| 2023 Domaine Chavy-Chouet Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrieres (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Meursault, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...[Chavy] is making brilliant wines that transcend their status." - Neal Martin, Vinous We still can't believe our great fortune to have established Domaine Chavy-Chouet as a direct-import relationship last year, as the 2023s have proven to be incredibly smart buys that, as Neal Martin implies above, far outpace their price points across the board. The exceptional village-level crus from Meursault and Puligny are are top-class overachievers from Romaric Chavy, who "continues to impress" as noted by Burghound's Allen Meadows. The true quiet genius of Chavy, however, is readily on display in his range of benchmark-quality 1er crus. The "high-class Genevrières" leads the way in Jasper Morris' Inside Burgundy reviews, a 94-point expression of a hallowed terroir often seen on labels at twice this price. "Clean yet complex, with real intensity, this is a cut above," he declares of the equally stunning, 94-point 1er Cru Les Folatières from Puligny. For those seeking the vintage's best sleeper stars, look no further than the 93-point 1er Cru Murgers des Dents de Chien, a textbook rendition of a site that is gaining more and more collectible cachet with each passing vintage. In a market, where true values are rarely found at all points on the price spectrum, this range from Chavy-Chouet bucks the trend and delivers undeniable class and sophistication at unbeatable, domaine-direct pricing. | ||
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| 2021 Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More There's arguably no name more important to the history of Chianti Classico wine than Ricasoli. After all, it was one Bettino Ricasoli, an accomplished Italian statesman and baron, who first devised what would become the Chianti "recipe" in the mid-1800s. That is to say, he was the first to turn the region's focus to Sangiovese, where it has remained ever since. Now his descendant Francesco Ricasoli runs the family's iconic Castello di Brolio property from which the Chianti category was born, and he has done as much as anyone in guiding the Chianti Classico DOCG into its next era, one where quality and style are rigorously maintained through new rules for production and labeling. The most important of these new steps has been the establishment of the Gran Selezione classification and its attendant regional designations or UGAs. Ricasoli's estate vineyards provide some of the best qualitative expressions of the Gaiole UGA while exemplifying the visionary genius behind the new classification system. The 2021s take full advantage of this generational benchmark vintage, with a trio of critically acclaimed standouts. The 97-point Gaiole Colledila landed on last year's Wine Spectator Top 100 list. This cru is classic clay-limestone terroir for Sangiovese, resulting in a wine that "shows superb balance and grace, with the best yet to come." The Gaiole Ceniprimo, from sand and silt soils, takes on a fleshier fruit profile from its micro-climate, but the structured tannins suggest cellaring will be immensely beneficial. Finally, the WA97 Gaiole Roncicone "offers energy and a great sense of focus." More linear, refined, and reticent than its stablemates, this wine represents the new era of collectible Chianti Classico at its finest. As prices for Italy's most renowned collectible wines continue to rise, we expect the Gran Seleziones to take a big step forward in this space, thanks to their skyrocketing quality and relatively affordable prices, with iconic estates like Ricasoli leading the way. | ||
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| 2022 Chapelle St Theodoric La Guigasse (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Chapelle St. Theodoric might not be a household name on the greater Châteauneuf scene, but insiders and savvy collectors have long prized these wines as reference-point classics, and the professional press always seems to be on board with what's going on at this under-the-radar address. "Chapelle St. Theodoric is turning out some of the most compelling wines from Châteauneuf du Pape ... These are wines worth seeking out..." - Joe Czerwinski,Wine Advocate We've just secured our allocation of the remarkable 2022s, and once again they hit the trifecta — top critical acclaim, pristine Southern Rhône class and sophistication, and unbeatable pricing that you likely won't see anywhere else. Sourced from a miniscule plot within the Les Pignan lieu-dit, the 2022 Le Grand Pin is the quintessential expression of the St. Theodoric profile. Notching 96-98 points from Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski, it's full of classic garrigue character to go with pure, old-vine Grenache fruit and seamless structure. In short, "it's going to be brilliant," as Jeb Dunnuck declares. Likewise, its stablemate, the 2022 La Guigasse from sandy soils in the eponymous lieu-dit, comes in at a full 98 points from Decanter's Matt Walls, who dubs it "a very complete wine that's hard to fault, showing whole-bunch southern Rhône winemaking at its best." There's no denying the appeal of these two paragons of world-class, traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape. | ||
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| 2024 Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Mont Sec (750ml) | ||
| Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Domaine Huet remains a pillar of Vouvray and a touchstone for Chenin Blanc worldwide, a domaine where viticulture, philosophy and place converge in bottles of extraordinary clarity and longevity." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate The above quote from Yohan Castaing sums up almost everything you need to know about the magnificent wines of Domaine Huet. Sure, we could also mention that they have been a biodynamic pioneer since 1993, or that their wines age as well as almost any wines in the world, red or white. But at the end of the day, it's the singular character and class of the juice in the bottle that sets them apart from their contemporaries. The newly released, single-vineyard Sec bottlings from 2024 show why the domaine is a force to be reckoned with, not only in Vouvray, but anywhere in the Loire. Even in an exceedingly difficult vintage, this trio adds more glowing acclaim to add to the domaine's already full resumé, proving that Huet is still at the pinnacle. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. The iconic Clos du Bourg site produced "a lacy, seductive version, with impressive range," according to Wine Spectator, while John Gilman of View From the Cellar notes the 94-point Le Haut Lieu as "bright, focused and full-bodied, with a lovely core of fruit, excellent soil transparency and grip, a fine spine of acidity and lovely precision." Rounding out the 2024s, the WA93 Le Mont rounds out the 2024s is "both dense and lively ... a crystalline expression of Vouvray." Finally, don't miss a pair of stellar 2022 Moelleux expressions, led by the monumental, 97-point Clos du Bourg 1ère Trie. "Long, precise and seamless, this is a standout cuvée and one of the highlights of the vintage at this storied address," declares Castaing. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. | ||
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| 2023 Quinta Nova Unoaked Tinto (750ml) | ||
| Touriga Nacional from Douro, Portugal | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More While Portugal's Douro Valley is obviously most famous its fortified port wines, the number of estates gaining serious attention for their dry whites and reds is growing with every vintage, and you can add Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo (or "Quinta Nova" for short) to that list. This historic property is arguably one of the most visually dramatic places in the wine world (something that can be said for pretty much all of the Douro Valley), and their ancient, terraced vineyard blocks are home to approximately 130 massale selected vine species, rigorously documented, nursed, and cultivated from the estate's original vines planted over 200 years ago. Now under the direction of the Amorim family, the estate has seen a resurgence in investment over the past two decades, which has brought their wines up to a next-level quality and garnered the accompanying critical recognition. This set of new arrivals is highlighted by the 2023 Reserva Terroir Red, a 92-point blend of Douro's most famous red grapes that showcases the classic winemaking and style of this famed region. The estate also hits the collectible sphere with impressive results both white and red. The 2023 Mirabilis Branco is a true field blend, composed of several varietals of very old vines, all co-planted in a handful of small plots. James Suckling and Luis Gutierrez both make Burgundian comparisons to this singular white wine with a "showy, large nose and personality." Finally, don't miss the "exceptional," 97-point 2019 Centenaria Referencia P29/P21. As the name implies, it's crafted from 100-year-old vines, mainly Touriga Nacional. "Wonderfully expressive, the fruit here is special," notes Wine Advocate's Mark Squires, "The wine is seductive rather than astringent. Perfect balance completes the picture here." With winners in every price point and quality tier, Quinta Nova is a sure bet for long-time Portugal fans and novices alike to explore the unparalleled variety and style of this historic wine region. | ||
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| 2019 Alban Vineyards Syrah Reva (750ml) | ||
| Syrah from Edna Valley, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "John Alban is a pioneer through and through, having spearheaded the Rhône Ranger movement and set into motion what would become some of the Central Coast's most sought-after bottlings." - Wine Advocate Fans of cult-calber California Rhône wines need no introduction to this iconic estate, as Alban has long been the standard bearer for the pinnacle of what these varietals can achieve in California's Central Coast. A glowing critical track record a mile long points to some of the Golden State's most inimitable bottlings, and John Alban's style is the benchmark by which many other producers judge their own work. As Jeb Dunnuck remarks, "I don't think anyone is doing Rhône varieties better." Leading off this limited-quantity opportunity, the estate's flagship 2021 Patrina is "a terrific introduction to the wines of this incredible estate" thanks to its "a classic, seamless, incredibly impressive style" according to Dunnuck. Showcasing the estate's world-class single-vineyard Syrahs, the double 98-point 2019 Reva is a showpiece of jaw-dropping class, "breathtaking in youth but certain to develop further complexity," as described by Decanter. Likewise, Dunnuck calls the 99-point 2019 Lorraine "ultra-classic ... a full-bodied, round, velvety textured, utterly seamless Syrah with ripe tannins, a great mid-palate, and a gorgeous finish that keeps you coming back to the glass." Finally, the newly arrived 2020 Seymour's Syrah is "magical stuff ... a heavenly bottle of wine that will most likely merit a triple-digit rating in 4-6 years." Fans of the estate will once again be over the moon for the latest renditions, but anyone who's a fan of the very best offerings from California should jump at the chance to experience these singular expressions, especially at our razor-sharp, market-leading pricing. | ||
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| 2024 Kelley Fox Gruner Veltliner (750ml) | ||
