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Napa Zinfandel with Finesse — From One of California’s Iconic Estates

Grgich Hills is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates, founded by Miljenko “Mike” Grgich — the winemaker behind the legendary 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Their 2019 Napa Valley Zinfandel is a departure from the overblown Zins of the past: elegant, fresh, and certified organic, with lifted acidity and fine-grained tannins that showcase what Zinfandel can do when approached with finesse.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

• Decanter — 92 pts: “Opulent and lavish nose of menthol, cassis and spice, palate of dark fruit, redcurrant, bramble and spicy oak.”
• Wine Review Online — 92 pts: “A breath of fresh air. An elegant medium ruby with strawberry jam, sweet cherry, vanilla, fine-grained tannins and lifted, fresh acidity. This wine showcases well what Zinfandel can do when approached with finesse.”

Winemaker Notes

Grgich Hills Zinfandel Napa Valley 2019 750ml

Inviting aromas of cherry, raspberry, and blackberry intermixed with hints of cranberry and blood orange. Graceful and soft on the front palate, with mixed red berries and lively tannins adding luscious texture through the mid-palate. Its long finish reveals spicy undertones and superb freshness — built to age beautifully for many years.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Zinfandel
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Grgich Hills Estate
• Vintage: 2019
• Certified: Organic
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A versatile red — excellent with BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, pizza, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and spiced dishes.

The golden-yellow exterior of Château Lafon-Rochet is visible from afar as one ascends the D2 road through the Médoc — a bold, warm landmark that reflects the passion and commitment of everyone who makes its wines. One of Saint-Estèphe's oldest estates, with origins dating to the 16th century, Lafon-Rochet was classified as a Quatrième Grand Cru Classé in 1855. In late 2021, the Lorenzetti family acquired the estate, bringing in Technical Director Christophe Congé — formerly of Lafite-Rothschild — to lead a new chapter of precision and ambition.

The Château Lafon-Rochet Saint-Estèphe 2022 750ml signals that new era emphatically. The 2022 vintage brings more richness and mid-palate intensity than in the past, while preserving the estate's signature elegance. Fresh strawberry and red cherry on the nose give way to a palate of gorgeous weight and suppleness — currants, cassis, graphite, dark chocolate, and crushed stone — with ripe, building tannins and a long, precise finish. Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls it "the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe." An exciting new chapter for a great estate.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Vinous (Antonio Galloni) — 95–97 Points: "Fabulous. Once again, Lafon-Rochet is the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe. The 2022 signals a new era for the château. It's an exciting time."
• Decanter — 95 Points: "An exceptional wine in 2022. Smooth and round, generous and deep, with lovely precision. Extremely complete and well made with control and finesse."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 95 Points: "Seriously good, concentrated, powerful expression with beautiful purity, ripe, building tannins, and a great finish."
• James Suckling — 94 Points: "Dark chocolate, cigar box, blackcurrants, white pepper and graphite. Very juicy and nicely chewy on the palate, with a full body and a tight, lengthy finish."
• Wine Advocate — 91 Points: "Rich, ripe, full-bodied, soft and fat palate with sweet jammy berries, fig preserve, licorice and creamy new oak."

Wine Details

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Saint-Estèphe AOC, 4ème Grand Cru Classé, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• 750ml

Winemaker Notes

Deep red with purple highlights, the Altos del Plata Malbec opens with predominant aromas of black fruits — plum and wild berries — in harmony with toasted hints and spicy notes of white pepper. On the palate, it is fruity and fresh with a gentle structure and a slight toasted touch from barrel aging.

Grown at 3,500 feet above sea level in Mendoza, Terrazas de los Andes vineyards benefit from a unique high-altitude microclimate that yields an intense yet approachable Malbec — a true expression of Argentina's most celebrated red grape.

• Grape Source: 100% Malbec
• Appellation: Mendoza
• Location: Argentina
• Altitude: 3,500 feet above sea level
• Aging: Barrel aged
• Cultivation: Sustainable

Producer Notes

Skouras is one of Greece’s most celebrated modern wineries, based in Nemea in the Peloponnese — the heartland of Aghiorghitiko (Saint George), Greece’s most noble red grape variety. The Saint George is their benchmark expression of the appellation: bright morello cherry-red in color with aromas of blackberries, raspberries, and ripe strawberries, touched by tobacco, clove, and cinnamon. Medium-bodied with elegant structure, balanced acidity, and very ripe, elegant tannins. The finish is moderately long, dominated by red fruits and followed by sweet vanilla and black pepper.

Food Pairings

• Grilled lamb chops or slow-roasted lamb
• Moussaka or beef stifado
• Aged Graviera or Kefalograviera cheese
• Mushroom dishes or hearty lentil stews

Winemaker Description 

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

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

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

La Vieille Ferme · Rouge · Ventoux · Rhône Valley, France · 3.0L Box Wine

La Vieille Ferme is produced by the Perrin family — the same family behind Château de Beaucastel, one of the most celebrated estates in all of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Drawing on their deep roots in the southern Rhône, the Perrins created La Vieille Ferme as their benchmark everyday wine: genuine Rhône character, vinified in the tradition of Beaucastel, at a price that makes it a weekly staple. The Rouge is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, and Cinsault sourced from the Ventoux appellation — a wine built for the table, for friends, and for any occasion that calls for a generous, crowd-pleasing red. Now in 3.0L bag-in-box format, equivalent to four standard bottles and staying fresh for up to six weeks after opening. At $29.95, this is the red wine you keep on hand all year.

