Red Wine

Castello di Bossi · Chianti Classico DOCG · 2023

From a historic estate founded in 1099 and farmed for over four decades by the Bacci family, Castello di Bossi stands as one of Chianti Classico's most trusted names. Situated just south of Siena on 600 hectares of rolling Tuscan hills, the estate is fully certified organic, powered by renewable energy, and committed to wines that speak honestly of their terroir.

The 2023 Chianti Classico Organic delivers everything you want from a great Sangiovese — deep ruby-red in color, with aromas of ripe cherries, red plums, dried flowers, and a subtle hint of toasted vanilla. The palate is superbly structured with bright acidity, silky tannins, and a long, pleasantly savory finish that lingers beautifully. Pure, expressive, and undeniably delicious.

93 Points — James Suckling
"Aromatic with dried cherries and flowers with some mint and spices. Medium-bodied with crunchy fruit and a crisp finish. Delicious. Pure Sangiovese. So delicious and real." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Castello di Bossi
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Grape Variety: Sangiovese
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe cherries, red plums, dried flowers, toasted vanilla, bright acidity, savory finish
• Food Pairings: Grilled bistecca fiorentina, braised lamb, aged Pecorino, Tuscan ragu

A benchmark Chianti Classico at an everyday price — drink now through 2028.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Bernie & Dorothy, Paulo & Barbara, and Annie — Follow the Drinker® (August 2025)
This is just a terrific wine. We drank it with burgers, roast chicken, and hanger steaks — and it just worked so well. 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah, the wine fills your mouth with black fruit and cherry-like flavors and does it all in a gentle way. Finishes absolutely clean, fresh, and mouthwatering. Everyone enjoyed drinking it.

Winemaker Description

Ruby red, nicely bright. Fresh cherry and blackberry on the nose with notes of cracked pepper. Dark berry and touches of anise on the palate, with sweet cherries and raspberry. The quality of winemaking is evident — a Parisian brasserie favorite.

Product Details

• Producer: Domaine Pélaquié
• Region: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Blend: 50% Grenache, 50% Syrah
• Vintage: 2023
• Drinking Window: Now–2030
• Format: 750ml

Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico — Tuscany 2022

Fèlsina is the benchmark estate of Castelnuovo Berardenga, the sun-drenched southeastern corner of Chianti Classico where the zone spills toward Siena. The 2022 Berardenga is immediate and effusive — a wine that wears its terroir openly: Maritime pine, Mediterranean scrub, wild broom, and ripe strawberry, all framed by the estate's signature rocky minerality. Antonio Galloni called it "an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga" and awarded it 91 points. At $29.99, it is one of the most compelling values in Chianti Classico.

The nose is bright and expressive: black cherry, wild berries, leather, warm spice, tobacco, and dried herbs. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine tannins, juicy berry fruit, and a lift of spice that carries through to a long, tactile finish. Balanced, vibrant, and built to drink beautifully now through 2033.

Expert Reviews

Vinous 91 — Antonio Galloni writes: "Superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Black cherry, leather, spice, tobacco, menthol and dried herbs inform this potent, super-classic Chianti Classico. This is beautifully done, especially for the year. Drinking 2024–2037."

James Suckling 92 — "A well-balanced, seductive and lively red with aromas of forest berries, red currants, warm herbs and some crushed peppercorns. It's medium-bodied with fine tannins. Juicy berry character with a lift of spices bringing energy and vitality on the palate and onto the tactile finish. Drink now."

Wine Spectator 90 — Bruce Sanderson writes: "Walking the line between cherry and berry flavors and earth and iron notes, this red is bright and juicy midpalate, firming up on the long finish. Balanced overall, needing a year to knit together. Best from 2026 through 2033."

Decanter 91 — Michaela Morris writes: "At the southeastern end of Chianti Classico, the Fèlsina property spills into the Chianti Colli Senesi zone where, on a clear day you can see all the way to Siena, just 15km away. Harnessing its sunbathed setting, the 2022 is immediate and effusive in its charms. It evokes Maritime pine, scrubby Mediterranean brush and wild yellow broom, building in concentration as it glides fluently across the palate, where rocky minerals meet ripe strawberry. Vibrant, if a bit brisk to finish. Drinking 2024 to 2029."

• Producer: Fèlsina, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, wild berries, leather, spice, tobacco, dried herbs, rocky minerals
• Drink Window: Now–2033
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino, pasta al pomodoro, grilled lamb

A 90+ Chianti Classico at an honest price — Fèlsina Berardenga is the benchmark for what Castelnuovo Berardenga Sangiovese can be.

Cloudline Pinot Noir — Willamette Valley, Oregon 2024

Cloudline is produced by the team behind Domaine Drouhin Oregon — one of the Willamette Valley's most celebrated and historic estates, founded in 1987 when the Drouhin family of Burgundy recognized the extraordinary potential of Oregon's Dundee Hills for producing world-class Pinot Noir. Cloudline is their approachable, everyday expression of the Willamette Valley: sourced from select vineyards across the appellation, it is crafted to capture the signature warmth, spice, and red fruit character of Oregon Pinot Noir in a vibrant, food-friendly style that overdelivers at every price point. The Willamette Valley's cool, maritime-influenced climate and volcanic Jory soils provide the ideal conditions for Pinot Noir — producing wines of genuine elegance, freshness, and typicity that have made Oregon one of the world's great Pinot Noir regions.

The color is bright ruby with luminous clarity. The nose is warm and inviting — fresh raspberry, cherry, and strawberry with a distinctive spicy lift that speaks to the Willamette Valley's volcanic soils. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and fresh with a round, velvety texture, soft tannins, and a supple, fruit-forward finish. A quintessential introduction to Oregon Pinot Noir — fresh, elegant, and endlessly food-friendly.

"Cloudline Pinot Noir shines from the glass with bright ruby reflections. The nose is inviting and uniquely Willamette Valley — warm and spicy with cherry, raspberry, and strawberry aromas. In the mouth the fruit is fresh and vibrant with round, velvety tannins on the supple finish." — Bart Hopkins, 67Wine

• Producer: Cloudline Cellars / Domaine Drouhin Oregon, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, cherry, strawberry, warm spice, round velvety texture, soft tannins, supple fruit-forward finish
• Style: Medium-bodied, fresh, elegant
• Serve: Slightly cool (58–62°F)
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Roasted salmon, duck breast, mushroom risotto, charcuterie, mild cheeses, roast chicken

The Willamette Valley's most approachable Pinot Noir — Cloudline 2024 is warm, spicy, and one of Oregon's great everyday reds.

