90 + Points | Critical Acclaim

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | The 2022 Pinot Noir Les Dijonnais comes from the oldest vines on the property, planted in 1995 with all Dijon clones. Bottled in late January of this year, the wine sports a vibrant ruby hue and shows off notes of wild raspberries, mixed berries, a hint of fresh violets, clove spice, forest herbs, and brambly earth. It’s chiseled in its structure, with coiled tannins and a good deal of youthful tension, and also offers mineral persistence, with wonderful salinity and dark undertones of earth. It demands another few years in cool cellars to soften and expand as it evolves and will drink well over the long haul. Drink 2026-2040. 590 cases were produced.

Winemaker Description 

Planted in 1995, the Dijon block is now in its prime, delivering the complexity and elegance one expects from carefully tended twenty-six-year-old vines. The 2021 “DJ,” as it is known in-house, shows characteristic black raspberry and rose hip notes. Consistent with previous vintages, it displays Asian five spice, briar and even hints of blood orange coupled with a refreshing acidity and persistent finish. It is a superior vintage, one of the best of the decade. While the 2021 Les Dijonnais Pinot Noir is delicious right now, it will reward patience after a few years in a cool cellar.  Winemaker Description.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | This concentrated Merlot-Zinfandel-Petite Sirah blend brings waves of cherry gastrique, raspberry liqueur, violets and caramel on the nose, while the palate leans into ripe blueberries, dark chocolate and raspberry coulis with expansive texture and velvety tannins.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 93 Points | A fresh and crunchy white with light lemons, mangoes and bitter limes. It’s medium- to full-bodied with lots of fruit. The hot growing season comes through, but it remains fresh at the end.

The Wine Advocate Points | The Bruno Giacosa 2023 Roero Arneis will be a smaller release due to fruit that was damaged during a hailstorm the first week of July. Nonetheless, this wine remains salty, mineral-driven and bright with citrus and white peach. It is executed in stainless steel only. Perhaps this vintage is a little thinner in terms of mouthfeel, but it draws to a close with lingering acidity.

Winemaker Description 

Intense straw colored with greenish glints. The nose presents lemon, pineapple, peach and apricot notes with floral hints. On the palate, it is fresh, full-bodied, with mineral notes and a persistent finish.

Buena Vista Chateau Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley, California 2022

Buena Vista is California’s oldest premium winery — and one of its most colorful. Founded in 1857 in Sonoma by Agoston Haraszthy, the self-proclaimed “Count of Buena Vista,” a Hungarian immigrant who pursued “purple gold” in the hills of Northern California after following the forty-niners, Buena Vista established the template for California fine wine. Since 2011, winemaking has resumed in the original caves — the first wine caves in California — with small-lot wines crafted in open-top oak fermenters with native yeasts and hand punch-downs. The Chateau Cabernet Sauvignon honors the estate’s Napa Valley roots: a full-bodied, plush, and expressive Cabernet that delivers the richness and concentration the valley is famous for. James Suckling awarded it 91 points; Tasting Panel 95. At under $43, it is one of the most compelling values in Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Deep purple in the glass. The nose is captivating: fresh raspberry, luscious cherry, cranberry, vanilla, chocolate plum, and violets. On the palate, it is full-bodied, plush, and concentrated, with flavors of strawberry, sweet cherry, blackcurrant, boysenberry, and vanilla cake, framed by velvet tannins, a tickle of white peppered cedar, and a long, harmoniously balanced finish.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Tasting Panel 95 — “Undeniable aromas of chocolate plum… divine notes of violets, summer-ripe boysenberry, and vanilla cake. Elegant and expressive, with velvet tannins and a tickle of white peppered cedar.”

James Suckling 91 — “Plush, ripe and saturated… deep in red and black fruit on a rather gentle texture of smooth tannins and a full body. Everything from strawberry to sweet cherry and blackcurrant flavors.”

• Producer: Buena Vista Winery (est. 1857), Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Winemaking: Native yeasts, open-top oak fermenters, hand punch-downs
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, cherry, chocolate plum, violets, boysenberry, vanilla, velvet tannins
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb, aged cheddar, dark chocolate

California’s oldest winery at its most expressive — Buena Vista Chateau Cabernet is the benchmark for what Napa Valley Cab can be.

Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon That Takes the Bull by the Horns on Value

Bull by the Horns is a Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon built for those who want serious wine without the serious price tag. Sourced from the sun-drenched vineyards of Paso Robles — one of California's most exciting Cabernet appellations — this is a full-bodied, fruit-forward red with the structure, complexity, and 92-point pedigree to punch well above its price.

Expert Reviews

• Wine Advocate — 92 pts: "Scented of baked red cherry and plum with nuances of graphite, tobacco, tea leaves and aniseed. The full-bodied palate offers generous, perfumed fruit. Supple tannins and just enough juicy acidity to call you in for another sip."

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2020
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for California-style grilling — exceptional with ribeye steak, BBQ brisket, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and smoked short ribs.

Bürklin-Wolf Estate Riesling Trocken — Pfalz 2024

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf is one of Germany's most storied wine estates, with roots in the Pfalz stretching back to the 17th century. Under the stewardship of Bettina Bürklin-von Guradze — one of Germany's most celebrated woman winemakers — the estate converted fully to biodynamic farming in 2005, becoming a benchmark for sustainable viticulture in the region. The vineyards, which include grand cru sites Gaisböhl and Gerümpel, are farmed without synthetic inputs, guided by lunar cycles, and harvested by hand. The result is a range of Rieslings that express the Pfalz with uncommon precision and vitality.

