Red Wine

Winemaker Description

This wine comes from plots of bush-trained vines on poor, sandytextured soils in the Rioja Alta area. The vines are an average of morethan 35 years old and smaller yields. They are harvested with great care and transported to the winery in small containers. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainlesssteel tanks at a controlled temperature of 28ºC, with prior bleeding-off and a long maceration of three weeks in contact with theskins. Ageing in French and American oak barrels (90%-10%) over 28 months, followed by subsequent bottle conditioning for at least 4 years until it is leaves the winery.

AWARDS
93 Silver Medal · International Wine Challenge (v. 2011).

90 Puntos · James Suckling (a. 2010).

90 puntos · Guía Repsol (a. 2010).

90 puntos · Wine Spectator (a. 2009).

91 puntos · Wine Enthusiast (a. 2009).

91 puntos · Wine Wine Advocate (a. 2008).

SENSORY EVALUATION

Look: Ruby red with a noticeable rim. Excellent brightness and clarity.

Aroma & palate: On its first contact with oxygen, it appears clean but reticent. Then, sweet notes of oak appear, cinnamon, clove and candied fruits. Infinite nuances that change with the passage of time.

On the palate, it is subtle and pleasant, with great finesse uponentry and through the mid-palate.

The tannins are extremely well polished and it has a serene acidity that maintains a long finish.

SERVING & FOOD PAIRING

White meat, oven-baked fish. Cured meat and dark chocolate desserts. 

93 Silver Medal · International Wine Challenge (v. 2011).

Winemaker Description

Franck Balthazar is yet another tiny domaine in the region whose wines have become highly sought-after over the last decade; worldwide demand now far exceeds production. Predictably, market prices reflect this growth. Balthazar is a fastidious farmer and careful winemaker, which has earned him tremendous respect from his neighbors on the Cornas hill. All whole clusters are used here, no new oak, and as little sulfur as possible. If you ever encounter the unsulfured “Sans Soufre” Cornas bottlings in France, especially at any restaurants in the area, jump on them, as they are amazing but generally don’t hold up to extended shipping journeys. It’s a very strong case for the “drink local” argument. The 2020s have turned out fantastic.

Expert Review

Vinous 97 Points | Dark magenta. Highly perfumed, mineral-accented red and dark berry liqueur, candied violet, smoky bacon and Moroccan spice qualities on the nose, along with olive and black pepper nuances. Offers vibrant, palate-staining and spice-laced cassis, bitter cherry, floral pastille and smoky mineral flavors that show impressive depth and a bracing undercurrent of juicy acidity. Expands steadily with air and finishes wonderfully long and gently chewy, with polished tannins, resonating spice and floral notes.  Drinking 2026 - 2034/

Winemaker Description

Forest Glen Winery produces full-flavoured, smooth red wines that are aged in small American oak barrels and are ready to be enjoyed without further bottle aging. 

Authentic Ribera del Duero Tempranillo

Quinta Milu Ribera del Duero Tempranillo 2024 showcases the pure expression of Spain's celebrated wine region. Crafted from 100% Tempranillo grapes harvested from fifty-year-old vines, this wine captures the essence of traditional Spanish winemaking. Winemaker Germán R. Blanco describes it as "vino de pueblo"—a wine for everyday enjoyment and for everyone—reflecting his commitment to creating approachable yet authentic wines that honor the terroir of Ribera del Duero.

Artisanal Winemaking Process

Every step in creating Quinta Milu reflects dedication to quality and tradition. The grapes are carefully destemmed before aging for a minimum of six months in seasoned French or American oak casks. Staying true to natural winemaking principles, this wine is bottled unfined, unfiltered, and without cold stabilization, preserving its authentic character and allowing the terroir to shine through in every glass.

Germán R. Blanco's operation in the small town of La Aguilera is a "micro winery". He eschews modern winemaking techniques and international varieties working with old Tempranillo vines. He makes "vinos de pueblo", blended wines from different vineyards from villages in the area, as well as vinos de parcela, sourced from single-vineyards, and parcel-specific.