L’Umami · Pinot Noir · Willamette Valley · 2024

The name says it all. L’Umami is built around the savory, earthy dimension that makes Willamette Valley Pinot Noir so compelling — that fifth flavor that lingers on the palate and makes you reach for another glass. Sourced from Oregon’s premier cool-climate appellation, this is a fresh, clean, food-friendly Pinot that showcases the classic Willamette profile: ripe cherry and plum fruit layered with mushroom, earth, and a hint of smoke. Screwcap for maximum freshness. At $19.99 (compare at $23.99), this is ready-to-drink Willamette Valley Pinot Noir at a price that makes it an easy weeknight yes.

The 2024 opens with terrific aromas of earthy dark fruits, juicy cherry, spiced blackberry, and plum. On the palate: savory and supple, with flavors of cherry, earth, plum, and a hint of smoke and sundried tomato. Well-balanced with smooth, velvety tannins and subtle oak spice that carries through to a clean, lingering finish. Drink now through 2027.

“A terrific value in ready-to-drink, flavorful fruit-forward Willamette Valley Pinot Noir… savory character with subtle oak and spice. Well balanced and supple textured with smooth velvety tannins.”
— Bart Hopkins, 67wino.shop

• Producer: L’Umami
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Earthy dark fruit, juicy cherry, spiced blackberry, plum, mushroom, smoke, sundried tomato, velvety tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Food Pairings: Wild mushroom risotto, roast chicken, duck breast with cherry reduction, Gruyère, charcuterie

Savory, earthy, and supple — Willamette Valley Pinot Noir built for the table, not the cellar.

St. Francis · Cabernet Sauvignon · Sonoma County 2022

St. Francis brings decades of Sonoma County Cabernet experience to this 2022 bottling, drawing from estate and selected vineyards across the region. Rich and structured yet approachable, it offers the depth of Cabernet without needing a special occasion.

Deep ruby in the glass, with cassis, dark cherry and black olive on the nose. Dark plum and cherry preserves carry through the palate, followed by roasted coffee bean. Smooth tannins and lively acidity make it a natural partner for dinner.

At the table

Pour alongside grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops or hearty pasta with meat sauce. Aged hard cheeses also fit its dark-fruited profile.

Wine details

• Producer: St. Francis Winery
• Vintage: 2022
• Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Region: Sonoma County, California, United States
• Style: Red wine
• Size: 750ml

Sonoma Cabernet with dark fruit, smooth tannins and room at the dinner table.

El Coto Crianza — Rioja, Spain 2022

El Coto is Spain's most beloved Rioja — a winery founded on a simple and powerful idea: that exceptional quality and honest value should never be mutually exclusive. The 2022 Crianza is crafted entirely from Tempranillo grown at the estate's Oyón winery, fermented with rigorous temperature control for optimal structure and color extraction, then aged a minimum of 12 months in selected 225-litre American oak barrels and at least 6 months in bottle before release. The result is a smooth, silky, and beautifully balanced Crianza that has earned a Gold Medal at the 2025 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles — and overdelivers at its price point vintage after vintage.

The nose is fresh and inviting: bright raspberry, ripe cherry, vanilla, and emblematic toasted oak aromas with well-integrated spice. On the palate, the wine is silky and persistent with layered fruit, soft tannins, and a smooth, lingering finish with integrated spicy flavors. It is approachable, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly food-friendly — the kind of Rioja Crianza that never fails.

"El Coto Crianza is exceptionally balanced with layers of fresh raspberry, cherry, spice and toasted oak, building to a silky finish. Silky and persistent on the palate, with well-integrated spicy flavors." — Winemaker's Notes, El Coto de Rioja

• Producer: El Coto de Rioja, Oyón, Rioja, Spain
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: DOCa Rioja, Spain
• Varietal: Tempranillo
• Aging: 12+ months American oak + 6+ months bottle — vanilla, toasted oak & spice complexity
• Closure: Cork
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh raspberry, ripe cherry, vanilla, toasted oak, soft tannins, silky finish
• Awards: Gold Medal — Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2025
• Best Paired With: Iberian ham, aged Manchego, roast lamb, grilled chorizo, jamon, cheese boards

Spain's most accessible Rioja Crianza at an honest price — El Coto is the benchmark for what balanced, American oak-aged Tempranillo can deliver for everyone.

Winemaker Notes

Embodying the luxurious beauty of great Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, this alluring wine draws you in with complex aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, and sweet baking spices. Supple, round tannins frame juicy layers of dark berries and chocolate, with sophisticated hints of white pepper and toasty oak on a long, resonant finish.

About the Wine

The Decoy Limited series represents a step up from the standard Decoy line — sourced from a single premium appellation rather than a broader California blend. This bottling showcases Alexander Valley, one of Sonoma County’s most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon regions, known for its warm days, cool nights, and gravelly benchland soils that produce rich, structured reds.

Backed by the Duckhorn Portfolio — one of Napa and Sonoma’s most respected wine families — Decoy Limited delivers serious quality at a fraction of the flagship price.

Tasting & Pairings

Black cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, chocolate, baking spices, white pepper, and toasty oak. Supple and round with juicy dark fruit and a long finish.

• Grilled ribeye or NY strip — the supple tannins and dark fruit are built for steak night.
• Braised short ribs — the chocolate and baking spice notes complement slow-cooked, rich meats.
• Aged cheddar or Gouda — the oak and dark berry character pairs beautifully with firm, nutty cheeses.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Bart Hopkins, 67Wine
Stephanie Fumoso is the great-granddaughter of Eugène Bonfils, who founded Domaine Gour de Chaulé in 1900. The estate has 10 hectares in the village of Gigondas, planted mainly to Grenache with small percentages of Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. The 2022 Cuvée Tradition is a pure expression of this beautiful part of the Southern Rhône — juicy, herb-infused strawberry fruit on the nose accented with crushed pepper and savory spices. Energetic and lively in the mouth, with a gentle grip of tannins and a lick of acidity on the long, elegant finish. Well balanced and perfectly suited to the dinner table — serve with braised meats, roasted vegetables, and hearty Mediterranean dishes.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

James Suckling — 93 Points
"A refined, chiseled and bright red based mostly on Grenache with the addition of Syrah and Mourvèdre. The nose is precise and charming, with notes of wild strawberries, dried flowers, wet stones, and baking spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Fresh and well-balanced. Beautiful volume. Silky texture with a purity of fruit and a harmonious finish. Drink or hold."

Vinous — 93 Points
"The full-bodied 2022 Gigondas Cuvée Tradition 1871 is a total delight. Succulent red fruits mingle with floral tones and a pinch of dried herbs. Smooth tannins and bright acidity neatly structure this silky-textured Gigondas, which culminates with a concentrated, sapid finish. Give it two more years in bottle to develop even more complexity."

