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| 2019 Paolo Conterno Barolo Riva del Bric (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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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. | ||
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| 1792 Full Proof Bourbon B-21 Single Barrel Select (750ml) | ||
| From Bardstown, Kentucky | ||
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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. | ||
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| Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Midleton, County Cork, Ireland | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2022 Vina Almaviva (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Puente Alto, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "So complex and sophisticated ... It's all about elegance and class." - James Suckling Living up to Decanter's description as "a New World Grand Cru," the 99-point 2022 Viña Almaviva is another resounding triumph for this benchmark Bordeaux-style blend built on Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile's top terroir. Château Mouton-Rothschild and Concha y Toro established Almaviva to craft a Bordeaux-style wine based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Chile's emblematic Carmeñere. Centered around a large parcel of Cab that was originally part of Concha Y Toro's iconic Don Melchor vineyard, Almaviva's 60-hectare estate is located on the northern bank of the Maipo River at 650 meters above sea level, enjoying the cooling influence of the Andes and boasting unique, deep gravel and loam soils that contribute stony minerality to the signature cuvée. Described by Vinous critic Joaquin Hidalgo as "a powerful and energetic red," the blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Carmeñere, 4% Cab Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot was aged 70% new French oak for 20 months. The deeply textured Cabernet Sauvignon combines with the soft, velvety tannins of Carmeñere to produce a "lush, layered opulence" according to the Wine Advocate. A "sensational" effort that "will go the distance in terms of ageing potential" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, this rendition of Almaviva reaffirms the wine's status as a top-echelon, New World cult collectible. | ||
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| 2020 Rippon Rippon Pinot Noir Mature Vines (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Central Otago, New Zealand | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From an outstanding growing season yielding New Zealand's "vintage of the century" according to James Suckling, the fresh and refined 2020 Rippon Pinot Noir Mature Vines is an enticing, small production gem offering earthy, seductive red fruit shimmering with bright acidity and finishing with firm, mouth coating tannins, masterfully crafted by talented winemaker Nick Rolfe from old vine fruit for collectors and lovers of the world's best Pinot Noirs to enjoy over the next decade. Overlooking the turquoise waters of glacier fed Lake Tanaka framed by stunning vertical cliffs, Rippon's sloping 15 hectares of vines on New Zealand's mountainous South Island are among the world's most photographed vineyards, producing equally impressive award-winning Pinot Noirs that rank it among "New Zealand's most celebrated wineries" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Christine Packard. Among the first to cultivate wine grapes in Central Otago, Nick's father Rolfe Mills was serving in World War II when he recognized the similarity of the schist soil slopes of Portugal's Douro Valley to those back in Wanaka and returned to his family's lakeside farm decades later to experiment with different varietals before founding his winery in 1982. After training at some of Burgundy's most iconic estates including Domaine de la Romanee-Conti and Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron, Nick took the reins of his family's winery in 2003, converting the vineyards to biodynamic viticulture, fermenting the hand harvested grapes parcel by parcel with indigenous yeasts and bottling without filtering or fining. Located in a protected area where the indigenous Maori came for a "place of rest," Rippon's 40 plus year old own rooted Pinot Noir vines are planted in a mix of schist with clay and loam at an altitude of 380 meters above sea level without irrigation, the vineyard's proximity to the lake creating a microclimate that shields the vines from the South Island's harsh winter temperatures. Maturing over two winters in barrel, the richly concentrated 2020 Rippon Pinot Noir Mature Vines was aged in 15% to 20% new in the first winter and completely neutral oak in the second winter before bottling without filtering or fining and spending two years longer in the cellar prior to release, yielding a harmonious, mineral-nuanced Pinot Noir promising to mature gracefully over the next decade and offering "a tantalizing glimpse of what New Zealand Pinot Noir can achieve with mature vines" according to Vinous critic Neal Martin. From a standard bearer of the region reflecting the very essence of its pristine Central Otago terroir, the remarkably elegant 2020 Rippon Pinot Noir Mature Vines ranks among the world's most complex and cellar-worthy old vine Pinot Noir cuvees, an under the radar beauty delivering exceptional value and promising Pinot lovers a thrilling evolution ahead. | ||
