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Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points: Classic granite notes of cassis and darker cherries, graphite, crushed stone, pepper, and violets all emerge from the 2023 Saint Joseph Offerus. Medium-bodied, focused, and beautifully balanced on the palate, with textbook Saint Joseph tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a crisp, mineral-laced finish. Will evolve nicely over the coming 8–10 years.

Winemaker Description

Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Saint Joseph OFFERUS 2023 750ml

The Offerus is produced by Chave Sélection, the négociant arm of the legendary Chave family — one of the Northern Rhône’s most revered dynasties. While the Domaine’s own Saint-Joseph commands upwards of $130, the Offerus delivers a similar pedigree and granite-driven terroir character at a fraction of the price. Pure Syrah sourced from the granitic hillsides of Saint-Joseph, it is a benchmark insider value in the appellation and a testament to the Chave family’s uncompromising standards across every tier of their portfolio.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Grilled lamb chops with herbes de Provence, roasted duck breast, or beef daube.
• Classic French: Hearty cassoulet, charcuterie board, or braised short ribs with olives.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Saint-Nectaire, or a firm washed-rind cheese.

The Queen of Teroldego, at Her Finest

Elisabetta Foradori is one of Italy's most visionary winemakers — a pioneer who single-handedly rescued the ancient Teroldego grape from obscurity and elevated it to world-class status. Farming biodynamically in the dramatic foothills of the Dolomites in Trentino, her minimal-intervention approach produces wines of extraordinary purity, character, and sense of place.

This is the estate's flagship red: a wine that is simultaneously wild and precise, generous and structured — a benchmark for what indigenous Italian varieties can achieve in the right hands.

67 Wine Review

"Savory, earthy and slightly wild in style, Elisabetta Foradori sculpts one of Italy's finest natural wines. Luscious dark fruits and violets on the nose pick up some spice and wild herbs on the palate. Medium bodied with good depth of flavor and detailed complexity that winds through the finish with purity and a touch of exotic funk."
— Bart Hopkins, 67wino.shop

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Luscious dark fruits, violets, and wild herbs
• Palate: Savory, earthy, and slightly wild — spice, dark cherry, and a touch of exotic funk
• Structure: Medium-bodied with high acidity, moderate tannins, and excellent depth
• Finish: Long, pure, and complex

Vineyard & Vinification

• Grape: 100% Teroldego
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Appellation: Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT, Trentino, Italy
• Producer: Foradori, Campo Rotaliano
• Vintage: 2024
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for Alpine cuisine: speck, Fontina, and rye bread; tagliatelle with wild boar ragù; roasted duck with cherry reduction; herb-crusted pork loin. Also exceptional with mushroom polenta or roasted beets with goat cheese.

Winemaker Description

Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel is grown from some of the oldest vines in California — untamed, gnarled vines that produce full-flavored, concentrated grapes dense with character. The nose opens with aromas of blackberry bramble, juicy plum, and toasted oak. On the palate, this medium-bodied Zinfandel delivers balanced acidity and supple tannins, with a bold, eclectic edge that sets it apart from the crowd.

Pairing Suggestions

• BBQ & Grilled: Rich and tangy BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, or grilled sausages.
• Spiced Dishes: Chili, mini stuffed peppers, or spiced lamb kebabs.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar, smoked Gouda, or aged Monterey Jack.

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

Full-bodied, even robust, with a capacity to age but with such supple smoothness that it can be eminently drinkable even when young.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

Vinous (Eric Guido) 91 Points: Entices with a cascade of violets and lavender before giving way to wild blueberries and hints of wet stone. Round and juicy in style with standout minerality, as crisp wildberry fruits settle on the senses. A slight citrus twang and blue inner florals remain as a bump of juicy acidity maintains fantastic freshness. Just 11.8% abv.

Wine Spectator (Alison Napjus) 90 Points: A pure beam of wild strawberry and cherry fruit flavors accented by pretty violet, sweet tobacco, anise and mineral notes. Light- to medium-bodied yet offers focus and length. Drink now through 2030.

Winemaker Description

Speri Valpolicella Classico Organic 2024 750ml

A young, vibrant expression of Valpolicella Classico from the Speri family — one of the Veneto’s most respected organic producers, certified since 2015. Ruby red with purplish highlights, the wine opens with an intense bouquet of violets and cherries. Medium-bodied and fruity with a lively, mineral-driven character, it is made to be enjoyed young and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. At just 11.8% abv, it is as versatile as it is elegant.

Pairing Suggestions

• Antipasti & Starters: Charcuterie, bruschetta, or prosciutto e melone.
• Pasta & Risotto: Tagliatelle al ragù, pasta e fagioli, or mushroom risotto.
• Cheese: Fresh mozzarella, mild Asiago, or a young Pecorino.

Domaine Christophe Mittnacht Pinot Blanc — Alsace, France 2024

Domaine Mittnacht is one of Alsace's most respected and pioneering family estates — founded in 1958 and today led by Christophe and Yuka Mittnacht from their base in Hunawihr, a village at the heart of the Alsace wine route surrounded by some of the region's finest vineyard sites. Christophe was an early pioneer of the biodynamic movement in Alsace, believing that biologically complex, complete soils are essential for producing elegant, terroir-driven wines. The domaine was officially certified biodynamic in 1999 — one of the very first in all of Alsace — and continues to farm with minimal intervention, using neutral wood and tank to let the soil sing. Their old vine holdings include the Grand Cru Rosacker (where the fabled Clos-St.-Hune is located), as well as excellent sites between Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr. Christophe harvests balanced fruit and deliberately avoids the excesses of alcohol and residual sugar that can mask the freshness and florality that make Alsace so special.

The Pinot Blanc is a richer style, yet still fresh and elegant — a hallmark of Mittnacht's biodynamic approach. Mouthwatering acidity enlivens flavors of citrus, apricot, and lemon zest, leading to a stony and floral finish that is unmistakably Alsatian. Precise, expressive, and beautifully delicate.

