Red Wine

Expert Reviews

Winemaker Description

Sea Sun Pinot Noir has aromas of cherry, light toasted wood, dry earth, clove and a hint of s'mores. The flavors echo the cherry on the nose, with raspberry on the finish. Bright and fruit-driven, with lush cherries and a strikingly soft texture. 

One of Italy's most celebrated and collectible wines, Masseto 2020 is a monument to Merlot — a single-vineyard icon from the Bolgheri coast of Tuscany that stands alongside the greatest wines in the world. Produced by Tenuta dell'Ornellaia from the legendary Masseto vineyard on the Maremma hillside, the 2020 vintage has earned near-perfect scores across every major critic, cementing its place as one of the finest Massetos ever made.

The Masseto Estate

The Masseto vineyard sits on a unique outcrop of blue-grey Pliocene clay soils in Bolgheri, Tuscany — a terroir of extraordinary character that produces Merlot of unparalleled depth and complexity. Since its first vintage in 1986, Masseto has become one of Italy's most sought-after wines, now operating as an independent estate. The 2020 vintage marks a new chapter with winemaker Gaia Cinnirella and the introduction of a small percentage of Cabernet Franc, adding a new dimension of aromatic complexity to this iconic wine.

Critical Acclaim — 2020 Vintage

100 Points — Decanter: "Nuanced and complex, still packing a punch in terms of power, but this feels sophisticated, suave, purposeful and controlled. A truly delicious wine with so much purity and sense of place."

99 Points — Wine Enthusiast: "A hedge maze of aromas greets the nose, from blackberries and black cherries to crushed stones and crumpled petals. Tannins are tightly stitched together across the palate like a tapestry. A wine that speaks volumes without shouting."

99 Points — James Suckling: "Full-bodied with superb concentration and fine, velvety tannins that run the length of the wine. It's big but agile and gorgeous. Merlot. What a wine! Best after 2030."

99 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "Incredibly expressive, with a sweet perfume of candied plum, boysenberry, crushed flowers, mocha, sweet earth, and fresh sage. Great finesse and polish that features opulence without having weight."

98 Points — Vinous: "Superb. Bright and vibrant, exceptionally polished and sophisticated. In 2020, Masseto is more finesse than power."

97 Points — Wine Spectator: "Complex, with a luscious texture. Offers a lively, well-integrated structure with a long aftertaste of fruit and spices. Best from 2025 through 2043."

96 Points — Wine Advocate: "A vintage of enormous richness and density. This wine is always hard to analyze in its youth. It needs many more years to soften and flesh out. Give it time."

Tasting Profile

Intense and full on the nose — ripe black fruit, crushed flowers, mocha, graphite, and soft spicing. On the palate it's rich and muscular yet tight and coiled, with velvety tannins of extraordinary finesse, vibrant acidity, and a long, sustained finish of dark fruit, leather, and mineral earth. A caged animal with its full potential yet to be unveiled.

Details

2020 | Merlot, Cabernet Franc | Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy | Toscana IGT | 750ml

Ageing

24 months in 100% new barriques, 12 months in bottle

Cellaring & Serving

Best from 2028–2043. Decant for a minimum of 2–3 hours if opening now. Serve at 61–64°F in a large Bordeaux glass. A wine built for the cellar — patience will be richly rewarded.

Winemaker Description

Israel. 100% Petite Verdot Produced from grapes grown on old vines in the Carmel region. After fermentation and soaking on the skins, the wine aged in French oak barrels for 15 months.

The wine has a deep purple hue and aromas of blackberries, blueberries, licorice and leather. It is full bodied and has a long and well-balanced finish. Pair with lamb based casseroles, and pasta dishes with a mushroom or meat broth base.

Kosher for Passover.

Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto — Rioja, Spain 2023

Bodegas Gomez Cruzado is one of Rioja's most exciting modern producers — a historic estate in Haro, the heart of Rioja Alta, that has undergone a remarkable transformation under the direction of winemaker Amanda Klemp, who has brought a precision-focused, terroir-driven approach to the cellar while honoring the estate's deep roots in the region. El Predilecto — "The Favorite" — is a total departure from the Rioja norm: a blend of old vine Garnacha and Tempranillo sourced from two distinct mountain landscapes, united in concrete and crafted to express the full complexity of Rioja's diverse terroir. The Garnacha (65%) comes from Alto Najerilla, in the triangle formed by the towns of Badarán, Cordovín, and Cárdenas in the Sierra Demanda mountains. The Tempranillo (35%) comes from the highest area of Samaniego, near the Sierra Cantabria mountains. Old vines at the foot of both mountain ranges provide greater fruit character and concentration. Fermented separately with native yeast, 100% destemmed without crushing, cold fermented with short maceration, then blended and refined in concrete for approximately five months — a winemaking approach that preserves freshness, precision, and the distinct personality of each site.

The nose bridges two landscapes: red and black fruit intertwine, with cherry and blackberry layered with licorice, a faint balsamic nuance, and an intensity of spice. On the palate, it is juicy and poised — generous, full-bodied warmth with tannins sitting between chalky and plush, freshness carrying the wine forward through a lengthy, supple finish. Precise, modern Rioja that shows two mountain landscapes in one gesture. Age 12–15 years.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 — "A total departure from the norm — intensity of spice and a generous mouthfeel of full-bodied warmth while remaining elegant through the lengthy, supple finish. Age 12-15 years."