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| 2021 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon The Pact (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Coombsville, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "No deal with the devil required - the Huneeus family was ahead of the game when they staked a Cabernet claim in Coombsville with Faust." James Molesworth, Wine Spectator A decadent, age-worthy Napa Cab from the team behind Quintessa, the powerful 97-point 2021 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon The Pact impeccably balances rich dark fruit, tantalizing minerality and layered, refined tannins,sourced from an exceptional Napa vintage described as "fabulous" by Antonio Galloni of Vinous and promising over a decade of enjoyment at an unbeatable price. One of the first to recognize the potential for growing Cabernet Sauvignon in the remote southeastern corner of Napa Valley, visionary Quintessa founder Agustin Huneeus established the Faust winery in Coombsville in 1998 three years before it was recognized as an AVA, the region's growing reputation for exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon attracting some of Napa's top winemakers over the last two decades including Andy Erickson and Paul Hobbs. Known for developing Mondavi's Opus One and rebuilding Cardinale and Rudd, then Faust winemaker Charles Thomas recognized the unique attributes of the estate's lower yielding, higher altitude parcels and began to separate those plots of Coombsville fruit for a new bottling in 2007, naming it "The Pact" after Goethe's classic Faustian bargain of making "a deal with the devil." Located on a 128-acre hillside estate in well-draining rocky, volcanic soils, the elevated, low yielding parcels for the Pact are influenced by a unique 'cup and saucer' like ridge called the 'caldera' funneling winds from the San Pablo Bay and creating conditions for extended, gradual ripening, while overnight fog lingering late into the morning lowers temperatures and enhances the Cabernet's natural acidity. A Napa Valley veteran who produced top scoring Cabs at Harlan, Joseph Phelps and Groth, winemaker David Jelinek vinified each parcel for The Pact separately and aged the final blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot for 22 months in 45% new French oak before bottling, yielding a seductively smooth Cab described by James Suckling as "really complex and flavor intensive" promising to age beautifully and declaring "I can't wait." The richly textured 2021 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon The Pact was among a handful of the highest rated Coombsville Cabs of the vintage yet priced at a fraction of the region's higher profile producers, delivering one the best values in Napa Cab and an exceptional pour to enjoy over the next and beyond. | ||
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| 2021 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma, California | ||
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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. | ||
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| Glenfiddich 12yr Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch (750ml) | ||
| From Dufftown, Speyside, Scotland | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2021 Marietta Gibson Block Syrah (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from McDowell Valley, California | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2020 Stolpman Vineyards Originals (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from Santa Barbara, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declared "one of the reference-point estates in Ballard Canyon" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, these highly rated, site specific wines from Stolpman Vineyards deliver superb quality at an astonishing price. Establishing their reputation as pioneering growers in California's Ballard Canyon and selling their fruit to cult producers like Sine Qua Non, second-generation Pete Stolpman along with esteemed vineyard manager Ruben Solorzano now craft the outstanding Stolpman portfolio from their 150 acres of estate vineyards planted over three distinct limestone ridges in Santa Barbara County, yielding vibrant, complex and impeccably balanced wines ranging from entry level offerings to top estate cuvees. Described as "a total charmer" and "a ridiculous value" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the 93 pt. 2021 La Cuadrilla is a rich blend dominated by estate grown Syrah with proceeds benefiting Solorzano's dedicated La Cuadrilla vineyard crew. Stolpman's white wines include the richly textured 97 pt. 2020 L'Avion Roussanne named "one of the stars" of the outstanding 2020 vintage by the Wine Advocate's Erin Brooks, reminiscent of the Northern Rhone's great white wines at a fraction of the cost. Stolpman's most unique wines include the savory, dark-fruited 96 pt. 2020 Hair of the Bear, a combination of co-fermented Petite Sirah and Roussanne that's "magical" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Matt Kettman. Based on old vine fruit planted by founder Tom Stolpman, the 96 pt. 2020 Sangiovese offers "layered flavors and loads of juicy appeal" according to the Wine Advocate's Erin Brooks, an homage to Tuscany's revered grape crafted by winemaker Kyle Knapp in a ripe California style. Inspired by his love of Northern Rhone wines, Tom Stolpman's Syrah plantings are the oldest in the Ballard Canyon AVA is the full-bodied 94 pt. 2020 Angeli Cuvee is sourced from the estate's oldest own-rooted Syrah, described as a "pure, downright vibrant wine" by Jeb Dunnuck. Boasting 90 plus point ratings across their portfolio, these selections from Ballard Canyon's iconic Stolpman Vineyards are garnering well deserved attention from critics across the board, challenging its under the radar status and making now the best time to mix a case or two of these top rated and top value Santa Barbara beauties and take advantage of this exceptional pricing | ||
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| 2022 Domaine du Cayron Gigondas (750ml) | ||
| From Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Canon (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We just can't get enough of the incredible 2019 Bordeaux! Described as "unquestionably a great vintage for Bordeaux" by Jeb Dunnuck, this absolutely stunning lineup of exceptional 2019s are all rated 97 pts and above with four scoring 100 pts., offered at value pricing that's hard to resist – pick a few favorites or mix a case or two and prepare to enjoy these age worthy beauties for years to come. "One heck of an impressive Margaux" according to Jeb Dunnuck, the elegant 97 pt. 2019 Chateau Giscours is mostly Cabernet with 35% Merlot, its well-integrated oak and ripe tannins poised to evolve for "two decades or so," - as Antonio Galloni of Vinous declares, "The 2019 is fabulous - that's all there is to it." Earning the #13 spot of the Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Cellar Selections 2022, the "perfect" 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Troplong Mondot is a dazzling St. Emilion blend of mostly Merlot, "without question one of the wines of the vintage" according to critic Galloni that Jane Anson of Inside