Wine Over $100

Winemaker Description

70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot. Average age of the vines is 44 years. Replanting of these vines takes place in lots. 222 acres producing 22,000-30,000 cases.

Expert Reviews

Wine Spectator 97 Points | Rather tight, with an alluring whiff of cocoa that lures you in before disappearing into the core of steeped plum, roasted fig and blackberry coulis notes. Sandalwood, black tea and loam elements fill in on the long and expansive finish. This seems to be lying in wait for what could be a very long time in the cellar before unfurling fully. Best from 2018 through 2045. 15,833 cases made.

Wine Enthusiast 100 points | Almost black in color, this stunning wine is gorgeous, rich and dense. It s grand and powerful, with a strong sense of its own importance. The beautiful tannins and the fragrant black currant fruits are palpable. It s a great wine, with huge potential.

Wine Advocate 98 Points | The 2010 Lafite Rothschild, a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Merlot (a 3% difference from the barrel sample shown two years ago), achieved relatively high alcohol of 13.32%, according to administrator Charles Chevalier. The wine is very impressive, not as fleshy, flamboyant and massive as the 2009, but nevertheless, a big, rich, full-throttle Lafite-Rothschild meant to age a half century or more. Deep purple, with notes of white chocolate, mocha, cedar and charcoal as well as hints of vanillin and creme de cassis, the wine is full-bodied yet has that ethereal lightness that makes it a Lafite. Rich, with good acidity, precision and freshness, this is a slightly zestier version of the 2009 as well as more restrained and structured than that particular vintage. It will need at least 10-12 years of cellaring and keep for 50+ years.

98 James Suckling: This has a complex array of blackberries, black cherries, cocoa, dried herbs, slate, tobacco, olives and charred bark. Some dried roses and iodine, too. Medium-to full-bodied with firm yet refined tannins. Powerful, in an understated way. Long. 73% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc and 20% sangiovese.

98 Wine Spectator: Youthful, featuring intense fresh black currant, blackberry and black cherry fruit wrapped in accents of cedar, Mediterranean scrub and toasty oak, with a mineral streak underlining everything. Shows a solid spine of tannins that lend support, while the dark fruit returns on the finish. Delivers terrific balance, vigor and excruciating length, yet this needs time in the bottle. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc.

97 Decanter: Wonderful raspberry and black cherry fragrance on the nose, ripe and sweet and expressive, aromas bursting from the glass. Fleshy and sweet, sticky and full, this is giving a whole load of ripe, plush tannins and powerful fruit but underpinned by bright acidity that keeps things lifted and vibrant. A very serious wine, this is brooding and confident. It's showcasing lots of elements right now - ample, generous, hefty and stylish with flecks of red flowers, white pepper spice, ground coffee, herbs and chocolate.

The 2019 Solaia is fabulous. Deep and exquisitely layered, the 2019 is so expressive right out of the gate. Succulent dark cherry, plum, licorice, incense, pipe tobacco, chocolate, and grilled herbs all take shape. Here, too, the aromatics are alluring. Cabernet Franc is bumped up a bit in teh blend, and that works so well here. Solaia is often a bombastic, intense wine. The 2019 is incredibly refined and ubttoned up. The 2019 Solaia is the sort of wine I would like to spend a whole evening with. Aging was 18 months in 100% new French oak.

Winemaker Description

The 2019 vintage Solaia is deep ruby red in color. The nose offers complex notes of red fruit, apricots and red oranges with hints of rose petals. Distinct aromas of coffee beans, chocolate, licorice and white pepper complete the rich bouquet of this red wine. On the palate, the wine is enveloping and harmonious with excellent balance and structure. Vibrant tannins lead into an exceptionally long finish. 

Blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Franc

Expert Review

John Gilman 96 Points | This is my first taste of Domaine des Closiers top bottling, les Trezellières, which is made from a parcel of old vines and given fully two years aging in barrel, with somewhere between ten and twenty percent of the casks new. The 2019 les Trezellières is beautifully deep and refined aromatically, delivering scents of black cherries, cassis, Cuban cigar wrapper, a very complex base of soil, a touch of Cheval Blanc-like menthol, a gentle dollop of tree bark, cedar and a topnote of cigar smoke. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, elegant and rock solid at the core, with great focus and complex, superb soil undertow, fine-grained tannins and a very long, pure and classy finish.

The small percentage of new oak gives this wine more refinement than the les Coudraies bottling, but because it is no more than twenty percent new oak, the wood influence is far more subtle out of the blocks than in Clos Rougeard’s Le Bourg bottling, which is the closest comparison I can think of for this brilliant young Saumur Champigny. Give this beautiful wine plenty of time in the cellar to properly resolve its tannins and completely blossom! (2019). 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2006

Wine Spectator 96 Points | This has lovely flavors of apricot, dried tangerine, pineapple and papaya rushing along, supported by hazelnut, frangipane and coconut notes. Despite the depth, it's very, very pure, with filigreed acidity carrying the long, long finish. Drink now through 2037. 7,500 cases made. 

Wine Advocate 95 Points | Served from an ex-chateau bottle. The 2006 Chateau d Yquem has a slightly reticent bouquet at first that unfolds in the glass. There aromas are well-behaved at first, but then start having some fun with lovely scents of dried honey, dried quince, marzipan and beeswax. Delving further into the aromatics there is a hint of spice and white pepper. The palate is extremely well-balanced with a viscous opening. There is great harmony and composure here - certainly not as voluminous or ravishing as the 2009 - but a controlled and very focused Yquem with a slight saltiness coming through toward the finish. The edginess is absorbing and it should play out nicely with bottle age. This could be the dark horse between the 2001 and 2009. Drink now-2050. Tasted March 2014. 

