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| 2022 Xanadu Chardonnay Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As prices in Napa Valley continue to skyrocket, savvy collectors are turning to some far-flung reaches to get their hands on cult-caliber Cabernets and Chardonnays for prices that don't break the bank, and Australia's Margaret River is at the top of the pyramid in that regard. You may be familiar with iconic Leeuwin's Art Series, but Xanadu has been quietly keeping pace for years with their equally stunning line-up, headlined by the critically acclaimed Reserve bottlings. At 97+ points, the 2022 Chardonnay Reserve is "a wine of profound complexity and length, yet it is steely, restrained and mineral in the extreme," writes Erin Larkin of Wine Advocate. The heavily maritime climate of the Wallcliffe sub-region that Xanadu calls home gives extra vibrancy and verve to an already racy style of Chardonnay that Margaret River is well-known for, as is confirmed by several glowing critical reviews in addition to Larkin's. A pair of 96-point reviews from Suckling and Halliday Wine Companion and 94 points from Vinous add icing to the cake. Likewise, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve notched 95+ points from Vinous' Angus Hughson, who writes, "all the signs point to something special" in this hallmark Margaret River expression. In other words, don't sleep for a second on this pair for a bona fide, world-class collectibles that can be had for a fraction of the price of similar bottlings from Napa or Burgundy. At the opposite end of the price spectrum, the flagship wines present some of the greatest QPR expressions to be found anywhere in Australia, with massive scores across the board and under $30 each. The 95-point 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a "classic, polished Margaret River Cab" that demonstrates a "youthful, vibrant nature" today but will certainly cruise for a few years in the cellar. Also pulling in 95 points, the 2023 Chardonnay is "very focused and mineral-driven," demonstrating the excellent, cool-vintage potential of Margaret River Chard in this vintage. The electric, vibrant style of Xanadu means this is one for the cellar, and probably for much longer than you'd think, according to Wine Enthusiast's Christina Pickard. It's not every day that you can find a pair of benchmark collectible and a pair of stellar QPR value stars in the same offer, let alone from the same producer, but today offers a chance for wine lovers of all stripes and budgets to load up on some overperforming all-stars at market-best pricing across the board. | ||
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| 2022 Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More As prices in Napa Valley continue to skyrocket, savvy collectors are turning to some far-flung reaches to get their hands on cult-caliber Cabernets and Chardonnays for prices that don't break the bank, and Australia's Margaret River is at the top of the pyramid in that regard. You may be familiar with iconic Leeuwin's Art Series, but Xanadu has been quietly keeping pace for years with their equally stunning line-up, headlined by the critically acclaimed Reserve bottlings. At 97+ points, the 2022 Chardonnay Reserve is "a wine of profound complexity and length, yet it is steely, restrained and mineral in the extreme," writes Erin Larkin of Wine Advocate. The heavily maritime climate of the Wallcliffe sub-region that Xanadu calls home gives extra vibrancy and verve to an already racy style of Chardonnay that Margaret River is well-known for, as is confirmed by several glowing critical reviews in addition to Larkin's. A pair of 96-point reviews from Suckling and Halliday Wine Companion and 94 points from Vinous add icing to the cake. Likewise, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve notched 95+ points from Vinous' Angus Hughson, who writes, "all the signs point to something special" in this hallmark Margaret River expression. In other words, don't sleep for a second on this pair for a bona fide, world-class collectibles that can be had for a fraction of the price of similar bottlings from Napa or Burgundy. At the opposite end of the price spectrum, the flagship wines present some of the greatest QPR expressions to be found anywhere in Australia, with massive scores across the board and under $30 each. The 95-point 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a "classic, polished Margaret River Cab" that demonstrates a "youthful, vibrant nature" today but will certainly cruise for a few years in the cellar. Also pulling in 95 points, the 2023 Chardonnay is "very focused and mineral-driven," demonstrating the excellent, cool-vintage potential of Margaret River Chard in this vintage. The electric, vibrant style of Xanadu means this is one for the cellar, and probably for much longer than you'd think, according to Wine Enthusiast's Christina Pickard. It's not every day that you can find a pair of benchmark collectible and a pair of stellar QPR value stars in the same offer, let alone from the same producer, but today offers a chance for wine lovers of all stripes and budgets to load up on some overperforming all-stars at market-best pricing across the board. | ||
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| 2022 Vieux Chateau Saint Andre (750ml) | ||
