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Winemaker Notes

Winemaker Description 

Expert Reviews 

Antonio Galloni of Vinous writes 90 Points | The 2022 Chianti Classico Pèppoli, the entry-level offering from Antinori, is a fine introduction to the year that shows just how compelling this vintage can be. Bright, floral and beautifully lifted, the 2022 is all class. The understated, refreshing style is so compelling.  Drinking 2024 - 2030. 

Michaela Morris of Decanter writes 90 Points | This is surely Antinori’s highest volume Chianti Classico with almost one million bottles produced - that’s over 2.5% of the region’s annual production. Gracious and familiar, Pèppoli is like a cheerful postcard from the Chianti hills. It charms with glossy cherry, cinnamon and chopped basil. Accents of leather and smoky toast are properly demure. On the palate, fruit is at the fore: plump plum and blackberry compote meld effortlessly with light, smooth tannins that give just the slightest dusty tug. Finishes juicy.  Drinking 2024 - 2027. 

Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck writes 90 Points | The 2022 Chianti Classico Peppoli is a youthful ruby magenta, and is highly expressive with lively aromas of grenadine, tangerine, fresh flowers, and fresh oregano. This carries seamlessly to the palate keeping all the buoyant vibrancy and fruit through a well-balanced and polished finish. It has fine tannins, and a flourish of toasted smoke cedar spice, with notes of dusty earth and a bit of iron rich gamy feel. Clean and balanced this is an excellent value to drink 2025-2032. 

Monica Lerner of the Wine Advocate writes |  This wine is like that adoring pesky little sibling who always manages to offer levity and good cheer. The Marchesi Antinori 2022 Chianti Classico Pèppoli offers an evergreen taste profile that features Sangiovese under an almost Pinot Noir-like spotlight. The wine is bright and pretty with Rainier cherry, orange peel, violet and earth. If you really want to push those buttons, you could interpret Pèppoli as the equivalent of a Langhe Nebbiolo or a good Valpolicella. 

Critic Notes

Antonio Galloni writes:  The 2021 Villa Antinori is a blend from various appellations within Tuscany. It offers good depth in a medium-bodied, approachable style meant for near-term drinking. In this context, it suffered from frost issues in the Merlot and the exceptional quality of the Sangiovese-based wines. Production was down nearly 50%.  Drinking 2024 to 2031.

Bruce Sanderson writes:  Cherry, pomegranate and plum aromas and flavors are the main themes in this dense red, punctuated with loam, spice, mineral and wild rosemary notes. Harmonious and solidly built, this picks up steam through the long, fruit- and savory-infused aftertaste. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.  - Wine Spectator 92

Winemaker Description:

Villa Antinori 2021 is ruby red in color. The nose is intense, intriguing and presents fruity notes of black cherries and plum jam together with hints of boxwood, tobacco, and vanilla. The palate is mouth filling with supple, velvety tannins sustained by outstanding freshness and pleasant sapidity. —winemaker

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020 

94 Points James Suckling | Gorgeous floral character to the crushed stone and purple fruit. Lavender and sage, too. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and a savory yet crunchy finish. Dark mushroom and fresh earth. Super length and brightness for this wine.

92 Points Wine Enthusiast | Aromas of cassis, dark chocolate and leather set the stage for blackberry, cocoa powder, caramel, violet, orange zest and sage leaf flavors. Plush tannins coat the tongue and gums and drift off into a milk chocolate and cherry finish. This fresh wine from Toro is a nice example of a Tinta de Toro, the local name for Tempranillo, that does not break the bank.

91 Points Wine Spectator, Alison Napjus writes: Ripe and fruit-forward on the nose, though more restrained on the palate, this red offers flavors of blackberry paste, dried blueberry and cranberry fruit woven through dried sage, marjoram, warmed spices and cocoa powder, backed by rich notes of fresh earth and iron. There's a creamy nappe to the texture, while fine tannins firm up the supple finish.

90 Points Robert Parker | The 2020 Termes, the entry-level red, has 15.65% alcohol and a pH of 3.9 with 4.2 grams of acidity. The grapes from their younger vines, which have higher yields and keep more acidity, fermented with selected yeasts and 20 days of maceration and matured in 225- and 400-liter French oak barrels, 20% of them new, for 14 months with rackings every four months. It's creamy and spicy, round and soft, with fine-grained tannins and integrated oak (nearly 50% of the élevage was in 400-liter oak barrels), and it's rich but with the alcohol nicely integrated. This has a more commercial profile, more approachable than its siblings.

