1969 - Older Wine

Celebrate with the official Champagne of the FIFA World Cup in this limited-edition Taittinger Brut Réserve bottle. Elegant, festive, and unmistakably Taittinger, this special release brings together the prestige of one of Champagne’s great houses with a bold collector’s label created for the world’s biggest sporting celebration.

Taittinger Brut Réserve is a beautifully balanced Champagne crafted from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Fresh and refined, it offers lively notes of citrus, white peach, brioche, and delicate floral accents, with fine bubbles and a clean, elegant finish. Perfect for gifting, celebrations, Mother’s Day, graduation parties, weddings, and any moment worth raising a glass.

• Producer: Taittinger
• Appellation: Champagne, France
• Style: Brut Non-Vintage
• Blend: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
• Special Feature: FIFA World Cup Official Champagne — Limited Edition bottle
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, white peach, brioche, floral accents, fine bubbles
• Best For: Gifting, celebrations, collector’s piece, parties, weddings

Gosset · Grande Réserve Brut NV · Champagne AOC · France

Gosset is the oldest wine house in Champagne — established in Aÿ in 1584, when Pierre Gosset, alderman and winegrower, founded the house that bears his name. Nearly five centuries of Champagne-making later, Gosset remains one of the region’s most distinctive producers: a house defined by richness, Pinot Noir texture, extended cellaring, and an unwavering commitment to the Grande Réserve style. The NV Grande Réserve is the house’s signature Champagne — a blend of 45% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir, and 10% Meunier from premier villages including Aÿ, Bouzy, Ambonnay, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, aged a minimum of four years in the cellar before disgorgement, then rested a further six months to assimilate the dosage (8 g/L). Rated 94 points by Decanter and 93 by Wine Spectator.

Luminous golden hue with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose opens with fresh lemon meringue pie, yellow apple, Mirabelle plum, and white peach, deepening with warmth into honeyed, toasted notes. On the palate, a spine of chiseled acidity structures a vivid, creamy texture — Asian pear, baked pineapple, lemon curd, toasted brioche, and roasted almond, with a minerally underpinning of smoke, brine, and wet stone. Elegant, long, and absolutely fresh from first bubble to finish.

Expert Reviews

“Elegance, length and absolute freshness are inherent and quietly convincing. Beautifully subtle autolysis on the palate, deepening into notes of creamy apple crumble, Golden Delicious and Mirabelle plum.”
— Decanter · 94 Points

“A spine of chiseled acidity structures this vivid, creamy Champagne, which has a minerally underpinning of smoke and brine and flavors of Asian pear, baked pineapple, lemon curd, toasted brioche and roasted almond.”
— Wine Spectator · 93 Points

“Pure and inviting aromas of white peach, fresh flowers, and wet stone. A fresh pillowy mousse and a delicate saline finish — a wonderful calling card for the freshness of the house style.”
— Jeb Dunnuck · 92 Points

“Lemon tart, spiced apples, almonds and pastries. Fresh, lively and very precise, with fine bubbles and a light, chalky undertone.”
— James Suckling · 92 Points

• Producer: Gosset, Aÿ, Champagne, France (est. 1584 — oldest wine house in Champagne)
• Style: Brut NV Champagne
• Blend: 45% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir, 10% Meunier
• Base Vintage: 2018 | Cellaring: 4+ years minimum
• Dosage: 8 g/L
• Villages: Aÿ, Bouzy, Ambonnay, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Villers-Marmery
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon meringue, Mirabelle plum, Asian pear, brioche, roasted almond, smoke, brine, chiseled acidity
• Pairings: Grilled fish, lobster, oysters, scallops, soft cheeses, aperitif

D:94 · WS:93 · JD:92 · JS:92 · Champagne AOC — the oldest wine house in Champagne, since 1584. Rich, creamy, and built for the long haul.

Leclerc Briant Réserve Extra Brut — Épernay, Champagne, France NV

Leclerc Briant is one of Champagne's most celebrated and pioneering grower-producers — a historic house based in Épernay with roots going back to 1872, and today one of the region's most committed advocates for biodynamic viticulture. Under the stewardship of the Lignac family, Leclerc Briant farms its vineyards according to strict biodynamic principles — certified by Demeter — believing that the health of the soil is the foundation of great Champagne. The estate works with the lunar calendar, uses only natural preparations, and practices minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the terroir of their Marne Valley and Côte des Blancs vineyards to express itself with clarity and precision. The Réserve Extra Brut is the house's signature non-vintage cuvée — a blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier, and 20% Chardonnay, based on the 2019 harvest, with reserve wines adding depth and complexity. Extra Brut in style, it is drier and more precise than a standard Brut, allowing the terroir and the fruit to speak without the softening effect of dosage.

The color is bright pale yellow with a fine, lively mousse. The nose is complex and inviting: wet asphalt, ripe white peach, fresh redcurrant, pear, verbena, lime, herbs, and a touch of menthol — the signature of biodynamic Champagne. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and approachable with a rounded mid-palate, chalky and pithy texture, and sleek acidity animating flavors of chopped raspberry, nectarine, preserved lemon, and oyster shell. The finish is persistent, lightly spiced, and mouthwatering — clean, energetic, and long.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 — "Wet asphalt, ripe white peach, and fresh redcurrant. Rounded mid-palate, chalky and pithy texture with a lively yet fine mousse. Attractive and balanced with a clean finish."

Wine Spectator 92 — "Lithe and graceful, with sleek acidity animating flavors of chopped raspberry, nectarine, preserved lemon and oyster shell. Fine and satiny in texture, offering a persistent, lightly spiced finish."

Wine Advocate 90 — "Lively, fresh bouquet of pear, verbena, lime tree, herbs and menthol. Vinous and energetic with an incisive mid-palate and a mouthwatering, fresh finish."

