Search results

Expert Review

Burghound | Note: from 3 different parcels measuring 1.36 ha, two at the bottom in Baudes Basses and another at the top in Montiotes Hautes Moderate reduction dominates the fruit though there is a lovely sense of underlying tension and freshness to the succulent, palate coating and powerful medium weight flavors that also conclude in a chalky, sappy and lingering finale. This is also going to need at least some patience as it's presently quite tightly wound.

Gulfi Carjcanti DOC Sicilia Carricante 2022 Organic 750ml

Gulfi is one of Sicily's most respected family estates, based in Chiaramonte Gulfi in the Monti Iblei hills of Ragusa — a world away from the volcanic drama of Etna, yet equally compelling. The Carjcanti is made from 100% Carricante, an indigenous Sicilian grape variety traditionally associated with Etna, here grown at 420 meters altitude on limestone-clay soils using traditional alberello training with 9,000 vines per hectare. Certified organic, no irrigation, natural yeasts — this is winemaking with deep respect for the land.

Aged one year in 500L and 2,500L oak barrels followed by several months in bottle, the 2022 Carjcanti is a wine of real tension and complexity — mineral, savory, and built to age, yet already showing beautiful aromatic detail and a palate that rewards every sip.

"Sweet almond paste, young peaches, hints of flint and smoke waft up from this wine. Its soft texture soothes as a savory display of herbal-tinged orchard fruits and salty minerals wash across the palate. There’s a lovely cut of acidity as this finishes with youthful tension revealing hints of hazelnuts and inner florals."

• Producer: Gulfi, Chiaramonte Gulfi, Ragusa, Sicily, Italy
• Appellation: DOC Sicilia Carricante
• Grape: 100% Carricante
• Vintage: 2022
• Farming: Certified Organic — traditional alberello, no irrigation
• Altitude: 420 meters — limestone-clay soils
• Aging: 1 year in oak barrels (500L & 2,500L) + several months in bottle
• Tasting Notes: Almond paste, peach, flint, smoke, herbal orchard fruit, salty minerals, hazelnut, florals, bright acidity
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, seafood pasta, swordfish, burrata, or light antipasti

A rare indigenous Sicilian white from one of the island’s most dedicated organic estates — Carjcanti is the kind of discovery that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about Italian white wine.

R. Pouillon & Fils | Méthode Fabrice Pouillon — Chemin du Bois | Extra-Brut | Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne | 2018 | Organic & Biodynamic

R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards according to organic and biodynamic principles, with close attention paid to soil health, vine balance, and full physiological ripeness at harvest.

Chemin du Bois is one of Fabrice Pouillon's most innovative and daring Champagnes — created to demonstrate how thoughtful farming, natural ripeness, and minimal intervention can reshape the traditional Champagne method. Produced entirely from Pinot Noir grown in the single Chemin du Bois vineyard in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ on clay-limestone soils, this cuvée is defined by Pouillon's proprietary Méthode Fabrice Pouillon — a radical departure from conventional Champagne production.

Conventional Champagne permits the addition of externally sourced sugar at three stages: chaptalization, the prise de mousse that creates the bubbles, and dosage after disgorgement. Chemin du Bois uses none of it. Instead, approximately 15% of the juice is reserved in stainless steel until spring. The remaining juice ferments spontaneously with ambient yeasts in neutral barrels. After approximately 12 months, the finished base wine is blended with the reserved grape juice, initiating a second natural fermentation entirely from the estate's own fruit. When dosage is used, it too is prepared from grape juice rather than refined sugar. The result is a Champagne of remarkable purity, individuality, and direct terroir connection.

Full-bodied and muscular, the 2018 combines the generosity and warmth of the vintage with Pouillon's characteristic precision. Ripe orchard fruit, citrus peel, red apple, and subtle red-fruit tones joined by warm brioche, spice, toasted grain, and chalky minerality. On the palate, broad and textural with a powerful, gastronomic attack, a layered mid-palate supported by vibrant acidity, a persistent mousse, and a long, enveloping finish. Despite its breadth and concentration, the wine remains energetic and beautifully controlled.

A profound, vinous Champagne intended as much for the table as for celebration. Pair with roast poultry, veal, pork, lobster, seared scallops, mushroom dishes, aged Comté, and other richly flavored cheeses.

• Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
• Cuvée: Méthode Fabrice Pouillon — Chemin du Bois
• Style: Extra-Brut
• Appellation: Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France
• Grape: Pinot Noir (100%)
• Vintage: 2018
• Farming: Organic & biodynamic principles
• Soils: Clay-limestone; single vineyard Chemin du Bois
• Fermentation: Ambient yeasts in neutral barrels; no externally sourced sugar at any stage
• Secondary Fermentation: Initiated by reserved estate grape juice (15% of harvest)
• Élevage: ~12 months in oak casks; full malolactic fermentation
• Dosage: Extra-Brut (estate grape juice only)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2018

• Wine Advocate — 92 pts: Full-bodied and muscular — broad-shouldered and textural opening developing into a layered and flavorful mid-palate. Vibrant acidity provides energy and definition, while the long, enveloping finish captures the warmth and generosity of the 2018 vintage.

