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Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Charles Curtis MW of Decanter Magazine writes 94 Points | Lucie Coutoux explained that although La Maltroie and Champgains (as they spell it) are roughly the same elevations on the band of premier crus, there is more limestone in Champgains that gives a bigger wine. In 2022, this shows ripe notes of passionfruit and lime peel with an accent of hazelnut and hay. The texture is supple and rich, almost fat, but pleasantly so. The grapes are from the domaine's parcel of 0.44 hectares at the top of the slope. Drinking Window: 2027-2050.

Jasper Morris of Inside Burgundy writes 92 Points | A glowing pale lemon yellow. There is a clear white fruit charm to this, a little more chiselled than the softly welcoming Chenevottes, with a limestone length and purity at the finish. Drink from 2027-2032.

Allen Meadows of Burghound writes 91 Points | This is aromatically similar to the Maltroie though with evident floral elements. There is slightly better volume and mid-palate density to the delicious and caressing but punchy medium weight flavors that possess a healthy amount of sappy dry extract while exhibiting better overall depth and persistence. This too should be approachable young but easily repay mid-term keeping.

Winemaker Description 

100% Jacquère. The Abymes appellation sits lower and the slope than the Apremont and is on generally flatter land. Stainless steel fermentation and aging.

A firm, mineral spine and racy acidity support this wines core of lemon, verbena, peach and pear notes. This is the perfect match for fondue, raclette or a good old fashioned charcuterie plate.

Contact us for current bottle photograph.  Call or text us at 212-724-6767.

LChâteau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (commonly referred to as Pichon Lalande or Pichon Comtesse) is a winery in the Pauillac appellationof the Bordeaux region of France. Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is also the name of the red wine produced by this property. The wine produced here was classified as one of fifteen Deuxièmes Crus (Second Growths) in the original Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855.

Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 750ml

Explore the excellence of Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, a captivating red wine that expertly balances boldness and finesse. This super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon is structured and deep, showcasing the exceptional winemaking that has made Orin Swift one of California's most celebrated producers. With an impressive 96-point score from James Suckling, this vintage reveals an intricate tapestry of flavors that both novice and seasoned wine lovers will appreciate.

Outstanding Critical Acclaim - 96 Points - Vintage 2023

James Suckling - 96 Points
"A super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy red that's structured and deep, with black cherry flavors on an elegant texture. Very focused, showing supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit, graphite, cocoa, black olive and tobacco leaf flavors. Full-bodied but still balanced."

Orin Swift - California Wine Excellence

Orin Swift is one of California's most celebrated wine producers, known for creating bold, distinctive wines with exceptional quality and character. Founded by winemaker Dave Phinney, Orin Swift has earned a reputation for producing wines that push boundaries while maintaining balance and elegance. The MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon represents the pinnacle of their Cabernet production.

Super-Concentrated & Age-Worthy

As James Suckling notes, this is "a super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy red that's structured and deep." The wine's concentration and structure provide the foundation for exceptional aging potential, making it both enjoyable now and worthy of cellaring for years to come.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep, concentrated color
Aroma: Black cherry, graphite, cocoa, black olive, and tobacco leaf. Dark fruits like blackberry and plum with hints of chocolate, tobacco, and spices
Palate: Very focused with supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit. Black cherry flavors on an elegant texture. Graphite, cocoa, black olive and tobacco leaf flavors. Full-bodied but still balanced. Smooth mouthfeel characteristic of high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon
Finish: Structured and deep with lingering complexity

Napa Valley Terroir

The careful crafting of this wine allows it to reflect the unique terroir of the Napa Valley, ensuring a full-bodied experience. Napa Valley's ideal climate and soil conditions create the perfect environment for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon with depth, concentration, and elegance.

Very Focused & Elegant Texture

The wine is "very focused, showing supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit" according to James Suckling. This focus and elegance demonstrate the precision winemaking that defines Orin Swift's approach, creating a wine that is powerful yet refined.

Full-Bodied but Still Balanced

Despite its super-concentration and full-bodied character, this Cabernet Sauvignon maintains exceptional balance. This harmony between power and elegance makes it approachable while showcasing the complexity that defines great Cabernet Sauvignon.

Remarkable Aging Potential

One of the standout features of the Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is its remarkable aging potential. Crafted with careful attention to detail, this wine benefits from extended cellaring, allowing the flavors to deepen and evolve over time. It can be enjoyed fresh, revealing its vibrant fruit characters, or aged for several years to develop complex nuances that enhance its profile. Wine enthusiasts will find that this Cabernet evolves gracefully in the bottle.

