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Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Winemaker Description 

Expert Review

Burghound Allen Meadows 93 Points | Much more layered aromas are comprised by notes of wet stone, citrus confit, Granny Smith apple and pretty spice wisps. The dense but sleek and highly energetic larger-bodied flavors display impressive power and length on the compact, austere and impeccably balanced finale. This is excellent and a wine that is built to repay extended keeping.

Quick Expert Summary - Vintage 2022

 🍇 Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy) 92 Points Described the fruit as having a refined character and complexity, with a savory red berry note, plenty of energy, and good acidity.

🍷 Vinous (Neal Martin) 91 Points Noted a well-defined bouquet with black cherries and wild strawberry fruit; the palate is medium-bodied, smooth and sensual toward the finish.

📜 Burghound (Allen Meadows) 90 PointsPraised the attractively spicy nose and the "slightly better verve" on the palate, which finishes with fine-grained tannins.

✨ Wine Spectator (Bruce Sanderson) 90 Points Found it to be a tangy red with spicy cherry, pomegranate, and blood orange flavors, calling it nicely integrated and juicy.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Allen Meadows writes:  An attractively spicy nose freely offers up aromas of dark pinot fruit, Savigny-style earth, violet and an interesting hint of white pepper. There is slightly better verve suffusing the lightly stony middleweight flavors that also possess a caressing but punchy mouthfeel on the lingering finale that is noticeably finer thanks to the fine-grained tannins. This too could be approached young though at least a few years of cellaring should be beneficial.  - Burghound 90

Bruce Sanderson writes:  A tangy red, this features spicy cherry, pomegranate, blood orange and toasty oak flavors. Nicely integrated, with a whisper of dusty tannins lining the finish. This is juicy, with the fruit resonating on the aftertaste. Best from 2027 through 2040.   - Wine Spectator 90

Neal Martin writes:  The 2022 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Lavières 1er Cru has a well-defined bouquet with black cherries and wild strawberry fruit, pure and refined. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe red fruit and light pastille notes, smooth and sensual towards the finish. Give this three or four years in bottle.  - Vinous 91

St. Michael-Eppan Sanct Valentin Sauvignon — Südtirol Alto Adige, Italy 2024

St. Michael-Eppan is one of Alto Adige’s most celebrated cooperative wineries, uniting 320 winemaking families across 390 hectares of vineyards in Appiano — the most important wine-growing municipality on the South Tyrolean Wine Road, at the doorstep of the Dolomites. Since 1989, their Sanct Valentin Sauvignon has been the crown jewel of the estate: selected from the finest vineyards at the foot of the Mendel Massif, crafted by legendary kellermeister Hans Terzer, and recognized as one of Italy’s most consistently award-winning white wines. The 2024 earned 95 points from Decanter, 92 from James Suckling, and 91 from Wine Enthusiast — a triple-score performance that places it among the finest Sauvignon Blancs produced anywhere in the world.

The nose is explosive and captivating: sweet mango, peach, apricot, gooseberry, elderflower, ripe redcurrant, and a herby lift of mint and peppery rocket. On the palate, the wine is full and precise — crisp acidity, a smooth, elegant body, and a long, mineral-laced finish with notes of lime blossom, green apple skin, and salt crystals. It is a Sauvignon of extraordinary intensity and grace, proving that delicacy and power are not mutually exclusive. Decant briefly or serve well chilled.

Decanter 95 — "Explosive intensity: sweet mango, peach, apricot, mint and peppery rocket. Big on the palate with mouthwatering acidity and infinite length. A full-on version of the extrovert style, created by legendary kellermeister Hans Terzer." (Vintage 2024). 

James Suckling 92 — "Spiced white fruit, elegant gooseberries and sea salt. Delicious and lightly saline, with a medium body and a tactile, mealy finish." (Vintage 2024). 

