$25 - $50 Wine

Piper-Héidsieck Champagne Brut NV — Half Bottle (375ml)

Founded in 1785, Piper-Héidsieck is one of Champagne’s most storied and celebrated houses — a name synonymous with elegance, festivity, and the art of the blend. With a history of dressing Hollywood royalty and gracing the world’s most celebrated tables, Piper-Héidsieck has long stood for a bold, fruit-forward style that is instantly recognizable and endlessly appealing. The Brut NV is the house’s signature expression: a classic, well-structured Champagne that showcases the Piper style at its most vibrant.

Crafted from fruit sourced across more than 100 of Champagne’s crus, the blend is led by Pinot Noir for structure, complemented by Pinot Meunier for fleshy fruit expression, and Chardonnay for elegance and acidity. Precious reserve wines ensure a consistent, recognizable flavor profile year after year. Now available in a convenient 375ml half-bottle — perfect for a solo celebration, a romantic dinner, or a gift.

Pale gold with a festive shimmer and lively, precise bubbles. The nose offers almond, fresh hazelnut, croissant, dried lemon, and apricot. The palate is lively and balanced — fresh pear, apple, pomelo, and juicy white fruits — with a creamy mousse, bright acidity, and a smooth, rounded finish.

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points

“Balanced between a soft Brut character and crisper lemon flavors. That balance gives a fine wine, open and easy, but with a fine bite of acidity at the end.”

Wine & Spirits — 90 Points 

“A clean Champagne, green-gold in color with the flavor of peaches just coming into ripeness. Its cool mineral savor brings to mind grapes sautéed in butter.”

James Suckling — 90 Points

“Attractive aromas of croissants, sourdough, dried lemons, apricots, figs and walnuts. Soft and balanced on the palate, with a medium body, creamy mousse and a dry, rounded finish.”

Blend: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
Appellation: Champagne AOC, France
Style: Brut NV
Format: 375ml (Half Bottle)
Scores: 90 pts WE | 90 pts W&S | 90 pts JS

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. 

Cases: 1274
   

Generous in fruit and beautifully fresh, Gérard Boulay’s Chavignol Tradition Blanc offers an inviting introduction to one of Sancerre’s most respected domaines. Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grown on the limestone-rich slopes of Chavignol, this expressive white brings together ripe fruit, supple texture and the mineral character that defines Boulay’s wines.

The 2025 is open and aromatic, with ripe citrus, white stone fruit and subtle herbal nuances. The palate is rounded and harmonious, offering satisfying depth balanced by lively freshness. A chalky, saline character adds definition, carrying the fruit into a long, mouthwatering finish. It is a welcoming Sancerre with enough complexity to keep every glass interesting.

Sourced from several parcels within Chavignol, the Tradition cuvée reflects the village’s distinctive Kimmeridgian soils. Fermented naturally without added yeasts and aged in tank, it preserves the clarity of its fruit and the character of its vineyard origins.

The Boulay family’s winegrowing roots in Chavignol date back to 1380. Gérard has farmed organically since 1990 and harvests entirely by hand, bringing the same careful attention to this village cuvée as to the domaine’s celebrated single-vineyard wines.

Enjoy as an aperitif or pair with oysters, grilled shrimp, roast fish, herb-seasoned chicken or fresh goat cheese. Particularly inviting in its youth, the 2025 offers a delicious balance of ripe fruit and refreshing energy—a versatile choice for both relaxed evenings and the dinner table.

At Marqués de Riscal, there used to be “winemaker’s wines” among its historic reservas, like the Reserva Medoc and the XR, which never became commercial names. In the tradition of the cellarmasters from Bordeaux that have long been part of Riscal’s story, the winemaker marked some of the barrels in chalk with the letters XR (Extra Reserva) as a consequence of having found special characteristics which were not present in other wines. These wines were never sold but served as a reference point for the winemaker. This custom lasted almost a century, between the harvests of 1869 and 1964. In 2015, Marqués de Risca released a wine named XR, paying tribute to all the master winemakers who have helped to forge a part of the greatest history of Spanish wine in Marqués de Riscal.

Expert Reviews

94 Points James Suckling - July 17, 2025 "Dark mushrooms, spices and leather with cedar and black plums. Ripe yet juicy with plenty of blackberries and a twist of citrus and vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied with dusty tannins and a very lengthy finish. Pretty traditional and linear, this Rioja is excellent to drink now but will benefit from extra time in bottle."

93  Points Wine Enthusiast - May 1, 2026 "Classic and focused with dark, layered flavors, this XR Reserva captures a deeper tone of Tempranillo with a body of black fruits, wet tobacco, spiced cocoa, and a drop of pine resin. Flavor fills the mouth while the wine maintains restraint with a medium body and plenty of length. Melting tannins bring persistence and the potential to enjoy after several more years in cellar."

93 Jeb Dunnuck - November 16, 2025 "An ode to blending, the 2021 XR by Marques de Riscal Reserva is Tempranillo and Graciano made in a fruity, modern style, with sweet tannins and 25 months of American oak aging. Dark cherry, vanilla, and a rich dusting of cocoa powder give it a lustiness across layers of full-bodied concentration and decadence. Ready to enjoy, it will remain enjoyable another 10-12 years."

92 Points Wine Spectator - November 3, 2025 "A structured version, with sculpted tannins wrapped in a fleshy range of coulised black cherry and black raspberry fruit, plus accents of candied violet, fennel seed, milled pepper and cured tobacco. Harmonious, this expands nicely on the palate and through the spiced finish."

VINEYARD

Marques de Riscal’s important vineyards holdings and long term contracts are focused around a specific quality approach. For their Reservas they work exclusively with old vines, from before the 1970s, as they firmly believe that these are critical for the delicate Tempranillo grape to achieve appropriate concentration. They work in the coolest area of Rioja (Rioja Alavesa), at elevation, on soils that accentuate freshness and detail, and with a touch of Graciano; these factors bring forward the winery’s trademark vibrancy, refinement, and aging potential. The XR selection is always a barrel selection but in general can be said to come from vines that have lower natural yields and produce more concentrated fruit.