Vinous 93 — "Bridges two origins. Cherry and blackberry layered with licorice and a faint balsamic nuance. Juicy and poised — a precise, modern Rioja that shows two landscapes in one gesture."

• Producer: Bodegas Gomez Cruzado, Haro, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Blend: 65% Garnacha (Alto Najerilla, Sierra Demanda) / 35% Tempranillo (Samaniego, Sierra Cantabria)
• Vines: Old vines at the foot of two mountain ranges
• Winemaking: Native yeast, 100% destemmed, cold fermentation, short maceration, 5 months in concrete
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cherry, blackberry, licorice, balsamic, spice, chalky-plush tannins, long supple finish
• Style: Full-bodied, precise, modern Rioja
• Drink: Now–2038 (best 2028+)
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, braised short rib, aged Manchego, wild mushroom dishes

Two mountain landscapes, one extraordinary wine — Gomez Cruzado El Predilecto 2023 is modern Rioja at its most compelling.

Winemaker Description 

An elegant, fruit forward wine with intense aromas of fresh red fruit. The mouth feel shows a full palate with soft round tannins and a long persistent finish. Certified Sustainability & Vegan.  

Memo Summary Notes

The 2021 Mythic Mountain Malbec is a fruit-forward, approachable red from the Luján de Cuyo region of Mendoza, Argentina.

This wine’s soft tannins and juicy profile make it versatile. It pairs excellently with:

• Grilled Meats: Classic Argentine asado or lamb chops with rosemary.

• Casual Fare: Pepperoni pizza or burgers.

• Cheeses: Aged Gouda or Mimolette.

  
  

   

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | The 2020 Tierra Alta A 2 Maderas was the producer’s old Crianza, but they are not using that anymore designation, and this youngest is its vintage in the market. With 15 months in French and American oak, it’s powerful and complex in dense black cherry, black licorice, and firm tannins, medium-bodied in style, with 10-15 years more to go. The texture is slate nearly, granitic, seasoned in dried herb.

Winemaker Description

Tierra Alta 2 Maderas de Bodegas Valduero is a serious Spanish red, made by one of the most recognized houses in Ribera del Duero. It stands out for a concentrated and elegant style, where the use of two types of wood seeks aromatic complexity and structure, respecting the fruity profile of the grape and the marked continental character of the area.

Color: Intense pecota red with high and bright layer violet trim, which reflects the typical concentration of the continental climate reds of the Castilian plateau. The tear is dense and leisurely, according to the structured style that characterizes Valduero and its aging wines in different types of wood.

Nose: Aromas of ripe black fruit, such as plums and blackberries, are combined with spicy notes and memories of cocoa and vanilla from the passage through two types of barrels. Balsamic nuances and a slightly torrefied background also arise, in the line of the reds of the Ribera del Duero made with a vocation of complexity and storage.

Mouth: Wide and enveloping entrance, with firm but polished tannins and an acidity that supports the whole well, reflecting the extreme climate of the region. The work in two woods brings volume, creamy touches and a long finish with memories of ripe fruit, sweet spices and a subtle smoked touch, very in keeping with the powerful and elegant style of Valduero.

Valduero has a clear purpose: to elaborate Reservas and Gran Reservas. Valduero 2 Maderas ages for three years. Intense, lively garnet with a high colored. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Valduero Tierra Alta en 2 Maderas 2020 is a powerhouse Tempranillo from one of Ribera del Duero's most respected family-owned estates. Formerly labeled simply as "Valduero Crianza," this wine is part of their "Tierra Alta" (Highlands) collection, sourced from vineyards at altitudes exceeding 800 meters.

Winemaker Description

Considered the pinnacle of Burgundy, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti produces some of the world’s most revered wines from its tiny vineyards in Vosne-Romanee. Grands-Echezeaux, is a Grand Cru vineyard yielding sublime wines that are among the most highly-sought, seductive and rarest in the world.

The 2020 Grands Échézeaux is full-bodied, ample and fleshy with an abundance of powdery tannins and succulent acids. The luscious palate presents strawberry, cherry, leather, earth, mushroom, mint, a touch of spice, oak, and refreshing minerality.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Enthusiast by Tonya Pitts 91 Points | This wine is bright and lively, with aromas of dark berries, malted chocolate, crushed florals and notes of toasted vanilla. Structured with gripping tannins the palate opens with flavors of cranberry-strawberry, black raspberry and dried bay leaf, which evolve into red plum and citrus zest.

Winemaker Description 

The 2022 Matchbook Cabernet Sauvignon is a refined yet approachable expression of the Dunnigan Hills AVA, crafted to showcase ripe, sun-soaked fruit and the region’s signature balance.

Deep dark garnet in the glass, it opens with inviting aromas of plum and black cherry layered with subtle notes of mocha, chocolate and mild cigar box. The palate is soft, supple and immediately welcoming, offering rich flavors of blackberry and boysenberry supported by dusty tannins and well-integrated oak that adds both structure and length.

Hints of anise and warm spice elevate the finish, giving the wine lift and nuance.

Awarded 91 points by Wine Enthusiast, this Cabernet maintains varietal integrity while delivering broad appeal—an easy-drinking, food-friendly red that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty pastas or aged cheeses.

Memo Summary Notes

Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Petit  Sirah

The 2022 Matchbook "Red Gravel" Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout value from the Dunnigan Hills AVA in Yolo County, California. Named after the distinct iron-rich, gravelly soils of the estate, this wine is designed to compete with much pricier Napa Cabs by offering a similar "bold and plush" profile at a fraction of the cost.

