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Flowers Vineyards Pinot Noir — Sonoma Coast, California 2023

Flowers Vineyards is one of California's most iconic coastal Pinot Noir estates, perched on the extreme Sonoma Coast where the Pacific Ocean's influence is felt in every bottle. Founded in 1991 by Walt and Joan Flowers, the estate farms some of the most dramatic and remote vineyard sites in California — high-elevation, wind-swept ridges above the fog line where the long, cool growing season produces Pinot Noir of extraordinary tension, complexity, and coastal character. Now part of the Huneeus Vintners family alongside Quintessa and Benton Lane, Flowers continues to set the benchmark for California coastal Pinot Noir. The 2023 vintage, shaped by a long, cool growing season, is one of the most compelling in recent memory.

The nose is captivating and complex: gravel dust, pine tar, and smashed blue fruits with whispers of violet florality, coastal evergreens, and wildflowers. On the palate, a core of red and blue brambles with a nearly feral, savoury character — dried herbs, black tea, warm spices (anise, cardamom, allspice), and earthy sandalwood — all threaded through by an intense saline throughline that crescendos at the finish with a bright squeeze of orange peel. Tangy, fresh, and beautifully balanced.

Decanter 93 Points — "There is an oomph and intensity to the 2023 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir from Flowers. Aromas of gravel dust, pine tar and smashed blue fruits come to the fore with whispers of violet florality. There's an intense saline throughline that crescendos at the finish."

James Suckling 93 Points — "A great reflection of the long, cool growing season. Tangy, fresh and well balanced, with intricate orange zest, cinnamon, red cherry and black tea flavors on a vibrant, acid-driven texture. Medium- to full-bodied." (Vintage 2023).

• Producer: Flowers Vineyards & Winery, Extreme Sonoma Coast, California
• Founded: 1991
• Owner: Huneeus Vintners (Quintessa, Benton Lane)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA, California
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Style: Medium-to-Full Bodied, Coastal, Complex
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blue fruit, red cherry, gravel dust, pine tar, violet, saline, dried herbs, black tea, orange peel, dark spice
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2033
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, lamb, aged pinot-friendly cheeses
• Serve: 58–62°F, decant 20–30 minutes

93 points from both Decanter and James Suckling — Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 is California coastal Pinot at its most compelling.

Au Bon Climat | Santa Barbara County, California | Pinot Noir | 2024

Au Bon Climat has been producing Burgundian-styled Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara County since 1982 — well before Sideways put the region on the map. The 2024 is a handcrafted blend from premier vineyards across the county: Bien Nacido, North Canyon, and Rancho Real in the Santa Maria Valley, with a small percentage from Kick On and Los Alamos. Hand harvested, fermented in small lots with daily manual punch downs, and aged 8–12 months in François Frères French oak barrels. Forty years of consistent winemaking, and it shows.

Vineyards: Bien Nacido, North Canyon, Rancho Real, Kick On, Los Alamos
Oak: 8–12 months, François Frères French oak
Alcohol: 13.5% | Acidity: 5.4 g/L
Drink: Now–2031

Tasting Notes

• Red currant, blueberry, and blood orange on the nose
• Bay leaf, white pepper, and wet stone in the background
• Well-balanced palate | Fine tannin and acid | Superb structure | Earthy depth

Pairings: Lamb, duck, lighter meats in youth; salmon and mild red sauce pasta with age. Remarkably versatile — ABC's own words: "the possible food pairings are almost endless."

Bürklin-Wolf Estate Riesling Trocken — Pfalz 2024

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf is one of Germany's most storied wine estates, with roots in the Pfalz stretching back to the 17th century. Under the stewardship of Bettina Bürklin-von Guradze — one of Germany's most celebrated woman winemakers — the estate converted fully to biodynamic farming in 2005, becoming a benchmark for sustainable viticulture in the region. The vineyards, which include grand cru sites Gaisböhl and Gerümpel, are farmed without synthetic inputs, guided by lunar cycles, and harvested by hand. The result is a range of Rieslings that express the Pfalz with uncommon precision and vitality.

The 2024 Estate Riesling Trocken is sourced from young vines — fifth and sixth leaf — from Gaisböhl and Gerümpel, fermented spontaneously with native yeasts, half in traditional Doppelstück oak casks and half in stainless steel. The combination preserves freshness while adding a subtle textural complexity that sets this wine apart from its peers at the price. Bone dry, vegan, and built for the table.

Pale gold in the glass with a luminous clarity. The nose is pristine and aromatic — abundant peach, Amalfi lemon, preserved citrus, and a delicate mineral flicker of flint. On the palate it is medium-bodied and juicy, with the characteristic Pfalz generosity of stone fruit balanced by vivid lemon acidity and a long, saline finish. Crisp, focused, and deeply satisfying — a Riesling that rewards both the casual pour and the considered pairing.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Abundant peach and Amalfi lemon fruit, plenty of structure and bright mineral acidity on the juicy, medium-bodied palate. Pronounced preserved lemon and salt flavors in the long finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Vegan.”

Vinous — 90 Points
“A very subtle flicker of flint accompanies bright citrus and crushed citrus foliage. The palate brings the typical Pfalz juiciness with some stone fruit, but the lemon overtone is a constant in this vivid, bone-dry expression.”

• Producer: Dr. Bürklin-Wolf, Wachenheim, Pfalz, Germany
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Pfalz
• Grape: 100% Riesling
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic, Vegan
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Bone-dry, mineral, medium-bodied Pfalz Riesling
• Tasting Notes: Peach, Amalfi lemon, preserved citrus, flint, stone fruit, saline finish
• Drink Window: Now–2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, oysters, sushi, roast chicken, soft cheeses, asparagus

Biodynamic farming. Woman winemaker. Two 90+ scores. Pfalz Riesling at its most honest.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Spectator 92 Points: Juicy and inviting, with tasty raspberry and mulberry notes infused with pine forest, red tea and wet earth accents. Keeps the fleshy, juicy feel through the lightly toasted finish. Drink now through 2028.

Winemaker Description

Lush, layered and complex, this enticing Pinot Noir draws you in with aromas of ripe raspberry and black cherry, alongside notions of pennyroyal, clove and sweet baking spices. On the palate, supple tannins and elegantly balanced acidity frame juicy flavors of blackberry and Bing cherry, with savory hints of nutmeg, leather and breakfast tea emerging on the long, robust finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roasted duck with cherry reduction or herb-crusted chicken thighs.
• Meat: Lamb chops with rosemary or pork tenderloin with mushroom sauce.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère, Brie, or a mild washed-rind cheese.

Casata Parini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo — Abruzzo, Italy 2024

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is one of Italy's great everyday reds — a grape and a region that consistently delivers deep color, generous fruit, and food-friendly structure at prices that make it the go-to Italian red for the table. Casata Parini is a reliable, well-made expression of the style: full-bodied, fruit-forward, and built for the kind of casual Italian meals that call for a bottle that doesn't require a second thought. Abruzzo's rugged terrain, warm days, and cool Adriatic-influenced nights produce Montepulciano of genuine character and depth.

