| 2020 Ramirez de la Piscina Crianza (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Rich, fruity and expressive ... Weighty yet well-balanced with texture." - Decanter As dominant as Rioja is in the Spanish collectible space, its penchant for delivering outstanding everyday values is also unmatched. The latest entry proving the point is Ramirez de la Piscina's charming 2020 Crianza, a rock-solid performer for an easy case-buy price. Two of the characteristics that make Crianza Rioja such a powerhouse category in the everyday price is tier are the reliably enjoyable, approachable fruit profile and the bright, refreshing balance, both of which this 2020 displays in spades. Whether you're a fan of Rioja or just looking for a new candidate to add to your everyday/crowd-pleaser rotations, you can rest assured you've found it in this artfully crafted rendition. | ||
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| 2023 Domaine Gadais Pere et Fils Domaine de la Tourmaline Muscadet (750ml) | ||
| Melon de Bourgogne from Muscadet Sevre et Maine, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Loire wine scene is the sheer treasure trove of over-performing values to be found nearly everywhere you look up and down the valley. True insiders know the first place to go to maximize the value of your dollar is Muscadet Sèvre et Maine at the far western end of the Loire. Made strictly from the Mélon de Bourgogne grape, these wines are well-known for their racy acidity and vibrant mineral character, accentuated by the cool maritime climate and balanced by textural richness thanks to aging on the fine lees. Based on those qualities, you might think these are ideal pairings for seafood, and you'd be right. Have some top-notch oysters but don't want to splash out for Champagne? Muscadet is your answer! This trio from the reference-point Domaine Gadais is exemplary of what the category offers white wine lovers – beautifully crafted, pure terroir expressions, glowing critical praise, and must-see pricing that invites stocking up by the case. And the best part? Each wine is emblematic of Muscadet's famed age-worthy potential, putting them among the sharpest cellar buys anywhere in the world. | ||
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| 2022 Bodegas Muga Anden (750ml) | ||
| From Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As a bastion of collectible Rioja, Bodegas Muga produces many of the region's most acclaimed and sought-after collectibles, but their extensive history of reference-point quality extends throughout their line-up, all the way into their entry-level, everyday value standouts. The 2022 Muga Andén de la Estanción, a blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha, is a classic bang-for-the-buck Spanish red. "Serious despite being approachable," as Wine Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez describes it, the 2022 Andén is a hallmark representaiton of what Rioja does best at the value end of the spectrum. With the vibrant, fresh red fruit character of Tempranillo, touches of spice from the Garnacha, and a pliant, tensile structural base, it's tailor-made for versatility and pleasure, a food-friendly performer and crowd-pleaser par excellence that's easy on the palate and the wallet. | ||
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| 2023 Domaine Gadais Muscadet Peninsula Vieilles Vignes (750ml) | ||
| Melon de Bourgogne from Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Loire wine scene is the sheer treasure trove of over-performing values to be found nearly everywhere you look up and down the valley. True insiders know the first place to go to maximize the value of your dollar is Muscadet Sèvre et Maine at the far western end of the Loire. Made strictly from the Mélon de Bourgogne grape, these wines are well-known for their racy acidity and vibrant mineral character, accentuated by the cool maritime climate and balanced by textural richness thanks to aging on the fine lees. Based on those qualities, you might think these are ideal pairings for seafood, and you'd be right. Have some top-notch oysters but don't want to splash out for Champagne? Muscadet is your answer! This trio from the reference-point Domaine Gadais is exemplary of what the category offers white wine lovers – beautifully crafted, pure terroir expressions, glowing critical praise, and must-see pricing that invites stocking up by the case. And the best part? Each wine is emblematic of Muscadet's famed age-worthy potential, putting them among the sharpest cellar buys anywhere in the world. | ||
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| 2016 Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Tinto Crianza (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The López de Heredia new releases are always some of the anticipated of the year, and kicking off this round, we have the standard bearer for Crianza Rioja, from a stellar vintage to boot. "The 2016 Viña Cubillo Tinto Crianza was surprising, spectacular, elegant, clean and fresh like few vintages before." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Racking up three 94-point scores, the 2016 Cubillo is a jaw-dropping performer in its category. The vineyard itself is a true gem, capable of producing at the Gran Reserva level, but winemaker Mercedes López de Heredia insists on making the Crianza because it's just that important to their entire range. The lovely 2016 vintage gave the estate everything they were looking for – "quality, quantity and freshness" as Gutiérrez notes – and the resulting wine checks every box. "Firm and juicy with a vibrant core" according to Joaquin Hidalgo of Vinous, the 2016 offers fans of the estate a prime example of LdH's traditional Rioja style, and our private client price, which is far too low to publish online, offers you the opportunity to stock up big, so you can enjoy this best-in-class stunner time and time again for years to come. | ||
