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| 2019 Chateau Malartic-Lagraviere Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "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. | ||
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| 2023 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel (750ml) | ||
| Zinfandel from Napa, California | ||
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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, 2022 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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| 2020 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Muga is an undeniable icon and reference-point for Rioja, occupying a prime position at the nexus of the classic styles of yesteryear and the modern polish that has come to many of the top estates in recent years, as investment in new techniques and expertise has driven quality standards higher and higher. "... a textbook example of this wine."- Luis Gutierrez,Wine Advocate The Seleccion Especial Reserva is always a crowd and collectible favorite in the range and always priced well for a broad audience yet offering the kind of cellar-worthy appeal that serious collectors are looking for. The 2020 rendtion ramps up the collectible appeal thanks to a particular feature of the vintage itself – no Prado Enea was made in 2020, so all the fruit and juice that would normally comprise that flagship icon has instead gone into the Seleccion Especial. So, it's no surprise that the wine has garnered yet more rock-solid praise from the usual suspects, starting with Jeb Dunnuck's 95-point review that highlights its "medium to full-bodied richness, a round, layered mouthfeel, and silky tannins," which makes it "already hard to resist." Still, the vintage's structured tannins mean it "should really shine with a little cellaring," according to Wine Spectator. Either way, you can load up on a surefire, perennial winner at sub-$40 price you won't find anywhere else. | ||
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| 2017 Chateau Pontet-Canet (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Alfred Tesseron and his team, led by estate manager Jean-Michel Comme, have completely transformed both the vineyards and identity of Château Pontet-Canet by embracing organic and biodynamic practices. Recognizing the extraordinary terroir of Pontet Canet – the heart lies in a plateau outcropping of Garonne Gunz gravel which overlays limestone bedrock, these poor soils allow drainage that's optimal for Cabernet. The center of this plateau is planted to Cabernet Franc which is surrounded by Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is planted on the gravelly clay soils that meet the perimeter of the gravel plateau. Tesseron's campaign for biodynamic agriculture began in 2004 and tasting results confirmed this to be the estate's future; the Medoc's first Classified Growth dedicated to biodynamics. Pontet Canet received its organic certification in 2010 and Demeter in 2014 – the world's largest certification organization for biodynamic agriculture used in 50 countries. Three Breton draft horses were added to the estate's stable replacing tractors in 2008, now at total of seven horses tend the vineyards. With great terroir and extraordinary dedication to excellence, Tesseron has elevated Pontet Canet beyond its historic performance; now among the top estates in Bordeaux. | ||
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| 2009 Chateau Pontet-Canet (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Alfred Tesseron and his team, led by estate manager Jean-Michel Comme, have completely transformed both the vineyards and identity of Château Pontet-Canet by embracing organic and biodynamic practices. Recognizing the extraordinary terroir of Pontet Canet – the heart lies in a plateau outcropping of Garonne Gunz gravel which overlays limestone bedrock, these poor soils allow drainage that's optimal for Cabernet. The center of this plateau is planted to Cabernet Franc which is surrounded by Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is planted on the gravelly clay soils that meet the perimeter of the gravel plateau. Tesseron's campaign for biodynamic agriculture began in 2004 and tasting results confirmed this to be the estate's future; the Medoc's first Classified Growth dedicated to biodynamics. Pontet Canet received its organic certification in 2010 and Demeter in 2014 – the world's largest certification organization for biodynamic agriculture used in 50 countries. Three Breton draft horses were added to the estate's stable replacing tractors in 2008, now at total of seven horses tend the vineyards. With great terroir and extraordinary dedication to excellence, Tesseron has elevated Pontet Canet beyond its historic performance; now among the top estates in Bordeaux. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Pontet-Canet (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Alfred Tesseron and his team, led by estate manager Jean-Michel Comme, have completely transformed both the vineyards and identity of Château Pontet-Canet by embracing organic and biodynamic practices. Recognizing the extraordinary terroir of Pontet Canet – the heart lies in a plateau outcropping of Garonne Gunz gravel which overlays limestone bedrock, these poor soils allow drainage that's optimal for Cabernet. The center of this plateau is planted to Cabernet Franc which is surrounded by Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is planted on the gravelly clay soils that meet the perimeter of the gravel plateau. Tesseron's campaign for biodynamic agriculture began in 2004 and tasting results confirmed this to be the estate's future; the Medoc's first Classified Growth dedicated to biodynamics. Pontet Canet received its organic certification in 2010 and Demeter in 2014 – the world's largest certification organization for biodynamic agriculture used in 50 countries. Three Breton draft horses were added to the estate's stable replacing tractors in 2008, now at total of seven horses tend the vineyards. With great terroir and extraordinary dedication to excellence, Tesseron has elevated Pontet Canet beyond its historic performance; now among the top estates in Bordeaux. | ||
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| 2020 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More B-21 Brunello mainstay Caparzo has experienced a stellar ascent under the ownership of Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini since 1998, and they're arguably producing their best wines ever. At least, that's our take from this trio of fantastic new releases from winemaker Massimo Bracalente. The 2020 vintage's best wines strike a remarkable balance that defies the warm growing conditions, and Caparzo nails that sweet spot perfectly with this 95-point normale bottling. "This is really pretty ... Creamy and so polished. It goes on for minutes. A graceful and complex 2020 Brunello," notes James Suckling, hinting at one of the vintage's finest virtues, its approachability in the near term. While some 2020s are indeed blockbusters of huge structure and ripeness, they lack the graceful balance that defines the best Brunellos, but fans of the world's best Sangioveses can rest assured that all the varietal's most striking and important features can be found in spades in this stunning expression of "ample energy and dimension." | ||
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| 2023 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Perennial B-21 fan favorite and best-seller Faust is back at it in the epic 2023 Napa vintage with a stunning rendition that will thrill long-time fans and first-time buyers alike. Quintessa founder Augustin Huneeus' stalwart Coombsville estate knocked it out of the park in the cool, balanced 2023 growing season that played perfectly into this AVA's signature style, while showing the pedigree that has long defined the entire Huneeus portfolio. "A wine of real nerve and approachability young, with ample aging potential." - James Suckling The 128-acre estate is planted in rich, gravelly loam and volcanic soils that enhance minerality, while the nearby cup-and-saucer-shaped ridge known as the "Coombsville caldera" funnels winds from the San Pablo Bay and creates conditions for extended, gradual ripening. Former Harlan and Groth winemaker David Jelinek now helms the ship at Faust and his cult-caliber skills are on full display, yielding a bold and pleasurable Cab with elegant, plush fruit and bright acidity built to age gracefully over the next decade or more. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Rol Valentin (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank. Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson. Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! | ||
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| 2023 Roth Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Wines like this one are what make it fun to be a wine drinker. Not a wine collector, not a wine connoisseur, but a wine drinker. Sure, the 2023 Roth Alexander Valley Cabernet 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, and a must-see, case-buy price, you can stock up with confidence, knowing you've found a new surefire performer to add to your go-to rotation. | ||
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| 2022 Chateau D'Issan (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Readers looking for the next superstar in Bordeaux need to jump on the bandwagon of Les Carmes Haut-Brion..." - Jeb Dunnuck Jeb Dunnuck says it all - arguably the brightest star on the Left Bank in the past decade, Les Carmes Haut Brion has stepped fully into the limelight, with a critical track record that rivals not only that of its famous First Growth neighbor, but those of every other blue-chip Bordeaux estate on the right or left bank of the Gironde. On offer today, we have four modern classic vintages that show this estate in all its contemporary glory, with multiple 100-point reviews across the range, not to mention several more that flirt with perfection. We could commence with a litany of quotes and numbers for each rendition, but suffice to say, each rendition is one of the absolute sharpest collectible buys in modern Bordeaux, and any serious collector will want to fill the cellar with this astounding vertical. | ||