Bordeaux calls "impressive" with chalky limestone tannins that "speaks of its soils." A Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend from Pessac Leognan, the muscular 99 pt. 2019 Chateau Haut Bailly is "just magic" according to the Wine Advocate's Lisa Perrotti-Brown, described as "unquestionably a big wine with a brilliant future" by critic Galloni. Always delivering one of the top values from Pauillac since its transformation by the brilliant Alfred Tesseron and his team, the powerful and alluring 99 pt. 2019 Chaeau Pontet Canet is "extremely well balanced and well-integrated" according to Decanter's Georgina Hindle, a full-bodied Left Bank blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon that Hindle calls "just such a great wine, everything you want" with firm, velvety tannins "promising a long life." Declaring "Oh, this is good," Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson calls St. Estephe's elegant 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Montrose "a masterclass in the flavors and aromatics that you expect in a great Medoc wine" and one that "makes you smile," summed up by James Suckling as "polished and very fine with lovely length." The massive 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron offers the power of well-crafted Cabernet Sauvignon blended with a little Merlot, boasting a firm tannic grip that "lands you squarely in Pauillac" according to critic Anson that "will age for decades without breaking a sweat." Blending mostly Merlot with Cabernet Franc, St. Emilion's lush 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Canon 100 pt. is described as "one of the most refined, elegant Right Bank wines of the vintage" by the Wine Advocate's William Kelley, "with a deep core of fruit, beautifully refined tannins" and as noted by the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth, "a fine lacy thread of chalky minerality" that James Suckling declares "one for the cellar." Elegantly crafted from mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, Neal Martin of Vinous calls the enchanting 99 pt. 2019 Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande "an absolute show-stopper" with gorgeous aromatics reminiscent of Latour, "a powerful, multi-dimensional Pichon-Lalande," that he sums up in a single word, "Stunning." Described as "a brilliant wine as one of the stars of the show from Margaux" by Jeb Dunnuck, the Left Bank's classically-styled 99 pt. 2019 Chateau Palmer is "a very fine wine with a serious structure" that "will age for many years" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss and called "a brilliant rendition of the contemporary Palmer style" by the Wine Advocate's William Kelley. A treasure trove of exceptional Left and Right bank blends promising decades of longevity, those Bordeaux fans and collectors who make room in the cellar for these top-rated 2019's will be rewarded again and again, these beautiful top-rated Bordeaux certain to provide enjoyment for years to come. | ||
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| 2019 Nicolas-Jay l'Ensemble Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A "best of the best" blend of the most outstanding barrels from top Willamette Valley parcels, Burgundy superstar winemaker Jean-Nicolas Meo's alluring 94 pt. 2019 Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir l'Ensemble offers lush earthy aromas of rich, bright red fruit with refined, velvety tannins, meticulously crafted by a "winemaker at the top of his art" according to the Wine Spectator's Per-Henrik Mansson and a terrific value certain to appeal to fans of classically styled Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and lovers of Red Burgundy alike. Perched high in the Dundee Hills west of Newberg in Willamette's Yamhill-Carlton AVA, the 53 acre Nicolas-Jay estate boasts a contemporary state-of-the-art gravity winemaking facility and intimate tasting room in a restored cattle barn bordered by towering fir trees and Oregon white oaks, its newly planted vineyards situated on a natural amphitheater with breathtaking views of the Chehalem Mountains. A culmination of a three-decade long friendship founded on a shared love of Pinot Noir, Nicolas-Jay was established by music producer Jay Boberg and renowned Burgundy winemaker Jean-Nicolas Meo in 2012, the co-owner of Domaine Meo-Camuzet known for his 30 year legacy of producing exceptional red Burgundy from Grand Cru vineyards including Richebourg, Clos de Vougeot and Echezeaux. Employing techniques that mirror his vineyard-focused approach at Meo-Camuzet, Jean-Nicolas' expertise influences all aspects of the winemaking at Nicolas-Jay, his meticulous attention to detail including strictly limiting yields, harvesting earlier than many neighboring producers and placing the fruit in small cherry bins to prevent bruising. After separating the 100% destemmed Pinot Noir grapes into up to 30 individual native yeast fermentations to focus on the purity of the fruit, Jean-Nicolas utilizes gentle pump-overs to keep the berries intact before switching to the more common punch-downs to build tannic structure. Blending the most exceptional barrels sourced from their top parcels from a range of AVA's across the Valley, Jean-Nicolas and associate winemaker Tracy Kendall aged the elegant 2019 Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir l'Ensemble in 35% new French oak barrels crafted by the same coopers used for the Meo-Camuzet wines for 16 months before bottling it unfiltered and unfined, yielding a polished and silky Pinot Noir reminiscent of red Burgundy with fresh earthy fruit and a lengthy spiced finish hinting of chalky minerality that reflects its Willamette Valley origins. From a classic Oregon vintage producing "epic Pinot Noirs of noteworthy elegance and energy" according to Vinous critic Josh Raynolds, Jean-Nicolas Meo's fresh and vibrant 94 pt. 2019 Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir l'Ensemble is a harmonious, terroir-expressive blend of exceptional Pinot Noir crafted by a masterful Burgundy winemaker and structured to continue to evolve in the glass and in the cellar, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy an elegant and finessed Burgundy-style Pinot Noir at a seriously non-Burgundy price. | ||
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| 2021 Clos Apalta (750ml) | ||
| Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "So balanced that you could drink it now but it will age for decades" James Suckling Reflecting a record of astounding consistency including garnering the coveted #1 spot on the Wine Spectator's Top 100, the powerful 100 pt. 2021 Clos Apalta reveals gorgeous aromatics of rich, dark concentrated fruit with impressive depth and flawless balance on a lingering, silky finish, a pinnacle of Chilean wine making standing shoulder to shoulder with the world's greatest red wines and an outstanding value for collectors of age worthy red wines. Perched on a steep hillside northeast of Santa Cruz, the stunning architecture of the Clos Apalta winery is marked by massive slats of Chile's native red-toned rauli wood resembling barrel staves stretching over two stories high, its gravity-fed winery below comprised of seven underground floors descending over 100 feet into solid granite. Arriving in the Colchagua Valley in 1994, French Grand Marnier heiress Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet hired renowned French oenologist Michel Rolland to lead the construction of their Bordeaux-style estate, restoring its century old vineyards of Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon and tapping their son Charles-Henri de Bournet to take over as CEO in 2013. Boasting a distinct micro-climate that creates optimal conditions for ripening while maintaining the grapes' freshness and acidity, the estate's 53-hectare horseshoe shaped vineyard is located at the entrance of the Apalta Valley, its oldest vines from stocks imported from France dating back to 1907 and enjoying the natural protection of the Tinguiririca River and the Andes foothills from extreme heat. Blending 75% Carmenere, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot, winemaker Andrea Leon aged the refined 2021 Clos Apalta for 21 months in 78% new French oak and the remainder in second use barrels before bottling without filtering or fining, yielding a rich, harmonious blend of "exceptionally good quality" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson with "a weightless structure that shows class and verve" according to James Suckling. Described by Joaquin Hidalgo of Vinous as "one of those rare Chilean wines that reliably showcases the characteristics of each vintage while maintaining a consistent house style," the elegant 100 pt. 2021 Clos Apalta boasts a fresh, vineyard expressive character from a cooler growing season crafted in the estate's powerful signature style, a delicious Bordeaux-inspired blend reflecting its exceptional Chilean terroir that promises savvy collectors over two decades of pleasurable drinking. | ||
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| 2011 Vinedos de Paganos El Puntido Gran Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A hidden-gem Rioja collectible typically only well-known by insiders and collectors, the single-vineyard El Puntido Gran Reserva is the kind of terroir-specific wine that is growing more prominent in this classic Spanish wine region. Entirely Tempranillo from a small, high-elevation plot of 60-year-old vines in the Páganos village of Rioja Alavesa, the 2011 is just entering a long prime drinking window. "I love its overall balance, mid-palate depth, and length, and it's drinking brilliantly today, with another decade or more of overall longevity." - Jeb Dunnuck James Suckling likewise describes it in his 95-point review as "full-bodied, extremely integrated and polished [with] a super long finish." The vineyard's elevation, combined with an extremely unique ambient yeast only present in one other vineyard in Rioja, give the warm-vintage 2011 rendition a fascinating underlying freshness that's seldom found among its comtemporaries. Whether you're a fan of Rioja or just a savvy collector of the world's best small-production, terroir-driven expressions, the 2011 El Puntido is perfectly poised to shine in your glass tonight or anytime over the next 10 to 15 years. | ||
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| The Macallan Harmony Collection Intense Arabica Single Malt Scotch (750ml) | ||
| From Craigellachie, Speyside, Scotland | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More What better way to kick off the renaissance of our spirits email offers than a triple feature from the most famous name in single malt Scotch? Macallan is the undisputed standard bearer for Highland whisky, and their limited-release bottlings are always hot commodities among collectors. The trio on offer today represent everything that the distillery's legions of hardcore fans know and love - singular Highland character paired with unmatched luxury from the most desirable name in collectible Scotch. Leading off, we have the newly arrived A Night on Earth Jerez de la Fronterra, the third release in the Night on Earth series, celebrating the distillery's heritage as a visionary leader in sherry-aged Scotch as well as the vibrant cultural Jerez touchstone of Nochevieja, the region's traditional New Year's Eve festival. Aged in top-tier European and American oak cooperage, Night on Earth Jerez is the perfect combination of the classic Macallan Highland profile and full-on sherry influence for a truly memorable limited release. Macallan fans will also know the pair of Harmony Collection releases as two of the most sought-after in recent years from the venerable distillery. The Intense Arabica and Amber Meadow fully live up to their names in their respective profiles, delivering one-of-a-kind expressions that are also pure Macallan at heart. Best of all, in anticipation of the newest forthcoming release, we're offering both renditions at limited-time pricing that's the best in you'll find in the Florida market, so Macallan fans will want to strike quickly on a rare opportunity at a collectible trifecta. | ||