| From Montagne Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2022 Stags' Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sometimes the best choice is one that's so familiar that you might forget it's even there, but these top scoring Stags' Leap Winery selections deserve the full attention of Napa wine lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of seriously delicious white and red wines from prime Napa terroir available at bargain pricing whether choosing a few favorites or mixing a case. Among the oldest growers in the Stags Leap District, the 240-acre property Stags' Leap Winery on the Silverado Trail has been continuously planted with vines since the late 1800's, the once abandoned estate undergoing a lengthy renovation beginning in the 1970's and becoming part of Treasury Wine Estates in 2011. More than a nostalgic reminder of the days when great Napa wines didn't have to cost an arm and a leg, these high-scoring Stags' Leap Winery selections deliver the goods, all well-crafted, delicious wines reasonably priced for stocking up to enjoy anytime a taste of Napa calls. | ||
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| 2022 Schoffit Riesling Sommerberg Grand Cru (750ml) | ||
| Riesling from Alsace, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The wines are compelling in a rather quiet way, understated but so convincing." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous "They are of a consistently high quality and, in my opinion, still far too rarely on the radar of importers, retailers and sommeliers." - Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate Alsace as a whole is often considered an under-the-radar region, so when we come upon a domaine that is known as "under the radar," it's safe to say it's probably far under the radar. The shame is, as Wine Advocate's Stephan Reinhardt notes above, that wines and domaines like these deserve far more attention. However, clued-in and savvy wine collectors can reap serious benefits in the form of world-class cellar contenders at prices that are a fraction of what you'd pay for comparable quality and pedigree from Burgundy, Champagne, or virtually anywhere else in France. Domaine Schoffit's vineyard stable is loaded with prime sites, but the unquestioned jewel in the crown is the Clos St-Théobald in the Rangen de Thann Grand Cru, inarguably the finest vineyard in Alsace. At 6.5 hectares, the Clos is now a monopole since Bernard Schoffit completed his ambitious reclamation project to unite the entire site under his domaine. The super-steep slopes and volcanic soitls produce one of the world's most distinctive Rieslings, and the 97-point 2022 ranks among the greatest vintages ever made of this wine. Not to be overlooked, the 2022 Sommerberg Grand Cru Riesling is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of aromatic purity and textural intensity. Finally, the 2022 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, particularly "the glorious spice of Gewürztraminer" as Anne Krebiehl notes. It bears repeating – these wines belong on the short list of Alsace's finest names along side the Weinbachs, Trimbachs, and Zind-Humbrechts, so if you're a serious Alsace fan or collector of the world's best Rieslings, make room in the cellar. You'll be so glad you did. | ||
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| 2022 Schoffit Riesling Clos St Theobald Grand Cru Rangen de Thann (750ml) | ||
| Riesling from Alsace, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The wines are compelling in a rather quiet way, understated but so convincing." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous "They are of a consistently high quality and, in my opinion, still far too rarely on the radar of importers, retailers and sommeliers." - Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate Alsace as a whole is often considered an under-the-radar region, so when we come upon a domaine that is known as "under the radar," it's safe to say it's probably far under the radar. The shame is, as Wine Advocate's Stephan Reinhardt notes above, that wines and domaines like these deserve far more attention. However, clued-in and savvy wine collectors can reap serious benefits in the form of world-class cellar contenders at prices that are a fraction of what you'd pay for comparable quality and pedigree from Burgundy, Champagne, or virtually anywhere else in France. Domaine Schoffit's vineyard stable is loaded with prime sites, but the unquestioned jewel in the crown is the Clos St-Théobald in the Rangen de Thann Grand Cru, inarguably the finest vineyard in Alsace. At 6.5 hectares, the Clos is now a monopole since Bernard Schoffit completed his ambitious reclamation project to unite the entire site under his domaine. The super-steep slopes and volcanic soitls produce one of the world's most distinctive Rieslings, and the 97-point 2022 ranks among the greatest vintages ever made of this wine. Not to be overlooked, the 2022 Sommerberg Grand Cru Riesling is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of aromatic purity and textural intensity. Finally, the 2022 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, particularly "the glorious spice of Gewürztraminer" as Anne Krebiehl notes. It bears repeating – these wines belong on the short list of Alsace's finest names along side the Weinbachs, Trimbachs, and Zind-Humbrechts, so if you're a serious Alsace fan or collector of the world's best Rieslings, make room in the cellar. You'll be so glad you did. | ||
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| 2022 Schoffit Gewurztraminer Clos St Theobald Grand Cru Rangen de Thann (750ml) | ||
