Half Bottles

Louis Latour | Mâcon-Lugny Les Genièvres | Mâconnais, Burgundy, France | 2024 | 375ml Half Bottle

Maison Louis Latour is one of Burgundy's most storied and respected negociants, family-owned and independent since 1797. With the largest holding of Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte d'Or and a winemaking heritage stretching back to the 17th century, Louis Latour has built a global reputation for producing wines that faithfully express the character of Burgundy's diverse terroir — from the grandest Grands Crus to the most approachable village wines.

Mâcon-Lugny is one of the Mâconnais's most reliable appellations, situated in southern Burgundy where the climate is warmer and sunnier than the Côte d'Or. Les Genièvres is Louis Latour's benchmark Mâcon-Lugny — a consistently excellent, food-friendly Chardonnay that delivers genuine Burgundian character at an accessible price point.

The 2024 is clean and lively with a flowery bouquet. The nose offers white flowers, honey, ripe apple, and a hint of hazelnut. On the palate, fresh and well-balanced with bright acidity, gentle fruit, and a clean, nutty finish. An effortlessly enjoyable white Burgundy — now in a convenient 375ml half bottle, perfect for solo enjoyment or as a pairing for a single course.

Pair with grilled fish, seafood, scallops, light pasta, and Comté cheese.

• Producer: Maison Louis Latour
• Appellation: Mâcon-Lugny AOC, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
• Cuvée: Les Genièvres
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle

Critical Acclaim - Prior Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 90 pts: Clean and lively with a flowery bouquet and lovely honey, apple, and nutty flavors on the palate.

The sweet vermouth that built the Negroni and the Manhattan — Martini & Rossi Rosso has been the world’s benchmark sweet vermouth since its creation in Turin in 1863. This convenient 375ml half bottle is perfect for home bartenders who want freshness in every pour, gifting, or keeping a perfectly sized bottle on hand for spontaneous cocktail moments.

Deep cola in color, the nose is sensuous and layered — ginger, prunes, sap, and bark. On the palate it’s supple and sweet with an almost Sherry-like richness at entry, giving way to citrus and grape at midpalate. The finish is luscious and semisweet, with a lingering herbal complexity from its core botanicals: Artemisia, Summer Savory, and Dittany, balanced with exotic bitter-sweet woods.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast — 95 Points | Cola hue. Sensuous nose features ginger, prunes, sap and bark aromas. In the mouth, its supple, sweet, winey and almost Sherry-like at entry, then at midpalate citrus and grape flavors appear. Finishes luscious and semisweet.

• Producer: Martini & Rossi, Pessione, Turin, Italy (est. 1863)
• Style: Sweet Red Vermouth (Rosso)
• Botanicals: Artemisia, Summer Savory, Dittany, bitter-sweet woods
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Serve: Negroni, Manhattan, Americano, or on the rocks with orange peel
• Tip: Refrigerate after opening and consume within 4–6 weeks — the half bottle format ensures maximum freshness

E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rouge — Southern Rhône, France 2022

No name in the Rhône Valley commands more respect than Guigal. From their legendary single-vineyard La Las to this benchmark Côtes du Rhône, Marcel Guigal and his family have spent decades proving that the Southern Rhône can deliver both grandeur and extraordinary value in the same bottle. The 2022 Rouge is a textbook expression of the appellation: a Syrah-led blend with Grenache and Mourvèdre, it is deep, dark, and generously fruited — full-bodied yet polished, with smooth tannins and a long, elegant finish. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 92 points and called it "exceptional value." 

The nose is intensely aromatic: black cherry, dark plum, rose petal, and warm spice. On the palate, the fruit is bright and concentrated, with earthy depth, fine-grained tannins, and a playful, spice-laced finish that lingers well beyond its price point. A touch of aeration opens it up beautifully — decant briefly or simply let it breathe in the glass.

Wine Enthusiast 92 • James Suckling 90 — "Exceptional value. Bright and concentrated black cherries, rose petal and fresh aromatics."

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
Bright and concentrated black cherries, rose petal and fresh aromatics create a lively nose. On the palate, fruit and earthy notes come into perfect balance with a bit of aeration. A great pairing for meaty dishes, offering exceptional value.

James Suckling — 90 Points
A juicy, fruity red with aromas of dark cherries, red berries and mild spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Bright fruit character on the palate with a playful finish and a touch of spices. Drink now.

• Producer: E. Guigal, Ampuis, Rhône Valley, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône
• Blend: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, dark plum, rose petal, warm spice, earthy depth, smooth tannins
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb, roast chicken, charcuterie, beef stew, hard cheeses

The world's most trusted Rhône producer at its most approachable — Guigal's Côtes du Rhône is the benchmark for what Southern France can deliver at any price.

Louis Latour | Bourgogne Pinot Noir AOC | Burgundy, France | 2023 | 375ml Half Bottle

Maison Louis Latour is one of Burgundy's most storied and respected négociants, family-owned and independent since 1797. With the largest holding of Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte d'Or and a winemaking heritage stretching back to the 17th century, Louis Latour has built a global reputation for producing wines that faithfully express the character of Burgundy's diverse terroir — from the grandest Grands Crus to the most approachable regional appellations.

Bourgogne Pinot Noir is Burgundy's regional appellation, drawing fruit from vineyards across the entire region. Pinot Noir is the native red grape of Burgundy — one of the world's most celebrated and terroir-sensitive varieties — and Louis Latour's Bourgogne expression offers a genuine introduction to the elegance and finesse that defines great red Burgundy.

Vinified traditionally in open vats and aged 10 to 12 months in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit purity. The 2023 shows a deep, bright ruby hue. The nose is elegant — red fruits, blackcurrant bud, and licorice, lifted by a hint of spice. On the palate, round and well-balanced with freshness and a supple texture, expressing notes of cherry, blackcurrant, and licorice that linger through a harmonious finish. A classic, food-friendly Burgundy red in a convenient 375ml half bottle.

Pair with grilled meats, roast duck, charcuterie, mushroom dishes, and mature cheeses.

