$50 - $75 Wine

Vinous Media: 91 Points
The Henri Goutorbe Cuvée Prestige is a Pinot Noir-driven Champagne with generous fruit, attractive richness and the structure typical of the estate’s home village of Aÿ.

Wine Spectator: 92 Points
Rich yet lively, with layered notes of vanilla, pastry cream and brioche, joined by blackberry, salted almond and blood orange zest. Fine acidity and texture carry the wine through a harmonious finish. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Henri Goutorbe Cuvée Prestige Brut is a refined grower Champagne produced by one of the historic family estates of Aÿ. Founded in the heart of the Vallée de la Marne, Henri Goutorbe is particularly known for expressive, well-structured Champagnes built around the richness and depth of Pinot Noir.

The blend is led by approximately 70% Pinot Noir, with 25% Chardonnay and a small proportion of Pinot Meunier. The Pinot Noir contributes body, ripe fruit and a distinctly vinous character, while Chardonnay brings freshness, lift and precision. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

In the glass, the wine opens with aromas of ripe pear, red apple, blackberry and citrus, followed by notes of toasted brioche, pastry cream, honey, roasted almond and subtle spice. The palate is broad and creamy, supported by a fine, persistent mousse and bright acidity. Flavors of orchard fruit, blood orange, salted nuts and warm toast lead into a balanced, satisfying finish.

Cuvée Prestige offers more concentration and complexity than a typical non-vintage Brut, while remaining fresh and highly approachable. It is an excellent introduction to Henri Goutorbe’s house style: fruit-forward, structured and generous, with enough energy to keep the wine elegant.

Serve well chilled as an aperitif or pair with oysters, smoked salmon, shellfish, roast chicken, creamy pasta dishes, mushroom risotto, soft cheeses or lightly seasoned pork.

Pierre Paillard Champagne Grand Cru Extra Brut Les Parcelles Bouzy XXII 2022 | 750ml | Bouzy Grand Cru, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France

Les Parcelles Bouzy XXII is the signature expression of Pierre Paillard's historic estate in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy. Based primarily on the 2022 harvest, this Pinot Noir–dominant Extra Brut Champagne balances the generosity and power associated with Bouzy's sunny southern slopes with the precision, freshness and mineral structure provided by its chalk-rich soils.

The Paillard family has cultivated vines in Bouzy for more than two centuries. Today, eighth-generation brothers Antoine and Quentin Paillard oversee an estate of approximately 11 hectares, farmed organically and situated entirely within this celebrated Grand Cru village on the southern side of the Montagne de Reims.

Les Parcelles XXII is composed of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay. The blend is based on 80% wine from the 2022 harvest, complemented by 20% reserve wine to add depth, harmony and continuity of style. The fruit comes from mature, south-facing vineyards in Bouzy, including Les Maillerettes, Les Mignottes and Les Mottelettes, planted over chalky soils containing a proportion of clay.

Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in 350-liter oak barrels, followed by full malolactic fermentation. The wine remains in barrel during its initial élevage and then matures for 36 months on the lees after the secondary fermentation. It is disgorged with a very low dosage of 2 grams per liter and bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its vinous texture and distinctive Bouzy character.

Richly aromatic and expressive, the wine opens with roasted apricot, dried pear, ripe citrus and Seville orange, joined by notes of brown pastry, buttered toast and warm spice. The palate is broad, bright and detailed, combining generous, sun-ripened fruit with lively freshness and a fine chalky backbone.

Pinot Noir provides body, structure and depth, while Chardonnay contributes lift, citrus definition and elegance. Notes of bitter orange, white pepper and toasted pastry unfold across the palate, leading to a long, dry and pleasantly savory finish. Despite the natural richness of the warm 2022 growing season, the wine retains youthful energy, freshness and excellent balance.

Les Parcelles is an ideal introduction to the Pierre Paillard style: vinous and generous enough to accompany a meal, yet precise and energetic enough to enjoy as an aperitif. It may be enjoyed now for its expressive fruit and complexity or cellared for further development.

Critical Acclaim

93 Points — Decanter
An expressive and mature Champagne showing roasted apricot, dried pear, Seville orange, pastry and buttered-toast notes. Broad and detailed on the palate, with bitter citrus, white pepper and a long, pleasantly dry finish.

Food Pairing

A versatile gastronomic Champagne for roasted poultry, grilled salmon, seared scallops, lobster, mushroom dishes, aged Comté, creamy cheeses and savory pastries. Its bright citrus character and Extra Brut dryness also make it an excellent match for fried seafood, oysters and tempura.

Wine Details

• Producer: Champagne Pierre Paillard
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Appellation: Champagne Grand Cru
• Village: Bouzy
• Area: Montagne de Reims
• Cuvée: Les Parcelles XXII
• Base Harvest: 2022
• Blend: 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay
• Reserve Wine: 20%
• Vineyard Sources: Les Maillerettes, Les Mignottes and Les Mottelettes
• Vine Age: More than 55 years
• Exposure: South-facing
• Soil: Chalk with some clay
• Farming: Certified organic
• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts
• Vessel: 350-liter oak barrels
• Malolactic Fermentation: Completed
• Lees Aging: 36 months
• Dosage: 2 grams per liter
• Classification: Extra Brut
• Fining and Filtration: Unfined and unfiltered
• Bottle Size: 750ml

R. Pouillon & Fils | Grande Vallée | Extra-Brut | Vallée de la Marne & Montagne de Reims, Champagne | 2021 Base | Biodynamic

R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards according to biodynamic principles — a commitment to the land that goes beyond organic certification, working in harmony with natural cycles to produce wines of exceptional purity, vitality, and terroir expression.

Grande Vallée — formerly known as Réserve Brut — is a compelling expression of the Vallée de la Marne through the distinctive lens of Fabrice Pouillon. The cuvée brings together fruit from across the domaine's holdings in the Vallée de la Marne and Montagne de Reims, creating a broad and detailed portrait of the estate's varied terroirs. The blend is approximately 65% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier, and 15% Chardonnay, grown on clay-limestone soils — the Pinot Noir providing structure and depth, Pinot Meunier contributing generous fruit and suppleness, and Chardonnay bringing lift, freshness, and precision.

Fermentation takes place with native yeasts in a combination of neutral barrels, small vats, and traditional enameled tanks. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation and is raised for approximately eight months before bottling. Since the 2019 vintage, Pouillon has employed his innovative Méthode Fabrice Pouillon across the range — using naturally sweet grape must from the estate rather than externally sourced sugar for the secondary fermentation and dosage, preserving a purer connection between the finished Champagne, its fruit, and its place of origin.

Luminous golden in the glass with an expressive, earthy bouquet. Aromas of juicy plum, ripe orchard fruit, subtle savory notes, gentle wood influence, and a faint oxidative complexity. On the palate, lighter and more energetic than the nose initially suggests — generous fruit with fine tension, firm Pinot structure, and bright, refreshing acidity. The texture is expansive yet remarkably agile, with a persistent mousse and a long, mineral-driven finish. Depth without heaviness, intensity without excess.

Excellent as an aperitif and particularly well suited to oysters, shellfish, roast poultry, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses, and savory pastries.

• Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
• Cuvée: Grande Vallée
• Style: Extra-Brut
• Appellation: Vallée de la Marne & Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
• Blend: ~65% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier, 15% Chardonnay
• Base Vintage: 2021
• Farming: Biodynamic
• Soils: Clay-limestone
• Fermentation: Native yeasts; neutral oak, small vats & enameled tanks
• Élevage: ~8 months before bottling; full malolactic fermentation
• Dosage: Estate grape must (Méthode Fabrice Pouillon)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim

• Vinous Media — 91 pts: Earthy and expansive — ripe red pepper, juicy plum and a subtle oxidative edge. Lighter and fresher than the nose suggests, with inherent juiciness, firm Pinot structure and bright acidity. Individual, expressive and surprisingly light on its feet.

