90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

Expert Review

Eric Guido writes:  The 2023 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Malandrino entices with its mineral-drenched bouquet of crushed rock and smoke giving way to herbal-tinged blackberry. It sweeps across the palate with silken textures and ripe red and hints of blue fruits as a wave of cool-toned acidity maintains lovely energy. Long and potent, this leaves a subtle coating of fine tannins and nuances of licorice as it tapers off. This is already appealing today, despite its notable structure.  Drinking 2026 to 2031.  - Vinous 92

Winemaker Description

Dark ruby colored with intense aromas of black cherry, blackberry, plum and violets with a lovely earthy complexity. Full bodied in the mouth with a rich texture, supple tannins and a long persistent finish. Perfect for lamb chops, steak and roasted veggies. Made from organically grown grapes.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Cherry and blackberry fruit define this linear, fluid red. There’s also a line of sinewy tannins that leaves its mark on the earthy, salty finish. Fine length. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2027 through 2035.

James Suckling 92 Points: Toasted walnuts, ground spices and hints of chocolate, oranges and dark berries on the nose, leading to a firm and tense medium to full-bodied palate with fine tannins and a velvety core of dark fruit at the center. Lingering and structured. Drink or hold.

Winemaker Description 

Irrosso is the result of the union between Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon (85% Sangiovese & 15% Cabernet Sauvignon): it gives the idea of a young red, significant but with easy drinkability and is linked to the characteristics of its native territory, with an unforgettable Casanova di Neri stamp.

Memo Summary Notes

That is a highly-rated and fantastic "Super Tuscan" style wine from a top Montalcino producer! Casanova di Neri is globally recognized for its incredible Brunellos, and the Irrosso is their excellent, more approachable blend.

Its balance of fruit, structure, and acidity makes it versatile and highly food-friendly:

• Classic Italian: Pasta with rich meat sauces, Lasagna, or Pizza.

• Meats: Grilled meats, roasted poultry, or light game.

• Cheeses: Medium-aged Pecorino or other hard Italian cheeses.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022 

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | The 2022 Château Tronquoy is the finest vintage of this cuvée ever produced, offering fabulous aromatics of cassis, graphite, violets, flowers, chocolate, and earthy nuances. Full-bodied and beautifully rich and textured on the palate, with sweet tannins and a seamless, concentrated mouthfeel, it’s already hard to resist, and as I said from barrel, it shows the ripeness of the vintage while staying pure, balanced, and seamless. It’s going to benefit from just 4-6 years in the cellar and drink well for 25+ years. 

James Suckling 95 Points | Lots of blackberries, lead pencil, dark earth and blackcurrants. Bright and clear. Full-bodied with lots of fruit yet framed and structured with a deep and intense finish. It goes on for a long time. Greatest Tronquoy ever. A blend of 59% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot and 6% petit verdot. Needs five to six years to open. 

Expert Ratings  - Vintage 2020

94 Points James Suckling | Subtle aromas of sliced strawberries and cherries with some orange peel follow through to a medium body with succulent tannins and a bright and tangy finish. Lovely energy in this one. So good now. From organically grown grapes.

93 Points Wine Spectator | Rich and velvety, laced with black cherry, blackberry, violet and mineral flavors. This is driven by vibrant acidity and backed by well-mannered tannins. Shows excellent balance and length.

92 Points Decanter | This flagship Chianti Classico from the renowned Fontodi estate has grown over the years to its current annual production of 170,000 bottles, however it has not lost its identity, deeply rooted in a sun-drenched stretch of Panzano’s Conca d’Oro. The 2020 version has all the ripe dark fruit and assertive tannins that come so neatly into balance. Grilled meat, baked earth and thyme flirt with black plum. The youthful juiciness has the energy to carry this over the next eight or so years. It finishes with its signature bitter liquorice twist.

91 Points Robert Parker | A certified organic wine, the Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico shows dark fruit and blackberry with earthy sensations of crushed stone that reflect the schistous soils found in this area of the appellation. Unlike the Filetta di Lamole (with fruit from Lamole) that is very floral in personality, this expression from Panzano has more structure, girth and general fruit weight

Monica Larner writes:  A certified organic wine, the Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico shows dark fruit and blackberry with earthy sensations of crushed stone that reflect the schistous soils found in this area of the appellation. Unlike the Filetta di Lamole (with fruit from Lamole) that is very floral in personality, this expression from Panzano has more structure, girth and general fruit weight.   Drinking 2023 -2030.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 91

