90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

One of the Wines of the 2020 Vintage — Saint-Émilion at Its Most Magnificent

Château Valandraud is the legendary “garagiste” estate of Jean-Luc Thunevin, one of Saint-Émilion’s most celebrated and iconoclastic producers. Elevated to Premier Grand Cru Classé status, Valandraud is produced from the cooler, eastern side of Saint-Émilion and is renowned for its extraordinary concentration, perfume, and longevity. The 2020 — a blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 24 months in 100% new oak — has been called one of the wines of the vintage, earning back-to-back 99-point scores from Jeb Dunnuck and James Suckling and 98 points from Vinous.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

• Jeb Dunnuck — 99 pts: "One of the wines of the vintage. Incredible perfume of crème de cassis, ripe black cherries, violets, new leather, and an almost Hermitage-like burning embers character. Full-bodied richness, ripe seamless tannins, remarkable purity of fruit, and a finish that won’t quit. Give bottles 5–7 years in the cellar. Drink 2028–2053."
• James Suckling — 99 pts: "Very opulent and expressive aromas of black fruit and pine needles. So floral. Full-bodied with plush, velvety tannins and lots of fruit and texture. It goes on for minutes. Rich at the finish, but remains fresh and vivid. Superb. One of the great Valandrauds. Drink after 2027."
• Vinous — 98 pts: "A stunner. Rich, deep and explosive with dazzling intensity from start to finish. Silky tannins wrap around a core of plush dark red/black fruit, licorice, spice, mocha and new leather. Bright and wonderfully focused with sweet floral and blood orange accents on the explosive finish. Magnificent. Drink 2028–2060."
• Decanter — 96 pts (Jane Anson): "Broad-shouldered with ample depth — brambled fruits, liquorice, cigar box spice and a gorgeously saline finish. Chalky, grippy tannins with white flowers on the aromatics. 100% new oak for 24 months. Drink 2029–2046."
• Decanter — 93 pts (Georgina Hindle): "Juicy and alive with blackcurrant, black cherry and herbal-tinged blueberries. Layers of acidity, mint, freshness and toast. Full and complex with salty minerality and unmistakable signature. Drink 2027–2046."
• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: "Black currant and fig preserves, warmed black tea, melted black licorice and a hint of alder smoke, framed by a loam- and espresso crema-accented finish. Best from 2027 through 2040."
• Wine Advocate — 92 pts: "Aromas of jammy black fruits mingled with toasted coconut, spices and new oak. Full-bodied, rich and chewy with generously extracted tannins. Drink 2025–2043."
• Jancis Robinson — 17++ pts: "Deep crimson. Dark and oaky — lots of 70% dark chocolate. Big, dense tannins with enough fresh fruit to fill it out for the long term. Drink 2030–2045."

Winemaker Notes

Freshness and opulence, fruit and structure. A perfect balance.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Blend: 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Producer: Château Valandraud / Jean-Luc Thunevin
• Vintage: 2020
• Aging: 24 months, 100% new oak
• Yield: 49 hl/ha
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A wine of this stature deserves the finest table — exceptional with roasted lamb, beef tenderloin en croute, duck confit, aged Comté, and black truffle dishes. Also magnificent on its own as a meditation wine.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 98 Points
"Dark and complex wine, earthy and concentrated yet balanced. Vibrant aromas of cassis, violets, licorice, pencil shavings and graphite. Full-bodied, it displays a dynamic palate with dense, velvety tannins, fruit concentration and crisp, integrated acidity, which keeps it in balance. Gorgeous now, but even better in two or three years and beyond."

Wine Spectator — 95 Points (Bruce Sanderson)
"This is concentrated with cherry, blackberry, plum, iron, sweet spice and tar flavors. Muscular tannins leave a firm grip on the finish, yet overall, this red feels balanced and crunchy. Best from 2027 through 2040."

About Oreno

Oreno is the flagship wine of Tenuta Sette Ponti — a Bordeaux-inspired blend from the Valdarno di Sopra in eastern Tuscany that has established itself as one of Italy’s most celebrated Super Tuscans. First produced in 1999, Oreno is built around Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, with a small addition of Petit Verdot, and is crafted to express the unique terroir of the Sette Ponti estate: galestro and alberese soils at altitude, with a continental microclimate that delivers exceptional concentration and natural acidity. The 2023 vintage — 45% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot — is certified organic.

About Tenuta Sette Ponti

Tenuta Sette Ponti is a historic estate in the Valdarno di Sopra, situated on the hills above Arezzo in eastern Tuscany — a region that takes its name from the seven bridges (sette ponti) that once crossed the Arno River nearby. The estate has been owned by the Moretti Cuseri family since 1957 and produces wines of exceptional quality from its organically farmed vineyards. Under the direction of winemaker Carlo Ferrini, Tenuta Sette Ponti has become one of Tuscany’s most acclaimed estates, with Oreno consistently earning scores in the mid-to-high 90s from the world’s leading critics.

2023 Vintage Notes

The 2023 vintage in Tuscany delivered a warm, dry growing season with well-timed rainfall that preserved natural acidity and allowed for ideal phenolic maturity. The result across the region was wines of exceptional concentration, balance, and aromatic complexity — and for Oreno, a vintage that James Suckling rated among the finest in the wine’s history at 98 points.

Food Pairings

Bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised wild boar, roasted lamb, aged Pecorino Toscano, truffle pasta, and hearty Tuscan ragù. A Super Tuscan built for the table — drink now through 2040.

Product Details

• Producer: Tenuta Sette Ponti
• Wine: Oreno
• Appellation: Toscana IGT, Valdarno di Sopra, Tuscany, Italy
• Blend: 45% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot
• Farming: Certified organic
• Vintage: 2023
• Drink: Now through 2040
• Style: Full-bodied, complex, age-worthy Super Tuscan
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description 

A superb and age-worthy Barolo by Giacomo Conterno, from the Francia vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba. 100% Nebbiolo. Fermented with native yeasts and aged in large oak casks. Red fruits, roses, tar, licorice and spices notes. Powerful and complex. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018 

Expert Reviews 97 Points Wine Advocate | Of the three Barolo samples I tasted from barrel (including Arione and Cerretta, which are also from Serralunga d'Alba), the Giacomo Conterno 2018 Barolo Francia was the furthest behind and the hardest to pin down at this stage in its infancy. I have opened my range of scores accordingly to compensate for the magical unknowns that are likely to occur as the wine moves toward greater harmony and integration before its commercial release. The wine is linear and pointedly focused, lacking the width and volume it will gain when given more time to flesh out and relax. The aromas are also quite primary and simple at this point, with dark cherry and even a hint of ripe strawberry ceding gradually to grilled herb, blue flower and baked brick. This vintage of Barolo Francia will require patience. (2018).

95 Points Wine Spectator | Delivers depth and power, with menthol and wild herbs shading cherry and plum flavors. The balance tips toward the tannins in the end, yet this doesn't feel overly astringent, just more structured than many '18s. Picks up a mineral element as this lingers on the finish. Be patient. (2018).

95+ Points Vinous | The 2018 Barolo Francia is powerful, deep and also a touch austere. It shows the edginess of all the 2018s, but also has a feeling of textural creaminess that adds tons of character. Spice, menthol, leather and a whole range of balsamic overtones build into the deep, imposing finish. Roberto Conterno decided to forego his Barolo Monfortino in 2018, opting instead to blend all the casks into his Francia bottling. When that happens, Francia often surprises down the road. That could very well turn out to be the case here. (2018).

Monica Larner writes:  The Giacomo Conterno 2018 Barolo Francia has opened beautifully since I last tasted this wine at the winery two years ago. It was closed back then (no surprise since I tasted it as an unfinished sample), but with the distance of time, the wine has blossomed to show blackcurrant, cassis, aniseed, blue flower and pencil shaving. The Francia is known for its magical combination of power and nuance, both delivered with seamless intensity. This vintage offers a savory component with hints of toasted spice or spent ember. The tannins are fine and polished.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 95

Laurent-Perrier · Harmony Demi-Sec Champagne

Harmony is Laurent-Perrier’s Demi-Sec Champagne, rounded and delicate, with a high proportion of Chardonnay balanced by dosage. Its intense golden-yellow color leads into dried-fruit aromas of almond and hazelnut, with toasted notes. With age, the nose develops toward honey and pine resin. On the palate, it is full-bodied, generous and rounded.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast · 91 Points | This perfumed, off-dry Champagne is ripe with soft acidity and white fruits. Balanced with a fresh edge, the wine is ready to drink.

