$25 - $50 Wine

Gaston Chiquet | Tradition | Premier Cru Brut | Vallée de la Marne, Champagne | NV (68% 2021 Base) | Sustainable

Wine Spectator: 92 Points — Vivacious and well balanced, with integrated acidity and a refined mousse. Ripe black cherry, blackberry, Meyer lemon peel, biscuit and white flowers, followed by a lingering mineral finish. (Disgorged February 2024)

Vinous: 90 Points — Rich and expressive, showing dried pear, chamomile, spice, dried flowers, mint and marzipan. Meunier and Pinot Noir give the wine its generous texture and broad presence. (Disgorged February 2025)

Jeb Dunnuck: 90 Points — Bright and inviting, with notes of fresh berries, citrus, flowers and peach. Juicy and medium bodied, with a soft, pillowy mousse and a clean finish.

The Wine Advocate: 90 Points — Inviting aromas of yellow orchard fruit, fresh peach, honeycomb, citrus and warm biscuits lead to a fleshy, charming palate with a refined mousse, ripe fruit and lively balancing acidity. (Disgorged November 2019)

Gaston Chiquet is one of Champagne's most storied grower-producers. In 1919, brothers Fernand and Gaston Chiquet became pioneers among the region's independent growers by producing and selling Champagne from their own fruit — a tradition now carried forward by eighth-generation Nicolas Chiquet from the Premier Cru village of Dizy in the Vallée de la Marne. Tradition is the house's flagship non-vintage Brut, a classic three-grape blend that has defined the Chiquet style for generations.

The current release is composed of 40% Pinot Meunier, 35% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Noir, drawn entirely from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards in Dizy, Hautvillers, Mareuil-sur-Ay and Ay. The vines are rooted in clay and limestone soils over the region's underlying chalk. The base is 68% from the 2021 harvest, supplemented by reserve wines from 2018 through 2020 — a blend that maintains the estate's consistent house style while adding depth and complexity.

Grapes are harvested by hand and vinified entirely in stainless steel, preserving the purity of fruit and the character of each vineyard site. Malolactic fermentation is completed in full, softening the wine's natural acidity and contributing to its rounded, accessible texture. Following secondary fermentation in bottle, Tradition spends more than 48 months aging on its lees — an extended maturation that develops a fine, persistent mousse and layers of fresh bread, biscuit and toasted nut complexity. The wine is finished at a dosage of approximately 6 grams per liter, producing a dry but beautifully balanced Brut style.

Golden yellow in color, Tradition opens with aromas of ripe pear, golden peach, fresh apricot and red berries, followed by white flowers, citrus peel, chamomile and freshly baked bread. Subtle notes of almond, biscuit, ginger and crushed chalk emerge as the Champagne opens in the glass. The palate is lively, creamy and well balanced — Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir bring a generous, vinous texture, while Chardonnay provides freshness and lift. Flavors of peach, black cherry, blackberry, Meyer lemon and toasted pastry develop across the palate, leading to a persistent, dry and mineral-driven finish.

Approachable enough to serve as an aperitif but structured enough for the table. Pairs beautifully with oysters, shrimp, smoked salmon, sushi, roast chicken, pork, charcuterie, fried appetizers, mushroom dishes and moderately aged cheeses. Serve well chilled at 46–50°F in a white wine or tulip-shaped Champagne glass.

• Producer: Gaston Chiquet
• Cuvée: Tradition
• Classification: Premier Cru Brut
• Appellation: Champagne, France
• Region: Vallée de la Marne
• Villages: Dizy, Hautvillers, Mareuil-sur-Ay and Ay
• Grape Varieties: 40% Pinot Meunier, 35% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir
• Base Vintage: 68% 2021 harvest
• Reserve Wines: 32%, from 2018–2020
• Farming: Sustainable
• Soils: Clay and limestone over chalk
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Malolactic Fermentation: Yes
• Lees Aging: 48+ months
• Dosage: ~6 g/L
• Alcohol: ~12.5% ABV
• Bottle Size: 750ml

As a non-vintage Champagne, base vintages, reserve wine proportions, dosage, lees aging period and disgorgement dates may vary by release. Critic ratings may apply to different disgorgements of the same cuvée.

Winemaker Description

Gilgal wines are premium, quality-aged varietal wines from Golan Heights Winery in Israel — fruit-forward and expressive, produced with the same care and attention to quality as the flagship Yarden label. The coin on the label references recent archaeological excavations that tell an exciting and heroic story of the region’s ancient heritage.

Flavors of blackberry, plum, and raspberry, along with notes of black tea and cocoa, with hints of fresh herbs and French oak.

Kosher for Passover.

About Golan Heights Winery

Founded in 1983, Golan Heights Winery is widely credited with transforming the Israeli wine industry. Situated at elevations of 400–1,200 meters above sea level, the Golan Heights benefits from cool nights, volcanic basalt soils, and a long growing season — ideal conditions for producing structured, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery produces wines under the Yarden, Hermon, and Gilgal labels, all under strict kosher supervision.

Food Pairings

Roast lamb, braised brisket, grilled ribeye, herb-roasted chicken, and aged hard cheeses. An excellent choice for Passover Seder and holiday celebrations.

Product Details

• Producer: Golan Heights Winery
• Region: Golan Heights, Israel
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Certification: Kosher for Passover
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, fruit-forward Israeli Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto — Rioja, Spain 2023

Bodegas Gomez Cruzado is one of Rioja's most exciting modern producers — a historic estate in Haro, the heart of Rioja Alta, that has undergone a remarkable transformation under the direction of winemaker Amanda Klemp, who has brought a precision-focused, terroir-driven approach to the cellar while honoring the estate's deep roots in the region. El Predilecto — "The Favorite" — is a total departure from the Rioja norm: a blend of old vine Garnacha and Tempranillo sourced from two distinct mountain landscapes, united in concrete and crafted to express the full complexity of Rioja's diverse terroir. The Garnacha (65%) comes from Alto Najerilla, in the triangle formed by the towns of Badarán, Cordovín, and Cárdenas in the Sierra Demanda mountains. The Tempranillo (35%) comes from the highest area of Samaniego, near the Sierra Cantabria mountains. Old vines at the foot of both mountain ranges provide greater fruit character and concentration. Fermented separately with native yeast, 100% destemmed without crushing, cold fermented with short maceration, then blended and refined in concrete for approximately five months — a winemaking approach that preserves freshness, precision, and the distinct personality of each site.