Boekenhoutskloof · The Chocolate Block · Swartland · Western Cape, South Africa · 2024 · 750ml

Boekenhoutskloof is one of South Africa's most acclaimed estates, and The Chocolate Block is the wine that put Swartland on the world map. Created by winemaker Marc Kent, it is a Syrah-led blend — 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault, and 1% Viognier — sourced from old-vine parcels in the granite-rich soils of the Swartland. The name is no accident: this is a wine built for pleasure, with the kind of dark, brooding generosity that makes it impossible to put down. Over 1.1 million bottles are produced each vintage, yet the quality never wavers. At $37.99, The Chocolate Block remains one of the most compelling values in the New World red wine category.

Deep, inky ruby in the glass with an intense nose of blackberry, bramble, lavender, cacao, and a whisper of cured meat and potting soil — dark, brooding, and utterly compelling. On the palate: medium-to-full bodied with a lush compote of blueberries, ripe plums, black currants, and cherries, framed by cacao-powdery tannins that add texture and complexity. Cumin spice, white pepper, licorice, and hints of garrigue carry through to a velvety, persistent finish. James Suckling awarded 92 points; Wine Advocate 92 points. Drink now through 2030, or cellar for added complexity. Pair with grilled ribeye, lamb chops, braised short ribs, or a serious cheese board.

• Producer: Boekenhoutskloof · Winemaker Marc Kent
• Wine: The Chocolate Block · Swartland
• Vintage: 2024
• Origin: Swartland, Western Cape, South Africa
• Blend: 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault, 1% Viognier
• Style: Full-bodied, structured New World red
• Scores: James Suckling 92 · Wine Advocate 92
• Drinking Window: Now–2030
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, bramble, lavender, cacao, blueberry, ripe plum, black currant, cumin spice, white pepper, licorice, velvety finish
• Pair With: Grilled ribeye · Lamb chops · Braised short ribs · Aged cheese

Old-vine Swartland Syrah, cacao-powdery tannins — South Africa's most beloved red, vintage after vintage.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling — 92 Points
This creamy, medium-bodied red has aromas of dark cherries, blueberries, cracked pepper and thyme. It’s juicy and smoothly integrated with tasty savory undertones to the dark fruit.

Wine Advocate (Robert Parker) — 92 Points
The Boekenhoutskloof 2024 Swartland The Chocolate Block, a blend of 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault and 1% Viognier, may not aim for intellectual nuance, but it more than compensates with pure, comforting charm, like a big, shaggy dog asleep by the fireplace. Medium- to full-bodied, it delivers generous black fruit and bold cherry flavors with a smooth, reassuring texture, offering plenty of pleasure. Conceived by vintner Marc Kent as an accessible, crowd-pleasing expression of Swartland fruit, the wine reflects Boekenhoutskloof’s belief that serious craftsmanship and broad appeal need not be mutually exclusive. Production is substantial, with 3,741 barrels made, translating to just over 1.1 million bottles, making it an ideal choice for a long wooden table at a steakhouse surrounded by friends and shared plates.

Winemaker Description 

The Estate Pinot Noir is sourced from throughout Shea Vineyard, one of the most iconic vineyards in Oregon. Careful vineyard practices and restrained winemaking allow each vintage to reveal its uniqueness. The 2022 vintage finished warm and dry, allowing the fruit to achieve full ripeness and the Estate to reflect the big, concentrated style Shea Vineyard is known for.

"All Shea wines are 100% estate grown; most are single block/single clone selections. This blends grapes from the entire estate, offering a unique glimpse of the overall terroir. I’ve reviewed wines from this iconic vineyard for over two decades, and followed the estate wines almost since their first vintage. There is a special excellence that carries into Shea designates made by almost any winery. But in wines made by the estate itself there is a focus and specificity that is exceptional. Why this particular piece of land is so special is a question I’ve wondered about for years. The block and clone selections are all complete wines in and of themselves, but this estate blend captures the fullness of the whole site with black fruits, expressive oak (one third new), clean earth, barrel spice and exceptional depth." - 96 points, Paul Gregutt's Northwest Wine Guide

"This wine opens with an alluring bouquet of red and black cherries, Blood orange, walnut shells, and a hint of rosemary. The palate is supple and refined, with a medium body and a lively mouthfeel that keeps it moving and refreshing. As the wine unfolds, a subtle dried herb undertone emerges, adding an extra layer of complexity to the finish." - 94 points, International Wine Report

"Attractive nose with sour cherries, dried orange peel and dried herbs. So delicate and pure, with a medium body and zesty, tangy mouthfeel. It has a fresh, minty undertone at the end." - 93 points, jamessuckling.com

Far Niente · Cabernet Sauvignon · Napa Valley 2023

Far Niente’s 2023 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a Cabernet-led blend of 92.6% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7.4% Petit Verdot, according to the winemaker description.

The winemaker note layers black cherry, black currant, dark plum, rose petal, caramel and toasted oak, followed by blackberry, spiced cherry and cassis. Fine-grained tannins and juicy acidity bring lift, with bay leaf, cocoa and sweet oak across a long, supple finish.

Winemaker Description
The 2023 Far Niente Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon opens with vibrant aromas of black cherry, black currant, and dark plum, layered with notes of rose petal, caramel, and toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is coating and expansive, unfolding in waves of ripe blackberry, spiced cherry, and cassis. Fine-grained tannins and juicy acidity create balance and lift, while hints of bay leaf, cocoa, and sweet oak weave through the long, supple finish of juicy, spiced cherry. Blend: 92.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.4% Petit Verdot.

