2010 - Present Wine

Exceptional Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

Belle Glos Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir 2022 is a stunning expression from one of California's most prestigious wine regions. The vineyard name "Las Alturas" translates to "the heights," reflecting its elevated position on the highest grape-growing benches in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, reaching up to 1,200 feet. This lofty elevation creates a unique microclimate where sunny days meet cool coastal breezes, producing a wine that is robust, expressive, full-bodied, and beautifully balanced by firm acidity.

Expert Reviews & Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast - 93 Points: "Deep and dark aromas of black cherry, sandalwood and incense make for a heady nose on this bottling. The palate is big and bold, loaded with ripe black cherry and boysenberry flavors, as peppery, incense-like spices add complexity and the texture stays lusciously creamy."

Artisanal Winemaking Process

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the grapes were harvested in the early morning to preserve vineyard-fresh flavors. After destemming without crushing, the berries underwent a two-week cold soak to soften skins and optimize extraction. Fermentation took place in a combination of closed and open-top stainless steel fermenters, using both punch-downs and pump-overs to extract color, tannins, and maximize flavors. The wine was aged in 100% French oak (60% new) for up to nine months, followed by malolactic fermentation and two rackings before final blending.

Tasting Profile & Sensory Experience

This wine displays a rich crimson color that hints at its depth and complexity. The nose opens with fragrant aromas of Bing cherry, dried fig, black cassis, and hints of rich dark chocolate, complemented by sandalwood and incense notes. On the palate, discover bold and elegant flavors of marionberry pie, boysenberry preserves, dark plum, and subtle mocha, with peppery spices adding layers of complexity. The lusciously creamy texture is balanced by beautiful acidity that carries through to a long, mouthwatering finish.

Perfect Food Pairings

Belle Glos Las Alturas Pinot Noir's versatility makes it an exceptional companion to a wide range of dishes. Pair it with roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto for classic combinations. It also complements lamb chops, beef tenderloin, pork loin, wild game, or aged cheeses beautifully. For vegetarian options, try it with truffle pasta, eggplant parmesan, or roasted root vegetables. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or a festive celebration, this wine elevates any culinary experience.

Santa Lucia Highlands Terroir

The Las Alturas Vineyard benefits from the exceptional terroir of the Santa Lucia Highlands, where elevation, diverse soil types, and coastal influence combine to create wines of remarkable complexity and depth. The vineyard is meticulously cared for, ensuring only the finest grapes make it into each bottle. This commitment to quality and the unique characteristics of the region result in a Pinot Noir that truly captures the essence of one of California's most celebrated wine-growing areas.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

Jeb Dunnuck 98+ Points | "Incredibly elegant yet concentrated 2021 that does everything right." Purple-hued, with ample cassis, wild sage, graphite, and darker chocolate aromatics. Picks up a Graves-like gravelly earth character with air. Full-bodied with ripe, polished tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Needs 4–5 years of bottle age but will drink well for 30 years.

James Suckling 98 Points | Intense aromas of iodine, blackcurrants, cedar, sandalwood and mint. Medium to full body with silky tannins that spread across the palate and expand in a balanced, harmonized way. Hints of chocolate and tar. Better in a few years — try 2027 and beyond.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | Packed with dark, winey flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry paste underscored with alder, sweet tobacco, warm paving stone and black licorice. Violet accent fills the background. Polished finish makes it accessible now, with plenty of life ahead. Drink now through 2042. — Wine Spectator’s #2 Wine of the Year 2024.

Winemaker Notes

A truly remarkable vintage of BV’s iconic flagship. The bouquet is intense with wild sage, blackcurrant, cedar, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied with layers of ripe blackberry, redcurrant, and red rose petal alongside graphite, licorice root, gravelly stone, and dark chocolate. French oak aging adds sandalwood, clove, and Ceylon cinnamon. The signature "Rutherford Dust" tannins are silky, polished, and fine-grained, finishing long with a cocoa powder texture.

Slightly reserved upon release but incredibly drinkable — significant presence, depth, and concentration foreshadowing cellar-worthy potential across the next few decades.

Tasting & Pairings

Cassis, wild sage, graphite, dark chocolate, blackberry, cedar, sandalwood, and Rutherford Dust. Full-bodied with polished, fine-grained tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2042+.

• Prime rib or dry-aged ribeye — the wine’s concentration and tannin structure demand equally serious beef.
• Braised lamb shank with herbs — the sage and cedar notes mirror herbed, slow-cooked meats.
• Dark chocolate truffles — the cocoa powder finish and chocolate aromatics are a decadent match.

Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2022

Freemark Abbey is one of Napa Valley’s most historic estates — a winery with roots stretching back to 1886 and a reputation built on classic, terroir-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaker Kristy Melton sources from a diverse portfolio of estate vineyards and carefully selected purchased fruit across multiple Napa appellations and elevations — including the legendary Bosché Vineyard, Orchard Vineyard, Red Hen Vineyard, Colline, Henrickson, Carpenter, Red Barn Ranch, Castle Rock, and Atalon — to craft a wine that is classic, balanced, and genuinely complex. The 2022 vintage produced approximately 11,000 cases, with a blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Merlot, aged 20 months in French oak with 47% new barrels. Harvest ran from August 13th through October 14th, 2022. Alcohol: 14.5%. pH: 3.66.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is classic and inviting: dark chocolate, black forest fruits, oak spices, leather, and cedar, with bright aromas of ripe cherries and sunny strawberries adding lift and freshness. On the palate, it is full-bodied and soft — blueberry compote, espresso, olive, dried herbs, and black pepper, with fresh red currants and light baking spices woven through a velvety, well-structured mid-palate. The tannins are integrated and approachable, making it enjoyable now while remaining capable of cellaring well for years to come.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter — 92 Points (Jonathan Cristaldi, Jul 2025)

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Bright aromas, ripe flavors, a full body but rather light tannins give this wine an easy drinkability. Red cherries and sunny strawberries on the nose, then a palate of good acidity with fresh red currants and light baking spices. Drink or hold.”