The nose bridges two landscapes: red and black fruit intertwine, with cherry and blackberry layered with licorice, a faint balsamic nuance, and an intensity of spice. On the palate, it is juicy and poised — generous, full-bodied warmth with tannins sitting between chalky and plush, freshness carrying the wine forward through a lengthy, supple finish. Precise, modern Rioja that shows two mountain landscapes in one gesture. Age 12–15 years.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 — "A total departure from the norm — intensity of spice and a generous mouthfeel of full-bodied warmth while remaining elegant through the lengthy, supple finish. Age 12-15 years."

Vinous 93 — "Bridges two origins. Cherry and blackberry layered with licorice and a faint balsamic nuance. Juicy and poised — a precise, modern Rioja that shows two landscapes in one gesture."

• Producer: Bodegas Gomez Cruzado, Haro, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Blend: 65% Garnacha (Alto Najerilla, Sierra Demanda) / 35% Tempranillo (Samaniego, Sierra Cantabria)
• Vines: Old vines at the foot of two mountain ranges
• Winemaking: Native yeast, 100% destemmed, cold fermentation, short maceration, 5 months in concrete
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cherry, blackberry, licorice, balsamic, spice, chalky-plush tannins, long supple finish
• Style: Full-bodied, precise, modern Rioja
• Drink: Now–2038 (best 2028+)
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, braised short rib, aged Manchego, wild mushroom dishes

Two mountain landscapes, one extraordinary wine — Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto 2023 is modern Rioja at its most compelling.

Our Professional Review

Rand of 67wino.shop writes | This is is a light, peppery, floral wine with flavors of wild, ripe bramble fruit.  Tannins are soft and pleasant.

Mevushal. Made in a style that is full in berry flavors, soft in depth, lingering in its fruit filled acidity and superbly balanced. A wine made to get your taste buds into, rather than pose alongside. It is a measure of Goose Bay’s commitment to quality. - Winemaker Description.

Goose Bay Pinot Noir Kosher New Zealand 2021 is an elegant, cool-climate red that beautifully captures the vibrant character of New Zealand Pinot Noir.

Fragrant aromas of ripe cherry, wild strawberry and red plum rise from the glass, joined by subtle notes of dried herbs, gentle spice and forest floor. The palate is smooth and medium-bodied, with juicy red fruit, refreshing acidity and fine, supple tannins. Delicate earthy and savory nuances add complexity before a balanced, softly lingering finish.

The 2021 vintage is drinking beautifully now, offering enough freshness for the dinner table while remaining polished and approachable on its own. Serve slightly cool to highlight its bright fruit and silky texture.

Pairing: An excellent companion to roasted chicken, turkey, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, duck, herb-crusted lamb or gently seasoned beef. A versatile choice for Shabbat, holiday meals and everyday entertaining.

Varietal: Pinot Noir
Country: New Zealand
Vintage: 2021
Bottle Size: 750ml
Certification: Kosher

Elegant · Silky · Red-Fruited · Savory · Fresh

Gramona La Cuvée Aliances — Corpinnat, Catalonia 2022

Gramona is the undisputed standard-bearer of Corpinnat — the prestigious new appellation born from a breakaway group of the finest traditional-method sparkling wine producers in the Penèdes, committed to stricter quality standards, longer aging, and a deeper expression of Catalan terroir. Founded in 1881 in Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Gramona has farmed biodynamically for decades and is one of Spain's most respected sparkling wine houses, producing wines that rival the finest Champagnes in complexity and longevity. La Cuvée Aliances is their entry into the Corpinnat range: a traditional-method Brut crafted from the classic indigenous varieties — Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada — grown on certified organic and biodynamic vineyards in the heart of the Penèdes.

The color is pale yellow with steel edges — white gold in the glass. The nose is elegant and medium-intensity: floral notes wrapped in stone fruit — peach and apricot — alongside golden apple, lemon peel, and pineapple. Bakery notes of brioche and almonds add depth, with balsamic hints of fennel and bay leaf giving a distinctive Catalan character. On the palate, it is fresh, precise, and beautifully balanced — fine persistent bubbles, lively acidity, and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

"Pale yellow, steel edges. Elegant floral notes wrapped in stone fruit — peach, apricot, golden apple, lemon peel, pineapple. Notes of bakery, almonds, fennel and bay leaf." — Gramona Winemaker

• Producer: Gramona, Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penèdes, Catalonia, Spain
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Corpinnat
• Method: Mètode Tradicional (Traditional Method)
• Varieties: Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada
• Style: Brut
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, apricot, golden apple, lemon peel, pineapple, brioche, almonds, fennel, bay leaf, mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled seafood, sushi, tapas, Manchego, light appetizers, aperitivo

Spain's answer to great Champagne — Gramona La Cuvée Aliances is biodynamic, precise, and one of Corpinnat's most compelling values.

Gramona Imperial — Corpinnat, Catalonia 2018

Gramona is the crown jewel of Corpinnat — the prestigious breakaway appellation of the Penèdes committed to the highest standards of traditional-method sparkling wine production in Spain. Founded in 1881 and farming biodynamically for decades, Gramona produces wines of extraordinary depth, precision, and longevity that stand comfortably alongside the finest Champagnes in the world. The Imperial is Gramona's flagship expression: a vintage-dated Brut aged on the lees for a minimum of five years, crafted from a blend of the great indigenous Catalan varieties led by Xarel·lo. The 2018 vintage is particularly notable — a cooler, wetter year that produced a wine of exceptional freshness and fine-boned structure, with the kind of calibrated acidity that will reward further cellaring.

The bouquet is elegant and complex after 60 months on the lees: lime and lemon pie lead, complemented by a delicate array of fine herbs, brioche, and a subtle autolytic creaminess. On the palate, it is dry and creamy with an ethereal, flowing texture enlivened by calibrated acidity. Refreshing and joyful, with a long, mineral-driven finish — this is sparkling wine of genuine distinction.

