$10 - $25 Wine

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Enthusiast by Tonya Pitts 91 Points | This wine is bright and lively, with aromas of dark berries, malted chocolate, crushed florals and notes of toasted vanilla. Structured with gripping tannins the palate opens with flavors of cranberry-strawberry, black raspberry and dried bay leaf, which evolve into red plum and citrus zest.

Winemaker Description 

The 2022 Matchbook Cabernet Sauvignon is a refined yet approachable expression of the Dunnigan Hills AVA, crafted to showcase ripe, sun-soaked fruit and the region’s signature balance.

Deep dark garnet in the glass, it opens with inviting aromas of plum and black cherry layered with subtle notes of mocha, chocolate and mild cigar box. The palate is soft, supple and immediately welcoming, offering rich flavors of blackberry and boysenberry supported by dusty tannins and well-integrated oak that adds both structure and length.

Hints of anise and warm spice elevate the finish, giving the wine lift and nuance.

Awarded 91 points by Wine Enthusiast, this Cabernet maintains varietal integrity while delivering broad appeal—an easy-drinking, food-friendly red that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty pastas or aged cheeses.

Memo Summary Notes

Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Petit  Sirah

The 2022 Matchbook "Red Gravel" Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout value from the Dunnigan Hills AVA in Yolo County, California. Named after the distinct iron-rich, gravelly soils of the estate, this wine is designed to compete with much pricier Napa Cabs by offering a similar "bold and plush" profile at a fraction of the cost.

Winemaker Description 

Deep and attractive red color with a purple rim. Mountain wine with a powerful terroir expression. Intense red fruit, black currants, lavender, thyme, rosemary and scrubland notes. In the palate shows long, very fresh, wide and savory, with a gentle structure and attractive texture. 

Benziger Family Winery | Chardonnay | 2023

A bright, food-friendly Chardonnay sourced primarily from Monterey County — California's premier cool-climate home for Burgundian whites. The Pacific Ocean's maritime fog rolls in to slow ripening, preserving crisp acidity while allowing flavors to fully develop over the long growing season. Limestone-rich Lockwood shale adds a layer of complex minerality that lifts the wine beyond its price point. In the cellar, cold fermentation in neutral French oak followed by six months of sur lie aging in new French oak builds texture and depth, while 75% malolactic fermentation softens the mid-palate without sacrificing freshness. The result: a clean, balanced Chardonnay with a long finish that overdelivers at the table.

• Appellation: Monterey County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml | Screwcap
• Cellaring: Drink now through 2027
• Oak: Cold fermented in neutral French oak; sur lie aged 6 months in new French oak
• MLF: 75%

Tasting Notes

Dry and crisp with medium body and a long finish. Notes of lemon zest, green apple, ripe pear, and apricot, with a subtle mineral thread and a hint of toasted oak on the close.

Winemaker's Notes — 2023 Vintage

Moderate conditions during the growing and ripening seasons produced healthy yields and superb quality. Mild temperatures and extended hang time allowed acidity to remain in balance with full flavor development.

Winemaker Description 

Johann Stadlmann is chairman of the regional wine committee and was named "Falstaff Winemaker of the Year" in 1994.

In the nose, the aromas of this special grape variety immediately attract attention: ripe pear (including skin!), peach and apple supplemented with cinnamon and matcha. Already at the first sip, the beautiful balance between the pleasant acidity and the rounder mouthfeel is striking, with the additional aroma of bitter orange. A surprising glass of wine that lingers for a long time, in aftertaste and memory! Wine-food: seared lobster with bisque-based gravy.

Mio Sparkling Sake — Japan

Mio is Japan’s most celebrated sparkling sake — a playful, elegant alternative to Champagne or Prosecco that has captivated sake lovers and wine drinkers alike. Produced by Takara Shuzo, one of Japan’s most storied breweries, Mio (meaning “beautiful cherry blossom”) is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Delicate fine bubbles carry aromas of honeydew melon, lemongrass, and ripe peach to the nose. On the palate, it’s refreshingly sweet with a light, airy texture and a clean, crisp finish — not cloying, just perfectly balanced. The low alcohol and gentle sweetness make it incredibly versatile at the table.

• Brewery: Takara Shuzo, Japan
• Style: Sparkling Sake
• Size: 300ml
• ABV: 5%
• Tasting Notes: Honeydew melon, lemongrass, ripe peach, fine bubbles, clean finish
• Best Served: Well chilled — as an aperitif, with dessert, or as a Champagne alternative
• Best Paired With: Spicy rolls, fruit-based sushi, light appetizers, fresh fruit desserts

The 300ml bottle is perfect for solo celebrations or as a unique gift — pop it open whenever the moment calls for something a little special.

Winemaker Description 

Aroa is a small winery in the Deierri Valley, in Navarra, which has recently been part of the Vintae group. They are specialists in producing organic wines of the highest quality. 

Proof of this is its Aroa Jauna, a Crianza red that perfectly blends four different grape varieties to achieve an extraordinary palate. One of the best wines that have fallen into our hands for its value for money.

Winery Tasting Note: View: Deep, purple and blood tones, very clean, of great intensity and brightness. Nose: clean and crisp of ripe fruit, pear compote and sweet apple and quince. Advancing cocoa, dry leaves and bark, guessing some hides in the background. suggestive. Mouth: Tasty, agile, with well integrated tannins. 

The evolution is favourable, due to the perfect harmony between alcohol and acidity. The finish is well resolved, with a full sensation of freshness and meatiness. Modern, elegant and tempting wine.

Winemaker Description

This wine has dark savory fruit with notes of bay, thyme and leather. Firmer structured and chalky on the palate. In typical Bodegas Ponce fashion, La Casilla manages to express the inherent power and structure of Bobal and it's native Manchuela, but goes so with the sort of grace and style that re-calls Cru Beaujolais 

Winemaker Description

Sparkling Moscato at it's finest! It has a lovely sweetness that is balanced by fine bubbles and fresh acidity. Drink it chilled, on its own, or with whatever you're cooking for dinner!
  