2023 Vintage Excellence

The 2023 vintage showcases the exceptional quality and character that defines MERCURY HEAD. This vintage reveals an intricate tapestry of flavors, encompassing dark fruits, graphite, cocoa, black olive, and tobacco leaf, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Food Pairing Suggestions

To fully appreciate the richness of Orin Swift MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, consider pairing it with hearty dishes that match its robust character:

• Grilled meats - ribeye steaks and lamb chops
• Rich pasta dishes
• Aged cheeses
• Charcuterie board with salami and aged cheeses
• Dark chocolate
• Braised short ribs
• Roasted game meats

Perfect for Special Occasions

The wine's bold profile complements the flavors of hearty dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience. Each sip offers a smooth mouthfeel, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions, whether you're celebrating a special moment or enjoying an elevated dinner at home.

Excellent Addition to Any Collection

This age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon makes an excellent addition to any wine collection or a thoughtful gift for wine aficionados. The combination of super-concentration, structure, and aging potential ensures this wine will develop beautifully over time.

Graphite, Cocoa & Black Olive Complexity

The complex flavor profile featuring graphite, cocoa, black olive, and tobacco leaf creates layers of interest that reveal themselves with each sip. This complexity, combined with the elegant texture and supple tannins, demonstrates the artistry of Orin Swift's winemaking.

Structured & Deep Character

The structured and deep character of this wine provides both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging potential. The careful balance between concentration and elegance ensures that MERCURY HEAD Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a memorable experience whether enjoyed young or after years of cellaring.

Stone Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon — 1.5L Magnum

Stone Cellars is a reliable, no-fuss California Cabernet Sauvignon built for everyday enjoyment — approachable, smooth, and consistently crowd-pleasing. The 1.5L magnum format, equivalent to two standard bottles, makes it an ideal choice for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or any occasion where a generous pour is in order. Screw cap for easy opening anytime.

Aromas of cocoa and vanilla lead the way, followed by rich flavors of currant, dark ripe fruit, cassis, and cola, with warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Smooth and medium-bodied, with a soft finish that makes it easy to enjoy on its own or with food.

Food Pairings

• Grilled burgers and steaks
• BBQ ribs and roasted meats
• Pizza and pasta with red sauce
• Aged cheddar and hard cheeses

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: California
Format: 1.5L Magnum (= 2 standard bottles) | Screw cap

67Wine Store Review

Surprise, surprise! This is as tasty as any Cabernet you can buy for $15, that's for sure! We had it with roast chicken, smashed potatoes, buttered string beans and it just worked. This is a medium-bodied Cab; its dark plum and cherry fruit flavors are upfront, mouth-filling, and leave a mouth-cleansing fruit aftertaste. Another of our buyer Oscar's really great deals.

— Dorothy & Bernie, Follow the Drinker®

Buyer's Note

67Wine Petit Somm Series® showcases original artwork inspired by our city. Our Cabernet Sauvignon has a ruby red color with bright red highlights. Plum and raspberry on the nose with a hint of cacao. Pleasant and lively on the palate, medium-bodied with nice soft tannins. A great companion for grilled steak.

— Oscar Garcia Moncada, Wine Buyer, 67Wine

About the Petit Somm Series

The 67Wine Petit Somm Series® is a project created by our buyer, Oscar Garcia Moncada. The entire lineup offers a meticulously curated collection of high-quality, value-driven wines sourced from top regions around the world. The artwork on each label celebrates some of the most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks in New York City — bringing together the worlds of wine and the city we love. This Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Chile and sealed with a screwcap for everyday convenience.

Food Pairings

Grilled steak, roast chicken, smashed potatoes, pasta with meat sauce, burgers, mild cheddar, and charcuterie. An ideal everyday red for casual dining and entertaining.

Product Details

• Label: 67Wine Petit Somm Series®
• Curated by: Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67Wine
• Region: Central Valley, Chile
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Closure: Screwcap
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward Chilean Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Joseph Drouhin Chassagne-Montrachet 2023

Experience the elegance of Burgundy with Joseph Drouhin Chassagne-Montrachet 2023, a prestigious white wine from one of France's most celebrated appellations. Crafted by the renowned Joseph Drouhin estate, founded in 1880, this exceptional Chardonnay showcases the unique terroir of Chassagne-Montrachet through meticulous winemaking and sustainable viticulture practices.