There is no new oak in the winery, Germán uses concrete, amphorae, and old barrels. Quinta Milú is named for Germán's son Lucas whom they lovingly refer to as "Mi Lu" or Milú.

Rich Flavor & Aroma Profile

Experience a wine that delights all the senses. The deep ruby color hints at the complexity within, while the nose reveals an inviting bouquet of dark berries, ripe cherries, and subtle vanilla undertones from oak aging. On the palate, you'll discover layers of dark fruit flavors balanced by smooth tannins and a velvety finish. The interplay of fruit-forward sweetness and gentle spice creates a harmonious drinking experience that lingers pleasantly.

Versatile Wine & Food Pairings

Quinta Milu's balanced profile makes it an exceptional companion to a wide range of dishes. Enjoy it with classic Spanish tapas, grilled chorizo, or paella for an authentic experience. It also pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, aged Manchego cheese, or hearty mushroom risotto. Whether you're planning a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant celebration, this versatile wine enhances any meal.

A Wine for Every Occasion

More than just a bottle of wine, Quinta Milu represents the soul of Ribera del Duero and the Fifth Mile philosophy of making exceptional wine accessible. Its approachable nature welcomes newcomers to Spanish wine while offering the depth and complexity that seasoned enthusiasts appreciate. Share it with friends, pair it with your favorite meal, or simply enjoy a glass as you unwind—Quinta Milu is designed for life's everyday moments and special celebrations alike.

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir 1.5L Magnum | Lodi, California

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir is California's benchmark for approachable, fruit-forward red wine. Sourced from Lodi's warm, sun-drenched vineyards — moderated by cool Delta breezes that preserve freshness and aromatic lift — this Pinot Noir is aged in a combination of French and American oak to add gentle spice and roundness. The 1.5L Magnum format is ideal for the table: generous, crowd-pleasing, and built for sharing.

Robert Mondavi founded Woodbridge Winery in Acampo, California with the belief that great winemaking should be accessible to everyone. Drawing on Lodi's long growing season and the region's deep viticultural heritage, Woodbridge has become one of California's most recognized and trusted wine brands, earning multiple Wine Enthusiast Best Buy awards since 2011.

The wine is made from Pinot Noir grapes sourced from select Lodi vineyards, where warm days and cool Delta nights allow the fruit to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity. Fermentation is followed by aging in French and American oak, which contributes notes of spice and toast without overwhelming the wine's bright, fruit-driven character.

Bright strawberry and cherry aromas open the nose, accented by a hint of spice and toast. The palate is ripe and approachable, with flavors of cherry and rich cocoa that carry through to a smooth, velvety finish. The wine is medium-bodied with soft tannins and a clean, lingering close.

The 1.5L Magnum delivers the same expressive, easy-drinking character as the standard bottle, with the added benefit of slower, more even aging in a larger format. Versatile, reliable, and endlessly crowd-pleasing

Food Pairing

A versatile everyday red for salmon, roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, pasta with red sauce, and charcuterie. Its soft tannins and bright fruit also make it an easy match for pizza, grilled vegetables, and mild cheeses. Serve slightly chilled at 55–60°F for best results.

Wine Details

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Lodi
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Vessel: French and American oak
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward
• Bottle Size: 1.5L Magnum
• Serve: 55–60°F

Winemaker Description

2017 Timeless Napa Valley is a harmonious wine that deftly balances elegant integration of both high acidity and supple fruit to create a wine with ageworthy structure and character. Notes of pomegranate and cherry on the nose are met by subtle aromas of wisteria, licorice and mint. Carried by essences of rose, plum and tart red fruit, a mouthwatering ripple of bright acidity meets delicate tannins and balancing, savory flavors of minty balsam, cozy mulling spices and stewed black fruits on the palate. 

