As the head of the historic Champagne house named for his grandfather Andre Clouet, larger than life vigneron Jean-François Clouet is considered by critics as one of the top grower-producers in the region. Jean-François' flamboyant personality, dubbed by one reviewer as a combination of "winemaker and circus ringmaster," belies his serious dedication and singular passion for producing rich and concentrated expressions of Pinot Noir-based Champagne, also known as Blanc de Noirs. From the outstanding 91pt non-vintage Grande Reserve to the exceptional 96pt Brut 1911, the champagnes of Andre Clouet exhibit the purity of the Pinot Noir fruit, with terroir-driven chalky minerality and deep complexity, ranking Andre Clouet among the region's finest producers and representing one of its best values.

Inextricably tied to Champagne's history, the Clouet family have resided in the Montagne de Reims since 1492, first serving as book printers for King Louis XV in 1491 (a legacy now reflected in the Champagne house's ornate labels), producing their first champagne in Bouzy in 1741. Highlighting the Grand Cru pedigree of their 8 hectares of mid-slope sites in Bouzy and Ambonnay, the top cuvees are sourced from these estate vineyards, with additional Pinot Noir purchased from 60 hectares of growers' vineyards and each plot vinified separately. While upholding his family's traditional approach in the vineyard including hand pruning and selection, Francois continues to innovate in the cellar, including employing Sauternes barrels sourced from Château Doisy-Daëne for aging the Brut 1911 as a way of reducing the dosage, with the goal of adjusting sweetness without adding sugar. Exhibiting a gentle mousse and refined bubbles, the wines of André Clouet also boast notably creamy textures due to Jean-François' practice of extended aging on the lees, balancing crisp acidity and tantalizing minerality.

While Andre Clouet remains relatively under the radar among the grower-producers in Champagne, these highly rated selections are among the best Blanc de Noir wines of the region, at a fraction of the price of prestige offerings from the larger Champagne houses like Krug and Bollinger. With the holiday season quickly approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on an array of the exquisite, artisanal Champagnes of Andre Clouet, one of the finest grower estates in the region today, whether for everyday enjoyment, celebrations or gifting and now offered at the best pricing on the market.

"BV is arguably one of the most improved estates in Napa Valley over the last few years. Today’s wines offer terrific energy in a style that marries textural resonances with vibrancy." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

If you're looking for sure bets in Napa Cabernet, you can't do much better than Beaulieu Vineyards in an outstanding vintage, and this trio from the monumental 2021 and 2023 vintages is a must-see for any avid fan or collector. The 2023 BV Napa Valley Cabernet cements its place as one of the category's great value propositions. A double 94-point gem for under $40, it's "succulent, layered and generous ... An excellent release of this wine with all the traditional hallmarks," as noted by James Suckling.

Legendary Napa pedigree and a benchmark vintage come together to form a top-tier overachiever in the 2021 BV Tapestry Reserve. Often known as "Baby Latour", it's a lovely precursor to the estate's iconic flagship wine, at a fraction of the price. Not only that, but the 2021 also boasts some impressive accolades, led by a 96-point score from James Suckling, who declares it "one of the best I have had." The vintage's outstanding growing conditions resulted in a wine with "excellent length and serious tension" between plush fruit and precisely executed structure. Jeb Dunnuck declares, "It's medium to full-bodied, with a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Bravo to the team at Beaulieu for delivering this level of quality."

Following on the heels of star-studded vintages like 2018 and 2019, the 2021 BV Georges de Latour Reserve is "outrageously beautiful, writes Galloni. "A wine of statuesque build and class, the 2021 represents another major step forward for BV." It offers collectors a level of sophistication and elegance that simply adds one more dimension to one of the world's great Cabernets. With three 98-point scores carrying the critical line, the 2021 "does everything right" according to Jeb Dunnuck, and avid collectors of this Napa legend will be thrilled to have it in their cellars.

