1969 - Older Wine

Expert Reviews

Decanter 94 Points | The nose opens with the fresh ripeness of yellow apple and highlights of Granny Smith. It has beautifully subtle autolysis on the palate, deepening into notes of creamy apple crumble, Golden Delicious and Mirabelle plum, while remaining utterly strait-laced. Elegance, length and absolute freshness are inherent and quietly convincing.

The Wine Spectator 93 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. Should pair well with grilled fish. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | With a base from 2018, the NV Champagne Grande Reserve Brut pours a bright straw hue and lifts from the glass with pure and inviting aromas of white peach, fresh flowers, and wet stone. Medium-bodied, with a fresh lift on the palate, a fresh pillowy mousse, and a delicate saline finish, this is a wonderful calling card for the freshness of the house style.

James Suckling 92 Points | Lemon tart, spiced apples, almonds and pastries on the nose of this tasty Champagne. It’s fresh, lively and very precise, with fine bubbles and a light, chalky undertone.

The Wine Enthusiast 91 Points | Gosset’s nonvintage cuvée is a fine example of the richness of this producer’s Champagnes. It is full, laden with Pinot texture and a touch of toast from bottle aging. Drink now.

Winemaker

The Gosset family has been established in Champagne well before 1484, when Jean Gosset was born. A century later, Pierre Gosset, alderman of Aÿ and winegrower, founded the House, which produced still wines, often red, from its own vineyards.

Architecture: Chardonnay 45%, Pinot Noir 45 %, Meunier 10%
Cellaring: end of spring 2019 - 4 years minimum in cellar.

Disgorgement: after disgorgement, the bottles are returned to the cellars to rest for
at least 6 months to allow the wine to smoothly assimilate the dosage
Villages: Aÿ, Bouzy, Ambonnay, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Villers-Marmery...

Dosage: 8 g/l

This is our signature Champagne, the expression of the Gosset style.

APPEARANCE: Luminous, golden hue.

NOSE: The nose shows freshness and fruit with notes of lemon meringue pie followed
by yellow fruit such as Mirabelle plums. Then, as the Champagne warms up, aromas of plums with slightly honeyed and toasted notes start to come through.

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. 

Expert Reviews

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Pouring a bright pale yellow hue, the NV Champagne Reserve Brut is from 2019, with 40% each Pinot Noir and Meunier and 20% Chardonnay. It opens to reveal notes of wet asphalt, ripe white peach, and fresh redcurrant. Medium-bodied and approachable, it has a rounded mid-palate, a chalky and pithy texture with a lively yet fine mousse, and a light note of brûléed grapefruit rind on the finish. It’s an attractive and balanced wine with a clean finish. 

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | A lithe and graceful Champagne, 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. Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | A blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier and 20% Chardonnay, the NV Réserve Brut from Champagne Leclerc Briant is showing well today, evoking a lively, fresh bouquet of pear, verbena, lime tree, herbs and menthol. Moderately weighted and tense, it's vinous and energetic with an incisive mid-palate and a mouthwatering, fresh finish. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | With its soft pink hue and inviting berryscented 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. 

Winemaker Description 

Argeo Prosecco Rosé has a soft pink color reminiscent of peach flowers with an abundant foam and lively, fine perlage. On the nose the typical aromatic notes of the Glera grapes are enriched with very delicate and fresh scents of brambly fruits such as red currants and raspberries. The bouquet of white flowers and berry fruits is enveloped by a very pleasant balsamic note of fresh rosemary leaves. On the palate every sip is bursting with life, with the freshness of flavor and full-bodied structure typical of Pinot Noir. The finish is long, elegant, complex, silky and harmonious, perfectly matching the aromas. 

For five generations, the name Ruggeri has been synonymous with the finest Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. The founder Eliseo Bisol and his son Luigi were among the first modern winemakers in the region, and the current winery dates from the 1950s. Today, Ruggeri stands among the top wineries of Valdobbiadene, always seeking to be mindful of the past while being visionary about the future. Now part of the Rotkäppchen-Mumm Group, Ruggeri continues to be recognised around the world for its pioneering spirit and commitment to the highest quality.