Walter Speller writes:  Panzano. 100% Sangiovese. Certified organic. Youthful ruby. Subtle yet enticing nose of sweet red fruit with meaty notes and hints of laurel. Lots of juice on the palate and plenty of grainy but ripe tannins; but they are in perfect harmony with the succulent fruit.  Drinking 2023 - 2032.  - Jancis Robinson 17++

Antonio Galloni writes:  The 2020 Chianti Classico offers notable tension to balance the natural richness that is such a signature here. There is plenty of Panzano intensity, but less opulence than has been the norm in the past. A shift towards larger format oak and bottling four months earlier contribute to that feel. Dark red cherry, leather, spice, rose petal, dried herbs and wild flowers all grace this nuanced Chianti Classico. It will be interesting to see the direction this bottling takes. I would not plan on opening this too young.  -  Vinous 92+

Memo Summary Notes

The Fontodi Chianti Classico 2020 is a benchmark expression of Sangiovese from the "Conca d’Oro" (Golden Shell) of Panzano. This vintage is noted for being slightly more reserved and structured than recent opulent years, offering a classic, high-energy profile that rewards decanting or a few more years in the cellar.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 92 Points | This is a wonderfully fresh and expressive dry riesling with a slew of citrus aromas, but also some spring flowers and meadows. The vivacity of the medium-bodied palate is as impressive as the depth in the long, crisp finish, where it bares its Alsace soul.

Winemaker Description

Famille Hugel signature wine. This dry Riesling stands out for its finesse and frankness and is the ideal partner to fish and seafood thanks to its wonderful balance and elegance.  It is Hugel's most demanding variety as it is also the latest ripening. Dry and elegant, it expresses itself best on our steepest slopes with the most complex minerality.

Winemaker Description 

Argyle Pinot Noir 2024 is a rich and complex wine that showcases the unique terroir of the Willamette Valley. With its range of flavors from juicy red cherry to blackberry, it evolves with exotic spices like star anise, peppercorn, and black tea. The wine is carefully fermented in small vessels to extract pillowy and refined tannins, while preserving its striking acidity, making it a youthful and age-worthy Pinot Noir.

This Pinot Noir is perfect for those who appreciate the depth and complexity of a well-crafted wine. The Argyle Pinot Noir 2024 is a perfect pairing for a variety of dishes, from grilled salmon to roasted duck or even mushroom risotto.

Wine Spectator - 91 Points - Vintage 2024

Fresh and lilting, with pretty cherry and cranberry flavors marked by toasty spice and orange peel accents that linger on the snappy finish. Drink now through 2034. -Tim Fish, Feb 2026 Wine Spectator - 91 points

Memo Summary Notes 

The Argyle Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2024 is the latest release of Argyle’s "core" Willamette Valley blend, a wine known for its consistency and fruit-forward style.

The 2024 vintage continues Argyle's tradition of showcasing the "purity of fruit" from Oregon’s premier growing region.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling 94 Points | A clean floral nose of sliced lemons, apples and white flowers with mineral nuances. The medium-bodied palate is textured and nicely framed, with juicy acidity and a mineral-laced finish.

Winemaker Description 

Straw yellow color with green tints. An intense and persistent nose with scents of flowers and plants, rosemary, thyme and sage. On the palate, clear predominance of vegetal notes, warm and full of good thickness and balanced with a long persistence. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Mora & Memo "Tino" Vermentino di Sardegna 2024 is a striking, modern expression of Sardinia’s signature white grape. Produced by Elisabetta Pala in the southeastern corner of the island (Serdiana), this winery is famous for its distinctive labels featuring the "Bandida"—a stylized woman in traditional Sardinian dress—reflecting the estate's balance of heritage and contemporary style.

Pair with 

• The "Island" Pairing: Perfect for Fritto Misto (fried seafood), grilled sea bass, or pasta with clams and bottarga (Sardinian cured fish roe).

• Modern Match: It pairs beautifully with herb-heavy dishes, such as Pesto Genovese, or creamy vegetable soups

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2025

James Suckling 91 Points | Spicy and a little green on the nose, offering white berries, currant leaves, white roses and hints of crushed stones. Very fresh and juicy on the palate, with a medium body, crunchy acidity and a tense and minerally finish.

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | An elegant style, with lime sorbet, quince, Fuji apple and lemon zest, plus a touch of lemon basil, all on a sleek and juicy frame that lingers.

