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Pindar Vineyards Pythagoras Red Bordeaux NY Blend

Experience the rich flavor of Pindar Vineyards Pythagoras Red Bordeaux Blend, a special red wine first crafted to celebrate Pindar's 15th anniversary of winemaking on Long Island. This thoughtful blend showcases the round and full characteristics of Merlot with the slight herbal notes of Cabernets, capturing the unique terroir of Long Island in each bottle. This represents not just a drink, but a testament to the growing wine culture of New York's North Fork region.

Pindar Vineyards - Long Island Wine Pioneer

Pindar Vineyards has established itself as a beacon of quality in the New York wine scene. As one of Long Island's pioneering wineries, Pindar has been instrumental in establishing the North Fork as a premier wine region. Known for its exquisite blends, Pindar Vineyards aims to capture the unique terroir of Long Island in each bottle, showcasing what New York wines can offer.

15th Anniversary Celebration Wine

This special red was first crafted to celebrate Pindar's 15th anniversary of winemaking on Long Island. The Pythagoras Red represents a milestone in the winery's history and their commitment to producing exceptional Bordeaux-style blends that honor both tradition and the distinctive character of Long Island viticulture.

Bordeaux-Style Blend

The Pythagoras Red Bordeaux blend showcases a thoughtful mix of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. This classic Bordeaux-style blend combines the best characteristics of each varietal, creating a wine with complexity, structure, and elegance. The rich fusion offers wine lovers an opportunity to experience world-class Bordeaux-style winemaking from New York.

Winemaker's Vision

According to the winemaker: "This special red was first crafted to celebrate our 15th anniversary of winemaking on Long Island. It has the round and full characteristics of Merlot with the slight herbal notes of Cabernets." This vision guides the blend's character, balancing fruit richness with herbal complexity.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep ruby red
Aroma: Inviting bouquet of dark berries and floral undertones. Ripe plum and cherry notes with subtle hints of oak and spice
Palate: Round and full characteristics of Merlot with slight herbal notes of Cabernets. Layers of flavors including raspberry, blackcurrant, and delicate herbal nuances. Ripe plum, cherry, oak, and spice. Well-integrated tannins
Finish: Smooth finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate

Long Island Terroir

Each sip provides a journey through flavors that reflect Long Island's unique terroir. The North Fork's maritime climate, with its moderating ocean influence and well-drained soils, creates ideal conditions for growing Bordeaux varietals. This terroir imparts distinctive character to the wine, setting it apart from other regions.

Round & Full with Herbal Notes

The wine has the round and full characteristics of Merlot with the slight herbal notes of Cabernets. This balance creates a wine that is both approachable and complex, offering immediate pleasure while revealing layers of flavor with each sip.

Well-Integrated Tannins

The tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate. This complexity makes it a fantastic wine for various occasions, whether enjoyed during a casual dinner or a celebratory feast. Pindar's meticulous crafting of this blend reflects their commitment to excellence in winemaking.

Food Pairing Suggestions

To truly appreciate the Pythagoras Red Bordeaux blend, pairing it with the right dishes is essential. This versatile wine complements a variety of foods:

• Grilled meats (lamb chops, steaks, burgers)
• Hearty pasta dishes
• Robust cheeses
• Rich mushroom risotto
• Roasted poultry
• Barbecue and grilled fare
• Charcuterie boards

Versatile for Any Occasion

This versatile wine makes it a popular choice at dinner parties and gatherings. Whether you're hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Pindar Vineyards Pythagoras Red is sure to elevate your meal and impress your guests. The wine's balance and approachability make it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

New York Wine Excellence

Each bottle represents a piece of Long Island's rich harvest and the growing wine culture of the region. The Pythagoras Red showcases the quality and character that New York wines can achieve, demonstrating that world-class Bordeaux-style blends can be produced outside of France.

Layers of Complexity

Upon sipping, the wine unfolds layers of flavors, including raspberry, blackcurrant, and delicate herbal nuances. This complexity creates a wine that rewards contemplation while remaining accessible and enjoyable for all wine lovers.

North Fork Heritage

Pindar Vineyards' commitment to excellence in winemaking shines through in the Pythagoras Red. As a pioneer in Long Island's North Fork wine region, Pindar has helped establish the area's reputation for producing exceptional wines that rival those from more established regions.

Perfect for Wine Enthusiasts

With each bottle, you experience not just good wine but a piece of Long Island's winemaking history. The Pythagoras Red offers wine lovers an opportunity to explore New York's wine culture while enjoying a beautifully crafted Bordeaux-style blend that honors both tradition and terroir.

Winemaker Notes

Aromas of red fruits with flavors of fragrant cherry, black pepper, and notes of wood. Hints of raspberry lead to a lingering finish.

About the Wine

The David & Nadia Topography Pinotage 2024 is a definitive example of the "New Wave" South African wine movement. David and Nadia Sadie are leading figures in the Swartland region, celebrated for their minimal-intervention, terroir-focused approach that reimagines Pinotage as an elegant, fresh, and cerebral wine rather than a heavy or rustic one.

This is Pinotage for people who think they don’t like Pinotage.