The 2024 Estate Riesling Trocken is sourced from young vines — fifth and sixth leaf — from Gaisböhl and Gerümpel, fermented spontaneously with native yeasts, half in traditional Doppelstück oak casks and half in stainless steel. The combination preserves freshness while adding a subtle textural complexity that sets this wine apart from its peers at the price. Bone dry, vegan, and built for the table.

Pale gold in the glass with a luminous clarity. The nose is pristine and aromatic — abundant peach, Amalfi lemon, preserved citrus, and a delicate mineral flicker of flint. On the palate it is medium-bodied and juicy, with the characteristic Pfalz generosity of stone fruit balanced by vivid lemon acidity and a long, saline finish. Crisp, focused, and deeply satisfying — a Riesling that rewards both the casual pour and the considered pairing.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Abundant peach and Amalfi lemon fruit, plenty of structure and bright mineral acidity on the juicy, medium-bodied palate. Pronounced preserved lemon and salt flavors in the long finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Vegan.”

Vinous — 90 Points
“A very subtle flicker of flint accompanies bright citrus and crushed citrus foliage. The palate brings the typical Pfalz juiciness with some stone fruit, but the lemon overtone is a constant in this vivid, bone-dry expression.”

• Producer: Dr. Bürklin-Wolf, Wachenheim, Pfalz, Germany
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Pfalz
• Grape: 100% Riesling
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic, Vegan
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bone-dry, mineral, medium-bodied Pfalz Riesling
• Tasting Notes: Peach, Amalfi lemon, preserved citrus, flint, stone fruit, saline finish
• Drink Window: Now–2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, oysters, sushi, roast chicken, soft cheeses, asparagus

Biodynamic farming. Woman winemaker. Two 90+ scores. Pfalz Riesling at its most honest.

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf | Ruppertsberg Riesling Trocken 2023 | Pfalz, Germany

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf is one of Germany's most storied biodynamic estates, farming the Pfalz with meticulous precision. Their Ruppertsberg Ortswein (village-level wine) is an open secret among Riesling lovers: sourced primarily from the estate's exclusively owned Gaisböhl Grosse Lage (Grand Cru) vineyard, it delivers Grand Cru-quality fruit at a village-level price. Certified biodynamic, vegan, and sealed with a screwcap for pristine freshness.

The 2023 vintage in the Pfalz produced wines of remarkable juiciness and precision. This bottling opens with a coolish, pure bouquet of star fruit, ripe citrus, and smoky mineral notes. The palate is mouth-filling yet elegant — creamy on entry, then salty minerality and electric acidity drive the finish long. Bone-dry, clean, and built to reward a few years of cellaring.

Tasting Notes - Vintage 2023 

James Suckling — 94 Points: What a stunning village wine. The mouth-filling juiciness (think star fruit and the ripest citrus) is backed up with ample power. Creamy front palate, then the salty minerality and animating acidity kick in and push the finish way out there. A cuvée based on the Gaisböhl GG site of Ruppertsberg. Drink or hold.

Wine Advocate — 92 Points: Opens with a remarkably coolish, pure and refined bouquet with bright, elegant fruit and smoky aromas. Lean and elegant on the palate yet with ripe and juicy fruit — a very fine, elegant-finishing Riesling whose savory grip and tension will be better integrated after a few years of bottle age.

Vinous — 90 Points: A lovely flicker of reduction on the nose leads to an immensely juicy, rounded palate. Lemon-fresh Reine Claude plums with a lovely undertow of yeast. Absolutely bone-dry and clean on the bright finish.

Technical Details

Variety: Riesling  |  Vineyard: Gaisböhl (Grosse Lage), Ruppertsberg  |  Region: Pfalz, Germany  |  Farming: Biodynamic  |  Closure: Screwcap  |  Size: 750ml

Central Otago's Most Exciting Pinot Noir — Moonlight Race by Burn Cottage

Burn Cottage is one of Central Otago's most celebrated biodynamic estates, and the Moonlight Race Pinot Noir is their benchmark expression of this breathtaking South Island appellation. Sourced from three exceptional vineyards — Burn Cottage, Sauvage, and Luna — the 2023 vintage is a wine of extraordinary energy and precision. Crunchy, lively, and deeply satisfying, it captures everything that makes Central Otago Pinot Noir so compelling: vivid fruit, electric acidity, and a silky, fine-grained texture that is impossible to put down.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 96 pts: "I really like the crunchy character to this, with ripe, al dente pinot noir character highlighting the strawberry and lemon notes. Medium-bodied, lively and energetic with citrus and crushed stone undertones. This is so satisfying and fresh."
• Wine Spectator — 95 pts: "Stalky, spicy and bright, with notes of Campari/blood orange that mingle alongside dark chocolate, coffee, blood plum and star anise. The tannins and acidity work together as one, making this wine feel integrated, serious, and fun, all at once. Very fine."
• Wine Advocate — 94 pts: "Supple and spicy, with pink peppercorn, cherry blossom, red apple skins, a hint of blond tobacco and white pepper. The tannins are totally fresh and fine — finely milled and like poudre. Superb, silky, totally satisfying and enlivening."

Winemaker Notes

Burn Cottage Pinot Noir Moonlight Race Central Otago 2023 750ml

A blend of 56% Burn Cottage Vineyard, 22% Sauvage Vineyard, and 22% Luna Vineyard fruit. Seven percent whole bunch was included in the ferment with 17 days on skins. Aged in 22% new French oak. The result is a wine of remarkable freshness and complexity — bright red fruit, floral lift, spice, and a long, mineral-driven finish that is quintessentially Central Otago.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand
• Producer: Burn Cottage
• Vintage: 2023
• Farming: Biodynamic
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Incredibly versatile — exceptional with roasted duck, salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb rack, soft cheeses, and charcuterie boards.

