2021 Castello di Bolgheri Rosso Varvara (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Sauvignon from Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As impressive as the iconic cypress-lined road leading to its cellars in the medieval village of Bolgheri, the elegant 93 pt. 2021 Castello di Bolgheri Rosso Varvara is a sultry Super Tuscan blend expressing the exceptional terroir of this historic estate, revealing layers of luscious rich dark fruit hinting of peppery spice and wild sage with elegant tannins on a long and silky finish, standing shoulder to shoulder with the region’s heavy hitters at a fraction of the price. Considered the oldest estate in Bolgheri dating back to the 13th century, the cellar of Castello di Bolgheri within the walls of the Bolgheri hamlet dates back to 1796, its owner Federico Zileri Dal Verme, the descendant of an uninterrupted line of royal family proprietorship, credited with transforming the estate since taking the reins in the 1990’s. Transitioning from growing local varieties of grapes to Bordeaux varietals, 30th generation Zileri replanted the estate’s vineyards along Tuscany’s famed cypress-lined Viale dei Cipressi mainly with Cabernet Sauvignon along with Bordeaux varietals, releasing his family’s first Super Tuscan blend in 2004 while also selling grapes to the estate’s high profile neighbors Sassicaia and Ornellaia, both estates part of the family’s original holdings prior to being divided by inheritance. Situated in Tuscany’s coastal Bolgheri DOC, the Castello di Bolgheri vineyard boasts a calcareous soil of clay, sand and limestone with the rows of vines running perpendicular to the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea, benefiting from cooling marine breezes during the hot summer days and milder temperatures in winter and receiving full sun exposure for optimal ripening. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot harvested by hand, the refined 2021 Castello di Bolgheri Rosso Varvara was aged for 12 months in a mix of 500 liter and 35 hectoliter oak barrels, described by James Suckling as boasting a “weighty core of dark berries with compact and fine tannins” and “already showing beautifully” according to Jeb Dunnuck critic Audrey Frick, its robust structure promising to evolve over the next decade and beyond. From an outstanding vintage producing reds that “impress with stunning beauty, finesse and exceptional balance” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the rich and savory 93 pt. 2021 Castello di Bolgheri Rosso Varvara is an underrated gem sourced from prime Bolgheri terroir, value priced to deliver years of pleasurable drinking for Italian wine lovers and fans of rich Super Tuscan blends. | ||
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2020 Domaine de la Charbonniere Rouge (750ml) | ||
Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More “Harmonious and well made” James Suckling From a “charming, forward vintage” producing “a sea of beautifully textured” wines according to Jeb Dunnuck, the elegant 94 pt. 2020 Domaine de la Charbonniere Chateauneuf du Pape Rouge offers fresh aromatic garrigue-laden fruit perfectly balanced by vibrant, velvety tannins on a lingering, graphite-scented finish, a deliciously silky CDP ready to enjoy for years to come at a terrific value price. Founded by the Maret family in 1914, third generation Michel Maret inherited Domaine de la Charbonniere from his father in 1973 and has worked alongside his talented daughters Caroline and Veronique since 2004, producing an array of CDP’s that have steadily risen in quality over the last two decades. Sourced from across 19.5 hectares of vineyards in Chateauneuf du Pape, the estate’s holding include 50 year old vines in the Charbonniere lieu-dit as well as a parcel in Le Crau adjacent to Vieux Telegraphe with vines averaging 75 years of age, planted in clay sandy soils strewn with the region’s renowned rounded stones called galets roules. Hand harvesting with selective sorting and employing minimal intervention in the cellar, winemaker Veronique Maret vinified the 70% Grenache and 15% Syrah together and the 15% Mourvedre separately before aging the refined 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape mainly in wooden vats with small amounts in foudre, tank and used barrels, yielding a smooth, traditionally styled CDP with fresh acidity and well-integrated tannins built to “age gracefully” according to Jeb Dunnuck. Described by Vinous critic Nicolas Greinacher as offering “divine drinking pleasure,” the fresh and appealing 94 pt. 2020 Domaine de la Charbonniere Rouge ranks among the top-scoring Chateauneuf du Pape's of the vintage for far less than the region's higher profile estates, a top value CDP for Southern Rhone collectors to savor over the next decade. | ||
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2016 Caiarossa (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Franc from Tuscany, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More An array of elegant, top scoring Super Tuscan blends from outstanding vintages, these exceptional Caiarossa selections are crafted from an exceptional terroir above Bolgheri with French expertise, the estate's flagship cuvee described as “one of the Italian wines closest to Bordeaux both in DNA and winemaking” by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner and unbeatably priced at a fraction of nearby Sassicaia and Ornellaia for Tuscan wine lovers and collectors to stock the cellar and enjoy often. Located on the northern Tuscan coast near the beautiful hilltop town of Riparbella, the wooded 100 hectare Caiarossa estate boasts sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, its hilly terrain covered with the brilliant red or “rossa” gravelly soil for which it is named and enjoying a steady rise in quality under the ownership of the Albada Jelgersma family since 2004, also owners of Bordeaux estates du Tertre and Giscours. Spread across three sites averaging 600 meters above sea level, the estate’s biodynamically farmed vineyards are planted with eight different red varietals of Bordeaux and Rhone grapes as well as Tuscany’s native Sangiovese, the blend varying from vintage but maintaining a consistent style under Decanter Rising Star consultant Alex Marchal who ferments the varietals separately with native yeasts before aging the blend in a mix of new and used French oak barrels and resting it in concrete before further time in bottle. Earning a spot on James Suckling’s Top 100 Italian Wines of 2019, the elegant 97 pt. 2016 Caiarossa is a harmonious blend of mostly Cabernet Franc with Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot described by the Wine Spectator’s Bruce Sanderson as “youthful and fresh, with a firm structure and a long, saturated finish of dark fruit” and ready to enjoy over the next decade. A blend of mostly Cabernet Franc and Syrah with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and a little Grenache, the stunning 96 pt. 2019 Caiarossa is “balanced and fresh” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner boasting “thick layers of dark fruit, crushed stone, tobacco and exotic spice,” that promises to evolve over the next few decades. Described as “rich, deep and yet not at all heavy” by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the refined 95 pt. 2020 Caiarossa is “an ambitious blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Syrah and Alicante” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, summed up as “well executed with lots of fragrance and a mineral, stone grip on the finish” by Decanter’s Georgina Hindle. A blend of mostly Syrah with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and Grenache, the powerful and refined 96 pt. 2021 Caiarossa boasts “fine depth to the dark fruit flavors, plus a terrific aftertaste that really persists” according to the Wine Spectator’s Bruce Sanderson, already drinking beautifully and showing the potential to age beautifully over the next decades. Described by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner as a "gem of an estate," these flagship Caiarossa selections boast a winning combination of “drinkability and complexity” according to critic James Suckling’s who calls Caiarossa one of his “go to” Tuscan reds, standing shoulder to shoulder with the region's high profile Super Tuscans at an unbeatable price. | ||
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2020 Felsina Chianti Classico Riserva (750ml) | ||
Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Crafted by one of Chianti Classsico’s “flagship estates” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, these highly rated Felsina selections are priced to deliver top value for Italian wine collectors and Felsina fans, a range of Tuscan treasures from one of the region’s most esteemed producers unbeatably priced whether choosing a few favorites or for mixing a case. Located in the butterfly-shaped Castelnuovo Berardenga subregion in southernmost Chianti Classico, the historic 600-hectare Fattoria di Felsina estate has remained family owned since its purchase by Domenico Poggiali Felsina in 1966, rising to the top of appellation under the direction of Giuseppe Mazzocolin for over four decades and now run by Domenico’s son Giovanni Poggiali. Produced from the estate’s 95 hectares of biodynamically farmed vineyards, the fresh and refined 93 pt. 2021 Felsina Chianti Classico Berardenga is described as “a fantastic entry point for the Felsina range” by Jeb Dunnuck, a lush Sangiovese boasting earthy dark fruit and vibrant acidity that “readers should consider buying by the case,” according to Vinous critic Galloni. Earning the #22 spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2023, the rich and sultry 94 pt. 2020 Felsina Chianti Classico Riserva offers soft fruit flavors with “pretty mineral notes and light spice” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner boasting the structure to evolve over the next few decades. Crafted from 100% Sangiovese grown in Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi, Vinous critic Antonio Galloni calls the mineral-driven 96 pt. 2020 Felsina Fontalloro “a sensual, enveloping wine” revealing savory Sangiovese fruit hinting of wild herbs that captures “Sangiovese’s untamed side” according to Decanter’s Michaela Morris. The lesser known jewel of the Felsina portfolio and a “terrific, terrific value” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, the silky 95 pt. 2020 Felsina Maestro Raro is a powerful, refined expression of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon “of unusual complexity as well as pedigree” according to critic Galloni built to enjoy over the next decade. Boasting an “extraordinary ability to convey the essence of variety, place and vintage” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, these top rated Felsina wines reflect the estate’s rich legacy as standard bearers in Chianti Classico, meticulously crafting wines of “distinction and elegance” and all delivering outstanding value. | ||