Tasting & Pairings

Fragrant cherry, raspberry, black pepper, and subtle wood notes. Fresh, elegant, and medium-bodied with a lingering finish. Serve at cellar temperature or with a slight chill.

• Grilled lamb chops with Ras el Hanout — North African spices complement the peppery fruit.
• Pulled pork or smoked duck — the wine’s freshness cuts through rich, smoky meats.
• Mushroom risotto or roasted squash — savory herbs and earthy flavors are a natural match.
• South African braai (BBQ) — the traditional pairing, and for good reason.

About Damso Peach Soju

Damso Peach Soju captures the sweet, sun-ripened taste of fresh peaches in every sip. Light, smooth, and refreshing, it brings the approachable character of traditional Korean soju together with a luscious peach flavor — perfect for sipping chilled or mixing into your favorite cocktails.

Serving Suggestions

• Chilled neat or over ice
• Mixed with sparkling water, iced tea, or lemonade
• In a peach soju spritz with prosecco and fresh mint
• Paired with Korean BBQ, spicy dishes, or light Asian cuisine

• Spirit: Soju
• Flavor: Peach
• Origin: South Korea
• Size: 375ml
• Closure: Screwcap

Expert Reviews

Winemaker Description

Sea Sun Pinot Noir has aromas of cherry, light toasted wood, dry earth, clove and a hint of s'mores. The flavors echo the cherry on the nose, with raspberry on the finish. Bright and fruit-driven, with lush cherries and a strikingly soft texture. 

Winemaker Description 

With deep expertise in the world of Pinot Noir, Dan Kosta's admiration for the grape began at an early age, taking sips from his father's glass of Burgundy and listening to stories about wine around the dinner table.

His fascination continued as he became a wine buyer, sommelier, and vintner known for producing highly-renowned, world-class wines. Dan's lifelong passion for Pinot Noir is evident in Admire, the latest creation from his native Sonoma Coast. 

This wine is 100% Pinot Noir, sourced entirely from the Sonoma Coast appellation. Harvested in early September, this Pinot Noir was aged in 100% French Oak, 30% new for 9 months. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Admire by Dan Kosta Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 is a standout choice for those who love high-end Pinot Noir but want to stay in a more approachable price bracket. Dan Kosta (co-founder of the legendary Kosta Browne) launched this label to capture the elegance of the Sonoma Coast with more immediate accessibility.

Food: Its bright acidity makes it perfect for herbed chevre (goat cheese), roasted duck, or mushroom risotto.

One of Italy's most celebrated and collectible wines, Masseto 2020 is a monument to Merlot — a single-vineyard icon from the Bolgheri coast of Tuscany that stands alongside the greatest wines in the world. Produced by Tenuta dell'Ornellaia from the legendary Masseto vineyard on the Maremma hillside, the 2020 vintage has earned near-perfect scores across every major critic, cementing its place as one of the finest Massetos ever made.

The Masseto Estate

The Masseto vineyard sits on a unique outcrop of blue-grey Pliocene clay soils in Bolgheri, Tuscany — a terroir of extraordinary character that produces Merlot of unparalleled depth and complexity. Since its first vintage in 1986, Masseto has become one of Italy's most sought-after wines, now operating as an independent estate. The 2020 vintage marks a new chapter with winemaker Gaia Cinnirella and the introduction of a small percentage of Cabernet Franc, adding a new dimension of aromatic complexity to this iconic wine.

Critical Acclaim — 2020 Vintage

100 Points — Decanter: "Nuanced and complex, still packing a punch in terms of power, but this feels sophisticated, suave, purposeful and controlled. A truly delicious wine with so much purity and sense of place."

99 Points — Wine Enthusiast: "A hedge maze of aromas greets the nose, from blackberries and black cherries to crushed stones and crumpled petals. Tannins are tightly stitched together across the palate like a tapestry. A wine that speaks volumes without shouting."

99 Points — James Suckling: "Full-bodied with superb concentration and fine, velvety tannins that run the length of the wine. It's big but agile and gorgeous. Merlot. What a wine! Best after 2030."

99 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "Incredibly expressive, with a sweet perfume of candied plum, boysenberry, crushed flowers, mocha, sweet earth, and fresh sage. Great finesse and polish that features opulence without having weight."

98 Points — Vinous: "Superb. Bright and vibrant, exceptionally polished and sophisticated. In 2020, Masseto is more finesse than power."

97 Points — Wine Spectator: "Complex, with a luscious texture. Offers a lively, well-integrated structure with a long aftertaste of fruit and spices. Best from 2025 through 2043."

96 Points — Wine Advocate: "A vintage of enormous richness and density. This wine is always hard to analyze in its youth. It needs many more years to soften and flesh out. Give it time."

Tasting Profile

Intense and full on the nose — ripe black fruit, crushed flowers, mocha, graphite, and soft spicing. On the palate it's rich and muscular yet tight and coiled, with velvety tannins of extraordinary finesse, vibrant acidity, and a long, sustained finish of dark fruit, leather, and mineral earth. A caged animal with its full potential yet to be unveiled.