Winemaker Description

The weather in 1953 was very favourable to vine growth and the crop was both plentiful and of excellent quality.

The growing season began with a warm, wet April, followed by a very warm, but dry month of May.  June and July were cool and rainy, whereas August and September were dry and slightly warmer than average.

Flowering went very well in May because it did not rain very much. Even though June and July were cool, which slowed down the growth cycle somewhat, the harvest was able to begin on the 21st of September. The grapes were excellent because August and September we very dry and hot.  Yields were high, but 1953 Cheval Blanc shows that quantity and quality are not incompatible.
Degree of alcohol: 12°.

This is a great vintage for Cheval Blanc. The wine is very well-balanced and still elicits enormous praise.

Winemaker Description

The 2019 Bernardot is dark and austere with wonderful nuances of ripe red fruit. Tannins are very silky and delicate in this 2019, showing a lot of finesse, typical from the Barbaresco area. It’s an elegant and very expressive Barbaresco. One of the favorite vineyards of winemaker Alessandro Ceretto.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate Monica Larner 95 Points writes | The organic Ceretto 2019 Barbaresco Bernadot shows a broader character and a more open-knit personality compared to the Asili. There is a lot of dark fruit, spice, truffle and earth to frame the medium-build of this elegant wine.  (2019).

Wine Spectator 94 Points | A bright red, delivering a core of cherry and raspberry fruit supported by earth, mineral and wild herbs. Intense, complex and dense, this is solidly built and persists with an aftertaste of dark fruit, mineral and spice. Best from 2025. (2019).

Winemaker Description 

The delicate and complex olfactory expression opens on aromas which remind of white flower, exotic fruits. There is a very beautiful complexity for a vintage where the end-of-season’s sun brought a lot to the aromas. Excellent complexity that translates into great and elegant richness. Nice attack, straight and bright, it takes place with elegance on fruity notes associated with a dense structure and a beautiful acidity which brings a great length in the end of the mouth. There are aromas of exotic fruits (litchi, mango).

Purchased by the Comte Lafond, an ancestor of the current owner, Baron Patrick de Ladoucette, Château du Nozet and its surrounding vineyards have a reputation for producing the finest Pouilly-Fumé. The vineyards are in Pouilly-Fumé Contrôlée, which includes Pouilly-sur-Loire, Saint-Andelain and Tracy-sur-Loire at the eastern end of the Loire Valley (including the vineyard of the Château du Nozet estate).

Both clay and limestone influence the delicate characteristics in Ladoucette Baron de L Pouilly-Fumé. This Grande Cuvée of Pouilly Fumé is produced exclusively in the best years and from the first pressing of the estate’s grapes. Winemaker Description. 

Domaine Michel Niellon | Chassagne-Montrachet | Burgundy, France | 2023

One of Chassagne-Montrachet's most trusted names, Michel Niellon has long produced village-level whites of uncommon precision and depth. The 2023 vintage brings a ripe yet fresh expression of the appellation — orchard fruit, white flowers, and hazelnut on the nose, followed by yellow apple, lemon curd, and flint on the palate. The texture is rounded and polished, balanced by underlying freshness and chalky lift. A wine of aromatic depth and quiet authority.

Tasting Notes

Pear and apple compote, citrus confit, rosemary oil. Punchy and delicious flavors with a clean, dry, and refreshing finish. A few years of cellaring will reward patience.

Critical Acclaim

Burghound 88 Points — Allen Meadows
"A ripe but agreeably fresh and layered nose reflects notes of pear and apple compote, citrus confit and a suggestion of rosemary oil. The punchy and delicious, if not especially dense, flavors also conclude in a clean, dry and refreshing finale. This could use better depth so a few years of cellaring should prove to be beneficial."

• Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Domaine Michel Niellon

Domaine Michel Niellon · Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru · Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière · Burgundy · 2023

Domaine Michel Niellon is one of Chassagne-Montrachet’s most revered addresses — a small, meticulous family estate that has farmed its premier cru parcels for generations with an unwavering commitment to terroir expression over winemaking intervention. Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière is among the domaine’s most prized holdings: a monopole planted with ancient vines, some more than a century old, set very high on the slope where the combination of altitude, old vine concentration, and Chassagne’s signature limestone soils produces Chardonnay of extraordinary tension and longevity. The 2023 earned 96 points from Charles Curtis MW at Decanter — a wine built for the cellar and the ages.

The 2023 opens with pronounced ripe fruit aromas of lemon peel, nectarine, and gooseberry, edged with saline minerality. The texture is impressively fresh for the vintage — lilting and silky — with marvellous concentration and great tension on the palate. A wine of rare substance and precision, it will benefit from a decade in the cellar and has the structure to drink beautifully for several decades after that.

“Pronounced ripe fruit aromas of lemon peel, nectarine and gooseberry, with an edge of saline minerality. The texture is impressively fresh for the vintage, with a lilting, silky texture, marvellous concentration and great tension on the palate. The grapes are from ancient vines, some more than a century old, planted very high on the slope. This will benefit from a decade in the cellar, but it has the substance to drink for several decades after that.”
— Charles Curtis MW, Decanter · 96 Points

• Producer: Domaine Michel Niellon, Chassagne-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru
• Climat: Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière (monopole)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vines: Ancient vines, some 100+ years old; high on the slope
• Style: Dry white — mineral, concentrated, exceptional tension
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, nectarine, gooseberry, saline minerality, silky texture, great concentration and tension
• Cellar: Drink 2033–2050+
• Pairings: Lobster, turbot, Dover sole, scallops, white truffle dishes, aged Comté

Decanter 96 · Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru — century-old vines, monopole climat, and a decade or more of cellaring ahead. One of Burgundy’s most compelling 2023s.

Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Meursault Les Corbins — Côte de Beaune 2023

Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur is one of Meursault’s most respected family estates, known for wines of precision, tension, and genuine terroir expression. Les Corbins is a southeast-facing lieu-dit located north of the village of Meursault on the road to Volnay, sitting just beneath the premier cru Les Plures — a position that speaks to the quality of the site. François Bitouzet farms a hectare and a half of Chardonnay here, planted between 1974 and 1987 in a particularly deep and rocky clay-limestone soil that imparts the wine’s signature intense minerality and acid-driven tension. Aged 16 months in 20% new barrels, this is a textbook Meursault of excellent weight and complexity — a village wine that drinks with the authority of a premier cru.

The nose is enchanting: intense minerality, subtle buttercream, spice, and a lifted touch of mint. On the palate, it is weighty and precise — the Bitouzet house style of acid-driven tension is fully on display, with the deep clay-limestone soils delivering concentration and structure alongside the classic Meursault richness. A wine of real distinction that will reward cellaring.

67 Wine — “Les Corbins sits just beneath the premier cru Les Plures, and it shows. Intense minerality, buttercream, spice and mint — with the acid-driven tension that defines the Bitouzet-Prieur house style. A village Meursault that drinks like a premier cru.”

• Producer: Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur, Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Meursault AOC
• Lieu-Dit: Les Corbins (SE-facing, north of Meursault village, below premier cru Les Plures)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vine Age: Planted 1974–1987
• Soil: Deep, rocky clay-limestone
• Aging: 16 months, 20% new oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Intense minerality, buttercream, spice, mint, excellent weight, acid-driven tension, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2025–2035+
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roast turbot, scallops, roast chicken with cream sauce, aged Comté

Southeast-facing, clay-limestone, vines from 1974 — Bitouzet-Prieur’s Les Corbins is the village Meursault that earns its place among the greats.

Bérêche et Fils has been producing Champagne since the mid-19th century, and the estate’s reputation as one of the finest in the entire region has only grown under the stewardship of brothers Raphaël and Vincent Bérêche. Their approach is uncompromising: single-vineyard plots, minimal dosage, no malolactic fermentation, and a deep respect for terroir that allows each site to speak with clarity and precision. The result is a house style that is unmistakably racy, mineral, and built for the long haul.

This Cramant Grand Cru is a singular expression of one of Champagne’s most celebrated Chardonnay terroirs — a finely defined, powdery, and ethereally fresh wine resting upon an incredible bedrock of chalk. The nose is ample and delicate, evoking hawthorn against a backdrop of slightly damp chalk. The palate is unctuous and pure, revealing notes of iodine and extraordinary mineral tension. The finish — soft, chalky, and seemingly endless — gives way to the sheer emotion that only a great Cramant can evoke. A magnificent vintage with excellent aging potential.

Varietal: Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs)
Vintage: 2020
Appellation: Cramant Grand Cru, Champagne, France
Style: Extra Brut / Zero Dosage
Farming: Biodynamic
Bottle Size: 750ml

A rare and highly age-worthy expression of Nebbiolo from the heart of Barbaresco, the Quindicianni 2010 represents the pinnacle of patience and traditional winemaking at Cascina Baricchi. A true library release, this wine is aged for extended periods before release, resulting in extraordinary complexity, depth, and refinement.

Expert Ratings

97 James Suckling: Restrained and profound wine which shines on the nose for the Parma violets and potpourri, earth and minerals, almost stony, together with licorice, dried cherries and strawberries, rhubarb whiffs and citrus freshness. It is exquisitely integrated on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, juicy and firm with ripe, velvety tannins and sleek, elegant depth, again with citrus flavors. Focused, polished and long.

Winemaker Notes

Experience the Richness of Masi Costasera Amarone

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | In the bottle with the black label, the Masi 2019 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Costasera is generous in terms of ripeness, concentration and extract. This blend of 70% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 10% Oseleta and 5% Molinara shows an inky dark appearance with baked fruit and blackberry preserves. With a 15.5% alcohol content, the wine definitely leaves its mark on all the senses. A hint of mild bitterness comes with the oak tannins. Production is 50,000 bottles 

James Suckling 94 Points | A complex and deep wine. Highlights of dark chocolate and black pepper over black cherries. Refined and condensed tannins with exuberant, racy acidity and full body. Powerful, this has cellaring potential. Drinkable now but best from 2029.

Memo Summary Notes

Primary Varietals - Corvina, Rondinella, Oseleta, Molinara

This Riserva represents Masi's excellence, a benchmark for Amarone. It's a special version of the celebrated Costasera, characterized by extended appassimento (drying) and the use of the unusual Oseleta grape for superior structure.

Introducing Masi Costasera Amarone

Masi Costasera Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Riserva 2019 is a stunning representation of Italian craftsmanship. This exceptional red wine, made from partially dried grapes, offers a rich and full-bodied taste that's perfect for special occasions. The wine features deep notes of dark fruit, spices, and a hint of chocolate, which together create a complex and layered flavor profile. So, whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply savoring a quiet evening, this wine promises an unforgettable experience.

