Red Wine

Critical Acclaim

• James Suckling – 94 Points | “Very pretty blackberries and blackcurrants with a hint of lead pencil. Medium-bodied with creamy, refined tannins and a polished finish. Shows precision and focus, especially in this hot vintage.” Drink after 2027.
• Jeb Dunnuck – 92 Points | “Ripe black cherries, redcurrants, spicy oak, and flowery incense. Medium to full-bodied with plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe polished tannins, and a great finish. Beautifully done — will evolve gracefully over the coming two decades.”
• Vinous – 92 Points | “Elegant, mid-weight Margaux. Dark-toned fruit, cloves, new leather and sweet spice, nicely lifted throughout. Attractive floral overtones extend the finish. Will drink well with minimal cellaring.”

Tasting Notes

Aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, red cherry, and lead pencil with floral incense and spicy oak. On the palate, creamy, refined tannins frame flavors of dark fruit, cloves, and sweet spice with attractive floral overtones on the finish. Precise, polished, and classically Margaux in character.

About the Wine

Château Rauzan-Gassies is a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru Classé) from the Margaux appellation, one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious classifications dating to 1855. The 2022 is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot, raised in 57% new oak barrels. The 2022 vintage in Bordeaux is widely regarded as exceptional — and this wine delivers the precision and elegance that defines great Margaux. Now available in bottle as of early 2026.

Cellaring

Drink from 2027 through 2040+. Decant 45–60 minutes if opening now.

Food Pairing

Classic with roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, and aged hard cheeses.

Product Details

• Appellation: Margaux, Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: 2nd Growth Grand Cru Classé (1855)
• Blend: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Château Rauzan-Gassies

Menage a Trois Light Low Alcohol Red Blend 2022 750ml

Discover Menage a Trois Light Low Alcohol Red Blend 2022, a lush California red wine crafted for those seeking a lighter wine experience without sacrificing flavor. From the popular Menage a Trois brand known for its approachable, fruit-forward wines, this Light Red Blend delivers all the great flavors of your favorite red blend, but with only 90 calories and 8% alcohol. Perfect for health-conscious wine lovers and those who prefer a lighter style, this wine offers the quality and taste Menage a Trois is famous for in a more mindful format.

Low Alcohol & Low Calorie Benefits

Menage a Trois Light Red Blend features reduced alcohol content and only 90 calories per serving, making it an excellent choice for:

• Health-conscious consumers moderating alcohol intake
• Only 90 calories per serving - perfect for those watching their diet
• 8% alcohol - significantly lower than traditional red wines
• Daytime drinking and afternoon gatherings
• Extended social occasions without heaviness
• Maintaining clarity and energy while enjoying wine
• Active lifestyles and wellness-focused consumers
• Guilt-free indulgence

Light & Lush Style

The "Light" designation reflects this wine's lush character with reduced alcohol and calories. Crafted to deliver all the great flavors of your favorite red blend in a lighter package, this wine offers vibrant fruit flavors and smooth texture without the weight of higher alcohol wines. The result is a refreshing, easy-drinking red that's perfect for any occasion.

Tasting Profile

Aroma: Fresh berry and spice aromas. Red raspberry, bright cherry, and subtle spice notes
Palate: Lush and fruit-forward. Juicy red raspberry and bright cherry flavors. Smooth texture with vibrant fruit character. Light to medium-bodied
Finish: Smooth, satisfying finish on the palate. Clean and refreshing

Serve Lightly Chilled

For a deliciously refreshing experience, serve this red blend lightly chilled. This unique serving suggestion enhances the wine's fresh berry character and makes it perfect for warm weather enjoyment. The slight chill brings out the bright, juicy fruit flavors and creates a refreshing drinking experience.

Menage a Trois Quality

Menage a Trois is renowned for producing approachable, fruit-forward California wines that appeal to a wide range of wine drinkers. The Light Red Blend continues this tradition, offering the brand's signature quality and flavor in a lighter, lower-alcohol, lower-calorie format. Every bottle reflects Menage a Trois's commitment to creating wines that are both delicious and accessible.

Only 90 Calories

With only 90 calories per serving and 8% alcohol, Menage a Trois Light Red Blend is an excellent choice for those watching their caloric intake while still enjoying quality wine. This wine allows you to indulge in the pleasure of wine without the guilt, fitting seamlessly into a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle.

2022 Vintage Freshness

The 2022 vintage showcases fresh, vibrant fruit character that makes this red blend perfect for immediate enjoyment. This vintage captures bright berry flavors and smooth texture, offering a refreshing taste experience that's ideal for any occasion.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The lush, fruit-forward character of this red blend pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken and light poultry dishes
• Pizza and pasta with tomato sauce
• Burgers and casual fare
• Charcuterie and cheese boards
• Barbecue and grilled meats
• Mediterranean cuisine
• Light red meat dishes
• Casual dining and entertaining

Perfect for Any Occasion

Menage a Trois Light Red Blend is ideal for:

• Daytime entertaining and afternoon gatherings
• Warm weather sipping and outdoor events
• Poolside relaxation and picnics
• Casual weeknight dinners
• Extended social gatherings
• Health-conscious celebrations
• Anytime you want great taste with less alcohol and fewer calories
• Active lifestyle and wellness-focused events

Serving Suggestions

Serve lightly chilled at 55-60°F (13-15°C) for a deliciously refreshing experience. The slight chill enhances the fresh berry and bright cherry flavors, making this an excellent choice for warm weather or anytime you want a refreshing glass of red wine.

Approachable California Style

Menage a Trois Light Red Blend embodies the approachable, fruit-forward style that has made the brand a favorite among wine lovers. The wine's easy-drinking character and versatile food-pairing ability make it perfect for both wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers seeking a lighter option.

Modern Wine for Modern Lifestyles

Menage a Trois Light Low Alcohol Red Blend represents the evolution of California winemaking, meeting the needs of today's health-conscious consumers who don't want to compromise on flavor. This wine proves that lower alcohol and fewer calories don't mean lower quality – it's a thoughtfully crafted red blend that delivers lush fruit, smooth texture, and the signature Menage a Trois quality in a lighter, more mindful package perfect for modern, active lifestyles.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

Wine Enthusiast 95 Points — Editors' Choice (Kerin O’Keefe) | Delicate aromas of blue flower, red berry and a hint of underbrush. Elegant and firmly structured, the savory palate offers crushed raspberry, ripe cherry and baking spice alongside taut tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2027–2039.