Wine Advocate — 90 Points
“Cedar and mocha shadings accent ripe cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is soft and velvety. Forward and probably not meant for the cellar, this is still a tasty wine, with just a hint of dried fruit on the finish.”

• Producer: Freemark Abbey, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Vineyards: Bosché, Orchard, Red Hen, Colline, Henrickson, Carpenter, Red Barn Ranch, Castle Rock, Atalon
• Blend: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Merlot
• Aging: 20 months in French oak, 47% new
• Alcohol: 14.5% | pH: 3.66
• Production: ~11,000 cases
• Style: Classic, balanced, multi-vineyard Napa Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, black forest fruit, cedar, blueberry compote, espresso, red currant, integrated tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2032+
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roast lamb, wild mushrooms, aged hard cheeses

One of Napa’s most storied addresses — Freemark Abbey 2022 is classic, balanced, and built for the table.

Commanderie de Peyrassol | Cuvée des Commandeurs | Côtes de Provence Rosé | 2025 | 750ml

Few estates in Provence carry a history as remarkable as Peyrassol. Located in the heart of the appellation, the Commanderie was founded by the Knights Templar in the early Middle Ages — the first recorded grape harvest here dates to 1256. When the Templars were dissolved in 1311, the Knights of Malta assumed stewardship, maintaining the vineyards with characteristic precision until the French Revolution. The Rigord family purchased the estate in 1870, and today Françoise Rigord — who has been making wine here since 1981 — continues alongside her son François. Nearly eight centuries of uninterrupted winemaking, and the Cuvée des Commandeurs remains the estate's most beloved bottle.

Pale and luminous in the glass, this is quintessential Provence rosé: delicate, dry, and effortlessly elegant. Expect fresh strawberry, white peach, and citrus zest on the nose, with a clean, mineral-driven palate and a crisp, refreshing finish. This is the wine that spring and summer were made for.

Serve well chilled alongside black olives, tomato-based dishes, grilled fish, ratatouille, or a simple spread of Provençal charcuterie.

• Appellation: Côtes de Provence AOC, France
• Blend: Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah (traditional Provence blend)
• Style: Dry, pale rosé
• Vintage: 2025
• Serve: Well chilled, 8–10°C
• Pairs with: Grilled fish, ratatouille, tomato dishes, black olives, Provençal charcuterie

About L’Arbre

L’Arbre is Vincent Cuillier’s most personal wine — a single-parcel Champagne from Les Voyets, the family’s most historic vineyard in the Marne village of Pouillon. The name “L’Arbre” (The Tree) is a direct nod to Cuillier’s extensive work planting trees and cultivating biodiversity across the estate through natural viticulture and vitiforestry.

Made exclusively as a zero-dosage vintage Champagne from 100% Pinot Meunier, this is a wine of remarkable depth and precision — a testament to Cuillier’s deft hand in both the vines and the cellar.

Tasting Notes

Plump, forward berry fruit — red cherry, wild strawberry, and a hint of brioche — kept in elegant check by crisp acidity and fine, complex mineral-driven lines. The zero dosage reveals the wine’s true character: pure, taut, and long on the finish. A Blanc de Noirs of genuine cellar-worthiness.

In the Cellar

Indigenous yeast fermentation in small stainless steel tanks, followed by a full year of tank aging. This vintage cuvée spends the requisite 36 months sur lattes before being hand-disgorged with zero dosage. No fining, no filtration.

Food Pairings

• Oysters, sea urchin, and raw shellfish
• Charcuterie, aged ham, and mushroom dishes
• Soft-ripened cheeses (Brie, Camembert)
• Roasted chicken or guinea fowl

About Vincent Cuillier

Vincent Cuillier is a grower-producer based in Pouillon in the Marne Valley, farming his family’s historic parcels with a deep commitment to natural viticulture and vitiforestry — an approach that integrates trees and biodiversity into the vineyard ecosystem. His wines are made with minimal intervention: indigenous fermentations, no fining or filtration, and zero dosage across the range. L’Arbre represents the pinnacle of his work.

Product Details

• Producer: Vincent Cuillier
• Cuvée: L’Arbre Blanc de Noirs
• Style: Brut Nature (Zero Dosage)
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Meunier
• Vintage: 2022 (Disgorged)
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Village: Pouillon, Marne, France
• Parcel: Les Voyets
• Farming: Natural viticulture / Vitiforestry
• Vinification: Indigenous yeast, stainless steel, 36 months sur lattes, hand-disgorged
• Dosage: Zero (Brut Nature)
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Closure: Cork & Cage

93 Points Wine Enthusiast: The newer ownership of this historic brand is doing a solid job of keeping the Rhône vibe and mission alive. This blend of 69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsaut and 2% Petite Sirah offers fresh red currant aromas that are layered in earth and herb elements. The palate pairs raspberry and strawberry flavors with fennel pollen and cracked pepper, making for a very drinkable glass. — Matt Kettmann

Varietals:
69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsault, 2% Petite Sirah

AVA: Central Coast, CA

ABV: 14.5%

Tasting: The '23 Cigare is expressive. Wild strawberry, rhubarb, black pepper, and tobacco make this an easy-drinking, elegant choice.