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| Redwood Empire Pipe Dream Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Sonoma County, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you're looking for a new range of expertly crafted, boutique American whiskies to enjoy, look far to the west, all the way to the edge of the continent. There, in Sonoma County, you'll find Redwood Empire. This small-production distillery is a paragon of forward thinking and vision. Using a variety of mashbills and unconventional blends of different mashbills, Redwood Empire turns out thrilling releases, each named for an iconic California coastal redwood tree and each offering a highy distinctive profile, which gives the ardent whiskey fan a prime opportuntiy for exploration and discovery. From small production quotas (only four barrels a day) to innovative sustainability practices to their grain-to-glass ethos, they're initimately tied to their surroundings. The distillery's consistent upward trajectory is borne out in a bevy of excellent recent press puts the spotlight on a must-try line-up unlike any other in the category. Whether it's a classic bourbon profile you're looking for or a high-rye powerhouse, or a unique blend of the two different styles for that matter, you'll find it here. | ||
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| 2020 Stolpman Vineyards L'Avion Roussanne (750ml) | ||
| Roussanne from Santa Ynez Valley, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declared "one of the reference-point estates in Ballard Canyon" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, these highly rated, site specific wines from Stolpman Vineyards deliver superb quality at an astonishing price. Establishing their reputation as pioneering growers in California's Ballard Canyon and selling their fruit to cult producers like Sine Qua Non, second-generation Pete Stolpman along with esteemed vineyard manager Ruben Solorzano now craft the outstanding Stolpman portfolio from their 150 acres of estate vineyards planted over three distinct limestone ridges in Santa Barbara County, yielding vibrant, complex and impeccably balanced wines ranging from entry level offerings to top estate cuvees. Described as "a total charmer" and "a ridiculous value" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the 93 pt. 2021 La Cuadrilla is a rich blend dominated by estate grown Syrah with proceeds benefiting Solorzano's dedicated La Cuadrilla vineyard crew. Stolpman's white wines include the richly textured 97 pt. 2020 L'Avion Roussanne named "one of the stars" of the outstanding 2020 vintage by the Wine Advocate's Erin Brooks, reminiscent of the Northern Rhone's great white wines at a fraction of the cost. Stolpman's most unique wines include the savory, dark-fruited 96 pt. 2020 Hair of the Bear, a combination of co-fermented Petite Sirah and Roussanne that's "magical" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Matt Kettman. Based on old vine fruit planted by founder Tom Stolpman, the 96 pt. 2020 Sangiovese offers "layered flavors and loads of juicy appeal" according to the Wine Advocate's Erin Brooks, an homage to Tuscany's revered grape crafted by winemaker Kyle Knapp in a ripe California style. Inspired by his love of Northern Rhone wines, Tom Stolpman's Syrah plantings are the oldest in the Ballard Canyon AVA is the full-bodied 94 pt. 2020 Angeli Cuvee is sourced from the estate's oldest own-rooted Syrah, described as a "pure, downright vibrant wine" by Jeb Dunnuck. Boasting 90 plus point ratings across their portfolio, these selections from Ballard Canyon's iconic Stolpman Vineyards are garnering well deserved attention from critics across the board, challenging its under the radar status and making now the best time to mix a case or two of these top rated and top value Santa Barbara beauties and take advantage of this exceptional pricing | ||
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| 2017 Domaine La Soumade Cuvee Confiance (1.5L) | ||
| Grenache from Rasteau, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Located on steep, south-facing slopes and mostly clay soils, Rasteau produces deep, concentrated wines that have distinct minerality to go with savory, chocolaty, earthy aromatics. While most drink well on release, the best can easily keep for 10-15 years. It’s worth pointing out that while the region was known in the past for making more rustic, alcoholic wines, that’s no longer the case, and the wines today show much more polish, elegance, and balance. The top wines are a match for anything coming out of the Southern Rhône Valley today." Dunnuck designates the top seven domaines of Rasteau, La Soumade among them along with three other properites we work with. Don't miss Fleur de Confiance that Wine Advocate writer Joe Czerwinski declared "the most impressive Rasteau to have ever passed these lips." | ||
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| 2021 Quintessa Proprietary Red (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More What happens when you combine one of Napa's great modern vintages and one of its most beloved cult collectible icons? Pure perfection, also known as the 2021 Quintessa Proprietary Red. This towering expression of a Napa standard bearer has racked up one superlative after another in the critical sphere, led by a 100-point mark from Wine Enthusiast. "An exquisite wine ... refined, detailed and delicious, with as much elegance as energy." - Wine Enthusiast Augustin Huneeus' superb estate just off the Silverado Trail in Rutherford is perfectly suited to spectacular Cabernet Sauvignon wines, and the Proprietary Red blend is always a ringing testament to the Rutherford AVA's singular style. Adding icing to the cake, the now benchmark 2021 vintage gave the winemaking team virtually perfect raw materials from which to craft this legend in the making. Backing up that triple-digit score, the 2021 also boasts near-perfect praise from James Suckling, Jeb Dunnuck, and Decanter, further affirming it as "another gorgeous wine" and one of the top cellar-worthy buys of the 2021 Napa campaign. As if you needed any more convincing, we've also sourced this parcel at an unheard-of price that you won't find anywhere else in the country, so best make room for a new centerpiece in the California section of your cellar, as you're going to want to stack this one in multiples. | ||
