Products

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

Winemaker Description

Compelling and fresh, this wine is redolent of grapefruit and red berries

One would be hard-pressed to find anyone as devoted to the concepts of ‘sustainable’ and ‘local’ as Thierry and Céline Tissot. Their vision is of a sustainable ecological future with a thriving local economy to pass on to their two children. All one has to do is admire the privileged vineyards the Tissots farm along the steep mountainsides surrounding their village of Vaux-en-Bugey. Here, Thierry has committed to replanting with traditional local varieties, namely altesse and mondeuse.

Meanwhile, Céline has implemented her experience as an agriculture engineer and enologist, employing strictly sustainable agriculture, with a particular focus on insect diversity. Their efforts earned organic certification in 2019. Their vineyards are surrounded by sub-alpine forests brimming with  biodiversity—birds’ nests, foxes, ladybugs, spiders—which Céline loves to share on social media as they work the vines with their dog Maya. The Tissot vineyards had never seen any herbicides, having been abandoned to the forest before the introduction of chemical treatments. The couple have steadfastly carried on this legacy with respect and dedication to their principles.

This méthode traditionelle sparkling wine is made with organically-farmed, estate gamay and mondeuse. As an Extra-Dry, it has an exceptional balance that will play well at the beginning and end of the meal (or throughout your picnic!). Céline and Thierry Tissot are showing that top quality méthode traditionelle sparklers can be made in Bugey, transmitting a clear and unique Bugey identity. The Tissots have been pushing the envelope with the development of their traditional method sparkling wines with a long lees-aging regimen.

Producer Description 

The Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey 2023 release is a continuation of a revered tradition in the world of fine spirits. As a part of the esteemed Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, this whiskey pays homage to Thomas H. Handy, an influential figure in New Orleans' cocktail history, known for popularizing the Sazerac cocktail. 

Expert Review

F. Paul Pacult's Spirit Journal rating: 5 Stars/Highest Recommendation - "Extraordinary whiskey by any measure." - F. Paul Pacult

Sweet baby Jesus what is this? An extraordinary aromatic nose. The alcohol will sear your taste buds so add some ice. Spicy. Wild at heart – David Broom

Producer Description 

The 2024 Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey from Buffalo Trace Distillery continues the legacy of unfiltered, barrel-proof rye whiskey. Aged over six years and bottled at a bold 127.2 proof, this release builds on the historic recipe inspired by Thomas H. Handy, the bartender credited with popularizing rye whiskey in the original Sazerac cocktail.

Hand-bottled without dilution, it captures the raw essence of the rye, honoring traditional methods dating back over a century. Last year’s expression earned a prestigious Double Gold at the 2024 Singapore World Spirits Competition, reinforcing its reputation as a world-class rye.

Winemaker Description

This medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has vibrant notes of blackberry fruit, hints of vanilla and oak, and a lingering finish.

Winemaker Description 

This clean Chardonnay is accentuated by fruit-forward aromas of apple, pineapple and melon, ending with a smooth, slightly buttery finish. Pair this crisp Chardonnay with herbed pork loin or pasta with your favorite cream sauce. 

Winemaker Description 

This light-bodied, refreshing Pinot Grigio Colombard has crisp acidity with bright citrus notes with hints of pineapple and pear. Pair with grilled chicken or fresh seafood. 

Winemaker Description 

Fragrant aromas of fresh red fruits, herbs and an elegant vegetal character. Crisp acidity balances the richness of the body. The aftertaste is complex and long.

Producer Description 

Tia Maria is a sweet liqueur with a strong coffee character and a complex aromatic structure.

By using cold brew extraction, we can always ensure that our coffee liqueur has a distinct taste thanks to three significant elements: coffee 100% arabica provides the distinctive roasted, full-bodied rich taste, vanilla responsible for the soft and velvety back notes and Jamaican Rum that gives Tia Maria is body, depth and structure.

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Tiamo is a line of wines, made with organic grapes, that represent top quality wines from the best growers in their respective regions.

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Winemaker Description 

Straw yellow in color with lemon reflexes, this Pinot Grigio is youthful and lively. In the nose this wine has aromas of citrus, white blossoms, pears, apples and meadow grass.

There is a fresh, crisp minerality and a clear finish.

\Wonderful as an aperitif as well as a wine that pairs well with butter-poached fish, scampi's, and pasta dishes such as pasta primavera.

