Top Quality Store
| 2022 Conundrum Red (750ml) | ||
| From Rutherford, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As the first to introduce Caymus to the state of Florida back in 1981, our decades-long relationship with the Wagner Family of Wines presented a terrific opportunity to feature a selection of their outstanding offerings at rock bottom pricing, from the entry-level Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 7 to the 2022 Caymus California Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Chardonny, Pinot Noir, and the easy-drinking Conundrum blends. Here's what's in stock and ready to enjoy. Boasting dark fruit hinting of vanilla and soft tannins, the Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 7 blends fruit from a variety of vineyard sites and vintages, its name referring to the "Bonanza" of unheralded vineyards throughout the state (and not the TV Western for those of us over a certain age…). Crafted for everyday enjoyment and inspired by Chuck Wagner's father and his "no rules" approach to blending wines, the Conundrum White is a refreshing proprietary blend of a variety of white grapes including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier that boasts lush tropical fruit and crisp acidity, while the Conundrum Red offers rich, dark fruit from its Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, rounded out by pleasant, layered tannins. Sourced from vineyards in Santa Barbara to the south up to Solano County in the north, the Sea Sun Chardonnay balances bright, creamy fruit woven with harmonious toasted oak, while the Sea Sun Pinot Noir offers lush, ripe red fruit hinting of forest and spice with a velvet, palate-pleasing texture, its grapes coming from cool climate vineyards along the Pacific. A comprehensive selection of top-quality wines crafted by the iconic Wagner Family of Wines, this is a not to be missed offer for Caymus fans to mix a case or two, stock up on some everyday wine or select a few favorites – with the legacy of the legendary Caymus behind each label at best on the market pricing, every choice is a win-win. | ||
|
||
| 2015 Xavier Vignon Vin de France Arcane XV Le Diable (750ml) | ||
| Mourvedre from Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Regular readers of these pages are no stranger to the stunning wines being produced by Xavier Vignon, who has established a flawless reputation working with such luminaries as Marcoux, Grand Veneur, Raymond Usseglio, and others. Through these relationships, he has gained access to incredibly pristine parcels of very old-vine plantings across the valley, where he works with centenarian vines of Grenache and Syrah as well as 75- to 85-year-old plots of multiple other varieties. As always, we've sourced this latest set directly from Vignon's cellars, so fans of the estate can stock up on any or all of these critically acclaimed favorites for under $25 each. Led by a pair of "sensational" 2015s that each notched 94 points from Wine Advocate, this line-up reflects Vignon's track record as one of the great iconoclastic talents in the Rhône today. The 2015 Le Soleil is "Maybe the best Côte du Rhône Villages I've ever tasted," according to Advocate's Joe Czerwinski, while the 2015 Le Diable is a "sensational" single-vineyard expression of Mourvèdre. The NV Arcane bottlings are every bit as outstanding, highlighted by the 95-point L' Etoile, called "a beautiful, full-bodied, elegant wine that might just be one of the greatest red wines to come from Beaumes de Venise" by Jeb Dunnuck. We've had this direct-import relationship with Xavier Vignon for several years now, but it never ceases to amaze us what comes out of the cellars of this incredibly talented Rhône master. | ||
|
||
| NV Xavier Vignon Vin de France Arcane 0 Le Fou (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More ARCANE/är'kan/: secret; understood by few. No secret to B-21 Southern Rhone fans and collectors, this selection of stunning Arcane wines from the masterful Xavier Vignon offers a range of one of a kind, impeccably crafted cuvees sourced from the Southern Rhone's top terroirs and representing some of the region's best values, now offered at unbeatable pricing perfect for mixing a case. Arriving in the Rhone Valley in the mid-1990's and consulting for such luminaries as Marcoux, Raymond Usseglio and La Nerthe, the combination of Xavier Vignon's insider access to some of the oldest vines across the valley and creative passion for the region's varied terroirs and grapes inspired him to create the series of Arcane wines, naming each unique release after a card in the Tarot deck with matching illustrations on the labels. Xavier's meticulous winemaking requires some detailed descriptions for full appreciation, so let's dive in.