About the Vineyard

Several important vineyard sites form this Gigondas, including Gour de Chaulé, Les Blaches, and Les Bousquets. The Grenache vines average well over a half century in age, contributing the concentration and complexity that defines this cuvée.

Product Details

• Producer: Domaine Gour de Chaulé
• Region: Gigondas AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Blend: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault
• Vine Age: 50+ years
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Full-bodied, structured Southern Rhône red
• Format: 750ml

Allegrini · Palazzo della Torre · Veronese IGT · Veneto, Italy · 2023 · 750ml

Allegrini is one of the Veneto's most important wine families, with roots in Fumane di Valpolicella stretching back to the 16th century. Palazzo della Torre is their signature Veronese IGT — a wine that has quietly become one of Italy's great overachievers. Blended from Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and a touch of Sangiovese, it undergoes a partial ripasso-style process: a portion of the grapes are dried before fermentation, adding concentration, depth, and structure that punch well above the wine's price point. The result is a bottle that drinks like an Amarone's younger sibling — at a fraction of the cost. At $20.99, this is the Italian red you reach for when you want to impress without overthinking it.

Deep ruby in the glass with a generous, dark-fruited nose of black cherry, blackberry, ash, incense, and a hint of dark chocolate. On the palate: full-bodied and richly textured, with lush fruit framed by graphite, crisp acidity, and tight, youthful tannins that give the wine real structure and aging potential. James Suckling awarded it 93 points for the 2023 vintage. Drink now through 2029, or cellar for a few years to let the tannins soften and the complexity deepen. Pair with braised short ribs, lamb ragu, aged pecorino, or a simple plate of charcuterie.

• Producer: Allegrini (est. Fumane di Valpolicella, Veneto)
• Wine: Palazzo della Torre · Veronese IGT
• Vintage: 2023
• Origin: Veneto, Italy
• Blend: Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Sangiovese
• Method: Partial ripasso-style drying process
• Style: Full-bodied, structured Veneto red
• Score: James Suckling 93 Points
• Drinking Window: Now–2029
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, blackberry, ash, incense, dark chocolate, graphite, crisp acidity, chewy tannins
• Pair With: Braised short ribs · Lamb ragu · Aged pecorino · Charcuterie

Ripasso depth, Amarone soul — Allegrini's most reliable overachiever.

Château Mont-Redon is one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most storied estates, but their reach extends across the Southern Rhône with a purpose: to make wines that express the region’s best terroirs at every level. The Réserve Côtes du Rhône is sourced from 25 hectares of estate vines planted on stony limestone-clay soils around Orange and Roquemaure, supplemented by fruit from trusted top growers across the appellation — a Réserve in the truest sense, selected for quality above volume.

The 2024 is a blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah, vinified with whole-cluster pressing to preserve freshness and natural aromatics. Grenache brings the warmth, the ripe red fruit, and the silky roundness that defines the Southern Rhône; Syrah sharpens the structure, deepens the color, and adds a peppery lift that carries through the finish. The result is a wine that is both generous and precise — Southern Rhône at its most approachable, without surrendering any of its character.

Deep in color with an expressive, complex nose of ripe cherry, plum, and dark fruit, with a whisper of chocolate and garrigue. The mouth is rich and well-structured, with fine tannins, a lush mid-palate, and a lightly spicy finish. Drink now or over the next 3–5 years.

• Producer: Château Mont-Redon
• Appellation: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône, France
• Blend: 75% Grenache, 25% Syrah
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

Food Pairings: Grilled rib steak, lamb chops, game terrine, cured ham, and aged cheeses. A natural at the dinner table.

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | A bright, balanced red, with an aromatic overtone of medicinal herbs and spices accenting flavors of macerated cherry and raspberry fruit, stone, smoke, milled pepper and paprika. Lightly chewy on the finish. Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Drink now through 2033. (Vintage 2023). 

Winemaker Notes

Benanti Etna Rosso is pale ruby red in color. The bouquet is ethereal and intense, with spicy red fruit aromas. Well balanced and medium-bodied, with a mineral-rich complexity, pleasant acidity, and a saline freshness on the long and lively finish.

Food Pairings

A versatile wine that pairs beautifully with red meats, aged cheeses, grilled fish, and white meats. Equally excellent by the glass.

Product Details

• Producer: Benanti
• Region: Etna DOC, Sicily, Italy
• Grape: Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Volcanic red — mineral, floral, saline
• Format: 750ml

Le Sughere di Frassinello Maremma Toscana — Tuscany 2022

Le Sughere di Frassinello is the flagship red of the Frassinello estate — a joint venture between Rocca di Frassinello and the Castellare di Castellina family on Tuscany’s wild, sun-drenched Maremma coast. Blending Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon from coastal vineyards where the Mediterranean influence tempers the heat and concentrates flavor, this is a Super Tuscan that delivers serious complexity without sacrificing drinkability. James Suckling awarded it 91 points; Vinous 90. At under $27, it is one of the most compelling values in coastal Tuscan wine.

Deep ruby in color. The nose is broad and expressive: ripe dark berries, plum skin, blueberry jam, dried orange, blue flowers, and cedar. On the palate, it is juicy and tense, with firm, ripe tannins, impressive fruit concentration, and a long, enveloping finish of black cherry and spice. It delivers the bold, coastal personality that only great Maremma Sangiovese can — and will reward another 5–8 years in the cellar.

James Suckling 91 — “Aromas of ripe dark berries, plum skin and blueberry jam with hints of blue flowers, dried oranges, spices and cedar. Juicy and tense on the palate, with firm tannins and impressive fruit concentration. Succulent and easy to drink.” (Vintage 2022).

Vinous 90 — “Bold, racy and super-expressive right out of the gate. Black cherry, spice, leather and a kiss of French oak open first. This aromatic, inviting coastal red has so much to offer in its engaging personality.” (Vintage 2022). 

Bart, 67Wine Buyer — “This beautifully crafted Super Tuscan will impress everyone at the table with its succulent fruit, plush texture, and savory complexity.”

• Producer: Frassinello Estate, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Maremma Toscana DOC
• Blend: Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark berries, plum, blueberry, dried orange, cedar, black cherry, spice
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–8 years
• Best Paired With: Wild boar, braised short ribs, game birds, full-flavored pasta, aged Pecorino

A 91-point Super Tuscan at an honest price — Le Sughere di Frassinello is the benchmark for what coastal Maremma can be.

Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Biodynamic Organic 2022

About the Producer

Avignonesi is one of Tuscany's most celebrated and progressive estates. Under the leadership of Virginie Saverys, it has become a benchmark for biodynamic and organic viticulture in Italy. Their Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is sourced from high-altitude vineyards where clay-rich soils and diurnal temperature swings produce Sangiovese of exceptional freshness, acidity, and complexity.

