest Semillon. The Husic family is proud to share these beautiful wines with you. "The mature vines at this steep west-facing vineyard continue to astonish us with beautiful, complex, aromatic and intense wines. The steady and moderate 2016 vintage provided the soil for one of the best, if not the best, Pinot Noirs we have ever made. Aromatics of raspberry pie, cherry pit, sassafras, vanilla, and clove soar from the glass. The rich palate is true to Pinot Noir in that it is lithe, supple, and fresh, with light tannins framing the elegant, yet intense flavors. The long finish features a vivid display of red fruits and floral notes." 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 4 3246 20 Kanzler, Sonoma Coast 2014 120.00 386 0 When Steve and Lynda Kanzler established their vineyard in 1996, they were one of the first to plant grapes in the Sebastopol Hills in western Sonoma County. They moved there in 1994 with the desire to raise their family in the country. They fell in love with the property, which at the time was the site of a very old and barely-producing apple orchard. Wanting to make better use of the land, they explored the idea of planting grapes. Many grape growers thought Sebastopol Hills was too cold and windy for vineyards. But their next door neighbor, Perry Kozlowski of Kozlowski Farms, whose family has been growing apples and berries in Sonoma County since 1949, thought otherwise. “You can grow apples in 48 states,” he said. “You can grow premium wine grapes in about three places in the world. You’re living in one of them. If I was you, I’d plant grapes.” The 2014 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir practically leaps out of the glass with aromas of fresh strawberry, raspberry and earthy notes of tobacco and green tea. On the palate, it opens with boysenberry and blueberry fruit balanced seamlessly with well integrated French oak, contributing youthful, grippy but smooth and pleasing tannins. A burst of vivid black tea, Bing cherry, leather, cocoa and sweet oak explodes in the mid-palate and continues through to a long and lingering finish. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 4 3590 20 Kosta Brown, "Gaps's Crown Vineyard," Sonoma Coast 2017 275.00 254 0 First planted in 2002, Gap’s Crown includes 106 acres of Pinot Noir and 32 acres of Chardonnay and is located in the cool and windy Petaluma Gap in southwestern Sonoma County. A section of about 37 planted acres will be leased to Kosta Browne, allowing the Sebastopol winery to launch an estate-vineyard program. Located in the foothills of the Sonoma Mountain, east of Rohnert Park, the vineyard offers a variety of soil types at elevations ranging from 300 to 800 feet above sea level. “It doesn’t get pounded by cold air,” which is typical in the often gusty Petaluma Gap. Many of the vines also sit above the fog level, which benefits ripening. “It’s kind of a magic mix,” “The vineyard produces some pretty intense fruit.”-KB 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 2558 20 La Crema, Monterey 2017 52.00 282 0 La Crema was founded in 1979 and quickly established itself as a pioneer for intensely flavored Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from cool climate. Continuing this tradition, La Crema pursues the ultimate expression of the Russian River Valley, Carneros and Anderson Valley by handcrafting wines of distinctive flavor which achieve elegance and balance. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 7 3438 20 Lemelson, "Thea's Selection," Willamette Valley 2016 80.00 287 0 Lemelson Vineyards began as a dream — a dream to create a winery that celebrates innovation in technology, sustainability in agriculture, and tradition in winemaking. Eric Lemelson started Lemelson Vineyards with the intention of building something that would not only serve their consumers, but also the longevity of the pristine state that he calls home. Utilizing organic farming methods and gravity flow production, they craft estate grown Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Chardonnay, and Riesling from some of the finest vineyards in the Willamette Valley. Since the inaugural release of the 1999 vintage in October 2001, Lemelson Vineyards is dedicated to producing some of the world’s finest Pinot noir. As Lemelson's house cuvee, Thea’s Selection is a blend of fruit sourced from all seven of their organic, estate vineyards that span three different Willamette Valley AVAs. As such, it is a wonderful representation of the vintage across all of the sites. The nose is inviting with black cherry, red currant and blackberry fruit that is nuanced by subtle spice notes of black licorice, black tea, cinnamon and graham cracker. The rich, silky tannins give in to a long and robust finish that leaves the taste of strawberries and cocoa lingering on the palate. 750 1 0 20.00 1 32 2 jpg 85 3578 20 Lingua Franca, Hope Well Vineyard, Eola Amity Hills 2016 140.00 703 0 The fruit for this wine was grown by Mimi Casteel using her thoughtful farming practices. The vineyard is situated in one of the prime areas of the Eola-Amity Hills, not far from our own Lingua Franca Estate, enjoying the same elevation, macro-climate and soils as we have. The fruit selected for this special cuvée comes from Dijon Clone Pinot Noir 667 and Pommard. PN 667 tends to add structure, with floral and spicy notes. Sorted on a vibrating table before the whole clusters of lignified stems and perfectly ripened fruit were fed bin by bin, not pumped, into the small format stainless steel fermenting tanks of between 2 to 5-ton capacity. Hope Well is about 40% whole cluster. Fermentation began with gentle pump overs. Foulage and pigeage were done traditionally by foot as needed. After fermentation, the wines aged in a combination of 20% new and 80% old French oak barriques for 12 months and 5 months in tank prior to bottling. The wine has a round, mouth-filling texture with rose petal and exotic spice aromas, and red fruit flavors that continue through the finish. 94pts | Tim Fish, Wine Spectator “Sleek and trim, with expressive cherry and black tea aromas and steely raspberry, stony mineral and sweet anise flavors that persist toward refined tannins" 94pts | Josh Raynolds, Vinous 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 6 3336 20 "Blue Ridge Reserve," Santa Lucia Highlands 2018 60.00 281 1 This wine is the product of a partnership between Sara Floyd and the Pisoni Family, who came together from different aspects of the wine business. Sara is a Master Sommelier, the owner of Swirl Wine Brokers and has a long history in wine and restaurants. The Pisoni Family is known for its eponymous vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands and for Pisoni Estate and Lucia wines. Deep ruby in color, the wine starts out with an exuberant display of wild strawberry, rich raspberry, earl grey tea, and dried rose petals. The cool summer temperatures of the Santa Lucia Highlands create these expansive aromatics. While the rugged, granite, soils deliver the wine’s texture—layers of tannins unfold into a broad finish with great depth of flavor and bright acidity. 750 1 0 16.00 1 30 2 jpg 79 3286 20 Lyric by Etude, Santa Barbara 2018 48.00 231 0 Etude has handcrafted its celebrated Pinot Noir from the Carneros region for over 30 years and is now continuing its steadfast study of the varietal in the famed Santa Barbara County appellation. Influenced by the minimal-intervention philosophy of its parent winery, Lyric by Etude is an authentic expression of Santa Barbara Pinot Noir. Crafted to provide a pure sense of place, Lyric is reflective of the region’s nuances with its signature silky texture and bright red fruit flavor profile. Ruby in the glass, the rich color alludes to the impactful nose, packed with bright aromas of fresh strawberry and ripe cherry that are beautifully balanced out by warm baking spice notes. This youthful Pinot Noir delivers fresh, robust red berry flavors while still maintaining substantial weight on the palate. The bright acidity, balanced structure and velvety tannins make this inviting Pinot Noir a wonderful accompaniment for an assortment of dishes. 750 1 0 12.00 1 30 2 jpg 85 3460 20 Maggy Hawk, "Jolie," Anderson Valley 2015 80.00 537 0 Adversity often brings greatness to Pinot Noir, the most difficult of grapes to master. Greatness also arises in champion racehorses, something Proprietor Barbara Banke recognized in the gifted Maggy Hawk, a winning thoroughbred honored with this Pinot Noir effort from the deep end of Mendocino’s Anderson Valley, mere moments from the Pacific Ocean. This southeast facing block is planted to clone 115. Year-in, year-out, Jolie emerges as the most nuanced, floral and pretty Pinot Noir from the vineyard, a nod to the striking beauty of Maggy Hawk’s long-limbed, dark brown filly. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 7 3377 20 Maranges 1er Cru "La Fussière," Bruno Colin 2015 110.00 769 1 Michel Colin was the third generation in his family to grow grapes in Burgundy within the prestigious Côte de Beaune. When he retired in 2003, he handed the property over to his sons, Philippe and Bruno, who split the holdings between them to bottle under separate labels. With the help of his wife, Stéphanie, Bruno farms eight hectares of land, in thirty different parcels scattered over five communes, with sometimes as little as just a few rows per parcel. To farm under these circumstances is quintessentially Burgundian, where the old Napoleonic codes of inheritance (evolved from Roman law) divide property equally among offspring. Parcels farmed by any one family continue to get smaller and smaller as they are distributed among relatives. He bottles Chassagne-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet, Saint-Aubin, Santenay, and Maranges. In the old family winery in the center of the village of Chassagne-Montrachet, he vinifies nineteen cuvées separately, twelve of which are premier cru! He uses traditional vinification methods and ages his wines anywhere from twelve to eighteen months in barrel, though he tends to vinify each parcel in a similar fashion. Bruno’s style shows beautiful balance, both aromatically and texturally, while showcasing the delicate minerality and nuanced complexity of each vineyard. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 2 3406 20 Mercurey Vieilles Vignes, Jeannin Naltet 2017 65.00 229 0 In 2011, Benoît Eschard, an “Arts & Métiers” engineering graduate, decided to take over Domaine Jeannin-Naltet in Mercurey, from his uncle who was looking for a successor. The domaine has always been the embodiment of Burgundy tradition and spirit, but Benoît’s motivation for taking it over was a more personal one. He was taking on, not just a family heritage, but a vineyard, in the heart of a celebrated terroir, which needed to be tamed. This profound, humble connection to the land through the vine is, in fact, both the realisation of a personal quest and the driving force that would bring out the very best of the domaine’s unique selection of plots, with an eye turned to the future. The vineyard this wine is sourced from lies below the Clos des Grands Voyens. It is planted on almost flat land with a rich, deep soil due to erosion from the hill above. Expressive and fruity, this Mercurey wine discloses aromas of raspberry and cherry. It is a light, fresh wine with very soft tannins, making it easy to drink even when young. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 11 3622 20 Merry Edwards, "Olivet Lane," Russian River Valley 2017 199.00 268 0 During her thirty-three year winemaking career, Merry Edwards has earned the universal respect of winemaking peers, grape growers and academicians. A self-described perfectionist, she has constantly refined her vineyard practices, wines and techniques. Grapes from the Sonoma Coast appellation give them the opportunity to create a blend unique in its cool-climate profile. For this wine, they source vineyards located to the south and west of the town of Sebastopol. These sites are directly influenced by fog and breezes emanating from San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean Located on western benchland of the Santa Rosa Plain, Olivet Lane produces grapes coveted by the finest winemakers in Sonoma County. This heritage property is one of the oldest existing Pinot vineyards in the appellation and has been widely recognized as a prime example of the classic style of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. In 1973, the Pellegrini family purchased 65 acres of apple, prune and olive orchards on West Olivet Lane. At the recommendation of Dr. Amand Kasimatis at UC Davis, they planted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, developing one of the first vineyards in the region devoted exclusively to these two varieties. The land has well-drained, gravelly, clay loam soil and a cool Region I climate. The Martini clone of Pinot, selected for this site, is recognized today as uniquely reflecting the classic features of the appellation’s terroir. Merry says, “I rely on Olivet Lane to produce Pinot Noir with focused Bing cherry flavors and plush texture.” She has produced a single vineyard bottling from Olivet Lane every year since founding the Merry Edwards brand in 1997. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 5 2462 20 Merry Edwards, Sonoma Coast 2017 140.00 664 0 During her thirty-three year winemaking career, Merry Edwards has earned the universal respect of winemaking peers, grape growers and academicians. A self-described perfectionist, she has constantly refined her vineyard practices, wines and techniques. Grapes from the Sonoma Coast appellation give them the opportunity to create a blend unique in its cool-climate profile. For this wine, they source vineyards located to the south and west of the town of Sebastopol. These sites are directly influenced by fog and breezes emanating from San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 12 3613 20 Mile Post 71, McMinnville - Willamette Valley 2017 45.00 304 0 Mile Marker Wine Co. was started by Lisa Bonet and Bobby Flournoy. With the help of Winemaker Rob Stuart, support from their friends and family, and a little bit of good luck, they launched their little winery in January of 2010. Found along side every road they travel, denoting how far you’ve gone or have yet to go, those green Mile Marker signs help take you on your trip. Mile Marker Wine Co. takes you on a different journey, one that allows an affordable opportunity to taste wines from around the world, made to emulate the best characteristics of each region. Each Mile Marker number on the bottle corresponds to the location of the vineyards where the grapes were grown, giving that sense of place they love about wine. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 12 3586 20 Miura, Pisoni Vineyard - Santa Lucia Highlands 2015 160.00 247 0 This property has become the most talked about Pinot Noir property in California for good reason. The wines from this vineyard have an intensity and richness unmatched by any other Pinot Noirs anywhere. The vineyard is tucked among the hills and dry creek beds of the southern part of the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey. It lies in a secluded corner of the hills separating the Salinas Valley from Big Sur and the Monterey Coast. Vines are planted in several small blocks on what appears to be gravel and sand eroded down from the mountains. The blocks are whimsically named after people, objects and family members— “Camper,” “Mommy’s,” “Elias,” to name a few (the grapes for this wine come from the “Camper” and “Hermanos” sections). The site is dry, almost arid, but not particularly hot. Most of the vineyard faces east to southeast, capturing more morning than afternoon sun. The intensity with which this vineyard is farmed is unmatched in the Highlands, or anywhere else for that matter. The Pisoni is fermented with a measure of whole bunches in the bottom of the tank, and punched down by hand. A modest amount of tannin from adding some stems to the fermentation brings some refreshing grip to the mouth feel, and keeps the wine from being too soft. 750 0 0 1 2 jpg 4 2927 20 Morey-Saint-Denis, Domaine Tortochot 2015 120.00 715 0 Domaine Tortochot is a fourth generation family owned vineyard with a total of 11 hectares. Located in Gevrey-Chambertin appellation and Morey St. Denis appellation within the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy. The Domaine practices organic viticulture and respects their land and vineyards to obtain the maximum “terroir” expression possible in their wines. Domaine Tortochot produces outstanding wines that are characterized by their elegance and balance. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 3 3574 20 Nuits St. Georges, "Les St. Georges," Louis Jadot 2014 175.00 729 0 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 4 3379 20 Nuits-St-Georges, "Vielles Vignes," Daniel Rion 2015 70.00 697 0 Created in 1955 by Daniel Rion, this family-owned estate began with only two hectares of vines located in the commune of Vosne Romanée, left to Daniel by his paternal grandfather. Until 1978, Daniel sold his wine to Burgundian negociants. In the late seventies, his sons joined the business, bringing new parcels of vines with them. A new winery was built with a larger cellar and a tasting room. Today, the domaine consists of eighteen hectares of vineyards with eighteen appellations in six villages of the Côte des Nuits and the Hautes-Côtes: Prémeaux, Nuits Saint Georges, Vosne Romanée, Chambolle Musigny, Vougeot and Marey-les-Fussey. The estate’s old vines, from 25 to 65 years old, were selected for the quality of their fruits: small berries with thick skins that guarantee deeply colored, complex wines with refined tannins. The small output of the estate allows the winemaker to select grapes of great quality, naturally concentrated and balanced. New plantings are carried out with seedlings selected for the small size of the berries they will produce. Harvest is carried out exclusively by hand. They collect whole bunches, preserving the integrity of grapes and their potential aromatic qualities until their arrival in fermenting room. This manual method also allows for sorting in the vineyard, and to the integration of only healthy and ripe fruit. 375 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 6 375 ml 1693 20 Oyster Bay, Marlborough 2017 45.00 230 0 The name of the winery comes from Oyster Bay on the tip of New Zealand's South Island. The grapes are grown in Marlborough's Central Wairu Valley, whose maritime climate helps the wines maintain balance. 750 0 0 15 41 2 jpg 11 3485 20 Paul Hobbs, Sonoma Coast 2016 110.00 821 0 750 0 0 1 29 2 6 3547 20 Peay, Savoy Vineyard, Anderson Valley 2016 90.00 266 0 "The Savoy Pinot noir is the most easy-going and fruit oriented of our single vineyard Pinot noirs fully capturing the qualities that have made Savoy one of the greatest Pinot noir vineyards in the New World. Though our interpretation might be a touch less hedonistic than most producers of this wine, there is a certain come hither quality I find very compelling. The aroma on the 2017 Savoy is captivating with sexy rose petal and dried leaf components complementing the iron, dark cherry, and red apple skin flavors. The mid palate is fresh with medium body and silky but light tannins. This is an incredibly easy wine to love and is pleasurable right now and will be for the next 10+ years." 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 5 3474 20 Pisoni, "Estate," Santa Lucia Highlands 2017 199.00 833 0 First planted by Gary Pisoni in 1982, and now managed by his son Mark, Pisoni Vineyards consists of small vineyard blocks arranged on and around the ridges of the mountainous landscape. Ranging in size from one-half to 17 acres, the vineyard blocks perch at an altitude of 1,300 feet in the granite-laced mountains of the coastal Santa Lucia Range. The Pisoni Family produces essentially one wine per year under this label. The wine is a blend from several blocks on the Estate and is handcrafted to best represent the vineyard and spirit of the Pisoni Family. Jeff Pisoni, Gary’s other son, is the winemaker for the Pisoni Estate wines. Total production ranges from 500 to 800 cases annually, depending on yield. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 5 3575 20 Pommard 1er Cru Clos de la Commaraine, Louis Jadot 2016 160.00 728 0 The commune of Pommard produces only red wines, and has no Grands Crus. The Clos de la Commaraine is 10 acres near the village of Pommard, east-facing and situated on deep, well-drained, stony soil. The vineyard is a monopole of Louis Jadot. In winemaking, Pinot Noir grapes are destemmed and fermented in vats for up to one month, and then the wine is matured in oak barrels for 15 to 18 months. This rich, masculine wine is typical of Pommard. It should be cellared for at least 5 years before opening and is capable of developing in the bottle for 10 to 15 years. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 6 3144 20 Radio Coteau "La Neblina," Sonoma Coast 2014 130.00 332 0 Radio-Coteau works closely with select cool-climate coastal vineyard sites in Western Sonoma County and Anderson Valley to produce wines with vibrant, balanced fruit and a distinct sense of place. Focus is on organic, detailed viticulture in conjunction with a natural, non-interventionist approach in the cellar to more accurately reflect the unique character of each site and season. The winery is situated in Sebastopol, and the estate vineyard is located in the hills above Occidental, California. Spanish for “fog,” la neblina rolls in from the Pacific Ocean to blanket and cool the coastal Pinot Noir vineyards of western Sonoma County. The La Neblina Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is comprised of a complex array of five West County coastal sites on Goldridge soil. Organically grown fruit, hand punchdowns, native fermentations, 15% whole cluster inclusion, and a 17–month élevage in just under a third new tight-grain French oak barrels enhance the natural charm of this wine. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 2 3320 20 Raptor Ridge, "Estate," Chehalem Mountains 2013 94.00 239 0 Named for its location on a ridge in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, Raptor Ridge is a haven for the raptors native to the area. They specialize in hand-grown single vineyard Pinot Noir sourced from a rich tapestry of select Willamette Valley sites plus their own estate, Tuscowallame. They create intriguing wines by blending intuition honed over 20 vintages with the methodical approach of maintaining hundreds of separate lots. The result is an array of vineyard-specific barrels, providing diversity and nuance to the final cellar-crafted cuvées. Fruit for this bottling came entirely from the east-southeast facing Tuscowallame Vineyard. First planted in 2001, the estate vineyard is composed of a variety of Pinot noir clones including: 115, Wadenswil, 667, 114, 777 and Pommard. This is a wine that is not coy or shy. The nose is outgoing with ripe cherry fruit, sweet pomegranate, and plum, with soft notes of clove cigar, and musk. The curvy palate is lush with red cherry, Italian plum, and Marionberries. Note the pleasing floral qualities of lavender, and brown spices like nutmeg, pepper, and chestnut. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 10 3576 20 Résonance, "Découverte," Dundee Hills - Willamette Valley 2015 110.00 702 0 This Pinot Noir features fruit from the winery's second estate, Découverte Vineyard. The grapes are handpicked in the heart of the rolling landscape of the Dundee Hills wine region and defined by the red-fruit character and freshness typical of their volcanic Jory soils. At The Winery, the grapes are hand-sorted, and fermentation and maceration takes place in small lots, to retain the natural, original character of the site and vintage. A brilliant and nice ruby-red color. The nose is delicate, floral, and fruity, with tart red fruit, wild flowers, and noble wood. The wine is fine, subtle in the mouth. The tension is balanced by a delicate tannic structure, and the palate is full of fruits—raspberry, strawberry, blackberry—and spices, including pepper and clove. Minerality dominates a long and elegant finale. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3234 20 Résonance, Willamette Valley 2017 70.00 286 0 Résonance is Maison Louis Jadot's first wine project outside of Burgundy, France, since their founding in 1859. This Pinot Noir is their debut release from the beautiful, tree-lined Résonance Vineyard, in the Yamhill-Carlton wine region. From un-grafted vines first planted in 1981, this single vineyard bottling shows the elegance and complexity Oregon Pinot Noirs are famous for. The Résonance Vineyard is situated in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, which is located within Oregon’s Willamette Valley, just west of Carlton at the foothills of the Coast Range. It is a 13-hectare property, with 8 hectares of the vineyard planted to Pinot Noir. The vineyard sits on a convex portion of a low, west-east oriented ridge emerging out of the Coast Range and lies at an altitude of 80 to 150 meters above sea level. Soils are primarily Willakenzie (old sedimentary deposits) and Yamhill (ancient submarine basaltic soil). With its non-grafted rootstocks planted in 1981, the dry-farmed vineyard is one of the oldest in the Willamette Valley. Nice ruby red color, spices well supported by a nice and subtle “boise” with well-structured tannins and minerality. Still very young, the wine exhibits excellent ageing potential, it will only get better with age. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 11 3526 20 Robert Foley, Hudson Vineyard, Carneros - Napa Valley 2013 140.00 169 0 Unique for the Carneros region of the southern Napa Valley, the Pinot Noir from the Hudson Vineyard is more Burgundian in character than the norm. Benefiting from the extreme drainage of upper Carneros volcanic geology, the stressed vines have imparted fantastic character to the fruit while the cool proximity to the Bay keeps the natural acidity in perfect balance. Discover classic Pinot notes of bright berry, tea leaf and toasty briar with notes of game and bacon. The mid-palate is delightfully even with perfectly integrated flavors, which resolve in a mouthwatering finish where the flavors linger. With alcohol in the mid 12s, there is no sensation of heat, simply a beckoning for another mouthful. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 140 20 Robert Sinskey, Carneros 2015 85.00 276 0 Robert Sinskey began his winemaking career after a brief stint in advertising. His father called for help with his fledgling wine growing business. He says that a week had passed before he discovered that winemaking had become his obsession. His philosophy is that “wine is not an athletic event.” The goal is to make “pure wines of character that pair well with cuisine.” 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3105 20 Saintsbury, Carneros 2016 80.00 385 0 Saintsbury was founded in 1981 by winemakers Richard Ward and David Graves. The winery was named in honor of George Saintsbury, an English man of letters best known for his Notes on a Cellar Book. The winery established its reputation early on for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and has long been a champion of these varieties. A perfumed nose of rose petals, dark cherry, rhubarb and wild strawberry with white pepper and cinnamon spice notes. Lovely fresh rose, cherry, plum and cola on the palate with hints of five spice and cardamom. Smooth, silky tannins with a long succulent finish. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3069 20 Sandhi, Santa Rita Hills 2017 74.00 303 0 Sandhi is a small production California winery focusing on select vineyards from the Sta. Rita Hills in Santa Barbara County and was founded in 2010 by Rajat Parr, the wine director for Michael Mina Restaurants, Charles Banks, the former owner of Jonata and Screaming Eagle, and esteemed winemaker, Sashi Moorman. Sandhi represents a union essential to the production of wine: the collaboration between man, earth, and vine. The willing participation of all three elements is necessary to make great wine, and the winegrower must make this collaboration rich and nourishing for all involved. An understanding of these joint efforts informs Sandhi’s exploration of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines throughout the Santa Barbara County terroir. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 3 2657 20 Santenay, "Champ Claude," Lucien Muzard et Fils 2014 94.00 640 0 In his day, Lucien Muzard put together a remarkable string of vineyard holdings in Santenay (with tiny lots in Chassagne rouge territory and in Pommard). He began at a young age with three-quarters of an acre of vines, replanted 12 acres, then went on to buy additional parcels as they came up over the years. In 1995 he handed over the reins to his sons Claude and Hervé, who immediately began domaine bottling their wine rather than selling it in bulk to négociants. The brothers trace their lineage back to 1645 in Santenay, and they see themselves as part of a long tradition of farmers. Their decision to work biodynamically was taken to sustain and improve the health of their land, while the decision to ferment with native yeast and to bottle without fining or filtration was taken so each wine could most transparently express its origins. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 1 3096 20 Savigny-Les-Beaune, "Les Serpentières-1er Cru," Jean-Jacques Girard 2015 98.00 657 0 In 1529, Jean Girard began culvating his vineyard in Savigny les Beaune. Today, Jean-jacques Girard and his children immortalize the tradition by farming a domain extending over 12 hectares and divided among Village of Savigny, Pernand-Vergelesses and Volnay. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 4 2529 20 Schug, Sonoma Coast 2017 65.00 298 0 Founded in 1980, Schug Carneros Estate Winery is the showcase and life-long dream of one of California's most celebrated winemakers. Walter Schug's reputation blossomed during his tenure as Founding Winemaker for Joseph Phelps Vineyards in the 1970s, where he made California’s first proprietary Bordeaux-Style blend (Insignia) and legendary vineyard designated Cabernets (Backus and Eisele Vineyards). 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 6 3189 20 Shane "La Reine," Sonoma Coast 2012 89.00 256 0 Shane Finley, in the summer of 2001, left New York City and his job with an insurance company to begin his winemaking career as a harvest intern. Without any formal training in wine he started at the bottom and began to work his way up. In 2003, Shane became the Cellar Master at Copain Custom Crush. He began working closely with clients such as Dumol, Carlisle, and Pisoni Estate as well as Copain Wines' winemaker Wells Guthrie. After the 2004 vintage Shane moved to Paul Hobbs Winery and took the position of Assistant Winemaker, where he became versed in Paul Hobbs' small-lot, micro-winemaking style for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. In the spring of 2006, Shane accepted the position of Associate Winemaker at Kosta Browne Wines. Over the next six years Shane worked diligently crafting Kosta Browne's renowned Pinot noirs until in March of 2012 he became the winemaker at Lynmar Estate. In his spare time, Shane is the owner and winemaker of Shane Wine Cellars. La Reine has refined aromatics of black and blue fruits with a tinge of baking spices. The wine's core is a dense mix of ripe plum, fennel, and cola. The finish exhibits hints of violets, sandalwood, and ripe cranberry. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 2 2060 20 Soter, Yamhill-Carlton, "Mineral Springs Ranch" 2016 175.00 334 0 Tony Soter founded Etude Wines in 1982 and its name, "study," describes his reverence for the ongoing learning process that is winegrowing. Early in his career, Soter realized that there were innumerable variables that guided a wine towards excellence. He learned to distinguish between winemaking techniques fundamental to quality, and those that imparted a winemaker's signature. He sought to understand the voice of each individual vineyard, to maximize its expression in the glass. In the mid-1980s, Soter began working as a consulting winemaker in the Napa Valley, assisting luminaries such as Araujo, Niebaum-Coppola, Shafer, Spottswoode, Viader and Dalle Valle. After years of mentoring and encouraging some of Napa Valley's most respected growers and winemakers, he ended his consulting roles to focus exclusively on Soter Vineyards and his family. Apart from being a culmination, Soter Vineyards is also a beginning. Soter Vineyards is a family enterprise; with the eventual help of their children, Oregon natives Tony and Michelle Soter hope to establish a legacy of august, estate-bottled wines, in the fashion of the great family domaines of Burgundy. The wines will consistently express this exotic flare, be sappy and fruit-driven, with lovely acid balance. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3206 20 St. Innocent, "Freedom Hill," Willamette Valley 2015 99.00 259 0 St. Innocent began as an idea conceived in a moment of passion and inspiration in 1983. Mark Vlossak spent the next five years studying, taking classes, and apprenticing with Oregon wine pioneer, Fred Arterberry. In 1988, St. Innocent Winery was founded. Their goal is to produce wines that respect the quality and tradition of the Old World in one of the newest and most exciting wine growing regions on the planet: Oregon's Willamette Valley. Freedom Hill is located in the foothills of the coast range 10 miles southwest of Salem, Oregon. It has a southeast exposure at an elevation of 450 – 500’ and benefits from heat rising off the valley floor. The wine comes from a block at the north edge of the vineyard planted in 2004 with Pommard and Wadenswil clones on well-drained, silty clay loam. The site is relatively warm from daytime heat that rises up the large, flat valley below. This develops rich skin tannins. Although it is protected by strong coastal winds by hills to the west, the proximity to the Oregon Coast range cools the site at night and maintains good acidity in the wine. This combination of tannin and acidity produces Pinot noirs with great structure. Capturing that intensity and revealing the nuances of the terroir (clay-like earthiness, dried flowers, dark spices) without excess tannins is the key to making great Freedom Hill Pinot noir. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3535 20 Taittinger, "Les Folies de la Marquetterie," Champagne 185.00 20 0 The House’s very first “Champagne de Domaine”, Les Folies de la Marquetterie is a blend of Chardonnays (45%) and Pinot Noirs (55%), made exclusively from grapes grown at the Folies vineyard that overlooks Château de la Marquetterie, the birthplace of the Taittinger family champagne. A “green” harvest is carried out on the selected plots of vines to ensure the fruit offers optimum sweetness and aromatic maturity. After harvesting, only the juice from the first pressing is reserved. Each plot is vinified in small volumes and certain batches in oak casks. The bottles are aged for five years to bring this wine to complete harmony. The body is deep yellow in colour with golden highlights. The bubbles are fine and delicate. The intense, highly fruity bouquet leads onto peach and apricot jam aromas with subtle hints of toasted brioche and vanilla. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied, smooth and fruity with dominant peach flavours. The distinctive and expressive finish delivers lightly woody notes. Les Folies de la Marquetterie is a full-flavoured and harmonious champagne distinguished by its immense richness and complexity. 750 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 5 3557 20 Trisaetum, Willamette Valley 2017 65.00 143 0 In 2003, Andrea and James Frey purchased this now steep and rocky piece of land, moved their young children to Oregon, planted a vineyard and founded Trisaetum (tris-say-tum) in one of the few places where climate, soil, and entrepreneurial spirit combine to produce some very special wines. Two years later in 2005, they found another piece of land twenty minutes away on Ribbon Ridge, cleared the site, planted a second vineyard and built the winery where Trisaetum’s wines are made today. The name Trisaetum is an amalgam of James and Andrea’s children---Tristen and Tatum. "Fashioned entirely from estate-grown grapes, this muscular and substantial wine melds together black cherry, black olive and sweet spices. It's firm and polished, with almost silky tannins, and punches well above its price. Drink this now through the next decade." – P.G. Wine Enthusiast, December 2018 Issue 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 5 3119 20 Twomey, Russian River Valley 2017 120.00 359 0 Continuous improvement – or the notion that our best wines are still ahead of us – has always been the driving force at Silver Oak. At Twomey, this philosophy is combined with experience and a sense of curiosity to craft Pinot Noir, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc from outstanding vineyards and growing regions from California to Oregon. The 2013 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is a well-structured expression of classic Russian River Valley fruit. It has a dark red-rose color and a nose that displays succulent fruit, violets, strawberry jam and a hint of rosemary. The wine has a fruit-sweet attack and a voluptuous mouth-feel with echoes of berry fruit and cola on the palate followed by a long finish with a touch of grip. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 5 3388 20 Van Duzer, Willamette Valley 2016 50.00 388 0 Proprietors Carl and Marilynn Thoma were among the first to choose the foothills at the mouth of the Van Duzer Corridor to create their family estate in 1998, intrigued by the potential of the microclimate and its ability to produce evocative Pinot Noir. Perched atop a knoll surrounded by vines on three sides, the site is situated in the gateway of the Corridor, a deep gap in the Oregon Coastal Range that draws brisk air from the Pacific Ocean into the Willamette Valley. The flagship estate’s 83.7 planted acres are in the direct path of marine winds, and benefit from the cooling gusts that moderate the temperatures over the vineyard, guaranteeing a long, beneficial growing season year after year. Enchantingly aromatic, the nose displays a range of fragrance: fruity scents of cherry & wild strawberry, herbal notes of basil, ground pepper and eucalyptus, along with barrel-driven aromas of bourbon, vanilla and a touch of cinnamon. Bright and sweet with notable weight on entry and a high-toned mid-palate of pie cherry complemented by silky tannins. The lengthy finish is layered with cherry cola, brown sugar and molasses. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 16 1563 20 Veuve Clicquot, Brut, NV, Champagne 80.00 10 0 Phillipe Clicquot established a wine merchant business under the name Clicquot in 1772. In 1805, Phillipe's son died, leaving behind a widow ("veuve" in French). She defied tradition, and took control of the business.The house took the name Veuve Clicquot in 1810. 375 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 7 375 ml 989 20 Veuve Clicquot "Rosé Reserve," Brut, Champagne 2012 225.00 9 0 Phillipe Clicquot established a wine merchant business under the name Clicquot in 1772. In 1805, Phillipe's son died, leaving behind a widow ("veuve" in French). She defied tradition, and took control of the business.The house took the name Veuve Clicquot in 1810. Wine Spectator - 88. 750 0 0 5 5 3 jpg 3 1344 20 Veuve Clicquot, Brut, NV, Champagne 140.00 8 0 Phillipe Clicquot established a wine merchant business under the name Clicquot in 1772. In 1805, Phillipe's son died, leaving behind a widow ("veuve" in French). She defied tradition, and took control of the business.The house took the name Veuve Clicquot in 1810. 750 0 0 0.00 5 5 3 jpg 6 3600 20 Volnay 1er Cru "Les Pitures," Blain Gagnard 2017 160.00 261 0 Domaine Blain-Gagnard was formed in 1980 when Jean-Marc Blain married Claudine Gagnard, youngest daughter of Jacques and Marie-Josèphe Gagnard of Domaine Gagnard-Delagrange. The couple runs this venerable domaine with the help of their son Marc-Antonin. They now control 20.5 acres of vines in Chassagne-Montrachet, including holdings in three grands crus: Le Montrachet, Bâtard-Montrachet, and Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet. Chassagne-Montrachet lies towards the southern end of the Côte de Beaune and is famous for its white wines, although half of its total plantings are in red. In addition to the Grand Crus, Blain-Gagnard’s holdings in Chassagne-Montrachet include two red premier crus and four white premier crus along with small holdings in Volnay and Pommard. The vineyards are farmed by lutte raisonée (“reasoned struggle”). Volnay Les Pitures 1er Cru is sits at the top of the hill between Clos des Ducs and Champans, two well-known premier crus thanks to the Marquis d’Angerville who owns and produces both. The marly limestone at the top of this hill is different from the rock at the bottom which is hard limestone. The soil gives a more robust Volnays, more Pommard in character. Volnay is often described as silky and elegant but the wines can vary in style depending on the soil and elevation of the vineyard. They have a high percentage of limestone and show classic Volnay character of perfume and finesse. Les Pitures is robust and opulent with violet, plum, earth and a subtle spiciness. Aged in neutral oak barrels. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 6 3468 20 Volnay Clos des Chênes 1er Cru, Xavier Monnot 2015 225.00 507 0 Xavier Monnot is a leading producer in Meursault whose winemaking style emphasizes purity of fruit, elegance, and complexity. Xavier can trace his mother’s ancestors, the Monniers, back to 1723, with six generations of winegrowing. Xavier took over in 1994 after completing his oenological studies and began replanting parcels with a combination of selection massale from old vines and new clones, and updated the cellar with modern equipment. Prior to the release of the 2005 vintage, the property was known as Domaine René Monnier (Xavier's grandfather). Domaine Xavier Monnot is a 42 acre estate in Meursault with vineyards stretching from Beaune to Maranges in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Sixty percent of the Domaine's production is white with holdings in Monthelie, Meursault, Chassagne-Montrachet, and Puligny-Montrachet. Important white wine premier crus include Meursault Charmes, Chassagne-Montrachet En Remilly, and Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières. The remaining 40% of Xavier's production is in red with climats spread across four villages: Beaune, Pommard, Volnay, and Maranges. Red premier crus include Beaune Les Cent-Vignes, Beaune Les Toussaints, Volnay Clos des Chênes, and the monopole Maranges Clos de La Fussière. Xavier believes in maintaining an average vine age of 30 to 40 years and practices lutte raisonnée (“reasoned struggle”). 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 4 3236 20 Volnay "St. François," Domaine Roblet-Monnot 2015 150.00 599 0 Pascal Roblet can trace his roots in Volnay to the 1600’s on his mother’s side and four generations on his father’s side. The majority of Domaine Roblet-Monnot’s holdings are in Volnay, 6 hectares, but there is a lone parcel in Pommard named Arvelet. Pascal’s conversion to biodynamic viticulture in 1997 along with his high density planting, 12,000 vines per hectare and very low yields, 30-35 hectoliters per hectare, are part of what has transformed his domaine into one of the leading sources of wine from these communes. The St. François bottling is a blend of several vineyards in Volnay, some of which are premier cru. Rich and dense on the palate, this wine offers tremendous value. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 2 3442 21 Bedrock, "Old Vine," Sonoma Valley 2018 65.00 395 0 Bedrock Wine Co. was started in 2007 by Morgan Twain-Peterson. Working out of a small converted chicken coop in a friend’s backyard, Morgan focused on making personality-filled wines wrought from a small array of thoughtfully farmed vineyards. Over time the chicken coop and its outdoor fermenters and tiny basket press gave way to production at another friend’s winery and eventually to the “elegant” tin-sided warehouse that is now called home. In addition, after six years of working alone the winery welcomed Chris Cottrell as a partner-in-crime along with a small, dedicated staff of highly decent human beings. The winery is first and foremost a mission-driven operation dedicated to preserving and rehabilitating old vineyards around California. These vineyards, planted by California’s viticultural pioneers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, are living pieces of history. Not only are we able to draw inspiration from those very pioneers, but we get to actually use the materials they planted, which have survived two world wars, Prohibition and a constantly changing marketplace. If something has been growing for over 100 years it not only deserves the respect of us humans, but it probably makes some darn good wine too. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 3449 21 Dashe Cellars, Dry Creek 2017 65.00 433 0 This wine is a classic example of a Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, grown in one of the best regions in California for growing Zinfandel. The coastal fog in the morning combined with afternoon heat makes for ideal ripening conditions, resulting in a wine with great balance and intense fruit flavors. The wine is made from fruit grown on five small family-owned vineyards in the center and north of the Dry Creek Valley. The wine shows a bright acidity from the cool ripening conditions, which blends perfectly with the forward fruit from the vineyards and results in a particularly complex, lovely, and balanced wine. The wine was fermented using only the natural yeast population on the grapes—a tradition at Dashe Cellars—and the resulting wine shows off the terroir of the vineyards beautifully. The wine was aged for 10 months in older French oak barrels, including 900-gallon French oak casks that allow for the softness of oak aging without adding excessive oak flavors. There is also about 4% of Petite Sirah, for structure and aging potential. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 2 3338 21 Elyse, "Nero Misto," Napa Valley 2015 65.00 423 0 Like a hippo on a tightrope, the 2012 Nero Misto (Italian for “Mixed Black”) is big, bodacious, and above all, balanced. Dark purple in color with aromas of wild black fruits, pepper, tar, sage, and earth, this homage to the Cal-Ital blends of early Napa is a serious red wine. On the palate, it shows a full and round mouthfeel with bright fruit flavors of mixed berry, bing cherry and pomegranate. This wine has amazing balance of fruit, earth and soft well-integrated tannins. 62% Zinfandel, 24% Petite Sirah, 8% Barbera, 6% Carignane 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3026 21 Four Vines, "Biker," Paso Robles 2017 44.00 516 0 This zinfandel comes from the hills of Westside Paso Robles from Dusi and Preston vineyards, where rocky calcareous soils result in low yield vines, producing fruit of intense concentration. Paso Robles, known for its extreme heat, stark soils and chilly nights, is an excellent growing region for Zinfandel. These vineyards are between 30 to 70 years old, each yielding only a few clusters with small, intensely flavored berries which lead to an elegant and complex wine Dark berry and spicy notes aromas lead to a palate rich with jammy, ripe plum and blackberry flavors bolstered by a touch of black pepper and sweet, toasted oak. 88% Zinfandel, 12% Petite Syrah 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 5 2977 21 Gamba, Estate Vineyard - Old Vine, Russian River Valley 2013 95.00 322 0 Guided by the family heritage of over six generations of wine grape growing - it is a firm belief at Gamba that wines are made in the vineyard. Every Gamba Zinfandel is an individual expression of the vineyard with each unique vintage. The limited production, hand crafted wines are a tribute to the art of farming, as much as they are to generations of old world, traditional winemaking. As the few remaining old vine vineyards slowly continue to disappear from the landscape, Gamba holds dear and strives to preserve what is quickly becoming a limited commodity - truly Old Vine Zinfandel. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 2585 21 Hartford, "Old Vines," Russian River Valley 2017 75.00 420 0 The Hartford Russian River Valley Zinfandel is a blend of old-vine, dry farmed and low yielding Zinfandel vineyards from the Russian River Valley. These old vineyards (average vineyard age is about 85+ years) offer an impressive articulation of this idiosyncratic varietal. Zinfandel grown in the Russian River Valley is distinctive due to a cool maritime influence. Bright, natural acidity and vibrant fruit aromas and flavors are a result of typically cool fog-laden nights and warm days. These dry-farmed vineyards, planted on low-fertility soils consistently produce wines of exceptional density, and legendary extraction. Wine Spectator - 92. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 4 3582 21 Orin Swift, "Eight Years in the Desert," Napa Valley 2018 80.00 527 0 An opaque core with a red amethyst rim, the wine opens with ripe raspberry and blackberry, dark plum preserves and hints of black pepper and clove. An entry of heft, the palate is packed with blueberry and sweet black cherry along with touch of fresh herbs—thyme, savory and tarragon. Long on the finish, the ripe tannins, a dash of ash, and notes of black tea round out the wine. Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache Aged for 8 months in French and American Oak, 37% New 15.6% Alc. by volume 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 14 3273 21 Piedra Creek, "Benito Dusi Vineyard," Paso Robles 2011 90.00 460 0 Piedra Creek Winery was conceived atop a small knoll in the heart of the MacGregor Vineyard overlooking the beautiful Edna Valley of San Luis Obispo, California. In 1984 Piedra Creek Winery became the smallest bonded winery in the Edna Valley, if not the state of California, originally producing only a couple hundred cases of estate sourced Chardonnay. In 1999, San Floriano vineyard was planted and Piedra Creek Winery moved. The unique and meticulous practice of hand selecting only the highest quality fruit played a fundamental role in the formation of San Floriano vineyard. Today, Piedra Creek Winery Estate wines are sourced exclusively from the San Floriano vineyard, which was planted with the fixe of producing highest quality fruit. Compact spacing and short rows, are all planted within walking distance of the winemaker’s house. This allows for the utmost attention to detail, resulting in the highest quality of farming, cultivation, grape growing and wine making practices, building on the heritage of Piedra Creek. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 3 1696 21 Quivira, Dry Creek Valley 2016 60.00 318 0 The name "Quivira" is taken from a Spanish legend. It is said after the conquest of the Aztec kingdom, the Spanish believed that kingdoms of similar wealth could be found to the north. In 1540, Francisco Vasquez de Coronado set out from Mexico City to find and claim them for Spain. The lack of gold among the Zuni and Hopi tribes discouraged him, but he was lured on by the tales of an Indian named Turk, who described a kingdom to the north, that the Spanish named "Quivira Regnum", where everyone ate from gold dishes. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 5 3493 21 Terra d'Oro, Deaver Ranch, Amador County 2016 60.00 813 0 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 3 1673 21 Turley, "Old Vines," California 2016 80.00 242 0 Founded in 1993 by Larry Turley, brother of the well-known consulting winemaker Helen Turley. He was one of the co-founders of Frog's Leap in 1981. Turley specializes in producing high quality, single vinyard zinfandel and petite syrah. They source fruit from older vineyards, some date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Old Vines is composed of a variety of old sites from California that are either too small to be made into a vineyard designate wine or are “new” to the Turley family (and way of farming). Vines are anywhere from 41 to 129 years old, and a true representation of California old vine Zinfandel, hailing from vineyards in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Contra Costa, Amador and Paso Robles. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 10 3559 54 Arcanum, IGT Toscana 2006 120.00 310 0 Arcanum is the pinnacle of the estate’s offerings. Based on Cabernet Franc, the true signature of the estate, this remarkable wine is built to age yet is drinkable young, offering aromas of violets, roses and raspberries, with long and delicate spice notes; it is a wine that is seductive yet subtle. Arcanum is sourced primarily from the L’Apparita and Belvedere blocks of Cabernet Franc. With superb exposure and sandy clay soils, each year these blocks shine to produce the finest expression of the variety, and the leading wine of the estate. Presenting a dark ruby, opaque center, this 2006 Cabernet Franc blend boasts elegant aromas of dark plums, black cherries and hints of anise while lavender and spice add to the senses followed by a dusty mineral core. The palate of this wine reveals flavors of black fruits and fig, followed by a moderate plus acidity creating a balance that exudes a full-bodied texture. Earthy tones, and tobacco make for a lasting and complex finish to this classic Tuscan wine. 47% CABERNET FRANC, 43% MERLOT, 10% CABERNET SAUVIGNON 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 5 2971 22 Betz, "La Côte Rousse," Red Mountain 2014 120.00 475 0 Winemaker Bob Betz is the founder, patriarch and guiding light of Betz Family Winery. His pursuit of winemaking began in the early 1970's when he and his wife Cathy criss-crossed European vineyards to better understand the why and how of crafting fine wine. His philosophy is pretty simple: focus on what the vineyards have provided. Start with the highest quality fruit you can, treat it vigorously when necessary, gently most of the time, and stay out of its way but watch it closely. Allow the wines to develop slowly, and make sure they provide exceptional pleasure. Bob holds the degree of Master of Wine (MW), a designation awarded by the Institute of Masters of Wine in London. With a pass rate of about 12% it's a grueling process that's well worth the effort. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 2 3279 22 Cornas "Terres Brûlées," Jean-Luc Colombo 2014 120.00 804 0 Jean-Luc Colombo's fulfillment of a childhood dream came with the purchase of his first vineyard, a small parcel of old vines planted on a granite hillside overlooking the village of Cornas. The 1987 release of Jean-Luc’s first vintage of Cornas Les Ruchets was a great success, taking the French wine world by storm, and becoming the first in a long series of vintages of what is universally regarded as Colombo’s iconic wine. Early success fueled the swift acquisition of additional vineyards. Throughout the years following his rise, Jean-Luc has remained true to his passion for winemaking and constant to his guiding principle: Show respect for nature and the unique qualities of each and every terroir. Living in the middle of their vineyards in Cornas, Jean-Luc and Anne have always wanted to preserve their environment by acting in harmony with nature’s abundance. Thus, for many years organic methods have been used in their vineyards. These included banning the use of any pesticides, using bark mulch in the vineyards (which preserves the natural microorganisms and humidity in the soil yet retards the growth of plants which compete with the vines for water and nutrients), and encouraging the natural biodiversity of the vineyard by planting trees around each plot and allowing wildflowers to bloom. "A deep ruby-black with purple hints. Blackcurrant, dark cherries and blackberries, with spices, licorice and cocoa. A very rich mouthfeel with flavors of black fruit, jam, vanilla, spice and mineral notes." 