Details

2020 | Merlot, Cabernet Franc | Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy | Toscana IGT | 750ml

Ageing

24 months in 100% new barriques, 12 months in bottle

Cellaring & Serving

Best from 2028–2043. Decant for a minimum of 2–3 hours if opening now. Serve at 61–64°F in a large Bordeaux glass. A wine built for the cellar — patience will be richly rewarded.

Winemaker Description

Israel. 100% Petite Verdot Produced from grapes grown on old vines in the Carmel region. After fermentation and soaking on the skins, the wine aged in French oak barrels for 15 months.

The wine has a deep purple hue and aromas of blackberries, blueberries, licorice and leather. It is full bodied and has a long and well-balanced finish. Pair with lamb based casseroles, and pasta dishes with a mushroom or meat broth base.

Kosher for Passover.

Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto — Rioja, Spain 2023

Bodegas Gomez Cruzado is one of Rioja's most exciting modern producers — a historic estate in Haro, the heart of Rioja Alta, that has undergone a remarkable transformation under the direction of winemaker Amanda Klemp, who has brought a precision-focused, terroir-driven approach to the cellar while honoring the estate's deep roots in the region. El Predilecto — "The Favorite" — is a total departure from the Rioja norm: a blend of old vine Garnacha and Tempranillo sourced from two distinct mountain landscapes, united in concrete and crafted to express the full complexity of Rioja's diverse terroir. The Garnacha (65%) comes from Alto Najerilla, in the triangle formed by the towns of Badarán, Cordovín, and Cárdenas in the Sierra Demanda mountains. The Tempranillo (35%) comes from the highest area of Samaniego, near the Sierra Cantabria mountains. Old vines at the foot of both mountain ranges provide greater fruit character and concentration. Fermented separately with native yeast, 100% destemmed without crushing, cold fermented with short maceration, then blended and refined in concrete for approximately five months — a winemaking approach that preserves freshness, precision, and the distinct personality of each site.

The nose bridges two landscapes: red and black fruit intertwine, with cherry and blackberry layered with licorice, a faint balsamic nuance, and an intensity of spice. On the palate, it is juicy and poised — generous, full-bodied warmth with tannins sitting between chalky and plush, freshness carrying the wine forward through a lengthy, supple finish. Precise, modern Rioja that shows two mountain landscapes in one gesture. Age 12–15 years.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 — "A total departure from the norm — intensity of spice and a generous mouthfeel of full-bodied warmth while remaining elegant through the lengthy, supple finish. Age 12-15 years."

Vinous 93 — "Bridges two origins. Cherry and blackberry layered with licorice and a faint balsamic nuance. Juicy and poised — a precise, modern Rioja that shows two landscapes in one gesture."

• Producer: Bodegas Gomez Cruzado, Haro, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Blend: 65% Garnacha (Alto Najerilla, Sierra Demanda) / 35% Tempranillo (Samaniego, Sierra Cantabria)
• Vines: Old vines at the foot of two mountain ranges
• Winemaking: Native yeast, 100% destemmed, cold fermentation, short maceration, 5 months in concrete
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cherry, blackberry, licorice, balsamic, spice, chalky-plush tannins, long supple finish
• Style: Full-bodied, precise, modern Rioja
• Drink: Now–2038 (best 2028+)
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, braised short rib, aged Manchego, wild mushroom dishes

Two mountain landscapes, one extraordinary wine — Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto 2023 is modern Rioja at its most compelling.

Winemaker Description

Strikingly rich in color and extract, the 2018 Rubicon is unquestionably a precocious, hedonistic wine. The exotic, well-knit aromas and flavors include ripe cassis, allspice, star anise, vanilla and black licorice. Upon entry, this full-bodied wine envelops the palate with its luxurious concentration and supple, silky tannins, supported by vibrant freshness from the balanced acidity and perfectly-integrated French oak. Very long and expansive in the finish, the 2018 Rubicon will be memorable for decades to come.

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2018

James Suckling 97 Points | Subtle and complex red with blackberry, black truffle, sweet tobacco and mahogany. Highlights of lavender and violets. Full-bodied and very tight with finesse and tension. Very polished, fine tannins. Long finish. Delicious already, but best after 2022.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | The 2018 Rubicon is based on 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Classy notes of crème de cassis, lead pencil shavings, freshly crushed stone, and cedar. Beautifully balanced with gorgeous tannins, integrated acidity, and outstanding length. Give this classic beauty 4–5 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following 15–20.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Alluring aromatically, with restrained yet complex notes of mulberry, loganberry and anise. Refined structure drapes nicely on the finish with a mineral hint. Drink now through 2035.

CK Mondavi Pinot Grigio — California (1.5L Magnum)

CK Mondavi is California’s go-to for approachable, everyday wines that deliver genuine varietal character at an unbeatable price. This 1.5L Magnum — equivalent to two standard bottles — is the perfect format for entertaining, al fresco dining, and any occasion that calls for a generous, crowd-pleasing pour. Light-bodied, crisp, and endlessly refreshing, it is the kind of white wine that earns a permanent spot in the fridge.

The wine opens with inviting aromas of wildflowers, ripe peaches, and pears. On the palate, fresh tropical flavors unfold with a touch of spice, a lively medium body, and a crisp, clean finish. Bright acidity keeps it refreshing from the first sip to the last.