Vinous 94 Points (Antonio Galloni) | Sweet red cherry, kirsch, rose petal, mint, spice, earthiness, crushed rocks and pipe tobacco — all beautifully lifted. Medium in body with compelling inner sweetness and tons of finesse. Positively stellar, and unusually for a Rabajà, it will drink well with minimal cellaring.

Decanter 92 Points | Great complexity of pot pourri, wild strawberry, cherry and licorice. Tannins are firm yet fine, bold and fleshy with energy and pep. Austere yet precise finish.

About the Wine

The Castello di Verduno Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019 is a masterpiece of traditional winemaking from one of the most famous and powerful crus in Barbaresco. The Riserva is only produced in exceptional years, and the 2019 vintage in Piedmont is widely considered classic and high-structured — making this a true collector’s item with decades of life ahead.

Tasting & Pairings

Blue flower, crushed raspberry, ripe cherry, kirsch, rose petal, baking spice, earthiness, and pipe tobacco. Firmly structured with taut, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Decant generously or cellar through 2039.

• Braised lamb shank or veal osso buco — the firm tannins and acidity are built for rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Handmade tajarin with butter and sage — a classic Piedmontese pairing that lets the wine’s complexity shine.
• Aged Castelmagno or Toma Piemontese — regional cheeses that complement Nebbiolo’s earthy depth.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 97 Points | An elegant and stylish wine with fresh violets, roses, wild strawberries, earthy minerals and hints of Sichuan pepper and licorice on the nose. Full-bodied, firm, tense and fresh with a dusty texture, yet tight and well packed. Austere finish.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | A high-toned aroma of rose petal meets earth and savory underbrush notes in this multifaceted red. Flavors of strawberry and cherry hold the middle ground, while bracing acidity and sinewy tannins lend support. Long and elegant, with a lasting aftertaste of ripe cherry.

Winemaker Notes

Pajé is a small 1.83-hectare (4.52-acre) strip of land facing southwest, particularly rich in calcareous marl with a high content of active limestone. The amphitheater of Pajé opens onto the Tanaro river valley, which mitigates cold winters and hot summers, creating a unique microclimate. The vines range from 25 to 50 years of age (averaging over 40), and all new plantings are propagated using the massale selection method — clippings pruned exclusively from the Pajé vineyard itself.

About Roagna

The Roagna Barbaresco Pajé 2020 is a legendary release from one of the most artisanal and traditionalist producers in the Langhe. Luca Roagna is known for "monastic" patience, often aging his wines for five years or more before they leave the cellar.

The 2020 vintage is characterized by a "velvet glove" elegance — more approachable in its youth than the structured 2019s, showing silkier tannins while maintaining the estate's signature power and depth.

Tasting & Pairings

Expect classic Nebbiolo aromatics — dried rose, tar, red cherry, and earthy spice — wrapped in silky, fine-grained tannins with remarkable length. This is a wine built for contemplation but generous enough to enjoy now with proper decanting.

• Braised short ribs or osso buco — the tannin structure and acidity cut through rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Truffle risotto or tajarin pasta — a classic Piedmontese pairing that lets the wine shine.
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno — hard, nutty cheeses complement Nebbiolo’s complexity.

Winemaker Description 

Cherry, pomegranate, and floral notes of lavender and violets. Dried cranberry, black raspberry, cocoa, vanilla, and black pepper spice.

Intense, vibrant red fruit—black cherry, cranberry, pomegranate—mixed with darker flavors of currant, plum, and hints of chocolate and vanilla. Nice acidity, making the wine balanced and sweet, but not at all cloying—an ideal dessert wine.

Dashe Cellars has made Late Harvest Zinfandels since 1997, and this luscious and balanced dessert wine has always been a favorite. This particular Late Harvest Zinfandel is made from grapes grown on the Louvau Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley. One of the reasons that we love this vineyard is the wonderful acidity of the grapes. The resulting wine is focused and clear—it’s never cloying, and always finishes with a crisp, clean, sweet-spicy note.

We create the conditions for making Late Harvest Zinfandel by allowing the grapes to hang on the vine approximately 3--4 weeks after they normally would be picked for a dry wine. These grapes were picked on October 30th on a beautiful Fall day, and the grapes arrived at the winery at 40° Brix of sugar. We crushed the grapes into a small 1,500-gallon tank and as is our tradition at Dashe Cellars, we fermented the grapes naturally, using the native yeasts that naturally live on the skins of the grapes. We let the grapes macerate to gain color and flavor, and then allowed the tank to warm. The fermentation took off quickly, and then naturally halted when the alcohol had reached about 15.5% and the sugar level was about 9%. We always allow the wine to achieve its balance of sweetness and alcohol naturally, by letting the fermentation finish on its own. The wine was aged in older French oak barrels so as to not overpower the intensity of the fruit. We bottled the wine as soon as possible to maintain its fresh fruit flavors and conserve its sweet concentration and purity. The wine is unfined and received minimal handling to the bottle.

Technical Description 

• Practicing Sustainable
• 100% Zinfandel
• Lily Hill Vineyard (Dry Creek Valley AVA)
• Originally planted in 1915, replanted in 2001
• 800 – 1,000 ft. elevation
• Harvested 3-4 weeks after normal picking for dry wines
• Crushed into stainless steel tanks
• Native yeast fermentation
• Aged in older French barrels
• R.S. 90 g/L or 9% by volume
• 381 cases produced
• 14.5% abv

Experience the rich depth of Pielihueso Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that embodies the passion and organic farming philosophy of this family-owned estate. Spanish for "skin and bones," Pielihueso began in 2017 when father/daughter combo Alejandro and Celina Bartolome planted vines in Los Chacayes and Los Sauces, both subregions of the Uco Valley located within Tunuyán. This exquisite blend combines the elegance of Malbec with the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon, creating a delightful balance that captivates the palate.

High Elevation Organic Vineyard

50% Malbec, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon grown on a high elevation vineyard (3,900m) with vines ranging from 12 years (Malbec) to 72 years (Cabernet Sauvignon) in sandy/clay soils. The grapes are hand harvested and kept 50% whole cluster, then fermented in stainless steel tanks. All wines are farmed organically and made with no corrections, fermented with native indigenous yeasts, and a low addition of sulfur is added just before bottling.

