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| 2019 Chateau Cantemerle (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of high scoring Bordeaux, all under $40! From some of the region's most undervalued estates, these "three lollipop" selections hit the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of age worthy blends unbeatably priced for Bordeaux bargain hunters to stock the cellar and enjoy often.
Whether deciding on a few favorites or finding it hard to choose, these high scoring Bordeaux blends are bargain priced for mixing a case, a sweet deal for anyone seeking to pull the cork on a terrific Bordeaux more often. | ||
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| 2022 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Consistently earning critical acclaim vintage over vintage including the #4 spot on the Wine Spectator's Top 100, the decadent 2022 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon continues the Faust reputation for over delivering value, an immensely satisfying Napa Cab from the founder of Quintessa offering an enticing combination of fresh, opulent dark fruit and lush, velvety tannins, unbeatably priced for Napa Cab fans to scoop up by the case and enjoy often. Located just past Beringer heading north on Highway 29, Faust chose to open its new sleek tasting and event center in a once run down Victorian on a hillside near Healdsburg, using it as an opportunity to expose visitors to Napa's lesser-known, less-visited Coombsville AVA 20 minutes to the south where the Faust vineyard is located. Recognizing the cooler region's potential for growing Cabernet Sauvignon over a decade before it became an AVA in 2001, former Concha y Toro CEO and longtime California vintner Agustin Huneeus established Faust on the site of a former dairy farm in 1998, the early vintages of Faust establishing the reputation of Coombsville as a site capable of producing high-quality, complex Cabs and attracting a who's who of celebrated winemakers to the area including Andy Erickson and Paul Hobbs. Located just east of the town of Napa, the certified organic 128-acre Faust vineyard is planted in rich gravelly loam and volcanic rock soils that enhance minerality while the nearby cup and saucer like ridge coined the 'Coombsville caldera' funnels winds from the San Pablo Bay and create conditions for extended, gradual ripening. Blending 86% Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc primarily from Faust's Coombsville site, former Harlan and Groth winemaker David Jelinek aged the 2022 Faust for 20 months in 25% new French oak barrels, yielding a bold and pleasurable Cab with elegant, plush fruit and bright acidity built to age gracefully over the next decade. Declaring the AVA "Napa Valley's Rising Star," the Wine Enthusiast called Coombsville a top choice for "buyers that desire something new from Napa," the 2022 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon living up to its reputation as an exceptional, cellar worthy Napa Cab reflecting the pioneering winemaking legacy of Quintessa founder Agustin Huneeus at an incredible bargain price. | ||
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| 2021 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Margaret River on the west coast of Australia has arguably been the most dynamic region Down Under for at least the past decade, and the pioneering Vasse Felix estate has been at the forefront of this emergence since its founding in the late 1960s.From collectible trophies on down to the entry-level end of the spectrum, this estate has been "one of the region's standard bearers" according to Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski. it's that entry-level, quality-to-price charm that makes this pair on offer today such compelling propositions for any fan of Cabernet and Chardonnay value, no matter where it's from. The 2021 Filius Cabernet is already a proven best seller at B-21, having notched 93 points from Wine Spectator as well as the #2 spot on their annual Top 10 Wine Values list in 2023. "Stunning and complex, [a] stylish, concentrated red," the 2021 offers a quintessential Margaret River signature on top of pure Cabernet character that stands up to any expression in its price tier. If Chardonnay is your go-to white, then you can also add the 2023 Filius to your rotation. "Bright and expressive with plenty of precision," it more than earns its 94-point score from Wine Enthusiast, and with a sub-$20, case-buy price, it might just earn the top spot at all your summer get togethers. | ||
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| N.V. Patrick Bottex Bugey Cerdon Rose la Cueille (750ml) | ||
| Sparkling from Champagne, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More If you're a fan of sparkling rosé and you want to branch out from your regular rotation of Cremants, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more charming and expressive offering for the summer than Patrick Bottex's artfully crafted gem from Bugey-Cerdon. Despite being well off the beaten path, this appellation is an insider's favorite for value, and Bottex is the undisputed standard bearer. He and his wife Caroline farm approximately 6 hectares on the steep limestone slopes, where the crossroads of Burgundy, the Rhône, Jura, and Savoie all meet at the feet of the French Alps. Named for the hamlet where they live and work, the La Cuielle bottling is a perennial fan-favorite, transcending its relatively unknown regional origins to achieve a substantial following. Made almost entirely of Gamay with a dash of Poulsard for good measure, the La Cuielle is done in methode ancestral, which predates the more famous methode Champenois style. The result is a delightfully fruity, palate-pleasing sparkler of modest alcohol, crisp freshness, and touch of residual sweetness, characteristics that all lend themselves to incredible versatility. As the weather warms up and summer soirées kick into full swing, you'll need a surefire winner for all your pink sparkling needs, and Bottex's La Cuielle is ready to check all the boxes. | ||
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| 2021 Bodegas Muga 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 foursome of releases that we just secured at razor-sharp pricing. Leading off we have a Prado Enea for the ages. "The expressive, complex and nuanced 2016 Prado Enea Gran Reserva is a textbook traditional Rioja in the making ... with all the components in the right proportion to age superbly in bottle." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and this WA97+ rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. A universally lauded expression of this classic Rioja Gran Reserva, the 2016 boasts towering press including no fewer than four 97-point scores, putting it in rarified air among the greatest vintages of this Spanish icon in the 21st century. "A brilliant wine with a solid two decades of prime drinking ahead of it" per Jeb Dunnuck, 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. 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 newly released 2021 Reserva Rioja is 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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| 2019 Ormes de Pez (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of high scoring Bordeaux, all under $40! From some of the region's most undervalued estates, these "three lollipop" selections hit the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of age worthy blends unbeatably priced for Bordeaux bargain hunters to stock the cellar and enjoy often.