Winemaker Description

Laurent-Perrier Harmony is a Demi-Sec wine, rounded and delicate, thanks to a high proportion of Chardonnay and a well-balanced dosage. A brilliant and intense golden yellow in color. An intense and rich nose with notes of dried fruit (almonds and hazelnuts) as well as toasted or grilled aromas. After a few years of ageing, the nose evolves towards deeper notes of honey and pine resin. Full-bodied and generous, it is a rich wine with a rounded feel.

Pairings

Harmony brings out the best in sweet-savory dishes, desserts and pastries, and can add depth and flavor to a meal.

At a Glance

• Producer: Laurent-Perrier
• Cuvée: Harmony
• Style: Demi-Sec Champagne
• Origin: Tours-sur-Marne, Champagne, France
• Grape profile: High proportion of Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml

Off-dry balance, generous texture and toasted, honeyed notes make Harmony a natural alongside dessert.

Jules Lassalle established this family-owned Champagne house in 1942 in the village of Chigny-Les-Roses on the Montagne de Reims. His daughter and granddaughter, Chantal and Angéline, now run the domaine, following the same strictly-traditional standards Jules established. They use the same wooden basket press he installed in the winery over fifty years ago, pressing and vinifying the individual plots separately. It is one of the rare Champagnes that has been allowed to finish its malolactic fermentation, just like the great whites from the Côte d’Or. Every bottle is riddled by hand, and all cuvées are aged extensively once in bottle. This traditional blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir is best for luxuriant dishes, like lobster bisque baked en croûte.

The Cuvée

This grower Champagne's bottling embodies Lassalle's signature, bold-yet-finessed house style par excellence. The "Cuvée Préférence" is a subtle evocation of the senses, a constantly renewing enchantment of magical bubbles. A traditional blend of 60% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, the grapes come from 50-year-old vines planted in clay and limestone in over 13 premier cru hectares and farmed organically.

Expert Rating

“With an emphasis on pinot meunier (close to 60 percent), this wine shows the richness of its long aging on the lees in toasty notes and creamy textures. Its fresh cider-apple fruit lasts, brightening the wine’s line of chalky acidity to focus on a creamy chicken vol-au-vent.  91 points, Wine & Spirits (Dec 2020)

Technical Notes

• Aged 48 months on the lees before disgorgement
• Current disgorgement: Stamped on bottle
• Vintages in the current disgorgement: 2018, 2017
• Aged for a minimum of 4 months after blending in enamel lined tanks before bottling
• Dosage: 8g/L

Details

• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Region: Champagne, France
• Grapes: Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
• Type: Champagne

Expressive and generous, this distinctive Pinot Noir combines dark fruit and warm spice with refreshing energy. The 2022 vintage reveals aromas of black cherry, mocha, nutmeg, and licorice. On the palate, rich fruit and licorice notes are supported by pleasing tannins and lively freshness.

Grown in the southern Beaujolais countryside, “Les Pierres Dorées” brings Louis Latour’s Burgundian expertise to vineyards around Morancé and Theizé. Clay-limestone soils rich in iron oxide give the landscape its characteristic ochre color, while elevations of 280–400 meters help preserve freshness in the grapes.

Expert Rating

90 Points · James Suckling: “This pinot noir, from a high-altitude limestone terroir in the south of the Beaujolais region, has an eye-popping freshness. Juicy and crisp with plenty of crunchy sour cherry fruit plus a touch of licorice. Restrained tannins, but they are quite dry. These vineyards were planted from 2012 and now total 20 hectares.”

Made from 100% Pinot Noir, the wine is fermented in traditional open vats and aged for ten to twelve months in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Awarded 90 points by James Suckling, it offers an appealing balance of richness, aromatic complexity, and freshness.

Serve slightly cool alongside herb-crusted lamb, roasted quail, tuna tartare, or goat cheese.

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Place: Southern Beaujolais, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Coteaux Bourguignons AOC
Style: Dry red wine
Aging: 10–12 months in stainless steel and French oak
Serving temperature: 57–61°F (14–16°C)
Producer’s cellaring potential: 5–7 years

Bright citrus, delicate flowers, and refined minerality define this elegant Premier Cru white Burgundy. The 2024 vintage offers aromas of white orchard fruit, pear, and citrus zest, followed by a medium-bodied palate revealing lime, bergamot, and nectarine. A long finish carries subtle saline and chalky notes, bringing freshness and precision to every sip.

Made from 100% Chardonnay, this cuvée brings together selected Premier Cru parcels in Pouilly-Fuissé, in Burgundy’s southern Mâconnais region. The area’s limestone and clay soils provide the foundation for a wine that combines expressive fruit with distinctive mineral character. 

Expert Rating

93 Points · James Suckling: A nice white showing aromas of minerals and flowers. Bergamot, limes and some nectarines on the medium-bodied palate. Long, lightly saline and chalky at the end. Drink now or hold.

Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Place: Pouilly-Fuissé, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Pouilly-Fuissé AOC — Premier Cru
Style: Dry white wine

96 Points Wine Enthusiast • 95 Points James Suckling • 93 Points Club Oenologique

Crafted from grapes grown on vines more than 80 years old, this Tempranillo-led Gran Reserva combines depth, elegance and the character of mature Rioja. Fruit comes from Marqués de Riscal’s own vineyards and longstanding grower partners. The 2018 vintage spent 28 months in French oak, developing a rounded texture and beautifully integrated oak character.

Deep cherry in color with violet highlights, it offers layered aromas of dark fruit, balsamic notes and delicate oak toast. The palate is generous and polished, with concentrated, rounded tannins and a lingering finish. A refined Rioja with the structure for further cellaring and the complexity to complement a memorable meal.

Professional Reviews

Wine Enthusiast — 96 Points | Cellar Selection
Blackberry, savory olive and dried herbs introduce a layered palate of plum and raspberry, with floral accents, cocoa and sage. Velvety tannins carry the fruit into a persistent finish. Recommended drinking through 2038.
Review summary — Mike DeSimone, October 2024.

James Suckling — 95 Points
Praised for its depth and complexity, this wine combines berry fruit with subtle vanilla, dried citrus, pepper and earthy mushroom nuances. The palate delivers intensity and generous fruit, balanced by fine spice and a particularly long finish. Suitable for drinking now or further cellaring.
Review summary — Zekun Shuai, JamesSuckling.com.

Club Oenologique — 93 Points
Awarded in The Rioja Report 2024, as confirmed by the winery’s vintage technical sheet.

Food Pairing: Roasted lamb, grilled beef, game dishes, cured ham and aged Manchego.

Region: Rioja DOCa, Spain
Grapes: Tempranillo-led blend
Aging: 28 months in French oak
Alcohol: 14.5%
Serving Temperature: 61–64°F (16–18°C)

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

Expert Reviews

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

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

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

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

VINEYARD

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

WINEMAKING

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

VINTAGE

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

TASTING NOTE

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

FOOD PAIRING

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

Egly-Ouriet | Les Crayères VV | Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut | Ambonnay, Montagne de Reims, Champagne | Practicing Organic

Egly-Ouriet is one of Champagne's most revered grower-producers, based in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay on the Montagne de Reims. Francis Egly farms his parcels with meticulous care — practicing organic viticulture, harvesting by hand, and working exclusively with indigenous yeasts — producing Champagnes of uncommon depth, vinous texture, and site-driven precision that have earned the domaine a cult following among collectors and sommeliers worldwide.

