90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

Zardetto | Prosecco DOC, Conegliano, Veneto, Italy | Brut | 187ml Split

Made from Glera grapes sourced from hillside vineyards northeast of Conegliano — the heartland of Prosecco DOC — Zardetto's Z Prosecco is bright, lively, and immediately appealing. A brief maceration preserves the Glera grape's natural citrus and tropical aromatics, while the second fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks locks in freshness and fine perlage. The 187ml split format is the perfect single-serve pour: for brunch, celebrations, or wherever a full bottle is one too many.

Grape: Glera
Method: Charmat (tank method)
Style: Brut
Drink: Now

Tasting Notes

• Sliced lemon, green apple, lime, and citrus blossom on the nose
• Light, lively perlage with vibrant citrus on the palate
• Medium body | Fresh, clean finish | Dry

Critical Acclaim

• 90 pts — James Suckling: "Plenty of fruit and intensity with sliced lemon and apple character. Fresh finish. Light bubble. Dry."
• 90 pts — Wine Enthusiast: "Fresh lemon, lime and citrus blossom... the palate pops with light perlage and vibrant citrus flavors. Clean and crisp on the finish."

Pairings: Aperitivo, oysters, light seafood, prosciutto, fresh fruit

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Michael Alberty of the Wine Enthusiast writes 93 Points | Every year I marvel at how such a marvelous Riesling can be $20. The Poet's Leap opens with an aromatic ode to lychee fruit, honeysuckle, almond butter and a wisp of petrol. Lemony acidity curls itself around flavors like green honeydew melon, rose water and the sweetness of a slice of peach pie. The 2023 is as good as any in recent memory. Mercy.

Vinous 90 Points | The 2023 Riesling Poet's Leap is delicate and understated, with notes of shaved lemon zest, green melon, mint and hints of petrol. It mixes ripe orchard fruits and salty mineral tones with a core of brilliant acidity. This finishes with medium length and remarkable lift, leaving a suggestion of citrus sorbet on the finish.

Winery Notes

The 2023 Poet's Leap Riesling is a beautiful, vibrant wine showcasing aromas of white blossoms and ripe orchard fruits, complemented by subtle flinty notes. Exuding freshness and brightness on the palate, the wine unveils layers of flavor, notably white peach, green apple and a distinct minerality. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a balanced impression of lively acidity and a subtle touch of sweetness.

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.

Château Branaire-Ducru · Saint-Julien · 2020 · 750ml

Château Branaire-Ducru 2020 combines cassis, plum and floral aromas with a concentrated core of fruit and fine, youthful tannins. The 2020 reviews emphasize depth, balance and a long finish, offering a structured Saint-Julien with both freshness and aging potential.

Producer & Terroir

The estate's history begins in 1680, when Jean-Baptiste Braneyre purchased part of Beychevelle. His descendants, the Du Luc family, built the château in 1824; it later passed to Gustave Ducru and remained in the family until 1919. Branaire-Ducru was classified a fourth growth in 1855. Patrick Maroteaux acquired it in 1988 and invested in the vineyards, cellar and château; François-Xavier Maroteaux took over in 2017.

Located between Margaux and Pauillac, the estate covers 60 hectares across about fifteen micro-terroirs in southern Saint-Julien. Gravel, pebbles and Quaternary alluvial soils favor Cabernet Sauvignon, while Merlot grows on clay. The estate reports an average vine age of 35 years and vineyard plantings of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. These are vineyard proportions, not the 2020 blend.

The estate reports HVE level 3 certification since 2017 and participation in the Bordeaux Wine Environmental Management System, based on ISO 14001, with certification since 2020. Later developments include the Cultivons Demain CSR label, level 2, in 2023 and a new gravity-fed vat room with 65 suspended vats in 2024; that vat room postdates this wine.

Expert Reviews · Vintage 2020

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate · 94 Points The 2020 Branaire-Ducru will require more patience than the supple, sensual 2019, but it is another strong effort for this overperforming estate. Wafting from the glass with aromas of crème de cassis, plums, pencil shavings, petals, burning embers and discreet hints of new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a concentrated core of vibrant fruit and fine but youthfully firm tannins that assert themselves on the gently chewy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck · 93+ Points Showing beautifully, the deeper purple/ruby-hued 2020 Château Branaire-Ducru offers a deep, masculine bouquet of blackcurrants, plums, smoked tobacco, and iron. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated, nicely balanced Saint-Julien with plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe, integrated tannins, and a great finish. Give bottles 4-5 years and enjoy over the following two decades or more.

James Suckling · 96 Points · Vintage Not Specified Plenty of blackberry, blueberry, lead pencil and violet aromas here that follow through to a full body, with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. So integrated and polished.Changes a lot in the glass. Thoughtful young red.

Decanter · 95 Points · Vintage Not Specified An intensely perfumed nose with soft cocoa powder aromas. The texture is alluring, juicy and ripe but lifted, quite dense but also linear, a push-pull of direct fruit and chalky, plump tannins. Rich but not as supple as 2018, a bit more angular. Black cherries, plums and currants on the palate with both a nice sweetness and salinity. Not so easy to taste and understand today, it's thought provoking with lots going on. Great potential for a long life and one to watch!!

Wine Enthusiast · 95 Points · Vintage Not Specified Rich, juicy and with dense tannins, this wine is full of generous blackberry fruit flavor. The tannins and impressive structure are what show promise for the future. Expect this wine to age well. Barrel Sample: 93-95

Wine Spectator · 94 Points · Vintage Not Specified This has a lovely floral lead followed quickly by a very pure and precise beam of cassis and bitter plum fruit. Shows ample structure but this is fine-grained and almost silky in feel, while subtle dark tea, savory and iron notes peek through on the lengthy finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2026 through 2038.

Winemaker Notes · 

Rich, intense color. An expressive nose, a sophisticated combination of pure black and red fruits. The palate is wonderfully smooth with powerful intensity, maintaining its fineness and elegance. A beautiful acidity, propelling the wine on a long finish.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pair with roast lamb, grilled beef, braised short ribs or savory mushroom dishes. Rich, deeply flavored food complements the wine's concentrated fruit and tannic structure.

Details

• Producer: Château Branaire-Ducru
• Vintage: 2020
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: France
• Region: Bordeaux
• Appellation: Saint-Julien
• Classification: Fourth Grand Cru Classé, 1855
• Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot
• Type: Red Bordeaux blend
• Estate Environmental Attributes: HVE level 3 since 2017; ISO 14001-based environmental certification since 2020

Taylor Fladgate · Porto · Late Bottled Vintage 2020

Taylor Fladgate pioneered the Late Bottled Vintage style, creating a Port matured longer in cask and ready to enjoy on release. The 2020 LBV draws on full-bodied Ports from estate vineyards and leading properties across the Cima Corgo and Douro Superior.

Deep purple with a ruby rim, this Port offers layered aromas of wild berries, plum, floral notes, and licorice. Rich yet refined on the palate, it combines vibrant dark fruit with firm, linear tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Vintage Notes

The 2020 growing season delivered exceptionally low yields. Early budburst, record July heat, adequate winter and spring rainfall, and a small August rain event accelerated ripening, bringing an early harvest and unusually high sugar levels.

Winemaker Description

Winemaker Description | Deep ruby core with vivid ruby rim. The nose is very fine and multi-layered, with rich strawberry jam aromas, herbal notes, and fresh scents of cedarwood. There is also a discrete dimension, a luxurious redolence of leather and mocha coffee. In contrast, and in keeping with the Taylor house style, the palate has an attractive edge of austerity with taut tannins providing a firm grip to the long finish which delivers a surge of rich berry fruit flavor.

