2010 - Present Wine

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

James Suckling 91 Points | Spiced plums, dark cherries and a touch of hazelnuts and chocolate. Juicy and fine-grained with medium to full body and a plump, fruity finish showing a hint of vanilla and plenty of strawberries at the end. Vegan. Drink now but can hold for a few years.

Decanter 89 Points | The oak here is well integrated, supporting the wine and bringing balsamic, minty notes. It is classic in style with red fruits on the finish and fresh acidity.

Memo Summary Notes

The Ramon Bilbao Rioja Crianza 2022 is a quintessential expression of modern Rioja. It is widely regarded as a "reliable classic"—a wine that balances the traditional influence of American oak with a vibrant, fruit-forward profile.

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

Winemaker Description

In the eastern reaches of Sancerre lies a distinctive terroir defined by silex — the French term for flint — a dense, siliceous soil that gives this wine its singular mineral character. Light yellow with a golden core, the nose reveals fine, elegant flint-smoke notes that immediately announce the wine’s origins. Beneath the minerality, a layer of yellow fruit and delicate florals adds complexity and density.

On the palate, the flint-smoke character continues, framed by a full, juicy mouthfeel that remains precise and elegant. Powerful acidity drives the long, tense finish. This is Sauvignon Blanc at its most mineral and structured — the clay-siliceous soils, rich in siliceous conglomerates, providing exceptional finesse and a marked aromatic intensity that sets the Silex cuvée apart from classic Sancerre.

About J de Villebois

J de Villebois is a leading producer of Kosher Loire Valley wines, crafting appellation-driven Sauvignon Blancs from Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, and Touraine under strict kosher supervision. The Silex cuvée represents the estate’s prestige expression — sourced exclusively from flint-rich parcels in the eastern sector of Sancerre, where the terroir imparts a smoky, mineral complexity rarely found at any price point.

Kosher Certification

Fully Kosher certified and suitable for Passover. An exceptional choice for Shabbat, Passover Seder, and any occasion requiring Kosher wine without compromise on quality.

Food Pairings

Oysters, grilled sole, sea bass, sushi, goat cheese, asparagus, and herb-roasted chicken. A natural partner for Passover Seder fish courses and light spring dishes.

Product Details

• Producer: J de Villebois
• Region: Sancerre AOC, Loire Valley, France
• Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
• Terroir: Silex (flint) soils
• Certification: Kosher, Kosher for Passover
• Vintage: 2024
• Style: Mineral, flint-driven, high-acid Loire white
• Format: 750ml

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.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Bright, pale yellow — light and almost transparent with a touch of gold at the edges.

Aroma: Green apple peel, earthy minerals, lemon zest and pith, light earthy tones, and subtle hints of tropical fruit — pineapple and guava.

Palate: Bone dry, light to medium-bodied. Vibrant acidity and minerality with layers of apple, pear, and subtle citrus. Freshly sliced lemon dominates the mid-palate, with earthy tones keeping everything in balance.

Finish: Crisp and clean, with a bright acid punch on the back palate.

Winemaking

Vinified and aged entirely in stainless steel tanks to preserve the wine’s natural freshness, purity, and mineral character — the hallmarks of classic Chablis. No oak influence; just the pure expression of Kimmeridgian terroir and Chardonnay.

About Pascal Bouchard

Pascal Bouchard is a respected Chablis producer with vineyards spanning the appellation’s most prized terroirs, from village-level Chablis to Premier and Grand Cru sites. The domaine has been producing wines in Chablis for generations, with a philosophy rooted in minimal intervention and maximum terroir expression. Their kosher Chablis — certified Kosher for Passover and Mevushal — is crafted to the same exacting standards as their full range, bringing the authentic character of Chablis to the kosher table without compromise.

Food Pairings

Grilled fish, sushi and sashimi, soft cheeses, and light poultry dishes. A natural match for Shabbat fish courses, Passover seders, and holiday tables. The quintessential wine for seafood.

Product Details

• Producer: Pascal Bouchard
• Appellation: Chablis AOC, Burgundy, France
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Soils: Kimmeridgian limestone and clay
• Aging: Stainless steel — no oak
• Certification: Kosher for Passover, Mevushal
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Crisp, mineral, unoaked Chablis
• Format: 750ml

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 — Vintage 2023

• Jasper Morris 90 Points | Pale with a lime streak. Classically Montagny with a crushed shell note on the nose. Very intense overall, pure white fruit, just a light lemon rinse, stretching out nicely at the finish. Does just what it should. Drink 2026–2029.

