$25 - $50 Wine

Cloudy Bay · Sauvignon Blanc · Marlborough · 2025

In 1985, Cloudy Bay planted vines in Marlborough and changed the world’s understanding of what Sauvignon Blanc could be. Before Cloudy Bay, New Zealand was a footnote in the global wine conversation. After it, Marlborough became a benchmark — a name synonymous with cool-climate precision, electric aromatics, and a style of white wine that no other region on earth replicates quite the same way. Four decades on, the estate remains the standard-bearer: sourcing from across Marlborough’s diverse sub-regions, blending with meticulous care, and bottling under screwcap to preserve every last molecule of freshness. WN:93. At $28.89, this is the iconic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc — and one of the best values at this level of pedigree.

The 2025 is open and expressive from the first pour: peach, elderflower, makrut lime, and gooseberry on the nose, with a herbal lift and sea salt minerality that is unmistakably Marlborough. On the palate: bright lemon, white nectarine, and passionfruit, framed by refreshing acidity and a clean, steel-cut citrus finish with real precision and length. Drink now through 2027.

“Highly aromatic, with elderflower, citrus, and passionfruit. Crisp, textural, and elegant — a benchmark expression of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.”
— Wineanorak, 93 Points. (Vintage 2025). 

"Concentrated and fragrant, with lemongrass, lemon verbena and celery salt notes to complement the pineapple, mango and lemon curd flavors, backed by a touch of orange sherbet. Gains momentum on the long, expressive finish." - The Wine Spectator, 93 Points. (Vintage 2025). 

"The 2025 Sauvignon Blanc is fleshy and intense, as is the style of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, and there is enough savory extract and shape in the wine to elevate it beyond the norm. Here, we have grass clippings and brine, green olive tapenade, passion fruit and pineapple husk. The acidity is saline, and all elements work together toward a common goal. I recall, in context, this wine looking a little sweeter and fleshier than some of its regional peers, and yet here today in isolation, it looks tight, textural and composed. It's very good indeed. Cloudy Bay is a member of the Appellation Marlborough Wine (AMW). 13% alcohol." - The Wine Advocate, 94 Points. (Vintage 2025). 

"Vivid, round and juicy, with lemons, limes, fresh herbs and some mild spices on the nose, following through to a medium body with fresh acidity. Lively and succulent, with a delicious finish packed with limes. - James Suckling, 92 Points. (Vintage 2025). 

• Producer: Cloudy Bay (est. 1985)
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
• Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, elderflower, makrut lime, gooseberry, white nectarine, passionfruit, sea salt minerality, clean citrus finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Food Pairings: Oysters, sashimi, steamed mussels, grilled prawns, goat cheese, herb-crusted fish, lemon pasta

WN:93 — the wine that put Marlborough on the map, still setting the standard 40 years on.

Jean Marc Brocard Chablis Sainte Claire Biodynamic — Chablis, Burgundy 2024

Jean Marc Brocard is one of Chablis' most respected and forward-thinking producers, farming biodynamically across his estate to honor the region's singular Kimmeridgian limestone terroir. Chablis is the northernmost appellation of Burgundy — a place where Chardonnay expresses itself with a precision, purity, and mineral tension found nowhere else in the world. The Sainte Claire is Brocard's entry point into the appellation and a benchmark for what classic Chablis should be: 100% Chardonnay, hand-harvested, naturally fermented with minimal intervention, and vinified without synthetic inputs. Nothing added, nothing taken away — just the wine and its terroir.

The 2024 pours a pale gold with green reflections. The nose opens with lemon, yellow stone fruit, and fresh citrus — clean, precise, and inviting. On the palate, it's wrapped and balanced with a tangy, layered character: Kimmeridgian minerality, crisp acidity, and a clean saline finish that makes it one of the most food-friendly whites in the shop. Serve well chilled and let the terroir do the talking.

"Farming biodynamically to honor the region's singular limestone terroir — hand-harvested, naturally fermented, minimal intervention. The result is a wine that speaks directly of its terroir." — Jean Marc Brocard

• Producer: Jean Marc Brocard, Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chablis AOC
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic; hand-harvested; no synthetic inputs
• Vinification: Natural fermentation, minimal intervention
• Terroir: Kimmeridgian limestone
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, yellow stone fruit, citrus, Kimmeridgian minerality, crisp acidity, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, clams, grilled sole, plateau de fruits de mer, goat cheese, leek tart, roast chicken with lemon

Classic Chablis from one of the appellation's most committed biodynamic producers — Kimmeridgian limestone, natural fermentation, and the kind of saline precision that makes it irresistible with a glass of oysters.

Antinori Il Bruciato Tenuta Guado al Tasso — Bolgheri 2024

The Antinori family has been making wine in Tuscany for over 600 years, and Tenuta Guado al Tasso is their crown jewel on the Bolgheri coast — situated near the birthplace of the Super Tuscan movement, where the moderating influence of the Tyrrhenian Sea produces wines of remarkable freshness, structure, and Mediterranean character. Il Bruciato is the estate’s second wine: a Cabernet Sauvignon-led Bordeaux blend that delivers the elegance and complexity of the appellation at an approachable price point. One of Italy’s most consistent and beloved Super Tuscans, and an outstanding value from one of Tuscany’s greatest estates.

The 2024 vintage shows an intense, deep ruby color. The nose is expressive and detailed: ripe blackberry, dark cherry, cassis, wildflowers, thyme, sweet spice, and a lifted hint of liquorice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with polished tannins, a rounded chocolate-tinged texture, fresh coastal acidity, and a long, savory, fruit-driven finish with umami depth. Approachable now, with the structure to develop further over 3–5 years.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 — “Expressive and detailed, with aromas of wildflowers, thyme, ripe cherry, and subtle gamey earthiness. Rounded, chocolate-tinged texture balanced by refreshing acidity. Polished and approachable.”

Wine Advocate 90 — “Ripe, chewy darkness with thick flavors of plummy fruit, blackberry and a savory note reminiscent of tomatoes on the vine. Soft in texture with a medium- to full-bodied mouthfeel and a gentle dustiness from fully-integrated tannins.”

67 Wine — “Il Bruciato is the benchmark entry into the world of Bolgheri — the elegance and complexity of a great Super Tuscan estate at a price that makes it an everyday pleasure.”

