| 2021 Beaulieu Vineyard Reserve Tapestry (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "It's medium to full-bodied, with a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Bravo to the team at Beaulieu for delivering this level of quality..." - Jeb Dunnuck Legendary Napa pedigree and a benchmark vintage come together to form a top-tier overachiever in the 2021 BV Tapestry Reserve. Often known as "Baby Latour", it's a lovely precursor to the estate's iconic flagship wine, at a fraction of the price. Not only that, but the 2021 also boasts some impressive accolades, led by a 96-point score from James Suckling, who declares it "one of the best I have had." The vintage's outstanding growing conditions resulted in a wine with "excellent length and serious tension" between plush fruit and precisely executed structure. As Antonio Galloni remarks, "Soft, silky contours wrap it all together, adding to a sense of immediacy that is impossible to miss." The winemaking team at BV is firing on all cylinders in the past few vintages, and any fan of super-classic Napa Cabernet should take a good look at this surefire, sub-$40 winner. | ||
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| 2018 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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| 2022 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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| 2019 Pedesclaux (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank. Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson. Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! | ||
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| 2023 Kelley Fox Chardonnay Durant Vineyard Lark Block (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Dundee Hills, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "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." - Eric Guido, Vinous Long-time B-21 Pinot Noir fans are now well-familiar with the spectacular offerings from this boutique darling of the Willamette Valley scene. With a critical track record to rival pretty much anyone else in the appellation, Kelley Fox is a bona fide star these days, and we're thrilled to have such an established relationship with her and her wines. This outstanding set of releases showcases exactly why Eric Guido calls Kelley's wines "one of the most exciting portfolios of wines made in the United States." Her elegant vineyard-expressive Pinot Noirs and energetic Chardonnays are sourced from many of the most iconic vineyard in the Valley. The entire line-up is full of must-try masterpieces, from the 94-point "entry-level" Mirabai to the single-vineyard stunners like the 98-point 2023 Shafer Vineyard and the pair of 2022 standouts from Maresh Vineyard, one of the oldest sites in Oregon. Of these two, it's particularly worth noting that Kelley won't be making wine from Maresh going forward, so get your hands on them now. The whites are equally compelling, and not just the Chards (although these do present some of the sharpest buys in the category, all at under $40). Her Grüner and Pinot Blanc are a testament to her unwavering belief in these varietals, and the critics seem to agree. Any way you look at it, these are among the most consistently excellent wines out there, not only in Oregon but in the entire country. If you haven't jumped on board the Kelley Fox wagon, you have no idea what you're missing. | ||
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| 2022 Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from McLaren Vale, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Juicy and seamless, this is impressive for its generosity and plush texture..." - MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and none of their wines is more widely loved and admired for that style than the iconic Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz. A blend of four top-notch McLaren Vale vineyards, including Mollydooker's own estate, plus a touch of Langhorne Creek fruit, the 2022 was barrel-fermented and aged entirely in American oak, half new, giving it the customary spicy complexity that accents the luxurious fruit for which Mollydooker is so famous. At our razor-sharp pricing, all you need to do is load up and enjoy! | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Cantemerle (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank. Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson. Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! | ||
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| 2019 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 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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| 2021 Wohlmuth Ried Dr. Wunsch 1STK Riesling (750ml) | ||
