Red Wine

Expert Review - Vintage 2021

Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | This ripe and generous wine smells like a cherry pie and tastes like warm raspberries and cherries dusted with cinnamon and ground cloves. It’s a welcoming, almost-sweet Pinot that is comfy in texture and alluring in flavor.

Wine Spectator 91 Points | Juicy and elegant, with a savory edge to the mix of gently mulled raspberry and cherry fruit flavors, revealing a sous-bois accent as they move through the finish. Drink now through 2027. 342 cases made.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Pouring a deep youthful red hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Reserve is ripe and expressive on opening, offering loads of black cherries, sweet herbs, forest floor, and cola. Medium-bodied, it retains good levity on the palate while keeping a ripe feel, with ripe tannins and a clean finish.

Winemaker Description 

Ripe cherry and plum aromas open to a complex mix of rhubarb, forest floor, creamy oak and exotic dark floral tones. The fruit flavors continue a smooth, full bodied palate with forest floor, vinous and dark cherry flavors, finishing with supple volume and balance acidity.

Enjoy this wine now with sweet and spicy Moroccan roasted carrots, truffle risotto or cellar for enjoyment over the next few years.

Winemaker Description 

This affordable Merlot is medium-bodied with a hint of oak and flavors of cherries and plums. It is rich in the mouth and ends in a soft fruit filled finish!

A brilliantly engineered Italian classic — the Boomerang Corkscrew with Foil Cutter delivers a smooth, two-step cork extraction that makes opening any bottle feel effortless. Compact, clever, and built in Italy, it's the kind of tool that earns a permanent spot in your kitchen drawer.

Italian Engineering, Ingenious Design

The Boomerang's secret is its patented "crescent" handle design, which keeps the spring-loaded floating axis perfectly vertical during extraction. The boot lever locks straight on insertion, then works in two precise steps: the first lever extracts about 7/8" of the cork, then a simple press of the boot lever pulls the rest cleanly out — no rocking, no struggling, no broken corks.

Features

• Made in Italy — precision-engineered two-step lever mechanism
• Patented crescent handle keeps the axis vertical for clean extraction
• Boot lever locks straight during insertion for stability
• Includes foil cutter for clean capsule removal
• Compact and lightweight — fits easily in a pocket or drawer
• Compatible with standard wine bottle corks

Perfect For

• Everyday wine opening at home
• A practical, affordable gift for any wine lover
• Stocking stuffers and wine gift baskets
• Anyone upgrading from a basic corkscrew

At just $9.99, the Boomerang Corkscrew is exceptional value — Italian craftsmanship and smart engineering at an everyday price.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018 

Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points | From one of my favorite estates in Pomerol, the 2018 Château Le Gay knocks it out of the park and has that classic Pomerol mix of sexy opulence paired with an incredible sense of finesse. Offering an already complex bouquet of crème de cassis, black cherries, white truffle, camphor, tobacco, and acacia flowers, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a seamless, expansive texture, ultra-fine tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. I'd be thrilled with bottles in the cellar. It's going to put a smile on any wine lover's face over the coming 20-25 years.

James Suckling 97 Points | Aromas of plums, violets and mushrooms with earthy notes. Fleshy and succulent texture to the full body with round, firm tannins and a salivating, savory finish. Very persistent. Opulent and reserved at the same time. Contrastive wine. Drink after 2025.

Wine Advocate 95 Points | Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Le Gay has a beautifully perfumed nose of lavender essence, chocolate-covered cherries and preserved plums, leading to a fragrant undercurrent of kirsch, licorice and fertile loam. The concentrated, full-bodied palate (15% alcohol) delivers bold, black fruit flavors with compelling red berry sparks and a plush texture, finishing long with just enough freshness.

Vinous 94 Points | The 2018 Le Gay is unusually reticent today. Lavender, rose petal, mint, blood orange and crushed red berry fruit emerge over time. Deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2018 packs serious punch. It is one of more sensual wines of the vintage in Pomerol, but readers will have to be patient, as the 2018 is in no mood to show its cards just yet.

Wine Spectator 93-96 Points | Plum, boysenberry and açaí berry flavors give this a slightly exotic character, with a polished texture and lingering anise notes. Shows latent grip on the finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. 

Producer Description 

Removes corks that fall into the bottle. Stainless steel.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Winemaker Description 

Quick Expert Summary - Vintage 2022

 🍇 Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy) 92 Points Described the fruit as having a refined character and complexity, with a savory red berry note, plenty of energy, and good acidity.

