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2019 Dei Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (750ml)

Sangiovese from Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Declared “one of the headline wineries in Montepulciano” by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, B-21 fans and collectors of rich Tuscan reds won’t need convincing to stock up on the enticing 93 pt. 2019 Dei Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a powerful Sangiovese revealing bright, aromatic red fruit hinting of wild herbs and earthy spice with a smooth, enduring finish, earning a coveted spot on this year's Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2023 and an outstanding value promising pleasurable drinking for years to come.

Situated in the spectacular countryside southeast of Siena in Tuscany’s oldest appellation, Cantine Dei produces terroir-driven Sangiovese from the vineyards surrounding the medieval town of Montepulciano, its 2019 Vino Nobile awarded the top rating of Tre Bicchieri or “three glasses” by Italy’s most prestigious wine publication Gambero Rosso, known by insiders as the “Wine Bible of Italy.” Producing its first wines in 1985 and run by third generation Caterina Dei since 1991, the Cantine Dei estate extends over 100 hectares in the rolling hills of the historic Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, its 60 hectares of organically farmed vineyards located throughout the region and reflecting its diverse terroir. Sourced from the estate’s Martiena, La Ciarliana and Cervognano vineyards, the Sangiovese vines for the 2019 Vino Nobile are planted in a mix of tuff, limestone and sandy clay soils at 250 to 350 meters above sea level, the high-altitude vineyards producing richly concentrated fruit with well balanced acidity. A blend of mostly Sangiovese fermented in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts, the lush 2019 Dei Vino di Montepulciano was aged for 18 months in large Slavonian oak casks followed by over 8 months in bottle, yielding “a skillful interpretation of terroir and vintage” according to Decanter’s Michaela Morris with richly textured fruit and layers of well-integrated tannins promising longevity.

Ranked among an elite group of 2019’s top scoring Vino Nobiles from a region “that should be on everyone’s radar” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Kerin O’Keefe, the rich and elegant 93 pt. 2019 Dei Vino Nobile di Montepulciano “continues to be one of the benchmarks in its category and an amazing value as well” according to Vinous critic Eric Guido, matching in quality to its higher profile Tuscan neighbors at a bargain price and a sure bet for lovers of bold Sangiovese wines seeking an outstanding value to enjoy whenever a taste of Tuscany calls.

93WS #34 Top 100 93JS 92V

A smooth red, with cherry, plum and spice flavors shaded by savory underbrush and wild herb accents. Shows iron and tobacco details on the long finish, with fine balance and grip overall. Prugnolo Gentile and Canaiolo. Best from 2024 through 2040. 10,000 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.

93 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Oct 2023)

#34 - Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2023

Extremely perfumed and fresh with an elegant and attractive nose. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine, delicate tannins and a delicious finish. So delicious. Drink now.

93 points, James Suckling (Aug 2022)

Wild herbs, black cherries and exotic spices create a wildly inviting bouquet as the 2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano opens in the glass. This is undeniably silky and elegant on the palate. Fleshy red fruits are neatly framed by bright acids, as balsam and mocha notes form toward the close. The 2019 leaves a gentle staining of fine tannins to linger, along with a sour citrus hint that adds contrast. This is simply a pleasure today but has short-term cellaring potential.

92 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (Feb 2023)

$24.98

Compare At: $29.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2021 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine (750ml)

Zinfandel from California

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Described by Decanter as a vintage of “powerfully-constructed, brambly, spicy reds,” these high scoring 2021 Zinfandels are crafted by California’s top Zinfandel experts, sourced from a range of terroirs that include some of the region's oldest vines and offering exceptional value for Zin lovers whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case.

From the estate called “a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 95 pt. 2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel includes old vine Zinfandel ranging from 90 to over 120 years, yielding a “well balanced, elegant wine” with “light, toasty oak accents” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon. Bedrock winemaker Morgan Twain-Peterson produced the 94 pt. 2020 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine from vines averaging around 80 years old, delivering ripe spiced fruit “with good structure, fresh acidity and fine tannins” according to Jeb Dunnuck who calls it “an outstanding value” ready to enjoy over the next few years. Described as a fresher, approachable expression of the grape, the 93 pt. 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel is "a serious Zinfandel" boasting ripe red fruit with "decadent baking spice notes” and “structured grippy tannins" according to Decanter’s Jonathan Cristaldi, while the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish calls Seghesio Family Vineyards “one of California's elite Zinfandel specialists,” the 94 pt. 2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel sourced from gnarly head-pruned vines averaging 75 years of age with pronounced notes of bramble and peppery spice. Produced in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley with its oldest vines dating back to 1910, the bright and juicy 93 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel is “an absolute winner” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous that's “packed with varietal character," boasting the structure to evolve over the next few years. Named for founder Lee Martinelli’s grandparents who first planted grapes in the Russian River in the 1880’s, the rich and elegant 97 pt. 2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard offers alluring aromatic fruit layered with spice and fresh juicy acidity, while the richly textured 95 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel 1910 Block from the estate's oldest block of vines is “a gutsy version, built in an old-school style” according to the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish, both powerfully built Zins that will evolve for another decade.

From a cooler, uneventful growing season that “resulted in especially elegant, expressive wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, these highly rated, site-expressive 2021 Zinfandels offer an appealing range of styles and age-ability from diverse vineyards that include some of the region’s top old vine sites, all value priced and promising Zin fans who stock up some delicious drinking ahead.

94WS

Spry and briary, this Zinfandel is fun to drink, with lively black cherry, licorice and dried sage flavors, which take on richness and cracked pepper accents toward zesty tannins. Drink now through 2031. 4,000 cases made.

94 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (May 2023)

$22.98

Compare At: $25.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2015 Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Tinto Crianza (750ml)

Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain

B-21 Top Recommendation
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“Lopez de Heredia is the apotheosis of traditional, classic wines: taut, fresh, bucolic, utterly charming and amazingly long-lived.”

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate

Aged for nearly as long as many Gran Reserva Riojas at a fraction of the price, the remarkable 93 pt. 2015 Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Tinto Crianza is without a doubt one of the region's top values in classically styled Rioja, its fresh, bright red fruit balanced by juicy, tantalizing acidity and finishing long with smooth tannins, crafted by the historic estate described as the “Rioja standard-bearer” by the Wine Spectator’s Gillian Sciaretta and over delivering in a big way for fans and collectors of age worthy Spanish reds.

Accessed through a labyrinth of vaulted underground corridors and staircases, visitors to the massive cobweb-laced cellars of Lopez de Heredia find themselves in a setting reminiscent of a Hitchcock film, but make no mistake - these damp, moldy cellars are the present day ground zero for the region's most classically styled and meticulously aged Riojas and essential to Lopez de Heredia’s iconic wine making legacy. Stretched over the length of two football fields below their bodega in Haro’s famed Barrio de la Estacion, the Lopez de Heredia cellars boast over 13,000 225-liter American oak barrels of varied ages, the winery continuously family owned and operated since 1877 and now run by fourth generation Maria Jose Lopez de Heredia and her sister Mercedes. Described as “the most traditional among Rioja traditionalists” by the Wine Advocate’s Luis Gutierrez, Lopez de Heredia sources its wines from estate vineyards spanning over 124 hectares, crafting the 2015 Vina Cubillo from a blend of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha grown in a mix of alluvial clay and limestone in the estate’s sustainably farmed Vina Cubillo vineyard located a few kilometers from the winery at over 400 meters above sea level. Fermented spontaneously in a mix of neutral wooden casks some dating back over a century, the fresh and long-lived 2015 Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Tinto Crianza was aged for 3 years in well-seasoned American oak barrels then transferred to larger neutral casks before further extended aging in bottle, released only when ready to enjoy and displaying exceptional “depth and capacity to please” according to Decanter’s Simon Field.

Summing up its rich potential to continue to evolve, critic Neal Martin declared, "a bottle of Lopez de Heredia is an individual and each time you meet, you may see a different side to its personality," the deliciously satisfying 93 pt. 2015 Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Tinto Crianza an elegant, classically styled Rioja with underlying intensity that promises a fabulous ride for Rioja lovers seeking a bargain priced red to reach for again and again.

93WA

The 2015 Viña Cubillo Tinto Crianza reflects the warmer conditions of the year, and with the riper fruit they picked to produce this wine, they still managed to keep around 13.5% alcohol. The Cubillo vineyard has more clay, and sometimes clay soils take heat better and make the wines fresher than those from poorer soils. 140,000 bottles produced.

93 points, Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate (Jul 2022)

$21.98

Compare At: $24.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2022 Villa Sparina Gavi di Gavi (750ml)

Cortese from Gavi, Piedmont, Italy

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

A jewel of a Piedmont white wine delivering remarkable value, the crisp and elegant 91 pt. 2022 Villa Sparina Gavi di Gavi balances fresh, aromatic citrus and stone fruit flavors with racy, mineral-driven acidity, a delicious, top rated Gavi for Italian wine lovers and anyone seeking a beautifully crafted dry white wine that’s bargain priced for stocking the cooler.