• Producer: Maison Louis Latour
• Appellation: Bourgogne Pinot Noir AOC, Burgundy, France
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023
• Vinification: Traditional open vat fermentation; 10–12 months in stainless steel
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle

In 1968, Miljenko “Mike” Grgich went to work for Robert Mondavi as chief enologist, crafting the inaugural release of “Fumé Blanc” — an elegant, dry, oak-aged style of Sauvignon Blanc that Mondavi named after the French word for smoke. A decade later, Mike's 1973 Chardonnay famously won the Judgment of Paris, putting California wine on the world map. He went on to found Grgich Hills Estate in 1977, where he continued to champion the Fumé Blanc style as a tribute to his mentor and friend. Today, the estate farms all five of its Napa Valley vineyards organically and biodynamically.

The Grgich Hills Fumé Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2023 375ml Half Bottle opens with striking aromas of fresh lime, lemon verbena, gooseberry, and honeysuckle. On the palate, bright citrus, tangy star fruit, and a hint of green mango are framed by deft oak and a chiseled, linear acidity that carries through to a long, mineral finish of lasting slate. Certified organic and biodynamic — a wine of precision, integrity, and genuine pleasure in a perfect half-bottle format.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fresh lime, lemon verbena, gooseberry, and honeysuckle
• Palate: Bright citrus, star fruit, green mango, and lemongrass with deft oak
• Finish: Long, chiseled, and mineral with lasting slate and juicy citrus

Wine Details

• 100% Sauvignon Blanc — Fumé Blanc style
• Certified Organic & Biodynamic — five estate vineyards
• Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023 | 375ml Half Bottle
• Pairs with: filet of sole, pork loin, seafood, light pasta

Chateau Mont Redon Chateauneuf-Du-Pape Rouge 2023 375ml HALF BOTTLE

Producer Description

Enchanting and complex on the nose with red fruit, tobacco leaf, licorice, and delicate spices. Super-sensual on the palate — rich and refined, with stunning interplay of ripe fruit, raw-meat, and smoked-bacon character. Very long, silky finish. Sustainable. Drink or hold.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

James Suckling 97 Points — Brimming with youthful Amarena cherry fruit, this has excellent concentration but also a compact tannic core. Really needs some time to open up. Very long and intense finish with stacks of licorice.

Vinous 92 Points — Vinified from fully destemmed grapes, the deep ruby-colored 2023 develops with red and black plum, licorice, fresh violets, and leafy elements. Full-bodied and polished, with a juicy core of fruit and good freshness on the bright resolution.

Wine Advocate 91 Points — A blend of 60% Grenache Noir, 31% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre, and other permitted varieties. Somewhat introverted and oak-driven, opening with aromas of toast, spices, and licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, enveloping and creamy, with a fleshy core of fruit framed by assertive oak tannins. Well-balanced and competently executed.

Wine Details

Producer: Château Mont-Redon
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France
Blend: 60% Grenache Noir, 31% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre
Vintage: 2023
Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
Farming: Sustainable

Hailing from Germany's legendary Black Forest (Schwarzwald), Monkey 47 is a truly exceptional batch-distilled, handcrafted gin made with 47 hand-selected botanicals prepared in ultra-soft Black Forest water. At 94 proof, it delivers bold, aromatic complexity — layers of juniper, citrus, floral notes, and subtle spice, perfectly balanced into a rich and sophisticated spirit.

Since its launch in 2010, Monkey 47 has earned a devoted following among aficionados, bartenders, and connoisseurs worldwide. Ideal in a classic Martini or Gin & Tonic, or savored neat to explore its intricate botanical depth.

• Distillery: Black Forest Distillers, Loßburg, Germany
• Style: Schwarzwald Dry Gin
• Botanicals: 47 hand-selected
• Proof: 94 (47% ABV)
• Format: 375ml

Rombauer Chardonnay Carneros Napa Valley 2024 375ml Half Bottle

Rombauer Vineyards is the definitive name in California Chardonnay — the wine that set the standard for the rich, lush, butter-and-vanilla California style that the world has been chasing ever since. Founded by Koerner Rombauer in 1980 in the Napa Valley, Rombauer draws fruit for their flagship Chardonnay from Carneros — the cool, fog-influenced appellation at the southern end of Napa and Sonoma where cold San Pablo Bay air tempers the afternoon heat and allows Chardonnay to ripen slowly and beautifully, developing extraordinary fruit complexity while retaining the bright acidity that holds everything together.

The 2024 Carneros Chardonnay is quintessential Rombauer — ripe peach, melon, and citrus on the nose, a creamy vanilla midpalate, and a signature buttery finish underpinned by bright, refreshing acidity. This 375ml half bottle delivers the full Rombauer experience in a perfectly sized format for two generous pours or a solo indulgence.

"Lush, ripe, and relaxed — a classic with generous poached pear and peach pie flavors, creamy vanilla, and bright acidity tying it all together."

• Producer: Rombauer Vineyards, St. Helena, Napa Valley, California
• Appellation: Carneros AVA, Napa Valley
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Style: Rich, full-bodied, buttery California Chardonnay — barrel fermented and aged on lees
• Tasting Notes: Ripe peach, melon, citrus, creamy vanilla, butter, poached pear, peach pie, bright acidity, long finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster, crab, roast chicken, creamy pasta, brie, or enjoyed on its own.

California’s most iconic Chardonnay in a perfect half bottle — Rombauer Carneros 2024 is the wine that defines a style and never fails to delight.

Expert Review — Vintage 2022

Jeb Dunnuck — 90 Points | Mostly Viognier (55%) but with other permitted white varieties, the 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Blanc has a medium-bodied, vibrant, pure style to go with lovely peach and tangerine-like aromas and flavors. Drink this outstanding, classy white over the coming 2-3 years. I never cease to be amazed at the quality of the Côtes du Rhône white from this team, especially given the quantities produced.

Winemaker Description

Yellow gold, clear and brilliant. Freshness on the nose marked by the distinctive aromas of Viognier — white flowers, apricot, acacia and white peach. On the palate it is fruity with plenty of richness and body. A well-rounded wine with elegance, strength and balance.

