Red Wine

Baron Herzog Winery · California · Kosher 2024

Baron Herzog Winery has been crafting approachable, high-quality kosher wines in California since 1985. Named after the Herzog family — wine merchants with roots stretching back to 19th-century Slovakia — the winery draws from top California appellations to produce kosher wines that compete with the best in the state. Baron Herzog Merlot is sourced from selected vineyards across California's premier growing regions and is fully certified Kosher for Passover.

Bold and richly textured, the 2024 Merlot opens with inviting aromas of red cherry and strawberry jam, with a soft, plush mid-palate. A touch of oak weaves in hints of mocha and warm spice on the finish, adding complexity without weight. Smooth, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly versatile at the table.

• Producer: Baron Herzog Winery
• Vintage: 2024
• Region: California, United States
• Grape Variety: Merlot
• Certification: Kosher, Kosher for Passover
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red cherry, strawberry jam, mocha, warm spice, soft tannins
• Food Pairings: Roast chicken, lamb chops, pasta with tomato sauce, soft cheeses

A reliable everyday kosher Merlot — drink now through 2027.

Winemaker Description

Israel. Very elegant, taking local terroir and making some good work with it - the blend with mostly Zinfandel, and a bit of Syrah and Petit Syrah creating balanced and rich wine. Some plum, black fruits, licorice and hints of red fruits.

Asufa is our winemaker Guy Eshel’s personal playground at Dalton Winery; A series of moments and memories gathered throughout his time in the field, brought to life together here at Dalton. Each wine in this series tells a different story – some of the here and now, others of a time and place elsewhere – but all were made to add color and complexity to your dining experiences. Winemaker Description.

Winemaker Notes:

Campo di Camagi is one of the three labels of 100% Cabernet Franc produced by Andrea Franchetti from 2014, who wanted to devote the utmost attention to this historic grape of Bordeaux, enhancing its characteristics in relation to three different terroir of the estate. It is produced exclusively with grapes from a single plot of 1.5 hectares composed of a thin layer of quartz and limestone. The 27 year old vines struggle to grow in this space, the stems do not grow, the roots have filled it.

Expert Reviews 

Monica Larner writes:   Made with Cabernet Franc, the Tenuta di Trinoro 2020 Campo di Camagi shows a level of sharpness and precision that you don't get as clearly in the other wines in this series of single-vineyard releases. There is more oak spice with redwood and cedar, along with crushed granite and pencil shaving. The wine is linear and delivers big intensity to the palate, and it has the structure and acidity to accompany a long drinking window.  Drinking 2024 2045  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 95+

James Suckling writes:  So perfumed with violets and lavender with some currants. Medium- to full-bodied with polish and finesse. Racy and fine. Finesse with drive. Very elegant and straightforward with a racy texture. Very long and lightly edgy. 92% cabernet franc and 8% merlot. Drink after 2027 but already beautiful.  - James Suckling 96

Bruce Sanderson writes:  A spicy red, featuring a beam of black currant and blackberry fruit shaded by violet, black pepper, iron and mint. Lithe and ends with a line of resonant tannins on the tobacco-tinged finish. Cabernet Franc. Best from 2025 through 2038. 166 cases made, 65 cases imported.  Wine Spectator 94

Jancis Robinson writes:  Racy, lively and a little fragile and delicate. Tense.  Drinking 2024 - 2034  - Jancis Robinson 17.5

Winemaker Description

Deep dark purple in color. Leather on the nose. Black plums with tannins and a little heat on the palate. It's medium-bodied with a cleaner finish than you expect it to be. Let it open up a little for the most enjoyment. Pair with grilled meats.

Winemaker Descrption 

Milan Nestarec Youngster Red is a red natural wine made from a blend of Zweigelt, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Dornfelder. The grapes are hand-harvested and destemmed. The juice ferments in 2000-liter stainless steel tanks. The wine ferments for about 2 months, with occasional pigeage and indigenous yeast fermentation. Elevage takes place in the same tanks for about 2 months. The wine is bottled unfiltered, unfined, and with zero sulfur added.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018

Wine Spectator 93 Points | This is richly layered, with cassis, crushed plum and blackberry puree flavors moving through slowly but steadily, while warm earth, ganache and black licorice notes follow along. Picks up a tarry edge on the finish as the fruit takes an encore. For fans of the muscular, fruit-driven style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2022 through 2036. (2018). 

Wine Advocate 97 Points | The 2018 Insignia is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc. The vineyard sources this year include: 30% Las Rocas (Stags Leap District),18% Yountville (Oak Knoll District), 13% Banca Dorada (Rutherford), 18% Suscol (South Napa Valley), 14% Home Ranch (St. Helena), 12% Las Rocas (Stags Leap District), 7% Barboza (Stags Leap District). It was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes storming out of the glass with powerful notes of blackcurrant cordial, stewed black plums and boysenberries, plus hints of cedar chest, graphite, menthol and wet slate with a fragrant waft of clove oil. The medium to full-bodied palate already demonstrates remarkable balance at this youthful stage, featuring a firm backbone of fine-grained tannins and bold freshness to support the tightly wound, crunchy black fruits, finishing long and spicy. (2018).

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | Very much in the style of the vintage with its pure, concentrated, yet also elegant and focused style, the 2018 Insignia offers up a vivid purple hue to go with lots of red and blue fruits, menthol, tobacco, graphite, and distinct minerality. With an almost Bordeaux-like style, medium to full-bodied richness, present tannins, and a great finish, it's a beautiful, classic Cabernet Sauvignon blend from this team that's going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for two decades or more. (2018). 

James Suckling 99 Points | Blackberry and black chocolate with mint, conifer and clove. Sweet tobacco, violets and flowers, too. Some graphite. Cool and complex. Full-bodied with ultra fine, dusty tannins and a wonderful, extremely long finish. Savory and refined. A classic-styled 2018. This needs time, but is so approachable and gorgeous. One of the best Insignias ever. Alive and changing all the time. 40% Stags Leap AVA. 87% cabernet sauvignon, 8% petit verdot, 3% malbec and 2% cabernet franc. Leave this for five or six years, but so wonderful now. (2018). 

Winemaker Description

A medium-bodied Pinot Noir with remarkable floral, cherry and raspberry aromas. In the mouth, bright fruit flavors with a wonderful texture and extraordinary acidity. Smooth and balanced with a long, silky and velvety finish.

Expert Review

92 Points Wine Spectator | A medium-bodied red with aromas of wild raspberries, porcini, dried herbs and smoked meat. Powdery, fine tannins with a chalky feel. Concentrated and taut with a savory, mineral finish. Drink or hold. (2019)

Icardi Barbaresco Montubert Organic 2020 750ml

A benchmark Barbaresco from one of Piedmont's most principled organic estates. The Icardi family has farmed without herbicides or pesticides since 1914, and the Montubert vineyard expresses the full nobility of Nebbiolo — structured, aromatic, and built to age gracefully.

James Suckling 93 Points: Red-fruited and spiced with crushed walnuts and licorice. Medium-bodied with polished, delicate tannins. Fresh and vivid fruit character with a polished mineral finish and hints of citrus peel and dried herbs.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points: Sweetly spiced and charming, showing aromas of candied cherries, allspice, cedar, and mixed wild herbs. Elegant tannins with flavors of dried cranberries and dried orange peel. Drink now–2035.

Wine Spectator 90 Points: Savory with juniper, eucalyptus, and mint accenting a cherry, strawberry, and floral core. Lean and taut with dusty tannins. Best from 2027 through 2042.

Food Pairings

• Braised short ribs, osso buco, and slow-roasted lamb
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and hard cheeses
• Truffle pasta, mushroom risotto, and game meats
• Roasted duck and venison

Wine Details

• Varietal: Nebbiolo
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2020
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Producer: Icardi

Frog’s Leap has been making Zinfandel in Napa Valley for decades, and this 2021 is a masterclass in restraint and elegance — a world away from the overripe, high-alcohol style that defined California Zin for so long. Using their signature technique of cold-soaking the Petite Sirah portion of the co-ferment before infusing it into the fermenting Zinfandel ten days later, the winemaking team locks in freshness and accentuates the wine’s natural elegance. A dash of Carignane adds acidity and structure, while aging largely in small concrete tanks preserves the wine’s vibrancy. The result is deeply flavored, beautifully balanced, and genuinely fresh — equally compelling with a slight chill on a summer evening or after a few years in the cellar.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

“Mouthwatering and delicious with crisp acidity and a driving finish, this wine offers a pleasing range of flavors including mixed cherries, cranberries, warming spices and savory accents. Both friendly and beguiling, it has pleasing approachability and depth. Firm while moderate tannins and mouthwatering acidity create a palate-cleansing accompaniment to a wide range of foods.” — 94 pts, Wine Enthusiast

“A medium-bodied, juicy and succulent zinfandel with aromas of dark cherries, plums, wild berries and mixed herbs. Well-rounded with a caressing texture and a satisfying wild berry character toward the finish.” — 90 pts, James Suckling

Varietal: Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignane
Vintage: 2021
Region: Napa Valley, California
Farming: Dry Farming 
Bottle Size: 750ml

Abadía Retuerta — Pago Negralada Single Vineyard Tempranillo 2018

Appellation: DO Abadía Retuerta, Sardón del Duero, Castilla y León, Spain | Varietal: Tempranillo | Format: 750ml

Few estates in Spain carry the singular distinction of their own Designation of Origin. Abadía Retuerta — built around a historic 12th-century abbey on the banks of the Duero — earned that honor in 2022, cementing its place among the Iberian Peninsula’s most serious fine wine producers. Led by Bordeaux-trained enologist Dr. Ángel Anocibar, the estate combines scientific rigor with a deep respect for terroir, crafting wines of cosmopolitan elegance and genuine depth.

