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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 Today is a special re-load/new release 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 Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos St-Theobald Grand Cru is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of density and mineral energy. Finally, the newly released, 94-point 2023 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, resulting in "a beautifully textured and structured Gewurztraminer with delicate acidity and serious structure." 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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| 2023 Schoffit Gewurztraminer Harth Cuvee Caroline (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 Today is a special re-load/new release 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 Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos St-Theobald Grand Cru is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of density and mineral energy. Finally, the newly released, 94-point 2023 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, resulting in "a beautifully textured and structured Gewurztraminer with delicate acidity and serious structure." 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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| Holmes Cay Heritage Blend Rum (750ml) | ||
| From Barbados | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Eric Kaye's Holmes Cay rum range is a bona fide treasure trove for hardcore tiki heads and collectors, as he sources some of the most compelling single cask expressions on the market, with access to seemingly all of the rum world's finest distilleries and stocks. So, it's no wonder that the Holmes Cay core range features some of the sharpest quality-to-price buys in the category, particularly the 96-point Heritage Blend. It's a marvelous ode to the stylistic variety of Caribbean rum. Part molasses distillate from Venezuela and Foursquare in Barbados, and part rhum agricole (cane juice) from Martinique, the Heritage blend offers clear characteristics of each style in utterly charming fashion. "Complex aromas" and a "mouthwatering palate" culminate in a "notably long" finish that led Wine Enthusiast's Kara Newman to tag it as Best Buy along with her glowing score. At a price that allows you to stock the bar in multiples, it'll be a fabulous addtion to your cocktail game or a surefire winner anytime you need a go-to fix for your rum craving without breaking the bank. | ||
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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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| 2018 Chateau Margaux (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Whether its what James Suckling describes as the "wonderful combination of refinement and power" in Chateau Margaux or the complexity and depth of Chateau Mouton Rothschild that Jeb Dunnuck declares "quintessential Pauillac," these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, a terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. A seductive Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend, Chateau Margaux' 82-hectare vineyard boasts some vines over 80 years of age, producing exceptional quality fruit which undergoes rigorous selection with typically only a third or less of production making the cut for the Grand Vin and typically aged for 18 to 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels made at their onsite cooperage. A top scoring selection ranging from the stunning 100 pt. 2009 Margaux just entering its window of drinkability to the alluring 100 pt. 2020 Margaux declared "a Margaux for the ages" by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, every vintage shares the Grand Vin's signature refinement and meticulous balance, offering floral aromatics and lush dark fruit with dense silky tannins that promise decades of enjoyment and all "elegant and utterly compelling" in the words of the Wine Advocate's William Kelley. A sumptuous and rich Cabernet Sauvignon blend known for its unique artwork labels that change with each vintage, Chateau Mouton Rothschild shares Margaux's "insane ability to age" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, its 83 hectare vineyard at Pauillac's highest elevation planted to 81% Cabernet Sauvignon averaging 50 years of age with some vines over 130 years with only 50% of the harvest making the final cut for the Grand Vin and always aged in 100% new French oak typically for 19 to 22 months. Described as a "multi-dimensional First Growth with a very persistent finish" by Vinous critic Neal Martin, the dazzling 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Mouton Rothschild is ready to enjoy after over a decade of pristine cellaring while the stunning 100 pt. 2010 Mouton is "a battleship of a wine" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth and not far behind, every vintage revealing the estate's signature seductive texture, velvety tannins and incredible depth and ranging to the "ethereal" 100 pt 2020 Mouton Rothschild that James Suckling declares "hard to not drink now," highlighting its approachability while acknowledging the potential for decades of evolution. Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, some of these remarkable First Growths boast over a decade of cellaring and others require patient cellaring before pulling the cork, but all are guaranteed to "blow you away any time" over the next several decades in the words of Jeb Dunnuck, delivered in perfect provenance at exceptional value pricing. | ||
