| 2021 Beaulieu Vineyard Reserve Tapestry (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "BV is arguably one of the most improved estates in Napa Valley over the last few years. Today’s wines offer terrific energy in a style that marries textural resonances with vibrancy." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous If you're looking for sure bets in Napa Cabernet, you can't do much better than Beaulieu Vineyards in an outstanding vintage, and this trio from the monumental 2021 and 2023 vintages is a must-see for any avid fan or collector. The 2023 BV Napa Valley Cabernet cements its place as one of the category's great value propositions. A double 94-point gem for under $40, it's "succulent, layered and generous ... An excellent release of this wine with all the traditional hallmarks," as noted by James Suckling. Legendary Napa pedigree and a benchmark vintage come together to form a top-tier overachiever in the 2021 BV Tapestry Reserve. Often known as "Baby Latour", it's a lovely precursor to the estate's iconic flagship wine, at a fraction of the price. Not only that, but the 2021 also boasts some impressive accolades, led by a 96-point score from James Suckling, who declares it "one of the best I have had." The vintage's outstanding growing conditions resulted in a wine with "excellent length and serious tension" between plush fruit and precisely executed structure. Jeb Dunnuck declares, "It's medium to full-bodied, with a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Bravo to the team at Beaulieu for delivering this level of quality." Following on the heels of star-studded vintages like 2018 and 2019, the 2021 BV Georges de Latour Reserve is "outrageously beautiful, writes Galloni. "A wine of statuesque build and class, the 2021 represents another major step forward for BV." It offers collectors a level of sophistication and elegance that simply adds one more dimension to one of the world's great Cabernets. With three 98-point scores carrying the critical line, the 2021 "does everything right" according to Jeb Dunnuck, and avid collectors of this Napa legend will be thrilled to have it in their cellars. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Beringer Chardonnay Private Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Napa, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Quite a powerful wine that is carried by pure acidity and freshness." - James Suckling Beringer's Private Reserve line is arguably one of the greatest sources of consistent quality for price in Napa Valley and has been for the past three decades. The stellar 2023 vintage provided plenty of opportunity to continue that track record, and the latest release of the Private Reserve Chardonnay does not disappoint. In fact, it's set to be a reference-point rendition of this all-time fan favorite 96 points from James Suckling and 95 points from Jeb Dunnuck. Sourced almost entirely from the historic Gamble Ranch in Oakville, this is Napa Chardonnay through and through, yet it stays well clear of the excesses that have sometimes plagued the category in recent, namely over-ripeness and heavy-handed oak. "Medium to full-bodied, it's pure, balanced, and layered, with wonderfully integrated oak," notes Dunnuck, "It brings ample power and richness while staying light on its feet." That about sums up the Beringer style and the brilliant 2023 Napa vintage, and it gives ample reason to stock up. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Ramirez de la Piscina Crianza (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Rich, fruity and expressive ... Weighty yet well-balanced with texture." - Decanter As dominant as Rioja is in the Spanish collectible space, its penchant for delivering outstanding everyday values is also unmatched. The latest entry proving the point is Ramirez de la Piscina's charming 2020 Crianza, a rock-solid performer for an easy case-buy price. Two of the characteristics that make Crianza Rioja such a powerhouse category in the everyday price is tier are the reliably enjoyable, approachable fruit profile and the bright, refreshing balance, both of which this 2020 displays in spades. Whether you're a fan of Rioja or just looking for a new candidate to add to your everyday/crowd-pleaser rotations, you can rest assured you've found it in this artfully crafted rendition. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Felsina Chianti Classico Berardenga (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat." With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues. Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank. This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy (750ml) | ||
| Shiraz from McLaren Vale, Australia | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Juicy and seamless, this is impressive for its generosity and plush texture..." - MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator Mollydooker's legions of fans are already well-familiar with the unmistakable style of the estate, and none of their wines is more widely loved and admired for that style than the iconic Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz. A blend of four top-notch McLaren Vale vineyards, including Mollydooker's own estate, plus a touch of Langhorne Creek fruit, the 2022 was barrel-fermented and aged entirely in American oak, half new, giving it the customary spicy complexity that accents the luxurious fruit for which Mollydooker is so famous. At our razor-sharp pricing, all you need to do is load up and enjoy! | ||
|
||
| 2019 Chateau Troplong Mondot (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