🏆 Vinous 91 Points — "The bouquet features aromas of lime and lemon pie, complemented by a delicate array of fine herbs. Dry and creamy on the palate, the ethereal flow is enlivened by calibrated acidity. Refreshing and joyful, this sparkling wine is a delight."

• Producer: Gramona, Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penèdes, Catalonia, Spain
• Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Corpinnat
• Method: Mètode Tradicional (Traditional Method)
• Blend: 56% Xarel·lo, 30% Macabeo, 10% Parellada, 4% Chardonnay
• Aging: 60 months on the lees
• Style: Brut
• Size: 750ml
• Vintage Note: Cooler, wetter year — exceptional freshness and fine-boned structure
• Tasting Notes: Lime, lemon pie, fine herbs, brioche, creamy texture, calibrated acidity, mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled monkfish, scallops, lobster, roast poultry, Ibérico ham, mature Manchego, Comté

Five years on the lees, one of Spain's greatest sparkling wine houses — Gramona Imperial 2018 is a Corpinnat benchmark of rare elegance and freshness.

Winemaker Description 

The Gran Moraine Vineyard is the source for some of Oregon's finest Pinot Noirs, with this being no exception. Tucked into the foothills of the Coastal Range, the vineyard is cooler than most, and delivers Pinots with fresh pure red fruit, fine tannins and chalky acidity. Winemaker Shane Moore ages this Pinot Noir in large, mostly used oak barrels to lend subtle spice without overpowering the delicate fruit.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Precise and elegantly generous, this red shows detailed flavors of cherry and raspberry laced with rose petal, black tea and stony mineral notes as it builds richness and tension toward refined tannins.

James Suckling Points | This is a delicious wine with a lot of character. Dark and red fruit with hints of crushed stone and toffee on the nose. Fresh and crisp fruit with a tangy character. Smooth tannins with a crisp finish. Vines are on sandy soils at 400 to 500 feet altitude.

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The 2021 Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton is bursting with pomegranate and cranberry fruit, plus accents of potpourri, licorice and autumn leaves. The medium-bodied palate is silky and bright with concentrated, layered flavors and a long, spicy finish.

Granville · Basalt Chardonnay · Willamette Valley · 2021

A graceful, lighter-bodied Oregon Chardonnay with brisk citrus, delicate orchard fruit, and a chalky mineral edge. The supplied 2021 review describes a nimble, tangy wine with peach-skin and lemon-drop flavors, accented by chamomile and green tea.

Producer & Terroir

Granville’s Basalt Chardonnay draws on grapes from both the Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills. The supplied winemaker description notes a production of just 200 cases, offering a small-production expression of these two Willamette Valley growing areas.

Tasting & Winemaking

Twelve months in neutral French oak provide a subtle oak influence without overwhelming the fruit. The existing review also notes partial malolactic fermentation, alongside a light-bodied profile and brisk, tangy character.

Expert Review · 2021 Vintage

Wine Spectator, 92 Points | This graceful, lighter bodied Chardonnay rested in neutral French oak for 12 months after partial malo. It is brisk and tangy, with aromas and flavors of peach skins, lemon drops, chamomile, green tea and chalk. This nimble wine wants to tango, and you should accept.

Winemaker Description

Granville | This exquisite wine, crafted from grapes harvested in both Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills, offers a delightful journey into Oregon's terroir. With a harmonious balance achieved through 12 months of aging in neutral French oak, it presents flavors of the region's ripe fruit, supported by subtle oak influence. Limited to just 200 cases, this small production showcases the artistry of winemaking and the unique qualities of this vintage.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Try with grilled fish, seared scallops, lemon-roasted chicken, or a fresh goat cheese salad. Serve chilled and allow a little time in the glass for the fruit and herbal aromatics to open.

Wine Details

• Producer: Granville
• Cuvée: Basalt Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2021
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Grape sources: Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills
• Country: United States
• Aging: 12 months in neutral French oak
• Malolactic fermentation: Partial, per the supplied review
• Production: 200 cases, per the winemaker description
• Size: 750ml

A lively Willamette Valley Chardonnay for the table, with delicate fruit and a refreshing mineral accent.

Expert Review - Vintage 2017 

93 Points Wine Spectator | A wine that suggests a sense of place, this is refined and just a hint rustic, which adds to the authenticity. Notes of cherry and pomegranate are laced with hints of white pepper and bay leaf. Drink now.

Winemaker Description

Located at 1000 to 1200 ft., the vineyard overlooks upper Chiles Canyon and remnant walls of the grist wills built by pioneer J.B. Chiles. Brooding dark purple plum raspberry flavors dotted with sage and black peppercorns.

Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc — Wairau Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand 2025

Greywacke is the personal project of Kevin Judd — the winemaker who spent two decades building Cloudy Bay into one of the world's most recognized Sauvignon Blanc brands before striking out on his own. Named after the hard, dark stone that forms the riverbeds of Marlborough, Greywacke is a small-production estate focused on wines of genuine depth and site specificity. The Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc is their benchmark expression: harvested largely by machine during cool, often cold night-time conditions, picked earlier than normal over a three-week period commencing 16 March, transported directly to the winery in the Omaka Valley, lightly pressed for high-quality juice, and left on lees on individual vineyard batches until late June before blending. Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc with the volume turned down a notch — and all the better for it.

The 2025 pours a pale, luminous gold. The nose is vibrant and aromatic — lemon blossom, honeydew melon, orange blossom, passion fruit, white pineapple, kumquat, and lime sherbet, delicately infused with herb garden botanicals and a flourish of elderflower and wildflowers. On the palate, sleek and smooth with mid-palate richness, juicy lemon, steely cassis, beeswax, brine, and a generously textured finish with impressive structure and depth. Crunchy New Zealand acidity, savory phenolics, and a clean, lingering close.

• Producer: Greywacke (Kevin Judd)
• Appellation: Wairau Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand
• Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
• Vintage: 2025
• Harvest: Night harvest; picked 16 March over 3 weeks
• Vinification: Stainless steel; individual vineyard batches on lees until late June
• Alcohol: 13%
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2025

• Wine Advocate — 94 pts: Leads with a soft nose of musk sticks and brine, green apple skins, wet linen and green olive tapenade. Tightly coiled yet textured by pithy phenolics. The length of flavor is long, as we have come to expect from Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc. A superb wine in any vintage.
• James Suckling — 93 pts: Flavorful, focused and textural — papayas, limes and stones on the nose. Medium-bodied with bright acidity. Lively and succulent, with a precise palate and a long finish.