| Gruner Veltliner 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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| 2023 Domaine Chavy-Chouet St. Aubin 1er Cru Murgers des Dents de Chien (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Saint-Aubin, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "...[Chavy] is making brilliant wines that transcend their status." - Neal Martin, Vinous We still can't believe our great fortune to have established Domaine Chavy-Chouet as a direct-import relationship last year, as the 2023s have proven to be incredibly smart buys that, as Neal Martin implies above, far outpace their price points across the board. The exceptional village-level crus from Meursault and Puligny are are top-class overachievers from Romaric Chavy, who "continues to impress" as noted by Burghound's Allen Meadows. The true quiet genius of Chavy, however, is readily on display in his range of benchmark-quality 1er crus. The "high-class Genevrières" leads the way in Jasper Morris' Inside Burgundy reviews, a 94-point expression of a hallowed terroir often seen on labels at twice this price. "Clean yet complex, with real intensity, this is a cut above," he declares of the equally stunning, 94-point 1er Cru Les Folatières from Puligny. For those seeking the vintage's best sleeper stars, look no further than the 93-point 1er Cru Murgers des Dents de Chien, a textbook rendition of a site that is gaining more and more collectible cachet with each passing vintage. In a market, where true values are rarely found at all points on the price spectrum, this range from Chavy-Chouet bucks the trend and delivers undeniable class and sophistication at unbeatable, domaine-direct pricing. | ||
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| 2024 Jean-Marc Burgaud Morgon Chollet (750ml) | ||
| Gamay from Morgon, Beaujolais, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "In my mind, and according to my palate for that matter, Jean-Marc Burgaud is the don of Morgon. His wines achieve the highest levels and have an unerring propensity to repay cellaring." - Neal Martin, Vinous Earlier this year we solidified a domaine-direct relationship with a true Beaujolais icon, and now the "first fruits" of this new relationship have just landed in stock. Dubbed "a winemaker at the peak of his powers" by William Kelley, Jean-Marc Burgaud is unquestionably among the elite in Beaujolais, and his wines are roundly coveted by fans and collectors, yet they remain some of the sharpest QPR buys in all of France. Over the years, Jean-Marc has undergone quite the transformation in his winemaking technique, resulting in the benchmark expressions we know and love today. He's an ardent proponent of Morgon's exceptional individual terroirs, and his classic, semi-carbonic winemaking aims to express each parcel to its fullest. The highlight of the range, Burgaud's Cote du Py James is his perennial magnum opus, sourced from a parcel at the very top of the appellation's most iconic lieu-dit. "The 2022 Morgon Côte du Py James, succulent and complex, is one of the best showings for the vintage for this famous lieu-dit," notes Wine Advocate. Not as well-known but every bit as compelling is the 2022 Côte du Py Javernieres, a JS95 insider's favorite that isn't often seen in the U.S. market. We're also thrilled to present a trio of Burgaud's newly released 2024s, each one a superb expression of its Morgon terroir and a benchmark example of one the region's greatest winemaking talents. We'll say it again – we couldn't be more thrilled with this new partnership because our direct access to Jean-Marc's cellars brings the benchmark gems to us at jaw-dropping pricing that you won't see anywhere else. | ||
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| 2023 Kelley Fox Pinot Noir Shafer Vineyard (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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| 2024 Domaine Huet Vouvray Clos du Bourg Sec (750ml) | ||
| Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Domaine Huet remains a pillar of Vouvray and a touchstone for Chenin Blanc worldwide, a domaine where viticulture, philosophy and place converge in bottles of extraordinary clarity and longevity." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate The above quote from Yohan Castaing sums up almost everything you need to know about the magnificent wines of Domaine Huet. Sure, we could also mention that they have been a biodynamic pioneer since 1993, or that their wines age as well as almost any wines in the world, red or white. But at the end of the day, it's the singular character and class of the juice in the bottle that sets them apart from their contemporaries. The newly released, single-vineyard Sec bottlings from 2024 show why the domaine is a force to be reckoned with, not only in Vouvray, but anywhere in the Loire. Even in an exceedingly difficult vintage, this trio adds more glowing acclaim to add to the domaine's already full resumé, proving that Huet is still at the pinnacle. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. The iconic Clos du Bourg site produced "a lacy, seductive version, with impressive range," according to Wine Spectator, while John Gilman of View From the Cellar notes the 94-point Le Haut Lieu as "bright, focused and full-bodied, with a lovely core of fruit, excellent soil transparency and grip, a fine spine of acidity and lovely precision." Rounding out the 2024s, the WA93 Le Mont rounds out the 2024s is "both dense and lively ... a crystalline expression of Vouvray." Finally, don't miss a pair of stellar 2022 Moelleux expressions, led by the monumental, 97-point Clos du Bourg 1ère Trie. "Long, precise and seamless, this is a standout cuvée and one of the highlights of the vintage at this storied address," declares Castaing. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. | ||
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| 2022 Chapelle St Theodoric Le Grand Pin (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Chapelle St. Theodoric might not be a household name on the greater Châteauneuf scene, but insiders and savvy collectors have long prized these wines as reference-point classics, and the professional press always seems to be on board with what's going on at this under-the-radar address. "Chapelle St. Theodoric is turning out some of the most compelling wines from Châteauneuf du Pape ... These are wines worth seeking out..." - Joe Czerwinski,Wine Advocate We've just secured our allocation of the remarkable 2022s, and once again they hit the trifecta — top critical acclaim, pristine Southern Rhône class and sophistication, and unbeatable pricing that you likely won't see anywhere else. Sourced from a miniscule plot within the Les Pignan lieu-dit, the 2022 Le Grand Pin is the quintessential expression of the St. Theodoric profile. Notching 96-98 points from Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski, it's full of classic garrigue character to go with pure, old-vine Grenache fruit and seamless structure. In short, "it's going to be brilliant," as Jeb Dunnuck declares. Likewise, its stablemate, the 2022 La Guigasse from sandy soils in the eponymous lieu-dit, comes in at a full 98 points from Decanter's Matt Walls, who dubs it "a very complete wine that's hard to fault, showing whole-bunch southern Rhône winemaking at its best." There's no denying the appeal of these two paragons of world-class, traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape. | ||