91 Vinous, Joaquin Hidalgo writes:  The 2020 Termes, aged 14 months in French oak (20% new, half 400 liters). A dark garnet red in hue. The nose features violets and cherry notes along with a cedar undertone layer. Rich and taut on the palate, the tannins are softened by the calibrated acidity, releasing the sun's energy into a lasting, flavorful finish. The 2020 is a mellow Toro.  Drinking 2025 to 2045.  - Vinous 91

Winemaker Notes

Termes is the vibrant expression of Toro, a symbol of its youthful spirit. It stands out from what Toro wines used to be, for its vigor, freshness and vivacity. Powerful yet balanced, vibrant yet complex, it is perfect to drink young.

Our Professional Review 

Debra of 67Wine.com writes | This fleshy medium bodied wine offers plentiful flavors of tropical fruit, baking spice, and zest, with an underlying subtle oak influence. Cambria Chardonnay Katherine's Vineyard is harmoniously balanced with ample acidity and a buttery, creamy mouth coating finish. 
- Debra, California Chardonnay Buyer 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

Antonio Galloni writes:  The 2021 Chardonnay Katherine's Vineyard Signature Collection is bright and super-focused. Citrus peel, mint, white flowers and tangerine peel all grace this exquisite, intense wine. The 2021 was fermented in tank and aged in barrel, of which 50% new. The Katherine's Vineyard comes from own-rooted vines planted in the 1970s. Readers should plan on giving this a bit of time, as it is quite nervous today. - Vinous 95

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  Beautiful orchard fruits, toasted bread, and some sappy flower notes all emerge from the 2021 Chardonnay Katherine's Vineyard, a medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, elegant wine that has nicely integrated acidity as well as a supple, up-front, delicious style. - Jeb Dunnuck 91

Alder Yarrow writes:  Smells of lemon curd and butterscotch. Flavours of lemon curd and white flowers have a nice mineral undertone and lemon-pith chalkiness. Excellent acidity with just a whiff of vanilla in the finish.  - Jancis Robinson 16.5

MaryAnn Worobiec writes:  Remarkably balanced, with details of fresh, crisp apple, citrus and pear that mingle with salted butter pastry and touches of brown sugar on a supple, creamy frame. Reveals a touch of lemongrass on the finish. Drink now. - Wine Spectator 90

 

Winemaker Description 

The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

Bruce Sanderson writes:  A racy version, this boasts black cherry, blueberry, violet and iron flavors. Features a firm line of tannins that work in concert with the acidity, while flashes of Mediterranean scrub peek through. Mouthwatering finish. Sangiovese and Merlot. Drink now through 2032.   - Wine Spectator 92

Audrey Frick writes:  A bright ruby color, the 2021 Chianti Classico is expressive on opening with aromas of grenadine, candied red flowers, orange peel, and wet stones. Medium-bodied, it’s linear and graceful, with fresh acidity, fine tannins, and a clean finish. A very charming wine, it’s prime for drinking over the next few years.  Drinking 2024 to 2027.  - Jeb Dunnuck 90

Walter Speller writes:  Just mid ruby. Attractive raspberry and cherry nose and supple, tangy cherry fruit with gripping but not harsh tannins. Long and elegant.  Drinking 2023 to 2028.  - Jancis Robinson 16.5

 

Winemaker Description

Bright and pale gold colored wine. Savory nose of blossom, of exotic fruits and white fleshed fruits. The first impression in the mouth comes from the round and rich palate. Then the citrus brings some freshness which make a quite unique balance.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | A ripe wine, this has tropical fruits freshened with kiwi. It is smooth and spicy, with plenty of perfumed richness at the end. (2022). 

Yohan Castaing writes:  Aromas of pear, peach and smoke preface the 2022 Blanc from Château Thieuley. This is a medium-bodied, juicy, tense wine with a pure and fresh finish. It is a blend of 45% Sauvignon Blanc, 12% Sauvignon Gris, 40% Sémillon and, for the first year, 3% Colombard.  Drinking 2023 to 2028.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

James Suckling writes:  Lemongrass, guava and chopped herbs on the nose. Crunchy and fresh with a medium body and green-fruited finish. Sauvignon blanc and semillon. Drink now.  - James Suckling

Winemaker Description 

Expert Reviews

Erin Brooks writes: The 2022 Discovery Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, 9% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc sourced from across the Paso Robles region. Matured for 10 months in 50% new French oak, it has ripe aromas of dried plums with wafts of sweet spice, tobacco and mushrooms. The medium-bodied palate is surprisingly light on its feet with gently chewy tannins, just enough fresh acidity and an oak spice-laced finish. It's easy to drink and should be a crowd-pleaser. - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

Eric Guido writes:  The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is impossible to ignore. Violet pastille and sweet spice complement a burst of crushed blackberries and cherries. Silken and seamless, it swirls across the palate with an energetic mix of ripe wild berries and citrus, all motivated by a core of vibrant acidity. While gently tannic, the 2022 remains fresh and lively throughout, leaving a tart blackberry tinge that carries on.  - Vinous 91