Tasting Profile

This generous and elegant wine displays a light golden color with remarkable aromatic complexity. The nose reveals intense aromas of oyster shells, lavender flowers, sandalwood, brioche, and candied lemon, evolving toward nuances of grilled hazelnut and spice as it matures. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture, the palate is straightforward yet refined, offering flavors of ripe pear, citrus zest, stone fruits, and heather flowers. Vibrant acidity balances the wine's richness, leading to a long, flavorful finish where floral and gingerbread notes dominate.

Expert Recognition

James Suckling - 94 Points
"An intense village wine with aromas and flavors of oyster shells, lavender flowers and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Heather flowers come through. Real Chassagne-Montrachet."

The Wine Advocate - 90 Points
"An intense village wine with aromas and flavors of oyster shells, lavender flowers and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Heather flowers come through. Real Chassagne-Montrachet."

Perfect Pairings

• Grilled fish and lobster with butter
• Seafood and shellfish
• Roasted poultry dishes
• Creamy risottos and pasta
• Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly chilled at 50-55°F to enhance the wine's refreshing qualities and aromatic complexity. This versatile Chassagne-Montrachet is perfect for special celebrations or intimate dinners, and can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development. Each 750ml bottle represents the storied heritage and dedication to excellence that defines Joseph Drouhin.

Decoy by Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023

Decoy is the everyday expression of Duckhorn Wine Company — one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated names — and it delivers the Duckhorn philosophy of quality and approachability at an honest price. Sourced from premium California vineyards, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon benefits from one of the state’s most exceptional recent vintages. The season began with abundant winter rains that revitalized drought-stressed soils, followed by a cool spring that delayed ripening and extended hang time. Harvest ran from September 7th through November 9th — a long, carefully managed campaign with alternating heat waves and cooling trends that built exceptional depth, texture, and rich color in the fruit. The result is a Cabernet of remarkable quality for the price.

The color is a deep, alluring ruby. The nose is immediately inviting: black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spices that draw you in from the first pour. On the palate, silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture frame voluptuous dark berry flavors, with barrel spice adding nuance and complexity to a long, lush, and satisfying finish. This is California Cabernet done right — rich, balanced, and built for the table.

The Wine Enthusiast 93 | Dark berry and plum aromas on the nose of this bottling are cut by nutmeg, cola and bittersweet cocoa touches. The palate is quite dry with flavors of dark-chocolate flake and oregano, as dark berry fills in the fruit tones. A very classic California Cab. (Vintage 2023). 

“Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spices. Silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture — a long, lush finish.” — Duckhorn Winemaker

• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Wine Company, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Rich, supple, approachable California Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, blackberry, mocha, blueberry, baking spice, barrel spice, silky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, burgers, aged cheddar, BBQ

Duckhorn quality at an everyday price — Decoy 2023 is the California Cabernet you’ll reach for again and again.

Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Meursault Les Corbins — Côte de Beaune 2023

Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur is one of Meursault’s most respected family estates, known for wines of precision, tension, and genuine terroir expression. Les Corbins is a southeast-facing lieu-dit located north of the village of Meursault on the road to Volnay, sitting just beneath the premier cru Les Plures — a position that speaks to the quality of the site. François Bitouzet farms a hectare and a half of Chardonnay here, planted between 1974 and 1987 in a particularly deep and rocky clay-limestone soil that imparts the wine’s signature intense minerality and acid-driven tension. Aged 16 months in 20% new barrels, this is a textbook Meursault of excellent weight and complexity — a village wine that drinks with the authority of a premier cru.

The nose is enchanting: intense minerality, subtle buttercream, spice, and a lifted touch of mint. On the palate, it is weighty and precise — the Bitouzet house style of acid-driven tension is fully on display, with the deep clay-limestone soils delivering concentration and structure alongside the classic Meursault richness. A wine of real distinction that will reward cellaring.

67 Wine — “Les Corbins sits just beneath the premier cru Les Plures, and it shows. Intense minerality, buttercream, spice and mint — with the acid-driven tension that defines the Bitouzet-Prieur house style. A village Meursault that drinks like a premier cru.”