The Unique Aging Process

The aging process of Masi Costasera Amarone plays a vital role in enhancing its flavor. The wine matures in oak barrels for a minimum of 24 months, allowing it to develop its character and complexity. This careful selection of aging materials influences its aroma and taste, resulting in a smooth yet intense finish. Therefore, every sip reflects the rich history and tradition of Valpolicella winemaking, making it a true gem for wine enthusiasts.

Perfect Pairings for Masi Costasera

Masi Costasera Amarone pairs beautifully with hearty dishes. It complements red meats, game, and aged cheeses exceptionally well. Because of its rich flavor profile, it can also stand alone as a perfect after-dinner wine, enhancing your dining experience. So, gather your friends or family, open a bottle, and indulge in the luxurious taste of Masi Costasera Amarone while enjoying a flavorful meal together.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | Based on 70% Clairette and 30% Roussanne and barrel fermented in demi-muid and foudre, the 2024 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc is gorgeous, pure, and layered. It offers honeyed white peach, white flowers, subtle croissant, and spice aromatics. Medium to full-bodied and incredibly layered, it has remarkable acidity and a great finish that shows sensational purity and length.

The Wine Advocate 94 Points | Ethereal, fresh and perfumed, the 2024 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc opens with aromas of white fruits, herbs, spices and confit citrus. Medium- to full-bodied, pure and seamless, it is layered and textured, leading to a long, penetrating finish of great finesse. All precision and delicacy, this blend of 70% Clairette and 30% Roussanne is a stunning wine. It matured for six months in a combination of barrels, foudres and amphorae.

Memo Summary Notes 

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. 

96 Points by Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Vincent Cuillier's 2022 Brut Nature Blanc de Pinot Noir Clos Forestier is magnificent. Bright, punchy and explosive, the 2022 offers a compelling mix of vibrant fruit and saline, mineral-drenched energy. This feels so alive, so full of life. Sandy soils confer tons of aromatic presence to lift a core of Pinot fruit. Compelling. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: March 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

~ Antonio Galloni, VINOUS – November 2025

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

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

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

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

About the Wine

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

Tasting & Pairings

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

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

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

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

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

Winemaker Notes

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

About Roagna

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

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

Tasting & Pairings

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

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

Expert Reviews

Decanter Magazine by Simon Field MW writes 93 Points |  Made up, half and half, of base wine from the sunny 2018 harvest, and reserve wine from Rodolphe’s Perpetual Reserve which goes back to 1988, this is one of the most consistently excellent NV wines on the market. Its current iteration is especially impressive, floral, chalky, upstanding, and very complex; the palate sharing notes of dried apricot, plum and lemon pith with more developed intimations of sour honey and patisserie. An exemplary wine with real purity and precision on the finish. 

The Wine Spectator by Alison Napjus writes 91 Points | Sleek and mouthwatering, with a fine, satiny mousse and a fresh panoply of crunchy pear, grapefruit sorbet, pickled ginger and spring blossom notes. Bright and finely knit, with rich hints of toast and mineral echoing on the finish. Disgorged November 2019. Drink now through 2025.

Winemaker Descriptions

Discover the elegance and purity of Pierre Peters Cuvée de Réserve Blanc de Blancs, a non-vintage Champagne crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. This refined Champagne offers delicate aromas of citrus, white flowers, and brioche, with a crisp acidity and a long, elegant finish.

Memo Summary Notes

Produced by Rodolphe Péters, this wine is celebrated for its precision, chalky minerality, and the unique use of a "perpetual reserve" system that dates back to 1988.

Its high acidity and saline finish make it a perfect match for raw oysters, sushi, or creamy risotto.

Critical Acclaim

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

Tasting Notes

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

About the Wine

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

Food Pairing

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

Product Details

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

Winemaker Description 

Siituated just below premier cru Aux Argillas on the slope in northern Nuits-Saint-Georges, Les Bousselots provides an impressive showcase for the vigorous minerality typical of this village. Drag farms a half-hectare parcel of Bousselots that abuts the well-regarded premier cru Les Chaignots to its immediate north, and this bottling possesses a murmuring stony intensity which contrasts the often-floral character of its immediate neighbors. Notes of bright red fruits, warm leather, and dark dust orbit a core of iron-like mineral enormity, and its sinewy, densely concentrated palate promises plenty of positive evolution.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

James Suckling writes 93 Points | Hardcore Nuits-Saint-Georges! This has a massive tannin structure, but also good concentration on the full-bodied palate. This has been made for the long term, but the spicy complexity is already exciting, a touch of charcoal character at the long, roasted-meat finish. Best after 2026.

A beautifully preserved library release showcasing the age-worthy brilliance of Muscadet. Sourced from vines planted on a distinctive granite vein in Vallet, the 2007 L d’Or marries freshness with graceful maturity. Aromas of citrus zest, white peach, crushed oyster shell, and wet stone unfold alongside subtle notes of almond and herbal lift. The palate is vibrant and refined, with precise acidity, deep minerality, and a long, saline finish that speaks clearly of its terroir. Elegant, complex, and remarkably alive—an outstanding example of mature Muscadet direct from the domaine’s cellar.

A rare, beautifully matured Muscadet from one of the Loire Valley’s benchmark estates. Sourced from old vines rooted in a deep vein of granite, L d’Or shows how extraordinary Muscadet can become with long aging. The 2006 vintage offers layered aromas of lemon peel, crushed stone, sea spray, and gently evolving notes of hazelnut and honey. On the palate, it’s taut yet silky, with remarkable freshness, mineral intensity, and a long, saline finish. A stunning example of terroir-driven Muscadet at peak maturity, released directly from the domaine’s cellar. Perfect for collectors, seafood pairings, or anyone seeking a true Muscadet revelation.

