90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

Bollinger PN AYC21 is an exceptional Blanc de Noirs Champagne that celebrates the distinctive character of Pinot Noir and the remarkable diversity of Champagne's terroirs. Part of Bollinger's exclusive PN collection, this limited-production cuvée showcases the House's mastery of Pinot Noir, combining richness, precision, and freshness in a beautifully expressive Champagne.

The AYC21 edition highlights Pinot Noir from the celebrated village of Aÿ, one of Champagne's most prestigious Grand Cru terroirs. Built around the 2021 harvest, this release captures the elegance and mineral tension of Pinot Noir while maintaining Bollinger's signature depth and complexity.

The nose is inviting and beautifully layered, revealing delicate floral aromas intertwined with warm spices, ripe white cherry, white raspberry, and juicy white peach. Subtle notes of freshly baked biscuits, toasted almonds, and candied ginger add complexity and richness.

On the palate, the Champagne is vibrant, focused, and remarkably harmonious. Flavors of orchard fruits, delicate red berries, and citrus unfold across a finely textured, energetic mousse. Mouthwatering acidity provides freshness and tension, while elegant mineral notes enhance the wine's precision. The finish is long, bright, and beautifully persistent, leaving impressions of toasted nuts, subtle spice, and refreshing minerality.

Both sophisticated and versatile, Bollinger PN AYC21 is an outstanding choice for Champagne enthusiasts seeking a distinctive expression of Pinot Noir. Enjoy it as an elegant aperitif or pair it with fresh oysters, scallops, lobster, roasted poultry, or delicate mushroom dishes.

Professional Ratings & Reviews

95 Points — Wine Spectator

July 20, 2026 "With an enticing, floral- and spice-laced nose and finely meshed flavors of ripe white cherry, white raspberry, white peach fruit, biscuit, grilled almond and candied ginger, this is harmonious and appealing. A well-honed spine of mouthwatering acidity creates tension, while the flavor profile expands on the pointillism-like mousse. Bright, focused and mineral-driven, with a lasting finish."

Wine Details

• Producer: Champagne Bollinger

• Wine: PN AYC21 – 2026 Release

• Country: France

• Region: Champagne

• Appellation: Champagne AOC

• Principal Cru: Aÿ (Grand Cru)

• Additional Crus: Tauxières and Mutigny

• Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir

• Style: Blanc de Noirs Brut Champagne

• Base Vintage: 2021

• Blend: 51% from the 2021 harvest and 49% reserve wines

• Reserve Wines: Includes wines from 2012, 2013, and 2014, some preserved in magnums

• Vinification: Fermentation in stainless-steel vats and oak barrels

• Aging: More than twice the minimum required by the Champagne appellation

• Dosage: 8 g/L

• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV

• Bottle Size: 750ml

• Serving Temperature: 50–52°F (10–11°C)

• Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now or cellar for further development

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Volnay 1er Cru Taillepieds 2023 is an exceptional old-vine Pinot Noir from one of the most highly regarded Premier Cru vineyards in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Combining remarkable elegance, concentration, and mineral precision, this limited-production wine beautifully expresses the distinctive terroir of Volnay.

Situated high on the slopes just south of the village of Volnay, the Taillepieds vineyard benefits from excellent southeastern exposure and limestone-rich soils. Domaine Clos de la Chapelle cultivates a small 0.47-hectare parcel of vines averaging approximately 65 years of age. These mature vines produce naturally low yields, contributing concentration, complexity, and remarkable depth of flavor.

The 2023 vintage reveals expressive aromas of black cherries, ripe blackberries, dark plums, peonies, subtle cocoa, and warm spices, complemented by delicate notes of sandalwood, toasted oak, and earthy minerality. On the palate, the wine is rich and beautifully structured, offering layers of dark berry fruit, refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and a distinctive mineral backbone. Its generous texture is balanced by freshness and precision, leading to a long, complex finish with lingering notes of fruit, spice, and savory earth.

Aged in French oak barrels for approximately 12 to 18 months, the wine develops additional depth and complexity while preserving the purity of its Pinot Noir fruit.

This sophisticated Premier Cru Burgundy combines the finesse traditionally associated with Volnay with impressive concentration and aging potential. An excellent choice for collectors and lovers of fine Burgundy, it pairs beautifully with roasted duck, lamb, venison, beef tenderloin, wild mushrooms, and aged cheeses.

Recommended Drinking Window: 2029-2045.

Expert Ratings

95 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Apr 2026): This red is lush and mouthfilling, exhibiting dark fruit flavors of black cherry, blackberry, black currant, sandalwood, vanilla and toasty oak. There’s a hint of iron underneath, plus a thick base of tannins. Feels balanced, with refreshing acidity, but needs time. Best from 2029 through 2045.

95 points, John Gilman, View From The Cellar (Apr 2025): Domaine Clos de la Chapelle 2023 Volnay “Taillepieds” Vieilles Vignes is an utterly stunning young wine. I have always loved this terroir since my very earliest days drinking Burgundy and it seems pretty clear to me that today, no one makes a better example of Taillepieds than the team at Clos de la Chapelle! The wine is stunningly complex aromatically right out of the blocks, offering up scents of sweet dark berries, black plums, raw cocoa, gamebird, a gorgeously complex base of soil tones, a touch of brown spices, woodsmoke, peonies and cedary oak. On the palate the wine is pure, precise, full-bodied and sappy at the core, with great soil signature, ripe, buried tannins, good acids and a very, very long, very refined, complex and seamlessly balanced finish. A brilliant young wine!

90-93 points, Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy (Jan 2025): Not yet racked. Quite a deep ruby purple. The nose shows density but not detail – that will come more after racking. The fruit on the palate is a mix of strawberry, fresher than in some of the cuvees, raspberry and a first hint of blackberry. Tannins are present but in balance, acidity correct, with fair length. Drink from 2030-2038. Tasted Oct 2024.

Country: France

Region: Burgundy, Côte de Beaune

Appellation: Volnay Premier Cru, Taillepieds

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

Wine Type: Dry Red Wine

Classification: Premier Cru

Vintage: 2023

Alcohol: 13.5%

Thomas Goss · McLaren Vale · 2022

Thomas Goss McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 pairs expressive berry fruit with savory herbal character and fresh acidity. Cherry, blackcurrant and blackberry notes meet tobacco and a structured tannin profile in this Australian red.

The label pays tribute to Thomas and Mary Ann Goss and their family's contribution to South Australia's agricultural heritage. Winemaker Alexia Roberts produces the Thomas Goss range of affordable McLaren Vale reds and Adelaide Hills whites.

Producer Story

Welcome to Thomas Goss. Our wines are a tribute to one of the original pioneers of McLaren Vale, Thomas Goss (1810-1890), and his family. Thomas, along with his wife Mary Ann (1813-1891) and eight children, migrated to South Australia from Devonshire, England in 1849. After achieving success in the Victorian goldfields, Thomas took the opportunity to establish an iconic farming property in the heart of McLaren Vale called "Gedney". In 1855, he built a two-story homestead named "Ingleburne". Today, Ingleburne is a historical landmark and a testament to his pioneering spirit.

As caretakers of this historic estate, we take pride in sharing Thomas Goss' story through our wines. Our winemaking team has been crafting Thomas Goss wines in a range of classic McLaren Vale styles since 2013. Our wines are now available in over 13 countries worldwide.

Experience the rich heritage of McLaren Vale through our everyday wines and pay homage to the pioneers who paved the way for the region.

The Region

McLaren Vale's Mediterranean-style climate supports the production of premium wine grapes. Shiraz, Cabernet and Grenache are among its notable varieties.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points · Best Buy · Vintage Not Specified: Dusty pencil lead, tobacco and dried herbal characters mingle with supple cherry fruit on this ultra affordable McLaren Vale red. In true Cab Sauv fashion, it's chiseled with powerful, chalk dust tannins, but also offers lovely line of satiny red fruit and fresh acidity. Drink now with a salt-crusted porterhouse or grilled portobellos.

James Suckling, 90 Points · Vintage Not Specified: The nose is fruit-driven with vibrant aromas of wild blackberries, blackcurrants and mocha. The medium-bodied palate has soft tannins and focused acidity, giving notes of mulberry, tobacco leaves and dried herbs. Fresh and friendly with a nicely integrated structure. Drink or hold.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a salt-crusted porterhouse or grilled portobello mushrooms, as recommended by Wine Enthusiast. Its savory character also makes it a good candidate for herb-roasted lamb.

Details

• Producer: Thomas Goss
• Vintage: 2022
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: Australia
• Region: McLaren Vale
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Type: Red wine

Dalrymple Vineyards · Tasmania · 2022

Dalrymple Vineyards Tasmania Pinot Noir 2022 brings together carefully selected parcels from Pipers River, Coal River Valley and growers at Ouse. The result is a Pinot Noir whose complexity and nuance reflect the vineyards behind it.

Rose-petal fragrance, red berries and savory spice run through the reviews below, with fine tannins and a light, elegant shape. It is a natural choice for a dinner centered on delicate flavors rather than heavy sauces.

The Dalrymple Vineyards Story

Peter Caldwell, Vigneron: "Pinot Noir has always underpinned my enthusiasm for wine. It is the perfect example of what wine should be: mysterious, challenging, a complete reflection of its environment and the most satisfying when you get it right. Welcome to Dalrymple Vineyards."

Tasmania's rugged coastal beauty and cool climate terrain first ignited a passionate pursuit to craft the perfect single site wines back in 1987, well before the rest of the world caught on. Such inspired the founding of Dalrymple Vineyards on the sloping hills of Pipers River, overlooking Bass Strait. Since then, people around the world have fallen in love with the Tasmanian landscape, wild and breathtaking, and the finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that thrives here. From every patch of land comes the demand for meticulous attention that, when granted, awards exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines perfectly reflective of the pristine beauty of every single site.

Mother Nature calls the shots, and you can taste it.

Producer Description

Dalrymple Pinot Noir is a true reflection of our unique vineyards. Carefully selected parcels from Pipers River, Coal River Valley, and our growers at Ouse create complexity and nuance.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Australian Wine Companion, 92 Points · Vintage 2022: Accurate, pretty and enticing, there's impressive value here. The rose-petal lift of Pipers River is well married to the wild strawberries and red cherries of the Coal River Valley, singing to the tune of cool-season acid drive. An elegant touch of whole bunches serves to heighten its fragrant, spicy mood. Fine, silky tannins are alluring from day one, and promise short-term confidence.

Decanter, 90 Points · Vintage 2022: Pretty rose petal and tomato leaf nose, lush, velvet fruit and subtle tannins on the palate.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 90 Points · 2022 ·: The 2022 Pinot Noir leads with a bouquet of dried rose petals, red apple skins and cherry pips. The wine is light and shaped by savory tannins that introduce characters of sumac and nut

Pairing Suggestions

Try it with roast duck, grilled salmon or mushroom risotto to complement its red-fruit and savory character.

Details

• Producer: Dalrymple Vineyards
• Vintage: 2022
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: Australia
• Region: Tasmania
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Type: Red wine

Two Hands · Australia · 2022

Two Hands Angel's Share Shiraz 2022 brings together vivid berry fruit, spice and a silky texture. The reviews below highlight its concentration without heaviness and its velvety finish.

Producer Description

At Two Hands Wines, our belief that great wines are made in the vineyard guides every decision we make. From the meticulous care of our vines to the thoughtful crafting of each bottle, our commitment to excellence is unwavering. We strive to produce wines that reflect their origin, meaning that they show the characteristics that we associate with the regions and vineyard sites from where the fruit was sourced. Our wines are selected through a process of barrel classification – selecting the very best barrels for the Flagship range followed by the Single Vineyard Series, Garden Series and then our Picture Series.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 91+ Points: The 2022 Angel's Share Shiraz is saturated with black cherry, raspberry, licorice and pink peppercorn-rolled pastrami. In the mouth, it is all of this: silky and spicy and concentrated but not heavy. Nicely done.