Pascal Doquet Champs Libres Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut — Côte des Blancs 2018 Base

Pascal Doquet is one of the leading certified organic growers of the Côte des Blancs, and Champs Libres — "Free Fields" — is his most wide-ranging Blanc de Blancs, drawing 100% Chardonnay from six distinct vineyard sources: Vertus, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Villeneuve, Mont Aimé, Bassuet, and Bassu. Where his Arpège focuses on Premier Cru terroir, Champs Libres casts a broader net, assembling a cuvée of genuine complexity and breadth. The 2018 base was fermented in tank with full malolactic fermentation to soften the vintage's naturally high acidity while preserving freshness and mineral definition. Finished at approximately 2–3 g/L dosage, the Extra Brut style keeps the wine focused, dry, and expressive. Rated 92 points by James Suckling and 90 by The Wine Advocate.

The nose is vivid and refined: warm apple, baked pear, and citrus open to white flowers, orange peel, pastry spice, and a subtle touch of nougat. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and finely textured — delicate bubbles, lively acidity, and a distinctly chalky, saline mineral character. Fresh green apple, citrus, and lightly savory pastry lead into a clean, energetic, and persistent finish. James Suckling calls it "laser-focused… with lively energy and a delicious finish."

James Suckling 92 • Wine Advocate 90 — "A vivid, crisp and laser-focused Blanc de Blancs with aromas of warm apples, baked pears and pastry spices… lively energy and a delicious finish." — James Suckling

• Producer: Pascal Doquet, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Champagne
• Vineyard Sources: Vertus, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Villeneuve, Mont Aimé, Bassuet & Bassu
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs, Extra Brut
• Dosage: ~2–3 g/L
• Fermentation: Tank; full malolactic fermentation
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Alcohol: 12.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Warm apple, baked pear, citrus, white flowers, orange peel, pastry spice, nougat, chalky minerality, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, shellfish, sushi, grilled fish, roast chicken, soft-ripened cheeses, aged goat cheese

92 points from James Suckling. Six vineyard sources. Certified organic. Pascal Doquet's Champs Libres is Côte des Blancs Blanc de Blancs at its most expressive and accessible.

Yann Alexandre Grande Réserve 1er Cru Brut — Champagne 2015 Base

Yann Alexandre's Grande Réserve is a benchmark Premier Cru grower Champagne assembled from four carefully selected vineyard parcels in the villages of Coulommes-la-Montagne, Villedommange, and Vrigny. Compared with his Brut Noir, the vineyard imprint here is more distinctly calcareous — giving the wine pronounced chalky minerality, structure, and freshness. The blend of 45% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay, and 10% Pinot Meunier is fermented 80% in stainless steel and 20% in neutral oak, then aged seven years en tirage in the Alexandre family's cool cellar. The result is a deeply gastronomic Champagne of rare precision and sense of place.

Wet clay and stone on the nose combine with buttery shortcrust pastry and a delicate edge of honey. The concentrated palate shows beautiful evolution — honeycomb, chewy beeswax, and a rich, structured body lifted by brisk, fine bubbles. The finish is long and saline, emphasizing the wine's chalky mineral drive and impeccable balance between maturity and freshness.

"Deeply gastronomic and impressively sustained — a Premier Cru Champagne of rare precision and sense of place."

• Producer: Yann & Séverine Alexandre, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2015
• Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
• Vineyard Sources: Four parcels in Coulommes-la-Montagne, Villedommange & Vrigny
• Blend: 45% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Meunier
• Reserve Wine: 40%
• Vinification: 80% stainless steel, 20% neutral oak; malolactic fermentation
• Lees Aging: Seven years en tirage
• Acidity: 4.67 g/L | pH: 3.02 | Alcohol: 12%
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by OCACIA
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Wet clay, stone, shortcrust pastry, honey, honeycomb, beeswax, chalky minerality, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, turkey, veal, lobster, scallops, grilled fish, creamy mushroom dishes, aged cheeses

Seven years on the lees, four Premier Cru parcels, and a 2015 base of exceptional depth — Yann Alexandre's Grande Réserve is grower Champagne at its most compelling.

J. Vignier Silexus Sezannensis Brut — Côte de Sézanne 2016 Base

The name says it all: Silexus Sezannensis is a Champagne defined entirely by its soil. Drawn from the Chatet parcel near Saudoy in the Côte de Sézanne — where four of the Vignier family’s twelve hectares are planted — this 100% Chardonnay cuvée grows on a complex mixture of silex and sand over deep Cretaceous chalk, with marl, clay, and silica adding further texture and character. The dark flint stones absorb warmth during the day and release it slowly around the vines at night, encouraging even ripening and full Chardonnay maturity. The underlying chalk preserves freshness, acidity, and a pronounced mineral drive. Vinified in stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation and aged a minimum of 84 months en tirage, the 2016 base emerges with depth, integration, and a flinty character that is unmistakably its own. Certified sustainable by Socofret.

Expressive and mineral-driven on the nose: ripe citrus, yellow apple, white peach, and delicate flowers, with subtle brioche, almond, and crushed stone emerging with air. The palate is generous yet focused — fine bubbles, bright acidity, and a distinctive flinty, smoky character that carries through the long, dry finish. The Sézanne terroir gives the wine a broader, more expressive texture than the northern Côte des Blancs, while the silex soils keep it precise, taut, and deeply mineral.

“Silexus Sezannensis is a Champagne of place above all else — silex and chalk in Saudoy, rendered with 84 months of patience and a clarity of terroir that is rare at any price.”

• Producer: J. Vignier, Côte de Sézanne, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2016
• Appellation: Champagne
• Village: Saudoy, Côte de Sézanne
• Vineyard: Chatet (south-facing)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs Brut
• Soil: Silex and sand over Cretaceous chalk, with marl, clay and silica
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by Socofret
• Vinification: Stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation
• Lees Aging: Minimum 84 months en tirage
• Residual Sugar: 5.3 g/L | Acidity: 4.6 g/L | pH: 3.07 | Alcohol: 12.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, yellow apple, white peach, white flowers, brioche, almond, crushed stone, flinty smokiness, long dry finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, caviar, scallops, lobster, sushi, roasted white fish, poultry, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses

2016 base. 84 months en tirage. Single parcel in Saudoy. J. Vignier’s Silexus Sezannensis is Côte de Sézanne Blanc de Blancs at its most terroir-driven and compelling.

J. Vignier Ora Alba Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut — Côte des Blancs 2013 Base

Ora Alba — "the first light of day" — is J. Vignier's interpretation of northern Côte des Blancs Chardonnay at its most luminous and precise. Produced entirely from Grand Cru fruit sourced from three prestigious villages — Cramant, Chouilly, and Oiry — the cuvée draws on deep Cretaceous chalk complemented by marl and clay, a geology that yields Champagne of both mineral tension and generous texture. Cramant contributes structure and pronounced chalky minerality, Chouilly adds elegance and ripe fruit, and Oiry brings freshness and linear precision. Vinified and aged in stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation, then aged on the lees for an extended period before disgorgement, the 2013 base gives the wine exceptional depth and a decade-plus of development. Certified sustainable by Socofret.

Fresh and refined on the nose: lemon zest, white peach, green apple, and delicate white flowers, with subtle brioche and toasted almond emerging with air. The palate is precise and energetic — layers of citrus, orchard fruit, and chalky minerality carried by fine bubbles and a softly creamy texture. The finish is long, dry, and elegant, with a persistent mineral drive that speaks clearly of its Grand Cru origins.

"Ora Alba is the Vignier family's vision of northern Côte des Blancs Chardonnay — bright, luminous, and deeply mineral."

• Producer: J. Vignier, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Base Vintage: 2013
• Appellation: Champagne Grand Cru
• Villages: Cramant, Chouilly & Oiry
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs Brut
• Soil: Cretaceous chalk, marl and clay
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by Socofret
• Vinification: Stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation
• Lees Aging: Extended aging before disgorgement
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon zest, white peach, green apple, white flowers, brioche, toasted almond, chalky minerality, long dry finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, caviar, lobster, scallops, sushi, roasted white fish, creamy poultry, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses

A 2013 base. Three Grand Cru villages. Extended lees aging. J. Vignier's Ora Alba is northern Côte des Blancs Blanc de Blancs at its most precise and compelling.

