Rock Bottom - Crushing Sale Prices

Expert Review — Vintage 2025

James Suckling 90 Points | Juicy and fruit-driven with notes of limes, bell peppers and herbs on the nose. Medium body with fresh acidity. Laid-back and delicious. Sustainable.

Winemaker Notes

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc is fresh and juicy with ripe, tropical flavors of passion fruit, melon, and stone fruit. Classic Marlborough aromas of lifted citrus, tropical fruit, and crushed herbs, along with vibrant acidity and plenty of weight and length on the palate.

The 2025 vintage remains one of the most recognizable benchmark wines of New Zealand — continuing to deliver the intense, high-energy profile that made it a global household name.

Tasting & Pairings

Passion fruit, melon, stone fruit, lime, bell pepper, and crushed herbs. Fresh, juicy, and medium-bodied with vibrant acidity. Serve well chilled.

• Fresh oysters or ceviche — the crisp acidity and citrus are a classic match.
• Grilled asparagus or summer salads — the herbal notes complement green vegetables beautifully.
• Lobster or shrimp with lemon butter — the tropical fruit and weight stand up to richer shellfish.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

Decanter 90 Points | Appealing Granny Smith apple and nectarine fruit aroma with a hint of white blossom. Surprisingly fresh texture for the vintage, and an elegantly lovely finish — astonishing quality given the volume of production.

Wine Spectator 90 Points | Peach, almond, toasty oak and earth notes highlight this plush white. Backed by lively acidity that drives the spicy, bitter citrus finish. Fine balance and length.

Winemaker Notes

Aromas of white flowers, peach, grilled almond, and lemon peel on a mineral-tinged background. The attack is full and warm on the palate, with a lively and long-lasting finish.

The Les Sétilles Secret

Les Sétilles is widely considered one of the best-kept secrets in Burgundy. While technically labeled as a Bourgogne Blanc — Burgundy’s entry-level appellation — the fruit is sourced primarily from vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault, two of the Côte de Beaune’s most celebrated white wine villages. The result is a wine with the DNA of much more expensive village-level Burgundy at a fraction of the price: a genuine insider’s choice for those who know.

About Olivier Leflaive

Olivier Leflaive is one of Burgundy’s most respected négociant-éleveurs, founded in 1984 in Puligny-Montrachet by a member of the legendary Leflaive family — one of the most storied names in white Burgundy. The maison specializes in white wines from the Côte de Beaune and is known for sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking. Les Sétilles — named for the small stones found in the vineyards — is the flagship entry-level wine and one of the most consistently praised value Burgundies on the market.

Food Pairings

Lobster with drawn butter, seared scallops, grilled fish, roast chicken with tarragon, veal, Brie, aged Comté, and light pasta with cream sauce. A benchmark value white Burgundy built for the table.

Winemaker Description

A complex assemblage of primarily Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Brut Prestige opens with gorgeous layered white blossom aromas, followed by creamy vanilla, citrus, stone fruit and melon. With elegant acidity and crisp structure, this medium-bodied sparkling wine displays an excellent mousse and a rich, lingering finish — making it an exceptional food wine.

Critical Acclaim

• Wine Spectator 90 Points | Delicate in style yet plush, with pretty cherry, lemon verbena and yeast roll flavors that linger on the supple, refreshing finish. Drink now.
• Decanter 90 Points | A snappy sparkling that begins with a seriously fresh nose of green apple, orange blossom, citrus and gingerbread. Medium-bodied, balanced, crisp and complex, with a lengthy finish.

About the Wine

Mumm California Brut Prestige is the signature sparkling wine from Mumm Napa — widely considered one of the best-value domestic Champagne-style sparklers, blending traditional French méthode champenoise techniques with the vibrant fruit of California.

Food Pairings

• Oysters, sushi, or truffle popcorn
• Roasted poultry, creamy pasta, or spicy Thai dishes
• Excellent in Mimosas or French 75 cocktails

Product Details

• Producer: Mumm Napa
• Blend: Pinot Noir & Chardonnay
• Style: Brut Sparkling
• Appellation: California
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Notes

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

About the Wine

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

Tasting & Pairings

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

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

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Vinous 92 Points | Generous and well-defined bouquet with Clementine and peach skin, a hint of candy floss and spice. Quite mercurial in the glass. Taut and fresh palate with a fine bead of acidity. Sapid with plenty of extract and umami on the finish. "This should be on your shopping list."

Allen Meadows / Burghound 90 Points | Expressive and quite fresh with just-sliced citrus, green apple and convincing typicity. Excellent vibrancy to the sleek, well-defined flavors with good length on the youthfully austere and highly refreshing finish. A few years of keeping recommended.

About the Wine

Julien Brocard is a pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture in Chablis. La Boissonneuse was his very first experimental biodynamic plot, certified since the early 2000s — making this wine a poster child for what these farming methods can achieve in the region.

The 2023 vintage reflects the purity and energy that organic/biodynamic farming aims for: mineral-driven, vibrant, and unmistakably Chablis.