Winemaker's Notes

Bright purplish-red in colour with vibrant intensity. On the nose, small red berries and pomegranate open alongside the unmistakable violet note typical of quality Sangiovese, with subtle hints of vanilla and delicate oak. On the palate, the entry is lively and well-balanced — expressive and crisp, with sweet notes of ripe cherry, plum jam, and nuances of liquorice on the finish. Dynamic and elegant body, well-defined tannins, and a smooth, enveloping texture. A fresh streak of acidity carries the persistent finish.

Food Pairings

• Meats: Roast lamb with rosemary, wild boar ragù, Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
• Pasta: Pici with aglione or mushroom risotto.
• Cheese: Aged Pecorino Toscano. A natural partner for traditional Tuscan fare.

Wine Details

• Producer: Avignonesi
• Appellation: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile)
• Farming: Certified biodynamic and organic
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Elegant, high-acid, terroir-driven Tuscan red
• Format: 750ml

Di Majo Norante Sangiovese — Molise, Italy 2021

Di Majo Norante is one of southern Italy's most important estates — a winery built on the often-overlooked terroir of Molise, where the Adriatic coast and rolling hillside vineyards produce wines of remarkable value and authenticity. The 2021 Sangiovese is crafted from estate-grown fruit fermented to preserve the grape's natural character: bright red berry fruit, violet florals, and a dry, food-friendly structure that has made this bottling a perennial overachiever at its price point. The result is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-drink red with just enough complexity to reward attention.

The nose is expressive and inviting: violets, ripe plums, cherries, blueberries, and red berries, with subtle undertones of leather, anise, and sweet spice. On the palate, the wine is dry and medium-bodied with smooth, chalky tannins, bright acidity, and a clean, spiced finish. It is approachable, versatile, and deeply satisfying — the kind of Italian red that disappears fast at the dinner table.

"A rich sangiovese with ripe plums, cherries, blueberries and vanilla on the nose. Chalky and powdery on the palate with a full body and sweetly-spiced finish." — James Suckling, 89 Points

• Producer: Di Majo Norante, Campomarino, Molise, Italy
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Molise DOC
• Varietal: Sangiovese
• Aging: Estate-crafted for bright fruit, smooth tannins & food-friendly structure
• Closure: Cork
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Violets, ripe plums, cherries, blueberries, red berries, leather, anise, sweet spice, clean finish
• Best Paired With: Pasta bolognese, wood-fired pizza, grilled lamb, aged pecorino, charcuterie boards

Southern Italy's most reliable overachiever — Di Majo Norante Sangiovese is the benchmark for what honest, estate-grown Molise red can deliver at an honest price.

Château Bel-Air Lussac Saint-Émilion 2020 — Bordeaux, France

Château Bel-Air is a benchmark estate in Lussac Saint-Émilion, the satellite appellation just north of Saint-Émilion proper, where clay-limestone soils and a cooler microclimate produce Merlot and Cabernet Franc of remarkable depth and elegance. The 2020 Cuvée Jean & Gabriel — equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, raised in one-third new French oak — is a standout achievement in an exceptional vintage. James Suckling awarded it 92 points; the Wine Advocate 91; Jeb Dunnuck 90 — calling it “well worth seeking out” with 8–10 years of prime drinking ahead.

The nose is complex and inviting: crushed raspberries and blackberries, kirsch, lavender, dark spices, and a whisper of wild mushroom and damp earth. On the palate it is medium- to full-bodied, with savory layers of red and black fruit, soft tannins, and a seamless, balanced finish of outstanding length.

James Suckling 92 • Wine Advocate 91 • Jeb Dunnuck 90 — “Seamless, balanced mouthfeel and outstanding length.”

• Producer: Château Bel-Air, Lussac Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Lussac Saint-Émilion AOC
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Franc
• Aging: One-third new French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, kirsch, lavender, dark spice, earthy, seamless finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–10 years
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, beef bourguignon, aged Comté, mushroom risotto

A 92-point Right Bank Bordeaux at an honest price — Château Bel-Air is the benchmark for what Lussac Saint-Émilion can be.

Winemaker Description

An undeniably juicy Pinot Noir that bursts with cherries, raspberries and a touch of cassis. Rich flavors of fresh fruit join with soft oak to create a beautifully long, smooth finish filled with sweet vanilla.

Food Pairings

• Roasted mushrooms or mushroom risotto
• Duck breast with cherry reduction
• Salmon, tuna, or light charcuterie
• Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert

Product Details

• Producer: Bread & Butter Wines
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: California
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

Jordan Winery · Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon · 2020

Jordan's 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon pairs the depth of ripe dark fruit with the freshness and acidity that define its balanced style. Black cherry, currant, and boysenberry meet delicate cedar, while blueberry, cranberry, and clove carry across a smooth, French-oak-framed palate.

Full-bodied and polished, with silky tannins and bright acidity, this Alexander Valley Cabernet is enjoyable now and has the structure to age gracefully. The winemaker recommends decanting for 60 minutes or cellaring through 2040.

Expert Reviews · Vintage 2020

James Suckling · 94 Points: A discreet and savory nose of blackcurrants, tobacco leaves, coffee beans, and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with silky tannins, bright acidity, and notes of dark cherries, olives, and beets. A well-balanced wine that will age gracefully. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast · 92 Points: The expressive nose gives aromas of black currant, plum, and tobacco with just a whisper of capsicum. The palate displays vibrant cranberry, black cherry, cigar, and black pepper flavors in a medium-bodied frame.

Winemaker Notes

Jordan Winery: Rich notes of ripe black cherry, currant, and boysenberry mingle gracefully with delicate cedar. On the palate, a harmonious balance unfolds with flavors of blueberry, cranberry, and clove, all embraced by smooth tannins from French oak barrels. The dark fruit flavors and subtle acidity leave a lasting impression.

Food Pairings

Beef bourguignon, duck confit, roasted chicken, mushroom risotto, and roasted vegetables.

At a Glance

• Producer: Jordan Winery
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec
• Aging: French oak barrels
• Format: 750ml
• Cellaring: Decant 60 minutes or cellar through 2040

A poised Alexander Valley Cabernet with ripe dark fruit, fresh acidity, and room to evolve.

Decoy by Duckhorn Pinot Noir California 2023 — California

Duckhorn Wine Company is one of Napa Valley’s most iconic producers, and Decoy is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to detail as their flagship wines but priced for the table. This California Pinot Noir draws from the state’s finest cool-climate growing regions, where the combination of coastal fog, moderate temperatures, and well-drained soils coaxes out the delicate aromatics and silky texture that define great Pinot Noir.