"Suffice it to say, Ridge is firing on all cylinders." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

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 Geyserville 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 "pure, expressive" 2021 is the perfect counterpoint to the "take-no-prisoners" 2022, each wine boasted 95 points among a host great accolades.

Of course, Ridge is also renowned for delivering serious bang for the buck throughout their extensive range, a perennial favorite is the 2023 Three Valleys. 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. Finally, the double 93-point 2022 Paso Robles Zinfandel is "brambly and dynamic" with a big personality defined by its "terrific core of sweet fruit, supple tannins and outstanding length." In other words, it's a quintessential California Zin that delivers the all the features that Ridge fans crave.

With outstanding value offerings like these, as well as monumental collectibles, and everything in between, Ridge is still a California icon that deserves its place in the pantheon of great names.

"It is approachable, elegant and ticks all the boxes for this style of wine at an affordable price." - Decanter

La Rioja Alta's Vina Alberdi needs little to no introduction here at B-21. It's been a perennial best-seller for years on end and one of the most consistent values in Spanish wine during that entire span of time. The 93-point 2020 vintage continues the sterling track record of this benchmark overachiever and this reference-point estate.

Forty-year-old vines, expert and precise aging in American oak (a La Rioja Alta specialty), and extended bottle aging before release all contribute to a "lively, harmonious, focused red" that bears the classic Rioja profile while remaining eminently approachable today. Even better the price tag offers the kind of versatility that makes it easy to stack some away in the cellar for a few years or pop the cork tonight – or both.

"Acknowledging that 2019 is already a heralded vintage, the salient question is whether it represents the summit of the 2018, 2019 and 2020 triumvirate. 'Yes' is the answer. I have always felt that is the case." - Neal Martin, Vinous

Of course, you may or may not agree with Martin in terms of 2019 place in the "trifecta," but it's undeniable that is a truly spectacular Bordeaux vintage that has more than lived up to its day-one hype since the wine's have hit the market, hit collector's cellars, and found their way into the glasses of impatient enthusiasts. Best of all, pricing has always been highly favorable compared to 2018 and 2020 (to say nothing of 2022), so the 2019s have also been some of the sharpest collectible buys on the market from the get-go and remain so today.

We've just landed a must-see treasure trove from this heralded campaign at ... you guessed it ... razor-sharp pricing cross the board, with superb performers in every classification and price tier.

"The 2024 Chardonnay is, yet again, a gorgeous, singular wine with so much regional identity and soul, especially at its ridiculously low price point." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Fans of winemaker Greg Brewer won't need convincing to stock up the new vintage of his pure and precise 2024 Diatom Chardonnay, especially since it landed in the top 20 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2025. Transparently expressing the essence of fragrant Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay with shimmering minerality on a vibrant, saline finish, it's a "no-brainer for purchase" according to Jeb Dunnuck.

Sourced from low-yielding vines in the the Mission Hills Vineyard in Los Alamos and fermented and matured in 100% stainless steel, the refined 2024 Diatom Chardonnay beautifully balances bright, lively fruit with refreshing, mineral-tinged acidity, reflecting Brewer's signature style of "clean, crisp, remarkably pure Chardonnay," according to Dunnuck, with a mouthwatering finish that begs for another sip. "Such an impressively high-quality wine" per Antonio Galloni's own 93-point review, the 2024 Diatom once again affirms its place as one of the smartest buys in California Chardonnay, at a price that makes it a perfect candidate to stack high and deep by the case.

There are few things we love more than a great California value Cabernet, and today we have three, each one a serious performer with at least one 93-point score and an unbelievably affordable price. We'll start with the "balanced and elegant" 2023 Method California Cabernet Sauvignon, made entirely from declassified Lake County fruit. "This selection does not disappoint," notes Wine Enthusiast, while James Suckling calls it "so delicious."

