90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

Producer Notes

The Chianti Classico Riserva is central to Badia a Coltibuono’s vision and its deep relationship with place and history. Using the traditional blend of Sangiovese, Colorino, Canaiolo, and Ciliegiolo — propagated by massal selection — has always been the backbone of the wine. Modern techniques such as gravity vinification bring forth the best expression of the fruit, while traditional approaches — indigenous yeast fermentation and aging in oak casks rather than barriques — are central to its authenticity. The winery’s long-established certified organic practices are fundamental to the truly unique character of the grapes.

Sangiovese, Colorino, Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

• Wine Spectator 93 pts | Raspberry and kirsch aromas and flavors with iron, eucalyptus, wild herbs, and spices. Impressive up front yet still needs time to resolve the assertive tannins. Sangiovese, Colorino, Canaiolo, and Ciliegiolo.
• James Suckling 92 pts | Complete and balanced with good fruit concentration, freshness, and vibrancy. Red berries, spices, and dried orange peel with medium to full body, tense acidity, and compact but nicely ripened tannins. Lingering finish.

Food Pairings

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina or braised lamb
• Wild boar ragù or truffle pasta
• Aged Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano-Reggiano
• Mushroom risotto or roasted duck

Clos du Val · Estate Cabernet Sauvignon · Napa Valley 2023

Founded in 1972, Clos du Val says its winemaking is guided by family and a close connection to the land. Its 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a Napa Valley bottling; Wine Advocate lists a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot.

The winemaker describes blackberry, mulberry, cassis and violet on the nose, followed by cranberry, red plum, cherry and lavender. Supple tannins, balanced acidity and a long, smooth finish round it out.

Winemaker Description
This fresh and vibrant Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is brimming with aromas of blackberry, mulberry, cassis, and violet. On the palate, bright flavors of cranberry, red plum, cherry, and lavender are intertwined with supple tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, smooth finish.

James Suckling · 94 Points · 2023
Refined and earth-driven, showing tightly wound black-fruit aromas with underlying notes of graphite, bitter chocolate and cured meats. The palate is focused and pure with finely tuned tannins and a generous yet precise palate.

Wine Enthusiast · 94 Points · 2023
Expressive with the potential to age, this Cabernet captures the inky dark fruits, dark chocolate, and cascade of fresh herbs so classic to the cuvée, with the intensity and lengthy structure of the vintage.

Vinous · 92 Points · 2023
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a fabulous entry-level offering in this range. Bright, aromatic and punchy, the 2023 is seriously beautiful from start to finish. Rose petal, spice and new leather meld into a core of dark red/purplish fruit. There's a good bit of tannin, making this a pretty serious appellation wine.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate · 91 Points · 2023
A super value in ready-to-drink Napa Cab, Clos du Val's 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is actually a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot. Black cherries dominate the nose, joined by hints of cassis and tobacco leaf, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is firm without being hard or edgy and finishes long and silky.

Wine Spectator · 90 Points · 2023
This is fresh and juicy, with a slightly understated style to its black cherry and blackberry compote flavors, all laced with light singed alder and savory hints and then dusted with a cocoa note on the finish. Drink now through 2033.

• Producer: Clos du Val
• Wine: Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Blend (Wine Advocate): 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml

Layered dark fruit, fine tannins and a long finish make this a classic Napa Valley Cabernet for the table.

Producer Notes

Domaine de Chevalier is one of Pessac-Léognan’s most celebrated Grand Cru Classé estates, renowned for producing wines of extraordinary precision, freshness, and longevity. The 2020 is widely regarded as one of the legendary wines from this address — a wine that effortlessly triumphs over the heat and drought of the vintage to produce something nuanced, pure, and deeply classical. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Pure cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and scorched earth on the nose. Full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and a finish of extraordinary length. Best from 2027, with the potential to evolve for 50+ years.

65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

• Jeb Dunnuck 98+ pts | Pure cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and scorched earth. Full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. Pure, classic, regal Pessac-Léognan. Drink 2027–2077.
• James Suckling 97–99 pts | Purity of fruit is really something — blackcurrants, blackberries, orange, stone, and granite. Full-bodied with very fine, polished tannins. Great length. One for the cellar. Drink after 2030.
• Vinous 96 pts | Bright, poised, and wonderfully pure. Red cherry, blood orange, mint, star anise, and cinnamon. Built on aromatic presence and persistence. What a wine! Drink 2030–2060. — Antonio Galloni
• Decanter 96 pts | Blueberry and blackcurrant with liquorice, tobacco, and bitter chocolate spices. Precision and clarity. Rich, heady, and super promising. Drink 2028–2055. — Georgina Hindle
• Wine Spectator 95 pts | Cassis, plum, blackberry, warm loam, smoldering tobacco, and singed alder. Long and deep through the fine-grained finish. Best from 2028–2038. — James Molesworth
• Jane Anson 95 pts | Cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, creamy cassis, blackberry, bilberry, cigar box, and smoked earth. A brilliant Chevalier. Drink 2027–2048.
• WK 95+ pts | Minty blackberries and cassis with burning embers, spices, rose petals, and orange rind. Fleshy and concentrated with powdery tannins and a long, saline finish. Drink 2028–2060. — William Kelley
• Jancis Robinson 18/20 | Effortlessly triumphs over the heat and drought of 2020. Nuanced, promising, with trademark freshness. Bravissimo! Drink 2030–2050.

Food Pairings

• Prime dry-aged ribeye or rack of lamb
• Roasted duck or slow-braised short ribs
• Aged Comté or Époisses
• Truffle dishes or wild mushroom risotto

Winemaker Description

This signature wine contains only fruit farmed on Howell Mountain. The wine comes in a distinctive bottle that is hand dipped in red wax. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. aged 32 months in 100% new French oak.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2017

Vinous Antonio Galloni 97 Points | The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is sure to make Dunn fans happy. Powerful and ample, it marries the natural intensity of the year with the savoriness that makes Howell Mountain Cabernets so distinctive. Dark blue/purplish fruit, graphite, spice, leather, dried herbs and lavender imbue the 2017 with striking intensity and character. I can't wait to see how it ages. The 2017 is a positively stunning edition of the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon.  Drinking 2027 - 2047.