Winemaker Description 

Winemaker Description

Showing vivacity, concentration and brightness, the Estate wines are crafted from both our glacial stones and windblown clay terroirs. Combining the best nuances of Marlborough and our Sancerre heritage, this organic Sauvignon Blanc is our flagship wine from the Clos Henri estate in Blenheim. 

Clos Henri Estate Sauvignon Blanc (formerly known as Petit Clos Sauvignon Blanc) offers notes of peach and nectarine are paired with elderflower and soft gunflint minerality. Textural, with zingy acidity and a flinty, mineral nuance this wine is both fresh and concentrated.

Enjoy on its own as an aperitif or with fresh shellfish as well as with ceviche, Thai green curry, tomato and goat’s cheese tart. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2024 

James Sucklings 94 Points | Very Sancerre-like with subtle lemon rind, light white pepper and green melon. The palate is refined and polished with hints of orange blossoms at the end. Pretty acidity. Sophisticated sauvignon. 

The Wine Advocate 93 Points | The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc is ripe and concentrated on the nose, with persimmon and tangelo, lemon rind and green apple. In the mouth, the wine is possessed of an array of flavors, from salted nuts, almond meal, vanilla pod and caper brine right through to a cavalcade of citrus fruits and a suggestion of coriander/cilantro. This is eminently sophisticated, yet it delivers the Marlborough intensity and focus of acidity and fruit. It's excellent. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Winemaker Description

This riserva has a luminous ruby red color. Appealing aromas of dark cherries, plums, sweet spice, violets, vanilla and hints of dark chocolate and menthol emerge on the nose. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied but smooth with an almost creamy mouthfeel. Tannins are well integrated with the alcohol, and lead to a subtly sweet, silky finish.

Pair this wine with Korean short ribs, ragù sauces, gnocchi with roasted rabbit, and beef negimaki.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

James Suckling 94 Points | Subtle aromas of black cherries, tar, mushrooms, black truffles and dark earth. Medium- to full-bodied with refined and linear tannins that give tension and focus to the wine. Delicate finish. From organically grown grapes. Lovely now. Drink or hold.

Vinous 91 Points | The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Berardo is a powerful, layered wine. Black cherry, liquorice, cloves, leather and scorched earth all run through this brooding, imposing Riserva. There's a lot to like here, especially in the way this opens with time in the glass.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Vinous 93 Points | Darkly alluring, the 2020 Nobile di Montepulciano lifts from the glass with rosemary and sage, complicating dried black cherries and hints of dark chocolate. This is pure elegance, soft and enveloping, flaunting its ripe vintage fruit with a core of zesty acidity that maintains fantastic balance. A coating of fine tannins tugs at the palate with youthful poise, and a tart cranberry concentration fades. This tremendous effort from the warm vintage should not be missed. That said, the production of Cantina Dei's Nobile was down by 50% due to the conditions of the year.

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | Supple and fluid, this red exudes cherry, loam, iron and eucalyptus flavors. Dusty tannins creep in as this evolves to the finish, where there's a lingering salty taste. Prugnolo Gentile and Canaiolo. Drink now through 2036. 10,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.

Winemaker Description

The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano has a brilliant ruby red color, with garnet tinges as it ages. It has an intense bouquet with aromas of ripe cherries, plums and violets. It represents the perfect combination of structure and elegance: its full body and velvety tannins are balanced by its fine acidity. The wine is decidedly persistent and harmonious.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Sucklng 93 Points | Salt and pepper with minerals. Fairly neutral, this is light-bodied but superjuicy and long with a savory finish. A food-friendly wine.

Winemaker Description 

Intensive straw yellow. Our Pinot Grigio pairs stimulating fruit - reminiscent of Williams pear, lychee and white melon - with the floral aromatic character of a freshly mown meadow. Taste: With its finely balanced components – from aromas of black tea to exotic fruity nuances of melon and ripe grapefruit – this is a superbly full and at the same time mellow wine. 

This wine is quite versatile due to its balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality. 

• South Tyrolean appetizers (smoked bacon, cured meats).

• Herb risotto, nettle gnocchi, or beetroot dumplings.

  • Lightly truffled dishes.

  • Tender veal and fine grilled fish.

    
    

     

  
  
  
  

   

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

James Suckling 95 Points | The lead pencil and blackcurrant aromas are very impressive. Full-bodied and tannic, but very velvety with fine texture. Lots of pretty fruit. Typical for the appellation. Second wine of Domaine de Chevalier. Try after 2028.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | The 2020 L'Esprit De Chevalier is more restrained aromatically, yet has outstanding purity in its red and black fruits as well as notes of dried herbs, tobacco, chocolate, and damp earth. It's a medium-bodied, elegant, balanced, and certainly delicious second wine that will benefit from just a year or two of bottle age and shine for a decade.

