90 + Points | Critical Acclaim

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 95 Points | A very pretty red with blackberry, black-cherry, flint and crushed-stone aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied with a firm, focused tannin structure under the poised fruit. Long and caressing. Complex and crunchy. Drink or hold.

The Wine Advocate 91 Points | The 2023 Cabernet Franc Magdalena Vineyard boasts slightly darker-hued fruit than the regular bottling, with the aromas tending toward black raspberries and black cherries. At the same time, it's perhaps a bit less leafy but still reasonably floral. In the mouth, the wine is medium- to full-bodied and silky-textured, with soft tannins that linger on the finish.

Winemaker Description 

Our single-vineyard iteration of our pillar red variety, Cabernet Franc, with more weight and structure than our traditional version. This fruit hails from a two-and-a-half-acre block within our Magdalena Vineyard- a warmer site which produces fruit that is amongst our ripest picks in each vintage. This additional development yields bold tannins up front which advance into red fruit transitioning to purple; black cherries, red plums, holiday seasoned cranberries. Texture, depth, and freshness are found in green flavors and garden soil earthiness, thanks to the rain of the earlier part of the '23 vintage. A drier and hotter fall is to thank for the counterbalancing fruit and composition.

Upon release, this Cab Franc has youthful muscularity to it, and has been destined to cellar beautifully. Drink now through 2038.

Perfect for pairing with rosemary roasted Parsnips and Lollipop Lamb Chops or Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Pomegranate Seeds and Pepitas.

Memo Summary Notes

The Hermann J. Wiemer Cabernet Franc "Magdalena Vineyard" 2023 is a standout single-vineyard red from arguably the most prestigious estate in the Finger Lakes. While the winery is world-famous for Riesling, their Magdalena Vineyard—a warmer, 2.5-acre site on the western shores of Seneca Lake—is known for producing the region's most "serious," age-worthy Cabernet Franc.

The 2023 vintage is a significant release, as it was recently highlighted by James Suckling as one of the top-scoring New York reds ever tasted.

Pair with - Meats: Roast pork belly with sweet soy, lollipop lamb chops, or a classic steak with arugula and Parmigiano. 

• Vegetarian: Maple-roasted butternut squash with pomegranate seeds or a hearty lentil soup.

• Service: This is a "serious" red; decant for 30 minutes to let the flinty mineral and tobacco notes emerge from the primary fruit.

Hermann J. Wiemer · Semi-Dry Riesling · Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes · 2024

Hermann J. Wiemer is the founding father of Finger Lakes Riesling. A German-born viticulturist who trained in the Mosel before planting vines on the western shore of Seneca Lake in 1979, Wiemer proved that New York could produce world-class Riesling — and the estate he built continues to set the standard decades later. Their Semi-Dry Riesling is the wine that converts skeptics: sourced from early picks in vineyard blocks surrounding Seneca Lake, it carries residual sugar with the grace and balance that only great Riesling terroir can deliver. Certified Sustainable. JS:92. At $24.99, it’s one of the most versatile and crowd-pleasing bottles in the Finger Lakes canon — the wine you bring when you’re not sure what everyone drinks, and it always wins.

The 2024 opens with aromas of wildflower honey, ripe Bosch pear, peach, apricot, and sweet florals. On the palate: succulent and fruit-forward with a refreshing lightness — the residual sugar is perfectly balanced by bright acidity, finishing juicy and barely dry with fantastic vitality. Drink now through 2029.

“Rippling with peach, apricot and sweet floral aromas… succulent but also very fresh in the juicy, barely dry finish. Fantastic balance and vitality at the end. Sustainable.”
— James Suckling, 92 Points (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard (est. 1979)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes, New York
• Varietal: 100% Riesling
• Style: Semi-Dry (off-dry)
• Certification: Certified Sustainable
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Wildflower honey, Bosch pear, peach, apricot, sweet florals, bright acidity, juicy barely-dry finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2029
• Food Pairings: Spicy Thai, Vietnamese pho, sushi, soft-ripened cheese, fruit tarts, light charcuterie

JS:92 · Certified Sustainable — Finger Lakes Riesling from the man who started it all.