Winemaker Notes: "The fruit is carefully selected to ensure its full potential of ripeness with balanced chemistry, and as usual for Cigare, Grenache is the star of the show. As we all know, Grenache grown in relatively cool sites in coastal California has a growing season long enough for it to create the spicy, peppery quality that we love so much and expect to taste in Cigare. We included, as is our wont, some wonderful Cinsault, a rather plump and juicy grape, which was signee to a fare-thee0well, to increase the concentration of this lightly colored and structured grape. The wine was aged in stainless steel tank and bottled ten months after harvest to preserve freshness and vibrancy." -Randall Grahm (Director of Winemaking/Founder) 

Story: In 1954, the village council of Chateauneuf-du-Pape was quite perturbed and apprehensive that flying saucers or "flying cigares" might do damage to their vineyards, were they to land therin. So right-thinking men all, they passed an ordinance prohibiting the landing of flying saucers or flying cigares in their vineyards. The ordinance further states that flying saucers or flying cigares that did land were to be taken immediately to the pound.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | Pale salmon in color, this Languedoc rosé opens with delicate aromas of fresh strawberry, peach blossom, and rose petal. Crisp and refreshing on the palate with bright citrus and red berry flavors, balanced acidity, and a clean, elegant finish.

Winemaker Description

Côte des Roses Rosé is crafted from organically farmed Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah grown in the sun-drenched vineyards of Languedoc. Pale pink with shimmering reflections, it opens with an expressive bouquet of rose petals, fresh strawberry, and white peach. On the palate it is round, fresh, and beautifully balanced — a quintessential expression of southern French rosé.

Pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, light salads, fresh goat cheese, and Mediterranean appetizers. The iconic rose-embossed bottle makes this half bottle an elegant gift or aperitif choice.

Product Information

Producer | Gerard Bertrand

Appellation | Languedoc AOP, France

Grapes | Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah

Vintage | 2024

Bottle Size | 375ml (Half Bottle)

Alcohol | 12.5%

Style | Rosé, Dry, Organic

Tasting Notes

An expression of crisp freshness, the Teperberg Inspire Art Series Dabouki is produced from old vines rooted for over 70 years. Expect a clean, vibrant palate with delicate citrus and stone fruit notes, lively acidity, and a pure, refreshing finish — a rare and captivating showcase of an indigenous Israeli grape.

About the Wine

The Dabouki grape — historically used for Arak or table grapes — is being rediscovered by top Israeli winemakers for its unique desert-friendly profile. This wine is a collaboration between Teperberg Winery, Israel's oldest family-owned winery, and internationally renowned street artist Dede, whose iconic graffiti adorns cities from Tel Aviv to major capitals worldwide.

Dede began painting his signature band-aids as a response to PTSD from military service. The heart-shaped band-aid on the capsule symbolizes healing and hope — making this bottle as meaningful as it is beautiful, and a standout gift or conversation piece for any holiday table.

Food Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted vegetables, light pasta, and cheese boards. Versatile and food-friendly for any occasion.

Product Details

• Appellation: Israel
• Varietal: Dabouki
• Vine Age: 70+ years
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Certification: Kosher
• Producer: Teperberg Winery

Expert Review — Vintage 2021

Vinous 92 Points | A blend of Chardonnay, Welschriesling and Sauvignon Blanc from the younger vines of the estate (~15 years old). Gentle nuttiness and a touch of tatami mat on the nose, very subtle and calm. With air, a hint of butter emerges. The palate is all clarity, all lightness and all brightness on a super-slender frame that is soothing and smooth. Bone-dry.

About the Wine

Velich Tó White takes its name from the Hungarian word for "lake" — a nod to the estate’s proximity to Neusiedlersee in Burgenland, Austria. The Tó cuvée is sourced from the estate’s younger vines (15–25 years old) and blends Chardonnay, Welschriesling, and Sauvignon Blanc into a wine of remarkable purity and restraint.

Velich is one of Burgenland’s most respected producers, known for precision winemaking and a deep connection to terroir.

Tasting & Pairings

Gentle nuttiness, tatami mat, butter, orchard fruit, and citrus. Super-slender, bone-dry, and soothing with bright clarity and a smooth finish. Serve well chilled.

• Seafood — oysters, ceviche, or grilled branzino — the wine’s slender frame and acidity are ideal.
• Roasted chicken with herbs — the subtle nuttiness and butter notes complement poultry beautifully.
• Soft-ripened cheese or fresh burrata — the bone-dry finish cleanses the palate between bites.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Decanter 96 Points | Super-fresh with balsamic herb, blueberry and floral aromatics, Guidalberto 2023 has blossomed into a grand vin all of its own. Invigorating cool forest berry flavours mingle with touches of spice and fine, silky tannins. So poised. Wow!"
Decanter Magazine 

James Suckling 96 Points | This vintage shows a remarkable aromatic profile of Mediterranean herbs, cassis, black cherries, leather and earth with a kind of gamey depth. Full-bodied, it shows velvety, slightly sandy tannins with a firm structure, refreshing integrated acidity and a savory cedar finish.

The Wine Enthusiast 94 Points | On the nose, the density of blackberries and damp earth is balanced by the clean snap of pencil eraser and wild mint. The palate brings tangy, tart blackberries, black plums and citrus, alongside more wild mint and fennel, while smooth tannins sit back and watch a hot, acidic river carry the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 92-94 Points | The 2023 Guidalberto was tasted as a preview and was a preliminary blend of barrel samples prepared for this tasting by the winery team, led by Carlo Paoli. The second sample that was blended was pure and ripe, with detailed layers of youthful cherry liqueur, fresh herbs, and lavender perfume. The palate offers medium to full-bodied richness, with a supple and primary feel, though it starts to reveal its underlying refined structure. While this was an early preliminary look at what the wine could look like, I’m looking forward to next year’s tasting to see how it develops. 

