Top Quality Store
. Click on your Sundae above to reactivate last month's offers, always available in-store too. Even sweeter: these prices will be good tomorrow too, while supplies last.
| 2021 Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is a wine of pedigree and class. Aromatic, vibrant and Now under the third generation of the Bianchi family, Castello di Monsanto is one of the most forward-looking yet traditional estates in Chianti Classico. After all, founder Aldo Bianchi was the visionary who first choose to bottle a single-vineyard wine from their prized Il Poggio parcel, and now his granddaughter, Laura, runs the estate with the same view toward the future that her father and grandfather did, and they now produce some of the most acclaimed, traditionally styled wines in the region. Another "sublime effort" from an epic vintage, the 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is the estate's flagship expression of its philosophy and terroir, an ideal Tuscan microclimate that, along with the estate's use of Slavonian oak, produces Sangiovese wines of artisanal finesse and refinement. With a mountain of sterling critical praise, including several 95-point reviews, the 2021 Riserva stacks up as an all-time great value buy from Italy at well under $30, so you can (and should) consider stacking it by the case. | ||
|
||
| 2024 Kelley Fox Willamette Valley Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Willamette, Oregon | ||
|
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. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Carneros, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sonoma's standard-bearer Ferrari-Carano needs little introduction. These quintessential California classics have been all-time best sellers at B-21 for years, and it's always nice to see a standard bearer continue to hit the mark. These latest releases 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 "rich, satisfying" 2024 Chardonnay is a top-shelf value performer at 92 points & under $15, a perfect option for your next go-to house white. A step (or two) up is the 95-point 2022 Chardonnay Reserve, a full-bodied wine with lovely texture and tension, outpacing it's sub-$30 price. For the reds, the 2023 Siena hits on all cylinders for fans of this QPR best seller, while the 92-point 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is "very generous and giving for the price" with "concentrated aromas" and a "rich and broad" palate. If you're looking for surefire quality at an easy price, you almost have too many good options with these Sonoma classics. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Chateau Canon Pecresse (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A small plateau of shlallow limestone and clay soils, weather moderated by the nearby Gironde, centuries of history producing great Merlot-based wines ... surely you'd expect to pay a premium for anything from this exceptional Right Bank region. But think again. While prices in Pomerol and St-Emilion continue to climb (often to eye-watering numbers these days), the humble Fronsac appellation is still a veritable treasure trove of stupendous values that are hardly matched anywhere in Bordeaux. Our line-up today offers a fantastic picture of what makes Fronsac such a rewarding region for Bordeaux lovers seeking the ultimate combination of quality and value. Led by a pair of highly acclaimed expressions from the benchmark La Vieille Cure estate, you won't find more impressive bang for your buck on the Right Bank. The historic Chateau de la Dauphine hit new heights with its "positively stellar" 2020, and long-time B-21 favorite Fontenil is "a winner and well worth a case purchase" according to Jeb Dunnuck. Finally, Canon Pecresse turned out "a pure, mineral-laced Right Bank ... very much in the classic, balanced, yet impressive style of the vintage." The best part of the proposition is that you can indulge in any or all of them as much as you please. With pricing like this, you can stock the cellar with guaranteed value performers that will shine well into the next decade and beyond. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Chateau De La Dauphine (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A small plateau of shlallow limestone and clay soils, weather moderated by the nearby Gironde, centuries of history producing great Merlot-based wines ... surely you'd expect to pay a premium for anything from this exceptional Right Bank region. But think again. While prices in Pomerol and St-Emilion continue to climb (often to eye-watering numbers these days), the humble Fronsac appellation is still a veritable treasure trove of stupendous values that are hardly matched anywhere in Bordeaux. Our line-up today offers a fantastic picture of what makes Fronsac such a rewarding region for Bordeaux lovers seeking the ultimate combination of quality and value. Led by a pair of highly acclaimed expressions from the benchmark La Vieille Cure estate, you won't find more impressive bang for your buck on the Right Bank. The historic Chateau de la Dauphine hit new heights with its "positively stellar" 2020, and long-time B-21 favorite Fontenil is "a winner and well worth a case purchase" according to Jeb Dunnuck. Finally, Canon Pecresse turned out "a pure, mineral-laced Right Bank ... very much in the classic, balanced, yet impressive style of the vintage." The best part of the proposition is that you can indulge in any or all of them as much as you please. With pricing like this, you can stock the cellar with guaranteed value performers that will shine well into the next decade and beyond. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Chateau Fontenil (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A small plateau of shlallow limestone and clay soils, weather moderated by the nearby Gironde, centuries of history producing great Merlot-based wines ... surely you'd expect to pay a premium for anything from this exceptional Right Bank region. But think again. While prices in Pomerol and St-Emilion continue to climb (often to eye-watering numbers these days), the humble Fronsac appellation is still a veritable treasure trove of stupendous values that are hardly matched anywhere in Bordeaux. Our line-up today offers a fantastic picture of what makes Fronsac such a rewarding region for Bordeaux lovers seeking the ultimate combination of quality and value. Led by a pair of highly acclaimed expressions from the benchmark La Vieille Cure estate, you won't find more impressive bang for your buck on the Right Bank. The historic Chateau de la Dauphine hit new heights with its "positively stellar" 2020, and long-time B-21 favorite Fontenil is "a winner and well worth a case purchase" according to Jeb Dunnuck. Finally, Canon Pecresse turned out "a pure, mineral-laced Right Bank ... very much in the classic, balanced, yet impressive style of the vintage." The best part of the proposition is that you can indulge in any or all of them as much as you please. With pricing like this, you can stock the cellar with guaranteed value performers that will shine well into the next decade and beyond. | ||