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| 2022 Mazzei Siepi (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Tuscany, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More An exceptional Super Tuscan combining the power and roundness of Merlot with Sangiovese's structure and acidity, Mazzei's Siepi is a perennial collectible all-star that has seen a fanatical following grow up around the previous several vintages. Just eight miles from Siena in the historic village of Fonterutoli, 24 generations of the Mazzei family have been owners of the Fonterutoli Castle in Chianti Classico since 1435, boasting a rich legacy of crafting exceptional wines as one of the oldest winemaking families in Italy and the world. Known for being the first winery to plant Merlot in the region over three decades ago, Mazzei's combination of forward vision and steadfast traditionalism have garnered a consistent track record of excellence that few of their contemporaries can match, with the flagship Siepi as the cornerstone. The four vintages on offer today all showcase the recent trajectory of this magnificent Super Tuscan best-seller, starting with the "classy, elegant and super-polished" 2020 in magnum format. It's no surprise that the epic 2021 vintage produced "certainly one of the best editions of Siepi we've seen so far" per Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, while the double 97-point 2022 is an equally prodigious follow-up to its monumental predecessors in 2019 and 2021, as well as a worthy effort for the wine's 30th anniversary bottling. Finally, the 2023 has already racked up a pair of 97 points scores, with more surely to come. "Classy stuff," it's a lovely representation of the balance of the vintage and my indeed provide more immediate accessibility while you wait for the long-haul vintages to come to maturity. Whether you're building a Siepi vertical or just building a collection of Tuscany's greatest modern wines, the four vintages on offer today will add some serious depth and gravitas to any cellar. | ||
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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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| 2021 Dominio del Bendito Las Sabias (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Toro, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Terrin is a producer who nurtures the vine, seeking a concentrated and powerful style of the gravelly terroir." - Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous Spain's Toro region is one of the country's most dynamic, though it has long existed in the shadows of the more renowned Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. But winemakers like Dominio del Bendito's Antony Terrin are making serious waves by harnessing the potential of the extremely stony soils, old vines, and trademark powerful Toro style, resulting in serious wines of substance and depth that are built for the cellar. The 2021s are heavy hitters with serious press from Wine Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez, led by the 95-point, aptly named Titan del Bendito. Made from old, ungrafted plots, some dating to the 19th century, it "showcases the ripe and powerful style of the zone and the winery coupled with good freshness from a very complete and balanced year." Terrin intends this wine to be an ode to the great sophistication and age-worthiness of traditional Toro wines. Stylistically different, the 94-point Las Sabias is "full-bodied but balanced, with ripe fruit and tannins and integrated oak." From 45- to 80-year-old bush vines of Tinto del Toro, the Las Sabias is crafted to showcase a certain poise and freshness that Terrin believes is possible even in this warm-climate region. Of course, there will always be ample space for Rioja and Ribero in the cellars of Spanish wine collectors, but with entries like these from Dominio del Bendito, the Toro region should be on everyone's radar. | ||
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| 2022 Giovanni Rosso Etna Rosso (750ml) | ||
| Nerello Mascalese from Etna, Sicily, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The writing is on the wall ... Mount Etna has established itself as one of the most essential viticultural areas in the world." - Eric Guido, Vinous What was once an afterthought (or even out of thought) of the Italian wine scene, Sicily, and Mount Etna in particular, are now seeing a sky-rocketing level of attention from critics and consumers alike. Homegrown names like Terre Nere (a long-time B-21 favorite) and Pietradolce, as well as cult darlings like Arianna Occhipinti, have put the region on the map, and now we're seeing exceptionally talented winemakers from the mainland set up shop and put their talents to work on the singular varietals and vineyards that dot this volcanic landscape. Giovanni Rosso is the source of perennially acclaimed Barolos from the estate's plots in famed sites such as Cerretto and Vignarionda, and now under fourth-generation winemaker Davide Rosso, the estate has acquired parcels and expanded into Mount Etna with exceptional results. This pair of gems exemplifies both Rosso's pure winemaking philosophy and pure volcanic terroir. The 2022 Rosso has notched 95 points from James Suckling for its "perfumed and graceful" style, while the 94-point 2024 Bianco is "fragrant, [with] a ton of personality ... A delicious, moreish wine," according to Jane Anson. There's no shortage of new discoveries and sleeper stars waiting for you in Sicily, but this pair from Giovanni Rosso should be near the top of your list if you want to get a crystal clear introduction to this amazing, rising-star category. | ||
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| 2019 Rauzan-Segla (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described by Jeb Dunnuck as an estate "firing on all cylinders," there's no doubt that Super Second Chateau Rauzan-Segla ranks at the top of the Margaux appellation, these high scoring Left Bank blends from outstanding recent vintages offering First Growth depth and cellar worthy complexity at a fraction of the price. Located a short walk from the village of Margaux, Chateau Rauzan-Segla has been owned by the Wertheimer family of the fashion house Chanel since 1984, the estate undergoing a "no expense spared" restoration and revitalization that has fueled its steady rise in quality over the past two decades. Crafted by former Krug and Cheval des Andes winemaker Nicolas Audebert, the Grand Vin was sourced from the estate's 70 hectares of organically farmed vineyards throughout the appellation with some parcels close to First Growth Chateau Margaux and aged in mostly new French oak for 18 months. Living up to the Chateau's rising star reputation as "an estate that can do no wrong" according to Jeb Dunnuck, these lush Chateau Rauzan-Segla blends boast refined, polished tannins that promise longevity, this offer a perfect opportunity for Bordeaux fans to stock the cellar with top scoring values rivalling its First Growth peers at a best on the market price. | ||