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Pure and juicy, revealing black cherry, blackberry, floral and Mediterranean herb notes, plus touches of spices. Light-bodied, elegant and deftly balanced, with a lingering, mouthwatering finish. This is approachable now but will benefit from another 612 months aging. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2032. 5,400 cases imported.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Guidalberto is another terrific wine from Tenuta San Guido in this vintage. Aromatic, medium in body and gracious, the 2023 is pure charm. Crushed flowers, bright red-toned fruit, spice and blood orange all pulse through a vibrant, refreshing Guidalberto that will drink well on release. The more refined side of Bolgheri is very much on display. This is a fine effort in a year marked by heavy rains and elevated disease pressure. What a delight.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2023 Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto is a highly acclaimed release from the legendary estate behind Sassicaia. Often called "Sassicaia’s little brother," Guidalberto is a distinct, standalone wine designed to be more approachable in its youth while still possessing the elegance of Bolgheri's coastal terroir.

In 2023, the blend shifted slightly due to a hot start to August that made the Merlot more challenging to manage. As a result, the Cabernet Sauvignon plays a more dominant role than in recent previous years.

Winemaker Description 

This Reserva Carmenere is a soft representation of the notoriously hard-to-ripen Carmenere grape. In order to keep the wine’s fruity flavor, the clusters are picked from older vines in the Maipo Valley, and the juice is fermented at low temperatures.

The Casa Julia has a nose of black fruit and a pronounced vegetable note, like a green bell pepper. Blueberry and blackberry flavors mingle with a hint of earth and tannins in this full-bodied red wine.

This Carmenère pairs well with a wide range of dishes, from grilled pork loin and blackened chicken to steak salad with roasted peppers

Discover Domaine de La Solitude Pessac-Léognan Blanc 2023, an exceptional white Bordeaux that showcases the finest expression of the Pessac-Léognan appellation. This wine has garnered outstanding critical acclaim, with multiple scores in the 90+ range from the world's most respected wine critics. Crafted from grapes grown on gravel soils with cooler clays, this estate wine represents the perfect balance of fruit, freshness, and elegance that defines great white Bordeaux.

Exceptional Critical Acclaim - 2023 Vintage

James Suckling - 94 Points
"More savory and creamy than fruity, showing gooseberries, guavas and sliced apples. Fresh and round with medium body and a textured, long finish. Good energy, with a saline twist at the end. Nice phenolics and density at the end. Drink now or hold."

Jeb Dunnuck - 93 Points (91-93)
"The 2023 Domaine De La Solitude (Pessac-Léognan) Blanc will certainly be outstanding. Based on 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Semillon, it has bright, minty herbs, citrus, and honeyed pineapple-like aromas and flavors as well as a medium-bodied, round, plush, beautifully textured style on the palate."

The Wine Independent - 92 Points (90-92)
"The 2023 Domaine de la Solitude Blanc races out of the glass with expressive scents of fresh grapefruit, crunchy peaches, and Bosc pears leading to hints of beeswax and sea spray. The medium-bodied palate is silky, with great intensity of orchard fruit flavors and a racy backbone, finishing with great length."

Decanter - 91 Points
"Earlier harvest to preserve acidity from this estate with gravel soils but thankfully cooler clays as well, resulting in an easy-going wine not without some warmth, but marked by ripe pear, peach, orange zest and lemon, more fruit forward than complex – and a pleasure to drink."

Wine Advocate - 90 Points (88-90)
"The Domaine de la Solitude 2023 Blanc exudes aromas of confit citron, lemon, verbena and white fruits. Medium-bodied, supple and juicy, it's perfectly balanced with a long, delicate and perfumed finish."

Vinous Media - 90 Points
"The 2023 Domaine de la Solitude Blanc has a cohesive and focused bouquet with green apple, kiwi fruit and light, pithy pear aromas that are neatly knitted together by the oak. The palate is a more textural white with a keen line of acidity, vibrant and fresh with a dab of ginger toward the finish."

Grape Blend

Composition: 65% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Sémillon
This classic Pessac-Léognan white blend combines Sauvignon Blanc's vibrant aromatics and acidity with Sémillon's richness and texture.

Tasting Profile

Aroma: Expressive scents of fresh grapefruit, crunchy peaches, Bosc pears, gooseberries, guavas, sliced apples, bright minty herbs, citrus, honeyed pineapple, confit citron, lemon, verbena, white fruits, green apple, kiwi fruit, pithy pear, ripe pear, peach, orange zest, hints of beeswax and sea spray
Palate: Medium-bodied, fresh and round. Savory and creamy. Silky with great intensity of orchard fruit flavors. Round, plush, beautifully textured style. Supple and juicy, perfectly balanced. More textural white with keen line of acidity, vibrant and fresh. Good energy with nice phenolics and density
Finish: Textured, long finish with a saline twist at the end. Great length. Long, delicate and perfumed finish. Dab of ginger toward the finish

Pessac-Léognan Terroir

From an estate with gravel soils and cooler clays, this wine benefits from the unique terroir of Pessac-Léognan. Earlier harvest preserves acidity, resulting in an easy-going wine marked by freshness and balance. The combination of gravel and clay soils provides both drainage and moisture retention, creating ideal conditions for producing exceptional white Bordeaux.