"A richer style of Pinot Blanc, yet still fresh and elegant. Mouthwatering acidity enlivens flavors of citrus, apricot and lemon zest, leading to a stony and floral finish." — Domaine Mittnacht, Winemaker

• Producer: Domaine Christophe Mittnacht, Hunawihr, Alsace, France (est. 1958)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Alsace AOC
• Varietal: Pinot Blanc
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic (since 1999)
• Winemaking: Minimal intervention, neutral wood and tank
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, apricot, lemon zest, mouthwatering acidity, stony and floral finish
• Style: Medium-bodied, fresh, elegant, dry
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, oysters, choucroute garnie, roast chicken, soft cheeses, asparagus, light pasta

Biodynamic Alsace Pinot Blanc from one of the region's pioneering estates — Mittnacht 2024 is fresh, floral, and a benchmark of what organic farming can achieve in Alsace.

Winemaker Description 

Straw yellow color. The nose is intense and delicate with notes of orange blossom, apricot, and peach. On the palate, it is soft, fresh, with a tasty finish and a fruity aftertaste.

From the rolling hills of Umbria, the Antinori Santa Cristina Orvieto Classico Campogrande 2024 is a fresh and vibrant expression of one of Italy’s historic white wine regions, Orvieto Classico. Crafted primarily from traditional local varieties including Grechetto and Procanico (the local name for Trebbiano Toscano), this wine captures the bright, easygoing character that has made Orvieto famous for centuries.

Pale straw in color, it opens with inviting aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, green apple, and delicate floral notes. The palate is crisp and refreshing, showing lively acidity and flavors of lemon, pear, and subtle almond, finishing clean and mineral-driven.

Perfect as an aperitif or paired with seafood, light pasta dishes, salads, and fresh cheeses, this classic Italian white offers both elegance and everyday drinkability.

A refreshing, food-friendly white that showcases the timeless charm of Orvieto.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 91 Points | A delicious, round and silky white with aromas of fresh lemons, white peaches and warm spices on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with moderate acidity. Supple, with a mineral undertone at the center and a succulent finish.

Winemaker Description 

Insolia grapes are manually selected in the Nordic microclimate of Ficuzza, Cusumano's largest vineyard, located in Northern Sicily. Light straw color with soft aromas of freshly-picked flowers and herbs. This Insolia opens the palate with refreshing flavors of apples and pears. Hints of citrus zest lingers throughout for a harmonious balance.

Pairs with lighter dishes such as salads or seafood.

Memo Summary Notes

The Cusumano Insolia 2023 is a refreshing, light-bodied Sicilian white wine that offers fantastic value. Grown in the high-altitude Ficuzza vineyard in northern Sicily, it’s known for its crisp acidity and Mediterranean flair, often serving as a great alternative to Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Pair with seafood appetizers, sushi, grilled branzino, or pasta with clams.

Vera Vinho Verde Branco 2025 750ml

Discover the delight of Vera Vinho Verde Branco, a refreshing and vibrant Portuguese white wine that tantalizes the taste buds with its unique flavor profile. This wine is characterized by its bright acidity and delightful notes of citrus and green apple, with clean, lively flavors of lime, ripe pink and yellow grapefruit. The slight effervescence adds a refreshing sparkle, making it a perfect choice for warm summer days and a favorite at gatherings.

Winemaker's Description

Arinto brings bright acidity and aging potential, Azal is citric and fresh and Loureiro is aromatic and delicate.

Three Grape Blend

This Vinho Verde is a blend of three classic Portuguese grape varieties: Arinto, Azal, and Loureiro. Each grape contributes unique characteristics that create a harmonious and complex wine.

Arinto - Bright Acidity & Aging Potential

Arinto brings bright acidity and aging potential to the blend. This grape provides the wine's crisp backbone and ensures freshness, making it both enjoyable now and capable of short-term aging.

Azal - Citric & Fresh

Azal is citric and fresh, contributing vibrant citrus character to the wine. This grape adds lively, zesty flavors that make the wine incredibly refreshing.

Loureiro - Aromatic & Delicate

Loureiro is aromatic and delicate, bringing floral and aromatic complexity to the blend. This grape adds elegance and perfume to the wine's bouquet.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Pale yellow hue with slight effervescence
Aroma: Citrus, green apple, floral notes, aromatic and delicate character
Palate: Clean, lively flavors of lime, ripe pink and yellow grapefruit. Bright acidity with light body and crisp finish. Subtle hints of mineral undertones
Finish: Crisp, refreshing finish with slight effervescence

Clean, Lively Flavors

Clean, lively flavors of lime, ripe pink and yellow grapefruit define this refreshing wine. The purity of fruit expression is characteristic of quality Vinho Verde.

Lime, Pink & Yellow Grapefruit

Flavors of lime, ripe pink and yellow grapefruit create a vibrant citrus profile. These bright fruit notes make the wine incredibly food-friendly and refreshing.

Slight Effervescence

Slight effervescence adds a refreshing sparkle and liveliness to the wine. This gentle fizz is a hallmark of traditional Vinho Verde and enhances the wine's refreshing character.

Bright Acidity

Characterized by its bright acidity that provides structure and freshness. The acidity makes this wine perfect for pairing with food and ensures it's thirst-quenching.

Citrus & Green Apple Notes

Delightful notes of citrus and green apple create an inviting flavor profile. These classic Vinho Verde characteristics make the wine approachable and enjoyable.

Mineral Undertones

The subtle hints of mineral undertones add depth to the wine, enhancing its overall experience. This minerality reflects the terroir of Portugal's Vinho Verde region.

Light Body & Crisp Finish

Light body and crisp finish make it incredibly enjoyable and easy to drink. The wine's refreshing nature makes it perfect for warm weather and casual occasions.

2024 Vintage Quality

This 2024 vintage of Vera Vinho Verde Branco showcases the freshness and vibrancy that defines great Vinho Verde. The wine is meant to be enjoyed young to capture its lively character.

Portuguese Vinho Verde Region

From Portugal's Vinho Verde region, known for producing refreshing, slightly effervescent white wines. This region in northwest Portugal has a cool, maritime climate ideal for these grape varieties.