Alain Graillot · Crozes-Hermitage Rouge · 2023

A Northern Rhône Syrah from the Graillot domaine, this 2023 Crozes-Hermitage brings dark cherry, plum and wild-herb notes to a lively, textured palate. Its fine tannins and fresh finish make it a compelling choice for a table set with grilled lamb or mushroom-rich dishes.

Expert Reviews · 2023 Vintage

A driven, balanced, flavorful, textural and lively Crozes-Hermitage, showing aromas of dark cherries, spiced plums, wild herbs and warm spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Superb texture and balance with a long, succulent and vivid finish. Drink or hold.

James Suckling · 94 points

Fermented with 100% whole clusters, the 2023 displays ripe red fruit tones, stemmy touches, pencil shaving, licorice and cedar aromas. Medium- to full-bodied and fresh — shaping up to be a delicious red Crozes-Hermitage. A long, defined finish wraps it up.

Vinous · 91+ points

Winemaker Description

In France’s Northern Rhône Valley, few names are as revered as Graillot. It was in 1985 that the late, legendary Alain Graillot — after working with the venerable Jacques Seysses at Domaine Dujac — returned to his home in Crozes-Hermitage to start his own domaine. With each passing year, his devotion to making hauntingly delicious Syrah from organically farmed, stone-laden vineyards earned him a devoted global following. Alain’s sons Maxime and Antoine have been in charge since 2008, continuing the legacy unchanged: hand-harvesting, organic farming, 100% whole-cluster fermentation, and aging primarily in 1-to-3 year old barrels sourced from top Burgundy estates.

Winemaker Description

Pairings & Details

Pair with grilled lamb chops with herbes de Provence, roasted duck, venison with wild mushrooms, daube de bœuf, cassoulet, charcuterie, aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire.

• Producer: Alain Graillot
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Crozes-Hermitage, Northern Rhône, France
• Grape: Syrah
• Size: 750ml

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate 93 Points | Notes of red berries and plums mingle with hints of rose petals, peonies, grilled meats and forest floor in an inviting bouquet, introducing Rousseau's 2019 Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru Clos des Ruchottes, a medium to full-bodied, bright and lively wine that's ethereal and perfumed, with a pretty core of fruit and a long, saline finish. Barrel Sample: 93-95

Burghound 95 Points | An elegant combination is comprised by notes of various red berries, especially essence of cherry, along with anise, the sauvage and a pretty dollop of spice elements, all of which is trimmed in enough wood to notice. The energetic and beautifully well-detailed and tautly muscular yet elegant flavors brim with an abundance of dry extract and minerality while concluding in a decidedly sleek and stunningly long finish that evidences a hint of youthful austerity. This markedly firm effort is gorgeous and possesses the wherewithal to age and improve for two to three decades.

Vinous 96 Points | The 2019 Ruchottes-Chambertin Clos des Ruchottes Grand Cru has a thrilling bouquet struck through with mineral-rich red berry fruit that teasingly takes time to unfurl in the glass; you can sense the limestone, and hints of graphite emerge later. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, quite piquant in style, leading to an edgy, slightly chalky finish that bristles with energy. This has great potential as a poised Ruchottes. Barrel Sample: 96-98 

95 Points — Jeb Dunnuck
93 Points — James Suckling
93 Points — Wine Advocate

Ten years on the lees. One of Champagne's most patient cuvees. Geoffroy's 2015 Terre Millésime is produced only in selected years from the finest barrel and cask selections in Cumières Premier Cru — and held back a full decade before disgorgement. The result is a vintage Champagne of remarkable depth and harmony: ripe stone fruit, dried citrus peel, chalk and iodine, framed by a pillowy mousse and a long, crystalline saline finish. Disgorged July 2024 with zero dosage.

The Place

Cumières is a historic Premier Cru village in Champagne's Vallée de la Marne, situated west of Hautvillers and overlooking the Marne River. Its favorably exposed hillside vineyards are known for producing Champagnes with ripe fruit, vinous texture and expressive personality. Clay and limestone contribute richness and structure; underlying chalk preserves freshness and mineral definition.

The Geoffroy family has cultivated vines here since the 17th century, and Cumières remains the heart of the estate's identity and production.

The Terre Millésime Cuvee

Terre Millésime is Geoffroy's most ambitious and age-worthy cuvee — produced only in exceptional years and never released young. The assemblage is drawn from a selection of barrels and casks chosen through comprehensive tastings, and the composition varies by vintage. In 2015, the blend is 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay.