Tasting & Pairings

Clementine, peach skin, citrus, green apple, candy floss, and umami. Taut, fresh, and sleek with fine acidity and mineral extract. Serve well chilled.

• Fresh oysters or scallops — the mineral-on-mineral match is classic Chablis territory.
• Roasted chicken with herbs — the wine’s fleshy mid-palate handles white meat perfectly.
• Goat cheese (chèvre) — the tang complements the wine’s citrus profile.

Our Professional Review

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

Winemaker Notes

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

About the Wine

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

Tasting & Pairings

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

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

Winemaker Description

A brilliant pale greenish-yellow color. The very expressive nose offers white flower scents with real charm. The attack is bold and generous — this wine has good volume on the palate, with quite exceptional length and persistence for a Bourgogne Blanc. A genuine value wine that can be enjoyed from now on.

About Joseph Faiveley

Founded in 1825 and based in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Faiveley is one of Burgundy’s most historic and respected maisons — and one of the largest vineyard owners in the region, with holdings spanning the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. Their Bourgogne Blanc is a quintessential entry-level Burgundy that punches well above its weight class: since Faiveley controls some of the finest estate vineyards in the region, they are able to blend fruit from their own holdings with carefully selected grapes from trusted growers, producing a village-quality wine at an appellation price. For those new to white Burgundy — or looking for an everyday Chardonnay with genuine Burgundian character — this is the benchmark.

Food Pairings

Grilled fish, roasted chicken, veal, soft cheeses, mushroom dishes, light pasta with cream sauce, and charcuterie. An exceptionally versatile everyday white Burgundy built for the table.

Product Details

• Producer: Joseph Faiveley
• Appellation: Bourgogne Blanc AOC, Burgundy, France
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Crisp, generous, expressive entry-level white Burgundy
• Vintage: 2023
• Drink: Now
• Format: 750ml

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

James Suckling 91 Points | Bright raspberries and dark cherries make a great combo in this full-bodied yet lively and well-balanced wine. Mild tannins and good acidity give some lift to the generous fruit flavors, while notes of star anise and cedar add complexity.

Winemaker Description

An undeniably juicy Pinot Noir that bursts with cherries, raspberries and a touch of cassis. Rich flavors of fresh fruit join with soft oak to create a beautifully long, smooth finish filled with sweet vanilla.

Food Pairings

• Roasted mushrooms or mushroom risotto
• Duck breast with cherry reduction
• Salmon, tuna, or light charcuterie
• Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert

Product Details

• Producer: Bread & Butter Wines
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: California
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml

About the Wine

Raeburn Skylight Chardonnay is a lower-alcohol expression of Sonoma County Chardonnay, crafted for modern wine lovers who want full flavor at a lighter level. All the character of Sonoma Chardonnay — without sacrificing flavor or finesse.

Tasting Notes

Fresh apple, pear, and citrus blossom on the nose, followed by subtle stone fruit and a gentle touch of oak. Clean and refreshing on the palate with lively acidity and a smooth, elegant finish.

Pairings & Serving

• Grilled fish or shrimp with lemon — the bright acidity and citrus notes are a natural match.
• Light salads or roasted chicken — the wine’s clean profile complements without overpowering.
• Soft cheeses or light appetizers — an easy-going aperitif or patio sipper.

About Nigori Sake

Nigori — meaning "cloudy" in Japanese — is an unfiltered style of sake with a milky-white appearance and characteristically full, smooth palate. Sho Chiku Bai Nigori Silky Mild is crafted by Takara Sake USA in Berkeley, California using traditional Japanese methods, making it one of the most approachable and food-friendly sakes available.

Tasting Notes

• Fruity aromas of ripe banana, vanilla, melon and strawberry
• Creamy sweet rice custard on the palate
• Full, smooth and milky with a gently sweet finish
• Slightly sweeter than Sho Chiku Bai Nigori Crème de Sake

Serving & Food Pairings

• Serve chilled or over ice as a dessert alternative
• Pairs beautifully with spicy dishes — the sweetness tempers heat
• Excellent with sushi, Thai cuisine, or fresh fruit desserts
• Kosher certified — suitable for a wide range of occasions

Product Details

• Producer: Takara Sake USA
• Style: Nigori (Unfiltered Sake)
• Origin: Berkeley, California, USA
• Format: 750ml
• Kosher: Yes

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | Seamless and supple with vanilla, dark cherry, and a twist of earthy forest. Sourced from several vineyards in San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Long-lasting, fresh, and approachable with full-bodied weight and breadth supported by supple tannins and spiced oak.

Winemaker Notes

Beautifully lush and supple, this Pinot Noir draws you in with inviting aromas of raspberry, dark cherry, dried sage, and sweet tobacco leaf. Soft, supple tannins frame alluring layers of wild strawberry and Bing cherry, with hints of cracked black pepper and spice on a long, satisfying finish.