A rare, perfectly aged Muscadet from one of the Loire’s benchmark domaines. “L d’Or” is sourced from old-vine Melon de Bourgogne planted on mica-schist soils, producing a wine of remarkable depth and longevity.

The 2005 shows extraordinary maturity: layers of salted lemon, preserved citrus, crushed stone, dried herbs, and a subtle smoky minerality. On the palate, it’s beautifully evolved yet still vibrant, with the hallmark tension and salinity that define great Muscadet. Long, savory, and deeply textural, this is a stunning library release that proves just how well Muscadet can age.

A rare treat direct from the winery’s cellar — ideal for collectors and lovers of nuanced, maritime whites. Perfect with oysters, scallops, sushi, or aged cheeses.

A masterwork of Côte des Blancs terroir, the 2016 Special Club Grands Terroirs de Chardonnay represents Pierre Gimonnet's most prestigious cuvée—a blanc de blancs of extraordinary depth and complexity from one of Champagne's most revered grower estates.

Critical Acclaim

• 96 Points - James Suckling: "Fantastic aromatic complexity...creamy, sleek and layered. Very soft and fine bubbles."
• 95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck: "Rounded and attractive...elegant mousse, soft texture of citrus oil, and clean, chalky finish."
• 93 Points - Wine Advocate: "Full-bodied and concentrated...admirably consistent and age-worthy cuvée."
• 93 Points - Wine Spectator: "Compact and well-integrated...racy acidity and intensity. Drink now through 2036."
• 92 Points - Vinous: "Bright and focused, with terrific depth...an absolute delight."

Vineyard & Winemaking

• 100% Chardonnay from Grand Cru and Premier Cru parcels
• 58% Cramant Grand Cru (Buissons, Bateau, Gros Mont, Champ du Prévôt)
• 27% Chouilly Grand Cru (Mont Aigu)
• 15% Cuis Premier Cru (Roualles, Croix-Blanche)
• Includes fruit from vines planted in 1911 and 1913, worked with horses
• Pure chalk terroir expressing classic Côte des Blancs minerality
• Malolactic fermentation completed
• Fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve purity
• Aged 60+ months on the lees
• Disgorged 2023-2024 | Dosage: 4-5g/L (Extra Brut)

Tasting Profile

Shimmering golden hue with persistent, fine bubbles. The nose reveals extraordinary aromatic complexity: walnut, quince, dried apricot, white cocoa, fresh-baked croissant, citrus zest, white flowers, and hazelnut. On the palate, it's creamy yet vibrant—layers of honeyed green apple, lemon oil, juicy peach and pear, blanched almond, and tangerine unfold with elegant mousse and soft texture. The finish is long, caressing, and mineral-driven with racy acidity and chalky precision. This is a Champagne of remarkable balance: approachable now yet built for extended aging through 2036 and beyond.

Perfect Pairings

Serve chilled (45-50°F) with grilled scallops, lobster risotto, Dover sole meunière, roasted chicken with herbs, creamy aged cheeses (Comté, aged Gruyère), or simply on its own as an aperitif. This is Champagne for connoisseurs—a wine that rewards contemplation and elevates any celebration.

Special Club is an elite designation reserved for Champagne's finest grower-producers, representing the pinnacle of their craft. Only 250 cases imported to the US.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 96 Points | The density and balance are so attractive here, with sliced apples, white pineapple and crushed stones. Hints of dried flowers, too, such as white roses and lilacs, as well as almonds. Medium-bodied with focus and subtle strength. Seemingly endless, with a bitter-lemon edge and nice reduction in the aftertaste of gun metal. Drink and enjoy.

Decanter 94 Points | Drouhin's Clos des Mouches 2023 exemplifies the vintage's potential for delicious whites. The wine has lush, forward aromas of Mirabelle plums and quince with hints of marzipan, butter and a suggestion of stylishly smoky reduction. The texture is supple and dense, but the richness is kept in balance and the extract carries the wine to a lingering finish. Parts of the 7ha vineyard have been replanted; the old vines that produce this bottling have delivered a wine of great character.

The Wine Advocate 93-94 Points | The 2023 Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Mouches Blanc (Domaine) is another strong performance, delivering aromas of sweet pear, peach and mandarin mingled with buttered toast and mint. Full-bodied, rich and ample, it's layered and unctuous, with a seamless, satiny, textural profile and a long, lusty finish.

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Stylish and graceful, this white evokes lemon, apple, white flower and honey aromas and flavors. Almost seamless in its texture and balance, with finely meshed acidity providing lift and freshness. Excellent length.

Winemaker Notes

An outstanding wine. Pale yellow color. Complex floral nose of white lilac and white rose. Once open, fruity aromas come to the fore, evolving towards grilled hazelnut and almond. When the wine is more mature, the nose is surprisingly strong and fifteen minutes of aeration produce wonderful notes of white truffle, citron (cedrat), honey and nutmeg, elegantly meshed together. Very lively on the palate. Its rich texture is in evidence, but also its structure and minerality. It is round, but never heavy. Harmonious fullness in the aftertaste. This wine allies remarkably the complexity and elegance of a Bâtard-Montrachet with the power of a Corton-Charlemagne.