|
||
| 2019 Chateau Rol Valentin (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank. Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson. Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! | ||
|
||
| 2016 Bodegas Beronia Gran Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Renowned for producing "classical, reliable wines" according to Wine Advocate's Luis Gutierrez, Beronia is a household name in overachieving Rioja value. Vintage after vintage, the estate delivers some of the best bang for the buck in all of Spain, attracting legions of fans who have made these wines into best-selling benchmarks over the years. The JS91 Crianza is once again one of the Rioja's sharpest case-buy contenders. "Quite juicy and well made," it's a quintessential young Rioja for fans of wines both easy on the palate and on the wallet. The 93-point 2020 Beronia Reserva is another well-crafted edition of this fan-favorite to add to its consistent track record of reliability. The profile is everything long-time fans know and love, immediately accessible, charming, "harmonious," as Wine Spectator describes it. Made from Beronia's oldest vines, the 2016 Beronia Gran Reserva also brings home the goods and then some. Aged over 28 months in French oak followed by three years in bottle prior to release to develop its trademark complexity and depth, the 2016 is a "lively red, with well-meshed, sculpted tannins" according to Wine Spectator. It's a perfect trio to stock up on to deliver outstanding QPR and classic Rioja style, time and time again over the next several years. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Pascal Bonhomme Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Macon, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Value and Burgundy, together in the same sentence? Yes, indeed. We've spent the past six months curating an exceptional roster of overperforming gems that deliver all the class and terroir expression that white Burgundy fans crave, while still coming in at surprisingly affordable pricing. Our direct-import portfolio is at the heart of this selection, starting with the 2023 Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes, a compelling entry-level charmer that boasts great pedigree, as it hails from a 3-hectare parcel of high-density plantings bordering the official Puligny appellation. Refined and expressive, it's a superb introduction to a rising-star domaine in the Cote d'Or and a surefire winner for anyone who's looking for true white Burgundy terroir at a bargain price. The same can be said of the 2023 Cordier Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four. If you're an avid follower of the Mâcon and its growing reputation, you no doubt recognize the Clos du Four vineyard from Les Heritiérs du Comte Lafon. It's one of the most coveted sites in the appellation, so much so that Dominique Lafon sought an outright monoply of ownership and almost got it, but Christophe, who had been leasing his parcel from the previous owner for years, fought tooth and nail, ultimately securing his small plot at the top of the vineyard in sole defiance of the Lafon juggernaut. "The 2023 Clos du Four is a beautiful example of its vineyard, offering everything you'd want from the Lafon version at nearly half the price," writes B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz. In a similar vein, Vincent Girardin's 2023 Cuvée St-Vincent Bourgogne Chardonnay is, in fact, made mostly from declassified Meursault vines, with a small balance of Puligny and Chassagne fruit rounding out the composition, so there's no question where the wine derives its outsized character. Andrew explains, "We came across a number of great values on our last trip to Burgundy, but nothing held a candle to this one when it came to Chardonnays in this price tier." B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's 2023 Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages. Along with John Gilman's glowing 93-point review, our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Turning to one of our most rewarding domaine-direct relationships for several years now, the 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru is "a superb quality-to-price performer, not just for white Burg fans but for anyone who loves well-crafted Chardonnay." From a significant holding of 60-year-old vines in Montagny's most famous cru, the 2023 shows its clay-calcaire soils and old-vine pedigree in a rounded, utterly charming style that truly offers something for everyone. No hard edges, graceful balance, and upfront personality all make for another fine entry in the track record of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, with 95 points from James Suckling's Burgundy critic, Stuart Pigott, the 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Véran En Creches is endowed with "excellent concentration [and] so much chalky energy and citric freshness." This vineyard on the border of Davayé and Vergisson is just downslope from the famed Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru La Roche, and its ideal combination of shallow clay topsoils and limestone sub-stratum makes for the kind of excellent Chardonnay pedigree from which all great white Burgundy comes. As you can see, we've done our digging, and whether you're looking for an easy pick to enjoy today, or something you can stock up on and come back to over and over again for a few years, there's a surefire winner or three in this list for you. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Domaine Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Bourgogne, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Value and Burgundy, together in the same sentence? Yes, indeed. We've spent the past six months curating an exceptional roster of overperforming gems that deliver all the class and terroir expression that white Burgundy fans crave, while still coming in at surprisingly affordable pricing. Our direct-import portfolio is at the heart of this selection, starting with the 2023 Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes, a compelling entry-level charmer that boasts great pedigree, as it hails from a 3-hectare parcel of high-density plantings bordering the official Puligny appellation. Refined and expressive, it's a superb introduction to a rising-star domaine in the Cote d'Or and a surefire winner for anyone who's looking for true white Burgundy terroir at a bargain price. The same can be said of the 2023 Cordier Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four. If you're an avid follower of the Mâcon and its growing reputation, you no doubt recognize the Clos du Four vineyard from Les Heritiérs du Comte Lafon. It's one of the most coveted sites in the appellation, so much so that Dominique Lafon sought an outright monoply of ownership and almost got it, but Christophe, who had been leasing his parcel from the previous owner for years, fought tooth and nail, ultimately securing his small plot at the top of the vineyard in sole defiance of the Lafon juggernaut. "The 2023 Clos du Four is a beautiful example of its vineyard, offering everything you'd want from the Lafon version at nearly half the price," writes B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz. In a similar vein, Vincent Girardin's 2023 Cuvée St-Vincent Bourgogne Chardonnay is, in fact, made mostly from declassified Meursault vines, with a small balance of Puligny and Chassagne fruit rounding out the composition, so there's no question where the wine derives its outsized character. Andrew explains, "We came across a number of great values on our last trip to Burgundy, but nothing held a candle to this one when it came to Chardonnays in this price tier." B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's 2023 Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages. Along with John Gilman's glowing 93-point review, our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Turning to one of our most rewarding domaine-direct relationships for several years now, the 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru is "a superb quality-to-price performer, not just for white Burg fans but for anyone who loves well-crafted Chardonnay." From a significant holding of 60-year-old vines in Montagny's most famous cru, the 2023 shows its clay-calcaire soils and old-vine pedigree in a rounded, utterly charming style that truly offers something for everyone. No hard edges, graceful balance, and upfront personality all make for another fine entry in the track record of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, with 95 points from James Suckling's Burgundy critic, Stuart Pigott, the 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Véran En Creches is endowed with "excellent concentration [and] so much chalky energy and citric freshness." This vineyard on the border of Davayé and Vergisson is just downslope from the famed Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru La Roche, and its ideal combination of shallow clay topsoils and limestone sub-stratum makes for the kind of excellent Chardonnay pedigree from which all great white Burgundy comes. As you can see, we've done our digging, and whether you're looking for an easy pick to enjoy today, or something you can stock up on and come back to over and over again for a few years, there's a surefire winner or three in this list for you. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Christophe Cordier Macon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Macon, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Value and Burgundy, together in the same sentence? Yes, indeed. We've spent the past six months curating an exceptional roster of overperforming gems that deliver all the class and terroir expression that white Burgundy fans crave, while still coming in at surprisingly affordable pricing. Our direct-import portfolio is at the heart of this selection, starting with the 2023 Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes, a compelling entry-level charmer that boasts great pedigree, as it hails from a 3-hectare parcel of high-density plantings bordering the official Puligny appellation. Refined and expressive, it's a superb introduction to a rising-star domaine in the Cote d'Or and a surefire winner for anyone who's looking for true white Burgundy terroir at a bargain price. The same can be said of the 2023 Cordier Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four. If you're an avid follower of the Mâcon and its growing reputation, you no doubt recognize the Clos du Four vineyard from Les Heritiérs du Comte Lafon. It's one of the most coveted sites in the appellation, so much so that Dominique Lafon sought an outright monoply of ownership and almost got it, but Christophe, who had been leasing his parcel from the previous owner for years, fought tooth and nail, ultimately securing his small plot at the top of the vineyard in sole defiance of the Lafon juggernaut. "The 2023 Clos du Four is a beautiful example of its vineyard, offering everything you'd want from the Lafon version at nearly half the price," writes B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz. In a similar vein, Vincent Girardin's 2023 Cuvée St-Vincent Bourgogne Chardonnay is, in fact, made mostly from declassified Meursault vines, with a small balance of Puligny and Chassagne fruit rounding out the composition, so there's no question where the wine derives its outsized character. Andrew explains, "We came across a number of great values on our last trip to Burgundy, but nothing held a candle to this one when it came to Chardonnays in this price tier." B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's 2023 Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages. Along with John Gilman's glowing 93-point review, our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Turning to one of our most rewarding domaine-direct relationships for several years now, the 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru is "a superb quality-to-price performer, not just for white Burg fans but for anyone who loves well-crafted Chardonnay." From a significant holding of 60-year-old vines in Montagny's most famous cru, the 2023 shows its clay-calcaire soils and old-vine pedigree in a rounded, utterly charming style that truly offers something for everyone. No hard edges, graceful balance, and upfront personality all make for another fine entry in the track record of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, with 95 points from James Suckling's Burgundy critic, Stuart Pigott, the 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Véran En Creches is endowed with "excellent concentration [and] so much chalky energy and citric freshness." This vineyard on the border of Davayé and Vergisson is just downslope from the famed Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru La Roche, and its ideal combination of shallow clay topsoils and limestone sub-stratum makes for the kind of excellent Chardonnay pedigree from which all great white Burgundy comes. As you can see, we've done our digging, and whether you're looking for an easy pick to enjoy today, or something you can stock up on and come back to over and over again for a few years, there's a surefire winner or three in this list for you. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Vincent Girardin Bourgogne Blanc Cuvee St Vincent (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Bourgogne, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Value and Burgundy, together in the same sentence? Yes, indeed. We've spent the past six months curating an exceptional roster of overperforming gems that deliver all the class and terroir expression that white Burgundy fans crave, while still coming in at surprisingly affordable pricing. Our direct-import portfolio is at the heart of this selection, starting with the 2023 Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes, a compelling entry-level charmer that boasts great pedigree, as it hails from a 3-hectare parcel of high-density plantings bordering the official Puligny appellation. Refined and expressive, it's a superb introduction to a rising-star domaine in the Cote d'Or and a surefire winner for anyone who's looking for true white Burgundy terroir at a bargain price. The same can be said of the 2023 Cordier Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four. If you're an avid follower of the Mâcon and its growing reputation, you no doubt recognize the Clos du Four vineyard from Les Heritiérs du Comte Lafon. It's one of the most coveted sites in the appellation, so much so that Dominique Lafon sought an outright monoply of ownership and almost got it, but Christophe, who had been leasing his parcel from the previous owner for years, fought tooth and nail, ultimately securing his small plot at the top of the vineyard in sole defiance of the Lafon juggernaut. "The 2023 Clos du Four is a beautiful example of its vineyard, offering everything you'd want from the Lafon version at nearly half the price," writes B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz. In a similar vein, Vincent Girardin's 2023 Cuvée St-Vincent Bourgogne Chardonnay is, in fact, made mostly from declassified Meursault vines, with a small balance of Puligny and Chassagne fruit rounding out the composition, so there's no question where the wine derives its outsized character. Andrew explains, "We came across a number of great values on our last trip to Burgundy, but nothing held a candle to this one when it came to Chardonnays in this price tier." B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's 2023 Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages. Along with John Gilman's glowing 93-point review, our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Turning to one of our most rewarding domaine-direct relationships for several years now, the 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru is "a superb quality-to-price performer, not just for white Burg fans but for anyone who loves well-crafted Chardonnay." From a significant holding of 60-year-old vines in Montagny's most famous cru, the 2023 shows its clay-calcaire soils and old-vine pedigree in a rounded, utterly charming style that truly offers something for everyone. No hard edges, graceful balance, and upfront personality all make for another fine entry in the track record of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, with 95 points from James Suckling's Burgundy critic, Stuart Pigott, the 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Véran En Creches is endowed with "excellent concentration [and] so much chalky energy and citric freshness." This vineyard on the border of Davayé and Vergisson is just downslope from the famed Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru La Roche, and its ideal combination of shallow clay topsoils and limestone sub-stratum makes for the kind of excellent Chardonnay pedigree from which all great white Burgundy comes. As you can see, we've done our digging, and whether you're looking for an easy pick to enjoy today, or something you can stock up on and come back to over and over again for a few years, there's a surefire winner or three in this list for you. | ||
|
||
| Four Pillars Fresh Yuzu Gin (750ml) | ||
| From Victoria, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "These inventive yet classic gins appeal to a broad range of tastes and applications. It's no wonder Four Pillars has become the brightest star in the craft gin scene." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer In a relatively short time frame, Four Pillars has made a huge splash in the craft gin world, developing a devoted following not only in their Australian homeland but here in the U.S. as well. In fact, they're widely considered the finest gin distillery in the world, and to prove it, they sport three Best Gin Distillery crowns from the International Wine and Spirits Competition since 2019. After all, gin is all they do, so they put everything they have into the art with stunning results. Starting with the finest locally sourced Australian grain, the team at Four Pillars produces a remarkably pure spirit that lends itself to a huge variety of botanicals and thus to an incredibly imaginative range of experimental styles. As a result, they've turned out some absolutely stunning expressions that are like nothing else in the category. The Fresh Yuzu is perhaps the best example of this experimental wizardry. The key ingredient is, of course, fresh yuzu fruit grown in Australia. But the team then gives it its proper due by adding various botanicals that are often paired with yuzu in cuisine – ginger, sencha genmaicha, turmeric, juniper berry, and coriander to name just a few. The profile is centered on citrus, but the other elements are so well-defined that it doesn't stray a single step from a proper gin character of the highest order. Taking things to the savory end of the spectrum, the equally innovative Olive Leaf is a true stroke of genius. As the name suggests, it's steeped with olive leaves and olive oil from the famed Cobram Estate in Yarra Valley, along with numerous companions like rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts, and grapefruit. As an antidote to citrusy gins, it's your new go-to for next-level martinis or G&Ts. No matter your preference, both of these artfully crafted, best-in-class expressions are sure to become staples on your bar. | ||
|
||
| Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin (750ml) | ||
| From Victoria, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "These inventive yet classic gins appeal to a broad range of tastes and applications. It's no wonder Four Pillars has become the brightest star in the craft gin scene." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer In a relatively short time frame, Four Pillars has made a huge splash in the craft gin world, developing a devoted following not only in their Australian homeland but here in the U.S. as well. In fact, they're widely considered the finest gin distillery in the world, and to prove it, they sport three Best Gin Distillery crowns from the International Wine and Spirits Competition since 2019. After all, gin is all they do, so they put everything they have into the art with stunning results. Starting with the finest locally sourced Australian grain, the team at Four Pillars produces a remarkably pure spirit that lends itself to a huge variety of botanicals and thus to an incredibly imaginative range of experimental styles. As a result, they've turned out some absolutely stunning expressions that are like nothing else in the category. The Fresh Yuzu is perhaps the best example of this experimental wizardry. The key ingredient is, of course, fresh yuzu fruit grown in Australia. But the team then gives it its proper due by adding various botanicals that are often paired with yuzu in cuisine – ginger, sencha genmaicha, turmeric, juniper berry, and coriander to name just a few. The profile is centered on citrus, but the other elements are so well-defined that it doesn't stray a single step from a proper gin character of the highest order. Taking things to the savory end of the spectrum, the equally innovative Olive Leaf is a true stroke of genius. As the name suggests, it's steeped with olive leaves and olive oil from the famed Cobram Estate in Yarra Valley, along with numerous companions like rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts, and grapefruit. As an antidote to citrusy gins, it's your new go-to for next-level martinis or G&Ts. No matter your preference, both of these artfully crafted, best-in-class expressions are sure to become staples on your bar. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Kelley Fox Pinot Noir Mirabai (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
|
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. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Ridge Lytton Estate Petite Sirah (750ml) | ||
| Petite Sirah from Sonoma, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Is there a more consistently excellent estate in California than Ridge Vineyards? You'd be hard-pressed to make an argument otherwise. Decades of category-defining class and substance have resulted in untold numbers of awards and accolades, so it's no surprise to see them once again at the head of the class in this set of new arrivals. One of the most beloved wines in the Ridge stable, the Lytton Springs is a classic California old-vine field blend, based on ZInfandel that has come to set the standard for the style over decades of uninterrupted success. From Ridge's estate vineyard in the Dry Creek Valley that includes centenarian Zinfandel vines, the "fabulous" 2021 Lytton Springs is "bright and vibrant to its core" according to Galloni's 95-point review, Of course, Ridge is also renowned for delivering serious bang for the buck throughout their extensive range, and two perennial favorites are the 2020 Lytton Estate Petite Sirah and the 2023 Three Valleys. The former is a 95-point powerhouse that Antonio Galloni calls "superb ... deep and resonant." The sub-$25, double 93-point Three Valleys is a true QPR star, "generous and robust yet retaining a sense of polish." It's a no-brainer choice for an everyday red, because it delivers a level or two above that tier, yet it can be easily stacked by the case at a bargain price. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Domaine du Cayron Gigondas (750ml) | ||
| From Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...a medium to full-bodied, gamey, exotic, balanced Gigondas that's just about overflowing with character." - Jeb Dunnuck A favorite producer of B-21 Rhône fans and collectors offering incredible quality at an unbeatable value, Domaine du Cayron has hits the mark once again with their 2022 Gigondas. Fifth-generation sisters Roseline, Cendrine, and Delphine source their family’s single cuvée from old vines planted at some of the appellation’s highest altitudes, the domain's name Cayron referring to the crest of the Dentelles. Spanning nearly 17 hectares on 20 different parcels, the domaine’s vineyards are planted with mostly Grenache and smaller amounts of Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre on a mix of clay, marl and limestones soils. Employing traditional methods that are “old school all the way” according to Jeb Dunnuck, the Faraud sisters have produced "a killer effort offering beautiful darker fruits supported by some meaty, garrigue, and iron-like nuances" in their 2022 Gigondas. Along with Dunnuck, Vinous' Nicolas Greinacher declares "it’s an outstanding Gigondas worth seeking out" that will captivate fans of bold Southern Rhône reds on the first sip, while providing consistent pleasure for the next decade. | ||
|
||
| 2018 Chateau La Vieille Cure (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A small plateau of shlallow limestone and clay soils, weather moderated by the nearby Gironde, centuries of history producing great Merlot-based wines ... surely you'd expect to pay a premium for anything from this exceptional Right Bank region. But think again. While prices in Pomerol and St-Emilion continue to climb (often to eye-watering numbers these days), the humble Fronsac appellation is still a veritable treasure trove of stupendous values that are hardly matched anywhere in Bordeaux. Our line-up today offers a fantastic picture of what makes Fronsac such a rewarding region for Bordeaux lovers seeking the ultimate combination of quality and value. Led by a pair of highly acclaimed expressions from the benchmark La Vieille Cure estate, you won't find more impressive bang for your buck on the Right Bank. The historic Chateau de la Dauphine hit new heights with its "positively stellar" 2020, and long-time B-21 favorite Fontenil is "a winner and well worth a case purchase" according to Jeb Dunnuck. Finally, Canon Pecresse turned out "a pure, mineral-laced Right Bank ... very much in the classic, balanced, yet impressive style of the vintage." The best part of the proposition is that you can indulge in any or all of them as much as you please. With pricing like this, you can stock the cellar with guaranteed value performers that will shine well into the next decade and beyond. | ||