The 2024 pours a deep ruby with violet hints. The nose is inviting — ripe raspberry, dark cherry, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it's full-bodied and robust with a pleasantly dry acidity, slightly grippy tannins that soften quickly, and a smooth, clean finish. Quintessentially food-friendly and built for the table — open it, pour it, and enjoy it without ceremony.

"Full-bodied with raspberry notes, robust flavor, slightly tannic palate balanced with a smooth finish — the perfect pairing for classic Italian dishes." — Casata Parini

• Producer: Casata Parini, Abruzzo, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC
• Varietal: Montepulciano
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, dark cherry, spice, full-bodied, dry acidity, smooth finish
• Best Paired With: Tomato-based pasta, pizza, spicy sausages, grilled meats, lasagna, eggplant parmigiana

Italy's most reliable everyday red — deep, fruit-forward, and made for the table at a price that makes every night feel like an Italian dinner.

Winemaker Description

It is very full in the mouth with a splendid bubbly sensation that fills the whole palate. Red fruit also appears, even more markedly in the nose. Long finish and great elegance. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

93 Points Wine Spectator: "This packs in some serious plum compote and cassis flavors, liberally wrapped in dark licorice and finishing with a swath of sweet toast and tobacco on the broad finish. Nice mineral underpinning keeps it honest. Fairly accessible despite its heft."

Winemaker Description

The Cabernet opens with fresh fruit, aromas of black currant, ripe raspberry, wild sage, graphite, crushed rose petals, and fennel seed. The palate is elegant, complex, rich, and refreshing with a long finish that is supported by supple tannin and beautifully integrated French Oak.

Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot

About the Producer

Since first working in her family's Mendocino vineyards, Kathryn Hall dreamed of a place to showcase fine wines alongside expressive art and masterful architecture. Now, Kathryn and Craig Hall have created an unrivalled destination in the Napa Valley — where more than 30 years of winemaking excellence and innovation meets contemporary design to celebrate life and inspire the senses.

The Halls acquired the historic St. Helena Bergfeld Winery in 2003 and re-opened as HALL St. Helena in July of that year. With a rich history spanning 150 years, HALL St. Helena was once the home of the Napa Valley Co-Op, producing 40% of Napa Valley's wines. In 2013, the Hall family completed the restoration of the 1885 Bergfeld Winery — California's first LEED® Gold Certified winery — alongside a stunning Visitor Center and state-of-the-art gravity flow winemaking facility.

HALL's estate vineyards encompass more than 500 acres of classic Bordeaux varietals. As winegrowers, the Halls have a strong respect for the environment and a commitment to cutting-edge vineyard technology. Under the artisanship of winemaker Megan Gunderson, HALL Wines continue to set new heights in Napa Valley winemaking.

Unveiling the Santi Valpolicella Ripasso Solane 2020

Winemaker Description

Santi Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a “ripasso” method Valpolicella; meaning that following primary fermentation the wine sees a second fermentation with the addition of Amarone grapes and skins, creating a richer, more complex and more exciting final wine.

Terroir: Santi Solane is sourced from estate vineyards within the original Valpolicella appellation of Valpolicella Classico.

Vinification: When primary fermentation is complete in early winter, grapes, skins and pomace from Santi’s Amarone are added to the vats. The additional sugars from the Amarone trigger a second fermentation which adds additional layers of complexity, rich fruit and structure. The wine is blended and then aged for more 3-5 months in small oak cask followed by an additional 12 months in larger neutral casks prior to bottling. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Santi "Solane" Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2020 is widely considered a high-value "overachiever" from the Veneto region. It is produced using the traditional Ripasso method, where the wine is re-fermented on the skins (pomace) of Amarone grapes to add depth, structure, and complexity without the heavy price tag of a full Amarone.

Because of its structure and savory edge, it pairs exceptionally well with:

• Meats: Roast beef, grilled ribeye, or game meats like venison.

• Pasta: Rich dishes like pappardelle with a wild boar or mushroom ragù.

• Cheese: Aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino.

Rich Heritage of Valpolicella

The Santi Valpolicella Ripasso Solane 2020 is a splendid representation of the Valpolicella region in Italy. Wine aficionados appreciate it for its unique process where young wine is re-passed over the dried grape skins of Amarone, infusing it with remarkable depth. This method is traditional yet modern, offering a glimpse into the artistry behind Italian winemaking. You can savor its rich, complex flavors, which are a testament to its heritage and craftsmanship.

A Symphony of Flavors

When you take a sip of Santi Valpolicella Ripasso, you are introduced to a symphony of flavors. The wine presents an enticing profile of dark cherry, plum, and hints of spices. These flavors dance on your palate, while soft tannins create a smooth finish. This balance ensures that the wine is versatile, making it an excellent choice for pairing with various dishes. Whether you enjoy it alone or with a meal, it promises a delightful experience, and you will find it satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

What sets the Santi Valpolicella Ripasso apart is its versatility. It’s perfect for casual dinners or formal gatherings. The medium-bodied nature of this wine complements roasted meats, rich pasta dishes, and even artisanal cheeses. Because of its complexity, it is also enjoyable on its own. This adaptability makes it a beloved choice among wine enthusiasts, ensuring that you always have the right option for any occasion or season.

Awards & Acclaim

• Gold Medal — Vinari Awards Barcelona Rosé International Bubbles Awards 2025
• 90 Points — James Suckling
• Gold Medal — International Wine Awards 2024
• Gold Medal — Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition 2022
• 92 Points — Gourmets Guide 2021 (Best Cavas)

Winemaker Notes

The Canals Canals family crafted this rosé cava from 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Garnatxa (Garnacha), following the Traditional Method — secondary fermentation in bottle with 24+ months aging on lees in their cellars. Certified organic.

Deep red-rose color with fine, persistent bubbles. Fresh and floral on the nose with ripened red fruits and a slightly nutty character. Perfectly balanced and full-bodied on the palate with a long, clean finish.

Tasting & Pairings

Red fruits, floral notes, and a nutty edge. Full-bodied for a sparkling rosé with fine mousse and a clean, lingering finish. Serve cold (6–8°C / 43–46°F).

• Charcuterie or tapas — a natural aperitif pairing with Spanish flair.
• Pasta, rice dishes, or blue fish — the body and acidity handle richer fare.
• Seasoned white meat or red meat stews — this has the structure to stand up to heartier dishes.

Domaine Isabelle & Denis Pommier — Chablis AOC 2023

Appellation: Chablis AOC, Burgundy | Varietal: Chardonnay | Format: 750ml | Farming: Certified Organic (AgriBio since 2010)

Founded in 1990 on two hectares of family land, Domaine Isabelle & Denis Pommier has grown into one of Chablis’ most respected family estates. Their path from sustainable farming to fully certified organic viticulture is embodied in the red ladybug on their bright yellow labels — a symbol of genuine respect for the land. The 2023 is a textbook expression of what Kimmeridgian limestone and cool-climate Chardonnay can achieve together: round, fleshy, and mineral-precise.