J. Vignier Les Longues Verges Grand Cru Brut — Cramant & Chouilly 2013

Les Longues Verges is J. Vignier’s most distinctive single-vineyard cuvée — a Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs from a unique parcel that straddles the boundary between two of the Côte des Blancs’ most celebrated villages: Cramant and Chouilly. The name itself is a piece of history: “verges” was an old French unit of measurement, roughly 50 meters, used before the metric system. The vineyard’s northeast-facing exposure on Cretaceous chalk, marl, and clay preserves freshness and acidity while encouraging the Chardonnay to develop exceptional purity and concentration. Vinified in stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation, bottled in May 2014, and aged 84 months in bottle before release — the 2013 vintage emerges with the depth and integration of a wine that has been given all the time it needs. Certified sustainable by Socofret.

Elegant and focused on the nose: bright citrus, white peach, and orchard fruit joined by jasmine, fennel, ginger, and toasted brioche. The palate is long, juicy, and finely structured — creamy texture balanced by vivid acidity and the steely, chalk-driven minerality that defines Grand Cru Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs. Cramant’s refined structure and Chouilly’s generous fruit meet in a wine of compelling harmony and a finish that lingers with precision and grace.

“Les Longues Verges sits at the boundary of two Grand Cru villages — and the wine itself is a study in contrasts beautifully resolved: structure and generosity, freshness and depth, history and precision.”

• Producer: J. Vignier, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Vintage: 2013
• Appellation: Champagne Grand Cru
• Villages: Cramant & Chouilly
• Vineyard: Les Longues Verges (northeast exposure)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs Brut
• Soil: Cretaceous chalk, marl and clay
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by Socofret
• Vinification: Stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation
• Bottle Aging: 84 months
• Residual Sugar: 4.4 g/L | Acidity: 4.2 g/L | pH: 3.07 | Alcohol: 12.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, white peach, orchard fruit, jasmine, fennel, ginger, brioche, creamy texture, steely chalky minerality
• Best Paired With: Oysters, caviar, lobster, scallops, sushi, roasted white fish, creamy poultry, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses

2013 vintage. 84 months in bottle. A single parcel spanning two Grand Cru villages. J. Vignier’s Les Longues Verges is Côte des Blancs Blanc de Blancs at its most singular and precise.

J. Vignier Deux Terres Blanc de Blancs Brut — Cramant & Côte de Sézanne 2010

Deux Terres — “Two Lands” — is J. Vignier’s most geographically ambitious cuvée, drawing 100% Chardonnay from two distinct and contrasting terroirs: Le Bateau in the Grand Cru village of Cramant on the Côte des Blancs, and Les Bercottes in Barbonne-Fayel on the Côte de Sézanne. The connection between the two sites runs deeper than geography — the Sézanne vines were planted by massal selection using cuttings from the family’s oldest Cramant vineyards, creating a living lineage between the two parcels. The vines are 50 to 60 years old, rooted in Cretaceous chalk, marl, and clay. Vinified in stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation and aged a minimum of eight years en tirage, the 2010 vintage — one of Champagne’s finest of the decade — emerges with extraordinary depth, integration, and a long, dry finish. Certified sustainable by Socofret.

Elegant and finely structured: citrus, orchard fruit, toasted brioche, almond, and subtle pastry notes on the nose, deepening with air into mature Champagne complexity. The palate is rich yet focused — Cramant’s chalky precision and Sézanne’s generous, expressive fruit resolved into a wine of remarkable harmony. Eight-plus years on the lees have built a creamy mousse and seamless texture, while the naturally bright acidity keeps everything energetic and long on the finish.

“Deux Terres is a study in complementary opposites — Cramant’s mineral precision and Sézanne’s generous fruit, united by 50-year-old vines and eight years of patience.”

• Producer: J. Vignier, Champagne, France
• Vintage: 2010
• Appellation: Champagne
• Vineyards: Le Bateau, Cramant (Grand Cru) & Les Bercottes, Barbonne-Fayel (Côte de Sézanne)
• Vine Age: 50–60 years
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Blanc de Blancs Brut
• Soil: Cretaceous chalk, marl and clay
• Farming: Certified Sustainable by Socofret
• Vinification: Stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation
• Lees Aging: Minimum 8 years en tirage
• Residual Sugar: 2.8 g/L | Acidity: 4.8 g/L | Alcohol: 11.8%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, orchard fruit, brioche, almond, pastry, creamy mousse, chalky minerality, long dry finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, caviar, lobster, scallops, roasted fish, creamy poultry, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses

2010 vintage. 8+ years on the lees. Two terroirs, one lineage. J. Vignier’s Deux Terres is among the most compelling aged Blanc de Blancs Champagnes available today.

J. Vignier Aux Origines Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne (2017 Base)

“Aux Origines” — where it all began — is a deeply personal Champagne that honors the roots of the Vignier family’s winemaking history. Produced entirely from Chardonnay grown in Les Simarts, the first vineyards planted by Nathalie Vignier’s grandparents, Marie-Louise and Paul, in the village of Barbonne-Fayel during the 1960s, this is a wine of place, memory, and exceptional craft. The Côte de Sézanne’s clay and sandy soils over chalk yield generous, expressive Chardonnay with both ripe fruit character and the chalky minerality that defines great Champagne. Fermented in stainless steel with full malolactic fermentation, rested seven months on fine lees, then aged a minimum of 36 months in bottle before disgorgement — the result is a Blanc de Blancs of remarkable depth, texture, and elegance.

• Producer: J. Vignier
• Cuvée: Aux Origines
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Region: Côte de Sézanne, Champagne, France
• Vineyard: Les Simarts, Barbonne-Fayel
• Base Vintage: 2017
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Certified Sustainable (Socofret)
• Vinification: Stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation; 7 months on fine lees; 36+ months bottle aging
• Alcohol: 12.5%

Pairs beautifully with oysters, caviar, shellfish, sushi, delicate white fish, soft cheeses, or light poultry. Serve well chilled.

Domaine Chanson Mercurey Blanc — Côte Chalonnaise 2022

Domaine Chanson is one of Burgundy’s most storied estates, with roots stretching back to 1750. As specialists in the great terroirs of Burgundy for nearly three centuries, Chanson farms its vineyards with a singular focus on terroir expression and precision winemaking. The Mercurey Blanc is sourced from mid-slope, east-facing Chardonnay vineyards in the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise — a region that delivers Burgundian character at a fraction of the Côte de Beaune price. The 2022 vintage was defined by heat and drought, yet well-timed August rains ensured balanced ripening and produced whites of exceptional freshness, precision, and balance. This bottle earned a Double Gold Medal at the Sakura Wine Awards.

The nose is pale gold and inviting: floral fragrances, citrus zest, yellow-fleshed fruit, and lightly toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is well-balanced and complex, with a dense, tight texture, well-integrated oak, and a long, fresh finish. Classic Côte Chalonnaise Chardonnay — precise, refreshing, and built for the table.

Double Gold Medal — Sakura Wine Awards

• Producer: Domaine Chanson, Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Mercurey AOC, Côte Chalonnaise
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vineyard: Mid-slope, east-facing plots in Mercurey
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus zest, yellow-fleshed fruit, floral, lightly toasted oak, dense texture, fresh finish
• Best Paired With: White meats, poultry, regional cheeses (Citeaux, Langres, Époisses)

A Double Gold Burgundy Blanc from a 275-year-old estate — precise, refreshing Côte Chalonnaise Chardonnay at an honest price.

Roederer Estate White & Rosé Bundle

Two of California’s most celebrated non-vintage sparkling wines, together at 15% off. Roederer Estate — the California outpost of the legendary Champagne house behind Cristal — has been crafting benchmark sparkling wines in Anderson Valley since 1982. This bundle pairs their iconic Brut NV with the equally acclaimed Brut Rosé NV: two wines that consistently overdeliver at their price points and have earned devoted followings among sparkling wine lovers worldwide.

What’s in the Bundle

• Roederer Estate Brut NV Anderson Valley 750ml — $29.99 — The estate’s flagship non-vintage blanc de blancs-style sparkling wine. Crisp, precise, and endlessly versatile, with citrus, green apple, brioche, and a fine, persistent mousse.
• Roederer Estate Brut Rosé NV Anderson Valley 750ml — $39.99 — 56% Pinot Noir, 44% Chardonnay. Gorgeous salmon-pink with aromas of raspberry, brioche, and orange zest. 94 pts Jeb Dunnuck | 93 pts Wine Enthusiast & James Suckling.