About Calera

Calera is one of California’s most storied Pinot Noir producers, founded by Josh Jensen in the 1970s after studying under Burgundy legends. Jensen was among the first to champion limestone soils in California for Pinot Noir — the estate’s name means "lime kiln" in Spanish. This Central Coast bottling blends fruit from across the region to deliver Calera’s signature elegance at an accessible price point.

Tasting & Pairings

Dark cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, dried sage, sweet tobacco, black pepper, and spiced oak. Full-bodied yet supple with soft tannins and a long finish.

• Roasted duck or quail — the dark fruit and sage notes are a natural match for game birds.
• Grilled salmon with herbs — California Pinot and Pacific salmon, always a winner.
• Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta — the earthy forest character complements umami-rich dishes.

J. Lohr Estates is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, farming estate vineyards across Monterey, Paso Robles, and Napa Valley. The Riverstone Chardonnay is sourced from the Arroyo Seco appellation in Monterey County — a cool, wind-swept region ideal for growing Chardonnay with natural freshness and bright acidity. One of California’s best-value Chardonnays, vintage after vintage.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 91 Points | “This full-bodied, round and buttery Chardonnay has notes of baked apples, toast, and brown butter. Ripe, soft, and generous.”

Winemaker Description

A fresh, youthful, and textured Chardonnay with flavors and aromas of pear, floral, white peach, citrus, baking spices, and honey. Full-bodied with refreshing acidity and a rich, smooth finish.

Food Pairings

Fresh seafood risotto, mussels in white wine sauce, chicken piccata, grilled chicken, creamy pasta, and triple crème or Humboldt Fog goat cheese. An excellent aperitif.

• Producer: J. Lohr Estates
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Full-bodied, buttery, lightly oaked California Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description

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

Expert Review —  Current Vintage 2023, Prior Vintage 2022

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

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

Food Pairings

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

Product Details

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

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

James Suckling 97 Points | Rich, powerful and gorgeous, drenched in fruity, savory, mushroomy flavors on a full body and super-smooth tannins. Deep black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar and pine character that expands on the palate and lingers on the finish. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | Deeper and more layered, with notes of pine, sage, ripe cherries, fresh leather, and pressed floral perfume. Refined and plush texture with ripe tannins and elegant notes of dark earth. Drink 2025–2040.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Precise and vibrant, with sleek cherry and raspberry highlighted by stony mineral and black tea accents. Gathers richness toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2034.

About the Wine

Cuvée Laurène is the flagship Pinot Noir of Domaine Drouhin Oregon — the Willamette Valley estate founded by Burgundy’s legendary Maison Joseph Drouhin. Named after Véronique Drouhin’s daughter, this 100% estate wine is sourced from the Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills, two of the valley’s most exciting sub-appellations.

The vines are planted at high Burgundian density, forcing competition for nutrients and producing small, intensely concentrated berries. The estate’s famous Jory soil (red volcanic clay) gives the wine its signature red-fruit profile and silky, elegant texture.

Tasting & Pairings

Black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar, pine, sage, mushroom, leather, and dark earth. Full-bodied yet super-smooth with refined tannins and extraordinary length. Decant or cellar through 2040.

• Roasted duck breast with cherry reduction — the wine’s dark fruit and savory depth are a perfect match.
• Wild mushroom risotto or truffle dishes — the mushroomy, earthy character is built for umami.
• Rack of lamb with herbs de Provence — the cedar and pine notes complement herbed meats beautifully.

Winemaker Notes

Stunningly aromatic tropical fruits and bright citrus notes, with a refreshingly zesty finish. Brilliant clarity, extraordinary aromatic flavors, and refreshing zest.

About the Wine

Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc is the wine that started it all — the first Oyster Bay, which won Best Sauvignon Blanc in the World. Sourced from Marlborough, the region famous for introducing elegant, cool-climate New Zealand wines to the world. Warm days and cool nights create an extended growing season, allowing the grapes to develop intense varietal character while maintaining balanced, crisp natural acidity. Uniquely Marlborough and undeniably Oyster Bay.

Tasting & Pairings

Tropical fruit, bright citrus, and a refreshingly zesty finish. Crisp, elegant, and always refreshing.

• Fresh seafood, sushi, or ceviche — the zesty acidity and tropical notes are a natural match.
• Goat cheese salad or light appetizers — the crisp profile complements fresh, tangy flavors.
• Thai or Vietnamese cuisine — the aromatic intensity stands up to bold, herbaceous dishes.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Vinous 92 Points | Opens with earthy notes, dark fruit and dark olives, lifted by a subtle floral character. Fresh and approachable on the palate with a clean, uncomplicated finish. Grapes sourced predominantly from Altamira.

James Suckling 92 Points | Dark fruit, olives, and floral lift. Fresh, approachable, and clean on the finish — a textbook Reserva Malbec from a top Mendoza site.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Earthy and fruit-driven with dark olive and floral notes. Clean and well-structured finish.