Among the rarest and most celebrated wines in the Egly-Ouriet portfolio, Les Crayères VV is a single-vineyard Blanc de Noirs made entirely from old-vine Pinot Noir. VV stands for Vieilles Vignes — old vines. The fruit comes exclusively from the legendary Les Crayères parcel, located just east of Ambonnay, planted largely in 1946 and 1947. The vineyard occupies a prized south-facing site with only a thin layer of topsoil above a deep bed of pure chalk — the name Les Crayères itself refers to this intensely chalky terroir. Very old vines, naturally low yields, and chalk-rich soils produce Pinot Noir of extraordinary concentration, minerality, and freshness.

Harvested by hand and fermented with indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels (small proportion of new oak), with malolactic fermentation blocked to preserve energy and acidity. The wine spends approximately six years aging on its lees before disgorgement, and is finished with an exceptionally low dosage — bottled unfined and unfiltered, preserving its depth, texture, and individual vineyard character.

Deep golden in the glass. Aromas of ripe pear, dried apple, red berries, and bitter orange unfold alongside toasted brioche, roasted nuts, honey, cocoa, and warm baking spices. The palate is full-bodied and concentrated — fine, persistent mousse, layers of red fruit, ginger, cardamom, and toasted pastry, balanced by mouthwatering acidity, pronounced chalky structure, and a long, saline mineral finish. Although immediately impressive, this is a Champagne built to develop gracefully in the cellar.

An exceptional Champagne for the table — pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, lobster, roasted poultry, duck, charcuterie, wild mushrooms, richly flavored fish, aged Comté, Parmesan, and other firm, mature cheeses.

• Producer: Egly-Ouriet
• Cuvée: Les Crayères VV (Vieilles Vignes)
• Classification: Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut
• Appellation: Ambonnay, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
• Vineyard: Les Crayères single parcel, Ambonnay
• Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vine Age: Planted 1946 & 1947
• Farming: Practicing organic
• Soils: Pure chalk with thin topsoil
• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts; French oak barrels (small % new)
• Malolactic Fermentation: Blocked
• Lees Aging: ~6 years
• Dosage: Exceptionally low
• Bottling: Unfined and unfiltered
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Base vintages, dosage, and disgorgement dates may vary by release.

Egly-Ouriet | Les Vignes de Bisseuil | Premier Cru Extra Brut | Bisseuil, Montagne de Reims, Champagne | Biodynamic

Egly-Ouriet is one of Champagne's most revered grower-producers, based in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay on the Montagne de Reims. The domaine farms its parcels with meticulous care — practicing organic and biodynamic viticulture, harvesting by hand, and working exclusively with indigenous yeasts — producing Champagnes of uncommon depth, vinous texture, and site-driven precision.

Les Vignes de Bisseuil is the estate's Chardonnay-led expression, drawn from a 1.5-hectare parcel in the Premier Cru village of Bisseuil, situated directly beside the Grand Cru of Aÿ. South-facing, chalk-rich slopes and vines over 40 years old deliver fruit of concentration, freshness, and crystalline mineral definition — a brighter, more finesse-driven counterpoint to the domaine's powerful Pinot Noir-dominant cuvées.

The current release blends 70% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Noir, and 15% Pinot Meunier, fermented and matured in French oak barrels with approximately 10% new oak. Malolactic fermentation is blocked to preserve natural acidity and tension. The wine spends approximately 48 months aging on its lees before disgorgement, and is finished with a dosage of approximately 1 gram per liter — bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Bright and expressive on the nose: lemon zest, crisp pear, Mirabelle plum, and white flowers, with notes of fresh bread, toasted nuts, white pepper, and subtle spice. The palate is concentrated yet energetic — refined mousse, vibrant citrus acidity, and a pronounced chalky minerality, with ripe orchard fruit and a gently creamy texture leading to a long, precise, and saline finish.

Exceptional as an aperitif; equally at home alongside oysters, shellfish, smoked salmon, grilled fish, sushi, roast chicken, charcuterie, creamy cheeses, and lightly aged Comté.

• Producer: Egly-Ouriet
• Cuvée: Les Vignes de Bisseuil
• Classification: Premier Cru Extra Brut
• Appellation: Bisseuil, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
• Grape Varieties: 70% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Noir, 15% Pinot Meunier
• Vine Age: 40+ years
• Farming: Practicing organic / biodynamic
• Soils: Chalk-rich
• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts; French oak barrels (~10% new)
• Malolactic Fermentation: Blocked
• Lees Aging: ~48 months
• Dosage: ~1 g/L
• Bottling: Unfined and unfiltered
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim

• James Suckling — 94 pts: Bright and precise, with lemon zest, pear, and white flowers on the nose. Concentrated yet energetic on the palate — chalky minerality, vibrant acidity, and a long saline finish. A benchmark grower Champagne from Bisseuil.
• Decanter — 93 pts: Refined and mineral-driven, with crisp orchard fruit, toasted nuts, and a creamy mousse. Exceptional freshness and length.
• Wine Advocate — 93 pts: Elegant and focused, with a pronounced chalky character and impressive depth. Unfined and unfiltered — a pure expression of Bisseuil terroir.

Blend proportions, base vintages, lees-aging period, dosage, and disgorgement date may vary by release.

Castello ColleMassari | Rigoleto | Montecucco Rosso DOC | Tuscany, Italy | 2023 | Organic

Castello ColleMassari is the most important and largest estate of the Montecucco appellation — a 1,200-hectare property in the hills of southern Tuscany that includes 120 hectares of vineyards and nearly 90 hectares of olive groves, three of which are over 900 years old. The estate was acquired in 1999 by Claudio Tipa and his sister Maria Iris Bertarelli, who restored the ColleMassari castle — a 13th-century fortress that was originally the homestead of area nobility — and transformed it into one of Tuscany's most celebrated organic wine estates. The vineyards on the Montecucco hill are home to some of the oldest Sangiovese vines in the DOCG.

Rigoleto is ColleMassari's entry-level expression — a blend of organically grown Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo, and Montepulciano that captures the fresh, fruit-driven character of Montecucco with an easy, approachable style. Shimmering ruby red in the glass. The nose is fresh, vinous, and balsamic — tart blackberries, cherry, fresh thyme, menthol, and earthy topsoil. On the palate, fresh, soft, and inviting with tart, snappy black cherries, juicy fruit, harmonious structure, and a hot, peppery finish with chalky tannins that keep the wine lively and food-friendly.

Pair with pasta with tomato sauce, pizza, grilled meats, charcuterie, and aged pecorino.

• Producer: Castello ColleMassari
• Cuvée: Rigoleto
• Appellation: Montecucco Rosso DOC, Tuscany, Italy
• Blend: Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo, Montepulciano
• Vintage: 2023
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

• Wine Enthusiast — 91 pts: Fresh, earthy nose of tart blackberries, topsoil and herbs. Tart, snappy black cherries on the palate with a hot, peppery finish. Tannins are structured but chalky enough to tone down the heat.
• Falstaff — 90 pts: Shimmering ruby red. Blackberry, cherry and fresh thyme on the nose. Juicy and fresh on the palate, fruit-orientated, harmonious structure, medium length.

Rombauer Vineyards · Sauvignon Blanc · Napa & Sonoma Counties · California · 2025

Rombauer Vineyards has long been synonymous with California’s most hedonistic whites — and their Sauvignon Blanc, affectionately known as “California Sunshine in a Glass,” is no exception. Sourced from two estate vineyards in Sonoma prized for freshness and vibrancy, blended with select warmer sites in Napa County, the wine is farmed sustainably with NDVI aerial imaging to optimize each block individually. Whole-cluster pressed, fermented primarily in stainless steel with a portion in French oak and concrete for texture, and bottled under screwcap to lock in every bit of its aromatic intensity. 91 points from James Suckling.

The 2025 was shaped by a long, cool growing season — heavy winter rains replenishing the water table, followed by slow, even ripening through a cool spring and summer — yielding a wine of exceptional freshness and aromatic precision. Pale lemon-green in the glass, it bursts with key lime, freshly cut grass, grapefruit, stone fruit, and lychee. The palate is mid-weighted with brilliant acidity, a textured mouthfeel, and a linear, bright, mouthwatering finish that keeps you reaching for the next sip.

“Generous, fresh and vibrant, with white pepper, stone fruit, lychee and sliced lemon. The palate is mid-weighted with balanced acidity and textured mouthfeel with a linear, bright finish and freshness.”
— James Suckling · 91 Points (Vintage 2025). 