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| Heaven Hill 7yr Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon (750ml) | ||
| From Bardstown, Kentucky | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "A vivacious, rich, and nicely layered Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon that delivers everything you want in a fine Whiskey for sipping and mixing high-end cocktails." - Beverage Testing Institute No introduction needed here, for the distillery or the whiskey. The 7 Year Old Bottle-in-Bond Straight Bourbon from Kentucky's most iconic distillery has been a workhorse thoroughbred in the stable since its first release in 2019, when it was named Whisky Advocate's #4 Whisky of the Year. All these years later, it's still going strong, now boasting a devoted following for its "explosive, bold, and buttery" profile that offers "pure bourbon bliss" to its legions of fans. Now we harken back to those halcyon days of 2019 with a limited-time, razor-sharp price under $40 and less than the original debut SRP. Whether it's already your go-to favorite Kentucky dram or you're looking to experience what Heaven Hill is all about for the first time, don't miss this opportunity to load up. | ||
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| 2023 Turnbull Wine Cellars Napa Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you're a fan of Napa Cabernet or simply just a casual consumer and observer of the market, you've no doubt noticed that the category has seen an explosion of prices in recent years, to the point where it's hard to imagine the words value and Napa Cabernet in the same universe, let alone the same sentence. Well, think again, because today's selection brings us a quartet of overperforming standouts that are still priced well within reach of a broad audience of wine lovers and collectors. Leading off, the 2021 Whitehall Lane Cabernet boasts a slew of solid accolades across the board. This sub-$40 gem from a long-time standard bearer of QPR excellence is "an outstanding Cabernet" according Jeb Dunnuck, "silky and supple, easy to drink, yet with enough structure." Joining Whitehall in the sub-$40 category is Turnbull's "positively stellar" 2023 Estate Cab. This wine has been one of the most consistent values in Napa for years, and the excellent 2023 vintage produced another show-stopper to the tune of 93 points from Dunnuck. Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski calls it "a super value and the rare modern-day Napa Cab under $100 that shows potential for further aging." The 2021 Sullivan Coeur de Vignes is a true classic from a historic Napa property at a smashing bargain price. "Ripe and structured but fresh in feel ... Very Rutherford" according to Wine Spectator's 94-point review. While their flagship bottlings carry price tags well into the triple digits, the 2021 Coeur de Vigne offers a chance to experience top-class Napa style and character for a small fraction of the price. Finally, the iconic Chappellet estate has hit a homerun with their 2021 Signature Cabernet, a 96-point "marvellously compact and coiled-up wine with a towering structure" that Jeb Dunnuck calls "brilliant" and for about one-fifth the price of the 99-point Pritchard Hill bottling. With the quality and value on offer in this quartet, now is the perfect chance to rediscover these treasured wines without breaking the bank. | ||
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| 2021 Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you're a fan of Napa Cabernet or simply just a casual consumer and observer of the market, you've no doubt noticed that the category has seen an explosion of prices in recent years, to the point where it's hard to imagine the words value and Napa Cabernet in the same universe, let alone the same sentence. Well, think again, because today's selection brings us a quartet of overperforming standouts that are still priced well within reach of a broad audience of wine lovers and collectors. Leading off, the 2021 Whitehall Lane Cabernet boasts a slew of solid accolades across the board. This sub-$40 gem from a long-time standard bearer of QPR excellence is "an outstanding Cabernet" according Jeb Dunnuck, "silky and supple, easy to drink, yet with enough structure." Joining Whitehall in the sub-$40 category is Turnbull's "positively stellar" 2023 Estate Cab. This wine has been one of the most consistent values in Napa for years, and the excellent 2023 vintage produced another show-stopper to the tune of 93 points from Dunnuck. Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski calls it "a super value and the rare modern-day Napa Cab under $100 that shows potential for further aging." The 2021 Sullivan Coeur de Vignes is a true classic from a historic Napa property at a smashing bargain price. "Ripe and structured but fresh in feel ... Very Rutherford" according to Wine Spectator's 94-point review. While their flagship bottlings carry price tags well into the triple digits, the 2021 Coeur de Vigne offers a chance to experience top-class Napa style and character for a small fraction of the price. Finally, the iconic Chappellet estate has hit a homerun with their 2021 Signature Cabernet, a 96-point "marvellously compact and coiled-up wine with a towering structure" that Jeb Dunnuck calls "brilliant" and for about one-fifth the price of the 99-point Pritchard Hill bottling. With the quality and value on offer in this quartet, now is the perfect chance to rediscover these treasured wines without breaking the bank. | ||