Vinous 91 Points | The 2020 Esprit de Chevalier has a very perfumed, floral bouquet with pressed iris and peony infusing the blackberry and blueberry fruit. Very controlled and classic in style. The palate is medium-bodied with quite concentrated black fruit laced with white pepper and a touch of Provençal herbs. Slight viscosity here, powerful with a generous finish, this is a superb Deuxième Vin that should give 12-15 years' drinking pleasure.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Fleshy and demonstrative, the 2020 L'Esprit de Chevalier bursts with aromas of sweet berries, plums and petals. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, with polished tannins and an expansive finish, it will drink well young.

Winemaker Description

Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for its ability to produce great wines even in unfashionable vintages thanks to its unique terroir and a draconian selection in the vineyard and the cellar. In fact, this philosophy at times requires vineyard workers to carry out five waves of picking in order to pick only the ripest possible grapes.

Furthermore, as of 1986, the planting of young vines led to the creation of both a red and white second wine called Esprit de Chevalier. This includes vats that do not have quite the structure and focus of the grand vin as well as wine made from young vines, Vats that go into red Esprit de Chevalier must nevertheless be complex, well-balanced, well-structured and, above all, elegant enough to be in keeping with Chevalier’s image. Esprit de Chevalier is a charming red wine with many of the same qualities as the grand vin and the added advantage that can be enjoyed earlier.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Matt Kettmann writes 91 Points | Toasted almond, citrus pith and light dairy aromas show on the nose of this appellation cuvée. The palate picks up an earthier line, as chaparral rock and herb flavors meet with brighter lemon and dried pear elements.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | From grapes grown primarily in San Luis Obispo, the 2023 Chardonnay is a nicely integrated, full-bodied white with grainy texture and flavors of lemon pith, tangerine and wet stone. Hugely enjoyable, with a rounded mouthfeel and long-lasting acidity, it is drinking well now but should continue to be great another 5-7 years.

Winery Notes

Impeccably balanced, this Chardonnay reflects its cool-climate coastal roots with aromas of lemon zest, apricot, and delicate orange blossom. On the palate, vibrant notes of golden apple and pineapple are elevated by bright acidity, delivering focus and energy to a crisp, refreshing finish.

The 2023 growing season began with a long, wet winter, followed by an early spring that delayed budbreak across the Central Coast. Moderate spring weather provided near-ideal conditions for bloom, while the mild temperatures persisted into summer. This extended the ripening period by an additional month, allowing the fruit to achieve exceptional ripeness with a harmonious balance of acidity and concentration.

In 1975, legendary vintner and pioneer Josh Jensen founded Calera (Spanish for “lime kiln”) high in the Gavilan Mountains of California’s majestic Central Coast. In the four decades since, Calera has helped establish the Central Coast as one of the New World’s most exciting wine regions, while earning acclaim as one of California’s iconic wineries. Sourced from some of the appellation’s finest vineyards, the Calera Central Coast Chardonnay has become a benchmark for the region, balancing lush richness with beautiful minerality and bright citrus flavors.

Memo Pairing Suggestions

Food Pairings: Pairs excellently with grilled fish, roasted chicken, wild mushroom ravioli in a light cream sauce, or salads with goat cheese.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Classic granite notes of cassis and darker cherries, graphite, crushed stone, pepper, and violets all emerge from the 2023 Saint Joseph Offerus. Medium-bodied, focused, and beautifully balanced on the palate, with textbook Saint Joseph tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a crisp, mineral-laced finish, it will evolve nicely over the coming 8-10 years. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2023 

The Tasting Panel 92 Points | This widely available Pinot punches way above the weight its price tag might imply. Savory notes of tilled earth and loam are perked up by a punch of red-cherry acidity and crunchy minerality. An appealing umami core provides the spine around which brambly berries and cherries sing with woodsy spice.

Winemaker Description 

The wine has a beautiful vibrant red color, and a deep brooding aroma reminiscent of dried herbs, toasted hazelnuts, and blood orange peel. The flavors are bright from acidity, and deep from concentration at the same time having flavors of shiitake mushrooms, bay laurel, lavender, and cooked red and blackberries. The wine is amazingly complex, bright, rich, and inviting. Winemaker Description. 