Ruby-purple in the glass with an inviting nose of cassis, dark plum, and fresh herbs. On the palate: richly fruity and supple, with flavors of plum, blackberry, and a stony, savory undercurrent that gives the wine real length and definition. Wine & Spirits awarded 90 points, noting its “tangy berry flavors playing over a stony savor that holds the wine long and clean.” The bag-in-box format preserves freshness and eliminates waste — pour a glass whenever you want, and the wine stays as vibrant as the day you opened it. Pair with grilled lamb, roast chicken, beef stew, pasta with tomato sauce, pizza, or aged cheeses.

• Producer: La Vieille Ferme · Perrin Family (Château de Beaucastel)
• Wine: Rouge · Ventoux AOC
• Origin: Ventoux, Rhône Valley, France
• Blend: Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault
• Style: Fruity, supple, food-friendly southern Rhône red
• Score: Wine & Spirits 90 Points
• Format: 3.0L Bag-in-Box · Equivalent to 4 standard bottles
• Freshness: Stays fresh up to 6 weeks after opening
• Drinking Window: Now
• Tasting Notes: Cassis, dark plum, blackberry, fresh herbs, stony savor, long clean finish
• Pair With: Grilled lamb · Roast chicken · Beef stew · Pasta · Pizza · Aged cheeses

Beaucastel pedigree, Ventoux soul — four bottles of Rhône red, ready whenever you are.

Gramona La Cuvée Aliances — Corpinnat, Catalonia 2022

Gramona is the undisputed standard-bearer of Corpinnat — the prestigious new appellation born from a breakaway group of the finest traditional-method sparkling wine producers in the Penèdes, committed to stricter quality standards, longer aging, and a deeper expression of Catalan terroir. Founded in 1881 in Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Gramona has farmed biodynamically for decades and is one of Spain's most respected sparkling wine houses, producing wines that rival the finest Champagnes in complexity and longevity. La Cuvée Aliances is their entry into the Corpinnat range: a traditional-method Brut crafted from the classic indigenous varieties — Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada — grown on certified organic and biodynamic vineyards in the heart of the Penèdes.

The color is pale yellow with steel edges — white gold in the glass. The nose is elegant and medium-intensity: floral notes wrapped in stone fruit — peach and apricot — alongside golden apple, lemon peel, and pineapple. Bakery notes of brioche and almonds add depth, with balsamic hints of fennel and bay leaf giving a distinctive Catalan character. On the palate, it is fresh, precise, and beautifully balanced — fine persistent bubbles, lively acidity, and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

"Pale yellow, steel edges. Elegant floral notes wrapped in stone fruit — peach, apricot, golden apple, lemon peel, pineapple. Notes of bakery, almonds, fennel and bay leaf." — Gramona Winemaker

• Producer: Gramona, Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penèdes, Catalonia, Spain
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Corpinnat
• Method: Mètode Tradicional (Traditional Method)
• Varieties: Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada
• Style: Brut
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, apricot, golden apple, lemon peel, pineapple, brioche, almonds, fennel, bay leaf, mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled seafood, sushi, tapas, Manchego, light appetizers, aperitivo

Spain's answer to great Champagne — Gramona La Cuvée Aliances is biodynamic, precise, and one of Corpinnat's most compelling values.

Winemaker Description 

Selected from the lighter Porto of each year, these wines are chosen for ageing in small oak casks to develop their style. Sandemans Original Fine Tawny has the fruit and style of great Porto - but with an added finesse.

Pale in colour and light in body this Port is superb as chilled aperitif, yet satisfying when served at the end of a meal. 

Saint Cosme · Côte-Rôtie · 2023

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Wine Spectator, 94 Points — This refined, graceful version is winey, offering steeped currant flecked with bacon fat, dried leaves, white pepper and mocha. Streaming and fluid in feel, with salty, mineral intensity building toward the long, elegant finish, which shows polished tannins. Though drinking beautifully now, this will benefit from time in bottle. Best from 2026 through 2038.

Jeb Dunnuck, 93 Points — Coming from the Rozier, Tupin, and Maison Rouge lieux-dits and all Syrah, the 2023 is a beautiful Côte Rôtie offering red and black fruits and some pepper and floral nuances, intermixed with a subtle bloody, meaty character. It's elegant, medium to full-bodied, pure, layered, and seamless, with ripe tannins. Give it a few years and drink over the following 15 years. Drink 2028-2043.

Vinous, 93 Points — The 2023 Côte-Rôtie assembles 100% whole-cluster grapes from the five different lieux-dits Côte Bodin, Rozier, Semons, But De Mont and Maison Rouge. Pronounced blackberry, fresh violets, smoothly lifted pepper and minty shadings are all pushed forward. Midweight and smooth, the 2023 is a delicious Côte-Rôtie from Louis Barruol, centering the last notes with drive and precision. This narrowly outperforms the 2022 I tasted last year.

Winemaker Description

On the palate, it reveals a fresh attack followed by an ample, structured, long-lasting finish. The wine unfurls in successive stages and ends with top-quality tannins produced by whole cluster fermentation. It features aromas and flavors of smoked ham, violet, graphite, and licorice.
— Saint Cosme

Food Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Roasted lamb, duck confit, or a rich mushroom risotto work wonderfully to harmonize with the wine's complexity. Serving it at a slightly cooler temperature, around 60–65°F, will enhance its aromatic profile. Allow the bottle to breathe for at least an hour before serving to fully appreciate the depth of flavors.

Specs

• Producer: Saint Cosme (Louis Barruol)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Côte-Rôtie, Rhône Valley, France
• Varietal: 100% Syrah
• Size: 750ml

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Jasper Morris 92-94 Points | Mid lemon. A little more stuffing than the very agreeable Chenevottes, digging deep into fresh yellow fruit, some citrus rind, good acidity, and a particularly appealing intense crisp white fruit finish. Old vines count! 