Vineyard & Viticulture

• Location: Slopes in the villages of Chablis and Ligny-le-Châtel, Northernmost sub-region of Burgundy
• Soil: Kimmeridgian limestone in Chablis; Portlandian in Ligny-le-Châtel
• Farming: AgriBio certified organic since 2010; soils worked manually, no synthetic inputs

Vinification & Aging

• Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tank
• Aged on the lees in tank for 6 months
• Drink now through 2029

Tasting Notes

Crisp green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers on the nose. Flinty oyster-shell minerality from Kimmeridgian limestone. Round and fleshy on the palate with bright acidity and a clean, precise finish. Serve well-chilled alongside oysters, clams, grilled fish, sushi, seafood risotto, or aged chèvre.

Indaba Sauvignon Blanc — Western Cape, South Africa 2024

Indaba — the Zulu and Xhosa word for a gathering of minds — was built on the belief that exceptional South African wine should be within everyone's reach. Sourced from family farmers working decomposed granite, calcareous clay, and ancient shale soils along the Western Cape's sunshine coast, Indaba Sauvignon Blanc is a consistently over-delivering value wine that has earned "Best Value" and "Best Buy" accolades year after year. Sustainably farmed, stainless steel fermented, and aged three months on lees for added texture.

The 2024 pours pale yellow with green reflections. The nose is vibrant and immediately inviting — guava, passion fruit, pineapple, lemon-lime, and green fig with a lift of citrus blossom. On the palate, it's fresh and zesty with racy acidity and a clean, mineral-tinged finish that lingers. Stylistically approachable and food-friendly, this is a crowd-pleaser in the best possible sense.

"Enticing citrus and tropical fruit aromas lead to fresh, zesty flavors of pineapple, lemon-lime, mango and green fig, supported by a spine of racy acidity. The mineral-tinged finish happily lingers." — Indaba Winemaker

• Producer: Indaba Wines, Western Cape, South Africa
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Western Cape WO
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Sustainable
• Fermentation: Stainless steel; aged 3 months on lees
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Guava, passion fruit, pineapple, lemon-lime, green fig, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, sushi, Thai cuisine, goat cheese, light salads, grilled chicken

An outstanding everyday Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa's Western Cape — sustainably made, consistently awarded, and priced to enjoy any night of the week.

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points (Tonya Pitts) | Bold and supple with aromas of red currant, dark strawberry, brown sugar, cinnamon, and toasty oak. The palate mirrors the nose with hibiscus tea, cracked black pepper, silky tannins, and a smooth finish. Pair with a shredded chicken sandwich with Alabama BBQ sauce. (Vintage 2023)

Winemaker's Notes
 
McManis Family Vineyards crafts this Zinfandel as a rich, fruit-forward expression of California's Central Valley. Deep purple in the glass, it is loaded with notes of ripe red currant, strawberry, caramelized sugar, and toasty oak. Savory red fruit on the palate leads to soft, supple tannins and a long, smooth finish.

    •    Winery: McManis Family Vineyards
    •    Appellation: California
    •    Varietal: Zinfandel
    •    Vintage: 2023
    •    Format: 750ml
    •    Style: Bold, fruit-forward, smooth tannins
    •    Pairings: BBQ, grilled meats, burgers, spiced dishes

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast (Tonya Pitts) 90 Points: Deep aromas of baked plum, coffee bean, dried bay leaf, cocoa, and dried florals on the nose. These aromas softly float into the palate giving flavors of dried cranberry, strawberry, and grilled orange rind, leaving the palate with grippy, mouthwatering tannins.

Winemaker Description

Bogle’s California Merlot opens with aromatics of Bing cherries, sassafras, and hints of pipe tobacco. Supple red fruits on the entry give way to touches of cedar and sweet herbs — an approachable, food-friendly Merlot that consistently over-delivers for the price.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Peking duck, roasted chicken with herbs, or turkey with cranberry sauce.
• Meat: Braised short ribs, pork tenderloin, or a classic beef stew.
• Cheese: Mild cheddar, Havarti, or a creamy Brie.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Matt Kettmann writes 91 Points | Toasted almond, citrus pith and light dairy aromas show on the nose of this appellation cuvée. The palate picks up an earthier line, as chaparral rock and herb flavors meet with brighter lemon and dried pear elements.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | From grapes grown primarily in San Luis Obispo, the 2023 Chardonnay is a nicely integrated, full-bodied white with grainy texture and flavors of lemon pith, tangerine and wet stone. Hugely enjoyable, with a rounded mouthfeel and long-lasting acidity, it is drinking well now but should continue to be great another 5-7 years.

Winery Notes

Impeccably balanced, this Chardonnay reflects its cool-climate coastal roots with aromas of lemon zest, apricot, and delicate orange blossom. On the palate, vibrant notes of golden apple and pineapple are elevated by bright acidity, delivering focus and energy to a crisp, refreshing finish.

The 2023 growing season began with a long, wet winter, followed by an early spring that delayed budbreak across the Central Coast. Moderate spring weather provided near-ideal conditions for bloom, while the mild temperatures persisted into summer. This extended the ripening period by an additional month, allowing the fruit to achieve exceptional ripeness with a harmonious balance of acidity and concentration.

In 1975, legendary vintner and pioneer Josh Jensen founded Calera (Spanish for “lime kiln”) high in the Gavilan Mountains of California’s majestic Central Coast. In the four decades since, Calera has helped establish the Central Coast as one of the New World’s most exciting wine regions, while earning acclaim as one of California’s iconic wineries. Sourced from some of the appellation’s finest vineyards, the Calera Central Coast Chardonnay has become a benchmark for the region, balancing lush richness with beautiful minerality and bright citrus flavors.

Memo Pairing Suggestions

Food Pairings: Pairs excellently with grilled fish, roasted chicken, wild mushroom ravioli in a light cream sauce, or salads with goat cheese.

Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut — Champagne NV

Piper-Heidsieck is one of Champagne’s most iconic and storied houses, founded in 1785 and long favored by royalty and Hollywood alike. The Cuvée Brut is the house’s flagship non-vintage expression — a Pinot-dominant blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier, and 20% Chardonnay that delivers the house’s signature vivacity, richness, and precision. Consistently earning scores of 90–92 points across the world’s most respected publications, this is a Champagne of genuine pedigree at an exceptional price.

The nose is complex and inviting: black cherry, white peach purée, croissant, sourdough, dried lemon, apricot, and salted almond, with bright florals and a racy finesse. On the palate, it is creamy and mouthwatering — soft Brut character balanced by a crisp bite of acidity, a finely detailed mousse, and a spiced, rounded finish of honey, red fruit, and toasted brioche.

