A pleasant freshness with a successful combination of red fruits such as cherries and currants; the short aging in wood rounds off the palate, providing notes of laurel and toast in perfect balance with its acidity.
2299 products
Tenuta di Ceppaiano Toscana Keith Haring 2017 750ml
Tenuta di Ceppaiano Toscana — Keith Haring Edition, Tuscany 2017
In 1989, Keith Haring traveled to Pisa to paint his iconic "Tuttomondo" mural — a monumental work that would become one of his last. During that visit, he gifted original artwork to the Castellani family of Tenuta di Ceppaiano, and that artwork now lives on the label of this wine. It is a collector's bottle in the truest sense: a 92-point Tuscan red wrapped in a piece of art history. The wine itself is a Sangiovese-led blend from the Toscana IGT, vinified to express the richness and depth of a warm, generous vintage. James Suckling awarded it 92 points.
The nose is complex and captivating: plums, blackcurrants, dark chocolate, tobacco, balsamic, and cigar box, layered with wild rose, dark cherry, cassis, mint, licorice, roasted coffee, and leather. On the palate, it is medium-to-full-bodied with a creamy, velvety texture, fine round tannins, flavors of black fruit, vanilla, cedar, and a hint of white chocolate, leading to a long, persistent finish of sweet spice and cedar. It is drinking beautifully now and will continue to evolve for years to come.
James Suckling 92 — "Aromas of plums, blackcurrants, dark chocolate, tobacco, balsamic and cigar box. Medium-to full-bodied with fine, round tannins. Creamy, velvety texture. Sweet spices on the flavorful finish. Drink or hold." (Vintage 2017).
- Producer: Tenuta di Ceppaiano / Castellani Family, Tuscany, Italy
- Vintage: 2017
- Appellation: Toscana IGT
- Region: Tuscany, Italy
- Varietal: Sangiovese-led blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot)
- Label Art: Original artwork gifted by Keith Haring to the Castellani family, 1989
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Plum, blackcurrant, dark chocolate, tobacco, wild rose, cassis, vanilla, cedar, sweet spice
- Best Paired With: Pasta with rich meat sauces, spicy Mediterranean dishes, rotisserie chicken with rosemary, aged pecorino
A 92-point Tuscan red with a one-of-a-kind story — Tenuta di Ceppaiano's Keith Haring edition is as compelling on the wall as it is in the glass.
Elvi EL26 Kosher Red 2021 750ml
Winemaker Description
Rich Bouquet, black fruits, spices and good balance. Fresh, fruity, aromatic fruit, good integration of the wood that allows the fruit to enhance. Good acidity and a light touch of ripe black cherries. Rich, deep, very complete wine, concentrated and long and persistent aftertaste, complex.
Memo Summary Notes
The Elvi "EL26" Kosher Red 2021 is a sophisticated, high-end blend from the prestigious Priorat region of Spain. Produced by Elvi Wines (founded by Dr. Moises Cohen), this wine is specifically crafted to showcase the unique volcanic "Llicorella" (slate) soils of the region while adhering to strict kosher standards.
Food Match: Its power makes it a perfect match for grilled ribeye steak, rack of lamb with a balsamic reduction, or even a high-end gourmet burger with caramelized onions.
Wine and Soul Pintas Douro 2022 750ml
Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022
Wine Advocate 95 Points | The nose of a dry Port — all violets, ripe plums and aromatic herbs, with plenty of spices, toast and smoke from 20 months in French oak (20% new). Needs time to integrate the oak and polish the tannins.
James Suckling 95 Points | Abundant dark fruit with blueberries, delicate violets and graphite. Fleshy and medium- to full-bodied, perfectly balanced by refreshing acidity through a clean, bright finish. Supple tannins. An old field blend of more than 40 varieties. Drink now or hold.
Wine Spectator 94 Points | Bursting with brambly boysenberry and blueberry, fragrant mountain herbs, graphite and woodsy spices. Fresh and focused with concentration and length in a medium-bodied frame. Chalky, integrated tannins with a salty, iron-laced tang. Classy. Drink now through 2035.
About Wine & Soul
Wine & Soul is the joint project of husband and wife Jorge Serôdio Borges and Sandra Tavares da Silva, both qualified oenologists. They bought an old port warehouse in the Vale de Mendiz in the heart of the Pinhão valley in 2003. The estate is 6 hectares with 2.5 ha under vine, averaging over 70 years old and planted with 30+ different varieties. The project is named after their dog Pintas, a Pointer.
Winemaking
Harvested in the second week of September in perfect conditions. All grapes were hand-selected, destemmed, and foot-trodden in traditional stone lagares throughout the full 10-day fermentation. Aging and malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels for 20 months.
Varietals: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Tinta Barroca, Rufete
Tasting & Pairings
Violets, ripe plums, boysenberry, blueberry, graphite, dark chocolate, mountain herbs, and woodsy spice. Medium- to full-bodied with chalky tannins, bright acidity, and a salty, iron-laced finish. Decant generously or cellar through 2035.
- Braised beef cheeks or short ribs — the wine’s structure and dark fruit depth are built for slow-cooked meats.
- Grilled lamb chops with rosemary — the herbal and spice notes mirror the wine beautifully.
- Aged Manchego or Serra da Estrela cheese — Iberian cheeses that complement the Douro’s earthy complexity.
Domaine Bitouzet Prieur Bourgogne Rouge 2024 750ml
Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Bourgogne Rouge — Burgundy 2024
Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur is one of Volnay's most respected family estates, and their Bourgogne Rouge is one of the great overachievers in all of Burgundy. Sourced from a single hectare of Pinot Noir planted between 1963 and 1970 in the lieu-dit Petit Près — situated just below the village-level Volnay vineyard Les Pasquiers, near the Meursault border — the wine is aged entirely in used barrels for 12 months to preserve the purity and transparency of the fruit. Allen Meadows of Burghound awarded it an Outstanding Top Value designation, calling it "a lovely Bourgogne."
The nose is cool, fresh, and finely etched: small red berries, cherry, red currant, spice, and a whisper of earth. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with succulent, delicious fruit, ample minerality, and a notable sense of refinement for its appellation level. The finish is persistent and ever-so-slightly rustic in the best Burgundian sense — and the wine has the structure to reward 2–3 years of cellaring.
Allen Meadows (Burghound) — Outstanding Top Value! — "A lovely Bourgogne worth considering."
Expert Reviews – Vintage 2024
Allen Meadows – Burghound | Outstanding Top Value | The slightly more elegant nose of mostly red berries and spice is cool and fresh. There is a bit more volume to the delicious and succulent middleweight flavors that conclude in an ever-so-mildly rustic finish that offers better depth and persistence. This is a lovely Bourgogne and worth considering — plus it has the stuffing to repay 2 to 3 years of keeping.