Whether deciding on a few favorites or finding it hard to choose, these high scoring Bordeaux blends are bargain priced for mixing a case, a sweet deal for anyone seeking to pull the cork on a terrific Bordeaux more often. | ||
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| 2021 Vajra Barolo Albe (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stylistically, the Vajra Barolos embody all the virtues of modern classicism. The wines are elegant, silky, polished and an absolute delight to drink." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous You know the name, and perhaps you already know that the 2021 vintage in Barolo is one for the books, so let's jump right into this set of stunning new releases from "one of the leading estates in Piedmont." As any astute Barolo collector knows, a great vintage is marked not only by the heights that the top wines reach, but by the overall quality of the entry-level offerings, and Vajra's flagship Albe bottling knocks it out of the park in 2021. Wine Advocate's Monica Larner tagged it with 95 points and called it "an enormously versatile expression of Nebbiolo, with an affordable price, that offers more value for your money than most Barolos out there," with several other critics chiming in with their own glowing praise for a serious sub-$40 contender. Movnig to the single crus, Vajra's enviable stable is a star-studded affiair in this benchmark campaign, led by a pair of 98-point collectible treasures in the Ravera and Bricco della Viole, the latter "a wine of stature and breeding" showcasing "little details [that] emerge with terrific sharpness in an epic vintage such as 2021." Of course, we shouldn't overlook the 96-point Coste di Rose. "Loaded with finesse" per Kerin O'Keefe, "[it's] already tempting, [but] the best is yet to come." It's safe to say this is one of the must-have ranges in 2021 Barolo, so collectors should make room in the cellar and cast a wide net on these guaranteed long-haul trophies. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Poujeaux (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Moulis-en-Medoc, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of high scoring Bordeaux, all under $40! From some of the region's most undervalued estates, these "three lollipop" selections hit the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of age worthy blends unbeatably priced for Bordeaux bargain hunters to stock the cellar and enjoy often.
Whether deciding on a few favorites or finding it hard to choose, these high scoring Bordeaux blends are bargain priced for mixing a case, a sweet deal for anyone seeking to pull the cork on a terrific Bordeaux more often. | ||
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| 2016 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 foursome of releases that we just secured at razor-sharp pricing. Leading off we have a Prado Enea for the ages. "The expressive, complex and nuanced 2016 Prado Enea Gran Reserva is a textbook traditional Rioja in the making ... with all the components in the right proportion to age superbly in bottle." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and this WA97+ rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. A universally lauded expression of this classic Rioja Gran Reserva, the 2016 boasts towering press including no fewer than four 97-point scores, putting it in rarified air among the greatest vintages of this Spanish icon in the 21st century. "A brilliant wine with a solid two decades of prime drinking ahead of it" per Jeb Dunnuck, 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. 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 newly released 2021 Reserva Rioja is 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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| 2012 Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Continuing our roll-out of new arrivals from the iconic Lopez de Heredia, the 2012 Viña Tondonia is every bit the standout cellar value we thought it would be from this excellent vintage. "All you can expect from a classical Viña Tondonia with its focused intensity and muscular yet very elegant tannins." - Decanter A rarity in Rioja, Lopez de Heredia uses only estate-grown fruit from their own vineyards, sourcing the 2012 Viña Tondonia Reserva from the spectacular 100-hectare vineyard of the same name, situated in a shell-like depression next to the river Ebro along the border of Rioja Alavesa, with vines averaging over 40 years old and some over 100. From a warm, dry vintage that resulted in ideal phenolic and physiological ripeness, the 2012 handles its six years in barrel with remarkable ease, "a beautiful old-school Rioja" of the highest caliber. There's not much we need tout about this wine, as the Tondonia's track record speaks for itself. Through some sharp negotiation and excellent timing, we just negotiated a parcel at jaw-dropping pricing that simply too low to publish online, but our private clients can still reap all the rewards and stock the cellar big time. | ||
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| 2019 Labegorce (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A sweet deal on a cellar worthy assortment of high scoring Bordeaux, all under $40! From some of the region's most undervalued estates, these "three lollipop" selections hit the sweet spot for Bordeaux lovers seeking outstanding value, a range of age worthy blends unbeatably priced for Bordeaux bargain hunters to stock the cellar and enjoy often.