Perched on a hilltop in the southern end of Piedmont, the winding drive up to Villa Sparina welcomes guests with all the trappings of a luxury resort and spa, its chic hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant set above a magnificent labyrinth of cellars where Villa Sparina crafts its consistently top scoring Gavi di Gavi from the local grape Cortese. Earning the title of “European Winery of the Year” in 2021 from the Wine Enthusiast, the estate spans 100 hectares in the middle of the Gavi DOCG, surrounded by gardens and meadows with 70 hectares of vines and run by second generation siblings Stefano, Tiziana and Massimo Moccagatta. Planted mainly to Cortese in clay and marl soils, Villa Sparina’s organically farmed vineyards are located at altitudes between 250 to 300 meters above sea level on a mostly south and southwest aspect that promotes even ripening, enjoying the moderating maritime influence of the nearby Ligurian Sea to the south. Sourced from Cortese vines averaging 30 years of age, the hand-harvested grapes for the 2022 Villa Sparina Gavi di Gavi were fermented in stainless steel for three weeks and immediately bottled in its striking amphora-shaped bottles to preserve freshness, the unique bottle design inspired by the discovery of an ancient Roman vase during the estate’s restoration.

Reflecting the estate’s long-standing reputation for producing “serious Gavi as always” according to James Suckling, the fresh and vibrant 91 pt. 2022 Villa Sparina Gavi di Gavi boasts lush aromatic fruit hinting of Ligurian sea breezes on a refreshing, crisp finish, a crowd pleasing Italian white wine equally delicious for sipping or when paired with food at an unbeatable wallet-friendly price

91JS

A tangy and fresh Gavi full of sliced apples, lemon zest and stones. Medium-bodied and textured on the palate with fresh, vibrant acidity and a pure, pithy finish. Drink now.

91 points, Zekun Shuai, James Suckling (Jul 2023)

$15.98

Compare At: $17.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel (750ml)

Zinfandel from Sonoma, California

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

Described by Decanter as a vintage of “powerfully-constructed, brambly, spicy reds,” these high scoring 2021 Zinfandels are crafted by California’s top Zinfandel experts, sourced from a range of terroirs that include some of the region's oldest vines and offering exceptional value for Zin lovers whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case.

From the estate called “a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 95 pt. 2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel includes old vine Zinfandel ranging from 90 to over 120 years, yielding a “well balanced, elegant wine” with “light, toasty oak accents” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon. Bedrock winemaker Morgan Twain-Peterson produced the 94 pt. 2020 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine from vines averaging around 80 years old, delivering ripe spiced fruit “with good structure, fresh acidity and fine tannins” according to Jeb Dunnuck who calls it “an outstanding value” ready to enjoy over the next few years. Described as a fresher, approachable expression of the grape, the 93 pt. 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel is "a serious Zinfandel" boasting ripe red fruit with "decadent baking spice notes” and “structured grippy tannins" according to Decanter’s Jonathan Cristaldi, while the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish calls Seghesio Family Vineyards “one of California's elite Zinfandel specialists,” the 94 pt. 2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel sourced from gnarly head-pruned vines averaging 75 years of age with pronounced notes of bramble and peppery spice. Produced in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley with its oldest vines dating back to 1910, the bright and juicy 93 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel is “an absolute winner” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous that's “packed with varietal character," boasting the structure to evolve over the next few years. Named for founder Lee Martinelli’s grandparents who first planted grapes in the Russian River in the 1880’s, the rich and elegant 97 pt. 2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard offers alluring aromatic fruit layered with spice and fresh juicy acidity, while the richly textured 95 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel 1910 Block from the estate's oldest block of vines is “a gutsy version, built in an old-school style” according to the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish, both powerfully built Zins that will evolve for another decade.

From a cooler, uneventful growing season that “resulted in especially elegant, expressive wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, these highly rated, site-expressive 2021 Zinfandels offer an appealing range of styles and age-ability from diverse vineyards that include some of the region’s top old vine sites, all value priced and promising Zin fans who stock up some delicious drinking ahead.

94WS

That rare Zinfandel with finesse and briary fruit, offering wild berry, mocha and black licorice flavors that gather richness and zest toward lively tannins. Drink now through 2031.

94 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (Jun 2023

2018 Marina Cvetic Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva San Martino Rosso (750ml)

Montepulciano from Abruzzo, Italy

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Described by Antonio Galloni of Vinous as “a reference point producer for rich, internationally styled wines from Abruzzo,” the 94 pt. 2018 Marina Cvetic Riserva San Martino boasts rich, fragrant dark fruit hinting of forest and spice balanced by bright acidity and elegant silky tannins, a lush and delicious expression of Montepulciano grown in the high-altitude terroir above Italy’s Adriatic Coast that delivers outstanding value.

Driven by his vision to transform Abruzzo into a world class wine region, founder Gianni Masciarelli set out to change the reputation and quality of Italy’s second most planted grape from the ground up, introducing the Guyot method of vine training to reduce yields, employing sustainable farming practices and purchasing only optimal vineyard parcels across the region to produce his wines. Making “irrefutable” contributions to Abruzzo’s winemaking according to critic Antonio Galloni including aging in barrels in lieu of concrete, Gianni began with two hectares of his grandfather’s vineyards in 1991 and expanded to over 300 hectares over the next decades, his well-crafted Abruzzo wines gaining international acclaim that has continued under the direction of his wife, Marina Cvetic, for whom the cuvee was named and now joined by their eldest daughter Miriam Lee. Sourced from eight of the estate’s top parcels, the vineyards for the 2018 Marina Cvetic Riserva are planted in a range of soils from calcareous clay to gravelly rocky at 200 to 400 meters above sea level throughout the four provinces of Abruzzo, enjoying a unique microclimate on Abruzzo’s narrow strip of rugged terrain between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea with cooling breezes that moderate temperatures and prevent disease. Fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness, winemaker Attilio Alfino aged the 2018 Marina Cvetic Riserva San Martino Rosso in French oak barriques for 12 months and another 12 months in bottle before release, creating a dark fruited, opulently textured Montepulciano that’s “silky smooth and juicy in style” according to Eric Guido of Vinous with an “incredibly long, yet remarkably fresh” finish, summing it up as a “fully enjoyable expression of Montepulciano.”

Described as successfully building “on Gianni Mascarelli’s blueprint” by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, the 94 pt. 2018 Marina Cvetic Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Riserva San Martino Rosso reveals richly concentrated Montepulciano fruit expressing the complexity of its diverse terroir, a superb deal from the lesser heralded Abruzzo region described as “one of Italy’s best kept secrets” by Decanter’s Andrea Briccarello that translates to a great deal on a delicious everyday Italian wine.

94JS 92WA 92WE

Complex aromas of crushed black fruit, dried lemon peel, kalonji seeds and more if you linger. Full-bodied palate, where the intense fruit coats the medium-grain tannins on the center-palate and continues to push through the wall as the tannins firm up towards the end. The finish is already long and fruity and will only lengthen as the wine matures in bottle. Super quality here. Try from 2024.

94 points, James Suckling (Nov 2021)

The 2018 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva S. Martino Rosso Marina Cvetic is super rich and concentrated but also incredibly smooth and ironed out in terms of texture. The wine does taper down considerably on the palate, offering soft tannins and more reasonable human-sized black fruit concentration. The Masciarelli family does a top-notch job following the winemaking vision of the late and great Gianni Masciarelli.

92 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Jun 2023)

Aromas of brandy-soaked dark cherry, anise, allspice and chopped mint show depth, concentration and purity in this Montepulciano that sees time in French oak. It's rich in feel on the palate, but counterbalanced by a bright core of acidity that pushes along the dense berry and spice flavors. There's a polish to it all that makes it accessible in the near term, but it would also hold well through 2028.

92 points, Alexander Peartree, Wine Enthusiast (Mar 2021)

$19.98

Compare At: $23.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml)

Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries.

98D 97WS

"A very Clos des Papes vintage," says Vincent Avril, and I know what he means - a vintage that naturally delivers the kind of fresh, elegant wines that this estate is famous for. A tasting of several foudres point to a wine with natural, easy balance. The Mourvèdre is excellent here this year, and adds great depth to the fresh and delightful Grenache that has notes of black tea, black cherry and iron. Elegant and very fine.

98 points, Matt Walls, Decanter (Sep 2021)

Beguiling, with a plume of black tea and incense leading off, followed by warmed black cherry reduction, cassis, melted black licorice, warm earth and singed tobacco and garrigue accents. Offers breadth and depth with a seamless feel, capped by a subtle mineral edge that lingers lengthily amid the beautiful fruit. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2024 through 2040.