Wine Enthusiast 91 (Jeff Porter) — "Floats like lime blossom on mountain breeze. Zippy precision meets stony depth while green apple skin’s fierce tartness and salt crystals create tension. Proves delicacy and intensity aren’t mutually exclusive." (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: St. Michael-Eppan Winery, Appiano, Südtirol Alto Adige, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Südtirol Alto Adige DOC
• Vineyards: Selected sites at the foot of the Mendel Massif, Appiano
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Winemaker: Hans Terzer (legendary kellermeister)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Mango, peach, apricot, gooseberry, elderflower, lime blossom, mint, green apple, salt crystals, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled asparagus, seared scallops, goat cheese, herb-crusted fish, light pasta with pesto

A 95-point Alto Adige Sauvignon from one of Italy’s most celebrated white wine estates — Sanct Valentin is the benchmark for what mountain-grown, mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc can deliver.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Kristen Bieler writes:  For a demi-sec, this leans toward the dry, savory end of the spectrum. There are a lot of layers and substance to this, with a savory thread of green herbs and bitter white tea weaving through elderflower, quince and apple flavors, while gentle tannins provide a solid frame. Cool river stone and pink peppercorn notes line the finish, encased in smoke and salt, with length and a lot of depth. The toasty cedar notes will integrate with more time in bottle. Drink now through 2037. 740 cases made.  - Wine Spectator 93

Stuart Pigott Writes:  This off-dry Vouvray has terrific depth and a lovely creaminess that’s hard to resist, but it’s tightly wound and needs some time for the aromas to unfurl. With some aeration, red apple and honeysuckle notes emerge. Long, very clean finish that’s pretty dry thanks to the bright acidity. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.  - James Suckling 93

Rebecca Gibb MW writes:  The 2023 Vouvray Demi-Sec Le Mont boasts a residual sweetness (20g/l) that brings a sense of tenderness and amplitude to a terroir that's big on precision and tension. The flint component in the soil and the natural freshness of the 2023 vintage provide persistence and momentum. Pure and tender, there’s a distinctive spearmint-like cooling sensation on the long finish.  Drinking 2024 to 2038.  - Vinous 94

Domaine Pierre Martin Sancerre Chavignol Organic 2025 is a classically styled, terroir-driven Sancerre from one of Chavignol's most respected growers. Pierre Martin — who built his domaine from just 4 hectares of vines in this celebrated village — farms organically at high altitude, coaxing extraordinary precision and minerality from soils of caillottes (chalky white pebbles) and terres blanches (clay and limestone). The result is a Sauvignon Blanc of uncommon focus and elegance.

The nose is persistent and aromatic: intense lemon verbena, fresh-cut grass, white grapefruit, and a layered, stony minerality that speaks directly to the chalky Chavignol terroir. On the palate, the wine is mouthwatering and tightly structured, with bright acidity, a lacy, detailed texture, and a long, luminous finish that lingers with citrus zest and mineral precision. Old vines — 30+ years — and indigenous yeast fermentation in stainless steel preserve every nuance of this exceptional site.

Chavignol is widely regarded as the finest village in all of Sancerre, and Domaine Pierre Martin is among its most authentic voices — traditional in method, uncompromising in quality, and certified organic in the vineyard.

Serve well chilled. A natural partner for Loire Valley goat cheeses (Crémant, Crottin de Chavignol), oysters, grilled fish, and herb-driven dishes. Equally compelling on its own.

Producer Description 

The wine is a crimson-hued garnet red. The nose reveals red berry fruit aromas combined with delicate floral notes of peony and fresh mint. A dense and muscular attack leads into a full-bodied mid-palate whose juicy and expressive substance is underlined by well-rounded, silky tannins. The long and balanced finish lingers on notes of spice, especially white pepper.

Expert Reviews - 2021 Vintage

James Suckling 95 Points | This is surprisingly full-bodied and round, reflecting the warmth and sunny exposure of the vineyard around the chateau. Tangy and vivid with currants, fresh flowers and plenty of energy and length. Delicate yet ripe. 77% cabernet sauvignon, 19.5% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 0.5% petit verdot. Needs two or three years to come together completely. Drink after 2027.

Jeb Dunnuck 91-93 Points | The second wine of this great estate, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton De Mouton Rothschild checks in as 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19.5% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, brought up in 50% new barrels. It has plenty of class and charm, with pure Cabernet notes of cassis, graphite, tobacco, and damp earth. These carry to a medium-bodied, balanced, elegant, seamless wine with fine tannins, integrated oak, and a great finish.

