90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

Kono Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2024 — Marlborough, New Zealand

Kono is a New Zealand wine brand with deep roots in the Māori community — owned by Wakatu Incorporation, one of New Zealand’s largest Māori-owned businesses, with ancestral connections to the top of the South Island stretching back centuries. Their Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from the sun-drenched Wairau and Awatere valleys, where the combination of intense sunlight, cool nights, and free-draining soils produces the region’s signature style: vivid, aromatic, and unmistakably fresh.

Bart Hopkins of 67 Wine writes | The 2024 is a textbook Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc — and then some. The nose bursts with citrus and tropical fruit: lime, kiwi, passion fruit, guava, and lemon zest. On the palate, luscious fruit flavors are balanced by notes of currant leaf and fresh bell pepper, with zesty acidity, underlying minerality, and a long, dry, persistent finish. Wine Spectator praised its “crisp and vibrant” lemon, pear, and apple flavors with notes of lemon verbena and fresh ginger.

Wine Spectator — “Lemon, pear and apple flavors are crisp and vibrant, with notes of lemon verbena, lemon thyme and fresh ginger.”

• Producer: Kono (Wakatu Incorporation), Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
• Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
• Closure: Screwcap
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lime, kiwi, passion fruit, guava, lemon zest, currant leaf, bell pepper, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, goat cheese, Thai cuisine, green salads, sushi

A benchmark Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc at an everyday price — Kono delivers everything you want from New Zealand’s most iconic white.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021

James Suckling 92 Points | A complex and fascinating Rioja with aromas of wet earth, dried meat, tea leaf, and dark fruit that follow through to a medium-bodied palate with firm, silky tannins and a flavorful finish. A blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo.

About Cerro Añón Crianza

Bodegas Olarra is one of Rioja's most storied producers, and Cerro Añón is their flagship label — named after the iconic hill that overlooks their estate in Logroño. The Crianza is aged a minimum of 12 months in American and French oak barrels, followed by additional bottle aging, delivering the classic earthy complexity and structured elegance that defines traditional Rioja.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in color with aromas of dark cherry, dried herbs, wet earth, and subtle oak spice. The palate is medium-bodied with flavors of red and black fruit, leather, and tea leaf, supported by firm yet silky tannins. The finish is long, savory, and satisfying.

Food Pairings

A classic match for roasted lamb, grilled chorizo, Manchego cheese, slow-cooked beef stew, and hearty Spanish tapas. A versatile and food-friendly Rioja Crianza.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2021
Region: Rioja, Spain
Appellation: DOCa Rioja
Classification: Crianza
Grape Varieties: Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo
Producer: Bodegas Olarra
Style: Red Wine, Dry, Medium-Bodied
Aging: 12+ months in American & French oak

Domaine Gilbert Picq Chablis — Burgundy 2024

Domaine Gilbert Picq is one of Chablis' most respected traditional estates, and a benchmark producer for the appellation's purest, most mineral-driven style. This village-level Chablis is crafted without any oak contact — fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel to let the Kimmeridgian limestone soils speak without interference. The result is quintessential Chablis: steely, focused, and mineral-laden, with the flinty seashell essence that only this corner of Burgundy can produce. Burghound awarded it a Purple Heart Outstanding Top Value distinction.

The nose is precise and inviting: green apple, lemon zest, white flowers, and a signature streak of wet stone and oyster shell. On the palate, it is lean and focused with vibrant acidity, pure Chardonnay fruit, and a long, saline, mineral finish that lingers beautifully. Extremely age-worthy, it rewards patience — but is equally compelling in its vibrant youth.

Burghound — Purple Heart Outstanding Top Value — "Quintessential Chablis with steely focus and mineral precision."

• Producer: Domaine Gilbert Picq, Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chablis AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Soils: Kimmeridgian limestone
• Vinification: Unoaked — stainless steel fermentation and aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, lemon zest, white flowers, wet stone, oyster shell, saline mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2032
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, seafood, fresh goat cheese, sushi

A Burghound Purple Heart Outstanding Top Value — Gilbert Picq's Chablis is the definitive expression of unoaked Burgundian Chardonnay at an honest price.

Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023 — Paso Robles, California

Daou Vineyards is one of Paso Robles’ most ambitious estates, founded by brothers Georges and Daniel Daou on a dramatic hilltop site in the Adelaida District — one of the appellation’s coolest, most limestone-rich growing areas. Since their first vintage, Daou has pursued a singular vision: to produce Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals Napa Valley at a fraction of the price. The 2023 vintage continues that mission with a wine of genuine complexity and cellar-worthy structure.

The 2023 opens with heady aromas of black plum, Zante currant, frankincense, and sage, followed by trailing scents of blackberry, cardamom, and espresso bean with accents of vanilla, saddle leather, and cinnamon toast. On the palate, fine-grained tannins provide structure for rich flavors of black cherry, raspberry, and mulberry, with secondary layers of black olive, sandalwood, and dark chocolate. The finish is velvety and long, with lingering impressions of chocolate-covered cherry, dried herbs, and toasty oak. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points, noting “clean lines of cherry, toasted wood, red flower and a pinch of thyme.”

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “The palate pairs familiar blackberry flavors with mocha spice. A satisfying, widely available bottling.”

• Producer: Daou Vineyards, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Paso Robles AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black plum, Zante currant, blackberry, cardamom, espresso, vanilla, dark chocolate, saddle leather, velvety finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, rich pasta, aged cheddar, hearty roasts — serve at 60–65°F

Paso Robles Cabernet at its most compelling — Daou punches well above its price.

Château Blaignan — Médoc Cru Bourgeois 2019

With a grape-growing tradition stretching back to the 14th century, Château Blaignan is one of the Médoc’s most storied estates. The 2019 vintage — widely regarded as one of Bordeaux’s finest in a generation — showcases everything this historic property does best: ripe, structured fruit, velvet tannins, and a beautifully balanced finish that rewards both immediate drinking and patient cellaring.

The nose is intensely fruity with pronounced blackcurrant, black cherry, and a hint of spice. On the palate, dark cherry and plum compote lead the way, with tobacco, savory notes, and a pretty iron hint on the focused, fine-grained finish. Full-bodied with structure and elegance in equal measure.

Wine Enthusiast 90 • Wine Spectator 89 — “Drink now through 2029.”

• Producer: Château Blaignan, Médoc, Bordeaux
• Vintage: 2019
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois, Médoc
• Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc
• Aging: 18 months in vats and oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, black cherry, plum compote, tobacco, spice, iron finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2029 (3–12 years from harvest)
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck, beef bourguignon, aged hard cheeses

Seven centuries of terroir knowledge in every bottle — Château Blaignan is a Médoc classic at a Cru Bourgeois price.

James Suckling 95 Points | A juicy and delicious wine with aromas of black cherries, walnuts, flint, graphite and matchsticks. Medium-bodied with creamy and refined tannins and a pretty finish. Inky aftertaste with some iodine. 60% merlot and 40% sangivoese. Drink or hold. 

Winemaker Description

Lucente is the result of a careful selection of the estate’s vineyards particularly suited for the production of a fruity and very pleasant wine. Like Luce, it is made from Sangiovese and Merlot, with Merlot prevailing in the blend.