Wine Spectator 90 Points | A charming style showing citrus blossoms, guava, and huckleberry with traces of fresh herbs and cassis. Subtle minerality and fresh acidity nudge the core flavors onto the polished finish.

Winemaker Description

Bright red with purple shades. Intense floral and fruity notes on the nose — violets, ripe black cherry, and plum — with a toasty, spicy character of black pepper and chocolate. Sweet and juicy on the palate with finesse, delicate tannins, and an elegant finish of black fruits.

Expert Review — Vintage 2025

Wineanorak 93 Points | Highly aromatic, with elderflower, citrus, and passionfruit. Crisp, textural, and elegant — benchmark Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

Producer Description

Founded in 1985, Cloudy Bay put Marlborough on the world wine map with its debut Sauvignon Blanc. The 2025 vintage is open and expressive — peach, elderflower, and makrut lime on the nose, with bright lemon, white nectarine, and passionfruit on the palate. Refreshing sea salt and dune grass aromas carry through to a steel-cut citrus finish. A benchmark expression of cool-climate New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

Food Pairings

A natural match for tempura oysters, fresh sashimi, steamed mussels, and grilled prawns. Also excellent with green salads, goat cheese, and herb-crusted fish. As a rule: if it goes with lemon, it goes with Cloudy Bay.

Producer Description

Hess Select Chardonnay has earned its place as a go-to California white — consistent, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely well-made. Sourced from Monterey County, where cool Pacific breezes off the ocean preserve natural acidity and allow grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, this is a Chardonnay that delivers real character at an everyday price.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of grilled pineapple, star fruit, and vanilla lead to a medium-bodied palate of sliced peach and golden apple. A thoughtful blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak fermentation keeps the wine fresh and bright while adding a touch of crème brûlée richness on the finish.

Food Pairings

A natural match for roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster mac and cheese, and creamy pasta. Also excellent with Brie, aged cheddar, or goat cheese.

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

James Suckling 93 Points | A restrained pinot grigio with aromas of green apples, white peaches, white pepper and minerals. Tight-knit structure on the palate, with subtle silkiness, super-savory flavors and a medium body. Long finish.

Winemaker Description 

This wine is all the rage right now, an international bestseller – especially as a major export to the United States and Great Britain. The grape, which actually originates from Burgundy, loves not only the climate in South Tyrol, but also the soil conditions. It has found a second homeland here, and has become the most widely planted grape variety. It is appreciated for its freshness, nice acidity and pleasant, lingering aftertaste.

Luminous, fruit‑forward white that strikes a perfect balance between richness and freshness. With aromas of white peach, mandarin, and tropical orchard fruit upfront, it’s anchored by subtle oak hints and a creamy texture that adds depth without overwhelming. The palate delivers juicy citrus zest and orchard fruit flavors, brightened by vibrant acidity and finished with a smooth, lingering touch of vanilla and spice. It’s a graceful wine made for elegant sipping, ideal with roasted chicken, creamy pastas, or buttery seafood.

Winemaker Description 

Radiant aromas of ripe tangerine, sweet melon, and tropical mango mingle with delicate oak spice. The palate is round and full, with bright acidity and a supple backbone of sweet oak, layered with notes of juicy mango, pineapple, and a touch of vanilla.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

Jeb Dunnuck 98+ Points | "Incredibly elegant yet concentrated 2021 that does everything right." Purple-hued, with ample cassis, wild sage, graphite, and darker chocolate aromatics. Picks up a Graves-like gravelly earth character with air. Full-bodied with ripe, polished tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Needs 4–5 years of bottle age but will drink well for 30 years.

James Suckling 98 Points | Intense aromas of iodine, blackcurrants, cedar, sandalwood and mint. Medium to full body with silky tannins that spread across the palate and expand in a balanced, harmonized way. Hints of chocolate and tar. Better in a few years — try 2027 and beyond.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | Packed with dark, winey flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry paste underscored with alder, sweet tobacco, warm paving stone and black licorice. Violet accent fills the background. Polished finish makes it accessible now, with plenty of life ahead. Drink now through 2042. — Wine Spectator’s #2 Wine of the Year 2024.

Winemaker Notes

A truly remarkable vintage of BV’s iconic flagship. The bouquet is intense with wild sage, blackcurrant, cedar, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied with layers of ripe blackberry, redcurrant, and red rose petal alongside graphite, licorice root, gravelly stone, and dark chocolate. French oak aging adds sandalwood, clove, and Ceylon cinnamon. The signature "Rutherford Dust" tannins are silky, polished, and fine-grained, finishing long with a cocoa powder texture.

Slightly reserved upon release but incredibly drinkable — significant presence, depth, and concentration foreshadowing cellar-worthy potential across the next few decades.

Tasting & Pairings

Cassis, wild sage, graphite, dark chocolate, blackberry, cedar, sandalwood, and Rutherford Dust. Full-bodied with polished, fine-grained tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2042+.