Vinous 90-92 Points |  Representing 40% of the total volume, a little more than usual, the 2021 Le Petit-Mouton, is aged in 50% new oak. A very Cabernet nose with conspicuous graphite scents infusing the black fruit, a little Earl Grey in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy opening, not amazingly complex but well balanced with fine tannins and just a pinch of black pepper on the finish. Classic in style, it should give 15-20 years of drinking pleasure.

Decanter 92 Points | Beautifully fragrant strawberries and red cherries, just so perfumed and appealing, really a very lovely nose drawing you in. An excellent Petit Mouton in 2021; serious intensity here but also such a liveliness as well as creaminess. It has weight and layers while having fruit intensity and a core of aromatics. There's a softness and delicacy in terms of the tannins and frame - beguiling - but a real base of concentrated blue, red and black fruits - strawberries, red cherries and blackcurrants. You get the stony tones and the clove on the finish but this feels round, expansive and approachable. It's uber glamorous, still with freshness and lift. A gorgeous wine with lots going on! 0.5% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.73pH. 14% press wine.

Wine Advocate 89-91 Points | Since Mouton-Rothschild itself this year derives exclusively from the two plateaus that always make up the core of the blend, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton benefits from the inclusion of parcels that often make it into the grand vin. Exhibiting aromas of crème de cassis, mint, cigar wrapper, violets and espresso roast, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and fleshy, with a rich core of fruit, powdery tannins, succulent acids and a persistent finish. Characterful and beautifully made, I wonder if I'm being a little severe with my score?

Petra Hebo — Toscana IGT, Maremma 2023

Near the ancient village of Suvereto, on the ferrous hills of the Val di Cornia looking out over the Tyrrhenian Sea, the estate of Petra has carved out one of Tuscany’s most compelling terroirs. Nestled in the spectacular nature of the Maremma — home to the majestic cork oaks that have defined this landscape for centuries — Petra produces wines of genuine coastal character: fresh, mineral, and alive with the energy of the sea. The Hebo is their benchmark Toscana rosso: a Merlot-led blend of 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese, and 10% Cabernet Franc, it is soft, round, and beautifully expressive. Vinous awarded the 2023 vintage 90 points, praising its “pretty inner freshness that lingers.” 

The color is a bright, luminous ruby red. The nose opens with an herbal-laced bouquet of rose petals, black cherries, violets, blueberries, peonies, and wet stones — with mineral hints and nuances of earthy shrub. On the palate, it is fresh and pleasantly fruity, with gentle, well-tailored tannins, a cascade of citrus-infused red berry fruit, and blue and purple inner florals that linger on a long, spry finish.

Vinous 90 — "Soft and round, with fresh acidity and a cascade of citrus-infused red berry fruit. Long yet gentle and spry — a pretty inner freshness that lingers."

• Producer: Petra, Suvereto, Val di Cornia, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Franc
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Rose petal, black cherry, violet, blueberry, peony, wet stone, mineral, citrus-infused red berry, earthy shrub
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb, bistecca, wild boar ragù, pasta with meat sauce, aged Pecorino, charcuterie

Coastal Tuscany at its most joyful and precise — Petra’s Hebo is the benchmark for what Maremma can deliver at this price.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Luis Gutierrez of the Wine Advocate 96 Points | The 2021 Pegaso Granito has a very clean nose and comes through as very approachable, with an elegant personality. They picked all grapes together (there were some unripe grapes) and fermented it all together. The wine has a medium-bodied palate, the granularity of the tannins is extremely small, and it has a very fine mineral sensation. It has incredible elegance and finesse, with lifted aromatics, high-pitched, acute, fine-boned and with the frontal tannins from the granite soils.

Producer Description 

Cebreros is both the name of the village and the appellation of origin in the southeast of the province of Ávila, within the greater Sierra de Gredos region, the mountainous area located on the continental divide of Spain. The region is unspoiled, wild, rustic, full of energy and light, and as authentic as it gets. It is a transitional zone where northern Spain gives way to southern Spain. The wines from the Sierra de Gredos mountains to the west of Madrid (aka Vinos de Madrid) have finally begun to claim their rightful place alongside other top wine regions focused on producing world-class garnacha. For many insiders, the region is now leading the conversation about this Mediterranean garnacha grape, now understood to be indigenous to Spain. 