6 B-21 Top Recommendation Read More Here's an exciting opportunity to enjoy a vertical of outstanding new releases from Chateau Troplong Mondot, three incredibly promising vintages garnering multiple 100 pt. scores and wowing critics across the board, each built for three decades of pleasurable drinking and unbeatably priced to over deliver value. Perched in a spectacular location with a 360-degree view overlooking St. Emilion, Chateau Troplong Mondot is marked by the prominent water tower at St. Emilion's highest point, its stunning new cellars viewed from above on a glass catwalk reflecting the estate's dramatic transformation since its purchase by insurance company SCOR in 2017. Immediately hiring Bordeaux veteran Aymeric de Gironde, formerly of Pichon Baron and Cos d'Estournel, to lead the estate, Troplong Mondot pivoted to a classical, terroir-driven style, identifying the unique qualities of even the smallest parcels of its organically farmed 65 hectares of vineyards and reducing the amount of new oak to allow their rich minerality to shine through, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as reflecting "a more evident respect for the powerful terroir that does not need to be overly dressed up" under the guidance of renowned consulting enologist Thomas Duclos. Vinified in vats instead of barrels to preserve freshness, the 98 pt. 2018 Chateau Troplong Mondot is "simply breathtaking" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, aged in 60% new oak with a small percentage in large vats and amphorae to yield a Troplong with "brighter red fruit flavors" that's "backed by a distinct flinty minerality" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth. The 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Troplong Mondot is "wonderfully exuberant right out of the gate" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, with aromatic, rich dark fruit described as "powerful and dense" by the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss that "ends with a whoosh of freshness and lift" according to Jane Anson. Describing these recent vintages as marking "the upward trajectory and unveiling of the new expression of this very special site at Troplong Mondot," the Wine Advocate's William Kelley declared, "what an exhilarating ride this is!" while Jeb Dunnuck unequivocally declares "there is no denying the incredible quality from this chateau today" – these value priced Chateau Troplong Mondot selections offering an exciting opportunity for Bordeaux fans and collectors to mix a case or pick a few favorites and jump aboard St. Emilion's rising star for the thrilling journey ahead. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Felsina Fontalloro (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat." With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues. Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank. This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
|
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, 99-point 2021 Torre Muga. The 2021 Rioja vintage is already garnering rave reviews in the press, and the 99-point 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 2020 Selección Especial Reserva 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." The 97-point 2019 Prado Enea is unquestionably one for the ages. Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and 2019 rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. Luis Gutierrez' 97-point review in Wine Advocate is just the first of what's sure to be another raft of critical praise for the 2019, as it takes its place among the greats. Muga fans know that Prado Enea isn't made every year – no 2017 or 2018 was made, for instance – so when it does appear, we can be virtually assured that it's going to be a showstopper. With its "phenomenal" aromatic profile and a palate built on "power and elegance and very good aging potential," this is collectible Rioja class at its very best, and it's now available to our private clients at a must-see price that you won't find anywhere else. Finally, Muga's incredible fan-favorite Blanco and Rosado absolutely shine in the newly released 2025 renditions. The 93-point 2025 Blanco is "super balanced, clean and focused, serious and chalky" according to Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez, while Joaquin Hidalgo calls it "a particularly successful vintage for this bottling." The 2025 Rosado notched 92 points for its "fresh and energetic [style] with fine texture and a sleek, nervy flow." From collectibles to everyday showstoppers, Muga is clearly at the top of their game once again, and Spanish wine lovers have a plethora of surefire options to fit every need in they might have, for the cellar or tonight's dinner table. | ||
|
||
| 2020 Felsina Rancia Chianti Classico Riserva (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat." With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues. Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank. This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Saint Damien Les Souteyrades (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Continuing to deliver exceptional value for money, the red wines from Domaine Saint-Damien deserve a place on everyone’s Gigondas watchlist." - Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous "These are brilliant, layered, textured Gigondas that represent insane values." - Jeb Dunnuck The above comments pretty much sum up everything you need to know about the all-time best-seling Gigondas stunners from Domaine Saint-Damien. Year after year, they hit the mark with a track record that's easily among the most consistent in the Southern Rhône, and the newly arrived 2023s keep the trend going with monster 98-point scores from Dunnuck, as well as our customary razor-sharp pricing. The 2023 Les Souteyrades (80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre) is from 50- to 80-year-old vines on quarternary soils in the lower terraced section of Gigondas, which accounts for the wine's heady, exotic character. "It's another absolutely riveting Gigondas from this estate that readers should snatch up!" declares Dunnuck. Although not as widely known as Les Souteyrades, the La Louisiane bottling is no less impressive with its inclusion of small amounts of Cinsault and Syrah giving the wine a decidely darker "ultra-classic Gigondas style." From 50- to 85-year-old vines on poor alluvial soils speckled with red clay, the 2023 La Louisiane is "a brilliant effort that will stand toe to toe with anything in the vintage." Best of all, these collectible-caliber showstoppers come in at remarkable sub-$40 pricing that makes it easy to stock up for the long-haul, as the track record of previous vintages suggests that these have a long life ahead of them in the cellar. | ||