WINEMAKING

Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature and is not over-extended, in order to bring delineation to the beautiful old vine concentration. The wine spends just over two years in American Oak Barrels with a small percentage in French oak. The beautiful concentration and irresistible fruit are kept at the forefront of the gentle handling process.

VINTAGE

The 2021 season in Rioja Alavesa was defined by a cool, wet spring and a warm, even summer, ensuring steady ripening and excellent balance. Harvest began later than average, with yields slightly reduced but fruit quality exceptional. The wines show Rioja Alavesa’s hallmark tension: vibrant red fruit purity, fine-grained tannins, and lifted freshness. Precision in vineyard work and restrained cellar craft deliver wines of clarity and length that highlight the region’s leadership in expressive, age-worthy Tempranillo.

TASTING NOTE

Expressive aromas of fruit intermingle with a multitude of spices and pepper. The ripe, concentrated fruit shows beautiful complexity.

FOOD PAIRING

Ham, mild cheeses, rich pastas, poultry, grilled red meats or roasts

A polished and expressive Brunello offering ripe Tuscan fruit, savory woodland character, refreshing acidity and a firm, age-worthy finish.

Wine Description

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is an elegant and layered expression of Sangiovese Grosso from one of Montalcino’s most historic estates. Situated southwest of Montalcino, the CastelGiocondo vineyards rise approximately 300 to 400 meters above sea level, with favorable southwest-facing exposures and a diverse combination of clay, sand and schist soils.

This varied landscape brings complexity and definition to the wine. The 2020 vintage opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, raspberry and pomegranate, followed by violet, rose and subtle woodland notes. With time in the glass, savory layers of licorice, white pepper, star anise, toasted spice and earth begin to emerge.

Medium to full-bodied, the palate begins soft and velvety, with generous ripe fruit balanced by refreshing acidity and dense, finely structured tannins. The finish is long, savory and mineral-driven, showing the depth and restraint expected from classic Brunello di Montalcino.

Winemaking

The Sangiovese Grosso grapes are carefully selected in the vineyard and again at the winery. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with frequent pump-overs during the early stages to encourage color, aroma and gentle extraction. The wine is subsequently matured in wood and refined in bottle until it reaches its characteristic balance and harmony.

About CastelGiocondo

CastelGiocondo is a remarkable historic estate dominated by an ancient castle and medieval village. Its vineyards benefit from elevation, well-drained soils, warm Tuscan sunshine and cooling Mediterranean influences—all ideal conditions for producing structured, aromatic and long-lived Sangiovese.

The diversity of the estate’s soils and exposures allows Frescobaldi to create a Brunello with remarkable depth and evolving complexity. Each glass reveals something new, from vibrant red and dark fruit to floral, earthy and spice-driven nuances.

Food Pairing

An excellent companion to braised beef, osso buco, roasted lamb, wild mushrooms, truffle dishes, aged Pecorino Toscano and Parmigiano-Reggiano. It is also a natural match for traditional Tuscan preparations, including pappardelle with wild-boar ragù and bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Serving Suggestions

Serve at approximately 60–65°F in a large red-wine glass. When enjoyed young, decanting for one to two hours will help reveal the wine’s aromatic detail and soften its youthful structure. Delicious beginning in 2026, it also has the balance and tannic foundation for further development in the cellar.

Expert Ratings

94  James Suckling: Pretty Brunello with licorice, smoky woodland and ripe black cherries. Medium-bodied, soft and velvety at the start, then thick with an austere finish. Refreshing acidity. Good definition and savoriness here, yet it’s mostly fruity. Needs time to develop greater complexity. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.

93 Decanter: Davide Bozzon has been the resident winemaker at Castelgiocondo since this 2020 vintage. Given the hot conditions, he kept macerations to under 28 days to rein in the power and keep the wine from becoming too heavy. After one year in neutral barriques, it refines for a further two in large Slavonian oak casks. Grenadine and macerated red plum are topped with chocolate, rosemary and oregano. Smooth and polished on entry, luxurious fruit is laced with espresso and leather. Despite its girth, a concentration of frisky acidity persists through the core. That charming touch of Tuscan rusticity is felt in its dry, dusty tannins on the back end.

93 Wine Spectator: Fresh and expressive, this red displays cherry, raspberry, earth, leather and menthol flavors. There are gripping tannins, yet it's the vivid acidity that makes a stronger impact as it propels the long finish. Best from 2028 through 2045. 25,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.

92 Jeb Dunnuck: Pouring a saturated magenta/ruby hue, the 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino is warming with ripe fruit on the nose, including tarry notes of baked black cherries, pine sap, polished leather, and toasted oak spice. While it's full-bodied, it keeps a snappy lift of crunchy acidity, with a rich coating texture and notes of dark chocolate-covered orange on the finish.

Wine Details

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2020

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy | 750ml

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.

An elegant single-harvest White Port from Portugal’s Douro Valley, Maynard’s White Colheita Port 2009 combines vibrant citrus and floral character with the complexity gained through more than a decade of maturation in wood. Beautifully balanced between sweetness and refreshing acidity, this distinctive Colheita demonstrates the remarkable character and longevity of traditional Douro white grape varieties.

Produced entirely from the 2009 harvest, the wine was matured in wooden casks for over 10 years, allowing its youthful fruit to develop greater depth, smoothness and complexity while retaining impressive freshness.

Region & Style

Country: Portugal
Region: Douro Valley
Appellation: Porto / Port
Wine Type: Fortified White Wine
Style: White Colheita Port / Single Harvest Port
Vintage: 2009
Bottle Size: 750ml
Alcohol: 20% ABV
Winemaker: Álvaro van Zeller

Grape Varieties

A traditional Douro white blend composed of:

• Códega do Larinho
• Rabigato
• Malvasia Fina
• Arinto

Winemaking & Aging

Maynard’s White Colheita 2009 is produced exclusively from grapes harvested in a single vintage. Following vinification, the Port matured in wooden casks for more than 10 years.