Versatile Food Pairing

This wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Light salads
• Grilled fish and seafood
• Spicy Asian cuisine
• Sushi and sashimi
• Shellfish
• Fresh oysters
• Light appetizers
• Goat cheese

Perfect for Summer Days

A perfect choice for those warm summer days, making it a favorite at summer picnics, beach parties, and garden gatherings. The refreshing characteristics make it ideal for outdoor entertaining.

Ideal for Gatherings

Imagine relaxing on a sunny afternoon, sipping on this delightful wine while sharing meals with friends and family. Whether it's a casual barbecue or a formal dinner, Vera Vinho Verde Branco is the ideal companion.

Serve Chilled

Served chilled, this wine elevates any occasion, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Serve at 45-50°F for optimal enjoyment.

Pale Yellow Hue

As you pour it into your glass, the pale yellow hue captivates your senses. The wine's appearance signals its freshness and quality.

Enticing Aromas

The moment the cork pops, the enticing aromas fill the air, inviting you to take the first sip. The aromatic complexity from Loureiro creates an inviting bouquet.

Adds Elegance & Joy

Whether you are celebrating a special milestone or simply unwinding after a long day, Vera Vinho Verde Branco adds a touch of elegance and joy to your lifestyle. This wine impresses wine lovers and casual drinkers alike.

Au Bon Climat | Santa Barbara County, California | Chardonnay | 2023

Jim Clendenen's Au Bon Climat has long been California's benchmark for the Burgundian approach to Chardonnay — prioritizing balance, acidity, and minerality over heavy oak and butter. The 2023 is sourced from five carefully farmed Santa Barbara vineyards: Bien Nacido, Los Alamos, Rancho Real, Gold Coast, and North Canyon. Handpicked and whole-cluster pressed, the juice is barrel-fermented and aged 8 months sur lie in neutral François Frères barrels, then blended the following summer. The result is round, bright, and unmistakably ABC.

Vineyards: Bien Nacido, Los Alamos, Rancho Real, Gold Coast, North Canyon
Oak: 8 months sur lie, neutral French oak (François Frères)
Drink: Now–2029

Tasting Notes

• Grapefruit, peach, honeysuckle, and lemon curd on the nose
• Round mid-palate with elderberry, brioche, and a hint of nutmeg
• Zippy, bright acidity | Creamy lingering finish | Mineral backbone

Pairings: Roast chicken, pasta alfredo, seared scallops, baked brie en croûte

Winemaker Description

Columbia Crest H3 Red Blend is focused and generous, open-textured and inviting. Sourced from Horse Heaven Hills — one of Washington State's most celebrated AVAs — this approachable yet complex red blend delivers cherry, currant, red plum, and raspberry jam flavors with a smooth, well-rounded finish.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in color with aromas of ripe dark cherry, blackcurrant, and a hint of toasted oak. The palate is plush and fruit-forward with flavors of red plum, raspberry jam, and subtle spice. Medium-bodied with soft tannins and a smooth, lingering finish.

Food Pairings

Pairs beautifully with grilled burgers, BBQ ribs, roasted chicken, pasta with meat sauce, and aged cheddar. A versatile everyday red from one of Washington's most trusted producers.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2021
Region: Horse Heaven Hills, Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA
Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills AVA
Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
Producer: Columbia Crest
Style: Red Blend, Dry, Medium-Bodied

Winemaker Notes

Black cherry, blackberry, and chocolate aromas, complemented by hints of dried culinary herbs, provide a fruit-forward, savory profile. The palate displays balanced flavors of black currant, mocha, and vanilla, leading to an elegant, velvety finish.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with purple hues
• Nose: Black cherry, blackberry, dark chocolate and dried culinary herbs
• Palate: Black currant, mocha and vanilla with smooth, well-integrated tannins
• Finish: Elegant and velvety with lingering fruit and spice

Production Details

• Winery: Kendall-Jackson
• Region: California (Sonoma County)
• Classification: Vintner's Reserve
• Blend: 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec
• Vintage: 2023 | Format: 750ml

Kendall-Jackson's Vintner's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from premier California wine regions, delivering consistent quality and approachable elegance vintage after vintage. Pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta dishes.

RouteStock | Pinot Noir | Sonoma Coast AVA | California | 2023

RouteStock is a California label built around the idea that great wine should be accessible — that world-class terroir doesn’t have to come with a world-class price tag. Their Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir draws from one of California’s most celebrated cool-climate appellations, where Pacific fog and coastal winds push grapes to their expressive limits. The 2023 is a textbook example of what makes this region so compelling: complexity, tension, and a savory depth that punches well above its price.

The nose is brooding and aromatic — dried herbs, toasted hazelnuts, blood orange peel, and a whisper of lavender. On the palate, bright red-cherry acidity and crunchy minerality frame an appealing umami core, with flavors of shiitake mushroom, bay laurel, brambly berries, and cooked red and blackberries woven through with woodsy spice. Rich and complex, yet bright and inviting — a Sonoma Coast Pinot that delivers far beyond its price point.

• Producer: RouteStock
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA, California
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023
• Size: 750ml
• Pairings: Roast duck, grilled salmon, herb-crusted pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, charcuterie with prosciutto and mild cheeses

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2023 

• The Tasting Panel — 92 pts: Punches way above its price. Savory tilled earth and loam, red-cherry acidity, crunchy minerality, and an umami core with brambly berries and woodsy spice.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

Jane Anson (Inside Bordeaux) 91 Points | Crisp citrus, white pear, a ton of peach juice, slate, cloves, this is unfussy, easy drinking, and great value. Pierre Lurton home estate.

James Suckling 91 Points | Light, crispy stone fruit with gooseberries and guava. Dry, this has light to medium body and good acidity. Medium finish.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni/Neal Martin) 90 Points | Just bottled, the 2024 Marjosse is pretty hard to beat for its quality and price. Brisk, dry and inviting... White flowers, citrus peel, mint and almond linger."

Albert Mann Gewurztraminer Biodynamic — Alsace 2022

Domaine Albert Mann is heralded the world over as one of Alsace's top-tier producers. Guided by certified organic and biodynamic farming, the Domaine cultivates precisely controlled yields from estate fruit averaging 35 years old, coaxing grapes of elevated maturity and complexity from Alsace's storied soils. Never heavy, clumsy, or out of balance, each carefully crafted vintage presents a beautiful delineation of flavors and precise textures that are unmistakably Albert Mann.