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| 2019 Muga Prado Enea Gran Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Bodegas Muga's status as an all-time Rioja reference-point is reaffirmed with this sterling trio of releases at razor-sharp pricing, highlighted by the newly arrived 2021 Torre Muga. "...one of the finest vintages for Torre Muga, along with 2016 and 2010." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate The 2021 Rioja vintage is already garnering rave reviews in the press, and the JD98 Torre Muga reflects that praise, "a gorgeous wine from a gorgeous vintage that’s worth the price." Concentrated and robust yet also polished and refined, the 2021 expresses the character of its old-vine plots in Villalba de Rioja, Brinas, and Labastida. A host of impressive reviews from James Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Advocate further confirm the 2021 Torre Muga as a special achievement, worthy of the wine's loft reputation among collectors. The Selección Especial Reserva is always a crowd and collectible favorite in the range and always priced well for a broad audience yet offering the kind of cellar-worthy appeal that serious collectors are looking for. The 2020 rendtion ramps up the collectible appeal thanks to a particular feature of the vintage itself – no Prado Enea was made in 2020, so all the fruit and juice that would normally comprise that flagship icon has instead gone into the Selección Especial. So, it's no surprise that the 2020 picks up right where the 2019 leaves off, led by Jeb Dunnuck's 95-point review that highlights its "medium to full-bodied richness, a round, layered mouthfeel, and silky tannins," which makes it "already hard to resist." Finally, the 2021 Reserva Rioja continues to be one of the sharpest values in Spanish wine, "a textbook example of [Muga's] style in a very good year, with power, concentration and clout, elegance and freshness" perGutiérrez' 94-point review in Wine Advocate.It's a perfect candidate to stack by the case, since it will not only cruise for several years in the cellar, but it will quench your thirst for Muga excellence anytime over the next decade while the you wait for the big boys to reach their prime drinking windows. For fans of Spanish wine and of Rioja in particular, this is a spectacular opportunity to load up on proven performers that will put many smiles on your face for countless years to come, at market-best pricing. | ||
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| 2021 Dominio del Bendito El Titan del Bendito (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Toro, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Terrin is a producer who nurtures the vine, seeking a concentrated and powerful style of the gravelly terroir." - Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous Spain's Toro region is one of the country's most dynamic, though it has long existed in the shadows of the more renowned Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. But winemakers like Dominio del Bendito's Antony Terrin are making serious waves by harnessing the potential of the extremely stony soils, old vines, and trademark powerful Toro style, resulting in serious wines of substance and depth that are built for the cellar. The 2021s are heavy hitters with serious press from Wine Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez, led by the 95-point, aptly named Titan del Bendito. Made from old, ungrafted plots, some dating to the 19th century, it "showcases the ripe and powerful style of the zone and the winery coupled with good freshness from a very complete and balanced year." Terrin intends this wine to be an ode to the great sophistication and age-worthiness of traditional Toro wines. Stylistically different, the 94-point Las Sabias is "full-bodied but balanced, with ripe fruit and tannins and integrated oak." From 45- to 80-year-old bush vines of Tinto del Toro, the Las Sabias is crafted to showcase a certain poise and freshness that Terrin believes is possible even in this warm-climate region. Of course, there will always be ample space for Rioja and Ribero in the cellars of Spanish wine collectors, but with entries like these from Dominio del Bendito, the Toro region should be on everyone's radar. | ||
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| 2023 Schoffit Riesling Harth Tradition (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 Today is a special re-load/new release 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 Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos St-Theobald Grand Cru is another singular standout, this from granitic soils that shine in the wine's stunning combination of density and mineral energy. Finally, the newly released, 94-point 2023 Harth Gewürztraminer showcases Schoffit's great sites around Colmar with fantastic varietal precision, resulting in "a beautifully textured and structured Gewurztraminer with delicate acidity and serious structure." 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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| 2016 Chateau Suduiraut (750ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King's grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux's most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d'Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as "a mood altering wine," the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts "a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop" according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate's Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut "unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish." Boasting "a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit," Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a "benchmark Suduiraut" and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut "simply magnificent" and "a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the "fabulous" 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut "such a gorgeous wine," delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining "gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss calls it "a great wine with a long-term future." Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: "It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing." Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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| 5 Sentidos Pechuga de Mole Poblano Mezcal Batch #PMPDEL 08-25 (750ml) | ||