Crafted as singular releases with the goal of capturing the perfect intersection of time and place in the vineyard, these one of a kind wines from Xavier Vignon represent a range of truly exceptional Southern Rhone gems at incredible value prices, and while their tarot namesakes may not reliably predict the future, Xavier Vignon's Arcane label guarantees Southern Rhone fans some seriously enjoyable drinking every time a cork is pulled. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from South Australia, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and this trio of fan favorites more than delivers the goods. Here we have all the opulence, luxurious fruit, and bombastic personality you've come to expect from Mollydooker in three superb value picks that you can stock up on by the case. Whether it's the "supple, juicy, easy-drinking frame" of the 2022 Two Left Feet Shiraz, the "plump fruit flavors" of the 2022 The Boxer Shiraz, or the "fragrant" bouquet and "dense, toothsome tannins" of the 2021 Maitre D Cabernet Sauvignon, there's no shortage of full-throttle Aussie flair here. | ||
|
||
| NV Xavier Vignon Arcane XVII L'Etoile (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Beaumes de Venise, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Regular readers of these pages are no stranger to the stunning wines being produced by Xavier Vignon, who has established a flawless reputation working with such luminaries as Marcoux, Grand Veneur, Raymond Usseglio, and others. Through these relationships, he has gained access to incredibly pristine parcels of very old-vine plantings across the valley, where he works with centenarian vines of Grenache and Syrah as well as 75- to 85-year-old plots of multiple other varieties. As always, we've sourced this latest set directly from Vignon's cellars, so fans of the estate can stock up on any or all of these critically acclaimed favorites for under $25 each. Led by a pair of "sensational" 2015s that each notched 94 points from Wine Advocate, this line-up reflects Vignon's track record as one of the great iconoclastic talents in the Rhône today. The 2015 Le Soleil is "Maybe the best Côte du Rhône Villages I've ever tasted," according to Advocate's Joe Czerwinski, while the 2015 Le Diable is a "sensational" single-vineyard expression of Mourvèdre. The NV Arcane bottlings are every bit as outstanding, highlighted by the 95-point L' Etoile, called "a beautiful, full-bodied, elegant wine that might just be one of the greatest red wines to come from Beaumes de Venise" by Jeb Dunnuck. We've had this direct-import relationship with Xavier Vignon for several years now, but it never ceases to amaze us what comes out of the cellars of this incredibly talented Rhône master. | ||
|
||
| Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 8 (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As the first to introduce Caymus to the state of Florida back in 1981, our decades-long relationship with the Wagner Family of Wines presented a terrific opportunity to feature a selection of their outstanding offerings at rock bottom pricing, from the entry-level Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 7 to the 2022 Caymus California Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Chardonny, Pinot Noir, and the easy-drinking Conundrum blends. Here's what's in stock and ready to enjoy. Boasting dark fruit hinting of vanilla and soft tannins, the Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 7 blends fruit from a variety of vineyard sites and vintages, its name referring to the "Bonanza" of unheralded vineyards throughout the state (and not the TV Western for those of us over a certain age…). Crafted for everyday enjoyment and inspired by Chuck Wagner's father and his "no rules" approach to blending wines, the Conundrum White is a refreshing proprietary blend of a variety of white grapes including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier that boasts lush tropical fruit and crisp acidity, while the Conundrum Red offers rich, dark fruit from its Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, rounded out by pleasant, layered tannins. Sourced from vineyards in Santa Barbara to the south up to Solano County in the north, the Sea Sun Chardonnay balances bright, creamy fruit woven with harmonious toasted oak, while the Sea Sun Pinot Noir offers lush, ripe red fruit hinting of forest and spice with a velvet, palate-pleasing texture, its grapes coming from cool climate vineyards along the Pacific. A comprehensive selection of top-quality wines crafted by the iconic Wagner Family of Wines, this is a not to be missed offer for Caymus fans to mix a case or two, stock up on some everyday wine or select a few favorites – with the legacy of the legendary Caymus behind each label at best on the market pricing, every choice is a win-win. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Flowers Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Driving up California's Highway 1 from Bodega Bay with stunning Pacific Ocean vistas in view, it may be easy to see why Joan and Walt Flowers fell in love with the rugged landscape of Camp Meeting Ridge, but it's hard to imagine how they ever thought the steep, high altitude terrain would become a prime site for growing Chardonnay. Despite the advice of UC Davis that the area was inhospitable for growing grapes, the Flowers' hands-on experience as nursery owners led them to establish Flowers Vineyard and Winery on the property in 1998, producing Burgundy style Chardonnay boasting "elegance and intensity with great balance" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Melanie Wynne and attracting an influx of elite winemakers including Martinelli, Pahlmeyer, Peter Michael and Williams. Credited with "helping to set a new standard of quality" in the region according to the Wine Spectator's Kim Marcus, the Flowers' partnership with Quintessa owner Agustin Huneeus since 2009 has taken Flowers "to a whole new level" according to the Wine Independent's Lisa Perrotti-Brown, the strategic investments including hiring top Burgundy winemaker and consultant Jeremy Seysses of Domaine Dujac to work alongside winemaker Chantal Forthum since 2016. Sourced from the estate's organically farmed Sea View Ridge as well as several coastal partner vineyards