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2019 Chateau Cantemerle (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Sauvignon from Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you missed any of these outstanding selections the first time around or simply need to restock, here's a chance to acquire some top rated Bordeaux blends from the exceptional 2019 vintage at bargain prices, all scoring 92 pts. and above in a range of styles, perfect for mixing a case or two or choosing a few favorites and all impressive values under $35. Described as “superb” by Neal Martin of Vinous, Bernard Magrez's 93 pt. 2019 Chateau Les Grands Chenes offers lush dark Cabernet Sauvignon fruit from the producer of Chateau Pape Clement, this Cru Bourgeois estate “making some of the best value wines of the Medoc” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson. Sourced from Bordeaux’s Left Bank, the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated 92 pt. Chateau Senejac offers “great energy and brightness” that’s ready to enjoy now according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle. Crafted of even parts Cab Franc and Merlot by superstar Stephane Derenoncourt, Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls the 93 pt. 2019 Bel-Air Jean & Gabriel “impeccable,” and “especially fine for Lussac where the wines are rarely this polished,” while the Delon’s family 94 pt. 2019 Chateau Potensac is produced with the same meticulous attention to detail as their iconic Grand Vin from Chateau Leoville Las Cases and “showing beautifully” according to Jeb Dunnuck, calling it a “wine to buy in multiples or a case.” Named a Cellar Selection by the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss, the stunning 95 pt. 2019 Chateau Laffitte Carcasset “packs a ton of punch” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, while the 93 pt. 2019 Clos Marsalette is “impeccable from start to finish.” Calling it “a consistently successful Neipperg wine in Pessac,” from the owner of Chateau Canon La Gaffeliere, Jane Anson of Inside Bordeaux notes the muscular 94 pt. 2019 Chateau Meyney has “plenty of texture and swagger” promising over a decade of evolution ahead. Boasting ageworthy structure promising years of enjoyment, these highly rated 2019 Bordeaux bargains offer Bordeaux lovers and collectors an opportunity to stock up and enjoy top scording Bordeaux often without breaking the bank, delivered in perfect provenance at best on the market prices. | ||
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2023 Frank Family Vineyard Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
Chardonnay from Carneros, California | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Frank Family Vineyards has earned a loyal following for their consistently outstanding wines priced well below their fellow Napa competitors, and these Napa Valley selections are no exception, a spectrum of ready-to-enjoy wines from outstanding California vintages, ranging from their opulent Carneros Chardonnay to a top-scoring Napa Cab described as “superb” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, all delivering exceptional value. Working from 380 acres of estate vineyards in Carneros, Rutherford, and Capell Valley, long-time winemaker and GM Todd Graff employs the same barrel aging across the entire Napa line-up, utilizing a mix of one-third new French oak barrels with one-third once-used barrels and one-third twice-used barrels. Sourced from cooler climate vineyards in Carneros, the luscious 2023 Frank Family Vineyard Chardonnay balances rich, fragrant fruit and a creamy texture from lees stirring with bright acidity, while the aromatic 2022 Frank Family Pinot Noir reveals fresh, juicy fruit hinting of earthy spice with vibrant acidity on a satiny finish. The 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel offers ripe, dark bramble fruit layered with pepper and spice from estate vineyards in Capell Valley and Rutherford, while the smooth and satisfying, 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon contains well-integrated tannins that promise a decade of longevity. A range of deliciously appealing Napa Valley wines that over-deliver, these Frank Family Vineyards selections reflect Frank Family’s trademark consistency and quality, guaranteed to please at a price that won’t break the bank. | ||
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2019 Chateau Troplong Mondot (750ml) | ||
Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Here’s an exciting opportunity to enjoy a vertical of outstanding new releases from Chateau Troplong Mondot, three incredibly promising vintages garnering multiple 100 pt. scores and wowing critics across the board, each built for three decades of pleasurable drinking and unbeatably priced to over deliver value. Perched in a spectacular location with a 360-degree view overlooking St. Emilion, Chateau Troplong Mondot is marked by the prominent water tower at St. Emilion’s highest point, its stunning new cellars viewed from above on a glass catwalk reflecting the estate’s dramatic transformation since its purchase by insurance company SCOR in 2017. Immediately hiring Bordeaux veteran Aymeric de Gironde, formerly of Pichon Baron and Cos d’Estournel, to lead the estate, Troplong Mondot pivoted to a classical, terroir-driven style, identifying the unique qualities of even the smallest parcels of its organically farmed 65 hectares of vineyards and reducing the amount of new oak to allow their rich minerality to shine through, described by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson as reflecting “a more evident respect for the powerful terroir that does not need to be overly dressed up” under the guidance of renowned consulting enologist Thomas Duclos. Vinified in vats instead of barrels to preserve freshness, the 98 pt. 2018 Chateau Troplong Mondot is “simply breathtaking” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, aged in 60% new oak with a small percentage in large vats and amphorae to yield a Troplong with “brighter red fruit flavors” that’s “backed by a distinct flinty minerality” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth. Earning the #13 spot of the Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Cellar Selections 2022, the “perfect” 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Troplong Mondot is “impressive” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, with chalky limestone tannins that “speaks of its soils,” boasting “a satisfying overall mouthful and lasting impression” according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle who sums it up as “incredible.” Declared “one of the Right Bank’s finest wines in this vintage” by the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley with another perfect score – the “fabulous” 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Troplong Mondot is “wonderfully exuberant right out of the gate” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, with aromatic, rich dark fruit described as “powerful and dense” by the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss that “ends with a whoosh of freshness and lift” according to Jane Anson. Describing these recent vintages as marking “the upward trajectory and unveiling of the new expression of this very special site at Troplong Mondot,” the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley declared, “what an exhilarating ride this is!” while Jeb Dunnuck unequivocally declares “there is no denying the incredible quality from this chateau today” – these value priced Chateau Troplong Mondot selections offering an exciting opportunity for Bordeaux fans and collectors to mix a case or pick a few favorites and jump aboard St. Emilion’s rising star for the thrilling journey ahead. | ||
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2022 Frank Family Vineyard Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