The Pago Negralada is the estate’s single-vineyard Tempranillo — a wine of place, not just variety. The 2018 vintage, from a cooler growing season, delivers a restrained, substantial expression: 60% aged in French oak barrels, the remainder in stainless steel to preserve freshness and precision.

Critical Acclaim

Vinous — Joaquín Hidalgo (September 2023): 93 Points
“Purple in hue. The aromas feature blackberry, blackcurrant, mint and hazelnut in a cedar frame. The palate is dry and plush with reactive tannins and a juicy flow. The 2018 is a restrained, substantial wine.”

Vineyard & Vinification

• Vineyard: Pago Negralada — single vineyard, DO Abadía Retuerta
• Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
• Vintage: 2018 (cooler growing season)
• Aging: 60% French oak barrels; 40% stainless steel vats
• Winemaker: Dr. Ángel Anocibar

Tasting Notes

Mid-to-high color intensity with a fragrant, complex nose of raspberries, redcurrants, and blackberries interwoven with spiced notes of clove, laurel, and black tea. Refreshing on the palate with bold structure, smooth tannins, and a very pleasing, long finish. A great Tempranillo from a cooler vintage in the classic style.

Food Pairings

Roasted lamb, Iberian suckling pig, aged Manchego, wild mushroom dishes, and slow-braised beef. Decant 30–45 minutes before serving.

Allegrini · Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG · Veneto · Italy · 2021

Allegrini is one of the Valpolicella Classico’s most celebrated families — a benchmark producer whose Amarone has become emblematic of Italian oenology, standing alongside Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino as one of the country’s great red wines. The 2021 is a true classic of the appellation: Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Oseleta grapes air-dried until at least December, checked daily for perfect health, then vinified with the patience and precision that only a family with generations of expertise can bring. Lengthy refining and aging yields a wine of imposing structure, depth, and the kind of complexity that rewards both the cellar and the table. Rated 94 by James Suckling and 93 by Decanter, Wine Enthusiast, and Wine Spectator.

The 2021 is still very youthful but with enormous potential. The nose is intense and classic — bay leaves, fresh black pepper, prunes, blood orange, tamarind, licorice, and plums simmering with herbs. On the palate, creamy and full-bodied with roasted peppercorn, crushed black cherry, espresso, thyme, and cocoa, framed by firm, velvety, fine-grained tannins and refreshing acidity. Long, fresh, and elegant on the finish with graphite and spice. Drink now through 2040.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

“Still very youthful, but with so much potential. Intense and zippy on the attack, there’s some wonderfully bright fruit fighting to break through the woody veil, with an orange peel halo. Beautifully balanced — but don’t open this yet!”
— Decanter · 93 Points

“This is what happens when earth meets elegance. Forest walks lead to a kitchen where plums simmer with herbs for wild game while cocoa adds its luxury touch. The palate keeps that old-school Amarone soul but adds modern polish, dusty tannins framing everything just right.”
— Wine Enthusiast · 93 Points · Cellar Selection

“Sleek and well-structured, offering flavors of crushed black cherry and black plum, black licorice, espresso, and thyme, all enmeshed with sculpted, fine-grained tannins. Long and fresh, with delicate notes of spices and graphite playing on the finish.”
— Wine Spectator · 93 Points

• Producer: Allegrini, Fumane, Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG
• Blend: 45% Corvina, 45% Corvinone, 5% Rondinella, 5% Oseleta
• Method: Appassimento — grapes air-dried until at least December; checked daily
• Style: Dry red — full-bodied, imposing structure, velvety tannins
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Bay leaf, black pepper, prune, blood orange, tamarind, licorice, espresso, cocoa, graphite, velvety tannins
• Cellar: Drink now through 2040
• Pairings: Braised short rib, wild boar ragù, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, venison, osso buco, dark chocolate

JS:94 · D:93 · WE:93 · WS:93 · Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG — Allegrini’s benchmark appassimento red. Imposing, complex, and built for the ages.

The 2023 The Eyrie Pinot Noir comes from the historic vineyard where The Eyrie Vineyards began—one of the foundational sites of Oregon Pinot Noir. Complex, structured and remarkably elegant, this limited-production bottling captures the character of old vines and the distinctive volcanic soils of the Dundee Hills with exceptional clarity. The Eyrie is the winery’s original vineyard and home to the hawks that inspired the Eyrie label. Its seven acres of Pinot Noir were planted from the mid-1960s through 1974 with Wädenswil, Pommard and Upright clones.

Situated between approximately 260 and 410 feet in elevation, the vineyard faces south while rolling toward eastern and western exposures. Eyrie identifies this historic site as the original planting of Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley. All of Eyrie’s estate vineyards are certified organic and farmed using regenerative, no-till practices. The emphasis is on maintaining healthy soils and biological diversity while allowing the vines and individual vineyard sites to express themselves with minimal intervention.

The 2023 vintage began with a cold, dry early spring followed by substantial April rainfall. A warm, dry summer with cool nights provided steady ripening, while late-August rains refreshed the vines ahead of an exceptionally favorable September harvest. Eyrie describes the resulting wines as vivid and aromatic, with moderate alcohol and firm yet balanced structure.

In the cellar, The Eyrie Pinot Noir is fermented with native yeast in small 11-hectoliter open-top fermenters and punched down by hand twice daily. It completes native malolactic fermentation before aging for 14 months in a blend of cooperage incorporating approximately 19% new oak. Eyrie uses essentially the same vinification for its single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, allowing differences in site, vine age, elevation and exposure to remain at the forefront.

The 2023 The Eyrie is dense and compact while retaining the graceful character for which the estate is known. Layers of ripe berries are joined by citrus, savory herbs and earthy nuances. The palate is full and firm but beautifully balanced, with restrained oak allowing the purity of the fruit and vineyard character to dominate. It is already compelling with generous aeration, yet its concentration and structure point toward significant cellar potential.

Expert Rating

96 Points — Paul Gregutt: Gregutt describes the 2023 as a particularly strong expression of Dundee Hills Pinot Noir, emphasizing its density, balance and tightly wound structure, along with a complex combination of berries, citrus, herbs and earth. He particularly notes the remarkably subtle influence of new oak and the purity of the underlying fruit. Only 236 cases were produced.

A compelling piece of Oregon wine history and an exceptionally distinctive Pinot Noir, The Eyrie combines old-vine depth with freshness, restraint and precision—a cellar-worthy expression of one of the Willamette Valley’s most historically important vineyard sites.

Region: Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Vineyard: The Eyrie
Clones: Wädenswil, Pommard & Upright
Elevation: Approximately 260–410 feet
Farming: Certified Organic / Regenerative No-Till
Fermentation: Native Yeast, Open-Top Fermenters
Aging: 14 Months, Approximately 19% New Oak
Alcohol: 13.98%
Production: 236 Cases
Bottle Size: 750ml

The 2023 Sisters Vineyard Pinot Noir is a beautifully detailed expression of one of The Eyrie Vineyards’ distinctive estate sites in Oregon’s Dundee Hills. Delicate yet expressive, it combines bright red fruit, floral perfume, savory earth and fine mineral character with the graceful structure that has long defined Eyrie Pinot Noir.

Sisters Vineyard sits at approximately 220 to 330 feet elevation and takes its name from the three original “Pinot sisters” planted there: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc. The Pinot Noir blocks include Pommard and Wädenswil clones, and the vineyard’s direct southern exposure helps produce wines known for their aromatic character and elegant balance. Eyrie farms its estate vineyards organically and employs regenerative, no-till farming practices designed to support healthy soils and vine biodiversity.

The 2023 growing season was dynamic, beginning with a cool, dry spring before substantial April rain and a warm, dry summer moderated by cool nights. Late-August rain refreshed the vines before an exceptionally favorable September harvest period. The resulting wines show vivid aromatics, moderate alcohol and firm but balanced structure.

In the cellar, the Sisters Vineyard Pinot Noir is fermented with native yeasts in small open-top fermenters, punched down by hand twice daily and allowed to complete native malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for 14 months in a mixture of cooperage, including approximately 19% new oak, allowing the character of the vineyard to remain at the forefront. Production was just 235 cases.

The wine is red-fruited, perfumed and finely textured, showing fresh red berries and subtle floral notes alongside orange peel, savory spice and earthy mineral nuances. Fresh acidity gives the light-to-medium-bodied palate energy and definition, while gently spicy tannins carry through a long, evolving finish.