97 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Nov 2022)

$89.98

Compare At: $99.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2021 Raventos i Blanc Blanc de Blancs (750ml)

Xarel-lo from Catalonia, Spain

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

For over an astonishing 500 years, the Raventos family has been involved with winemaking in the Catalonia region, growing grapes on their historic family-owned estate west of Barcelona since 1497. Inspired by his belief that the fossilized marine limestone soils in the windswept Anoia River Valley would yield a complex sparkling wine, Josep Raventos Fatjo was the first to apply the traditional method used to make Champagne to classic Penedes grape varietals in the late 1800s, his son Manuel later pioneering the blend of the three indigenous grapes, Xarel.lo, Macabeu, and Parellada, that would become the standard for Cava. Witnessing the decline in the quality and reputation of Cava over the next century, the Raventos family separated itself in the 1980s from the Codorniu winery it had founded to focus on making vineyard-driven sparkling wines from their 90-hectare estate, officially withdrawing from the Cava classification in 2012 and championing the creation of a new D.O. with higher standards in the Conca del Riu Anoia area. Crafting the blend of native grapes from biodynamically farmed vines averaging 40 years of age, 21st generation winemaker Pepe Raventos vinified each varietal in stainless steel tanks before blending and bottling it for the secondary fermentation, then aged the 2021 Raventos i Blanc Blanc de Blancs on the lees for a minimum of 18 months, twice the requirement for Cava, yielding fresh, layered fruit with tantalizing minerality balanced by mouthwatering acidity on a creamy mousse.

Described as “one of Spain’s finest and most complex sparkling wines” by Vinous critic Josh Raynolds, declaring it “one of the greatest bubbly values in the world,” the elegant 90 pt. 2021 Raventos i Blanc Blanc de Blancs is a uniquely Spanish sparkler reflecting its mineral-rich terroir, impeccably crafted in the Champagne style and certain to appeal to lovers of the world’s finest sparkling wines looking for a fantastic value.

90WS

Fresh and focused, with a lacy texture, this is a minerally version overall, showing hints of smoke and stone on the nose, plus a salty underpinning to the palate's range of tangerine, ripe yellow plum, blanched almond and chamomile. Xarel-lo, Macabeu, Parellada and Malvasia de Sitges. Disgorged March 2023. Drink now through 2026. 16,600 cases made, 9,000 cases imported.

90 points, Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator (Oct 2023)

$17.98

Compare At: $19.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard (750ml)

Zinfandel from Russian River, California

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

Described by Decanter as a vintage of “powerfully-constructed, brambly, spicy reds,” these high scoring 2021 Zinfandels are crafted by California’s top Zinfandel experts, sourced from a range of terroirs that include some of the region's oldest vines and offering exceptional value for Zin lovers whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case.

From the estate called “a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 95 pt. 2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel includes old vine Zinfandel ranging from 90 to over 120 years, yielding a “well balanced, elegant wine” with “light, toasty oak accents” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon. Bedrock winemaker Morgan Twain-Peterson produced the 94 pt. 2020 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine from vines averaging around 80 years old, delivering ripe spiced fruit “with good structure, fresh acidity and fine tannins” according to Jeb Dunnuck who calls it “an outstanding value” ready to enjoy over the next few years. Described as a fresher, approachable expression of the grape, the 93 pt. 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel is "a serious Zinfandel" boasting ripe red fruit with "decadent baking spice notes” and “structured grippy tannins" according to Decanter’s Jonathan Cristaldi, while the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish calls Seghesio Family Vineyards “one of California's elite Zinfandel specialists,” the 94 pt. 2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel sourced from gnarly head-pruned vines averaging 75 years of age with pronounced notes of bramble and peppery spice. Produced in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley with its oldest vines dating back to 1910, the bright and juicy 93 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel is “an absolute winner” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous that's “packed with varietal character," boasting the structure to evolve over the next few years. Named for founder Lee Martinelli’s grandparents who first planted grapes in the Russian River in the 1880’s, the rich and elegant 97 pt. 2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard offers alluring aromatic fruit layered with spice and fresh juicy acidity, while the richly textured 95 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel 1910 Block from the estate's oldest block of vines is “a gutsy version, built in an old-school style” according to the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish, both powerfully built Zins that will evolve for another decade.

From a cooler, uneventful growing season that “resulted in especially elegant, expressive wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, these highly rated, site-expressive 2021 Zinfandels offer an appealing range of styles and age-ability from diverse vineyards that include some of the region’s top old vine sites, all value priced and promising Zin fans who stock up some delicious drinking ahead.

97WA

The 2021 Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa is expressive, perfumed and a pleasure to drink—it offers restraint over power, detail over density and is one of those graceful California Zinfandels that seems more akin to Pinot Noir with its berry fruit and earthy layers. It has alluring scents of raspberry jam and tangerine with accents of lavender, mushrooms and fallen leaves, and the medium-bodied palate is supple and juicy with layer after layer of perfumed fruit. 1,630 cases were made.

97 points, Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate (Sep 2023)

$49.98

Compare At: $54.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2021 Torbreck Woodcutter's Shiraz (750ml)

Shiraz from Barossa, Australia

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

From the iconic Barossa winery ranked among the “upper level of all Australian producers” according to Vinous critic Josh Raynolds, the rich and powerful 96 pt. 2021 Torbreck Woodcutter’s Shiraz boasts a core of juicy, dark fruit with layers of structured, savory tannins on a long finish, a go-to Shiraz for savvy Aussie fans seeking outstanding value to enjoy over the next decade at a bargain price.

Founded by veteran Barossa winemaker David Powell three decades ago, Torbreck has remained a leader in the region since its purchase by Pete Kight, rising to “its best form yet” according to Angus Hughson of Vinous under former Peter Lehmann winemaker Ian Hongell who has been crafting the estate's wines including the Woodcutter's Shiraz since 2017. Called “one of the most exciting regions on earth for Shiraz” by the Wine Advocate’s Erin Larson, Torbreck has been a key player in Barossa’s evolution to a lower intervention, vineyard driven approach over the last decade, employing a greater understanding of the diversity within the region and producing “sleeker, age-worthy wines with subtle balance and sophistication” according to critic Angus Hughson. Considered its entry level Shiraz, the impressive 2021 Torbreck Woodcutter’s Shiraz is sourced from younger vines in Barossa’s cooler Eden Valley blended with hand harvested old vine fruit from the warmer Barossa valley floor, open fermented and aged in well-seasoned hogsheads and French oak foudres for 12 months to reveal luxurious fruit hinting of pepper and spice expertly balanced by refined acidity with seamlessly integrated oak, the cooler 2021 vintage creating “wines with power and grace that should age very well” according to Vinous critic Angus Hughson.

Described as offering “a taste of the Torbreck style at a reasonable price” by the Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski, the richly textured 96 pt. 2021 Torbreck Woodcutter’s Shiraz is meticulously crafted to reflect Barossa’s exceptional terroir, promising lovers of Aussie Shiraz a decade of pleasurable drinking at an unbeatably affordable price.

96JS

Lovely ripened blackberries and raspberries. Al dente. Full-bodied yet so refined and focused with crisp acidity and ultra-fine, creamy tannins. Succulent and crunchy but focused and structured. Bright and purposeful. Drink after 2024 but already hard to hold back. Screw cap.

96 points, James Suckling (Nov 2022)

$22.98

Compare At: $24.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Chateau Clos Lunelles (750ml)

Merlot from Côtes de Castillon, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

94JS 94WA 94JD 93V

Lots of chalk, dark-fruit, bark and mushroom character. Violets, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, juicy tannins and a fresh finish.

93-94 points, James Suckling (Jun 2021)

The 2020 Clos Lunelles is composed of 80% Merlot, coming in with an alcohol of 14.79% and a pH of 3.65. It is being aged in French oak barriques, 50% new. Deep purple-black colored, it springs from the glass with vibrant notes of crushed black cherries and black raspberries, giving way to hints of wild blueberries, chocolate box and cardamom with a touch of violets. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of crunchy, energetic black and red fruits, supported by fine-grained tannins and oodles of freshness, finishing long and lifted.

92-94 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (May 2021)

Brilliant stuff from the team at Pavie, the 2020 Clos Lunelles boasts fabulous Castillon minerality as well as lots of cassis and black raspberry fruits, notes of spicy oak and white flowers, medium to full-bodied richness, vivid purity of fruit, and a great, balanced, lengthy style that just begs to be drunk. It’s worth a case purchase and should keep for 15 years.

92-94 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Jun 2021)

The 2020 Clos Lunelles is plush, sensual and wonderfully inviting. Inky dark fruit, licorice, lavender and spice envelop the palate. Forward and juicy right out of the bottle. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this gem. The 2020 has an extra kick of vibrancy that works balances the natural intensity of the year.

91-93 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Jun 2021)

2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel (750ml)

Zinfandel from Napa, California

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Described by Decanter as a vintage of “powerfully-constructed, brambly, spicy reds,” these high scoring 2021 Zinfandels are crafted by California’s top Zinfandel experts, sourced from a range of terroirs that include some of the region's oldest vines and offering exceptional value for Zin lovers whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case.