Whole clusters are picked by hand in small boxes, with a strict selection made in the vineyard. The clusters are de-stemmed, crushed, and fermented spontaneously with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks and large neutral French oak foudres. The wine is then aged for 18 months in new and used 600L French oak barrels sourced from different forests.

Critic Notes

Charles Curtis MW writes:  hint of exotic Asian spice. The palate has a deft balance between density, moderately firm tannins, and a lively freshness that leads to a pleasantly lingering finish—lovely wine. The grapes come from the domaine holding of just under a half-hectare located under Clos de la Roche; they are partially destemmed and carefully fermented before ageing in mainly used casks. Age five years before opening.  Drinking 2028 to 2055.  - Decanter 95

Neal Martin writes:  The 2022 Morey-Saint-Denis Les Millandes 1er Cru has one-third whole bunches. Brambly red fruit, sous-bois and light chalky scents on the nose that feels quite strict at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins. There’s mainly black fruit here, plus cedar and graphite, rather "serious" towards the finish. Fine, but it will require bottle age.  Drinking 2026 to 2042.  - Vinous 90-92

Allen Meadows writes:  A discreet application of wood sets off the softly spicy and earthy aromas of violet, lavender plum and red currant. The powerful and markedly more concentrated broad-shouldered flavors exude a subtle minerality on the succulent yet very firmly structured finale that exhibits excellent length. Patience will be necessary but it should be well-rewarded in time as this is packed with development potential.  Drink 2024+  - Burghound 93

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | "Juicy and intense, with concentration to the passionfruit, pineapple, Key lime and kumquat flavors at the core. Details of toasted green tea, lemon thyme and makrut lime leaf add aromatic intensity, with a touch of crunchy sea salt on the finish. Drink now. 8,259 cases made, 207 cases imported." 

Winemaker's Notes:

Te Koko 2023 is initially reticent on the nose, but with time in the glass opens to reveal notes of just-ripe mango, lemon verbena and juicy sun-warmed lemon. The palate is concentrated and mouthwateringly complex. The sun-warmed impression continues, with notes of meadow hay, preserved citrus, and white nectarine, with layers of salted almond and a gentle smoky minerality leading through to a long and focused finish. 

Producer Description 

Akutain’s Rioja Reserva — a blend of Tempranillo with a touch of Garnacha and Viura — is fermented in a combination of stainless steel and fiberglass tanks, then aged for 35 months in predominantly neutral American oak with a small amount of French barrels. Mid-Ruby in color, this Reserva possesses a beautiful bouquet of ripe berry fruit mixed with notes of dried herbs, tobacco and rose petals.

The full-bodied palate displays concentrated flavors of black cherry, cooked-down strawberries and earth balanced by velvety, textured tannins. The finish exhibits enduring depth and complexity. The perfect companion to grilled, roasted or braised meats and game.

Campeador Rioja Reserva — Rioja, Spain 2020

Campeador is a name rooted in Spanish heritage — a tribute to El Cid, the legendary Castilian knight whose title "El Campeador" meant champion and master of military arts. The Rioja Reserva lives up to that name: a classically structured, age-worthy red built from an equal blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha, with Graciano adding depth and aromatic complexity. Aged to Reserva standards in oak and bottle, the 2020 vintage delivers the kind of rich, nuanced Rioja that rewards patience and pairs beautifully with the table.

The nose is warm and inviting: dark cherry, blackberry, dried plum, vanilla, and cedar, with earthy undertones of leather and dried herbs from the oak aging. On the palate, the wine is medium-to-full-bodied with a supple structure, well-integrated tannins, and a long, spiced finish of red fruit, tobacco, and toasted oak. Tempranillo brings the backbone and dark fruit; Garnacha adds roundness and warmth; Graciano contributes freshness and aromatic lift. Together they create a Reserva of genuine character and depth.