James Suckling · 96 Points · 2023
Deep, dark and spicy with aromas of black and red currants, graphite, potpourri, dried flowers, herbs and wet river stones. The palate is full-bodied, offering generous texture, fine-grained tannins and a long, mouthwatering finish. Great tension and purity matched by plenty of generosity.

Jeb Dunnuck · 95 Points · 2023
Rocking aromatics of ripe, sweet cassis, graphite, spring flowers, and hints of classy, spicy oak all emerge from the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon. It's medium to full-bodied, has a focused, elegant mouthfeel, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. This is an incredibly classy, satisfying, and classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that should keep for 15-20 years if well stored. Drink 2025-2045.

Wine Spectator · 94 Points · 2023
This is well-realized, with a solidly ripe core of boysenberry and blackberry pâte de fruit that’s dense yet expressive, while licorice snap, violet, cast iron and menthol notes run through. Solidly grippy, with the vintage’s succulence driving the finish. Best from 2027 through 2038.

Wine Enthusiast · 94 Points · 2023
Focused aromas of blackberry compote, plum skin, violets, and coffee drive the nose of this Cabernet. The palate delivers bright acidity balancing grippy tannic structure and flavors of baked black cherry, currant, cinnamon, tobacco, and flowers across the finish.

• Producer: Far Niente
• Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Blend: 92.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.4% Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml

Dark-fruited and finely structured, with Jeb Dunnuck suggesting a 2025–2045 drinking window.

Winemaker Description

A blend of 70% Monastrell and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged 24 months French & American oak. The wine exhibits a glass-coating opaque purple color.

The nose is expressive with pain grille, underbrush, brier, minerality, blueberry and blackberry fruit. On the palate is a plush, opulent wine with great density, savory flavors, and a lengthy finish.

Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta — Rioja Gran Reserva 2011

Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta has been crafting wines in Haro, the historic capital of Rioja Alta, since 1895. Their Gran Reserva is the pinnacle of the house — produced only in the finest vintages, when the fruit and conditions align to create something truly exceptional. The 2011 vintage is one such year: a classic Rioja growing season that delivered concentration, structure, and the natural balance required for long aging. A traditional blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo, it was aged for a minimum of 60 months — at least 18 in oak and the remainder in bottle — before release, in the time-honored Gran Reserva tradition.

Deep ruby with garnet edges, the nose is complex and evolved: dried cherry, leather, cedar, tobacco, and earthy minerality layered with notes of vanilla, dark spice, and a whisper of balsamic. On the palate, it is full-bodied and silky with fine, integrated tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, lingering finish of red fruit and warm spice. A wine of sublime delicacy and elegance — exactly as the winemaker intended.

"A classic combination of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo that takes us back to the origins of great Rioja wines. Produced only in the finest vintages, which allow us to bottle exceptional wines. The sublime fusion of delicacy and elegance. Time stands still, enabling us to continue savoring the future." — Martinez Lacuesta Winemaker

• Producer: Bodegas Martinez Lacuesta, Haro, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Founded: 1895
• Vintage: 2011
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Varietals: Tempranillo, Graciano & Mazuelo
• Classification: Gran Reserva
• Aging: Minimum 60 months (18+ months oak, remainder in bottle)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dried cherry, leather, cedar, tobacco, vanilla, dark spice, balsamic, silky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2035+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, aged Manchego, braised short ribs, wild mushroom dishes, charcuterie, grilled ribeye
• Serve: 62–66°F, decant 45–60 minutes

Produced only in the finest vintages — Martinez Lacuesta Gran Reserva 2011 is a rare opportunity to drink classic Rioja at the peak of its evolution.

Expert Reviews

98 Points Wine Enthusiast | This firmly structured wine with its high percentage of Merlot is powerful and dense. The bold black fruits and perfumed density are impressive.

97+ Points Jeb Dunnuck | A clear step up over the 2019, the 2020 Château Troplong Mondot is mostly Merlot yet includes 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc, all of which was raised in 65% new French oak, with the balance in once-used barrels. The level of purity and finesse here is remarkable, and it reveals a deep ruby/purple hue as well as incredible aromatics of cassis, ripe black cherries, graphite, gunpowder, and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has building, perfectly ripe tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. Certainly light years away from the riper, more opulent style of the 2000's, the wines today under consultant Thomas Duclos are much more about finesse and elegance. While I certainly miss the sexy, riper style of the past, there is no denying the incredible quality from this château today. 

97 Points Robert Parker | The 2020 Troplong Mondot is composed of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc, harvested from 4th September and lasting for about three weeks. The pH is 3.53, the IPT (tannin index) is 75 and the alcohol is 14.5%. Opaque purple-black colored, it opens with a vivacious burst of black fruits—stewed plums, baked blackberries and boysenberries—giving way to a fragrant undercurrent of licorice, ground cloves, cinnamon stick and lilacs, with a touch of bouquet garni. The full-bodied palate is chock-full of plump, juicy black fruits and savory sparks, framed by fantastically ripe, fine-grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and opulent. 

97 Points James Suckling | A soft and round red with plum and milk chocolate. Hazelnuts. Full-bodied and layered. Juicy. Hints of sea salt. Power is there. Turns firm and vivid. So attractive now. Savory. Needs three to four years to open.