• Producer: E. Guigal
• Appellation: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Blend: 55% Viognier + other permitted white varieties
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle

Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages Chardonnay 2023 — Half Bottle (375ml)

Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy’s most respected and enduring négociants, with a history stretching back to 1859. From their base in Beaune, Jadot has long been a benchmark producer across the entire Côte d’Or and beyond — including the Mâconnais, where they craft some of the most reliable and expressive village-level Chardonnays in the region. The Mâcon-Villages is a perennial favorite: a classic, food-friendly white Burgundy that delivers genuine character at an accessible price point, now available in a convenient half-bottle format.

The 2023 opens with floral, apple, and citrus aromas with mineral notes — a classic expression of Chardonnay from this appellation. Fresh citrus leads the way on the palate, with a round texture, bright acidity, and a delicate lemongrass note on the finish. Bright, juicy, and charming, with a crunchy fruit expression that makes it endlessly appealing.

Rated Best Buy by Wine Spectator.

Wine Spectator — 88 pts / Best Buy

“Fresh citrus aromas lead the way, offering an elegant and light profile. The palate is straightforward yet refined, with a round texture and bright acidity. A subtle note of lemongrass emerges on the finish.” — Anna-Christina Cabrales. (Vintage 2023). 

Food Pairings

Oysters, grilled fish, roast chicken, goat cheese, light pasta dishes, and summer salads. A perfect half-bottle for a solo dinner or a shared starter.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Mâcon-Villages AOC, Burgundy, France
Vintage: 2023
Format: 375ml (Half Bottle)
Score: 88 pts Wine Spectator — Best Buy

Val di Suga · Brunello di Montalcino DOCG · 2020

Val di Suga’s 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is a Sangiovese red from Tuscany, Italy, offered here in a 375ml half bottle. The smaller format makes it a practical choice when you want to open Brunello without committing to a full-size bottle.

For a food-pairing suggestion, bring it to the table with roast beef, lamb, mushroom pasta or aged cheese. These are general Brunello pairing ideas, rather than tasting notes for this particular vintage.

At a glance

• Producer: Val di Suga
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Sangiovese
• Style: Red wine
• Size: 375ml half bottle
• General pairing suggestions: Roast beef, lamb, mushroom pasta or aged cheese

Val di Suga Brunello in a convenient half-bottle format.

The vermouth that defined the dry martini — Martini & Rossi Extra Dry was launched on New Year’s Day 1900, born from a decade of experimentation to rival the French “sec” style. This convenient 375ml half bottle is ideal for home bartenders who want freshness in every pour, gifting, or keeping a perfectly sized bottle on hand for spontaneous martini moments.

Straw-colored and bright, the nose offers raspberry, lemon zest, and the subtle elegance of iris. On the palate it’s dry without being bitter — the white wine base allows the botanicals to shine with clarity and lift. Clean, refreshing, and endlessly versatile, from a classic dry martini to a simple pour over ice with a twist.

Producer Description

MARTINI Extra Dry vermouth was launched with great international success on New Year’s Day in 1900. A straw-colored vermouth with a sharper perfume, it reveals raspberry, lemon, and the subtler hints of iris. Dry without being bitter, with a white wine base that allows the aromas to come alive in the glass.

• Producer: Martini & Rossi, Pessione, Turin, Italy (est. 1863)
• Style: Extra Dry Vermouth
• Character: Crisp, dry, raspberry, lemon & iris
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Serve: Classic Dry Martini, on the rocks with lemon twist, or with soda water
• Tip: Refrigerate after opening and consume within 4–6 weeks — the half bottle format ensures maximum freshness

Domaine Laroche · Chablis St Martin · 2025 · 375ml Half Bottle

Domaine Laroche Chablis St Martin 2025 brings Chardonnay from Chablis, Burgundy, to a convenient 375ml half bottle. It is a smaller-format choice for opening a meal or enjoying with a seafood supper.

Producer & Terroir

Domaine Laroche is one of Chablis’ celebrated estates, with a heritage connected to the 10th-century Obédiencerie de Chablis and vineyards that include original monastery sites. Named for the abbey’s patron saint, the St Martin cuvée is an introduction to the house and its focus on the pure, stony character of Chablis.

Style

The house style described for St Martin centers on lemon zest, green apple and oyster-shell notes, with refreshing acidity, flinty minerality and a crisp, harmonious finish. These describe the cuvée’s general profile rather than a tasting assessment of the 2025 vintage.

Pairing Suggestions

Try with oysters, seafood risotto, grilled sole, goat cheese or a plateau de fruits de mer. The half-bottle format makes it an easy choice for a smaller meal.

Details

• Producer: Domaine Laroche
• Cuvée: St Martin
• Vintage: 2025
• Bottle size: 375ml, half bottle
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Chablis
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Type: White wine

Elk Cove Vineyards · Willamette Valley · Pinot Noir · 2024 · 375ml Half Bottle

Elk Cove Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2024 brings fresh cherry, delicate toast and refined spice together in a balanced, medium-bodied Oregon red. Ripe tannins and good length frame the estate-grown fruit, presented here in a convenient 375ml half bottle for occasions when a full bottle is more than you need.

The Estate & Vineyards

Founded in 1974, Elk Cove Vineyards is one of Oregon's pioneering estates, with a commitment to site expression and sustainable viticulture. Its benchmark Willamette Valley Pinot Noir draws fruit from across the estate vineyards, bringing together red-fruit clarity, earthy complexity and silky structure.

Winemaker's Notes · Vintage Not Specified

Bright cherry and raspberry aromas complement notes of cinnamon and delicate violet. The palate strikes a balance between juicy plum and boysenberry and complex, earthy cola and leather, finishing with chalky tannins and hints of crème brûlée.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

Tasting Panel, 93 Points · 2024: This is a Pinot that deftly walks the line between subtlety and sweet fruitiness. Red berry and cherry flavors stand at center stage, with a faint whiff of oak spice lending complexity along with a tender tug of tannin that frames the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck, 92 Points · 2024: The 2024 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley is a jeweled ruby color and leaps from the glass with delicate toast, fresh cherries, and refined spice. Medium-bodied, it has ripe tannins, lovely balance, and good length, with fruit drawn from all of the estate vineyards.

