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Columbia Crest Grand Estates | Merlot | 2020 | 750ml | Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA

Rated 90 Points – Vinous | 90 Points – James Suckling

An outstanding value from Washington State's Columbia Valley, Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot delivers dark fruit complexity, soft tannins, and a creamy finish at an everyday price. Vinous calls it "an excellent entry to the value category of Washington State Merlot."

• Winery: Columbia Crest
• Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Varietal: Merlot
• Vintage: 2020
• Closure: Screw Cap

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Dark plum, herb, blackberries, tobacco, mint chocolate, dark cherries, and a kiss of vanilla
• Palate: Round and juicy with tart wild berry fruits, chewy blueberry skin, mocha, and soft ripe tannins
• Finish: Bold and structured with notes of vanilla, raspberry, and lingering minerality

Critical Acclaim

• 🏆 Vinous – 90 Points: "Darkly floral and earthy with hints of animal musk and crushed blackberries. Juicy acids enliven its tart wild berry fruits. Leaves a mark of minerality along with chewy blueberry skin concentration and hints of mocha."
• 🏆 James Suckling – 90 Points: "Blackberries, tobacco, mint chocolate and dark cherries, with a kiss of vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied with soft, ripe tannins and a creamy finish. Drink now."

Food Pairings: Blue cheese, duck, beef, veal, and dark chocolate.

Willamette Valley Pinot Noir from One of Oregon’s Founding Estates

Adelsheim Vineyard is one of Oregon’s original pioneering estates, founded in 1971 and instrumental in establishing the Willamette Valley as one of America’s great Pinot Noir regions. The 2023 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir — 100% Pinot Noir from a broad array of origins and clones, matured nine months in 19% new French oak — is a hallmark of Adelsheim’s classic, elegant house style: fresh, balanced, and beautifully textured, with the seamlessly integrated tannins and lively acidity that define great Willamette Valley Pinot.

Expert Reviews

• Wine Advocate — 91 pts: "Bursting with scents of bramble fruit preserves, cranberry sauce, holiday spice and earth. The medium-bodied palate is concentrated and spicy with well-integrated oak, soft dusty tannins, refreshing acidity and a long, nuanced finish."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 pts: "Refreshing and zesty, with notes of fresh cherries, red flowers, and bright stemmy spices. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and a light astringency, with a mouthwatering finish. Drink over the coming 6–7 years."

67Wine Staff Pick

Bart Hopkins, 67wino.shop: "A very pretty expression of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Plenty of aromatic complexity with layered fruit and a lovely earthy character. Raspberries, spiced plums and baking spices supported by elegant tannins that linger on the long finish. Drinking perfectly right now."

Winemaker Notes

With its broad array of origins and clones, this 100% Pinot Noir displays aromas of cocoa, pomegranate, and raspberry on the nose and palate, with a light touch of nutmeg, cinnamon, and allspice. True to Adelsheim’s house style, it is elegantly textured with seamlessly integrated, silky, polished tannins.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Producer: Adelsheim Vineyard (est. 1971)
• Vintage: 2023
• Aging: 9 months, 19% new French oak
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Highly versatile — exceptional with cedar-planked salmon, roasted duck with cherry reduction, herb-roasted chicken, mushroom risotto, and earthy lentil dishes.

King Estate · Willamette Valley Pinot Noir · 2023

From Oregon’s Willamette Valley, King Estate’s 2023 Pinot Noir brings together layered fruit and the freshness that makes this grape so versatile at the table. Pour a glass alongside roast salmon or mushroom risotto and let its spice and forest-floor notes come forward.

Winemaker Description

A beautifully complex wine with elegant fruit and structure. Classic Pinot Noir aromas and flavors of dark fruit — black raspberry, marionberry, blueberry, and ripe dark cherry — joined by accents of black tea, clove, vanilla, toast, orange zest, and forest floor. Supple tannins and bright acidity on the palate lead to a coating finish with lingering spiciness.

King Estate · Winemaker Description

Expert Review · 2023 Vintage

“Lively and refreshing, this Pinot bursts with bright cherry, grapefruit peel, and delicate floral aromas. The medium-bodied palate is crisp and racy, with crunchy red fruit and a firm mineral backbone. Flavorful finish.”

James Suckling · 91 points

About King Estate

Founded in 1991, King Estate is based in the southern Willamette Valley near Eugene, Oregon. The winery emphasizes organic farming and Pinot Noir with a balance of fruit, acidity and structure.

Pairing & Details

Try it with roasted salmon, duck breast, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, charcuterie or aged Gruyère.

• Producer: King Estate Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Size: 750ml

Tapi is a certified sustainable Marlborough producer crafting vibrant, fruit-driven Sauvignon Blanc from the celebrated Wairau Valley — the heartland of New Zealand's most iconic white wine. The Wairau Valley's free-draining alluvial soils, long sunny days, and cool maritime nights create ideal conditions for Sauvignon Blanc of exceptional aromatic intensity, natural freshness, and the lively tropical character that has made Marlborough famous the world over. The 2025 vintage benefited from excellent growing conditions, producing wines of purity and vibrant expression.

Vinification is focused on preserving the natural aromatics and freshness of the fruit. Careful temperature-controlled fermentation captures the full aromatic spectrum of the Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc — from zesty citrus to ripe tropical fruit — while maintaining the bright, cleansing acidity that defines the style.

The 2025 Tapi opens with an inviting nose of passionfruit, lime, lemon, and blackcurrant. On the palate, the wine is juicy, fresh, and fruit-driven, with ripe tropical fruit, crisp acidity, and a mouthwatering, refreshing finish with a lingering mango aftertaste. Bright, lively, and endlessly thirst-quenching.

"Juicy, fresh and fruit-driven, this expresses notes of lemons, papayas and limes, following through to a medium body with crisp acidity. The delicious finish has a mango aftertaste. Sustainable. Drink now."
— James Suckling, 91 Points. (Vintage 2025). 

"A distinctive style, with chive flower, celery salt and toasted herb notes that add a savory element to the core of lemon, grapefruit and lime on a mouthwatering frame."
— Wine Spectator, 89 Points — Best Values. (Vintage 2025). 

Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Vineyard: Wairau Valley
Vintage: 2025
Certification: Certified Sustainable
Closure: Screwcap
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Grilled prawns, oysters, white fish with lemon, fresh goat cheese, asparagus, and citrus-dressed salads. Serve well chilled.