Expert Rating

94 Points — James Suckling Red-fruited, delicate and perfumed. Light- to medium-bodied with fresh acidity, orange peel flavors and gently spicy tannins. The long finish evolves from bitter flowers to citrus to savory spices.

An elegant and highly expressive Oregon Pinot Noir, the 2023 Sisters Vineyard combines immediate aromatic appeal with enough freshness and structure to reward further time in the cellar.

Region: Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Vineyard: Sisters Vineyard
Farming: Certified Organic
Fermentation: Native Yeast
Aging: 14 Months, Approximately 19% New Oak
Alcohol: 14.15%
Production: 235 Cases
Bottle Size: 750ml

The 2023 Outcrop Vineyard Pinot Noir is a beautifully focused and distinctive expression of the Dundee Hills, combining bright red fruit, savory complexity and the stony mineral character that defines this unique Eyrie estate vineyard.

Outcrop Vineyard takes its name from the ridge of underlying rock that runs perpendicular to the hillside. Situated above Eyrie’s historic original vineyard, the five-acre site ranges from approximately 280 to 360 feet in elevation and faces north-northeast. The vineyard is planted to the Wädenswil clone of Pinot Noir, with vines dating from the early 1980s through 2000. Despite its northern exposure, reflected warmth from the neighboring original Eyrie vineyard helps ripen the fruit while preserving freshness and aromatic detail.

Eyrie farms its estate vineyards organically and practices regenerative, no-till viticulture, with particular attention to soil health and biodiversity. The vineyard’s thin, rocky volcanic soils contribute to the distinctive mineral and savory personality of Outcrop Pinot Noir.

For the 2023 vintage, Eyrie’s single-vineyard Pinot Noirs were vinified using native yeast in small open-top fermenters, with hand punch-downs and native malolactic fermentation, followed by approximately 14 months of aging. The single-vineyard wines are deliberately produced using the same cellar approach so that differences in vineyard, elevation, exposure and vine age remain clearly expressed in the finished wines.

The 2023 Outcrop is notably precise and mineral-driven, opening with raspberries and pomegranate alongside blood orange and subtle red licorice. A distinctive stony, almost steely mineral quality runs through the wine, while tea-like tannins add savory structure and grip. Elegant in weight yet firmly structured, it balances vivid fruit with earthy complexity and a long, textured finish.

Expert Rating

95 Points — Paul Gregutt Gregutt highlights the wine’s rocky, mineral character, raspberry and pomegranate fruit, blood orange and red licorice, with substantial tea-toned tannins supporting the finish. Only 198 cases were produced.

An expressive, site-driven Oregon Pinot Noir that beautifully demonstrates Eyrie’s restrained winemaking philosophy and the individual personality of one of its historic Dundee Hills vineyards.

Region: Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Vineyard: Outcrop Vineyard
Clone: Wädenswil
Elevation: Approximately 280–360 feet
Farming: Certified Organic / Regenerative No-Till
Fermentation: Native Yeast
Aging: Approximately 14 Months
Alcohol: 13%
Production: 198 Cases
Bottle Size: 750ml

Celler de Capçanes Peraj Petita Montsant Kosher 2024 is a vibrant Spanish red combining generous Mediterranean fruit with the distinctive character of Catalonia’s celebrated Montsant region.

A blend of 50% Garnacha, 20% Tempranillo, 15% Merlot and 15% Syrah, it opens with inviting aromas of ripe cherries, red currants and dark berries. Notes of sweet spice, vanilla and Mediterranean herbs emerge as the wine unfolds. The palate is juicy and fruit-forward, with a smooth texture, balanced freshness and supple tannins leading to a flavorful, gently spiced finish.

Peraj Petita is approachable enough to enjoy on its own yet has the depth and savory character to complement a wide variety of foods. Serve slightly below room temperature to bring out its freshness and expressive fruit.

Pairing: An excellent match for roast chicken, brisket, grilled lamb, burgers, meatballs, tomato-based pasta, roasted vegetables or a generous charcuterie platter. A versatile choice for Shabbat, Passover and festive gatherings.

Producer: Celler de Capçanes
Region: Montsant, Catalonia, Spain
Varietals: 50% Garnacha, 20% Tempranillo, 15% Merlot and 15% Syrah
Vintage: 2024
Bottle Size: 750ml
Certification: Kosher

Juicy · Ripe · Spiced · Smooth · Food-Friendly

A distinguished single-vineyard Brunello Riserva combining concentrated dark fruit, vibrant freshness and finely structured Tuscan elegance.

Wine Description

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2020 is a limited-production expression of Sangiovese from one of the estate’s most treasured vineyard sites. The wine takes its name from a historic vineyard situated beside an ancient monastery on the CastelGiocondo estate in southwestern Montalcino.

Located in the highest part of the estate at approximately 450 meters above sea level, the Ripe al Convento vineyard benefits from excellent sun exposure, cooling Mediterranean winds and mineral-rich marly soils. The vineyard extends across two sides of a ridge: its southern exposure contributes richness and power, while the southeast-facing vines bring freshness, tension and aromatic precision.

The 2020 Riserva presents a deep and layered bouquet of blackberry, blackcurrant, blueberry and Morello cherry, accompanied by rose, violet and subtle balsamic notes. With time in the glass, aromas of autumn spice, cocoa, tobacco, dried herbs and earth begin to emerge.

Generous and velvety on the palate, the wine balances concentrated dark fruit with lively acidity and an appealing crunchy-cherry character. Fine-grained yet confident tannins provide structure and definition, carrying the wine toward a long, savory and beautifully composed finish.

Winemaking and Aging

The Sangiovese grapes are carefully selected from the single Ripe al Convento vineyard and undergo an additional selection upon arrival at the winery. Fermentation takes place under controlled temperatures to preserve the character and aromatic detail of the fruit.

The wine is matured for 36 months in oak casks before further refinement in bottle. This extended aging gives the Riserva greater structure, complexity and longevity while allowing the fruit, tannins and savory elements to develop exceptional harmony.

Only approximately 18,000 bottles of the 2020 vintage were produced.

About Ripe al Convento

Ripe al Convento represents one of the most structured and age-worthy expressions produced at Tenuta CastelGiocondo. Its name refers both to the exceptional ripeness achieved by the Sangiovese grapes and to the vineyard’s location beside the estate’s historic monastery.

The combination of high elevation, favorable exposures and distinctive soils produces a Brunello Riserva of depth and power, balanced by the freshness, elegance and mineral character that distinguish the finest wines of Montalcino.

Expert Ratings

95  Wine Spectator: There’s plenty of black cherry and blackberry fruit in this red, along with mineral and black pepper notes, plus a touch of forest floor. Dense and even muscular for the vintage, with a vibrant feel and well-endowed, dusty tannins. Needs time to harmonize. Best from 2029 through 2045.

94 Decanter: The Ripe al Convento vineyard expands over two sides of a single ridge. Vines with a southern exposure give muscle to the blend while those facing southeast lend tension. The 2020 bottling demonstrates both facets within the gracious context of the vintage. Still restrained in aromas, it hints at smoke, thyme, mint and cocoa. Generous in girth, this oozes blackberry and blue plum with a velvety mouthfeel and carob accents. Confident tannins sport a fine grain and supply a satisfying bite. Lively acidity accentuates the salty tang. By no means austere but will be more expressive after another year in bottle.

94 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: In the bottle with the dark blue label, the Frescobaldi 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento shows dark fruit and blackberry at its core, followed by balanced freshness and an attractive crunchy cherry fruit character. This vintage is marked by lively fruit and slightly greater accessibility in terms of tannic impact. The wine can be enjoyed happily in the near or medium term. With 36 months of aging in oak casks, this is a release of 18,000 bottles. Ripe al Convento is sourced from a single vineyard adjacent to the historic monastery on the estate, and the Riserva bottling reflects both extended aging and a more structured interpretation of the vintage.

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for braised beef, roasted lamb, venison, wild boar, osso buco and bistecca alla Fiorentina. Its earthy, savory character also complements porcini mushrooms, truffle dishes, aged Pecorino Toscano and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Serving Suggestions

Serve at approximately 60–65°F in a large red-wine glass. Decanting for one to two hours is recommended when enjoying the wine in its youth. Although already approachable, its concentration, acidity and structured tannins will allow it to develop additional complexity with further bottle aging.

Wine Details

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2020

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany, Italy | 750ml

A Grand Cru-caliber Spätburgunder of extraordinary depth and finesse—wild red fruit, limestone minerality and Burgundian elegance from Ingelheim’s historic Pares vineyard.

Expert Rating

97 Points James Suckling: “Breathtaking nose of ripe wild berries and herbs, savory and a touch of sous bois. Great concentration and amazingly mouth-filling for just 12.5%, this is a German pinot noir masterpiece and one of the wines of the vintage! Staggering length, the finish still tightly wound. You need some patience to get the best this has to offer. From biodynamically grown grapes. 100% whole cluster, wild-fermented, then 18 months in small oak. Unfiltered and unfined. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.”  STUART PIGOTT — JAMES SUCKLING

The AdamsWein Pares Spätburgunder 2023 is one of Simone Adams’ most ambitious and profound Pinot Noirs, produced from the historic Pares vineyard in Ingelheim, Rheinhessen. Pares is recognized as a VDP.GROSSE LAGE, Germany’s equivalent of a Grand Cru vineyard, and is widely regarded as one of Ingelheim’s most important sites for Spätburgunder. AdamsWein itself is not a VDP member, however, so the estate cannot officially place “GG” on its label.

