90 + Points | Critical Acclaim

Laherte Frères Ultradition Brut NV — Champagne

Laherte Frères is a benchmark grower-producer in Chavot, farming biodynamically and organically across 10 hectares in the Côte des Blancs and Vallée de la Marne. The Ultradition is their signature cuvée — a multi-vintage blend anchored by old-vine Pinot Meunier, built to express terroir transparency and minimal intervention. Wine Spectator awarded it 92 points, calling it “vivid” and “clean-cut and minerally on the finish.” John Gilman added 92+ points, praising its “superb soil signature, refined mousse, and a very long, complex, dancing finish.” At this price, it is one of the most compelling values in grower Champagne.

The nose opens with white peach, spring flowers, chalky soil tones, gentle smokiness, and a dollop of brioche. On the palate it is full-bodied and extremely elegant — pure, with a fine core, refined mousse, and a long, dancing finish of citrus and mineral. Pinot Meunier at its most expressive.

Wine Spectator 92 • Vinous 92 • John Gilman 92+ — “Pure, full-bodied, and extremely elegant, with a very long, complex and dancing finish.”

• Producer: Laherte Frères, Chavot, Champagne, France
• Style: Brut NV
• Blend: 60% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Dosage: 6–8 g/L
• Farming: Biodynamic, Organic
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White peach, spring flowers, chalk, brioche, citrus, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, lobster, sushi, aged Comté, roast chicken, caviar

A 92-point biodynamic grower Champagne at an honest price — Laherte Frères’ Ultradition is the benchmark for what Pinot Meunier-driven Champagne can be.

Winemaker Description

Produced from a small walled vineyard close to the Lanson winery in Reims, this is a splendid wine. Its richness is balanced by the intense freshness and minerality of the Chardonnay, with apple and citrus flavors that still in the background. Now mature, this wine is ready to drink.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast 97 Points | Produced from a small walled vineyard close to the Lanson winery in Reims, this is a splendid wine. Its richness is balanced by the intense freshness and minerality of the Chardonnay, with apple and citrus flavors that still in the background. Now mature, this wine is ready to drink.

Wine Advocate 94 Points | Disgorged in July 2016 with only three grams per liter dosage, the 2007 Brut Blanc de Blancs Clos Lanson is showing very well indeed, unwinding in the glass with notes of dried white flowers, citrus oil, toasted brioche, oyster shell and smoke. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and vibrant, with a racy spine of acidity, good concentration and chalky structuring extract. This is quite a tightly knit, tensile wine, despite the warm mesoclimate and two years on cork, which suggests it will enjoy a long future.

Vinous 93 Points | Clos Lanson's 2007 Brut Blanc de Blancs is a very pretty, soft Champagne that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring. Bright citrus and floral notes, along with soft contours, give much of its immediacy and sheer allure. Understated and classy, the 2007 will drink well for a number of years, but it is also remarkably giving and enjoyable today for a relatively young Blanc de Blancs. Although it is not super-complex, the 2007 offers quite a bit of freshness and character. An open bottle was still in great shape when I re-tasted it a few days later. Disgorged: July 2016.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Fragrant, featuring lime blossom and ground spice notes, this fine and creamy Champagne offers a broad range of lemon parfait, chopped hazelnut, spun honey and dried cherry flavors, underscored by chalky minerality. Elegant and well-knit, with a firm, focused finish. Disgorged July 2016. Drink now through 2030. 665 cases made.

Lanson Champagne Père & Fils Brut — Champagne NV

Founded in 1760, Lanson is one of Champagne’s most storied and consistent houses — and the Père & Fils Brut is its definitive expression. Crafted by chef de cave Hervé Dantan from 50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay, and 15% Meunier sourced from 100 villages across the region, with 30% reserve wines spanning 10 vintages back to 1995, this is a non-vintage Champagne of remarkable depth, consistency, and integrity. Four years on the lees — well above the minimum — adds richness, complexity, and a fine toasty character that sets it apart from the crowd. Decanter calls it “one of the best and most consistent of the bargain set.” At this price, it is hard to argue.

The nose is fresh and inviting: green apple, pear, pie crust, and a touch of toast from extended lees aging. On the palate, it is ripe and well-balanced — Pinot Noir’s weight and red fruit character is lifted by Chardonnay’s precision and fine bubbles, with a crisp, dry finish of real elegance. Already drinking beautifully, with the structure to reward short-term cellaring.

Decanter 92 — “A class act and a resounding statement of talent. One of the best and most consistent of the bargain set.”
Wine Enthusiast 92 — “Back on form, giving a ripe style dominated by Pinot Noir. Fine balance between the fruits and touches of toast from four years on the lees.”
James Suckling 92 — “A fresh, balanced palate with green apples, pie crust and pears. Fine bubbles and a crisp, dry finish.”

• Producer: Lanson, Reims, Champagne, France
• Founded: 1760
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: 50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay, 15% Meunier
• Sources: 100 villages across Champagne
• Reserve Wines: 30% across 10 vintages
• Aging: 4 years on the lees
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, pear, pie crust, red fruit, toast, fine bubbles, crisp dry finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, smoked salmon, grilled fish, soft cheeses, charcuterie, light appetizers

Founded in 1760, scoring 92 across the board, and priced for every occasion — Lanson Père & Fils is the Champagne house that history and critics agree on.

The Apalta Valley in Colchagua sits at the convergence of the Andes and the Pacific, where steep granite slopes and cooling ocean breezes conspire to produce Cabernet Sauvignon of uncommon depth and precision. Lapostolle's Cuvée Alexandre has long been the benchmark expression of this terroir — and the 2022 vintage is among its finest in recent memory.

The nose is layered and expressive: dark cherry, fresh blueberry, and crushed stone open to hints of rosemary, sage, graphite, and a whisper of olive. On the palate, the wine is structured and vertical yet fluid at its core, with crunchy tannins that grip cleanly and a long, fruit-driven finish that rewards patience. It strikes a coveted balance — rich and approachable today, but built to evolve.

Best from 2025, though already showing beautifully with a decant. Pair with grass-fed ribeye, lamb chops with herbs, or aged hard cheeses.

Appellation: Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2022
Format: 750ml

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2022
94 pts — James Suckling | “Well-structured and vertical… a long, fruit-expressive finish. Drink from 2025.”
92 pts — Wine Advocate | “A desirable balance between soft, creamy approachability and a serious expression of its origins.”
91 pts — Wine Enthusiast | “Fruity and fresh… integrated notes of wood spices that enhance dark berry flavors.”
88 pts — Wine Spectator

Latitude is Larmandier-Bernier's generous, beautifully textured expression of Chardonnay from the southern reaches of Vertus in the Côte des Blancs. Where the estate's Longitude is linear and chalk-driven, Latitude comes from richer soils with deeper topsoil, yielding a broader, rounder and more immediately seductive Champagne — while retaining the purity and mineral energy for which Larmandier-Bernier is celebrated. The name refers to the vineyards, all situated along roughly the same latitude south of Vertus, with predominantly east- and southeast-facing exposures.

The 2022-based release incorporates 60% base wine from the 2022 harvest and 40% reserve wines drawn from the estate's perpetual reserve, established in 2004. Grapes are gently pressed and lightly clarified before going directly into wood, where alcoholic and malolactic fermentations begin spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in Stockinger casks and vats. The wine rests on its lees during the first year without fining or filtration, then spends more than two additional years aging in bottle before disgorgement in September 2024 with a dosage of just 2 g/L — firmly Extra Brut.

Expert Reviews - Base 2022

94 Vinous: "Bright, punchy and full of mineral-driven intensity. Crushed flowers, lemon peel, sage, mint and crushed rocks build as this potent, intensely saline Champagne opens in the glass. This is impressive. The Latitude is a Champagne built on textural breadth and volume, typical of wines from the southern sector of Vertus."

92 Jeb Dunnuck: "Opening to pure notes of quince and light tropical notes, with a hint of white flowers, lychee, and shortbread, it's medium-bodied on the palate, fruity, elegant, and powdery, yet it retains its ripeness and a meringue-like quality, with a fluffy and refined mousse."