Winemaking Excellence

The grapes are carefully selected and the wine is neatly knitted together by oak aging, which adds texture and complexity without overwhelming the fruit. The winemaking approach preserves the natural acidity and vibrant character of the grapes while developing the wine's textural qualities and depth.

Aging Potential

Drink Window: Drink now or hold
This wine offers both immediate pleasure and aging potential. It's a pleasure to drink now with its fruit-forward character, yet has the structure and balance to develop further complexity with cellaring.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This versatile white Bordeaux pairs beautifully with:

• Seafood and shellfish
• Grilled fish
• Poultry and white meats
• Creamy cheeses
• Salads with citrus vinaigrette
• Asian cuisine
• Light pasta dishes
• Oysters and raw bar

Outstanding White Bordeaux

The 2023 Domaine de La Solitude Blanc will certainly be outstanding, representing exceptional value in white Pessac-Léognan. With its cohesive and focused bouquet, racy backbone, and perfectly balanced palate, this wine showcases why Pessac-Léognan is one of Bordeaux's premier appellations for white wine. The combination of critical acclaim, classic blend, and distinctive terroir makes this a must-have for white Bordeaux enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Domaine de La Solitude Pessac-Leognan Blanc 2023 750ml

Walt Pinot Noir Blue Jay Anderson Valley 2024 375ml Half Bottle

Experience the elegance of Walt Pinot Noir Blue Jay, a remarkable wine that embodies the spirit and charm of California's Anderson Valley. The 2024 vintage showcases the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle, delivering a distinctive, character-driven Pinot Noir with exceptional quality. This half bottle offers the perfect amount for intimate gatherings or a personal treat, making it an ideal choice for both new wine enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

Critical Acclaim - 92 Points Vinous

Vinous - 92 Points (2023 Vintage)
"The 2023 Pinot Noir Blue Jay hails from the Anderson Valley. It delivers a dusty, floral, blue-fruited profile with enticing richness and a deep well of minerality. Black-tea-like tannins grab hold of the tongue on the lengthy finish as the Blue Jay leaves behind a mouthwatering touch of citrusy bite. I like the character and distinctiveness here."

Walt Wines - California Pinot Noir Excellence

Walt Wines is dedicated to crafting exceptional Pinot Noir from California's premier wine regions. With a focus on terroir-driven winemaking and meticulous attention to detail, Walt produces distinctive wines that showcase the unique characteristics of each vineyard site. The Blue Jay bottling represents their commitment to quality and character.

Anderson Valley Terroir

The Anderson Valley is renowned for producing some of California's finest Pinot Noir. Located in Mendocino County, this cool-climate region benefits from coastal fog and marine influence, creating ideal conditions for Pinot Noir to develop complex flavors, bright acidity, and elegant structure. The valley's unique terroir imparts distinctive minerality and character to the wines.

Distinctive Flavor Profile

Aroma: Dusty, floral, blue-fruited profile. Dark cherry, raspberry, and subtle hints of oak
Palate: Enticing richness with a deep well of minerality. Notes of dark cherry, raspberry, and subtle oak. Luscious and complex taste experience. Balance between fruitiness and earthiness. Bright acidity and soft tannins
Finish: Black-tea-like tannins grab hold of the tongue on the lengthy finish. Mouthwatering touch of citrusy bite. Smooth finish that lingers with elegance

Character & Distinctiveness

As Vinous notes, "I like the character and distinctiveness here." The Blue Jay bottling delivers a dusty, floral, blue-fruited profile that sets it apart from typical Pinot Noir. The deep well of minerality and black-tea-like tannins create a wine with personality and presence, making it memorable and distinctive.

2024 Vintage Quality

The 2024 vintage showcases the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Walt Pinot Noir. This vintage continues the tradition of quality and character that has earned Walt critical acclaim, delivering a wine that is both elegant and distinctive.

Ideal Food Pairing Suggestions

Walt Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Its bright acidity and soft tannins make it an excellent complement to:

• Grilled salmon and seafood
• Mushroom risotto and earthy dishes
• Roasted duck and poultry
• Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese
• Pork tenderloin
• Charcuterie boards
• Roasted vegetables

Versatile Wine for Any Occasion

The balance between fruitiness and earthiness makes this Pinot Noir a versatile choice for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a quiet evening or entertaining guests. The wine's fruit-forward profile harmonizes with savory flavors, allowing each bite and sip to elevate the meal.

Perfect Half Bottle Format

The 375ml half bottle is perfectly sized for:

• Personal enjoyment and sampling
• Intimate gatherings and romantic dinners
• Trying new wines without full bottle commitment
• Pairing with smaller meals
• Picnics and outdoor dining
• Gift giving for wine lovers
• Building a diverse wine collection

Artistry in Every Detail

The packaging of the Walt Pinot Noir Blue Jay 2024 half bottle reflects the artistry and care that goes into its making. The attractive design not only captures attention but also ensures freshness, preserving the exquisite flavors every time you pour a glass.

Deep Well of Minerality

One of the defining characteristics of the Blue Jay bottling is its deep well of minerality, a hallmark of Anderson Valley terroir. This mineral character adds complexity and depth, creating layers of flavor that evolve in the glass and on the palate.

Mouthwatering Finish

The mouthwatering touch of citrusy bite on the finish keeps the palate engaged and refreshed. Combined with the black-tea-like tannins and lengthy finish, this wine delivers a complete and satisfying tasting experience from start to finish.

A Staple for Wine Lovers

This versatility and distinctive character make Walt Pinot Noir Blue Jay a staple for any wine lover's collection. Whether you're celebrating a special moment or indulging in a cozy night at home, this wine promises to deliver a memorable experience with its elegant balance, rich minerality, and distinctive Anderson Valley character.