James Suckling, 91 Points · Vintage Not Specified: A fresh, juicy, light- to medium-bodied wine with loads of red-cherry, spice and rose-petal aromas. Fine, gentle tannins and a silky texture.

Pairing & Serving

Try with roast chicken, salmon or mushroom dishes. Serve slightly below room temperature to highlight the fruit and spice.

Details

• Producer: Elk Cove Vineyards
• Vintage: 2024
• Bottle size: 375ml Half Bottle
• Country: United States
• Region: Oregon
• Appellation: Willamette Valley
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Type: Red wine
• Viticulture: Sustainable vineyard practices
• Fruit source: Estate vineyards

Simonnet-Febvre · Chablis · 2022 Half Bottle

A 375ml half bottle of Chablis from Maison Simonnet-Febvre, a Burgundy house founded in 1840. This smaller format suits a seafood dinner or an aperitif for two. The producer’s description emphasizes citrus, freshness and the mineral character associated with its Chablis.

Winemaker Description

This pretty Chablis is a balanced wine that reveals a fine, fruity nose that is oriented towards citrus fruit. On the palate, the freshness and minerality of the appellation are found, as well as a hint of minerality supported by a white-flesh fruit side. This vintage has a beautiful concentration as well as a nice balance. Produced from vines with and average age of 35 years old and aged in stainless steel tanks for 6-10 months on the lees.

Simonnet-Febvre · Winemaker Description; vintage not identified in supplied note

Expert Review · Vintage 2022

This has excellent freshness with notes of sea shells, sliced apples, wet stones and a touch of jasmine. Crisp and brisk, medium-bodied, with a subtle peppery spritz at the end.

James Suckling · 91 points 2022 bottle

About Simonnet-Febvre

Based in Chablis, the house produces wines across Chablis and the Grand Auxerrois. Maison Louis Latour acquired it in 2003; Simonnet-Febvre continues to operate with its own house style.

At a Glance

• Producer: Maison Simonnet-Febvre
• Vintage listed for sale: 2022
• Appellation: Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Size: 375ml half bottle

Dolin Vermouth de Chambery Rouge — Savoie, France 375ml

Dolin has been crafting vermouth in Chambéry — the only French appellation with a protected designation for vermouth — since 1821. Dolin Rouge is the house’s celebrated sweet red expression, built from a neutral white wine base macerated with up to 54 carefully selected botanicals over several months. Its distinctive coppery color comes not from red wine, but from the particular plants used and the addition of dark, caramelized sugar — a hallmark of the traditional Chambéry style. This 375ml half bottle is the perfect way to explore one of France’s most complex and storied vermouths.

Lustrous copper in color, Dolin Rouge opens with a rich bouquet of fruit compote, prunes, and walnuts, layered with grassy notes and spicy aromas of Szechuan pepper. On the palate, almond, citrus, pear, and cinnamon mingle with gingerbread, tobacco, oregano, and hyssop. Balanced sweetness and 16% ABV create a harmonious, sophisticated finish that rewards both sipping and cocktail use.

“Up to 54 botanicals, a coppery hue from caramelized sugar, and centuries of Alpine tradition — Dolin Rouge is French sweet vermouth at its most complex.”

• Producer: Dolin, Chambéry, Savoie, France
• Style: Rouge (Sweet Red) Vermouth
• Appellation: Vermouth de Chambéry — protected French designation since 1932
• Botanicals: Up to 54, including wormwood, hyssop, chamomile, genépi, cinchona bark, rose petals
• ABV: 16%
• Size: 375ml Half Bottle
• Tasting Notes: Fruit compote, prunes, walnuts, Szechuan pepper, almond, citrus, cinnamon, gingerbread, tobacco
• How to Enjoy: Negroni, Manhattan, Boulevardier; chilled on the rocks with an orange twist; neat as an aperitif
• Best Paired With: Charcuterie, aged cheeses, dark chocolate, roasted nuts

A vermouth of extraordinary botanical complexity and Alpine heritage — Dolin Rouge is the French answer to the world’s finest sweet vermouths.

La Marca Prosecco — Prosecco DOC NV — 375ml Half Bottle

La Marca is one of Italy's most beloved Prosecco houses, crafting Glera from the rolling hills of the Veneto with a focus on freshness, elegance, and effortless drinkability. This 375ml half bottle is the perfect format — enough for two generous pours, ideal for a solo celebration, a quiet aperitivo, or whenever a full bottle feels like too much of a commitment. Light, lively, and endlessly charming, it is Prosecco as it was meant to be enjoyed.

Pale golden straw in color with lively, persistent effervescence. The nose opens with fresh citrus, honeysuckle blossoms, green apple, and ripe peach. On the palate, the wine is crisp and clean with bright fruit flavors — green apple, juicy peach, and lemon — framed by a hint of minerality. The finish is light and refreshing with a tantalizing touch of sweetness that keeps it approachable and crowd-pleasing.

One of Italy's most recognized Prosecco DOC labels — fresh, floral, and endlessly food-friendly from the heart of the Veneto.

• Producer: La Marca, Veneto, Italy
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Prosecco DOC
• Varietal: 100% Glera
• Style: Extra Dry Sparkling
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Tasting Notes: Fresh citrus, honeysuckle, green apple, peach, lemon, hint of minerality, touch of sweetness
• Serve: 46–50°F in a flute or white wine glass
• Best Paired With: Oysters, light seafood, mild cheeses, prosciutto, fresh fruit, aperitivo, or on its own

The perfect half bottle — La Marca Prosecco is the benchmark for fresh, elegant Italian sparkling wine at a price that makes every moment feel like a celebration.

Bergström Wines | Cumberland Reserve Pinot Noir | Willamette Valley, Oregon | 2023 | 375ml Half Bottle

Bergström Wines is one of Oregon's most celebrated Pinot Noir producers, founded by John Bergström — a Swedish-born surgeon who pursued the American dream to Portland, Oregon — and now led by his son Josh and daughter-in-law Caroline. From their estate in the Chehalem Mountains, Bergström farms multiple vineyards across the Willamette Valley with a commitment to biodynamic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking, producing wines of extraordinary purity, complexity, and terroir expression.