|
||
| 2019 Chateau La Vieille Cure (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank. Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson. Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! | ||
|
||
| 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Montagny, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Value and Burgundy, together in the same sentence? Yes, indeed. We've spent the past six months curating an exceptional roster of overperforming gems that deliver all the class and terroir expression that white Burgundy fans crave, while still coming in at surprisingly affordable pricing. Our direct-import portfolio is at the heart of this selection, starting with the 2023 Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes, a compelling entry-level charmer that boasts great pedigree, as it hails from a 3-hectare parcel of high-density plantings bordering the official Puligny appellation. Refined and expressive, it's a superb introduction to a rising-star domaine in the Cote d'Or and a surefire winner for anyone who's looking for true white Burgundy terroir at a bargain price. The same can be said of the 2023 Cordier Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four. If you're an avid follower of the Mâcon and its growing reputation, you no doubt recognize the Clos du Four vineyard from Les Heritiérs du Comte Lafon. It's one of the most coveted sites in the appellation, so much so that Dominique Lafon sought an outright monoply of ownership and almost got it, but Christophe, who had been leasing his parcel from the previous owner for years, fought tooth and nail, ultimately securing his small plot at the top of the vineyard in sole defiance of the Lafon juggernaut. "The 2023 Clos du Four is a beautiful example of its vineyard, offering everything you'd want from the Lafon version at nearly half the price," writes B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz. In a similar vein, Vincent Girardin's 2023 Cuvée St-Vincent Bourgogne Chardonnay is, in fact, made mostly from declassified Meursault vines, with a small balance of Puligny and Chassagne fruit rounding out the composition, so there's no question where the wine derives its outsized character. Andrew explains, "We came across a number of great values on our last trip to Burgundy, but nothing held a candle to this one when it came to Chardonnays in this price tier." B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's 2023 Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages. Along with John Gilman's glowing 93-point review, our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Turning to one of our most rewarding domaine-direct relationships for several years now, the 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru is "a superb quality-to-price performer, not just for white Burg fans but for anyone who loves well-crafted Chardonnay." From a significant holding of 60-year-old vines in Montagny's most famous cru, the 2023 shows its clay-calcaire soils and old-vine pedigree in a rounded, utterly charming style that truly offers something for everyone. No hard edges, graceful balance, and upfront personality all make for another fine entry in the track record of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, with 95 points from James Suckling's Burgundy critic, Stuart Pigott, the 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Véran En Creches is endowed with "excellent concentration [and] so much chalky energy and citric freshness." This vineyard on the border of Davayé and Vergisson is just downslope from the famed Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru La Roche, and its ideal combination of shallow clay topsoils and limestone sub-stratum makes for the kind of excellent Chardonnay pedigree from which all great white Burgundy comes. As you can see, we've done our digging, and whether you're looking for an easy pick to enjoy today, or something you can stock up on and come back to over and over again for a few years, there's a surefire winner or three in this list for you. | ||
|
||
| 2024 Pascal et Nicolas Reverdy Les Coutes (750ml) | ||
| Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre, Loire, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "What a stunning effort from Reverdy in the difficult 2024 vintage! ... Hats off to the domaine – whatever they did, it worked like a charm." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Loire Buyer It's no secret that the 2024 Loire vintage tested everyone's mettle, all the way up to the very top of the hierarchy, so when our Loire buyer found this exceptional offering from Pascal & Nicolas Reverdy, it was a no-brainer to get everything we could get our hands on. Les Coutes is a single parcel of 50-year-old vines on Kimmeridgian limestone that has a reputation for producing densely textured, weighty wines, and that is certainly borne out in 2024, despite the incredibly challenging vintage conditions. As B-21 buyer Andrew Kitz explains, "Many of the 2023s and 2024s I’ve tasted have shown an obvious lack of depth and texture, but the 2024 Les Coutes is not at all short in either department, somehow even outpacing another domaine’s 2022 Chêne Marchand that I tasted along side it." The 2024 Les Coutes shows "pure Sancerre vitality" on the nose along with a "succulent, juicy, textural" palate that conveys everything Sancerre fans are looking for in a top-tier single-vineyard expression. As we said, we took everything we could get, and it wasn't much, so don't miss out on one of the smartest Sancerre buys in our inventory. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Ferrari-Carano Tresor (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sonoma's standard-bearer Ferrari-Carano needs little introduction. These quintessential California classics have been all-time best sellers at B-21 for years, and it's always nice to see a standard bearer continue to hit the mark. These latest releases 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 "rich, satisfying" 2024 Chardonnay is a top-shelf value performer at 92 points & under $15, a perfect option for your next go-to house white. A step (or two) up is the 95-point 2022 Chardonnay Reserve, a full-bodied wine with lovely texture and tension, outpacing it's sub-$30 price. For the reds, the 2023 Siena hits on all cylinders for fans of this QPR best seller, while the 92-point 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is "very generous and giving for the price" with "concentrated aromas" and a "rich and broad" palate. If you're looking for surefire quality at an easy price, you almost have too many good options with these Sonoma classics. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Kelley Fox Pinot Blanc Freedom Hill Vineyard (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Blanc from Willamette, Oregon | ||