and fermented with native yeasts, winemaker Forthum aged the enticing 2023 Flowers Chardonnay in 18% new French oak for 10 months, yielding a beautifully balanced Chard boasting savory fresh fruit with vibrant acidity and chalky minerality that promises pleasurable drinking over the next 5 or more years. From an exceptional Sonoma vintage producing vibrant acidity and remarkable balance, the refreshing 93 pt. 2023 Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay reflects Flowers' long standing reputation for"capturing the pedigree" of its coastal terroir according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, an easy call for fans of cool climate California Chard to stock the cooler with a Top 100 wine at a bargain price.Described by Jeb Dunnuck as producing "a classic elegant Sonoma Coast Chardonnay that does everything right," the elegant 93 pt. 2023 Flowers Sonoma Coast lives up to the winery's reputation as the standard bearer for cool climate Chardonnay from the windswept Pacific coastal region, a delicious, refreshing Chardonnay offering lush, aromatic stone and citrus fruit with a creamy texture and bright acidity on a long, minerally finish and one of the top values on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2024. Sourced from an excellent Sonoma vintage where "Pinot Noir leads the way" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the elegantly aromatic 93 pt. 2022 Flowers Pinot Noir comes from the Flower's organically farmed Sea View Ridge estate as well as select family-owned vineyards on the Sonoma Coast and was aged in 20% new French oak for 11 months, yielding a fresh and delicious Pinot with enticing dark berry fruit hinting of spice and earthy forest on a backbone of flinty, mineral-driven acidity, built to deliver pleasurable drinking over the next decade. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Credited with helping to "put Oregon on the wine map" by the Wine Enthusiast, Ponzi's 50-year legacy of crafting exceptional Pinot Noir in Oregon's Willamette Valley lives on in the elegant 94 pt. 2022 Ponzi Point Noir Laurelwood, beautifully balancing alluring aromatic spiced, earthy fruit with layered velvety tannins and punching "well above its weight class" according to Decanter's Clive Pursehouse at an unbeatable price. Relocating from California in the 1960's, founders Dick and Nancy Ponzi were among a small group of pioneering winemakers who rejected the advice of UC Davis experts that the region was too cold for growing Pinot Noir, purchasing a 20-acre farm in Beaverton southwest of Portland and releasing the first Ponzi Vineyard Pinot in 1974. Expanding to over 130 acres of sustainably certified vineyards over the last decades and now owned by the legendary Champagne house Bollinger, the 2022 Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood was sourced primarily from estate vineyards along with grower partners exclusively from the newly established Laurelwood AVA in the Chehalem Mountains, its distinctive soil of windblown loess over ancient basalt bedrock adding abundant spice notes to the Pinot Noir as well as a backbone of dark, brambly tannins. Named "one of the brightest stars among the new generation in Oregon," Burgundy-trained winemaker Luisa Ponzi fermented the hand sorted grapes in small lots with native yeasts before aging the richly textured 2022 Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood in 30% new French oak for 10 months, yielding "a tension filled core of tart red berry fruit and spice elevated by juicy acidity" according to Vinous critic Eric Guido ready to enjoy over the next five or more years. From the legendary producer Robert Parker called "a reference point for American Pinot Noir," the lush and refined 94 pt. 2022 Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood "shows elegance and a polished structure" according to the Wine Spectator's Tim Fish, checking all the boxes for fans seeking a Burgundy styled Oregon Pinot at a bargain price and continuing the Ponzi's long legacy of over delivering value. | ||
|
||
| NV Xavier Vignon Cotes du Rhone SM2 (750ml) | ||
| From Côtes du Rhône, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From a favorite producer of B-21 Southern Rhone fans, this selection of expertly crafted Xavier Vignon cuvees represents some of the region's top values, a range of terroir expressive blends from a stellar, instinct-driven winemaker unbeatably priced for stocking up by the case.Describing his winemaking skills as "impeccable," Jeb Dunnuck notes these pure and terroir-expressive Xavier Vignon selections offer "superb balance and classic Southern Rhone characters," calling them "a treasure trove for the savvy buyer" and a sure thing for lovers of Southern Rhone wines. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Tenuta delle Terre Nere Rosso (750ml) | ||
| Nerello Mascalese from Etna, Sicily, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Etna is arguably Italy's most dynamic wine region at present, and leading the way is a familiar name to Italian aficionados, Tenuta della Terre Nere. Winemaker Marco de Grazia has been a force in the region's rise to prominence, and his 2023s continue a remarkable run of excellence for this iconic estate. "The [2023s] are some of the most exotic, finessed and elegant wines Terre Nere has ever produced." - Eric Guido, Vinous The inimitable single-vineyard bottlings are collectible gems in every way, but the entry-level, 95-point Etna Rosso shows every bit of de Grazia's top-tier talent that the flagship bottlings do. Sourced from younger vines across the estate's prized vineyards on the north side of the volcano, the 2023 Etna Rosso is "an energetic and wickedly fresh effort [that] aims to please" according to Eric Guido. It's a wine of "brightness, lovely density and focus ... with an almost pinot sensibility and a long finish" per James Suckling. We recently sourced this parcel at superb pricing, so anyone from hardcore Italian aficionados to everyday wine lovers can stock up on an artfully crafted beauty that's "easily one of the best buys coming out of Etna today." | ||
|
||