Situated at approximately 250 meters elevation on the western slope of the Mainzer Berg, Pares combines loess and sandy loam over a limestone base. The limestone gives the wine its unmistakable tension, mineral drive and finely structured finish, while the site’s elevation and exposure help preserve freshness and aromatic clarity.

Simone Adams’ parcel has an unusual history. The land had been abandoned for roughly three decades before Adams reclaimed and replanted it, using her own selections derived from traditional German Pinot material rather than relying on Burgundian clones. The result is a Spätburgunder with an identity distinctly its own—powerful and complex, yet unmistakably tied to Ingelheim.

The 2023 Pares sits at the pinnacle of the AdamsWein Pinot Noir range. It shows remarkable depth and intensity, with raspberry and ripe cherry at its core, surrounded by darker berry fruit, floral notes, savory spice and an earthy, limestone-derived mineral character. Gerstl describes an exceptionally noble aromatic expression, with Burgundian raspberry and cherry notes rising from considerable depth, and awarded the wine a perfect 20/20. Robert Parker awarded the 2023 Pares 95 points.

On the palate, the wine is layered and concentrated without becoming heavy. There is a compelling wildness to the fruit, but also tremendous clarity, freshness and precision. Fine tannins give the wine structure while vibrant acidity and chalky minerality keep everything focused through the long, persistent finish. A recent tasting at the estate singled out the 2023 Pares as the most complete of the single-vineyard wines, emphasizing its combination of depth, layered fruit and freshness.

Winemaking

The 2023 single-vineyard Spätburgunders at AdamsWein were made with 100% whole clusters and matured for approximately 18 months in barrel. Treating the vineyard wines similarly in the cellar allows the differences among Ingelheim’s individual sites to remain particularly transparent.

Adams favors spontaneous fermentation, restrained intervention and minimal sulfur. The estate does not filter or fine its wines, emphasizing purity of fruit and vineyard expression.

Organic & Biodynamic Farming

The 2023 Pares is certified organic, with German retailer Weinfurore specifically identifying the wine as coming from controlled organic cultivation and displaying certification DE-ÖKO-022.

AdamsWein began ecological soil cultivation in 2017 and converted the estate completely to biodynamic farming in 2020. U.S. importer Bowler Wine likewise categorizes AdamsWein’s Pares as biodynamically farmed.

About AdamsWein

Based in Ingelheim am Rhein, AdamsWein is run by Simone Adams, who took over her family estate in 2010. Her work focuses particularly on Burgundy varieties—Spätburgunder and Chardonnay—grown on Ingelheim’s limestone-rich soils. Production is small, yields are restrained and the wines are made with an emphasis on site transparency rather than extraction or overt winemaking.

Grape: 100% Spätburgunder / Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2023
Region: Rheinhessen, Germany
Village: Ingelheim am Rhein
Vineyard: Pares
Site Classification: VDP.GROSSE LAGE / Grand Cru vineyard
Style: Dry Red Wine
Alcohol: 12.5%
Farming: Certified Organic; Biodynamic
Vinification: 100% whole cluster
Élevage: Approximately 18 months in barrel
Robert Parker: 95 Points
Gerstl: 20/20

Character: Raspberry · Cherry · Wild Berries · Flowers · Spice · Limestone · Mineral

Food Pairing

A serious Pinot Noir suited to equally refined dishes: roast duck, venison, lamb, veal, beef tenderloin, roast chicken, wild mushrooms and truffle dishes. Its acidity and mineral structure also make it particularly compelling with richer poultry and game preparations.

Serving & Cellaring

Serve slightly cool at approximately 55–60°F (13–16°C). In its youth, this is a wine worth giving one to two hours in a decanter. Its structure and concentration point toward exceptional longevity; Gerstl gives a suggested drinking window of 2032–2060, although the wine is already impressive today. 

Silky, floral and intensely mineral Pinot Noir from Ingelheim—German Spätburgunder with remarkable Burgundy-like finesse.

Expert Rating

Vinous 94 Points: "The 2023 Spätburgunder Ingelheimer Auf dem Haun is from a west-facing, ventilated site on limestone with a high day-night amplitude. This was made with 100% whole bunches and spent 18 months in 20% new oak. Superb aroma on the nose sends out red flower petal notes, perhaps of peony, eglantine and a beautiful smattering of white pepper. It is exquisitely aromatic, wonderfully lifted, so floral and tender, yet profound and fresh, with a lovely depth. This is all tone, finesse, scent and poise. Its nature is totally disarming and the vivid scent is a killer. The 2023 is wonderful, enduring, bright, fine and silky. (Bone-dry)” — Anne Krebiehl MW, Vinous, July 2025

The AdamsWein Spätburgunder “Auf Dem Haun” 2023 is a superb single-vineyard Pinot Noir from Ingelheim in Rheinhessen, made by Simone Adams, one of Germany’s most compelling producers of Burgundian varieties. From limestone-rich soils at higher elevation, Auf dem Haun produces a particularly refined style of Spätburgunder—fragrant, mineral and beautifully poised rather than heavy or extracted.

The 2023 is immediately striking for its perfume. Delicate aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry and red berriesmingle with peony, rose petals and white pepper, followed by subtle earthy and savory notes. Vinous emphasizes the wine’s remarkable floral lift, freshness and depth, describing a Pinot built around tone, finesse, scent and poise.

On the palate, the wine is silky, precise and wonderfully energetic. Pure red fruit is framed by fine savory tannins and a distinctly saline mineral character. There is impressive concentration here, but everything remains graceful and transparent, with freshness carrying the wine through a long, mouthwatering finish. Wine Advocate likewise highlights its purity, red-cherry and strawberry character, fine tannins and persistent saline finish.

This is the kind of German Pinot Noir that makes the comparison with Burgundy especially compelling. It has the aromatic delicacy and textural refinement associated with fine Côte d’Or Pinot, yet retains the freshness and limestone-driven character of its Rheinhessen origins. The 2023 is already beautifully expressive, but its balance and structure suggest considerable potential for further development in bottle.

About the Vineyard

Auf dem Haun is one of Simone Adams’ prized Ingelheim parcels. The site sits relatively high on the slope and is distinguished by limestone-rich soils, which help produce wines with tension, freshness and pronounced mineral definition. Adams has increasingly focused her range around individual vineyard expressions, allowing differences in soil and exposition to become more transparent in the finished wines.

About AdamsWein

Based in Ingelheim am Rhein, AdamsWein is led by Simone Adams, whose Pinot Noir and Chardonnay have become particularly admired for their precision, moderate alcohol and distinctly Burgundian sensibility. The estate works organically and favors spontaneous fermentation and restrained cellar intervention, with the goal of allowing vineyard character to remain at the center of each wine.

Grape: 100% Spätburgunder / Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2023
Region: Rheinhessen, Germany
Village: Ingelheim am Rhein
Vineyard: Auf dem Haun
Style: Dry Red Wine
Alcohol: 12.5%
Farming: Organic

Character: Red Cherry · Wild Strawberry · Peony · White Pepper · Limestone · Saline · Silky

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for roast duck, chicken, pork tenderloin, veal, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes and earthy risottos. Its bright acidity and fine tannins also make it especially versatile with charcuterie and moderately rich cheeses.

Serving & Cellaring

Serve slightly cool at approximately 55–60°F (13–16°C). A young bottle will benefit from 30–60 minutes of air. While already wonderfully fragrant and silky, its balance, concentration and mineral structure should reward additional bottle age.

For those looking to experience the Vincent Paris style at a lower price point, Granit 30 is another exceptional find.

Named for the approximately 30-degree slopes on which its Syrah grows, Granit 30 offers a beautifully expressive introduction to Paris' Cornas: dark fruit, pepper, mineral character and the unmistakable granitic personality of the appellation.

It delivers the combination that makes Vincent Paris so compelling — Cornas intensity without heaviness, plenty of Northern Rhône character, and remarkable freshness and precision.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

96 Points James Suckling: A profound nose of cherries, crushed raspberries, roasted meat, cigar box, black pepper, warm spices and some bark and leather. Medium- to full-bodied with fine tannins. Expansive and spherical. Ample but refined in texture, with perfectly integrated structure at the edges and a vibrant, focused midpalate showing a bright, stony and peppery dimension. Quite spectacular for the vintage, with a very long, flinty finish. Drink or hold.

