Labor Day Sale - Reds!

Villa Antinori Rosso Toscana — Tuscany 2023

First crafted in 1928, Villa Antinori Rosso Toscana is one of Italy’s most enduring and beloved Super Tuscans — a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah that reflects nearly a century of winemaking tradition from the Antinori family, whose history in Florentine winemaking dates back to 1385. Approachable, versatile, and consistently earning critical acclaim, it delivers the character and soul of Tuscany at an everyday price. The 2023 vintage earned 90 points from Wine Spectator and is drinking beautifully now through 2030.

The color is ruby red, intense and captivating. The nose offers dark fruit, tobacco, juniper berries, sweet spices, coffee, and hazelnuts. On the palate, it is mouth-filling and pleasantly sapid — smoky black cherry, black currant, and tobacco are framed by a layer of chalky tannins, lively freshness, and a persistent, fruit-driven finish.

Wine Spectator 90 — “Smoky, with aromas and flavors of sweet spices, black cherry, black currant and tobacco. A layer of chalky tannins lends support. Fresh, with fine length. Drink now through 2030.” (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Marchesi Antinori, Tuscany, Italy
• First Vintage: 1928
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
• Style: Super Tuscan
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, tobacco, juniper, sweet spice, coffee, hazelnut, black cherry, black currant, chalky tannins, persistent finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Pappardelle with wild boar ragù, grilled lamb chops, Bistecca alla Fiorentina, aged Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano

Nearly a century of Super Tuscan tradition, 90 points from Wine Spectator, and priced for every night of the week — Villa Antinori is the Tuscan classic that never disappoints.

One of Rioja's most reliable and beloved Crianzas — Marqués de Cáceres delivers classic Tempranillo character with the polish and consistency that has made this estate a benchmark producer in the appellation for decades. Hand-harvested from old vines in Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa, aged 12 months in French and American oak, and built for everyday enjoyment at an exceptional price.

Sommelier's Pick

Oscar Garcia, Lead Wine Sommelier, 67Wine.com: "One of Rioja's benchmark Crianzas. A well-rounded red that delivers a solid drinking experience. Aromas of plum compote, cassis and notes of cinnamon and cloves. Medium-bodied with polished and pleasant tannins. Consistent and satisfying finish."

Vineyard & Winemaking

• DOCa Rioja — Tempranillo and other traditional varieties
• Hand-harvested from small, low-yield old vine plots in Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa
• Clayey-limestone soils with ferrous subsoil in Rioja Alta; more limestone in Rioja Alavesa
• 12 months in French (60%) and American (40%) oak barrels
• Oak distribution: 25% new, 25% second-use, 50% third- to fourth-use — for balance and integration
• Vegan-friendly

The 2021 Vintage

An excellent growing season with 30% more rainfall than average, well-distributed across the year. A warm February brought consistent bud break, while a warm and slightly humid May supported healthy early growth. A 10-week period of showers with ideal temperatures through summer ensured slow, even ripening — resulting in fresh, well-structured fruit with natural acidity and balance.

Tasting Profile

Deep ruby with a garnet rim. The nose offers inviting aromas of plum compote, cassis, cinnamon, and cloves with a subtle vanilla oak lift. On the palate it's medium-bodied with polished, approachable tannins, bright acidity, and a consistent, satisfying finish. Classic Rioja Crianza — honest, food-friendly, and endlessly drinkable.

Perfect Pairings

Serve at 62–65°F with beef stew, lamb chops, roasted chicken, paella, shrimp fried rice, or a simple charcuterie board. A versatile everyday red that punches well above its price point.

E. Guigal · Côtes du Rhône Rouge · Southern Rhône · France · 2022 · 750ml

E. Guigal is the most celebrated name in the Rhône Valley — a family estate founded in Ampuis in 1946 by Etienne Guigal and now run by his son Marcel, whose obsessive commitment to quality has made Guigal synonymous with the finest expressions of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre from Hermitage to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The Côtes du Rhône Rouge is Guigal’s benchmark entry-level wine: a blend of 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, and 10% Mourvèdre, partially aged in large oak foudres, and crafted to deliver genuine Rhône character at an honest price. The 2022 vintage was the hottest and driest growing season since 1950 — intense heatwaves followed by mid-August rainfall that promoted ripening and yielded concentrated, full-bodied wines of exceptional richness and depth. Jeb Dunnuck called it “smoking good.” At $18.99, this is one of the most compelling values in French red wine.

Deep ruby in the glass with an intensely aromatic nose of blackberry, black plum, pepper, garrigue, and a whisper of cocoa — generous, expressive, and unmistakably southern Rhône. On the palate: full-bodied and round, with lush dark fruit, velvety tannins, and a long, elegant finish that shows real finesse beyond the abundance of fruit. Three critics, three 90+ scores: Jeb Dunnuck 91, Wine Enthusiast 91, Wine Advocate 90. Drink now through 2028. Pair with charcuterie, braised lamb, beef stew, roast chicken, or a simple cheese board.

• Producer: E. Guigal (est. 1946, Ampuis)
• Wine: Côtes du Rhône Rouge AOC
• Vintage: 2022
• Origin: Southern Rhône Valley, France
• Blend: 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre
• Aging: Partially aged in large oak foudres
• Style: Full-bodied, generous southern Rhône red
• Scores: Jeb Dunnuck 91 · Wine Enthusiast 91 · Wine Advocate 90
• Drinking Window: Now–2028
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, black plum, pepper, garrigue, cocoa, velvety tannins, long elegant finish
• Pair With: Charcuterie · Braised lamb · Beef stew · Roast chicken · Cheese board

The Rhône’s most celebrated name, three 90+ scores — southern France’s most reliable everyday red.

Expert Reviews

Jeb Dunnuck — 91 Points
“Smoking good — blackberries, pepper, and garrigue in a round, supple, medium to full-bodied style. Remarkable quality for the appellation.”

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
“Black plum and cocoa-dusted aromas bump against raspberry and black tea. Fulsome in body, with red fruit riding all the way to the finish, made more complex by velvety tannins.”

Wine Advocate — 90 Points
“Juicy, round and elegant — remarkably dense for the vintage and represents excellent value.”

La Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi Reserva Selección Especial — Rioja Alta 2021

Viña Alberdi is the entry-level Reserva of La Rioja Alta — and the 2021 vintage is something genuinely extraordinary. This is only the second vintage in the wine’s history to receive the designation “Selección Especial”; the first was the legendary 2001. Sourced from 40-year-old Tempranillo vines in Rodezno and Labastida, harvested manually in boxes with cluster selection in the vineyard, and aged two years in American oak — new barrels the first year, four-year-old barrels the second — with four traditional rackings by candlelight. Wine Advocate awarded it 94 points. Vinous gave it 92. Wine Spectator 91. 

Intense, brilliant garnet with a vivid ruby rim. The nose is high-intensity and expressive: raspberries, wild strawberries, redcurrants, wrapped in balsamic aromas of caramel, vanilla, toffee, and roasted coffee. On the palate, it is long, balanced, and fresh, with fine, silky tannins, terrific energy, and a long finish where red fruit and balsamic notes reappear with remarkable precision. Drink now through 2036.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

Wine Advocate 94 — “Without a doubt, this is the finest Alberdi I can remember… very classical and very clean, showing incipient complexity. It has terrific balance and freshness and pungent, focused and precise flavors.”