"Aromas of wildflowers, peaches and pears. Fresh, tropical flavors with a touch of spice and a crisp, refreshing finish." — Winemaker Notes

• Producer: CK Mondavi, California
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Pinot Grigio
• Style: Light-bodied, crisp, fruit-forward California Pinot Grigio
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)
• Tasting Notes: Wildflowers, peaches, pears, tropical fruit, touch of spice, crisp finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shrimp, light pasta, fresh salads, soft cheeses, summer appetizers

An everyday California Pinot Grigio in a crowd-pleasing Magnum format — CK Mondavi delivers reliable, fruit-forward character at an exceptional value.

Winemaker Description 

An elegant, fruit forward wine with intense aromas of fresh red fruit. The mouth feel shows a full palate with soft round tannins and a long persistent finish. Certified Sustainability & Vegan.  

Memo Summary Notes

The 2021 Mythic Mountain Malbec is a fruit-forward, approachable red from the Luján de Cuyo region of Mendoza, Argentina.

This wine’s soft tannins and juicy profile make it versatile. It pairs excellently with:

• Grilled Meats: Classic Argentine asado or lamb chops with rosemary.

• Casual Fare: Pepperoni pizza or burgers.

• Cheeses: Aged Gouda or Mimolette.

  
  

   

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Burghound | A much more floral-inflected nose freely offers up its aromas of cool and ripe pear, apple and zest. There is good richness if not quite the same density to the more finely textured middleweight flavors that conclude in a crunchy bitter lemon-tinged finale. Lovely and understated.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Burhound 92-94 Points | An elegant, pure and ultra-fresh nose offers up notes of lilac, rose petal, white peach, tea and citrus zest. There is a markedly more refined mouthfeel to the utterly delicious and highly seductive medium weight flavors that are more precise, all wrapped in a citrusy, impressively persistent and youthfully austere finale. This is very classy and I particularly like the underlying tension and balance that should also permit this beauty to age effortlessly over the next 12 to 15 years. In a word, excellent.

Orin Swift Abstract Blend Grenache, Petite Sirah & Syrah 2023 750ml

Orin Swift is the creation of Dave Phinney — one of California’s most visionary winemakers, who built his reputation making bold, label-forward wines that punch far above their price point. Abstract is his signature red blend: a proprietary mix of Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, and Zinfandel sourced from premier California vineyards and aged seven months in 30% new oak. The label — a swirling abstract painting — is a nod to Phinney’s belief that great wine, like great art, should provoke a reaction. Abstract reliably does exactly that.

The 2023 is a bold, expressive, and deeply satisfying California red — explosive blue fruit aromatics, crystalline acidity, and firm tannins that give it real structure and aging potential. A wine that is equally at home at a dinner party or opened on a Tuesday when only something serious will do.

"Bursts with explosive blue fruit aromatics, layered with violets and sweet baking spice. Medium- to full-bodied, the palate is packed with pure blue fruit, blackberry, and black cherry, all structured around a crystalline acid backbone and firm tannins. The juicy fruit finish lingers, accented by white pepper and pressed floral aromatics — a bold yet balanced expression of Orin Swift’s signature style." — Decanter, 94 pts

• Producer: Orin Swift (Dave Phinney), St. Helena, Napa Valley, California
• Appellation: California
• Blend: Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, Zinfandel
• Vintage: 2023
• Aging: 7 months in 30% new oak
• Tasting Notes: Blue fruit, blackberry, black cherry, violets, baking spice, white pepper, floral aromatics, crystalline acidity, firm tannins, lingering finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, lamb chops, braised short rib, hard aged cheeses, or dark chocolate
• Decanter: 94 | James Suckling: 93

Expert Reviews

Decanter — 94 Points
A proprietary red blend of Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, and Zinfandel, aged seven months in 30% new oak. This blend bursts with explosive blue fruit aromatics, layered with violets and sweet baking spice. Medium- to full-bodied, the palate is packed with pure blue fruit, blackberry, and black cherry, all structured around a crystalline acid backbone and firm tannins. The juicy fruit finish lingers, accented by white pepper and pressed floral aromatics — a bold yet balanced expression of Orin Swift’s signature style.

James Suckling — 93 Points
A deep and full-bodied red that’s powerful in black fruit and laced with fine-grained tannins. Blackberry, dried blueberry, black licorice and black pepper flavors backed by sturdy tannins for a grippy texture. A blend of primarily petite sirah with syrah and grenache. Drink or hold.

Dave Phinney’s most expressive California blend — Abstract 2023 is bold, beautiful, and built to turn heads at any table.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Enthusiast by Tonya Pitts 91 Points | This wine is bright and lively, with aromas of dark berries, malted chocolate, crushed florals and notes of toasted vanilla. Structured with gripping tannins the palate opens with flavors of cranberry-strawberry, black raspberry and dried bay leaf, which evolve into red plum and citrus zest.

Winemaker Description 

The 2022 Matchbook Cabernet Sauvignon is a refined yet approachable expression of the Dunnigan Hills AVA, crafted to showcase ripe, sun-soaked fruit and the region’s signature balance.

