90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

Expert Reviews- Vintage 2013 

Josh Raynolds of Vinous writes 96 Points |  (made with 50 percent whole clusters) Bright purple. A complex, intensely perfumed bouquet of fresh black and blue fruit, candied licorice and Asian spice scents develops a sexy floral note as the wine opens up. Vibrant and appealingly sweet on the palate, offering intense, smoke-tinged black currant, boysenberry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors energized by a refreshing snap of juicy acidity. Blends richness and vivacity with a deft hand and finishes extremely long and gently tannic, leaving a sappy blue fruit note behind. Drinking 2023 - 2032.

James Suckling writes 97 Points | The most brooding nose of the trio of La La's with dark coal smoky aromas and dark stones, graphite and cocoa powder. Fruits are in the very dark plum and blackberry spectrum but flavors are held in a more savory mode with assertive, powerful clean-cut tannins that hold endless length. Truly a masterpiece. Best from 2022 and for two decades or more.

Joe Czerwinski of The Wine Advocate writes 94 Points | The 2013 Cote Rotie La Mouline shows none of the vintage’s sometimes dry tannins. It offers crisp black fruit—plums and blackberries—underscored by hints of pencil shavings, espresso and grilled meat. Suave and long, it should drink well for a couple of decades. Drinking 2020 - 2035. 

James Molesworth of the Wine Spectator writes 96 Points | Very ripe, with layers of fig, boysenberry and plum compote forming the core, inlaid liberally with licorice snap, roasted apple wood and Turkish coffee notes. Shows lots of heft, but everything pulls together on the finish, exhibiting drive and definition. Best from 2020 through 2040. 65 cases imported.

Jeb Dunnuck writes 94+ Points | One of the more restrained and fresh vintages of this cuvée out there, the 2013 Côte Rôtie La Mouline still has a classic Mouline floral, gamey, and spicy bouquet to go with medium to full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. With good concentration, notable complexity, sweet tannin, and plenty of length, it needs 3-4 years of bottle age and will keep for 15+. Drinking 2022 - 2037.

Richard Hemming MW of Jancis Robinson writes 18/20 Points | Hickory smoke, violets, tobacco, black-cherry fruit, pepper and a touch of stemmy herbal character. Super-fine tannins, and quite light body with a finish that isn't as expansive as the palate. Still young, so the length may well develop. Drinking 2019 - 2033 

Tenuta Guado al Tasso is one of the crown jewels of the Antinori portfolio — a 320-hectare estate in the prestigious Bolgheri DOC on the Tuscan coast, set within the distinctive "Bolgheri Amphitheater" of rolling hills and cooled by constant sea breezes from the Tyrrhenian coast. Cont'Ugo is the estate's singular statement on Merlot: a wine produced entirely from this variety as a new interpretation of the Bolgheri territory, sourced from vineyards at 45–60 meters elevation on clay-loam alluvial soils that deliver deep, complex notes while preserving the fragrance and freshness that Merlot does best.

The Antinori Guado al Tasso Cont'Ugo Bolgheri Rosso 2023 750ml is 100% Merlot, sourced from vineyards across the northern, central, and southern zones of the Bolgheri appellation. Deep, inky red in the glass, it opens with an aromatic and inviting bouquet of crushed lavender, plum compote, blackberry, sweet earth, mint, and fresh herbs. On the palate it is full-bodied, supple, and rounded, with velvety tannins, a balanced core of acidity, and pristine, clean fruit that carries seamlessly from entry through the finish. Polished, expressive, and built to drink beautifully from 2026 through 2035.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• Wine Enthusiast — 94 Points: "Peppery and earthy with tart blackberries over damp soil and graphite. Layers of sweet dark berries and dark chocolate create a sleek, acrobatic wine."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 93 Points: "Aromatic and inviting with crushed lavender, plum compote, blackberry, sweet earth, mint, and fresh herbs. Full-bodied, supple, and rounded with velvety tannins. Polished and expressive with good depth and length."
• Wine Spectator — 93 Points: "Rich, inviting and harmonious with black cherry, blackberry, plum, vanilla, toast and earth. Vibrant with dense tannins and an expansive finish. Best from 2026 through 2035."
• Wine Advocate — 92 Points: "Soft, fleshy texture with black cherry and blackberry. Pristine and clean fruit sustaining the wine seamlessly from entry through the finish."

Wine Details

• 100% Merlot — Cont'Ugo single-variety expression
• Bolgheri DOC, Tuscany, Italy — clay-loam alluvial soils, 45–60m elevation
• Tenuta Guado al Tasso, Marchesi Antinori
• Vintage: 2023 | Drink 2026–2035 | 750ml

Expert Review

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2017

The top Cabernet is the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear Ranch, which comes all from the Howell Mountain AVA. It's another inky colored beauty boasting a terrific perfume of black and blue fruits, ground herbs, spice box, graphite, and forest floor. With brilliant minerality on the palate as well as full-bodied richness and an expansive, opulent texture, it has sweet tannins and is approachable today, yet will benefit from short-term cellaring and cruise for 25-30 years. It's one of the few 2017s to come close to its 2016 counterpart. Bravo!  Drinking 2024 to 2054.  Jeb Dunnuck 97

Bottled only three weeks ago, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear Ranch is composed of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 1% Merlot, having spent 22 months in 60% new French oak. Very deep garnet-purple in color, it reveals beautiful notions of kirsch, red and black currant preserves, raspberry pie and warm plums with hints of red roses, stewed tea, underbrush and cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied, the palate has wonderful red fruit and floral intensity intermingled with black fruits, framed by firm, grainy tannins and a wicked backbone of freshness, finishing very long and mineral laced. Very different from the epic 2016 Dancing Bear, but very exciting!  Drinking 2020 to 2038.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 95+

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear ranch is a gorgeous Howell Mountain red. Succulent black cherry, plum, licorice, spice, new leather, rose petal and blood orange all run through this deep, resonant, unctuous Cabernet Sauvignon from Cakebread. This is a very pretty wine.  Drinking 2022 to 2032.  - Vinous 93

Winemaker Description

The 2019 Bernardot is dark and austere with wonderful nuances of ripe red fruit. Tannins are very silky and delicate in this 2019, showing a lot of finesse, typical from the Barbaresco area. It’s an elegant and very expressive Barbaresco. One of the favorite vineyards of winemaker Alessandro Ceretto.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate Monica Larner 95 Points writes | The organic Ceretto 2019 Barbaresco Bernadot shows a broader character and a more open-knit personality compared to the Asili. There is a lot of dark fruit, spice, truffle and earth to frame the medium-build of this elegant wine.  (2019).

Wine Spectator 94 Points | A bright red, delivering a core of cherry and raspberry fruit supported by earth, mineral and wild herbs. Intense, complex and dense, this is solidly built and persists with an aftertaste of dark fruit, mineral and spice. Best from 2025. (2019).

Bollinger Rosé Brut NV is a beautifully expressive Champagne that combines the House of Bollinger's signature richness and complexity with the elegance, freshness, and vibrant fruit character of a fine rosé. Crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir, this sophisticated non-vintage Champagne offers a harmonious balance of structure, finesse, and delicate red berry flavors.

Produced in the renowned Champagne region of France, Bollinger Rosé reflects the House's dedication to traditional winemaking and exceptional vineyard sourcing. Its distinctive character comes from the addition of carefully selected red wine from Pinot Noir vineyards, lending the Champagne its delicate salmon-pink hue, aromatic intensity, and refined structure.

The bouquet is expressive and inviting, opening with aromas of fresh strawberries, raspberries, red currants, and wild cherries. Delicate floral notes mingle with subtle hints of citrus zest, toasted brioche, and warm spice, creating a beautifully layered aromatic profile.

On the palate, Bollinger Rosé is lively, elegant, and wonderfully balanced. Juicy red berry flavors unfold alongside notes of ripe peach, citrus, and delicate pastry. The fine, creamy mousse adds a luxurious texture, while refreshing acidity and subtle minerality provide precision and lift. The finish is long and graceful, with lingering impressions of fresh berries, gentle spice, and toasted bread.

Equally delightful as an aperitif or paired with food, Bollinger Rosé complements smoked salmon, tuna tartare, lobster, roasted duck, grilled poultry, and berry-based desserts. Its combination of freshness, richness, and elegance makes it an outstanding Champagne for celebrations, romantic occasions, and refined dining.

Expert Ratings

94 Wine Spectator - August 11, 2025 "An enticing rosé Champagne, with a core of ripe and juicy raspberry, white peach and cherry, fragrant anise, cardamom and cumin, plus accents of slivered almond, candied ginger, blood orange peel and white blossoms. Mouthwatering and harmonious, with a fine, raw silk–like mousse and a long, long finish."

94 James Suckling - July 18, 2025 "Very attractive aromas of strawberry pie with the crust nicely crispy. Copper and iron too. Medium-bodied with real pinot noir character as well as salted butter, hints of barrel and a juicy finish. 64% barrel-fermented pinot noir (5% still red wine), 28% chardonnay and the rest pinot meunier. Rosé just keeps getting better."

93+ Jeb Dunnuck - December 20, 2024 "A medium salmon hue (only 5% red wine is added to the blend), the nose is beautiful and has a lovely touch of opulence in its notes of preserved Amarena cherries, ripe red fruit, toasted brioche, and fresh roses. The palate offers a luxurious feel, with power and elegance that suggest decadence, but it’s not sweet. It has a refined mousse, with a chalky and pithy, orange-tinged structure, wonderful length, and a good core that will easily age another 10 or more years."

