1210 products
Schramsberg Vineyards Brut Rose North Coast Sparkling 2020 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019
Vinous 92 Points Eric Guido | More savory than sweet and wonderfully complex, the 2019 Brut Rosé North Coast bursts from the glass with toasty notes of fresh baguette and almonds, giving way to crushed apples and gingery spice. This rushes the palate with an elegant bead of silken bubbles. It is creamy yet energetic, and mineral-tinged orchard fruits add further tension. The 2019 leaves the senses wonderfully refreshed through the long, crunchy finale, as white strawberry and spice cookie notes fade. The Brut Rosé is a pleasure bomb, yet it’s wonderfully balanced throughout. Drinking 2023 to 2027.
Wine Spectator 92 Points | A delicate, graceful rosé, with refined strawberry, fresh ginger and yeast roll tones that glide on the supple finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now.
Cantine San Marzano Salento Edda Lei Bianco 2023 750ml
Chardonnay, Moscatel, Fiano | Salento, Puglia / Italy
Vintage: 2023 | Size: 750ml
90+ Rated
Cantine San Marzano is one of Puglia’s most celebrated cooperative estates, farming the sun-drenched heel of Italy’s boot with a commitment to quality that has earned them an international following. “Edda Lei” — named for a woman, as the best things often are — is their flagship white blend: a luxurious, opulent expression of Southern Italian viticulture that draws comparisons to fine white Burgundy, but with the exotic, sun-drenched aromatics that only Salento can deliver.
The 2023 vintage is a blend of Chardonnay, Moscatel, and Fiano, each variety contributing its own dimension. Tropical and yellow fruit lead the nose — pineapple, lychee, and melon — with delicate seashell and floral notes woven throughout. On the palate, it is fresh and gently saline, medium- to full-bodied, with a richness that feels Mediterranean in the best possible sense. A wine with genuine cult appeal and the structure to match.
“Lovely tropical and yellow fruit on the nose, such as pineapple, lychees and melon, as well as seashells and flowers. It’s fresh and gently saline with a medium to full body.”
— James Suckling, 91 Points. (Vintage 2023).
Pairs with: Sea bass in butter sauce, lobster, scallops, veal, or herb-roasted chicken.
Vinedos del Contino Contino Rioja Blanco 2020 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020
Luis Gutierrez writes: The white 2020 Blanco is a little closed, young, clean and tender with subtle oak. They produced a little bit more in 2020, and the wine has less oak and less buttery sensations, a change that started with the 2017 vintage, which seems to have found its style harvesting earlier to retain freshness; it has 13.04% alcohol and a pH @ 3.23 and matured in larger oak containers, 500-liter oak barrels and some concrete for 12 months. It's floral and expressive, a blend of Viura with 20% Garnacha Blanca that they still consider work in progress but moving in the direction they want to go. 16,200 bottles and 100 magnums were filled in March 2022. Drinking 2022 to 2028. - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 93
James Suckling writes: A delicious, creamy white with aromas of apricots, baked peaches, hazelnuts, white chocolate and nougat. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a ripe and creamy palate. Lovely buttery pastry and nougat character, with a fresh finish. Drink now - James Suckling 93
Pedro Ballesteros MW, Sarah Jane Evans MW, Pierre Monsour write: Round and warm on the nose, with fine notes of smoke. A mouth-filling wine that's fresh and expressive. Drinking 2024 to 2027. - Decanter 90
Winemaker Notes
Contino Blanco 2020 shows a very intense nose, marked by its aging in barrel. It is fresh and fruity wine, a true reflection of the identity of our vineyard. San Gregorio offers a Garnacha Blanca with great complexity and volume. The soils are clayey-calcareous, with medium stoniness, key for good drainage.
Blend: 80% Viura, 20% Garnacha Blanca
Domaine Huet Le Mont Sec Vouvray Biodynamic 2024 750ml
Winemaker Description
Le Mont wines are often the estate's most reticent, but develop the strongest perfume with age. Mineral-driven with a crystalline purity, this is the precision we've come to rely on with Le Mont.
Domaine Leflaive Puligny Montrachet Biodynamic 2022 750ml
Domaine Leflaive Puligny Montrachet Biodynamic 2022 · Burgundy, France
Expert Review - Vintage 2022
Charles Curtis MW, Decanter, 94 Points — This village-level wine is a reliable benchmark for the commune. It reflects the sunny character of the vintage with its ripe stone fruit and citrus notes, yet offers depth and complexity as well, with saline hints, flint and fresh white flowers. The texture is silky and approachable. It’s drinking now, but with enough substance to hold for five to 10 years.
Vinous, 92 Points — The 2022 Puligny-Montrachet Village has a nicely detailed bouquet of green apples. It’s a touch spicier than the Bourgogne Blanc with a trace of walnut coming through with aeration. The palate is nicely balanced with a keen line of acidity sour lemon hints and again that spice that lingers on the aftertaste.
Allen Meadows, Burghound, 90-92 Points — A markedly more floral-suffused nose features notes of cool Granny Smith apple citrus and a touch of mineral reduction. The caressing delicious and plump but agreeably energetic medium-bodied flavors possess solid depth and persistence on the balanced firm and highly refreshing finale. This is also excellent for its level and a wine that should drink well after only 3 to 4 years of keeping but age gracefully for a decade. Recommended.
Details
- Bottle Size: 750ml
- Region: Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
- Grape: Chardonnay
- Type: White
- Farming: Biodynamic
Rochioli CHARDONNAY Russian River 2023 750ml
Expert Review - Vintage 2022
The Wine Advocate 94 Points | The 2022 Chardonnay Estate has open, inviting aromas of candied peaches, manuka honey, white pepper and tropical flowers. The satiny, medium-bodied palate pairs concentrated flavors and textural breadth with tangy acidity, and it has a long, flavorful finish.
Winemaker Description
Chateau La Lagune Haut-Medoc 2022 750ml
Winemaker Description
Plenty of chocolate, tobacco and blackcurrant character on the nose. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins that are polished and present. Long and intense. This is rather tight and mouth-puckering. Give it time to soften. Very structured. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2025.
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019
Vinous 95 Points | The 2019 La Lagune offers exquisite transparency on the nose - one of the most terroir-expressive Pessac-Léognan wines this vintage. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins, taut and fresh, quite saline with a very integrated and poised finish that lingers in the mouth. Wonderful - could this be the best La Lagune in years? Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.
James Suckling 95 Points | Plenty of chocolate, tobacco and blackcurrant character on the nose. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins that are polished and present. Long and intense. This is rather tight and mouth-puckering. Give it time to soften. Very structured. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2025.
Speri Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Monte Sant'Urbano Organic 2020 750ml
Vinous Top 100 of 2024 — Speri’s Single-Vineyard Amarone at Its Finest
Speri is one of the Valpolicella Classico’s most respected family estates, farming the legendary Vigneto Monte Sant’Urbano organically for generations. Their 2020 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is undisputedly the symbol of the house — a superb, classic Amarone of extraordinary complexity, vigorous structure, and rare elegance. Named #79 on Vinous Media’s Top 100 of 2024, this is one of Italy’s benchmark wines.
Expert Review - Vintage 2020
- James Suckling — 94 pts: “Intense, dark-fruited nose of plum skins, raisins, chocolate and wet stone character. Full and structured with a rich, succulent mid-palate and firm tannins. Structured and long, with juiciness and sappiness at the end. From organically grown grapes.”
Winemaker Notes
Speri Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Monte Sant’Urbano Organic 2020 750ml
Deep garnet red with an ethereal bouquet of dried fruit. Full-bodied, warm, mouth-filling and dry on the palate — a substantial wine of rare elegance built for long aging. Undisputedly symbolic of the Speri estate: great complexity, vigorous structure, and consistent top-tier elegance.
Vineyard & Provenance
- Blend: Corvina Veronese, Corvinone, Rondinella, Molinara
- Appellation: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG, Veneto, Italy
- Vineyard: Vigneto Monte Sant’Urbano
- Producer: Speri
- Vintage: 2020
- Certified: Organic
- Size: 750ml
Food Pairings
A wine for the grandest occasions — excellent with braised meats, game, richly flavored red meat dishes, and mature cheeses. Equally magnificent on its own at the end of a fine dinner.
Chateau Paloumey Haut-Medoc Cru Bourgeois Superieur 2021 750ml
Winemaker Description
Appealing and elegant ruby robe. Delicate red fruit aromas. A subtle overtone of wood reveals its spicy bouquet. Remarkable balance with round and ripe tannins. Elegant and silky on the palate, it finishes with a delectable touch offemininity. This is a great wine to sip on the patio on a hot summer’s day or as a cocktail. The wine goes well with shell fish, white fish, sushi and curry, as well as white-meat dishes.
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021
91 Points Wine Enthusiast | Still young and juicy, the wine is full of bright black-currant fruits. It also has a firm structure that will allow it age. Drink this succulent wine from 2025.