Memo Summary Notes

Pair with

    •    Mains: Roast duck, grilled salmon, or herb-crusted pork tenderloin.
    •    Vegetarian: Mushroom risotto or earthy lentil stews.
    •    Appetizers: Charcuterie boards with prosciutto and mild, nutty cheeses.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Tasting Panel 93 Points | This wine glistens with bright acidity accented by pink grapefruit and just-sliced pineapple. Candied green apple punctuates the midpalate with appealing salinity and crispness.

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | A distinctive white, with white pepper and lemongrass notes, plus a whiff of lemon mint that adds aromatic interest to the core of lemon-lime and apple on a smooth and juicy frame. Demonstrates elegance on the finish. Drink now. 35,000 cases imported.

Vinous 90 Points | This is not your average 2023 Sauvignon Blanc. It's aromatically intriguing, with different layers appearing with every sniff. Initially, there are notes of medicinal herbs, followed by blackcurrant, green capsicum, passion fruit and even lime. Perhaps the diversity of scents could be attributed to the combination of fermentations across tanks, oak barrels, concrete eggs and amphorae. The palate is focused on texture: there's reassuring padding on the mid-palate despite being light in body, while there's drive and punch on the dry, herbal finish.

Winemaker Description 

Pale straw with a hint of green and gold. Complex and elegant Sauvignon Blanc bouquet, with citrus blossom and wild flowers, surrounded by crushed ripe herbs and pineapple. Dense fruit core of juicy melon and peach complemented by hints of ripe herbs and florals. Beautifully rounded with layer upon layer of texture, this wine has a long, complex finish with plenty of minerality, citrus, ripe stone fruit and an umami quality.

A good match for oysters, seafood, spaghetti alle vongole and chicken. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling 91 Points | Peaches, lemons, celery and pineapple on the nose of this juicy white. It’s medium-bodied with excellent freshness and a deliciously peachy finish. Vegan. Drink now. Screw cap.

Winemaker Description 

Martin Nigl's Freheit Gruner Veltliner is sourced from four different vineyards in the hills above the city of Krems. The soils here are primarily löss and the temperature is moderated by its steep elevation. The name ‘Freiheit’ means “freedom” and is believed to be some of the first privately owned vineyard land in the valley not controlled by the Church or a feudal estate. Fermentation and élevage occur in stainless steel and is bottled at night when the cellars of the coolest has Martin feels this helps preserve the freshness of the wines.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2024 Nigl Grüner Veltliner "Freiheit" is a classic expression of Austrian white wine from the Kremstal region. Known for its precision and freshness, the "Freiheit" (meaning freedom) refers to the historical status of the vineyards, independent of church or feudal control.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 93 Points | A stunning, entry-level dry riesling with an impressive depth of stone fruit and a touch of flint that gives it energy on the medium-bodied palate. Long, compact, salty finish. A cuvee of wines that are 40% from Ruppertsberg and 60% from Wachenheim, mostly from young vineyards. From biodynamically grown grapes. Vegan.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | The 2023 Riesling Trocken is still closed and reductive in its pretty spicy and phenolic, initially rather grassy nose that opens up in the glass to deliver ripe lemon aromas intertwined with notes of broken sandstones. Round and lush on the palate, this is a juicy, elegant and quite intense or even extract-rich Riesling with ripe acidity and good, phenolic grip. 12% stated alcohol. Screw-cap closure.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Jeff Leve (The Wine Cellar Insider) 88-91 Points | Medium-bodied, fresh, fruity, floral, and soft with polished fruits.

The Wine Independent 91 Points | Sweet berries with spices; creamy and polished tannins; velvety texture.

Vert de Vin 90 Points | Fruity, with pulpy and generous fruit, precise and firm tannins.

Winemaker Description 

Crisp, fresh and effortlessly cool, our CHANDON Brut is your go-to choice bubbly for entertaining, sipping and gifting. A classic expression of our California vineyards, signature green apple, pear and citrus notes precede a soft, dry finish. 2023 Decanter Bronze Medal 91 Points

2022 Decanter Bronze Medal 88 Points

2022 Women's Wine & Spirits Awards DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL winner!

2022 Sommelier’s Choice Award 88 points SILVER medal!

2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition SILVER medal!

Winemaker Description

Lush, layered and complex, this enticing Pinot Noir draws you in with aromas of ripe raspberry and black cherry, as well as notions of pennyroyal, clove and sweet baking spices. On the palate supple tannins and elegantly balanced acidity frame juicy flavors of blackberry and Bing cherry, with savory hints of nutmeg, leather and breakfast tea emerging on the long, robust finish.