Following secondary fermentation, the wine spends approximately ten years aging sur lattes before disgorgement. This extended lees contact develops a refined, complex mousse and layers of brioche, toasted nut, spice and savory mineral character that could not be achieved through shorter aging.

The wine is disgorged without dosage — 0 g/L — making it a true Brut Nature despite the Extra Brut designation on the label.

The 2015 Vintage

The 2015 growing season in Champagne was warm and generous, producing concentrated, expressive fruit with excellent natural ripeness. For Terre Millésime, the vintage delivered the depth, structure and aging potential required for a decade of lees maturation. The result is a wine with ripe stone fruit, mature citrus and a muscular yet fresh profile that Jeb Dunnuck describes as having "volume without weight."

Winemaking

The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted. Gentle pressing selects only the finest juice. Fermentation and maturation take place in a combination of oak barrels and larger casks, contributing texture, complexity and a subtle oak influence that frames rather than dominates the wine.

After assemblage, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle and spends approximately ten years aging on its lees before disgorgement in July 2024. It is released without fining, filtration or dosage.

Tasting Notes

The 2015 Terre Millésime opens with an expressive bouquet of dried orange peel, apricot, crisp pear, ripe apple and spice, with a faint hint of sage and iodine. Notes of sea spray, toast and gentle oak emerge with air.

The palate is medium- to full-bodied and pillowy, with a rounded, fleshy mousse that fills the palate and enhances the wine's broader structure. Bright acidity and a taut, chalky core provide focus and tension, while the generous mid-palate delivers stone fruit, lemon and savory complexity. The finish is long, dry and mineral, with persistent crystalline salinity and lingering citrus, toast and chalk.

Professional Ratings

95 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: Ripe notes of apricot, black fruits, savory cologne, iodine, sea spray and toast. Medium to full-bodied with volume without weight and a long palate. A rounded mid-palate with a mousse that fleshes out and fills the palate. A touch more oak influence frames the wine while retaining freshness, with persistent crystalline salinity through the finish. They do not produce this cuvée every year, but when they do, they hold it back ten years before disgorgement. 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. Disgorged July 2024. Drink 2025–2040.

93 Points — James Suckling: Spicy and expressive, with aromas of grapefruit, cedar, cloves and gingerbread. Firm, dry and vinous, with toasty layers and rounded bubbles. 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay. Disgorged July 2024. Zero dosage. Drink now or hold.

93 Points — Wine Advocate: The most harmonious wine in Geoffroy's portfolio this year. As always, the product of barrel and cask selection based on comprehensive tastings, followed by extended maturation sur lattes. The assemblage is never identical year to year. In 2015: 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay. Expressive bouquet of dried orange peel, apricot, crisp pear and spice with a faint hint of sage. Medium- to full-bodied and pillowy, with bright acidity and a taut, chalky core leading to a long, saline finish.

The Producer

The Geoffroy family has cultivated vineyards in Cumières since the 17th century. Today, Jean-Baptiste Geoffroy produces distinctive grower Champagnes emphasizing ripe fruit, individual vineyard expression, long cellar aging and restrained dosage. The estate farms approximately 14 hectares, with most vineyards in Cumières and additional parcels in neighboring Vallée de la Marne villages.

Food Pairing

An exceptional gastronomic Champagne for roast chicken, lobster, scallops, mushroom risotto, veal, pork tenderloin, duck and aged cheeses such as Comté, Gruyère or Parmesan. Its depth and saline finish also make it a natural partner for truffles, foie gras and richly sauced poultry dishes.

Serving and Cellaring

Serve at approximately 50–54°F in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass or generous white-wine glass. The 2015 is drinking beautifully now and should continue developing richer brioche, toasted-nut and savory complexity through 2040.

Producer: Champagne Geoffroy
Cuvée: Terre Millésime
Vintage: 2015
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Subregion: Vallée de la Marne
Village: Cumières Premier Cru
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Vintage Extra Brut Champagne
Blend: 75% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay
Farming: Practicing organic and sustainability-focused
Harvest: Hand harvested and sorted
Lees Aging: Approximately 10 years
Disgorgement: July 2024
Dosage: 0 g/L (Brut Nature)
Wine Type: Dry sparkling wine
Bottle Size: 750ml

The Wine Advocate 96 Points: “It brings forth a floral bouquet, showing subtle elegance at the start. Give it a few moments and the wine hits on all cylinders with integrated oak, bright fruit, black cherry, pomegranate seed, iris root and dustings of oak spice that never overshadow the fruit. The wine is refreshingly uncomplicated but shows refined nuance instead. This is the proverbial understated elegance that Gaja achieves so beautifully. It closes with lovely acidity and dusty tannins.” Monica Larner