Family Winemaking Philosophy

Alejandro comes from a long background in organic farming, and this is the family's first foray into wine. The winery's style focuses on making light, bright, clean, and vibrant wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Uco Valley. The labels were even created by the family - Carmela, the other daughter, designed them from their brother's artwork, making each bottle a true family collaboration.

Tasting Profile

Deep purple hue with an inviting aroma. The flavor profile is a tapestry of dark fruits, complemented by hints of spice and oak. Rich notes of blackberry and plum are coupled with soft tannins that provide a velvety mouthfeel. The addition of Cabernet Sauvignon adds complexity, introducing subtle layers of blackcurrant and a whisper of chocolate. Light, bright, clean, and vibrant character with a smooth finish. This wine is designed to be enjoyed young but has the potential to develop further nuances with age.

Los Chacayes & Los Sauces Terroir

This wine reflects the rich terroir of Los Sauces and Los Chacayes, subregions of the renowned Uco Valley in Tunuyán. The 2024 vintage stands out due to optimal growing conditions at high elevation, ensuring that only the finest grapes are harvested. The combination of sandy/clay soils, high altitude, and old vines (up to 72 years for Cabernet Sauvignon) creates wines of exceptional quality and character.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This incredibly versatile wine complements a variety of dishes:

• Grilled lamb and beef stew
• Hearty steaks and grilled meats
• Aged cheeses
• Roasted vegetables
• Gourmet pizzas
• Rich pasta dishes

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly below room temperature to allow the aromatic qualities to shine. Whether paired with rich dishes or savored on its own, Pielihueso Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon offers a luxurious taste experience. As you indulge in this exceptional wine, let the robust flavors and smooth finish transport you to the picturesque vineyards of the Uco Valley, where each glass tells a story of family, organic farming, and dedication to crafting light, bright, and vibrant wines. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this wine will elevate your collection.

Roberto Henriquez | Rivera del Notro | Tinto País 2024 | Bio Bío Valley, Chile | 750ml | 11% ABV

Roberto Henriquez is one of Chile's most compelling natural wine producers, working with ancient País vines in the Secano Interior — the dry-farmed interior valleys of the south where this grape has grown, largely forgotten, for centuries. The Rivera del Notro is his most fruit-forward expression: 200-year-old vines planted in alluvial soils on the warmer southern edge of the Bío Bío River, yielding a wine that is juicy, generous, and built for the table.

Where his País Franco tends toward the ethereal and mineral, the Rivera del Notro leans into pleasure. Tart red berries, a firm but approachable tannic grip, and a refreshing acidity that makes it equally at home chilled on a summer afternoon or alongside a proper asado. Serve it slightly cool — this is a red that rewards a few minutes in the fridge.

"Summer has arrived and what a perfect way to enjoy the long summer days than with a bottle of chillable red. At 11% ABV, it's meant to be served chilled — ideal for picnics, park and beach outings. Lots of tart and tangy red fruit, light on the palate, refreshing acidity."
— Oscar Garcia Moncada, Lead Sommelier, 67 Wine

• Appellation: Bio Bío Valley, Secano Interior, Chile
• Grape: País (vines 200+ years old)
• Farming: Natural, dry-farmed, alluvial soils
• Style: Light-bodied, chillable red
• Serve: Slightly chilled (12–14°C)
• Pairs with: Asado, grilled lamb, longaniza, charcuterie, goat cheese, spicy tomato pasta

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Decanter 90 Points | Attractive and perfumed, with wild herb and spiced berry aromatics, vibrant palate of sour cherry, spice and a neat acidity. 

The Wine Enthusiast by Jesica Vargas writes 89 Points | The grapes are sourced from old vines in the Maule Valley. This País preserves its varietal typicity, offering intense strawberry aromas. The earthy palate is shaped by tart berries and hints of linden tea, alongside just enough acidity to make it a good match for Spanish tapas or Margherita pizza. 

Memo Summary Notes

The J. Bouchon "País Viejo" 2023 is a celebrated "rescue wine" from Chile’s Maule Valley. While the Rivera del Notro you looked at earlier is a raw, small-production natural wine, this "Viejo" (Old) bottling is arguably the wine that brought the País grape back into the global spotlight.

It is produced from 100-year-old bush vines that are dry-farmed (no irrigation), forcing the roots deep into granitic soils to find water and nutrients.

Pair with

The "Bouchon Pick": They specifically recommend this with fatty fish (like salmon or tuna) or simple pasta dishes. 

Rustic: Charcuterie, pork sausages (longaniza), or a classic margherita pizza.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter 93 Points | The 2022 is a charming, elegant rendition of the vintage expressing raspberry and strawberry with snaps of coriander and allspice. Seamless in flow, the palate is underscored by sweet acid and framed by soft, silky tannins. Juicy and drinkable now but with enough grip for the next seven to eight years. A blend of the estate's parcels in the distinguished MGAs of Rabajà, Rabajà-bas and Faset, Castello di Verduno's classic Barbaresco ages in large Slavonian oak casks.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2022 Barbaresco is a gracious, classy wine that captures the essence of the house style. Crushed flowers, sweet, red-toned fruit, orange peel, spice and rose petals are some of the notes that grace this understated, sensual Barbaresco. Soft tannins add to a feeling of approachability. What a pretty and engaging wine this is.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Pouring a bright medium ruby hue, the 2022 Barbaresco opens to notes of ripe cranberries, cinnamon, orange peel, and fresh flowers. The palate retains very nice freshness in this hot, dry vintage, with refreshing acidity, ripe tannins, and a clean, medium-bodied feel with a graceful and fruity finish. It's a highly charming offering to drink over the coming 6-8 years.

Memo Summary Notes

Verduno is a small town and the histories of the wineries located there are intertwined.

The Castle of Verduno, constructed in the early 1500s, was under the jurisdiction of the House of Savoy for much of its history until the Burlotto family purchased it in 1909.

The winery's philosophy is to produce wines that speak of place in a classic way and are also sustainable and protect the land. As such, they practice organic farming and are meticulous both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Minimal SO2 and also vinifies with indigenous yeast. Their wines are firmly traditional in style though never rustic; in fact just the opposite, they retain a rare elegance and purity.