|
||
| 2018 Chateau Troplong Mondot (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
6 B-21 Top Recommendation Read More Here's an exciting opportunity to enjoy a vertical of outstanding new releases from Chateau Troplong Mondot, three incredibly promising vintages garnering multiple 100 pt. scores and wowing critics across the board, each built for three decades of pleasurable drinking and unbeatably priced to over deliver value. Perched in a spectacular location with a 360-degree view overlooking St. Emilion, Chateau Troplong Mondot is marked by the prominent water tower at St. Emilion's highest point, its stunning new cellars viewed from above on a glass catwalk reflecting the estate's dramatic transformation since its purchase by insurance company SCOR in 2017. Immediately hiring Bordeaux veteran Aymeric de Gironde, formerly of Pichon Baron and Cos d'Estournel, to lead the estate, Troplong Mondot pivoted to a classical, terroir-driven style, identifying the unique qualities of even the smallest parcels of its organically farmed 65 hectares of vineyards and reducing the amount of new oak to allow their rich minerality to shine through, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as reflecting "a more evident respect for the powerful terroir that does not need to be overly dressed up" under the guidance of renowned consulting enologist Thomas Duclos. Vinified in vats instead of barrels to preserve freshness, the 98 pt. 2018 Chateau Troplong Mondot is "simply breathtaking" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, aged in 60% new oak with a small percentage in large vats and amphorae to yield a Troplong with "brighter red fruit flavors" that's "backed by a distinct flinty minerality" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth. The 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Troplong Mondot is "wonderfully exuberant right out of the gate" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, with aromatic, rich dark fruit described as "powerful and dense" by the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss that "ends with a whoosh of freshness and lift" according to Jane Anson. Describing these recent vintages as marking "the upward trajectory and unveiling of the new expression of this very special site at Troplong Mondot," the Wine Advocate's William Kelley declared, "what an exhilarating ride this is!" while Jeb Dunnuck unequivocally declares "there is no denying the incredible quality from this chateau today" – these value priced Chateau Troplong Mondot selections offering an exciting opportunity for Bordeaux fans and collectors to mix a case or pick a few favorites and jump aboard St. Emilion's rising star for the thrilling journey ahead. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Saint Damien La Louisiane (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Gigondas, Rhône, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Continuing to deliver exceptional value for money, the red wines from Domaine Saint-Damien deserve a place on everyone’s Gigondas watchlist." - Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous "These are brilliant, layered, textured Gigondas that represent insane values." - Jeb Dunnuck The above comments pretty much sum up everything you need to know about the all-time best-seling Gigondas stunners from Domaine Saint-Damien. Year after year, they hit the mark with a track record that's easily among the most consistent in the Southern Rhône, and the newly arrived 2023s keep the trend going with monster 98-point scores from Dunnuck, as well as our customary razor-sharp pricing. The 2023 Les Souteyrades (80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre) is from 50- to 80-year-old vines on quarternary soils in the lower terraced section of Gigondas, which accounts for the wine's heady, exotic character. "It's another absolutely riveting Gigondas from this estate that readers should snatch up!" declares Dunnuck. Although not as widely known as Les Souteyrades, the La Louisiane bottling is no less impressive with its inclusion of small amounts of Cinsault and Syrah giving the wine a decidely darker "ultra-classic Gigondas style." From 50- to 85-year-old vines on poor alluvial soils speckled with red clay, the 2023 La Louisiane is "a brilliant effort that will stand toe to toe with anything in the vintage." Best of all, these collectible-caliber showstoppers come in at remarkable sub-$40 pricing that makes it easy to stock up for the long-haul, as the track record of previous vintages suggests that these have a long life ahead of them in the cellar. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Rudi Pichler Gruner Veltliner Federspiel Wachau (750ml) | ||