#9 Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025 - this is truly one of the great wines from Tuscany you can purchase this year.  And highly sought after! 

95 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: This wine represents a selection of the best Sangiovese sourced from various plots with a tiny addition of Merlot and Malvasia Nera. The Castello di Ama 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo takes a few extra moments to open in the glass, but unlike the La Casuccia that holds back, this wine comes into full view quickly enough. The wine's flavor profile is a little meatier and fuller, and this could be linked to the warm vintage conditions. San Lorenzo is a generous wine, and it is a bottle you can enjoy in the medium or long term.

95 Points Wine Spectator : Deep, dark and densely wrought, featuring black cherry, blackberry, violet, iron and tobacco aromas and flavors. Its sinewy tannins are enhanced by the vivid acidity. Everything comes together on the crystalline aftertaste, which echoes the fruit and floral elements. Power meets finesse. Sangiovese and Merlot.

95 Points Decanter A clever bridge between the entire Castello di Ama stable, San Lorenzo is a selection of older vines from key estate vineyards. It also includes both Merlot and Malvasia Nera, which contribute to the identity of the cru bottlings. In 2021, this flagbearer is a brilliant balance of fruit and territorial expression with deftly integrated oak. Tobacco, iron and nutmeg infuse dark plum and cherry. There is great flow and length, with tangy, mouth-cleansing acidity. Articulate aromas and flavours along with finessed tannins give a sense of readiness – but that authoritative structure has the last word.

99 Points James Suckling: This is really perfumed and gorgeous, with black cherries, blackcurrants and violets. Full-bodied with totally integrated tannins and a palate presence that is pretty spectacular. Wonderful finish. Give this three or four years.

Winemaker Notes

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Advocate 93 Points | The 2023 Malbec leads with an elegantly perfumed, juicy bouquet accented with turned-earth aromas. The texture is precise, vibrant and straightforward, concluding on a high-toned finish with a savory, sturdy core.

Memo Notes Summary 

The Catena Malbec Classic Mendoza 2023 is widely considered an excellent, high-value representation of Argentine Malbec. It comes from the prestigious Bodega Catena Zapata, a pioneering winery in high-altitude viticulture.

The classic Catena Malbec is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of savory dishes:

Classic Pairing: Grilled red meats, especially leaner cuts like skirt steak, flank steak, or sirloin.

Cheeses: Aged cheeses, sharp cheddar, blue cheese, and Manchego.

Dishes: Roasted lamb, beef empanadas, hearty stews, or pasta with rich, tomato-based sauces.

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).

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.

Winemaker Description 

If you’re after Sauvignon Blanc with all the incredible crisp, tropical Marlborough flavours and less of the calories, you’ve come to the right place. We've made this Sauvy so you can enjoy it with 25% less alcohol and calories - now that's a winning combination! 9% alcohol per volume.

Winemaker Description 

Our 2024 Dry Rosé is a masterclass in balance and harmony—an artful blend of seven distinct grape varieties, each lending its own voice to a beautifully composed wine.

With the rare luxury of choosing optimal picking times, we believe the 2024 wines will be nothing short of exceptional, showcasing remarkable ripeness, structure, and depth.

Much like a conductor guiding an orchestra, our winemaking team thoughtfully blended each component to bring out the best in the ensemble. Saperavi forms the foundation, delivering depth, structure, and vivid red fruit. Pinot Noir contributes elegance and finesse, while Chardonnay adds a lift of citrusy acidity and a smooth, rounded texture. The supporting cast—Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Meunier, and Pinot Blanc—enhance the wine’s aromatic complexity and lively freshness.

The result is a dry rosé that’s generous, layered, and expressive, yet remains bright, crisp, and effortlessly drinkable. Each variety plays its part, weaving character and nuance into a rosé that’s both thought-provoking and irresistibly approachable. 