The 2023 is lush and alluring from the first pour. Aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black tea, and sage lead to rustic hints of earthy forest floor. On the palate, generous ripe berry flavors are framed by bright, balanced acidity and refined tannins that carry the wine to a long, silky finish.

“Lush and alluring — black cherry, wild strawberry, and sage with a long, silky finish.” — Winemaker’s Notes

• Producer: Duckhorn Wine Company (Decoy Label), California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black tea, sage, earthy forest floor, silky finish
• Best Paired With: Salmon, duck breast, mushroom risotto, charcuterie, roasted chicken, soft cheeses

Duckhorn craftsmanship at an everyday price — California Pinot Noir done right.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2022

94 pts — James Suckling
Bright and overtly fruity, this is full of intoxicating violets, cinnamon, blood oranges and black cherries, expressing mint and balsamic depth. Full-bodied with a soft, smooth attack, dusty yet velvety tannins and brilliant acidity. The chocolaty finish shows licorice and a mouth-coating texture. Delicious and balanced. Drink or hold.

93 pts — Vinous
The 2022 Barbaresco is a pretty rich, heady wine. Dark cherry/plum fruit, cloves, licorice and mocha build as the 2022 shows off its considerable depth. One of the few 2022s that is quite resonant texturally. The inclusion of some juice from Riserva lots is a great help. All things considered, this is a stellar showing.

92 pts — Jeb Dunnuck
Jeweled red color with aromas of ripe raspberry liqueur, fresh cherries, sweet herbs, and pressed flowers. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins and a clean, even finish. Juicy and approachable. Drink 2025–2040.

Winemaker Notes

Classic Barbaresco color with scents of spices, pepper, and black cherries. Powerful, firm, elegant, and ethereal.

About Produttori del Barbaresco

Founded in 1958, Produttori del Barbaresco is one of Italy's most revered wine cooperatives — and the benchmark producer for Barbaresco DOCG. The cooperative unites growers from the finest crus in the Barbaresco commune: Asili, Rabajà, Montefico, Montestefano, Ovello, Pora, and Rio Sordo. Under winemaker Aldo Vacca, Produttori remains committed to traditional Nebbiolo winemaking — long macerations, large Slavonian oak casks, and minimal intervention — producing wines of extraordinary purity, terroir expression, and age-worthiness at prices that consistently over-deliver.

Food Pairings

Fresh pasta with truffles or ragù, braised lamb, roasted game birds, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, and Barolo-braised short ribs. Cellar through 2040 or decant 2–3 hours before serving now.

Product Details

• Producer: Produttori del Barbaresco
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Vintage: 2022
• Aging: Large Slavonian oak casks
• Style: Full-bodied, structured, age-worthy
• Drink: Now–2040 (decant 2–3 hours)
• Format: 750ml

Oberon · Cabernet Sauvignon · Napa Valley 2023

Oberon draws fruit from across Napa Valley, including Oakville, Oak Knoll and Yountville, to bring different expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon into one bottle. The winemaker’s account describes a blend of fruit from volcanic and valley-floor soils for a rich, seamless texture.

Expect a generous Napa Cabernet for a ribeye dinner or roasted mushrooms. Bart Hopkins of 67Wine finds dark berries, cherry, mocha and spice, with silky tannins that make this an easy bottle to bring to the table.

Expert reviews on this listing - Vintage 2023

James Suckling · 93 points

Aromas of red and black currants, bitter chocolate, licorice, spices and earth. The palate is full-bodied with fine tannins, a rounded mouthfeel and a balanced finish. Nicely constructed.

Wine Enthusiast · 92 points

Lush aromas of mixed currants and plums layered with spiced cocoa and espresso grounds linger into rich flavors of ripe, black fruits with crushed cacao nib. Full bodied with generosity and powdery-fine, palate-coating tannins, this is a hearty wine built for satisfaction.

67Wine buyer’s note

Blended with small amounts of Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, Oberon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is darkly colored with aromas and flavors of lush blackberries, black cherries, mocha, dark chocolate, and baking spices. Silky sweet tannins lead to a long and delicious finish.

— Bart Hopkins, 67Wine

Wine details

• Producer: Oberon (Michael Mondavi Family)
• Winemaker listed: Tony Coltrin
• Vintage: 2023
• Region: Napa Valley, California
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah and Petite Sirah according to the buyer’s note
• Size: 750ml
• Pair with: ribeye, lamb chops, roasted mushrooms or aged hard cheeses

A richly fruited Napa Cabernet built for a satisfying dinner.

M. Chapoutier · Côtes-du-Rhône Belleruche · 2024

Michel Chapoutier approaches winemaking as a farmer’s work, seeking to reveal the character of soil, climate, and place rather than impose a technical style. Belleruche is a vivid expression of that Rhône philosophy, offering generous fruit, savory detail, and an inviting sense of freshness.

The 2024 opens with peppery red and black fruits, garrigue, spice, and subtle leather. Blackcurrant and raspberry carry onto a juicy, lively palate, joined by white pepper and gentle roasted notes. Medium-bodied and well balanced, it finishes with silky, delicate tannins.

Jeb Dunnuck: 89 points
“Peppery red and black fruits, garrigue, spice, and subtle leather nuances all define the aromatics of the 2024 Côtes Du Rhône Belleruche. Based on 55% Grenache, 40% Syrah, and 5% Marselan, it's medium-bodied with a juicy, lively mouthfeel, solid overall balance, and a good finish.”

• Producer: M. Chapoutier
• Blend: 55% Grenache, 40% Syrah, 5% Marselan
• Appellation: Côtes-du-Rhône
• Region: Rhône Valley, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Tasting notes: Blackcurrant, raspberry, red and black fruits, white pepper, garrigue, spice, leather, and roasted notes
• Pair with: Grilled sausages, roast chicken, lamb, burgers, ratatouille, or Mediterranean dishes
• Size: 750ml

A juicy, peppery Rhône red with garrigue character, silky tannins, and easy weeknight appeal.

Domaine Stéphane Ogier Le Temps Est Venu Côtes du Rhône 2024

From the celebrated Ogier family of Ampuis, Le Temps Est Venu is a polished, expressive Côtes du Rhône with the generous fruit and savory spice that make the southern Rhône so compelling. The nose opens with ripe cherry and warm spice, followed by a medium-bodied palate shaped by lively acidity and silky tannins.

Made from 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah, this is a bright, beautifully balanced red that brings Rhône character to the table without feeling heavy. Enjoy it with roast chicken, grilled lamb, sausages, ratatouille, or a board of aged cheeses.