About Luce della Vite

Luce della Vite — “Light of the Vine” — is one of Tuscany’s most celebrated Super Tuscan estates, born from a visionary partnership between the Frescobaldi family and Robert Mondavi in 1993. Based in Montalcino, the Tenuta Luce estate produces wines that bridge the Old and New World: blending the structure and earthiness of Sangiovese with the richness and suppleness of Merlot. Lucente is the estate’s second wine — sharing the same vineyards and winemaking philosophy as the flagship Luce, but crafted for earlier enjoyment and exceptional everyday value. At under $25, it offers a genuine window into one of Italy’s most prestigious estates.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, wild boar ragù, truffle pasta, roasted lamb, and aged Pecorino Toscano. Decant 30 minutes before serving.

Product Details

• Producer: Luce della Vite (Tenuta Luce — Frescobaldi)
• Appellation: Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
• Blend: Merlot & Sangiovese (Merlot dominant)
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Medium-to-full-bodied, fruit-forward Super Tuscan blend
• Drink: Now–2030
• Format: 750ml

Benton Lane Estate Pinot Noir — Willamette Valley, Oregon 2023

Benton Lane is one of Oregon's most respected estate Pinot Noir producers, farming sustainably in the Willamette Valley since 1988. The estate vineyards sit in the foothills of the Coast Range in the southern Willamette Valley, where diverse microclimates, volcanic Jory soils, and a long, cool growing season create ideal conditions for world-class Pinot Noir. Now part of the Huneeus Vintners family — the team behind Quintessa and Flowers — Benton Lane continues to produce estate-grown Pinot Noir of exceptional purity and elegance. The 2023 Estate bottling represents the full expression of the estate's best blocks, delivering benchmark Willamette Valley character at an accessible price.

The nose is pretty and inviting: pure ripe raspberries, fresh floral perfume, wet stones, and pine. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and elegant, floating with fine tannins and a lovely, even finish — a breath of fresh air. Holiday spice, toast, and brown sugar layer over red cherry and forest floor, with concentrated, earthy flavors framed by soft, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity on the long, spicy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points — "Pretty on opening, with pure notes of ripe raspberries, fresh floral perfume, wet stones, and pine. Medium-bodied, elegant, and floating on the palate, with fine tannins and a lovely, even finish. A highly charming and approachable wine — a breath of fresh air from the Benton-Lane team." (Vintage 2023). 

Wine Advocate 90 Points — "Opens with scents of holiday spice, toast, and brown sugar over red cherry and forest floor aromas. The medium-bodied palate offers concentrated, earthy flavors framed by soft, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity, with a long, spicy finish." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Benton Lane Winery, Southern Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Owner: Huneeus Vintners (Quintessa, Flowers)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA, Oregon
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Farming: Sustainable, 100% estate-grown
• Soils: Volcanic Jory
• Style: Medium-Bodied, Elegant, Terroir-Driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, red cherry, forest floor, holiday spice, wet stones, pine, chalky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, herb-roasted chicken, soft cheeses, charcuterie
• Serve: Slightly chilled, 58–62°F

91pts Dunnuck, 90pts Wine Advocate — Benton Lane Estate is benchmark Willamette Valley Pinot Noir at under $25. It doesn't get better than this.

Crisp, Tropical & Effortlessly Refreshing

Frenzy Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is New Zealand's signature white at its most expressive — vibrant, aromatic, and built for warm-weather sipping. The 2025 vintage delivered ideal growing conditions, yielding wines that are textbook Marlborough: punchy, fruit-forward, and irresistibly fresh.

The nose bursts with pink grapefruit, passionfruit, papaya, kiwi, and a whisper of lemongrass. On the palate, a soft, creamy entry gives way to layers of tropical and citrus fruit, finishing with a mouthwatering, crisp snap that keeps you coming back for another sip.

Crafted from a carefully selected blend of Marlborough's finest Sauvignon Blanc vineyards, Frenzy is fermented at cool temperatures to lock in purity of fruit and the unmistakable essence of the region's terroir.

• Wine Enthusiast: 88 Points — Best Buy
• Wine Spectator: 90 Points
• Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
• Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2025
• Size: 750ml | Screwcap

"Floral and fruity — lime blossom, passionfruit and pink grapefruit — crisp, balanced, easy-to-sip Savvy B for warm weather days." — BEST BUY - Christina Pickard, Wine Enthusiast

Critical Acclaim – Vintage Reference (2021)

• Wine Enthusiast – 91 Points | “A layer of chalk and cocoa coats the blueberry, cassis and violet flavors. Silky and complex, with great purity and a long loam-tinged finish.”

Critical Acclaim – Previous Vintage Reference (2020)

• James Suckling – 93 Points | “Perfumed aromas of dried roses, red berry fruit and licorice. Darker mocha notes too. Medium-bodied yet deep, with dark minerals and spices accompanying fresh berry fruit. Fine and tight tannins. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification.”

Tasting Notes

Juicy and vibrant with aromas of fresh cherry, pomegranate, plum, and lightly roasted herbs, alongside dried roses and violet. The palate is mineral-fresh and cool, with lively acidity, a remarkable inner tension, and fine, earthy tannins. Transparent, clear, and intensely drinkable — a Blaufränkisch of real precision and character.

About the Wine

Nittnaus is one of Burgenland’s most respected biodynamic producers, farming with Respekt certification — Austria’s most rigorous biodynamic standard. The Kalk und Schiefer (“Limestone and Slate”) Blaufränkisch is sourced from vineyards in and around Jois am Leithagebirge, where the distinctive limestone and slate soils impart a cool minerality and inner tension to the wine. After manual harvesting and sorting, the grapes are fermented spontaneously in wooden vats and aged in used Tonneaux after slow basket pressing.

Food Pairing

Excellent with roasted duck, venison, lamb chops, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses. Serve slightly cool at 16–17°C.

Product Details

• Appellation: Burgenland, Austria
• Varietal: Blaufränkisch 100%
• Farming: Biodynamic – Respekt Certified
• Soils: Limestone & Slate (Kalk und Schiefer)
• Aging: Used Tonneaux
• Vintage: 2021
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Nittnaus

Diatom Chardonnay — Santa Barbara County 2024

Greg Brewer's Diatom project is built on a single, radical idea: subtraction. No oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation. No extended aging. Just 100% Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County, fermented and aged six months in stainless steel, stripped of everything that typically softens, butters, or blurs the grape. What remains is electric — a wine that tastes like the soil and the sea. The name itself is a clue: diatomaceous earth, the plankton fossil-rich geology beneath Santa Barbara's vineyards, is the terroir this wine is designed to express. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 94 points and called it "a no-brainer purchase." Wine Spectator followed at 93, James Suckling at 93, Wine Enthusiast at 92, and Wine Advocate at 90. Across the board, the verdict is the same: this is one of California's most precise and honest Chardonnays.

The nose is vivid and pure: exotic citrus, minty herbs, oyster shell, honeydew rind, lime candy, and a whisper of sea spray. On the palate, it is sleek and taut — ripe pear, ginger, pomelo, and brisk lime zest coiled around a mouthwatering thread of acidity. Salinity and minerals run through the finish alongside springtime blossoms and a lingering kick of melon pith. It gains weight and richness with time in the glass without ever losing its electric freshness.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 • Wine Spectator 93 • James Suckling 93 • Wine Enthusiast 92 • Wine Advocate 90 — "A no-brainer purchase for those who love Santa Barbara County Chardonnay."

• Producer: Diatom (Greg Brewer), Santa Barbara County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Santa Barbara County
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation and aging — no oak, no malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 6 months, stainless steel
• Style: Unoaked, crisp, mineral-driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, oyster shell, lime zest, sea spray, pear, ginger, pomelo, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled halibut, ceviche, fresh goat cheese, sushi

A 94-point unoaked Chardonnay at an honest price — Diatom is the benchmark for what Santa Barbara Chardonnay can be when nothing gets in the way.

