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| 2024 La Cana Albariño (750ml) | ||
| Albarino from Rias Baixas, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More 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. | ||
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| 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti 1853 Old Vine Estate Heritage Malbec (750ml) | ||
| Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More “An Argentine winemaker with rock star appeal...” - Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast From one of “the most dynamic winemakers in Argentina” according to James Suckling, the thrilling 96-point 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti 1853 Old Vine Estate Heritage Malbec boasts 100-point winemaker pedigree from the Uco Valley’s oldest Malbec vines, revealing ripe, juicy dark fruit with bright acidity on a lasting, savory finish and layered with plush tannins promising longevity at a remarkable value price. Gaining international recognition as the first Argentinian-born winemaker to garner a perfect Parker score for his 100-point 2010 Chateau La Violette Pomerol, Uco Valley native Marcelo Pelleriti established his eponymous winery on his family’s 110-year-old farm in La Consulta in 2007 and began a long-term collaboration with partner Miguel Priore in 2009, their shared vision to craft terroir-expressive Grand Cru wines encapsulating “the spirit of winemaking precision and creativity” in Uco Valley. Naming the estate for the year when the first Malbec vines arrived from France, Marcelo crafted the powerful 2019 Heritage Malbec from low-yielding, gnarled, pre-phylloxera Malbec vines aged over 100 years. The vineyard was vplanted in 1910 in rugged, silty loam and gravel soil at 1,050 meters above sea level, yielding tiny clusters of thick-skinned berries requiring the fruit of two vines to produce enough for a single bottle, imbuing his 1853 Malbec with rich concentration and staggering intensity. After fermenting the hand-harvested grapes with indigenous yeasts, Marcelo aged the impressive 2019 rendition for 24 months in French oak barrels with 12 months longer in bottle, yielding a “well-crafted and keenly priced” Malbec, revealing fresh, intensely concentrated fruit framed by ripe, polished tannins on a long and silky finish, the densely structured Malbec imbued with old vine complexity that guarantees longevity. From a region producing “Argentina's best and most modern wines” according to Vinous critic Joaquin Hidalgo, the remarkably talented Marcelo Pelleriti is at the forefront of crafting terroir expressive Malbec in the Uco Valley, his blockbuster 96-point 2019 Marcelo Pelleriti 1853 Old Vine Estate Heritage Malbec offering aficionados and collectors of the best South American wines an exciting opportunity to jump on board Pelleriti’s ever-rising trajectory and enjoy one of Argentina’s most extraordinary Malbec values. | ||
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| 2021 Tignanello Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More When the iconic Super Tuscan collectible Tignanello racked up one massive score after another in the 2021 vintage, you could be sure that same unbelievable quality extended across the entire range from Antinori, and the 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Marchesi Antinori proves it in spades. "This is one of the big surprises of this tasting and ultimately represents one of the best buys in the entire extended Marchesi Antinori portfolio." - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate Larner sums it up nicely right there in describing this Sangiovese-based blend that earned 94+ points from her. Made from declassified estate fruit that doesn't make it into the grand vin, this is a true "baby Tignanello" in every sense. Antonio Galloni from Vinous calls it "particularly strong ... a terrific showing," and a pair of 95-point scores from James Suckling and Wine Spectator round out an impressive critical line for a sophisticated Tuscan overachiever. If you're a Tignanello fan who's put away some of the monumental 2021 grand vin and want to get a glimpse of what it has in store without opening a precious bottle too early, this is your answer. Or, maybe you're a fan of classic Tuscan character who wants to experience some of the magic of Tignanello without the hefty price tag. Either way, the sub-$45 Marchesi Antinori Riserva offers just that opportunity. | ||
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| 2022 Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay Tré Terre (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Russian River, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sonoma's standard-bearer Ferrari-Carano needs little introduction. These quintessential California classics have been all-time best sellers at B-21 for years, and it's always nice to see a standard bearer continue to hit the mark. These 2021s and 2022s showcase winemaking duo Rebecka Deike and Natalie West at their best, all notching solid press from James Suckling and offering outstanding value and consistent excellence. The "Ripe yet elegantly balanced and refreshing" 2023 Chardonnay is a top-shelf value performer at 91 points & under $16, a perfect option for your next go-to house white. A step (or two) up at 94 points, the 2022 Tre Terre is "full bodied with lovely texture and tension" per Suckling, outpacing it's sub-$25 price. For the reds, the 2021 Siena hits on all cylinders for fans of this QPR best seller, while the 2021 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon catches 92 points from Suckling, who notes, "Medium-bodied with fine tannins and beautiful length. Bright and vivid. Plenty of cabernet character." If you're looking for surefire quality at an easy price, you almost have too many good options with these Sonoma classics. | ||