Expert Review

The Wine Spectator 94 Points | A very inviting, open style, with butterscotch and caramel notes framing the core of glazed pear, caramelized peach, golden raisin and warm fig flavors. The lush finish lets crème brûlée and ginger cream details hang, showing a flash of honeysuckle for lift.

Winemaker Description 

If time is marked by special moments, Kopke’s history is written in exceptional years.
Years that are worth keeping, so they can be relived and celebrated any time. When we retrieve years from Kopke’s history, we are creating more history: the age on the label of this Kopke Port wine is the average age of all the wines in the blend.

The wine should be stored in a cool and dry place, sheltered from light and temperature uctuations, and the bottle should remain in an upright position. Over time, it is natural that sediment will form at the bottom of a bottle of Port wine.

• Hand-picked at the optimum time, the grapes are then destemmed, crushed and converted into wine through a process of careful maceration to extract their colour, tannins and aromas, enhanced by constant churning during fermentation. This takes place in vats (lagares) at a controlled temperature (between 28-30°C) until the right degree of sweetness (baumé) is achieved. At this point, grape brandy is added to create the final fortified wine. A wine of high quality, made by blending wines of different harvests to achieve the array of sensory qualities that are typical of these aged tawny Port wines. These wines have each matured in oak casks for varied periods of time, with the average age of all the wines in the blend defining the age on the label. The resulting blend expresses the characteristics given by the ageing in wood.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2017

The top Cabernet is the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear Ranch, which comes all from the Howell Mountain AVA. It's another inky colored beauty boasting a terrific perfume of black and blue fruits, ground herbs, spice box, graphite, and forest floor. With brilliant minerality on the palate as well as full-bodied richness and an expansive, opulent texture, it has sweet tannins and is approachable today, yet will benefit from short-term cellaring and cruise for 25-30 years. It's one of the few 2017s to come close to its 2016 counterpart. Bravo!  Drinking 2024 to 2054.  Jeb Dunnuck 97

Bottled only three weeks ago, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear Ranch is composed of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 1% Merlot, having spent 22 months in 60% new French oak. Very deep garnet-purple in color, it reveals beautiful notions of kirsch, red and black currant preserves, raspberry pie and warm plums with hints of red roses, stewed tea, underbrush and cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied, the palate has wonderful red fruit and floral intensity intermingled with black fruits, framed by firm, grainy tannins and a wicked backbone of freshness, finishing very long and mineral laced. Very different from the epic 2016 Dancing Bear, but very exciting!  Drinking 2020 to 2038.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 95+

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear ranch is a gorgeous Howell Mountain red. Succulent black cherry, plum, licorice, spice, new leather, rose petal and blood orange all run through this deep, resonant, unctuous Cabernet Sauvignon from Cakebread. This is a very pretty wine.  Drinking 2022 to 2032.  - Vinous 93

Expert Ratings - Vintage 2018 

Wine Advocate 93 Points | Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Benchland Select gives up intense cassis, stewed plums and cedar chest notes with hints of licorice and wild sage. Medium to full-bodied in the mouth, the palate has a taut, grainy texture supporting the muscular black fruits, finishing long and mineral tinged.

James Suckling 92 Points | Ripe blueberries, blackcurrants, blackberries, spearmint, cocoa and walnut on the nose. Full-bodied with firm, fine tannins. Supple, flavorful finish. Drink or hold. 

A Classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from One of the Valley’s Most Iconic Estates

Cakebread Cellars has been crafting benchmark Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon since 1973, and the 2022 is a quintessential expression of the house style — rich, layered, and beautifully balanced. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, and 1% Cabernet Franc, it delivers ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry with dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak, underpinned by bright acidity and velvety tannins.

Expert Reviews

• James Suckling — 92 pts: Plush and generous aromas of blackcurrants, mulberries and baking spices. Full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving flavors of olive tapenade, blackberries and cedar. Approachable for early drinking, but will age nicely. (Vintage 2022). 

Winemaker Notes

Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml

Rich layers of ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry enhanced by subtle hints of dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak. Bright acidity and velvety tannins deliver a full-bodied yet refined and elegant structure. Approachable now and built to age gracefully.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Cakebread Cellars
• Vintage: 2022
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural at the table — exceptional with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb rack, rich pork dishes, game, and aged cheddar or Gruyère.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate 92 Points | The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Suscol Springs is blended of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple in color, exuberant notes of fresh blackberries, boysenberry preserves and blackcurrant pastilles rocket from the glass, followed by hints of sautéed herbs, forest floor and black olives. The medium to full-bodied palate is intense and energetic, featuring finely grained tannins and a refreshing backbone, finishing long and lifted.

James Suckling 93 Points | Ripe blackberries, cassis, chocolate, mocha and sweet spices on the nose with some tobacco leaf. Full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Polished and well-balanced. Drink from 2023. 

Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay Napa Valley 2024 — Carneros, Napa Valley

Cakebread Cellars is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates, founded in 1973 with a single Chardonnay — and that first wine set the template for everything that followed.

For over 50 years, Cakebread has been refining its Napa Valley Chardonnay, sourcing exclusively from the Carneros appellation in southern Napa Valley.

Situated just north of San Pablo Bay, Carneros is defined by cool, windswept conditions, Haire Loam clay soils, and the kind of natural tension between fruit richness and acidity that produces benchmark California Chardonnay.

The 2024 vintage benefited from consecutive winters of abundant rainfall that refreshed soil profiles and supported vigorous vine growth, followed by Carneros’ hallmark warm days and cool nights through spring and summer — ideal conditions for steady ripening and acid retention. The result is a wine of exceptional balance and aromatic complexity.

