All Wine On Sale

Expert Reviews | Vintage 2020 

96 Points James Suckling | This Spatlese beams you up to Cloud 9, from where you have a wonderful view over the beautiful Mosel Valley. In spite of the considerable concentration, this is super-delicate and precise on the barely medium-bodied palate. Enormously long finish, where you barely feel the natural grape sweetness. Drink or hold. 

95 Points Wine Advocate | The 2020 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese is pure, clear and flinty on the concentrated nose that is reminiscent of a fresh fruit salad served on a slate plate on an early summer morning. Light, lush and highly finessed but seriously structured on the palate, this is a savory, very clear and elegant Sonnenuhr Spätlese with great precision and finesse and highly stimulating salinity and mouth-watering grip on the finish. Rating: 95+ 

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Buttery Chardonnay — California (3.0L Box)

Woodbridge is Robert Mondavi’s everyday label — built on the same philosophy of quality and approachability that defined Mondavi’s legacy, delivered at a price that makes it a pantry staple. The Buttery Chardonnay is Woodbridge’s richest, most indulgent expression: fermented in stainless steel with a portion aged on oak to build a full, creamy mouthfeel without sacrificing freshness. It is California Chardonnay at its most crowd-pleasing — richer and creamier than the classic Woodbridge Chardonnay, and built for the kind of everyday enjoyment that a 3-liter box makes effortless. The bag-in-box format keeps wine fresh for up to four weeks after opening, making it the smart choice for entertaining, weeknight pours, or keeping the fridge stocked.

Aromas of toasty vanilla and warm spice lead into flavors of golden delicious apple and tropical fruit, finishing long, smooth, and satisfying. Rich, buttery, and endlessly approachable.

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, California, USA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: California
• Style: Buttery, creamy, oaked white wine
• Format: 3.0L Box (equivalent to 4 standard bottles)
• Freshness: Stays fresh up to 4 weeks after opening
• Tasting Notes: Toasty vanilla, warm spice, golden apple, tropical fruit, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled salmon, fettuccine carbonara, roasted nuts, light salads, soft cheeses

California’s most beloved buttery Chardonnay in a 3-liter box — Woodbridge delivers four bottles’ worth of crowd-pleasing white wine that stays fresh for weeks.

Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Sancerre Terre de Maimbray Rosé Organic — Loire Valley 2025

Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy are among the most respected names in Sancerre, farming their vines sustainably in the appellation’s most prized terroir. The Terre de Maimbray Rosé is sourced from 30- to 60-year-old Pinot Noir vines grown in Terres Blanches — the Kimmeridgian marl and pure chalk soils that define Sancerre’s mineral identity. Grapes are hand-harvested and direct-pressed (rosé de presse), then fermented in stainless steel and aged on fine lees over winter to add subtle textural roundness before bottling. The result is a rosé of exceptional clarity and energy.

The nose is vibrant and mineral-accented: fresh strawberry, tangerine, and quince with subtle herb and floral nuances. On the palate it is concentrated yet lithe, offering sappy red berry and citrus fruit flavors that deepen steadily on the back half, with the mineral note returning strong on a long, seamless finish. Serve well-chilled alongside fresh summer tomato salads, goat cheese tarts, green vegetables, or grilled salmon — or simply on its own as the finest rosé aperitif you can pour.

🇫🇷 “Vibrant, mineral-accented strawberry, tangerine, and quince scents, along with subtle herb and floral nuances. The mineral note comes back strong on the long, seamless finish, which shows excellent clarity.”

• Producer: Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy
• Appellation: Sancerre AOP, Loire Valley, France
• Vintage: 2025
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Terroir: Terres Blanches — Kimmeridgian marl and pure chalk, vines 30–60 years old
• Vinification: Direct press, stainless steel fermentation, lees aging over winter
• Farming: Sustainable / Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Best Served: Well-chilled, 46–50°F
• Pairs With: Tomato salads, goat cheese tarts, green vegetables, grilled salmon

A benchmark Sancerre rosé — mineral, precise, and built for the table.

Winemaker Description 

Kinishihai Yukikage ‘Snow Shadow’ Tokubetsu Junmai — Niigata, Japan (300ml)

Kinishihai is brewed in Niigata Prefecture — one of Japan's most revered sake-producing regions, celebrated for its cold winters, pristine snowmelt water, and the distinctive ‘tanrei karakuchi’ style: clean, dry, and refined sake of exceptional elegance and food-friendliness. Yukikage — meaning ‘Snow Shadow’ — is a Tokubetsu Junmai, a special designation within the Junmai category indicating a higher level of rice polishing or a distinctive brewing technique that elevates the sake above the standard. It is crafted from a blend of two local Niigata rice varietals — Gohyaku Mangoku and Koshi Ibuki — both milled to 58% of their original size, removing the outer layers to reveal a cleaner, more refined grain. Fermented with S-3 yeast, which produces a mildly fragrant and clean profile with light earthy qualities, Yukikage is a true expression of the gutsy, grounded Niigata style: smooth, earthy, and built for the table. Uniquely versatile — it is equally compelling served chilled or gently warmed, making it one of the most food-friendly sakes in the glass.

The nose is mildly fragrant and inviting: toasted brown rice, light earthiness, and a clean, grounded character. On the palate, it is smooth and earthy with notes of toasty brown rice and a gentle nuttiness. Chilled, it is a natural companion for sushi, gyoza, and delicate seafood. Gently warmed, it blossoms — the perfect accompaniment for yakitori, grilled salmon, or roasted yellowtail. A sake of genuine versatility and quiet depth.

"A true gutsy Niigata style sake — smooth and earthy, with notes of toasty brown rice. When chilled it makes a great companion for a sushi platter or gyoza dumplings, but when gently warmed it blossoms into the perfect accompaniment for yakitori, grilled salmon or roasted yellowtail." — Kinishihai, Producer

• Brewery: Kinishihai, Niigata Prefecture, Japan
• Classification: Tokubetsu Junmai
• Rice: Gohyaku Mangoku & Koshi Ibuki, milled to 58%
• Yeast: S-3
• Style: Niigata tanrei karakuchi — clean, dry, earthy
• ABV: 15%
• Size: 300ml
• Tasting Notes: Toasted brown rice, light earthiness, smooth, mildly fragrant, nutty finish
• Serve: Chilled (45–50°F) or gently warmed (100–110°F)
• Best Paired With (Chilled): Sushi, gyoza, delicate sashimi, cold tofu
• Best Paired With (Warmed): Yakitori, grilled salmon, roasted yellowtail, miso soup, hearty izakaya dishes

Niigata's snow-country terroir in a 300ml bottle — Kinishihai Yukikage is smooth, earthy, and one of the most versatile sakes on the shelf.

Winemaker Description 

Tio Pepe Fino Sherry is a star bright, pale golden color. It is elegant and distinctive, with fresh bread and almond aromas. The palate is full bodied, crisp and very dry, with a complex, long finish.

Perfect with canapes and tapas, Asian food, seafood and all fish based dishes. Try it with caviar, oysters, anchovies or tuna carpaccio. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review 

James Suckling 90 Points | This is the prototypical fino sherry with all the salty and yeasty character you expect. Also dried-apple, pear and lemon-zest character. Generous, but very dry and salty on the palate with a refreshing touch of austerity. Where are the olives? Drink now, if possible from a freshly opened bottle. 

Winemaker Description 

Aged following an oxidative ageing for 12 years in Bodega La Campana in Jerez de la Frontera.

Dark bronze colour with golden rim. Pungent nutty aromas with a smoky wood background. Rich flavours of bitter chocolate, walnuts and baked chestnuts. This Oloroso wine has an intense, concentrated aftertaste, lightened by a tangy acidity.

Piper-Héidsieck Champagne Brut NV — Half Bottle (375ml)

Founded in 1785, Piper-Héidsieck is one of Champagne’s most storied and celebrated houses — a name synonymous with elegance, festivity, and the art of the blend. With a history of dressing Hollywood royalty and gracing the world’s most celebrated tables, Piper-Héidsieck has long stood for a bold, fruit-forward style that is instantly recognizable and endlessly appealing. The Brut NV is the house’s signature expression: a classic, well-structured Champagne that showcases the Piper style at its most vibrant.

Crafted from fruit sourced across more than 100 of Champagne’s crus, the blend is led by Pinot Noir for structure, complemented by Pinot Meunier for fleshy fruit expression, and Chardonnay for elegance and acidity. Precious reserve wines ensure a consistent, recognizable flavor profile year after year. Now available in a convenient 375ml half-bottle — perfect for a solo celebration, a romantic dinner, or a gift.