Next up, the 2023 Roth Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon boasts some serious quality for its price point, but at its core, this one is all about pure enjoyment for fans of Cali Cab. First off, the 2023 is a classic showcase of what sets Alexander Valley apart from the rest of California when it comes to Cabernet. Plush, red fruits form the wine's identity, while the dusty but gentle tannins, a signature of the AVA, offer a pleasantly balanced foundation that makes this overachieving value star a perfect match for any weeknight occasion or crowded get-together. With rock-solid press, including a 92-point review from James Suckling

Finally, the 2023 Vina Robles Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon shows why Paso Cabernet is very much its own thing, not just another half-hearted attempt at copying the Napa profile. "Rich, spicy and well-structured in tannins, this full-bodied wine tastes bold, deep and intense." James Suckling's 93-point review neatly sums up what Paso Cab is all about, and the 2023 Vina Robles offers a prime example for an easy price.

We're betting you didn't think your next go-to house red would be a California Cabernet at under $20, but here they are. Now all you have to do is make room for a couple cases (of each).

As the head of the historic Champagne house named for his grandfather Andre Clouet, larger than life vigneron Jean-François Clouet is considered by critics as one of the top grower-producers in the region. Jean-François' flamboyant personality, dubbed by one reviewer as a combination of "winemaker and circus ringmaster," belies his serious dedication and singular passion for producing rich and concentrated expressions of Pinot Noir-based Champagne, also known as Blanc de Noirs. From the outstanding 91pt non-vintage Grande Reserve to the exceptional 96pt Brut 1911, the champagnes of Andre Clouet exhibit the purity of the Pinot Noir fruit, with terroir-driven chalky minerality and deep complexity, ranking Andre Clouet among the region's finest producers and representing one of its best values.

Inextricably tied to Champagne's history, the Clouet family have resided in the Montagne de Reims since 1492, first serving as book printers for King Louis XV in 1491 (a legacy now reflected in the Champagne house's ornate labels), producing their first champagne in Bouzy in 1741. Highlighting the Grand Cru pedigree of their 8 hectares of mid-slope sites in Bouzy and Ambonnay, the top cuvees are sourced from these estate vineyards, with additional Pinot Noir purchased from 60 hectares of growers' vineyards and each plot vinified separately. While upholding his family's traditional approach in the vineyard including hand pruning and selection, Francois continues to innovate in the cellar, including employing Sauternes barrels sourced from Château Doisy-Daëne for aging the Brut 1911 as a way of reducing the dosage, with the goal of adjusting sweetness without adding sugar. Exhibiting a gentle mousse and refined bubbles, the wines of André Clouet also boast notably creamy textures due to Jean-François' practice of extended aging on the lees, balancing crisp acidity and tantalizing minerality.

While Andre Clouet remains relatively under the radar among the grower-producers in Champagne, these highly rated selections are among the best Blanc de Noir wines of the region, at a fraction of the price of prestige offerings from the larger Champagne houses like Krug and Bollinger. With the holiday season quickly approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on an array of the exquisite, artisanal Champagnes of Andre Clouet, one of the finest grower estates in the region today, whether for everyday enjoyment, celebrations or gifting and now offered at the best pricing on the market.

"Two thousand twenty-one is a superb vintage for Barolo." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

The hype has been going for some time now, but you never know just how good or great a vintage can be until the wines hit the market. Now that the 2021 Barolos are here, it's clear that the early praise and accolades are well warranted.

Apart from a few isolated weather events, the growing season was ideal by modern Barolo standards, with a long cycle and normal harvest time. Normal diurnal temperature shifts and heat patterns also contributed to the incredible overall quality that is becoming evident in the finished wines. As Galloni notes in his comprehensive vintage report, "The 2021 Barolos are finessed, elegant wines that will delight Piedmont fans."

Against this backdrop, we present a staggering array of the vintage's most compelling recent releases, over forty wines spanning entry-level gems and values for near-term enjoyment to cult-caliber cellar performers that will show the 2021 vintage in all its glory decades down the road. Names like Vietti, Vajra, and Gaja dot the landscape, as well as under-the-radar winners like Brezza, Manzone, and Elio Grasso. If this introductory list below tells us one thing, it's that the 2021 Barolo campaign is going to offer immense enjoyment for collectors and Piedmont fans as they stock the cellar with one incredible wine after another.