In 1968, Miljenko “Mike” Grgich went to work for Robert Mondavi as chief enologist, crafting the inaugural release of “Fumé Blanc” — an elegant, dry, oak-aged style of Sauvignon Blanc that Mondavi named after the French word for smoke. A decade later, Mike's 1973 Chardonnay famously won the Judgment of Paris, putting California wine on the world map. He went on to found Grgich Hills Estate in 1977, where he continued to champion the Fumé Blanc style as a tribute to his mentor and friend.

The Grgich Hills Fumé Blanc Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2023 Organic 750ml is sourced from the estate's five certified organic Napa Valley vineyards and opens with striking aromas of fresh lime, lemon verbena, gooseberry, and honeysuckle. On the palate, bright citrus, tangy star fruit, and a hint of green mango are framed by deft oak and a long, chiseled finish of lasting slate minerality. Vibrant, precise, and unmistakably Grgich.

Expert Review

Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points: "Vibrant aromatics and bright acidity join texture and intensity for a memorable wine. Sauvignon Blanc aged with deft use of oak delivers pert and sweet citrus, lemon grass, and a sprinkle of sea salt. The finish is lengthy and palate stimulating. Refreshing and ideal for the start of a meal."

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fresh lime, lemon verbena, gooseberry, and honeysuckle
• Palate: Bright citrus, star fruit, green mango, and lemongrass with deft oak
• Finish: Long, chiseled, and mineral with lasting slate and juicy citrus

Wine Details

• 100% Sauvignon Blanc — Fumé Blanc style
• Certified Organic — five estate vineyards
• Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023 | 750ml

Napa Zinfandel with Finesse — From One of California’s Iconic Estates

Grgich Hills is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates, founded by Miljenko “Mike” Grgich — the winemaker behind the legendary 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Their 2019 Napa Valley Zinfandel is a departure from the overblown Zins of the past: elegant, fresh, and certified organic, with lifted acidity and fine-grained tannins that showcase what Zinfandel can do when approached with finesse.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

• Decanter — 92 pts: “Opulent and lavish nose of menthol, cassis and spice, palate of dark fruit, redcurrant, bramble and spicy oak.”
• Wine Review Online — 92 pts: “A breath of fresh air. An elegant medium ruby with strawberry jam, sweet cherry, vanilla, fine-grained tannins and lifted, fresh acidity. This wine showcases well what Zinfandel can do when approached with finesse.”

Winemaker Notes

Grgich Hills Zinfandel Napa Valley 2019 750ml

Inviting aromas of cherry, raspberry, and blackberry intermixed with hints of cranberry and blood orange. Graceful and soft on the front palate, with mixed red berries and lively tannins adding luscious texture through the mid-palate. Its long finish reveals spicy undertones and superb freshness — built to age beautifully for many years.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Zinfandel
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Grgich Hills Estate
• Vintage: 2019
• Certified: Organic
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A versatile red — excellent with BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, pizza, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and spiced dishes.

Guido Porro · Barbera d'Alba DOC · Vigna Santa Caterina · 2025

Guido Porro Barbera d'Alba “Vigna Santa Caterina” 2025 is a vibrant, fruit-driven Piedmont red made from 100% Barbera. Ripe red cherries, wild berries and plums mingle with delicate floral notes and a touch of spice. Lively acidity and soft tannins give the medium-bodied palate freshness and balance, leading to a smooth, juicy finish.

The Producer & Vineyard

The family-owned Guido Porro estate works in the hills of Serralunga d'Alba, in Piedmont's Langhe. Generations of traditional winemaking and a close connection to the local terroir shape its wines. Vigna Santa Caterina produces Barbera with concentration and freshness, highlighting the grape's natural vibrancy and approachable character.

Pairing & Serving

A versatile choice for the table, pair with pasta, pizza, roasted meats, grilled vegetables or aged cheeses. Try serving slightly below room temperature to highlight its fresh fruit and lively acidity.

Details

• Producer: Guido Porro
• Vintage: 2025
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Subregion: Langhe, Serralunga d'Alba
• Appellation: Barbera d'Alba DOC
• Vineyard: Vigna Santa Caterina
• Grape: 100% Barbera
• Type: Red wine
• Style: Dry, medium-bodied

Gulfi Carjcanti DOC Sicilia Carricante 2022 Organic 750ml

Gulfi is one of Sicily's most respected family estates, based in Chiaramonte Gulfi in the Monti Iblei hills of Ragusa — a world away from the volcanic drama of Etna, yet equally compelling. The Carjcanti is made from 100% Carricante, an indigenous Sicilian grape variety traditionally associated with Etna, here grown at 420 meters altitude on limestone-clay soils using traditional alberello training with 9,000 vines per hectare. Certified organic, no irrigation, natural yeasts — this is winemaking with deep respect for the land.

Aged one year in 500L and 2,500L oak barrels followed by several months in bottle, the 2022 Carjcanti is a wine of real tension and complexity — mineral, savory, and built to age, yet already showing beautiful aromatic detail and a palate that rewards every sip.

"Sweet almond paste, young peaches, hints of flint and smoke waft up from this wine. Its soft texture soothes as a savory display of herbal-tinged orchard fruits and salty minerals wash across the palate. There’s a lovely cut of acidity as this finishes with youthful tension revealing hints of hazelnuts and inner florals."

• Producer: Gulfi, Chiaramonte Gulfi, Ragusa, Sicily, Italy
• Appellation: DOC Sicilia Carricante
• Grape: 100% Carricante
• Vintage: 2022
• Farming: Certified Organic — traditional alberello, no irrigation
• Altitude: 420 meters — limestone-clay soils
• Aging: 1 year in oak barrels (500L & 2,500L) + several months in bottle
• Tasting Notes: Almond paste, peach, flint, smoke, herbal orchard fruit, salty minerals, hazelnut, florals, bright acidity
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, seafood pasta, swordfish, burrata, or light antipasti

A rare indigenous Sicilian white from one of the island’s most dedicated organic estates — Carjcanti is the kind of discovery that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about Italian white wine.