91 Wine Advocate: "Blossoming in the glass with aromas of pear, peach, lemon confit and freshly baked bread. It reveals a medium- to full-bodied, fleshy yet racy palate that is rich and giving, underpinned by ripe yet vibrant acidity and concluding with a long, resonant finish."

Tasting Notes

Broad, expressive and beautifully concentrated, the 2022-based Latitude opens with ripe pear, peach and lemon confit alongside fresh bread, tangerine peel and subtle marzipan. As it develops, hints of mint, flowers and chalk add lift and complexity. The palate is rich and ample yet remains energetic — ripe acidity balances the wine's generous fruit and creamy texture, while a persistent mineral freshness carries through the long, resonant finish. Delicious now, with enough structure and depth to reward additional bottle age.

Food Pairing

Excellent as an aperitif or alongside oysters, scallops, lobster, sushi, roast chicken, creamy seafood dishes, soft cheeses and richer fish preparations.

Specifications

Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Sub-Region: Côte des Blancs
Village: Vertus
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Blanc de Blancs / Extra Brut
Dosage: 2 g/L — Extra Brut
Base Vintage: 2022
Blend: 60% 2022 base wine, 40% perpetual reserve (est. 2004)
Soils: Deep chalk with richer topsoil
Exposure: Predominantly east and southeast-facing
Farming: Organic / biodynamic
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts; spontaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation
Disgorgement: September 2024
ABV: 12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Larmandier-Bernier

Longitude is Larmandier-Bernier's chalk-driven, Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs — a wine of remarkable precision and mineral energy that captures the essence of the Côte des Blancs. Made entirely from Chardonnay grown along the celebrated north-to-south line of villages near the 4th meridian — Vertus, Oger, Avize, Cramant and Chouilly — the wine takes its name from this near-straight longitudinal axis of vineyards. Where the estate's Latitude is broad and generous, Longitude is linear, taut and intensely mineral.

The 2021-based release is composed of approximately 60% wine from the cool, energetic 2021 vintage together with 40% from the estate's perpetual reserve, established in 2004. Grapes are gently pressed before undergoing spontaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation with indigenous yeasts, then fermented and matured in wood on their natural lees without fining or filtration. After blending and tirage, the Champagne undergoes extended bottle maturation before disgorgement in April 2024 with a dosage of just 2 g/L — firmly Extra Brut.

Expert Reviews

93 Decanter: "There's an extra dash of mineral energy and zesty length in this cuvée. Subtly creamy and peppery, yet fulsome in white peach, pear and lemon oil, it gains a savoury, umami depth from 40% addition of perpetual reserve. Always a model non-vintage blanc de blancs."

92 Jeb Dunnuck: "More focus and a compact, linear drive from more chalky soils, with notes of lemon candy, Anjou pear, and a very pretty floral perfume. Medium-bodied, it has a refreshing and fine mousse, with pleasing lift and a clean finish."

92 Wine Advocate: "A considerable increase in intensity and tension compared to Latitude. Medium-bodied, taut and incisive in personality. Offers aromas of white flowers, citrus fruit and oyster shell. Tangy acidity, informed by the long and cool growing season, with mineral-laden undertones, leads to a chalky, long-lasting finish."

92 Wine Spectator: "Hints of lime blossom and pink grapefruit sorbet are a citrusy thread through this sleek, finely knit Champagne. It's racy and lightly spiced, with flavors of yellow plum and chalky mineral set on the delicate mousse."

Tasting Notes

Bright, focused and intensely mineral, the 2021-based Longitude opens with white flowers, fresh citrus, green apple and subtle oyster-shell notes. The palate is taut and energetic — tangy acidity framed by chalk, crushed stone, citrus peel and a delicate saline character. Elegant rather than broad, it finishes long, dry and exceptionally precise. This is classic Côte des Blancs Chardonnay: pure, linear and refreshing, with enough depth from the perpetual reserve to add complexity without sacrificing the wine's crystalline personality.

Food Pairing

An outstanding aperitif and a natural partner for oysters, shellfish, sashimi, sushi, grilled white fish, scallops, fresh goat cheese and delicate poultry dishes.

Specifications

Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Sub-Region: Côte des Blancs
Villages: Vertus, Oger, Avize, Cramant, Chouilly
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Blanc de Blancs / Extra Brut
Dosage: 2 g/L — Extra Brut
Base Vintage: 2021
Blend: ~60% 2021 base wine, 40% perpetual reserve (est. 2004)
Farming: Biodynamic / organic
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts; spontaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation; aged in wood on lees
Disgorgement: April 2024
ABV: 12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Larmandier-Bernier

Terre de Vertus is one of Larmandier-Bernier's most celebrated single-terroir Champagnes — a vintage Blanc de Blancs drawn entirely from Chardonnay grown in the Premier Cru village of Vertus. The fruit comes from two plots within the Les Barillers lieu-dit, situated mid-slope with a southeast exposure, a site the estate has vinified separately since 1995. Farmed biodynamically and fermented spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in old oak casks and large wooden foudres, the wine rests on its lees through winter before undergoing secondary fermentation in bottle and more than five years of additional lees aging. The 2017 was disgorged in May 2023 with zero dosage — no sugar added — preserving the vineyard's exceptionally pure, dry and mineral expression.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2017

93 Wine Advocate: "The 2017 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Terre de Vertus imparts a very mineral, almost crystalline character. A vineyard that rarely produces powerful wines, even in the context of 2017, it has retained its personality, though it's a little more generous and slightly less focused than the 2016 rendition. Unfurling from the glass with aromas of lemon peel, honeysuckle and oyster shell, it is medium-bodied, racy and saline-tinged."

93 Vinous: "Creamy, open-knit and quite seductive. Readers will find a generous, sensual Champagne with plenty of early appeal. Dried pear, crushed flowers, mint and chamomile build beautifully over time. This is a fine effort in a very challenging year."

Tasting Notes

Precise, expressive and intensely mineral. The nose opens with lemon peel, dried pear and delicate floral notes, followed by honeysuckle, mint, chamomile and a distinctive oyster-shell salinity. The palate is creamy and generous yet beautifully energized — fine acidity and a taut mineral backbone carry through to a finish that is dry, racy, saline and exceptionally pure. Oak fermentation lends supple texture; zero dosage ensures nothing stands between you and the terroir of Vertus.

Food Pairing

An exceptional partner for oysters and shellfish, sashimi, sushi, scallops, grilled or roasted white fish, lobster, roast poultry and aged cheeses. Its saline character and zero dosage make it especially compelling alongside seafood and dishes built around fresh herbs or citrus.

Specifications

Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Sub-Region: Côte des Blancs
Village: Vertus
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Blanc de Blancs / Brut Nature / Non Dosé
Dosage: 0 g/L — Zero Dosage
Vintage: 2017
Vineyard: Les Barillers lieu-dit
Farming: Biodynamic
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts in old oak casks and large wooden foudres
Aging: 5+ years on the lees in bottle
Disgorgement: May 2023
ABV: 12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Larmandier-Bernier

Vieille Vigne du Levant is one of Larmandier-Bernier's most profound and sought-after Champagnes — a single-vineyard Blanc de Blancs produced entirely from old-vine Chardonnay in the Grand Cru village of Cramant. The parcel, known as Bourron du Levant, faces east toward the rising sun, producing grapes of remarkable concentration, ripeness and mineral intensity. The vines are approximately 60 to more than 85 years old, with deep root systems that penetrate the chalk-rich soils of the Côte des Blancs, giving the wine exceptional depth and complexity while retaining the precision and energy that define Larmandier-Bernier.

Farmed biodynamically, the grapes are gently pressed before undergoing spontaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation with indigenous yeasts in Stockinger casks and vats. The wine is matured on its lees during its first year without fining or filtration, followed by extended bottle aging in the estate's cool cellars. As a true vintage, single-parcel Champagne, there is no blending with other years or vineyard sites. The 2014 was disgorged in March and September 2023 with a dosage of just 2 g/L, allowing the character of Cramant and the old vines to remain entirely at the forefront.