There are few things we love more than a great California value Cabernet, and today we have three, each one a serious performer with at least one 93-point score and an unbelievably affordable price. We'll start with the "balanced and elegant" 2023 Method California Cabernet Sauvignon, made entirely from declassified Lake County fruit. "This selection does not disappoint," notes Wine Enthusiast, while James Suckling calls it "so delicious."

Next up, the 2023 Roth Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon boasts some serious quality for its price point, but at its core, this one is all about pure enjoyment for fans of Cali Cab. First off, the 2023 is a classic showcase of what sets Alexander Valley apart from the rest of California when it comes to Cabernet. Plush, red fruits form the wine's identity, while the dusty but gentle tannins, a signature of the AVA, offer a pleasantly balanced foundation that makes this overachieving value star a perfect match for any weeknight occasion or crowded get-together. With rock-solid press, including a 92-point review from James Suckling

Finally, the 2023 Vina Robles Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon shows why Paso Cabernet is very much its own thing, not just another half-hearted attempt at copying the Napa profile. "Rich, spicy and well-structured in tannins, this full-bodied wine tastes bold, deep and intense." James Suckling's 93-point review neatly sums up what Paso Cab is all about, and the 2023 Vina Robles offers a prime example for an easy price.

We're betting you didn't think your next go-to house red would be a California Cabernet at under $20, but here they are. Now all you have to do is make room for a couple cases (of each).

"Quite a powerful wine that is carried by pure acidity and freshness." - James Suckling

Beringer's Private Reserve line is arguably one of the greatest sources of consistent quality for price in Napa Valley and has been for the past three decades. The stellar 2023 vintage provided plenty of opportunity to continue that track record, and the latest release of the Private Reserve Chardonnay does not disappoint. In fact, it's set to be a reference-point rendition of this all-time fan favorite 96 points from James Suckling and 95 points from Jeb Dunnuck.

Sourced almost entirely from the historic Gamble Ranch in Oakville, this is Napa Chardonnay through and through, yet it stays well clear of the excesses that have sometimes plagued the category in recent, namely over-ripeness and heavy-handed oak. "Medium to full-bodied, it's pure, balanced, and layered, with wonderfully integrated oak," notes Dunnuck, "It brings ample power and richness while staying light on its feet." That about sums up the Beringer style and the brilliant 2023 Napa vintage, and it gives ample reason to stock up.

"Rich, fruity and expressive ... Weighty yet well-balanced with texture." - Decanter

As dominant as Rioja is in the Spanish collectible space, its penchant for delivering outstanding everyday values is also unmatched. The latest entry proving the point is Ramirez de la Piscina's charming 2020 Crianza, a rock-solid performer for an easy case-buy price. Two of the characteristics that make Crianza Rioja such a powerhouse category in the everyday price is tier are the reliably enjoyable, approachable fruit profile and the bright, refreshing balance, both of which this 2020 displays in spades. Whether you're a fan of Rioja or just looking for a new candidate to add to your everyday/crowd-pleaser rotations, you can rest assured you've found it in this artfully crafted rendition.

"Acknowledging that 2019 is already a heralded vintage, the salient question is whether it represents the summit of the 2018, 2019 and 2020 triumvirate. 'Yes' is the answer. I have always felt that is the case." - Neal Martin, Vinous

Of course, you may or may not agree with Martin in terms of 2019 place in the "trifecta," but it's undeniable that is a truly spectacular Bordeaux vintage that has more than lived up to its day-one hype since the wine's have hit the market, hit collector's cellars, and found their way into the glasses of impatient enthusiasts. Best of all, pricing has always been highly favorable compared to 2018 and 2020 (to say nothing of 2022), so the 2019s have also been some of the sharpest collectible buys on the market from the get-go and remain so today.