• Producer: Leclerc Briant, Épernay, Champagne, France (est. 1872)
• Style: Extra Brut NV
• Blend: 40% Pinot Noir / 40% Pinot Meunier / 20% Chardonnay
• Base Vintage: 2019
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic (Demeter)
• Dosage: Extra Brut (very low dosage)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White peach, redcurrant, raspberry, nectarine, preserved lemon, oyster shell, wet asphalt, chalky texture, persistent spiced finish
• Style: Precise, energetic, terroir-driven
• Best Paired With: Oysters, sushi, grilled fish, lobster, soft cheeses, charcuterie, caviar

Biodynamic Champagne from one of Épernay's most celebrated grower-producers — Leclerc Briant Réserve Extra Brut is precise, energetic, and triple 90+ point rated.

Ruggeri Argeo | Prosecco Treviso Brut Rosé Millesimato | 2023 | 750ml | Valdobbiadene, Italy

Rated 93 Points – Wine Enthusiast

For five generations, the name Ruggeri has been synonymous with the finest Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Founded by Eliseo Bisol and his son Luigi — among the first modern winemakers in the region — Ruggeri stands today among the top wineries of Valdobbiadene, pioneering quality and vision since the 1950s. Now part of the Rotkäppchen-Mumm Group, Ruggeri continues to be recognized worldwide for its commitment to excellence.

• Winery: Ruggeri
• Origin: Valdobbiadene, Treviso, Italy
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Style: Brut Rosé Millesimato (Vintage)
• Varietal: Glera with Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Prosecco DOC Treviso

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Soft pink hue reminiscent of peach flowers with abundant foam and lively, fine perlage
• Nose: Glera aromatics enriched with red currants, raspberries, white flowers, and a balsamic note of fresh rosemary
• Palate: Succulent cherry, wild strawberry, pomegranate, and full-bodied structure from Pinot Noir
• Finish: Long, elegant, crisp, and harmonious — perfectly matching the aromas

Critical Acclaim

• 🏆 Wine Enthusiast – 93 Points: "With its soft pink hue and inviting berry-scented bouquet, this Prosecco rosé is a charmer. The palate is awash with succulent cherry, wild strawberry and a subtle hint of pomegranate. The finish is crisp and refreshing, making it an ideal aperitivo or a surprising addition to tacos or burgers."

Serving Suggestions: Ideal as an aperitivo; pairs beautifully with tacos, burgers, light appetizers, and fresh fruit desserts.

Villa Sandi | Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG | NV | 750ml | Asolo, Veneto, Italy

Rated 91 Points – The Tasting Panel

Crafted from carefully selected Glera grapes grown in the prestigious Asolo hillside appellation — Italy's highest-quality tier of Prosecco — Villa Sandi's Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG is mineral-driven, elegant, and endlessly food-friendly. The DOCG designation guarantees strict quality standards, hillside vineyard sourcing, and the refined character that sets Asolo apart from standard Prosecco DOC.

• Producer: Villa Sandi
• Origin: Asolo, Veneto, Italy
• Appellation: Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Grape Variety: Glera
• Style: Extra Dry / Brut Sparkling
• Vintage: NV (Non-Vintage)

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intense honeydew, ripe pear, honeysuckle, and banana
• Palate: Glossy and fleshy — poached pear, preserved lemon, sliced almond, and a touch of smoke with fine, persistent bubbles
• Finish: Clean and bright with lemon sorbet, peach, and a slight herbaceousness

Critical Acclaim

• 🏆 The Tasting Panel – 91 Points: "This one's got vivacity to spare. Intense scents of honeydew and ripe pear mingle with honeysuckle and banana before descending on a glossy, fleshy palate that finishes clean and bright with lemon sorbet, peach, and a slight herbaceousness."

Food Pairings

Perfect as an aperitif and equally at the table. Pairs beautifully with fresh oysters, grilled shrimp, light seafood pasta, fried appetizers, charcuterie, cream-sauced pastas, and risotto.

Philipponnat Champagne Reserve Perpetuelle Brut NV 750ml

Producer Notes

Philipponnat's Réserve Perpétuelle Brut NV represents a landmark rebranding of the house's flagship “Royale Réserve” — a name now updated to reflect the perpetual reserve (solera) system the house has maintained since 1946, where older wines are continuously refreshed with younger vintages to ensure a consistent, complex, and deeply layered house style.

Based on the 2021 base vintage with over 50% reserve wines, this is a Pinot Noir-driven expression that emphasizes the vinous, gastronomic character of the Mareuil-sur-Aÿ terroir. The blend — 65% Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay, 3% Pinot Meunier — is vinified primarily in stainless steel, with reserve wines aged in oak and partial malolactic fermentation. Disgorged December 2024 with 8g/L dosage.

Expert Reviews

Decanter 94 Points — A distinctly red-berry nose of red currants and small forest fruit. Red Delicious apple carries a telltale Pinot scent. The palate has pure, bright apple fruit, a lemony verve, and a very delicate mousse backed by gently salty autolysis. Vanilla oak comes through like the custard on an apple crumble, carrying freshness and flavour to a lingering finish.

Wine Enthusiast 93 Points — The nonvintage cuvée from this producer, based on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Reims, is beautifully judged. Rich while also showing great freshness from citrus fruit flavors.

James Suckling 93 Points — Complex and smoky nose with orange blossom, green apple, licorice, chalky minerality, and toasted bread. Refined palate with pinprick mousse, crisp acidity, and a tight, tense, clean aftertaste.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points — Bright straw color. Inviting and pure, with gorgeous red fruits, notes of almond, peaches, red berries, and fresh bread. The mousse is elegant and integrates beautifully into the wine.