Expert Reviews

95 Wine Advocate: "The 2014 Blanc de Blancs Vieille Vigne du Levant rises from the glass with aromas of citrus oil, peach and pear, mingled with notes of freshly baked bread. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied, concentrated and incisive, with a deep core of fruit, considerable tension, racy acidity and a precise, saline finish. Expect a slightly more powerful and more giving rendition than the 2013 and simultaneously a touch more tensile."

94 Vinous: "A gorgeous, vinous Champagne. It emerges from 60-to-80-year-old vines on Cramant's east-facing slope. Tangerine peel, hazelnut, spice, menthol and dried flowers are all signs of a Champagne that has arrived at its peak of maturity. Even so, the balance here is exquisite. Readers seeking Champagne with a bit of bottle-age complexity will adore this."

Tasting Notes

Deep, vinous and beautifully concentrated, the 2014 opens with citrus oil, ripe pear and peach alongside freshly baked bread. With air, more mature nuances emerge — tangerine peel, hazelnut, dried flowers, spice and subtle menthol. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, combining remarkable richness with racy acidity and striking tension. A pronounced chalky, saline mineral character carries through the exceptionally long, precise finish. This is a Champagne of both power and refinement, showing the complexity of mature old-vine Chardonnay without sacrificing freshness. Delicious now, it also has the structure and concentration for continued aging.

Food Pairing

Superb on its own as a contemplative aperitif, Vieille Vigne du Levant is equally impressive at the table. Pair with roast poultry, chicken with morels, lobster, scallops, turbot and creamy seafood dishes or preparations with rich cream-based sauces.

Specifications

Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Sub-Region: Côte des Blancs
Village: Cramant
Classification: Grand Cru
Style: Blanc de Blancs / Extra Brut
Dosage: 2 g/L — Extra Brut
Vintage: 2014
Vineyard: Bourron du Levant
Vine Age: ~60 to 85+ years
Farming: Biodynamic
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts in Stockinger casks and vats; aged on lees without fining or filtration
Disgorgement: March / September 2023
ABV: 12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Larmandier-Bernier

Producer Description 

Las Beatas is a spectacular 1.9 hectare property which Telmo and Pablo have invested tremendous time and energy: 15 years of renovative viticultural work took place before a single bottle was made.

There are at least ten grape varieties grown on eight terraces, predominantly Tempranillo with 30% Garnacha, some Viura and traces of many other rare, perhaps unidentified cultivars, all planted on cold sandy soils. Las Beatas was made and aged in a single 1200 liter old French foudre. This is a refined, elegant and fluid wine with great complexity and nuance that will age beautifully. 

Expert Reviews 

Audrey Frick writes: (Tasted November 7, 2022) The NV Champagne La Cuvée Brut Rosé is entirely Pinot Noir from 10 crus in the Montagne de Reims. It is forward in the glass with ripe currants, fresh herbs, and smoky perfume. This continues to the palate, with notes of ripe wild raspberry and tangerine, and it has a medium to full-bodied texture that is pure and lightly savory on the finish. Fantastically paired with beef tartar and other richer raw preparations, this is a wonderful and food-friendly expression. Drink 2022-2032.  - Jeb Dunnuck 92

Winemaker Description 

A white gold in color with delicate and persistent bubbles, Grand Siecle No. 26 offers a very complex nose which mixes honeysuckle, lemon, clementine and fresh butter aromas, followed by notes of hazelnut and a touch of honey. The feel in the mouth is very delicate and fresh with candied lemon and fresh hazelnut aromas. The palate is silky and mineral with notes of honeysuckle, flaked almonds and clementine.

It pairs with high quality produce and refined dishes, including shellfish, noble fish and white meats such as Thai style langoustine tartare and fine roasted poultry.

Expert Reviews

100 James Suckling James Suckling's #1 Wine of 2023 |  This is really something. Electric on the palate. The aromas are so complex with sliced fresh and dried ginger, subtle pie crust, tarte tatin and hints of nutmeg with some salted caramel. Toasted bread, too. Always subtle. The palate is full- to medium-bodied yet hemmed-in with a freshness and balance that draws you back. Savory and vibrant. It's full of energy. Spectacular. Fascinating. Symphonic blend of 2012, 2008 and 2007. 65% of the 2012, 25% of the 2008 and 10% of the 2007. Eight grand cru. Chardonnay 58% and 42% pinot noir. Disgorged February 2023. 10 years on the lees. 7g/L dosage.

97 Points Wine Enthusiast | Tautly textured, the Champagne is delicious with a poise between white and citrus fruits along with touches of maturity coming through. Drink this magnificent wine now for its great balance and intensity.

96 Points Decanter | This iteration of Grand Siècle is almost entirely composed of two of Champagne's greatest recent vintages, so expectations are high. The wine more than meets them, tempering the generosity of 2012's fruit – ripe apricots, white peach, clementines and sunny, zesty citrus – with a pitch-perfect streak of 2008 tautness and structure. There are some fleshy, creamy notes of papaya and toasted white sourdough, but everything is as delicately rendered as expected and impeccably shaped, with a sleek, silky mousse. A little more approachable than Itération No. 25, it will welcome extended bottle age rather than demand it. The blend is 58% Chardonnay and 42% Pinot Noir from eight grand cru vineyards. 65% is from the 2012 vintage, 35% from 2008 and 10% from 2007.

96 Points Robert Parker | Unfurling in the glass with scents of crisp nectarine, pear and honeyed citrus fruit that mingle with notions of fresh mint, blanched almonds and iodine, the wine is full-bodied, concentrated and tightly wound, with broad structural shoulders, tangy acids and a long, intense finish. It's a great Grand Siècle in the making.

95 Points Wine Spectator | A graceful Champagne, with flavors of boysenberry and black cherry fruit, toast, blanched almond and grapefruit pith, graphite and fleur de sel gliding across the satiny mousse. Reveals racy acidity that sculpts fine definition, allowing the detailed profile to expand on the palate, while minerally hints of chalk and oyster shell linger on the finish. 

Le C de Calon Ségur | Saint-Estèphe AOC | Bordeaux, France | 2022

Le C de Calon Ségur — formerly known as Le Marquis de Calon Ségur — is the second wine of Château Calon Ségur, one of Saint-Estèphe's most distinguished and storied estates. Classified as a Grand Cru Classé, Château Calon Ségur has been producing wines of exceptional quality on the Left Bank of Bordeaux for centuries, and Le C offers a different, more immediately approachable interpretation of the same celebrated Calon terroir.

Saint-Estèphe is the northernmost of the Haut-Médoc's great communes, known for producing Bordeaux's most structured and age-worthy reds. Its heavy clay soils retain moisture and moderate the growing season, giving Saint-Estèphe wines their characteristic depth, firm tannins, and remarkable longevity. The 2022 vintage is widely regarded as one of the finest in recent Bordeaux history — a warm, dry year that produced wines of exceptional concentration, balance, and aging potential.

Le C de Calon Ségur 2022 is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, aged approximately 17 months in oak barrels (30% new). Deep ruby-purple in the glass. The nose offers plum, blackcurrant, damson, dark cherry, and cocoa, with notes of garrigue, damp earth, and subtle spice. On the palate, medium to full-bodied with firm, well-integrated tannins, generous dark fruit, bright acidity, and a long, structured, savory finish. Deliciously expressive now, with excellent aging potential.

Pair with roast lamb, braised beef, duck confit, aged cheeses, and hearty Bordeaux-style dishes.

• Producer: Château Calon Ségur (Second Wine)
• Appellation: Saint-Estèphe AOC, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2022
• Aging: ~17 months in oak (30% new)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Le Marquis de Calon Segur Saint-Estephe 2023 750ml

Explore Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur: a premium Saint-Estèphe wine. This distinguished second wine from Château Calon-Ségur has earned 94 points from James Suckling, 93 points from Wine Advocate, 91 points from Vinous Media, and 91 points from Decanter. The 2023 vintage is a blend of 50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. The Marquis of Calon-Ségur reflects the unique terroir of the Saint-Estèphe region, known for its exceptional soil and climate that nurture high-quality grapes.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling - 94 Points

Graphite and dark fruit come through clearly on the nose and follow through to a medium body with dusty tannins and a juicy finish. Attractive and pure fruit with a hint of chocolate at the end. A solid second wine for Calon Segur. 50% merlot, 48% cabernet sauvignon, 1% petit verdot and 1% cabernet franc. Drink after 2027.