Points James Suckling | Plums, berry fruit and crushed stones on the nose. It’s juicy and mineral with a medium body, lightly chalky tannins and a soft finish. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and petit verdot. From organically grown grapes.
Points Decanter | Concentrated and scented on the nose. Smooth and oh so succulent, this is juicy and bright with tons of energy and a subtle vibrancy to the blackcurrant, black cherry and plum fruit that is edged with liquorice, graphite and crushed stone elements. Nicely compacted right now, there is a core of cool and creamy blue fruit and a drive of freshness and life that goes all the way through. Touches of minerality come back on the finish that is long and sustained. Excellent potential here with intensity, acidity and structure. Darkly charming and will improve more over ageing.
Chateau Gruaud Larose Saint-Julien 2022 750ml
Expert Reviews – Vintage 2022
Decanter 97 Points: Compelling from the first sip, this has excellent balance delivering freshness and lift as well as depth and breadth. Lovely licks of bitterness and salty stones join ripe blackcurrants and juicy plums. The power is undeniable but it’s tempered by a silky frame, making this rich but utterly charming. A great Gruaud at 13.5% ABV.
Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points: An inky-hued 2022 with a killer nose of crème de cassis, lead pencil shavings, liquid violets, and crushed stone minerality. Powerful and full-bodied with plenty of mid-palate depth, fine polished tannins, and a great finish. As good as the 2018 and one of the absolute classics from this château. Best hidden in the cellar for a decade if possible.
The Wine Advocate 96 Points: Bottled May 2024. Dark berries, violets, vine smoke, pen ink and tar on the nose. Medium to full-bodied, dense and layered with terrific depth, sweet structuring tannins, and a long expansive finish. The estate’s first organic-certified vintage. 13.6% alcohol.
James Suckling 96 Points: Discreet nose of dark fruit and minerals with excellent depth. Uncoiled power and intensity, full body, firm but polished tannins that dissolve into a long, close-knit finish lasting almost a minute. Try from 2028.
Winemaker Description
The Château Gruaud Larose Saint-Julien 2022 is a landmark vintage for this historic Saint-Julien Second Growth — marking the estate’s first official vintage with organic certification. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot (14%), and Cabernet Franc (3%), aged in 95% new French oak barrels. The 2022 has been hailed as a return to the Saint-Julien elite, with critics comparing its quality to legendary vintages like 1982 and 1961.
Pairing Suggestions
- Classic: Rack of lamb with rosemary and garlic or a prime rib roast.
- Savory: Braised short ribs, duck confit, or a truffle-infused beef tenderloin.
- Cheese: Aged Comté, Manchego, or a firm Pecorino.
Marques De Riscal Rioja XR Reserva 2021 750ml
Marqués de Riscal · Rioja XR Reserva · 2021 · 750ml
Marqués de Riscal XR Reserva 2021 blends Tempranillo and Graciano in a layered Rioja red. The supplied Jeb Dunnuck review describes 25 months of American oak aging, with dark cherry, vanilla and cocoa across a concentrated palate.
The supplied critics' notes highlight blackberry and black plum alongside cedar, leather and spice, with persistent tannins and a long finish. Enjoy it with a hearty meal now, or allow further development in the cellar.
Winemaker Description
Marqués de Riscal: Throughout its history, Marqués de Riscal has always been an innovating, pioneering cellar and reference in a constantly changing winemaking sector. We seek to make wines which are original, fresh, elegant and easy to drink. Since the beginning, we have always had a clear vocation for export. Today we can be found in more 110 countries to which we export more than 60% of our production.
Expert Reviews - 2021
James Suckling, 94 Points: 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. Drink or hold.
Wine Enthusiast, 93 Points: 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.
Jeb Dunnuck, 93 Points: 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.
Pairing Suggestions
Try with roast lamb, grilled beef, mushroom dishes or aged Spanish cheeses.
Wine Details
- Producer: Marqués de Riscal
- Wine: XR Reserva
- Vintage: 2021
- Region: Rioja, Spain
- Grapes: Tempranillo and Graciano
- Aging: 25 months in American oak, according to the supplied Jeb Dunnuck review
- Size: 750ml
A layered Rioja Reserva for the dinner table or further time in the cellar.
Billecart Salmon Champagne Le ROSE Brut NV 1.5L MAGNUM
Points Jeb Dunnuck | The NV Champagne Brut Rose is an attractive pale salmon hue, with a fresh perfume of wild strawberry, ripe peach, white and red flowers, a hint of tropical fruit, and grapefruit. The palate is rounded, with fruit up front and through the mid-palate, and it has a silky and fresh lift. There is a wonderful ease and drinkability to this wine, which delivers balance and finesse. Best after 2022.
Points James Suckling | Attractive salmon color with aromas of dried strawberries and lemons, as well as hints of flowers. Full-bodied with tight tension from the fine phenolics that run through the palate. Hints of white pepper, peaches and sliced green strawberries with some candied lemons, too. Always an excellent bottle. 40% chardonnay, 30% pinot noir and 30% pinot meunier. Drink now.
Points Decanter | Currently based on the 2016 harvest, this is floral and citrussy, showing a lithe, graceful balance. It’s a blend of 40% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 30% Meunier, with about 40% of reserve wine, and red wine accounts for 7% of the blend. Its delicate, subtly expansive flavours of raspberry and strawberry are enlivened by a tangerine-like acidity, and while it feels ripe and full in flavour on the palate, it never loses its sense of refinement and poise, finishing with detailed length and depth.
Points Wine Enthusiast | A fine composition of red fruits and taut citrus, this Champagne is poised and fragrant with acidity and light tannins.
Points Wine Spectator | Delicate notes of yellow plum, marzipan, verbena and fleur de sel are set in this firm and finely meshed rosé Champagne. Creamy finish. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Drink now.
Persistent mousse, with fine bubbles rising slowly. Pale salmon pink in color, with a shade of gold. A nose of red fruits and fresh pear. Delicate fruit on the palate, elegant, and showing great finesse. Winemaker Description.
Val di Suga Brunello di Montalcino 2018 750ml
Winemaker Description
This is a very concentrated Brunello that combines intense notes of blood orange with a hint of chinotto mixed with complex Mediterranean spices (Helichrysum Thyme and Broom Flowers). It is a wine with a strong nerve, a vibrant acid structure that sustains a concentrated mouthfeel, rich in silky tannins. The finish is extremely long and soft.
Expert Reviews
James Suckling | Dusty notes with crushed gravel and dried tea leaves are a prelude to aromas of fresh button mushrooms and hints of fennel. Savory mushrooms and olives, followed by firm, fine-grained tannins. Structured and full-bodied.
Jeb Dunnuck | The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino has aromatics of menthol and medicinal herbs, brushed leather, and black cherry. The palate is dark fruited without weight, marked with dried blackberry, black tea, dried herbs, and classically balanced structure. It is sourced from three different vineyard sites of various exposition on the hill of Montalcino. This will be ready to drink a touch earlier and be great to check in on over the next 15 years. Drink 2022-2036.
Wine Spectator | Aromas of iron, blood and cherry lead off in this smooth and vibrant red, with a well of dark fruit—black cherry and blackberry—settling in on the palate. Offers a dusting of dark chocolaty tannins on the finish. Best from 2023 through 2043. 1,500 cases imported.
Decanter | Bringing together grapes from diverse vineyards throughout Montalcino, this midweight, almost-approachable Brunello is focused and vibrant. It takes a bit of coaxing on the nose then divulges sage, orange rind and fennel. Brisk acidity and chalky tannins meet crisp red currant and cranberry, cleansing the palate nicely. A delightful jumping off point to Val di Suga’s single-vineyard offerings, which COO and winemaker Andrea Lonardi has been refining since 2012.
Pommery Champagne Brut Royal 375ML Half Bottle
Pommery Champagne Brut Royal NV — Half Bottle (375ml)
Pommery is one of Champagne’s most storied and innovative houses, founded in 1836 and famously credited with introducing the first successful dry “Brut” style Champagne to the world in 1874 — a style they have been perfecting ever since. Based in Reims, Pommery is known for its elegant, refined approach and its iconic Art Nouveau cellars, carved deep into the chalk beneath the city. Brut Royal is the house’s signature non-vintage expression: an equal blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, crafted to showcase the balance, finesse, and minerality that define the Pommery style. Now available in a 375ml half-bottle.
The Wall Street Journal’s Lettie Teague describes it as “a lithesome, compulsively drinkable dry sparkler with notes of citrus and pear and a long minerally finish” — and calls it “a terrific aperitif.” The nose is civilized and elegant, with apple, lemon, peach, grapefruit, biscuit, and dried fruit. The palate is creamy and round, with citric balance, real poise, and a refreshing bite of citrus on the finish. Sleek bubbles throughout.