| Gruner Veltliner from Wachau, Niederosterreich, Austria | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "...the [2024s] have beautiful concentration and real tension. Well done." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous Arguably one of the top three estate in the Wachau, Rudi Pichler is a unanimous reference-point for the region, and there are few, if any, estates that have the same wherewithal to spin absolute gold out of a difficult vintage. Old vines, steep slopes, and Rudi's uncompromising, meticulous skills turned out a range of stunning expressions that are easily among the best in the category. From the beautifully balanced, 94-point Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Terrassen to the towering excellence of the 98-point Riesling and Grüner Smaragds from the Achleiten site, the entire range is comprised of must-have benchmarks for serious Austrian fans. Savvy buyers will not overlook the "exquisite purity and expression" of the double 96-point Riesling Smaragd Kirchweg or the equally "stunning" Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Kollmutz. These are just a few of the highlights in an entire line-up that sets the bar for the vintage, and to top it all off, don't miss the very last stocks of the equally prodigious 2023s, still available at remarkable pricing. | ||
|
||
| 2024 Stoller Family Estate Pinot Noir (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Willamette, Oregon | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "You'd be hard pressed to find a better Willamette Valley Pinot Noir value than this early release from Stoller." - Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast You can't say it better than Michael Alberty does above. Stoller has been a stalwart icon for years in Willamette Valley, crafting wines of real substance and pedigree while keeping their entry-level prices accessible to anyone and everyone looking for great Oregon Pinot character. The 2024 vintage was an ideal growing season for pure Willamette Pinot character, and Stoller's many exceptional grower connections up and down the valley meant that they had the prime pick of fruit with which to make this outstanding appellation expression. With 94 points and an Editors' Choice nod from Wine Enthusiast, it's a value gem par excellence that any fan of great Pinot Noir can get behind in a big way. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Beaulieu Vineyards Georges de Latour Private Reserve (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "BV is arguably one of the most improved estates in Napa Valley over the last few years. Today’s wines offer terrific energy in a style that marries textural resonances with vibrancy." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous If you're looking for sure bets in Napa Cabernet, you can't do much better than Beaulieu Vineyards in an outstanding vintage, and this trio from the monumental 2021 and 2023 vintages is a must-see for any avid fan or collector. The 2023 BV Napa Valley Cabernet cements its place as one of the category's great value propositions. A double 94-point gem for under $40, it's "succulent, layered and generous ... An excellent release of this wine with all the traditional hallmarks," as noted by James Suckling. Legendary Napa pedigree and a benchmark vintage come together to form a top-tier overachiever in the 2021 BV Tapestry Reserve. Often known as "Baby Latour", it's a lovely precursor to the estate's iconic flagship wine, at a fraction of the price. Not only that, but the 2021 also boasts some impressive accolades, led by a 96-point score from James Suckling, who declares it "one of the best I have had." The vintage's outstanding growing conditions resulted in a wine with "excellent length and serious tension" between plush fruit and precisely executed structure. Jeb Dunnuck declares, "It's medium to full-bodied, with a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Bravo to the team at Beaulieu for delivering this level of quality." Following on the heels of star-studded vintages like 2018 and 2019, the 2021 BV Georges de Latour Reserve is "outrageously beautiful, writes Galloni. "A wine of statuesque build and class, the 2021 represents another major step forward for BV." It offers collectors a level of sophistication and elegance that simply adds one more dimension to one of the world's great Cabernets. With three 98-point scores carrying the critical line, the 2021 "does everything right" according to Jeb Dunnuck, and avid collectors of this Napa legend will be thrilled to have it in their cellars. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Massolino Barolo (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Two thousand twenty-one is a superb vintage for Barolo." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous The hype has been going for some time now, but you never know just how good or great a vintage can be until the wines hit the market. Now that the 2021 Barolos are here, it's clear that the early praise and accolades are well warranted. Apart from a few isolated weather events, the growing season was ideal by modern Barolo standards, with a long cycle and normal harvest time. Normal diurnal temperature shifts and heat patterns also contributed to the incredible overall quality that is becoming evident in the finished wines. As Galloni notes in his comprehensive vintage report, "The 2021 Barolos are finessed, elegant wines that will delight Piedmont fans." Against this backdrop, we present a staggering array of the vintage's most compelling recent releases, over forty wines spanning entry-level gems and values for near-term enjoyment to cult-caliber cellar performers that will show the 2021 vintage in all its glory decades down the road. Names like Vietti, Vajra, and Gaja dot the landscape, as well as under-the-radar winners like Brezza, Manzone, and Elio Grasso. If this introductory list below tells us one thing, it's that the 2021 Barolo campaign is going to offer immense enjoyment for collectors and Piedmont fans as they stock the cellar with one incredible wine after another. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Felsina Chianti Classico Riserva (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat." With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues. Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank. This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Massolino Barolo Parafada (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "Two thousand twenty-one is a superb vintage for Barolo." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous The hype has been going for some time now, but you never know just how good or great a vintage can be until the wines hit the market. Now that the 2021 Barolos are here, it's clear that the early praise and accolades are well warranted. Apart from a few isolated weather events, the growing season was ideal by modern Barolo standards, with a long cycle and normal harvest time. Normal diurnal temperature shifts and heat patterns also contributed to the incredible overall quality that is becoming evident in the finished wines. As Galloni notes in his comprehensive vintage report, "The 2021 Barolos are finessed, elegant wines that will delight Piedmont fans." Against this backdrop, we present a staggering array of the vintage's most compelling recent releases, over forty wines spanning entry-level gems and values for near-term enjoyment to cult-caliber cellar performers that will show the 2021 vintage in all its glory decades down the road. Names like Vietti, Vajra, and Gaja dot the landscape, as well as under-the-radar winners like Brezza, Manzone, and Elio Grasso. If this introductory list below tells us one thing, it's that the 2021 Barolo campaign is going to offer immense enjoyment for collectors and Piedmont fans as they stock the cellar with one incredible wine after another. | ||
|
||
| 2019 Muga Prado Enea Gran Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
|
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, 99-point 2021 Torre Muga. The 2021 Rioja vintage is already garnering rave reviews in the press, and the 99-point 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 2020 Selección Especial Reserva 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." The 97-point 2019 Prado Enea is unquestionably one for the ages. Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and 2019 rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. Luis Gutierrez' 97-point review in Wine Advocate is just the first of what's sure to be another raft of critical praise for the 2019, as it takes its place among the greats. Muga fans know that Prado Enea isn't made every year – no 2017 or 2018 was made, for instance – so when it does appear, we can be virtually assured that it's going to be a showstopper. With its "phenomenal" aromatic profile and a palate built on "power and elegance and very good aging potential," this is collectible Rioja class at its very best, and it's now available to our private clients at a must-see price that you won't find anywhere else. Finally, Muga's incredible fan-favorite Blanco and Rosado absolutely shine in the newly released 2025 renditions. The 93-point 2025 Blanco is "super balanced, clean and focused, serious and chalky" according to Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez, while Joaquin Hidalgo calls it "a particularly successful vintage for this bottling." The 2025 Rosado notched 92 points for its "fresh and energetic [style] with fine texture and a sleek, nervy flow." From collectibles to everyday showstoppers, Muga is clearly at the top of their game once again, and Spanish wine lovers have a plethora of surefire options to fit every need in they might have, for the cellar or tonight's dinner table. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Felsina Chianti Classico Berardenga (375ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat." With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues. Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank. This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "BV is arguably one of the most improved estates in Napa Valley over the last few years. Today’s wines offer terrific energy in a style that marries textural resonances with vibrancy." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous If you're looking for sure bets in Napa Cabernet, you can't do much better than Beaulieu Vineyards in an outstanding vintage, and this trio from the monumental 2021 and 2023 vintages is a must-see for any avid fan or collector. The 2023 BV Napa Valley Cabernet cements its place as one of the category's great value propositions. A double 94-point gem for under $40, it's "succulent, layered and generous ... An excellent release of this wine with all the traditional hallmarks," as noted by James Suckling. Legendary Napa pedigree and a benchmark vintage come together to form a top-tier overachiever in the 2021 BV Tapestry Reserve. Often known as "Baby Latour", it's a lovely precursor to the estate's iconic flagship wine, at a fraction of the price. Not only that, but the 2021 also boasts some impressive accolades, led by a 96-point score from James Suckling, who declares it "one of the best I have had." The vintage's outstanding growing conditions resulted in a wine with "excellent length and serious tension" between plush fruit and precisely executed structure. Jeb Dunnuck declares, "It's medium to full-bodied, with a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Bravo to the team at Beaulieu for delivering this level of quality." Following on the heels of star-studded vintages like 2018 and 2019, the 2021 BV Georges de Latour Reserve is "outrageously beautiful, writes Galloni. "A wine of statuesque build and class, the 2021 represents another major step forward for BV." It offers collectors a level of sophistication and elegance that simply adds one more dimension to one of the world's great Cabernets. With three 98-point scores carrying the critical line, the 2021 "does everything right" according to Jeb Dunnuck, and avid collectors of this Napa legend will be thrilled to have it in their cellars. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Torre Muga (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
|