| Gewurztraminer from Alsace, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The wines are compelling in a rather quiet way, understated but so convincing." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous "They are of a consistently high quality and, in my opinion, still far too rarely on the radar of importers, retailers and sommeliers." - Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate Alsace as a whole is often considered an under-the-radar region, so when we come upon a domaine that is known as "under the radar," it's safe to say it's probably far under the radar. The shame is, as Wine Advocate's Stephan Reinhardt notes above, that wines and domaines like these deserve far more attention. However, clued-in and savvy wine collectors can reap serious benefits in the form of world-class cellar contenders at prices that are a fraction of what you'd pay for comparable quality and pedigree from Burgundy, Champagne, or virtually anywhere else in France. Domaine Schoffit's vineyard stable is loaded with prime sites, but the unquestioned jewel in the crown is the Clos St-Théobald in the Rangen de Thann Grand Cru, inarguably the finest vineyard in Alsace. At 6.5 hectares, the Clos is now a monopole since Bernard Schoffit completed his ambitious reclamation project to unite the entire site under his domaine. The super-steep slopes and volcanic soitls produce one of the world's most distinctive Rieslings, and the 97-point 2022 ranks among the greatest vintages ever made of this wine. Not to be overlooked, the 2022 Sommerberg Grand Cru Riesling is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of aromatic purity and textural intensity. Finally, the 2022 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, particularly "the glorious spice of Gewürztraminer" as Anne Krebiehl notes. It bears repeating – these wines belong on the short list of Alsace's finest names along side the Weinbachs, Trimbachs, and Zind-Humbrechts, so if you're a serious Alsace fan or collector of the world's best Rieslings, make room in the cellar. You'll be so glad you did. | ||
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| 2022 Roucas Toumba Vacqueyras Les Restanques de Cabassole (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Vacqueyras, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We've been searching high and low for a top-notch Vacqueyras domaine to add to our direct-import stable, and last October we got more than we bargained for from Eric Boutelin's Roucas Toumba estate. The domaine is not nearly as well-known as it should be, given that he has some of the Vacqueyras appellation's most pristine, old-vine parcels and employs incredibly meticulous winemaking practices to give his vines their absolute best expression, resulting in what Wine Advocate's Yohan Castaing calls "some of the appellation’s most authentic and terroir-driven wines." After tasting through the latest releases, we couldn't agree more. "The 2022 Vacqueyras les Restanques de Cabassole is a superb showing from this estate ... This is a serious Vacqueyras with depth, drive and aging potential." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate The entire range is top-tier, and the 2022 Restanques de Cabassole is a true revelation of the absolute heights that Vacqueyras can reach and an absolutely showstopping effort that puts the appellation on another level altogether, notching 94+ points from Wine Advocate. B-21 Rhône Buyer Andrew Kitz calls it "a thoroughly complete expression of true Southern Rhône character, classic in every way." "The purity and precision here are impressive, and the long, focused finish underscores its potential. This is a superb Vacqueyras..." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate The 93-point 2023 La Grande Terre, another old-vine Grenache-based gem that's done entirely in concrete, which gives the wine absolutely stunning purity of fruit with "supple and enveloping" textural precision. Where the Restanques certainly needs time in the cellar to show all its cards, the Grande Terre is a thrilling preview that is accessible now, with the substance and craftsmanship to develop its own mesmerizing nuances over time, as well. Vacqueyras has long lived in the shadow of Gigondas, but with efforts like these from Eric Boutelin, we're extremely excited to showcase the rising tide of quality in this excellent but overlooked appellation. There's no question that Boutelin's star is rising, and we're thrilled to add him to our direct-import portfolio, with two of the sharpest Rhône buys we've seen all year. | ||
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| 2022 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 91-point 2023 Raymond Chardonnay Reserve Selection and elegant, 93-point 2022 Raymond Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Selection are 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-point consulting winemaker Phillippe 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 Philippe Alliet Chinon Vieilles Vignes (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Chinon, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "What a great scoop for our Loire direct-import portfolio to have Philippe Alliet and his son Pierre join the fold ... these wines are easily among the very best in Chinon." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Loire Buyer While not extremely well-known on this side of the Atlantic, Domaine Philippe Alliet is one of the Chinon appellation's leading lights, standing in strong company right alongside the likes of Charles Joguet. Father and son Philippe and Pierre employ meticulous methods to their prized vineyard holdings (some of the very best in all of Chinon), spearheading a new wave of viticulture that emphasizes very low yields and optimally ripe fruit at all costs. The resulting wines are nothing short of revelatory, reference-point expressions, which we saw first-hand during a tasting last fall. The entire range is superb, but the 93-point 2022 Vieilles Vignes offers a perfect introduction to this remarkable, must-know estate.Selecting from the oldest vines in their various plots, all at least 70 years old, the Alliets vinify and age the VV entirely in cement vats, while full de-stemming only adds to the sheer allure of the wine's personality and expression. As Yohan Castaing of Wine Advocate writes, "This vintage is one of the most precise and pure expressions