Neal Martin writes:  The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Champs Gain 1er Cru has a touch more mineralité on the nose compared to the Les Chenevottes, touches of gypsum and oyster shell intermingling with light white linen scents. The palate is very well balanced and beautifully poised, with entrancing white peach and nectarine notes toward the irresistible finish. Yes, yes, yes!  Drinking 2025 to 2048.  - Vinous 93-95

William Kelley writes: Aromas of citrus zest, peach and pear, mingled with hints of white flowers, hazelnuts and fresh bread, preface the 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Champs Gain, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and nicely concentrated wine with a bright spine of acidity and a mouthwateringly chalky finish. This looks to be Colin's best Champs Gain since 2017.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 91-93

Winemaker Description 

Founded in 1970 by Marc Colin and his wife Michele, Domaine Marc Colin now spans 15 hectares encompassing 26 appellations in St. Aubin, Chassagne, Puligny, and Santenay. Most of the land was inherited from past generations of Colin and Ponavoy; certain parcels have been in the family for more than 100 years. While the family does own prime territory in Chassagne, home base in St. Aubin features parcels of the very best vineyards, En Remilly and Chatenière, to name a few. These vineyards accrue prestige due to their sloped location; while much of St. Aubin resides on flat ground (rendering less interesting wines) the Colin properties are all situated on finely pitched hillsides. The resulting wines shimmer with savory minerality and luster.

Today Joseph, Caroline, and Damien, the children of Marc and Michele, own and run the domaine. The fourth sibling Pierre-Yves (who made the wine at Marc Colin for 10 years) established his own project in 2005. Sustainable and organic agriculture, older vines, and clay-limestone soils are just some of the components contributing to the quality of the final product. Winemaking style would best be called traditional, though Joseph (who makes the whites) and Damien (who makes the reds) are certainly not shy of innovation. Whites strive for optimum freshness; there is no heavy, ungainly wood here. The red wines are characterized by silky texture, ever-present fruit and a certain roundness with just a kiss of oak. Production consists of 70% white and 30% red with total production maxing out at 120,000 bottles.

Winemaker Description

Our Sauvignon Blanc has brilliant clarity and offers subtle aromas of lemon, kiwi and herbaceous notes. This medium-bodied wine is filled with grapefruit and citrus flavors and ends with a crisp, refreshing finish.

Poggio al Tufo Rompicollo — Maremma Toscana 2022

Poggio al Tufo Rompicollo is a Tuscan “Super Value,” crafted from a single-vineyard site in the Alta Maremma.

Poggio al Tufo is the Maremma estate of Tommasi Family Estates, one of Italy's most respected multi-generational wine families. Situated in the Alta Maremma near Pitigliano, the estate takes its name from the volcanic tufo rock that defines its soils — porous, mineral-rich, and unlike anything found in the more celebrated corners of Tuscany. The Rompicollo vineyard sits on a south-facing slope where the combination of volcanic soils, Mediterranean warmth, and coastal breezes produces wines of uncommon depth and freshness for the price.

The 2022 Rompicollo is a blend of 60% Sangiovese and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon — a Tuscan-international marriage that works beautifully here. The Sangiovese brings structure, acidity, and that characteristic Tuscan earthiness; the Cabernet adds body, dark fruit, and a plush mid-palate that rounds out the blend. The result is a wine that punches well above its price point: serious, food-friendly, and immediately approachable.

Deep, bright ruby in the glass. The nose is elegant and layered — ripe blackberries and raspberries, dried aromatic herbs, a whisper of sweet spice, and the faint mineral signature of volcanic soil. On the palate it is full-bodied and mellow, with velvety tannins, a mouth-filling texture, and a finish that lingers with dark fruit and earthy warmth. Richly flavored yet supple — a wine that rewards both the casual weeknight table and the more considered dinner.

• Producer: Poggio al Tufo (Tommasi Family Estates), Alta Maremma, Tuscany
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Maremma Toscana DOC
• Blend: 60% Sangiovese, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Medium-full bodied, fruit-forward Tuscan red
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, dried herbs, sweet spice, volcanic mineral
• Drink Window: Now–2027
• Best Paired With: Pasta Bolognese, grilled lamb, wild boar ragu, aged pecorino, charcuterie

Maremma's volcanic soils. Tommasi's generational craft. A Tuscan red that overdelivers at every pour.

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon That Defines Organic Elegance

Grgich Hills Estate has been a Napa Valley icon since Miljenko "Mike" Grgich crafted the legendary Chardonnay that triumphed at the 1976 Paris Tasting. Their Organic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to biodynamic farming and old-world winemaking philosophy — structured, graceful, and built to age. The 2021 vintage delivers the hallmark Grgich precision: bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, and a fruit profile that is both expressive and restrained.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

• Decanter — 94 pts: "Grgich's Napa Cabernet is a bright, energetic, savoury-styled Napa classic. Its effusive black fruits and spearmint aromas give way to a medium to full-bodied red with a dusty tannin backbone framed by almost electric acidity. This impressive, tightly-knit, lovely structured Cabernet will prove a standout of the vintage."
• James Suckling — 90 pts: "Aromas of sweet red and purple berries, dried hibiscus, moss and thyme. Full-bodied with firm tannins. The aromas continue onto the palate, with the sweet fruit as the star of the show. From organically grown grapes."