Deep dark garnet in the glass, it opens with inviting aromas of plum and black cherry layered with subtle notes of mocha, chocolate and mild cigar box. The palate is soft, supple and immediately welcoming, offering rich flavors of blackberry and boysenberry supported by dusty tannins and well-integrated oak that adds both structure and length.

Hints of anise and warm spice elevate the finish, giving the wine lift and nuance.

Awarded 91 points by Wine Enthusiast, this Cabernet maintains varietal integrity while delivering broad appeal—an easy-drinking, food-friendly red that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty pastas or aged cheeses.

Memo Summary Notes

Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Petit  Sirah

The 2022 Matchbook "Red Gravel" Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout value from the Dunnigan Hills AVA in Yolo County, California. Named after the distinct iron-rich, gravelly soils of the estate, this wine is designed to compete with much pricier Napa Cabs by offering a similar "bold and plush" profile at a fraction of the cost.

Expert Review

93 Points Wine Advocate | The 2020 Meursault Village has turned out beautifully in bottle, unwinding in the glass with scents of crisp Anjou pear, lemon zest, freshly baked bread, blanched almonds, pastry cream and apple blossom. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and layered, its textural attack segues into a fleshy, precise mid-palate that's animated by racy acids, concluding with a long, mouthwatering finish. It's another terrific rendition of this benchmark cuvée.

Expert Review

97 Points Jeb Dunnuck | The 2020 Cornas Chaillot comes from a mix of lieux-dits (it's mostly Chaillot) as well as some younger vines. It's an incredible wine in its own right and certainly doesn't give much in terms quality to its big brother. Awesome aromatics of crème de cassis, violets, crushed stone, and bouquet garni-like notes all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, concentrated mid-palate, and ultra-fine tannins. It's a touch more finesse-driven and elegant compared to the Reynard and should round into form with just 5-7 years of bottle age. This is legit awesome Cornas that will have 20-25 years of ultimate longevity. (2020). 

Boekenhoutskloof · The Chocolate Block · Swartland · Western Cape, South Africa · 2024 · 750ml

Boekenhoutskloof is one of South Africa's most acclaimed estates, and The Chocolate Block is the wine that put Swartland on the world map. Created by winemaker Marc Kent, it is a Syrah-led blend — 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault, and 1% Viognier — sourced from old-vine parcels in the granite-rich soils of the Swartland. The name is no accident: this is a wine built for pleasure, with the kind of dark, brooding generosity that makes it impossible to put down. Over 1.1 million bottles are produced each vintage, yet the quality never wavers. At $37.99, The Chocolate Block remains one of the most compelling values in the New World red wine category.

Deep, inky ruby in the glass with an intense nose of blackberry, bramble, lavender, cacao, and a whisper of cured meat and potting soil — dark, brooding, and utterly compelling. On the palate: medium-to-full bodied with a lush compote of blueberries, ripe plums, black currants, and cherries, framed by cacao-powdery tannins that add texture and complexity. Cumin spice, white pepper, licorice, and hints of garrigue carry through to a velvety, persistent finish. James Suckling awarded 92 points; Wine Advocate 92 points. Drink now through 2030, or cellar for added complexity. Pair with grilled ribeye, lamb chops, braised short ribs, or a serious cheese board.

• Producer: Boekenhoutskloof · Winemaker Marc Kent
• Wine: The Chocolate Block · Swartland
• Vintage: 2024
• Origin: Swartland, Western Cape, South Africa
• Blend: 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault, 1% Viognier
• Style: Full-bodied, structured New World red
• Scores: James Suckling 92 · Wine Advocate 92
• Drinking Window: Now–2030
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, bramble, lavender, cacao, blueberry, ripe plum, black currant, cumin spice, white pepper, licorice, velvety finish
• Pair With: Grilled ribeye · Lamb chops · Braised short ribs · Aged cheese

Old-vine Swartland Syrah, cacao-powdery tannins — South Africa's most beloved red, vintage after vintage.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling — 92 Points
This creamy, medium-bodied red has aromas of dark cherries, blueberries, cracked pepper and thyme. It’s juicy and smoothly integrated with tasty savory undertones to the dark fruit.

Wine Advocate (Robert Parker) — 92 Points
The Boekenhoutskloof 2024 Swartland The Chocolate Block, a blend of 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault and 1% Viognier, may not aim for intellectual nuance, but it more than compensates with pure, comforting charm, like a big, shaggy dog asleep by the fireplace. Medium- to full-bodied, it delivers generous black fruit and bold cherry flavors with a smooth, reassuring texture, offering plenty of pleasure. Conceived by vintner Marc Kent as an accessible, crowd-pleasing expression of Swartland fruit, the wine reflects Boekenhoutskloof’s belief that serious craftsmanship and broad appeal need not be mutually exclusive. Production is substantial, with 3,741 barrels made, translating to just over 1.1 million bottles, making it an ideal choice for a long wooden table at a steakhouse surrounded by friends and shared plates.