- Producer: Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur, Volnay, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
- Vintage: 2024
- Appellation: Bourgogne Rouge AOC
- Vineyard: Lieu-dit Petit Près, below Volnay Les Pasquiers, near Meursault border
- Vines Planted: 1963–1970
- Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
- Vinification: Aged 12 months in used barrels
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Red berries, cherry, red currant, spice, earth, minerality, persistent finish
- Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 2–3 years
- Best Paired With: Roast duck, chicken with mushrooms, charcuterie, Comté, pinot-friendly bistro fare
A Burghound Outstanding Top Value — Bitouzet-Prieur's Bourgogne Rouge punches well above its appellation with the soul of a village-level Volnay.
Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits 2020 750ml
Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits — Burgundy 2020
Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer is one of Burgundy’s most compelling small estates, and their Hautes-Côtes de Nuits is a masterclass in what old vines and meticulous winemaking can achieve at a village level. Sourced from one hectare of 60-year-old Pinot Noir planted in the lieux-dits En Foigery and Les Castaings in Magny-lès-Villers, the 2020 vintage is vinified with a pre-fermentation cold soak and spontaneous fermentation in cement tank, then aged 18 months in a combination of two-thirds 228-liter barrels (20% new oak) and one-third terracotta jar — a rare and thoughtful approach that preserves freshness and amplifies terroir. Bottled without filtration for maximum purity and expression.
The nose is spicier and slightly more deeply pitched than expected for the appellation: plum, black cherry, and subtle earth. On the palate, bigger and richer medium-weight flavors are framed by fine tension and lip-smacking minerality — fresh but serious, with clean, elegant tannins and an impressively long finish. Allen Meadows of Burghound calls it simply: “One to buy.”
Allen Meadows, Burghound — “A spicier and slightly more deeply pitched nose of plum, black cherry and subtle earth gives way to bigger and richer medium-weight flavors that also possess fine tension on the impressively long finish. One to buy.”
- Producer: Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer, Burgundy, France
- Vintage: 2020
- Appellation: Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits AOC
- Varietal: Pinot Noir
- Vine Age: 60 years
- Vineyards: En Foigery & Les Castaings, Magny-lès-Villers — 1ha
- Vinification: Cold soak, spontaneous fermentation in cement, 18 months in barrel (20% new) & terracotta jar, unfiltered
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Plum, black cherry, spice, earth, mineral, red fruit, elegant tannins, long finish
- Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–8 years
- Best Paired With: Roast chicken, duck breast, mushroom tart, gratin dauphinois, mild aged cheeses
Sixty-year-old vines, terracotta aging, and zero filtration — Hoffmann-Jayer’s Hautes-Côtes de Nuits is village Burgundy at its most honest and compelling.
Pol Roger Vinotheque Blanc De Blancs 2002 750ml
Winemaker Description
Since its 175th anniversary, Pol Roger has decided to offer a very limited range of older vintages from its iconic cuvées. After the original disgorgement, these bottles were then returned to the famously deep and cool Pol Roger cellars for additional extended maturation where they have rested undisturbed until their release.
Blanc de Blancs 2002 is a champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay selected from the finest Crus of the Côte des Blancs: Oiry, Chouilly, Cramant, Avize and Oger. Produced in limited quantities, this cuvée has matured for 10 years prior to disgorgement.
This is a thoroughbred, elegant sparkler. With its delicate acidity, apple and grapefruit flavors, and tense, steely texture, it is an extremely well-balanced wine. Although it is ready to drink now, it could certainly age in bottle for many years.
Wine Enthusiast 95 Points | This is a thoroughbred, elegant sparkler. With its delicate acidity, apple and grapefruit flavors, and tense, steely texture, it is an extremely well-balanced wine. Although it is ready to drink now, it could certainly age in bottle for many years.
Wine Spectator 93 Points | Firm, with a toasty base mixing with flavors of quince paste, pastry, dried apricot, raw almond and a hint of lemon curd. There's a clean-cut note of minerally salinity throughout, accompanied by a fine bead and a lingering finish. Drink now through 2022. 100 cases imported.
Bottle Size: 750ml | Region: Champagne, France
Tio Pepe Una Palma Fino Saca 2021 Jerez-Xeres-Sherry 500ml
Winemaker Description
The wine is showing light legs, an intense and powerful nose which reminds us of the veil of the flor, chalk, dried fruits as well as citric, salty and mineral notes.
On the palate, the wine is fresh, salty and tasty. The finish is persistent and balanced, reminding us of salt, hazelnuts, yeast and green olives, with a dry and slightly bitter aftertaste.
The Macharnudo and Carrascal pagos express the best of our soils in this intense, salty and flavour some Fino.The Solera, with over 6 years of biological ageing, is made up of a total of 139 casks, from which number 79, 95 and 96 were selected, all found on the second floor of the Gran Bodega Tio Pepe.
Memo Summary Notes
That's a very specific and excellent sherry! The Tio Pepe Una Palma Fino Saca 2021 is part of a special, limited-edition collection of Fino and Amontillado sherries from González Byass in Jerez.
Here is a summary of the details for this particular release:
🌟 Key Characteristics
* Type: Fino Sherry
* Producer: González Byass (Tío Pepe)
* Origin: D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry, Spain
* Grape: 100% Palomino Fino
* Ageing: Approximately 6 years under a dense layer of flor (a veil of yeast) through the traditional Solera system.
* Saca (Bottling Release): 2021 (Bottled in October 2021)
* Style: "Una Palma" (One Palm) indicates it's the youngest and freshest in the "Las Palmas" series, but still an older and more intense Fino than the standard Tio Pepe. It is typically bottled "en rama" (unfiltered or lightly filtered) to retain maximum flavor and character.
* Bottle Size: 500ml (50cl)
* The Saca 2021 is celebrated for its concentration, intensity, and purity of the flor character:
* Appearance: Pale yellow to bright golden color.
* Nose: Intense and powerful, dominated by yeasty notes from the flor (like fresh bread or brioche), combined with aromas of almonds/nuts, chalk/talc, seaweed/brine, and sometimes a hint of bruised or green apple.
* Palate: Bone-dry, full-bodied, fresh, and intensely salty (saline) and savory. It offers flavors of green olives, hazelnuts, and a persistent, slightly bitter, yet balanced finish.
* Overall: It is an intense, concentrated, and very dry sherry that beautifully captures the essence of prolonged biological aging.