The Cumberland Reserve is Bergström's benchmark appellation-level Pinot Noir — a blend from their five estate vineyards plus select purchased fruit, matured for 10 months. It represents the house style at its most accessible and consistently delivers remarkable value for the quality. The 2023 vintage in the Willamette Valley produced wines of exceptional freshness, balance, and aromatic complexity.

The 2023 Cumberland Reserve is bright and seductive. The nose is expressive and multilayered — raspberry liqüeur, fresh cherry, crushed wild berries, violets, lavender, mocha, fresh sage, and a hint of cedary spice. On the palate, medium-bodied and mouthwatering with ripe, detailed tannins, bright acidity, and a long, tense, refreshing finish. A stunning introduction to the vintage and a benchmark for the region. Now available in a convenient 375ml half bottle.

Pair with roast duck, salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb, charcuterie, and Pinot-friendly aged cheeses.

• Producer: Bergström Wines
• Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA, Oregon, USA
• Sub-zone: Yamhill-Carlton
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023
• Vinification: Blend of 5 estate vineyards + select purchased fruit; 10 months maturation
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

• Jeb Dunnuck — 94 pts: Raspberry liqüeur, mocha, floral perfume, and fresh sage. Medium-bodied with ripe, detailed tannins and a long finish. A stunning introduction to the vintage and a benchmark for the region.
• James Suckling — 94 pts: Bright and seductive — fresh cherries, crushed wild berries, violets, wet rocks and subtle spices. Racy and mouthwatering with spicy and minerally tension and a lingering finish.
• Wine Advocate — 93 pts: Strawberry, raspberry, forest floor and earthy undertones. Bright, spicy fruit framed by soft, chalky tannins and mouthwatering acidity. Long, bright finish.
• Vinous — 93 pts: Incredibly fresh — dusty dried flowers, lavender, cedary spice and wild blueberries. Ripe wild berry fruits and crisp mineral tones over pure silk. Long, tense, remarkably fresh finish. Amazing value.
• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: Generous yet silky — raspberry and guava accented by fresh violet, orange peel and dusky spice. Gathers richness on the lively finish.

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.

Olivier Leflaive · Bourgogne Blanc Les Sétilles · 2022

Chardonnay | Burgundy, France | 375ml Half Bottle

Producer & Terroir

Les Sétilles draws on vineyards within the communes of Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault, each contributing roughly half of the final blend. Multiple plots bring complexity to this Bourgogne Blanc, presented here in a convenient 375ml half bottle.

Tasting Profile

James Suckling’s 2022 review describes a crisp, lively Chardonnay with apple, lemon zest and mineral tang, gaining toasted almond and butter notes as it opens. Medium-bodied and balanced, it offers a detailed white Burgundy experience in a smaller format.

Expert Review · Vintage 2022

James Suckling, 92 Points: Very snappy and crisp on first sip, this gains depth and complexity in toasted almonds and butter as it opens. Alive with crisp apples, lemon zest and a mineral tang that gives a very lively texture and great balance. Medium-bodied. Blended from 60 sites in the region, it was partially barrel fermented.

Winemaker Description

Winemaker Description: Olivier Leflaive Bourgogne Blanc Les Sétilles (family garden) has become one of the most popular items in the entire Frederick Wildman portfolio. Year in/ year out this wine represents impeccable quality and unsurpassed value in the French wine category. This wine exceeds expectations of even the most discriminating of palates.

Les Sétilles is sourced from vineyards within the communes of Puligny Montrachet and Meursault, with each village representing roughly half of the final blend. Grapes are sourced from multiple plots within each village in an effort to maximize complexity of the final wine.

Vintage consistency is the goal with this wine so the blending of lots and aging technique will vary according. Roughly 60% of the wine is aged in Allier oak, only 10% of which is new. The remaining 40% of the wine is aged in stainless steel to preserve clean varietal character.

Food Pairings & Serving

Our suggestions: roast chicken, pan-seared fish or mushroom dishes. Serve chilled, allowing a little time in the glass to explore the developing almond and butter notes described in the review.

Wine Details

• Producer: Olivier Leflaive
• Cuvée: Les Sétilles
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Bourgogne Blanc
• Region: Burgundy, France
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vineyard sources: Communes of Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault
• Style: White wine
• Size: 375ml Half Bottle
• Rating: James Suckling, 92 Points (2022)

González Byass Noé Pedro Ximénez VORS — 30 Years, Jerez

Noé is one of the rarest and most extraordinary sherries in existence. Produced by González Byass — the historic house behind Tio Pepe — from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes with a final average age of over 30 years, this VORS (“Very Old Rare Sherry”) is a wine of almost incomprehensible concentration and complexity.

With a sugar level of 400 grams per liter, Noé pours like liquid velvet: deep mahogany, viscous, and intensely aromatic. The nose layers buckwheat honey, Black Forest cake, dried fig, raisin, chocolate, cinnamon, and a haunting balsamic depth. On the palate, the sweetness is perfectly balanced by a bright, racy acidity that is utterly uncommon for wines of this richness — finishing long, fiery, and unforgettable.

James Suckling 95 • Wine Spectator 94 • Wine Enthusiast 94 • Wine Advocate 91

• Producer: González Byass, Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
• Style: Pedro Ximénez VORS Sherry
• Average Age: 30+ Years
• Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
• ABV: 15.5%
• Residual Sugar: 400 g/L
• Tasting Notes: Buckwheat honey, Black Forest cake, dried fig, raisin, dark chocolate, cinnamon, balsamic
• Best Served: Slightly chilled over vanilla ice cream, with aged cheeses, or as a contemplative digestif

A once-in-a-lifetime sherry experience in a half bottle — perfect for gifting or savoring over an evening. One of the greatest sweet wines in the world.

The iconic Italian aperitif in a convenient 375ml half bottle — perfect for gifting, travel, or a spontaneous Aperol Spritz for two. Aperol’s unmistakable bright orange color and unique taste come from a secret recipe unchanged since 1919 — a precise infusion of bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, gentian, and a blend of herbs and roots in perfect proportion. Light in alcohol and irresistibly refreshing.