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| 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo (750ml) | ||
| Verdejo from Segovia, Castilla y Leon, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "A fresh, medium-bodied white ... Bright and well-integrated, with a lasting, lively finish." - Wine Spectator Crafted from some of Spain's oldest vineyards in Castilla y Leon, the crisp and enticing, 92-point 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo offers richly aromatic fruit with subtle minerality and vibrant acidity on a silky, mouthwatering finish, a delicious Spanish white with layered complexity value priced for stocking the cooler to enjoy often over the next few years. Known for producing "rounder, more serious and minerally expressions of Verdejo" according to James Suckling, Ossian Vides y Vinos was established in the village of Nieva northwest of Madrid in 2005 to explore the winemaking potential of Segovia's extremely old Verdejo vines, the region's sandy soils helping to keep phylloxera bay while it ravaged other areas of Spain at the turn of the 20th century. Situated within the boundaries of the Rueda appellation, Ossian's organically farmed vineyards span over 110 hectares, of which 50 hectares are planted with ungrafted, pre-phylloxera vines ranging up to 160 years of age on the Voltoya River terraces between 840 and 930 meters above sea level, enjoying warm sunny days and cooler nighttime temperatures that enhance concentration and preserve acidity. Sourced from various plots in 5 different villages of Segovia comprised of 60% pre-Phylloxera and 40% younger vines and fermented with indigenous yeasts, the refined 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo was aged for nine months on the lees in a mix of stainless steel tanks and French foudres, yielding a rich and layered Verdejo that's "bright and well-integrated" according to Wine Spectator's Alison Napjus "with a lasting, lively finish." From a region known for producing "a bright, refreshing pour that delivers bang for the buck" according to Wine Enthusiast's Mike DeSimone, the appealing 92-point 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo boasts the upfront appeal of fresh, vibrant Verdejo with the layered complexity of old vine fruit, a delicious, richly textured Verdejo delivering outstanding value. | ||
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| 2020 Ramirez de la Piscina Seleccion Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...there's a compact feel to this firm red but also a sense of balance and integration." - Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator As dominant as Rioja is in the Spanish collectible space, its penchant for delivering outstanding everyday values is also unmatched. The latest entry proving the point is Ramirez de la Piscina's charming 92-point 2020 Selección Reserva, a rock-solid performer for the cellar or the table at an easy case-buy price. The estate's style is purely reflective of the terroir in Ábalos and San Vicente de la Sonsierra, yielding wines of chalky finesse, refined tannins, and old-school complexity. For the Reserva, however, they take a decidedly New World approach in the oak regimen and fruit profile. James Suckling sums it up as "A dense and full-bodied Rioja ... Chewy and firm, with wood-soaked tannins, yet it doesn't overpower the rich dark berry and plum fruit." If you're a fan of Rioja, this is a razor-sharp buy to add to the cellar for future enjoyment, but it can also occupy a starring role in your regular rotation thanks to our must-see, sub-$20 price. | ||
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| 2022 Felsina Chianti Classico Berardenga (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous The iconic Fèlsina estate has been setting the bar for decades in the Castelnuovo Berardenga sub-zone of the Chianti Classico DOCG, not only for sheer quality and class but for stupendous value as well. Case in point is this overachieving Chianti Classico standout that James Suckling calls "a well-balanced, seductive and lively red." Its classic southern Chianti Sangiovese in its effusive fruit character that oscillates between bright reds and crunchy darks, all with vivid, fresh, Mediterranean herbal undertones providing lift and layers. The varying elevations and soil types of the vineyard sources ensures that the wine maintains its hallmark personality across vintages, so this "potent, super-classic Chianti Classico" is always one of the smartest, most consistently reliable buys in its price tier. | ||
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| 2023 Massolino Dolcetto d'Alba (750ml) | ||