Decanter — 93 points
“Civilised apple, lemon and dried fruit nose. There’s a nice lift in the mouth with citric balance and real poise. Full of character.”
James Suckling — 92 points
“Peach, lemon, grapefruit, biscuit and some honey on the nose. Creamy and round with a juicy, peachy palate. Sleek bubbles. Base vintage 2018.”
Wine Enthusiast — 90 points
“A reference in the region. Fine balance, rich but with good touches of minerality and crisp white fruits. The finish with its bite of citrus is attractively refreshing.”
Wall Street Journal — Lettie Teague
“A lithesome, compulsively drinkable dry sparkler with notes of citrus and pear and a long minerally finish… a terrific aperitif.”
Food Pairings
Oysters, smoked salmon, sushi, soft cheeses, and light appetizers. Perfect as an aperitif or to open any celebration.
Blend: Equal parts Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
Appellation: Champagne AOC, France
Style: Brut NV (base vintage 2018, 9–10 g/L dosage)
Format: 375ml (Half Bottle)
Scores: 93 pts Decanter | 92 pts James Suckling | 90 pts Wine Enthusiast
Podere Grattamacco Bolgheri Superiore 2021 750ml
Podere Grattamacco's Bolgheri Superiore is one of the coast's most compelling expressions — a Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend with Merlot and Sangiovese, grown on the mineral-rich soils of the Bolgheri DOC. Deeply aromatic and structured, it opens with ripe red fruits, balsamic and Mediterranean herb notes, and a distinctive mineral thread that carries through to a long, persistent finish. Built for the cellar, yet captivating now.
Pairs beautifully with game, wild boar, roasted and braised red meats, and medium-aged cheeses.
Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021
James Suckling 97 Points | At a different level, with blackcurrants, blueberries and Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary and sage. Also tobacco and coffee bean. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a persistent finish. Sophisticated and thought-provoking. A new quality with this wine.
Wine Spectator 96 Points | Blueberry, black currant and pomegranate flavors accented by oak spice, graphite and rosemary notes. Fresh and long, with terrific balance and a fine-grained band of tannins lining the finish.
Bertani Amarone Della Valpolicella 2011 750ml
The Benchmark of Amarone — Bertani's 2011 Della Valpolicella
Bertani and Amarone are nearly synonymous — the estate's 150+ year history in the Veneto is so intertwined with this iconic appellation that one cannot speak of great Amarone without invoking the Bertani name. Their Amarone is a wine of uncompromising elegance rather than brute power, built for the long haul and rewarding patience with extraordinary complexity. The 2011 vintage, now over a decade in bottle, is drinking magnificently — a rare opportunity to experience a fully mature, world-class Amarone at its peak.
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2011
- James Suckling — 97 pts: "Density and dryness that really comes together here, after almost 10 years in bottle. Very deep and vertical on the palate. Very pure and beautiful crushed cherries, dried flowers, carbon and pumice. Wonderful all round. Drink or hold."
- Decanter (Aldo Fiordelli) — 94 pts: "One of the most classic Amarones, which has never changed its elegant rather than powerful style. Bright garnet in the glass, dominated by leather, earthy tones and restrained raspberry fruit. Fresh character with hints of citrus, slightly oxidative flavours and a Modica salted-chocolate finish. Full and firm, with outstanding balance between suppleness and structure. Drinking 2021–2047."
- Wine Spectator (Alison Napjus) — 91 pts: "A poised red, expanding slowly on the palate, with fine, creamy tannins enmeshed with black cherry coulis, black plum reduction, iron, dark chocolate and tobacco notes. Fresh and focused, with a lasting, spiced finish. Drink now through 2031."
Winemaker Notes
Bertani Amarone Della Valpolicella 2011 750ml
Bertani's impact on Veneto winemaking is so considerable that their name and Amarone are nearly inseparable. Their 150+ year history is dotted with groundbreaking initiatives and royal accreditation. While respectful of tradition, Bertani strives toward innovation — using progressive techniques allied with extensive experience and a deeply felt respect for the land to produce wines of uncompromising quality.
Vineyard & Provenance
- Grapes: Corvina, Rondinella
- Appellation: Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Veneto
- Producer: Bertani
- Vintage: 2011
- Drinking Window: Now–2047
- Size: 750ml
Food Pairings
A wine for the grandest occasions — exceptional with braised beef short ribs, osso buco, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, wild boar ragù, truffle dishes, and dark chocolate desserts.
Chateau Pedesclaux Pauillac Grand Cru Classe 2016 750ml
Château Pédesclaux · Pauillac Grand Cru Classé · 2016
Château Pédesclaux 2016 brings together concentrated currant and blackberry fruit, floral notes and a mineral edge, framed by fine, polished tannins. The reviews emphasize the balance of freshness, depth and finesse in this Pauillac, with 94-point assessments from both Decanter and Jeb Dunnuck.
A 5ème Grand Cru Classé in Pauillac, Château Pédesclaux has undergone a renaissance through investment in its vineyards and cellar. The 2016 blend is 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc. Wine Advocate reports 18 months of aging in French oak, 60% new and 40% one-year-old barrels.
Expert Reviews · Vintage 2016
Decanter · 94 Points This really shows the heart of 2016 in the northern Médoc - it has the triumvirate of good acidity, good tannins and good fruit. It's a little austere and is going to take its time to truly get going. A second bottle proved much better for depth, as we queried rusticity on the nose of the first bottle. The second instead showed a hawthorn, hedgerow character and gorgeously rich black fruits, concentrated and focussed, and given complexity by tobacco and spice. It's the first time that four grape varieties have been used in the grand vin - Cabernet, Merlot, Petit Verdot, plus 3% Cabernet Franc. Eric Boissenot consults.
Jeb Dunnuck · 94 Points An estate that’s unquestionably on the upswing, the 2016 Château Pédesclaux is made from 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in 60% new oak. In the past, the wines from this estate have been slightly chunky, but that started to change around 2014, and I think this 2016 is the best yet. Beautiful blue fruits, violets, spicy oak, and a touch of minerality all emerge from this medium-bodied Pauillac, which has fine, polished tannins, a seamless texture, and a great finish. With purity and finesse as well as richness and depth, it’s already reasonably approachable today, but it’s going to evolve for three decades or more.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate · 93 Points The 2016 Pedesclaux is composed of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc. It aged for 18 months in 60% new and 40% one-year-old French oak. It has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed red and black currants and blackberries with cigar box, new leather, pencil lead and crushed rocks. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant, fresh and lively with loads of mineral nuances and a lovely earthy finish. Around 15,000 cases produce
James Suckling · 95 Points · Vintage Not Specified So aromatic with crushed currants, raspberries and blackberries with hints of graphite and lead pencil. Full-bodied and very tight with beautiful tannins and a long, flavorful finish. The tannins really build at the end of the palate. Try from 2024.
Wine Spectator · 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified An extroverted style, with bold plum and blackberry compote aromas and flavors, infused with anise accents and backed by an alluring finish of toasted vanilla, violet and mocha. On the showy side, but has enough latent drive to keep it honest. Drink now through 2030.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Pair with roast lamb, grilled beef, braised short ribs or mushroom dishes. The wine's fresh structure and savory complexity suit rich, deeply flavored food.
Details
- Producer: Château Pédesclaux
- Vintage: 2016
- Bottle Size: 750ml
- Country: France
- Region: Bordeaux
- Appellation: Pauillac AOC
- Classification: 5ème Grand Cru Classé
- Blend: 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc
- Type: Red Bordeaux blend
- Aging: 18 months in French oak, 60% new and 40% one-year-old barrels
Gonzalez Byass Leonor Palo Cortado Seco 12 Years Jerez-Xeres-Sherry 375ml Half Bottle
Winemaker Description
Leonor is a 12 year old Palo Cortado Sherry and described as the wild child of Jerez. It shows a light mahogany color with golden tones and a slight orange rim. On the nose intense and complex with notes of hazlenut perfectly balanced with aromas of bitter orange and mature oak. On the palate powerful and intense with toasted notes yet smooth and silky. Due to its power and structure this wine is perfect with mature cheeses and stong meats such as venison. Serve chilled.
Expert Reviews
James Suckling | A very elegant example of this rare type of Sherry, which combines the best of Fino freshness with Oloroso richness. Long finish with delicate dried-fruit and toasted-nut character. Drink now. Aged for 12 years in cask. Drink now.
Wine Spectator | Bright, with fennel seed, Brazil nut, green tea, ginger and hazelnut husk notes that are racy and dry from start to finish. Dried green fig accents add a subtle seduction on the finish.
Decanter | Aromas of caramel and curry spices. Milk chocolate on the palate with a soft texture and delicate body. A very harmonious wine with a long and spicy finish.
Wine & Spirits | Elegant and refined, with soft touches of candied cherries, walnuts and almonds, this is a textbook Palo Cortado. Aged 12 years in botas, it falls halfway between Amontillado and Oloroso in flavor, but much closer to the former. It needs only smoked trout.