Expert Review

Winemaker Description 

González Byass Alfonso Oloroso Seco is a wine made from Palomino Fino from their own vineyards.

As soon as the grapes arrive at the winery, they are softly pressed to obtain the free-run must (mosto yema), which will be used to make this wine. After fermentation, classification and fortification at 18% vol., the wine enters the "solera", where it will remain for an average of eight years in American oak butts, following the traditional "solera" system. The wine ages in full contact with the air, which allows its complete oxidation. 

Winemaker Description 

While this is a fruit-forward Moroccan red, it is made in an OldWorld style with moderate extraction, excellent balance, and complex aromatics: plenty of ripe purple black fruits and dark confiture, with hints of sandalwood. 

MAN Family Wines "Padstal" Chardonnay is a fresh, fruit-driven expression of South African Chardonnay, crafted to highlight purity, balance, and exceptional drinkability. Named after the traditional roadside farm stalls, or padstals, found throughout South Africa, this wine celebrates local hospitality and simple pleasures.

Bright aromas of ripe peach, Golden Delicious apple, citrus blossom, and pineapple lead into a smooth palate layered with juicy stone fruit, lemon zest, and hints of tropical fruit. Gentle oak aging adds subtle notes of vanilla and toasted almond without overshadowing the wine's vibrant fruit character. Crisp acidity keeps the finish fresh, clean, and beautifully balanced.

Food Pairing

An excellent match for grilled shrimp, lobster, roast chicken, creamy pasta dishes, seafood risotto, salmon, pork tenderloin, and mild cheeses. It also makes an ideal aperitif.

Serving Temperature

Serve chilled at 48–52°F (9–11°C).

Approachable, versatile, and consistently overdelivering for the price, MAN Family Wines "Padstal" Chardonnay is a superb everyday Chardonnay that offers outstanding quality and value from South Africa's renowned Western Cape.

Country: South Africa
Region: Western Cape (Cape Coast)
Wine Type: White Wine
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage: 2025

Santi's Solane Valpolicella Ripasso is a rich, elegant expression of one of Veneto's most celebrated wines. Produced using the traditional ripasso method—where young Valpolicella wine is refermented on the dried grape skins from Amarone—this wine gains added depth, richness, and complexity.

The 2021 vintage opens with inviting aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, dried cranberry, sweet spice, and violet, accented by hints of cocoa, tobacco, and vanilla. The palate is silky and full-bodied, offering layers of dark berry fruit, baking spices, and subtle chocolate wrapped around refined tannins. Fresh acidity keeps the wine balanced, leading to a long, smooth finish with lingering notes of spice and dried fruit.

Food Pairing

An excellent companion to grilled steaks, roasted meats, braised short ribs, mushroom risotto, hearty pasta dishes, aged cheeses, and traditional Italian cuisine.

Serving Temperature

Serve at 60–65°F (16–18°C). Decanting for 30–45 minutes before serving will further enhance its aromas and complexity.

About the Producer

Founded in 1843, Santi is one of the historic names of the Veneto, renowned for producing wines that faithfully express the character of Valpolicella. The Solane Ripasso showcases the winery's commitment to tradition, combining the freshness of classic Valpolicella with the richness and elegance achieved through the Ripasso method.

A beautifully balanced Ripasso that delivers the richness of Amarone-inspired winemaking with exceptional value, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Country: Italy
Region: Veneto
Appellation: Valpolicella Ripasso DOC
Vintage: 2021
Wine Type: Red Wine
Grape Varieties: Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella

Chandon · Spritz Garden Collection · Lemon & Verbena · Argentina · 750ml

Chandon Argentina — the Moët Hennessy estate in the Uco Valley — has been making world-class sparkling wine in Mendoza since 1959. Their Garden Collection Spritz takes that same exceptional base wine and elevates it with a hand-selected blend of Argentine botanicals: lemon zest from Tucumán, verbena from Catamarca, white chili pepper, ginger, and artichoke — all macerated naturally to create a color and flavor that is 100% real, nothing artificial. The result is a perfectly balanced, ready-to-serve spritz that tastes like a garden in summer: bright, aromatic, and effortlessly refreshing. At $23.99 for 750ml, it's the easiest entertaining decision you'll make all season.

Pale golden with a delicate blush hue and a lively, persistent bead. The nose is immediately inviting: fresh lemon zest, fragrant verbena, and a subtle herbal lift from the ginger and white pepper. On the palate: light, crisp, and beautifully balanced — citrus-forward with a floral mid-palate and a clean, slightly bitter finish that keeps every sip refreshing. No mixing required. Just pour over 3–4 cubes of ice and serve.

• Producer: Chandon Argentina (Moët Hennessy, est. 1959)
• Style: Ready-to-serve sparkling spritz
• Origin: Mendoza, Argentina
• Base: Chandon sparkling wine
• Botanicals: Lemon zest (Tucumán) · Verbena (Catamarca) · White chili pepper · Ginger · Artichoke · Natural macerates only
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh lemon zest, verbena, ginger, white pepper, floral mid-palate, clean bitter finish
• Serve: Pour over 3–4 ice cubes · No mixing required · Perfect for aperitivo, brunch & outdoor entertaining

Argentine botanicals, Chandon sparkling wine, and zero effort — the garden party in a bottle.

Born Rosé · 'Rambla' · Grenache & Tempranillo · Barcelona, Catalonia · 2025

Born in Barcelona — and proud of it. Born Rosé was built around a single, uncompromising idea: make the best rosé possible, full stop. Their 'Rambla' cuvee blends Grenache Noir and Tempranillo from certified organic vineyards in Catalonia, vinified with minimal sulphites and a light touch that keeps the wine fresh, vibrant, and genuinely sessionable. Organic, vegan, and low in alcohol, this is a rosé designed for the way people actually drink today — and at $15.99, it's one of the most decorated values on the shelf. Gold Medal at the London Wine Competition 2025. Gold Medal at Grenaches du Monde 2024. Decanter, The Drinks Business, International Organic Awards — the accolades keep coming vintage after vintage.