🍷 Vinous (Neal Martin) 91 Points Noted a well-defined bouquet with black cherries and wild strawberry fruit; the palate is medium-bodied, smooth and sensual toward the finish.

📜 Burghound (Allen Meadows) 90 PointsPraised the attractively spicy nose and the "slightly better verve" on the palate, which finishes with fine-grained tannins.

✨ Wine Spectator (Bruce Sanderson) 90 Points Found it to be a tangy red with spicy cherry, pomegranate, and blood orange flavors, calling it nicely integrated and juicy.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Allen Meadows writes:  An attractively spicy nose freely offers up aromas of dark pinot fruit, Savigny-style earth, violet and an interesting hint of white pepper. There is slightly better verve suffusing the lightly stony middleweight flavors that also possess a caressing but punchy mouthfeel on the lingering finale that is noticeably finer thanks to the fine-grained tannins. This too could be approached young though at least a few years of cellaring should be beneficial.  - Burghound 90

Bruce Sanderson writes:  A tangy red, this features spicy cherry, pomegranate, blood orange and toasty oak flavors. Nicely integrated, with a whisper of dusty tannins lining the finish. This is juicy, with the fruit resonating on the aftertaste. Best from 2027 through 2040.   - Wine Spectator 90

Neal Martin writes:  The 2022 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Lavières 1er Cru has a well-defined bouquet with black cherries and wild strawberry fruit, pure and refined. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe red fruit and light pastille notes, smooth and sensual towards the finish. Give this three or four years in bottle.  - Vinous 91

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Jeb Dunnuck 91-93 Points | A ripe, opulent second wine, the 2022 Amiral De Beychevelle offers lots of black cherry, mulberry, and plum-like fruits as well as some floral, violet, and graphite nuances. It's medium to full-bodied, has elegant, silky tannins, and a great finish. It's one heck of a sexy, already hard to resist second wine that should keep for 10-12 years, if not longer.

James Suckling 91-92 Points | Very refined and pretty already with linear fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Medium body. Attractive finish. 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% merlot.

Producer Description 

The wine is a crimson-hued garnet red. The nose reveals red berry fruit aromas combined with delicate floral notes of peony and fresh mint. A dense and muscular attack leads into a full-bodied mid-palate whose juicy and expressive substance is underlined by well-rounded, silky tannins. The long and balanced finish lingers on notes of spice, especially white pepper.

Expert Reviews - 2021 Vintage

James Suckling 95 Points | This is surprisingly full-bodied and round, reflecting the warmth and sunny exposure of the vineyard around the chateau. Tangy and vivid with currants, fresh flowers and plenty of energy and length. Delicate yet ripe. 77% cabernet sauvignon, 19.5% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 0.5% petit verdot. Needs two or three years to come together completely. Drink after 2027.

Jeb Dunnuck 91-93 Points | The second wine of this great estate, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton De Mouton Rothschild checks in as 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19.5% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, brought up in 50% new barrels. It has plenty of class and charm, with pure Cabernet notes of cassis, graphite, tobacco, and damp earth. These carry to a medium-bodied, balanced, elegant, seamless wine with fine tannins, integrated oak, and a great finish.

Vinous 90-92 Points |  Representing 40% of the total volume, a little more than usual, the 2021 Le Petit-Mouton, is aged in 50% new oak. A very Cabernet nose with conspicuous graphite scents infusing the black fruit, a little Earl Grey in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy opening, not amazingly complex but well balanced with fine tannins and just a pinch of black pepper on the finish. Classic in style, it should give 15-20 years of drinking pleasure.

Decanter 92 Points | Beautifully fragrant strawberries and red cherries, just so perfumed and appealing, really a very lovely nose drawing you in. An excellent Petit Mouton in 2021; serious intensity here but also such a liveliness as well as creaminess. It has weight and layers while having fruit intensity and a core of aromatics. There's a softness and delicacy in terms of the tannins and frame - beguiling - but a real base of concentrated blue, red and black fruits - strawberries, red cherries and blackcurrants. You get the stony tones and the clove on the finish but this feels round, expansive and approachable. It's uber glamorous, still with freshness and lift. A gorgeous wine with lots going on! 0.5% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.73pH. 14% press wine.