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, 99-point 2021 Torre Muga. The 2021 Rioja vintage is already garnering rave reviews in the press, and the 99-point 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 2020 Selección Especial Reserva 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." The 97-point 2019 Prado Enea is unquestionably one for the ages. Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and 2019 rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. Luis Gutierrez' 97-point review in Wine Advocate is just the first of what's sure to be another raft of critical praise for the 2019, as it takes its place among the greats. Muga fans know that Prado Enea isn't made every year – no 2017 or 2018 was made, for instance – so when it does appear, we can be virtually assured that it's going to be a showstopper. With its "phenomenal" aromatic profile and a palate built on "power and elegance and very good aging potential," this is collectible Rioja class at its very best, and it's now available to our private clients at a must-see price that you won't find anywhere else. Finally, Muga's incredible fan-favorite Blanco and Rosado absolutely shine in the newly released 2025 renditions. The 93-point 2025 Blanco is "super balanced, clean and focused, serious and chalky" according to Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez, while Joaquin Hidalgo calls it "a particularly successful vintage for this bottling." The 2025 Rosado notched 92 points for its "fresh and energetic [style] with fine texture and a sleek, nervy flow." From collectibles to everyday showstoppers, Muga is clearly at the top of their game once again, and Spanish wine lovers have a plethora of surefire options to fit every need in they might have, for the cellar or tonight's dinner table. | ||
|
||
| 2019 Domaine Nicolas Rossignol Chevret 1er Cru (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Volnay, Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More Our long-time Rossignol fans have a lot to look forward to as we're kicking into high gear with his long-awaited 2022s. As many of you know, Rossignol doesn't release his wines on the same schedule as everyone else. He basically sends them to market when he feels like it, so we've been waiting patiently for these for quite some time. Well, that time is now, starting with a stellar value pick to whet your whistle in the excellent 2022 Bourgogne Rouge. Sourced from Rossignol's village plots in Pommard and Volnay (he has so many!), it's a wine of real pedigree, and of course the winemaker's talents go a long way toward making this perform like a classic village wine. It's really the best of both worlds, exhibiting in equal measure everything Burgundy fans love about Volnay and Pommard, so you can count on a stellar performance. Best of all, the 2022 vintage's compact, robust character endows the wine with plenty of substance to take on more complexity with a few years in bottle. Turning to his single-vineyard wines, his renowned Volnays were impressive, of course, but the real winners during our tasting last October were a pair of hidden-gem 1er crus, the Savigny-les-Beaune Les Fourneaux and the Pernand-Vergelesses Les Fichots. The Fourneaux vineyard shares all the attributes of its more famous neighbors, the 1ers crus Vergelesses and Lavieres, but it hasn't seen quite the price jump as the other two in recent years, which is all to the good, of course. After all, the gentle slope and south-west exposure give a profile that can appeal to a huge audience of Burgundy collectors, so much so that the 2019 and 2020 vintages of this wine were some of our top sellers of those campaigns. The 2022 Fourneaux exhibits "silky, laced textures, the most sensual perfumes with restrained underlying power and richness with complexity and intrigue," all hallmarks of the site and the purest expressions of the 2022 vintage. Pernand is also becoming a hotbed of overperforming cellar contenders, and it's bottlings like Rossignol's 2022 Fichots that demonstrate the top-shelf potential of this rising-star appellation. It won't be long before these wines are mentioned in the same conversation as top bottlings from Pernand's more famous neighboring appellations. Fichots' nearly flat topography at the bottom of the valley makes it unique among 1er crus in the appellation, but its full exposure to sun means the grapes ripen with remarkable precision and consistency, while the shallow limestone soils, which it shares with the neighboring Hill of Corton, endow its wines with real structural presence. Of course, his 1er crus in Volnay, Beaune, and Pommard nearly always produce benchmark expressions in their own right, and you'll find exactly that in the 2022 Reversees, Charmot, and Les Vignots, as well as a pristine cellar gem in the 2019 Mitans, Rossignol seems to have truly nailed the warm 2022 vintage, as the wines themselves display plenty of prominent, expressive dark fruits, but the site signatures also come through in spades, as does Rossignol's top-tier winemaking skills. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Rudi Pichler Gruner Veltliner Smaragd Achleiten (750ml) | ||
| Gruner Veltliner from Wachau, Niederosterreich, Austria | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "...the [2024s] have beautiful concentration and real tension. Well done." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous Arguably one of the top three estate in the Wachau, Rudi Pichler is a unanimous reference-point for the region, and there are few, if any, estates that have the same wherewithal to spin absolute gold out of a difficult vintage. Old vines, steep slopes, and Rudi's uncompromising, meticulous skills turned out a range of stunning expressions that are easily among the best in the category. From the beautifully balanced, 94-point Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Terrassen to the towering excellence of the 98-point Riesling and Grüner Smaragds from the Achleiten site, the entire range is comprised of must-have benchmarks for serious Austrian fans. Savvy buyers will not overlook the "exquisite purity and expression" of the double 96-point Riesling Smaragd Kirchweg or the equally "stunning" Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Kollmutz. These are just a few of the highlights in an entire line-up that sets the bar for the vintage, and to top it all off, don't miss the very last stocks of the equally prodigious 2023s, still available at remarkable pricing. | ||