Vinous 92 — “Marks only the second Selección Especial since 2001… its vintage quality shows clearly, lending energy and length to a very classical Rioja.”

Wine Spectator 91 — “A harmonious red, round and creamy, with a pure beam of ripe black cherry fruit married to supple tannins and accents of graphite, spice box and dark chocolate.”

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

• Producer: La Rioja Alta, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Vintage: 2021 — Selección Especial (only 2nd since 2001)
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa — Reserva
• Varietal: 100% Tempranillo — avg. 40-year-old vines, Rodezno & Labastida
• Aging: 2 years American oak (new + 4-year-old barrels), 4 rackings by candlelight
• Production: 650,000 bottles
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, wild strawberry, redcurrant, caramel, vanilla, toffee, roasted coffee, silky tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2036
• Best Paired With: Charcuterie, barbecue, rice dishes, pasta, stews, grilled meats and fish

A 94-point Rioja Reserva Selección Especial at an honest price — Viña Alberdi 2021 is the benchmark for what classic Rioja Alta can be.

Masciarelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2024

Masciarelli is one of Abruzzo’s most celebrated and influential estates, founded by the visionary Gianni Masciarelli in 1981 and today guided by his daughter Marina Cvetič. From their base in San Martino sulla Marrucina, the estate has done more than perhaps any other producer to elevate the reputation of Abruzzo on the world stage — proving that this rugged, sun-drenched region between the Apennines and the Adriatic can produce wines of genuine depth, character, and value.

The Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is the estate’s flagship entry-level red — and a benchmark for the appellation. Montepulciano, Abruzzo’s signature grape, thrives in the region’s warm days and cool nights, producing wines that are naturally rich, fleshy, and deeply colored, with a rustic charm and food-friendliness that make them among Italy’s most versatile reds. The Wall Street Journal calls it “an excellent food wine” — and it’s hard to argue.

The 2024 opens with aromas of ripe dark cherry, blackberry, and plum, with attractive spicy and smoky undertones. The palate is fleshy and full-bodied, with generous dark fruit, soft tannins, and impressive length. A true trattoria red — best enjoyed young, with food, and in good company.

Varietal: Montepulciano
Appellation: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC, Abruzzo, Italy
Vintage: 2024
Format: 750ml

Château Hyot Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux — Bordeaux, France 2019

Château Hyot is situated on the slopes just west of Castillon, in the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux appellation — one of Bordeaux's most exciting value regions, where Merlot-dominant wines of genuine character are produced at a fraction of the price of their Saint-Émilion neighbors across the border. The estate's sandy-gravelly soils act as a natural flavor enhancer, contributing a distinctive minerality and freshness that elevates the wine beyond its price point. The 2019 vintage — one of Bordeaux's finest of the last decade — delivered exceptional ripeness and concentration across the Right Bank.

The wine pours an intense ruby with shiny reflections. The nose is expressive and layered — blackberry, blackcurrant, blueberry, mulberry, dark plum, dried herbs, and a touch of cigar box and toasted oak. On the palate, it's medium-bodied and Merlot-driven, with powdery tannins, juicy acidity, and a savory, earthy, flavorful finish that reflects the authenticity of the terroir. Drink now or hold through 2026.

"Mulberries, dark plums, dried herbs, burdock and cigar box on the nose. Medium body with powdery tannins. Fruity, with fresh acidity and a flavorful, earthy finish." — James Suckling, 90 Points

• Producer: Château Hyot, Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux AOC
• Varietal: Merlot-dominant
• Terroir: Sandy-gravelly slopes west of Castillon
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: James Suckling 90 | Wine Enthusiast 90
• Drink: Now through 2026
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, blackcurrant, dark plum, dried herbs, cigar box, powdery tannins, earthy finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled beef, duck, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses

Dual 90-point Right Bank Bordeaux at an exceptional price — Castillon terroir, 2019 vintage, and Merlot-driven generosity in every glass.

Côtes du Rhône Syrah from One of the Southern Rhône’s Most Historic Estates

Château de Saint Cosme has been in the hands of the Barruol family since 1490, making it one of the oldest continuously family-owned estates in the Rhône Valley. Under Louis Barruol, who took over in 1992, Saint Cosme has become a benchmark for the appellation. The 2025 Côtes du Rhône — 100% Syrah from the stony Villafranchian terraces of the Gard, with limestone sand, red clay, and pebbles — is fermented with natural yeasts and vinified in concrete vats, delivering a wine of remarkable purity, freshness, and character at an exceptional price.

Expert Review - Prior Vintage 2024 

• Wine Spectator — 90 pts: "A pure core of fresh blackberry, crunchy plum and violet in this vibrant version, with the subtlest brushing of vanilla. Layers of graphite and fine-grained tannins provide a solid framework. Compact, with savory details emerging toward the solid, medium-bodied finish, grounded in salty mineral notes and a waft of alder smoke. Drink now through 2028."

Winemaker Notes

100% Syrah from the stony Villafranchian terraces of the Gard. The vineyards are known for their limestone sand, red clay, and pebbles, which give freshness and intensity to the Syrah grapes. Partially destemmed, fermented with natural yeasts, and vinified in concrete vats. Typical spicy notes of sandalwood, violets, and black pepper.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 100% Syrah
• Appellation: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Producer: Château de Saint Cosme (Barruol family, est. 1490)
• Vintage: 2024
• Vinification: Partially destemmed, natural yeasts, concrete vats
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for Provençal and Mediterranean cuisine — exceptional with grilled beef or venison with black pepper and thyme, roasted duck, pork, mushroom dishes, and Moroccan tagines.

Alamos Malbec Mendoza 2024 — Mendoza, Argentina

Alamos is the approachable, everyday label from Catena Zapata — Argentina’s most celebrated wine family and the producer widely credited with putting Mendoza Malbec on the world map. While Catena’s flagship wines command serious prices, Alamos was created to deliver the same Andean terroir and winemaking philosophy at an accessible price point. Sourced from high-altitude Mendoza vineyards where the combination of intense sunlight, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils produces Malbec of exceptional depth and character.

The 2024 shows a deep ruby color with violet hues. The nose offers layers of dark cherry, blackberry, violet, and vanilla spice. On the palate, the wine is velvety and expansive, with balanced tannins and a long, smooth, lingering finish — complex and approachable in equal measure.

Catena Zapata’s everyday Malbec — Andean terroir, honest price, zero compromise.

• Producer: Alamos (Catena Zapata), Mendoza, Argentina
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Mendoza, Argentina
• Varietal: Malbec
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, violet, vanilla spice, velvety tannins, long smooth finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, skirt steak, Argentine asado, lamb chops, braised short ribs, hard cheeses, empanadas

Mendoza Malbec from the house that defined it — Alamos is the benchmark for everyday Argentine red.