Cantine Florio Dry Fine Marsala Superiore — Sicily, Italy (375ml)

Cantine Florio is the most storied name in Marsala — founded in 1833 in the port city of Marsala on Sicily's western coast, and the producer that helped define the category for the world. Their Dry Fine Marsala Superiore Secco is the house's everyday expression: a versatile, beautifully balanced fortified wine made from indigenous Sicilian grapes, amber in color, and crafted to be equally at home as an elegant aperitif or as the essential cooking wine for classic Italian preparations. At 375ml, it is the perfect half-bottle for the kitchen and the table alike.

The nose is warm and inviting: raisins, vanilla, dried apricot, and a subtle nuttiness from the oxidative aging. On the palate, the wine is dry, full-bodied, and harmonious — fervent and structured, with a clean, lingering finish. It is the Marsala of choice for chicken Marsala, veal scaloppine, fish preparations, and poultry dishes, and an elegant aperitif alongside aged cheeses.

"A versatile and ductile Marsala Superiore Secco, suitable for everyday occasions. Amber to light brown, with hints of raisins and vanilla; dry, full, harmonic and fervent. The Marsala of choice for fish, poultry and meat preparation. An elegant aperitif to serve with cheese." — Cantine Florio

• Producer: Cantine Florio, Marsala, Sicily, Italy (est. 1833)
• Style: Marsala Superiore Secco (Dry)
• Appellation: Marsala DOC
• Region: Sicily, Italy
• Varietal: Grillo, Catarratto, Inzolia
• Size: 375ml (half-bottle)
• Best Used For: Chicken Marsala, veal scaloppine, fish & poultry preparations, aperitif with aged cheese

Sicily's most iconic fortified wine from its founding producer — Cantine Florio Dry Marsala is the benchmark for what a classic, versatile Marsala Superiore Secco should taste like.

Winemaker Description

Forbes Magazine | Almost 54 years ago, Robert “Kool” Bell along with his younger brother and childhood friends, started a band. The iconic band Kool & The Gang is now one of the longest non-stop touring bands in industry. An avid lover of Champagne, Kool had always envisioned having his own brand out of Europe. For many years, he sought out Grand Cru Vineyards from owners that have been selling for generations and decided to work with Paul Berthelot, a Multi-Vintage Grand Cru Producer since 1884.

Winemaker Description 

The Estate Pinot Noir is sourced from throughout Shea Vineyard, one of the most iconic vineyards in Oregon. Careful vineyard practices and restrained winemaking allow each vintage to reveal its uniqueness. The 2022 vintage finished warm and dry, allowing the fruit to achieve full ripeness and the Estate to reflect the big, concentrated style Shea Vineyard is known for.

"All Shea wines are 100% estate grown; most are single block/single clone selections. This blends grapes from the entire estate, offering a unique glimpse of the overall terroir. I’ve reviewed wines from this iconic vineyard for over two decades, and followed the estate wines almost since their first vintage. There is a special excellence that carries into Shea designates made by almost any winery. But in wines made by the estate itself there is a focus and specificity that is exceptional. Why this particular piece of land is so special is a question I’ve wondered about for years. The block and clone selections are all complete wines in and of themselves, but this estate blend captures the fullness of the whole site with black fruits, expressive oak (one third new), clean earth, barrel spice and exceptional depth." - 96 points, Paul Gregutt's Northwest Wine Guide

"This wine opens with an alluring bouquet of red and black cherries, Blood orange, walnut shells, and a hint of rosemary. The palate is supple and refined, with a medium body and a lively mouthfeel that keeps it moving and refreshing. As the wine unfolds, a subtle dried herb undertone emerges, adding an extra layer of complexity to the finish." - 94 points, International Wine Report

"Attractive nose with sour cherries, dried orange peel and dried herbs. So delicate and pure, with a medium body and zesty, tangy mouthfeel. It has a fresh, minty undertone at the end." - 93 points, jamessuckling.com

Fabrice Gasnier is one of Chinon's most committed and expressive producers — a devoted practitioner of biodynamic viticulture whose wines are celebrated for their aromatic purity and terroir-driven precision. La Cravantine is his singular sparkling wine: a 100% Cabernet Franc Méthode Traditionnelle rosé from the Loire Valley, bone-dry, intensely fresh and finished with bubbles so fine and persistent they put many Champagnes to shame.

For the 2023 vintage, La Cravantine is released for the first time as a Millésime — a single-vintage bottling rather than the non-vintage blend of previous years. Fermented in bottle on its own residual sugar from the first alcoholic fermentation and aged for at least one year sur lattes, the wine is a pale rosé of remarkable delicacy and structure. Biodynamically farmed Cabernet Franc from Chinon delivers a wine that is simultaneously serious and utterly delicious.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate: "La Cravantine is a pale rosé colored Cabernet Franc sparkling wine with a very delicate mousse. Fermented on the bottle with its own residual sugar from the first alcohol fermentation and after at least one year sur lattes, the wine opens with an intense yet fine and elegant brioche and ripe apple bouquet. On the palate, this is an intense, round and textural, highly delicate fizz with a super elegant and refined mousse and a long, intense and aromatic, sustainably structured finish. A fabulous wine for aperitifs, breakfasts and desserts."