Whether deciding on a few favorites or finding it hard to choose, these high scoring Bordeaux blends are bargain priced for mixing a case, a sweet deal for anyone seeking to pull the cork on a terrific Bordeaux more often. | ||
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| 2021 Frog's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "A rather dark, meaty, and savoury expression from this iconic Rutherford Estate ... Fresh, balanced, quite complex, and quite cellar-worthy." - Decanter A pioneer of dry farming in Napa Valley, Frog's Leap has been a long-time exponent of the quintessential Rutherford style, making them a beloved, best-selling name among Napa Cab fans. The outstanding 2021 vintage sees this historic estate hit another high mark with their Estate Cabernet hitting 95 points from Decanter. "Classically styled stuff" according to Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski, you'll find all the hallmark "Rutherford dust" as the AVA's red soil terroir is known, along with dense, brooding, primary fruit that harkens back to a style of Napa Cabernet that we don't often see nowadays. Add to that the exceptional quality of the 2021 growing season, and you have another fan favorite in the making whether you want to enjoy it now or cellar it for the next decade plus to allow it to reach its full potential. | ||
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| 2023 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Pure Roussanne (750ml) | ||
| Roussanne from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stephan Usseglio has propelled this certified organic and biodynamic estate, named for his father, to among the top ranks of the region." - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate The name Usseglio is no secret to lovers of top-flight Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but it's typically PIerre that comes to mind for many. However, that's all changing in recent years, as Domaine Raymond Usseglio is stepping into the limelight under the hand of the highly talented Stephan Usseglio. Having been in charge here since 1999 at the ripe age of 22, Stephan straddles that wonderful line between youthful vision, something he's held onto even as his career has entered a new stage of accomplishment and accolades, and respect for his family's traditions, including their exceptional vine holdings. The 2022 reds from Usseglio offer a crystal clear picture of a domaine firing on all cylinders and moving up in the quality heirarchy to the very top echelons, highlighted by the JS95 Cuvée Girard, a "dark and powerful" rendition that "makes a bold statement." Taking Grenache purity to the next level is the 2022 Cuvée Imperiale. "With ultra-fine tannins, flawless overall balance, and a great finish," notes Jeb Dunnuck, "it's a gem in the vintage." Finally, fans and collectors should not overlook the absolutely pristine 2023 Pure Roussanne, a 97-point tour de force that is everything as advertised - pure Roussanne varietal character that shows this revered white Rhône varietal in all its glory. This in-stock trio is further proof that the domaine should be on any serious Rhône enthusiasts short list, as these expressions are some of the most polished and artfully crafted offerings you'll find in the region. | ||
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| 2020 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial (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 foursome of releases that we just secured at razor-sharp pricing. Leading off we have a Prado Enea for the ages. "The expressive, complex and nuanced 2016 Prado Enea Gran Reserva is a textbook traditional Rioja in the making ... with all the components in the right proportion to age superbly in bottle." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Muga's flagship bottling is always a coveted item, and this WA97+ rendition is already showing legendary pedigree that will thrill collectors and connoisseurs of Spain's finest. A universally lauded expression of this classic Rioja Gran Reserva, the 2016 boasts towering press including no fewer than four 97-point scores, putting it in rarified air among the greatest vintages of this Spanish icon in the 21st century. "A brilliant wine with a solid two decades of prime drinking ahead of it" per Jeb Dunnuck, 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. 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 newly released 2021 Reserva Rioja is 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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| 2023 Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Margaret River on the west coast of Australia has arguably been the most dynamic region Down Under for at least the past decade, and the pioneering Vasse Felix estate has been at the forefront of this emergence since its founding in the late 1960s.From collectible trophies on down to the entry-level end of the spectrum, this estate has been "one of the region's standard bearers" according to Wine Advocate's Joe Czerwinski. it's that entry-level, quality-to-price charm that makes this pair on offer today such compelling propositions for any fan of Cabernet and Chardonnay value, no matter where it's from. The 2021 Filius Cabernet is already a proven best seller at B-21, having notched 93 points from Wine Spectator as well as the #2 spot on their annual Top 10 Wine Values list in 2023. "Stunning and complex, [a] stylish, concentrated red," the 2021 offers a quintessential Margaret River signature on top of pure Cabernet character that stands up to any expression in its price tier. If Chardonnay is your go-to white, then you can also add the 2023 Filius to your rotation. "Bright and expressive with plenty of precision," it more than earns its 94-point score from Wine Enthusiast, and with a sub-$20, case-buy price, it might just earn the top spot at all your summer get togethers. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Girard (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stephan Usseglio has propelled this certified organic and biodynamic estate, named for his father, to among the top ranks of the region." - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate The name Usseglio is no secret to lovers of top-flight Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but it's typically PIerre that comes to mind for many. However, that's all changing in recent years, as Domaine Raymond Usseglio is stepping into the limelight under the hand of the highly talented Stephan Usseglio. Having been in charge here since 1999 at the ripe age of 22, Stephan straddles that wonderful line between youthful vision, something he's held onto even as his career has entered a new stage of accomplishment and accolades, and respect for his family's traditions, including their exceptional vine holdings. The 2022 reds from Usseglio offer a crystal clear picture of a domaine firing on all cylinders and moving up in the quality heirarchy to the very top echelons, highlighted by the JS95 Cuvée Girard, a "dark and powerful" rendition that "makes a bold statement." Taking Grenache purity to the next level is the 2022 Cuvée Imperiale. "With ultra-fine tannins, flawless overall balance, and a great finish," notes Jeb Dunnuck, "it's a gem in the vintage." Finally, fans and collectors should not overlook the absolutely pristine 2023 Pure Roussanne, a 97-point tour de force that is everything as advertised - pure Roussanne varietal character that shows this revered white Rhône varietal in all its glory. This in-stock trio is further proof that the domaine should be on any serious Rhône enthusiasts short list, as these expressions are some of the most polished and artfully crafted offerings you'll find in the region. | ||
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| 2021 Long Shadows Feather Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Columbia, Washington State | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most consistently excellent and intriguing projects in Washington wine, Long Shadows is basically an assembly of all-star winemakers applying their world-class skills to some of the best fruit in the state, and it's no wonder that the 2021 Feather Cabernet Sauvignon is the most impressive wine in the stable, as it comes from the hand of none other than Napa Valley icon Randy Dunn. "This rich, spicy, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has terrific purity, a deep, layered mid-palate, and a broad, layered, expansive mouthfeel that keeps you coming back to the glass," notes Jeb Dunnuck. This cult-caliber expression captures all the hallmark features that put the finest Washington Cabs in a class all their own. With the help of one of the world's best consulting winemakers in Philippe Melka, Gilles Nicault has developed the Pirouette into a standout, Old World-inspired Bordeaux blend that's simultaneously pure Washington at heart, "a medium to full-bodied, nicely balanced, dense 2020 offering ripe tannins and outstanding length." The 2020 Pirouette is a true showcase of Nicault's blending skills, with top-flight Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot playing starring roles, supported by dashes of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec sourced from some of the appellation's most acclaimed sites, including Dionysus and Weinbau. The result is a wine that's "velvety smooth yet lifted in feel," displaying all the various varietal features in due course, along with classic Red Mountain structure and texture that tell you exactly where the wine comes from. Finally, we have the 2020 Pedestal Columbia Valley Merlot that has been setting the bar for the category since its inception. Sourced from two premier sites on the Wahluke Slope, this top-flight expression boasts all the quintessential hallmarks that make Washington such a hotbed for collectible Merlot bottlings that rival the best from Napa and Bordeaux. Dunnuck declares, I loved the 2020 Merlot Pedestal, which makes the most of the vintage ... it's concentrated, has ripe, chalky tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish." In other words, you have everything you're looking for in a "luscious and round" 94-point rendition that will shine for years in the cellar. | ||
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| 2023 Pascal Bonhomme Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes (750ml) | ||
| Chardonnay from Macon, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is great Mâconnais chardonnay!" - John Gilman, View From the Cellar B-21 Burgundy fans are well familiar with Pascal Bonhomme's Vire-Clesse Vieilles Vignes, making it an undisputed best-seller in the category over several vintages, but as happens from time to time, the wine fell off our radar for a few vintages. Recently, we went back to the importer to get a look at the newly arrived 2023 rendition, and we were thrilled (but not surprised) to find that it's better than ever. Bonhomme sources this wine from his oldest parcels, now approaching 70 years in age, so it exudes a quintessential combination of concentrated aromatics and flavors, along with "all of the vibrancy and freshness inherent in this lovely vintage" as Gilman notes. Our own Burgundy buyer Andrew Kitz also found the 2023 to be "a statement in grace and elegance ... [with] super-fine limestone minerality, fantastic balance and textural precision, medium weight, and excellent definition." Bonhomme's style is the classic white Burgundy profile that captures something for everyone. Nothing is ever overdone or lacking, so no matter what your tastes, you'll find plenty to love in this latest expression from a proven B-21 winner. | ||