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 2 3290 22 Côte-Rôtie, "Bassenon," Yves Cuilleron 2012 185.00 785 0 The Cuilleron family domaine, located in the hamlet of Verlieu (part of the town of Chavanay) was founded several generations ago (1920). Yves Cuilleron's grandfather was the first to bottle wine for commercial purposes in 1947. Yves assumed full ownership and direction of the domaine in 1987 and, since that time, has built an entirely new facility while at the same time acquiring additional vineyard property. The domaine is now significantly larger in scope with 52 hectares of vineyards that cover multiple appellations. Most of the vineyards are situated in and around the commune of Chavanay which is just south of the town of Condrieu; obviously, the holdings in Cote Rotie extend north into Ampuis and the holdings the furthest south are in the village of Saint Péray. To control yields, Cuilleron does extensive debudding and, when necessary, practices a “green harvest”. In the cave, the grapes (harvested manually) are fermented using indigenous yeasts. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 3 3288 22 Côte-Rôtie, "La Chavaroche," Bernard Levet 2014 160.00 951 0 Nicole Levet’s grandfather first purchased vineyards in Ampuis in 1936 and began making wine immediately thereafter. Initially, he delivered his Cote Rotie in barrels to the city of St. Etienne where he sold it to bistros and cafes for consumption by the miners of that city. In 1966, Nicole’s father, Marius Chambeyron, began to bottle a small portion of the production of the estate. It was with the formidable 1983 vintage that Bernard Levet took over the wine production as well as the management of the vineyard with his wife Nicole. This exceptional couple has now been responsible for the development of the domaine, increasing the vineyard holdings and expanding the cellar capacity so that they can now bottle their entire production. The domaine consists of 3.5 hectares of vineyards, all of which are located within the boundaries of the town of Ampuis and are entitled to the Cote Rotie appellation. The vines are dispersed among six separate parcels. The vineyards are all steeply terraced and must be worked and harvested manually. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 3 3349 22 Cote Rotie Guigal "Chateau d'Ampuis" 2004 325.00 633 0 Cote Rotie "Chateau D'Ampuis" (Guigal) 2004 In 1995 the estate acquired the famous Château d’Ampuis, an important historic and oenological monument whose long history is directly linked to the Côte-Rôtie appellation. An ancient fort built in the 12th century, it was transformed into a Renaissance château in the 16th century. The château is situated amongst the vines and bordered by the king of rivers: the Rhône. The Château d’Ampuis has become the headquarters of the Guigal Estate "Vivid ruby. Highly complex nose displays sexy, mineral-drenched red berry and kirsch qualities, along with anise, violet, vanilla and cola. The minerality continues on the palate, adding life to the pure red fruit flavors. Becomes spicier on the clean, impressively persistent finish. A superb blend of power and energy." 93 Points International Wine Cellar "A very fine effort for the vintage, with slightly mature hints of coffee and sage mingling with a core of black cherry, incense and iron. The long, fine-grained finish still has good grip, but is also plenty supple, with a lingering hint of incense. Drink now through 2022. 2,500 cases made. " 92 Points Wine Spectator 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 1 3287 22 Crozes Hermitage, "Laya," Yves Cuilleron 2016 85.00 762 0 The Cuilleron family domaine, located in the hamlet of Verlieu (part of the town of Chavanay) was founded several generations ago (1920). Yves Cuilleron's grandfather was the first to bottle wine for commercial purposes in 1947. Yves assumed full ownership and direction of the domaine in 1987 and, since that time, has built an entirely new facility while at the same time acquiring additional vineyard property. The domaine is now significantly larger in scope with 52 hectares of vineyards that cover multiple appellations. Most of the vineyards are situated in and around the commune of Chavanay which is just south of the town of Condrieu; obviously, the holdings in Cote Rotie extend north into Ampuis and the holdings the furthest south are in the village of Saint Péray. To control yields, Cuilleron does extensive debudding and, when necessary, practices a “green harvest”. In the cave, the grapes (harvested manually) are fermented using indigenous yeasts. Opaque ruby. Smoky black and blue fruit aromas are accented by vibrant mineral and peppery spice qualities. The palate offers energetic boysenberry and violet pastille flavors, plus notes of spicecake and black pepper. The floral note recurs on the incisive, persistent finish, which features silky tannins and lingering spiciness. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 1 3445 22 Crozes Hermitage, Etienne Bécheras 2016 75.00 746 0 Etienne Becheras’s domaine extends for 12 hectares principally within the confines of the village of Arras which borders and overlooks the Rhone River on the western side. The domaine farms organically. Four hectares of vineyards are planted on the limestone and gravel soils which mount in altitude and are on steep hillsides. The vineyards are placed on long terraces supported by hand-constructed stone walls. As a result, almost all work must be done by hand without the aid of mechanical implements. The four hectares of vineyards are within the appellation of Saint Joseph. Only 4/10ths of a hectare are planted to the white grapes of Marsanne and Roussanne, enough to produce about four to six barrels (1200 to 1500 bottles) per year. The remaining 3.6 hectares are planted to Syrah with the various plots situated in the neighboring villages of Arras and Vion. In addition, Bécheras exploits an additional one hectare of vines further south in the village of Mercurol. From this site, a small amount of Crozes Hermitage Rouge is produced. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 2 3289 22 Crozes Hermitage, Domaine Lombard 2013 65.00 780 0 The Domaine Lombard estate was founded in 1981 by Jean-Marie and Sylvette Lombard, who contributed to the revival of the Brezème appellation after it was decimated by the Phylloxera outbreak, falling from 250 acres to just a few acres in the 1930s. In 2012, the Lombards retired and a new dynamic team led by Emmanuelle and Julien Montagnon took over the estate. With passion, commitment, and courage they replanted part of the vineyards, secured more land and finally built a brand new winery. The estate currently comprises 5 acres of Syrah and Viognier in Vin de Pays Drôme and 18 acres of mostly Syrah, with some Roussanne and Marsanne in Brezème. The vines are between 15 and 30 years old. This Crozes Hermitage is made exclusively with grapes from the ‘Chassis’ terroir, one of the best growing areas of the appellation. Winemaking The vinification partly uses whole bunches, which gives this generous and ample wine real sapidity and great length on the palate. Fermentation by natural yeast. Matured for over 12 months in concrete vats. Filtration at bottling. Tasting notes The delicate tannic structure of this wine and its aromas of crushed strawberry make it an excellent wine for drinking right away, full of energy and flavor. With time, more powerful aromas such as leather and truffle will appear to further elevate the wine. 100% Syrah. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 2 3363 22 Hermitage "La Petite Chapelle," Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné 2010 225.00 867 0 Hermitage - Paul Jaboulet Aîné "La Petite Chapelle" 2010 The 2010 Hermitage La Petite Chapelle is a better wine than nearly every Hermitage La Chapelle made under the final years of the Jaboulet family’s ownership. Its deep purple color is followed by notes of camphor, tar, pepper, beef blood, black currant jam and hints of new saddle leather as well as earth. This supple, rich, full, authoritative beauty should drink well for 15-20 years. 92 Points from Robert Parker 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 1 3608 22 Hiyu Wine Farm - Smockshop Band, "Columbia Valley Red I" 80.00 612 0 "Smockshop Band is an exploration of the Columbia Gorge. The Gorge contains a diverse range of landscapes within a small area. It was this multitude of potential places to make wine that drew us to the Gorge. We've been working on developing relationships with growers and landowners who share our vision of farming. We now lease and farm twenty acres of land outside of Hiyu and purchase fruit from an additional few more. All of the vineyards are farmed naturally and allow us access to the full spectrum of possible flavors from high altitude, cool climate sites on the western end of the Gorge to the more Mediterranean, dessert influenced sites to the east. This 10 acre vineyard is located on the banks of the Columbia River where the Gorge transitions to desert. A Basalt cliff rises from the river, there are dunes on the other side of the cliff and the vineyard is planted in black sand and basalt cobbles beyond the dunes. The site is complex and influenced by torrid heat from the desert, unimpeded flow of alpine air from the slopes of Mt. Adams and powerful, ocean inflected winds that are accelerated by the steep walls of the Gorge. The change in vegetation is also dramatic and the wild desert plants that grow under the canopy lend the wines compelling botanical perfumes. This is the first bottling from a multi-vintage blend of varietals with origins in Bordeaux and the Southern Rhone." 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 3 3343 22 L'Aventure "Optimus," Paso Robles - Willow Creek District 2015 140.00 464 0 Stephan Asseo, owner and winemaker at L'Aventure Winery, began making wine in 1982, following his education at L'Ecole Oenologique de Macon, Burgundy, France. In that same year, Stephan established Domaine de Courteillac in Bordeaux. He and his family later purchased Chateau Fleur Cardinal and Chateau Robin in the Cotes de Castillion, Bordeaux. Over the next 15 years, Stephan developed into an artisan winemaker of fastidious craftsmanship and gained a reputation as a maverick vigneron. However, his true desire was to be more innovative than AOC law would allow. In 1996, this led him on a quest for a great terroir, where he could pursue his ideal as a winemaker. After searching for over a year among the world's great wine fields, ranging from South Africa to Lebanon, Argentina to Napa, Stephan found Paso Robles. Stephan immediately "fell in love" with the unique terroir of west side Paso Robles. The rolling topography of the Santa Lucia Mountain Range, the deep calcareous soils, and the maritime influences of the renowned Templeton Gap all combine to produce a world class wine country, with the potential to craft some of the world's greatest blends. It is here, in Paso Robles, that Stephan began his adventure, "L'Aventure". The spirit of L'Aventure is most evident in Stephan's "Paso Blends", such as Optimus and Estate Cuvée. Both wines are Syrah/ Cabernet Sauvignon/ Petit Verdot blends. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 2 3329 22 Mas de Can Blau, Montsant 2011 90.00 915 0 Cellers Can Blau, founded in 2003, is one of the oldest projects of the Gil Family in Jumilla. Placed in El Molar, in the D.O. Montsant, this winery is the most diverse project regarding the grape varieties and the type of soils. After a very careful selection of grapes of Garnacha planted on soils of slate –llicorella-, Cariñena vineyards grow on clay soils and Syrah vineyards located on limestone soils, a very limited production of this exclusive wine is obtained after 18 months of maturing in French oak barrels. 35% Cariñena, 35% Syrah and 30% Garnacha 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 1 2785 22 Penner Ash, Oregon 2014 99.00 288 0 Lynn Penner Ash’s interest in winemaking grew out of an early passion for the sciences. After a summer working for the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C., she studied Botany at the University of California, Davis, the birthplace of the American wine industry. In her junior year she changed her major to Viticulture. Then, after working the graveyard shift during crush at Domaine Chandon, she changed her degree again, from Viticulture to Enology. After graduation, Lynn worked as the enologist at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars for four years. She joined the Oregon wine industry in 1988 as winemaker for Rex Hill Winery. Consistently producing award-winning wines, she became Rex Hill’s President and Chief Operating Officer in 1993 and continued on with Rex Hill until March of 2002. This wine has a sweet entry full of fresh, red fruit that leads to a mid-palate weight with a lengthy and structured finish. Driven by notes of dark fruits such as red cherry, plum and boysenberry accompanied by hints of vanilla with spicy wood undertones. Fine grain tannins allow for the ability to age well. 100% Syrah. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 3 3495 22 Qupe, Central Coast 2015 30.00 649 0 Qupe specializes in Rhône-style wines from the Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria, that is farmed sustainable, the Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard in the Edna Valley, farmed biodynamically, and the Ibarra-Young Vineyard in Los Olivos, farmed organically. Bob Lindquist's exacting standards and never-resting-on-laurels attitude, allows Qupé to continually be cutting edge and a benchmark other wineries aspire to be. This is a classic Central Coast syrah, combining the spice and acidity of the cool climate grapes with the forward fruit of the warm climate grapes. 375 0 0 1 30 2 2 375 ml 3215 22 Refugio Ranch, "Barbareño," Santa Ynez Valley 2012 90.00 394 0 The story of Refugio Ranch is the story of California. One among many, but quintessential in its nature. For thousands of years this land was the domain of the Chumash. The first Spaniards arrived in the area in 1769, led by Don Gaspar de Portolá. Among Portolá’s men was a Sergeant named José Francisco de Ortega. When Ortega retired several years later, he petitioned the King of Spain for a land grant of a particularly stunning stretch of coastline west of Santa Barbara. He named this swath of land “Rancho Nuestra Señora del Refugio” or the “Ranch of Our Lady of Refuge.” The original Refugio Ranch. Deep garnet and ruby hues, beautifully delineated with wonderfully lifted aromatics of sweet spice, sassafras, cassis and anise complemented by dark cherry, black fruit, and plum skin. The savory elements of Syrah (79%) with peppercorn, seared meat, and chalky tannin are met by the dense blue fruit and brooding structure of Petite Sirah (21%). The palate offers wonderful concentration, depth and structure, accentuated with vibrancy and freshness attributed to the unique clay soils of Refugio Ranch. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 1 2822 22 Shafer, "Relentless," Napa Valley 2015 225.00 379 0 Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet grapes in 1978 and began construction on their winery a year later. This wine honors long-time Shafer Winemaker Elias Fernandez and his relentless pursuit of quality. 750 0 0 1 28 2 1 3420 22 St. Joseph, "Offerus," J.L. Chave 2017 75.00 798 1 The Chave family is based in a small village on the northern right bank of the Rhone. There have been Chaves growing vines on the famous Hermitage hill since 1481. Gerard Chave took over from his father in 1970 and rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines and has since passed on the winemaking responsibilities to his son Jean-Louis. The Chave’s methods for all their winemaking are traditional farming, super low yields, full ripeness, and minimal manipulation. Their unmatched meticulousness continues through five centuries to render venerable expressions of the purest of Rhône terroir. The vineyards used for Offerus are located in two distinct St. Joseph areas. The communities of Mauves, Tournon, and St. Jean de Muzols yield over 80% of the blend and are owned by Jean-Louis. These southern vineyard sites express tightly wound tannins, spice, and power. They add structure and depth to complete the harmony of Offerus. The remaining vineyards are located in more northerly communities around Serrières, and even these are farmed mainly by Jean-Louis, though he doesn’t own the vineyards. This soil produces wines which are more elegant with incredible purity, definition, and focus. 750 0 0 5 6 2 jpg 6 3382 22 Terre Rouge "Tête-à-Tête," Sierra Foothills 2012 50.00 442 0 Terre Rouge and Easton Wines is located in California on the West Slope of the Sierra Nevada in Amador County's Shenandoah Valley. An artisan winery established in 1986 by winemaker Bill Easton and Jane O’Riordan, they make 30 different wines, most of them very small lots of 100-400 cases.

 Terre Rouge means "Red Earth". This vermillion-colored soil is one of the hallmarks of this region. The vineyards are in soils that are largely granite and volcanic-based. The Terre Rouge portfolio is composed of wines made from Rhône varietals grown in the rugged and varying terroirs of this region: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne. High elevation sites up to 3200’ contribute to the complexity of the wines. 44% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 27% Mourvèdre 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 2 3001 22 Torbreck, "Cuvee Juveniles," Barossa Valley 2017 55.00 511 0 Juveniles is a 'cult' Parisian wine bar run by eningmatic ex-pat Englishman, Tim Johnston. He's been in Paris more than twenty years and is a passionate promoter of the Rhone Valley and it's wines, particularly individualist, quality minded producers. Torbreck founder David Powell hit it off with Tim over the years, eventually making a wine for his wine bar in 1999. In keeping with Tim and David's love of Rhone Valley varietals and the fact that they are equally at home in the Barossa, the blend constitutes old-vine Grenache, Mataro (Mourvedre) and Shiraz and was elevaged entirely in stainless steel. 750 0 0 14 40 2 jpg 3 424 23 Stags' Leap, Napa 2016 75.00 392 0 This winery was founded in 1893 by Horace and Minnie Chase. The name of the winery (and the AVA in which it is located) comes from an Native American legend that tells of a stag leaping from peak to peak to escape hunters in the mountains that surround Napa Valley. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 14 3078 24 Allegrini, "La Grola," Veronese 2012 75.00 865 0 The Allegrini company may be considered the result of the intelligence and hard work of Giovanni Allegrini, who was a straight forward, instinctive man who built an agricultural concern that was solid, efficient and innovative. He started working at a very young age and perfected the art of wine-making with great skill and an all-encompassing passion. Love for the land has been the driving force behind the Allegrini family's commitment to enhancing the potential of Valpolicella and its viticultural traditions. The far-sighted choices made by the company have made it one of the leading wine companies in Italy, and thus the new generation of wine-makers in Valpolicella look to Allegrini wines as an indisputable benchmark. The La Grola vineyard represents, in conjunction with an ancient legend that traces birth of the Corvina varietal precisely to this magnificent hill, the ideal location for 'wine-making', and has always stood as a symbol of the Valpolicella Classico zone. A full-bodied, intense and elegant wine. Deep ruby red in colour, it has a wide and embracing bouquet with scents of wild berries and juniper, tobacco and coffee essence. Made from Corvina Veronese, Oseleta and Syrah grapes grown in La Grola, one of the most prestigious vineyards in the Valpolicella Classico area in terms both of history and position. 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 3 3077 24 Amarone, Allegrini 2013 185.00 815 0 The Allegrini company may be considered the result of the intelligence and hard work of Giovanni Allegrini, who was a straight forward, instinctive man who built an agricultural concern that was solid, efficient and innovative. He started working at a very young age and perfected the art of wine-making with great skill and an all-encompassing passion. Love for the land has been the driving force behind the Allegrini family's commitment to enhancing the potential of Valpolicella and its viticultural traditions. The far-sighted choices made by the company have made it one of the leading wine companies in Italy, and thus the new generation of wine-makers in Valpolicella look to Allegrini wines as an indisputable benchmark. 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 3 2825 24 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, Bussola 2013 160.00 872 0 When Veneto legend Giuseppe Quintarelli was asked years ago to name the region’s next superstar, he didn’t hesitate: Tommaso Bussola. Quintarelli’s prediction began to be realized in 1999, when Tommaso’s 1995’s were released. Among the countless accolades he received, Gambero Rosso gave him the first of many Tre Bicchieris for his majestic Recioto TB. Originally trained as a stone mason, Tommaso took over over his uncle’s Valpolicella estate—with its prized old vineyards in the heart of the Classico zone—in the mid-1980’s. While vineyard work came naturally to him, he experimented relentlessly, and absorbed information and ideas from every source available. With each passing vintage, his wines came to show more polish, finesse, intensity, and personality. 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 3 3370 24 Amarone della Valpolicella, Corte Volponi 2013 140.00 766 0 Valpolicella is not only a Territory, it’s the real expression of an area of high quality viticulture, based on specific types of soil, unique climate and their interaction with the vines. The complexity of the Valpolicella terroir is confirmed by the production of elegant wines. The area is full of history in production of indigenous varietals with a unique vinification leading to four distinctly different wine: Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone and Recioto. A wide range of wines, from young and fruity style, to those with great structure and long aging potentials. Fabio and Paolo Zenato found inspiration in the rich history of the land to take on the ambitious project of producing wines in the Valpolicella with the highest standard of quality in viticulture and winemaking. Together with the experience of wine-growers in the heart of Valpolicella territory, they created the ideal synergies for two wines under the brand: Corte Volponi, Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso and Amarone Classico DOCG. Winemaking has been a part of a three-generation history in the Zenato family, combining tradition with the use of modern technology, producing wines of character and with the personality of the grapes from which they were obtained. Vinification: Natural drying of the grapes for 100-120 days. Grapes are destemmed and gently pressed. Fermentation on the skins for 8-10 days. Ageing 50% of the wine in new French oak barrels and 50% in big oak barrels for two years. Aromas & Flavors: Full-bodied, voluptuous and seductive wine has plenty of elegance with fine spices. Its sumptuous spicy bouquet with scents of red berries and dried fruit, while its enticing silky texture and lush, lingering finish solidify it as an unquestionably sexy wine. 40% Corvinone, 35% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 5% Oseleta 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 4 3503 24 Amarone della Valpolicella, Giuliano Rosati 2013 90.00 730 0 The Giuliano Rosati wines are a collaboration between Regal’s owners, Dan Bada & Charlie Trivinia, and esteemed winemakers throughout Italy. Giuliano Rosati is in remembrance of Charlie and Dan’s Italian heritage; both of their families originally hail from the Marche region. When Charlie’s father, Giuliano, made the voyage to Ellis Island he was given the name ‘Charlie’ upon his arrival and thus ‘Guiliano’ was quickly forgotten. Rosati is the maiden name of Charlie’s grandmother. Naming this family of wines ‘Giuliano Rosati’ signifies the importance of their core values to always respect the roots of their heritage and history, while remaining humble at the same time. Dark, garnet-edged ruby; scents of wild cherry, dried rose petals, and cocoa powder; well balanced, with supple tannins. Two years of aging in French barrique have helped to craft a layered, complex Amarone with syrupy richness in the mouth, sweet smoke overtones and aromas of bacon, cola, leather and dried fruit. 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 9 3371 24 Amarone della Valpolicella, Remo Farina 2016 99.00 786 0 The Farina family has roots in agriculture and winemaking tracing back to the beginning of the 16th century. Remo Farina was able to combine the most modern concepts in winemaking technology with ancient, time-tested methods to produce rich, elegant wines. Today the winery, which has opened its doors to the new generation, continues to produce lovely fresh white wines and exquisite red wines that have great body and balance with a wonderful combination of sweet fruit and traditional dried fruit blended with earthy undertones and a dry complex pleasant finish. These Valpolicella and Amarone wines from Farina are among the best priced quality wines from this region. Ruby red colour with garnet tinges. Ethereal, spicy, with cherry hints, sour cherry, raspberry, currant in alcohol, cocoa and balsamic notes. In the mouth is warm, full, of great structure, fine and balanced. 50% Corvina, 20% Corvinone, 20% Rondinella, 10% Molinara, Oseleta and Turchetta 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 4 3066 24 Amarone della Valpolicella, Zenato 2015 160.00 800 0 The Zenato winery possesses a strong link to the richness of its local history and culture, and continues to develop this connection today. The estate is based in a territory that surrounds Lake Garda, with an extraordinary microclimate that allows for an optimal growing season. Cherishing a ‘frank and simple’ approach to life, Zenato is committed to producing affordable wine of exceptional quality. Zenato Amarone is a blend of the more traditionally used grapes, Corvina and Rondinella, with a touch of both Croatina and Oseleta, two ancient grapes being revived in the region. Corvina is prized not only for its intense marasca cherry flavor, but its ability to stand up under the drying process. Used in small quantities Rondinella also fares well in drying, and contributes dark color and an alluring floral note. Oseleta provides tannic structure and minerality while Croatina is introduced to add a certain youthful fruitiness. All this attention to detail pays off in a wine that is immediately approachable yet unmistakably ageworthy. 