• Producer: Rombauer Vineyards, St. Helena, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Napa & Sonoma Counties, California
• Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Sustainable; NDVI precision viticulture; night harvest
• Vinification: Whole-cluster press; stainless steel + French oak + concrete tank fermentation
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Key lime, freshly cut grass, grapefruit, stone fruit, lychee, white pepper, bright acidity, textured finish
• Pairings: Persian herbed omelet, green curry, fried fish tacos, grilled seafood, goat cheese, light salads

JS:91 · Napa & Sonoma — California’s most aromatic Sauvignon Blanc. Sustainably farmed, screwcap fresh, and built for sunshine.

Roberto Henríquez · 'Rivera del Notro' Blanco · Itata Valley · 2024

Roberto Henríquez is one of Chile's most important natural wine voices — a tireless champion of the Itata Valley, a region in the Bio-Bío that was making wine centuries before Maipo or Colchagua ever appeared on a label. His vineyards are planted with the old-vine field blends that Spanish missionaries brought to Chile in the 16th century: Sémillon, Chasselas, and Moscatel de Alejandría, grown on granite soils by small-scale farmers who have tended these vines for generations. The 'Rivera del Notro' Blanco — named for the notro tree that blooms red along the riverbanks of Itata — is his signature white: a modern-day interpretation of ancestral Chilean winemaking, vinified with extended skin contact that unlocks a depth and complexity no stainless-steel Chardonnay can touch. WA:92. At $20.99, it's one of the most exciting natural whites in South America.

The 2024 opens with a heady, complex bouquet of potpourri, resinous herbs, dried flowers, and a hint of saison beer — the unmistakable signature of skin-contact vinification done right. On the palate: svelte and elegantly concentrated, with a broad, refreshing finish that lingers with phenolic grip, a streak of bright acidity, and retronasal floral notes that keep pulling you back. Serve slightly cool — this is a wine for the table, not the cocktail hour. Drink now through 2027.

“A modern-day interpretation of ancestral Itata white wines… svelte, elegantly concentrated mouthfeel. The finish is broad and refreshing, lingering with phenolic grip laced with a streak of acidity and retronasal floral notes.”
— The Wine Advocate, 92 Points

• Producer: Roberto Henríquez
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Itata Valley, Bio-Bío, Chile
• Blend: Sémillon, Chasselas & Moscatel de Alejandría (old vines, granite soils)
• Style: Skin-contact white (orange wine)
• Vinification: Extended skin contact · Ancestral field blend · Natural winemaking
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Potpourri, resinous herbs, dried flowers, saison beer, phenolic grip, bright acidity, lingering floral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Food Pairings: Grilled fish, roasted chicken, aged goat cheese, charcuterie, spiced Middle Eastern dishes

WA:92 — ancient Itata field blends, granite soils, and skin-contact depth at a price that makes it a no-brainer.

About This Wine

Beaulieu Vineyard — BV — is one of Napa Valley's most storied estates, founded in 1900 and home to the legendary Georges de Latour Private Reserve. The BV Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is the house's approachable flagship: a Bordeaux-inspired blend drawing from Rutherford, Calistoga, and St. Helena, aged 15 months in French and European oak. Generous, polished, and built for immediate enjoyment.

The 2022 vintage delivers a warm, fruit-forward profile — strawberry, black cherry, and cassis up front, with kola nut, mocha, and toasted oak in support. The blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah, Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, and Petit Verdot adds mid-palate plushness and a lingering, finessed finish. Medium-bodied with soft tannins and a lovely mouthfeel, this is a Napa Cab that delivers at the table tonight.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby
• Nose: Caramel, ripe red berries, strawberry, black cherry, cassis
• Palate: Medium body, juicy red and black fruit, blueberry, kola nut, mocha, toasted oak
• Finish: Soft tannins, tangy freshness, lingering and finessed

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 93 | Focused and brilliant flavors of red and black cherries and black currants drive this sleek and powerful wine, as minty, toasty, and tobacco-like accents stay subtly in the background. A full body, medium to full tannins and good fruit acidity lend tangy freshness. Best from 2026.

James Suckling 92 | A warm and generous wine with a sweet-seeming richness that makes it easy to sip without further aging. Full-bodied, laced with mostly red fruit — strawberries to cherries — with underlying blueberry, cocoa and crème de cassis notes. Drink now.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, roasted chicken, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and tomato-based pasta. Versatile enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2022
Region: Napa Valley, California
Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Syrah, 5% Malbec, 3% Petite Sirah, 2% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot
Oak Aging: 15 months, French & European oak (30% new)
Style: Full-bodied Red Wine

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Vinous 93 Points | The 2023 Flycatcher is a blend of 36% Zinfandel, 15% Cinsault, 13% Petite Sirah, 13% Carignane, 10% Tempranillo, 9% Merlot and 4% Syrah. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, cinnamon and crushed flowers soar from the glass. This vibrant, exuberant red offers tons of forward fruit buffered by brisk acids that add notable energy. Eminently quaffable, the 2023 also has plenty of complexity to satisfy more intellectually curious wine lovers.

Winemaker Notes

A love letter to California, Flycatcher is our newest wine that celebrates the wonderful and diverse terroirs of our home state — from Lodi to Los Carneros. An ambitious prospect we know, capturing the whole of California in a bottle, but we’ve been guided by some seriously inspiring growers and treasured vineyards that fitted together in a way that felt, and tasted, just right.

Frog’s Leap Flycatcher 2023 is a California red blend crafted to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of the state’s wine country. It’s designed as a fresh, approachable, and food-friendly wine made from a mix of grapes sourced “with intention” from heritage vineyards across California, reflecting different terroirs beyond the winery’s Napa home.

The blend typically features a variety of varietals — including Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Tempranillo, Cinsault, Carignane, and Syrah — that together create a generous, fruit-forward profile with red berry aromatics, savory depth, and balanced structure. The result is a versatile, everyday red that’s vibrant and layered, with flavors of ripe strawberries, blueberries, spice, and herbal notes, making it easy to enjoy on its own or paired with a wide range of foods.

Onna Blanc By Ramon Canals Xarel.lo Ecologic Penedes 2025 · Penedes, Spain

Producer Description

Onna Xarel.lo is a white wine produced with the grape variety Xarel.lo from 100% organic certificate old vines grown in Penedés region. The juice was cold macerated with the skins to obtain the distinctive qualities of this indigenous grape variety. Onna presents a pale yellow color with white and tropical fruit aroma, full-bodied, pleasant and dry. It is an organic and vegan certificate wine.

Awards

GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2025
GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2024
GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2023
GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2022
GOLD MEDAL – CATAVINUM WORLD WINES & SPIRITS AWARDS 2022
GOLD MEDAL – CATAVINUM WORLD WINES & SPIRITS AWARDS 2021
GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2021
GOLD MEDAL – GILBERT & GAILLARD 2019
SILVER MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2018

Details

• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Region: Penedes, Spain
• Grape: Xarel.lo
• Type: White
• Farming: Organic
• Vegan

Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 750ml

Explore the excellence of Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, a captivating red wine that expertly balances boldness and finesse. This super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon is structured and deep, showcasing the exceptional winemaking that has made Orin Swift one of California's most celebrated producers. With an impressive 96-point score from James Suckling, this vintage reveals an intricate tapestry of flavors that both novice and seasoned wine lovers will appreciate.

Outstanding Critical Acclaim - 96 Points - Vintage 2023

James Suckling - 96 Points
"A super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy red that's structured and deep, with black cherry flavors on an elegant texture. Very focused, showing supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit, graphite, cocoa, black olive and tobacco leaf flavors. Full-bodied but still balanced."

Orin Swift - California Wine Excellence

Orin Swift is one of California's most celebrated wine producers, known for creating bold, distinctive wines with exceptional quality and character. Founded by winemaker Dave Phinney, Orin Swift has earned a reputation for producing wines that push boundaries while maintaining balance and elegance. The MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon represents the pinnacle of their Cabernet production.