Wine Details

• Producer: Champagne Bollinger

• Wine: Bollinger Rosé Brut NV

• Country: France

• Region: Champagne

• Appellation: Champagne AOC

• Grape Varieties: 62% Pinot Noir, 24% Chardonnay, 14% Pinot Meunier

• Style: Non-Vintage Brut Rosé Champagne

• Color: Rosé

• Vineyards: More than 85% Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards

• Production: Traditional-method Champagne with 5–6% still red Pinot Noir wine added

• Vinification: Approximately 30% of the base wine fermented in oak barrels

• Reserve Wines: Approximately 50% of the blend

• Aging: Approximately 30–36 months on the lees

• Dosage: 7–8 g/L

• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV

• Bottle Size: 750ml

• Serving Temperature: 46–50°F (8–10°C)

• Food Pairings: Lobster, grilled salmon, roasted poultry, duck, seafood, and berry desserts

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Pommard 1er Cru Les Grands Epenots 2023 is an exceptional Pinot Noir from one of the most highly regarded Premier Cru vineyards in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Renowned for its remarkable combination of power, elegance, and longevity, Les Grands Epenots is among the distinguished Pommard vineyards proposed for elevation to Grand Cru status.

The domaine cultivates a small 0.23-hectare parcel of approximately 25-year-old vines. The vineyard's clay-limestone soils contribute complexity, structure, and mineral character, while careful aging in French oak adds subtle refinement and depth.

The 2023 vintage reveals expressive aromas of ripe black cherries, raspberries, dark plums, violets, and delicate smoky oak, complemented by earthy nuances and subtle spice. On the palate, the wine is concentrated yet beautifully balanced, offering layers of red and dark berries, fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity, and a distinctive mineral backbone. The texture is elegant and harmonious, leading to a long, complex finish with lingering notes of fruit, spice, and savory earth.

Combining the powerful structure traditionally associated with Pommard and the finesse of an exceptional Premier Cru terroir, this wine offers excellent aging potential. A sophisticated and collectible Burgundy, it pairs beautifully with roasted duck, venison, lamb, beef tenderloin, wild mushrooms, and aged cheeses.

Recommended Drinking Window: 2029-2045.

Expert Review

95 Points Wine Spectator: This alluring red exudes pure cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavors, with a firm underlying structure.

Country: France

Region: Burgundy, Côte de Beaune

Appellation: Pommard Premier Cru, Les Grands Epenots

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

Wine Type: Dry Red Wine

Classification: Premier Cru

Vintage: 2023

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Pernand-Vergelesses Blanc 1er Cru Sous Frétille 2023 is an elegant and expressive white Burgundy produced from 100% Chardonnay in the prestigious Pernand-Vergelesses Premier Cru appellation of the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France.

Located high on the hillside overlooking the village of Pernand-Vergelesses, the Sous Frétille vineyard benefits from southern exposure and distinctive white marl and limestone soils. Although partially sheltered by the famous Hill of Corton, the vineyard receives generous afternoon sunshine, allowing the Chardonnay grapes to develop excellent ripeness while preserving freshness and mineral precision.

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle cultivates just 0.13 hectares in this exceptional Premier Cru vineyard, with vines averaging approximately 30 years of age. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, approximately 33% of which are new, adding subtle complexity without overwhelming its delicate fruit character.

The 2023 vintage displays a beautiful pale golden color and an expressive bouquet of fresh citrus, green apple, lemon zest, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and refined, offering crisp orchard fruit, subtle smoky nuances, and pronounced limestone minerality. Refreshing acidity provides excellent balance, while the elegant texture leads to a long, precise finish with lingering citrus and mineral notes.

Combining the richness of ripe Chardonnay with the freshness and tension characteristic of Pernand-Vergelesses, this Premier Cru offers a sophisticated expression of white Burgundy. Its elegance and versatility make it an excellent pairing with grilled fish, scallops, oysters, roasted poultry, quiche, and delicately prepared seafood dishes.

Professional Ratings:

92 Points - Wine Spectator

Ammura · Etna Rosso DOC · 2023

Tommasi Ammura Etna Rosso 2023 is an elegant Sicilian red that brings together Nerello Mascalese’s finesse and Mount Etna’s distinctive volcanic character. Produced by Ammura, part of Tommasi Family Estates, it balances vibrant red fruit with refreshing acidity, fine tannins and savory mineral complexity.

The vineyards lie on Mount Etna’s northeastern slopes near Linguaglossa, in the Alboretto and Chiuse del Signore districts, approximately 650 meters above sea level. Volcanic soils, cooling mountain breezes and pronounced day-to-night temperature variations encourage aromatic intensity and freshness. The vines average approximately 20 years of age, with select older vines contributing to the vineyard mix.

Winemaking

Crafted from 100% Nerello Mascalese, the wine begins with grapes carefully hand-harvested during October in small 15 kg baskets. Temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation includes approximately 12–15 days of maceration, followed by natural malolactic fermentation. Six months in stainless steel and another 12 months in large 20-hectoliter oak barrels develop structure and complexity while preserving vibrant fruit and volcanic character.

Tasting Notes

Bright ruby red with delicate garnet reflections, the 2023 vintage opens with ripe wild cherries, raspberries, pomegranate and red berries. Black pepper, Mediterranean herbs, sweet tobacco and smoky volcanic stone add savory detail, alongside subtle floral and earthy nuances.

The light- to medium-bodied palate is lively and balanced, layering fresh red cherry, wild strawberry, raspberry and savory spice. Fine, silky tannins and refreshing acidity create a graceful structure, while volcanic ash, crushed minerals and herbs lend depth. The long, precise, pleasantly savory finish captures Etna’s distinctive energy. Combining the elegance of Pinot Noir with structure and aromatic complexity often associated with Nebbiolo, this wine offers an expressive introduction to Sicily’s volcanic landscape.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling, 93 Points · Vintage Not Specified: A distinctive, smoky and savory Etna Rosso with aromas of volcanic ash, black pepper, strawberries and red cherries. Light-bodied and energetic, with firm, chalky tannins, crisp acidity and a vibrant, crunchy texture that reflects the wine's volcanic origins.

Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Aromas of sweet Bing cherries and raspberries mingle with savory notes of mocha and spearmint. The palate reveals ripe red berries, tart cherries, white pepper and a touch of salinity. Focused tannins and lively acidity provide excellent precision and balance.

Vinous, 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified: An elegant expression of Nerello Mascalese, combining vibrant red fruit, savory complexity and the distinctive mineral character of Mount Etna.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 60–64°F (16–18°C) with grilled lamb, roasted pork, braised rabbit, mushroom risotto, Pasta alla Norma, Sicilian caponata, fennel sausage or moderately aged cheeses. Its lively acidity and refined tannins suit Mediterranean cuisine and traditional Italian dishes. Suitable for medium-term aging under proper storage conditions.

Details

• Producer: Ammura, Tommasi Family Estates
• Wine: Ammura Etna Rosso
• Vintage: 2023
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Sicily (Sicilia)
• Appellation: Etna Rosso DOC
• Subregion: Mount Etna, northeastern slopes
• Grape: 100% Nerello Mascalese
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Light to medium
• Vineyard location: Linguaglossa, Alboretto and Chiuse del Signore districts
• Altitude: Approximately 650 meters above sea level
• Soil: Volcanic soils
• Vine age: Approximately 20 years, with select older vines
• Vine training: Spur cordon
• Harvest: Hand-harvested in 15 kg baskets during October
• Vinification: Temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation with 12–15 days of maceration, followed by natural malolactic fermentation
• Aging: Six months in stainless steel, followed by 12 months in 20-hectoliter oak barrels
• Alcohol: 13.5% ABV

Feudi di San Gregorio Falanghina del Sannio 2024 · Campania, Italy

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2024

James Suckling, 91 Points — Aromas of apples, precise fresh fruit and flowers. Light- to medium-bodied, it shows freshness with some silkiness and savory length. Full flavored for a falanghina.

Wine Enthusiast, 91 Points — The nose energizes with aromas of lemon, lime, white flowers and crushed rocks. The palate contrasts with a leading note of bitter almond skin, which pushes the citrus towards an orange peel feel, but a drizzle of honey provides balance and sets up a finish of orange blossom honey that unifies and creates a round, filling mouthfeel.

Producer

Feudi di San Gregorio is today the emblematic brand of the enological renaissance of southern Italy and of a drinking culture aimed at rediscovering the identity of Mediterranean flavors. Since 1986, its mission has been to enhance the native grape varieties of southern Italy such as Aglianico, from which Taurasi is produced, Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo, investing in the land and in the centuries-old tradition of Irpinia viticulture.

Climbing the hill towards Sorbo Serpico, you enter another world through a cube, among streams, the aromatic herb garden, the rose garden and the fruit trees. The greatest surprise awaits inside the winery, where production spaces and visual narratives of the soils and vineyards merge with works of design, architecture and contemporary art: a multifaceted cabinet de curiosités, and at the center of everything, the wines, offspring of millennia-old grape varieties and a living testament to the fusion of nature and human creativity.

Details

• Producer: Feudi di San Gregorio
• Country: Italy
• Region: Campania
• Grape: Falanghina
• Appellation: Falanghina del Sannio
• Vintage: 2024
• Size: 750ml

Château Fontenil · Fronsac · 2016

Merlot-led red wine | Bordeaux, France | 750ml

Producer & Terroir

Established in 1986, Château Fontenil is the home estate of Bordeaux oenologists Dany and Michel Rolland. After years of consulting for producers throughout the region, the couple acquired this Right Bank property in Fronsac.

The vineyards lie on a south-facing clay-and-limestone hillside overlooking the Isle River and Libourne. Planted predominantly to Merlot, they are sustainably farmed and harvested by hand, with carefully limited yields and vines averaging more than 45 years of age.

Tasting Notes

The 2016 offers ripe plum, black cherry and dark berries, with layers of tobacco, spice, cedar and gently toasted oak. Its rounded, supple palate balances generous fruit with freshness and silky tannins, leading to a savory finish.

For a dinner centered on roast lamb, duck or braised beef, this Fronsac brings the plush fruit and savory depth that make Merlot-led Bordeaux such a satisfying table companion.

67 Wine Buyer Review

Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer: “Comes on with aromas of warm, ripe plum fruit beginning to show some stewed character, followed by a hint of tobacco. The palate is juicy, with some wood and spice on the finish.”