Wine Spectator 92 Points — A baseline of chalky minerality supports juicy pear and white cherry fruit, lemon peel, and pickled ginger alongside rich accents of crystallized honey and biscuit. Harmonious and finely knit, with good length through the lightly spiced finish.

Wine Advocate 90 Points — Opens with an inviting bouquet of ripe peach, red berries, pear, and pastry. Medium- to full-bodied, broad-shouldered and textural, delivering a generous, enveloping style energized by racy acidity.

Food Pairings

A gastronomic Champagne with the body to carry a full meal. Exceptional with scallops in butter sauce, lobster, roasted poultry, premium charcuterie, and high-quality sushi or sashimi.

Wine Details

Producer: Philipponnat
Cuvée: Réserve Perpétuelle Brut NV
Blend: 65% Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay, 3% Pinot Meunier
Base Vintage: 2021
Disgorgement: December 2024
Dosage: 8 g/L
Appellation: Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Champagne, France
Size: 750ml

Producer Description 

Vermouth di Torino GI, features only Italian wines enriched with a botanical bouquet featuring Artemisia (wormwood) from Piedmont.

Colour Reddish brown with amber reflections

Nose Complex spiced, wood, and root notes open to smooth vanilla, dried fruit (especially, fig) and floral wormwood signature.

Taste On the palate, dried fig opens to spiced (cloves, nutmeg, pepper, cinnamon) and wood (roots & barks such as liquorice), rounded with vanilla and Alpine flowers. Mouth-warming, with long bittersweet finish, typical of Piedmont wormwood, and amber resin memories. 

Winemaker Description 

This Prosecco, boasts a flavor profile guaranteed to delight your palate. With notes of white peach and ripe apple, as well as dog roses and other florals, this white wine is perfectly balanced.

Memo Summary Notes

Fasol Menin "Leonte" Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry is the most classic and representative version from this artisanal winery in Valdobbiadene. It is a Prosecco that focuses entirely on the balance between the typical softness of the residual sugar (Extra Dry) and the mineral freshness of the Treviso hills.

Food pairing: It pairs beautifully with finger food, shellfish, legume soups (such as the typical Venetian pasta and bean soup in a lighter version), and fresh cheeses. It's also surprisingly good with not-too-spicy Asian cuisine (sushi and sashimi).

González Byass Noé Pedro Ximénez VORS — 30 Years, Jerez

Noé is one of the rarest and most extraordinary sherries in existence. Produced by González Byass — the historic house behind Tio Pepe — from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes with a final average age of over 30 years, this VORS (“Very Old Rare Sherry”) is a wine of almost incomprehensible concentration and complexity.

With a sugar level of 400 grams per liter, Noé pours like liquid velvet: deep mahogany, viscous, and intensely aromatic. The nose layers buckwheat honey, Black Forest cake, dried fig, raisin, chocolate, cinnamon, and a haunting balsamic depth. On the palate, the sweetness is perfectly balanced by a bright, racy acidity that is utterly uncommon for wines of this richness — finishing long, fiery, and unforgettable.

James Suckling 95 • Wine Spectator 94 • Wine Enthusiast 94 • Wine Advocate 91

• Producer: González Byass, Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
• Style: Pedro Ximénez VORS Sherry
• Average Age: 30+ Years
• Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
• ABV: 15.5%
• Residual Sugar: 400 g/L
• Tasting Notes: Buckwheat honey, Black Forest cake, dried fig, raisin, dark chocolate, cinnamon, balsamic
• Best Served: Slightly chilled over vanilla ice cream, with aged cheeses, or as a contemplative digestif

A once-in-a-lifetime sherry experience in a half bottle — perfect for gifting or savoring over an evening. One of the greatest sweet wines in the world.

Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut — Épernay, Champagne NV

The Grand Brut is the signature non-vintage cuvée of Perrier-Jouët — one of Champagne's most storied houses, founded in 1811 in Épernay. Blended from Pinot Noir, Meunier, and Chardonnay sourced across the Champagne appellation, this is a wine of effortless elegance and consistent house character. The Wine Spectator awarded it 92 points. Floral, precise, and beautifully balanced, it is one of the most versatile and food-friendly Champagnes at its price point.

The nose opens with oyster shell, smoke, and fleur de sel, leading into poached quince, tangerine sorbet, candied ginger, and brioche. On the palate, the mousse is plush and creamy, with a long, minerally finish that is well-cut and refreshing. James Suckling noted silky texture, apricot pie, lemon curd, and a gentle salinity that lingers beautifully through the close.

Wine Spectator 92 • James Suckling 91 — "A silky Champagne with aromas of apricot pie, shortcrust, croissants, lemon curd and seashells."

• Producer: Perrier-Jouët, Épernay, Champagne, France
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: Pinot Noir, Meunier, Chardonnay
• Style: Brut, Non-Dosage
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Oyster shell, fleur de sel, brioche, poached quince, tangerine, candied ginger, lemon curd, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, shrimp, fish carpaccio, roasted chicken with lemon and thyme, delicate pastries

A 92-point non-vintage Champagne at an honest price — Perrier-Jouët's Grand Brut is the benchmark for what elegant, food-friendly Champagne can be.

Winemaker Description 

Bottega Rose Gold is a 100% Pinot Noir Prosecco from Lombardy in Italy. The cool climate and hilly terrain makes the ideal place for sparkling wine production.

On the eye: A salmon pink color with a fine, persistent mousse.
On the nose: Peach and summer berries.
On the palate: Fresh and crisp with floral notes and flavors of strawberry and peach. Fresh and fragrant with sweet peach and summer berries on the nose. 

Excels as an aperitif or with fish and chicken dishes. Also great with fruit desserts.

Tasting Notes

Kedem Malaga is a sweet, fortified Kosher wine with rich and luscious flavors of raisins, dates, almonds, honey, and dark fruits. Full-bodied and deeply satisfying, it's a timeless expression of classic Kosher winemaking — warming, indulgent, and perfect for the holidays.