Wine Spectator, 90 Points · Vintage 2022: Packs a laser beam of pure fruit flavors, including boysenberry, blackberry and blueberry at the core, while accents of dried rose petal, toasted cumin and fresh sage linger on the velvety finish. Drink now. 3,500 cases imported.

Pairing Suggestions

Try it with grilled steak, pepper-crusted lamb or roasted mushrooms to complement its fruit and savory spice.

Details

• Producer: Two Hands Wines
• Wine: Angel's Share
• Vintage: 2022
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: Australia
• Grape: Shiraz
• Type: Red wine

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Pommard 1er Cru Les Chanlins 2023 is an elegant and structured red Burgundy produced exclusively from Pinot Noir in the prestigious Pommard Premier Cru appellation of the Côte de Beaune. This limited-production wine reflects the distinctive character of Les Chanlins, a Premier Cru vineyard known for producing expressive, complex, and beautifully balanced wines.

Situated near the border of Pommard and Volnay, the Les Chanlins vineyard benefits from limestone-rich clay soils that contribute both structure and finesse. The vineyard's location helps produce wines that combine the depth and concentration traditionally associated with Pommard with the elegance and aromatic refinement often found in neighboring Volnay.

The 2023 vintage offers an appealing expression of ripe red cherries, raspberries, blackberries, subtle violets, and delicate earthy spice. On the palate, layers of red and dark fruit are complemented by refined tannins, lively acidity, and mineral undertones. The wine's structured yet polished character leads to a persistent finish with lingering fruit and savory notes.

A sophisticated Premier Cru Burgundy with excellent potential for further development in the cellar, this Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, lamb, beef tenderloin, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses.

Expert Ratings

94 points, John Gilman, View From The Cellar (Apr 2025) I am not certain when these great old vines will celebrate their one hundredth birthday, but we are getting close to that landmark vintage. The 2023 Chanlins from Mark O’Connell and his team is a stunning young wine, offering up a complex and utterly refined bouquet of red and black cherries, pomegranate, pigeon, a very complex base of soil tones, a touch of nutskin, a dollop of fresh thyme, woodsmoke and cedary oak. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, focused and beautifully transparent down to its soil, with a superb core of fruit, good acids and grip, fine-grained tannins and excellent balance on the long, complex and very, very promising finish. This is another very elegant Pommard in the making, but it will need its proper hibernation time down in the cellar before it starts to drink with true generosity. In due course, it will be magical.

90-92 points, Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy (Jan 2025): 95 year old vines. On the hillside with springs, even though they were mostly dry in 2023. Far from the deepest colour. The fruit is discreet, with a touch of iodine, less evenly balanced across the palate, light tannins, the wine tapering towards a saline finish. Drink from 2029-2037. Tasted Oct 2024.

Region: Burgundy, Côte de Beaune

Appellation: Pommard Premier Cru, Les Chanlins

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

Wine Type: Dry Red Wine

Classification: Premier Cru

Vintage: 2023

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Corton Bressandes Grand Cru 2023 is an exceptional Pinot Noir from the prestigious Corton Grand Cru appellation in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Combining remarkable elegance, depth, and structure, this limited-production wine beautifully expresses the distinctive terroir of the historic Corton hillside.

The domaine cultivates just 0.20 hectares of mature Pinot Noir vines in Les Bressandes, planted on well-drained clay and limestone soils with excellent southern exposure. Production is extremely limited, traditionally yielding approximately 600 bottles annually.

The 2023 vintage offers expressive aromas of ripe black raspberries, cassis, dark cherries, and earthy spice. On the palate, the wine reveals vibrant red and dark fruit, a beautifully textured mid-palate, refined acidity, and firm yet balanced tannins. Subtle oak influences complement its mineral character, leading to a long, structured finish with impressive depth and aging potential.

A sophisticated and cellar-worthy Grand Cru Burgundy, this wine pairs beautifully with roasted duck, beef tenderloin, venison, wild mushrooms, and aged cheeses.

Recommended Drinking Window: 2030-2042

Expert Ratings

92 Burghound: A riper nose of cassis, spicy black raspberry liqueur and newly turned earth is complemented by sleek, vibrant and delicious middle weight flavors that possess an attractively textured mid-palate before terminating in a firm, youthfully austere and slightly grippy finale.

94 Jasper Morris:  ruby. Plenty of fruit on the nose, but currently a little bit swamped by the wood, especially on the palate. The fruit has the caressing texture of Bressandes, and was not picked too late. One new barrel in three, and the oak will settle down, at which point the fourth star will be merited as the fruit is fighting back strongly at the finish.

92 The Wine Spectator: Charming, elegant and harmonious, this red reveals cherry, raspberry, plum, sandalwood, licorice and toasty oak aromas and flavors. Solidly built, with great balance and a long, toasty, savory aftertaste. Give this three to five years to open up. Best from 2030 through 2048.

Guido Porro · Barolo DOCG · Vigna Santa Caterina · 2020

Guido Porro Barolo “Vigna Santa Caterina” 2020 is an elegant, traditionally crafted Nebbiolo from Serralunga d'Alba in Piedmont. Ripe red cherries and raspberries meet dried rose petals, violets, licorice and sweet spice, with earthy mineral notes adding depth. Vibrant acidity and polished tannins support a harmonious palate and a long, graceful finish.

The Producer & Vineyard

The family-owned Guido Porro estate emphasizes vineyard character and the purity of Nebbiolo through traditional winemaking. While Serralunga d'Alba is known for powerful, age-worthy Barolo, Vigna Santa Caterina offers a particularly graceful and approachable expression without sacrificing depth, aromatic complexity or structure.

Expert Reviews

Kerin O'Keefe, 95 Points · 2020: The 2020 Vigna Santa Caterina has enticing aromas of rose, violet and vineyard dust while the juicy, delicious palate boasts great red berry fruit, star anise and baking spice. Chalky, chewy tannins provide polished support.

Jeb Dunnuck, 94 Points · 2020: The medium ruby-colored 2020 Barolo V.S. Caterina is forward with aromas of toasted spices, cedar, raspberries, smoke, and wild herbs. I really enjoy the freshness of these wines, which offer ripe acidity balanced with elegant concentration of fruit. A medium-framed wine, it has good length and a refreshing and approachable feel, with notes of apricot on the finish and only a touch of warmth. Very nicely done, this wine can be enjoyed now through 2036

Pairing & Serving

Pair with braised beef, roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, truffle pasta or aged cheeses. Allow time to aerate for near-term enjoyment, or cellar for further development. The Jeb Dunnuck review recommends enjoyment through 2036.

Details

• Producer: Guido Porro
• Vintage: 2020
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Subregion: Langhe, Serralunga d'Alba
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Vineyard: Vigna Santa Caterina
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Type: Red wine
• Style: Dry, medium- to full-bodied
• Winemaking: Traditional methods
• Cellaring potential: Excellent

Guido Porro · Barolo DOCG · Vigna Rionda · 2021

Guido Porro Barolo “Vigna Rionda” 2021 expresses the depth, perfume and structure of this celebrated Serralunga d'Alba vineyard. Made from 100% Nebbiolo, it layers ripe red cherry and wild raspberry with rose petals, violets and dried herbs. Licorice, sweet tobacco and earthy mineral notes add complexity, while vibrant acidity and firm, refined tannins carry a long, savory finish.

The Producer & Vineyard

Fourth-generation winemaker Guido Porro follows traditional methods that emphasize vineyard character and Nebbiolo purity. Vigna Rionda lies in the Langhe hills of Piedmont, with calcareous clay and limestone soils supporting wines known for elegance, structure and long-term development.

The estate inherited 0.8 hectares in Vigna Rionda in 2011 and replanted with a massal selection from its oldest Lazzarito plot. The concentrated, fresh and refined 2021 vintage has earned particular praise for its aromatic lift, layered palate and persistence. Built for patient cellaring, this Barolo can develop greater aromatic complexity and a silkier texture with maturity.

Expert Reviews

Kerin O'Keefe, KerinOKeefe.com, 99 Points · 2021: "Guido Porro nailed the 2021 vintage as all the firm's Barolos demonstrate, especially the compelling Vigna Rionda. Still youthfully austere with racy tension, the structured, elegant palate delivers red cherry, strawberry compote, nutmeg and licorice set against a backbone of close-grained, velvety tannins. Bright acidity keeps it balanced and energized. An incredible showing. Drink 2036-2051. Abv: 15%"

Michaela Morris, Decanter, 98 Points · 2021: "Upon inheriting 0.8ha in Vignarionda in 2011, the estate replanted the vineyard with a massal selection from their oldest plot in Lazzarito. Despite the young age of vines, this exhibits extraordinary profundity, character and breed. It unfurls slowly with heady florals, toasted hazelnut and smoky incense. The palate is still tightly knit around a matrix of sweet, rich berries, tangy pomegranate, violet and chestnut. Long, silky tannins are seamlessly integrated but not ready to yield their commanding grip. Piercing and persistent in length. Soulfully satisfying, this is among the top wines of the vintage."

Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 97 Points · 2021: "The 2021 Barolo Vignarionda is a total knockout. Crushed rose petal, kirsch, mint, blood orange, sweet spice and candy are all beautifully lifted. This is the first Porro Rionda that captures the haunting inner perfume, the sweetness, the finesse that are all at the heart of what makes Rionda one of the very top sites in Barolo. Readers will find a wine of beguiling complexity and class."

Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com, 96 Points · 2021: "Pouring a jeweled ruby hue, the 2021 Barolo Vignarionda is the most layered wine in the lineup. Aromas of wild raspberries, licorice, alpine herbs, and dark stones emerge from the glass. Medium-bodied but expansive on the palate, it brings forward mouthwatering energy with bright acidity and ripe tannins. Sweet citrus and mineral notes carry through the long finish. Drink 2026-2046."

Pairing & Serving

Pair with braised beef, roasted lamb, wild game, porcini mushrooms, truffle risotto or aged cheeses. For near-term enjoyment, consider decanting and serving slightly below room temperature. The critics offer different drinking windows: Audrey Frick suggests 2026–2046, while Kerin O'Keefe recommends 2036–2051.

Details

• Producer: Guido Porro
• Vintage: 2021
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Subregion: Langhe, Serralunga d'Alba
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Vineyard: Vigna Rionda
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Type: Red wine
• Style: Dry, structured
• Soils: Calcareous clay and limestone
• Winemaking: Traditional methods
• Aging potential: Suitable for long-term cellaring

Guido Porro · Barolo DOCG · Vigna Lazzairasco · 2020

Guido Porro Barolo “Vigna Lazzairasco” 2020 is a traditionally crafted Nebbiolo from the Lazzarito cru in Serralunga d'Alba. Ripe red cherry, raspberry and rose-petal aromas mingle with orange peel, licorice, mint, crushed stone and earthy spice. Layers of red fruit, blood orange and savory herbs unfold over vibrant acidity and firm, fine-grained tannins, carrying a long finish with freshness and depth.

The Producer & Vineyard

Fourth-generation winemaker Guido Porro emphasizes the character of the vineyard through traditional methods. Vigna Lazzairasco, described in the Jeb Dunnuck review as the estate's oldest vineyard, lies on clay and limestone soils within Serralunga d'Alba's Lazzarito cru. The site produces wines prized for concentration, complexity and cellaring potential.

Made from 100% Nebbiolo, the wine undergoes extended maceration before aging for three years in large Slavonian oak barrels. This approach preserves fruit purity while developing the layered character of classic Barolo. The 2020 combines substantial structure with balance and aromatic refinement.

