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| 2020 Labegorce (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Since arriving in 2009, Marjolaine de Coninck has resurrected this estate, and the wines now play with the top in the appellation."- Jeb Dunnuck Bordeaux remains arguably the greatest hotbed of collectible value in the world of fine wine, and at the forefront of that trend the past decade has been Margaux's Chateau Labegorce. Since 2015, this dynamic estate has been outpacing its station in the quality and price heirarchies, delivering exceptional, cellar-worthy character and style at prices that allow Bordeaux collectors of all stripes to line their cellars. Today's mini-vertical showcases the past decade at this insider's favorite in all its glory, with stellar acclaimed renditions from five benchmark vintages. Consistent praise has followed the 2016 sinceen primeur, "afabulously textured Margaux" that shines in a modern classic vintage, while the 2018 "exudes elegance and class" according to Dunnuck. The 2019 and 2020 renditions round out the "trifecta" in fine form, each vintage expressing the full character of this lauded trio. Finally, the double 95-point 2022 just confirms that the estate is here to day among the elite of the appellation, a resounding triumph that still maintains the brilliant value this dynamic property has come to symbolize among Bordeaux's savviest collectors. Whether you're building a mini-vertical of your own or your just looking for a new surefire Left Bank winner that you can enjoy with abandon, this selection has it and then some. | ||
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| 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo (750ml) | ||
| Verdejo from Segovia, Castilla y Leon, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "A fresh, medium-bodied white ... Bright and well-integrated, with a lasting, lively finish."- Wine Spectator Crafted from some of Spain’s oldest vineyards in Castilla y Leon, the crisp and enticing, 92-point 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo offers richly aromatic fruit with subtle minerality and vibrant acidity on a silky, mouthwatering finish, a delicious Spanish white with layered complexity value priced for stocking the cooler to enjoy often over the next few years. Known for producing “rounder, more serious and minerally expressions of Verdejo” according to James Suckling, Ossian Vides y Vinos was established in the village of Nieva northwest of Madrid in 2005 to explore the winemaking potential of Segovia’s extremely old Verdejo vines, the region’s sandy soils helping to keep phylloxera bay while it ravaged other areas of Spain at the turn of the 20th century. Situated within the boundaries of the Rueda appellation, Ossian’s organically farmed vineyards span over 110 hectares, of which 50 hectares are planted with ungrafted, pre-phylloxera vines ranging up to 160 years of age on the Voltoya River terraces between 840 and 930 meters above sea level, enjoying warm sunny days and cooler nighttime temperatures that enhance concentration and preserve acidity. Sourced from various plots in 5 different villages of Segovia comprised of 60% pre-Phylloxera and 40% younger vines and fermented with indigenous yeasts, the refined 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo was aged for nine months on the lees in a mix of stainless steel tanks and French foudres, yielding a rich and layered Verdejo that’s “bright and well-integrated” according to Wine Spectator’s Alison Napjus “with a lasting, lively finish.” From a region known for producing “a bright, refreshing pour that delivers bang for the buck” according to Wine Enthusiast’s Mike DeSimone, the appealing 92-point 2020 Ossian Quintaluna Verdejo boasts the upfront appeal of fresh, vibrant Verdejo with the layered complexity of old vine fruit, a delicious, richly textured Verdejo delivering outstanding value | ||
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| 2018 Chateau La Vieille Cure (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Always a winner, I can't remember the last vintage of this cuvée that didn't put a smile on my face." - Jeb Dunnuck Declared “so reliable” by Jane Anson that it’s “a bellwether to the success of a vintage,” Château La Vieille Cure is considered the standard bearer for Fronsac, its exceptional consistency over the last decade driven by winemaker Jean-Luc Thunevin, the original garagiste pioneer and owner of Château Valandraud, who took the reins in 2013. The 20-hectare La Vieille Cure vineyard is situated in a single, contiguous plot facing Pomerol, planted mostly to Merlot vines averaging 40 years of age with the oldest at over 75 years. This duo of value stunners from 2018 & 2019 puts Anson's words into full perspective, as each rendition captures the quintessential character of the vintage while offering the unmistakable signature of this benchmark Fronsac terroir. Defined by the vintage's power and opulence, the seductive 2018 La Vieille Cure "is a total pleasure bomb" according to Antonio Galloni, "In a word: fabulous." Jeb Dunnuck likewise sums it up as "a smoking wine that readers should snatch up!" The slightly more refined and approachable 94-point 2019 (again, a hallmark of the vintage) is "just an impeccably made, satisfying, classic Right Bank beauty." These confirm that Bordeaux continues to be a hotbed of unbeatable values, offering wines of superb sophistication and cellar potential for prices that allow anyone to load the cellar and reap the rewards for years to come. | ||