• Producer: Marchesi Antinori, Tenuta Guado al Tasso, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Bolgheri DOC
• Blend: 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 18% Merlot, 8% Syrah, 7% Petit Verdot
• Style: Super Tuscan
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, dark cherry, cassis, wildflowers, thyme, sweet spice, liquorice, chocolate, savory umami finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Serve: 64–68°F
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, lamb chops, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino, hearty pasta

Six centuries of Antinori mastery, one exceptional Bolgheri estate — Il Bruciato is the Super Tuscan that belongs on every table.

Rombauer Vineyards | Chardonnay | Carneros, Napa Valley | 2024 | 750ml

Few California Chardonnays have achieved what Rombauer has: a style so consistent, so immediately recognizable, and so genuinely crowd-pleasing that it has become a benchmark in its own right. The Carneros bottling is the house's flagship — a wine that delivers ripe fruit intensity, creamy texture, and the signature bright acidity that keeps it from ever feeling heavy.

The 2024 vintage benefited from good winter rain, a moderate spring, and warm September spells that brought optimal ripeness while preserving structure. Sustainable farming throughout, with block-by-block precision guided by NDVI aerial imaging. The result is a wine that is both generous and focused.

On the nose: yellow peach, ripe melon, and bright citrus. On the palate: creamy vanilla, buttery nuance, and a long finish anchored by Rombauer's hallmark acidity. This is the Chardonnay that earns its reputation every vintage.

The Rombauer family authored the Joy of Cooking — they recommend pairing this with their Chicken Risotto or Strawberry Shortcake. Hard to argue.

• Appellation: Carneros, Napa Valley, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2024
• Farming: Sustainable, NDVI block-by-block management
• Style: Full-bodied, creamy, oak-influenced
• Pairs with: Lobster with drawn butter, Fettuccine Alfredo, crab cakes, chicken risotto, strawberry shortcake

William Fèvre · Chablis Champs Royaux · Chablis AOC · Burgundy · 2024

William Fèvre is one of Chablis’ most storied domaines, farming 37 hectares across the appellation’s most prized exposures on both banks of the Serein river. Champs Royaux — the “Royal Fields” — draws from vineyards rooted in Kimmeridgian limestone, the ancient seabed of oyster fossils and marine sediment that defines Chablis’ signature minerality. Fermented on native yeasts in predominantly stainless steel with full malolactic conversion, this is a textbook expression of the appellation: linear, fresh, and built for the table.

The 2024 opens with a clean, inviting nose of citrus, white fruit, and a whisper of chalk. On the palate, it is fresh and supple — medium-bodied with bright acidity, a subtle mineral thread, and a slightly oaky finish that adds just enough texture without obscuring the wine’s essential freshness. Classic Chablis character at an exceptional price point.

• Producer: William Fèvre
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chablis AOC, Burgundy, France
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Soils: Kimmeridgian limestone (oyster fossils & marine sediment)
• Vinification: Native yeasts; 95% stainless steel, 5% old French oak; full malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 10–12 months stainless steel; 5–6 months old French oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, white fruit, crushed chalk, subtle oak, linear mineral finish
• Pairings: Oysters, grilled seafood, chicken in cream sauce, soft cheeses
• Serve: Well-chilled, 44–48°F

Chablis AOC — Kimmeridgian minerality and classic Burgundian precision from one of the appellation’s benchmark estates.

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia — Toscana IGT 2023

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia is the approachable entry point into the world of Tenuta dell’Ornellaia — one of Tuscany’s most celebrated estates and a cornerstone of the Bolgheri appellation — and the 2023 vintage is its most joyful and expressive release in years. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, raised in used Ornellaia barriques and concrete for around 10 months, this wine captures the estate’s signature elegance and precision in a bottle built for early enjoyment without sacrificing depth or character. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 93 points, calling it “very elegant with a joyful ease.”

The nose is fruity and fresh: candied flowers, crushed raspberries, red apples, dark cherry compote, and a waft of balsamic herbs with fresh stony earth. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied — silky, crunchy, and vibrant, with a bright streak of raspberry coulis brought together by fresh acidity and a breezy, polished finish. Classy, aromatic, and built to drink beautifully from 2025 through 2035.

Jeb Dunnuck 93 • Decanter 91 • Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 90 — “A total delight. Fresh, aromatic and vibrant — Ornellaia’s blend delivers the goods in an affordable package.”

• Producer: Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot
• Vinification: Aged ~10 months in used Ornellaia barriques and concrete
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Candied flowers, raspberry, red apple, dark cherry, balsamic herbs, stony earth, silky finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2035
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roasted duck, truffle pizza, aged Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano

Elegant, vibrant, and unmistakably Ornellaia — Le Volte is the benchmark for what a Super Tuscan entry point can be.

Château Larose Trintaudon — Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois Supérieur 2019

Château Larose Trintaudon is one of the Haut-Médoc’s most celebrated Cru Bourgeois estates — elevated to Cru Bourgeois Supérieur as of the 2018 vintage, a distinction that reflects the consistent quality and ambition of this property. The 2019 vintage, one of Bordeaux’s finest in a generation, is a textbook expression of understated Médoc elegance: structured, fruit-driven, and built to age.

The nose opens with blueberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry, layered with sweet tobacco, moss, and violet edges. On the palate, the wine is fleshy and full-bodied with chewy, polished tannins, cassis, bitter plum, and a savory, mineral-tinged finish that lingers with chalky precision. Give it two to three years and it will reward handsomely.

James Suckling 93 • Decanter 90 • Wine Spectator

• Producer: Château Larose Trintaudon, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux
• Vintage: 2019
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, Haut-Médoc
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blueberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, tobacco, cassis, chalky minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2023–2032+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, aged hard cheeses

A critically acclaimed Haut-Médoc at a Cru Bourgeois price — one of the best value Bordeaux reds in the cellar.

Winemaker Notes

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

About the Wine

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

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

Tasting & Pairings

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

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

Olivier Leflaive Les Sétilles — Bourgogne Blanc, Burgundy 2023

Olivier Leflaive is one of Burgundy's most respected négociant-éleveurs, founded in 1984 in Puligny-Montrachet by a member of the legendary Leflaive family — one of the most storied names in white Burgundy. The maison specializes in white wines from the Côte de Beaune and is known for sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking. Les Sétilles — named for the small stones found in the vineyards — is the flagship entry-level wine and one of the most consistently praised value Burgundies on the market. While technically labeled as a Bourgogne Blanc, the fruit is sourced primarily from vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault, two of the Côte de Beaune's most celebrated white wine villages. The result is a wine with the DNA of much more expensive village-level Burgundy at a fraction of the price — a genuine insider's choice for those who know.