About Domaine Stéphane Ogier

The Ogier family has been rooted in Ampuis for seven generations. Stéphane joined the family domaine in 1997 after completing his oenological studies in Beaune, carrying forward a deep commitment to the vineyards of the northern Rhône while crafting wines such as Le Temps Est Venu from the wider Côtes du Rhône appellation.

• Varietals: 50% Grenache, 50% Syrah
• Appellation: Côtes-du-Rhône
• Region: Rhône Valley, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Size: 750ml

A silky, spicy Rhône red with ripe cherry fruit, lively freshness, and easy food-pairing appeal.

Educated Guess Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2023

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon at this price is a rare find — and Educated Guess makes a compelling case that you don’t have to spend a fortune to drink well from one of the world’s greatest wine regions. The 2023 vintage is bright, structured, and built for the table.

The nose is spiced and cedary, with dark cherry, ripe plum, hints of cigar box, and a whisper of wet earth. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and chewy with a lightly austere, bitter-spice character balanced by juicy, fruit-forward depth. Petite Sirah contributes beautiful color and spice, while splashes of Petit Verdot and Malbec round out the mouthwatering finish.

“Full-bodied and chewy with juicy fruit underneath.” — James Suckling, 90 Points

• Producer: Educated Guess, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Malbec
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, plum, cedar, cigar box, wet earth, bitter spice
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, lamb chops, aged cheddar, braised short ribs

A crowd-pleasing Napa Cab with genuine structure and complexity — an educated choice for any occasion.

Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo — Abruzzo, Italy 2024

The Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is the house Italian red we reach for without hesitation — and the 2024 vintage is its brightest, most energetic expression yet. A proprietary label crafted exclusively for David Bowler Wine, Cora sources fruit from established vineyards in the Abruzzo region, where the rugged Apennine foothills and Adriatic breezes produce Montepulciano of exceptional freshness and drinkability. Fresh, fun, and uncomplicated by design — but built to satisfy exacting standards. At $10.99, it is one of the most compelling everyday values in Italian red wine.

The nose is lively and inviting: brambly cranberry, strawberry blossoms, red apple skin, and rose petals, accented with spicy notes of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon stick. On the palate, it is crisp and juicy — good acidity keeping it lively and agile, with moderate tannins that drive it energetically into a clean, refreshing finish. A lighter, brighter, snappier rendition of Montepulciano that is as easy at the table as it is on its own.

“Brambly aromas of cranberry, strawberry blossoms, red apple skin and rose petals… Crisp and juicy in the mouth with good acidity keeping it lively and agile. A great wine for pizza and pasta, and just about anything else.” — Bart Hopkins, 67Wine

• Producer: Cora, a proprietary label for David Bowler Wine, Abruzzo, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC
• Varietal: 100% Montepulciano
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, strawberry blossom, red apple, rose petal, nutmeg, cloves, crisp acidity, lively finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now — best enjoyed young and fresh
• Best Paired With: Pizza, pasta, grilled sausages, arancini, casual weeknight dinners, antipasto boards

Bright, juicy, and built for the table — the Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is the benchmark for what everyday Italian red can be at this price.

67 Wine Somm Series DOCa Rioja Tempranillo 2021 — Rioja Alavesa, Spain

The 67 Wine Somm Series is curated by Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67 Wine’s in-house sommelier and Spain specialist. Each selection is Oscar’s personal search for wines that over-deliver on quality relative to price — bottles he would pour at his own table. This Rioja Tempranillo is a direct expression of that philosophy: a classic, food-friendly red from one of Spain’s most celebrated appellations at an everyday price.

Sourced from Rioja Alavesa — the northernmost and most elevated sub-zone of the DOCa Rioja, situated in the Basque Country — this 100% Tempranillo benefits from limestone-clay soils and a cooler, Atlantic-influenced climate that produces wines with brighter acidity, more aromatic lift, and greater elegance than those from the warmer Rioja Alta and Rioja Baja. Widely regarded as Rioja’s most terroir-expressive zone.

The 2021 delivers exactly what great everyday Rioja should: red berries, plums, and vanilla on the nose, a medium-bodied palate with good consistency and structure, and a very pleasant, clean finish.

Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67 Wine Sommelier — “Red berries, plums, and vanilla. Medium-bodied with good consistency on the palate. Very pleasant finish.”

• Curated by: Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67 Wine Sommelier & Spain Buyer
• Producer: 67 Wine Somm Series
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: DOCa Rioja (Rioja Alavesa)
• Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red berries, plum, vanilla, medium-bodied, clean finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled chorizo, patatas bravas, aged Manchego, Spanish tapas

Classic Rioja Alavesa at an honest price — Oscar’s pick for the table, every night of the week.

Maison Barelle · Côtes du Rhône · 2023

From France’s Rhône Valley, Maison Barelle’s 2023 Côtes du Rhône is a generous, fruit-forward red with the easy charm of a bottle made for the table. Pour a glass while supper comes together and let its cherry and raspberry notes set the tone.

Medium to full-bodied and mouth-filling, the wine brings ripe red fruit together with a sweet touch of licorice. Its approachable Rhône character makes it a comfortable companion to charcuterie, grilled meats or aged cheese.

Winemaker Description

Cherry mixed with raspberries put together in a medium to full-bodied well made Cotes-du-Rhone. A sweet touch of licorice enhance the beautiful palate. A mouth-filling wine in a pure Rhône style.

Wine Details

• Producer: Maison Barelle
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Côtes du Rhône, Rhône Valley, France
• Style: Red wine
• Primary varietal: Grenache
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting notes: Cherry, raspberry and licorice
• Pairings: Charcuterie, grilled meats and aged cheese

A relaxed Rhône red to open with dinner, and an easy bottle to share.

Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva — Sardinia, Italy 2021

Sella & Mosca is Sardinia's most storied and important winery, founded in 1899 near Alghero in the northwest of the island. With over 500 hectares under vine, it is one of Europe's largest single-estate wineries — and its Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva is the benchmark expression of the island's most celebrated indigenous red grape. Cannonau — known on the mainland and in France as Grenache — has been grown in Sardinia for centuries and thrives in the island's sun-drenched, wind-swept terrain. The Riserva designation requires extended aging, adding structure and complexity to the grape's naturally generous fruit character.

The 2021 pours a ruby red with garnet hues, translucent and brilliant. The nose is bright and refined — fresh violet, red berries, plum, blackcurrant, sun-dried tomatoes, and oriental spices with a savory, lightly smoky character. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, solid, and well-structured, with fine tannins, fresh bursts of balsam and medicinal herbs, and a long finish that moves through toasted hints before returning to the spice route. Warm, balanced, and unmistakably Sardinian.