Bundle Details

• Bottles: 2 × 750ml
• Retail Value: $69.98
• Bundle Price: $59.48 (15% off)
• Best For: Gifting, celebrations, aperitif, brunch, seafood pairings

Note: Bottles will be packed together and shipped as one order.

Château Mondot Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2021

Perched atop a singular hill overlooking the ancient village of Saint-Émilion, Château Mondot has stood as an understated beacon of exceptional terroir since its creation in 1700. The estate — the second wine of the legendary Château Troplong Mondot — occupies a position like no other in the appellation, its lofty elevation and unique soil profile setting it apart from its neighbors on the limestone plateau.

The secret lies beneath the surface: Mondot's hill is one of the only places in Saint-Émilion where ancient Agenais Molasse clays, formed during the region's geological creation, have survived erosion to great depths, overlying the astéries limestone so characteristic of the appellation. This rare clay-over-limestone profile is the defining signature of Mondot's wines — lending them structure, freshness, and a distinctive mineral tension that sets them apart.

The 2021 Mondot holds a special place in the estate's history: it is the last vintage produced exclusively from Merlot grown on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau — a milestone worth cellaring. Bright and vibrant in character, the wine reflects the cool, precise nature of the 2021 vintage with crystalline energy and elegant restraint.

Deep ruby in the glass, the wine opens with floral wildflower and crushed flower aromas, followed by red cherry, blackberry, currant, orange peel, cola, mint, and white pepper, with a touch of toasted oak and blue fruit. The palate is refined and focused — not plush or heavy — with pure acidity, a gorgeous tannic structure, and a mouthwatering, saline finish with notes of liquorice and wet stone. Drink from 2027.

Wine Enthusiast — 93 pts
"Floral wildflower aromas. Partial wood aging has produced a wine with light toast and pure acidity. Black-currant flavors are dominant with bright acidity as well as structure. Drink from 2027." (Vintage 2021). 

Decanter — 93 pts
"Beautifully delicate and fragrant — a touch of cola, blue fruits and salt with green pepper and toasted oak. Refined and focussed, crisp and mouthwatering, excellent energy and sense of life with a delicious moreish liquorice, wet stone finish. A serious, well-constructed wine with depth but no heaviness." (Vintage 2021). 

James Suckling — 92 pts
"A vivid and bright red with currant, orange peel and some light spices. Medium body and fine tannins that turn dusty in the finish." (Vintage 2021).

Vinous — 91 pts
"A bright, vibrant wine. Crushed flowers, red cherry fruit, orange peel, mint and white pepper abound. A wine of crystalline energy and tension — super-impressive." (Vintage 2021).

Wine Advocate — 90 pts
"Charming and expressive, bursting with aromas of blackberries, plums, orange zest and spices. Medium to full-bodied, ample and velvety, seamless and suave, with succulent acids and a mouthwateringly saline finish. The last rendition of Mondot produced exclusively from Merlot growing on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau." (Vintage 2021).

Varietal: 100% Merlot (final vintage)
Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC, Bordeaux, France
Vintage: 2021
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 WE | 93 Decanter | 92 JS | 91 Vinous | 90 WA

Michele Chiarlo Tortoniano Barolo DOCG — Piedmont, Italy 2022

Michele Chiarlo has been vinifying the essence of Piedmont since 1956 — one of the region’s most visionary and historically significant producers. Founder Michele Chiarlo was among the first in Italy to introduce malolactic fermentation, and long before DOC laws were adopted, he was already aging his wines in oak and bottle for extended periods. Today the estate farms the finest crus of Barolo, Barbaresco, Nizza, and Gavi, using indigenous grapes — Nebbiolo, Barbera, Cortese, Moscato — to express the full depth of Piedmontese terroir. Tortoniano takes its name from the Tortonian-era soils in which the vines are planted — ancient marine sediments laid down 9 million years ago, rich in magnesium and manganese, that give the wine its distinctive mineral character and longevity. Grape clusters are thinned and harvested up to 15 days later than usual for maximum concentration, then aged two years in large oak casks and one year in bottle before release. 

Garnet with brilliant luminous hues. The nose is inviting and complex: rose petals, juniper berries, and fine spices — the unmistakable signature of great Nebbiolo. On the palate, it is elegant with ample structure and silky tannins, and a long, refined finish that speaks clearly of its ancient soils. A Barolo of real depth and class.

• Producer: Michele Chiarlo, Calamandrana, Piedmont, Italy (est. 1956)
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo — Tortonian-era soils (9 million years old), rich in magnesium & manganese
• Aging: 2 years in large oak casks + 1 year in bottle before release
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Rose petals, juniper berries, fine spices, elegant structure, silky tannins, long refined finish
• Best Paired With: Mushroom pasta, roasted fowl, braised beef, matured cheeses, truffle dishes

A 9-million-year-old terroir in a glass — Michele Chiarlo Tortoniano is the benchmark for what classic Barolo can be.

Tenuta San Guido Le Difese — Toscana IGT 2024

Le Difese is the second wine of Sassicaia — and that pedigree means everything. Tenuta San Guido is the legendary Bolgheri estate that created the Super Tuscan category, producing one of Italy’s most celebrated wines in Sassicaia. Le Difese is crafted from the estate’s younger vines using the same philosophy and the same winemaking team: fermentation on the skins in temperature-controlled stainless steel, followed by 8 months of maturation in French and American oak barrels. The 2024 vintage was exceptional — early, uniform budbreak, ideal flowering and fruit set, warm July with early veraison, and cool nights through August ensuring perfect phenolic and technical ripeness. James Suckling awarded it 92 points. At under $57, it is one of the most compelling values in all of Tuscan wine.

Intense black fruit aromas and flavors, with vanilla and spice from oak, plums, cherries, light chocolate, and cinnamon. Full-bodied with supple tannins, a tangy touch of orange peel, and a crisp, satisfying finish. A delicious and complete glass of Tuscany.

James Suckling 92 — “A fresh and crunchy red with aromas of plums, cherries, light chocolate and cinnamon… fine tannins and a crisp finish. Tangy, with a touch of orange peel. A delicious and satisfying glass of Tuscany red. The second wine of Sassicaia.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Tenuta San Guido, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Blend: 70% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 8 months in French and American oak barrels
• ABV: 13.5%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black fruit, plum, cherry, chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, orange peel, supple tannins
• Best Paired With: Grilled steak, steak salad, burgers, Bolognese, marinara, casual beef dishes

The second wine of one of Italy’s greatest estates at an honest price — Le Difese is the benchmark for what a Super Tuscan second label can be.

Michele Chiarlo Reyna Barbaresco DOCG — Piedmont, Italy 2023

Barbaresco is known as the queen of Italian wine — and Reyna (“queen” in Piedmontese dialect) is Michele Chiarlo’s tribute to that regal character. Sourced from steep hillside vineyards in Barbaresco and Neive, facing southeast and southwest, the vines are planted in bluish-grey calcareous clay marl rich in microelements — the same ancient soils that define the finest expressions of Nebbiolo in the Langhe. Grapes are hand-harvested 10–15 days later than normal for maximum ripeness and concentration, then fermented at controlled temperatures, put through malolactic fermentation, and aged 18 months in large casks of French Allier and Slavonian oak before bottle aging. James Suckling awarded it 92 points. 

Garnet red with brilliant hues. The nose is fine and expressive: small red fruits, rose petals, tea leaves, prunes, black cherries, licorice, and smashed flowers with a deep rhubarb undertone. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with firm, dusty yet polished tannins, brilliant acidity, and a long, tight, aristocratic finish full of flavor. Drink now or hold.