Expert Review

92 Points Wine Spectator | Juicy and inviting, with tasty raspberry and mulberry notes infused with pine forest, red tea and wet earth accents. Keeps the fleshy, juicy feel through the lightly toasted finish. Drink now through 2028.

Expert Reviews 

92 Points Wine Spectator:  A vivacious Champagne, this shows flavors of black cherry, toast point, white peach puree and salted almond set on a finely detailed mousse. Creamy and mouthwatering on the spiced finish. Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Drink now.

92 Points Decanter:  Racy nose of real finesse appeals instantly. A well-hewn palate with bright florals and red fruit notes with delicate flavours of honey. Blend : 20% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Meunier, 50% Pinot Noir

90 Points Wine Enthusiast | The Champagne is balanced between a soft Brut character and crisper lemon flavors. That balance gives a fine wine, open and easy, but with a fine bite of acidity at the end.

90 Points Wine & Spirits | Clean Champagne, green-gold in color with the flavor of peaches just coming into ripeness, this wine’s cool mineral savor brings to mind grapes sautéed in butter, as in sole Véronique, with which this wine would partner well.

90 Points James Suckling | This has attractive aromas of croissants, sourdough, dried lemons, apricots, figs and walnuts. Soft and balanced on the palate, with a medium body, creamy mousse and a dry, rounded finish. Drink now.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Michaela Morris of Decanter Magazine (93 Points) writes:  Evocatively scented with wild red berries and touches of vanillin and spice. An underlying dark earthiness pervades throughout. Fine tannins increase steadily across the palate, as does a richness of raspberry fruit. But all is in harmony. Hints of tea, then a huge hit of citrus lead to the savoury, mouth-cleansing finish. While rooted in the village of La Morra, the Oddero estate boasts impressive vineyard holdings throughout the entirety of the denomination, making for an impressive range of Barolo. The ‘classic’ bottling incorporates younger vines, mostly from sites in La Morra as well as Bricco Fiasco in Castiglione Falletto. Gorgeously approachable now but will keep evolving. 

Antonio Galloni  of Vinous (92 Points) writes:  The 2021 Barolo is fabulous. Aromatic, pliant and wonderfully inviting. Oddero's Barolo shows just how appealing this vintage is. Crushed flowers, red/blue-toned fruit, spice and perfumed notes build nicely in the glass. Polished, silky tannins wrap it all together in style. Vineyard sources are Bricco Chiesa, Capalot, Bricco Fiasco and a bit of Galina.  

Winemaker Notes

The 2023 Far Niente Chardonnay enchants with a bouquet of citrus, white floral, and hints of honeydew melon and nectarine. Its silky texture and bright, refreshing palate dance with flavors of lemon/lime zest and lemon verbena, culminating in a long, juicy finish that leaves the palate yearning for more.

Expert Rating

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

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 91 Points | A delicious, round and silky white with aromas of fresh lemons, white peaches and warm spices on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with moderate acidity. Supple, with a mineral undertone at the center and a succulent finish.

Winemaker Description 

Insolia grapes are manually selected in the Nordic microclimate of Ficuzza, Cusumano's largest vineyard, located in Northern Sicily. Light straw color with soft aromas of freshly-picked flowers and herbs. This Insolia opens the palate with refreshing flavors of apples and pears. Hints of citrus zest lingers throughout for a harmonious balance.

Pairs with lighter dishes such as salads or seafood.

Memo Summary Notes

The Cusumano Insolia 2023 is a refreshing, light-bodied Sicilian white wine that offers fantastic value. Grown in the high-altitude Ficuzza vineyard in northern Sicily, it’s known for its crisp acidity and Mediterranean flair, often serving as a great alternative to Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Pair with seafood appetizers, sushi, grilled branzino, or pasta with clams.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  Juicy citrus, tart pineapple, and mint herb notes, as well as some classic background mineral and salty nuances, emerge from the 2022 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills, a medium-bodied Chardonnay that's nicely balanced, has bright yet integrated acidity, and outstanding length. The appellation release comes 90% from La Rinconada and 10% from Sanford & Benedict, saw malolactic in barrel (as do all of these Chardonnays from Sanford), and 11 months in 25% new French oak. Drink bottles through 2032.  - Jeb Dunnuck 91

Jim Gordon writes:  A delicious, generous and moderately oaked wine. It offers warm, toasted almond aromas and cool golden apple, kiwi and guava notes on the palate. Full-bodied, creamy and layered, well balanced by light acidity. Drink now.  - James Suckling 93