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| 2021 Vajra Barolo Ravera (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stylistically, the Vajra Barolos embody all the virtues of modern classicism. The wines are elegant, silky, polished and an absolute delight to drink." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous You know the name, and perhaps you already know that the 2021 vintage in Barolo is one for the books, so let's jump right into this set of stunning new releases from "one of the leading estates in Piedmont." As any astute Barolo collector knows, a great vintage is marked not only by the heights that the top wines reach, but by the overall quality of the entry-level offerings, and Vajra's flagship Albe bottling knocks it out of the park in 2021. Wine Advocate's Monica Larner tagged it with 95 points and called it "an enormously versatile expression of Nebbiolo, with an affordable price, that offers more value for your money than most Barolos out there," with several other critics chiming in with their own glowing praise for a serious sub-$40 contender. Movnig to the single crus, Vajra's enviable stable is a star-studded affiair in this benchmark campaign, led by a pair of 98-point collectible treasures in the Ravera and Bricco della Viole, the latter "a wine of stature and breeding" showcasing "little details [that] emerge with terrific sharpness in an epic vintage such as 2021." Of course, we shouldn't overlook the 96-point Coste di Rose. "Loaded with finesse" per Kerin O'Keefe, "[it's] already tempting, [but] the best is yet to come." It's safe to say this is one of the must-have ranges in 2021 Barolo, so collectors should make room in the cellar and cast a wide net on these guaranteed long-haul trophies. | ||
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| 2021 Vajra Bricco delle Viole (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stylistically, the Vajra Barolos embody all the virtues of modern classicism. The wines are elegant, silky, polished and an absolute delight to drink." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous You know the name, and perhaps you already know that the 2021 vintage in Barolo is one for the books, so let's jump right into this set of stunning new releases from "one of the leading estates in Piedmont." As any astute Barolo collector knows, a great vintage is marked not only by the heights that the top wines reach, but by the overall quality of the entry-level offerings, and Vajra's flagship Albe bottling knocks it out of the park in 2021. Wine Advocate's Monica Larner tagged it with 95 points and called it "an enormously versatile expression of Nebbiolo, with an affordable price, that offers more value for your money than most Barolos out there," with several other critics chiming in with their own glowing praise for a serious sub-$40 contender. Movnig to the single crus, Vajra's enviable stable is a star-studded affiair in this benchmark campaign, led by a pair of 98-point collectible treasures in the Ravera and Bricco della Viole, the latter "a wine of stature and breeding" showcasing "little details [that] emerge with terrific sharpness in an epic vintage such as 2021." Of course, we shouldn't overlook the 96-point Coste di Rose. "Loaded with finesse" per Kerin O'Keefe, "[it's] already tempting, [but] the best is yet to come." It's safe to say this is one of the must-have ranges in 2021 Barolo, so collectors should make room in the cellar and cast a wide net on these guaranteed long-haul trophies. | ||
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| 2021 Fontanabianca Barbaresco Bordini (750ml) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More From one of our most proven performers in Barbaresco, we have a spectacular opportunity on a single-vineyard stunner with a raft of critical accolades, from an epic vintage, and at a flat-out must-see price. Fontanabianca's Matteo Pola farms his family's outstanding vine holdings as they have for generations, and the results are some of the finest under-the-radar gems you'll find in Barbaresco, from their entry-level bottling to the insider-favorite, single-vineyard expressions like the 2021 Bordini. "The Fontanabianca 2021 Barbaresco Bordini, in the bottle with the black label, represents a step up in terms of focus and power..." - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate From a prized parcel very near to the Tanaro River, the Bordini offers a fantastic juxtaposition of body, depth, finesse, and elegance. The site's warm location and microclimate provides exceptional phenolic ripeness in the fruit, but the clay-limestone soils with their veins of sand endow the wine with effortless precision and grace, so Barbaresco collectors get the best of both worlds in one impeccable expression. A "stunning ,,, utterly delicious" offering with glowing accolades from several critics, led by Kerin O'Keefe's 96 points and 95 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2021 Fontanabianca Bordini is a no-brainer, razor-sharp buy for Piedmont collectors looking to maximize their collectible bang for the buck. | ||