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| 2023 Domaine de l'Amandine Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from Côtes du Rhône Villages, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Domaine de l'Amandine's Mathilde Suter and her father have an enviable knack for bringing out the absolute best of the vines in their wines, and yet somehow they do it while keeping their prices almost unbelievably affordable. Indeed, these are some of the greatest buys in the appellation. The 2023 Seguret, a Syrah-dominant blend, offers everything that makes Seguret such a hotbed of savvy picks with unbeatable quality-to-price ratio. "Quite possibly our direct-import Rhône value of the year." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Rhône Buyer The sandy, limestone slopes of the estate's vineyards bring out the most charming qualities of each varietal, with the depth of the Syrah forming a sturdy core that's accented by brighter notes from the Grenache component, all the with vibrant energy of the vintage. "I have loved previous vintages of this exceptional Rhône overachiever in the past, and when I got reacquainted with it at this year’s WineParis/Vinexpo, I was thrilled to find that it’s as good as it’s ever been in the 2023 vintage," notes B-21's Andrew Kitz. The wine's charming aromatics are full-on Rhône in every sense, while the palate "is deeper and more structured than you’d expect at this price point," suggesting that the 2023 Seguret could be your new house red for years to come if you stock up at our must see, case-buy price. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Durieu Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Lucile Avril (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Domaine Durieu has been one of our most successful and enduring direct-import relationships over the past several years, with the flagship Cuvée Lucile Avril reaching all-time best seller status at B-21. We recently tasted the 2022 with François Durieu earlier this year, and it more than met our expectations. Now, a brand new, glowing 97-point review from James Suckling's senior Rhône critic puts the exclamation point on another stunning rendition that picks up right where Durieu's previous showstoppers left off. "A great masterpiece of elegance and finesse." - Stuart Pigott, JamesSuckling.com "With medium to full body, a beautifully textured mouthfeel, and ripe tannins ... [it] brings a more classic, broad, textured profile," according to Jeb Dunnuck. In other words, the 2022 Lucile Avril is a crystal clear expression of Durieu's signature winemaking style, with an emphasis on balance and freshness (he uses no oak on any of his cuvées). It bears repeating, this wine is always one of our top-selling items in the category, so our legions of Durieu fans are in for a true classic that is, once again, one of the sharpest buys of the vintage at our domaine-direct pricing. | ||
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| 2021 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries. | ||
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| 2024 Capichera Vermentino Lintori (750ml) | ||
| Vermentino from Sardinia, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Full-bodied, precise and pristine, with a silky texture and zesty acidity." - James Suckling It seems Italy's white wine scene is getting better and better with each vintage, and you can now add the 95-point 2024 Capichera Vermentino Lintori to the list of the country's benchmark, native-grape expressions. Arguably the finest estate in Sardinia's Gallura DOCG. The recent acquisition of the estate by Italian wine entrepreneur Carlo Campanini Bonomi has ensured that this iconic property not only remains a standard-bearer for the island, but that it takes its game to next level by staying true to its singular terroir. Bonomi considers the property to be one of great heritage, and it's his responsibility to carry that heritage forward. To that end, his extensive investments since his purchase are now paying off big time, as we clearly see in this riveting value performer. Harvested entirely from estate vineyards, the Lintori is quintessential Vermentino, with an intense mineral backbone balanced by full weight and texture. The original vision of Capichera's founder is on full display in this latest rendition under the estate's new ownership - to produce the finest expressions of an Italian winemaking tradition that dates back a thousand years, and to position the estate as its global ambassador. Based on the 2024 Lintori, we'd say they're succeeding with flying colors. | ||
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| Bourbon 1792 Full Proof Bourbon B-21 Single Barrel Select (750ml) | ||