Pair with

• Traditional: Tajarin pasta with a butter and sage sauce or a rich meat ragù.

• Savory: Roast pork tenderloin, braised beef short ribs, or a wild mushroom risotto.

Winemaker Description

Owned and operated by the highly-acclaimed Château Peybonhomme-Les Tours. This is an entirely biodynamic estate and the winemaking is very low intervention. This bottling is 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet-Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet-Franc, and 5% Malbec.

Memo Summary Notes

Château La Grolet 2022 is a standout "natural" Bordeaux from the Côtes de Bourg (located on the Right Bank, across the river from Margaux). Owned by the Hubert family (who also own Château Peybonhomme-Les Tours), this estate is a pioneer in sustainable viticulture, having been certified biodynamic for over 20 years.

Pair with 

Classic: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary or a traditional beef stew (Bœuf Bourguignon).

Rustic: Hearty lentil stews, tourtière (meat pie), or roasted root vegetables.

Cheese: Pairs exceptionally well with Comté or aged Cheddar.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

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

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

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

Winemaker Notes

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

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

Winemaker Description

Intense ruby red. The nose displays typical freshness of Vajra Barolo, with a weave of roses and ripe cherries, fresh mountain herbs and orange zest. In the mouth, bitter sweet and persistent flavors. Beautiful as a digestive or paired with dark chocolate. 18% alcohol.

Memo Summary Notes

The G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato is a sophisticated, fortified "digestif" from Piedmont, Italy. Unlike standard Barolo, this is an aromatized wine (similar to a premium vermouth) made by infusing Barolo DOCG wine with a secret blend of nearly 30 herbs, roots, and spices.

Critical Acclaim

• Tim Atkin – 95 Points | “Impressive finesse in a hot growing season, succulent tannins, flavours of blackberry, red cherry and ginger spice and a violet top note.”
• Vinous – 94–95 Points | “Violets, fresh plum and a delicate touch of oak open on the nose. Fine-grained reactive tannins define the texture. A red with charming nuances and evolving character.”
• Wine Advocate – 93–94 Points | “Pretty, juicy, ripe and approachable — really balanced and integrated with good purity. An approachable vintage of Flor.”

Tasting Notes

Aromas of blackberry, red cherry, violet, and ginger spice with a delicate touch of oak. On the palate, fine-grained, succulent tannins frame flavors of fresh plum and dark fruit with charming nuances and evolving character. Beautifully balanced and integrated, with impressive finesse for the vintage.

About the Wine

Flor de Pingus is the celebrated second wine of Dominio de Pingus, the legendary Ribera del Duero estate founded by Danish oenologist Peter Sisseck — widely regarded as one of Spain’s greatest winemakers and the visionary behind the cult flagship Pingus. Far more than a second label, Flor consistently ranks among Spain’s finest wines in its own right. The 2023 is sourced from five parcels — Barroso, El Castillo, El Pino, Fuentenarro, and Fuentes — totalling 49 hectares of 35+ year old Tinta del País and Garnacha vines farmed biodynamically. Aged in 10–15% new oak with a portion matured in 2,000-liter oak vats for added freshness and texture. Approximately 92,000 bottles produced.

Food Pairing

Pairs magnificently with roasted lamb, Wagyu beef, Iberian charcuterie, and complex mushroom dishes. A regional classic combination.

Product Details

• Appellation: Ribera del Duero, Castilla y León, Spain
• Varietal: Tinta del País (Tempranillo) & Garnacha
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Farming: Biodynamic
• Producer: Dominio de Pingus (Peter Sisseck)

Expert Reviews - Vingage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Tonya Pitts writes 92 Points | There are so many gems coming out of the 2023 vintage in California. Flavors of fresh-picked red berries, plums, pomegranates, mint sprigs, a kiss of earth and sunshine tell the story of a short but almost perfect growing season. Pick this one up and give it a whirl on the dinner table. 

The Tasting Panel 91 Points | This bright and shining red is a floral beauty packed with peony, violets, orange blossom, and red tea. Cherry pie arises on the midpalate.

Winemaker Description 

Production:
• Regeneratively farmed
• Certified sustainable per “Lodi Rules”
• Aged 12 mos. in seasoned French oak
• Vegan-friendly

Composition: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon • 25% Nero d'Avola

Eye: Deep garnet core, translucent ruby rim.

Nose: Gardenia, lilac, lavender, violet, black cherry, dried rose petals, spicy cedar, cigar box, and sweet vanilla.

Palate: Ripe blue & black fruits with subtle citrus, eucalyptus & brown sugar. Structured yet lush and creamy with soft, supple tannins that lead to an endlessly
delightful finish.

Pairing inspirations: Grilled portobello mushroom with balsamic garlic glaze, Moroccan spiced lamb, spaghetti Bolognese, vegetable lasagne, wild mushroom risotto, Margherita pizza.

House of Brown is a second-generation wine label under the BROWN Napa Valley umbrella, which also includes Chaos Theory and is anchored by flagship Brown Estate.

The Brown family have been in Napa since 1980. Siblings Deneen, Coral, and David began making wine in 1996. Raised by two medical professionals in a “Blue-Zone” household in Southern California, they all pitched in at their parents’ medical clinic. There, they adopted what would become a guiding principle in their wine business: Do no harm.

The creation of House of Brown was inspired by an extraordinary community of wine consumers who for over two decades had been finding themselves at home with Brown Estate, and in 2017 began assembling at the family’s then newly opened Brown Downtown Napa tasting room. This period marked an evolution in wine consumer demographics, with the industry at large seeing an influx of young and culturally diverse enthusiasts coming to the fore — dynamics that have been manifest at Brown for decades.

House of Brown was established in 2018 to expand access to the Brown wine experience, then nearly 25 years strong. The label designs are an homage to the brand’s Feel Seen ethos, and to the sense of welcome and belonging that are hallmarks at Brown. Produced with the same commitment to purity and balance that is foundational to Brown Estate, House of Brown wines are regeneratively farmed, certified sustainable, and vegan-friendly.

House of Brown is 100% family-owned + 100% Black-owned, and the brand is women-led.

