2010 - Present Wine

Winemaker Description 

The delicate and complex olfactory expression opens on aromas which remind of white flower, exotic fruits. There is a very beautiful complexity for a vintage where the end-of-season’s sun brought a lot to the aromas. Excellent complexity that translates into great and elegant richness. Nice attack, straight and bright, it takes place with elegance on fruity notes associated with a dense structure and a beautiful acidity which brings a great length in the end of the mouth. There are aromas of exotic fruits (litchi, mango).

Purchased by the Comte Lafond, an ancestor of the current owner, Baron Patrick de Ladoucette, Château du Nozet and its surrounding vineyards have a reputation for producing the finest Pouilly-Fumé. The vineyards are in Pouilly-Fumé Contrôlée, which includes Pouilly-sur-Loire, Saint-Andelain and Tracy-sur-Loire at the eastern end of the Loire Valley (including the vineyard of the Château du Nozet estate).

Both clay and limestone influence the delicate characteristics in Ladoucette Baron de L Pouilly-Fumé. This Grande Cuvée of Pouilly Fumé is produced exclusively in the best years and from the first pressing of the estate’s grapes. Winemaker Description. 

Pascal Doquet Arpège Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature — Côte des Blancs 2019 Base

Pascal Doquet is one of the leading organic growers of the Côte des Blancs, farming his vineyards in Vertus, Villeneuve, and Mont Aimé with certified organic practices and a deep commitment to terroir transparency. The Arpège is his entry-point Blanc de Blancs — 100% Chardonnay from parcels not selected for his limited-production Coeur de Terroir bottlings — yet it is anything but secondary. The chalk and flinty silex soils of Mont Aimé give the wine its distinctive mineral structure and smoky depth, while a substantial proportion of reserve wine held in enamel tanks adds complexity and consistency. Finished with zero dosage, the Brut Nature designation allows the Chardonnay and its vineyard origins to speak with exceptional clarity. Rated 93 points by James Suckling and 91 by The Wine Advocate.

The bouquet opens with ripe pear, crisp apple, and citrus, followed by spice, black tea, white flowers, and lightly toasted brioche. On the palate, the wine is energetic and finely textured — bright acidity, delicate bubbles, and a pronounced chalky, saline character. Subtle smoky and savory notes add complexity, and the finish is dry, focused, and persistent. An exceptional aperitif with the structure to carry through a full meal.

James Suckling 93 • Wine Advocate 91 • Wine Spectator 90 — "A refined yet expressive Champagne… terroir-driven and precise."

• Producer: Pascal Doquet, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2019 (with reserve wines)
• Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
• Vineyards: Vertus, Villeneuve & Mont Aimé
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs, Brut Nature
• Dosage: 0 g/L
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Reserve Wine: Held in enamel tanks for freshness and purity
• Alcohol: ~12.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe pear, apple, citrus, spice, black tea, white flowers, brioche, chalky minerality, smoky notes, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, shellfish, sushi, sashimi, grilled seafood, roast poultry, creamy cheeses, aged goat cheese

93 points from James Suckling. Zero dosage. Certified organic. Pascal Doquet's Arpège is Côte des Blancs Blanc de Blancs at its most honest and mineral-driven.

Yann Alexandre Blanches Terres Rosé 1er Cru Brut — Champagne 2018 Base

This elegant Premier Cru rosé is drawn from two exceptional lieu-dits: Les Blanches Terres in Coulommes-la-Montagne for Chardonnay, and Saint Lié in Villedommange for Pinot Noir. At 94% Chardonnay, it is a blanc de blancs in spirit — mineral-driven, precise, and tensile — with 6% Pinot Noir red wine added to impart delicate color, red-fruit lift, and subtle structure. The 2018 base is blended with 60% reserve wine, grounding the cuvée in depth and consistency, before a minimum of 48 months en tirage develops a refined mousse, creamy texture, and layered complexity.

The nose is graceful and expressive: white peach, strawberry, and fresh raspberry over a bed of chalk and white flowers. On the palate, the wine is precise and mineral-driven, with fine, persistent bubbles carrying notes of citrus cream, red currant, and brioche to a clean, saline finish. The Brut dosage of 6 g/L keeps the wine focused and dry, while the partial oak vinification adds just enough texture to elevate it at the table.

"Elegant and gastronomic — a Chardonnay-driven rosé Champagne of rare freshness, mineral energy, and delicate red-fruit charm."

• Producer: Yann & Séverine Alexandre, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
• Vineyards: Les Blanches Terres (Coulommes-la-Montagne) & Saint Lié (Villedommange)
• Blend: 94% Chardonnay, 6% Pinot Noir (red wine addition)
• Reserve Wine: 60%
• Vinification: Primarily stainless steel; 15% Chardonnay in oak; partial malolactic fermentation
• Lees Aging: Minimum 48 months en tirage
• Dosage: 6 g/L | Acidity: 5.51 g/L | pH: 2.9 | Alcohol: 12%
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by OCACIA
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White peach, strawberry, raspberry, chalk, white flowers, citrus cream, red currant, brioche, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Smoked salmon, tuna tartare, shellfish, sushi, roast poultry, charcuterie, creamy cheeses

Sixty percent reserve wine, 48 months on the lees, and two Premier Cru lieu-dits of rare mineral character — Yann Alexandre's Blanches Terres Rosé is grower Champagne at its most refined.

BODEGAS MUGA RIOJA ROSÉ 2025 | 750ML

🇪🇸 Spain — Garnacha, Viura | Rioja

Bright and pale pink in color, Muga’s 2025 Rosado is a wine of precision and freshness. The nose offers medium intensity with notes of stone fruit, peach skin, rose petals, and subtle floral and citrus nuances. On the palate it is fresh and balanced, with sharp, well-integrated acidity that gives it tension and length. The finish is refreshing and lingering, with echoes of stone fruit and delicate citrus. A wine shaped by the cool mountain origins of Alto Najerilla and the character of a demanding vintage.

Sourced from two distinct terroirs — the calcareous clay soils of Valle del Oja and the ferrous clay soils of Valle del Najerilla — the blend of Garnacha (60%+) and Viura is hand-harvested and fermented at controlled temperatures of 16–18°C for 15–20 days, then aged on fine lees for 16 weeks to build body, smoothness, and length. Muga remains the only bodega in Spain with its own master cooper and barrel makers.

92 Points — Vinous
“Fresh and energetic, with fine texture and a sleek, nervy flow. The character of this young Rosé is shaped by both the cool mountain origin and the vintage.” (Vintage 2025). 

90+ Points — Wine Advocate
“A core of rose petals and chalk, while the palate is where you have to pay attention. They got very good Garnacha in 2025, and the grapes were picked at the right time to get a balance between alcohol, freshness and acidity.” — Luis Gutierrez. (Vintage 2025). 

Grapes: Garnacha, Viura
Region: Rioja, Spain
Vintage: 2025
Format: 750ml
Scores: 92 pts Vinous | 90+ pts Wine Advocate

Michele Chiarlo Le Marne Gavi DOCG — Piedmont, Italy 2024

Michele Chiarlo is one of Piedmont’s most respected producers, celebrated for wines of precision and terroir across Barolo, Barbera, and Gavi. Le Marne is their benchmark Gavi: 100% Cortese sourced from clay marl soils rich in iron on high hills near the town of Gavi, where sea breezes from the Ligurian Sea and cool mountain winds from the Apennines create a microclimate ideal for growing Cortese to optimal ripeness. The grapes are hand-harvested with summer bunch thinning for concentration, pressed without crushing, cold-settled, and fermented with indigenous yeasts at low temperature before aging 3–4 months on fine lees in stainless steel — a process that builds complexity while preserving the grape’s signature freshness. The 2024 vintage was exceptional for white grapes: warm and dry from mid-June to mid-September, with grower expertise playing a crucial role in achieving optimal ripeness. 

Straw yellow with bright green hues. The nose is elegant and inviting: golden apple, lemon, acacia flower, and bread crust. On the palate, it is crisp and fresh, with bright acidity, a mineral thread from the iron-rich clay marl soils, and a long, savory finish. A perfect food wine in every sense.

• Producer: Michele Chiarlo, Calamandrana, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Gavi DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Cortese — clay marl soils, high hills near Gavi
• Aging: 3–4 months on fine lees, stainless steel
• ABV: 12.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Golden apple, lemon, acacia flower, bread crust, crisp acidity, long savory finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, sushi, seafood risotto, meat carpaccio, light pasta, fresh cheeses

A Piedmont benchmark at an honest price — Michele Chiarlo Le Marne is the standard for what Gavi DOCG can be.