"Red berries, herbs, smoke and sun-dried tomatoes on the nose. Lightly peppery and spicy on the palate, medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a tasty finish." — James Suckling, 92 Points

• Producer: Sella & Mosca, Alghero, Sardinia, Italy
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Cannonau di Sardegna DOC Riserva
• Varietal: Cannonau (Grenache)
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: James Suckling 92
• Tasting Notes: Red berries, violet, plum, sun-dried tomatoes, oriental spices, balsam, fine tannins
• Best Paired With: Roasted lamb, grilled meats, wild boar ragù, aged Pecorino Sardo, hearty pasta dishes

A 92-point Sardinian Riserva from the island's most iconic estate — Cannonau at its most expressive, structured, and authentically Mediterranean.

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins, 67Wine
Made from organically grown grapes and vegan friendly, this dark, juicy, easy-drinking Nero d’Avola is uncomplicated, packed with flavor, and irresistibly delicious. Plump and round in the mouth with blackberry, plum, and raspberry fruit at its core, with silky tannins and a velvety rich texture. An affordable indulgence for any meal — an ideal partner to pasta in tomato sauce and hearty pizza.

Winemaker Description

Deep purple-red color. The nose reveals intense fruity notes of blackberry and blueberry compote, together with smoky and spicy notes. On the palate it is extraordinarily round and complete, with a natural and effortless balance of tannin and acidity, structure and length.

Sustainability

Purato’s environmental commitment extends into the winery. Purato uses eco-friendly packaging made from recycled paper, pure vegetable ink on the labels, and 85% recycled glass for the bottle.

Product Details

• Producer: Purato
• Region: Sicilia DOC, Sicily, Italy
• Grape: Nero d’Avola
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Dietary: Vegan friendly
• Closure: Screw cap
• Vintage: 2025
• Style: Medium-bodied, juicy, easy-drinking Sicilian red
• Format: 750ml

Enjoy Balta Pairs: Mas Petit Organic 2021

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

James Suckling writes 91 Points |  A well-balanced and flavorful blend of garnatxa and cabernet. Dark cherries, plums and earth aromas mingle on the nose and follow through to a medium body with creamy tannins. Vibrant with a fruity and chocolaty finish. From organically grown grapes. Vegan. Drink now.

Winemaker Description 

Rhone meets Bordeaux in Penedes. The Cab here provides the body and power, Grenache for the florality and freshness. A cold maceration and fermentation in stainless before finishing in oak. Rich, velvety, dark berry, vanilla, baking spice, and a touch of licorice lead the way. Very generous fruit, big body, framed nicely in oak without it taking a front seat. This is the big red that will appeal to many.

Memo Summary Notes

The Parés Baltà Mas Petit 2021 is a characterful, eco-conscious red blend from the Penedès region of Catalonia, Spain. Produced by a family estate that has been organic since 1790, this wine is a "Crianza" style that balances Mediterranean warmth with soft oak influence.

Its soft tannins and high fruit profile make it incredibly versatile for informal dining:

• Barbecue: Grilled sausages, burgers, or marinated flank steak.

• Tapas: Cured meats (Jamon Ibérico), Chorizo, or paté.

• Vegetarian: Roasted Mediterranean vegetables or Portobello mushroom steaks.

• Cheese: Mild semi-hard cheeses like Manchego or Gouda.

Unveiling the Essence of Balta Pairs

Balta Pairs Mas Petit Organic 2021 presents an intriguing blend of flavors that showcases the richness of organic farming. This wine, made from carefully selected grapes, embodies the spirit of the Penedes region. Its vibrant notes and delicate tannins invite you to explore its complex profile. The organic nature of this wine not only reflects a commitment to sustainable practices but also enhances the overall tasting experience. Enjoying this bottle means embracing a unique wine journey, enriched by its organic heritage.

A Perfect Pairing for Every Occasion

This exquisite organic wine is versatile, making it a fantastic choice for various culinary experiences. Whether you're enjoying grilled vegetables, a flavorful cheese platter, or a hearty roast, Balta Pairs Mas Petit 2021 harmonizes beautifully with your meals. The balanced acidity and fruity notes ensure that it complements rather than overwhelms the palate. Because of its adaptability, this wine is ideal for casual gatherings, celebratory dinners, or simply unwinding after a long day.

Why Choose Organic?

Choosing Balta Pairs means choosing a product crafted with care and respect for nature. Organic wines like Mas Petit are produced without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, allowing the natural terroir to shine through. This dedication to organic farming not only benefits the environment but also results in healthier wine options. As you sip on this delightful 750ml bottle, you can feel good about supporting sustainable choices while enjoying a deliciously crafted organic wine. Explore the wonders of nature with every sip of Balta Pairs!

Melville Winery · Sta. Rita Hills · 2023

Melville’s Estate Pinot Noir captures the cool-climate character of Sta. Rita Hills in Santa Barbara County, balancing ripe California fruit with savory detail, freshness, and structure. It is a polished, medium-bodied Pinot Noir with the focus and versatility to work at the table or in the cellar.

Redcurrant, framboise, strawberry, and raspberry coulis meet peppery herbs, pine, floral notes, dark fruit, and citrus peel. Fermented with 40% whole cluster and aged in neutral wood, the wine carries integrated acidity, silky texture, and ripe, polished tannins through a sleek finish.

Expert Reviews — 2023 Vintage

Jeb Dunnuck: 93 points
“A terrific base appellation release, with redcurrants, framboise, peppery herbs, and floral nuances on the nose. Medium-bodied, pure, supple, and well-structured on the palate, with integrated acidity and ripe, polished tannins. Fermented with 40% whole cluster and aged in neutral wood, it’s beautifully done and worth a case purchase.”

Wine Advocate: 92+ points
“Tasted just three weeks after bottling, the 2023 Pinot Noir Estate is already showing beautifully. The nose presents powerful dark fruit and citrus peel aromas with spry energy, mirrored on the silky, refined palate. It finishes with a lovely balance between saturated fruits and a powdery, subtly drying structure.”

Wine Spectator: 90 points
“Brisk and fresh, with pine and savory notes peeking out from a core of strawberry and raspberry coulis. The finish is light-bodied but sleek. Drink now through 2027.”

• Producer: Melville Winery
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills AVA
• Region: Santa Barbara County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Winemaking: 40% whole cluster; aged in neutral wood
• Style: Medium-bodied, cool-climate California Pinot Noir
• Tasting notes: Redcurrant, framboise, strawberry, raspberry, peppery herbs, pine, florals, and citrus peel
• Pair with: Mushroom risotto, grilled pork chops, roasted duck, salmon, tuna poke, or earthy vegetable dishes
• Drinking window: Now through 2027+
• Size: 750ml

A precise, cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir with 93-point pedigree, savory freshness, and polished structure.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | Seamless and supple with vanilla, dark cherry, and a twist of earthy forest. Sourced from several vineyards in San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Long-lasting, fresh, and approachable with full-bodied weight and breadth supported by supple tannins and spiced oak.