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2016

Falstaff, 93 Points: The existing listing credits the 2016 vintage with 93 points, describing fresh, balanced dark berries, cherry, licorice, chocolate and well-integrated oak.

The existing listing also notes praise from Guide Hachette des Vins for black fruit, raspberry, pepper and integrated toast, with a rounded palate, silky tannins and a long finish.

Pairing & Serving

Suggested pairings include roast lamb, grilled steak, duck breast, braised beef, mushroom dishes and firm aged cheeses. Serve at approximately 60–65°F. A 30–60 minute decant is a useful starting point; taste as it opens and adjust to your preference.

Wine Details

• Producer: Château Fontenil, Dany and Michel Rolland
• Vintage: 2016
• Appellation: Fronsac
• Region: Bordeaux, France
• Style: Merlot-led red Bordeaux
• Soils: Clay and limestone
• Harvest: Hand harvested
• Size: 750ml

A supple Fronsac with ripe plum fruit, savory spice and a distinctly dinner-friendly character.

Dow’s · 10 Year Old Tawny Port · Douro, Portugal · 750ml

Dow’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port blends older wines for complexity with younger wines for fresh fruit and vibrancy. Long maturation in oak casks develops a reddish-amber color and a nutty character, expressed in Dow’s characteristically drier house style.

Character & Style

The winemaker describes a full, nutty bouquet, citrus and vanilla accents, and a soft, lingering finish. The supplied reviews add dried berries, caramel, hazelnut, fig, plum cake, and dried cherry. The 10-year designation is an average-age indication for the blend, not a vintage date.

Expert Reviews

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate · 92 Points · Attribution as Supplied
This is an interesting take on a 10-year-old tawny where it comes across more like a classic Late Bottled Vintage. Full-bodied, medium dry and tannic. Dried berries and a light caramel undertone.

Wine Spectator · 92 Points
Solid, with hazelnut, fig, plum cake and dried cherry notes in lockstep from start to finish. A streak of hazelnut husk tilts to the drier side of the tawny spectrum, resulting in mouthwatering cut on the finish.

Wine Enthusiast · 90 Points · Incomplete Supplied Excerpt
This is a rich, nutty wine, satisfyingly ripe, poised between sweet and dry. Its touch of spirit adds to the sweetness of the wine and balances with the acidity from wood a

The Wine Enthusiast excerpt supplied with the listing ends mid-sentence; no missing text has been reconstructed.

Winemaker Description

10 Years" indicates an average age – this Aged Tawny Port is a blend of older wines, which offer complexity and younger wines, which bring fresh fruit flavors and vibrancy. During their long maturing period in oak casks, Aged Tawnies undergo subtle color changes: the deep red hue which characterizes Port's youth gradually gives way to a paler reddish amber color. Dow's is known for its characteristically drier house style.

This 10 Year has a full, nutty bouquet with citrus and vanilla accents on the palate and a soft lingering finish.

House Background

The supplied history traces the business to Portuguese merchant Bruno da Silva’s move to London in 1798 and the Symington family’s involvement from 1912. It names Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira as Dow’s vineyards. Awards mentioned for the separate 2007 and 2011 Vintage Ports are not presented as ratings for this tawny.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Try slightly chilled in a small wine glass. Consider toasted nuts, almond desserts, caramel-based sweets, or aged cheese, or enjoy a small pour on its own after dinner.

Wine Details

• Producer: Dow’s
• Style: Aged Tawny Port
• Age designation: 10 years, an average age as described by the producer
• Origin: Douro, Portugal
• Maturation described: Oak casks
• House style: Characteristically drier
• Bottle size: 750ml

A treasure in the portfolio, La Perle is produced only in exceptional years, according to practices that have remained faithful to the Champagne tradition. Composed of a majority of Chardonnay, this wine captures the essence of the Champagne terroir, in the purest respect of the style of the House.

Expert Reviews

95 Wine Advocate: Disgorged in July 2021 with six grams per liter dosage, Ayala's 2013 Brut La Perle is showing brilliantly, offering up aromas of crisp white peach and other stone fruits mingled with hints of shortbread, beeswax and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, suave and seamless, it's elegantly vinous, with a textural attack that segues into an ample, vibrant mid-palate that's animated but not dominated by the vintage's tangy acids. This Chardonnay-dominant cuvée is a terrific success this year.

94 James Suckling: The softness and length to this is very precise, with a creamy texture. Bread dough, apple tart tatin and salted butter. Yet always subtle. Very long and alluring. 80% chardonnay Chouilly, Mesnil and Cramant. 20% pinot noir from Ay. 8 years on lees. 6 g/l dosage. Drink or hold.

The Eyrie Vineyards · Estate Pinot Gris · 2023

Oregon Pinot Gris with orchard-fruit depth, floral lift, and refreshing acidity. The 2023 Estate bottling brings together pear, peach, citrus blossom, and savory herbal notes in a medium-bodied wine with a rounded texture and a lively finish.

Producer & Place

The Eyrie Vineyards in the Dundee Hills carries forward the pioneering work of David Lett. His commitment to Pinot Gris helped shape a winegrowing tradition rooted in individuality and an attentive relationship with the vineyard.

Matt Kramer · The Wine Spectator / The Oregonian | “David Lett pioneered both Pinot noir and its white wine cousin, Pinot gris, the two grapes that define Oregon wine today. But just as important, he established the very tone of Oregon winegrowing: artisanal, individualistic, even idiosyncratic… You can look at Oregon’s 300-plus wineries and 17,400 acres of vines and trace it to Lett. But he left more than that. He bequeathed a uniquely Oregon ‘wine genome,’ one that others now seek to copy.”

Tasting & Winemaking

The Wine Advocate describes vines averaging about 29 years of age, tank fermentation, and 11 months of maturation sur lie. The resulting wine combines expressive peach and apricot flavors with a softly oily texture, fresh acidity, and a long floral finish. Vinous highlights orchard fruit, lemon oil, lime, and a touch of fresh mint.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck, 93 Points | The 2023 Pinot Gris Estate is expressive and pretty in the glass, with notes of tarragon, ripe pear, white peach, and citrus blossoms. It’s elegant and mouthwatering, with a salinity that's balanced by refreshing acidity and a medium-bodied feel. It has a lovely elegance and concentration that’s only going to flesh.

Source text appears incomplete; preserved as supplied in the existing listing.

James Suckling, 93 Points | Attractive floral, smoky, meaty aromas lead to a dry, juicy palate of crisp green apples, Anjou pears and smoked ham. It has a touch of grip in the texture from short skin contact before fermentation. It’s complex, well-balanced and different. From organically certified grapes.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 93 Points | The 2023 Estate Pinot Gris comes from vines averaging about 29 years in age. Tank-fermented and matured for 11 months sur lie, it has inviting aromas of peach, apricot, green herbs, honey and spice. The medium-bodied palate features expressive, honeyed flavors and a softly oily texture. It’s balanced by fresh acidity and has a long, floral finish.

Vinous, 92 Points | The 2023 Pinot Gris Estate is wildly fresh, with an airy bouquet of dusty dried flowers, cracked slate and lemon oil tempting the imagination. It is soothingly round and pure in style, with ripe orchard fruit swirling across a core of zesty acidity. Lime mingles with a tinge of sour green melon on the finish, punctuated by nuances of fresh mint.

Wine Spectator, 89 Points | Lush and fragrant, with precise flavors of pear, melon and spices that build richness on the finish. Drink now. 109 cases made.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Try with roast chicken, grilled fish, seared scallops, or a mushroom tart. Serve chilled, allowing a little time in the glass for the floral and orchard-fruit notes to open.

Wine Details

• Producer: The Eyrie Vineyards
• Wine: Estate Pinot Gris
• Vintage: 2023
• Region: Oregon, United States
• Grape: Pinot Gris
• Style: Dry white wine
• Fermentation: Tank-fermented, per Wine Advocate
• Maturation: 11 months sur lie, per Wine Advocate
• Size: 750ml

A characterful Oregon white for the table, combining generous fruit with savory detail and freshness.

Gary Farrell Pinot Noir · Sonoma Coast · 2023

Vibrant and silky, this Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir opens with cranberry, pomegranate and tart cherry, accented by mineral notes, clove and anise. Red and blue berries unfold across the palate, with brisk acidity and fine tannins carrying the wine into a lingering finish.

The winery's inaugural Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir draws fruit from Gap's Crown, Lancel Creek, Terra de Promissio and Durell. Cooling coastal winds and a long, cool 2023 season helped shape the fruit's concentration and freshness. Hand-harvested grapes were sorted and largely destemmed, with a small whole-cluster portion. After a five-day cold soak, the wine underwent extended maceration and aged ten months in French oak, 35% new.

Expert reviews

Wine Enthusiast, 91 Points · vintage not stated in existing review — Aromas of cranberry, raspberry and pine forest dominate the nose of this Pinot. The palate brings richly structured tannin and flavors of plum, orange peel, anise and black tea with a rich, opulent mouthfeel. This is great Pinot for burgers or ribs on the grill. - Tom R. Capo

Jeb Dunnuck, 91 Points · 2023 vintage — The 2023 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast pours a bright ruby red color and is lifted and bright on the nose with aromas of blood orange zest, cranberries, cinnamon, and brambly herbs. The palate is medium-bodied, with a floating feel, even tannins, and a gently tapering finish. It’s a savory and elegant wine to drink over the coming 6-7 years.

Wine Spectator, 91 Points · vintage not stated in existing review — Punchy and fresh, with delicious morello cherry and raspberry notes followed by hibiscus and rose petal details that give this lift on the finish.

From our team - David of 67wino.shop

“Produced at the winery’s ridgeline, at approximately 900 feet. The bottom of the label represents the ridgeline. The vineyard is approximately 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean. High winds have caused the grapes to develop thicker skins, resulting in a pronounced savory character.”