The 2022 Gewurztraminer opens with rich aromas of yellow rose, lychee, and exotic spice, followed by a palate of remarkable elegance — a delicate creaminess, beautifully integrated touch of sweetness, and a freshness rarely seen in this grape variety. The finish is long, aromatic, and poised. From biodynamically grown grapes.

James Suckling 93 — “Rich and very elegant, with a lovely interplay of yellow rose aromas, delicate creaminess and remarkably elegant acidity. Drink or hold.”

• Producer: Domaine Albert Mann, Alsace, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Alsace AOC
• Varietal: 100% Gewurztraminer
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Vine Age: Averaging 35 years
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Yellow rose, lychee, exotic spice, cream, integrated sweetness, elegant acidity
• Best Paired With: Spiced Asian cuisine, foie gras, Munster cheese, roasted pork with fruit, Thai curry

A benchmark Alsace Gewurztraminer from one of the region’s most committed biodynamic estates — expressive, elegant, and built to impress.

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 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.

Bassermann-Jordan Riesling Trocken — Pfalz, Germany 2024

Bassermann-Jordan is one of Germany's most historic and prestigious wine estates — a founding member of the VDP, Germany's elite organization of top quality wine producers, and a name synonymous with the finest dry Riesling from the Pfalz. The estate's roots in Deidesheim stretch back to 1718, when Pierre Jordan purchased the family's first vineyards in the Pfalz. Johann-Peter Jordan built the winery in Deidesheim 65 years later, and around the turn of the century, Andreas Jordan elevated quality winemaking in the region by becoming one of the first growers to plant single varieties by vineyard and vinify each vineyard separately — a revolutionary approach that set the standard for precision winemaking in Germany. A marriage between the Bassermann and Jordan families added the Bassermann name in 1883, cementing the estate's place at the pinnacle of Pfalz winemaking. Today, the estate farms organically, bringing the same commitment to quality and terroir expression to every bottle.

The Riesling Trocken is the estate's classic dry Pfalz expression — a wine that shows the style of the house and the typicality of the different soils around the winery. Fine fruit, elegant acidity, and gripping minerality define the palate — dry, focused, and unmistakably Pfalz. Clean and precise on the finish, with the kind of mineral backbone that makes great German Riesling so compelling at the table.

"A dry Palatinate Riesling with fine fruit, elegant acidity and gripping minerality — it shows the style of the house and the typicality of the different soils around the winery." — Bassermann-Jordan, Winemaker

• Producer: Bassermann-Jordan, Deidesheim, Pfalz, Germany
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Pfalz, Germany
• Classification: VDP member estate
• Varietal: 100% Riesling
• Style: Trocken (Dry)
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fine fruit, elegant acidity, gripping minerality, dry and focused, clean mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, sushi, oysters, roast pork, Asian cuisine, soft cheeses, aperitivo

VDP Pfalz Riesling from one of Germany's oldest estates — Bassermann-Jordan Trocken 2024 is dry, mineral, and organically farmed.

Bogle Vineyards · Essential Red · California · 2023 · 750ml

Bogle Vineyards has been farming the Sacramento Valley since 1968, and the Essential Red is the wine that best captures their philosophy: exceptional quality at an honest price. Sourced from estate vineyards spanning Dunnigan Hills, Clarksburg, and Lodi, the 2023 vintage benefited from a long, temperate summer and extended hang time that allowed for slow, even ripening across all varieties. The blend — 44% Petite Sirah, 32% Teroldego, 15% Syrah, and 9% Zinfandel — is aged for twelve months in a combination of American and French oak, adding warmth and structure without sacrificing the wine's natural generosity. Certified by the California Rules for Sustainable Winegrowing, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free. At $9.78, this is one of California's most compelling everyday reds.

Deep, boldly colored ruby in the glass with an expressive nose of bramble berry, ripe plum, boysenberry, and black currant, layered with warm accents of vanilla, mocha, and a hint of tiramisu from the oak aging. On the palate: generous and full-bodied, with an enveloping mouthfeel and a long, composed finish marked by refined, chalky tannins that provide structure while keeping the wine approachable. Pair with barbecue ribs, seared duck breast, rich pasta with truffle oil and parmesan, or anything off the grill.

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards (est. 1968, Sacramento Valley)
• Wine: Essential Red · California
• Vintage: 2023
• Origin: Dunnigan Hills · Clarksburg · Lodi, California
• Blend: 44% Petite Sirah, 32% Teroldego, 15% Syrah, 9% Zinfandel
• Oak: 12 months · American & French oak
• Style: Full-bodied, approachable California red blend
• Certifications: Sustainable · Vegan-Friendly · Gluten-Free
• Drinking Window: Now–2027
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Bramble berry, ripe plum, boysenberry, black currant, vanilla, mocha, tiramisu, chalky tannins, long finish
• Pair With: BBQ ribs · Seared duck breast · Truffle pasta · Grilled meats

Sustainable farming, Sacramento Valley soul — California's best-kept everyday red.

Winemaker Description

The Pazo de La Cuesta Godello Ribeira Sacra Blanco 2023 is a Galician white of excellent expression, crafted from hand-harvested Godello grapes in the steep, terraced vineyards of Ribeira Sacra. After destemming, the grapes undergo cold pre-fermentation maceration for 6 hours, followed by slow fermentation in stainless steel below 20°C for 60–70 days. The wine then ages for 4 months on fine lees with weekly rackings, building texture and complexity while preserving freshness.

Tasting Notes

Bright pale yellow with a steely rim. The nose is subtle and delicate — white flowers, stone fruit, citrus, and a touch of anise. On the palate, rich and fresh with excellent balance, vibrant acidity, and a long, pleasantly bitter finish that is the hallmark of great Godello.

Pairing Suggestions

• Seafood: Grilled scallops, steamed clams, octopus a la gallega, or grilled branzino.
• Light dishes: Goat cheese, white asparagus, or a simple roast chicken with herbs.
• Aperitif: Serve well chilled — a natural match for Galician tapas.