Colheita Ports differ from Vintage Ports in that their character develops primarily through extended aging in wood rather than prolonged maturation in bottle. This slow oxidative evolution brings additional complexity and softness while preserving the acidity that gives fine White Colheita Port its characteristic freshness and balance.

Tasting Notes

The Maynard’s 2009 White Colheita offers an elegant and smooth aromatic profile, led by youthful citrus fruit and delicate floral fragrances.

On the palate, the wine is subtly complex, combining lively fruit and floral character with the rounded texture developed through extended wood aging. Sweetness is balanced by refreshing acidity, giving the wine finesse, freshness and an elegant, harmonious finish.

18 Points — Revista de Vinhos

Revista de Vinhos awarded Maynard’s White Colheita Port 2009 an impressive 18 Points.

The wine was particularly noted for its smooth and elegant aromatic character, with citrus-driven fruit and floral notes creating a subtly complex and refined expression.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly chilled at approximately 12–14°C / 54–57°F. Its combination of sweetness, freshness and aromatic complexity makes it an excellent after-dinner wine, although it is equally enjoyable served on its own.

Store the bottle upright in a cool, dry and dark location with a consistent temperature.

Food Pairing

This White Colheita is particularly versatile with desserts. Pair it with caramel-based desserts, baked apples, dried fruits and warm spices, as well as tarte Tatin, crème brûlée and delicately flavored cheeses.

Its fresh citrus character also makes it an excellent partner for fruit-based desserts such as tangerine or citrus parfait.

About Maynard’s

Maynard’s is the flagship Port brand associated with Fernando and Álvaro van Zeller, continuing a centuries-old family connection to the Port wine trade. The brand takes its name from Walter Maynard, born in 1652, an early English merchant associated with the export of Port wine from Portugal to England.

Today, Maynard’s produces a collection of traditional Ports ranging from Vintage and aged Tawny Ports to distinctive single-harvest Colheitas, preserving the history and traditions of one of Portugal’s most celebrated wine regions.

Fresh, floral and beautifully balanced, the 2009 White Colheita combines the vibrancy of Douro white grapes with the complexity and elegance of extended wood aging.

Maynard’s White Colheita Port 2009 750ml

te Pā Wines · Oke · Marlborough 2024

Oke is te Pā’s barrel-fermented take on Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, bringing ripe fruit, bright acidity and integrated oak into a more textured, savory style. Fruit from the Lower Wairau and Awatere valleys balances the Wairau’s generosity with the Awatere’s freshness, herbal lift and mineral tension.

Expert Reviews · 2024

Wine Enthusiast · 94 Points · Editors’ Choice
This oak-aged wine, from unique, ultra maritime blocks owned by Maori family, the MacDonalds, drinks more like a white Bordeaux than your typical Marlborough Savvy B. It's nutty and smokey, with a mineral thread through the lemon and grapefruit. It all comes together on the palate where a rush of mouthwatering salted citrus acidity is padded out by the creamier, toastier textural elements. With beautiful linearity and tautness, this should age gracefully for another 7-8 years. But why wait? It's drinking deliciously now.

James Suckling · 93 Points
This sauvignon blanc has aromas of dried lemons, wild herbs and some mangoes. Medium-bodied with fresh acidity. Direct and succulent texture. Driven and seductive, with a lively finish.

Vinous · 92 Points
The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc Oke is an intriguing, barrel-fermented expression, combining the varietal fruity/green tones with well-judged oak. Oak-derived vanilla and grilled nuts underscore blackcurrant, nectarine and green herbs. Dry and firm with fine texture and a long, scented finish, the 2024 is ready to enjoy. However, it also has the structure and substance to evolve gracefully over the coming five to eight years, particularly under screw cap.

Wine Spectator · 92 Points
Distinctive, rich and succulent, with litsea oil, grilled lemon and beeswax notes that add an appealing savory element, plus a touch of coconut water that complements the peach, lemon curd and dried mango flavors. A honeysuckle detail lingers on the finish.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate · 91 Points
The 2024 Oke Sauvignon Blanc is an oaked style of Sauvignon Blanc, and the élevage is an integral part of this wine. I find Sauvignon Blanc and oak to be awkward bedfellows, the former so easily swamped by the latter despite its propensity for exuberant fruit expression. This is the case with this wine; however, the fruit shows excellent endurance through the long finish. For fans of this style, it will be popular, and it is clear that it has been executed with sophistication in mind. Te Pa is a member of the Appellation Marlborough Wine (AMW) group. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Winemaking

The Sauvignon Blanc is fermented in 320-liter French oak barrels with indigenous and selected yeasts. Lees contact builds weight and texture, while barrel maturation brings the oak and fruit into balance for a layered, savory expression.

Tasting Notes

Ripe citrus, pear and stone fruit meet tropical notes and citrus blossom. Smoky, flinty nuances sit alongside toasted nuts, vanilla and spice. Bright citrus acidity keeps the concentrated palate lively through a long, mineral-tinged finish.

About te Pā

Family-owned te Pā was founded by Haysley MacDonald. The MacDonald family traces its connection to the Wairau Bar and surrounding land back approximately 800 years to some of the earliest Māori settlers in the region, and that connection continues to inform the estate’s relationship with the land and sea.

Food Pairings

Pair with grilled or roasted fish, shellfish, lobster, scallops, roast chicken, rich soft cheeses, seafood in butter or cream sauces, or dishes with citrus and fresh herbs.

At a Glance

• Producer: te Pā Wines
• Wine: Oke Sauvignon Blanc
• Vintage: 2024
• Country: New Zealand
• Region: Marlborough
• Subregions: Lower Wairau Valley and Awatere Valley
• Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
• Style: Dry, barrel-fermented white wine
• Alcohol: 13%
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Closure: Screw cap

A textured, savory Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, with freshness to balance richer seafood and poultry dishes.

Château Simard | Saint-Émilion AOC | Bordeaux, France | 2015

Château Simard has a history rooted in the very foundations of Saint-Émilion. The estate takes its name from Johan de Las Symas, a Jurat of Saint-Émilion in the 15th century who founded the village of Simard — where the Vauthier family's two estates are currently located. The vineyard was purchased in 1954 by Claude Mazière, and in 2008 his nephew Alain Vauthier — the celebrated proprietor of Château Ausone, one of Bordeaux's most iconic estates — took the reins. The estate has thus remained in the same family for seven decades, and the Vauthier connection to Ausone brings world-class winemaking expertise to every vintage.