Robert Parker Joe Czerwinski 96 Points | Already more open than the 2018 Howell Mountain, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain boasts slightly piney, resinous herb notes—thyme and rosemary—along with classic cassis and blueberry fruit. Yes, there's a cedary coat of oak, but the fruit comes through loud and clear, adding a rich, velvety textural component and mouthwatering berry flavors on the lingering finish.  Drinking 2025 - 2040  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 96+

Wine Spectator James Molesworth 95 Points | Fresh ripe cassis, blackberry and plum fruit flavors course through, carried by tar and apple wood notes that are well-embedded, giving this a muscular but sleek feel. Features a great tug of dark earth and licorice snap on the palate-staining finish. Best from 2023 through 2038. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Vinous 93 Points | The 2021 Chardonnay Cordillera de los Andes comes from the Talinay vineyard in Limarí. 50% was aged in French barrels, 23% of them new. Yellow with a greenish sheen. The nose offers green apple notes with hints of pear, acacia, hazelnuts and a whiff of praline over a bed of oak. In the mouth it has a saline feel with a slightly creamy flow and pert freshness. A long-lasting wine.

Winemaker Description 

Chianti Classico from One of Gaiole's Most Revered Organic Estates

San Giusto a Rentennano is one of Chianti Classico's most celebrated family estates, farming organically in Gaiole in Chianti and producing wines of exceptional purity and elegance. Their 2020 Chianti Classico — a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo, aged 10 months in oak barrels and barriques plus 6 months in bottle — is a benchmark expression of the appellation: energetic, fragrant, and classically structured, with the kind of pure fruit and fine tannins that make it equally compelling now or over the next 6–8 years.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

• Wine Advocate — 93 pts: "The certified organic 2020 Chianti Classico is a clever blend of 90% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo from a unique growing site in Gaiole in Chianti. This vintage stands out thanks to its ample and generous fruit profile. Elegant and velvety texture. Hits all the right notes. Drink 2022–2030."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 92+ pts: "Ripe with aromas of black raspberry coulis, red flowers, sweet tobacco, and pine. Elegant and medium-bodied, with supple texture, fine tannins, and an even, well-balanced finish. Pure, classic, and balanced — a gulpable wine that will drink great now or over the coming 6–8 years. Drink 2024–2032."
• Jancis Robinson — 17++ pts: "Lustrous mid ruby. An elegant, fragrant raspberry nose, gorgeous supple and juicy cherry and raspberry fruit on the palate, with gripping, nutty tannins. Very long and succulent and fragrant. Drink 2022–2028."
• Vinous — 91 pts: "Super-impressive. The purity of the fruit is really quite compelling. Dark cherry, plum, cedar, incense and licorice build nicely in a mid-weight Chianti Classico that hits all the right notes. Drink 2023–2032."
• Wine Spectator — 90 pts: "Dense, with solid tannins and lively acidity supporting expressive cherry, raspberry, iron and earth flavors. Balanced and long. Drink now through 2028."

Winemaker Notes

A Chianti of traditional style — energetic and elegant, with beautiful complexity and cleanliness on the nose. Aromas of ripe red fruit and spicy notes lead to an agile, fresh, and soft palate. Aged at least 10 months in oak barrels and barriques, plus 6 months in bottle.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Blend: 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG, Gaiole in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
• Producer: San Giusto a Rentennano
• Vintage: 2020
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Production: 51,872 bottles
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic Tuscan pairing — exceptional with bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, pasta al ragù, aged Pecorino, and grilled lamb chops.

Bodegas Muga Rioja Reserva — Rioja DOCa 2022 — 375ml Half Bottle

Bodegas Muga was founded in 1932 by Isaac Muga and Aurora Caño in the emblematic Station District of Haro — the historic heart of Rioja. Nearly a century on, the family still crafts wine the way it has always been done: hand-harvested grapes, fermentation in oak vats with indigenous yeasts, 22 months of aging in barrels made in their own cooperage (90% French, 10% American oak), traditional clarification with fresh egg whites, and a minimum of 9 months of bottle rest before release. The 2022 vintage earned 93 points from Wine Advocate and landed at #51 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2024. Now available in a 375ml half bottle — the perfect format for a serious weeknight red or an intimate dinner for two.

The nose shows great aromatic intensity — ripe red and black fruit, cedary spice, leather, violet, and delicate hints of undergrowth. On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied, concentrated but sleek and polished, with fine-grained, silky tannins and very supple flavors. The aging is beautifully integrated, enhancing freshness and complexity. The finish is long and chalky, with perfectly balanced acidity. Drink now or cellar for several more years.

Wine Advocate 93 — "Medium- to full-bodied, concentrated but sleek and polished, with fine-grained tannins, very supple flavors and a chalky finish." (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Bodegas Muga, Haro, Rioja, Spain
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Blend: Tempranillo, Garnacha Tinta, Mazuelo, Graciano
• Style: Red Wine — Reserva, Unfiltered
• Aging: 22 months in French & American oak (own cooperage) + 9 months bottle rest
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Production: 945,000 bottles
• Tasting Notes: Red and black fruit, cedar, leather, violet, undergrowth, fine-grained tannins, chalky finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar several years
• Best Paired With: Beef steak, lamb, sausages, stews, aged cheeses

A 93-point, Top 100 Rioja Reserva in a perfect half bottle — Bodegas Muga is the benchmark for what classic, family-crafted Spanish red wine can be.

Bonterra Vineyards · Mendocino County · 2023

Bonterra believes great wine begins with healthy, living soil. The vineyards are farmed organically and sustainably, with native flowers, beneficial insects, songbirds, chickens, and sheep all part of a thoughtful approach to working the land. Sourced from Mendocino County vineyards with varied microclimates and soils, this Pinot Noir is bright, complex, and fruit-forward.

Hand-harvested fruit is gently de-stemmed and cold-soaked for three days before fermentation, then aged for ten months in 100% French oak. Strawberry, raspberry, and Bing cherry meet vanilla, oak spice, crushed herbs, earth, and mineral, while soft tannins carry the wine into a long, graceful finish.

Wine Enthusiast: 90 points — Tonya Pitts
“Warm, simmering spices permeate the aromas of Bing cherry preserve, dark strawberry, and crushed herbs on the nose. Flavors on the palate bring together orange segments, raspberry-rhubarb, sagebrush, earth, and mineral on the finish.” (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Bonterra Vineyards
• Farming: Certified organic and sustainably farmed
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Region: Mendocino County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Winemaking: Hand-harvested, three-day cold soak, aged ten months in 100% French oak
• Tasting notes: Strawberry, raspberry, Bing cherry, vanilla, oak spice, crushed herbs, earth, and mineral
• Pair with: Roasted salmon, duck breast, mushroom risotto, earthy pasta, roast chicken, soft cheeses, or charcuterie
• Size: 750ml

A bright, organic California Pinot Noir with 90-point pedigree, silky texture, and savory Mendocino character.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling 90 Points | Striking aromas of cardamom, cloves and dried flowers. Very good balance of restrained richness, fine-grained tannin and bitterness on the medium-bodied palate. Surprisingly dry finish.