93 Points Decanter | This sets out its stall as a wine from a specific plot of pure limestone soils straight away, and this is a second wine to savour. As with last year, this is a masterclass in the impact of this particular soil type, with a bright violet colour, juicy blueberry fruits and touches of redcurrant. It has a tingling finish with a whoosh of salinity that gives tension and balance. 30% aged in barrels, the rest stays in stainless steel. 3.53pH. Still 100% Merlot as last year, but that will probably change in 2021 when some Cabernet Franc should be added. Not sold as an En Primeur, the 2018 has just been released onto the market. September 4 was the first day of picking.

19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon — South Australia NV — 1.5L Magnum

19 Crimes takes its name from the 19 crimes that once earned British convicts a one-way ticket to Australia — and the brand celebrates the rebellious spirit of those who turned punishment into opportunity and built a new life in a new land. Today, 19 Crimes is one of Australia's most recognized wine labels, crafting bold, approachable reds that honor that defiant heritage. The Cabernet Sauvignon is their flagship expression: rich, fruit-forward, and built for sharing. In a generous 1.5L Magnum format, it is the bottle that commands the table.

Rich bright red to crimson in color. The nose is intense and inviting — lifted vanilla aromatics balanced with red currants, violets, and mulberry fruit. On the palate, the wine is firm and full with a subtle sweetness that gives a rich, plush mouthfeel. Vanilla carries through alongside red currants, dark cherries, and chocolate, while dark berry fruit fills the mid-palate. Soft tannins provide a lingering, satisfying finish.

Named for the 19 crimes that earned British convicts transportation to Australia — a wine that celebrates the rebellious spirit of those who turned exile into opportunity.

• Producer: 19 Crimes, South Australia
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: South Eastern Australia
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Red Wine — Full-Bodied, Rich & Approachable
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)
• Tasting Notes: Vanilla, red currant, violet, mulberry, dark cherry, chocolate, dark berry, soft tannins, lingering finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, BBQ ribs, lamb chops, aged cheddar, burgers, casual entertaining

Two bottles, one bold statement — 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon Magnum is the benchmark for crowd-pleasing Australian red wine built for the table.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Jeb Dunnuck 97 points From an estate that is delivering its greatest run of vintages since the superb Post War series that preceded the frosts of 1956, the 2022 Canon is a magical wine that will be worth every effort to track down. Wafting from the glass with aromas of dark berries, wild plums and cherries mingled with hints of bay leaf, spices and violets, it's full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, with huge levels of concentration, vibrant acids and beautifully refined tannins. Concluding with a long, saline finish, this pure, perfumed and ineffably complete Canon is built for the ages, even if its structural polish is such that it will be approachable at a surprisingly early age. 99 Points Wine Advocate, April 28, 2023

Winemaker Description 

Deep and attractive red color with a purple rim. Mountain wine with a powerful terroir expression. Intense red fruit, black currants, lavender, thyme, rosemary and scrubland notes. In the palate shows long, very fresh, wide and savory, with a gentle structure and attractive texture. 

Experience the Elegance of J Vineyards Pinot Noir

Discover the vibrant elegance of J Vineyards Pinot Noir from California's renowned Russian River Valley. This exceptional 2022 vintage captures the essence of cool-climate winemaking with its bright, expressive character.

Tasting Notes:

• Bright sliced strawberry and citrus aromas
• Energetic mineral undertones
• Medium-bodied with vivid focus
• Crisp, refreshing finish

Expert Acclaim:
James Suckling 92 Points - "An energetic pinot with bright sliced strawberry and citrus character. Some mineral. Medium body. Vivid and focused."

Perfect Pairings:
This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses. Its bright acidity and elegant structure make it ideal for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment.

About J Vineyards:
J Vineyards has been crafting premium wines in Sonoma County since 1986, specializing in cool-climate varietals that showcase the unique terroir of Russian River Valley.

Overview of J Vineyards Pinot Noir

The J Vineyards Pinot Noir from the 2022 vintage exemplifies the artistry and dedication that the winemakers at J Vineyards pour into every bottle. Sourced primarily from the Russian River Valley, this wine is known for its lush flavors and rich aroma profile. The cool climate of this region allows the grapes to ripen slowly, leading to a full-bodied wine that maintains the characteristic finesse of Pinot Noir. With its vibrant notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle hints of earthiness, this wine is perfect for both casual sipping and special occasions.

Tasting Notes and Pairing Suggestions

The tasting notes of J Vineyards Pinot Noir are as captivating as the beautiful bottle it comes in. On the palate, you will experience layers of ripe red fruits complemented by soft tannins and a lingering finish. The wine presents aromas of fresh strawberries and a whiff of roasted coffee beans, making it an aromatic delight. This Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes such as roast chicken, salmon, or a rich mushroom risotto. Additionally, it makes for an excellent companion with gourmet cheeses, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Why Choose J Vineyards Pinot Noir?

Choosing J Vineyards Pinot Noir means selecting a wine that embodies quality, tradition, and passion. The rigorous selective harvesting process ensures that only the best grapes make it into the bottle, corresponding to the vineyard's commitment to excellence. Moreover, J Vineyards has garnered accolades and awards, making it a trusted name among wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Whether you are celebrating a special milestone, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a night in, this Pinot Noir delivers an exceptional taste profile that will impress. Elevate your wine collection today with J Vineyards Pinot Noir!