Pale gold with a festive shimmer and lively, precise bubbles. The nose offers almond, fresh hazelnut, croissant, dried lemon, and apricot. The palate is lively and balanced — fresh pear, apple, pomelo, and juicy white fruits — with a creamy mousse, bright acidity, and a smooth, rounded finish.

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points

“Balanced between a soft Brut character and crisper lemon flavors. That balance gives a fine wine, open and easy, but with a fine bite of acidity at the end.”

Wine & Spirits — 90 Points 

“A clean Champagne, green-gold in color with the flavor of peaches just coming into ripeness. Its cool mineral savor brings to mind grapes sautéed in butter.”

James Suckling — 90 Points

“Attractive aromas of croissants, sourdough, dried lemons, apricots, figs and walnuts. Soft and balanced on the palate, with a medium body, creamy mousse and a dry, rounded finish.”

Blend: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
Appellation: Champagne AOC, France
Style: Brut NV
Format: 375ml (Half Bottle)
Scores: 90 pts WE | 90 pts W&S | 90 pts JS

Pacific Redwood · Mendocino County · 2023

Pacific Redwood makes Cabernet Sauvignon with a clear sense of place, drawing on organic fruit shaped by the redwoods and the nearby Pacific influence. The 2023 is crafted with a restrained approach, with no added sulfites, acid adjustments, sugar adjustments, or tannin additions, allowing the vineyard and vintage to speak clearly.

Huckleberry, red currant jam, orange-vanilla cream, and baking spice lead into concentrated blackberry, cardamom, and lime cream. Stainless-steel aging with French oak brings lift and gentle structure, while silky tannins carry a spicy, lingering finish.

• Producer: Pacific Redwood
• Farming: Organic
• Style: Vegan
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Region: Mendocino County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Winemaking: Stainless steel with French oak; no added sulfites or adjustments
• Tasting notes: Huckleberry, red currant, blackberry jam, orange-vanilla cream, cardamom, baking spice, and silky tannins
• Pair with: Grilled steak, burgers, roasted mushrooms, barbecue, hearty pasta, or aged cheddar
• Size: 750ml

An organic, vegan Mendocino Cabernet with wild berry fruit, savory spice, and a clean, silky finish.

Pacific Redwood · Redwood Valley · 2024

Pacific Redwood is a third-generation family winery rooted at the pristine headwaters of the Russian River in Redwood Valley, Mendocino County. The winery farms organically and biodynamically, with much of its land left as unspoiled natural habitat to support soil health, groundwater, wildlife, and vineyard biodiversity.

This 2024 Pinot Noir is bright and smooth, layering berry and spice with a crisp floral finish. The grapes are organically grown and the wine is made without added sulfites or other synthetic preservatives, allowing the character of the Redwood Valley fruit and climate to come through with minimal manipulation.

“Uncork a bottle of real Organic Pinot. Pacific Redwood doesn't stop halfway when it comes to bringing you organic wine. It's not just grown organically, but processed organically.”
— Pacific Redwood

• Producer: Pacific Redwood
• Farming: Organic and Biodynamic
• Style: Vegan
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Region: Redwood Valley, Mendocino County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Winemaking: Minimal manipulation; no added sulfites or synthetic preservatives
• Tasting notes: Berry, spice, bright fruit, and a crisp floral finish
• Pair with: Roasted salmon, mushroom dishes, roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or soft cheeses
• Size: 750ml

A bright, organic and vegan Redwood Valley Pinot Noir with pure berry fruit, gentle spice, and floral lift.

Gato Negro | Malbec | Valle Central, Chile | 1.5L Magnum

Gato Negro is one of Chile's most beloved everyday wine brands, produced by Viña San Pedro — a winery with roots dating back to 1865 and one of the most established names in South American wine. The iconic Black Cat label has built a global following for delivering consistent, fruit-forward wines at exceptional value.

Valle Central is Chile's heartland wine region, stretching between the Andes and the Coastal Range. The warm, sunny climate and well-drained soils are ideal for Malbec — producing wines with an intense ruby-violet color, generous dark fruit, and the soft, velvety tannins that make Chilean Malbec so approachable and crowd-pleasing.

Gato Negro Malbec is deep ruby-violet in the glass with fresh aromas of plum, blackberry, and dark fruit, accented by lactic notes and a subtle touch of vanilla. On the palate, soft and medium-bodied with a smooth texture, firm structure, and a lingering, fruit-forward finish. No pretension, no fuss — just a generous, easy-drinking red that delivers every time.

Now available in a generous 1.5L Magnum — perfect for entertaining, parties, and casual gatherings. Pair with grilled red meats, burgers, lamb, empanadas, pasta with tomato sauce, and aged cheeses.

• Producer: Gato Negro / Viña San Pedro
• Varietal: Malbec
• Region: Valle Central, Chile
• Style: Soft, fruit-forward, medium-bodied red
• Closure: Screwcap
• Format: 1.5L Magnum

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | The 2022 Pinot Noir Les Dijonnais comes from the oldest vines on the property, planted in 1995 with all Dijon clones. Bottled in late January of this year, the wine sports a vibrant ruby hue and shows off notes of wild raspberries, mixed berries, a hint of fresh violets, clove spice, forest herbs, and brambly earth. It’s chiseled in its structure, with coiled tannins and a good deal of youthful tension, and also offers mineral persistence, with wonderful salinity and dark undertones of earth. It demands another few years in cool cellars to soften and expand as it evolves and will drink well over the long haul. Drink 2026-2040. 590 cases were produced.

Winemaker Description 

Planted in 1995, the Dijon block is now in its prime, delivering the complexity and elegance one expects from carefully tended twenty-six-year-old vines. The 2021 “DJ,” as it is known in-house, shows characteristic black raspberry and rose hip notes. Consistent with previous vintages, it displays Asian five spice, briar and even hints of blood orange coupled with a refreshing acidity and persistent finish. It is a superior vintage, one of the best of the decade. While the 2021 Les Dijonnais Pinot Noir is delicious right now, it will reward patience after a few years in a cool cellar.  Winemaker Description.

Frontera Cabernet Sauvignon is an approachable, fruit-forward Chilean red crafted by Concha y Toro from grapes grown in the Central Valley. It delivers generous red fruit character with a smooth, easy-drinking style that makes it a dependable choice for everyday enjoyment.

The 1.5L Magnum is made for sharing, whether you're hosting a casual dinner, gathering with friends, or stocking up for the week. Expect enticing aromas of red plum and chocolate, followed by soft red fruit flavors and a rounded finish.

Product Details

• Producer: Frontera, crafted by Concha y Toro
• Region: Central Valley, Chile
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 1.5L Magnum
• Style: Fruit-forward, approachable red wine
• Tasting Notes: Red plum, chocolate, soft red fruit

Food Pairings

• Grilled ribeye or burgers
• Hearty beef stew or lamb chops
• Classic pasta with tomato or meat sauce
• Aged cheddar or gouda

A generous Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon in a crowd-friendly Magnum format, perfect for everyday meals and entertaining.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Handsomely structured and full-bodied yet refined in approach, offering blackberry and cherry flavors laced with mocha espresso and cinnamon notes that build richness toward polished tannins.

The Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | A generous and glittering Zinfandel that is both savory and mouthwatering. This wine showcases raspberry, ripe plums, tobacco and dry, forest notes. Robust and lengthy.

James Suckling 91 Points |  Aromas of blueberry tart, poached rhubarb, cigar box and sweet spices. The palate is full-bodied with firm yet integrated tannins, bright acidity and notes of black cherries, baking spices and burnt oranges. Block 28 sits at 60 meters above sea level and is planted to St. George rootstock. The wine is aged for 15 months in 65% new oak. A powerful and tightly bound wine that will age gracefully. Drink or hold.

Winemaker Description 

Hendry Block 28 is located on bench lands west of the town of Napa. This 4.17-acre block is 160 feet above sea level and has thin, stony soils. Morning fog and strong afternoon breezes from San Pablo Bay moderate the maritime climate. The vines were planted in 1998 using St. George roots and grafted with budwood selected from an old-vine Zinfandel vineyard on Mt. Veeder called the Brandlin Vineyard. The vines are spaced 6.9' x 5', cordon-trained and spur-pruned. A vertical trellis system supports the cordon and the canopy.