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| 2020 Long Shadows Pedestal Merlot (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Columbia, Washington State | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most consistently excellent and intriguing projects in Washington wine, Long Shadows is basically an assembly of all-star winemakers applying their world-class skills to some of the best fruit in the state, and it's no wonder that the 2021 Feather Cabernet Sauvignon is the most impressive wine in the stable, as it comes from the hand of none other than Napa Valley icon Randy Dunn. "This rich, spicy, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has terrific purity, a deep, layered mid-palate, and a broad, layered, expansive mouthfeel that keeps you coming back to the glass," notes Jeb Dunnuck. This cult-caliber expression captures all the hallmark features that put the finest Washington Cabs in a class all their own. With the help of one of the world's best consulting winemakers in Philippe Melka, Gilles Nicault has developed the Pirouette into a standout, Old World-inspired Bordeaux blend that's simultaneously pure Washington at heart, "a medium to full-bodied, nicely balanced, dense 2020 offering ripe tannins and outstanding length." The 2020 Pirouette is a true showcase of Nicault's blending skills, with top-flight Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot playing starring roles, supported by dashes of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec sourced from some of the appellation's most acclaimed sites, including Dionysus and Weinbau. The result is a wine that's "velvety smooth yet lifted in feel," displaying all the various varietal features in due course, along with classic Red Mountain structure and texture that tell you exactly where the wine comes from. Finally, we have the 2020 Pedestal Columbia Valley Merlot that has been setting the bar for the category since its inception. Sourced from two premier sites on the Wahluke Slope, this top-flight expression boasts all the quintessential hallmarks that make Washington such a hotbed for collectible Merlot bottlings that rival the best from Napa and Bordeaux. Dunnuck declares, I loved the 2020 Merlot Pedestal, which makes the most of the vintage ... it's concentrated, has ripe, chalky tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish." In other words, you have everything you're looking for in a "luscious and round" 94-point rendition that will shine for years in the cellar. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Collotte Marsannay Les Champsalomon (750ml) | ||
| Pinot Noir from Côtes de Nuits, Burgundy, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More They say a rising tide lifts all boats, and as we've seen the overall quality level in Burgundy reach new heights, we've seen its lesser-known and lesser-regarded appellations step out of the shadows with some truly compelling efforts that can still be had for more than reasonable prices. Marsannay is often exhibit A in that conversation. "Collotte's 2022 Les Champsalomon is a beautifully crafted example of modern Marsannay that makes a convincing case that the appellation deserves more attention from Burgundy fans." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Burgundy Buyer Philippe Collotte, and now his daughter Isabelle, have always done things the right way – low yields, manual viticulture, minimalist winemaking – it's all done to give the very best expressions of their excellent, old-vine parcels in Marsannay. Their 0.8-hectare plot in Les Champsalomon is quintessential Marsannay terroir, and the Collotte's always de-stem completely, that terroir is free to shine in the finished wine. The 2022 is a prime bang-for-the-buck contender. Indeed, View From the Cellar's John Gilman calls it "outstanding ... a stunning value!" B-21 Burgundy Buyer Andrew Kitz was also duly impressed by "a surprising level of craftsmanship that should have you rethinking what Marsannay is all about." Truly, the only thing about this wine that fits the Marsannay sterotype is the sub-$40 price. Everything else points to a top-class effort with excellent cellar potential and over-delivering collectible appeal. | ||
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| 2022 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Imperiale (750ml) | ||
| Grenache from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stephan Usseglio has propelled this certified organic and biodynamic estate, named for his father, to among the top ranks of the region." - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate The name Usseglio is no secret to lovers of top-flight Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but it's typically PIerre that comes to mind for many. However, that's all changing in recent years, as Domaine Raymond Usseglio is stepping into the limelight under the hand of the highly talented Stephan Usseglio. Having been in charge here since 1999 at the ripe age of 22, Stephan straddles that wonderful line between youthful vision, something he's held onto even as his career has entered a new stage of accomplishment and accolades, and respect for his family's traditions, including their exceptional vine holdings. The 2022 reds from Usseglio offer a crystal clear picture of a domaine firing on all cylinders and moving up in the quality heirarchy to the very top echelons, highlighted by the JS95 Cuvée Girard, a "dark and powerful" rendition that "makes a bold statement." Taking Grenache purity to the next level is the 2022 Cuvée Imperiale. "With ultra-fine tannins, flawless overall balance, and a great finish," notes Jeb Dunnuck, "it's a gem in the vintage." Finally, fans and collectors should not overlook the absolutely pristine 2023 Pure Roussanne, a 97-point tour de force that is everything as advertised - pure Roussanne varietal character that shows this revered white Rhône varietal in all its glory. This in-stock trio is further proof that the domaine should be on any serious Rhône enthusiasts short list, as these expressions are some of the most polished and artfully crafted offerings you'll find in the region. | ||