Excellent with fully flavored cheeses, especially blue cheeses. It is also delicious with desserts made with chocolate or berry fruits.

Expert Reviews

Wine Spectator, 92 Points | Shows a nice core of dark currant and fig fruit that’s been steeped with anise, alder and bittersweet cocoa. Give this a little time in a decanter or cellar for another couple of winters. Possesses the stuffing to cover slow sipping over a weekend.

Pairing & Serving

Serve in a large wine glass to showcase its rich aromas. Pair with blue cheeses, chocolate desserts, or berry-based sweets. The producer describes this LBV as ready to enjoy without decanting; the Wine Spectator review recommends a little time in a decanter or additional cellaring.

Wine Details

• Producer: Taylor Fladgate
• Vintage: 2020
• Origin: Douro, Portugal
• Appellation: Porto
• Style: Late Bottled Vintage Port
• Grapes: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca
• Alcohol: 19%
• Residual sugar: 100 g/L
• Acidity: 4.60 g/L
• pH: 3.66
• Bottle size: 750ml

A richly layered LBV for a cheese course, a chocolate dessert, or a leisurely glass after dinner.

The golden-yellow exterior of Château Lafon-Rochet is visible from afar as one ascends the D2 road through the Médoc — a bold, warm landmark that reflects the passion and commitment of everyone who makes its wines. One of Saint-Estèphe's oldest estates, with origins dating to the 16th century, Lafon-Rochet was classified as a Quatrième Grand Cru Classé in 1855. In late 2021, the Lorenzetti family acquired the estate, bringing in Technical Director Christophe Congé — formerly of Lafite-Rothschild — to lead a new chapter of precision and ambition.

The Château Lafon-Rochet Saint-Estèphe 2022 750ml signals that new era emphatically. The 2022 vintage brings more richness and mid-palate intensity than in the past, while preserving the estate's signature elegance. Fresh strawberry and red cherry on the nose give way to a palate of gorgeous weight and suppleness — currants, cassis, graphite, dark chocolate, and crushed stone — with ripe, building tannins and a long, precise finish. Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls it "the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe." An exciting new chapter for a great estate.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Vinous (Antonio Galloni) — 95–97 Points: "Fabulous. Once again, Lafon-Rochet is the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe. The 2022 signals a new era for the château. It's an exciting time."
• Decanter — 95 Points: "An exceptional wine in 2022. Smooth and round, generous and deep, with lovely precision. Extremely complete and well made with control and finesse."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 95 Points: "Seriously good, concentrated, powerful expression with beautiful purity, ripe, building tannins, and a great finish."
• James Suckling — 94 Points: "Dark chocolate, cigar box, blackcurrants, white pepper and graphite. Very juicy and nicely chewy on the palate, with a full body and a tight, lengthy finish."
• Wine Advocate — 91 Points: "Rich, ripe, full-bodied, soft and fat palate with sweet jammy berries, fig preserve, licorice and creamy new oak."

Wine Details

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Saint-Estèphe AOC, 4ème Grand Cru Classé, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• 750ml

White Walnut Estate · Worden Hill Road · Dundee Hills · 2019

A biodynamically grown Oregon Chardonnay with layered fruit, bright acidity, and a sleek, creamy texture. The 2019 bottling brings together nectarine, citrus peel, and floral aromatics with the flinty detail and lingering finish highlighted in its expert review.

Producer & Place

White Walnut Estate’s supplied winemaker description identifies this wine as a regional blend showcasing the Dundee Hills AVA. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, it reflects the producer’s commitment to minimal-intervention winemaking.

Tasting Notes

Nectarine, honeysuckle, and bee pollen meet citrus peel, grilled pineapple, and apricot. Richness builds across the palate, balanced by fresh acidity and a smooth texture, with lemon-drop and mineral notes carrying through the finish.

Expert Review · 2019 Vintage

Year’s Best US Chardonnay, Wine & Spirits Magazine.

James Suckling, 94 Points | Grilled pineapple, apricot, hawthorn, burnt lime and flint on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with bright acidity and a sleek, creamy texture. Balanced, fresh and long. Beautiful expression. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink now or hold.

Winemaker Description

White Walnut Estate | The 2019 'Dundee Hills Chardonnay' is a regional blend showcasing the best of the Dundee Hills AVA. Refined aromas of nectarines, honeysuckle, and bee pollen ascend from the glass, coalescing with notes of citrus peel. Layers upon layers of richness extend across the palate and crescendo to a seamless, persistent finish with lingering notes of lemon drop candy. This wine has the energy and drive to drink young or over the next decade. This wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered showing our commitment to minimal intervention winemaking.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Try with seared scallops, roast chicken, halibut with lemon butter, or a mushroom tart. Serve chilled and allow a little time in the glass for the floral aromatics and layered texture to unfold.

Wine Details

• Producer: White Walnut Estate
• Listing designation: Worden Hill Road
• Vintage: 2019
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Appellation: Dundee Hills, Oregon
• Country: United States
• Farming: Biodynamically grown grapes, per James Suckling
• Bottling: Unfined and unfiltered
• Size: 750ml

A layered Dundee Hills Chardonnay that pairs generous texture with freshness and mineral detail.

Pellegrino Dry Old Marsala Superiore Secco is a benchmark expression of Sicily's most storied fortified wine, crafted by Cantine Pellegrino — one of Marsala's oldest and most respected houses, founded in 1880 in the sun-drenched western tip of the island. Aged to Superiore classification, this is a Marsala of genuine depth and complexity, made in the traditional dry (secco) style that showcases the wine's savory, nutty character without the sweetness of commercial versions.

Amber in the glass with warm golden highlights. The nose is immediately compelling: iodine, dried fig, roasted almond, and singed orange peel, with a whisper of ground clove and toffee that speaks to careful oxidative aging. On the palate, the wine is rich, smooth, and finely balanced — creamy in texture, with intense dried fruit flavors, a nutty core, and a long, lingering finish of clove and orange peel. Dry, complex, and deeply Sicilian.

Awarded 90 Points by Wine Spectator, this Marsala Superiore Secco is a rare find at this price — a serious fortified wine that rewards both the curious and the connoisseur. Superiore designation requires a minimum of two years of aging, and Pellegrino's meticulous cellaring shows in every sip.

Serve at room temperature as an aperitif, or well chilled alongside Parmigiano-Reggiano, prosciutto, pizza, or roasted nuts. An essential ingredient in classic Sicilian cooking — Chicken Marsala, Veal Marsala, and zabaglione.

Turnbull Wine Cellars | Napa Valley, California | 2023

Forty years of estate farming distilled into a single bottle. Turnbull's Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is grown, harvested, and crafted entirely on their own land — a commitment to the long view that shows in every sip. The 2023 vintage arrives with deep purple hues and a nose of crème de cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and violets. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied with layered texture, focused structure, and fine tannins that promise a decade or more of graceful aging.

This is estate Napa Cabernet at a remarkable value — a crowd-pleaser with the bones to cellar.

Blend: 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Drink: 2025–2038

Tasting Notes

• Crème de cassis, graphite, crushed stone, violets
• Dark plums, blackberries, black currants, cedar, tobacco
• Succulent red cherry, cinnamon, new leather, mocha
• Medium to full body | Fine, layered tannins | Balanced acidity

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2023 

• 93 pts — Jeb Dunnuck: "Beautifully pure aromatics... layered, fresh, focused mouthfeel... enough tannins to keep it drinking nicely for 10–15 years." Drink 2025–2038.
• 92 pts — James Suckling: "Full-bodied with fine tannins and balanced acidity... textural and fresh. Drink or hold."
• 91 pts — Vinous: "Positively stellar... a stellar value and a crowd-pleaser."