Francis Ford Coppola Diamond Collection Chardonnay 2024

Francis Ford Coppola Winery has long been a standard-bearer for approachable, expressive California wines. The Diamond Collection — named for the director's four Academy Awards — represents the winery's commitment to quality across a range of varietals and appellations. This Chardonnay draws from the cool, wind-swept vineyards of the Santa Lucia Highlands, a region celebrated for producing whites of exceptional depth and natural acidity.

The 2024 vintage benefits from the Highlands' signature growing conditions: morning fog rolling in from Monterey Bay, afternoon coastal breezes, and well-draining hillside soils. Together, these elements create a long, even growing season that allows fruit to develop remarkable intensity while retaining freshness and balance.

Pale gold in the glass, the wine delivers a rich, creamy texture with lush impressions of ripe apple, pear, and toasted oak. The palate is generous yet balanced, with a smooth finish and impeccable structure. A versatile, crowd-pleasing Chardonnay that overdelivers at its price point.

Wine Enthusiast — 87 pts

Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands, California
Vintage: 2024
Format: 750ml
Score: 87 pts — Wine Enthusiast

Argiano Rosso di Montalcino 2024

Argiano is one of Montalcino's most storied and prestigious estates, its roots intertwined with the very history of the appellation. Perched atop a plateau at approximately 350 meters above sea level on the southwestern slope of Montalcino, the estate sits on ancient calcareous marl soils formed some 25 million years ago — a geological legacy that imparts remarkable minerality and aging potential to its wines. Today, guided by a passionate team, Argiano blends deep traditional knowledge with a forward-looking commitment to identity, innovation, and sustainability.

The Rosso di Montalcino is Argiano's entry point into the world of Brunello — and a compelling one at that. Sourced from the estate's younger Sangiovese vines and select plots, it offers the hallmark character of the appellation in a more approachable, earlier-drinking style. The 2024 vintage showcases the energy and freshness that define great Rosso: vibrant acidity, crunchy red fruit, and the mineral backbone that only Montalcino's marl-rich soils can deliver.

Bright ruby in the glass, the wine opens with pristine aromas of red cherries, red currants, minty herbs, and fragrant violets, with nuances of wet stone and blackberry. On the palate, it is round and soothing with crisp, brilliant acidity, chewy tannins, and a crunchy, energetic style. The finish is long, with a subtle black fruit saturation and a sense of effortless vitality.

James Suckling — 93 pts
"Pristine with vinous aromas, red cherries, red currants and sweet, fragrant violets. The medium-bodied palate shows crisp, brilliant acidity, chewy tannins and a crunchy style. Full of energy." (Vintage 2024). 

Vinous — 90 pts
"The 2024 Rosso di Montalcino combines minty herbs with nuances of wet stone and blackberries. It’s round and soothing with crisp minerality and ripe, wild berry fruits. Energetic and gently chewy, the 2024 closes with a subtle black fruit saturation." (Vintage 2024). 

Varietal: Sangiovese
Appellation: Rosso di Montalcino DOC, Tuscany, Italy
Vintage: 2024
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 pts James Suckling | 90 pts Vinous

Domaine Michel Niellon | Chassagne-Montrachet | Burgundy, France | 2023

One of Chassagne-Montrachet's most trusted names, Michel Niellon has long produced village-level whites of uncommon precision and depth. The 2023 vintage brings a ripe yet fresh expression of the appellation — orchard fruit, white flowers, and hazelnut on the nose, followed by yellow apple, lemon curd, and flint on the palate. The texture is rounded and polished, balanced by underlying freshness and chalky lift. A wine of aromatic depth and quiet authority.

Tasting Notes

Pear and apple compote, citrus confit, rosemary oil. Punchy and delicious flavors with a clean, dry, and refreshing finish. A few years of cellaring will reward patience.

Critical Acclaim

Burghound 88 Points — Allen Meadows
"A ripe but agreeably fresh and layered nose reflects notes of pear and apple compote, citrus confit and a suggestion of rosemary oil. The punchy and delicious, if not especially dense, flavors also conclude in a clean, dry and refreshing finale. This could use better depth so a few years of cellaring should prove to be beneficial."

• Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Domaine Michel Niellon

Domaine Michel Niellon · Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru · Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière · Burgundy · 2023

Domaine Michel Niellon is one of Chassagne-Montrachet’s most revered addresses — a small, meticulous family estate that has farmed its premier cru parcels for generations with an unwavering commitment to terroir expression over winemaking intervention. Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière is among the domaine’s most prized holdings: a monopole planted with ancient vines, some more than a century old, set very high on the slope where the combination of altitude, old vine concentration, and Chassagne’s signature limestone soils produces Chardonnay of extraordinary tension and longevity. The 2023 earned 96 points from Charles Curtis MW at Decanter — a wine built for the cellar and the ages.

The 2023 opens with pronounced ripe fruit aromas of lemon peel, nectarine, and gooseberry, edged with saline minerality. The texture is impressively fresh for the vintage — lilting and silky — with marvellous concentration and great tension on the palate. A wine of rare substance and precision, it will benefit from a decade in the cellar and has the structure to drink beautifully for several decades after that.

“Pronounced ripe fruit aromas of lemon peel, nectarine and gooseberry, with an edge of saline minerality. The texture is impressively fresh for the vintage, with a lilting, silky texture, marvellous concentration and great tension on the palate. The grapes are from ancient vines, some more than a century old, planted very high on the slope. This will benefit from a decade in the cellar, but it has the substance to drink for several decades after that.”
— Charles Curtis MW, Decanter · 96 Points

• Producer: Domaine Michel Niellon, Chassagne-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru
• Climat: Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière (monopole)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vines: Ancient vines, some 100+ years old; high on the slope
• Style: Dry white — mineral, concentrated, exceptional tension
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, nectarine, gooseberry, saline minerality, silky texture, great concentration and tension
• Cellar: Drink 2033–2050+
• Pairings: Lobster, turbot, Dover sole, scallops, white truffle dishes, aged Comté

Decanter 96 · Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru — century-old vines, monopole climat, and a decade or more of cellaring ahead. One of Burgundy’s most compelling 2023s.

Defaix Frères Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux — Burgundy 2022

Defaix Frères is a family domaine with deep roots in the Côte Chalonnaise, farming 11 acres of Rully Premier Cru holdings that have been in the family for generations. Les Cloux is one of Rully’s most prized Premier Cru vineyards — a south-facing site that captures the full warmth of the Burgundian sun while retaining the limestone-driven minerality that defines the appellation. The 2022 vintage was a gift: a warm, dry growing season that produced Chardonnay of exceptional ripeness and concentration, with the structure to age gracefully for a decade or more. At this price, it is one of the most compelling Premier Cru values in all of Burgundy.

The color is a luminous golden straw. The nose is refined and expressive: ripe citrus, green apple, white peach, and delicate white flowers, layered with warm spice and a signature note of roasted hazelnut from judicious oak élevage. On the palate, it is fresh and beautifully balanced — crisp acidity framing a subtle creamy texture, with flavors of lemon zest, orchard fruit, and gentle limestone minerality leading to a long, clean, and elegant finish.

“Delicious, open, and friendly — ripe, crisp apples and pears with an undercurrent of warm spices and roasted hazelnut. A judicious use of oak.”

• Producer: Defaix Frères, Rully, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Holdings: 11 acres of Rully Premier Cru
• Style: Refined, expressive, mineral-driven white Burgundy
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, green apple, white peach, white flowers, roasted hazelnut, warm spice, limestone minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–10 years
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, lobster, seafood, creamy pastas, egg dishes, patés, soft cheeses

Premier Cru Burgundy at an honest price — Defaix Frères Les Cloux is the Côte Chalonnaise at its most compelling.

About This Wine

Beaulieu Vineyard — BV — is one of Napa Valley's most storied estates, founded in 1900 and home to the legendary Georges de Latour Private Reserve. The BV Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is the house's approachable flagship: a Bordeaux-inspired blend drawing from Rutherford, Calistoga, and St. Helena, aged 15 months in French and European oak. Generous, polished, and built for immediate enjoyment.