Wine Spectator 92 — “A vivacious Champagne. Flavors of black cherry, toast point, white peach purée and salted almond on a finely detailed mousse. Creamy and mouthwatering on the spiced finish.”
Decanter 92 — “Racy nose of real finesse. A well-hewn palate with bright florals, red fruit and delicate flavours of honey.”
Wine Enthusiast 90 • Wine & Spirits 90 • James Suckling 90

• Producer: Piper-Heidsieck, Reims, Champagne, France
• Founded: 1785
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, white peach, croissant, sourdough, dried lemon, apricot, salted almond, honey, red fruit, creamy mousse
• Best Paired With: Oysters, sole, lobster, smoked salmon, soft cheeses, charcuterie

Founded in 1785, favored by royalty, and scoring 92 points — Piper-Heidsieck’s Cuvée Brut is Champagne history you can drink tonight.

About This Wine

Santa Marina Pinot Grigio is a perennial crowd-pleaser from Italy — fresh, easy-drinking, and endlessly versatile. The 2024 vintage arrives in a generous 1.5L Magnum format, making it the perfect pour for gatherings, al fresco dinners, and celebrations where one bottle is never quite enough.

Delicate gold with hints of straw, this Pinot Grigio opens with a lovely nose of ripe pear, citrus zest, and almond blossom. Light to medium-bodied on the palate, it delivers soft, clean fruit with a crisp, dry finish that keeps you coming back for another glass. Chill well and enjoy.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Delicate gold with straw highlights
• Nose: Ripe pear, citrus zest, almond blossom
• Palate: Light to medium body, soft and clean, fresh fruit
• Finish: Crisp, dry, and refreshing

Food Pairings

Grilled seafood, light pasta dishes, bruschetta, fresh mozzarella, and antipasto. A natural aperitivo wine — equally at home at a summer picnic or a dinner party.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 1.5L Magnum
Vintage: 2024
Country: Italy
Grape Variety: Pinot Grigio
Style: Dry White Wine

Bravium Russian River Valley Chardonnay — Plumis Vineyard, Sonoma County 2024

Bravium is a specialist in cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley — one of California’s most prestigious appellations for both varieties, where morning fog rolls in off the Pacific and lingers through the vines, preserving natural acidity and producing wines of remarkable freshness and precision. The 2024 Chardonnay is sourced primarily from the Plumis Vineyard near Forestville, a prized site where the interplay of coastal influence and California sunshine creates a wine that balances richness with crisp coastal structure. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points.

The nose is loaded and inviting: floral aromas, chalky minerality, pithy lemon, pineapple, honey, pear, apple, and white flowers, with a judicious framing of vanillin oak. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and lively — crisp pineapple and mango fruit flavors that turn into apple pastry on the mid-palate, finely textured with medium acidity that builds into a saline, mineral finish of remarkable length and bounce. It is the kind of Chardonnay that delivers great value at every pour.

Wine Enthusiast 91 (Tom R. Capo) — "The nose is loaded with floral aromas, swirling with chalky minerality, pithy lemon, and pineapple. The palate is driven by lively acid, with flavors of fresh pear, tropical citrus, white flowers, and ginger that ebb and flow through the finale. There’s great value here." (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Bravium, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA
• Vineyard: Plumis Vineyard, Forestville
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Full-bodied, cool-climate Chardonnay with saline minerality
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pineapple, mango, lemon, pear, apple pastry, white flowers, ginger, vanillin oak, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oyster po’ boys, grilled salmon with lemon butter, Dungeness crab cakes, mushroom risotto, fettuccine Alfredo, aged Gouda, creamy Brie

A 91-point single-vineyard Russian River Chardonnay at an honest price — Bravium’s Plumis Vineyard bottling is the benchmark for what cool-climate, fog-influenced Sonoma Chardonnay can deliver.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

James Suckling 89 Points: Bright, citrusy nose with hints of sour cherries and dried flowers. Vivid and fruity, with medium body and juicy acidity, finishing bright and zesty. Pleasant and attractive. From organically grown grapes. Vegan. Sustainable.

Winemaker Description

"Rina Russa" means "red sand" in Sicilian dialect — a name that speaks to the ancient terroir from which this wine is born. The Frappato grapes come from estate-grown ancient clones, yielding a beautiful light cherry color with a fresh and vibrant bouquet reminiscent of wild strawberries. The palate is silky and smooth with a real freshness running through it and a surprisingly long finish.

Certifications: Organic  |  Vegan  |  Sustainable

Pairing Suggestions

• Seafood: Grilled branzino, swordfish alla Siciliana, or seafood pasta.
• Meat: Charcuterie, roasted rabbit, or light pork dishes.
• Cheese: Fresh Pecorino Siciliano or mild ricotta salata.

A fantastic Rhone from Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf du Pape 2023 

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 95 Points
"An attractive, layered, velvety, and poised Châteauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of cherries, strawberries, dried herbs, tar, and baking spices. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Succulent and well composed. There’s elegance here, yet it has character and structure. Seductive and flavorful with a long finish."

Jeb Dunnuck — 92–94 Points (Barrel Sample)
"The 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape will be beautiful, with a charming, soft, supple, forward style. Ripe red and black fruits, peppery herbs, and lavender notes all define the bouquet, and it hits the palate with medium-to-full-bodied richness, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, and sweet tannins. Based on 75% Grenache, 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault — 50% destemmed and raised entirely in foudre. It’s clearly outstanding and another classic release from this brilliant estate."

About Le Vieux Donjon

Le Vieux Donjon is one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most celebrated and consistent family estates, owned and farmed by the Michel family for generations. The domaine takes its name from the ancient papal tower — the “old dungeon” — that overlooks their vineyards in the heart of the appellation. Farming organically on the iconic galets roulés — the large rounded stones that retain heat and reflect sunlight onto the vines — Le Vieux Donjon produces Grenache-dominant blends of extraordinary depth, complexity, and age-worthiness. The estate is widely regarded as a benchmark Châteauneuf-du-Pape producer, consistently earning top scores from the world’s leading critics vintage after vintage.

Food Pairings

Roasted lamb, duck confit, wild boar, herb-crusted beef tenderloin, truffle dishes, aged Comté, and Provençal stews. Decant 1–2 hours before serving; cellar through 2035+.