Memo Summary Notes

The House of Brown Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is a relatively new addition to the "next-generation" lineup from the legendary Brown Estate—Napa Valley's first Black-owned estate winery. This Lodi bottling is designed to be inclusive, sustainable, and highly aromatic.

Highly versatile. It pairs excellently with Margherita pizza, grilled portobello mushrooms with balsamic glaze, Moroccan spiced lamb, or wild mushroom risotto.

Winemaker Description 

Bright soft-hued ruby. Delicately fruity on the nose reminiscent of cherry and toasted almonds, juicy on the palate, extremely “quaffable” and elegant on the
finish.

Memo Summary Notes

The Manincor "der Keil" Lago di Caldaro 2023 is a benchmark example of Schiava (also known as Vernatsch) from South Tyrol (Alto Adige), Italy. Produced by the Manincor estate—a leader in biodynamic and organic viticulture—this wine is sourced from the historical "der Keil" vineyard (a monopole), where old vines overlook the Lake of Kaltern.

It is often described as the perfect "bridge" wine for those who enjoy the elegance of Pinot Noir but want the crunchy, spicy character of northern Italy.

• Traditional Pairing: South Tyrolean Speck (cured ham) and local cheeses.

• Modern Pairing: It is one of the few reds that pairs beautifully with fried fish, tomato-based pasta, or even Cantonese cuisine.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The 2023 vintage is receiving high praise for its focus and "crunchy" fruit:

• Decanter: 92 Points – "A lightly edgy nose of nutmeg-dusted red fruit... fleshy, balanced palate with juicy raspberry."

• Wine Enthusiast: 91 Points – "Tart cranberries, pomegranate, and red apple skin... delivers a fresh, lively wine with a peppery edge."

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) is a good bit lighter and brighter than last year, unsurprising given the conditions of this long, cool growing season. Layers of rose petal, sweet black cherry, asphalt, crushed rocks and blood orange unfurl in a nicely focused, elegant wine with sweet tannins and a sexy finish.

James Suckling 92 Points | A racy beam of acidity runs through raspberries, cranberries and red cherries. That mouthwatering fruit is wrapped up in anise, grilled sage and tilled earth. Balanced, rich and full of life. Drink or hold.

Jezreel Valley Winery Nahalal Red — Israel 2024

The Nahalal is Jezreel Valley Winery's homage to the first worker's settlement in Israel — an ode to the land, the labor, and the tradition of winemaking that has defined this region for generations. A blend of Syrah and Carignan sourced from the sun-drenched Jezreel Valley, each variety is picked, fermented, and aged separately to honor the individuality of the terroir before being blended with precision. After 14 months in mostly used French oak, the result is a wine that is light, vibrant, and unmistakably Mediterranean in spirit. Kosher and Mevushal.

The nose is exuberant and fruit-forward: ripe red cherry, fresh strawberry, and a hint of warm spice. On the palate, it is dry and medium-bodied with bright acidity, a silky texture, and a clean, refreshing finish that makes it as at home on a sunny afternoon as it is at the dinner table. Unlike many heavy, oak-dominant Israeli reds, the Nahalal is built for pleasure and accessibility — a wine that drinks beautifully from the moment it is opened.

• Producer: Jezreel Valley Winery, Jezreel Valley, Israel
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Jezreel Valley
• Blend: Syrah, Carignan
• Vinification: Separate fermentation by variety, 14 months in mostly used French oak
• Certification: Kosher • Mevushal
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red cherry, strawberry, warm spice, bright acidity, silky texture, clean finish
• Best Paired With: Mediterranean lamb kebabs, gourmet pizza, roasted chicken with olives, spiced Middle Eastern dishes

A sunny, food-friendly Kosher red built for the table — Jezreel's Nahalal is the benchmark for what vibrant, approachable Israeli wine can be.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The young, creamy and juicy 2019 Petra is pure Garnacha that fermented in concrete with indigenous yeasts and matured in well-seasoned, neutral oak barrels for 15 months, including malolactic. There is a lactic touch and some notes of cereals here that interferes a bit with the purity of Garnacha. It's medium-bodied and has moderate ripeness at 13.5% alcohol, revealing good freshness and acidity and a pH of 3.6.

The Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | Deep garnet in color, this single-varietal Garnacha has a nose of black cherry, caramel and nutmeg. Bright fruit and soft baking spice flavors wrapped in silky tannins enliven the palate and drift into a cranberry and orange-zest finish.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2019 Petra de Valpiedra is 100% Garnacha sourced from a single vineyard next to the Ebro River, in the Cenicero area of Rioja Alta. Aged for 1nine months in American and French oak barrels, it displays a garnet hue and presents aromas reminiscent of liqueur, with hints of herbs and ash overlaying a fruit layer. On the palate, it is dry and edgy, with tannins that are fairly searing, leaving a lingering impression of balsamic notes.

James Suckling 92 Points | Aromas of baked raspberries and strawberries with spicy and earthy touches. Medium- to full-bodied with powdery tannins and a soft texture. Firm finish. Drink or hold.

Memo Summary Notes

The Finca Valpiedra Rioja Garnacha Petra de Valpiedra 2019 is a highly praised, single-varietal Garnacha (Grenache) from the Rioja Alta sub-region. It is part of a premium, limited-edition line from the respected Finca Valpiedra winery.

The 2019 vintage is noted for combining the power of Garnacha with great freshness and elegance, making it an excellent example of modern, high-quality Rioja.

The wine's silky texture and savory complexity make it versatile:

• Meat: Grilled lamb, roast duck, or white meats such as turkey and pheasant.

• Spanish Classics: Aged Manchego cheese.

• Other: Fish stews (like tuna marmitako), rice dishes, and mushroom risotto.

The Finca Valpiedra Rioja Garnacha Petra de Valpiedra 2019 is an outstanding example of premium, single-vineyard Garnacha from Rioja, praised for its elegance, freshness, and complexity.

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

James Suckling 90 Points | I love the blue fruit and violet brightness of this amply structured medium- to full-bodied Israeli red. Some bitter chocolate and black licorice character, too. Moderately dry with crisp acidity at the long, straight finish.

Memo Notes

Jezreel Valley Winery is a modern and highly acclaimed boutique winery located on Kibbutz Hanaton in the fertile Jezreel Valley of the Lower Galilee, Israel. It is celebrated for its commitment to creating distinctly Israeli, Mediterranean-style wines and for its pioneering work with local grape varietals.