| From Oaxaca, Mexico | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Delfino is absolutely nailing the style, and it's no wonder this expression has developed such an avid legion of fans." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer If you're a mezcal fan or collector and you haven't jumped on board with 5 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 5 Sentidos range offers a dizzying array of options and styles, but an undisputed fan-favorite is the Pechuga de Mole Poblano from Defino Tobón Mejia, a show-stopping representation of the style. Defino ferments the agave cupreata (aka Papalote) with a freshly slaughtered chicken from his back yard, dousing it in homemade mole poblano in the process. "A veritable bomb of savory, meaty goodness," the Pechuga de Mole is a wild ride of complexity and intrigue. If you're already familiar with 5 Sentidos, you'll no doubt recall that this item has been out of stock for while, and it's hard to say when more will be available after this parcel is gone, so you'll definitely want to add this gem to your shelf while you can, and if you haven't discovered them yet, this is the perfect introduction to the top-tier craftsmanship that goes into all of Jason Cox's selections. | ||
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| 2024 Bodegas Avancia Godello (750ml) | ||
| Godello from Valdeorras, Galicia, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Their specialty is working with the Godello grape, which may well be Spain’s finest indigenous white grape ... Avancia is certainly the top producer of this intriguing and delicious dry white." - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Godello is the emblematic white grape of Spain, and the Valdeorras D.O. is emblematic of Godello. Jorge Ordoñez' Bodegas Avancia has been a standard bearer for Godello for years, and their Old Vine bottling is a consistent benchmark vintage after vintage. Sourced from head-trained, dry-farmed vines approaching 40 years of age on slate and quartz soils, resulting in a wine of serious depth and age-worthy concentration. The 2024 carries on this cuvée's sterling track record with a 94-point review from Vinous for its "pure, direct expression" of Godello. "Intense, with good freshness and weight," it's built to be a lasting rendition that will set the bar for Spanish whites in its price tier. | ||
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| 2016 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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| 2017 Chateau Meyney (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We've all seen the general rise in quality in Bordeaux over the past two decades, and now even the Cru Bourgeois (or Cru Classé) estates are gaining some serious recognition while still remaining top-tier QPR buys that you can stash away in the cellar. At the head of that pack is St-Éstephe's Château Meyney, always a savvy choice to overdeliver, and we've got a must-see mini-vertical on offer today, Since 2013 under the consulting direction of Château Angélus' Hubert de Bouard, Meyney is on a real tear, with mounting critical accolades that are far outpacing the estate's cru bourgeois classification. Each of the vintages below is a gem, but the undisputed highlights are the benchmark 2020 and 2022. "The 2020 Meyney turned out beautifully. Fresh, vibrant and full of character, the 2020 impresses with its energy and delineation," notes Antonio Galloni. The warm, dry 2022 vintage produced a profound, long-haul thoroughbred that offers extreme bang for your collectible buck, with widespread acclaim for all corners of the professional press. "A serious overachiever" according to Galloni, "this appears to be the best Meyney produced for quite some time, and it's well worth seeking out," notes Wine Advocate's William Kelley. In short, these acclaimed gems are some of the smartest bets for your cellar that you'll find, with tons of upside potential and case-buy pricing. | ||
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| 2021 Brezza Barolo Sarmassa (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "The 2021 Barolos (and the 2019 Riserva) find Brezza in fine shape. These firm, traditionally made Barolos will delight readers with classically leaning palates." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Our winery-direct relationship with Brezza once again pays huge dividends with the release of the highly anticipated 2021 single crus. By now, this modern benchmark vintage is on everyone's radar, and Brezza has undoubtedly captured the 2021 magic in their entire range, as our tasting last October confirmed. The smash hits of Sarmassa and Cannubi are towering efforts that weave together incredible terroir character and expert winemaking for collectible Barolos of the highest order. Brezza's Cannubi holding is a 1.4-hectare parcel in the very heart of the cru, so it comes as no surprise that the 2021 "shows all the class and pedigree that has made this site famous" according to Kerin O'Keefe, whose own 97-point score is eclipsed by a 98 points from Wine Enthusiast, which describes it as "a profound testament to Nebbiolo's nobility ... completeness in a glass, a