750 0 0 8 8 2 jpg 2 3555 24 Bandol, Chateau Pradeaux 2014 110.00 438 0 There is the appellation of Bandol with its plethora of producers, some good, some mediocre; and then there is Château Pradeaux, the unique, inimitable, standard-bearer for this ancient wine-growing district. The Château Pradeaux is situated on the outskirts of the town of Saint Cyr-sur-Mer that lies directly on the Mediterranean Ocean between Toulon and Marseilles. The estate has been in the hands of the Portalis family since before the French Revolution. The domaine is currently under the direction of Cyrille Portalis, the sole direct descendant of Suzanne and Arlette. He continues to maintain the great traditions of this estate and is assisted by his wife, Magali, and now his two sons, Etienne and Edouard. The vineyards are cultivated in as natural a manner as possible with reliance on organic methods. In fact, for many years during the spring months sheep grazed in the vineyards thereby eliminating any need to use herbicides and at the same time providing a natural compost. The wines are not destemmed; élevage in large oak foudres can last as long as four years; vines of less than 25 years of age are not used for the reds. Château Pradeaux Bandol is composed of no less than 95% Mourvèdre (old vines). The nose is a mix of honey and white flowers with a hint of animal fur; the color is ruby red; the fruit stains the palate and is lengthened by a near-perfect sense of roundness; the final attack is of ripe tannins that are dusty and sweet. Château Pradeaux “Cuvée Longue Garde” is born exclusively of the oldest Mourvèdre vines on the estate (average age 45 years). Extraordinarily dense, with black notes to the color, the “Longue Garde” is marked by a strong scent of Provençal herbs combined with smoked red meat. This is a complete wine with incredible length; the flavors remind one of macerated plums and black currants. The super-ripe tannins are powerful and in perfect balance with the high fruit extract. 750 0 0 5 35 2 jpg 4 2544 24 Casa Lapostolle, "Clos Apalta," Colchagua Valley 2007 140.00 670 0 Casa Lapostolle was founded by the Marnier Lapostolle family from France and the Rabat family from Chile in 1994. Since its launch in 1997, Casa Lapostolle’s Clos Apalta has been a success. Produced in limited quantities from fruit grown in the Apalta vineyard, a region increasingly dubbed the ‘Pomerol’ of Chile, this premium cuvée, a blend of Merlot, Carmènere, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, has won a number of international awards and recognitions. Wine Spectator - 93. 750 0 0 2 jpg 2 3504 24 Division, Gamay "Renardière," Redford Wetle Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 99.00 333 0 Myron Redford is as great a legend in Oregon’s wine industry as they come. He founded Amity Vineyards back in mid-1970s as a part of a group of pioneering young wine entrepreneurs that were building the start of the Oregon wine in-dustry, including the likes of David & Diana Lett, the Casteel & Dudley families, Pat & Joe Campbell and David Adelsheim. Myron and his partner Vikki Wetle planted a small 7.5 acre certified organic vineyard on Jory, Yamhill & Woodburn soils at their home property in the Eola-Amity Hills in 2006, which includes the Gamay Noirthat was sourced for the second year of the “Renardière” cuvee. The name means “foxhole” in French, and was a term Myron liked to use when describing the difficulties of being an early Oregonian grape pioneer, consistently having to battle for a little attention and always two steps forward and a step back. The 2016 Division Gamay Noir “Renardière” debuts with a complex harmony of holiday spices and ripe strawberries layered over a wet rock like minerality. The wine has perfect Gamay weight that focuses mineral and texture over power and concentration. The palate is medium weight with an almost savory strawberry like core that focuses on herbs and spices over a silky texture that lingers well after the sip. 750 0 0 1 32 2 jpg 4 3539 24 Jumilla, Luzón Portu 2013 80.00 436 0 Portu is the fruit of the perfect harmony and balance Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon grape. The selected wines are located over 600 meters above sea level, and are of low yield. A selected harvest and controlled coupage make this the definition of elegance and tradition. Dark cherry opaque color with a garnet rim. Fruity on the nose outstanding ripe red berries aromas, spicy, fine cocoa and toasted oak notes. Great structure on the palate, rich, tasty with ripe sweet tannins. Long, friendly, very pleasant and elegant wine with a long finish. 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 2 3344 24 Minervois, "Le Vin de Plume," Domaine du Somail 2015 44.00 459 0 Located in the Eastern part of the Minervois appellation, where vines have been cultivated since the Romain period, Domaine du Somail epitomizes the search for authenticity, elegance and finesse. The viticulture is biodynamic and respects the soil to reveal the full potential of the vines. The grapes are hand harvested, and once fermented, are aged in french barrels or tanks for up to 24 months. They are naturally clarified and bottled at the estate, with a minimum dose of sulfite. The wine will be officially awarded the labels « Demeter » and « Agriculture Biologique » from the 2016 vintage. The soils of the region, dating from the Eocene era, cover the stony, essentially limestone slopes of the « Montagne Noire », the black mountain. Winemaking Manual harvest, fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks using selected yeasts. Tasting notes Deep ruby. Complex nose with generous aromas of ripe strawberries and red cherries, floral notes of iris and a hint of bay leaf. In the mouth, the tannins are soft and elegant, the body is supple and structured. Long finish. 80% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah 750 0 0 0.00 5 7 2 jpg 1 3588 24 Moulin-à-Vent "Vignes du Tremblay," Paul Janin et Fils 2017 70.00 418 0 The Cru Beaujolais of Moulin-à-Vent inherited its name from the stoic windmill that has overlooked these vineyards since the 15th century. In the same silent, consistent manner, Paul Janin and his family have tended their Gamay vines for generations. Paul’s son, Eric, is very much a product of this place; he is a fourth-generation grower, overseeing the fruit from its inception in the vineyard to its final resting place in the bottle. The grapes are farmed using lutte raisonnée methods, and the flaky, pink granite soil produces structured, powerful wines that gain even more character as they age. Bright, firm and earthy, they are reminiscent of the great terroirs of the Côte de Nuit. 750 0 0 5 1 2 jpg 3 3064 24 Portal 10 Year Tawny 96.00 957 0 Quinta do Portal is a unique, family, fine winemaking company based in the Douro valley of Northern Portugal, the first wine region to be demarcated in 1756. It’s a boutique winery devoted to theproduction of the best wines this wonderful region can offer. 750 0 0 8.00 9 42 6 jpg 2 3063 24 Portal "29 Grapes Reserve" 62.00 967 0 Quinta do Portal is a unique, family, fine winemaking company based in the Douro valley of Northern Portugal, the first wine region to be demarcated in 1756. It’s a boutique winery devoted to theproduction of the best wines this wonderful region can offer. This wine is a field blend from the classic Douro grape varieties planted in traditional vineyards. The best lots of selected ruby ports are blended each year to make this Ruby Reserve. It is a very smooth, polished and elegant after dinner Port. It has wonderful depth of colour, a great red fruit fragrance, very smooth on the palate with a fantastic character. 750 0 0 9 42 6 jpg 3 3553 24 Orion Primitivo, Salento IGT 2017 40.00 455 0 The name Orion comes from the Greek and refers to the fortified road nearby the vineyards of Masseria Li Veli (called Limite dei Greci) which in past times used to be considered the border between the Longobards domains to the North and the Byzantium reign to the South-East. Orion is a Primitivo in purezza, fresh, pleasant, full and soft with a remarkable persistence. Dense ruby red with a purplish rim, it is immediately intense on the nose with marked aromas of ripe and fleshy red fruits, notably cherries followed by spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg; in the mouth it is full, powerful, smooth and very long, with a well defined acid streak which makes it fresh and pleasing. 750 0 0 8 34 2 jpg 4 3451 24 Carignane, Princess and Peasant, "Poor Ranch," Mendocino 2016 95.00 380 0 Sourced from 74 year old vines, the Princess and the Peasant Poor Ranch Carignan is unique expression of a variety perfectly adapted to its terroir. Juicy, bright, and vibrant; with blackberry and pomegranate fruit and lively, polished tannins. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 1 3014 24 Recioto della Valpolicella, Corte Rugolin 2011 75.00 764 0 The great-great-grandfather, Giuseppe, started off the business, mainly working in the vineyards. Great grandfather, Fortunato, was the first to make small quantities of Recioto and Amarone. Grandfather Giuseppe and his son Bruno carried on the family business until 1998 when Bruno’s daughter Elena and son Federico founded Corte Rugolin. They introduced important innovations and know-how with the aim of obtaining an excellent product and offering it on the international market. The company took its name from the antique rural courtyard, which is also its seat, that dates back to the end of the 16th century. It is set in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica area, with its ideal microclimate for the cultivation of vines, between Monti Lessini, the plains and Lake Garda. Originally this wine was obtained from the “recie” that is from the small bunches of grapes from which it takes its name, that are left to dry for a few months. Its intense but delicate bouquet is like an iris, a violet, wild roses, cherries and wild cherries put together. 375 0 0 8 8 4 jpg 1 375 ml 3381 24 Robert Foley, "The Griffin," California 2016 120.00 292 0 The Griffin – on the Foley family crest in Irish heraldry combines the strengths of the lion, king of beasts, with the eagle, king of the skies. A winemaker’s dream is to be artistically free to combine characters into wine that is purely hedonic and non-compliant with varietal regulations, so The Griffin’s blend changes with every vintage. Bottled in Spring of 2017, this vibrantly youthful red blend is an inky dark red leggy wine! Red berry fruit aromas and flavors evenly coat the palate and linger long in the finish. Gently gripping tannins carry a hint of espresso character. A delicious blend of bright fruit flavors. More than half of this blend are classic claret varieties (Cabernet, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot), which marry with Rhone-rooted varieties (Syrah, Petite Sirah, Charbono). Delicious in its youth, this red blend will age elegantly for many years. This year’s blend is 28% Merlot, 19% Petite Sirah, 14% Charbono, 12% Malbec, 11% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 3 2880 24 "Ghiaia Nera," Tascante, Sicilia I.G.T. 2014 45.00 846 0 Mount Etna works its magic on anyone who knows it. The fascinating lie of the land, the abundance, the effects of successive lava streams and the age-old experience of the people who work this territory make it irresistible. Before establishing a foothold here, the whole DOC zone in all its many aspects was studied for more than a decade, experimenting with making wines from grapes sourced from all over. But it was the Nerello Mascalese variety which was most impressive. Grown on lava soil on the slopes of the volcano, Nerello has tannins and low anthocyanins reminiscent of Nebbiolo from the Langhe or Pinot Noir from Burgundy, and it shares their rich perfumes. The estate farms 12 hectares of vines at an altitude of 750 meters above sea level. Drawn by a combination of unique climate and volcanic soil, with true biodiversity acting as a backdrop to the vineyards, the "Tascante Estate" project, now in its third grape harvest, has added a second wine: "Ghiaia Nera" (Black Gravel), their interpretation of Nerello Mascalese. 750 0 0 8 34 2 jpg 1 758 24 Taylor-Fladgate, 20 Year Tawny Port 115.00 916 0 Taylor's is now over 300 years old. It remains a family firm, completely independent, owned still by relations of the original partners. The finest Port is produced from grapes grown on the steep and rocky slopes of the Upper Douro and its tributaries. Vines have been grown on these remote hillsides since pre-Roman times. 750 0 0 9 42 6 jpg 5 3584 24 Taurasi Riserva Rajamagra DOCG, Vinosia 2011 110.00 539 0 Vinosia by Luciano Ercolino tells the family history that goes back over a hundred years ago in an ancient land: the Irpinia within the heart of Campania. Here since 1887, a simple farming family has pursued its utopia: a winery that produces unsurpassed traditional wines from the region with minimal impact on the environment. While using the latest technologies and advances to create consistently beautiful wines, Vinosia still looks to the history of the region to maintain the integrity of the region and the wines that come from it. The winery consists of over 300 acres under cultivation, of which 1/3 are directly owned and the rest are under direct management with long-term contracts. There are 7 separate vineyard locations, each specifically selected for the wine being produced. Dark and impenetrable, intense and complex with hints of blackberries, sour cherries, vanilla, and saddle leather; harmonious with power structure, velvety tannins and well balanced but obvious acidity finishing with notes of cocoa and toasted spices. Best served with roast meats, game, and fowl. 100% Aglianico 750 0 0 8 34 2 jpg 6 3079 25 Poggio al Tesoro (Allegrini), "Sondraia," Bolgheri 2014 160.00 832 0 The Allegrini company may be considered the result of the intelligence and hard work of Giovanni Allegrini, who was a straight forward, instinctive man who built an agricultural concern that was solid, efficient and innovative. He started working at a very young age and perfected the art of wine-making with great skill and an all-encompassing passion. Love for the land has been the driving force behind the Allegrini family's commitment to enhancing the potential of Valpolicella and its viticultural traditions. The far-sighted choices made by the company have made it one of the leading wine companies in Italy, and thus the new generation of wine-makers in Valpolicella look to Allegrini wines as an indisputable benchmark. After just a few vintages Sondraia has become a classic in the Bolgheri area, thanks to a style that seeks a powerful profile but with harmony and finesse. Perfectly ripe grapes and painstaking work in the cellar yeald a wine with intense notes of fresh fruit and herbs which follow through on the palate, where the wine opens up with great class and silky smoothness. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 2 2707 25 Altamura, Napa Valley 2015 250.00 448 0 Frank Altamura’s passion for detail is clearly defined by his richly textured, highly collectable wine. Founded in 1985 by Napa Valley natives Frank and Karen Altamura, Altamura Vineyards and Winery is located on a sprawling natural ranch on Wooden Valley Road in Napa Valley where estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese are meticulously produced. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 3230 25 Andrew Will, Columbia Valley 2016 90.00 547 0 After operating from a 10' by 60' space for several years, Andrew Will Winery relocated to their current facilities in Vashon in 1994. They source from Ciel du Cheval, Champoux, May’s Discovery, and Two Blondes Vineyards for their wines. Their single vineyard wines have come to be considered as among the most superb wines currently made in the USA. The fruit comes from the Champoux Vineyard which has been acclaimed as the best site for Cabernet Sauvignon in Washington. Notes of violets and licorice with a depth of flavors on the palate while fresh and lively. Finishes with silky tannins and length. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 1 2371 25 Antica, Napa 2016 140.00 456 0 The name Antica is a combination of "Antinori" and "California," and in Italian it means ancient. This Antinori family has been making wine for 26 generations. Giovanni di Piero Antinori joined the Florentine Guild of Vintners in 1385. The vines are planted on hillsides, at elevations of between 1,500 and 1,800 feet, in rocky volcanic soils. Wine Spectator - 88. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3129 25 Arietta, "Quartet," Napa Valley 2015 175.00 409 0 Arietta, an ultra-premium Napa winery specializing in limited production Bordeaux-style blends, is owned by wine specialist and auctioneer Fritz Hatton and his wife Caren. One of America’s most celebrated winemakers, Andy Erickson, crafts the Arietta wines from carefully chosen blocks in the cooler climates of Napa Valley. Visually, the 2013 Arietta Quartet displays an intense garnet color, fading into soft plum terra cotta. The nose offers aromas of ripe strawberries and raspberries freshly picked in the heat of afternoon sun, with nuances of flint and cherry cola. On the palate, the Arietta Quartet suggests red plum, blackberry cordial, cocoa, black licorice, supported by persistent, silky tannins from the already well integrated French oak. The Cabernet Franc in the blend arrives at the finish to provide hints of Provencal herbs. Blend: 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petite Verdot 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3443 25 Arkenstone, "NVD," Napa Valley 2016 175.00 596 0 Overlooking St. Helena, high upon the western ridge of Howell Mountain, the Arkenstone Estate rises from 1400 ft. to over 1650 ft. of elevation. With amazing, sweeping views looking down over the Napa Valley to the South, Spring Mountain to the West, the wild, forested Bell Canyon to the North, and Mount St. Helena beyond, Arkenstone is a panoramic perch. This is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon with some Mountain Sass. The balance of tannins, minerality, acidity and intense fruit concentration hit all of the notes on the palate and leave you with a satisfyingly long finish.100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from vineyards at around 1600 feet of elevation in the Eastern Napa Mountains. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 3548 25 Bella Union (Far Niente), Napa Valley 2017 125.00 700 1 Bella Union was founded by the partners of Far Niente to specialize in the art of blending Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The cornerstone of the blend is our 25-acre vineyard in Rutherford, along Bella Oaks Lane, a country road that was historically called Bella Union. The vineyard is planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon in well-drained loam, and the vines range from 20 – 30 years of age. Classic varietals of Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot sourced from select Napa Valley vineyards complete the blend. Bella Union is filled with luscious aromas of cherry cola, anise, and baking spices. Tension is exhibited on the palate as this wine is both fruit forward and restrained. Black cherry, blueberry and other briary fruit flavors guide the wine’s bright midpalate, finishing with hints of cocoa and resolved tannins. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 12 3436 25 Beringer, "Private Reserve," Napa Valley 2014 250.00 586 0 With each vintage of the acclaimed Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, the Beringer winemaker chooses the best lots from our reserve vineyards in the Napa Valley, each of which demonstrates remarkable expression of terroir. Beringer’s extraordinary collection of vineyards is the result of a significant and decades-long relationship between viticulture and winemaking. “The flagship Private Reserve sports an inky, opaque color to go with killer notes of blackcurrants, scorched earth, hints of oak, graphite and minerality. Rich, full-bodied and beautifully concentrated, it's tight and backward, and is more reminiscent of a 2013 than a 2014. It has the purity to drink nicely today, yet needs 4-5 years of cellaring to show its potential.” - Jeb Dunnuck 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3439 25 Bolgheri Rosso, "Adéo," Campo alla Sughera 2015 80.00 666 0 A light and refreshing wine with fruity notes for relaxed enjoyment. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) and Merlot (40%), harvested by hand and vinified with the greatest care. At least 12 months separate aging for each variety in barriques followed by 12 months in the bottle. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 3 3505 25 Bond "Melbury," Napa Valley Red Wine 2013 1099.00 754 0 Melbury originates from a spectacular property on the slopes north of Lake Hennessey, in the hills east of Rutherford. The name Melbury is in homage to an historic area in London, where the estate owners reside much of the year. Since its debut with the 1999 vintage, the consistent hallmarks of Melbury have been plush red fruits (currants, bing cherries), redolent with spice and the scent of violets. Elegance and a supple texture define the structure of this wine. The particular exposition of this rocky 7-acre hillside vineyard is southerly overlooking Lake Hennessey, allowing the vines to capture the morning sun yet moderating afternoon temperatures. The 2013 Melbury displays bluer fruits than the 2012, more charcoal, violets, possibly slightly higher acid and more tannin, but also even more extract and richness (which is not easy). It is a very structured, backward, primordial wine with enormous upside potential, but patience will be required. This wine will need 5-10 years of bottle age and will drink well for 40-50 years. (96-98) Points Robert M. Parker Jr.'s The Wine Advocate (October 2015) 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3506 25 Bond "Vecina," Napa Valley Red Wine 2013 1099.00 726 0 Vecino is coined from the Spanish word for neighbor. This is our endeavor with the property situated directly southeast of the BOND winery.The beautifully terraced volcanic soil slopes of this property reside in Oakville's western foothills. The 11-acre site faces due east and is the recipient of cool morning sun. Vecina, which appeared with the 1999 vintage in the inaugural BOND release, is always powerful, intense and savory. Vecina's other hallmarks are blackberry fruit, with wild forest floor and mineral associated overtones. "Another blockbuster, massive, tannic, earthy, almost Graves-like style of wine is the full-bodied, muscular and dense 2013 Vecina Proprietary Red Wine. This wine has an opaque purple color and notes of pen ink, charcoal, creosote, truffle, scorched earth, and lots of black and blue fruits. It is a magnificent wine, but one that will test owners’ patience for the next 5-7 years. It is a 50-year wine, for sure." (98-100) Points Robert M. Parker Jr.'s The Wine Advocate (October 2015) 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 3481 25 Cade Estate, Howell Mountain 2012 90.00 397 0 With a shared vision, Gavin Newsom, Gordon Getty and John Conover imagined the addition of a complementary estate vineyard to the valley floor terroir of their Oakville estate at PlumpJack Estate Winery. In 2005, that dream came to fruition in the form of a 54-acre estate, elevated high above the fog line, on the dramatic slopes of Howell Mountain – it would become Cade Estate Winery. Given the opportunity to build the winery from the ground up, Newsom, Getty and Conover were committed to constructing a state-of-the-art winery that would pay tribute to the land, both aesthetically and ecologically. This commitment would go above and beyond the standard benchmark of environmental responsibility, especially in the world of wine. The end goal, to construct the first CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) organically farmed, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certified Estate Winery in the Napa Valley. 375 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 8 375 ml 1504 25 Cakebread, Napa 2016 175.00 504 0 A family run winery, Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973. While in Napa Valley taking photographs for a book, Jack Cakebread casaully mentioned to a family friend that he might like to own a vineyard one day. Later that day, that friend called, offering to sell him his Rutherford ranch. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3545 25 Canard, Napa Valley 2015 140.00 787 0 Canard Vineyard has been producing wine commercially in the Napa Valley since 1984. Today 22 acres of vines are planted on the property – its a very historic site. Rich and Carolyn Czapleski are only the properties’ 4th owners since the original owner acquired the land from a General Vallejo land grant. The Czapleskis purchased this north valley location in 1983 after looking for property close to the Bay Area where they could ‘get away’ and be in a rural location. Besides using some of the fruit for their own wines, they continue to sell some of their grapes. Old Vine Zinfandel was the only wine they made for a number of years until more recently branching out into several blends, Cabernet Sauvignon and small productions of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3393 25 Captûre "Innovant," Sonoma County 2013 99.00 440 0 Established in 2008, Captûre is inspired by California’s frontier spirit while staying true to time-honored French winemaking traditions. Their origins are rooted in the far reaches of the Mayacamas Mountains, seeking out remote high-elevation vineyards in Sonoma, Napa, and Lake Counties, always pushing toward the next peak. A Bordeaux-style blend, Innovant captures the elegance and distinct character of Sonoma County terroir. Carefully selected lots of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from Alexander Valley vineyards offer aromas of bright red fruits and spice. Flavors of blueberry and peppercorn combined with silky, elegant tannins give this wine a structured, long finish. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 1 3509 25 Cardinale Estate Red, Napa Valley 2015 550.00 681 0 Cardinale was born in 1982, with a mission to produce a singular Cabernet Sauvignon from the highest-quality vineyards in Napa Valley. All sub-appellations of the region were to be considered, and grape sources could change from year to year, to create the most distinctive wine from each vintage. Mountain-grown grapes have increasingly emerged as the foundation for the Cardinale blend – particularly those from Mount Veeder and Howell Mountain – yet benchland grapes and a small amount of Merlot add layers of complexity in every vintage. "Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cardinale Cabernet Sauvignon (containing 10% Merlot) gives beautiful red, black and blue fruit notes with touches of dried herbs, spice cake and unsmoked cigars, plus a waft of cedar. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm structure with plenty of gregarious mid-palate fruit, finishing with a lingering herbal lift. This seductive blockbuster is temptingly drinkable now and it should age gracefully over 15-20 years.” 96+ Points - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker Wine Advocate, December 2017 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3617 25 Carpe Diem, Napa Valley 2016 80.00 526 0 Vinified under the strict supervision of Christian Moueix‘s winemaking team in Yountville, California, Carpe Diem embodies the essence of Napa Valley classic Cabernet Sauvignon. Grapes for the Carpe Diem Cabernet Sauvignon have been selected exclusively from the best vineyards in world-renowned Napa Valley. Carpe Diem Cabernet Sauvignon is made in a classic winemaking style, respecting the characteristics of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. The wine is fruit forward, elegant, and exhibits soft tannins, making it pleasant to drink in its youth. Oak is used sparingly to keep Carpe Diem fresh and vibrant. “This is old-school, with bay leaf and savory notes popping out of the core of steeped plum and black currant fruit. Features a tarry edge, a spike of iron and flickers of pepper throughout. Best from 2021 through 2028.” 89 Points, Tasting Highlights June 17, 2019, James Molesworth 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 1394 25 Caymus, Napa Valley 2018 185.00 481 0 In 1971 Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner and his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner asked their son Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner, who had just graduated from high school, if he would be interested in joining them in starting up a winery. If Chuck declined the offer, Charlie and Lorna were planning to sell out of their ranch in Napa Valley and move to Australia. Chuck accepted his parents’ offer to launch the winery, Caymus Vineyards. The Wagners produced their first vintage in 1972, consisting of 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since then, Caymus has focused their efforts in the production of quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Today’s production is 65,000 cases. Caymus Vineyards remains 100% family-owned by the Wagners. Charlie, Lorna Belle, and Chuck worked together as a remarkable team for over 30 years building Caymus Cabernet. Today, Chuck, his two sons, Charlie and Joe, and one daughter, Jenny, have joined the family team. Farming grapes remain the priority with the family farming about 350 acres of choice Napa Valley land. The Wagners took the name Caymus from the Mexican land grant known as Rancho Caymus, given to George Yount in 1836, which encompassed what eventually became the town of Rutherford and much of the surrounding area. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 17 3148 25 Caymus, Napa Valley 2016 355.00 520 0 In 1971 Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner and his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner asked their son Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner, who had just graduated from high school, if he would be interested in joining them in starting up a winery. If Chuck declined the offer, Charlie and Lorna were planning to sell out of their ranch in Napa Valley and move to Australia. Chuck accepted his parents’ offer to launch the winery, Caymus Vineyards. The Wagners produced their first vintage in 1972, consisting of 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since then, Caymus has focused their efforts in the production of quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Today’s production is 65,000 cases. Caymus Vineyards remains 100% family-owned by the Wagners. Charlie, Lorna Belle, and Chuck worked together as a remarkable team for over 30 years building Caymus Cabernet. Today, Chuck, his two sons, Charlie and Joe, and one daughter, Jenny, have joined the family team. Farming grapes remain the priority with the family farming about 350 acres of choice Napa Valley land. The Wagners took the name Caymus from the Mexican land grant known as Rancho Caymus, given to George Yount in 1836, which encompassed what eventually became the town of Rutherford and much of the surrounding area. 1500 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 1.5 L 3520 25 Caymus, Napa Valley 2016 99.00 534 0 In 1971 Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner and his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner asked their son Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner, who had just graduated from high school, if he would be interested in joining them in starting up a winery. If Chuck declined the offer, Charlie and Lorna were planning to sell out of their ranch in Napa Valley and move to Australia. Chuck accepted his parents’ offer to launch the winery, Caymus Vineyards. The Wagners produced their first vintage in 1972, consisting of 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since then, Caymus has focused their efforts in the production of quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Today’s production is 65,000 cases. Caymus Vineyards remains 100% family-owned by the Wagners. Charlie, Lorna Belle, and Chuck worked together as a remarkable team for over 30 years building Caymus Cabernet. Today, Chuck, his two sons, Charlie and Joe, and one daughter, Jenny, have joined the family team. Farming grapes remain the priority with the family farming about 350 acres of choice Napa Valley land. The Wagners took the name Caymus from the Mexican land grant known as Rancho Caymus, given to George Yount in 1836, which encompassed what eventually became the town of Rutherford and much of the surrounding area. 375 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 7 375 ml 2412 25 Caymus, "Special Selection," Napa Valley 2015 375.00 502 0 Caymus was founded in 1972 by Charles Wagner. The name comes from the original Mexican land grant (Rancho Caymus) given to George Yount in 1836. Most of the grapes for this wine come from Napa's famed Rutherford District. Parker - 94. Wine Spectator - 94. James Suckling - 98. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3521 25 Chalk Hill, "Estate Red," Chalk Hill AVA 2015 110.00 476 0 The true essence of Chalk Hill is its estate, a unique corner of California wine country. Here, proprietor Bill Foley both preserves the nature of the land and honors it by producing wines reflecting its exceptional qualities. Perhaps no other winery captures the casual luxury of Sonoma County better than Chalk Hill Estate. Founded nearly four decades ago, this spectacular 1300-acre property features 300 acres of vineyards, wilderness areas, winery, hospitality center, culinary garden, residence, stables, equestrian pavilion, sports fields, fishing and swimming ponds, and guest houses. The winery's vineyards are thoughtfully woven through the native foliage and contoured to fit the intricate terrain. More than two-thirds of the Chalk Hill Estate remains uncultivated. The higher elevations offer stunning views of the Russian River Valley to the west and the Mayacamas Mountains to the east. Soft and rich with a fragrant bouquet of black cherry, black tea and lavender. Black currants, tobacco leaf, dark chocolate and leather. A distinct oak nuance intermingles seamlessly with supple tannins on the long finish. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 5 3359 25 Clerc Milon, Pauillac 2010 325.00 876 0 Château Clerc Milon 2008 Pauillac, Bordeaux, France The wine produced here was classified as one of eighteen Cinquièmes Crus (Fifth Growths) in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. The name of the estate is derived from its former owner Jean-Baptiste Clerc, who owned it at the time of the 1855 classification, and the village of Milon, which also has lent its name to Château Duhart-Milon. Aromas and flavors of incense, creme de cassis and flowers 94 score from Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 1 3633 25 Colgin, "Cariad," Napa Valley 2016 1099.00 543 0 Cariad, the Welsh word for “love”, is a Bordeaux-style red wine blended from three outstanding vineyards owned and managed by David Abreu. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc from Madrona Ranch are blended with small amounts of fruit from Thorevilos and Howell Mountain, producing a wine of enormous proportions with a classic structure that is the Colgin hallmark: a plethora of vibrant aromas, voluptuous at mid-palate, with impeccable balance and an exceptionally long finish. A wine as seductive as its name. "The highlight in this range today, the 2016 Cariad is utterly magnificent. Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot give the wine soaring aromatic intensity and striking savoriness to play off the racy, forward fruit. Time in barrel has done wonders to meld all the elements together. Today, the Cariad is dense, explosive and super-expressive. And yet my sense is that the 2016 still has quite a bit of room to grow. Even at this early stage, the 2016 is a total stunner. The symbiosis of David Abreu fruit and Allison Tauziet's winemaking makes for an electric, unforgettable 2016. Don't miss it. 100 Points" - Antonio Galloni 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 1454 25 Conn Creek, "Anthology," Napa Valley 2014 104.00 474 0 Before winemaker Mike McGrath parked his backpack in Napa in 1982, he spent 13 years in Argentina, logged 20,000 miles on a bicycle in Australia, and explored the backroads of Peru. At the age of 27, he brought to winemaking a world of experience that spanned from Grgich Hills in Napa Valley to Wynn Wine Growers in Australia. Anthology is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 9 3611 25 Corison, Napa Valley 2016 225.00 627 0 In 1987, Cathy Corison began to purchase great Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from prime benchland vineyards between Rutherford and St. Helena, intent on making powerful and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks of place. These well-drained alluvial soils had a long history of producing balanced, age-worthy, world-class wines, reaching back to the late 19th century. In her early years everything was done with smoke and mirrors, using purchased fruit and space in others' wineries. In 1995, with the purchase of Kronos Vineyard, a property that had been a farm for over a century, there was finally an estate vineyard and a place to build a winery. In the spring of 1999 they broke ground to build their stately Victorian-style winery barn, designed by Cathy's husband, William Martin. Their second estate vineyard, Sunbasket, a stone's throw from the winery, was purchased in 2015 after sourcing it for over 25 years. "The 2016 reminds me of the 2014 with the volume turned up a bit. Redolent with bright red currant, blueberry, tart cherry and darker plums, cassis and blackberry fruit, it is wildly complex. The fruit aromatics are complexed by baking spices and floral notes including dried rose petals and violets. Varietal dried herbs add yet another dimension. An alluring yin of minerality and snappy natural acidity play off against the yang of a broad, luscious mouth feel." -Cathy Corison 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3353 25 Cos d'Estournel, Saint-Estèphe 2004 350.00 630 0 Château Cos d'Estournel 2004 St. Estephe, Bordeaux, France The wine produced here was classified as one of 15 Deuxièmes Crus (Second Growths) in the original Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. Château Cos d'Estournel is a Grand Cru vineyard located in St. Estephe. Château Cos d'Estournel today covers 170 acres separated from Château Lafite, along the southern edge, by the stream between St. Estephe and Pauillac. The gravelly soil, over a flint, limestone and silicate subsoil low in nitrogen, has eroded over centuries to form steep ridges that perfectly drain the vineyards. Aromas and flavors of boysenberries, black currants, cherries, pain grille, roasted herbs, and licorice. 94 score from The Wine Spectator 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 1 3543 25 Coup de Foudre, Napa Valley 2016 225.00 912 0 The Coup de Foudre 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot from the Calistoga estate. Total yield was 600 cases. This wine exudes raspberry preserve and crème brûlée from the aromatics to the palate. The luscious fresh fruit and French oak notes are lifted and integrated by bright natural acidity. The balance of tannins and acid will allow this wine to age well in your cellar for many years to come. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3512 25 Chateau Ste. Michelle, "Artist Series," Columbia Valley 2014 120.00 792 0 Winemakers and artists have drawn inspiration from one another for centuries. For our Artist Series Meritage wines, winemaker Bob Bertheau crafts exceptional Bordeaux-style blends of unique power and character that honor world-class artisans such as Dale Chihuly, Alden Mason and Andre Petterson. The very warm 2014 vintage provided fruit with full ripeness and rich concentration, and allowed the sites in the blend to show off their terroir. The blend of four varietals expresses beautiful Washington fruit structure and elegance. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 6 3131 25 Dalla Valle, Napa Valley 2012 435.00 480 0 Dalla Valle Vineyards overlooks the Napa Valley floor from a hillside terrace 400 feet above the Silverado Trail in Oakville. Since Gustav and Naoko Dalla Valle purchased the property in 1982 and began planting vines, this exceptional acreage has continually distinguished itself as the ideal site for producing some of the world’s finest wines, thanks to the perfect convergence of lingering sunlight, cooling marine influence and red volcanic soil. The first vintage of this wine, produced in 1986, established it as an instant Napa Valley classic. Select Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with a small percentage of Cabernet Franc and aged in no greater than 60% new French oak. For close to three decades, this standard-bearer has consistently shown impressive structure and velvety berry flavors. The 2012 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon shows just how good this varietal can be when grown in this very unique terroir. Density and concentration are delivered along with subtlety and nuance, an unusual combination in Napa Valley. The power of the vintage shows through, with intense aromatic notes of black fruits, cedar, and gravel, tightly knit with a strong tannic structure. However, with all that is packed into the wine, there are still many layers that emerge with time in the glass—the tannins show an increasing polish, and the perfume becomes even more effusive and complex—hints that this wine has a long life ahead of it. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 1 3346 25 Dalla Valle, "Collina Red," Napa Valley 2011 250.00 642 0 Dalla Valle Collina Red 2011 Napa, California Dalla Valle Vineyards overlooks the Napa Valley floor from a hillside terrace 400 feet above the Silverado Trail in Oakville. Since Gustav and Naoko Dalla Valle purchased the property in 1982 and began planting vines, this exceptional acreage has continually distinguished itself as the ideal site for producing some of the world’s finest wines, thanks to the perfect convergence of lingering sunlight, cooling marine influence and red volcanic soil. The 2011 Collina Dalla Valle, a blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, is crafted to be accessible and showcases the intensity and complexity that defines the wines of Dalla Valle Vineyards. Structured and dense, the wine is polished and fine grained. With notes of red raspberry, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla, and all spice, it has a viscosity and length that is remarkable. "The 2011 Collina dalla Valle might even be better than the 2010. Plums, spices, violets, menthol, licorice and lavender jump from the glass in a powerful, vibrant wine loaded with pure class and personality. The 2011 is a bit more tannic and darker than the 2010, with striking aromatics, vibrant fruit and great expression of site. The tannins are going to require a year or two to soften, but there is no denying how absolutely gorgeous the 2011 is. If there is any problem with the 2011, it is that it might be too good." Gallani 93+ 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 2546 25 Darioush, Napa Valley 2016 250.00 477 0 Darioush Khaledi grew up in Shiraz, one of Iran's prominent wine-growing regions. His father was a hobbyist winemaker and as a young boy, Khaledi used to sneak sips from the barrel; as a young adult he became a devoted collector of fine wines.Trained as a civil engineer and with a career in construction, Darioush left Iran in the late 1970's and emigrated to Southern California where he was faced with the challenge of rebuilding his life. Darioush and his brother-in-law pooled their resources and purchased a failing grocery store in the city of Los Angeles. Now thirty years later, together they operate one of the most successful independently owned grocery businesses in the United States, which alone employs over 1500 people. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 3483 25 Caravan (Darioush), Napa Valley 2014 115.00 693 0 Darioush Khaledi was instilled at an early age with the winemaking craft of his father, inspired by wine culture in the literary city of Shiraz - in modern day Iran - and the ancient city of Persepolis. He became a lifelong collector, seeking out old world wines infused with tradition and energized by modern technique. Aspiring to the ideals of the American dream, Darioush immigrated to America to seek out opportunities others overlooked. He was an entrepreneur determined to realize his dream, yet always eager to share his journey through his love of wine borne of rich heritage. In 1997, Darioush and his wife Shahpar founded Darioush and began to realize a lifelong aspiration to share the art, architecture, wine, craftsmanship and culture that inspired their journey. A classically-styled round, supple and sleek red blend – 2014 Caravan is the first vintage to highlight higher proportions of Merlot. The resulting profile is ripe and decadent with palate-pleasing notes of juicy plum, raspberry and flourless chocolate cake. Cabernet Sauvignon, the lion’s share of the blend, adds layers of complexity and an ideal balance between sweet and savory elements. It’s supple yet firm and polished tannin is complemented by dark, spicy notes of black currant and cinnamon; Caravan has a youthful energy that would reward several years of aging. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 1 3516 25 David Arthur, "Three Acre," Napa Valley 2014 275.00 907 0 ‘Three Acre’ Cabernet Sauvignon showcases how stunning Napa Valley mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon can be. The rising star in David’s vineyard, Clone 337, thrives above the fogline at over one thousand feet above the valley floor. Extended hours of sunlight give these grapes the opportunity to express their inherent ripe-fruit characteristics while the small, thick skinned berries give us a high ratio of skins to must during the maceration and fermentation process. Twenty months in blue-chip French Oak barrels gives this wine the opportunity to express a wide range of baking spices and aromatics. The resulting wine is fullbodied, fruit-expressive and bold with gripping tannins that offer a seemingly never-ending finish. A dense, dark ruby red color shows savory fruit notes of wild black currant, blackberry and raspberry. The aromas hint at cocoa, wild anise and bay laurel, followed by sage blossom and earthy spice notes. The palate is powerful and rich with fine grain tannins and remarkable plushness. This wine finishes with flavors of baked cherry, cedar-box spice notes and currant. Best from 2019 to 2029. 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petite Verdot 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3268 25 Duckhorn, Napa Valley 2016 99.00 571 1 Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent almost forty years establishing itself as one of North America’s premier producers of Napa Valley wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today. The quality of Duckhorn Vineyards' wines has always been based on a commitment to selecting the finest fruit. Whether carefully sourcing grapes from top sites in the Napa Valley or committing itself to estate vineyards, the winery was built on the belief that great wines begin in the vineyard. At Duckhorn Vineyards this has always meant an emphasis on site and terroir. Today, the winery's seven estate vineyards are located in alluvial fans of the Napa Valley as well as on the coveted slopes of Howell Mountain. Winemaker Renee Ary has numerous vineyard blocks to choose from, each offering markedly different flavor profiles. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 33 2680 25 Duckhorn, "Decoy," Red Wine, Sonoma Valley 2017 62.00 462 0 Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent more than 30 years establishing itself as one of North America's premier producers of Bordeaux varietal wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today. 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon 2% Petit Verdot. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 29 3357 25 Ducru Beaucaillou, St. Julien 2008 350.00 881 0 Château Ducru Beaucaillou 2008 St-Julien, Bordeaux, France The wine produced here was classified as one of fifteen Deuxièmes Crus (Second Growths) in the original Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. The estate Château Ducru-Beaucaillou was purchased by Francois Borie in 1941 and has remained in the family since along with the family's other estates Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste and Château Haut-Batailley. Aromas and flavors of chocolate, coffee and sweet plum. 96 score from Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 2 2866 25 Eberle, "Vineyard Selection," Paso Robles 2016 52.00 428 0 In 1973, Gary Eberle began his career in the wine industry by heading his family’s Estrella River Winery (currently 360 Degrees in Paso Robles) and produced 500,000 cases a year at its facility. Eberle’s pioneering spirit didn’t stop there. In 1980, he co-founded the Paso Robles Appellation and in 1983, Gary opened the doors to his own Eberle Winery with the premiere of Eberle’s 1979 Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Eberle handcrafts 25,000 cases of wine each year from surrounding Estate vineyards. And, after more than 33 years since the release of the Eberle label, the winery consistently remains one of the highest award-winning wineries in the United States. 750 1 0 13.00 1 30 2 jpg 177 2865 25 Kristine Ashe, "Entre Nous," Oakville - Napa 2009 310.00 542 0 This modern wine is crafted the old way – completely by hand. The journey starts in the estate vineyard, where they meticulously micro- farm one-acre blocks of Cabernet fruit entirely by hand. Night harvesting, manual de-stemming and barrel fermentation unlock diverse aromatics, complex flavors and a purity of fruit that cannot be achieved by mechanical methods. The structured finesse and graceful balance of every element mark this wine as the work of a master craftsman. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon 10% Merlot 5% Petite Verdot Winemaker - Phillipe Melka 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 1 3264 25 Faust, Napa Valley 2017 120.00 541 0 Faust is a tribute to Napa Valley's noblest grape, full-bodied, decadently rich and unctuous Cabernet Sauvignon. To express the complexity of the grape and diversity of the Napa Valley, Faust sources Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Agustin’s family vineyards in Rutherford and Coombsville, plus small lots from spectacular mountain and valley terroirs such as Atlas Peak, Mount Veeder, Oakville and St. Helena. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 7 3127 25 Faust, "The Pact," Napa Valley 2016 185.00 761 0 The Pact is sourced from Coombsville in the eastern foothills south of Atlas Peak. It is Napa Valley’s newest appellation and Faust’s home vineyard location. The marine breeze from nearby San Pablo Bay provides a cooler climate than Napa Valley’s more northern appellations allowing for slow, even ripening and an extended hang time which results in excellent structure, dark fruit character and layered complexity. The Pact honors one of the most famous agreements in literature – the pivotal moment when Dr. Faust trades his soul to satisfy his mortal desire for the beautiful maiden, Margarete, and his quest for renewed passion and youth. It also speaks to Agustin’s belief in Coombsville and all that it has to offer – power, complexity and elegance. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 3435 25 Figgins, Walla Walla Valley 2014 225.00 549 0 Perfectly situated on the south slope where Mill Creek enters the Walla Walla Valley, Figgins Estate Vineyard experiences an incredibly rapid evening cooling from the nearby Blue Mountains at sunset. This consistent diurnal shift is what maintains the grapes’ beautiful acidity and balance in warm, rich vintages such as this. Our 2014 Estate Red Wine is a true representation of Figgins Estate Vineyard in its prime. Now entering the vineyard’s 15th leaf, this vintage shows the site’s ability to produce world-class fruit. The wine is deeply colored and bursts from the glass with baking spices, pan-reduced brambles, blueberry, and dried fig. It is delightfully fresh with a deep current of ripe fruit that runs the course of the palate. The ultra-fine tannins provide for a long and smooth finish. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 4 3497 25 Flora Springs, "Trilogy," Napa Valley 2015 130.00 685 0 The genesis of Trilogy, one of Napa Valley’s first Bordeaux-style red blends, dates back to 1984. Trilogy continues to be sourced exclusively from the Komes-Garvey estate vineyards, and in 2015 this iconic wine brings together Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdotfrom St. Helena, Rutherford and Oakville. Bold, rich and highly extracted, this generous red is packed with boysenberry, black cherry, dark plum and black currant layered with milk chocolate, vanilla bean, cola and a hint of earthy cedar. Seasoned French and American oak adds just the right amount of toasty warmth, and the wine’s tannins, while firm, are round and smooth. This is a decadent wine, almost Port-like in its abundant fruit, with an umami-like unctuousness that leads to a long, satisfying finish. 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 3550 25 Frank Family, Napa Valley 2016 140.00 346 0 In the late 80s, Frank Rich, a long-time Disney executive, couldn’t find the time to get away for long vacations. Soon he started coming to Napa on the weekends, realizing it was only a short plane flight away from Los Angeles. In 1990, he purchased a home in the eastern hills of Napa in Rutherford. Two years later, in 1992, Rich received a midnight phone call at his home in Los Angeles from his friend Koerner Rombauer, telling him that the Kornell Champagne Cellars on the site of historic Larkmead Winery was for sale and if there was ever a time to get into the wine business it was now. Rich wisely told Koerner to offer half the asking price, and less than 24 hours later, the two were co-owners of the Calistoga winery. Seamlessly woven in black cherry and cocoa, our flagship Cabernet is sumptuous and seductive in structure and complexity. The palate offers flavors of hazelnut, baked plum, and cloves while brilliant acidity on the finish balances the concentration of flavors and tannins. 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 19 3149 25 Frank Family, Napa Valley 2016 230.00 528 0 In the late 80s, Frank Rich, a long-time Disney executive, couldn’t find the time to get away for long vacations. Soon he started coming to Napa on the weekends, realizing it was only a short plane flight away from Los Angeles. In 1990, he purchased a home in the eastern hills of Napa in Rutherford. Two years later, in 1992, Rich received a midnight phone call at his home in Los Angeles from his friend Koerner Rombauer, telling him that the Kornell Champagne Cellars on the site of historic Larkmead Winery was for sale and if there was ever a time to get into the wine business it was now. Rich wisely told Koerner to offer half the asking price, and less than 24 hours later, the two were co-owners of the Calistoga winery. 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc. 1500 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 1.5 L 2576 25 Freemark Abbey, Napa Valley 2016 100.00 611 0 In 1967, seven partners purchased Freemark Abbey, setting the stage for a new era of creativity. The winery earned the nickname the “University of Freemark” due to the sheer number of innovations and significant winemakers that emerged from their cellars. In 1976, wine expert Steven Spurrier conducted a legendary blind tasting in Paris – pitting the upstart wines of California against the establishment of France. Of the 12 American wineries chosen to compete, only Freemark Abbey had two wines represented – a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon. In an upset that shocked the wine world, California wines won every category of the tasting, putting Napa Valley firmly on the world stage. 750 1 0 25.00 1 28 2 jpg 59 3479 25 Château Perron, Graves 2015 55.00 371 0 In 1531, Jean de Pontac, owner of Château Haut Brion, acquired Chateau Perron after witnessing its potential to produce great Graves wines. Today this lovely estate is owned and managed by the Guignard family, wine growers since 1610, that are now the leading vineyard owners in the Graves region. The company is run by the three Guignard brothers, Bruno, Dominique and Pascal, who have become the most important producers of the Graves appellation and are recognized as the true specialists of the region. Dominique Guignard is the agricultural engineer who studied at the Ecole Superieure d’Agriculture de Purpan and worked abroad in the United States before returning to his family’s winery in 1990. 