of Vieilles Vignes I have ever tasted. Kudos!" Turning to the single-vineyard cuvées, the 2022 L'Huisserie hails from a south-facing on Chinon's most favored hillside, the clay and flint soils imparting both a round, fleshy, full-fruited character as well as a firm mineral signature to the wine. This "multidimensional wine" showcase the Alliet style to a T, with none of the rusticity that often follows Chinon Cab Franc. Finally, the 2023 Coteau de Noiré is a stupendous expression of a Chinon "grand cru" site with similar clay and marl soils and a much steeper 40% incline. The wine exhibits a firm structural foundation, sappy mid-palate, and brooding fruit profile for what amounts to a pinnacle expression of cellar-worthy Cabernet Franc. Best of all, we're bringing you the Alliet wines directly from the domaine as new additions to our rapidly expanding Loire direct-import range, so the quality for price, which was already outstanding, becomes essentially unbeatable in the category. | ||
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| 2022 Philippe Alliet Chinon L'Huisserie (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Chinon, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "What a great scoop for our Loire direct-import portfolio to have Philippe Alliet and his son Pierre join the fold ... these wines are easily among the very best in Chinon." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Loire Buyer While not extremely well-known on this side of the Atlantic, Domaine Philippe Alliet is one of the Chinon appellation's leading lights, standing in strong company right alongside the likes of Charles Joguet. Father and son Philippe and Pierre employ meticulous methods to their prized vineyard holdings (some of the very best in all of Chinon), spearheading a new wave of viticulture that emphasizes very low yields and optimally ripe fruit at all costs. The resulting wines are nothing short of revelatory, reference-point expressions, which we saw first-hand during a tasting last fall. The entire range is superb, but the 93-point 2022 Vieilles Vignes offers a perfect introduction to this remarkable, must-know estate.Selecting from the oldest vines in their various plots, all at least 70 years old, the Alliets vinify and age the VV entirely in cement vats, while full de-stemming only adds to the sheer allure of the wine's personality and expression. As Yohan Castaing of Wine Advocate writes, "This vintage is one of the most precise and pure expressions of Vieilles Vignes I have ever tasted. Kudos!" Turning to the single-vineyard cuvées, the 2022 L'Huisserie hails from a south-facing on Chinon's most favored hillside, the clay and flint soils imparting both a round, fleshy, full-fruited character as well as a firm mineral signature to the wine. This "multidimensional wine" showcase the Alliet style to a T, with none of the rusticity that often follows Chinon Cab Franc. Finally, the 2023 Coteau de Noiré is a stupendous expression of a Chinon "grand cru" site with similar clay and marl soils and a much steeper 40% incline. The wine exhibits a firm structural foundation, sappy mid-palate, and brooding fruit profile for what amounts to a pinnacle expression of cellar-worthy Cabernet Franc. Best of all, we're bringing you the Alliet wines directly from the domaine as new additions to our rapidly expanding Loire direct-import range, so the quality for price, which was already outstanding, becomes essentially unbeatable in the category. | ||
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| 2022 Madame de Beaucaillou (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2022 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2022 Larrivet Haut Brion Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Confirming my expectations, the 2022 Larrivet Haut-Brion is one of the best wines ever produced at this estate." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate As part of the general trend of overperforming Pessac estates in the past decade, Larrivet Haut-Brion's stock is steadily rising among the critical press and Bordeaux enthusiasts alike. Thanks to the guiding hand of famed enologist Michel Rolland, the style of the estate's wines has taken on an unprecedented level of class and polish culminating in the spectacular 2022 vintage. Following the overall character of the vintage, this triple 95-point, sub-$50 standout is "a dramatic, deeply resonant wine" with loads of structural stuffing to go the distance in the cellar. To further emphasize the estate's marvelous recent trajectory, we also have four back-vintage gems on offer that showcase how well Larrivet performs year in and year out. The 2016 is now in its prime drinking window where it will remain for years, while the 95-point 2019 shows "a rich, broad, mouth-filling, spicy, complex and full-bodied style that has loads to love" per Jeb Dunnuck. Keen-eyed collectors also won't sleep on the AG95 rendition from the "off-vintage" of 2017. "Bold, rich and intense, the 2017 exudes tremendous depth and intensity ... Readers should expect a wine of real energy and explosive power," declares Galloni. All in all, we love featuring Pessac, because the appellation is rife with stupendous collectible values, and while collectors often focus on building verticals of Bordeaux's most hallowed names, this line-up proves that you can get tremendous mileage out of doing the same with under-the-radar gems like Larrivet. | ||