Expert review

Stuart Pigott writes:  Very delicate strawberry and raspberry aromas fill out the silky and crisp palate of this delicious, medium-bodied rosé. Supple but very fresh finish. From this producer's vineyards in Hector on the eastern side of Seneca Lake. Drink now. Screw cap.  - James Suckling 92

Expert Reviews 

Wine Spectator 94 Points | Singed black sesame, rye, buckwheat honey, Black Forest cake and blackberry reduction notes form a large-scaled core, with a viscous texture and a long, palate-coating finish. A light echo of peanut toffee adds just enough cut on the finish.

Wine Enthusiast 94 Points |  Ripe aromas of apricot, raisin and chocolate offer complex notes of dried cheese and sweat, making this anything but usual and normal. A jacked palate is racy and untamed, with bright acidity that's uncommon for wines this sweet. Chocolate, cinnamon, nutmeg and coffee flavors carry an acidic balsamic note, while this remains bold, fiery and blasting on the finish. *Editor's Choice*

Wine Advocate 91 Points | The NV Noe Pedro Ximenez Muy Viejos VORS 30 Anos from sun-dried Pedro Ximenez grapes originates in the Nectar solera, and has a final average age of more than 30 years. The sugar level is 400 grams per liter. It has a different character and profile, more vinous than other PXs, it displays a volatile nose, with some minty, herbaceous and balsamic notes, intermixed with incense, ash and tar. The palate is extremely intense, velvety and round, with balanced sweetness, ending with a varnished note that lifts the wine up.

James Suckling 95 Points | To anyone who knows British Christmas pudding, the dense flavors of dried fruit, burnt sugar and spices will be nothing new. However, the sheer density of flavor will be something new to many, as will the stunning acidity at the finish.

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.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

James Suckling: 94 Points, The fresh and floral nature of this wine is more than evident, with black cherry and orange undertones. The palate is medium-bodied and refined, with silky tannins and mineral highlights. Tangy and crisp at the end.

Wine Spectator: 91 Points Cherry, raspberry, leather, earth and tobacco flavors converge in this broad, savory red. Tightens up, with the sinewy tannins leaving their mark on the finish. The fruit returns, so give this a little time. Sangiovese and Merlot.

Vinous: 91 Points The 2022 Chianti Classico Ama opens with a burst of dark red cherry/plum fruit. Vibrant and generous, with bright acids, the Ama is an absolute delight. Its forward personality and impeccable balance make it a fine choice for drinking now and over the next decade or so. 

Winemaker Notes

92 Vinous: The 2018 Brut Nature Blanc de Noirs L'Arbre is such a pleasure to taste. Creamy and ample in the glass, the 2018 offers a compelling mix of Meunier richness and brighter, more saline accents that serve as an attractive counterpoint. Spice, dried pear, chamomile, dried flowers and ginger build nicely with time in the glass, leading to a vibrant, bracing finish. Disgorged: December, 2021.

Winemaker Notes

Producer Description 

The Caposaldo Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie  is a standout in the "value-party" category. Unlike many mass-produced magnums, Caposaldo maintains a surprisingly high quality by sourcing fruit from hand-harvested vineyards in the Veneto and Friuli regions of Northern Italy.

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.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points | Made from 60% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay and pouring a vibrant silver/yellow color, the 2018 Champagne Brut Vintage (like all these wines) was aged in stainless steel without any oak. In the glass, it opens to springy and dewy floral aromas of honeydew melon, fresh flowers, citrus blossoms, and pastry dough. Medium-bodied and inviting, it’s approachable now and takes on a more mineral character on the palate without ever feeling austere. All its components move seamlessly through the palate, with a refined mousse and a kiss of sunny feel on the finish nodding to the warmth of the vintage, but it’s clean and refined all the way through. This is going to improve with age, but it’s quite enjoyable now. Drink over the coming 15 or so years. It was made exclusively from Premier Cru and Grand Cru villages, was aged for 6 years on the lees, and saw 7-8 grams per liter dosage.

James Suckling 94 Points | I like the berry fruit aromas mingling with bread crust, grapefruit and lemon pastries. It's lively on the palate, with excellent structure and a bright wild-berry character. Clean and nicely focused. 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay.