Pale salmon in the glass with a nose of fresh strawberry, watermelon, and a hint of white peach. On the palate: bright, dry, and refreshing with a clean citrus-driven finish and just enough body to hold its own at the table. Serve well-chilled as an aperitif, alongside grilled seafood, or simply on a warm afternoon with nothing to prove. Drink now — and often.

“Gold Medal — London Wine Competition 2025 · Gold Medal — Grenaches du Monde 2024 · Decanter Bronze 2024”
— Born Rosé Barcelona, consecutive vintage recognition since 2019

• Producer: Born Rosé Barcelona
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
• Blend: Grenache Noir & Tempranillo
• Style: Dry rosé, low sulphites, low alcohol
• Certifications: Organic · Vegan
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh strawberry, watermelon, white peach, bright acidity, clean citrus finish
• Food Pairings: Grilled prawns, sushi, burrata, light pasta, aperitivo boards

Gold · London Wine Competition 2025 · Gold · Grenaches du Monde 2024 — Barcelona's most awarded organic rosé, vintage after vintage.

Le Coeur de la Reine · Sauvignon Blanc · Touraine AOC · 2025

"The Heart of the Queen" is a collaboration between two fourth-generation Loire Valley families — Ludivine Marteau and Vincent Leclair — whose roots in Touraine run as deep as the clay-and-flint soils they farm. The Marteaus tend a 29-hectare estate on the south bank of the Cher, while Vincent's family works 45 hectares in Pouillé in the Cher Valley. Together, they farm with the kind of meticulous care that only generational stewardship produces: short-cane pruning, selective ploughing, spring de-budding, deleafing, grass cover, and green harvest — all in service of low yields and exceptional fruit. At $16.99, this is Loire Sauvignon Blanc punching well above its price.

The 2025 is vinified with precision: 60% of the cuvée undergoes 6 hours of skin maceration for texture and aromatic lift, followed by gentle pneumatic pressing and a 7-day cool maceration at 5°C. Fermentation runs 3–4 weeks at 17°C, then the wine rests on its lees in tank to build roundness. The result is a Sauvignon Blanc of real character — an intense nose of citrus, white peach, and blackcurrant bud, leading to a palate that is supple and elegant with a spicy, mineral finish and generous length. Drink now through 2027.

• Producer: Le Coeur de la Reine (Marteau & Leclair families)
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Touraine AOC, Loire Valley, France
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Soils: Clay and flint (perruches), south bank of the Cher
• Vinification: 60% skin maceration (6 hrs) · Pneumatic press · Cool maceration 7 days at 5°C · Fermented at 17°C · Lees aging in tank
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, white peach, blackcurrant bud, supple palate, spicy mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Food Pairings: Oysters, goat cheese, grilled fish, asparagus, light summer salads

Fourth-generation Loire families, clay-flint terroir, and lees-aged precision — Touraine Sauvignon Blanc at its most expressive.

Hacienda Araucano Humo Blanco Organic Sauvignon Blanc — Colchagua Valley 2024

François Lurton and his brother Jacques have been producing Chilean wines since 1992, but it was not until 2000 that they found their ideal terroir: 200 hectares in the Lolol area of the Colchagua Valley, where vines had never been cultivated before. The cool, stable climate and disease-free conditions of this high-altitude site — now certified organic by Ecocert — are a paradise for Sauvignon Blanc, producing fruit of exceptional purity and precision. The Humo Blanco is the estate’s flagship white, and the 2024 vintage is a textbook expression of what cool-climate Chilean Sauvignon Blanc can achieve.

The nose is fresh and bright with good intensity: lime, peeled green apple, gooseberry, and wet stones. On the palate it is acid-driven and pure, with a crisp, zingy finish that lingers with mineral clarity. Serve well-chilled alongside oysters, grilled fish, goat cheese, or a simple green salad — or as the ideal aperitif on a warm evening. At this price, it is one of the most compelling organic Sauvignon Blancs in the shop.

🇨🇱 “A fresh and bright sauvignon blanc showing good intensity. Still acid-driven and limey with peeled green apples, some gooseberries and wet stones. Pure, crisp and zingy in the finish. From organically grown grapes with Ecocert certification.” — James Suckling, 91 Points

• Producer: Hacienda Araucano (François & Jacques Lurton)
• Appellation: Lolol, Colchagua Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2024
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Organic (Ecocert certified)
• Size: 750ml
• Best Served: Well-chilled, 45–48°F
• Pairs With: Oysters, grilled fish, goat cheese, green salads, ceviche

A benchmark organic Sauvignon Blanc — pure, precise, and built for the table.

Kendall-Jackson | Santa Barbara County, California | Chardonnay | 2023

Santa Barbara County's unique east-west mountain orientation channels cold Pacific breezes deep into the estate vineyards of the Santa Maria and Los Alamos Valleys — a geological quirk that produces grapes of exceptional intensity and natural acidity. Aged in partly new French oak, the Grand Reserve Chardonnay delivers a creamy, layered texture grounded by bright minerality from the region's calcareous soils. This is KJ at its most refined: lush, structured, and built for the table.

Clones: Dijon and Rued
Oak: Partly new French oak
Drink: Now–2028

Tasting Notes

• Lush tropical fruit, citrus, and floral notes on the nose
• Vanilla, spice, and calciferous minerality on the palate
• Creamy mouthfeel | Bright acidity | Long, rich finish

Pairings: Crab cakes, scallops, roast chicken, soft cheeses, creamy pasta

Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Chardonnay — Arroyo Seco, Monterey 2023

Wente Vineyards planted Riva Ranch in 1961, long before Arroyo Seco had a reputation to speak of. Karl L. Wente saw what others missed: a cool, wind-driven corridor carved by the Santa Lucia Range, with gravelly loam soils and a microclimate that forces vines to work for every degree of ripeness. Over sixty years later, Riva Ranch remains the heart of the Wente estate — and the 2023 vintage is a compelling argument for why this vineyard matters.