Winemaker Description

The 2023 Brewer-Clifton Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir displays enticing aromas of pomegranate, white tea, and raspberry. Lively and energetic on the palate with flavors of dried fig, white truffle, and ripe cherry fruit. Savory in texture, with notes of wild herbs and peppery spice lingering on the finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roasted duck with cherry glaze, herb-roasted chicken, or quail with mushroom sauce.
• Meat: Lamb chops with wild herbs, pork tenderloin with fig reduction.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère, Brie de Meaux, or a mild washed-rind cheese.

ZD Wines Chardonnay — California 2023

ZD Wines has been crafting benchmark California Chardonnay for over 55 years, and the 2023 vintage — the estate’s 55th harvest — is a landmark expression of everything the house does best. Sourced from certified-organic grapes across three premier coastal appellations — Napa Carneros, Sonoma Carneros, and Monterey — the fruit is hand-harvested at night to preserve freshness, then 100% barrel-fermented in ZD’s custom-designed cellar at a cool 48°F. This long, cool fermentation maximizes lees contact for richness and depth while deliberately avoiding malolactic fermentation to preserve the wine’s signature bright coastal acidity. Ten months in 100% American oak adds complexity and the house’s hallmark crème brûlée finish. The 2023 earned 90 points and three Gold Medals in 2025 — Los Angeles Invitational, San Francisco Chronicle, and Pacific Rim International.

The color is pale yellow with a luminous hue. The nose bursts with ripe Asian pear, green apple, honeydew melon, pink grapefruit, and nectarine. On the palate, it is vibrant and richly textured — lemon curd, guava, and white peach are framed by mouthwatering acidity and a long, complex finish of crème brûlée and vanillin. Sunshine in a glass.

90 Points • Gold Medal — Los Angeles Invitational Wine Challenge 2025
Gold Medal — San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2025
Gold Medal — Pacific Rim International Wine Competition 2025

• Producer: ZD Wines, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023 (55th Harvest)
• Appellation: California
• Sources: Napa Carneros, Sonoma Carneros, Monterey — certified organic
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Harvest: Hand-harvested at night
• Vinification: 100% barrel-fermented at 48°F, no malolactic fermentation, 10 months in 100% American oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Asian pear, green apple, honeydew, pink grapefruit, lemon curd, guava, white peach, crème brûlée, vanillin, long finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster, grilled halibut, crab cakes, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses

Fifty-five harvests, three gold medals, and zero malolactic fermentation — ZD’s California Chardonnay is the benchmark that keeps raising the bar.

Winemaker Notes

The 2023 Far Niente Chardonnay enchants with a bouquet of citrus, white floral, and hints of honeydew melon and nectarine. Its silky texture and bright, refreshing palate dance with flavors of lemon/lime zest and lemon verbena, culminating in a long, juicy finish.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

Tasting Panel — 97 Points
"The combination of Carneros’ maritime climate and the volcanic soils of Coombsville lends a hand in creating one of the most deluxe Chardonnays our team has had the pleasure of tasting. Augmented by sweet vanilla cream, elderflower, and white cherry, the mouthfeel is exquisitely graceful, and notes of key lime, herbed lemon, and luscious ripe pineapple are opulent to the end. Aged sur lie in French oak barrels."

James Suckling — 93 Points
"Pure aromas of lemon confit, poached Asian pears, pastry and lanolin. The palate is medium-bodied with focused acidity and a creamy texture, giving notes of lime curd, orange blossoms, yellow apples and flint. Very well constructed and polished."

Forbes Magazine (Jeanette Hurt)
"A blend of superlative Napa Valley vineyards located in Coombsville. The 2023 vintage enchants with a bouquet of citrus, white floral, and hints of honeydew melon and nectarine. Its silky texture and bright, refreshing palate dance with flavors of lemon/lime zest and lemon verbena, culminating in a long, juicy finish."

About Far Niente

Far Niente is one of Napa Valley’s most iconic and historic estates, founded in 1885 and restored to its current glory in 1979 by Gil Nickel. The name — Italian for “dolce far niente,” or “the sweetness of doing nothing” — reflects the estate’s philosophy of unhurried, meticulous winemaking. Far Niente’s Estate Chardonnay is sourced from their own vineyards in Coombsville and Carneros, two of Napa’s coolest and most prized white wine growing areas. Aged sur lie in French oak barrels, it is consistently one of California’s benchmark Chardonnays — rich, precise, and built to age.

Food Pairings

Lobster, Dungeness crab, pan-seared halibut, roasted chicken with cream sauce, risotto, soft ripened cheeses, and truffle dishes. A luxurious Chardonnay built for the finest occasions.

Product Details

• Producer: Far Niente
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Vineyards: Coombsville & Carneros
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Aging: Sur lie, French oak barrels
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Rich, precise, age-worthy Napa Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml

Álvaro Palacios | Camins del Priorat | Priorat DOQ | Catalonia, Spain | 2024

Álvaro Palacios is one of Spain's most celebrated winemakers, the visionary who put Priorat on the world map with his legendary L'Ermita and Finca Dofí. Camins del Priorat — "paths of Priorat" — is his entry into the appellation, but make no mistake: this is a serious wine crafted with the same philosophy and terroir access that defines the estate. The 2024 vintage, a cooler year, yielded a particularly elegant and balsamic expression.

The blend leans into Garnacha (40%) and Cariñena (20%), with Syrah (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Merlot (5%), and a small addition of white grapes — Garnacha Blanca, Picapoll Blanc, and Pedro Ximénez (5%) — adding aromatic lift. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, oak, and concrete, with 28 days of maceration and four months in barriques and oak vats.

Deep purple in the glass, the nose is balsamic and minty with resin, violets, and dark berry. On the palate, warm mulberry, plum, and lingonberry are framed by cinnamon, dried lavender, sage, and sweet paprika, with graphite and cocoa powder accents. Fine, chalky tannins and bright acidity give it a stylish, palate-cleansing finish with excellent length. Juicy, velvety, and built to drink now through 2036.