Winemaker Notes

A bright colour with clear legs that herald what is to come, the aromas rapidly announcing a charming and almost heady wine. Delicate floral notes of rose and jasmine interact with hints of yellow fruit — peach, Mirabelle — and tropical fruit: lychee, mango, dragon fruit. The bouquet is expressive but retains a sense of refinement and nuance, a true Hugel wine. On the palate it is fine and delicate, inviting you to travel afar and enjoy it with strongly flavoured dishes.

Food Pairing

Gewurztraminer is an invitation to accompany a variety of spicy Asian dishes as well as smoked salmon and strong cheeses.

• Grape Source: 100% Gewurztraminer
• Appellation: Alsace
• Location: France
• Producer: Famille Hugel
• Style: Aromatic, dry finish

The Secret Ingredient Is Dirt — Brendel’s Multi-Vineyard Napa Cabernet

Brendel sources from some of Napa Valley’s most coveted sites — the eastern side of Rutherford, the highest elevations of Howell Mountain, two diverse plots in St. Helena, and a steep parcel in Oak Knoll. Their philosophy is simple: great wine starts with great dirt. The 2021 Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon is a fresh, vibrant expression of Napa’s famed grape — harvested under moonlight, fermented cool, and aged 9 months in upright oak casks to preserve bright red and black fruit character.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Made by the Heitz team led by winemaker Brittany Sherwood, Brendel's 2021 Cooper's Reed Cabernet Sauvignon now includes a sufficient amount of Sonoma fruit to carry a North Coast AVA on the label—this vintage is approximately two-thirds Napa and one-third Sonoma, and the blend includes 5% Petite Sirah and 1% Merlot. Still made in old oak vats to avoid overt wood influence and just medium-bodied, it's something of a throwback stylistically. Although the fruit is quite obvious upfront, combining black cherries and blackberries, the wine is streamlined and somewhat restrained on the palate, finishing with ample length, hints of star anise and a silky texture. (Vintage 2021). 

As Featured In

San Francisco Chronicle — “Their range of wines are made from some of the best sites in Napa’s most renowned regions. Each vineyard is chosen for its quality and unique aptitude, with soil types ranging from volcanic to clay to bring out the best in each grape. It’s, as they put it, good dirt.”

Winemaker Notes

Brendel Cabernet Sauvignon Cooper’s Reed Napa Valley 2021 750ml

Harvested under moonlight and crushed at cool temperatures, this Cab is thoughtfully monitored throughout fermentation. After 7–10 days, it’s gently pressed to upright oak casks for 9 months of maturation. Fruit sourced from prized Napa and Sonoma vineyards delivers mouthwatering structure with bright red and black fruit throughout.

— Brittany Sherwood, Director of Winemaking

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Key Sites: Rutherford, Howell Mountain, St. Helena, Oak Knoll
• Producer: Brendel
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural Napa Cab pairing — excellent with grilled ribeye, roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, aged gouda, and hearty pasta.

Luca Roagna's Langhe Rosso is a masterclass in Piedmontese restraint — a Nebbiolo-based blend from the Pajé vineyard in Barbaresco, crafted to be approachable in its youth while carrying the hallmark depth and complexity of the estate. The 2020 vintage delivers a multifaceted, savory expression with vibrant acidity and silky structure.

Regenerative Agriculture. 

• Producer: Roagna
• Region: Langhe, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Vintage: 2020
• Format: 750ml

• 94 James Suckling

  A multifaceted wine, super rich and profound, with aromas of embers, dried cherries, wild strawberries, violets and bright blood oranges. Medium-bodied and slightly firm, with dusty tannins coated by fruit. Very tasty, savory, slightly lifted and citrusy.

• 91 Wine Spectator

  This red exudes cherry, rose hip and mineral flavors, with vibrant acidity and pliable tannins. Balanced overall, with staying power on the finish.

The finest Malartic-Lagravière ever made. Six of the world's top critics agree — the 2022 is a historic achievement for this Pessac-Léognan estate. "Awesome levels of blackcurrants, darker cherries, roasted herbs, chocolate, and scorched earth. Incredibly concentrated, rich, layered beauty with velvety tannins and a blockbuster finish. Easily the finest I've tasted from this château. Deserves 4-6 years in the cellar and will keep for two decades or more."

• James Suckling 97 Points | "Surprisingly fresh, showing depth, innate balance and complexity. Mineral-etched fruit turns glossy with cassis, berries, plums, spices and a hint of violets. One of the best ever."
• Decanter 96 Points | "Gorgeous fragrant red berry fruit, creamy and juicy with crystalline fruit, acidity and integrated tannins. Harmonised and balanced with tension and poise. A real joy with plenty of ageing potential."
• Wine Enthusiast 95 Points | "Powerful, with concentrated black fruits and a structure that promises serious aging. Drink from 2028."
• Vinous 95 Points | "A pretty sexy wine. Dark cherry, plum, licorice, chocolate, new leather and spice. Dense and packed to the core with formidable intensity."
• Wine Spectator 93 Points | "Warm plum, black currant and black cherry compote, inlaid with singed alder and black tea. Very solid."
• Wine Advocate 92 Points | "Classic, elegant bouquet of cassis, mulberries, flowers and spices. Elegantly juicy with a spicy, long finish."

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby-garnet with brilliant clarity
• Nose: Blackcurrant, dark cherry, roasted herbs, chocolate, scorched earth and violets
• Palate: Concentrated dark fruit, cassis, plum and licorice with velvety tannins and layered complexity
• Finish: Blockbuster length with spice, graphite and exceptional persistence

Production Details

• Château: Malartic-Lagravière
• Appellation: Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Cru Classé de Graves
• Blend: 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, Petit Verdot & Cabernet Franc
• Élevage: 20 months in 60% new French oak
• Production: ~8,000 cases
• Vintage: 2022 | Format: 750ml
• Cellaring: 4–6 years recommended; will keep 20+ years
  

Château Malartic-Lagravière is one of Pessac-Léognan's most celebrated Cru Classé estates, renowned for wines of precision, depth, and extraordinary longevity. The 2022 vintage, shaped by exceptional growing conditions, has produced what many critics are calling the greatest wine in the château's history. Pairs magnificently with aged beef, lamb, truffle dishes, and fine aged cheeses.

A 93-Point Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel from One of Bordeaux's Most Historic Estates

Château du Taillan is a classified French historical monument owned by the Cruse family, one of Bordeaux's most storied dynasties. Their 2019 Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel is a textbook expression of what makes the 2019 vintage so exceptional — richly textured, concentrated, and built for the cellar. A Merlot-led blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this is classic Bordeaux at outstanding value.

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

Wine Enthusiast — 93 Points (Roger Voss): “Richly textured with dense black fruits and considerable potential. Power and concentration will allow it to age well. Drink from 2026.”