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| 2024 Jean-Marc Burgaud Morgon La Roche (750ml) | ||
| Gamay from Morgon, Beaujolais, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "In my mind, and according to my palate for that matter, Jean-Marc Burgaud is the don of Morgon. His wines achieve the highest levels and have an unerring propensity to repay cellaring." - Neal Martin, Vinous Earlier this year we solidified a domaine-direct relationship with a true Beaujolais icon, and now the "first fruits" of this new relationship have just landed in stock. Dubbed "a winemaker at the peak of his powers" by William Kelley, Jean-Marc Burgaud is unquestionably among the elite in Beaujolais, and his wines are roundly coveted by fans and collectors, yet they remain some of the sharpest QPR buys in all of France. Over the years, Jean-Marc has undergone quite the transformation in his winemaking technique, resulting in the benchmark expressions we know and love today. He's an ardent proponent of Morgon's exceptional individual terroirs, and his classic, semi-carbonic winemaking aims to express each parcel to its fullest. The highlight of the range, Burgaud's Cote du Py James is his perennial magnum opus, sourced from a parcel at the very top of the appellation's most iconic lieu-dit. "The 2022 Morgon Côte du Py James, succulent and complex, is one of the best showings for the vintage for this famous lieu-dit," notes Wine Advocate. Not as well-known but every bit as compelling is the 2022 Côte du Py Javernieres, a JS95 insider's favorite that isn't often seen in the U.S. market. We're also thrilled to present a trio of Burgaud's newly released 2024s, each one a superb expression of its Morgon terroir and a benchmark example of one the region's greatest winemaking talents. We'll say it again – we couldn't be more thrilled with this new partnership because our direct access to Jean-Marc's cellars brings the benchmark gems to us at jaw-dropping pricing that you won't see anywhere else. | ||
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| 2021 Thibaud Boudignon Savennieres Clos de la Hutte (750ml) | ||
| Chenin Blanc from Savennieres, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "[Boudignon's] attention to detail in the winemaking process, precise viticulture, dedication and passion for the terroirs mark him as one of France's foremost vignerons and winemakers today." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate Few winemakers have achieved such rapid ascent to cult status in the past two decades as Thibaud Boudignon. Once the long-time winemaker at Domaine de la Soucherie set out on his own, the critical and collectible aficionados took quick notice of his utterly uncompromising style and craftsmanship, and demand has been on an upward trajectory ever since. It's rare to find Boudignon's wines in any meaningful quantity, so tight are the allocations relative to their fanbase, so any time we get a chance at a parcel, especially at jaw-dropping pricing such as this, we jump at it without a second thought. We just landed a small parcel of the newly released 2023 Clos Fremine, which will undoubtedly rack up future critical acclaim like every previous vintage, while a pair of 97-point renditions of the tête de cuvée Clos de la Hutte demonstrate clearly why Yohan Castaing declares, "[Boudignon] offers wines of purity, tension and finesse with virtually no rivals in Savennières." Showstopping terroir clarity and the potential for decades of cellar evolution put this line-up firmly in the company of France's savviest cellar-worthy white wine buys, but as you might guess, our quantities are very limited, so collectors would be wise to strike quickly at this opportunity. | ||
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| 2024 Kelley Fox Willamette Valley Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay 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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| NV Fallet Dart Les Hauts Clos du Mont Extra Brut (2006) Disgorgement Apr 2023 (750ml) | ||
| Sparkling from Champagne, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A new addition to our direct-import program, Fallet-Dart should be better known than they are, and they would be if they weren't located all the way out at the western end of the Marne Valley in Drachy. Their vineyards are exceptional, and their use of extended sur lie aging adds dimension and depth to their wines that we don't often see in this part of Champagne. "The Eocene offers further proof that Fallet-Dart is an unsung reference-point for late-disgorgement Champagnes of uncompromising class and value." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Champagne Buyer Fallet-Dart's Eocene is named for the geologic era that formed the ancient soils of the La Niclotte vineyard. Made entirely from the 2009 vintage, bottled in 2010, and disgorged in March of this year, the Eocene is every bit the classic late-disgorgement expression. The ripeness of the vintage and the 20% Pinot Noir component give the wine its world-class depth of fruit, but the vineyard's soils and the light dosage (only 2g/L) endow it with absolutely shimmering vinous intensity and mineral vibrance. The lifted, high-toned flavor and aroma profiles offer a fascinating counterpoint to the Clos du Mont's more mature and evolved character (even though this wine spent fifteen years on the lees itself!). Who knew that we'd have to go all the way out to the western end of the Marne Valley to find one of the most compelling Champagnes we've come across in a long time? Hyperbole? Maybe. But once you dive into the specs on the Fallet-Dart Les Hauts Clos du Mont, you'll see where we're coming from. "...a flat-out stunning new addition to our direct-import stable, and arguably the savviest collectible Champagne buy we've brought on board in a long time." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Champagne Buyer Fallet-Dart's prized vineyard, from which this wine comes, sits on a bend of the Marne River with perfect southeast exposition, having been under vine for over a thousand years. The Les Hauts Clos du Mont hails entirely from the now-legendary 2006 vintage and is a masterclass in oak vinification and sur lie aging. As indicated on the label, it was bottled in 2007 and has spent nearly 17 years on the lees! A wine of "head-spinning complexity" as Andrew describes it, this is luxury Champagne at its best, at a price that defies all market conditions and factors. As Andrew succinctly puts it, "If you're a fan of Bollinger's RD, set that one aside and buy three bottles of this for the same price – you won't be disappointed." Avid collectors and Champagne fans should have no shortage of fun comparing these two benchmark beauties in the years to come. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Huet Vouvray Clos du Bourg Moelleux 1ere Trie (750ml) | ||
| Chenin Blanc from Vouvray Moelleux, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Domaine Huet remains a pillar of Vouvray and a touchstone for Chenin Blanc worldwide, a domaine where viticulture, philosophy and place converge in bottles of extraordinary clarity and longevity." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate The above quote from Yohan Castaing sums up almost everything you need to know about the magnificent wines of Domaine Huet. Sure, we could also mention that they have been a biodynamic pioneer since 1993, or that their wines age as well as almost any wines in the world, red or white. But at the end of the day, it's the singular character and class of the juice in the bottle that sets them apart from their contemporaries. The newly released, single-vineyard Sec bottlings from 2024 show why the domaine is a force to be reckoned with, not only in Vouvray, but anywhere in the Loire. Even in an exceedingly difficult vintage, this trio adds more glowing acclaim to add to the domaine's already full resumé, proving that Huet is still at the pinnacle. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. The iconic Clos du Bourg site produced "a lacy, seductive version, with impressive range," according to Wine Spectator, while John Gilman of View From the Cellar notes the 94-point Le Haut Lieu as "bright, focused and full-bodied, with a lovely core of fruit, excellent soil transparency and grip, a fine spine of acidity and lovely precision." Rounding out the 2024s, the WA93 Le Mont rounds out the 2024s is "both dense and lively ... a crystalline expression of Vouvray." Finally, don't miss a pair of stellar 2022 Moelleux expressions, led by the monumental, 97-point Clos du Bourg 1ère Trie. "Long, precise and seamless, this is a standout cuvée and one of the highlights of the vintage at this storied address," declares Castaing. Our parcel comes in at razor-sharp pricing that puts the already spectacular cellar appeal of these gems in even brighter light, so avid Loire enthusiasts or any collector of world-class, reference-point wines can take their collections up a notch or two. | ||
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| 2001 Leoville Las Cases (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Château Léoville Las Cases is one of the greatest and most consistent estates of Bordeaux..." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate Here's a rare opportunity to secure a trove of all-time great library vintages from the legendary Château Léoville Las-Cases, long considered 'first among the Super-Seconds' of Bordeaux with a reputation for First Growth quality. Now offered at best-in-market pricing, these monumental classics will evolve for decades to come, some already aged 40 years in pristine cellar conditions, all garnering 95-point ratings or higher, including multiple 100-point trophies. Bordering First Growth Latour on the northern end of St-Julien overlooking the Gironde and managed by the Delon family since the late 19th century, the 98 hectares of Las Cases vineyards are planted in a single block encompassing a mosaic of terroirs, surrounded by walls known as the Grand Clos. In other words, it's the ideal terroir for producing immortal claret. Leading with the timeless classicism of the 1990, this vertical comprises the very pinnacle of Las Cases in the modern era. The most coveted vintages of the 21st century, including perfect renditions from 2010, 2016, and 2018, highlight the undeniable greatness of the estate's contemporary track record. These are all outstanding choices that stand tall next to their First Growth neighbor at a fraction of the price, offering the perfect opportunity to take any world-class collection to the next level. Echoing a sports analogy, the Léoville-Las Cases bench is deep, and with only homerun hitters in the rotation, any and all of them are guaranteed to knock it out of the park. | ||
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| 2019 Leoville Las Cases (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Château Léoville Las Cases is one of the greatest and most consistent estates of Bordeaux..." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate Here's a rare opportunity to secure a trove of all-time great library vintages from the legendary Château Léoville Las-Cases, long considered 'first among the Super-Seconds' of Bordeaux with a reputation for First Growth quality. Now offered at best-in-market pricing, these monumental classics will evolve for decades to come, some already aged 40 years in pristine cellar conditions, all garnering 95-point ratings or higher, including multiple 100-point trophies. Bordering First Growth Latour on the northern end of St-Julien overlooking the Gironde and managed by the Delon family since the late 19th century, the 98 hectares of Las Cases vineyards are planted in a single block encompassing a mosaic of terroirs, surrounded by walls known as the Grand Clos. In other words, it's the ideal terroir for producing immortal claret. Leading with the timeless classicism of the 1990, this vertical comprises the very pinnacle of Las Cases in the modern era. The most coveted vintages of the 21st century, including perfect renditions from 2010, 2016, and 2018, highlight the undeniable greatness of the estate's contemporary track record. These are all outstanding choices that stand tall next to their First Growth neighbor at a fraction of the price, offering the perfect opportunity to take any world-class collection to the next level. Echoing a sports analogy, the Léoville-Las Cases bench is deep, and with only homerun hitters in the rotation, any and all of them are guaranteed to knock it out of the park. | ||