Tasting Notes

Pale rosé in the glass with an exceptionally fine, persistent mousse. The nose is elegant and inviting — brioche, ripe apple, strawberry and white peach, with a clean mineral undercurrent. The palate is bone-dry, round and textural, with a spicy, firm structure and a long, aromatic finish. Fresh, precise and wonderfully versatile.

Food Pairing

Perfect as an aperitif and equally at home with oysters, sushi, grilled fish, fried foods, soft cheeses and light desserts. One of the most food-friendly sparkling wines in the Loire.

Specifications

Grape Variety: Cabernet Franc (100%)
Country: France
Region: Loire Valley
Appellation: Chinon
Style: Sparkling Rosé / Méthode Traditionnelle
Dosage: Brut
Vintage: 2023 (first Millésime release)
Aging: Minimum 1 year sur lattes
Farming: Biodynamic / organic
ABV: ~12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Fabrice Gasnier

Winemaker Description

A blend of 70% Monastrell and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged 24 months French & American oak. The wine exhibits a glass-coating opaque purple color.

The nose is expressive with pain grille, underbrush, brier, minerality, blueberry and blackberry fruit. On the palate is a plush, opulent wine with great density, savory flavors, and a lengthy finish.

Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta — Rioja Gran Reserva 2011

Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta has been crafting wines in Haro, the historic capital of Rioja Alta, since 1895. Their Gran Reserva is the pinnacle of the house — produced only in the finest vintages, when the fruit and conditions align to create something truly exceptional. The 2011 vintage is one such year: a classic Rioja growing season that delivered concentration, structure, and the natural balance required for long aging. A traditional blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo, it was aged for a minimum of 60 months — at least 18 in oak and the remainder in bottle — before release, in the time-honored Gran Reserva tradition.

Deep ruby with garnet edges, the nose is complex and evolved: dried cherry, leather, cedar, tobacco, and earthy minerality layered with notes of vanilla, dark spice, and a whisper of balsamic. On the palate, it is full-bodied and silky with fine, integrated tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, lingering finish of red fruit and warm spice. A wine of sublime delicacy and elegance — exactly as the winemaker intended.

"A classic combination of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo that takes us back to the origins of great Rioja wines. Produced only in the finest vintages, which allow us to bottle exceptional wines. The sublime fusion of delicacy and elegance. Time stands still, enabling us to continue savoring the future." — Martinez Lacuesta Winemaker

• Producer: Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta, Haro, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Founded: 1895
• Vintage: 2011
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Varietals: Tempranillo, Graciano & Mazuelo
• Classification: Gran Reserva
• Aging: Minimum 60 months (18+ months oak, remainder in bottle)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dried cherry, leather, cedar, tobacco, vanilla, dark spice, balsamic, silky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2035+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, aged Manchego, braised short ribs, wild mushroom dishes, charcuterie, grilled ribeye
• Serve: 62–66°F, decant 45–60 minutes

Produced only in the finest vintages — Martinez Lacuesta Gran Reserva 2011 is a rare opportunity to drink classic Rioja at the peak of its evolution.

Winemaker Description

The Extra Brut Solessence Nature unwinds in the glass with scents of white flowers, crisp green apple, spring blossom and almond paste. Medium to full-bodied, ample and precise, it's a bright, vibrant wine with chalky structure and a long, saline finish.

Bright, zesty, and built for sharing — Frontera's Sauvignon Blanc in Magnum form is a crowd-pleaser that punches well above its price. The nose is instantly inviting: fresh lime, Granny Smith apple, and a hint of elderflower. On the palate it's tangy and vibrant, with grapefruit, damp herbs, and a clean saline finish that keeps things lively. At just 12% alcohol it's light enough to drink freely without losing any of the personality that earned it 92 points from the Toronto Star. The 1.5L Magnum makes it the obvious call for a table of friends, a backyard gathering, or anywhere you'd rather open one big bottle than two small ones.

• Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
• Region: Chile
• Format: 1.5L Magnum
• Alcohol: 12%
• Closure: Screw cap

Food Pairing

Tacos, goat cheese salad, grilled fish, steamed asparagus, or anything finished with a squeeze of lime. Serve well chilled.

Critical Acclaim

92 pts — Toronto Star: "Each fragrant sip starts with bright lime and freshly sliced Granny Smith on the nose before beaming in with a tangy attack of lime, elderflower, grapefruit and damp herbs before tapering to a final sifting of salt. This dry thriller… is an easy win."

Winemaker Description

Rich with tropical and pear fruit, displaying an outstanding, creamy core of elegance. Winemaker Phillip Titus combines the finesse of great Burgundy, with the ripe fruit of Sonoma county. Fantastic! 

Try with Halibut, Swordfish & Tuna.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2023 Sonoma Loeb "Dignitary" Chardonnay is a significant release in the kosher wine world. It marks a "new kosher run" for the esteemed Sonoma-Loeb winery, bringing their high-end Sonoma County.

 It is specifically crafted for those who want a premium, buttery California Chardonnay.

Yarden Katzrin Chardonnay — Golan Heights, Israel 2022

Golan Heights Winery is Israel’s most acclaimed producer, and their Yarden Katzrin Chardonnay is the flagship white of the lineup — a single-vineyard, full-bodied Chardonnay produced exclusively from the winery’s finest Chardonnay plots in the northern Golan Heights. Grown at high altitude on sustainably certified volcanic basalt soils, the 2022 is aged in French oak to build complexity and texture while preserving the site’s natural minerality and freshness. It is Kosher certified, with the depth and structure to rival serious Burgundian Chardonnay at its price point.