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com | Dog Point Vineyard is the largest certified organic wine estate in New Zealand.  This  Sauvignon Blanc is bright and delicious, with fresh lively flavors in a refreshing, easy sipping style. In the glass, key lime, granny smith apple, kiwi and white peach flavors grace the palate playfully with perfectly balanced acidity offering lift and a pleasant zip to the finish. Crisp and very pleasant, perfect for seafood and salads.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023 

Rebecca Gibb MW writes:  Initially the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc needs a few moments to get itself together – much like we all do after waking up from our slumber. It wears a rather reductive overcoat, but under that flintiness you find concentrated, pure fruit flavors. It’s light in body but dense in concentration thanks to low yields, displaying both focus and punch. It's almost silvery in color and restrained thanks to hand-picking, leading to pure grapefruit and passion fruit flavors alongside a hint of nectarine. The finish is long, precise and sinewy.  Drinking 2024 - 2028.  - Vinous 93

James Suckling writes:  Clean and crisp with grapefruit, green melon and lemon character. Hints of stones. Medium body. Lovely acidity and a delicious finish. Some phenolic tension here. From organically grown grapes. Drink now. Screw cap.  - James Suckling 92

Jancis Robinson writes:  From the tricky, cloudy, cyclone-affected vintage 2023 when I was in New Zealand.  Sourced from eight of their own vineyards with the Wairau Valley.  Smoky, green-veg nose. Just a little less exuberantly fruity than some other vintages. The wine finishes a little more suddenly than I would have expected but it's a creditable effort in a challenging year.

MaryAnn Worobiec writes:  Lush and expressive, with plenty of concentration to the mix of mango, lemon curd and litsea oil flavors. Details of dried pineapple, candied ginger and crystalized orange zest add complexity and aromatics on the long finish. Drink now.  - Wine Spectator 94

Winemaker Description 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

Lettie Teague writes:  This terrifically bright and tangy but also rather generously proportioned wine was sourced from several organically farmed sites.  -Wall Street Journal

Neal Martin writes:  Plenty of appealing, ripe, sun-kissed fruit on the palate but with the acidity to keep in balance. Quite different from 2021 in style, will have wide appeal but perhaps less for Chablis purists.  Drinking 2024 to 2032.  - Vinous 90

Andy Howard MW writes:  Plenty of appealing, ripe, sun-kissed fruit on the palate but with the acidity to keep in balance. Quite different from 2021 in style, will have wide appeal but perhaps less for Chablis purists.  - Decanter

Allen Meadows writes:  This is also aromatically ripe and fresh with more citrus influence to the white orchard fruit, ocean breeze and quinine-scented nose. The plump, round and delicious medium weight flavors possess a finer mouthfeel while exhibiting slightly better depth and persistence on the nicely dry if not exactly crisp finale. This too should drink well young.  - Burghound

Our Professional Review 

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com writes |  A classic mineral driven Sancerre with a lovely bouquet of freshly squeezed lime, lemon zest, gooseberry and peach blossom with a pleasant grassy note. Crisp and lively in the mouth, deliciously refreshing,  with excellent precision and energetic focus on the finish.  - 67Wine Buyer

Winemaker Description 

Concours des Ligers - The bright pale yellow color opens on an expressive and attractive nose that associates the smells of citrus with those of exotic fruits (passion), with a hint of banana. The mouth with a lively attack offers a fleshy matter, "fat", a beautiful balance between freshness and roundness, as well as fruity aromas (lychee) that persist in a fine and gourmet finish. Beautiful Sancerre.  - Concours des Ligers Silver Medal 

Domaine Olivier Foucher is a small, 10 hectare farm located along the slopes of the town of Morogues in the Menetou-Salon appellation of the Loire Valley. Olivier created the estate in 1992 and grows Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, making wines that are incredibly complex and at the same time dangerously drinkable. Menetou-Salon is an appellation located directly west of Sancerre. While the wines of Sancerre are more well known (and consequently more expensive), the wines of Menetou provide as good quality at a better price. The terroir in this region is laden with the limestone-rich, calcareous soils from millions of years ago, leftover from when the region was under sea; it is quite similar to the terroir of Chablis Grand Crus. 

The Domaine Olivier Foucher Menetou-Salon is spectacularly fine and polished. This 100% Sauvignon Blanc is always beautifully represented here at the shop and the superior quality is consistent with each new vintage. Light lemon in color, the wine has a delicate floral scent, with a touch of lime zest and tangerine on the nose. The palate is full of white-fleshed fruits — particularly peach and pear — that blend with more exotic, softer notes of grapefruit and papaya.