• Prime rib or dry-aged ribeye — the wine’s concentration and tannin structure demand equally serious beef.
• Braised lamb shank with herbs — the sage and cedar notes mirror herbed, slow-cooked meats.
• Dark chocolate truffles — the cocoa powder finish and chocolate aromatics are a decadent match.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 100 Points | "A unicorn wine." The acids naturally occurring with ease in this cool, long, extended growing season, producing wines of tremendous elegance and balance. Sourced entirely from Monte Bello Estate. Minerality is off the charts after barrel fermentation of 9 months on the lees in 85% American and 15% French oak (15% new). Gorgeously lengthy and bright.

Owen Bargreen 95 Points | Decanter 94 Points (Clive Pursehouse) | Wine Advocate 94 Points (Matthew Luczy) | Wine Spectator 93 Points (MaryAnn Worobiec)

Winemaker Notes

100% Chardonnay, organically grown on the Monte Bello Estate in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Apple fruit, brioche, and vanilla on the nose. Focused citrus, pear, bright acidity, and a clean finish on the palate. Barrel fermented for 9 months on lees in American and French oak.

About Ridge

Ridge Vineyards is one of California’s most iconic and historically significant wineries, founded in 1962 on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Known for their Monte Bello Cabernet, Ridge’s estate Chardonnay is crafted with the same uncompromising philosophy: organic farming, natural fermentation, and minimal intervention. The 2023 vintage represents a landmark release — a perfect score from Dunnuck confirms this as one of the greatest California Chardonnays ever produced.

Tasting & Pairings

Apple, brioche, vanilla, citrus, pear, and extraordinary minerality. Bright, lengthy, and elegant with focused acidity and a clean finish. Serve lightly chilled.

• Lobster or Dungeness crab with drawn butter — a wine of this caliber deserves equally luxurious shellfish.
• Roasted halibut or turbot with herbs — the minerality and acidity complement noble white fish.
• Aged Comté or triple-crème Brie — the brioche and oak notes pair beautifully with rich cheeses.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 94 Points | Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, dried strawberries, dried orange peel, spices and crushed stones. Medium to full body with compact, firm, finely grained tannins. Smooth and textured with vivid fruit underneath and a lingering finish. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Rich ruby color. A selection from the best vineyards, aged for two years. Toasted cedar, cherry lozenge, menthol, and spiced orange peel. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins folding into a mineral texture, mouthwatering stony earth, and a long, clean finish.

Robert Parker | Wine Advocate 93 Points | Ripe fruit with measured intensity that never feels heavy or overdone — achieving this level of balance is not easy in a hot growing season. Characterized by an especially linear and direct personality that pushes over the palate with good momentum.

Wine Spectator 90 Points | Juicy yet firmly structured with bright cherry and blackberry fruit. Dense tannins inform the finish with accents of earth and mineral. Balanced in a youthful, exuberant way. Best 2025–2039.

Winemaker Notes

Ruby red with a trace of garnet. Elegant nose displaying hints of spice and fruit. Well-structured with smooth tannins and a long finish. Certified organic Sangiovese from one of Chianti Classico’s most historic and beautiful estates.

Tasting & Pairings

Ripe cherry, dried strawberry, orange peel, crushed stones, cedar, menthol, and spice. Medium to full body with firm, finely grained tannins and a mineral finish. Decant or cellar through 2039.

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina or grilled lamb — the classic Tuscan pairing for a Riserva of this caliber.
• Wild boar ragù or pappardelle with meat sauce — the tannin structure and earthy notes complement rich, slow-cooked sauces.
• Aged Pecorino Toscano — a regional cheese that mirrors the wine’s earthy, mineral character.

Expert Review — Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points

Winemaker Notes

Handcrafted from premium vineyards across California’s coastal regions — from Monterey and San Benito on the Central Coast to Suisun Valley in the north. The diversity in soil and climate contributes to remarkable balance and depth. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and carefully destemmed to express bright fruit while maintaining freshness.

Tasting Notes

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

Pairings

• Roast chicken or grilled salmon — the bright fruit and silky tannins are a natural match.
• Mushroom risotto — earthy flavors complement the wine’s depth.
• Aged cheeses — the dry finish and acidity cleanse the palate between bites.

Our Professional Review

Debra, 67 Wine: A thrill-seeking wine from the volcanic region of Mt. Etna in Southern Italy. Benanti showcases 100% Carricante at its best — complexity on the nose with aromas of grapefruit, saline, and fresh acidity with lots of minerality. A pure varietal expression, full of life, vibrant, energetic, with a lingering finish.

About the Wine

The Benanti Etna Bianco 2024 is a hallmark expression of volcanic white wine from Sicily. Produced by one of the pioneering families of the Mount Etna region, this wine is celebrated for its sharp minerality and high-altitude freshness. 100% Carricante — the indigenous white grape of Etna.

The "volcanic" character is front and center: bone-dry and lean, driven by stony minerality and a distinct saline edge. Crisp acidity leads to a long, clean finish.