* 🍽️ Pairing
This Fino is an ideal aperitif and pairs wonderfully with:
* Traditional Spanish Tapas: Almonds, olives, Jamón Ibérico.
* Seafood: Anchovies, sushi, sashimi, smoked fish.
* Complex Dishes: Artichokes, asparagus, and Asian cuisine, which can be difficult to pair with other wines.
Rudi Pichler RIESLING Smaragd Terrassen 2022 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022
Vinous 94 Points | The 2022 Riesling Terrassen Smaragd is from 20- to 60-year-old vines planted on higher parcels at 250-350 meters. The nose has something of an eau de Cologne sense, with its conifer and citrus spice. The palate is super slender, very linear and uncompromisingly fresh, without a suspicion of fat or any opulence. This treads a thin line on perfect tiptoe. There is a weightless quality here. This is brimming with lemon and utterly fresh.
The Wine Spectator 93 Points | With fullness to the lychee, green plum and quince flavors, this delicious, mouthcoating and salty white is laced with baking spice notes. Stays elegant and well-defined despite its plump profile, offering zesty clementine acidity, with dried sage and fresh-cut grass notes bringing a savory dimension. Drink now through 2032.
Winemaker Description
Wachau Riesling is dry and often defined by high levels of dry extract (due to a lengthy ripening period) and a pleasing freshness (due to dramatic temperature swings between day and night). Soils of primary rock from various terraced sites give this dry Riesling subtle minerality accompanied by aromas and flavors of citrus and stone fruit.
Riesling’s high acidity makes it one of the most versatile wines at the table. Riesling can be used to cut the fattiness of foods such as pork or sausages and can tame a certain amount of saltiness. Conversely, it can highlight foods such as fish or vegetables in the same way a squeeze of lemon or a vinaigrette can.
Rudi Pichler is among the elite growers of the Wachau producing wines of precision, power, and longevity. Grüner Veltliner and Riesling make up 95% of the production with the remaining 5% shared between Weißburgunder and Roter Veltliner. Rudi Pichler belongs to the prestigious Vinea Wachau and vinifies under the strict parameters of their codex.
Yields are kept low between 30 and 35 hectoliters per hectare with botrytis carefully removed by hand. Grapes are crushed by foot and receive between three and 36 hours of maceration on the skins. Vinification is entirely in stainless-steel tanks and malolactic fermentation is avoided.
Weingut Rudi Pichler consists of 37 acres spread between Wösendorf, Joching, and Weißenkirchen where south-facing terraces look down at the Danube River. Terrassen indicates it is a cuvée from multiple terraced sites. Smaragd is a term used by Vinea Wachau members indicating a dry wine with a minimum alcohol of 12.5%.
Quinta de Chocapalha Lisboa Arinto CH Old Vines Vinhas Velhas 2020 750ml
Winemaker Description
Very fresh and delicate nose with citric and floral notes. On the palate, the wine shows great texture and minerality, with excellent acidity and complexity.
Because of the Arinto grape’s natural high acidity, this wine is fantastic for food pairing. The best pairings are richer seafood dishes such as Portuguese bacalhau (salt cod), scallops in citrus butter sauce, oysters, lobster or crab dishes. Japanese food, spicy food, curry and grilled vegetables are also wonderful pairing options.
Anima Negra Quibia Falanis 2022 750ml
Expert Review - Vintage 2022
The Wine Advocate 91 Points | The white 2022 Quíbia was produced with 60% Premsal and 40% Giró Ros and sold as a generic wine without appellation because of the use of the Giró Ros grape. It matured with lees in stainless steel before being bottled. It has 12.9% alcohol and good freshness. Unfortunately, it feels quite reductive and is difficult to read on the nose, but the palate feels vibrant and fresher. Give it a little bit of time.
Memo Notes
The 2022 is celebrated for blending aromatic fruit with a refreshing, savory quality:
Color: Enticing straw-lemon with greenish highlights.
Aromas: A delightful mix of ripe white peach, pear, jasmine, and the striking note of sea brine or crushed seashells. You may also find subtle hints of Meyer lemon and green mango.
Palate: Crisp, lively, and well-balanced. The wine delivers concentrated flavors of ripe peach,
Anjou pear, and citrus zest. Reviewers often mention a silky, almost olive oil-like texture and a savory note of capers or green almond.
Salinity: A distinct salinity runs through the wine, acting as a complex counterpoint to the fruit, which makes it incredibly versatile with food.
Winemaker Description
Ànima Negra was founded in 1994 when two self-taught friends — Pere Ignasi Obrador and Miquelàngel Cerdà — decided that the wines of their native Mallorca weren’t reaching full potential.
Taking advantage of some unused milk tanks at the dairy farm owned by Pere’s family, they made two barriques of wine from Callet grapes (a native Mallorcan varietal) they’d purchased from local farmers. The initial results were so encouraging that the friends decided to form a partnership and continue pursuing their newly found passion for wine.
Situated in the southeast of Mallorca, Ànima Negra winery produces its wines on the old country estate of Son Burguera, close to the town of Felanitx. The buildings date back to the 13th century, and contain a traditional winemaking area, which historically was used to supply wine for locals living on and near the estate.
Ànima Negra sources its grapes from more than 135 carefully selected parcels of land that the partners either own or control. Virtually all of these parcels are within a six-mile radius of the winery, and most of the vines are 50 to 85 years old.
Jezreel Reserve ICON Kosher Red Blend Israel 2020 750ml
Winemaker Description
This unique Israeli wine represent the best of the best of the specific vintage. Made from Jezreel's top rated barrels of Syrah and Carignan.
Aromas of dark fruit, such as blackberry and black cherry, complemented by hints of leather, tobacco, and spice. On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long, smooth finish.
Aged for 22 months in oak barrels.
Pair with grilled meats, hearty stews, or aged cheeses.
Memo Summary Notes
The Jezreel Valley Winery is a boutique winery located in the Jezreel Valley region of Israel, specifically in Kibbutz Hanaton.
The Jezreel Valley itself has one of the longest traditions of winemaking in the region.
Biblical Connection: The Jezreel Valley is famous in the Bible, most notably as the location of Naboth's Vineyard (1 Kings 21), a story that highlights the area's ancient importance for viticulture.
Archaeological Evidence: Archaeologists have uncovered a large, rock-cut ancient winery complex at the foot of Tel Jezreel, which dates back to the 9th century BCE, around the time of King Ahab and Naboth. This shows the land has been producing wine for thousands of years.