Wave after wave of mouth-puckering acidity and a mineral-packed finish will keep you coming back for more! Perhaps the most impressive feature of the wine is its impeccable balance of flavor intensity, structural tension and length: everything is where it should be, making this Sauvignon Blanc almost too easy to drink. This is an exceptional seafood wine — think oysters, scallops, smoked trout, shellfish — but it is also perfect for a salad of fresh greens with apples, goat cheese and walnuts.

Critic Notes

Luis Gutierrez writes:  The Albariño 2023 El Jardín de Lucía was produced by Zarate mixing grapes from different villages in Salnés, Meaño and Meis. It has an expressive nose that mixes white flowers and apples and is quite fresh and elegant. It has a moderate 12.5% alcohol, some more leesy aromas and a round palate, with pungent flavors and a gentle texture.  It was bottled in May 2024.  Drinking 2024 to 2027.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 92

 

El Jardín de Lucía Albariño boasting lifted and intense ripe citrus and stone fruit aromas, a vibrant and textural palate, and a complex finish with crisp acidity and a refreshing saline twist. Perfectly pairs with fresh white crab, seabass, squid and sardines.

Winemaker Description

This wine is rich and round, opening with aromas of Meyer lemon, apricot, vanilla, graham cracker, and buttered popcorn. The palate shows incredible depth with a full mouthfeel and layers of flavor. Ripe peach, pineapple, and caramel lead to hazelnut and baking spice notes on the finish.

This versatile Chardonnay pairs perfectly with seafood, poultry, white meats and dishes with cream sauces. Try preparations that include citrus, butter, cream, cheese, bacon, nutmeg, thyme, basil or toasted nuts.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling writes:  Mineral and sliced cooked apples with lemon zest and hints of vanilla. Medium-bodied with some phenolics and tension and a fruity finish. Drink now. Screw cap.  - James Suckling 91

Audrey Frick writes:  The bright yellow 2022 Chardonnay Sonoma County is forward and ripe in the glass with aromas of ripe melon, tangerine, and sweet oak spices. Full-bodied, generous, and persistent on the palate, it has a rounded feel and a fresh lift on the finish. It’s a charming and ripe style to drink over the next year or two. Bottled under screwcap.  - Jeb Dunnuck 

MaryAnn Worobiec writes:  Generous and round, this shows notes of butterscotch, peach preserves and apple pastry on a ripe, creamy frame, with nutmeg and clove details on the finish. Drink now.   - Wine Spectator

Winemaker Description

Made from Biodynamically grown certified organic grapes. Pale straw color with a green tinge. On the nose, cantaloupe, tropical fruits, passionfruit, key lime pie, and honeysuckle flowers. Granny Smith apple, gooseberry, pie crust and hazelnuts on the palate. Rich with raw acidity and evolving length. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2023 

A great everyday red that perfectly suits both simple meals and gourmet feasts! Savory dark red fruit aromas develop in the mouth with background luscious layers of black olives, crushed black pepper and herbs de Provence. Medium bodied and highly versatile with supple tannins and a long, delightful finish.

Winemaker Notes 

The new release of our custom Côtes du Rhône is just in, and it’s a good one! This cuvée dates back to the ’80s, when Kermit found an inexpensive source of delicious everyday Côtes du Rhône, and it has been among our best-sellers every year since its inception. We make our blend from a large selection of different wines: a dozen or more tanks are often presented, and countless combinations are tested over the course of several grueling hours in the cellar. At the end, it often comes down to adjusting a half-percentage of this or a smidge of that. Every drop counts!

The 2022 vintage of this wine is very Rhôney—it tastes exactly how Côtes du Rhône should taste. It’s as if the hot summer concentrated the herbal essences of the region’s wild vegetation—la garrigue—giving it a lovely savory note to contrast with its chewy, ripe, mouth-filling fruit. You might also find a stony impression suggestive of the Rhône’s famous riverbed stones, which cover the vineyards.There is enough tannin for it to shine with roasted lamb, should you opt for a regional pairing, but not too much that you can’t gulp it just for the sake of gulping. The finish is surprisingly long and full of perfume.

Our final blend this year features Syrah and Grenache, with a touch of Mourvèdre and other local grapes. We ask for it unfiltered, because we think the extra aroma and flavor is well worth a little bit of sediment.