Expert Reviews

Kerin O'Keeffe, 95 Points · 2020: Alluring aromas recall ripe berry, wild rose, vineyard dust and culinary spice. The palate is firm but elegant, offering crushed raspberry, tart cherry, licorice and a dollop of vanilla supported by taut, fine-grained tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it bright while a hint of almond liqueur lingers on the finish. Drink 2026–2034.

Jeb Dunnuck, 94 Points · 2020: Brick red in color, the 2020 Barolo V. Lazzairasco is spicy and perfumed with notes of eucalyptus, mossy earth, grenadine, cherries, dried rose, and anise. Medium-bodied, it has a nice purity of concentration on the palate, with ripe tannins, a velvety texture, and a clean, balanced finish that has good length. It’s another impressive wine from Porro with some potential for aging over the next 12-15 years. 

Pairing & Serving

Pair with braised beef, roasted lamb, wild game, porcini mushrooms, truffle risotto or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. For near-term enjoyment, consider decanting and serving slightly below room temperature. Built for patient cellaring, the wine has potential through 2040 and beyond; the Kerin O'Keefe summary recommends 2031–2046.

Details

• Producer: Guido Porro
• Vintage: 2020
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Subregion: Langhe, Serralunga d'Alba
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Vineyard: Vigna Lazzairasco, Lazzarito Cru
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Type: Red wine
• Style: Dry, structured
• Soils: Clay and limestone
• Winemaking: Traditional, extended maceration
• Aging: Three years in large Slavonian oak barrels
• Alcohol: 15%
• Cellaring potential: Through 2040 and beyond

Ammura · Etna Rosso DOC · 2022

Tommasi Ammura Etna Rosso Contrada 2022 is a single-vineyard Sicilian red that captures the elegance, complexity and volcanic character of Mount Etna. Produced by Ammura, part of Tommasi Family Estates, this limited-production Nerello Mascalese is an age-worthy expression of Etna’s northeastern slopes.

The wine comes from the Contrada Alboretto vineyard in the Chiuse del Signore district near Linguaglossa, approximately 650 meters above sea level. Mineral-rich volcanic soils, cooling mountain breezes and significant temperature variations encourage freshness, aromatic intensity and structural elegance. The vines average approximately 20 years of age and include two small parcels of ancient vines.

Winemaking & Vintage

Made exclusively from 100% Nerello Mascalese, the wine begins with carefully hand-harvested and selected grapes. Temperature-controlled fermentation takes place in stainless steel at 18–22°C, with 12–15 days of maceration, followed by natural malolactic fermentation. Maturation continues for six months in stainless steel and another 24 months in large 20-hectoliter oak barrels, developing depth and refinement while preserving vibrant fruit and mineral character.

The 2022 growing season brought early summer heat and drought, followed by favorable late-season conditions that allowed excellent maturity and balanced phenolic development. The resulting wine combines ripe fruit concentration with Etna’s characteristic freshness, fine tannins and elegance.

Tasting Notes

Bright ruby red with delicate garnet reflections, the wine opens with ripe cherries, wild raspberries, pomegranate and red berries. Blood orange, Mediterranean herbs, black pepper, graphite and smoky volcanic stone add aromatic complexity.

Medium-bodied and harmonious, the palate layers concentrated red fruit with savory herbs, delicate spice and pronounced mineral nuances. Vibrant acidity and firm yet velvety tannins bring precision and balance, leading to a long finish of crushed stone, citrus and subtle volcanic smokiness. Often compared with the finesse of Pinot Noir and the structure of Nebbiolo, Nerello Mascalese offers a distinctive expression of Mount Etna here, with depth and aging potential for collectors and lovers of Italian reds.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

James Suckling, 94 Points : A vibrant and savory Etna Rosso displaying aromas of flowers, restrained red fruit, blood orange and graphite. Medium-bodied with crisp acidity and firm, velvety tannins that show a delicate chalky texture. Harmonious and structured, with an impressively persistent finish.

Vinous, 93 Points : An expressive and complex wine opening with aromas of mentholated blackberries, balsamic herbs and crushed rocks. The wine displays the savory character, mineral intensity and refined structure associated with the finest expressions of Etna's volcanic terroir.

Pairing & Serving

Pair with roasted lamb, grilled meats, braised rabbit, pork tenderloin, wild mushroom risotto, Pasta alla Norma, Sicilian caponata, fennel sausage or moderately aged cheeses. Serve at 60–64°F (16–18°C); decanting before serving helps reveal the wine’s aromatic complexity. Suitable for extended aging under proper cellar conditions.

Details

• Producer: Ammura, Tommasi Family Estates
• Wine: Etna Rosso Contrada
• Vintage: 2022
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Sicily
• Appellation: Etna Rosso DOC
• Subregion: Mount Etna, northeastern slopes
• Grape: 100% Nerello Mascalese
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Medium
• Vineyard: Contrada Alboretto, Chiuse del Signore, Linguaglossa
• Altitude: Approximately 650 meters
• Soil: Mineral-rich volcanic soils
• Vine age: Approximately 20 years, including two small parcels of ancient vines
• Vine training: Spur cordon
• Vine density: Approximately 4,200 vines per hectare
• Harvest: Hand-harvested grapes
• Fermentation: Stainless steel at 18–22°C, with 12–15 days of maceration and natural malolactic fermentation
• Aging: Six months in stainless steel, followed by 24 months in 20-hectoliter oak barrels
• Alcohol: 14% ABV

Casisano · Rosso di Montalcino DOC · 2024

Tommasi Casisano Rosso di Montalcino 2024 is a vibrant, elegant Tuscan red that brings together Sangiovese’s bright fruit, refreshing acidity and supple tannins. Produced at the historic Casisano estate, part of Tommasi Family Estates since 2015, it offers Montalcino’s freshness, finesse and distinctive personality in a youthful, approachable style.

Set in the southeastern hills of Montalcino at approximately 480 meters above sea level, Casisano’s well-ventilated vineyards enjoy southeastern exposure, significant temperature variations and stony soils rich in galestro, the schistous clay associated with Tuscany’s vineyards. These conditions encourage slow, even ripening while preserving Sangiovese’s natural acidity and aromatic purity.

Winemaking

Crafted from 100% estate-grown Sangiovese Grosso, the wine undergoes traditional fermentation with approximately 12 days of skin maceration. Eight months in large Slavonian oak casks and a further six months of bottle aging develop structure and complexity without overshadowing its bright fruit and youthful freshness.

Tasting Notes

Brilliant ruby red in color, the 2024 vintage opens with ripe red cherries, raspberries, juicy plums and delicate violet aromas. Savory herbs, sweet spice and earthy undertones add depth.

The medium-bodied palate is lively and balanced, with fresh cherry and red berry flavors joined by plum, delicate spice and savory nuances. Supple tannins and refreshing acidity create a harmonious texture and a clean, persistent, fruit-driven finish. Often considered Brunello di Montalcino’s younger sibling, Rosso di Montalcino expresses the region with a more immediate, accessible personality. This Casisano combines traditional Tuscan elegance with versatility for everyday meals and special occasions alike.

Expert Review

James Suckling, 90 Points · Vintage Not Specified: A savory and inviting Sangiovese displaying notes of cured meat, chocolate, dark cherries and raspberries. Medium-bodied, juicy and fluid on the palate, with supple fruit and an appealing, smooth finish.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 64°F (18°C) alongside pasta with tomato or meat sauces, grilled steaks or other grilled meats, roasted chicken or poultry, pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, Italian charcuterie, pizza or aged Pecorino Toscano and other aged cheeses. Its bright acidity and balanced structure complement classic Italian cuisine.

Details

• Producer: Tommasi Family Estates
• Estate: Casisano
• Wine: Rosso di Montalcino
• Vintage: 2024
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Tuscany (Toscana)
• Subregion: Montalcino
• Appellation: Rosso di Montalcino DOC
• Grape: 100% Sangiovese Grosso
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Medium
• Vineyard: Podere Casisano, southeastern Montalcino
• Altitude: Approximately 480 meters above sea level
• Soil: Stony soils rich in galestro (schistous clay)
• Exposure: Southeast
• Vine training: Cordon spur
• Vinification: Traditional fermentation with approximately 12 days of skin maceration
• Aging: Eight months in large Slavonian oak casks, followed by six months of bottle aging
• Alcohol: 13.5% ABV

Ammura · Etna Bianco DOC · 2023

Tommasi Ammura Etna Bianco 2023 is an elegant, vibrant Sicilian white that combines Carricante’s citrus freshness with the distinctive mineral character of Mount Etna. Produced by Ammura, part of Tommasi Family Estates, it offers aromatic purity, a silky texture and a long, savory finish.

The vineyards lie on Mount Etna’s northeastern slopes near Linguaglossa, approximately 650 meters above sea level, in the Alboretto and Chiuse del Signore districts. Mineral-rich volcanic soils, cooling mountain breezes and pronounced day-to-night temperature variations encourage aromatic precision, refreshing acidity and distinctive character. The spur-cordon-trained vines average approximately 20 years of age.

Winemaking

Made from 100% Carricante, the wine begins with grapes hand-harvested during October in small 15 kg baskets. Gentle pressing precedes temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation at 16–18°C, with natural malolactic fermentation. Twelve months on fine lees in stainless steel, with monthly bâtonnage, develop texture and complexity while preserving vibrant fruit and volcanic minerality. A further 12 months of bottle aging complete the maturation.

Tasting Notes

Bright straw yellow with delicate golden reflections, the 2023 vintage opens with grapefruit, lemon zest, citron and green apple, complemented by orange blossom, Mediterranean herbs and subtle smoky mineral notes. White peach, almond and delicate spice add aromatic depth.

Fresh and energetic, the palate layers crisp citrus, tart green apple and orchard fruit over lively acidity. Extended lees aging brings a silky, rounded texture, while crushed stone, flint, almond and saline minerality linger on the long, refreshing finish. Combining the elegance of a mineral-driven white Burgundy with Sicily’s volcanic character, this Etna Bianco offers depth and versatility. Enjoyable now, its acidity and concentration also support further development and medium-term aging under proper storage conditions.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points · 2023: The 2023 vintage reveals energetic aromas of lemon, lime and crushed stone. The palate is bright and refreshing, offering tart green apple and citrus zest supported by exceptionally lively acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

James Suckling, 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified: A spicy, mineral-driven white displaying aromas of white pepper, crushed stone, smoke, green apple and citrus. Medium-bodied and vibrant, with tingling acidity, a silky texture and a long, lean finish.

Falstaff, 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Intense straw yellow with golden reflections. Aromas of grapefruit, chamomile and black tea introduce a refreshing, focused palate with mouthwatering acidity and a distinctive saline finish.

Vinous, 91 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Aromas of almond custard, white peach and delicate spice lead to a silky, smooth palate with ripe orchard fruit and subtle floral notes. Mineral nuances and candied citrus accents contribute to a long, refreshing finish.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 46–50°F (8–10°C) with oysters, grilled branzino or other grilled fish, tuna carpaccio, shrimp, shellfish pasta, sushi, fresh goat cheese and other fresh cheeses, or asparagus and vegetable risotto. Its refreshing acidity and savory mineral finish also complement delicate Mediterranean dishes and lightly seasoned poultry.