| Dolcetto from Dolcetto d'Alba, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Massolino is another winery that has been on a roll of late. These new releases are stellar." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous One of Piedmont's leading lights, Massolino is a perennial standout among Piedmont fans for their super-refined, elegant house style. From the village wines to the single-cru expressions, you'll find captivating profiles that have won critical accolades year in and year out. We just sourced a must-see parcel of some of the estate's finest recent releases, showcasing the impeccable excellence that characterizes every bottle of Massolino. Leading off is the 2021 village Barbaresco, a blend from the Albesani, Starderi, and Serraboella crus. As Galloni explains, "Readers will find a super-classic Barbaresco [with] lifted aromatics, mid-weight structure and persistent yet fine tannins." The triple 95-point, "very impressive and detailed" 2021 Albesani Barbaresco takes things up a notch - "a super-classic wine that ... possesses notable structure and the understated depth that is common of Barbaresco" according to Galloni. Finally, Piedmont fans shouldn't overlook the other varietal gems in the Massolino stable, highlighted by their lovely, utterly charming 2023 Dolcetto and the 93-point 2021 Barbera Gisep, a blend of three parcels within the Barolo DOCG designation with more serious pedigree than is typically found in this "humble" Piedmont varietal. There's no doubt that Massolino should be on every Piedmont lover's short list, and these latest releases show one of the region's great estates at the top of their game. | ||
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| 2023 Stolpman Vineyards La Cuadrilla Ballard Canyon (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from Santa Barbara, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...one of the better values in all of California wine." - Matthew Luczy, Wine Advocate The long-awaited new release of this all-time B-21 best seller is here. Stolpman's La Cuadrilla has been a bona fide value champion for us for several vintages running, and it's basically cornered our market on sub-$20 California reds. A blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Sangiovese, this spectacular, "lights out" favorite has always brought its A-game big time, and that all continues apace in 2023. "Bright, punchy and full of character, the 2023 delivers superb quality and striking purity of fruit," notes Antonio Galloni. Made every year by the estate's vineyard workers, who then split the proceeds from sales, this is a true wine of community and collective effort and reward. There's not much else to say – if you're already fan, then make some room and stock up like you always do. The 2023 La Cuadrilla is ready to rock with stunning character and unbeatable value, just like it always has. | ||
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| 2022 Raymond Chardonnay Reserve Selection (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Reflecting its owner's commitment to producing authentic, terroir-driven wines, this dynamic duo from Raymond Vineyards are two of Napa Valley's top values, the enticing 92 pt. 2022 Raymond Chardonnay Reserve Selection and elegant 93 pt. 2021 Raymond Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Selection both sourced from exceptional Napa fruit at an outstanding price for stocking up. Known for his larger-than-life personality and flamboyant velvet jacket attire, Burgundy-born Jean-Charles Boisset is a true believer that great wines are made in the vineyard, and his first priority after purchasing Raymond Vineyards in 2009 was to upgrade the existing 90-acre property and implement organic and biodynamic viticulture. Established in Napa Valley over 50 years ago by long-time Beringer winemaker Roy Raymond, Raymond Vineyards now spans over 300 acres in Rutherford and St. Helena, the vineyards and winemaking managed under the direction of 100 pt. consulting winemaker Phillipe Melka since 2009. In addition to gaining organic and biodynamic certification for the vineyards and building one of Napa's largest solar panel projects to generate electricity for the winery, Boisset hired former Far Niente winemaker Stephanie Putnam to work alongside Melka to refine the blends, consistently garnering 90-plus points throughout her tenure. Expertly crafted from outstanding Napa fruit, this duo of top scoring Raymond Reserve Selections boast a winning combination of quality and value, both ready to enjoy now and promising pleasurable drinking for years ahead at an easy to reach for price. | ||
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| 2022 Raventos i Blanc Blanc de Blancs (750ml) | ||
| Xarel-lo from Catalonia, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Renowned as the benchmark for vineyard-driven sparkling wines in Spain, these impeccably crafted 93-point Raventos selections express their mineral-rich terroir in a fresh, elegant style, offering richly concentrated fruit with balanced acidity on a fine beaded mousse and delivering "unmatched value" according to the Wine Spectator's Keith Newton at unbeatable, best on the market pricing. Boasting a 500 year history stretching over 21 generations as growers in Catalonia, the Raventos family are pioneers of the Cava industry, producing the first bottle of Cava under the Cordoniu label in the late 1800's by applying the traditional method used to make Champagne to a blend of classic Penedes grape varieties. Selling their interest in Cordoniu in 1984 in response to a Cava's overall decline in quality and reputation, the Raventos family refocused on making vineyard-driven sparkling wines from their 90-hectare biodynamically farmed estate across from their old winery and established Raventós i Blanc in 1986, officially withdrawing from the Cava classification in 2012 while championing the creation of a new D.O. with higher standards. A blend of 49% Xarel·lo, 34% Macabeo and 12% Parellada with the addition