| 2022 Mollydooker Two Left Feet (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from South Australia, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and this trio of fan favorites more than delivers the goods. Here we have all the opulence, luxurious fruit, and bombastic personality you've come to expect from Mollydooker in three superb value picks that you can stock up on by the case. Whether it's the "supple, juicy, easy-drinking frame" of the 2022 Two Left Feet Shiraz, the "plump fruit flavors" of the 2022 The Boxer Shiraz, or the "fragrant" bouquet and "dense, toothsome tannins" of the 2021 Maitre D Cabernet Sauvignon, there's no shortage of full-throttle Aussie flair here. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Fontanabianca Barbaresco (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Named for the historic well or "white fountain" that lies below the cantina on the northern side of the village of Neive, Fontanabianca is managed by second generation Aldo Polo and his son Matteo, honing his skills under his father along with legendary consultant Beppe Ca' Viola before taking the reins as winemaker in 2016. Situated in an area known for producing "structured, age worthy wines that boast elegance" according to the Wine Enthusiast, the 100% Nebbiolo grapes for the 2021 Barbaresco are sourced from three estate vineyards in the commune of Neive, the vines planted in calcareous clay soils on steep slopes rising to 300 meters above sea level and enjoying full sun exposure that promotes even ripening. Sourced from an outstanding Barbaresco vintage producing "volume, lushness and balance" according to Decanter's Aldo Fiordelli, Matteo aged the 2021 Fontanabianca Barbaresco in used barrels for 15 months followed by 8 more months in bottle, crafted in an enticing style Antonio Galloni calls "hedonistic and decadent Barbaresco at its very best" and yielding a rich and full-bodied Nebbiolo with earthy minerality and fine, polished tannins that promise longevity over the coming 10-15 years. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More It's rare that such a renowned and reference-point estate like Avignonesi keeps pushing new boundaries instead of just resting on their laurels, but that's exactly what this iconic property has been up to for several vintages. And as Eric Guido of Vinous puts it, "The results are pretty stunning." After all, these fan-favorite, best-selling Tuscan reds have been a staple of B-21's Italian portfolio for years, and the 2021 Vino Nobile di Montalcino is poised to break records. "Avignonesi’s flagship bottling remains a fantastic value for first-class Vino Nobile..." - Eric Guido, Vinous The estate's pioneering approach of crafting this wine out of 100% Prugnolo Gentile (the local Sangiovese strain) has made it a singular expression that has helped define the entire Vino Nobile category. The exceptional 2021 vintage has resulted in "a wine of austere elegance on the nose" and a palate that's "medium- to full-bodied with ripe and velvety tannins and lifted, precise acidity." All of it adds up to another stupendous overachiever at our remarkable private client price, which we've come to expect from Avignonesi at this point. It's all the more impressive considering you can stock up big and stash some away in the cellar – as Eric Guido notes, "it will be worth the wait." | ||
|
||
| 2015 Xavier Vignon Cuvee Anonyme (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More With such shockingly delicious cuvees as his 2007 Anonyme – Vignon's debut wine under his own label – you and I came to know the genius behind so many of the Rhone’s greatest bottlings (that was my first offer to you, way back in 2014). As sole winemaker for Xavier Vins, Vignon also consults for such luminaries as Raymond Usseglio, Marcoux, Grand Veneur and a host of others. Alas, as with so many upstarts, Xavier Vins' huge notoriety (Parker & Dunnuck scores through the roof) hindered supply. Complicating matters, Xavier has quite a unique winemaking style; vinification periods, combined with bottle aging can lead to wines being held back five or six years before reaching the market. Other than Henri Bonneau – with his Cuvee Celestins – no other winemaker in the Valley – that I know of – produces wines in this manner. The wines, however, are worth the minor headaches; patience pays big dividends when it comes to Xavier's wines. Moreover, because he doesn't actually own an estate – playing dual roles as oenologist and negociant – his overhead is nominal. So the wines we're enjoying are doubly impressive; powerful, deeply complex, aged to perfection – and insanely underpriced. | ||
|
||
| 2016 Purlieu Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Frenchman Julien Fayard is the winemaker at Purlieu. He grew up working at his uncle’s Chateau in Provence where his interest in wine was set for life. Leaving Provence he traveled to Bordeaux working at both Chateau Lafite-Rothschild in Pauillac and Smith Haut Laffite in Pessac-Leognan – a most serious foundation in Cabernet and the understanding the great wine is made in the vineyard. Before Purlieu, Julien worked at Quintessa and then five years as director of Atelier Melka gaining an intimate understanding of Napa Valley while connecting with top growers dedicated to quality – Andy Beckstoffer being one of those. Beckstoffer provides Purlieu fruit for three of their top bottlings; Georges III, To Kalon, and Missouri Hopper. Collectables indeed. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Marietta Arme (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From a California vintage described as "amazing" by James Suckling, these highly rated 2021 Marietta Cellars selection are crafted in a "deliciously drinkable style" according to Jeb Dunnuck, a wide range of vineyard-focused cuvees sourced exclusively from estate fruit and affordably priced for stocking up by the case. Established by third generation Sonoma native Chris Bilbro over four decades ago, Marietta Cellars has continued its founder's legacy of producing exceptional, reasonably priced California wines under his son Scot since 2012, sourcing the portfolio from over 400 acres of organically farmed estate vineyards. Crafted from mostly old vine Syrah dating back to the late 1800's, the sumptuous 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Christo boasts ripe, succulent dark fruit hinting of peppery herbs with zesty acidity, a silky Rhone blend with integrated