|
||
| 2024 Rudi Pichler Gruner Veltliner Federspiel Wachau (750ml) | ||
| Gruner Veltliner from Wachau, Niederosterreich, Austria | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "...the [2024s] have beautiful concentration and real tension. Well done." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous Arguably one of the top three estate in the Wachau, Rudi Pichler is a unanimous reference-point for the region, and there are few, if any, estates that have the same wherewithal to spin absolute gold out of a difficult vintage. Old vines, steep slopes, and Rudi's uncompromising, meticulous skills turned out a range of stunning expressions that are easily among the best in the category. From the beautifully balanced, 94-point Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Terrassen to the towering excellence of the 98-point Riesling and Grüner Smaragds from the Achleiten site, the entire range is comprised of must-have benchmarks for serious Austrian fans. Savvy buyers will not overlook the "exquisite purity and expression" of the double 96-point Riesling Smaragd Kirchweg or the equally "stunning" Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Kollmutz. These are just a few of the highlights in an entire line-up that sets the bar for the vintage, and to top it all off, don't miss the very last stocks of the equally prodigious 2023s, still available at remarkable pricing. | ||
|
||
| 2021 Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Roncicone (750ml) | ||
| Sangiovese from Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy | ||
|
6 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 true Chianti standouts. The double-96-point 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. Savvy buyers also shouldn't overlook the 2023 Brolio Chianti Classico, a superb, case-buy value choice that offer overperforming quality for everyday enjoyment. "Pure, energetic, and very approachable," this WS92 gem is the epitome of a crowd-pleasing Chianti. 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. | ||
|
||
| 2017 Chateau Troplong Mondot (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France | ||
|
6 B-21 Top Recommendation Read More Here's an exciting opportunity to enjoy a vertical of outstanding new releases from Chateau Troplong Mondot, three incredibly promising vintages garnering multiple 100 pt. scores and wowing critics across the board, each built for three decades of pleasurable drinking and unbeatably priced to over deliver value. Perched in a spectacular location with a 360-degree view overlooking St. Emilion, Chateau Troplong Mondot is marked by the prominent water tower at St. Emilion's highest point, its stunning new cellars viewed from above on a glass catwalk reflecting the estate's dramatic transformation since its purchase by insurance company SCOR in 2017. Immediately hiring Bordeaux veteran Aymeric de Gironde, formerly of Pichon Baron and Cos d'Estournel, to lead the estate, Troplong Mondot pivoted to a classical, terroir-driven style, identifying the unique qualities of even the smallest parcels of its organically farmed 65 hectares of vineyards and reducing the amount of new oak to allow their rich minerality to shine through, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as reflecting "a more evident respect for the powerful terroir that does not need to be overly dressed up" under the guidance of renowned consulting enologist Thomas Duclos. Vinified in vats instead of barrels to preserve freshness, the 98 pt. 2018 Chateau Troplong Mondot is "simply breathtaking" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, aged in 60% new oak with a small percentage in large vats and amphorae to yield a Troplong with "brighter red fruit flavors" that's "backed by a distinct flinty minerality" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth. The 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Troplong Mondot is "wonderfully exuberant right out of the gate" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous, with aromatic, rich dark fruit described as "powerful and dense" by the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss that "ends with a whoosh of freshness and lift" according to Jane Anson. Describing these recent vintages as marking "the upward trajectory and unveiling of the new expression of this very special site at Troplong Mondot," the Wine Advocate's William Kelley declared, "what an exhilarating ride this is!" while Jeb Dunnuck unequivocally declares "there is no denying the incredible quality from this chateau today" – these value priced Chateau Troplong Mondot selections offering an exciting opportunity for Bordeaux fans and collectors to mix a case or pick a few favorites and jump aboard St. Emilion's rising star for the thrilling journey ahead. | ||
|
||
| Ardnamurchan Sherry Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ||