Super-Concentrated & Age-Worthy

As James Suckling notes, this is "a super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy red that's structured and deep." The wine's concentration and structure provide the foundation for exceptional aging potential, making it both enjoyable now and worthy of cellaring for years to come.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep, concentrated color
Aroma: Black cherry, graphite, cocoa, black olive, and tobacco leaf. Dark fruits like blackberry and plum with hints of chocolate, tobacco, and spices
Palate: Very focused with supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit. Black cherry flavors on an elegant texture. Graphite, cocoa, black olive and tobacco leaf flavors. Full-bodied but still balanced. Smooth mouthfeel characteristic of high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon
Finish: Structured and deep with lingering complexity

Napa Valley Terroir

The careful crafting of this wine allows it to reflect the unique terroir of the Napa Valley, ensuring a full-bodied experience. Napa Valley's ideal climate and soil conditions create the perfect environment for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon with depth, concentration, and elegance.

Very Focused & Elegant Texture

The wine is "very focused, showing supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit" according to James Suckling. This focus and elegance demonstrate the precision winemaking that defines Orin Swift's approach, creating a wine that is powerful yet refined.

Full-Bodied but Still Balanced

Despite its super-concentration and full-bodied character, this Cabernet Sauvignon maintains exceptional balance. This harmony between power and elegance makes it approachable while showcasing the complexity that defines great Cabernet Sauvignon.

Remarkable Aging Potential

One of the standout features of the Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is its remarkable aging potential. Crafted with careful attention to detail, this wine benefits from extended cellaring, allowing the flavors to deepen and evolve over time. It can be enjoyed fresh, revealing its vibrant fruit characters, or aged for several years to develop complex nuances that enhance its profile. Wine enthusiasts will find that this Cabernet evolves gracefully in the bottle.

2023 Vintage Excellence

The 2023 vintage showcases the exceptional quality and character that defines MERCURY HEAD. This vintage reveals an intricate tapestry of flavors, encompassing dark fruits, graphite, cocoa, black olive, and tobacco leaf, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Food Pairing Suggestions

To fully appreciate the richness of Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, consider pairing it with hearty dishes that match its robust character:

• Grilled meats - ribeye steaks and lamb chops
• Rich pasta dishes
• Aged cheeses
• Charcuterie board with salami and aged cheeses
• Dark chocolate
• Braised short ribs
• Roasted game meats

Perfect for Special Occasions

The wine's bold profile complements the flavors of hearty dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience. Each sip offers a smooth mouthfeel, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions, whether you're celebrating a special moment or enjoying an elevated dinner at home.

Excellent Addition to Any Collection

This age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon makes an excellent addition to any wine collection or a thoughtful gift for wine aficionados. The combination of super-concentration, structure, and aging potential ensures this wine will develop beautifully over time.

Graphite, Cocoa & Black Olive Complexity

The complex flavor profile featuring graphite, cocoa, black olive, and tobacco leaf creates layers of interest that reveal themselves with each sip. This complexity, combined with the elegant texture and supple tannins, demonstrates the artistry of Orin Swift's winemaking.

Structured & Deep Character

The structured and deep character of this wine provides both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging potential. The careful balance between concentration and elegance ensures that MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a memorable experience whether enjoyed young or after years of cellaring.

Antinori Napa Valley Chardonnay A-26 Vineyard — Napa Valley 2022

The Antinori family has been making wine for over six centuries, and their Napa Valley project brings that same uncompromising pursuit of excellence to California’s most celebrated appellation. The A-26 Vineyard Chardonnay is sourced from a single estate block in Napa Valley, vinified to showcase the site’s natural tension between richness and precision. The 2022 vintage is a tour de force — earning 95 points from James Suckling and 94 from Wine Spectator — a Chardonnay of extraordinary balance, energy, and detail that drinks beautifully now and will reward cellaring through 2031.

The nose is bright and inviting: white nectarine, Meyer lemon, salted lemon, marzipan, raw almonds, dried flowers, honeysuckle, and toasted brioche. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, delicate and sleek — a wonderful tension between rich aromatics and a juicy thread of fresh Fuji apple, lemon curd, and caramelized pineapple, all framed by beautiful, energizing acidity. The finish is silky, long, and highly detailed.

James Suckling 95 — “Delicate and sleek with beautiful acidity that brings balance and energy. Silky and lingering.” (Vintage 2022).

Wine Spectator 94 — “What makes this wine memorable is the wonderful tension between rich aromatics and its sleek, juicy thread of fresh Fuji apple, lemon curd and caramelized pineapple. Long, expressive and highly detailed finish.” (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Antinori, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Vineyard: A-26 Estate Vineyard
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White nectarine, Meyer lemon, marzipan, honeysuckle, toasted brioche, Fuji apple, lemon curd, caramelized pineapple, silky finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2031
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roast halibut, truffle risotto, soft-ripened cheeses, roast chicken with cream sauce

Six centuries of Italian winemaking mastery, one exceptional Napa vineyard — Antinori’s A-26 Chardonnay is California through a Florentine lens.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Brut Nature Reserva blends Macabeo and Xarel·lo from Penedès and was aged 2 years on lees. Citrus, lime, soft herbs and a nutty note define the nose. Dry and vibrant, it has fine, well-integrated bubbles, a touch of malic grip and a saline finish. 

Winemaker Description 

The grapes are pressed directly cold and without de-stemming.

Base wine aged for 7 months in stainless steel tanks and 500L French oak barrels.

Second fermentation is carried out with concentrated must from our own vineyards and minimum aging of 20 months on lees in the bottle.

Manual riddling on pupitres and disgorging without freezing. Zero dosage. 

Memo Summary Notes

The AT Roca Rosat Reserva Brut Nature 2023 is a high-quality sparkling rosé from the Corpinnat collective in the Penedès region of Spain. Crafted by Agustí Torelló Roca, this wine is a standout for those who appreciate precision, organic viticulture, and a bone-dry finish.

You might notice it isn't labeled as "Cava." AT Roca is part of Corpinnat, an elite group of producers who broke away from the Cava DO to maintain stricter quality standards, including 100% organic grapes, hand-harvesting, and vinification entirely on the estate.

Pairing: Its high acidity and bone-dry profile make it incredible with sushi, oily fish (like salmon), or light Mediterranean rice dishes. It’s also sharp enough to cut through fried appetizers or salty cured meats.

Expert Review — Vintage 2021

Vinous 92 Points | A blend of Chardonnay, Welschriesling and Sauvignon Blanc from the younger vines of the estate (~15 years old). Gentle nuttiness and a touch of tatami mat on the nose, very subtle and calm. With air, a hint of butter emerges. The palate is all clarity, all lightness and all brightness on a super-slender frame that is soothing and smooth. Bone-dry.

About the Wine

Velich Tó White takes its name from the Hungarian word for "lake" — a nod to the estate’s proximity to Neusiedlersee in Burgenland, Austria. The Tó cuvée is sourced from the estate’s younger vines (15–25 years old) and blends Chardonnay, Welschriesling, and Sauvignon Blanc into a wine of remarkable purity and restraint.

Velich is one of Burgenland’s most respected producers, known for precision winemaking and a deep connection to terroir.

Tasting & Pairings

Gentle nuttiness, tatami mat, butter, orchard fruit, and citrus. Super-slender, bone-dry, and soothing with bright clarity and a smooth finish. Serve well chilled.

• Seafood — oysters, ceviche, or grilled branzino — the wine’s slender frame and acidity are ideal.
• Roasted chicken with herbs — the subtle nuttiness and butter notes complement poultry beautifully.
• Soft-ripened cheese or fresh burrata — the bone-dry finish cleanses the palate between bites.

Critical Acclaim

• James Suckling – 96 Points | “Aromas of iodine and oyster shell mingle with black cherries and dark brambleberries. Medium-bodied with firm, racy tannins. Drinkable now but even better after 2028.”
• Wine Advocate – 94 Points | “Solid core of dark fruit, cherry, and redcurrant, with spice and dried rose petal elegantly layered. Classic vintage expression with firm tannins and long-term aging potential.”
• Wine Enthusiast – 93 Points | “Layer upon layer of red and black berries, sweet tobacco, and woodland spice. Pure Nebbiolo power with firm tannins and infinite depth.” Drink Now–2040.
• Jeb Dunnuck – 92 Points | “Bright red, focused, spicy, and pure. Wild raspberries, clove spice, dried orange peel, and dried earth. Medium-bodied, structured, and built to age.” Drink 2025–2040.