Wine Advocate 89-91 Points | Since Mouton-Rothschild itself this year derives exclusively from the two plateaus that always make up the core of the blend, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton benefits from the inclusion of parcels that often make it into the grand vin. Exhibiting aromas of crème de cassis, mint, cigar wrapper, violets and espresso roast, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and fleshy, with a rich core of fruit, powdery tannins, succulent acids and a persistent finish. Characterful and beautifully made, I wonder if I'm being a little severe with my score?

Big Table Farm Pinot Noir — Willamette Valley, Oregon 2023

Big Table Farm is one of Willamette Valley's most beloved small producers — a genuine farm winery run by Brian and Clare Carver, who raise animals, grow vegetables, and make wine with the same hands-on, unhurried philosophy. Their Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is sourced from a network of trusted growers across the valley, blended to capture the region's signature elegance: bright red fruit, floral lift, and the kind of fine-grained structure that makes Oregon Pinot so compelling at the table. The 2023 vintage produced just 2,154 cases.

The wine pours a translucent ruby. The nose is supple and elegantly complex — delicate raspberry, cherry, rose petal, orange peel, and dusky spices. On the palate, it's bright and energetic with crunchy tannins and focused acidity, delivering red apple, blood orange, and raspberry with a lovely balance of fruit and savory undertones. Fine-grained tannins carry it through a long, polished finish. Drink now through 2033.

"Supple and elegantly complex, with delicate raspberry and cherry flavors laced with rose petal, orange peel and dusky spices as this glides toward fine-grained tannins." — Wine Spectator, 93 Points

• Producer: Big Table Farm, Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Production: 2,154 cases
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: Wine Spectator 93 | James Suckling 93
• Drink: Now through 2033
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, cherry, rose petal, orange peel, blood orange, dusky spices, fine-grained tannins
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck, mushroom risotto, truffled dishes, lean pork or veal, brie, goat cheese

A dual 93-point Willamette Valley Pinot Noir from one of Oregon's most authentic farm wineries — elegant, precise, and built for the table.

Critic Notes

Charles Curtis MW writes:  hint of exotic Asian spice. The palate has a deft balance between density, moderately firm tannins, and a lively freshness that leads to a pleasantly lingering finish—lovely wine. The grapes come from the domaine holding of just under a half-hectare located under Clos de la Roche; they are partially destemmed and carefully fermented before ageing in mainly used casks. Age five years before opening.  Drinking 2028 to 2055.  - Decanter 95

Neal Martin writes:  The 2022 Morey-Saint-Denis Les Millandes 1er Cru has one-third whole bunches. Brambly red fruit, sous-bois and light chalky scents on the nose that feels quite strict at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins. There’s mainly black fruit here, plus cedar and graphite, rather "serious" towards the finish. Fine, but it will require bottle age.  Drinking 2026 to 2042.  - Vinous 90-92

Allen Meadows writes:  A discreet application of wood sets off the softly spicy and earthy aromas of violet, lavender plum and red currant. The powerful and markedly more concentrated broad-shouldered flavors exude a subtle minerality on the succulent yet very firmly structured finale that exhibits excellent length. Patience will be necessary but it should be well-rewarded in time as this is packed with development potential.  Drink 2024+  - Burghound 93

Producer Description 

Akutain’s Rioja Reserva — a blend of Tempranillo with a touch of Garnacha and Viura — is fermented in a combination of stainless steel and fiberglass tanks, then aged for 35 months in predominantly neutral American oak with a small amount of French barrels. Mid-Ruby in color, this Reserva possesses a beautiful bouquet of ripe berry fruit mixed with notes of dried herbs, tobacco and rose petals.

The full-bodied palate displays concentrated flavors of black cherry, cooked-down strawberries and earth balanced by velvety, textured tannins. The finish exhibits enduring depth and complexity. The perfect companion to grilled, roasted or braised meats and game.

Campeador Rioja Reserva — Rioja, Spain 2020

Campeador is a name rooted in Spanish heritage — a tribute to El Cid, the legendary Castilian knight whose title "El Campeador" meant champion and master of military arts. The Rioja Reserva lives up to that name: a classically structured, age-worthy red built from an equal blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha, with Graciano adding depth and aromatic complexity. Aged to Reserva standards in oak and bottle, the 2020 vintage delivers the kind of rich, nuanced Rioja that rewards patience and pairs beautifully with the table.