Vinous 93 Points | The 2018 Brut Vintage is absolutely delicious, just as it was last year. Floral and citrus notes give the 2018 lovely aromatic lift to play off its mid-weight personality. This is a classy, polished Vintage Champagne marked by notable brightness. Airy, elegant and silky in feel, the 2018 is an absolute delight.

The Wine Advocate 93 Points | From a year marked by above-average maturity—at least as of this writing—and a relatively early harvest that began on August 20th, Pol Roger’s 2018 Brut Vintage, disgorged in March 2024 with a dosage of seven grams per liter, offers a generous and expressive interpretation of this cuvée. Aromatically, it unfurls from the glass with notes of pear, peach, orange zest and pastry, with a touch of exotic fruit. On the palate, it is full-bodied, muscular and textural, with a core of rich, sweet fruit supported by succulent yet vibrant acidity, culminating in a long, enveloping finish. Stylistically, the 2018 vintage aligns more closely with the gourmand profiles of 2015 and 2012 rather than the more tensile 2016 or 2013. The cuvée is composed of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | This sleek, mineral-driven Champagne has a lacy mousse and a smoky underpinning, with Meyer lemon peel–infused acidity driving an appealing range of flavors, including nectarine, macerated raspberry, saffron and crystallized honey, plus a touch of toasted brioche. Long and lively on the finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2035. 

Memo Notes

Pol Roger is one of the most highly respected and enduring Champagne houses, famous for its history, consistent quality, and, most notably, its legendary association with Sir Winston Churchill.

The house is known for producing Champagnes that embody finesse, elegance, and balance, with a fine, persistent mousse (bubbles). They are one of the few Grande Marque houses that remain family-owned and operated.

Winemaker Description 

Bottega Gold is a Prosecco DOC, obtained by the vinification of Glera grapes, grown on the Treviso hills. Thanks to its unmistakable golden bottle it has been defined as the "Glamour Sparkling".

Bright, straw yellow, fine and persistent perlage. Bouquet is typical and refined with fruity (green apples, pear, citrus fruits) and floral (white flowers, acacia, wisteria and lily of the valley) notes, sage and spices in the finish. Soft, harmonious and elegant, with a slim body and with lively yet balanced acidity.

BOTTEGA GOLD Prosecco DOC Spumante Brut is a luxurious sparkling wine made from Glera grapes harvested in the lush hills of Treviso. The beauty and tradition of this region are reflected in the elegance, freshness, and liveliness of its bubbles. Indulge in the variety of soils, exposures, and slopes that create the unique flavors of this premium Prosecco.

Production Area
Province of Treviso - Veneto

Chemical Characteristics
Alcohol: 11%
Sugars, g/l: 10-14
Acidity, g/l: 5.00-6.50

Color and Appearance
Bright, straw yellow, fine and persistent perlage.

Bouquet
Typical and refined with fruity (green apples, pear, citrus fruits) and floral (white flowers, acacia, wisteria and lily of the valley) notes, sage and spices in the finish.

Taste
Soft, harmonious and elegant, with a slim body and with lively yet balanced acidity.

Pairings
Excellent as an aperitif and for preparing cocktails, it is particularly suitable for appetizers, light first courses (such as pasta and risotto with fish or non-aromatic herbs), it accompanies second courses of steamed or raw fish, grilled white meats and even side dishes of stewed or fresh vegetables.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

Decanter 97 Points | A captivating perfume of dark cherry and berry fruit with smatterings of minty herbs propped up by a spine of capacious oak. Complex and weighty with absorbing tannins and a tremor of mouth-watering acidity. Outstanding.

Winemaker Description 

A deep, luminous ruby red in colour; concentrated and refined. The nose is a triumph of blackberry jam and blueberries–typical of the variety–with attractive and intense notes of cherries in brandy, carob and rose petals. Its traditionally-styled profile is further enhanced by liquorice and chocolate notes. This wine has a distinct creaminess on the palate, along with very powerful, mellow fruit. The finish is long and persistent, with precisely defined tannins of rare finesse, elegance and gentleness.