• Producer: Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur, Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Meursault AOC
• Lieu-Dit: Les Corbins (SE-facing, north of Meursault village, below premier cru Les Plures)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vine Age: Planted 1974–1987
• Soil: Deep, rocky clay-limestone
• Aging: 16 months, 20% new oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Intense minerality, buttercream, spice, mint, excellent weight, acid-driven tension, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2025–2035+
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roast turbot, scallops, roast chicken with cream sauce, aged Comté

Southeast-facing, clay-limestone, vines from 1974 — Bitouzet-Prieur’s Les Corbins is the village Meursault that earns its place among the greats.

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

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

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

Expert Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

Vinous 93 Points | The first of the two white wines, the 2024 Versante Nord is a blend of varieties sourced from six different vineyards at varying altitudes from the north side of the valley, which receives more sunlight during the day. This wine offers a wealth of power, with notes of salted pineapples, fresh sage, smoky earth, and saline. It’s bright with acidity, salinity, and a light wild side, though very well-managed. It had been bottled just three weeks earlier, so this tasting was a preview prior to its release. Drink over the coming 8-10 years.

Winemaker Description 

This wine offers a strikingly pure expression of Mt. Etna’s eastern slopes. Grown on volcanic soils at high elevation, this white blend is taut, mineral, and refreshingly saline, with notes of citrus zest, herbs, and crushed rock. A brilliant new bottling from one of Etna’s most exciting voices—available now on pre-sale in limited quantities.

Eric Guido also last year assigned 91 Points to this plot- and said as follows of the 2023 vintage - Crushed rocks, dried flowers, raw almonds and freshly sliced nectarines form a savory bouquet as the 2023 Carricante Versante Est opens in the glass. Nearly salty in character, it washes across the palate with ease, showing tart orchard fruits and hints of lemony custard. The 2023 finishes with medium length, leaving a pleasant chamomile air to linger.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Burhound 92-94 Points | An elegant, pure and ultra-fresh nose offers up notes of lilac, rose petal, white peach, tea and citrus zest. There is a markedly more refined mouthfeel to the utterly delicious and highly seductive medium weight flavors that are more precise, all wrapped in a citrusy, impressively persistent and youthfully austere finale. This is very classy and I particularly like the underlying tension and balance that should also permit this beauty to age effortlessly over the next 12 to 15 years. In a word, excellent.

Domaine Guy Amiot’s Chardonnay comes from a northeast-facing parcel with a moderate slope and deep clay-limestone soils. These conditions create a wine that combines generous texture and ripe fruit with freshness, structure and mineral precision.

The 2023 vintage offers aromas and flavors of fresh and baked apple, ripe pear, white flowers and subtle toasted notes. The palate is rich and rounded, balanced by lively acidity and a distinctive stony minerality that carries through the long, saline finish.

Expressive yet refined, this Premier Cru white Burgundy offers both immediate appeal and the structure to develop additional complexity with careful bottle aging.

Serving and Pairing

Serve lightly chilled with lobster, scallops, roasted fish, poultry in a cream sauce, mushroom risotto, creamy pasta dishes or soft and semi-firm cheeses.

Wine Details

Producer: Domaine Guy Amiot et Fils
Vintage: 2023
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Country: France
Region: Burgundy, Côte de Beaune
Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru
Vineyard: Clos Saint-Jean
Classification: Premier Cru
Vineyard Area: 0.2462 hectares
Exposure: Northeast
Soil: Clay and limestone
Vine Age: Approximately 25 years
Wine Type: Dry White Wine
Alcohol: 13.5%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Suggested Drinking Window: 5–8 years
Estimated Aging Potential: Up to 10 years under proper storage conditions

Domaine Guy Amiot et Fils Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru Clos Saint-Jean 2023

FETZER VALLEY OAKS CABERNET SAUVIGNON NV | 750ML

🇺🇸 United States — Cabernet Sauvignon | California

A reliable, food-friendly California Cabernet that delivers more than its price suggests. The nose opens with enticing aromas of black cherry, blackberry, and vanilla, with evident oak spice and a hint of herbs. On the palate, ripe blackberry, mocha, toffee, and vanilla layer together in a medium-bodied wine with medium-firm tannins that provide structure and balance. A wine that will continue to evolve in the bottle.

Fetzer’s Valley Oaks range has long been a benchmark for approachable, well-made California red — consistent, versatile, and built for the table.

Pairs well with: Grilled meats, burgers, pasta with red sauce, aged cheddar.