Product Details

• Producer: Le Vieux Donjon
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Rhône Valley, France
• Blend: 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault
• Aging: Foudre (large oak casks)
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, layered, cellar-worthy Southern Rhône red
• Drink: Now–2035+ (decant 1–2 hours)
• Format: 750ml

Producer Notes

The Oddero estate is one of Piedmont’s most storied Barolo producers, with impressive vineyard holdings throughout the entirety of the denomination. The classic Barolo bottling incorporates younger vines from sites in La Morra as well as Bricco Fiasco in Castiglione Falletto, and draws from Bricco Chiesa, Capalot, and Galina. The 2021 vintage is a standout — aromatic, pliant, and wonderfully inviting, with crushed flowers, red and blue-toned fruit, spice, and perfumed notes. Fine, polished tannins and a long, savoury finish. Gorgeously approachable now but will keep evolving.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

• Decanter 93 pts | Evocatively scented with wild red berries, vanillin, and spice. Fine tannins increase steadily across the palate alongside richness of raspberry fruit. Hints of tea and citrus lead to a savoury, mouth-cleansing finish. Gorgeously approachable now but will keep evolving. — Michaela Morris
• Vinous 92 pts | Fabulous. Aromatic, pliant, and wonderfully inviting. Crushed flowers, red/blue-toned fruit, spice, and perfumed notes build nicely in the glass. Polished, silky tannins wrap it all together in style. — Antonio Galloni

Food Pairings

• Braised beef short ribs or osso buco
• Truffle pasta or mushroom risotto
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno
• Roasted lamb or wild boar

Dönnhoff Estate Riesling — Nahe VDP.Gutswein 2024

Dönnhoff is the Nahe. For decades, Helmut Dönnhoff and now his son Cornelius have set the standard for German Riesling from this compact, geologically extraordinary region between the Mosel and the Rhine. The estate's vineyards sit on steep slopes around Oberhausen in the middle Nahe, where volcanic porphyry, melaphyre, slate, and quartzite converge in soils unlike anywhere else in Germany. It is this geological complexity — ancient, mineral-rich, and deeply expressive — that gives Dönnhoff Rieslings their signature clarity, precision, and finesse.

The 2024 Estate Riesling is a VDP.Gutswein — the entry point into the Dönnhoff range, and one of the most overdelivering bottles in German wine. Sourced from a broader selection of sites than usual, including Oberhäuser Felsenberg and Kieselberg, and fermented in a combination of stainless steel tanks and large oak barrels, the wine captures the full character of the 2024 vintage: brilliant fruit, lively acidity, and a cool, precise finish. Bone dry, screw-capped, and built for immediate pleasure.

Luminous pale gold in the glass. The nose is effusive and aromatic — mandarin orange, yellow peach, green apple, citrus zest, and white peach, with a fine saline minerality threading through. On the palate it is svelte and medium-bodied, zesty and ripe, with a sunny, lip-smacking quality and a long, saline, savory finish. Pure Riesling. Vibrant, fresh, and immensely clean — a crystal-clear expression of what Dönnhoff and the Nahe are all about.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Brimming with mandarin orange and yellow peach aromas, this is a very attractive entry-level dry Riesling. Barely medium-bodied, but so effusive and elegant. Very zesty finish.”

Vinous — 91 Points
“An absolutely clear-cut, lip-smacking Riesling. The palate is totally strait-laced, zesty and ripe, with a sunny aspect. Svelte and immensely fresh.”

Wine Advocate — 90 Points
“Remarkably intense and aromatic yellow stone fruit intermingled with complex and saline terroir notes of the middle Nahe. Fresh and savory on the palate — pure and fresh with remarkable intensity and sustainability on the finish.”

• Producer: Weingut Dönnhoff, Oberhausen, Nahe, Germany
• Vintage: 2024
• Classification: VDP.Gutswein
• Appellation: Nahe
• Grape: 100% Riesling
• Closure: Screw cap
• Style: Bone-dry, mineral, medium-bodied Nahe Riesling
• Tasting Notes: Mandarin orange, yellow peach, green apple, citrus zest, saline minerality
• Drink Window: Now–2032
• Best Paired With: Spicy Thai or Indian cuisine, fresh trout, Jägerschnitzel, salty cheeses, oysters

Three critics. Three 90+ scores. The Nahe’s finest estate — at its most accessible.

Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Reserva Vendimia Seleccionada 2020 — Rioja Alta & Rioja Alavesa, Spain

Marqués de Cáceres is one of Rioja’s most celebrated and internationally recognized estates, founded in 1970 by Enrique Forner in partnership with the legendary Bordeaux oenologist Émile Peynaud. The winery pioneered a more elegant, French-influenced style of Rioja — emphasizing freshness, precision, and terroir expression over heavy extraction — and has remained one of the appellation’s benchmark producers for over five decades.

The Vendimia Seleccionada (Selected Harvest) Reserva is a step above the standard Reserva, crafted from a careful selection of 15–25-year-old vines in the premier Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa sub-regions. Aged in oak and bottle in accordance with Reserva regulations, this is a wine of genuine complexity and cellar-worthy structure.

The 2020 shows a deep, brilliant crimson color. The nose is powerful yet delicate — noble wood, lightly spiced, with hints of vanilla and cocoa against a background of dark fruit, touches of licorice, and woodland notes that give the wine personality and elegance. On the palate it is very expressive, full-bodied and refined, with delicious flavors of berries laced with toasty notes and a long, classy finish.

Selected Harvest. 15–25-year-old vines. Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa — Marqués de Cáceres at its most refined.

• Producer: Marqués de Cáceres, Cenicero, Rioja Alta, Spain (est. 1970)
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: DOCa Rioja (Rioja Alta & Rioja Alavesa)
• Classification: Reserva — Vendimia Seleccionada (Selected Harvest)
• Varietal: Tempranillo-based blend
• Vine Age: 15–25 years
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, vanilla, cocoa, licorice, noble wood, spice, woodland, toasty berries, long elegant finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, Ibérico ham, aged Manchego, slow-braised short ribs, mushroom dishes

Classic Rioja Reserva from one of the appellation’s founding estates — Marqués de Cáceres Vendimia Seleccionada is the benchmark.

Kellerei Terlan Alto Adige Pinot Grigio Tradition — South Tyrol 2024

Kellerei Terlan's Pinot Grigio Tradition is the calling card of one of Italy's most celebrated alpine cooperatives — and the 2024 vintage is a benchmark expression of what Alto Adige Pinot Grigio can be. Sourced from high-altitude vineyards in the Terlano DOC, where cool mountain air and mineral-rich soils define the character of every bottle, this wine delivers the kind of precision and freshness that has made Kellerei Terlan a reference point for Italian white wine lovers worldwide. James Suckling awarded it 93 points, calling it "superjuicy and long with a savory finish."

The nose is aromatic and inviting: Williams pear, lychee, white melon, and the delicate floral lift of a freshly mown alpine meadow. On the palate, it is full yet mellow — layers of black tea, exotic melon, and ripe grapefruit framed by lively acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish. It is the rare Pinot Grigio that is as compelling on its own as it is at the table.

James Suckling 93 — "Salt and pepper with minerals. Superjuicy and long with a savory finish. A food-friendly wine." (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Kellerei Terlan (Cantina Terlano), Alto Adige, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Alto Adige / Südtirol DOC
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Grigio
• Vinification: High-altitude vineyard sourcing, cool-climate fermentation
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Williams pear, lychee, white melon, black tea, grapefruit, alpine florals, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 2–4 years
• Best Paired With: South Tyrolean charcuterie, herb risotto, nettle gnocchi, lightly truffled dishes, grilled fish, tender veal

Precise, aromatic, and unmistakably alpine — Kellerei Terlan's Pinot Grigio Tradition is the benchmark for what Alto Adige white wine can be.