The nose is warm and precise: ripe golden apple, caramelized pineapple, toasted brioche, and a lift of white flower. On the palate, the wine is lush and slightly viscous, with a creamy mid-palate of crème brûlée, roasted hazelnut, and buttery oak. Bright, carefully integrated acidity keeps the wine honest and the finish long. This is a Chardonnay that earns its richness — shaped by place, not formula.

Tasting Panel 93 • James Suckling 91 • Wine Enthusiast 90 — "Fresh and vibrant, with butterscotch adhering to a stony frame. Creamy oak, fine acid structure, and pleasing mango and banana."

• Producer: Wente Vineyards, Livermore Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey, California
• Vineyard: Riva Ranch Estate
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Golden apple, caramelized pineapple, toasted brioche, crème brûlée, roasted hazelnut, buttery oak
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, lobster bisque, grilled halibut, aged Gruyère, creamy pasta

A 93-point California Chardonnay at an honest price — Wente's Riva Ranch is the benchmark for what Arroyo Seco can be.

From one of the pioneering wineries of the Russian River Valley, Davis Bynum River West Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 captures the richness and elegance that have made this region one of California's premier homes for Chardonnay. Sourced from the acclaimed River West Vineyard, this beautifully balanced wine combines vibrant fruit, refreshing acidity, and refined texture. 

The nose opens with expressive aromas of Gala apple, ripe nectarine, lemon peel, and toasted hazelnut, accented by delicate hints of citrus blossom and vanilla. On the palate, layers of orchard fruit and bright citrus unfold across a rich, textured mouthfeel. Fresh acidity provides lift and energy, while subtle oak influence adds complexity without overwhelming the wine's natural fruit character. The finish is long and polished, with lingering notes of salted lemon, pineapple, and baking spice.

A versatile and food-friendly Chardonnay, this Russian River Valley bottling pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled salmon, lobster, crab cakes, creamy pasta dishes, and aged cheeses.

Wine Enthusiast – 92 Points
"Aromas of Gala apple, nectarine, toasted hazelnut and lemon peel drive the nose of this acid-forward Chardonnay. The palate gives rich, pithy texture and sunny flavors of tart pineapple and citrus blossom, with salty lemon lingering on the finish." — Tom R. Capo

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: Gala apple, nectarine, lemon peel, toasted hazelnut
• Palate: Tart pineapple, citrus blossom, orchard fruit, subtle vanilla
• Body: Medium to full-bodied
• Style: Rich, vibrant, and beautifully balanced
• Finish: Long, fresh, and mineral-driven with lingering citrus notes

An elegant Russian River Valley Chardonnay that delivers both richness and precision, showcasing the distinctive character of one of California's most celebrated wine regions.

James Suckling 92 Points | Bright aromas of flowers, angelica and apricots with an undertone of sulphur smoke. Silky attack,light to medium body and graceful, refreshing acidity. 

Vinous 90 Points |  The 2024 Soave Classico Vin Soave is sweetly scented, mixing mint, chamomile and lime zest with green melon. soft-textured yet energetic, it washes across the palate with ripe orchard fruits and crisp mineral tones, leaving a lovely saline tinge. (EG)

JR
Jancis Robinson
Review Date: 05/2025
The wine is bright and lively and the lime-and-grapefruit mid palate has both zip and a little roundness. A little grassy in a way that makes it the most perfect wine for baby broad bean, pea, edamame or asparagus dishes. Textbook. (TC) 

San Felice — Rosso Toscana IGT 2023

San Felice is one of Chianti Classico's most storied estates — a historic borgo in Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the southern reaches of the zone, with vineyards that have been producing wine for centuries. The estate is also home to one of Italy's most important ampelographic collections, preserving rare and ancient Tuscan grape varieties. The Rosso Toscana is their everyday expression: a wine built for the table, not the cellar, blending Sangiovese with complementary indigenous varieties to deliver the kind of honest, food-friendly red that Tuscany does better than anywhere.

The 2023 shows a young, rich ruby in the glass. The nose is refreshing and inviting — raspberry, cherry, and lavender — with a harmonious, easy-drinking palate that is fruit-forward without being simple. This is the bottle you open on a Tuesday, pour freely, and finish without regret. Serve it slightly cool alongside pasta, light meats, fish soups, or a simple charcuterie spread.

• Producer: San Felice, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Rosso Toscana IGT
• Varietal: Sangiovese-based blend
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, cherry, lavender, fresh and harmonious
• Serve: Slightly cool, 14–16°C
• Best Paired With: Pasta, light meats, fish soups, charcuterie, pizza

Honest Tuscan red at an honest price — San Felice's Rosso is the everyday bottle that over-delivers every time.

Gravel-rooted and ungrafted — pure Carmenere from the ancient riverbed soils of Maipo.

The De Martino brothers have spent decades quietly assembling something rare: a collection of ungrafted vines in two of Chile's most historically significant wine regions. This Carmenere comes from the Isla de Maipo — a natural island formed where the Maipo River splits and rejoins — where deep gravel deposits left by the old riverbed create the ideal terroir for Bordeaux varieties to thrive without irrigation or intervention.

Vines averaging 25–30 years old are farmed sustainably and harvested by hand. Fermentation is spontaneous with wild yeast in stainless steel, followed by malolactic fermentation, then aging for approximately 8 months in a combination of older French oak and concrete vats. No makeup. No shortcuts. Just the place.