CUNE Crianza Rioja — Rioja DOCa 2021

CUNE Crianza is the calling card of Bodegas CVNE — and the 2021 vintage is a textbook expression of everything that makes Rioja Crianza so enduringly lovable. Sourced from estate vineyards in Rioja Alta, the wine is aged 12 months in American and French oak before additional bottle aging, preserving the bright fruit character of Tempranillo while adding just enough structure and spice to make a lasting impression. James Suckling awarded it 91 points. At this price, it is one of the most reliable everyday values in all of Spain.

The nose is inviting and expressive: ripe cherry, plum, dried herbs, and a whisper of vanilla from oak. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with well-integrated tannins, refreshing acidity, and a juicy, fruit-forward finish with hints of white pepper and warm spice. It delivers the kind of easy, honest pleasure that only a great Crianza can — and it drinks beautifully right now.

James Suckling 91 — "Spicy rendition of Cune Crianza, but as always this is fruity, with lots of cherries, plums and a touch of white pepper. Juicy and bright, with some restrained fruit sweetness. Very fine-grained, juicy and consistent." (Vintage 2021). 

Oscar Garcia, Wine Buyer, 67Wine — "A text-book Crianza from Bodegas CVNE. Aromas of red fruits and dried herbs. Medium-bodied with well integrated tannins and just enough grip to make a good impression. One of my personal go-to crianzas for every day enjoyment."

• Producer: Bodegas CVNE, Rioja, Spain
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Varietal: Tempranillo
• Aging: 12 months in American and French oak, plus bottle aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cherry, plum, dried herbs, vanilla, white pepper, warm spice
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb chops, roasted chicken, hearty stews, aged Manchego, rich pasta dishes

A 91-point Crianza at an honest price — CUNE is the benchmark for what everyday Rioja can be.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | The nose brings aromas of vanilla bean, freshly brewed coffee, Bing cherry, and wild strawberry. Raspberries join more strawberries and cherries on the palate, but earthy undertones and chalky tannins ground things and create a substantial mouthfeel.

James Suckling 91 Points | A spicy wine with aromas of licorice, dried flowers, bright red cherries, violets, and blood oranges. Light-bodied, soft and extracted, with crisp acidity and a chalky finish.

Winemaker Description

Pèppoli 2024 is a bright ruby red. The nose is vibrant and expressive, offering fresh notes of cherries, raspberry jelly, and pomegranate juice with floral sensations of violets and geraniums. The palate is lively and dynamic: an energetic entry leads to a juicy, flavorful mid-palate followed by a long, savory finish characterized by soft, sweet tannins.

About Antinori & Pèppoli

The Antinori family has been committed to the art of winemaking for over six centuries, since 1385 when Giovanni di Piero Antinori became a member of the Florentine Winemakers’ Guild. The Pèppoli estate, located 5 kilometers northeast of the Tenuta Tignanello estate, spans 100 hectares in the heart of Chianti Classico DOCG. Its vineyards produce a Sangiovese-led blend celebrated for its full fruit expression, characteristic floral aromas, and faithful representation of the Chianti Classico territory.

Food Pairings

A natural companion for pasta with tomato-based sauces, grilled meats, roasted lamb, and aged Italian cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino.

Justin Vineyard is one of Paso Robles' founding estates, established in 1981 in the Adelaida Hills — where calcareous soils, hot days, and dramatically cool nights create ideal conditions for Bordeaux-style Cabernet Sauvignon. Justin has become the benchmark producer of the appellation, crafting wines of genuine depth, balance, and approachability that rival Napa at a fraction of the price. The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is aged 14 months in traditional small oak barrels, built with the same care as the finest traditionally crafted Bordeaux-style wines.

The nose is aromatic and inviting: red raspberry and black cherry laced with vanilla, soft herbs, and warming spices. On the palate, it is dry, moderately full-bodied, and supple — bursting with bright red plum and ripe cherry, with velvety, well-integrated tannins and nuanced elements of caramel, toasted coconut, fennel, and sage. The long finish turns pleasantly savory with floral notes and a hint of pepper. Remarkably balanced and complex, with a fresh palate that invites another sip.

"Lush aromas of cherry, cinnamon, and candied pecan show on the inviting nose. The palate is silky and generous with ample cherry, vanilla, and spicecake flavors. This is a deeply satisfying and bold Cab at a very fair price." — Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points (Vintage 2023)

Winemaker Notes

Bright ruby red with moderate concentration. Red raspberry and black cherry on the nose with vanilla, soft herbs, and warming spices. Dry and supple on the palate with red plum, ripe cherry, caramel, toasted coconut, fennel, and sage. Long, savory finish with floral notes and a hint of pepper. Pairs well with filet mignon, ribeye, grilled chicken, aged Cheddar, and Manchego.

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins, 67 Wine Buyer: A juicy, joyous organic blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that’s bright, perky, full of life and begging for food. Aromas of spiced cherries on the nose with a medium body and an earthy note that adds complexity. Balanced acidity and softly tamed tannins lead to a cheerful, food-friendly finish. This is a perfect pizza, pasta, weekday red that satisfies without breaking the bank!

Winemaker Notes

A versatile, young red wine with ruby red color and a bouquet of ripe cherries, blueberries, and sweet spices. Medium-bodied, fruity and smooth with a long, lingering dry finish reminiscent of undergrowth with an underlying hint of menthol. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.

About the Wine

The Avignonesi Cantaloro Toscana Rosso 2024 is the estate’s "everyday" super-Tuscan blend and one of the best values for certified biodynamic wine in Italy. Produced under the direction of Virginie Saverys, who steered Avignonesi toward total sustainability, the Cantaloro is designed to be fresh, versatile, and accessible immediately upon release.

Tasting & Pairings

Spiced cherries, blueberries, sweet spice, earth, and menthol. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and soft tannins. Serve at cellar temperature.

• Pizza, lasagna, or pasta Bolognese — the reason this wine exists.
• Grilled pork chops or Tuscan tagliata — sliced steak with arugula, a classic match.
• Roasted Mediterranean vegetables or lentil stews — the earthy notes complement hearty vegetarian fare.

Decoy by Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023

Decoy is the everyday expression of Duckhorn Wine Company — one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated names — and it delivers the Duckhorn philosophy of quality and approachability at an honest price. Sourced from premium California vineyards, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon benefits from one of the state’s most exceptional recent vintages. The season began with abundant winter rains that revitalized drought-stressed soils, followed by a cool spring that delayed ripening and extended hang time. Harvest ran from September 7th through November 9th — a long, carefully managed campaign with alternating heat waves and cooling trends that built exceptional depth, texture, and rich color in the fruit. The result is a Cabernet of remarkable quality for the price.

The color is a deep, alluring ruby. The nose is immediately inviting: black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spices that draw you in from the first pour. On the palate, silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture frame voluptuous dark berry flavors, with barrel spice adding nuance and complexity to a long, lush, and satisfying finish. This is California Cabernet done right — rich, balanced, and built for the table.