Tasting Notes

A complex and aromatic Barbaresco with notes of iodine, oyster shell, black cherry, dark brambleberries, clove, dried orange peel, and dried rose petal. On the palate, firm and racy tannins carry flavors of layered red and black fruit, sweet tobacco, and woodland spices. The finish is long, structured, and elegant — classic Nebbiolo linear tension with serious age-worthy depth.

About the Wine

Pio Cesare is one of Piedmont’s most historic and respected estates, founded in 1881 in Alba. The 2021 Barbaresco is sourced primarily from vineyards in Treiso, with additional fruit from classic Barbaresco sites. Fermented and aged for 30 months in large Slavonian oak casks and neutral barriques, the wine captures the elegance, structure, and aromatic complexity that define great Nebbiolo. Medium-bodied yet powerful, it balances immediate drinkability with long-term aging potential.

Cellaring

Approachable now with decanting; best from 2028 through 2040+.

Food Pairing

Classic with braised beef, lamb, wild boar, truffle risotto, and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. Decant at least 1 hour before serving.

Product Details

• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Varietal: Nebbiolo 100%
• Aging: 30 months in large oak casks & neutral barriques
• Vintage: 2021
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Pio Cesare

A Champagne of extraordinary purity and precision — the Leclerc Briant Millésime 2019 is a 100% Grand Cru cuvée from one of the most celebrated biodynamic houses in Champagne. Sourced exclusively from three of the appellation's most revered villages, it delivers the intensity and complexity of a great vintage with the freshness and mineral tension that define Leclerc Briant's singular style.

Critical Acclaim

• 96 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "Intense, precise notes of fresh pear, bright crushed stones, delicate flinty reduction, Meyer lemon, and fresh lemongrass."
• 95 Points — James Suckling: "A Vintage Champagne of remarkable balance."

Vineyard & Assemblage

• 100% Grand Cru provenance — among the rarest designations in Champagne
• Pinot Noir (50%) from Grand Cru villages of Verzy and Mailly-Champagne
• Chardonnay (50%) from the legendary Le Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru
• Produced by Leclerc Briant, one of Champagne's leading biodynamic estates
• Extra Brut dosage — minimal intervention, maximum terroir expression

The 2019 Vintage

2019 is widely regarded as one of Champagne's finest recent vintages — a warm, dry growing season that produced grapes of exceptional ripeness and concentration, balanced by the region's natural chalk-driven acidity. The result is a vintage of remarkable depth and longevity, with the structure to age gracefully for a decade or more.

Tasting Profile

Bright yellow-straw with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is intense and precise — fresh pear, Meyer lemon, lemongrass, crushed stones, and a signature flinty, mineral reduction that speaks directly to the chalk terroir of Le Mesnil. On the palate it's focused and elegant with vibrant acidity, creamy mousse, and a long, mineral-driven finish of extraordinary precision. A Champagne that rewards both immediate enjoyment and extended cellaring.

Perfect Pairings

Serve at 46–50°F with oysters, sea urchin, Dover sole, lobster, seared scallops, or aged Comté. Equally compelling as a standalone prestige aperitif. A Champagne for moments that deserve the very best.

Domaine de la Solitude Pessac-Leognan Rouge 2022 · Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France

History

The Wine Estate “Domaine de la Solitude” in the 17th century, Hélène Barberini, a descendant of the illustrious Tuscan family of the same name, married Claude Martin, owner of a vineyard in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Their grandson would give a huge boost to “La Solitude” by creating the first label for the Appellation. Thus, “le Vin de la Solitude” became a symbol of quality and began to be exported, allowing a great terroir to come into its own.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

James Suckling, 93 Points — Very perfumed, bright and crunchy. Rose petals, lemons and other citrus fruits. Medium body with citrus and raspberry flavors. Linear and long with lovely energy and vivacity. Drinkable now, but better in a couple of years.

Decanter, 93 Points — Deep and highly aromatic on the nose - freshly picked red berries with dried herbs and a touch of liquorice. Supple and forward, this has nice energy and bounce. Creamy, super juicy and with a cooling mineral bite that comes across as slightly spiced with graphite and pencil lead accents and a slight chalky powderiness on the tongue. Really lovely frame and focus. Great to drink now, has plenty of punch but with lovely finesse too. Easy to enjoy this.

Vinous Media, 92 Points — The 2022 Domaine de la Solitude is soft, open-knit and very appealing. Crushed flowers, bright red-toned fruit, orange peel and cinnamon build effortlessly in the glass.

Memo Summary Notes

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Pair with

Meats: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, roasted duck, or a classic beef tenderloin.

Savory: Mushroom-heavy dishes or a rich truffle risotto (which echoes the wine's earthy notes).

Cheese: Mature hard cheeses like Mimolette or Manchego.

Details

• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Region: Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France
• Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
• Type: Red

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2014

The Wine Spectator 95+ | The Château Suduiraut 2014 may well be one of the best Sauternes of the vintage. This year, it is a blend of 95% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Blanc with a healthy 145 grams per liter residual sugar and 4.5 grams per liter total acidity. It needed some coaxing on the nose so I afforded the sample five minutes of rigorous swirling. It was worth the effort as it reveals intense clear honey and mineral scents that possess exquisite definition, one of those aromatics that stop you in your tracks. The palate is clean and fresh with vibrant acidity, great depth and power as it fans out in glorious fashion on the bravura finish. The phrase “It will knock your socks off” comes to mind, so wear a couple of pairs.

The Wine Enthusiast 96 Points | Intense and ripe, this is a superb wine from a top Sauternes estate. It has all the expected elements, including concentrated botrytis and honeyed flavors. Seville orange and lemon notes provide contrast, as does its acidity, which is just as intense as the honey character. It will age well, so drink from 2025.

Decanter 94 Points | Marmalade botrytis and smoke mix with ripe peach and honeyed pineapple. Complex and rich, with mouthcoating flavours of ripe peach, mango, honeycomb and tapioca. A rare unctuous quality for Suduiraut in 2014.

James Suckling 94 Points | Candied citrus and pineapple drizzled with acacia honey is how this smells and tastes, and the wine is rich and creamy with excellent concentration. Powerful and flavorful finish. Drink or hold. 

The Wine Advocate 93 Points | Despite a challenging year, half of the crop was lost due to an invasion of Drosophila suzukii, the 2014 Suduiraut is showing very well today, evoking aromas of pineapple, baked white fruits, ripe orchard fruits, lemon and spices. Moderately weighted, layered and round, it’s perfectly balanced with an elegant, fresh mid-palate that is long and ethereal on the finish. This blend of 95% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Blanc.

Memo Summary Notes

The Chateau Suduiraut 2014 is a highly acclaimed Sauternes from a vintage often described as a "miracle" for the region. While many 2014 red Bordeaux are considered "good but not great," the late-season botrytis (noble rot) in Sauternes was exceptional, producing wines with intense concentration balanced by high acidity.

Classic: Foie gras or blue cheeses (Roquefort or Stilton).

Main: Roast chicken with morels or a spicy Thai curry (the sweetness handles heat beautifully).

Seafood: Lobster or scallops with a citrus-butter sauce.

Expert Reviews

Decanter Magazine by Simon Field MW writes 93 Points |  Made up, half and half, of base wine from the sunny 2018 harvest, and reserve wine from Rodolphe’s Perpetual Reserve which goes back to 1988, this is one of the most consistently excellent NV wines on the market. Its current iteration is especially impressive, floral, chalky, upstanding, and very complex; the palate sharing notes of dried apricot, plum and lemon pith with more developed intimations of sour honey and patisserie. An exemplary wine with real purity and precision on the finish. 

The Wine Spectator by Alison Napjus writes 91 Points | Sleek and mouthwatering, with a fine, satiny mousse and a fresh panoply of crunchy pear, grapefruit sorbet, pickled ginger and spring blossom notes. Bright and finely knit, with rich hints of toast and mineral echoing on the finish. Disgorged November 2019. Drink now through 2025.