| From Bardstown, Kentucky | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This almost 9-year-old single barrel is a picture-perfect showcase of the Barton style and master distiller Ken Pierce’s skill with high-rye mashbills." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer Sazerac's Barton distillery may not have nearly the cachet of its sister facility, Buffalo Trace, but it's nonetheless the source of some stellar, powerhouse expressions under the 1792 label. We selected barrel #927 for its unabashedly spicy, full-proof character, as we felt it delivered all the hallmark features that make 1792 such a savvy choice among connoisseurs of the high-rye style. As mentioned, it starts off with a huge, spice-driven personality but there's no shortage of luxury here either. Bombastic, dark fruits take center stage with a little air and water, with the rye notes playing a fabulous counterpart to all that opulence. At almost nine years old, the whiskey carries its massive 125 proof with incredible ease and sophistication, hardly showing any heat and rough edges you might expect at that level. Best of all, it's an absolute steal and a true testament to the razor-sharp value available under the 1792 label, especially in a category that has seen other single-barrel bottlings shoot through the roof in terms of pricing. | ||
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| 2021 Le Cinciole Chianti Classico (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described as a "gem of a producer" by Decanter, Podere Le Cinciole may well be the ultimate insider's Tuscan estate, these high scoring, under the radar selections expressing the estate's exceptional "golden" terroir in Chianti Classico's high altitude terrain and quietly gaining the lesser known Le Cinciole a reputation among critics including Antonio Galloni of Vinous as "one of the leading estates in all of Italy," each of these artisan-crafted red wines also among the region's top values. Situated on a biodiverse 30-hectare hilltop estate that includes an olive grove of 1,000 trees, Le Cinciole owners Luca Orsini and Valeria Vigano produce their measured, thoughtful wines from 11-hectares of biodynamically farmed vineyards in the Conca d'Oro, the amphitheater-shaped "golden basin" considered the Grand Cru of the region, planted in galestro soils of clay and schist ranging from 400 to 450 meters above sea level at one of the highest elevations in the region. Described as "one of the most distinctive wines in the appellation" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, the remarkably expressive 93 pt. 2019 Le Cinciole Chianti Classico and 92 pt. 2020 Le Cinciole Chianti Classico entry level cuvees were crafted from 100% Sangiovese and aged for 12 months in medium French oak barrels and a year in concrete before bottling, yielding seductive, earthy fruit and elegant tannins and described as "a perennial overperformer" by Decanter's Michaela Morris that's not to be missed. Crafted from 100% Sangiovese and aged well beyond the minimum requirement of 30 months for Chianti Classico's elite Gran Selezione category, Decanter critic Morris named the elegant 96 pt. 2016 Le Cinciole Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Aluigi one of her Top 10 wines of 2021, its luscious core of rich Sangiovese fruit and balanced mineral driven acidity boasting "quite a wow factor," while Monica Larner of the Wine Advocate describes the "bold" 95 pt. 2018 Gran Selezione Aluigi as having "a lovely defined character" and Antonio Galloni of Vinous praises the 96 pt. 2019 Gran Selezione Aluigi as setting the gold standard for the classification, exclaiming "what a gorgeous wine this is." A deeply layered blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah and Merlot, the exquisite 95 pt. 2016 Le Cinciole Camalaione is "absolutely gorgeous" according to critic Galloni, boasting lush dark fruits with remarkable persistence and balanced acidity, while the powerful 94 pt. 2017 Le Cinciole Camalaione "packs a huge punch" and the enticing 96 pt. 2018 Le Cinciole Camalaione is "a knockout," describing the atypical blend as offering "stunning depth and textural intensity." Sourced from 100% Sangiovese grown in a single vineyard at the estate's highest elevation, Antonio Galloni calls the flagship 97 pt. 2017 Le Cinciole Petresco "breathtaking" while the 98 pt. 2019 Le Cinciole Petresco boasts "notable depth and intensity," and like all Le Cinciole's top cuvees, both are built to deliver pleasurable drinking over the next decade and beyond. While Panzano and the Conca D'Oro have gained notoriety among collectors as the home to high profile producers like Fontodi, Le Cinciole's top scoring wines remain among Tuscany's hidden treasures, still seeming "to fly under the radar" according to Antonio Galloni and a rare opportunity for lovers and collectors of bold Tuscan reds to "strike gold" and scoop up a stash of Le Cinciole's purely irresistible wines at unbeatable prices. | ||