The 2024 opens with aromas of yellow delicious apple, lemon curd, white peach, vanilla bean, jasmine, and crème brûlée. On the palate, layers of fresh citrus, poached pear, and melon unfold, accented by hints of vanilla biscotti. The finish is long and refined, carrying both creamy and mineral textures in perfect harmony. James Suckling praised it for its “nicely balanced” profile with “bright acidity and a zesty, vibrant finish.”

James Suckling — “Nicely balanced, with aromas of lemon confit, crushed stones, pastry, grapefruit and flint. Bright acidity and a zesty, vibrant finish.”

• Producer: Cakebread Cellars, Rutherford, Napa Valley (est. 1973)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Napa Valley (Carneros)
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Apple, lemon curd, white peach, vanilla bean, jasmine, crème brûlée, citrus, pear, melon, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster, grilled halibut, roasted chicken, creamy risotto, soft-ripened cheeses, crab cakes

Fifty years of Napa Chardonnay mastery — Cakebread remains the benchmark.

Calera Chardonnay — Central Coast 2023

In 1975, Josh Jensen founded Calera high in the Gavilan Mountains — naming it after the Spanish word for "lime kiln" — and spent decades proving that California's Central Coast could produce world-class wine. Nearly fifty years on, the Central Coast Chardonnay remains the benchmark of the estate: impeccably balanced, cool-climate in character, and consistently earning 91-point scores from both Wine Enthusiast and Jeb Dunnuck. The 2023 growing season was exceptional — a long wet winter, delayed budbreak, and a mild extended summer gave the fruit an extra month to ripen, achieving rare harmony between acidity and concentration.

The nose shows toasted almond, citrus pith, lemon zest, apricot, and delicate orange blossom. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a rounded, grainy texture — golden apple, pineapple, and tangerine are framed by bright, focused acidity and a touch of wet stone minerality. The finish is crisp, long, and refreshing, with chaparral herb and dried pear lingering through the close. Drinking beautifully now, with 5–7 more years of potential.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — "Toasted almond, citrus pith and light dairy aromas. Chaparral rock and herb flavors meet with brighter lemon and dried pear elements." — Matt Kettmann • Jeb Dunnuck 91 — "Hugely enjoyable, with a rounded mouthfeel and long-lasting acidity." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Calera, Gavilan Mountains, Central Coast, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Central Coast
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: White Wine — Full-Bodied, Cool-Climate
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Toasted almond, citrus pith, lemon zest, apricot, golden apple, pineapple, tangerine, wet stone, chaparral herb
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–7 years
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, roasted chicken, wild mushroom ravioli, goat cheese salads, light cream sauces

Two 91-point scores, one honest price — Calera's Central Coast Chardonnay is the benchmark for what California cool-climate white wine can be.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | Seamless and supple with vanilla, dark cherry, and a twist of earthy forest. Sourced from several vineyards in San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Long-lasting, fresh, and approachable with full-bodied weight and breadth supported by supple tannins and spiced oak.

Winemaker Notes

Beautifully lush and supple, this Pinot Noir draws you in with inviting aromas of raspberry, dark cherry, dried sage, and sweet tobacco leaf. Soft, supple tannins frame alluring layers of wild strawberry and Bing cherry, with hints of cracked black pepper and spice on a long, satisfying finish.

About Calera

Calera is one of California’s most storied Pinot Noir producers, founded by Josh Jensen in the 1970s after studying under Burgundy legends. Jensen was among the first to champion limestone soils in California for Pinot Noir — the estate’s name means "lime kiln" in Spanish. This Central Coast bottling blends fruit from across the region to deliver Calera’s signature elegance at an accessible price point.

Tasting & Pairings

Dark cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, dried sage, sweet tobacco, black pepper, and spiced oak. Full-bodied yet supple with soft tannins and a long finish.

• Roasted duck or quail — the dark fruit and sage notes are a natural match for game birds.
• Grilled salmon with herbs — California Pinot and Pacific salmon, always a winner.
• Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta — the earthy forest character complements umami-rich dishes.

Santa Maria Valley's Standard-Bearer — Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir

Cambria Estate Winery is one of Santa Barbara County's most storied producers, and Julia's Vineyard is their crown jewel — home to some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Santa Maria Valley, planted in the 1970s. This cool-climate vineyard, buffeted by Pacific breezes, produces a Pinot Noir of remarkable definition and complexity: bright fruit, earthy spice, mineral precision, and the signature "Santa Maria spice" that sets this appellation apart. The 2023 vintage is a benchmark expression — balanced, detailed, and exceptional value for the quality in the glass.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Hibiscus and herbal aromas mark this detailed Pinot Noir, following through to a palate of definition, length and mineral bones that frame cranberries, pomegranate, red cherries and their pits. Rose hips rise through the finish, a zip of orange zest on top."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 pts: "Framboise, Bing cherries, sappy underbrush, and floral notes that develop nicely with air. Medium-bodied, balanced, with good depth of fruit and a complex, satisfying style that would best many a great Village-level red Burgundy."
• Wine Enthusiast — 90 pts: "Rustic aromas of tart cranberry, oregano and thyme. The palate pairs red fruit with sage-like spices and dusty soil tones."
• Vinous — 90 pts: "Bright, rich and forward with spice tones and dark red cherry fruit forming the core. There's real character and Santa Maria Valley identity here."