James Suckling 92 (Aldo Fiordelli) — “A ripe, fruity style, showing prunes, black cherries, licorice and bark, plus vibrant smashed flowers and a deep rhubarb undertone. Medium-bodied, offering firm, dusty yet polished tannins, with brilliant acidity and a tight, tense finish.” (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Michele Chiarlo, Calamandrana, Piedmont, Italy (est. 1956)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo — Barbaresco & Neive, bluish-grey calcareous clay marl
• Aging: 18 months in large French Allier & Slavonian oak casks + bottle aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red fruits, rose petals, tea leaves, prunes, black cherry, licorice, smashed flowers, polished tannins
• Best Paired With: Risotto, braised veal shank, lamb with herbs, truffle dishes, aged Parmigiano

The queen of Italian wine from one of Piedmont’s founding estates — Michele Chiarlo Reyna is the benchmark for what classic Barbaresco can be.

Château Mont-Redon Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2022

Château Mont-Redon is one of the most storied estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, its history predating the appellation itself. In 1923 — more than a decade before the AOC was formally established in 1936 — visionary proprietor Henri Plantin acquired this isolated plateau property, then covered in scrubland and groves, and set about clearing the land and planting vines in the famous rolled pebbles (galets roulés) that define the appellation's most iconic terroir.

Located in the northwestern sector of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the estate is uniquely privileged to possess all three of the appellation's emblematic terroir types: the pebble-strewn plateau, the compact sandy safres, and the ancient urgonian limestone. This rare combination of complementary soils is the foundation of Mont-Redon's complexity and consistency across vintages.

The 2022 is a blend of approximately 60% Grenache, 31% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre, and a mix of other authorized varieties including Counoise, Muscardin, Vaccarèse, and Cinsaut, matured in a combination of new and used barrels, concrete, and large foudres. The result is a wine of remarkable depth, structure, and elegance — built for the cellar, but already showing its extraordinary potential.

Deep ruby in the glass, the wine opens with a gorgeous nose of dark cherries, black raspberries, cassis, dried thyme, black pepper, violets, and spicy garrigue, with hints of leather, licorice, and gravel. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with a firm yet refined tannic frame, dark berry fruit at the core, and a long, focused finish with crushed stone and graphite minerality. Best from 2027–2028 and drinking brilliantly for 15+ years.

James Suckling — 96 pts
"A well-composed, structured and refined Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The nose reveals notes of dark cherries, cassis, dried thyme, black pepper and a touch of violets. It’s full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Robust and focused, and the funneled finish has length. Try after 2028." (Vintage 2022). 

Jeb Dunnuck — 94 pts
"A gorgeous nose of black raspberries, Bing cherries, spicy garrigue, leather, and ground pepper. With medium to full-bodied richness and a concentrated yet focused, elegant style on the palate, it’s going to benefit from 2–3 years of bottle age and drink brilliantly over the following 15+ years." (Vintage 2022). 

Vinous — 92 pts
"Distinct licorice, gravel, red cherry and violet notes alongside minty undertones. Constructed around a firm tannic core, the full-bodied 2022 is clearly built for the long haul, demanding five more years in a cool cellar." (Vintage 2022). 

Wine Spectator — 92 pts
"Large in scale and richly styled, with a ripe core of cherry and cassis liqueur hemmed in with chalk-fine tannins. Smoked anise, meat and earth merge in, while graphite and crushed stone notes line the robust finish." (Vintage 2022). 

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate — 91+ pts
"Aromas of violet, dark wild berries, lavender and smoke. A medium to full-bodied, concentrated and structured wine with an assertive tannic frame, velvety tannins and a long and spicy finish." (Vintage 2022). 

Blend: ~60% Grenache, 31% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre, plus Counoise, Muscardin, Vaccarèse, Cinsaut
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Southern Rhône, France
Vintage: 2022
Format: 750ml
Scores: 96 JS | 94 JD | 92 Vinous | 92 WS | 91+ WA

Discover the two faces of Etna in one elegant bundle. Benanti's Etna Rosso 2023 and Etna Bianco 2024 — both from Sicily's iconic volcanic slopes — offer a complete expression of the appellation. The Rosso delivers earthy red fruit, volcanic minerality, and silky tannins from Nerello Mascalese, while the Bianco brings bright citrus, saline freshness, and floral lift from Carricante. A perfect pairing for the table or a thoughtful gift.

(Rosso). The Wine Spectator 90 Points | A bright, balanced red, with an aromatic overtone of medicinal herbs and spices accenting flavors of macerated cherry and raspberry fruit, stone, smoke, milled pepper and paprika. Lightly chewy on the finish. Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Drink now through 2033.  

(Bianco). "A thrill-seeking wine from the volcanic region of Mt. Etna. Benanti showcases 100% Carricante at its best — complexity on the nose with aromas of grapefruit, saline, and fresh acidity with lots of minerality. A pure varietal expression, full of life, vibrant, energetic, with a lingering finish." — Debra 67wino.shop

Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Russian River Valley — Sonoma County 2023

Lewis Cellars is one of Napa and Sonoma’s most celebrated producers of opulent, barrel-fermented Chardonnay — and the Russian River Valley bottling is the more feminine, floral counterpart to their Napa expression. The Russian River Valley is defined by its proximity to the Pacific: morning fog, cool afternoons, and salty ocean air that slow ripening and impart a distinctive floral aromatic quality and subtle minerality that sets this appellation apart. The 2023 growing season was one of the longest of the past decade — mild, consistently sunny weather promoted even ripening with exceptional complexity. Lewis waited until late September to begin harvest, picking the last fruit in the second week of November, allowing prolonged hang time for maximal flavor development. The wine is fully barrel-fermented with native yeast and undergoes 100% malolactic conversion in French oak — the Lewis signature.

The color is a luminous golden straw. The nose is rich and captivating: sweet jasmine, roasted pear, popcorn, caramel, cinnamon, and citrus blossom, with a whisper of salty Pacific air. On the palate, it is full-bodied, broad, and richly textured — pear syrup, lemon cream, apple chutney, flaky pastry, and Meyer lemon curd, with rocky minerality and barrel spice woven through a long, succulent, and elegant finish. Vibrant and elevated on entry, graceful and complex through the mid-palate, and deliciously succulent on the landing.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling — 94 Points
“This full-bodied, soft and rich wine drips with pear-syrup and lemon-cream flavors. Fully barrel-fermented with native yeast and 100% malolactic, it feels broad and melted, tasting ultraripe, almost sweet. Great wine if you like this style. Drink or hold.”

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
“Big, rich aromas of popcorn, roasted pear, caramel, and cinnamon waft on the nose. The palate is broad and richly textured, with flavors of apple chutney, flaky pastry, rocky minerality, barrel spice, and citrus blossoms, with echoes of cinnamon and Meyer lemon curd through the finish.”

• Producer: Lewis Cellars, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vinification: Fully barrel-fermented with native yeast, 100% malolactic conversion, French oak
• Harvest: Late September – second week of November (extended hang time)
• Style: Rich, opulent, floral, cool-climate Russian River Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Jasmine, roasted pear, caramel, lemon cream, apple chutney, Meyer lemon curd, rocky minerality, salty Pacific air
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Lobster, crab, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses, scallops

Russian River Chardonnay at its most lush and expressive — Lewis Cellars 2023 is the Pacific Coast in a glass.

Anakota Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley — Sonoma County 2022

Anakota is the Knights Valley project of Pierre Seillan — the visionary vigneron behind Vérité — and it stands apart from every other Sonoma Cabernet. The estate vineyards climb the southwest-facing volcanic slopes of Mount St. Helena at 700–950 feet of elevation, surrounded by cold mountain streams and forests of native fir and oak. The soils are volcanic and mineral-rich, and the message of the land is conveyed in every bottle. The 2022 blend draws from three estate parcels: Helena Montana (53%), Coyote Hills (34%), and Stonestreet Estate (13%), composed of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. This is Sonoma Cabernet at its most rugged, pure, and terroir-driven.

The color is a brilliant ruby-violet with a vivid rim. The nose is immediately captivating: crunchy boysenberry, juicy black plum, black cherry, dark chocolate, and roasted espresso bean, layered with herbes de Provence and subtle baking spice. On the palate, the wine is rich and velvety — full-bodied with fine-grained tannins that are soothing and precise, electric acidity, and wet stone minerality driving a layered, complex, and lingering finish. Drink now or hold for a decade.