The nose offers aromas of white flowers, peach, grilled almond, and lemon peel on a mineral-tinged background, with appealing Granny Smith apple and nectarine fruit and a hint of white blossom. The attack is full and warm on the palate, with a surprisingly fresh texture for the vintage — lively acidity driving spicy, bitter citrus through to an elegantly long and lasting finish. Astonishing quality given the volume of production.

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

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

• Producer: Olivier Leflaive, Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Bourgogne Blanc AOC
• Fruit Sources: Puligny-Montrachet & Meursault vineyards
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White flowers, peach, grilled almond, lemon peel, Granny Smith apple, nectarine, mineral, lively acidity, long finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Lobster with drawn butter, seared scallops, grilled fish, roast chicken with tarragon, veal, Brie, aged Comté, light cream pasta

Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault fruit at a Bourgogne Blanc price — Les Sétilles is Burgundy's best-kept secret and one of the great white wine values under $40.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Bart Hopkins, 67Wine
Stephanie Fumoso is the great-granddaughter of Eugène Bonfils, who founded Domaine Gour de Chaulé in 1900. The estate has 10 hectares in the village of Gigondas, planted mainly to Grenache with small percentages of Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. The 2022 Cuvée Tradition is a pure expression of this beautiful part of the Southern Rhône — juicy, herb-infused strawberry fruit on the nose accented with crushed pepper and savory spices. Energetic and lively in the mouth, with a gentle grip of tannins and a lick of acidity on the long, elegant finish. Well balanced and perfectly suited to the dinner table — serve with braised meats, roasted vegetables, and hearty Mediterranean dishes.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

James Suckling — 93 Points
"A refined, chiseled and bright red based mostly on Grenache with the addition of Syrah and Mourvèdre. The nose is precise and charming, with notes of wild strawberries, dried flowers, wet stones, and baking spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Fresh and well-balanced. Beautiful volume. Silky texture with a purity of fruit and a harmonious finish. Drink or hold."

Vinous — 93 Points
"The full-bodied 2022 Gigondas Cuvée Tradition 1871 is a total delight. Succulent red fruits mingle with floral tones and a pinch of dried herbs. Smooth tannins and bright acidity neatly structure this silky-textured Gigondas, which culminates with a concentrated, sapid finish. Give it two more years in bottle to develop even more complexity."

About the Vineyard

Several important vineyard sites form this Gigondas, including Gour de Chaulé, Les Blaches, and Les Bousquets. The Grenache vines average well over a half century in age, contributing the concentration and complexity that defines this cuvée.

Product Details

• Producer: Domaine Gour de Chaulé
• Region: Gigondas AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Blend: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault
• Vine Age: 50+ years
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Full-bodied, structured Southern Rhône red
• Format: 750ml

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | A bright, balanced red, with an aromatic overtone of medicinal herbs and spices accenting flavors of macerated cherry and raspberry fruit, stone, smoke, milled pepper and paprika. Lightly chewy on the finish. Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Drink now through 2033. (Vintage 2023). 

Winemaker Notes

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

Food Pairings

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

Product Details

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

Château Bel-Air Lussac Saint-Émilion 2020 — Bordeaux, France

Château Bel-Air is a benchmark estate in Lussac Saint-Émilion, the satellite appellation just north of Saint-Émilion proper, where clay-limestone soils and a cooler microclimate produce Merlot and Cabernet Franc of remarkable depth and elegance. The 2020 Cuvée Jean & Gabriel — equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, raised in one-third new French oak — is a standout achievement in an exceptional vintage. James Suckling awarded it 92 points; the Wine Advocate 91; Jeb Dunnuck 90 — calling it “well worth seeking out” with 8–10 years of prime drinking ahead.

The nose is complex and inviting: crushed raspberries and blackberries, kirsch, lavender, dark spices, and a whisper of wild mushroom and damp earth. On the palate it is medium- to full-bodied, with savory layers of red and black fruit, soft tannins, and a seamless, balanced finish of outstanding length.

James Suckling 92 • Wine Advocate 91 • Jeb Dunnuck 90 — “Seamless, balanced mouthfeel and outstanding length.”

• Producer: Château Bel-Air, Lussac Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Lussac Saint-Émilion AOC
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Franc
• Aging: One-third new French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, kirsch, lavender, dark spice, earthy, seamless finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–10 years
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, beef bourguignon, aged Comté, mushroom risotto

A 92-point Right Bank Bordeaux at an honest price — Château Bel-Air is the benchmark for what Lussac Saint-Émilion can be.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Bart Hopkins, 67Wine
Blended with small amounts of Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, Oberon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is darkly colored with aromas and flavors of lush blackberries, black cherries, mocha, dark chocolate, and baking spices. Silky sweet tannins lead to a long and delicious finish.

Winemaker Description

To create this Cabernet Sauvignon, Oberon sourced grapes from throughout Napa’s finest winegrowing regions — including Oakville, Oak Knoll, Yountville, Suscol Ridge, Chiles Valley, Pope Valley, and Capell Valley. By layering fruit from Napa’s sparse volcanic soils and the deeper alluvial soils of the valley floor, Oberon married many different expressions into one outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon with a beautifully seamless mouthfeel and rich, complex texture.

The 2023 vintage in Napa was characterized by an exceptionally long, cool growing season, resulting in highly concentrated fruit and a more elegant balance than the hotter preceding years.

Food Pairings

A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, duck breast with berry reduction, roasted mushrooms, and aged hard cheeses.

Product Details

• Producer: Oberon (Michael Mondavi Family)
• Winemaker: Tony Coltrin
• Region: Napa Valley, California
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, seamless, fruit-forward Napa Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Educated Guess Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2023

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon at this price is a rare find — and Educated Guess makes a compelling case that you don’t have to spend a fortune to drink well from one of the world’s greatest wine regions. The 2023 vintage is bright, structured, and built for the table.

The nose is spiced and cedary, with dark cherry, ripe plum, hints of cigar box, and a whisper of wet earth. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and chewy with a lightly austere, bitter-spice character balanced by juicy, fruit-forward depth. Petite Sirah contributes beautiful color and spice, while splashes of Petit Verdot and Malbec round out the mouthwatering finish.