| Riesling from Südsteiermark, Steiermark, Austria | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is a reliably excellent producer with some of the finest Styrian wines." - Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate Southern Austria's Styria region, also known as Südsteiermark, has always been an insider's secret among Austrian wine lovers. These are some of the most dramatic vineyards in the country, and their ancient soils are highly suited to a wide range of varietals, but it's the notable trio of Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc that really define the highest quality tiers here. In fact, Sauvignon Blanc is arguably the region's calling card, and Weingut Wohlmuth is an under-the-radar star in the region, thanks to theirs, which are praised for their combination of "radiant fruit, power and intensity" by Wine Advocate's Stephan Reinhardt. Their village vineyards around Kitzeck-Sausal are highly prized for the 400 million-year-old phyllitic slate soils, and the 94-point 2022 Kitzeck-Sausal Sauvignon Blanc is a classic expression of the estate's style and the varietal's character in this part of the world. Better yet, no Sauv Blanc fan should miss the jaw-dropping, 98-point 2022 Ried Edelschuh Sauvignon Blanc. "So deep yet so delicate" and playing on par with the world's very finest expressions, it's a collectible-caliber wine from an unequivocal grand cru site. Of course, this being Austria, Riesling is a foundational part of Styria's DNA, and Wohlmuth's 2021s are singularly expressive in that regard. The Dr. Wunsch vineyard has hundreds of years of history, but was only recently reclaimed and laboriously recultivated by the estate, bringing it back to its revered potential of generations past. The 2021 is a WA94, sub-$35 standout that's "dense, juicy and salty, showing crystalline acidity as well as enormous power and length with corresponding tannin structure, yet also elegance and finesse." Finally, the same Ried Edelschuh that produces the stunning Sauv Blanc mentioned above also produces a grand-cru caliber Riesling with "tension, grip and energy but also balance" to the tune of 95 points from Reinhardt. Austria has always been a source of some the best quality for the price in the Old World, and offering like these from Wohlmuth only reinforce the idea that any serious wine lover who prizes authentic terroir and unbeatable class should be digging deep into the country's incredible trove of new discoveries. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine de la Bongran Vire-Clesse Cuvee Emilian Gillet (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Maconnais, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...a Mâconnais reference point that produces some of the region's most idiosyncratic wines." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate Our new direct-import relationship with Gautier Thevenet's Domaine de la Bongran is one of the most exciting results of our November trip to Burgundy last year. As one of the most meticulous and thoughtful growers and winemakers in Viré-Clessé, his wines occupy two realms simultaneously - on the one hand, they're paragons of classic, age-worthy white Burgundy, while on the other, they're stylistically singular in ways that none of his contemporaries can seem to match. The elusive Cuvée E.J. Thevenet is "one of Burgundy's greatest wines [and] what's more, its longevity is legendary," according to Kelley. The 2020 more than lives up to this lofty reputation. Based on that endorsement alone, you'd assume a triple-digit price is the norm, but for less than $40, you can stock up on a bona fide cellar contender that will outlive many Côte-de-Beaune benchmarks at many times its price. "Rich and bright ... Super in its style," the 2020 E.J. Thevenet is one of the most distinctive and intriguing white Burgs we've seen in a while. Taking that same character to another level, the 2017 Cuvée Levroutée is easily the most unique expression we encountered on this trip. It's safe to say there's nothing else like it in Burgundy. Made only in certain vintages that provide the perfect conditions for botrytis formation (the last being 2006), Levroutée is simply a one-of-a-kind wine, with 95 points from Kelley and 94 points from Neal Martin and Jasper Morris, who declares, "This really is gorgeous as it combines the pretty side of botrytis aromatics with a classic chardonnay heart." The 2017 Levroutée is a collectible treasure par excellence, only hinting at its full potential and set to cruise for a long, long time in the cellar. Finally, not part of the original Bongran domaine but one that Thevenet's father purchased several decades ago, the vineyards for the Cuvée Emilian Gillet are classic Viré-Clessé limestone terroir, which results in a wine markedly distinct from its stablemates. While the warm 2022 vintage provides it with just the right level of fruit ripeness, the terroir signature is all verve and nerve, with racy acidity and pristine minerality providing a thrilling background for those old-school white Burgundy purists seeking structure and longevity. The quality trajectory of the Mâcon has skyrocketed in recent years, with domaines like Bongran at the forefront. Fortunately though, prices remain accessible for anyone, and once you've experienced these wines for yourself, you'll surely want to be on the lookout for more discoveries like these that are coming through our pipeline in the future. | ||
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| J.M. Terroir Volcanique Rhum Agricole | ||