Tasting Notes

A classic Haut-Médoc with dense black fruit character, robust structure, and elegant tannins. Rich and concentrated on the palate with excellent aging potential — a benchmark Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel from a superb Bordeaux vintage.

Pairings: Grilled steak, roast beef, lamb, duck confit, roasted game birds, and aged French cheeses.

Product Details

• Vintage: 2019
• Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel
• Region: Bordeaux, France
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Producer: Château du Taillan (Cruse Family)

Expert Review

James Suckling by Andrii Stetsiuk 96 Points |  Joyful and juicy but also concentrated and very precise, this is a stunning cool-climate chardonnay. Brimming with sliced pear, white peach and white flower aromas. The delicate oak is already beautifully integrated on the mouth-filling yet only medium-bodied palate. Then comes a wave of toasted hazelnut flavor in the very long and super-silky finish. Drink from release.

Producer Description 

• 100% Chardonnay
• The Knoll, Lahoma Vineyard
• small sandstone hill
• Umbrella training system – results in more shading
• Cold soak overnight
• Fermented in 3 French oak large format puncheons
• Aged 10 months in the puncheons, stirred regularly
• 13% abv

As a Harvard educated Economist, Kelby made the unusual transition to wine in pursue of his passion. He also brought with him his deep love for music as a way to inspire his winemaking approach. For well over a decade, he patiently perfected his art while working at another winery. Finally in 2023, Kelby and his also-winemaker wife Julia, embarked on the adventure of their dreams and launched Apollo’s Praise. Despite the wait, the musical influence is as strong as it has ever been. Every bottle suggests an unusual pairing. Turn the bottle around to find a recommended song to listen to while enjoying a glass!

Kelby and Julia produce complex, yet approachable wines by carefully merging art and science. Every single one of them is the reflection of vintage variation, site specificity and unique varietal characteristics. Unsurprisingly, critics regard their highly-sought-after Lahoma Vineyard series as some of Finger Lakes’ best wines.

Apollo’s Praise philosophy in Kelby’s and Julia’s words: “The Best Wines are Art. They are an expression of culture and speak to where they come from, when they come from, and who they come from.”

Domaine Sigalas MM I — Mavrotragano & Mandilaria, Cyclades 2022

Domaine Sigalas is the most celebrated winery on Santorini — and one of the most important estates in all of Greece. Founded by Paris Sigalas, a mathematician turned winemaker, the domaine has spent decades proving that Santorini is not just a white wine island. The MM I is their flagship red: a 50/50 blend of Mavrotragano and Mandilaria, two of the Aegean's most ancient and distinctive indigenous red varieties, cultivated on the volcanic soils of Santorini and the Cyclades. Aged for one year in large oak casks, it is a wine of genuine character — punchy, food-driven, and unlike anything else in the world of Greek wine.

Deep crimson in the glass with a refreshing, aromatic nose of red fruit, cherry, and a finely blended bouquet of spice and earth. On the palate, it is vibrant and food-friendly with flavors of cherry, cassis, grilled watermelon, and apple cider, framed by firm, bitter tannins and lively acidity. Best served slightly cooler than a typical red to maximize its freshness and accessibility. A wine built for the table — especially cheese-heavy dishes.

Wine Advocate 91 Points — "Punchy flavors of cherry, cassis, grilled watermelon and apple cider. The tannins are bitter, and it might help to serve this wine one or two degrees cooler than normal to make it more accessible. It is inherently food-friendly, especially with cheese-heavy dishes like lasagna or pizza." (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Domaine Sigalas, Santorini, Cyclades, Greece
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Cyclades PGI, Aegean Islands
• Blend: 50% Mavrotragano, 50% Mandilaria
• Aging: 12 months in large oak casks
• Style: Medium-Bodied, Vibrant, Food-Driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cherry, cassis, grilled watermelon, apple cider, firm tannins, lively acidity
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2029
• Best Paired With: Lasagna, pizza, lamb chops, grilled meats, aged cheeses, moussaka
• Serve: 58–62°F (serve slightly cooler than a typical red)

91 points from Wine Advocate — Domaine Sigalas MM I is Santorini's most exciting red: ancient grapes, volcanic soils, and a flavor profile unlike anything else.

The Original Super Tuscan — Sassicaia at Its Most Compelling

No wine better defines the Super Tuscan movement than Sassicaia. Created by Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta in the 1940s and first commercially released in 1968, Sassicaia pioneered the use of Cabernet Sauvignon on the Tuscan coast and forever changed the landscape of Italian fine wine.

By 1994, Sassicaia's reputation was so singular that it was granted its own DOC — Bolgheri Sassicaia — the only single-estate DOC in Italy. It remains the world's first and most celebrated Super Tuscan, still owned by the noble Incisa della Rocchetta family.

The Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri 2023 is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Cabernet Franc, aged 24 months in 40% new French oak. The 2023 vintage was shaped by a cold winter, above-average rainfall, and a severe outbreak of downy mildew that forced brutal fruit selection and a 20% reduction in yields — a vintage of pressure and sacrifice that, like the legendary 1985, produced diamonds. The result is a Sassicaia of uncanny openness and generosity in its youth: wild sage, rosemary, dark fruit, crushed stone, rose petal, pink peppercorn, bergamot, and blood orange on the nose; chalky tannins, bright acidity, and a saline coastal freshness on the palate; and a long, persistent, mineral finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a perfect 100 points. In Magnum — the ideal format for long-term cellaring.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• Wine Advocate — 100 Points: "Very few vintages of this legendary

Château Haut Gaudin · Bordeaux Supérieur · Bordeaux · France · 2020

Château Haut Gaudin is a classic Right Bank Bordeaux estate producing Merlot-dominant blends in the Bordeaux Supérieur appellation — the category that consistently delivers the best value in all of Bordeaux. The 2020 vintage is one of the finest in recent memory for the region: a warm, dry growing season with ideal ripening conditions that produced wines of exceptional concentration, structure, and longevity. At this price point, the Haut Gaudin 2020 is a remarkable over-achiever, earning 91 points from Decanter and offering classic Bordeaux character with genuine depth and elegance.

Deep ruby in the glass, the wine opens with earthy aromas of red and black plum, spice, and leather — the hallmarks of well-made Right Bank Bordeaux. On the palate, it is soft and flexible with lovely, ripe tannins, fruity notes recalling ripe grapes, and a long, satisfying finish. Approachable now, with the structure to reward a few more years in the cellar.