The nose is warm and inviting: dark cherry, blackberry, dried plum, vanilla, and cedar, with earthy undertones of leather and dried herbs from the oak aging. On the palate, the wine is medium-to-full-bodied with a supple structure, well-integrated tannins, and a long, spiced finish of red fruit, tobacco, and toasted oak. Tempranillo brings the backbone and dark fruit; Garnacha adds roundness and warmth; Graciano contributes freshness and aromatic lift. Together they create a Reserva of genuine character and depth.

"With an equal presence of Tempranillo and Garnacha, Campeador Reserva highlights the very best of both, creating a range of rich nuances that is bound to please." — Winemaker’s Notes

• Producer: Campeador, Rioja, Spain
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa, Reserva
• Region: Rioja, Spain
• Varietal: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano
• Aging: Reserva — minimum 3 years, including oak and bottle aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, dried plum, vanilla, cedar, leather, dried herbs, tobacco, toasted oak
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, aged Manchego, mushroom risotto

A classically structured Rioja Reserva at an honest price — Campeador is the benchmark for what Tempranillo and Garnacha, aged to Reserva standards, can deliver from one of Spain’s greatest appellations.

Winemaker Description 

Dark berry and meat flavors carry the day, making it a great match for roasted or braised meat and game. But it also will mesh with and enhance pizza, hearty pasta and most anything made with winter squash.

Experience the Richness of Anapea Village Saperavi

Winemaker Description 

Light orange with the notes of pink color. Aromas: Well-expressed aromas of barberry and rose, with the raspberry notes on the second nose.

Taste: Mouth is soft and rich with well-expressed dried barberry aromas, citrus, strawberries and earthy minerality.

Medium-bodied dry wine with balanced tannins, backed by lively acidity and long finish. 

Memo Summary Notes

A bold, "natural" red wine from the Kakheti region of Georgia. Produced by the husband-and-wife team Gocha and Khatia, it is crafted using 8,000-year-old traditional methods.

Food Pairings

• Meats: Grilled lamb, beef fillet, or traditional Georgian Chakapuli (herbed lamb stew).

• Game: Excellent with duck, goose, or pheasant.

• Vegetarian: Rich mushroom dishes or roasted root vegetables.

• Cheese: Pairs well with mature, hard cheeses.

Introduction to Saperavi

Saperavi is a stunning red wine that originates from Georgia, one of the oldest wine regions in the world. The Anapea Village Saperavi 2019 showcases the intense fruity flavors and vibrant character expected from this remarkable varietal. It features rich aromas of dark berries, plums, and spices, providing a delightful sensory experience. This wine is not only delicious but also has a beautiful deep color that captivates the eye, making it a perfect choice for special occasions.

Flavor Profile and Pairing

The flavor profile of Anapea Village Saperavi is deep and complex. You will taste luscious dark fruits, like cherry and blackberry, accompanied by hints of oak and a touch of earthiness. This blend makes it an excellent companion to a variety of foods. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rich stews, and hearty cheeses. So, whether you're planning a dinner party or a casual meal, this Saperavi will enhance your dining experience.

Why Choose Anapea Village Saperavi

Choosing Anapea Village Saperavi 2019 means selecting quality, tradition, and authenticity. This wine is crafted with care from grapes grown in the fertile soils of Georgia, where the climate is perfect for producing exceptional wines. It's an ideal option for wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Plus, the sustainable practices used in its production reflect a commitment to quality and the environment. Therefore, you're not just enjoying a glass of wine; you're embracing a piece of Georgian heritage.

Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | This is a widely available, nonvintage blend of 54% Syrah, 15% Petite Syrah, 14% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and 7% Zinfandel. Aromas of cara-melized black fruit, oak and black pepper lead into an extremely rich palate that's loaded with vanilla, caramel, fudge and black cherry.

Expert Review 

92 Points Burghound | A slightly more deeply pitched nose is comprised by decidedly cool notes of plum, dark currant, forest floor and floral top notes, especially violet. Much like the Lavières, there is a positively gorgeous, even silky, texture to the lighter-bodied flavors thanks to the ultra-fine tannins shaping the overtly stony, dusty and youthfully austere finale. This is textbook Ile de Vergelesses.