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| 2021 Massolino Barbaresco Albesani (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The 2021s are marvelously complete wines that offer a captivating mix of energy, structure, depth and plenty of site character." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous To paraphrase Mark Twain's infamous quip about good whiskey, too much great wine is not enough, and we still can't get enough of Barbaresco's epic 2021 vintage. Ever since these wines began to hit the market, they've delivered on the early praise that was heaped on them by critics across the board. There's obviously no shortage of spectacular buys in this vintage, but that breadth of choice can often make selection daunting, so we've hand-picked some of our absolute favorites get you going in this reference-point campaign. Massolino shines with a pair of superb offerings in their "super-classic" village bottling and their triple 95-point Albesani single cru. Produttori's 2021 village bottling is once again one of the steals of the vintage. With 95+ points from Wine Advocate, it's a "a classical expression of Nebbiolo that gives us good reason to be excited for the upcoming 2021 Barbaresco Riservas." Next up, the 2021 Fontanabianca Bordini is a no-brainer, razor-sharp buy for Piedmont collectors looking to maximize their collectible bang for the buck, a "stunning ,,, utterly delicious" offering with glowing accolades from several critics, led by Kerin O'Keefe's 96 points and 95 points from Larner. Finally, don't miss the single-cru sleeper stars from Albino Rocca and Giuseppe Cortese. "This vivid, sculpted Barbaresco is hugely promising," writes Galloni in his 95-point review of Rocca's 2021 Ronchi. He likewise praises Cortese's 2021 rendition of the iconic Rabaja cru as "complex, dynamic and youthfully austere—in other words, it's classic Rabajà ... a drop-dead gorgeous beauty." No matter which way you turn, it seems Barbaresco's 2021 vintage is knocking it out of the park, and our market-leading pricing on these fan favorites and collectible hits provides you ample opportunity to stock the cellar full for the next couple of decades. | ||
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| 2022 Passing Time Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Walla Walla, Washington State | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Passing Time is a serious contender in the fine wine scene of Washington State ... I’ll certainly keep my eye on how this project progresses." - Eric Guido, Vinous Today's offer is a special one for our Florida family. While you may or may not have heard of Passing Time, a thrilling new player in boutique Washington Cabernet that's making huge waves in the critical press, you no doubt know the founder, legendary Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. Working with acclaimed winemaker Chris Peterson from several of the state's most prized vineyards (including Champoux, Klipsun, and Wallula), this project is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. Having recently tasted the entire range of 2022s ourselves, we can wholeheartedly stand behind the raft of monster scores and impressive accolades that follow these wines. Starting off, the JD94 Red Blend is "an impressive wine at any price point but offers outstanding value" at our sub-$60 price. However, it's the appellation-specific bottlings that truly steal the show, each one a quintessential representation of its origins. The "impeccably structured and detailed" 2022 Red Mountain Cabernet is arguably the cream of the crop (but we're really just splitting hairs, as they're all so compelling). It positively "vibrates with energetic red and black fruit flavors, supported by fine-grained tannins and a lively line, finishing long and shimmery," according to Lisa Perrotti-Brown. If you after something that reminds you "a touch of Château Montrose in Saint-Estèphe," don't miss the Horse Heaven Hills Cab. This double 97-point Left Bank lookalike is perfectly poised to cruise for decades in the cellar. Finally, the double 97-point Walla Walla Cabernet draws from two iconic sites, Seven Hills and Pepper Bridge, to deliver "a rock-solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness to match the vivacious, muscular black fruit, finishing long and fragrant." It's rare to find a range in which each wine showcases such stunning class and sophistication in its own particular way, but Passing Time is well on the way to distinguishing itself as one of the most exciting new names in collectible Cabernet, and you'll be thrilled to have any and all of these standout performers in your cellar for decades to come, especially at our unbeatable market-best pricing. | ||
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| 2019 Quinta Nova Vinha Centenaria Referencia P29/P21 Red (750ml) | ||