• Producer: Álvaro Palacios
• Appellation: Priorat DOQ, Catalonia, Spain
• Blend: 40% Garnacha, 20% Cariñena, 20% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 5% white grapes
• Vintage: 2024
• Aging: 4 months in barriques and oak vats
• Drink: Now through 2036
• Production: ~175,000 bottles
• Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2024 

• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: Warm mulberry, plum and lingonberry with cinnamon, dried lavender, graphite and cocoa. Fine, chalky tannins and bright acidity. Stylish and appealing with good length. Drink now through 2036.
• Wine Advocate (Luis Gutiérrez) — 92 pts: Juicy and velvety with finesse and drinkability. Very balsamic and minty nose with hints of resin and violets. Textured and fruit-driven.

St. Francis Chardonnay — Sonoma County, California 2023

St. Francis Winery has been crafting benchmark Sonoma County wines since 1979, and their Chardonnay remains one of the appellation’s most reliable values. The 2023 is a lighter-styled, nimble expression — elegant rather than opulent — with a creamy mouthfeel balanced by refreshing minerality on the finish. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points, calling it a wine that delivers genuine Sonoma character at an honest price.

The nose opens with lemon peel, white flowers, tangerine, butterscotch, and baked apple. On the palate, D’Anjou pear, fresh apple, almond, and Meyer lemon zest emerge with a creamy texture that gives way to a clean, mineral-driven finish with notes of orange blossom and spice.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points — “This lighter-styled and nimble Chard brings aromas of lemon peel, white flowers and tangerine on the nose, giving way to flavors of pear, river rocks, spice and orange blossom on the palate and finish.” — Tom R. Capo

• Producer: St. Francis Winery, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, white flowers, tangerine, baked apple, D’Anjou pear, almond, Meyer lemon zest, orange blossom, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster bisque, creamy pasta, soft cheeses

A 91-point Sonoma Chardonnay that delivers elegance and minerality at an everyday price — St. Francis is the benchmark.

Frank Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2023 — Napa Valley, California

Frank Family Vineyards is one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated estates, with roots tracing back to the historic Larkmead Winery site in Calistoga. Founded by Rich Frank in 1992, the winery has built its reputation on benchmark Napa Cabernet Sauvignon — wines that combine the valley’s signature power and richness with genuine elegance and age-worthiness. The 2023 vintage was a cool, precise year in Napa, producing wines of exceptional freshness and structure.

The 2023 opens with pronounced aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla. On the palate, flavors of black plum, nutmeg, dark chocolate, and a touch of espresso build into a complex, full-bodied structure, anchored by a core of elegant acidity and fine tannins that carry from start to a long, savory finish. James Suckling awarded it 94 points, calling it “a refined and complete example of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon showing all the poise and freshness of the cool vintage.”

James Suckling 94 — “Taut and austere, with a good core of fruit, fine tannins, a textured mouthfeel and balanced acidity, leading to a savory, mouthwatering finish.”

• Producer: Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, Napa Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, cassis, vanilla, black plum, nutmeg, dark chocolate, espresso, elegant acidity
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb, wild mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, Manchego

A benchmark Napa Cabernet at a price that still makes sense — Frank Family delivers every time.

Ravines Dry Riesling — Finger Lakes, New York 2022

Ravines Wine Cellars is one of the Finger Lakes' most celebrated producers, and their Dry Riesling is the wine that put them on the national map. The 2022 is a blend of fruit from two estate sites — 71% from Limestone Springs Vineyard and 29% from Sixteen Falls Vineyard on the eastern side of Seneca Lake — a vintage shaped by a polar vortex winter that dramatically reduced yields and concentrated the fruit. The result earned a remarkable five 91+ point scores across the major critics and landed at #36 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2025.

The wine pours a vibrant golden hue. The nose is classically Finger Lakes: lemon sorbet, Asian pear, white peach, soft blossom, and a delicate current of flint and minerality. On the palate, it's dry and precise — surprisingly plump and rounded yet with a long, vibrant, linear finish. Finished at just 3 grams per liter of residual sugar, this is Riesling that earns its "dry" designation completely.

"Somehow curvy but linear at the same time — and a total bargain for the quality. Editor's Choice." — Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points

• Producer: Ravines Wine Cellars, Finger Lakes, New York
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Finger Lakes AVA
• Vineyards: Limestone Springs (71%) & Sixteen Falls (29%), Seneca Lake
• Varietal: Riesling
• Style: Dry (3 g/L RS)
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: #36 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2025 | JS 92 | WE 92 | Vinous 91 | WA 91 | WS 91
• Tasting Notes: Lemon sorbet, Asian pear, white peach, flint, minerality, vibrant finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled trout, Thai cuisine, aged goat cheese, roast pork

Five 91+ point scores and a Wine Spectator Top 100 ranking — Ravines Dry Riesling is the definitive argument for Finger Lakes as one of America's great white wine regions.

Winemaker Description

Lindeman's Bold Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 45 2025 750ml

One of Australia’s most trusted Cabernet Sauvignons, Lindeman’s Bin 45 delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing character vintage after vintage. Medium-to-full bodied, it combines dark berry fruit and cassis with hints of chocolate and mint — approachable, well-structured, and ideal for everyday enjoyment. The Bin 45 has earned its place as a go-to bottle for those who want reliable Australian Cabernet at an exceptional value.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Grilled ribeye, lamb burgers, or slow-roasted beef brisket.
• BBQ: Smoky BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or grilled sausages.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar, aged Gouda, or a bold blue cheese.

Expert Review

Decanter 89 Points | Very lively, pleasant, and bubbly sparkling wine with a very fine and persistent perlage. Perfect aperitif and the sparkling wine that awaits you at home after a long day.

Winemaker Description 

Appearance : Straw yellow with greenish highlights, a persistent mousse and fine perlage. Fragrance : This wine has a very lively and complex composition of aromas with hints of white fruit, acacia flower and wisteria. Flavour : The well-balanced acidity and sugar level gives the wine good harmony and depth which highlights the aromatic complexity of the fragrance.