wine that carries both power and finesse with equal measure. The warm micro-climate of Sarmassa endows the wine with deep but balanced personality, with ideal phenolic ripeness being a typical hallmark of the vineyard. This 98-point stunner is "a wine that speaks of place with crystalline clarity," giving telltale signatures of the cru in every drop. Kerin O'Keefe likewise calls it "a gorgeous wine and great expression of this site," and there's no doubt that the magnificent 2021 vintage has turned out a truly special rendition of this long-time B-21 favorite. Finally, Brezza's prized south-facing plots in Sarmassa, Vigna Bricco, produced a marvelous Riserva in the acclaimed 2019 vintage that "brings together all the elements that make these wines so appealing, namely the elegance of Cannubi and then structure of the Sarmassa," according to Antonio Galloni. A concentrated, impressively built Riserva with stunning underlying tension, the 2019 is a hallmark cellar Barolo, made for a long evolution. As thrilling as this trio is right now, you'll certainly want to stash bottles away and forget them for a while, because the rewards are sure to be as compelling as almost anything you'll find in these epic vintages, once the wines have time to reach their full potential. | ||
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| 2023 Domaine du Bel Air Bourgueil Les Vingt Lieux Dits (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Touraine, Loire, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "... [a] hidden-gem domaine that is also one of the benchmarks for the Bourgueil appellation." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Loire Buyer We had been searching for the wines of Pierre and Rodolphe Gauthier at Domaine du Bel-Air, since tasting the full range early last year, and finally the opportunity materialized in late autumn. Now, we not only have access, but we have direct access. The latest addition to our Loire direct-import stable is a benchmark of red wine excellence, all the way from their stunning, old-vine, single-vineyard cuvees to the entry-level 2023 Les Vingt Lieux Dits, "a classic, old-school Loire Cab Franc in all the best ways," as B-21 Buyer Andrew Kitz describes it. As you might assume, this Cabernet Franc is a blend of up to twenty of the domaine's micro-parcels in Bourgueil, with average vine ages of 40 years. Long, cold-soak maceration, natural yeast fermentation, and aging for 12 months in used barrels all contributes to the wine's classic expression of youthful Cabernet Franc. The cooler vintage resulted in a wine with restrained yet concentrated fruit, assertive mineral backbone, and varietally pure character all the way through. The 2023 vintage very much favored the Gauthier brothers' style, which is to say this is a structurally solid Cabernet Franc with real substance and cellar potential, all for an incredible $20 price. As good as the Vingt Lieux-Dits is, it's the single-vineyard cuvées that cement the domaine's reference-point reputation, and the Grand Mont is the crown jewel in the stable. Vinous' Rebecca Gibb describes the 2021 single-vineyard wines as "long-lived, elegant classics" and the 94-point Grand Mont in particular as "savory and serious ... precise, balanced, and full of sinew." Much like 2023, the 2021 vintage was cool growing season that favored the domaine style, and the Grand Mont is an impeccable example of the very best qualities of classic, top-end Loire Cabernet Franc. | ||
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| 2007 Chateau Suduiraut (750ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King's grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux's most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d'Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as "a mood altering wine," the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts "a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop" according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate's Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut "unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish." Boasting "a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit," Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a "benchmark Suduiraut" and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut "simply magnificent" and "a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the "fabulous" 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut "such a gorgeous wine," delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining "gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss calls it "a great wine with a long-term future." Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: "It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing." Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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| 2023 Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Beaune Les Champs Pimont 1er Cru (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Beaune, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Of all the new direct-import discoveries to join our portfolio last year, perhaps none reach the heights of quality that Domaine Clos de la Chapelle does. This remarkable domaine under the direction of Pierre Merguey and his American partner Mark O'Connell is still flying under the radar, but they're poised for a big breakout into the elite echelon. The domaine's vineyard holdings are impressive to say the least, centered around their monopole Volnay Clos de la Chapelle 1er Cru. Top to bottom, the 2023s were incredibly impressive on both occasions we tasted them, at Wine Paris in February and again at the domaine in April. The critical press is equally impressed on a consistent basis, as the domaine has racked up solid accolades from Wine Spectator, Burghound, Inside Burgundy, and View From the Cellar. The crown jewel is indeed the "utterly stunning" monopole Volnay 1er Cru Clos de la Chapelle, a 96-point showstopper that's "all about finesse and its silky texture, with ... terrific dimension." The double 95-point