Wine Advocate - 93 Points (91-93)

The 2023 Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur is a blend of 50% Merlot and 48% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, incorporating the estate's finest Merlot plots that generally go into the grand vin but which didn't match with Calon's best Cabernet Sauvignon lots this year. Offering up aromas of cassis, plums, burning embers and spices, framed by a deft touch of new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and structured, with impressive density and muscle, built for the cellar.

Vinous Media - 91 Points

The 2023 Le Marquis de Calon Ségur has a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, clean and precise, classic in style with estuarine/briny scents in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins but there is still a firm backbone to this Deuxième Vin, and it gently fans out on the graphite-tinged finish. One of the best Le Marquis in recent years.

Decanter - 91 Points

Dark fragrance to the nose. A little tight but this also has an ease about it with density to the grippy tannins that have a fruity, fleshy aspect to them as well as a clear wet stone, slate minerality that lingers on the tongue. A little firm on the finish, but structured and polished still with a juicy mouthwatering red cherry centre. Will be nice to taste it calms. Not so long but there's nice character here nonetheless. 3.6pH. Ageing 17 months, 30% new. 1% Petit Verdot completes the blend.

Château Calon-Ségur - Legendary Estate

Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur is the second wine of Château Calon-Ségur, one of Bordeaux's most legendary estates. The estate has a rich history and produces wines of exceptional quality.

Second Wine - Solid Quality

A solid second wine for Calon Segur. Second wines offer excellent value while maintaining the estate's quality standards.

One of the Best Le Marquis in Recent Years

One of the best Le Marquis in recent years. The 2023 vintage represents exceptional quality for this second wine.

Saint-Estèphe - Bordeaux, France

From the Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux, France. Saint-Estèphe is known for producing powerful, structured wines with excellent aging potential.

Unique Terroir of Saint-Estèphe

The Marquis of Calon-Ségur reflects the unique terroir of the Saint-Estèphe region, known for its exceptional soil and climate that nurture high-quality grapes.

Gravelly Soils

This wine is crafted from a blend of carefully selected varietals, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives in the area's gravelly soils. The terroir imparts distinctive character.

2023 Vintage

The 2023 vintage showcases exceptional quality. This year produced wines of remarkable concentration and balance.

Blend: 50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

50% merlot, 48% cabernet sauvignon, 1% petit verdot and 1% cabernet franc. This blend is Merlot-dominant, unusual for Saint-Estèphe.

Finest Merlot Plots

Incorporating the estate's finest Merlot plots that generally go into the grand vin but which didn't match with Calon's best Cabernet Sauvignon lots this year. This makes the 2023 Le Marquis particularly special.

Ageing 17 Months, 30% New Oak

Ageing 17 months, 30% new oak. The oak aging is carefully calibrated to complement the fruit without overwhelming it.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep ruby red
Aroma: Graphite and dark fruit. Aromas of cassis, plums, burning embers and spices. Mixture of red and black fruit. Dark fragrance. Bouquet of dark fruits like blackcurrant and plum, intertwined with subtle notes of cedar and spice
Palate: Medium body. Medium to full-bodied. Dusty tannins. Deep and structured. Impressive density and muscle. Pliant tannins with firm backbone. Grippy tannins with fruity, fleshy aspect. Rich blackberry, delicate chocolate, and hints of vanilla. Luxurious mouthfeel
Finish: Juicy finish. Graphite-tinged finish. Wet stone, slate minerality lingers. Juicy mouthwatering red cherry centre. Hint of chocolate at the end. Lingers long

Graphite & Dark Fruit

Graphite and dark fruit come through clearly on the nose and follow through to the palate. The graphite character is distinctive and adds complexity.

Aromas of Cassis, Plums, Burning Embers & Spices

Offering up aromas of cassis, plums, burning embers and spices. The aromatic complexity is exceptional.

Mixture of Red & Black Fruit

Has a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, clean and precise. The fruit expression is pure and well-defined.

Classic in Style

Classic in style with estuarine/briny scents in the background. The maritime influence is characteristic of Saint-Estèphe.

Dark Fragrance

Dark fragrance to the nose that is inviting and complex. The aromatic profile is rich and layered.

Deft Touch of New Oak

Framed by a deft touch of new oak that enhances without dominating. The oak integration is skillful.

Medium Body

Medium body provides elegance and drinkability. The palate is medium-bodied with excellent balance.

Medium to Full-Bodied

It's medium to full-bodied, offering substance and structure. The wine has presence and weight.

Dusty Tannins

With dusty tannins that provide structure. The tannin texture is fine and well-integrated.

Deep & Structured

Deep and structured, demonstrating serious winemaking. The wine has depth and complexity.

Impressive Density & Muscle

With impressive density and muscle, built for the cellar. The concentration is remarkable.

Pliant Tannins with Firm Backbone

With pliant tannins but there is still a firm backbone to this Deuxième Vin. The structure is excellent.

Grippy Tannins - Fruity & Fleshy

Density to the grippy tannins that have a fruity, fleshy aspect to them. The tannins are substantial yet approachable.

Wet Stone, Slate Minerality

As well as a clear wet stone, slate minerality that lingers on the tongue. The mineral character adds complexity and freshness.

Juicy Finish

And a juicy finish that is refreshing and satisfying. The finish is mouthwatering and appealing.

Graphite-Tinged Finish

And it gently fans out on the graphite-tinged finish. The mineral character persists through the finish.

Juicy Mouthwatering Red Cherry Centre

But structured and polished still with a juicy mouthwatering red cherry centre. The fruit core is vibrant and pure.

Attractive & Pure Fruit

Attractive and pure fruit showcasing quality fruit selection. The fruit character is clean and expressive.

Hint of Chocolate at the End

With a hint of chocolate at the end adding richness. This subtle note adds sophistication.

Robust Structure & Depth

The distinct characteristics of Saint-Estèphe impart a robust structure and depth to the wine. Each sip reveals the essence of the land.

Vibrant & Complex

Offering a taste that is both vibrant and complex, making it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Built for the Cellar

Built for the cellar with excellent aging potential. Drink after 2027 for optimal enjoyment.

Drink After 2027

Drink after 2027 to allow the wine to develop fully. The wine will reward patience.

Harmonious Blend

This harmonious blend creates a luxurious mouthfeel that lingers long after the last sip. Showcasing the winemaker's expertise and commitment to excellence.

Transitions from Casual to Fine Dining

It's a wine that transitions beautifully from casual gatherings to fine dining experiences. The versatility is remarkable.

Versatile Food Pairing

Perfect with:

• Roasted meats (lamb and beef)
• Rich, creamy cheeses
• Chocolate desserts
• Classic French coq au vin
• Hearty beef stew
• Grilled steaks

Complements Savory Roasted Meats

Its bold profile complements a variety of culinary delights, from savory roasted meats like lamb and beef. The wine stands up beautifully to rich foods.

Perfect with Rich, Creamy Cheeses

To rich, creamy cheeses and decadent chocolate desserts. The pairing possibilities are extensive.

Elevates Flavors of the Meal

Consider pairing it with a classic French coq au vin or a hearty beef stew, allowing the wine's rich character to elevate the flavors of the meal.

Enhances Every Culinary Experience

Whether at a dinner party or a special occasion, this exquisite wine enhances every culinary experience. Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur is not just a wine; it's an experience.

Producer Description 

The wine is a crimson-hued garnet red. The nose reveals red berry fruit aromas combined with delicate floral notes of peony and fresh mint. A dense and muscular attack leads into a full-bodied mid-palate whose juicy and expressive substance is underlined by well-rounded, silky tannins. The long and balanced finish lingers on notes of spice, especially white pepper.