Mt. Veeder’s Brandlin Ranch was planted in 1926 with a Zinfandel which produces complex, intense fruit.  The character of this mountain fruit was very interesting to George. In the early days of winemaking at Hendry, he made an arrangement with the vineyard’s owner to tend the vines in exchange for the fruit. When the vineyard was sold, George was able to obtain budwood from the gnarled old vines, which he then grafted onto rootstock in Block 28, where we’ve grown it ever since. The character of the fruit remains distinct from our other Zinfandel and Primitivo cultivars. 

In 2021, bud break in Block 28 occurred April 7th. Bloom was May 24th. Harvest was on September 25th, with a yield of 2.93 tons per acre. Bloom-to-harvest period was 124 days. 

The alcoholic fermentation was completed in approximately one week in closed fermentation tanks. The wine was then pressed and put into barrels for malolactic fermentation. Aging was fifteen months in French oak barrels, approximately 65% - 75% of which are new each year. 

Deep ruby color. Big, blackberry jam aromatics jump out of the glass. Fruity on the front-palate, medium-heavy and balanced, drawing out to a firm finish of black tea tannins. This is a Zin for Zin-lovers! The bolder of our two Zinfandel offerings. Plenty of structure for burgers, braised lamb shanks, salumi, cheeses, and slow-roasted brisket. 

Cases: 1274
   

Winemaker Description 

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

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018 

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

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

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

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

Winemaker Description 

A pale and delicate light dry Sherry that is light in color. Commonly served cold as an aperitif, many consider this Spanish wine to be the world's finest Sherry. Finos are excellent when young. A delicate pale cocktail sherry noted for its fine, dry after taste. 

Winemaker Description

Peay Vineyards is a first-generation family winery. Husband and wife, Nick Peay & Vanessa Wong, grow and make the wine and brother, Andy Peay, and his wife Ami, sell the wine and run the business.

All wines are made from grapes grown on our 53-acre estate vineyard located above a river gorge in the far northwestern corner of the Sonoma Coast, 4 miles from the Pacific Ocean at Sea Ranch. We sit in the chilly inversion layer with fog and wind from the Ocean maintaining cool temperatures with plenty of sunlight.

Winemaker Vanessa Wong left her position as winemaker at Peter Michael Winery in 2001 to launch Peay Vineyards. Formerly she worked at Chateau Lafite-Rothschild, Domaine Jean Gros and Hirsch Winery.

We farm organically and maintain our licenses for fish friendly farming and integrated pest management. The health of our vineyard dictates these approaches to farming and making wine. We also run on bio-diesel at the vineyard and solar power at both the vineyard and winery.

Expert Ratings - Vintage 2021 

Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points | The 2021 Pinot Noir Ama is dark ruby, with notes of red cherry and apple skin. The palate is full-bodied and has great structure, with a broad texture, ripe tannins and notes of dark cherry, tea leaf, and forest earth. It’s long on the palate and has a good finish. (2021). 

Robert Parker 94 Points | The 2021 Estate Pinot Noir Ama is powerful and perfumed this vintage. It offers aromas broody aromas of red and black cherries and aniseed with top notes of saline and citrus peel. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and refreshing with generous berry fruit and floral accents, and it has a long, spicy finish. (2021). 

Fresh, delicate and effortlessly inviting, Marqués de Riscal Rosado brings an elegant expression of Rioja to the glass. The winery has crafted rosé since the 1960s, drawing on young vineyards to create a style that emphasizes bright fruit, freshness and a smooth texture.

Made from Tempranillo and Viura using the pressing method, this pale-pink rosé offers fragrant red-berry aromas accented by white blossoms. Its soft, rounded palate balances natural fruitiness with a refreshing character, leading to a clean, lingering finish.

A versatile choice for relaxed entertaining, seafood dinners or an aperitif, this is a rosé to enjoy for its youthful charm and lively fruit.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast — 89 Points
An appealing, harmonious rosé with melon and red-apple aromas, delicate floral notes and a stony undertone. Citrus freshness brings definition and lift, making it particularly enjoyable while young.
Review summary — John Sumners, September 2026.

Food Pairing: Grilled fish, shrimp, shellfish, light pasta and rice dishes.

Region: Rioja DOCa, Spain
Grapes: Tempranillo and Viura
Style: Fresh, fruit-forward rosé
Bottle Size: 750ml
Serving Temperature: 46–50°F (8–10°C)

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

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

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

Professional Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

A fresh, inviting expression of Rioja, Arienzo de Marqués de Riscal Crianza 2022 showcases Tempranillo’s vibrant fruit and approachable character. Sourced from vineyards in Rioja Alavesa, this versatile red combines youthful energy with the mellow complexity of 17 months of aging in American oak.

Bright red-fruit aromas mingle with subtle notes of vanilla, coconut and oak spice. The palate is generous and supple, offering juicy cherry and raspberry flavors, a creamy texture and gentle, well-integrated tannins. A persistent, lightly spiced finish makes this an appealing choice for everyday enjoyment and relaxed meals with friends.

Professional Reviews

90 Jeb Dunnuck: A Tempranillo from younger vines, the 2022 Arienzo Crianza spent 17 months in American oak and is made in an approachable, fruity style. Offering great value, it’s a showcase of red cherry and raspberry dipped in vanilla, with a creamy texture and delicate, well-integrated tannins.

90 Wine Enthusiast: Enticing and approachable with great versatility, this Tempranillo Crianza leads with red fruits sweetened by vanilla bean and integrated spice. Melting tannins provide succulent texture carrying in to a juicy long finish. Best Buy.

Food Pairing: Grilled chicken, grilled red meats, swordfish and aged cheeses such as Manchego.

Region: Rioja Alavesa, Rioja DOCa, Spain
Grape: Tempranillo
Aging: 17 months in American oak
Bottle Size: 750ml
Serving Temperature: 61–64°F (16–18°C)

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

Expert Reviews

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

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

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

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

VINEYARD

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

WINEMAKING

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

VINTAGE

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

TASTING NOTE

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

FOOD PAIRING

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

A polished and expressive Brunello offering ripe Tuscan fruit, savory woodland character, refreshing acidity and a firm, age-worthy finish.

Wine Description

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is an elegant and layered expression of Sangiovese Grosso from one of Montalcino’s most historic estates. Situated southwest of Montalcino, the CastelGiocondo vineyards rise approximately 300 to 400 meters above sea level, with favorable southwest-facing exposures and a diverse combination of clay, sand and schist soils.

This varied landscape brings complexity and definition to the wine. The 2020 vintage opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, raspberry and pomegranate, followed by violet, rose and subtle woodland notes. With time in the glass, savory layers of licorice, white pepper, star anise, toasted spice and earth begin to emerge.

Medium to full-bodied, the palate begins soft and velvety, with generous ripe fruit balanced by refreshing acidity and dense, finely structured tannins. The finish is long, savory and mineral-driven, showing the depth and restraint expected from classic Brunello di Montalcino.

Winemaking

The Sangiovese Grosso grapes are carefully selected in the vineyard and again at the winery. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with frequent pump-overs during the early stages to encourage color, aroma and gentle extraction. The wine is subsequently matured in wood and refined in bottle until it reaches its characteristic balance and harmony.

About CastelGiocondo

CastelGiocondo is a remarkable historic estate dominated by an ancient castle and medieval village. Its vineyards benefit from elevation, well-drained soils, warm Tuscan sunshine and cooling Mediterranean influences—all ideal conditions for producing structured, aromatic and long-lived Sangiovese.

The diversity of the estate’s soils and exposures allows Frescobaldi to create a Brunello with remarkable depth and evolving complexity. Each glass reveals something new, from vibrant red and dark fruit to floral, earthy and spice-driven nuances.

Food Pairing

An excellent companion to braised beef, osso buco, roasted lamb, wild mushrooms, truffle dishes, aged Pecorino Toscano and Parmigiano-Reggiano. It is also a natural match for traditional Tuscan preparations, including pappardelle with wild-boar ragù and bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Serving Suggestions

Serve at approximately 60–65°F in a large red-wine glass. When enjoyed young, decanting for one to two hours will help reveal the wine’s aromatic detail and soften its youthful structure. Delicious beginning in 2026, it also has the balance and tannic foundation for further development in the cellar.

Expert Ratings

94  James Suckling: Pretty Brunello with licorice, smoky woodland and ripe black cherries. Medium-bodied, soft and velvety at the start, then thick with an austere finish. Refreshing acidity. Good definition and savoriness here, yet it’s mostly fruity. Needs time to develop greater complexity. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.