96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: Brilliant aromatics of blue fruits, fig, blood orange, pepper, and violet notes emerge from the medium-bodied 2024 Cornas La Geynale, which has a concentrated mouthfeel, building, ripe tannins, and a gorgeous finish. This reminds me of a great vintage of Clape Cornas! It sees a lot more stems and comes from the oldest vines of the estate, and it's going to need 4-5 years of bottle age. It's up there with the crème de la crème of the vintage. Barrel Sample: 94-96

95 Points Vinous:  The 2024 Cornas La Geynale hails from the glass with intense peppercorn, crushed rocks, fleshy tones and precisely ripe blackberry. Dried violets and earthy tones add more aromatic layers. Built like a skyscraper, the 2024 is a serious La Geynale in the making, lifting the finish with stupendous vitality. I can't wait to taste it once it's bottled. Barrel Sample: 93-95

Granit 30 is Vincent Paris’ vibrant, approachable expression of Cornas, produced from relatively young Syrah vines planted at both the lower and upper reaches of the appellation, from approximately 100 to 400 meters in elevation. The fruit comes in part from the Patou sector, where vines grow in decomposed granite soils at the base of the hillside, giving the wine freshness, finesse and an unmistakable mineral character.

Because the vines are younger than those used for Paris’ more powerful Cornas bottlings, the grapes are fully destemmed before fermentation. The wine undergoes approximately three weeks of maceration with gentle extraction, followed by 12 months of aging in used barrels. This restrained approach keeps the emphasis on pure Syrah fruit, spice and the granitic personality of Cornas rather than oak.

The 2024 Granit 30 shows a deep red color with aromas of blackberry and other dark fruits layered with black pepper, savory spice and subtle earthy notes. The palate is juicy and energetic, with ripe fruit, peppery complexity and supple, well-coated tannins.

Compared with Vincent Paris’ more structured Granit 60 and La Geynale bottlings, Granit 30 is especially inviting in its youth. It offers plenty of classic Cornas character—dark Syrah fruit, spice, freshness and mineral drive—while remaining polished, balanced and remarkably easy to enjoy.

The finish is long and savory, with lingering pepper, dark fruit and granite-derived freshness. It can be enjoyed relatively young for its exuberant fruit and supple texture, yet it has enough structure and balance to develop beautifully for more than a decade.

An excellent introduction to both Vincent Paris and the Cornas appellation, Granit 30 delivers genuine Northern Rhône character with impressive purity, freshness and value.

Producer: Domaine Vincent Paris
Vintage: 2024
Region: Northern Rhône, France
Appellation: Cornas AOC
Grape: 100% Syrah
Vineyards: Parcels at the lower and upper slopes of Cornas
Elevation: Approximately 100–400 meters
Soil: Granite and decomposed granite
Vinification: 100% destemmed; approximately three-week maceration with gentle extraction
Aging: 12 months in used oak barrels
Style: Dark-fruited, peppery, fresh and supple
Cellaring: Delicious young; capable of aging for 10+ years

La Geynale is Vincent Paris’ most prestigious Cornas, produced from an exceptional parcel of century-old Syrah vines planted on the steep, granite slopes of Cornas. The original vines here were replanted after phylloxera in 1910, and the site’s full southern exposure allows these old vines to achieve remarkable concentration while preserving the freshness and mineral character that define great Northern Rhône Syrah.

98 Pts James Suckling: A profound nose of cherries, crushed raspberries, roasted meat, cigar box, black pepper, warm spices and some bark and leather. Medium- to full-bodied with fine tannins. Expansive and spherical. Ample but refined in texture, with perfectly integrated structure at the edges and a vibrant, focused midpalate showing a bright, stony and peppery dimension. Quite spectacular for the vintage, with a very long, flinty finish. Drink or hold.

96 Pts Jeb Dunnuck: Brilliant aromatics of blue fruits, fig, blood orange, pepper, and violet notes emerge from the medium-bodied 2024 Cornas La Geynale, which has a concentrated mouthfeel, building, ripe tannins, and a gorgeous finish. This reminds me of a great vintage of Clape Cornas! It sees a lot more stems and comes from the oldest vines of the estate, and it's going to need 4-5 years of bottle age. It's up there with the crème de la crème of the vintage. Barrel Sample: 94-96

96 Points Vinous: The 2024 Cornas La Geynale hails from the glass with intense peppercorn, crushed rocks, fleshy tones and precisely ripe blackberry. Dried violets and earthy tones add more aromatic layers. Built like a skyscraper, the 2024 is a serious La Geynale in the making, lifting the finish with stupendous vitality. I can't wait to taste it once it's bottled. Barrel Sample: 93-95

Vincent Paris acquired the La Geynale parcel from his uncle, legendary Cornas grower Robert Michel, and today it stands at the pinnacle of his small production. The vineyard is farmed with a restrained, hands-on approach, with low yields and careful work in the vines designed to capture the character of this extraordinary terroir.

The 2024 La Geynale is vinified with whole clusters and aged for approximately 12 months in used oak barrels, allowing the old-vine fruit and granite-driven character to remain at the forefront. Deep and intense, it opens with blackberry and dark berry fruit layered with crushed stone, black pepper, dried violet, savory spice and earthy complexity.

On the palate, the wine is dense and powerful yet remarkably fresh, with concentrated black fruit, pronounced mineral energy and firm, finely structured tannins. Despite its depth, La Geynale retains impressive precision and vitality, finishing long, stony and persistent.

This is classic, age-worthy Cornas: serious and structured in its youth, but with the balance, concentration and freshness to evolve beautifully for decades. A compelling expression of one of Cornas’ great old-vine sites and one of the benchmark wines of Vincent Paris.

Producer: Domaine Vincent Paris
Vintage: 2024
Region: Northern Rhône, France
Appellation: Cornas AOC
Grape: 100% Syrah
Vineyard: La Geynale
Vine Age: Century-old vines, originally planted in 1910
Exposure: South-facing hillside
Soil: Granite
Vinification: Whole-cluster fermentation
Aging: Approximately 12 months in used oak barrels
Cellaring: Built for long-term aging; capable of developing for 20+ years

Bob's South African Pinotage 2025

A bold and expressive Pinotage from the sun-drenched vineyards of the Western Cape, South Africa. Bob's 2025 vintage delivers the grape's signature smoky depth alongside vibrant red fruit — ripe plum, cherry, and a hint of dark chocolate — with a smooth, full-bodied finish.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in the glass with aromas of ripe plum, smoked meat, and dark berry. On the palate, flavors of blackberry, mocha, and a touch of vanilla lead to a warm, lingering finish with well-integrated tannins.

Food Pairings

Pairs beautifully with boldly flavored comfort foods. Try with turkey meat loaf and spicy tomato chutney, vegetarian three-bean chili, or pulled pork sandwiches with burnt end baked beans.

• Grape: Pinotage
• Region: Western Cape, South Africa
• Vintage: 2025
• Size: 750ml

Château Haut Grignon is a small, family-owned estate in the Médoc, belonging to Bruno Segond, who also owns the neighboring Château Lousteauneuf — a well-regarded Cru Bourgeois distributed across Europe, Japan, and Canada. With just four hectares of vines, Haut Grignon is a boutique property that practices sustainable agriculture and focuses on producing wines that reflect the classic character of the Médoc appellation with precision and authenticity.

The estate's vineyards are planted on clay and gravel soils typical of the Médoc, with vines averaging 25 years of age and planted at a density of 5,000 vine stocks per hectare. Yields are kept deliberately low at approximately 45 hectoliters per hectare, concentrating flavor and ensuring quality. The blend is led by Cabernet Sauvignon (67%), complemented by Merlot (31%) and a touch of Petit Verdot (2%).

Vinification takes place in stainless steel vats to preserve freshness and fruit expression. The wine is then aged in a combination of 60% vats and 40% French oak barrels, building structure and complexity while maintaining the lively, fruit-forward character that defines the estate's style. Total production is limited to approximately 30,000 bottles per vintage.

The 2019 opens with a bouquet of black fruit, cassis, and cedar, with a touch of warm spice. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with firm, well-integrated tannins, bright black-currant acidity, and a clean, spiced finish. Densely structured yet fresh and approachable, with the depth to reward further cellaring. 2019 is an outstanding vintage in Bordeaux, and this Cru Bourgeois delivers exceptional value for the appellation.

"Under the same ownership as neighboring Château Lousteauneuf, this property offers a densely structured wine that is also fresh from black-currant acidity. The current dryness will soften to give a rich, always textured wine. Drink from 2023."
— Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon 67%, Merlot 31%, Petit Verdot 2%
Region: Bordeaux, France
Appellation: Médoc, Cru Bourgeois
Vintage: 2019
Vine Age: ~25 years
Élevage: 60% vats, 40% French oak barrels
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Roast beef, lamb, duck confit, game, aged hard cheeses, and classic Bordelaise preparations.

Argiano is one of Montalcino's most storied estates, with a history stretching back to the 16th century. Situated on the southwestern slopes of Montalcino, the estate is renowned above all for its Brunello, but its Non Confunditur — Latin for “shall not be confounded” — has become one of Tuscany's most beloved Super Tuscan blends: a wine of generous character, immediate appeal, and unmistakable personality. Farmed organically using spurred cordon training, the estate's vineyards sit at 280–310 meters above sea level on alluvial soils with traces of calcareous marl, producing fruit of natural freshness and expressive depth.