Don Melchor Puente Alto Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon — Maipo Valley, Chile 2022 750ml

Chile’s first icon wine and a true benchmark among the world’s finest labels, Don Melchor is the singular expression of the Puente Alto Denomination of Origin — a vineyard planted at the foot of the Andes Mountains on the northern bank of the Maipo River at 650 meters elevation. The Don Melchor Vineyard spans 125 hectares, with vines averaging 38 years of age, rooted in the poor gravel soils and balanced temperatures that define this legendary Cabernet Sauvignon terroir. The 2022 blend is composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot, aged in French oak barrels with 78% new oak.

The 2022 vintage delivered exceptionally even temperatures throughout the growing season, with stable conditions from veraison through ripening and cooler nights that preserved freshness and aromatic precision. Winemaker Enrique Tirado describes it as a wine of “intense aromatic expression dominated by red fruit and floral notes followed by blackcurrants and blackberries — smooth on entry, evolving into mouth-filling flavours with tremendous concentration, great energy, fine textures, and a long, expressive finish.”

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 99 Points: Blackcurrants, cassis, and graphite on the nose. Pure and fragrant. Full-bodied with superb density and tannins that are so polished — the texture is like touching a silk ball. The finish is very long and compact, and it will come together beautifully with time in the bottle.

Tim Atkin 97 Points: Fresh yet rich and concentrated. Youthful, focused, and well structured — a seamless cuvée showing delightful purity and elegance, top notes of cedarwood and graphite, layered tannins, and a core of cassis, vanilla spice, and black cherry.

Vinous 97 Points: Complex aromas of currant, blackberry, ash, mint, and a subtle floral tone. Dry, rich, and moderately juicy with precisely calibrated tannins and clear fruit imparting intensity and agility. A more nuanced and energetic edition of Don Melchor.

• Producer: Viña Don Melchor, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Puente Alto Denomination of Origin, Maipo Valley
• Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
• Aging: French oak barrels, 78% new
• Vineyard: 125 hectares at 650m, vines averaging 38 years old
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, cassis, graphite, cedarwood, black cherry, mint, floral, silk tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Exceptional aging potential — best from 2027 onward; decant if opening now
• Best Paired With: Prime ribeye, braised short ribs, roast lamb, aged hard cheeses, truffle dishes

Chile’s most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon — Don Melchor 2022 is a wine of extraordinary concentration, elegance, and Andean terroir that belongs in any serious cellar.

Winemaker Notes

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

About the Wine

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

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

Tasting & Pairings

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

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

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Enthusiast by Aleks Zecevic writes 88 Points | This features oak spice notes, but with nice vibrancy and ripeness of Damson plum and mulberry. Some ripe stem notes emerge and mark the moderately long finish. 

Winemaker Description 

The classic Blaufränkisch from Zantho shows a fine fruit reminiscent of blackberries with a hint of cinnamon. Juicy berries on the palate are supported by a very harmonious acid and tannin structure. 

Expert Review

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

Winemaker Description

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

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2018

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

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

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

Expert Review

91 Points Wine Enthusiast | Fruit of the forest compote notes shine with subtle vanilla on the inviting nose. The palate adds cinnamon spice to these notions and comes in with both concentration and slenderness. Bright freshness gives focus and makes for a mouthwatering finish. An elegant but still fruit-driven Zweigelt.

Winemaker Description

This has incredible power and drive with blackberry, black olive and graphite. It’s full-bodied, yet dynamic and agile, with so much polished and muscular tannin. Yet, it remains in harmony and balance. So much character. The head of the chateau calls it diabolical beauty. 25% less production than the 2019. 52% cabernet sauvignon, 42% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 99- 100 Points | A blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2020 Haut-Bailly was harvested from the 9th to 25th of September. It has an alcohol of 14.3%. Deep purple-black in color, it prances out of the glass with naturally beautiful notions of fresh black cherries, violets, mulberries and boysenberries, giving way to hints of redcurrant jelly, star anise, tilled soil and menthol. The medium to full-bodied palate is delicately crafted with velvety/grainy tannins and fantastic freshness framing the perfumed red and black berry layers, finishing on a lingering fragrant-earth note. (2020). 

Robert Parker 96-98 Points | A legendary Haut-Bailly in the making, the 2020 sports a dense purple color to go with powerful notes of blackcurrants, black cherries, scorched earth, and graphite. Reminding me of the 2010, it takes plenty of air to show at its best yet is full-bodied, has a seamless texture, massive of ultra-fine tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. It’s one of the most structured, powerful Haut-Bailly I’ve ever tasted, yet it still has the classic elegance, nuance, and length of this terrific terroir. It will need 5-7 years (or more) of bottle age but will have 50 years of overall longevity. The 2020 is 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, and 3% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. (2020). 