The 2022 vintage delivers a warm, fruit-forward profile — strawberry, black cherry, and cassis up front, with kola nut, mocha, and toasted oak in support. The blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah, Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, and Petit Verdot adds mid-palate plushness and a lingering, finessed finish. Medium-bodied with soft tannins and a lovely mouthfeel, this is a Napa Cab that delivers at the table tonight.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby
• Nose: Caramel, ripe red berries, strawberry, black cherry, cassis
• Palate: Medium body, juicy red and black fruit, blueberry, kola nut, mocha, toasted oak
• Finish: Soft tannins, tangy freshness, lingering and finessed

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 93 | Focused and brilliant flavors of red and black cherries and black currants drive this sleek and powerful wine, as minty, toasty, and tobacco-like accents stay subtly in the background. A full body, medium to full tannins and good fruit acidity lend tangy freshness. Best from 2026.

James Suckling 92 | A warm and generous wine with a sweet-seeming richness that makes it easy to sip without further aging. Full-bodied, laced with mostly red fruit — strawberries to cherries — with underlying blueberry, cocoa and crème de cassis notes. Drink now.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, roasted chicken, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and tomato-based pasta. Versatile enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2022
Region: Napa Valley, California
Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Syrah, 5% Malbec, 3% Petite Sirah, 2% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot
Oak Aging: 15 months, French & European oak (30% new)
Style: Full-bodied Red Wine

Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon — Sonoma County 2022

Ferrari-Carano is one of Sonoma County’s most celebrated family-owned wineries, founded in 1981 by Don and Rhonda Carano on the benchlands of Dry Creek Valley. Over four decades, they have built a reputation for estate-driven wines of exceptional quality and consistency — wines that express the warmth, generosity, and complexity of Sonoma County at its best. The Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is their benchmark red: a bold, structured wine sourced from select Sonoma County vineyards and crafted by Senior Red Winemaker Rebecka Deike. The 2022 is a distinctive blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Syrah — an unconventional but inspired combination that adds plush texture and savory depth to the classic Cabernet framework. James Suckling awarded it 92 points; Wine Enthusiast 91 points.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is rich and layered: damson plums, tobacco leaves, cedar, and licorice, with concentrated aromas of roasted cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper adding complexity and intrigue. On the palate, it is full-bodied and generous — firmly framed tannins, a plush mouthfeel, and flavors of blackberry, licorice, and toasty barrel spices that linger along a neatly balanced finish. Fruity yet savory, structured yet approachable — very generous and giving for the price.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Aromas of damson plums, tobacco leaves, cedar and licorice. The full-bodied palate has firmly framed tannins and a plush mouthfeel. This is a fruity yet savory blend of 78% cabernet sauvignon and 22% syrah. Very generous and giving for the price. Drink or hold.”

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
“Concentrated aromas of roasted cherry, cocoa powder and black pepper dominate the nose of this Cab. The palate is rich and broad, with flavors of blackberry, licorice and toasty barrel spices that linger along the neatly balanced finish.”

• Producer: Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Sonoma County
• Blend: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Syrah
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bold, plush, fruit-forward Sonoma County Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Damson plum, roasted cherry, tobacco, cedar, licorice, cocoa, blackberry, toasty spice
• Drink Window: Now–2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, BBQ, aged cheddar, dark chocolate

Two critics, two 90+ scores — Ferrari-Carano 2022 is Sonoma County Cabernet at its most generous.

Vinous 90 Points: The 2023 Chardonnay Central Coast opens with a honeyed bouquet of wild flowers, ginger shavings and freshly sliced nectarines. This sweeps across the palate with ease, clean and bright, with vivid green apple fruit. It leaves the senses pleasantly refreshed as nuances of chamomile fade.

Crafted in a bright, fruit-driven style that showcases the best of California Chardonnay, Justin Winery Chardonnay Sonoma County 2023 offers remarkable balance, freshness, and approachability. Sourced from select vineyard sites, this expressive white wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe pear, golden apple, honeydew melon, and citrus blossom, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, baking spice, and toasted brioche.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully textured, delivering layers of juicy orchard fruit, lemon curd, and stone fruit flavors supported by lively acidity and a gentle touch of oak. The finish is clean, refreshing, and persistent, making it an exceptionally versatile Chardonnay for both casual enjoyment and food pairing.

Elegant yet accessible, this Sonoma County Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled seafood, creamy pasta dishes, crab cakes, lobster, and mild cheeses.

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: Pear, golden apple, citrus blossom, melon, vanilla
• Palate: Apple, peach, lemon curd, baking spice, subtle oak
• Body: Medium-bodied
• Style: Fresh, balanced, fruit-forward Chardonnay
• Finish: Clean, bright, and lingering

A polished and crowd-pleasing California Chardonnay that delivers exceptional value and everyday drinkability.

Domaine Louis Michel & Fils — Chablis 1er Cru Butteaux Vieilles Vignes 2023

Louis Michel is one of Chablis's most uncompromising estates — a house that has never wavered from its commitment to unoaked, terroir-driven Chardonnay. No new oak, no malolactic softening, no concessions to trend. The wines are aged entirely in stainless steel, which means what you taste in the glass is pure Chablis: the chalk, the Kimmeridgian clay, the cold northern light. The Butteaux is a premier cru climat on the left bank of the Serein, and this bottling comes from a single parcel of vines over 60 years old — planted in clay soils rich with ancient fossils, farmed for depth and concentration rather than yield. The 2023 receives a year longer in élevage than the regular cuvée, giving it additional texture and presence without sacrificing the estate's signature precision.

The nose is complex and layered: caramelized baked apple, toasted notes, wet stone, and undergrowth, opening to peach, tangerine zest, dried white flowers, and wild heather. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, built around racy acidity and ample extract from the old vines, with a saline, sappy, lingering finish. Youthfully introverted today — give it time, or decant generously.

Wine Advocate 91 • Burghound 89–92 • Vinous 89–91 — "Sappy, lingering and well-balanced… I really like the mouthfeel thanks to the sappy dry extract provided by the old vines." — Allen Meadows, Burghound

• Producer: Domaine Louis Michel & Fils, Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Chablis 1er Cru
• Climat: Butteaux, left bank — Kimmeridgian clay, fossil-rich soils
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay (vines 60+ years old)
• Élevage: Stainless steel, unoaked, extended aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Baked apple, wet stone, peach, tangerine zest, white flowers, saline finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2025–2033
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled sole, scallops, goat cheese, roast chicken

A 91-point premier cru Chablis from 60-year-old vines — Louis Michel's Butteaux is the benchmark for what unoaked, old-vine Chardonnay can be.

Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Meursault Les Corbins — Côte de Beaune 2023

Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur is one of Meursault’s most respected family estates, known for wines of precision, tension, and genuine terroir expression. Les Corbins is a southeast-facing lieu-dit located north of the village of Meursault on the road to Volnay, sitting just beneath the premier cru Les Plures — a position that speaks to the quality of the site. François Bitouzet farms a hectare and a half of Chardonnay here, planted between 1974 and 1987 in a particularly deep and rocky clay-limestone soil that imparts the wine’s signature intense minerality and acid-driven tension. Aged 16 months in 20% new barrels, this is a textbook Meursault of excellent weight and complexity — a village wine that drinks with the authority of a premier cru.

The nose is enchanting: intense minerality, subtle buttercream, spice, and a lifted touch of mint. On the palate, it is weighty and precise — the Bitouzet house style of acid-driven tension is fully on display, with the deep clay-limestone soils delivering concentration and structure alongside the classic Meursault richness. A wine of real distinction that will reward cellaring.

67 Wine — “Les Corbins sits just beneath the premier cru Les Plures, and it shows. Intense minerality, buttercream, spice and mint — with the acid-driven tension that defines the Bitouzet-Prieur house style. A village Meursault that drinks like a premier cru.”

• Producer: Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur, Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Meursault AOC
• Lieu-Dit: Les Corbins (SE-facing, north of Meursault village, below premier cru Les Plures)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vine Age: Planted 1974–1987
• Soil: Deep, rocky clay-limestone
• Aging: 16 months, 20% new oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Intense minerality, buttercream, spice, mint, excellent weight, acid-driven tension, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2025–2035+
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roast turbot, scallops, roast chicken with cream sauce, aged Comté

Southeast-facing, clay-limestone, vines from 1974 — Bitouzet-Prieur’s Les Corbins is the village Meursault that earns its place among the greats.