The aperitif ritual born in Veneto pairs Aperol Spritz with traditional cicchetti — small bites like tiny sandwiches, olives, and local dishes. Versatile enough for quick toasts after a long day or relaxed Sunday brunches.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points | Among the canon of Italian spirits, Aperol and the Aperol Spritz cocktail are classics. Light on every count — alcohol content, sweetness, and texture. The gentle sweet-bitter profile goes down easy, especially when lightened with bubbles.

• Producer: Campari Group, Italy
• Style: Aperitivo Liqueur
• ABV: 11%
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Serve: Aperol Spritz — 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 splash soda

Zenato · Amarone della Valpolicella · 2020

Veneto, Italy | Red wine | 375ml half bottle

From the Zenato family, this Amarone della Valpolicella brings the depth and generous texture of the estate's red-wine style to a convenient half-bottle format. The 375ml size is a welcome choice for a dinner for two or an evening when a full bottle is more than you need.

Dark fruit, layered aromas, and voluminous elegance define the wine's character. Dense fruit and tannin find balance across the palate, leading to a long finish.

Expert Reviews · Vintages Not Specified

James Suckling, 96 Points | Restrained fruitiness with aromas of raspberries and earth, alongside a complex spicy blend of freshly ground black pepper, milk, mint, bay leaf and cocoa powder. Very youthful. Full-bodied, dense and balanced, with savory flavors of chocolate and cherries, super-tasty style, tight, chalky yet ripe tannins and a fresh, cleansing acidity. Toasty finish.

Wine Enthusiast, 95 Points | Some wines don't need an invitation. Dark and dense, this brings candied violets and warm plum jam while black cherry cola adds its deep swagger. The palate stays bold and serious, letting all that juicy

Review text incomplete.

Winemaker Description

The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico from Zenato is made from grapes from the classical Valpolicella region and is the jewel in the wine production of the Zenato family.

This Italian red wine presents itself dark red, almost black in the glass. It overwhelms in the best way with voluminous elegance, dense, multi-layered aromas and a beautiful balance of fruit and tannin. A phenomenal length makes this Amarone irresistible. An exceptional red wine at an amazingly low price.

Pairing & Serving

Suggested pairings include braised beef, roast lamb, mushroom dishes, or aged hard cheeses. Allow time in the glass to explore its layered aromas.

Wine Details

• Producer: Zenato
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Amarone della Valpolicella
• Region: Veneto
• Country: Italy
• Type: Red wine
• Size: 375ml half bottle

Catena Malbec · Mendoza · 2024 · 375ml half bottle

Catena builds its wines by blending separately harvested lots from family vineyards across different terroirs and elevations. This 2024 Malbec draws on holdings in Lunlunta, El Cepillo and Gualtallary, bringing several sides of Mendoza together in one compact half bottle.

The Wine Advocate's note points to roasted herbs, graphite and subtle florals, with a soft feel, savory finish and mineral thread. The 375ml format is a smart choice when you want a glass or two with dinner without opening a full bottle.

Expert review

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 90 Points — 2024 vintage — Produced from Catena's holdings in Lunlunta, El Cepillo and Gualtallary, the 2024 Malbec is a classic expression of the variety that matured for 12 months in second- and third-use barrels. Roasted herbs, graphite and subtle floral notes mark the nose, followed by a soft, seductive mouthfeel and an even-keeled finish that lingers with savory flavors and a discreet mineral core.

At a glance

• Producer: Catena
• Vintage: 2024
• Grape: Malbec
• Region: Mendoza, Argentina
• Vineyard sources named in the review: Lunlunta, El Cepillo and Gualtallary
• Size: 375ml half bottle

A small-format Mendoza Malbec for a dinner for two or a thoughtful solo pour.

Terra Vega Malbec — Valle Central, Chile 2023 · 375ml Half Bottle

Terra Vega draws on Chile’s long winegrowing tradition, pairing that heritage with modern winemaking. This Malbec comes from Valle Central in a 375ml half bottle, a convenient format for a smaller dinner or a glass or two without opening a full-size bottle.

The winemaker describes a deep ruby color, berries and cherries on the nose, with black pepper and light vanilla and chocolate notes. Plum and spice carry through a juicy, structured palate. Pour it with grilled meats, hearty vegetables or a simple weeknight supper.

This Malbec shows an intense, deep ruby red color. In the nose are aromas of berries, cherries, followed with notes of black pepper and light touches of vanilla and chocolate. On the palate, notes of plums and spices stand out with an impeccable structure and juiciness.

Terra Vega · Winemaker Description

• Producer: Terra Vega
• Vintage: 2023
• Region: Valle Central, Chile
• Varietal: Malbec
• Size: 375ml half bottle
• Tasting Notes: Berries, cherries, plum, black pepper, vanilla, chocolate and spice, per the winemaker
• Best Paired With: Grilled meats or hearty vegetables

Chilean Malbec in a half-bottle format, made for a satisfying pour at a smaller table.

The Pinot Project · Pinot Noir · California Coastal · 2024 · 375ml Half Bottle

The Pinot Project was built on a simple premise: make genuinely good Pinot Noir from California’s best coastal growing regions, without the price tag that usually comes with it. The 2024 draws from a trio of complementary AVAs — Monterey and San Benito on the Central Coast, and Suisun Valley in the north — each contributing its own character to the blend. The diversity of soils and cool-climate conditions across these regions is what gives this wine its remarkable balance and depth. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and destemmed to preserve bright fruit and freshness. At $9.99 for a 375ml half bottle (compare at $11.99), this is California coastal Pinot Noir that punches well above its price.

Garnet in the glass with a nose of dark cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, and a hint of cacao. On the palate: medium-bodied and smooth, with fine-grained tannins, flavors of ripe strawberry, dark cherry, and cranberry, and a clean, lingering finish. Drink now through 2026.

• Producer: The Pinot Project
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California (Monterey · San Benito · Suisun Valley)
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, cacao, ripe strawberry, cranberry, fine-grained tannins, smooth finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2026
• Food Pairings: Salmon, roast chicken, mushroom pasta, charcuterie, soft-ripened cheese

Three California coastal AVAs, one beautifully balanced Pinot — the half bottle that earns a permanent spot in the fridge door.