Diatom Chardonnay — Santa Barbara County 2024

Greg Brewer's Diatom project is built on a single, radical idea: subtraction. No oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation. No extended aging. Just 100% Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County, fermented and aged six months in stainless steel, stripped of everything that typically softens, butters, or blurs the grape. What remains is electric — a wine that tastes like the soil and the sea. The name itself is a clue: diatomaceous earth, the plankton fossil-rich geology beneath Santa Barbara's vineyards, is the terroir this wine is designed to express. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 94 points and called it "a no-brainer purchase." Wine Spectator followed at 93, James Suckling at 93, Wine Enthusiast at 92, and Wine Advocate at 90. Across the board, the verdict is the same: this is one of California's most precise and honest Chardonnays.

The nose is vivid and pure: exotic citrus, minty herbs, oyster shell, honeydew rind, lime candy, and a whisper of sea spray. On the palate, it is sleek and taut — ripe pear, ginger, pomelo, and brisk lime zest coiled around a mouthwatering thread of acidity. Salinity and minerals run through the finish alongside springtime blossoms and a lingering kick of melon pith. It gains weight and richness with time in the glass without ever losing its electric freshness.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 • Wine Spectator 93 • James Suckling 93 • Wine Enthusiast 92 • Wine Advocate 90 — "A no-brainer purchase for those who love Santa Barbara County Chardonnay."

• Producer: Diatom (Greg Brewer), Santa Barbara County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Santa Barbara County
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation and aging — no oak, no malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 6 months, stainless steel
• Style: Unoaked, crisp, mineral-driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, oyster shell, lime zest, sea spray, pear, ginger, pomelo, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled halibut, ceviche, fresh goat cheese, sushi

A 94-point unoaked Chardonnay at an honest price — Diatom is the benchmark for what Santa Barbara Chardonnay can be when nothing gets in the way.

McManis Family Vineyards · Cabernet Sauvignon · Lodi AVA 2024

Family-owned McManis farms sustainably in Lodi AVA, sourcing most of this Cabernet’s fruit there and the rest from sustainable Central Valley vineyards. Aged 4–6 months in new and used French and American oak, the wine keeps its fruit-forward character while gaining structure.

Expert Review · 2024

Wine Enthusiast · 90 Points | This wine is concentrated, with lush aromatics of dark blackberries, boysenberries, cinnamon and orange zest on the nose. Supple acidity marks the finish. The palate is supple and rich, but not saturated, with lingering notes of mulberry, cassis and red currant confiture, layered with mocha, cigar and silky tannins. — Tonya Pitts

Winemaker Description

Dark garnet in color with juicy flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and black cherry. Most of the fruit comes from the Lodi AVA, with the remainder sourced from sustainable vineyards throughout the Central Valley. Harvested in late September, the Cabernet Sauvignon undergoes 7–9 days of fermentation on the skins before being pressed and finishing fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged on new and used French and American oak for 4–6 months, adding structure and a subtle layer of complexity to the fruit-forward profile.

Food Pairings

Grilled burgers, barbecue ribs, roasted chicken, pasta with meat sauce, mild cheddar and pizza.

At a Glance

• Producer: McManis Family Vineyards
• Vintage: 2024
• Region: Lodi AVA, California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Farming: Sustainable
• Closure: Screwcap
• Aging: 4–6 months in French and American oak
• Size: 750ml

A fruit-forward Lodi Cabernet, rich with dark berry, cassis and mocha notes, balanced by silky tannins and oak.

Badia a Coltibuono · Chianti Classico DOCG · Estate Organic · 2024 · 750ml

The Producer

Badia a Coltibuono is one of Chianti Classico's most storied estates, with roots in an 11th-century monastery in Gaiole in Chianti, dating back to 1051. For six generations the Stucchi Prinetti family has carried that story forward, farming organically for more than 40 years with a deep respect for their land. Their Estate Chianti Classico is a benchmark expression of Sangiovese: honest, structured and unmistakably Tuscan.

The Wine

Sangiovese-led, with small amounts of Colorino, Ciliegiolo and Canaiolo. Expect a bright ruby color with violet highlights and a layered nose of iris, violet, tobacco, black pepper and marasca cherry. The palate is balanced and tightly knit, with crunchy, powdery tannins, juicy acidity and a clean mineral backbone, finishing warm and persistent.

Expert Review (2024 Vintage)

"Strong fragrances of cherry, flowers and fine spices predict beauty shown in the deep, harmonious and vibrant sip. Its communicative ability is a convivial delight to be shared."
Decanter, 92 points (2024 vintage)

Pairings & Serving

Grilled bistecca, wild boar ragù, aged pecorino or pappardelle with meat sauce. Serve around 60–64°F.

Specs

• Producer: Badia a Coltibuono, Gaiole in Chianti
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Varietals: Sangiovese, Colorino, Ciliegiolo, Canaiolo
• Farming: Certified organic
• Size: 750ml

Certified organic Chianti Classico from one of Tuscany's most trusted historic estates. Structured, soulful and built for the table.

Josh Cellars California Chardonnay — California 2024

Josh Cellars has become one of America's most beloved wine brands — and for good reason. Founded in honor of winemaker Joseph Carr's father Josh, the label is built on a simple philosophy: craft wines that are approachable, delicious, and made with genuine care. The California Chardonnay is their flagship white, sourced from select California vineyards and crafted to strike the perfect balance between bright fruit, subtle oak, and refreshing acidity. No single flavor overpowers another — just a clean, well-made Chardonnay that delivers every time.

The nose exudes aromas of tropical fruits and citrus married with subtle oak notes. On the palate, this is a beautifully balanced wine: bright citrus and honey up front, with hints of juicy peach, lemon oil, and crème brûlée on the mid-palate. Medium-bodied with a smooth, lingering finish — simply delicious and endlessly versatile at the table.

"Crafted with care so that no single flavor overpowers another — this wine is simply delicious." — Josh Cellars Winemaker

• Producer: Josh Cellars, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, citrus, honey, peach, lemon oil, crème brûlée, subtle oak
• Style: Medium-bodied, bright acidity, touch of oak
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, roasted chicken with fresh vegetables, butter and herb dishes, soft cheeses, light pasta

California Chardonnay at its most approachable — Josh Cellars delivers bright, balanced, and genuinely delicious every single time.

DeLoach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay — California 2024 750ml

DeLoach Vineyards has been crafting expressive California wines since 1975, with a philosophy rooted in sustainable farming and a commitment to letting the fruit speak. The Heritage Reserve Chardonnay is part of DeLoach’s California Series — a bright, fruit-forward expression that bucks the trend of heavy, oak-driven California whites. Instead, the 2024 focuses on freshness, balance, and approachability, making it an ideal everyday white for a wide range of occasions and cuisines.

The 2024 opens with nicely integrated notes of orange blossom and creamy honeydew melon. On the palate, tropical flavors of pineapple, papaya, and mango take center stage, delightfully balanced with bright acidity and a long, clean finish that makes this wine as versatile at the table as it is enjoyable on its own.