Winemaker Descriptions

Discover the elegance and purity of Pierre Peters Cuvée de Réserve Blanc de Blancs, a non-vintage Champagne crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. This refined Champagne offers delicate aromas of citrus, white flowers, and brioche, with a crisp acidity and a long, elegant finish.

Memo Summary Notes

Produced by Rodolphe Péters, this wine is celebrated for its precision, chalky minerality, and the unique use of a "perpetual reserve" system that dates back to 1988.

Its high acidity and saline finish make it a perfect match for raw oysters, sushi, or creamy risotto.

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf | Ruppertsberg Riesling Trocken 2023 | Pfalz, Germany

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf is one of Germany's most storied biodynamic estates, farming the Pfalz with meticulous precision. Their Ruppertsberg Ortswein (village-level wine) is an open secret among Riesling lovers: sourced primarily from the estate's exclusively owned Gaisböhl Grosse Lage (Grand Cru) vineyard, it delivers Grand Cru-quality fruit at a village-level price. Certified biodynamic, vegan, and sealed with a screwcap for pristine freshness.

The 2023 vintage in the Pfalz produced wines of remarkable juiciness and precision. This bottling opens with a coolish, pure bouquet of star fruit, ripe citrus, and smoky mineral notes. The palate is mouth-filling yet elegant — creamy on entry, then salty minerality and electric acidity drive the finish long. Bone-dry, clean, and built to reward a few years of cellaring.

Tasting Notes - Vintage 2023 

James Suckling — 94 Points: What a stunning village wine. The mouth-filling juiciness (think star fruit and the ripest citrus) is backed up with ample power. Creamy front palate, then the salty minerality and animating acidity kick in and push the finish way out there. A cuvée based on the Gaisböhl GG site of Ruppertsberg. Drink or hold.

Wine Advocate — 92 Points: Opens with a remarkably coolish, pure and refined bouquet with bright, elegant fruit and smoky aromas. Lean and elegant on the palate yet with ripe and juicy fruit — a very fine, elegant-finishing Riesling whose savory grip and tension will be better integrated after a few years of bottle age.

Vinous — 90 Points: A lovely flicker of reduction on the nose leads to an immensely juicy, rounded palate. Lemon-fresh Reine Claude plums with a lovely undertow of yeast. Absolutely bone-dry and clean on the bright finish.

Technical Details

Variety: Riesling  |  Vineyard: Gaisböhl (Grosse Lage), Ruppertsberg  |  Region: Pfalz, Germany  |  Farming: Biodynamic  |  Closure: Screwcap  |  Size: 750ml

Schloss Lieser | Riesling Niederberg Helden Feinherb 2021 | Mosel, Germany

Thomas Haag's Niederberg Helden is one of the Mosel's most storied steep-slope sites — a south-facing amphitheater of blue Devonian slate just east of the village of Lieser. The slate imparts a signature mineral grip and cool-climate tension that defines this wine's character.

Feinherb is the winemaker's own style: poised between dry and semi-sweet, it is built for the table — the gentle residual sweetness cuts through spice, while the electric acidity stands up to rich, savory dishes.

The 2021 vintage was a cooler, more classic year in the Mosel, producing wines of exceptional energy and precision. This bottling delivers intense wild herb, crisp pear, and white peach on a sleek, compact frame, with a stony mineral undertow and impressive length. Drink now or cellar with confidence.

Tasting Notes - Vintage 2021

James Suckling — 94 Points: The intense wild herb character gives this sleek and compact 2021 Mosel a very striking personality. Lots of crisp pear and white peach fruit fill this picture out neatly. The impressive length suggests this has many years ahead of it. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Aleks Zecevic): Well tuned and flowing with grace, this wine delivers notes of understated passion fruit and kumquat. A stony undertow adds to the charm and complexity. Not a blockbuster — for those who value nuance and subtlety.

Technical Details

Variety: Riesling  |  Vineyard: Niederberg Helden  |  Region: Mosel, Germany  |  Soil: Blue Devonian Slate  |  Fermentation: Stainless Steel  |  Size: 750ml

Finca Valpiedra is one of Rioja's most distinctive single-estate wineries, situated on a meander of the Ebro River in the Cenicero area of Rioja Alta. The estate takes its name from the pebble stones and limestone that define its soils — valpiedra meaning "valley of stones" — and it is these soils that give the wines their signature freshness, minerality, and cool-climate precision.

The Finca Valpiedra Cantos de Valpiedra Rioja 2020 750ml is 100% Tempranillo sourced from a single vineyard on the Ebro riverbank, harvested in mid-September and fermented in stainless steel with a 16-day maceration before aging 12 months in French and American oak. Intense purple with violet glints, it opens with black fruit, ripe sloe, and minerality, layered with vanilla, spice, and tobacco from the barrel. On the palate it is oily, rich, and intense with great finesse — velvety, fruit-driven, and juicy, with a long, cool, mineral finish and the characteristic Valpiedra freshness. Drink now through 2030.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

• Vinous — 92 Points: "Aromas of sour cherry, sweet cherry and fresh plums over an herbal bed. Dry and taut with a granular, reactive texture. Pure in flavors — will settle and evolve with time."
• Wine Advocate — 91 Points: "Aromatic, fruit-driven and juicy. Velvety, clean and modern with a balanced and tasty palate, contained ripeness and good freshness. Develops an acute note of licorice with time."
• James Suckling — 91 Points: "Vibrant spiced cherries, red plums and stones. Succulent and firm, with fresh and fine-boned tannins and a juicy, exuberant finish. Very well made."

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Black fruit, ripe sloe, minerality, vanilla, spice, and tobacco
• Palate: Oily, rich, and velvety with cherry, licorice, and great finesse
• Finish: Long, cool, and mineral with characteristic Valpiedra freshness

Wine Details

• 100% Tempranillo — single vineyard, Ebro riverbank
• Rioja Alta DOCa, Cenicero, Spain
• 16-day maceration; aged 12 months in French & American oak
• Vintage: 2020 | Drink now–2030 | 750ml

Chateau Lagrange Saint-Julian 2022 · Bordeaux, France

Producer Description

Third Classified Growth of 1855, perfectly balanced, the Grand Vin of Château Lagrange reflects the ultimate harmony between the three grape varieties cultivated here, with a strong predominance of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and Petit Verdot. Vinified from the oldest vines of the estate, then aged for twenty-one months in half-new barrels, it shows the concentration and ageing potential of a great wine. Already powerful and brilliant in its youth, a slow and serene evolution will bring out a delicacy expressed by the precision of flavours.

Critical Acclaim -  Vintage 2022

Vinous (reviewed May 2023) — The 2022 Lagrange was picked between 8 and 30 September, it ages in 60% new oak for a planned 21 months. It has an almost clinical bouquet, with very well defined blackberry and blueberry fruit, graphite and crushed stone. Quite a gap in quality between this and the Fiefs de Lagrange this year. The palate is extremely pure with cashmere tannins, black cherry fruit infused by blood orange, lightly spiced, hints of white pepper toward a very concentrated, fine-boned finish. This will require several years in bottle, but it will be worth waiting for. A serious and very able Lagrange that should not be under-estimated. (NM)

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot | Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux / France
Vintage: 2019  |  Size: 750ml  |  Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel · 90+ Rated

Château Le Crock is one of Saint-Estèphe’s most distinguished estates, owned by the Cuvelier family — the same family behind the legendary Léoville-Poyferré in Saint-Julien. Spread across 32 hectares of deep gravel beds overlooking the Gironde Estuary, the vineyard benefits from the river’s natural thermal regulation and soils that express all the power and complexity of the Saint-Estèphe terroir. With an average vine age of 50 years — many planted before the Second World War — and organic farming trials introduced since 2015, this is an estate that takes the long view.

The 2019 is a powerful, classic Saint-Estèphe. Blackberries, currants, loamy soil, cigar wrapper, and a rush of scorched earth, licorice, and tobacco on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied on the palate, broad and fleshy, with an ample core of succulent dark fruit, ripe powdery tannins, and a long, complex finish with notes of cast iron, dark walnut, and bitter citrus. A wine built for the cellar — best from 2024 through 2035.