Winemaker Notes

Cambria Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard 2023 750ml

100% destemmed and aged seven months in 18% new French oak barrels. Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir is a quintessential expression of the Santa Maria Valley — old vines, cool climate, and a winemaking philosophy that lets the vineyard speak. The result is a wine of genuine depth and Santa Maria identity at an exceptional price point.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County
• Producer: Cambria Estate Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Vine Age: Planted 1970s
• Aging: 7 months, 18% new French oak
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Incredibly versatile — exceptional with roast chicken with herbs, grilled salmon, duck confit, mushroom pizza, Gruyère, and charcuterie boards.

Expert Rating

Wine Enthusiast 95 Points | Quite inky in the glass, this bottling is loaded with thick, dark-fruit aromas of black plum, cassis and violet, as hints of cocoa arise slowly. It lands with a force on the palate, providing lively while powerful and offering fresh fruit and flower flavors as well as a dried meat and tarry earth backbone. 

Winemaker Description

Camins 2 Dreams is a winery designed by two women with a creative desire to produce natural wines, utilizing the best sustainably and organically farmed grape cultivars available. Business and life partners Tara Goméz

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

James Suckling 92 Points | Currant, blueberry and violet aromas follow through to a medium body with firm, fine tannins that give the wine form and focus. Chocolate and hazelnut emerge in the undertones. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points | This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot features alluring aromas evoking cassis, black-skinned berry and underbrush. The concentrated palate offers black plum, tobacco and mocha alongside polished tannins.

Expert Review - Vintage 2024 James Suckling

90/100 points

Pinot Grigio is one of the most cultivated grape varieties in Alto Adige and finds ideal conditions in Kurtatsch. Our Pinot Grigio Selection consists only of grapes from selected hillsides and steep slopes.

Experience the elegance of Soave Classico with Cantina Pra 'Otto' 2024, a masterclass in volcanic minerality. Named after Graziano Prà's beloved dog, Otto, this wine is widely considered one of the most reliable and "dangerously delicious" white wines in Italy. Earning 91 points from Vinous, this bright, mid-weight white wine showcases fresh orchard fruit, vibrant acidity, and salty minerals, making it ideal as an aperitif as well as a perfect match for seafood, roast chicken, and a variety of pasta dishes.

Vinous - 91 Points (2024 Vintage)

"The 2024 Soave Classico Otto impresses with its fresh mix of vividly ripe orchard fruit. It's airy and lifted with notes of minty herbs, sweet spices and white smoke. A burst of vibrant acidity invigorates the palate as salty minerals saturate. Crisp and clean, the Otto closes with a long, citrus-inflected finish."

Winemaker's Description

This base wine from Prà fully embodies its concept, named after Graziano's dog, Otto, it is a bright, mid-weight white wine with aromas and flavors of green apple, flowers, almond, and citrus, making it ideal as an aperitif as well as a perfect match for seafood, roast chicken, and a variety of pasta dishes.

Named After Graziano Prà's Dog, Otto

Named after Graziano Prà's beloved dog, Otto, this wine carries a personal touch that reflects the winemaker's passion. The name adds charm and character to this exceptional Soave Classico.

"Dangerously Delicious" - Most Reliable White Wine in Italy

This wine is widely considered one of the most reliable and "dangerously delicious" white wines in Italy. Its consistent quality and irresistible character make it a favorite among wine enthusiasts.

Masterclass in Volcanic Minerality

Moving from the coastal, sandy soils of the Rhône delta to the volcanic hills of the Veneto, the 2024 Cantina Prà 'Otto' Soave Classico is a masterclass in volcanic minerality. The volcanic soils impart distinctive mineral character.

Volcanic Hills of the Veneto

From the volcanic hills of the Veneto, this wine showcases the unique terroir of the Soave Classico region. The volcanic soil contributes to the wine's signature minerality and complexity.

Primarily Garganega Grape

This grape variety, primarily made from Garganega, boasts a fresh and vibrant profile. Garganega is the indigenous grape of Soave and produces wines of exceptional quality and character.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Bright, pale yellow
Aroma: Fresh mix of vividly ripe orchard fruit. Minty herbs, sweet spices and white smoke. Green apple, flowers, almond, and citrus. Pear, white peach, and a hint of almond
Palate: Airy and lifted. Burst of vibrant acidity. Salty minerals saturate. Crisp and clean. Bright, mid-weight. Refreshing acidity that invigorates the palate
Finish: Long, citrus-inflected finish

Fresh Mix of Vividly Ripe Orchard Fruit

The 2024 Soave Classico Otto impresses with its fresh mix of vividly ripe orchard fruit. The fruit expression is pure and vibrant, showcasing the quality of the 2024 vintage.

Airy & Lifted

It's airy and lifted with notes of minty herbs, sweet spices and white smoke. The wine feels light and elegant, never heavy or cloying.

Minty Herbs, Sweet Spices & White Smoke

With notes of minty herbs, sweet spices and white smoke adding aromatic complexity. These nuanced aromas elevate the wine beyond simple fruit character.

Burst of Vibrant Acidity

A burst of vibrant acidity invigorates the palate. The acidity provides structure, freshness, and makes the wine incredibly food-friendly.

Salty Minerals Saturate

As salty minerals saturate the palate, creating a distinctive savory character. This mineral salinity is a hallmark of volcanic terroir and adds complexity.

Crisp & Clean

Crisp and clean, the wine showcases purity and precision. The winemaking allows the terroir and fruit to express themselves clearly.

Long, Citrus-Inflected Finish

The Otto closes with a long, citrus-inflected finish. The extended finish demonstrates the wine's quality and concentration.

Green Apple, Flowers, Almond & Citrus

With aromas and flavors of green apple, flowers, almond, and citrus. These classic Soave characteristics are beautifully expressed in the 2024 vintage.

Bright, Mid-Weight White Wine

It is a bright, mid-weight white wine that balances substance with elegance. The wine has enough body to pair with food while remaining refreshing.