Jeb Dunnuck 96-98 Points | Deep, rich and explosive, the 2020 Haut-Bailly is magnificent from the very first taste. Dark fruit, chocolate, licorice and spice give the 2020 a level of unctuousness that is absolutely thrilling. Readers should be patient, as the 2020 is going to need time to come around. Yields are down 25% from 2019, and that richness comes through loud and clear. (2020). 

Vinous 95-97 Points | (Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France, Red) Rich in texture and colour, this has clear layers and complexity, a wine that you want to take your time with, slow down and enjoy. One that will take its time to age also. This has a precision and a clarity to the aromatics, and a gentle buzz of minerality that gives a physical reaction in the mouth. Less exuberant than the 2018 or 2019, making this a vintage that suits the style of Haut-Bailly. A slight austerity to the tannins on the finish gives a blueberry redcurrant edge. 3% Petit Verdot completes the blend (now around eight years old), usually co-fermented with the Cabernet Sauvignon (sometimes with Cabernet Franc). IPT similar to 2016, 2010, 2005, but with a softness that comes from extremely ripe tannins. Strong potential for upscoring when it bottle. (Drink between 2030-2050). (2020),

Winemaker Description

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

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

Discover the Unique Taste with Partida Pedrer Negre

Discover the unique taste of Priorat with Partida Pedrer Negre 2022, a standout "natural" Priorat crafted by the power couple of Spanish winemaking, Sara Pérez (of Mas Martinet) and René Barbier Jr. (of Clos Mogador). This exceptional wine showcases a fresher, more ethereal side of the Priorat region, moving away from the heavy extraction and oak dominance common in the past. Pure Priorat without any additives, this wine represents quite a challenge and a triumph in natural winemaking.

Natural Winemaking Philosophy

Partida Pedrer is a natural red wine that shows the purity of expression, without additives of any kind. The wine macerates in the winery with part of the whole berry and part of crushed grapes for 8-10 days, where it begins a spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. The fermentation ends and the wine ages in cement jars, allowing the true character of the terroir to shine through. Finally, the wine is bottled without any type of additive, creating an authentic expression of Priorat.

Power Couple Winemakers

Sara Pérez and René Barbier Jr. are renowned figures in Spanish winemaking, each bringing their own legendary family heritage to this collaboration. Their mission is to showcase the exceptional quality of Priorat wines while embracing traditional practices and modern techniques for a balanced and harmonious profile. This wine reflects their commitment to quality and their deep understanding of the region's unique terroir.

Tasting Profile

Deep, vibrant color that invites you in. On the nose, aromas of dark fruits mingle with subtle hints of spices, herbs, and a touch of minerality, presenting a complex yet inviting bouquet. The palate reveals a full-bodied experience with rich blackberry and plum flavors that harmoniously integrate with earthy undertones and a touch of minerality. Silky texture with well-rounded tannins enhances the tasting journey, leading to a long, satisfying finish that lingers beautifully. A fresher, more ethereal expression of Priorat.

Priorat Terroir

The Priorat region is known for its stunning landscapes and unique terroir, benefiting from a combination of granite and slate soils (llicorella) along with a Mediterranean climate that imparts distinct flavors to the grapes. This exceptional origin in the heart of Priorat captures the essence of the region, reflecting its rich history and the distinctive character that makes Priorat wines so celebrated worldwide.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The versatility of this wine makes it excellent for various culinary pairings:

• Wild mushroom risotto
• Grilled lamb with rosemary
• Roasted quail or game birds
• Grilled meats and hearty stews
• Aged cheeses like Manchego
• Dark chocolate desserts

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet evening, or celebrating a special occasion, this natural Priorat wine stands as an excellent choice. Its full-bodied nature and elegant profile add sophistication and flavor to any dining experience, while the wine's acidity and structure complement richer dishes beautifully, creating a harmonious balance that will impress your guests.