Winemaker Notes

Very spicy on the nose and on the palate. Creamy vanilla bean flavors, round and silky in texture with lovely acidity and juicy fruit — a beautiful balance of tropical pineapple and citrus with a lingering finish.

• Grape Source: 100% Chardonnay
• Appellation: Montagny 1er Cru
• Location: Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy / France
• Producer: Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot
• Drink Window: 2026–2029

Winemaker Description 

Cherry, pomegranate, and floral notes of lavender and violets. Dried cranberry, black raspberry, cocoa, vanilla, and black pepper spice.

Intense, vibrant red fruit—black cherry, cranberry, pomegranate—mixed with darker flavors of currant, plum, and hints of chocolate and vanilla. Nice acidity, making the wine balanced and sweet, but not at all cloying—an ideal dessert wine.

Dashe Cellars has made Late Harvest Zinfandels since 1997, and this luscious and balanced dessert wine has always been a favorite. This particular Late Harvest Zinfandel is made from grapes grown on the Louvau Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley. One of the reasons that we love this vineyard is the wonderful acidity of the grapes. The resulting wine is focused and clear—it’s never cloying, and always finishes with a crisp, clean, sweet-spicy note.

We create the conditions for making Late Harvest Zinfandel by allowing the grapes to hang on the vine approximately 3--4 weeks after they normally would be picked for a dry wine. These grapes were picked on October 30th on a beautiful Fall day, and the grapes arrived at the winery at 40° Brix of sugar. We crushed the grapes into a small 1,500-gallon tank and as is our tradition at Dashe Cellars, we fermented the grapes naturally, using the native yeasts that naturally live on the skins of the grapes. We let the grapes macerate to gain color and flavor, and then allowed the tank to warm. The fermentation took off quickly, and then naturally halted when the alcohol had reached about 15.5% and the sugar level was about 9%. We always allow the wine to achieve its balance of sweetness and alcohol naturally, by letting the fermentation finish on its own. The wine was aged in older French oak barrels so as to not overpower the intensity of the fruit. We bottled the wine as soon as possible to maintain its fresh fruit flavors and conserve its sweet concentration and purity. The wine is unfined and received minimal handling to the bottle.

Technical Description 

• Practicing Sustainable
• 100% Zinfandel
• Lily Hill Vineyard (Dry Creek Valley AVA)
• Originally planted in 1915, replanted in 2001
• 800 – 1,000 ft. elevation
• Harvested 3-4 weeks after normal picking for dry wines
• Crushed into stainless steel tanks
• Native yeast fermentation
• Aged in older French barrels
• R.S. 90 g/L or 9% by volume
• 381 cases produced
• 14.5% abv

Winemaker Description

Owned and operated by the highly-acclaimed Château Peybonhomme-Les Tours. This is an entirely biodynamic estate and the winemaking is very low intervention. This bottling is 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet-Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet-Franc, and 5% Malbec.

Memo Summary Notes

Château La Grolet 2022 is a standout "natural" Bordeaux from the Côtes de Bourg (located on the Right Bank, across the river from Margaux). Owned by the Hubert family (who also own Château Peybonhomme-Les Tours), this estate is a pioneer in sustainable viticulture, having been certified biodynamic for over 20 years.

Pair with 

Classic: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary or a traditional beef stew (Bœuf Bourguignon).

Rustic: Hearty lentil stews, tourtière (meat pie), or roasted root vegetables.

Cheese: Pairs exceptionally well with Comté or aged Cheddar.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling - 94 Points: "Abundant black-fruit aromas supported by spices, cedar, crushed stones and violets. The medium-bodied palate has a creamy texture and finely tuned, generous tannins with so much purity of fruit. Grown further away from the ocean with a more continental feel. Delicious and early-drinking yet serious. Drink or hold. Screw cap."

Wine Enthusiast - 92 Points: "An excellent intro to this famed Western Australian Cab style, this vintage is, compared to the previous two, on the richer, denser side. Supple dark berry fruit with salt-flecked herbs, seaweed savoriness and a dark chocolate underbelly are woven with powdery, chiseled tannins and tangy blackcurrant acidity. Drink now with plenty of protein or age for several more years."