Wine Enthusiast | This dry Sherry is a touch hot, with alcohol swirling around the glass, but there’s also complex, welcoming aromas of almond, apricot and toffee. The palate is appropriately rich, with flavors of caramel, toasted nuts and buttered toast. A finish with walnut, truffle and mushroom flavors urges contemplation.
Husch Vineyards Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2022 750ml
Husch Vineyards · Pinot Noir · Anderson Valley · Mendocino County, California · 2022 · 750ml
Husch Vineyards holds a special place in California wine history: founded in 1971, it was the first winery established in the Anderson Valley, a remote, fog-laced appellation in Mendocino County that has since become one of the state’s most celebrated addresses for Pinot Noir. The valley’s cool, maritime climate — shaped by Pacific fog that rolls in through the Navarro River corridor — produces Pinot Noir that sits at a compelling stylistic crossroads: darker and earthier than Russian River or Sonoma Coast, yet more structured and spice-driven than Willamette Valley Oregon. Husch has been farming this land for over fifty years, and the estate Pinot Noir remains the benchmark expression of what makes Anderson Valley special.
Lively ruby in the glass with an inviting, complex nose of raspberry compote, strawberry jam, dried florals, dried herbs, and a savory note of portobello mushroom. On the palate: baked red plum, pomegranate, and orange zest, interwoven with vanilla bean, earth, and mineral, carried by smooth tannins and lifted acidity that brings focus and length to a dry, supple finish. Wine Enthusiast awarded 92 points, calling it “a legacy family in the Anderson Valley still going strong.” Drink now through 2029. Pair with coq au vin, mushroom ravioli, roasted duck, grilled salmon, or creamy cheeses.
- Producer: Husch Vineyards (est. 1971, Anderson Valley — first winery in the appellation)
- Wine: Estate Pinot Noir · Anderson Valley
- Vintage: 2022
- Origin: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California
- Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
- Style: Earthy, spice-driven, food-friendly Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
- Score: Wine Enthusiast 92 Points
- Drinking Window: Now–2029
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Raspberry compote, strawberry, dried florals, portobello mushroom, red plum, pomegranate, orange zest, vanilla, earth, mineral, supple finish
- Pair With: Coq au vin · Mushroom ravioli · Roasted duck · Grilled salmon · Creamy cheeses
Anderson Valley’s founding winery, 92pts Wine Enthusiast — California Pinot Noir at its most authentic.
Expert Reviews
Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
“This lively wine offers aromas of raspberry compote, strawberry jam, florals, dried herbs and portobello mushroom on the nose. The flavors on the palate are baked red plum, pomegranate and orange zest, interwoven with vanilla bean, earth, mineral and a dry, supple finish. From a legacy family in the Anderson Valley still going strong.”
Bart Hopkins — 67wino.shop
“The beautiful Anderson Valley of Mendocino County is home to some of California’s best Pinot Noir. I look at it as a stylistic bridge between Russian River–Sonoma Coast and the Willamette Valley of Oregon. The fruit leans more to the darker spectrum with earthy complexity and a spicy character. Aromas of cherry and strawberry mingle with shades of violet, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Well balanced and harmonious with smooth tannins and lifted acidity that brings focus to the fruit on the long flavorful finish.”
Beaulieu Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon GEORGES DE LATOUR 2021 750ml
Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021
Jeb Dunnuck 98+ Points | "Incredibly elegant yet concentrated 2021 that does everything right." Purple-hued, with ample cassis, wild sage, graphite, and darker chocolate aromatics. Picks up a Graves-like gravelly earth character with air. Full-bodied with ripe, polished tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Needs 4–5 years of bottle age but will drink well for 30 years.
James Suckling 98 Points | Intense aromas of iodine, blackcurrants, cedar, sandalwood and mint. Medium to full body with silky tannins that spread across the palate and expand in a balanced, harmonized way. Hints of chocolate and tar. Better in a few years — try 2027 and beyond.
Wine Spectator 95 Points | Packed with dark, winey flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry paste underscored with alder, sweet tobacco, warm paving stone and black licorice. Violet accent fills the background. Polished finish makes it accessible now, with plenty of life ahead. Drink now through 2042. — Wine Spectator’s #2 Wine of the Year 2024.
Winemaker Notes
A truly remarkable vintage of BV’s iconic flagship. The bouquet is intense with wild sage, blackcurrant, cedar, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied with layers of ripe blackberry, redcurrant, and red rose petal alongside graphite, licorice root, gravelly stone, and dark chocolate. French oak aging adds sandalwood, clove, and Ceylon cinnamon. The signature "Rutherford Dust" tannins are silky, polished, and fine-grained, finishing long with a cocoa powder texture.
Slightly reserved upon release but incredibly drinkable — significant presence, depth, and concentration foreshadowing cellar-worthy potential across the next few decades.
Tasting & Pairings
Cassis, wild sage, graphite, dark chocolate, blackberry, cedar, sandalwood, and Rutherford Dust. Full-bodied with polished, fine-grained tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2042+.
- Prime rib or dry-aged ribeye — the wine’s concentration and tannin structure demand equally serious beef.
- Braised lamb shank with herbs — the sage and cedar notes mirror herbed, slow-cooked meats.
- Dark chocolate truffles — the cocoa powder finish and chocolate aromatics are a decadent match.
Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Tuscany Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 750ml (Introductory Offer)
Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana 2022
93 Points James Suckling | 91 Points Wine Enthusiast | 90 Points Wine Spectator
Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 is a rich, expressive and beautifully structured Tuscan red wine from the celebrated Maremma region of southern Tuscany. Produced by Tommasi Family Estates, this distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon combines the bold fruit character of the variety with the elegance, freshness and savory complexity of Tuscany's Mediterranean terroir.
The Poggio al Tufo estate represents an important chapter in the Tommasi family's winemaking history. Acquired in 1997, it was the family's first major expansion beyond their historic home in Valpolicella. Located in the picturesque Maremma countryside, the estate is known for its distinctive volcanic tuff soils, warm Mediterranean climate and excellent conditions for cultivating international grape varieties.
Crafted exclusively from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is produced from carefully selected grapes grown at the Albore estate near Scansano. The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness, followed by traditional red wine fermentation with approximately 12 days of skin maceration. The wine is then matured for 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, developing complexity and structure while preserving its generous fruit character.
Deep ruby red in color, the 2022 vintage opens with an inviting bouquet of ripe blackberries, blackcurrants, dark cherries and plum preserves, complemented by black pepper, licorice, vanilla, cedar and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. Subtle notes of tobacco, violets and earthy minerals add depth and sophistication.
On the palate, this Cabernet Sauvignon is medium to full-bodied, rich and beautifully balanced. Layers of ripe black fruit, dark cherry and savory spice unfold across a supple texture, supported by firm yet polished tannins and refreshing acidity. Hints of roasted pepper, cedar, licorice and balsamic herbs contribute complexity, leading to a persistent, structured finish.
The warm 2022 growing season produced concentrated, flavorful fruit, while late-season cooling helped preserve the wine's freshness and balance. The result is a Cabernet Sauvignon that delivers impressive depth and character while remaining approachable and versatile.
An excellent companion to hearty Italian cuisine, Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with grilled steaks, roasted lamb, braised beef, pappardelle with wild mushrooms, pasta with meat ragù, grilled sausages and moderately aged cheeses. Its combination of ripe fruit, savory complexity and polished structure makes it equally enjoyable for casual gatherings and special occasions.
WINE EXPERT RATINGS
James Suckling - 93 Points
A savory and structured Cabernet Sauvignon displaying aromas of tobacco, dried herbs and cedar layered over ripe blackcurrants and dark cherries. Medium to full-bodied, with compact, chalky tannins and a firm, lingering finish.
Wine Enthusiast - 91 Points
Rich aromas of Bing cherry, green bell pepper and wild herbs introduce a generous palate of ripe cherries, roasted peppers and savory spice. Velvety tannins, fresh acidity and impressive finesse create an appealing balance of power and elegance.
Wine Spectator - 90 Points
An expressive Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon featuring blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, mineral, tobacco and bell pepper notes. Supple fruit flavors are supported by dense, structured tannins and a persistent finish.