Pear, White Peach & Almond

The 2024 vintage showcases bright notes of pear, white peach, and a hint of almond. These fruit and nut flavors create an inviting, complex profile.

Subtle Minerality from Volcanic Soil

You'll notice the subtle minerality derived from the volcanic soil of the Soave region. This terroir-driven character distinguishes Soave Classico from other Italian whites.

Unique Terroir Expression

Each bottle encapsulates the unique terroir, celebrating the richness of its surroundings. This wine is not just a beverage; it's an experience that transports you to the enchanting vineyards of Italy.

Soave Classico Region

Soave Classico is a charming white wine hailing from the picturesque Soave region of Italy. The Classico designation indicates grapes from the historic heart of the Soave zone.

Remarkable Balance of Fruitiness & Minerality

The Cantina Pra 'Otto' Soave Classico 2024 offers a remarkable balance of fruitiness and minerality that is characteristic of this esteemed wine. This balance is the hallmark of quality Soave.

Versatile Food Pairing

Pair with:

• Risotto with spring vegetables (asparagus or peas)
• Sushi or Sashimi (the salinity mimics the sea)
• Prosciutto di Parma (the fruitiness cuts through the salt of the ham)
• Grilled fish
• Shrimp risotto
• Light chicken dishes
• Fresh salads
• Antipasti platters
• Seafood
• Light pasta dishes
• Creamy sauces

Ideal as an Aperitif

Making it ideal as an aperitif to start your meal. The bright acidity and refreshing character awaken the palate and stimulate the appetite.

Perfect for Seafood

A perfect match for seafood, from grilled fish to shellfish. The wine's minerality and acidity complement the delicate flavors of seafood perfectly.

Cuts Through Creamy Sauces

Its bright acidity makes it an ideal companion for creamy sauces, cutting through richness while enhancing the dish's flavors. The wine provides balance and refreshment.

Meticulous Winemaking Process

What sets Cantina Pra 'Otto' apart is its meticulous winemaking process that embodies tradition and innovation. The Prà family's dedication to quality is evident in every bottle.

Italian Wine Craftsmanship

Explore the essence of Italian wine craftsmanship in every sip and discover why Soave Classico is a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide. This wine represents the best of Italian white wine tradition.

2024 Vintage Quality

The 2024 vintage showcases exceptional quality, earning 91 points from Vinous. This vintage represents the excellence of Cantina Prà's winemaking.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Ideal for casual gatherings or formal dining, this versatile wine elevates any occasion. Embrace the flavors of Italy and impress your guests with this exceptional white wine—perfect for both casual get-togethers and festive celebrations.

Cantina Pra 'Otto' Soave Classico 2024 750ml

Winemaker Description

Medium to medium-dark ruby-red. Very cool, stately aromas of red cherry, cola, and fresh tobacco leaf. On the palate, medium-full bodied. Flavors of red fruits and blood orange take front and center stage, persisting through the long, smooth finish. Not a wine of bombast but instead, one of elegance, purity, and quiet confidence. Wonderful now, this can be enjoyed through at least 2028.

Expert Ratings

94 Points Wine Spectator | Few Zinfandels show this much nuance and detail, yet there's an elegant power to this red, with cherry and raspberry flavors that mingle with orange peel and fresh sage. Ends with refined tannins.

93 Points Jeb Dunnuck | The 2020 Zinfandel Papera Ranch is ripe with fresh berries, raspberry preserve, and baking spice. Its gushy fruit up front gives way to a note of raspberry seed and refreshing lift on the finish. Drink 2023-2032.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Vinous 91 Points | The 2022 Barbaresco is a fine entry-level offering from Giacosa. This perfumed, mid-weight Barbaresco is all charm. Crushed flowers, bright red fruit, blood orange, spice and mint open first. Silky, polished tannins give this pliant, alluring Barbaresco tons of character. A delight.

Memo Summary Notes

Carlo Giacosa is a fourth-generation family estate in the heart of Barbaresco. 

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

It fermented in stainless steel and matured in French and American oak barrels for two years and was kept in bottle for another three. It has a textbook spicy nose with sweet spices, smoke and toast, berry fruit and herbs, a touch of forest floor and truffles, with a moderate 13.5% alcohol and balancing freshness.

A rare and highly age-worthy expression of Nebbiolo from the heart of Barbaresco, the Quindicianni 2010 represents the pinnacle of patience and traditional winemaking at Cascina Baricchi. A true library release, this wine is aged for extended periods before release, resulting in extraordinary complexity, depth, and refinement.

Expert Ratings

97 James Suckling: Restrained and profound wine which shines on the nose for the Parma violets and potpourri, earth and minerals, almost stony, together with licorice, dried cherries and strawberries, rhubarb whiffs and citrus freshness. It is exquisitely integrated on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, juicy and firm with ripe, velvety tannins and sleek, elegant depth, again with citrus flavors. Focused, polished and long.

Winemaker Notes

About This Wine — A Rare Expression of Nebbiolo

Rose delle Casasse is widely considered the only Barbaresco produced entirely from Nebbiolo Rosé — a grape that, while related to Nebbiolo, has been proven genetically distinct. As noted by ampelographer Ian d’Agata in his landmark book Native Wine Grapes of Italy, Nebbiolo Rosé is not simply a clone but its own variety, making this Riserva a genuinely singular wine in the Barbaresco appellation.