Vinous Media 94 Points: “The 2021 Magari is the most elegant Magari I can remember tasting. Vibrant, nuanced and medium in body, the 2021 possesses notable energy from start to finish. All the elements are so nicely balanced. Dark cherry, mocha, dried herbs, licorice and menthol are finely sculpted in this super-expressive Bolgheri red. Terrific.” Antonio Galloni

Wine Spectator 93 Points: "Tobacco, licorice and cedar aromas and flavors frame the core of black currant and black cherry fruit in this intense, vibrant red. An iron element emerges too, as this builds to the lingering finish, with fine balance and a lingering aftertaste." Bruce Sanderson 

Magari is an Italian expression having different meanings “If only it was true…!”, “Maybe…”. It carries a sort of irony which leads people to smile, without showing off the great commitment and determination associated to the Ca’Marcanda project.

Purplish red in color, the nose presents a wonderful mixture of black fruits such as plums and blackcurrants. Notes of black tea, and hints of aromatic herbs commonly found in the Mediterranean like rosemary and thyme, lead to a structured mouthfeel with tannins that are denser and more elegant reflecting the style of the vintage all culminating with a salinity representative of a classic Bolgheri style. 

Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato 750ml

Experience the unique Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato, a distinctive Italian aromatized wine celebrated for its intricate blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and quinine. This enchanting drink captures the essence of Barolo wine, enhancing it with complex flavors that are hard to resist. Crafted from Barolo wine and infused with a medley of botanicals, it offers a unique tasting experience that has earned exceptional critical acclaim with dual 94-point scores. Ideal after a meal as a digestif, Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato is designed to tantalize your taste buds and stimulate your senses, making every sip memorable.

Outstanding Critical Acclaim - 94 Points

Jeb Dunnuck - 94 Points
"A rich but transparent amber, the NV Barolo Chinato reveals notes of blood orange, baking spice, mocha, and rosemary, followed by a medium to full-bodied red with sweetness and delicate, attractive bitterness in its hints of tea leaf and orange peel. Lifted and not heavy, it would be perfect paired with chocolate."

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 94 Points
"The Pio Cesare NV Barolo Chinato pours from the bottle with a dark amber color with shiny chestnut highlights. This fortified digestif shows amazing purity and intensity, with aromas that you can list and identify clearly one by one. There is balsam and medicinal herb with minty cough syrupy, cola and candied orange peel. With time, you might also sense some Moroccan spice or toasted Spanish cedarwood. The alcohol content is registered at 16% although it surely feels much higher. Balanced sweetness wraps smoothly over the palate. I'm never quite sure how to assign a drinking window to Barolo Chinato, and it is ostensibly built to last forever."

Pio Cesare Heritage

Pio Cesare is one of Piedmont's most prestigious wine producers, with a history dating back to 1881. For over 140 years, the Pio Cesare family has been crafting exceptional wines in the heart of Barolo country. Their Barolo Chinato represents a traditional Piedmontese specialty that showcases their commitment to quality and tradition.

What is Barolo Chinato?

Barolo Chinato is a distinctive Italian aromatized wine, a traditional Piedmontese specialty created by infusing Barolo wine with a blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and quinine (china bark). This fortified digestif combines the noble character of Barolo with complex botanical flavors, creating a unique tasting experience. The result is a rich, herbal profile that makes it perfect for sipping as a digestif or using in sophisticated cocktails.

Amazing Purity & Intensity

As Wine Advocate notes, this fortified digestif shows "amazing purity and intensity, with aromas that you can list and identify clearly one by one." The clarity and precision of the botanical infusion demonstrates Pio Cesare's mastery of this traditional specialty.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Rich but transparent amber. Dark amber color with shiny chestnut highlights
Aroma: Notes of blood orange, baking spice, mocha, and rosemary. Balsam and medicinal herb with minty cough syrupy character, cola and candied orange peel. Moroccan spice and toasted Spanish cedarwood. Hints of spices and herbs
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with sweetness and delicate, attractive bitterness. Hints of tea leaf and orange peel. Balanced sweetness wraps smoothly over the palate. Multifaceted, combining herbal, floral, and fruity notes. Layers of cherry, caramel, and floral essences. Smooth texture with vibrant flavors
Finish: Lifted and not heavy. Harmonious balance with lingering botanical complexity

16% Alcohol - Fortified Character

The alcohol content is registered at 16%, giving this aromatized wine a fortified character that enhances its complexity and longevity. As Wine Advocate notes, "it surely feels much higher," testament to the intensity and richness of the flavors.

Built to Last Forever

Wine Advocate observes: "I'm never quite sure how to assign a drinking window to Barolo Chinato, and it is ostensibly built to last forever." This exceptional longevity makes Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato a worthy addition to any collection, with the ability to age gracefully for years.

Perfect Pairing with Chocolate

As Jeb Dunnuck notes, this Barolo Chinato "would be perfect paired with chocolate." The combination of sweetness, bitterness, and complex botanicals creates an ideal match for chocolate desserts, making it an exceptional choice for after-dinner indulgence.