Winemaker Description 

Dark garnet in color. This Carménère has aromas of black plum, rich soil, toasted vanilla, and licorice. Fruity with dried raspberry, tar, roasted cherry, white pepper, black licorice, and a moderate oakiness. The tannins are soft and silky with a warming medium-length finish.

This Carmenere is sourced from two sections of Invina Batuco vineyard in the Maule Valley of Chile. The Batuco Vineyard is a thirty-year-old vineyard site that is own-rooted and situated in a small sub-valley on the eastern side of coastal mountains.

• This Carménère is sourced from two sections of the Invina Batuco vineyard in the Maule Valley of Chile. The Carménère grapes with their flavor of black fruit, herbal notes and soft tannins are blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to add a spicy red fruit characteristic, and Syrah to include notes of red licorice.
• The Batuco Vineyard is a thirty-year-old vineyard site that is own-rooted and situated in a small sub-valley on the eastern side of coastal mountains. The strong marine influence makes for long growing seasons and ripening conditions for Carménère.

• Fitz Roy is a collaboration between Elixir Wine Group and Chile’s Alex Huber of Invina Wines with the intention of bringing you hand crafted, terroir-driven, sustainably farmed Chilean varietal wine with unbelievable pricing.
• Named after the highest mountain in Patagonia, whose granite flanks stand as a sentinel between Argentina and Chile.
• Wines are produced at the Invina winery in Maule and are sourced from Invina’s sustainably farmed vineyard sites.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Jesica Vargas writes 90 Points |  Delicate sweet notes of nectarine introduce this lively wine. The palate offers white fruit flavors, balanced by moderate acidity, leading to a crisp finish.  

Winemaker Description 

An attractive greenish-yellow colour. Its ageing in foudres has lent it citrus and green chilli pepper aromas, as well as saline notes. In the mouth, it is very structured and tense thanks to its high acidity and minerality. The finish is clean and persistent, with a subtle saline note coming through. This highly complex Sauvignon Blanc tempts you to enjoy it with food.

Block 22 is located on the first terrace of the river Huasco. It has very old, stony soils from the river which have very special qualities: a little clay and a lot of calcareous soil – lime, calcium carbonate – white soils. Characterized by low yields of grapes with very concentrated fresh fruit. In the Atacama Desert in the Huasco valley, the temperatures were fresh, especially at night. Temperatures are kept low because of the constant cool morning breezes blowing in from the Pacific Ocean, as well as the classic “Camanchaca”, a dense fog which comes in from the ocean, helping to regulate the temperatures and ensure an optimum level of humidity in the atmosphere.

Memo Summary Notes

The Ventisquero Grey Glacier Sauvignon Blanc 2023 from the Longomilla Vineyard is a highly distinctive wine that pushes the boundaries of Chilean viticulture. Grown in the Atacama Desert—the driest place on Earth—this wine is defined by "extreme" conditions, resulting in a profile that is far more saline and mineral than your typical New Zealand or Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc.

Pair with

The Perfect Match: Fresh oysters, sea urchins, or ceviche. The salinity in the wine acts like a squeeze of lime on fresh seafood.

The Perfect Match: Fresh oysters, sea urchins, or ceviche. The salinity in the wine acts like a squeeze of lime on fresh seafood.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

Aromatically complex yet still anchored, the balance between lemon blossom lift and citrus acidity is beautifully woven. Flavors of white grapefruit, papaya, fennel bulb, and tarragon mingle seamlessly, and resolve in a savory, mineral finish."  -Brian Freedman  93 points, Tasting Panel 

“Sliced pears, lemon pith, jasmine and mineral nuances on the nose. The medium-bodied palate is textured yet crunchy, with lively acidity coming through. Flavorful and sleek."  -Jim Gordon   91 points, JamesSuckling.com

“Peach, apricot and lemon curd flavors are generous, plump and juicy in this white, with plenty of oomph to the details of tangerine, orange zest and lemon thyme that linger on a mouthwatering frame. -MaryAnn Worobiec  90 points, Wine Spectator

Winemaker Description 

Gramona Imperial — Corpinnat, Catalonia 2018

Gramona is the crown jewel of Corpinnat — the prestigious breakaway appellation of the Penèdes committed to the highest standards of traditional-method sparkling wine production in Spain. Founded in 1881 and farming biodynamically for decades, Gramona produces wines of extraordinary depth, precision, and longevity that stand comfortably alongside the finest Champagnes in the world. The Imperial is Gramona's flagship expression: a vintage-dated Brut aged on the lees for a minimum of five years, crafted from a blend of the great indigenous Catalan varieties led by Xarel·lo. The 2018 vintage is particularly notable — a cooler, wetter year that produced a wine of exceptional freshness and fine-boned structure, with the kind of calibrated acidity that will reward further cellaring.

The bouquet is elegant and complex after 60 months on the lees: lime and lemon pie lead, complemented by a delicate array of fine herbs, brioche, and a subtle autolytic creaminess. On the palate, it is dry and creamy with an ethereal, flowing texture enlivened by calibrated acidity. Refreshing and joyful, with a long, mineral-driven finish — this is sparkling wine of genuine distinction.

🏆 Vinous 91 Points — "The bouquet features aromas of lime and lemon pie, complemented by a delicate array of fine herbs. Dry and creamy on the palate, the ethereal flow is enlivened by calibrated acidity. Refreshing and joyful, this sparkling wine is a delight."