Winemaker Notes
Deep ruby red in color, it has a broad, complex nose with aromas of blackberry preserve, black pepper, licorice, vanilla and balsamic herbs. On the palate it is mouth-filling, rich and full-bodied, with velvety tannins that are nicely integrated with a pleasing sensation of freshness.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Producer: Tommasi Family Estates
Estate: Poggio al Tufo
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2022
Country: Italy
Region: Tuscany (Toscana)
Subregion: Maremma Toscana
Appellation: Toscana IGT
Grape: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine Type: Dry Red Wine
Body: Medium to Full
Vineyard: Albore Estate, Scansano, Maremma
Soil: Volcanic tuff and mixed mineral-rich soils
Climate: Mediterranean
Harvest: Grapes picked at advanced ripeness
Vinification: Traditional red wine fermentation with approximately 12 days of skin maceration
Aging: 12 months in large 70-hectoliter Slavonian oak casks
Alcohol: 13% ABV
Bottle Size: 750ml
Serving Temperature: 60-64°F (16-18°C)
Food Pairings: Grilled meats, roasted lamb, hearty pasta, mushroom dishes and aged cheeses
Cellaring Potential: Suitable for medium-term aging under proper storage conditions
Marqués de Cáceres Gaudium 2021 750ml
A powerful, age-worthy Rioja with layered dark fruit, chocolate, spice and finely structured tannins
Expert Ratings
97 Points Decanter World Wine Awards 2026, Platinum
“Packed with ambition and guile, bestowing the palate with voluptuous black cherry compote, smoky chocolate oak and peppered mushrooms. Fulsome and structured with powerful tannins and fabulous igniting acidity rippling through. Made for the long run.”
95 Points Tim Atkin MW
“Always the most ambitious red in Marqués de Cáceres’ range, this wouldn’t look out of place in a line-up of top wines from Pauillac in Bordeaux. Cedarwood and coffee bean-scented oak frames a youthful, layered, well-structured palate of blackberry, fig, and dark chocolate, with fine-grained tannins and the concentration to age further in the bottle.”
Marqués de Cáceres Gaudium 2021 is a refined, full-bodied Rioja built around Tempranillo, showing the depth, polish and structure expected from one of the estate’s most ambitious wines.
The palate is rich and layered, with flavors of blackberry, black cherry and ripe plum joined by notes of fig, dark chocolate, cedar, coffee bean and warm spice. The oak is well integrated, adding smoky and savory complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
Firm yet fine-grained tannins give the wine excellent structure, while fresh acidity keeps the palate balanced and energetic. The finish is long, polished and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, cocoa, spice and woodland notes.
A serious, age-worthy Rioja that can be enjoyed now with hearty dishes or cellared for further development.
Grape: Tempranillo
Region: Rioja, Spain
Style: Full-bodied, structured and elegant
Pairings: Roast lamb, grilled steak, braised beef, game, aged cheeses and mushroom dishes.
Louis Latour Marsannay Blanc 2023 750ml
Elegant and inviting, this white Burgundy balances a rounded texture with lively citrus and mineral freshness. The 2023 vintage opens with aromas of toasted almond, vanilla, and honeysuckle. On the palate, delicate acacia blossom and lemon notes bring brightness to its generous character, finishing with refreshing mineral definition.
Made from 100% Chardonnay grown in clay-limestone soils, this wine comes from Marsannay at the northern gateway to Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits. Grapes are hand-harvested from vines averaging 25 years of age, then fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation. Aging for eight to ten months in French oak barrels from Louis Latour’s own cooperage adds depth and a gentle toasted accent.
Expert Rating
93 James Suckling: This is a linear and vivid white with umami, fresh yeast and matchstick, as well as apples and green melon. Medium-bodied with depth and beauty. Spicy at the end. Exciting.
Wine Info
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Place: Marsannay, Côte de Nuits, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Marsannay AOC
Style: Dry white wine, aged in French oak
Shaw & Smith Sauvignon Blanc Adelaide Hills 2024 750ml
Sauvignon Blanc | Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Vintage: 2024 | Size: 750ml | Screw Cap
Shaw + Smith is one of Australia’s most celebrated boutique estates, founded in 1989 by Master of Wine Martin Shaw and winemaker Michael Hill Smith MW in the cool-climate Adelaide Hills. Their Sauvignon Blanc has become a benchmark for the variety in Australia — hand-harvested during a precise window of perfect ripeness from carefully selected sites, it delivers a level of quality and consistency that is, as the critics note, seemingly unnerving for the price point.
The 2024 is zesty, fresh, and vibrant — passionfruit, just-ripe pineapple, lychee, orange blossom, and cut grass on the nose, with pink grapefruit, green apple skin, and lemon peel on the palate. Tightly coiled and precise, with a generous mouthfeel, lively acidity, and a finish with a light chalky pucker and a distinctive salsa verde character. Moderately complex, beautifully even, and endlessly easy to drink.
“Perhaps one of Australia’s most famed sauvignon blancs with a seemingly unnerving level of quality for the pricepoint… zesty, fresh, bright and crisp… resplendent with passionfruit, just-ripe pineapple, lime and cut-grass characters.”
— Australian Wine Companion, 93 Points. (Vintage 2024).“The nose is fresh and vibrant, with refined aromas of lychees, orange blossoms, cut grass, candied limes and flint. The palate is light- to medium-bodied with precise acidity, a generous mouthfeel and notes of green apple skin, grapefruit pith and lemon peel.”
— James Suckling, 93 Points. (Vintage 2024).“It tastes the same every year, which is impressive considering the relative size of it… tightly coiled, fresh and zippy, with a distinct salsa verde character to close. This is very good.”
— Wine Advocate, 92 Points. (Vintage 2024).
Pairs with: Oysters, grilled fish, Thai green curry, goat cheese, asparagus, or a simple summer salad.
Te Pa "Oke" Marlborough Sauvingon Blanc 2024 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.
R.H. Coutier Cuvee Tradition Grand Cru Brut (Base 2021) 750ml (Introductory Pricing)
About R.H. Coutier
R.H. Coutier Tradition Brut (Base 2021) is a generous, characterful Champagne from one of Ambonnay's most respected grower-producers — a family estate with deep roots in this celebrated Grand Cru village of the Montagne de Reims. Composed of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay, sourced entirely from estate-grown fruit in Ambonnay, this is a classically styled Grand Cru Champagne with the depth and structure to accompany the table and the freshness to shine as an aperitif.
Tasting Notes
The nose opens with ripe orchard fruit, tangerine oil, honeycomb, mint, and freshly baked pastry — inviting and complex from the first pour. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a soft, pillowy mousse and a fleshy core of fruit, balanced by tangy acidity. Notes of tart lemon, lime, sourdough, and rhubarb add layers of complexity, while Ambonnay’s limestone-rich soils provide freshness and definition through the long, chalky finish. Rich yet energetic — a Champagne of genuine character.
Critical Acclaim
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate — 91 Points: “Exhibiting notions of waxy orchard fruit, honeycomb, mint, tangerine oil and fresh pastry, it’s medium to full-bodied, bright and pillowy, with tangy acids and a fleshy core of fruit. Full of flavor and character, this is a fine effort.”
Wine & Spirits — 91 Points: “The Coutier family blends 20 percent Chardonnay into the Pinot Noir for this cuvée, all of it estate grown in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay. The wine balances tart lemon and lime scents with notes of sourdough starter and rhubarb. Almost cakey in its richness, this has the limestone acidity to cut through rich foods, whether seared foie gras or braised short ribs.”
Food Pairings
Serve with roast poultry, seared foie gras, braised short ribs, mushroom dishes, rich seafood, aged cheeses, and buttery pastry-based appetizers. Equally compelling as a standalone aperitif.
Geoffroy 'Expression' 1er Cru Brut (Base 2021) Champagne 750ml (Introductory Offer)
Geoffroy “Expression” Premier Cru Brut is the signature non-vintage Champagne of this historic grower-producer. Built around the 2021 harvest and enriched with an equal proportion of reserve wines from a perpetual blend begun in 1970, Expression brings together ripe orchard fruit, red-fruit nuance, chalky minerality and a finely detailed mousse.
The blend is sourced from Premier Cru vineyards in Cumières and Hautvillers in the Vallée de la Marne. Pinot Noir and Meunier provide body, fruit and vinous depth, while Chardonnay contributes citrus freshness, precision and lift. A very low dosage of 3 grams per liter gives the wine a dry, focused profile while preserving the generosity and expressive fruit that define the Geoffroy style.
The Place
Expression reflects vineyards planted on the right bank of the Grande Vallée de la Marne, primarily around the Premier Cru village of Cumières, with additional fruit from Hautvillers Premier Cru.
Cumières lies between the Marne River and the forested slopes northwest of Épernay. Its favorably exposed hillside vineyards are particularly well suited to Pinot Noir and Meunier, producing wines with ripeness, generous fruit and notable vinosity. Chardonnay brings additional freshness and finesse to the final blend.
The soils vary across the source parcels and include clay-limestone, marl and sand. Clay contributes breadth and fruit concentration, while limestone and chalk provide freshness, structure and a persistent mineral character. The varied soils and exposures allow Geoffroy to create a layered Champagne that expresses the broader personality of the Vallée de la Marne rather than a single vineyard.
The Expression Cuvée
Expression is considered the introductory or foundational cuvée of Champagne Geoffroy, but its production is far from simple. The wine is assembled from several vineyard parcels, three grape varieties and an extensive collection of reserve wines.