From the estate called “a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 95 pt. 2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel includes old vine Zinfandel ranging from 90 to over 120 years, yielding a “well balanced, elegant wine” with “light, toasty oak accents” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon. Bedrock winemaker Morgan Twain-Peterson produced the 94 pt. 2020 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine from vines averaging around 80 years old, delivering ripe spiced fruit “with good structure, fresh acidity and fine tannins” according to Jeb Dunnuck who calls it “an outstanding value” ready to enjoy over the next few years. Described as a fresher, approachable expression of the grape, the 93 pt. 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel is "a serious Zinfandel" boasting ripe red fruit with "decadent baking spice notes” and “structured grippy tannins" according to Decanter’s Jonathan Cristaldi, while the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish calls Seghesio Family Vineyards “one of California's elite Zinfandel specialists,” the 94 pt. 2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel sourced from gnarly head-pruned vines averaging 75 years of age with pronounced notes of bramble and peppery spice. Produced in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley with its oldest vines dating back to 1910, the bright and juicy 93 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel is “an absolute winner” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous that's “packed with varietal character," boasting the structure to evolve over the next few years. Named for founder Lee Martinelli’s grandparents who first planted grapes in the Russian River in the 1880’s, the rich and elegant 97 pt. 2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard offers alluring aromatic fruit layered with spice and fresh juicy acidity, while the richly textured 95 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel 1910 Block from the estate's oldest block of vines is “a gutsy version, built in an old-school style” according to the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish, both powerfully built Zins that will evolve for another decade.

From a cooler, uneventful growing season that “resulted in especially elegant, expressive wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, these highly rated, site-expressive 2021 Zinfandels offer an appealing range of styles and age-ability from diverse vineyards that include some of the region’s top old vine sites, all value priced and promising Zin fans who stock up some delicious drinking ahead.

93D

Arresting aromatics of clove, five spice and blackberries are followed on by wild fennel and violets. Undeniably ripe, this Zinfandel has loads of freshness, spiced berry flavours, and tangy blackberry notes alongside cocoa powder and sweet plum.

93 points, Clive Pursehouse, Decanter (Aug 2023)

$29.98

Compare At: $34.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2019 Clos Apalta (750ml)

Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile

B-21 Top Recommendation
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“There’s no doubt that Clos Apalta is one of the world’s greatest red wines.”

James Suckling

The powerful 99pt 2019 Clos Apalta from Chile’s Casa Lapostolle is a stunner, an elegantly crafted Bordeaux-style blend offering layers of dark plush fruit with rippling, juicy tannins on a lengthy finish, a perennial B-21 favorite that’s guaranteed to sell out quickly at our best on the market pricing.

Arriving in the Colchagua Valley in 1994, French Grand Marnier heiress Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet were inspired by the exceptional Chilean terroir to craft a world class wine, tapping into the winemaking expertise of renowned French oenologist Michel Rolland to lead the restoration of the century old vineyards and construction of a new state of the art winery. Releasing this 22^nd vintage now under the direction of their son Charles-Henri de Bournet, Clos Apalta is the only South American wine ever to garner the coveted #1 spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100, named an astounding five times to the list and regularly earning “classic” ratings of 95 pts. and above. Sourced mainly from two blocks of old vines planted in a myriad of granitic soils in the 1920’s, the biodynamically farmed Clos Apalta vineyards are in the shadow of the towering coastal Cordillera Mountains, protected from the searing sun while enjoying a cool maritime mist most mornings that creates optimal conditions for ripening Carmenere while maintaining its freshness and acidity. Blending mostly Carmenere with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and a little Petit Verdot, winemaker Jacques Begarie aged the 99 pt. 2019 Clos Apalta for 24 months in 90% new French oak barrels before bottling without filtering or fining, yielding lush complexity and hedonistic richness with age-worthy structure placing it among the world’s greatest wines.

Celebrating the estate’s decades of success on its 20^th anniversary, Clos Apalta’s Charles-Henri de Bournet declared “this is no time for complacency” – reflecting the estate’s never-ending drive for perfection, the outstanding 99 pt. 2019 Clos Apalta is equally appealing to those who already know it well and any lover of bold reds looking to explore the top tier of Chilean wines at an outstanding value.

99JS #11 Top 100

A generous array of ripe black and blue fruit with pink peppercorns, green olives, dried flowers, toffee and chocolate orange. It’s full-bodied with firm, creamy and velvety tannins. Long and polished. Lovely salted caramel and olives at the end. Keeps going. Unfolds on the finish. 70% carmenere, 18% merlot, 8% cabernet sauvignon and 4% petit verdot. Drink or hold.

99 points, James Suckling (Jun 2022)

#11 - James Suckling Top 100 of 2022

$119.98

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Chateau Laroque (750ml)

Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

97WI 96V 95JD 95JA

A blend of 99% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Laroque is deep garnet-purple in color. A little subdued to begin, offering subtle notes of crushed rocks and damp soil, it opens out to a core of ripe black and red plums and fresh blackberries, plus a fragrant waft of lilacs. The full-bodied palate is bursting with taut, muscular black fruits and amazing tension, framed by ripe, rounded tannins, and finishing with great length and depth.

97 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Mar 2023)

The 2020 Laroque is even better than the en primeur sample. Dark and enveloping, with tons of class, Laroque is a winner. Succulent dark plum, gravel, spice, menthol, licorice and pipe tobacco give the 2020 tons of nuance. Laroque is class personified. Winemaker David Suire is doing important work here.

96 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2023)

From an estate that has been on an incredible run of late, largely due to the talents of director David Suire, the 2020 Château Laroque shows the cooler, limestone-driven style of the terroir beautifully and has a clean, focused style in its darker (almost blue) berry fruits as well as chalky minerality, violets, spice, and floral nuances. Medium-bodied on the palate, this focused, straight, remarkably pure Saint-Emilion has terrific mid-palate depth and a great finish. It needs to be hidden in the cellar for a solid 4-5 years if possible and is going to have 30 years of longevity. If drinking any time soon, give it an hour in a decanter.

95+ points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2023)

There is such incredible balance to this wine, with deftly expressed black and blue fruits, espresso, liqourice and cocoa bean shavings, all delivered slowly but surely through the palate, held in by sculpted tannins, and wet stone texture. This is my biggest upscore from En Primeur - I noted at the time that it was extremely closed, but it is now showing its incredible potential, and is a great value wine. David Suire director, owners Beaumartin family, 61ha of vines.

95 points, Jane Anson (Feb 2023)

$37.88

Compare At: $44.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2016 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (750ml)

Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Among the highest scoring vintages over the last two decades from a legendary "Super Second" estate, these powerful and elegant selections from Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande boast rich, aromatic dark fruit and bright, mineral-driven acidity, some ready to enjoy now and all ageworthy blends rivalling the quality of neighboring First Growth estates at unbeatable pricing.

Described as “arguably the single hottest chateau on Bordeaux’s Left Bank right now” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, Pichon Lalande is located in Pauillac on the iconic Route des Chateaux overlooking the Gironde, its majestic turreted Chateau surrounded by the vines of First Growth Latour. Covering 89 hectares on deep gravel layered over clay and limestone, the Pichon Lalande vineyards are planted mainly to Cabernet Sauvignon with the oldest vines overlooking the river ranging up to 90 years of age, the remaining parcels located mostly in a single plot west of Latour. Describing it as “utterly brilliant, delivering juice, minerality, power, balance,” the thrilling 97 pt. 2009 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande offers “sheer enjoyment” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson and “will unquestionably evolve gracefully for another 20-25 years” according to Jeb Dunnuck while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls the 97 pt. 2009 Pichon Lalande “a seductive wine” with “beautifully integrated” tannins that’s simply “wonderful to taste” according to James Suckling. The 100 pt. 2010 Pichon Lalande is a “total showstopper” and a “modern day classic” according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, while James Suckling describes it as “rock-solid, with a classic Pauillac profile” and a lingering mineral-driven finish. The 95 pt. 2012 Pichon Lalande is “a wine of pure and total seduction” with “so much to offer” according to critic Galloni, while the 98 pt. 2015 Pichon Lalande is “as classy as they come” according to Jeb Dunnuck and “will continue to impress for two to three decades,” while impressing James Suckling with its “gorgeous texture” and “long and beautiful finish.” Described as “a perfect, legendary wine in the making” by Jeb Dunnuck, the 100 pt. 2016 Pichon Lalande earned a spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2019, called “a vivid, dramatically sweeping wine that will leave readers week at the knees” by critic Antonio Galloni who adds “don’t miss it.” Offering “silky tannins” that “feels like a Pauillac” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, the 96 pt. 2017 Pichon Lalande boasts “pure elegance and class” according to Jeb Dunnuck while the 99 tp. 2019 Pichon Lalande 99 pts. is “one of the wines of the vintage” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley, described by Vinous critic Neal Martin as “an absolute showstopper.”

Garnering unanimous critical acclaim typically reserved for the First Growths at a fraction of the price, these exceptional vintages from Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande blends are affordable luxuries not to be missed by Bordeaux lovers and collectors, whether selecting a few favorites to enjoy now or stocking the cellar and savoring them for years to come.