Truly Israeli Wine: Established in 2011, the winery's core vision is to craft wines that perfectly suit the Israeli climate and palate, moving away from imitation of traditional European styles.

Jezreel is best known for its red blends and its commitment to the indigenous Argaman grape.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

James Suckling 92 Points | Restrained and ambitiously structured, showing some roasted coffee beans, pine cones and sweet spices to the rich blackberries and cherries. Juicy and chewy on the palate with fine-grained tannins and a tight, lengthy finish. Drink from 2025.

Decanter 91 Points | Plummy fruit on the nose, with smoky bacon fat nuances and jammy fruit notes. Powerful and textural, long and pleasant.

Jezreel Valley Winery Alfa — Lower Galilee, Israel 2024

The Alfa is Jezreel Valley Winery's bold statement from the fertile Jezreel Valley in Lower Galilee — one of Israel's most talked-about boutique producers, based on Kibbutz Hanaton. A blend of Syrah, Argaman, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the Alfa is built for intensity and depth while remaining true to the Mediterranean terroir that defines this region. Jezreel has earned strong scores from critics including James Suckling and Decanter, and has become a fixture in top restaurants both domestically and internationally. At $24.99, it delivers excellent quality for the price. Kosher.

Bruised blackberry and cassis open on the nose alongside tangy red cherry and strawberry. On the palate, red fruit shines with velvety, persistent tannins that lay the groundwork for a long, satisfying finish. Rich, structured, and unmistakably Mediterranean — this is a wine that craves the table.

“Bruised blackberry and cassis aromas open on the nose along with tangy red cherry and strawberry. Red fruit shines on the palate while velvety, persistent tannins lay the groundwork for the long finish.” — Reggie Solomon, The Wine Enthusiast 91 Points (Prior Vintage - 2021).

• Producer: Jezreel Valley Winery, Kibbutz Hanaton, Lower Galilee, Israel
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Galilee, Israel
• Blend: Syrah, Argaman, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Certification: Kosher
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, cassis, red cherry, strawberry, velvety tannins, long finish
• Best Paired With: Steak, grilled meats, roasted mushrooms, lamb, hearty Mediterranean dishes

Bold, structured, and exceptional value — Jezreel's Alfa is the benchmark for what ambitious Kosher Israeli red wine can be.

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2021

Vinous 94 Points (Audrey Frick): Opens with rosemary, Mediterranean herbs, ripe cherries, and forest earth. Medium to full-bodied and classic in style, with well-defined tannins, bright acidity, and a long finish that keeps it fresh and balanced. Showing very well today and should drink beautifully over the next 15 years or more. Drink 2026–2041.

Winemaker Description

Le Ragnaie is perched at high elevation just south of the hill of Montalcino, led by Ricardo and Jennifer Campinoti. The estate produces some of the most compelling single-vineyard expressions of Brunello, with clarity, focus, and distinction between each cru. This 2021 is sourced from a selection of top vineyard sites, fermented in concrete with 35 days of skin contact, then aged three years in large Slavonian oak casks. Lifted aromas of dark cherry, ripe plum, and subtle spice, with a graceful, structured palate, fine-grained tannins, and a long, elegant finish.

Previous vintage (2020) earned 95pts Wine Advocate, 94pts Jeb Dunnuck, 93pts James Suckling & Vinous.

Pairing Suggestions

• Red Meat: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised short ribs, or lamb.
• Game: Wild boar, venison, or duck.
• Cheese: Aged Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Taleggio.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 97 Points | So pretty, charming and elegant, with floral aromas, light tannins and quiet vibrancy. Fresh raspberries, sour cherries, red cherries, rose petals and minerals give it complexity and appeal. Finesse, nerve and great balance. Drink now or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | A bright red color, the 2023 Pinot Noir Roserock Zephirine offers focused and expressive notes of wild raspberries, framboise, rosy perfume, and sweet herbs. Medium-bodied, it has ripe tannins and an approachable feel, with its underlying mineral focus shining through the midpalate and finish. It’s delicious now but will only improve over the next 6-7 years and drink well over the coming 15 years.

Vinous 93 Points | The 2023 Pinot Noir Zéphirine wafts up with an understated blend of dried flowers, spiced citrus and wild strawberries. A stern mineral core and brisk acidity enliven the tart wild berry fruits. Youthful tension pinches at the cheeks, leaving angular tannins and admirable freshness.

Winemaker Description 

The wine has been crafted from grapes cultivated at La Planta estate, owned by Arzuaga Navarro’s family in Quintanilla de Onésimo, the heart of Ribera del Duero. The soil is clay-calcareous and the subsoil is pure limestone at one meter under the surface. The vineyard altitude is 911 meters above sea level. These specific conditions provide distinct features of the wine.

The wine boasts a deep violet red color. Clean and bright with a range of red fruits (raspberry and cherry) that dominate with a high aromatic intensity, joined by balsamic, cacao, coffee, and roasted tones. Fresh, elegant, easy, and balanced in the mouth with a lightly sweet, toasted, and pleasant aftertaste.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

Decanter 94 Points | Refined and elegant with dark cherry, raspberry and purple florals overlaid by wild herb and balsamic hints. Sapid, stony and bright with gentle power, fine structure and a quietly unfolding complexity.

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | From loess parcels, the 2021 Pinot Noir TS is from the Tschuppen. The purple-ruby colored wine opens with clear, fresh, well-defined cherry aromas with tart floral notes. Silky, fresh and elegant on the palate, this is a saline, tight and mineral, beautifully refreshing and tart-finishing Pinot Noir with tight but fine tannins and serious mineral acidity. From a remarkable terroir, this is a thirst-quenching Pinot of remarkable character, bone dry but irresistible. 12% stated alcohol. Tasted at the domaine in February 2024.

Importer Memo Notes 

Site: Tschuppen is a site at the top of the hill, loess over loam soils, vines are 12-20 years old.
Fermentation: Spontaneous  in stainless steel
Maceration: 6 Weeks on skins
Whole Cluster: 70% destemmed
Elevage: 2 years in large fuder, bottled without filtration

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 94 Points | A brilliant, composed and polished wine from Tony Soter that captures fresh, pure fruit flavors on an elegant texture. Strawberry, black cherry and subtle pine aromas lead to tangy red cherries, orange zest and creme de cassis on the palate. A medium body and moderate tannins complete the picture. Made from certified sustainable grapes. Drink now or hold.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Graceful and elegantly crafted, with fragrant raspberry and pomegranate flavors laced with black tea and tarragon as this glides on the sleek finish. Drink now through 2033.