Honig Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2022

Honig is one of Napa Valley’s most trusted family estates — a multi-generational winery committed to sustainable viticulture and the kind of honest, terroir-driven Cabernet that made Napa famous. Sourced from estate vineyards in the heart of the valley and aged in a combination of French and American oak, the 2022 delivers everything that defines great Napa Cabernet: concentrated dark fruit, elegant structure, silky tannins, and a long, complex finish. James Suckling awarded it 91 points; Wine Advocate 90. At under $60, it is one of the most compelling values in Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

The nose is inviting and expressive: blackberry, kirsch, red plum, dried flowers, and walnuts. On the palate, it is full-bodied and luscious, with layers of black cherry, cranberry, cedar, loam, and subtle bitter spice, framed by ripe yet lightly chewy tannins and a silky-velvety texture that leads to a long, intense finish. Drink now or cellar through 2030+.

James Suckling 91 — “Attractive nose of blackberries, kirsch and hints of dried flowers and walnuts. Full and well-structured with ripe yet lightly chewy tannins and deep, succulent fruit underneath. Intense, bitter-spice finish.” (Vintage 2022).

Wine Advocate 90 — “Delivers notes of cedar, loam, black cherries and dried spices… full-bodied, silky-velvety in texture and softly tannic, with ample length and texture on the finish.” (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Honig Vineyard & Winery, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: French and American oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, kirsch, red plum, black cherry, cedar, loam, dried spice, bitter-spice finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2030+
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb, beef Wellington, aged cheddar, mushroom risotto

A 91-point Napa Valley Cabernet at an honest price — Honig is the benchmark for what family-farmed Napa Cab can be.

Expert Reviews - Vingage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Tonya Pitts writes 92 Points | There are so many gems coming out of the 2023 vintage in California. Flavors of fresh-picked red berries, plums, pomegranates, mint sprigs, a kiss of earth and sunshine tell the story of a short but almost perfect growing season. Pick this one up and give it a whirl on the dinner table. 

The Tasting Panel 91 Points | This bright and shining red is a floral beauty packed with peony, violets, orange blossom, and red tea. Cherry pie arises on the midpalate.

Winemaker Description 

Production:
• Regeneratively farmed
• Certified sustainable per “Lodi Rules”
• Aged 12 mos. in seasoned French oak
• Vegan-friendly

Composition: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon • 25% Nero d'Avola

Eye: Deep garnet core, translucent ruby rim.

Nose: Gardenia, lilac, lavender, violet, black cherry, dried rose petals, spicy cedar, cigar box, and sweet vanilla.

Palate: Ripe blue & black fruits with subtle citrus, eucalyptus & brown sugar. Structured yet lush and creamy with soft, supple tannins that lead to an endlessly
delightful finish.

Pairing inspirations: Grilled portobello mushroom with balsamic garlic glaze, Moroccan spiced lamb, spaghetti Bolognese, vegetable lasagne, wild mushroom risotto, Margherita pizza.

House of Brown is a second-generation wine label under the BROWN Napa Valley umbrella, which also includes Chaos Theory and is anchored by flagship Brown Estate.

The Brown family have been in Napa since 1980. Siblings Deneen, Coral, and David began making wine in 1996. Raised by two medical professionals in a “Blue-Zone” household in Southern California, they all pitched in at their parents’ medical clinic. There, they adopted what would become a guiding principle in their wine business: Do no harm.

The creation of House of Brown was inspired by an extraordinary community of wine consumers who for over two decades had been finding themselves at home with Brown Estate, and in 2017 began assembling at the family’s then newly opened Brown Downtown Napa tasting room. This period marked an evolution in wine consumer demographics, with the industry at large seeing an influx of young and culturally diverse enthusiasts coming to the fore — dynamics that have been manifest at Brown for decades.

House of Brown was established in 2018 to expand access to the Brown wine experience, then nearly 25 years strong. The label designs are an homage to the brand’s Feel Seen ethos, and to the sense of welcome and belonging that are hallmarks at Brown. Produced with the same commitment to purity and balance that is foundational to Brown Estate, House of Brown wines are regeneratively farmed, certified sustainable, and vegan-friendly.

House of Brown is 100% family-owned + 100% Black-owned, and the brand is women-led.