of 5% old vine Monastrell to add complexity and enhance its rosy color, the Wine Spectator's Alison Napjus calls the lush 95 pt. 2022 Raventos i Blanc de Nit Rosado Brut Rose "a bright and harmonious sparkler" with "snappy acidity" and a refined, creamy texture resulting from extended less aging, its name translating as 'Of the Night' in Catalan in reference to the estate's cool evening harvest times considered optimal for preserving freshness. Sourced from vines averaging over 40 years of age and composed of 40% Xarel·lo, 39% Macabeu, 15% Parellada and 6% Malvasia de Sitges, the fresh and silky 93 pt. 2022 Raventos i Blanc Blanc de Blancs is a bright, aromatic sparkler with impeccable balance described as "pure, clean and pleasant" and declared "complex and expressive beyond its price point" by the Wine Advocate's Luis Gutierrez. Among "the finest and most elegant sparkling wines being made in Spain" according to Vinous critic Joaquin Hidalgo, this enticing 93 pt. duo from leading Spanish producer Raventos delivers incredible bang for the buck among its sparkling wine peers, bargain priced for mixing a case and a sure bet for sparkling wine lovers seeking to pop the cork more often. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Charvin Le Poutet (750ml) | ||
| From Côtes du Rhône, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "It is really like drinking a fine bottle of Châteauneuf du Pape at a fraction of the price!" - John Gilman, View From the Cellar There you have it. We'll get to the specifics momentarily, but Gilman sums up the 2022 Charvin Le Poutet as well as anything else we could possible say about it. When you consider that Charvin's 2022 Châteauneuf notched a whopping 98 points, it becomes clear that this "humble" Cotes-du-Rhone is anyhthing but. Sourced mainly from Grenache vines approaching 100 years old in a sandy plot just across the street from the Châteauneuf boundary line, the 2022 Le Poutet is a pristine example of Laurent Charvin's top-tier winemaking skills. "Try finding another Côtes-du-Rhône with this level of finesse, precision, and terroir signature," writes B-21 Rhône Buyer Andrew Kitz, "You'll be looking for a long time." Jeb Dunnuck likewise declares, "I love its overall balance, and it's medium-bodied, elegant, has fine, polished tannins, and outstanding length. It will shine for a solid decade." We've already seen the 2022 Châteauneuf fly out the door, which tells us that Chavin is still a name with serious cachet among Rhône fans, so we won't be surprised to see the same response to this spectacular overachiever at a price that makes it all too easy to go in big. | ||
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| 2022 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine (750ml) | ||
| Zinfandel from California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described as "an absolute delight" by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the alluring 93 pt. 2022 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine reveals fresh, aromatic brambly red fruit layered with juicy acidity and integrated, firm tannins, sourced from some of California's most iconic old vine vineyards and a top value bargain-priced for Zinfandel lovers to enjoy often. Established in 2007 by the son of Ravenswood founding winemaker Joel Peterson, Bedrock Wine Company's Morgan Twain-Peterson and long-time business partner Chris Cottrell craft their wines from a who's who list of the region's most historic vineyards, sourcing the old vine Zinfandel from centuries' old sites throughout Sonoma and Contra Costa counties including the Peterson's own Bedrock Vineyard. Described by Antonio Galloni as "among the most pedigreed vineyard sites anywhere in the world," Bedrock was the first California vineyard to be replanted in 1888 following the devastation of phylloxera, boasting a Zinfandel-dominated field mix planted in volcanic rocks and cobbly loam soil and farmed organically by the Petersons without irrigation. Blending 85% Zinfandel with 7% Carignan, 4% Cinsault and small amounts of other varieties averaging 80 years of age and fermenting with native yeasts, Morgan aged the lush 2022 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine in a combination of French oak and Austrian oak puncheons and foudres with about 10% new, yielding a fresh and delicately spiced Zinfandel with layered fine tannins that's ready to enjoy and will continue to mature gracefully over the next few years. Crafted by "one of the most talented winemakers of his generation" according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the impressive 93 pt. 2022 Bedrock Zinfandel Old Vine is blended from many of the iconic sites that go into Bedrock's single vineyard Zins at a fraction of their price, delivering a transparent expression of rich, old vine Zinfandel at an unbeatable value price. | ||
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| 2021 Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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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." | ||
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| 2022 Raventos i Blanc de Nit Rosado Brut Rose (750ml) | ||