We've just landed a must-see treasure trove from this heralded campaign at ... you guessed it ... razor-sharp pricing cross the board, with superb performers in every classification and price tier.

"The 2024 Chardonnay (Russian River Valley) really overdelivers. It’s an ideal expression of the Russian River Valley..." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

The Hartford Family's roots in Sonoma's Russian River Valley are second to none, and they farm some of the Golden State's most prized plots of old-vine Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Their reference-point range runs the gamut from incredible single-vineyard expressions to some of the greatest bang-for-the-buck values in the appellation. It's the latter category that brings us today's must-see offer. The 2024 Hartford Court Russian River Chardonnay is undeniably a pound-for-pound value champion in California Chardonnay. The fruit sources for the wine are primarily the estate's own prized sites, including Jennifer's, Fog Dance, Bellflower and Arrendel. For a wine that sees 20-30% new oak and full malolactic fermentation, the profile is "notably restrained, the 2024 shows excellent finesse, especially for an appellation-level bottling," according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous. Frankly, you'd be hard-pressed to find an everyday California Chardonnay with this kind of pedigree and class, so stocking up on a case or three is a flat-out no-brainer decision that you won't regret.

We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat."

With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues.

Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank.

This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer.

There are few things we love more than a great California value Cabernet, and today we have three, each one a serious performer with at least one 93-point score and an unbelievably affordable price. We'll start with the "balanced and elegant" 2023 Method California Cabernet Sauvignon, made entirely from declassified Lake County fruit. "This selection does not disappoint," notes Wine Enthusiast, while James Suckling calls it "so delicious."

Next up, the 2023 Roth Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon boasts some serious quality for its price point, but at its core, this one is all about pure enjoyment for fans of Cali Cab. First off, the 2023 is a classic showcase of what sets Alexander Valley apart from the rest of California when it comes to Cabernet. Plush, red fruits form the wine's identity, while the dusty but gentle tannins, a signature of the AVA, offer a pleasantly balanced foundation that makes this overachieving value star a perfect match for any weeknight occasion or crowded get-together. With rock-solid press, including a 92-point review from James Suckling

Finally, the 2023 Vina Robles Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon shows why Paso Cabernet is very much its own thing, not just another half-hearted attempt at copying the Napa profile. "Rich, spicy and well-structured in tannins, this full-bodied wine tastes bold, deep and intense." James Suckling's 93-point review neatly sums up what Paso Cab is all about, and the 2023 Vina Robles offers a prime example for an easy price.

We're betting you didn't think your next go-to house red would be a California Cabernet at under $20, but here they are. Now all you have to do is make room for a couple cases (of each).

"It's very Rioja, with clout, elegance and freshness and the elegant tannins that are the signature of 2021 ... Bravo!" - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate

Declared "one of Rioja's most iconic labels" by Decanter's Clive Pursehouse, Marques de Murrieta is a bastion of classically styled Rioja. These top-scoring flagship Reserva, the signature Gran Reserva, and the highly coveted Castillo Ygay are all emblematic of the estate's reputation for benchmark Rioja expressions with top-tier cellar potential.

A standard bearer for value every vintage, the double 96-point 2021 Rioja Reserva seems to have hit a new benchmark for this flagship cuvée in "one one of the finest vintages in recent times," as Luis Gutiérrez describes the 2021 campaign in Rioja. "Even more outstanding than the 2020" (which garnered big press in its own right), this rendition is the epitome of an overachiever. For under $30, you can enjoy a world-class Rioja tonight or you can stack the cellar. "Elegant yet perfectly structured ... It offers immediate appeal but will age gracefully for many years to come," declares Decanter. Simply put, wine lovers of all stripes will be hard pressed to find better bang for their buck.