Versatile Serving Options

Enjoying Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato is quite versatile:

• Neat: Sip it at room temperature to appreciate full complexity
• On the rocks: Serve over ice for a refreshing digestif
• In cocktails: Mix into sophisticated cocktails for unique twist
• Negroni-style drinks: Try it as part of a Negroni variation
• With orange: Serve with a slice of orange to enhance citrus notes

Exceptional Food Pairing Suggestions

Its unique taste pairs wonderfully with:

• Chocolate desserts and dark chocolate
• Desserts and sweet treats
• Cheese platters and aged cheeses
• After-dinner service
• Biscotti and Italian cookies
• Nuts and dried fruits

Traditional Piedmontese Digestif

Barolo Chinato is a traditional Piedmontese specialty, historically enjoyed as a digestif after meals. The combination of Barolo wine, botanicals, and quinine creates a drink that aids digestion while providing a sophisticated conclusion to dining experiences.

Botanical Complexity

Crafted from Barolo wine and infused with a medley of botanicals and quinine, the flavor profile is multifaceted. The intricate blend of aromatic herbs and spices creates layers of complexity that reveal themselves with each sip, making it a delight for the palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply winding down after a long day, Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato promises to enhance any moment with its rich flavor and aromatic complexity. Its sophisticated character makes it ideal for entertaining or personal enjoyment.

Sophisticated Cocktail Ingredient

This makes it not only an excellent digestif but also a sophisticated cocktail ingredient that can elevate your beverage game. The unique taste and complex botanical profile add depth and character to creative cocktail creations.

Sensory Experience

The intriguing aroma carries hints of spices and herbs, enhancing the sensory experience. Every sip is designed to tantalize your taste buds and stimulate your senses, creating a memorable drinking experience that showcases the artistry of traditional Piedmontese winemaking.

Domaine de L’Arlot is one of the seminal properties in Nuits St. Georges.  The domaine was co-owned by Jean-Pierre de Smet, who spent eight years alongside Jacques Seysses of Domaine Dujac before taking over L’Arlot in 1986.  Today, the domaine consists of 14 hectares planted to mostly Pinot Noir. In 2015 the very talented Geraldine Godot took over the domaine. While retaining the core values of l’Arlot, including biodynamic farming, Geraldine has brought her own style to this historic estate, with extraction kept to a minimum, and the wines seeing less new oak than in the past. All of this is done to preserve the gorgeous fruit from their cherished vineyards. With Geraldine’s inspired leadership, Domaine de l’Arlot is committed to maintaining their classic, elegant style of terroir driven wines in hopes of providing the sort of divine pleasure only classic Burgundy delivers.

The 2023 Hautes Cotes de Nuits Le Mont has a fresh, juicy nose of raspberry and cherry that explodes on opening. The latest vintage of this wine is lively yet delicate on the palate, with silky, enveloping tannins. Its fleshy fruit flavors and rich structure make it an ideal accompaniment to dishes, such as beef fondue, country salad, chicken skewers with herbs or even aperitifs served with mushroom terrine canapes.

Experience Pinto Holot: A Unique Red Blend

Winemaker Description

Incredible body and richness, yet already balanced, tannins already very round. Great acidity and spice allow for a never-ending finish. Powerful and complex aromas of ripe black fruit, dried herbs and spices, coffee and dark chocolate.

A blend of Bordeaux varieties, but featuring the desert’s strong varieties – mostly Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot. After diluting fruit on the vines, we received grapes of remarkable concentration and quality. The result is a ‘big’ wine, which will age beautifully for years to come, and develop complexity and character. The wine was aged for over 12 months in oak barrels. Gives us a glimpse on the potential for great reds from the desert. HOLOT is a series of blends from varieties identified as best performers in the desert terroir. It is a result of meticulous care, from the vineyard – through the winemaking process. Holot Red is a blend of Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, all growing here in the desert.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2023 Pinto Winery "Holot" Red Blend is a premium, kosher wine produced in Israel's Negev Desert. This specific vintage is part of the winery's flagship series, which focuses on varieties that thrive in extreme desert terroir.

• Food Pairings: Best paired with robust dishes like grilled lamb, ribeye steak, hearty stews, or aged cheeses.

What Makes Pinto Holot Special?

Pinto Holot Red Blend is a remarkable wine that stands out due to its unique blend and exceptional quality. Sourced from the Negrev Desert, this kosher wine is crafted with care, ensuring a vibrant taste profile. The wine embodies both tradition and innovation, making it a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The carefully selected grapes provide a rich flavor that lingers with each sip, making it a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.