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| 2021 Raymond Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Selection (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Reflecting its owner's commitment to producing authentic, terroir-driven wines, this dynamic duo from Raymond Vineyards are two of Napa Valley’s top values, the enticing 92 pt. 2022 Raymond Chardonnay Reserve Selection and elegant 93 pt. 2021 Raymond Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Selection both sourced from exceptional Napa fruit at an outstanding price for stocking up. Known for his larger-than-life personality and flamboyant velvet jacket attire, Burgundy-born Jean-Charles Boisset is a true believer that great wines are made in the vineyard, and his first priority after purchasing Raymond Vineyards in 2009 was to upgrade the existing 90-acre property and implement organic and biodynamic viticulture. Established in Napa Valley over 50 years ago by long-time Beringer winemaker Roy Raymond, Raymond Vineyards now spans over 300 acres in Rutherford and St. Helena, the vineyards and winemaking managed under the direction of 100 pt. consulting winemaker Phillipe Melka since 2009. In addition to gaining organic and biodynamic certification for the vineyards and building one of Napa's largest solar panel projects to generate electricity for the winery, Boisset hired former Far Niente winemaker Stephanie Putnam to work alongside Melka to refine the blends, consistently garnering 90-plus points throughout her tenure. Expertly crafted from outstanding Napa fruit, this duo of top scoring Raymond Reserve Selections boast a winning combination of quality and value, both ready to enjoy now and promising pleasurable drinking for years ahead at an easy to reach for price. | ||
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| 2019 Ormes de Pez (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of high scoring Bordeaux, all under $30! From some of the region’s most undervalued estates, these “three lollipop” selections hit the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of age worthy blends unbeatably priced for Bordeaux bargain hunters to stock the cellar and enjoy often.
Whether deciding on a few favorites or finding it hard to choose, these high scoring Bordeaux blends are bargain priced for mixing a case, a sweet deal for anyone seeking to pull the cork on a terrific Bordeaux more often. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Fontenil (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Fronsac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From the estate owned by renowned enologist and 100 pt. winemaker Michel Rolland, the lush and finessed 95 pt. 2020 Chateau Fontenil boasts dark, ripe polished fruit with elegant, integrated tannins on a long velvety finish, meticulously crafted of Merlot from an excellent vintage that “delivers the goods” according to Neal Martin of Vinous and a superb value. Located in the lesser known Fronsac appellation on the right bank of the Gironde, Chateau Fontenil was established by Michel Rolland and his wife Dany in the mid-1980s, their search for a family country home leading them to a grand but rundown house in Saillans adjacent to seven hectares of old vines. First purchasing the vineyard and eventually the Chateau, the Rollands spent over a decade on a top to bottom renovation of the estate, restoring the Chateau, modernizing the wine-making facilities and replanting vineyards. Situated on a south facing slope overlooking the river Isle and the town of Libourne, the vineyards span 11 hectares planted mostly to Merlot in clay and limestone soils, located at the highest elevation on the plateau of Fronsac with vines averaging 45 years of age. Manually harvesting and vinifying plot by plot, the 2020 Chateau Fontenil exemplifies Michel Rolland’s supple, opulent style, aged in 60% new French oak for 15-18 months to yield vibrant fruit and smooth, fine grained tannins described as “impeccably balanced” by Antonio Galloni and finishing with “a welcome kick of acidity” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson on a lengthy, elegant finish. While many of his client’s top scoring Bordeaux blends have sky high prices to match, Michel Rolland’s elegant 95 pt. 2020 Chateau Fontenil is a superb value, “sexy, seamless, straight-up impressive” according to Jeb Dunnuck that’s “well worth a case purchase,” ready to drink and worthy of aging at an unbeatable price that makes it easy for Bordeaux lovers to do both. | ||
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| 2021 Michele Satta Piastraia Bolgheri Superiore (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More “These wonderful wines have a savory and mineral accent, with an open window for enjoyment at a great price point.” Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck From the pioneering champion of Sangiovese in Tuscany’s Bolgheri region, the rich and refined 95 pt. 2021 Michele Satta Piastraia Bolgheri Superiore reveals fresh, spiced dark fruit and vibrant acidity on a long, satisfying finish, a knockout Super Tuscan blend among the best values on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2024 and now unbeatably priced to stock the cellar. Working as a consultant to some of Bolgheri’s earliest estates, Michele Satta became known as an expert in its coastal terroir, planting many of the region’s first vineyards including Ornellaia’s legendary Masseto and founding his winery in Castagneto Carducci two years before the Bolgheri DOC was established in 1982. Described by Jeb Dunnuck as producing accessible blends “with a unique elegance and sense of place from varietals not often championed on the Bolgheri coast,” Michele remained convinced of the area’s potential for producing Sangiovese despite its growing reputation for international grapes, now producing his portfolio from the family’s biodynamically farmed 24-hectare estate along with his son and second generation winemaker Giacomo Satta. Described by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner as embodying “the fierce spirit of independence that is encapsulated in all of Satta’s wines,” the 2021 Michele Satta Piastraia Bolgheri Superiore is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Sangiovese, each varietal fermented separately with natural yeasts in cone-truncated oak barrels and aged in 20% new French oak for 18 months and another 24 months in bottle, yielding a fresh, vibrant blend with well-integrated acidity and harmonious tannins built to evolve over the next decade and showing “the potential of Sangiovese in this part of the Tuscan coast” according to critic Kerin O’Keefe. Described by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner as reflecting Satta’s “remarkably smooth and elegant” house style, the graceful and silky 95 pt. 2021 Michele Satta Piastraia Bolgheri Superiore is built on a substantial backbone of depth and complexity that “makes you sit up and take notice,” according to Decanter’s James Button, a deliciously enticing and age worthy Super Tuscan blend made all the more appealing by a terrific value price. | ||
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| 2022 Turley Wine Cellars Zinfandel Old Vines (750ml) | ||
| Zinfandel from California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More After co-founding Frog’s Leap Winery in Napa in the 1980s, Larry Turley’s passion to produce an artisan, old-vine Zin led him to sell his partnership share in Frog’s Leap and establish Turley Wine Cellars in 1993 with 5 acres of the original frog farm and winery, focusing on the recovery of California’s historic vineyards and expanding to over 75 acres of organically farmed vineyards. Crafted as a harmonious blend of California old-vine Zin from diverse terroirs, the 2022 Zinfandel Old Vines was sourced from over 20 small parcels planted with vines ranging from 50 to 130 years of age from diverse locations including Napa and Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Contra Costa, Amador, and Paso Robles. A field blend of mostly Zinfandel fermented with native yeasts, veteran winemaker Tegan Passalacqua aged the 2022 Turley Wine Cellars Zinfandel Old Vines in a mix of 80% French oak and 20% American oak barrels consisting of 10% new and 90% used for 12 months, yielding a full-bodied, richly aromatic Zin with “generous berry fruit and a long, spicy finish” according to Wine Advocate’s Erin Brooks, "offers generous layers of fruit, spice and floral notes" that makes it “easy to drink" and an unequivocal recommendation for California Zin fans seeking outstanding value at an unbeatable price. | ||
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| 2020 Cheval des Andes (750ml) | ||
| Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More “The wine has the ultra sleek and polished texture and the elegance and the balance that is the signature here.” - Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate When the winemaking expertise of the legendary First Growth Cheval Blanc is applied to grapes grown in top Argentinian terroir, collectors of exceptional Bordeaux-style blends reap the rewards. Argentine icon Cheval des Andes, a blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, is counted among “the top wines from South America'' according to Jane Anson, delivering superb value for collectors vintage after vintage. Surrounded by stunning views of the rugged Andes Mountains, Cheval des Andes reflects the exacting standards of pioneering estate manager Pierre Lurton. Inspired by the discovery of the Las Compuertas parcel of ungrafted Malbec planted in Mendoza in 1929, Bordeaux-born Lurton collaborated with Argentina’s Terrazas de los Andes to produce a blend of the old-vine Malbec with Cabernet Sauvignon, reconnecting Château Cheval Blanc with the history of St-Emilion, where the once abundant Malbec was devastated by phylloxera. Sourced from two organically farmed estate vineyards spanning 50 hectares, Las Compuertas lies in Lujan de Cuyo on gentle slopes at an altitude of 1,070 meters above sea level, its cool microclimate and deep silty-loam soils are optimal for growing and ripening Cabernet Sauvignon, while Altamira in the Valle de Uco was planted with Malbec in 1945 at an altitude of 1,100 meters. Each vineyard divided into subplots and the grapes harvested and transported separately in refrigerated trucks to preserve freshness in the warmer 2020 vintage. Fermented parcel by parcel by winemaker Gerald Gabillet, formerly of Château Angélus, the richly concentrated 2020 Cheval des Andes is a blend of equal amounts of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Petit Verdot, aged in a mix of 50% new French oak barrels and larger foudres for up to 18 months and revealing “rich, polished tannins that deliver a juicy, balanced mouthfeel” according to Joaquin Hidalgo of Vinous with a decade or more of evolution ahead. Reflecting its reputation as the “Grand Cru of Argentina” and summed up as “great stuff” by Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson, the pedigreed 98-point 2020 Cheval des Andes is a pure and powerful expression of high-altitude Malbec with the structure and intensity of Cabernet Sauvignon, equally appealing for fans of Argentinian Malbec and collectors of “the very best and most sought-after New World reds” according to critic Tim Atkin and promising to deliver years of pleasurable drinking at an unbeatable collectible price. | ||