Winemaker Description 

Prefecture: Niigata • ABV: 15-16% • Rice: Goyaku Mangoku milled to 65% • Sake Meter Value: +6 • Acidity: 1.3

• Takes the concept of ‘everyday sake ‘ to new heights
• Dry, clean, light, notes of hazelnut and toasted rice.
• Can be served chilled, room temp or warmed
• Gohyaku Mangoku and Koshi Ibuki rice milled to 65%

While breweries love to showcase their premium ginjo styles Kirinzan take immense pride in their entry level ‘futsu-shu’ meant for everyday drinking. They use Gohyaku Mangoku and Koshi Ibuki sake rice polished to 65%, beyond 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. Made in the house style, it is dry, clean, light bodied, well balanced. Notes of hazelnut and toasted rice that makes it excellent both chilled or gently warmed.

Winemaker Description 

• Prefecture: Hyogo •  ABV: 12.5% •  Rice polished to 70% • Yeast: Proprietary •  Water: Mineral rich ‘Miyamizu’ spring water • SMV: -20 •  Acidity: 1.4

• A delicate, silky, unfiltered nigori sake. Off dry with a touch of sweetness but balanced at 12.5% ABV.
• Aroma of lily flowers and cantaloupes, smooth and creamy texture, flavors of Muscat grape and strawberries with a lingering finish.
• Rich and delicious, this pairs well with big flavors: spicy foods, BBQ, curries and even ice cream.

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.

Producer Description 

Lindeman's Bin 85 Pinot Grigio features a lovely amalgam of floral and tropical nuances with nashi pear and apple characters, finishing with grapefruit acidity that creates a clean and lengthy finish."

Expert Reviews 

James Suckling 98 Points | Made from old vines and blended from casks of Port averaging 40 years of maturity, this is a rare treat with which to finish an evening. The color is tawny brown, with a light orange-amber rim and mahogany center. Fully developed aromas of cinnamon, cedar, nutmeg, vanilla, dried apricots and hazelnuts lead to layered, rich, sweet and creamy flavors and a long, long finish.

Decanter 97 Points | Terrific stature and visceral intensity. Tightly wound acidity, a touch of volatile acidity and Cognac-like spirit drive to the kaleidoscopic palate, unleashing a never-ending panoply of flavors: black cardamom, spicy fruit chutney, salty praline, mocha, dried mango, marmalade and walnut. Ultra-long, well-focused and resonating.

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | The NV 40 Year Tawny is a blockbuster Tawny! Coming all from the estate vineyard and aged 40 years or more in 640-liter oak barrels, it has a touch of ranico-like character as well as beautiful caramelized fruits, toasted spice, cigar, and walnut/nuttiness. Ripe, heady, full-bodied and beautifully complex, it’s going to be perfect for sipping at the end of a meal over the coming couple of decades.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | This is exotic, with a wide range of baked peach, dried cherry and fig, singed cinnamon, warmed praline, hazelnut and green tea notes all swirling around together. The long finish is rich and  thoroughly comforting.

Winemaker Description

The weather in 1953 was very favourable to vine growth and the crop was both plentiful and of excellent quality.

The growing season began with a warm, wet April, followed by a very warm, but dry month of May.  June and July were cool and rainy, whereas August and September were dry and slightly warmer than average.

Flowering went very well in May because it did not rain very much. Even though June and July were cool, which slowed down the growth cycle somewhat, the harvest was able to begin on the 21st of September. The grapes were excellent because August and September we very dry and hot.  Yields were high, but 1953 Cheval Blanc shows that quantity and quality are not incompatible.
Degree of alcohol: 12°.

This is a great vintage for Cheval Blanc. The wine is very well-balanced and still elicits enormous praise.

Crafted primarily from vineyards in the Chassis sector, with additional fruit from the northern part of the appellation, Les Launes is Delas Frères’ classic expression of Crozes-Hermitage. The 2022 vintage delivers an immediately appealing yet structured Syrah, balancing ripe fruit with savory, Northern Rhône character. Medium-bodied with supple tannins and bright acidity, this wine is approachable now while still offering short-term aging potential. An outstanding value introduction to Northern Rhône Syrah.