A vibrant, characterful red from one of Chile’s most exciting natural-minded producers, Roberto Henriquez País Verde 2025 is made from 100% País grown in the Secano Interior of the Bío Bío Valley in southern Chile. Fresh, lifted, and full of energy, this is a beautifully expressive wine that highlights the purity of old-vine País with bright fruit, floral aromatics, and a lively, juicy finish. Open-source retailer notes describe the wine as 100% País, made with carbonic maceration, with floral notes, tart red fruit, and juicy flavors, and RAW WINE lists Roberto Henríquez in Bio Bio Valley, Itata, Chile.

On the palate, expect a light- to medium-bodied red with notes of wild red berries, tart cherry, rose petals, and fresh herbs, supported by gentle spice and a refreshing, chillable profile. This is the kind of red that shines with a slight chill and pairs effortlessly with charcuterie, grilled sausage, roast chicken, or simply good company around the table. The same retailer notes specifically suggest pairings such as chorizo sausage or fresh fish off the grill.

• Producer: Roberto Henriquez
• Wine: País Verde
• Vintage: 2025
• Country: Chile
• Region: Secano Interior, Bío Bío Valley
• Grape Variety: 100% País
• Style: Fresh, juicy, chillable red wine
• Winemaking: Carbonic maceration
• Alcohol: 12% ABV
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Tasting Notes

Bright and energetic, with aromas and flavors of:

• Tart red berries
• Cherry and cranberry
• Floral notes
• Fresh herbs
• Juicy, savory finish

Food Pairing

Excellent with:

• Ibérico ham and charcuterie
• Chorizo
• Grilled fish
• Roast poultry
• Light tapas

Kistler Vineyards · Pinot Noir · Russian River Valley · 2024

Since 1978, Kistler Vineyards has set the benchmark for Burgundian-inspired winemaking in California. Their Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is sourced from vineyards along the Gravenstein Ridge — red, gravelly soils from the Sebastopol series that deliver the kind of cool-climate tension and mineral precision rarely found outside Burgundy itself. The vines are planted to Kistler's proprietary heritage clones, descended from Grand Cru Burgundy selections refined over 25 years of meticulous field work, prized for their low yields, small berries, and extraordinary site expression. At $85.99, this is one of California's most sought-after Pinot Noirs — and one of the most fairly priced at this level of pedigree.

The 2024 is harvested by hand at night to preserve freshness, 100% destemmed, and fermented in open-top tanks with native yeasts — only free-run juice collected, no pressing. Ten months in French oak (38% new, hand-stacked cooperage air-dried in St. Romain), then bottled unfined and unfiltered. The result: a complex bouquet of red currant, smoked earth, and exotic florals, leading to a seamless, medium-bodied palate with silky tannins and a long, mineral-driven finish. Drink now through 2032+.

• Producer: Kistler Vineyards
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Sub-Region: Gravenstein Ridge
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir (heritage Kistler clones)
• Vinification: Hand harvested at night · 100% destemmed · Native yeast · Open-top fermenters · Free-run juice only · 10 months French oak (38% new) · Unfined & unfiltered
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red currant, smoked earth, exotic florals, silky tannins, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2032+
• Food Pairings: Duck confit, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, aged Comté

Heritage Burgundy clones, Gravenstein Ridge terroir, and 45+ years of Kistler precision — Russian River Pinot Noir at its most compelling.

Tenuta Guado al Tasso Vermentino di Bolgheri 2024 — Tuscany

Tenuta Guado al Tasso is the Antinori family’s crown jewel on the Tuscan coast — a 1,000-hectare estate in Bolgheri, the appellation that gave the world Sassicaia and Ornellaia. This Vermentino is a deliberate act of terroir recovery: a revival of one of the indigenous varieties of the Tyrrhenian coast, recognized since the 1990s for its aromatic brilliance. Bolgheri’s unique microclimate — shaped by the estate’s coastal orientation and proximity to the sea — gives the wine its defining character: pronounced minerality, vivid freshness, and expressive aromatics that few Italian whites can match.

The nose is fragrant and coastal: white flowers, citrus blossom, green apple, and a saline mineral lift. On the palate it is crisp and focused, with bright acidity, a clean herbal thread, and a long, sea-breeze finish. The Tyrrhenian coast in a glass.

Antinori’s coastal estate — Bolgheri Vermentino at its most expressive.

• Producer: Tenuta Guado al Tasso, Marchese Antinori, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Vermentino di Bolgheri DOC
• Varietal: 100% Vermentino
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White flowers, citrus blossom, green apple, saline minerality, herbal finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled branzino, seafood pasta, oysters, burrata, light antipasti

A coastal Tuscan white at an honest price — Guado al Tasso’s Vermentino is the benchmark for what Bolgheri white wine can be.

Mauro Molino Barolo Bricco Luciani — Piedmont 2022

Mauro Molino is one of La Morra’s most respected producers, farming some of the Langhe’s finest single-vineyard sites with a commitment to expressing terroir with clarity and precision. Bricco Luciani is a prized cru in La Morra, its limestone-rich soils with a touch of sand delivering Barolo of distinctive elegance — bright, aromatic, and structured with the kind of finesse that rewards both early drinking and patient cellaring. Just 4,456 bottles were produced.

The 2022 vintage opens with wild raspberries, pressed flowers, sweet orange peel, blood orange, aromatic dried herbs, and bark. On the palate, it is medium-to-full-bodied with expanding tannins, refreshing acidity, a saline edge that keeps it lively, and a beautifully polished, accessible finish. Aged 18–20 months in a mix of large oak and barrique, it offers more immediacy than many Barolo sites while retaining the structure to evolve gracefully over the next decade and beyond.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 • Vinous 93 • James Suckling 93 — “Drink 2026–2038.”

• Producer: Mauro Molino, La Morra, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Vineyard: Bricco Luciani, La Morra — limestone with sand
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Aging: 18–20 months in large oak and barrique
• Production: 4,456 bottles
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Wild raspberry, pressed flowers, blood orange, dried herbs, chalk, mint, saline finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2026–2038; decant if opening now
• Best Paired With: Braised short ribs, roast lamb, truffle risotto, aged Parmigiano, wild boar ragù

A single-vineyard Barolo of rare elegance and limited production — Bricco Luciani is Mauro Molino at his very best.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Vinous 93 Points | The 2023 Flycatcher is a blend of 36% Zinfandel, 15% Cinsault, 13% Petite Sirah, 13% Carignane, 10% Tempranillo, 9% Merlot and 4% Syrah. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, cinnamon and crushed flowers soar from the glass. This vibrant, exuberant red offers tons of forward fruit buffered by brisk acids that add notable energy. Eminently quaffable, the 2023 also has plenty of complexity to satisfy more intellectually curious wine lovers.

Winemaker Notes

A love letter to California, Flycatcher is our newest wine that celebrates the wonderful and diverse terroirs of our home state — from Lodi to Los Carneros. An ambitious prospect we know, capturing the whole of California in a bottle, but we’ve been guided by some seriously inspiring growers and treasured vineyards that fitted together in a way that felt, and tasted, just right.

Frog’s Leap Flycatcher 2023 is a California red blend crafted to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of the state’s wine country. It’s designed as a fresh, approachable, and food-friendly wine made from a mix of grapes sourced “with intention” from heritage vineyards across California, reflecting different terroirs beyond the winery’s Napa home.

The blend typically features a variety of varietals — including Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Tempranillo, Cinsault, Carignane, and Syrah — that together create a generous, fruit-forward profile with red berry aromatics, savory depth, and balanced structure. The result is a versatile, everyday red that’s vibrant and layered, with flavors of ripe strawberries, blueberries, spice, and herbal notes, making it easy to enjoy on its own or paired with a wide range of foods.

Bérêche et Fils has been producing Champagne since the mid-19th century, and the estate’s reputation as one of the finest in the entire region has only grown under the stewardship of brothers Raphaël and Vincent Bérêche. Their approach is uncompromising: single-vineyard plots, minimal dosage, no malolactic fermentation, and a deep respect for terroir that allows each site to speak with clarity and precision. The result is a house style that is unmistakably racy, mineral, and built for the long haul.

This Cramant Grand Cru is a singular expression of one of Champagne’s most celebrated Chardonnay terroirs — a finely defined, powdery, and ethereally fresh wine resting upon an incredible bedrock of chalk. The nose is ample and delicate, evoking hawthorn against a backdrop of slightly damp chalk. The palate is unctuous and pure, revealing notes of iodine and extraordinary mineral tension. The finish — soft, chalky, and seemingly endless — gives way to the sheer emotion that only a great Cramant can evoke. A magnificent vintage with excellent aging potential.