Winemaker Notes

Beautifully lush and supple, this Pinot Noir draws you in with inviting aromas of raspberry, dark cherry, dried sage, and sweet tobacco leaf. Soft, supple tannins frame alluring layers of wild strawberry and Bing cherry, with hints of cracked black pepper and spice on a long, satisfying finish.

About Calera

Calera is one of California’s most storied Pinot Noir producers, founded by Josh Jensen in the 1970s after studying under Burgundy legends. Jensen was among the first to champion limestone soils in California for Pinot Noir — the estate’s name means "lime kiln" in Spanish. This Central Coast bottling blends fruit from across the region to deliver Calera’s signature elegance at an accessible price point.

Tasting & Pairings

Dark cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, dried sage, sweet tobacco, black pepper, and spiced oak. Full-bodied yet supple with soft tannins and a long finish.

• Roasted duck or quail — the dark fruit and sage notes are a natural match for game birds.
• Grilled salmon with herbs — California Pinot and Pacific salmon, always a winner.
• Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta — the earthy forest character complements umami-rich dishes.

La Spinetta Barbera d’Asti Superiore Ca’ di Pian Organic — Piedmont 2023

La Spinetta is one of Piedmont’s most celebrated estates, founded by Giorgio Rivetti in Castagnole delle Lanze. Rivetti is widely credited with modernizing Barbera d’Asti — bringing precision viticulture, organic farming, and meticulous cellar work to a variety long underestimated in the region. Ca’ di Pian, sourced from Castagnole delle Lanze and Costigliole d’Asti, is La Spinetta’s entry-level Barbera — yet it consistently punches well above its price, earning critical acclaim vintage after vintage. The estate farms entirely without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, expressing the purest possible fruit from its Piedmontese terroir.

The 2023 is soft, supple, and immediately captivating. A burst of blueberry, black cherry, morello cherry, spice, lavender, menthol, and chocolate gives the wine tremendous appeal and versatility. Fresh, fruit-forward, and beautifully balanced — an especially fine edition of this beloved cuvée.

“A terrific value… tons of immediacy and sheer appeal.” — Vinous, 90 Points

• Producer: La Spinetta, Castagnole delle Lanze, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOC
• Vineyard: Ca’ di Pian (Castagnole delle Lanze & Costigliole d’Asti)
• Varietal: 100% Barbera
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blueberry, black cherry, morello cherry, spice, lavender, menthol, chocolate
• Best Paired With: Cured meats, soft cheeses, Piedmontese agnolotti, roast veal, grilled meats, mushroom dishes

Giorgio Rivetti’s benchmark Barbera — organic, expressive, and one of Piedmont’s great values under $30.

Apothic Red Winemaker’s Blend — California 2023

Apothic Red is one of California's most recognizable and best-selling red blends — a wine built for immediate pleasure, with a rich, layered style that has earned it a devoted following since its debut. The 2023 Winemaker's Blend is crafted from a multi-varietal California blend — Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon — aged on multiple types of oak to build complexity and draw out notes of vanilla, mocha, and toffee. The result is a full-bodied, velvety red that overdelivers at its price point and works equally well on a weeknight or at a dinner party.

The nose is intense and inviting: rhubarb, black cherry, dark plum, mocha, and chocolate, with warm accents of brown spice and vanilla from the oak aging. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and plush with a velvety mouthfeel, rich dark fruit, and a smooth, lingering finish. It is approachable, crowd-pleasing, and deeply satisfying — the kind of red blend that disappears fast.

“Apothic Red reveals intense fruit aromas and flavors of rhubarb and black cherry, complemented by hints of mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The plush, velvety mouthfeel and smooth finish round out this intriguing, full-bodied red blend.” — Winemaker’s Notes

• Producer: Apothic Wines, Modesto, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Red Blend — Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: Multi-oak aging for vanilla, mocha & toffee complexity
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Rhubarb, black cherry, dark plum, mocha, chocolate, brown spice, vanilla, velvety finish
• Best Paired With: BBQ ribs, grilled burgers, pasta bolognese, aged cheddar, dark chocolate

California’s most beloved red blend at an honest price — Apothic Red is the benchmark for what approachable, oak-aged, multi-varietal California red can deliver.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

James Suckling 95 Points | A youthful wine full of fruit, showing intense fresh roses, black cherries and plums. The generous nose is supported by a lush, supple palate with medium body. Velvety tannins with a chalkier finish and refreshing length. 

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Full of savory, umami flavors, this red evokes earth, leather, sweet spice, cherry, plum and Szechuan peppercorn notes. Firm and dry, with broad tannins and a lingering kernel of cherry. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2027 through 2040. 

Winemaker Description - Vintage 2022 

Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva 2022 is intensely ruby red in color. Impressive on the nose with intense notes of black cherries, delicate floral hints of violets and rose petals that lead over to notes of vanilla and cocoa powder. Entry on the palate is mouth filling and lively then unfolds with great balance revealing supple vibrant tannins that accompany and sustain a long, sapid and persistent finish.

Monte Antico Rosso — Toscana IGT 2021 750ml

Monte Antico is one of Tuscany's most reliably excellent values — a benchmark Toscana IGT that has built a devoted following among sommeliers and everyday wine lovers alike. Blended from Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot grown across the rolling hills of the Maremma, it is vinified to express the warmth and generosity of the Tuscan sun without sacrificing structure or elegance. The 2021 vintage delivers everything that has made Monte Antico a perennial go-to: dark fruit, earthy complexity, and a round, food-friendly palate at an honest price.

Deep ruby in color. The nose offers leather, earth, dried herbs, black cherry, licorice, and ripe plum. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with round tannins, a spice-laced mid-palate, and a dry, persistent finish with attractive tension and mineral lift. Elegant, versatile, and built for the table.

James Suckling 91 — "Notes of dark cherries, blackberries, cedar, crushed stones and iodine. Tight and layered, medium body, dry spice-laced finish with persistent tension." (Prior Vintage 2020). 

• Producer: Monte Antico, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
• Style: Medium-Full Bodied Red
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, leather, earth, herbs, licorice, plum, cedar, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Ragù, grilled sausages, pork chops, mushroom pasta, pizza with robust toppings

A 91-point Tuscan red at an everyday price — Monte Antico is the bottle you reach for when you want Tuscany without the fuss.