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: California, United States
Style: Medium-bodied, oak-aged
Format: 750ml

Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages — Mâconnais, Burgundy 2024

Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy’s most celebrated négociants — a house with over 160 years of history and an unrivalled reputation for honest, terroir-driven wines at every price point. The Mâcon-Villages is their benchmark expression of unoaked Burgundy Chardonnay: sourced from chalk and limestone soils across the Mâconnais, fermented in stainless steel with no oak contact, and crafted to deliver the pure, bright, food-friendly character that has made this appellation a perennial favorite. Wine Spectator awarded it 88 points. At under $17, it is one of the most compelling values in all of white Burgundy.

Floral and inviting on the nose: apple blossom, citrus zest, and white peach. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing — bright green apple and lemon, underpinned by a nuanced mineral thread from the limestone soils, with a clean, lively finish and excellent balance. The quintessential unoaked Burgundy Chardonnay — effortlessly drinkable and endlessly food-friendly.

Wine Spectator 88 — Unoaked Burgundy Chardonnay of bright purity and limestone minerality.

• Producer: Louis Jadot, Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Mâcon-Villages AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Soils: Chalk and limestone, Mâconnais
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation, no oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Apple blossom, citrus zest, white peach, green apple, lemon, limestone minerality
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, roast chicken, light pasta, goat cheese, summer salads

A 160-year Burgundy house at its most approachable — Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages is the benchmark for what unoaked Chardonnay can be.

Winemaker Description

2019 embodies classic Hillside Select richness, vibrancy, and balance. The aromas push out of the glass, offering black cherry, cedar, cassis, and juicy red summer berries with lifted floral tones. Even at this youthful age, the complexity of the vintage is striking, merging dark fruit with tobacco, espresso, black olive, red plum, and black tea. The expansive mid-palate is complemented by ripe integrated tannins that add depth and structure, culminating in a long, profound finish.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019 

98+ Points Jeb Dunnuck | The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another magical vintage for this cuvée. All Cabernet Sauvignon from hillside vineyards on the eastern side of Stags Leap, it offers a vivid purple hue as well as extraordinary notes of cassis, black raspberries, violets, camphor, and spring flowers, with perfectly integrated background oak. Full-bodied but not massive, it’s flawlessly balanced on the palate and has ultra-fine tannins, a seamless, elegant mouthfeel, and a great, great finish. It’s another 30- to 40-year wine from this incredible team that readers will absolutely love. (2019).

98+ Points Robert Parker | Sourced from specific blocks of estate-grown fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another highly successful vintage. All Cabernet Sauvignon aged 32 months in 100% new French oak, it boasts intense aromas of pencil shavings, dark loam, cassis and plum on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, super-ripe, rich, dense and concentrated—a truly impressive California vin de garde. Tannic but ripe, it finishes long and firm on the finish, adding a hint of mocha. To be released in September 2023, it's a strong showing and hopefully an indication that quality will remain high under the new ownership. (2019).

98 Points James Suckling | A beautiful nose of pitted cherries, redcurrants, fresh herbs and violets. Full-bodied with fine, structured tannins. More gravelly, mineral and dark than the nose lets on. Savory almost. Terrific depth and concentration that keeps the palate flavorful through the generous finish. Chocolate, sage, rosemary, bark and moss. Layered. Superb wine. Needs time to come together. Best after 2024 and onward. (2019).

98 Points Vinous | The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is one of the most elegant wines I have tasted at Shafer. Effusive aromatics and silky tannins are immediately captivating. Crushed red/purplish berry fruit, mint, spice, lavender and licorice are all finely knit. We will see, but the 2019 may very well represent a new direction for Hillside Select, one of Napa Valley's most iconic Cabernets. (2019).

97 Points Wine Enthusiast | This broad, rich and mouthfilling wine is Shafer’s most elite and collectible. Aged for 32 months in all-new French oak barrels, it boasts extra-ripe blackberries and blueberries, accents of mint, cedar and graphite, and a big structure of polished tannins. (2019).

94 Points Wine Spectator| A ripe, exuberant style, with generous plum cake, blackberry compote and açaí berry notes mixed with melted black licorice and a nicely polished, singed mesquite–accented finish. Hard to resist now (if you like the power style), but also has the energy to take some cellaring. (2019).