| From Martinique, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most fascinating aspects of the rum world is the mind-boggling variety of styles that result from virtually every step in the production process. In the case of the J.M Rhum Agricole Terroir Volcanique, it's a combination of features that produce an uncommonly singular profile for its sub-$35 price point. It starts with J.M.'s sugar cane, grown entirely on the distillery's estate in the heavily volcanic soils of the slopes of Mt. Pelée, Martinique's landmark mountain and the heart and soul of the J.M. distillery. It continues with the distillery's Creole copper column still, and finishes with Master Blender Karine Lassalle's innovative double-barreling regimen. The new make is first subjected to re-charred, used bourbon barrels then finished in heavy "alligator char" ex-rum barrels, all of which results in a distinctively complex spirit that still retains the youthful signature of cane juice base. The 96-point Terroir Volcanique offers up "more fun and intrigue than should be possible in a rum at this price point," as B-21 Spirits Buyer Andrew Kitz notes. With plenty of fruit-forward charm to go around, the Terroir Volcanique also asserts the barrel character and its volcanique origins in a firm, smoky minerality that balances the luxurious rhum agricole flavors and aromas. It's a rum made for sipping, but it's bound to add layers of nuance to all your favorite tiki cocktails as well. And now at a market-best price under $35, it's easy to go big and make it a staple in your home bar. | ||
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| 2022 Kelley Fox Pinot Blanc Freedom Hill Vineyard (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Blanc from Willamette, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "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." - Eric Guido, Vinous Long-time B-21 Pinot Noir fans are now well-familiar with the spectacular offerings from this boutique darling of the Willamette Valley scene. With a critical track record to rival pretty much anyone else in the appellation, Kelley Fox is a bona fide star these days, and we're thrilled to have such an established relationship with her and her wines. This outstanding set of releases showcases exactly why Eric Guido calls Kelley's wines "one of the most exciting portfolios of wines made in the United States." Her elegant vineyard-expressive Pinot Noirs and energetic Chardonnays are sourced from many of the most iconic vineyard in the Valley. The entire line-up is full of must-try masterpieces, from the 94-point "entry-level" Mirabai to the single-vineyard stunners like the 98-point 2023 Shafer Vineyard and the pair of 2022 standouts from Maresh Vineyard, one of the oldest sites in Oregon. Of these two, it's particularly worth noting that Kelley won't be making wine from Maresh going forward, so get your hands on them now. The whites are equally compelling, and not just the Chards (although these do present some of the sharpest buys in the category, all at under $40). Her Grüner and Pinot Blanc are a testament to her unwavering belief in these varietals, and the critics seem to agree. Any way you look at it, these are among the most consistently excellent wines out there, not only in Oregon but in the entire country. If you haven't jumped on board the Kelley Fox wagon, you have no idea what you're missing. | ||
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| 2023 Kelley Fox Pinot Noir Mirabai (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "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." - Eric Guido, Vinous Long-time B-21 Pinot Noir fans are now well-familiar with the spectacular offerings from this boutique darling of the Willamette Valley scene. With a critical track record to rival pretty much anyone else in the appellation, Kelley Fox is a bona fide star these days, and we're thrilled to have such an established relationship with her and her wines. This outstanding set of releases showcases exactly why Eric Guido calls Kelley's wines "one of the most exciting portfolios of wines made in the United States." Her elegant vineyard-expressive Pinot Noirs and energetic Chardonnays are sourced from many of the most iconic vineyard in the Valley. The entire line-up is full of must-try masterpieces, from the 94-point "entry-level" Mirabai to the single-vineyard stunners like the 98-point 2023 Shafer Vineyard and the pair of 2022 standouts from Maresh Vineyard, one of the oldest sites in Oregon. Of these two, it's particularly worth noting that Kelley won't be making wine from Maresh going forward, so get your hands on them now. The whites are equally compelling, and not just the Chards (although these do present some of the sharpest buys in the category, all at under $40). Her Grüner and Pinot Blanc are a testament to her unwavering belief in these varietals, and the critics seem to agree. Any way you look at it, these are among the most consistently excellent wines out there, not only in Oregon but in the entire country. If you haven't jumped on board the Kelley Fox wagon, you have no idea what you're missing. | ||
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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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| 2022 Domaine du Cayron Gigondas (750ml) | ||