Located in the southern valley of Saint-Émilion running down to the plain, the 40-hectare estate is planted on a patchwork of clay-limestone, sand, and gravel soils. The blend is 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon — though the 2015 is composed of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. After manual harvesting and meticulous berry sorting, the wine is fermented and aged primarily in concrete and stainless-steel tanks to preserve freshness and roundness, with approximately 30% oak. The result is a wine of pure fruit, concentration, and generosity — the very definition of Saint-Émilion's accessible, pleasure-driven style.

The 2015 is a superb vintage for Saint-Émilion. Medium to deep garnet-purple in the glass. The nose is vibrantly scented with red currants, black cherries, warm plums, violets, oranges, lemons, and fragrant earth. On the palate, medium-bodied, very fine, fruity, and elegant — ripe, fine-grained tannins, wonderful freshness, and a red cherry lift on the finish. Silky, juicy, and delicious. Ready to drink now or hold.

Pair with roast lamb, duck confit, beef bourguignon, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

• Producer: Château Simard (Vauthier Family / Château Ausone)
• Appellation: Saint-Émilion AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
• Vintage: 2015
• Vinification: Concrete & stainless-steel tanks; ~30% oak aging
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2015

• Wine Advocate — 91 pts: Vibrantly scented of red currants, black cherries and warm plums with hints of violets and fragrant earth. Medium-bodied, very fine, fruity and elegant with ripe, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness. Finishes with a red cherry lift.
• James Suckling — 91 pts: Oranges and lemons with blackberry and dark-earth character. Full-bodied, round, juicy and silky. Delicious and soft. A gorgeous wine. Drink now or hold.
• Vinous Media — 90 pts: Intense and dark — succulent jammy fruit with exotic spice, leather and rose petal overtones wrapping around the juicy finish. An attractive, early-drinking Simard.

Château Pipeau is a fourth-generation estate founded in 1929 in Saint-Émilion, on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, where many of the world’s greatest Merlot-based wines are produced.

Winemaker Jean Mestreguilhem, son of the current owners, worked at Château de Fieuzal in Pessac-Léognan and Screaming Eagle in Napa Valley before returning to his family estate.

The property includes 25 hectares of clay-limestone and deep sandy soils planted to 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc, with an average vine age of 40 years.

Grass grows naturally between the vine rows, while careful debudding and green harvesting limit yields and maximize quality. Canopy management and early harvesting help preserve freshness. The grapes are sorted first on the vine and then again on a sorting table.

“This is an intriguingly delicious wine, starting off with a waft of warm nutmeg and cinnamon. The palate is balanced but assertive, with ripe black plum and bramble fruit.”

—Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer

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This expressive Saint-Émilion Grand Cru comes from a historic, family-owned estate situated at the foot of the Saint-Émilion hillside on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Founded by Georges Mestreguilhem in 1929, Château Pipeau has remained in the same family for four generations and is now directed by Jean Mestreguilhem with the support of his father, Richard. The estate has grown from its original seven hectares to approximately 25 hectares of vines located just three kilometers from the village of Saint-Émilion.

The vineyard is planted predominantly to Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines average approximately 40 years of age and are rooted in a combination of clay-limestone soils and deep sands. These contrasting soils help produce a wine that combines the generosity and plush fruit of Merlot with freshness, structure, and aromatic complexity.

Château Pipeau follows environmentally conscious vineyard practices and holds Haute Valeur Environnementale certification. Grass is maintained between the vineyard rows to encourage healthy soils and biodiversity, while careful debudding, green harvesting, and leaf removal are used to control yields and promote even ripening. The grapes are harvested both manually and mechanically before undergoing precise optical sorting at the winery.

Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with gentle macerations lasting approximately three to four weeks and daily pump-overs to extract color, flavor, and tannin without sacrificing finesse. A traditional vertical press is used to preserve the integrity of the fruit. Most of the wine is then matured for 12 to 14 months in new French oak barrels, while a smaller portion remains in stainless steel to retain freshness and vibrant fruit character.

The 2022 vintage opens with generous aromas of ripe black plum, crushed blackcurrant, raspberry, and wild strawberry. Layers of nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, tobacco, and subtle toasted oak add depth and complexity. The palate is rich and assertive, yet balanced by freshness, with ripe dark fruit, bramble, warm spice, and polished tannins carrying through the finish. A professional tasting of the vintage also noted its deep, fresh aromatic profile and awarded it 90 points.

Approachable in its youth with decanting, this wine also has the concentration and structure to develop further in the cellar. It is an excellent match for roast lamb, grilled steak, beef tenderloin, duck, braised short ribs, mushroom dishes, and firm aged cheeses.

Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
Region: Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2022
Grape Varieties: 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Soils: Clay-limestone and deep sand
Average Vine Age: Approximately 40 years
Farming: Environmentally responsible; HVE certified
Vinification: Temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks with gentle maceration
Aging: Approximately 12–14 months, primarily in new French oak
Bottle Size: 750ml

Serving Recommendation: Serve at approximately 60–65°F. Decant for one to two hours when drinking young to allow the fruit, spice, and tannins to fully open.

Magoutes Siatista Rosé — Macedonia, Greece 2025

Magoutes Vineyard sits at 800 metres above sea level in the rugged, inhospitable region of Siatista in northern Macedonia — one of Greece's most compelling and least-known wine territories. Winemaker Dimitri Diamantis practices radical low-intervention viticulture: spontaneous fermentation, gentle racking off skins, and aging in old barrels to finish. The vineyard holds sway over everything.

This rosé is a blend of 80% Xinomavro and 20% Moschomavro — an über-rare indigenous variety (meaning "black Muscat") grown almost exclusively by Diamantis. The result is a wine of delicate partridge-eye color, subtly aromatic with hints of redcurrants and fraises de bois, wonderfully fruity within a structured core of zingy acidity. A rosé of real character and place.