Pinot Noir from Carneros, California | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Frank Family Vineyards has earned a loyal following for their consistently outstanding wines priced well below their fellow Napa competitors, and these Napa Valley selections are no exception, a spectrum of ready-to-enjoy wines from outstanding California vintages, ranging from their opulent Carneros Chardonnay to a top-scoring Napa Cab described as “superb” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, all delivering exceptional value. Working from 380 acres of estate vineyards in Carneros, Rutherford, and Capell Valley, long-time winemaker and GM Todd Graff employs the same barrel aging across the entire Napa line-up, utilizing a mix of one-third new French oak barrels with one-third once-used barrels and one-third twice-used barrels. Sourced from cooler climate vineyards in Carneros, the luscious 2023 Frank Family Vineyard Chardonnay balances rich, fragrant fruit and a creamy texture from lees stirring with bright acidity, while the aromatic 2022 Frank Family Pinot Noir reveals fresh, juicy fruit hinting of earthy spice with vibrant acidity on a satiny finish. The 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel offers ripe, dark bramble fruit layered with pepper and spice from estate vineyards in Capell Valley and Rutherford, while the smooth and satisfying, 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon contains well-integrated tannins that promise a decade of longevity. A range of deliciously appealing Napa Valley wines that over-deliver, these Frank Family Vineyards selections reflect Frank Family’s trademark consistency and quality, guaranteed to please at a price that won’t break the bank. | ||
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2021 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Earning the #2 spot on the Wine Spectator’s Top 10 Wine Values of 2023, the impressive 93 pt. 2021 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon boasts rich aromatic dark fruit hinting of earthy cedar and spice with fresh acidity and fine tannins, crafted by the pioneers of Australia’s Margaret River renowned for “elegant and wonderfully pure Cabernet Sauvignons” according to Angus Hughson of Vinous and delivering outstanding bang for the buck for Cab lovers seeking a value priced everyday pour. A key player in establishing Australia’s remote Margaret River peninsula as one of the top Cabernet Sauvignon growing regions, Vasse Felix founder Tom Cullity planted his first commercial vineyards in the 1960’s, the estate expanding its holdings to over 300 hectares over the next decades and now run by second generation Paul Holmes a Court whose family has owned and operated Vasse since 1987. Located nearly three hours south of the Western Australian capital of Perth, the Margaret River enjoys a warm and dry Mediterranean climate with a long growing season allowing for optimal ripening and flavor development, while maritime breezes from the surrounding Southern and Indian Oceans keep the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes dry and disease free and preserve acidity. Credited with driving the steadily rising quality at Vasse Felix by Vinous critic Hughson, longtime winemaker Virginia Willcock blended mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Malbec and Petit Verdot from across the estate’s sustainably farmed vineyards, fermenting with wild yeasts and aging the 2021 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon in a mix of 1 to 5 year old French oak barrique for 11 months, yielding a “powerfully structured” Cab according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Christina Pickard that’s crafted to be enjoyed young and built to evolve over the next decade. Described as “one of the region's standard-bearers” by the Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski, the rich and vibrant 93 pt. 2021 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon transparently expresses the distinctive Margaret River combination of “elegant structure and juicy fruit flavors” according to the Wine Spectator’s MaryAnn Worobiec, a great deal for fans of boldly structured Aussie Cabs at an easy to reach for price. | ||
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2017 La Rioja Alta Reserva Vina Ardanza (750ml) | ||
Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described as “a wine that embodies the long history of Rioja” by Joaquin Hidalgo of Vinous, the 95-point 2017 La Rioja Alta Reserva Vina Ardanza hits the mark as one of the region’s finest classically styled reds, offering fragrant, juicy dark fruit impeccably balanced by refined, polished tannins on a lingering finish. Named one of the Top 100 Wines of Spain in 2023 by James Suckling, it's an alluring Rioja ready to enjoy over the next decade at an unbeatable price. La Rioja Alta is renowned for releasing its wines late with extended aging, its massive cellars filled with “the equivalent of eight years in stock” according to Wine Advocate’s Luis Gutierrez. Produced only in top vintages, the 2017 Reserva Vina Ardanza came from vines over 30 years of age in the Rioja Alta sub-region, along with Garnacha from the hotter and drier 40-hectare La Pedriza vineyard, a Rioja Oriental parcel considered prime terroir for optimal ripening. Employing traditional techniques including manual racking by candlelight and fermenting with indigenous yeasts, the refined 2017 Reserva Vina Ardanza aged separately in a mix of 20% new and three-year-old American oak barrels for up to three years, with the final blend spending three more years in bottle before release, yielding “a vibrant red wine with harmonious balance” according to Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo. Critic Tim Atkin calls the elegant, 95-point 2017 La Rioja Alta Reserva Vina Ardanza “a delicious release” reflecting the iconic estate’s reputation “for producing wines that are good to drink on release, but also age beautifully in bottle.” It's a winning combination for Rioja lovers of all stripes. | ||
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2021 Marietta Christo (750ml) | ||
Syrah from California | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From a California vintage described as “amazing” by James Suckling, these highly rated 2021 Marietta Cellars selection are crafted in a “deliciously drinkable style” according to Jeb Dunnuck, a wide range of vineyard-focused cuvees sourced exclusively from estate fruit and affordably priced for stocking up by the case. Established by third generation Sonoma native Chris Bilbro over four decades ago, Marietta Cellars has continued its founder’s legacy of producing exceptional, reasonably priced California wines under his son Scot since 2012, sourcing the portfolio from over 400 acres of organically farmed estate vineyards. Crafted from mostly old vine Syrah dating back to the late 1800’s, the sumptuous 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Christo boasts ripe, succulent dark fruit hinting of peppery herbs with zesty acidity, a silky Rhone blend with integrated tannins promising to evolve over the next decade. Among the vintage’s top-rated Zins and “sure to be a crowd pleaser of a wine” according to Jeb Dunnuck critic Audrey Frick, the bright and juicy 95 pt. 2021 Marietta Roman Zinfandel boasts aromatic, spiced fruit with zesty acidity and silky textured tannins, while the powerful 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Arme is an impressive Bordeaux style blend dominated by rich California Cabernet Sauvignon described as “incredibly elegant” by the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks. Sourced from the 35-acre Angeli Vineyard first planted in the late 1880’s, the 96 pt. 2021 Marietta Angeli is a blend of old vine Zinfandel with small amounts of Petite Sirah and Syrah aged in neutral barrels, offering bright, spiced fruit with a seamless, silky texture and harmonious tannins built to satisfy a Zinfandel craving over the next decade and called “absolutely delicious” by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni. A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from a 10-acre parcel perched at 1400 feet above sea level in the McDowell Valley, the intensely aromatic 94 pt. 2021 Marietta Game Trail Cabernet Sauvignon offers rich, dark fruit hinting of wild herbs on a lingering mineral finish, transparently expressing its mountain origins with “strong, textural tannins and driven by a generous dose of acidity” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Stacy Brisco. Sourced from old vine Syrah planted over a century ago, the powerful 95 pt. 2021 Marietta Gibson Block Syrah is “intensely bold and savory” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, revealing richly concentrated fruit hinting of graphite with refined, integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, summed up as “absolutely delicious” by critic Galloni and promising to mature gracefully in the cellar for another ten years or more. Living up to Marietta’s long-time reputation for over delivering value, Antonio Galloni of Vinous declared “Scot Bilbro has the magic touch when it comes to crafting wines that deliver superb quality for the money across the various tiers in this range,” these unbeatably priced 2021 Marietta selections an opportunity for Marietta fans to stock up on their favorites and for newbies to mix a case and enjoy Marietta’s combination of exceptional quality and outstanding bang for the buck. | ||
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2021 Marietta Zinfandel Roman (750ml) | ||