“Nicely integrated notes of orange blossom and creamy honeydew melon. Tropical flavors of pineapple, papaya and mango — delightfully balanced with bright acidity and a long finish.” — DeLoach Winemaker

• Producer: DeLoach Vineyards, California, USA (est. 1975)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: Bright, fruit-forward, lightly oaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Orange blossom, honeydew melon, pineapple, papaya, mango, bright acidity, long clean finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shrimp, chicken, light pasta, soft cheeses, Asian-inspired dishes, summer salads

Fresh, tropical, and beautifully balanced — DeLoach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay 2024 is California sunshine in a glass at an exceptional price.

67Wine Somm Series Cava Gran Reserva Guarda Superior Brut Nature — Penèdes, Catalonia, Spain 2018

The 67Wine Somm Series is a project created by our in-house buyer and sommelier, Oscar Garcia Moncada — a meticulously curated collection of high-quality, value-driven wines selected to represent the best of what the wine world has to offer at an accessible price. Each label in the series features artwork inspired by iconic New York City neighborhoods and landmarks. The Gran Reserva Guarda Superior is Oscar's prestige Cava selection: a 2018 vintage Brut Nature crafted from the three classic white varieties of El Penèdes — Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada — fermented separately and aged a minimum of 48 months sur lattes in the traditional Champenoise method. Guarda Superior is Cava's highest quality tier, reserved for wines aged at least 18 months — this wine more than doubles that requirement, delivering a level of complexity and autolytic depth that rivals wines at several times the price.

The color is pale straw yellow, brilliant and clear, with a constant release of fine bubbles forming a delicate crown on the surface of the glass. The nose is extremely fine and fresh: the special aroma of extended cellar aging gives it a personality of its own — croissants, almonds, white fruit, salinity, and minerality. On the palate, varietal flavors mingle beautifully with the character of the aging process, achieving a perfect balance of fine acidity and elegance. The bubbles are very small and delicate, the finish long and harmonious. A Cava of genuine distinction.

"A blend of the three white grape varietals traditionally used in El Penèdes. Fermented separately, then aged 48 months sur lattes using the Traditional Method. Extremely fine and fresh — croissants, almonds, white fruit, salinity and minerality. Very elegant." — Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67Wine Somm

• Producer: 67Wine Somm Series, curated by Oscar Garcia Moncada
• Region: Penèdes, Catalonia, Spain
• Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Cava DO — Guarda Superior (highest quality tier)
• Blend: 70% Xarel·lo, 20% Macabeo, 10% Parellada
• Method: Traditional Method (Mètode Tradicional)
• Aging: 48 months sur lattes
• Style: Brut Nature (zero dosage)
• Serve: 6°C
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Croissant, almond, white fruit, salinity, minerality, fine persistent bubbles, long harmonious finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Oysters, tapas, seafood, grilled fish, soft cheeses, roast chicken, dry desserts

Oscar's prestige Cava pick — 48 months sur lattes, zero dosage, Guarda Superior — the 67Wine Somm Series Gran Reserva 2018 is Cava at its most serious and compelling.

San Felice Chianti Classico — Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany 2022

San Felice is one of Chianti Classico’s most storied and respected estates, farming over 270 hectares in the Castelnuovo Berardenga sub-zone — the southernmost and warmest corner of the appellation, known for producing wines of particular richness, structure, and savory depth. The Chianti Classico is the estate’s benchmark expression: a blend of Sangiovese with the rare indigenous varieties Colorino and Pugnitello, vinified to capture the vibrant, earthy, food-friendly soul of traditional Chianti at an exceptional price point. The 2022 vintage earned 91 points from Wine Enthusiast and 90 from Vinous, and is drinking beautifully now.

The nose is defined by cool earthiness: flint, wild herbs, tart blackberries, mushroom, and balsamic. On the palate, it is vibrant and open-knit — cherries, black cherry, blackberry, crushed flowers, and orange peel are framed by dusty, chewy tannins, notable acidity, and a flinty, iron-inflected finish that anchors the wine with real Chianti character. A textbook food wine of the highest order.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “Cool earthiness defines the nose, with aromas of flint, wild herbs and tart blackberries, and umami notes of mushroom and balsamic. Dusty, chewy tannins and notable acid emphasize that flinty earthiness.”

Vinous 90 — “Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, spice, new leather and a kick of orange peel. Soft, open-knit. Drink it over the next few years.”

Wine Spectator 89 — “Black cherry and blackberry flavors with accents of violet, earth and iron. Firm tannins infuse the finish. Drink now through 2027.”

• Producer: San Felice, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Blend: Sangiovese, Colorino, Pugnitello
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Flint, wild herbs, blackberry, mushroom, balsamic, cherry, crushed flowers, orange peel, iron finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Pasta Bolognese, lasagna, wood-fired pizza, grilled lamb with rosemary, roast turkey, aged Pecorino, charcuterie

Sangiovese, Colorino, Pugnitello, and 91 points from Wine Enthusiast — San Felice Chianti Classico is the Tuscan food wine that always earns its place at the table.

Catena Malbec — Mendoza, Argentina 2024

Bodega Catena Zapata has been the defining force in Argentine fine wine for decades — a trailblazer in high-altitude viticulture since the 1990s, farming vineyards up to 5,000 feet in the Andes foothills where cooler temperatures, intense UV radiation, and dramatic diurnal temperature swings produce Malbec of uncommon elegance, depth, and freshness. The Catena Malbec is the house’s benchmark expression: a wine that has introduced generations of drinkers to the world-class potential of Mendoza Malbec, earning 93 points from the Wine Advocate (prior vintage) and consistently delivering far more than its price suggests.

The color is deep ruby-violet with brilliant clarity. The nose is expressive and inviting: dark plum, blackberry, violet, turned earth, and subtle spice. On the palate, it is juicy and precise — vibrant acidity and a savory, sturdy core frame the dark fruit, with a high-toned, lingering finish of earthy depth and freshness. Elegant, fruit-forward, and endlessly food-friendly.

Wine Advocate 93 — (Prior Vintage 2023). High-altitude, elegant Mendoza Malbec from one of Argentina’s most celebrated estates. Dark plum, blackberry, violet and earthy depth with vibrant acidity and a savory, lingering finish.

• Producer: Bodega Catena Zapata, Mendoza, Argentina
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Mendoza
• Varietal: 100% Malbec
• Style: High-altitude, elegant & fruit-forward
• Altitude: Up to 5,000 feet in the Andes foothills
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark plum, blackberry, violet, turned earth, subtle spice, vibrant acidity, earthy lingering finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Grilled skirt steak, roasted lamb, beef empanadas, hearty stews, aged cheddar, blue cheese, Manchego

Thirty years of high-altitude mastery, 93 points from the Wine Advocate, and priced for every night of the week — Catena Malbec is the Argentine benchmark that never disappoints.