| Touriga Nacional from Douro, Portugal | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More While Portugal's Douro Valley is obviously most famous its fortified port wines, the number of estates gaining serious attention for their dry whites and reds is growing with every vintage, and you can add Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo (or "Quinta Nova" for short) to that list. This historic property is arguably one of the most visually dramatic places in the wine world (something that can be said for pretty much all of the Douro Valley), and their ancient, terraced vineyard blocks are home to approximately 130 massale selected vine species, rigorously documented, nursed, and cultivated from the estate's original vines planted over 200 years ago. Now under the direction of the Amorim family, the estate has seen a resurgence in investment over the past two decades, which has brought their wines up to a next-level quality and garnered the accompanying critical recognition. This set of new arrivals is highlighted by the 2023 Reserva Terroir Red, a 92-point blend of Douro's most famous red grapes that showcases the classic winemaking and style of this famed region. The estate also hits the collectible sphere with impressive results both white and red. The 2023 Mirabilis Branco is a true field blend, composed of several varietals of very old vines, all co-planted in a handful of small plots. James Suckling and Luis Gutierrez both make Burgundian comparisons to this singular white wine with a "showy, large nose and personality." Finally, don't miss the "exceptional," 97-point 2019 Centenaria Referencia P29/P21. As the name implies, it's crafted from 100-year-old vines, mainly Touriga Nacional. "Wonderfully expressive, the fruit here is special," notes Wine Advocate's Mark Squires, "The wine is seductive rather than astringent. Perfect balance completes the picture here." With winners in every price point and quality tier, Quinta Nova is a sure bet for long-time Portugal fans and novices alike to explore the unparalleled variety and style of this historic wine region. | ||
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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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| 2022 Chateau Lynch-Bages (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, 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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| 2012 Chateau Leoville Poyferre (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Sourced from over 80 hectares of estate vineyards in some of St. Julien's best terroir, these exceptional vintages from Chateau Leoville-Poyferre boast Cabernet's Sauvignon's expressive dark fruit with elegant textured minerality and smooth, silky tannins, all luxurious, balanced Left Bank Bordeaux blends earning 94 plus point ratings and delivered ex-Chateau in perfect provenance at impressive value pricing. While dating back to 1638, Chateau Leoville-Poyferre's modern renaissance began in 1979, when Didier Cuvelier became the first member of his family to take charge of the estate after studying winemaking under the legendary Emile Peynaud. Implementing an extensive renovation of the vineyards with massive replanting and nearly doubling the estate's holdings, Didier hired renowned consultant Michel Rolland to manage the harvest and refine the final blend, shifting the estate's emphasis to Cabernet Sauvignon and crafting the Grand Vin in a richer, more opulent style by harvesting later to ensure even ripening. Revisiting it at a retrospective tasting in 2021, James Suckling describes the full-bodied 100 pt. 2009 Leoville-Poyferre as "A red that gives wonderful pleasure now but will continue to do so for decades ahead." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni calls the 95 pt. 2014 Leoville-Poyferre "Gorgeous" and "Super impressive" while Jeb Dunnuck describes the 97 pt. 2015 Leoville-Poyferre as an "unctuous, ripe, pedal-to-the-metal beauty." Dunnuck calls the 98 pt. 2016 Leoville-Poyferre a "brilliantly concentrated, full-bodied, opulent beast of a wine," while the Wine Advocate's Lisa Perrotti-Brown describes it as "simply alive in the mouth, culminating in an epically long finish that will leave your mouth practically tingling. WOW!" James Suckling calls the "serious" 95 pt. 2017 Leoville-Poyferre "one of the best of the appellation" while the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss named both the 2017 and 2018 Cellar Selections built for the long haul. Finally, the "legendary" 100 pt. 2018 Leoville-Poyferre is a "a total thrill that tops my scale" according to critic Jeb Dunnuck while Antonio Galloni declares the perfect 2018 "dazzles from start to finish," earning it the #7 spot on the Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2021. All poised to reward Bordeaux lovers for decades to come, these perfectly cellared, top releases from Second Growth Chateau Leoville-Poyferre delivers powerfully concentrated fruit of exceptional depth and length with rich, ripe tannins, now offered at specially negotiated pricing, some ready to enjoy and all set to evolve in the cellar. After a recent retrospective tasting over the last two decades, Vinous critic Neal Martin summed it up: "Leoville-Poyferre has really taken flight" often "challenging the First Growths" and now offered in perfect condition at a fraction of the price. | ||
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| 2022 Jean-Marc Burgaud Morgon Cote du Py Javernieres (750ml) | ||
| Gamay from Morgon, Beaujolais, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "In my mind, and according to my palate for that matter, Jean-Marc Burgaud is the don of Morgon. His wines achieve the highest levels and have an unerring propensity to repay cellaring." - Neal Martin, Vinous Earlier this year we solidified a domaine-direct relationship with a true Beaujolais icon, and now the "first fruits" of this new relationship have just landed in stock. Dubbed "a winemaker at the peak of his powers" by William Kelley, Jean-Marc Burgaud is unquestionably among the elite in Beaujolais, and his wines are roundly coveted by fans and collectors, yet they remain some of the sharpest QPR buys in all of France. Over the years, Jean-Marc has undergone quite the transformation in his winemaking technique, resulting in the benchmark expressions we know and love today. He's an ardent proponent of Morgon's exceptional individual terroirs, and his classic, semi-carbonic winemaking aims to express each parcel to its fullest. The highlight of the range, Burgaud's Cote du Py James is his perennial magnum opus, sourced from a parcel at the very top of the appellation's most iconic lieu-dit. "The 2022 Morgon Côte du Py James, succulent and complex, is one of the best showings for the vintage for this famous lieu-dit," notes Wine Advocate. Not as well-known but every bit as compelling is the 2022 Côte du Py Javernieres, a JS95 insider's favorite that isn't often seen in the U.S. market. We're also thrilled to present a trio of Burgaud's newly released 2024s, each one a superb expression of its Morgon terroir and a benchmark example of one the region's greatest winemaking talents. We'll say it again – we couldn't be more thrilled with this new partnership because our direct access to Jean-Marc's cellars brings the benchmark gems to us at jaw-dropping pricing that you won't see anywhere else. | ||