Famille Vincent Pouilly-Fuissé Marie Antoinette — Mâconnais, Burgundy 2023

Famille Vincent is the family behind Château Fuissé — one of the most celebrated and historic domaines in Pouilly-Fuissé, and the benchmark producer of the appellation. Located in the village of Fuissé in the Mâconnais, the estate has been in the Vincent family for generations and is today led by Antoine Vincent, who continues the family's commitment to expressing the full potential of Chardonnay on the distinctive limestone and clay soils of southern Burgundy. The Marie Antoinette cuvée is a tribute to Marie-Antoinette Vincent — Antoine's grandmother and a beloved figure in the family's history — crafted to be an approachable, high-quality introduction to the Château Fuissé style: elegant, mineral, and unmistakably Pouilly-Fuissé.

The color is pale yellow with hints of green. The nose offers a touch of oak alongside great finesse and minerality — white flowers, lemon, and apple scents lead into aromas of melon, kiwi, peach, and apricot. On the palate, the wine is fresh, round, and fruity with a lovely mineral backbone and a nicely balanced, long finish. Elegant and complete — a Pouilly-Fuissé that drinks well above its price.

"A touch of oak, lots of finesse and minerality with white flowers, lemon and apple scents. Fresh, round and fruity with aromas of melon, kiwi, peaches and apricot and a nice minerality. Nicely balanced and fresh with a great length." — Famille Vincent, Winemaker

• Producer: Famille Vincent / Château Fuissé, Fuissé, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Pouilly-Fuissé AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Cuvée: Named in tribute to Marie-Antoinette Vincent, grandmother of proprietor Antoine Vincent
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White flowers, lemon, apple, melon, kiwi, peach, apricot, mineral backbone, long balanced finish
• Style: Medium-bodied, fresh, elegant, lightly oaked
• Drink: Now through 2029
• Best Paired With: Seared scallops, grilled fish, roast chicken, veal, soft cheeses, mushroom risotto, light cream sauces

The Château Fuissé pedigree in an approachable, elegant package — Marie Antoinette is Pouilly-Fuissé at its most charming.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 95 Points: Lead pencil and blackcurrant aromas are very impressive. Full-bodied and tannic, but very velvety with fine texture. Lots of pretty fruit. Typical for the appellation. Second wine of Domaine de Chevalier. Try after 2028.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points: More restrained aromatically, yet has outstanding purity in its red and black fruits as well as notes of dried herbs, tobacco, chocolate, and damp earth. Medium-bodied, elegant, balanced, and certainly delicious — a second wine that will benefit from just a year or two of bottle age and shine for a decade.

Vinous 91 Points: Very perfumed, floral bouquet with pressed iris and peony infusing the blackberry and blueberry fruit. Controlled and classic in style. Medium-bodied with concentrated black fruit laced with white pepper and Provençal herbs. Powerful with a generous finish — a superb Deuxième Vin that should give 12–15 years of drinking pleasure.

Wine Advocate 90 Points: Fleshy and demonstrative, bursting with aromas of sweet berries, plums and petals. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, with polished tannins and an expansive finish. Will drink well young.

Winemaker Description

Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for its ability to produce great wines even in unfashionable vintages, thanks to its unique Pessac-Léognan terroir and a draconian selection process in both vineyard and cellar — at times requiring five successive passes through the vines to pick only the ripest possible grapes. L’Esprit de Chevalier, created in 1986 from young vines and vats not destined for the grand vin, is a charming second wine that shares many of the same qualities as Domaine de Chevalier’s flagship — complex, well-balanced, and elegant — with the added advantage of being approachable earlier.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Roasted lamb rack with herbs, beef tenderloin, or duck confit.
• Classic Bordeaux: Lamb chops with truffle jus, venison, or a classic French cassoulet.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Ossau-Iraty, or a firm sheep’s milk cheese.

Castello di Bossi | Chianti Classico Gran Selezione | Organic | 2020

Gran Selezione is the apex of the Chianti Classico pyramid — a single-vineyard or best-barrel selection aged a minimum of 30 months before release. Castello di Bossi's 2020 version is a textbook example of why this category matters. Sourced from the estate's southern Gaiole in Chianti holdings and certified organic, it spent 24 months in large 40–50HL casks — a deliberate choice that preserves Sangiovese's aromatic lift while building structure without over-oaking. The 2020 vintage delivered warm, even ripening across Tuscany, and Bossi channeled that richness into a wine of explosive intensity and remarkable finesse. Deep ruby with garnet lights, it opens with black cherry, plum, cedar, sweet spice, dark chocolate, and a whisper of saddle leather. The palate is fleshy and dense, yet balanced, with a very pronounced, lingering finish. Drink now with confidence, or cellar through 2034.

• Appellation: Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Varietal: Sangiovese
• Vintage: 2020
• Format: 750ml
• Aging: 24 months in 40–50HL large casks
• Certification: Certified Organic
• Drink Window: Now – 2034

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2020

Vinous — Antonio Galloni | 92 Points: Gorgeous. Floral, lifted and quite expressive, the 2020 has a lot to offer. It marries the richness of this southern district with lovely aromatic presence and a good bit of brightness. A complete, deeply satisfying wine to drink now and over the next decade or so. Drink 2024–2034.

Pairing Suggestions

• Classic Tuscan: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or pappardelle with meat sauce.
• Meat: Roasted lamb rack, braised short ribs, or aged beef tagliata.
• Cheese: Aged Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a firm sheep’s milk cheese.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

Vinous (Neal Martin) 97 Points: Beguiling bouquet with red berry fruit, truffle and light Provençal herb scents, beautifully defined. Medium-bodied with pliant tannins — exquisite in terms of balance, silky smooth, building gradually with a harmonious and quite effortless finish. Divine. A stellar showing.

Decanter (Georgina Hindle) 97 Points: Rich, full and heady nose. Ripe blackcurrant, red cherries, raspberries and strawberries with mint, black pepper and truffle. Excellent precision and density with a seductive dark chocolate edge. Powerful, muscular and confident, yet with suppleness — density and grace with a cooling finish of liquorice, mint and soft salinity. A great wine.

James Suckling 95 Points: Perfumed nose of mulberries, plums, chocolate orange and cloves. Medium-to-full bodied with firm, ripe tannins. Caressing, velvety and rich core of dark fruit. So supple and polished. 88.5% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.5% Cabernet Franc. Drink after 2024.