93 Decanter: Davide Bozzon has been the resident winemaker at Castelgiocondo since this 2020 vintage. Given the hot conditions, he kept macerations to under 28 days to rein in the power and keep the wine from becoming too heavy. After one year in neutral barriques, it refines for a further two in large Slavonian oak casks. Grenadine and macerated red plum are topped with chocolate, rosemary and oregano. Smooth and polished on entry, luxurious fruit is laced with espresso and leather. Despite its girth, a concentration of frisky acidity persists through the core. That charming touch of Tuscan rusticity is felt in its dry, dusty tannins on the back end.

93 Wine Spectator: Fresh and expressive, this red displays cherry, raspberry, earth, leather and menthol flavors. There are gripping tannins, yet it's the vivid acidity that makes a stronger impact as it propels the long finish. Best from 2028 through 2045. 25,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.

92 Jeb Dunnuck: Pouring a saturated magenta/ruby hue, the 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino is warming with ripe fruit on the nose, including tarry notes of baked black cherries, pine sap, polished leather, and toasted oak spice. While it's full-bodied, it keeps a snappy lift of crunchy acidity, with a rich coating texture and notes of dark chocolate-covered orange on the finish.

Wine Details

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2020

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy | 750ml

Floral · Chalky · Saline · Pure · Elegant

A beautifully refined Premier Cru Chablis with vibrant citrus, crushed-shell minerality and a long, cool saline finish.

Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys 2023 is a graceful and highly distinctive expression of the left bank of the Serein. Les Lys is a historic climat within the celebrated Vaillons Premier Cru, situated toward the upper portion of the hillside and known for producing Chablis of exceptional elegance, freshness and finesse.

William Fèvre owns approximately 0.99 hectare in Les Lys, an east-facing parcel planted on clay soils over Chablis’ famous Kimmeridgian limestone. Historically associated with French royalty, the vineyard combines a privileged location with a cooler personality that allows the fruit to ripen slowly while preserving beautiful acidity and mineral definition.

The 2023 vintage opens with bright aromas of green apple, lemon oil and fresh stone fruit, joined by white flowers, subtle herbs and delicate marine notes. With air, layers of oyster shell, chalk and crushed stone become increasingly pronounced.

On the palate, the wine is precise, fresh and beautifully balanced. Orchard fruit and citrus are carried by lively acidity, while a finely textured chalkiness gives the wine shape and definition. There is an appealing suppleness through the mid-palate, but the overall impression remains cool, mineral and distinctly Chablisien.

The finish is long and refreshing, marked by crushed shell, citrus zest and a lingering saline quality. Les Lys is less about sheer power than purity, elegance and mineral tension, making it a particularly refined expression of William Fèvre’s Premier Cru holdings.

Winemaking is deliberately gentle to preserve the character of the vineyard. The fruit is handled largely by gravity, followed by delicate pressing and natural alcoholic and malolactic fermentations. The wine is matured with a restrained use of older French oak before completing its élevage in stainless steel, maintaining freshness and allowing the terroir to remain at the forefront.

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for oysters, clams, scallops, shrimp and grilled seafood, as well as delicate white fish such as sole, halibut and sea bass.

Its combination of freshness and texture also pairs beautifully with roast chicken, poultry in a light cream sauce, goat cheese and gently seasoned vegetable dishes.

Serve lightly chilled to allow the wine’s floral character, subtle fruit and mineral complexity to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

94 James Suckling: More green stone fruit and chopped herbs on the nose, with crushed shells and mineral. Bright, dry and medium-weighted, with a nicely chalky mouthfeel despite the vertical, zestier acidity. Stony, cool and pure on the finish.

93 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: Sourced from a north-facing site beneath forest cover with clay-rich soils, a parcel selection in Vaillons, the 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys is among the most quintessentially Chablisien wines in the portfolio and is harvested around a week later than the fruit that enters the Vaillons bottling. It offers aromas of oyster juice, white flowers, lemon oil and Granny Smith apple, followed by a medium- to full-bodied, incisive and pure palate that is elegant yet racy and fresh, concluding with a long, saline finish.

93 Vinous: The 2023 Chablis Les Lys 1er Cru comes from a single hectare of vines. Lime, red apple and touches of orange pith and peach skin develop in the glass. The palate is well balanced with a taut line of acidity, silky smooth, very composed with a lot of finesse on the finish. This is one of the domaine's hidden gems and should not be under-estimated.

92 Jasper Morris: Clear pale lemon yellow. The nose is taking coaxing but has the precision. Very good tension, still with delicacy despite the concentration, nothing dilute here, good tension with a little bitterness at the back. Barrel sample: 90-92

92 Wine Enthusiast: This is a particularly well-balanced Cha- blis. Aromas of green apple, lightly browned toast, and lilac open on the nose accented by dried white blos- som. The saline-dusted palate washes across crushed shells and rides a wave of chalky acidity that becomes more emergent on the finish.

The Style

Elegant, cool and mineral-driven — a beautifully precise Premier Cru Chablis combining floral finesse, chalky freshness and a lingering saline finish.

William Fèvre Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys 2023

Mineral · Flinty · Saline · Elegant · Powerful

A thrilling Premier Cru Chablis with ripe orchard fruit, smoky minerality and a long, saline finish.

Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre 2023 is a beautifully composed expression of one of Chablis’ most highly regarded Premier Cru vineyards. Known for combining impressive depth with exceptional mineral tension, Montée de Tonnerre consistently produces wines of remarkable refinement, structure and longevity.

The 2023 vintage is both generous and energetic. Aromas of ripe Mirabelle plum, nectarine and green apple are layered with flinty minerality and subtle smoky reduction, creating a complex and expressive bouquet. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

On the palate, the wine is richly textured yet beautifully precise. Golden apple and orchard fruit are joined by notes of pear, orange peel, fennel and beeswax, while a chalky mineral backbone and vibrant acidity keep the wine fresh and focused.

There is excellent depth through the mid-palate, but the wine never feels heavy. Instead, the concentration is balanced by freshness and energy, leading to a long, mouthwatering finish marked by stone, citrus and a distinctive saline character.

Montée de Tonnerre is one of those Premier Crus that can offer nearly Grand Cru-like depth while retaining the finesse and purity that make great Chablis so compelling. The 2023 is already impressive, yet its structure and acidity should allow it to develop beautifully with additional bottle age.

Food Pairing

Pair with oysters, lobster, scallops, langoustines and grilled or roasted fish. Its richness also makes it an excellent match for turbot, Dover sole, roast chicken, veal and refined seafood dishes finished with butter or light cream sauces.

Serve lightly chilled to allow the wine’s fruit, smoky mineral character and layered complexity to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

94 Decanter Magazine writes: "a powerful, thrilling wine shows pronounced, ripe aromas of mirabelle plum, nectarine and green apple, with a strong underpinning of flinty minerality and smoky reduction. "

95 Wine Enthusiast - June 1, 2026 "This wine is elegance in a glass. Layered aromas of golden apple, toasted brioche, dried hay, field herbs, and forest floor charm the nose dusted with lemon zest. The palate is luxurious and richly textured with just-ripened orchard fruit riding a layer of stony acidity to the long finish. Editor’s Choice."

94 James Suckling - May 31, 2026 "Excellent depth of minerality and chalkiness, with smoky, flinty green apples. Chalky on the palate, with medium- to full-bodied character and a zesty, lightly saline finish. Energetic, with purity and inconspicuous depth and concentration."

93 Wine Advocate - January 29, 2026 "The 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre unites a solar personality of the year with tension, delivering aromas of beeswax, pear, orange peel and fennel, mingling with oyster liquor. Medium- to full-bodied, the palate is tangy and textural, with considerable depth and a long, saline finish."

92 Wine Spectator - December 31, 2025 "A rich version, laced with honeysuckle, peach, yellow plum and August meadow, plus a flash of cinnamon. This is balanced and charming, with a mineral undercurrent on the mouthwatering aftertaste. Drink now through 2032."

The Style

Powerful yet refined — a deeply mineral Premier Cru Chablis with impressive texture, vibrant acidity and a long, saline finish.

An elegant single-harvest White Port from Portugal’s Douro Valley, Maynard’s White Colheita Port 2009 combines vibrant citrus and floral character with the complexity gained through more than a decade of maturation in wood. Beautifully balanced between sweetness and refreshing acidity, this distinctive Colheita demonstrates the remarkable character and longevity of traditional Douro white grape varieties.