“Full-bodied and chewy with juicy fruit underneath.” — James Suckling, 90 Points

• Producer: Educated Guess, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Malbec
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, plum, cedar, cigar box, wet earth, bitter spice
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, lamb chops, aged cheddar, braised short ribs

A crowd-pleasing Napa Cab with genuine structure and complexity — an educated choice for any occasion.

  Frank Family Vineyards Chardonnay Napa Valley 2024 — Carneros, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards is one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated estates, founded in 1992 by Rich Frank — former president of Disney Studios — with a singular focus on producing benchmark Napa wines. Their Carneros Chardonnay is a perennial critical favorite, sourced from one of Napa Valley’s most prized appellations for the variety. Carneros, situated at the southern end of the valley just north of San Pablo Bay, is defined by cool maritime breezes, morning fog, and clay-rich soils that produce Chardonnay of exceptional balance between richness and acidity.

The 2024 leads with zesty lemon and guava aromas tempered by notes of vanilla and caramel-covered apples. On the palate, delicious layers of nutmeg and crème brûlée seamlessly combine with hints of toasted oak and elegant waves of fresh acidity, leading to a bright, lingering finish. James Suckling awarded it 92 points, calling it “a very generous, luscious and focused Chardonnay — well made, poised and stylish.”

James Suckling 92 — “A very generous, luscious and focused Chardonnay with a good core of fruit and spices, bright acidity and a textural, rounded mouthfeel.”

• Producer: Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, Napa Valley (est. 1992)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA (Carneros)
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, guava, vanilla, caramel apple, nutmeg, crème brûlée, toasted oak, bright acidity, lingering finish
• Best Paired With: Roasted chicken, lobster, crab, creamy pasta, brie, light butter and cream sauces

Carneros Chardonnay at its most poised — Frank Family delivers richness, elegance, and Napa Valley terroir in every glass.

Winemaker Description

Gérard Boulay's "terre blanche" vineyards in Chavignol produce some of the most distinctive and soil-inflected Sauvignon Blancs in the Loire Valley — wines with a delineation and minerality. Boulay stands among the appellation's finest producers, alongside neighbors Cotat and Vatan.

Tasting Notes

Precise and mineral-driven, with the hallmark flinty character of Chavignol's limestone soils. Expect citrus, white stone fruit, and a long, saline finish with exceptional tension and length.

Food Pairings

The classic match is Crottin de Chavignol goat cheese — a pairing rooted in the same village. Also excellent with fresh oysters, grilled seafood, arugula salad, roasted peppers, and lemon chicken.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2024
Region: Sancerre, Loire Valley, France
Village: Chavignol
Appellation: Sancerre AOC
Grape Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Style: White Wine

Gérard Boulay | Sancerre AOC, Loire Valley, France | Rosé | Organic | 2025

Made from 35–40 year old Pinot Noir vines on the steep clay hillsides of Chavignol — the village many consider the finest terroir in all of Sancerre — Boulay's Sibylle Rosé is one of the Loire's most sought-after small-production pours. Only 200 cases are made annually. Gérard harvests his Pinot specifically for rosé by direct press into tank, adds no commercial yeast, and uses minimal SO2, letting the vintage and the land speak for themselves. What makes the rosé one year could make red another — a true expression of place and season.

"One of our favorite recommendations for the past three years. Balanced between juiciness and acidity, with obvious red berry notes — certain to make your mouth water." — Bart Hopkins, 67 Wine Buyer

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Vines: 35–40 years, Chavignol
Soils: Steep clay hillside
Farming: Organic (practicing)
Vinification: Direct press, tank fermented, no added yeast, minimal SO2
Production: ~200 cases annually
Drink: Now–2027

Tasting Notes

• Fresh red berries, strawberry, and subtle floral notes
• Juicy, mouth-watering palate with bright Sancerre acidity
• Crisp, clean finish | Mineral backbone | Elegant and precise

Pairings: Grilled salmon, goat cheese, charcuterie, light summer dishes, oysters

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2022

94 pts — James Suckling
Bright and overtly fruity, this is full of intoxicating violets, cinnamon, blood oranges and black cherries, expressing mint and balsamic depth. Full-bodied with a soft, smooth attack, dusty yet velvety tannins and brilliant acidity. The chocolaty finish shows licorice and a mouth-coating texture. Delicious and balanced. Drink or hold.

93 pts — Vinous
The 2022 Barbaresco is a pretty rich, heady wine. Dark cherry/plum fruit, cloves, licorice and mocha build as the 2022 shows off its considerable depth. One of the few 2022s that is quite resonant texturally. The inclusion of some juice from Riserva lots is a great help. All things considered, this is a stellar showing.

92 pts — Jeb Dunnuck
Jeweled red color with aromas of ripe raspberry liqueur, fresh cherries, sweet herbs, and pressed flowers. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins and a clean, even finish. Juicy and approachable. Drink 2025–2040.

Winemaker Notes

Classic Barbaresco color with scents of spices, pepper, and black cherries. Powerful, firm, elegant, and ethereal.

About Produttori del Barbaresco

Founded in 1958, Produttori del Barbaresco is one of Italy's most revered wine cooperatives — and the benchmark producer for Barbaresco DOCG. The cooperative unites growers from the finest crus in the Barbaresco commune: Asili, Rabajà, Montefico, Montestefano, Ovello, Pora, and Rio Sordo. Under winemaker Aldo Vacca, Produttori remains committed to traditional Nebbiolo winemaking — long macerations, large Slavonian oak casks, and minimal intervention — producing wines of extraordinary purity, terroir expression, and age-worthiness at prices that consistently over-deliver.

Food Pairings

Fresh pasta with truffles or ragù, braised lamb, roasted game birds, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, and Barolo-braised short ribs. Cellar through 2040 or decant 2–3 hours before serving now.

Product Details

• Producer: Produttori del Barbaresco
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Vintage: 2022
• Aging: Large Slavonian oak casks
• Style: Full-bodied, structured, age-worthy
• Drink: Now–2040 (decant 2–3 hours)
• Format: 750ml

Simonnet-Febvre Chablis 2023 | Chardonnay | Chablis, Burgundy | 750ml

Simonnet-Febvre is one of Chablis' oldest and most respected négociants, with roots going back to 1840. Their Chablis is a benchmark expression of the appellation — unoaked, precise, and unmistakably mineral, shaped by the region's famous Kimmeridgian limestone soils packed with ancient marine fossils. This is Chardonnay stripped of all artifice: no oak, no butter, no softening. Just the pure, stony soul of Chablis.