Wine Spectator - 91 Points: "A generous mix of kirsch, cassis and blackberry flavors is dense and dark, accented by notes of palo santo, tobacco and cardamom. The tannins are dense, and a grace note of malty Assam black tea lingers on the finish, with plenty of harmony and firming tannins. Drink now through 2032."  - MaryAnn Worobiec,

Winemaker Notes

'Son of' the Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon. It carries the structure, power and tannins of classic Cabernet in an earlier drinking, more forward style from fruit sourced from each of the Vasse Felix vineyards.

A remarkably ripe and soft wine. A deep perfume with blackcurrant, blueberry and coffee mocha complexities. Notes of dusty earth and woody perennial herbs mingle with hints of nori, dried forest leaves and wild mushrooms to create an inviting aroma. A light fragrant entrance with blackcurrant, raspberry and potpourri builds to earthy complexities and fine dry dusty tannins which serve to frame the fruit. A comfortable, soft, juicy body and tannin profile finishes the wine fresh and long.

This striking Brut Nature Champagne showcases the precision and depth of 100% Pinot Noir from Christophe Mignon’s meticulously farmed vineyards in the western Vallée de la Marne. Vinified with a minimalist approach and zero dosage, the wine is fermented and matured in large oak foudres, allowing the purity of the fruit and the character of the terroir to shine without excess influence.

In the glass, it reveals a beautiful shimmering hue with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose is clean and refined, offering subtle woody notes layered with red apple, citrus peel, and hints of toasted almond. On the palate, the wine is powerful yet impeccably precise, delivering vibrant freshness, excellent tension, and a long, mineral-driven finish. The oak integration is seamless, enhancing structure and complexity while preserving energy and elegance.

This Champagne is a compelling expression of Pinot Noir in its most transparent form—vinous, structured, and deeply expressive—crafted for those who appreciate authenticity, finesse, and terroir-driven Champagne.

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Champagne, France
Style: Brut Nature (Zero Dosage)
Base Year: 2018

Crafted from Chardonnay grown on the chalky and clay-limestone soils of Festigny, this Brut Nature Champagne is vinified and matured partially in large oak foudres, allowing texture and depth to develop without masking purity. The nose is clean and refined, revealing subtle notes of fresh apple, lemon zest, white flowers, and a gentle hint of toasted almond from oak aging.

On the palate, the wine is precise and energetic, driven by vibrant acidity and a finely integrated mousse. Flavors of citrus, green pear, and almond are layered with a delicate saline edge and restrained woody nuance. With zero dosage, the finish is long, focused, and mineral, highlighting the natural expression of Chardonnay and the craftsmanship of Christophe Mignon.

Elegant, structured, and deeply expressive, this Champagne is an excellent choice for lovers of terroir-driven, low-intervention wines and pairs beautifully with shellfish, seafood, or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative aperitif.

Memo Summary Notes

Sip without sacrafice. Enjoy your weekday unwind without feeling the tradeoffs tomorrow. 

Zero Sugar. 9 percent Alcohol. Low Calories. 

The Provenance Vineyard Weekday Chardonnay is part of a special line of wines focused on wellness, sustainability, and approachability.

Expert Reviews - Vingage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Tonya Pitts writes 92 Points | There are so many gems coming out of the 2023 vintage in California. Flavors of fresh-picked red berries, plums, pomegranates, mint sprigs, a kiss of earth and sunshine tell the story of a short but almost perfect growing season. Pick this one up and give it a whirl on the dinner table. 

The Tasting Panel 91 Points | This bright and shining red is a floral beauty packed with peony, violets, orange blossom, and red tea. Cherry pie arises on the midpalate.

Winemaker Description 

Production:
• Regeneratively farmed
• Certified sustainable per “Lodi Rules”
• Aged 12 mos. in seasoned French oak
• Vegan-friendly

Composition: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon • 25% Nero d'Avola

Eye: Deep garnet core, translucent ruby rim.

Nose: Gardenia, lilac, lavender, violet, black cherry, dried rose petals, spicy cedar, cigar box, and sweet vanilla.