The Non Confunditur is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese, sourced from estate vineyards ranging from 9 to 21 years of age. The 2024 vintage presented a complex growing season: a mild, well-watered winter gave way to a warm spring, a rainy June, and intense summer heat waves in July. Careful agronomic intervention — soil tillage, shading systems, and biostimulants — allowed the vines to maintain a regular cycle. A cooler September slowed maturation slightly, and harvest concluded on 16 October with excellent grape quality and naturally moderate alcohol.

Merlot was harvested first, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Vinification begins with a two-day pre-fermentation cold maceration, followed by fermentation and skin maceration for approximately two weeks in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation is also completed in tank. The varieties are then blended and refined with a few months in third- and fourth-passage French barriques and tonneaux — imparting subtle structure without masking the wine's fresh, fruit-forward character.

The 2024 Non Confunditur is dark and saturated, with an inviting bouquet of black cherry, blackberry, and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is lush and generous, with a light grain to its texture, good concentration, and a clean, persistent finish. Fresh, versatile, and unmistakably expressive — a Super Tuscan built for pleasure now and through 2032.

"Dark and saturated with black cherry, blackberry and vanilla flavors. Lush, with a light grain to its texture and good length… Drink now through 2032."
— Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator, 89 Points. (Vintage 2024). 

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese
Region: Tuscany, Italy
Appellation: Toscana IGT
Vintage: 2024
Farming: Organic
Altitude: 280–310 meters
Élevage: Temperature-controlled steel tanks; a few months in 3rd & 4th passage French barriques and tonneaux
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Grilled meats, pasta with rich meat sauces, aged Pecorino, pizza, and casual Tuscan fare. Drink now through 2032.

Château Bel Orme Tronquoy-de-Lalande is one of the Haut-Médoc's most storied family estates, with origins dating to the late 18th century. The property was designed in 1750 by Victor Louis — the celebrated architect of the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux — and acquired its full name when the Tronquoy-de-Lalande family elevated the vineyard to prominence in the 19th century. In 1936, Lucienne Quié famously chose this charming manor overlooking the Gironde estuary over Château Pichon Baron, and the estate has remained in the Quié family ever since. Today, the third generation — Anne-Françoise, Jean-Philippe, and Paul-Henri — stewards the property with the same passion and commitment to quality, and since 2012 the estate has been united in destiny with Château Rauzan-Gassies. The Château holds the prestigious Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label, awarded in spring 2024 in recognition of its commitment to ecologically sound agriculture.

The estate's 30-hectare vineyard sits on the finest hillsides of the village of Saint-Seurin-de-Cadourne, within a Natura 2000 biodiversity site on the banks of the Gironde. The vineyard is planted with 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, farmed according to virtuous, sustainable agriculture with parcel-specific soil management. Clay soils lend the Merlot roundness and vivid, savoury fruit, while drier, draining soils allow the Cabernet Sauvignon to reach optimal maturity with ripe, velvety tannins — the authentic signature of Haut-Médoc.

Each parcel is vinified individually with meticulous attention to terroir expression. The wine is crafted to reflect the natural character of the vintage and the estate's distinctive clay-gravel soils, with careful extraction to build structure without sacrificing freshness or elegance.

The 2020 opens with aromas of blackberries, graphite, and black currant, precise and focused. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with compressed, chewy tannins that are fine and structured, showing excellent concentration and length. A serious, cellar-worthy Haut-Médoc from an outstanding vintage that rewards patience.

"A chewy and tight wine with blackberries, graphite and currant aromas and flavors. Medium body. Compressed and solid with chewy tannins that are focused and fine. Give it two or three years to open. Drink after 2025."
— James Suckling, 92 Points. (Vintage 2020). 

Grape: Merlot 65%, Cabernet Sauvignon 35%
Region: Bordeaux, France
Appellation: Haut-Médoc
Vintage: 2020
Vineyard: Saint-Seurin-de-Cadourne, 30 hectares
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Roast lamb, duck confit, braised short ribs, game, aged hard cheeses, and classic Bordelaise preparations.

Château d'Arvigny is a well-regarded estate in the Haut-Médoc appellation, situated on the left bank of the Gironde between the prestigious communes of Margaux and Saint-Julien. The estate benefits from the deep gravel soils that define the finest terroirs of the Haut-Médoc — soils that drain freely, warm quickly, and encourage the deep root systems that produce wines of natural finesse and character. The property is committed to responsible viticulture, following integrated farming practices that prioritize quality and environmental respect.

The blend is led by Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), complemented by Merlot (30%) and Cabernet Franc (10%) — a classic Bordeaux assemblage that delivers the structure and aromatic complexity the Haut-Médoc is known for. Each variety is vinified separately before blending, allowing the winemaking team to select the best lots for the final wine.

The 2022 vintage is one of the finest in recent Bordeaux memory — a warm, dry growing season that produced grapes of exceptional ripeness, concentration, and natural balance. The wines of 2022 are characterized by ripe, generous fruit, supple tannins, and excellent structure, making them approachable young while retaining the depth to evolve with time.

The 2022 d'Arvigny is soft, supple, and fruit-forward, with inviting aromas and flavors of red berries, plum, and gentle spice. On the palate, the wine is smooth and elegant with soft tannins and well-balanced acidity — a polished, approachable Haut-Médoc that delivers genuine Bordeaux character at an accessible price.

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon 60%, Merlot 30%, Cabernet Franc 10%
Region: Bordeaux, France
Appellation: Haut-Médoc
Vintage: 2022
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Roast lamb, grilled beef, duck, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses. Drink now or cellar through 2030.

Marqués de Vitoria is a distinguished Rioja producer with a long tradition of crafting wines that express the classic character of the D.O.Ca. Rioja appellation. The estate is committed to producing wines of elegance, balance, and longevity, drawing on the region's exceptional terroir and time-honored winemaking techniques to create Tempranillo-based wines of real depth and refinement.

The Rioja Reserva is sourced from select vineyards within the D.O.Ca. Rioja, where Tempranillo thrives in the region's continental climate — warm summers, cold winters, and the moderating influence of the Cantabrian Mountains and the Ebro River. The combination of clay-limestone soils and carefully managed yields produces grapes of concentration and aromatic complexity.

Following harvest, the wine is aged for a minimum of 24 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels, developing the spice, vanilla, and toasted notes that are hallmarks of classic Rioja Reserva. The wine then continues to evolve in bottle before release, ensuring harmony and integration at the time of purchase.

The 2018 Reserva shows a clean, bright cherry-red color developing to maroon. On the nose, complex and intense aromas of ripe plums, cherries, creamy vanilla, and hazelnut are interwoven with spice and well-integrated barrel notes. The palate is medium-bodied, round, and fluid — with dusty, refined tannins, bright acidity, and a long, elegant finish of sweet vanilla spice, succulent plums, and red berries. A beautifully balanced and approachable Reserva.

"A juicy Rioja showing some creamy vanilla and hazelnut characters to the savory plums and cherries. Medium body with round, dusty tannins and a long, bright finish showing plenty of sweet vanilla spices, succulent plums and red berries at the end. Fluid and elegant."
— Zekun Shuai, James Suckling, 92 Points. (Vintage 2018).

Grape: Tempranillo
Region: Rioja, Spain
Appellation: D.O.Ca. Rioja Reserva
Vintage: 2018
Élevage: Minimum 24 months in French and American oak barrels
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Roast and grilled meats, lamb, mushroom rice, tuna, cod, and medium-aged cheeses such as Emmental or Gruyère.

Domaine Graeme & Julie Bott Côte-Rôtie 2020 is a beautifully expressive Northern Rhône Syrah that combines the power and savory complexity of Côte-Rôtie with the domaine's signature elegance and finesse. Produced in extremely limited quantities, this is a refined, age-worthy wine with dark fruit, floral perfume, spice and beautifully polished tannins.

The fruit comes from approximately 40-year-old Syrah vines planted on the schist soils of the Côte Brune in Ampuis. These steep, rocky vineyards are at the heart of Côte-Rôtie and give the wine remarkable intensity, structure and mineral character.

Expert Ratings

94 Points — Vinous

Glistening ruby. Spice- and mineral-accented cherry and black raspberry scents are complemented by suggestions of pipe tobacco, violet, smoky bacon and exotic spices. Densely packed and subtly chewy in texture, offering appealingly sweet, spice-tinged red and dark berry and floral pastille flavors that are supported by an undercurrent of juicy acidity. The mineral note returns on a very long, penetrating finish that features polished tannins and resonating florality.

93 Points — Wine Spectator

Shows seductive violet, crushed plum and spice notes that mingle on the palate, grounded by balsamic and olive tapenade. The dry finish, with power that builds, is marked with a dusting of white pepper. Drink now through 2030.

93 Points — James Suckling

Dark cherries, plums, black olives, grilled meat, earth and cloves on the nose. Medium to full body with fine tannins. Serious and well-balanced with a restrained power and a lively finish with excellent length.

92 Points — Jeb Dunnuck

I loved the 2020 Côte Rôtie, another terrific effort here. Giving up lots of ripe black and blue fruits as well as spring flowers and bouquet garni-like notes, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, has ripe, sweet tannins, and a great finish.

Winemaking

The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted both in the vineyard and again upon arrival at the winery. Approximately 80% of the fruit is destemmed before a cold maceration in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks. Fermentation begins naturally with indigenous yeasts, followed by 18 months of aging in French oak barrels.