• Producer: Gramona, Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penèdes, Catalonia, Spain
• Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Corpinnat
• Method: Mètode Tradicional (Traditional Method)
• Blend: 56% Xarel·lo, 30% Macabeo, 10% Parellada, 4% Chardonnay
• Aging: 60 months on the lees
• Style: Brut
• Size: 750ml
• Vintage Note: Cooler, wetter year — exceptional freshness and fine-boned structure
• Tasting Notes: Lime, lemon pie, fine herbs, brioche, creamy texture, calibrated acidity, mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled monkfish, scallops, lobster, roast poultry, Ibérico ham, mature Manchego, Comté

Five years on the lees, one of Spain's greatest sparkling wine houses — Gramona Imperial 2018 is a Corpinnat benchmark of rare elegance and freshness.

Tasting Notes

Our LIGHT Chardonnay is a fresh yet soft style with subtle hints of oak that give the wine a sweet finish. With flavors of lemon, apple, ripe apricot and offering a guilt free indulgence without compromising on taste or quality.

Naturally lower sugars yield less alcohol allowing our winemakers to achieve 9% ABV with minimal alcohol extraction post fermentation.

Wine Analysis

• Blend: 100% Chardonnay
• Winemaking Notes: Fermented and aged in combination of stainless steel and neutral American oak. 100% malolactic
• TA: 0.58g/100mL
• PH: 3.48
• Average analysis per 5 oz: 80 calories, 2.1g carbs, 0g protein, 0g fat, gluten free
• Alcohol: 9.0%

Expert Reviews - 2022

James Sucklling 92 Points | Absurdly concentrated for an entry-level wine. Deep blueberry and black-cherry fruit fills out the compact and structured medium-bodied palate. Generous fine tannins and notes of licorice and baking-spice aromas. Long, powdery and fresh finish. This is a unique solera-type blend of several vintages from 2022 to 2012. Blaufrankisch plus pinot noir, merlot and zweigelt. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

Winemaker Description

The house brand red is a blend of Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and Pinot Noir, which is matured in large used wooden barrels. The Zweigelt brings fruit and charm, the Pinot Noir juiciness and the Blaufränkisch character and structure.

The Blaufränkisch also dominates the nose with dark aromas, ripe black cherries and plums, some eucalyptus and a slight smokiness of bacon. On the palate it starts fresh and animating, a fine and mellow tannin spreads directly on the tongue, again cherry and fine tannins.

The house brand stands for fresh drinking fun and goes well with stews and autumnal cuisine, for example with pumpkin.

Schloss Lieser SL Feinherb Estate Riesling has herbal and minerally aroma, really flinty on the nose. Has aromas of fruit and slate that lead to a fresh and round palate with a salty finish.

Winemaker Description 

A stunning Sagrantino from our favorite Italian, Mr. Mattoni himself! Intense ruby red color with hints of berries, sweet spices and tobacco. On the palate there is a freshness followed by soft tannins of finesse and persistence.

Winemaker Description 

Beautiful ruby red color with an intense nose of fresh grapes and subtle black fruits aromas.

This is a complex wine that offers firm tannins and rich fruit. It has weight, density and a strong sense of ripeness. With balance and depth, it’s a wine with good aging potential.
Will pair nicely with all kind of meats (pork shank, roasted poultry), and perfumed cheeses (like crottins de Chavignolor other goat cheeses).

On the palate, the wine reveals a good structure and the evolution expresses some freshness that gives to the wine a very dynamic character and a contemporary style. Great with grilled meats and hard cheeses! 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2014

The Wine Advocate 94 Points | I loved the nose of the 2014 Viña Bosconia Reserva, a red that sells at an incredible price for the quality, the problem is (like all their wines) finding it... They had to accelerate the harvest to avoid botrytis caused by the abundant rain during the harvest. This is a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho and the remaining 5% Graciano and Mazuelo, fermented in old oak vats with their yeasts and matured in neutral American oak barrels for no less than five years. It's elegant and nuanced, developed but young for its age, with a seamless palate and very fine tannins, with energy and light. It has 13.5% alcohol, a pH of 3.3 and 6.7 grams of acidity, notable parameters of freshness. 80,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2022.

Vinous 94 Points | The 2014 Viña Bosconia is 80% Tempranillo with 10% Garnacha, 5% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo from the El Bosque vineyard in Haro, Rioja. Garnet in hue, it opens with cassis, cola and oak-driven aromas. The palate is youthful and smooth, with well-integrated tannins, black fruit and anisette at the finish. Still growing, it’ll develop greater complexity with more time in bottle.

Winemaker Description 

With Designation of Origin Arribes, wine made exclusively from two native varieties, Juan Garcia and Bruñal. Unique varieties almost impossible to find outside the Arribes del Duero Natural Park. Our grapes grow on vines over 100 years old, all of them picked and selected by hand.

Its special character makes our winery prefer to produce single varietal wines where we take the best of each variety and elaborate a perfect wine with 85% of Juan García grape and 15% of Bruñal grape.

Fermentation takes place in truncated conical tanks of 1500 liters.

Subsequently, the wine matures for 24 months in French and Romanian oak barrels and for another 36 months in bottle before being released to the market.

TASTING NOTES
Color: Medium cherry red.
Nose: Powerful with aromas of aging, blending in perfect balance with red fruit
balance with red fruits with tones of aging and spices such as clove and nutmeg.
clove and nutmeg.
Palate: Light, smooth, without edges, mixing red fruit compote flavors with balsamic nuances.
de fruta roja con matices balsámicos de clavo y canela.
The aftertaste is long, elegant and pleasant, feeling the great balance in all phases of tasting.
Type: Reserva red wine (15% Bruñal and 85% Juan García).
Glass bottle 75 cl.
Sugestions: Perfect with red meats, duck, game, spicy or spicy dishes.
caza, platos especiados o picantes. Ideal with cured cheeses.
Serve between 16-18 degrees.
Uncork 1 hour before serving.