Expert Reviews

Winemaker Description

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

Founded in 1980 by Koerner and Joan Rombauer — whose great-aunt Irma Rombauer wrote the legendary Joy of Cooking — Rombauer Vineyards has spent four decades building one of Napa Valley's most beloved wine brands. Drawing on Koerner's German Rheingau heritage and a deep love of food and wine, the family established a winery known for its fruit-driven, generous style and exceptional hospitality. Today, Rombauer sources from mountain and valley vineyards across Napa, Sonoma, the Sierra Foothills, and the Santa Lucia Highlands.

The Rombauer Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, sourced from both mountain and valley estate vineyards. A labor-intensive 30% of the fruit is barrel-fermented — a technique that deepens color and layers fruit and oak nuances with remarkable complexity. Almost entirely estate-grown and optically sorted, it opens with mixed red and black cherries, dried sage, and bay leaf on the nose. On the palate it is plush, full-bodied, and easy to drink, with a comfortable, juicy character and moderately firm tannins. The quintessential Napa Cab for immediate pleasure.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• James Suckling — 93 Points: "A plush, fresh and juicy red that's so comfortable and easy. A large 30% of the fruit is barrel fermented, a labor intensive practice that helps deepen the color and improve the layering of fruit and oak nuances. Full-bodied and moderately tannic."
• Wine Advocate — 90 Points: "Almost entirely estate grown and optically sorted. Mixed red and black cherries dominate the nose, accented by hints of dried sage and bay leaf. Full-bodied, plush and easy to drink."

Wine Details

• 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc
• Napa Valley, California — mountain & valley estate vineyards
• 30% barrel-fermented | Optically sorted
• Vintage: 2022 | 750ml
• Pairs with: grilled ribeye, lamb chops, aged cheddar, hearty pasta

Winemaker Description

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

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

Kosher for Passover.

Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto — Rioja, Spain 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winemaker Description 

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

Memo Summary Notes

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

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

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

• Casual Fare: Pepperoni pizza or burgers.

• Cheeses: Aged Gouda or Mimolette.

  
  

   

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | The 2020 Tierra Alta A 2 Maderas was the producer’s old Crianza, but they are not using that anymore designation, and this youngest is its vintage in the market. With 15 months in French and American oak, it’s powerful and complex in dense black cherry, black licorice, and firm tannins, medium-bodied in style, with 10-15 years more to go. The texture is slate nearly, granitic, seasoned in dried herb.

Winemaker Description

Tierra Alta 2 Maderas de Bodegas Valduero is a serious Spanish red, made by one of the most recognized houses in Ribera del Duero. It stands out for a concentrated and elegant style, where the use of two types of wood seeks aromatic complexity and structure, respecting the fruity profile of the grape and the marked continental character of the area.

Color: Intense pecota red with high and bright layer violet trim, which reflects the typical concentration of the continental climate reds of the Castilian plateau. The tear is dense and leisurely, according to the structured style that characterizes Valduero and its aging wines in different types of wood.

Nose: Aromas of ripe black fruit, such as plums and blackberries, are combined with spicy notes and memories of cocoa and vanilla from the passage through two types of barrels. Balsamic nuances and a slightly torrefied background also arise, in the line of the reds of the Ribera del Duero made with a vocation of complexity and storage.

Mouth: Wide and enveloping entrance, with firm but polished tannins and an acidity that supports the whole well, reflecting the extreme climate of the region. The work in two woods brings volume, creamy touches and a long finish with memories of ripe fruit, sweet spices and a subtle smoked touch, very in keeping with the powerful and elegant style of Valduero.

Valduero has a clear purpose: to elaborate Reservas and Gran Reservas. Valduero 2 Maderas ages for three years. Intense, lively garnet with a high colored. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Valduero Tierra Alta en 2 Maderas 2020 is a powerhouse Tempranillo from one of Ribera del Duero's most respected family-owned estates. Formerly labeled simply as "Valduero Crianza," this wine is part of their "Tierra Alta" (Highlands) collection, sourced from vineyards at altitudes exceeding 800 meters.

Winemaker Description

Considered the pinnacle of Burgundy, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti produces some of the world’s most revered wines from its tiny vineyards in Vosne-Romanee. Grands-Echezeaux, is a Grand Cru vineyard yielding sublime wines that are among the most highly-sought, seductive and rarest in the world.

The 2020 Grands Échézeaux is full-bodied, ample and fleshy with an abundance of powdery tannins and succulent acids. The luscious palate presents strawberry, cherry, leather, earth, mushroom, mint, a touch of spice, oak, and refreshing minerality.