The nose is rich and aromatic: ripe lemon, poached pear, and tropical fruit, with toasted baguette, French oak, and a distinctive mineral undercurrent. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, elegant, and polished — generous fruit and creamy oak seamlessly integrated, with a long, refined finish. It is approachable now with food, and built to develop further with a few years of cellaring.

“Katzrin Chardonnay presents aromatic characteristics of ripe lemons, pears and tropical fruits, alongside hints of minerality, toasted baguette and French oak. A full-bodied Chardonnay, rich in flavors, elegant and pleasant to drink.” — Golan Heights Winery

• Producer: Golan Heights Winery (Yarden label), Katzrin, Golan Heights, Israel
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Galilee — Golan Heights, Israel
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Aging: French oak
• Certification: Kosher | Sustainably Farmed
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe lemon, poached pear, tropical fruit, toasted baguette, French oak, minerality
• Best Paired With: Halibut with lemon butter, smoked duck, wild mushroom risotto, roasted chicken, aged cheeses

Israel’s benchmark Kosher Chardonnay — Yarden Katzrin delivers single-vineyard Golan Heights character, French oak complexity, and genuine aging potential in every bottle.

Winemaker Description 

Pale gold in colour. Rich with complex, sweet flavour, Dereszla's Tokaji Aszu shows vibrant aromas of caramel and floral notes.

The palate is smooth with intense honey, nuts, apricots, marmalade, mango and papaya flavours leading into a perfectly balanced, spicy finish. Pair it with blue cheese drizzled with honey and topped with walnuts.

Winemaker Description

Teran is a Croatian speciality; the grape produces wines with an abundance of acidity and tannins. Kozlovic sun-dries a portion of his Teran grapes on hay (thereby reducing their acidity) after making several passes through the vineyard. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel and aged in large oak barrels for 12 months. The resulting wine has an exquisite texture and mouthfeel.

Flavors of black tea, sour cherry and balsamic drift across the palate as they intermingle with black fruits that dominate the lively and long finish. Enjoy this wine with meatballs in sauce, meat lasagna, rabbit and hearty stews. Winemaker Description. 

92 James Suckling — Aromas of key lime pie, lemon confit and passion fruit on the nose. The palate is light- to medium-bodied with fresh acidity and a creamy mouthfeel, giving notes of lychees, red apples and flint. Nicely constructed and textural. (Vintage 2023). 

90 Vinous — Far from your stereotypical Marlborough style. This wine plays on its clarity, texture and freshness. Aromatically subtle, with green notes meeting nectarine and blackcurrant. While the region's natural freshness abounds, the wine retains a round shape and natural curve before being sewn up by a thread of acidity. Layers of interest that will keep you coming back. (Vintage 2023). 

A truly thoughtful and classy expression of Sauvignon Blanc. The nose exudes vibrancy, showing lifted notes of white passionfruit and lemon balm, supported by a savoury, leafy edge contributed by the inclusion of Sémillon. The palate is layered and textural, balanced by a slate-like mineral acidity. Fermented with native yeasts and aged on lees in oak barrels — a sophisticated, terroir-driven Sauvignon Blanc that transcends the category.

• Certified organic and biodynamically grown
• Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
• No dairy products or eggs used during production

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling - 94 Points: "Abundant black-fruit aromas supported by spices, cedar, crushed stones and violets. The medium-bodied palate has a creamy texture and finely tuned, generous tannins with so much purity of fruit. Grown further away from the ocean with a more continental feel. Delicious and early-drinking yet serious. Drink or hold. Screw cap."

Wine Enthusiast - 92 Points: "An excellent intro to this famed Western Australian Cab style, this vintage is, compared to the previous two, on the richer, denser side. Supple dark berry fruit with salt-flecked herbs, seaweed savoriness and a dark chocolate underbelly are woven with powdery, chiseled tannins and tangy blackcurrant acidity. Drink now with plenty of protein or age for several more years."

Wine Spectator - 91 Points: "A generous mix of kirsch, cassis and blackberry flavors is dense and dark, accented by notes of palo santo, tobacco and cardamom. The tannins are dense, and a grace note of malty Assam black tea lingers on the finish, with plenty of harmony and firming tannins. Drink now through 2032."  - MaryAnn Worobiec,

Winemaker Notes

'Son of' the Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon. It carries the structure, power and tannins of classic Cabernet in an earlier drinking, more forward style from fruit sourced from each of the Vasse Felix vineyards.

A remarkably ripe and soft wine. A deep perfume with blackcurrant, blueberry and coffee mocha complexities. Notes of dusty earth and woody perennial herbs mingle with hints of nori, dried forest leaves and wild mushrooms to create an inviting aroma. A light fragrant entrance with blackcurrant, raspberry and potpourri builds to earthy complexities and fine dry dusty tannins which serve to frame the fruit. A comfortable, soft, juicy body and tannin profile finishes the wine fresh and long.