David of 67 Wine

At the table

Pair with grilled burgers, pork ribs, roasted duck or mushroom flatbread.

At a glance

• Producer: Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast, California
• Aging: 10 months in French oak, 35% new
• Alcohol: 13.6%
• Size: 750ml

A coastal Pinot Noir with savory detail and an introductory offer.

A beautifully expressive Sauvignon Blanc from one of Chavignol’s most historic vineyards, Gérard Boulay’s Clos de Beaujeu captures the depth, energy and mineral character that make this corner of Sancerre so distinctive.

The Boulay family’s winegrowing roots in Chavignol date back to 1380. Gérard has farmed organically since 1990, tending steep hillside vineyards with a meticulous, hands-on approach. His small Clos de Beaujeu parcel lies within the vineyard’s original medieval boundaries, where mature vines grow in rocky, limestone-rich soils scattered with fossils. These demanding slopes yield one of the domaine’s most structured and ageworthy wines.

The 2024 combines concentrated fruit with lively freshness. Citrus and orchard-fruit notes meet a pronounced stony minerality, while savory nuances add complexity. There is substance and texture on the palate, balanced by bright acidity and a long, focused finish—a compelling expression of Sauvignon Blanc with both immediate appeal and the structure to develop beautifully in the cellar.

Expert Rating

Vinous 92 Points: "excellent tension and chalkiness this is all about texture, structure and line... reveals an innate power, demonstrating precision and balance". 

Natural fermentation and aging in neutral wood reflect Boulay’s restrained approach in the cellar, allowing the vineyard’s character to lead. The result is a Sancerre of precision, depth and individuality.

Pair with seared scallops, roast fish, lobster or classic Loire Valley goat cheese. Give it time to open in the glass when young, or cellar it to discover the additional complexity that makes Boulay’s single-vineyard wines so rewarding.

Cigliuti · Langhe Nebbiolo · 2024

From the Cigliuti family’s vineyards in Serraboella and Bricco di Neive, this Langhe Nebbiolo brings the character of the family’s Piedmont holdings into a fresh, approachable bottle. Renato Cigliuti began prioritizing quality over quantity in the 1960s, when green harvesting was still unusual among his neighbors. His daughters Claudia and Silvia now run the winery, with Renato and Dina still involved.

The 2024 is bright and floral, with red fruit, a lively palate and fine tannins. Give it a little time in the glass to let its cherry and spice notes unfold. It makes a lovely companion to mushroom dishes, roast poultry or a simple plate of pasta.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

From younger vines in Serraboella and Bricco di Neive, the 2024 Langhe Nebbiolo pours a bright medium ruby and reflects the cooler nature of the vintage. Fermented in stainless steel and aged five months in stainless steel followed by five months in 2,500-liter Slavonian oak casks, it opens with pomegranate, fresh flowers, tangerine, and dried earth. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied, light on its feet, and refreshing without austerity, with fine tannins and a lifted floral tone that lingers through the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck · 91 points

The 2024 Langhe Nebbiolo is a fine entry-level offering from Cigliuti. Aromatic, vibrant and medium in body, the 2024 is super-classic in feel. Crushed rose petal, red-toned fruit, chalk and mint lend notable high-toned brightness. Youthful tannins extend the mid-palate and finish. This is essentially a mini-Barbaresco.

Vinous · 90 points

At a Glance

• Producer: Cigliuti
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Size: 750ml

Generous fruit and silky texture meet in this elegant Premier Cru red Burgundy. The 2023 vintage opens with expressive aromas of blackcurrant and licorice, followed by a full, rounded palate with notes of mocha. Supple tannins and lively freshness carry the wine into a long, graceful finish.

Made from 100% Pinot Noir, “En Chevret” comes from an east-facing vineyard just below “Les Caillerets,” near the border with Meursault. Vines averaging 25 years of age grow in clay-limestone soils, with grapes harvested by hand.

Traditional fermentation in open vats is followed by ten to twelve months in French oak barrels, 35% new, crafted at Louis Latour’s own cooperage. This careful aging complements the wine’s fruit and adds depth to its polished character.

Expert Rating

95 James Suckling: Spicy, lifted notes of black cherries, dried herbs, pencil shavings, potpourri and cola. Tightly wound with finely tuned tannins and energetic acidity, this has a textural, grippy and fruit-driven palate. There's so much to love here for early drinking with fine structure and a mineral finish. Drink or hold.

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Place: Volnay, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Volnay Premier Cru AOC
Vineyard: En Chevret
Style: Dry red wine, oak-aged
Aging: 10–12 months in French oak, 35% new
Serving temperature: 59–63°F (15–17°C)
Producer’s cellaring potential: 7–15 years

Richly expressive and beautifully rounded, this Premier Cru red Burgundy opens with aromas of wild strawberry, licorice, and forest floor. The 2022 vintage offers silky tannins and a generous palate, revealing cherry, fresh almond, and lingering licorice notes.

Made from 100% Pinot Noir, “Les Chaillots” comes from Aloxe-Corton, the historic home of the Latour family in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune. The vineyard’s name derives from “caillou,” meaning pebble, a reference to its stony soils of limestone, alluvial sand, and gravel.

Grapes are harvested by hand from vines averaging 35 years of age. Traditional fermentation in open vats is followed by ten to twelve months in French oak barrels, 35% new, crafted at Louis Latour’s own cooperage.

Expert Rating

94 points by James Suckling: Here’s the proof that Aloxe-Corton can produce well-structured and sophisticated wines. Only red fruit, but at the riper end of that spectrum, with just a hint of positive vegetal character. The healthy tannins build very nicely in the finish, and there’s a mineral freshness that gives this an extra dimension.

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

Place: Aloxe-Corton, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Aloxe-Corton Premier Cru AOC
Vineyard: Les Chaillots
Style: Dry red wine, oak-aged
Aging: 10–12 months in French oak, 35% new
Serving temperature: 59–63°F (15–17°C)
Producer’s cellaring potential: 10–15 years

Generous and elegant, this classic white Burgundy combines a full palate with bright citrus and mineral freshness. The 2023 vintage opens with aromas of lemon, honeysuckle, and delicate vanilla. Fresh almond and citrus flavors unfold across the palate, with a subtle vanilla accent leading into a refined mineral finish.

Made from 100% Chardonnay grown in Meursault’s marl-limestone soils, the wine comes from hand-harvested grapes on vines averaging 25 years of age. This celebrated village in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune is renowned for white wines that balance richness with finesse.

Barrel fermentation and full malolactic fermentation develop its rounded texture, followed by eight to ten months in French oak barrels, 15% new, from Louis Latour’s own cooperage.

A lovely choice for an elegant dinner, it pairs beautifully with grilled sea bass, shrimp and avocado, veal in a cream sauce, or Beaufort cheese.

Expert Rating

93 Points · James Suckling: “Refined and vibrant, combining richness and complexity with a lifted, saline edge. Aromas of ripe citrus, orchard fruit and white flowers mingle with hints of hazelnuts and crushed chalk. Medium- to full-bodied and gently creamy, it’s energized by bright acidity and a precise mineral thread. The finish is long, pure and harmonious.”

Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Place: Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Meursault AOC — Village
Style: Dry white wine, barrel-fermented and oak-aged
Aging: 8–10 months in French oak, 15% new
Serving temperature: 54–57°F (12–14°C)
Producer’s cellaring potential: 3–5 years

Richly textured and refined, this Premier Cru white Burgundy opens with inviting aromas of brioche and vanilla. The 2023 vintage offers a full, rounded palate layered with acacia honey and almond, finishing with an elegant mineral touch that brings definition to its generous character.

Made from 100% Chardonnay, “Sous le Puits” comes from a southeast-facing vineyard near the top of the Blagny hillside, just above “La Garenne.” Its name, meaning “Under the Well,” references a nearby spring. Vines averaging 35 years of age grow in clay-limestone soils, with grapes harvested by hand.

Fermentation takes place in oak barrels with full malolactic fermentation, followed by eight to ten months of aging in French oak, 50% new, from Louis Latour’s own cooperage. The result is a beautifully expressive Chardonnay with richness, depth, and finesse.

Expert Rating

95 Points · James Suckling: “Aromas of flint, grapefruit rind, orchard fruit, chalk and fresh herbs. The high-tension palate is precise with mineral-driven acidity and a textural, rounded mouthfeel. Perhaps the most linear and focused release of the 2023 premier cru whites.”

92 Points · Wine Spectator: “Plush yet dense, with peach, apple, vanilla and nutmeg aromas and flavors. Underlined by solid acidity, this just tails off a little on the finish. The oak spice notes linger.”

Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Place: Puligny-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru AOC
Vineyard: Sous le Puits
Style: Dry white wine, barrel-fermented and oak-aged
Aging: 8–10 months in French oak, 50% new
Serving temperature: 54–57°F (12–14°C)
Producer’s cellaring potential: 5–7 years 

Power, elegance, and exceptional pedigree come together in this Grand Cru Chardonnay from Burgundy’s celebrated Corton hillside. The 2023 vintage reveals a brilliant pale-yellow color and expressive aromas of toasted almond and vanilla. Generous and full-bodied, the palate unfolds with fresh almond and roasted coffee notes, leading to a long, richly layered finish. Sourced from southeast-facing vineyards with stony limestone soils, this wine reflects Louis Latour’s historic connection to Corton-Charlemagne, where the family is the appellation’s largest vineyard owner. Hand-picked grapes undergo barrel fermentation and full malolactic fermentation, followed by eight to ten months in 100% new French oak barrels crafted at the house’s own cooperage. Awarded 98 points by James Suckling, this distinguished white Burgundy offers the depth for special-occasion dining and a producer-estimated cellaring potential of 10–15 years. Serve alongside lobster, fine fish dishes, shellfish, or mature cheeses for a memorable pairing.