Produced entirely from the 2009 harvest, the wine was matured in wooden casks for over 10 years, allowing its youthful fruit to develop greater depth, smoothness and complexity while retaining impressive freshness.

Region & Style

Country: Portugal
Region: Douro Valley
Appellation: Porto / Port
Wine Type: Fortified White Wine
Style: White Colheita Port / Single Harvest Port
Vintage: 2009
Bottle Size: 750ml
Alcohol: 20% ABV
Winemaker: Álvaro van Zeller

Grape Varieties

A traditional Douro white blend composed of:

• Códega do Larinho
• Rabigato
• Malvasia Fina
• Arinto

Winemaking & Aging

Maynard’s White Colheita 2009 is produced exclusively from grapes harvested in a single vintage. Following vinification, the Port matured in wooden casks for more than 10 years.

Colheita Ports differ from Vintage Ports in that their character develops primarily through extended aging in wood rather than prolonged maturation in bottle. This slow oxidative evolution brings additional complexity and softness while preserving the acidity that gives fine White Colheita Port its characteristic freshness and balance.

Tasting Notes

The Maynard’s 2009 White Colheita offers an elegant and smooth aromatic profile, led by youthful citrus fruit and delicate floral fragrances.

On the palate, the wine is subtly complex, combining lively fruit and floral character with the rounded texture developed through extended wood aging. Sweetness is balanced by refreshing acidity, giving the wine finesse, freshness and an elegant, harmonious finish.

18 Points — Revista de Vinhos

Revista de Vinhos awarded Maynard’s White Colheita Port 2009 an impressive 18 Points.

The wine was particularly noted for its smooth and elegant aromatic character, with citrus-driven fruit and floral notes creating a subtly complex and refined expression.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly chilled at approximately 12–14°C / 54–57°F. Its combination of sweetness, freshness and aromatic complexity makes it an excellent after-dinner wine, although it is equally enjoyable served on its own.

Store the bottle upright in a cool, dry and dark location with a consistent temperature.

Food Pairing

This White Colheita is particularly versatile with desserts. Pair it with caramel-based desserts, baked apples, dried fruits and warm spices, as well as tarte Tatin, crème brûlée and delicately flavored cheeses.

Its fresh citrus character also makes it an excellent partner for fruit-based desserts such as tangerine or citrus parfait.

About Maynard’s

Maynard’s is the flagship Port brand associated with Fernando and Álvaro van Zeller, continuing a centuries-old family connection to the Port wine trade. The brand takes its name from Walter Maynard, born in 1652, an early English merchant associated with the export of Port wine from Portugal to England.

Today, Maynard’s produces a collection of traditional Ports ranging from Vintage and aged Tawny Ports to distinctive single-harvest Colheitas, preserving the history and traditions of one of Portugal’s most celebrated wine regions.

Fresh, floral and beautifully balanced, the 2009 White Colheita combines the vibrancy of Douro white grapes with the complexity and elegance of extended wood aging.

Maynard’s White Colheita Port 2009 750ml

Geoffroy “Expression” Premier Cru Brut is the signature non-vintage Champagne of this historic grower-producer. Built around the 2021 harvest and enriched with an equal proportion of reserve wines from a perpetual blend begun in 1970, Expression brings together ripe orchard fruit, red-fruit nuance, chalky minerality and a finely detailed mousse.

The blend is sourced from Premier Cru vineyards in Cumières and Hautvillers in the Vallée de la Marne. Pinot Noir and Meunier provide body, fruit and vinous depth, while Chardonnay contributes citrus freshness, precision and lift. A very low dosage of 3 grams per liter gives the wine a dry, focused profile while preserving the generosity and expressive fruit that define the Geoffroy style.

The Place

Expression reflects vineyards planted on the right bank of the Grande Vallée de la Marne, primarily around the Premier Cru village of Cumières, with additional fruit from Hautvillers Premier Cru.

Cumières lies between the Marne River and the forested slopes northwest of Épernay. Its favorably exposed hillside vineyards are particularly well suited to Pinot Noir and Meunier, producing wines with ripeness, generous fruit and notable vinosity. Chardonnay brings additional freshness and finesse to the final blend.

The soils vary across the source parcels and include clay-limestone, marl and sand. Clay contributes breadth and fruit concentration, while limestone and chalk provide freshness, structure and a persistent mineral character. The varied soils and exposures allow Geoffroy to create a layered Champagne that expresses the broader personality of the Vallée de la Marne rather than a single vineyard.

The Expression Cuvée

Expression is considered the introductory or foundational cuvée of Champagne Geoffroy, but its production is far from simple. The wine is assembled from several vineyard parcels, three grape varieties and an extensive collection of reserve wines.

The Geoffroy family describes Expression as its “memory wine,” connecting the character of the current harvest with previous generations. Each release combines a substantial proportion of the base vintage with wine drawn from the estate’s perpetual reserve, which was established by René Geoffroy in 1970.

This reserve system gives the Champagne consistency and complexity while allowing each new base vintage to remain visible. The youthful energy of 2021 is balanced by the depth, texture and maturity contributed by reserve wines spanning many previous harvests.

The Base-2021 Blend

The base-2021 release is composed of:

35% Meunier
35% Pinot Noir
30% Chardonnay

Approximately 50% of the blend comes from the 2021 harvest. The remaining 50% comes from Geoffroy’s perpetual reserve, which contains wines dating from its establishment in 1970 through the years preceding the 2021 harvest.

Meunier contributes aromatic fruit, suppleness and immediate charm. Pinot Noir gives the wine structure, depth and subtle red-fruit character. Chardonnay adds citrus freshness, floral lift and mineral precision.

Together, the three varieties produce a Champagne that is ripe and generous without becoming heavy, with firm acidity and chalky minerality preserving energy throughout the finish.

The 2021 Base Vintage

The 2021 growing season in Champagne was cooler and more difficult than several of the warm, dry vintages that preceded it. Careful vineyard selection was essential, but successful growers produced wines with bright acidity, aromatic freshness and a distinctly classical Champagne profile.

In Expression, the lively character of the 2021 base wine is complemented by the broader texture and maturity of the perpetual reserve. The result combines the freshness and tension of the vintage with the depth and continuity of a multi-vintage blend.

Viticulture

Champagne Geoffroy follows a practicing-organic and sustainability-focused approach in the vineyard. The estate avoids chemical weedkillers, encourages biodiversity, cultivates cover crops and works the soil to maintain healthy microbial activity and deeper root systems.

The grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness and carefully sorted before pressing. Geoffroy’s emphasis on ripe, healthy fruit is especially important because Expression is intended to display both freshness and a distinctive vinous richness.

The source vines are generally more than 30 years old and are distributed among multiple Premier Cru parcels in Cumières and Hautvillers.

Winemaking

The grapes are pressed in a traditional Coquard press. Vinification is conducted parcel by parcel, allowing the character of each vineyard, grape variety and soil type to be assessed before the final blend is assembled.

The base wines are fermented and matured in a combination of temperature-controlled enameled tanks and neutral oak barrels. The perpetual reserve is maintained in concrete tanks, which allow the reserve wine to develop texture and complexity without contributing overt oak flavor.

Malolactic fermentation is only partially completed for this release. Retaining a portion of the wine’s natural malic acidity helps preserve freshness and tension, while partial malolactic fermentation softens the texture and adds balance.

The assembled Champagne underwent secondary fermentation in bottle and matured for approximately 30 months on its lees. Extended lees contact contributes the creamy mousse and subtle notes of brioche, bread dough and pastry found in the finished wine.

The dosage is only 3 grams per liter, giving Expression a notably dry profile. This restrained dosage highlights the wine’s acidity, chalky mineral character and savory complexity while allowing its ripe fruit to remain expressive.

Tasting Notes

The base-2021 Expression pours a bright straw-yellow color with a persistent stream of fine bubbles. The bouquet opens with fresh apple, pear, quince and preserved lemon, accompanied by red currant, ripe black cherry and orange peel.

As the wine opens, additional notes of white flowers, crushed chalk, toasted brioche, pastry cream, smoke and subtle nuttiness emerge. The reserve-wine component contributes depth and maturity, while the 2021 base preserves aromatic freshness and energy.