The 2023 vintage opens with a lovely golden shimmer and green reflections. The nose is rich and complex — subtle floral notes, white peach, yellow plum, and that signature mineral undercurrent that only Chablis can deliver. On the palate, it's structured and harmonious, with bright acidity, chardonnay-typical fruit, and an excellent aromatic persistence through the finish.

Wine Spectator 89 Points — "An elegant style, this white evokes white peach, yellow plum and floral aromas and flavors, with fine harmony and expression. Approachable now, leaving a fresh, appealing finish."

• Appellation: Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Unoaked, mineral-driven white
• Score: Wine Spectator 89 pts
• Best With: Oysters, shellfish, grilled fish, goat cheese, sushi

Critical Acclaim

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
"This cru bourgeois estate has produced a generously rich wine. Dense tannins and balanced acidity come from a texture that offers dusty tannins and ripe blackberry fruits. Drink from 2021."

Winemaker Description

Deep red berry aromas underscored by black pepper, crushed herbs, and licorice. Lean and elegant on the palate with lovely red currant flavors, very fine tannins, a pleasingly chewy texture, and spice on the finish.

Primary Varietals - Cabernet Sauvignon with some Merlot, Cabernet Franc

About Château Haut Queyran

Château Haut Queyran is a Cru Bourgeois estate in the Médoc appellation of Bordeaux, producing structured, terroir-driven reds from the classic Bordeaux varieties — Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The Cru Bourgeois classification, reinstated in 2020 after rigorous quality audits, recognizes estates that consistently deliver quality above their price point. At under $30, Haut Queyran represents one of the most compelling value propositions in the Médoc, offering genuine Bordeaux structure and aging potential without the grand cru price tag.

Food Pairings

Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, duck confit, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses. Decant 30–60 minutes before serving; will continue to develop through 2028.

Product Details

• Producer: Château Haut Queyran
• Appellation: Médoc AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
• Vintage: 2018
• Style: Structured, elegant Bordeaux red
• Drink: Now–2028 (decant 30–60 min)
• Format: 750ml

MacRostie Winery and Vineyards Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2023 — Sonoma Coast, California

MacRostie Winery and Vineyards has been one of Sonoma Coast’s most dedicated Chardonnay producers since 1987, when Steve MacRostie began crafting wines that prioritized site expression over winemaking intervention. The Sonoma Coast AVA — with its cool Pacific-influenced climate, morning fog, and well-drained hillside soils — is one of California’s premier addresses for Chardonnay, producing wines with the kind of natural acidity and aromatic complexity that sets them apart from warmer inland bottlings.

The 2023 opens with beautiful aromas of tropical fruit, melon, and perfumed lemon mingling with hints of slate, wet chalk, and intriguing floral notes of jasmine and orange blossom. On the velvety palate, pineapple and guava give way to layers of stone fruit, Key lime pie, Asian pear, and yellow apple, all flowing to a long, luxurious finish. James Suckling awarded it 90 points, noting “plenty of ripe, succulent fruit on a full body and a smooth, rounded texture.”

James Suckling 90 — “Applesauce, pineapple, brown butter and vanilla bean flavors give ample richness.”

• Producer: MacRostie Winery and Vineyards, Sonoma Coast, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Closure: Screwcap
• Farming: Sustainable
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, melon, lemon, jasmine, orange blossom, pineapple, guava, stone fruit, Key lime, Asian pear, brown butter, vanilla
• Best Paired With: Grilled halibut, lobster bisque, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, crab cakes

Sonoma Coast Chardonnay at its most expressive — MacRostie delivers complexity and elegance at an honest price.

Few wine regions on earth are as singular as Mount Etna. Perched on an active volcano on Sicily's northeastern flank, the vineyards here grow in ancient lava soils at elevations that would be extreme anywhere else in Italy. Benanti is the family that put Etna on the modern wine map — pioneers who recognized the potential of indigenous varieties like Carricante long before the rest of the world caught on. Their Etna Bianco is 100% Carricante, the white grape native to the volcano's eastern slopes, and it is a pure, unfiltered expression of place: bone-dry, lean, and electric, with a stony minerality and saline edge that no other terroir can replicate. Grapefruit, tart orchard fruit, and a whisper of white flowers on the nose; crisp, driving acidity on the palate; and a long, clean finish that lingers with volcanic energy. Serve well chilled and let the mountain do the talking.

• Appellation: Etna Bianco DOC, Sicily, Italy
• Varietal: 100% Carricante
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml
• Style: Bone-dry, high-acid, volcanic white
• Serve: Well chilled, 46–50°F

Benanti  Etna Bianco DOC  2024

Tasting Notes

Grapefruit, saline, stony minerality, and tart orchard fruit. Bone-dry and lean with vivid acidity and a long, clean volcanic finish.

Pairing Suggestions

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

67 Wine Picks

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

La Spinetta Barbera d’Asti Superiore Ca’ di Pian Organic — Piedmont 2023

La Spinetta is one of Piedmont’s most celebrated estates, founded by Giorgio Rivetti in Castagnole delle Lanze. Rivetti is widely credited with modernizing Barbera d’Asti — bringing precision viticulture, organic farming, and meticulous cellar work to a variety long underestimated in the region. Ca’ di Pian, sourced from Castagnole delle Lanze and Costigliole d’Asti, is La Spinetta’s entry-level Barbera — yet it consistently punches well above its price, earning critical acclaim vintage after vintage. The estate farms entirely without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, expressing the purest possible fruit from its Piedmontese terroir.

The 2023 is soft, supple, and immediately captivating. A burst of blueberry, black cherry, morello cherry, spice, lavender, menthol, and chocolate gives the wine tremendous appeal and versatility. Fresh, fruit-forward, and beautifully balanced — an especially fine edition of this beloved cuvée.

“A terrific value… tons of immediacy and sheer appeal.” — Vinous, 90 Points

• Producer: La Spinetta, Castagnole delle Lanze, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOC
• Vineyard: Ca’ di Pian (Castagnole delle Lanze & Costigliole d’Asti)
• Varietal: 100% Barbera
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blueberry, black cherry, morello cherry, spice, lavender, menthol, chocolate
• Best Paired With: Cured meats, soft cheeses, Piedmontese agnolotti, roast veal, grilled meats, mushroom dishes

Giorgio Rivetti’s benchmark Barbera — organic, expressive, and one of Piedmont’s great values under $30.