Tasting Notes and Food Pairings

This exquisite red blend is characterized by its bold flavors and a smooth finish. It boasts hints of dark berries, cherries, and subtle spices, creating a well-rounded palate that is hard to resist. Because of its complexity, Pinto Holot pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to rich pasta sauces, enhancing the dining experience. So, whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this wine is an excellent companion.

Why Choose Kosher Wine?

Kosher wines like Pinto Holot are produced under strict guidelines that ensure quality and integrity. These wines are not only suitable for those following kosher dietary laws but also offer a guarantee of excellence. The meticulous production methods contribute to a wine that is both flavorful and respectable. Therefore, choosing Pinto Holot means choosing a wine that is made with care, respect for tradition, and a passion for quality.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

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

Producer Description 

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

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

Failla · Willamette Valley Pinot Noir · 2023

Failla’s Willamette Valley Pinot Noir brings the winery’s cool-climate Pinot focus to Oregon. Founder Ehren Jordan has long explored how different vineyard sites shape the grape, from California’s coastal vineyards to the Willamette Valley. This 2023 bottling offers an aromatic, red-fruited expression for a dinner built around roast poultry or mushrooms.

Winemaker Description

Bright and aromatic with notes of pomegranate, orange zest, bright cherries, and dried herbs. This wine perfectly emphasizes the essence of the Willamette Valley.

Failla · Winemaker Description

Expert Review · 2023 Vintage

The 2023 Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) is a gorgeous and very serious appellation-level wine. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, white pepper, blood orange, mint, chalk and slate all meld together in this gracious, silky Pinot. What a beauty.

Vinous · 93 points

About Failla

Failla’s first vintage was released as Failla-Jordan in 1998. Ehren Jordan’s interest in distinct cool-climate sites has shaped the winery’s work with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Its Pinot program later expanded north to Oregon, including fruit from Seven Springs Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills.

At a Glance

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

Expert Review - Vintage 2008

97 Points Wine Spectator:  Like a stallion out of the gate, this shows an initial explosion of power, in the form of mouthwatering flavors and fine texture, before quickly settling into an elegant gait. The racy acidity is seamlessly knit, buoying the lacy mousse and flavors of cassis, toasted brioche and tangerine, with accents of candied ginger, hazelnut and fleur de sel lingering on the long, creamy finish. Drink now through 2035.

96 Points Wine Enthusiast:  The new release of this producer's prestige cuvée comes in its usual beautifully sculpted bottle. The Champagne, from a great vintage in the region, is just approaching maturity still showing minerality from the high amount of Chardonnay in the blend. Nutty flavors are creeping in, keeping the great texture adding complexity. Drink this very fine wine now although it will also age further.

96 Points Decanter: Rare Champagne boasts an illustrious past, with its first vintage having been presented to Marie Antoinette in 1785. The wine is produced in very limited quantities and is restricted to exceptional years, with only 11 vintages being declared over the past four decades of production. 70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir from selected grand cru vineyards. Simon Field MW: Gentle bead, lovely evolved notes of hazelnut, even a hint of praline, enrobed and ennobled by firm acidity and a persuasive finish. Alan Bednarski: Great, pure wine with still-fresh zesty flavours, delicate palate and sweet yeast notes, with a long flavourful finish of ripe melon. Tim Hall: A challenging, pressing start, wanting to overwhelm with shimmering and sharp attack, but shows intensity on the palate to match. Lovely lemon-apple notes and tempered texture.

96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: The 2008 Champagne Rare is luxurious with aromas of graham cracker, honeysuckle, quince, and orange zest. It is round and opulent, with a fine and pillowy mousse, and retains freshness throughout, with apricot and yellow flowers. It is impressive and long, and fully luxurious. Drinking well now, it is sure to hold its own for years to come. Drink 2022-2044.

93 Points Wine Advocate:  The newly released 2008 Brut Cuvée Rare is very promising, unwinding in the glass with a youthfully reserved nose of citrus oil, crisp green apple, freshly baked bread, iodine and oyster shell, as well as some rather herbaceous characteristics that depress my score a little, even if I suspect that they will resolve with a bit more bottle age. Medium to full-bodied, incisive and tightly wound, if the 2006 vintage was gourmand and demonstrative, the 2008 is slower to show all its cards. Built around racy acids and complemented by a pillowy mousse, this rendition of Cuvée Rare will reward a few years more on cork.

Prunotto Barbaresco Classico · Piedmont · 2023

Prunotto, part of the Antinori family portfolio, makes this Barbaresco from Nebbiolo grown in Piedmont's Langhe hills. A classic choice for the table, it brings together red-fruit character, floral lift and the structure that makes Barbaresco rewarding with food.

The existing tasting notes describe cherry, wild strawberry, rose petals, spice and earthy accents, with vibrant acidity and graceful tannins. Pair with roasted meats, mushroom dishes, truffle pasta or aged cheeses.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Graphite, macerated cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors highlight this supple, vibrant red. Remains succulent and balanced from beginning to end, with ample structure to age gracefully.