Varietal: Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs)
Vintage: 2020
Appellation: Cramant Grand Cru, Champagne, France
Style: Extra Brut / Zero Dosage
Farming: Biodynamic
Bottle Size: 750ml

Cool-Climate Riesling from Chile's Southern Frontier

Trotamundos — Spanish for "globetrotter" — is a fitting name for a wine that defies expectations. Sourced from a single vineyard in the Bío Bío Valley, one of Chile's southernmost and coolest wine regions, this 100% Riesling captures the crisp, aromatic character that cool-climate viticulture delivers best.

Grown organically and vinified with minimal intervention, this is a wine of precision and freshness — a rare find from a region still largely undiscovered by mainstream wine drinkers.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Bright yellow with luminous green nuances
• Nose: Intense aromas of white peach, honey, and fresh lemon zest
• Palate: Semi-sweet with vibrant, well-balanced acidity and a clean, pleasant finish

Pairing Suggestions

A natural partner for spicy Asian cuisine, fresh seafood, soft cheeses, and fruit-forward desserts. Also exceptional on its own as an aperitif.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 100% Riesling
• Appellation: Bío Bío Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2022
• ABV: 12%
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Organic / Biodynamic

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

James Suckling 94 Points | Aromas of crushed stones, dark berries, and blueberries follow through to a medium to full body with creamy tannins and a medium-chewy finish. Chocolate at the end. Two or three years of bottle age will bring this around nicely. Drink after 2024.

Winemaker Description

A standard-setting Super Tuscan red blend renowned for its intense and intriguing character. Ruffino Modus opens with aromas of mature red and black cherries, plums, and small blackberries. A blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot — each variety contributing structure, depth, and fruit complexity in equal measure.

About Ruffino

Founded in 1877, Ruffino is one of Tuscany’s most storied wine estates. Modus — Latin for “method” or “measure” — was created to showcase the potential of blending international varieties with Sangiovese in the Toscana IGT classification, free from the constraints of traditional appellation rules. The result is a wine of remarkable consistency and age-worthiness at an accessible price point.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino, and classic Tuscan dishes. Equally rewarding with 2–3 years of additional cellaring.

Remelluri Reserva — Rioja Alavesa, Spain 2018

Remelluri is one of Rioja's most historic and prestigious single-estate producers — a benchmark for classical, terroir-driven Rioja that has no equal at its price. The estate farms 86 hectares of vineyards in the Sierra Cantabria mountains of Rioja Alavesa at extraordinary altitude: 590 to 805 meters above sea level, on limestone, sandstone, and marl soils that impart the mineral precision and structural elegance that define the Remelluri style. The estate is certified organic and biodynamic, fermented exclusively with natural yeasts in stainless steel and open-top oak vats, and aged 22 to 24 months in oak containers of varying sizes. The 2018 Reserva earned 95 points from both Robert Parker's Wine Advocate and James Suckling — a dual 95 that places it among the finest Rioja Reservas of the decade.

The nose is serious and captivating: dark cherry, blackberry, dried plum, cedar, tobacco, and iron-laced mineral, with a subtle herbal lift from the high-altitude vineyards. On the palate, the wine is beautifully structured and balanced — very fine tannins, a poised mouthfeel, and enough power and concentration to show genuine elegance and nuance. Almost salty on the finish, with a long, classical persistence of dark fruit, spice, and stone. Decant one hour before serving. Will age with ease for 15 years or more.

Wine Advocate 95 (Luis Gutiérrez) — "A very good classical wine, serious and balanced, with very fine tannins, a balanced mouthfeel, and enough power and concentration to show elegance and nuance. Very tasty, almost salty." (Vintage 2018).

James Suckling 95 — "A beautifully structured Rioja Reserva with refined tannins, layered complexity, and a balanced elegance that will age gracefully." (Vintage 2018). 

• Producer: Remelluri, Rioja Alavesa, Spain
• Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Rioja Reserva DOCa, Rioja Alavesa
• Vineyards: 86 ha, 590–805m altitude, Sierra Cantabria
• Soils: Limestone, sandstone, marl
• Varietal: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano and others
• Farming: Certified organic & biodynamic
• Aging: 22–24 months in oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, cedar, tobacco, mineral, fine tannins, almost salty finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, Iberian pork, braised short ribs, aged Manchego, classic Spanish preparations

Dual 95-point Rioja Reserva from one of the appellation’s most celebrated organic estates — Remelluri 2018 is the benchmark for what high-altitude, biodynamic Sierra Cantabria Tempranillo can deliver.

The Dalton Alma Rosé is a dry, elegant kosher rosé from Israel's Galilee region, crafted from handpicked Grenache and Pinot Gris. Aged six months, it delivers a refined balance of fresh red fruit, floral notes, and a crisp, lingering finish. Best enjoyed well-chilled alongside grilled fish, spicy cuisine, or Mediterranean mezze.

From the fog-kissed "Deep End" of Anderson Valley, Bravium's 2023 Pinot Noir is a textbook expression of cool-climate California — floral, complex, and hauntingly savory. Sourced from some of Mendocino County's most storied vineyard sites, this is Pinot Noir at its most expressive.

• Nose: Cherry cola, herbal tea, pennyroyal mint, rose petal, damp soil and cinnamon spice
• Palate: Luscious cherry, berry patch and plum with velvet texture, medium acidity and chocolate notes
• Finish: Saline, intriguingly savory and persistently long.

Vineyard & Terroir

• Primary Source: Wiley Vineyard — established 1972, the first vineyard planted in the westernmost "Deep End" of Anderson Valley, just 9 miles from the Pacific Ocean
• Vines: Multiple clones including 40-year-old Pommard vines rooted in sandstone soils
• Additional Sources: Valley Foothills Vineyard (Philo) and Helluva Vineyard (Boonville) contributing floral notes and red fruit complexity

Production Details

• Winery: Bravium
• Region: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California, USA
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023 | Format: 750ml
• Style: Cool-climate, floral & savory
• Allergens: Contains sulfites

Food Pairings

• Roasted duck and game birds
• Salmon and Pacific seafood
• Mushroom risotto and earthy vegetable dishes
• Soft cheeses — Brie, Camembert, Gruyère

Bravium is dedicated to showcasing the singular character of Anderson Valley — one of California's most compelling cool-climate AVAs. Wiley Vineyard, with vines established over 50 years ago, represents truly world-class terroir that rivals the finest Pinot Noir sites anywhere on earth.

Quinta de Santiago Assinatura de Família — Vinho Verde, Minho 2025

At the northern tip of Portugal, where the Minho River forms the border with Spain, a 7.5-hectare family farm has been tended by the Santiago family since 1899. For most of that time, their grapes went to cooperatives. That changed in 2009, when Grandma Mariazinha Santiago — then 86 years old, full of passion and determination — challenged her children and grandchildren to build a boutique winery and prove that world-class Alvarinho and native varietals from Monção could shine on their own. Today, her granddaughter Joana Santiago, a self-described "authentic Minho woman," leads the estate with the same conviction. The Assinatura de Família is their family signature wine — a blend of Arinto, Trajadura, and Loureiro that captures everything the Minho does best.

The 2025 vintage is bright, aromatic, and immediately inviting. The nose offers juicy green apple, zesty citrus, and subtle floral lift from the Loureiro — fresh and precise. On the palate it is light-bodied with a gentle spritz, lively acidity, and a clean, lingering finish that makes it nearly impossible to put down. It is the kind of wine that disappears fast at the table — and that is exactly the point.

Joana Santiago, Winemaker — "Four generations of the Santiago family combine tradition, modernity, and enthusiasm to create authentic wines expressing the terroir of the region’s and farm’s native varietals."

• Producer: Quinta de Santiago, Monção, Minho, Portugal
• Winemaker: Joana Santiago
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Vinho Verde DOC
• Sub-Region: Monção, Minho
• Blend: Arinto, Trajadura, Loureiro
• Style: Crisp, floral & lightly effervescent
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, zesty citrus, floral lift, gentle spritz, bright acidity, clean finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shellfish, sushi, goat cheese, light salads, warm-weather sipping

A family signature wine from one of Vinho Verde’s most compelling small estates — four generations of devotion in every bottle.

Nortico Alvarinho · Vinho Regional Minho · Portugal · 2025

From the granite hillsides of northwestern Portugal, where the Atlantic shapes every growing season, Nortico Alvarinho is the benchmark expression of Minho's most celebrated white grape. Produced by Quinta de Soalheiro — one of the region's most respected estates — this is a wine built on precision and place, earning 89 points from Wine Enthusiast and delivering exceptional quality at its price point.