Cavit | Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC | 2024 | 187ml Split

The same benchmark Italian Pinot Grigio that made Cavit the #1 Italian wine in America — now in a single-serve 187ml Split. Sourced from the broad Venezie DOC across Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, and Friuli, the 2024 vintage is dry, light, and refreshingly crisp, with notes of citrus zest, white peach, and green apple on a clean mineral finish. A perfect pour for the aperitivo hour, or alongside pasta in cream sauce, risotto, veal, chicken, and fresh seafood. Serve well chilled.

Grape: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Venezie DOC, Italy
Vintage: 2024
Format: 187ml Split

Emilio Moro Ribera del Duero 2021 375ml Half Bottle

Bodegas Emilio Moro is one of Ribera del Duero's most beloved family estates — four generations of the Moro family have dedicated themselves body and soul to winemaking for over 100 years in the heart of Castilla y León. Their flagship Ribera del Duero is a 100% Tempranillo aged in French and American oak, crafted to express the full depth and elegance of this iconic Spanish appellation. This 375ml half bottle delivers the complete Emilio Moro experience in a format perfect for two glasses or a solo indulgence.

The 2021 vintage is serious and elegant — deep garnet in color, with a nose that opens slowly and builds in intensity and aromatic complexity. On the palate it is well-structured with ripe, silky tannins and a persistent, satisfying finish that rewards patience in the glass.

"This 100% Tempranillo aged in French and American oak exudes seductive aromas of violets, fresh blueberry, vanilla, and oak that merge with a satin-lined rush of berries and chocolate. A juicy stream of vanilla latte unfurls within the exquisite mouthfeel before violets bloom on the finish, seasoned with cigar leaf and tilled soil." — Tasting Panel, 93 pts

• Producer: Bodegas Emilio Moro, Pesquera de Duero, Ribera del Duero, Spain
• Appellation: Ribera del Duero DO
• Grape: 100% Tempranillo
• Vintage: 2021
• Aging: French and American oak
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Tasting Notes: Violets, blueberry, cherry, plum, vanilla, chocolate, cigar leaf, silky tannins, persistent finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, Iberian pork, grilled ribeye, aged Manchego, or charcuterie

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Tasting Panel — 93 Points
This 100% Tempranillo aged in French and American oak exudes seductive aromas of violets, fresh blueberry, vanilla, and oak that merge with a satin-lined rush of berries and chocolate. A juicy stream of vanilla latte unfurls within the exquisite mouthfeel before violets bloom on the finish, seasoned with cigar leaf and tilled soil.

James Suckling — 91 Points
Nicely expressive, with plenty of cherries, plums and spiced blue fruit. Medium-bodied with chalky tannins and a juicy. Firm and pretty long.

One of Spain’s most celebrated Tempranillos in a perfect half-bottle format — Emilio Moro delivers Ribera del Duero at its most expressive and satisfying.

Expert Review 

95 Points Tasting Panel | On the heels of intense aromas of marzipan and honeyed peach follows one of the silkiest mouthfeels imaginable, with a weighty caress of cocoa and almond on the palate that lingers until the next sip.

Producer Description 

The velvety smooth taste and unmistakable aroma gave Disaronno the reputation of the world’s favorite Italian liqueur, which is stated proudly on its label. 

Castello di Volpaia · Chianti Classico Organic · 2024 · 375ml Half Bottle

Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Organic 2024 brings a fresh red-fruit profile to the table in a convenient half bottle. From Tuscany's Chianti Classico region, this Sangiovese-based red offers vivid ruby color, cherry-accented aromatics and a well-structured palate.

The producer emphasizes freshness and fruit, with red-fruit aromas carrying through to a fruity finish. The 375ml format makes it a practical choice for a smaller dinner or for exploring Chianti Classico without opening a full-size bottle.

Winemaker Description

Castello di Volpaia: The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish.

Tasting Notes

Vivid ruby in the glass. Fresh red fruit and hints of cherry on the nose lead into a well-structured palate and a fruity finish.

Food Pairings & Serving

Suggested pairings include tomato-based pasta, grilled meats, mushroom dishes and aged pecorino. Serve slightly below room temperature alongside a relaxed Tuscan-inspired meal.

Wine Details

• Producer: Castello di Volpaia
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chianti Classico
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Sangiovese-based
• Farming: Organic
• Style: Red wine
• Bottle size: 375ml half bottle

Fresh cherry character and Tuscan structure, sized for a smaller table.

Winemaker Description 

Certainly! The Herederos De Argueso Jerez-Xeres-Sherry Amontillado is a dry and nutty white wine from Andalucia, Spain. It has sharp peanutty aromas and a tawny color with hints of orange. On the palate, it offers sour citrus fruit flavors, burnt nuts, and cocoa, finishing dry and chalky. You can find it in a 375ml half bottle for around $25. It’s a delightful choice for those who appreciate intense, tangy flavors. 🍷🥜🍊

Argeso Amontillado is an exquisite fortified wine of subtlety and grace. On the nose, it unfurls a spectrum of delicate scents reminiscent of hazelnuts and aromatic herbs, with a distinctive hint of dark tobacco.

Upon tasting, its lightness astonishes, yet it retains a marked dryness and a complexity that unfolds gently. This Amontillado exemplifies the artful dance between simplicity and intricacy, presenting a sophisticated and approachable taste experience. 

Chateau du Hureau Saumur-Champigny Tuffe 2023 375ml · Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France

Winemaker Notes

Philippe Vatan’s Tuffe is made from a wide variety of parcels spread across his limestone-rich vineyards. Classic Cabernet Franc notes of black raspberry and savory herbs, finishing with well-integrated tannins and effortless elegance.