Palate: Ripe blue & black fruits with subtle citrus, eucalyptus & brown sugar. Structured yet lush and creamy with soft, supple tannins that lead to an endlessly
delightful finish.

Pairing inspirations: Grilled portobello mushroom with balsamic garlic glaze, Moroccan spiced lamb, spaghetti Bolognese, vegetable lasagne, wild mushroom risotto, Margherita pizza.

House of Brown is a second-generation wine label under the BROWN Napa Valley umbrella, which also includes Chaos Theory and is anchored by flagship Brown Estate.

The Brown family have been in Napa since 1980. Siblings Deneen, Coral, and David began making wine in 1996. Raised by two medical professionals in a “Blue-Zone” household in Southern California, they all pitched in at their parents’ medical clinic. There, they adopted what would become a guiding principle in their wine business: Do no harm.

The creation of House of Brown was inspired by an extraordinary community of wine consumers who for over two decades had been finding themselves at home with Brown Estate, and in 2017 began assembling at the family’s then newly opened Brown Downtown Napa tasting room. This period marked an evolution in wine consumer demographics, with the industry at large seeing an influx of young and culturally diverse enthusiasts coming to the fore — dynamics that have been manifest at Brown for decades.

House of Brown was established in 2018 to expand access to the Brown wine experience, then nearly 25 years strong. The label designs are an homage to the brand’s Feel Seen ethos, and to the sense of welcome and belonging that are hallmarks at Brown. Produced with the same commitment to purity and balance that is foundational to Brown Estate, House of Brown wines are regeneratively farmed, certified sustainable, and vegan-friendly.

House of Brown is 100% family-owned + 100% Black-owned, and the brand is women-led.

Memo Summary Notes

The House of Brown Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is a relatively new addition to the "next-generation" lineup from the legendary Brown Estate—Napa Valley's first Black-owned estate winery. This Lodi bottling is designed to be inclusive, sustainable, and highly aromatic.

Highly versatile. It pairs excellently with Margherita pizza, grilled portobello mushrooms with balsamic glaze, Moroccan spiced lamb, or wild mushroom risotto.

Winemaker Description 

This vintage is the fruit of setting up my establishment. It embodies my doubts, my
fears, my mistakes, my great joy, my passion, my convictions.

This wine plot is located on a rocky outcrop, on the summit of the Palais Mount. Its name comes from the Latin word “barra”, copied from the Gallic “barro” which means
“elevation, summit, peak”. Chalky brown soils, clay-limestone subsoils. Located at 300 meters high, on a plateau.

There is a forest which occupies the ridge of the mountain which protects and shelters the vineyard from the wind. This cool environment helps to produce the floral and aromatic character plus the freshness of the wines.

Fresh white fruits aromas accompanied by floral touches and mineral notes. It leaves a fresh cool taste in mouth and blends together a tonic effect with smoothness. This tense and invigorating juice leaves a long-lasting intense sensation in the mouth. The end result is remarkable thanks to the aromatic, sapid and well-delineated finality. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Domaine Ninot Rully "La Barre" Blanc 2022 is a bright, organic expression of Chardonnay from the Côte Chalonnaise, crafted by the talented Erell Ninot, who was previously named "Best Young Winemaker" in Burgundy.

A classic partner for poultry in creamy sauces (Blanquette de veau), grilled sea bass, or scallops. It also pairs wonderfully with regional cheeses like Comté or mild Gruyère.
 

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 

Bright soft-hued ruby. Delicately fruity on the nose reminiscent of cherry and toasted almonds, juicy on the palate, extremely “quaffable” and elegant on the
finish.

Memo Summary Notes

The Manincor "der Keil" Lago di Caldaro 2023 is a benchmark example of Schiava (also known as Vernatsch) from South Tyrol (Alto Adige), Italy. Produced by the Manincor estate—a leader in biodynamic and organic viticulture—this wine is sourced from the historical "der Keil" vineyard (a monopole), where old vines overlook the Lake of Kaltern.

It is often described as the perfect "bridge" wine for those who enjoy the elegance of Pinot Noir but want the crunchy, spicy character of northern Italy.

• Traditional Pairing: South Tyrolean Speck (cured ham) and local cheeses.