Turnbull. Stay true.

Tommasi · Rafael Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC · 2023

Tommasi Rafael Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2023 is an elegant, balanced Veneto red with vibrant cherry and plum fruit, a supple texture and refreshing acidity. This single-vineyard wine expresses the character of historic Valpolicella Classica through refined structure and freshness, continuing the Tommasi family’s winemaking tradition dating to 1902.

Named for the Rafael vineyard on Monte Masua, the first vineyard acquired by the Tommasi family, the wine holds a special place in the estate’s heritage. The vines are cultivated using the traditional Pergola Veronese training system, encouraging their characteristic elegance and aromatic complexity.

Winemaking

A traditional blend of 60% Corvina, 25% Rondinella and 15% Molinara undergoes temperature-controlled fermentation with 12 days of maceration. Fifteen months in large Slavonian oak casks develop complexity while preserving the purity and freshness of the fruit.

Tasting Notes

Bright ruby red in color, the 2023 vintage opens with ripe cherries, fresh plums and red berries, complemented by delicate floral notes and subtle herbs. The medium-bodied palate is supple and velvety, layering red cherry, dark fruit, licorice and gentle black pepper. Refreshing acidity, polished tannins and a savory, lightly spiced finish bring harmony and balance.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast, 93 Points · 2023: The 2023 vintage displays fresh plum and red fruit aromas complemented by savory herbs and delicate spice. The palate offers vibrant fruit, appealing texture and a pleasantly structured finish, reflecting the timeless character of traditional Valpolicella.

James Suckling, 91 Points · Vintage Not Specified: A complex and expressive wine showing dark fruit, prunes, red cherries, licorice and restrained black pepper. Medium-bodied with a velvety, creamy texture, refreshing acidity and a gently toasted finish.

Falstaff, 91 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Bright ruby red with aromas of ripe red fruit, subtle vanilla and butterscotch. The palate is elegant and slender, with lively acidity, smooth fruit flavors and a balanced finish.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 57–61°F (14–16°C) with pasta in rich tomato or meat sauces, roasted poultry, grilled meats, mushroom risotto, Italian antipasti or moderately aged cheeses. Elegant yet approachable, its lively freshness and balanced structure make it enjoyable on its own or alongside a wide variety of dishes.

Details

• Producer: Tommasi
• Wine: Rafael Valpolicella Classico Superiore
• Vintage: 2023
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Veneto
• Subregion: Valpolicella Classica
• Appellation: Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC
• Grapes: 60% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 15% Molinara
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Medium
• Vineyard: Rafael, Monte Masua
• Vine training: Pergola Veronese
• Vinification: Temperature-controlled fermentation with 12 days of maceration
• Aging: 15 months in large Slavonian oak casks
• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV

Elena Walch Selezione Alto Adige Chardonnay 2025 is an elegant and beautifully balanced white wine from one of northern Italy’s most respected family-owned estates. Located in Alto Adige, where the dramatic Dolomite mountains create ideal conditions for producing vibrant, expressive white wines, Elena Walch has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and a distinctive sense of place.

Originally trained as an architect, Elena Walch helped establish the winery’s international reputation through her pioneering approach to viticulture and winemaking. Today, her daughters Julia and Karoline continue the family legacy, bringing a new generation of expertise and dedication to the estate.

The 2025 Selezione Chardonnay showcases the freshness and finesse that make Alto Adige such an exciting region for this classic grape variety. Aromas of white peach, orchard fruits, and delicate floral notes mingle with subtle hints of blanched almonds and stony minerality. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and creamy, offering an appealing combination of ripe fruit, lively acidity, and elegant structure.

Its refreshing mineral character provides balance and precision, leading to a clean, harmonious finish. This is a Chardonnay that delivers richness without heaviness, making it both approachable and sophisticated.

Food Pairing: An excellent companion to grilled fish, shellfish, roasted poultry, creamy risotto, fresh pasta, and mild cheeses. Its bright acidity and rounded texture also make it a delightful aperitif.

Expert Ratings

91 Points — James Suckling, reviewed by Andrii Stetsiuk:  "White peaches and blanched almonds with a stony, mineral edge. Medium-bodied and creamy, yet fresh, with a clean finish. Drink now." — Andrii Stetsiuk, 2026

90 Points - Wines Spectator: "A fresh and floral version, with crisp acidity creating a buoyant frame for flavors of Gala apple, blood orange zest, green almond and mineral. Lightly chalky on the finish. Drink now. 3,400 cases made." — Alison Napjus, 2026

A beautifully crafted Alto Adige Chardonnay that combines alpine freshness, creamy elegance, and exceptional value.

Wine Specifications

• Producer: Elena Walch

• Wine: Selezione Chardonnay

• Country: Italy

• Region: Alto Adige (South Tyrol), Trentino-Alto Adige

• Appellation: Alto Adige DOC

• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay

• Wine Type: Dry White Wine

• Alcohol: 13% ABV

• Soil: Limestone

• Vineyard Exposure: Southeast-facing

• Vineyard Elevation: Mid-altitude vineyards reaching up to 600 meters (1,970 feet)

• Harvest: Entirely hand-harvested

• 2025 Harvest Season: August 27 through late September

• Vinification: Gentle pressing followed by low-temperature static clarification. Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at approximately 20°C (68°F).

• Maturation: Several months on fine lees in stainless steel tanks

• Oak Aging: None

• Residual Sugar: 0.8 g/L

• Total Acidity: 5.8 g/L

• Serving Temperature: 54–57°F (12–14°C)

• Aging Potential: 3–5 years

• Food Pairings: Mediterranean cuisine, seafood, freshwater fish, pasta, roasted poultry, and mild cheeses

About the 2025 Harvest

The 2025 growing season in Alto Adige delivered excellent conditions for producing fresh, balanced white wines. Following early flowering and a warm, dry June, cooler temperatures in July helped preserve the grapes' natural acidity. Favorable ripening conditions in August and a September marked by alternating sunshine and occasional rainfall allowed the grapes to reach optimal maturity. The resulting vintage combines expressive fruit character with freshness and balance.

Warre’s Warrior Finest Reserve Port · Douro, Portugal · 750ml

Warre’s Warrior Finest Reserve is a full-bodied Port from Portugal’s Douro region. The winemaker describes a deep red color and intensely rich aromas of ripe red fruit and spice, leading to a balanced palate and a long, complex finish.

Make it an after-dinner pour alongside cheese, nuts or dried fruit, as the producer suggests. The reviews preserved below highlight luscious fruit and spice; they describe earlier tastings, and their original drinking guidance is retained for context.

Winemaker Description

Deep red color, with intensely rich aromas of ripe red fruits and spices. On the palate well balanced and full-bodied, with a long and complex finish.

Superb with cheese, nuts or dried fruit after a meal.

Warre’s · Winemaker Description

Expert Reviews · Historical tastings

Review dates and bottling details are not specified in the existing listing. Wine Spectator’s original drinking window ended in 2025.

Wine & Spirits, 90 Points — Fresher in style than the Warrior of the '90s, this blend is bright and vibrant, filled with luscious fruit inflected by the black pepper of schisty tannins. It's like a small-scale vintage, beautifully balanced.

Wine Spectator, 90 Points — A fruity style, with luscious plum, raspberry and cherry flavors that are deep and rich. Asian spice and dark chocolate notes linger on the fresh, minerally finish. Drink now through 2025. 11,500 cases imported.