About the Wine

Malaga-style wine has deep roots in Jewish tradition, long served at Shabbat and holiday tables. Kedem — one of America's most iconic Kosher wine producers with over a century of heritage — crafts this fortified wine to deliver consistent richness and sweetness that generations of families have come to love.

Serve

Enjoy slightly chilled or at room temperature as a dessert wine or aperitif. Pairs beautifully with dried fruits, nuts, dark chocolate, and honey cake. A natural for Passover Seder and holiday celebrations.

Product Details

• Style: Sweet Fortified Wine (Malaga)
• Format: 750ml
• Certification: Kosher
• Producer: Kedem Winery
• Country: United States

Expert Review - Vintage 2023 

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | I was able to taste the just-bottled 2023 Manoella Branco. This was a very balanced vintage, the growing season was almost perfect, and yields were good. The wine was a little closed for such an expressive year of wines with purity and freshness. It has notes of white flowers and fruit and a balsamic touch with the balance and harmony from the old vines.

Winemaker Description 

Vibrant and fresh wine with intense citric, floral and mineral notes. On the palate shows pure flavors and nice balance.

Varietals - Gouveio, Viosinho, Rabigato and Códega do Larinho.

Established in 2001 by Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges, both winemakers and couple, that have been investing and acquiring old vineyards and properties at Pinhão Valley. “Our goal is to create wines that express all the characters of the traditional vineyards and varieties from Douro Valley. Balanced wines between concentration, complexity and elegance.

Wine & Soul is one of the most exciting and dynamic producers in Portugal today, consistently earning high praise from international critics for both their still and fortified wines.

The harvest was planned for the first week of September in perfect weather conditions.

All grapes previously selected and de-stemmed were pressed on a pneumatic press and fermented on stainless steel tanks at low temperatures during 4 weeks, after which was aged sur lies during 6 months.


Paltrinieri | Solco | Lambrusco dell'Emilia | Emilia-Romagna, Italy | 2024 | 750ml

Paltrinieri is one of the benchmark producers of serious Lambrusco — the kind that has nothing to do with the sweet, mass-market versions that defined the grape's reputation for decades. Based in Sorbara, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the estate farms its vines with care and bottles wines that are dry, vivid, and deeply tied to the region's food culture.

The Solco is their entry point and one of the most satisfying bottles at its price. Deep purple-ruby in the glass, it opens with sweet cream, raspberry, and spice before revealing tantalizing acidity and tart wild berry fruit. The finish is long and intense, closing with violet and lavender florals. This is Lambrusco as it should be: wickedly fresh, perfumed, and built for the table.

Serve it chilled (10–12°C) — it works as an aperitif, alongside a charcuterie spread, or as the ideal foil to the rich, fatty classics of Emilian cuisine: tortellini in brodo, mortadella, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tigelle.

91 Points — Vinous (Eric Guido): "Wickedly fresh and perfumed with tantalizing acidity and tart wild berry fruit notes. Long and intense, closes with violet and lavender inner florals."

• Appellation: Lambrusco dell'Emilia IGT, Emilia-Romagna
• Grape: Lambrusco
• Style: Dry, sparkling red
• Serve: Chilled, 10–12°C
• Pairs with: Mortadella, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tortellini, charcuterie, pizza, tomato-based pasta

Famiglia Carafoli L’Onesta Lambrusco di Sorbara — Emilia-Romagna NV

Famiglia Carafoli is a third-generation family estate based in Modena, the heartland of authentic Lambrusco. Under the stewardship of Carlo, Paolo, and Mario Carafoli, the domaine has remained committed to the traditional, dry style of Lambrusco di Sorbara — a far cry from the sweet, mass-market versions that defined the category for decades. L’Onesta (“The Honest One”) blends Sorbara, Salamino, Marani, and Grasparossa grapes into a bright, dry sparkling red of genuine character and refreshing precision. At this price, it is one of the most exciting values in Italian sparkling wine.

The nose is fragrant and inviting: violets, fresh red berries, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, it is light-bodied with lively, fine bubbles, refreshing acidity, and a crisp, dry finish that is clean and moreish. This is Lambrusco as it was always meant to be — honest, food-friendly, and impossible to put down.

67 Wine — “L’Onesta is the real deal: dry, bright, and violet-scented, with the kind of refreshing acidity that makes every bite of prosciutto taste better.”

• Producer: Famiglia Carafoli, Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC
• Blend: Sorbara, Salamino, Marani, Grasparossa
• Style: Dry (Secco)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Violets, fresh red berries, floral notes, fine bubbles, crisp dry finish
• Best Paired With: Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tagliatelle al ragù, charcuterie, pizza

Honest, dry, and irresistibly food-friendly — Famiglia Carafoli’s L’Onesta is the Lambrusco that converts skeptics.

About the Sake

Don’t let the Futsushu (everyday sake) classification fool you — Kirinzan Classic takes the concept of daily sake to new heights. While most breweries focus on showcasing premium ginjo styles, Kirinzan takes immense pride in this entry-level expression, crafting it with the same care and precision as their finest bottles.

Made from Gohyaku Mangoku and Koshi Ibuki sake rice polished to 65% — beyond the requirements for even the premium Honjozo grade — all rice is sourced directly from small farmers in the local agricultural cooperative, none farther than five miles from the brewery. Brewed with soft Niigata mountain water in the house style: dry, clean, light-bodied, and beautifully balanced.

Tasting Notes

Dry and clean with notes of hazelnut and toasted rice, a gentle minerality, and a crisp, refreshing finish. Light-bodied and food-friendly — never competing with a dish, only enhancing it.

Serving

Versatile and approachable — excellent served chilled, at room temperature, or gently warmed (nurukan).