Details

• Producer: Ammura, Tommasi Family Estates
• Wine: Ammura Etna Bianco
• Vintage: 2023
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Sicily (Sicilia)
• Appellation: Etna Bianco DOC
• Subregion: Mount Etna, northeastern slopes
• Grape: 100% Carricante
• Type: White wine, dry
• Body: 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
• Vine training: Spur cordon
• Harvest: Hand-harvested during October in 15 kg baskets
• Vinification: Gentle pressing; stainless steel fermentation at 16–18°C, with natural malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 12 months on fine lees in stainless steel with monthly bâtonnage, followed by 12 months in bottle
• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
• Residual sugar: 0.5 g/L
• Total acidity: 5.88 g/L

Casisano · Brunello di Montalcino DOCG · 2020

Tommasi Casisano Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is an elegant, structured Tuscan red that combines concentrated Sangiovese fruit with refreshing acidity and fine-grained tannins. Produced at the historic Casisano estate, part of Tommasi Family Estates since 2015, it brings traditional winemaking together with Montalcino’s distinctive terroir.

Set in the southeastern hills of Montalcino at approximately 480 meters above sea level, Casisano is surrounded by ancient woodlands. Cooling breezes and pronounced day-to-night temperature variations encourage aromatic complexity while preserving freshness. The carefully tended vineyards enjoy southeastern exposure and stony soils rich in galestro, a distinctive schistous clay.

Winemaking & Vintage

Crafted from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, the wine undergoes traditional fermentation with approximately 25 days of skin maceration. Three years in large Slavonian oak casks and a minimum of six months in bottle develop complexity, elegance and refined tannic structure without overwhelming the natural fruit.

The 2020 vintage combines approachability with aging potential. Its vibrant structure and elegant fruit make it enjoyable with decanting, while firm tannins and balanced acidity support further cellar development. Under proper storage conditions, the listing’s cellaring guidance extends through approximately 2040.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby red with subtle garnet reflections, the wine opens with ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, redcurrants, rose and violet. Blood orange, dried herbs, tobacco, leather, earthy minerals and subtle spice add aromatic depth.

The balanced, medium- to full-bodied palate reveals concentrated red fruit supported by refreshing acidity and fine-grained tannins. Cherry, raspberry, licorice, black pepper and savory herbs unfold into a long, mineral-driven finish with freshness and persistence.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast, 94 Points · 2020: The 2020 vintage offers expressive aromas of espresso, licorice and orange peel. The palate reveals juicy cherries and strawberries accented by coffee and citrus, supported by textured, chewy tannins.

Wine Spectator, 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Fresh and focused, displaying cherry, blood orange, eucalyptus, iron and spice. Dense, fine-grained tannins and lively acidity lead to a mineral-accented finish. Recommended drinking window: 2026-2040.

Decanter, 92 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Delicate mountain flowers, redcurrant and raspberry define the aromatic profile. The medium-bodied palate offers fine tannins, bitter herbs and forest-floor nuances, complemented by refreshing acidity.

James Suckling, 91 Points · Vintage Not Specified: An elegant, structured Brunello with floral aromas of roses and violets, complemented by leafy notes, leather and black pepper. Medium-bodied with crisp acidity and firm, ripe tannins.

Jeb Dunnuck, 91 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Fresh red cherry, anise, herbs and earthy notes characterize this vibrant Brunello. Medium-bodied with fine, slightly dusty tannins and lively acidity, offering excellent balance and freshness.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 64°F (18°C), with decanting to help the wine open. Pair with grilled steaks, roasted lamb, braised beef, wild game, mushroom risotto, hearty pasta with ragù or aged Pecorino Toscano. Its elegance, complexity and distinctive sense of place suit special occasions and fine dining.

Details

• Producer: Tommasi Family Estates
• Estate: Casisano
• Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
• Vintage: 2020
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Tuscany (Toscana)
• Subregion: Montalcino
• Appellation: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
• Grape: 100% Sangiovese Grosso
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Medium to full
• Vineyard: Casisano Estate, southeastern Montalcino
• Altitude: Approximately 480 meters above sea level
• Soil: Stony soils rich in galestro (schistous clay)
• Exposure: Southeast
• Vine training: Cordon spur
• Vinification: Traditional fermentation with approximately 25 days of skin maceration
• Aging: Three years in large Slavonian oak casks, followed by a minimum of six months in bottle
• Alcohol: 14% ABV

De Buris · Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC · 2019

Tommasi De Buris Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2019 is a single-vineyard Veneto red that combines concentrated cherry fruit, savory mineral character and refined tannins. Part of the limited-production De Buris collection, it reflects the Tommasi family’s dedication to Valpolicella Classica through patient winemaking and extended maturation.

The wine comes from La Groletta, a historic vineyard in Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella, where excellent sun exposure, cooling breezes from Lake Garda and distinctive soils encourage freshness, purity and mineral expression. Unlike De Buris Amarone, this Valpolicella Classico Superiore is made from freshly harvested grapes without appassimento drying, offering a distinctive alternative for collectors and enthusiasts.

Winemaking

The blend is 65% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 15% Corvinone and 5% Oseleta. Hand-harvested grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation for 10–15 days. The wine then matures for 36 months in large 30-hectoliter Slavonian oak casks, followed by 24 months in stainless steel. This extended maturation develops aromatic complexity and refined structure while preserving freshness and vibrant fruit.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby red with subtle garnet reflections, the 2019 vintage reveals ripe black cherries, marasca cherries and dark plums, layered with sweet herbs, cedar and delicate peppery spice. Dried fruit, tobacco, earthy minerals and subtle floral nuances emerge as the wine opens.

Structured and concentrated, the medium- to full-bodied palate combines red and black fruit with vibrant acidity, finely woven tannins and savory minerality. Dark cherry, blackberry, licorice, cedar and warm spice unfold into a long, persistent finish with refreshing citrus accents. Powerful yet elegant, its balance and complexity offer potential for further aging under proper cellar conditions.

Expert Reviews

Vinous, 94 Points · 2019: The 2019 vintage reveals a dark, captivating bouquet of sweet herbs, dried black cherries, spices and cedar. The palate is deeply savory, with mineral-infused red and black fruit, vibrant acidity and exceptional concentration. A long, energetic finish delivers impressive tension and complexity.

James Suckling, 93 Points · Vintage Not Specified: An intriguing and layered wine with aromas of sweet cherries, cloves, chamomile and subtle salted caramel. Full-bodied and enveloping, with notes of cedar and cinnamon, polished structure and a warm, elegant finish.

Falstaff, 93 Points · Vintage Not Specified: Brilliant ruby red with delicate garnet reflections. Aromas of dark cherries, ripe plums and subtle smoky notes lead to a polished palate featuring finely woven tannins, juicy dark fruit and a persistent finish with hints of coffee.

Wine Spectator, 90 Points · Vintage Not Specified: A firm, savory red offering dried cherry, earthy mineral notes, tobacco and leather. Well-integrated tannins provide structure, while peppery spice adds complexity to the lingering finish.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 64–68°F (18–20°C), with decanting to help reveal the wine’s aromatic complexity. Pair with roasted lamb, braised beef, grilled meats, wild mushroom risotto, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, mature cheeses or fine Italian charcuterie.

Details

• Producer: Tommasi Family Estates
• Wine: De Buris Valpolicella Classico Superiore
• Vintage: 2019
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Veneto
• Subregion: Valpolicella Classica
• Appellation: Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC
• Grapes: 65% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 15% Corvinone, 5% Oseleta
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Medium to full
• Vineyard: La Groletta, Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella
• Harvest: Hand-harvested grapes
• Vinification: Temperature-controlled fermentation for 10–15 days using fresh grapes without appassimento
• Aging: 36 months in 30-hectoliter Slavonian oak casks, followed by 24 months in stainless steel
• Alcohol: 14% ABV
• Closure: Natural cork

De Buris · Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva · 2013

Tommasi De Buris Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva 2013 is a concentrated, refined Veneto red that balances rich dark fruit with savory complexity, velvety tannins and vibrant acidity. This limited-production wine represents the Tommasi family’s flagship luxury Amarone project, celebrating more than a century of winemaking heritage through patience, precision and respect for Valpolicella Classica.

The wine originates from La Groletta in Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella, where carefully selected indigenous varieties benefit from a hillside setting and distinctive terroir. The project takes its name from Villa De Buris, one of Valpolicella’s oldest historic villas, connecting the region’s cultural heritage with its winemaking traditions.

Winemaking

A traditional blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Oseleta is harvested by hand and carefully selected before drying through the appassimento method. Slow dehydration concentrates the grapes’ natural sugars, aromas and flavors before controlled fermentation. Extended oak maturation and bottle refinement develop a sophisticated structure, silky texture and aromatic depth.

Tasting Notes

The 2013 vintage reveals dried cherries, dark plums, wild berries and spiced orange peel, layered with rosemary, sage, tobacco and subtle earthy notes. Full-bodied yet balanced, the palate offers concentrated dark fruit, savory herbs, delicate spice and mineral nuances. Velvety tannins and vibrant acidity bring freshness and definition to an exceptionally long, structured finish.

Despite its power and concentration, De Buris maintains finesse and restraint. Its balance, structure and complexity make it a compelling choice for collectors and Amarone enthusiasts, with potential to reward further aging under proper cellar conditions.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2013

Vinous, 97 Points · : An exceptionally complex and savory Amarone featuring dried cherries, rosemary, sage, spiced orange peel and subtle camphor. Vibrant acidity, mineral-driven fruit and firm tannins create remarkable tension, freshness and aging potential.

James Suckling, 94 Points · : An earthy, spicy and full-bodied Amarone with aromas of plum, coffee and exotic spices. Dense yet polished on the palate, with velvety tannins, refreshing acidity and a refined finish.

Falstaff, 94 Points ·: Fragrant aromas of mint, orange, elderberry and rose petals lead to a concentrated, juicy palate with creamy texture, warm fruit and persistent tannins.

Wine Spectator, 92 Points · : Layers of black raspberry, dried cherry, espresso, tobacco, vanilla and caramelized notes unfold across a rich yet balanced palate, supported by fine, chalky tannins.

Pairing & Serving

Serve at 64–68°F (18–20°C) with braised beef, venison, roasted lamb, game dishes, wild mushroom risotto, aged Parmigiano Reggiano or mature Italian cheeses. Equally suited to special occasions or contemplative enjoyment on its own.

Details

• Producer: Tommasi Family Estates
• Wine: De Buris Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva
• Vintage: 2013
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Italy
• Region: Veneto
• Subregion: Valpolicella Classica
• Appellation: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva DOCG
• Grapes: Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Oseleta
• Type: Red wine, dry
• Body: Full
• Vineyard: La Groletta, Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella
• Harvest: Hand-harvested and carefully selected grapes
• Vinification: Traditional appassimento drying followed by controlled fermentation
• Aging: Extended oak maturation and bottle refinement
• Alcohol: 15.5% ABV
• Closure: Natural cork

90 Points Wine Spectator

From the acclaimed team behind Domaine Leflaive comes the exceptional Esprit Leflaive Saint-Romain Sous la Velle Blanc 2020, a beautifully refined Chardonnay that captures the elegance, purity, and mineral character of Burgundy's Côte de Beaune.

Established in 2018, Esprit Leflaive extends the domaine's celebrated winemaking philosophy beyond Puligny-Montrachet, selecting outstanding vineyard parcels throughout Burgundy. The Sous la Velle vineyard lies on a gentle, southeast-facing slope below the elevated village of Saint-Romain, west of Auxey-Duresses and near Meursault. Its limestone-rich marl and clay soils contribute freshness, structure, and distinctive minerality.

Crafted from 100% Chardonnay, the wine is aged for 12 months in oak barrels, with just 15% new oak, followed by six months in stainless steel. This careful approach develops complexity and texture while preserving the wine's vibrant character.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Saint-Romain Sous la Velle opens with inviting aromas of ripe pear, fresh lemon, white blossoms, and delicate brioche. The palate is beautifully balanced, offering a rounded, silky texture complemented by bright acidity and subtle mineral undertones. Notes of citrus and orchard fruit carry through to a precise, refreshing finish.