Château La Nerthe | Les Cassagnes Blanc | Côtes du Rhône | Rhône Valley, France | 2022

One of the Rhône Valley's most storied estates, Château La Nerthe has been producing wines of elegance and precision since 1590 — the only true château in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Les Cassagnes Blanc is their approachable Côtes du Rhône white, a blend of Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne grown within the Massif d'Uchaux territory. The 2022 delivers aromatic intensity and creamy texture, with cooked lemon, nectarine, peach, white pepper, and white flowers. A wine of volume, balance, and vivid finish — exceptional value from a legendary address.

Tasting Notes

Cooked lemons, fresh bay leaves, peaches, white pepper, and white flowers on the nose. Medium body with a harmonious, creamy palate. Concentrated nectarine flavors with a touch of oak spice and a vivid, aromatic finish.

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2022

Decanter 92 Points
"There's a touch of oak to the nose and palate, giving a touch of spice and polish to the intense, concentrated nectarine flavours. Plenty of impact and concentration."

James Suckling 92 Points
"An aromatic nose of cooked lemons, fresh bay leaves, peaches, white pepper and white flowers. Medium body with a harmonious and creamy palate. It has volume and balance with an aromatic and vivid finish."

• Appellation: Côtes du Rhône, Rhône Valley
• Blend: Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Château La Nerthe

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.

Pascal Doquet Arpège Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature — Côte des Blancs 2019 Base

Pascal Doquet is one of the leading organic growers of the Côte des Blancs, farming his vineyards in Vertus, Villeneuve, and Mont Aimé with certified organic practices and a deep commitment to terroir transparency. The Arpège is his entry-point Blanc de Blancs — 100% Chardonnay from parcels not selected for his limited-production Coeur de Terroir bottlings — yet it is anything but secondary. The chalk and flinty silex soils of Mont Aimé give the wine its distinctive mineral structure and smoky depth, while a substantial proportion of reserve wine held in enamel tanks adds complexity and consistency. Finished with zero dosage, the Brut Nature designation allows the Chardonnay and its vineyard origins to speak with exceptional clarity. Rated 93 points by James Suckling and 91 by The Wine Advocate.

The bouquet opens with ripe pear, crisp apple, and citrus, followed by spice, black tea, white flowers, and lightly toasted brioche. On the palate, the wine is energetic and finely textured — bright acidity, delicate bubbles, and a pronounced chalky, saline character. Subtle smoky and savory notes add complexity, and the finish is dry, focused, and persistent. An exceptional aperitif with the structure to carry through a full meal.

James Suckling 93 • Wine Advocate 91 • Wine Spectator 90 — "A refined yet expressive Champagne… terroir-driven and precise."

• Producer: Pascal Doquet, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2019 (with reserve wines)
• Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
• Vineyards: Vertus, Villeneuve & Mont Aimé
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs, Brut Nature
• Dosage: 0 g/L
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Reserve Wine: Held in enamel tanks for freshness and purity
• Alcohol: ~12.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe pear, apple, citrus, spice, black tea, white flowers, brioche, chalky minerality, smoky notes, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, shellfish, sushi, sashimi, grilled seafood, roast poultry, creamy cheeses, aged goat cheese

93 points from James Suckling. Zero dosage. Certified organic. Pascal Doquet's Arpège is Côte des Blancs Blanc de Blancs at its most honest and mineral-driven.

A Classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from One of the Valley’s Most Iconic Estates

Cakebread Cellars has been crafting benchmark Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon since 1973, and the 2022 is a quintessential expression of the house style — rich, layered, and beautifully balanced. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, and 1% Cabernet Franc, it delivers ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry with dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak, underpinned by bright acidity and velvety tannins.

Expert Reviews

• James Suckling — 92 pts: Plush and generous aromas of blackcurrants, mulberries and baking spices. Full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving flavors of olive tapenade, blackberries and cedar. Approachable for early drinking, but will age nicely. (Vintage 2022). 

Winemaker Notes

Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml

Rich layers of ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry enhanced by subtle hints of dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak. Bright acidity and velvety tannins deliver a full-bodied yet refined and elegant structure. Approachable now and built to age gracefully.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Cakebread Cellars
• Vintage: 2022
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural at the table — exceptional with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb rack, rich pork dishes, game, and aged cheddar or Gruyère.