Winemaker Description 

The 'Estates' wines represents our fascination with the breadth of great vineyard sites located throughout the Northern Willamette Valley. This wine is comprised of Pinot Noir entirely from our Estate holdings, which includes but is no longer limited to our flagship property, Mineral Springs Ranch. DETAILS 200 cases produced 100% Pinot Noir 30% Mineral Springs Vineyard, Yamhill-Carlton, Certified Biodynamic Demeter, Organic CCOF 50% Ribbon Ridge Estate, Certified Organic CCOF 20% Tarren Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills, Certified Organic CCOF FERMENTATION & AGING 30 days extended maceration 35% new French oak 25% Whole Clusters Aged 10 months in barrel.

Expressive and layered, the 2023 Estates Pinot Noir bursts with exuberant red berries and tart cranberry, leading into a plush, velvety mid-palate. Silky, integrated tannins provide structure, while hints of pencil lead and a whisp of fresh pine add a savory, woodsy complexity. Sappy and round, with a note of licorice weaving through the finish, this wine lingers with depth and quiet intrigue.

Memo Summary Notes

The earthy and bright fruit profile of this wine makes it versatile:

• Poultry: Roasted chicken with herbs or duck breast with a cherry reduction.

• Earthy Dishes: Wild mushroom risotto or grilled salmon with a miso glaze.

• Vegetarian: Roasted root vegetables or lentil stews.

#85 James Suckling Top 100 Wines of the World 2025

Blend: 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot

Expert Reviews

100 Points  Jeb Dunnuck: A sensational Pauillac as well as the finest wine from this château since the 2009 (although the 2010 might have something to say about that), the 2022 Château Pontet-Canet sports a deep purple hue as well as a heavenly perfume of crème de cassis, smoke, incense, leafy tobacco, and chocolate. This beauty has sensational purity, a deep, layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, flawless balance, and incredible precision and detail in its aromas and flavors. Despite its opulence and power, it has a solid underlying structure, and its tannins are sweet and polished; it has remarkable depth and concentration, and it just does everything right. It should have 40, 50, if not 60 years of overall longevity. The 2022 is based on 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, brought up in 50% new barrels, 35% in amphora, and the rest in once-used oak.

99 Points by James Suckling: The concentration of dried herbs such as thyme, sage and mint with blackcurrants and Spanish cedar is mesmerizing. Full-bodied with a dense and intense palate, this has creamy, crunchy tannins and a long and flavorful finish that goes on for minutes. Punchy and rich with lots of power. The real identity of Pontet-Canet comes through despite the hot and dry growing year. 57% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot. From biodynamically grown grapes.

95 Points by Decanter Magazine: Vibrant, vivid purple colour in the glass, rich and deep. Smells bright, super fresh and expressive on the nose with freshly-picked blackcurrants and perfumed purple flowers - the Petit Verdot, really standing out. Clean and clear, creamy, powdery and softly chewy on the palate. The texture is lovely, you can tell they haven't over extracted but there’s still clear concentration with a gentle succulence provided by the acidity, cool freshness and appealing mineral touches alongside liquorice, clove, dried herbs and bitter chocolate. Enjoyable and well defined if still a little compact. 3.85pH. 4% Cabernet Franc completes the blend. 15% press wine used. Harvest 8 - 28 September, the earliest and longest ever. 20% lower yields than in 2021. The technical team used a clay sunscreen on the grapes to avoid burning. Tasted twice. Barrel Sample: 95

Winery Information

For over three centuries, Château Pontet-Canet has been owned by just three families, showcasing exceptional stability and uniqueness as a premier Bordeaux estate. Today, the winery is run by the Tesseron family, with Alfred Tesseron as owner and his daughter Justine Tesseron as CEO.

Château Pontet-Canet is the first major Bordeaux estate certified organic and a pioneer in biodynamic farming, cultivating grapes without chemical treatments. To further protect the vineyard soils, the estate uses Percheron workhorses instead of heavy tractors on half of its vineyard — a true blend of tradition and innovation.

Winemaker Description 

With the name Bàrbara Forés, the marriage of Carmen Ferrer and Manuel Sanmartín wanted to pay tribute to their great-grandmother Bárbara Forés, who was born in Gandesa on February 7, 1828.

Bárbara Forés, the daughter of a wine merchant (Rafael Forés) and an agricultural owner (Maria Figueras), was a person of great character and had a decisive influence on her son Rafael.

Rafael Ferrer Forés, a pharmacist and illustrious winegrower, constructed the cellar of the manor house where he began bottling wine at the end of the 19th century.

Bárbara Forés, therefore, represents respect and tradition in the production of wines, passed down from generation to generation for more than a hundred years in their house.

The 2023 Ridge Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon marks the first return of this historic cuvée since 2007 — a blend of Monte Bello estate fruit and neighboring vineyards (Bates Ranch, Fellom Ranch, Vidovich), aged 16 months in 100% American oak. A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot, it is a superb access point to the Ridge house style at a more approachable price.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Owen Bargreen — 93 Points | Refined and elegant on the tongue, as toasty oak caresses a gorgeous core of dark currants, black cherry compote, and espresso bean notes alongside gravelly soils. Very fresh and vibrant with terrific acidity. Drink 2025–2035.