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| Signatory 2013 Linkwood 11yr 2nd Fill Oloroso Sherry Butt Single Malt Scotch | ||
| From Pitlochry, Highlands, Scotland | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "If you’re a fan of Linkwood, you’ll love this take on the distillery’s hallmark style." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer The Speyside faithful go head over heels for Linkwood, but finding a top-quality example on the market is always a stroke of luck. Just 2% of the distillery's production is bottled on its own, with the vast majority of the production playing a crucial part in Diageo's flagship blends like Johnnie Walker. That would partially explain why we see a heavy interest in our offers on this distillery in particular. There's simply nothing else like Linkwood. While our previous versions were either in ex-bourbon or brand new hogshead, our latest cask from independent stalwart Signatory gets back to the sherried Linkwood style that many fans are most familiar with. This 11-year-old gem is a second-fill oloroso butt, an ideal accompaniment to the Linkwood profile, as those who've had it from a first-fill butt know that this type of cask can sometimes overpower the malt's signature character. Instead, this one offers an aromatic profile that perfectly displays "the tension between the whisky and the butt, with characteristics of both showing up in real harmony," as Andrew notes. Surprisingly round and textured for a young whisky, it's "extremely well balanced with no heat or rough edges whatsoever, fanning out in broad, even waves across the entire palate." For fans of Speyside, Linkwood specifically, or just any great single malt of individual character, this cask is a bona fide winner and an easy choice at our razor-sharp price. | ||
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| 5 Sentidos Sierra Negra Mezcal (750ml) | ||
| From Oaxaca, Mexico | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you're a mezcal fan or collector and you haven't jumped on board with Cinco Sentidos yet, you're missing out on some of the most compelling, artfully crafted offerings in the category. The brainchild of American Jason Cox, the project began as a collection of house mezcals selected for his upstart Oaxaca restaurant El Destilado. This transplant with an insatiable thirst for artisan agave spirits spent countless hours and miles traversing Oaxaca and its surrounding environs, scouting out the best artisan mezcal producers no one had yet heard of. We're talking true family operations that run on sweat and calloused hands and that produce stunningly complex, singular expressions you won't find anywhere else. Today, the Cinco Sentidos range offers a dizzying array of options and styles, and the two on offer here are just a glimpse of the full spectrum, but once you get a hold of them, you'll find yourself diving into the deep end. The Arroqueño from Pédro Hernandez is a masterpiece of clay-pot distillation, "a pure, handcrafted beauty and a reference-point for its style and varietal." This huge agave species is rarely cultivated due to its extremely long maturation period of 20+ years, so it's somewhat of a unicorn on the mezcal scene, and in the hands of a true maestro like Tio Pédro, it reaches its apex. The Sierra Negra is equally singular, both in terms of rarity and character. Maestro Alberto Martinez knocks it out of the park with this rare agave species in an expression that communicates its origins like only the very finest mezcals can. As B-21 Spirits Buyer Andrew Kitz writes, "It’s arguably the most distinctive expression in the Cinco Sentidos line ... Any chance you have to get your hands on it, jump at it and don’t think twice." If you're already familiar with Cinco Sentidos, you'll no doubt want to add these gems to your shelf at home, and if you haven't discovered them yet, this pair is the perfect introduction to the top-tier craftsmanship that goes into all of Jason Cox's selections. | ||
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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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| 2018 Leoville Las Cases (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Château Léoville Las Cases is one of the greatest and most consistent estates of Bordeaux..." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate Here's a rare opportunity to secure a trove of all-time great library vintages from the legendary Château Léoville Las-Cases, long considered 'first among the Super-Seconds' of Bordeaux with a reputation for First Growth quality. Now offered at best-in-market pricing, these monumental classics will evolve for decades to come, some already aged 40 years in pristine cellar conditions, all garnering 95-point ratings or higher, including multiple 100-point trophies. Bordering First Growth Latour on the northern end of St-Julien overlooking the Gironde and managed by the Delon family since the late 19th century, the 98 hectares of Las Cases vineyards are planted in a single block encompassing a mosaic of terroirs, surrounded by walls known as the Grand Clos. In other words, it's the ideal terroir for producing immortal claret. Leading with the timeless classicism of the 1990, this vertical comprises the very pinnacle of Las Cases in the modern era. The most coveted vintages of the 21st century, including perfect renditions from 2010, 2016, and 2018, highlight the undeniable greatness of the estate's contemporary track record. These are all outstanding choices that stand tall next to their First Growth neighbor at a fraction of the price, offering the perfect opportunity to take any world-class collection to the next level. Echoing a sports analogy, the Léoville-Las Cases bench is deep, and with only homerun hitters in the rotation, any and all of them are guaranteed to knock it out of the park. | ||
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