“Earthy, red and black plum flavours with spicy, leathery notes, lovely tannins and a long finish.”
— Decanter · 91 Points · Vintage 2020

• Producer: Château Haut Gaudin, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Bordeaux Supérieur AOC
• Primary Varietal: Merlot
• Style: Dry red — soft, elegant, fruit-forward
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red plum, black plum, earthy spice, leather, ripe fruit, long finish
• Pairings: Grilled red meats, lamb chops, duck confit, aged cheeses, charcuterie

Decanter 91 · Bordeaux Supérieur 2020 — classic Right Bank Merlot from one of Bordeaux’s finest recent vintages. Exceptional value.

The Marcel Lapierre Morgon Cuvée S Organic 2024 is a fantastic expression of Morgon, one of the Beaujolais Crusin France. The Morgon appellation is known for its rich, more structured wines compared to other Beaujolais wines, thanks to the granitic soils and the unique character of the Gamay grape.

The Marcel Lapierre Morgon Cuvée S Organic 2024 is a 100% organic wine from a producer that is legendary for its natural winemaking approach. This cuvée offers a perfect balance of fruitiness, earthiness, and subtle complexity. You can expect red berry aromas (think raspberry and cherry) combined with hints of minerality and a touch of spicy complexity from the granite soils of Morgon. The wine is made using traditional, natural methods, meaning it’s fermented with indigenous yeasts and sees minimal intervention in the winery.

• Taste: On the palate, it's vibrant, with smooth tannins, fresh acidity, and a bit of garrigue or herbs in the background. It's an approachable yet deeply satisfying wine that showcases the purity and character of the Morgon terroir.

• Finish: The finish is long and fresh, with some subtle earthy notes, making it a great match with a variety of foods, from charcuterie to roasted meats.

The Cuvée S designation hints at a more selected and special vineyard parcel, likely offering a slightly more refined expression of Morgon. This wine is the epitome of the natural wine movement in Beaujolais, where you get a wine that speaks directly to the region's terroir.

Expert Review

Neal Martin writes:  The 2024 Morgon that I tasted from barrel came from the first and third pickings. There is plenty of vivacious white-tipped strawberry and Morello cherry on the nose. The palate is lively and very citrus-driven with red cherries, orange zest, noticeably "punchy" acidity and a chalky finish.  - Vinous 90-92

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

James Suckling 92 Points | An elegant wine that’s dry and fruity, with a lovely creamy texture and suppleness on the palate. Fresh and poised, with a medium-long finish. A very good rosé made from 46% cinsault, 37% grenache, 13% syrah and 4% mourvedre.

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James Suckling 92 Points | Ripe dark berries, grilled herbs, licorice, ground cloves and walnuts on the nose. Full-bodied, dense and creamy, with velvety tannins and a fruit-forward, seductive aftertaste. Succulent and concentrated. Drink or hold.

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

James Suckling 92 Points | A juicy, vibrant and fruity blend of malbec, bonarda and petit verdot. Aromas of red cherries, berries and touches of citrus and potpourri. Fresh and brambly, with a medium body and small-grained fruit tannins.

Jeio Prosecco Superiore — Valdobbiadene DOCG NV

Jeio is the approachable, fruit-forward label from Bisol1542, one of Valdobbiadene’s most celebrated Prosecco houses with roots stretching back nearly five centuries. This Prosecco Superiore DOCG is sourced from the steep hillside vineyards of Valdobbiadene — a UNESCO World Heritage landscape — where the Glera grape finds its most expressive, aromatic form. Elegant, lively, and built for the moment. James Suckling awarded it 91 points.

The nose is fresh and inviting: lemon, lime, spiced pear, and white flowers with a fine, persistent perlage. On the palate, it is smooth, medium-bodied, and flavorful — bright citrus fruit and delicate fruitiness balanced by a clean, refreshing finish. The ideal aperitif, and a natural companion to the table.

🇮🇹 James Suckling 91 — “A fresh and lively Prosecco with lots of lemon and lime character, as well as spiced pears.”

• Producer: Jeio by Bisol1542, Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy
• Vintage: NV
• Appellation: Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
• Grape: Glera
• Style: Sparkling (Charmat method)
• Serve: 8°C (46°F) in a flute
• Size: 187ml (single serving)
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, lime, spiced pear, white flowers, fine perlage, clean finish
• Best Paired With: Aperitivo, light appetizers, seafood, fresh cheeses

Bright, elegant, and unmistakably Valdobbiadene — Jeio is Prosecco Superiore done right, in a perfectly portioned single bottle.

Allegrini Valpolicella 2025 750ml

Allegrini is one of the Veneto’s most celebrated family estates — a benchmark producer in Valpolicella Classica, where some 150 hectares of exclusively estate-owned vineyards across the Fumane, Marano, and Negrar valleys yield wines of extraordinary typicity and precision. Led by Marilisa Allegrini, one of Italy’s most respected women in wine, the estate has built its reputation on wines that honor the ancient Veronese tradition while expressing the full potential of Corvina and its blending companions with elegance and freshness.

The Valpolicella DOC is the estate’s entry into the Allegrini world — a vibrant, light-bodied red that showcases the liveliness, crunch, and herbal complexity of Valpolicella Classica at its most drinkable. James Suckling rewarded the 2025 with 92 points, calling out its tension, crispness, and layered complexity. Easy to love, endlessly versatile at the table.

"Layered and light-bodied, showing assertive roasted black peppercorns with red cherries and plums enhanced by orange zest. Shining with tension, the crisp, crunchy palate is well balanced overall." — James Suckling, 92 pts. (Vintage 2025). 

• Producer: Allegrini, Fumane, Valpolicella Classica, Veneto, Italy
• Appellation: Valpolicella DOC
• Blend: Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara
• Vintage: 2025
• Farming: Sustainably farmed — exclusively estate-grown grapes
• Tasting Notes: Tart cherry, plum, raspberry, roasted black pepper, orange zest, dried oregano, thyme, crisp acidity, light-bodied, crunchy finish
• Best Paired With: Pizza, pasta al pomodoro, grilled chicken, antipasti, salumi, or lightly chilled as an aperitivo
• James Suckling: 92

The benchmark Valpolicella from one of Verona’s greatest family estates — Allegrini 2025 is the Italian red you reach for any night of the week.

One of the Douro's most celebrated expressions, Taylor Fladgate's 20 Year Old Tawny Porto is a masterclass in oxidative aging — rich, complex, and hauntingly beautiful. Blended from tawnies averaging two decades in 600-liter oak casks, it delivers the signature amber-mahogany hue, concentrated nutty depth, and lifted fruit that define great aged tawny at its finest.

Critical Acclaim

• 95 Points - James Suckling: "Saturated with burnt orange peel, caramel, candied fruit and hints of honey-coated nuts...extremely creamy, long and flavorful. Delicious all the way."
• 93 Points - Wine Spectator: "Rich, with a spicy nose...complex and elegant, delivering concentrated crème brûlée and tropical fruit notes that linger on the vibrant and buttery finish."
• 93 Points - Wine Advocate: "Simply filling the mouth on first taste...succulent and inviting, it finishes with waves of concentrated flavors. The best intersection of quality and price."