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| 2023 Hourglass HG III (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "It's medium to full-bodied, round, supple, and balanced, with some classic Napa richness and depth ..." - Jeb Dunnuck We'll say it time and time again – finding any Napa red with a rock-solid score and premium pedigree under $40 is a search for a needle and a haystack, but with the 94-point 2023 HGIII blend from cult phenom Hourglass, we've got the needle in hand. If you've ever looked at a map of Napa Valley, you'll see immediately where Hourglass got its name. The estate sits at the narrowest pinch where the hillsides are only a mile apart, the crux of the "hourglass" as its become known over the decades. Complementing this prized parcel, the Blueline vineyard in Calistoga was added to the estate in 2005 and planted to all five Bordeaux varietals. It's this site of ancient river gravel that forms the base of the proprietary 2023 HGIII blend, a "charming, sexy beauty" based on Merlot, crafted by winemaker Tony Biagi to be an immediately accessible, captivating expression that Napa fans can indulge in without hesitation. The incredible 2023 growing season puts its stamp on the finished wine in an outstanding balance of plush fruit and structural vivacity, "expressive and detailed" to the utmost with varietal purity to spare. While the flagship Hourglass wines have become cult-caliber trophies over the years (with the price tags to match), the HGIII blend is a stunning and exceedingly rare value in today's Napa landscape that will thrill anyone's palate and budget. | ||
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| 2022 Schoffit Riesling Clos St Theobald Grand Cru Rangen de Thann (750ml) | ||
| Riesling from Alsace, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The wines are compelling in a rather quiet way, understated but so convincing." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous "They are of a consistently high quality and, in my opinion, still far too rarely on the radar of importers, retailers and sommeliers." - Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate Alsace as a whole is often considered an under-the-radar region, so when we come upon a domaine that is known as "under the radar," it's safe to say it's probably far under the radar. The shame is, as Wine Advocate's Stephan Reinhardt notes above, that wines and domaines like these deserve far more attention. However, clued-in and savvy wine collectors can reap serious benefits in the form of world-class cellar contenders at prices that are a fraction of what you'd pay for comparable quality and pedigree from Burgundy, Champagne, or virtually anywhere else in France. Domaine Schoffit's vineyard stable is loaded with prime sites, but the unquestioned jewel in the crown is the Clos St-Théobald in the Rangen de Thann Grand Cru, inarguably the finest vineyard in Alsace. At 6.5 hectares, the Clos is now a monopole since Bernard Schoffit completed his ambitious reclamation project to unite the entire site under his domaine. The super-steep slopes and volcanic soitls produce one of the world's most distinctive Rieslings, and the 97-point 2022 ranks among the greatest vintages ever made of this wine. Not to be overlooked, the 2022 Sommerberg Grand Cru Riesling is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of aromatic purity and textural intensity. Finally, the 2022 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, particularly "the glorious spice of Gewürztraminer" as Anne Krebiehl notes. It bears repeating – these wines belong on the short list of Alsace's finest names along side the Weinbachs, Trimbachs, and Zind-Humbrechts, so if you're a serious Alsace fan or collector of the world's best Rieslings, make room in the cellar. You'll be so glad you did. | ||
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| 2018 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Readers looking for the next superstar in Bordeaux need to jump on the bandwagon of Les Carmes Haut-Brion..." - Jeb Dunnuck Jeb Dunnuck says it all - arguably the brightest star on the Left Bank in the past decade, Les Carmes Haut Brion has stepped fully into the limelight, with a critical track record that rivals not only that of its famous First Growth neighbor, but those of every other blue-chip Bordeaux estate on the right or left bank of the Gironde. On offer today, we have four modern classic vintages that show this estate in all its contemporary glory, with multiple 100-point reviews across the range, not to mention several more that flirt with perfection. We could commence with a litany of quotes and numbers for each rendition, but suffice to say, each rendition is one of the absolute sharpest collectible buys in modern Bordeaux, and any serious collector will want to fill the cellar with this astounding vertical. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Laroque (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank. Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson. Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! | ||