Food Pairing

The ultimate food sake — pairs beautifully with sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, tempura, yakitori, ramen, and izakaya-style dishes.

Product Details

• Producer: Kirinzan Brewery
• Style: Futsushu (Everyday Sake)
• Rice: Gohyaku Mangoku & Koshi Ibuki
• Polishing Ratio: 65%
• Sake Meter Value: +6 (Dry)
• Acidity: 1.3
• ABV: 15–16%
• Region: Niigata Prefecture, Japan
• Format: 720ml

Our Professional Reviews

Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer: This 100% Chardonnay comes from vineyards in the village of Mâcon-Chardonnay, one of the villages allowed to append its name to the Mâcon appellation. An outstanding fresh white with aromas of quince and white stone fruits and a delicate touch of oak. Great pairing with soft-ripened cheeses or white fish.

Bart Hopkins, 67 Wine Buyer: The 2023 Mâcon-Chardonnay is the inaugural vintage of this wine from renowned Puligny-Montrachet winemaker Alain Chavy and his son Corentin. The grapes are sourced from various growers and vinified at the family cellar in Puligny under their care and guidance. Clean and refreshing with lovely Chardonnay white fruit character and floral complexity. Medium-bodied with a nice lift of acidity on the long finish.

About the Wine

The Chavy-Martin Mâcon-Chardonnay 2023 is a standout value from Burgundy, crafted by the father-son team behind some of Puligny-Montrachet’s finest whites. This inaugural release brings premier cru-level winemaking expertise to an accessible Mâcon appellation bottling.

Tasting & Pairings

Quince, white stone fruits, floral notes, and a delicate touch of oak. Clean, refreshing, and medium-bodied with bright acidity and a long finish. Serve well chilled.

• Roasted chicken or grilled white fish — the wine’s freshness and weight are a natural match.
• Soft-ripened or creamy goat cheese — complements the stone fruit and floral character.
• Pasta with garlic-butter sauce — enough body to stand up to a light cream preparation.

Delight in the elegance of A Margaine 1er Cru Le Brut NV, a refined Champagne that perfectly balances freshness and finesse. Bursting with vibrant notes of citrus, green apple, and delicate brioche, its fine bubbles and crisp acidity make every sip celebratory. Ideal as an aperitif or paired with seafood and light dishes, this NV Champagne embodies the artistry of the Premier Cru vineyards and the house’s dedication to excellence.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points: This sparkling wine delivers a full experience at 9% alcohol. A creamy mousse reveals aromas of strawberry and peach on the nose. The mousse also engages the palate, with lime peel and rounded strawberry flavors working well with the creamy texture.

Winemaker Description 

Everything is better with bubbles! Sunny Bubbly delights with flavors of fresh strawberry and watermelon wrapped in a package of lovely, fine bubbles and a crisp, refreshing finish. We are all born to sparkle. Zero sugar, low alcohol, low calorie and positively delicious!

Winemaker Description 

Bubbly and lively La Marca Prosecco Rosé was crafted in the heart of Italy. This playful pop of pink offers a new way to enjoy Prosecco: with the bright, crisp fruit and floral essence of our traditional Prosecco combined with the delicate elegance of Pinot Noir.

La Marca Prosecco Rosé boasts classic notes of fresh-picked citrus, honeysuckle, peach and pear, blended beautifully with hints of ripe red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry. Zesty, refreshing, and effervescent, La Marca Prosecco Rosé is perfect for any soirée or spontaneous celebration.

Pair it with salmon and avocado salad, creamy burrata and crusty bread, or juicy fruits like watermelon and cherries for a stylishly simple treat.

La Marca Prosecco Rosé isn’t just for summer—it shines year-round. In cooler months, its bright notes pair beautifully with apple and goat cheese salad, warm baked brie, butternut squash soup, or hearty roasted vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Winemaker Description

The Cava Brut by Elvi is a highly drinkable sparkling wine made from grapes grown in Spain's fertile wine regions. The coloring is very light, and nearly translucent with a straw coloring and some greenness. The bubbles are nice and prominent, both pleasurable to the eye and mouth.

The aroma is complex, with many different notes. A touch of fruit, a touch of yeast, and a touch of almond swirl around in the nose. The texture feels nice in the mouth with lighter acids that fall away at the end and a shorter aftertaste. Very enjoyable and easy to drink.

The most elegant expression in the Martini & Rossi portfolio — Bianco Vermouth has been captivating aperitivo culture since its creation in Pessione, Italy in 1910. Originally known as "Bianchissimo" (meaning ‘whitest’), it remains the most cosmopolitan of Italian vermouths: pale, aromatic, and unmistakably refined.

Crafted from a base of selected white wines infused with a proprietary blend of aromatic herbs and flowers, Bianco strikes a distinctive balance between sweet and dry. The nose is delicate and floral, with vanilla and citrus at the fore. On the palate it’s smooth and rounded, with an intense yet gentle sweetness that makes it as approachable on its own as it is versatile in cocktails.

Producer Description

Martini Bianco is made from white wines graced with extracts of aromatic herbs and flowers, giving it a unique and delicate character. Beneath its crisp innocence lies a wealth of flavor — vanilla and citrus seducing the palate with an intense yet sweet, rounded smoothness.

• Producer: Martini & Rossi, Pessione, Turin, Italy (est. 1863)
• Style: Bianco (White) Vermouth
• Character: Semi-sweet, floral, vanilla & citrus
• Format: 750ml
• Serve: Over ice with tonic and a slice of lemon, or in a Bianco Spritz or White Negroni
• Tip: Refrigerate after opening and consume within 4–6 weeks

VINOUS 93 Points

The NV Extra Brut Rosé ADN de Meunier is a classic-layered and supple with rose petals, mint, dried cherry, mint, spice and orange peel. Assembled with the inclusion of 10% still red Meunier, the Rosé is exquisitely nuanced and super expressive, offering great depth and tons of personality.