Cascina Baricchi is a small husband-and-wife estate in Neive, farming with deep respect for the land and producing wines of remarkable character and authenticity. The Rose delle Casasse vineyard gives a wine of uncommon delicacy and complexity — more aromatic and fine-boned than classic Nebbiolo, yet no less age-worthy.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2016

Vinous — 94 Points
"The 2016 Barbaresco Riserva Rose delle Casasse is a fine follow-up to the stellar 2015. A bit more austere than its older sibling, the 2016 presents a distinctly savory profile redolent of crushed flowers, herbs, mint, spice, leather and tobacco, while the fruit is pushed into the background. This is such a gorgeous wine."

Jeb Dunnuck — 93 Points
"Made entirely from the Rosé clone of Nebbiolo, this is fresh with wild raspberry, pine, and dark earth. Medium body and good concentration, with fine tannins and a good finish of peppery spice and red cherry. Refreshing and cleanses the palate nicely."

Food Pairings

A natural match for salumi, aged hard cheeses, roasted lamb, braised Piedmontese beef, and truffle-based dishes. Decant for at least 45 minutes; will continue to develop beautifully with additional cellaring.

Product Details

• Producer: Cascina Baricchi
• Region: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Nebbiolo Rosé (100%)
• Classification: Barbaresco Riserva
• Vineyard: Rose delle Casasse
• Vintage: 2016
• Format: 750ml

An extraordinary and highly distinctive Barbaresco, crafted from the rare Nebbiolo Rosé clone, a genetically distinct biotype prized for its aromatic finesse and complexity. Produced from a tiny parcel in Neive and aged extensively in large oak casks before release, this is a wine of depth, character, and remarkable aging potential.

The 2019 vintage is rich and expansive, offering a layered bouquet of rose petals, violets, dark red fruit, blood orange, spice, and licorice, with subtle earthy undertones that unfold beautifully in the glass.
On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with impressive concentration, firm yet refined tannins, and a vibrant core of savory, mineral-driven complexity. Notes of dried cherry, herbs, tea leaf, and a touch of coffee and spice linger through a long, polished finish.

Critic Antonio Galloni describes the wine as “fabulous… rich and ample… with explosive resonance,” highlighting its depth and energy.

A compelling Barbaresco that balances power with elegance, this wine can be enjoyed now with decanting or cellared for 10–15+ years.

Perfect with: roasted meats, game, truffle dishes, and aged cheeses.

Expert Ratings

94 Points Vinous: The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rose delle Casasse is fabulous. Rich and ample in feel, the 2019 is seriously impressive. There is a feeling of breadth that is palpable. Dark red/purplish fruit, rose petal, blood orange and spice blossom with a bit of coaxing. Readers can drink the 2019 now or cellar it. Time in the glass brings out the wine's inner perfume. This finishes with notable substance and explosive resonance.  - Antonio Galloni

Winemaker Description

The soils are of marine origin from the Tertiary era, characterized by bluish marl (at a depth ranging from 1 to 3 meters), calcareous, compact structure. The stratification is dense and varied, rich in mineral salts and natural springs.

Barbaresco Rio Sordo receives careful grape selection in the vineyard – 100% Nebbiolo. The immediately noticeable characteristics are the considerable complexity and depth, accompanied by elegance and finesse.

Expert Review

Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94+ Monica Larner | A release of about 3,000 bottles, the 2018 Barbaresco Rio Sordo shows the finesse and delicate fruit that is so well expressed by this estate. The bouquet is redolent of rose hip and crushed flowers, and you get cassis, wild cherry and dried pomegranate as well. There is a giant layer of minty herb, and then the wine finally relaxes with polished tones of crushed stone and white licorice. Cascina delle Rose makes a fine bottle of Barbaresco. 

Winemaker Description

Calcareous limestone with sand. No herbicides (only manual) and they only use a minimal amount of copper and sulfur in the vineyard - aiming towards as minimal an environmental impact as possible. Fermented with skins for three weeks with remontage.  Aged in Slavonian botti of 10-20HL for 18 months followed by time in the bottle before release. No clarification or filtering before bottling. 

Expert Review

Wine Advocate 94 Points | Compared to the Rio Sordo, the Cascina delle Rose 2018 Barbaresco Tre Stelle is slightly more robust and open-knit. This wine shows a more overt concentration that comes across with blackberry and wild cherry. To the palate, it shows a smooth but nicely elaborate texture. There are light touches of crushed stone and even some tobacco on the close. 

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | An elegant red, boasting cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavors. Firm, with a dry edge to its tannins as this builds to the long finish. Overall, there's fine balance, and the lasting impression is of ripe fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2030.

Brunello di Montalcino from One of Tuscany's Most Celebrated Estates

Castello Banfi has been one of Montalcino's most important estates since 1978, playing a pivotal role in elevating Brunello di Montalcino to its status as one of Italy's greatest wines. Their 2020 Brunello di Montalcino — 100% Sangiovese Grosso from the estate's vineyards in the southern reaches of the appellation — comes from a warm, generous vintage that produced wines of exceptional richness and approachability, with the structure and depth to age beautifully through 2045.

Expert Reviews

• Wine Advocate — 93 pts: "Opens to a velvety character that includes the softness and generosity of a warm and dry vintage. The bouquet is redolent of cherry, blackcurrant, grilled herb and sweet rose. Open-knit and accessible with sweet tannins on the close."
• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Abundant violets and roses on the nose, together with cherries and pomegranates. Fruity on the medium- to full-bodied palate with firm, velvety tannins, a lot of freshness and good length. Best after 2026."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 92 pts: "Pretty on the nose with aromas of baked strawberries, sweet spices, dusty earth, and hints of lavender. Medium-bodied with fine, dusty tannins and an elegantly fruity feel. Charming and approachable with good freshness and finesse."
• Wine Spectator — 92 pts: "Aromas and flavors of graphite, cherry, blackberry, pomegranate and wet earth. Vibrant and focused with a long aftertaste embedded in muscular tannins. Best from 2029 through 2045."