"With an equal presence of Tempranillo and Garnacha, Campeador Reserva highlights the very best of both, creating a range of rich nuances that is bound to please." — Winemaker’s Notes

• Producer: Campeador, Rioja, Spain
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa, Reserva
• Region: Rioja, Spain
• Varietal: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano
• Aging: Reserva — minimum 3 years, including oak and bottle aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, dried plum, vanilla, cedar, leather, dried herbs, tobacco, toasted oak
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, aged Manchego, mushroom risotto

A classically structured Rioja Reserva at an honest price — Campeador is the benchmark for what Tempranillo and Garnacha, aged to Reserva standards, can deliver from one of Spain’s greatest appellations.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 95 Points | All the ripeness of this very warm vintage, married to wonderful freshness that gives this the light-footedness of a great dancer. Mostly white fruit, but just a hint of fresh pineapple. Long, silky finish. Drink or hold. (2018). 

Robert Parker 93+ Points | The 2018 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese is discreet yet deep and complex on the elegant and spicy nose that exhibits very fine stone fruit aromas. Round, lush and piquant on the palate, this is a crystalline, piquant, persistently salty and stimulating Himmelreich with fine tannins on the finish that add grip and a very light, food-friendly astringency that moderates away the sweetness. Still young, this is a Spätlese to serve with food in 10-15 years. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | This has all of the elements of a great spätlese, with pronounced acidity supporting the ripe peach, yellow apple, mango and spruce flavors, while hints of vanilla and piecrust add to the complexity. Still a bit intense, but this should develop beautifully with age, allowing the minerality to become more prominent. Best from 2022 through 2038. (2018).

Experience the Richness of Anapea Village Saperavi

Winemaker Description 

Light orange with the notes of pink color. Aromas: Well-expressed aromas of barberry and rose, with the raspberry notes on the second nose.

Taste: Mouth is soft and rich with well-expressed dried barberry aromas, citrus, strawberries and earthy minerality.

Medium-bodied dry wine with balanced tannins, backed by lively acidity and long finish. 

Memo Summary Notes

A bold, "natural" red wine from the Kakheti region of Georgia. Produced by the husband-and-wife team Gocha and Khatia, it is crafted using 8,000-year-old traditional methods.

Food Pairings

• Meats: Grilled lamb, beef fillet, or traditional Georgian Chakapuli (herbed lamb stew).

• Game: Excellent with duck, goose, or pheasant.

• Vegetarian: Rich mushroom dishes or roasted root vegetables.

• Cheese: Pairs well with mature, hard cheeses.

Introduction to Saperavi

Saperavi is a stunning red wine that originates from Georgia, one of the oldest wine regions in the world. The Anapea Village Saperavi 2019 showcases the intense fruity flavors and vibrant character expected from this remarkable varietal. It features rich aromas of dark berries, plums, and spices, providing a delightful sensory experience. This wine is not only delicious but also has a beautiful deep color that captivates the eye, making it a perfect choice for special occasions.

Flavor Profile and Pairing

The flavor profile of Anapea Village Saperavi is deep and complex. You will taste luscious dark fruits, like cherry and blackberry, accompanied by hints of oak and a touch of earthiness. This blend makes it an excellent companion to a variety of foods. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rich stews, and hearty cheeses. So, whether you're planning a dinner party or a casual meal, this Saperavi will enhance your dining experience.

Why Choose Anapea Village Saperavi

Choosing Anapea Village Saperavi 2019 means selecting quality, tradition, and authenticity. This wine is crafted with care from grapes grown in the fertile soils of Georgia, where the climate is perfect for producing exceptional wines. It's an ideal option for wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Plus, the sustainable practices used in its production reflect a commitment to quality and the environment. Therefore, you're not just enjoying a glass of wine; you're embracing a piece of Georgian heritage.

Anterra Pinot Grigio | Terre Siciliane | 2024 | 1.5 Liter Magnum

Sun-drenched and effortlessly elegant — the Anterra Pinot Grigio is grown using 100% sustainable viticulture in the dry, warm heart of Central-Western Sicily, where the variety takes on a uniquely decisive character while retaining its signature freshness. The name Anterra — "ancient land" in Italian — pays homage to Sicily's millennia-long winemaking heritage.

This 1.5 Liter Magnum is the perfect format for the table: generous, impressive, and built for sharing. Expect a pale lemon pour with aromas of tropical fruit, green apple, fresh peach, and delicate floral notes with a whisper of almond. On the palate, it's crisp, balanced, and clean — a crowd-pleaser that punches well above its price.