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| 2022 Jean Collet Valmur Chablis Grand Cru (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Chablis, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We've been eyeing Domaine Jean Collet for a while as a new addition to our direct-import stable, and now we have them. This family-run domaine, now under the direction of the very talented Romain Collet, is a bastion of classically styled Chablis, even in a ripe vintage like 2022. Even better, pricing remains more than reasonable, as is quite evident in this lovely trio of 2022s on offer today. Leading off is the overachieving 1er Cru Montmains. Collet's five plots were all planted between 1970 and 1985 and all are within the original Montmains lieu-dit on rocky, shallow soils of Kimmeridgian limestone. There is virtually no clay at all in these plots, so the style of the wine is "Crisp, cool and precise ... a fine example of Montmains," according to Decanter, made all the more so by the stainless steel vinification and aging. However, the warm vintage certainly adds a layer of depth that offers perfect counter-point to the fine minerality and steely energy of the Montmains cru. Both Jasper Morris and Allen Meadows found great favor in the intensity and density of the 1er Cru Les Forêts, from a high-density planting of 8,000 vines/ha. Vinification and aging in concrete egg give the 2022 exceptional balance, allowing just enough 2022 ripeness to shine while not going overboard. With 93-point potential per Morris, it's a sharp choice for fans of classic Chablis with a touch of modern flair. Finally, the 94-point Valmur from a plot planted in 1972 offers "concentrated flavors that possess both impressive power and intensity before terminating in a compact, serious, youthfully austere and sneaky long finish" as noted by Allen Meadows of Burghound. With "plenty of energy" and the typical Valmur structure, the 2022 will cruise in the cellar for several years before reaching its apogee. As even Chablis prices have begun to jump in recent years, sharp collectors should be taking a good look at domaine-direct offers like this to maximize their white Burgundy buck, especially if the put a premium on classic winemaking and terroir expression. | ||
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| 2022 Jean Collet Montmains Chablis 1er Cru (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Chablis, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We've been eyeing Domaine Jean Collet for a while as a new addition to our direct-import stable, and now we have them. This family-run domaine, now under the direction of the very talented Romain Collet, is a bastion of classically styled Chablis, even in a ripe vintage like 2022. Even better, pricing remains more than reasonable, as is quite evident in this lovely trio of 2022s on offer today. Leading off is the overachieving 1er Cru Montmains. Collet's five plots were all planted between 1970 and 1985 and all are within the original Montmains lieu-dit on rocky, shallow soils of Kimmeridgian limestone. There is virtually no clay at all in these plots, so the style of the wine is "Crisp, cool and precise ... a fine example of Montmains," according to Decanter, made all the more so by the stainless steel vinification and aging. However, the warm vintage certainly adds a layer of depth that offers perfect counter-point to the fine minerality and steely energy of the Montmains cru. Both Jasper Morris and Allen Meadows found great favor in the intensity and density of the 1er Cru Les Forêts, from a high-density planting of 8,000 vines/ha. Vinification and aging in concrete egg give the 2022 exceptional balance, allowing just enough 2022 ripeness to shine while not going overboard. With 93-point potential per Morris, it's a sharp choice for fans of classic Chablis with a touch of modern flair. Finally, the 94-point Valmur from a plot planted in 1972 offers "concentrated flavors that possess both impressive power and intensity before terminating in a compact, serious, youthfully austere and sneaky long finish" as noted by Allen Meadows of Burghound. With "plenty of energy" and the typical Valmur structure, the 2022 will cruise in the cellar for several years before reaching its apogee. As even Chablis prices have begun to jump in recent years, sharp collectors should be taking a good look at domaine-direct offers like this to maximize their white Burgundy buck, especially if the put a premium on classic winemaking and terroir expression. | ||
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| 2022 Jean Collet Les Forets Chablis 1er Cru (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Chablis, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We've been eyeing Domaine Jean Collet for a while as a new addition to our direct-import stable, and now we have them. This family-run domaine, now under the direction of the very talented Romain Collet, is a bastion of classically styled Chablis, even in a ripe vintage like 2022. Even better, pricing remains more than reasonable, as is quite evident in this lovely trio of 2022s on offer today. Leading off is the overachieving 1er Cru Montmains. Collet's five plots were all planted between 1970 and 1985 and all are within the original Montmains lieu-dit on rocky, shallow soils of Kimmeridgian limestone. There is virtually no clay at all in these plots, so the style of the wine is "Crisp, cool and precise ... a fine example of Montmains," according to Decanter, made all the more so by the stainless steel vinification and aging. However, the warm vintage certainly adds a layer of depth that offers perfect counter-point to the fine minerality and steely energy of the Montmains cru. Both Jasper Morris and Allen Meadows found great favor in the intensity and density of the 1er Cru Les Forêts, from a high-density planting of 8,000 vines/ha. Vinification and aging in concrete egg give the 2022 exceptional balance, allowing just enough 2022 ripeness to shine while not going overboard. With 93-point potential per Morris, it's a sharp choice for fans of classic Chablis with a touch of modern flair. Finally, the 94-point Valmur from a plot planted in 1972 offers "concentrated flavors that possess both impressive power and intensity before terminating in a compact, serious, youthfully austere and sneaky long finish" as noted by Allen Meadows of Burghound. With "plenty of energy" and the typical Valmur structure, the 2022 will cruise in the cellar for several years before reaching its apogee. As even Chablis prices have begun to jump in recent years, sharp collectors should be taking a good look at domaine-direct offers like this to maximize their white Burgundy buck, especially if the put a premium on classic winemaking and terroir expression. | ||