The Geoffroy family describes Expression as its “memory wine,” connecting the character of the current harvest with previous generations. Each release combines a substantial proportion of the base vintage with wine drawn from the estate’s perpetual reserve, which was established by René Geoffroy in 1970.
This reserve system gives the Champagne consistency and complexity while allowing each new base vintage to remain visible. The youthful energy of 2021 is balanced by the depth, texture and maturity contributed by reserve wines spanning many previous harvests.
The Base-2021 Blend
The base-2021 release is composed of:
35% Meunier
35% Pinot Noir
30% Chardonnay
Approximately 50% of the blend comes from the 2021 harvest. The remaining 50% comes from Geoffroy’s perpetual reserve, which contains wines dating from its establishment in 1970 through the years preceding the 2021 harvest.
Meunier contributes aromatic fruit, suppleness and immediate charm. Pinot Noir gives the wine structure, depth and subtle red-fruit character. Chardonnay adds citrus freshness, floral lift and mineral precision.
Together, the three varieties produce a Champagne that is ripe and generous without becoming heavy, with firm acidity and chalky minerality preserving energy throughout the finish.
The 2021 Base Vintage
The 2021 growing season in Champagne was cooler and more difficult than several of the warm, dry vintages that preceded it. Careful vineyard selection was essential, but successful growers produced wines with bright acidity, aromatic freshness and a distinctly classical Champagne profile.
In Expression, the lively character of the 2021 base wine is complemented by the broader texture and maturity of the perpetual reserve. The result combines the freshness and tension of the vintage with the depth and continuity of a multi-vintage blend.
Viticulture
Champagne Geoffroy follows a practicing-organic and sustainability-focused approach in the vineyard. The estate avoids chemical weedkillers, encourages biodiversity, cultivates cover crops and works the soil to maintain healthy microbial activity and deeper root systems.
The grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness and carefully sorted before pressing. Geoffroy’s emphasis on ripe, healthy fruit is especially important because Expression is intended to display both freshness and a distinctive vinous richness.
The source vines are generally more than 30 years old and are distributed among multiple Premier Cru parcels in Cumières and Hautvillers.
Winemaking
The grapes are pressed in a traditional Coquard press. Vinification is conducted parcel by parcel, allowing the character of each vineyard, grape variety and soil type to be assessed before the final blend is assembled.
The base wines are fermented and matured in a combination of temperature-controlled enameled tanks and neutral oak barrels. The perpetual reserve is maintained in concrete tanks, which allow the reserve wine to develop texture and complexity without contributing overt oak flavor.
Malolactic fermentation is only partially completed for this release. Retaining a portion of the wine’s natural malic acidity helps preserve freshness and tension, while partial malolactic fermentation softens the texture and adds balance.
The assembled Champagne underwent secondary fermentation in bottle and matured for approximately 30 months on its lees. Extended lees contact contributes the creamy mousse and subtle notes of brioche, bread dough and pastry found in the finished wine.
The dosage is only 3 grams per liter, giving Expression a notably dry profile. This restrained dosage highlights the wine’s acidity, chalky mineral character and savory complexity while allowing its ripe fruit to remain expressive.
Tasting Notes
The base-2021 Expression pours a bright straw-yellow color with a persistent stream of fine bubbles. The bouquet opens with fresh apple, pear, quince and preserved lemon, accompanied by red currant, ripe black cherry and orange peel.
As the wine opens, additional notes of white flowers, crushed chalk, toasted brioche, pastry cream, smoke and subtle nuttiness emerge. The reserve-wine component contributes depth and maturity, while the 2021 base preserves aromatic freshness and energy.
The palate is medium-bodied, focused and beautifully balanced. Firm acidity is wrapped in a creamy, finely detailed mousse, producing a Champagne that feels both energetic and polished. Orchard fruit and citrus are joined by subtle red-fruit flavors, toasted bread and a lightly pithy texture.
A distinct mineral foundation runs through the wine, bringing notes of crushed stone and chalk to the foreground. The finish is crisp, savory and persistent, with preserved lemon, brioche and mineral flavors lingering after each sip.
Expression is approachable upon release, but its combination of reserve-wine complexity, vibrant acidity and extended lees aging allows it to develop additional richness and harmony with short-term cellaring.
Professional Ratings
93 Points — James Suckling: "Dry with delicious sliced-apple and chalk aromas and flavors with crushed-stone undertones. It™s medium-bodied with a focused palate and a crisp, delicious finish. Nicely done. Drink now." 2025-08-05
92 Points — Wine Spectator: "A mouthwatering version, with firm acidity swathed in the creamy, finely detailed mousse, this offers a rich, tightly meshed range of ripe black cherry, preserved lemon, toasted brioche, smoke and pastry cream flavors. A minerally underpinning drives the finish. Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Disgorged September 2024. 750 cases imported. - AN"
91 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "A bright yellow hue, the NV Champagne 1er Cru Expression Brut is from the 2020 vintage but includes perpetual reserve wines going back to 1970. The nose displays notes of nectarine, golden apples, hay, and a hint of nuttiness or bread. Medium-bodied, with good balance on the palate, it™s quite harmonious and very tasty all around, with a fluffy mousse, notes of orange citrus, and a clean, savory finish. It™s quite approachable and will drink well now or over the coming 5-7 years. 5 grams per liter dosage."
The Producer
The Geoffroy family has cultivated vines in Cumières since the 17th century. Jean-Baptiste Geoffroy represents the fifth generation of his family to grow grapes and produce wine in the Vallée de la Marne.
The family began placing greater emphasis on estate-bottled Champagne after the Second World War. In the 1970s, René Geoffroy decided to retain the family’s entire crop for Champagne production rather than selling grapes to larger houses. He also established the perpetual reserve that remains central to Expression today.
The estate now farms approximately 14 hectares, with most of its vineyards located in Cumières and additional parcels in Hautvillers, Damery and Fleury-la-Rivière. Although the winery and cellars are now located in Aÿ, the identity of Champagne Geoffroy remains deeply connected to the slopes of Cumières.
Jean-Baptiste Geoffroy’s approach combines careful vineyard work, ripe fruit, parcel-by-parcel vinification and restrained dosage. The wines are known for their balance of vinous depth, energetic acidity and precise expression of the Vallée de la Marne.
Food Pairing
Expression is an excellent aperitif, but its texture, low dosage and substantial reserve-wine component also make it a versatile food Champagne.
Serve with oysters, shrimp, crab cakes, smoked salmon, seafood pastries, scallops, sushi or tempura. It also pairs beautifully with roast chicken, veal sweetbreads, pork tenderloin, mushroom tart, aged Comté and other firm, savory cheeses.
The wine’s acidity and chalky finish cut through butter and cream, while its orchard-fruit, brioche and subtle red-fruit flavors complement roasted poultry, pastry-based appetizers and richer seafood dishes.
Serving and Cellaring
Serve at approximately 46–50°F. A white-wine glass rather than a narrow flute will allow the wine’s orchard fruit, brioche, mineral and reserve-wine aromas to develop more fully.
Expression is ready to drink upon release and may be enjoyed over the next five to seven years. Additional bottle age will soften the mousse and encourage more developed notes of toasted nuts, honey, pastry and dried orchard fruit.
Producer: Champagne Geoffroy
Cuvée: Expression
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Subregion: Vallée de la Marne
Villages: Cumières Premier Cru and Hautvillers Premier Cru
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Non-Vintage Brut Champagne
Base Vintage: 2021
Blend: 35% Meunier, 35% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay
Vintage Composition: 50% 2021 and 50% perpetual reserve
Perpetual Reserve: Established in 1970
Soils: Clay-limestone, marl and sand
Vine Age: Generally more than 30 years
Farming: Practicing organic and sustainability-focused
Harvest: Hand harvested and sorted
Press: Traditional Coquard press
Fermentation: Enameled tanks and neutral oak barrels
Reserve-Wine Aging: Concrete tanks
Malolactic Fermentation: Partial
Lees Aging: Approximately 30 months
Dosage: 3 grams per liter
Disgorgement: September 2024
Alcohol: Approximately 12.5%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Geoffroy “Expression” Premier Cru Brut Champagne — Base 2021
Mondot by Troplong Mondot Saint-Emilion 2021 750ml
Château Mondot Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2021
Perched atop a singular hill overlooking the ancient village of Saint-Émilion, Château Mondot has stood as an understated beacon of exceptional terroir since its creation in 1700. The estate — the second wine of the legendary Château Troplong Mondot — occupies a position like no other in the appellation, its lofty elevation and unique soil profile setting it apart from its neighbors on the limestone plateau.
The secret lies beneath the surface: Mondot's hill is one of the only places in Saint-Émilion where ancient Agenais Molasse clays, formed during the region's geological creation, have survived erosion to great depths, overlying the astéries limestone so characteristic of the appellation. This rare clay-over-limestone profile is the defining signature of Mondot's wines — lending them structure, freshness, and a distinctive mineral tension that sets them apart.