Critic Notes

Jane Anson writes:  Intense, smoky, plenty of black fruit, who doesn't love this 2nd wine of Château Montrose? It's a vintage that is often overlooked, particularly after the run of great years Bordeaux has had recently, but it's at a great moment to open right now, and delivers a ton of St Estèphe and Left Bank typicity, with crayon and graphite. Harvest September 22 to October 16.  - Jane Anson 94

Antonio Galloni writes:  A gorgeous second wine, the 2014 La Dame de Montrose is soft, open-knit and very pretty. Bright floral notes add lift and a measure of elegance to the dark-fleshed fruit. Medium in body, with good depth and fine overall balance, the 2014 is just about as good as it gets for a second wine. I won't be surprised if it is still delicious at age 20, although I think its best drinking will take place earlier than that.  Drinking 2018 - 2029  - Vinous 92+

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  As to the 2014s, these are beautiful wines and certainly a match for the 2015s. The 2014 La Dame de Montrose offers a deep purple color and classic Cabernet Sauvignon notes as well as a touch of violets, spring flowers and leafy herbs. This medium-bodied, elegant, spicy, complex 2014 has loads of charm yet should keep nicely for 15+ years.  Drinking 2018 - 2038  - Jeb Dunnuck 90

Steven Spurrier writes:  An even Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend: lots of spice, deep cassis fruit and incredible freshness. Will show soon and last well.  - Decanter 90

James Molesworth writes:  Offers a brisk, racy feel, with red currant, damson plum and Campari notes coursing through, carried by a bright iron spine through the savory-flecked finish. Very pure and firmly grounded in terroir. Best from 2018 through 2026. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.  - Wine Spectator 90

Neal Martin writes:  The 2014 La Dame de Montrose lagged a long way behind the superlative Grand Vin at primeur, but has since made up some ground. Now in bottle, it has a nicely poised bouquet with red cherries, bilberry and crushed violets. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp acidity, tightly wound and linear, a conservative La Dame de Montrose that I suspect will age better than I originally thought.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 

Test of Endurance: Bordeaux 2014 Ten Years On (Mar 2024)

Neal Martin writes:  The 2014 La Dame de Montrose is more precocious than Lafon-Rochet on the nose, with hints of dried cherries and black olive compote infusing the black fruit, touches of humidor and red brick. The palate is medium-bodied with dusky black fruit, fine tannins and a little austerity towards the finish, though at least it does exude Saint-Estèphe DNA. Give it a year in bottle. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting.  - Vinous

Winemaker Description 

Color  is straw yellow, with slight greenish hints. Offers a particularly fine mineral feeling and notes of fruit and white flowers. Mouthfeel is lively, balanced, with a fresh acidity, which increases its persistance and favours its drinkability.

A slight almondish finish.

Perfect pairing - Excellent as aperitif, paired with hors d’oeuvres and fish ragú or vegetable first courses. It is the perfect match also for seafood.

The vineyard's soil at La Raia is calcareous and clayey, it's approximately 400 metres above sea level with a south-east and south-west exposure. The vineyards surround the cellar, with an average density of 4500 plants per hectare. In accordance with the farm’s core philosophy and in line with the biodynamic principles, the vines are farmed without the use of any chemicals.

Our Notes

One of the most classic and historic producers in all of Rioja. Medium-bodied with chew tannins with ripe red fruit flavors. Beautiful finish with a lively acidity.
- Oscar Garcia, Wine Buyer, 67wine

Critics Notes

Jancis Robinson writes:  Maturing blackish ruby with a pale rim. Classic, traditional rioja nose with notes of vanilla (American oak) and supremely ripe fruit – the sweetness and tobacco leaves of Tempranillo. The label looks a tad unserious but the wine belies this. It should be set for many years' further evolution because the tannins are still evident now. There's real lift and refreshment to this wine.  Drinking 2024 - 2034.  Jancis Robinson 17+

Winemaker Notes

Deep purple colour with intense aromas of red and black fruits, crushed violets and a touch of mocha. The palate has generous ripe fruits and a plush, velvety texture supported by vibrant acidity, with fruits and spices that linger on the finish. Extreme refinement.

Critic Notes

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  The 2019 Le Petit Ducru De Ducru-Beaucaillou is also Merlot-dominated and includes 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. It offers classic Saint-Julien elegance and purity in its darker currant and cherry fruits as well as notes of tobacco, violets, and lead pencil. With medium-bodied richness on the palate, it has wonderful tannins, a balanced, layered mouthfeel, and outstanding length. It needs air to show at its best and is just a charming, elegant, layered 2019 to enjoy over any time over the coming decade.  Drinking 2022 to 3032.  - Jeb Dunnuck 91

Georgina Hindle writes:  Lovely, fresh, delicate and fruity nose; smells quite rich and ripe. Good push of plush fruit, bright cherry straight away then darkens to something more serious and sensual. Tannins are overpowering, just so abundant, covering the tongue and cheeks but they're soft - you need that structure to give it life. Feels sculpted if a little excessive right now, but good freshness and drive, and round on the mid-palate with no angles. Some spice at the end. From the western part of the appellation, a parcel of about 25ha purchased in the 1970s. 10ha in the process of being replanted - so 15ha in production. This is the third wine and receives declassified fruit from the higher wines, although produced with the same philosophy.  Drinking 2023 to 2031  - Decanter 90