The Wine Enthusiast 93 | Dark berry and plum aromas on the nose of this bottling are cut by nutmeg, cola and bittersweet cocoa touches. The palate is quite dry with flavors of dark-chocolate flake and oregano, as dark berry fills in the fruit tones. A very classic California Cab. (Vintage 2023). 

“Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spices. Silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture — a long, lush finish.” — Duckhorn Winemaker

• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Wine Company, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Rich, supple, approachable California Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, blackberry, mocha, blueberry, baking spice, barrel spice, silky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, burgers, aged cheddar, BBQ

Duckhorn quality at an everyday price — Decoy 2023 is the California Cabernet you’ll reach for again and again.

Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023 750ml

Josh Cellars was founded by Joseph Carr as a heartfelt tribute to his father, Josh — a hardworking man who inspired a lifetime of dedication and craft. Today, Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is the flagship wine of the brand and one of California’s most beloved everyday reds. A quintessential Modern California Cabernet — approachable, fruit-forward, and smooth — the 2023 vintage showcases the careful selection of grapes from California’s finest growing regions, crafted to deliver bold character with balanced acidity and silky tannins that make every occasion feel special.

Deep ruby in color, the 2023 opens with aromas of blackberry, toasted hazelnut, and cinnamon, complemented by hints of vanilla and toasted oak. The palate is rich and smooth — dark fruit, plum, and blackberry with a refined vanilla and oak character — leading to a balanced, satisfying finish that is as versatile at the dinner table as it is enjoyable on its own.

“A quintessential Modern California Cabernet — fruit-forward, smooth, and crafted as a tribute to the hardworking spirit of Josh Carr.”

• Producer: Josh Cellars, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, plum, toasted hazelnut, cinnamon, vanilla, toasted oak, smooth tannins
• Best Paired With: Well-seasoned beef, grilled pork chops, lamb, Bolognese, aged Cheddar or Gouda, dark chocolate desserts

California’s most approachable Cabernet Sauvignon — Josh Cellars 2023 is a wine built for sharing, celebrating, and everyday enjoyment.

Ridge Three Valleys Sonoma County Zinfandel Red Blend 2023

Ridge Vineyards is one of California’s most iconic and respected wineries — a benchmark producer whose Monte Bello Cabernet has competed with the world’s greatest wines, and whose commitment to traditional winemaking is unmatched. Three Valleys, made since 2001, is Ridge’s Sonoma County field blend: a multi-vineyard, multi-appellation wine sourced from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Russian River Valley, crafted in the exact same way as all of Ridge’s wines — open-top tanks, native fermentations, and real oak. It’s meant to represent a vintage more than a location, and the 2023 is one of the finest in recent memory.

The 2023 blend is 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro, and 2% Alicante Bouschet, aged 12 months in 19% new air-dried American oak. Floral, complex, and less rustic than usual — the vintage showing classic charm and elegance. A popular by-the-glass pour at restaurants across the country. Order it when you see it.

Aromas of confit cherries, licorice, blackberry, baking spices, wild berries, Italian plums, and lavender. The palate is full-bodied yet light on its feet — expressive raspberry and blueberry, licorice, pepper, and chargrilled herbs — with chalky tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, spicy, generous finish.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck — 93 Points

“Floral, complex and less rustic than usual, the vintage showing classic charm and elegance… A popular by-the-glass pour, order it when you see it.”

Wine Spectator — 93 Points

“Generous and robust yet retains a sense of polish, with expressive raspberry and blueberry flavors highlighted by licorice and pepper. Drink now through 2034.”

James Suckling — 93 Points

“Aromas of confit cherries, licorice, blackberry bush, baking spices and violets. Full-bodied with a rounded mouthfeel and firmly framed tannins that end in a lush and generous finish.”

Wine Advocate — 91 Points

“Layered aromas of wild berries, Italian plums, chargrilled meats, resinous herbs and lavender. Full-bodied with highly concentrated flavors, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity. Long, spicy finish.”

Track Record

Three Valleys has scored 92 points or above for five consecutive vintages: 94 pts Decanter (2022) | 92 pts WS (2021) | 93 pts WS (2020) | 93 pts WS (2019).

Food Pairings

Grilled lamb, BBQ ribs, braised short rib, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta with meat sauce.

Blend: 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro, 2% Alicante Bouschet
Appellation: Sonoma County, California
Vintage: 2023
Aging: 12 months, 19% new air-dried American oak
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 pts JD | 93 pts WS | 93 pts JS | 91 pts WA

Château Greysac Cru Bourgeois Supérieur — Médoc, Bordeaux 2019

Château Greysac has a remarkable story. Built in the 1700s in the Médoc hamlet of Begadan, north of St. Estèphe, the estate was purchased in 2012 by Jean Guyon — a tastemaker, designer, and visionary who moved in the circles of fine art and couture fashion. Guyon arrived with a clear objective: to craft wines with the same care and attention to detail as a Cru Classé, but at far more approachable prices. He modernized the winery, overhauled vineyard practices with sustainability in mind, and by 2018 the estate was classified as Cru Bourgeois Supérieur. As the largest landowner in the Médoc, Guyon controls quality and consistency that few Bordelaise châteaux can claim — which is why, since 2015, Greysac has been the persistent #1 Médoc over $20 in the United States.

The 2019 — widely regarded as one of Bordeaux's finest vintages of the last decade — is a seamless, beautifully structured expression of the estate. The nose is plush and enticing: blackcurrant, blackberry, dark cherry, cedar, graphite, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it's medium-to-full-bodied with sappy black fruit, fine depth, smooth structured tannins, and a pure, caressing finish that belies its backbone. Aged 12 months in 50% one-year-old French oak and 50% tank, with malolactic fermentation in oak and three months of lees stirring.

"Seamless nose with plush black fruits and a hint of spice. Fabulous fruit on the palate with great balancing acidity and fine-grained tannins. Persistent finish." — Decanter, 96 Points

• Producer: Château Greysac, Begadan, Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Supérieur
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Médoc AOC
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Vineyard: 68 ha on clay-gravel hilltop; avg. 35-year-old vines; sustainably farmed
• Aging: 12 months, 50% one-year-old French oak / 50% tank; MLF in oak; 3 months lees stirring
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: Decanter 96 | Vinous 91 | Jeb Dunnuck 90
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, blackberry, dark cherry, cedar, graphite, smooth tannins, persistent finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, duck confit, aged hard cheeses, classic Bordelaise cuisine

The #1 Médoc over $20 in the US — Cru Bourgeois Supérieur quality at an approachable price, in one of Bordeaux's greatest recent vintages.

Erath Pinot Noir — Oregon 2023

Erath is one of Oregon's founding Pinot Noir estates, established by Dick Erath in the Dundee Hills in 1969 — a pioneer who helped prove that the Willamette Valley could produce world-class Pinot Noir. Now part of the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates family, Erath continues to craft approachable, terroir-driven Oregon Pinot Noir that delivers genuine quality at an everyday price. The Oregon bottling draws from a broad network of cool-climate vineyards across the state, capturing the freshness, bright acidity, and red fruit character that define Oregon Pinot at its most accessible and food-friendly.