“So pure, fruity and appealing — ripe, welcoming flavors and fine-grained texture that’s soothing on the palate. Black cherries, blackberries, dried blueberries and dark chocolate. Rich in velvety tannins, leading to a lingering finish.” — 94 Points. Jim Gordon, Executive Editor, JamesSuckling.com. (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Anakota (Pierre Seillan), Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Knights Valley, Sonoma County
• Composition: 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot
• Vineyards: Helena Montana 53%, Coyote Hills 34%, Stonestreet Estate 13%
• Elevation: 700–950 ft, southwest-facing volcanic slopes of Mt. St. Helena
• Style: Rich, precise, terroir-driven Knights Valley Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Boysenberry, black plum, black cherry, dark chocolate, espresso, herbes de Provence, wet stone minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 10+ years
• Best Paired With: Braised short ribs, grilled ribeye, lamb chops, wild mushroom risotto, aged cheddar

Knights Valley Cabernet from one of California’s great vignerons — Anakota is the volcanic soul of Sonoma in a bottle.

Heitz Cellar Quartz Creek Vineyard Chardonnay — Napa Valley 2021

Heitz Cellar is one of Napa Valley’s founding estates — and the Quartz Creek Vineyard Chardonnay is its sole white wine, making it one of the most singular and sought-after expressions of Napa Chardonnay. The fruit comes from the Burgess-owned Quartz Creek Vineyard in Oak Knoll, a cool sub-appellation at the southern end of the Napa Valley where the influence of San Pablo Bay moderates temperatures and extends the growing season. The 2021 vintage was shaped by drought and a cool, long growing season that dramatically reduced yields — and concentrated everything that remained. The result is a Chardonnay of exceptional intensity, harmony, and cellar-worthiness: a step up even from the celebrated 2020.

The color is a luminous pale gold. The nose opens with effusive floral top notes, followed by cool, almost mentholated aromas of concentrated lime essence, lemon curd, white pear, and a whisper of toasted cashew and crushed stone. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and linear — silky and creamy in texture, with gorgeous finesse and a taut, focused structure. Vibrant citrus drives the mid-palate, with savory mineral complexity and a long, precise, and elegant finish. First and foremost, a wine of harmony.

Vinous 94 • Wine Advocate 92 • Wine Spectator 91 — “Fabulous — silky and creamy on the palate, with gorgeous finesse. First and foremost, a wine of harmony.” — Vinous

• Producer: Heitz Cellar, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Napa Valley — Oak Knoll District
• Vineyard: Quartz Creek Vineyard (Burgess-owned), Oak Knoll
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Production: 1,310 cases
• Style: Linear, mineral-driven, harmonious Napa Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lime essence, lemon curd, white pear, toasted cashew, floral notes, crushed stone minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–8 years
• Best Paired With: Dungeness crab, razor clams, grilled seafood, chicken marsala, creamy pasta, soft cheeses

Napa Valley’s most singular Chardonnay — Heitz Quartz Creek is harmony, precision, and terroir in a single bottle.

Castello di Bossi — Corbaia Toscana IGT 2022

Castello di Bossi is one of the benchmark estates of Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the southern reaches of Chianti Classico, with a history stretching back to the 13th century. Corbaia — named for the vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon planted on the estate some 42 years ago — is their flagship Super-Tuscan: a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, fermented in stainless steel and matured in Allier oak barriques. The result is a wine of superb finesse and elegance, where the structure of Cabernet and the soul of Sangiovese find a natural equilibrium.

The 2022 is heady and explosive. Intense ruby-red with garnet highlights, it opens with a rush of dark fruit, new leather, blood orange, spice, and pipe tobacco — backed by jammy black currants, cherries, cassis, mocha, and vanilla. On the palate it is full-bodied yet supple, layered with rich texture and well-integrated tannins, with no hard edges and terrific balance. Pure and total sensuality, as Vinous put it — and they awarded it 95 points.

Vinous 95 — "The 2022 Corbaia is heady and explosive in the glass. A rush of dark fruit, new leather, blood orange, spice and pipe tobacco soars out of the glass. Rich yet not at all heavy, Corbaia delivers the goods. Readers will find a wine of pure and total sensuality with no hard edges and terrific balance."

• Producer: Castello di Bossi, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Toscana IGT (Super-Tuscan)
• Blend: Sangiovese & Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation, Allier oak barrique aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, blood orange, leather, tobacco, cassis, mocha, vanilla, integrated tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2035
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb chops, ribeye steak, meats alla Diavola, Béarnaise sauces, aged Pecorino

A 95-point Super-Tuscan at $64 — Corbaia 2022 is Castello di Bossi at its most compelling.

Trediberri Barolo del Comune di La Morra — Piedmont 2022

Trediberri is one of La Morra’s most exciting young estates — a small, precision-focused domaine that has quickly earned a reputation for wines of exceptional purity and finesse. Their Barolo del Comune di La Morra is a single-commune bottling sourced primarily from the high-altitude Berri vineyard, with approximately 18% from the legendary Rocche dell’Annunziata cru. Aged 21 months in large Slavonian oak casks, the wine is built for transparency: no new oak, no extraction, no shortcuts — just the pure voice of La Morra Nebbiolo. The 2022 vintage, shaped by heat and drought, delivered lower yields and concentrated fruit; in the hands of Trediberri, the result is a wine of remarkable balance, freshness, and early approachability, with a drinking window stretching to 2036 and beyond.

The color is a classic translucent garnet. The nose is lifted and perfumed: cranberry, redcurrant, fresh cherry, rose petals, pepper, and brushwood, with hints of dried herbs and earth that take some coaxing — and reward patience. On the palate, it is tightly knit and slender but beautifully endowed: juicy red berries, cardamom, and floral tones framed by lively acidity and al dente tannins. There is a beautiful sense of tension and precision — no heaviness, just clarity and energy. The finish is long, mineral-driven, and classically Barolo.

Decanter 93 — “A quiet charmer. Precision and purity as its strengths — lively acidity meets al dente tannins. Do not take this for a pushover.” — Michaela Morris, Decanter. (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Trediberri, La Morra, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG — Comune di La Morra
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Vineyards: Berri (~82%) & Rocche dell’Annunziata (~18%), La Morra
• Aging: 21 months in large Slavonian oak casks
• Style: Elegant, lifted, terroir-driven Barolo
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, redcurrant, fresh cherry, rose petals, pepper, brushwood, cardamom, mineral finish
• Drink Window: 2026–2036
• Best Paired With: Braised short ribs, roast lamb, game, truffle dishes, aged Parmigiano, wild boar ragù

La Morra Nebbiolo at its most precise — Trediberri is the quiet benchmark of the commune.

Tasting Notes

Vibrant yellow with a hint of green, Pinto Holot opens with a highly aromatic nose of floral, tropical fruit, and green tea. On the palate, rich minerality and a full body carry layers of yellow fruit and citrus nuance, with a long, lingering finish. Fermented and aged sur lie in 100% new oak barrels, the wine delivers remarkable depth, structure, and elegance that will continue to evolve with time in the bottle.

About the Wine

Sourced from Yeruham Vineyards deep in the Negev Mountains, this wine is a standout expression of Israel's "Desert Terroir" movement. Produced by Pinto Winery — a rising-star boutique producer — and managed by renowned winemaker Yaacov Oryah, the "Holot" (Sands) series represents their premium tier. The Negev's extreme temperature swings — scorching days and cold nights — yield grapes with high sugar and snappy acidity, perfectly balancing the power of Roussanne with the citrus lift of Chenin Blanc.

Product Details

• Appellation: Negev Desert (Yeruham), Israel
• Varietals: Roussanne, Chenin Blanc
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Aging: Sur lie in 100% new oak barrels
• Certification: Kosher
• Producer: Pinto Winery

Tucked behind Dalton Mountain, Kerem Nadav is surrounded by the wild Birkat Kash nature reserve at approximately 700m elevation. Two varieties — Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Petit Verdot (30%) — grow together in this single vineyard rooted in heavy Basalt soil, co-fermenting to create a uniquely expressive wine of place. Each wine in Dalton's Single Vineyard series encapsulates a site-specific microcosmos: its soil, landscape, and the climate that shapes them.