Ruinart Champagne Brut Blanc de Blancs NV — Reims, Champagne

Ruinart is the oldest established Champagne house, founded in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart in Reims. For nearly three centuries, the house has been synonymous with Chardonnay-driven Champagne of exceptional finesse and elegance — and the Blanc de Blancs is their purest expression of that philosophy. Sourced from the Côtes des Blancs, Montagne de Reims, and Sézanne, this 100% Chardonnay cuvée captures the full spectrum of what the grape can achieve in Champagne: vivid, precise, and endlessly refined.

The NV opens with scents of citrus zest, green apple, lemon (fresh and candied), sliced pear, white flowers, and fresh bread. On the palate it is medium to full-bodied, pillowy yet incisive, with a vibrant core of fruit, brisk acidity, and a mouth-filling mousse. Steeped apricot, candied ginger, kumquat, toast point, and salted Marcona almond layer through the mid-palate, with a long, minerally, saline finish that is effortlessly integrated and impossible to stop sipping.

James Suckling 93 — “Lovely balance of juicy fruit and acidity that dances nimbly across the palate. Delicate, silky finish.”
Wine Spectator 93 — “Fresh and racy, yet there’s an effortless quality to the integration that makes this hard to stop sipping.”
Wine Advocate 90 — “Vibrant core of fruit and brisk acids, complemented by a mouth-filling mousse.”

• Producer: Ruinart, Reims, Champagne, France (est. 1729)
• Style: Brut Blanc de Blancs NV
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Sources: Côtes des Blancs, Montagne de Reims, Sézanne
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus zest, green apple, lemon, pear, white flowers, apricot, candied ginger, toast, Marcona almond, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, lobster, Dover sole, sushi, fresh goat cheese, caviar, light canapés

The oldest Champagne house. The purest Chardonnay expression. Ruinart Blanc de Blancs is the benchmark.

San Felice Chianti Classico — Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany 2022

San Felice is one of Chianti Classico’s most storied and respected estates, farming over 270 hectares in the Castelnuovo Berardenga sub-zone — the southernmost and warmest corner of the appellation, known for producing wines of particular richness, structure, and savory depth. The Chianti Classico is the estate’s benchmark expression: a blend of Sangiovese with the rare indigenous varieties Colorino and Pugnitello, vinified to capture the vibrant, earthy, food-friendly soul of traditional Chianti at an exceptional price point. The 2022 vintage earned 91 points from Wine Enthusiast and 90 from Vinous, and is drinking beautifully now.

The nose is defined by cool earthiness: flint, wild herbs, tart blackberries, mushroom, and balsamic. On the palate, it is vibrant and open-knit — cherries, black cherry, blackberry, crushed flowers, and orange peel are framed by dusty, chewy tannins, notable acidity, and a flinty, iron-inflected finish that anchors the wine with real Chianti character. A textbook food wine of the highest order.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “Cool earthiness defines the nose, with aromas of flint, wild herbs and tart blackberries, and umami notes of mushroom and balsamic. Dusty, chewy tannins and notable acid emphasize that flinty earthiness.”

Vinous 90 — “Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, spice, new leather and a kick of orange peel. Soft, open-knit. Drink it over the next few years.”

Wine Spectator 89 — “Black cherry and blackberry flavors with accents of violet, earth and iron. Firm tannins infuse the finish. Drink now through 2027.”

• Producer: San Felice, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Blend: Sangiovese, Colorino, Pugnitello
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Flint, wild herbs, blackberry, mushroom, balsamic, cherry, crushed flowers, orange peel, iron finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Pasta Bolognese, lasagna, wood-fired pizza, grilled lamb with rosemary, roast turkey, aged Pecorino, charcuterie

Sangiovese, Colorino, Pugnitello, and 91 points from Wine Enthusiast — San Felice Chianti Classico is the Tuscan food wine that always earns its place at the table.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | A pleasing balance of rich flavor, mouthwatering acidity and verve deliver. This wine combines the aromatic lift of citrus blossoms with flavors of crisp nectarine, spice and a hint of guava. Delicious.

James Suckling 92 Points | A creamy and flavorful chardonnay, offering white peaches, raw walnuts, lemon rind and melon. Rich but clean and textured, with medium to full body and delicious stone fruit in the middle. Tense, juicy finish

Winemaker Description 

The 2023 vintage could be the vintage of the decade. It is among the coolest growing seasons in Napa Valley in the past ten-plus years, resulting in wines that are exceptionally flavorful, expressive, and have strong potential to age for decades to come. 

This Chardonnay presents a complex bouquet with enticing aromas of ripe melon, honeysuckle, and juicy peach, complemented by delicate hints of citrus blossoms.  

The name KARIA (KAR-ee-ah) is derived from the Greek word meaning graceful, and the 2023 KARIA Chardonnay lives up to its moniker. It shows how grapes from select cool-climate vineyards in southern Napa Valley can be vinified and blended into a seamless integration of fresh-fruit aromas and flavors, crisp acidity and subtle oak spice. Light and graceful: that’s KARIA. 

KARIA comes from a tapestry of vineyards in the southern part of Napa Valley. For the 2023 vintage, vineyards in the Atlas Peak District (42%), Carneros (35%), Arcadia (14%) and Bravo Zulu (8%) contributed fruit for this wine. The vineyards in Carneros (Beckster Las Amigas and Carneros Creek), which are cooled in the mornings and evenings by breezes sweeping north from San Pablo Bay, contribute citrus and mineral notes to the wine. ARCADIA VINEYARD brings perfume and delicate fruit characters. The Oak Knoll vineyards (Bravo Zulu) provide bright, juicy apple and pear personality to the blend. Atlas Peak fruit adds a lemon/lime citrus character and a richer mouthfeel. The grapes for this wine were picked early in the morning to keep them cool and then they were whole cluster pressed to preserve freshness. Oak and malolactic fermentation were used in moderation to accent, rather than overwhelm, the fruit. 

Château Peyrabon Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois — Bordeaux 2016

The 2016 Bordeaux vintage is widely regarded as one of the greatest of the modern era — a year of perfect balance between power and elegance, with a growing season that delivered concentration, freshness, and structure in equal measure. Château Peyrabon, situated just west of the prestigious Pauillac appellation in the Haut-Médoc, is one of the appellation's most consistent Cru Bourgeois overachievers. High in Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 is now in its prime drinking window and has earned 91 points from both Wine Enthusiast and Vinous, and 90 points from Decanter — a Best Buy by any measure at this price.

The nose is finely detailed and captivating: blackberry, raspberry, pressed flower, blackcurrant, and mineral aromas that exude class. On the palate, the wine is well-balanced and medium-to-full-bodied with fine-grain tannins, ripe generous black-currant fruit, a distinctive saline quality with touches of oyster shell and spice, and a poised, edgy finish of cedar and dark fruit. It is drinking beautifully now and will continue to evolve through 2038.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Best Buy — "With its high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine has a good structure and ripe, generous black-currant flavors. Its fresh character gives juiciness that contrasts with the rich fruits. Drink from 2023." (Vintage 2016).
Vinous 91 — "Finely detailed bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, pressed flower and mineral aromas. This exudes class. Fine grain tannin, one of the more saline Cru Bourgeois with touches of oyster shell and spice. Very fine." (Vintage 2016). 
Decanter 90 — "Rich, ripe black fruit with plenty of structural support from grippy and energetic tannins, well balanced by bright acidity. Drinking Window 2023–2038." (Vintage 2016). 