| Macabeo from Catalonia, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Renowned as the benchmark for vineyard-driven sparkling wines in Spain, these impeccably crafted 93-point Raventos selections express their mineral-rich terroir in a fresh, elegant style, offering richly concentrated fruit with balanced acidity on a fine beaded mousse and delivering "unmatched value" according to the Wine Spectator's Keith Newton at unbeatable, best on the market pricing. Boasting a 500 year history stretching over 21 generations as growers in Catalonia, the Raventos family are pioneers of the Cava industry, producing the first bottle of Cava under the Cordoniu label in the late 1800's by applying the traditional method used to make Champagne to a blend of classic Penedes grape varieties. Selling their interest in Cordoniu in 1984 in response to a Cava's overall decline in quality and reputation, the Raventos family refocused on making vineyard-driven sparkling wines from their 90-hectare biodynamically farmed estate across from their old winery and established Raventós i Blanc in 1986, officially withdrawing from the Cava classification in 2012 while championing the creation of a new D.O. with higher standards. A blend of 49% Xarel·lo, 34% Macabeo and 12% Parellada with the addition of 5% old vine Monastrell to add complexity and enhance its rosy color, the Wine Spectator's Alison Napjus calls the lush 95 pt. 2022 Raventos i Blanc de Nit Rosado Brut Rose "a bright and harmonious sparkler" with "snappy acidity" and a refined, creamy texture resulting from extended less aging, its name translating as 'Of the Night' in Catalan in reference to the estate's cool evening harvest times considered optimal for preserving freshness. Sourced from vines averaging over 40 years of age and composed of 40% Xarel·lo, 39% Macabeu, 15% Parellada and 6% Malvasia de Sitges, the fresh and silky 93 pt. 2022 Raventos i Blanc Blanc de Blancs is a bright, aromatic sparkler with impeccable balance described as "pure, clean and pleasant" and declared "complex and expressive beyond its price point" by the Wine Advocate's Luis Gutierrez. Among "the finest and most elegant sparkling wines being made in Spain" according to Vinous critic Joaquin Hidalgo, this enticing 93 pt. duo from leading Spanish producer Raventos delivers incredible bang for the buck among its sparkling wine peers, bargain priced for mixing a case and a sure bet for sparkling wine lovers seeking to pop the cork more often. | ||
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| 2023 Produttori del Barbaresco Nebbiolo delle Langhe (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Langhe, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "While not as dense as some vintages, it is a vibrant and boisterous mid-weight mouthful." - Decanter What La Chablisiènne is to Burgundy, Produttori del Barbaresco is to Piedmont (and Italy overall) –the undisputed standard bearer for excellence in a wine co-operative. This legendary producer has been setting the tone for Barbaresco for decades, turning out vintage after vintage of reference-point, collectible expressions from their incredible stable of prized crus. Of course, we're eagerly awaiting the release of the inimitable, single-vineyard Riservas from the monumental 2021 vintage, but we're also getting a glimpse of another special vintage on the horizon in the 2023 Langhe Nebbiolo, a superb "Baby Barbaresco" if ever there was one. Sourced exclusively from Barbaresco-designated sites, this is a lovely representation of a solid vintage for the region, offering fans of the old-school Barbarescos something to dive into while they wait for the collectible gems to come of age. Kerin O'Keefe calls it "a fantastic wine" for its lifted, perfumed aromatics and tense, lively palate structure, and we can confirm – this is crowd-pleasing Nebbiolo at its best, with an added element of top-notch pedigree to take it up a level or two. | ||
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| 2023 Ridge Three Valleys (750ml) | ||
| Zinfandel from Sonoma County, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Generous and robust yet retains a sense of polish..." - Wine Spectator Among the luminaries and reference points in California Zinfandel, Ridge Vineyards is always a sure bet when it comes to classic expressions of the varietal, at every point in the price spectrum. The 2023 Three Valleys continues this entry-level cuvées record and reputation as a superb bang-for-the-buck choice, thanks not only to Ridge's unparalleled vineyard sources in Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley, but also to their commitment to the same meticulous winemaking that goes into their top bottlings. Notching a pair of 93-point scores from Wine Spectator and Jeb Dunnuck, it's "complex and less rustic than usual, the vintage showing classic charm and elegance." In a category that too often sees explosive fruit bombs with alcohol approaching jet fuel levels, you can always depend on Ridge to stay true to proper California Zin form – vivid varietal character, undeniable charm and approachability, and world-class value. | ||
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| 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti Selection Blend of Terroir (750ml) | ||
| Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "One of the most dynamic winemakers in Argentina" James Suckling Crafted by B-21 favorite Marcelo Pelleriti, the first Argentinian-born winemaker to garner a perfect Parker score for a Bordeaux wine, the alluring 96 pt. 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti Selection Blend of Terroir reveals fresh, fragrant dark fruit balanced by creamy refined tannins on a smooth, long-lasting finish, a masterful blend of old vine Malbec from Mendoza's Uco Valley from a rock star winemaker built to enjoy over the next decade at an unfathomable value price. Renowned as the incredible talent behind transforming the Grand Vin of two Pomerol estates including producing the 100 pt. 2010 La Violette, Marcelo Pelleriti established his personal label Mendoza winery on his family's 110-year-old farm in La Consulta in the Uco Valley in 2007, a region described as encapsulating "the spirit of winemaking precision and creativity" in Argentina by Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo and called "Argentina's Napa Valley" by critic Tim Atkin. Sourced from a diverse range of vineyards throughout Uco Valley with a variety of alluvial, mineral-rich soils, Marcelo crafted the elegantly balanced 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti Selection Blend of Terroir from 85% old vine Malbec and 15% Cabernet Franc grown at high altitudes in the Andes foothills, many of the pre-phylloxera, gnarled Malbec vines planted over 100 years ago at 1,000 meters above sea level. After co-fermenting the hand harvested grapes with indigenous yeasts, Marcelo aged the impressive 2019 Blend of Terroir for 16-22 months in French oak barrels with 18 months longer in bottle, yielding a "well-crafted and keenly priced" blend according to Neal Martin of Vinous revealing dense luscious fruit with velvety tannins and layers of complexity promising longevity. From "a creative hotspot producing some of Argentina's best and most modern wines" according to Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo, the exceptional 96 pt. 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti Selection Blend of Terroir reflects Marcelo Pelleriti's passion and expertise as a leading producer of terroir-expressive wines in the Uco Valley, offering his loyal following and collectors of Argentina's best red wines an exciting opportunity to enjoy a thrilling, age worthy Malbec from a remarkable winemaker at an equally remarkable price. | ||
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| 2022 Wohlmuth Kitzeck-Sausal Sauvignon Blanc Late Bottling (750ml) | ||
| Sauvignon Blanc from Südsteiermark, Steiermark, Austria | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is a reliably excellent producer with some of the finest Styrian wines." - Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate Southern Austria's Styria region, also known as Südsteiermark, has always been an insider's secret among Austrian wine lovers. These are some of the most dramatic vineyards in the country, and their ancient soils are highly suited to a wide range of varietals, but it's the notable trio of Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc that really define the highest quality tiers here. In fact, Sauvignon Blanc is arguably the region's calling card, and Weingut Wohlmuth is an under-the-radar star in the region, thanks to theirs, which are praised for their combination of "radiant fruit, power and intensity" by Wine Advocate's Stephan Reinhardt. Their village vineyards around Kitzeck-Sausal are highly prized for the 400 million-year-old phyllitic slate soils, and the 94-point 2022 Kitzeck-Sausal Sauvignon Blanc is a classic expression of the estate's style and the varietal's character in this part of the world. Better yet, no Sauv Blanc fan should miss the jaw-dropping, 98-point 2022 Ried Edelschuh Sauvignon Blanc. "So deep yet so delicate" and playing on par with the world's very finest expressions, it's a collectible-caliber wine from an unequivocal grand cru site. Of course, this being Austria, Riesling is a foundational part of Styria's DNA, and Wohlmuth's 2021s are singularly expressive in that regard. The Dr. Wunsch vineyard has hundreds of years of history, but was only recently reclaimed and laboriously recultivated by the estate, bringing it back to its revered potential of generations past. The 2021 is a WA94, sub-$35 standout that's "dense, juicy and salty, showing crystalline acidity as well as enormous power and length with corresponding tannin structure, yet also elegance and finesse." Finally, the same Ried Edelschuh that produces the stunning Sauv Blanc mentioned above also produces a grand-cru caliber Riesling with "tension, grip and energy but also balance" to the tune of 95 points from Reinhardt. Austria has always been a source of some the best quality for the price in the Old World, and offering like these from Wohlmuth only reinforce the idea that any serious wine lover who prizes authentic terroir and unbeatable class should be digging deep into the country's incredible trove of new discoveries. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Gadais Les Perrieres Muscadet Monopole (750ml) | ||
| Melon de Bourgogne from Muscadet, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Loire wine scene is the sheer treasure trove of over-performing values to be found nearly everywhere you look up and down the valley. True insiders know the first place to go to maximize the value of your dollar is Muscadet Sèvre et Maine at the far western end of the Loire. Made strictly from the Mélon de Bourgogne grape, these wines are well-known for their racy acidity and vibrant mineral character, accentuated by the cool maritime climate and balanced by textural richness thanks to aging on the fine lees. Based on those qualities, you might think these are ideal pairings for seafood, and you'd be right. Have some top-notch oysters but don't want to splash out for Champagne? Muscadet is your answer! This trio from the reference-point Domaine Gadais is exemplary of what the category offers white wine lovers – beautifully crafted, pure terroir expressions, glowing critical praise, and must-see pricing that invites stocking up by the case. And the best part? Each wine is emblematic of Muscadet's famed age-worthy potential, putting them among the sharpest cellar buys anywhere in the world. | ||