Honig Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2022

Honig is one of Napa Valley’s most trusted family estates — a multi-generational winery committed to sustainable viticulture and the kind of honest, terroir-driven Cabernet that made Napa famous. Sourced from estate vineyards in the heart of the valley and aged in a combination of French and American oak, the 2022 delivers everything that defines great Napa Cabernet: concentrated dark fruit, elegant structure, silky tannins, and a long, complex finish. James Suckling awarded it 91 points; Wine Advocate 90. At under $60, it is one of the most compelling values in Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

The nose is inviting and expressive: blackberry, kirsch, red plum, dried flowers, and walnuts. On the palate, it is full-bodied and luscious, with layers of black cherry, cranberry, cedar, loam, and subtle bitter spice, framed by ripe yet lightly chewy tannins and a silky-velvety texture that leads to a long, intense finish. Drink now or cellar through 2030+.

James Suckling 91 — “Attractive nose of blackberries, kirsch and hints of dried flowers and walnuts. Full and well-structured with ripe yet lightly chewy tannins and deep, succulent fruit underneath. Intense, bitter-spice finish.” (Vintage 2022).

Wine Advocate 90 — “Delivers notes of cedar, loam, black cherries and dried spices… full-bodied, silky-velvety in texture and softly tannic, with ample length and texture on the finish.” (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Honig Vineyard & Winery, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: French and American oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, kirsch, red plum, black cherry, cedar, loam, dried spice, bitter-spice finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2030+
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb, beef Wellington, aged cheddar, mushroom risotto

A 91-point Napa Valley Cabernet at an honest price — Honig is the benchmark for what family-farmed Napa Cab can be.

About the Wine

Sanford Winery is one of Santa Barbara County's pioneering estates, with deep roots in the Santa Rita Hills AVA — a cool, wind-swept corridor that produces some of California's most compelling Chardonnay.

The 2023 vintage is crafted under the direction of winemaker Trey Fletcher, whose minimal-intervention philosophy allows the vineyard's natural character to lead.

90 pts — Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Composed primarily of young vines from La Rinconada planted in heavier soils, the 2023 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills is pure, floral and orchard fruit-driven, with a seamless, lifted palate that boasts remarkable textural precision and a chalky, high-toned finish." (Vintage 2023).

90 pts — Vinous: "The 2023 Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills) is a soft, gentle white that speaks in hushed tones — very elegant and approachable. White flowers, chamomile and pear are some of the notes that emerge with air, all motivated by saline-tinged acids." (Vintage 2023). 

Tasting Notes

Bright and aromatic on the nose with grilled lemon, dried flowers, and chamomile. The palate is silky and intensely mineral, with orchard fruit precision and a chalky, high-toned finish. Saline-tinged acidity keeps the wine fresh and lifted throughout.

Food Pairings

A natural match for shellfish, oysters, sushi, light seafood dishes, and fresh appetizers. Also lovely alongside roasted chicken or soft cheeses.

Meet the Winemaker — Trey Fletcher

Trey believes the vineyard and its farming are the cornerstone of wine quality. With eight years at Bien Nacido Vineyards and experience at Littorai Wines and in Napa Valley, he brings a seasoned, terroir-driven approach to every vintage at Sanford.

Wine Details

• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Appellation: Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Style: Elegant, mineral-driven white

Winemaker Description

The deep ruby color indicates a luxe complexity, while aromas of black cherry, cassis, and rich earth are abundant in this classic Cabernet Sauvignon. On entry, currants and black plums generously lead to a plush mouthfeel, with ample tannins carrying the fruit to a long, lingering finish. Aged 12 months in 1-year-old American oak barrels, developing notes of baking spices, nutmeg, and hints of caramel.

Expert Review —  Current Vintage 2023, Prior Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast - 90 Points - (Tonya Pitts) (Vintage 2023) Pronounced nose, with a focused fruit core, notes of Black plum, black licorice, molasses, vanilla bean, and violets. Fresh youthful blackberries on the palate, dried herbs, bittersweet chocolate, espresso, and grippy tannins to finish. Aerate and enjoy mid-week.  —

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Vintage 2022)
"For $11, this California Cab packs bags of flavor. Find notes of black cherry, plum and currant, cinnamon, nutmeg, fennel, crushed violets and toasted wood alongside mouthcoating tannins and modest acidity."

Food Pairings

Pairs well with rib-eye steak with blue cheese butter, roasted eggplant with provolone, and dark chocolate mousse with fresh berries.

Product Details

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards
• Region: California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 12 months in American oak
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, plush, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Format: 750ml