Zinfandel from North Coast, California | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From a California vintage described as “amazing” by James Suckling, these highly rated 2021 Marietta Cellars selection are crafted in a “deliciously drinkable style” according to Jeb Dunnuck, a wide range of vineyard-focused cuvees sourced exclusively from estate fruit and affordably priced for stocking up by the case. Established by third generation Sonoma native Chris Bilbro over four decades ago, Marietta Cellars has continued its founder’s legacy of producing exceptional, reasonably priced California wines under his son Scot since 2012, sourcing the portfolio from over 400 acres of organically farmed estate vineyards. Crafted from mostly old vine Syrah dating back to the late 1800’s, the sumptuous 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Christo boasts ripe, succulent dark fruit hinting of peppery herbs with zesty acidity, a silky Rhone blend with integrated tannins promising to evolve over the next decade. Among the vintage’s top-rated Zins and “sure to be a crowd pleaser of a wine” according to Jeb Dunnuck critic Audrey Frick, the bright and juicy 95 pt. 2021 Marietta Roman Zinfandel boasts aromatic, spiced fruit with zesty acidity and silky textured tannins, while the powerful 93 pt. 2021 Marietta Arme is an impressive Bordeaux style blend dominated by rich California Cabernet Sauvignon described as “incredibly elegant” by the Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks. Sourced from the 35-acre Angeli Vineyard first planted in the late 1880’s, the 96 pt. 2021 Marietta Angeli is a blend of old vine Zinfandel with small amounts of Petite Sirah and Syrah aged in neutral barrels, offering bright, spiced fruit with a seamless, silky texture and harmonious tannins built to satisfy a Zinfandel craving over the next decade and called “absolutely delicious” by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni. A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from a 10-acre parcel perched at 1400 feet above sea level in the McDowell Valley, the intensely aromatic 94 pt. 2021 Marietta Game Trail Cabernet Sauvignon offers rich, dark fruit hinting of wild herbs on a lingering mineral finish, transparently expressing its mountain origins with “strong, textural tannins and driven by a generous dose of acidity” according to the Wine Enthusiast’s Stacy Brisco. Sourced from old vine Syrah planted over a century ago, the powerful 95 pt. 2021 Marietta Gibson Block Syrah is “intensely bold and savory” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, revealing richly concentrated fruit hinting of graphite with refined, integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, summed up as “absolutely delicious” by critic Galloni and promising to mature gracefully in the cellar for another ten years or more. Living up to Marietta’s long-time reputation for over delivering value, Antonio Galloni of Vinous declared “Scot Bilbro has the magic touch when it comes to crafting wines that deliver superb quality for the money across the various tiers in this range,” these unbeatably priced 2021 Marietta selections an opportunity for Marietta fans to stock up on their favorites and for newbies to mix a case and enjoy Marietta’s combination of exceptional quality and outstanding bang for the buck. | ||
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2020 Vajra Barolo Albe (750ml) | ||
Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Agreed! It’s hard to overstate the incredible “quality to price ratio” of the stellar 94 pt. 2020 G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe, crafted by one of Piedmont’s most iconic producers and garnering critical acclaim across the board, its fresh, aromatic dark fruit redolent of classic floral notes and crushed stone with shimmering acidity and a lush tannic structure built for over a decade of enjoyment, now at exceptional private client pricing for savvy Barolo collectors to stock up by the case. With a family history in the Piedmont dating back to the late 1800’s, the pioneering Aldo Vaira established GD Vajra in 1972, naming it after his father Giuseppe Domenico and boldly using the original spelling of the family’s name despite the letter “J” being banned from the Italian alphabet during dictator Mussolini’s tenure. Named for the sunrises (“albe” in Italian) visible from the estate’s high elevation sites, the 2020 Albe was sourced from across Vajra’s 40 hectares of organically certified vineyards, a blend of Barolo DOCG parcels with varied exposures ranging from south, southeast to southwest at elevations between 380 and 480 meters above sea level. After sorting the Nebbiolo grapes manually three times and vinifying them in custom-designed vertical tanks, the fresh and refined 2020 Vajra Barolo Albe was aged in a mix of different sized large Slavonian oak casks for 26 months, yielding a beautifully balanced Barolo that’s “all about sheer drinking pleasure” according to critic Kerin O’Keefe, already approachable and continuing to develop complexity and nuance as it matures gracefully in the cellar. A richly textured, harmonious Barolo boasting “seductive appeal” according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the enticing 94 pt. 2020 Vajra Barolo Albe reflects G.D. Vajra's expertise and signature style for crafting terroir expressive wines, declared “one of the greatest values to be found in Italian wine” by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner and unbeatably priced to enjoy over the next decade and beyond. | ||
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2019 Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone della Valpolicella (750ml) | ||
From Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A comprehensive selection from Tedeschi reflecting "a sense of place in Valpolicella" according to Eric Guido of Vinous, these highly rated reds from Italy's pioneering producer of vineyard-driven Valpolicella and Amarone offer a full range of complexity from the easy drinking 90 pt. 2022 Tedeschi Lucchine to the inviting 97 pt. 2019 Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone and the powerful single vineyard 95 pt. 2015 Tedeschi Capitel Monte Olmi Riserva Amarone, a terrific value priced opportunity for anyone looking to explore the wines of the region as well as Amarone lovers seeking a great deal for building a case. Located in northern Italy’s Veneto region east of Lake Garda, Tedeschi produces red wines in a range of styles, from fresh and approachable Valpolicella to rich and age worthy Amarone and long-lived Riservas, crafted as different blends from the native grapes Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone along with a smaller percentage of lesser-known indigenous varietals. Inspired by the diverse range of terroirs across their 48 hectares of steep, hillside vineyards, the Tedeschi’s were the first in the region to build their portfolio to express the specific characteristics of the individual parcels, the estate now run by fifth generation family members Riccardo, Sabrina and Antonietta under the mentorship of their father Lorenzo. Crafted without the use of any oak, the fresh and lively 90 pt. 2022 Tedeschi Lucchine Valpolicella offers bright red fruit with notes of sour cherry and vibrant acidity, a refreshing and food friendly Valpolicella to enjoy slightly chilled over the next five years and summed up by James Suckling as “delicious.” Crafted as a harmonious blend from across their vineyards, the harvested grapes for the Marne 180 Amarone della Valpolicella are dried to half their original size during the appassimento process used to make Amarone, undergoing a complex transformation that decreases acidity and enhances flavors, the blend aged for around 30 months in large Slavonian casks followed by at least 6 months in bottle before release. Described as “delicious even now” by James Suckling, the richly textured 93 pt. 2017 Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone is ready to enjoy with structure for cellaring, offering aromatic, succulent fruit hinting of spiced raisin with smooth acidity and a mineral-driven finish, while the lush 2019 97 pt. Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone promises a decade of evolution, revealing ripe spiced fruit and saline-tinged minerality with well-integrated tannins on a long, juicy finish. Sourced from the steep terraced Monte Olmi parcel planted in limestone-rich soils at around 160 meters above sea level, Tedeschi’s Monte Olmi Riserva was among the region’s first single vineyard Amarones first released in the 1960’s, the blend aged in Slavonia oak for 48 months with a minimum of 6 months more in bottle. After spending 10 years maturing in bottle, the full-bodied 95 pt. 2013 Tedeschi Capitel Monte Olmi Riserva Amarone is described as offering “an unbelievable amount of vibrant, unbridled energy” by Eric Guido of Vinous, its enticing aromatic spiced fruit balanced with fine grained tannins on a silky finish while the opulent 95 pt. 2016 Tedeschi Capitel Monte Olmi Riserva Amarone is “is a sumptuous wine of both power and precision” according to James Suckling, promising to evolve for over a decade. Described as “fabulous values” by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, these appealing selections from Tedeschi reflect the family’s long legacy as expert growers in the region, a range of refined and balanced vineyard driven Valpolicella wines to enjoy now and over the next decade, bargain priced at a fraction of the region’s higher profile producers and over delivering value. | ||