The palate is medium-bodied, focused and beautifully balanced. Firm acidity is wrapped in a creamy, finely detailed mousse, producing a Champagne that feels both energetic and polished. Orchard fruit and citrus are joined by subtle red-fruit flavors, toasted bread and a lightly pithy texture.

A distinct mineral foundation runs through the wine, bringing notes of crushed stone and chalk to the foreground. The finish is crisp, savory and persistent, with preserved lemon, brioche and mineral flavors lingering after each sip.

Expression is approachable upon release, but its combination of reserve-wine complexity, vibrant acidity and extended lees aging allows it to develop additional richness and harmony with short-term cellaring.

Professional Ratings

93 Points — James Suckling: "Dry with delicious sliced-apple and chalk aromas and flavors with crushed-stone undertones. It™s medium-bodied with a focused palate and a crisp, delicious finish. Nicely done. Drink now." 2025-08-05

92 Points — Wine Spectator: "A mouthwatering version, with firm acidity swathed in the creamy, finely detailed mousse, this offers a rich, tightly meshed range of ripe black cherry, preserved lemon, toasted brioche, smoke and pastry cream flavors. A minerally underpinning drives the finish. Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Disgorged September 2024. 750 cases imported. - AN"

91 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "A bright yellow hue, the NV Champagne 1er Cru Expression Brut is from the 2020 vintage but includes perpetual reserve wines going back to 1970. The nose displays notes of nectarine, golden apples, hay, and a hint of nuttiness or bread. Medium-bodied, with good balance on the palate, it™s quite harmonious and very tasty all around, with a fluffy mousse, notes of orange citrus, and a clean, savory finish. It™s quite approachable and will drink well now or over the coming 5-7 years. 5 grams per liter dosage."

The Producer

The Geoffroy family has cultivated vines in Cumières since the 17th century. Jean-Baptiste Geoffroy represents the fifth generation of his family to grow grapes and produce wine in the Vallée de la Marne.

The family began placing greater emphasis on estate-bottled Champagne after the Second World War. In the 1970s, René Geoffroy decided to retain the family’s entire crop for Champagne production rather than selling grapes to larger houses. He also established the perpetual reserve that remains central to Expression today.

The estate now farms approximately 14 hectares, with most of its vineyards located in Cumières and additional parcels in Hautvillers, Damery and Fleury-la-Rivière. Although the winery and cellars are now located in Aÿ, the identity of Champagne Geoffroy remains deeply connected to the slopes of Cumières.

Jean-Baptiste Geoffroy’s approach combines careful vineyard work, ripe fruit, parcel-by-parcel vinification and restrained dosage. The wines are known for their balance of vinous depth, energetic acidity and precise expression of the Vallée de la Marne.

Food Pairing

Expression is an excellent aperitif, but its texture, low dosage and substantial reserve-wine component also make it a versatile food Champagne.

Serve with oysters, shrimp, crab cakes, smoked salmon, seafood pastries, scallops, sushi or tempura. It also pairs beautifully with roast chicken, veal sweetbreads, pork tenderloin, mushroom tart, aged Comté and other firm, savory cheeses.

The wine’s acidity and chalky finish cut through butter and cream, while its orchard-fruit, brioche and subtle red-fruit flavors complement roasted poultry, pastry-based appetizers and richer seafood dishes.

Serving and Cellaring

Serve at approximately 46–50°F. A white-wine glass rather than a narrow flute will allow the wine’s orchard fruit, brioche, mineral and reserve-wine aromas to develop more fully.

Expression is ready to drink upon release and may be enjoyed over the next five to seven years. Additional bottle age will soften the mousse and encourage more developed notes of toasted nuts, honey, pastry and dried orchard fruit.

Producer: Champagne Geoffroy
Cuvée: Expression
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Subregion: Vallée de la Marne
Villages: Cumières Premier Cru and Hautvillers Premier Cru
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Non-Vintage Brut Champagne
Base Vintage: 2021
Blend: 35% Meunier, 35% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay
Vintage Composition: 50% 2021 and 50% perpetual reserve
Perpetual Reserve: Established in 1970
Soils: Clay-limestone, marl and sand
Vine Age: Generally more than 30 years
Farming: Practicing organic and sustainability-focused
Harvest: Hand harvested and sorted
Press: Traditional Coquard press
Fermentation: Enameled tanks and neutral oak barrels
Reserve-Wine Aging: Concrete tanks
Malolactic Fermentation: Partial
Lees Aging: Approximately 30 months
Dosage: 3 grams per liter
Disgorgement: September 2024
Alcohol: Approximately 12.5%
Bottle Size: 750ml

Geoffroy “Expression” Premier Cru Brut Champagne — Base 2021

Yellow Tail is produced by Casella Family Brands, headquartered in Yenda, New South Wales — one of Australia's most recognized wine producers and a benchmark for consistent, fruit-driven value wines.

Nearly a third of the grapes used for Yellow Tail are estate-grown across approximately 540 acres of Casella family vineyards in the Riverina region, with additional fruit sourced from carefully selected parcels across the broader South Eastern Australia appellation. The result is a wine of reliable character and freshness, vintage after vintage.

The Sauvignon Blanc is produced using modern viticultural techniques combined with traditional winemaking principles, prioritizing bright acidity and clean varietal expression. No oak influence — just pure, fruit-forward Sauvignon Blanc crafted for immediate enjoyment. This 1.5-liter magnum format is equivalent to two standard bottles, making it an ideal choice for entertaining, gatherings, or simply having more of a good thing on hand.

The wine is vinified to preserve the natural freshness and aromatic vibrancy of the Sauvignon Blanc grape, with careful temperature-controlled fermentation ensuring the tropical and citrus character remains vivid and expressive through to the glass.

The Sauvignon Blanc opens with an inviting nose of ripe passionfruit, grapefruit, and gooseberry, with lighter notes of lemongrass and fresh citrus. On the palate, the wine is crisp and vibrant, with zingy tropical fruit, fresh apple and pear, and a subtle herbal hint of bell pepper adding complexity. Bright acidity runs through to a clean, refreshing finish with lingering citrus and tropical fruit. Serve well chilled at 45–50°F.

Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: South Eastern Australia
Producer: Casella Family Brands, Riverina, NSW
ABV: 12%
Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)

Pairing: Grilled shrimp, fresh goat cheese salads, light fish tacos, Thai green papaya salad, and seared scallops with citrus beurre blanc.

Château Simard | Saint-Émilion AOC | Bordeaux, France | 2015

Château Simard has a history rooted in the very foundations of Saint-Émilion. The estate takes its name from Johan de Las Symas, a Jurat of Saint-Émilion in the 15th century who founded the village of Simard — where the Vauthier family's two estates are currently located. The vineyard was purchased in 1954 by Claude Mazière, and in 2008 his nephew Alain Vauthier — the celebrated proprietor of Château Ausone, one of Bordeaux's most iconic estates — took the reins. The estate has thus remained in the same family for seven decades, and the Vauthier connection to Ausone brings world-class winemaking expertise to every vintage.

Located in the southern valley of Saint-Émilion running down to the plain, the 40-hectare estate is planted on a patchwork of clay-limestone, sand, and gravel soils. The blend is 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon — though the 2015 is composed of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. After manual harvesting and meticulous berry sorting, the wine is fermented and aged primarily in concrete and stainless-steel tanks to preserve freshness and roundness, with approximately 30% oak. The result is a wine of pure fruit, concentration, and generosity — the very definition of Saint-Émilion's accessible, pleasure-driven style.

The 2015 is a superb vintage for Saint-Émilion. Medium to deep garnet-purple in the glass. The nose is vibrantly scented with red currants, black cherries, warm plums, violets, oranges, lemons, and fragrant earth. On the palate, medium-bodied, very fine, fruity, and elegant — ripe, fine-grained tannins, wonderful freshness, and a red cherry lift on the finish. Silky, juicy, and delicious. Ready to drink now or hold.

Pair with roast lamb, duck confit, beef bourguignon, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

• Producer: Château Simard (Vauthier Family / Château Ausone)
• Appellation: Saint-Émilion AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
• Vintage: 2015
• Vinification: Concrete & stainless-steel tanks; ~30% oak aging
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2015

• Wine Advocate — 91 pts: Vibrantly scented of red currants, black cherries and warm plums with hints of violets and fragrant earth. Medium-bodied, very fine, fruity and elegant with ripe, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness. Finishes with a red cherry lift.
• James Suckling — 91 pts: Oranges and lemons with blackberry and dark-earth character. Full-bodied, round, juicy and silky. Delicious and soft. A gorgeous wine. Drink now or hold.
• Vinous Media — 90 pts: Intense and dark — succulent jammy fruit with exotic spice, leather and rose petal overtones wrapping around the juicy finish. An attractive, early-drinking Simard.