Winemaker Notes

Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon Organic Napa 2021 750ml

This elegant, graceful wine opens with aromas of blackberries, blueberries, sweet blackcurrant and ripe black cherry, supported by hints of vanilla and sandalwood. The flavors on the palate are of fresh red and black berry fruit accompanied by hints of rosemary and violets. The richness of the fruit is balanced with bright acidity and soft, smooth tannins leading to a long and vibrant finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Grgich Hills Estate
• Vintage: 2021
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for the table — exceptional with prime rib, lamb chops, braised short ribs, aged cheeses, mushroom dishes, and hearty pasta with meat sauce.

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc — California | 1.5L Magnum

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi is one of California’s most trusted everyday wine brands, carrying forward Robert Mondavi’s pioneering commitment to quality, accessible California wine. Their Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from California’s finest cool-climate growing regions and crafted in a bright, fruit-forward style that balances refreshing citrus with tropical aromatics — clean, lively, and effortlessly food-friendly. The 1.5L Magnum is the smart buy for entertaining: more wine, better value, and the confidence that the glass stays full.

The nose is crisp and inviting: fresh lime, lemon zest, grapefruit, and a wave of tropical fruit — passionfruit and melon — with a clean, herbaceous lift that signals classic Sauvignon Blanc character. On the palate, it is bright and refreshing, with lively acidity, a clean dry finish, and the kind of versatility that makes it equally at home with a weeknight dinner or a warm summer afternoon on the patio. Best served slightly chilled.

“With crisp, bright, refreshing citrus and tropical aromas and flavors, our Sauvignon Blanc is a fruit-forward wine that shines alone and alongside food.” — Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, Acampo, California
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
• Style: Crisp, bright, fruit-forward, dry
• Format: 1.5L Magnum
• Best Served: Slightly chilled
• Best Paired With: Seared scallops, linguine with seafood, grilled fish, oysters, crab cakes, spring salads with chèvre, roast chicken, fresh appetizers

California’s most reliable everyday Sauvignon Blanc in the Magnum that keeps the party going — Woodbridge delivers bright, citrus-driven, food-friendly white wine at an unbeatable price per glass.

Pierre Moncuit Coulmet Brut Blanc de Blancs (Base 2020) is a beautifully expressive Grower Champagne made from 100% Chardonnay sourced from the Côte de Sézanne, just south of the famed Côte des Blancs. Produced by the historic family-run house of Pierre Moncuit, this cuvée offers a fresh and approachable introduction to the domaine's elegant, Chardonnay-driven style.

Though labeled non-vintage, this release is based on the 2020 harvest. The wine is vinified in stainless steel and aged on the lees for approximately 24 months before release, giving it lovely texture and finesse while preserving its bright, mineral character.

In the glass, Coulmet opens with inviting aromas of white peach, lemon zest, green apple, fresh flowers, and light pastry notes. The palate is crisp and lively, with fine bubbles and flavors of citrus, orchard fruit, chalk, and subtle brioche. Clean, balanced, and refreshing — an exceptional aperitif and a wonderful match for shellfish, sushi, light seafood dishes, and soft cheeses.

A terrific value in Grower Champagne and a perfect bottle for those discovering the purity and charm of Blanc de Blancs.

"The NV (Base 2020) Brut Blanc de Blancs Coulmet, from vines in Sézanne, is soft, open-knit and gracious, all of which make it a fine choice for drinking now and over the next handful of years. Baked apple tart, apricot, dried flowers and spice are all beautifully laced together. This is such a pretty and alluring Champagne. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: May 2025."
— Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media | 91 VM

"The wine (Base 2020) offers up a lovely nose of pear, raw almond, chalky soil tones, bread dough and a topnote of white flowers. On the palate the wine is bright, zesty and full-bodied, with a good core of fruit, fine mineral undertow, elegant mousse, brisk acids and fine length and grip on the complex and well balanced finish. Good juice. (Drink between 2024–2045)"
— Jeb Dunnuck | 90 JD

Wine Details

• Producer: Pierre Moncuit
• Cuvée: Coulmet
• Style: Brut Blanc de Blancs
• Base Vintage: 2020
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Subregion: Côte de Sézanne
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Aging: Approx. 24 months sur lie
• Dosage: 7 g/L
• Disgorgement: May 2025

About Pierre Moncuit

Based in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne Pierre Moncuit is a historic family estate particularly renowned for its Chardonnay-based Champagnes. While the estate's flagship Delos cuvée comes from Grand Cru Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Coulmet draws from the family's holdings in the Côte de Sézanne — a region prized for its rounder, fruit-forward expression of Chardonnay.

Why We Like It

Coulmet delivers the hallmark precision and elegance of Pierre Moncuit at an accessible price point. The Côte de Sézanne fruit adds a generous, approachable character that makes this an ideal everyday Champagne — and a compelling introduction to the world of Grower Champagne.

Hess Select Chardonnay Monterey County 2024 — Monterey County, California

Hess Collection is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estates spanning Napa Valley and beyond. Hess Select is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to quality as their flagship wines but designed for the table. This Monterey County Chardonnay draws from one of California’s premier cool-climate appellations, where Pacific breezes off Monterey Bay preserve natural acidity and allow grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, producing Chardonnay of genuine character at an honest price.

A thoughtful blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak fermentation keeps the wine fresh and bright while adding a touch of richness. The nose opens with aromas of grilled pineapple, star fruit, and vanilla, leading to a medium-bodied palate of sliced peach and golden apple, with a touch of crème brûlée on the finish — clean, balanced, and crowd-pleasing.

70% stainless, 30% French oak — Monterey freshness with just enough richness to satisfy.

• Producer: Hess Collection (Hess Select), Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Monterey County
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Fermentation: 70% stainless steel, 30% French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Grilled pineapple, star fruit, vanilla, sliced peach, golden apple, crème brûlée finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster mac and cheese, creamy pasta, Brie, aged cheddar, goat cheese

Consistent, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely well-made — Hess Select Chardonnay is the benchmark for everyday California white.