| From Ardnamurchan, Highlands, Scotland | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "All in all, this is a fabulously complex and intriguing dram, while at the same time being just a pure joy to drink." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer It's been a while, but this fantastic, boutique, fan-favorite single malt is back in stock! Established in 2014, Ardnamurchan is relatively new in the Highland scene, but they've got their feet fully under them, and they've been the talk to the town in Scotch circles for a few years now. The commitment to world-class quality is evident in everything from the distillery's facilities to their production, aging, and blending, resulting in a number of awards and recognitions in several recent industry publications and competitions. Working with artfully crafted distillate in both peated and unpeated form, these are some of the most compelling new Highland malts to hit the market in some time, highlighted by this flat-out stupendous Sherry Cask release. At a mere 2,000 bottles imported into the US, it's already in high demand and rightly so. Blended from 20 unpeated sherry hoggies and 15 peated, quite active sherry butts, this is everything that fans of sherried Scotch are looking for. The cask influence takes center stage, with an expertly managed peat component playing perfect counter to the opulence of the oloroso in exquisitely precision fashion throughout. "It's one of those brilliant expressions that steps right up to the line of being too much of a good thing, without crossing it," notes B-21 Spirits Buyer Andrew Kitz. Best of all, while many boutique, sherry-aged single malts are hitting eye-popping prices, Ardnamurchan's remains a relative steal, but who's to say how long that'll be the case, if they keep turning out releases like this. | ||
|
||
| 2023 Rudi Pichler Riesling Smaragd Achleiten (750ml) | ||
| Riesling from Wachau, Niederosterreich, Austria | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More "...the [2024s] have beautiful concentration and real tension. Well done." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous Arguably one of the top three estate in the Wachau, Rudi Pichler is a unanimous reference-point for the region, and there are few, if any, estates that have the same wherewithal to spin absolute gold out of a difficult vintage. Old vines, steep slopes, and Rudi's uncompromising, meticulous skills turned out a range of stunning expressions that are easily among the best in the category. From the beautifully balanced, 94-point Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Terrassen to the towering excellence of the 98-point Riesling and Grüner Smaragds from the Achleiten site, the entire range is comprised of must-have benchmarks for serious Austrian fans. Savvy buyers will not overlook the "exquisite purity and expression" of the double 96-point Riesling Smaragd Kirchweg or the equally "stunning" Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Kollmutz. These are just a few of the highlights in an entire line-up that sets the bar for the vintage, and to top it all off, don't miss the very last stocks of the equally prodigious 2023s, still available at remarkable pricing. | ||
|
||
| 2022 Domaine Nicolas Rossignol Bourgogne Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Burgundy, France | ||
|
B-21 Top Recommendation Read More Our long-time Rossignol fans have a lot to look forward to as we're kicking into high gear with his long-awaited 2022s. As many of you know, Rossignol doesn't release his wines on the same schedule as everyone else. He basically sends them to market when he feels like it, so we've been waiting patiently for these for quite some time. Well, that time is now, starting with a stellar value pick to whet your whistle in the excellent 2022 Bourgogne Rouge. Sourced from Rossignol's village plots in Pommard and Volnay (he has so many!), it's a wine of real pedigree, and of course the winemaker's talents go a long way toward making this perform like a classic village wine. It's really the best of both worlds, exhibiting in equal measure everything Burgundy fans love about Volnay and Pommard, so you can count on a stellar performance. Best of all, the 2022 vintage's compact, robust character endows the wine with plenty of substance to take on more complexity with a few years in bottle. Turning to his single-vineyard wines, his renowned Volnays were impressive, of course, but the real winners during our tasting last October were a pair of hidden-gem 1er crus, the Savigny-les-Beaune Les Fourneaux and the Pernand-Vergelesses Les Fichots. The Fourneaux vineyard shares all the attributes of its more famous neighbors, the 1ers crus Vergelesses and Lavieres, but it hasn't seen quite the price jump as the other two in recent years, which is all to the good, of course. After all, the gentle slope and south-west exposure give a profile that can appeal to a huge audience of Burgundy collectors, so much so that the 2019 and 2020 vintages of this wine were some of our top sellers of those campaigns. The 2022 Fourneaux exhibits "silky, laced textures, the most sensual perfumes with restrained underlying power and richness with complexity and intrigue," all hallmarks of the site and the purest expressions of the 2022 vintage. Pernand is also becoming a hotbed of overperforming cellar contenders, and it's bottlings like Rossignol's 2022 Fichots that demonstrate the top-shelf potential of this rising-star appellation. It won't be long before these wines are mentioned in the same conversation as top bottlings from Pernand's more famous neighboring appellations. Fichots' nearly flat topography at the bottom of the valley makes it unique among 1er crus in the appellation, but its full exposure to sun means the grapes ripen with remarkable precision and consistency, while the shallow limestone soils, which it shares with the neighboring Hill of Corton, endow its wines with real structural presence. Of course, his 1er crus in Volnay, Beaune, and Pommard nearly always produce benchmark expressions in their own right, and you'll find exactly that in the 2022 Reversees, Charmot, and Les Vignots, as well as a pristine cellar gem in the 2019 Mitans, Rossignol seems to have truly nailed the warm 2022 vintage, as the wines themselves display plenty of prominent, expressive dark fruits, but the site signatures also come through in spades, as does Rossignol's top-tier winemaking skills. | ||
|
||