"Juicy and seamless, this is impressive for its generosity and plush texture..." - MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator

Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and none of their wines is more widely loved and admired for that style than the iconic Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz. A blend of four top-notch McLaren Vale vineyards, including Mollydooker's own estate, plus a touch of Langhorne Creek fruit, the 2022 was barrel-fermented and aged entirely in American oak, half new, giving it the customary spicy complexity that accents the luxurious fruit for which Mollydooker is so famous. At our razor-sharp pricing, all you need to do is load up and enjoy!

As the head of the historic Champagne house named for his grandfather Andre Clouet, larger than life vigneron Jean-François Clouet is considered by critics as one of the top grower-producers in the region. Jean-François' flamboyant personality, dubbed by one reviewer as a combination of "winemaker and circus ringmaster," belies his serious dedication and singular passion for producing rich and concentrated expressions of Pinot Noir-based Champagne, also known as Blanc de Noirs. From the outstanding 91pt non-vintage Grande Reserve to the exceptional 96pt Brut 1911, the champagnes of Andre Clouet exhibit the purity of the Pinot Noir fruit, with terroir-driven chalky minerality and deep complexity, ranking Andre Clouet among the region's finest producers and representing one of its best values.

Inextricably tied to Champagne's history, the Clouet family have resided in the Montagne de Reims since 1492, first serving as book printers for King Louis XV in 1491 (a legacy now reflected in the Champagne house's ornate labels), producing their first champagne in Bouzy in 1741. Highlighting the Grand Cru pedigree of their 8 hectares of mid-slope sites in Bouzy and Ambonnay, the top cuvees are sourced from these estate vineyards, with additional Pinot Noir purchased from 60 hectares of growers' vineyards and each plot vinified separately. While upholding his family's traditional approach in the vineyard including hand pruning and selection, Francois continues to innovate in the cellar, including employing Sauternes barrels sourced from Château Doisy-Daëne for aging the Brut 1911 as a way of reducing the dosage, with the goal of adjusting sweetness without adding sugar. Exhibiting a gentle mousse and refined bubbles, the wines of André Clouet also boast notably creamy textures due to Jean-François' practice of extended aging on the lees, balancing crisp acidity and tantalizing minerality.

While Andre Clouet remains relatively under the radar among the grower-producers in Champagne, these highly rated selections are among the best Blanc de Noir wines of the region, at a fraction of the price of prestige offerings from the larger Champagne houses like Krug and Bollinger. With the holiday season quickly approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on an array of the exquisite, artisanal Champagnes of Andre Clouet, one of the finest grower estates in the region today, whether for everyday enjoyment, celebrations or gifting and now offered at the best pricing on the market.

Anyone who knows Rioja knows that Lopez de Heredia is the standard-bearer for the classic soul of the region, turning out definitive renditions in a remarkable consistent style for over six decades. Part of their undeniable appeal is the estate's vast cellars, where they have enviable capacity to age wines to perfection before releasing them to market.Case in point is the newly arrived 2013 Vina Tondonia Reserva, just now hitting the market after over a decade at rest in the LdH cellars.

"Medium-bodied with chalky grip and a layered, tertiary finish, this is a benchmark classic—refined, enduring and unmistakably Tondonia."- Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous

From a cool, wet vintage, it's a stunning achievement of "canonical" style that shows this iconic Spanish estate at its very best. Modest alcohol, bright acidity and super-refined tannins give plenty of framing for the calcareous Tondonia soils to impart their personality on the wine, Like all Lopez new releases, it's showing its exceptional personality thanks to proper aging at the estate, but this is undoubtedly a classic Rioja cellar gem that should be stocked deep to enjoy time and time again over the next two decades, an easy proposition considering our flat-out ridiculous sub-$40 price.

If you've been a fan of Spanish wine over the past ten years or so, you've probably been waiting for Albariño to get the attention it deserves on the world stage, and while it still takes a back seat to Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and the like, the best examples are still shining brightly and only getting better with each passing vintage.