Jean Loron Château de Mirande Mâcon-Villages — Burgundy 2023

Jean Loron is one of Burgundy’s most respected négociant-éleveurs, with roots in the Mâconnais stretching back generations. The Château de Mirande Mâcon-Villages is a textbook expression of what this southern Burgundy appellation does best — pure, unoaked Chardonnay of genuine depth and freshness, sourced from vines averaging forty years of age. Aged for six months on the lees without any oak contact, the wine develops natural richness, structure, and complexity while preserving the bright, citrus-driven character that defines great Mâcon-Villages. An outstanding value in White Burgundy.

The nose is open and intense: citrus fruits, ripe pear, and a hint of butter. On the palate, it is juicy and full — the forty-year-old vines deliver genuine depth and concentration, while the lees aging adds a creamy, textured mid-palate. The finish is long, crisp, and refreshing, with a clean mineral precision that invites another glass.

67 Wine — “Château de Mirande is the Mâcon-Villages that reminds you why White Burgundy became famous — pure Chardonnay, old vines, and six months on the lees. Unoaked, honest, and delicious.”

• Producer: Jean Loron, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Mâcon-Villages AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vine Age: 40 years average
• Aging: 6 months on lees, unoaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, ripe pear, butter, creamy mid-palate, crisp mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, oysters, roast chicken, goat cheese, creamy pasta, charcuterie

Forty-year-old vines, six months on lees, zero oak — Jean Loron’s Château de Mirande is Mâcon-Villages at its most honest and compelling.

Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta Hinia — Rioja Reserva 2014

Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta is one of Haro's most storied producers, crafting wines in the historic heart of Rioja Alta since 1895. Hinia — named for the fossilized shells found in the vineyard soils, remnants of an ancient sea that once covered the entire region — is a homage to the refined, classic wines that made Haro famous. A traditional Rioja blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo, it was aged for 36 months in American oak with natural alcoholic and malolactic fermentation, producing a wine of genuine complexity and elegance.

Deep cherry red in the glass with an aromatic nose of ripe black fruit, spiced plums, tobacco leaf, balsamic, and a seductive layer of vanilla, caramel, and chocolate from the extended oak aging. On the palate, it is full-bodied with palate-coating tannins, vibrant citrus zest energy, and a long, persistent finish of ripe cherry and vanilla blossom. Balanced, opulent, and built to last.

Wine Enthusiast 93 Points — Elaine Chukan Brown | "Spiced and ripe plums and cherries gain the energy of citrus zest, and the opulence of vanilla blossom and a drizzle of balsamic. Balanced with great persistence for a pleasurable wine." (Vintage 2014).

• Producer: Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta, Haro, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Founded: 1895
• Vintage: 2014
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa (Rioja Alavesa)
• Varietals: Tempranillo, Graciano & Mazuelo
• Aging: 36 months in American oak
• Classification: Reserva
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe black fruit, spiced plum, cherry, tobacco, balsamic, vanilla, caramel, chocolate, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, braised short ribs, Manchego, charcuterie, grilled ribeye, mushroom risotto
• Serve: 60–65°F, decant 30 minutes

93 points from Wine Enthusiast — Hinia is classic Rioja at its most refined: a wine that honors a century of winemaking tradition in Haro.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | Black cherry and plum fruit signals this rich, round red. Boysenberry, eucalyptus and lavender notes chime in as this remains focused on the long finish. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2027. 

Winemaker Description 

The charm of Mongrana does not take long to reveal. Well-defined aromas of ripe fruit, morello cherry, blackberry and blueberry jump out of the glass, anticipating a complex bouquet of kirsch, ivy, and pine needles, enriched by a touch of licorice. On the palate, it offers a juicy, fresh sip with soft tannins. The long finale is savory, with a mineral note that persists in the mouth.

Like the untamed nature of Maremma, Mongrana is vibrant and intense, a charming red wine to drink on its own, or pair easily with a variety of flavors.

Blend: 50% Sangiovese, 25% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon

The world’s most iconic Provence rosé, now in a certified Kosher expression — Whispering Angel from Château d’Esclans is the benchmark by which all modern rosé is measured. Pale, elegant, and endlessly drinkable, it brings the sun-drenched terroir of the Côtes de Provence to your glass with effortless sophistication.

Critical Acclaim

James Suckling — 91 Points
"A silky, seductive and saline Côtes de Provence rosé with aromas of small berries, red currants and salt. It’s medium-bodied, succulent, fresh and playful, with a caressing texture and a vivid, saline finish."

The Wine

Crafted from a classic Provençal blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Rolle (Vermentino), Whispering Angel is the worldwide reference for Provence rosé. Its signature pale blush color draws you in immediately, while the taste profile delivers everything you want: full and lush, bone dry, with a smooth, lingering finish. Highly approachable and enjoyable from mid-day to midnight.

Kosher Certified

This expression of Whispering Angel is fully Kosher certified, making it an exceptional choice for Passover Seders, Shabbat dinners, and any occasion where Kosher wine is required — without any compromise on quality or the iconic Whispering Angel character.

Tasting Profile

Pale salmon-pink with a luminous clarity. The nose is delicate and inviting — small red berries, red currants, fresh citrus, and a distinctive saline minerality. On the palate it’s silky and medium-bodied with bright acidity, a lush, succulent texture, and a vivid, clean finish with a beautiful saline lift. Classic Whispering Angel.

Food Pairings

Serve well-chilled (46–50°F) with grilled fish, seafood, light salads, mezze, roasted chicken, or soft cheeses. Equally at home at a Passover Seder, a summer lunch, or an elegant dinner party. Versatile, crowd-pleasing, and always impressive.

Product Details

• Producer: Château d’Esclans
• Region: Côtes de Provence AOC, Provence, France
• Blend: Grenache, Cinsault, Rolle (Vermentino)
• Certification: Kosher
• Vintage: 2024
• Style: Pale, bone-dry, medium-bodied Provence rosé
• Serve: Well-chilled, 46–50°F
• Format: 750ml

Lucien Crochet Sancerre — Loire Valley 2024

Lucien Crochet is one of Sancerre's most respected family domaines, farming vines across three distinct chalky soil types — caillottes, terres blanches, and silex — that together define the appellation's signature minerality and precision. The 2024 Sancerre is a bright, energetic expression of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc: aromatic, focused, and beautifully balanced. Fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve freshness, it is a textbook Sancerre that over-delivers at its price point.