Bright cranberry in the glass with flashes of scarlet, the nose is inviting and expressive: black cherry and cola unfold gracefully, complemented by a subtle hint of toasted oak. On the palate, vibrant acidity brings energy and lift to layers of strawberry compote and gentle baking spice. The finish is soft and effortless — a harmonious balance between delicacy and plush, fruit-driven charm.

"Aromas of black cherry and cola unfold gracefully, complemented by a subtle hint of toasted oak. On the palate, vibrant acidity brings energy and lift to layers of strawberry compote and gentle baking spice. The finish is soft and effortless." — Erath Winemaker

• Producer: Erath Winery, Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Founded: 1969 by Dick Erath
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Oregon AVA
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Closure: Screwcap
• Style: Light-to-Medium Bodied, Bright, Fruit-Driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, cola, strawberry compote, baking spice, toasted oak, vibrant acidity, soft finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Roast duck with cherry glaze, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, stuffed peppers, soft cheeses
• Serve: Slightly chilled, 58–62°F

Oregon's most trusted everyday Pinot Noir — Erath delivers cool-climate character, screwcap convenience, and genuine quality under $25.

About Santa Cristina

Produced by the historic Santa Cristina estate of the renowned Antinori family, this Cabernet Sauvignon highlights the richness and approachability of fruit grown in the warm vineyards of Tuscany. Established in 1946 near Cortona, Santa Cristina has long been known for crafting wines that combine Tuscan character with international grape varieties.

Tasting Notes — Vintage 2024

The 2024 vintage opens with expressive aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, complemented by notes of violet, sweet spice, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, smooth and medium-to-full bodied with soft tannins supporting flavors of black fruit, subtle herbs, and gentle oak spice. The finish is round and approachable — enjoyable on its own or at the table.

Food Pairings

Versatile and food-friendly — pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta with rich sauces, roasted vegetables, and aged cheeses.

Product Details

• Producer: Antinori / Santa Cristina
• Region: Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2024
• Style: Medium-to-full bodied, fruit-forward Tuscan Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

La Petite Lune Rouge — Graves, Bordeaux 2022

La Petite Lune is the entry-level expression from Clos des Lunes — a project founded by the owners of Domaine de Chevalier, one of Pessac-Léognan's most celebrated Grand Cru Classé estates, in collaboration with Stéphane Dérenoncourt, widely regarded as one of the top winemakers in France. The vineyards sit a stone's throw from Chevalier's famed plots in Graves, and the wine is built on a special selection of vineyard lots handpicked by Dérenoncourt and vinified by Bernard's team at Domaine de Chevalier. The aim: a wine that is slightly more modern in styling than a classic Bordeaux, with an excellent quality-to-price ratio — and at under $20, it delivers exactly that.

The 2022 is a blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc. The nose is pretty and inviting — blackberry, dried tobacco, and herbal notes with a classic Graves character. On the palate, it's medium-bodied and mouth-filling with generous fruit, supple tannins, and a delicious, clean fruit finish. Approachable now and built for easy enjoyment.

"Founded by the owners of Domaine de Chevalier and Stéphane Dérenoncourt, one of the top winemakers in France — a Bordeaux of excellent quality-price ratio." — Clos des Lunes

• Producer: Clos des Lunes (Domaine de Chevalier & Stéphane Dérenoncourt), Graves, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Bordeaux AOC
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, dried tobacco, herbal notes, medium-bodied, supple tannins, clean fruit finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb, roast chicken, duck, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses

Grand Cru Classé pedigree and Dérenoncourt's touch at an everyday Bordeaux price — the smartest under-$20 red in the shop.

Antinori Il Bruciato Tenuta Guado al Tasso — Bolgheri 2024

The Antinori family has been making wine in Tuscany for over 600 years, and Tenuta Guado al Tasso is their crown jewel on the Bolgheri coast — situated near the birthplace of the Super Tuscan movement, where the moderating influence of the Tyrrhenian Sea produces wines of remarkable freshness, structure, and Mediterranean character. Il Bruciato is the estate’s second wine: a Cabernet Sauvignon-led Bordeaux blend that delivers the elegance and complexity of the appellation at an approachable price point. One of Italy’s most consistent and beloved Super Tuscans, and an outstanding value from one of Tuscany’s greatest estates.

The 2024 vintage shows an intense, deep ruby color. The nose is expressive and detailed: ripe blackberry, dark cherry, cassis, wildflowers, thyme, sweet spice, and a lifted hint of liquorice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with polished tannins, a rounded chocolate-tinged texture, fresh coastal acidity, and a long, savory, fruit-driven finish with umami depth. Approachable now, with the structure to develop further over 3–5 years.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 — “Expressive and detailed, with aromas of wildflowers, thyme, ripe cherry, and subtle gamey earthiness. Rounded, chocolate-tinged texture balanced by refreshing acidity. Polished and approachable.”

Wine Advocate 90 — “Ripe, chewy darkness with thick flavors of plummy fruit, blackberry and a savory note reminiscent of tomatoes on the vine. Soft in texture with a medium- to full-bodied mouthfeel and a gentle dustiness from fully-integrated tannins.”

67 Wine — “Il Bruciato is the benchmark entry into the world of Bolgheri — the elegance and complexity of a great Super Tuscan estate at a price that makes it an everyday pleasure.”

• Producer: Marchesi Antinori, Tenuta Guado al Tasso, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Bolgheri DOC
• Blend: 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 18% Merlot, 8% Syrah, 7% Petit Verdot
• Style: Super Tuscan
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, dark cherry, cassis, wildflowers, thyme, sweet spice, liquorice, chocolate, savory umami finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Serve: 64–68°F
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, lamb chops, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino, hearty pasta

Six centuries of Antinori mastery, one exceptional Bolgheri estate — Il Bruciato is the Super Tuscan that belongs on every table.

James Suckling 90 Points

"Rich yet lifted, offering dark berries, citrus peel, sweet spices and crushed stones on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied and intense, with crunchy acidity and firm tannins shaping a gently exposed structure."

Winemaker Notes

100% Montepulciano grape from the hills of Abruzzo, Italy. Medium purple-red color with violet hues. The nose opens with red berries and spicy nuances of white pepper. On the palate, it develops harmoniously between fruity sweetness and savory freshness, with gentle tannins and refreshing acidity leading to a smooth finish.

About the Wine

Cantina Zaccagnini is one of Italy’s best-known and best-loved producers of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, combining traditional winemaking with a modern approach. The iconic twig tied around the bottle’s neck is their signature — a nod to the vineyard and a mark of authenticity. This is an everyday Italian red that consistently over-delivers for the price.

Tasting & Pairings

Red cherry, plum, black cherry, white pepper, and subtle earthy notes. Medium-bodied with gentle tannins and refreshing acidity. Serve slightly chilled (55–60°F) for a fresh, easygoing red.

• Pizza and pasta with meat sauce — the classic pairing, and the reason this wine exists.
• Grilled meats or charcuterie — the fruit and acidity cut through richness beautifully.
• Aged cheeses or mushroom dishes — the earthy notes and gentle tannins complement savory flavors.