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2019 Caiarossa (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Franc from Tuscany, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More An array of elegant, top scoring Super Tuscan blends from outstanding vintages, these exceptional Caiarossa selections are crafted from an exceptional terroir above Bolgheri with French expertise, the estate's flagship cuvee described as “one of the Italian wines closest to Bordeaux both in DNA and winemaking” by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner and unbeatably priced at a fraction of nearby Sassicaia and Ornellaia for Tuscan wine lovers and collectors to stock the cellar and enjoy often. Located on the northern Tuscan coast near the beautiful hilltop town of Riparbella, the wooded 100 hectare Caiarossa estate boasts sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, its hilly terrain covered with the brilliant red or “rossa” gravelly soil for which it is named and enjoying a steady rise in quality under the ownership of the Albada Jelgersma family since 2004, also owners of Bordeaux estates du Tertre and Giscours. Spread across three sites averaging 600 meters above sea level, the estate’s biodynamically farmed vineyards are planted with eight different red varietals of Bordeaux and Rhone grapes as well as Tuscany’s native Sangiovese, the blend varying from vintage but maintaining a consistent style under Decanter Rising Star consultant Alex Marchal who ferments the varietals separately with native yeasts before aging the blend in a mix of new and used French oak barrels and resting it in concrete before further time in bottle. Earning a spot on James Suckling’s Top 100 Italian Wines of 2019, the elegant 97 pt. 2016 Caiarossa is a harmonious blend of mostly Cabernet Franc with Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot described by the Wine Spectator’s Bruce Sanderson as “youthful and fresh, with a firm structure and a long, saturated finish of dark fruit” and ready to enjoy over the next decade. A blend of mostly Cabernet Franc and Syrah with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and a little Grenache, the stunning 96 pt. 2019 Caiarossa is “balanced and fresh” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner boasting “thick layers of dark fruit, crushed stone, tobacco and exotic spice,” that promises to evolve over the next few decades. Described as “rich, deep and yet not at all heavy” by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the refined 95 pt. 2020 Caiarossa is “an ambitious blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Syrah and Alicante” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, summed up as “well executed with lots of fragrance and a mineral, stone grip on the finish” by Decanter’s Georgina Hindle. A blend of mostly Syrah with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and Grenache, the powerful and refined 96 pt. 2021 Caiarossa boasts “fine depth to the dark fruit flavors, plus a terrific aftertaste that really persists” according to the Wine Spectator’s Bruce Sanderson, already drinking beautifully and showing the potential to age beautifully over the next decades. Described by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner as a "gem of an estate," these flagship Caiarossa selections boast a winning combination of “drinkability and complexity” according to critic James Suckling’s who calls Caiarossa one of his “go to” Tuscan reds, standing shoulder to shoulder with the region's high profile Super Tuscans at an unbeatable price. | ||
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2022 Brocard Chablis Ste. Claire (750ml) | ||
Chardonnay from Chablis, Burgundy, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Ranging from fresh, entry-level cuvées to robustly structured 1ers and grands crus, these top-scoring selections from Jean Marc Brocard overdeliver on value for fans of white Burgundy seeking pure, reference-point terroir expressions. In a single generation, the Brocard family has gone from 1.5-hectares of vines to one of Chablis' household names and a top-selling favorite among Burgundy fans at B-21. Once again, the 91-point 2022 Chablis Ste. Claire is “one of the hidden gems from Brocard” according to Neal Martin of Vinous, while the vibrant, 94-point 2022 Vieilles Vignes de Sainte Claire is "certainly pushing premier cru quality, if not even higher," for under $30. The richly concentrated, flagship 2022 Vieilles Vignes de 1946, sourced from a single plot of low-yielding vines planted near the winery just after the end of World War II, notched 93 points for its "dense and rich style" that's simultaneously "very classy and fine." Brocard’s highly rated 1ers and grands crus are led by the stunning, 94-point 2022 1er Cru Vaulorent from the sole 1er cru vineyard on the Grand Cru hill, a richly elegant rendition with notable concentration and fresh, focused acidity. Ranked #8 on Decanter’s Top 10 Grand Cru Chablis of 2022, the textbook, 95-point 2022 Valmur Grand Cru offers fresh, ripe lightly spiced fruit with well-balanced minerality and a lingering salinity, a rich and harmonious Grand Cru promising to develop over the next decade. These impressive 2022 Jean Marc Brocard selections elegantly balance the vintage’s ripeness with fresh acidity and enticing minerality. They're easily some of Burgundy’s most brilliant quality-for-price buys, masterfully crafted by one of the region’s top producers. | ||
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2021 Cecchi Chianti Classico Storia di Famiglia (750ml) | ||
Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declaring it “the single greatest young vintage I have ever tasted in Chianti Classico,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls 2021 “a vintage to buy deep,” this treasure trove of top scoring entry level Chianti Classico wines a terrific opportunity for Sangiovese fans to stock the cellar at a bargain price. Starting off with a mild, wet winter, the optimal 2021 growing season in Chianti Classico had sufficient rainfall reserves to allow the vines to thrive in the hot and dry summer, and with well-timed periods of rain in late August, the picture-perfect vintage yielded lower quantities of high quality, concentrated grapes expressing pure Sangiovese character with vibrant acidity.
Describing the 2021 Chianti Classico wines as offering “wonderful concentration, impeccable freshness, and outstanding structure,” Jeb Dunnuck critic Audrey Frick highly recommends Chianti Classico lovers “snap up the entry level wines from this vintage,” this value packed offer a terrific opportunity to enjoy some seriously delicious Sangiovese wines from a stellar vintage at an unbeatable price. | ||
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2018 Chateau La Vieille Cure (750ml) | ||
Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Always a winner, I can't remember the last vintage of this cuvée that didn't put a smile on my face." - Jeb Dunnuck Declared “so reliable” by Jane Anson that it’s “a bellwether to the success of a vintage,” Château La Vieille Cure is considered the standard bearer for Fronsac, its exceptional consistency over the last decade driven by winemaker Jean-Luc Thunevin, the original garagiste pioneer and owner of Château Valandraud, who took the reins in 2013. The 20-hectare La Vieille Cure vineyard is situated in a single, contiguous plot facing Pomerol, planted mostly to Merlot vines averaging 40 years of age with the oldest at over 75 years. This trio of value stunners from Bordeaux's famed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 puts Anson's words into full perspective, as each rendition captures the quintessential character of the vintage while offering the unmistakable signature of this benchmark Fronsac terroir. Defined by the vintage's power and opulence, the seductive 2018 La Vieille Cure "is a total pleasure bomb" according to Antonio Galloni, "In a word: fabulous." Jeb Dunnuck likewise sums it up as "a smoking wine that readers should snatch up!" The slightly more refined and approachable 94-point 2019 (again, a hallmark of the vintage) is "just an impeccably made, satisfying, classic Right Bank beauty." Rounding out this run of undeniable winners, the 2020 is another "fabulous" effort with "gorgeous depth and texture" as Galloni describes it. Projecting upwards of a decade of cellar development, Dunnuck notes, "It has the vintage's concentrated, pure style front and center," once again confirming the estate's reference-point status. This trio also confirms that Bordeaux continues to be a hotbed of unbeatable values, offering wines of superb sophistication and cellar potential for prices that allow anyone to load the cellar and reap the rewards for years to come. | ||
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2019 Tolaini Valdisanti (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Sauvignon from Tuscany, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More “The Tolaini 2019 Valdisanti is quite generous and rich ... This is a proud and beautiful Tuscan red...”- Monica Larner,Wine Advocate From the award winning Tuscan estate producing “some of the best wines in Chianti Classico” according to Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, the 94-point 2019 Tolaini Valdisanti offers aromatic dark, sumptuous fruit hinting of earthy spice with velvety, mouth-coating tannins, a luxurious 50-50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cab Franc built to age for nearly two decades and value-priced well below its pedigree. Employing state-of-the-art technology and top viticultural experts, including famed enologist Michel Rolland, to determine the optimal site for each type of grape, the estate’s 50 hectares of organically certified vineyards are planted with a mix of international varietals as well as the indigenous Sangiovese in the region’s sandy, stony soils known as tufa. Situated high in the Berardenga hills, the 2019 Tolaini Valdisanti is sourced from the estate’s sustainably farmed Tenuta San Giovanni Vineyard, the vines tended by hand to maintain low yields and allow the grapes to reach optimal ripeness. Working under the direction of famed consultant Luca D’Attoma, whose clients include Tua Rita and Allegrini’s Poggio al Tesoro in Bolgheri, winemaker Francesco Rosi aged the robust 2019 Tolaini Valdisanti for 16 months in French oak barriques with 6 months on the lees before bottling it unfiltered and aging it for 12 months more, yielding a “balanced and harmonious” red according to Wine Spectator’s Bruce Sanderson with bright acidity and smooth, integrated tannins promising a long-lived evolution. Ranked on Wine Enthusiast’s list of The Best Super Tuscan Wines of 2019 alongside Solaia and Tignanello, the powerhouse, 94-point 2019 Tolaini Valdisanti impeccably balances savory, ripe, dark fruit and softly layered tannins as a unique expression of its southern Chianti Classico terroir, an impressive value promising to reward Super Tuscan fans who stock the cellar with over a decade of pleasurable drinking ahead. | ||
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2022 Kelley Fox Pinot Noir Mirabai (750ml) | ||
Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declared “one of the most exciting portfolios of wines made in the United States” by Eric Guido of Vinous, these Kelley Fox selections from Willamette Valley include a top scoring range of elegant vineyard-expressive Pinot Noirs and a rich, energetic Chardonnay, her record of exceptional quality earning the portfolio a devoted cult following worldwide and available in limited quantities outside her exclusive winery list. Establishing her winery in 2007 with her father Gus Stearns, Kelley Fox was mentored by David Lett of The Eyrie Vineyards before spending a decade as the winemaker at Scott Paul Wines, crafting her wines as a transparent expression of their vineyard origins with limited intervention in the winery and gaining access over her career to some of Oregon's top vineyards. Employing small lot fermentations with all native yeasts and aging in in used barrels, Eric Guido of Vinous describes Kelley’s 2022 Pinot Noirs as “lifted, finessed and ethereal yet still vibrantly fruit-focused and nearly spiritual in the way that seemingly only Pinot Noir can be,” while the white wines are “potent and rich yet driven by an energetic mineral core that adds remarkable depth.” Sourced from the Dundee Hills AVA, the entry level 92 pt. 2022 Kelly Fox Pinot Noir Mirabai offers “soft elegant fruit as well as a supple texture and fresh acidity” according to Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck, while the beautifully aromatic 96 pt. 2022 Kelley Fox Liminal Maresh Vineyard Pinot Noir has “approachable, fine tannins, vibrant, mouthwatering, even acidity, and crystalline purity” and promises to evolve for over a decade. Vinous critic Eric Guido calls the rich and juicy 96 pt. 2022 Kelley Fox Durant Vineyard Pinot Noir “a model of purity, silken to the core” with “unbelievable freshness,” while the fresh and zesty 96 pt. 2022 Kelley Fox Maresh Vineyard Golden-Crowned Sparrow Blocks Pinot Noir is “darkly alluring” with “silky textures and simulating acidity,” both built for a decade or more of enjoyment. Sourced from the Freedom Hill Vineyard and aged in stainless steel for six months, Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck calls the 93 pt. 2023 Kelley Fox Willamette Valley Chardonnay “hard to resist,” offering fresh, spiced fruit with “outstanding energy propelling it through the lovely, savory, mineral-noted finish” and declaring it “a tremendous value.” Focusing on the clearest expression of a vineyard's character, Kelley Fox is a name for Oregon wine fans to add to their must try list, or as succinctly stated by Vinous critic Eric Guido, “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.” | ||
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2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial (750ml) | ||
Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described as a “crystal clear expression” of Rioja by Joaquin Hidalgo of Vinous, Bodegas Muga fans and Rioja collectors won’t need convincing to stock up on the irresistible 95 pt. 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial, a silky and concentrated Rioja offering fresh, ripe dark fruit with earthy minerality and integrated, polished tannins built to enjoy over the next decade and beyond at a terrific price. Located among the region’s most historic wineries, the iconic tower of Bodegas Muga marks its location in Haro's Barrio de la Estacion, the winery complex built in 1971 with an on-site cooperage managed by Spain’s only master cooper and where all of Muga’s oak barrels and casks are made. Produced from vines averaging over 37 years of age, the 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial is a blend of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha and Graciano sourced from clay-limestone terraces located on the cooler slopes of Montes Obarenes and Sierra Cantabria, the specially selected grapes coming primarily from high altitude vineyards between 430 and 450 meters above sea level stretching from Villalba to Abalos. Fermenting with indigenous yeasts in oak vats, third generation winemaker Jorge Muga aged the enticing and long-lasting 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial for 26 months in 40% new French oak barrels and 18 months longer in bottle before release, yielding a “complex and nuanced” Rioja according to the Wine Advocate’s Luiz Gutierrez with “abundant, fine-grained tannins and a long, dry and tasty finish.” Crafted in the style of a traditional Reserva with extended aging, the impressive 95 pt. 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial is ready to enjoy and built to evolve well over the next 15 years, “a structured, polished delight” according to critic Tim Atkin and a winning choice for Muga’s loyal cult-like following and collectors of age worthy Rioja seeking outstanding value. | ||
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2019 La Rose Perriere (750ml) | ||
From Lussac-St-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More High scoring Bordeaux under $20? How sweet it is! B-21 Bordeaux bargain hunters will want to make room in the cellar for our delectable deals on exceptional Bordeaux blends that are hard to resist, these top scoring “two lollipop” selections all priced under $20 and hitting the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value whether choosing a favorite or two or mixing a case. Named one of the Top 20 Bordeaux Values of 2020 by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, the impressive and age worthy 94 pt. 2020 Vieux Chateau Saint Andre was produced under “Master of Merlot” Jean-Claude Berrouet, the legendary winemaker at Petrus for 44 vintages, revealing fresh aromatic earthy fruit “with loads of mineral accents and a soft, plush texture” according to the Wine Independent’s Lisa Perrotti-Brown built to evolve for another decade, while Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson describes the powerful 93 pt. 2019 Belle-Vue as “extremely sleek, elegant and well made,” the beautifully balanced Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend offering rich aromatic spiced fruit with velvety ripe tannins promising “to be a gem of a wine” according to Jeb Dunnuck. Antonio Galloni of Vinous describes the “gorgeous” 93 pt. 2019 La Rose Perriere as “rich and yet vibrant,” the beautifully fragrant blend of mostly Merlot with Cab Franc boasting deep, sumptuous fruit and a smooth, velvety texture, while the 92 pt. 2019 Moulin de Chateau La Lagune is crafted from mostly lush, dark Cabernet Sauvignon, revealing “a lovely refinement to the fruit” according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle with integrated, polished tannins. Described as “a total delight” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 93 pt. 2018 Chateau Lanessan is a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from a gravel terroir matching its Second-Growth neighbor Chateau Gruaud Larose and solidly built to age well according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, while the elegant 92 pt. 2019 Chateau Senejac reveals bright aromatic dark fruit with velvety tannins on “a saline, mouthwatering finish” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley, recommending it as a “fine effort.” A range of top rated Bordeaux certain to please both Left and Right Bank fans, these “two lollipop” under $20 selections are the first in a series of irresistible deals for Bordeaux aficionados to stock the cellar, a delicious selection of value priced blends that hits the sweet spot for bargain hunters seeking to pull the cork more often. | ||
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2019 Belle-Vue (750ml) | ||
Merlot from Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More High scoring Bordeaux under $20? How sweet it is! B-21 Bordeaux bargain hunters will want to make room in the cellar for our delectable deals on exceptional Bordeaux blends that are hard to resist, these top scoring “two lollipop” selections all priced under $20 and hitting the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value whether choosing a favorite or two or mixing a case. Named one of the Top 20 Bordeaux Values of 2020 by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, the impressive and age worthy 94 pt. 2020 Vieux Chateau Saint Andre was produced under “Master of Merlot” Jean-Claude Berrouet, the legendary winemaker at Petrus for 44 vintages, revealing fresh aromatic earthy fruit “with loads of mineral accents and a soft, plush texture” according to the Wine Independent’s Lisa Perrotti-Brown built to evolve for another decade, while Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson describes the powerful 93 pt. 2019 Belle-Vue as “extremely sleek, elegant and well made,” the beautifully balanced Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend offering rich aromatic spiced fruit with velvety ripe tannins promising “to be a gem of a wine” according to Jeb Dunnuck. Antonio Galloni of Vinous describes the “gorgeous” 93 pt. 2019 La Rose Perriere as “rich and yet vibrant,” the beautifully fragrant blend of mostly Merlot with Cab Franc boasting deep, sumptuous fruit and a smooth, velvety texture, while the 92 pt. 2019 Moulin de Chateau La Lagune is crafted from mostly lush, dark Cabernet Sauvignon, revealing “a lovely refinement to the fruit” according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle with integrated, polished tannins. Described as “a total delight” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the 93 pt. 2018 Chateau Lanessan is a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from a gravel terroir matching its Second-Growth neighbor Chateau Gruaud Larose and solidly built to age well according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, while the elegant 92 pt. 2019 Chateau Senejac reveals bright aromatic dark fruit with velvety tannins on “a saline, mouthwatering finish” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley, recommending it as a “fine effort.” A range of top rated Bordeaux certain to please both Left and Right Bank fans, these “two lollipop” under $20 selections are the first in a series of irresistible deals for Bordeaux aficionados to stock the cellar, a delicious selection of value priced blends that hits the sweet spot for bargain hunters seeking to pull the cork more often. | ||