Winemaker Description

2017 Timeless Napa Valley is a harmonious wine that deftly balances elegant integration of both high acidity and supple fruit to create a wine with ageworthy structure and character. Notes of pomegranate and cherry on the nose are met by subtle aromas of wisteria, licorice and mint. Carried by essences of rose, plum and tart red fruit, a mouthwatering ripple of bright acidity meets delicate tannins and balancing, savory flavors of minty balsam, cozy mulling spices and stewed black fruits on the palate. 

Expert Review 

James Suckling 90 Points | This is the prototypical fino sherry with all the salty and yeasty character you expect. Also dried-apple, pear and lemon-zest character. Generous, but very dry and salty on the palate with a refreshing touch of austerity. Where are the olives? Drink now, if possible from a freshly opened bottle.

Winemaker Description 

Pale yellow with golden glints. Slightly cloudy as it contains flor in suspension, reflecting it’s having been bottled ‘En Rama’. Complex aromas of almonds, lemon and floral notes combined with sea spray and minerals. 

The palate is concentrated and sightly creamy with a salty tang and impressive depth of flavour boasting toasted almonds, apple skins and bready undertones. The finish is rounded and alluring, clearly harking back to its origins in the albariza soil yet also reflecting the Significance of its biological ageing. This wine is the purest definition of the vines and the winery. 

Our Notes

Oscar, 67 Wine Buyer, writes:  In 2015, I was one of only three invitees from the United States selected to participate in the prestigious Gonzalez Byass Tio Pepe Sherry Master program. This incredible experience allowed me to earn certification as a Sherry Master through their renowned education program. To this day, it remains one of the highlights of my professional wine career.

I was captivated by the vineyards, the historic Sherry bodegas, and the wealth of knowledge I gained under the guidance of the legendary Antonio Flores, Master Blender at Bodegas Gonzalez Byass.

Fast forward to 2025, and I am thrilled to invite all wine aficionados to explore our newly revamped Sherry selection at the shop. We have curated an extensive collection of over 100 selections ranging from delightfully crisp, saline-driven Finos and Manzanillas to complex and rare Amontillados, Olorosos, and Palo Cortados. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming Sherry tastings and other exciting events celebrating the magic of El Marco de Jerez.

Today, I'm especially delighted to feature one of my favorite Finos, typically available only in the spring: Ti­o Pepe Fino en Rama Saca 2023. Bottled in the spring of 2023, this en rama Fino undergoes minimal filtration and remains unfined, preserving its raw, expressive character. Hand-selected by Antonio Flores, this release showcases a vintage label from the Gonzalez Byass archives, making it a collector's item.

The wine itself is bursting with aromas and flavors of green olives, citrus, saline notes, and delicate yeasty nuances. Bone dry and intensely flavorful, it pairs beautifully with cured meats, cheeses, and grilled skewers of shrimp and calamari.

Winemaker Description 

Tio Pepe Fino Sherry is a star bright, pale golden color. It is elegant and distinctive, with fresh bread and almond aromas. The palate is full bodied, crisp and very dry, with a complex, long finish.

Perfect with canapes and tapas, Asian food, seafood and all fish based dishes. Try it with caviar, oysters, anchovies or tuna carpaccio. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review 

James Suckling 90 Points | This is the prototypical fino sherry with all the salty and yeasty character you expect. Also dried-apple, pear and lemon-zest character. Generous, but very dry and salty on the palate with a refreshing touch of austerity. Where are the olives? Drink now, if possible from a freshly opened bottle. 

Winemaker Description 

Tio Pepe is pale golden yellow in color with a very unique nose of elegant aromas of yeast and toasted almonds. On the palate it is bone dry with flavors of almonds and a slight saltiness on the finish. Surprisingly fresh after 4 years of ageing. Serve very chilled. Perfect as an aperitif with olives, almonds and Spanish jamon however also ideal for dishes such as seafood and fish.

Expert Review

90 Points James Suckling | This is the prototypical fino sherry with all the salty and yeasty character you expect. Also dried-apple, pear and lemon-zest character. Generous, but very dry and salty on the palate with a refreshing touch of austerity. Where are the olives? Drink now, if possible from a freshly opened bottle.

Winemaker Description 

The wine is showing light legs, an intense and powerful nose which reminds us of the veil of the flor, chalk, dried fruits as well as citric, salty and mineral notes.

On the palate, the wine is fresh, salty and tasty. The finish is persistent and balanced, reminding us of salt, hazelnuts, yeast and green olives, with a dry and slightly bitter aftertaste.