At a glance

• Producer: Warre’s
• Expression: Warrior Finest Reserve
• Origin: Douro, Portugal
• Style: Port
• Grapes listed: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca
• Size: 750ml
• Aromas: Ripe red fruit and spice
• Palate: Balanced and full-bodied
• Finish: Long and complex
• Pairings: Cheese, nuts and dried fruit

A rich, balanced Port for an after-dinner cheese board.

Tenuta Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2020 · Tuscany, Italy · 750ml

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 Reviews - Vintage 2020

James Suckling, 94 Points (2020): 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.

Decanter, 93 Points (2020): 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.

Wine Spectator, 93 Points (2020): 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.

Jeb Dunnuck, 92 Points (2020): 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.

Details

• Producer: Marchesi Frescobaldi
• Estate: Tenuta CastelGiocondo
• Vintage: 2020
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Region: Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy
• Appellation: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
• Grape: 100% Sangiovese Grosso
• Type: Dry, medium- to full-bodied red wine
• Alcohol: 14.5% ABV

The NV (2018) Brut Rosé Henriette is a blend of 90% Chardonnay from old vines in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger and 10% Pinot Noir from the south-facing slopes of Bouzy.

Vinous describes this release as a powerful, savory and serious Rosé Champagne, with complex notes of dried cherry, chalk, dried herbs and white pepper.

93 Points — Vinous Media The NV (2018) Brut Rosé Henriette is a blend of 90% Chardonnay from old vines in Mesnil with 10% Pinot Noir from the south-facing slopes of Bouzy, a pretty intriguing combination. Powerful and quite savory, the Henriette is very much a serious Rosé for the dinner table. Dried cherry, chalk, dried herbs and white pepper lend notable complexity throughout. This is a terrific showing for Moncuit's Rosé, the best I can remember tasting. Dosage is 8 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

Pierre Moncuit Henriette Brut Rosé Grand Cru (Base 2018)

Pierre Moncuit Henriette Brut Rosé Grand Cru is an elegant and distinctive Grower Champagne from one of the historic family estates of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Unlike the domaine's Blanc de Blancs bottlings, Henriette introduces Pinot Noir into the blend, bringing red-fruit character, additional structure and a more vinous personality while retaining the freshness and mineral precision that define the Pierre Moncuit style.

This release is based entirely on the 2018 harvest. Chardonnay from the Grand Cru vineyards of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger forms the core of the wine, complemented by Grand Cru Pinot Noir. The result is a beautifully balanced Rosé Champagne that combines Côte des Blancs finesse with the depth and savory character of Pinot Noir.

The wine is vinified in stainless steel, in keeping with Pierre Moncuit's philosophy of preserving freshness, purity of fruit and a clear expression of terroir. The finished Champagne carries a dosage of approximately 8 grams per liter, giving it a harmonious Brut profile while maintaining excellent freshness and definition.

In the glass, Henriette shows an attractive rosé hue and a fine, persistent mousse. Aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry are joined by suggestions of citrus peel, dried flowers, chalk and subtle spice. The palate is lively yet substantial, with bright red fruit framed by crisp acidity, mineral tension and a gently creamy texture.

This is a Rosé Champagne with enough depth and structure for the dinner table while remaining elegant enough to serve as an aperitif. Its combination of fruit, freshness and savory complexity makes it particularly versatile with food.

Wine Details

• Producer: Champagne Pierre Moncuit
• Cuvée: Henriette
• Style: Brut Rosé Grand Cru Champagne
• Base Vintage: 2018
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Primary Village: Le Mesnil-sur-Oger
• Classification: Grand Cru
• Grapes: Chardonnay & Pinot Noir
• Dosage: Approximately 8 g/L
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Tasting Notes

Expressive aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry mingle with delicate floral notes, citrus, chalk and spice. The palate is fresh and energetic, with fine bubbles, attractive fruit concentration and a mineral backbone. Subtle savory notes add complexity through the long, balanced finish.

Food Pairing

A particularly food-friendly Rosé Champagne, Henriette is excellent with salmon, tuna, lobster, shrimp, sushi, duck, charcuterie and roast poultry. It also pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses and dishes featuring mushrooms or gently savory sauces.

About Champagne Pierre Moncuit

Champagne Pierre Moncuit is a family-run Grower Champagne estate based in the celebrated Grand Cru village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Côte des Blancs. The Moncuit family has cultivated vines in the village since the late nineteenth century, developing a particular expertise with Chardonnay and the chalk-rich soils of Le Mesnil.

A distinctive feature of the domaine is its approach to non-vintage Champagne: rather than blending multiple harvests and reserve wines, Pierre Moncuit's NV cuvées are produced from a single harvest. This allows each release to express not only its vineyard origins but also the individual character of its growing season.

Henriette Brut Rosé Grand Cru offers a fascinating counterpoint to the domaine's celebrated Blanc de Blancs wines, combining the precision and mineral character of Le Mesnil Chardonnay with the richness and red-fruit expression of Pinot Noir.

Pierre Moncuit Coulmet Brut Blanc de Blancs (Base 2020) is a beautifully expressive Grower Champagne made from 100% Chardonnay sourced from the Côte de Sézanne, just south of the famed Côte des Blancs. Produced by the historic family-run house of Pierre Moncuit, this cuvée offers a fresh and approachable introduction to the domaine's elegant, Chardonnay-driven style.

Though labeled non-vintage, this release is based on the 2020 harvest. The wine is vinified in stainless steel and aged on the lees for approximately 24 months before release, giving it lovely texture and finesse while preserving its bright, mineral character.

In the glass, Coulmet opens with inviting aromas of white peach, lemon zest, green apple, fresh flowers, and light pastry notes. The palate is crisp and lively, with fine bubbles and flavors of citrus, orchard fruit, chalk, and subtle brioche. Clean, balanced, and refreshing — an exceptional aperitif and a wonderful match for shellfish, sushi, light seafood dishes, and soft cheeses.

A terrific value in Grower Champagne and a perfect bottle for those discovering the purity and charm of Blanc de Blancs.

"The NV (Base 2020) Brut Blanc de Blancs Coulmet, from vines in Sézanne, is soft, open-knit and gracious, all of which make it a fine choice for drinking now and over the next handful of years. Baked apple tart, apricot, dried flowers and spice are all beautifully laced together. This is such a pretty and alluring Champagne. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: May 2025."
— Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media | 91 VM

"The wine (Base 2020) offers up a lovely nose of pear, raw almond, chalky soil tones, bread dough and a topnote of white flowers. On the palate the wine is bright, zesty and full-bodied, with a good core of fruit, fine mineral undertow, elegant mousse, brisk acids and fine length and grip on the complex and well balanced finish. Good juice. (Drink between 2024–2045)"
— Jeb Dunnuck | 90 JD

Wine Details

• Producer: Pierre Moncuit
• Cuvée: Coulmet
• Style: Brut Blanc de Blancs
• Base Vintage: 2020
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Subregion: Côte de Sézanne
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Aging: Approx. 24 months sur lie
• Dosage: 7 g/L
• Disgorgement: May 2025

About Pierre Moncuit

Based in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne Pierre Moncuit is a historic family estate particularly renowned for its Chardonnay-based Champagnes. While the estate's flagship Delos cuvée comes from Grand Cru Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Coulmet draws from the family's holdings in the Côte de Sézanne — a region prized for its rounder, fruit-forward expression of Chardonnay.