|
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. | ||
|
||
| 2024 Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Haut Lieu Sec (750ml) | ||
| Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, Loire, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Domaine Huet remains a pillar of Vouvray and a touchstone for Chenin Blanc worldwide, a domaine where viticulture, philosophy and place converge in bottles of extraordinary clarity and longevity." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate The above quote from Yohan Castaing sums up almost everything you need to know about the magnificent wines of Domaine Huet. Sure, we could also mention that they have been a biodynamic pioneer since 1993, or that their wines age as well as almost any wines in the world, red or white. But at the end of the day, it's the singular character and class of the juice in the bottle that sets them apart from their contemporaries. The newly released, single-vineyard Sec bottlings from 2024 show why the domaine is a force to be reckoned with, not only in Vouvray, but anywhere in the Loire. Even in an exceedingly difficult vintage, this trio adds more glowing acclaim to add to the domaine's already full resumé, proving that Huet is still at the pinnacle. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. The iconic Clos du Bourg site produced "a lacy, seductive version, with impressive range," according to Wine Spectator, while John Gilman of View From the Cellar notes the 94-point Le Haut Lieu as "bright, focused and full-bodied, with a lovely core of fruit, excellent soil transparency and grip, a fine spine of acidity and lovely precision." Rounding out the 2024s, the WA93 Le Mont rounds out the 2024s is "both dense and lively ... a crystalline expression of Vouvray." Finally, don't miss a pair of stellar 2022 Moelleux expressions, led by the monumental, 97-point Clos du Bourg 1ère Trie. "Long, precise and seamless, this is a standout cuvée and one of the highlights of the vintage at this storied address," declares Castaing. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Saint Damien Les Souteyrades (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Continuing to deliver exceptional value for money, the red wines from Domaine Saint-Damien deserve a place on everyone’s Gigondas watchlist." - Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous "These are brilliant, layered, textured Gigondas that represent insane values." - Jeb Dunnuck The above comments pretty much sum up everything you need to know about the all-time best-seling Gigondas stunners from Domaine Saint-Damien. Year after year, they hit the mark with a track record that's easily among the most consistent in the Southern Rhône, and the newly arrived 2023s keep the trend going with monster 98-point scores from Dunnuck, as well as our customary razor-sharp pricing. The 2023 Les Souteyrades (80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre) is from 50- to 80-year-old vines on quarternary soils in the lower terraced section of Gigondas, which accounts for the wine's heady, exotic character. "It's another absolutely riveting Gigondas from this estate that readers should snatch up!" declares Dunnuck. Although not as widely known as Les Souteyrades, the La Louisiane bottling is no less impressive with its inclusion of small amounts of Cinsault and Syrah giving the wine a decidely darker "ultra-classic Gigondas style." From 50- to 85-year-old vines on poor alluvial soils speckled with red clay, the 2023 La Louisiane is "a brilliant effort that will stand toe to toe with anything in the vintage." Best of all, these collectible-caliber showstoppers come in at remarkable sub-$40 pricing that makes it easy to stock up for the long-haul, as the track record of previous vintages suggests that these have a long life ahead of them in the cellar. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Saint Damien La Louisiane (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Continuing to deliver exceptional value for money, the red wines from Domaine Saint-Damien deserve a place on everyone’s Gigondas watchlist." - Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous "These are brilliant, layered, textured Gigondas that represent insane values." - Jeb Dunnuck The above comments pretty much sum up everything you need to know about the all-time best-seling Gigondas stunners from Domaine Saint-Damien. Year after year, they hit the mark with a track record that's easily among the most consistent in the Southern Rhône, and the newly arrived 2023s keep the trend going with monster 98-point scores from Dunnuck, as well as our customary razor-sharp pricing. The 2023 Les Souteyrades (80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre) is from 50- to 80-year-old vines on quarternary soils in the lower terraced section of Gigondas, which accounts for the wine's heady, exotic character. "It's another absolutely riveting Gigondas from this estate that readers should snatch up!" declares Dunnuck. Although not as widely known as Les Souteyrades, the La Louisiane bottling is no less impressive with its inclusion of small amounts of Cinsault and Syrah giving the wine a decidely darker "ultra-classic Gigondas style." From 50- to 85-year-old vines on poor alluvial soils speckled with red clay, the 2023 La Louisiane is "a brilliant effort that will stand toe to toe with anything in the vintage." Best of all, these collectible-caliber showstoppers come in at remarkable sub-$40 pricing that makes it easy to stock up for the long-haul, as the track record of previous vintages suggests that these have a long life ahead of them in the cellar. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Kelley Fox Chardonnay Durant Vineyard Lark Block (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Dundee Hills, Oregon | ||
|