• Practicing organic
• 90% Pinot Noir (15% vin rouge), 10% Chardonnay
• 50% 2022, 50% 2021-2020
• From Rilly-la-Montagne 1er Cru and Villers-Allerands 1er Cru
• Clay and limestone
• 35+ year old vines
• No malo
• Fermented and aged in large foudre
• Aged 30+ months on the lees
• Dosage: 8g/L

• The Wine Advocate by William Kelley writes 92 Points |

  Generous and expressive, the latest rendition of Vilmart's NV Brut Premier Cru Cuvée Rubis is showing very well, bursting with aromas of red berries, plums, blood orange and dried flowers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, with a sapid core of fruit, a pillowy mousse and a lively, delicately phenolic finish, it's already drinking well. This is based on the 2017 vintage, with reserve wines from the 2016 and 2015 vintages, and it was disgorged with nine grams per liter dosage.

• The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Fine and harmonious, this is lightly chalky and refined in texture, showing pinpoint integration of its well-spiced range of pureed raspberry, blood orange granita, lime peel, biscuit and mineral notes and its spine of chiseled acidity. Concentrated yet ethereal. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Disgorged July 2024. Drink now through 2030.
• Allen Meadows Burghound 91 Points | Medium ruby color. The moderately fruity nose is composed of raspberry, cherry, strawberry and lovely yeast, apple and citrus peel whiffs. The delicious and super-yeasty flavors possess fine depth on the clean and relatively dry finish, indeed this is notably drier than what is typical for the genre. Lovely and this is a wine that could be enjoyed now or held for a few years first.
• Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | The NV Cuvée Rubis is vibrant pink, with aromas of wildflowers, wild raspberry, and juicy fruit. The palate is juicy and round, with blood orange, and perfect for relatively near-term drinking over the next 6-8 years.

Expert Reviews

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | The NV 10 Year Old Tawny was bottled in 2013 with a bar top cork. It comes in at 106.7 grams per liter of residual sugar. Some Ports emphasize flavor, others emphasize structure. This starts out with perfect focus, elegant but increasingly intense on the tight finish. Early on, it was all about the structure, with a haze of velvet. The flavors were a bit muted initially, but it unfolded into an elegant and graceful whole with a flavorful finish. Its bright, clean feel always remains as it fleshes out and puts on weight. 

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | Refined, with bright flavors of dried berry, plum compote and cherry tart that are long and lush. Very creamy on the finish, which features chocolate mousse.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | In the full Fonseca style, this aged tawny shows both rich fruit and a more serious wood-aged character. Good acidity follows the sweet initial taste, broadening into ripe flavors of nut, plum jelly, and a final crisp acidity.

Winemaker Description 

95 Jeb Dunnuck: From one site, the 2015 Finca Iscorta De Pecina Gran Reserva has more density, more alcohol, more color, and more black fruit on the palate and should age outstandingly. Finca Iscorta is the winery’s oldest vineyard, which it treats as a grand cru, only making the wine in worthy years. The next won’t be until 2019. Strong and powerful in tannin and full-bodied weight, it could go another 20-30 years, so intensely concentrated, spiced, and textured, from both a powerful year and a powerful site. It spent four years in used American oak.

94  Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: A more modern Gran Reserva from a single vineyard, the 2015 Finca Iscorta de Peciña Gran Reserva was produced with the grapes from a 50-year-old vineyard, fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel with a moderate extraction and short-ish maceration. It matured in used American oak barrels for four years and was racked every six months. It's a little darker, the color and the fruit profile, and it's intensely balsamic, with notes of camphor and abundant spicy notes. It's solid and seamless and fills your mouth; it's powerful with 15% alcohol and 6.2 grams of acidity, ripe but balanced.

Winemaker Notes

About the Wine

Raeburn Skylight Chardonnay is a lower-alcohol expression of Sonoma County Chardonnay, crafted for modern wine lovers who want full flavor at a lighter level. All the character of Sonoma Chardonnay — without sacrificing flavor or finesse.

Tasting Notes

Fresh apple, pear, and citrus blossom on the nose, followed by subtle stone fruit and a gentle touch of oak. Clean and refreshing on the palate with lively acidity and a smooth, elegant finish.

Pairings & Serving

• Grilled fish or shrimp with lemon — the bright acidity and citrus notes are a natural match.
• Light salads or roasted chicken — the wine’s clean profile complements without overpowering.
• Soft cheeses or light appetizers — an easy-going aperitif or patio sipper.

Winemaker Description 

Charmat method sparkling wine.

This is a refined Brut with a delicate mineral nature and a flowery, welcoming bouquet which charms the senses.

Each sip conjures fresh sensations and light thoughts.

Soft pressing in pneumatic press, sedimentation of must and fermentation at controlled temperature with inoculation of selected yeasts. Aflnation in steel barrels for at least 4 months.

Charmat method for 30 days in autoclave. 

Expert Review

Sylvia Wu of Decanter 92 Points | The base wine went through malolactic fermentation with battonage. Yeasty on the nose with citrus blossom, salted nuts and yellow apple. Generous mousse opens up to a full-on palate of brioche, citrus, green fruit acidity and depth of spiced red berries. Satisfying and long. The latest release is based on the 2018 vintage. Drink 2023 - 2028

Winemaker Description 

Our signature Hambledon Classic Cuvée is produced exclusively from our own estate on the South East facing chalk slopes of Windmill Down, in the historic village of Hambledon.

Our Hambledon Classic Cuvée is a well-balanced blend of all 3 traditional grapes, handpicked on our own estate. Aged at least 35 months, it is vibrant, with structured yet ripe acidity. Tasting will elegantly unfold to reveal layers of floral and stone fruit aromas.