Luneau-Papin Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine "L D`Or" 2009 750ml (Pre-Sale - Expected February 2026)
The 2009 L d’Or delivers a richer, slightly broader expression of this iconic single-vineyard Muscadet while retaining its hallmark finesse and mineral precision. The warmer vintage brings notes of ripe pear, lemon curd, and white peach alongside the classic aromas of crushed granite, oyster shell, and fresh herbs. On the palate, it’s generous yet impeccably balanced, with supple texture lifted by bright acidity and a long, saline, stony finish. A beautifully mature Muscadet that combines depth, freshness, and terroir transparency—released directly from the domaine’s cellar and drinking at a gorgeous point today.
Luneau-Papin Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine "L D`Or" 2008 750ml (Pre-Sale - Expected February 2026)
The 2008 L d’Or is a strikingly fresh and finely structured mature Muscadet, drawn from old vines rooted in the estate’s signature granite soils. This vintage shows lifted aromas of citrus oil, green apple skin, crushed stone, and sea breeze, layered with subtle notes of almond and fennel as it opens. On the palate, it’s tense, vibrant, and beautifully chiseled, carrying the classic saline edge that defines great Muscadet. Long, mineral, and impeccably balanced, this is a superb example of how L d’Or evolves with time—precise, elegant, and still remarkably youthful despite its age.
Tormaresca Castel del Monte Bocca di Lupo Puglia Organic 2017 750ml
Winemaker Description
A bold and structured red with hints of ripe cherries and Mediterranean herbs. Organic elegance at a remarkable value.
A vibrant and elegant red from Puglia, Italy, this organic wine showcases the region’s signature Nero di Troia grape. On the nose, it offers aromas of dark cherry, plum, and subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs. The palate is structured yet approachable, with soft tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors of ripe red fruit, cocoa, and a touch of minerality. Perfect with roasted meats, hearty pasta dishes, or aged cheeses, this wine embodies the rich terroir of southern Italy while remaining fresh and expressive.
Prieler Oggau Johanneshohe Blaufrankisch 2022 750ml
Winemaker Description
Elegant, approachable, and focused on drinkability and fruit, with depth and balance. It's often described as a great representation of classic Blaufränkisch, showcasing its lighter, more mineral side.
Dark berries, wild cherry, violets, cracked pepper, a subtle herbal/spice background, and an earthy edge. Soft, juicy, and lively with bright acidity. Flavors often include dark berries, plum, graphite, and spice. Some notes mention a salty, peppery, and iron-rich minerality.
Medium-bodied with fine, well-dispersed, or "dusty" tannins that play a supporting role. It has a bright, engaging, and long finish.
Sourced from vineyards in and around Oggau in Burgenland, Austria, with soils comprised of limestone, mica-schist, and slate.
The winery practices organic farming.
Fermented in stainless steel with native yeast, often racked into used Stockinger (large wooden) barrels for aging. The focus is on achieving ripeness while maintaining freshness and lower alcohol.
Ancient Peaks Zinfandel Santa Margarita Ranch 2022 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022
The Tasting Panel 92 Points | Quintessential aromas of ripe berries and plum are joined by vanilla and peppercorn in this textbook Zin grown on the most southerly estate vineyard in Paso Robles 14 miles from the Pacific. The result is a red of effusive energy and real charm that's fruit-forward enough to sip on its own yet has sufficient spice and structure to stand up to grilled meats.
The Wine Spectator 89 Points | Snappy and briary, with user-friendly raspberry and green peppercorn flavors that end with zesty tannins. Drink now through 2030. 4,008 cases made.
Enrique Mendoza La Tremenda Monastrell Alicante 2024 750ml
Winemaker Description
The name "La Tremenda" references the name of the vineyard from which the grapes for this wine are grown and handharvested. Made entirely from mature Monastrell vines, carefullyraised in the harsh, arid landscape of Alicante. "The vine must suffer..." and here it does.
Bright ruby-red in color, this wine shows expressive notes of fresh black cherries and red berries mingled with hints of sweet spice, toast and cocoa. On the palate, this accessible red shows silky texture, liveliness and long length.
Pair it with pork chops Normandy, Kobe beef, or parmesan-crusted asparagus tips.
Memo Summary Notes
Pair With -
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Meats: Grilled hamburgers, pork chops (especially with savory sauces), Kobe beef, or leg of lamb.
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Vegetarian: Rich dishes like mushroom risotto or parmesan-crusted asparagus tips.
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Classic Spanish: Paella with meat, or aged Manchego cheese.
Clos Mont-Blanc Conca de Barbera Xipella Negre 2021 750ml
Our Professional Review
Oscar Garcia Moncada | Senior Wine Buyer | Xipella” refers to a local Catalan dialect spoken in the Conca de Barberà area. This blend of Samsó (Carignan) and Cabernet Sauvignon is packed with dark fruit — think blackberries, black cherries, and black plum — supported by vibrant acidity and a beautifully persistent finish. An ideal companion for poultry stews, hanger steak, or grilled tuna.
Winemaker Description
Winemaking and aging | The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature between 25 and 28 °C. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged in new and used barrels for 12 to 16 months.
Tasting note | Red wine of intense colour. Powerful ripe fruit aroma, notes of mineral and oak barrel. In the mouth, it presents friendly and tempting, with smooth, well-integrated tannins and a long, persistent finish.
Type of vine | Vines located in the area of the cellar, at an altitude of 470 meters.
Memo Summary Notes
Samso, Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Clos Mont-Blanc Xipella Negre 2021 is a sophisticated red blend from the Conca de Barberà region in Catalonia, Spain. Known for its balance of indigenous and international varieties, this vintage offers a modern expression of a historic wine-growing area.
The Conca de Barberà DO is unique for its limestone soils and high-altitude vineyards (around 470 meters for this specific wine). This elevation provides a thermal contrast between day and night, which helps preserve the acidity and freshness of the grapes, preventing the wine from feeling overly heavy despite its ripeness.
Domaine de Souch Jurancon Moelleux 2024 500ml
Winemaker Description
Domaine De Souch. Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, near the Atlantic Ocean, at an altitude of 332 meters above sea level. This is where the pure, crisp wines of Domaine De Souch are produced. Winemaker Yvonne Hegoburu was 60 years old when she decided to start making wine here in 1987. At the time, she was one of the first to work entirely biodynamically in the region. Today, she owns 7 hectares of land; the vineyards face south and are largely planted with Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng.
Yvonne Hegoburu, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 95, was living proof that it is never too late to follow your winemaking dreams. It all started when Yvonne and her husband René purchased 16 hectares of land in the Jurançon region in southwest France. The couple lived together in the small hilltop village of Laroin until 1987, when René unexpectedly passed away. Yvonne recalled how the duo would fervently discuss their winemaking dreams; in her husband’s honor, she decided to pursue viticulture for the first time at the age of 60. Today, Domaine de Souch is comprised of 7 hectares of biodynamically farmed vines, which have been certified since 1994.