Why We Like It

Coulmet delivers the hallmark precision and elegance of Pierre Moncuit at an accessible price point. The Côte de Sézanne fruit adds a generous, approachable character that makes this an ideal everyday Champagne — and a compelling introduction to the world of Grower Champagne.

DIRLER-CADÉ ALSACE RIESLING 2023 | 750ML

🇫🇷 France — Riesling | Alsace

A jolt of energy delivered with ease and gentleness. This estate Riesling is harvested across Dirler-Cadé’s holdings, including fruit from the Grand Crus of Saering, Kitterlé, Kessler, Spiegel, Belzbrunnen, and Oberer Spiegel — with 70% of the estate’s Riesling on grand cru sites, this is a village wine with exceptional raw material. The nose is scented and bright, with navel orange peel and a touch of apricot. The palate is immediately vibrant, racy, slender, and crystalline — vivid, light, and bone-dry, with all the freshness and precision that defines great Alsatian Riesling.

All plots at Dirler-Cadé have been farmed biodynamically since 1998, with the goal of expressing the exceptional personality of each terroir. The estate’s four Grand Crus — Kitterlé, Saering, Spiegel, and Kessler — are each associated with one of the four elements: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. The Saering (“sea ring”) recalls the calcareous sediments deposited in the Oligocene period, producing wines that are juicy, broad, and dense with great power.

92 Points — Vinous
“The palate is immediately vibrant, racy, slender and crystalline. This is so vivid, light and vibrant. The 2023 is a jolt of energy delivered with ease and gentleness despite all its wonderful freshness. Bravo. (Bone-dry)” (Vintage 2023). 

93 Points — Ian d’Agata (Vintage 2023). 

92 Points — RVF
“The simple Riesling is a good introduction to the house style, precise and sapid.” (Vintage 2023). 

Pairs well with: Alsatian choucroute, grilled fish, oysters, soft cheeses, and Asian cuisine.

Grape: Riesling
Region: Alsace, France
Vintage: 2023
Style: Bone-dry
Format: 750ml
Viticulture: Biodynamic since 1998
Scores: 93 pts Ian d’Agata | 92 pts Vinous | 92 pts RVF

Chateau du Hureau Saumur-Champigny Tuffe 2023 375ml · Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France

Winemaker Notes

Philippe Vatan’s Tuffe is made from a wide variety of parcels spread across his limestone-rich vineyards. Classic Cabernet Franc notes of black raspberry and savory herbs, finishing with well-integrated tannins and effortless elegance.

The Estate

The Château du Hureau is located in the small town of Dampierre-sur-Loire, about four miles east of Saumur and 15 miles west of Chinon. The Château itself is an impressive sight, with its 18th-century Mansard roof and octagonal tower topped by a boar-headed weathercock, from which the domaine takes its name—an hureau is an old, solitary wild boar. Behind the Château sits the winery, which was carved out of the limestone cliffs in the 13th century and overlooks the Loire river. For wine lovers, the cave is even more impressive than the Château, with numerous paths leading to carved out caverns housing stainless steel vinification equipment and lines of barrels. It reminds one of being in a James Bond movie! Seventeen hectares (42 acres) including 21 separate vineyard plots are spread around the towns of Dampierre-sur-Loire, Souzay, Champigny and Saumur and are planted with Cabernet Franc. What links all of the plots is “tuffeau” (tufa/limestone), a kind of soft chalk from the Cretaceous period (146 to 65 million years ago). In Latin “creta” means chalk. The underlying tuffeau is the defining factor in Saumur-Champigny’s distinctive quality, and it also provides the name for this beautiful red.

Food Pairings

A versatile food wine — excellent with roasted chicken, duck, salmon, mushroom dishes, charcuterie, and soft Loire cheeses.

Details

• Bottle Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
• Region: Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France
• Grape: Cabernet Franc
• Type: Red
• Farming: Organic

Santa Maria Valley's Standard-Bearer — Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir

Cambria Estate Winery is one of Santa Barbara County's most storied producers, and Julia's Vineyard is their crown jewel — home to some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Santa Maria Valley, planted in the 1970s. This cool-climate vineyard, buffeted by Pacific breezes, produces a Pinot Noir of remarkable definition and complexity: bright fruit, earthy spice, mineral precision, and the signature "Santa Maria spice" that sets this appellation apart. The 2023 vintage is a benchmark expression — balanced, detailed, and exceptional value for the quality in the glass.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Hibiscus and herbal aromas mark this detailed Pinot Noir, following through to a palate of definition, length and mineral bones that frame cranberries, pomegranate, red cherries and their pits. Rose hips rise through the finish, a zip of orange zest on top."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 pts: "Framboise, Bing cherries, sappy underbrush, and floral notes that develop nicely with air. Medium-bodied, balanced, with good depth of fruit and a complex, satisfying style that would best many a great Village-level red Burgundy."
• Wine Enthusiast — 90 pts: "Rustic aromas of tart cranberry, oregano and thyme. The palate pairs red fruit with sage-like spices and dusty soil tones."
• Vinous — 90 pts: "Bright, rich and forward with spice tones and dark red cherry fruit forming the core. There's real character and Santa Maria Valley identity here."

Winemaker Notes

Cambria Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard 2023 750ml

100% destemmed and aged seven months in 18% new French oak barrels. Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir is a quintessential expression of the Santa Maria Valley — old vines, cool climate, and a winemaking philosophy that lets the vineyard speak. The result is a wine of genuine depth and Santa Maria identity at an exceptional price point.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County
• Producer: Cambria Estate Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Vine Age: Planted 1970s
• Aging: 7 months, 18% new French oak
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Incredibly versatile — exceptional with roast chicken with herbs, grilled salmon, duck confit, mushroom pizza, Gruyère, and charcuterie boards.

Orin Swift EIGHT YEARS In the Desert Zin, Petite Sirah, Syrah Napa Valley 2024 750ml

Winemaker Description

Eight Years in the Desert is the culmination of decades of Orin Swift winemaking — a wine born from an eight-year Zinfandel non-compete agreement entered in 2008 that pushed the team to hone their craft across other varietals, setting the stage for Zinfandel's triumphant return to the lineup.

The 2024 vintage is sourced from vineyards across California, including the historic Monte Rosso vineyard on Sonoma County's Moon Mountain District AVA, as well as Stefani Ranch, Dark Horse, and numerous others. What first catches the eye is the opaque mauve core with a vivid fuchsia rim. The nose opens with aromatics of black plum and boysenberry galette, Tellicherry peppercorn, cedar, and musk. Taut yet supple on entry, the palate delivers wild blackberry, crispy pluot, a hint of fennel, and slate, finishing with soft framing tannins and a close of milk chocolate-covered raspberry.

Expert Review

Wine Advocate 93 Points — Based primarily on Zinfandel (60%, mainly from Sonoma's Dry Creek Valley), with 28% Petite Sirah, 7% Syrah, and 5% other reds. A terrific effort with a perfumed nose of ripe raspberries and hints of stone fruit. Full-bodied (15.4% ABV) and silky-textured, nicely balanced and mouthwatering, with soft tannins on the finish.

Wine Details

Producer: Orin Swift Cellars
Blend: 60% Zinfandel, 28% Petite Sirah, 7% Syrah, 5% other reds
Region: California (Monte Rosso, Dry Creek Valley, and others)
Vintage: 2024
Aging: 8 months in French oak, 32% new
ABV: 15.4%
Size: 750ml

Les Hauts de Lagarde Bordeaux Rouge Organic — Bordeaux 2022

Les Hauts de Lagarde is a certified organic estate in the heart of Bordeaux, producing wines that honor the region's classic character through sustainable viticulture. The 2022 vintage delivered exceptional ripeness and balance — and this Bordeaux Rouge is the estate's most compelling expression yet. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, it earned 90 points from James Suckling, who praised its "velvety texture and core of succulent fruit." At this price, it is one of the most exciting organic values in all of Bordeaux.