La Caña has long been a benchmark producer of this one-of-a-kind varietal, working with top-notch sites in the Salnès sub-zone of Rías Baixas, widely considered ground zero for the most quintessential expressions. Year after year, their entry-level bottling far outperforms its price point in the critical press, with all the customary bright citrus and tropical fruit, vibrant acidity, and textured charm that Albariño aficionados have come to know and love. While the 2024 has yet to be reviewed professionally, we recently got a chance to try it with importer Jorge Ordoñez, and we can confidently say this rendition picks up right where previous vintages have left off, with more glowing praise no doubt in store in the near future. Meanwhile, you have a great opportunity to stock up on a fan-favorite crowd pleaser that seems tailor-made for summer soirées and warm days by the pool, so don't hesitate to lock in at our market-best price.

As the head of the historic Champagne house named for his grandfather Andre Clouet, larger than life vigneron Jean-François Clouet is considered by critics as one of the top grower-producers in the region. Jean-François' flamboyant personality, dubbed by one reviewer as a combination of "winemaker and circus ringmaster," belies his serious dedication and singular passion for producing rich and concentrated expressions of Pinot Noir-based Champagne, also known as Blanc de Noirs. From the outstanding 91pt non-vintage Grande Reserve to the exceptional 96pt Brut 1911, the champagnes of Andre Clouet exhibit the purity of the Pinot Noir fruit, with terroir-driven chalky minerality and deep complexity, ranking Andre Clouet among the region's finest producers and representing one of its best values.

Inextricably tied to Champagne's history, the Clouet family have resided in the Montagne de Reims since 1492, first serving as book printers for King Louis XV in 1491 (a legacy now reflected in the Champagne house's ornate labels), producing their first champagne in Bouzy in 1741. Highlighting the Grand Cru pedigree of their 8 hectares of mid-slope sites in Bouzy and Ambonnay, the top cuvees are sourced from these estate vineyards, with additional Pinot Noir purchased from 60 hectares of growers' vineyards and each plot vinified separately. While upholding his family's traditional approach in the vineyard including hand pruning and selection, Francois continues to innovate in the cellar, including employing Sauternes barrels sourced from Château Doisy-Daëne for aging the Brut 1911 as a way of reducing the dosage, with the goal of adjusting sweetness without adding sugar. Exhibiting a gentle mousse and refined bubbles, the wines of André Clouet also boast notably creamy textures due to Jean-François' practice of extended aging on the lees, balancing crisp acidity and tantalizing minerality.

While Andre Clouet remains relatively under the radar among the grower-producers in Champagne, these highly rated selections are among the best Blanc de Noir wines of the region, at a fraction of the price of prestige offerings from the larger Champagne houses like Krug and Bollinger. With the holiday season quickly approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on an array of the exquisite, artisanal Champagnes of Andre Clouet, one of the finest grower estates in the region today, whether for everyday enjoyment, celebrations or gifting and now offered at the best pricing on the market.

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. The  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.

We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat."

With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues.

Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank.

This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer.

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. The 2023 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, 2023 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.

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, the historic property that helped put Napa Valley Cabernet on the world wine map, is still going strong, now under the full ownership of the Antinori group, who have made significant strides at paring back quantity in the pursuit of elevated quality up and down the range. 

"No matter the vintage, this winery consistently delivers." - Decanter

Year after year, the flagship Artemis Cabernet is a category best seller, recognized by Napa Cab fans everywhere as a consistent choice for classic character and expression. The 2022 Artemis is an ideal introduction to the vintage at Stag's Leap, as well as a perfect choice for anyone looking for an accessible Napa Cab that still offers that extra level of class and distinction. The 94-point 2022 is a "dark-fruited, well-balanced and savory wine" showcasing "precise, superfine tannins" that lend it easy approachability and broad appeal. We just secured our parcel at a remarkable price that puts it under $50 and well below any other price on the market. 

"Suffice it to say, Ridge is firing on all cylinders." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

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 Geyserville 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 "pure, expressive" 2021 is the perfect counterpoint to the "take-no-prisoners" 2022, each wine boasted 95 points among a host great accolades.