• Producer: Château Peyrabon, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2016
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC, Cru Bourgeois
• Region: Bordeaux, France
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend (Merlot)
• Drinking Window: Now – 2038
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, blackcurrant, pressed flower, oyster shell, cedar, dark spice, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Rack of lamb, pan-seared duck breast, prime rib, wild mushroom sauté, aged Comté

A 91-point Cru Bourgeois from a legendary Bordeaux vintage at an honest price — Château Peyrabon 2016 is the benchmark for what Haut-Médoc Cabernet can deliver under $25.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter 93 Points | A cuvée from Lemelson's five organic estate sites, this Pinot Noir is savoury and bright-fruited. The Thea's Selection shows red currant, tart cranberry, and roughly chopped mint. The palate stays savoury with pine sap and dried herbs accenting intense pomegranate fruits, dried lavender, and structured black tea and clove notes.

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | Snappy and vibrant, with tart cherry, cranberry, green tea and spice flavors that zip along toward sleek tannins. Drink now through 2032. 

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | The 2022 Pinot Noir Thea's Selection has a bright red hue and is expressive with aromas of spiced cherries, forest herbs, and dried orange peel. It’s bright and medium-bodied, with a snappy freshness, chalky tannins, and a lifted finish.

Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir Thea's Selection 2022 - A True Expression of Terroir

Winemaker Description

As their house cuvee, Lemelson's Thea's Selection is a blend from their five organic, estate vineyards that span three different Willamette Valley AVAs. As such, it is a wonderful representation of the vintage across all their sites. The nose is inviting and earthy with black cherry, black currant and plum fruit that is nuanced by subtle notes of black tea, chocolate, mushroom, and lavender. This wine is rich and supple with silky tannins and a juicy core which transitions into a long finish that leaves the taste of brambly fruit on the palate. 

Memo Summary Notes

The 2022 Lemelson Vineyards "Thea's Selection" Pinot Noir is a masterful "house cuvée" that blends fruit from five of Lemelson's organically farmed estate vineyards across the Willamette Valley.

The 2022 vintage in Oregon is often called the "rollercoaster year" due to an early spring frost followed by a record-warm summer, resulting in wines with high aromatic intensity and serious textural power.

• Food: Its savory edge makes it perfect for roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or herb-crusted lamb. It also has enough acidity to cut through fatty charcuterie or a classic salmon dish.

Rich Flavor Profile and Aroma

Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir Thea's Selection 2022 showcases an impressive range of flavors and aromas. It offers notes of ripe cherry, raspberry, and subtle hints of spice that develop with each sip. The complexity of this wine is enhanced by its beautiful acidity and smooth tannins, which create a well-rounded texture. Because this wine is crafted from carefully selected grapes, it demonstrates the true character of the Willamette Valley, making it a must-try for any wine enthusiast.

Craftsmanship Behind the Wine

This particular selection is a testament to the dedicated craftsmanship at Lemelson Vineyards. The grapes are hand-harvested, ensuring that only the finest fruit is used in the winemaking process. Moreover, the fermentation occurs in small batches, allowing for precise control and a more intimate expression of the vineyard's quality. As a result, each bottle captures the essence of the vintage while reflecting the vineyard's commitment to sustainability and excellence.

Perfect Pairings and Occasions

Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir Thea's Selection is exceptionally versatile when it comes to food pairings. It complements a variety of dishes, such as grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or a charcuterie board. Therefore, you can effortlessly serve it at casual gatherings or more formal dinners. This Pinot Noir is not only a delightful choice for wine lovers but also makes for an excellent gift for friends or family who appreciate quality wines.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023 (Barrel Samples)

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) — 90–92 Points
"A very pretty, aromatic wine. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon, dried herbs, and a kiss of French oak are all nicely delineated. This juicy, perfumed, Merlot-based Haut-Médoc is a fine choice for drinking over the next decade or so. The 2023 is absolutely delicious."

James Suckling — 91–92 Points
"A crunchy red with blackcurrant and lead-pencil character. Medium body, fine tannins, and an attractive finish. Polished and friendly. 59% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot."

Jeb Dunnuck — 89–91 Points
"A terrific Haut-Médoc with a juicy, medium-bodied, elegant style and the pure, ripe red and almost blue fruit character of the vintage. Spice, spring flowers, and hints of charcoal define the aromatics, with beautiful tannins and balance."

About Madame de Beaucaillou

Madame de Beaucaillou is a relatively new and highly regarded addition to the portfolio of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou — the legendary Second Growth estate in Saint-Julien. First released in 2019 to celebrate the estate’s 300th harvest, this cuvée is a tribute to Madame Eugène-Borie, the long-standing matriarch of the owning family. Sourced from the Haut-Médoc appellation rather than Saint-Julien, it offers the winemaking precision and pedigree of Ducru-Beaucaillou at a fraction of the grand vin price — a rare opportunity to access Second Growth DNA under $30.

Food Pairings

Grilled veal chops, roast chicken with herbs, steak frites, roasted root vegetables, savory mushroom tart, Brie de Meaux, and mild Tomme de Savoie.

Product Details

• Producer: Château Ducru-Beaucaillou (Madame de Beaucaillou)
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: 59% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Medium-bodied, aromatic, Merlot-driven Bordeaux
• Drink: Now–2033
• Format: 750ml

Chalk Hill Chardonnay — Sonoma Coast 2024

Since 1972, Chalk Hill has been one of Sonoma County’s most dedicated Chardonnay producers, crafting terroir-driven wines of character, richness, and elegance from the region’s rolling hills. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay draws from premium cool-climate sites — including Russian River Valley and Carneros — to deliver the house’s signature creamy texture alongside the crispness and energy that coastal California does best. The 2024 vintage earned 93 points from James Suckling and represents outstanding value: fruit-forward, opulent, and crowd-pleasing without sacrificing precision.

The nose is bright and inviting: Fuji apple, lemon curd, honeydew melon, toasty oak, and baking spices, with a touch of flinty minerality and nutmeg. On the palate, it is mouth-filling and full-bodied — juicy acidity lifts flavors of white peach and ripe citrus, while partial malolactic fermentation adds a touch of creaminess and depth. The finish is clean, generous, and satisfying.

James Suckling 93 — “Fruit-forward and opulent, showing juicy acidity and flavors of white peaches. A mouth-filling, weighty, full-bodied wine. Generous and satisfying with a big burst of flavor and a clean finish.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Chalk Hill, Sonoma County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Sources: Russian River Valley, Carneros, and Sonoma Coast cool-climate sites
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fuji apple, lemon curd, honeydew melon, white peach, toasty oak, baking spices, flinty minerality, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster rolls, grilled prawns, sea bass, roast chicken, creamy pasta, Brie, young goat cheese

Fifty years of Sonoma Chardonnay expertise at an honest price — Chalk Hill’s Sonoma Coast is the crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Fattoria La Valentina | Pecorino Biologico | Colline Pescaresi IGT | Abruzzo, Italy | 2024

Fattoria La Valentina is one of Abruzzo’s most respected organic estates, farming the sun-drenched hills of Pescara with a commitment to minimal intervention and expressive terroir. Pecorino — an ancient indigenous variety long thought extinct, rediscovered in the Apennine foothills — has found one of its finest homes here. La Valentina’s version is 100% Pecorino from the Colline Pescaresi, with a period of lees aging that adds texture and complexity to the variety’s naturally vivid character.

The nose opens fresh and citrusy with lemon, lime, crushed minerals, and saltwater, then turns floral with white flowers and fresh grass. On the palate, bright citrus and tangy acidity carry through to a finish where salinity swells and lingers — saline, precise, and deeply refreshing. A wine that punches well above its price and rewards those who seek out Italy’s most exciting indigenous whites.