The nose opens with generous aromas of blackcurrant, blackberries, warm spices, chocolate, and walnuts. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied with a round, velvety texture, a succulent dark fruit core, and a soft, smooth finish. The structure is elegant — ripe tannins with just enough grip to reward short-term cellaring.

James Suckling 90 — "Chocolate, walnuts and ripe, dark-fruited character on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with a velvety texture and a core of succulent fruit. The finish is soft and smooth." (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Les Hauts de Lagarde, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Bordeaux Rouge AOC
• Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
• Certification: Certified Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, blackberry, spice, chocolate, walnuts, velvety finish
• Best Paired With: Pork roasts, red meat, poultry, pasta dishes, aged cheese

A 90-point certified organic Bordeaux at an honest price — Les Hauts de Lagarde is the benchmark for what everyday Bordeaux can be.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Decanter 94 Points | Gorgeous Cabernet aromas, clear and crystalline, some herbal notes with a cool blueberry and chalky element. Rose scents, dark cherries and cinnamon bark. Full and expressive, warming tones but great acidity that gives such lift. Lovely purity and drive, this has a great sense of confidence - nothing overdone, really pristine and finessed. If anything it’s not super heavy, but it’s the better for it. You get the Napa richness in the fruit concentration but it’s so well defined and still with a graceful power. Yum. 0.5% Petit Verdot completes the blend.

Winemaker Description

Since 1993, Overture has been an expression of place across time. In keeping with an internal desire to underscore the importance of the growing season, Opus One has taken the necessary steps for Overture to become a vintage-dated wine. In doing so, Opus One intends to emphasize the diversity of our estate with a renewed focus.

Over the years our winemaker, Michael Silacci, and his team have come to deeply understand the individual blocks within the vineyards. Farming practices may then be adjusted at the block level to enable the vines to fully capture the quality of the estate.  The majority of our vineyards are planted in alluvial soils in the extreme western part of the Oakville, AVA, at the foot of the Mayacamas mountains. 

The fruit is harvested and vinified with the same care, precision, and attention to detail as Opus One. Unique aromatics, flavors, and textures are recognized as ideal for Overture — more red fruit, herbal characteristics, soft tannins, and creamy texture. 

Hahn Estate S.L.H. Chardonnay — Santa Lucia Highlands 2021

Hahn Estate’s S.L.H. Chardonnay is one of California’s most compelling cool-climate expressions of the variety — and the 2021 vintage delivers with exceptional clarity and energy. Sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, one of Monterey County’s most celebrated appellations, the vineyards sit at elevations between 1,200 and 2,200 feet, where cool Pacific winds and dramatic diurnal temperature swings preserve natural acidity and build genuine complexity. The result is a Chardonnay of viscous texture, welcoming acidity, and layered fruit — earning 90 points from Wine Enthusiast and representing outstanding value at this price.

The nose is inviting and aromatic: lemon peel, lychee, wet rock, citrus, stone fruit, and hints of banana and vanilla. On the palate, it lands with clean, brisk energy — lime peel, rounded ripe melon, stone fruits, apple, and a touch of spice — with a viscous mouthfeel and a finish that is fresh, focused, and satisfying.

Wine Enthusiast 90 — “Lemon peel, lychee and wet-rock aromas converge on the nose. The palate lands with clean, brisk energy, offering flavors of lime peel with rounded, ripe melon.”

• Producer: Hahn Estate, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Elevation: 1,200–2,200 feet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, lychee, wet rock, stone fruit, banana, vanilla, lime, ripe melon, apple, spice
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster bisque, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses

Cool-climate precision at a warm-hearted price — Hahn’s S.L.H. Chardonnay is the Santa Lucia Highlands at its most approachable.

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

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | While this wine is currently quiet, it shows a lot of promise. Mouthwatering and long on the palate, it offers attractive citrus pith, delicate white flowers and fresh almonds.

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

Vinous 90 Points |  This is juicy in style and remarkably pure, with a subtle tinge of minerality and vividly ripe cherry-berry fruit notes that flow across a stream of fresh acidity. It tapers off crisp and only gently tannic yet poised with medium length. This is fantastic for the difficult 2023 vintage and not your typical Poliziano Rosso, with just 50% of production and 100% Sangiovese.

Château Minuty Prestige Rosé — Provence, France 2025 750ml

Château Minuty is one of Provence’s most celebrated and historic estates, situated on the Saint-Tropez peninsula in the heart of the Côtes de Provence appellation. A family-owned domaine for generations, Minuty has become synonymous with the finest expression of Provençal rosé — elegant, precise, and unmistakably of its place. The Prestige cuvée is the estate’s signature rosé, crafted from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Rolle, and vinified with meticulous attention to freshness and finesse. The 2025 vintage in Provence delivered wines of exceptional aromatic purity and saline tension.

Pale pink with luminous clarity, the 2025 Prestige opens with a very expressive nose of floral notes that give way to aromas of apricot and yellow peach. On the palate, finesse dominates — a subtle hint of citrus and a beautifully saline, mineral finish that is quintessentially Provençal.

“The nose is very expressive, revealing floral notes that give way to aromas of apricot and yellow peach. On the palate, finesse dominates, accompanied by a subtle hint of citrus and a saline finish.” — Château Minuty Winemaker

• Producer: Château Minuty, Saint-Tropez Peninsula, Provence, France
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Côtes de Provence AOC
• Blend: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Rolle
• Style: Pale, dry, mineral Provençal rosé
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Floral, apricot, yellow peach, citrus, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, shellfish, ceviche, sushi, grilled fish, Provençal vegetable dishes, Italian beach cuisine, Asian cuisine

From the Saint-Tropez peninsula to your table — Château Minuty Prestige 2025 is the definitive expression of Provençal rosé elegance.

Winemaker Description 

Black is a revolutionary new style of port. The bright aromatics, incredible freshness and perfect balance bring it outside the stodgy "vintage-character" category. Enjoy it any time: chilled, before dinner, after, for a seductive edge to cocktails, as an indulgence with chocolate. The custom-designed bottle is distinctive, modern yet timeless, reflecting the uniqueness of Noval Black. It is simply the most beautiful port bottle we've seenn

Expert Reviews

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | I always love this cuvée, which offers tons of character for a great price. Classic Noval notes of spicy red and blue fruits, orange blossom, cigar, tobacco, and candied mint emerge from the NV Black, and It's round, supple, and full-bodied on the palate, with nicely balanced sugar, a layered yet elegant mouthfeel, and a great finish. 

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | 'Black' is a new blend produced from classic varieties that do not make it into the Quinta do Noval vintage. There are ripe blackberries, tar, smoke and orange liqueur on the nose that takes time to open. The palate is medium-bodied, very sleek on the entry, fleshy black fruits, sloe, spice and just a hint of white pepper, leading to a very focused finish.