Wine Spectator · 93 points

Pouring a pale ruby color, the 2023 Barbaresco comes from vineyards in Barbaresco and Treiso, including fruit from Monteribaldi. It opens with a lifted and expressive bouquet of ripe strawberries, mixed berries, purple flowers, and dusty earth, with subtle darker undertones. Medium-bodied, it shows vibrant acidity, salinity, and bright fruit with wonderful length and energy. Destemmed and fermented in stainless steel and aged in large barrels, it’s already very appealing now but should age nicely as well.

Jeb Dunnuck · 92 points (2023 vintage)

A subtle wine with red-cherry and red-currant aromas, enhanced by camphor and a fresh floral bouquet. The supple, medium-bodied palate shows crisp acidity and lightly framed tannins, with grip in the finish. Drink or hold.

James Suckling · 92 points

Wine Details

• Producer: Prunotto (Antinori)
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Size: 750ml

Domaine Equis · Crozes-Hermitage · 2024

There are few names as revered in the Northern Rhône as Graillot. Maxime Graillot trained under his father, Alain, before establishing his own path in the vineyards of Crozes-Hermitage. At Domaine Equis, organic farming and careful work in the soil allow the northern Rhône terroir to speak through expressive, pure Syrah.

The 2024 Equinoxe opens with subtle orange blossom, violets, and earthy nuances. Medium-bodied and gently structured, it offers moderate concentration, soft tannins, and an effortless charm that makes it approachable now.

Vinous: 88 points
“The 2024 Crozes-Hermitage Equinoxe was vinified from fully destemmed grapes, opening with subtle orange blossom, violets and earthy shadings. Touching the medium-bodied palate with moderate flavor concentration wrapped around gentle tannins, the 2024 can be enjoyed right away.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Domaine Equis, Maxime Graillot
• Varietal: 100% Syrah
• Appellation: Crozes-Hermitage
• Region: Northern Rhône, France
• Closure: Screw Top
• Tasting notes: Orange blossom, violets, earthy nuances, gentle tannins, and a graceful finish
• Pair with: Roast chicken, grilled sausages, lamb, mushroom dishes, or roasted vegetables
• Size: 750ml

A pure Northern Rhône Syrah with violet lift, earthy detail, and effortless drinkability.

R. Pouillon & Fils | Soléra | Extra-Brut | Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne | 1997–2018 Base | Biodynamic

R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards according to organic and biodynamic principles, with a deep commitment to expressing the individual character of each parcel and the terroir of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.

Soléra Extra-Brut is one of Fabrice Pouillon's most distinctive and intellectually compelling Champagnes — a multi-vintage cuvée created from a perpetual reserve established in 1997, designed to diminish the influence of any single harvest and place the character of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ firmly at the center of the wine. Each year, approximately 30% of the soléra is drawn off for secondary fermentation and replaced with 30% wine from the new harvest. This continuous process allows numerous vintages to become seamlessly integrated, adding layers of maturity and complexity while preserving the freshness and vitality of the most recent wine.

The blend is an equal partnership of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Mareuil-sur-Aÿ — Pinot Noir contributing structure, depth, and vinous power; Chardonnay bringing freshness, lift, and finely defined acidity. From the creation of the soléra through the addition of the 2010 vintage, the reserve was aged entirely in stainless steel. It is now maintained in upright oak vessels with full malolactic fermentation — an evolution in élevage that contributes additional texture and dimension without obscuring the purity of the fruit or the mineral character of the terroir.

Electric and terroir-driven, with high-toned aromatics, fresh acidity, and exceptional length. The bouquet opens with orange zest, ripe pear, apple blossom, fennel seed, and warm brioche, with notes of steeped raspberry, whole-grain toast, honeycomb, spice, and a subtle hint of Timut pepper. On the palate, medium- to full-bodied, bright, and seamless — generous fruit and layered texture balanced by tangy acidity and ample chalky extract. A fine, persistent mousse carries the flavors across the palate, while the Extra-Brut dosage keeps the finish dry, precise, and energetic. Light on its feet yet possessing remarkable depth and intensity, continuing to unfold with each sip.

Pair with oysters, lobster, roasted poultry, mushroom dishes, smoked fish, aged Comté, and other firm or nutty cheeses.

• Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
• Cuvée: Soléra Extra-Brut
• Style: Multi-vintage Extra-Brut
• Appellation: Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France
• Blend: 50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir
• Soléra Established: 1997; most recent addition 2018
• Method: ~30% drawn off and replaced annually with new harvest wine
• Farming: Organic & biodynamic principles
• Élevage: Initially stainless steel (through 2010); now upright oak vessels; full malolactic fermentation
• Dosage: Extra-Brut
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim

• Wine Advocate — 94 pts: Orange zest, pear, fennel seeds, warm brioche, and a hint of Timut pepper. Medium- to full-bodied, bright, and seamless with striking complexity. Ample chalky extract and tangy acidity define its structure, with a persistent mousse through the long finish.
• Wine Spectator — 92 pts: Rapier-like acidity with expressive flavors of steeped raspberry, whole-grain toast, apple blossom, and a touch of honeycomb.