The 2021 Mondot holds a special place in the estate's history: it is the last vintage produced exclusively from Merlot grown on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau — a milestone worth cellaring. Bright and vibrant in character, the wine reflects the cool, precise nature of the 2021 vintage with crystalline energy and elegant restraint.
Deep ruby in the glass, the wine opens with floral wildflower and crushed flower aromas, followed by red cherry, blackberry, currant, orange peel, cola, mint, and white pepper, with a touch of toasted oak and blue fruit. The palate is refined and focused — not plush or heavy — with pure acidity, a gorgeous tannic structure, and a mouthwatering, saline finish with notes of liquorice and wet stone. Drink from 2027.
Wine Enthusiast — 93 pts
"Floral wildflower aromas. Partial wood aging has produced a wine with light toast and pure acidity. Black-currant flavors are dominant with bright acidity as well as structure. Drink from 2027." (Vintage 2021).
Decanter — 93 pts
"Beautifully delicate and fragrant — a touch of cola, blue fruits and salt with green pepper and toasted oak. Refined and focussed, crisp and mouthwatering, excellent energy and sense of life with a delicious moreish liquorice, wet stone finish. A serious, well-constructed wine with depth but no heaviness." (Vintage 2021).
James Suckling — 92 pts
"A vivid and bright red with currant, orange peel and some light spices. Medium body and fine tannins that turn dusty in the finish." (Vintage 2021).
Vinous — 91 pts
"A bright, vibrant wine. Crushed flowers, red cherry fruit, orange peel, mint and white pepper abound. A wine of crystalline energy and tension — super-impressive." (Vintage 2021).
Wine Advocate — 90 pts
"Charming and expressive, bursting with aromas of blackberries, plums, orange zest and spices. Medium to full-bodied, ample and velvety, seamless and suave, with succulent acids and a mouthwateringly saline finish. The last rendition of Mondot produced exclusively from Merlot growing on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau." (Vintage 2021).
Varietal: 100% Merlot (final vintage)
Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC, Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2021
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 WE | 93 Decanter | 92 JS | 91 Vinous | 90 WA
Veuve Clicquot Champagne ICE JACKET Brut NV 750ml
Veuve Clicquot · Yellow Label Brut · Limited Edition - ICE JACKET · Champagne, France · NV · 750ml
Veuve Clicquot is one of the great houses of Champagne — founded in Reims in 1772 and forever transformed by the Widow Clicquot herself, who invented the riddling rack and created the first vintage Champagne. The Yellow Label Brut is the house’s signature expression: a Pinot Noir-dominant blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, and 20% Pinot Meunier, with up to 45% reserve wines ensuring the consistency and house style that has made it one of the world’s most recognized Champagnes. The ICE JACKET edition wraps the bottle in a redesigned, eco-engineered insulating sleeve — crafted from 100% recycled plastic fibres using 3D knitting technology that reduces production waste by 30% — keeping the bottle perfectly chilled for up to 60 minutes. Lighter, reusable, and customizable.
Brilliant pale gold in the glass with fine, persistent bubbles and an expressive nose of baked apple, quince, salted almond, white blossom, and a thread of fresh citrus and pastry. On the palate: firm and beautifully structured, with a fleshy mouthfeel balanced by crisp acidity — sliced apple, green pear, red berry, lemon parfait, and oyster shell minerality carrying through a long, vibrant, mineral-driven finish. Four critics, four 90+ scores: Tasting Panel 93, James Suckling 92, Decanter 91, Wine Spectator 91. Drink now. Pair with oysters, lobster, sushi, fried chicken, aged Comté, or simply on its own to start any celebration.
- Producer: Veuve Clicquot (est. 1772, Reims)
- Wine: Yellow Label Brut · ICE JACKET Edition
- Style: NV Brut Champagne
- Origin: Champagne, France
- Blend: 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Meunier
- Reserve wines: Up to 45% in the blend
- ICE JACKET: Recycled plastic fibres · 3D knit · Keeps chilled 60 min · Reusable
- Scores: Tasting Panel 93 · James Suckling 92 · Decanter 91 · Wine Spectator 91
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Baked apple, quince, salted almond, white blossom, citrus, red berry, oyster shell, long mineral finish
- Pair With: Oysters · Lobster · Sushi · Fried chicken · Aged Comté · Aperitif
The Widow’s legacy, wrapped in innovation — Yellow Label Brut in the ICE JACKET that keeps the party going.
Expert Reviews
Tasting Panel — 93 Points
Aromas of baked apple and quince are energetically dappled with salted almond and white blossom, while the fleshy mouthfeel intersects neatly with firm acidity amid intimations of red berry and pastry.
James Suckling — 92 Points
Firm and delicious, showing sliced apples and green pears with some flint and bread dough. Medium-bodied with fine bubbles and a crisp, delicious finish.
Decanter — 91 Points
The nose offers yeasty bready aromas topped with fresh citrus, hints of stone fruit and strawberry tart. A palate of fresh croissants, red berries, green apple and lively lemon citrus, with lovely creaminess to the bright finish.
Wine Spectator — 91 Points
Appealing for its refreshing, aperitif style, with notes of patisserie apple and pear, lemon parfait, chopped almond and oyster shell. Vibrant acidity and lacy texture carry the profile on the mineral-driven finish.
67 Wine Bodegas Obalo Artist Series Rioja Crianza 2019 750ml Limited Edition
About This Wine
This is not your average Rioja. The 67 Wine Artist Series Rioja Crianza 2019 is a limited edition collaboration between 67 Wine, Bodega Obalo, and legendary Bronx-born street artist Cope2 — one of the most iconic names in graffiti history. The label is an original artwork created exclusively for 67 Wine, making every bottle a collectible as much as a wine.
Behind the art is a wine of genuine quality. Bodega Obalo, established in 2006 on the border of Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa, farms 100% hand-harvested grapes with rigorous sorting standards. The 2019 Crianza is 98% Tempranillo with small additions of Viura and Garnacha, gravity-crushed into small-batch tanks, fermented, and matured 12 months in French oak before additional bottle aging. Classic Rioja structure, modern winemaking precision.
Somm Pick
Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67wino.shop: “A classic Crianza crafted with modern winemaking techniques to highlight the purity and quality of the fruit. Elegant bouquet of red and black fruits, a floral note of violets, and a touch of baking spice. Round, supple tannins with a silky mouthfeel and crisp acidity that keeps the wine lively and engaging. A red Rioja full of life and personality — just like the label it bears.”
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby with garnet highlights
- Nose: Red and black fruits, violets, baking spice, subtle oak
- Palate: Medium body, round supple tannins, silky mouthfeel, vibrant acidity
- Finish: Lively, engaging, and persistent
Food Pairings
Mediterranean tapas, roasted lamb, grilled chorizo, aged Manchego, and mushroom-based dishes. Equally at home with Asian, modern French, or contemporary American cuisine.
Product Details
Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2019
Region: Rioja, Spain
Appellation: DOCa Rioja Crianza
Blend: 98% Tempranillo, 2% Viura & Garnacha
Oak Aging: 12 months, French oak
Style: Medium-bodied Red Wine
Label Art: Original artwork by Cope2, exclusively for 67 Wine
Castello di Verduno Barolo Massara 2022 750ml
In the northernmost commune of Barolo, perched in a castle that has stood since the early 1500s, the Burlotto family has quietly produced some of the most elegant Nebbiolo in Piedmont. Castello di Verduno has been theirs since 1909, and the Massara vineyard — planted on the chalky Marne di Sant’Agata soils that define the commune’s signature minerality — is among its finest expressions.
The 2022 Massara is, by any measure, a seriously impressive Barolo. Vinified in open-top wooden vats with an extended maceration using the traditional submerged cap method, then aged in large Austrian and Slavonian botti grandi, it carries the full weight of its terroir with uncommon grace. Bottled unfined and unfiltered — nothing added, nothing taken away.
On the nose: macerated cherry, new leather, spice, and pomegranate with an exotic, almost heady complexity. The palate is broad and ample, with a lovely textural intensity and a seamless mid-palate carried effortlessly by fine, ripe tannins through a long and structured finish. A standout of the vintage.
- Producer: Castello di Verduno
- Appellation: Barolo DOCG — Verduno, Piedmont, Italy
- Vineyard: Massara — Marne di Sant’Agata (30% sand, 55% clay, 15% limestone)
- Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
- Viticulture: Practicing organic, hand-harvested
- Bottling: Unfined & unfiltered
- Drink: Now through 2040+
Expert Review - Vintage 2022:
94 Vinous — “Seriously impressive… broad and ample, with a lovely level of textural intensity and complexity that is exceedingly rare in this vintage.”
Food Pairings: Braised short ribs, roast lamb, truffle risotto, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, wild boar ragù.