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| 2020 Felsina Fontalloro (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "[Fèlsina's] 2021s are fabulous wines that capture all the best the vintage has to offer. The wines are incredibly distinctive, archetypes of Castelnuovo Berardenga, the sort of wines that will delight readers who enjoy Chianti Classico in all its guises." - Antonio Galloni,Vinous The iconic Fèlsina estate has been setting the bar for decades in the Castelnuovo Berardenga sub-zone of the Chianti Classico DOCG, and in a reference-point vintage like 2021, they have hit bullseye after bullseye. The 2021 Berardenga Riserva is quite possibly the star of the show, garnering an eye-opening press across the board led by a pair of 95 point reviews fromWine Spectatorand Italian wine authority Kerin O'Keefe, who found it "elegant and showing wonderful intensity." James Suckling calls the 2021 "a well-composed, balanced and refined riserva," while Antonio Galloni declares, "A wine of nuance and layers, the 2021 has so much to offer." While the Riserva still needs time to show its full hand, the 2021 Chianti Classico Berardenga is perfectly poised to be your next go-to red, with pedigree and class that transcend its everyday, sub-$20 price point. A 92-point value star according to Galloni, "It's a super classic example of the house style and a wine readers should consider buying by the case." Need we say more? Finally, with all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points fromWine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according toWine Spectator. This set from Fèlsina is the classic Tuscan trifecta – a surefire value winner, a sharp collectible buy of world-class pedigree, and a stunning QPR overachiever that can be enjoyed today or hold its own in the cellar for years to come. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Langoa Barton (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of under the radar gems, this treasure trove of irresistible “five lollipop” selections are all bargain priced under $50 for B-21 Bordeaux lovers to stash away to enjoy over the next few decades, a terrific opportunity to stock the cellar with high scoring, value priced Bordeaux whether choosing a few favorites or mixing a case.
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| 2019 Abadia Retuerta Seleccion Especial Sardon de Duero (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero, Castilla y Leon, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Traveling along the N-122, following the River Duero in the direction of Vega Sicilia, we reached the small town of Sardon del Duero. Just outside this town, about a mile down the road in Retuerta, the Count of Castile commissioned the construction of a series of Abbeys in the 12th century. One of the most important was the monastery of Santa María de Retuerta (Abadia de Retuerta), built in a beautiful enclave on the banks of the Duero River – of all the monasteries built during this period, Abadia de Retuerta is one of only two in existence today. Stunning, awe-inspiring, eye-popping in every sense – just plain nuts... this place is beautiful. Restoration began on the buildings as well as the Abbey in the 1990s. The current owners are heirs to this place and they did it right. A majestic spa, a Michelin starred restaurant, a Relais & Chateaux luxury hotel, guided tours via helicopter.... Quoting Maître de Maison, Andrés Araya, "Every architectural detail has been immaculately preserved. The monks’ cells are now guestrooms, the chapter house is the lounge bar, and the refectory is now a sumptuous restaurant." Friends, it's THAT amazing! As for the vineyards, they are planted to the north facing slopes, on the south side of the River Duero. As with their famous neighbors – Vega Sicilia – these hillside vineyards on the south side of the river gradually ascend, topping out at 2,500 feet from their base near the River of 2,100 feet elevation. Working with world-renowned winemaker Pascal Delbeck (Chateau Petrus), the team here isolated the best parcels (pagos – 54 in all), planting 510 acres to a combination of soils ranging from clay and gravel near the river to limestone mixed with boulders and stones on the upper reaches of the hillside. Mostly Tempranillo, along with varying percentages of Cabernet and Syrah gives us Retuerta's fascinating, classically unique flavor profile. Planted in the 1990s (Petrus' winemaker as their guide), the only major difference between the vineyards here and Vega Sicilia is vine age... the bang for the buck is unbelievable! | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Poujeaux (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Moulis-en-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of high scoring Bordeaux, all under $30! From some of the region’s most undervalued estates, these “three lollipop” selections hit the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of age worthy blends unbeatably priced for Bordeaux bargain hunters to stock the cellar and enjoy often.