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| 2022 Hartford Old Vine Zinfandel Fanucchi-Wood Road Vineyard (750ml) | ||
| Zinfandel from Russian River, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The Hartford Family's roots in Sonoma's Russian River Valley are second to none, and they farm some of the Golden State's most prized plots of old-vine Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Their reference-point range runs the gamut from incredible single-vineyard expressions to some of the greatest bang-for-the-buck values in the appellation. The 2023 Russian River Pinot Noir delivers everything that long-time fans of the estate are looking for. Pure Pinot Noir charm is on full display in vibrant, ripe fruit, silky texture, and, most importantly, superb balance, all at an easy price that makes this undisputed crowd-pleaser accessible to a broad audience. The 2023 Russian River Chardonnay is "a worthy follow-up to the brilliant 2022," displaying classic, richly textured Russian River fruit, vibrant acidic balance, and a luxurious finish that reveals its world-class pedigree. Fans of California Chardonnay may have grown used to overpaying for underwhelming quality, but this 94-point, sub-$20 beauty is ideally suited to buck that trend. Turning to the estate's wheelhouse, don't miss the trio of top-flight, single-vineyard Zinfandels, highlighted by the WS96 Highwire Vineyard from the acclaimed 2023 vintage. "Zin rarely shows this much focus and tenstion," notes Wine Spectator, and we couldn't agree more. Whether you're looking for an easy everyday go-to or a top-tier reference-point expression for the cellar, this range from Hartford has it in spades. | ||
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| 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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| 2022 Frank Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Frank Family Vineyards has earned a loyal following for their consistently outstanding wines priced well below their fellow Napa competitors, and these Napa Valley selections are no exception, a spectrum of ready-to-enjoy wines from outstanding California vintages, ranging from their opulent Carneros Chardonnay to a top-scoring Napa Cab described as "superb" by Antonio Galloni of Vinous, all delivering exceptional value. Working from 380 acres of estate vineyards in Carneros, Rutherford, and Capell Valley, long-time winemaker and GM Todd Graff employs the same barrel aging across the entire Napa line-up, utilizing a mix of one-third new French oak barrels with one-third once-used barrels and one-third twice-used barrels. Sourced from cooler climate vineyards in Carneros, the luscious 2023 Frank Family Vineyard Chardonnay balances rich, fragrant fruit and a creamy texture from lees stirring with bright acidity, while the aromatic 2022 Frank Family Pinot Noir reveals fresh, juicy fruit hinting of earthy spice with vibrant acidity on a satiny finish. The 2021 Frank Family Vineyard Zinfandel offers ripe, dark bramble fruit layered with pepper and spice from estate vineyards in Capell Valley and Rutherford, while the smooth and satisfying, 2022 Frank Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon contains well-integrated tannins that promise a decade of longevity. A range of deliciously appealing Napa Valley wines that over-deliver, these Frank Family Vineyards selections reflect Frank Family's trademark consistency and quality, guaranteed to please at a price that won't break the bank. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Durieu Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Lucile Avril (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Domaine Durieu has been one of our most successful and enduring direct-import relationships over the past several years, with the flagship Cuvée Lucile Avril reaching all-time best seller status at B-21. We recently tasted the 2022 with François Durieu earlier this year, and it more than met our expectations. Now, a brand new, glowing 97-point review from James Suckling's senior Rhône critic puts the exclamation point on another stunning rendition that picks up right where Durieu's previous showstoppers left off. "A great masterpiece of elegance and finesse." - Stuart Pigott, JamesSuckling.com "With medium to full body, a beautifully textured mouthfeel, and ripe tannins ... [it] brings a more classic, broad, textured profile," according to Jeb Dunnuck. In other words, the 2022 Lucile Avril is a crystal clear expression of Durieu's signature winemaking style, with an emphasis on balance and freshness (he uses no oak on any of his cuvées). It bears repeating, this wine is always one of our top-selling items in the category, so our legions of Durieu fans are in for a true classic that is, once again, one of the sharpest buys of the vintage at our domaine-direct pricing. | ||