Our Hambledon Classic Cuvée is a well-balanced blend of all 3 traditional grapes, handpicked on our own estate. Aged at least 35 months, it is vibrant, with structured yet ripe acidity. Tasting will elegantly unfold to reveal layers of floral and stone fruit aromas.

Veuve Clicquot · Yellow Label Brut · Limited Edition - ICE JACKET · Champagne, France · NV · 750ml

Veuve Clicquot is one of the great houses of Champagne — founded in Reims in 1772 and forever transformed by the Widow Clicquot herself, who invented the riddling rack and created the first vintage Champagne. The Yellow Label Brut is the house’s signature expression: a Pinot Noir-dominant blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, and 20% Pinot Meunier, with up to 45% reserve wines ensuring the consistency and house style that has made it one of the world’s most recognized Champagnes. The ICE JACKET edition wraps the bottle in a redesigned, eco-engineered insulating sleeve — crafted from 100% recycled plastic fibres using 3D knitting technology that reduces production waste by 30% — keeping the bottle perfectly chilled for up to 60 minutes. Lighter, reusable, and customizable. 

Brilliant pale gold in the glass with fine, persistent bubbles and an expressive nose of baked apple, quince, salted almond, white blossom, and a thread of fresh citrus and pastry. On the palate: firm and beautifully structured, with a fleshy mouthfeel balanced by crisp acidity — sliced apple, green pear, red berry, lemon parfait, and oyster shell minerality carrying through a long, vibrant, mineral-driven finish. Four critics, four 90+ scores: Tasting Panel 93, James Suckling 92, Decanter 91, Wine Spectator 91. Drink now. Pair with oysters, lobster, sushi, fried chicken, aged Comté, or simply on its own to start any celebration.

• Producer: Veuve Clicquot (est. 1772, Reims)
• Wine: Yellow Label Brut · ICE JACKET Edition
• Style: NV Brut Champagne
• Origin: Champagne, France
• Blend: 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Meunier
• Reserve wines: Up to 45% in the blend
• ICE JACKET: Recycled plastic fibres · 3D knit · Keeps chilled 60 min · Reusable
• Scores: Tasting Panel 93 · James Suckling 92 · Decanter 91 · Wine Spectator 91
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Baked apple, quince, salted almond, white blossom, citrus, red berry, oyster shell, long mineral finish
• Pair With: Oysters · Lobster · Sushi · Fried chicken · Aged Comté · Aperitif

The Widow’s legacy, wrapped in innovation — Yellow Label Brut in the ICE JACKET that keeps the party going.

Expert Reviews

Tasting Panel — 93 Points
Aromas of baked apple and quince are energetically dappled with salted almond and white blossom, while the fleshy mouthfeel intersects neatly with firm acidity amid intimations of red berry and pastry.

James Suckling — 92 Points
Firm and delicious, showing sliced apples and green pears with some flint and bread dough. Medium-bodied with fine bubbles and a crisp, delicious finish.

Decanter — 91 Points
The nose offers yeasty bready aromas topped with fresh citrus, hints of stone fruit and strawberry tart. A palate of fresh croissants, red berries, green apple and lively lemon citrus, with lovely creaminess to the bright finish.

Wine Spectator — 91 Points
Appealing for its refreshing, aperitif style, with notes of patisserie apple and pear, lemon parfait, chopped almond and oyster shell. Vibrant acidity and lacy texture carry the profile on the mineral-driven finish.

"Scott and Jenny Schultz of Jolie-Laide make highly distinctive wines from grapes that are not among California’s usual suspects. The Trousseau Gris grapes for this bottle were farmed organically and stomped by foot. The wine is lively and aromatic and will go with a wide range of savory and sweetish things." — Eric Asimov, The New York Times

About the Wine

Planted in the late 1970s, these rare, near-extinct vines with massive, gnarly trunks produce unique and fascinating fruit. Since Jolie-Laide’s first Fanucchi Wood Road Trousseau Gris bottling in 2010, the wines have shown a strong structural foundation with vintage-driven character.

In 2024, Mother Nature yielded half the fruit of 2023 — making this Trousseau Gris as rare as the old vines that produced it. To preserve natural acidity, the grapes were harvested early and foot-stomped for a three-day whole-cluster cold soak. This gentle maceration adds subtle phenolic texture, lifted aromatics, and a gorgeous rose-gold hue. The juice was then moved to a combination of neutral puncheon and stainless steel for a slow, cold native yeast fermentation, followed by a 6-month élevage in neutral puncheons and barrique to preserve freshness.

Tasting Notes

Fresh and elegant — summer melon, nectarine, white tea, and pine. 12.5% ABV.

About the Label

The 2024 labels feature the work of Sandra Fontenas, a French visual artist and photographer based in La Rochelle, France.

Food Pairings

Oysters, grilled fish, sushi, charcuterie, soft cheeses, roasted vegetables, and light poultry. Equally stunning as an aperitif. Serve well chilled.

• Producer: Jolie-Laide (Scott & Jenny Schultz)
• Vineyard: Fanucchi Wood Road, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Grape: Trousseau Gris
• Farming: Organic, old vines (planted late 1970s)
• Vinification: Foot-stomped, whole-cluster cold soak, native yeast
• Aging: 6 months, neutral puncheon + stainless steel
• ABV: 12.5%
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

A beloved classic from one of America's most iconic kosher wine producers, Kedem Cream White Concord is a sweet, smooth, and approachable white grape wine made from native Concord grapes. Light, fruity, and effortlessly drinkable, it's a staple at holiday tables and a go-to for those who enjoy a gently sweet wine without complexity.

Tasting Notes

Color: Pale golden

• Nose: Fresh white grape, light floral notes, and a hint of honey
• Palate: Sweet, smooth, and soft with classic Concord grape character
• Finish: Clean and refreshing

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled at 8–10°C
• Pairs well with desserts, pastries, fruit platters, and light cheeses
• A natural choice for Shabbat, Passover, and holiday celebrations

Kosher certified. 750ml. New York, USA.