Tasting Notes

Savory and expressive, with aromas of singed bacon, black pepper, and lavender layered over ripe red fruit. The palate is creamy yet fresh, driven by tangy acidity and finishing with notes of salt, iron, and subtle alder smoke.

Ratings

• Wine Spectator – 91 Points
  “A singed bacon note reverberates through this sanguine version, filled out with ripe red fruit on a creamy palate… bright and perfumy, edged in salt, iron and alder smoke.”

• Jeb Dunnuck – 90 Points
  “Charming and upfront, with perfumed red fruit, lavender, bouquet garni, and spicy, floral nuances. Medium-bodied, supple tannins, and a great finish.”

Our Professional Review 

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

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

Memo Summary Notes

The Chavy-Martin Mâcon-Chardonnay 2023 is a standout value from Burgundy, crafted by Alain Chavy and his son Corentin. 

Winemaker Description 

Renowned for its depth and complexity of flavor, Dassai Blue works exclusively with the “King of sake rice” Yamada Nishiki to produce Junmai Daiginjo, the highest grade sake in the world.

Our Type 50 is bottled three different ways to highlight not just the versatility of the rice, but also the exceptional level of craft that goes into every expression of Dassai Blue.

Tasting Notes: Aromas of pineapple and honeydew open to pineapple, lemon and sweet almond with a subtle caramel finish  Highest Grade | Junmai-Daiginjo sake Best Served: Chilled, 41 degree F (5°C) or below 

Memo Summary Notes 

The Dassai Blue 50 Junmai Daiginjo is the flagship entry-level sake from the state-of-the-art Dassai Blue brewery in Hyde Park, New York. Unlike the sparkling version we discussed earlier, this is a "still" sake (available in both pasteurized and unpasteurized Nama versions) designed to show the pure potential of New York spring water combined with premium Yamada Nishiki rice.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Somm Journal 95 Points | This is Pine Ridge’s flagship wine - a workhorse that features some Petite Sirah and sees both French and American oak. Tannins are teeth-kissing versus teeth-grabbing, while power and concentration are exhibited through a satin-lined mouthfeel that’s also juicy and fresh, with dark chocolate, plum, graphite, and sweet soil. The fruit shows balance between depth and restraint.

James Suckling 92 Points | Bright and lifted aromas of blueberries, blackcurrants, violets and raspberry coulis. The palate is medium-bodied with vibrant acidity, a textural mouthfeel and a finish of licorice, blackberries and bitter chocolate. Succulent and focused. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | Aged 18 months in 35% new French oak and 15% new American oak, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley sports a saturated purple hue as well as loads of black and blue fruits intermixed with leather, Asian spices, and hints of vanilla. It's medium to full-bodied, ripe, round, and mouthfilling, with sweet tannins and a good finish.

Winemaker Description 

Our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a combination of estate fruit from Stags Leap, Howell Mountain, Oakville, Rutherford and Carneros, and grapes from select Napa Valley growers with a focus on sourcing around our home in the Stags Leap District.

The 2023 growing season began with heavy winter rain, replenishing our reservoirs and lakes. Bud break was delayed due to a cooler than usual season, typically occurring once every 10 to 15 years. Despite this, we enjoyed a lengthy season with yields from average to 10% above average. With no disease pressure, increased soil water, and extended hang time, 2023 is destined to be legendary. Our vines thrived with healthy canopies, and the grapes ripened slowly, ensuring this “once-in-a-decade” vintage provided fruit that could perform at the apex of quality.