Volnay 1er Cru Taillepieds is itself a world-class expression of this hallowed site that can stand toe-to-toe with the likes of d'Angerville and Montille at a fraction of their prices. Gilman exclaims, "I have always loved this terroir since my very earliest days drinking Burgundy and it seems pretty clear to me that today, no one makes a better example of Taillepieds than the team at Clos de la Chapelle!" The JG94 Volany Santentots du Milieu is a bona fide gem in its own. "Remarkably sensual," the 2023 is "a simply great bottle of Santenots du Milieu in the making." The sleeper gem, however, is the Beaune Champs Pimot 1er Cru. The lesser-know lieu-dit turned out a fantastic 2023 with a "complex aromatic constellation" and a "a very good core of fruit, tangy acids, fine focus and balance and a long, suavely tannic finish." It's safe to say we haven't been this excited to introduce a new producer in a long time, and our direct access to the domaine's cellars makes the entire line-up some of the sharpest collectible buys in our Burgundy inventory. | ||
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| 2021 Smith Madrone Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Readers seeking Napa Cabernets from the 2021 vintage with serious cellaring potential should consider stocking up on Smith Madrone's offerings, as these '21s are true cellar-worthy gems." - Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter Stu and Charlie Smith have been quietly making some of the most classic, old-school Napa Cabs on the market since 1972. Perched high up on their rural property atop Spring Mountain, the brothers have largely avoided the glitz & glamour rat race that is the modern Napa wine scene. Instead, they stick to the fundamentals, beginning with their 15-hectare, prized Cabernet Sauvignon block planted in 1971. Indeed, James Suckling calls Smith-Madrone "a staunch defender of the restrained, elegant style of Napa reds made in the 1970s." The 2021 vintage was tailor-made for the classicists, an outstanding campaign of ideal conditions, and the wines have proven themselves to be modern benchmarks. The 2021 Smith-Madrone Estate Cabernet is a knockout with a pair of 97-point reviews leading an impressive critical line. "A Cabernet that exemplifies how the variety became so popular: classic, structural, aromatic, and finessed. "A Cabernet that exemplifies how the variety became so popular: classic, structural, aromatic, and finessed. An impossible find for the price." That about sums it up from Wine Enthusiast. In a category that is becoming prohibitively expensive for many wine lovers, the 2021 Smith-Madrone takes us back to Napa's golden years, not in terms of style, but in terms of value as well. | ||
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| 2016 De Fieuzal Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This 90-hecatre estate in Pessac-Léognan is undergoing a renaissance in the hands of winemaker Stephen Carrier and consultant Thomas Duclos ... In short, de Fieuzal is an estate to watch." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate The above quote from William Kelley truly captures the sentiment around this hidden gem estate in Pessac-Léognan. In a Left Bank appellation known for pushing quality and value to new levels, Château de Fieuzal is hitting all the marks lately, as evidenced by today's line-up of recent releases. The estate's red is a sub-$50 home-run hitter every year, and that kind of consistency is on display in the 2019, 2020, and 2022 vintages, the latter of which "shines for its balance and purity" per Jeb Dunnuck and was deserving of 96 points from Yohan Castaing ofWine Advocate. Not to be overlooked, the 2020 is also "a medium to full-bodied, seamless, layered wine " that has racked up impressive accolades from across the critical space for its "great mix of richness and elegance." Finally, like any great Pessac estate, de Fieuzal's white wines are some of the best in Bordeaux, and the two vintages on offer today each boast an impressive critical line that tops off at 95 points. If you're a savvy Bordeaux enthusiast who's been looking for your next great discovery, you've found one in Château de Fieuzal. | ||
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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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| 2020 Chateau Margaux (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Whether its what James Suckling describes as the "wonderful combination of refinement and power" in Chateau Margaux or the complexity and depth of Chateau Mouton Rothschild that Jeb Dunnuck declares "quintessential Pauillac," these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, a terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. A seductive Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend, Chateau Margaux' 82-hectare vineyard boasts some vines over 80 years of age, producing exceptional quality fruit which undergoes rigorous selection with typically only a third or less of production making the cut for the Grand Vin and typically aged for 18 to 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels made at their onsite cooperage. A top scoring selection ranging from the stunning 100 pt. 2009 Margaux just entering its window of drinkability to the alluring 100 pt. 2020 Margaux declared "a Margaux for the ages" by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, every vintage shares the Grand Vin's signature refinement and meticulous balance, offering floral aromatics and lush dark fruit with dense silky tannins that promise decades of enjoyment and all "elegant and utterly compelling" in the words of the Wine Advocate's William Kelley. A sumptuous and rich Cabernet Sauvignon blend known for its unique artwork labels that change with each vintage, Chateau Mouton Rothschild shares Margaux's "insane ability to age" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, its 83 hectare vineyard at Pauillac's highest elevation planted to 81% Cabernet Sauvignon averaging 50 years of age with some vines over 130 years with only 50% of the harvest making the final cut for the Grand Vin and always aged in 100% new French oak typically for 19 to 22 months. Described as a "multi-dimensional First Growth with a very persistent finish" by Vinous critic Neal Martin, the dazzling 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Mouton Rothschild is ready to enjoy after over a decade of pristine cellaring while the stunning 100 pt. 2010 Mouton is "a battleship of a wine" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth and not far behind, every vintage revealing the estate's signature seductive texture, velvety tannins and incredible depth and ranging to the "ethereal" 100 pt 2020 Mouton Rothschild that James Suckling declares "hard to not drink now," highlighting its approachability while acknowledging the potential for decades of evolution. Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, some of these remarkable First Growths boast over a decade of cellaring and others require patient cellaring before pulling the cork, but all are guaranteed to "blow you away any time" over the next several decades in the words of Jeb Dunnuck, delivered in perfect provenance at exceptional value pricing. | ||
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| 2023 Marchand-Grillot En Bollery Coteaux Bourguignon (750ml) | ||
| Gamay from Bourgogne, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More April's trip to Burgundy focused heavily on the Côte de Nuits, and we were fortunate to stumble upon a remarkable, family-run domaine in Gevrey that remains very much under the radar, despite an enviable stable and comprehensive range of bottlings. Marchand-Grillot's vine holdings include many of the best 1er Crus in Gevrey, but as with most of our favorite domaine's, their star really shines in the village level. After all, it's a real indication of commitment and expertise to make a top-notch expression at this tier, and along with superb the Morey-St-Denis, their 2023 Gevrey-Chambertin made perhaps the biggest impression on us. The domaine's several excellent village parcels comprise this bottling, many of which are bottled on their own as single-cru expressions as well, so this cuvée puts forth both marvelous fruit expression and superb terroir signature. "...this is a quintessential Gevrey that will stretch its legs for several years and blossom into a real showstopper for savvy and patient Burgundy aficionados." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Burgundy Buyer Morey-St-Denis remains something of an afterthought in the wider world of Burgundy, but when you're presented with an expression like the 2023 from Marchand-Grillot, you'll take a long, serious look at what is arguably the Côte de Nuits' finest hotbed of quality and value. This 2023 does everything you'd expect from a well-crafted, exemplary village bottling. "Eyebrows raised all around the table when we tasted it at the domaine, so we knew we were on to a real gem here. Classy and gorgeous – that about sums it up." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Burgundy Buyer Finally, there my be few values in Burgundy sharper than the 2023 En Bollery Coteaux Bourguignons, from a parcel with grand cru pedigree (but for an old stone wall) and Bourgogne Rouge pricing. The En Bollery plot is separated from Grand Cru Clos Vougeot by nothing but the east wall of the Clos itself, yet the wine bears the humble Coteaux designation thanks to the presence of Gamay in the vineyard and the wine. No matter, as the 2023 shows "next-level concentration, precision, and purity" that makes it "essentially every bit as good as many village crus from the Côte de Nuits, at a mere fraction of the price," as Andrew puts it. As cellar-worthy Burgundy of exceptional quality at a fair deal is becoming more and more difficult to find, we're thrilled to be able to bring you examples like these at domaine-direct pricing. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Mouton Rothschild (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Whether its what James Suckling describes as the "wonderful combination of refinement and power" in Chateau Margaux or the complexity and depth of Chateau Mouton Rothschild that Jeb Dunnuck declares "quintessential Pauillac," these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, a terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. A seductive Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend, Chateau Margaux' 82-hectare vineyard boasts some vines over 80 years of age, producing exceptional quality fruit which undergoes rigorous selection with typically only a third or less of production making the cut for the Grand Vin and typically aged for 18 to 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels made at their onsite cooperage. A top scoring selection ranging from the stunning 100 pt. 2009 Margaux just entering its window of drinkability to the alluring 100 pt. 2020 Margaux declared "a Margaux for the ages" by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, every vintage shares the Grand Vin's signature refinement and meticulous balance, offering floral aromatics and lush dark fruit with dense silky tannins that promise decades of enjoyment and all "elegant and utterly compelling" in the words of the Wine Advocate's William Kelley. A sumptuous and rich Cabernet Sauvignon blend known for its unique artwork labels that change with each vintage, Chateau Mouton Rothschild shares Margaux's "insane ability to age" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, its 83 hectare vineyard at Pauillac's highest elevation planted to 81% Cabernet Sauvignon averaging 50 years of age with some vines over 130 years with only 50% of the harvest making the final cut for the Grand Vin and always aged in 100% new French oak typically for 19 to 22 months. Described as a "multi-dimensional First Growth with a very persistent finish" by Vinous critic Neal Martin, the dazzling 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Mouton Rothschild is ready to enjoy after over a decade of pristine cellaring while the stunning 100 pt. 2010 Mouton is "a battleship of a wine" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth and not far behind, every vintage revealing the estate's signature seductive texture, velvety tannins and incredible depth and ranging to the "ethereal" 100 pt 2020 Mouton Rothschild that James Suckling declares "hard to not drink now," highlighting its approachability while acknowledging the potential for decades of evolution. Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, some of these remarkable First Growths boast over a decade of cellaring and others require patient cellaring before pulling the cork, but all are guaranteed to "blow you away any time" over the next several decades in the words of Jeb Dunnuck, delivered in perfect provenance at exceptional value pricing. | ||