In the glass, expect ripe red and blue fruit — plum, blackberry, dried cherry — layered with warm spice, cocoa, and a whisper of graphite from the gravel soils. The palate is generous but structured, with a freshness that keeps everything in balance. This is Carmenere as it was always meant to be: varietal, terroir-driven, and deeply Chilean.

Winery: De Martino Ungrafted | Grape: 100% Carmenere | Vintage: 2024 | Region: Maipo Valley, Chile | Size: 750ml

• Vineyard: Santa Inés, Isla de Maipo — east/west orientation, deep gravel soils over old Maipo riverbed
• Viticulture: Sustainable farming, hand harvest, ungrafted vines (avg. 25–30 years)
• Vinification: Spontaneous fermentation with wild yeast in stainless steel; malolactic fermentation in stainless steel
• Aging: ~8 months in older French oak barrels and concrete vats
• Production: Boutique, single-vineyard, estate-grown

Scala Cirò Rosé — Calabria, Italy 2025 750ml

The Scala family has farmed the sun-scorched hills of Calabria for over 200 years — and their Cirò Rosé is one of southern Italy’s most compelling and underappreciated wines. Founded in 1949 and rebuilt with renewed ambition in 2005, the estate is today led by Luigi Scala, a traditionalist who favors quality over quantity and lets the ancient Gaglioppo grape speak for itself. His son Francesco joined in 2008, bringing modern precision to a winery rooted in centuries of Calabrian heritage. The Cirò DOC, established in 1969, is one of Italy’s oldest appellations — and Scala is among its finest interpreters.

Translucent salmon-orange in color with brilliant clarity. The nose is aromatic and inviting: spicy peach, watermelon, and blood orange mingle with distinct stony, mineral notes. On the palate, it is gorgeously rounded and silky — tangy blood orange, peach, and citrus fruits are underscored by wet slate and a saline mineral tension that is unmistakably Calabrian. The finish is long, fresh, and deeply satisfying.

• Producer: Scala, Cirò, Calabria, Italy
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Cirò DOC
• Varietal: 100% Gaglioppo
• Style: Dry Southern Italian Rosé
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, watermelon, blood orange, citrus, wet slate, saline minerality, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now
• Best Paired With: Grilled swordfish, pasta al pomodoro, burrata, antipasti, Calabrian charcuterie

Ancient grape, ancient appellation, modern precision — Scala’s Cirò Rosé is Calabria’s best-kept secret.

Carpano Classico Vermouth Rosso — Turin, Italy | 16% ABV

Carpano Classico is the everyday expression from the house that invented vermouth — and it delivers the full depth of Turin craftsmanship at an approachable price. Positioned between the Dry and the legendary Antica Formula, Classico is the Carpano for the table: the go-to sweet vermouth for Negronis, Americanos, and Manhattans, built from the same 1786 heritage and the same commitment to botanical precision that defines the entire Carpano range. Rich, aromatic, and endlessly versatile, it is the bottle that earns a permanent spot behind every serious home bar.

The nose is warm and inviting: ripe red fruit, aromatic herbs, and a gentle spice that speaks to the quality of the botanical blend. On the palate, it is smooth and well-rounded — a classic sweet vermouth profile with balanced sweetness, herbal complexity, and a clean, lingering finish. Equally at home in a Negroni, stirred into a Manhattan, or served over ice with a splash of soda as a classic Americano aperitif.

“Carpano Classico brings the 1786 Turin heritage to the everyday pour — the approachable sweet vermouth that belongs in every serious cocktail repertoire.”

• Producer: Carpano Distillery, Turin, Piedmont, Italy (est. 1786)
• Style: Sweet (Red) Vermouth — Rosso Classico
• ABV: 16%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe red fruit, aromatic herbs, gentle spice, smooth and well-rounded, clean herbal finish
• Best Served: In a Negroni, Manhattan, Americano, or Boulevardier — or over ice with soda as an aperitif
• Food Pairings: Charcuterie, aged cheeses, olives, antipasto, dark chocolate
• Storage: Refrigerate after opening

Approachable, aromatic, and rooted in 235 years of Turin tradition — Carpano Classico is the benchmark for what an everyday sweet vermouth should be.

Pielihueso · 'Primero' Blanco · Los Chacayes, Uco Valley · 2025

"Skin and bones" — that's what Pielihueso means in Spanish, and it captures the philosophy perfectly: nothing added, nothing taken away, just the raw expression of the land. This family project began in 2017 when Alejandro Bartolomé — a lifelong organic farmer — and his daughter Celina planted vines in Los Chacayes and Los Sauces, two high-altitude subregions of the Uco Valley in Tunuyán, Mendoza. The labels were designed by daughter Carmela, drawn from her brother's artwork. Everything here is a family affair. The vines — now 13 years old — grow in sandy, alluvial soils at elevation, farmed organically with no corrections in the cellar: native yeast fermentation, co-fermented in stainless steel, and a minimal sulfur addition only at bottling. The result is exactly what the Bartolomés set out to make: light, bright, clean, and vibrant. At $21.99, it's one of the most honest and charming whites coming out of Argentina right now.

The 2025 'Primero' Blanco is a co-fermented blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, showing a pale straw color with a fresh, aromatic nose of white peach, citrus blossom, and green apple. On the palate: crisp and lively with a clean, mineral-driven finish and just enough texture from the sandy soils to give it presence. Serve well-chilled as an aperitif or alongside light summer dishes. Drink now through 2026.

• Producer: Pielihueso (Bartolomé family, est. 2017)
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Los Chacayes, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
• Blend: Chardonnay & Sauvignon Blanc
• Soils: Sandy, alluvial · High altitude
• Vinification: Organic · Co-fermented in stainless steel · Native yeast · No corrections · Minimal sulfur at bottling
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White peach, citrus blossom, green apple, crisp acidity, clean mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2026
• Food Pairings: Grilled fish, ceviche, fresh goat cheese, summer salads, light pasta

A family-farmed, organically grown Uco Valley white — skin and bones winemaking at its most refreshing.