Memo Summary Notes

The House of Brown Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is a relatively new addition to the "next-generation" lineup from the legendary Brown Estate—Napa Valley's first Black-owned estate winery. This Lodi bottling is designed to be inclusive, sustainable, and highly aromatic.

Highly versatile. It pairs excellently with Margherita pizza, grilled portobello mushrooms with balsamic glaze, Moroccan spiced lamb, or wild mushroom risotto.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 91 Points | Fresh and vibrant aromas of stone fruit, kumquat and orange blossoms flicker across the nose. Enticing flavors of pineapple, yellow plums, cinnamon and a kiss of citrus landing midpalate. Enjoy with sunshine and friends.

Huia Sauvignon Blanc — Marlborough 2025

Huia Vineyards was founded in 1994 by Claire and Mike Allan with a simple conviction: that Marlborough's finest expression comes from small-scale, unhurried winemaking rooted in the land. Today, under owner Tom Pegler and winemaker Josh Lee — whose career spans Greywacke, Dog Point, and biodynamic estates across Europe — that conviction is stronger than ever. Every grape is grown organically on estate vineyards and sourced from a handful of trusted Marlborough growers who share Huia's values. The result is a Sauvignon Blanc of rare purity, precision, and place.

The nose is captivating: pink grapefruit, lime blossom, crystallized ginger, cantaloupe, passionfruit, and honeydew melon. On the palate, the wine is pure and lively — Granny Smith apple, gooseberry, key lime pie, and a touch of pie crust and hazelnut, carried by raw, energetic acidity and evolving length. The finish is refreshing, balanced, and utterly delicious.

Wine Advocate 91 (Prior Vintage 2024) — "Juicy, uncomplicated and tropical, with lashings of fresh fruit flavors underpinned by crunchy acidity. Everything is in place here. This is quite delicious." — Erin Larkin

67 Wine Buyer Bart Hopkins — "A delicate golden shimmer in the glass with scintillating aromas of pink grapefruit, lime blossom, crystallized ginger and honeydew melon. Pure and lively in the mouth with harmonious flavors that dance across the palate with a ballerina-like weightlessness. Delicious!"

• Producer: Huia Vineyards, Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Style: White Wine — Dry, Crisp & Aromatic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pink grapefruit, lime blossom, crystallized ginger, cantaloupe, passionfruit, gooseberry, Granny Smith apple, hazelnut, energetic acidity
• Best Paired With: Seafood, sushi, poultry, salads, spicy stir fry, goat cheese

A 91-point biodynamic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc at an honest price — Huia is the benchmark for what organic, small-scale New Zealand winemaking can achieve.

Husch Vineyards · Pinot Noir · Anderson Valley · Mendocino County, California · 2022 · 750ml

Husch Vineyards holds a special place in California wine history: founded in 1971, it was the first winery established in the Anderson Valley, a remote, fog-laced appellation in Mendocino County that has since become one of the state’s most celebrated addresses for Pinot Noir. The valley’s cool, maritime climate — shaped by Pacific fog that rolls in through the Navarro River corridor — produces Pinot Noir that sits at a compelling stylistic crossroads: darker and earthier than Russian River or Sonoma Coast, yet more structured and spice-driven than Willamette Valley Oregon. Husch has been farming this land for over fifty years, and the estate Pinot Noir remains the benchmark expression of what makes Anderson Valley special.

Lively ruby in the glass with an inviting, complex nose of raspberry compote, strawberry jam, dried florals, dried herbs, and a savory note of portobello mushroom. On the palate: baked red plum, pomegranate, and orange zest, interwoven with vanilla bean, earth, and mineral, carried by smooth tannins and lifted acidity that brings focus and length to a dry, supple finish. Wine Enthusiast awarded 92 points, calling it “a legacy family in the Anderson Valley still going strong.” Drink now through 2029. Pair with coq au vin, mushroom ravioli, roasted duck, grilled salmon, or creamy cheeses.