• Modern Pairing: It is one of the few reds that pairs beautifully with fried fish, tomato-based pasta, or even Cantonese cuisine.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The 2023 vintage is receiving high praise for its focus and "crunchy" fruit:

• Decanter: 92 Points – "A lightly edgy nose of nutmeg-dusted red fruit... fleshy, balanced palate with juicy raspberry."

• Wine Enthusiast: 91 Points – "Tart cranberries, pomegranate, and red apple skin... delivers a fresh, lively wine with a peppery edge."

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

The Tasting Panel — 94 Points (Ruth Tobias, Nov. 2025) | The balance between fresh sensations of pear and star fruit with richer tones of toffee and gardenia is striking in this supple and very pretty wine, whose lilting acidity washes gently over touches of vanilla and hazelnut. There’s a timelessness to its profile.

Wine Spectator — 92 Points (MaryAnn Worobiec, Nov. 2025) | Pure and succulent, with fleshy peach, apricot and melon notes highlighted by vibrant acidity. Accents of apple pastry, pineapple and Himalayan sea salt linger, as do lemon verbena and sweetgrass aromatics.

Winemaker's Notes

Anderson Valley sits in the lush coastal region of Mendocino County, 110 miles northwest of San Francisco. Only 15 miles long, this cool, fog-kissed valley — framed by rolling hills and redwood forests — is one of California's most distinctive growing regions. Merry Edwards blends grapes from multiple sites within the valley to capture its full range of terroir, resulting in a fresh, vibrant, and bright Chardonnay.

The nose is filled with tangerine and gardenia, leading to a clean, crisp entry with white orchard fruit, caramel apple, lemon meringue, almonds, and nutty oak. The finish is long and warm, with a hint of apple pie.

Pairing Suggestions

Seafood of many types pairs beautifully with this fresh and bright Chardonnay. We suggest Merry’s recipe for Lobster Risotto with Creamy Tomato Sauce — the wine’s bright acidity complements the rich sauce and sweet poached lobster perfectly.

• Winery: Merry Edwards
• Appellation: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Farming: Organic
• Style: Fresh, vibrant, full-bodied
• Pairings: Lobster, seafood, creamy pasta, light poultry

Winemaker Description 

GRAPES: Cinsault (100%). 

Cinsault has been farmed in the Bekaa Valley since the mid-19th century before ceding the way to new imported varieties. In 2014, Domaine des Tourelles decided to revive this grape by searching out very old Cinsault vines, over 50 years of age, and fermenting the wines in concrete tanks using wild yeasts and nothing else to offer the purest expression of that grape. The result is a supple wine that beautifully reflects the terroir of the Bekaa Valley, with an aging potential of several years.

Published by Jancis Robinson

There is not much I can say about Bekaa-born Faouzi Issa co-owner and winemaker of Domaine des Tourelles in the Bekaa Valley, that has not already been said by Jancis and Tam but in a week in which Lebanon has again been in the news because of death and destruction, I wanted to celebrate the life that continues to be created every year at Domaine des Tourelles in the most challenging circumstances imaginable. (See Michael Karam’s Lessons in wine-region survival.)

Issa told me on Wednesday that the nearest pager explosion to them was 1 km away from the winery.

In 2018, the year Domaine des Tourelles celebrated its 150th anniversary, Jancis’s articles Lebanon and the new Serge Hochar? and Lebanon’s oldest winery told of Issa’s journey into wine, via Bordeaux’s Château Margaux and René Rostaing in the Rhône, as well as giving a brief history of Domaine des Tourelles, Lebanese wine more generally and the arrival of Cinsault in the country in the 19th century along with Carignan and Grenache.

Tam continued the story in 2022 in more personal terms in Old-vine wines – part 1 Lebanon, describing Issa as ‘that mesmeric combination of scientist, engineer and romantic’, at the same time highlighting Issa’s commitment to old vines.

The first vintage of this wine was 2014, which was when Issa realised that the old vines offered something special and deserved to be bottled separately (they now have four wines in their Old Vine Collection). He explains, ‘Cinsault has been farmed in the Bekaa Valley since the mid 19th century before ceding the way to new imported varieties.’ For many a year, it was the most widely planted variety in the country but it is now much less popular than it once was.