Expert Reviews - 2021 Vintage

James Suckling 95 Points | This is surprisingly full-bodied and round, reflecting the warmth and sunny exposure of the vineyard around the chateau. Tangy and vivid with currants, fresh flowers and plenty of energy and length. Delicate yet ripe. 77% cabernet sauvignon, 19.5% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 0.5% petit verdot. Needs two or three years to come together completely. Drink after 2027.

Jeb Dunnuck 91-93 Points | The second wine of this great estate, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton De Mouton Rothschild checks in as 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19.5% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, brought up in 50% new barrels. It has plenty of class and charm, with pure Cabernet notes of cassis, graphite, tobacco, and damp earth. These carry to a medium-bodied, balanced, elegant, seamless wine with fine tannins, integrated oak, and a great finish.

Vinous 90-92 Points |  Representing 40% of the total volume, a little more than usual, the 2021 Le Petit-Mouton, is aged in 50% new oak. A very Cabernet nose with conspicuous graphite scents infusing the black fruit, a little Earl Grey in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy opening, not amazingly complex but well balanced with fine tannins and just a pinch of black pepper on the finish. Classic in style, it should give 15-20 years of drinking pleasure.

Decanter 92 Points | Beautifully fragrant strawberries and red cherries, just so perfumed and appealing, really a very lovely nose drawing you in. An excellent Petit Mouton in 2021; serious intensity here but also such a liveliness as well as creaminess. It has weight and layers while having fruit intensity and a core of aromatics. There's a softness and delicacy in terms of the tannins and frame - beguiling - but a real base of concentrated blue, red and black fruits - strawberries, red cherries and blackcurrants. You get the stony tones and the clove on the finish but this feels round, expansive and approachable. It's uber glamorous, still with freshness and lift. A gorgeous wine with lots going on! 0.5% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.73pH. 14% press wine.

Wine Advocate 89-91 Points | Since Mouton-Rothschild itself this year derives exclusively from the two plateaus that always make up the core of the blend, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton benefits from the inclusion of parcels that often make it into the grand vin. Exhibiting aromas of crème de cassis, mint, cigar wrapper, violets and espresso roast, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and fleshy, with a rich core of fruit, powdery tannins, succulent acids and a persistent finish. Characterful and beautifully made, I wonder if I'm being a little severe with my score?

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.

Le Sughere di Frassinello Maremma Toscana — Tuscany 2022

Le Sughere di Frassinello is the flagship red of the Frassinello estate — a joint venture between Rocca di Frassinello and the Castellare di Castellina family on Tuscany’s wild, sun-drenched Maremma coast. Blending Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon from coastal vineyards where the Mediterranean influence tempers the heat and concentrates flavor, this is a Super Tuscan that delivers serious complexity without sacrificing drinkability. James Suckling awarded it 91 points; Vinous 90. At under $27, it is one of the most compelling values in coastal Tuscan wine.

Deep ruby in color. The nose is broad and expressive: ripe dark berries, plum skin, blueberry jam, dried orange, blue flowers, and cedar. On the palate, it is juicy and tense, with firm, ripe tannins, impressive fruit concentration, and a long, enveloping finish of black cherry and spice. It delivers the bold, coastal personality that only great Maremma Sangiovese can — and will reward another 5–8 years in the cellar.

James Suckling 91 — “Aromas of ripe dark berries, plum skin and blueberry jam with hints of blue flowers, dried oranges, spices and cedar. Juicy and tense on the palate, with firm tannins and impressive fruit concentration. Succulent and easy to drink.” (Vintage 2022).

Vinous 90 — “Bold, racy and super-expressive right out of the gate. Black cherry, spice, leather and a kiss of French oak open first. This aromatic, inviting coastal red has so much to offer in its engaging personality.” (Vintage 2022). 

Bart, 67Wine Buyer — “This beautifully crafted Super Tuscan will impress everyone at the table with its succulent fruit, plush texture, and savory complexity.”

• Producer: Frassinello Estate, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Maremma Toscana DOC
• Blend: Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark berries, plum, blueberry, dried orange, cedar, black cherry, spice
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–8 years
• Best Paired With: Wild boar, braised short ribs, game birds, full-flavored pasta, aged Pecorino

A 91-point Super Tuscan at an honest price — Le Sughere di Frassinello is the benchmark for what coastal Maremma can be.

A fantastic Rhone from Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf du Pape 2023 

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 95 Points
"An attractive, layered, velvety, and poised Châteauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of cherries, strawberries, dried herbs, tar, and baking spices. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Succulent and well composed. There’s elegance here, yet it has character and structure. Seductive and flavorful with a long finish."

Jeb Dunnuck — 92–94 Points (Barrel Sample)
"The 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape will be beautiful, with a charming, soft, supple, forward style. Ripe red and black fruits, peppery herbs, and lavender notes all define the bouquet, and it hits the palate with medium-to-full-bodied richness, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, and sweet tannins. Based on 75% Grenache, 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault — 50% destemmed and raised entirely in foudre. It’s clearly outstanding and another classic release from this brilliant estate."

About Le Vieux Donjon

Le Vieux Donjon is one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most celebrated and consistent family estates, owned and farmed by the Michel family for generations. The domaine takes its name from the ancient papal tower — the “old dungeon” — that overlooks their vineyards in the heart of the appellation. Farming organically on the iconic galets roulés — the large rounded stones that retain heat and reflect sunlight onto the vines — Le Vieux Donjon produces Grenache-dominant blends of extraordinary depth, complexity, and age-worthiness. The estate is widely regarded as a benchmark Châteauneuf-du-Pape producer, consistently earning top scores from the world’s leading critics vintage after vintage.

Food Pairings

Roasted lamb, duck confit, wild boar, herb-crusted beef tenderloin, truffle dishes, aged Comté, and Provençal stews. Decant 1–2 hours before serving; cellar through 2035+.

Product Details

• Producer: Le Vieux Donjon
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Rhône Valley, France
• Blend: 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault
• Aging: Foudre (large oak casks)
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, layered, cellar-worthy Southern Rhône red
• Drink: Now–2035+ (decant 1–2 hours)
• Format: 750ml

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia — Toscana IGT 2023

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia is the approachable entry point into the world of Tenuta dell’Ornellaia — one of Tuscany’s most celebrated estates and a cornerstone of the Bolgheri appellation — and the 2023 vintage is its most joyful and expressive release in years. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, raised in used Ornellaia barriques and concrete for around 10 months, this wine captures the estate’s signature elegance and precision in a bottle built for early enjoyment without sacrificing depth or character. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 93 points, calling it “very elegant with a joyful ease.”

The nose is fruity and fresh: candied flowers, crushed raspberries, red apples, dark cherry compote, and a waft of balsamic herbs with fresh stony earth. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied — silky, crunchy, and vibrant, with a bright streak of raspberry coulis brought together by fresh acidity and a breezy, polished finish. Classy, aromatic, and built to drink beautifully from 2025 through 2035.

Jeb Dunnuck 93 • Decanter 91 • Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 90 — “A total delight. Fresh, aromatic and vibrant — Ornellaia’s blend delivers the goods in an affordable package.”

• Producer: Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot
• Vinification: Aged ~10 months in used Ornellaia barriques and concrete
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Candied flowers, raspberry, red apple, dark cherry, balsamic herbs, stony earth, silky finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2035
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roasted duck, truffle pizza, aged Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano

Elegant, vibrant, and unmistakably Ornellaia — Le Volte is the benchmark for what a Super Tuscan entry point can be.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winemaker Description

Leclerc Briant was an early adopter of organic practices beginning in the 1960’s and pioneered the concept of single-vineyard Champagne starting in the 1970’s. Fifth generation vigneron, Pascal Leclerc began to follow biodynamic principles in 1988, with part of the production Demeter certified since 2003.

Expert Review

Wine Advocate 94 Points | The 2018 Les Monts Ferrés Blanc de Blancs derives from vines planted in the eponymous parcel in the 1er cru village of Vertus. It reveals a delicate, fine bouquet with aromas of fresh bread, acacia, spring flowers and ripe orchard fruits. Medium-bodied and perfectly balanced, it’s enveloping and structured with both racy and bright acidity. This is a tension-filled, ethereal Champagne with a dosage of 1.4 grams per liter.