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| 2022 Frank Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon 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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| 2021 Robert Mondavi The Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville is straight-up fabulous..." - Jeb Dunnuck No name in California wine history is as synonymous with Napa Cabernet as Robert Mondavi. Sourced from this revered estate's iconic To Kalon vineyard, an undisputed California "grand cru," the 2021 The Estates Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon makes the most of its pedigree and this acclaimed Napa vintage. A bevy of glowing praise, including 95 points from Decanter and 94 points each from Antonio Galloni and Jeb Dunnuck, confirms the wine's place as yet another benchmark expression of the valley's most famous AVA. "A wine of gravitas and power, the 2021 has a lot to offer," notes Galloni, who goes on to praise "a new level of energy and vibrancy in the Mondavi wines that is compelling." Rather than rest on their laurels, the team at Mondavi have redoubled their efforts to keep turning out stunning renditions such as this, and fans of expertly crafted Napa Valley Cabernet can add it to their cellars at a remarkable, sub-$60 price that's handily beats the rest of the market. | ||
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| 2016 Muga Prado Enea Gran Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Bodegas Muga's status as an all-time Rioja reference-point is reaffirmed with this sterling foursome of releases that we just secured at razor-sharp pricing. Leading off we have a Prado Enea for the ages. "The expressive, complex and nuanced 2016 Prado Enea Gran Reserva is a textbook traditional Rioja in the making ... with all the components in the right proportion to age superbly in bottle." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and this WA97+ rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. A universally lauded expression of this classic Rioja Gran Reserva, the 2016 boasts towering press including no fewer than four 97-point scores, putting it in rarified air among the greatest vintages of this Spanish icon in the 21st century. "A brilliant wine with a solid two decades of prime drinking ahead of it" per Jeb Dunnuck, this is collectible Rioja class at its very best, and it's now available to our private clients at a must-see price that you won't find anywhere else. The Selección 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 double 95-point 2019 "has to be one of the finest vintages for this wine ... a powerful vintage with balance and freshness" according to Gutiérrez. Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo likewise declares, "This red stands out for its crystal-clear expression, showcasing a range of Rioja's virtures." 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 Selección Especial. So, it's no surprise that the 2020 picks up right where the 2019 leaves off, led by 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." Finally, the newly released 2021 Reserva Rioja is one of the sharpest values in Spanish wine, "a textbook example of [Muga's] style in a very good year, with power, concentration and clout, elegance and freshness" perGutiérrez' 94-point review in Wine Advocate.It's a perfect candidate to stack by the case, since it will not only cruise for several years in the cellar, but it will quench your thirst for Muga excellence anytime over the next decade while the you wait for the big boys to reach their prime drinking windows. For fans of Spanish wine and of Rioja in particular, this is a spectacular opportunity to load up on proven performers that will put many smiles on your face for countless years to come, at market-best pricing. | ||
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| 2010 Chateau Suduiraut Ex-Chateau 2022 (750ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King’s grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d’Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as “a mood altering wine,” the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts “a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop” according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate’s Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut “unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish.” Boasting “a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit,” Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a “benchmark Suduiraut” and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut “simply magnificent” and “a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the “fabulous” 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut “such a gorgeous wine,” delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining “gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls it “a great wine with a long-term future.” Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: “It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing.” Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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| 2019 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More It seems the 2019 Brunello vintage is the gift that keeps on giving, as we're still unearthing stellar collectible opportunities on the region's most sought-after names. "Il Poggione remains one of the absolute top producers of Brunello from year to year at a remarkably fair price point." - Eric Guido, Vinous Il Poggione's classically structured, spice-driven style is on full display in the 2019, which captures the very best of this remarkable Brunello vintage. The expansive estate in the warmer southern sub-zone of Montalcino benefits greatly in balanced growing seasons, where the wine's hallmark power can stretch its legs without going overboard. Vinous' Eric Guido declares it "Enveloping and serene ... Il Poggione has captured the radiance of the vintage, yet this is just a baby today." Boasting true collectible potential at great pricing, Poggione's 2019 Brunello is another notch in an impressive recent track record for a bona fide Tuscan benchmark estate. | ||