Discover the Richness of Primitivo di Manduria

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

James Suckling - 91 Points | A spiced nose of dark berries, smoked herbs and hints of mushrooms and moist earth. Full-bodied, dense and plush, with firm tannins and rich, almost sweet berry character.

Memo Summary Notes

The San Marzano "Anniversario 62" Primitivo di Manduria Riserva 2019 is an iconic, opulent red from Puglia that serves as a tribute to the winery's founding year. It is widely considered a benchmark for the region, known for its massive concentration, "noble" tannins, and a luxurious, velvety texture.

Why 62? The name commemorates 1962, the year 19 vine growers came together to found Cantine San Marzano. This Riserva is only made from their oldest, lowest-yielding bush vines, which results in much higher flavor concentration than standard Primitivo.

Because of its richness and hint of sweetness, it needs bold flavors to stand up to it:

• Meats: Slow-cooked beef short ribs, venison with a berry reduction, or grilled lamb chops.

• Italian Classics: Orecchiette with a spicy sausage and broccoli rabe ragu.

• Indulgent: Dark chocolate desserts or a platter of extra-aged Pecorino and blue cheeses.

Experience the Taste of Primitivo

San Marzano Anniversario 62 Primitivo di Manduria Riserva 2019 showcases the exceptional quality of Primitivo grapes. This wine is full-bodied, offering rich fruit flavors, including notes of black cherry and plum. It has a smooth texture and balanced acidity, making it an ideal choice for both casual and formal occasions. People appreciate its versatility, as it pairs well with various dishes, from pasta to grilled meats.

Why Choose San Marzano Anniversario 62?

This particular vintage stands out not only for its taste but also for its meticulous production process. San Marzano winery is known for its commitment to quality, and the 2019 Riserva reflects that dedication. The grapes are carefully harvested and fermented, ensuring that the unique characteristics of the Primitivo grape shine through. Therefore, when you choose this wine, you're selecting a product with a rich heritage and a promise of exceptional quality.

An Ideal Wine for Every Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or enjoying a quiet evening at home, San Marzano Primitivo di Manduria is the perfect companion. Because of its complexity and rich flavor profile, it can elevate any dining experience. Many wine lovers recommend serving it slightly below room temperature to enhance its aromatic qualities. So, if you’re looking for a memorable wine experience, consider the San Marzano Anniversario 62 Primitivo di Manduria Riserva 2019.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Jane Anson 95 Points | Tasted at the Palmères de Castillon event, where I was a jury member, and this was one of the wines picked out blind. I checked it against a different bottle at home later, and suggest that it is given at least half an hour in a carafe, as it remains fairly closed, but once again this is proof of the quality of 2022, and it's a seriously impressive wine that offers wonderful value. I'm always a fan of Clos Puy Arnaud, and you get the deft precision of the winemaking here, coupled with ripe blueberry and raspberry fruits, liquorice, black tea, pomegranate and slate-scrape tannins. 

Vinous 94 Points | The 2022 Clos Puy Arnaud is a dense, extroverted wine. Inky dark fruit, licorice, menthol and cloves are all amplified. Usually Clos Puy Arnaud is more refined, but in 2022, the vintage dominates and speaks loudly. Even so, this is a compelling offering. I look forward to tasting it with bottle age. 

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Sleek and polished, with alluring notes of blackberry puree and warmed cassis that glide through, while fine-grained tannins, a buried chalky spine and a gilding of sweet tobacco add range and length. Shows a mouthwatering floral echo at the end.

Memo Summary Notes

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2022 Clos Puy Arnaud is a standout release from the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, largely considered one of the best "value" wines of this highly acclaimed vintage. Produced by Thierry Valette (whose family famously once owned Château Pavie), this estate is a pioneer in biodynamic viticulture on Bordeaux's Right Bank.

The 2022 vintage in Bordeaux was marked by extreme heat, but Clos Puy Arnaud’s limestone plateau location helped maintain remarkable freshness.

Marchesi Di Barolo Barolo Tradizione DOCG 2019 375ml HALF BOTTLE

Experience the essence of Barolo with Marchesi Di Barolo. This delightful 2019 vintage has earned 92 points from James Suckling, 91 points from Jeb Dunnuck, 91 points from Wine Spectator, and 90 points from Wine Enthusiast. Barolo, often referred to as the 'king of wines,' holds a revered position in the wine world. Sourced from the sun-drenched vineyards of Piedmont, every sip encapsulates the essence of the Nebbiolo grape, cherished for its elegance and aging potential. The 375ml half bottle makes it a perfect choice for intimate gatherings or solo moments of indulgence.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

James Suckling - 92 Points

A medium-bodied red with plums and cherries as well as spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon. Fine tannins and a fresh finish. Easy to drink for a 2019. Drink now or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck - 91 Points

The brick red-colored 2019 Barolo has an expressive nose woven with notes of dried cherries, menthol, black truffles, and pine. It boasts a good deal of energy on the palate, with ripe concentration, an even spine of acidity, and a sanguine lift of iron on the finish. Offering ripe tannins, a velvety texture, and a good finish, this is a solid entry Barolo to enjoy over the next 5-6 years.

Wine Spectator - 91 Points

A juicy red marked by a mix of cherry and vegetal aromas and flavors, with iron and eucalyptus accents emerging as this builds to the lingering finish. Fresh and firm, with balance and an earthy aftertaste. Best from 2026 through 2040.