Les Allées de Cantemerle — Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux 2019

Château Cantemerle is one of Bordeaux's most storied estates — a Fifth Growth of the 1855 Classification, nestled in the southern Haut-Médoc appellation amid one of the most beautiful park settings in all of Bordeaux. Les Allées de Cantemerle is the estate's second wine, crafted primarily from the château's younger vines with a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged partly in tank and partly in barrel to avoid over-oaking, it captures the generous, fruit-forward character of Cantemerle in a more approachable, earlier-drinking style — a wine that invites sharing and friendliness even in its youth. The 2019 vintage is one of Bordeaux's finest of the decade: a warm, dry year that produced wines of exceptional ripeness, concentration, and balance.

The nose is wonderfully aromatic and expressive — the aromas really just jump out of the glass. Juicy red fruits dominate: strawberries, raspberries, and red cherries, quite bright and a refreshing change from the darker fruit profile of many Haut-Médoc wines. On the palate, it is lively and fun, light-bodied with hints of spice underneath the fruit giving structure and backbone. The finish is spicy and persistent, with the fruit-forwardness and easy-drinking style that makes this wine hard not to like.

🏆 Decanter 90 Points — "Wonderfully aromatic and expressive on the nose — the aromas really just jump out the glass. Juicy red fruits — strawberries, raspberries and red cherries. Lively and fun, light with hints of spice giving structure and backbone. Hard not to like for its fruit-forwardness and easy drinking style."

• Producer: Château Cantemerle, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC
• Classification: 2nd Wine of Château Cantemerle (1855 Fifth Growth)
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend
• Vinification: Aged partly in tank, partly in barrel
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Strawberry, raspberry, red cherry, spice, lively acidity, persistent finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, grilled beef, charcuterie, aged cheeses

The approachable face of a Bordeaux Fifth Growth — Les Allées de Cantemerle 2019 is lively, generous, and built for the table right now.

Les Hauts de Lagarde Bordeaux Rouge Organic — Bordeaux 2022

Les Hauts de Lagarde is a certified organic estate in the heart of Bordeaux, producing wines that honor the region's classic character through sustainable viticulture. The 2022 vintage delivered exceptional ripeness and balance — and this Bordeaux Rouge is the estate's most compelling expression yet. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, it earned 90 points from James Suckling, who praised its "velvety texture and core of succulent fruit." At this price, it is one of the most exciting organic values in all of Bordeaux.

The nose opens with generous aromas of blackcurrant, blackberries, warm spices, chocolate, and walnuts. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied with a round, velvety texture, a succulent dark fruit core, and a soft, smooth finish. The structure is elegant — ripe tannins with just enough grip to reward short-term cellaring.

James Suckling 90 — "Chocolate, walnuts and ripe, dark-fruited character on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with a velvety texture and a core of succulent fruit. The finish is soft and smooth." (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Les Hauts de Lagarde, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Bordeaux Rouge AOC
• Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
• Certification: Certified Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, blackberry, spice, chocolate, walnuts, velvety finish
• Best Paired With: Pork roasts, red meat, poultry, pasta dishes, aged cheese

A 90-point certified organic Bordeaux at an honest price — Les Hauts de Lagarde is the benchmark for what everyday Bordeaux can be.

About This Wine

Lewis Cellars has built its reputation on wines of explosive intensity and impeccable polish — and the 2022 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. Sourced from prime Napa Valley fruit and aged 19 months in 100% French oak (65% new), this is a wine that balances power with precision, youthful exuberance with genuine aging potential.

The 2022 vintage in Napa was defined by warm days, cool nights, and a late-season heatwave in September that concentrated flavors beautifully. The result is a wine brimming with black cherry, brambly oak spice, cocoa, and cardamom — plush and fleshy on the palate, with soft, supple tannins and a finish that lingers. Approachable now, built to evolve through 2035.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with violet highlights
• Nose: Black cherry, bramble, cassis, cocoa, cardamom, flowery incense, cedary spice
• Palate: Medium-to-full body, plush and fleshy, concentrated dark fruit, roasted coffee, baking spice
• Finish: Long, polished, soft supple tannins — rich yet refined

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Jeb Dunnuck 93 | A rock-solid success in this challenging vintage. Plums, subtle cassis, flowery incense, and spicy, cedary nuances define the aromatics. Medium to full-bodied, round, lush, and textured with terrific overall balance. Drink 2025–2035.

James Suckling 91 | Plush and intense with deep-set, ripe dark berries, baking spices, roasted coffee beans and walnuts. Concentrated and dense on the full-bodied palate with spiced, cedary tightness to the tannins. Rich yet polished. Better from 2027.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb, aged hard cheeses, and dark chocolate. A Napa Cab built for the table — and equally at home on its own.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2022
Region: Napa Valley, California
Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon
Oak Aging: 19 months, 100% French oak (65% new)
Style: Full-bodied Red Wine

Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Russian River Valley — Sonoma County 2023

Lewis Cellars is one of Napa and Sonoma’s most celebrated producers of opulent, barrel-fermented Chardonnay — and the Russian River Valley bottling is the more feminine, floral counterpart to their Napa expression. The Russian River Valley is defined by its proximity to the Pacific: morning fog, cool afternoons, and salty ocean air that slow ripening and impart a distinctive floral aromatic quality and subtle minerality that sets this appellation apart. The 2023 growing season was one of the longest of the past decade — mild, consistently sunny weather promoted even ripening with exceptional complexity. Lewis waited until late September to begin harvest, picking the last fruit in the second week of November, allowing prolonged hang time for maximal flavor development. The wine is fully barrel-fermented with native yeast and undergoes 100% malolactic conversion in French oak — the Lewis signature.

The color is a luminous golden straw. The nose is rich and captivating: sweet jasmine, roasted pear, popcorn, caramel, cinnamon, and citrus blossom, with a whisper of salty Pacific air. On the palate, it is full-bodied, broad, and richly textured — pear syrup, lemon cream, apple chutney, flaky pastry, and Meyer lemon curd, with rocky minerality and barrel spice woven through a long, succulent, and elegant finish. Vibrant and elevated on entry, graceful and complex through the mid-palate, and deliciously succulent on the landing.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling — 94 Points
“This full-bodied, soft and rich wine drips with pear-syrup and lemon-cream flavors. Fully barrel-fermented with native yeast and 100% malolactic, it feels broad and melted, tasting ultraripe, almost sweet. Great wine if you like this style. Drink or hold.”

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
“Big, rich aromas of popcorn, roasted pear, caramel, and cinnamon waft on the nose. The palate is broad and richly textured, with flavors of apple chutney, flaky pastry, rocky minerality, barrel spice, and citrus blossoms, with echoes of cinnamon and Meyer lemon curd through the finish.”

• Producer: Lewis Cellars, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vinification: Fully barrel-fermented with native yeast, 100% malolactic conversion, French oak
• Harvest: Late September – second week of November (extended hang time)
• Style: Rich, opulent, floral, cool-climate Russian River Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Jasmine, roasted pear, caramel, lemon cream, apple chutney, Meyer lemon curd, rocky minerality, salty Pacific air
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Lobster, crab, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses, scallops

Russian River Chardonnay at its most lush and expressive — Lewis Cellars 2023 is the Pacific Coast in a glass.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

The Wine Spectator 94 Points | Dynamic and precise, this features a core of steely acidity that frames expressive flavors of raspberry and guava, laced with crushed stone, forest floor and dusky spice notes that gather tension and richness toward fine-grained tannins.

94 James Suckling | The nose is pure and focused, showing aromas of redcurrants, wild raspberries and orange rind. The palate is medium-bodied with finely integrated tannins and acidity, giving notes of cherry, potpourri, struck match and forest floor. Tightly wound with years of aging ahead.

Winemaker Description 

Avni 2022 Pinot Noir is focused and flavorful, yet harmonious and balanced, with an overlying elegance and velvety mouthfeel. Red fruits dominate the flavor profile with some black cherry, spice, black tea, fresh herbs, and a hint of black cherry, tar and rose petal, finishing with a round texture.