A 99-Point Masterpiece from the Heights of Mendoza

El Enemigo has redefined Argentine fine wine with their Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard Gualtallary, and the 2020 vintage is the pinnacle of that achievement. Sourced from high-altitude vineyards in Gualtallary — one of the Uco Valley’s most extreme and celebrated terroirs — this Cabernet Franc-led blend is ethereal, powerful, and built for the long haul. Fermented in concrete with indigenous yeasts and partial whole clusters, it is a wine of rare precision and inner energy.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

• The Wine Advocate — 99 pts: “Nothing but phenomenal. Very fresh and balanced... subtle and ethereal within the powerful and exuberant character from Gualtallary. Intense and powerful, but something makes it feel light on its feet with great inner power.”
• James Suckling — 96 pts: “Ink and licorice with blackberry and black olive aromas. Round, fine tannins that are crunchy and refined. Juicy undertone and a savory finish.”
• Vinous — 95 pts: “Intense bouquet of grapefruit, violet and wild herbs. Natural fruit flavors highlighted by blackberry hints and a chalky texture, culminating in a long, fruit-driven finish.”
• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: “Fresh rosemary, graphite and tobacco accents meld with an elegant raspberry and plum core. Drink now through 2040.”

Winemaker Notes

El Enemigo Cabernet Franc Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard Gualtallary 2020

Deep purple with red highlights. Intense and elegant aromas of sweet spices, black pepper, eucalyptus, and thyme from the Cabernet Franc, with ripe blackberries and black cherries from the Malbec. Complex on the palate with structured tannins, a touch of chocolate and vanilla from oak aging, and a very long, persistent finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Blend: Cabernet Franc, Malbec
• Appellation: Gualtallary, Mendoza, Argentina
• Producer: El Enemigo / Achaval Ferrer
• Vintage: 2020
• Fermentation: Concrete, indigenous yeasts, partial whole clusters
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for the finest cuts — excellent with grilled meats, aged cheeses, lamb, and hearty braised dishes.

Castello di Volpaia · Chianti Classico Organic · 2024 · 375ml Half Bottle

Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Organic 2024 brings a fresh red-fruit profile to the table in a convenient half bottle. From Tuscany's Chianti Classico region, this Sangiovese-based red offers vivid ruby color, cherry-accented aromatics and a well-structured palate.

The producer emphasizes freshness and fruit, with red-fruit aromas carrying through to a fruity finish. The 375ml format makes it a practical choice for a smaller dinner or for exploring Chianti Classico without opening a full-size bottle.

Winemaker Description

Castello di Volpaia: The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish.

Tasting Notes

Vivid ruby in the glass. Fresh red fruit and hints of cherry on the nose lead into a well-structured palate and a fruity finish.

Food Pairings & Serving

Suggested pairings include tomato-based pasta, grilled meats, mushroom dishes and aged pecorino. Serve slightly below room temperature alongside a relaxed Tuscan-inspired meal.

Wine Details

• Producer: Castello di Volpaia
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chianti Classico
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Sangiovese-based
• Farming: Organic
• Style: Red wine
• Bottle size: 375ml half bottle

Fresh cherry character and Tuscan structure, sized for a smaller table.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Roger Voss writes 93 Points | Ripe and beautifully textured, this is a balanced wine. It comes from an estate just inland from the Gironde estuary, giving richness, a licorice aroma and finely delineated black currant fruits. Drink the wine from 2028. 

James Suckling 91+ Points | Firm and compact with juicy dark fruit and a hint of spice. Medium body. Firm and chewy finish.

Winemaker Description 

Intense deep purple robe. Seductive and intense nose of cassis, raspberries, spices, vanilla and unctuous grilled and toasty aromas. Well-structured wine that is at the same time rich and lush in the mouth with smooth tannins and a very long finish.

Nikolaihof Gruner Veltliner Zwickl BIODYNAMIC 2023 750ml

Nikolaihof is the oldest winery in Austria, with nearly 2,000 years of history and one of the first estates in the world to adopt biodynamic farming. Owned by the Saahs family since 1894 and Demeter-certified, the estate's vineyards in the Wachau are farmed without herbicides, pesticides, or synthetic sprays — guided instead by biodynamic preparations and a deep respect for the land.

The Zwickl is Nikolaihof's signature unfiltered Grüner Veltliner — a Hefeabzug-style wine bottled with its lees. Pour carefully for a bright, clear glass, or shake the bottle for a cloudy, textural pour full of yeasty depth. Two wines in one bottle.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of grapefruit, green apple, chopped herbs, and a lightly smoky, flinty minerality. The palate is wonderfully snappy and saline, with vigorous apple fruit, full-on yeast texture, and a long, refreshing finish. Classic Wachau Grüner with biodynamic soul.

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling: 91 — "Lightly salty, savory white... delightful on the palate. Unfiltered and unfined."
• Vinous: 91 — "Wonderful snappiness and fill. What a wine!"

Domaine

• Producer: Nikolaihof, Mautern, Wachau, Austria
• Appellation: Wachau DAC
• Grape: 100% Grüner Veltliner
• Vintage: 2023
• Farming: Demeter Certified Biodynamic
• Aging: Stainless steel, long slow fermentation with natural yeasts
• Style: Unfiltered, unfined — screw cap

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Jasper Morris 92-94 Points | Mid lemon. A little more stuffing than the very agreeable Chenevottes, digging deep into fresh yellow fruit, some citrus rind, good acidity, and a particularly appealing intense crisp white fruit finish. Old vines count! 

Neal Martin writes:  The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Champs Gain 1er Cru has a touch more mineralité on the nose compared to the Les Chenevottes, touches of gypsum and oyster shell intermingling with light white linen scents. The palate is very well balanced and beautifully poised, with entrancing white peach and nectarine notes toward the irresistible finish. Yes, yes, yes!  Drinking 2025 to 2048.  - Vinous 93-95

William Kelley writes: Aromas of citrus zest, peach and pear, mingled with hints of white flowers, hazelnuts and fresh bread, preface the 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Champs Gain, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and nicely concentrated wine with a bright spine of acidity and a mouthwateringly chalky finish. This looks to be Colin's best Champs Gain since 2017.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 91-93

Winemaker Description 

Founded in 1970 by Marc Colin and his wife Michele, Domaine Marc Colin now spans 15 hectares encompassing 26 appellations in St. Aubin, Chassagne, Puligny, and Santenay. Most of the land was inherited from past generations of Colin and Ponavoy; certain parcels have been in the family for more than 100 years. While the family does own prime territory in Chassagne, home base in St. Aubin features parcels of the very best vineyards, En Remilly and Chatenière, to name a few. These vineyards accrue prestige due to their sloped location; while much of St. Aubin resides on flat ground (rendering less interesting wines) the Colin properties are all situated on finely pitched hillsides. The resulting wines shimmer with savory minerality and luster.

Today Joseph, Caroline, and Damien, the children of Marc and Michele, own and run the domaine. The fourth sibling Pierre-Yves (who made the wine at Marc Colin for 10 years) established his own project in 2005. Sustainable and organic agriculture, older vines, and clay-limestone soils are just some of the components contributing to the quality of the final product. Winemaking style would best be called traditional, though Joseph (who makes the whites) and Damien (who makes the reds) are certainly not shy of innovation. Whites strive for optimum freshness; there is no heavy, ungainly wood here. The red wines are characterized by silky texture, ever-present fruit and a certain roundness with just a kiss of oak. Production consists of 70% white and 30% red with total production maxing out at 120,000 bottles.

Valdespino · Macharnudo Alto, Jerez · 375ml Half Bottle

Valdespino Ynocente Fino is a dry, single-vineyard Sherry made from Palomino Fino grown in Macharnudo Alto. This 375ml half bottle offers a concentrated expression of Jerez, with pronounced salinity, chalky intensity and an austere, mineral structure.