The vineyard is farmed using sustainable practices, with rich biodiversity: nesting boxes for owls, and goats that graze in winter to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Dark purple
• Nose: Black plums, cherries, tobacco leaf, and warm spice
• Palate: Soft and mineral-driven with smooth, well-integrated tannins
• Finish: Long and age-worthy — built to improve over the coming decade

Kosher Certification

Kosher Le'Mehadrin and Kosher for Passover.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at 17–19°C
• Pairs beautifully with roast beef, lamb, or an aged cheese platter
• Decant 30 minutes before serving

750ml. Single Vineyard. Galilee, Israel.

Crafted from the ancient Bittuni grape — an indigenous Israeli variety rediscovered and developed through years of research by Dr. Shivi Drori, Gva'Ot's chief winemaker — this Reserve is a rare expression of Israel's viticultural heritage. The vines are trained in the form of a chalice and grown without irrigation, concentrating the fruit naturally in the Judean Hills.

Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, the wine delivers a profile that is red-fruited, light yet complex, with elegant structure and a long, refined finish. True to the Reserve series ethos: only the winery's finest specialty wines make the cut, oak-aged for extended periods to achieve exceptional depth and character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby
• Nose: Red cherry, pomegranate, subtle spice, and a whisper of cedar
• Palate: Light-bodied with bright acidity, silky tannins, and layered complexity
• Finish: Long and harmonious

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at 16–18°C
• Pairs beautifully with lamb, roasted poultry, aged cheeses, and charcuterie
• Decant 20–30 minutes before serving to fully open the bouquet

Kosher. 750ml.

Antinori Napa Valley Chardonnay A-26 Vineyard — Napa Valley 2022

The Antinori family has been making wine for over six centuries, and their Napa Valley project brings that same uncompromising pursuit of excellence to California’s most celebrated appellation. The A-26 Vineyard Chardonnay is sourced from a single estate block in Napa Valley, vinified to showcase the site’s natural tension between richness and precision. The 2022 vintage is a tour de force — earning 95 points from James Suckling and 94 from Wine Spectator — a Chardonnay of extraordinary balance, energy, and detail that drinks beautifully now and will reward cellaring through 2031.

The nose is bright and inviting: white nectarine, Meyer lemon, salted lemon, marzipan, raw almonds, dried flowers, honeysuckle, and toasted brioche. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, delicate and sleek — a wonderful tension between rich aromatics and a juicy thread of fresh Fuji apple, lemon curd, and caramelized pineapple, all framed by beautiful, energizing acidity. The finish is silky, long, and highly detailed.

James Suckling 95 — “Delicate and sleek with beautiful acidity that brings balance and energy. Silky and lingering.” (Vintage 2022).

Wine Spectator 94 — “What makes this wine memorable is the wonderful tension between rich aromatics and its sleek, juicy thread of fresh Fuji apple, lemon curd and caramelized pineapple. Long, expressive and highly detailed finish.” (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Antinori, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Vineyard: A-26 Estate Vineyard
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White nectarine, Meyer lemon, marzipan, honeysuckle, toasted brioche, Fuji apple, lemon curd, caramelized pineapple, silky finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2031
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roast halibut, truffle risotto, soft-ripened cheeses, roast chicken with cream sauce

Six centuries of Italian winemaking mastery, one exceptional Napa vineyard — Antinori’s A-26 Chardonnay is California through a Florentine lens.

Explore Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay Napa Valley

Winemaker Description

This profound and powerful Chardonnay exhibits a rich, complex intensity that can only be found in unfiltered wines. The grapes are predominantly grown in the Carneros region where bay breezes and morning fog combine to create the cooler climate ideal for growing Chardonnay rich with concentrated flavors.

The single square mile of hillside pioneered by Peter Newton in 1977 is an impressive site, with expansive vistas of Napa Valley and beyond. It was the conclusion of his irreverent quest to create wines that would capture the multifaceted character of Napa: embracing the radiant California sun whilst featuring the structure offered by the valley's cool, foggy nights.

He understood Spring Mountain was the place he was looking for to create this rare, fresh expression of Napa. The terraced mountain estate has less than one-fifth of its total 490 acres planted to vines at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,600 feet above sea level.

The non-farmed acreage remains in its native forested state providing natural habitat for indigenous wildlife.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2022 Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay (Napa Valley) is a benchmark for the "unfiltered" style in California—a technique Newton pioneered in the early 1980s. This wine is prized for its texture and complexity, which comes from bottled-in sediment that would normally be stripped away by filtration.

The "White Label" is the standard Napa Valley Unfiltered bottling. It sits above their entry-level "Skyside" line but below the ultra-premium "Single Vineyard" series (like the Beckstoffer Carneros Lake). It is widely considered one of the best value-to-quality ratios in luxury Napa Chardonnay.

Unique Winemaking Approach

Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay embodies a unique winemaking philosophy that emphasizes the true essence of the vineyard. By employing small-batch techniques and avoiding filtration, the wine retains its natural flavors and complexities. The result is a vibrant and rich Chardonnay that showcases the terroir of Napa Valley. This method is not only environmentally friendly but also allows the wine to express its authentic character.

Tasting Notes

This exquisite Chardonnay offers a delightful palate with notes of fresh pear, green apple, and hints of tropical fruits. The creamy texture is complemented by a subtle oak influence, providing depth without overwhelming the palate. You'll appreciate the wine's balanced acidity that leads to a lingering finish, making it perfect for pairing with seafood, poultry, or enjoyed alone.

Food Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. For optimal enjoyment, serve it slightly chilled at 50-55°F. It complements grilled salmon, creamy pasta dishes, and even light salads exceptionally well. This wine is an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions, ensuring it meets the varied tastes of all wine enthusiasts.

Frog’s Leap Concrete Aged Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc that is fermented and aged entirely in concrete tanks (sometimes referred to as “concrete eggs”), rather than in oak or primarily stainless steel. This concrete aging preserves purity and freshness of fruit while adding mineral texture and balance without oak influence.

The wine typically shows crisp, bright citrus and stone fruit aromas with a flinty, earthy, and chalky mineral character — a style that emphasizes purity and terroir. On the palate it’s balanced and elegant, with racy acidity and aromatic richness, making it refreshing and food-friendly.

Because of the concrete aging, this Sauvignon Blanc often leans toward minerality and stony notes rather than overt tropical fruit, offering a distinctive expression of Rutherford fruit in a non-oaky, texturally intriguing style

Experience Pinto Holot: A Unique Red Blend

Winemaker Description

Incredible body and richness, yet already balanced, tannins already very round. Great acidity and spice allow for a never-ending finish. Powerful and complex aromas of ripe black fruit, dried herbs and spices, coffee and dark chocolate.

A blend of Bordeaux varieties, but featuring the desert’s strong varieties – mostly Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot. After diluting fruit on the vines, we received grapes of remarkable concentration and quality. The result is a ‘big’ wine, which will age beautifully for years to come, and develop complexity and character. The wine was aged for over 12 months in oak barrels. Gives us a glimpse on the potential for great reds from the desert. HOLOT is a series of blends from varieties identified as best performers in the desert terroir. It is a result of meticulous care, from the vineyard – through the winemaking process. Holot Red is a blend of Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, all growing here in the desert.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2023 Pinto Winery "Holot" Red Blend is a premium, kosher wine produced in Israel's Negev Desert. This specific vintage is part of the winery's flagship series, which focuses on varieties that thrive in extreme desert terroir.

• Food Pairings: Best paired with robust dishes like grilled lamb, ribeye steak, hearty stews, or aged cheeses.

What Makes Pinto Holot Special?

Pinto Holot Red Blend is a remarkable wine that stands out due to its unique blend and exceptional quality. Sourced from the Negrev Desert, this kosher wine is crafted with care, ensuring a vibrant taste profile. The wine embodies both tradition and innovation, making it a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The carefully selected grapes provide a rich flavor that lingers with each sip, making it a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.

Tasting Notes and Food Pairings

This exquisite red blend is characterized by its bold flavors and a smooth finish. It boasts hints of dark berries, cherries, and subtle spices, creating a well-rounded palate that is hard to resist. Because of its complexity, Pinto Holot pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to rich pasta sauces, enhancing the dining experience. So, whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this wine is an excellent companion.