Awards & Accolades

Platinum Award & Director's Best Spirits Barrel Aged Wine | 2023 Monterey International Wine & Spirits Competition

Winemaker Description

Cooper and Thief Cellarmaster's Red Wine Blend 2022 750ml

Crafted by Cellarmaster Jeff Kasavan, this California Red Blend is aged three months in bourbon whiskey barrels, imparting a velvety mouthfeel, subtle warmth, and notes of toasty vanilla and classic bourbon spice. Blackberry and jammy dark currants lead to a rich, full-bodied finish. The blend — Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon — draws from prime winegrowing regions across California, unified by the unmistakable character of bourbon barrel aging.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, or slow-smoked brisket.
• Poultry: Bourbon-glazed chicken, duck confit, or turkey with dark fruit sauce.
• Cheese: Aged cheddar, smoked Gouda, or a bold blue cheese.

A favorite at 67 Wine Castello di Bossi

Winemaker Description

This Riserva has a luminous ruby red color. Appealing aromas of dark cherries, plums, sweet spice, violets, vanilla, and hints of dark chocolate and menthol emerge on the nose. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied but smooth with an almost creamy mouthfeel. Tannins are well integrated with the alcohol, leading to a subtly sweet, silky finish.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2021

James Suckling — 94 Points
"Subtle aromas of black cherries, tar, mushrooms, black truffles, and dark earth. Medium-to-full-bodied with refined and linear tannins that give tension and focus to the wine. Delicate finish. From organically grown grapes. Lovely now. Drink or hold."

Vinous — 91 Points
"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Berardo is a powerful, layered wine. Black cherry, liquorice, cloves, leather, and scorched earth all run through this brooding, imposing Riserva. There’s a lot to like here, especially in the way this opens with time in the glass."

About Castello di Bossi

Castello di Bossi is one of Chianti Classico’s most respected family estates, situated in the Castelnuovo Berardenga subzone — the southernmost and warmest part of the Chianti Classico DOCG, known for producing wines of exceptional richness and structure. The estate has been farmed organically for decades, harnessing the area’s galestro and alberese soils to produce Sangiovese of remarkable depth and complexity. The Berardo Riserva — named for the estate’s founding family — is the flagship wine of Castello di Bossi, aged for an extended period in French and Slavonian oak before release. It consistently ranks among the finest expressions of Chianti Classico Riserva at any price.

Food Pairings

Korean short ribs, ragù sauces, gnocchi with roasted rabbit, beef negimaki, bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar, and aged Pecorino Toscano. Decant 1 hour before serving; cellar through 2033.

Product Details

• Producer: Castello di Bossi
• Appellation: Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Subzone: Castelnuovo Berardenga
• Grape: Sangiovese
• Certification: Organic
• Vintage: 2021
• Style: Full-bodied, structured, cellar-worthy Chianti Classico Riserva
• Drink: Now–2033 (decant 1 hour)
• Format: 750ml

Expert Review — Vintage 2024

James Suckling 92 Points | Citrus, white pears and hints of snow peas on the nose of this juicy and crisp white. It’s medium-bodied, bright and cool, with a light peppery twist at the end. From organically grown grapes.

Winemaker Description

This Grüner Veltliner is a blend of wines sourced from different terraced vineyards in the Kamptal. The elevated terraces consist of stonier soils (schisted granite), producing wines with aromatic expression, good acidity, elegant stone fruit and pronounced minerality. The lower terraces of layered fertile loess contribute more body and ripeness. The combination of these two characteristics yields a classic Grüner Veltliner with both finesse and vigor — certified organic.

Food Pairings

• Wiener Schnitzel or roasted veal
• Grilled white fish, scallops, or sushi
• Asparagus, spring vegetables, or herb-forward dishes
• Fresh goat cheese or mild alpine cheeses

Product Details

• Producer: Weingut Bründlmayer
• Grape: Grüner Veltliner
• Appellation: Kamptal, Niederösterreich, Austria
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

Feudo Montoni Vigna del Core Perricone — Sicilia, Italy 2022

Feudo Montoni is one of Sicily's most important organic estates, farming ancient indigenous varieties in the rugged interior highlands near Cammarata — far from the coast, at elevations that bring cool nights and dramatic diurnal swings. Their Vigna del Core is dedicated to Perricone, one of Sicily's rarest and most historically significant red grapes, nearly extinct until producers like Montoni championed its revival. Grown organically and harvested from old vines, this is a wine of genuine character and place.

The 2022 pours a ruby red with light violet reflections. The nose is earthy and complex — grilled herbs, blackberries, dried flowers, warm spice, and exotic notes of cocoa and licorice. On the palate, it's silky-smooth and deeply textural, with ripe red and black fruit driven by vibrant acidity and a coating of fine, dusty tannins. The finish is long, fresh, and beautifully polished — a total pleasure to taste.

"Silky-smooth and deeply textural, with a rich blend of ripe red and black fruits motivated by vibrant acidity. The 2022 cleans up beautifully, finishing long and staining yet fresh. A total pleasure to taste." — Vinous, 92 Points

• Producer: Feudo Montoni, Cammarata, Sicily, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Sicilia DOC
• Varietal: Perricone
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: Vinous 92 | Wine Spectator 90
• Tasting Notes: Grilled herbs, blackberry, dried flowers, cocoa, licorice, fine dusty tannins
• Best Paired With: Braised lamb, wild boar, aged pecorino, grilled sausages, hearty Sicilian pasta dishes

A 92-point certified organic Perricone from one of Sicily's most committed indigenous variety champions — rare, soulful, and built to age.

Jean-Marc et Romain Pastou — Sancerre Vieilles Vignes 2025

Domaine Pastou is a family estate rooted in Sury-en-Vaux, a quiet village nestled in the rolling hills of the northern Sancerre appellation. Jean-Marc Pastou began making wine under his own name in the early 1980s, planting his first vines — now the oldest on the estate — in that same year. Today his son Romain carries the torch, farming 12 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc across some of Sancerre’s finest sites, including multiple parcels in the prized lieu dit of Les Boucaults.

The Vieilles Vignes cuvée draws on the estate’s oldest vines, delivering the deeper concentration, mineral complexity, and textural richness that only age can bring. This is mineral-driven Sancerre at its most authentic — precise, elegant, and a perennial favorite for the value it delivers at its price point.

• Producer: Domaine Jean-Marc et Romain Pastou, Sury-en-Vaux, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Sancerre AOC
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Vineyard: 12 hectares including Les Boucaults lieu dit
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Mineral, citrus, white fruit, crisp acidity, elegant finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, goat cheese, asparagus, light seafood pasta

Old vines, great terroir, outstanding value — Pastou Sancerre is the kind of discovery that keeps customers coming back.