Whether deciding on a few favorites or finding it hard to choose, these high scoring Bordeaux blends are bargain priced for mixing a case, a sweet deal for anyone seeking to pull the cork on a terrific Bordeaux more often. | ||
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| 2021 Fontanabianca Barbaresco (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Named for the historic well or “white fountain” that lies below the cantina on the northern side of the village of Neive, Fontanabianca is managed by second generation Aldo Polo and his son Matteo, honing his skills under his father along with legendary consultant Beppe Ca’ Viola before taking the reins as winemaker in 2016. Situated in an area known for producing “structured, age worthy wines that boast elegance” according to the Wine Enthusiast, the 100% Nebbiolo grapes for the 2021 Barbaresco are sourced from three estate vineyards in the commune of Neive, the vines planted in calcareous clay soils on steep slopes rising to 300 meters above sea level and enjoying full sun exposure that promotes even ripening. Sourced from an outstanding Barbaresco vintage producing “volume, lushness and balance” according to Decanter’s Aldo Fiordelli, Matteo aged the 2021 Fontanabianca Barbaresco in used barrels for 15 months followed by 8 more months in bottle, crafted in an enticing style Antonio Galloni calls “hedonistic and decadent Barbaresco at its very best” and yielding a rich and full-bodied Nebbiolo with earthy minerality and fine, polished tannins that promise longevity over the coming 10-15 years. | ||
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| 2023 Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More While Tignanello gets all (or almost all) the attention in the Marchesi Antinori stable, the Guado al Tasso wines have started to gain some serious traction of their own among Italian fans, and they now stand apart from their more famous sibling in all the right ways. This latest set of new releases show the unmatched pedigree of Antinori, from the sterling quality of the fruit, to the clear terroir signatures, to the precise and meticulous winemaking. The entry-level Il Bruciato has fast made a name for itself as one of the great Super Tuscan value performers in the market, and the 93-point 2023 delivers on this reputation. "Full-bodied ... generous and rounded, with supple ripe tannins providing a fleshy sensation through the finish," notes Audrey Frick, writing for Jeb Dunnuck. The blend of all five Bordeaux varietals makes for an easy to enjoy, go-to option with an added dimension of Antinori class. Speaking of which, that same class is on full display in the towering 2021 Guado al Tasso. Racking up a bevy of outstanding press headlined by Galloni's massive 98-point review, the 2021 is a wine of "gorgeous sophistication" as described by James Suckling, marked by "crazy aromatic presence and feel" thanks to an elevated percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend, which plays perfectly against the stunning quality of the Cabernet Sauvignon in this vintage. "The pedigree and purity of this red are evident immediately," notes Wine Spectator, as we'd fully expect from the hallowed cellars of Marchesi Antinori. | ||
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| 2021 Fonterutoli Chianti Classico (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declaring it “the single greatest young vintage I have ever tasted in Chianti Classico,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls 2021 “a vintage to buy deep.” This treasure trove of top-scoring, entry-level Chianti Classico wines a terrific opportunity for Sangiovese fans to stock the cellar at a bargain price. Starting off with a mild, wet winter, the optimal 2021 growing season in Chianti Classico had sufficient rainfall reserves to allow the vines to thrive in the hot and dry summer, and with well-timed periods of rain in late August, the picture-perfect vintage yielded lower quantities of high quality, concentrated grapes expressing pure Sangiovese character with vibrant acidity.