Expert Ratings

98 James Suckling: Fantastic depth and length to this wine, showing aromas and flavors of sliced apples, stone, flint,matchstick and white pepper. It's full-bodied and reserved, with very fine layers of bright fruit and minerals. Tight, structured and compact with a long finish. Already impressive, but best after 2027.

94 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: Latour's 2023 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru wafts from the glass with notes of pear, mandarin oil and peach mingled with notes of struck match and freshly baked bread. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and seamless, it's rich and textural, with a sweet, layered core of fruit and an expansive finish. Now bottled under Diam, it should age with grace.
Barrel Sample: 92-94

93 Wine Spectator: Opulent, creamy and expansive, this white fills the mouth, offering peach, apple, quinine and salty mineral flavors embraced by vanilla and toasty oak notes. There’s a tactile sensation, and this still lacks integration, yet all of the components are there, along with power and length.

Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Place: Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, Aloxe-Corton, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France.

Quinta do Noval · 10 Year Old Tawny Port · Douro, Portugal · NV

Quinta do Noval is one of the most storied names in Port, a single great vineyard in the heart of the Douro Valley where wines have been made since the early 18th century. Home to the legendary Nacional parcel, Noval draws on 200 hectares of terraced vines whose varied aspects, climates and soils give its wines a depth and complexity all their own.

Tasting Notes

Aged for years in oak, this 10 Year Tawny keeps more ruby color and fruit than many tawnies, the signature of the Noval style. Expect layers of fig, dried apricot, cherry and orange zest woven with toffee, honey, roasted nuts, chocolate and espresso, then a smooth, spicy, seamless finish. Chill it lightly as an aperitif, or serve it a touch warmer with dessert.

From the Producer

"Quinta do Noval is an historic name with iconic status in the world of wine. But it is above all a vineyard. In the heart of the Douro Valley, great wines have been made in this place since the early 18th century.

Known throughout the world for its Port wines, whether the Quinta do Noval Vintage Port made from a strict selection of the best wines from our 200 hectare vineyard, or the Quinta do Noval Nacional, extraordinary product of the tiny Nacional parcel at the heart of the property, or indeed our aged Tawny Ports and Colheitas, Quinta do Noval produces great wines that bear the stamp of their origin.

The subtle differences of aspect, climate and soil of the various parcels of this extensive vineyard give the wines of Noval complexity and depth that are unique to Quinta do Noval, whether we are making Port wines or unfortified red and white wines.

The team at Quinta do Noval is devoted to the task of looking after this great vineyard terroir. Every year we strive to make wines that are worthy to carry the Noval name and to take their place alongside all the great wines from the illustrious past of Quinta do Noval. We are very conscious of this glorious history, but we are also aware that today is a great time for Quinta do Noval, and that our vineyard is capable of producing wines that are among the greatest in the world."
— Christian Seely

Expert Reviews

92 Points — Jeb Dunnuck
"Quinta Do Noval's NV 10 Year Tawny offers up a semi-opaque ruby hue as well as a tons of cigar wrapper, chocolate, espresso, and candied black olive aromas, just to name a few. It's complex, medium to full-bodied, and rounded on the palate, with plenty of fruit as well as complexity. Aged in oak in a solera system for multiple years, this is in a sweet spot for me, with a solid mix of sweet fruit and some complex, spicy, tertiary nuances."

92 Points — James Suckling
"This smooth and sleek Port combines fresh fruit with good, mature nut, honey and fig flavors to be enjoyed before a meal if chilled and for dessert at a warmer temperature. Plenty of ruby in the color, with less amber than many tawnies, and accompanying fruitiness that is characteristic of Noval."

91 Points — Wine Spectator
"Concentrated flavors of dried pear, apricot, cherry and spice combine into this seamless package. The finish features toffee and orange zest notes, with hints of smoke."

90 Points — Wine Enthusiast
"This dry, balanced aged tawny is both fruity and showing good aging characters. Red fruits are cut with acidity and shaped by the old wood and spice flavors. It has a delicious, ripe aftertaste."

Pairings & Serving

• Crème brûlée, pecan pie, and nut- or caramel-based desserts
• Aged cheeses, especially blue cheese and aged Manchego
• Dark chocolate, dried fruit and roasted almonds
• Serve lightly chilled (55–60°F) as an aperitif, slightly warmer with dessert
• Keeps well for several weeks after opening

Specs

• Producer: Quinta do Noval
• Wine: 10 Year Old Tawny Port
• Vintage: Non-vintage
• Country: Portugal
• Region: Douro
• Appellation: Porto
• Grapes: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Sousão, Tinta Roriz
• Style: Fortified, aged Tawny Port
• Size: 750 ml

A benchmark 10 Year Tawny from one of the Douro's greatest estates, with four 90+ scores to prove it.

95 Points Decanter • 92 Points Vinous

A new chapter in the history of Marqués de Riscal, Barón de Chirel Rioja Blanco 2024 is the winery’s first white wine produced in Rioja. Also known as Viñas Centenarias, it draws its distinctive character from century-old vineyards in Rioja Alavesa, where white grape varieties grow among historic red-wine plantings.

Crafted from Viura, Garnacha Blanca, Malvasía and Maturana Blanca, this expressive white combines the concentration of old vines with freshness and finesse. Fermentation in French oak is followed by approximately eight months of lees aging, adding texture and complexity while preserving the wine’s vibrant character.

Floral aromas and stone-fruit notes meet a mineral edge. The palate is broad and persistent, with a rounded texture balanced by lively acidity and subtle oak influence. An elegant white Rioja with the depth to complement fine cuisine and the structure for further bottle development.

Expert Ratings

Decanter — 95 Points April 21, 2026 : "Fine and assertive, with remarkable poise and focus. Deft use of wood, building a toasty, almondy frame around the fleshy white peach and yellow apple core. Precise and fluid with a pleasantly tense acid line, assertive lemon zest and Conference pear crunch. A wine that delivers a lot without trying too hard. Beautiful, laidback modern classicism. Viura, Garnacha Blanca, Malvasía and Maturana Blanca bunches were pressed whole, without destemming or crushing, and the free-run must transferred to 600L French oak foudres, no more than 10% new, where spontaneous fermentation was followed by about eight months' maturation, with weekly lees stirring via rotation of the barrels."

95 James Suckling - July 28, 2026: "A vibrant and a creamy new white with sliced lemons, honeysuckle and honeycomb on the nose. Light phenolics. Medium-bodied with subtle depth and intensity. Fermented and aged seven month in 600-liter barrels. Viura and a touch of garnachia blanca."

Vinous — 92 Points: April 6, 2026 "The 2024 Blanco Baron de Chirel (Viura and other white varieties from Rioja Alavesa) was fermented in foudre and aged in barrel. Sourced from old vines, it opens with pear and field herbs, with evident oak shaping the profile. Broad and enveloping on the palate, chalky tension tightens the structure, leading to a flavorful finish marked by cream and caramel. Frank and distinctly Viura."

Food Pairing: Poultry, rice dishes, gently seasoned stews and Japanese cuisine.

Region: Rioja Alavesa, Rioja DOCa, Spain
Grapes: Viura, Garnacha Blanca, Malvasía and Maturana Blanca
Vineyards: Century-old plantings
Aging: Approximately eight months on the lees in French oak
Alcohol: 12.5%
Bottle Size: 750ml

94 Points Wine Spectator • 94 Points James Suckling

Named for the celebrated architect behind Hotel Marqués de Riscal, Frank Gehry Selection brings together the estate’s winemaking heritage and a spirit of creative ambition. Carefully selected fruit from estate vines more than 80 years old gives this distinctive Rioja remarkable depth and character.

The 2019 vintage underwent meticulous berry-by-berry sorting before aging for 26 months in French oak barrels. This exacting approach produces a wine that combines concentration and structure with freshness and polished tannins.

Deep cherry in color and almost opaque, it reveals layered aromas of ripe dark fruit, balsamic nuances and subtle minerality. The palate is rich and enveloping yet lively, with refined tannins and a persistent finish accented by toasted French oak. Its firm structure and bright acidity provide a foundation for further bottle development.

Professional Ratings

94 Points Wine Spectator - May 31, 2025 "Freshly brewed coffee, eucalyptus, black licorice and dried violet notes offer an enticing mesh of aromas on the nose of this rich, layered red. Shows concentration and subtle power in a sleek, well-knit form structured by finely sculpted tannins. There's a pure beam of black currant alongside flavors of fresh, loamy earth, dried mint, olive and dark chocolate."

James Suckling — 94 Points
94 Points James Suckling - July 28, 2025 "A creamy and polished wine with black currant, chocolate and coffee aromas. It's medium- to full-bodied with lovely fruit and tannins and a hint of dried fruit."

Food Pairing: Roast beef, grilled lamb, poultry, gently seasoned casseroles, cured ham and medium-aged cheeses.

Region: Rioja DOCa, Spain
Principal Grape: Tempranillo
Vine Age: More than 80 years
Aging: 26 months in French oak
Alcohol: 15%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Serving Temperature: 61–64°F (16–18°C)

95 Points Wine Enthusiast • 93 Points Vinous • 91 Points Wine Spectator

Originally created to celebrate the winery’s 150th anniversary, this distinguished Gran Reserva honors the winemaking traditions of Rioja Alavesa. Produced only in excellent vintages, it draws its character from old vineyard plots with vines more than 80 years old, delivering impressive concentration, complexity and elegance.

Crafted in the winery’s restored 1883 cellar, the 2017 vintage was aged for 32 months in French oak barrels, followed by a further three years in bottle. This extended maturation refines its substantial tannins, creating a wine that balances power with a polished, rounded texture.

Deep, dark cherry in color, it offers complex aromas of toasted oak, balsamic notes, black pepper and cinnamon. The palate is rich and structured, with generous depth and concentrated tannins that carry through to a long, silky finish. A distinctive Rioja for special dinners, thoughtful gifts and the cellar.