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| 2019 Domaine de Montille En Champans 1er Cru (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Volnay, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Boasting fresh, lively fruit and balanced acidity, these spectacular 2019 Domaine de Montille Burgundies come from a vintage that "hit the bullseye" according to critic James Suckling, offering a "rare combination of excellence and great consistency." Benefiting from our long-standing relationship with the Domaine, this part two of our exclusive Domaine de Montille offering features Burgundies from the estate's vineyards heading south from Volnay through the Cote d'Or to Saint Aubin, ranging from a value-packed entry level Red Burgundy to a vast array of exquisite Premier and Grand Cru Whites, all exceptional wines offering outstanding value, many offered in large format perfect for cellaring. Now considered a pioneer in the region for being among the first to estate bottle his wines and craft ageworthy Burgundy with a sense of place, Hubert de Montille took over his family's estate at the age of 17 in 1947 after it had dwindled to only 2.5 hectares and set about rebuilding the domaine's holdings while establishing a stellar reputation. Taking the reins after his father's 50-year tenure, Hubert's son Etienne was among the first in the region to convert to organic and then biodynamic practices, while continuing to expand the estate with the acquisition of some of Burgundy's most highly regarded vineyards, including those of Chateau de Puligny-Montrachet in 2012. Now with 35 hectares of holdings spanning an astounding 20 separate top appellations throughout the region, Domaine de Montille's top Chardonnay parcels south of Volnay include Puligny Folatières, a premier cru with two prestigious neighbors, Leflaive and Leroy, the rock-covered Meursault Poruzots next to the famous "Les Genevrières" vineyard and Saint Aubin En Remilly, located just behind the revered Grand Cru Le Montrachet. Crediting the influence of his brother-in-law, the masterful Meursault winemaker Jean Marc Roulot, Etienne employs a restrained use of new oak for the whites depending on the specific plots, aging for up to a year on the lees and preserving the acidic backbone while crafting complex, balanced wines that will evolve over decades. From the exceptional 2019 Bourgogne Blanc "Clos du Chateau," boasting the rich profile of Puligny Montrachet at a fraction of the price, to the magnificent 2019 Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru, an ultimate expression of refined, long-lived Chardonnay from a tiny .23 hectare parcel, and including one Red Burgundy, the bright and energetic 2019 Bourgogne Rouge, these selections from Domaine de Montille rank among the top in the region, superbly expressing each terroir with alluring freshness and elegant length. Produced in a vintage with significantly lower yields guaranteeing excess demand, now is the time to secure your allocation of these magnificent 2019 Burgundies today and look forward to enjoying them for years to come. | ||
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| The Macallan A Night On Earth In Jerez de la Frontera Single Malt Scotch (750ml) | ||
| From Craigellachie, Speyside, Scotland | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More What better way to kick off the renaissance of our spirits email offers than a triple feature from the most famous name in single malt Scotch? Macallan is the undisputed standard bearer for Highland whisky, and their limited-release bottlings are always hot commodities among collectors. The trio on offer today represent everything that the distillery's legions of hardcore fans know and love - singular Highland character paired with unmatched luxury from the most desirable name in collectible Scotch. Leading off, we have the newly arrived A Night on Earth Jerez de la Fronterra, the third release in the Night on Earth series, celebrating the distillery's heritage as a visionary leader in sherry-aged Scotch as well as the vibrant cultural Jerez touchstone of Nochevieja, the region's traditional New Year's Eve festival. Aged in top-tier European and American oak cooperage, Night on Earth Jerez is the perfect combination of the classic Macallan Highland profile and full-on sherry influence for a truly memorable limited release. Macallan fans will also know the pair of Harmony Collection releases as two of the most sought-after in recent years from the venerable distillery. The Intense Arabica and Amber Meadow fully live up to their names in their respective profiles, delivering one-of-a-kind expressions that are also pure Macallan at heart. Best of all, in anticipation of the newest forthcoming release, we're offering both renditions at limited-time pricing that's the best in you'll find in the Florida market, so Macallan fans will want to strike quickly on a rare opportunity at a collectible trifecta. | ||
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| Casa Dragones Joven Tequila (750ml) | ||
| From Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Estate Grown Tequila? You bet! Hey, Tequila comes from a specific place and the agave plant is treated with as much reverence as vines in Burgundy, Bordeaux or Napa Valley. Jalisco is the Mexican state where Tequila comes from, and the agave plant thirsts for the trinity of soil, climate and altitude found here. Casa Dragones takes the pureness of flavor a blanco has and adds a small amount of extra añejo to round out the palate, producing what the Robb Report called "the greatest single sipping tequila," this crystal clear potion they call "Joven." Drinkers of fine whiskey the world over should take notice here, tequila delivers some of the world's most flavorful and palate-pleasing spirits. | ||
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| 2018 Enzo Boglietti Barolo Arione (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described by the Wine Advocate as crafting "some of the richest, most deeply flavored Barolos in Piedmont,", this selection of highly rated Cru Barolos from Enzo Boglietti rank among the Piedmont's top bargains, each sourced from small family-owned parcels spread across Barolo's top Cru's and all promising to age over the next decade or more at an incredible value price. Ending his family's decades' long practice of selling grapes to the local coop, Enzo Boglietti established his La Morra winery with 3 hectares of vineyards in 1991, counted among the group of rebellious young winemakers at the time producing a more modern style Barolo crafted to be immediately accessible. Over the years Enzo has moderated his approach, limiting the use of new French oak barriques and reducing extraction times during fermentation to produce elegantly styled, site expressive Barolos from some of the region's top Crus, his vineyards now spanning 20 hectares across the Langhe. Described by James Suckling as "clean and fresh", the appealing 92 pt. 2018 Enzo Boglietti Boiolo