This value packed offer is a terrific opportunity to enjoy some seriously delicious Sangiovese wines from a stellar vintage at an unbeatable price. | ||
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| 2016 Malescot St. Exupery (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Among Bordeaux enthusiasts and insiders, Malescot St-Exupery is one of the most consistent performers in Margaux, routinely raking in scores and accolades that compete with those of its much more expensive neighbors.From two of Bordeaux's most heralded 21st-century vintages, the pair on offer today exemplify the enchanting elegance and class of this famed Left Bank appellation. The 2016 has been a monumental achievement sinceen primeur,showcasing this generational vintage in all its glory. Neal Martin declared at the time, "it is one of the best Malescot-St-Exupery that I have tasted and it is wonderful," with subsequent reviews over the years confirming it as "a magnificent Margaux." With similar glowing accolades from the likes of James Suckling, Jeb Dunnuck, Antonio Galloni, and Lisa Perrotti-Brown, the 2016 remains one of the great collectible Left Bank buys in the market, even nearly a decade after its original release. Likewise, the 2019 is "quite possibly the most elegant wine I have tasted here ... a magical wine endowed with tremendous character," according to Galloni. Dovetailed between the two powerhouse vintages of 2018 and 2020, the 2019 offers impeccable balance and poise that are definitive features of this excellent but under-the-radar vintage. James Suckling's 96-point review describes it as "full-bodied and layered with beautifully polished tannins that last for minutes," underscoring the wine's inherent longevity and potential for thrilling development in the cellar. If you're a fan of the estate, this is the perfect opportunity to back-fill your vertical or reload if you couldn't resist diving in already, and if you're looking to start a collection of Bordeaux's best, you'll be hard-pressed to find a sharper buy than these pristine expressions from a true surefire performer. | ||
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| 2022 Thibaud Boudignon Anjou Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Chenin Blanc from Anjou, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "[Boudignon's] attention to detail in the winemaking process, precise viticulture, dedication and passion for the terroirs mark him as one of France’s foremost vignerons and winemakers today." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate Few winemakers have achieved such rapid ascent to cult status in the past two decades as Thibaud Boudignon. Once the long-time winemaker at Domaine de la Soucherie set out on his own, the critical and collectible aficionados took quick notice of his utterly uncompromising style and craftsmanship, and demand has been on an upward trajectory ever since. It's rare to find Boudignon's wines in any meaningful quantity, so tight are the allocations relative to their fanbase, so when we were offered this trio at jaw-dropping pricing, we jumped at it without a second thought. Leading off, the 93-point 2022 Anjou Blanc is the perfect introduction to this remarkable domaine. "Medium-bodied, perfectly balanced with a seamless, layered texture," and displaying flawless varietal purity, it should be on the shortlist of anyone who's a fan of cult-caliber class for a bargain. Venturing into the single-vineyard wines, we truly see Boudignon's elite skills at work. The 94-point 2022 Clos de Fremine and 97-point 2021 Clos de la Hutte demonstrate clearly why Yohan Castaing declares, "[Boudignon] offers wines of purity, tension and finesse with virtually no rivals in Savennières." Showstopping terroir clarity and the potential for decades of cellar evolution put this duo firmly in the company of France's savviest cellar-worthy white wine buys, but as you might guess, our quantities are very limited, so collectors would be wise to strike quickly at this opportunity, especially at our must-see, market-best prices across the board. | ||
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| 2020 Giodo Alberelli di Giodo Nerello Mascalese (750ml) | ||
| Nerello Mascalese from Sicily, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Crafted by Italy’s legendary 100 pt. winemaker Carlo Ferrini from Sicily’s volcanic slopes, these top scoring Giodo Alberelli di Giodo selections offer a range of meticulously crafted red and white wines from “one of the world's most interesting, high-quality, yet value-driven categories” according to Eric Guido of Vinous, transparently expressing their unique Mount Etna terroir and value priced to enjoy now and over the next decade. Inspired by a handful of perfectly situated vineyard sites on the slopes of Mount Etna, famed consulting enologist Carlo Ferrini established Giodo Alberelli after more than a decade of consulting with some of Sicily’s most renowned estates, naming it for the traditional low-bush vines in the region resembling little trees known as “alberelli” and releasing his first vintage to unanimous critical acclaim in 2016. Assembling a patchwork of parcels on Etna’s north-facing black lava terraces in the Sicilia DOC, Ferrini sourced the Giodo Alberelli wines from a range of small plots situated from 800 to 950 meters above sea level planted with low yielding, pre-phylloxera Nerello Mascalese vines averaging 80-100 years along with a tiny parcel of the indigenous white Carricante averaging 50 years of age. Boasting lush aromatics evocative of citrus and wild herbs, the zesty 95 pt. 2022 Giodo Alberelli di Giodo Sicilia Carricante reaffirms “that some of the most interesting wines from Etna today are the whites” according to the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, balancing crisp energetic fruit hinting of flinty crushed stone with saline acidity on a mouthwatering finish. Conveying its varied soils and elevations much like Pinot Noir