Bedrock Wine Co. · Old Vine Zinfandel · 2023

Bedrock Old Vine Zinfandel 2023 offers juicy berry fruit, floral lift and peppery spice in a textured, inviting red. Cherry, raspberry and plum notes meet savory accents and a fresh finish, balancing generosity with restraint.

Producer & Farming

Thoughtful farming and the rehabilitation of ancient vineyards are central to Bedrock's work. Bedrock Vineyard itself is certified Organic and Regenerative Organic; the team applies the same core ethos to its outside vineyards, adapting practices to each site's soils and rainfall. These vineyard certifications do not establish certification for the entire Old Vine blend.

The approach emphasizes biodiversity, minimal soil disturbance, soil protection and animal integration. Winter and spring cover crops include more than 20 species from seven to eight plant families, supplemented by native insectary rows, pollinator pathways, owl boxes and raptor roosts. Non-till practices protect soil biology and carbon, while crimping shades the ground and helps moderate vineyard temperatures. Short periods of intensive seasonal grazing are followed by cover-crop regrowth before crimping.

Bedrock reports a fourfold increase in soil microbiology through animal integration. Its farming account describes organic matter rising from below 1% to above 5%, improving water-holding capacity by over 80,000 gallons per acre and storing 32 additional tons of carbon per acre. It notes that a 1% rise in soil organic matter can add 20,000+ gallons of water-holding capacity per acre, and compares rain absorption of 10 inches per hour in non-till systems with half an inch in tilled systems. The regenerative approach also reduces reliance on energy-intensive conventional fertilizers and offsite compost.

Jake Neustadt, Director of Viticulture. “What's inspiring about farming is when you start to think about terroir as a system where the plant is communicating with the soil. If you want to express terroir, you want the plant to be communicating with its soil instead of relying on external inputs, which the goal of everything we are doing.”

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck · 93 Points · 2023. The 2023 Zinfandel Old Vine was raised in 600-gallon foudre with a small proportion (8%) in new oak, and it’s roughly 90% Zinfandel along with an eclectic field mix. The nose opens to bright peppery spice, fresh cut flowers, and black raspberries, with deeper notes of fresh sanguine earth coming through. The palate is full-bodied yet restrained, with a detailed structure and length with a mountainous feel. It’s a great lens into the range they produce here at Bedrock and a tremendous value. Drink 2025-2032.

James Suckling · 92 Points · 2023. An expressive, fruity and well-balanced wine that shows the rich berry aromas of the grape variety while keeping a slightly tangy, lightly tannic texture that’s refreshing. Raspberries, red cherries, red plums and hints of sage and orange peel. Made from vines with an average age of 80 years.

Wine Spectator · 92 Points · 2023. Sleek and juicy, with fan-friendly cherry, raspberry, toasty spice and briar accents that glide on the zesty finish. Drink now through 2033.

Vinous · 91 Points · 2023. The 2023 Zinfandel Old Vine is a very pretty wine. Floral, spice-inflected and lifted, the 2023 is such a classy offering. In this vintage, the Old Vine Zinfandel is incredibly varietal. Even so, it is sensual, silky and wonderfully inviting. The blend is built on a core of fruit from Sodini, Bedrock, Teldeschi and Evangelho, with smaller bits from several other properties in the portfolio. Most of the wine is aged in neutral vessels, with a well-judged touch of spice from some new oak that adds flair. What an absolute delight.

Winemaker Description

The largest single component comes from the old vines at Bedrock, followed by the perfumed goodness of Esola, the softer but fresh Schmiedt, and the peppery, dark-fruited Nervo Ranch.

As usual, almost all of the wine consists of declassified barrels from vineyard-designated wines, so it offers serious bang for the buck. 85% Zinfandel with the balance a blend of Carignan, Mataro, Grenache, and Alicante Bouschet, along with esoteric creatures like Aubun, Abouriou, and many more.

Pairing & Serving

Try grilled sausages, barbecued pork, roast lamb or mushroom pizza. Serve slightly below room temperature and allow time in the glass to explore its fruit, flowers and spice.