About the Winemaker — Sandra Bravo

High up in the foothills of the Sierra de Toloño in Rioja Alavesa, Sandra Bravo works some of the oldest, highest-altitude vineyards in Rioja. Trained in engineering and enology, with harvests in Bordeaux, Tuscany, New Zealand, California, and seven years in Priorat, she returned to her native Rioja in 2012 with a singular vision: wines that respect the vineyard, prioritize freshness, and express the mineral soul of the mountain.

"I was in love with this area — calcareous soil, small plots, Mediterranean herbs, and always the North wind at high altitude. It was perfect. Because of all this, my wines are really mineral." — Sandra Bravo

Winemaker Notes

Intense color with purple reflections. Aromas of violets and Mediterranean herbs complement delicate notes of chocolate and toast from subtle aging. Elegant on the palate with fresh notes that combine with round, sweet tannins. In perfect balance with natural acidity — a pleasant and long-lasting finish.

Food Pairings

• Tapas & Charcuterie: Jamón Ibérico, chorizo al vino, Manchego
• Roasted Meats: Herb-crusted lamb chops or rosemary roast chicken
• Spanish Classics: Paella Mixta or skirt steak tacos

• Grape Source: 100% Tempranillo
• Appellation: Rioja Alavesa
• Location: Spain
• Viticulture: Organic, Biodynamic
• Winemaker: Sandra Bravo
• Vinification: Steel, anforas, and old wood

Winemaker Description 

Aroa is a small winery in the Deierri Valley, in Navarra, which has recently been part of the Vintae group. They are specialists in producing organic wines of the highest quality. 

Proof of this is its Aroa Jauna, a Crianza red that perfectly blends four different grape varieties to achieve an extraordinary palate. One of the best wines that have fallen into our hands for its value for money.

Winery Tasting Note: View: Deep, purple and blood tones, very clean, of great intensity and brightness. Nose: clean and crisp of ripe fruit, pear compote and sweet apple and quince. Advancing cocoa, dry leaves and bark, guessing some hides in the background. suggestive. Mouth: Tasty, agile, with well integrated tannins. 

The evolution is favourable, due to the perfect harmony between alcohol and acidity. The finish is well resolved, with a full sensation of freshness and meatiness. Modern, elegant and tempting wine.

Expert Reviews

Vinous Josh Raynolds 92+ Points | Dark purple. Complex, highly perfumed bouquet of red berries, cherry pit, incense and dried flowers. Spicy raspberry and cherry flavors show a refreshingly bitter quality and are given depth by a note of licorice. Packs a serious punch but there's a surprisingly lithe quality to this wine too. The finish clings with impressive tenacity and repeats the cherry and floral notes. I'd let this wine rest for at least another three years or so. By the way, the 2007 Calvario has put on weight in the last year but also possesses superb energy; I rated it 94 in August. - Vinous 92+

Wine Advocate Neal Martin writes 90 Points | The 2008 Calvario is a blend of 90% Tempranillo, 9% Garnacha and 2% Graciano aged for 18 months in new French Allier oak. The nose offers broody blackberry and briary at first, leisurely unwinding to reveal black olive and violet aromas, with the oak well-knitted into the fruit profile. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, sturdy tannins complemented by the fleshy black fruit laced with just a pinch of white pepper towards the much more elegant finish. It deserves a couple of years in bottle. (2008).

Decanter Sarah Jane Evans MW writes 93 Points |  A wine that smells of luxury and plenty of attention, showing the right balance between oak and fruit and a balancing acidity; expressive and charming, solidly built. Impressive, with tightly crafted tannins, and it should improve over time. Drinking 2019 -2023.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2018

About the Producer

The Ronchi di Cialla winery sits within its own valley like something out of a fairy tale — roads curving through rows of vines planted between outcroppings of forest, with the family home and cellar perched at the top of a hill overlooking vineyards in all directions. Ivan Rapuzzi runs the winery with his mother and brother, following the same traditional methods as their father before them.

The Rapuzzi family saved Schioppettino from extinction, building a library of wines spanning decades that proves just how magnificently this variety matures. Today, Schioppettino has its own subzone within Friuli Colli Orientali — Schioppettino di Prepotto — while Ronchi di Cialla enjoys its own unique terroir within the Cialla Valley.

• Producer: Ronchi di Cialla
• Appellation: Colli Orientali del Friuli, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
• Varietal: Schioppettino
• Vintage: 2018
• Format: 750ml
• Style: Full-bodied, floral, spiced red
• Tasting Notes: Rose petals, violets, blackberry, blood orange, white pepper
• Aging Potential: Excellent — cellar worthy
• Pairings: Braised meats, game, aged cheeses, mushroom dishes

Winemaker Description

This wine has dark savory fruit with notes of bay, thyme and leather. Firmer structured and chalky on the palate. In typical Bodegas Ponce fashion, La Casilla manages to express the inherent power and structure of Bobal and it's native Manchuela, but goes so with the sort of grace and style that re-calls Cru Beaujolais 

Winemaker Description

Deep garnet red with aromas of black currant, cherry pie filling, cedar, and milk chocolate. A rich and opulent wine offering flavors of dark fruit such as ripe plum, sweet black cherry, and boysenberry with hints of sage and thyme. This wine is bold and well-balanced with supple, refined tannins, and a long satisfying finish.

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

The Wine Enthusiast by Christina Pickard writes 92 Points | 2020 was a stellar vintage across New York State, despite the challenges of picking in a pandemic year. This charmingly demonstrates Long Island's prowess with Merlot. A fragrant fruit salad perfume of summer berries with subtle purple flower, vanilla and baking spice tucked beneath. It's supple, structured and harmonious, with firm, sappy tannins and a crunch of acidity.  