Memo Serving Suggestions

Food Pairings: The perfect match for Levantine and Mediterranean cuisine. It pairs excellently with lamb chops, beef tagine, grilled vegetables (ratatouille), or a classic Mezze platter.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) is a good bit lighter and brighter than last year, unsurprising given the conditions of this long, cool growing season. Layers of rose petal, sweet black cherry, asphalt, crushed rocks and blood orange unfurl in a nicely focused, elegant wine with sweet tannins and a sexy finish.

James Suckling 92 Points | A racy beam of acidity runs through raspberries, cranberries and red cherries. That mouthwatering fruit is wrapped up in anise, grilled sage and tilled earth. Balanced, rich and full of life. Drink or hold.

Crafted from a 20-hour maceration of Pinot Noir grapes, each parcel is vinified separately in stainless steel and epoxy-lined tanks. The wine is bottled according to the lunar calendar and undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, preserving the unique characteristics of each terroir.

This meticulous approach highlights the natural expression of the Meunier grape, resulting in a fresh, vibrant rosé with nuanced red fruit, subtle spice, and floral notes. The wine balances elegance with intensity, offering a complex, layered palate and a delicate, persistent mousse.

Perfect for festive occasions, it pairs beautifully with seafood, charcuterie, or light poultry dishes, making it a standout choice for holiday celebrations or special gatherings.

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir (Saignée method)
Country: France – Champagne

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.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The young, creamy and juicy 2019 Petra is pure Garnacha that fermented in concrete with indigenous yeasts and matured in well-seasoned, neutral oak barrels for 15 months, including malolactic. There is a lactic touch and some notes of cereals here that interferes a bit with the purity of Garnacha. It's medium-bodied and has moderate ripeness at 13.5% alcohol, revealing good freshness and acidity and a pH of 3.6.

The Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | Deep garnet in color, this single-varietal Garnacha has a nose of black cherry, caramel and nutmeg. Bright fruit and soft baking spice flavors wrapped in silky tannins enliven the palate and drift into a cranberry and orange-zest finish.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2019 Petra de Valpiedra is 100% Garnacha sourced from a single vineyard next to the Ebro River, in the Cenicero area of Rioja Alta. Aged for 1nine months in American and French oak barrels, it displays a garnet hue and presents aromas reminiscent of liqueur, with hints of herbs and ash overlaying a fruit layer. On the palate, it is dry and edgy, with tannins that are fairly searing, leaving a lingering impression of balsamic notes.

James Suckling 92 Points | Aromas of baked raspberries and strawberries with spicy and earthy touches. Medium- to full-bodied with powdery tannins and a soft texture. Firm finish. Drink or hold.

Memo Summary Notes

The Finca Valpiedra Rioja Garnacha Petra de Valpiedra 2019 is a highly praised, single-varietal Garnacha (Grenache) from the Rioja Alta sub-region. It is part of a premium, limited-edition line from the respected Finca Valpiedra winery.

The 2019 vintage is noted for combining the power of Garnacha with great freshness and elegance, making it an excellent example of modern, high-quality Rioja.

The wine's silky texture and savory complexity make it versatile:

• Meat: Grilled lamb, roast duck, or white meats such as turkey and pheasant.

• Spanish Classics: Aged Manchego cheese.

• Other: Fish stews (like tuna marmitako), rice dishes, and mushroom risotto.

The Finca Valpiedra Rioja Garnacha Petra de Valpiedra 2019 is an outstanding example of premium, single-vineyard Garnacha from Rioja, praised for its elegance, freshness, and complexity.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

James Suckling 92 Points | Restrained and ambitiously structured, showing some roasted coffee beans, pine cones and sweet spices to the rich blackberries and cherries. Juicy and chewy on the palate with fine-grained tannins and a tight, lengthy finish. Drink from 2025.

Decanter 91 Points | Plummy fruit on the nose, with smoky bacon fat nuances and jammy fruit notes. Powerful and textural, long and pleasant.