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| 2023 Chateau de Vaudieu Les Vieilles Roussanne Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Roussanne from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "In addition to the brilliant reds, this estate fashions some of the greatest whites in the appellation." - Jeb Dunnuck Château de Vaudieu is a long-time favorite among Châteauneuf-du-Pape insiders for their ultra-refined style and their impeccable terroir (neighbors to the cult icon Chateau Rayas, so it's no surprise), but their wines are typically very scarce in the U.S. market. So, when we came across a parcel of their dazzling 2022s, we jumped on it without hesitation. Vaudieu's impeccable, sandy soils endow the estate's red wines with uncompromising elegance and finesse, while simultaneously imparting serious concentration to the flavor profiles and structures. "Unquestionably up with the top wines of the vintage" according to Dunnuck, the 2022 Val de Dieu, a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 20% Mourvèdre, shines in the early-harvest 2022 vintage, capturing all the vintage's bright, sunny character while remaining incredibly sleek and agile. The 96-point Amiral G and 97-Point L' Avenue are every bit the cult-caliber showstoppers that their reputations imply, the latter also "up with the crème de la crème of the vintage" per Dunnuck and the former a "structured and concentrated ... great success" in the words of Advocate's Yohan Castaing. Of course, as Dunnuck notes above, no serious Rhône fan should overlook the Vaudieu whites, benchmarks in every way, starting with the prodigious, 97-point, "Hermitage-like" Clos de Belvedere, a cuvée of 100% Grenache Blanc that's the absolute height of the varietal expression. In the same league of varietal masterpieces, the Vieilles Roussanne is "an enticing white, with simmering, spicy power and dimension" that shows its limestone terroir in perfect clarity along side its pure Roussanne character. This is a standout range the exemplifies one of the appellation's great benchmark estates, offering collectors a bevy of cellar-worthy stunners that can stand toe-to-toe with the very best that Châteauneuf has to offer. | ||
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| 2023 Chateau Suduiraut (375ml) | ||
| Semillon from Sauternes, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Featured in a range of formats and vintages cellared in perfect conditions, Sauternes fans and those looking to explore them won't need an excuse or special occasion to enjoy this thrilling, top scoring selection from Chateau Suduiraut, boasting fresh, opulent honeyed fruit perfectly balanced by savory acidity, offering a not to be missed opportunity for both collectors and newbies to stock up on at bargain pricing and enjoy over the next decades. Set among exquisite gardens designed by the creator of the Sun King's grounds at the Palace of Versailles, the majestic two-story turret-flanked Chateau Suduiraut is one of Bordeaux's most beautiful estates, located just to the north of Chateau d'Yquem with 92 hectares of sloping organically farmed vineyards planted with mostly Semillon vines averaging 30 years of age. After harvesting the botrytized grapes over multiple passes with strict selection employed in the vineyard, longtime technical director Pierre Montegut vinified the Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes in French oak, blending mostly Semillon with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, then aged it on the lees in 50% new French oak barrels for 18-24 months, yielding its signature perfumed aromas with rich and decadent spiced fruit, balanced with energetic acidity and epic length. Describing it as "a mood altering wine," the 95 pt. 2004 Suduiraut boasts "a range of honeyed flavors that never seems to stop" according to Wine and Spirits, while the Wine Advocate's Robert Parker Jr. declares the 95 pt. 2006 Suduiraut "unctuously textured, with superb, full-bodied richness, good underlying acidity, and a stunning finish." Boasting "a beautiful razor-sharp line of acidity that effortlessly slices through all that pure botrytised fruit," Neal Martin of Vinous calls the 98 pt. 2009 Suduiraut a "benchmark Suduiraut" and declares the 96 pt. 2010 Chateau Suduiraut "simply magnificent" and "a candidate for best Sauternes of the vintage." Vinous critic Antonio Galloni declares the "fabulous" 97 pt. 2016 Suduiraut "such a gorgeous wine," delivering a remarkable combination of flavor and intensity yet remaining "gracious and classy," while the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss calls it "a great wine with a long-term future." Whether selecting a few favorites or mixing a case, these magical vintages of Chateau Suduiraut are crafted to reveal their layered complexity over the next decades, their rich palate deftly balanced by an energizing lift of acidity, guaranteeing a pleasurable evolution for years to come. Christian Seely, AXA's charismatic managing director behind Chateau Suduiraut, describes tasting these elegantly crafted Sauternes well: "It is above all a supremely pleasurable wine, and one that needs no excuse, context or pairing: You can just open it for the sheer pleasure of the thing." Never more true at these exceptional bargain prices. | ||
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