• Producer: Fattoria La Valentina
• Appellation: Colline Pescaresi IGT, Abruzzo, Italy
• Grape: 100% Pecorino (Organic)
• Vintage: 2024
• Aging: Sur lie
• Serve: 46–50°F
• Pairings: Clams, mussels, shellfish, Adriatic fish dishes, seafood pasta, aperitivo
• Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2024

• Wine Enthusiast — 90 pts (Danielle Callegari): Fresh and citrusy with lemon, lime, minerals and saltwater, then floral with white flowers and grass. Tangy and citrus on the palate; salinity swells on the finish on the back of fierce acidity.

Bogle Vineyards California Chardonnay — California 2023

Bogle Vineyards has been farming the Sacramento River Delta since 1968 — one of California's most enduring family wine estates, now in its third generation. Their California Chardonnay is a perennial overachiever: sourced from select California vineyards, crafted with careful oak integration, and built to deliver genuine complexity at an everyday price. The 2023 vintage reflects the distinct influence of a cooler growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop nuanced, layered flavors that punch well above their weight class.

The nose is captivating: freshly baked brioche, yellow plum, bruléed orange slices, and notes of elderflower honey lead into vibrant aromas of bright citrus, freshly plucked apple, and delicate white jasmine. On the palate, stone fruit notes are met with rich undertones of vanilla and clove, harmonized with warm spice and a touch of oak-derived toastiness. Sugared lemon rind, baked pear, and Pink Lady apple carry through to a balanced, mineral-dry finish with higher toasty notes lingering gracefully.

🏆 Wine Enthusiast 92 Points — Tonya Pitts. "The aromas of freshly baked brioche are captivating, giving way to yellow plum, bruléed orange slices and notes of elderflower honey. Flavors of sugared lemon rind, baked pear, Pink Lady apple with a mineral dry finish."

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards, Clarksburg, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Dry white, medium-bodied, oak-influenced
• Tasting Notes: Brioche, yellow plum, bruléed orange, elderflower honey, citrus, baked pear, vanilla, clove, toasty oak, mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Roasted chicken, grilled salmon, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, butternut squash dishes

California Chardonnay that genuinely overdelivers — Bogle's 2023 is complex, balanced, and built for the table.

Nigl Grüner Veltliner Freiheit — Kremstal, Austria 2025

Martin Nigl is one of Austria's most respected winemakers, farming steep hillside vineyards above the city of Krems in the Kremstal — a region celebrated for Grüner Veltliner and Riesling of exceptional precision and mineral character. The Freiheit — German for "freedom" — takes its name from a remarkable piece of history: this land is believed to be among the first privately owned vineyard land in the valley not controlled by the Church or a feudal estate. It is, quite literally, a wine of liberation. Sourced from four different vineyards in the hills above Krems, the soils are primarily löss, and the steep elevation moderates temperature to preserve freshness and aromatic lift. Fermentation and élevage occur entirely in stainless steel, and in a detail that speaks to Martin's obsessive attention to freshness, the wine is bottled at night — when the cellars are at their coolest.

The 2025 pours a pale, luminous straw. The nose is clean and expressive — citrus, green apple, white pepper, and a subtle mineral lift from the löss soils. On the palate, it's precise and refreshing with lively acidity, a focused mid-palate, and a crisp, dry, lingering finish. Everything Kremstal Grüner should be: pure, food-friendly, and built with care.

"Freiheit — freedom — believed to be some of the first privately owned vineyard land in the valley not controlled by the Church or a feudal estate. Bottled at night when the cellars are at their coolest." — Martin Nigl

• Producer: Weingut Nigl, Kremstal, Austria
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Kremstal DAC
• Varietal: Grüner Veltliner
• Vineyard: Four sites above Krems; löss soils; steep elevation
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation and élevage; night bottling
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, green apple, white pepper, löss minerality, crisp dry finish
• Best Paired With: Wiener Schnitzel, grilled fish, sushi, asparagus, Thai cuisine, fresh goat cheese

A wine of freedom — Kremstal Grüner Veltliner from Austria's most historically significant privately owned vineyard land, bottled at night for maximum freshness.

Producer Notes

Bodegas Cepa 21 is celebrated worldwide for crafting wines true to the Ribera del Duero terroir and its most famous grape, Tempranillo — locally known as Tinta del País. Winemaker José Moro stamps his wines with knowledge from generations of winemaking history in the region. Fresh and enticing red fruit aromas burst from the glass: wild strawberries and raspberries combine with earthy undertones, leading to a medium-bodied experience with notes of baking spices — cinnamon and cloves. Crisp, lively, and with superb drink-now quality.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

• Wine Enthusiast 93 pts | Deep ruby-colored with a nose of raspberry jam, cocoa butter, and herbes de Provence. Bright at first sip with raspberry, red currant, toffee, milk chocolate, and aniseed flavors. Vivid acidity and luxurious tannins stroll hand in hand to a satisfying finish.

Food Pairings

• Grilled lamb chops or roasted suckling pig
• Beef tenderloin or slow-braised short ribs
• Aged Manchego or Iberian charcuterie
• Mushroom-based dishes or hearty stews

Granbazán Albariño Etiqueta Ámbar — Rías Baixas, Galicia 2024

Granbazán is one of the founding estates of modern Rías Baixas, pioneering the region's reputation for world-class Albariño since the late 1980s. The Etiqueta Ámbar — the Amber Label — is their most celebrated wine, famously served by the glass at El Bulli for many years and the wine that put Granbazán on the international map in the 1990s. Sourced from a blend of estate fruit and grapes from long-established family growers in the Salnés Valley, it receives more active bâtonnage and extended lees aging than most Albariños, adding a richness and textural depth that sets it apart from the category. Winemaker Diego Ríos, who trained in the Mosel Valley working with Riesling, brings a precision and mineral focus that is unmistakably his own.

The nose is classic and inviting: ripe peach, citrus, and white blossom with a signature salty, briny minerality that speaks directly to the Atlantic coast. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and sappy with beautiful lees-derived texture, layered fruit, and a long, tapering finish of saline freshness. A wine with genuine aging potential — and the structure to prove it.

Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points — "The most famous of this estate's wines, served by the glass at El Bulli for many years. It has richness and length in the form of medium-bodied peach and salty brine and should do well in the bottle another 5-7 years." (Vintage 2024).

Tim Atkin 93 Points — "A classic, salty, lip-smacking Val do Salnés Albariño. Sappy, layered and refreshing, it has some texture from lees-ageing and a tapering finish. 2025–29." (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Granbazán, Salnés Valley, Rías Baixas, Galicia, Spain
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Rías Baixas DO (Val do Salnés)
• Varietal: 100% Albariño
• Sourcing: Estate fruit + long-established family growers, Cambados & Meaño
• Vinification: De-stemmed, cold maceration, free-run juice only; fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel; 8 months on lees with active bâtonnage
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe peach, citrus, white blossom, salty brine, lees richness, long saline finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2031
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled turbot, seafood rice, roasted artichokes, goat cheese, ceviche
• Serve: Well chilled, 45–50°F

93 points from both Jeb Dunnuck and Tim Atkin — Granbazán Ámbar is the Albariño that made Rías Baixas famous, and it has never been better.