Winemaker Description

The Grapes of Roth is Winemaker Roman Roth's private label, and a true testament to his classic, yet adventerous, wine-making style. Wonderful dark cherry fruit with well integrated oak, classic graphite and great minerality is complimented by a very savory and elegant finish.

Dark red brick in color. Elegant aromas of cassis and fine toasted sandalwood fill the glass. The mouth-feel is rich and concentrated, yet balanced with wonderful fruit of plumbs, prunes and amazing minerality. The finish has layers of ripe tannins and nicely toasted oak with fine classic earthiness, leather and iodine notes. The fruit and alcohol provide great length and make this a very special Merlot that possesses great aging potential and is the perfect partner with food.

This is a wine to be aged. It has a huge maturation curve ahead and will gain many more nuances and facets. Serve just at room temperature. Pair this Merlot with dishes you might think of for big, bold wines: steak, cassoulet, duck and decadent dark chocolate desserts. 

Memo Summary Notes

The 2020 Wölffer Estate "The Grapes of Roth" Merlot is widely considered a benchmark for Long Island winemaking. It is the personal label of Wölffer’s longtime winemaker, Roman Roth, who uses it to showcase a more robust, "Right Bank" Bordeaux style that proves Merlot can be both powerful and sophisticated.

The 2020 vintage was particularly stellar for New York, recently earning the #100 spot on the Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Wines of 2025.

Mevushal. Made in a style that is full in berry flavors, soft in depth, lingering in its fruit filled acidity and superbly balanced. A wine made to get your taste buds into, rather than pose alongside. It is a measure of Goose Bay’s commitment to quality. - Winemaker Description.

Goose Bay Pinot Noir Kosher New Zealand 2021 is an elegant, cool-climate red that beautifully captures the vibrant character of New Zealand Pinot Noir.

Fragrant aromas of ripe cherry, wild strawberry and red plum rise from the glass, joined by subtle notes of dried herbs, gentle spice and forest floor. The palate is smooth and medium-bodied, with juicy red fruit, refreshing acidity and fine, supple tannins. Delicate earthy and savory nuances add complexity before a balanced, softly lingering finish.

The 2021 vintage is drinking beautifully now, offering enough freshness for the dinner table while remaining polished and approachable on its own. Serve slightly cool to highlight its bright fruit and silky texture.

Pairing: An excellent companion to roasted chicken, turkey, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, duck, herb-crusted lamb or gently seasoned beef. A versatile choice for Shabbat, holiday meals and everyday entertaining.

Varietal: Pinot Noir
Country: New Zealand
Vintage: 2021
Bottle Size: 750ml
Certification: Kosher

Elegant · Silky · Red-Fruited · Savory · Fresh

Winemaker Description

The soils are of marine origin from the Tertiary era, characterized by bluish marl (at a depth ranging from 1 to 3 meters), calcareous, compact structure. The stratification is dense and varied, rich in mineral salts and natural springs.

Barbaresco Rio Sordo receives careful grape selection in the vineyard – 100% Nebbiolo. The immediately noticeable characteristics are the considerable complexity and depth, accompanied by elegance and finesse.

Expert Review

Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94+ Monica Larner | A release of about 3,000 bottles, the 2018 Barbaresco Rio Sordo shows the finesse and delicate fruit that is so well expressed by this estate. The bouquet is redolent of rose hip and crushed flowers, and you get cassis, wild cherry and dried pomegranate as well. There is a giant layer of minty herb, and then the wine finally relaxes with polished tones of crushed stone and white licorice. Cascina delle Rose makes a fine bottle of Barbaresco. 

Expert Rating

Vinous Stephen Tanzer writes 93 Points | (from 63-year-old vines in the center of the vineyard; aged in a combination of old barriques and new larger casks) Sweet aromas of redcurrant, cherry, smoke and mint, all lifted by high notes of orange peel, rose petal and minerals. Concentrated, vibrant and gripping, with a silky quality and noteworthy precision to the flavors of red fruits, spices and minerals. Harmonious acidity gives a juicy, sappy quality and real elegance to this densely packed Barbaresco. Here the tannins are considerably finer than those of the normale, and the long, juicy, gripping finish leaves behind a captivating floral perfume. A beauty. 

This is from a massale selection, including a bit of the lighter, floral rose clone of nebbiolo while the rest of the vineyard features five different clones. 

Winemaker Description 

Red Schooner's new "Red Wine of the World," this red blend is sourced from famed regions of southern Australia, the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Consisting of Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro with a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon, Transit 2 is bold yet nuanced, featuring scents and flavors of dark fruit, black pepper, leather and vibrant raspberries. 

A hint of mint stems from the region's native trees. Just like our Red Schooner Malbec from Argentina is known by the "voyage" that produced it, this wine is called a sequential "transit."

Winemaker Description

We embraced the structure up front when making this wine because we wanted a strong phenolic profile to bind with and stabilize the tannin. Baking spices (clove and cinnamon) with a kiss of oak.

Ripe black fruit on the palate, black currant and blackberry. A hint of vanilla and smooth tannins on the plush finish.

Winemaker Description

Francesco Rinaldi’s estate was first founded back in 1870, when he inherited a plot of land and vineyard house in the heart of Barolo. Though Francesco’s family wasn’t new to the winemaking game-- his cousin, Giuseppe RInaldi, was also producing great Piemontese reds that were completely shaking up the scene. Today, F. Rinaldi wines are produced only from organic fruit and are some of the best deals coming out of the region’s top growing sites.