The 2025 opens with a luminous pale gold and an aromatic lift of ripe peach, pear, cantaloupe, and brioche, threaded with white tea and delicate floral notes. On the palate, citrus zest and yellow apple take center stage, carried by creamy texture and lively acidity. The finish is long and saline — a hallmark of Alvarinho grown on granite — leaving you reaching for another glass.

"It's hard not to like this wine both for pairing and as a sunshine sipper. A fruit salad of peach, pear, cantaloupe, and citrus is topped with brioche and white tea aromas. Drink it over the near-term for its buoyant fruit."
— John Sumners, Wine Enthusiast · 89 Points (Vintage 2025). 

• Producer: Quinta de Soalheiro / Nortico
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Vinho Regional Minho, Portugal
• Varietal: 100% Alvarinho
• Style: Dry white — crisp, aromatic, mineral
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, pear, cantaloupe, citrus zest, brioche, white tea, saline finish
• Pairings: Grilled branzino, steamed clams, shrimp ceviche, fresh goat cheese, light salads

89 points, Vinho Regional Minho — Atlantic-driven Alvarinho at its most refreshing and food-friendly.

The Elegance of Sichel House's Maison Sichel Saint-Estephe 2020

Discover the elegance of Maison Sichel Saint-Estephe 2020, a premium Bordeaux wine that exemplifies the rich viticultural heritage of the Saint-Estèphe appellation. The Sichel family are truly expert winemakers, and this Saint-Estèphe is no exception. This exceptional vintage showcases the unique terroir of the northern Médoc, marrying tradition with modern winemaking techniques to create a wine with fine elegance, structure, and balance.

Bordeaux Blend Composition

50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot. This classic Bordeaux blend combines the best characteristics of each varietal, creating a wine with complexity, depth, and aging potential.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep crimson
Aroma: Bramble fruit, blackcurrant, capsicum, cocoa, and cedar. Enticing bouquet of dark fruits and subtle earthy undertones
Palate: Layers of ripe blackberry and plum, complemented by hints of cedar and spice. Blackcurrant, capsicum, cocoa, and cedar. Smooth yet structured tannins. Fine elegance, structure, and balance
Finish: Balanced finish that lingers pleasantly

Aging Potential

Still young, this vintage will develop for many years with flavors of leather and cinnamon, truffle and clove starting to emerge. This remarkable depth and aging potential make it perfect for cellaring or enjoying now with decanting.

Maison Sichel - Six Generations of Excellence

Maison Sichel is a Bordeaux-based, family-owned and run négociant of six generations. The Sichel family have been a significant presence in Bordeaux since 1883 and have continued to expand operations by purchasing several properties in Bordeaux including Château Angludet and Château Argadens.

Château Palmer Partnership

The Sichel family also joined with three other families in 1938 to purchase the now legendary Château Palmer, one of Bordeaux's most prestigious estates. This partnership demonstrates the family's commitment to excellence and their deep roots in Bordeaux winemaking.

Expanded Portfolio

Maison Sichel continued to expand their operations outside of Bordeaux and have several high-quality own-label wines such as the Domaine Peter Sichel, Sichel Sauternes, and the Sichel Margaux. Each wine represents the family's dedication to quality and terroir expression.

Saint-Estèphe Appellation

Saint-Estèphe, located in the northern Médoc, is renowned for producing robust and complex red wines. The appellation's gravelly soils with clay subsoil create ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, resulting in wines with structure, power, and exceptional aging potential.

2020 Vintage Quality

This specific vintage showcases the unique terroir of the area, with exceptional fruit quality translating to remarkable flavor profiles. The 2020 vintage in Bordeaux produced wines of excellent concentration and balance, making this an outstanding example of Saint-Estèphe.

Fine Elegance, Structure & Balance

A wine with fine elegance, structure, and balance. The wine's tannins are smooth yet structured, ensuring a balanced finish that demonstrates the craftsmanship and expertise of the Sichel family's winemaking.

Expert Winemakers

The Sichel family are truly expert winemakers with over 140 years of experience in Bordeaux. In every sip, one can sense the passion and craftsmanship that Maison Sichel embodies, from vineyard management to final bottling.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This vintage stands out not only for its rich flavors but also for its remarkable depth, making it a perfect partner for various dishes:

• Rich stews and braised meats
• Grilled meats and steaks
• Roasted lamb and beef
• Game meats
• Aged cheeses
• Hearty cassoulet
• Mushroom-based dishes

Perfect for Celebratory Occasions

For wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, this bottle represents an ideal choice for celebratory occasions or a sophisticated addition to any cellar. The wine's elegance and structure make it suitable for special dinners and important moments.

Bordeaux Heritage Since 1883

Maison Sichel has long been synonymous with premium Bordeaux wines, each bottle a testament to the region's rich viticultural heritage. The Sichel family's significant presence in Bordeaux since 1883 ensures authenticity and quality in every bottle.

Northern Médoc Terroir

The unique terroir of the northern Médoc, with its gravelly soils and maritime influence, creates wines with distinctive character. This Saint-Estèphe showcases the power and structure that the appellation is famous for, while maintaining elegance and finesse.

Tradition Meets Modern Winemaking

This wine exemplifies the marriage of tradition with modern winemaking techniques. The Sichel family honors Bordeaux's winemaking heritage while employing contemporary methods to ensure optimal quality and expression of terroir.

Developing Complexity

With flavors of leather and cinnamon, truffle and clove starting to emerge as the wine develops, this Saint-Estèphe offers both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring potential. The wine will continue to evolve and reveal new layers of complexity over the years.

Experience the elegance of Curio California Pinot Noir 2024

Experience the elegance of Curio California Pinot Noir 2024, an honest expression of Pinot Noir as it was meant to be. Lovingly produced by minimalist winemakers James and Lorenza Allen of Accenti Wines, this wine showcases pure, unblemished Pinot Noir character through spontaneous fermentation, low-extraction, and moderate oak influence. With its lush, fruity aromas and sophisticated tannins, this wine beautifully captures the essence of California, making it an excellent choice for both casual drinkers and discerning connoisseurs.

Professional Review - Bart Hopkins, 67Wine.com

"Curio Pinot Noir is lovingly produced by minimalist winemakers James and Lorenza Allen of Accenti Wines. Spontaneous fermentation, low-extraction, and moderate oak influence are hallmarks of their style in the cellar. They don't add stuff like yeast, bacteria, tannins, or enzymes to the wines because well-farmed fruit and careful attention to detail eliminates the need for additives.

The 2024 Curio is Pinot Noir as it was meant to be. It's an honest expression of the varietal, pure and unblemished, every sip a revelation of flavor. On the nose, inviting aromas of dark cherry, wild strawberry and spiced plum swirl from the glass with elevated anticipation. The flavors coalesce joyfully in the mouth with elegance and harmonious balance, revealing a gentle earthiness and savory spice that resonates into the finish like a long Mediterranean sunset.

True to its form, this is a food lover's Pinot Noir. Don't be afraid to be adventurous, this Pinot will take on whatever culinary challenge it meets with delectable agility, whether it's a gourmet feast or a simple mid-week excursion."

James & Lorenza Allen - Accenti Wines

Curio Pinot Noir is crafted by James and Lorenza Allen, the talented winemaking duo behind Accenti Wines. Their minimalist approach to winemaking focuses on letting the fruit speak for itself, using spontaneous fermentation and careful attention to detail rather than additives. This philosophy creates wines of exceptional purity and character.

Minimalist Winemaking Philosophy

Spontaneous fermentation, low-extraction, and moderate oak influence are hallmarks of the Allens' style in the cellar. They don't add yeast, bacteria, tannins, or enzymes to the wines because well-farmed fruit and careful attention to detail eliminates the need for additives. This natural approach allows the true character of the Pinot Noir grape to shine through.