Huia Sauvignon Blanc — Marlborough, New Zealand 2025

Huia Vineyards is one of Marlborough’s most respected organic and biodynamic estates — founded in 1994 by Claire and Mike Allan with the conviction that the region’s finest expression comes from small-scale, unhurried winemaking rooted in the land. Today, under owner Tom Pegler and winemaker Josh Lee — whose career spans Greywacke, Dog Point, and biodynamic estates across Europe — that conviction is stronger than ever. Every grape is grown organically on estate vineyards and sourced from trusted Marlborough growers who share Huia’s values. The 2025 earned 92 Points from Wine Enthusiast and 91 Points from Wine Advocate, and overdelivers at its price point vintage after vintage.

The nose is captivating: pink grapefruit, lime blossom, crystallized ginger, cantaloupe, passionfruit, and honeydew melon, with fresh basil-like herbs and something flinty behind. On the palate, the wine is pure and lively — Granny Smith apple, gooseberry, key lime, and a touch of pie crust and hazelnut, carried by bright, tangy acidity and a quietly creamy texture. The finish is refreshing, balanced, and utterly delicious. It is elegant, aromatic, and deeply satisfying — the kind of biodynamic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc that disappears fast.

"There’s a lovely waxy, honey-flecked tropical and citrus fruit to start, with fresh basil-like herbs and something more toasty and flinty behind. The palate shows the variety’s bright, tangy acidity, tempered by a quietly creamy texture. Food friendly and priced for every day drinking." — Christina Pickard, Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points. (Vintage 2025). 

• Producer: Huia Vineyards, Marlborough, New Zealand (est. 1994)
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pink grapefruit, lime blossom, crystallized ginger, cantaloupe, passionfruit, gooseberry, Granny Smith apple, hazelnut, creamy texture, energetic acidity
• Best Paired With: Seafood, sushi, oysters, poultry, salads, spicy stir fry, goat cheese

Marlborough’s benchmark biodynamic Sauvignon Blanc at an honest price — Huia is the standard for what certified organic, small-scale New Zealand winemaking can deliver.

Lindeman's Bright Chardonnay Bin 65 — South Eastern Australia 2024

Lindeman's is one of Australia's most storied wine producers, with a winemaking heritage stretching back to 1843. The Bin 65 Chardonnay is their flagship white — a wine that has introduced millions of drinkers to the approachable, fruit-forward style that Australian Chardonnay does so well. Sourced from premium vineyards across South Eastern Australia, it is crafted for immediate enjoyment: soft, smooth, and consistently reliable vintage after vintage.

The nose offers inviting aromas of ripe melon, white peach, and a touch of citrus. On the palate, it is medium-to-full bodied with a soft, creamy texture, gentle spice hints, and a long, balanced finish. Clean and crowd-pleasing, it is the kind of everyday Chardonnay that over-delivers at its price point.

"A delightful medium-to-full bodied Chardonnay with excellent varietal flavors of melon and peach. The palate is soft and smooth with spice hints across the long, balanced finish." — Lindeman's Winemaker

• Producer: Lindeman's, South Eastern Australia
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: South Eastern Australia
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Medium-to-Full Bodied, Unoaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Melon, white peach, citrus, soft spice, creamy finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2026
• Best Paired With: Grilled chicken, seafood pasta, soft cheeses, Caesar salad, light cream sauces
• Serve: Well chilled, 45–50°F

Australia's best-selling Chardonnay for good reason — Lindeman's Bin 65 is the benchmark for approachable, everyday white wine value.

Buehler Vineyards Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2022

A family-owned estate established in 1978, Buehler Vineyards has quietly built one of California’s most respected reputations for quality and value — wines that consistently overdeliver at their price points, vintage after vintage. Their Russian River Valley Chardonnay is a standout expression of cool-climate winemaking from one of Sonoma’s most celebrated appellations, where the influence of the Pacific Ocean and morning fog creates ideal conditions for Chardonnay of genuine elegance and complexity.

Crafted from two exceptional vineyard sources — Wood Vineyard on River Road and River Vineyard on East Side Road — the blend brings together the floral, mineral, and lime character of River Vineyard with the lush peach and apricot richness of Wood Vineyard. Sur-lie aging adds toasty brioche and graham cracker notes with a creamy, velvet-textured mouthfeel that elevates the wine well above its price point.

Abundant floral and stone fruit aromas on the nose. The palate is plush and smooth — lemon meringue, peach preserves, grilled pineapple, and subtle spice — with toasty brioche richness, bright natural acidity, and a long, clean finish with marmalade and spice accents.

Wine Spectator — 88 Points

“Lemon meringue, peach preserves and grilled pineapple mingle with spice, toasted brioche and marmalade notes on a plump and smooth frame.”

Food Pairings

Roasted chicken, lobster with butter, grilled halibut, creamy pasta, and soft-ripened cheeses.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma County, California
Vintage: 2022
Aging: Sur-lie
Format: 750ml
Score: 88 pts Wine Spectator

Aveleda · Minho · Vinho Verde DOC · Minho · Portugal · 2024

Aveleda is one of Portugal’s most celebrated wine estates — a historic quinta in the Minho region that has been producing Vinho Verde for generations. The Minho is Aveleda’s flagship expression of the appellation: a proprietary white blend crafted to capture everything that makes Vinho Verde irresistible — pale, slightly fizzy, vibrantly fresh, and built for the moment. At $12.99, it is one of the great value whites in the world. Vegan. Screwcap. 90 points from James Suckling.

Clear pale yellow in the glass, the 2024 opens with an elegant, crisp bouquet of green apple, lime, lemon, and peach with a whisper of seashell minerality. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and refreshing — slightly fizzy, saline, and vibrant, with a clean citrus finish that makes every sip feel like the first. Versatile and effortless, it is perfect for the simplest moments in life.

“This saline white has aromas of lemons, peaches and seashells. It’s medium-bodied and simple but refreshing. Vegan.”
— James Suckling · 90 Points. (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Aveleda, Quinta de Aveleda, Minho, Portugal
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Vinho Verde DOC, Minho, Portugal
• Blend: Proprietary white blend
• Style: Dry white — slightly fizzy, saline, citrus-fresh
• Closure: Screwcap
• Vegan: Yes
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, lime, lemon, peach, seashell minerality, slight spritz, saline finish
• Pairings: Cod fish cakes, marinated olives, empanadas, grilled fish and vegetables, seafood, aperitif

JS:90 · Vinho Verde DOC — saline, slightly fizzy, and endlessly refreshing from one of Portugal’s great historic estates. One of the world’s best value whites.