Jordan Winery | Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California | Chardonnay | 2023

Russian River Valley's cool, fog-driven climate is tailor-made for Chardonnay, and Jordan has long been one of its most elegant interpreters. A cool, steady 2023 growing season allowed for extended hang time, producing a wine of exceptional finesse and complexity — bright acidity, layered citrus and stone fruit, and a restrained touch of French oak that enhances without dominating. Versatile enough for the aperitif glass, refined enough for the table.

Oak: Hint of French oak
Drink: Now–2029

Tasting Notes

• White peach, Meyer lemon, lime zest, and delicate floral blossom on the nose
• Zesty lime, orange peel, crisp Bosc pear, and elderflower on the palate
• Focused, textural mouthfeel | Crystal-clean mineral finish | Refreshing acidity

Critical Acclaim

• 94 pts — The Somm Journal (July 2025), Best Aromatic Whites: "Intense up-front flavors with white-peppered lemon drop, sleek and lively. Crisp acidity brightens notes of elderflower, McIntosh apple, and hazelnut. The mineral tone is crystal clean and clear on the finish."
• 93 pts — James Suckling: "Aromas of flint, wet stones, Meyer lemons and lime zest with subtle white flowers. Focused and textural, with loads of minerals and citrus oil in the finish."

Pairings: Raw bar, oysters, grilled salmon, ahi tuna, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, light salads

Clos Henri · Estate Sauvignon Blanc · Marlborough · New Zealand · 2025

Clos Henri is the Marlborough outpost of the legendary Bourgeois family of Sancerre — and it shows in every glass. Planted at high density on a single estate in the Central Wairau Valley, where Otiran and Waimaungan glacial soils converge into three distinct terroirs — Wither Clay, Broadbridge Clay, and Greywacke Stones — this is organic Sauvignon Blanc with a French soul and a New Zealand heartbeat. The 2025 Estate earned 94 points from James Suckling and 93 from Wine Advocate, cementing its place among Marlborough’s most sophisticated whites.

The 2025 vintage was shaped by a cool, slow ripening season — overcast skies and lower temperatures through February and March — that delivered exceptional density and focus. The wine bursts with bright citrus: mandarin, yuzu blossom, meyer lemon zest, and pineapple, layered over acacia, hay, and a flinty, graphite-driven minerality. The palate is textural and round, with firm acidity, chalky structure, and a bone-dry, lingering mineral finish. Restrained, classy, and built to reward patience.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2025 

“Very elegant, superfloral and perfumed, with some flinty reduction, offering acacia blossoms, hay, fleshy lemons and a touch of elderberries. Medium-bodied with firm acidity giving structure and length. Attractive bitter-lemon note in the finish. Mineral and detailed with real focus. From organically grown grapes.”
— James Suckling · 94 Points

“The 2025 Sauvignon Blanc leads with graphite and cold tea, chalky tannins and dried grasses on the palate. The wine is far more subtle and restrained than many other Sauvignon Blancs tasted for this report, and this does fit with the assessment I hold for this producer over time. These are classy wines. This is a classy wine. Clos Henri is owned by the Bourgeois family of Sancerre (Domaine Henri Bourgeois), and it is clear that the sensibilities of their estate there are continued by their winemaker Damien Yvon here in Marlborough. This is an estate to put on your list. Clos Henri is a member of the Appellation Marlborough Wine (AMW) group. 13.5% alcohol.”
— Wine Advocate · 93 Points

“Quite restrained with subtle aromas of earth, green olive, green pineapple and a hint of gorse flowers. The palate harbours density and depth under the shell of acidity and phenolics. Gravel, hessian and wet stone complexity rise alongside a touch of dried spice on the bone-dry finish. Accessible and expressive, this mid-weight sauvignon oozes with sophistication.”
— The Real Review · 93 Points · Stephen Wong

• Producer: Clos Henri (Bourgeois Family)
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Sub-Region: Central Wairau Valley (AMW)
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Style: Dry white — mineral, textural, flinty
• Alcohol: 13.5% | Residual Sugar: <1 g/L
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Mandarin, yuzu blossom, pineapple, meyer lemon, acacia, hay, graphite, chalky mineral finish
• Pairings: Line-caught blue cod, ceviche, Thai green curry, goat’s cheese tart, tomato salads
• Cellar: Drink now through 2030

94 JS · 93 WA · 93 TRR · Marlborough — organic Sancerre-inspired Sauvignon Blanc with glacial-soil precision and Bourgeois family pedigree.

Flowers Vineyards Pinot Noir — Sonoma Coast, California 2023

Flowers Vineyards is one of California's most iconic coastal Pinot Noir estates, perched on the extreme Sonoma Coast where the Pacific Ocean's influence is felt in every bottle. Founded in 1991 by Walt and Joan Flowers, the estate farms some of the most dramatic and remote vineyard sites in California — high-elevation, wind-swept ridges above the fog line where the long, cool growing season produces Pinot Noir of extraordinary tension, complexity, and coastal character. Now part of the Huneeus Vintners family alongside Quintessa and Benton Lane, Flowers continues to set the benchmark for California coastal Pinot Noir. The 2023 vintage, shaped by a long, cool growing season, is one of the most compelling in recent memory.

The nose is captivating and complex: gravel dust, pine tar, and smashed blue fruits with whispers of violet florality, coastal evergreens, and wildflowers. On the palate, a core of red and blue brambles with a nearly feral, savoury character — dried herbs, black tea, warm spices (anise, cardamom, allspice), and earthy sandalwood — all threaded through by an intense saline throughline that crescendos at the finish with a bright squeeze of orange peel. Tangy, fresh, and beautifully balanced.

Decanter 93 Points — "There is an oomph and intensity to the 2023 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir from Flowers. Aromas of gravel dust, pine tar and smashed blue fruits come to the fore with whispers of violet florality. There's an intense saline throughline that crescendos at the finish."

James Suckling 93 Points — "A great reflection of the long, cool growing season. Tangy, fresh and well balanced, with intricate orange zest, cinnamon, red cherry and black tea flavors on a vibrant, acid-driven texture. Medium- to full-bodied." (Vintage 2023).

• Producer: Flowers Vineyards & Winery, Extreme Sonoma Coast, California
• Founded: 1991
• Owner: Huneeus Vintners (Quintessa, Benton Lane)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA, California
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Style: Medium-to-Full Bodied, Coastal, Complex
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blue fruit, red cherry, gravel dust, pine tar, violet, saline, dried herbs, black tea, orange peel, dark spice
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2033
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, lamb, aged pinot-friendly cheeses
• Serve: 58–62°F, decant 20–30 minutes

93 points from both Decanter and James Suckling — Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 is California coastal Pinot at its most compelling.

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

93 Points Wine Spectator: "This packs in some serious plum compote and cassis flavors, liberally wrapped in dark licorice and finishing with a swath of sweet toast and tobacco on the broad finish. Nice mineral underpinning keeps it honest. Fairly accessible despite its heft."

Winemaker Description

The Cabernet opens with fresh fruit, aromas of black currant, ripe raspberry, wild sage, graphite, crushed rose petals, and fennel seed. The palate is elegant, complex, rich, and refreshing with a long finish that is supported by supple tannin and beautifully integrated French Oak.

Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot

About the Producer

Since first working in her family's Mendocino vineyards, Kathryn Hall dreamed of a place to showcase fine wines alongside expressive art and masterful architecture. Now, Kathryn and Craig Hall have created an unrivalled destination in the Napa Valley — where more than 30 years of winemaking excellence and innovation meets contemporary design to celebrate life and inspire the senses.