Expert Reviews - VIntage 2022 

A deep ruby/magenta color, the 2022 Il Pino Di Biserno starts to show more mineral-inflected notes of graphite, preserved strawberries, blackberries, cocoa, and sweet herbs. Full-bodied, the palate expands with ripe tannins, even acidity, and darker mineral undercurrents, as well as a hint of gamey richness and notes of tea leaf through the mid-palate and rather long finish. Hold this one another couple of years and drink 2027-2040.: Audrey Frick - Jeb Dunnuck - 94 Points

A cedary twist to the typical notes of black olives, tobacco, paprika and black fruit. Medium- to full-bodied with prominent, fine-grained tannins and fruit. Long, demure and tight. Needs at least one more year to soften and open up. Drink from 2026."  Zekun Shuai - James-Suckling - 94 Points

The Tenuta di Biserno 2022 Il Pino di Biserno delivers a ripe fruit profile with blackberry confit and sweet cherry pie. Those warm vintage tones are followed by an ample use of oak that adds baking spice and toasted nutmeg. There is a hint of campfire ash or something blackened or toasted at the core of this full-bodied Tuscan blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Verdot. I pick up a note of dryness on the otherwise velvety tannins. Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate - 92 Points

Jezreel Valley Winery Alfa — Lower Galilee, Israel 2024

The Alfa is Jezreel Valley Winery's bold statement from the fertile Jezreel Valley in Lower Galilee — one of Israel's most talked-about boutique producers, based on Kibbutz Hanaton. A blend of Syrah, Argaman, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the Alfa is built for intensity and depth while remaining true to the Mediterranean terroir that defines this region. Jezreel has earned strong scores from critics including James Suckling and Decanter, and has become a fixture in top restaurants both domestically and internationally. At $24.99, it delivers excellent quality for the price. Kosher.

Bruised blackberry and cassis open on the nose alongside tangy red cherry and strawberry. On the palate, red fruit shines with velvety, persistent tannins that lay the groundwork for a long, satisfying finish. Rich, structured, and unmistakably Mediterranean — this is a wine that craves the table.

“Bruised blackberry and cassis aromas open on the nose along with tangy red cherry and strawberry. Red fruit shines on the palate while velvety, persistent tannins lay the groundwork for the long finish.” — Reggie Solomon, The Wine Enthusiast 91 Points (Prior Vintage - 2021).

• Producer: Jezreel Valley Winery, Kibbutz Hanaton, Lower Galilee, Israel
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Galilee, Israel
• Blend: Syrah, Argaman, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Certification: Kosher
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, cassis, red cherry, strawberry, velvety tannins, long finish
• Best Paired With: Steak, grilled meats, roasted mushrooms, lamb, hearty Mediterranean dishes

Bold, structured, and exceptional value — Jezreel's Alfa is the benchmark for what ambitious Kosher Israeli red wine can be.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 97 Points | So pretty, charming and elegant, with floral aromas, light tannins and quiet vibrancy. Fresh raspberries, sour cherries, red cherries, rose petals and minerals give it complexity and appeal. Finesse, nerve and great balance. Drink now or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | A bright red color, the 2023 Pinot Noir Roserock Zephirine offers focused and expressive notes of wild raspberries, framboise, rosy perfume, and sweet herbs. Medium-bodied, it has ripe tannins and an approachable feel, with its underlying mineral focus shining through the midpalate and finish. It’s delicious now but will only improve over the next 6-7 years and drink well over the coming 15 years.

Vinous 93 Points | The 2023 Pinot Noir Zéphirine wafts up with an understated blend of dried flowers, spiced citrus and wild strawberries. A stern mineral core and brisk acidity enliven the tart wild berry fruits. Youthful tension pinches at the cheeks, leaving angular tannins and admirable freshness.

Winemaker Description 

Bright wine with good herb and fruit intensity across the palate. Notes of boxwood, coriander, and tomato leaf with richer tropical fruits framed by citrus lime. Fresh, bright finish.

Enjoy on its own or with an array of appetizers, soft cheeses, grilled fish and seasonal salads.

Bodegas Portia is Grupo Faustino’s most recent winery project and is the 7th winery in the group. Located in the heart of Ribera del Duero, the Portia winery is a display of modern design, winemaking function and artistic detail. The brand offers very small production wines - intense, energetic & balanced. 

Harvesting at night allows the grapes to maintain all of their organoleptic qualities, as well as a balance between alcohol content and acidity. Once in the winery, the grapes are cold-macerated for a few hours before being pressed. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at a low temperature to maintain all the characteristics of the best Verdejo white wine.