Yvonne was taken by biodynamics early on. She believed that farming without herbicides and pesticides is the truest and most honest form of winemaking. The vines are double guyot trained and rooted into flinty clay soils. All fruit is hand-harvested and comes from south-facing vines grown at 1,000+ feet above sea level. The vineyards are mostly dedicated to Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng, two of southwest France’s most well-known varieties.
Yvonne herself said it best in the acclaimed documentary, Mondovino: “I planted vines when my husband died. Ever since then, all this love inside me, I give it to the vines. I talk to them. I have an exchange with them. I ask them to drive their roots deep down into the soil to get the best from the land.” Yvonne worked the vines tirelessly until 2014, when she handed over the operation of the domaine to her son Jean-René, who continues to make wine in the style of his mother to this day. We are inspired by the Hegoburu family’s robust work ethic and passion for honest viticulture as the domaine continues into the next generation.
The vineyards have been fully biodynamically certified since 1994. The yields are low, never more than 30 hl per hectare, and the soil consists of heavy "flinty" clay called poudingues. This combination results in intense wines with high acidity and exceptional minerality.
Domaine de Souch Cuvee Monplaisir Jurancon Sec 2024 750ml
Winemaker Description
The dry jurançon perfectly represents the style of the estate: precise, pure and grandiose. a straight, tense white wine. the attack is lively, the mid-palate is incredibly intense and the finish never ceases to delight us. the blend of native grape varieties is judiciously developed for a stunning result. its aging potential is certain.
For over thirty-five years, Domaine de Souch has been a pioneer in producing modern-style Jurançon wines. Certified organic and biodynamic since 1994, their south-facing terraced vineyards are nestled on steep slopes with views of the Pyrenees Mountains.
Memo Summary Notes
The Domaine de Souch "Cuvée Monplaisir" Jurançon Sec 2024 is a standout white wine from one of the most soulful estates in Southwest France. The winery was famously founded by Yvonne Hegoburu, who began her winemaking journey at the age of 60 in honor of her late husband and became a pioneer of biodynamics in the region.
The ultimate partner for shellfish (oysters, crab, lobster). It also cuts beautifully through the richness of sheep’s milk cheeses (like Ossau-Iraty), grilled trout, or summer salads with citrus vinaigrettes.
Bodegas Alto Moncayo Campo de Borja Grenache Locos Por El Vino Zismero 2023 750ml
Winemaker Description
"Locos por el Vino” is a new project from Bodegas Alto Moncayo, aiming to expand their range with high-quality, modern and casual wines produced from the winery’s youngest vineyards, guaranteeing the continuity of the Alto Moncayo project for future generations to come. A local term used in the village of Borja, "Zismero" refers to one who is provocative, jovial, and mirthful, with a complexity and uniqueness that makes its audience think deeply from the pointed jocularity.
Enjoy with chicken and rice dishes, barbeque, or pasta with vegetables.

Feudi del Pisciotto Carolina Marengo Frappato 2024
Winemaker Description
Distinguished by its ruby red color and a fresh bouquet of red berry fruits and sweet spices. Round on the palate, with a lively acidity, the wine is well balanced and persistent.
As is the case with the Nero d’Avola variety, Frappato also demonstrates Sicily’s full winemaking potential, able to produce a powerful, persistent and very elegant wine that inspires the taster from its very first olfactory notes, which characterise it in an unmistakable manner. Label drawn by Carolina Marengo.
Frappato is ideal with fresh cheeses, cold cuts and full-flavored fish dishes.
Distinguished by its ruby red color and a fresh bouquet of red berry fruits and sweet spices. Round on the palate, with a lively acidity, the wine is well balanced and persistent.
As is the case with the Nero d’Avola variety, Frappato also demonstrates Sicily’s full winemaking potential, able to produce a powerful, persistent and very elegant wine that inspires the taster from its very first olfactory notes, which characterise it in an unmistakable manner. Label drawn by Carolina Marengo.
Frappato is ideal with fresh cheeses, cold cuts and full-flavored fish dishes.
Emmanuel Brochet Champagne Rose de Saignee Extra Brut R21 750ml
Expert Reviews - Base 2021
The Wine Advocate 95 Points | Emmanuel Brochet’s NV Le Mont Benoit (2021 base), which includes 40% reserve wines from 2020 and 2019, was disgorged in May 2024 with a dosage of four grams per liter—slightly higher than usual. He notes that this modest adjustment was necessitated by the incisive profile of the base vintage. The wine unfurls from the glass with aromas of green apple, chamomile and peeled almond. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied, chiseled, bright and laden with electric acidity, culminating in a long, chalky finish marked by a distinctive bitterness. Stylistically, this bottling slightly diverges from recent iterations shaped by a string of warm vintages, but qualitatively speaking, it is unmistakably the same superb cuvée. While Brochet himself expresses a degree of dissatisfaction due to its higher malic acid, such critique speaks to the standards of a perfectionist. This rendition, in all likelihood, will age beautifully over the coming years.
Memo Summary Notes
The Emmanuel Brochet Rosé de Saignée Extra Brut "R21" is a highly sought-after, "unicorn" grower Champagne. It is crafted by Emmanuel Brochet, a cult producer based in Villers-aux-Nœuds on the Montagne de Reims, known for his tiny production and extremely meticulous organic farming.
The "R21" notation indicates that the base year for this non-vintage release is the 2021 harvest.
Domaine de la Romanee Conti Echezeaux Grand Cru Biodynamic 2022 750ml
Expert Review - Vintage 2022
Antonio Galloni of Vinous writes 95 Points | The 2022 Echezeaux Grand Cru is absolutely exquisite, not to mention a significant step up in the range. Impossibly silky tannins and deep, penetrating aromatics give the Echezeaux its seductive personality. Medium in body and polished, with phenomenal balance, the Echezeaux shows how compelling the vintage is. There is no heaviness at all, nor any sign of a growing season marked by severe heat and drought.
Winemaker Description
With a more textured and intense character than Échezeaux, Grands-Échezeaux presents a rich, almost rustic profile. The wine offers a concentrated palate of dark fruits, with gamey nuances and bramble hints, wrapped in a structured yet velvety texture. It's a wine of depth and character, often described as having a "monastic" quality. It is “Grands” before being Échézeaux. It is a country gentleman, aristocrat and dreamer.