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| 2023 Kelley Fox Willamette Valley Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Willamette, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declared “one of the most exciting portfolios of wines made in the United States” by Eric Guido of Vinous, these Kelley Fox selections from Willamette Valley include a top scoring range of elegant vineyard-expressive Pinot Noirs and a rich, energetic Chardonnay, her record of exceptional quality earning the portfolio a devoted cult following worldwide and available in limited quantities outside her exclusive winery list. Establishing her winery in 2007 with her father Gus Stearns, Kelley Fox was mentored by David Lett of The Eyrie Vineyards before spending a decade as the winemaker at Scott Paul Wines, crafting her wines as a transparent expression of their vineyard origins with limited intervention in the winery and gaining access over her career to some of Oregon's top vineyards. Employing small lot fermentations with all native yeasts and aging in in used barrels, Eric Guido of Vinous describes Kelley’s 2022 Pinot Noirs as “lifted, finessed and ethereal yet still vibrantly fruit-focused and nearly spiritual in the way that seemingly only Pinot Noir can be,” while the white wines are “potent and rich yet driven by an energetic mineral core that adds remarkable depth.” Sourced from the Dundee Hills AVA, the entry level 92 pt. 2022 Kelly Fox Pinot Noir Mirabai offers “soft elegant fruit as well as a supple texture and fresh acidity” according to Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck, while the beautifully aromatic 96 pt. 2022 Kelley Fox Liminal Maresh Vineyard Pinot Noir has “approachable, fine tannins, vibrant, mouthwatering, even acidity, and crystalline purity” and promises to evolve for over a decade. Vinous critic Eric Guido calls the rich and juicy 96 pt. 2022 Kelley Fox Durant Vineyard Pinot Noir “a model of purity, silken to the core” with “unbelievable freshness,” while the fresh and zesty 96 pt. 2022 Kelley Fox Maresh Vineyard Golden-Crowned Sparrow Blocks Pinot Noir is “darkly alluring” with “silky textures and simulating acidity,” both built for a decade or more of enjoyment. Sourced from the Freedom Hill Vineyard and aged in stainless steel for six months, Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck calls the 93 pt. 2023 Kelley Fox Willamette Valley Chardonnay “hard to resist,” offering fresh, spiced fruit with “outstanding energy propelling it through the lovely, savory, mineral-noted finish” and declaring it “a tremendous value.” Focusing on the clearest expression of a vineyard's character, Kelley Fox is a name for Oregon wine fans to add to their must try list, or as succinctly stated by Vinous critic Eric Guido, “Anyone looking for Oregon Pinot Noir purity and transparent communication of terroir from the soil to the vine to the bottle must explore Kelley Fox Wines.” | ||
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| 2021 Bodegas Muga Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Bodegas Muga's status as an all-time Rioja reference-point is reaffirmed with this sterling foursome of releases that we just secured at razor-sharp pricing. Leading off we have a Prado Enea for the ages. "The expressive, complex and nuanced 2016 Prado Enea Gran Reserva is a textbook traditional Rioja in the making ... with all the components in the right proportion to age superbly in bottle." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and this WA97+ rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. A universally lauded expression of this classic Rioja Gran Reserva, the 2016 boasts towering press including no fewer than four 97-point scores, putting it in rarified air among the greatest vintages of this Spanish icon in the 21st century. "A brilliant wine with a solid two decades of prime drinking ahead of it" per Jeb Dunnuck, this is collectible Rioja class at its very best, and it's now available to our private clients at a must-see price that you won't find anywhere else. The Selección 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 double 95-point 2019 "has to be one of the finest vintages for this wine ... a powerful vintage with balance and freshness" according to Gutiérrez. Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo likewise declares, "This red stands out for its crystal-clear expression, showcasing a range of Rioja's virtures." 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 Selección Especial. So, it's no surprise that the 2020 picks up right where the 2019 leaves off, led by 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." Finally, the newly released 2021 Reserva Rioja is one of the sharpest values in Spanish wine, "a textbook example of [Muga's] style in a very good year, with power, concentration and clout, elegance and freshness" perGutiérrez' 94-point review in Wine Advocate.It's a perfect candidate to stack by the case, since it will not only cruise for several years in the cellar, but it will quench your thirst for Muga excellence anytime over the next decade while the you wait for the big boys to reach their prime drinking windows. For fans of Spanish wine and of Rioja in particular, this is a spectacular opportunity to load up on proven performers that will put many smiles on your face for countless years to come, at market-best pricing. | ||
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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 Described over recent vintages as “one of Bordeaux’s stars” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, these high scoring 98-100 pt. selections from Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion are among Pessac-Leognan’s most unique and age worthy blends from three top vintages, reflecting Les Carmes Haut-Brion’s “distinctive, Cabernet Franc-driven DNA” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and all incredibly priced well below its First Growth neighbors. Situated just a few rows of houses away from Chateau Haut-Brion, Les Carmes Haut Brion was once part of the First Growth with roots dating back to the 16th century, enjoying a stratospheric rise in quality led by the former winemaker of iconic Rhone producer M. Chapoutier Guillaume Pouthier along with renowned consultant Stephane Derenoncourt under the ownership of Patrice Pichet since 2010. Described as “a magical terroir” by Jeb Dunnuck, the Grand Vin is sourced from the top 7.6 hectares of the estate’s sustainably farmed 30 hectares of vines planted mostly to Cabernet Franc and Merlot with about a fifth Cabernet Sauvignon, the best terroir near the Chateau boasting Cab Franc vines