• Producer: Magoutes Vineyard, Siatista, Macedonia, Greece
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Siatista, Macedonia
• Blend: 80% Xinomavro, 20% Moschomavro
• Style: Dry, structured, low-intervention rosé
• Vinification: Spontaneous fermentation, old barrel aging
• Format: 750ml
• Best Paired With: Grilled seafood, mezze, roasted vegetables, feta salads, lamb kebabs

A high-altitude Greek rosé of rare character — Xinomavro and Moschomavro from the mountains of Macedonia.

Tura Winery Mountain Vista Sauvignon Blanc Kosher — Samaria, Israel 2023

Tura Winery is a family estate founded by Vered and Erez Ben-Saadon on 20 square kilometers of land in the village of Bracha, in the Samaria region of the West Bank highlands. Erez, who grew up in Jerusalem and served in the paratroopers, returned to his first love — farming and the land — and together with Vered built one of Israel’s most celebrated boutique wineries from the ground up. The estate grows its own grapes, ferments, ages, and bottles on-site, meeting the strict requirements of a true estate winery. Tura’s wines have won numerous awards through blind tastings, earning a devoted following among Israeli and international wine lovers alike. The Mountain Vista Sauvignon Blanc is a dry, aromatic white that captures the freshness and altitude of the Samarian highlands.

Straw yellow in color. The nose is bright and aromatic: passion fruit, green apple, and honeysuckle flowers. On the palate, the wine is light-bodied with refreshing acidity and flavors of melon, white pomelo, and guava — clean, fruit-forward, and perfectly suited to the table.

• Producer: Tura Winery, Bracha, Samaria, Israel
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Mountain Vista, Samaria
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Style: Dry white wine
• Certification: Kosher
• Size: 750ml
• Serve: 8–10°C (46–50°F)
• Tasting Notes: Passion fruit, green apple, honeysuckle, melon, white pomelo, guava, refreshing acidity
• Best Paired With: Light meals, cheese platters, grilled fish, salads, sushi

A kosher estate Sauvignon Blanc from one of Israel’s most celebrated boutique wineries — Tura Mountain Vista is the Samarian white that earns its place on any table.

Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon — Sonoma County 2022

Ferrari-Carano is one of Sonoma County’s most celebrated family-owned wineries, founded in 1981 by Don and Rhonda Carano on the benchlands of Dry Creek Valley. Over four decades, they have built a reputation for estate-driven wines of exceptional quality and consistency — wines that express the warmth, generosity, and complexity of Sonoma County at its best. The Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is their benchmark red: a bold, structured wine sourced from select Sonoma County vineyards and crafted by Senior Red Winemaker Rebecka Deike. The 2022 is a distinctive blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Syrah — an unconventional but inspired combination that adds plush texture and savory depth to the classic Cabernet framework. James Suckling awarded it 92 points; Wine Enthusiast 91 points.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is rich and layered: damson plums, tobacco leaves, cedar, and licorice, with concentrated aromas of roasted cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper adding complexity and intrigue. On the palate, it is full-bodied and generous — firmly framed tannins, a plush mouthfeel, and flavors of blackberry, licorice, and toasty barrel spices that linger along a neatly balanced finish. Fruity yet savory, structured yet approachable — very generous and giving for the price.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Aromas of damson plums, tobacco leaves, cedar and licorice. The full-bodied palate has firmly framed tannins and a plush mouthfeel. This is a fruity yet savory blend of 78% cabernet sauvignon and 22% syrah. Very generous and giving for the price. Drink or hold.”

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
“Concentrated aromas of roasted cherry, cocoa powder and black pepper dominate the nose of this Cab. The palate is rich and broad, with flavors of blackberry, licorice and toasty barrel spices that linger along the neatly balanced finish.”

• Producer: Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Sonoma County
• Blend: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Syrah
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bold, plush, fruit-forward Sonoma County Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Damson plum, roasted cherry, tobacco, cedar, licorice, cocoa, blackberry, toasty spice
• Drink Window: Now–2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, BBQ, aged cheddar, dark chocolate

Two critics, two 90+ scores — Ferrari-Carano 2022 is Sonoma County Cabernet at its most generous.

Winemaker Description

Ruby red. Aromas of cherries, plums, raspberries, and black pepper. Refined, light tannins and bright acidity make this a lifting, fruity wine.

Pair with salumi, tomato and meat-based sauces and pizza Margherita.

Memo Summary Notes

Vibrant, volcanic red wine that serves as a historic benchmark for the Campania region. Produced by the legendary Mastroberardino family—who famously saved many of southern Italy's indigenous grapes from extinction—this wine is made from 100% Piedirosso grapes grown in the mineral-rich ash of Mount Vesuvius.

The Dalton Alma Rosé is a dry, elegant kosher rosé from Israel's Galilee region, crafted from handpicked Grenache and Pinot Gris. Aged six months, it delivers a refined balance of fresh red fruit, floral notes, and a crisp, lingering finish. Best enjoyed well-chilled alongside grilled fish, spicy cuisine, or Mediterranean mezze.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 90 Points | Medium- to full-bodied, this is juicy and succulent with a saline note and dried herbs, the dark fruit well defined and balanced. 70% merlot and 30% cabernet franc. Try after 2028.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2023 Château Saint-André Corbin is a high-value Bordeaux red from Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion, the smallest of the "satellite" appellations of Saint-Émilion. This vintage continues the estate’s reputation for producing "Right Bank" wines that punch well above their price point.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2024 Domaine de la Grand’Cour (Jean-Louis Dutraive) Brouilly "Vieilles Vignes" is a highly sought-after, low-intervention Cru Beaujolais. While the 2024 vintage is just beginning to reach the market (following the 2023 release), it continues the Dutraive family tradition of producing wines that are "natural" in spirit but precise and elegant in profile.

This specific cuvée is an outlier for Jean-Louis Dutraive, whose estate is primarily based in Fleurie. The fruit comes from a 1.6-hectare parcel of vines (some over 100 years old) in Charentay. Unlike the granite-heavy soils of Fleurie, this Brouilly site features limestone and clay, which lends the wine a more muscular, savory, and mineral-driven character.