Vinous — 93 Points | Taut and structured, opening with dark fruit, cracked pepper, smoked meat, tobacco leaf, and cedar, all enshrouded in firm, chalky tannins that lead to a long, savory finish. A very fine access point to the Ridge house style. — Billy Norris

Wine Enthusiast — 93 Points + Cellar Selection | Aromas of black plum, clove, and ajwain draw in the nose, while the palate picks up licorice and more black plum alongside a firm structure. — Matt Kettmann

Wine Advocate — 92 Points | A lush nose of sweet black fruits, pine needles, sage, and a gourmand touch of vanilla pod introduces a soft, velvety, and pliable palate, ending with a pure, mouthwatering finish. A solid, accessible, and over-performing example of Santa Cruz Mountain Cabernet. — Matthew Luczy

Wine Spectator — 92 Points | Lively singed mesquite and savory notes up front, with juicy red currant, bitter cherry, and plum coulis held in check by nicely chiseled tannins. Best from 2027 through 2038. — James Molesworth

• Producer: Ridge Vineyards
• Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, California
• Vineyards: Monte Bello Estate + Bates Ranch, Fellom Ranch, Vidovich
• Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot
• Aging: 16 months, 100% American oak
• Farming: Organic
• Vintage: 2023
• Drink: Now through 2038
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description 

Vibrant, focused, and expressive, with flavors of allspice, huckleberry and underbrush, our Cabernet mirrors the terrior of Redwood Valley's complex ecosystem. Graceful tannins sustain a velvety mouthfeel, with subtle violet notes on the finish. Pair with New York steaks and Gorgonzola butter or wild mushroom risotto.

High-altitude, volcanic red that captures the wild beauty of Mt. Etna’s northern slopes. Made primarily from Nerello Mascalese and other native Sicilian varieties, this wine is lifted and aromatic, with notes of red berries, herbs, crushed stone, and spice. Elegant yet energetic, "Quota N" reflects Eduardo’s low-intervention style and deep respect for Etna’s terroir. A pure and soulful expression of Sicilian winemaking.

Eduardo acquired this flat, half-hectare parcel of ungrafted, 80 to 100 year-old, co-planted bush vines. The vines are a a field blend of of red and white grapes. 

It is surrounded by stone walls at the high elevation of 1070 meters in the contrada. The parcel is named Germana for its historical family owner.Eduardo was not allowed to use this name and was also not permiited to use the Nave contrada name, because the site is too high to fall within DOC Etna Rosso rules.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2021

• Wine Enthusiast 94 Points | Deep, dark and tempting core of black fruits and oak spices, surrounded by the velvety, welcoming texture expected from a Merlot. Blackberries, blueberries, toasted wood and cedar bring complexity on the palate and linger on the finish. Best through 2030.
• Wine Spectator 88 Points | Tightly structured and focused, displaying red and black currant flavors laced with notes of cedar and herbes de Provence as this builds toward firm tannins. Best after 2024. 2,427 cases made.

Winemaker Description

The 2021 Alexander Valley Merlot offers notes of violets, marionberries and fresh plums with hints of black cardamom pods, cedar, green tobacco and white sage. Medium-to-full bodied with silky smooth texture and supple tannins.

Food Pairings

• Braised short ribs or lamb chops
• Roasted duck or herb-crusted pork tenderloin
• Aged cheddar, Gouda, or mushroom-based dishes

Product Details

• Producer: Matanzas Creek Winery
• Grape: Merlot
• Appellation: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2021
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description 

Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, Sonsierra Crianza is the perfect companion. Aged for 12 months in oak barrels, it offers a balanced blend of ripe fruits, vanilla, and cocoa. Ideal with meats, legumes, or semi-cured cheeses. A wine that’s always a great choice!

The Sonsierra Crianza is a classic expression of 100% Tempranillo, made from carefully selected grapes hand-harvested from the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria in the heart of Rioja Alta. These vineyards benefit from ideal conditions that ensure the production of high-quality grapes, creating a wine that balances tradition with a modern winemaking approach.

The winemaking process starts with a cold maceration of 24 hours, followed by an 8-day fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature to extract the best fruity aromas. After fermentation, the wine undergoes 12 months of aging in oak barrels (70% American oak and 30% French oak), where it gains its characteristic complexity and balance. Finally, the wine rests for a minimum of 3 months in the bottle, allowing its flavors to mature and harmonize.

With a bright ruby-red color, the Sonsierra Crianza opens with a complex bouquet of ripe red fruits, combined with hints of vanilla, cocoa, and toasted coffee from its time in the barrel. On the palate, it is smooth and balanced, with well-integrated tannins and a long, lingering finish that evokes flavors of ripe fruit and vanilla.

Domaine Georges Lignier Chambolle-Musigny — Burgundy 2022

Domaine Georges Lignier’s Chambolle-Musigny is one of the quiet gems of the Côte de Nuits — and the 2022 vintage may be its finest expression yet. Sourced from a prime 0.71-hectare parcel of 70-year-old vines straddling the “Les Drazey” and “Les Bussières” vineyards, just below the Premier Cru “Les Sentiers” and adjacent to the Bonnes Mares grand cru, this is village Burgundy that performs well above its appellation. Matured in small oak barrels — none new — to preserve the purity and transparency of the Pinot Noir. James Suckling awarded it 93 points, calling it “a very charming Chambolle-Musigny village wine with a lot of floral finesse.”

The nose is classically Chambolle: red flowers, ripe cherry, wild raspberry, and a whisper of forest floor. On the palate, it is sweet and silky — warm, powdery tannins deftly supporting a long, polished finish with remarkable depth for a village-level wine. The ancient vines and ideal location produce a complexity that elevates this far beyond what one would expect from a Villages bottling.

James Suckling 93 — “Sweet and silky, this is a very charming Chambolle-Musigny village wine with a lot of floral finesse, the warm, powdery tannins deftly supporting the long, polished finish.”

• Producer: Domaine Georges Lignier, Morey-Saint-Denis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chambolle-Musigny AOC
• Vineyards: Les Drazey & Les Bussières — 0.71ha, 70-year-old vines, red soil
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vinification: Aged in small oak barrels, no new oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red flowers, cherry, wild raspberry, forest floor, silky tannins, long polished finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–12 years
• Best Paired With: Roast duck, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, aged Comté, rabbit in mustard sauce

Silky, floral, and unmistakably Chambolle — Domaine Georges Lignier’s village bottling is the benchmark for what old-vine Burgundy can deliver at this level.

Winemaker Description 

Dry Riesling produced from grapes from a single block, delicate with tropical fruits and a crisp finish.

Awards & Ratings:

93 points, Wine Silver 2023 – International Wine and Spirits Competition (2018 vintage)

93 points / Silver Medal – Decanter World Wine Awards 2020. 

90 points / “Best Buy” – Wine Enthusiast 2020. 

90 points – Tim Atkin MW

89 points – JamesSuckling.com