Gundlach Bundschu | Chardonnay | Sonoma Coast AVA | 2024 | Organically Grown

Wine Enthusiast: 90 Points — Soft and charming aromas of Meyer lemon, green pear, chalky minerality and spice mélange. The palate brings a pop of fresh acidity, with flavors of apple skin, nectarine, pineapple sage and citrus blossoms through the meandering finish. —Tom R. Capo

Gundlach Bundschu is one of California's oldest continuously family-owned wineries, founded in 1858 and farming the same Rhinefarm estate vineyard at the crossroads of Sonoma Valley and Carneros for six generations. Today the estate is Regenerative Organic Certified®, a commitment that goes beyond conventional organic farming to encompass soil health, ecosystem restoration and long-term land stewardship. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is sourced from cool-climate vineyards along the Pacific-influenced Sonoma Coast AVA, where marine fog and ocean breezes extend the growing season and preserve the natural acidity and freshness that define the appellation's best whites.

The 2024 is vinified to balance the variety's natural richness with the bright, mineral-driven character of the Sonoma Coast. The nose opens with crisp green apple, Meyer lemon and ripe pear, accented by chalky minerality, honey and a whisper of spice. The palate is lively and well structured, with flavors of nectarine, preserved lemon peel, pineapple sage and citrus blossom, carried by bright acidity and a subtle touch of oak through a clean, lingering finish.

Serve at 50–54°F. Pairs beautifully with chicken piccata, roasted squash, grilled fish, shellfish, light pasta with cream or herb sauces and fresh cheeses.

• Producer: Gundlach Bundschu
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA, California
• Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
• Vintage: 2024
• Farming: Organically grown; Regenerative Organic Certified®
• Estate: Rhinefarm, founded 1858
• Style: Dry white wine
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Winemaker Description 

The Gush Etzion Blessed Valley Chardonnay Special Reserve has an intense aroma which gives off a scent of citrus blossoms, jasmine and ginger, alongside the smell of seasoned nuts which comes from the barrels. Medium-bodied, thick and rich but at the same time crisp and acidic.

Guy Breton · Régnié · 2025

Guy Breton's Régnié offers bright fruit and floral aromas with a taut, fresh expression of Gamay. This organic cru Beaujolais combines the appeal of fragrant fruit with a lively sense of tension, making it an inviting red for the table.

Producer & Terroir

Known to his friends as P’tit Max, Guy Breton took over his family's domaine from his grandfather in 1986. Alongside Marcel Lapierre, Jean-Paul Thévenet and Jean Foillard, he became part of the group known as the Gang of Four, championing traditional viticulture and a less interventionist approach to Beaujolais.

Breton first produced Régnié in 2008. The cuvée combines 40% domaine fruit with 60% purchased fruit and is aged in equal parts used barrels and tank. Its vineyards bring together older and younger vines on shallow soils.

Tasting Profile

Bright fruit and floral aromatics are balanced by a slightly tauter, more tense side of Gamay. Freshness and aromatic lift give the wine an engaging character alongside food.

Importer Commentary · Vintage Not Specified

Tom Wolf: By now, it’s no secret that Guy Breton is a wizard of Gamay. The only question is which spell you want him to cast on you. Is his Morgon incantation your favorite, or do you prefer when he transfixes you with his delicate Chiroubles? If you haven’t fallen under the charms of Guy’s Régnié yet, pour yourself a glass and glance back at the empty bottle a little while later. Blending a century-old vineyard with another filled with thirty-five-year-old vines, Guy taps into the shallow soil to draw out Gamay’s slightly more taut and tense side, balancing out the bright fruit and floral aromas beautifully.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Serve lightly chilled with roast chicken, charcuterie, mushroom dishes or a simple lentil salad. Its fresh profile makes it a versatile choice for a shared meal.

Details

• Producer: Guy Breton
• Vintage: 2025
• Country: France
• Region: Beaujolais
• Appellation: Régnié
• Grape: Gamay
• Type: Red wine / Cru Beaujolais
• Farming: Organic
• Fruit sourcing: 40% domaine, 60% purchased
• Aging: 50% used barrels, 50% tank
• Bottle size: 750ml

Winemaker Description 

Gvaot Dances in White is a spicy and aromatic Gewurztraminer combined with Sauvignon Blanc and cold fermented Chardonnay.

Great with Thai or Chinese-style stir-fry dishes, salads and aged cheese. A versatile dinner wine but also excellent on its own.

Hagafen Chardonnay: A Taste of Excellence

Winemaker Description

Mevushal. The Chardonnay grapes for this wine were grown in the fog-cooled Napa Valley in order to produce a wine rich in flavor and varietal character, complemented by aging in small oak barrels.

Don Ernesto has done it again. Our newest vintage of Chardonnay is Mary Poppins. Why Mary Poppins you ask. Well, it is “practically perfect in every way”! From the beautiful soft golden hue, to the rich round mouth, to the long finish, this Chardonnay is what you need to “help the medicine go down in the most delightful way”.

Starting with the nose, we find beautiful soft vanilla, ripe Asian pear and crisp Galia and Honeydew melon. Continuing onto the palate we discover lush star fruit and rich lemon curd. With its lingering finish our Chardonnay will make you want to “go fly a kite”!"  

Memo Summary Notes

The 2022 Hagafen Carneros Chardonnay is a well-regarded California white wine that balances the richness of Napa Valley fruit with the crisp acidity typical of the cooler Carneros region.

Because of its balanced acidity and moderate oak, this Chardonnay pairs exceptionally well with:

• Roasted chicken or turkey with herbs.

• Rich seafood like boiled lobster or pan-seared scallops.

• Creamy pasta dishes or soft cheeses (like Brie or Camembert).

Introducing Hagafen Chardonnay

The Hagafen Carneros Chardonnay 2022 is an exceptional kosher wine that has gained popularity among wine enthusiasts. This delightful white wine perfectly combines the richness of the Carneros region with the meticulous craftsmanship of Hagafen Cellars. With a balanced acidity and well-rounded mouthfeel, each sip delivers a symphony of flavors. Whether you are enjoying a quiet evening or hosting friends, this Chardonnay is a sophisticated choice for any occasion.