| From Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...a medium to full-bodied, gamey, exotic, balanced Gigondas that's just about overflowing with character." - Jeb Dunnuck A favorite producer of B-21 Rhône fans and collectors offering incredible quality at an unbeatable value, Domaine du Cayron has hits the mark once again with their 2022 Gigondas. Fifth-generation sisters Roseline, Cendrine, and Delphine source their family’s single cuvée from old vines planted at some of the appellation’s highest altitudes, the domain's name Cayron referring to the crest of the Dentelles. Spanning nearly 17 hectares on 20 different parcels, the domaine’s vineyards are planted with mostly Grenache and smaller amounts of Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre on a mix of clay, marl and limestones soils. Employing traditional methods that are “old school all the way” according to Jeb Dunnuck, the Faraud sisters have produced "a killer effort offering beautiful darker fruits supported by some meaty, garrigue, and iron-like nuances" in their 2022 Gigondas. Along with Dunnuck, Vinous' Nicolas Greinacher declares "it’s an outstanding Gigondas worth seeking out" that will captivate fans of bold Southern Rhône reds on the first sip, while providing consistent pleasure for the next decade. | ||
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| 2023 Tenuta delle Terre Nere Rosso (750ml) | ||
| Nerello Mascalese from Etna, Sicily, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Etna is arguably Italy's most dynamic wine region at present, and leading the way is a familiar name to Italian aficionados, Tenuta della Terre Nere. Winemaker Marco de Grazia has been a force in the region's rise to prominence, and his 2023s continue a remarkable run of excellence for this iconic estate. "The [2023s] are some of the most exotic, finessed and elegant wines Terre Nere has ever produced." - Eric Guido, Vinous The inimitable single-vineyard bottlings are collectible gems in every way, but the entry-level, 95-point Etna Rosso shows every bit of de Grazia's top-tier talent that the flagship bottlings do. Sourced from younger vines across the estate's prized vineyards on the north side of the volcano, the 2023 Etna Rosso is "an energetic and wickedly fresh effort [that] aims to please" according to Eric Guido. It's a wine of "brightness, lovely density and focus ... with an almost pinot sensibility and a long finish" per James Suckling. We recently sourced this parcel at superb pricing, so anyone from hardcore Italian aficionados to everyday wine lovers can stock up on an artfully crafted beauty that's "easily one of the best buys coming out of Etna today." | ||
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| 2021 Tenuta di Arceno Il Fauno di Arcanum (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Toscana, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Vibrant, textural, spicy and mouthfilling, this 2021 is fruity but not juicy, with some savoury elements giving depth." - Decanter Tuscany's reference-point Tenuta di Arceno is renowned for their world-class prowess with Bordeaux varietals, but it's not just the tête de cuvée Arcanum and Valadorno that draw the attention. The second wine Il Fauno di Arcanum has been a perennial best-seller in the Super Tuscan category for years now, and the 2021 rendition draws on that vintage's spectacular reputation to showcase a new level of class and sophistication. The 2021 Il Fauno, made from a handful of the estate's earliest ripening sites, is further proof of how well Merlot thrives in Tuscany. The blend of 5% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot offer serious depth and varietal balance at its sub-$30 price point, "solidly built, with dense, finely wrought tannins and a long, detailed aftertaste," according to Wine Spectator. It's a classic display of robust, modern Bordeaux character with an unmistakable Tuscan signature, from one of the region's most reliable and consistent estates. | ||
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| 2023 Massolino Nebbiolo (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Langhe, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Massolino is another winery that has been on a roll of late. These new releases are stellar." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous One of Piedmont's leading lights, Massolino is a perennial standout among Piedmont fans for their super-refined, elegant house style. From the village wines to the single-cru expressions, you'll find captivating profiles that have won critical accolades year in and year out. We just sourced a must-see parcel of some of the estate's finest recent releases, showcasing the impeccable excellence that characterizes every bottle of Massolino. Leading off is the 2021 village Barbaresco, a blend from the Albesani, Starderi, and Serraboella crus. As Galloni explains, "Readers will find a super-classic Barbaresco [with] lifted aromatics, mid-weight structure and persistent yet fine tannins." The triple 95-point, "very impressive and detailed" 2021 Albesani Barbaresco takes things up a notch - "a super-classic wine that ... possesses notable structure and the understated depth that is common of Barbaresco" according to Galloni. Finally, Piedmont fans shouldn't overlook the other varietal gems in the Massolino stable, highlighted by their lovely, utterly charming 2023 Dolcetto and the 93-point 2021 Barbera Gisep, a blend of three parcels within the Barolo DOCG designation with more serious pedigree than is typically found in this "humble" Piedmont varietal. There's no doubt that Massolino should be on every Piedmont lover's short list, and these latest releases show one of the region's great estates at the top of their game. | ||