Matchbook Wine Company | Chardonnay Estate Bottled | Dunnigan Hills | 2023

Dunnigan Hills is one of California's best-kept secrets — a warm, inland appellation in Yolo County where Matchbook has farmed estate vineyards for decades. The combination of hot days, cool nights, and well-drained soils produces Chardonnay with a distinctive personality: tropical fruit richness balanced by genuine freshness. This estate-bottled 2023 is a signature expression of that terroir, blended with a small addition of Verdejo that lifts the wine with a bright thread of minerality. In the cellar, 60% malolactic fermentation adds a creamy, supple texture and a whisper of butterscotch, while careful oak aging layers in vanilla without overwhelming the fruit. The result is a plump, satisfying Chardonnay with a crisp, lingering finish — classic California golden straw in the glass, and a mouthful of pineapple, mango, and melon on the palate.

• Appellation: Dunnigan Hills, Yolo County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay with a touch of Verdejo
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• MLF: 60% malolactic fermentation
• Style: Tropical, creamy, fruit-forward with a crisp finish

Critical Acclaim

Wine Enthusiast — Tonya Pitts | 89 Points: Lush, with aromas of white peach, nectarine, Golden Delicious apple, pineapple, creamy vanilla, and clove, and supple mineral notes on the finish.

Tasting Notes

Pineapple, mango, melon, white peach, and nectarine on the nose. Creamy mid-palate with butterscotch and vanilla from oak aging, brightened by a lift of minerality from the Verdejo. Plump mouthfeel with a crisp, fresh fruit finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roast chicken with herb butter, turkey, or creamy pasta dishes.
• Seafood: Grilled lobster, shrimp scampi, or pan-seared halibut.
• Cheese: Brie, Gruyère, or a mild aged cheddar.

James Suckling 95 Points | A juicy and delicious wine with aromas of black cherries, walnuts, flint, graphite and matchsticks. Medium-bodied with creamy and refined tannins and a pretty finish. Inky aftertaste with some iodine. 60% merlot and 40% sangivoese. Drink or hold. 

Winemaker Description

Lucente is the result of a careful selection of the estate’s vineyards particularly suited for the production of a fruity and very pleasant wine. Like Luce, it is made from Sangiovese and Merlot, with Merlot prevailing in the blend.

About Luce della Vite

Luce della Vite — “Light of the Vine” — is one of Tuscany’s most celebrated Super Tuscan estates, born from a visionary partnership between the Frescobaldi family and Robert Mondavi in 1993. Based in Montalcino, the Tenuta Luce estate produces wines that bridge the Old and New World: blending the structure and earthiness of Sangiovese with the richness and suppleness of Merlot. Lucente is the estate’s second wine — sharing the same vineyards and winemaking philosophy as the flagship Luce, but crafted for earlier enjoyment and exceptional everyday value. At under $25, it offers a genuine window into one of Italy’s most prestigious estates.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, wild boar ragù, truffle pasta, roasted lamb, and aged Pecorino Toscano. Decant 30 minutes before serving.

Product Details

• Producer: Luce della Vite (Tenuta Luce — Frescobaldi)
• Appellation: Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
• Blend: Merlot & Sangiovese (Merlot dominant)
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Medium-to-full-bodied, fruit-forward Super Tuscan blend
• Drink: Now–2030
• Format: 750ml

Coppo · Barbera d'Asti DOCG · Camp du Rouss · 2023 · 750ml

The Producer

Founded in 1892 in Canelli, in the heart of Piedmont's Asti hills, Coppo is one of the region's historic family houses, famous for aging its wines in underground cellars carved into the hillside. Camp du Rouss is its signature take on Barbera: generous, polished and built for the table.

The Wine

Ripe, dark-skinned fruit, culinary spice and new leather lead the way, with a lift of menthol. The palate is firmly structured and chewy, offering dried Morello cherry, raspberry jam, licorice and espresso over fine-grained tannins, with Barbera's trademark fresh acidity keeping it lively.

Expert Review (2023 Vintage)

"Round and supple in texture, this fluid red boasts cherry, blackberry and plum flavors, with flashes of floral and chocolate notes. Warm spice accents inform the finish. Drink now through 2030."
Wine Spectator, 90 points

Pairings & Serving

Pasta and beans, risotto with porcini mushrooms, or chicken chasseur. Serve slightly cool, around 60–62°F.

Specs

• Producer: Coppo
• Wine: Camp du Rouss
• Appellation: Barbera d'Asti DOCG
• Region: Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Varietal: 100% Barbera
• Size: 750ml

An easy weeknight hero with enough depth for the dinner party. Drink now through 2030.

Melini Chianti Borghi d'Elsa — Chianti DOCG, Tuscany 2024

Melini is one of Tuscany's oldest and most historic wine estates — founded in 1705 in Gaggiano, in the heart of the Chianti zone, and a pioneer in the development of the fiasco bottle that made Chianti famous around the world. Today, Melini farms select vineyard sites along the south-facing slopes of the Elsa River valley, where well-exposed hillsides reach elevations of over 1,200 feet. These high-altitude sites, with their excellent sun exposure and cooling elevation, are ideal for Sangiovese — producing wines of genuine fragrance, elegance, and typicity. Borghi d'Elsa is the estate's classic Chianti expression: a traditional blend led by Sangiovese, crafted to deliver the authentic character of the appellation at an exceptional everyday price.

The nose is intense, fragrant, and elegant: blackberries and raspberries intertwined with violet and Florentine iris — the hallmark floral lift of high-altitude Tuscan Sangiovese. On the palate, it is dry, full, and harmonious with a slightly tannic structure and an elegant aftertaste of toasted almond and fruits of the forest. Clean, food-friendly, and quintessentially Chianti.

"Intense, fragrant and elegant aromas of blackberries and raspberries, with violet and Florentine iris notes. Dry, full, harmonious and slightly tannic, with an elegant aftertaste of toasted almond and fruits of the forest." — Melini Winemaker

• Producer: Melini, Gaggiano, Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chianti DOCG
• Blend: 85% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo Nero, 3% Malvasia, 2% Trebbiano
• Vineyards: South-facing slopes of the Elsa River valley, 1,200+ ft elevation
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, violet, Florentine iris, toasted almond, fruits of the forest, slightly tannic finish
• Style: Dry, medium-bodied, food-friendly
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled meats, poultry, lamb, goat, sheep's milk cheese, pasta with tomato sauce, pizza

Classic Chianti from one of Tuscany's oldest estates — Melini Borghi d'Elsa 2024 is fragrant, food-friendly, and one of the great everyday Italian reds under $10.

Winemaker Description

Frank on the palate with tastes developed in the bottle. Good body. Smooth and silky, the carbonic content keeps it fresh and lively, providing a long finish. 