Sourced from high-elevation Karneid, this Schiava comes from vines aged 35 to 60 years. Crisp, focused, and lifted, with the freshness of a mountain white wine.

Country: Italy
Region: Alto Adige / Südtirol
Appellation: Südtirol DOC
Producer: Franz Gojer / Glögglhof
Grape Variety: Vernatsch / Schiava
Vintage: 2025
Wine Type: Red Wine

Franz Gojer is a cult Alto Adige producer known for elegant, mineral-driven mountain wines with a strong sense of place. His Vernatsch / Schiava 2025 is a limited-production red sourced from the high-elevation Karneid area, the same mountainous zone where Gojer grows several of his white varieties.

Schiava, known locally as Vernatsch, is one of Alto Adige’s signature red grapes. In Gojer’s hands, it becomes a fresh, lifted, and delicate mountain red rather than a heavy or deeply extracted wine. This bottling comes from old vines, approximately 35 to 60 years old, planted near the upper limits where Schiava can successfully ripen. The result is a crisp, focused red with beautiful purity and finesse.

Expect notes of wild red berries, cranberry, cherry, alpine herbs, delicate florals, and subtle mineral tones. The wine is light-bodied, fresh, and elegant, with gentle tannins and bright acidity. It is the kind of red that can be served slightly chilled and enjoyed with a wide range of foods.

Food Pairing Suggestions:
Excellent with charcuterie, speck, prosciutto, roasted chicken, turkey, pork, grilled sausages, mushroom dishes, alpine cheeses, pizza, pasta with light tomato sauce, and lightly spiced dishes. It is also a great choice for picnic-style meals, cheese boards, and lighter fare where a heavier red would overpower the food.

Style: Light-bodied, fresh, elegant, mineral-driven
Best Served: Slightly chilled, around 55–58°F

Tasting Notes

Powder bright pink in color. Aromas of small red fruits on a finely spiced background. The palate is fresh, persistent and fruity, followed by citrus notes and minerals with a very balanced acid framework.

Vineyard

Sourced from the Cernetig vineyard in the Cialla Valley — a 0.70 hectare parcel with south-southeast exposure at 200–230 meters in elevation. The soil is a mix of marl (clay and lime) with marly limestone, notable for its especially high pH, which the family believes contributes to the wine’s aging potential.

Viticulture

Both Ivan and his brother Pierpaolo are entomologists, making biodiversity central to their philosophy. The winery is certified “Biodiversity Friend” — an organization that surveys and protects biodiversity, ensuring the production process does not lead to environmental loss and that the producer is committed to improving the quality of the surrounding ecosystem.

Winemaking

Maceration on the skins for 18 hours followed by very soft pressing. Fermentation of the free-run must in stainless steel at controlled temperature. Aged for a couple of months in bottle before release.

About the Producer

Ronchi di Cialla is a historic producer in the Colli Orientali del Friuli, just under three miles from the Slovenian border. Ronchi means “hills,” and Cialla — the name of the valley — derives from the Slovenian word cela, meaning “riviera,” a nod to the valley’s Mediterranean-like microclimate, complete with olive trees and other Mediterranean flora.

• Producer: Ronchi di Cialla
• Appellation: Colli Orientali del Friuli, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
• Varietal: Schioppettino (Ribolla Nera)
• Vintage: 2025
• Format: 750ml
• Style: Dry, fresh, mineral rosé
• Viticulture: Biodiversity Friend certified
• Vineyard: Cernetig, Cialla Valley — 0.70 ha, 200–230m elevation
• Pairings: Seafood, salads, charcuterie, fresh cheeses

About This Bundle

Get two of our favorite Marrugat Cavas from Bodegas Pinord at a special bundle price — one bottle of the classic Brut Selección NV and one bottle of the Brut Rosé. Both are made using the traditional method (Méthode Traditionnelle) in the Penedès region of Catalonia, Spain, and offer exceptional value in Spanish sparkling wine.

Producer Notes

Marrugat Cava Brut Selección NV (Xarel·lo, Macabeu, Parellada) — Smooth and silky on the palate with green apple, lime, and a fresh, lively finish. The carbonic content keeps it crisp and refreshing. WE 87 pts.

Marrugat Cava Brut Rosé (Garnacha) — Clear red with pinkish tones and small, persistent bubbles. Gentle raspberry and blackcurrant aromas with tertiary lees notes. Full in the mouth with great elegance and a long finish.

Food Pairings

• Oysters, shrimp cocktail, or seafood tapas
• Jamón ibérico or charcuterie
• Fresh goat cheese or aged Manchego
• Perfect as an aperitif or celebration pour

Cool-Climate Riesling from Chile's Southern Frontier

Trotamundos — Spanish for "globetrotter" — is a fitting name for a wine that defies expectations. Sourced from a single vineyard in the Bío Bío Valley, one of Chile's southernmost and coolest wine regions, this 100% Riesling captures the crisp, aromatic character that cool-climate viticulture delivers best.

Grown organically and vinified with minimal intervention, this is a wine of precision and freshness — a rare find from a region still largely undiscovered by mainstream wine drinkers.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Bright yellow with luminous green nuances
• Nose: Intense aromas of white peach, honey, and fresh lemon zest
• Palate: Semi-sweet with vibrant, well-balanced acidity and a clean, pleasant finish

Pairing Suggestions

A natural partner for spicy Asian cuisine, fresh seafood, soft cheeses, and fruit-forward desserts. Also exceptional on its own as an aperitif.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 100% Riesling
• Appellation: Bío Bío Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2022
• ABV: 12%
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Organic / Biodynamic

From the dramatic cliffs of the Pelješac Peninsula on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast comes this expressive Plavac Mali — a grape with deep roots and a fascinating story. One of its parents is Tribidrag, better known to Americans as Zinfandel, and the family resemblance shows in the wine's bold fruit character and rustic charm.