Memo Summary Notes

The Abadengo Juan García 2022 is a unique, terroir-driven red wine from the Arribes DO (Denominación de Origen) in northwestern Spain, along the rugged border with Portugal. This wine is a specialist bottling by Bodegas Ribera de Pelazas, which focuses on preserving the rare, indigenous Juan García grape.

Pair with

• Traditional: Roasted suckling pig or milk-fed lamb (Lechazo).

• Modern: Grilled octopus with pimentón or mushroom-based pastas.

• Cheese: Sharp sheep’s milk cheeses like Manchego or Zamorano

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

The Wine Enthusiast 94 Points | This is the flagship Chardonnay produced by Domaine Anderson. It is a glimpse into the winemaking style of the house, highlighting the cool climate, sunshine and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The nose conveys pithy apple, youthful nectarine and butterscotch candy. The palate intensifies these notes, along with high acidity, minerals, cinnamon and a mouthwatering finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Made from estate-grown, certified organic vineyards, including three single-vineyard designates (Navarro-Fairhills, Walraven, and Dach), the 2021 Chardonnay Estate is a light-bodied white that is tangy in acidity and fresh citrus notes, expertly showcasing both the cool-climate region and coolness of the vintage, one of the earliest harvests on record in the Anderson Valley. Meyer lemon and a twist of lime highlight the aromatic profile, with more lemon developing on the palate as a nice complement to the green and Golden Delicious apple flavors.

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | With sleek notes of lemon, pear and yuzu alongside racy acidity, this pops out of the glass, finding wonderful harmony with the grace notes of white pepper and vanilla custard, plus a hint of salted butter shortbread on the finish. Drink now. 1,000 cases made.

Winemaker Description 

Tasting Notes

Bristling with kinetic energy, the Rossatz offers a hugely expressive nose of tangy yellow fruits with a laser-like, salt-drenched palate that prompts salivation. Its acidity is juicy rather than cutting, and its 1.5 g/L of residual sugar are rendered completely invisible — a textbook example of dry Wachau Riesling at its most vibrant.

About the Wine

Fischer's village-level Rossatz Riesling is a blend of fruit from his various premier crus — grapes that don't quite make his rigorous cut for single-vineyard bottlings, yet still deliver exceptional quality and character. The Federspiel classification — the middle tier of the Wachau's ripeness hierarchy — signals a wine of elegant, food-friendly weight: lighter than Smaragd, yet with more depth and structure than a Steinfeder.

Food Pairing

A natural match for freshwater fish, sushi, oysters, light poultry, and herb-driven dishes. Serve well chilled.

Product Details

• Appellation: Wachau (Rossatz), Niederösterreich, Austria
• Varietal: Riesling
• Classification: Federspiel
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Josef Fischer

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The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Under screw cap, the De Wetshof Estate 2024 Robertson Limestone Hill Chardonnay offers a simple delivery of citrus, pomelo and wild sage. The wine focuses on brightness and is extremely drinkable, but perhaps it's a little less complex compared to all the other very different Chardonnays in this portfolio. You get a pretty note of latex or natural rubber, which I really like. This wine is unoaked, and that's what sets it apart.

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A lovely golden colour. Intense aromas of lychee, blackcurrant and exotic fruit. Luscious and tangy on the palate, with aromas of yellow-fleshed fruit such as pineapple and a refreshing touch of minerality.

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James Suckling 93 Points | Attractive notes of slice pears and peaches with hints of fresh herbs and lemon peel. Medium-bodied, tangy and zesty on the palate with vibrant acidity coming through.

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NOW by Paxton stands for 'Natural Organic Wine.' As leaders in organic production, Paxton wanted to create a Biodynamic and USDA Certified Organic natural wine with no added preservatives in a young, drink 'now' style of Chardonnay.

A fruit salad of native finger lime, pear d'Anjou, with wild spearmint, elderflower and a touch of tarragon. Bright and bouncy like jumping for the clouds on a backyard trampoline. This Chardonnay sits up straight but has a sneaky scrumptious and vibrant feel once allowed to relax. Drink NOW.

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Pale straw with green hues. A lifted nose showing refreshing herbal notes, snow pea, melon, and fresh guava. Light-bodied and refreshing with typical Marlborough flavors of passion fruit, gooseberry, and grapefruit. A pleasing herbaceous thread leads to a long, lingering finish. Enjoy with seafood, chicken served over grilled vegetables/salad or simply on its own.

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India.  An emblematic Sauvignon Blanc, internationally acclaimed. Aromatic, crisp and fresh, this delightful white wine has the classic green pepper notes of a Sauvignon Blanc, but also offers super charming tropical flavours.

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Domaine Pierre Gelin is the leading wine producer in the small village of Fixin (pronounced “Fees-an”). The family domaine was founded in 1925 by Pierre Gelin and is today in the hands of Pierre’s grandson, Pierre-Emmanuel. Pierre-Emmanuel farms organically and works to minimize the impact on the environment in both vineyard and cellar.

The family owns 32 acres in total including parcels in five of the Fixin premier crus and the monopole Clos Napoléon.

In 1961 Pierre also purchased vineyards in Gevrey-Chambertin, including the monopole Clos de Meixvelle, Clos Prieur 1er cru, and the Grand Cru Clos de Bèze.

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On the palate it is silky, supple and delicate; well-balanced and elegant with a fine long finish of ripe blackberry and blackcurrents.

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