Oyster King Melon de Bourgogne Grand Vin de Loire 2024 750ml
Oyster King · Melon de Bourgogne · Grand Vin de Loire · France · 2024
The name says it all. Oyster King is built for the table — specifically, for a cold platter of briny bivalves and a glass of something lean, mineral, and refreshing. Made from Melon de Bourgogne, the grape of Muscadet, this Loire Valley white is the archetype of the oyster wine: soft, light, and driven by a saline minerality that makes it one of the most food-friendly whites at any price point. The 2024 vintage delivers exactly what the grape promises — no more, no less — with the kind of honest, unpretentious character that keeps you reaching for the bottle.
This exceptional wine, crafted by renowned winemaker Jean Luc Olivier, is grown and produced in the Loire Valley’s estuary, where the majestic river descends from the mountains and meets the Atlantic Ocean.
This traditional grape is grown on Kimmeridgian soil, a limestone-based loam; its clay is calcareous, and its limestone has developed from the accumulation of both oyster and sea shells over millions of years. This magic terroir gives the wines their vibrancy and minerality.
Pale straw in the glass with a clean, inviting nose of green pear, lemon zest, and honeydew melon. On the palate, lean bright acidity and a subtle mineral thread carry through to a clean, refreshing finish. Light-bodied and precise, it is the kind of wine that disappears effortlessly alongside seafood, shellfish, or a simple summer meal.
- Producer: Oyster King
- Vintage: 2024
- Appellation: Grand Vin de Loire, France
- Varietal: 100% Melon de Bourgogne
- Style: Dry white — light, mineral, crisp
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Green pear, lemon zest, honeydew melon, saline minerality, clean finish
- Pairings: Oysters, clams, mussels, grilled fish, seafood platters, light salads
Grand Vin de Loire — the quintessential oyster wine. Lean, mineral, and made for the table.
Joseph Drouhin Beaune Clos des Mouches 2023 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023
James Suckling 98 Points | The iodine, blackberry and rose-stem character comes through clearly. Plenty of fruit and depth. Medium-bodied with fine tannins that caress the palate and provide endless flavors of Indian spices, flint, nutmeg and light crust. Such refinement and integrity. Drinkable now, but better in three or four years.
The Wine Advocate 93 Points | The 2023 Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Mouches (Domaine) is showing nicely, bursting with aromas of sweet berries, spices, orange zest and new oak. Medium to full-bodied, succulent and lively, with chalky grip on the finish, it will offer a broad drinking window.
Decanter 93 Points | Lovely cherry fruit with hints of lavender and rosemary. The texture is silky and dense, almost fat. There is more clay here, and less limestone than in Les Cras, and the tannic structure is not as firm. The grapes are from Drouhin's massive 6.75ha here, not far from Pommard; they are partially destemmed and fermented on native yeasts before ageing in cask (25% new) for 14–18 months.
Familia Pujol-Busquets Garnatxa Negra Organic Catalunya 2023 750ml
Expert Review - Vintage 2023
The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points by Elaine Chukan Brown | Juicy, fresh and mouthwatering, this flavorful and friendly red delivers flavors of red plum, mixed berries, fennel, and a touch of sweet vanilla.
Winemaker Description
Alta Alella is the closest winery to Barcelona, located 2 kilometres from the Mediterranean between the towns of Alella and Tiana. It is a family-run project that began in 1991 with Josep Maria Pujol-Busquets and his wife Cristina Guillen. Now the estate is headed up by their daughter, Mireia.
Alella is one of the smallest appellations in Spain yet it possesses a fascinating terroirs that the Alta Alella team have harnessed in their journey to being recognised as the premier estate in the region. All the vines are planted on slopes and terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, between 100 and 250m above sea level. One of the key elements is the Sauló soil found throughout the vineyard.
Particular to this region, Sauló is an acidic and sandy soil with a low limestone content, low organic matter and good natural water drainage – ideal for the production of clean wines with a mineral edge.
Chateau Cantenac Brown Margaux 2021 750ml
Founded in 1806 by Scottish wine merchant John Lewis Brown of Colstun, Château Cantenac Brown is one of Margaux's most storied estates — a 3ème Grand Cru Classé of 1855, instantly recognizable by its spectacular Tudor-style château. Acquired in 2019 by the Le Lous family, the estate is undergoing a new chapter of modernization, including the construction of a pioneering raw earth cellar designed to deepen the expression of terroir in every bottle.
The Château Cantenac Brown Margaux 2021 750ml is a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, with the Cabernet harvested late — between October 4th and 12th — to achieve full phenolic ripeness. Aged in 60% new French oak, it is medium to full-bodied, layered, and seamless, with a perfumed bouquet of black cherry, raspberry, cassis, tobacco, and rose petal. The palate is vibrant and exquisitely structured, with chalky tannins, lively acidity, and a long, elegant finish marked by crushed stone and a touch of bitter dark chocolate. A wine of great character, definition, and classicism.
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021
- Decanter — 93 Points: "Perfumed black cherries and raspberries on the nose. Waves of juicy, bright red summer berries with creamy, chalky edges. Great character, energy and classicism with slate and crushed stone. Extremely attractive finish."
- Jane Anson — 93 Points: "Excellent quality, well put together, finessed and powerful with black cherry fruits and raspberry purée, with tiny pulses of lemongrass acidity."
- Wine Advocate — 92–94 Points: "Cassis, wild berries, loamy soil and cigar box. Medium to full-bodied, layered and seamless, with good concentration, lively acids and a nicely defined finish."
- Vinous — 92–94 Points: "Sweet red-fleshed fruit, tobacco, incense and rose petal. Vibrant and exquisitely layered. Quite promising."
Wine Details
- 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot
- Margaux AOC, 3ème Grand Cru Classé, Bordeaux, France
- Aged in 60% new French oak
- Vintage: 2021
- 750ml
Gamet Champagne Rose Brut NV 750ml
Gamet Champagne Rosé Brut NV — Vallée de la Marne, Champagne (Base 2021)
Champagne Gamet is a fourth-generation grower-producer — récoltant manipulant — rooted in three villages on both banks of the Marne: Mardeuil on the left bank, and Fleury-la-Rivière and Damery on the right. Founded after World War I by Victoire Garnier and carried forward by Marianne Gamet today, the estate farms eight hectares of practicing organic vineyards and controls every step from vine to bottle. This Rosé Brut NV is a black-grape-only blend — 85% Meunier, 15% Pinot Noir — with 8% red Meunier Coteaux Champenois vinified in foudre, built on a 70% 2021 base with 30% reserve wines back to 2014. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 92 points. At $57.99, it is one of grower Champagne’s most compelling values.