Château La Vaisinerie — Puisseguin Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux 2019

Puisseguin Saint-Émilion is one of Bordeaux's four Saint-Émilion satellites — appellations that share the Saint-Émilion name and its clay-limestone terroir, but offer wines of genuine character at a fraction of the price of their more famous neighbor. Château La Vaisinerie is a standout estate in the appellation, producing a Merlot-dominant blend (90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc) that earned four separate critic endorsements in the 2019 vintage — one of Bordeaux's finest of the last decade. The result is a wine of real refinement and balance that consistently punches above its price point.

The 2019 pours a deep ruby. The nose is expressive and layered — blue fruits, blackberry, black cherry, candied violets, sweet tobacco, crushed stones, and floral notes with a mineral undertow. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, pure, and impeccably balanced: supple tannins, fine acidity, a pretty core of fruit, and a sensual, velvety-smooth finish. Already drinking beautifully with a carafe; will continue to develop through 2029.

"Blue fruits and cola cubes on the nose. Linear and direct, powerful but restrained, with a core of dark, juicy fruits and a mineral undertow giving freshness and a velvety-smooth texture to the tannins. One I want another glass of." — Georgina Hindle, Decanter, 90 Points

• Producer: Château La Vaisinerie, Puisseguin Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC
• Blend: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: Decanter 90 | James Suckling 90 | Jeb Dunnuck | Vinous (Neal Martin)
• Drink: Now–2029 (decant if opening today)
• Tasting Notes: Blue fruits, blackberry, black cherry, candied violets, sweet tobacco, crushed stone, supple tannins, sensual finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, grilled ribeye, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses

Four-critic Right Bank Bordeaux at a satellite appellation price — Saint-Émilion terroir, 2019 vintage, and Merlot-driven elegance in every glass.

Louis Jadot Beaujolais Villages — Beaujolais, Burgundy 2024

Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy's most celebrated négociants, and their Beaujolais Villages is the house's calling card for everyday drinking done right. Sourced from the granite-rich hillside vineyards of the Beaujolais Villages appellation — a step above basic Beaujolais — this 100% Gamay is vinified to highlight the grape's natural exuberance: bright acidity, low tannins, and an irresistible cascade of red and black fruit. Chill it for 20 minutes and it becomes one of the most versatile, crowd-pleasing bottles on the table.

The nose opens with ripe strawberry, raspberry, black plum, rosehip, and white blossoms — fresh, fragrant, and immediately inviting. On the palate, the wine is juicy and medium-bodied with firm red and black fruit, a lively acidity, and a clean, fruit-forward finish. It is the kind of wine that disappears fast — and for good reason.

Wine Enthusiast — "A good, hearty and muscular Beaujolais that would pair with grilled vegetables and meats. Nose of black plum, rosehip, strawberry and blossom. On the palate the wine is firm with red and black fruit predominating." (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Louis Jadot, Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Beaujolais Villages AOC
• Region: Beaujolais, Burgundy, France
• Varietal: 100% Gamay
• Style: Juicy, fruit-forward, low-tannin red wine
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Strawberry, raspberry, black plum, rosehip, white blossoms, bright acidity, clean finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled salmon, roast chicken, grilled vegetables, charcuterie, soft cheeses

A benchmark Beaujolais Villages at an honest price — Louis Jadot's Villages bottling is the go-to for effortless, food-friendly French red wine any night of the week.

Marqués de Riscal is one of Spain's most storied estates, founded in 1858 in the village of Elciego in Rioja Alavesa. Elevated vineyards, meticulous farming across 540 owned hectares, and a cellar housing every vintage back to the 1860s define a house built on permanence and precision. The Frank Gehry–designed hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant on-site speak to the same ambition: world-class in every dimension.

The 2021 Reserva is a blend of Tempranillo and 3% Graciano, aged 20 months in American oak. The nose opens with licorice, black cherry, cinnamon, and black pepper — expressive and layered, with a balsamic freshness that keeps everything lifted. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet polished, with silky tannins, ripe red and black fruit, and a long, persistent finish with gentle spice. Classic Riscal: structured, elegant, and built to age another 10–15 years.

"The winery's flagship wine, the 2021 Reserva has a highly appealing spicy balsamic character and an undertone of freshness... rich in red and black cherry fruit that's textured and layered throughout supple, silky tannins. This is a classic, ready to go another 10-15 years." — Jeb Dunnuck, 92 Points. (Vintage 2021).

"A combination of licorice, blackberries and cherries on the nose... The medium- to full-bodied palate is incisive with polished, focused tannins and a clean, chiseled finish." — James Suckling, 92 Points. (Vintage 2021). 

"Ripe mulberry and boysenberry fruit is accented by wild thyme, warm spices, mineral and mandarin orange peel in this well-balanced red, with light, taut tannins." — Wine Spectator, 90 Points. (Vintage 2021). 

Winemaker Notes

Intense black-cherry color with good depth and barely any signs of evolution. Very expressive aromas of licorice, cinnamon, and black pepper with a subtle hint of oak, balanced by ripe, concentrated fruit. Fresh and easy to drink, with good backbone, polished tannins, and a long, balsamic finish.

Pairs well with ham, mild cheeses, casseroles, bean and pulse dishes, poultry, red meat, grills, and roasts.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
"The nose opens umami, sanguine and earthy, with damp soil, pepper and mixed wild herbs, then presents sweet, tiny wild berries crushed underfoot. The palate first leans into the fruit, with sweet, ripe blackberries and blueberries, before finishing off with earth and pepper."
Best Buy

Winemaker Description

Hints of ripe fruit, cinnamon, and licorice and an intense and harmonious taste allow for a fresher wine, with delicate tannins and easy to drink style.

Product Details

• Producer: Tenuta Rapitalà
• Region: Terre Siciliane IGT, Sicily, Italy
• Grape: Nero d’Avola
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Medium-bodied, fresh, high-altitude Sicilian red
• Format: 750ml

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia — Toscana IGT 2023

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia is the approachable entry point into the world of Tenuta dell’Ornellaia — one of Tuscany’s most celebrated estates and a cornerstone of the Bolgheri appellation — and the 2023 vintage is its most joyful and expressive release in years. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, raised in used Ornellaia barriques and concrete for around 10 months, this wine captures the estate’s signature elegance and precision in a bottle built for early enjoyment without sacrificing depth or character. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 93 points, calling it “very elegant with a joyful ease.”

The nose is fruity and fresh: candied flowers, crushed raspberries, red apples, dark cherry compote, and a waft of balsamic herbs with fresh stony earth. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied — silky, crunchy, and vibrant, with a bright streak of raspberry coulis brought together by fresh acidity and a breezy, polished finish. Classy, aromatic, and built to drink beautifully from 2025 through 2035.

Jeb Dunnuck 93 • Decanter 91 • Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 90 — “A total delight. Fresh, aromatic and vibrant — Ornellaia’s blend delivers the goods in an affordable package.”

• Producer: Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot
• Vinification: Aged ~10 months in used Ornellaia barriques and concrete
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Candied flowers, raspberry, red apple, dark cherry, balsamic herbs, stony earth, silky finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2035
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roasted duck, truffle pizza, aged Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano

Elegant, vibrant, and unmistakably Ornellaia — Le Volte is the benchmark for what a Super Tuscan entry point can be.