“Wafting from the glass with aromas of blackberries, currants, loamy soil and cigar wrapper, it’s medium to full-bodied, broad and fleshy, with an ample core of succulent fruit underpinned by ripe, powdery tannins.”
— Wine Advocate, 92 Points. (Vintage 2019). 

“Leads off with sweet bay leaf, tobacco and warm earth hints, which are quickly met by a core of steeped plum and black currant fruit. Shows subtle charcoal dusting and a note of cast iron that add fuel to the finish. Best from 2023 through 2035.”
— Wine Spectator, 92 Points. (Vintage 2019). 

“A powerful, burly Saint-Estèphe… rich, virile and packed, the 2019 is big, hearty wine that shows the savory personality of Saint-Estèphe. There is certainly a lot of wine here.”
— Vinous, 92 Points. (Vintage 2019). 

“Lots of blackcurrants and spices with some dried flowers follow through to a medium body with firm, silky tannins and a bitter-citrus and dark-walnut aftertaste. Needs time to soften.”
— James Suckling, 92 Points. (Vintage 2019). 

Pairs with: Roast lamb, duck confit, beef tenderloin, aged hard cheeses, or classic Bordelaise dishes.

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

Vinous 93 Points | The first of the two white wines, the 2024 Versante Nord is a blend of varieties sourced from six different vineyards at varying altitudes from the north side of the valley, which receives more sunlight during the day. This wine offers a wealth of power, with notes of salted pineapples, fresh sage, smoky earth, and saline. It’s bright with acidity, salinity, and a light wild side, though very well-managed. It had been bottled just three weeks earlier, so this tasting was a preview prior to its release. Drink over the coming 8-10 years.

Winemaker Description 

This wine offers a strikingly pure expression of Mt. Etna’s eastern slopes. Grown on volcanic soils at high elevation, this white blend is taut, mineral, and refreshingly saline, with notes of citrus zest, herbs, and crushed rock. A brilliant new bottling from one of Etna’s most exciting voices—available now on pre-sale in limited quantities.

Eric Guido also last year assigned 91 Points to this plot- and said as follows of the 2023 vintage - Crushed rocks, dried flowers, raw almonds and freshly sliced nectarines form a savory bouquet as the 2023 Carricante Versante Est opens in the glass. Nearly salty in character, it washes across the palate with ease, showing tart orchard fruits and hints of lemony custard. The 2023 finishes with medium length, leaving a pleasant chamomile air to linger.

Perrier-Jouët · Belle Epoque Brut Vintage 2016 · Champagne Gift Set · 750ml

Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 2016 combines vintage Champagne with a presentation made for gifting. The supplied listing describes a gift box containing one 750ml bottle and two signature flutes, ready for a special occasion or a shared celebration.

Character & Style

The supplied notes describe a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, with white blossom, pear, honeyed citrus, brioche, and almond. Tastings.com highlights a creamy yet racy palate, silky bubbles, and a long finish layered with citrus, fruit, and pastry notes.

Expert Review

Tastings.com · 96 Points
Clear yellow straw color. Minerally, complex aromas and flavors of toasted brioche, lemon curd, apricot tartine, and white raspberry with a creamy, racy, bubbly, dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a tingling, complex, long finish that shows notes of grilled pineapple, toasted almond, orange scone, and heirloom pear with well-integrated tannins and a suggestion of oak flavor. Opulent layers of brioche, lemon curd and pineapple give sumptuous decadence on a palate that is accented with electricity, silky bubbles and refreshing opulence.

Gift Presentation

Gift box with two signature flutes, as described in the supplied product information. A thoughtful option for an anniversary, milestone, or celebratory dinner.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled. Enjoy as an aperitif or consider lobster, scallops, roast poultry, or a delicate mushroom dish.

Wine & Set Details

• Producer: Perrier-Jouët
• Cuvée: Belle Epoque
• Vintage: 2016
• Style: Brut Champagne
• Origin: Champagne, France
• Grapes listed: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Presentation listed: Gift box with two signature flutes
• Supplied rating: Tastings.com, 96 points

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

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Under screw cap, the De Wetshof Estate 2024 Robertson Limestone Hill Chardonnay offers a simple delivery of citrus, pomelo and wild sage. The wine focuses on brightness and is extremely drinkable, but perhaps it's a little less complex compared to all the other very different Chardonnays in this portfolio. You get a pretty note of latex or natural rubber, which I really like. This wine is unoaked, and that's what sets it apart.

Domaine Georges Lignier Chambolle-Musigny — Burgundy 2022

Domaine Georges Lignier’s Chambolle-Musigny is one of the quiet gems of the Côte de Nuits — and the 2022 vintage may be its finest expression yet. Sourced from a prime 0.71-hectare parcel of 70-year-old vines straddling the “Les Drazey” and “Les Bussières” vineyards, just below the Premier Cru “Les Sentiers” and adjacent to the Bonnes Mares grand cru, this is village Burgundy that performs well above its appellation. Matured in small oak barrels — none new — to preserve the purity and transparency of the Pinot Noir. James Suckling awarded it 93 points, calling it “a very charming Chambolle-Musigny village wine with a lot of floral finesse.”

The nose is classically Chambolle: red flowers, ripe cherry, wild raspberry, and a whisper of forest floor. On the palate, it is sweet and silky — warm, powdery tannins deftly supporting a long, polished finish with remarkable depth for a village-level wine. The ancient vines and ideal location produce a complexity that elevates this far beyond what one would expect from a Villages bottling.

James Suckling 93 — “Sweet and silky, this is a very charming Chambolle-Musigny village wine with a lot of floral finesse, the warm, powdery tannins deftly supporting the long, polished finish.”

• Producer: Domaine Georges Lignier, Morey-Saint-Denis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chambolle-Musigny AOC
• Vineyards: Les Drazey & Les Bussières — 0.71ha, 70-year-old vines, red soil
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vinification: Aged in small oak barrels, no new oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red flowers, cherry, wild raspberry, forest floor, silky tannins, long polished finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–12 years
• Best Paired With: Roast duck, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, aged Comté, rabbit in mustard sauce

Silky, floral, and unmistakably Chambolle — Domaine Georges Lignier’s village bottling is the benchmark for what old-vine Burgundy can deliver at this level.

Siblings António and Joana Maçanita founded Maçanita Vinhos in the Douro Valley in 2011 with a clear mission: to make wines that express the region's terroir, freshness, and indigenous grape varieties with honesty and precision. Their Branco has become one of the most celebrated white wines from the Douro — a mountain wine sourced from two high-altitude vineyards at 520–700 meters above sea level in Baixo Corgo, the more Atlantic-influenced western zone of the appellation, where slate soils and cool temperatures preserve the natural acidity and aromatic intensity that define this style.

The Maçanita Branco Douro 2023 750ml is a blend of 70% Viosinho, 20% Arinto, and 10% Gouveio, fermented in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts and aged on the lees for six months. Bright and vivid on the nose with dried lemon peel, blanched almonds, aromatic herbs, and hints of white peach, it is medium-bodied with zesty acidity, a crunchy and succulent palate, and a flavorful, persistent, mineral finish. Pure, fresh, and beautifully balanced — a benchmark for Douro white wine.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 93 Points: "Bright, vivid and agile. Dried lemon peel, blanched almonds, aromatic herbs and hints of white peaches. Medium-bodied with zesty acidity. Crunchy and succulent, with a flavorful, persistent and minerally finish."
• Wine Advocate — 91 Points: "A mountain wine from high-altitude vineyards at 520–700m in Baixo Corgo. Still very young, fruit-driven, floral and clean, with a medium-bodied palate, tender texture and a dry finish."

Wine Details

• 70% Viosinho, 20% Arinto, 10% Gouveio
• Douro DOC, Baixo Corgo, Portugal — 520–700m altitude, slate soils
• Fermented in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts; 6 months on lees
• Vintage: 2023 | 750ml
• Pairs with: seafood, grilled fish, light pasta, fresh cheeses