dating back to World War II. Declared “a dead ringer for Haut-Brion” by Jeb Dunnuck, the magnificent 100 pt. 2018 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion is a blend of 37% Cabernet Franc, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot matured in 75% new French oak barrels along with 16% foudres and 9% in terracotta amphoras for 24 months, revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated earthy black fruit with crushed stone and seamless, supple tannins, described as a “wine of dazzling intensity and stature” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous and summed up as “a total knockout” built to deliver the goods over the next 30 plus years. A blend of 48% Cabernet Franc, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot aged for 24 months in 84% new French oak barrels with 7% in foudres and 9% in terracotta amphoras, the elegant 98 pt. 2019 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion is called “a gorgeous 2019” by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson layering fresh, luscious aromatic fruit with refined, integrated tannins and boasting “a drinkability that makes you want a glass now, but could happily be enjoyed decades from now” according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle, ranking #18 on Decanter’s Top Wines of 2023. Described as a “heavenly wine” that “you probably couldn't have too much of in the cellar” by Jeb Dunnuck, the full-bodied 2020 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion is a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Merlot aged in 80% new French oak barrels along with 11% in foudres and 9% in terracotta amphoras for 24 months, yielding a thrilling and exquisitely balanced blend summed up by Vinous critic Neal Martin as “a serious Les Carmes Haut-Brion with a very long future ahead.” Summing up the magical, riveting qualities of Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion, Jeb Dunnuck offers unequivocal advice: “Believe the hype,” these top vintages of Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion promising the epic ageability of its First Growth neighbor and value priced for Bordeaux collectors to stock the cellar at a fraction of the price. | ||
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| 2022 Lingua Franca Avni Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Willamette, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The team [at Lingua Franca] led by winemaker Thomas Savre is producing a portfolio of wines that show the power and complexity possible to obtain in Oregon." - Eric Guido, Vinous Renowned for crafting top-scoring Burgundy for his family’s Côte-de-Beaune estate, master winemaker Dominique Lafon worked as a consultant to Oregon’s Evening Land Vineyards before collaborating with master sommelier and Evening Land general manager Larry Stone to co-found Lingua Franca in Willamette Valley’s Eola-Amity Hills in 2015. Lafon's expertise at crafting exceptional Burgundy was credited with driving Evening Land’s rising reputation early on. Purchasing the 140-acre Janzen Farm, a prime parcel situated next to Evening Land’s Seven Springs site and adjacent to Domaine Serene’s Jerusalem Hill Vineyard, Stone and Lafon then worked with renowned Willamette viticulturist Mimi Casteel to determine the precise mix of clones to plant based on the site’s varied soils, utilizing organic and biodynamic viticulture throughout the estate’s 66-acre vineyard and hiring Evening Land’s former assistant winemaker and Lafon protege Thomas Savre to craft its vineyard-driven wines. Boasting experience at legendary Burgundy estates including Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Domaine Dujac, and Maison Nicolas Potel, Savre employs a transparent, minimal-intervention approach in the cellar, resulting in wines that now boast an impressive track record of world-class quality and glowing acclaim from the critical press. The 2022 vintage continues this upward trajectory in spades, showing why Lingua Franca remains one of Oregon's most exciting producers. | ||
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| 2019 Rauzan-Segla (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described by Jeb Dunnuck as an estate “firing on all cylinders,” there's no doubt that Super Second Chateau Rauzan-Segla ranks at the top of the Margaux appellation, these high scoring Left Bank blends from outstanding recent vintages offering First Growth depth and cellar worthy complexity at a fraction of the price. Located a short walk from the village of Margaux, Chateau Rauzan-Segla has been owned by the Wertheimer family of the fashion house Chanel since 1984, the estate undergoing a “no expense spared” restoration and revitalization that has fueled its steady rise in quality over the past two decades. Crafted by former Krug and Cheval des Andes winemaker Nicolas Audebert, the Grand Vin was sourced from the estate’s 70 hectares of organically farmed vineyards throughout the appellation with some parcels close to First Growth Chateau Margaux and aged in mostly new French oak for 18 months. Living up to the Chateau’s rising star reputation as “an estate that can do no wrong” according to Jeb Dunnuck, these lush Chateau Rauzan-Segla blends boast refined, polished tannins that promise longevity, this offer a perfect opportunity for Bordeaux fans to stock the cellar with top scoring values rivalling its First Growth peers at a best on the market price. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Alary Cairanne la Jean de Verde (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Côtes du Rhône, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Savvy bargain hunters are by now well aware of the stellar quality for price to be found in the relatively new Cairanne appellation. Since its promotion to full cru status, the region has captured the attention of Southern Rhône insiders, and it’s Domaine Alary leading the way. Father and son Denis and Jean-Etienne Alary are renowned for their track record of consistent excellence, and the flagship Estevenas Rouge defines the domaine’s style and reputation in the market. The 94-96 point 2022 rendition “features stunning aromas ... Full-bodied, creamy and lush on the palate, it finishes long and silky” according to Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski, the Syrah-dominant blend benefitting from some of the oldest Syrah vines in the Southern Rhône. The 2022 La Brunote is a prime example of the Alarys’ wide-ranging repertoire and skill set. The 92-94WA, Mourvèdre-based blend excels in the warm vintage, especially at our market-best price. “Full-bodied and richly concentrated, it's almost creamy in texture, with a lingering finish. Yum,” declares Czerwinski. Finally, the 2022 Jean de Verde continues this cuvée’s track record as a benchmark Cairanne collectible. Garnering a whopping 95-97 points as a potential best-ever effort from Denis and Jean-Etienne, it's "amazingly complex on the nose ... [with] wonderful harmony. It's full-bodied and rich, concentrated and velvety, with a long, zesty finish." In short, you'll be hard pressed to find a better bang for your buck in the southern Rhone. Alary is back at B-21 in a big way, with 2022s that set the pace for the appellation and offer world-class value. | ||
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| 2020 M. Plouzeau Chateau de la Bonneliere Chinon 1929 Lieu-Dits Vindoux Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Chinon, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Marc Plouzeau is at the top of his game today and making some of the most stunning wines to be found anywhere in the vast universe that is the world of wine." - John Gilman,View From the Cellar The Loire Valley is so much more than Sancerre, and we're on a mission to bring you new discoveries that showcase just how much world-class wine there is to be found along this lengthy stretch of river. Apart from Sancerre, Chinon is probably the best-known Loire appellation, and certainly the best-known for red wines. After all, it's an ancestral home of the ancient Cabernet Franc varietal, which performs on its own here better than anywhere else in the world. Long-time Loire fans probably know names like Joguet and Raffault, but Marc Plouzeau is one you need to add to your list post haste.His vineyard holdings are easily among the finest in the appellation, and his meticulous craftsmanship in the cellar fully expresses their inimitable potential. A master of single-vineyard expressions, Plouzeau offers a thrilling range of styles from his varied terroirs, but the 1929 Lieu-Dit Vindoux (also known as the Vindoux L'Integrale) is his undisputed crown jewel. These near-centenarian vines on deep argilo-calcaire soils produce a famously age-worthy wine, which has reached new levels in the excellent 2020 vintage. With 95+ points from Gilman, "it will stand as one of the great wines made in Chinon in the last couple of decades." While the domaine is built on Cabernet Franc, Plouzeau also makes a pair of truly singular Chinon Blancs, the highlight being the Vive le Chenin. Made from a one-hectare parcel of Chenin Blanc, the 93-point 2022 "is going to be an outstanding wine." Fermented and aged all in tank with no malolactic, it's loaded with true varietal character yet remains approachable young, with "a superb core of fruit, lovely soil signature, zesty acids and excellent precision on the long and perfectly balanced finish." The best feature of Plouzeau's wines, however, is the pricing – simply jaw-dropping given the benchmark quality in the bottle, perhaps due to his still under-the-radar status compared to his contemporaries. Savvy Loire collectors will want to take full advantage while they can, especially if Plouzeau keeps turning out results like these. | ||
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| 2021 Ferrari-Carano Tresor (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sonoma's standard-bearer Ferrari-Carano needs little introduction. These quintessential California classics have been all-time best sellers at B-21 for years, and it's always nice to see a standard bearer continue to hit the mark. These 2021s and 2022s showcase winemaking duo Rebecka Deike and Natalie West at their best, all notching solid press from James Suckling and offering outstanding value and consistent excellence. The "Ripe yet elegantly balanced and refreshing" 2023 Chardonnay is a top-shelf value performer at 91 points & under $16, a perfect option for your next go-to house white. A step (or two) up at 94 points, the 2022 Tre Terre is "full bodied with lovely texture and tension" per Suckling, outpacing it's sub-$25 price. For the reds, the 2021 Siena hits on all cylinders for fans of this QPR best seller, while the 2021 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon catches 92 points from Suckling, who notes, "Medium-bodied with fine tannins and beautiful length. Bright and vivid. Plenty of cabernet character." If you're looking for surefire quality at an easy price, you almost have too many good options with these Sonoma classics. | ||
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| 2021 Aperture Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The [Aperture] wines offer hedonistic pleasure across the range, offering high-octane power balanced with superb elegance ...They are continuing to offer blockbuster wines, especially their 2021 releases." - Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com One of the more impressive boutique operations in Sonoma County today has nothing at all to do with Pinot Noir. Winemaker Jesse Katz of Aperture Cellars is emerging as a bona fide master of Bordeaux varietals in the appellation, and his track record is one of unbroken success, garnering acclaim from across the critical spectrum on an annual basis. The 2021s are arguably Katz's finest efforts yet, clearly evident in the double 96-point 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon. Blended from almost all of the estate's prized parcels in Alexander Valley and Healdsburg, it's a profoundly luxurious expression that manages to maintain superb balance and weightless precision thanks to the expert touch of the winemaking team. If you're looking for a California Cabernet with impeccable, cellar-worthy pedigree and a drinking window that will span the better part of two decades, look no further. | ||