Professional Ratings

Wine Enthusiast — 95 Points
Deep garnet in color, this wine has a nose of black currant and caramel. Black cherry, cassis, mocha, butterscotch, violet and anisette flavors are wrapped in a sheath of opulent tannins that peel away to reveal a eucalyptus-infused finish.

Vinous — 93 Points
A Rioja with a Bordeaux influence, the 2017 Gran Reserva 150 Aniversario is a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from Rioja Alavesa and aged in oak barrels. Displaying a garnet color, the nose reveals herbs and oak with hints of pepper, blackberry and mocha. Dry, juicy and taut, the substantial, concentrated palate lingers with a black fruit core. This is a tasty red crafted with care in a crowd-pleasing style.

Wine Spectator — 91 Points
A skein of sweet tobacco, vanilla and red licorice winds through the baked cherry and black plum fruit, leather, dark chocolate and spice notes offered in this elegant red. Underlying tannins are supple and well-integrated, and the rich, lasting profile is brightened by a subtle tang of mandarin orange peel acidity. Drink now through 2030.

Additional Accolades: 99 Points Guía Vinos Gourmets 2024 • 98 Points Guía Vivir el Vino 2024 • 97 Points Guía Peñín 2024.

Food Pairing: Roast lamb, grilled beef, game casseroles, cured ham and mature cheeses.

Region: Rioja Alavesa, Rioja DOCa, Spain
Blend: 80% Tempranillo, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging: 32 months in French oak, followed by three years in bottle
Alcohol: 15%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Serving Temperature: 61–64°F (16–18°C)

The 2023 Roland Green Vineyard Pinot Noir is a distinctive single-vineyard expression from The Eyrie Vineyards, combining the elegance and freshness associated with the Dundee Hills with a darker, more fruit-forward personality. Brambly blackberry fruit, savory undertones and firm, textured tannins give this limited-production Pinot Noir both immediate appeal and excellent potential for further development in bottle.

Named in honor of Roland Green Lett, the vineyard was first planted in 1988 to Pommard and Wädenswil Pinot Noir clones. The site rises from approximately 540 to 720 feet elevation and enjoys a direct southern exposure. Eyrie describes Roland Green as a site capable of producing Pinot Noir with exceptional texture, depth and finesse. More recent plantings, including vines established in 2016, complement the mature blocks and add an especially bright, fresh fruit character to the wine.

Like Eyrie’s other estate vineyards, Roland Green is certified organic and farmed according to regenerative, no-till principles. The winery focuses on maintaining healthy soil ecosystems and naturally balanced vines rather than relying on intensive intervention. The elevated, south-facing site and volcanic Dundee Hills soils contribute both ripeness and structural definition to the finished wine.

Eyrie’s single-vineyard Pinot Noirs are deliberately handled with a restrained cellar approach so that differences in vineyard site remain clearly visible. Native yeast fermentation, small fermentation vessels and extended élevage are central to the program, emphasizing texture, freshness and the individual character of each vineyard rather than overt winemaking influence.

The 2023 Roland Green is particularly expressive and fruit-driven, with brambly blackberry taking center stage. Compared with some of Eyrie’s more reserved vineyard selections, this vintage is somewhat more forward and immediately generous, while retaining the structure and savory character associated with the site. Dusty, textured tannins frame the dark fruit and provide a firm finish that should become increasingly integrated with additional bottle age.

Expert Rating

95 Points — Paul Gregutt

Gregutt highlights the influence of Roland Green’s younger vines, noting their bright, fresh fruit character. He describes the 2023 as more fruit-forward than some of Eyrie’s other vineyard selections, centered on brambly blackberry fruit with textured, dusty tannins that should soften further with time in bottle. Only 193 cases were produced.

With its combination of ripe dark fruit, freshness, firm structure and Dundee Hills elegance, the 2023 Roland Green Vineyard offers a particularly compelling expression of Eyrie’s vineyard-focused approach to Pinot Noir.

Region: Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Vineyard: Roland Green Vineyard
Clones: Pommard & Wädenswil
Elevation: Approximately 540–720 feet
Exposure: South-facing
Farming: Certified Organic / Regenerative No-Till
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 193 Cases
Bottle Size: 750ml

Named for a longtime friend of the winery, Daphne Vineyard contains just 1.5 acres of Pinot Noir, planted to the Pommard clone beginning in 1974. The Pinot Noir vines sit approximately 820 to 860 feet above sea level, near the top of this dramatically elevated site. The vineyard’s soils are exceptionally shallow—averaging less than ten inches over large underlying boulders—which contributes to the wine’s distinctive intensity, mineral character and naturally limited yields.

Daphne is the highest of Eyrie’s estate Pinot Noir sites. Its elevation and exposed position bring cooler conditions and help preserve acidity, while the mature vines produce very small clusters of intensely flavored fruit. Eyrie farms its vineyards organically and employs regenerative, no-till practices intended to protect soil biology and allow each vineyard to express its individual character.

Eyrie’s restrained winemaking philosophy places vineyard character ahead of cellar technique. Native fermentation, gentle handling, minimal racking and extended élevage are used to preserve freshness, aromatic complexity and transparency of site. The approach produces wines that can be compelling when young while also developing beautifully over extended bottle age.

The 2023 Daphne Vineyard Pinot Noir is especially concentrated and expressive. Layers of raspberry, blueberry and marionberry are carried by lively acidity, while earthy and exotic savory notes bring additional complexity. Hints of mushroom, sassafras and sandalwood emerge as the wine opens, leading into a long, slowly unfolding finish.

Expert Rating

96 Points — Paul Gregutt

Gregutt describes the 2023 Daphne as showing terrific concentration, with raspberry, blueberry and marionberry fruit supported by energetic acidity and nuances of powdered mushroom, sassafras and sandalwood. He also emphasizes its lingering finish. Only 153 cases were produced, making this one of Eyrie’s most limited single-vineyard Pinot Noirs.

Powerful without sacrificing elegance, the 2023 Daphne Vineyard is a compelling expression of old-vine Dundee Hills Pinot Noir. Its combination of concentrated fruit, vibrant acidity, mineral depth and savory complexity makes it particularly suited to further development in the cellar.

Region: Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Vineyard: Daphne Vineyard
Clone: Pommard
Pinot Noir Plantings: Beginning in 1974
Pinot Noir Area: Approximately 1.5 Acres
Elevation: Approximately 820–860 Feet
Farming: Certified Organic / Regenerative No-Till
Alcohol: 13%
Production: 153 Cases
Bottle Size: 750ml

An exceptionally refined expression of Chardonnay, Billecart-Salmon Le Blanc de Blancs is crafted entirely from Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, one of Champagne’s most celebrated terroirs for Chardonnay.

The cuvée brings together fruit from the prestigious villages of Avize, Chouilly, Cramant and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, producing a Champagne of remarkable purity, precision and mineral intensity. Billecart-Salmon blends wines from two different years, allowing the House to capture both freshness and complexity while maintaining its signature elegant style.

Made from 100% Chardonnay, the wine is vinified in stainless-steel tanks to preserve its delicate fruit and mineral character. Between 20% and 50% reserve wines are incorporated into the blend, adding depth and complexity, while extended aging of approximately 4 to 5 years on the lees creates its refined texture and beautifully integrated mousse.

In the glass, Le Blanc de Blancs displays a luminous golden color with subtle green reflections and an exceptionally fine stream of bubbles. The mousse is delicate yet generous, giving the Champagne an elegant and polished appearance.

The bouquet is precise and mineral-driven, revealing aromas of white flowers, fresh butter and brioche, followed by bright citrus and subtle chalky notes. With time in the glass, the wine develops additional layers while retaining a remarkable sense of finesse and freshness.

On the palate, it is beautifully creamy yet vibrant. Flavors of fresh almond, lemon zest and citrus are carried by a distinctly chalky texture, reflecting the limestone-rich soils of the Côte des Blancs. A delicate meringue-like richness adds softness and depth, while the Champagne’s natural acidity keeps the palate fresh, energetic and beautifully balanced.

The finish is long, smooth and mineral, with a subtle saline note that adds precision and makes the wine particularly compelling at the table. Billecart-Salmon describes the cuvée as combining impressive vinosity with an unexpectedly fresh finish — a style that appeals especially to lovers of elegant, mineral-driven Champagne.

Vineyards

100% Grand Cru Côte des Blancs

Avize · Chouilly · Cramant · Le Mesnil-sur-Oger

Tasting Notes

Color: Luminous gold with delicate green reflections
Aromas: White flowers, brioche, fresh butter and mineral notes
Palate: Lemon zest, citrus, fresh almond, chalk and delicate meringue
Style: Creamy, precise, elegant and mineral-driven
Finish: Long, refined and saline

Winemaking

Vinification: Stainless steel
Reserve Wines: Approximately 20–50%
Lees Aging: Approximately 4–5 years
Recommended Cellaring: 8–10 years for a 750ml bottle
Serving Temperature: Approximately 50°F / 10°C
Bottle Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Oysters · Caviar · Scallops · Langoustines · Seafood carpaccio · Ceviche · Turbot · Sushi

Billecart-Salmon Le Blanc de Blancs is a beautifully precise Grand Cru Champagne, combining creamy Chardonnay richness with brilliant citrus freshness, chalky minerality and the effortless elegance for which the House is renowned.

Billecart-Salmon · Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon Brut Rosé 2013 · Champagne, France

Created as a tribute to Elisabeth Salmon, co-founder of Billecart-Salmon, this prestige rosé combines Pinot Noir’s depth with Chardonnay’s finesse. First created in 1988, the cuvée is represented here by the 2013 vintage in a 750ml bottle.

Character & Style

The supplied notes describe luminous salmon-pink color with copper reflections, berry fruit, floral perfume, blood orange, pastry, and a chalky finish. A delicate, silky texture balances concentration and freshness. The listed blend is 53% Pinot Noir and 47% Chardonnay, with a dosage of 4.4 g/L.