Winemaker Evan Martin has called Koosah “the greatest Chardonnay vineyard in the Willamette Valley” — and the scores agree. Sourced from the Koosah Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills, this is Oregon grand cru Chardonnay in every sense: remarkable texture and tension between fruit, minerality, and acidity, with a finish that lingers with persistent freshness and a note of salinity. Martin himself describes it as Oregon’s answer to Puligny-Montrachet — built to drink now or cellar for 15+ years.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

“Dazzles with spiced apples, damp earth, a hint of saline, green melon, and subtle notes of white tea. Beautiful structure with a touch of tannins, perfect acidity and balanced sweetness, leading to a long, fruit-forward and saline-infused finish. An outstanding bottle poised for an even brighter future. Editor’s Choice.” — 97 pts, International Wine Cellar

“Bright yellow/silver color. Notes of smoky earth, white peach, lemon oil, and white floral tone. Lovely richness without weight, exceptionally focused length. Drink 2025–2037.” — 96 pts, Jeb Dunnuck

“The floral quality of its aromas balances the somewhat rich mouthfeel. Vibrant energy and nice overall structure — balanced acidity — featuring notes of stone fruits, crispy apples, lemon peel, and herbs. This wine nails both phenolic structure and rich texture.” — 95 pts, Decanter

Winery Notes: Lemon oil, green & gold apple, moss, white flower & minerals. Medium weight while possessing weightlessness. Our ‘Puligny’ — Oregon grand cru Chardonnay to enjoy now or cellar 15+ years.

Food Pairings: Roasted halibut, lobster, scallops, truffle risotto, aged Gruyère, and soft-ripened cheeses.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Producer: Martin Woods
Vineyard: Koosah Vineyard
Appellation: Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Vintage: 2022
Cellar: Drink now or cellar 15+ years
Bottle Size: 750ml

Cupcake Lighthearted Low Alcohol Pinot Noir 750ml

Discover Cupcake Lighthearted Low Alcohol Pinot Noir, a refreshing choice crafted to support an active lifestyle without compromising on flavor. Winemaker Jessica Tomei was inspired to create Cupcake Vineyards' Lighthearted collection after struggling to find delicious tasting wines that fit her active lifestyle. This elegant Pinot Noir is light and juicy with notes of wild strawberry and plum, offering only 80 calories, 8% ABV, and less than one gram of sugar per serving, while maintaining the classic Pinot Noir profile you love.

Crafted for an Active Lifestyle

These wines are crafted with grapes grown in sunny California vineyards, perfectly structured to create well-balanced and medium-bodied wines. The grapes are harvested early in the growing season to minimize brix levels, which allow for a lower sugar, lower alcohol product after blending. The quality of these grapes makes for wines that deliver exceptional taste while supporting health-conscious choices, designed for a lighthearted sipping experience that's ideal for any occasion.

Tasting Profile

Light and juicy with vibrant notes of wild strawberry and plum. This Pinot Noir presents an inviting bouquet of cherries, strawberries, and a hint of vanilla, which is characteristic of the varietal. Upon tasting, you'll discover a vibrant acidity that enhances the fruitiness, making it incredibly refreshing. The light body ensures that it can be enjoyed chilled, perfect for warm weather sipping. Each sip is a celebration of bright flavors, showing that you don't have to compromise on taste to enjoy a low alcohol option.

Only 80 Calories Per Serving

Nutritional Benefits:

• Only 80 calories per serving
• 8% ABV (lower than traditional Pinot Noir)
• Less than 1 gram of sugar per serving
• Classic Pinot Noir profile maintained

Food Pairing Suggestions

This versatile low alcohol Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled salmon and seafood
• Roasted vegetables
• Light cheese platters
• Poultry and chicken dishes
• Mushroom-based dishes
• Perfect for casual gatherings
• Ideal chilled for warm weather

Winemaker Jessica Tomei's Vision

Cupcake Vineyards believes in creating wines that are not only delightful to the palate but also accessible for all drinkers. The Lighthearted line is innovatively produced to reduce alcohol content without compromising on flavor or quality. Each bottle embodies a commitment to sustainability and quality, reflecting the vineyard's dedication to responsible wine production. Enjoy each drop with the knowledge that you're making a mindful choice.

Why Choose Low Alcohol Wines?

Low alcohol wines like the Cupcake Lighthearted Pinot Noir are gaining popularity for several good reasons. They allow you to enjoy the rich experience of wine tasting while keeping your alcohol intake in check, particularly beneficial for those who are health-conscious or looking to moderate their alcohol consumption. With its lower ethanol content, you can savor the intricate flavors without the heaviness that often accompanies higher alcohol wines. Embrace the trend of lighter wines, and discover the joys of a glass that pairs perfectly with both meals and casual gatherings, striking the right balance between flavor and lightness.

Expert Reviews 

The Tastting Panel 91 Points | Smooth with generous fruit and fine bubbles: fresh, juicy, and clean with a tangy style; a delightful wine and an amazing value. 

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | This sleek sparkler is expressive with its floral apple and toasty cinnamon aromas and crisp, layered flavors of lime and mineral.

Memo Summary Notes

The Gruet Brut Gold Label is a legendary value in the American sparkling wine world. While the winery is located in New Mexico, the Gruet family originally hailed from Champagne, France, and they use the strict Méthode Champenoise (secondary fermentation in the bottle) to produce this wine.

Pair with

• Casual: Salty appetizers like popcorn, potato chips, or fried calamari.

• Sophisticated: Oysters on the half shell or a classic Shrimp Cocktail.

• Main: Fried chicken (the acidity cuts right through the richness).