• Producer: Husch Vineyards (est. 1971, Anderson Valley — first winery in the appellation)
• Wine: Estate Pinot Noir · Anderson Valley
• Vintage: 2022
• Origin: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Style: Earthy, spice-driven, food-friendly Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
• Score: Wine Enthusiast 92 Points
• Drinking Window: Now–2029
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry compote, strawberry, dried florals, portobello mushroom, red plum, pomegranate, orange zest, vanilla, earth, mineral, supple finish
• Pair With: Coq au vin · Mushroom ravioli · Roasted duck · Grilled salmon · Creamy cheeses

Anderson Valley’s founding winery, 92pts Wine Enthusiast — California Pinot Noir at its most authentic.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
“This lively wine offers aromas of raspberry compote, strawberry jam, florals, dried herbs and portobello mushroom on the nose. The flavors on the palate are baked red plum, pomegranate and orange zest, interwoven with vanilla bean, earth, mineral and a dry, supple finish. From a legacy family in the Anderson Valley still going strong.”

Bart Hopkins — 67wino.shop 
“The beautiful Anderson Valley of Mendocino County is home to some of California’s best Pinot Noir. I look at it as a stylistic bridge between Russian River–Sonoma Coast and the Willamette Valley of Oregon. The fruit leans more to the darker spectrum with earthy complexity and a spicy character. Aromas of cherry and strawberry mingle with shades of violet, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Well balanced and harmonious with smooth tannins and lifted acidity that brings focus to the fruit on the long flavorful finish.”

 Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

James Suckling 97 Points | A superb and rich chardonnay with driven phenolics that frame the wine, giving it form and intensity. It’s full-bodied but not heavy. Dried apples, nuts, peach pie and hints of salted butter and honey. It’s flavorful and intense. Real Napa chardonnay. 70% Wente clone and the rest Calera. So drinkable now, but will age very well. 

Winemaker Description 

Delicate aromas of Bartlett pear and fresh-sliced pineapple are lifted by notes of jasmine and citrus zest, maturing into subtle warming tones of baking spices, brioche, and vanilla custard. On the palate, the flavors are intensely focused, yet the pleasant round body fills the mouth with a wide, elegant mid-palate. The salinity and minerality of this wine bring a refinement that is gently carried by bright, integrated acidity. 

Icardi Barbaresco Montubert Organic 2020 750ml

A benchmark Barbaresco from one of Piedmont's most principled organic estates. The Icardi family has farmed without herbicides or pesticides since 1914, and the Montubert vineyard expresses the full nobility of Nebbiolo — structured, aromatic, and built to age gracefully.

James Suckling 93 Points: Red-fruited and spiced with crushed walnuts and licorice. Medium-bodied with polished, delicate tannins. Fresh and vivid fruit character with a polished mineral finish and hints of citrus peel and dried herbs.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points: Sweetly spiced and charming, showing aromas of candied cherries, allspice, cedar, and mixed wild herbs. Elegant tannins with flavors of dried cranberries and dried orange peel. Drink now–2035.

Wine Spectator 90 Points: Savory with juniper, eucalyptus, and mint accenting a cherry, strawberry, and floral core. Lean and taut with dusty tannins. Best from 2027 through 2042.

Food Pairings

• Braised short ribs, osso buco, and slow-roasted lamb
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and hard cheeses
• Truffle pasta, mushroom risotto, and game meats
• Roasted duck and venison

Wine Details

• Varietal: Nebbiolo
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2020
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Producer: Icardi

Producer Notes

Icardi is a certified organic estate in Piedmont’s Barolo zone — The Parej is their single-vineyard Barolo, made from 100% Nebbiolo grown on the estate’s organic vineyards. Roasted cherries, warmed clove, star anise, and dried floral hints rise from the glass as the wine opens. Mouthfilling on the palate with wild berries — fresh, dried, and preserved — combined with oak spice and superfine tannins. Dense and compact with plum, cherry, leather, forest floor, and tar. Well-balanced with a lingering finish. Best from 2027 through 2042.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

• Wine Enthusiast 91 pts | Roasted cherries, warmed clove, and star anise with dried floral hints and wild thyme. Mouthfilling with wild berries, oak spice, and superfine tannins. Drink now–2040. — Jeff Porter
• Wine Spectator 91 pts | Dense and compact with plum, cherry, leather, forest floor, and tar. Well-balanced with a lingering finish and chalky tannins. Best from 2027–2042. — Bruce Sanderson