Pinot Noir as It Was Meant to Be

The 2024 Curio is Pinot Noir as it was meant to be - an honest expression of the varietal, pure and unblemished. Every sip is a revelation of flavor, showcasing the grape's natural elegance and complexity without manipulation or heavy-handed winemaking techniques.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Bright ruby red characteristic of Pinot Noir
Aroma: Inviting aromas of dark cherry, wild strawberry and spiced plum swirl from the glass with elevated anticipation. Lush, fruity aromas with hints of vanilla
Palate: The flavors coalesce joyfully in the mouth with elegance and harmonious balance. Ripe cherries, hints of vanilla, and subtle earthy undertones. Gentle earthiness and savory spice. Well-structured with sophisticated tannins. Vibrant acidity
Finish: Resonates into the finish like a long Mediterranean sunset. Smooth finish that lingers, allowing you to appreciate its depth

Well-Farmed Fruit

The quality of Curio Pinot Noir begins in the vineyard with well-farmed fruit from California's sun-kissed vineyards. Careful attention to viticulture ensures grapes of exceptional quality that require minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the terroir and vintage to express themselves fully.

2024 Vintage Excellence

The 2024 vintage showcases the exceptional quality that Curio wines are known for. This vintage captures the essence of California Pinot Noir with its pure fruit expression, elegant structure, and harmonious balance.

A Food Lover's Pinot Noir

True to its form, this is a food lover's Pinot Noir. Don't be afraid to be adventurous - this Pinot will take on whatever culinary challenge it meets with delectable agility, whether it's a gourmet feast or a simple mid-week excursion. The wine's versatility and balance make it perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This Pinot Noir elevates any meal with its refined character and vibrant acidity:

• Grilled salmon and seafood
• Rich mushroom risotto
• Roasted duck and poultry
• Pork tenderloin
• Earthy vegetable dishes
• Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert
• Charcuterie boards
• Gourmet feasts or simple mid-week meals

Elegant & Harmonious Balance

The flavors coalesce joyfully in the mouth with elegance and harmonious balance. This complexity creates a harmonious balance on the palate and invites you to dive deeper with every sip, revealing layers of flavor that make each glass a discovery.

Pure & Unblemished Expression

Every sip is a revelation of flavor - pure and unblemished Pinot Noir character without additives or manipulation. The minimalist winemaking approach ensures that what you taste is the true expression of the grape and terroir.

California Terroir

Each sip unfolds a story crafted from grapes grown in the sun-kissed vineyards of California. The wine beautifully captures the essence of the region, showcasing California's ability to produce world-class Pinot Noir with elegance and character.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Curio California Pinot Noir is more than just a bottle of wine; it's an experience waiting to be savored. Enjoy it with good company or as a perfect complement to your favorite dishes. It's a wine that enhances occasions, making it a perfect option for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Delectable Agility

This Pinot will take on whatever culinary challenge it meets with delectable agility. The wine's versatility, balanced structure, and vibrant acidity make it adaptable to various cuisines and cooking styles, from elegant fine dining to casual weeknight meals.

A Wine That Tells a Story

The Curio California Pinot Noir tells a story of minimalist winemaking, well-farmed fruit, and the pursuit of pure expression. Let the story of Curio unfold with each glass, revealing the passion and dedication of James and Lorenza Allen in creating an honest, elegant Pinot Noir that honors the varietal and the California terroir.

Experience the Elegance of J Vineyards Pinot Noir

Discover the vibrant elegance of J Vineyards Pinot Noir from California's renowned Russian River Valley. This exceptional 2022 vintage captures the essence of cool-climate winemaking with its bright, expressive character.

Tasting Notes:

• Bright sliced strawberry and citrus aromas
• Energetic mineral undertones
• Medium-bodied with vivid focus
• Crisp, refreshing finish

Expert Acclaim:
James Suckling 92 Points - "An energetic pinot with bright sliced strawberry and citrus character. Some mineral. Medium body. Vivid and focused."

Perfect Pairings:
This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses. Its bright acidity and elegant structure make it ideal for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment.

About J Vineyards:
J Vineyards has been crafting premium wines in Sonoma County since 1986, specializing in cool-climate varietals that showcase the unique terroir of Russian River Valley.

Overview of J Vineyards Pinot Noir

The J Vineyards Pinot Noir from the 2022 vintage exemplifies the artistry and dedication that the winemakers at J Vineyards pour into every bottle. Sourced primarily from the Russian River Valley, this wine is known for its lush flavors and rich aroma profile. The cool climate of this region allows the grapes to ripen slowly, leading to a full-bodied wine that maintains the characteristic finesse of Pinot Noir. With its vibrant notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle hints of earthiness, this wine is perfect for both casual sipping and special occasions.

Tasting Notes and Pairing Suggestions

The tasting notes of J Vineyards Pinot Noir are as captivating as the beautiful bottle it comes in. On the palate, you will experience layers of ripe red fruits complemented by soft tannins and a lingering finish. The wine presents aromas of fresh strawberries and a whiff of roasted coffee beans, making it an aromatic delight. This Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes such as roast chicken, salmon, or a rich mushroom risotto. Additionally, it makes for an excellent companion with gourmet cheeses, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Why Choose J Vineyards Pinot Noir?

Choosing J Vineyards Pinot Noir means selecting a wine that embodies quality, tradition, and passion. The rigorous selective harvesting process ensures that only the best grapes make it into the bottle, corresponding to the vineyard's commitment to excellence. Moreover, J Vineyards has garnered accolades and awards, making it a trusted name among wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Whether you are celebrating a special milestone, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a night in, this Pinot Noir delivers an exceptional taste profile that will impress. Elevate your wine collection today with J Vineyards Pinot Noir!

Experience the Richness of Masi Costasera Amarone

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | In the bottle with the black label, the Masi 2019 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Costasera is generous in terms of ripeness, concentration and extract. This blend of 70% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 10% Oseleta and 5% Molinara shows an inky dark appearance with baked fruit and blackberry preserves. With a 15.5% alcohol content, the wine definitely leaves its mark on all the senses. A hint of mild bitterness comes with the oak tannins. Production is 50,000 bottles 

James Suckling 94 Points | A complex and deep wine. Highlights of dark chocolate and black pepper over black cherries. Refined and condensed tannins with exuberant, racy acidity and full body. Powerful, this has cellaring potential. Drinkable now but best from 2029.

Memo Summary Notes

Primary Varietals - Corvina, Rondinella, Oseleta, Molinara

This Riserva represents Masi's excellence, a benchmark for Amarone. It's a special version of the celebrated Costasera, characterized by extended appassimento (drying) and the use of the unusual Oseleta grape for superior structure.

Introducing Masi Costasera Amarone

Masi Costasera Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Riserva 2019 is a stunning representation of Italian craftsmanship. This exceptional red wine, made from partially dried grapes, offers a rich and full-bodied taste that's perfect for special occasions. The wine features deep notes of dark fruit, spices, and a hint of chocolate, which together create a complex and layered flavor profile. So, whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply savoring a quiet evening, this wine promises an unforgettable experience.

The Unique Aging Process

The aging process of Masi Costasera Amarone plays a vital role in enhancing its flavor. The wine matures in oak barrels for a minimum of 24 months, allowing it to develop its character and complexity. This careful selection of aging materials influences its aroma and taste, resulting in a smooth yet intense finish. Therefore, every sip reflects the rich history and tradition of Valpolicella winemaking, making it a true gem for wine enthusiasts.

Perfect Pairings for Masi Costasera

Masi Costasera Amarone pairs beautifully with hearty dishes. It complements red meats, game, and aged cheeses exceptionally well. Because of its rich flavor profile, it can also stand alone as a perfect after-dinner wine, enhancing your dining experience. So, gather your friends or family, open a bottle, and indulge in the luxurious taste of Masi Costasera Amarone while enjoying a flavorful meal together.

Discover the Globetrotter's Choice: Trotamundos Pinot Noir

Our Professional Review

The Trotamundos wines are the brainchild of two winemaker friends, César Baeza and Miguel Besoain. The term “Trotamundos” translates to “globetrotter,” and their winemaking philosophy centers on creating wines with a global perspective, incorporating what they have learned while traveling throughout the wine world to craft unique expressions.

I recently tasted the Trotamundos Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Leyda Valley 2023 and was extremely pleased with its quality and value. This is a Pinot Noir that delivers exceptional drinkability without compromising quality. Sourced from the cool climate of Chile’s Leyda Valley, it showcases bright aromas and flavors of wild red berries—raspberries and strawberries—with a subtle hint of blue fruit as well.

On the palate, the wine is well structured, with vibrant red berry fruit, well-integrated acidity, and mild tannins that lead to effortless drinkability. A stony minerality adds depth and naturally complements the fruit profile. The finish is clean and refreshing, with bright, palate-cleansing acidity.

This wine is very food-friendly. I suggest pairing it with Latin-inspired dishes, grilled skirt steak, or crab-stuffed cannelloni.