The Pinot Project Pinot Noir — California 2022

The Pinot Project was born from a simple conviction: that great Pinot Noir doesn't have to cost a fortune. Handcrafted from premium vineyards across California's most celebrated coastal regions — Monterey and San Benito on the Central Coast, and Suisun Valley in the north — the wine draws on a diversity of soils and climates to achieve remarkable balance and depth. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and carefully destemmed to express bright, pure fruit while maintaining the freshness that defines the variety. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points.

The nose opens with vibrant aromas of Bing cherry, dark plum, cinnamon, potpourri, and Tahitian vanilla bean. On the palate, fresh strawberry, dried cranberry, raspberry cream, white grapefruit zest, and dried bay leaf unfold with medium body, fine-grained integrated tannins, and a dry, mouthwatering finish. This is coastal California Pinot Noir at its most honest and approachable.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — "Vibrant, bright, and beautifully balanced."

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points | Vibrant aromas of Bing cherry and dark plum, enhanced by cinnamon, potpourri, and Tahitian vanilla bean. Fresh strawberry, dried cranberry, raspberry cream, white grapefruit zest, and dried bay leaf on the palate. Medium-bodied with fine-grained, integrated tannins and a dry, mouthwatering finish.

• Producer: The Pinot Project, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: California (Monterey, San Benito, Suisun Valley)
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vinification: Destemmed, harvested at optimal ripeness
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Bing cherry, dark plum, cinnamon, vanilla, strawberry, cranberry, raspberry, grapefruit zest, bay leaf
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2026
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses

91 points from Wine Enthusiast — The Pinot Project delivers coastal California Pinot Noir with genuine character at an unbeatable price.

Angeline Pinot Noir — California 2024

Angeline delivers everything you want from a California Pinot Noir at an everyday price — bright, fruit-forward, and immediately approachable, with enough structure to pair beautifully with food. The 2024 vintage is fresh and vivid, showcasing the best of California’s sun-drenched growing season.

The nose opens with lively black raspberry, fresh pomegranate, and wild blueberry, layered with hints of sassafras and subtle licorice. On the palate, toasted oak and an earthy backbone add depth, while grippy tannins give the wine a satisfying structure that lingers through a clean, fruit-driven finish.

• Producer: Angeline Winery, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Size: 750ml
• Closure: Screw cap
• Tasting Notes: Black raspberry, pomegranate, wild blueberry, sassafras, licorice, toasted oak
• Best Paired With: Salmon, roasted chicken, mushroom dishes, charcuterie

A reliable, crowd-pleasing Pinot Noir that over-delivers at its price point — perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Winemaker Description

The deep ruby color indicates a luxe complexity, while aromas of black cherry, cassis, and rich earth are abundant in this classic Cabernet Sauvignon. On entry, currants and black plums generously lead to a plush mouthfeel, with ample tannins carrying the fruit to a long, lingering finish. Aged 12 months in 1-year-old American oak barrels, developing notes of baking spices, nutmeg, and hints of caramel.

Expert Review —  Current Vintage 2023, Prior Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast - 90 Points - (Tonya Pitts) (Vintage 2023) Pronounced nose, with a focused fruit core, notes of Black plum, black licorice, molasses, vanilla bean, and violets. Fresh youthful blackberries on the palate, dried herbs, bittersweet chocolate, espresso, and grippy tannins to finish. Aerate and enjoy mid-week.  —

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Vintage 2022)
"For $11, this California Cab packs bags of flavor. Find notes of black cherry, plum and currant, cinnamon, nutmeg, fennel, crushed violets and toasted wood alongside mouthcoating tannins and modest acidity."

Food Pairings

Pairs well with rib-eye steak with blue cheese butter, roasted eggplant with provolone, and dark chocolate mousse with fresh berries.

Product Details

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards
• Region: California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 12 months in American oak
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, plush, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

About Castello di Volpaia

Volpaia is one of the most stunning estates in Italy, located in a fortified medieval village in Radda in Chianti. Because the vineyards are among the highest in the Chianti Classico zone — up to 600 meters — the wines have a cool-climate elegance that sets them apart from the heavier, more muscular Chiantis found in the valleys.

Winemaker Description

The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. A well-structured wine with a fruity finish. The vintage began with a warm winter with little rain. May and June were cold with heavy rains that caused several problems with downy mildew throughout Italy. In July temperatures rose significantly, and the hot, dry summer was followed by late August rains that allowed the grapes to complete ripening beautifully.

Expert Reviews

Decanter — 91 Points (Michaela Morris)
"A very pretty, classy wine that captures the essence of Radda in its bright, lifted personality. Crushed flowers, chalk, mint, white pepper and cranberry all grace this perfumed, lithe Chianti Classico."

Tony Wood Italian Wine — 95 Points
"Bright ruby red with purple undertones. Amazing aroma of spring flowers, violet, petal, sweet red fruits, liquorice, cedar, dry forest floor, spice. Creamy, elegant, fantastic length and balance. A total winner!"

Product Details

• Producer: Castello di Volpaia
• Region: Chianti Classico DOCG, Radda in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Sangiovese
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Altitude: Up to 600 meters
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml

Producer Notes

With the desire to bring the best of Tuscany to wine lovers worldwide, Ruffino has contributed significantly to the fine image Italian winemaking holds on the international scene today. The Riserva Ducale Tan Label is their benchmark Chianti Classico Riserva — a wine of great complexity that expresses authentic Sangiovese character. Intense aromas of cherry, plum, and violet open the bouquet, fading gracefully into tobacco, chocolate, cinnamon, and spicy black pepper. Full-bodied and powerful on the palate with elegant tannins perfectly supported by good acidity. The finish is long and complex, with sweet tobacco and powerful notes of plum and clove.

Food Pairings

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina or grilled lamb chops
• Slow-braised short ribs or wild boar ragù
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Toscano
• Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta

Château Larose Trintaudon — Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois Supérieur 2019

Château Larose Trintaudon is one of the Haut-Médoc’s most celebrated Cru Bourgeois estates — elevated to Cru Bourgeois Supérieur as of the 2018 vintage, a distinction that reflects the consistent quality and ambition of this property. The 2019 vintage, one of Bordeaux’s finest in a generation, is a textbook expression of understated Médoc elegance: structured, fruit-driven, and built to age.

The nose opens with blueberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry, layered with sweet tobacco, moss, and violet edges. On the palate, the wine is fleshy and full-bodied with chewy, polished tannins, cassis, bitter plum, and a savory, mineral-tinged finish that lingers with chalky precision. Give it two to three years and it will reward handsomely.

James Suckling 93 • Decanter 90 • Wine Spectator

• Producer: Château Larose Trintaudon, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux
• Vintage: 2019
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, Haut-Médoc
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blueberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, tobacco, cassis, chalky minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2023–2032+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, aged hard cheeses

A critically acclaimed Haut-Médoc at a Cru Bourgeois price — one of the best value Bordeaux reds in the cellar.