The Halls acquired the historic St. Helena Bergfeld Winery in 2003 and re-opened as HALL St. Helena in July of that year. With a rich history spanning 150 years, HALL St. Helena was once the home of the Napa Valley Co-Op, producing 40% of Napa Valley's wines. In 2013, the Hall family completed the restoration of the 1885 Bergfeld Winery — California's first LEED® Gold Certified winery — alongside a stunning Visitor Center and state-of-the-art gravity flow winemaking facility.

HALL's estate vineyards encompass more than 500 acres of classic Bordeaux varietals. As winegrowers, the Halls have a strong respect for the environment and a commitment to cutting-edge vineyard technology. Under the artisanship of winemaker Megan Gunderson, HALL Wines continue to set new heights in Napa Valley winemaking.

Bürklin-Wolf Estate Riesling Trocken — Pfalz 2024

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf is one of Germany's most storied wine estates, with roots in the Pfalz stretching back to the 17th century. Under the stewardship of Bettina Bürklin-von Guradze — one of Germany's most celebrated woman winemakers — the estate converted fully to biodynamic farming in 2005, becoming a benchmark for sustainable viticulture in the region. The vineyards, which include grand cru sites Gaisböhl and Gerümpel, are farmed without synthetic inputs, guided by lunar cycles, and harvested by hand. The result is a range of Rieslings that express the Pfalz with uncommon precision and vitality.

The 2024 Estate Riesling Trocken is sourced from young vines — fifth and sixth leaf — from Gaisböhl and Gerümpel, fermented spontaneously with native yeasts, half in traditional Doppelstück oak casks and half in stainless steel. The combination preserves freshness while adding a subtle textural complexity that sets this wine apart from its peers at the price. Bone dry, vegan, and built for the table.

Pale gold in the glass with a luminous clarity. The nose is pristine and aromatic — abundant peach, Amalfi lemon, preserved citrus, and a delicate mineral flicker of flint. On the palate it is medium-bodied and juicy, with the characteristic Pfalz generosity of stone fruit balanced by vivid lemon acidity and a long, saline finish. Crisp, focused, and deeply satisfying — a Riesling that rewards both the casual pour and the considered pairing.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Abundant peach and Amalfi lemon fruit, plenty of structure and bright mineral acidity on the juicy, medium-bodied palate. Pronounced preserved lemon and salt flavors in the long finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Vegan.”

Vinous — 90 Points
“A very subtle flicker of flint accompanies bright citrus and crushed citrus foliage. The palate brings the typical Pfalz juiciness with some stone fruit, but the lemon overtone is a constant in this vivid, bone-dry expression.”

• Producer: Dr. Bürklin-Wolf, Wachenheim, Pfalz, Germany
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Pfalz
• Grape: 100% Riesling
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic, Vegan
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bone-dry, mineral, medium-bodied Pfalz Riesling
• Tasting Notes: Peach, Amalfi lemon, preserved citrus, flint, stone fruit, saline finish
• Drink Window: Now–2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, oysters, sushi, roast chicken, soft cheeses, asparagus

Biodynamic farming. Woman winemaker. Two 90+ scores. Pfalz Riesling at its most honest.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Spectator 92 Points: Juicy and inviting, with tasty raspberry and mulberry notes infused with pine forest, red tea and wet earth accents. Keeps the fleshy, juicy feel through the lightly toasted finish. Drink now through 2028.

Winemaker Description

Lush, layered and complex, this enticing Pinot Noir draws you in with aromas of ripe raspberry and black cherry, alongside notions of pennyroyal, clove and sweet baking spices. On the palate, supple tannins and elegantly balanced acidity frame juicy flavors of blackberry and Bing cherry, with savory hints of nutmeg, leather and breakfast tea emerging on the long, robust finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roasted duck with cherry reduction or herb-crusted chicken thighs.
• Meat: Lamb chops with rosemary or pork tenderloin with mushroom sauce.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère, Brie, or a mild washed-rind cheese.

Domaine Isabelle & Denis Pommier — Chablis AOC 2023

Appellation: Chablis AOC, Burgundy | Varietal: Chardonnay | Format: 750ml | Farming: Certified Organic (AgriBio since 2010)

Founded in 1990 on two hectares of family land, Domaine Isabelle & Denis Pommier has grown into one of Chablis’ most respected family estates. Their path from sustainable farming to fully certified organic viticulture is embodied in the red ladybug on their bright yellow labels — a symbol of genuine respect for the land. The 2023 is a textbook expression of what Kimmeridgian limestone and cool-climate Chardonnay can achieve together: round, fleshy, and mineral-precise.

Vineyard & Viticulture

• Location: Slopes in the villages of Chablis and Ligny-le-Châtel, Northernmost sub-region of Burgundy
• Soil: Kimmeridgian limestone in Chablis; Portlandian in Ligny-le-Châtel
• Farming: AgriBio certified organic since 2010; soils worked manually, no synthetic inputs

Vinification & Aging

• Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tank
• Aged on the lees in tank for 6 months
• Drink now through 2029

Tasting Notes

Crisp green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers on the nose. Flinty oyster-shell minerality from Kimmeridgian limestone. Round and fleshy on the palate with bright acidity and a clean, precise finish. Serve well-chilled alongside oysters, clams, grilled fish, sushi, seafood risotto, or aged chèvre.

Awards & Acclaim

• Gold Medal — Vinari Awards Barcelona Rosé International Bubbles Awards 2025
• 90 Points — James Suckling
• Gold Medal — International Wine Awards 2024
• Gold Medal — Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition 2022
• 92 Points — Gourmets Guide 2021 (Best Cavas)

Winemaker Notes

The Canals Canals family crafted this rosé cava from 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Garnatxa (Garnacha), following the Traditional Method — secondary fermentation in bottle with 24+ months aging on lees in their cellars. Certified organic.

Deep red-rose color with fine, persistent bubbles. Fresh and floral on the nose with ripened red fruits and a slightly nutty character. Perfectly balanced and full-bodied on the palate with a long, clean finish.

Tasting & Pairings

Red fruits, floral notes, and a nutty edge. Full-bodied for a sparkling rosé with fine mousse and a clean, lingering finish. Serve cold (6–8°C / 43–46°F).

• Charcuterie or tapas — a natural aperitif pairing with Spanish flair.
• Pasta, rice dishes, or blue fish — the body and acidity handle richer fare.
• Seasoned white meat or red meat stews — this has the structure to stand up to heartier dishes.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast (Tonya Pitts) 90 Points: Deep aromas of baked plum, coffee bean, dried bay leaf, cocoa, and dried florals on the nose. These aromas softly float into the palate giving flavors of dried cranberry, strawberry, and grilled orange rind, leaving the palate with grippy, mouthwatering tannins.

Winemaker Description

Bogle’s California Merlot opens with aromatics of Bing cherries, sassafras, and hints of pipe tobacco. Supple red fruits on the entry give way to touches of cedar and sweet herbs — an approachable, food-friendly Merlot that consistently over-delivers for the price.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Peking duck, roasted chicken with herbs, or turkey with cranberry sauce.
• Meat: Braised short ribs, pork tenderloin, or a classic beef stew.
• Cheese: Mild cheddar, Havarti, or a creamy Brie.

Bravium Russian River Valley Chardonnay — Plumis Vineyard, Sonoma County 2024

Bravium is a specialist in cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley — one of California’s most prestigious appellations for both varieties, where morning fog rolls in off the Pacific and lingers through the vines, preserving natural acidity and producing wines of remarkable freshness and precision. The 2024 Chardonnay is sourced primarily from the Plumis Vineyard near Forestville, a prized site where the interplay of coastal influence and California sunshine creates a wine that balances richness with crisp coastal structure. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points.