Joseph Drouhin Chassagne-Montrachet 2023

Experience the elegance of Burgundy with Joseph Drouhin Chassagne-Montrachet 2023, a prestigious white wine from one of France's most celebrated appellations. Crafted by the renowned Joseph Drouhin estate, founded in 1880, this exceptional Chardonnay showcases the unique terroir of Chassagne-Montrachet through meticulous winemaking and sustainable viticulture practices.

Tasting Profile

This generous and elegant wine displays a light golden color with remarkable aromatic complexity. The nose reveals intense aromas of oyster shells, lavender flowers, sandalwood, brioche, and candied lemon, evolving toward nuances of grilled hazelnut and spice as it matures. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture, the palate is straightforward yet refined, offering flavors of ripe pear, citrus zest, stone fruits, and heather flowers. Vibrant acidity balances the wine's richness, leading to a long, flavorful finish where floral and gingerbread notes dominate.

Expert Recognition

James Suckling - 94 Points
"An intense village wine with aromas and flavors of oyster shells, lavender flowers and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Heather flowers come through. Real Chassagne-Montrachet."

The Wine Advocate - 90 Points
"An intense village wine with aromas and flavors of oyster shells, lavender flowers and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Heather flowers come through. Real Chassagne-Montrachet."

Perfect Pairings

• Grilled fish and lobster with butter
• Seafood and shellfish
• Roasted poultry dishes
• Creamy risottos and pasta
• Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly chilled at 50-55°F to enhance the wine's refreshing qualities and aromatic complexity. This versatile Chassagne-Montrachet is perfect for special celebrations or intimate dinners, and can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development. Each 750ml bottle represents the storied heritage and dedication to excellence that defines Joseph Drouhin.

Warehouse stored item - please allow three to five business days to fulfill.

Situated at the entry to Burgundy’s Elysian Fields, Gevrey-Chambertin is a historic village where Pinot Noir reaches its pinnacle. The village’s vineyards, with their prime east to southeast exposures, thrive on a blend of brown limestone soils and clayey marls rich in fossil deposits. This unique terroir imparts elegance, delicacy, body, and firmness to the wine. From the first sip, this wine indulges the senses with a vibrant blend of fresh strawberries and violets, which will transition to complex notes of licorice and leather as the wine matures. It is a true representation of the best that Burgundy has to offer.

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Vinous 98 Points | Is it possible to create a wine with structure but without weight? The 2021 Cabernet Franc Gran Enemigo Gualtallary offers a remarkable answer to that apparent paradox, finding the solution in a balanced combination of terroir and careful cellar work. It's almost utopian—a mountain wine with the structure and character of high-altitude vineyards, yet with the agility and freshness of an oceanic red. Purple in hue, it opens with blackberry and plum, layered with mountain herbs, a hint of sour cherry, cassis and floral tones of violet and lavender. Dry and juicy, with a slightly compact feel, the wine glides across the palate with weightless grace, supported by fine, chalky tannins. This wine is a triumph.

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This alluring wine opens with notes of sarsaparilla, Bing cherries, and ripe wild strawberries. Do not let the Russian River Valley Pinot Noir’s seductive introduction fool you, it is a complex wine. Layered notes of anise and dried sage encourage the drinker to explore the depth of flavors in the glass. The palate beautifully combines citrus and tea notes with velvety tannins and a lengthy finish. – Jessica Gilmore, Associate Winemaker

Winemaker's Notes: Masseto 2017 manages to encapsulate all the ripeness and concentration of a particularly sunny and dry vintage. The color is almost black, the nose reveals a rich and ripe expression of concentrated black fruit, with hints of spices and liquorice. On the palate the wine manages to combine great intensity and ripeness of fruit with a remarkable sense of balance and freshness. The tannins are densely knit, the texture velvety, the finish shows lingering fruitiness and a vibrant acidity giving a final touch of freshness. Although it comes from one of the warmest vintages, 2017 can be considered a very typical Masseto in its unmistakeable combination of richness and elegance.

James Suckling - 98 Points: The clarity of the ripe blackcurrants, black cherries and flowers in the nose is entrancing. Lavender, too. It’s full-bodied with firm, silky tannins that run long and straight through the wine, providing brightness and focus. Goes on for minutes. Strength with finesse Drink after 2024, but already wonderful to taste.

Decanter Magazine - 97 Points: This is luscious, think Le Pin rather than Petrus if you are comparing to a Pomerol. The layers of spice are clear and distinct, from pepper to saffron to cloves, extremely rich but with an upward swing of acidity that keeps it gripped on to its base, and delivers the power and seduction of Masseto. An excellent vintage taking the extreme drought of the summer in its stride, proof of the exceptional location of this property. There are plenty of finely tuned tannins, but you have to wait until you are halfway through the palate before they start to build in intensity, so well brushed and supple they are at first. One to savour, for sure. 100% new oak. 24 months in barrel then another 12 months in bottle before being released from the estate.