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2009 Chateau Suduiraut Ex-Chateau 2022 (750ml) | ||
Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King’s grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d’Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as “a mood altering wine,” the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts “a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop” according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate’s Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut “unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish.” Boasting “a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit,” Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a “benchmark Suduiraut” and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut “simply magnificent” and “a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the “fabulous” 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut “such a gorgeous wine,” delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining “gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls it “a great wine with a long-term future.” Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: “It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing.” Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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2020 Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Sauvignon / Shiraz (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Sauvignon from South Australia, Australia | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Gorgeous wine. And it lives for decades." Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate From the illustrious producer of Australia's iconic Grange, the powerful 97 pt. 2020 Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz is a luscious, velvety smooth blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz that will have Aussie fans reaching for another taste, beautifully balancing rich, ripe aromatic dark fruit hinting of vanilla and spice with mouth coating tannins and mirroring the quality of its legendary big brother at a fraction of the price. Located in the foothills of Adelaide and considered the heart of the historic wine brand, visitors to Penfolds Magill Estate are guided past the natural rock walls of the original winery to the 1845 homestead of founders Christopher and Mary Penfold called the Grange Cottage, overlooking the estate’s centuries old Shiraz vineyard with distant views of the shimmering blue waters of the Gulf of St. Vincent. Among the pioneering growers of the South Australia region, Penfolds is renowned for its remarkable consistency across the portfolio, fulfilling its original chief winemaker Max Schubert’s goal of creating a “dynasty of wines which all bear an unmistakable resemblance to each other” as a harmonious expression of its diverse South Australia terroir. Named for the Batch Identification Number used to identify its storage area in Penfolds' cellars, Bin 389 was created in 1960 by Schubert as a multiregional blend from Penfold’s top vineyards similar to Grange and matured in the same casks that held the flagship’s previous vintage, producing a combination of intensity and longevity that earned it the nickname “Baby Grange.” Blending 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz grown in McLaren Vale, Barossa and Padthway, Decanter Hall of Fame winemaker Peter Gago aged the dense and succulent 2020 Penfolds Bin 389 for 12 months in 33% new American oak hogsheads as well as the one-use Grange casks, yielding deeply concentrated, rich dark fruit and ripe silky tannins promising decades of enjoyment and summed up by James Halliday’s Wine Companion as “big, bold, beautiful and quintessentially Australian.” Crafted in Penfold’s signature opulent style, the fresh and savory 97 pt. 2020 Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz lives up to its reputation as a “collector’s dream” according to the Wine Advocate’s Erin Larkin, a top value for Grange aficionados and lovers of intense and age worthy Aussie reds to stock the cellar and enjoy over the next decade. | ||
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2022 Flowers Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast, California | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A "mixed bouquet” of fresh 2022 Flowers Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, these elegantly crafted 2022 Flowers selections express their cool climate Sonoma coast origins with pure, bright flavors and refined acidity, reflecting the estate’s continued “upwards shift in quality” according to the Wine Independent’s Lisa Perrotti-Brown and affordably priced for mixing a case. Considered pioneering producers of the rugged Fort Ross-Seaview AVA, expert growers Joan and Walt Flowers believed the region’s maritime-influenced climate and pervasive fog would allow grapes to develop complex flavors by ripening slowly and evenly, ignoring the common wisdom that the steep, mountainous terrain was inhospitable for viticulture and planting their Camp Meeting vineyard in 1990. Attracting an influx of elite winemakers including Martinelli, Pahlmeyer, Peter Michael and Williams Selyem over the next decades, Flowers has fine-tuned their vineyard-focused approach over the last 15 years in partnership with Quintessa owner Augustin Huneeus, which along with consulting support from top Burgundy winemaker Jeremy Seysses of Domaine Dujac has driven the quality of the Flowers’ wines “to a whole new level” according to the Wine Independent’s Lisa Perrotti-Brown. . Blending Chardonnay from Camp Meeting and other coastal vineyards and aged in 18% new French oak for 10 months, the elegant 95 pt. 2022 Flowers Chardonnay was crafted in a style described by Jeb Dunnuck as “classic, elegant Sonoma Coast,” offering fresh, aromatic fruit with lithe minerality and well-balanced acidity. Sourced from an excellent Sonoma vintage where “Pinot Noir leads the way” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, the elegantly aromatic 93 pt. 2022 Flowers Pinot Noir comes from the Flower’s organically farmed Sea View Ridge estate as well as select family-owned vineyards on the Sonoma Coast and was aged in 20% new French oak for 11 months, yielding a fresh and delicious Pinot with enticing dark berry fruit hinting of spice and earthy forest on a backbone of flinty, mineral-driven acidity, built to deliver pleasurable drinking over the next decade. Credited with “helping to set a new standard of quality” in the region according to the Wine Spectator’s Kim Marcus, these outstanding 2022 Flowers selections continue the estate’s legacy of producing “impeccably made and high quality” wines according to Jeb Dunnuck, certain to thrill lovers of Flowers’ classically styled wines and all delicious choices for fans of California cool climate wines seeking a great deal. | ||
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2020 Chateau Troplong Mondot (750ml) | ||
Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Here’s an exciting opportunity to enjoy a vertical of outstanding new releases from Chateau Troplong Mondot, three incredibly promising vintages garnering multiple 100 pt. scores and wowing critics across the board, each built for three decades of pleasurable drinking and unbeatably priced to over deliver value. Perched in a spectacular location with a 360-degree view overlooking St. Emilion, Chateau Troplong Mondot is marked by the prominent water tower at St. Emilion’s highest point, its stunning new cellars viewed from above on a glass catwalk reflecting the estate’s dramatic transformation since its purchase by insurance company SCOR in 2017. Immediately hiring Bordeaux veteran Aymeric de Gironde, formerly of Pichon Baron and Cos d’Estournel, to lead the estate, Troplong Mondot pivoted to a classical, terroir-driven style, identifying the unique qualities of even the smallest parcels of its organically farmed 65 hectares of vineyards and reducing the amount of new oak to allow their rich minerality to shine through, described by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson as reflecting “a more evident respect for the powerful terroir that does not need to be overly dressed up” under the guidance of renowned consulting enologist Thomas Duclos. Vinified in vats instead of barrels to preserve freshness, the 98 pt. 2018 Chateau Troplong Mondot is “simply breathtaking” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, aged in 60% new oak with a small percentage in large vats and amphorae to yield a Troplong with “brighter red fruit flavors” that’s “backed by a distinct flinty minerality” according to the Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth. Earning the #13 spot of the Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Cellar Selections 2022, the “perfect” 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Troplong Mondot is “impressive” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, with chalky limestone tannins that “speaks of its soils,” boasting “a satisfying overall mouthful and lasting impression” according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle who sums it up as “incredible.” Declared “one of the Right Bank’s finest wines in this vintage” by the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley with another perfect score – the “fabulous” 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Troplong Mondot is “wonderfully exuberant right out of the gate” according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, with aromatic, rich dark fruit described as “powerful and dense” by the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss that “ends with a whoosh of freshness and lift” according to Jane Anson. Describing these recent vintages as marking “the upward trajectory and unveiling of the new expression of this very special site at Troplong Mondot,” the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley declared, “what an exhilarating ride this is!” while Jeb Dunnuck unequivocally declares “there is no denying the incredible quality from this chateau today” – these value priced Chateau Troplong Mondot selections offering an exciting opportunity for Bordeaux fans and collectors to mix a case or pick a few favorites and jump aboard St. Emilion’s rising star for the thrilling journey ahead. | ||