tannins promising to evolve over the next decade. The powerful 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Arme is an impressive Bordeaux style blend dominated by rich California Cabernet Sauvignon described as "incredibly elegant" by the Wine Advocate's Erin Brooks. Sourced from the 35-acre Angeli Vineyard first planted in the late 1880's, the 96 pt. 2021 Marietta Angeli is a blend of old vine Zinfandel with small amounts of Petite Sirah and Syrah aged in neutral barrels, offering bright, spiced fruit with a seamless, silky texture and harmonious tannins built to satisfy a Zinfandel craving over the next decade and called "absolutely delicious" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni.. Sourced from old vine Syrah planted over a century ago, the powerful 95 pt. 2021 Marietta Gibson Block Syrah is "intensely bold and savory" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, revealing richly concentrated fruit hinting of graphite with refined, integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, summed up as "absolutely delicious" by critic Galloni and promising to mature gracefully in the cellar for another ten years or more. Living up to Marietta's long-time reputation for over delivering value, Antonio Galloni of Vinous declared "Scot Bilbro has the magic touch when it comes to crafting wines that deliver superb quality for the money across the various tiers in this range," these unbeatably priced 2021 Marietta selections an opportunity for Marietta fans to stock up on their favorites and for newbies to mix a case and enjoy Marietta's combination of exceptional quality and outstanding bang for the buck. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Carneros, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sonoma's standard-bearer Ferrari-Carano needs little introduction. These quintessential California classics have been all-time best sellers at B-21 for years, and it's always nice to see a standard bearer continue to hit the mark. These 2021s and 2022s showcase winemaking duo Rebecka Deike and Natalie West at their best, all notching solid press from James Suckling and offering outstanding value and consistent excellence. The "Ripe yet elegantly balanced and refreshing" 2023 Chardonnay is a top-shelf value performer at 91 points & under $16, a perfect option for your next go-to house white. A step (or two) up at 94 points, the 2022 Tre Terre is "full bodied with lovely texture and tension" per Suckling, outpacing it's sub-$25 price. For the reds, the 2021 Siena hits on all cylinders for fans of this QPR best seller, while the 2021 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon catches 92 points from Suckling, who notes, "Medium-bodied with fine tannins and beautiful length. Bright and vivid. Plenty of cabernet character." If you're looking for surefire quality at an easy price, you almost have too many good options with these Sonoma classics. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif (750ml) | ||
| Petite Sirah from North Coast, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Welcome to Round Two of our exceptional offer from the Wagner Family of Wines, a terrific opportunity to stock up on some outstanding big, bold reds from Caymus-Suisun and a selection of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Merlot crafted by the Caymus team, all at specially negotiated pricing while they last. Backed by the quality legacy of Caymus founder Chuck Wagner, here's what's in stock and ready to enjoy. Sourced from Monterey, Chuck Wagner's richly styled 2022 Mer Soleil Chardonnay Reserve offers opulent, buttery tropical fruit. Crafted by Chuck's daughter Jenny Wagner, the crisp and refreshing 2023 Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc offers citrus fruit flavors with bright acidity, and the full-bodied 2021 Emmolo Merlot boasts ripe and rich dark fruit hinting of oak and vanilla with smooth supple tannins. Produced at the Wagner Family's new state of the art winery located in Solana County's Suisun Valley (pronounced su-soon), the outstanding 2021 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif is a blend highlighting bold, luscious dark Petit Sirah with hints of toasted herbs and spice layered with plush tannins while the lush 2023 Caymus-Suisun Walking Fool boasts the earthy, spiced flavors of Zinfandel with tantalizing acidity on a smooth finish. As the first to introduce Caymus to Florida, B-21 Caymus fans are reaping the rewards of our long standing relationship. With the Caymus reputation for quality behind each label, this unique opportunity to mix a case or two from the Wagner's wide ranging portfolio at special bargain pricing is offered for a limited time, all immensely enjoyable wines that will have Caymus fans wishing they'd bought more. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Mollydooker The Maitre D' Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from South Australia, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and this trio of fan favorites more than delivers the goods. Here we have all the opulence, luxurious fruit, and bombastic personality you've come to expect from Mollydooker in three superb value picks that you can stock up on by the case. Whether it's the "supple, juicy, easy-drinking frame" of the 2022 Two Left Feet Shiraz, the "plump fruit flavors" of the 2022 The Boxer Shiraz, or the "fragrant" bouquet and "dense, toothsome tannins" of the 2021 Maitre D Cabernet Sauvignon, there's no shortage of full-throttle Aussie flair here. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from McLaren Vale, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Juicy and seamless, this is impressive for its generosity and plush texture..." - MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and none of their wines is more widely loved and admired for that style than the iconic Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz. A blend of four top-notch McLaren Vale vineyards, including Mollydooker's own estate, plus a touch of Langhorne Creek fruit, the 2022 was barrel-fermented and aged entirely in American oak, half new, giving it the customary spicy complexity that accents the luxurious fruit for which Mollydooker is so famous. At our razor-sharp pricing, all you need to do is load up and enjoy! | ||