The wine opens with bright red cherry fruit, chalk, mint, white pepper, and orange peel, lifted by vivid acidity. On the palate, it is powerful and vinous with a thick, creamy mousse, flavors of raspberry purée, juicy apricot, tea rose, and slivered almond, and a clay minerality that gives volume and structure. Aged 25 months on the lees, dosed at 5g/L, and disgorged January 2025. Festive, full-bodied, and built for the table.
"The NV Brut Rosé is a powerful, vinous Champagne. Bright red cherry fruit, chalk, mint, white pepper and orange peel fill out its layers, lifted by bright acids that wrap it all together. This Meunier-driven Rosé is particularly impressive." — Jeb Dunnuck, 92 Points
"A tightly meshed rosé Champagne set on a thick, creamy mousse, with firm acidity defining flavors of raspberry purée, juicy apricot, tea rose and slivered almond." — Wine Spectator, 90 Points
- Producer: Champagne Gamet, Mardeuil, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France
- Cuvee: Rosé Brut NV (Base 2021)
- Appellation: Champagne AOC
- Sub-Region: Vallée de la Marne
- Blend: 85% Meunier, 15% Pinot Noir (8% vin rouge in foudre)
- Farming: Practicing Organic
- Vinification: Stainless steel with 10% oak; yes malo; 25 months on lees; dosage 5g/L
- Disgorgement: January 2025
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Red cherry, chalk, mint, white pepper, raspberry, apricot, tea rose, creamy mousse
- Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2029
- Best Paired With: Oysters, lobster, salmon tartare, charcuterie, strawberry desserts
A 92-point grower Champagne Rosé from one of the Marne’s most dedicated family estates — Gamet is the benchmark for what practicing organic Meunier can deliver in a glass.
Celler Balart Amfora Negre Terra Alta 2024 750ml
Celler Balart Amfora Negre Terra Alta 2024 750ml
Experience the richness of Celler Balart Amfora Negre Terra Alta 2024, an exquisite wine that captures the essence of its region. This vintage offers a unique blend of local grapes, expertly crafted to showcase the rich terroir of Terra Alta in Catalonia, Spain. Celler Balart's dedication to quality and tradition is evident in every sip, delivering a delightful experience that wine enthusiasts will cherish. This wine is not just a drink; it's an invitation to explore the rich culinary landscape of Spain.

Amphora Fermentation
The "Amfora" in the name refers to the traditional amphora (clay vessel) fermentation process, an ancient winemaking technique that imparts unique mineral characteristics and texture to the wine. This method provides distinctive citrus fruits and mineral notes that complement the natural fruit character of the grapes.
Grape Variety
Garnatxa Negre (Grenache Noir)
This wine showcases the classic characteristics of Grenache, including apple, peach, and banana notes typical of the variety, enhanced by the amphora fermentation process.
Tasting Profile
Appearance: Clean and bright, intense cherry color. Deep ruby color
Aroma: Red and black fruits, licorice, mineral touches, slightly balsamic. Apple, peach, banana typical of Grenache, citrus fruits and minerals provided by the amphora
Palate: Voluminous, friendly, silky. Full-bodied with harmonious balance. Fine tannins and well-integrated acidity. Unctuous and greedy. Bold character with dark fruit flavors complemented by earthy undertones derived from amphora fermentation
Finish: Long and elegant finish. Smooth finish
Terra Alta Terroir
This vintage highlights the vibrant personality of grapes from the Terra Alta region in Catalonia, Spain. The wine embodies the spirit of the land, bringing forward flavors that are both distinct and memorable. The 2024 vintage showcases the winemaker's meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each bottle reflects the rich terroir of Terra Alta.
Traditional Winemaking Excellence
Celler Balart combines traditional amphora fermentation with expert winemaking to create wines that seamlessly blend fruity notes with depth and complexity. The amphora aging process adds unique mineral characteristics and texture, creating a wine with distinctive personality and artistry.
Food Pairing Suggestions
This full-bodied red pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:
- Red meats and grilled meats
- Game meats
- Barbecue and roasts
- Hearty stews
- Cured cheeses and rich cheeses
- Risottos
- Seafood and blue fish
- White meats
Versatile for Every Occasion
Perfect for both casual gatherings and special celebrations, this wine adds a touch of sophistication to any occasion. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening at home or celebrating with friends, Celler Balart Amfora Negre elevates your dining experience to new heights. Ideal for both seasoned wine drinkers and newcomers alike, this wine is sure to impress your palate.
Catalonian Winemaking Heritage
Celler Balart represents the artistry and passion of Catalonian winemaking. Each bottle reflects the dedication that goes into producing this remarkable wine, showcasing the unique characteristics of Terra Alta's terroir combined with ancient amphora fermentation techniques. Embrace the tradition and innovation that defines this exceptional Spanish red wine.
2024 Vintage Excellence
The 2024 vintage offers enticing aromas and a nuanced flavor profile that wine enthusiasts will cherish. With its deep ruby color, bold character, and smooth finish, this wine embodies excellence and rich flavor, making it a perfect choice for exploring the vibrant culinary landscape of Spain.
Chateau Cos Labory Saint-Estephe 2019 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019
James Suckling 94 Points | Aromas of redcurrants, flowers and spices, such as nutmeg. Some cherries, too. It’s full-bodied, yet racy and energetic. Chewy tannins. Structured. One of the best Cos Labory in a long time. This needs three or four years to come together.
Decanter 92 Points | A Cru Classé that in recent years has clearly been striving to catch up with its 1855 neighbours. It remains far less polished than the other classified growths in the appellation, but that gives it a charm all of its own. There are plenty of firm tannins here, with cassis and bilberry fruits, along with clear austerity that is going to need a few more years to soften. A serious wine with a sense of identity, takes its time to reveal its hand and may move up when retasted in bottle. Tasted twice one week apar
Vinous 92 Points | The 2019 Cos Labory remains rather brawny, but it certainly has a ton of character. Black cherry, plum, gravel, licorice and scorched earth add to an impression of rusticity. Even so, there is plenty of depth and more than enough energy to support many years of fine drinking.
Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | A classic Saint-Estèphe nose of darker currants, damp earth, leafy herbs, and cedar emerges from the 2019 Château Cos Labory, a medium-bodied, balanced 2019 with good mid-palate concentration, ripe, building tannins, and a great finish. It deserves 3-5 years of bottle age and will keep for 15-20 years.