Food Pairing

Excellent with appetizers, flavorful soups, poultry, and seafood — particularly shellfish.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Tropical fruit, green apple, peach, floral notes, hint of almond
• Palate: Crisp, light-bodied, fresh and elegant
• Finish: Clean, refreshing, pleasantly dry

Wine Details

• Grape: 100% Pinot Grigio
• Region: Terre Siciliane, Sicily — Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Size: 1.5 Liter Magnum
• Closure: Screw Cap
• Farming: 100% Sustainable

Gamay | Morgon, Beaujolais / France
Vintage: 2024  |  Size: 750ml
Organic · Natural Fermentation · Unfiltered

Jean Foillard is a legend of the natural wine movement — a pioneering figure in Morgon who helped define what Beaujolais could be when farmed with care and made without compromise. His family tends fourteen hectares in the heart of Morgon with a non-interventionist philosophy: organic viticulture, spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, whole-bunch vinification, and bottling unfiltered. The result is Gamay that is silky, structured, and unmistakably of its place.

The Corcelette cuvée comes from one of Morgon’s most prized sites. Grapes are harvested late and hand-selected in the vineyard, then fermented as whole bunches for 2–3 weeks before aging 6–8 months in oak barrels. The 2024 is wonderfully characterful — brambly red fruit, hints of sous-bois and wilted rose petal on the nose, with impressive delineation. The palate is fresh and vibrant, with gentle grip, fine powdery texture, and a focused, slightly herbaceous tea-leaf finish. Very classy, and built to reward patience over the next four to six years.

“The 2024 Morgon Corcelette has a wonderful, characterful bouquet with brambly red fruit, hints of sous-bois and wilted rose petal. Impressive delineation. The palate is fresh and vibrant with gentle grip on the entry. Fine structure… focused. Very classy.”
— Vinous, 90 Points

“Silky and seductive, with notes of rose petals, red berries, and stones. With just the right amount of tannin and acidity, and lots of class, it is perfect for all occasions.”
— Tom Wolf, Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant

Pairs with: Roast chicken, duck confit, charcuterie, mushroom dishes, or a simple platter of French cheeses.

Winemaker Description

This delicious, versatile wine begins with aromas of blackberry, rose hip, dried cranberries and hints of boysenberry followed by notes of violets and crushed spices.

On the palate, the wine begins with a soft, dense, lush, tannin structure supported by flavors of red berry fruit, subtle acidity and a long flavorful, vanilla finish. 

Don Melchor Puente Alto Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon — Maipo Valley, Chile 2022 750ml

Chile’s first icon wine and a true benchmark among the world’s finest labels, Don Melchor is the singular expression of the Puente Alto Denomination of Origin — a vineyard planted at the foot of the Andes Mountains on the northern bank of the Maipo River at 650 meters elevation. The Don Melchor Vineyard spans 125 hectares, with vines averaging 38 years of age, rooted in the poor gravel soils and balanced temperatures that define this legendary Cabernet Sauvignon terroir. The 2022 blend is composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot, aged in French oak barrels with 78% new oak.

The 2022 vintage delivered exceptionally even temperatures throughout the growing season, with stable conditions from veraison through ripening and cooler nights that preserved freshness and aromatic precision. Winemaker Enrique Tirado describes it as a wine of “intense aromatic expression dominated by red fruit and floral notes followed by blackcurrants and blackberries — smooth on entry, evolving into mouth-filling flavours with tremendous concentration, great energy, fine textures, and a long, expressive finish.”

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 99 Points: Blackcurrants, cassis, and graphite on the nose. Pure and fragrant. Full-bodied with superb density and tannins that are so polished — the texture is like touching a silk ball. The finish is very long and compact, and it will come together beautifully with time in the bottle.

Tim Atkin 97 Points: Fresh yet rich and concentrated. Youthful, focused, and well structured — a seamless cuvée showing delightful purity and elegance, top notes of cedarwood and graphite, layered tannins, and a core of cassis, vanilla spice, and black cherry.

Vinous 97 Points: Complex aromas of currant, blackberry, ash, mint, and a subtle floral tone. Dry, rich, and moderately juicy with precisely calibrated tannins and clear fruit imparting intensity and agility. A more nuanced and energetic edition of Don Melchor.