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| 2022 Clos des Papes Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The Avril family, their renowned parcels planted adjacent to the ruins of the old papal towers in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, have been consistently bottling brilliant wines for decades. Among my very favorites – my personal collection spans multiple vintages – these are wines of unmistakable breed and character; a complete joy to experience. Originally established in the 18th century, their primary parcel is augmented by seventeen old vine plots throughout the appellation, adding further dimension to a wine already at the very highest levels of quality. Over the last few vintages, my notes indicate ever improved character. Paul-Vincent has bottled even more in a long line of rock stars. Draconian selections followed daily passes through each of his parcels, painstakingly clipping each vine for nothing but the very finest berries. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta Le Petit Clos (375ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sourced from the same vineyard as its iconic flagship cuvée, the 96-point 2022 Clos Apalta Le Petit Clos is a stellar, age-worthy second wine from the makers of Chile's legendary Clos Apalta and bargain priced at a fraction of the grand vin. First crafted in 2014 as a youthful, approachable expression of the Clos Apalta terroir, the Le Petit Clos is made from a mix of mostly younger vines planted in the granite soils of the estate's organically and biodynamically farmed El Condor vineyard, its unique microclimate in the shadow of the towering Cordillera Mountains creating optimal conditions for ripening Carménère while maintaining its freshness and acidity. The result is a beautifully balanced, harmonious blend with a rich, velvety texture and layered complexity structured for a decade or more of evolution. "So pleasing ... Layered and charming. Great freshness that leaves you wanting more with a lively and long finish." - Decanter The 96-point 2022 delivers what we've come to expect from this wine - "A deep, complex nose with multiple layers" and a "rich yet contained and elegant" palate that conveys its Carménère base with gorgeous varietal character and precision. If you're a fan of this wine, then 2022 is going to put a smile on your face. Or if you want to experience cult-caliber class from an iconic Chilean estate without breaking the bank, our sub-$40 price makes it as easy as can be. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta Le Petit Clos (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sourced from the same vineyard as its iconic flagship cuvée, the 96-point 2022 Clos Apalta Le Petit Clos is a stellar, age-worthy second wine from the makers of Chile's legendary Clos Apalta and bargain priced at a fraction of the grand vin. First crafted in 2014 as a youthful, approachable expression of the Clos Apalta terroir, the Le Petit Clos is made from a mix of mostly younger vines planted in the granite soils of the estate's organically and biodynamically farmed El Condor vineyard, its unique microclimate in the shadow of the towering Cordillera Mountains creating optimal conditions for ripening Carménère while maintaining its freshness and acidity. The result is a beautifully balanced, harmonious blend with a rich, velvety texture and layered complexity structured for a decade or more of evolution. "So pleasing ... Layered and charming. Great freshness that leaves you wanting more with a lively and long finish." - Decanter The 96-point 2022 delivers what we've come to expect from this wine - "A deep, complex nose with multiple layers" and a "rich yet contained and elegant" palate that conveys its Carménère base with gorgeous varietal character and precision. If you're a fan of this wine, then 2022 is going to put a smile on your face. Or if you want to experience cult-caliber class from an iconic Chilean estate without breaking the bank, our sub-$40 price makes it as easy as can be. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta Le Petit Clos (1.5L) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sourced from the same vineyard as its iconic flagship cuvée, the 96-point 2022 Clos Apalta Le Petit Clos is a stellar, age-worthy second wine from the makers of Chile's legendary Clos Apalta and bargain priced at a fraction of the grand vin. First crafted in 2014 as a youthful, approachable expression of the Clos Apalta terroir, the Le Petit Clos is made from a mix of mostly younger vines planted in the granite soils of the estate's organically and biodynamically farmed El Condor vineyard, its unique microclimate in the shadow of the towering Cordillera Mountains creating optimal conditions for ripening Carménère while maintaining its freshness and acidity. The result is a beautifully balanced, harmonious blend with a rich, velvety texture and layered complexity structured for a decade or more of evolution. "So pleasing ... Layered and charming. Great freshness that leaves you wanting more with a lively and long finish." - Decanter The 96-point 2022 delivers what we've come to expect from this wine - "A deep, complex nose with multiple layers" and a "rich yet contained and elegant" palate that conveys its Carménère base with gorgeous varietal character and precision. If you're a fan of this wine, then 2022 is going to put a smile on your face. Or if you want to experience cult-caliber class from an iconic Chilean estate without breaking the bank, our sub-$40 price makes it as easy as can be. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta (375ml) | ||
| Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The iconic Clos Apalta is arguably Chile's greatest wine, with a critical track record to rival even the First Growth Bordeaux titans. Previous vintages have notched multiple 100-point scores, nabbed Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year title, and accumulated pretty much every superlative and measure of praise you can think of in the world of fine wine, so it's no surprise to see the newly released 2022 grand vin flirt with perfection once again. "It's an absolutely sensational red from this team that comes close to topping out my scale." - Jeb Dunnuck This 99-point expression is further evidence that "Clos Apalta is one of those rare Chilean wines that reliably showcases the characteristics of each vintage while maintaining a consistent house style," as described by Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo. Indeed, the cool 2022 growing season produced a Clos that Jeb Dunnuck praises as "brilliantly balanced, seamless, medium to full-bodied red that has ultra-fine tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish." The wine's fresh, vineyard-expressive character melds beautifully with the estate's signature style developed over the years by famed Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland. The result is a delicious Bordeaux-inspired blend reflecting its exceptional Chilean terroir that promises savvy collectors over two decades of pleasurable drinking. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta (750ml) | ||
| Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The iconic Clos Apalta is arguably Chile's greatest wine, with a critical track record to rival even the First Growth Bordeaux titans. Previous vintages have notched multiple 100-point scores, nabbed Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year title, and accumulated pretty much every superlative and measure of praise you can think of in the world of fine wine, so it's no surprise to see the newly released 2022 grand vin flirt with perfection once again. "It's an absolutely sensational red from this team that comes close to topping out my scale." - Jeb Dunnuck This 99-point expression is further evidence that "Clos Apalta is one of those rare Chilean wines that reliably showcases the characteristics of each vintage while maintaining a consistent house style," as described by Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo. Indeed, the cool 2022 growing season produced a Clos that Jeb Dunnuck praises as "brilliantly balanced, seamless, medium to full-bodied red that has ultra-fine tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish." The wine's fresh, vineyard-expressive character melds beautifully with the estate's signature style developed over the years by famed Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland. The result is a delicious Bordeaux-inspired blend reflecting its exceptional Chilean terroir that promises savvy collectors over two decades of pleasurable drinking. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta (1.5L) | ||
| Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The iconic Clos Apalta is arguably Chile's greatest wine, with a critical track record to rival even the First Growth Bordeaux titans. Previous vintages have notched multiple 100-point scores, nabbed Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year title, and accumulated pretty much every superlative and measure of praise you can think of in the world of fine wine, so it's no surprise to see the newly released 2022 grand vin flirt with perfection once again. "It's an absolutely sensational red from this team that comes close to topping out my scale." - Jeb Dunnuck This 99-point expression is further evidence that "Clos Apalta is one of those rare Chilean wines that reliably showcases the characteristics of each vintage while maintaining a consistent house style," as described by Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo. Indeed, the cool 2022 growing season produced a Clos that Jeb Dunnuck praises as "brilliantly balanced, seamless, medium to full-bodied red that has ultra-fine tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish." The wine's fresh, vineyard-expressive character melds beautifully with the estate's signature style developed over the years by famed Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland. The result is a delicious Bordeaux-inspired blend reflecting its exceptional Chilean terroir that promises savvy collectors over two decades of pleasurable drinking. | ||
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| 2022 Clos Apalta (3L) | ||
| Carmenere from Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More The iconic Clos Apalta is arguably Chile's greatest wine, with a critical track record to rival even the First Growth Bordeaux titans. Previous vintages have notched multiple 100-point scores, nabbed Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year title, and accumulated pretty much every superlative and measure of praise you can think of in the world of fine wine, so it's no surprise to see the newly released 2022 grand vin flirt with perfection once again. "It's an absolutely sensational red from this team that comes close to topping out my scale." - Jeb Dunnuck This 99-point expression is further evidence that "Clos Apalta is one of those rare Chilean wines that reliably showcases the characteristics of each vintage while maintaining a consistent house style," as described by Vinous' Joaquin Hidalgo. Indeed, the cool 2022 growing season produced a Clos that Jeb Dunnuck praises as "brilliantly balanced, seamless, medium to full-bodied red that has ultra-fine tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish." The wine's fresh, vineyard-expressive character melds beautifully with the estate's signature style developed over the years by famed Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland. The result is a delicious Bordeaux-inspired blend reflecting its exceptional Chilean terroir that promises savvy collectors over two decades of pleasurable drinking. | ||
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| 2022 Chateau Prieure Lichine (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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