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| 2023 Hartford Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Russian River, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More 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. The 2023 Russian River Pinot Noir delivers everything that long-time fans of the estate are looking for. Pure Pinot Noir charm is on full display in vibrant, ripe fruit, silky texture, and, most importantly, superb balance, all at an easy price that makes this undisputed crowd-pleaser accessible to a broad audience. The 2023 Russian River Chardonnay is "a worthy follow-up to the brilliant 2022," displaying classic, richly textured Russian River fruit, vibrant acidic balance, and a luxurious finish that reveals its world-class pedigree. Fans of California Chardonnay may have grown used to overpaying for underwhelming quality, but this 94-point, sub-$20 beauty is ideally suited to buck that trend. Turning to the estate's wheelhouse, don't miss the trio of top-flight, single-vineyard Zinfandels, highlighted by the WS96 Highwire Vineyard from the acclaimed 2023 vintage. "Zin rarely shows this much focus and tenstion," notes Wine Spectator, and we couldn't agree more. Whether you're looking for an easy everyday go-to or a top-tier reference-point expression for the cellar, this range from Hartford has it in spades. | ||
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| 2023 Napanook by Dominus Red (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The 2023 Napanook offers ... a medium-bodied, very pretty, pure, elegant, and graceful style." - Jeb Dunnuck There a few names with more cult-collectible cachet in Napa than Dominus, and few who can afford that benchmark luxury cuvée, but for anyone who wants to experience the Dominus pedigree without going hungry for a month, there's the always-overachieving Napanook. The second wine of the Dominus estate is crafted by the same world-class winemaker from the same hallowed vines, all for a fraction of the price of the grand vin. From a vintage that is already receiving epic accolades across the critical press, the 2023 Napanook delivers the goods in the same manner that previous great vintages have. This "classic, classy Cabernet" is a bright glimpse at what the grand vin will be in due time in this special vintage, without the requisite fifteen years of cellar time. "Deep, bold and luscious right out of the gate," according to Antonio Galloni, it's a Napa fan's dream – all the hallmark pedigree of a collectible with none of the overwrought flair and pomp that seem to characterize so many "modern" Napa cabs these days, and all for a market-low price under $70.
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| 2024 Invivo X, SJP Sarah Jessica Parker Sauvignon Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Garnering a steady string of 90-point-plus ratings vintage over vintage, the appealing 92-point 2024 Invivo X Sauvignon Blanc Sarah Jessica Parker is the real deal, offering classic Marlborough flavors of fresh, aromatic passion fruit, peach, and grapefruit with bright acidity on a smooth and juicy finish, appearing multiple times on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Values since its first release in 2019 and a solid choice for fans of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc seeking outstanding value. From an excellent Marlborough vintage producing Sauvignon Blancs that are "pure, juicy and fresh, with zesty acidity," according to Rebecca Gibb of Vinous, the refreshing 92-point 2024 Invivo X Sauvignon Blanc Sarah Jessica Parker boasts an appeal that goes far beyond celebrity and loyal SJP fans, a terrific choice for anyone seeking a delicious, easy drinking white as well as lovers of New Zealand Sauv Blanc looking for an affordable, everyday pour and an unbeatable bargain for stocking up by the case. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Lynch-Bages (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "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. | ||
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| J.M. Terroir Volcanique Rhum Agricole | ||
| From Martinique, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most fascinating aspects of the rum world is the mind-boggling variety of styles that result from virtually every step in the production process. In the case of the J.M Rhum Agricole Terroir Volcanique, it's a combination of features that produce an uncommonly singular profile for its sub-$35 price point. It starts with J.M.'s sugar cane, grown entirely on the distillery's estate in the heavily volcanic soils of the slopes of Mt. Pelée, Martinique's landmark mountain and the heart and soul of the J.M. distillery. It continues with the distillery's Creole copper column still, and finishes with Master Blender Karine Lassalle's innovative double-barreling regimen. The new make is first subjected to re-charred, used bourbon barrels then finished in heavy "alligator char" ex-rum barrels, all of which results in a distinctively complex spirit that still retains the youthful signature of cane juice base. The 96-point Terroir Volcanique offers up "more fun and intrigue than should be possible in a rum at this price point," as B-21 Spirits Buyer Andrew Kitz notes. With plenty of fruit-forward charm to go around, the Terroir Volcanique also asserts the barrel character and its volcanique origins in a firm, smoky minerality that balances the luxurious rhum agricole flavors and aromas. It's a rum made for sipping, but it's bound to add layers of nuance to all your favorite tiki cocktails as well. And now at a market-best price under $35, it's easy to go big and make it a staple in your home bar. | ||
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