Why Choose Kosher Wine?

Kosher wines like Pinto Holot are produced under strict guidelines that ensure quality and integrity. These wines are not only suitable for those following kosher dietary laws but also offer a guarantee of excellence. The meticulous production methods contribute to a wine that is both flavorful and respectable. Therefore, choosing Pinto Holot means choosing a wine that is made with care, respect for tradition, and a passion for quality.

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

Vinous 93 Points | The pale lemon-gold colored 2019 Coutet is a thrill ride from the get-go, exploding from the glass with fantastically intense scents of tangerine peel, lime blossoms and lemon marmalade over a core of pineapple upside-down cake, candied ginger, ripe apricots and clover honey plus suggestions of chanterelles and musk perfume. The palate is equally electric and exhilarating, prancing around the palate with a whole myriad of candied citrus, stone fruit and citrus flavors, charged by a racy backbone of acidity, finishing beautifully textured and with an epically long firework display of minerals. Apart from all that, it is pretty darn delicious.

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | A soft-edged and forward-styled version, with lemon meringue, warmed peach and fresh pineapple and mango notes all mixing together. Features a pie crust accent that holds sway on the finish. Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Drink now.

Memo Summary Notes

The Château Coutet 2019 is widely considered one of the standout sweet wines of its vintage in Barsac. Known as the "First Growth of Barsac" (Premier Cru Classé), Coutet is famous for its "knife-like" acidity (the name Coutet is derived from the Gascon word for knife), which provides a refreshing counterpoint to its intense sweetness.

Pair with 

Classic: Foie gras terrine or Roquefort blue cheese. 

Savory: Roast chicken with herbs or spicy Asian cuisine (the sweetness tames the heat).

Dessert: Fruit tarts, particularly those with apricot, peach, or lemon curd.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2013

The Wine Advocate 95 Points | The 2013 Valadorna (mostly Merlot with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot) is yet another home run in this blockbuster collection of new releases from Tenuta di Arceno in the southern part of Chianti Classico (Castelnuovo Berardegna). This is a firm and tightly knit expression that is packed tight with black fruit, tobacco, tar and dark chocolate. The wine shows enormous aromatic intensity, but then it slims down just a touch in the mouth to offer an elegantly tapered finish.

Decanter 94 Points | Compared to the older and warmer 2011, which is a bit rustic and jammy, this 2013 is a fairly classic vintage for Merlot. It was harvested in September, marking a return to the usual picking dates. The percentage of the Merlot here reaches 74% of the blend, in order to maximise its fleshy character in a relatively cool year. The nose is evolved yet with an amazing complexity of tobacco, earthy tones, clean leather and balsamic depth. On the palate cassis fruit melds with leather and spices, supported by polymerised tannins and natural refreshing acidity. - Decanter Magazine, February 2021

James Suckling 94 Points | Very intense nose of blackberries, dark chocolate, sandalwood, vanilla, treacle and tar. Full-bodied with plenty of dark fruit, but lots of black-olive undertones and bright acidity keep this fresh, while firm tannins carve out an elegant, polished shape. Drink in 2021.

Memo Summary Notes

The Tenuta di Arceno "Valadorna" 2013 is a powerhouse Super Tuscan that represents the "Right Bank" Bordeaux style of the estate. While the flagship Arcanum focuses on Cabernet Franc, Valadorna is a Merlot-led blend sourced from the coolest, sandiest blocks of the estate in the southern Chianti Classico zone (Castelnuovo Berardegna).

As of late 2025, the 2013 vintage is considered a "Classic" and "Elegantly Tapered" expression, currently at its absolute peak drinking window.

• Food: This is a "Meat Wine." It pairs perfectly with Bistecca alla Fiorentina, herb-crusted roast beef, or wild boar ragù.

• Cheese: Aged Pecorino Toscano or a sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Pride Mountain Vineyards sits astride the Napa-Sonoma county line at 2,100 feet elevation on Spring Mountain, farming some of the most coveted mountain fruit in California. Their Merlot is consistently one of the finest expressions of the variety in the state — rich, structured, and built to age, with the tension and complexity that only high-altitude mountain viticulture can deliver.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

James Suckling — 94 Points | Lush aromas of Damson plums, blackcurrants, and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving notes of mocha, blueberry bush, graphite, and licorice. Well balanced and textural. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck — 91 Points | Spicy, herbal, black cherry, and leather-like notes all emerge from the 2022 Merlot — medium-bodied, juicy, plump, incredibly satisfying, and delicious, with ripe tannins and integrated acidity.

Vinous — 91 Points | Packed with blackberry jam, chocolate, licorice, espresso, menthol, and tobacco. Full-bodied and potent — a huge punch from a powerful 2022 vintage.

Wine Advocate — 90 Points | Includes 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Red and black cherries lead the nose, joined by hints of coffee and chocolate. Full-bodied, plush, and velvety with decent acidity and ample length on the finish.

Winemaker Description

Generous would be an understatement in describing the fruit of the 2022 Pride Mountain Merlot. Blackberries dominate the first impression before unfurling into aromas of black cherry and ripe plum, carefully accented by hints of bay and chocolate with a touch of sage. The juicy, ripe fruit makes for a mouth-watering first sip, kept in check by considerable tension from balanced acidity and supple tannin structure. Long, luxurious finish. Stunning now and will continue to impress for years to come.

• Producer: Pride Mountain Vineyards
• Appellation: Napa Valley / Sonoma County, Spring Mountain, California
• Blend: 85% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
• Elevation: 2,100 feet, Spring Mountain
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Rich, structured, mountain Merlot
• Format: 750ml

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Decanter 92 Points | Attractive harmony of ripe fruit aromas with some raisin notes, touches of blackcurrant and strawberry. Ripe and juicy, very fresh.

Memo Summary Notes

The Elvi Siblings by Mesorah 2022 is a refined, kosher-certified red blend from the Montsant region of Spain. This specific bottling is a collaboration within the Cohen family (the founders of Elvi Wines), designed by siblings David and Leah Cohen to be a more accessible, "approachable" version of their flagship Clos Mesorah estate wine.

This wine is a blend of 80% Grenache & 20% Carignan.
 
 

Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits — Burgundy 2020

Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer is one of Burgundy’s most compelling small estates, and their Hautes-Côtes de Nuits is a masterclass in what old vines and meticulous winemaking can achieve at a village level. Sourced from one hectare of 60-year-old Pinot Noir planted in the lieux-dits En Foigery and Les Castaings in Magny-lès-Villers, the 2020 vintage is vinified with a pre-fermentation cold soak and spontaneous fermentation in cement tank, then aged 18 months in a combination of two-thirds 228-liter barrels (20% new oak) and one-third terracotta jar — a rare and thoughtful approach that preserves freshness and amplifies terroir. Bottled without filtration for maximum purity and expression.

The nose is spicier and slightly more deeply pitched than expected for the appellation: plum, black cherry, and subtle earth. On the palate, bigger and richer medium-weight flavors are framed by fine tension and lip-smacking minerality — fresh but serious, with clean, elegant tannins and an impressively long finish. Allen Meadows of Burghound calls it simply: “One to buy.”

Allen Meadows, Burghound — “A spicier and slightly more deeply pitched nose of plum, black cherry and subtle earth gives way to bigger and richer medium-weight flavors that also possess fine tension on the impressively long finish. One to buy.”

• Producer: Domaine Hoffmann-Jayer, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits AOC
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Vine Age: 60 years
• Vineyards: En Foigery & Les Castaings, Magny-lès-Villers — 1ha
• Vinification: Cold soak, spontaneous fermentation in cement, 18 months in barrel (20% new) & terracotta jar, unfiltered
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Plum, black cherry, spice, earth, mineral, red fruit, elegant tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–8 years
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, duck breast, mushroom tart, gratin dauphinois, mild aged cheeses

Sixty-year-old vines, terracotta aging, and zero filtration — Hoffmann-Jayer’s Hautes-Côtes de Nuits is village Burgundy at its most honest and compelling.