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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 Described over recent vintages as “one of Bordeaux’s stars” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, these high scoring 98-100 pt. selections from Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion are among Pessac-Leognan’s most unique and age worthy blends from three top vintages, reflecting Les Carmes Haut-Brion’s “distinctive, Cabernet Franc-driven DNA” according to the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley and all incredibly priced well below its First Growth neighbors. Situated just a few rows of houses away from Chateau Haut-Brion, Les Carmes Haut Brion was once part of the First Growth with roots dating back to the 16th century, enjoying a stratospheric rise in quality led by the former winemaker of iconic Rhone producer M. Chapoutier Guillaume Pouthier along with renowned consultant Stephane Derenoncourt under the ownership of Patrice Pichet since 2010. Described as “a magical terroir” by Jeb Dunnuck, the Grand Vin is sourced from the top 7.6 hectares of the estate’s sustainably farmed 30 hectares of vines planted mostly to Cabernet Franc and Merlot with about a fifth Cabernet Sauvignon, the best terroir near the Chateau boasting Cab Franc vines dating back to World War II. Declared “a dead ringer for Haut-Brion” by Jeb Dunnuck, the magnificent 100 pt. 2018 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion is a blend of 37% Cabernet Franc, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot matured in 75% new French oak barrels along with 16% foudres and 9% in terracotta amphoras for 24 months, revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated earthy black fruit with crushed stone and seamless, supple tannins, described as a “wine of dazzling intensity and stature” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous and summed up as “a total knockout” built to deliver the goods over the next 30 plus years. A blend of 48% Cabernet Franc, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot aged for 24 months in 84% new French oak barrels with 7% in foudres and 9% in terracotta amphoras, the elegant 98 pt. 2019 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion is called “a gorgeous 2019” by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson layering fresh, luscious aromatic fruit with refined, integrated tannins and boasting “a drinkability that makes you want a glass now, but could happily be enjoyed decades from now” according to Decanter’s Georgina Hindle, ranking #18 on Decanter’s Top Wines of 2023. Described as a “heavenly wine” that “you probably couldn't have too much of in the cellar” by Jeb Dunnuck, the full-bodied 2020 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion is a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Merlot aged in 80% new French oak barrels along with 11% in foudres and 9% in terracotta amphoras for 24 months, yielding a thrilling and exquisitely balanced blend summed up by Vinous critic Neal Martin as “a serious Les Carmes Haut-Brion with a very long future ahead.” Summing up the magical, riveting qualities of Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion, Jeb Dunnuck offers unequivocal advice: “Believe the hype,” these top vintages of Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion promising the epic ageability of its First Growth neighbor and value priced for Bordeaux collectors to stock the cellar at a fraction of the price. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Alary Cairanne L'Estevenas (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Côtes du Rhône, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Savvy bargain hunters are by now well aware of the stellar quality for price to be found in the relatively new Cairanne appellation. Since its promotion to full cru status, the region has captured the attention of Southern Rhône insiders, and it’s Domaine Alary leading the way. Father and son Denis and Jean-Etienne Alary are renowned for their track record of consistent excellence, and the flagship Estevenas Rouge defines the domaine’s style and reputation in the market. The 94-96 point 2022 rendition “features stunning aromas ... Full-bodied, creamy and lush on the palate, it finishes long and silky” according to Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski, the Syrah-dominant blend benefitting from some of the oldest Syrah vines in the Southern Rhône. The 2022 La Brunote is a prime example of the Alarys’ wide-ranging repertoire and skill set. The 92-94WA, Mourvèdre-based blend excels in the warm vintage, especially at our market-best price. “Full-bodied and richly concentrated, it's almost creamy in texture, with a lingering finish. Yum,” declares Czerwinski. Finally, the 2022 Jean de Verde continues this cuvée’s track record as a benchmark Cairanne collectible. Garnering a whopping 95-97 points as a potential best-ever effort from Denis and Jean-Etienne, it's "amazingly complex on the nose ... [with] wonderful harmony. It's full-bodied and rich, concentrated and velvety, with a long, zesty finish." In short, you'll be hard pressed to find a better bang for your buck in the southern Rhone. Alary is back at B-21 in a big way, with 2022s that set the pace for the appellation and offer world-class value. | ||
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| 2022 First Drop Mother's Milk Shiraz (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from Barossa, South Australia, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The fruit-forward and charming 2022 Shiraz Mother's Milk offers up a wild ride..."-Vinous One of the pillars of the Australian wine scene are the remarkably well-made value stunners that can be found all over the country's myriad diverse wine regions. First Drop is one of those rare producers that hits homeruns at every point on the spectrum, from collectible caliber cult bottlings to overperforming gems that deliver big character for a small price, and the 2022 Mother's Milk Shiraz is exhibit A of the latter. Entirely sourced from choice vineyards in Barossa, namely high-elevation plots in Seppeltsfield, Kalmina, and Eden Valley, the 2022 Mother's Milk boasts excellent pedigree, which goes a long way to explaining how such a sharply priced wine can offer so much top-flight polish and character. It's classic Barossa with its core of dark, luxurious fruits and savory/spicy undertones, all built on a "seamless" foundation of plush Shiraz tannins characteristic of the best Barossa expressions. Considering all that, it's no wonder that the 2022 Mother's Milk collected a pair of 92-point scores from James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion and Wine Spectator, which also listed it among their Smart Buys/Best Values of the year. Priced for stacking by the case, it's an easy go-to for nearly any occasion. | ||