Winemaker Notes

Brilliant ruby red with garnet reflections. Sweet and fruity on the nose with fresh red fruit, licorice, and pipe tobacco. Powerful on the palate with a consistent tannic texture, well balanced by pleasant acidity. Extremely persistent with excellent aging potential.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello)
• Appellation: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Producer: Castello Banfi
• Vintage: 2020
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Classic Tuscan pairings — exceptional with bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, braised lamb, aged Pecorino, and truffle-based dishes. Also outstanding as a meditation wine.

Winemaker Description 

Castello dei Rampolla d'Alceo is a premium, proprietary blend of Cabernet and Petit Verdot grapes exclusively from the renowned Panzano in Chianti region of Tuscany. This organic and biodynamic red is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its complex bouquet and flavor profile.

Expert Reviews - VIntage 2009

Vinous 96 Points | The 2009 d'Alceo comes across as much more classic in style and structure than the 2008. According to Luca di Napoli, the trick to 2009 was harvesting on the early side. Freshly cut flowers, sweet red berries, plums, mint and licorice all take shape in the glass Over the last few months, the 2009 d'Alceo has softened a bit, releasing expressive, floral aromatics, brighter shades of fruit and striking inner perfume, but it remains quite vibrant in the context of a vintage in which so many wines are quite a bit riper in style. The 2009 is a wonderfully deep, resonant d'Alceo that should offer a wide drinking window starting in a few years. It certainly looks like Rampolla nailed the vintage.  Drinking 2019 - 2039.

Antonio Galloni, 96+ | My absolute favorite wine of 2022 was a bottle of the Castello dei Rampolla 2006 d'Alceo that I had the good fortune to drink at dinner during a work event in Tuscany last year. I remember the wine vividly, and if I were to review it again, it would certainly merit a perfect score. With that profound inspiration in mind, I feel especially optimistic toward this outstanding group of new releases from Maurizia di Napoli and her talented team. This historic estate has farmed according to organic and biodynamic methods since 1994, making it one of the first in Italy to do so. In truth, I have found some inconsistencies along the way over the many years I have reviewed and adored these wines. Such is the magic of artisanal winemaking. But thanks to that memory of that 2006 d'Alceo, I remain in awe of Castello dei Rampolla today. 

Bramito Della Sala Chardonnay — Castello della Sala, Umbria, Italy 2024

Castello della Sala is one of Italy's most storied white wine estates — a magnificent medieval fortress set in the hills of Umbria, just 18 kilometers from Orvieto, where the Antinori family has spent decades proving that Italy can produce world-class Chardonnay. Bramito Della Sala is the estate's benchmark white: a pure, elegant expression of Chardonnay grown on the estate's high-altitude vineyards, fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness and precision. Wine Enthusiast awarded the 2024 vintage 93 points, praising its perfect balance between richness and restraint. At $25.99, it is one of the most exciting values in Italian white wine.

The nose is inviting and complex: baked apple, hazelnut brittle, crème fraîche, and wet stones. On the palate, generous fruit meets mineral tension in a seamless, structured mid-palate, leading to a refreshing, tart finish that is clean and long. This is Chardonnay that finds the rare sweet spot between Old World restraint and New World generosity — and it delivers every time.

Wine Enthusiast 93 — "Baked apples and hazelnut brittle weave through notes of crème fraîche and wet stones. The palate delivers substance with style, where generous fruit meets mineral tension and a refreshing tart finish. Here’s Chardonnay finding perfect balance between richness and restraint." (Vintage 2024).

• Producer: Castello della Sala (Antinori), Umbria, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Umbria IGT
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Baked apple, hazelnut, crème fraîche, wet stone, mineral tension, tart finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, lobster, roast chicken, risotto, soft cheeses, pasta with cream sauce

A 93-point Umbrian Chardonnay at an honest price — Bramito Della Sala is the benchmark for what Castello della Sala and Italian white wine can be.

Castello di Bossi | Chianti Classico Gran Selezione | Organic | 2020

Gran Selezione is the apex of the Chianti Classico pyramid — a single-vineyard or best-barrel selection aged a minimum of 30 months before release. Castello di Bossi's 2020 version is a textbook example of why this category matters. Sourced from the estate's southern Gaiole in Chianti holdings and certified organic, it spent 24 months in large 40–50HL casks — a deliberate choice that preserves Sangiovese's aromatic lift while building structure without over-oaking. The 2020 vintage delivered warm, even ripening across Tuscany, and Bossi channeled that richness into a wine of explosive intensity and remarkable finesse. Deep ruby with garnet lights, it opens with black cherry, plum, cedar, sweet spice, dark chocolate, and a whisper of saddle leather. The palate is fleshy and dense, yet balanced, with a very pronounced, lingering finish. Drink now with confidence, or cellar through 2034.

• Appellation: Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Varietal: Sangiovese
• Vintage: 2020
• Format: 750ml
• Aging: 24 months in 40–50HL large casks
• Certification: Certified Organic
• Drink Window: Now – 2034

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2020

Vinous — Antonio Galloni | 92 Points: Gorgeous. Floral, lifted and quite expressive, the 2020 has a lot to offer. It marries the richness of this southern district with lovely aromatic presence and a good bit of brightness. A complete, deeply satisfying wine to drink now and over the next decade or so. Drink 2024–2034.

Pairing Suggestions

• Classic Tuscan: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or pappardelle with meat sauce.
• Meat: Roasted lamb rack, braised short ribs, or aged beef tagliata.
• Cheese: Aged Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a firm sheep’s milk cheese.