Winemaking & Aging

• Sourced from select vineyards in the Cima Corgo and Douro Superior
• Produced using Taylor Fladgate's pioneering piston fermenter (Port Toes) technique, extracting greater flavor and aroma than conventional methods
• Fermentation halted with grape spirits to preserve natural sweetness
• Aged in 600-liter oak casks, losing 3% annually to evaporation (the "Angels' Share")
• Blended from tawnies with an average of 20 years of aging
• Gains its distinctive tawny hue and nutty complexity through slow oxidative maturation

Tasting Profile

Deep amber-mahogany with a luminous rim. The nose is intoxicating — burnt orange peel, caramel, candied fig, dried apricot, mango, and honey-coated nuts. On the palate it's full-bodied and luscious: sultanas, chocolate, coffee, crème brûlée, and tropical fruit unfold with remarkable concentration and elegance. The finish is long, creamy, and vibrant with waves of layered flavor. Best served slightly chilled.

Perfect Pairings

Serve slightly chilled (55–60°F) alongside crème brûlée, pecan tart, blue cheese, foie gras, or dark chocolate. An exceptional digestif on its own, and a stunning finale to any dinner. Also makes a luxurious gift for any occasion.

Chateau Montelena · Chardonnay · Napa Valley · California · 2023 · 750ml

On May 24, 1976, Chateau Montelena's Chardonnay changed the wine world forever. In a blind tasting judged by a who’s-who of French food and wine critics — now known as the Judgment of Paris — it took first place over Burgundy’s most celebrated whites, announcing California as a serious fine wine region to a skeptical world. Nearly fifty years later, the Montelena Chardonnay remains the benchmark: a wine of extraordinary precision, minerality, and longevity that has never chased trends or compromised its identity. Winemaker Matt Crafton has described the 2023 vintage as one of the best in the last decade — a cool, mild growing season that produced wines of exceptional tension, acidity, and aging potential. At $69.99, this is a piece of California wine history in every bottle.

Brilliant pale gold in the glass with a vivid, pure nose of Meyer lemon, citrus blossom, white peach, and oyster shell minerality — linear, precise, and utterly compelling. On the palate: lush pear, lime leaf, orange blossom, and flinty minerals, with bright, racy acidity that gives the wine extraordinary shape and drive. Marcona almond notes add depth and texture through a long, elegant finish. Decanter called it “vivid, pure citrus expression with a mineral character… crisp, crunchy acidity provides shape and drive.” Winemaker Matt Crafton notes the mouthfeel is “just gorgeous with more gravitas and weight than I would have expected.” Drink now through 2035+, or cellar for a decade to watch it fully unfold. Pair with lobster, roast halibut, Dover sole, or aged Comté.

• Producer: Chateau Montelena · Winemaker Matt Crafton
• Wine: Chardonnay · Napa Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• Origin: Napa Valley, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Precise, mineral, age-worthy Napa Chardonnay
• Certifications: Sustainable
• Notable: 1976 Judgment of Paris — 1st Place
• Press: Decanter — “Vivid, pure citrus expression with a mineral character”
• Drinking Window: Now–2035+
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Meyer lemon, citrus blossom, pear, lime leaf, orange blossom, flinty minerals, Marcona almond, long elegant finish
• Pair With: Lobster · Roast halibut · Dover sole · Aged Comté

The wine that won the Judgment of Paris — Napa Chardonnay at its most precise and enduring.

Expert Review - Vintage 2018

Wine Spectator 91 Points | Distinctive and well-done, with a pronounced earthiness sharing the stage with notes of warm apple, quince and candied ginger in this late-release wine. Time has softened the acidity on a supple, savory palate, layering toasted brioche, brine and dried flower petal details. A hint of honey water graces the elegant, well-meshed finish. Drink now through 2028. 19,500 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.

Winemaker Description 

This Pinot-Gris shows some ripe fruits such as ripe pears and yellow peaches with a touch of smokiness, it is very pure and focused which makes it an ideal wine for the gastronomy. Impeccable, solar 2018 vintage with ripe and focused acidity - a dry Pinot Gris. A top seller in Alsace, ideal for all cuisines of the world.

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Opus One was born from an extraordinary partnership — Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Robert Mondavi of Napa Valley, united by a single dream: to create one wine of uncompromising quality that would stand among the world's greatest. First produced in 1979, Opus One has spent four decades refining that vision, drawing from four estate vineyards including 100 acres within the legendary To Kalon Vineyard and 70 acres in the Ballestra and River parcels. Winemaker Michael Silacci leads the estate with a rare combination of intuition and technical mastery, guiding both vineyard and cellar with equal care.

The Opus One Oakville Napa Valley 2022 750ml is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 0.5% Malbec, aged 18 months in French oak. The 2022 vintage presented extreme heat challenges, and the Opus team responded by picking early and decisively — beginning with Merlot on August 24th — to preserve freshness and purity. The result is a wine of great energy and elegance: chocolate, cherry, and rose petal on the nose, with creamy, slightly grippy tannins, juicy concentrated fruit, and a long, pure finish. Decanter calls it "a darling of a wine" — not a blockbuster, but something more refined and alive. Best from 2027–2037.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Decanter — 97 Points: "Chocolate, cherry and rose petal aromas. Juicy and lively, full of fun — fruity and concentrated. The tannins are just wonderful, creamy and slightly grippy. Long lasting with purity and delicacy. A darling of a wine."
• James Suckling — 96 Points: "Generous, with savory aromas of ripe blackcurrants and fresh black cherries. Graphite, pencil shavings, cocoa and espresso. Full-bodied and well structured. Best from 2028."
• Wine Advocate — 95 Points: "Ripe, extroverted personality. Rosemary and sandalwood notes accent cherries on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, expansive and plush, finishing with ample length and soft tannins."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 94 Points: "Very pretty, elegant, and seamless. Red and black fruits with fresh flowers and baking spices. Fresh, elegant, lively mouthfeel with fine tannins and a great finish."
• Vinous — 92+ Points: "Soft, relatively easygoing with terrific brightness throughout. Tannins are a bit searing at this stage — will be interesting to see how things shake out."
• Wine Spectator — 92 Points: "Lighter-bodied, fresher profile with red currant, damson plum and cherry coulis, tobacco and rose petal. Best from 2027 through 2037."