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| 2016 I Pentri Kerres Piedirosso (750ml) | ||
| Piedirosso from Campania, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "These are some of the most enjoyable interpretations of the varieties readers will find in the region ... I Pentri is on the list of the top five producers to pay attention to in Campania." - Eric Guido, Vinous Perhaps no other wine-producing country on earth can match Italy's depth and scope of variety. Hundreds of indigenous varietals still thrive here, as they have for thousands of years, and you don't need to venture far off the well-known and well-trodden path to find some truly incredible gems, typically at ridiculous bargain prices. In the southern Campania region, life still moves at an agrarian pace without the hustle of Italy's more industrialized, "modern" north. They don't get the attention of Piedmont or Tuscany, but that's all to the good for us wine lovers. The native varieties here are wildly different than those up north, yet they still offer serious, distinctive character in the hands of the benchmark estates like I Pentri. Among those varietals beginning to make a splash is Piedirosso. Typically used in blending with the more well-known Aglianico, it's starting to find footing on its own thanks to spectacular expressions like I Pentri's Kerres. With deep, brooding personality, it's undoubtedly a wine for the cellar, and if you jump on the pair of vintages offered here, you'll see why. "This is as serious as the variety gets," notes Eric Guido, as the 2016 and 2021 renditions each showcase a stellar vintage at different stages of its evolution. Whether you know Campania or not, you won't be disappointed in getting familiar with this pair of world-class value stunners. | ||
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| 2021 I Pentri Kerres Piedirosso (750ml) | ||
| Piedirosso from Campania, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "These are some of the most enjoyable interpretations of the varieties readers will find in the region ... I Pentri is on the list of the top five producers to pay attention to in Campania." - Eric Guido, Vinous Perhaps no other wine-producing country on earth can match Italy's depth and scope of variety. Hundreds of indigenous varietals still thrive here, as they have for thousands of years, and you don't need to venture far off the well-known and well-trodden path to find some truly incredible gems, typically at ridiculous bargain prices. In the southern Campania region, life still moves at an agrarian pace without the hustle of Italy's more industrialized, "modern" north. They don't get the attention of Piedmont or Tuscany, but that's all to the good for us wine lovers. The native varieties here are wildly different than those up north, yet they still offer serious, distinctive character in the hands of the benchmark estates like I Pentri. Among those varietals beginning to make a splash is Piedirosso. Typically used in blending with the more well-known Aglianico, it's starting to find footing on its own thanks to spectacular expressions like I Pentri's Kerres. With deep, brooding personality, it's undoubtedly a wine for the cellar, and if you jump on the pair of vintages offered here, you'll see why. "This is as serious as the variety gets," notes Eric Guido, as the 2016 and 2021 renditions each showcase a stellar vintage at different stages of its evolution. Whether you know Campania or not, you won't be disappointed in getting familiar with this pair of world-class value stunners. | ||
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| Four Pillars Fresh Yuzu Gin (750ml) | ||
| From Victoria, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "These inventive yet classic gins appeal to a broad range of tastes and applications. It's no wonder Four Pillars has become the brightest star in the craft gin scene." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer In a relatively short time frame, Four Pillars has made a huge splash in the craft gin world, developing a devoted following not only in their Australian homeland but here in the U.S. as well. In fact, they're widely considered the finest gin distillery in the world, and to prove it, they sport three Best Gin Distillery crowns from the International Wine and Spirits Competition since 2019. After all, gin is all they do, so they put everything they have into the art with stunning results. Starting with the finest locally sourced Australian grain, the team at Four Pillars produces a remarkably pure spirit that lends itself to a huge variety of botanicals and thus to an incredibly imaginative range of experimental styles. As a result, they've turned out some absolutely stunning expressions that are like nothing else in the category. The Fresh Yuzu is perhaps the best example of this experimental wizardry. The key ingredient is, of course, fresh yuzu fruit grown in Australia. But the team then gives it its proper due by adding various botanicals that are often paired with yuzu in cuisine – ginger, sencha genmaicha, turmeric, juniper berry, and coriander to name just a few. The profile is centered on citrus, but the other elements are so well-defined that it doesn't stray a single step from a proper gin character of the highest order. Taking things to the savory end of the spectrum, the equally innovative Olive Leaf is a true stroke of genius. As the name suggests, it's steeped with olive leaves and olive oil from the famed Cobram Estate in Yarra Valley, along with numerous companions like rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts, and grapefruit. As an antidote to citrusy gins, it's your new go-to for next-level martinis or G&Ts. No matter your preference, both of these artfully crafted, best-in-class expressions are sure to become staples on your bar. | ||