Importer Notes

On more than one occasion, Jean-Louis Dutraive has been fondly referred by his peers as "the heart of Beaujolais". The Dutraive family home and the Domaine de la Grand'Cour are one in the same, and there is a constant flow of visiting vignerons from every generation for lunches, dinners, casse-croûte ("breaking of bread"), walks in the vines, and tastings in the cellar. Jean-Louis' door is always open, as are his bottles. He makes himself regularly available to young people in the region who are interested in farming naturally, and he is among the first to lend a hand, a tractor, or words of advice to colleagues. Of course, his influence is most felt by his three children with whom he collaborates on the Famille Dutraive label. Daughter Ophélie assumed the helm of Domaine de la Grand'Cour in recent years. While Jean-Louis's presence is always felt, even when he is away enjoying his retirement home in the Jura, Ophélie has a deep connection to her vines and a deft hand in the cellar.

Domaine de la Grand Cour dates back to 1969 when it was purchased by Jean Dutraive, making it one of the oldest in the village of Fleurie. Jean Dutraive was joined by his son and fifth generation vigneron Jean-Louis in 1977. By 1989, the reins were fully in Jean-Louis’s capable hands. The foundation of the property are the lieux-dits of Clos de la Grand Cour, Chapelle des Bois and Champagne which make up a total of 9 hectares of vines in Fleurie, surrounding the house and cellars. Additionally, the family has 1.6 hectares in the cru of Brouilly where the Dutraive family originates. The average age of the vines are around 40-50 years, with a good chunk over 70 years of age.

The family are regarded as trailblazers in natural viticulture, and they continue to serve as a shining example of farmers who work in tandem with nature. Harvest is done by hand and grapes are immediately placed in tank at low temperatures to begin carbonic maceration (without sulfur). The wines ferment naturally with indigenous yeast and are macerated on the skins for anywhere from 15-30 days depending on the vintage and the particular wine. The wines are then gravity fed to the cellar for a period of ageing of 6-15 months, depending on the cuvée. Elevage occurs mostly in used burgundy barrels, though the Fleurie Grand'Cour, Fleurie Chapelle des Bois and Brouilly are sometimes aged at least partially in old foudres or cement tanks depending on the vintage. S02 is rarely added during the élévage, only when necessary, though a small amount is added when the wines are racked and assembled for bottling. And in general, no fining and filtration is used unless absolutely required. In the words of Jean-Louis, he practices "low intervention, high surveillance" winemaking. 

The Dutraive lineup includes some of the most aromatically and texturally unique wines in all of Beaujolais. One whiff and the wines give an almost exotic floral and spicy aroma, followed by lush minerally Gamay fruit, sort of like a top Morey St. Denis 1er or Grand Cru nose combined with earthy, Volnay-like fruit. There is also a textural lushness and exuberance backed up by ample structure and acid. These are substantial Beaujolais, and ones that could certainly stand up to food. They also have the requisite material to develop and evolve over the medium term, i.e. 10-12 years of aging - easily! Jean-Louis and his Domaine de la Grand'Cour wines have more than earned their place in the top ranks of today's Beaujolais domaines. 

Expert Review — Vintage 2017

James Suckling 96 Points | Released after seven years in bottle. Delicate yet complex aromas of finger limes, grapefruit, kerosene, sage oil, preserved lemons, gun smoke and salted nuts. The palate is high tension, with an intense concentration of flavors coiled around a textural palate and striking acidity. Made from vines planted in 1965 — this has years of life ahead. Excellent. Drink or hold.

About The Contours Museum Reserve

Pewsey Vale’s The Contours is their flagship museum-release Riesling, sourced from the coolest south-facing slope of the estate in the high-altitude Eden Valley, South Australia. The vines were planted in 1965, making them among the oldest Riesling plantings in the region.

What makes this wine special: Pewsey Vale holds it in their cellars for five to seven years before release, so you receive a bottle that has already begun its transformation into a complex, aged masterpiece — no patience required on your end.

Tasting & Pairings

Finger lime, grapefruit, kerosene, sage oil, preserved lemon, gun smoke, and salted nuts. High-tension acidity with intense concentration and a textural, coiled palate. Serve well chilled.

• Kingfish crudo or oysters with lime mignonette — classic pairing for aged Riesling.
• Five-spice duck breast or tofu Pad Thai — the acidity balances spice and oil beautifully.

Maison Sichel Margaux 2022 750ml

The Sichel House is renowned for its high-quality wines, and the Maison Sichel Margaux 2022 is no exception. This wine is a remarkable embodiment of the rich heritage of the Margaux region. Crafted with carefully selected grapes, this vintage delivers a beautiful balance between strength and finesse. The year 2022 yielded exceptional fruit characteristics, allowing the winemakers to produce a wine that showcases both elegance and complexity. The result is a full-bodied red that delights the palate and invites exploration, making it a superb addition to any wine collection.

Expert Recognition - 2022 Vintage

James Suckling - 92 Points
"Plush plums, redcurrants, tobacco and some sweet spices. Fluid and evenly packed on the palate with medium body and juicy, firm tannins. Lightly peppery in the medium-length finish. Cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Drink now."

Grape Blend

Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Petit Verdot
This classic Bordeaux blend showcases the best of Margaux's terroir and winemaking tradition.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep ruby red with deep violet tints indicating richness
Aroma: Expressive, ripe bouquet displaying all the finesse and elegance typical of the Margaux terroir. Complexity on the nose with overripe, jammy red fruit aromas, blackcurrant, plush plums, redcurrants, vanilla, spice, tobacco, and sweet spices. Swirling brings out more oaky, toasty notes denoting traditional ageing in oak barrels which blend harmoniously with the fruity aromas
Palate: Fluid and evenly packed with medium body. Concentrated and generous but not capricious, highly expressive. Rich flavors including chocolate, vanilla, and mild tobacco. Juicy, firm tannins of the highest quality. Well-integrated tannins. Lightly peppery
Finish: Long, lingering finish with medium-length. Lightly peppery character

Margaux Appellation Excellence

Situated 25km from Bordeaux, the Margaux appellation covers five municipalities and is the only one in the Médoc where you find the entire, rich and vast range of wines, from the first to the fifth Grand Cru Classé. Margaux wines are particularly supple and refined. They are characterized by very elegant, fruity aromas, making them the benchmark for generous, sophisticated wines with soft ripe tannins.