Wine Details

• 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 0.5% Malbec
• Oakville AVA, Napa Valley, California — To Kalon Vineyard & estate parcels
• Aged 18 months in French oak
• Vintage: 2022 | Drink 2027–2037 | 750ml

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Michael Alberty of the Wine Enthusiast writes 93 Points | Every year I marvel at how such a marvelous Riesling can be $20. The Poet's Leap opens with an aromatic ode to lychee fruit, honeysuckle, almond butter and a wisp of petrol. Lemony acidity curls itself around flavors like green honeydew melon, rose water and the sweetness of a slice of peach pie. The 2023 is as good as any in recent memory. Mercy.

Vinous 90 Points | The 2023 Riesling Poet's Leap is delicate and understated, with notes of shaved lemon zest, green melon, mint and hints of petrol. It mixes ripe orchard fruits and salty mineral tones with a core of brilliant acidity. This finishes with medium length and remarkable lift, leaving a suggestion of citrus sorbet on the finish.

Winery Notes

The 2023 Poet's Leap Riesling is a beautiful, vibrant wine showcasing aromas of white blossoms and ripe orchard fruits, complemented by subtle flinty notes. Exuding freshness and brightness on the palate, the wine unveils layers of flavor, notably white peach, green apple and a distinct minerality. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a balanced impression of lively acidity and a subtle touch of sweetness.

Discover Hedges Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Discover the bold character of Washington State's acclaimed Red Mountain AVA with Hedges Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2022. Crafted by the renowned Hedges Family Estate using sustainable farming practices, this exceptional Cabernet showcases the unique microclimate and terroir that make Red Mountain one of the premier wine regions in the Pacific Northwest. Each 750ml bottle delivers a rich, structured wine with remarkable depth and aging potential.

Tasting Profile

This Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon presents a deep, rich color and offers enticing aromas of blackberry, cassis, black plums, anise, fig, and cedar, complemented by notes of cardamom, fresh leather, graphite, dried herbs, dusty cocoa, and cinnamon. The palate is lush, rich, and round, featuring layers of black cherry, plum, and dark fruit coated in firm, sandy tannins. Bitter chocolate and char accents add complexity, while balanced acidity provides structure. The wine finishes long and tense with lingering graphite and cocoa notes.

Expert Recognition - Prior Vintage 

James Suckling - 93 Points (2021 Vintage)
"Dense and dark, with aromas of cedar, cinnamon and black plums, then tight on the palate as bitter chocolate and black cherries are coated in firm, sandy tannins. Char and graphite accents build and linger on the finish."

Perfect Pairings

• Grilled steaks and prime rib
• Rich pasta dishes with meat sauces
• Braised short ribs and lamb
• Aged cheeses and charcuterie
• Hearty stews and roasted meats

Red Mountain Excellence

Hedges Family Estate has established a stellar reputation for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon from Red Mountain's distinctive terroir. The region's warm days, cool nights, and well-drained soils create ideal conditions for developing concentrated flavors and balanced structure. This 2022 vintage can be enjoyed now for its vibrant fruit character or cellared for years to develop more nuanced complexity. A smart addition to any wine collection and perfect for both special celebrations and memorable dinners.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

Year’s Best US Chardonnay - Wine & Spirits Magazine

James Suckling 94 Points | Grilled pineapple, apricot, hawthorn, burnt lime and flint on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with bright acidity and a sleek, creamy texture. Balanced, fresh and long. Beautiful expression. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink now or hold. 

Winemaker Description 

The 2019 'Dundee Hills Chardonnay' is a regional blend showcasing the best of the Dundee Hills AVA. Refined aromas of nectarines, honeysuckle, and bee pollen ascend from the glass, coalescing with notes of citrus peel. Layers upon layers of richness extend across the palate and crescendo to a seamless, persistent finish with lingering notes of lemon drop candy. 

This wine has the energy and drive to drink young or over the next decade. This wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered showing our commitment to minimal intervention winemaking. Winemaker Description. 

Pellegrino Dry Old Marsala Superiore Secco is a benchmark expression of Sicily's most storied fortified wine, crafted by Cantine Pellegrino — one of Marsala's oldest and most respected houses, founded in 1880 in the sun-drenched western tip of the island. Aged to Superiore classification, this is a Marsala of genuine depth and complexity, made in the traditional dry (secco) style that showcases the wine's savory, nutty character without the sweetness of commercial versions.

Amber in the glass with warm golden highlights. The nose is immediately compelling: iodine, dried fig, roasted almond, and singed orange peel, with a whisper of ground clove and toffee that speaks to careful oxidative aging. On the palate, the wine is rich, smooth, and finely balanced — creamy in texture, with intense dried fruit flavors, a nutty core, and a long, lingering finish of clove and orange peel. Dry, complex, and deeply Sicilian.

Awarded 90 Points by Wine Spectator, this Marsala Superiore Secco is a rare find at this price — a serious fortified wine that rewards both the curious and the connoisseur. Superiore designation requires a minimum of two years of aging, and Pellegrino's meticulous cellaring shows in every sip.

Serve at room temperature as an aperitif, or well chilled alongside Parmigiano-Reggiano, prosciutto, pizza, or roasted nuts. An essential ingredient in classic Sicilian cooking — Chicken Marsala, Veal Marsala, and zabaglione.

High on the terraced slopes above the River Anoia, where marine soils hold the memory of an ancient sea, Raventós i Blanc has been quietly redefining what sparkling wine can be. The De La Finca is their most personal expression — drawn exclusively from vineyards first classified by Pepe Raventós’s grandfather, on plots of singular character that demand lower yields and reward patience above all else.

The 2022 is a blend of 60% Xarel·lo, 30% Macabeu, and 10% Parellada, whole-cluster pressed and fermented in concrete to preserve freshness and build for longevity. After reférmenting in bottle, it ages no fewer than 30 months on the lees, sealed with cork — a commitment to complexity that few producers in Catalonia match. Bone dry, unadjusted, and released as a Brut Nature. Certified organic and biodynamic.

The result is a sparkling wine of extraordinary precision: a bright, almost luminous yellow-gold with tiny, tightly integrated bubbles. The nose is expressive and layered — yeasts, Mediterranean herbs, white almond, chalk, and a subtle mineral salinity drawn from the fossil-rich limestone beneath the vines. On the palate it is vibrant and clean, with ample mousse, real weight and volume, and a long, phenolic finish that speaks of place and time in equal measure.

• Appellation: Conca del Riu Anoia, Catalonia, Spain
• Blend: 60% Xarel·lo, 30% Macabeu, 10% Parellada
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Method: Traditional Method, 30+ months on lees
• Style: Brut Nature (bone dry, unadjusted)
• Production: 55,000 bottles

Expert Reviews:

93 Wine Advocate — “Vibrant, clean and precise palate, super tasty… a generous wine from a generous year.”

92 James Suckling — “Almost bone-dry on the palate, with an ample mousse and very good weight and volume.”

Food Pairings: Oysters, grilled langoustine, aged Manchego, or simply as an aperitif on its own terms.