The Skaramuca family farms the largest vineyard in the prestigious Dingač appellation, widely considered the finest Plavac Mali site in all of Croatia. Only a handful of growers produce wine here, making each bottle a rare expression of this extreme, sun-drenched terroir. This 2024 is unoaked, letting the fruit take center stage — youthful, bright, and easygoing while still carrying that unmistakable Dalmatian rusticity.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby
• Nose: Plum, cherry, and floral notes
• Palate: Medium-bodied with mouth-watering acidity, chewy earthy fruitiness, and a lingering finish
• Style: Unoaked, fruit-forward, and approachable

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at 16–18°C
• Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, peka (Croatian slow-roasted meat), pasta, and aged cheeses
• Enjoy slightly chilled in warmer months

750ml. Plavac Mali. Pelješac Peninsula, Dalmatia, Croatia.

A pure expression of Burgundy Chardonnay grown on clay and limestone soils, offering finesse, balance, and a beautifully structured aromatic profile. Fresh and lively, with subtle orchard fruit and a clean, elegant finish, this is an easy-drinking yet classic “pleasure wine.” 

Food Pairing:
Perfect with soft cheeses, cold cuts, pâté, mixed salads, and light appetizers like gougères or simple poultry dishes.

Our Notes: 

100% Chardonnay from clay and chalk soils of the Cote d'Auxerre.  This is the purest of pure expressions of Chardonnay, offering up enticing aromas of mirabelle plum, and ripe pear.  It is fresh and lively on the palate, making it a perfect companion to soft ripened cheeses, cold cuts,and paté.

Tasting Notes

Canaan White is an easy-drinking, semi-dry white wine with rich floral and fruity tones and well-balanced acidity. Approachable and refreshing, it's crafted for immediate enjoyment — a crowd-pleasing Kosher white that works beautifully at any table.

About the Wine

Part of Dalton Winery's approachable Canaan series, this semi-dry white blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling was designed with the Israeli climate and Mediterranean cuisine in mind. Vegan-friendly and food-versatile, it's a go-to for Shabbat, holidays, and everyday occasions alike.

Food Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled fish, light pasta, salads, and soft cheeses. Serve well chilled.

Product Details

• Appellation: Galilee, Israel
• Varietals: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling
• Style: Semi-Dry
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml
• Certification: Kosher
• Dietary: Vegan-Friendly
• Producer: Dalton Winery

Indulgent California Cream Sherry

Fairbanks Cream Sherry delivers a luxurious dessert wine experience in a generous 1.5-liter magnum format. Crafted in California, this sweet and slightly nutty sherry showcases exceptional balance and craftsmanship. Perfect for those who appreciate the rich, velvety character of fortified wines, Fairbanks offers an approachable yet sophisticated option for dessert pairings and after-dinner enjoyment.

Tasting Notes & Flavor Profile

This well-made cream sherry greets you with inviting aromas of toasted nuts, caramel, and dried fruits. On the palate, discover a harmonious blend of sweetness and subtle nuttiness, with notes of toffee, roasted almonds, and hints of vanilla. The smooth, silky texture leads to a pleasantly lingering finish that balances richness with refreshing acidity, making each sip a delightful experience.

Perfect Dessert & Food Pairings

Fairbanks Cream Sherry shines as a dessert wine companion. Pair it with classic pairings like crème brûlée, pecan pie, or bread pudding for an elevated experience. It also complements blue cheese, aged cheddar, or a charcuterie board featuring dried fruits and nuts. Serve it slightly chilled as an aperitif, or enjoy it alongside dark chocolate desserts, tiramisu, or fruit tarts for a memorable finish to any meal.

Magnum Size for Sharing & Celebrations

The 1.5-liter magnum format makes Fairbanks Cream Sherry ideal for entertaining, holiday gatherings, and special occasions. This larger bottle size ensures you have plenty to share with guests, whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating the holidays, or simply enjoying a relaxed evening with friends and family. The magnum also makes an impressive gift for sherry enthusiasts and dessert wine lovers.

Versatile Enjoyment

Beyond traditional dessert pairings, Fairbanks Cream Sherry offers versatile enjoyment options. Sip it neat as a digestif, pour it over vanilla ice cream for an instant affogato-style treat, or use it in cocktails and culinary applications. Its balanced sweetness and nutty complexity make it a pantry staple for both drinking and cooking, adding depth to sauces, glazes, and dessert recipes.

Experience the elegance of Curio California Pinot Noir 2024

Experience the elegance of Curio California Pinot Noir 2024, an honest expression of Pinot Noir as it was meant to be. Lovingly produced by minimalist winemakers James and Lorenza Allen of Accenti Wines, this wine showcases pure, unblemished Pinot Noir character through spontaneous fermentation, low-extraction, and moderate oak influence. With its lush, fruity aromas and sophisticated tannins, this wine beautifully captures the essence of California, making it an excellent choice for both casual drinkers and discerning connoisseurs.

Professional Review - Bart Hopkins, 67wino.shop

"Curio Pinot Noir is lovingly produced by minimalist winemakers James and Lorenza Allen of Accenti Wines. Spontaneous fermentation, low-extraction, and moderate oak influence are hallmarks of their style in the cellar. They don't add stuff like yeast, bacteria, tannins, or enzymes to the wines because well-farmed fruit and careful attention to detail eliminates the need for additives.

The 2024 Curio is Pinot Noir as it was meant to be. It's an honest expression of the varietal, pure and unblemished, every sip a revelation of flavor. On the nose, inviting aromas of dark cherry, wild strawberry and spiced plum swirl from the glass with elevated anticipation. The flavors coalesce joyfully in the mouth with elegance and harmonious balance, revealing a gentle earthiness and savory spice that resonates into the finish like a long Mediterranean sunset.