Tasting & Pairings

Grapefruit, saline, stony minerality, and tart orchard fruit. Bone-dry, lean, and vibrant with crisp acidity and a long, clean finish. Serve well chilled.

• Ricotta drizzled with citrus rind — a Sicilian classic that mirrors the wine’s grapefruit and saline notes.
• Grilled swordfish or tuna — the minerality and acidity stand up to meaty fish.
• Lemon pasta or seafood risotto — the wine’s citrus energy and salinity are a natural match.

#3 Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025 | #71 James Suckling Top 100 Wines of the USA 2025

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck — 98 Points | Blending 76% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane, 2% Alicante Bouschet, and 1% Mataro from an estate vineyard in Dry Creek Valley purchased in 1972, the 2023 Lytton Springs exhibits initial chewiness that leads to fine tannins, with good heft and underlying acidity. Well-woven oak supports a moderately ripe, medium-bodied frame of structured elegance, aged in 100% air-dried American oak. Enjoy now through 2033.

Decanter — 96 Points | A much cooler growing season delayed harvest by about a month, resulting in greater restraint than the previous vintage. Fresh aromas of herbs from a bouquet garni mix with earthy tones and subtle sweet notes from baking spices. The fruit profile oscillates between ripe red and black berries, with a touch of plums and ripe cherries. Tannins are firm yet polished, with a soft creaminess to the palate. Balanced and enjoyable now, with many years to evolve.

Wine Spectator — 95 Points | Deeply structured and full of tension, this polished red displays a distinctive personality, offering bold blackberry flavors accented with savory anise, black pepper, and dark Asian spices. Ends with big but refined tannins. Drink now through 2035.

James Suckling — 95 Points | A lovely release with lots of freshness from a cooler vintage. Bright and perfumed aromas of red cherries, raspberry coulis, confit plums, licorice, and spice. Full-bodied with finely tuned tannins and vibrant, crunchy acidity.

Vinous — 95 Points | Powerfully aromatic and expressive from the jump. Explodes from the glass with dark blue fruit, lavender, and blood orange peel, framed by mocha-like richness and a wave of exotic spice. The texture is pure silk. Remarkable persistence and poise — clearly built for the long haul.

Winemaker Description

Nose of raspberry, pepper, licorice, and a hint of vanilla. Black cherry and plum on the palate with supple tannins, minerality, and present acidity. Long, layered finish with notes of garrigue and black tea.

• Producer: Ridge Vineyards
• Vineyard: Lytton Springs Estate, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
• Blend: 76% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane, 2% Alicante Bouschet, 1% Mataro
• Aging: 100% air-dried American oak
• Vintage: 2023
• Drink: Now through 2035+
• Format: 750ml

Expert Review — Vintage 2022

Vinous (Eric Guido) — 90 Points
"The 2022 Etna Rosso wafts up with a perfumed blend of rosy florals and hints of juniper berry. This is vividly fruit-focused, with a wave of ripe wild berries and sweet spices that flow across a stream of brisk acidity. It leaves a staining of primary concentration and mildly grippy tannins to resonate as violet inner florals slowly fade. While more extroverted than expected, the 2022 is a total pleasure to taste and maintains fantastic balance."

Winemaker Notes

Benanti Etna Rosso is pale ruby red in color. The bouquet is ethereal and intense, with spicy red fruit aromas. Well balanced and medium-bodied, with a mineral-rich complexity, pleasant acidity, and a saline freshness on the long and lively finish.

Food Pairings

A versatile wine that pairs beautifully with red meats, aged cheeses, grilled fish, and white meats. Equally excellent by the glass.

Product Details

• Producer: Benanti
• Region: Etna DOC, Sicily, Italy
• Grape: Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Volcanic red — mineral, floral, saline
• Format: 750ml

Expert Review — Vintage 2024

James Suckling 93 Points | A ripe but balanced wine with plenty of golden apple and Bartlett pear flavors on a smooth, buttery texture. Some green apple acidity brightens up the ripeness, lifting vanilla bean, toast, and butterscotch nuances. Full-bodied.

Winemaker Description

Decoy Limited represents the elevated tier of the Decoy lineup — where the standard Decoy Chardonnay draws from across California, the Limited label focuses strictly on the cooler maritime vineyards of the Sonoma Coast, delivering more precision, depth, and structural complexity. The 2024 growing season brought a cool, wet winter and moderate spring, with harvest beginning mid-September. Strategic leafing and crop adjustments yielded white wines with fresh aromatics and lively acidity.

Food Pairings

Dungeness crab with drawn butter, lobster rolls, seared scallops, roasted chicken with cream-and-mushroom sauce, Fettuccine Alfredo, roasted squash with sage butter, and truffle mushroom risotto.

Winemaker Notes

Embodying the luxurious beauty of great Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, this alluring wine draws you in with complex aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, and sweet baking spices. Supple, round tannins frame juicy layers of dark berries and chocolate, with sophisticated hints of white pepper and toasty oak on a long, resonant finish.