Wine Enthusiast - 90 Points

Mixed red and blue - some raspberry, tart blue, amaro herbs, mixed spices. Rounded on palate with balanced tannins that are supple and support the lush fruit, finishing with savory and distinct mineral notes. Drink Now - 2040

Marchesi Di Barolo - Esteemed Winery

Produced by esteemed winery Marchesi Di Barolo, one of the most historic and respected producers in Barolo. The estate has been producing exceptional wines since 1807.

DOCG - Highest Italian Classification

DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) is Italy's highest wine classification. This designation guarantees origin, quality, and adherence to strict production standards.

2019 Vintage

This delightful 2019 vintage showcases the quality of this exceptional year. The 2019 vintage produced wines of excellent balance and aging potential.

Winemaker Description - Vintage 2022

The aromas on the nose are fresh, ranging from white fruit such as pear and apple, to tropical fruit like pineapple and plum.

Fresh and indulgent opening, with a tasteful balance between sweetness and acidity and fruity notes of acidic and white fruit appear in the finish.

Pairs with exotic flavors such as Thai Tom Yum soup, Peruvian sea-bass ceviche, Mexican quesadillas or Labneh and Tahini served with pita bread. Also, with traditional ham and cheese French omelet, buttered grilled corn on the cob, chicken pie, or wild mushroom risotto and even dessert like tarte Tatin or crema catalana.

La Marca · Prosecco DOC Rosé · Veneto, Italy

Crafted in the heart of Italy, La Marca Prosecco Rosé offers a new way to enjoy Prosecco: the bright, crisp fruit and floral essence of La Marca's traditional Prosecco combined with the delicate elegance of Pinot Noir for a playful pop of pink.

Classic notes of fresh-picked citrus, honeysuckle, peach, and pear blend beautifully with hints of ripe red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry. Zesty, refreshing, and effervescent, it's built for any soirée or spontaneous celebration.

Winemaker Description

Bubbly and lively La Marca Prosecco Rosé was crafted in the heart of Italy. This playful pop of pink offers a new way to enjoy Prosecco: with the bright, crisp fruit and floral essence of our traditional Prosecco combined with the delicate elegance of Pinot Noir.
— La Marca

Pairings & Serving

Pair it with salmon and avocado salad, creamy burrata and crusty bread, or juicy fruits like watermelon and cherries for a stylishly simple treat. It isn't just for summer either: in cooler months, its bright notes pair beautifully with apple and goat cheese salad, warm baked brie, butternut squash soup, or hearty roasted vegetables.

Specs

• Producer: La Marca
• Style: Prosecco DOC Rosé (Non-Vintage)
• Appellation: Veneto, Italy
• Blend: Glera & Pinot Noir
• Format: 187ml Splits, 24-Pack Case

Vincent Cuillier L'Arbre Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature — Champagne 2022

L'Arbre is Vincent Cuillier's most personal wine — a single-parcel Blanc de Noirs from Les Voyets, the family's most historic vineyard in the Marne village of Pouillon. The name references Cuillier's deep commitment to vitiforestry: the integration of trees and biodiversity into the vineyard ecosystem as a living expression of natural viticulture. Made exclusively from 100% Pinot Meunier with zero dosage, this is a vintage Champagne of remarkable purity and depth. Indigenous yeast fermentation in stainless steel, 36 months sur lattes, and hand disgorgement with no fining or filtration — nothing added, nothing taken away.

Plump, forward berry fruit opens the nose — red cherry, wild strawberry, and a whisper of brioche — kept in elegant check by crisp acidity and fine, mineral-driven lines. The palate is taut and precise, with the zero dosage revealing the wine's true character: pure, focused, and long on the finish. A Blanc de Noirs of genuine cellar-worthiness and rare transparency of place.

"L'Arbre is grower Champagne at its most uncompromising — a single parcel, a single variety, zero dosage, and a winemaker who lets the vineyard speak."

• Producer: Vincent Cuillier, Pouillon, Marne, Champagne, France
• Vintage: 2022 (Disgorged)
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Parcel: Les Voyets, Pouillon
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Meunier
• Style: Blanc de Noirs, Brut Nature (Zero Dosage)
• Vinification: Indigenous yeast, stainless steel; 36 months sur lattes; hand-disgorged
• Dosage: Zero | Farming: Natural viticulture / Vitiforestry
• Fining & Filtration: None
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red cherry, wild strawberry, brioche, crisp acidity, mineral lines, long pure finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, sea urchin, shellfish, charcuterie, aged ham, mushroom dishes, Brie, Camembert, roast chicken

Single parcel. Single variety. Zero dosage. 36 months on the lees. Vincent Cuillier's L'Arbre is the purest expression of Pinot Meunier in Champagne.

Schloss Lieser SL Feinherb Estate Riesling has herbal and minerally aroma, really flinty on the nose. Has aromas of fruit and slate that lead to a fresh and round palate with a salty finish.

Douloufakis Winery Vidiano — Crete, Greece 2024

Douloufakis Winery is one of Crete's most celebrated family estates, based in the Dafnes appellation in the heart of the island and dedicated to championing Crete's extraordinary indigenous grape varieties. Vidiano is their signature white — a rare, ancient Cretan variety that nearly disappeared in the 20th century and has been lovingly revived by passionate producers like Douloufakis. Aromatic, full-bodied, and distinctly Mediterranean in character, it is one of Greece's most exciting white grapes and a wine that consistently surprises those who discover it for the first time.

Pale golden in the glass with a beautifully expressive nose: ripe peach and apricot are dominant, with traces of quince and delicate floral notes of chamomile, jasmine, and fresh herbs. On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied with the same generous fruit character, well-balanced acidity, and a fine, lingering finish. Elegant, aromatic, and built for the table.