Roederer Estate Brut NV Sparkling Anderson Valley California Rose 750ml
Roederer Estate Brut Rosé NV Anderson Valley
When Louis Roederer — the Champagne house behind Cristal — established Roederer Estate in California's Anderson Valley in 1982, they chose the region for a reason: its cool, fog-driven climate, elevated acidity, and distinctive soils offered the conditions to make world-class sparkling wine with genuine Old World character. The Brut Rosé is the estate’s most expressive non-vintage bottling — a wine that consistently overdelivers at its price point and has earned a devoted following among sparkling wine lovers.
The multi-vintage blend is 56% Pinot Noir and 44% Chardonnay, with 10–15% oak-aged reserve wines from the estate’s cellars adding depth and complexity. Disgorged in May 2023 with a dosage of 8 g/L. The result is a wine of delightful precision: fully balanced between red fruit and acidity, with a rounded mid-palate, enduring finesse to the mousse, and the structure to age through 2035 and beyond.
Gorgeous salmon-pink in the glass, the wine opens with aromas of yeasty brioche, fresh raspberry, strawberry, white tea, and spiced orange zest. The palate is firm and focused, with dried raspberry, orange blossom, cranberry, dried rose petal, and mint, gliding into supple orange cream and white grapefruit on a dry, refreshing finish. Graceful, dynamic, and endlessly versatile.
Jeb Dunnuck — 94 pts
“Gorgeously pretty in a salmon hue… delightfully precise in nature, fully balanced between red fruit and acidity, with a rounded mid-palate and enduring finesse to the mousse. The acidity and structure are solidly impressive and should give the wine plenty of time to age through 2035, if not beyond.” — Virginie Boone
Wine Enthusiast — 93 pts
“Pale-pink salmon-hued with aromas of yeasty brioche, fresh raspberry, youthful strawberry, white tea and spiced orange zest. The midpalate is firm mousse, dried raspberry, orange blossom, gliding into supple orange cream and white grapefruit with a dry finish. Pair with life.” — Tonya Pitts
James Suckling — 93 pts
“This wine has gone on my ‘wines that always deliver’ list. Delicious and excellent value.”
Wine Spectator — 92 pts
“Graceful yet dynamic, with pretty strawberry and citrus flavors that take on fresh violet, orange peel and spice accents as this builds vibrancy toward the bright finish.” — Tim Fish
Vinous — 91 pts
“A serious but also very versatile Rosé. Cranberry, spice, dried rose petal and mint grace this understated, resonant Rosé. Fleshes out beautifully with a bit of time in the glass.” — Antonio Galloni
Blend: 56% Pinot Noir, 44% Chardonnay (+ 10–15% oak-aged reserve wines)
Appellation: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California
Style: Brut Rosé NV | Dosage: 8 g/L
Format: 750ml
Scores: 94 JD | 93 WE | 93 JS | 92 WS | 91 Vinous
Velich Tiglat Chardonnay 2021 750ml
Expert Review — Vintage 2021
Vinous 97 Points | Pure Chardonnay from the oldest vines of the estate, planted in 1959. Smoothness dominates the nose — almost salty hints of lanolin, a touch of Mirabelle and a lovely note of straw. The palate is intense, concentrated and pervasive, with uncompromising nakedness, dynamism and drive, dripping with lemon brightness, all bound up in earthiness reminiscent of fresh cep mushroom and profound, cooling limestone. Clarity is everything here. The finish is long, serene, touching and memorable. Bone-dry.

About the Wine
Velich Tiglat is the crown jewel of the Velich lineup — sourced from the estate’s original plantings from 1959 in Burgenland, Austria. The wine is fermented naturally and kept on full lees for at least 24 months, building extraordinary texture and complexity without compromising the bone-dry purity that defines the house style.
This is the pinnacle of the Velich range: Tó (young vines) → Darscho (35–50 year vines) → Tiglat (1959 vines). Each step up brings greater concentration, minerality, and aging potential.
Tasting & Pairings
Lanolin, Mirabelle, straw, lemon brightness, fresh cep mushroom, cooling limestone, and salt. Intense and concentrated yet profoundly clear. The finish is long, serene, and memorable. Serve lightly chilled — this demands time and attention in the glass.
- Lobster or scallops with brown butter — the wine’s concentration and lemon brightness elevate luxurious shellfish.
- Roasted turbot or Dover sole — noble white fish for a noble Chardonnay.
- Aged Comté (24+ months) — the depth and salinity of both are a stunning match.
Velich Darscho Chardonnay 2021 750ml
Expert Review — Vintage 2021
Vinous 94 Points | Pure Chardonnay from vines around 25 years old. The bright energy hits you with the first sniff — lift, brightness, and something immensely citric and pervasive. Exquisite shape: it glides and moves with agility, like a drop of liquid rolling across plumage — always entire, rounded, shining, smooth and mobile. The finish sinks into soil, draws you in, seasons the tongue with saltiness and floors you with incredible equanimity. Endless, profound, and ineffable. Bone-dry.

About the Wine
Velich Darscho is named after a smaller lake in the village near the estate in Burgenland, Austria. The fruit comes from vineyards that are 35–50 years old — significantly older than the Vinous note suggests (which references 25-year-old vines), reflecting the depth and complexity in the glass. This is Velich’s step up from the Tó cuvée, showing greater concentration, minerality, and aging potential.
Tasting & Pairings
Bright citrus energy, saltiness, soil-driven minerality, and an ineffably long finish. Bone-dry with exquisite shape and agility. Serve lightly chilled — this rewards patience in the glass as it opens.
- Roasted lobster or langoustines with brown butter — the wine’s richness and salinity are a perfect match.
- Roasted chicken with tarragon and crème fraîche — classic Chardonnay territory elevated by the wine’s minerality.
- Aged Comté or Gruyère — nutty, hard cheeses complement the wine’s depth and saline finish.
Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto 2023 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023
Decanter 96 Points | Super-fresh with balsamic herb, blueberry and floral aromatics, Guidalberto 2023 has blossomed into a grand vin all of its own. Invigorating cool forest berry flavours mingle with touches of spice and fine, silky tannins. So poised. Wow!"
Decanter Magazine
James Suckling 96 Points | This vintage shows a remarkable aromatic profile of Mediterranean herbs, cassis, black cherries, leather and earth with a kind of gamey depth. Full-bodied, it shows velvety, slightly sandy tannins with a firm structure, refreshing integrated acidity and a savory cedar finish.
The Wine Enthusiast 94 Points | On the nose, the density of blackberries and damp earth is balanced by the clean snap of pencil eraser and wild mint. The palate brings tangy, tart blackberries, black plums and citrus, alongside more wild mint and fennel, while smooth tannins sit back and watch a hot, acidic river carry the finish.
Jeb Dunnuck 92-94 Points | The 2023 Guidalberto was tasted as a preview and was a preliminary blend of barrel samples prepared for this tasting by the winery team, led by Carlo Paoli. The second sample that was blended was pure and ripe, with detailed layers of youthful cherry liqueur, fresh herbs, and lavender perfume. The palate offers medium to full-bodied richness, with a supple and primary feel, though it starts to reveal its underlying refined structure. While this was an early preliminary look at what the wine could look like, I’m looking forward to next year’s tasting to see how it develops.
The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Pure and juicy, revealing black cherry, blackberry, floral and Mediterranean herb notes, plus touches of spices. Light-bodied, elegant and deftly balanced, with a lingering, mouthwatering finish. This is approachable now but will benefit from another 612 months aging. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2032. 5,400 cases imported.
Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Guidalberto is another terrific wine from Tenuta San Guido in this vintage. Aromatic, medium in body and gracious, the 2023 is pure charm. Crushed flowers, bright red-toned fruit, spice and blood orange all pulse through a vibrant, refreshing Guidalberto that will drink well on release. The more refined side of Bolgheri is very much on display. This is a fine effort in a year marked by heavy rains and elevated disease pressure. What a delight.
Memo Summary Notes
The 2023 Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto is a highly acclaimed release from the legendary estate behind Sassicaia. Often called "Sassicaia’s little brother," Guidalberto is a distinct, standalone wine designed to be more approachable in its youth while still possessing the elegance of Bolgheri's coastal terroir.
In 2023, the blend shifted slightly due to a hot start to August that made the Merlot more challenging to manage. As a result, the Cabernet Sauvignon plays a more dominant role than in recent previous years.
Chateau Haut Selve Graves Blanc 2024 750ml
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024
James Suckling 90 Points | A flattering version, with star fruit, white peach and verbena notes backed by a rounded, shortbread-accented finish. Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc.
Memo Summary Notes
Château Haut Selve Graves Blanc 2024 is the newest release of this high-performing white Bordeaux. The 2024 vintage in Graves is characterized by vibrant acidity and intense aromatic profiles, as the cooler-than-average spring followed by a warm summer allowed for excellent "aromatic snap" in Sauvignon Blanc.
Varietals - Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, Semillon