Oscar Garcia Moncada

Winemaker Description 

Light-red color with a slight orange tint. Raspberries and cream on the nose, smooth in the mouth with a burst of juicy mixed berries, blood orange, and a tangy aftertaste.

Memo Summary Notes

The Trotamundos Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2023 is a cool-climate red from Chile’s Leyda Valley, a region highly regarded for producing elegant, coastal-influenced wines. This particular label is a collaboration between winemakers César Baeza and Miguel Besoaín.

The Leyda Valley is situated just 12km from the Pacific Ocean. The 2023 season benefited from the Humboldt Current, which provides cool sea breezes and morning mists. This ensures a slow ripening process, allowing the Pinot Noir grapes to maintain high natural acidity and develop complex aromatic profiles

This wine’s balance of fruit and earthiness makes it quite versatile:

• Poultry: Roasted chicken with herbs de Provence or duck breast.

• Vegetarian: Mushroom risotto or earthy lentil stews.

• Seafood: Grilled salmon or seared tuna, thanks to its bright acidity.

An Exquisite Pinot Noir Experience

Trotamundos Pinot Noir Single Vineyard DO Leyda Valley 2023 is a true masterpiece for wine enthusiasts and globetrotters alike. With its vibrant ruby color and enticing aromas of red berries, this wine captures the essence of its origin. The Leyda Valley is known for its unique climate, which allows the grapes to thrive, resulting in a wine that is both refreshing and complex. So, if you're looking to indulge your palate, this Pinot Noir should be at the top of your list.

A Perfect Pairing for Every Meal

This elegant red wine is not just for special occasions; it can enhance any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a grilled salmon or a mushroom risotto, Trotamundos Pinot Noir complements a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for your dining table. Its well-balanced acidity and smooth finish make it easy to drink and enjoy. Therefore, keep a bottle handy for your future culinary adventures!

Embrace Your Inner Globetrotter

With each sip of Trotamundos Pinot Noir, you journey to the beautiful landscapes of the Leyda Valley. This wine is crafted for those who appreciate quality and seek to explore different flavors. It invites you to embrace your inner globetrotter, allowing you to discover new experiences from the comfort of your home. Because of its rich flavor profile and exceptional quality, this Pinot Noir is sure to impress your friends and family, making every gathering memorable.

Understanding Mas Blanc i Jove 

Winemaker Description 

Petit Saó Blanc is a young white wine from Catalonia, Spain that contains Garnatxa, Macabeu, Viogner and Riesling.

Costers del Segre is a region in northwestern Catalonia. It's hilly and therefore a little cooler. This makes the area very suitable for different grape varieties than those grown in the rest of the province.

Macabeo and white Grenache are naturally abundant, but Viognier and even Riesling are also planted—for this wine, for example. 

Memo Summary Notes

Primary Varietals - Macabeu, Grenache Blanc, Viogner, Riesling

The Mas Blanch i Jové Petit Saó Blanc 2023 (often listed as Petit Blanc Saó) is a vibrant, organic white blend from the high-altitude vineyards of the Costers del Segre DO in Catalonia, Spain. It is known for its "mountain wine" freshness and unique blend of Mediterranean and continental grape varieties.

Types of Alcohol and Their Characteristics

Alcohol comes in various forms, including beer, wine, and spirits. Each type has distinct characteristics, flavors, and alcohol content. For instance, beer is typically lower in alcohol and often enjoyed casually, while spirits like vodka or whiskey have a higher concentration. Understanding these differences helps people select the right drink for each occasion.

Health Benefits of Moderate Alcohol Consumption

Many studies indicate that moderate alcohol consumption can offer some health benefits, such as improved heart health. However, moderation is key, because excessive drinking can lead to serious health risks. Therefore, enjoying a glass of red wine with dinner might be beneficial, but overindulgence can negate those advantages.

Social Aspects of Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol often plays a significant role in social gatherings and celebrations. It can enhance the enjoyment of events, bringing people together. However, it's important to consume responsibly. Alcohol should be enjoyed in moderation, ensuring everyone can have a good time while prioritizing safety and wellbeing.

Types of Alcoholic Beverages

There are various types of alcohol that cater to different tastes and preferences. The most common types include beer, wine, and spirits, each offering unique flavors and experiences. For instance, beer is often enjoyed for its refreshing nature and comes in various styles, such as lagers and ales. Wine, made from fermented grapes, offers a wide range of tastes, from sweet to dry. Spirits, which are distilled beverages like whiskey, vodka, and rum, present a stronger alcohol content, making them versatile for cocktails. Understanding these different types of alcohol can enhance your drinking experience and help you choose the right beverage for any occasion.

The Benefits of Moderate Consumption

When consumed in moderation, different types of alcohol can offer certain benefits. Research suggests that moderate wine consumption, particularly red wine, may be associated with heart health due to its antioxidants. Beer, rich in B vitamins and silica, can contribute to bone health. However, it's essential to note that moderation is key because overconsumption can lead to adverse effects. Therefore, knowing the right amount can allow you to enjoy these benefits while minimizing risks associated with excessive drinking.

Making Informed Choices

Understanding the different types of alcohol and their effects is vital for responsible drinking. It’s important to know your limits and the impact each type of alcohol can have on your body. For example, spirits can have higher alcohol concentration compared to beer or wine, so pacing yourself and choosing lighter options may sometimes be wiser. This knowledge not only helps you enjoy alcohol safely but also enriches your social experiences. As a result, you can navigate the world of alcohol with confidence and enjoyment.

The 2023 Ridge Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon marks the first return of this historic cuvée since 2007 — a blend of Monte Bello estate fruit and neighboring vineyards (Bates Ranch, Fellom Ranch, Vidovich), aged 16 months in 100% American oak. A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot, it is a superb access point to the Ridge house style at a more approachable price.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Owen Bargreen — 93 Points | Refined and elegant on the tongue, as toasty oak caresses a gorgeous core of dark currants, black cherry compote, and espresso bean notes alongside gravelly soils. Very fresh and vibrant with terrific acidity. Drink 2025–2035.

Vinous — 93 Points | Taut and structured, opening with dark fruit, cracked pepper, smoked meat, tobacco leaf, and cedar, all enshrouded in firm, chalky tannins that lead to a long, savory finish. A very fine access point to the Ridge house style. — Billy Norris

Wine Enthusiast — 93 Points + Cellar Selection | Aromas of black plum, clove, and ajwain draw in the nose, while the palate picks up licorice and more black plum alongside a firm structure. — Matt Kettmann

Wine Advocate — 92 Points | A lush nose of sweet black fruits, pine needles, sage, and a gourmand touch of vanilla pod introduces a soft, velvety, and pliable palate, ending with a pure, mouthwatering finish. A solid, accessible, and over-performing example of Santa Cruz Mountain Cabernet. — Matthew Luczy

Wine Spectator — 92 Points | Lively singed mesquite and savory notes up front, with juicy red currant, bitter cherry, and plum coulis held in check by nicely chiseled tannins. Best from 2027 through 2038. — James Molesworth

• Producer: Ridge Vineyards
• Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, California
• Vineyards: Monte Bello Estate + Bates Ranch, Fellom Ranch, Vidovich
• Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot
• Aging: 16 months, 100% American oak
• Farming: Organic
• Vintage: 2023
• Drink: Now through 2038
• Format: 750ml

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2021

Vinous 94 Points (Audrey Frick): Opens with rosemary, Mediterranean herbs, ripe cherries, and forest earth. Medium to full-bodied and classic in style, with well-defined tannins, bright acidity, and a long finish that keeps it fresh and balanced. Showing very well today and should drink beautifully over the next 15 years or more. Drink 2026–2041.

Winemaker Description

Le Ragnaie is perched at high elevation just south of the hill of Montalcino, led by Ricardo and Jennifer Campinoti. The estate produces some of the most compelling single-vineyard expressions of Brunello, with clarity, focus, and distinction between each cru. This 2021 is sourced from a selection of top vineyard sites, fermented in concrete with 35 days of skin contact, then aged three years in large Slavonian oak casks. Lifted aromas of dark cherry, ripe plum, and subtle spice, with a graceful, structured palate, fine-grained tannins, and a long, elegant finish.

Previous vintage (2020) earned 95pts Wine Advocate, 94pts Jeb Dunnuck, 93pts James Suckling & Vinous.

Pairing Suggestions

• Red Meat: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised short ribs, or lamb.
• Game: Wild boar, venison, or duck.
• Cheese: Aged Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Taleggio.