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| 2015 Chateau Suduiraut (375ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King’s grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d’Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as “a mood altering wine,” the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts “a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop” according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate’s Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut “unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish.” Boasting “a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit,” Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a “benchmark Suduiraut” and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut “simply magnificent” and “a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the “fabulous” 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut “such a gorgeous wine,” delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining “gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls it “a great wine with a long-term future.” Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: “It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing.” Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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| 2021 Gerard Bertrand Chateau l'Hospitalet Grand Vin La Clape Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from Languedoc-Roussillon, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Arguably the most dynamic producer in southwest France, Gerard Bertrand's stable of estates form the backbone of the winegrowing traditions in the regions around the foothills of the Pyrenees. As dramatic a winegrowing landscape as you'll find, this region has been home to the vine since the ancient Romans and Phoenicians fought over it. Chateau l'Hospitalet in the coastal La Clape AOC is a marvelous property, part resort, part vineyard, and part nature preserve, where you'll find some of the most definitive wines of the appellation. The 2021 l'Hospitaliet Rouge, a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre, is "a gorgeous wine that is dripping with finesse" per Wine Enthusiast and "a classic at this address" according to Wine Advocate. Likewise, the 2021 Blanc, made from Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, and Viognier, is "plush and inviting, with warm spice details and a honeyed note on the mineral-rich, racy finish" as described in Wine Spectator's 92-point review. If you're a fan of eminently classic Rhone-style wines with their own signature character, look no further. | ||
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| 2016 Rauzan-Segla (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described by Jeb Dunnuck as an estate “firing on all cylinders,” there's no doubt that Super Second Chateau Rauzan-Segla ranks at the top of the Margaux appellation, these high scoring Left Bank blends from outstanding recent vintages offering First Growth depth and cellar worthy complexity at a fraction of the price. Located a short walk from the village of Margaux, Chateau Rauzan-Segla has been owned by the Wertheimer family of the fashion house Chanel since 1984, the estate undergoing a “no expense spared” restoration and revitalization that has fueled its steady rise in quality over the past two decades. Crafted by former Krug and Cheval des Andes winemaker Nicolas Audebert, the Grand Vin was sourced from the estate’s 70 hectares of organically farmed vineyards throughout the appellation with some parcels close to First Growth Chateau Margaux and aged in mostly new French oak for 18 months. Living up to the Chateau’s rising star reputation as “an estate that can do no wrong” according to Jeb Dunnuck, these lush Chateau Rauzan-Segla blends boast refined, polished tannins that promise longevity, this offer a perfect opportunity for Bordeaux fans to stock the cellar with top scoring values rivalling its First Growth peers at a best on the market price. | ||
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| 2019 Sierra Cantabria Reserva Unica (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...quite complete and balanced in a classical year." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate A bastion of the old-school Rioja style, Sierra Cantabria boasts a track record of consistency that puts them firmly in the company of the region's other benchmark names. Known for turning out superb values, the estate also excels with some truly outstanding single-vineyard wines that Rioja collectors seek out on a regular basis. The bridge between the two categories is the Unica Reserva, sourced from a handful of these same prized vineyard sites that make up the top tier of the Sierra Cantabria range. The impeccable fruit pedigree, expert winemaking, and outstanding price all combine for a surefire winner of outstanding value that Rioja lovers can stock up on and enjoy time and time again over the next 15 years or more. | ||