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2022 Tedeschi Lucchine Valpolicella (750ml) | ||
From Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A comprehensive selection from Tedeschi reflecting "a sense of place in Valpolicella" according to Eric Guido of Vinous, these highly rated reds from Italy's pioneering producer of vineyard-driven Valpolicella and Amarone offer a full range of complexity from the easy drinking 90 pt. 2022 Tedeschi Lucchine to the inviting 97 pt. 2019 Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone and the powerful single vineyard 95 pt. 2015 Tedeschi Capitel Monte Olmi Riserva Amarone, a terrific value priced opportunity for anyone looking to explore the wines of the region as well as Amarone lovers seeking a great deal for building a case. Located in northern Italy’s Veneto region east of Lake Garda, Tedeschi produces red wines in a range of styles, from fresh and approachable Valpolicella to rich and age worthy Amarone and long-lived Riservas, crafted as different blends from the native grapes Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone along with a smaller percentage of lesser-known indigenous varietals. Inspired by the diverse range of terroirs across their 48 hectares of steep, hillside vineyards, the Tedeschi’s were the first in the region to build their portfolio to express the specific characteristics of the individual parcels, the estate now run by fifth generation family members Riccardo, Sabrina and Antonietta under the mentorship of their father Lorenzo. Crafted without the use of any oak, the fresh and lively 90 pt. 2022 Tedeschi Lucchine Valpolicella offers bright red fruit with notes of sour cherry and vibrant acidity, a refreshing and food friendly Valpolicella to enjoy slightly chilled over the next five years and summed up by James Suckling as “delicious.” Crafted as a harmonious blend from across their vineyards, the harvested grapes for the Marne 180 Amarone della Valpolicella are dried to half their original size during the appassimento process used to make Amarone, undergoing a complex transformation that decreases acidity and enhances flavors, the blend aged for around 30 months in large Slavonian casks followed by at least 6 months in bottle before release. Described as “delicious even now” by James Suckling, the richly textured 93 pt. 2017 Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone is ready to enjoy with structure for cellaring, offering aromatic, succulent fruit hinting of spiced raisin with smooth acidity and a mineral-driven finish, while the lush 2019 97 pt. Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone promises a decade of evolution, revealing ripe spiced fruit and saline-tinged minerality with well-integrated tannins on a long, juicy finish. Sourced from the steep terraced Monte Olmi parcel planted in limestone-rich soils at around 160 meters above sea level, Tedeschi’s Monte Olmi Riserva was among the region’s first single vineyard Amarones first released in the 1960’s, the blend aged in Slavonia oak for 48 months with a minimum of 6 months more in bottle. After spending 10 years maturing in bottle, the full-bodied 95 pt. 2013 Tedeschi Capitel Monte Olmi Riserva Amarone is described as offering “an unbelievable amount of vibrant, unbridled energy” by Eric Guido of Vinous, its enticing aromatic spiced fruit balanced with fine grained tannins on a silky finish while the opulent 95 pt. 2016 Tedeschi Capitel Monte Olmi Riserva Amarone is “is a sumptuous wine of both power and precision” according to James Suckling, promising to evolve for over a decade. Described as “fabulous values” by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, these appealing selections from Tedeschi reflect the family’s long legacy as expert growers in the region, a range of refined and balanced vineyard driven Valpolicella wines to enjoy now and over the next decade, bargain priced at a fraction of the region’s higher profile producers and over delivering value. | ||
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2021 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon Signature (750ml) | ||
Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From a winery that Wine Spectator’s James Laube notes “always seems to over deliver on quality for the price,” this dynamic duo from Napa icon Chappellet does not disappoint. The lush 2022 Chappellet Mountain Cuvee is once again expertly crafted for near-term enjoyment, while the outstanding,96-poiint 2021 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon Signature lives up to Jeb Dunnuck’s description as a “serious wine in the making” from an exceptional vintage. Both are unbeatably priced for stocking up. While most vineyards at the time were planted on the valley floor, Pritchard Hill pioneers Donn and Molly Chappellet purchased 320 acres high in the rugged hills east of Oakville on the advice of legendary winemaker Andre Tchelistcheff in the late 1960s, producing one of the first Cabs from mountain-grown fruit in Napa Valley in 1969 and continuing over a half century later as one of the few family-owned wineries in the region. Crafted of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with 28% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 6% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc, the plush 2022 Chappellet Mountain Cuvee offers fragrant ripe dark fruit with soft, integrated tannins and a hint of spiced vanilla from aging in new French oak, a rich and easy drinking blend with seamless structure and “a bargain by most Napa standards” according to Wine Spectator. A blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Malbec and 6% Merlot from veteran winemaker Phillip Corallo-Titus, the powerful,96-point 2021 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon Signature features concentrated, dark fruit hinting of graphite and cedar with a long-lived finish, a richly textured, cellar-worthy Napa Cab “supported by plush tannins and just enough freshness” according to The Wine Independent’s Lisa Perrotti-Brown, who recommends “buying whatever you’re offered’ from the outstanding 2021 Napa vintage. Called “a big overachiever” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous and “a smoking good value” by Jeb Dunnuck, the 2021 Signature promises to evolve gracefully in the cellar for well over a decade, while the luscious 2022 Chappellet Mountain Cuvee is ready to enjoy over the next few years, a bargain priced duo offering the best of both worlds for lovers of Napa Cabs seeking outstanding value. | ||
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2022 Domaine des Malandes Chablis 1er Cru Cote de Lechet (750ml) | ||
Chardonnay from Chablis, Burgundy, France | ||
B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...the rate of improvement at this address has surpassed anything I thought possible, and this is now clearly an estate to watch closely." - William Kelley,Wine Advocate One of the great recent renaissance stories in Burgundy, Domaine des Malandes has enjoyed a meteoric rise in quality of late, driven by oenologist Guenole Breteaudeau and estate manager Richard Rottiers, whose own acclaimed Beaujolais domaine has propelled that region's upward trajectory through the last decade. An enviable stable of prime vineyard parcels now produces a benchmark line-up that is garnering serious attention once again. Described by Neal Martin of Vinous as “lovely” and “well balanced,” the 92-point 2022 1er Cru Mont de Milieu shows the character of the growing season in its rich tropical notes and bright acidity, while the 93-point 2022 1er Cru Cote de Lechet is a classically styled, steely Chablis with crisp, vibrant fruit and a lengthy, flinty finish, dubbed a “top choice for Chablis purists” by Martin. From two of the region’s best known 1er Crus and both aged in 20% used oak, the 2022 Montmains offers fresh, pure fruit flavors with a “subtle note of wood” according to Decanter’s Andy Howard that’s “all kept in check by some lovely, direct acidity,” while the 2022 Fourchaume boasts “a rich core of fruit, good concentration and bright acids” according to Wine Advocate’s William Kelley. Two outstanding Grand Crus sourced from old vine parcels showcase the heights of the domaine's potential excellence. The 93WA “satiny and suave" Vaudesir is “a fine success," while Kelley describes the 94-point Les Clos as “deep and layered” with 15 or more years of aging ahead. Both are matured in a mix of mainly neutral large oak barrels and stainless steel and rank among Kelley’s top picks of the vintage, along with Chablis royalty Raveneau and Dauvissat. As Martin notes, Chablis "continues to offer a slew of affordable alternatives to Cote de Beaune whites,” clearly demonstrated in these selections from Domaine des Malandes, which are easily among the region’s most undervalued gems. | ||
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