"Pale golden color. Peach and apricot aromas are dominant and quince traces. There are floral notes of chamomile, jasmine and herbs. Rich flavor with the same dominant aromas. On the palate well-balanced acidity, full-bodied with a fine finish." — Douloufakis Winemaker

• Producer: Douloufakis Winery, Dafnes, Crete, Greece
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Crete PGI
• Varietal: 100% Vidiano
• Style: Full-Bodied, Aromatic, Floral
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe peach, apricot, quince, chamomile, jasmine, fresh herbs, balanced acidity, fine finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, roasted chicken, seafood pasta, soft cheeses, mezze, roasted vegetables with herbs
• Serve: Chilled, 48–52°F

One of Greece's most exciting indigenous white grapes — Douloufakis Vidiano is Crete's best-kept secret, and it won't stay secret for long.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2014

The Wine Advocate 94 Points | I loved the nose of the 2014 Viña Bosconia Reserva, a red that sells at an incredible price for the quality, the problem is (like all their wines) finding it... They had to accelerate the harvest to avoid botrytis caused by the abundant rain during the harvest. This is a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho and the remaining 5% Graciano and Mazuelo, fermented in old oak vats with their yeasts and matured in neutral American oak barrels for no less than five years. It's elegant and nuanced, developed but young for its age, with a seamless palate and very fine tannins, with energy and light. It has 13.5% alcohol, a pH of 3.3 and 6.7 grams of acidity, notable parameters of freshness. 80,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2022.

Vinous 94 Points | The 2014 Viña Bosconia is 80% Tempranillo with 10% Garnacha, 5% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo from the El Bosque vineyard in Haro, Rioja. Garnet in hue, it opens with cassis, cola and oak-driven aromas. The palate is youthful and smooth, with well-integrated tannins, black fruit and anisette at the finish. Still growing, it’ll develop greater complexity with more time in bottle.

Delight in the elegance of A Margaine 1er Cru Le Brut NV, a refined Champagne that perfectly balances freshness and finesse. Bursting with vibrant notes of citrus, green apple, and delicate brioche, its fine bubbles and crisp acidity make every sip celebratory. Ideal as an aperitif or paired with seafood and light dishes, this NV Champagne embodies the artistry of the Premier Cru vineyards and the house’s dedication to excellence.

Expert Review - Vintage 2014

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points by Roger Voss | This is a ripe wine, already approaching maturity. It has rich tannins and a generous structure. The wine is full with plenty of black fruits and balanced acidity. Black currants and spices mingle easily. The wine will be ready to drink from 2018. 

Winemaker Description

On the nose, the wooden, toasted, and spicy notes stand out. Ripe red fruit notes are present. On the palate, it has a frank, very round onset with a beautiful evolution towards acidity. The red fruits are present throughout the tasting, and the tannins are well blended and round. An elegant and smooth wine.

Cotes de Castillon, with its rolling steep slopes of hills and valleys created by the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, is one of the most recognized and fashionable appellations of Bordeaux with several prominent winemakers purchasing châteaux here.

Its vineyards are located east of Saint-Émilion and south of Fronsac which proves to be advantageous as it provides excellent exposure to the sun, and the climate is slightly warmer and drier than most of Bordeaux. It is devoted solely to the production of red wine, and the dominant grape varieties planted are Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

The wines are known for being concentrated, fruity, and typified by strong black currant notes. They also have a good price to quality ratio and can be enjoyed young and age just as tastefully.

Cotes de Castillon is also committed to environmentally-sound practices and sustains one of the highest concentration of growers using either organic, biodynamic, or self-sustaining farming techniques. 

Where battlefields once roared, vineyards now thrive. Cotes de Castillon is steeped in history and was actually named after the last battle ‘Castillon la Bataille’ that ended the Hundred Years’ War in 1453 between England and France.

Roman ruins, old churches, and stunning châteaux provide a colorful glimpse into the region’s rich past.

Château Moya is a certified organic estate located in the Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux appellation, next to Saint Émilion in Bordeaux, France. The 20-acre property is located on a clay-limestone hill some 230 feet above the valley floor with a stunning 360-degree panoramic view.

Its pristine vineyards are tended to by the same team managing Château Gaby, and between 30,000-40,000 bottles are produced annually since the first vintage in 2009.

Château Moya has been certified organic by ECOCERT since the 2013 vintage.

Organic wines have become increasingly popular in Bordeaux and around the world not only for the longevity of soil and environmental factors but also for the quality of the wine.

Recognizable for its opulence, finesse, and well-balanced persistence, Château Moya is one of the finest Bordeaux wines in the region.



Frog's Leap · Napa Valley, California · 2023

Frog's Leap is one of Napa Valley's most celebrated organic estates, farming without pesticides or herbicides since 1981 and dry-farming their vineyards to encourage deep root systems and natural vine stress. Their Shale and Stone Chardonnay takes its name from the ancient fractured shale soils beneath their Napa Valley vineyards — a terroir that imparts a striking minerality and stony tension rarely found in California Chardonnay. Vinified entirely in concrete with extended sur lie aging, this wine is crafted without new oak, allowing the fruit and soil character to speak for themselves.

The 2023 vintage in Napa Valley delivered ideal growing conditions — warm days, cool nights, and a late harvest that built exceptional concentration while retaining the freshness that defines this bottling. In the glass, spiced apples and ripe pears open alongside hints of citrus peel and raw almonds. The palate is taut yet generous — medium to full-bodied with a compact, lightly phenolic texture, vivid acidity, and a long, lingering mineral finish. Drink now or hold through 2028.