About the Wine

The Decoy Limited series represents a step up from the standard Decoy line — sourced from a single premium appellation rather than a broader California blend. This bottling showcases Alexander Valley, one of Sonoma County’s most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon regions, known for its warm days, cool nights, and gravelly benchland soils that produce rich, structured reds.

Backed by the Duckhorn Portfolio — one of Napa and Sonoma’s most respected wine families — Decoy Limited delivers serious quality at a fraction of the flagship price.

Tasting & Pairings

Black cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, chocolate, baking spices, white pepper, and toasty oak. Supple and round with juicy dark fruit and a long finish.

• Grilled ribeye or NY strip — the supple tannins and dark fruit are built for steak night.
• Braised short ribs — the chocolate and baking spice notes complement slow-cooked, rich meats.
• Aged cheddar or Gouda — the oak and dark berry character pairs beautifully with firm, nutty cheeses.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Spectator 96 Points | #13 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2025. Energetic tumble of blackberry, boysenberry and blackcurrant paste injected with bramble and apple wood, supported by a licorice snap accent. Strapping finish laced with violet and iris notes, with a cast iron edge lending bass. Best from 2027 through 2045.   

James Suckling 96 Points | Extremely attractive aromas of blackcurrants and dried flowers with fresh herbs like basil and rosemary. Medium to full body with firm and velvety tannins, tension and focus. Long and chewy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | "One of the all-time greats from this château." Smoky currants, tobacco leaf, leather, and chocolaty notes. Sensationally textured, concentrated, medium to full-bodied. Plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe building tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Raised in 60% new oak. Three decades of longevity.

About the Wine

Château Talbot is a 4th Growth (Quatrième Cru Classé) estate in Saint-Julien, one of the Haut-Médoc’s most prestigious appellations. Named after the English commander John Talbot, the estate has been producing benchmark Left Bank Bordeaux for centuries. The 2022 vintage is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in 60% new French oak.

With a Wine Spectator Top 100 placement and Dunnuck calling it "one of the all-time greats," the 2022 is a landmark vintage for Talbot.

Tasting & Pairings

Blackcurrant, blackberry, boysenberry, tobacco, leather, chocolate, dried flowers, basil, rosemary, violet, and iris. Medium to full body with firm, velvety tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2045+.

• Rack of lamb with herbs de Provence — the herbal aromatics and firm tannins are a classic Bordeaux match.
• Dry-aged côte de boeuf — the wine’s concentration and structure demand serious beef.
• Aged Comté or Roquefort — the tobacco and chocolate notes complement rich, complex cheeses.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

James Suckling 95 Points | Spicy, stony and floral with deep blue fruit and hints of pine, incense and cloves. Veins of tannins show mineral verve. Firm, powerful and long. Already showing potential. Drink after 2028.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points | #50 in Dunnuck’s Top 100 Wines of 2025. "A beauty from bottle." Deep purple-hued with ripe, powerful darker currants, chocolate, smoked tobacco, and cedar pencils. Full-bodied with a broad, layered mouthfeel, ripe velvety tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. A decade to hit maturity; will age gracefully on its concentration and depth.

Wine Advocate 93 Points | "The best Meyney produced for quite some time." Crème de cassis, bay leaf and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, supple and fleshy with seamless tannin integration. Well worth seeking out.

Vinous 93 Points | "A serious overachiever." Dark, virile and imposing. Black fruit, cedar, leather, licorice, dried herbs and espresso. Swaths of tannin wrap it all together in style. Impressive.

Decanter 93 Points | Ripe brambleberry fruit, rich and filling. Crushed blue fruit pulp, fleshy and chewy with cool cola and liquorice accents. Full-bodied and full of flavour.

Wine Spectator 92 Points | Singed bay and dried lilac infuse bitter plum and dark cherry compote with a wet stone accent. Lightly chalky structure. Best 2027–2037.

About the Wine

Château Meyney is a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel estate in Saint-Estèphe, situated right next to the famed Château Montrose. Its proximity to the Gironde estuary helped cool the vines during the 2022 summer heatwaves, contributing to the wine’s remarkable balance in a historic vintage. Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot.

With six critics scoring it 92–95 and both Dunnuck and Wine Advocate calling it the best Meyney in years, the 2022 is a serious Bordeaux overachiever at under $50.

Tasting & Pairings

Dark currants, chocolate, smoked tobacco, cedar, blue fruit, incense, cloves, and espresso. Full-bodied with velvety tannins and extraordinary depth. Decant generously now or cellar through 2037+.

• Braised lamb shoulder or côte de boeuf — the power and tannin structure demand rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Duck confit or cassoulet — the dark fruit and tobacco notes complement hearty French classics.
• Aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire — the cedar and espresso character pairs beautifully with firm, nutty cheeses.