|
||
| 2021 Frog's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "A rather dark, meaty, and savoury expression from this iconic Rutherford Estate ... Fresh, balanced, quite complex, and quite cellar-worthy." - Decanter A pioneer of dry farming in Napa Valley, Frog's Leap has been a long-time exponent of the quintessential Rutherford style, making them a beloved, best-selling name among Napa Cab fans. The outstanding 2021 vintage sees this historic estate hit another high mark with their Estate Cabernet hitting 95 points from Decanter. "Classically styled stuff" according to Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski, you'll find all the hallmark "Rutherford dust" as the AVA's red soil terroir is known, along with dense, brooding, primary fruit that harkens back to a style of Napa Cabernet that we don't often see nowadays. Add to that the exceptional quality of the 2021 growing season, and you have another fan favorite in the making whether you want to enjoy it now or cellar it for the next decade plus to allow it to reach its full potential. | ||
|
||
| Redbreast 12yr Irish Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Midleton, County Cork, Ireland | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As the bourbon and Scotch markets become overheated (to say the least), we've noticed a subtle but steady growth in demand for top-tier Irish whiskey, and few names deliver the goods like the iconic brands on offer today. We recently secured must-see, limited-time pricing on a pair of all-time best sellers in Green Spot and Redbreast 12 Year Old. These two have been mainstays in the boutique, pot-still Irish whiskey renaissance, and they're now both available at razor-sharp pricing under $60. Kara Newman of Wine Enthusiast calls the 95-point Redbreast 12 Year a "classic," and based on its legions of fans, it fits that bill. Green Spot is likewise a timeless standard-bearer for the category in today's market. As Whisky Advocate once declared, "If this doesn't persuade you to fall in love with Irish pot still whiskey, then nothing will." Anyone still not clued in to Ireland's best representations needs to check in with these benchmarks, and hardcore fans will not want to miss the chance to stock up at a steal. Speaking of Ireland's best, we're also featuring pinnacle expressions from each distillery at their own special one-time pricing. Already a flash sell-out on initial release, the Red Spot 15 Year Old is a triple-distilled stunner made from a Mitchell & Sons' heirloom family recipe. Aged 15 years in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and marsala casks, it's a deeply pitched version that takes classic Irish pot distillate to another level of complexity and charm. For Irish whiskey taken to the level of luxury, the Redbreast 27 Year Old is the reference point, its ruby port cask character on full display for a thrilling combination of Irish finesse and unabashed opulence, all for a price that should have collectors taking advantage. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Petrolo Galatrona (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Val d'Arno di Sopra, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is just a tremendous wine by any measure." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Widely considered one of the world's finest collectible Merlots, Petrolo's Galatrona hit astounding heights in 2021. The Galatrona vineyard in the southeast Chianti hills is ideally suited to Merlot, with southeast exposure and loamy clay soils rich in marl, shale, and sandstone that retain plenty of moisture in the hot Tuscan summers. This superb terroir allows for a beautifully expressive wine seemingly regardless of vintage conditions, and what's more it routinely stands along side iconic bottlings like Masseto and Messorio at a mere fraction of their prices. The 2021 has garnered huge press from across the critical spectrum, with a pair of 98-point scores and a pair of 97-point scores for good measure. Antonio Galloni describes "a feeling of vertical, explosive energy that catapults the 2021 into the stratosphere," while Wine Spectator calls it "seamless and luxuriously saturated ... more about finesse and elegance than power, with a vibrant profile and superlong finish." Galatrona's track record is iron-clad, one of the finest in the region and certainly in the top echelon of Italian Bordeaux-varietal wines, and the 2021 is all teed up to become another legend in the making for this iconic Tuscan superstar, at a razor-sharp price that's nearly unbeatable in the market. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Domaine du Cayron Gigondas (750ml) | ||
| From Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...a medium to full-bodied, gamey, exotic, balanced Gigondas that's just about overflowing with character." - Jeb Dunnuck A favorite producer of B-21 Rhône fans and collectors offering incredible quality at an unbeatable value, Domaine du Cayron has hits the mark once again with their 2022 Gigondas. Fifth-generation sisters Roseline, Cendrine, and Delphine source their family’s single cuvée from old vines planted at some of the appellation’s highest altitudes, the domain's name Cayron referring to the crest of the Dentelles. Spanning nearly 17 hectares on 20 different parcels, the domaine’s vineyards are planted with mostly Grenache and smaller amounts of Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre on a mix of clay, marl and limestones soils. Employing traditional methods that are “old school all the way” according to Jeb Dunnuck, the Faraud sisters have produced "a killer effort offering beautiful darker fruits supported by some meaty, garrigue, and iron-like nuances" in their 2022 Gigondas. Along with Dunnuck, Vinous' Nicolas Greinacher declares "it’s an outstanding Gigondas worth seeking out" that will captivate fans of bold Southern Rhône reds on the first sip, while providing consistent pleasure for the next decade. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Marietta Angeli Cuvee (750ml) | ||