Expert Reviews

Vinous · 97 Points
The 2013 Brut Rosé Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon is much more exuberant than the 2012, even though on the surface, that does not exactly align with the respective vintages. The decision to use a bit more new oak, more still red wine and a touch higher dosage to soften the natural austerity of the year paid off handsomely. Rose petal, blood orange, spice and kirsch confer a decidedly exotic flair. The ample, substantial finish is striking. Dosage is 4.4 grams per liter. Disgorged: January 2024. (AG)

James Suckling · 96 Points
Very fragrant wildflower honey, citrus, sliced apple, nutmeg and pastry aromas. It's beautifully fresh and saline on the palate, with fantastic concentration, but in a delicate, silky way. Long, elegant and chalky finish. 53% pinot noir (Ay, Mareuil-sur-Ay (9%) and Bouzy) and 47% chardonnay (Cramant, Mesnil-sur-Oger and Oger). 4.4 g/L dosage. Disgorged January 2024. Drink now or hold. (CN)

Jeb Dunnuck · 96 Points
The 2013 Champagne Elizabeth Salmon Rosé pours a deeper copper/salmon color, but not too dark, with more orange undertones. It offers notes of smoky wet stone, pithy grapefruit, and licorice. It has a long, fruity feel on the palate, with verticality and a fluffy mousse. The focus and backbone of Chardonnay really play into it in this vintage, which I prefer. Drink over the coming 20 years. Made from 53% Pinot Noir from Aÿ (sélection massale) and Bouzy, with red wine from parcels in Mesnil-sur-Aÿ, and 47% Chardonnay from Oger, Cramant, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. It was 5% barrel vinified and 95% stainless steel.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate · 94+ Points
Disgorged in January 2024 with a dosage of 4.4 grams per liter, the 2013 Rosé Elisabeth Salmon emerges from this cool, late-ripening vintage as a rather giving, generous rendition. It unfurls in the glass with aromas of dried apricot, dark cherry and grapefruit mingled with a subtle hint of mocha. On the palate, it is full-bodied, ample and enveloping, offering a sweetly fruited core underpinned by tangy acidity, culminating in a precise, perfumed finish. This is a fleshy, though somewhat old-fashioned Champagne that, at present, does not quite attain the depth of Louis Salmon of the same vintage; however, it would not be surprising to see it improve considerably with additional time on cork following disgorgement. It is composed of an almost equal blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and was vinified almost entirely in stainless steel, with full malolactic fermentation. Rating: 94+

Winemaker Notes

A very luminous visual presence with soft salmony and slightly coppery glints of light. A very seductive blend of stunning brilliance draped in elegant effervescence. A sensual, refreshing expression of red and black berry fruits, sublimated by the floral elegance of peony and violet. An exquisite sensation of aromatic fullness rich in fully ripened fruits (blueberry and cherry pit). Beautifully refined and mature olfactory notes, opening on to the inimitable scent of fragrant roses and salty sea spray. A tactile, wholly delicate, impact of measured yet bewitching power. A harmonious flowering of moreish flavors and pastries (cherry clafoutis, Canada apples and blood orange jelly). A delicate mouth structure, progressing towards a finish on a hint of chalkiness and zest of Corsican clementines.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled in a white wine glass to explore the aromatic detail. Consider langoustines, lobster, salmon, fine poultry, or wild mushroom and truffle risotto.

Wine Details

• Producer: Billecart-Salmon
• Cuvée: Elisabeth Salmon
• Vintage: 2013
• Origin: Champagne, France
• Style: Brut Rosé
• Blend: 53% Pinot Noir, 47% Chardonnay
• Vineyards listed: Grand Cru and Premier Cru
• Chardonnay villages listed: Oger, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger
• Pinot Noir villages listed: Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Aÿ, Bouzy
• Oak vinification listed: 5%
• Lees aging listed: 115 months
• Dosage: 4.4 g/L
• Disgorgement cited in the reviews: January 2024
• Bottle size: 750ml

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Powerful · Mineral · Structured · Saline · Age-Worthy

A profound Grand Cru Chablis with remarkable concentration, old-vine depth and a long, mineral finish.

Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos 2022 is a serious and commanding expression of one of the most celebrated vineyards in Chablis. Les Clos is renowned for producing wines of exceptional structure, power and longevity, and William Fèvre’s 2022 captures that character with impressive purity and depth.

The domaine owns approximately 4.1 hectares within Les Clos, with its parcels situated toward the top of the hill. A significant portion of the vines are remarkably old, with roughly half planted by William Fèvre’s father in the 1940s and 1950s. These mature vines contribute extraordinary concentration, complexity and mineral intensity to the finished wine. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The 2022 vintage opens gradually in the glass, revealing aromas of ripe citrus rind, crisp orchard fruit and delicate white flowers, framed by a subtle touch of youthful reduction. The bouquet is restrained at first, but there is an unmistakable sense of purity and depth beneath the surface.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, dense and satiny, with layers of white fruit, lemon, green apple and mineral character. Vibrant acidity provides energy and lift, while a pronounced chalky and saline quality gives the wine remarkable definition.

There is tremendous concentration here, but also finesse. The wine carries both power and precision, building across the palate toward a long, stony finish marked by citrus, white peach and persistent salty minerality.

Among William Fèvre’s Grand Cru bottlings, Les Clos is one of the most structured and substantial. It is a wine built for the cellar, with the depth, acidity and mineral backbone to develop additional complexity over many years.

Food Pairing

Pair with lobster, langoustines, scallops, Dover sole, turbot and other rich seafood, as well as roast poultry, veal and refined dishes prepared with beurre blanc or delicate cream sauces.

Its combination of richness, acidity and mineral intensity also makes it an excellent partner for mature cheeses and more elaborate seafood preparations.

Serve lightly chilled to allow the wine’s texture, old-vine concentration and mineral complexity to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

98 Jasper Morris: Mostly from old vines, a good half planted between 1948 and 1952. Translucent lemon and lime colour. The bouquet is not ready to unfurl yet there is a sense of sublime purity about the nose. A wine in perfect harmony on its wide bench of white fruit. Just a little touch of spice behind, good acidity. Sign up for this! Barrel Sample: 95-98

96 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: The 2022 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos is a serious, structured wine, unwinding in the glass with aromas of ripe, waxy citrus rind, crisp orchard fruit and white flowers, framed by a deft touch of youthful reduction. Full-bodied, dense and satiny, it's layered, concentrated and multidimensional, with the most structure and substance of any wine in the range, but also the greatest need for patience to realize all its considerable potential. Rating:-96+

95 Decanter: Small yield, very concentrated, with masses of density on the palate. Plenty of drive and energy but has finesse to balance out the power. White peach fruit characters, vibrant acidity and a pronounced mineral, salty finish. Very long future ahead. Fèvre owns 4.1ha of the 25ha total within Les Clos. Its plots situated on the top of the hill, with 50% of the vines planted by William Fèvre's father in the 1940s and 1950s.

93 Vinous: The 2022 Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru has a surprisingly primal bouquet with gooseberry, melon, fruits de mer and citrus peel, with more oyster shell scents developing as it opens, though never quite achieving the flair of the Valmur. The palate is well-balanced, steely and strict, with fine intensity and a saline finish. But it doesn't quite have the precision of Fevre's best cuvées at the moment. Barrel Sample: 91-93

92 Wine Spectator: Greengage, apple, lemon and mineral flavors are aligned with a bright structure and chalky texture in this lively white. Dynamic and balanced, with a lingering aftertaste of stone and stone fruit.

The Style

Powerful, concentrated and deeply mineral — a monumental Grand Cru Chablis with remarkable old-vine depth, vibrant acidity and exceptional aging potential.

There's a precision to William Fèvre's Beauroy that announces itself immediately — white peach, citrus confit, subtle florals and that unmistakable Chablis minerality cutting through every sip. This is Premier Cru from the Troësmes sector of the left bank, where approximately 1.1 hectares of 60-year-old vines dig into clay-limestone soils that give the wine its characteristic tension and depth. The 2024 vintage is an unusually concentrated expression: rich and powerful on the palate, yet precise and fresh in the way only Fèvre's vineyard-focused approach achieves. The finish is bright, persistent, and beautifully defined — the kind that stays with you long after the glass is empty.

• Grape: Chardonnay
• Region: Chablis Premier Cru, Burgundy, France
• Climat: Beauroy (Troësmes sector)
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml
• Vines: ~60 years old, 1.1 hectares

Food Pairing

Oysters, scallops, lobster, grilled fish, roast poultry, veal, and aged goat cheese. Serve lightly chilled.

Professional Ratings - Vintage 2024

93 pts — Vinous: "Rich, dense and powerful… excellent concentration before concluding in a sappy, bright and firm finale. Unusually good example of the climat."

92 pts — Jasper Morris: "Fuller than many from this part of Chablis, without losing elegance. A citrus touch refreshes the finish which is persistent. Drink from 2027–2031."

90–93 pts — Burghound: "Outstanding! White peach and citrus, excellent concentration and a bright, firm finish."

Not Available for Immediate Delivery. Please allow 3-5 business days for fulfillment.

Chiseled · Mineral · Saline · Powerful · Precise

A profound Grand Cru Chablis combining extraordinary mineral intensity, vibrant citrus and a long, crystalline finish.

Among the most distinctive wines in the William Fèvre portfolio, Bougros Côte Bouguerots Grand Cru 2023 comes from a remarkable parcel at the lower, dramatically steep portion of the Bougros Grand Cru vineyard, close to the Serein River.

While classic Bougros is often known for its broad, generous and powerful character, Côte Bouguerots offers a very different expression. Cooler nights and the steep slope contribute remarkable freshness, tension and mineral definition, creating a Chablis of exceptional precision and energy.

The vineyard rises on an incline of approximately 40%, one of the steepest sections of the Chablis Grand Cru hillside. William Fèvre's Côte Bouguerots holding totals approximately 2.2 hectares, with the majority of the vines planted in 1979. The combination of mature vines, steep exposure and Chablis' celebrated Kimmeridgian soils gives this wine its extraordinary concentration and unmistakable mineral character.