Meiomi Pinot Noir — California 2023

Meiomi is one of California’s most celebrated Pinot Noir producers, built on a singular vision: to capture the best of the California coast in a single, seamlessly blended wine. The name comes from the Coast Miwok and Wappo peoples’ word for “coastline,” and the wine lives up to it — sourced from three of California’s most prized coastal appellations: Sonoma Coast, Santa Barbara County, and Monterey County. Each vineyard is chosen for its ability to express the best of its respective terroir, then carefully blended to achieve balance, complexity, and richness of flavor. The 2023 is aged six months in French oak barrels, adding structure and depth that is seldom seen in a Pinot Noir at this price point.

The color is a luminous, deep ruby with violet hues. The nose is lush and immediately appealing: fresh strawberry, blackberry, and boysenberry, layered with toasted mocha and vanilla from the oak aging. On the palate, it is silky and medium-to-full-bodied — juicy red and dark fruit, a touch of toasty oak, and a smooth, lingering finish that is quintessentially coastal California Pinot Noir. Bolder and richer than a traditional Burgundian Pinot, this is the crowd-pleasing, jammy style that has made Meiomi one of the most recognized Pinot Noirs in the country.

• Producer: Meiomi Wines, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California — Sonoma Coast, Santa Barbara County, Monterey County
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Aging: 6 months in French oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bold, jammy, fruit-forward coastal California Pinot Noir
• Tasting Notes: Strawberry, blackberry, boysenberry, toasted mocha, vanilla, silky tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled salmon, roasted duck, lamb, tomato-based pastas, mushroom dishes, brie

California’s most beloved coastal Pinot Noir — Meiomi 2023 is the bottle that never disappoints.

J. Lohr Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon — Paso Robles 2022

J. Lohr is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estate vineyards across Paso Robles, Monterey, and Napa Valley. Seven Oaks is their flagship Paso Robles Cabernet — named for the majestic valley oaks that shade the estate — and it has become one of the most decorated value Cabernets in California, consistently earning 90+ point scores from the country’s top critics. Paso Robles delivers the warm days and cool nights that produce Cabernet of exceptional ripeness and natural balance, and the 2022 vintage was no exception. Ripe fruit aromas of black cherry and currant are accented by notes of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla from J. Lohr’s authentic barrel aging program — a winemaking approach that has defined Seven Oaks for decades.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is rich and inviting: black cherry, currants, roasted plums, sage, cloves, and damp earth, with a spicy, toasty complexity that punches well above its price point. On the palate, it is full-bodied and plush — big, juicy red fruit, creamy black cherry, vanilla, purple plum, and black currant, with wet clay, cocoa, mint, and mace adding impressive depth. The tannins are softly textured and velvety, leading to a long, gratifying finish. Three critics, three 90+ scores. At this price, it is one of the great values in California Cabernet.

Expert Reviews

The Tasting Panel — 92 Points
“Streamlined, with velvety tannins, this balanced red surpasses expectations for its price point. Creamy notes of black cherry, vanilla, and purple plum bathe the mouth, giving way to a delectable finish of spiced black currant.”

James Suckling — 90 Points
“Currants, sage, roasted plums and cloves on the nose of this rich and spicy red. Full-bodied, plush and toasty, with ripe tannins.”

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points
“Damp earth aromas lead quickly into sharp yet ripe cherry aromas. Likable flavors of black cherry greet the palate, as wet clay, cocoa, mint and mace flavors add impressive complexity at this price point.”

• Producer: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Paso Robles
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Full-bodied, plush, value-driven Paso Robles Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, currants, roasted plum, vanilla, hazelnut, cocoa, mint, velvety tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2028
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, New York strip, lamb, mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, BBQ

Three critics, three 90+ scores — J. Lohr Seven Oaks 2022 is Paso Robles Cabernet at its most generous.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Bernie & Dorothy, Paulo & Barbara, and Annie — Follow the Drinker® (August 2025)
This is just a terrific wine. We drank it with burgers, roast chicken, and hanger steaks — and it just worked so well. 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah, the wine fills your mouth with black fruit and cherry-like flavors and does it all in a gentle way. Finishes absolutely clean, fresh, and mouthwatering. Everyone enjoyed drinking it.

Winemaker Description

Ruby red, nicely bright. Fresh cherry and blackberry on the nose with notes of cracked pepper. Dark berry and touches of anise on the palate, with sweet cherries and raspberry. The quality of winemaking is evident — a Parisian brasserie favorite.

Product Details

• Producer: Domaine Pélaquié
• Region: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Blend: 50% Grenache, 50% Syrah
• Vintage: 2023
• Drinking Window: Now–2030
• Format: 750ml

Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico — Tuscany 2022

Fèlsina is the benchmark estate of Castelnuovo Berardenga, the sun-drenched southeastern corner of Chianti Classico where the zone spills toward Siena. The 2022 Berardenga is immediate and effusive — a wine that wears its terroir openly: Maritime pine, Mediterranean scrub, wild broom, and ripe strawberry, all framed by the estate's signature rocky minerality. Antonio Galloni called it "an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga" and awarded it 91 points. At $29.99, it is one of the most compelling values in Chianti Classico.

The nose is bright and expressive: black cherry, wild berries, leather, warm spice, tobacco, and dried herbs. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine tannins, juicy berry fruit, and a lift of spice that carries through to a long, tactile finish. Balanced, vibrant, and built to drink beautifully now through 2033.

Expert Reviews

Vinous 91 — Antonio Galloni writes: "Superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Black cherry, leather, spice, tobacco, menthol and dried herbs inform this potent, super-classic Chianti Classico. This is beautifully done, especially for the year. Drinking 2024–2037."

James Suckling 92 — "A well-balanced, seductive and lively red with aromas of forest berries, red currants, warm herbs and some crushed peppercorns. It's medium-bodied with fine tannins. Juicy berry character with a lift of spices bringing energy and vitality on the palate and onto the tactile finish. Drink now."

Wine Spectator 90 — Bruce Sanderson writes: "Walking the line between cherry and berry flavors and earth and iron notes, this red is bright and juicy midpalate, firming up on the long finish. Balanced overall, needing a year to knit together. Best from 2026 through 2033."

Decanter 91 — Michaela Morris writes: "At the southeastern end of Chianti Classico, the Fèlsina property spills into the Chianti Colli Senesi zone where, on a clear day you can see all the way to Siena, just 15km away. Harnessing its sunbathed setting, the 2022 is immediate and effusive in its charms. It evokes Maritime pine, scrubby Mediterranean brush and wild yellow broom, building in concentration as it glides fluently across the palate, where rocky minerals meet ripe strawberry. Vibrant, if a bit brisk to finish. Drinking 2024 to 2029."

• Producer: Fèlsina, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, wild berries, leather, spice, tobacco, dried herbs, rocky minerals
• Drink Window: Now–2033
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino, pasta al pomodoro, grilled lamb

A 90+ Chianti Classico at an honest price — Fèlsina Berardenga is the benchmark for what Castelnuovo Berardenga Sangiovese can be.