Expert Rating

90 Points — Wine Spectator: 

This white starts out round and fleshy, sporting lime blossom, citronella and mineral flavors. The finish is more precise, with a succulent feel and fine length.

Food Pairing

An elegant companion to roasted poultry, grilled seafood, seared scallops, creamy risotto, and soft cheeses.

Wine Details

• Producer: Esprit Leflaive

• Region: Saint-Romain, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France

• Vintage: 2020

• Grape: 100% Chardonnay

• Classification: Saint-Romain AOC

• Farming: Organic

• Style: Dry White Burgundy

• Bottle Size: 750ml

A sophisticated expression of Saint-Romain, combining the finesse of Domaine Leflaive's winemaking tradition with the distinctive freshness and mineral elegance of this remarkable Burgundy terroir.

Esprit Leflaive Pouilly-Fuissé Premier Cru Le Clos Reyssier 2020 is an exceptional single-vineyard Chardonnay from Burgundy's renowned Mâconnais region, combining the richness and generosity of southern Burgundy with the elegance, precision, and craftsmanship associated with the legendary Leflaive name.

Sourced from the prestigious Le Clos Reyssier vineyard in the village of Chaintré, at the southern end of Pouilly-Fuissé, this wine comes from an east-facing hillside planted in 1950. The vineyard's clay-limestone soils contribute to the wine's distinctive depth, concentration, and beautifully balanced structure. The 2020 vintage marks the vineyard's elevation to Premier Cru classification, recognizing the exceptional quality of this distinctive terroir.

The wine opens with an inviting bouquet of ripe yellow peach, honey, lemon zest, and delicate floral notes, complemented by subtle hints of butterscotch, toasted almonds, and crushed stone. On the palate, it is rich, generous, and beautifully textured, offering layers of orchard fruit, citrus, and gentle spice. Vibrant acidity provides freshness and definition, balancing the wine's impressive concentration and luxurious mouthfeel.

Carefully vinified with traditional Burgundian techniques, the wine undergoes fermentation in oak barrels, followed by 12 months of aging in oak, including 15% new barrels, and an additional six months in stainless steel. This thoughtful approach enhances complexity while preserving the purity of the Chardonnay fruit.

The result is an elegant yet powerful Premier Cru Burgundy, with remarkable depth, refined texture, and a long, harmonious finish. Esprit Leflaive Le Clos Reyssier 2020 beautifully demonstrates the exceptional potential of Pouilly-Fuissé's finest vineyards.

Expert Rating

93 Points Wine Spectator: "An opulent style, revealing honey, butterscotch, peach, lemon and stone aromas and flavors. Though rich, this white is focused by vivid acidity, which keeps everything balanced and long on the resonant finish." — Bruce Sanderson, 2024

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Bright golden yellow with delicate reflections.

Aroma: Ripe yellow peach, honey, lemon zest, yellow flowers, toasted almonds, butterscotch, and subtle mineral notes.

Palate: Rich, concentrated, and beautifully textured, with generous stone fruit, citrus, delicate spice, and refreshing acidity. Subtle oak influence contributes additional depth without overwhelming the fruit.

Finish: Long, elegant, and harmonious, with lingering peach, toasted almond, and mineral nuances.

Food Pairing

An outstanding companion to butter-poached lobster, seared scallops, roasted turbot, Dover sole, and creamy seafood preparations. Its generous texture and lively acidity also pair beautifully with roast chicken, veal in a delicate cream sauce, mushroom risotto, and aged Comté cheese.

Serving Temperature: 50–54°F (10–12°C).

Cellaring Potential: Wine Spectator recommends drinking through 2028, while Corney & Barrow suggests 2025–2029. The wine can be enjoyed now for its expressive fruit and refined complexity.

Esprit Leflaive Bourgogne Blanc 2023 is a beautifully refined expression of Chardonnay from Burgundy's prestigious Côte de Beaune, offering the elegance, purity, and precision associated with the renowned Leflaive name.

Produced from carefully selected, biodynamically farmed vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet, this exceptional regional Burgundy showcases the character of one of France's most celebrated white wine villages. The grapes originate from five small vineyard parcels situated toward Chassagne-Montrachet, where limestone-rich terroir contributes freshness, structure, and mineral complexity.

The 2023 vintage opens with an inviting bouquet of bright lemon zest, white flowers, fresh green apple, and delicate herbal nuances. On the palate, the wine is graceful and beautifully balanced, combining lively acidity with a silky, supple texture. Layers of citrus, orchard fruit, and lemon curd unfold with subtle richness, while a fine mineral backbone provides definition and freshness.

Aged for 12 months in oak barrels, including just 10% new oak, followed by six months in stainless steel, the wine achieves a harmonious balance between delicate texture and vibrant fruit expression.

Elegant, expressive, and wonderfully approachable, Esprit Leflaive Bourgogne Blanc 2023 offers a compelling introduction to the distinctive craftsmanship and refined style of Leflaive's white Burgundies.

Winemaker Notes

Domaine Leflaive Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2023 represents the pinnacle of white Burgundy, showcasing the extraordinary elegance, precision, and complexity that have made Domaine Leflaive one of the world's most celebrated Chardonnay producers.

Produced from biodynamically cultivated vineyards in the prestigious Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru appellation of Puligny-Montrachet, this exceptional wine reflects the distinctive limestone-rich soils and elevated vineyard position that contribute to its remarkable minerality and finesse.

The 2023 vintage reveals an exquisite aromatic bouquet of white flowers, fresh orchard fruits, lemon zest, ripe peach, and delicate honey, complemented by toasted hazelnuts and crushed limestone. On the palate, the wine is beautifully concentrated yet remarkably refined, offering a silky texture, vibrant acidity, and layers of citrus, stone fruit, and subtle spice.

Its impressive depth is balanced by extraordinary freshness and mineral tension, culminating in a long, elegant finish with lingering chalky and saline nuances.

A magnificent expression of Chevalier-Montrachet, this Grand Cru combines power with exceptional delicacy and promises decades of graceful evolution in the cellar.

Expert Ratings

97 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: Leflaive's 2023 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru is a great success, unwinding in the glass with a nuanced bouquet of white flowers, crisp orchard fruit, clear honey, toasted hazelnuts and wet stones. Full-bodied, satiny and suave, it's pure and racy, with compelling mid-palate amplitude, beautiful textural refinement and a long, chalky finish. Its ethereal, elegant style makes it a study in contrasts with the muscular, powerful Bâtard.

97 Wine Spectator: Peach, pineapple, lemon oil, citronella, lime blossom, hazelnut, white pepper and oyster shell aromas and flavors are among the complex details in this intense white. Tightens up while building to the superlong aftertaste, all the while remaining elegant and classy. Shows impressive harmony and length.

96 Vinous: The 2023 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru has a tightly wound bouquet despite my giving it five to ten minutes to open up. With hints of sunflower seed and crushed limestone, this is a real clenched fist aromatically. The palate is very well balanced with intense yellow and white fruit, less minerally than the Bâtard perhaps with just a hint of wild honey on the finish. It is a lovely wine…but could this be a year where Bâtard takes the glory?

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with delicate green reflections.

Aroma: White blossoms, fresh pear, crisp apple, lemon zest, ripe peach, honey, toasted hazelnut, and crushed limestone.

Palate: Rich and beautifully textured, with vibrant acidity, concentrated orchard fruit, citrus, subtle spice, and pronounced mineral character.

Finish: Exceptionally long, precise, and elegant, with lingering chalky minerality and refreshing citrus notes.

Food Pairing

An outstanding companion to lobster, seared scallops, turbot, Dover sole, roasted poultry, and delicate cream-based dishes. Its mineral intensity and refined structure also complement truffle preparations and aged Comté cheese.

Cellaring Potential: Excellent aging potential. Wine Advocate suggests a drinking window of 2030–2050, while Wine Spectator recommends 2028–2038.

Entirely located in the town of Puligny, this Grand Cru was first mentioned back in 1397 when the abbey of Maizière purchased some of it. Old records mentioned that this plot might have been planted with gamay and pinot noir a few hundred years ago. When Dr. Lavalle published his classification of Bourgogne back in 1855, the climat was already planted to Chardonnay.  The 2023 vintage was generous in quantity and balanced in quality, following the excellent 2022. A mild, dry winter was followed by a cool, wet spring that helped recharge water reserves. 

An exceptional white Burgundy from Domaine Leflaive, the 2023 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru showcases the elegance, precision, and extraordinary complexity of one of Burgundy’s most prestigious vineyard sites. Crafted from Chardonnay grown in Puligny-Montrachet, this remarkable Grand Cru combines refined opulence, silky texture, vibrant acidity, and captivating minerality, delivering a beautifully balanced wine with impressive depth and aging potential.

Expert Ratings

96 Points – Wine Spectator: A ripe white, this exudes peach, pineapple, mango, and apple tart aromas and flavors. Toasted brioche and a range of baking spice notes emerge as this expands on the kaleidoscopic aftertaste. Starts out broad but gains focus and finesse on the aftertaste. Best from 2027 through 2037.

95 Points – Vinous: The 2023 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has a stern, backward, petrichor- and limestone-scented bouquet that is quite Zen-like after the range of Premier Crus. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a silver bead of acidity, gaining weight in the mouth and very saline on the finish, with hints of orange zest on the aftertaste. Excellent.

95 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: The 2023 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is a full-bodied, dense, and ample wine evocative of peach, orange oil, honeycomb, buttered toast, and white flowers. Structured and imposing, it combines generous richness with remarkable depth and complexity, promising to reward bottle aging.

93–95 Points – Burghound: Sourced from the Domaine’s oldest vines, this outstanding Grand Cru offers beautifully textured, concentrated, and full-bodied flavors with focused power. A pronounced bitter-lemon character carries through to an exceptionally long finish, highlighting the wine’s impressive structure, intensity, and potential for extended aging.

92-94 Prominent honeysuckle aromas add a touch of breadth to the equally ripe yet somehow more elegant nose of spicy and exotic jasmine tea and gardenia. There is again very good detail and a highly appealing underlying tension to the gorgeously textured flavors that exhibit focused power on the superbly long, balanced and compact finale. This is also built to age a decade or more but in this case, it could reasonably be approached after only 4 to 5 years.  

Vintage 2024 also available - Text Us at 212-724-6767 for special offer price.

Rich yet exquisitely refined, the wine opens with aromas of white flowers, ripe peach, pear, orange zest, and delicate pastry, complemented by crushed limestone and subtle earthy nuances. The palate is silky and concentrated, balancing generous stone-fruit flavors with bright acidity and a distinctive saline minerality. Layers of honeycomb, toasted brioche, and gentle spice lead to a long, harmonious finish of remarkable finesse. A magnificent expression of Grand Cru Chardonnay, offering both immediate sophistication and outstanding potential for graceful evolution in the cellar.

An exceptional white Burgundy from one of the region’s most celebrated producers, the 2023 Domaine Leflaive Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru combines extraordinary concentration, refined elegance, vibrant acidity, and profound mineral complexity. Crafted from Chardonnay grapes in the Côte de Beaune, this prestigious Grand Cru is a powerful yet beautifully balanced wine with remarkable aging potential.

Expert Ratings

98 Points – Vinous: The 2023 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has a little more intensity on the nose than the Bienvenue, with touches of struck flint, cold stone, and light Granny Smith apple scents that are tightly coiled and unfold with aeration. The palate is crisp and taut, much more mineral-driven than the Bienvenue, with a truly complex and persistent finish that is a joy to behold. This riveted me to the spot and is one of the finest expressions of this holding that I have encountered in over 25 years of tasting at Leflaive.

98 Points – Wine Spectator: Taut and intense, featuring lime blossom, citronella, oyster shell, hazelnut, vanilla, and pastry aromas and flavors, this white is driven by its laser-like acidity. Balanced, with a seemingly endless finish that echoes the complex flavors and leaves you wanting more.