The nose is pure and inviting: elderflower, lime zest, white peach, and crushed chalk. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with vibrant acidity, a silky mineral texture, and a clean, lingering finish of citrus and stone. It is the kind of wine that disappears fast at the table — equally at home as an aperitif or alongside a full meal.

Bart Hopkins, 67wino.shop — "A bright, energetic Sancerre that drinks beautifully. Excellent aromatic purity and precision with a lovely mélange of citrus and white orchard fruits that mingle with perfectly balanced mineral notes and refreshing acidity. Well rounded and long on the finish."

• Producer: Lucien Crochet, Bué, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sancerre AOC
• Soils: Caillottes, terres blanches & silex (chalky limestone)
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation and aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Elderflower, lime zest, white peach, crushed chalk, citrus, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2029
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, goat cheese, seafood pasta, green salads, vegetarian fare

A benchmark Sancerre from one of the appellation's finest family estates — precise, mineral, and endlessly drinkable.

Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay Napa Valley 2024 — Carneros, Napa Valley

Cakebread Cellars is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates, founded in 1973 with a single Chardonnay — and that first wine set the template for everything that followed.

For over 50 years, Cakebread has been refining its Napa Valley Chardonnay, sourcing exclusively from the Carneros appellation in southern Napa Valley.

Situated just north of San Pablo Bay, Carneros is defined by cool, windswept conditions, Haire Loam clay soils, and the kind of natural tension between fruit richness and acidity that produces benchmark California Chardonnay.

The 2024 vintage benefited from consecutive winters of abundant rainfall that refreshed soil profiles and supported vigorous vine growth, followed by Carneros’ hallmark warm days and cool nights through spring and summer — ideal conditions for steady ripening and acid retention. The result is a wine of exceptional balance and aromatic complexity.

The 2024 opens with aromas of yellow delicious apple, lemon curd, white peach, vanilla bean, jasmine, and crème brûlée. On the palate, layers of fresh citrus, poached pear, and melon unfold, accented by hints of vanilla biscotti. The finish is long and refined, carrying both creamy and mineral textures in perfect harmony. James Suckling praised it for its “nicely balanced” profile with “bright acidity and a zesty, vibrant finish.”

James Suckling — “Nicely balanced, with aromas of lemon confit, crushed stones, pastry, grapefruit and flint. Bright acidity and a zesty, vibrant finish.”

• Producer: Cakebread Cellars, Rutherford, Napa Valley (est. 1973)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Napa Valley (Carneros)
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Apple, lemon curd, white peach, vanilla bean, jasmine, crème brûlée, citrus, pear, melon, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster, grilled halibut, roasted chicken, creamy risotto, soft-ripened cheeses, crab cakes

Fifty years of Napa Chardonnay mastery — Cakebread remains the benchmark.

Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico Estate Organic — Tuscany 2022

Badia a Coltibuono is one of Chianti Classico's most storied estates, with roots stretching back to an 11th-century monastery in Gaiole. Farmed organically and guided by a deep respect for the land, their Estate Chianti Classico is a benchmark expression of Sangiovese — honest, structured, and unmistakably Tuscan. The 2022 vintage delivered excellent concentration with the freshness that defines the appellation at its best.

The wine pours a bright ruby with violet highlights. The nose is layered and inviting: iris, violet, tobacco, black pepper, and marasca cherry. On the palate, it is well-balanced and tightly knit, with crunchy, powdery tannins, juicy acidity, and a clean mineral backbone. The finish is warm and persistent — a wine that rewards both the dinner table and the cellar.

"Aromas of red and dark berries, chocolate, dried flowers and spices, following through to a medium body with crunchy, powdery tannins and juicy acidity. Tense and flavorful with good concentration." — James Suckling, 92 Points

• Producer: Badia a Coltibuono, Gaiole in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Varietal: Sangiovese
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Iris, violet, tobacco, black pepper, marasca cherry, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled bistecca, wild boar ragù, aged pecorino, pappardelle with meat sauce

A 92-point certified organic Chianti Classico from one of Tuscany's most trusted historic estates — structured, soulful, and built to age.

Domaine Gilbert Picq Chablis — Burgundy 2024

Domaine Gilbert Picq is one of Chablis' most respected traditional estates, and a benchmark producer for the appellation's purest, most mineral-driven style. This village-level Chablis is crafted without any oak contact — fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel to let the Kimmeridgian limestone soils speak without interference. The result is quintessential Chablis: steely, focused, and mineral-laden, with the flinty seashell essence that only this corner of Burgundy can produce. Burghound awarded it a Purple Heart Outstanding Top Value distinction.

The nose is precise and inviting: green apple, lemon zest, white flowers, and a signature streak of wet stone and oyster shell. On the palate, it is lean and focused with vibrant acidity, pure Chardonnay fruit, and a long, saline, mineral finish that lingers beautifully. Extremely age-worthy, it rewards patience — but is equally compelling in its vibrant youth.

Burghound — Purple Heart Outstanding Top Value — "Quintessential Chablis with steely focus and mineral precision."

• Producer: Domaine Gilbert Picq, Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chablis AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Soils: Kimmeridgian limestone
• Vinification: Unoaked — stainless steel fermentation and aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, lemon zest, white flowers, wet stone, oyster shell, saline mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2032
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, seafood, fresh goat cheese, sushi

A Burghound Purple Heart Outstanding Top Value — Gilbert Picq's Chablis is the definitive expression of unoaked Burgundian Chardonnay at an honest price.

Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023 — Paso Robles, California

Daou Vineyards is one of Paso Robles’ most ambitious estates, founded by brothers Georges and Daniel Daou on a dramatic hilltop site in the Adelaida District — one of the appellation’s coolest, most limestone-rich growing areas. Since their first vintage, Daou has pursued a singular vision: to produce Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals Napa Valley at a fraction of the price. The 2023 vintage continues that mission with a wine of genuine complexity and cellar-worthy structure.

The 2023 opens with heady aromas of black plum, Zante currant, frankincense, and sage, followed by trailing scents of blackberry, cardamom, and espresso bean with accents of vanilla, saddle leather, and cinnamon toast. On the palate, fine-grained tannins provide structure for rich flavors of black cherry, raspberry, and mulberry, with secondary layers of black olive, sandalwood, and dark chocolate. The finish is velvety and long, with lingering impressions of chocolate-covered cherry, dried herbs, and toasty oak. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points, noting “clean lines of cherry, toasted wood, red flower and a pinch of thyme.”

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “The palate pairs familiar blackberry flavors with mocha spice. A satisfying, widely available bottling.”