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. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Domaine Collotte Marsannay Les Champsalomon (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Côtes de Nuits, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More They say a rising tide lifts all boats, and as we've seen the overall quality level in Burgundy reach new heights, we've seen its lesser-known and lesser-regarded appellations step out of the shadows with some truly compelling efforts that can still be had for more than reasonable prices. Marsannay is often exhibit A in that conversation. "Collotte's 2022 Les Champsalomon is a beautifully crafted example of modern Marsannay that makes a convincing case that the appellation deserves more attention from Burgundy fans." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Burgundy Buyer Philippe Collotte, and now his daughter Isabelle, have always done things the right way – low yields, manual viticulture, minimalist winemaking – it's all done to give the very best expressions of their excellent, old-vine parcels in Marsannay. Their 0.8-hectare plot in Les Champsalomon is quintessential Marsannay terroir, and the Collotte's always de-stem completely, that terroir is free to shine in the finished wine. The 2022 is a prime bang-for-the-buck contender. Indeed, View From the Cellar's John Gilman calls it "outstanding ... a stunning value!" B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz was also duly impressed by "a surprising level of craftsmanship that should have you rethinking what Marsannay is all about." Truly, the only thing about this wine that fits the Marsannay sterotype is the sub-$40 price. Everything else points to a top-class effort with excellent cellar potential and over-delivering collectible appeal. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Veran En Creches (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Macon, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Value and Burgundy, together in the same sentence? Yes, indeed. We've spent the past six months curating an exceptional roster of overperforming gems that deliver all the class and terroir expression that white Burgundy fans crave, while still coming in at surprisingly affordable pricing. Our direct-import portfolio is at the heart of this selection, starting with the 2023 Chavy-Chouet Bourgogne Blanc Les Femelottes, a compelling entry-level charmer that boasts great pedigree, as it hails from a 3-hectare parcel of high-density plantings bordering the official Puligny appellation. Refined and expressive, it's a superb introduction to a rising-star domaine in the Cote d'Or and a surefire winner for anyone who's looking for true white Burgundy terroir at a bargain price. The same can be said of the 2023 Cordier Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine Clos du Four. If you're an avid follower of the Mâcon and its growing reputation, you no doubt recognize the Clos du Four vineyard from Les Heritiérs du Comte Lafon. It's one of the most coveted sites in the appellation, so much so that Dominique Lafon sought an outright monoply of ownership and almost got it, but Christophe, who had been leasing his parcel from the previous owner for years, fought tooth and nail, ultimately securing his small plot at the top of the vineyard in sole defiance of the Lafon juggernaut. "The 2023 Clos du Four is a beautiful example of its vineyard, offering everything you'd want from the Lafon version at nearly half the price," writes B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz. In a similar vein, Vincent Girardin's 2023 Cuvée St-Vincent Bourgogne Chardonnay is, in fact, made mostly from declassified Meursault vines, with a small balance of Puligny and Chassagne fruit rounding out the composition, so there's no question where the wine derives its outsized character. Andrew explains, "We came across a number of great values on our last trip to Burgundy, but nothing held a candle to this one when it came to Chardonnays in this price tier." B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's 2023 Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages. Along with John Gilman's glowing 93-point review, our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Turning to one of our most rewarding domaine-direct relationships for several years now, the 2023 Domaine Feuillat-Juillot Montagny Les Coeres 1er Cru is "a superb quality-to-price performer, not just for white Burg fans but for anyone who loves well-crafted Chardonnay." From a significant holding of 60-year-old vines in Montagny's most famous cru, the 2023 shows its clay-calcaire soils and old-vine pedigree in a rounded, utterly charming style that truly offers something for everyone. No hard edges, graceful balance, and upfront personality all make for another fine entry in the track record of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, with 95 points from James Suckling's Burgundy critic, Stuart Pigott, the 2022 Famille Paquet Saint-Véran En Creches is endowed with "excellent concentration [and] so much chalky energy and citric freshness." This vineyard on the border of Davayé and Vergisson is just downslope from the famed Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru La Roche, and its ideal combination of shallow clay topsoils and limestone sub-stratum makes for the kind of excellent Chardonnay pedigree from which all great white Burgundy comes. As you can see, we've done our digging, and whether you're looking for an easy pick to enjoy today, or something you can stock up on and come back to over and over again for a few years, there's a surefire winner or three in this list for you. | ||
|
||
| 2024 Capichera Vermentino di Gallura Superiore Vign'angena (750ml) | ||
| Vermentino from Sardinia, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More It seems Italy's white wine scene is getting better and better with each vintage, and you can now add the 97-point 2024 Capichera Vermentino Vigna'angena to the list of the country's benchmark, native-grape expressions. Arguably the finest estate in Sardinia's Gallura DOCG. The recent acquisition of the estate by Italian wine entrepreneur Carlo Campanini Bonomi has ensured that this iconic property not only remains a standard-bearer for the island, but that it takes its game to next level by staying true to its singular terroir. Bonomi considers the property to be one of great heritage, and it's his responsibility to carry that heritage forward. To that end, his extensive investments since his purchase are now paying off big time, as we clearly see in this stunning tete de cuvée. Harvested entirely from estate vineyards, the Vigna'angena is quintessential Vermentino, with an intense mineral backbone balanced by full-ish weight and texture. The original vision of Capichera's founder is on full display in this latest rendition under the estate's new ownership - to produce the finest expressions of an Italian winemaking tradition that dates back a thousand years, and to position the estate as its global ambassador. Based on the 2024 Vigna'angena, we'd say they're succeeding with flying colors. | ||
|
||