It is versatile, pairing well with hot smoked salmon and roasted poultry, even grilled meats.

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.

Expert Review - Vintage 2016 

The Wine Advocate 95 Points | 2016 was a superb vintage in Rioja, and the 2016 Viña Gravonia Blanco, which has the cellar aroma that all the wines, especially the whites, have, due to the longer time the wines spend in barrel. The white vines in this vineyard are now 92 years old and their juice was fermented in old oak vats with indigenous yeasts. They explained, "We have never used selected yeasts." It was matured in their well-seasoned American oak barrels for four years. It's paler than any of the other whites, and it has a little less pungency, with very good freshness. It's elegant, subtle, clean and ethereal. They had good yields and a good climatic year. 42,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2022. I give these wines a conservative drinking window, but they will probably last much longer. 

Winemaker Description 

A true classic from one of Spain’s most revered traditional wineries, Viña Gravonia Blanco is not your average white wine. Made from 100% Viura and aged for four years in oak and an additional time in bottle before release, the 2016 vintage offers a rare combination of complexity, texture, and age-worthy finesse.

On the nose, it reveals layers of dried stone fruit, chamomile, toasted almonds, and subtle oxidative notes reminiscent of fine sherry. The palate is textured and elegant, with a dry, savory character and remarkable freshness that defies its age.

This is a wine for lovers of history, craftsmanship, and the timeless style that only Lopez de Heredia can deliver.

Think aged white Burgundy meets classic Rioja—delicate, yet full of soul.

There is nothing quite like a Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva. Bright golden, almost fluorescent in the glass, it opens with a complex, layered nose of toast, smoke, mushroom, earth, pollen, and herbal tea — aromas drawn from years spent deep in López de Heredia's ancient underground caves. On the palate it is medium-bodied yet mouth-filling, with pungent, ethereal flavors, searing acidity, and a long, dry finish that ends with a distinctly salty, umami quality. Still young. Built to age effortlessly for decades.

Blend: ~90% Viura / 10% Malvasía Riojana (avg. vine age: 63 years)
Appellation: Rioja Alta, Spain
Vintage: 2014 — bottled December 2022
Aging: Fermented in ancient oak vats with indigenous yeasts; 6+ years in neutral American oak in underground caves
ABV: 12.5% | pH 3.3 | Acidity 6.6 g/L
Format: 750ml

Founded in 1877, Bodegas López de Heredia is one of the last truly traditional Rioja producers — a family estate that has never compromised its methods. Their wines are aged longer than almost any other producer in Spain, and the caves beneath the winery shape every bottle in ways no modern cellar can replicate. Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva stands apart in the world of white wine: it mimics the complexity of aged Sherry and white Burgundy while remaining unmistakably, defiantly Rioja.

"Fills your mouth with pungent flavors, despite being medium-bodied and having an ethereal quality about it — very long and tasty, finishing almost salty, with an umami feeling, dry and chalky. Delicious, clean and still young, it should age effortlessly." — The Wine Advocate, 96 pts

Winemaker Description

Los Vascos wines blend Lafite tradition with the unique terroir of Chile to create elegant wines that bring exceptional to the everyday. The vision of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) to expand their estates took them to South America in 1988, becoming the first French viticultural investment in modern Chile. Since then, a comprehensive modernization and investment program has been undertaken, oriented towards the production of fine wine using and adapting the viticultural experiences of Bordeaux and other areas where Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) is present. Los Vascos is located in Valley de Caneten (Colchagua), a closed valley in the central zone of Chile, approximately 25 miles from the sea. 

The valley provides a perfect microclimate for high quality viticulture, with Northern exposure to lands uncontaminated by airborne or water-borne pollutants. Daily on-shore winds provide temperature changes between 68-77°F, for optimum maturation of the grapes. With 1,581 acres on the over 5,000 acre estate, it is one of the largest vineyards in the central Colchagua valley, at the foot of Mount Cañeten.

Ripe plum and cherry-scented nose that also features notes of licorice, saffron, cinnamon, and nutmeg that enhance the complexity of aromas. Notes of graphite, clove, dark chocolate and cedar take the experience to a whole new level; A smooth and supple wine with sweet and friendly tannins. Producer Description. 

Critic Review

94 Points James Suckling | Complex and deep nose with plenty of nuance. A fine twist of balsamic with some graphite, cigar box and walnut to the background of cassis and sweet berries. Juicy and medium- to full-bodied on the palate with fine tannins. 92% cabernet sauvignon and 8% syrah.

Louis Jadot Meursault — Côte de Beaune, Burgundy 2022

Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy's most celebrated and trusted négociants, producing wines of exceptional quality and consistency from the Côte d'Or since 1859. Their Meursault is a benchmark expression of this legendary appellation — the village that defines white Burgundy for wine lovers around the world. Meursault's unique combination of limestone and clay soils, combined with the 2022 vintage's exceptional ripeness and natural balance, has produced a Chardonnay of remarkable depth, texture, and longevity.

The nose is rich and inviting: ripe peach, golden apple, and honey layered with toasty oak and a subtle mineral undercurrent. On the palate, it is verging on creamy in texture — vibrant and harmonious, with beautifully integrated oak and a long, layered aftertaste where a distinctive mineral element emerges on the finish. Elegant, complex, and built to age gracefully.

Wine Spectator 92 Points — "Verging on creamy in texture, this white exudes peach, apple and honey flavors wrapped in an embrace of toasty oak. Vibrant and harmonious, with a long, layered aftertaste, where a mineral element emerges. Drink now through 2032." (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Louis Jadot, Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Founded: 1859
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Meursault AOC, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Full-Bodied, Barrel-Aged White Burgundy
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe peach, golden apple, honey, toasty oak, creamy texture, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2032
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roasted scallops, Dover sole, roast chicken with cream sauce, aged Comté, truffle dishes
• Serve: 55–60°F, decant 15–20 minutes

92 points from Wine Spectator — Louis Jadot Meursault 2022 is white Burgundy at its most seductive: rich, mineral, and built for the ages.

Winemaker Description

A perfect combination of softness and concentration, matched by a masterful maturity, The 2015 Cristal Brut delivers intense and delicious aromas with a superb energy and a magical vibration.

This is a timeless champagne with a chalky temperament, sustained by its soils, freed from the sunny character of the vintage.The nose begins with hints of yellow fruit, toasted almonds and wheat from the Chardonnay, combined with the juicy red fruit of the Pinot Noir. 

Then comes the great surge of energy from the wine's structure, a vibratory intensity that transforms into a gentle caress, a silky texture interwoven with fine flavors of candied citrus and iodized spices.The vintage's chalky character thus bursts forth in a bracing, vertical effervescence, with an insistent, precise and finely honed freshness.

The finish is underpinned by subtle oaky, sappy and saline notes, which creates the ultimate sensation of delicacy and concentration.Cristal 2015 remains a wine of supreme balance and measure, resonating from the chalky nature of its soils rather than the sunny character of its vintage.

A perfect Cristal, intensely of the 2015 vintage, with enormous ageing potential.

Expert Reviews 

James Suckling 97 Points | The warm and dry vintage this has tremendous freshness and elegance. The complex nose of citrus blossom, mint, lemon and lime zest opens up slowly as this aerates in the glass. The wine’s ample structure is still quite firm, which is a vintage characteristic, the mousse very fine but also very lively for an eight-year-old champagne. Cristal fans will love this as it is, but a year or two more in the bottle will do a lot for the very long mineral finish of this youthful masterpiece. A cuvee of 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay, picked from all 45 Cristal vineyard plots. Tasted at the Cristal vertical tasting at the champagne house on July 6th, 2023.

96 Points Wine Spectator | This mouthwatering Champagne has an ethereal quality, with a frame of chiseled acidity and focused precision to the pointillisme-like, vibrant mousse. Yet this shows depth and generous expression, with the finely spun notes of patisserie apple and blackberry fruit opening beautifully on the palate and through the minerally finish, with notes of grated ginger, blood orange granita, salted Marcona almond and anise.