Broc Cellars La Boutanche Sonoma Valley Red 2024 750ml
Winemaker Description
THE STORY: We’re thrilled to share the latest release of Boutanche! This release is a new, fresh and lively blend. After several years of farming and making wine from our Fox Hill Vineyard, we've gained a deeper understanding of the site and its fruit, especially Sangiovese, which truly shines here. This new bottling is built around that very Sangiovese, which makes up 50% of the blend. All grapes were naturally fermented using whole clusters, with a portion undergoing carbonic maceration, then gently pressed and aged for 9 months in a mix of concrete and neutral barrique.
The result? A wine that’s fresh, vibrant, juicy, and surprisingly refined - perfect for any gathering. Like all wines under the Boutanche label, it's all about enjoyment, and you'll be glad it comes in a liter because it disappears quickly. Whether you chill it down or enjoy it at cellar temperature, this is a bright, delicious expression of California that’s made to be shared, any time of day.
FUN FACT: Badger means Broc in Scottish Gaelic. The badger is our winery mascot.
VARIETIES: 50% Sangiovese, 23% Carignan, 20% Valdiguie, 4% Trousseau, 3% Grenache Noir
LOCATION: Northern California
FARMING PRACTICES: Organically grown grapes
ALCOHOL: 13%
Famille Ferrando Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Colombis" 2023 750ml
Pre-Arrival - Expected date for delivery and/or pick up Thursday February 12, 2026
Expert Comments
Isabel Ferrando’s reputation for outstanding wines has grown every vintage since her first release in 2003. As a woman owned business and winemaker, Isabel has built a tremendous reputation producing highly acclaimed wines.
"Proprietress Isabel Ferrando has taken her Saint Prefert estate to France’s highest level, and she’s unquestionably making some of the most profound wines on earth today, including both reds and whites.” —Wine Critic - Jeb Dunnuck
"Hard work. Subtle tweaks. Responsible farming. An uncompromising dedication to quality. Isabel Ferrando keeps doing things the right way, and her wines are dramatic proof.” —James Molesworth,
Wine Spectator one thing that remains constant is the incredible quality that continues to emerge from this talented winemaker.” Jeb Dunuck.
THE WINE SPECTATOR 95 POINTS : One thing that remains constant is the incredible quality that continues to emerge from this talented winemaker.” Jeb Dunu Expressive, perfumed and ripe, with a glossy stream of bitter cherry and steeped plum anchored by bolts of iron. Warm spice, licorice, sanguine and grilled anise notes merge in, with a vivid flash of alpine herbs and singed alder smoke. A weighty, well-structured red that’s still unwinding yet is impressively approachable
JAMES SUCKLING 98 POINTS: Enormously deep and concentrated, but this is so subtle and defies easy description. The superfine tannins give this an incredibly fine texture, the richness building in the finish without adding anything to the impression of weight. From three old-vine grenache vineyards that have limestone, sand and galet soils. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
JEB DUNNUCK 97 POINTS: Black raspberries, ground pepper, white pepper, and sappy floral notes all make an appearance in the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape Colombis, another remarkable wine from this family. With medium to full-bodied richness, it's incredibly well-balanced, has ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. As with the estate’s other cuvées, it reminds me of their 2020. As usual, this cuvée is 100% Grenache that’s from a mix of three parcels (Rayas, Les Roues, and Colombis). It was not destemmed and was brought up in a mix of concrete, foudre, and clay jars.
VINOUS 96 POINTS: The 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Colombis is magnificent, bursting from the glass with prominent rose petal, crushed violets, strawberry compote, spicy licorice, dried herbs and minty shadings. Enveloped in velvety tannins, the perfumed 2023 is shaping up to be a wildly alluring Colombis, closing with a subtle phenolic kick on the focused finish. I can’t wait to taste it from bottle.
THE WINE ADVOCATE 94 POINTS: A pure Grenache Noir planted in the north part of the appellation and vinified with 30% whole bunches, the 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Colombis has turned out beautifully. Evoking aromas of rose, dark cherries, spices and dark berries, it’s medium- to full-bodied, seamless and satiny with a beautifully ethereal finish.
Domaine De La Romanee Conti Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru Biodynamic 2022 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022
Vinous 100 Points | The 2022 Romanée St. Vivant Grand Cru is a real head-turner. What a wine! As is so often the case, Romanée St. Vivant is not an obvious wine, rather it is a Burgundy of detail, of understatement, of total class. The aromatics alone are mesmerizing. Silky tannins wrap around a core of red-toned fruit, mint, white pepper, blood orange and exotic spice.
Decanter 97 Points | The Romanée-St-Vivant has developed more complexity since bottling, with a savoury, almost gamey edge to the lush berry fruit aromas and a hint of spice. The grip and freshness of the wine are impressive and seem to carry this wine to a new level of intensity. Although this wine had originally seemed ethereal and silky, the substantial nature of the structure is now evident, aided perhaps by the stricter selection. Bertrand de Villaine confirms that two parcels in this vineyard were pulled up due to issues with the rootstock, leaving them 23,699 bottles in 2022.
The Wine Spectator 97 Points | Shy, suggesting cherry, strawberry and spice flavors. Nonetheless, there is plenty of structure and length.
Valduero Blanco de Albillo Ribera del Duero 2025 750ml
Albillo is the soul of Ribera del Duero's white winemaking — a grape long prized by legendary producers like Vega Sicilia for the aromatic intensity it lends to their reds. At Bodegas Valduero, it takes center stage. The Valduero Blanco de Albillo Ribera del Duero 2025 is widely regarded as one of the finest 100% Albillo bottlings in the appellation: simultaneously rich and light, with a rare balance of fruit generosity and mineral precision.
Behind this wine is a unique family trio — Gregorio García Álvarez alongside siblings Yolanda and Carolina García Viadero — the first generation of winemakers to carry the Valduero name. Their commitment to the Albillo variety is a quiet act of preservation, honoring a grape that has shaped Ribera del Duero for centuries.
In the glass, the 2025 shows a very light straw color, a testament to the variety's natural resistance to oxidation. The nose is fresh and expressive, with pineapple, grapefruit, and the characteristic floral lift of Albillo. On the palate, it is beautifully balanced — neither heavy nor austere — with a clean, mineral-driven finish that lingers.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Pineapple, grapefruit, and delicate floral aromatics
- Palate: Fresh, balanced, and mineral-driven with bright citrus and stone fruit
- Finish: Clean, precise, and lingering
Wine Details
- 100% Albillo
- Ribera del Duero, Castilla y León, Spain
- Vintage: 2025
- 750ml
Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2020 750ml
Expert Review -Vintage 2020
Falstaff 92 Points | Bright, radiant ruby red. Elegant nose, reminiscent of cut flowers, raspberry and some paprika powder. Delicate, youthful on the palate, with a pleasant acidity. The finish is long and mineral. Clean mouthfeel.