Of course, Ridge is also renowned for delivering serious bang for the buck throughout their extensive range, a perennial favorite is the 2023 Three Valleys. 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. Finally, the double 93-point 2022 Paso Robles Zinfandel is "brambly and dynamic" with a big personality defined by its "terrific core of sweet fruit, supple tannins and outstanding length." In other words, it's a quintessential California Zin that delivers the all the features that Ridge fans crave.

With outstanding value offerings like these, as well as monumental collectibles, and everything in between, Ridge is still a California icon that deserves its place in the pantheon of great names.

"Acknowledging that 2019 is already a heralded vintage, the salient question is whether it represents the summit of the 2018, 2019 and 2020 triumvirate. 'Yes' is the answer. I have always felt that is the case." - Neal Martin, Vinous

Of course, you may or may not agree with Martin in terms of 2019 place in the "trifecta," but it's undeniable that is a truly spectacular Bordeaux vintage that has more than lived up to its day-one hype since the wine's have hit the market, hit collector's cellars, and found their way into the glasses of impatient enthusiasts. Best of all, pricing has always been highly favorable compared to 2018 and 2020 (to say nothing of 2022), so the 2019s have also been some of the sharpest collectible buys on the market from the get-go and remain so today.

We've just landed a must-see treasure trove from this heralded campaign at ... you guessed it ... razor-sharp pricing cross the board, with superb performers in every classification and price tier.

"Luca De Ferrari and the team at Boscarelli make some of the most beautiful wines in the appellation." - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

Of course, Montalcino is ground zero in Italy for Sangiovese, but savvy Italian insiders know that some of the varietal's best bangs for the buck can be found in Montepulciano. Situated southwest of Chianti, Montepulciano's slightly warmer climate means there's no shortage of ripeness in its wines, but the sandy, well-draining soils also imbue them with striking minerality that's more intense than in the wines of Chianti or even Montalcino. This trio from Boscarelli highlights one of the region's most accomplished estates firing on all cylinders.

The 94-point 2021 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano "is a total pleasure to the senses" according to Vinous,offering the elevated terroir expression that one typically finds in the finest examples from further north. The estate's benchmark pedigree, however, is on full display in the two Riserva bottlings below. The 2020 Riserva is a "sleek yet solidly built red," demonstrating the age-worthy quality of a great Vino Nobile according toWine Spectator's 95-point review. Also notching 95 points from James Suckling, the 2019 Riserva Sotto Casa is a stellar expression of the estate's most prized plot planted to high density in alluvial, red clay soils. A blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, it's a captivating example of what makes Montepulciano such a dynamic region.

Producing a range of "well-made and well-priced cuvees" according to Vinous critic Neal Martin, these top scoring Red Burgundy selections from Domaine Jessiaume deliver outstanding value among the region's ever rising prices, an age worthy array from an under the radar appellation at best on the market pricing for savvy collectors to stock the cellar.

Established at the entrance of the tiny village of Santenay in 1850, Domaine Jessiaume crafts its small production Burgundy wines ranging from village level to 1er Cru from 15 hectares of organically farmed vineyards under the ownership of French researcher Dr. Jean-Francois Le Bigot since 2020, employing a low intervention approach including fermenting the grapes with indigenous yeasts and limiting the use of new French oak to preserve the freshness of the fruit. From Santenay's top 1er Cru and named for its unique gravelly soils, Jasper Morris describes the flagship 94 pt. 2022 Domaine Jessiaume Santenay Les Gravieres 1er Cru as "busting with energy without sacrificing finesse," its rich, spiced fruit layered with lush tannins and bright acidity on "an impeccable finish."

Described by Inside Burgundy's Jasper Morris as "wines of significant refinement," these Domaine Jessiaume selections deliver significant value as well, offering Burgundy lovers and collectors a rare opportunity to stock up by the case at a price that doesn't break the bank.