96 Points Jeb Dunnuck | I had the opportunity to taste the 2015 Champagne Cristal twice, both at the house in Reims as well as at my home office. On both occasions, the wine offered a terrific balance of decadence and notable freshness for this vintage, which was highly expressive on opening. The release reveals layered custardy notes of lemon balm, incense, apricot, and hazelnut. Medium to full-bodied, the mousse is fluffy and rounded out beautifully through the palate. Round and approachable, it has a well-managed richness along with underlying savory sapidity and saline to keep this going over the coming three or more decades, with a chalky tannin structure to support it.

95 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate | If the 2014 vintage was especially open and demonstrative, the 2015 Cristal is going to require more patience. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, crisp stone fruits, white flowers, crushed mint and subtle hints of buttery pastry, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a deep, concentrated and rather introverted core of fruit framed by chalky extract and animated by a pretty pinpoint mousse. This is a serious, vinous Champagne that has considerable substance to age and may well evolve along the lines of the lovely 1985.

95 Points Decanter | An open and inviting nose references cream, oatmeal and Amalfi lemon with the slightest edge of smoke. The palate immediately strikes with a mouthwatering lemon ripeness and a juicy, mouthfilling generosity reminiscent of yellow plum. It stays true to the trademark sleekness of Cristal and speaks of the concentration of 2015. Fine mousse accentuates the fullness and roundness of the wine while the long finish hints at chalky depth which, for now, is dominated by ripe stone fruit and more of that textured, rich notion of oatmeal. Definitely a Cristal to enjoy soon.

Organic-Estate Central Otago Pinot Noir from the Bendigo Heartland

Loveblock is the project of Kim and Erica Crawford — a certified organic estate dedicated to minimal-intervention winemaking in New Zealand’s most celebrated Pinot Noir region. The grapes for this bottling come from their family-owned “Someone’s Darling” vineyard on the Bendigo Loop Road in Central Otago, placed into organic conversion in March 2022. The 2021 delivers fleshy black plum, layers of cherry and sweet berries, with hints of violet and savoury spice — grown with love, made with care.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: Pretty clove, nutmeg and cardamom details complement sleek maraschino cherry, raspberry and cranberry flavors at the core. A touch of malty Assam tea lingers on the finish, adding a firm note. Drink now through 2035.

Winemaker Notes

Loveblock Pinot Noir Central Otago 2021 750ml

From the “Someone’s Darling” vineyard, Bendigo Loop Road, Central Otago. Fleshy black plum, cherry, and sweet berries on the palate with hints of violet and savoury spice. Bright and structured with a long, elegant finish. Drink now or cellar for up to 10 years.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand
• Vineyard: Someone’s Darling, Bendigo Loop Road
• Producer: Loveblock
• Farming: Organic conversion (certified March 2022)
• Closure: Screwcap
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A versatile Central Otago Pinot — exceptional with roasted duck, lamb rack, salmon with pinot beurre blanc, mushroom risotto, and aged sheep’s milk cheeses.

Loveblock | Sauvignon Blanc | Marlborough, New Zealand | 2024 | Organic

Loveblock is a certified organic winery founded by Kim and Erica Crawford — yes, that Erica Crawford, co-founder of the iconic Kim Crawford wine brand — on their estate in Marlborough, New Zealand. After selling Kim Crawford Wines, Erica returned to her passion for sustainable, organic viticulture and launched Loveblock as a vehicle for producing wines of genuine terroir expression and environmental integrity. The estate is certified organic, and every decision in the vineyard and winery is guided by a commitment to the land and to producing wines of exceptional quality and character.

Marlborough is New Zealand's most celebrated wine region and the spiritual home of Sauvignon Blanc — a place where the combination of intense sunshine, cool nights, and free-draining stony soils produces wines of extraordinary aromatic intensity, vibrant acidity, and distinctive saline minerality. Loveblock's Sauvignon Blanc draws on fruit from across the region to produce a wine of complexity and elegance that goes well beyond the category norm.

The 2024 is pale straw with a hint of green and gold. The nose is complex and elegant — citrus blossom, wild flowers, crushed ripe herbs, pineapple, lemon, grapefruit zest, and sliced peach. On the palate, medium- to full-bodied and chiseled, with a dense fruit core of juicy melon and peach, vibrant fleshy fruit, toasted herbs, green tea, ginger, lime zest, and a saline, umami-tinged finish. Beautifully rounded with layer upon layer of texture and a long, complex, mineral finish.

Pair with oysters, seafood, spaghetti alle vongole, grilled fish, goat cheese, and chicken.

• Producer: Loveblock (Erica Crawford)
• Appellation: Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
• Grape: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
• Vintage: 2024
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Closure: Screwcap
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2024

• James Suckling — 93 pts: Lemon, grapefruit zest and sliced peach aromas. Medium- to full-bodied and chiseled, with vibrant, fleshy fruit and a saline touch in the finish.
• Wine Spectator — 91 pts: Intense and juicy — toasted herbs, green tea and crunchy sea salt mingling with ginger, lime zest and fleshy notes of ripe melon that linger on the long finish.

James Suckling 95 Points | A juicy and delicious wine with aromas of black cherries, walnuts, flint, graphite and matchsticks. Medium-bodied with creamy and refined tannins and a pretty finish. Inky aftertaste with some iodine. 60% merlot and 40% sangivoese. Drink or hold. 

Winemaker Description

Lucente is the result of a careful selection of the estate’s vineyards particularly suited for the production of a fruity and very pleasant wine. Like Luce, it is made from Sangiovese and Merlot, with Merlot prevailing in the blend.

About Luce della Vite

Luce della Vite — “Light of the Vine” — is one of Tuscany’s most celebrated Super Tuscan estates, born from a visionary partnership between the Frescobaldi family and Robert Mondavi in 1993. Based in Montalcino, the Tenuta Luce estate produces wines that bridge the Old and New World: blending the structure and earthiness of Sangiovese with the richness and suppleness of Merlot. Lucente is the estate’s second wine — sharing the same vineyards and winemaking philosophy as the flagship Luce, but crafted for earlier enjoyment and exceptional everyday value. At under $25, it offers a genuine window into one of Italy’s most prestigious estates.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, wild boar ragù, truffle pasta, roasted lamb, and aged Pecorino Toscano. Decant 30 minutes before serving.

Product Details

• Producer: Luce della Vite (Tenuta Luce — Frescobaldi)
• Appellation: Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
• Blend: Merlot & Sangiovese (Merlot dominant)
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Medium-to-full-bodied, fruit-forward Super Tuscan blend
• Drink: Now–2030
• Format: 750ml

Lucien Albrecht Crémant d’Alsace Brut Blanc — Alsace NV

Lucien Albrecht is one of Alsace's most storied estates, and their Crémant Brut Blanc is the wine that earned them a place on Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Wines of 2018 — ranked #71 in the world. Made primarily from Pinot Blanc grown in the heart of Alsace and crafted using the traditional méthode traditionnelle, this is Champagne's most elegant and underpriced neighbor. Creamy, structured, and endlessly food-friendly, it is the sparkling wine you reach for when you want something serious without the serious price tag.

Pale yellow with brilliant clarity and fine, delicate bubbles. The nose is expressive and inviting — fresh apple, white peach, apricot, and dried flowers with a touch of caramelized lemon. On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied and creamy, with firm, persistent effervescence and a rich, characterful mid-palate. Ripe fruit and subtle structure carry through to a fresh, clean finish with real length and subtlety.

James Suckling 90 — "Ripe, slightly candied character with caramelized lemons and dried flowers. Creamy and weighty on the palate with firm bubbles and a rich, characterful mid-palate." • Wine Enthusiast — #71 Top 100 Wines of 2018

• Producer: Lucien Albrecht, Alsace, France
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Crémant d’Alsace AOC
• Varietal: Pinot Blanc (dominant blend)
• Style: Brut Sparkling — Traditional Method
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh apple, white peach, apricot, dried flowers, caramelized lemon, creamy texture, firm bubbles
• Best Paired With: Oysters, smoked salmon, charcuterie, soft cheeses, light poultry, aperitivo

A Top 100 Crémant d’Alsace at an honest price — Lucien Albrecht is the benchmark for what Alsatian sparkling wine can be.