96 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: Notes of orange oil, pear, and peach mingle with hints of nutmeg, clear honey, and buttered toast, introducing Leflaive’s 2023 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru. Full-bodied, dense, and blocky, it is broad-shouldered and multidimensional, with an unctuous attack, a deep mid-palate, and a broad, expansive finish.

Rich and powerful yet remarkably refined, with aromas of ripe pear, white peach, citrus zest, and delicate white flowers, layered with toasted hazelnut, subtle spice, and crushed limestone. The palate is full-bodied and beautifully textured, balancing luscious orchard fruit with vibrant acidity and profound mineral complexity. A long, elegant finish reveals hints of citrus, saline freshness, and finely integrated oak. A magnificent expression of Grand Cru Chardonnay with outstanding aging potential.

A. A. Badenhorst · Swartland · 2022

Chenin Blanc-led white blend | Swartland, South Africa | 750ml

In the slopes and valleys of the Paardeberg, cousins Adi and Hein Badenhorst and their extended family make wines rooted in the Swartland. The Kalmoesfontein and Jakkalsfontein farms are home to old bush vines, while the cellar team's back-to-basics approach favors old cement kuipe, basket presses, instinct, and patience.

The 2022 Family White Blend brings eight grape varieties together around a Chenin Blanc core. Yellow rose, peach, sweet sage, and crushed rock salt introduce a wine with generous texture and an exotic edge, balanced by freshness. Citrus-pith, white-tea, and smoky notes add further layers to explore at the table.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Wine Advocate, 95 Points · Vintage 2022 | The A. A. Badenhorst Family Wines 2022 Swartland Kalmoesfontein White Blend is 45% Chenin Blanc, 11% Clairette Blanche, 10% Grenache Blanc, 8% Palomino, 8% Viognier, 8% Roussanne, 5% Muscat d'Alexandrie and 5% Verdelho. I love the balance of the medium-plus mouthfeel and that hint of something exotic that picks up intensity with time. The wine starts off on a delicate note with yellow rose, peach, sweet sage and crushed rock salt. Those aromas gain intensity while the wine remains fresh and balanced all the while. This is a release of 10,000 bottles.

Wine Spectator, 92 Points | Apple seed and dried citrus pith aromas are fortified by impressions of geranium, sandalwood and white tea. Aging gracefully, this Chenin remains tightly wound, showing serious power through the energetic, smoky finish. Chenin Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Palomino, Muscat d'Alexandria and Verdelho. Best from 2027 through 2032. 100 cases imported.

Producer Description

Quietly tucked into the slopes and valleys of the Paardeberg, the Kalmoesfontein and Jakkalsfontein farms are home to over 180 hectares of old bush vines. Here, cousins Adi and Hein Badenhorst, their extended family and a hand-picked crew produce AA Badenhorst wines.

Pairing & Serving

Serve chilled, allowing the wine to open in the glass. Suggested pairings include roast chicken, grilled seafood, or a creamy mushroom dish. Wine Spectator recommends a drinking window of 2027 through 2032.

Wine Details

• Producer: A. A. Badenhorst Family Wines
• Vintage: 2022
• Region: Swartland, South Africa
• Blend: 45% Chenin Blanc, 11% Clairette Blanche, 10% Grenache Blanc, 8% Palomino, 8% Viognier, 8% Roussanne, 5% Muscat d'Alexandrie, 5% Verdelho
• Type: White wine
• Size: 750ml

Famille Ferrando · Châteauneuf-du-Pape F601 · 2023

100% Old-Vine Cinsault · Rhône Valley, France · 750ml · Special Order — Pre-Sale Price

Producer & Terroir

F601 puts Cinsault at the center of Famille Isabel Ferrando’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape story. Sourced from vines planted in 1928 in the historic Saint-Préfert F601 parcel, this limited-production cuvée offers a distinctive alternative to the appellation’s more familiar Grenache-led reds.

Since her debut vintage in 2003, Isabel Ferrando has built her work around understanding the estate’s individual terroirs. Today, working alongside her daughter Guillemette, she continues that pursuit under the Famille Isabel Ferrando name. F601 is a particularly personal expression of that vineyard focus.

Tasting Notes

Smoky black fruit, roasted herbs, licorice and Provençal spices shape an aromatic profile with a savory hint of tapenade. The medium- to full-bodied palate combines layered fruit with fine tannins, purity and finesse, as described in Jeb Dunnuck’s review below.

Winemaker Notes

Isabel Ferrando: "It took me 16 years of observation and learning to develop a deep understanding and a personal relationship with my terroir, guided by instinct and feeling. With this vintage, I have launched “F601”, the pure and absolute expression of my experience with my parcel F601 of Saint Prefert and the old-vine Cinsault, planted in 1928, a singular and unique expression. At this point in my life, I am thrilled to share my enchantment for this remarquable wine.”

100% old-vine Cinsault planted in 1928 made with whole clusters in one used demi-muid barrel. Very limited production and packaged in a special wooden box.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck, 96 Points · November 2025: "From vines planted in 1928, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape F601 (100% Cinsault) was vinified with 40% whole clusters and aged in a single amphora. It offers smoky black fruits, roasted herbs, licorice, Provençal spices, and even a hint of tapenade, showing beautiful complexity and nuance in its aromatics. Medium to full-bodied, focused, and layered, it has fine tannins, beautiful purity, and finesse. Tasted twice with consistent notes."

Food Pairings

Consider roasted duck, herb-crusted lamb, game birds, veal or wild mushroom risotto. These savory dishes complement the wine’s herbal aromatics and refined texture.

Wine Details

• Producer: Famille Ferrando
• Cuvée: F601
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC
• Region: Southern Rhône, Rhône Valley, France
• Vineyard: Saint-Préfert, F601 parcel
• Grape: 100% Cinsault
• Vines planted: 1928
• Style: Red wine
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Presentation: Special wooden box
• Availability: Special Order — Pre-Sale Price

Famille Ferrando · Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Saint Préfert · 2022

Grenache Blend · Rhône Valley, France · 750ml · Introductory Offer

#10 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2025

Producer & Terroir

Famille Isabel Ferrando, formerly known as Domaine Saint-Préfert, captures the richness, elegance and distinctive character of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. After a career in finance, Isabel Ferrando made her debut vintage in 2003, building the estate’s reputation through careful vineyard management and terroir-driven winemaking.

In 2020, the estate entered a new chapter under the name Famille Isabel Ferrando. Working alongside her daughter, Guillemette, Isabel combines traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape methods with a focus on balance, purity and elegance.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Saint Préfert Rouge is supple and generous, with ripe cherry, juicy plum and delicate lavender. Silky tannins give it a smooth, mouthfilling texture, while grilled garrigue, Mediterranean herbs and subtle spice bring savory complexity. An elegant, lingering finish balances the warmth and richness of the Southern Rhône.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Wine Spectator, 94 Points: Supple and mouthfilling, with silky tannins supporting ripe cherry, plum and delicate lavender notes. Classic grilled garrigue accents carry through the lingering finish, capturing the elegance and generosity of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Food Pairings

Pair with roasted lamb, herb-crusted beef, duck breast, grilled meats or slow-braised short ribs. Its savory herbal character also complements Mediterranean dishes, wild mushrooms and aged cheeses.

Wine Details

• Producer: Famille Ferrando
• Cuvée: Saint Préfert Rouge
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC
• Region: Southern Rhône, Rhône Valley, France
• Grapes: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre
• Style: Red wine
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Offer: Introductory Offer

Chateau Carbonnieux Pessac Leognan Rouge 2023 · Bordeaux, France

The 2023 Château Carbonnieux Pessac-Léognan Rouge is a balanced, elegant Grand Cru Classé de Graves featuring a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Known for its deep ruby color, this red wine offers aromas of black fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry, cherry) with velvety, silky tannins and notes of toasted oak.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

James Suckling, 94 Points — Tobacco, black currants, graphite and cigar box. The palate is medium-bodied, with restrained, delineated fruit and precise, focused tannins. Tight and elegant. Needs time. Better in 2028.

Jeb Dunnuck, 94 Points — A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot aged 12 months in 30% new French oak, the 2023 Château Carbonnieux is a rocking little gem of a wine that's well worth your time. Cassis, graphite, spicy wood, and smoke all shine on the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a ripe, round, layered mouthfeel, beautiful and building tannins, and a great finish. It's a nicely concentrated, classic, layered Pessac that has serious depth and length. It's going to cruise for two decades in cold cellars. Drink 2026-2046.

Wine Advocate, 93 Points — The 2023 Carbonnieux has turned out very well, revealing aromas of cassis, mulberries, flowers and spices, lifted by a discreet note of fresh licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, ample and sapid, it is enveloping, with good depth at the core framed by powdery tannins, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. Combining a gourmand profile with a classical sense of balance and structure, it represents very good value.

Producer

With its eight centuries of history, Château Carbonnieux stands as a major reference of the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Its vineyard of around one hundred hectares, owned by the Perrin family for four generations, is entirely located around the château, at the top of a remarkable gravel rise. The vines, cultivated with respect for the environment and according to sustainable practices, are dedicated to the production of dry white and red wines. This family vineyard is classified as a Grand Cru Classé de Graves for both its white and red wines. The château is open to visitors throughout the year.

Details

• Producer: Chateau Carbonnieux
• Country: France
• Region: Bordeaux
• Appellation: Pessac-Léognan, Grand Cru Classé de Graves
• Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2023
• Size: 750ml

A Beautiful Expression of Premier Cru Rosé Champagne

Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé Premier Cru Extra Brut is an elegant, beautifully expressive Grower Champagne that captures the finesse and vibrant red-fruit character of Pinot Noir grown in the Premier Cru village of Écueil, on the western slopes of the Montagne de Reims.

Produced by Géraldine Lacourte and Richard Desvignes, this sophisticated Rosé reflects generations of family winemaking tradition, meticulous vineyard care, and a commitment to expressing the distinctive character of Champagne's terroir.

The husband-and-wife team returned to the family estate in 2006, bringing a renewed focus to vineyard quality, organic farming, and carefully considered winemaking. Their approach emphasizes precision and authenticity, allowing the personality of their Premier Cru vineyards to shine through in every bottle.

Expert Ratings

Wine Advocate 91 Points: "Based on the 2021 vintage, and augmented by 45% reserve wines (mostly from 2020, along with 6% red wine from 2019), Lacourte-Godbillon’s NV Premier Cru Rosé was disgorged in June 2024 with a dosage of three grams per liter. Opening with enticing aromas of tangerine zest, red apple and red plum, it leads into a medium- to full-bodied, elegant palate underpinned by a racy spine of acidity and ample chalky structure, concluding with a delicately perfumed finish. This is a rosé Champagne of finesse rather than power." —Kristaps Karklins

Winemaking & Vineyard Character

Crafted entirely from Pinot Noir, Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé combines the richness and structure of this noble grape with the freshness and elegance of a finely balanced Champagne.

For the 2021-base Extra Brut release, the blend incorporates 45% reserve wines from the 2020 and 2019 harvests, adding depth and complexity while maintaining a lively fruit-driven character.

A small portion of Pinot Noir is vinified as red wine in oak barrels, contributing the Champagne's beautiful salmon-pink color and delicate red-fruit aromas. The balance of the wine is carefully fermented and matured to preserve freshness, texture, and purity.

Extended aging on the lees brings greater complexity and finesse to the finished Champagne, while the low dosage of just 3 grams per liter ensures a wonderfully dry, precise, and refreshing finish.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, this Champagne displays a delicate salmon-pink color with a fine, persistent stream of elegant bubbles.

The expressive bouquet opens with aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, fresh raspberries, and red currants, complemented by hints of citrus zest, delicate florals, and subtle toasted almond.