The nose is loaded and inviting: floral aromas, chalky minerality, pithy lemon, pineapple, honey, pear, apple, and white flowers, with a judicious framing of vanillin oak. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and lively — crisp pineapple and mango fruit flavors that turn into apple pastry on the mid-palate, finely textured with medium acidity that builds into a saline, mineral finish of remarkable length and bounce. It is the kind of Chardonnay that delivers great value at every pour.

Wine Enthusiast 91 (Tom R. Capo) — "The nose is loaded with floral aromas, swirling with chalky minerality, pithy lemon, and pineapple. The palate is driven by lively acid, with flavors of fresh pear, tropical citrus, white flowers, and ginger that ebb and flow through the finale. There’s great value here." (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Bravium, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA
• Vineyard: Plumis Vineyard, Forestville
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Full-bodied, cool-climate Chardonnay with saline minerality
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pineapple, mango, lemon, pear, apple pastry, white flowers, ginger, vanillin oak, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oyster po’ boys, grilled salmon with lemon butter, Dungeness crab cakes, mushroom risotto, fettuccine Alfredo, aged Gouda, creamy Brie

A 91-point single-vineyard Russian River Chardonnay at an honest price — Bravium’s Plumis Vineyard bottling is the benchmark for what cool-climate, fog-influenced Sonoma Chardonnay can deliver.

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points (Tonya Pitts) | Bold and supple with aromas of red currant, dark strawberry, brown sugar, cinnamon, and toasty oak. The palate mirrors the nose with hibiscus tea, cracked black pepper, silky tannins, and a smooth finish. Pair with a shredded chicken sandwich with Alabama BBQ sauce. (Vintage 2023)

Winemaker's Notes
 
McManis Family Vineyards crafts this Zinfandel as a rich, fruit-forward expression of California's Central Valley. Deep purple in the glass, it is loaded with notes of ripe red currant, strawberry, caramelized sugar, and toasty oak. Savory red fruit on the palate leads to soft, supple tannins and a long, smooth finish.

    •    Winery: McManis Family Vineyards
    •    Appellation: California
    •    Varietal: Zinfandel
    •    Vintage: 2023
    •    Format: 750ml
    •    Style: Bold, fruit-forward, smooth tannins
    •    Pairings: BBQ, grilled meats, burgers, spiced dishes

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Matt Kettmann writes 91 Points | Toasted almond, citrus pith and light dairy aromas show on the nose of this appellation cuvée. The palate picks up an earthier line, as chaparral rock and herb flavors meet with brighter lemon and dried pear elements.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | From grapes grown primarily in San Luis Obispo, the 2023 Chardonnay is a nicely integrated, full-bodied white with grainy texture and flavors of lemon pith, tangerine and wet stone. Hugely enjoyable, with a rounded mouthfeel and long-lasting acidity, it is drinking well now but should continue to be great another 5-7 years.

Winery Notes

Impeccably balanced, this Chardonnay reflects its cool-climate coastal roots with aromas of lemon zest, apricot, and delicate orange blossom. On the palate, vibrant notes of golden apple and pineapple are elevated by bright acidity, delivering focus and energy to a crisp, refreshing finish.

The 2023 growing season began with a long, wet winter, followed by an early spring that delayed budbreak across the Central Coast. Moderate spring weather provided near-ideal conditions for bloom, while the mild temperatures persisted into summer. This extended the ripening period by an additional month, allowing the fruit to achieve exceptional ripeness with a harmonious balance of acidity and concentration.

In 1975, legendary vintner and pioneer Josh Jensen founded Calera (Spanish for “lime kiln”) high in the Gavilan Mountains of California’s majestic Central Coast. In the four decades since, Calera has helped establish the Central Coast as one of the New World’s most exciting wine regions, while earning acclaim as one of California’s iconic wineries. Sourced from some of the appellation’s finest vineyards, the Calera Central Coast Chardonnay has become a benchmark for the region, balancing lush richness with beautiful minerality and bright citrus flavors.

Memo Pairing Suggestions

Food Pairings: Pairs excellently with grilled fish, roasted chicken, wild mushroom ravioli in a light cream sauce, or salads with goat cheese.

Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut — Champagne NV

Piper-Heidsieck is one of Champagne’s most iconic and storied houses, founded in 1785 and long favored by royalty and Hollywood alike. The Cuvée Brut is the house’s flagship non-vintage expression — a Pinot-dominant blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier, and 20% Chardonnay that delivers the house’s signature vivacity, richness, and precision. Consistently earning scores of 90–92 points across the world’s most respected publications, this is a Champagne of genuine pedigree at an exceptional price.

The nose is complex and inviting: black cherry, white peach purée, croissant, sourdough, dried lemon, apricot, and salted almond, with bright florals and a racy finesse. On the palate, it is creamy and mouthwatering — soft Brut character balanced by a crisp bite of acidity, a finely detailed mousse, and a spiced, rounded finish of honey, red fruit, and toasted brioche.

Wine Spectator 92 — “A vivacious Champagne. Flavors of black cherry, toast point, white peach purée and salted almond on a finely detailed mousse. Creamy and mouthwatering on the spiced finish.”
Decanter 92 — “Racy nose of real finesse. A well-hewn palate with bright florals, red fruit and delicate flavours of honey.”
Wine Enthusiast 90 • Wine & Spirits 90 • James Suckling 90

• Producer: Piper-Heidsieck, Reims, Champagne, France
• Founded: 1785
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, white peach, croissant, sourdough, dried lemon, apricot, salted almond, honey, red fruit, creamy mousse
• Best Paired With: Oysters, sole, lobster, smoked salmon, soft cheeses, charcuterie

Founded in 1785, favored by royalty, and scoring 92 points — Piper-Heidsieck’s Cuvée Brut is Champagne history you can drink tonight.

A fantastic Rhone from Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf du Pape 2023 

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 95 Points
"An attractive, layered, velvety, and poised Châteauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of cherries, strawberries, dried herbs, tar, and baking spices. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Succulent and well composed. There’s elegance here, yet it has character and structure. Seductive and flavorful with a long finish."

Jeb Dunnuck — 92–94 Points (Barrel Sample)
"The 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape will be beautiful, with a charming, soft, supple, forward style. Ripe red and black fruits, peppery herbs, and lavender notes all define the bouquet, and it hits the palate with medium-to-full-bodied richness, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, and sweet tannins. Based on 75% Grenache, 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault — 50% destemmed and raised entirely in foudre. It’s clearly outstanding and another classic release from this brilliant estate."

About Le Vieux Donjon

Le Vieux Donjon is one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most celebrated and consistent family estates, owned and farmed by the Michel family for generations. The domaine takes its name from the ancient papal tower — the “old dungeon” — that overlooks their vineyards in the heart of the appellation. Farming organically on the iconic galets roulés — the large rounded stones that retain heat and reflect sunlight onto the vines — Le Vieux Donjon produces Grenache-dominant blends of extraordinary depth, complexity, and age-worthiness. The estate is widely regarded as a benchmark Châteauneuf-du-Pape producer, consistently earning top scores from the world’s leading critics vintage after vintage.

Food Pairings

Roasted lamb, duck confit, wild boar, herb-crusted beef tenderloin, truffle dishes, aged Comté, and Provençal stews. Decant 1–2 hours before serving; cellar through 2035+.

Product Details

• Producer: Le Vieux Donjon
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Rhône Valley, France
• Blend: 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault
• Aging: Foudre (large oak casks)
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, layered, cellar-worthy Southern Rhône red
• Drink: Now–2035+ (decant 1–2 hours)
• Format: 750ml