The Macharnudo and Carrascal pagos express the best of our soils in this intense, salty and flavour some Fino.The Solera, with over 6 years of biological ageing, is made up of a total of 139 casks, from which number 79, 95 and 96 were selected, all found on the second floor of the Gran Bodega Tio Pepe.

Memo Summary Notes

That's a very specific and excellent sherry! The Tio Pepe Una Palma Fino Saca 2021 is part of a special, limited-edition collection of Fino and Amontillado sherries from González Byass in Jerez.

Here is a summary of the details for this particular release:

🌟 Key Characteristics
* Type: Fino Sherry
* Producer: González Byass (Tío Pepe)
* Origin: D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry, Spain
* Grape: 100% Palomino Fino
* Ageing: Approximately 6 years under a dense layer of flor (a veil of yeast) through the traditional Solera system.
* Saca (Bottling Release): 2021 (Bottled in October 2021)
* Style: "Una Palma" (One Palm) indicates it's the youngest and freshest in the "Las Palmas" series, but still an older and more intense Fino than the standard Tio Pepe. It is typically bottled "en rama" (unfiltered or lightly filtered) to retain maximum flavor and character.
* Bottle Size: 500ml (50cl)

* The Saca 2021 is celebrated for its concentration, intensity, and purity of the flor character:
    * Appearance: Pale yellow to bright golden color.
    * Nose: Intense and powerful, dominated by yeasty notes from the flor (like fresh  bread or brioche), combined with aromas of almonds/nuts, chalk/talc, seaweed/brine, and sometimes a hint of bruised or green apple.
    * Palate: Bone-dry, full-bodied, fresh, and intensely salty (saline) and savory. It offers flavors of green olives, hazelnuts, and a persistent, slightly bitter, yet balanced finish.
    * Overall: It is an intense, concentrated, and very dry sherry that beautifully captures the essence of prolonged biological aging.
* 🍽️ Pairing
This Fino is an ideal aperitif and pairs wonderfully with:
    * Traditional Spanish Tapas: Almonds, olives, Jamón Ibérico.
    * Seafood: Anchovies, sushi, sashimi, smoked fish.
    * Complex Dishes: Artichokes, asparagus, and Asian cuisine, which can be difficult to pair with other wines.

Winemaker Notes

The wonderful aromas of the Sauvignon Blanc grapes are thanks to the fertile slopes of Zichron Ya'akov. Upon tasting this wine, one experiences a rich, delicate sensation, herbaceous fragrances and fruity flavors.

Producer Description

Tito's Handmade Vodka is produced in Austin at Texas' first and oldest legal distillery.

It's made in small batches in an old fashioned pot still by Tito Beveridge (actual name), a 45-year-old Geologist, and distilled six times. Tito's Handmade Vodka is designed to be savored by spirit connoisseurs. It is micro-distilled in an old-fashioned pot still, just like fine single malt scotches and high-end French cognacs. 

This time-honored method of distillation requires more skill and effort than modern column stills, but it's well worth it. Our handcrafted technique offers more control over the distillation process, resulting in a spectacularly clean product of incomparable excellence. Only the heart of the run, "the nectar" is taken. The vodka is cleansed of phenols, esters, congenersand organic acids by filtering it through the finest activated carbon available. Critics call Tito's "a homegrown symphonic spirt to applaud!" and say "it can go head to head with any of the worlds' greats and not break a sweat."

Tito's Handmade Vodka won the prestigious Double Gold Medal having prevailed over 70 of the world's best premium vodkas, as the judges' unanimous Gold Medal choice, at The World Spirits Competition in San Francisco California.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast 92 points | The initial nosing passes find subtle traces of charcoal and roasted grain which are followed by sweeter aromas of sweet grain mash and pipe tobacco. Entry is smoky and charred; the midpalate is oily, moderately viscous, semisweet and robust. Ends on a delicious oily, bacon-like notes.

Producer Description

Tito's Handmade Vodka is produced in Austin at Texas' first and oldest legal distillery.

It's made in small batches in an old fashioned pot still by Tito Beveridge (actual name), a 45-year-old Geologist, and distilled six times. Tito's Handmade Vodka is designed to be savored by spirit connoisseurs. It is micro-distilled in an old-fashioned pot still, just like fine single malt scotches and high-end French cognacs. 