100WA 100JD 100V 99WI 98JS

One of the greatest wines that this estate has produced in the modern era, the 2016 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a brilliant classic that no Bordeaux lover is going to want to do without. Mingling aromas of cassis and plums with notions of licorice, sweet tobacco leaf, rich soil tones, licorice, cigar smoke and violets, it's full-bodied, seamless and complete, with huge concentration, bright acids and a long, penetrating finish. Standing out for its unerring precision, impeccable balance and ineffable sense of completeness, it should prove almost immortal.

100 points, William Kelley, Wine Advocate (Aug 2022)

Coming from the genius winemaking talent of Nicolas Glumineau, the 2016 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande matches the 1982 and is a perfect, legendary wine in the making. A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc brought up in 60% new oak, it's not the most powerful Left Bank but offers perfect balance and thrilling intensity as well as heavenly aromatics of crème de cassis, leafy herbs, jammy blackberries, tobacco leaf, and freshly sharpened lead pencils as well as more violets and minerality with time in the glass. Possessing a deep, full-bodied, singular character, the purity of fruit that's the hallmark of the vintage, building tannins, and a sense of class and elegance that's hard to describe, it's a 50-year-wine. While this cuvée has included a fair chunk of Merlot in the past that gave it more upfront appeal, it's important for readers to know it's much more Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated today, and while it is slightly more approachable than some of its neighbors, it shuts down rather quickly with time in the glass. (I followed this wine for multiple days.) I suspect a solid decade of cellaring is warranted.

100 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Feb 2019)

The 2016 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is every bit as regal as it has always been. Towering and spectacularly rich in the glass, the 2016 captures every ounce of potential is showed from barrel. The 2016 is a vivid, dramatically sweeping wine that will leave readers weak at the knees. Beams of tannin give the 2016 soaring intensity that is matched by a host of aromas and flavors that open up in the glass. Blackberry jam, graphite, spice, menthol, licorice, pencil shavings and spice are all finely sketched in a bold, savory Pauillac that hits all the right notes. The 2016 Pichon Comtesse has been riveting on each of the four occasions I have tasted it from barrel thus far, making it easily one of the wines of the vintage. Nicolas Glumineu and his team turned out an epic Pichon Comtesse in 2016. Don't miss it!

100 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Jan 2019)

The 2016 Pichon Comtesse has a deep garnet color. It needs a lot of coaxing and swirling to shake loose notes of crushed black and red currants, black raspberries, and mulberries, plus wafts of lilacs, forest floor, and pencil lead, with a hint of smoked meats. Medium-bodied, the palate is packed with bright, perfumed black fruits, supported by plush, super-ripe tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long and fragrant. Gorgeous!

99 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Dec 2022)

Glorious aromas of blackcurrants, blackberries and flowers, from violets to roses. Iron and rust undertones. Full-bodied, dense and very layered with loads of richness. It goes on for minutes. Reminds me of the 1986. Best in decades? Take a first look at it in 2025.

98 points, James Suckling (Dec 2019)

$299.88

Compare At: $329.99

This item is a pre-order estimated to arrive 7/11/2024. 23 bottles available.

1

2021 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml)

Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries.

96WS 94V 94JS

Elegant, stunning and approachable, with seductive aromatics of smoked incense and red tea, plus floral high notes, followed by a well of cassis, licorice and red currant coated in graphite. Dusty in feel, with fine-grained tannins bringing structure and textural complexity. An iron element lingers on the very long finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2035.

96 points, Kristen Bieler, Wine Spectator (Nov 2023)

The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is made with slightly more Grenache and less Syrah than previous vintages. Intermixing aromas of red and black fruits, dried herbs, white pepper and crushed rocks, this 2021 shows slightly less intensity than either the 2020 or 2019. Full-bodied, elegant and framed by smooth tannins, it is well-balanced by fresh acidity and closes with a savory finish.

94 points, Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous (Jun 2023)

A perfumed nose of cherries, dark berries, baking spices, violets, licorice and some incense as well. It's medium-bodied with finely grained tannins. It's well-balanced with finesse and harmony. Crunchy and fresh with a velvety texture and great drinkability. Juicy, precise finish with excellent length. Drink or hold.

94 points, James Suckling (May 2023)

$84.98

Compare At: $99.99

This item is a pre-order estimated to arrive 7/11/2024. 60+ bottles available.

1

2018 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (750ml)

Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

Among the highest scoring vintages over the last two decades from a legendary "Super Second" estate, these powerful and elegant selections from Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande boast rich, aromatic dark fruit and bright, mineral-driven acidity, some ready to enjoy now and all ageworthy blends rivalling the quality of neighboring First Growth estates at unbeatable pricing.

Described as “arguably the single hottest chateau on Bordeaux’s Left Bank right now” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, Pichon Lalande is located in Pauillac on the iconic Route des Chateaux overlooking the Gironde, its majestic turreted Chateau surrounded by the vines of First Growth Latour. Covering 89 hectares on deep gravel layered over clay and limestone, the Pichon Lalande vineyards are planted mainly to Cabernet Sauvignon with the oldest vines overlooking the river ranging up to 90 years of age, the remaining parcels located mostly in a single plot west of Latour. Describing it as “utterly brilliant, delivering juice, minerality, power, balance,” the thrilling 97 pt. 2009 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande offers “sheer enjoyment” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson and “will unquestionably evolve gracefully for another 20-25 years” according to Jeb Dunnuck while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls the 97 pt. 2009 Pichon Lalande “a seductive wine” with “beautifully integrated” tannins that’s simply “wonderful to taste” according to James Suckling. The 100 pt. 2010 Pichon Lalande is a “total showstopper” and a “modern day classic” according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, while James Suckling describes it as “rock-solid, with a classic Pauillac profile” and a lingering mineral-driven finish. The 95 pt. 2012 Pichon Lalande is “a wine of pure and total seduction” with “so much to offer” according to critic Galloni, while the 98 pt. 2015 Pichon Lalande is “as classy as they come” according to Jeb Dunnuck and “will continue to impress for two to three decades,” while impressing James Suckling with its “gorgeous texture” and “long and beautiful finish.” Described as “a perfect, legendary wine in the making” by Jeb Dunnuck, the 100 pt. 2016 Pichon Lalande earned a spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2019, called “a vivid, dramatically sweeping wine that will leave readers week at the knees” by critic Antonio Galloni who adds “don’t miss it.” Offering “silky tannins” that “feels like a Pauillac” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, the 96 pt. 2017 Pichon Lalande boasts “pure elegance and class” according to Jeb Dunnuck while the 99 tp. 2019 Pichon Lalande 99 pts. is “one of the wines of the vintage” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley, described by Vinous critic Neal Martin as “an absolute showstopper.”

Garnering unanimous critical acclaim typically reserved for the First Growths at a fraction of the price, these exceptional vintages from Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande blends are affordable luxuries not to be missed by Bordeaux lovers and collectors, whether selecting a few favorites to enjoy now or stocking the cellar and savoring them for years to come.

98JD 98WS #2 Top 100 98WE 97WA 97V 97JS

The 2018 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse De Lalande is a monster of a wine with an almost Château Latour-like stature and structure, offering deep, backward, slightly reductive notes of blackcurrants, crushed stone, scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, and tobacco leaf. Based largely on Cabernet Sauvignon mixed with 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, it's full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful on the palate, with masses of tannins, beautiful mid-palate density, and a great finish. As I've commented previously, the up-front, sexy style of the past (due to the larger Merlot content, I believe) has been replaced by a more regal, at times austere profile. Nevertheless, it's still its own wine and very Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in style. This 2018 is going to need 5-7 years of bottle age and will evolve for 40+ years.

98+ points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2021)

Offers a deep well of dark currant, blackberry paste and plum preserves fruit that needs time to unwind fully, as it’s shrouded in warm earth, tobacco, singed cedar, sweet bay leaf and savory notes. A ramrod of graphite adds to the strident, structured feel. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2030 through 2050.

98 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Mar 2021)

#2 - Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2021

This famous estate at the southern end of Pauillac has produced a powerful wine. Packed blackberry fruits, laced with acidity, are just starting out on a long journey along with the tannins. The wine’s elegance is beautifully preserved within the structure. With considerable potential, the wine should not be drunk before 2027.

98 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (May 2021)

The 2018 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot with a pH of 3.85, an IPT (total polyphenol index) of 87 and 14% alcohol. The grand vin represents 50% of the crop this year. Deep garnet-purple colored, it charges out of the gate with bold scents of baked plums, ripe blackcurrants and wild blueberries, followed by hints of cedar chest, pencil lead, bouquet garni and charcuterie, plus a waft of lilacs. The medium-bodied palate is beautifully crafted with its seamless freshness and firm, grainy tannins supporting the compelling, finely knit black fruits and savory nuances, finishing on a lingering fragrant-earth note. This will need a good 5 years to come around and should easily cellar for another 30 years or more.