Winemaker Description 

Fruit aromas follow into the palate with a fresh acidity balanced by a lot of baking spices and a chalky tannin structure. The finish is long and smoky with a note of black pepper.

Schloss Lieser | Riesling Niederberg Helden Feinherb 2021 | Mosel, Germany

Thomas Haag's Niederberg Helden is one of the Mosel's most storied steep-slope sites — a south-facing amphitheater of blue Devonian slate just east of the village of Lieser. The slate imparts a signature mineral grip and cool-climate tension that defines this wine's character.

Feinherb is the winemaker's own style: poised between dry and semi-sweet, it is built for the table — the gentle residual sweetness cuts through spice, while the electric acidity stands up to rich, savory dishes.

The 2021 vintage was a cooler, more classic year in the Mosel, producing wines of exceptional energy and precision. This bottling delivers intense wild herb, crisp pear, and white peach on a sleek, compact frame, with a stony mineral undertow and impressive length. Drink now or cellar with confidence.

Tasting Notes - Vintage 2021

James Suckling — 94 Points: The intense wild herb character gives this sleek and compact 2021 Mosel a very striking personality. Lots of crisp pear and white peach fruit fill this picture out neatly. The impressive length suggests this has many years ahead of it. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Aleks Zecevic): Well tuned and flowing with grace, this wine delivers notes of understated passion fruit and kumquat. A stony undertow adds to the charm and complexity. Not a blockbuster — for those who value nuance and subtlety.

Technical Details

Variety: Riesling  |  Vineyard: Niederberg Helden  |  Region: Mosel, Germany  |  Soil: Blue Devonian Slate  |  Fermentation: Stainless Steel  |  Size: 750ml

Winemaker Description 

The wine has been crafted from grapes cultivated at La Planta estate, owned by Arzuaga Navarro’s family in Quintanilla de Onésimo, the heart of Ribera del Duero. The soil is clay-calcareous and the subsoil is pure limestone at one meter under the surface. The vineyard altitude is 911 meters above sea level. These specific conditions provide distinct features of the wine.

The wine boasts a deep violet red color. Clean and bright with a range of red fruits (raspberry and cherry) that dominate with a high aromatic intensity, joined by balsamic, cacao, coffee, and roasted tones. Fresh, elegant, easy, and balanced in the mouth with a lightly sweet, toasted, and pleasant aftertaste.

Winemake Description 

Dry, crisp style with great acidity. Sourced from south-western sections of Zeltinger Himelreich, mid-slope and slate grown. Fermented in neutral fuder. Recognizable Pinot Blanc flavors but with the mineral energy of slate.

Importer Memo Notes

Variety: Pinot Blanc • Region: Mosel • Vineyard: Almost entirely from Zeltinger Himmelreich • Soil Type: Blue Devonian slate • Fermentation & Élevage: Natural fermentation in stainless steel.

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 2022

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Distinctive in a very good way, this chooses savory elegance over power. A refreshing and mineral-driven style, with appealing pepper, spice box and chestnut, all surrounding a core of red currant threaded with a stream of herbs. With warm earth on the seductively textured palate, this shows good energy and harmony through the vibrant finish, marked by iron and smoked meat. Well-done. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2032. 2,464 cases imported.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Télégramme kicks off with crushed violets, ripe raspberry, wild strawberry and a pinch of dried herbs. Leafy gradations add more complexity. Round and elegant, the full-bodied 2022 walks off the stage with persistence on the juicy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | The only wine produced in the vintage due to the devastating tornado just before the harvest, the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Télégramme seems to be a mix of a normal Vieux Télégraphe and a Télégramme. Black raspberries, darker cherries, peppery garrigue, and a Grand Vin sense of salty minerality define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied on the palate, has rock-solid ripeness, plenty of tannins, and outstanding length.

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | A blend of 85% Grenache and the rest of Cinsault, Syrah and Mourvèdre, the 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Télégramme offers up aromas of flowers, dark cherries and dark wild berries, followed by a medium to full-bodied, structured and concentrated palate with velvety tannins and a long, dense finish.

James Suckling 92 Points | An elegant expression of grenache in Chateauneuf, this has a wealth of red berries and summer flowers. The very solid tannins have been expertly crafted, and they build beautifully in the long finish. Considering how the vineyards were hit by hail just before the harvest, this has turned out very well.