Antonio Galloni writes:  The 2019 Le Petit Ducru de Ducru-Beaucaillou is plush, creamy and open-knit, all of which give it considerable immediacy, not to mention tons of charm. Succulent dark cherry, plum, mocha and licorice lend nuance in this racy, Merlot-based blend. The Petit Ducru is a new wine meant to be the third selection from the château.  Drinking 2025 to 2029.  - Vinous 92

Winemaker Description 

Expert Reviews

Anne Krebiehl MW writes:  The 2023 Grüner Veltliner Kremser Freiheit is from three single sites, Weinzierlberg, Holzgasse and Frechau, all on deep loess, made in stainless steel. The lovely freshness of green fruits is shy on the nose. The palate is light and crunchy but has enticing edges of white pepper on its light, bright, vivid body. (Bone-dry).  Drinking 2024 to 2028.  - Vinous 

Kristen Bieler writes:  There's floral charm in this clean, pure version, which is filled out with apple blossom, melon and quince flavors. Offers good minerality and herbal vibrancy, with some spice elements on the snappy finish. Drink now.  - Wine Spectator

James Suckling writes:  This has sliced pears, grapefruit, celery salt and a hint of white pepper on the nose. Very fresh and crisp on the palate, with a medium body and a crunchy finish. Drink now. Screw cap.  - James Suckling 91

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. Winemaker Description. 

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com | Made from organically grown grapes and vegan friendly, this dark, juicy, easy drinking Nero d’Avola is uncomplicated, packed with flavor, and irresistibly delicious. Plump and round in the mouth with blackberry, plum and raspberry fruit at its core with silky tannins and a velvety rich texture. An affordable indulgence for any meal, this is an ideal partner to pasta in tomato sauce and hearty pizza.

Winemaker Description

Deep purple red color. The nose reveals intense fruity notes of blackberry and blueberry compote, together with smoky and spicy notes. On the palate it is extraordinarily round and complete, with a natural and effortless balance of tannin and acidity, structure and length.

Purato’s environmental commitment extends into the winery. Purato uses eco-friendly packaging, made from recycled paper, pure vegetable ink on the labels and 85% recycled glass for the bottle.

Critic Notes

James Suckling writes:  A fresh and attractive sparkling rosé that suggests tulips and raspberries. Some light froth on the palate and a medium body make for pleasant, easy drinking. Nice minerality on the finish. Drink now.  - James Suckling 90

Winemaker Notes

A Cava of the traditional method, the grapes for this blush sparkler are sourced from clay and calcareous vineyards. A hand-gathered harvest selects the best of the plots, before pressing and a 12 hour maceration. The wine then ages for 24 months on the lees.

Bright strawberry notes are at the forefront of this energetic sparkler, backed by tropical, citrus aromas. Touches of minerality show through the fine mousse and lead into a bright finish of grapefruit acidity.

Garnatxa and Pinot Noir

GOLD MEDAL – GILBERT & GAILLARD INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE 2018

91 POINTS - GOURMETS GUIDE

Winemaker Description

Rich blackberry and plum on the nose with notes of aniseed. Full-bodied with dark bramble fruit and well-coated tannins on the palate. The long finish reveals layers of black licorice and dried sage.

Expert Ratings

95+ Points Vinous | The 2021 Lytton Springs is fabulous. Bright and vibrant to its core, the 2021 impresses with its poise. Readers will find a Lytton Springs that is very much in reserve, as opposed to the rest of the 2021s in this report, all of which are more approachable. Salivating acids and veins of tannin lend shape and persistence, but the 2021 needs time. Red cherry fruit, blood orange, rose petal and sage are some of the notes that linger on the close.

93 Points Jeb Dunnuck | The 2021 Lytton Springs is based on 72% Zinfandel, 15% Petite Sirah, and the rest Carignan, Alicante Bouschet, Cinsault, and Counoise. This deep ruby/purple-hued effort has a juicy, lively, medium-bodied style as well as both red and blue fruits, some peppery, herbal, spicy nuances, lots of floral character, and ripe, polished tannins. It shines for its fresher, focused, elegant profile, and its purity of fruit is top-notch. 

93 Points Wine Spectator | Robust and rustic, yet retains a sense of style, with deep blackberry, savory anise and black pepper flavors that gather tension and structure toward broad-shouldered tannins. Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignane, Alicante Bouschet, Cinsault and Counoise.

Samantha Cole-Johnson writes:  Medium ruby with a purple hue. Really dusty with some vanilla and spice, black plum, red cherry, a touch of cedar and spicy red floral notes. Long, sweet-spice finish. Cranberry sauce and cinnamon. Lots of depth and layering to this wine.  Drinking 2024 to 2035.  - Jancis Robinson 17.5+

Expert Ratings

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points |  The medium red 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale is inviting with aromas of poppy red cherry, dusty earth, roses, and orange peel. Medium-bodied and juicy all the way through, this is an easygoing quaffer with a kiss of sweet tannins that are fine-grained all the way through the finish. It keeps good freshness for this hot vintage and has some warmth on the finish. It’s a versatile wine for pizza night or drinking on its own over the next few years. 