On the palate, Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé is beautifully balanced, combining generous red-fruit flavors with vibrant acidity and a refined mineral backbone.

Notes of ripe strawberry, red apple, cherry, and blood orange unfold across a fresh, rounded palate, accompanied by gentle hints of brioche, almond, and chalky minerality.

The mousse is delicate and creamy, creating a beautifully textured mouthfeel without sacrificing the wine's energy and precision.

The finish is long, dry, and exceptionally refreshing, with lingering impressions of red berries, citrus, and subtle savory complexity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

With its vibrant fruit character, elegant acidity, and refined structure, Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé is wonderfully versatile at the table.

It pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, salmon tartare, seared tuna, grilled shrimp, and delicate seafood appetizers. Its Pinot Noir character also makes it an excellent companion to roasted poultry, duck breast, and charcuterie.

For cheese lovers, serve alongside creamy Brie, Camembert, fresh goat cheese, or mature Cantal.

For an elegant seasonal pairing, enjoy this Rosé with fresh strawberries, a summer tomato and burrata salad, or a delicate red-fruit dessert.

Serving Temperature: 46–50°F (8–10°C). Serve in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to appreciate its aromatic complexity and fine bubbles.

Perfect For: Romantic dinners, celebrations, elegant entertaining, Champagne tastings, special occasions, and anyone seeking a beautifully crafted, small-production Rosé Champagne.

Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé Premier Cru Extra Brut is a captivating expression of 100% Pinot Noir—combining vibrant red-fruit aromas, exceptional freshness, refined minerality, and the unmistakable elegance of Premier Cru Champagne.

Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé 1er Cru Extra Brut 750ml

Region: Champagne, Montagne de Reims, France
Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
Producer: Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon
Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Village: Écueil, Premier Cru
Style: Rosé Champagne, Extra Brut, Grower Champagne
Dosage: 3 g/L (2021-base release)
Bottle Size: 750ml

An Exceptional Expression of Premier Cru Champagne

Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Terroirs d'Écueil Premier Cru Extra Brut is an elegant, terroir-driven Grower Champagne that beautifully captures the distinctive character of Écueil, a Premier Cru village on the western slopes of the Montagne de Reims.

Crafted by Géraldine Lacourte and Richard Desvignes, this exceptional Champagne reflects generations of family winemaking tradition, meticulous vineyard management, and a deep respect for the land. The estate's roots date back to 1968, when Géraldine's parents, Jean-Guy Lacourte and Claudine Godbillon, established their Champagne house. In 2006, Géraldine and Richard left their professional careers to return to the family vineyards, bringing renewed energy and a commitment to producing expressive, site-specific Champagnes.

Terroirs d'Écueil is the estate's signature cuvée, crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir (85%), complemented by Chardonnay (15%). The grapes come from family-owned Premier Cru vineyards, where a distinctive combination of clay, sand, and chalk contributes to the wine's remarkable balance of richness, freshness, and mineral precision.

The Champagne incorporates carefully selected reserve wines, adding depth and complexity while preserving the vibrant fruit character of the current harvest. Aged extensively on its lees before release and finished with a minimal dosage, this Extra Brut offers exceptional purity, structure, and elegance.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, Terroirs d'Écueil displays a beautiful pale golden hue with a fine, persistent stream of delicate bubbles.

The expressive bouquet opens with fresh citrus, ripe orchard fruits, and subtle red berry notes, followed by delicate aromas of toasted brioche, sweet almond, and a touch of mineral complexity.

On the palate, this Champagne is vibrant, precise, and beautifully textured. The richness of Pinot Noir brings depth and generous fruit, while Chardonnay contributes freshness and finesse. Flavors of crisp apple, lemon zest, ripe pear, and subtle toasted pastry unfold across a lively, mineral-driven palate.

The finish is long, clean, and refreshingly dry, with an elegant interplay of citrus acidity, delicate salinity, and lingering mineral notes.

Professional Ratings

93 Points James Suckling: This impressive NV champagne shows what generosity and charm pinot noir is capable of in champagne. Impressive depth, but also lovely candied-citrus juiciness. Then comes a long and elegant, chalky finish. A cuvee of 85% pinot noir and 15% chardonnay, based on the 2018 vintage with 35% reserve wines from earlier vintages. It’s actually entitled to the Extra Brut designation, thanks to very low dosage. Sustainable. Drink now.

91 Wine Spectator: Racy acidity firms this tightly knit Champagne, while the fine texture softens some of the angularity and helps to show the range of the white raspberry, ground ginger, chalk and pink grapefruit pith flavors. Balanced overall, this should open nicely with short-term cellaring. Disgorged October 2016. Best after 2019. 3,300 cases made, 500 cases imported.

Food Pairing Suggestions

An outstanding aperitif Champagne, Terroirs d'Écueil is equally impressive at the table. Its vibrant acidity, fine bubbles, and refined structure make it a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes.

Pair it with freshly shucked oysters, shrimp cocktail, scallops, sushi, or delicate seafood preparations. It also complements roast chicken, creamy mushroom dishes, and soft-ripened cheeses such as Brie and Camembert.

For an elegant appetizer, serve alongside smoked salmon, delicate gougères, or freshly baked blinis with crème fraîche.

Ideal For: Celebrations, elegant dinners, Champagne enthusiasts, special occasions, and anyone seeking an authentic expression of small-production Grower Champagne.

Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Terroirs d'Écueil Premier Cru Extra Brut is a beautifully crafted Champagne that combines the richness of Pinot Noir, the finesse of Chardonnay, and the unmistakable mineral character of the Montagne de Reims. A sophisticated and memorable expression of its Premier Cru origins.

Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon "Terroirs d'Écueil" 1er Cru Extra Brut

Region: Champagne, Montagne de Reims, France
Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
Producer: Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon
Grapes: 85% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay
Style: Extra Brut, Grower Champagne
Dosage: Approximately 3–3.5 g/L

Pali Wine Co. · Huntington Pinot Noir · Santa Barbara County · 2023

Huntington is Pali Wine Co.'s generous, fruit-forward Pinot Noir, sourced entirely from organically farmed blocks at Pali Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills. Seven Pinot Noir clones, harvested and fermented separately, come together in a wine built around bright fruit, savory detail and an approachable texture.

Strawberry, raspberry and cherry aromas mingle with black tea and baking spice. The palate brings dried strawberry and Bing cherry alongside mushroom and graphite, with rounded tannins, balanced acidity and a polished finish. Ten months in French oak, 30% new, adds another layer to this estate-grown Pinot.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

Wine Enthusiast · 91 Points: Bright cherry and strawberry aromas lead into an earthy rhubarb element on the nose of this bottling. The palate's candied cherry flavors are lifted by eucalyptus and menthol elements.

Winemaker Description

Pali Wine Co.: Huntington is our Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir, sourced entirely from organically farmed blocks at Pali Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills. A blend of seven clones, each harvested, fermented, and aged separately, it’s crafted to showcase bright fruit, savory nuance, and effortless drinkability. Ruby red in the glass, the wine opens with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry layered with black tea and baking spice. The palate is mouth-filling yet supple, offering flavors of dried strawberry, fresh Bing cherry, mushroom, and graphite. Soft, rounded tannins and a long, polished finish make ‘Huntington’ a versatile Pinot Noir built for both the table and everyday enjoyment.

Producer Notes · Style & Winemaking

Pali Wine Co.: Our entry-level Pinot Noir, and the most generous and fruit-forward of the range. All estate fruit from Pali Vineyard, built to be plush, ripe, and approachable, a Pinot you can open and enjoy tonight. A blend of seven clones fermented separately, then aged in French oak for polish. Soft, round, and easygoing.

Farming, Fermentation & Composition: 100% estate-grown Pinot Noir from Pali Vineyard, organically farmed. A blend of seven Pinot Noir clones, each fermented separately and hand harvested, pressed at dryness before blending. Aged ten months in French oak, 30% new. Made in a riper, rounder style than our other Pinots.

Tasting Notes: Bright ruby-red. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, black tea, and baking spice on the nose. Dried strawberry, Bing cherry, mushroom, and graphite on the palate, with soft tannins and balanced acidity through a polished finish.

Our Take: This is our most approachable Pinot, the one to reach for if you just want a really tasty glass tonight. It's generous and fruit-forward, all strawberry and cherry, with soft tannins and a little baking spice from some new oak, so it's plush and easy rather than lean. It's all estate fruit off our Sta. Rita Hills vineyard, blended from seven different clones to give it depth. We've made this wine since 2008, it's kind of our signature Pinot. Nothing to overthink here, just open it and enjoy.

Food Pairings

Follow the producer's pairing suggestions of roasted pork tenderloin, grilled portobello mushrooms or pomegranate-roasted chicken. The wine's combination of fruit and savory notes offers several directions for the dinner table.

Wine Details

• Producer: Pali Wine Co.
• Cuvée: Huntington
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Santa Barbara County, California
• Vineyard: Pali Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills
• Country: United States
• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir, a blend of seven clones
• Farming: Organically farmed estate vineyard, as described by the producer
• Harvest: Hand harvested
• Fermentation: Clones fermented separately; pressed at dryness before blending
• Aging: Ten months in French oak, 30% new
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Review: Wine Enthusiast 91 points

Generous Santa Barbara Pinot Noir with estate-grown character and an easy place at the table.

Domaine Faiveley · Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru · 2022

Pinot Noir | Côte de Nuits, Burgundy, France | 750ml

Pre-Arrival · Introductory Offer · 

Producer & Terroir

Founded in 1825 in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley brings generations of Burgundian experience to this historic Grand Cru. Erwan Faiveley and Technical Director Jérôme Flous combine traditional craftsmanship with precise vineyard management and winemaking.

Originally developed by Cistercian monks beginning in the 12th century, Clos de Vougeot is a walled vineyard in the heart of the Côte de Nuits. Faiveley's approximately 1.27 hectares are spread across three parcels: two extending from the lower vineyard toward the middle, and a third near the Château du Clos de Vougeot. Vines planted between 1940 and 2013 and varied soils contribute depth, structure and aromatic complexity.

Winemaker Description

Winemaker's Notes, as supplied in the listing: An extraordinary expression of one of Burgundy's most legendary Grand Cru vineyards, Domaine Faiveley Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2022 combines remarkable power, concentration and refinement with the elegance that defines the finest Pinot Noir of the Côte de Nuits.

Deep ruby-red in color, this magnificent Burgundy reveals a complex and captivating bouquet of ripe black cherries, blackberries and dark raspberries, interwoven with delicate aromas of roses, violets, warm spice and subtle toasted oak.

On the palate, the wine is rich, full-bodied and beautifully layered, offering concentrated dark fruit, fine smoky oak nuances and a remarkable depth of flavor. Its initial supple, velvety texture gradually gives way to powerful yet polished tannins, supported by vibrant acidity and a firm mineral backbone.

The finish is exceptionally long, revealing lingering notes of dark berries, spice and elegant earthiness. A profoundly structured and age-worthy Pinot Noir that promises to develop extraordinary complexity over time.

Expert Review & Ratings

James Suckling, 96 Points: Very fleshy, suave and fragrant. This has excellent concentration and beautiful harmony of ripe fruit with fine toasty, smoky oak plus ample velvety tannins.

Wine Spectator, 95 Points: Score supplied in the existing listing; review text not provided.

Winemaking

Meticulous fruit selection and controlled Burgundian vinification preserve the individuality of the Grand Cru parcels. Fermentation and gentle extraction develop aromatic complexity and refined tannins, while maturation in French oak adds toasted spice and texture.

Pairing & Serving

Pair with roasted duck breast, beef Wellington, venison, rack of lamb or truffle risotto. Wild mushrooms, roasted game and aged Comté also complement its dark fruit and earthy complexity. Serve at 60–64°F (16–18°C). Its structure makes it a candidate for further bottle aging.