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| 2024 Massolino Barbera d'Alba (750ml) | ||
| Barbera from Barbera d'Alba, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Massolino is another winery that has been on a roll of late. These new releases are stellar." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous One of Piedmont's leading lights, Massolino is a perennial standout among Piedmont fans for their super-refined, elegant house style. From the village wines to the single-cru expressions, you'll find captivating profiles that have won critical accolades year in and year out. We just sourced a must-see parcel of some of the estate's finest recent releases, showcasing the impeccable excellence that characterizes every bottle of Massolino. Leading off is the 2021 village Barbaresco, a blend from the Albesani, Starderi, and Serraboella crus. As Galloni explains, "Readers will find a super-classic Barbaresco [with] lifted aromatics, mid-weight structure and persistent yet fine tannins." The triple 95-point, "very impressive and detailed" 2021 Albesani Barbaresco takes things up a notch - "a super-classic wine that ... possesses notable structure and the understated depth that is common of Barbaresco" according to Galloni. Finally, Piedmont fans shouldn't overlook the other varietal gems in the Massolino stable, highlighted by their lovely, utterly charming 2023 Dolcetto and the 93-point 2021 Barbera Gisep, a blend of three parcels within the Barolo DOCG designation with more serious pedigree than is typically found in this "humble" Piedmont varietal. There's no doubt that Massolino should be on every Piedmont lover's short list, and these latest releases show one of the region's great estates at the top of their game. | ||
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| 2024 Kelley Fox Gruner Veltliner (750ml) | ||
| Gruner Veltliner from Dundee Hills, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Anyone looking for Oregon Pinot Noir purity and transparent communication of terroir from the soil to the vine to the bottle must explore Kelley Fox Wines." - Eric Guido, Vinous Long-time B-21 Pinot Noir fans are now well-familiar with the spectacular offerings from this boutique darling of the Willamette Valley scene. With a critical track record to rival pretty much anyone else in the appellation, Kelley Fox is a bona fide star these days, and we're thrilled to have such an established relationship with her and her wines. This outstanding set of releases showcases exactly why Eric Guido calls Kelley's wines "one of the most exciting portfolios of wines made in the United States." Her elegant vineyard-expressive Pinot Noirs and energetic Chardonnays are sourced from many of the most iconic vineyard in the Valley. The entire line-up is full of must-try masterpieces, from the 94-point "entry-level" Mirabai to the single-vineyard stunners like the 98-point 2023 Shafer Vineyard and the pair of 2022 standouts from Maresh Vineyard, one of the oldest sites in Oregon. Of these two, it's particularly worth noting that Kelley won't be making wine from Maresh going forward, so get your hands on them now. The whites are equally compelling, and not just the Chards (although these do present some of the sharpest buys in the category, all at under $40). Her Grüner and Pinot Blanc are a testament to her unwavering belief in these varietals, and the critics seem to agree. Any way you look at it, these are among the most consistently excellent wines out there, not only in Oregon but in the entire country. If you haven't jumped on board the Kelley Fox wagon, you have no idea what you're missing. | ||
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| 2022 Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from South Australia, Australia | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2021 Mollydooker The Maitre D' Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from South Australia, Australia | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2022 Mollydooker Two Left Feet (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from South Australia, Australia | ||
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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. | ||
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| 2023 Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is a magical property. Of late, the wines have been pretty magical too." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous While Tignanello gets all (or almost all) the attention in the Marchesi Antinori stable, the Guado al Tasso wines have started to gain some serious traction of their own among Italian fans, and they now stand apart from their more famous sibling in all the right ways. Indeed, recent vintages have seen the estate hit new benchmarks in quality and acclaim, something that continues in this trio of new releases. The 2023 Il Bruciato stands out as one of the Tuscany's leading value buys once again, capturing the power of the warm vintage while retaining ample freshness to make it accessible even today. This JD93 blend of Bordeaux varietals plus Syrah offers up a thoroughly modern profile with tons of broad, crowd-pleasing appeal and a price to match. The Super Tuscan blends are the attention-getters in the Antinori