Details

• Producer: Bedrock Wine Co.
• Vintage: 2023
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Listed appellation: Sonoma Valley
• Grape / blend: Zinfandel-led field blend; the undated winemaker note and 2023 review give different percentages
• Type: Red wine
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Vineyard character: Old vines
• Farming: Regenerative principles; Bedrock Vineyard is certified Organic and Regenerative Organic

Winemaker Description

Ruby-red color. The nose is complex and elegant. Notes of dry flowers, hay and rose petal, accompanied by a hint of chamomile. It is fresh, balanced, silky, enveloping and full-bodied on the palate. The tannins are prominent yet well-integrated. The finish is long and persistent. We recommend decanting a few hours before serving.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Jeb Dunnuck 98 Points | A medium red hue, the 2020 Barolo Rocche Di Castiglione offers more complexity and is more nuanced in the glass, with notes of dried raspberries, tangerine, roses, dried herbs, and cedar. Medium-bodied, it is crunchy with an elegant feel but has balanced structure and retains a somewhat more chiseled feel that’s true to the vintage. It has a lot to enjoy now and also has a wide drinking window. Drink 2025-2050.

The Wine Advocate 96 Points | The Vietti 2020 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a very delineated wine with sharp ferrous notes, cherry cola, redcurrant and chalky mineral. It is extremely precise in terms of its aromas. The effect is direct and layered, showing different sides and increasing complexity as it opens in the glass. Dried floral notes, purple flower and iris also appear delicately. The chalky tannins feel abrupt at this young stage, but this wine is built to last nonetheless. Only 3,512 bottles were created.

Vinous 96 Points | The 2020 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a magical wine from a magical site. It marries finesse and volume to a degree that is not found in most of the other wines in this range. Castiglione Falletto is the center of the Barolo production zone, literally and figuratively, the place where many different soil types meet. As a result, the wines often possess mind-blowing balance, which is very much the case here.

Winemaker Notes

Primus · Carménère · Apalta, Colchagua 2022

Primus finds its home in Chile’s Apalta Valley, where the producer describes a respectful approach to the vineyard rooted in regenerative organic and biodynamic principles. This 2022 Carménère brings the region’s red-fruit and herbal character to a bottle made for the table.

The winemaker describes red fruit, cedar and boldo herbs, with cherry, pepper and rosemary on a fresh, fruity palate. Silky, velvety tannins and good volume make it a natural companion for beef empanadas, curried lamb or a slow-cooked stew.

Expert reviews · 2022 vintage

James Suckling · 91 points

Sweet spices, preserved cherries and hints of white pepper and grilled herbs. Fresh, medium-bodied palate with slightly chewy tannins. From organically grown grapes with Ecocert certification. Vegan. Sustainable. Better in two more years.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate · 91 points

The 2022 Primus Carmenere represents the Neyen de Apalta style well, offering woody, herbal and slightly resinous aromas against a bed of ripe yet succulent red fruit aromas. The palate is plush and layered while remaining contained and classy, concluding with a refined, elegant finish.

Wine Spectator · 89 points

Redolent with wild berry and cherry notes, this red weaves in sage, mace and mineral accents that linger nicely around fine tannins and peppery accents. Drink now through 2030. 4,300 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.

Wine details

• Producer: Primus
• Vintage: 2022
• Grape: Carménère
• Origin: Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile
• Farming: Organically grown grapes, per the existing James Suckling review
• Style: Red wine
• Size: 750ml
• Pair with: beef empanadas, curried lamb or stews

An Apalta red with ripe fruit, savory herbs and a silky finish.

Caymus Vineyards · Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon · Napa Valley · 2020

Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 brings together dark fruit, intense concentration and fine, velvety tannins. Selected from the best barrels of the estate’s Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Special Selection combines supple flavors with the structure to enjoy upon release or with bottle aging.