grown in the Cote de Beaune, the elegant 96 pt. 2020 Giodo Alberelli di Giodo Nerello Mascalese reveals pure red earthy fruit with refined minerality and subtle integrated tannins on “a long, vibrant, fresh finish” according to Decanter’s James Button who sums it up simply as “beautiful,” while Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson declares the powerful and fresh 96 pt. 2021 Giodo Alberelli di Giodo Nerello Mascalese “oh so juicy and full of minerality,” both age worthy reds layered with old vine character and focused tannins promising to evolve over the next decade and beyond. From the region described as “Italy’s most dynamic wine scene” by the Wine Advocate’s Monica Larner, these top scoring Giodo Alberelli di Giodo selections are pure and refined expressions of Mount Etna’s volcanic terroir crafted by a master of Italian wine, value priced for Etna fans to stock the cellar and a stellar mixed case for wine lovers seeking to explore the region's best. | ||
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| 2018 Chateau Lafite Rothschild (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, whether it’s the “complexity, finesse and longevity” of Chateau Lafite Rothschild according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson or the signature “explosive depth” and “breathtaking purity of flavor” of Chateau Haut-Brion according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, another terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. Spanning 112 hectares as the largest holding among the First Growths, the vineyards of Chateau Lafite Rothschild are located on rolling slopes of gravel up to ten meters deep in Pauillac, planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon with less than half of the total production making the final cut and aged for 18-20 months in new French oak barrels made at the estate’s onsite cooperage.Exhibiting Lafite’s “undeniable class and charm” according to Jeb Dunnuck, these top scoring selections range from the refined 100 pt. 2015 Chateau Lafite Rothschild that's just entering its realm of approachability, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as “a truly classic Lafite” that’s “understated and lyrical” to the magnificent triple 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Lafite Rothschild promising to "hit its 100th birthday in fine form” according to Jeb Dunnuck, every vintage revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated dark fruit with textbook graphite notes and layered silky tannins promising decades of longevity. Set among the contemporary suburbs of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau Haut-Brion’s vineyards for the red Grand Vin span 50 hectares in Pessac-Leognan, planted almost evenly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small parcels of Cab Franc and Petit Verdot in a complex terroir ranging from limestone to sand to 18-meter-deep gravels interspersed with deep clay, the Grand Vin aged in mostly new French oak barrels for 22 months. With every vintage boasting its legendary ability to age, these thrilling selections range from the plush 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Haut-Brion offering the estate’s signature ripe, opulent fruit elegantly balancing massive tannins to the 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Haut-Brion declared "a legend in the making” by Jeb Dunnuck and “ready to shine as the centerpiece of your collection for the next 40+ years” according to Inside Bordeaux’s Jane Anson. A treasure trove of exceptional First Growths that will make it hard to choose, these top scoring blends from Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion range fromsome with over a decade of cellaring to more recent vintages requiring patient cellaring, all promising a thrilling evolution for decades to come and delivered in perfect provenance at best on the market pricing. | ||
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| NV Xavier Vignon Arcane Cairanne Arcane La Temperance Organic (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Cairanne, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Regular readers of these pages are no stranger to the stunning wines being produced by Xavier Vignon, who has established a flawless reputation working with such luminaries as Marcoux, Grand Veneur, Raymond Usseglio, and others. Through these relationships, he has gained access to incredibly pristine parcels of very old-vine plantings across the valley, where he works with centenarian vines of Grenache and Syrah as well as 75- to 85-year-old plots of multiple other varieties. As always, we've sourced this latest set directly from Vignon's cellars, so fans of the estate can stock up on any or all of these critically acclaimed favorites for under $25 each. Led by a pair of "sensational" 2015s that each notched 94 points fromWine Advocate,these carry on Vignon's track record as one of the great iconoclastic talents in the Rhone today. The NV Arcane bottlings are no less impressive or singular. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Saint-Pierre (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "I continue to absolutely love what this estate puts in the bottle, and it remains an incredible value given its quality." - Jeb Dunnuck The above quote neatly sums up the recent track record of St-Julien's Château Saint-Pierre. A perennial example of the combination of incredible collectible pedigree and accessible price for which Bordeaux is world-renowned, Saint-Pierre is a hidden gem that allows collectors of all stripes to load their cellars with long-haul contenders that won't break the bank. This quartet of in-stock modern classics shows why the estate has racked up one stellar review after another from across the critical space, turning out some of the sharpest cellar-worthy buys on the Left Bank over the past decade. The "brilliant" 2016 starts things off with 96+ points from Dunnuck, followed the by the 95-point 2018, "an outstanding St-Julien that should age well over the next 20-30 years." Rounding out "The Trio" as vintages 2018-2020 are now known, we have the 96-point 2019, "a Saint-Julien of real substance and presence" per Antonio Galloni of Vinous, as well as the equally prodigious, 96-point 2020 that James Suckling calls "Full-bodied, opulent and broad-shouldered. Structured and refined." Diving into the full scope of Saint-Pierre's recent critical accolades and accomplishments, it's easy to see that this property belongs on every Bordeaux enthusiast's radar, as they're punching with some top-tier company at prices that represent genuine value in today's collectible space. | ||