James Suckling 93 Points |   This has a toasty character with hints of cardamom, cloves and crushed walnuts with ripe red fruit, plum skins and red flowers in the background. It’s full-bodied with firm, chalky tannins and steady acidity to give it freshness. A little bit of toasted oak at the end. Lengthy and spiced with a crunchy finish. Better after 2025. 

Ned Goodwin MW writes:  Benchmark Valpo. Others should take note. A thirst-slaking rail of salty phenolics, doused in tangerines and sour cherries, with a touch of garden and alpine herbs. Brisk acidity carries length, finishing with a kick of quinine. Delicious. From organically grown grapes. Sustainable. Drink now.  - James Suckling 91

Alison Napjus writes:  A bright, balanced red, with light tannins and ripe cherry and cranberry fruit accented by blood orange peel, incense and rooibos tea notes. Drink now.  - Wine Spectator

 

Winemaker Description 

A young and uninhibited wine which is the lifeblood of the land from which it originates. A magnificent table companion suitable for serving with all kinds of dishes. After many years of sustainable agriculture the Speri family obtained organic certification in 2015. All Speri wines are now organic.

Ruby red in color with purplish highlights and an intense, vinous bouquet, with hints of violets and cherries. A medium-bodied, fruity wine, to be enjoyed young. An ideal accompaniment to hors d’oeuvres, soups, pasta and typical Mediterranean dishes.

Winemaker Description

Deep ruby core with vivid ruby rim. The nose is very fine and multi-layered, with rich strawberry jam aromas, herbal notes, and fresh scents of cedarwood. There is also a discrete dimension, a luxurious redolence of leather and mocha coffee. In contrast, and in keeping with the Taylor house style, the palate has an attractive edge of austerity with taut tannins providing a firm grip to the long finish which delivers a surge of rich berry fruit flavor. A beautifully refined wine, poised and complete, displaying a complexity comparable with that of a mature classic vintage port. A beautiful expression of the 2018 vintage with its accent on elegance and finesse.

Excellent with fully flavored cheeses, especially blue cheeses. It is also delicious with desserts made with chocolate or berry fruits. Winemaker Description.

Expert Reviews

92 Points Wine Spectator | Shows a nice core of dark currant and fig fruit that’s been steeped with anise, alder and bittersweet cocoa. Give this a little time in a decanter or cellar for another couple of winters. Possesses the stuffing to cover slow sipping over a weekend.

 

Winemaker Description 

Stephan Reinhardt writes:  The 2014 Riesling Cuvée Frédéric Emile is highly complex on the clear, intense and smoky, lemony nose. Clear, fresh, straight and very mineral on the nose, this is a pure but complex, intense, stony Riesling that is pretty austere at the moment. Provided with racy acidity, but concentrated and mineral on the palate, this is exceptional dry Riesling with great tension. To be served in 10, 20 and even in 30 years.  Drinking 2025 to 2040.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94+

Ian D’Agata writes:  Vivid straw-green. Delicate nuances of jasmine and lemon verbena complicate aromas of green apple, lime and minerals. Pure and penetrating on the palate, boasting superb definition to the flavors of gin, mint, minerals, violet and lemon zest. The finish is remarkably crystalline and long. This Frédéric Emile is currently dominated by its Osterberg component (the cuvée is a blend of Osterberg and Geisberg grand cru grapes), which brings chiseled acidity, as opposed to the Geisberg’s ripe fruit personality and licorice quality. Despite the difficult year, this is likely to become a memorable Frédéric Emile. So much so, in fact, that it’s currently impossible to choose between it and the more famous Clos Sainte Hune.  Drinking 2022 to 2045.  - Vinous 94+

James Suckling writes:  So much mineral and sliced apple character with hints of orange and apple peel. Turns to steely character. Full-bodied, racy and bright. So lively. Great finish. Drink or hold on release.  - James Suckling 96

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  Coming close to a decade after the vintage, the 2014 Riesling Cuvée Frédéric Emile is still vivid and racy, with a taut, focused, almost austere style in its ripe citrus, crushed stone, hazelnut, and smoky mineral-driven aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied and nicely concentrated, with high yet integrated acidity, this needs another 4-5 years of bottle age, as it's currently austere, firm, and inward. It will be an incredibly long-lived Riesling, but how much pleasure it will ultimately deliver might be questionable.  Drinking after 2027.  - Jeb Dunnuck 92+