• Producer: Viña Don Melchor, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Puente Alto Denomination of Origin, Maipo Valley
• Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
• Aging: French oak barrels, 78% new
• Vineyard: 125 hectares at 650m, vines averaging 38 years old
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, cassis, graphite, cedarwood, black cherry, mint, floral, silk tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Exceptional aging potential — best from 2027 onward; decant if opening now
• Best Paired With: Prime ribeye, braised short ribs, roast lamb, aged hard cheeses, truffle dishes

Chile’s most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon — Don Melchor 2022 is a wine of extraordinary concentration, elegance, and Andean terroir that belongs in any serious cellar.

Winemaker Notes

Aromas of red fruits with flavors of fragrant cherry, black pepper, and notes of wood. Hints of raspberry lead to a lingering finish.

About the Wine

The David & Nadia Topography Pinotage 2024 is a definitive example of the "New Wave" South African wine movement. David and Nadia Sadie are leading figures in the Swartland region, celebrated for their minimal-intervention, terroir-focused approach that reimagines Pinotage as an elegant, fresh, and cerebral wine rather than a heavy or rustic one.

This is Pinotage for people who think they don’t like Pinotage.

Tasting & Pairings

Fragrant cherry, raspberry, black pepper, and subtle wood notes. Fresh, elegant, and medium-bodied with a lingering finish. Serve at cellar temperature or with a slight chill.

• Grilled lamb chops with Ras el Hanout — North African spices complement the peppery fruit.
• Pulled pork or smoked duck — the wine’s freshness cuts through rich, smoky meats.
• Mushroom risotto or roasted squash — savory herbs and earthy flavors are a natural match.
• South African braai (BBQ) — the traditional pairing, and for good reason.

Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | This is a widely available, nonvintage blend of 54% Syrah, 15% Petite Syrah, 14% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and 7% Zinfandel. Aromas of cara-melized black fruit, oak and black pepper lead into an extremely rich palate that's loaded with vanilla, caramel, fudge and black cherry.

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. 

Winemaker Description 

With deep expertise in the world of Pinot Noir, Dan Kosta's admiration for the grape began at an early age, taking sips from his father's glass of Burgundy and listening to stories about wine around the dinner table.

His fascination continued as he became a wine buyer, sommelier, and vintner known for producing highly-renowned, world-class wines. Dan's lifelong passion for Pinot Noir is evident in Admire, the latest creation from his native Sonoma Coast. 

This wine is 100% Pinot Noir, sourced entirely from the Sonoma Coast appellation. Harvested in early September, this Pinot Noir was aged in 100% French Oak, 30% new for 9 months. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Admire by Dan Kosta Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 is a standout choice for those who love high-end Pinot Noir but want to stay in a more approachable price bracket. Dan Kosta (co-founder of the legendary Kosta Browne) launched this label to capture the elegance of the Sonoma Coast with more immediate accessibility.

Food: Its bright acidity makes it perfect for herbed chevre (goat cheese), roasted duck, or mushroom risotto.

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

Strikingly rich in color and extract, the 2018 Rubicon is unquestionably a precocious, hedonistic wine. The exotic, well-knit aromas and flavors include ripe cassis, allspice, star anise, vanilla and black licorice. Upon entry, this full-bodied wine envelops the palate with its luxurious concentration and supple, silky tannins, supported by vibrant freshness from the balanced acidity and perfectly-integrated French oak. Very long and expansive in the finish, the 2018 Rubicon will be memorable for decades to come.

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2018

James Suckling 97 Points | Subtle and complex red with blackberry, black truffle, sweet tobacco and mahogany. Highlights of lavender and violets. Full-bodied and very tight with finesse and tension. Very polished, fine tannins. Long finish. Delicious already, but best after 2022.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | The 2018 Rubicon is based on 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Classy notes of crème de cassis, lead pencil shavings, freshly crushed stone, and cedar. Beautifully balanced with gorgeous tannins, integrated acidity, and outstanding length. Give this classic beauty 4–5 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following 15–20.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Alluring aromatically, with restrained yet complex notes of mulberry, loganberry and anise. Refined structure drapes nicely on the finish with a mineral hint. Drink now through 2035.