| Zinfandel from Sonoma, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From a California vintage described as "amazing" by James Suckling, these highly rated 2021 Marietta Cellars selection are crafted in a "deliciously drinkable style" according to Jeb Dunnuck, a wide range of vineyard-focused cuvees sourced exclusively from estate fruit and affordably priced for stocking up by the case. Established by third generation Sonoma native Chris Bilbro over four decades ago, Marietta Cellars has continued its founder's legacy of producing exceptional, reasonably priced California wines under his son Scot since 2012, sourcing the portfolio from over 400 acres of organically farmed estate vineyards. Crafted from mostly old vine Syrah dating back to the late 1800's, the sumptuous 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Christo boasts ripe, succulent dark fruit hinting of peppery herbs with zesty acidity, a silky Rhone blend with integrated tannins promising to evolve over the next decade. The powerful 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Arme is an impressive Bordeaux style blend dominated by rich California Cabernet Sauvignon described as "incredibly elegant" by the Wine Advocate's Erin Brooks. Sourced from the 35-acre Angeli Vineyard first planted in the late 1880's, the 96 pt. 2021 Marietta Angeli is a blend of old vine Zinfandel with small amounts of Petite Sirah and Syrah aged in neutral barrels, offering bright, spiced fruit with a seamless, silky texture and harmonious tannins built to satisfy a Zinfandel craving over the next decade and called "absolutely delicious" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni.. Sourced from old vine Syrah planted over a century ago, the powerful 95 pt. 2021 Marietta Gibson Block Syrah is "intensely bold and savory" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, revealing richly concentrated fruit hinting of graphite with refined, integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, summed up as "absolutely delicious" by critic Galloni and promising to mature gracefully in the cellar for another ten years or more. Living up to Marietta's long-time reputation for over delivering value, Antonio Galloni of Vinous declared "Scot Bilbro has the magic touch when it comes to crafting wines that deliver superb quality for the money across the various tiers in this range," these unbeatably priced 2021 Marietta selections an opportunity for Marietta fans to stock up on their favorites and for newbies to mix a case and enjoy Marietta's combination of exceptional quality and outstanding bang for the buck. | ||
|
||
| 2019 Paul Jaboulet-Aine Hermitage La Chapelle (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from Hermitage, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Driving through the Northern Rhône Valley past the steeply sloping hillsides south of Tain L’Hermitage, first time visitors might notice a small centuries old chapel perched unassumingly among rows of vines. But lovers of Northern Rhone Syrah recognize this landmark as the hallowed ground of one of the greatest wines in the world, La Chapelle. Planting vineyards here almost two centuries ago, Antoine Jaboulet was at the forefront of establishing Hermitage (the region in fact named for the hermit who used to live in the chapel) as one of the most important wine producing regions of the world and later giving his name to the company – Paul Jaboulet Ainé (Ainé meaning the elder in French). It is always with great excitement that we offer a selection of the outstanding, highly rated wines of Jaboulet at incredible pre-arrival pricing, from the exceptional 2019 vintage. Passed down from generation to generation and expanding through the years, Jaboulet now owns 120 hectares, producing fine wines from twenty six other appellations. Ten years after the untimely death of Gerard Jaboulet and a subsequent decline in quality, the Frey family, also owners of Château La Lagune in Bordeaux and part-owner of Champagne house Billecart-Salmon, purchased Jaboulet in 2006. Oenologist Caroline Frey implemented new winemaking practices (including a new barrel program from Bordeaux) and viticultural improvements (including a shift to organic and biodynamic vineyard practices), spearheading the estate’s recent renaissance and culminating in the stellar 2019 vintage. The extraordinary 2019 Jaboulet La Chapelle Hermitage is made from 100% Syrah from their top vineyard sites including Les Bessards, Le Meal and Les Rocoules. Formerly known as “Le Petite Chapelle,” the 2019 Jaboulet Hermitage Maison Bleue is sourced from the Rocoules section of the Hermitage hill, making it more approachable at a younger age. Sourced from the pebble-strewn lieu-dit Les Chassis, a vineyard owned by Jaboulet since its founding in 1834, the 2019 Crozes Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert exhibits Hermitage-like truffle nuances and velvety tannins. And for fans of Hermitage Blanc, the Marsanne-dominated 2019 Hermitage Le Chevalier De Sterimberg Blanc is elegant and cellar-worthy. Upon taking over at Jaboulet, Carolyn Frey stated her aim for the estate was a simple one - “Nothing less than perfection.” The 2019 Jaboulet wines hit the mark, establishing a new standard for excellence upon a centuries-old tradition of excellence, offering exceptional quality now for an exceptional price. | ||
|
||
| 1792 Full Proof Bourbon B-21 Single Barrel Select (750ml) | ||
| From Bardstown, Kentucky | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This almost 9-year-old single barrel is a picture-perfect showcase of the Barton style and master distiller Ken Pierce’s skill with high-rye mashbills." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer Sazerac's Barton distillery may not have nearly the cachet of its sister facility, Buffalo Trace, but it's nonetheless the source of some stellar, powerhouse expressions under the 1792 label. We selected barrel #927 for its unabashedly spicy, full-proof character, as we felt it delivered all the hallmark features that make 1792 such a savvy choice among connoisseurs of the high-rye style. As mentioned, it starts off with a huge, spice-driven personality but there's no shortage of luxury here either. Bombastic, dark fruits take center stage with a little air and water, with the rye notes playing a fabulous counterpart to all that opulence. At almost nine years old, the whiskey carries its massive 125 proof with incredible ease and sophistication, hardly showing any heat and rough edges you might expect at that level. Best of all, it's an absolute steal and a true testament to the razor-sharp value available under the 1792 label, especially in a category that has seen other single-barrel bottlings shoot through the roof in terms of pricing. | ||