97+ points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (Mar 2021)

The 2018 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande dazzles from the very first taste. A heady concoction of inky dark fruit, graphite, new leather, licorice, lavender, spice and grilled herbs soars out of the glass. The 2018 is rich and expansive yet retains a super-classic vertical feel. Plush, silky tannins add to its immeasurable pedigree. I would cellar the 2018 for a decade or so, if patience permits. It's a stellar wine in the making.

97+ points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Mar 2021)

Aromas of blackberry, dried blueberry, gravel, mocha and cigar box. Light fresh-herb undertone. It’s full-bodied with firm, ultra fine tannins and fresh acidity. Focused and minerally with a long finish. Great length. Very tight and restrained at the moment. Wait until at least 2026 to take a look.

97 points, James Suckling (Mar 2021)

$259.88

Compare At: $279.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Domaine de Chevalier L'Esprit de Chevalier Rouge (750ml)

Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

95JS

The 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.

95 points, James Suckling (May 2023)

$26.88

Compare At: $34.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel (750ml)

Zinfandel from Sonoma, California

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Described by Decanter as a vintage of “powerfully-constructed, brambly, spicy reds,” these high scoring 2021 Zinfandels are crafted by California’s top Zinfandel experts, sourced from a range of terroirs that include some of the region's oldest vines and offering exceptional value for Zin lovers whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case.

From the estate called “a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 95 pt. 2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel includes old vine Zinfandel ranging from 90 to over 120 years, yielding a “well balanced, elegant wine” with “light, toasty oak accents” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon. Bedrock winemaker Morgan Twain-Peterson produced the 94 pt. 2020 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine from vines averaging around 80 years old, delivering ripe spiced fruit “with good structure, fresh acidity and fine tannins” according to Jeb Dunnuck who calls it “an outstanding value” ready to enjoy over the next few years. Described as a fresher, approachable expression of the grape, the 93 pt. 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel is "a serious Zinfandel" boasting ripe red fruit with "decadent baking spice notes” and “structured grippy tannins" according to Decanter’s Jonathan Cristaldi, while the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish calls Seghesio Family Vineyards “one of California's elite Zinfandel specialists,” the 94 pt. 2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel sourced from gnarly head-pruned vines averaging 75 years of age with pronounced notes of bramble and peppery spice. Produced in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley with its oldest vines dating back to 1910, the bright and juicy 93 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel is “an absolute winner” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous that's “packed with varietal character," boasting the structure to evolve over the next few years. Named for founder Lee Martinelli’s grandparents who first planted grapes in the Russian River in the 1880’s, the rich and elegant 97 pt. 2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard offers alluring aromatic fruit layered with spice and fresh juicy acidity, while the richly textured 95 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel 1910 Block from the estate's oldest block of vines is “a gutsy version, built in an old-school style” according to the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish, both powerfully built Zins that will evolve for another decade.

From a cooler, uneventful growing season that “resulted in especially elegant, expressive wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, these highly rated, site-expressive 2021 Zinfandels offer an appealing range of styles and age-ability from diverse vineyards that include some of the region’s top old vine sites, all value priced and promising Zin fans who stock up some delicious drinking ahead.

95V 94WE 93WS

The 2021 Zinfandel Pagani Ranch is a wine of tremendous stature. Vertical and composed in bearing, the 2021 has a ton to offer, but is also a bit reserved today. Time in the glass brings out a mesmerizing range of red/purplish fruit, spice, cedar, new leather, tobacco, mocha and dried flowers. Pagani Ranch remains a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends. This is a fine rendition.

95 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Nov 2023)

Vivid, focused raspberries and red currants light up the aroma of this well-balanced, elegant wine before cooked strawberries and red plums fill the palate. Light toasty, oaky accents of vanilla and chocolate lend a bit of extra interest. Best through 2033.

94 points, Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast (Dec 2023)

Potent at the core, yet retains a sense of refinement, with multilayered flavors of black cherry, fruitcake spices and licorice that build richness and structure toward fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2031. 7,300 cases made.

93 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (Jan 2024)

$39.98

Compare At: $44.99

49 bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml)

Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries.

98D 97WS

"A very Clos des Papes vintage," says Vincent Avril, and I know what he means - a vintage that naturally delivers the kind of fresh, elegant wines that this estate is famous for. A tasting of several foudres point to a wine with natural, easy balance. The Mourvèdre is excellent here this year, and adds great depth to the fresh and delightful Grenache that has notes of black tea, black cherry and iron. Elegant and very fine.

98 points, Matt Walls, Decanter (Sep 2021)

Beguiling, with a plume of black tea and incense leading off, followed by warmed black cherry reduction, cassis, melted black licorice, warm earth and singed tobacco and garrigue accents. Offers breadth and depth with a seamless feel, capped by a subtle mineral edge that lingers lengthily amid the beautiful fruit. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2024 through 2040.

97 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Nov 2022)

2020 Chateau De La Dauphine (750ml)

Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

93JD 93V 93WE 93JS 93WI

The best I've tasted from this Château, the 2020 Château La Dauphine offers a terrific array of red and blue fruits as well as some classic Right Bank chalky minerality, medium to full-bodied richness, a pure, concentrated profile, and some background floral nuances. Drink this smoking good Fronsac over the coming decade.

93 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2023)

The 2020 La Dauphine is positively stellar. Soft and voluptuous, with fabulous depth, the 2020 offers up a heady mélange of blackberry jam, chocolate, licorice, spice, new leather and incense. This extroverted, inviting Fronsac is just gorgeous.

93 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2023)

The 85% Merlot in this superrich wine is what has pushed up the alcohol. It does give a powerful, juicy character to the black-currant fruits. Against the wood and tannins, this wine has density and a full ripe character. Worth aging, this fine, dense wine will be ready from 2026. Organic.

93 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Dec 2022)

This offers lots of spices, chocolate and earthy notes to its dark-fruited character. Medium to full body. Ripe, velvety tannins and round texture. Shows depth and intensity with a compact structure and lingering finish. 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc. From organically grown grapes. Try after 2024.

93 points, James Suckling (May 2023)

The 2020 de la Dauphine is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it comes barreling out with energetic blackberry pie and stewed plums notes followed by hints of potpourri, incense, and mossy tree bark. The full-bodied palate delivers impactful black fruit preserves layers with soft, rounded tannins and plenty of brightness on the finish.

93 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Mar 2023)

$22.88

Compare At: $25.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Chateau Grand-Puy-Ducasse (750ml)

Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

96JS 95JD 94V 94WS

A transparent and clear young Pauillac with blackcurrant, mushroom, chocolate, and wet earth. Full-bodied, layered and flavorful with fine, velvety tannins. Plenty of graphite and blue fruit at the end. Drink after 2027.

96 points, James Suckling (May 2023)

The 2020 Château Grand-Puy Ducasse is a brilliant, powerful, age-worthy Pauillac that will reward bottle age. Blackcurrants, tobacco, cedar pencil, and chocolate are just some of its nuances, and this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a dense, mouth-filling texture, plenty of ripe tannins, and outstanding length. It's not the most elegant Pauillac out there, but it has quintessential aromatics, structure, and density, and is beautifully done, as well as incredibly satisfying. It will probably take a decade of bottle age to hit maturity, and it should have 30-40 years of overall longevity. Tasted three times.

95 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2023)

The 2020 Grand Puy Ducasse is elegant, polished and sophisticated, just as it was en primeur. Dark cherry, mocha, licorice and crushed rose petals are some of the many notes that open up. Medium in body, with terrific energy and tons of class, Grand Puy Ducasse is very pretty and especially refined in 2020.

94 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2023)

Flows wonderfully from the start, with an already accessible feel to the mix of cassis and dark blackberry notes inlaid with singed alder, warm paving stone, tobacco leaf and graphite accents that then carry the finish. In the end, there's no rush at all here. A pretty gorgeous Pauillac. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2025 through 2038. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 10,733 cases made, 338 cases imported.

94 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Mar 2023)

$39.88

Compare At: $44.99

60+ bottles in stock and ready to ship.

1

2020 Chateau Moulin Haut-Laroque (750ml)

Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

93WI 92WS 92JS 91JD 91V

Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Moulin Haut-Laroque powers out with bold boysenberry preserves and baked blackberries notes, followed by hints of crushed rocks, bay leaves, and anise. The medium to full-bodied palate is nicely balanced, with ripe, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness supporting the generous fruit, finishing earthy.

93 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (May 2023)

Solidly built, with dark tobacco and cast iron notes framing a core of dark plum and black currant fruit. Shows ample drive and toast on the finish, but this has good tension from underlying chalky minerality. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Best from 2024 through 2033. 4,000 cases made, 500 cases imported.

92 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Mar 2023)

This has aromas of mulberries, blackberries, hazelnuts and violets. Full-bodied, with firm and compact tannins. Plenty of weight and depth. I like the blue fruit and floral character. 65% merlot, 20% cabernet franc, 10% cabernet sauvignon and 5% malbec. Drink from 2026.

92 points, James Suckling (May 2023)

Lots darker, almost blue fruits as well as classic cedary spice, tobacco, and liquid violet notes emerge from the 2020 Château Moulin Haut-Laroque, a medium to full-bodied, ripe, round, seamless Fronsac offering tons of character. It plays in the pure, elegant, focused style of the vintage, has ripe tannins, and is going to deliver the goods over the coming decade.