portfolio, but the 2022 Cont' Ugo Merlot is an insider's savvy buy. We know, we know ... Merlot? Yes, Merlot. It's one of the most intriguing and dynamic varietals in Tuscany today. The coastal climate and soils are ideally suited to this Bordeaux transplant, but the result is never just an imitation of the Right Bank style. Instead, Merlot takes on its own singular Tuscan character that lends a new and vibrant perspective to the grape and the category as a whole, and the 94-point 2022 Cont' Ugo is a prime example. Finally, the latest vintage of Guado al Tasso shows the unmatched pedigree of Antinori, from the sterling quality of the fruit, to the clear terroir signatures, to the precise and meticulous winemaking, which really was deciding factor in the 2022 vintage. As Monica Larner of Wine Advocate declares in her 96-point review, "The wine is velvety and richly textured at its core, but it is also seamless with very pleasurable sweetness." Everything about the 2022 is expertly composed and in its proper place, earning it three rock-solid, 96-point reviews from Italy's leading critics. For those who follow the Italian collectible scene, especially the Super Tuscan category, you'll no doubt be making room in the cellar for this exceptional expression from one of Italy's most iconic estates. | ||
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| 2021 Dominio de Atauta Parada de Atauta (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero, Castilla y Leon, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The perfumed, floral and aromatic 2021 Parada de Atauta combines ripeness with freshness and elegance." - Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate An estate on the rise in Ribera del Duero, Dominio de Atauta has emerged as one of the region's great insider's secrets, with several astute critics recognizing the undeniable quality and character of these wines crafted from high-elevation, old vines planted in very poor soil. The Soria sub-zone adds an element of finesse to Atauta's wines, even as the signature intensity of Ribera is on full display. An "excellent opportunity to sample what this winery can do," the Parada de Atauta is an overachieving stunner that punches well above its weight class. As Wine Advocate's Luis Gutierrez notes, "It's not a shy wine ... but keeps the poise and harmony, with a round and tender palate, very fine tannins and purity of flavors." Parada is sourced from a handful of plots ranging in age from 90 to 120 years on sandy terroir, giving it that poise and harmony mentioned above, while a lighter oak regime (by Ribero standards) provides just the right contours to bring everything together in one supremely polished, enticing package. It's somewhat surprising that Atauta doesn't have a bigger market footprint in the U.S., but we're also proud to showcase a Spanish insider's top find at a price that can't be beat. | ||
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| 2020 Domaine Gadais Muscadet Monnieres St-Fiacre Plantation 1947 (750ml) | ||
| Melon de Bourgogne from Muscadet, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Loire wine scene is the sheer treasure trove of over-performing values to be found nearly everywhere you look up and down the valley. True insiders know the first place to go to maximize the value of your dollar is Muscadet Sèvre et Maine at the far western end of the Loire. Made strictly from the Mélon de Bourgogne grape, these wines are well-known for their racy acidity and vibrant mineral character, accentuated by the cool maritime climate and balanced by textural richness thanks to aging on the fine lees. Based on those qualities, you might think these are ideal pairings for seafood, and you'd be right. Have some top-notch oysters but don't want to splash out for Champagne? Muscadet is your answer! This trio from the reference-point Domaine Gadais is exemplary of what the category offers white wine lovers – beautifully crafted, pure terroir expressions, glowing critical praise, and must-see pricing that invites stocking up by the case. And the best part? Each wine is emblematic of Muscadet's famed age-worthy potential, putting them among the sharpest cellar buys anywhere in the world. | ||
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| Blue Note Juke Joint Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Memphis, Tennessee | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More With the prices in the bourbon category getting, well ... shall we say, out of control, it's nice to come across something with rock solid accolades and reputation that you can still grab for a price that makes it easy to share. The Blue Note Juke Joint Straight Bourbon is a classic Kentucky mashbill from an undisclosed distiller that was then aged in the Big River Distilling Co's Tennessee warehouse along the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. At only three years old, it still boasts uncommon weight and a rounded texture, having been bottled without filtration. No surprise then that it notched 93 points and a Best Buy designation from Wine Enthusiast, while also taking home numerous high-profile awards, culminating in a Platinum medal and double Gold medals at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. At under $30, it's not an outlandish claim to say this may the best value bourbon on the shelf, and it's certainly an easy choice if you're looking for a new go-to session option or a base for your favorite classic cocktails. | ||
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