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| Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin (750ml) | ||
| From Victoria, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "These inventive yet classic gins appeal to a broad range of tastes and applications. It's no wonder Four Pillars has become the brightest star in the craft gin scene." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer In a relatively short time frame, Four Pillars has made a huge splash in the craft gin world, developing a devoted following not only in their Australian homeland but here in the U.S. as well. In fact, they're widely considered the finest gin distillery in the world, and to prove it, they sport three Best Gin Distillery crowns from the International Wine and Spirits Competition since 2019. After all, gin is all they do, so they put everything they have into the art with stunning results. Starting with the finest locally sourced Australian grain, the team at Four Pillars produces a remarkably pure spirit that lends itself to a huge variety of botanicals and thus to an incredibly imaginative range of experimental styles. As a result, they've turned out some absolutely stunning expressions that are like nothing else in the category. The Fresh Yuzu is perhaps the best example of this experimental wizardry. The key ingredient is, of course, fresh yuzu fruit grown in Australia. But the team then gives it its proper due by adding various botanicals that are often paired with yuzu in cuisine – ginger, sencha genmaicha, turmeric, juniper berry, and coriander to name just a few. The profile is centered on citrus, but the other elements are so well-defined that it doesn't stray a single step from a proper gin character of the highest order. Taking things to the savory end of the spectrum, the equally innovative Olive Leaf is a true stroke of genius. As the name suggests, it's steeped with olive leaves and olive oil from the famed Cobram Estate in Yarra Valley, along with numerous companions like rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts, and grapefruit. As an antidote to citrusy gins, it's your new go-to for next-level martinis or G&Ts. No matter your preference, both of these artfully crafted, best-in-class expressions are sure to become staples on your bar. | ||
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| 2023 Rippon Sauvignon Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Sauvignon Blanc from Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...a clothy, textural wine of presence and detail." - Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate Central Otago's Rippon is unequivocally a "grand cru" New Zealand estate by any measure, their Pinot Noirs representing the very top echelon of the country's offerings in that category. However, that same incredible pedigree, from vineyards to winemaking, also goes into their estate Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is an elevated expression of the varietal to compete with the very best anywhere in the world. All about textural gravitas and substance, the 2023 is worlds apart from what you'd typically expect from New Zealand Sauv Blanc – after all, Lake Wanaka and Central Otago are worlds apart from Marlborough. Own-rooted, dry-farmed vines dating back to 1983 provide the spectacular raw materials for this 95-point stunner that James Sucklng calls "unique, mouthwatering and textured." We've always been big fans of Rippon, and we were thrilled to come across their latest releases at can't-miss pricing. Needless to say, we went all in one of the most compelling Kiwi Sauv Blancs we've found in a long time, so you can too. | ||
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| 2023 Bethel Heights Pinot Noir Estate (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This wine consistently makes a compelling case for one of the best under $50 Oregon Pinot Noirs." - Clive Pursehouse, Decanter One of the best under-$50 Oregon Pinot Noirs? No question. We'll do you one better – how about the best Oregon Pinot Noir for under $30? We think that's exactly what you're getting in the 2023 Bethel Heights Estate Pinot Noir at our market-best pricing. Sourced from three of the Casteel family's outstanding estate vineyards, this wine is the very definition of bang for your buck. Winemaker Ben Casteel is an ardent believer in bringing his A-game to everything he makes, and that includes his entry-level offering. This double 94-point gem is "medium-bodied, ripe, and elegant, with fine tannins and more density than the 2021 or 2022 vintages, yet it remains light on its feet." In short, it's a showcase of all that we love about Eola-Amity Hills Pinot, and it even has "serious enough structure to lay down should you choose" according to Decanter. It's also a perfect example of what makes Bethel Heights our best-selling Oregon wine brand, several years running. | ||