Expert Review

The Wine Enthusiast 87 Points by Michael Schachner | Clean white-fruit aromas include a note of pastry. This brut is tight and crisp on the palate, with flavors of green apple, lime and green herb that lead to a fresh finish. 

Bogle Vineyards · Clarksburg · California · 2023

There is something quietly extraordinary about a vine that has been growing in the same spot for sixty, seventy, eighty years. It has survived drought and frost, boom years and lean ones, and in doing so has learned to give less — and mean more. Bogle Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel is the direct expression of that patience: a wine drawn from head-trained vines planted decades ago in the rich delta soils of Clarksburg, where the Sacramento River keeps the summers honest and the nights cool.

The nose leads with cranberry, raspberry, and ripe red cherry, then deepens into marionberry pie and warm baking spices — cinnamon, clove, a hint of vanilla. On the palate it’s generous and round, with the kind of fruit-forward richness that Zinfandel does best, balanced by enough structure to carry it through a long, satisfying finish.

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Clarksburg, California
• Varietal: Zinfandel
• Vine Age: 60–80 years (head-trained, old vine)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, raspberry, red cherry, marionberry pie, baking spices, vanilla
• Pairings: BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, mushroom ragù

Old vines, honest fruit, and a price that makes it an easy yes — this is California Zinfandel at its most satisfying.

Winemaker Description 

With light refreshing flavors of citrus and green apple, it’s no surprise that it comes from the #1 Italian Wine in America.

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro — Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Tuscany 2021

Ruffino is one of Tuscany’s most storied and historic estates — a winery whose Riserva Ducale Oro holds a singular place in Italian wine history. In 1927, the inaugural Riserva Ducale vintage was crafted as a homage to the wine-loving Duke of Aosta. Two decades later, in 1947, Ruffino commemorated an exceptional vintage by introducing the Riserva Ducale Oro — heralding the concept of Gran Selezione ahead of its time and creating what would become the world’s most recognized Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. Today, one out of every three bottles of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione opened in the world is a Riserva Ducale Oro. The 2021 earned 95 Points from James Suckling and 90 Points from Wine Enthusiast, and is matched only by its potential for decades of aging.

The nose is complex and distinctive: red cherries, violet, blackberry, plum, eucalyptus, licorice, and balsamic nuances, with old leather, wild herbs, pepper, and intriguing notes of cinnamon, clove, chocolate, and coffee. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and lush with dense, velvety tannins, gleaming flavors of blackberry, bergamot, and wild mint, crisp yet integrated acidity, and a long, peppery, savory finish. It is elegant, precise, and deeply satisfying — a Gran Selezione built for the cellar but impossible to resist now.

"An elegant and forthright Gallo Nero with a precise nose of red cherries, eucalyptus and licorice with balsamic nuances. A lush and supple palate with a full body and dense, velvety tannins that are precise and spicy. Crisp yet integrated acidity in the finish. Savory aftertaste. Drink or hold." — James Suckling, 95 Points. (Vintage 2021). 

"The nose opens savory, with aromas of old leather, hot tar, wild herbs and pepper, then adds the sweetness of dark berries and cherries. Gleaming flavors of blackberries, bergamot and wild mint define the palate, before that bitter citrus element ignites into a peppery heat on the finish." — Danielle Callegari, Wine Enthusiast, 90 Points. (Vintage 2021). 

• Producer: Ruffino, Pontassieve, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Blend: Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: Extended barrel & bottle aging — violet, cherry, chocolate & spice complexity
• Closure: Cork
• Size: 750ml
• Drink: Now or cellar for decades
• Tasting Notes: Red cherry, violet, blackberry, plum, eucalyptus, licorice, bergamot, wild mint, chocolate, coffee, peppery finish
• Best Paired With: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, aged Parmigiano, braised lamb, truffle risotto

Tuscany’s most iconic Gran Selezione at an honest price — Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro is the benchmark for what historic, cellar-worthy Chianti Classico can deliver.

Clos Henri · Estate Sauvignon Blanc · Marlborough · New Zealand · 2025

Clos Henri is the Marlborough outpost of the legendary Bourgeois family of Sancerre — and it shows in every glass. Planted at high density on a single estate in the Central Wairau Valley, where Otiran and Waimaungan glacial soils converge into three distinct terroirs — Wither Clay, Broadbridge Clay, and Greywacke Stones — this is organic Sauvignon Blanc with a French soul and a New Zealand heartbeat. The 2025 Estate earned 94 points from James Suckling and 93 from Wine Advocate, cementing its place among Marlborough’s most sophisticated whites.

The 2025 vintage was shaped by a cool, slow ripening season — overcast skies and lower temperatures through February and March — that delivered exceptional density and focus. The wine bursts with bright citrus: mandarin, yuzu blossom, meyer lemon zest, and pineapple, layered over acacia, hay, and a flinty, graphite-driven minerality. The palate is textural and round, with firm acidity, chalky structure, and a bone-dry, lingering mineral finish. Restrained, classy, and built to reward patience.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2025 

“Very elegant, superfloral and perfumed, with some flinty reduction, offering acacia blossoms, hay, fleshy lemons and a touch of elderberries. Medium-bodied with firm acidity giving structure and length. Attractive bitter-lemon note in the finish. Mineral and detailed with real focus. From organically grown grapes.”
— James Suckling · 94 Points

“The 2025 Sauvignon Blanc leads with graphite and cold tea, chalky tannins and dried grasses on the palate. The wine is far more subtle and restrained than many other Sauvignon Blancs tasted for this report, and this does fit with the assessment I hold for this producer over time. These are classy wines. This is a classy wine. Clos Henri is owned by the Bourgeois family of Sancerre (Domaine Henri Bourgeois), and it is clear that the sensibilities of their estate there are continued by their winemaker Damien Yvon here in Marlborough. This is an estate to put on your list. Clos Henri is a member of the Appellation Marlborough Wine (AMW) group. 13.5% alcohol.”
— Wine Advocate · 93 Points

“Quite restrained with subtle aromas of earth, green olive, green pineapple and a hint of gorse flowers. The palate harbours density and depth under the shell of acidity and phenolics. Gravel, hessian and wet stone complexity rise alongside a touch of dried spice on the bone-dry finish. Accessible and expressive, this mid-weight sauvignon oozes with sophistication.”
— The Real Review · 93 Points · Stephen Wong

• Producer: Clos Henri (Bourgeois Family)
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Sub-Region: Central Wairau Valley (AMW)
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Style: Dry white — mineral, textural, flinty
• Alcohol: 13.5% | Residual Sugar: <1 g/L
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Mandarin, yuzu blossom, pineapple, meyer lemon, acacia, hay, graphite, chalky mineral finish
• Pairings: Line-caught blue cod, ceviche, Thai green curry, goat’s cheese tart, tomato salads
• Cellar: Drink now through 2030

94 JS · 93 WA · 93 TRR · Marlborough — organic Sancerre-inspired Sauvignon Blanc with glacial-soil precision and Bourgeois family pedigree.

Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2025 750ml is a vibrant, fruit-driven white wine from one of New Zealand's most iconic producers. Sourced from Marlborough's South Island vineyards, it delivers the zesty, aromatic character that has made the region synonymous with world-class Sauvignon Blanc.

The wine pours a pale straw color with green highlights. Zesty aromas of pink grapefruit, melon, and gooseberry jump from the glass. On the palate, flavors of grapefruit, honeydew melon, and passionfruit deliver ripe fruit sweetness balanced by a tight, fresh acidity. Beautifully balanced with a clean, refreshing finish.

Pairs well with fresh seafood, sushi, goat cheese, green salads, and light vegetable dishes.

"This leans into the greener garden veg and dried herb elements of Savvy B, highlighted by some reduction, which tempers the brighter passionfruit notes. There's a bit of sugar that sticks out above the ping of acidity, but overall it's a refreshing drop."
— Christina Pickard, Wine Enthusiast, 87 Points (Vintage 2025)

• Producer: Brancott Estate
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Grape Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
• Vintage: 2025
• Style: Crisp, zesty, fruit-forward Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
• Closure: Screwcap
• Format: 750ml
• Country: New Zealand

Winemaker Description

The Saintsbury Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 is the most complete wine in the portfolio — a masterful blend of 7 single-vineyard ferments spanning 5 Sub-AVAs and 8 clones across the breadth of Sonoma Coast. From Jim Pratt's Sebastopol Hills Vineyard to the Sangiacomo Family's Roberts Road Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap, these sites represent decades of relationships and a deep understanding of Sonoma Pinot Noir's remarkable diversity. Together, they yield a richer, more harmonious canvas than any single vineyard could provide alone. Expect aromas of cranberry, spruce, and violets, with Goldridge soils, volcanic clay, and marine fog lending structure and freshness throughout.

Appellation: Sonoma Coast  |  Sub-AVAs: 5  |  Vineyards: 7  |  Clones: 8  |  Production: 1,083 Cases

Fermentation & Élevage: 15% whole cluster fermentation, 11 months in 10% new French Oak.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Blood sausage with apples on toast or leg of lamb with Dijon & rosemary.
• Vegetables: Braised fennel alla Romana with shallot, garlic, lemon & herbs.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Époisses, or a mild washed-rind cheese.

Moët & Chandon | Impérial Brut | Champagne, France — Gift Box (750ml)

Moët & Chandon Impérial is the world's most celebrated Champagne — a house icon crafted since 1869 and the benchmark by which all non-vintage Champagne is measured. Blended from over 100 crus across the Champagne region, it combines Pinot Noir for structure and body, Pinot Meunier for fruitiness and roundness, and Chardonnay for freshness and elegance. This gift box presentation makes it the ultimate ready-to-give luxury for any occasion.

The wine opens with a radiant golden straw color and an aromatic profile of bright yellow-fleshed fruits — apple, pear, yellow peach — layered with honey, lime blossom, brioche, and fresh nuts. On the palate it is seductive and smooth, balancing generosity with vigor, and finishing with a delicately fresh crispiness that is the hallmark of great Champagne.

Expert Reviews 

The Somm Journal — 93 Points: Comme il faut from the unending bead onward. Biscuit and almond aromas, ripe golden apple on the nose turning to green on the palate, where citrus — lime, grapefruit, mandarin orange — cycles through high-flying acidity, with luscious pear adding weight and chalk conveying elegance through the finish.

Wine Spectator — 92 Points: Elegant, fine and creamy in texture, backed by lively orange peel acidity. A streak of smoke-tinged minerality underscores flavors of almond madeleine, poached pear, anise, and preserved lemon. Drink now.

James Suckling — 91 Points: Aromas of apricots, grapefruit, pears, and short crust. Medium-bodied with soft bubbles and tasty nut and pie crust notes at the end. 24 months on the lees.

Technical Details

Blend: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay  |  Region: Champagne, France  |  Style: Non-Vintage Brut  |  Lees Aging: 24 months  |  Presentation: Gift Box  |  Size: 750ml

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon — Columbia Valley 2022

Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington State’s founding winery — and the 2022 Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterclass in what makes this high-desert wine region so compelling. Sourced from vineyards east of the Cascades, where extreme diurnal temperature swings and volcanic soils concentrate flavor while preserving freshness, the wine is crafted to highlight Washington’s signature dark fruit in an accessible, food-friendly style. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points. At under $15, it is one of the most exciting values in all of American wine.

The nose is inviting and layered: a salty ocean breeze, driftwood, blackberries, olive oil, and a trace of bacon fat. On the palate, it is smooth and viscous, with dark plum and bittersweet chocolate-covered cherries coating the palate, framed by silky tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish. It delivers the kind of concentrated, structured pleasure that only great Columbia Valley Cabernet can — and it drinks beautifully right now.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “This superb value strikes first with a marine-themed nose of a salty ocean breeze, a driftwood beach fire, blackberries, olive oil, and a trace of bacon fat. Smooth and viscous, with dark plum and bittersweet chocolate-covered cherries coating the palate.” (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Chateau Ste. Michelle, Washington State, USA
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, dark plum, bittersweet chocolate, olive, bacon, ocean breeze
• Best Paired With: Beef tenderloin, grilled ribeye, lamb chops, pasta with meat sauce, aged cheddar, BBQ

A 91-point Washington Cabernet at an honest price — Chateau Ste. Michelle is the benchmark for what Columbia Valley Cab can be.

Jeio by Bisol · Prosecco DOC Brut · Veneto · Italy

Jeio is the Prosecco DOC line from Bisol, one of the Valdobbiadene region’s most storied families — named in honor of Desiderio Bisol, the patriarch whose wife affectionately called him “Jeio.” Desiderio was a visionary: he sought out only the steepest, most difficult-to-farm plots in the region, believing that the challenge of the terrain produced Glera of exceptional quality. His instinct was right. The Glera grown on these high-altitude sites outside Valdobbiadene is especially rich in malic acid, giving the wine a dynamic, evolved character that sets it apart from ordinary Prosecco. Fresh, saline, and built for the aperitivo hour.

Brilliant straw yellow with an extremely fine and lively perlage. The nose is intense and fresh — citrus fruits, white flowers, and saline sensations. On the palate, it is fruit-forward and refreshing with bright acidity and a clean, crisp finish. Everything you want from a great Prosecco, nothing you don’t.