• Producer: Daou Vineyards, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Paso Robles AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black plum, Zante currant, blackberry, cardamom, espresso, vanilla, dark chocolate, saddle leather, velvety finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, rich pasta, aged cheddar, hearty roasts — serve at 60–65°F

Paso Robles Cabernet at its most compelling — Daou punches well above its price.

Benton Lane Estate Pinot Noir — Willamette Valley, Oregon 2023

Benton Lane is one of Oregon's most respected estate Pinot Noir producers, farming sustainably in the Willamette Valley since 1988. The estate vineyards sit in the foothills of the Coast Range in the southern Willamette Valley, where diverse microclimates, volcanic Jory soils, and a long, cool growing season create ideal conditions for world-class Pinot Noir. Now part of the Huneeus Vintners family — the team behind Quintessa and Flowers — Benton Lane continues to produce estate-grown Pinot Noir of exceptional purity and elegance. The 2023 Estate bottling represents the full expression of the estate's best blocks, delivering benchmark Willamette Valley character at an accessible price.

The nose is pretty and inviting: pure ripe raspberries, fresh floral perfume, wet stones, and pine. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and elegant, floating with fine tannins and a lovely, even finish — a breath of fresh air. Holiday spice, toast, and brown sugar layer over red cherry and forest floor, with concentrated, earthy flavors framed by soft, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity on the long, spicy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points — "Pretty on opening, with pure notes of ripe raspberries, fresh floral perfume, wet stones, and pine. Medium-bodied, elegant, and floating on the palate, with fine tannins and a lovely, even finish. A highly charming and approachable wine — a breath of fresh air from the Benton-Lane team." (Vintage 2023). 

Wine Advocate 90 Points — "Opens with scents of holiday spice, toast, and brown sugar over red cherry and forest floor aromas. The medium-bodied palate offers concentrated, earthy flavors framed by soft, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity, with a long, spicy finish." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Benton Lane Winery, Southern Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Owner: Huneeus Vintners (Quintessa, Flowers)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA, Oregon
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Farming: Sustainable, 100% estate-grown
• Soils: Volcanic Jory
• Style: Medium-Bodied, Elegant, Terroir-Driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, red cherry, forest floor, holiday spice, wet stones, pine, chalky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, herb-roasted chicken, soft cheeses, charcuterie
• Serve: Slightly chilled, 58–62°F

91pts Dunnuck, 90pts Wine Advocate — Benton Lane Estate is benchmark Willamette Valley Pinot Noir at under $25. It doesn't get better than this.

From arguably the greatest cooperative on earth, this Langhe Nebbiolo is Produttori del Barbaresco's most accessible expression — essentially a "declassified" Barbaresco made from the same high-quality Nebbiolo grapes, just from younger vines, offering an approachable, early-drinking window into one of Piedmont's most celebrated estates.

The Producer

Produttori del Barbaresco is the benchmark cooperative of the Langhe, renowned worldwide for their single-vineyard Riserva Barbarescos. Sourcing exclusively from members' vineyards in the Barbaresco DOCG, they combine traditional winemaking methods with an unwavering commitment to terroir. This Langhe Nebbiolo is the perfect entry point into their world — serious wine at an approachable price.

The 2024 Vintage

The 2024 growing season began with a mild winter and welcome rainfall in late 2023 and March 2024, partially restoring soil water reserves after nearly two years of severe drought. Mild temperatures brought an early bud break around March 20th in Barbaresco, setting the stage for a fresh, vibrant vintage with bright natural acidity and elegant fruit expression.

Tasting Profile

Classic Nebbiolo character in a more approachable, earlier-drinking style. Expect aromas of red cherry, dried rose petal, tar, and subtle earthiness. On the palate it's medium-bodied with bright acidity, fine tannins, and a clean, mineral-driven finish — all the hallmarks of great Nebbiolo without the decade-long wait.

Perfect Pairings

• Italian Classics: Pizza, pasta with meat ragù, lasagna Bolognese
• Meats & Charcuterie: Roasted chicken, fennel sausage, prosciutto, mild cheeses
• Earthy Dishes: Mushroom risotto, truffle-infused pasta, aged Parmigiano

Serve at 60–65°F. Decant for 30 minutes to open up. At $29.99, this is one of the most compelling values in Italian wine — Barbaresco pedigree at a Langhe price.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | A pleasing balance of rich flavor, mouthwatering acidity and verve deliver. This wine combines the aromatic lift of citrus blossoms with flavors of crisp nectarine, spice and a hint of guava. Delicious.

James Suckling 92 Points | A creamy and flavorful chardonnay, offering white peaches, raw walnuts, lemon rind and melon. Rich but clean and textured, with medium to full body and delicious stone fruit in the middle. Tense, juicy finish

Winemaker Description 

The 2023 vintage could be the vintage of the decade. It is among the coolest growing seasons in Napa Valley in the past ten-plus years, resulting in wines that are exceptionally flavorful, expressive, and have strong potential to age for decades to come. 

This Chardonnay presents a complex bouquet with enticing aromas of ripe melon, honeysuckle, and juicy peach, complemented by delicate hints of citrus blossoms.  

The name KARIA (KAR-ee-ah) is derived from the Greek word meaning graceful, and the 2023 KARIA Chardonnay lives up to its moniker. It shows how grapes from select cool-climate vineyards in southern Napa Valley can be vinified and blended into a seamless integration of fresh-fruit aromas and flavors, crisp acidity and subtle oak spice. Light and graceful: that’s KARIA. 

KARIA comes from a tapestry of vineyards in the southern part of Napa Valley. For the 2023 vintage, vineyards in the Atlas Peak District (42%), Carneros (35%), Arcadia (14%) and Bravo Zulu (8%) contributed fruit for this wine. The vineyards in Carneros (Beckster Las Amigas and Carneros Creek), which are cooled in the mornings and evenings by breezes sweeping north from San Pablo Bay, contribute citrus and mineral notes to the wine. ARCADIA VINEYARD brings perfume and delicate fruit characters. The Oak Knoll vineyards (Bravo Zulu) provide bright, juicy apple and pear personality to the blend. Atlas Peak fruit adds a lemon/lime citrus character and a richer mouthfeel. The grapes for this wine were picked early in the morning to keep them cool and then they were whole cluster pressed to preserve freshness. Oak and malolactic fermentation were used in moderation to accent, rather than overwhelm, the fruit.