Antonioi Galloni of VInou has assigned 94 Points | The 2022 Barolo Massara is seriously impressive. In fact, it is one of my early favorites of the year. Broad and ample, the 2022 possesses a lovely level of textural intensity and complexity that is exceedingly rare in this vintage. Macerated cherry, new leather, spice and pomegranate lend an exotic flair while beams of tannin carry the mid-palate and finish effortlessly.” – 

95 Jeb Dunnuck: From one site, the 2015 Finca Iscorta De Pecina Gran Reserva has more density, more alcohol, more color, and more black fruit on the palate and should age outstandingly. Finca Iscorta is the winery’s oldest vineyard, which it treats as a grand cru, only making the wine in worthy years. The next won’t be until 2019. Strong and powerful in tannin and full-bodied weight, it could go another 20-30 years, so intensely concentrated, spiced, and textured, from both a powerful year and a powerful site. It spent four years in used American oak.

94  Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: A more modern Gran Reserva from a single vineyard, the 2015 Finca Iscorta de Peciña Gran Reserva was produced with the grapes from a 50-year-old vineyard, fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel with a moderate extraction and short-ish maceration. It matured in used American oak barrels for four years and was racked every six months. It's a little darker, the color and the fruit profile, and it's intensely balsamic, with notes of camphor and abundant spicy notes. It's solid and seamless and fills your mouth; it's powerful with 15% alcohol and 6.2 grams of acidity, ripe but balanced.

Winemaker Notes

Vietti is one of Piedmont’s most celebrated and historic estates, based in Castiglione Falletto in the heart of the Langhe. Renowned above all for their benchmark Barolo and Barbaresco, Vietti also produces one of the finest Moscato d’Asti in the region — the Cascinetta, sourced from estate vineyards in Santo Stefano Belbo in the Canelli zone, the most prized area for Moscato Bianco in all of Piedmont.

Winemaker Description

Bright straw-yellow with shimmering hints of gold. Intense aromas of ripe yellow fruit (peach, apricot), floral notes (rose petals, acacia flowers), and ginger. Sweet and delicate on the palate with modest acidity, good balance, and complexity. Hints of fresh apricot on the finish.

Food Pairings

Fresh fruit tarts, peach desserts, panna cotta, almond biscotti, panettone, and light pastries. Also stunning as an aperitif or alongside spicy Asian cuisine. Serve well chilled.

• Producer: Vietti
• Appellation: Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Moscato Bianco
• Style: Sweet, lightly sparkling (frizzante)
• ABV: ~5.5%
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

    •    Halliday Wine Companion (Philip Rich): 96 Points – "An absolute cracker... aromas of gently grilled nuts, confit lemon, and a touch of struck match."

    •    The Wine Advocate 94 Points - "The 2024 Circle of Fifths Chardonnay comprises a blend of all five single vineyards. The wine shows a little of all, and in so doing, some of none. There is the austerity of acidity and cavalcade of crushed, salted and pasted nuts, lemon zest, citrus oil and green leaves, coupled finally with the floral and tea-like notes evident in all five cuvées. It's an interesting composition, perhaps a little frenetic, like some of John Coltrane's work (Circle of Fifths is named after the jazz arrangement toward the circle of fifths root movement, whereas Coltrane's proclivity is in thirds, which is unusual. Giant Steps was named after Coltrane's studio album), but pleasurable in just the same way. In its way, this wine endorses and emphasizes the singularity of the single-vineyard wines, but it offers immense satisfaction of its own accord as well. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap."

    •    James Suckling: 95 Points – "Mid-weighted and textural with a strong mineral drive... mouthwatering finish."

    •     
The Wine Front: 95 Points – "Direct, powerful, and potent... it feels like a producer at the top of their game."


 
Winemaker Description  | Blended exclusively from our single vineyard sites, Circle of Fifths captures the strengths of these vineyards in one wine – carefully crafted and fine-tuned over myriad blending sessions. These wines were getting lost in the regional expression, and with the Fifths, these sites come together to tell a new story. 

The 2024 vintage was a more classic Yarra season. A cool start to Spring and ideal flowering conditions led to good fruit set and moderate yields. December was cool and mild, with significant rainfall at New Years and during the first week of January, giving the vines a good drink leading into the heat of February. Mid to late February was drier and warmer than is common in the Yarra, leading to great ripening conditions with no disease pressure and quite a fast vintage. In 2024, all of our Pinot and Chardonnay was ready in quick succession, leading to a compressed harvest - with the whole valley picked in the space of 3 weeks (where it normally spreads across 6 weeks). An exciting ride for our team, but ultimately giving us wines with great flavour, bright acidity and balance.

Memo Summary Notes

The Giant Steps "Circle of Fifths" Chardonnay 2024 is an inaugural, high-profile release from one of Australia's most acclaimed cool-climate producers. Recently named the 2025 Halliday Winery of the Year, Giant Steps created this "Circle of Fifths" series as a premium bridge between their regional blends and their specific single-vineyard bottlings.

The name is a musical reference to John Coltrane’s jazz theories, symbolizing the "harmony" created by blending fruit from all five of their estate single vineyards: Sexton, Tarraford, Applejack, Primavera, and Bastard Hill.