The 2023 vintage opens with an expressive yet finely controlled bouquet of lemon zest, lime, white peach and pear, layered with delicate white flowers, oyster shell, chalk and subtle marine notes.

On the palate, it is concentrated and beautifully structured, showing remarkable purity and energy. Citrus and ripe stone fruit are framed by vivid acidity and a pronounced mineral backbone. Notes of crushed stone, chalk and sea spray run through the wine, leading to an exceptionally long, clean and saline finish.

There is impressive power beneath the surface, yet the wine remains elegant and finely chiseled. Its combination of concentration, freshness and mineral tension makes Côte Bouguerots one of the most compelling and age-worthy expressions in the William Fèvre range.

Food Pairing

A magnificent partner for oysters, lobster, langoustines, scallops and crab, as well as grilled or roasted fish. It is equally impressive with Dover sole, turbot, poultry, veal and refined dishes finished with butter or delicate cream sauces.

Serve lightly chilled rather than excessively cold to allow the wine's aromatic complexity, texture and minerality to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

95 Decanter Magazine: Initially a bit restrained, the fruit opens up on the palate with notes of white peach, nectarine and Mirabelle plums, accented with a salty minerality and a hint of spice. Chiselled and fine but still impressively powerful. Fèvre owns more than a third of Bougros; 2ha are located in this unique parcel that rises steeply from the river in south-southwest-facing slopes, producing this exotic, concentrated wine that will live for decades.

95 Jasper Morris: The usual lime tint to the pale colour. Wonderfully chiselled, not seeing the sunshine here, just the vineyard. A burst of concentrated fruit through the middle, a pure kimmeridgian streak of energy, breadth and depth together, powerful all the way through. Barrel sample: 93-95

95 James Suckling: Limey, mineral and chalky nose with lots of marine substances and some green citrus. Pure energy, with excellent texture, precision and agility. Long, limpid and saline finish.

95 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: Sourced from a site closer to the river, defined by a steep 40% gradient and cooler nights, the 2023 Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Côte Bouguerots is entirely different from the fleshy, muscular Bougros bottling. It offers aromas of lemon oil, oyster shell and white flowers. Medium- to full-bodied, it is taut and structured, with bright acidity, ample dry extract and a long finish. Stylistically, it recalls Les Preuses more than the usual Bougros archetype. Of the 2.2 hectares, 1.8 were planted in 1979.

92 Wine Spectator: his is generous, displaying peach, apple, lemon verbena and grapefruit flavors. Corralled by vivid acidity that emerges midpalate and defines the stone fruit and mineral finish. Approachable now for its fleshy appeal and harmony. Drink now through 2036.

The Style

Intense, crystalline and deeply mineral — a rare Grand Cru Chablis where power meets extraordinary precision, freshness and saline energy.

William Fèvre Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Côte Bouguerots 2023

Fabrice Gasnier is one of Chinon's most committed and expressive producers — a devoted practitioner of biodynamic viticulture whose wines are celebrated for their aromatic purity and terroir-driven precision. La Cravantine is his singular sparkling wine: a 100% Cabernet Franc Méthode Traditionnelle rosé from the Loire Valley, bone-dry, intensely fresh and finished with bubbles so fine and persistent they put many Champagnes to shame.

For the 2023 vintage, La Cravantine is released for the first time as a Millésime — a single-vintage bottling rather than the non-vintage blend of previous years. Fermented in bottle on its own residual sugar from the first alcoholic fermentation and aged for at least one year sur lattes, the wine is a pale rosé of remarkable delicacy and structure. Biodynamically farmed Cabernet Franc from Chinon delivers a wine that is simultaneously serious and utterly delicious.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate: "La Cravantine is a pale rosé colored Cabernet Franc sparkling wine with a very delicate mousse. Fermented on the bottle with its own residual sugar from the first alcohol fermentation and after at least one year sur lattes, the wine opens with an intense yet fine and elegant brioche and ripe apple bouquet. On the palate, this is an intense, round and textural, highly delicate fizz with a super elegant and refined mousse and a long, intense and aromatic, sustainably structured finish. A fabulous wine for aperitifs, breakfasts and desserts."

Tasting Notes

Pale rosé in the glass with an exceptionally fine, persistent mousse. The nose is elegant and inviting — brioche, ripe apple, strawberry and white peach, with a clean mineral undercurrent. The palate is bone-dry, round and textural, with a spicy, firm structure and a long, aromatic finish. Fresh, precise and wonderfully versatile.

Food Pairing

Perfect as an aperitif and equally at home with oysters, sushi, grilled fish, fried foods, soft cheeses and light desserts. One of the most food-friendly sparkling wines in the Loire.

Specifications

Grape Variety: Cabernet Franc (100%)
Country: France
Region: Loire Valley
Appellation: Chinon
Style: Sparkling Rosé / Méthode Traditionnelle
Dosage: Brut
Vintage: 2023 (first Millésime release)
Aging: Minimum 1 year sur lattes
Farming: Biodynamic / organic
ABV: ~12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Fabrice Gasnier

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia | Masseto 2017 | Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy

Masseto 2017 is a monument to Merlot — born from a single triangular plot of blue clay soils at the foot of the Tuscan hills, just a breath from the Tyrrhenian Sea. The 2017 vintage, warm and sun-drenched, yielded smaller, more concentrated berries that translate into a wine of extraordinary depth and presence. Fermented in a combination of steel and oak tanks, then aged 24 months in new French barriques and a further 12 months in bottle before release.

The color is near-opaque, a deep inky ruby-black. On the nose, rich layers of concentrated black cherry, blackcurrant, and plum are interlaced with lavender, spice, liquorice, and a whisper of macchia mediterranea. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, with densely knit tannins that carry the wine's considerable weight with remarkable grace. A vibrant thread of acidity runs through the finish, lending freshness and focus to what is ultimately a wine of immense power and elegance. Best from 2025 through 2045+.

"Strength with finesse."

• Grape: 100% Merlot
• Appellation: Bolgheri DOC, Tuscany
• Aging: 24 months new French oak barriques + 12 months bottle
• Alcohol: 15.5%
• Drinking Window: 2025–2045+

Critical Acclaim:

• James Suckling — 98 Points
• Decanter Magazine — 97 Points
• The Wine Advocate — 97 Points
• Jeb Dunnuck — 96 Points
• Wine Spectator — 95 Points

Only 120 cases imported to the United States

Domaine Graeme & Julie Bott Condrieu 2022 is an elegant and beautifully expressive Viognier from one of the Northern Rhône's most celebrated white wine appellations. Rich and aromatic yet remarkably fresh, it combines the lush fruit and floral character of Condrieu with the mineral precision and energy that define Graeme and Julie Bott's style.

The wine comes from approximately 25-year-old Viognier vines planted on the steep granite soils of Condrieu. These demanding hillside vineyards naturally produce small yields, helping to create a wine with concentration, depth and a strong sense of place.

Expert Reviews

93 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: The 2022 Condrieu from Graeme & Julie Bott is a lovely classic in the making, unfurling in the glass with aromas of spring blossoms, white fruits, flowers, apricots and honeysuckles mingled with delicate spicy notes. Bright and vibrant, it's medium to full-bodied, enrobing and precise with a sappy, charming mid-palate that segues into a sappy, delicately phenolic finish. Made from purchased grapes, fermented in barrels and matured for nine months in large barrels, this is a strong effort.

93 Wine Spectator: A floral, bright and expressive white, with elderflower and white peach flavors shored up with crushed flint minerality, fresh-cut chive notes and zippy acidity. Lacy in feel, showing terrific purity throughout and ending with a clean finish. Drink now through 2025. 375 cases made, 120 cases imported.

92 James Suckling: A fruity nose with fresh pears, green apples, fresh apricots, herbs and mild spices. It’s medium-bodied with a caressing texture. Well-balanced with a spicy and mineral edge. Precise with a succulent finish. Drink or hold.

91 Jeb Dunnuck: A clean, classy, medium-bodied effort from this estate, the 2022 Condrieu has textbook tart apricot and orange blossom-like fruit as well as some spicy, mineral nuances. I love its balance, and it has good acidity and a great finish. It's going to shine on the dinner table.

Winemaking

The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted in the vineyard before being whole-bunch pressed. After cold settling, fermentation takes place in barrel, followed by approximately 10 months of aging in French oak barrels before bottling. Production is extremely limited, at approximately 2,000 bottles.

Tasting Notes

Golden in color with pale yellow highlights, the 2022 Condrieu opens with expressive aromas of ripe peach, apricot and fresh yellow fruits accented by delicate white flowers and subtle violet notes. The palate is rich, concentrated and silky, yet beautifully balanced by freshness, mineral tension and a subtle saline character.

Despite its generous texture, the wine remains bright and energetic throughout, finishing long and precise with a delicate savory bitterness that brings definition and balance to the ripe Viognier fruit.

About Domaine Graeme & Julie Bott

Graeme and Julie Bott met while working at the renowned Northern Rhône domaine of Stéphane Ogier before establishing their own estate. Their vineyards are centered around the Northern Rhône, where they focus on expressive, pure wines that emphasize freshness and the distinctive character of their hillside terroirs.

Food Pairing

A beautiful match for rich and creamy dishes. Pair with vegetable risotto, roast or poached poultry with cream sauce, foie gras, or other dishes where the wine's generous texture can complement richness while its freshness keeps the pairing lively and balanced.

Wine Details

• Producer: Domaine Graeme & Julie Bott
• Vintage: 2022
• Country: France
• Region: Northern Rhône
• Appellation: Condrieu AOC
• Grape: 100% Viognier
• Soil: Granite
• Vine Age: Approximately 25 years
• Harvest: Hand harvested
• Vinification: Whole-bunch pressed; barrel fermented
• Aging: Approximately 10 months in French oak barrels
• Production: Approximately 2,000 bottles
• Bottle Size: 750ml