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| 2004 Chateau Suduiraut Ex-Chateau 2023 (750ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King’s grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d’Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as “a mood altering wine,” the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts “a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop” according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate’s Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut “unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish.” Boasting “a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit,” Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a “benchmark Suduiraut” and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut “simply magnificent” and “a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the “fabulous” 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut “such a gorgeous wine,” delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining “gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls it “a great wine with a long-term future.” Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: “It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing.” Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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| 2022 Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Carneros, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sonoma's standard-bearer Ferrari-Carano needs little introduction. These quintessential California classics have been all-time best sellers at B-21 for years, and it's always nice to see a standard bearer continue to hit the mark. These 2021s and 2022s showcase winemaking duo Rebecka Deike and Natalie West at their best, all notching solid press from James Suckling and offering outstanding value and consistent excellence. The "Ripe yet elegantly balanced and refreshing" 2023 Chardonnay is a top-shelf value performer at 91 points & under $16, a perfect option for your next go-to house white. A step (or two) up at 94 points, the 2022 Tre Terre is "full bodied with lovely texture and tension" per Suckling, outpacing it's sub-$25 price. For the reds, the 2021 Siena hits on all cylinders for fans of this QPR best seller, while the 2021 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon catches 92 points from Suckling, who notes, "Medium-bodied with fine tannins and beautiful length. Bright and vivid. Plenty of cabernet character." If you're looking for surefire quality at an easy price, you almost have too many good options with these Sonoma classics. | ||
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| 2022 Stags' Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sometimes the best choice is one that’s so familiar that you might forget it’s even there, but these top scoring Stags’ Leap Winery selections deserve the full attention of Napa wine lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of seriously delicious white and red wines from prime Napa terroir available at bargain pricing whether choosing a few favorites or mixing a case. Among the oldest growers in the Stags Leap District, the 240-acre property Stags’ Leap Winery on the Silverado Trail has been continuously planted with vines since the late 1800’s, the once abandoned estate undergoing a lengthy renovation beginning in the 1970’s and becoming part of Treasury Wine Estates in 2011. More than a nostalgic reminder of the days when great Napa wines didn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, these high-scoring Stags’ Leap Winery selections deliver the goods, all well-crafted, delicious wines reasonably priced for stocking up to enjoy anytime a taste of Napa calls. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Alary Cairanne la Brunote (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Côtes du Rhône, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Savvy bargain hunters are by now well aware of the stellar quality for price to be found in the relatively new Cairanne appellation. Since its promotion to full cru status, the region has captured the attention of Southern Rhône insiders, and it’s Domaine Alary leading the way. Father and son Denis and Jean-Etienne Alary are renowned for their track record of consistent excellence, and the flagship Estevenas Rouge defines the domaine’s style and reputation in the market. The 94-96 point 2022 rendition “features stunning aromas ... Full-bodied, creamy and lush on the palate, it finishes long and silky” according to Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski, the Syrah-dominant blend benefitting from some of the oldest Syrah vines in the Southern Rhône. The 2022 La Brunote is a prime example of the Alarys’ wide-ranging repertoire and skill set. The 92-94WA, Mourvèdre-based blend excels in the warm vintage, especially at our market-best price. “Full-bodied and richly concentrated, it's almost creamy in texture, with a lingering finish. Yum,” declares Czerwinski. Finally, the 2022 Jean de Verde continues this cuvée’s track record as a benchmark Cairanne collectible. Garnering a whopping 95-97 points as a potential best-ever effort from Denis and Jean-Etienne, it's "amazingly complex on the nose ... [with] wonderful harmony. It's full-bodied and rich, concentrated and velvety, with a long, zesty finish." In short, you'll be hard pressed to find a better bang for your buck in the southern Rhone. Alary is back at B-21 in a big way, with 2022s that set the pace for the appellation and offer world-class value. | ||
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| 2016 Chateau Suduiraut (375ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King’s grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d’Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as “a mood altering wine,” the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts “a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop” according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate’s Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut “unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish.” Boasting “a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit,” Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a “benchmark Suduiraut” and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut “simply magnificent” and “a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the “fabulous” 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut “such a gorgeous wine,” delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining “gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast’s Roger Voss calls it “a great wine with a long-term future.” Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: “It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing.” Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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