Antonio Galloni writes:  The 2022 Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills) is a fabulous appellation-level wine that shows how compelling the 2022 vintage can be. Apricot, yellow flowers, chamomile and light tropical accents all grace this tasty, inviting Chardonnay. Most of the fruit is from La Rinconada.  Drinking 2024 to 2030.  - Vinous 90

Winemaker Description 

Expert Ratings - Vintage 2015

Eric Guido writes: Brown spice, crushed fall leaves cherry sauce and a lifting hint of fresh mint form a darkly alluring bouquet as the 2015 Montefalco Sagrantino Memoira opens in the glass. This washes across the palate with a velvety wave of ripe red and black fruits, underscored by saline minerals and a burst of spiced citrus. Long and potent, the 2015 leaves a web of fine tannins that are surprisingly sweet and round, nicely framing the notes of sour wild berries and dark chocolate that linger. - Vinous 92

James Suckling writes: The candied strawberries and caramelized orange peel draw you in on the nose; then you notice hints of ash and red licorice. The full-bodied palate has quite a serious tannin backbone, and vibrant red fruit lies beneath waiting to be drawn out tightly by a fine acid edge. The finish is quite fruit-forward. Drink now. - James Suckling 92

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

James Suckling 91 Points | Perfumed nose of cedar, spearmint, morello cherry, vanilla and lemon verbena. Medium-bodied with polished tannins. Spicy character with ambitious new wood. Mocha at the end.

Winemaker Description 

The Castellani Family has been producing classic Tuscan wines for more than 150 years. The wines are true classic expressions of their unique Tuscan terroir. The 2023 Chianti is ruby-garnet in color with intense aromas of morello cherries and strawberries. A lovely balance of bright fruit, mouthwatering acidity and well balanced tannins. Ideal with pasta with meat or tomato sauce, hamburgers, roast or braised veal, and excellent with mushroom inspired dishes.

Memo Summary Notes

The Famiglia Castellani Sangiovese Toscana 2019 is an acclaimed "crowd-pleaser" that has gained a significant following in the U.S. for its high quality-to-price ratio. Unlike the more rustic Torrebruna we looked at, this bottling from the Castellani family—winemakers since 1903—is known for a more polished, "perfumed" style, often receiving high scores from critics like James Suckling for its modern approach to the traditional Sangiovese grape.

Pair with 

Classic: Spaghetti Bolognese, Lasagna, or Eggplant Parmigiana.

• Meats: Chicken Scarpariello or grilled pork chops with rosemary.

• The "Best" Match: This is frequently cited as one of the best "Pizza Reds" on the market because its bright cherry acidity cuts through rich cheese and tomato sauce perfectly.

Winemaker Notes

The Canals Canals family elaborated this rosé cava with the red grape varieties Pinot noir 85% and Garnatxa 15%, following the Traditional Method, secondary fermentation of wines in the bottle and aged on lees for over 24 months on lees in our cellars.

• Appearance: presents a deep red-coloured cava with fine and persistent bubbles.
• Aroma: fresh, floral, ripened red fruits with slightly nutty nose.
• Palate: perfectly balanced, full-bodied, pleasant with long and clean finish.
• Gastronomy: recommended for aperitif or combined with pasta, rice, blue fish, well-seasoned white meat and red meat stews.
• Tips: served cold, between 6ºC to 8ºC, in tulip glass type, transparent, tall, thin and without decoration.

• GOLD MEDAL – SPARKLING WINE RESERVA ROSÉ – VINARI AWARDS BARCELONA ROSÉ INTERNATIONAL BUBBLES AWARDS 2025
• 90 POINTS – GOURMETS GUIDE 2025 
• GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2024
• 90 POINTS – JAMES SUCKLING
• 90 POINTS – GOURMETS GUIDE 2024 
• SILVER MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2022
• GOLD MEDAL – CATAVINUM WORLD WINE & SPIRITS COMPETITION 2022
• 92 POINTS – GOURMETS GUIDE 2021 – BEST CAVAS
• 90 POINTS – JAMES SUCKLING
• 91 POINTS – GOURMETS GUIDE 2019 – BEST CAVAS UNDER 20 €

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com writes | Chenin Blanc is a grape that generally flies under the radar screen, which to me is baffling given its charming character and pleasant drinkability. Father and son Francois and Julien Pinon work exclusively with Chenin Blanc on their 15 hectare estate in the Vallée de Cousse. Their work in the vineyard is in complete in harmony with natural and they have been certified organic by Ecocert since 2003. 