The Wine Advocate - 97 Points: The Masseto 2017 Masseto puts on another exhilarating, knock-out performance for the third year in a row. The Masseto vineyard is a triangular-shaped plot tucked in at the back of the same property that houses the Ornellaia vineyards and winery. This special site is located at the base of the mountains that rise gently from the Tyrrhenian Sea, with the picturesque silhouette of the Castiglioncello castle at the top. The vines are planted at an altitude of 80 to 100 meters above sea level in blue clay soils that are unique to Bolgheri. That ideal position opens the vineyards to soft breezes, proximity to the sea, long daylight hours and cool diurnal shifts from the protective wall of low mountains at the back. It's a little garden of Merlot Eden. The center of the vineyard now is home to the new Masseto winery and an adjacent tasting room built into a pre-existing farmhouse. This wine was made in the old winery (the existing Ornellaia winery). Fermentation kicks off in a combination of steel and oak tanks before the wine is racked over to barrique, where it rests for two years. The wine then goes into bottle for 12 months before its release. Like most vintages of Masseto tasted this early in the game, the oak is omnipresent, and it grounds the wine in terms of texture and structure. It is powerful, but that's always the case with Masseto (this vintage records a 15.5% alcohol content). I tasted this wine next to the decidedly more playful Massetino, and the Masseto moves over the palate with substantial fruit weight and concentration gained over the course of this hot and dry growing season (which produced smaller, richer and more compact berries). Perhaps, what this vintage lacks is that profound varietal character that we saw in recent vintages like 2016 and 2015. If concerned that the hot vintage would draw out too many ripe fruit tones, the oak serves to soften some of the more volatile components of the fruit. Those distinctive notes of macchia mediterranea (wild bush) that I always associate with Masseto are less present in this vintage. You feel the oak tannins on the finish with toast and vanilla that will certainly shed as the wine ages. In fact, I went back to taste the wine 12 hours later, and they had already softened considerably. 

Jeb Dunnuck - 96 Points: The 2017 Masseto is another stunning wine from this benchmark estate, and along with Petrus, they fashion one of the greatest expressions of Merlot out there. The 2017 reveals a deep ruby/purple hue as well as a captivating bouquet of ripe black cherries, currants, dried herbs, leather, spicy oak, and tobacco, with even a touch of forest floor coming through with time in the glass. Concentrated, medium to full-bodied, and structured on the palate, it has loads of minerality, a seamless texture, ripe (yet certainly present) tannins, and a great finish. While it shows the sunny style of the vintage aromatically, it's tight and backward on the palate and in need of 4-5 years of bottle age. It's going to keep for 30-40 years.

Wine Spectator - 95 Points: There's a meaty character to this intense, polished red, adding a seriousness to the dark plum, blackberry, iron, vanilla and chocolate flavors. A beam of bright acidity keeps this focused and drives the fruit- and spice-filled finish. Merlot. Best from 2022 through 2042. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2014 

Vinous 98 Points | Bollinger’s 2014 La Grande Année is a great way to start the evening as guests mill around Wheeler Farms. It is early evening in Napa, but there is still plenty of action in the winery, where various lots are being pressed under the watchful eye of winemaker Nigel Kinsman. There are some moments where I would very much like to be a civilian, a regular person enjoying the night, but I am more concerned with our guests having a great night, so I quickly go back to check on our wines. The Bollinger 2014 is everything I expected; bright, focused and full of all the energy this late-ripening vintage conferred to the best wines. 

Producer Description 

La Grande Année: The Great Year. This Champagne is the embodiment of everything that makes Bollinger the producer that stands apart in Champagne. La Grande Année symbolizes the word “hand-crafted” so strongly that an overused word suddenly becomes the appropriate definition. 

La Grande Année is only produced in the most outstanding of vintages, where ripeness and acidity reach a perfect balance and aging potential is excellent.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Antonio Galloni  of Vinous writes 100 Points |  2021 Solaia is another wine that captures all of the potential I sensed when I tasted it some months ago. More than anything else the 2021 is a fine example of the style Antinori favors these days an approach that favors finesse more than opulence. Dark plum mocha licorice chocolate spice lavender and menthol build effortlessly in the glass. Oak and tannin are impeccably balanced. The 2021 spent 18 months in wood three months in once-used barrels during the malolactic fermentation and then 15 months in 100% new barrels for the rest of its aging.

The Wine Spectator 98 Points | A deep, dense red, drenched with blackberry, pomegranate, plum and sweet spice flavors. Iron, tobacco and wild herb elements peek through as this plays out on the finish under a strong grip of tannins. Shows terrific balance and length now, yet this should only improve after a few more years in the bottle. Superb. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2027 through 2047.

Decanter 97 Points | For me [2021 is] one of the best vintages ever,’ says Renzo Cotarella, Antinori's CEO and head winemaker, of the widely lauded vintage in Tuscany, explaining to me that it shares characteristics with 1997 and 2007, with a cool, frosty start slowing down vegetative growth and helping to extend the growing season, aided by milder temperatures later in the summer which enabled the grapes to build concentration while preserving freshness. Recent vintages of Solaia have benefitted from an increased use of Cabernet Franc, which stands at 9% in 2021. Due to be launched this autumn, Solaia 2021 is still a baby but its potential is immediately apparent. Inky and concentrated, with a dark chocolate barrique signature on the nose, it combines salinity with bountiful and sapid fruits, offering ripe black and red cherries, and dark hedgerow berries alongside herbal freshness, and finely textured tannins. Ferrous, meaty and earthy undertones emerge after some time in the glass, providing a counterpoint to the inherent sweetness of the fruit. Muscular yet wonderfully poised, this will only reveal all its complexities after significant ageing.

The Wine Advocate 97 Points | All said and done, the Marchesi Antinori 2021 Solaia is a monument to perfect winemaking. This coiffed supermodel does not show a single hair follicle out of place. However, it doesn't quite have the same sex appeal of the Tignanello. In my conversations with Estate Manager Renzo Cotarella during this tasting, it was expressed this way: "Tignanello is unexpected. Solaia is expected." Whereas Tignanello is a wine of vertical lift and energy, Solaia is a wine of lasting power. The wine offers generous depth and layering with soft tannins and some of the spicy pink peppercorn you get from the 9% Cabernet Franc (added to 77% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Sangiovese). The finish is extremely velvety and soft, but I notice that the flavors seem to become sweeter and riper the longer this wine stays in the glass. This newest release will hit the market in September. 