is sourced from a 1.95 hectare parcel at 300-350 meters above sea level on the northern border of Rocche dell'Annunziata, while the aromatic 94 pt. 2016 Enzo Boglietti Fossati expresses the typical character of the Fossati cru with floral aromatics and balsamic nuances, summed up by the Wine Spectator's Bruce Sanderson as "graceful yet packs a punch." From the warmer, protected Cru situated between the upper portion of Fossati and Cerequio, James Suckling calls the 96 pt. 2015 Enzo Boglietti Case Nere "impressively refined" while describing the 95 pt. 2016 Enzo Boglietti Brunate as "fullbodied" and finishing "tight, dense and long," sourced from a tiny half hectare Brunate parcel known for producing elegant, silky Barolo with deep complexity. From the southernmost Cru in Serralunga that exhibits a "distinctly wild, feral quality strong on iron and mineral" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the refined 95 pt. 2018 Enzo Boglietti Barolo Arione is his most "pinot-like" Barolo according to Enzo, while the 94 pt. 2018 Enzo Boglietti Brunate delivers Brunate's legendary combination of elegance and power "balanced by juicy, acidity" according to the Wine Independent's Susan Hulme with "a lovely fresh finish." Described as "a young producer on the rise" crafting "sumptuous Barolos" by critic Antonio Galloni over a decade ago, these elegantly crafted Cru Barolo selections from Enzo Boglietti overdeliver in a big way, priced at a mere fraction of his competitors and offering a terrific opportunity to mix a case and enjoy Boglietti's full range of top scoring Cru Barolo reflecting the region's diverse terroirs for years to come. | ||
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| Knob Creek Bourbon X Rye Blended Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Clermont, Kentucky | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More It's the most anticipated time of year for whisky fanatics as Whisky Advocate comes out with its annual Top 20 Whiskies of the Year list. Yesterday's reveal of the full list completes a week of excitement for collectors and buyers alike, as we see which of our favorites made the cut. So, it's a great thrill for us to feature six of the top contenders on the list today, including the collectible trophy Bruichladdich 18 Year Old at the #2 spot and the simply stunning Lagavulin "The Ink of Legends" 12 Year Old Special Release Single Malt, which landed in the #3 spot for its thrilling expression of hallmark Lagavulin peated malt finished in Don Julio Anejo tequila casks. Heaven Hill's innovative Grain to Glass series rounds out the top five with the 6 Year Old Straight Bourbon, and a trio of insider's favorites all make an appearance as well. Ardbeg's The Spectacular takes the well-known and loved peat monster proflie of this famous single malt and rounds it out in balanced luxury with finishing in ruby port piples, a first for the distillery. Finally, a pair of Kentucky stalwarts do the Bluegrass State proud. Knob Creek's Bourbon x Rye is an expert blend that captures the best of both categories in one bottle, and 2XO's The Kiawah Blend shows the masterful blending skill of one Dixon Dedman, the genius behind the cult phenom bourbons of Kentucky Owl, and it's available at a market-best price, no less. If you're looking for the perfect holiday gift for the whisky enthusiast in your life (or if you are that whisky enthusiast), these are can't-miss winners that have just seen their cachet rise in remarkable fashion. Don't miss out on the chance to own a piece or three of whisky royalty. | ||
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| 2020 Domaine Giraud Galimardes Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Domaine Giraud is a relative newcomer in the Southern Rhone, crafting its first wine in 1974 from 4 hectares of rented vines and producing its first estate cuvee in 1998 under second generation siblings Marie and Francois Giraud. Spanning over 17 hectares spread over 64 separate parcels across the appellation, Giraud's estate owned vineyards are planted with vines averaging 60-80 years of age in a diverse mix of pebble, sand, clay, and limestone soils, each parcel farmed organically with minimal treatments and managed manually from harvesting to sorting. Sourced primarily from old-vine Grenache including parcels in Les Gallimardes and La Crau, the elegant 2020 Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tradition Rouge is a blend of 80% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre aged for 18 months in cement vats and 15% Syrah matured in used Bordeaux barriques and bottled without filtering or fining, crafted in a vineyard-driven style with "relatively simple, unadorned winemaking" according to Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski with fine-grained tannins that frame the intense, luscious fruit and predict a long and satisfying evolution in the cellar. A small-production cuvee that wasn't produced at all in 2021 due to frost damage, the enticing 95-point 2020 Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Gallimardes Rouge comes from a terroir-expressive vintage "producing athletic, elegant wines of intensity and panache" according to Decanter's Matt Walls, an under-the-radar gem priced far below the region's higher profile estates and expertly crafted to reward savvy collectors with over a decade of pleasurable drinking ahead. | ||
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| 2021 Wayfarer Estate Pinot Noir Fort Ross-Seaview (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Sonoma, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From an outstanding vintage for fans and collectors of California Pinot Noir, these top rated 2021 selections offer a comprehensive range of styles matching an array of individual tastes, all value priced for stocking up on a favorite and perfect for mixing a case. Regardless of which microclimate it hails from, Pinot Noir in the Sonoma Coast AVA enjoyed consistently moderate growing conditions in 2021, with warm weather in the early part of the year kicking off the growing season early. The summer was marked by cool temperatures and dry conditions without prolonged heat spikes that yielded even ripening with extended hangtime and steady yields. Calling the 2021 Sonoma Coast Pinots "fabulous," Antonio Galloni of Vinous describes them as "potent, brooding wines with dark fruit profiles