Vineyard Terroir

The vineyard area of Margaux is essentially based on the Garonne's layers, made up of gravel and pebbles from the quaternary period. This soil, well protected from the oceanic winds by the forest, benefits from the bracing winds from the Gironde estuary which tempers the climate. The soil's poorness, the gravel's permeability, and the slightly sloping hillsides that provide good drainage allow the vines to be deep rooted, providing the ideal conditions for top quality wines.

Traditional Winemaking

Harvest: When fully mature, the grapes are for the most part hand-picked
Vinification: Grapes are crushed and destemmed, then put into fermenters. The harvest is heated to around 22°C to allow a quick start to fermentation. Twice daily pumping over with aeration takes place to extract maximum color and tannin. After alcoholic fermentation, vats are maintained at around 30°C for 15 to 21 days
Aging: 6 to 8 months aging in French oak barrels with racking every 4 weeks. Traditional aging in oak barrels creates oaky, toasty notes that blend harmoniously with fruity aromas
Finishing: Wines are fined and filtered on earth before bottling

One of the Greatest Bordeaux Vintages

The product of one of the greatest Bordeaux vintages, the 2022 showcases exceptional fruit characteristics and winemaking expertise. The wine's structure is both robust and refined, making it ideal for aging while also being enjoyable now. This vintage offers a delightful experience that evolves over time, showcasing the winemaking expertise of Sichel House.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This exquisite wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing both the food and the wine experience:

• Hearty red meats - grilled lamb or beef
• Rich gourmet cheeses
• Mushroom risotto
• Savory pastas
• Roasted meats
• Elegant dinner parties

Serving Suggestions

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Maison Sichel Margaux 2022 slightly below room temperature, allowing its full bouquet to unfold. This wine promises to elevate any dining occasion and impress even the most discerning palates.

Sichel House Heritage

The Sichel House is renowned for producing high-quality wines that embody the rich heritage and tradition of Bordeaux winemaking. Each sip reveals layers of complexity and elegance, showcasing the finesse typical of the Margaux terroir. With its beautiful balance between strength and refinement, this wine represents the benchmark for generous, sophisticated Bordeaux wines with soft ripe tannins.

Winemaker Description 

One Sparkling Rose & Brut in party gift box. Kosher. 

A premium Italian prosecco made for celebrating life's moments, big and small. Made with an attention to detail that gives it a distinct, bold aesthetic and unique voice, Vera Wang Party is a light, refreshing, and effervescent wine,with a playful yet sophisticated tone.

Vera Wang was integral in each step of the production process- from selecting the wine to designing the bottles.

Memo Summary Notes

The Vera Wang Party Pack is a curated duo featuring the designer's premium Italian sparkling wines, both crafted to be high-fashion, high-quality, and fully compliant with kosher standards.

• Tasting Notes: Effervescent and crisp with appealing aromas of green apple and stone fruits. The palate is light and refreshing with bright citrus notes and a soft, fruity finish.

• Style: Dry, playful, and sophisticated. 

  • Brunch: Perfect for high-end Bellinis or Mimosas.

  • Savory: Pairs excellently with charcuterie, Parmesan cheese, spicy Chinese takeout, fried chicken, or sushi.

Expert Reviews 

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Oyster shell, smoke and fleur de sel aromas lead on the nose of this mouthwatering Champagne, while the plush, creamy mousse carries flavors of poached quince, tangerine sorbet, candied ginger and brioche. Long and minerally on the well-cut and re- freshing finish. Pinot Noir, Meunier and Chardonnay.

James Suckling 91 Points | A silky Champagne with aromas of apricot pie, shortcrust, croissants, lemon curd and seashells. Very fine, soft bubbles. Gentle salinity underneath the pastry notes, with a soft finish. Drink now.

Memo Summary Notes

The Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut is the signature, non-vintage blend of this prestigious Champagne house, famous for its delicate floral notes and Art Nouveau-inspired bottle design.

Its balanced nature and subtle floral notes make it a phenomenal aperitif, but it also pairs beautifully with lighter, more delicate dishes.

• Seafood: Oysters (a classic pairing), shrimp/prawns, or fish carpaccio.

• Poultry: Oven-fried chicken or braised chicken with lemon and thyme.

• Appetizers: Crisp vegetables, tofu dishes, or delicate pastries.

Winemaker Description 

Light amber, golden hue, with a pronounced varietal aroma and taste. Characterized by aromas of ripe quince, jams and dried fruits. The wine is harmonious, balanced with tannins and acidity.

The Marnaveli Kisi-Khikhvi Amber Wine 2023 is a traditional Georgian "orange" or skin-contact wine produced in the Kakheti region. This wine is crafted using the ancient Qvevri method—fermenting and aging the grapes in large, beeswax-lined clay vessels buried underground.

Has a long ending. Ideal for dried apricots and figs. Churchkhela, cheese and honey, as well as seafood and white meat. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2021

Mike DeSimone of The Wine Enthusiast writes 94 Points | Medium straw colored, this wine has a bouquet of carambola, crème brûlée and honeysuckle. A soft floral note joins white peach, jasmine, lemongrass and dried apricot flavors set into a full-textured wine with well-matched acidity. Notes of wildflowers and bright citrus fruit endure on the palate.

Winemaker Description 

Made of 100% Istrian Malvasia grape from four vineyards (Kastanjari, Vrh, Santa Lucia, Baredine) located on the west coast of Istria, in an area called Buje (in Croatian, Bujstina), just 50 miles away from Venice. They are 100 meters high on a little hill, a few miles away from the shore. Aged in stainless steel vats on fine lees. Look for alluring aromas of camomile, acacia, lime zest, quince, pear, apricot and ripe nectarine.
 