• Producer: Bisol (Jeio line), Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy
• Appellation: Prosecco DOC
• Varietal: 100% Glera
• Vineyards: High-altitude DOC sites outside Valdobbiadene
• Style: Brut sparkling — fresh, citrus-driven, saline
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus fruits, white flowers, saline minerality, fine perlage, bright acidity, clean finish
• Pairings: Oysters, light appetizers, bruschetta, prosciutto, fresh cheeses, aperitivo spreads

Prosecco DOC — steep-vineyard Glera from the Bisol family’s Jeio line. Fine perlage, saline freshness, and built for the aperitivo hour.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023 (Barrel Samples)

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) — 90–92 Points
"A very pretty, aromatic wine. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon, dried herbs, and a kiss of French oak are all nicely delineated. This juicy, perfumed, Merlot-based Haut-Médoc is a fine choice for drinking over the next decade or so. The 2023 is absolutely delicious."

James Suckling — 91–92 Points
"A crunchy red with blackcurrant and lead-pencil character. Medium body, fine tannins, and an attractive finish. Polished and friendly. 59% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot."

Jeb Dunnuck — 89–91 Points
"A terrific Haut-Médoc with a juicy, medium-bodied, elegant style and the pure, ripe red and almost blue fruit character of the vintage. Spice, spring flowers, and hints of charcoal define the aromatics, with beautiful tannins and balance."

About Madame de Beaucaillou

Madame de Beaucaillou is a relatively new and highly regarded addition to the portfolio of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou — the legendary Second Growth estate in Saint-Julien. First released in 2019 to celebrate the estate’s 300th harvest, this cuvée is a tribute to Madame Eugène-Borie, the long-standing matriarch of the owning family. Sourced from the Haut-Médoc appellation rather than Saint-Julien, it offers the winemaking precision and pedigree of Ducru-Beaucaillou at a fraction of the grand vin price — a rare opportunity to access Second Growth DNA under $30.

Food Pairings

Grilled veal chops, roast chicken with herbs, steak frites, roasted root vegetables, savory mushroom tart, Brie de Meaux, and mild Tomme de Savoie.

Product Details

• Producer: Château Ducru-Beaucaillou (Madame de Beaucaillou)
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: 59% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Medium-bodied, aromatic, Merlot-driven Bordeaux
• Drink: Now–2033
• Format: 750ml

There's a California warmth to this Chardonnay that feels effortless — ripe pear, pineapple, and mango layered over crisp Granny Smith apple and a whisper of citrus zest. Ron barrel-fermented 70% of the wine in French and American oak (20% new) for eight months, drawing out notes of vanilla, caramel, and nutmeg, while the remaining 30% aged in stainless steel to keep things fresh and bright. The result is a wine that's both generous and clean — a classically round mouthfeel with enough acidity to keep every sip lively. Great alone, better at the table.

• Grape: Chardonnay
• Region: California, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Aging: 70% French & American oak (20% new, 8 months) / 30% stainless steel

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon 1.5L Magnum is a California red wine crafted in the approachable, fruit-forward style that has made Woodbridge one of America's most trusted everyday wine brands. This 1.5L Magnum format — equivalent to two standard bottles — is ideal for entertaining, casual gatherings, and any occasion that calls for a generous pour.

The wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe cherries, mixed berries, cedar, brown sugar, and toast. On the palate, flavors of berries, toasted marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker unfold with a smooth, toasty caramel finish. Medium-bodied and approachable, it delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing character at an exceptional value.

Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, burgers, BBQ, tomato-based pasta dishes, and aged cheddar.

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
• Appellation: California
• Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)
• Country: United States

Winemaker Description – Vintage 2025

The Roc de l’Abbaye Sauvignon Blanc Val de Loire 2025 is crafted by winemaker Florian from carefully selected vineyards in Oisly, close to the Cher River in the Val de Loire. This wine receives the same rigorous selection, vinification, and maturation as prestigious Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé — at a fraction of the price. The result is a crisp, mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc with intense aromatics and exceptional freshness that captures the essence of Loire Valley terroir.

The nose opens with green apple, field grass, white peach, and bosc pear, complemented by bright citrus and grapefruit. On the palate, a steely texture and chalky minerality ride above lively acidity, finishing clean with lemon zest.

Pairing Suggestions

• Classic Loire: Fresh goat cheese (chèvre) or a warm crottin de Chavignol.
• Seafood: Oysters, grilled white fish, fried calamari, or shrimp ceviche.
• Light dishes: Fresh salads, asparagus, zucchini, or light pasta with herbs.

Podere Castorani · Cadetto · Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC · Abruzzo · Italy · 2022

Podere Castorani is one of Abruzzo’s most compelling estates — a historic family winery in Alanno co-owned by former Formula One driver Jarno Trulli, who brought a racing driver’s obsession with precision and detail to his family’s winemaking heritage. The estate farms organically, without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, letting the terroir of Abruzzo speak clearly in every bottle. Cadetto — meaning “Cadet” — is the estate’s entry-level expression of Montepulciano: pure fruit, freshness, and organic integrity at an exceptional price point.

The 2022 pours a deep ruby with violet notes. The nose is intense and inviting — red fruit, dark cherry, plum, and light hints of spice and chocolate. On the palate, it is full-bodied with mature, smooth tannins, refreshing acidity, and a finish that lingers with spice and cocoa. Approachable now and versatile at the table.

• Producer: Podere Castorani (Jarno Trulli), Alanno, Abruzzo, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC
• Varietal: 100% Montepulciano
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Style: Dry red — full-bodied, fruit-forward, smooth tannins
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, red plum, spice, chocolate, mature tannins, refreshing acidity
• Pairings: Grilled chicken, light beef dishes, veal, pasta with tomato or meat sauce, pizza

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC — certified organic, estate-bottled, and co-owned by an F1 champion. Pure Abruzzo character at an unbeatable price.

Winemaker Description

The Grounded by Josh Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon California 2024 is a practicing sustainable California Cab from the Phelps family — crafted with the same attention to detail that defines their storied winemaking heritage. Sourced from premium vineyards across California’s North and Central Coast interior valleys, this blend of 85.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5.2% Merlot, 4.5% Petit Verdot, and 4.8% Petite Sirah is harvested at optimal ripeness, carefully fermented for balanced tannins, and aged in oak to preserve varietal integrity. 14% ABV.

The nose leads with heady aromas of black cherry, cassis, and licorice. On the palate, ripe blackberry, dusty cocoa, and sweet oak complement the silky texture throughout a long, aromatic finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Classic: Grilled ribeye, lamb chops, or a slow-braised short rib.
• Casual: Burgers, BBQ brisket, or a hearty pasta Bolognese.
• Cheese: Aged cheddar, Gouda, or a sharp Manchego.