Since our founding in 1978, Pine Ridge Vineyards has invested in 160 acres of estate vineyards, 47 of which are in our home appellation, Stags Leap District. The fruit for this vintage was chosen from our premier sites set throughout the Napa Valley including our estates in Stags Leap, Howell Mountain, Oakville, Rutherford and Carneros. The 2023 vintage was harvested from September 29th to November 2nd. The grapes were hand-picked at night, carefully sorted in the vineyard, then brought to the cellar and de-stemmed. This meticulous care taken in the vineyard by our Viticulture Director Gustavo Avina and his crew delivered bright, ripe fruit, with substantial mouthfeel and complexity. Following a cold soak, a high-temperature fermentation occurred to ensure maximum flavor and color extraction. The wine was racked to 35% new French oak and 15% new American oak barrels and aged for 18 months prior to bottling. 50% was aged in neutral French Oak to maintain the freshness and elegance of the vintage.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

Wine Advocate 94 Points

Wine Spectator 94 Points | Rich and fleshy, with a supple texture, plus saturated flavors of cherry, raspberry, rose and mineral. 

James Suckling 93 Points.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Montebuoni is a bold, potent wine. 

Jancis Robinson 17/20 Points | Deep dark ruby with orange tinges. Rich, ripe cherry-compote nose with spice notes and just a suggestion of cinnamon bark.

Winemaker Description 

Serious, potent Tuscan red from 95% Sangiovese, 5% Merlot, known for concentrated dark fruit (blackberry, plum), leather, tobacco, earthy notes, and velvety tannins, offering intense flavor and aging potential, needing a few years to fully integrate but already showing excellent balance and complexity. It's a powerful expression of Sangiovese from a specific vineyard site, praised for its structure, long finish, and aging trajectory

Varietal: Primarily Sangiovese (95%) with a touch of Merlot (5%).
    •    Region: Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy.
    •    Flavor Profile: Blackberry, plum, raspberry, earthy notes, licorice, tobacco, leather, herbs, often with floral hints like rose.
    •    Texture: Rich, broad, velvety, firm tannins, medium to full-bodied.
    •    Aging: Recommended for cellaring for a few years to develop further, with potential to age well.
    •    Producer: Castello di Ama, a respected producer known for quality Chianti.
    •    Tasting Notes Summary:

Expect a wine with intense, concentrated dark fruit, balanced by savory complexity and structure. It's described as powerful and virile but also harmonious and elegant, with a long, persistent finish. 

Winemaker Description 

It is a garnet-red colored wine with a blue hue. Its scent of ripe fruit is dominated by black currants underlined with hints of spices and pepper. In the mouth, it is round and harmonious with long smooth tannins.

Memo Summary Notes

The Chateau de Campuget Tradition Rouge is a classic Southern Rhône red blend from the Costières de Nîmes AOC in France. Known for offering exceptional value, this wine is approachable, fruit-forward, and versatile.
This wine is a natural partner for grilled meats, roasted lamb, or hearty Mediterranean stews. It also pairs well with aged cheeses and charcuterie.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Stunning and sleek, with intensity and precision to the citrus, pear and white peach flavors. Offers notes of orange blossom and jasmine, with notes of fresh-cut Fuji apple and buttery shortbread on the mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2034. 300 cases imported.

James Suckling 93 Points | A sleek, mid-weighted & very contemporary chardonnay, embellishing a pungent mineral chassis with roasted cashew, nougat and curdy creaminess. Vanilla-cedar oak, an integrated framework. Apricot pith, white peach and nectarine, too. The acidity, palpably natural of feel and really juicy, towing impressive length. One of the better recent iterations of this rightly popular cuvee. 

The Australian Wine Companion 93 Points | A sleek, mid-weighted & highly contemporary chardonnay, embellishing a pungent mineral chassis with roasted cashew, nougat and curdy creaminess. Vanilla-cedar oak, an integrated framework. Apricot pith, white peach and nectarine, too. The acidity, palpably natural of feel and really juicy, towing impressive length. Among the better recent iterations of this rightly popular cuvée.

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The 2022 M3 Chardonnay is nutty and spiced on the nose, with green apple, crushed cashews, citrus rind and brine. The wine is, true to form, polished, sleek and flavorsome. This is a bit of a cherished wine in Australia; it is reliable and classy, and this vintage is no exception. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Memo Pairing Suggestions 

Food Pairings: Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken with thyme, grilled scallops in lemon butter, or creamy pasta primavera.