Flavor Profile and Food Pairing

The Hagafen Chardonnay showcases bright notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle hints of oak. However, its refreshing acidity makes it perfect to pair with various dishes, especially seafood and poultry. It complements grilled salmon beautifully, enhancing the dish’s flavors. Additionally, it goes well with creamy pasta dishes or a simple cheese platter, making it versatile for any meal.

Hahn Estates SLH Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands 2023 750ml

Hahn Estates is one of Monterey’s most respected producers, and the SLH bottling is their flagship Pinot Noir — estate-grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands, one of California’s most celebrated cool-climate AVAs. The SLH sits at 1,200–2,200 feet elevation in the mountains above Monterey Bay, where the famous “wind-gap” effect funnels cold Pacific air and morning fog through the valleys each afternoon. The result is a long, slow growing season that builds extraordinary flavor complexity while preserving the bright acidity that makes great Pinot Noir possible.

The 2023 SLH is a standout — generous, deep, and deeply Californian, with a richness of fruit that is beautifully balanced by savory complexity and silky tannins. A clear step up from the standard California tier and a wine that punches well above its price.

"So generous, deep and flavorful, offering crushed raspberry and baked-cherry notes on soft tannins. Savory nuances of black tea, mushrooms and forest floor." — James Suckling, 93 pts. (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Hahn Estates, Soledad, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California
• Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023
• Elevation: 1,200–2,200 ft — Pacific wind-gap effect, morning fog
• Tasting Notes: Crushed raspberry, baked cherry, red plum, blackberry, black tea, mushroom, forest floor, allspice, silky tannins, long elegant finish
• Best Paired With: Roast duck, salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, or soft ripened cheese
• James Suckling: 93

Estate-grown Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir at a rock-bottom price — Hahn SLH 2023 is the kind of discovery that makes you buy a case before it’s gone.

Expert Review

91 Points Wine Enthusiast | Fruit of the forest compote notes shine with subtle vanilla on the inviting nose. The palate adds cinnamon spice to these notions and comes in with both concentration and slenderness. Bright freshness gives focus and makes for a mouthwatering finish. An elegant but still fruit-driven Zweigelt.

Winemaker Description 

Bright nose of fresh cranberry and red raspberry mixed with spice notes of white pepper and earthen floor. The brightness carries through to the palate, filled with flavors of pomegranate mixed with a panoply of red fruits, spices, white pepper and a subtle crisp minerality.

The mouth-feel integrates earthiness with the fresh fruit and fine tannins in the mid palate.  The finish is long and rich, revealing silky tannins combined with emerging cherry, gentle minerality, lustrous acidity and white pepper.

Expert Review

Sylvia Wu of Decanter 92 Points | The base wine went through malolactic fermentation with battonage. Yeasty on the nose with citrus blossom, salted nuts and yellow apple. Generous mousse opens up to a full-on palate of brioche, citrus, green fruit acidity and depth of spiced red berries. Satisfying and long. The latest release is based on the 2018 vintage. Drink 2023 - 2028

Winemaker Description 

Our signature Hambledon Classic Cuvée is produced exclusively from our own estate on the South East facing chalk slopes of Windmill Down, in the historic village of Hambledon.

Our Hambledon Classic Cuvée is a well-balanced blend of all 3 traditional grapes, handpicked on our own estate. Aged at least 35 months, it is vibrant, with structured yet ripe acidity. Tasting will elegantly unfold to reveal layers of floral and stone fruit aromas.

Our Hambledon Classic Cuvée is a well-balanced blend of all 3 traditional grapes, handpicked on our own estate. Aged at least 35 months, it is vibrant, with structured yet ripe acidity. Tasting will elegantly unfold to reveal layers of floral and stone fruit aromas.

Winemaker Description 

Our award-winning Hambledon Classic Cuvée Rosé is produced exclusively from our own estate on the South East facing chalk slopes of Windmill Down, in the historic village of Hambledon.

The rosé expression of our Classic Cuvée. Aged a minimum of 45 months, this Chardonnay-led blend will reveal aromas of wild strawberry and gentle vanilla. At the finish, Hambledon's chalky soils and the influence of the Pinot Noir red wine add a hint of phenolic bite.

The colour is vivid, a gentle salmon pink, and the fruit, reflecting the cooler 2019 vintage, has notes of green apple, crisp nashi pear and floral hedgerow scents of hawthorn and fresh sloe.

The rose expression of our Classic Cuvee. Aged a minimum of 45 months, this Chardonnay-led blend will reveal aromas of wild strawberry and gentle vanilla. At the finish, Hambledon's chalky soils and the influence of the Pinot Noir red wine add a hint of phenolic bite.

A hidden gem from Franken, one of Germany's most distinctive wine regions — the Hans Wirsching Silvaner Dino Terroir 2022 is a beautifully expressive, terroir-driven white that showcases everything that makes Franken Silvaner so compelling: understated elegance, mineral precision, and a refreshing, food-friendly character that overdelivers at every price point.

The Wirsching Estate

Hans Wirsching is one of Franken's most respected producers, with a centuries-long history of crafting wines that authentically reflect the region's unique Keuper and Muschelkalk soils. The Dino Terroir bottling is a signature expression of their philosophy — letting the land speak through the grape with minimal intervention.

Tasting Profile

Pale straw with a luminous clarity. The bouquet is subtly fruity and finely aromatic — fresh hay, crisp apple, and ripe melon with a gentle herbal lift. On the palate it's elegant and medium-bodied with bright, refreshing acidity, a clean mineral backbone, and a dry, precise finish. Classic Franken Silvaner: unshowy, honest, and deeply satisfying.

Vintage:

2022

Grape:

Silvaner

Region:

Franken, Germany

Format:

1 Liter

ABV:

12.5%

Why Silvaner?

Silvaner is Franken's signature grape — a variety that thrives where Riesling struggles, producing wines of quiet complexity and remarkable food versatility. Less aromatic than Riesling, it compensates with texture, minerality, and an earthy, terroir-expressive character that rewards attention.