Producer & Family

Chuck, Charlie and Jenny Wagner
“We feel extremely fortunate to spend our days farming grapes and making wine, following a path laid out by past generations of our family. One of our biggest fortunes is sharing good company, great food and delicious wine.”

Chuck Wagner and his late parents, Lorna and Charlie Sr., opened Caymus Vineyards in 1972 with 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Caymus remains family-owned and run, with the next generation carrying forward its farming and winemaking work.

Co-founder Charlie Wagner Sr. (1912–2002) was a dedicated farmer who became a serious home winemaker before establishing Caymus. His example of hard work, endurance and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures remains part of the family’s story.

Vineyards & House Style

Caymus Vineyards is located in the center of Napa Valley. Its Cabernet Sauvignon is grown on low-fertility soils on the valley floor and surrounding mountains. Viticultural practices include some dry farming, high-density planting, yield thinning, attention to vine health and harvesting at elevated ripeness. Some vineyard blocks are planted as closely as one meter by one meter.

The house style emphasizes dark, concentrated Cabernet with ripe, luxurious, fruit-driven softness, alongside tannins and structure for long-term bottle aging. Each year, the best barrels of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon are set aside for Special Selection.

Winemaker Description

Caymus Vineyards
Each year, Caymus sets aside the best barrels of their Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley to produce Special Selection. Distinguished by extremely fine, velvety tannins and enjoyable upon release or with aging. A wine of structure with intense concentration of supple flavors and dark fruits.

The Caymus Portfolio

Beyond its Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Caymus produces a smaller amount of Special Selection and a limited Napa Valley Zinfandel honoring co-founder Charlie Wagner Sr., for whom it was a favorite. The Wagners have also introduced Caymus California Cabernet Sauvignon, a separate bottling reflecting the state’s vineyard land with the supple, dark and rich character associated with Caymus.

Pairing Suggestions

Try with grilled steak, roast lamb, braised short ribs or hearty mushroom dishes to complement the wine’s concentrated dark fruit and velvety structure.

Details

• Producer: Caymus Vineyards
• Wine: Special Selection
• Vintage: 2020
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Type: Red wine
• Selection: Best barrels of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Expert Review

Expert Review

Vinous 97 Points Josh Raynolds writes |  Glass-staining ruby. Exotically perfumed black and blue fruit, incense and candied licorice scents, along with mineral, olive and exotic spice overtones. Seamless and expansive on the palate, offering deeply concentrated yet lively blackberry, boysenberry, cherry-cola, salty olive and floral pastille flavors that show outstanding energy and mineral lift. Slow-building tannins grow on a strikingly long, focused finish that strongly echoes the licorice and mineral notes.

Winemaker Description

Don Miguel Vineyard. Named after the late patriarch of the Torres family, this organic vineyard is located in the Green Valley- the coolest, foggiest region of the Russian River, only ten miles from the Pacific. Displays vibrant, luscious fruit reminiscent of blackberries and dark cherries.

This is a wine of precision, finesse and balance, rich and opulent on the palate, with supple tannins. It will continue to develop and gain complexity with age, at least for another 10 years. 

Gary Farrell Russian River Selection Pinot Noir · 2022

Gary Farrell blends its Russian River Selection from vineyards across the valley, bringing different climates and site characters into one Pinot Noir. The 2022 opens with Luxardo cherry, rose petal, fresh fennel, dark berry preserve and a hint of savory earth.

On the palate, sour cherry, blood orange, wild raspberry and tangy tamarind meet fine-grained tannins and firm acidity. Its full-bodied texture and long, spicy finish make this a bottle to bring to a dinner centered on roast poultry or mushrooms.

Winemaker description · 2022 vintage

Our Russian River Selection bottlings are quintessential Russian River Valley wines blended from some of the region’s top vineyards, taking advantage of varied climates and unique site characteristics. The 2022 Russian River Selection Pinot Noir has seductive aromas of Luxardo cherries intertwined with rose petals, fresh fennel, dark berry preserves, and a hint of savory earth. The youthful yet complex palate offers juicy flavors of sour cherries, blood orange, wild raspberries and with a dollop of tangy tamarind. Fine-grained tannins are balanced by firm acidity, creating a full-bodied texture, lending to an incredibly long, spicy finish.