91 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2023)

The 2020 Moulin Haut-Laroque has come together beautifully. It offers up an exciting mix of super-ripe dark cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather, licorice and spice, all in a racy, unctuous style that offers tons of immediacy.

91 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2023)

2022 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml)

Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries.

99WA 99JD

The 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape is a richly concentrated effort, dark-fruited and loaded with black cherries and blackberries, yet it's not without nuance, as it includes hints of asphalt, truffle and dried spices. Full-bodied (15.4% alcohol), deep and velvety, with a long, softly dusty finish, it looks to be a real beauty, capable of aging up to two decades.

97-99 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Sep 2023)

The 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape reminds me of the 2007 with its incredible sexiness and seamless, elegant texture. Black cherry liqueur, Provençal herbs, flowers, and licorice are just some of its nuances, and it's full-bodied, with a layered mouthfeel, gorgeous tannins, and a great, great finish. Tasted from multiple foudre, this is unquestionably up with the finest in the vintage, and as I’ve written in the past, it’s almost impossible to have too much Clos des Papes in the cellar!

97-99 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Oct 2023)

$94.98

Compare At: $109.99

This item is a pre-order estimated to arrive 7/11/2024. 60+ bottles available.

1

2015 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (750ml)

Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Among the highest scoring vintages over the last two decades from a legendary "Super Second" estate, these powerful and elegant selections from Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande boast rich, aromatic dark fruit and bright, mineral-driven acidity, some ready to enjoy now and all ageworthy blends rivalling the quality of neighboring First Growth estates at unbeatable pricing.

Described as “arguably the single hottest chateau on Bordeaux’s Left Bank right now” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, Pichon Lalande is located in Pauillac on the iconic Route des Chateaux overlooking the Gironde, its majestic turreted Chateau surrounded by the vines of First Growth Latour. Covering 89 hectares on deep gravel layered over clay and limestone, the Pichon Lalande vineyards are planted mainly to Cabernet Sauvignon with the oldest vines overlooking the river ranging up to 90 years of age, the remaining parcels located mostly in a single plot west of Latour. Describing it as “utterly brilliant, delivering juice, minerality, power, balance,” the thrilling 97 pt. 2009 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande offers “sheer enjoyment” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson and “will unquestionably evolve gracefully for another 20-25 years” according to Jeb Dunnuck while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls the 97 pt. 2009 Pichon Lalande “a seductive wine” with “beautifully integrated” tannins that’s simply “wonderful to taste” according to James Suckling. The 100 pt. 2010 Pichon Lalande is a “total showstopper” and a “modern day classic” according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, while James Suckling describes it as “rock-solid, with a classic Pauillac profile” and a lingering mineral-driven finish. The 95 pt. 2012 Pichon Lalande is “a wine of pure and total seduction” with “so much to offer” according to critic Galloni, while the 98 pt. 2015 Pichon Lalande is “as classy as they come” according to Jeb Dunnuck and “will continue to impress for two to three decades,” while impressing James Suckling with its “gorgeous texture” and “long and beautiful finish.” Described as “a perfect, legendary wine in the making” by Jeb Dunnuck, the 100 pt. 2016 Pichon Lalande earned a spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2019, called “a vivid, dramatically sweeping wine that will leave readers week at the knees” by critic Antonio Galloni who adds “don’t miss it.” Offering “silky tannins” that “feels like a Pauillac” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, the 96 pt. 2017 Pichon Lalande boasts “pure elegance and class” according to Jeb Dunnuck while the 99 tp. 2019 Pichon Lalande 99 pts. is “one of the wines of the vintage” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley, described by Vinous critic Neal Martin as “an absolute showstopper.”

Garnering unanimous critical acclaim typically reserved for the First Growths at a fraction of the price, these exceptional vintages from Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande blends are affordable luxuries not to be missed by Bordeaux lovers and collectors, whether selecting a few favorites to enjoy now or stocking the cellar and savoring them for years to come.

98V 98WI 97JD 97JS 96WA 96WE

The 2015 Pichon Comtesse is a towering wine, as it has always been. Rich, sumptuous and totally hedonistic, the 2015 melds together intense fruit with structure. Far from an easygoing wine, the 2015 is going to need a number of years and will then drink well for several decades. Grilled herbs, smoke, new leather and licorice are some of the many notes that are layered into the dark-fleshed fruit for complexity. As good as the 2015 is today, it also has room to grow. Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau has done a tremendous job with the 2015s at Pichon Comtesse. The blend is 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, aged 18 months in oak, 55% new.

98+ points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2018)

The 2015 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is medium to deep garnet colored. It is seriously shut down on the nose at this stage, needing a lot of coaxing to reveal notes of crushed blackcurrants, Morello cherries, juicy black plums, and forest floor, plus hints of lilacs and crushed rocks. The medium-bodied palate is so tightly wound still, featuring layer upon layer of black fruits and mineral accents, supported by firm, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and achingly fragrant.

98+ points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Nov 2022)

I tasted the 2015 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande on three separate occasions rating it 97 twice and 98 once. Checking in as a final blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this is a nuanced style of wine that grows on you with time in the glass, and the larger Merlot component always gives it a more supple, seductive texture. Crème de cassis, black raspberries, spring flowers, leafy herbs and lead pencil notes all flow to a full-bodied, ultra-pure, seamless beauty that builds on the palate, has fine tannin and a great, great finish. As classy as they come, it will continue to impress for two to three decades.

97 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Nov 2017)

This shows spices, pepper, blueberries and blackcurrants on the nose. Full body, very polished tannins and a long and beautiful finish. Shows such gorgeous texture. Precise and transparent. Try in 2022.

97 points, James Suckling (Dec 2018)

A blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot aged for 18 months in barrels, 60% new, the 2015 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande displays a medium to deep garnet-purple color and is elegantly fruited with crushed red currants, black raspberries and cassis with touches of lavender, rose hips, tilled soil, fungi and charcuterie. Medium-bodied, finely crafted, remarkably pure and beautifully poised, it has a firm frame of very fine-grained tannins and oodles of freshness, finishing on a lingering mineral note.

96 points, Wine Advocate (Feb 2018)

This is the new taste for this estate: richly endowed while remaining elegant and suave. Certainly, there is great concentration here as well as rich black fruits. But they are given a sense of style and poise that will remain with this wine as it ages. Drink from 2026.

96 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Feb 2018)

2017 Clos des Papes Rouge (1.5L)

Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More

The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries.

98JD 96WA

One of the strongest wines in the vintage is the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape from Vincent Avril. This beauty has everything you could ask for. As with the 2018, the blend is heavily shifted toward Mourvèdre, and it offers a mammoth bouquet of black cherries, graphite, cured meats, Asian spices, and assorted garrigue-like nuances. Deep, full-bodied, and concentrated, it stays straight and focused on the palate (whereas the 2016 is more expansive and voluptuous), with a stacked mid-palate, ripe, silky tannins, and fabulous length. You’re going to want bottles of this in the cellar, and comparing the 2007, 2010, 2016, and 2017 over the coming two decades is going to be a treat.

98+ points, Jeb Dunnuck (Aug 2019)

As predicted last year by Paul-Vincent Avril, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre, about 10% Syrah and the rest other permitted varieties. It boasts a cool, fresh nose of strawberries, cola and tree bark, yet it's full-bodied and tannic on the palate. Dense and chewy, albeit with a mouthwatering sense of freshness, this will need a few years to relax and unwind, but it looks very promising.

96 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Issue # 244 - Aug 2019)

2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel Estate (750ml)

Zinfandel from Russian River, California

B-21 Top Recommendation
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Described by Decanter as a vintage of “powerfully-constructed, brambly, spicy reds,” these high scoring 2021 Zinfandels are crafted by California’s top Zinfandel experts, sourced from a range of terroirs that include some of the region's oldest vines and offering exceptional value for Zin lovers whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case.

From the estate called “a beacon for Sonoma County Zinfandel-based field blends” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 95 pt. 2021 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel includes old vine Zinfandel ranging from 90 to over 120 years, yielding a “well balanced, elegant wine” with “light, toasty oak accents” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon. Bedrock winemaker Morgan Twain-Peterson produced the 94 pt. 2020 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine from vines averaging around 80 years old, delivering ripe spiced fruit “with good structure, fresh acidity and fine tannins” according to Jeb Dunnuck who calls it “an outstanding value” ready to enjoy over the next few years. Described as a fresher, approachable expression of the grape, the 93 pt. 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel is "a serious Zinfandel" boasting ripe red fruit with "decadent baking spice notes” and “structured grippy tannins" according to Decanter’s Jonathan Cristaldi, while the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish calls Seghesio Family Vineyards “one of California's elite Zinfandel specialists,” the 94 pt. 2021 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel sourced from gnarly head-pruned vines averaging 75 years of age with pronounced notes of bramble and peppery spice. Produced in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley with its oldest vines dating back to 1910, the bright and juicy 93 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel is “an absolute winner” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous that's “packed with varietal character," boasting the structure to evolve over the next few years. Named for founder Lee Martinelli’s grandparents who first planted grapes in the Russian River in the 1880’s, the rich and elegant 97 pt. 2021 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard offers alluring aromatic fruit layered with spice and fresh juicy acidity, while the richly textured 95 pt. 2021 Limerick Lane Zinfandel 1910 Block from the estate's oldest block of vines is “a gutsy version, built in an old-school style” according to the Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish, both powerfully built Zins that will evolve for another decade.