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| 2022 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5L) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, California | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Consistently earning critical acclaim vintage over vintage including the #4 spot on the Wine Spectator's Top 100, the decadent 2022 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon continues the Faust reputation for over delivering value, an immensely satisfying Napa Cab from the founder of Quintessa offering an enticing combination of fresh, opulent dark fruit and lush, velvety tannins, unbeatably priced for Napa Cab fans to scoop up by the case and enjoy often. Located just past Beringer heading north on Highway 29, Faust chose to open its new sleek tasting and event center in a once run down Victorian on a hillside near Healdsburg, using it as an opportunity to expose visitors to Napa's lesser-known, less-visited Coombsville AVA 20 minutes to the south where the Faust vineyard is located. Recognizing the cooler region's potential for growing Cabernet Sauvignon over a decade before it became an AVA in 2001, former Concha y Toro CEO and longtime California vintner Agustin Huneeus established Faust on the site of a former dairy farm in 1998, the early vintages of Faust establishing the reputation of Coombsville as a site capable of producing high-quality, complex Cabs and attracting a who's who of celebrated winemakers to the area including Andy Erickson and Paul Hobbs. Located just east of the town of Napa, the certified organic 128-acre Faust vineyard is planted in rich gravelly loam and volcanic rock soils that enhance minerality while the nearby cup and saucer like ridge coined the 'Coombsville caldera' funnels winds from the San Pablo Bay and create conditions for extended, gradual ripening. Blending 86% Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc primarily from Faust's Coombsville site, former Harlan and Groth winemaker David Jelinek aged the 2022 Faust for 20 months in 25% new French oak barrels, yielding a bold and pleasurable Cab with elegant, plush fruit and bright acidity built to age gracefully over the next decade. Declaring the AVA "Napa Valley's Rising Star," the Wine Enthusiast called Coombsville a top choice for "buyers that desire something new from Napa," the 2022 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon living up to its reputation as an exceptional, cellar worthy Napa Cab reflecting the pioneering winemaking legacy of Quintessa founder Agustin Huneeus at an incredible bargain price. | ||
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| 2020 Long Shadows Pirouette Proprietary Red Blend (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Columbia, Washington State | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More One of the most consistently excellent and intriguing projects in Washington wine, Long Shadows is basically an assembly of all-star winemakers applying their world-class skills to some of the best fruit in the state, and it's no wonder that the 2021 Feather Cabernet Sauvignon is the most impressive wine in the stable, as it comes from the hand of none other than Napa Valley icon Randy Dunn. "This rich, spicy, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has terrific purity, a deep, layered mid-palate, and a broad, layered, expansive mouthfeel that keeps you coming back to the glass," notes Jeb Dunnuck. This cult-caliber expression captures all the hallmark features that put the finest Washington Cabs in a class all their own. With the help of one of the world's best consulting winemakers in Philippe Melka, Gilles Nicault has developed the Pirouette into a standout, Old World-inspired Bordeaux blend that's simultaneously pure Washington at heart, "a medium to full-bodied, nicely balanced, dense 2020 offering ripe tannins and outstanding length." The 2020 Pirouette is a true showcase of Nicault's blending skills, with top-flight Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot playing starring roles, supported by dashes of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec sourced from some of the appellation's most acclaimed sites, including Dionysus and Weinbau. The result is a wine that's "velvety smooth yet lifted in feel," displaying all the various varietal features in due course, along with classic Red Mountain structure and texture that tell you exactly where the wine comes from. Finally, we have the 2020 Pedestal Columbia Valley Merlot that has been setting the bar for the category since its inception. Sourced from two premier sites on the Wahluke Slope, this top-flight expression boasts all the quintessential hallmarks that make Washington such a hotbed for collectible Merlot bottlings that rival the best from Napa and Bordeaux. Dunnuck declares, I loved the 2020 Merlot Pedestal, which makes the most of the vintage ... it's concentrated, has ripe, chalky tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish." In other words, you have everything you're looking for in a "luscious and round" 94-point rendition that will shine for years in the cellar. | ||
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| Ardnamurchan AD Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ||