Wine Details

• Producer: Domaine Faiveley
• Vintage: 2022
• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy, Côte de Nuits
• Appellation: Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru AOC
• Classification: Grand Cru
• Estate holdings: Approximately 1.27 hectares (3.14 acres), across three parcels
• Vine plantings: 1940, 1974, 1980, 1981 and 2013
• Style: Dry red wine
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Ratings in the supplied listing: James Suckling, 96 Points; Wine Spectator, 95 Points
• Availability: Pre-arrival introductory offer; ETA October 21, 2026

A structured Grand Cru for Burgundy lovers drawn to concentrated dark fruit, floral complexity and velvety tannins.

Domaine Faiveley · Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes · 2022

Pinot Noir | Côte de Nuits, Burgundy, France | 750ml

Pre-Arrival · Introductory Offer · Estimated Arrival: October 21, 2026.

Producer & Terroir

Founded in 1825 in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley brings generations of Burgundian experience to this old-vine Gevrey-Chambertin. Erwan Faiveley and Technical Director Jérôme Flous combine traditional craftsmanship with precise vineyard management, emphasizing purity, balance and vineyard character.

Vieilles Vignes, meaning "old vines," brings together approximately 20 parcels covering nearly 10 hectares in Gevrey-Chambertin. The vines average more than 45 years of age, with some planted as early as 1945. Limestone and clay-rich soils provide the setting for a Pinot Noir with concentrated fruit, structure and savory complexity.

Winemaker Description

A magnificent expression of old-vine Pinot Noir from one of Burgundy's most celebrated villages, Domaine Faiveley Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes 2022 combines impressive concentration, refined structure and the unmistakable elegance of the Côte de Nuits.

Deep ruby-red in color, this beautifully crafted Burgundy opens with expressive aromas of black cherries, ripe raspberries and wild blackberries, accented by subtle notes of earth, spice and woodland undergrowth.

On the palate, concentrated dark fruit meets fine, powdery tannins and refreshing acidity. Rich and structured yet beautifully balanced, the wine reveals layers of ripe berries, delicate oak spice and savory mineral nuances, leading to a long, precise and elegant finish.

A classic Gevrey-Chambertin that offers generous fruit and immediate appeal while possessing the depth and structure for rewarding cellaring.

Expert Review

Wine Spectator, 91 Points: An intensely flavored red, featuring cherry, raspberry, boysenberry and earth flavors. Firm, with a light dusting of powdery tannins on the well-defined finish. Best from 2027 through 2038. 433 cases imported.

Winemaking & Aging

Hand-harvested grapes are meticulously sorted before carefully managed fermentation and maceration. Approximately 14 months in French oak barrels, with 20–30% new oak, adds subtle spice and texture while preserving the character of the old-vine fruit.

Pairing & Serving

Pair with beef bourguignon, roasted duck breast, filet mignon, grilled lamb or venison. Wild mushroom risotto, slow-braised short ribs and mature French cheeses also complement its depth and savory notes. Serve at 57–61°F (14–16°C). Wine Spectator recommends drinking from 2027 through 2038.

Wine Details

• Producer: Domaine Faiveley
• Vintage: 2022
• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy, Côte de Nuits
• Appellation: Gevrey-Chambertin AOC
• Classification: Village
• Cuvée: Vieilles Vignes
• Vines: Average age more than 45 years; some plantings date to 1945
• Vineyards: Approximately 20 parcels covering nearly 10 hectares
• Soils: Limestone and clay-rich soils
• Style: Dry red wine
• Alcohol: 13%
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Aging: Approximately 14 months in French oak, 20–30% new
• Rating: Wine Spectator, 91 Points
• Recommended drinking window: 2027–2038, Wine Spectator
• Availability: Pre-arrival introductory offer; ETA October 21, 2026

A structured old-vine Gevrey-Chambertin, balancing concentrated berry fruit, earthy complexity and fine, powdery tannins.

Terrazas de los Andes · Uco Valley, Mendoza · Chardonnay Reserva 2025

Terrazas de los Andes Chardonnay Reserva comes from El Peral and Gualtallary in Argentina’s Uco Valley. The producer’s story began more than 30 years ago with a vision to explore the cool, high-altitude terraces of Mendoza and capture a refined expression of the Andes.

Tasting Notes

Fresh apple, pear and lime meet delicate floral and herbal notes in this expressive Chardonnay. A creamy mid-palate is balanced by vibrant acidity, with a persistent, lightly mineral finish that keeps the wine bright and elegant.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2025 

James Suckling, 92 Points (review vintage not specified in the supplied text): Chalky, fresh and expressive on the nose, with lots of sliced apples, limes and a touch of eggshells. Medium-bodied with good acidity and a creamy texture. Elegant and lightly mineral in the fairly long finish. No malolactic fermentation. Drink now. Screw cap.

Vinous Media, 91 Points: The 2025 Chardonnay Reserva, from El Peral and Gualtallary (Uco Valley), opens with a lightly floral profile, showing pear, soft green apple and delicate herbal notes. Fresh and moderately textured, it combines a creamy mid-palate with vibrant acidity that brings energy and lift. It finishes with persistence and intensity of flavor. An engaging Chardonnay with clarity and drive.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled. Suggested pairings include roast chicken, grilled fish, creamy pasta and mild cheeses, dishes that complement the wine’s fresh acidity and creamy texture.

Wine Details

• Producer: Terrazas de los Andes
• Wine: Chardonnay Reserva
• Vintage: 2025
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Origin: El Peral and Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Closure: Screw cap

A bright, textured Chardonnay that brings the freshness of the Andes to the table.

Tesselaarsdal · Chardonnay · 2022

Tesselaarsdal Chardonnay 2022 is a cool-climate South African white with a silky texture, crisp acidity, and an elegant, lingering finish. White pear and lemon toast bring depth to its medium-bodied palate, balancing rounded richness with refreshing lift.

Producer & Heritage

Tesselaarsdal was founded in 2015 by long-standing Hamilton Russell Vineyards employee Berene Sauls. It is named after the historic Overberg farming hamlet of Tesselaarsdal—not far from the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge wine appellation—where Berene was born, a descendant of the freed slaves who were bequeathed the land of the Tesselaarsdal valley by former Dutch East India Company soldier Johannes Tesselaar’s widow in 1832.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling, 91 Points: Sliced pears, apples, wet stones and pastries on the nose. Medium-bodied, bright and clean, with savory, flinty elements underlining the fresh fruit.

Wine Enthusiast, 91 Points: This lively white hails from high-altitude vineyards in the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, a cool-climate region. It exhibits inviting green and citrus aromas and has an oily texture and energized acidity backing flavors of white peach and linden tea. Bright notes of lime run through the palate.

Wine Spectator, 91 Points: Crisp and appealing, with a lightly chalky texture carrying well-meshed flavors of ripe Gala apple, slivered almond, pickled ginger and stony mineral. Clean-cut finish, with a waft of white blossoms.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 90+ Points: Clean, zesty and citrus-driven, the nose of the 2022 Chardonnay is fresh with hints of oak and plenty of lemon skin and yellow apple. Medium-bodied and with 13% alcohol, the palate is fresh, food-friendly and expressive before ending with a zesty, mineral-driven finish. This little beauty was made with a mix of amphora and oak to bring out and balance dusty minerality with soft, oaky essences. Rating: 90+

Producer Notes · Historical Estate Background

The following producer account is preserved from the supplied listing. Its vineyard plans describe the estate’s aspirations at the time of writing, rather than a verified current planting or harvest status.

The Present
Fifteen years after starting my career in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Anthony Hamilton Russell offered me the wonderful opportunity to join the rest of the Hemel-en-Aarde area as a producer. Today, with the expert assistance of Hamilton Russell Vineyards wine maker, Emul Ross and the Hamilton Russell Vineyards team, I wholly own Tesselaarsdal Wines.

Grape purchases are secured with Babylon Vineyards, Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge (unirrigated vineyards)—until Tesselaarsdal’s vineyards is secured and ready for harvest. I will focus production on Pinot Noir as our climate and soil type is best suited for this cultivar.

The Future
The Tesselaarsdal Wines dream is to create wines from its own vineyards in Tesselaarsdal, Overberg. In 2019 we acquired 16 hectares which will be planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes

Subtle white pear and lemon toast notes meet a silky, medium-bodied palate. Rounded richness is balanced by crisp acidity, with an elegant finish that lingers. For wine lovers seeking freshness alongside texture, this 2022 Chardonnay offers an appealing balance of both.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled with grilled fish, roast chicken, or creamy mushroom pasta, or share a bottle over an unhurried dinner.

Wine Details

• Producer: Tesselaarsdal
• Founder: Berene Sauls
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2022
• Region: Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge
• Country: South Africa
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Style: Cool-climate, medium-bodied white

Marqués de Pluma · Crianza · Ribera del Duero · 2021

Marqués de Pluma Crianza 2021 is a Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero, Spain, identified in this listing with Pesquera de Duero. Presented in a 750ml bottle, it is an option for exploring Spanish Tempranillo at the table.

Origin & Style

The listing identifies this wine as a Crianza from Ribera del Duero, with Tempranillo as its grape variety.

Expert Review

James Suckling, 93 Points: A full and layered red with a deep core of dark fruit and hints of ground cloves, hazelnuts and sandalwood. Structured and firm, with chewy tannins. It’s rich but balanced, showing persistence and focus. Lingering finish. Better after 2025.

Pairing Suggestions

As general serving suggestions for Tempranillo, consider roast lamb, grilled meats, mushroom dishes, or aged cheese. These are style-based pairing ideas rather than producer tasting notes.

Details

• Wine: Marqués de Pluma
• Designation: Crianza
• Vintage: 2021
• Grape: Tempranillo
• Appellation: Ribera del Duero
• Location named in listing: Pesquera de Duero
• Country: Spain
• Bottle size: 750ml

Château des Jacques · Moulin-à-Vent · Clos de Rochegrès · 2023

Clos de Rochegrès is a single-vineyard Gamay from old vines spanning 24 acres in Moulin-à-Vent. Shallow granitic soils over hard bedrock provide the setting for a generous wine with floral character, mineral nuances, and elegant, lasting tannins.

Producer & Terroir

Château des Jacques approaches each vineyard parcel according to its history, soils, location, and vines rather than applying a single dogmatic method. The estate’s existing account describes 69 hectares primarily in Moulin-à-Vent, Morgon, and Fleurie, with continual questioning and improvement at the center of its work.

Winemaking

A portion of the grapes is destemmed before vinification in closed vats with pumping over. The wine then matures in oak barrels for 10–11 months.

Tasting Notes

Rose and peony aromas and flavors meet a mineral accent. The palate is generous, with elegant, long-lasting tannins. The accompanying review highlights black fruit, bright acidity, white pepper, and a saline touch on the finish.

Expert Review

Kenna Wells, Wine Advocate, 91 Points · 2023: Full-bodied and with bright acidity, the wine is sappy with black-fruited flavors, toned and lifted by hints of white pepper and a touch of salt, especially noticeable on the finish. The tannins are sizable yet well-spaced, contributing to the wine’s considerable depth.

Pairing & Cellaring

Pair with red meats in sauce, venison, other game, or cheeses. The supplied product notes suggest enjoyment now or cellaring for 10–20 years, with appropriate storage.

Details

• Producer: Château des Jacques
• Vineyard: Clos de Rochegrès
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Moulin-à-Vent
• Region: Beaujolais, France
• Grape: 100% Gamay
• Vines: Old vines
• Soils: Shallow granite over hard bedrock
• Aging: 10–11 months in oak barrels
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Review: Wine Advocate, 91 Points