Expert Reviews

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

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

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

The Dalton Alma Rosé is a dry, elegant kosher rosé from Israel's Galilee region, crafted from handpicked Grenache and Pinot Gris. Aged six months, it delivers a refined balance of fresh red fruit, floral notes, and a crisp, lingering finish. Best enjoyed well-chilled alongside grilled fish, spicy cuisine, or Mediterranean mezze.

Swick Wines · Willamette Valley · 2023 · 750ml

A native Oregonian, Joe Swick came home in 2013 after a decade of working harvests around the globe. He partners exclusively with organic and biodynamic growers in the cold-climate corners of Oregon and Washington, using a hands-off approach and no conventional additives, just grapes and, only when truly needed, a touch of SO2. Swick is part of a movement rewriting West Coast winemaking, from skin-contact and field blends to Pét-Nats, making energetic, fresh vins de soif that change with every vintage.

The 2023 Pinot Noir is a two-vineyard blend: Greyhorse in Yamhill-Carlton brings weight and ripeness, while Morning Mist in Sheridan adds tension and acid. It's made whole cluster and foot-stomped, then spends 45 days on skins and 18 months in neutral French oak. At 500 cases, it's Swick's most accessible wine.

Tasting Notes

Light purple in the glass, with mushroom and plum on the nose. Acid-forward on the palate with lighter tannin than you'd expect, fresh, lively and easy to love.

Winemaker Description

"Our philosophy is to make our wines as naked and raw as we possibly can while having them be fun and delicious. We work with organically farmed vineyards in the colder regions of Oregon and Washington State. We love wines with acid and freshness. We make the wine that we love to drink. No conventional additives. Just grapes and (sometimes) a very small amount of SO2 to keep the wine stable in bottle. Wine is a fermented beverage that should not be a trophy or a status symbol. Wines made in this fashion are artisanal products that reflect their artist and terroir with no maquillage."

Joseph Swick, Winemaker/Proprietor

Expert Review

"A terrific Willamette Valley Pinot Noir to drink right now! The bouquet is fresh and enticing with aromas of freshly crushed berries and violets with a lovely earthy complexity. This is a Pinot Noir with true character: succulent texture, expressive flavors and perfectly balanced tannins and acidity. A joy to drink and to savor with your favorite meals."

Bart Hopkins, Senior Sommelier | 67wino.shop

Pairings & Serving

Serve lightly cool, around 55–60°F. Great with salmon, mushroom risotto and mild curries, or, as Joe says, whatever's in the fridge. A perfect Tuesday-night Pinot.

Specs

• Producer: Swick Wines
• Winemaker: Joseph Swick
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
• Vineyards: Greyhorse (Yamhill-Carlton) and Morning Mist (Sheridan)
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Winemaking: Whole cluster, foot-stomped, 45 days on skins
• Aging: 18 months in neutral French oak
• Farming: Organic, no conventional additives
• Production: 500 cases
• Size: 750ml

Naked, raw and delicious: Oregon Pinot the way Joe Swick likes to drink it.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

Wine Advocate 94 Points: Pretty aromas of honey, allspice and roasted almonds complement a core of peach and quince fruit. The medium-bodied palate is satiny and expansive with a dynamic interplay of textural breadth and energetic acidity, offering layered flavors on the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points: Refined and elegant, with notes of pure white flowers, lemon curd, and white peach. Medium to full-bodied with a silky mouthfeel driven by citrus — tangerine, orange sherbet — with great texture and a long, decadent finish.

Wine Spectator 91 Points: Polished and sleekly layered, with honeydew, pear and spice flavors that build structure toward the handsome finish. Drink now through 2026. 220 cases made.

Winemaker Description

Brick House Chardonnay Cascadia Organic Biodynamic 2021 750ml

Brick House’s “Cascadia” is the winery’s reserve-level Chardonnay — a highly regarded, estate-grown wine from Oregon’s Ribbon Ridge AVA. Hand-crafted on a 40-acre farm that has been at the forefront of sustainable viticulture for decades, it is made with an Old World sensibility: organic and biodynamic farming, minimal intervention, and an unwavering focus on terroir expression. One of Oregon’s benchmark Chardonnays.

Pairing Suggestions

• Rich Seafood: Scallops in brown butter, roasted salmon, or halibut with lemon-cream sauce.
• Poultry: Roast chicken with herbes de Provence or pheasant.
• Earthy Dishes: Mushroom risotto, truffle pasta, or roasted root vegetables.