The 2022 Vouvray Buvez du Bon Pinon sports a gorgeous bouquet reminiscent of a walk through an orchard field during spring blossom. Aromas of white stone fruits, peaches, pears, wildflower honey and quince emerge from the glass with lively fanfare. Energetic and effortless in the mouth with refreshing lift and well balanced vibrant acidity, with a long and tangy delicious finish. 

This is a wine that will add cheerful accompaniment to chicken, seafood, salads and vegetable dishes.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022 

John Gilman - The View From The Cellar writes 94 Points | The special old vine bottling of Vouvray Sec, “Buvez du Bon Pinon”, made its debut in the 2020 vintage. Readers may remember that Julien Pinon made this wine in hommage to his greatgrandfather, Camille Pinon, and the wine is made from vines planted by Camille in the immediate aftermath of World War II in 1945, in a parcel of Silex Noir soils. The wine is barrel-fermented and raised in the same old casks, which happen to be the oldest that the family still owns. The 2022 follow-up to the brilliant 2020 version is also outstanding, offering up a deep and complex bouquet of apple, quince, beeswax, flinty soil tones, white lilies, iris blossoms and a touch of citrus peel in the upper register. On the palate the wine is bright, full-bodied, young and complex, with a rock solid core of fruit from these ancient vines, great soil signature, zesty acids and superb balance on the long, vibrant and very promising finish. The 2022 version is a touch more reticent out of the blocks than the 2020, which wore its heart on its sleeve upon release, and tucking this beautiful bottle of Vouvray in the cellars for a handful of years before pulling corks would be well rewarded.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The Alta Mora 2023 Etna Bianco is 100% Carricante that is aged in stainless steel on the fine lees for 10 months. The fruit used here represents an informal blend from the Contrade Arrigo, Verzelle and Piano dei Daini. This wine shows a golden straw color with medium texture and a little extra heft from a hot vintage that you feel over the palate. It offers waxy aromas of sweet peach and poached pear. There is more richness here compared to your standard Etna Bianco.

Producer Description 

This bright, lively wine showcases an abundance of berry flavors and aromas. Red raspberry, wild blackberry, and a touch of cranberry are balanced with spicy notes of anise and cinnamon. This medium-bodied Zinfandel lingers for a long, smooth finish.

Pair with barbecue, blue cheese and cheeseburgers.

Expert Review

Wine Spectator 90 Points | Jammy and generous but not blowsy, this Zin is loaded with blackberry and cherry flavors that are accented with hints of pepper and licorice.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019 

Neal Martin writes: The 2019 has a beguiling bouquet with red berry fruit, truffle and light Provençal herb scents that are beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins. This is exquisite in terms of balance, silky smooth, building gradually with a harmonious and quite effortless finish. Divine - this is a stellar showing. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. - Vinous 97

Georgina Hindle writes: A rich, full and heady nose. On the palate there's ripe blackcurrant, red cherries, raspberries and strawberries but also some mint, black pepper and truffle. Excellent precision and density with a seductive dark chocolate edge. Feels well handled with a sense of classicism. A powerful, muscular and confident wine, but with suppleness - this has density but also grace with a cooling finish comprising liquorice, mint and soft salinity. A great wine. Drinking - Decanter 97

James Suckling writes: A perfumed nose of mulberries, plums, chocolate orange and cloves. Hints of toffee, too. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, ripe tannins. Caressing, velvety and rich core of dark fruit. So supple and polished. 88.5% merlot, 7% cabernet sauvignon and 4.5% cabernet franc. Drink after 2024. - James Suckling 95

William Kelley writes: The 2019 Gazin is a fleshy, dramatic wine that wafts from the glass with aromas of ripe berry fruit mingled with subtle hints of truffle and violets, its new oak already entirely integrated. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless, it's broad and textural, with lively acids, powdery tannins and fine length on the finish. - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94

Jeb Dunnuck writes: While the 2019 Château Gazin isn't going to match the 2018, it's an elegant, solid Pomerol delivering spicy red and black cherry fruits, notes of cedary herbs and flowers, medium-bodied richness, silky yet building tannins, and a great finish. This elegant, nicely structured, balanced beauty will benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and keep for 15-20 years. - Jeb Dunnuck 94

Winemaker Description

This is a quintessential Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with pronounced aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla that welcome you into the glass. Flavors of black plums, nutmeg, dark chocolate, and a touch of espresso enhance the wine's complex and full-bodied structure, with a core of elegant acidity from start to finish.