Perfect Pairings

Serve well-chilled (46–50°F) with asparagus, freshwater fish, roasted chicken, mild cheeses, or classic German cuisine. The generous 1L format is ideal for the table — practical, shareable, and always welcome.

Hartford Court Pinot Noir — Russian River Valley, Sonoma County 2023

Hartford Court is one of the Russian River Valley’s most celebrated Pinot Noir producers, farming estate vineyards across the appellation’s most prized sub-zones — including Green Valley and the Sebastopol Hills — where the deepest fog penetration and coolest temperatures in all of Sonoma County produce Pinot Noir of extraordinary perfume, precision, and elegance. The 2023 Russian River Valley is a barrel selection blending fruit from these premier estate sites, matured for nine months in 28% new French oak. It earned 94 points from Jeb Dunnuck, 93 from James Suckling, and 92 from The Wine Advocate — a triple-score performance that confirms Hartford Court’s place among California’s elite Pinot Noir producers.

The nose is seductive and captivating: fresh leather, ripe cherries, red roses, baking spices, cranberry, pomegranate, tobacco, tea leaves, and forest earth — the classic perfumed character of the Russian River Valley at its most expressive. On the palate, the wine is medium-to-full-bodied with a focused, bright feel — refreshing mouthwatering acidity, ripe grainy tannins, concentrated spicy flavors, and a long, flavorful finish of spice, bitter orange rind, and forest floor. Drink now through 2040.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 — "Seductive perfume with notes of fresh leather, ripe cherries, sweet spices, and forest earth. Focused and bright, with refreshing acidity, ripe tannins, and a gently tapering, spiced finish. Drink 2026–2040." (Vintage 2023). 

James Suckling 93 — "Lush and pleasurable with aromas of red roses and baking spices. Full-bodied with silky tannins, a rich and satisfying finish, and pleasant bitter orange rind at the end." (Vintage 2023). 

Wine Advocate 92 — "Layered aromas of cranberry, pomegranate, graham cracker, tobacco, tea leaves and forest floor. Concentrated, spicy flavors framed by grainy tannins and juicy acidity, with a long, flavorful finish." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Hartford Court, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA
• Vineyards: Estate sites including Green Valley & Sebastopol Hills
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Aging: 9 months, 28% new French oak
• Drinking Window: Now – 2040
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe cherry, red rose, cranberry, pomegranate, baking spice, tobacco, forest floor, bitter orange rind
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck breast with cherry glaze, grilled salmon, wild mushroom risotto, Brie, Camembert

A triple 90-point Russian River Valley Pinot Noir from one of Sonoma’s most celebrated estate producers — Hartford Court 2023 is the benchmark for what Green Valley and Sebastopol Hills fruit, aged in French oak, can deliver.

Producer Description 

Medium deep amber colour. Rather fruity nose of prune, fig with earl grey tea and candied orange. Rather sweet palate with a creamy texture, some nutty complexity, and rather long finish. 

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

Tasting Notes

A dry, full-bodied red brimming with blackcurrant aromas, rich concentration of fruit, and intense flavors. Strong and structured, it finishes with a smooth, lingering warmth of vanilla and cloves — a classic Cabernet Sauvignon of excellent character and depth.

About the Wine

The Special Edition series from Hayotzer showcases high-quality classic varietals crafted for connoisseurs who appreciate fine wine. Grapes were harvested at full maturation, then cold-soaked before fermentation at controlled temperatures. Following three weeks of maceration, the wine was aged in barrel and blended from the finest barrels of the vineyard.

Hayotzer Winery is situated on the outskirts of Jerusalem — a unique partnership between French-born winemaker Philippe Lichtenstein and the Shor family, whose winery was founded in 1847 in the Old City of Jerusalem, making it the first recorded winery in Israel. Eight generations and over 170 years later, Hayotzer combines this extraordinary heritage with the terroir of Israel's finest wine regions and Philippe's winemaking artistry.

Food Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, beef short ribs, roasted vegetables, and aged hard cheeses.

Product Details

• Appellation: Jerusalem Hills, Israel
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml
• Certification: Kosher
• Producer: Hayotzer Winery (Philippe Lichtenstein & Shor Family)

Discover Hedges Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Discover the bold character of Washington State's acclaimed Red Mountain AVA with Hedges Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2022. Crafted by the renowned Hedges Family Estate using sustainable farming practices, this exceptional Cabernet showcases the unique microclimate and terroir that make Red Mountain one of the premier wine regions in the Pacific Northwest. Each 750ml bottle delivers a rich, structured wine with remarkable depth and aging potential.

Tasting Profile

This Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon presents a deep, rich color and offers enticing aromas of blackberry, cassis, black plums, anise, fig, and cedar, complemented by notes of cardamom, fresh leather, graphite, dried herbs, dusty cocoa, and cinnamon. The palate is lush, rich, and round, featuring layers of black cherry, plum, and dark fruit coated in firm, sandy tannins. Bitter chocolate and char accents add complexity, while balanced acidity provides structure. The wine finishes long and tense with lingering graphite and cocoa notes.

Expert Recognition - Prior Vintage 

James Suckling - 93 Points (2021 Vintage)
"Dense and dark, with aromas of cedar, cinnamon and black plums, then tight on the palate as bitter chocolate and black cherries are coated in firm, sandy tannins. Char and graphite accents build and linger on the finish."

Perfect Pairings

• Grilled steaks and prime rib
• Rich pasta dishes with meat sauces
• Braised short ribs and lamb
• Aged cheeses and charcuterie
• Hearty stews and roasted meats

Red Mountain Excellence

Hedges Family Estate has established a stellar reputation for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon from Red Mountain's distinctive terroir. The region's warm days, cool nights, and well-drained soils create ideal conditions for developing concentrated flavors and balanced structure. This 2022 vintage can be enjoyed now for its vibrant fruit character or cellared for years to develop more nuanced complexity. A smart addition to any wine collection and perfect for both special celebrations and memorable dinners.

Winemaker Description 

It is not known for certain how long Gelber Muskateller has been in the Rust vineyards. We do know that this grape variety used to be called Weirer. This name comes from Weihrauch (frankincense) because the nutmeg scent is so prevalent. Winemaker Description. 