Gato Negro Balance White Wine Blend — Chile

Gato Negro is one of Chile’s most recognized wine brands, known for delivering honest, flavorful wines at everyday prices. With Balance, they’ve done something genuinely useful: crafted a white wine blend that delivers the full flavor of their classic style at just 5.5% alcohol and 62 calories per glass. No compromise on taste — just a lighter, more flexible wine for any occasion. Whether you’re pacing yourself at dinner, cutting back without cutting out, or simply looking for a wine that fits your lifestyle, Balance White is the answer.

The wine is fresh and fruit-forward, with the easy-drinking, approachable character that has made Gato Negro a household name. Light on alcohol, generous on flavor — a guilt-free glass that doesn’t taste like one.

• Producer: Gato Negro, Chile
• Appellation: Chile
• Varietal: White Wine Blend
• Alcohol: 5.5%
• Calories: ~62 per glass
• Closure: Screw Cap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh, fruit-forward, light-bodied, easy-drinking
• Best Paired With: Salads, light seafood, grilled vegetables, soft cheeses, casual entertaining

Full flavor, half the guilt — Gato Negro Balance White is the everyday low-alcohol wine that actually delivers.

CK Mondavi Pinot Grigio — California (1.5L Magnum)

CK Mondavi is California’s go-to for approachable, everyday wines that deliver genuine varietal character at an unbeatable price. This 1.5L Magnum — equivalent to two standard bottles — is the perfect format for entertaining, al fresco dining, and any occasion that calls for a generous, crowd-pleasing pour. Light-bodied, crisp, and endlessly refreshing, it is the kind of white wine that earns a permanent spot in the fridge.

The wine opens with inviting aromas of wildflowers, ripe peaches, and pears. On the palate, fresh tropical flavors unfold with a touch of spice, a lively medium body, and a crisp, clean finish. Bright acidity keeps it refreshing from the first sip to the last.

"Aromas of wildflowers, peaches and pears. Fresh, tropical flavors with a touch of spice and a crisp, refreshing finish." — Winemaker Notes

• Producer: CK Mondavi, California
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Pinot Grigio
• Style: Light-bodied, crisp, fruit-forward California Pinot Grigio
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)
• Tasting Notes: Wildflowers, peaches, pears, tropical fruit, touch of spice, crisp finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shrimp, light pasta, fresh salads, soft cheeses, summer appetizers

An everyday California Pinot Grigio in a crowd-pleasing Magnum format — CK Mondavi delivers reliable, fruit-forward character at an exceptional value.

Founded in 1980 by Koerner and Joan Rombauer — whose great-aunt Irma Rombauer wrote the legendary Joy of Cooking — Rombauer Vineyards has spent four decades building one of Napa Valley's most beloved wine brands. Drawing on Koerner's German Rheingau heritage and a deep love of food and wine, the family established a winery known for its fruit-driven, generous style and exceptional hospitality. Today, Rombauer sources from mountain and valley vineyards across Napa, Sonoma, the Sierra Foothills, and the Santa Lucia Highlands.

The Rombauer Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, sourced from both mountain and valley estate vineyards. A labor-intensive 30% of the fruit is barrel-fermented — a technique that deepens color and layers fruit and oak nuances with remarkable complexity. Almost entirely estate-grown and optically sorted, it opens with mixed red and black cherries, dried sage, and bay leaf on the nose. On the palate it is plush, full-bodied, and easy to drink, with a comfortable, juicy character and moderately firm tannins. The quintessential Napa Cab for immediate pleasure.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• James Suckling — 93 Points: "A plush, fresh and juicy red that's so comfortable and easy. A large 30% of the fruit is barrel fermented, a labor intensive practice that helps deepen the color and improve the layering of fruit and oak nuances. Full-bodied and moderately tannic."
• Wine Advocate — 90 Points: "Almost entirely estate grown and optically sorted. Mixed red and black cherries dominate the nose, accented by hints of dried sage and bay leaf. Full-bodied, plush and easy to drink."

Wine Details

• 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc
• Napa Valley, California — mountain & valley estate vineyards
• 30% barrel-fermented | Optically sorted
• Vintage: 2022 | 750ml
• Pairs with: grilled ribeye, lamb chops, aged cheddar, hearty pasta

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.