and tons of textural depth" their deep structure and superb balance promising longevity. Situated about 350 miles south of Sonoma's Russian River Valley, the Central Coast also enjoyed a cooler growing season in 2021, described by Jeb Dunnuck as an "undeniably great vintage" that "will be loved by those who prioritize finesse and elegance." Experiencing a long even growing season without any heat spikes, dry conditions in the Central Coast required a judicious use of irrigation in 2021 that produced healthy fruit but smaller yields, the top talent in the region producing rich and age worthy Pinot. Jeb Dunnuck describes the 2021 Central Coast Pinots as "fresh, vibrant, yet concentrated wines with the up-front purity and charm to drink well today, yet the structure and depth to age gracefully," while Antonio Galloni of Vinous declared the favorable conditions produced "a wide range of exceptional, world-class wines." Summing up the 2021 vintage for California Pinot, the Wine Spectator's Aaron Romano declares "2021 has all the makings of a banner year for California, especially for Pinot Noir. There were no extreme heatwaves and yields were slightly lower than average, which has translated into reds with expressive fruit character and natural vibrancy," these impressive 2021 Cali Pinot Noir selections showcasing a range of styles offered at value pricing to enjoy now and over the next decades. | ||
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| 2022 Vieux Donjon Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Vieux Donjon's unblemished reputation for quintessential Châteauneuf class is on full display in the triumphant 2022 rendition. With rock-solid accolades from across the critical landscape, the 2022 once again reaffirms the estate's place as one of the most consistent sources of bang-for-the-buck excellence in the entire appellation. "This is a brilliant wine that's already drinking well but will evolve gracefully over the next 15-20 years."- Jeb Dunnuck Whereas some vintages of this old-school standard bearer require several years to reach approachability, the 2022 offers the best of both worlds, with an already enchanting profile that exudes youthful purity and panache while maintaining "classic Châteauneuf richness that shows good balance and energy" according to Wine Spectator. We just secured this parcel at a jaw-dropping price that beats the rest of the market by a wide margin, so fans of the estate and avid Châteauneuf collectors can swing for the fences and stock the cellar high and deep with one of the smartest buys of the vintage. | ||
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| Redwood Empire Emerald Giant Cask Strength Rye Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Sonoma County, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you're looking for a new range of expertly crafted, boutique American whiskies to enjoy, look far to the west, all the way to the edge of the continent. There, in Sonoma County, you'll find Redwood Empire. This small-production distillery is a paragon of forward thinking and vision. Using a variety of mashbills and unconventional blends of different mashbills, Redwood Empire turns out thrilling releases, each named for an iconic California coastal redwood tree and each offering a highy distinctive profile, which gives the ardent whiskey fan a prime opportuntiy for exploration and discovery. From small production quotas (only four barrels a day) to innovative sustainability practices to their grain-to-glass ethos, they're initimately tied to their surroundings. The distillery's consistent upward trajectory is borne out in a bevy of excellent recent press puts the spotlight on a must-try line-up unlike any other in the category. Whether it's a classic bourbon profile you're looking for or a high-rye powerhouse, or a unique blend of the two different styles for that matter, you'll find it here. | ||
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| 2020 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Les Trois Sources (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More An impressive, limited production CDP lauded by critics and coveted by Rhone enthusiasts, the richly textured 97 pt. 2020 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Les Hauts Lieux reveals powerful, mineral-tinged aromas and fresh layered fruit matched by fine acidity, its firm, muscular tannins built to evolve over the next decade - simply a brilliant Chateauneuf du Pape that collectors will want to reserve a spot for in their cellars. Located at the northeastern corner of the Chateauneuf du Pape AOC, Domaine de la Vieille Julienne has been owned by the Daumen family since 1905, its highly rated Southern Rhone blends crafted by talented fifth generation winemaker Jean-Paul Daumen for the last three decades. One of the first estates in the region to convert to biodynamic practices under Jean-Paul, the domain farms 15 hectares in the Chateauneuf du Pape AOC, a single contiguous north-facing vineyard sheltered from the extreme heat and planted with mostly Grenache in a mosaic of limestone and quartz soils in the Mont Redon lieu-dit. While some of the estate's Grenache are over 100 years of age, winemaker Daumen focuses his cuvees on specific terroirs rather than the age of the vines, the Les Hauts Lieux cuvee a field blend of hand harvested grapes grown at the highest elevation, blended together parcel by parcel from vines averaging 70 years of age. Employing what he calls "severe" selection while dramatically limiting yields, Daumen co-fermented the blended grapes with natural yeasts in cement tanks, then aged the 2020 Les Hauts Lieux CDP in large oak foudres for 18 months, bottling without fining or filtering with additional time in the cellar to yield rich concentration and superb depth. Consistently garnering critical praise including a spot on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2020, the Wine Advocate declared, "Jean-Paul Daumen continues to fashion some of the top wines of the vintage, in just about every vintage" - the elegant 97 pt. 2020 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Les Hauts Lieux offering an outstanding opportunity for collectors and fans of the finest Chateauneuf du Pape rouge to stock the cellar with this meticulously crafted, hard to acquire gem at an unheard of price. | ||
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