Production is exceptionally small, at approximately 1,200 bottles, making this a particularly limited expression of Côte-Rôtie.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby with violet reflections, the 2020 Côte-Rôtie offers an expressive aromatic profile of ripe blackberry, dark cherry and plum layered with violet, cracked pepper and savory spice. Subtle notes of olive, smoked meat and earthy minerality add classic Northern Rhône complexity.

The palate is full and concentrated yet remarkably supple, with ripe dark fruit framed by firm, silky tannins and fresh acidity. Peppery spice and mineral notes carry through the long, elegant finish, giving the wine both immediate appeal and excellent potential for further development in the cellar.

About Domaine Graeme & Julie Bott

Graeme and Julie Bott met while working at the renowned Northern Rhône estate of Stéphane Ogier before establishing their own domaine. Beginning with a small cellar in their garage, they gradually planted vineyards in Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Saint-Joseph and Seyssuel.

Today, working from their cellar in Ampuis, their philosophy centers on allowing the Northern Rhône's schist and granite terroirs to speak clearly through the wines. Production remains deliberately small, with an emphasis on balance, purity and finesse.

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for grilled or roasted beef, ribeye steak, rack of lamb, braised lamb, duck and slow-cooked game. Its savory, peppery character also pairs beautifully with mushrooms, lentils, roasted root vegetables and dishes featuring rosemary, thyme or black pepper.

Wine Details

• Producer: Domaine Graeme & Julie Bott
• Vintage: 2020
• Country: France
• Region: Northern Rhône
• Appellation: Côte-Rôtie AOC
• Vineyard Location: Ampuis, Côte Brune
• Grape: Syrah
• Vine Age: Approximately 40 years
• Soil: Schist
• Harvest: Hand harvested
• Vinification: Approximately 80% destemmed; indigenous yeast fermentation
• Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels
• Alcohol: 13%
• Production: Approximately 1,200 bottles
• Bottle Size: 750ml

One of the rarest and most sought-after wines produced by Egly-Ouriet, the Cuvée des Grands Côtes Vieilles Vignes is a still red Coteaux Champenois made entirely from Pinot Noir. The fruit comes from a single south-facing vineyard in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay, situated directly below the domaine’s celebrated Les Crayères parcel.

The vineyard’s old vines, more than 60 years of age, are rooted in soils containing a higher proportion of clay than the neighboring chalk-dominant Les Crayères site. This warmer, clay-rich terroir is particularly well suited to producing deeply flavored, structured Pinot Noir. The vineyard is farmed according to practicing-organic principles, with meticulous attention to vine health, ripeness and naturally low yields.

The grapes are harvested by hand and fermented with indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels. The wine is then matured in barrel for approximately 22 months, with around 30% new oak. It is bottled individually by hand directly from barrel, without fining or filtration, preserving the wine’s natural concentration, texture and expression of its Ambonnay terroir.

The 2023 Cuvée des Grands Côtes is an intense yet beautifully refined expression of Pinot Noir. Aromas of ripe raspberry, red cherry and wild strawberry are joined by rose petals, savory spices, crushed stone and subtly toasted oak. The palate combines generous fruit with freshness and mineral precision, framed by finely textured tannins and a long, complex finish.

Although produced within Champagne, this is not a sparkling wine. Coteaux Champenois is the appellation reserved for the region’s rare still wines, and Egly-Ouriet’s Ambonnay Rouge is widely regarded as one of its most distinguished examples. Its depth, structure and ability to develop in the cellar frequently invite comparison with fine red Burgundy.

This exceptionally limited wine may be enjoyed after decanting or cellared for further development. Serve slightly cool with roast duck, game birds, veal, beef tenderloin, wild mushrooms, truffle dishes or aged cheeses.

Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Appellation: Coteaux Champenois
Village: Ambonnay Grand Cru, Montagne de Reims
Vineyard: Single south-facing parcel below Les Crayères
Vine age: More than 60 years
Farming: Practicing organic
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels
Élevage: Approximately 22 months in barrel, including around 30% new oak
Bottling: Bottled by hand directly from barrel; unfined and unfiltered
Wine style: Still red wine
Alcohol: 13% ABV
Bottle size: 750ml

G.D. Vajra Barolo Coste di Rose — Piedmont 2022

G.D. Vajra is one of Barolo’s most beloved family estates — a domaine defined by roots, continuity, and an almost philosophical commitment to the land. Founded by Aldo Vajra in Vergne, on the western slopes of the Barolo DOCG, the estate is today run by his children Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro, who share a single conviction: that great wine is an act of identification with place and people. Coste di Rose is the estate’s single-vineyard Barolo from the Coste di Rose MGA in Vergne — a site known for its floral, elegant expression of Nebbiolo, with chalky soils that produce silky tannins and remarkable finesse. The 2022 vintage earned 96 points from James Suckling and 94 from Jeb Dunnuck.

The nose is quintessentially Vajra: floral and lifted, with rose petals, crunchy red fruit, fresh raspberries, and a minty, bright energy. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a blanket of delicate, tender fruit, chalky and precise yet silky tannins, and refreshing acidity that gives the wine wonderful clarity and immediacy. Dark blue fruits, spice, leather, and incense add depth through the finish. Drinkable now with proper aeration, but will reward patience.

James Suckling 96 — "Floral, as is typical of this estate, with crunchy red fruit and rose petals. Medium-bodied, with a blanket of delicate, tender fruit defined by chalky, precise yet silky tannins. Drinkable now with proper aeration, but will improve with some bottle age." (Vintage 2022). 

Jeb Dunnuck 94 — "Fresh and minty with aromas of ripe raspberries and pressed roses. Well-defined ripe tannins, refreshing acidity, and an immediacy that retains great clarity." (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: G.D. Vajra, Vergne, Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• MGA (Single Vineyard): Coste di Rose, Vergne
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Rose petal, raspberry, red fruit, mint, dark blue fruit, spice, leather, silky tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now (with aeration) or cellar 10–15+ years
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, braised short ribs, truffle risotto, aged Parmigiano, wild mushroom pasta

A 96-point single-vineyard Barolo from one of Piedmont’s most soulful family estates — floral, precise, and built to age.

CHÂTEAU LA GARDE PESSAC-LÉOGNAN 2015 | 750ML

🇫🇷 France — Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot | Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux

With more than a decade of bottle age, Château La Garde 2015 is entering a beautiful window of maturity. The bouquet opens with violet, blackberry, black currant, and dark cherry, accompanied by crushed stone, cedar, tobacco, graphite, and subtle spice — the classic mineral signature of Pessac-Léognan. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, linear, and precise, with concentrated dark fruit, fresh acidity, and finely integrated tannins. Secondary notes of tobacco, earth, and cedar are becoming increasingly expressive. Decant for 45–90 minutes and serve at 60–65°F.

The estate occupies one of the finest gravel outcrops in the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Dourthe acquired Château La Garde in 1990, recognizing the exceptional potential of its terroir, and has invested significantly in both vineyard and cellar to produce wines of precision, balance, and refined structure. The 2015 blend is 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot.

93 Points — James Suckling
“Violet, dark-berry and stone aromas follow through to a medium to full body. Linear and very fine. Tight and fresh. Precise and beautiful. A serious young red.” (Vintage 2015). 

91 Points — Wine Enthusiast
Firm tannins, fresh acidity, and layered blackberry and black-currant fruit. (Vintage 2015). 

Pairs well with: Grilled or roasted beef, rack of lamb, duck breast, braised short ribs, wild mushrooms, aged cheeses.

Grapes: 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot
Region: Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2015
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 pts James Suckling | 91 pts Wine Enthusiast

Château Fontenil, established in 1986, is the home estate of celebrated Bordeaux oenologists Dany and Michel Rolland. Before purchasing this Right Bank property, the Rollands worked as consultants to numerous producers throughout the region.

Their 11 hectares in Fronsac are planted predominantly to Merlot on a south-facing slope of clay and limestone overlooking the Isle River and the town of Libourne.

The vineyards are sustainably farmed and manually harvested. The average vine age is more than 45 years, and yields are carefully limited.

“Comes on with aromas of warm, ripe plum fruit beginning to show some stewed character, followed by a hint of tobacco. The palate is juicy, with some wood and spice on the finish.”

—Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer

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Château Fontenil 2016 is a polished, expressive Right Bank Bordeaux from the Fronsac appellation, produced at the home estate of renowned Bordeaux oenologists Dany and Michel Rolland. The couple acquired the property in 1986 after years of consulting for estates throughout the region, naming it Fontenil after one of the vineyard’s original parcels.

The estate occupies approximately nine hectares in the commune of Saillans, on a south-facing hillside overlooking the Isle River and the town of Libourne. The vineyards are rooted in Fronsac’s distinctive clay-and-limestone soils, which are particularly well suited to Merlot and help produce wines with generous fruit, mineral freshness, and naturally structured tannins. The vines used for the 2016 vintage averaged more than 45 years of age.