Alison Napjus writes:  A bone-dry, racy white, with a lovely entry point of slate, petrol and brine aromas on the nose, plus a minerally profile that underscores notes of crunchy nectarine, kiwifruit, cherry blossoms, pink grapefruit pith and fresh thyme. Firm and linear, this graceful version exhibits seamless knit and definition. Drink now through 2039.  - Wine Spectator 95

Jancis Robinson writes:  To be released around 2022 or 2023. Razor-sharp nose and very tight. Lots to chew on. They could release this and no one would object but I can see why they want it to unfurl a bit.  Drinking 2022 to 2035.  - Jancis Robinson 17.5+

Winemaker Notes

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Antonio Galloni of Vinous writes 92 Points | The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Antinori is laced with black cherry, plum, new leather, licorice and spice. Ample and expansive in feel, the 2021 is wonderfully generous, not to mention incredibly delicious. Fruit sources are from some of the most coveted sites in the appellation.  Drinking 2024 to 2031. 

Monica Larner of the Wine Advocate writes 92 Points | This wine sees its fruit sourced from multiple villages: San Casciano, Gaiole, Castellina and Greve. The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Antinori is not married to a specific subzone of the appellation because it seeks to embrace a house style rather than a vineyard identity. Aged in tonneaux with some barrique, the wine is rich and lasting but not large. In fact, it remains elegant on the palate with fine tannins and good fruit tension with cherry and blue flowers.  Drinking 2024 - 2030.

Bruce Sanderson of the Wine Spectator writes 92 Points | This is packed tightly with cherry, pomegranate, plum, earth and Mediterranean scrub flavors. Lively and fresh midpalate, while the dense, chewy tannins flex their muscles on the finish. Give this time. Best from 2026 through 2043. 

James Button of Decanter writes 91 Points | A historic label first produced in the 1923 vintage, today's Riserva aims to combine the past with the present. Vinified in stainless steel and aged in large oak barrels and some barriques, this has a plush, ripe aroma of dark hedgerow berries and menthol. A bed of supple, ripe tannins and coffee-marked wood support the breadth and depth of this wine's offering: spicy and fleshy dark fruits with a gentle wash of freshening acidity and some breezy menthol on the finish. 500,000 bottles produced.  Drinking 2024 to 2032.

Critic Notes

James Suckling writes:  Lots of passion fruit, guava and grapefruit on the nose. Bright, tropical and balanced, with medium body and a juicy, fruity finish. Sustainable. Drink now. Screw cap.  - James Suckling 90

Tamlyn Currin writes:  For a wine that is presumably made in vast quantities and in the most technical way possibly, this is surprisingly good. Full of bodacious tropical fruit. Mangoes and oranges with a little bit of grapefruit and sweet fennel. The balance of fruit and acidity is great, and it certainly tastes and feels more full-bodied than 12.5%. It's generous, friendly and appealing. I really can't fault it!   - Jancis Robinson 16

MaryAnn Worobiec writes:  A vibrant version, showing a mix of pineapple, mango and passion fruit flavors that is direct and mouthwatering, with touches of ginger and green tea on the finish. Drink now.  - Wine Spectator

Erin Larkin writes:  The 2023 Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc is a behemoth in the export market, and it delivers a pretty archetypal “Marlborough Sauvy” experience—crunchy, herbal, green, tropical and juicy. All good things in this context. 12.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

 Roger Jones, Freddy Bulmer, Cat Lomax write:  Delicate mineral notes with a mixture of passionfruit and meadow grass aromas. Citrus fruit, butterscotch, stone fruit, white peaches and nectarine.  - Decanter

Winemaker Notes

 

Winemaker Descripton 

Whispering Angel is today's worldwide reference for Provence Rosé. Made from Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle (Vermentino), its pale color is pleasing to the eye and draws one in. The rewarding taste profile is full and lush while being bone dry with a smooth finish.

Highly approachable and enjoyable with a broad range of cuisine, Whispering Angel is a premium Rosé that you can drink from mid-day to midnight. 

This rose wine is delicate, clean and minerally. Pale salmon in color. Fresh peach and strawberry on the nose with plenty of red berry fruits. Full bodied and dry, with pink grapefruit and hints of peach on the palate, lively acidity and a long finish.

A beautifully made wine.

Whispering Angel Rose is made by Sacha Lichine and his team at Chateau d'Esclans, in La Motte en Provence, south France. Made from grapes grown from some of the most choice land in the surrounding region of la Motte en Provence, consisting primarily of Grenache, Rolle (Vermentino) and Cinsault.

Expert Review

James Suckling 91 Points | A silky, seductive and saline Côtes de Provence rosé with aromas of small berries, red currants and salt. It’s medium-bodied, succulent, fresh and playful, with a caressing texture and a vivid, saline finish. (2023).