The Estate

The Château du Hureau is located in the small town of Dampierre-sur-Loire, about four miles east of Saumur and 15 miles west of Chinon. The Château itself is an impressive sight, with its 18th-century Mansard roof and octagonal tower topped by a boar-headed weathercock, from which the domaine takes its name—an hureau is an old, solitary wild boar. Behind the Château sits the winery, which was carved out of the limestone cliffs in the 13th century and overlooks the Loire river. For wine lovers, the cave is even more impressive than the Château, with numerous paths leading to carved out caverns housing stainless steel vinification equipment and lines of barrels. It reminds one of being in a James Bond movie! Seventeen hectares (42 acres) including 21 separate vineyard plots are spread around the towns of Dampierre-sur-Loire, Souzay, Champigny and Saumur and are planted with Cabernet Franc. What links all of the plots is “tuffeau” (tufa/limestone), a kind of soft chalk from the Cretaceous period (146 to 65 million years ago). In Latin “creta” means chalk. The underlying tuffeau is the defining factor in Saumur-Champigny’s distinctive quality, and it also provides the name for this beautiful red.

Food Pairings

A versatile food wine — excellent with roasted chicken, duck, salmon, mushroom dishes, charcuterie, and soft Loire cheeses.

Details

• Bottle Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
• Region: Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France
• Grape: Cabernet Franc
• Type: Red
• Farming: Organic

Winemaker Description 

When Edmond de AYALA founded the House in 1860, he focussed on crafting a champagne with a distinct and recognisable style, known today as AYALA Brut Majeur. A pure and balanced champagne which showcases the diverse personalities of Champagne’s different Terroirs.

Crafted with a unique diversity of crus from Champagne’s vineyard, this cuvée is a multi-cru and multi-vintage blend with Chardonnay as main grape variety.

To preserve this pure style, the House brings its expertise and meticulous approach to the micro-vinification process, always with a minimum of intervention on wines.

Valdespino · Macharnudo Alto, Jerez · 375ml Half Bottle

Valdespino Ynocente Fino is a dry, single-vineyard Sherry made from Palomino Fino grown in Macharnudo Alto. This 375ml half bottle offers a concentrated expression of Jerez, with pronounced salinity, chalky intensity and an austere, mineral structure.

Producer & Vineyard

Valdespino’s flagship Fino comes from Macharnudo Alto, a vineyard distinguished by its pure white albariza soils. Fermentation takes place in 600-liter wooden casks without added yeasts, a traditional approach that sets the wine apart.

Tasting Notes

Iodine and salt mingle with ripe white fruit, nuts and exotic spices. Dry and firmly structured, the wine’s stony character and saline intensity make it a compelling companion to seafood.

Expert Review · 

Wine & Spirits, 95 Points | Inocente is Valdespino’s flagship, a wine from the Macharnudo Alto vineyard, where the soil is pure white albariza. It ferments in 600-liter wooden casks without added yeasts, a practice that has become increasingly rare in Jerez. The intensity of the wine’s salinity is remarkable—iodine and salt—coming together with ripe white fruit, scents of nuts and exotic spices. The structure is dry and austere, like drinking the juice of stones. This will last for a decade in the cellar, but it’s impossible to hold onto a bottle if there’s raw seafood nearby.

Historical Expert Review · Autumn 2016 Magnum Bottling

The following review concerns a special magnum release, not the current 375ml bottling.

Robert Parker, 94+ Points | As with many other wines from the José Estévez group, there is a special bottling of Valdespino's flagship NV Fino Inocente in magnum, but in this case they have kept the bottles for six months as the wine is from the saca otoño 2016, the autumn bottling from 2016. So the wine is offered with some extra bottle age. It has all that you expect from Inocente, a long aging wine fermented in bota from grapes grown exclusively in the Macharnudo Alto vineyard and bottled with an average age of ten years. All the textbook aromas and flavors are there, coupled with the elegance and mineral intensity the Macharnudo white chalky soils provide. Customers who purchase one of this scarce magnums probably know Inocente already. This will have a longer development in bottle.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with oysters, raw seafood, grilled shrimp, olives or salted almonds.

Details

• Producer: Valdespino
• Wine: Ynocente Fino
• Country: Spain
• Region: Andalucía
• Appellation: Jerez-Xérès-Sherry
• Vineyard: Macharnudo Alto
• Grape: Palomino Fino
• Type: Fino Sherry
• Style: Dry
• Size: 375ml half bottle
• Soil: White albariza
• Fermentation: 600-liter wooden casks, without added yeasts

Pommery Champagne Brut Royal NV — Half Bottle (375ml)

Pommery is one of Champagne’s most storied and innovative houses, founded in 1836 and famously credited with introducing the first successful dry “Brut” style Champagne to the world in 1874 — a style they have been perfecting ever since. Based in Reims, Pommery is known for its elegant, refined approach and its iconic Art Nouveau cellars, carved deep into the chalk beneath the city. Brut Royal is the house’s signature non-vintage expression: an equal blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, crafted to showcase the balance, finesse, and minerality that define the Pommery style. Now available in a 375ml half-bottle.

The Wall Street Journal’s Lettie Teague describes it as “a lithesome, compulsively drinkable dry sparkler with notes of citrus and pear and a long minerally finish” — and calls it “a terrific aperitif.” The nose is civilized and elegant, with apple, lemon, peach, grapefruit, biscuit, and dried fruit. The palate is creamy and round, with citric balance, real poise, and a refreshing bite of citrus on the finish. Sleek bubbles throughout.

Decanter — 93 points

“Civilised apple, lemon and dried fruit nose. There’s a nice lift in the mouth with citric balance and real poise. Full of character.”

James Suckling — 92 points

“Peach, lemon, grapefruit, biscuit and some honey on the nose. Creamy and round with a juicy, peachy palate. Sleek bubbles. Base vintage 2018.”

Wine Enthusiast — 90 points

“A reference in the region. Fine balance, rich but with good touches of minerality and crisp white fruits. The finish with its bite of citrus is attractively refreshing.”

Wall Street Journal — Lettie Teague

“A lithesome, compulsively drinkable dry sparkler with notes of citrus and pear and a long minerally finish… a terrific aperitif.”

Food Pairings

Oysters, smoked salmon, sushi, soft cheeses, and light appetizers. Perfect as an aperitif or to open any celebration.

Blend: Equal parts Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
Appellation: Champagne AOC, France
Style: Brut NV (base vintage 2018, 9–10 g/L dosage)
Format: 375ml (Half Bottle)
Scores: 93 pts Decanter | 92 pts James Suckling | 90 pts Wine Enthusiast