Produced from 100% Merlot, Château Fontenil represents the rich yet refined character for which Fronsac is increasingly admired. The grapes were harvested by hand and subjected to double sorting to ensure that only healthy, fully ripe fruit entered the winery. Vinification took place in small temperature-controlled wooden and stainless-steel vats, as well as in new French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was also carried out in new oak, followed by 15 to 18 months of maturation in French barrels, approximately 40% of which were new.

The 2016 vintage displays a deep ruby-purple color and an expressive bouquet of black cherry, raspberry, plum, currant, and wild blueberry. With air, the wine reveals additional layers of violet, dried flowers, cinnamon, licorice, fine chocolate, tobacco leaf, cedar, subtle toast, and forest floor.

On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, round, and supple, combining ripe dark fruit with bright red-fruit freshness. The tannins are silky and beautifully integrated, providing structure without heaviness. Notes of raspberry, black cherry, pepper, spice, and gently toasted oak carry into a long, harmonious, and savory finish.

The strength of the 2016 vintage lies in its balance. It offers the ripe fruit and velvety texture associated with Michel Rolland’s approach, while retaining the freshness, elegance, and mineral definition of its Fronsac terroir. Published reviews praised the wine for its perfume, vibrancy, purity, and polished tannins. Falstaff awarded the vintage 93 points, describing a fresh, balanced wine with dark berries, cherry, licorice, chocolate, and well-integrated oak.

The Guide Hachette des Vins also highlighted its combination of black fruit, raspberry, pepper, and integrated toasted notes, along with a rounded palate, silky tannins, and a long, flavorful finish.

Now entering a very attractive stage of maturity, Château Fontenil 2016 can be enjoyed today after a brief decant, while still possessing enough fruit and structure for additional cellar development. It is an excellent value for drinkers seeking the plushness and depth of Merlot-based Right Bank Bordeaux without the pricing of neighboring Pomerol or Saint-Émilion.

Appellation: Fronsac
Region: Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2016
Grape Variety: Predominantly Merlot
Vineyard Size: Approximately 9 hectares
Soils: Clay and limestone over Fronsac molasse
Average Vine Age: More than 45 years
Harvest: Hand harvested with double sorting
Vinification: Small temperature-controlled wooden and stainless-steel vats; partial vinification in new French oak
Malolactic Fermentation: In new French oak barrels
Aging: 15–18 months in French oak, approximately 40% new
Alcohol: 13%
Critical Acclaim: 93 Points, Falstaff
Bottle Size: 750ml

Food Pairings: Roast lamb, grilled steak, duck breast, braised beef, short ribs, pork tenderloin, mushroom dishes, lentils, and firm aged cheeses.

Serving Recommendation: Serve at approximately 60–65°F. Decant for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the fruit, spice, and mature savory notes to fully open.

The Diamond Collection Appellation Series Chardonnay bestows a rich, creamy texture, lush fruit impressions, and an impeccable balance.

Sourced from the cool, wind-swept vineyards of the Santa Lucia Highlands, our Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Appellation Series Chardonnay embodies the region’s unique ability to produce wines of exceptional depth and balance. The combination of morning fog, afternoon coastal breezes, and well-draining hillside soils allows for a long, even growing season—resulting in fruit with remarkable intensity and natural acidity.

The Diamond Collection Appellation Series Chardonnay bestows a rich, creamy texture, lush fruit impressions, and an impeccable balance.

Sourced from the cool, wind-swept vineyards of the Santa Lucia Highlands, our Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Appellation Series Chardonnay embodies the region’s unique ability to produce wines of exceptional depth and balance. The combination of morning fog, afternoon coastal breezes, and well-draining hillside soils allows for a long, even growing season—resulting in fruit with remarkable intensity and natural acidity.

Pride Mountain Vineyards sits at 2,100 feet elevation on the Napa-Sonoma border, straddling the county line in a way that is as unique as the wines it produces. Above the fog layer, bathed in sunshine from morning to evening, with warm mornings and cool afternoons, the vineyard's growing conditions are unlike anywhere else in California — producing wines of extraordinary intensity, varietal character, and natural acidity that age gracefully for decades.

The Pride Mountain Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 750ml is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, sourced 64% from the Sonoma side of the property and 36% from Napa. Aged 18 months in 50% new and 50% neutral French oak, it opens with aromas of blackberry, crème de cassis, sage, tobacco leaf, and cedar, with delicate hints of violet emerging as it opens. The palate is full-bodied yet nuanced, with fine tannins, integrated acidity, and a beautiful tension between fruit, floral, and savory herbal notes. Built to age gracefully over the next 20 years.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• James Suckling — 95 Points: "Classic aromas of blackcurrants, dark cherries, cedar and graphite. Full-bodied with fine tannins and integrated acidity. Well balanced and refined, with a drying finish."
• Wine Advocate — 92 Points: "Plush and velvety with scents of dried herbs, black olives and black cherries. Mountain tannins nicely managed — present but ripe and soft, lingering pleasantly on the finish."
• Vinous — 91 Points: "Aromatic, savory and light on its feet. Crushed rose petal, sage, mint and blood orange lend notable lift and brightness. A distinctly red-fruited Cabernet."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 Points: "Darker currants, leafy herbs, underbrush, and a kiss of menthol. Medium-bodied with a nicely balanced, charming mouthfeel."

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Blackberry, crème de cassis, sage, tobacco leaf, cedar, and violet
• Palate: Full-bodied with Damson plum, licorice, boysenberry, and fine tannins
• Finish: Long, refined, and drying with excellent structure

Wine Details

• 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc
• Napa-Sonoma border — 2,100ft elevation
• Aged 18 months in 50% new French oak
• Vintage: 2022 | Age 20+ years | 750ml

Tenuta di Biserno Insoglio del Cinghiale — Maremma Toscana IGT 2024

Insoglio del Cinghiale is the founding wine of Tenuta di Biserno — the Upper Maremma estate created and nurtured by the Antinori family, one of Italy’s most celebrated winemaking dynasties. The name tells the story: “Insoglio” is the place in the Maremma scrubland where the wild boar (cinghiale) goes to root and roll — and the cinghiale is an expression of the soul and culture of this wild, beautiful coastal territory. The wine is a richly fruity, exquisitely structured blend of Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, hand-harvested, carefully sorted, destemmed, and soft-crushed, then aged 7 months partly in steel and partly in wood to preserve freshness and build complexity. The 2024 vintage was a discovery-filled year: a wet spring built water reserves, a cooler harvest preserved freshness, and slow ripening of later varieties added remarkable complexity. Decanter awarded it 94 points.

Intense and lively purple-red with violet reflections. The nose is expressive: violet, berries, and light peppery spice. On the palate, it is enveloping, fresh, and medium-bodied, with well-smoothed tannins, ripe concentrated fruit, and a long, precise finish of real charm and vibrancy.

Decanter 94 (Georgina Hindle) — “Ripe and concentrated but this also has a touch of charm and vibrancy about it… a purity and precision to the fruit and a long length.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Tenuta di Biserno (Antinori family), Upper Maremma, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc
• Aging: 7 months, partly steel, partly wood
• ABV: 14%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Violet, berries, peppery spice, ripe concentrated fruit, smooth tannins, long precise finish
• Best Paired With: Braised or roasted meats, wild boar ragù, hard cheeses, grilled lamb

A 94-point Antinori Maremma blend at an honest price — Insoglio del Cinghiale is the benchmark for what Upper Maremma Toscana IGT can be.

Michele Chiarlo Tortoniano Barolo DOCG — Piedmont, Italy 2022

Michele Chiarlo has been vinifying the essence of Piedmont since 1956 — one of the region’s most visionary and historically significant producers. Founder Michele Chiarlo was among the first in Italy to introduce malolactic fermentation, and long before DOC laws were adopted, he was already aging his wines in oak and bottle for extended periods. Today the estate farms the finest crus of Barolo, Barbaresco, Nizza, and Gavi, using indigenous grapes — Nebbiolo, Barbera, Cortese, Moscato — to express the full depth of Piedmontese terroir. Tortoniano takes its name from the Tortonian-era soils in which the vines are planted — ancient marine sediments laid down 9 million years ago, rich in magnesium and manganese, that give the wine its distinctive mineral character and longevity. Grape clusters are thinned and harvested up to 15 days later than usual for maximum concentration, then aged two years in large oak casks and one year in bottle before release. 

Garnet with brilliant luminous hues. The nose is inviting and complex: rose petals, juniper berries, and fine spices — the unmistakable signature of great Nebbiolo. On the palate, it is elegant with ample structure and silky tannins, and a long, refined finish that speaks clearly of its ancient soils. A Barolo of real depth and class.

• Producer: Michele Chiarlo, Calamandrana, Piedmont, Italy (est. 1956)
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo — Tortonian-era soils (9 million years old), rich in magnesium & manganese
• Aging: 2 years in large oak casks + 1 year in bottle before release
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Rose petals, juniper berries, fine spices, elegant structure, silky tannins, long refined finish
• Best Paired With: Mushroom pasta, roasted fowl, braised beef, matured cheeses, truffle dishes

A 9-million-year-old terroir in a glass — Michele Chiarlo Tortoniano is the benchmark for what classic Barolo can be.