Expert Reviews 

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The NV Brut Pinot de Diel is an assemblage of Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir, a réserve perpetuelle predominantly harvested in 2021. Aged sur lattes for two years and disgorged with a dosage of four grams per liter in May 2024, the wine opens with deep, bright and fresh, lemony fruit intertwined with delicate brioche, sur lie and also flinty terroir aromas. Round but dry and fresh on the palate, this is a medium to full-bodied Brut with a clear, long and mouth-cleansing finish. It's excellent in structure, complexity and length. 12% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in Burg Layen in February 2025.

James Suckling 92 Points | This creamy, barely medium-bodied sparkling wine tastes very French, with appealing aromas and flavors of yellow apples, brioche and flint. The lively mousse deftly lifts the long candied-citrus finish. A cuvee based on the 2022 vintage plus some reserve wine, disgorged June 2025. Drink now.

Producer Notes

Variety: Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris (co-planted and co-fermented) • Region: Nahe • Vineyard: Various estate sites • Soil Type: Slate & quartzite • Fermentation & Élevage: Stainless steel fermentation and aging, minimum 20 months en tirage, dosage is sweet Pinot Gris aged in barrique.

Memo Summary Notes

The Schlossgut Diel Pinot de Diel Brut NV is a sophisticated German sparkling wine (Sekt) from the Nahe region. While many German sparkling wines are made from Riesling, this specific cuvée is a "Pinot" blend, modeled after the traditional Champagne style but with a distinct German terroir.

Schlossgut Diel is one of Germany’s most prestigious estates. While they are famous for their Grand Cru Rieslings, Caroline Diel spent time training in Champagne, and that influence is clear here. The "Pinot de Diel" is designed to be their "luncheon" sparkling—elegant enough for a celebration but versatile enough for the table.

Food Pairings

• Classic: Raw oysters, sashimi, or lightly fried calamari.

• German Pairing: Veal schnitzel with a squeeze of lemon.

• Casual: It is famously good with high-quality salty snacks like truffle popcorn or Marcona almonds.

Winemaker Description 

This wine’s tart, spiky glints of passion fruit tease the nose amidst all its lemony freshness. With a little air, the passion fruit note grows smoother and fuller. The palate glows in this fruitiness and complements it with creamy richness. It’s lovely and seductive now but sure to get even better.

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

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points Aleks Zecevic | A whiff of rose water is followed by nectarine and apricot notes in this nicely balanced Spätlese. It's on the rich side, with submerged acidity, but the finish is lasting and inviting.

A striking single-vineyard expression from the sandy, mineral-rich soils of Mt. Etna’s northwestern flank. Made primarily from old-vine Nerello Mascalese, it offers fine tannins, bright red fruit, and a savory, stony core. This is one of Eduardo’s most refined and site-specific wines—elegant, earthy, and deeply expressive of Etna’s unique terroir.

Eric Guido said of the 2022 vintage - 94+ Points - The 2022 Nerello Mascalese Arenaria takes its time in the glass. It is darkly floral and spiced with a smoldering blend of blackberries and grilled herbs offset by a tinge of tangerine. This impresses further with its combination of tart wild berries and zesty citrus tones elevated by juicy acidity over a stream of silken textures. Complex yet wildly energetic, the 2022 leaves the palate reeling as licorice comes together with black raspberry and cocoa over a bed of fine-grained tannins. The Arenaria is painfully young today yet full of potential, displaying incredible depth and refinement. In a word, spellbinding."

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

James Suckling 93 Points | An enticing but well-balanced wine that combines a super-creamy texture with vivid tropical fruit, poached pears and baking spices. It's all barrel-fermented in about 30% oak and shows the characteristic toast, dough and light butter notes of an excellent chardonnay. Affordable for the quality. Drink now or hold.

Expert Review

2018 Jacques Capsouto Cuvee Marco, Grand Vin Rouge – Score: 90 Points |
This wine is a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, and 20% Syrah. The nose on this wine starts ripe, it is riper than its younger 2019 brother, the Cuvee Samuel. The blend is different as well, and there is much more oak on the Marco. The nose on this wine is ripe, it feels like a Cali Rhone wine more than how the 19 Samuel felt, with black and blue fruit, sweet oak, soy sauce, ripe plum, floral notes, dark and brooding, with roasted animal, and loam. The mouth on this full-bodied wine is ripe, balanced, with good acidity, blackcurrant, blackberry, boysenberry, nice draping tannin, sweet oak, loam, and black tea. The finish on this wine is ripe, with dense black fruit, loam, mushroom, graphite, milk chocolate, and nice smoke. 

40% Grenache Noir 30% Mourvedre 30% Syrah)- Aged in 3-4 yr old barrels for 12 months-

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

This wine displays a pale straw colour with brilliant green edge. On the nose the wine
opens with crisp green apple and lime blossom. This evolves to incorporate a complex
melange of lemongrass, petrichor and subtle blackcurrant leaf. The palate is bright
and refreshing with a focussed tension that suggests longevity and a characteristic
oyster shell salinity.

Food pairing: Best served cold and drunk as an aperitif or with fresh summer oysters,
fresh grilled yellowtail with salsa verde or salmon roses with kewpie mayo and caviar.

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

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

James Suckling 90 Points | Aromas of sliced lemons, white pepper, Asian pears and yellow apples. The palate is medium-bodied with bright acidity and a saline edge, giving flavors of passion fruit, cut grass and melon. Nicely balanced with a phenolic edge.

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

This Pinot Noir expresses black fruits like boysenberries and blueberries with subtle floral notes and gentle acidity. The cocoa powder tannins and smoky toasty notes add complexity with a generous earthy textural finish.

This wine pairs well with New Zealand lamb, but rich enough to enhance slow cooked beef cheeks. For a plant-based alternative, try with mushroom or truffle accented dishes to accentuate its earthy character.

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

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

Roundness and generosity! Mariflor Malbec has the complexity, the power and sensuality with deep aromas of black fruits and spices which will insure it the longevity, roundness and generosity make it pleasant to taste “primeur” or young.