Green apple, papaya, pineapple, white flowers, peppermint and flint dominate this rich, extracted and exotic delight from Heidi Schröck.

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

Half-Bottle. This wine is a gastronomic specialty made from hand-picked frozen grapes that were harvested in the early morning hours at 10F. These grapes produce only a small amount of highly concentrated juice.

The resulting wine is similarly concentrated with intense flavors of apricot, pineapple and spicy pear. Its silky sweetness is balanced by bright acidity, which makes it perfect to pair with richer desserts.

Hendry · Unoaked Chardonnay · Napa Valley · 2024

Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay 2024 highlights the purity of the estate's old-vine Chardonnay fruit. Pale straw in color, it brings green and pink apple aromas together with stone fruit, followed by a light-bodied palate of tangy apple and citrus. Freshness and balance carry through a surprisingly long, lemony finish.

The Hendry family ranch sits at the foot of Mt. Veeder in the rolling hills northwest of the town of Napa. Its 114 acres of vines experience substantial marine influence, and Hendry makes its wines exclusively from estate grapes. The family's connection to the ranch began in 1939, when George W. and Margaret Hendry made it their home.

Winemaker Description

Hendry: This unassuming, unadorned wine always highlights the beauty and purity of our old-vine Chardonnay fruit. Pale straw color. Aromas of green and pink apples, stone fruits. Light-bodied, with pleasing flavors of tangy apple and citrus. Fresh and vibrant, with green apple and lemony acidity in the surprisingly long finish. Balanced palate. Keep it light when pairing with this wine. Try grilled chicken breasts, lemony hummus or guacamole with chips, mozzarella with prosciutto and summer fruit, and other light, bright foods--or just sip all by itself! Drink now through at least 2028.

Estate Philosophy

Hendry: We believe in good wine at a fair price. In growing good grapes, and keeping the winemaking simple. We’ve remained true to our roots, doing our best to honor the hard work of George W. and Margaret Hendry, who first made this ranch their home in 1939.

You'll find our family ranch tucked at the foot of Mt. Veeder, in the low, rolling hills just northwest of the town of Napa. It includes 114 acres of vines. We experience substantial marine influence, allowing us to grow many different types of wine grapes. All Hendry wines are made only from our estate grapes, and are crafted to highlight the unique soil and climate of this very special place.

Estate Recognition

Hendry's estate materials highlight inclusion in Wine Spectator's Ultimate Travel Guide to Napa Valley 2026 and San Francisco Chronicle Top Wineries recognition for six consecutive years, 2021–2026.

San Francisco Chronicle · Estate Commentary: This unassuming family-run estate is one of Napa’s best-kept secrets. The staff here is among the most knowledgeable of any tasting room in Napa Valley, and the guided tastings on the front porch of the farmhouse-like winery strike the perfect balance of casual and informative.

Sommelier Kelli White · Napa Valley Then and Now · Estate Commentary: Straightforward, delicious, and priced with an eye toward value, the Hendry wines offer an unpretentious counterpoint to an increasingly precious Napa Valley. The operation remains firmly in family hands, and the already impressive quality seems to improve with each passing year.

Food Pairings & Serving

Serve chilled with grilled chicken breasts, lemony hummus or guacamole with chips. Mozzarella with prosciutto and summer fruit is another producer-recommended match. Keep the menu light and bright, or enjoy a glass on its own.

Wine Details

• Producer: Hendry
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Region: California, United States
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Fruit: Estate-grown, old-vine Chardonnay
• Style: Unoaked, light-bodied white wine
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Producer's drinking guidance: Now through at least 2028

Estate-grown Napa Chardonnay with apple-and-citrus freshness, without the oak.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Handsomely structured and full-bodied yet refined in approach, offering blackberry and cherry flavors laced with mocha espresso and cinnamon notes that build richness toward polished tannins.

The Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | A generous and glittering Zinfandel that is both savory and mouthwatering. This wine showcases raspberry, ripe plums, tobacco and dry, forest notes. Robust and lengthy.

James Suckling 91 Points |  Aromas of blueberry tart, poached rhubarb, cigar box and sweet spices. The palate is full-bodied with firm yet integrated tannins, bright acidity and notes of black cherries, baking spices and burnt oranges. Block 28 sits at 60 meters above sea level and is planted to St. George rootstock. The wine is aged for 15 months in 65% new oak. A powerful and tightly bound wine that will age gracefully. Drink or hold.

Winemaker Description 

Hendry Block 28 is located on bench lands west of the town of Napa. This 4.17-acre block is 160 feet above sea level and has thin, stony soils. Morning fog and strong afternoon breezes from San Pablo Bay moderate the maritime climate. The vines were planted in 1998 using St. George roots and grafted with budwood selected from an old-vine Zinfandel vineyard on Mt. Veeder called the Brandlin Vineyard. The vines are spaced 6.9' x 5', cordon-trained and spur-pruned. A vertical trellis system supports the cordon and the canopy.

Mt. Veeder’s Brandlin Ranch was planted in 1926 with a Zinfandel which produces complex, intense fruit.  The character of this mountain fruit was very interesting to George. In the early days of winemaking at Hendry, he made an arrangement with the vineyard’s owner to tend the vines in exchange for the fruit. When the vineyard was sold, George was able to obtain budwood from the gnarled old vines, which he then grafted onto rootstock in Block 28, where we’ve grown it ever since. The character of the fruit remains distinct from our other Zinfandel and Primitivo cultivars. 

In 2021, bud break in Block 28 occurred April 7th. Bloom was May 24th. Harvest was on September 25th, with a yield of 2.93 tons per acre. Bloom-to-harvest period was 124 days. 

The alcoholic fermentation was completed in approximately one week in closed fermentation tanks. The wine was then pressed and put into barrels for malolactic fermentation. Aging was fifteen months in French oak barrels, approximately 65% - 75% of which are new each year. 

Deep ruby color. Big, blackberry jam aromatics jump out of the glass. Fruity on the front-palate, medium-heavy and balanced, drawing out to a firm finish of black tea tannins. This is a Zin for Zin-lovers! The bolder of our two Zinfandel offerings. Plenty of structure for burgers, braised lamb shanks, salumi, cheeses, and slow-roasted brisket. 

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