Alexander Valley Vineyards is a family-owned estate with deep roots in one of California's most celebrated wine regions. The winery traces its lineage to 1840, when Cyrus Alexander arrived in the valley that now bears his name and declared it "the brightest and the best spot in the world." Today, the estate is guided by the Wetzel family, who have farmed these lands for generations with a commitment to sustainable viticulture and a singular focus on expressing the character of Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Alexander Valley AVA sits in northern Sonoma County, sheltered by the Mayacamas Mountains to the east and the coastal ranges to the west. The valley's warm days and cool nights create ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon, allowing the grapes to develop full, ripe flavors while retaining the freshness and structure that define the appellation. With nearly 15,000 acres of winegrapes planted, Alexander Valley has earned its reputation as one of California's premier Cabernet destinations.

The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from estate-grown fruit, harvested at optimal ripeness and vinified with care to preserve the varietal's natural depth and elegance. The wine undergoes fermentation followed by aging in oak, building structure and complexity while maintaining the bright, fruit-forward character that Alexander Valley is known for.

The 2022 vintage opens with a fresh, mineral-driven nose of red currants, cassis, tea leaves, and red peppercorns. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, delivering lingering notes of cherries, pine, tomato leaf, and warm spice. Polished and precise, with excellent balance and a long, satisfying finish.

"A fresh, mineral-driven nose showing notes of red currants, tea leaves, cassis and red peppercorns. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins, bright acidity and lingering notes of cherries, pine, tomatoes and spices."
— James Suckling, 92 Points. (Vintage 2022).

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: California, United States
Appellation: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
Vintage: 2022
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Prime rib, grilled ribeye, lamb chops, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta with meat sauce.

Silvio Grasso · Barolo DOCG · Piedmont 2022 · 375ml Half Bottle

The Grasso family has made wine in Piedmont since 1927. Federico Grasso began bottling the estate's wines in 1980, building Silvio Grasso's reputation in Barolo; today his son Alessio, daughter-in-law Marilena, and grandsons Paolo and Silvio run the family estate. Its 11 hectares of vineyards sit in the heart of La Morra.

The estate's modern approach centers on preserving Nebbiolo's purity and elegance. Silvio Grasso favors large barrels over barriques and uses less than 30% new oak even for single-vineyard wines, aiming for finesse over overt wood character. This 375ml half bottle is a measured pour for a smaller dinner or a thoughtful introduction to Barolo.

The 2022 vintage shows subtle cherry, pomegranate, and dried-herb notes, with a savory edge and chalky, integrated tannins. James Suckling describes it as balanced, harmonious, and accessible.

James Suckling · 91 Points · 2022

James Suckling: “Subtle cherries with pomegranate and dried herbs. Medium- to full-bodied with a savory touch, complemented by chalky, angular, integrated tannins that add lift. Balanced, harmonious and accessible. Drink or hold.”

Food Pairings

Braised beef, osso buco, roasted lamb, truffle risotto, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, and other Piedmontese classics.

At a Glance

• Producer: Silvio Grasso
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Varietal: Nebbiolo
• Size: 375ml, half bottle
• Rating: 91 points, James Suckling

A focused half-bottle expression of Barolo, with Nebbiolo's savory character and a polished, approachable frame.

Explore the Charm of Montalcino Red Fan

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins 67wino.shop | Bright ruby in the glass with an aromatic bouquet of cherries, raspberries, violets, black pepper and baking spices. Full bodied and lush in the mouth with rich fruit and harmonious freshness that lingers into the long, persistent finish. A good balance of lifted acidity and elegant tannins add versatility and food friendliness to this delicious offering. Serve with red meat, aged cheeses and pasta with tomato sauce dishes.

Winemaker Description

Bright ruby in the glass with an aromatic bouquet cherry and raspberry fruit, violets and savory spices. Full bodied and well structured with excellent Sangiovese character.

Harmonious and elegantly mannered with a good tannins and a long, flavorful finish.

Serve at 16-17°C with pici pasta with Cinta Senese ragù, chicken cacciatore, grilled , and eggplant parmigiana.

Memo Summary Notes

The Ventolaio Rosso di Montalcino 2023 is a vibrant, early-access expression of Sangiovese Grosso from the esteemed Montalcino region. Often referred to as "Baby Brunello," this Rosso offers the pedigree of its older sibling but with a more energetic, fruit-forward profile that is ready to enjoy much sooner.

Rosso di Montalcino is incredibly food-friendly due to its high acidity and moderate body:

• Italian Staples: Pappardelle with wild boar ragu, mushroom risotto, or lasagna.

• Meats: Roasted veal, herb-crusted pork loin, or grilled sausages.

• Casual: Thin-crust pizza with prosciutto and arugula.

• Cheese: Medium-aged Pecorino Toscano or Taleggio.

What Makes Montalcino Red Fan Unique?

The Montalcino Red Fan, like the Ventolaio Rosso di Montalcino 2023, stands out for its exceptional quality. This wine blends rich flavors and aromas, resulting in an unforgettable drinking experience. With hints of dark berries and subtle spice, it perfectly embodies the essence of Tuscany. Because of its meticulous production process, wine enthusiasts will find its complexity delightful.

Tasting Notes and Characteristics

Upon tasting the Ventolaio Rosso di Montalcino 2023, you will notice its deep ruby color and enticing aromas. The first sip reveals flavors of cherry, plum, and a touch of oak nurtured by aging in fine barrels. It has a well-balanced structure, soft tannins, and a finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Therefore, this wine complements a variety of dishes, making it versatile for any occasion.

Pairing Suggestions for Your Enjoyment

To fully appreciate the Montalcino Red Fan, consider pairing it with hearty Italian dishes, such as pasta with rich sauces or grilled meats. However, it also pairs nicely with aged cheeses, making it perfect for a cozy evening with friends. The rich flavors of this wine will enhance your dining experience, and because of its versatility, it is a wonderful addition to your collection or a thoughtful gift for any wine lover.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

The Wine Spectator 95 Points | This is supple and complex, delivering cherry, strawberry, summer meadow, earth, leather and iron aromas and flavors. Firmly structured, this picks up a hint of licorice as it winds down on the lingering finish, with tannins that are solid yet civilized. Shows fine potential. Best from 2028 through 2046. 1,670 cases made, 540 cases imported.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | The medium red 2020 Barolo Cascina Nuova is spiced and fruity with notes of ripe grenadine, pink peppercorn, dried apricots, and polished leather. Open and approachable, it offers ripe, supple tannins, even acidity, and a clean finish with good length. It’s a very charming wine with a wide drinking window for enjoyment over the next 10 years.