True to its form, this is a food lover's Pinot Noir. Don't be afraid to be adventurous, this Pinot will take on whatever culinary challenge it meets with delectable agility, whether it's a gourmet feast or a simple mid-week excursion."

James & Lorenza Allen - Accenti Wines

Curio Pinot Noir is crafted by James and Lorenza Allen, the talented winemaking duo behind Accenti Wines. Their minimalist approach to winemaking focuses on letting the fruit speak for itself, using spontaneous fermentation and careful attention to detail rather than additives. This philosophy creates wines of exceptional purity and character.

Minimalist Winemaking Philosophy

Spontaneous fermentation, low-extraction, and moderate oak influence are hallmarks of the Allens' style in the cellar. They don't add yeast, bacteria, tannins, or enzymes to the wines because well-farmed fruit and careful attention to detail eliminates the need for additives. This natural approach allows the true character of the Pinot Noir grape to shine through.

Pinot Noir as It Was Meant to Be

The 2024 Curio is Pinot Noir as it was meant to be - an honest expression of the varietal, pure and unblemished. Every sip is a revelation of flavor, showcasing the grape's natural elegance and complexity without manipulation or heavy-handed winemaking techniques.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Bright ruby red characteristic of Pinot Noir
Aroma: Inviting aromas of dark cherry, wild strawberry and spiced plum swirl from the glass with elevated anticipation. Lush, fruity aromas with hints of vanilla
Palate: The flavors coalesce joyfully in the mouth with elegance and harmonious balance. Ripe cherries, hints of vanilla, and subtle earthy undertones. Gentle earthiness and savory spice. Well-structured with sophisticated tannins. Vibrant acidity
Finish: Resonates into the finish like a long Mediterranean sunset. Smooth finish that lingers, allowing you to appreciate its depth

Well-Farmed Fruit

The quality of Curio Pinot Noir begins in the vineyard with well-farmed fruit from California's sun-kissed vineyards. Careful attention to viticulture ensures grapes of exceptional quality that require minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the terroir and vintage to express themselves fully.

2024 Vintage Excellence

The 2024 vintage showcases the exceptional quality that Curio wines are known for. This vintage captures the essence of California Pinot Noir with its pure fruit expression, elegant structure, and harmonious balance.

A Food Lover's Pinot Noir

True to its form, this is a food lover's Pinot Noir. Don't be afraid to be adventurous - this Pinot will take on whatever culinary challenge it meets with delectable agility, whether it's a gourmet feast or a simple mid-week excursion. The wine's versatility and balance make it perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This Pinot Noir elevates any meal with its refined character and vibrant acidity:

• Grilled salmon and seafood
• Rich mushroom risotto
• Roasted duck and poultry
• Pork tenderloin
• Earthy vegetable dishes
• Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert
• Charcuterie boards
• Gourmet feasts or simple mid-week meals

Elegant & Harmonious Balance

The flavors coalesce joyfully in the mouth with elegance and harmonious balance. This complexity creates a harmonious balance on the palate and invites you to dive deeper with every sip, revealing layers of flavor that make each glass a discovery.

Pure & Unblemished Expression

Every sip is a revelation of flavor - pure and unblemished Pinot Noir character without additives or manipulation. The minimalist winemaking approach ensures that what you taste is the true expression of the grape and terroir.

California Terroir

Each sip unfolds a story crafted from grapes grown in the sun-kissed vineyards of California. The wine beautifully captures the essence of the region, showcasing California's ability to produce world-class Pinot Noir with elegance and character.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Curio California Pinot Noir is more than just a bottle of wine; it's an experience waiting to be savored. Enjoy it with good company or as a perfect complement to your favorite dishes. It's a wine that enhances occasions, making it a perfect option for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Delectable Agility

This Pinot will take on whatever culinary challenge it meets with delectable agility. The wine's versatility, balanced structure, and vibrant acidity make it adaptable to various cuisines and cooking styles, from elegant fine dining to casual weeknight meals.

A Wine That Tells a Story

The Curio California Pinot Noir tells a story of minimalist winemaking, well-farmed fruit, and the pursuit of pure expression. Let the story of Curio unfold with each glass, revealing the passion and dedication of James and Lorenza Allen in creating an honest, elegant Pinot Noir that honors the varietal and the California terroir.

Welcome to Chardonnay

Winemaker Description

Barkan Classic Chardonnay is produced from grapes grown at the winery's vineyards in the center of Israel. The vines yield small crops and ripen early. Hand picked in small containers, the grapes are rushed to the winery to ensure maximum quality.

The wine ferments slowly at cool temperatures and yields a wine with a rich nose of blueberries, guava, and pears. It is well structured, balanced and lingers in the mouth.

Ideal with poultry and hard cheese.

A Taste of Excellence

Welcome to Chardonnay, where each sip of Barkan Chardonnay Classic Kosher 2024 reveals a symphony of flavors. This exquisite wine is carefully crafted to deliver notes of ripe apples and tropical fruits, providing a refreshing experience. The smooth finish makes it a perfect choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions. You will not only enjoy its taste but also appreciate its quality, as it is produced under strict kosher guidelines.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This 375ml half-bottle of Barkan Chardonnay is ideal for intimate dinners or personal enjoyment. Whether you are pairing it with seafood, light pasta dishes, or cheese platters, it is versatile enough to complement various cuisines. Many appreciate its balance of acidity and sweetness, making it a delightful companion for food. Because of its elegant packaging, it also makes a wonderful gift for friends and family.

Why Choose Barkan Chardonnay?

So why choose Barkan Chardonnay? This wine stands out because of its commitment to quality and kosher certification. Each bottle captures the essence of the vineyard, allowing you to savor the true taste of Chardonnay. You can feel confident in serving a wine that not only pleases the palate but also adheres to dietary traditions. With Barkan Chardonnay, you are choosing a wine that is both delicious and meaningful.