"Spiced apples and pears with hints of citrus peel and raw almonds on the nose. Tense and juicy with medium to full body and a compact, lightly phenolic texture. Vivid and lingering."
— James Suckling, 91 Points.

"The 2023 Chardonnay Shale and Stone, from Truchard in Carneros, is all class. Apricot, lemon confit, marzipan, tangerine peel, tropical fruit and a kiss of French oak grace this exotic, dynamic Chardonnay from Frog's Leap. Airy and gracious, with stunning balance, the 2023 is fabulous in every way." - 96 Points VINOUS

• Producer: Frog's Leap Winery, Rutherford, Napa Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Farming: Certified Organic, Dry-Farmed
• Vinification: Concrete aging, extended sur lie, no new oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Spiced apple, ripe pear, citrus peel, raw almond, stony minerality, vivid acidity
• Food Pairings: Grilled halibut, roast chicken, oysters, goat cheese, vegetable risotto

Napa Chardonnay at its most honest — organic, unoaked, mineral-driven, and built to last.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | While this wine is currently quiet, it shows a lot of promise. Mouthwatering and long on the palate, it offers attractive citrus pith, delicate white flowers and fresh almonds.

Winemaker Description 

A fresh, floral bouquet with notes of acacia flowers, this dry white wine is well-balanced with lively white fruit flavors. Harvested from Italy’s premier regions for the cultivation of Pinot Grigio, the grapes are vinified in stainless steel and released soon after the vintage to preserve the integrity of the fruit and maintain the naturally fresh character of the variety. Alverdi Pinot Grigio is an excellent aperitif.

About the Sake

Don’t let the Futsushu (everyday sake) classification fool you — Kirinzan Classic takes the concept of daily sake to new heights. While most breweries focus on showcasing premium ginjo styles, Kirinzan takes immense pride in this entry-level expression, crafting it with the same care and precision as their finest bottles.

Made from Gohyaku Mangoku and Koshi Ibuki sake rice polished to 65% — beyond the requirements for even the premium Honjozo grade — all rice is sourced directly from small farmers in the local agricultural cooperative, none farther than five miles from the brewery. Brewed with soft Niigata mountain water in the house style: dry, clean, light-bodied, and beautifully balanced.

Tasting Notes

Dry and clean with notes of hazelnut and toasted rice, a gentle minerality, and a crisp, refreshing finish. Light-bodied and food-friendly — never competing with a dish, only enhancing it.

Serving

Versatile and approachable — excellent served chilled, at room temperature, or gently warmed (nurukan).

Food Pairing

The ultimate food sake — pairs beautifully with sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, tempura, yakitori, ramen, and izakaya-style dishes.

Product Details

• Producer: Kirinzan Brewery
• Style: Futsushu (Everyday Sake)
• Rice: Gohyaku Mangoku & Koshi Ibuki
• Polishing Ratio: 65%
• Sake Meter Value: +6 (Dry)
• Acidity: 1.3
• ABV: 15–16%
• Region: Niigata Prefecture, Japan
• Format: 720ml

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

Exudes flavors and aromas of ripe apples, pears, peaches, and citrus, with floral aromas. Its slight sweetness makes it a perfect match with aged cheeses as well as chicken, fish and pasta in cream sauces.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

Pale straw with green hues. A lifted nose showing refreshing herbal notes, snow pea, melon, and fresh guava. Light-bodied and refreshing with typical Marlborough flavors of passion fruit, gooseberry, and grapefruit. A pleasing herbaceous thread leads to a long, lingering finish. Enjoy with seafood, chicken served over grilled vegetables/salad or simply on its own.

Mirabeau X Coteaux D'Aix Rosé 2025 750ml

Mirabeau is one of Provence's most celebrated rosé producers — a family estate founded by Stephen and Jeany Cronk in the heart of the Var, with a mission to bring the effortless elegance of Provençal rosé to the world. The "X" cuvee is their Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence expression: a step up in complexity and terroir character, blending the classic Provence rosé grapes into a wine of real finesse and food-friendliness. Screwcap sealed for freshness and convenience.

The 2025 vintage delivers everything you want from a great Provence rosé — pale, precise, and aromatic, with a crisp, inviting palate and a finish that lingers with delicate red fruit and floral complexity. A wine built for the table as much as the terrace.

"Strawberries and cream aromas with some peach and mint leaf. Crisp and inviting palate, with leafy complexity and a lovely strawberry and cherry delicacy on the finish." — Decanter, 90 pts

• Producer: Mirabeau, Cotignac, Var, Provence, France
• Appellation: Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence AOC
• Blend: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault (traditional Provence rosé blend)
• Vintage: 2025
• Style: Dry, pale Provençal rosé — screw cap
• Tasting Notes: Strawberry, cream, peach, mint leaf, cherry, leafy complexity, crisp acidity, delicate finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, summer salads, ratatouille, goat cheese, charcuterie, or simply on its own in the sun
• Decanter: 90

The quintessential Provence rosé for every occasion — Mirabeau X is the bottle that makes any moment feel like a summer afternoon in the south of France.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

James Suckling 91 Points | This has plum, orange peel and tobacco on the nose, alongside some sun-dried tomato. It’s savory, juicy and fresh on the palate with medium body and sleek tannins. Delicious now.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

This biodynamic, sulfur-free Carménère immediately captivated us: immediately very present, enormously aromatic, a true powerhouse! On the nose, green pepper, black pepper, coffee, cloves, and other spices, with grassy, vegetal notes. A very successful blend of fruit and complex vegetal aromas. Initially astringent and fully dry, the palate displays powerful cherry fruit with tobacco, cocoa, and pepper, then becomes increasingly smooth, soft, and supple.