This time-honored method of distillation requires more skill and effort than modern column stills, but it's well worth it. Our handcrafted technique offers more control over the distillation process, resulting in a spectacularly clean product of incomparable excellence. Only the heart of the run, "the nectar" is taken. The vodka is cleansed of phenols, esters, congenersand organic acids by filtering it through the finest activated carbon available. Critics call Tito's "a homegrown symphonic spirt to applaud!" and say "it can go head to head with any of the worlds' greats and not break a sweat."

Tito's Handmade Vodka won the prestigious Double Gold Medal having prevailed over 70 of the world's best premium vodkas, as the judges' unanimous Gold Medal choice, at The World Spirits Competition in San Francisco California.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast 92 points |  The initial nosing passes find subtle traces of charcoal and roasted grain which are followed by sweeter aromas of sweet grain mash and pipe tobacco. Entry is smoky and charred; the midpalate is oily, moderately viscous, semisweet and robust. Ends on a delicious oily, bacon-like notes.

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

This wine is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot, 10% Merlot, 4%
Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec. The grapes originated from Tokara vineyards on the
slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch

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This wine displays a pale straw colour with brilliant green edge. On the nose the wine
opens with crisp green apple and lime blossom. This evolves to incorporate a complex
melange of lemongrass, petrichor and subtle blackcurrant leaf. The palate is bright
and refreshing with a focussed tension that suggests longevity and a characteristic
oyster shell salinity.

Food pairing: Best served cold and drunk as an aperitif or with fresh summer oysters,
fresh grilled yellowtail with salsa verde or salmon roses with kewpie mayo and caviar.

Matured exclusively in hand selected American oak ex-bourbon barrels.

Tomintoul 10 Years Old is a delicate well-balanced single malt.Gentle and smooth with a medium body, Tomintoul 10 Year Old is a lovely expression from Speyside, Scotland.

This has some barley, sugar, vanilla, malt and coffee on the nose with a hint of oak. The palate is made up of toasted cereal, honey, barley sugar, malt and some sweet vanilla.

A fan favourite in the Tomintoul range, our 10 Years Old has been awarded gold medals for its taste by  some of the most prestigious spirits competitions in the world

Winery Notes

TOP DOGS Wines - Supporting Animal Rescue

Jacques Azoulay has spent his life surrounded by dogs, many of them rescues. Over time, he became acutely aware of the widespread issues of animal cruelty, abandonment, and the staggering number of dogs euthanized each year in the U.S. "Visiting a shelter breaks your heart - you just want to take them all home," he says.

The cause is noble, but the wines have to live up to the mission - and they do. Behind each of our 100% French wines is a dedication to quality and taste.

The Red: A rich and velvety Bordeaux, with Merlot dominance - perfect for any occasion.

Winemaker Description 

Smoky and with clear hints of dried fruits, Torelló 225 Brut Nature is in top form. The base wine of Xarel·lo, the majority in the blend, was fermented in 225-liter barrels and, together with the rest of the wines (Macabeo and Parellada), aged for 3-4 months in 2900-liter foudres. Its passage through wood and its long aging in the bottle with the lees explain its complexity and its charming touch. 

A bold and structured red with hints of ripe cherries and Mediterranean herbs. Organic elegance at a remarkable value.

A vibrant and elegant red from Puglia, Italy, this organic wine showcases the region’s signature Nero di Troia grape. On the nose, it offers aromas of dark cherry, plum, and subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs. The palate is structured yet approachable, with soft tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors of ripe red fruit, cocoa, and a touch of minerality. Perfect with roasted meats, hearty pasta dishes, or aged cheeses, this wine embodies the rich terroir of southern Italy while remaining fresh and expressive.

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Organically farmed pinot noir grapes from our home ranch, Redwood Valley Vineyards, were hand-harvested in mid September. The bunches were carefully destemmed into a stainless steel tank for fermentation. The mixture of skins, seed , and juice were cold soaked for 24-48 hours to begin flavor extraction. After a CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) approved yeast was added, the must was mixed two times per day to continue extracting color and tannin. 

These pump-overs are critical to enhancing the aroma and flavor from the pinot noir grape. Once fermentation is complete, the must was delicately pressed and aged on French oak for 8 months.

This medium garnet-colored wine presents enticing aromas of dried cranberry, sweet rhubarb, and subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. On the palate, flavors of delicate caramel, bright red cherries, and a touch of licorice meld seamlessly with soft tannins and a smooth texture, achieving a harmonious balance of fruit and oak.

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

Our Zinfandel has a deep color and rich, spicy aromas of wild dark berries and plums, It is round, rich and bursting with flavor. The Petit Syrah and Tannat grapes add a delightful complexity to the final blend.