Producer & Vineyard

Valdespino’s flagship Fino comes from Macharnudo Alto, a vineyard distinguished by its pure white albariza soils. Fermentation takes place in 600-liter wooden casks without added yeasts, a traditional approach that sets the wine apart.

Tasting Notes

Iodine and salt mingle with ripe white fruit, nuts and exotic spices. Dry and firmly structured, the wine’s stony character and saline intensity make it a compelling companion to seafood.

Expert Review · 

Wine & Spirits, 95 Points | Inocente is Valdespino’s flagship, a wine from the Macharnudo Alto vineyard, where the soil is pure white albariza. It ferments in 600-liter wooden casks without added yeasts, a practice that has become increasingly rare in Jerez. The intensity of the wine’s salinity is remarkable—iodine and salt—coming together with ripe white fruit, scents of nuts and exotic spices. The structure is dry and austere, like drinking the juice of stones. This will last for a decade in the cellar, but it’s impossible to hold onto a bottle if there’s raw seafood nearby.

Historical Expert Review · Autumn 2016 Magnum Bottling

The following review concerns a special magnum release, not the current 375ml bottling.

Robert Parker, 94+ Points | As with many other wines from the José Estévez group, there is a special bottling of Valdespino's flagship NV Fino Inocente in magnum, but in this case they have kept the bottles for six months as the wine is from the saca otoño 2016, the autumn bottling from 2016. So the wine is offered with some extra bottle age. It has all that you expect from Inocente, a long aging wine fermented in bota from grapes grown exclusively in the Macharnudo Alto vineyard and bottled with an average age of ten years. All the textbook aromas and flavors are there, coupled with the elegance and mineral intensity the Macharnudo white chalky soils provide. Customers who purchase one of this scarce magnums probably know Inocente already. This will have a longer development in bottle.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with oysters, raw seafood, grilled shrimp, olives or salted almonds.

Details

• Producer: Valdespino
• Wine: Ynocente Fino
• Country: Spain
• Region: Andalucía
• Appellation: Jerez-Xérès-Sherry
• Vineyard: Macharnudo Alto
• Grape: Palomino Fino
• Type: Fino Sherry
• Style: Dry
• Size: 375ml half bottle
• Soil: White albariza
• Fermentation: 600-liter wooden casks, without added yeasts

Hermann J Wiemer Magdalena Riesling 2022 · Finger Lakes, New York

Producer Description

The unique traits of Wiemer’s Magdalena Vineyard are featured in this lush Riesling. A beneficial air exchange with Seneca Lake moderates the temperatures, creating a warmer and more protective site in the colder months and a cooling effect throughout the summer. The airflow keeps the vineyard dry, and deep soil provides room for spreading root growth. The lime silt loam soil that the site is celebrated for is crucial to the development of flavor intensity in the grapes. Magdalena wines are striking and powerful, and develop very well over time– whether in the glass or in the cellar.

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast, 95 Points (Christina Pickard) — Still a spring chicken, this top Riesling—if drunk now—needs a few good swirls in the glass before releasing delicate orange citrus, jasmine and honeysuckle aromas from the clutch of more reductive ones. There’s richness and intensity on the dry, slippery palate, cut with citrusy acidity and a chalk dust minerality to the ultralong finish. This is a wine of complexity and class that should cellar until 2032 or longer.

d'Arenberg · The Derelict Vineyard Grenache · McLaren Vale · 2020

d'Arenberg The Derelict Vineyard Grenache 2020 is a rich, concentrated McLaren Vale red with savory fruit and a long finish. Raspberry, redcurrant, cherry and rhubarb meet deeper plum, cedar and dark-chocolate notes. Generous texture and smooth, balanced tannins make it an inviting choice for hearty meals and barbecues.

Origin & Character

From McLaren Vale in South Australia, this Grenache pairs depth of flavor with freshness and savory complexity. Its red-fruit character is complemented by earthy and herbal accents, offering intensity without sacrificing balance.

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins · 67wino.shop. A full bodied, darkly colored Grenache with intense richness and depth of flavor. Aromas of savory red fruits on the nose, with lovely intensity in the mouth, smooth tannins and a delicious long-lasting finish. Powerful, precise and concentrated with no over ripeness. A great wine for hearty dishes and perfect for barbecues.

Winemaker Description

Dark, intense deep purple-crimson in the glass. On the nose: striking notes of rhubarb, raspberry jam and redcurrant. The palate is soft and rich, showing a more full-body style of Grenache. A flow of red cherries, rhubarb and red plums are laced with a fine layer of cedar, introducing more dark-flavored characters like plums and hints of dark chocolate. Texture is firm and finely balanced.

Expert Review

James Suckling · 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified. An inviting nose of baked cherry, blueberry, moss and bark. Medium- to full-bodied with velvety tannins. Juicy and fresh red and black fruit with savory undertones. Herb and earthy notes ground the palate. A bit of tension here, which I like. Drink or hold.

Pairing & Serving

Try barbecued meats, grilled lamb, a hearty stew or roasted mushrooms. Serve slightly below room temperature and allow time in the glass for its fruit and savory notes to unfold.

Details

• Producer: d'Arenberg
• Wine: The Derelict Vineyard
• Vintage: 2020
• Country: Australia
• Region: South Australia
• Appellation: McLaren Vale
• Grape: Grenache
• Type: Red wine
• Bottle size: 750ml

Beckmen Vineyards Cuvée Le Bec · Santa Ynez Valley · 2022

Beckmen Vineyards makes its Rhône-style wines in California's Santa Ynez Valley, drawing fruit for Cuvée Le Bec from its estate vineyards in the Los Olivos District and Ballard Canyon. The family has tended these sites since 1994, including the biodynamically farmed Purisima Mountain Vineyard with its limestone subsoil.

The 2022 Cuvée Le Bec brings Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Counoise together in a savory, fruit-forward red. The critic notes below find dark berries, purple flowers, pepper and spice, with enough structure for the table now or some time in the cellar.

Expert reviews · 2022 vintage

Vinous, 93 Points — The 2022 Cuvée Le Bec is the 25th vintage of this bottling. It's a fantastic entry-level Rhône blend. Dark, sumptuous fruit, savory minerality, tobacco and a floral air join together in a layered, harmonious profile. Structured enough to age, yet irresistibly delicious today the 2022 is a standout in this range.

Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points, Editors' Choice — This lighter bodied Rhône blend is always a refreshing crowd pleaser, perfect for a wide range of fare. Aromas of purple flower, smoked meat and thyme show on the nose, while the palate's mix of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Counoise shows plum and pepper flavors.

Jeb Dunnuck, 91 Points — Based on 52% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 12% Mourvèdre, and 3% Counoise, the 2022 Cuvée Le Bec was 90% destemmed with 10% whole clusters and brought up in stainless steel tanks. Darker berries, peppery herbs, and some Southern Rhône-like spice all define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied, has terrific purity of fruit, and a charming, delicious style. California's answer to a great Côtes du Rhône.

At a glance

• Producer: Beckmen Vineyards
• Vintage: 2022
• Region: Santa Ynez Valley, California, United States
• Blend according to Jeb Dunnuck: 52% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 12% Mourvèdre, 3% Counoise
• Size: 750ml

A generous Rhône-inspired blend for roast meats, savory dishes and easy conversation.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points | This wine is now mature, showing richness while also preserving elegance. Earthy, herbal tones are laced through the wine’s juicy fruit texture. Enjoy now for best enjoyment.

Wine Spectator 90-93 Points | Still very primal, but enticing, with sappy raspberry, sweet spice, melted licorice and linzer torte notes that have yet to stretch out fully. There's racy acidity as well, so this should knit nicely.