Wine Advocate (William Kelley) 94 Points: Fleshy and dramatic, wafting from the glass with aromas of ripe berry fruit mingled with subtle hints of truffle and violets, new oak already entirely integrated. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless, broad and textural with lively acids, powdery tannins and fine length on the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points: Elegant, solid Pomerol delivering spicy red and black cherry fruits, notes of cedary herbs and flowers, medium-bodied richness, silky yet building tannins, and a great finish. Will benefit from 3–5 years of bottle age and keep for 15–20 years.

Winemaker Description

Château Gazin is one of Pomerol’s most storied estates, neighboring the legendary Pétrus on the plateau’s finest clay soils. The 2019 is a benchmark expression — a blend of 88.5% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4.5% Cabernet Franc — that showcases the appellation’s signature combination of opulence and precision. Silky, seamless, and built for the long haul, it is a wine of remarkable harmony and effortless grace.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Roasted lamb rack with truffle jus, beef tenderloin, or duck confit with cherry reduction.
• Classic Bordeaux: Venison with wild mushrooms, braised short ribs, or a classic French cassoulet.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Ossau-Iraty, or a rich washed-rind cheese.

Charles Le Bel Champagne “Inspiration 1818” Brut — Champagne NV

Founded in 1818, Champagne Charles Le Bel is one of the region’s most storied négociant houses, crafting wines that balance classical elegance with exceptional value. The “Inspiration 1818” Brut is the house’s flagship non-vintage blend — a harmonious assemblage of 37% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Meunier, and 33% Pinot Noir, with a remarkable 70% reserve wines contributing depth, complexity, and consistency across every release. Finished at 9g/L dosage, this is a Champagne of genuine quality and outstanding price-to-pleasure ratio.

The nose is blooming and inviting: butter, white-flesh fruits, Mirabelle plum, brioche, and dried fruits. On the palate, it is well-balanced and structured — the Pinot Noirs lend body and richness, while the Chardonnay delivers a refreshing finish of citrus and white pepper. Fine, plentiful bubbles rise in a sparkling, crystalline wine that is equally at home as an apéritif or at the table.

67 Wine — “A delicious, classic Champagne with aromas of brioche, almonds, and pears. An exceptional quality-to-price ratio — perfect for parties and grand evenings alike.”

• Producer: Charles Le Bel, Champagne, France
• Founded: 1818
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: 37% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Meunier, 33% Pinot Noir
• Reserve Wines: 70%
• Dosage: 9 g/L (Brut)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Butter, Mirabelle plum, white peach, brioche, dried fruits, citrus, white pepper, fine persistent bubbles
• Best Paired With: Oysters, smoked salmon, soft cheeses, charcuterie, light appetizers, fruit tarts

Two centuries of Champagne craftsmanship at an honest price — Charles Le Bel’s 1818 Brut is the house that history built.

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir That Punches Well Above Its Price

Martin Ray has been crafting wines from California's finest appellations since 1943, and their Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir consistently delivers the kind of freshness, complexity, and varietal precision that makes this AVA one of America's most exciting Pinot Noir regions. The 2023 vintage shows beautifully — vivid, alive, and layered, with the cool-climate character that defines the Sonoma Coast at its best.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Great, fresh feel, vivid fruit flavors and subtle, complex toast and spice notes. Medium-bodied and slightly tannic, alive and refreshing. Red cherries, sour cherries, raspberries, black tea and spearmint. Aromas of spiced cranberry, cedar, cinnamon, and wildflowers."
• Wine Enthusiast — 91 pts: "Bright acid and a savory character, with flavors of plum skin, spiced cherry, black tea, and roses lingering through the finish."

Winemaker Notes

Martin Ray Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2023 750ml

Layers of fresh raspberry and plum with hints of candied violets and earth. Vivid red notes carry throughout with tart cherry and hibiscus, with an undercurrent of sassafras and vanilla. Bright acidity on the palate, with velvety yet structured tannins on the finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast, California
• Producer: Martin Ray Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Highly versatile at the table — exceptional with roasted duck, grilled chicken, mushroom risotto, truffle dishes, pork loin, and salmon.

Producer Description 

Purchased by the Comte Lafond, an ancestor of the current owner, Baron Patrick de Ladoucette, Château du Nozet and its surrounding vineyards have a reputation for producing the finest Pouilly-Fumé.

The delicate and complex olfactory expression opens on aromas which remind of white flower, exotic fruits. There is a very beautiful complexity for a vintage where the end-of-season’s sun brought a lot to the aromas. Excellent complexity that translates into great and elegant richness. Nice attack, straight and bright, it takes place with elegance on fruity notes associated with a dense structure and a beautiful acidity which brings a great length in the end of the mouth. There are aromas of exotic fruits (litchi, mango).

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Spectator by Kristen Bieler writes 89 Points | Apple, pear and citrus cream are backed by a laser beam of acidity and crushed flint. Warm hay and heather notes add dimension, while the finish is crackling and linear. Drink now through 2026. 2,500 cases imported.

Memo Notes Summary 

De Ladoucette is unique in that it utilizes no oak in its vinification, aging the wine on its fine lees in glass-tiled tanks. This process maximizes the fresh, terroir-driven characteristics of the Sauvignon Blanc grape.

Color: Pale golden-green, bright and limpid.

The nose is delicate yet complex, exhibiting a beautiful array of white flowers (lilac, white blossoms), citrus fruits (grapefruit, lemon peel), and exotic fruit (lychee, mango). The quintessential flinty/mineral aroma, known as fumé (smoke), is usually present, especially as the wine opens.

The classic, mineral-driven profile of Pouilly-Fumé makes it one of the most versatile white wines for dining:

• Seafood: A perfect match for all shellfish, including oysters, scallops, and shrimp, as well as grilled white fish (sea bass, turbot).

  Cheese: The traditional pairing is goat cheese, especially Crottin de Chavignol or fresh Chèvre. Its acidity cuts through the cheese's creaminess beautifully.

  
  

  Poultry & Other: Light white meats, salads, and vegetable dishes like asparagus risotto or chicken with a cream/lemon sauce.