Winemaker description

Expert review · Vintage 2022

James Suckling, 92 Points — Bright aromas of dried strawberries, wild raspberries, dried herbs and Jolly Ranchers candy. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins and acidity, giving fresh flavors of cherry confit, toffee apples and rhubarb.

At a glance

• Producer: Gary Farrell
• Wine: Russian River Selection Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2022
• Region: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Size: 750ml

A layered Russian River Pinot Noir for the table or a slow evening.

Stone Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon — 1.5L Magnum

Stone Cellars is a reliable, no-fuss California Cabernet Sauvignon built for everyday enjoyment — approachable, smooth, and consistently crowd-pleasing. The 1.5L magnum format, equivalent to two standard bottles, makes it an ideal choice for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or any occasion where a generous pour is in order. Screw cap for easy opening anytime.

Aromas of cocoa and vanilla lead the way, followed by rich flavors of currant, dark ripe fruit, cassis, and cola, with warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Smooth and medium-bodied, with a soft finish that makes it easy to enjoy on its own or with food.

Food Pairings

• Grilled burgers and steaks
• BBQ ribs and roasted meats
• Pizza and pasta with red sauce
• Aged cheddar and hard cheeses

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: California
Format: 1.5L Magnum (= 2 standard bottles) | Screw cap

Yellow Tail Cabernet Sauvignon — South Eastern Australia (1.5L Magnum)

Yellow Tail is Australia’s most recognized wine brand — and for good reason. Built on the philosophy that great wine should be approachable, affordable, and fun, Yellow Tail has introduced millions of people to Australian Cabernet Sauvignon with a style that is consistently reliable, fruit-forward, and easy to love. The Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from South Eastern Australia’s warm, sun-drenched vineyards, producing grapes of generous ripeness and soft tannin structure. This 1.5L Magnum format is the smart choice for entertaining: more wine, better value, and a bottle that makes a statement on any table.

The nose offers a touch of mint layered over ripe blackberries and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is smooth and approachable, with toasted oak, ripe dark fruit, and soft, velvety tannins that carry through a generous, easy-drinking finish. No fuss, no pretension — just a crowd-pleasing Cabernet that delivers every time.

• Producer: Yellow Tail, South Eastern Australia
• Appellation: South Eastern Australia
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)
• Tasting Notes: Mint, blackberry, vanilla, toasted oak, soft velvety tannins
• Best Paired With: Burgers, BBQ, grilled sausages, pizza, casual entertaining

Australia’s most beloved Cabernet in a Magnum — Yellow Tail is the no-brainer choice for parties, picnics, and any occasion that calls for more wine.

Winemaker Description

Wine made with only grapes, well-kept vineyards, and healthy land.” 

This is the mantra of Castellano winegrower Alfredo Maestro, a bright light amongst an abyss of industrially farmed, over-ripe, over-oaked, and over-manipulated wine-scape that is the Ribera del Duero these days.   

Alfredo Maesto is a city man, who has become a farmer as a choice and not because of circumstances. He is guided by passion and love, which we find in each of his bottles. His production is mainly of reds (Tempranillo and Garnacha) which can be drank both young and aged; then there’s the LoveAmor, the albillo (white grapes) pure which surprises even the most demanding of tasters. Alfredo Maestro manages some vineyards near Madrid, but mainly in Castilla y Leon, in Penafel in the Ribera near Valladolid (the Spanish Bolgheri), land which has always celebrated the most famous Spanish reds. To process natural wines in this piece of land is like finding yourself on the frontline in the Caporetto battle and yet, Alfredo Maestro, teacher both in name and facts, acting as a righteous Charon he takes on the task of ferrying heretic sommeliers from vanilla wines with shavings icing towards the right way of pure, real wine. Winemaker Description.