James Suckling 97 Points | This is a beautifully curated Solaia with blackcurrants and raspberries plus lavender and violet undertones. Graphite highlights it all. Just some new wood coming through. It’s full-bodied with fine velvety tannins that run the length of the wine, caressing the palate. Give this three or four years to come around.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Jeb Dunnuck writes 97-100 Points |  I was blown away by the 2022 Château Léoville Poyferré, which is a classic blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 4% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Harvest spanned from the 8th to the 28th of September, the vinification is in tronconique tanks (parcel by parcel), and the élevage will span 18-20 months in 80% new barrels. This inky hued beauty offers that rare mix of power and elegance and offers ample cassis and assorted blue fruits, full-bodied richness, an opulent, concentrated, yet flawlessly balanced mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and plenty of classic Saint-Julien violets, espresso roast, and crushed stone-like minerality. Despite its incredible concentration and depth, it stays beautifully balanced. In a region that seems to only talk about finesse and elegance, it's a relief to still have producers such as this producing powerful, intense, singular wines. Hats off to the Cuvelier family and their team.

James Suckling 96-97 Points | A very solid LP with black berry, blackcurrant, crushed stone and lavender character. Full and really well structured with a linear length to it. Focused and so polished. Thoughtful. 58% cabernet sauvignon, 34% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot.

Neal Martin of Vinous 95-97 Points | The 2022 Léoville Poyferré was picked 8 to 28 September at 33.4hL/ha and matured in 80% new oak. It has a high IPT of 93 and 14.4% alcohol (half a degree less than the 2018). It is quintessentially LP on the nose, with those extravagant and sensual black and blueberry fruit, intermingling with crushed violet and iris. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, very harmonious and focused, perhaps more linear than expected with a velvety-smooth finish. This is a very classy, sophisticated Saint-Julien that may well rest at the top of my banded score once in bottle.

One of Italy's most iconic wines and a cornerstone of the Super Tuscan movement, Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2022 is a masterpiece of Cabernet Sauvignon-led blending from the Bolgheri coast of Tuscany. Crafted by Tenuta dell'Ornellaia under the direction of proprietor Lamberto Frescobaldi, the 2022 vintage has earned near-universal 96–97 point acclaim, celebrated for its Mediterranean elegance, concentrated fruit, and beautifully integrated structure. A wine of genuine collector status.

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia

Founded in 1981 by Lodovico Antinori on the Bolgheri coast of Tuscany, Ornellaia is one of Italy's most celebrated estates — a pioneer of the Super Tuscan movement and a benchmark for Bordeaux-style blending in Italy. Drawing from multiple parcels including Bellaria, Pero, Fosso, Vigna Vecchia, and Stallina, the estate produces some 80 individual wines before final blending, ensuring extraordinary complexity and precision. The 2022 Ornellaia is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Petit Verdot — with Petit Verdot playing an elevated role, adding structure, length, and dark-leaning complexity to this exceptional vintage.

Critical Acclaim — 2022 Vintage

97 Points — Wine Advocate: "The 2022 vintage will be remembered for its full-bodied appeal, concentrated fruit and generous oak renderings. The wine's abundant fruit weight cedes to elegantly integrated tannins. This vintage will appeal to die-hard Ornellaia enthusiasts."

97 Points — James Suckling: "Stunning elegance on the nose, with vibrant dried eucalyptus leaves, flowers, restrained brambleberries and hints of black cherries, milk chocolate, cloves and graphite. Savory and well packed, with integrated, brilliant freshness and a ripe, fruity finish. Try from 2026."

96 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "A fantastic nose of blackberries, polished cedar, lavender, sweet herbs, and dark cocoa. Full-bodied with a rich structure, warming concentration but a very balanced feel. The tannins are ripe and frame the underlying mineral notes very nicely."

96 Points — Vinous: "A terrific wine for the year. Dark red-toned fruit, mocha, new leather, licorice and spice all take shape in a mid-weight, pliant Ornellaia that is quite alluring. The 2022 Ornellaia is clearly among the most successful wines of the vintage."

95 Points — Decanter: "Bold, dark fruited and spicy, swirling with peppery and herbal nuances and some lovely fresh acidity which carries through to a bright finish. A more compact and dense style compared to the previous year."

Tasting Profile

Deep, bright purple-red. The nose is complex and inviting — blackberry, dark cherry, dried eucalyptus, lavender, cedar, dark cocoa, and sweet spice. On the palate it's full-bodied with rich, concentrated fruit, warming depth, and ripe tannins of exceptional quality. Savory minerality and brilliant freshness carry through to a long, elegant finish with notes of blond tobacco and graphite. Mediterranean in spirit, Bordeaux in structure.

Details

2022 | 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot | Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany, Italy | DOC Bolgheri Superiore | 750ml | 18 months in oak (up to 70% new)

Cellaring & Serving

Best from 2026 through 2040+. Decant 1–2 hours. Serve at 61–64°F with Florentine steak, lamb, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino, or truffle-based dishes. A wine that rewards patience and rewards the table equally.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

Abadía Retuerta — Pago Negralada Single Vineyard Tempranillo 2018

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

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

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

Critical Acclaim

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

Vineyard & Vinification

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

Tasting Notes

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

Food Pairings

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