Expert Review - Vintage 2016

Wine Advocate 97 Points | The Francesco Rinaldi & Figli 2016 Barolo Riserva Cannubi is a classic beauty with thin, delicate lines that frame a core of profound and very elegant fruit. You can attribute many descriptors to the bouquet, from wild berry, pressed rose, earth, rust, crushed rock and light spice. But no one aroma out-powers the next, and together they work in careful harmony. It's also important to point out the quality of the tannins in this Riserva, which remain elegant and firm. This bottle is a great candidate for long cellar aging. 97+ (ML) (8/2022).

Winemaker Description

Intense garnet red color. Very classic and traditional with a robust structure and intense tannins. Bouquet takes a little time to show itself with slight hints of yeast. It opens slowly in the glass touch of spice and menthol. In the final, the powerful structure and concentration soften the tannins potential. Pairs well with game, red meats, and cheeses.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate 95 Points | The Vietti 2020 Barolo Ravera offers dark fruit cherry and blackcurrant enhanced by soft spice. You also get a sun-kissed note of eggplant tomato leaf and ferrous earth. Ravera displays strong lines with good acidity and firm tannic backbone. It closes dry and ages in large oak botte only. This is one of the most eyeballed MGAs sites. Ravera with its open mountain skyline and cool temperatures is seen as one of the best sites in the appellation especially as the climate changes. This vintage produced exactly 10026 bottles.

Vinous 94 Points | Picked on October 9 and 10 the 2020 Barolo Ravera has plenty of Ravera classicism and tension but also feels a bit light in the mid-palate. Ravera is never a huge wine in body but the depth is often there even if expressed in an understated and more linear manner. The 2020 lacks that depth. Red-toned fruit blood orange mint spice and white pepper lend brilliance throughout.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020 

Burghound 93 Points | (From Les Cruots which is also known as Vignes Blanches). Touches of bitter chocolate and kirsch are present on the spicy aromas of plum, violet and soft wood. The finer if not denser flavors possess a velvety texture while also coating the palate with dry extract on the dusty and chalky finish that is likewise youthfully austere. I very much like the depth and persistence and this beauty should also age gracefully for as long as most anyone would like.

Barrel Sample: 93-96 Decanter 97 Points | A very elegant expression of Echezeaux, with a velvety black plum and rose petal fruit. There is a lovely freshness and so much finesse that the tannin and structure might surprise you at the end. This has the substance to age for decades. Produced from a 0.84ha parcel in Cruots next to Comte Liger-Belair. The vines were planted in 1954 and the destemmed fruit was gently fermented.

Barrel Sample: 97Vinous 92 Points | The 2020 Echézeaux Grand Cru offers mulberry sous-bois and very subtle star anis aromas on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins quite taut and fresh linear at the moment with touches of blood orange and Clementine towards the finish. Give this several years in bottle. (Drink between 2027-2055).

Critical Acclaim

• Wine Advocate – 97 Points | “Upfront, incredibly perfumed nose of spring flowers, cured meats, roasted herbs, olives and sweet cassis fruit. Full-bodied, beautifully textured, mouth-filling and already impossible to resist — it expands on the palate and I guarantee this beauty will put a smile on your face anytime over the coming two decades.” Drinking 2016–2036.
• Wine Spectator – 96 Points | “Brooding, with layers of warm tobacco leaf, roasted alder and juniper, and sweet tapenade, backed by a dense core of macerated plum, black currant and raspberry fruit. The long, smoldering finish shows terrific latent grip.” Best from 2018–2030.
• James Suckling – 95 Points | “Super peppery, very concentrated and immaculately fragrant. Entrancing brown-spice aromas across red plums and darker black fruits. Layered, smooth and supple, pitching concentrated flavors against precise, dense and very powerful tannin. Exceptional wine.” Drink 2020–2030.
• Decanter – 95 Points | “Porcini mushroom and a touch of graphite on the finish. The acidity is well balanced, the tannins a little dry and leathery.” Drinking 2021–2033.
• Vinous – 94 Points | “Heady, intensely perfumed aromas of red fruit preserves, incense, smoky minerals and lavender. Stains the palate with sweet, seamless raspberry liquéur, spicecake and floral pastille flavors. Strikingly long and precise finish with resonating mineral and floral notes.” Drinking 2021–2030.

Tasting Notes

Red fruits, blackberry, and floral aromas of violet define the nose of La Mouline. On the palate, the wine is silky, velvety, and voluptuous with intense aromatics, seamless texture, and a finish of extraordinary length and precision. A wine of rare beauty and complexity.

About the Wine

La Mouline is one of Guigal’s legendary “La La” wines — among the most celebrated and collectible bottles in the entire Rhône Valley. Sourced from a single steep vineyard on the Côte Blonde in Côte-Rôtie, La Mouline is predominantly Syrah with a small percentage of Viognier co-fermented, lending its signature floral perfume and silky texture. The wine spends 42 months in new oak before bottling — a hallmark of Guigal’s uncompromising approach to quality.

Food Pairing

Outstanding with game birds, roasted lamb, truffle dishes, and aged hard cheeses. Also exceptional on its own as a contemplative collector’s wine.

Product Details

• Appellation: Côte-Rôtie, Northern Rhône, France
• Varietal: Syrah with Viognier (co-fermented)
• Vintage: 2012
• Format: 750ml
• Drinking Window: Now–2036
• Producer: E. Guigal