|
||
| Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Midleton, County Cork, Ireland | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As the bourbon and Scotch markets become overheated (to say the least), we've noticed a subtle but steady growth in demand for top-tier Irish whiskey, and few names deliver the goods like the iconic brands on offer today. We recently secured must-see, limited-time pricing on a pair of all-time best sellers in Green Spot and Redbreast 12 Year Old. These two have been mainstays in the boutique, pot-still Irish whiskey renaissance, and they're now both available at razor-sharp pricing under $60. Kara Newman of Wine Enthusiast calls the 95-point Redbreast 12 Year a "classic," and based on its legions of fans, it fits that bill. Green Spot is likewise a timeless standard-bearer for the category in today's market. As Whisky Advocate once declared, "If this doesn't persuade you to fall in love with Irish pot still whiskey, then nothing will." Anyone still not clued in to Ireland's best representations needs to check in with these benchmarks, and hardcore fans will not want to miss the chance to stock up at a steal. Speaking of Ireland's best, we're also featuring pinnacle expressions from each distillery at their own special one-time pricing. Already a flash sell-out on initial release, the Red Spot 15 Year Old is a triple-distilled stunner made from a Mitchell & Sons' heirloom family recipe. Aged 15 years in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and marsala casks, it's a deeply pitched version that takes classic Irish pot distillate to another level of complexity and charm. For Irish whiskey taken to the level of luxury, the Redbreast 27 Year Old is the reference point, its ruby port cask character on full display for a thrilling combination of Irish finesse and unabashed opulence, all for a price that should have collectors taking advantage. | ||
|
||
| Glenfiddich 21yr Gran Reserva Reserva Rum Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch (750ml) | ||
| From Dufftown, Speyside, Scotland | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...this vibrant amontillado cask finish from malt master Brian Kinsman adds sweetness and depth to the 12 year old..." - Whisky Advocate As we anticipate the unveiling of this year's Whisky Advocate Top 20 Whiskies of 2024, we think it's a great opportunity to check in on one of the honorees from last year's roster, now at market-leading, sub-$40 pricing for a limited time. Glenfiddich's 12 Year Old Single Malt has legions of fans around the world, and while the flagship bottling has always been a cornerstone of any great Scotch bar, the distillery is also a pioneer in different cask-finishing styles. Over the years, some have been better than others, but the team at Glenfiddich simply nailed this Amontillado sherry cask version. This fan favorite turned a lot of heads last year when it landed at #14 on the Top 20 Whiskies of 2023. Sitting pretty among other bottlings at many times its price, it instantly became one of the smartest single malt buys on the market. If you or the Glenfiddich fan in your life need to start the holidays off with a bang, this is the deal to do it, and now is the time to stock up big. Speaking of the holidays, it's also time to think about those showstopping gifts that will leave a lasting impression for years, and the Glenfiddich 21 Year Old Gran Reserva Rum Cask Finish Single Malt will do just the trick. With monster press and a singular take on this beloved collector's malt, the 21 Year is a must for any fan of the of the world's best-selling Scotch distillery. | ||
|
||
| 2019 Paolo Conterno Barolo Riva del Bric (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From an outstanding vintage for Barolo lovers highlighting the "nuance, subtlety and structure of Nebbiolo" according to Vinous' Antonio Galloni, the elegant 93 pt. 2019 Paolo Conterno Barolo Riva del Bric is an exceptional Cru Barolo revealing beautifully aromatic, concentrated Nebbiolo fruit with fine, supple tannins on a lengthy and refined finish, promising a decade or more of pleasurable drinking and offered at market-best pricing that makes it easy for Barolo fans and collectors to stash away by the case. Founded in the late 19th century by Paolo Conterno, the estate originally known as Casa della Ginestra was one of the pioneering producers in Barolo, among the first to sub-divide vineyards according to exposure and terrain and selling its wines directly to consumers instead of through the established négociant network. Now run by fourth-generation proprietor Giorgio Conterno, the estate consists of ten hectares of vineyards in the Ginestra cru just north of the village of Monforte d'Alba, known for producing Barolo wines that "always show an extra degree of richness and dark fruit" according to Wine Advocate's Monica Larner and called "one of the finest vineyards in Italy" by Galloni. Sourced from a section of Ginestra planted with younger vines, Riva del Bric is a designation trademarked by the historic estate, the vines averaging 25 years of age and planted in heavy calcareous clay and blue marl soils on a steep slope at 300 to 350 meters elevation. Employing shorter macerations of the hand-harvested Nebbiolo grapes to make it more immediately accessible, Conterno aged the impeccably balanced 2019 for 30 to 36 months in large French oak casks with an additional 6-12 months in bottle before release, revealing fresh and intensely aromatic fruit with distinctive minerality and vibrant acidity and yielding an approachable, classically styled Barolo just entering its 15-year window of evolution. Describing the Barolo wines from the exceptional 2019 vintage as promising "long and glorious cellar aging,"Larner declared, "My cellar is stocked, how about yours?" This offer on the 2019 Paolo Conterno Barolo Riva del Bric is a value-packed opportunity for collectors to stock up on a rare Barolo bargain by the case and enjoy the nuanced complexity of expertly crafted, terroir-expressive Nebbiolo for decades to come. | ||
|
||