Winemaker Description 

A delicious, well-balanced wine made to exacting standards, our Legacy Red Blend is bursting with rich, dark fruit flavors complemented by hints of toasted wood and fresh cracked pepper.

Founded by Joseph Carr in honor of his father, Josh Cellars makes bold, well-balanced, and delicious wines that are sophisticated yet approachable. Sourced from California’s best growing regions, they are intentionally crafted for sharing with family and friends.
Description

The nose shows aromatic blueberry and plum backed by pepper and vanilla. On the palate, the wine shows good body, with baked plums and dark cherries, with secondary notes of roasted almonds, toasted cedar, and hazelnuts, finishing long with fine, soft tannins.

Pairs well with BBQ ribs, leg of lamb, and grilled skirt steak.

Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah 

Château d’Esclans · Whispering Angel Rosé · Côtes de Provence · France · 2025 · Half Bottle 375ml

Whispering Angel is the wine that redefined Provence rosé for the world — and Château d’Esclans, under the stewardship of Sacha Lichine and winemaker Patrick Léon, is the estate that made it happen. Sourced from old Grenache, Rolle, Cinsault, Syrah, and Mourvèdre vines across the Côtes de Provence, Whispering Angel is the benchmark for the pale, dry, elegant Provence style that has captivated the world. Now available in a 375ml half bottle — the perfect format for a solo glass, a picnic, or a gift that travels beautifully.

The 2025 pours a strikingly pale pink — the signature Whispering Angel hue. The nose is fresh and fruity: dried raspberries, frozen strawberries, mild spice, and a whisper of saline minerality. On the palate, it is bone dry, medium-bodied, and beautifully balanced — bright acidity, a lively center palate, and a persistent, flavorful finish that is as elegant as the name suggests.

“A well-rounded, focused and delicious rosé showing dried raspberries, frozen strawberries and mild spices on the nose. Medium-bodied with bright acidity. Balanced and driven, with a lively center palate and a persistent, flavorful finish.”
— James Suckling · 92 Points · Prior Vintage 2024

• Producer: Château d’Esclans (Sacha Lichine), Provence, France
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Côtes de Provence AOC
• Blend: Grenache, Rolle, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre
• Style: Dry rosé — pale, fresh, elegant
• Format: Half Bottle — 375ml
• Tasting Notes: Dried raspberry, frozen strawberry, mild spice, saline minerality, bone dry, bright acidity
• Pairings: Grilled fish, shrimp, light salads, goat cheese, charcuterie, summer aperitivo

JS:92 · Côtes de Provence — the world’s most iconic Provence rosé, now in a 375ml half bottle. Pale, dry, and endlessly elegant.

Veuve Clicquot Rosé Non-Vintage Brut | Champagne, France | 750ml | 12% ABV

The Rosé Non-Vintage is Veuve Clicquot's answer to a perennial question: how do you make a Champagne that is both immediately pleasurable and unmistakably serious? The answer lies in the house's signature approach — a blend anchored by Pinot Noir, enriched with still red wine for color and depth, and built on the same structural backbone that defines the Yellow Label.

The result is a Champagne of luminous pale salmon, generous on the nose with fresh red fruit — raspberry, wild strawberry, cherry — giving way to biscuity notes of dried fruit and Viennese pastry.

On the palate, the attack is fresh and focused, the texture silky, the finish long and harmonious. It is, in the best sense, a Champagne that earns its elegance.

Crafted from 50 to 60 different crus, the blend runs 50–55% Pinot Noir, 15–20% Pinot Meunier, and 28–33% Chardonnay, with approximately 12% still red wine integrated for structure and hue.

92 Points — Decanter  |  91 Points — Wine Spectator  |  91 Points — James Suckling  |  90 Points — Wine Enthusiast

• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay + ~12% still red wine
• Style: Non-vintage Rosé Brut
• Dosage: 10 g/L
• Format: 750ml
• Best for: Aperitif, celebrations, light starters, strawberries and cream

Faust Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2023

Faust is one of Napa Valley’s most compelling Cabernet estates — a project rooted in the belief that great wine speaks distinctly of place. Named for the legendary scholar who pursued knowledge and excellence above all else, Faust channels that same relentless ambition into every vintage. The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 20 months in 25% new French oak — a restrained approach that preserves the purity and minerality of the fruit rather than masking it with wood. The 2023 vintage was a cool year in Napa, and Faust is a cool-climate estate: the combination produced a wine of real nerve, structure, and approachability, with ample aging potential. As Estate Director Jen Beloz puts it: “There is purity, intensity, and a savory minerality to every vintage.”

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is refined and expressive: red and dark fruit, crushed stones, dried herbs, flowers, and a whisper of salt-cured meat — a savory complexity that sets Faust apart from the valley’s more opulent styles. On the palate, it is tightly woven with a silken mouthfeel — earthy red and black fruits, leafy underbrush, tobacco, and chocolate, framed by fine tannins, balanced structure, and a succulent, minerally finish of outstanding length. Medium to full-bodied, structured, and built to age.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 96 Points
“Aromas of red and dark fruit, crushed stones, dried herbs, flowers and salt-cured meat. The palate is tightly woven with a silken mouthfeel, fine tannins and a succulent, minerally finish. A wine of real nerve and approachability young, with ample aging potential. A good example of what a cool vintage in a cool appellation can produce.”

Jeb Dunnuck — 91 Points
“Based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged 20 months in 25% new French oak, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is solid, offering earthy red and black fruits intermixed with leafy underbrush, tobacco, and chocolate. It’s medium to full-bodied, has a balanced mouthfeel, and shows the more structured style of the vintage with outstanding length.”

• Producer: Faust, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 20 months in 25% new French oak
• Style: Precise, mineral-driven, structured Napa Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red and dark fruit, crushed stones, dried herbs, salt-cured meat, tobacco, chocolate, minerally finish
• Drink Window: Now–2035+
• Best Paired With: Braised short ribs, roast lamb, duck confit, wild mushroom dishes, aged hard cheeses

Napa Cabernet with purity, nerve, and a savory soul — Faust 2023 is the antidote to over-extracted California Cab.

One of Tuscany's most celebrated organic estates, Fontodi Chianti Classico Organic 2020 is a benchmark expression of 100% Sangiovese from the heart of Panzano's legendary Conca d'Oro — the "Golden Shell" — a privileged south-facing amphitheater of vineyards in the Chianti Classico DOCG. Certified organic, structured, and deeply terroir-driven, this is Chianti Classico at its most authentic and compelling.

Fontodi & the Conca d'Oro

Fontodi has been certified organic for decades, farming 100% Sangiovese with an unwavering commitment to terroir expression and minimal intervention. Situated in Panzano's Conca d'Oro — a sun-drenched bowl of south-facing vineyards considered among the finest sites in all of Chianti Classico — the estate produces wines of remarkable energy, structure, and longevity. The 2020 vintage is slightly more reserved and structured than recent opulent years, offering a classic, high-energy profile that rewards decanting or further cellaring.