From a cooler, uneventful growing season that “resulted in especially elegant, expressive wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, these highly rated, site-expressive 2021 Zinfandels offer an appealing range of styles and age-ability from diverse vineyards that include some of the region’s top old vine sites, all value priced and promising Zin fans who stock up some delicious drinking ahead.

93JD 93WS 91V

A bright saturated ruby, the 2021 Zinfandel Russian River Valley is lifted with fresh aromas of candied peach, grenadine, and pressed red flowers. Medium to full-bodied, with great energy in its notes of fresh mixed berries, gravelly earth, and mocha, it’s an elegant wine with fine tannins, a stony texture, and a good, clean finish. It’s a fantastic entry to the wines from Limerick Lane to drink over the next several years.

93 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (Jul 2023)

Fragrant and vibrantly structured, with expressive raspberry, green peppercorn and roasted sage flavors that build richness and tension toward briary tannins. Drink now through 2031. 1,435 cases made.

93 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (2023)

The 2021 Zinfandel (Russian River Valley) is an absolute delight. Bright and intensely floral, the 2021 is packed with varietal character. Crushed red berry fruit, white flowers and mint all race out of the glass in this refreshing, juicy Zinfandel from Limerick Lane. This is an absolute winner.

91 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Jan 2023)

$39.98

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42 bottles in stock and ready to ship.

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2020 Chateau La Gaffeliere (750ml)

Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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A newly arriving container filled with top rated Bordeaux, these 2020 Bordeaux selections boast outstanding quality across the board at unparalleled value pricing, from a vintage of “brilliant wines” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and described by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni as “a year brimming with phenomenal wines at all levels, from the big names down to bottles the average consumer can still afford to purchase by the case.”

Although there were no significant heat spikes throughout the growing season, 2020 was a warm growing season overall in Bordeaux, with generally well-timed rain in the Spring followed by extremely dry summer weather that prevented the development of mildew. While summer drought conditions led to smaller berries and yields for Cabernet Sauvignon, mid-August rains on the Right Bank plumped up Merlot and cool September evenings during the last phase of ripening preserved freshness in the wines. Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson noted that “clay-limestone soils did brilliantly against the heat of the summer, favoring the St Emilion plateau” with an impressive array of wines also coming from the gravel soils of Pauillac and St Julien. Describing the white wines of 2020, Anson declares there are “plenty of delicious bottles,” the earlier harvest delivering “exotic fruit flavors with grip and personality.” Describing 2020 as “an incredibly exciting vintage for Bordeaux,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous finds remarkable quality in each of the Left Bank appellations, while calling Saint Emilion “one of the sweet spots of 2020” and noting “readers will find a bevy of compelling wines from satellite appellations” including Haut-Medoc and Fronsac. Called “an incredible classic vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck producing “a solid swath of cellar-worthy buys in the $65-and-under range” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth, critic James Suckling summed up the vintage well, declaring “if you buy or drink a bottle of top-rated 2020 Bordeaux, you are going to be more than happy. In fact, you most likely will be elated” and noting “many of the wines give pleasure for a young wine but the best will age for decades ahead.”

Summing it up as “a great modern-day Bordeaux vintage,” Antonio Galloni notes the wines are “less extracted, more vibrant and, frankly, much more fun to drink,” this well priced, wide-ranging offer a terrific opportunity to stock up on an array of age worthy Bordeaux from an exceptional 2020 vintage that according to Neal Martin of Vinous “delivers the goods.”

98V 98WI 97JS 96WE

The 2020 La Gaffelière is superb. Rich, dense and explosive. Black cherry, gravel, licorice, grilled herbs and menthol race out of the glass. Deep, pliant and explosive, the 2020 is magnificent. At this stage, the 2020 is an infant, but that won't be a problem in a few years. This vivid, statuesque Saint-Émilion is nothing short of thrilling.

98 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2023)

The 2020 La Gaffeliere is composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it soars out of the glass with expressive notes of redcurrant jelly, plum preserves, and kirsch, plus nuances of dark chocolate, violets, pencil lead, and fragrant soil with a waft of crushed rocks. The medium-bodied palate is so tightly wound, featuring very fine layers of red and black fruit intertwined with floral and mineral nuances, supported by highly pixilated, super-ripe tannins and amazing tension, finishing very long and with the energy of an atomic bomb. This is stunning!

98 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Jun 2023)

Deep and intense notes of plums and blackberries with dark chocolate, toasted spices, walnut, crushed graphite and wet stones. Full-bodied with layers of ripe, velvety tannins that flow in a firm stream throughout the palate. Very structured. Delicious chocolate-wrapped black and blue fruit with spiced character and a really long finish. 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc. Drink from 2028.

97 points, James Suckling (May 2023)

This wine's ripe tannins and fine perfumes come from the 40% Cabernet Franc in the blend. The structure is powerful even if masked by the generous black fruits. The wine has great potential. Drink from 2027.

96 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Apr 2023)

$74.88

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2020 Clos Apalta (750ml)

Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile

B-21 Top Recommendation
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“There’s no doubt that Clos Apalta is one of the world’s greatest red wines.”

James Suckling

The powerful 99pt 2019 Clos Apalta from Chile’s Casa Lapostolle is a stunner, an elegantly crafted Bordeaux-style blend offering layers of dark plush fruit with rippling, juicy tannins on a lengthy finish, a perennial B-21 favorite that’s guaranteed to sell out quickly at our best on the market pricing.

Arriving in the Colchagua Valley in 1994, French Grand Marnier heiress Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet were inspired by the exceptional Chilean terroir to craft a world class wine, tapping into the winemaking expertise of renowned French oenologist Michel Rolland to lead the restoration of the century old vineyards and construction of a new state of the art winery. Releasing this 22^nd vintage now under the direction of their son Charles-Henri de Bournet, Clos Apalta is the only South American wine ever to garner the coveted #1 spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100, named an astounding five times to the list and regularly earning “classic” ratings of 95 pts. and above. Sourced mainly from two blocks of old vines planted in a myriad of granitic soils in the 1920’s, the biodynamically farmed Clos Apalta vineyards are in the shadow of the towering coastal Cordillera Mountains, protected from the searing sun while enjoying a cool maritime mist most mornings that creates optimal conditions for ripening Carmenere while maintaining its freshness and acidity. Blending mostly Carmenere with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and a little Petit Verdot, winemaker Jacques Begarie aged the 99 pt. 2019 Clos Apalta for 24 months in 90% new French oak barrels before bottling without filtering or fining, yielding lush complexity and hedonistic richness with age-worthy structure placing it among the world’s greatest wines.

Celebrating the estate’s decades of success on its 20^th anniversary, Clos Apalta’s Charles-Henri de Bournet declared “this is no time for complacency” – reflecting the estate’s never-ending drive for perfection, the outstanding 99 pt. 2019 Clos Apalta is equally appealing to those who already know it well and any lover of bold reds looking to explore the top tier of Chilean wines at an outstanding value.

99JS #42 Top 100

A really refined, expressive and layered Clos Apalta with fine olives, incense, cigar box, cocoa powder, Spanish chocolate, pencil shavings, graphite and fine spices. Juicy, bright and full-bodied palate with a fine saline, savory twist. Very long and juicy. 64% carmenere, 19% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot and 2% petit verdot. Real finesse from 2020. Drink from 2024.

99 points, Zekun Shuai, James Suckling (Apr 2023)

#42 - James Suckling Top 100 of 2023

$117.98

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This item is a pre-order estimated to arrive 5/16/2024. 60+ bottles available.

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2020 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml)

Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

B-21 Top Recommendation
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The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries.

98D 97WS

"A very Clos des Papes vintage," says Vincent Avril, and I know what he means - a vintage that naturally delivers the kind of fresh, elegant wines that this estate is famous for. A tasting of several foudres point to a wine with natural, easy balance. The Mourvèdre is excellent here this year, and adds great depth to the fresh and delightful Grenache that has notes of black tea, black cherry and iron. Elegant and very fine.

98 points, Matt Walls, Decanter (Sep 2021)

Beguiling, with a plume of black tea and incense leading off, followed by warmed black cherry reduction, cassis, melted black licorice, warm earth and singed tobacco and garrigue accents. Offers breadth and depth with a seamless feel, capped by a subtle mineral edge that lingers lengthily amid the beautiful fruit. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2024 through 2040.

97 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Nov 2022)

$89.98

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