| From Ardnamurchan, Highlands, Scotland | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Ardnamurchan’s star is bright, and their commitment to excellence explains why even their entry-level core item is so damn good." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer 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 some of the most compelling new Highland malts to hit the market in some time. We firmly believe that any truly great distillery hits the marks at every point on the spectrum, and the entry-level offerings have to deliver the goods too, which is why Ardnamurchan has been such a thrilling discovery for us. Their flagship AD Single Malt is further proof of one of the sharpest blending teams in the business. Equal parts peated and unpeated malt offer up a distinctive take on Highland whisky, and the combination of ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks "fits the spirit like a glove," as B-21's Andrew Kitz notes. This overperforming whisky is a prime choice for a broad audience. With just enough peat character for fans of that style, it also showcases plenty of Highland elegance and complexity for a truly distinctive profile that you don't often find at this price point. No surprise then, when Andrew calls it quite possibly "the best QPR Scotch star on the shelf." | ||
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| PM Spirits Project Destilado de Agave Espadin | ||
| From Jalisco, Mexico | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "When we tasted this with PM Spirits’ Nicolas Palazzi, we knew straight away that we had to go all in." - Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer Full cask-strength bottlings are a relative rarity in the world of mezcal, and that's only one reason we jumped on this offering from PM Spirits. More than anything, it's immediately apparent that this is artisan mezcal of the highest order and the maestro who made it knows his craft. When Jason Cox, founder of 5 Sentidos, stumbled on this batch from mezcalero Rene Parada Barriga, he put in the hands of PM's Nicolas Palazzi, and the entire batch was soon on its way to Nicolas' warehouse. One snap decision after another, and we've picked up all of Nicolas' remaining supply of this highly limited edition, and one taste will prove our point. The varietal purity and focus are second to none, even for such a monumental spirit of 62% ABV, and the myriad layers of complexity are almost too much to describe in one go. As B-21's Andrew Kitz notes, "The push-pull tension of this mezcal is really something to experience, and I have no doubt that the more I go back to it, the more subtle nuances and facets I’ll find that I somehow missed the first time around." We secured all that was left at a must-see, market-best price and once this is batch is gone, we won't be seeing more of it. | ||
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| 2020 Telmo Rodriguez Pago la Jara (750ml) | ||
| Tempranillo from Castilla y Leon, Toro, Spain | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Telmo Rodriguez is an indisputable dynamo in Spanish wine, and we just landed an allocation of one of his most limited and sought-after cuvées. "It's quite classical, and it has power, concentration and ripeness with balance and freshness and a certain elegance." - Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate Made from just 4 hectares of vines covering five distinct plots, the production of Pago la Jara is miniscule by Spanish standards, at just 4,000 bottles. But the wine itself is a blockbuster that shows all the powerhouse character of the Toro D.O. along with the expertly applied restraint of one of Spain's most acclaimed living winemakers. The 95-point 2020 rendition recently came onto our radar at a price that was simply to good to ignore. Couple that with the fact that it's one of Spain's most consistently excellent insider's finds and you have a collectible gem of the highest order that can cruise in the cellar for a few decades or shine tonight if you're the impatient type. Our best-in-market regular price is made all the more appealing by a price that makes this a no-brainer for anyone seeking top-echelon collectible quality to stack in the cellar in multiples. | ||
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| 2021 Vajra Bricco delle Viole (1.5L) | ||
| Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont, Italy | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Stylistically, the Vajra Barolos embody all the virtues of modern classicism. The wines are elegant, silky, polished and an absolute delight to drink." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous You know the name, and perhaps you already know that the 2021 vintage in Barolo is one for the books, so let's jump right into this set of stunning new releases from "one of the leading estates in Piedmont." As any astute Barolo collector knows, a great vintage is marked not only by the heights that the top wines reach, but by the overall quality of the entry-level offerings, and Vajra's flagship Albe bottling knocks it out of the park in 2021. Wine Advocate's Monica Larner tagged it with 95 points and called it "an enormously versatile expression of Nebbiolo, with an affordable price, that offers more value for your money than most Barolos out there," with several other critics chiming in with their own glowing praise for a serious sub-$40 contender. Movnig to the single crus, Vajra's enviable stable is a star-studded affiair in this benchmark campaign, led by a pair of 98-point collectible treasures in the Ravera and Bricco della Viole, the latter "a wine of stature and breeding" showcasing "little details [that] emerge with terrific sharpness in an epic vintage such as 2021." Of course, we shouldn't overlook the 96-point Coste di Rose. "Loaded with finesse" per Kerin O'Keefe, "[it's] already tempting, [but] the best is yet to come." It's safe to say this is one of the must-have ranges in 2021 Barolo, so collectors should make room in the cellar and cast a wide net on these guaranteed long-haul trophies. | ||
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