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 1 2858 25 Groth, Oakville - Napa Valley 2015 140.00 449 0 Groth Vineyards & Winery was established in 1982 and produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay from Napa Valley's Oakville AVA. In special years they make a "Reserve" bottling of Cabernet Sauvignon from a small lot in their 121 acre Oakville Estate. The Groths also own and operate the 44-acre Hillview Vineyard in Yountville, a prime source for the Winery's Chardonnay and Merlot. From its inception the winery has been family owned and operated. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 17 3277 25 Antinori, "Guado al Tasso," Bolgheri Superiore 2016 235.00 839 0 The Antinori family has been involved in the production of wine for over six centuries, ever since, in 1385, Giovanni di Piero Antinori entered as a member, the “Arte Fiorentina”, the Winemakers’ Guild of the city of Florence. During this entire long period, thorough twenty six generations, the family has always directly managed this work with courageous and, at times, innovative decisions, but always maintaining, unaltered, a fundamental respect for tradition and for the territory in which they have operated. The harvest at the Guado al Tasso estate is carried out exclusively by hand, with the grapes picked into small, fifteen kilogram packing cases. The grapes are inspected on two different occasions: first, on the sorting table, only entirely healthy and undamaged grape bunches are selected and then, after destemming, the berries are chosen, one by one, to insure that only perfectly ripe grapes finish in the fermenting tanks. As in every vintage, the crop is fermented vineyard block by vineyard block and parcel by parcel on the basis of the specific characteristics of each single plot. Fermentation and skin contact lasted for 15-20 days and were carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. After the wine was run off its skins, the finest lots went directly into new, 60 gallon French oak barrels where they also were put through a complete malolactic fermentation. Subsequently, after a year of aging, the finest lots were blended together and aged for a further six months in oak before bottling. Guado al Tasso was produced for the first time in 1990. It takes its name from a curious phenomenon: at the Guado al Tasso estate it is often possible to spot badgers, normally shy animals, crossing the fords of the streams which run through the property, and this is recalled in its name. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 5 3265 25 Hall, Napa Valley 2016 85.00 524 0 Craig and Kathryn Walt Hall arrived in Napa Valley in 1995 with a singular vision to develop a great wine estate, showcasing Napa Valley’s finest variety: Cabernet Sauvignon. They were not newcomers to the wine industry nor the entrepreneurial spirit, as Kathryn developed a passion for wines growing up in her family’s vineyards in Mendocino County, and Craig had been a successful entrepreneur for many years. The wine industry took time, patience, and dedication to do something truly special. Further, their ambitions were delayed by four years when Kathryn was appointed as the U.S. Ambassador to Austria between 1997 and 2001. Since their return in 2002, the Halls have embarked on a path to create some of the most compelling wines, facilities, and vineyards in Napa. Led by Director of Winemaking Steve Leveque, HALL wines are crafted to accentuate plush, extracted-fruit character and soft, fine-grain tannins. Steve relies on native yeast fermentation and chooses a minimalist approach in the unique structure and flavor of each vineyard and allowing them to reach their maximum potential. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 21 3480 25 Chateau du Raux, Haut-Médoc - Cru Bourgeois 2015 45.00 370 1 The vineyards, which comprise 50 acres, surround the 18th century château and farm buildings lying 89 feet above sea level. The soil consists of sand and gravel for the first three feet while the subsoil is composed of a deep layer of clay. This terroir combination is exceptionally conducive to promoting the development of high quality vines. The surface soil enables a slow growth process as a result of its poor mineral substances, whereas the subsoil provides water regularly. The trellised vines are 27 years of age and trained in the Double Guyot method. In accordance with the great growths of Médoc, Château du Raux is well situated near the Gironde Estuary which provides an oceanic climate that is both mild and humid. The name “Raux” stems from the ancient Oc language (the old dialect of the region) and means “stream,” a nod to its positioning near the Gironde Estuary. Château du Raux produces a wine typical of the Médoc—deep in color, full bodied and seamlessly structured with room to develop if cellared The nose offers pleasing spices which lead to a smooth and clean yet elegant palate. 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 13 1606 25 Heitz, Napa 2014 150.00 461 0 When Heitz opened in 1961, there were less than 20 wineries in Napa Valley. Their Cabernet is known as one of the original classic Napa Cabs. Heitz is also known for being one of the wineries participating in the famous Paris wine tasting of 1976. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 20 3122 25 Husic "Palm Terrace," Napa Valley 2016 140.00 512 0 On the Husic’s hillside property, overlooking the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, Julie and Frank set out to realize a life-long dream. In 1997, moving endless rocks and sculpting narrow terraces that cling to the mountain’s edge, they planted three small, extremely steep Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards, which peacefully coexist with the region’s wildlife. The rugged, rocky growing conditions, combined with careful farming methods, have yielded a limited amount of magnificent fruit. Now on their 15th release, offering two Cabernets – Husic Vineyards and Palm Terrace, both wines come from the three estate vineyards. In addition, two wines from Sonoma Coast: Husic Vineyards Chardonnay, and Husic Vineyards Pinot Noir. They also offer a limited amount of a lovely Palm Terrace Rosé of Pinot Noir and an exquisite Husic Vineyards Late Harvest Semillon. The Husic family is proud to share these beautiful wines with you. "Our Palm Terrace 2016 has turned out beautifully, with a lifted, aromatic personality and hallmark elegance. A classic Napa Cab color with a bright ruby edge invites the eye. On the nose, the wine displays abundant aromatics of blueberry, damson plum, black currant, potpourri and sage. In the mouth, the wine is fluid and graceful, with deep flavors and very soft tannins, lending a lot of finesse to this complex wine from our estate. The finish is equally soft and lush, with length to spare." 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 1882 25 Inglenook, "Cask," Rutherford-Napa 2014 165.00 452 0 The winery sits on a portion of the historic Napa Valley property first acquired in 1879 by a Finnish Sea Captain Gustave Niebaum, founder of the Inglenook Winery.In 1975, Francis Ford Coppola and his wife Eleanor, purchased Niebaum’s Victorian home, along with surrounding vineyards. In 1995, Coppola reunited the two original Inglenook parcels by purchasing the grand Inglenook chateau and surrounding vineyards. The winery underwent a name change in early 2006, and is now known as Rubicon Estate. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3630 25 J. Lohr, "Pure Paso," Proprietary Red Blend, Paso Robles 2017 50.00 521 0 J. Lohr Pure Paso artfully blends Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah – two J. Lohr benchmark varieties – into a unique proprietary red wine. The two varieties have long been intertwined in J. Lohr’s winegrowing history and, in particular, the Lohr family’s pioneering efforts in the Paso Robles region. “The Cabernet Sauvignon component was selected from highly pigmented blocks, primarily from Shotwell. We chose Petite Sirah fruit that demonstrated a jammy, blackberry character and saturated color from the Home Ranch. Missouri-sourced oak from coopers Demptos and Nadalie provided a torrefaction and roasted lactone barrel signature. The final blend is a balance of the two primary varieties, so that neither has a dominant character; they harmonize.” —Steve Peck, Director of Winemaking 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 6 1766 25 Jordan, Alexander Valley 2015 140.00 458 0 When successful geologist and wine connoisseur Tom Jordan first came to Northern California in the early 1970s, he was quick to appreciate the potential apparent in the Alexander Valley for a premium vineyard and winery. In 1972, he acquired 275 acres of prune orchards for conversion to vineyards, plus 1300 acres of woodlands as a site for the future winery facility as well as an informal preserve for deer, wild turkey, coyotes, waterfowl, and other wildlife. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 21 3328 25 Jumilla, "El Nido" 2014 250.00 810 0 The first steps of this winery began to bear fruit in late 2001 as a result of the partnership between the Gil family and Chris Ringland, one of Australia's best winemakers. The first harvest sold was the 2002 vintage under the brands of El Nido and Clio. The grapes for this wine are made from 12 Ha -29.65 acres- of Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards and 32 Ha -79 acres- of very old Monastrell, with a very low yield. The grapes are harvested with small baskets to prevent bruising. The bunches are brought to triage tables where the best ones are selected. It spends 24 months in French and American new oak barrels where it gets a very typical complexity. 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Monastrell 750 0 0 6 36 2 jpg 4 2557 25 Justin, Paso Robles 2017 58.00 431 0 Justin Winery is a family owned and operated winery making estate grown and produced wines. The property was founded in 1981 by Justin and Deborah Baldwin when they planted their 160 acre property to the major Bordeaux varietals and created their Estate vineyard. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 29 2009 25 Justin, Paso Robles 2017 35.00 417 0 Justin Winery is a family owned and operated winery making estate grown and produced wines. The property was founded in 1981 by Justin and Deborah Baldwin when they planted their 160 acre property to the major Bordeaux varietals and created their Estate vineyard. 375 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 12 375 ml 2006 25 Justin, "Isosceles," Paso Robles 2016 180.00 540 0 Justin Winery is a family owned and operated winery making estate grown and produced wines. The property was founded in 1981 by Justin and Deborah Baldwin when they planted their 160 acre property to the major Bordeaux varietals and created their Estate vineyard. 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 4 753 25 Kendall-Jackson, "Grand Reserve," Sonoma County 2014 60.00 444 0 Grand Reserve wines are crafted from 100% Jackson Estates Grown grapes which are hand-selected from our vineyard estates. These wines capture the regional expression of the vineyard blocks that they look to year after year. In the winery, artisan winemaking techniques prevail, and aging takes place in small French oak barrels. From California's breathtaking coastal winegrowing regions, their winemakers draw a rich palette of aromas and flavors to handcraft wines of exceptional depth and complexity. Grand Reserve wines offer rich regional expression and depth of varietal character. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 1 3636 25 Korbin Kameron, Moon Mountain District 2014 80.00 523 0 The first time Mitchell Ming saw the beautiful 180 acre property on top of Mt. Veeder, he fell in love with the land. He first started drinking Californian wines in the 1970s and knew he wanted to make wine after his first trip to the wine country. He is constantly making improvements upon the vineyard including look out points and a koi pond. With the help of Timothy Milos & Phil Coturri, the vineyard is now producing great wines for years to come. The 19 acre estate vineyard was planted in 2000 and named Korbin Kameron Vineyard, after a year of meticulous planning, clearing, and grading. It sits on the ridge of Mt. Veeder on the Mayacamas Mountain Range and straddles the Napa/Sonoma county line at 2,300 ft. in elevation, the majority of the vineyard being on the Sonoma side. This South-West facing vineyard makes an ideal location for growing high quality Bordeaux varieties; Cabernet Sauvignon: clones 7, & 337; Merlot: clone 181, Cabernet Franc: clone 4; Malbec: clone 585; Petit Verdot: clone 1. Semillon Clone 1 and Sauvignon Blanc clone 1 and Musque are currently being budded over from 2 acres of Cabernet. Great morning sun exposure without the intense heat gives the grapes a full day of long filtered sunlight. The late afternoon maritime winds cool down the grapes and put them to bed at night, stretching out the growing season. These two combinations properly ripen the grapes to a balanced maturity, giving them dense & lengthy flavors profiles. The soil on the site is predominantly made up of ancient seabed sprinkled with a layer of volcanic ash. Spreckles loam and Goulding clay loam can be found in the vineyard, but the majority of the vines were planted Suther loam. This gravelly loam is perfect for growing top notch Cabernet Sauvignon because of its extremely well draining properties. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 12 3572 25 Krutz, Stagecoach Vineyard, Napa Valley 2015 175.00 904 0 Stagecoach Vineyard has become one of the most renowned vineyards in Napa Valley. It rises from 1,200 feet above sea level to nearly 1,850 feet at its highest on the southern side of the Oakville appellation’s Pritchard Hill and Atlas Peak. With south-facing slopes filled with shallow, volcanic soils, its rugged terroir is idealfor growing intense cabernet sauvignon. Built around a rich and supple core of dark cherry, cassis and dried berries, the 2015 vintage from Stagecoach also reveals complex layers of cocoa powder, tobacco and cinnamon. The intensity and depth of flavor is matched by heaps of sturdy hillside tannins. A big, bold but also smooth Napa Mountain Cab from a very light yielding, drought vintage. Built to age another decade plus. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3519 25 Kuleto Estate, Napa Valley 2014 175.00 905 0 Kuleto is one of the most complex and diverse wine producing properties in the world. Located in the volcanic mountains of eastern Napa the estate features 781 total acres and 82.9 acres of vines perched along ridges and clinging to steep hillsides. The soils, exposures, elevation changes and sub-climates are so complex that they have delineated the property into more than 100 micro-blocks. Each of these tiny plots is treated as an individual vineyard with varieties, clones, rootstocks, density, trellising and farming methods tailored specifically to the site. For winemaker John Clews, there is a mutual understanding that all but a small percentage of the winemaker’s work is done in the vineyard. Keeping the vineyard’s serpentine twists and exposures in mind, the best-suited varietals for each block have been selected. Working with the land, not against it, the individually terraced lots are not oriented to one central direction, but instead are planted to maximize the benefits of their natural location. The 2014 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon exudes fresh blackberry, candied fruits, and sweet high-toned herbs in the nose. I can’t remember a more aromatic expression of the estate. The oak treatment supports but doesn’t overwhelm the flavors and provides a nice lengthy backbone through the wine. It has a juiciness that is consistent with the fruit flavors and tremendous focus. This is a wine to enjoy over many years to come. 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 3% Syrah, 2% Malbec 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 2525 25 Larkmead, Napa Valley 2014 299.00 773 0 The historic Larkmead Estate is comprised of 145 acres, of which 113 are planted to seven different grape varieties, ranging in age from new plantings to over 120 years old. Larkmead's vineyards date back to the late 1800s, and have been owned by the Solari family since 1948. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 3490 25 Larkmead Proprietary Red, Napa Valley 2015 150.00 623 0 The 100% Cabernet 2015 Larkmead Cellars Proprietary Red hails from the same Calistoga terroir as one of the estate's top wines, The Lark. It’s a dark, crimson-ruby color, and bursting with black currant and black cherry fruit, as well as aromas of vanilla, pipe tobacco, sweet spice, and violets. It’s dense and full on the palate, with black cherry, chocolate, and baking spice, all leading to a lingering sweet tobacco note and fine-grained tannins on the finish. This is an approachable Napa Cab from a master, and it will evolve beautifully over the next decade. "Two thousand fifteen was an early harvest at Larkmead, not only due to drought conditions throughout the year but also because it was one of the warmest summers in the Napa Valley in five years’ time. Under these conditions, we saw our yields decline more than 10% across the estate vineyard. With a little extra headroom in our stainless steel fermentation tanks, we used this as an opportunity to continue our trials with co-fermentations. In this vintage of our Cellar’s Proprietary Red, we decided to co-ferment one of our youngest parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon with our oldest parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon, planted in 1995. These two, divided by the Napa River, are a match in the glass and are reflective of the vintage’s approachable fruitfulness. Please enjoy our first release from the 2015 vintage. The combination of young and old vines may not be as noticeable on the nose and palate at first, but as you spend time with the wine in the glass, you will appreciate the vibrant, blue and black fruit of the young vines jumping out of the glass; as these plum skin and blackberry aromas fade the wine reveals its bramble and cassis core that you find in low-yielding, old Cabernet Sauvignon vines." 485 cases produced. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3315 25 Purlieu, "Le Pich," Napa Valley 2016 99.00 485 0 Aromas of black plum, blackberries, blackcherry, lilacs and graphite. This full-bodied 100% Cabernet is rich and beautifully balanced with flavors fully ripened black fruit, floral notes, and melted chocolate and leading to an explosive long finish. This is every thing you would expect from the winemaking team of Steve Matthiasson and Julien Fayard (Philippe Melka's previous director of winemaking at Lail, Gemstone, Vineyard 29 and more.). Outstanding effort. 400 cases made. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 11 3218 25 Leonetti Cellars, Walla Walla 2016 225.00 716 1 "Dark and brooding, our 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon has a beautiful nose of blackberries, blue fruits, spices, and black tea, perfectly framed by a light touch of toasted French oak. As a warm year in the Walla Walla Valley, Cabernet truly shined and yielded deliciously generous wine with a long, pure finish. Classic Leonetti Cabernet from a remarkable vintage. We are so blessed to have four incredible vineyards which all contribute unique characteristics to our Cab and its remarkably consistent quality. " 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot, 7% Malbec. 2876 cases produced. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 3 3128 25 Leviathan, Red Wine, California 2017 105.00 610 0 With Leviathan, the goal is simple: to produce one singular red wine each vintage. Drawing on vineyard sources across California, proprietors Annie Favia and Andy Erickson look to create a unique blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot. “With all of the other projects I work on, for Favia, as well as for my winemaking clients, the focus is always on producing single vineyard, site-specific wines. With Leviathan I have complete latitude to create something unique from many different parts. It is like a brain-teaser, and very fun and exciting. California is rich and diverse in terms of grape-growing regions, and I love working to create something that reflects the best that California has to offer.” - Andy Erickson, Winemaker 750 0 0 1 30 2 jpg 6 3266 25 Mazei, "Philip," Cabernet Sauvignon, Toscana IGT 2014 110.00 626 0 The history of the Mazzei family is closely woven into Tuscany's winemaking history, as well as the regions rich political and cultural past. Ser Lapo Mazzei (1350-1412) a winemaker from Carmignano is considered father of the Chianti name. The extraordinary Fonterutoli estate in Chianti has been owned by the Mazzei family since 1435 and has passed down through 24 generations. Philip is an extraordinary wine created to both honor the great ancestor Philip Mazzei - a passionate grape grower, forward thinker and citizen of the world. Philip is blend of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon grapes selected from all the Mazzei's Tuscan estates. Harmonious flavors of dark fruit, dried flowers, chocolate and vanilla. Exotic, complex character, full bodied with polished tannins. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 7 1510 25 Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley 2016 90.00 597 0 Mount Veeder Winery was the first vineyard in Napa Valley planted to all five of the grape varieties used in a classic Bordeaux blend. They feel that blending is the key to crafting the most complete, balanced wine and enhancing the inherent characteristics of each variety. The ultimate goal is the creation of a rich, seamless wine. The winery's slogan is "wines with altitude". 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 14 3147 25 Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley 2016 170.00 616 0 Mount Veeder Winery was the first vineyard in Napa Valley planted to all five of the grape varieties used in a classic Bordeaux blend. They feel that blending is the key to crafting the most complete, balanced wine and enhancing the inherent characteristics of each variety. The ultimate goal is the creation of a rich, seamless wine. The winery's slogan is "wines with altitude". 1500 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 1.5 L 1230 25 Neal Family, Napa Valley 2014 125.00 493 0 Neal Vineyards is a family run winery founded by Jack Neal in Rutherford in 1968. The vineyards are farmed organically, and the wines are hand made and naturally fermented. The Cabernet comes from vineyards in Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak, Mt. Veeder, Rutherford, and St. Helena. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3347 25 Neal Family, "One Lane Bridge," Napa Valley 2004 299.00 643 0 Neal Family "One Lane Bridge" Mount Veeder, Napa, CA A rich, ripe, complex nose of fruit and almost Syrah-like fruit, along with lovely vanilla toast, nutmeg, leathery & berry fruit. This year we found it to have a very big, broad mouth, with a rich, mouth-coating texture, velvety & firm tannins. Full of very dark cherry fruit, cassis and violets, finishing with well integrated oak, big tannins and a mouth-watering finish. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 1 3531 25 Neyers, "Left Bank," Red Wine, Napa Valley 2016 85.00 399 1 The 2016 Left Bank Red is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Merlot. Both vineyards are planted in the gravelly soil at the south end of the Conn Valley ranch, on the left bank of Conn Creek as it flows through the property on its way from the top of Howell Mountain to the Napa River in Rutherford. The soil profile from a recent well drilling has shown the gravel deposit on this section of the vineyard is almost 40 feet deep, and with the combination of nearby sandy-loam and basalt soils, serves as an ideal spot for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to mingle. Winemaker Tadeo Borchardt focuses on small yields, grown on vines propagated from heirloom budwood selections. Each vineyard is separately hand-harvested, and each cluster is closely examined on our sorting table before de-stemming. Fermentation is carried out using only native, wild yeast, and the separate wines are aged in a combination of new and used 60-gallon French oak barrels. The blend is immediately appealing, with its combination of bright raspberry flavors balanced by the charm of the wild cherry component of the Merlot. The gravelly soil provides a subtle hint of minerality, making the wine both complete and complex. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 15 3457 25 Nickel and Nickel, "Hayne Vineyard," Napa Valley 2017 225.00 795 0 The Hayne Vineyard is situated in St. Helena at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains and is well known for its single vineyard wines from the site. The vines are small to moderate in size due to the gravelly, loam soils and the vineyard produces small yields. The warm St. Helena temperatures are ideal for producing sweet, jammy fruit and this vineyard tends to be picked at the beginning of harvest each year. The 2015 Hayne Cabernet Sauvignon is a show-stopper. The concentration of this vintage is revealed as mixed berry aromas combine with graphite, vanilla and toast to excite the senses. The palate offers candied flavors of raspberry, cherry and plum wrapped up with hints of dust and spice. A coating texture unites these flavors creating a package that is rich from start to finish. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3413 25 Tenuta di Nozzole, "Il Pareto," Toscana IGT 2014 175.00 705 0 At 350 meters in elevation, the 10-acre Il Pareto vineyard has clay soil with lime and gravel-size stones. The soil composition is ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, with a high proportion of galestro rock. Il Pareto grapes are manually harvested, destemmed and crushed before fermentation and malolactic fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Maceration on the lees for 15 days promotes the extraction of optimal color and fine, structured tannins. The wine is aged in Allier oak barriques, part new and part one year old, for 16 months, and then in bottle for a minimum of 6 months. This wine's classic Cabernet aromas and flavors of cassis and black fruits have intriguing dried herb, spice, vanilla and cedar notes. On the palate, jammy fruit leads to firm, noble tannins before a long finish. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 4 1843 25 Oberon, Napa Valley 2017 50.00 424 0 This wine is named after Oberon, King of Shadows and Fairies, who is best known as a character in William Shakespeare's play, A Midsummer Night's Dream. He is Consort to Titania, Queen of the Fairies. Produced by Rob Mondavi, Jr. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 20 2776 25 Orin Swift, "Mercury Head," Napa Valley 2017 275.00 453 0 Orin Swift Cellars is the realization of a dream that began while Dave Phinney was studying abroad at the University of Florence in Florence, Italy. Like so many other college students he was at odds with what to do upon graduation. Fortunately, his roommate at the time was from an old wine family in the Sonoma valley and he had a great suggestion: "Why not get into the wine business? You seem to like wine." Mercury Head is the slang term for the authentic Liberty Dime which serves as the wine's "front label". As a kid Dave Phinney collected these dimes. Years later, after getting one with some change, he was reminded how striking they are. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 1557 25 Ornellaia, Bolgheri Superiore 2013 405.00 658 0 From its position on the hillside close to Bolgheri, The Ornellaia estate lies hidden in the foothills around Bolgheri that face the Mediterranean coast. The cool maritime breeze caresses this exceptional Estate and its surrounding olive groves throughout the summer months. During the winter the hills give protection from the cold northern winds. Ornellaia believes that wines should be the truest expression of the terroir from which they come. The diverse nature of the Estate’s soils – marine, alluvial and volcanic – coupled with this maritime climate create an environment in which red and white varietals can express themselves to the full. This myriad of individual parcels of vines fit into this unspoilt landscape like a mosaic, creating a unique expression of beauty and complexity in an exceptional place. While experience, skill and determination have all played their part in enhancing the quality and reputation of Ornellaia, it is the Estate itself that is continual source of inspiration, suggesting unique and exciting ways to capture its natural generosity. 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 4 3354 25 Palmer, Margaux 2002 499.00 645 0 Château Palmer 2002 Red Blend from Margaux, Bordeaux, France The blend is 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot. The wine produced here, was classified as one of fourteen Troisièmes Crus (Third Growths) in the historic Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. A gentleman, officer, and aide-de-camp of the Prince of Wales, Charles Palmer was famous at the English court as a ladies man and for his military victories. He fell under the spell of Bordeaux as well as the charms of Marie de Gascq, a beautiful widow who convinced him to buy her estate. In June 1853, the brothers Isaac and Emile Péreire, famous bankers and rivals of the Rothschilds, bought Palmer and began investing in the estate immediately. However, there was not enough time to bring Château Palmer up to first growth status in time for the famous 1855 classification. It was thus ranked a Third Growth, although it is widely recognized as among the greatest wines of Bordeaux. Rich aromas of vanilla, chocolate and berry with flavors of black currants, plums, licorice, and a hint of cappuccino. 95 score from Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate 91 score from The Wine Spectator 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 1 3619 25 Paradigm, Oakville - Napa Valley 2014 185.00 538 0 Paradigm Winery is owned and managed by Ren and Marilyn Harris, two winegrowers with extraordinarily deep roots in Napa Valley. Marilyn's grandparents immigrated from Italy to Napa Valley in 1890, while Ren's family came to California in 1769. Marilyn and Ren moved to Napa Valley in the 1960's and settled into their home just east of where Paradigm sits today. Through a career in vineyard real estate, Ren learned much about the diverse growing regions in Napa Valley. In 1976, when they decided to purchase vineyards of their own, Oakville was the clear choice. Paradigm Winery was founded several years later and began producing wine with the 1991 vintage. Ren and Marilyn hired a young and talented winemaker, Heidi Barrett, who has been with Paradigm since the beginning. They all felt a shared passion for making great wine, and a determination to preserve the small, family-owned style of winery that Napa Valley was built on. With an incredibly loyal team, Paradigm Winery maintains a hands-on approach to all winemaking and vineyard operations, nothing is outsourced. Every bottle you uncork was grown, crushed, fermented, barrel aged, bottled and stored on site. Ren and Marilyn have been tireless advocates for the Oakville appellation, eco-friendly farming, and environmental stewardship. "The 2014 vintage produced some delicious rich wines and this deeply colored Cab is no exception. The aromas are enticing and open, showing ripe fruit, complexity, and layers of refined French Oak. This is a very expressive complete wine that will age beautifully. Mouthcoating flavors of blackcherry, currant, and blackberry followed by chewy tannins lead to an overall palate feel that is delicious. With perfect balance and ripeness, this is a stellar vintage." — Heidi Peterson Barrett 90 % Cabernet Sauvignon 8% Merlot 1% Cabernet Franc 1% Petit Verdot 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 1905 25 Paul Hobbs, "Crossbarn," Napa 2016 136.00 413 0 Paul Hobbs believes that the key to good winemaking is paying attention. He says he started paying attention at an early age, the day his father brought home a bottle of 1962 Château d’Yquem and poured it into little paper cups around the family dinner table. The bouquet, the flavor, and the experience made an impression on him, and he became passionate about wine and the vineyards that produce it. In 1969, he convinced his father to uproot a section of their apple orchard and replant it with wine grapes, which his father put him in charge of. CrossBarn is produced using declassified barrels from the same great vineyards selected for Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon. Fermented using indigenous yeasts, it is aged 20 months in French and American oak barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered. 750 1 0 34.00 1 28 2 jpg 25 2849 25 Peirson Meyer, Napa Valley 2014 180.00 446 0 It was a spring evening in 2001, when Lesley Warner-Peirson, her husband Alan Peirson, Robbie and Shannon Meyer were enjoying a bottle of wine together when their discussion turned to the future. They had all met at the Peter Michael Winery Estate, where Robbie was the Assistant Winemaker, and Alan and Lesleywere the Winery Estate Managers. In classic fashion, they came up with the name and logo for their brand, sketching it out on a cocktail napkin. That evening began their adventure together. In the Fall of 2001 they produced their first vintage, 300 cases of L'Angevin Russian River Valley Chardonnay. In 2005 they created a companion to our original brand L'Angevin. The Peirson Meyer label is named after the two founding families of L'Angevin. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 2935 25 Perry Moore, "Dr. Crane Vineyard," Napa Valley 2008 260.00 383 0 Winemaker Kian Tavakoli earned his Viticulture degree from U.C. Davis in Northern California as well as a degree in genetics. Kian’s winemaking experience includes 4 years at Opus One perfecting his cabernet winemaking and 9 years at Clos Du Val where he headed up their highly-acclaimed reserve bottling. His education, experience, personality, and particularly his passion for creating and producing great California Cabs, makes him the ideal winemaker for making award winning PerryMoore and Thomas William wines. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 1992 25 Peter Michael, "Les Pavots," Knights Valley 2016 399.00 482 0 In 1982 Sir Peter Michael established the Peter Michael winery on a square mile of rocky volcanic ridges that form the western face of Mount St. Helena in Sonoma County. From the beginning, the wine growing philosophy was modeled on the French tradition infused with a few modern influences: One, the vineyard terroir would be the single most important feature. Two, the wines would be elegant rather than overstated. Three, there would be a hundred-year commitment to the development of a great estate. Spanning 64 acres, Les Pavots ascends to an elevation of 1,400 feet on the west side of Mount St. Helena. Merlot and Cabernet Franc grow on the cool upper slopes and Cabernet Sauvignon grows just below. Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc are grown alongside our Les Pavots Bordeaux red varietals at about 1,400 feet. The subsoil is rocky, volcanic Rhyolite covered by a silt alluvium. The name means “The Poppies,” after the California poppies that grow wild on the estate and are the inspiration for the winery’s logo. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 3 3607 25 Piña "Cahoots," Napa Valley 2014 120.00 533 0 The 2015 Cahoots Cabernet Sauvignon reveals attractive aromas of red currant, blackberry, raspberry and plum. Hints of wild flowers, graphite, crushed rock and roasted herbs are interwoven into the elegant nose. This medium-bodied wine is approachable and offers freshness with bright acidity. The savory palate exhibits soft tannins and is followed by a long finish. 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 3541 25 Pine Ridge, Stags Leap - Napa 2013 199.00 801 0 The Stags Leap District’s moderate temperature, influenced by the San Pablo Bay, leads to slow, even fruit development throughout the growing season. The majority of our 47 acres across four estate vineyards in this region are densely planted with Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals on steeply-terraced hillsides with Bale clay-loam soils, producing very low yields of intensely flavored grapes. Powerful and complex, this deep garnet wine offers alluring aromas of ripe black cherry, red raspberry and rich dark plum that mingle with layers of cocoa powder, cassis and black licorice. The entry is lush and silky, filling the mouth with bright flavors of strawberry preserves and red currant that lead into touches of creamy vanilla toast, dried sage leaf and maple-brown sugar on the impeccably structured finish, supported by smooth, velvety tannins. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 14 3157 25 Plumpjack, Oakville - Napa 2012 160.00 552 0 PlumpJack Winery sits squarely in the heart of Napa Valley’s renowned Oakville region, surrounded by a 42-acre estate vineyard highly regarded for the quality of its Cabernet Sauvignon. Gavin Newsom and Gordon Getty established PlumpJack Winery in 1995, inspired by one of Shakespeare’s most memorable characters, Sir John “PlumpJack” Falstaff. PlumpJack’s down-to-earth, fun-loving, irreverent nature is rivaled only by his fierce loyalty to Prince Hal (Henry V), with whom he shares more than a few goblets of sack (wine) at the local tavern. “If sack and sugar be a fault,” intones PlumpJack, “God help the wicked.” The fruit on the nose is intense and lively with aromas of black cherry and raspberry followed by iron, crushed granite, and sage, all laced with mocha and vanilla. This wine has a rich and concentrated palate with great structure and an enduring finish 375 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 375 ml 3605 25 Powers, Columbia Valley 2017 40.00 419 0 Powers Winery, was founded by Bill Powers. Bill was drawn from his boyhood in​ Oklahoma to the region’s spectacular farm country in the 1950’s, and after years of farming multiple crops, he planted our estate, Badger Mountain Vineyard, in 1982. Powers wines are crafted by long-time winemaker Jose Mendoza to showcase Washington State’s diverse microclimates and distinctive vineyards. Deeply rooted in long term relationships with premium Columbia Valley growers, Powers Winery sources a variety of the highest quality fruit to consistently produce compelling wines of uncommon depth and complexity. Dark rich layered aromatics of black cherry, currant, and blueberries are intertwined alongside hints of spice and vanilla on the nose. This wine opens upnicely on the palate with very distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon flavors. Rich flavors of dried cherries, blueberries alongside plum and a touch of wet slate and white pepper, this wine has a niceround mouthfeel that is very balanced on the palate. The finish is medium in length with fine but sturdy integrated tannins and a nice backbone of acidity. 750 1 0 10.00 1 33 2 jpg 47 3326 25 Purlieu, Napa Valley 2015 225.00 479 0 Julien Fayard has lived in the Napa Valley since 2006, when he and his wife agreed to settle down by “meeting halfway” — between his home in France… and hers in Sonoma. In France, Julien worked in both Provence and Bordeaux, where he defined his core winemaking style at the exalted first growth Château Lafite-Rothschild (he even lived in Lafite’s grand château for a period) as well as at Smith Haut Lafitte. Here in Napa, Julien worked at Quintessa before joining Atelier Melka, where he spent five years as the Director of Winemaking. It was here, working with a variety of clients including Lail Vineyards, Gemstone, Dalla Valle, and more that Julien further developed his winemaking style — while also gaining an intimate understanding of the valley’s vineyards and establishing strong relationships with its many passionate, quality-dedicated growers. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3158 25 Quilceda Creek, Columbia Valley 2012 425.00 713 0 Quilceda Creek is dedicated exclusively to the production of world-class Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon. Founded in 1979, Quilceda Creek has had an unbroken string of highly-rated vintages that has led Robert Parker Jr. to name it Washington State's premier Cabernet Sauvignon producer. Wine Enthusiast Review "Quilceda Creek 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley). All Cabernet from Champoux, Klipsun, Palengat and Wallula vineyards, this wine offers aromas of blackberry, incense, blueberry, pencil lead and barrel spices. On the palate, it's tightly wound with black fruit flavors and a firm backbone of tannins. The oak is primary right now. It needs extended time in the cellar to show itself fully, and will be best from 2022–2030." Score: 95 Pts. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 1 3259 25 Quintessa, Rutherford - Napa 2013 190.00 556 0 Quintessa is comprised of a total of 280 acres of which 170 acres are planted to the classic Bordeaux grape varieties in 26 vineyard blocks as follows: Cabernet Sauvignon (129 acres), Merlot (26 acres), Cabernet Franc (7 acres), Petit Verdot (4 acres), and Carmenere (4 acres). The estate includes a valley, a lake, a river; five hills, four microclimates, and many soil types, as well as rich flora and fauna. The diversity of exposure, elevation, and microclimate and soil type produces 40 very different wines lots from the 26 different vineyard blocks. The diversity of the property (Valleys, Terraces, Hilltops, Foothills and Riverside) contributes to the high quality and uniqueness of the fruit. "The 2013 Quintessa is a deep and thoughtful wine from an exceptional vintage. Dark and rich in color with aromas of bright cherry, blackberry and blueberry with cedar spice and notes of fresh herbs and spring flowers, this wine expresses harmony between fruit and earth. With supple tannin in balance with black fruit flavors and lively acidity, the 2013 Quintessa is truly a wine of depth and richness, balance and purity." 375 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 375 ml 3612 25 Quintessa, Rutherford - Napa 2016 350.00 632 0 Quintessa is comprised of a total of 280 acres of which 170 acres are planted to the classic Bordeaux grape varieties in 26 vineyard blocks as follows: Cabernet Sauvignon (129 acres), Merlot (26 acres), Cabernet Franc (7 acres), Petit Verdot (4 acres), and Carmenere (4 acres). The estate includes a valley, a lake, a river; five hills, four microclimates, and many soil types, as well as rich flora and fauna. The diversity of exposure, elevation, and microclimate and soil type produces 40 very different wines lots from the 26 different vineyard blocks. The diversity of the property (Valleys, Terraces, Hilltops, Foothills and Riverside) contributes to the high quality and uniqueness of the fruit. The 2016 Quintessa is a generous wine, with complex and elegant layers than envelop you from the first sip. Welcoming with aromas of cassis, blackberry, red currant and undertones of sage, thyme, crushed rocks and rose petals, the 2016 Quintessa continues to expand in the glass as notes of exotic citrus, clove and fresh tobacco mingle with bright fruit. Full and rich, the wine is held together with fine-grained tannins that interweave beautifully with flavors of dark chocolate, crushed rocks, black cherry and blueberries. The wine is distinct for its energy and depth of flavor, and will leave a lasting impression with its velvety texture and intoxicating perfume. 750 0 0 1 28 2 6 3461 25 Robert Mondavi, "The Reserve," To-Kalon Vineyard, Oakville - Napa 2015 299.00 529 0 A testament to Napa's grand cru vineyard site, To Kalon's signature dark-fruited, dried herb complexity is seamlessly integrated with sweet oak spices of vanilla bean and toasted almonds, sending a wave of deliciously intense flavors across the richly dense palate in a tasty expression of power and elegance. Vineyard Notes This is the fifth vintage of To Kalon Vineyard-designated Reserve. When Robert Mondavi chose the To Kalon Vineyard in west Oakville as the home for his new winery in 1966 he remarked that, "It was a vineyard with a distinguished history and a magical nature. Ideal soils, sunlight, and rain to my eye, the vineyard was a treasure." Those sentiments were re-confirmed when the To Kalon Vineyard was named the Vineyard of the Year by the California State Farm Bureau in 2011. The Reserve is blended from the finest blocks within To Kalon. "A different beast, yet in the same ballpark qualitatively, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon just jumps out of the glass with a huge nose of sage brush, chocolate, violets, tobacco, and assorted sweet black and blue fruits. Showing the more exuberant, sexy style of the vintage, it's full-bodied and concentrated, yet has terrific tannins as well as length. It's a beautiful wine from this estate that will drink well for 3 decades or more. 98 Points" Jeb Dunnuck 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3342 25 Shafer, "Hillside Select," Napa Valley-Stags Leap District 2013 550.00 546 0 Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet grapes in 1978 and began construction on their winery a year later. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 2437 25 Shafer, "One Point Five," Stags Leap - Napa Valley 2016 90.00 550 0 Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet grapes in 1978 and began construction on their winery a year later. 375 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 375 ml 3534 25 Shafer, "One Point Five," Stags Leap - Napa Valley 2012 250.00 909 0 Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet grapes in 1978 and began construction on their winery a year later 750 0 0 1 28 2 7 2436 25 Shafer, "One Point Five," Stags Leap - Napa Valley 2016 200.00 498 0 Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet grapes in 1978 and began construction on their winery a year later. Parker - 93. Coravin protected 6 ounce glass - $50. 750 1 0 50.00 1 28 2 jpg 17 1979 25 Silver Oak, Napa 2014 299.00 518 0 Entrepreneur Raymond Twomey Duncan first visited the Napa Valley in the late 1960s. Taken by the area’s rugged beauty – and the potential of its fledgling wine industry – he soon began purchasing orchards, pastures and vineyards throughout the Napa and Alexander Valleys. Looking for an insider to advise him, Ray approached Justin Meyer in 1972, asking him to plant and manage his vineyards. Then a winemaker for the Christian Brothers, Justin agreed under one condition: In addition to growing grapes, he wanted to create a winery that would forever raise the standards of California wine. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 1904 25 Silver Oak, Alexander Valley 2014 175.00 496 0 Entrepreneur Raymond Twomey Duncan first visited the Napa Valley in the late 1960s. Taken by the area’s rugged beauty – and the potential of its fledgling wine industry – he soon began purchasing orchards, pastures and vineyards throughout the Napa and Alexander Valleys. Looking for an insider to advise him, Ray approached Justin Meyer in 1972, asking him to plant and manage his vineyards. Then a winemaker for the Christian Brothers, Justin agreed under one condition: In addition to growing grapes, he wanted to create a winery that would forever raise the standards of California wine. Silver Oak Cellars was born. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 18 3296 25 Snowden, "The Ranch," Napa Valley 2015 110.00 484 0 The Snowden ranch lies on the eastern slopes of the Napa Valley overlooking the towns of Rutherford and St. Helena. Premium wine grapes have been farmed on the property since it was homesteaded in 1878. The Snowdens came to the ranch in 1955 and since then four generations of our family have walked its sunlit vineyards and shadowed woods. All of their wines are produced exclusively from fruit grown on the property. The vineyards are within a few hundred yards of the Rutherford and St. Helena appellations. The Howell Mountain appellation lies a few miles to the north. Their terroir-driven wines reflect the confluence of these appellations – the perfume of St. Helena, the leather of Rutherford, the structure and depth of mountain fruit. “The Ranch” is an approachable, richly perfumed, terroir-driven Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Produced entirely from estate fruit, the 2014 shows distinct Cabernet Sauvignon character, knitted with suppleness from the Merlot, structure and elegance from the Cabernet Franc, and aromatics, spice, color, and finesse from the always-influential Petit Verdot. A bit shyer than years past, the 2014 Ranch has a bouquet of pencil lead and steel, red fruit, marzipan, blackberries and cracked black pepper. Red fruit and anise persist on the palate with vigorous tannins and bright acidity. 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot 1891 cases made. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 11 3243 25 Spottswoode, "Estate," St. Helena - Napa Valley 2012 325.00 910 0 Spottswoode is a family-owned historic vineyard and winery renowned for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Established in 1882 by George Schonewald, the estate is distinguished by the pre-prohibition Victorian home depicted on the wine label. Spottswoode was christened by Mrs. Albert Spotts in 1910 and it was acquired by Mary and Jack Novak in 1972. Mary released Spottswoode’s first Cabernet Sauvignon in 1982, exactly one hundred years after the estate’s founding. Situated on the western edge of St. Helena at the foot of the Mayacamas mountains, the Spottswoode terroir is ideal for growing fine wine grapes. The alluvial clay loam from the Sulphur Creek fan provides superb drainage while cool maritime breezes passing through the gap between Spring Mountain and the Mayacamas range, allow berries to ripen slowly. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 3311 25 St. Supéry, "Élu," Red Wine, Napa Valley 2014 140.00 577 0 St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery is a 100% Estate Grown, sustainably farmed winery committed to producing the highest quality estate wines without compromise. Élu, meaning “chosen” or “elected” in French evolved from St. Supéry Winemaker, Michael Scholz and renowned Winemaker, Michel Rolland’s desire to craft a red wine blend each year that is a seamless and elegant reflection of our two properties. This is a wine of great density, yet a sense of charm. This elegant red blend is structured with length and a graceful, fine grain of tannin. Vibrant and deep reds and purples introduce Élu, with aromas of black plum and juicy blackberry. The fragrances of anise, graphite, dark cocoa, espresso and toasted barrel add extra depth and richness. Flavors of black plum and youthful blackberry are complemented with a hint of cassis, together with notes of espresso, black pepper and black licorice. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 1 2613 25 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, "Artemis," Napa Valley 2017 125.00 525 0 Artemis, named after the Greek goddess of the hunt, is a wine that truly reflects its name. It’s the culmination of winemaker Nicki Pruss’ search for superior-quality Napa Valley grapes which, when combined with estate-grown fruit, meld into a Cabernet Sauvignon that mirrors the depth, structure and elegance ofStag's Leap's limited-production estate wines. Whereas the Estate Cabernet Sauvignons showcase the distinctive characteristics of each vineyard, Artemis demonstrates how astute grape selection and skillful blending can create a wine that represents the sum of Napa Valley’s best Cabernet Sauvignon parts. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 15 1891 25 Trefethen, Oak Knoll - Napa Valley 2016 80.00 469 0 Eugene and Katie Trefethen came to Napa Valley in 1968, where they purchased the dilapidated Eshcol property, complete with a collapsing “ghost winery," and several surrounding farms, and quickly began replanting everything to wine grapes. At that time there were less than 20 operational wineries in Napa. In 1979, Trefethen Chardonnay earned the title of “Best Chardonnay in the World” at the Gault-Millau Wine Olympics in Paris. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 21 3340 25 Turley, "Estate," Napa Valley 2016 140.00 613 0 Certified organic, Napa Valley single vineyard, pure Cabernet Sauvignon--not something that can be said by many! Planted in 1989 on the volcanic and alluvial soils found in northern Napa Valley, this vineyard forms the eastern border of the Turley estate and is framed on two sides by ancient, majestic oak trees. This wine has ripe, classic Napa Cabernet fruit, rounded out by the savory herbs and garrigue that are the marks of our Estate vineyards. Medium-bodied, with great structure and a smooth, texture and long, graceful finish. Immensely enjoyable in its youth, though the wine can easily age for 5 to 10 years as well. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 22 2302 25 Vérité "Le Désir," Sonoma 2006 325.00 636 0 French for "truth," the wines of Vérité result from a confluence of old world experience and new world fruit. Each is an amalgam of distinct components harvested from small vineyard blocks (micro-crus), resulting in a carefully considered convergence of grape varieties, climate, soil exposition and winemaking technique. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 2 3561 25 Vine Hill Ranch, Napa Valley 2016 525.00 906 0 VHR Cabernet is an estate-grown wine of place, the culmination of the Phillips family’s evolution from grapegrowing to winemaking over three generations. Years of traversing vineyard rows and caring for each of Vine Hill Ranch’s seven blocks have imbued a deep understanding of the estate vineyard’s unique characteristics. Bob and Alex Phillips began cultivating fine winegrapes here in 1959 and, with the founding of Phillips Family Farming, Vine Hill Ranch continues to produce exceptional fruit for a collection of premier Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon vintners 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3313 25 Von Strasser, Diamond Mountain District 2015 99.00 486 0 Rudy von Strasser’s entrance into winemaking came in a serendipitous way. He had just graduated with an agricultural degree from the University of New Hampshire (1980), with a goal of sparking a modern hard-cider industry in New England. Rudy thought that he could learn the necessary skills by working for a year in the California wine industry. After a year spent at Robert Mondavi Winery, the wine bug had been firmly planted and Rudy took the obvious next step: he enrolled at the famed Enology program at U.C. Davis, and graduated in 1985 as a trained winemaker. Rudy’s passionate interest in Cabernet Sauvignon lead him to discover a family connection to Eric de Rothschild, and he wrote a letter asking to do an internship at Chateau Lafite-Rothschild. Each year the Chateau had been hiring an intern from the French winemaking program at Montpellier. Thinking that two minds are better than one, Mr. Rothschild invited Rudy to work for the 1985 harvest as their first American intern. Upon completion, Rudy returned to Napa Valley in the spring of 1986 and became the enologist at Trefethen Winery and Vineyards. In 1988, he became the assistant winemaker in charge of production at Newton Vineyards in St. Helena. “DMD” is an elegant expression of Diamond Mountain District. This blend of six single vineyards all within this AVA offers a softer, approachable style highlighted by its fruit forward nature. Immediate nose is pleasing with dark fruit of blueberry, blackberry and leather layered with flavors of licorice, coffee, pomegranate and subtle earthy undertones. Wrap it up with supple tannins to enjoy now or up to 10 years. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 17 3284 25 Whitehall Lane "Leonardini Estate," Napa Valley 2012 175.00 415 0 The Leonardini Vineyard was first planted to grapes in the late 1800’s when the Lewelling Family settled on a large tract of land on the southern outskirts of St. Helena. The old-time farmers of the area have said that the soil, Cortina Gravely Loam, in this particular area is renowned for “black” wine grapes. In 1940, the Lewelling Family sold part of their tract to Fred Boraldo that included what are now the Leonardini Vineyard and the Harvest Inn.Boraldo sold the property to Richard Geyer in 1973 and in 1979 Geyer built the Harvest Inn on the lot that fronts the main highway (Highway 29). Wild mustard and various grasses grew in the 14-acre vineyard site behind the Harvest Inn until 1989 when the vineyard was finally replanted under the direction of Whitehall Lane Winery. In 1993, the Leonardini Family of Whitehall Lane Winery bought the vineyard. Two separate wells were sunk and irrigation added to feed the vines during the growing season. The vineyard was recently replanted to Cabernet Sauvignon in 2014 and 2016. The Wine Spectator selected the Leonardini Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon as the finest representation for the St. Helena appellation. This is what a St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon should taste like. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 3527 25 Woodward Canyon, "Artist Series," Washinigton State 2015 140.00 600 0 This “Artist Series” Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from grapes selected from some of the finest and most highly regarded vineyards in Washington State and the Walla Walla Valley. Each produces fantastic wine in their own right; when blended they produce extraordinary wine. This enticing and deeply colored red wine shows a complex nose of baking spice, black olive and graham integrated beautifully with aromas of ripe black fruits. In the mouth the wine is rich and elegant, showing subtle notes of herb and black berry. Integrated tannins enhance the texture and give proportion; the finish is complex, generous, and long. While this wine can be enjoyed now it will benefit greatly from additional cellaring and, with proper storage, should develop for ten years or more. 750 0 0 1 33 2 jpg 4 3345 25 ZD, Napa Valley 2016 95.00 637 0 ZD Special Library Release Cabernet Napa, CA What a juicy core of dark fruit lies at the heart of this powerful but inviting Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. On the nose, blackberry, cassis, and spicy dark plum dominate, leading to rich fruit flavors mixed with vanilla, clove and mocha. The tannins are the very definition of silky. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 13 2929 27 Arcanum, "Il Fauno," Toscana I.G.T. 2015 55.00 740 0 The Arcanum estate is found within the commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the province of Siena, Tuscany. Bordered by the ancient walled town of San Gusmé, it lies in the southeast corner of the Chianti Classico region Il Fauno di Arcanum is a Bordeaux-style blend that embodies the diversity of the estate. Located in the lower southwest section of the estate, in a warmer, exposed subsection that ripens early, the soils possess a significant amount of clay, with good water retention, and produce wines that tend to be more voluptuous and lush. 57% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 4 3304 27 Arcanum, "Valadorna," Toscana 2011 144.00 822 0 The Jackson family purchased the Tenuta di Arceno estate in 1994, with its sprawling 2,500 acres, of which only 223 are planted to vine. This Merlot-led blend is sourced primarily from the Valadorna and Capraia blocks, which produce the estate’s most complex and mineral-based expressions of this variety. The blocks are located within the cooler part of the estate, naturally irrigated by the stream that undulates through it, and feature sandy brown soils and lower yields than typical. These blocks are often the last Merlot blocks to ripen on the estate. 60% Merlot 25% Cabernet Sauvignon 15% Cabernet Franc 750 1 0 36.00 8 9 2 jpg 8 3591 27 Avignonesi "Desiderio" Merlot, Toscana I.G.T. 2015 120.00 267 1 Desiderio was a bull which lived on Avignonesi’s Capezzine farm more than one hundred years ago. The largest bull in Tuscany at that time, this majestic animal helped define the Chianina cattle race, specific to the Bistecca Fiorentina. It came as a natural choice to dedicate this Merlot to the beloved bull as a testimony to the wines’ origin. This is Merlot from Tuscany at its best. Intense, deep red in colour, the main trait of Desiderio 2015 is the harmony between the sweet fruity notes, typical to Merlot, and the power, testament of the 2015 vintage. The bouquet is deeply endowed with black currant, myrtle, eucalyptus and black cherries. Very savoury, with hints of incense, the wine has velvety tannins and impressive persistence. Son of a warm vintage, vinified with great finesse. 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 6 3560 27 Lussac Saint-Emilion, Château du Moulin Noir 2015 65.00 443 0 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 7 1093 27 Clos du Bois, Alexander Valley, "Reserve," 2014 55.00 583 0 Although Clos du Bois is well known for their entry level wines, they also make smaller production, high quality wines. This merlot is one of their Appellation Reserve Series. The fruit for this wine comes from the Alexander Valley in Sonoma. Full flavored and well balanced. Wine and Spirits - 92. WS - 86. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 2 2602 27 Chateau Ste. Michelle, "Cold Creek," Columbia Valley 2014 48.00 604 0 Planted in 1973, Cold Creek Vineyard remains one of the most exceptional vineyards in the Columbia Valley. The weak soil at Cold Creek – a silty loam - contributes significantly to the “old vine” intensity of the fruit. Grape vines grown in weak soils like Cold Creek tend to produce moderate crops and concentrated grapes. 750 1 0 12.00 1 33 2 jpg 28 991 27 Duckhorn, Napa 2016 130.00 587 0 Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent almost forty years establishing itself as one of North America’s premier producers of Napa Valley wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today. The quality of Duckhorn Vineyards' wines has always been based on a commitment to selecting the finest fruit. Whether carefully sourcing grapes from top sites in the Napa Valley or committing itself to estate vineyards, the winery was built on the belief that great wines begin in the vineyard. At Duckhorn Vineyards this has always meant an emphasis on site and terroir. Today, the winery's seven estate vineyards are located in alluvial fans of the Napa Valley as well as on the coveted slopes of Howell Mountain. Winemaker Renee Ary has numerous vineyard blocks to choose from, each offering markedly different flavor profiles. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 2660 27 Duckhorn, Napa Valley 2016 65.00 614 0 Founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976. This estate focuses on classic Bordeaux varietals from Napa Valley. Unusual for their focus on Merlot over Cabernet. 375 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 4 375 ml 3318 27 Gundlach Bundschu, Sonoma Valley 2014 98.00 698 0 Established in 1858, Gundlach Bundschu’s estate vineyard is located 35 miles north of San Francisco on the southwesterly slopes of the Mayacamas Mountain Range. It’s located at the southernmost point in Sonoma Valley, flanked by the Carneros district to the south, Napa Valley to the east and nestled within the larger Sonoma Coast American Viticultural Area. Rhinefarm has a unique combination of steep hillsides and cool valley floor sites, allowing us to grow a broad variety of wines at a very high-quality level. Rhinefarm’s terrain below 150-feet elevation is ideally suited for earlier-ripening, high-acid varieties. Cool air settles over the valley floor, where ancient bay waters deposited mineral-rich sediment and pockets of light stream gravel in the Huichica clay-loam soils. Above 150 feet, the terrain is dominated by Arrowhead Mountain, and the rocky, shallow soils consist of rhyolitic volcanic ash and alluvial wash. Steep hillside blocks are planted predominantly to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with small plantings of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Syrah and Zinfandel. Pervasive maritime breezes and long daylight exposure allow for slow, even ripening, resulting in deep color, intense flavor concentration and elegant balance in the wines. Huge flavors upfront reveal nuanced layers that will entice and please all who love great red wine. The lush nose leads with purple and blue fruits, elegant floral notes and dark spice. A well-balanced blend of young tannins and lively acidity ensconce flavors of plum, black cherries and raspberries, fresh herbs, and chocolate that resonate through the everlingering finish. 750 0 0 1 29 2 jpg 2 3470 27 Hourglass, "Blueline Estate" 2016 175.00 369 0 The 2016 Blueline Estate Merlot follows the defining thread of the vintage—supreme balance. The signature aromatics of mandarin orange peel and Asian 5 spice, are interlaced with a mineral graphite and a band of high tone rose petal. As Tony notes, “The 2016 is a hybrid of the ’12 and ’13 vintages. The bright aromatics and red fruits of ’12, and the darker fruit and structural elements of ’13.” The texture has a firm spine with a tight structural core, surrounded with a layer of silky fruit. Crème de cassis intermingles with dark sour cherry and an intriguing note of Asian hoisin. Deep and rich, yet alive with energy. A very complex layering of delicious fruit, wired with bright natural acidity and vibrant minerality. The finish is long and expansive. Amazingly approachable now, but it has the tannin and structural stuffing to age gracefully for a decade, or more. 83% Merlot, 10% Cabernet, 7% Malbec 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 6 2156 27 Northstar, Columbia Valley 2013 52.00 589 0 NORTHSTAR MERLOT 2006 Since the mid-1990s, this Merlot specialist has offered remarkably consistent, dense, sweet wines characterized by varietally accurate notes of dark berries, bitter chocolate and spices. Vineyards are scattered across the Columbia Valley AVA: more than 15 distinct vineyard blocks in play here. Winemaker David Merfeld started out as an assistant here in 2001, before rising to the head role in 2005. Still, a little help comes from consulting winemaker Jed Steele, a California legend. The 2006 Merlot Columbia Valley is composed of 76% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It was aged in French and American oak, 65% new, for 18 months. The fruit was sourced from 14 different vineyards making the wine a testament to the art of blending. Dark crimson-colored, it displays an alluring bouquet of cigar box, sage, clove, cinnamon, black cherry, and a hint of chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, round and elegant on the palate, it has solid depth and enough ripe tannin to support 2-3 years of additional cellaring. Drink this intensely flavored effort from 2011 to 2021. " 91 Points 750 0 0 0.00 1 33 2 jpg 3 3418 27 Pomerol, Clos Saint-André 2014 199.00 765 0 One of the smallest estates in Pomerol at just under a hectare in size, Clos Saint-Andre is truly a one-man show, run by Jean-Claude Desmarty. The first vines were planted in 1923 by Jean-Claude’s great-grandmother, Alice Desmarty, as part of a polycultural approach that included several vegetable plantings and she sold her wines to local merchants. The next two generations allowed outside vignerons to tend the vines and make their own wines; thus, Jean-Claude is the first in his family to produce estate-bottled Pomerol under the Clos Saint-Andre name. The first wine to be bottled was the 2004 vintage. Jean-Claude treats the tiny vineyard like a garden and refers to himself as a gardener rather than a viticulteur, as he works each vine by hand, with no mechanical aides. Many of the original vines, planted in 1923, are still alive and healthy, though the average age is now (as of 2011) just above 60 years. The low yields of well-aged vines allow him a mere 35 hectoliters per hectare, below the typical Pomerol levels of 49hl/ha. A typical Pomerol encepagement of majority Merlot (approximately 80%) with the rest a combination of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon is planted in the clay-rich soils, with all of the harvested fruit going into the wine each vintage. The concept of an assemblage, where a blend representing the estate is selected and produced, has no place at a small domaine where each healthy grape is necessary. When the grapes ripen, Jean-Claude calls together a small group of family and friends and completes his harvest in about five hours, with all fruit carried into the chai in bags loaded on people’s backs. Next, the group works to sort the fruit before adding them to the stainless-steel tanks where fermentation will take place. No tractors or pumps are involved, every action is by hand, allowing for the highest possible standards when selecting the grapes that will make up each year’s wine. 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 4 3469 27 Chateau Beauregard, Pomerol 2012 125.00 403 0 Beauregard’s history dates back to the 11th century and the Order of the Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, from which Beauregard’s emblematic Knights Templar cross originates. The knights were active in the Pomerol region, owned a small manor, and already farmed these lands. It was on this site, five centuries later, that the Beauregard family built the first house, which was replaced during the Napoleonic era by the present château -a magnificent Gironde chartreuse, created by a pupil of Victor Louis, the architect of Bordeaux’s Grand Théâtre. In 2014, the Moulin and Cathiard families purchased Château Beauregard and set about making sweeping changes. They also acquired the historical wine estates of Château Pavillon Beauregard in Lalande de Pomerol, Château Bastor Lamontagne in Sauternes and Château Saint Robert in the Graves. Pomerol, Saint-Emilion’s neighbour, is located to the north-east of Libourne and is the smallest of Bordeaux’s prestigious appellations, covering just 800 hectares (1,976 acres) of vineyard. Its outstanding terroir is largely made up of clay-gravel soils in which the Merlot, the king grape variety of the region, finds its full expression alongside the Cabernet Franc, which is planted on the deepest gravel soils. Beauregard is situated at the entrance to the appellation and covers an area of 17.5 hectares (43 acres), making it one of the largest Pomerol estates. Its grape composition is 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. In 2016, 4% of Cabernet Sauvignon was added to the vineyard, and these grapes will enter into the blend within a few years. The vines have reached an average grand old age of 35 years, while every new plantation is planted at the very high density of 9,200 vines per hectare. 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 2 3482 27 Pride Mountain Vineyard, Napa Valley 2016 80.00 372 0 375 0 0 1 28 2 2 375 ml 3525 27 Robert Foley, Napa Valley 2014 140.00 508 0 This is a Merlot for Cabernet lovers. All Merlot, but more wine than a lot of Cabernets! Aromas reminiscent of red currant and cassis couple with an insinuation of chocolate. The mid-palate is rich with sweet fruit flavors that resolve in a gently gripping finish. This wine's strong structure and spice is from the winery's own Howell Mountain fruit, while its round femininity comes from Calistoga to create a perfect textural balance. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 1 2987 27 Robert Sinskey, "POV," Napa Valley 2014 75.00 738 0 Robert Sinskey began his winemaking career after a brief stint in advertising. His father called for help with his fledgling wine growing business. He says that a week had passed before he discovered that winemaking had become his obsession. His philosophy is that “wine is not an athletic event.” The goal is to make “pure wines of character that pair well with cuisine.” The 2009 vintage of POV has elegant aromas and flavors of dark plum and cherry fruit backed by complex savory notes of olives, dried herbs and hints of earthy leaves of tobacco or tea. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 2 2974 27 Rocher Corbin, Montagne St. Émilion 2014 80.00 445 0 For the past ten years Philippe Durand has been making impressive investments and improvements at Château Rocher Corbin. Just northwest of the town of Montagne, the Château is perfectly situated on the western slope of the Calon mound at the highest point in the area of Montagne Saint-Emilion. The average age of the vines on the 10.5 hectares (25.95 acres) is 45 years. 15% of the vineyard has vines more than 80 years of age and there is one plot with impressive 140 year old vines. The typical blend of Château Rocher Corbin is 90% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc. Château Rocher Corbin provides deep-colored and concentrated Montagne Saint-Emilion wines. The wine is well structured, full-bodied and viscous on the tongue, with a fleshy, fruity palate, rich aromas and fabulous aging potential for each vintage. . 750 0 0 5 2 2 jpg 4 3448 27 "Olpaio," Rubbia al Colle, Suvereto DOCG 2014 60.00 606 0 Almost 7 miles due east of the Mediterranean Ocean and 57 miles southwest of Florence, Rubbia al Colle is nearly in the heart of the vast Maremma region. Here, grapes grow on two tracts. Podere Le Pulledre skirts a fertile valley floor where vines flourish in clay soil with deep sand layers, warm climate and significant diurnal temperature swings. Podere La Rubbia is located on a hillside with a warm and windy climate. Soils are clay and calcareous with stony sediment. The two vineyards are very diferent and exemplify the micro-regions that give Maremma its rich agricultural heritage. The winery of Rubbia al Colle is located in the ancient property Le Pulledre. The Muratori family built the winery in the hearth of a hill, where now the red wines of Rubbia al Colle mature. The winery is predominately underground, made of local materials, in sympathy to the original structure of the estate. Mediterranean maquis grows on the roof of the winery and water, sun and rocks are primary elements of the winery, while clay is its foundation layer. Olpaio relies heavily on Merlot as its workhorse grape. The result is a wine with grippy, persistent red fruit. Aromatically, anticipate leather and balsamic laced among sweet floral notes. Olpaio drinks with decadent smoothness yet exerts lingering character. The wine’s namesake, “olpe,” is a clay wine vessel from Italy’s Etruscan period. 80% Merlot, 20% Sangiovese 750 0 0 8 9 2 jpg 3 3518 27 Shafer "TD9," Napa Valley 2016 140.00 384 0 TD-9 is a proprietary blend that celebrates a bold move. In 1973, in the space of a few months, John Shafer went from riding morning commuter trains in Chicago to teaching himself to drive a TD-9 tractor in our Napa Valley vineyard. He’d never grown grapes or made wine in his life. That spirit of risk-taking and adventure still guides Shafer today and inspired the creation of this new wine. 58% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Malbec 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 5 3620 27 Silverado, "Mt. George," Coombsville, Napa Valley 2016 80.00 532 1 Located east of Napa, Mt. George Vineyard is the site of one of the first grape plantings in the valley in the 19th century. The deep, gravelly soils are derived from volcanic rock and ash, providing depth and structure to Silverado’s wines. These Merlot vines are rooted in the foothills of an ancient volcano, Mt. George. These rocky slopes are in a climate sweet spot: close enough to the cool San Pablo Bay to give the wine aromas of rosemary and mint, warm enough to bring out flavors of blackberry and spice. The wine is finished in oak to add a hint of cocoa and a velvety texture. Aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, star anise and clove with a hint of toasty oak expresses itself as baked flakey pie crust. Full bodied with a broad structured mid-palate and concentrated cassis flavors leading to a long finish that entices you to pour another glass. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 11 1209 27 Twomey, Napa 2014 150.00 588 0 The Twomey story begins with a remarkable vineyard, Soda Canyon Ranch, in southeastern Napa Valley. The ranch was purchased for Silver Oak's Cabernet Sauvignon, but it was soon discovered that the blocks planted to Merlot featured top-flight clones, worthy of a wine on their own. 750 0 0 1 28 2 jpg 3 2334 28 Achaval Ferrer, Mendoza 2016 70.00 598 0 This winery is a partnership between a group of Argentinian businessmen (Santiago Achával Becu and Manuel Ferrer Minetti among them), and Italians Roberto Cipresso and Tiziano Siviero, who are the proprietors of a winery in Tuscany's Montalcino region. Wine Spectator - 91. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 14 2743 28 Bodega Renacer, "Milamore," Malbec Blend 2015 65.00 719 0 An exciting, innovative wine produced from a blend of Malbec, Merlot, Bonarda and Cabernet Franc uniquely dried and vinified in the Amarone style. The grapes that produce Milamore are sourced from 50+ years old vines located in three distinct high-altitude vineyards from the Mendoza region in Argentina. The grapes are dried on the vines (appassimento), until they loose 1/3 of their weight. After a prolonged fermentation (both alcoholic and malolactic) the wine is aged in new French barriques for 12 months. Dark ruby red in color, Milamore offers supple aromas of ripe berries, raisin, and plums. Sensual notes of exotic spices, charcoal and chocolate are seamlessly layered with the fruit. Full bodied, rich and complex, with a long finish beautifully framed by fine-grained tannins. This is a very special wine that will surprise many wine lovers. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 6 3491 28 Bodega San Pedro de Yacochuya, Cafayate-Salta 2014 65.00 734 0 In 1988, Dany and Michel Rolland were asked to be consultants to one of the oldest families in the valley of Calchaquie. There they discovered Cafayate, a true paradise for viticulture in the north-west of Argentina, and they fell in love with the country, its culture, traditions and its people. For them it was a "coup de coeur", or "love at first sight"! The French wine consultants were convinced that unique, outstanding wines could be produced in this mountain region of the Andes foothills. This extremely beautiful region is situated several hundred kilometres to the south of the Tropic of Capricorn, at 6560 feet altitude and has a very distinctive climate with hot days and cool nights. Seduced by the remarkable potential of an old Malbec vine perched at an altitude of 6560 feet, Dany and Michel decided to put all their passion and savoir-faire to work with their Argentinean friends to produce the wine called Yacochuya. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 8 3292 28 Cahors, "Le Pur Fruit du Causse", Château Combel-la-Serre 2018 45.00 763 0 Julien Ilbert is a young, charismatic vigneron with a fresh perspective on his native Cahors. Vines have been in the Ilbert family for generations, though grapes had always been sold to the local cave coopérative. In 1998, Julien decided to break off and start his own estate. Things didn't exactly go according to plan, and a chance meeting with Mathieu Cosse at a rugby match quickly led to a seven year relationship, with Julien being Mathieu's main source for high quality Auxerrois (aka Malbec, aka Côt). After an amicable split in 2005, Julien was back on track to producing his own wines, and Château Combel-la-Serre was born. 25 hectares of Auxerrois are planted on a diverse amount of terroirs, all within 5 kilometers of the cellar. Though a Cahors wine only needs to be 70% Auxerrois to get the appellation, Julien believes it is the only grape suitable for what he's trying to accomplish. In such he has consciously avoided planting the traditional Negrette and Tannat, while completely eschewing the more recent trend of planting Bordeaux varietals. 750 0 0 5 35 2 jpg 3 1923 28 Colomé "Estate," Salta 2016 52.00 814 0 Wines of distinction have been crafted at Colomé, located in the upper Calchaquí Valley in the Salta region, since 1831. Sustainability is a key part of the farming practice for all of the estate vineyards that grow the world’s highest elevation Malbec. Four estate vineyards are blended in the Estate bottling to achieve the best expression of Malbec, Argentina’s best known grape variety. Bright and intense in color with beautiful aromas of blackberries, red fruits and exotic floral notes, this wine delivers aromatics that entice the senses. A full lush entry of ripe and rich black fruit surrounds spiced oak notes and hints of pepper. Fresh acidity supports big, bold tannins and wonderful complexity. 750 1 0 13.00 3 38 2 jpg 45 3199 28 Cuvelier Los Andes, " Colección," Mendoza 2014 45.00 883 0 Cuvelier Los Andes is owned by Bertrand and Jean-Guy Cuvelier, part-owners of renowned Bordeaux Chateau Leoville-Poyferre in Saint Julien. The consulting winemaker is Michel Rolland. At the beginning of the 20th century, Paul Cuvelier and his young brother Albert, anticipating the inevitable rise in "Chateau-bottled wines" to the detriment of the "tailor-made" blends of the wine merchants, decided to purchase top quality estates in the Bordeaux area. They bought Chateau Le Crock in 1903, then Chateau Camensac in 1912 and finally the prestigious Chateau Leoville Poyferre in 1920. In 1998 Bertrand Cuvelier made the happy choice of personally accompanying Michel Rolland in his great Argentine project, which was to become the Clos de los Siete group. Three years later, Jean-Guy Cuvelier decided to join his cousin Bertrand in the joint aim of building a winery and producing fine wines worthy of the family tradition. 57% Malbec, 20% Merlot, 11% Syrah, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 9 3569 28 Cuvelier Los Andes, "Grand Vin," Malbec, Vallee de Uco - Mendoza 2014 80.00 434 0 Grand Vin is the winery's “First Label,” the Argentinean cousin of Château Léoville-Poyferré, 2nd Grand Cru Classé from Saint-Julien, the family’s most renowned Estate in Bordeaux, France. Grand Vin is an exceptional Bordeaux-style blend, with an impressive tannic structure from our best Malbec, rounded, balanced and completed with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Petit Verdot. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 5 3011 28 Ernesto Catena, "Siesta en el Tahuantinsuyu," Mendoza 2014 70.00 631 0 Ernesto Catena, the owner of Ernesto Catena Vineyards in Argentina, is the eldest son of Nicolás Catena of Catena Zapata. A 4th generation winemaker, Ernesto has traveled and lived around the world. While president of Bodegas Escorihuela, Ernesto felt the need to produce wines that would reflect his basic beliefs: high quality, a different style from the majority of wines being made at the time, smaller volumes and a strong brand concept. In 2002, Ernesto Catena Vineyards was created to express those beliefs. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 7 2867 28 Tinto Negro, Valle de Uco 2017 45.00 868 0 TintoNegro was born of the long time friendship and professional collaboration of Alejandro Sejanovich and Jeff Mausbach, colleagues at Bodega Catena Zapata for almost 15 years. As Wine Education Director for Catena, Jeff travelled the world preaching the gospel of the unique character of high altitude Malbec from Mendoza, explaining the character and expression of its many different terroirs. As Vineyard Director at Catena, Alejandro had extensive, first hand experience growing Malbec in all of these terroirs, from the fruit driven, easy drinking style of Lujan de Cuyo to the concentrated, complex profile La Consulta. His intimate knowledge of the top vineyards in each region means TintoNegro wines are made from only the best fruit each area has to offer. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 5 3463 28 Trapiche, "Oak Cask," Mendoza 2017 40.00 305 0 Purple-colored, the nose offers up plum and black cherry notes with a touch of black pepper. The palate is soft and round with ripe, saturated berry flavors. Finishes spicy and full with chewy tannins. 750 0 0 3 38 2 jpg 101