Critical Acclaim — 2020 Vintage

94 Points — James Suckling: "Subtle aromas of sliced strawberries and cherries with some orange peel follow through to a medium body with succulent tannins and a bright and tangy finish. Lovely energy in this one. So good now. From organically grown grapes."

93 Points — Wine Spectator: "Rich and velvety, laced with black cherry, blackberry, violet and mineral flavors. Driven by vibrant acidity and backed by well-mannered tannins. Shows excellent balance and length."

92 Points — Decanter: "This flagship Chianti Classico from the renowned Fontodi estate has not lost its identity, deeply rooted in a sun-drenched stretch of Panzano's Conca d'Oro. The 2020 version has all the ripe dark fruit and assertive tannins that come so neatly into balance. It finishes with its signature bitter liquorice twist."

92+ Points — Vinous (Antonio Galloni): "The 2020 Chianti Classico offers notable tension to balance the natural richness that is such a signature here. Dark red cherry, leather, spice, rose petal, dried herbs and wild flowers all grace this nuanced Chianti Classico. I would not plan on opening this too young."

91 Points — Wine Advocate: "A certified organic wine, the Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico shows dark fruit and blackberry with earthy sensations of crushed stone that reflect the schistous soils found in this area of the appellation. Drinking 2023–2030."

17++ — Jancis Robinson: "100% Sangiovese. Certified organic. Lots of juice on the palate and plenty of grainy but ripe tannins in perfect harmony with the succulent fruit. Drinking 2023–2032."

Tasting Profile

Youthful ruby with vibrant clarity. The nose is subtle and enticing — sliced strawberry, dark cherry, rose petal, dried herbs, leather, and a hint of baked earth. On the palate it's medium to full-bodied with succulent, grainy tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long finish with a signature bitter liquorice twist. Classic Sangiovese energy and precision.

Details

2020 | 100% Sangiovese | Panzano, Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy | Certified Organic | 750ml

Food Pairings & Serving

Decant 30–45 minutes. Serve at 61–64°F. A natural match for bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roasted lamb, and aged Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano. Drinking beautifully now through 2032.

André Montessuy — Bourgogne Rouge 2023

André Montessuy is a négociant-éleveur based in Burgundy, producing approachable, terroir-honest wines from across the region. The Bourgogne Rouge is their entry-level Pinot Noir — sourced from limestone soils mixed with clay and marl, the classic subsoil of the Côte d’Or — and vinified with care: sorted by hand, cold pre-fermentation maceration for three days, then 12 days of alcoholic fermentation with twice-daily pump-overs and punch-downs to extract color and structure without aggression. Aged 10 to 12 months before bottling.

The 2023 is a textbook village-level Burgundy at a regional price. Dominant fruitiness on the nose — blackcurrant, cherry, blackberry — with a small spicy note. The palate is supple and round, with melted tannins, good length, and a lot of finesse. This is the bottle you reach for when you want honest Pinot Noir without the Burgundy premium.

• Producer: André Montessuy, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Bourgogne Rouge AOC
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Terroir: Limestone, clay, and marl soils
• Vinification: Hand-sorted, 3-day cold maceration, 12-day fermentation, pump-overs & punch-downs
• Aging: 10–12 months
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, cherry, blackberry, spice, supple tannins, long finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled or roasted red meats, cold cuts, pot-au-feu, veal, poultry tarts, Gouda

Honest Burgundy at $24 — André Montessuy's Bourgogne Rouge is the everyday Pinot Noir that punches well above its appellation.

Mora & Memo "Tino" Vermentino di Sardegna — Sardinia, Italy 2024

Mora & Memo is the project of Elisabetta Pala, one of Sardinia's most celebrated winemakers, working from her family estate in Serdiana in the southeastern corner of the island. The winery is instantly recognizable by its iconic "Bandida" label — a stylized woman in traditional Sardinian dress — a symbol of the estate's balance between deep-rooted heritage and contemporary winemaking vision. Their Vermentino di Sardegna is a striking, modern expression of Sardinia's signature white grape: aromatic, textured, and mineral, with the kind of island freshness that makes it one of the most compelling Italian whites at any price. James Suckling awarded it 94 points.

The nose is clean and intensely aromatic: sliced lemon, green apple, white flowers, rosemary, thyme, and sage, with a delicate mineral underpinning from the island's ancient soils. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully textured — juicy acidity, a warm, full mouthfeel, and a long, mineral-laced finish with persistent vegetal and herbal notes. It is everything a great Sardinian Vermentino should be: vibrant, complex, and deeply satisfying.

James Suckling 94 — "A clean floral nose of sliced lemons, apples and white flowers with mineral nuances. The medium-bodied palate is textured and nicely framed, with juicy acidity and a mineral-laced finish."

• Producer: Mora & Memo (Elisabetta Pala), Serdiana, Sardinia, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Vermentino di Sardegna DOC
• Region: Sardinia, Italy
• Varietal: 100% Vermentino
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, green apple, white flowers, rosemary, thyme, sage, mineral, juicy acidity, long herbal finish
• Best Paired With: Fritto misto, grilled sea bass, pasta with clams and bottarga, pesto, herb-heavy dishes, creamy vegetable soups

A 94-point Sardinian Vermentino from one of the island's most distinctive estates — Mora & Memo is the benchmark for what modern, terroir-driven Vermentino di Sardegna can deliver.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 94 Points | Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, dried strawberries, dried orange peel, spices and crushed stones. Medium to full body with compact, firm, finely grained tannins. Smooth and textured with vivid fruit underneath and a lingering finish. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Rich ruby color. A selection from the best vineyards, aged for two years. Toasted cedar, cherry lozenge, menthol, and spiced orange peel. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins folding into a mineral texture, mouthwatering stony earth, and a long, clean finish.

Robert Parker | Wine Advocate 93 Points | Ripe fruit with measured intensity that never feels heavy or overdone — achieving this level of balance is not easy in a hot growing season. Characterized by an especially linear and direct personality that pushes over the palate with good momentum.

Wine Spectator 90 Points | Juicy yet firmly structured with bright cherry and blackberry fruit. Dense tannins inform the finish with accents of earth and mineral. Balanced in a youthful, exuberant way. Best 2025–2039.

Winemaker Notes

Ruby red with a trace of garnet. Elegant nose displaying hints of spice and fruit. Well-structured with smooth tannins and a long finish. Certified organic Sangiovese from one of Chianti Classico’s most historic and beautiful estates.

Tasting & Pairings

Ripe cherry, dried strawberry, orange peel, crushed stones, cedar, menthol, and spice. Medium to full body with firm, finely grained tannins and a mineral finish. Decant or cellar through 2039.

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina or grilled lamb — the classic Tuscan pairing for a Riserva of this caliber.
• Wild boar ragù or pappardelle with meat sauce — the tannin structure and earthy notes complement rich, slow-cooked sauces.
• Aged Pecorino Toscano — a regional cheese that mirrors the wine’s earthy, mineral character.