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| 2022 J. Bookwalter Foreshadow Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Columbia, Washington State | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Crafted in a cooler 2022 Washington State vintage producing "aromatic, elegant and approachable" wines according to Eric Guido of Vinous, the silky and plush 93 pt. 2022 J. Bookwalter Foreshadow Cabernet Sauvignon offers aromatic ripe dark fruit layered with supple, integrated tannins, one of the year's top scoring Columbia Valley Cabs unbeatably priced to enjoy often. After building a solid reputation in viticulture in California's San Joaquin Valley, pioneering Washington state grower Jerry Bookwalter moved to the Columbia Valley in the early 1970's to manage the plantings of three famed Washington vineyards, Sagemoor, Bacchus and Dionysus, and eventually became manager of the Conner Lee Vineyard, renowned as the source of richly textured, balanced and complex wines. Providing grapes to many small, high-quality wineries including Leonetti Cellars and Woodward Canyon, Bookwalter was inspired to launch his own winery in 1982 and with the help of his son John, changed the winery's focus to produce higher end reds from Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1990's under the J. Bookwalter Winery label. A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, 5% Syrah and 3% Petit Verdot sourced primarily from the Conner Lee Vineyard, the refined and full-bodied 2022 J. Bookwalter Foreshadow was aged for 18 months in a mix of new and neutral French oak, yielding a luscious, structured Cab with a lingering, spiced finish and substantial velvety tannins built for a decade or more of evolution. Described by the Wine Spectator's Tim Fish as "a rich source for outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon reds at moderate prices," the bold and appealing 93 pt. 2022 J. Bookwalter Foreshadow Cabernet Sauvignon tops the list of Columbia Valley Cabs that overdeliver value, a welcome opportunity for lovers of robust, age worthy Cabs seeking a great deal to stock up on one of the region's best at a bargain price. | ||
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| 2020 Domaine Gadais Muscadet Monnieres St-Fiacre Plantation 1947 (750ml) | ||
| Melon de Bourgogne from Muscadet, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Loire wine scene is the sheer treasure trove of over-performing values to be found nearly everywhere you look up and down the valley. True insiders know the first place to go to maximize the value of your dollar is Muscadet Sèvre et Maine at the far western end of the Loire. Made strictly from the Mélon de Bourgogne grape, these wines are well-known for their racy acidity and vibrant mineral character, accentuated by the cool maritime climate and balanced by textural richness thanks to aging on the fine lees. Based on those qualities, you might think these are ideal pairings for seafood, and you'd be right. Have some top-notch oysters but don't want to splash out for Champagne? Muscadet is your answer! This trio from the reference-point Domaine Gadais is exemplary of what the category offers white wine lovers – beautifully crafted, pure terroir expressions, glowing critical praise, and must-see pricing that invites stocking up by the case. And the best part? Each wine is emblematic of Muscadet's famed age-worthy potential, putting them among the sharpest cellar buys anywhere in the world. | ||
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| Blue Note Juke Joint Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) | ||
| From Memphis, Tennessee | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More With the prices in the bourbon category getting, well ... shall we say, out of control, it's nice to come across something with rock solid accolades and reputation that you can still grab for a price that makes it easy to share. The Blue Note Juke Joint Straight Bourbon is a classic Kentucky mashbill from an undisclosed distiller that was then aged in the Big River Distilling Co's Tennessee warehouse along the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. At only three years old, it still boasts uncommon weight and a rounded texture, having been bottled without filtration. No surprise then that it notched 93 points and a Best Buy designation from Wine Enthusiast, while also taking home numerous high-profile awards, culminating in a Platinum medal and double Gold medals at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. At under $30, it's not an outlandish claim to say this may the best value bourbon on the shelf, and it's certainly an easy choice if you're looking for a new go-to session option or a base for your favorite classic cocktails. | ||
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| 2023 Frank Family Vineyard Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Carneros, 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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| 2022 Frank Family Vineyard Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Carneros, 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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