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| 2023 Clos Henri Estate Sauvignon Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Sauvignon Blanc from Wairau Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Very fresh and clean with a mountain stream-like transparency. It’s light-bodied but has a density and tension as well as subtle and vivid flavors..." - James Suckling Like many of the top properties in Chlie and Argentina that have been established by Bordeaux royalty, New Zealand's Clos Henri has its roots with a legendary French winemaking family. With ten generations of experience making some of Sancerre's finest wines, Domaine Henri Bourgeois knows a thing or two about Sauvignon Blanc, and it makes perfect sense that they'd set up shop in New World's most dynamic Sauv Blanc region. The 2023 vintage has already brought us one smash-hit from this pedigreed estate, and now we're back with another. With not one, not two, but three 93-point scores behind it, the 2023 Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is a hallmark representation of the region's classic terroir as well as a testament to the unmatched depth of expertise that the Bourgois family brings to the world of Sauvignon Blanc. "Powerfully concentrated, energetic and alive" according toWine Advocate,the 2023 delivers superb value and world-class quality that outpace most contenders in the category. | ||
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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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| 2020 Ramirez de la Piscina Crianza (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Rich, fruity and expressive ... Weighty yet well-balanced with texture." - Decanter As dominant as Rioja is in the Spanish collectible space, its penchant for delivering outstanding everyday values is also unmatched. The latest entry proving the point is Ramirez de la Piscina's charming 2020 Crianza, a rock-solid performer for an easy case-buy price. Two of the characteristics that make Crianza Rioja such a powerhouse category in the everyday price is tier are the reliably enjoyable, approachable fruit profile and the bright, refreshing balance, both of which this 2020 displays in spades. Whether you're a fan of Rioja or just looking for a new candidate to add to your everyday/crowd-pleaser rotations, you can rest assured you've found it in this artfully crafted rendition. | ||
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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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| 2021 Dievole Chianti Classico (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Declaring it “the single greatest young vintage I have ever tasted in Chianti Classico,” Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls 2021 “a vintage to buy deep.” This treasure trove of top-scoring, entry-level Chianti Classico wines a terrific opportunity for Sangiovese fans to stock the cellar at a bargain price. Starting off with a mild, wet winter, the optimal 2021 growing season in Chianti Classico had sufficient rainfall reserves to allow the vines to thrive in the hot and dry summer, and with well-timed periods of rain in late August, the picture-perfect vintage yielded lower quantities of high quality, concentrated grapes expressing pure Sangiovese character with vibrant acidity.
This value packed offer is a terrific opportunity to enjoy some seriously delicious Sangiovese wines from a stellar vintage at an unbeatable price. | ||
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| 2021 Bouchard Pere & Fils Beaune 1er Cru Du Château (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Beaune, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More “Another terrific vintage chez Bouchard...” - William Kelley, Wine Advocate From “the most underrated commune in the Côte D’Or” according to Neal Martin of Vinous, the refined 91-point 2019 Bouchard Pere & Fils Beaune 1er Cru du Chateau is a can’t-miss for Burgundy collectors seeking outstanding value, revealing fragrant ripe red fruit hinting of earthy spice with smooth tannins on a long, velvety finish, conveyed in perfect provenance to enjoy over the next decade and affordably priced for stocking the cellar. Produced at Bouchard since 1907, the 2019 Beaune 1er Cru du Chateau was sourced from 26 hectares of organically farmed estate vineyards across 17 parcels in the Beaune premier cru planted in a range of pebble and marl limestone soils that reflect the region’s varied terroir, each of the individual parcels ranging from Savigny-lès-Beaune to its border with Pommard fermented separately. Crafted by Bouchard's renowned long-time cellar master Frederic Weber, the beautifully balanced 2019 Beaune 1er Cru Du Chateau was aged for 14 months in around 30% new French oak, yielding a delicious and “remarkably accessible bottling” according to Wine Advocate’s William Kelley with elegant, harmonious tannins promising another decade of enjoyment. | ||
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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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| 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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