R. Pouillon & Fils | Les Châtaigniers | Extra-Brut | Festigny, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne | 2019 | Organic

R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards with rigorous organic principles and a deep commitment to expressing the individual character of each parcel — producing wines of exceptional purity, vitality, and terroir transparency.

Les Châtaigniers is a distinctive single-vineyard Champagne from the village of Festigny, situated on the left bank of the Marne Valley in the Vallée du Flagot. The parcel's calcareous clay soils create an especially expressive terroir for Pinot Meunier — a grape that is often underestimated in Champagne but capable of extraordinary depth, structure, and refinement in the right hands and the right site. The clay-rich soils encourage generosity and texture, while the calcareous component contributes freshness, precision, and a firm mineral backbone.

The fruit is harvested by hand and vinified in oak casks ranging from new barrels to vessels up to ten years old, then rested for approximately 18 months in neutral barriques before bottling. Full malolactic fermentation adds roundness and creaminess. Beginning with the 2019 vintage, Pouillon extended his innovative Méthode Fabrice Pouillon to all estate Champagnes — using naturally sweet grape juice from the domaine for the secondary fermentation and dosage rather than externally sourced sugar, preserving a more direct connection between the finished Champagne, its fruit, and its vineyard of origin.

Broad, vinous, and deeply expressive. Aromas of golden apple, quince, ripe pear, and subtle red fruit joined by floral, herbal, and gently savory notes, with hints of flint, warm spice, toasted grain, and earthy minerality. On the palate, the natural roundness of Pinot Meunier is balanced by vibrant acidity and a fine, persistent mousse. Generous fruit and supple texture are anchored by mineral tension, giving the wine both richness and energy. The finish is long, dry, and layered — lingering orchard fruit, chalk, spice, and a delicate reductive character. A gastronomic Champagne with the depth and structure to accompany an entire meal.

Pair with roasted poultry, pork, veal, creamy mushroom dishes, fried seafood, richer fish preparations, washed-rind cheeses, and aged Comté.

• Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
• Cuvée: Les Châtaigniers
• Style: Extra-Brut
• Appellation: Festigny, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France
• Grape: Pinot Meunier (100%)
• Vintage: 2019
• Farming: Organic
• Soils: Calcareous clay (Vallée du Flagot)
• Vinification: Oak casks (new to 10 years old); Méthode Fabrice Pouillon
• Élevage: ~18 months in neutral barriques; full malolactic fermentation
• Dosage: Extra-Brut (estate grape juice)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2019

• WineLens — 95 pts: Complex and distinctive — apple, quince, herbal and floral notes with touches of flint and gentle reduction. Medium to full-bodied with excellent freshness and acidity, beautiful roundness, impressive dimension, and a long finish.

Yann Alexandre Brut Noir — Champagne 2020 Base

Yann and Séverine Alexandre farm their vineyards in the Petite Montagne de Reims with a single goal: to produce Champagne as naturally as possible from healthy, fully mature grapes. Certified sustainable by OCACIA, their parcels grow on calcareous-clay soils with stones, flint, and sand — a varied geology that contributes freshness, mineral tension, and complexity. The Brut Noir is the estate's signature cuvée: a blend of Pinot Meunier for generous fruit and suppleness, Pinot Noir for structure and depth, and Chardonnay for brightness and energy. Each variety is vinified separately in temperature-controlled stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation, then assembled and aged approximately five years on the lees in the Alexandre family's cool cellar before hand riddling and disgorgement. Awarded 92 Points by Decanter and a Silver Award in 2025.

The nose is inviting and layered: subtle brioche and toast, fresh citrus, white peach, and a delicate chalky undercurrent. On the palate, the wine is rich yet precise — generous fruit and creamy texture from the Meunier, lifted by Chardonnay's brightness and framed by Pinot Noir's quiet structure. The mousse is fine and persistent, and the finish is long, chalky, and satisfying. An excellent aperitif and a natural companion at the table.

Decanter 92 • Silver Award 2025 — "Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, curries, egg dishes, mushroom preparations, charcuterie, and creamy cheeses."

• Producer: Yann & Séverine Alexandre, Petite Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2020 (with reserve wines)
• Appellation: Champagne
• Blend: Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
• Soil: Calcareous-clay with stones, flint, and sand
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by OCACIA
• Vinification: Temperature-controlled stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation
• Lees Aging: ~5 years; hand riddled & disgorged
• Alcohol: 12%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Brioche, toast, citrus, white peach, chalky minerality, creamy texture, long finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled chicken, curries, egg dishes, mushroom preparations, charcuterie, creamy cheeses

92 points from Decanter. Five years on the lees. Hand riddled and disgorged. Yann Alexandre's Brut Noir is grower Champagne from the Petite Montagne de Reims at its most honest and expressive.

J. Vignier’s Pur Cramant is a rare, single-vineyard Grand Cru Champagne created to capture the character of one exceptional parcel in Cramant. For this cuvée, Nathalie Vignier selects a different lieu-dit from her family’s Cramant holdings according to which site she believes most clearly expresses the personality of the vintage. For the 2016 release, that vineyard was Les Fourches.

Located in the southern part of Cramant, close to the renowned Bateau vineyard, Les Fourches is planted with Chardonnay vines more than 55 years old. The parcel’s northeast-facing slopes and distinctive combination of clay-rich marl over pure Cretaceous chalk create a Champagne with both depth and precision. The marl contributes texture and power, while the deep chalk subsoil provides freshness, tension and the refined mineral character associated with the finest wines of the Côte des Blancs.

Produced entirely from Grand Cru Chardonnay, the wine was fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve the purity of the fruit and the clarity of the vineyard expression. It underwent full malolactic fermentation and remained on its lees until bottling in April following the harvest. The Champagne then spent approximately 64 months aging en tirage before disgorgement, developing a fine mousse, greater complexity and a beautifully integrated texture.

Pur Cramant Les Fourches is precise, concentrated and elegantly structured. Aromas of lemon zest, white peach, green apple and white flowers are complemented by subtle notes of brioche, almond and chalk. The palate is energetic and finely textured, with bright citrus, ripe orchard fruit and a pronounced mineral core. Its Extra-Brut dosage keeps the finish dry, focused and persistent while allowing the character of the old vines and chalk-rich terroir to remain at the forefront.

This is a sophisticated, terroir-driven Champagne that is equally compelling as an aperitif or served with food. Pair it with oysters, caviar, scallops, lobster, sushi, roasted white fish, creamy poultry dishes, mushroom risotto or aged cheeses.

Wine Details

• Producer: J. Vignier
• Cuvée: Pur Cramant
• Lieu-Dit: Les Fourches
• Vintage: 2016
• Region: Champagne, France
• Appellation: Côte des Blancs
• Village: Cramant
• Classification: Grand Cru
• Wine Style: Blanc de Blancs Extra-Brut
• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay
• Vine Age: More than 55 years
• Orientation: Northeast
• Soil: Cretaceous chalk, marl and clay
• Farming: Certified sustainable by Socofret
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Élevage: Stainless steel
• Malolactic Fermentation: Yes
• Lees Aging: Approximately 64 months en tirage before disgorgement
• Residual Sugar: 4.3 g/L
• Acidity: 4.4 g/L
• pH: 3.07
• Alcohol: 12.25%
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Château Pipeau is a fourth-generation estate founded in 1929 in Saint-Émilion, on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, where many of the world’s greatest Merlot-based wines are produced.

Winemaker Jean Mestreguilhem, son of the current owners, worked at Château de Fieuzal in Pessac-Léognan and Screaming Eagle in Napa Valley before returning to his family estate.

The property includes 25 hectares of clay-limestone and deep sandy soils planted to 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc, with an average vine age of 40 years.

Grass grows naturally between the vine rows, while careful debudding and green harvesting limit yields and maximize quality. Canopy management and early harvesting help preserve freshness. The grapes are sorted first on the vine and then again on a sorting table.

“This is an intriguingly delicious wine, starting off with a waft of warm nutmeg and cinnamon. The palate is balanced but assertive, with ripe black plum and bramble fruit.”

—Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer

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This expressive Saint-Émilion Grand Cru comes from a historic, family-owned estate situated at the foot of the Saint-Émilion hillside on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Founded by Georges Mestreguilhem in 1929, Château Pipeau has remained in the same family for four generations and is now directed by Jean Mestreguilhem with the support of his father, Richard. The estate has grown from its original seven hectares to approximately 25 hectares of vines located just three kilometers from the village of Saint-Émilion.

The vineyard is planted predominantly to Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines average approximately 40 years of age and are rooted in a combination of clay-limestone soils and deep sands. These contrasting soils help produce a wine that combines the generosity and plush fruit of Merlot with freshness, structure, and aromatic complexity.

Château Pipeau follows environmentally conscious vineyard practices and holds Haute Valeur Environnementale certification. Grass is maintained between the vineyard rows to encourage healthy soils and biodiversity, while careful debudding, green harvesting, and leaf removal are used to control yields and promote even ripening. The grapes are harvested both manually and mechanically before undergoing precise optical sorting at the winery.

Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with gentle macerations lasting approximately three to four weeks and daily pump-overs to extract color, flavor, and tannin without sacrificing finesse. A traditional vertical press is used to preserve the integrity of the fruit. Most of the wine is then matured for 12 to 14 months in new French oak barrels, while a smaller portion remains in stainless steel to retain freshness and vibrant fruit character.

The 2022 vintage opens with generous aromas of ripe black plum, crushed blackcurrant, raspberry, and wild strawberry. Layers of nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, tobacco, and subtle toasted oak add depth and complexity. The palate is rich and assertive, yet balanced by freshness, with ripe dark fruit, bramble, warm spice, and polished tannins carrying through the finish. A professional tasting of the vintage also noted its deep, fresh aromatic profile and awarded it 90 points.

Approachable in its youth with decanting, this wine also has the concentration and structure to develop further in the cellar. It is an excellent match for roast lamb, grilled steak, beef tenderloin, duck, braised short ribs, mushroom dishes, and firm aged cheeses.

Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
Region: Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2022
Grape Varieties: 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Soils: Clay-limestone and deep sand
Average Vine Age: Approximately 40 years
Farming: Environmentally responsible; HVE certified
Vinification: Temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks with gentle maceration
Aging: Approximately 12–14 months, primarily in new French oak
Bottle Size: 750ml

Serving Recommendation: Serve at approximately 60–65°F. Decant for one to two hours when drinking young to allow the fruit, spice, and tannins to fully open.

Château Mondot Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2021

Perched atop a singular hill overlooking the ancient village of Saint-Émilion, Château Mondot has stood as an understated beacon of exceptional terroir since its creation in 1700. The estate — the second wine of the legendary Château Troplong Mondot — occupies a position like no other in the appellation, its lofty elevation and unique soil profile setting it apart from its neighbors on the limestone plateau.

The secret lies beneath the surface: Mondot's hill is one of the only places in Saint-Émilion where ancient Agenais Molasse clays, formed during the region's geological creation, have survived erosion to great depths, overlying the astéries limestone so characteristic of the appellation. This rare clay-over-limestone profile is the defining signature of Mondot's wines — lending them structure, freshness, and a distinctive mineral tension that sets them apart.

The 2021 Mondot holds a special place in the estate's history: it is the last vintage produced exclusively from Merlot grown on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau — a milestone worth cellaring. Bright and vibrant in character, the wine reflects the cool, precise nature of the 2021 vintage with crystalline energy and elegant restraint.

Deep ruby in the glass, the wine opens with floral wildflower and crushed flower aromas, followed by red cherry, blackberry, currant, orange peel, cola, mint, and white pepper, with a touch of toasted oak and blue fruit. The palate is refined and focused — not plush or heavy — with pure acidity, a gorgeous tannic structure, and a mouthwatering, saline finish with notes of liquorice and wet stone. Drink from 2027.

Wine Enthusiast — 93 pts
"Floral wildflower aromas. Partial wood aging has produced a wine with light toast and pure acidity. Black-currant flavors are dominant with bright acidity as well as structure. Drink from 2027." (Vintage 2021). 

Decanter — 93 pts
"Beautifully delicate and fragrant — a touch of cola, blue fruits and salt with green pepper and toasted oak. Refined and focussed, crisp and mouthwatering, excellent energy and sense of life with a delicious moreish liquorice, wet stone finish. A serious, well-constructed wine with depth but no heaviness." (Vintage 2021). 

James Suckling — 92 pts
"A vivid and bright red with currant, orange peel and some light spices. Medium body and fine tannins that turn dusty in the finish." (Vintage 2021).

Vinous — 91 pts
"A bright, vibrant wine. Crushed flowers, red cherry fruit, orange peel, mint and white pepper abound. A wine of crystalline energy and tension — super-impressive." (Vintage 2021).

Wine Advocate — 90 pts
"Charming and expressive, bursting with aromas of blackberries, plums, orange zest and spices. Medium to full-bodied, ample and velvety, seamless and suave, with succulent acids and a mouthwateringly saline finish. The last rendition of Mondot produced exclusively from Merlot growing on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau." (Vintage 2021).

Varietal: 100% Merlot (final vintage)
Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC, Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2021
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 WE | 93 Decanter | 92 JS | 91 Vinous | 90 WA

CHÂTEAU FAGE GRAVES DE VAYRES WHITE 2023 | 750ML

🇫🇷 France — Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc | Graves de Vayres, Bordeaux

A beautiful bouquet nuanced between the citrus freshness of Sauvignon Blanc and the expressive richness of Sémillon. Bright aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and fresh herbs lead to a crisp, well-balanced palate with tropical fruit, smooth texture, and a subtle mineral undertone. The finish is clean, refreshing, and inviting — a wine built for the table and ready to drink now.

Crafted from 60% Sémillon and 40% Sauvignon Blanc, Château Fage captures the charm of Bordeaux’s Graves de Vayres appellation with genuine food-friendly finesse.

88 Points — Wine Enthusiast
“This is a creamy style of wine. Its tropical aromas and smooth fruit are lifted by a crisper, youthful acidity. It is likely to be ready from later this year.” — Roger Voss, (Vintage 2023). 

88 Points — James Suckling
“A simple wine with aromas of lemon zest, stones and apple peel. Light and fresh, with crisp fruit and an easy finish. Drink now.” (Vintage 2023). 

Pairs well with: Seafood, light salads, goat cheese, and aperitif.

Grapes: 60% Sémillon, 40% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Graves de Vayres, Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2023
Format: 750ml
Scores: 88 pts Wine Enthusiast | 88 pts James Suckling

Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon — Sonoma County 2022

Ferrari-Carano is one of Sonoma County’s most celebrated family-owned wineries, founded in 1981 by Don and Rhonda Carano on the benchlands of Dry Creek Valley. Over four decades, they have built a reputation for estate-driven wines of exceptional quality and consistency — wines that express the warmth, generosity, and complexity of Sonoma County at its best. The Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is their benchmark red: a bold, structured wine sourced from select Sonoma County vineyards and crafted by Senior Red Winemaker Rebecka Deike. The 2022 is a distinctive blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Syrah — an unconventional but inspired combination that adds plush texture and savory depth to the classic Cabernet framework. James Suckling awarded it 92 points; Wine Enthusiast 91 points.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is rich and layered: damson plums, tobacco leaves, cedar, and licorice, with concentrated aromas of roasted cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper adding complexity and intrigue. On the palate, it is full-bodied and generous — firmly framed tannins, a plush mouthfeel, and flavors of blackberry, licorice, and toasty barrel spices that linger along a neatly balanced finish. Fruity yet savory, structured yet approachable — very generous and giving for the price.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Aromas of damson plums, tobacco leaves, cedar and licorice. The full-bodied palate has firmly framed tannins and a plush mouthfeel. This is a fruity yet savory blend of 78% cabernet sauvignon and 22% syrah. Very generous and giving for the price. Drink or hold.”

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
“Concentrated aromas of roasted cherry, cocoa powder and black pepper dominate the nose of this Cab. The palate is rich and broad, with flavors of blackberry, licorice and toasty barrel spices that linger along the neatly balanced finish.”

• Producer: Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Sonoma County
• Blend: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Syrah
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bold, plush, fruit-forward Sonoma County Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Damson plum, roasted cherry, tobacco, cedar, licorice, cocoa, blackberry, toasty spice
• Drink Window: Now–2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, BBQ, aged cheddar, dark chocolate

Two critics, two 90+ scores — Ferrari-Carano 2022 is Sonoma County Cabernet at its most generous.