Food Pairings

• Braised beef short ribs or osso buco
• Truffle pasta or mushroom risotto
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno
• Roasted lamb or wild boar

Winemaker Description

Strikingly rich in color and extract, the 2018 Rubicon is unquestionably a precocious, hedonistic wine. The exotic, well-knit aromas and flavors include ripe cassis, allspice, star anise, vanilla and black licorice. Upon entry, this full-bodied wine envelops the palate with its luxurious concentration and supple, silky tannins, supported by vibrant freshness from the balanced acidity and perfectly-integrated French oak. Very long and expansive in the finish, the 2018 Rubicon will be memorable for decades to come.

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2018

James Suckling 97 Points | Subtle and complex red with blackberry, black truffle, sweet tobacco and mahogany. Highlights of lavender and violets. Full-bodied and very tight with finesse and tension. Very polished, fine tannins. Long finish. Delicious already, but best after 2022.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | The 2018 Rubicon is based on 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Classy notes of crème de cassis, lead pencil shavings, freshly crushed stone, and cedar. Beautifully balanced with gorgeous tannins, integrated acidity, and outstanding length. Give this classic beauty 4–5 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following 15–20.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Alluring aromatically, with restrained yet complex notes of mulberry, loganberry and anise. Refined structure drapes nicely on the finish with a mineral hint. Drink now through 2035.

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

The Wine Advocate 94 Points | The 2019 Gold Vidal Icewine was fermented and aged for about 14 weeks in 90% new French oak. It comes in with 272 grams of residual sugar, 10.5 of total acidity and 10% alcohol. Rich and unctuous, this also has classic aromatics and a certain level of freshness that keeps it from being particularly cloying. This is also completely delicious, with a little of bit of spicy apricots on the mouthwatering finish. The acidity lifts the fruit and allows it to shine through. It's never going to be a nervy wine, but it is not flabby either. If you like stickies, this won't disappoint. It should age very well, acquiring a bit more character along the way. Many will like it the way it is, but it can acquire another dimension in time. Best After 2021

Memo Summary Note

The Inniskillin Vidal Gold Icewine 2019 from the Niagara Peninsula is a luxurious, oak-aged expression that has earned world-class critical acclaim for this specific vintage.

• Traditional Pairings: Classic desserts like Crème Brûlée, apple tarte tatin, or a tropical fruit compote.

• Savoury & Bold: It pairs brilliantly with Blue Cheese (like Roquefort), foie gras, or even a spicy Thai curry.

• The "Niagara" Way: Try it with a brown butter lobster salad or a Vidal onion soup with cheese croutons.

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

Antonio Galloni writes:  The 2020 Cepparello is a total stunner, just as it was last year. Deeply colored, layered and explosive in the glass, the 2020 possesses striking textural richness and overall intensity. Black cherry, graphite, plum, spice and lavender flesh out effortlessly. There's tremendous pedigree and sheer stature here. Cepparello is surely one of the wines of the year.  Drinking 2027 to 2045.  - Vinous 98

The Wine Advocate, Monica Larner, 96 Points | Supple and smooth, the 2020 Cepparello brings Sangiovese to soaring heights in a manner only Paolo De Marchi can manage. This is his second to last vintage before he would retire and sell this historic estate. The wine opens to medium to full-bodied concentration with dark plum and redcurrant. Those cede to sweet spice, earth, crushed stone, rusty nail and candied orange peel. Give the wine more time to flesh out with cellar age.

The Wine Spectator 96 Points | Expressive and sumptuous from the get-go, this red features cherry, strawberry, rose, orange peel, mineral and Tuscan herb aromas and flavors. Sangiovese. Best from 2025 through 2045.

James Suckling 94 Points | Attractive red and dark berries with dried flowers, nutmeg and cocoa powder. Dried orange peel and wet earth, too. Medium- to full-bodied, toned and steady with fine-grained tannins that are slightly chalky. Polished and even with a lingering finish. Try after 2026.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Decanter 90 Points | Attractive and perfumed, with wild herb and spiced berry aromatics, vibrant palate of sour cherry, spice and a neat acidity. 

The Wine Enthusiast by Jesica Vargas writes 89 Points | The grapes are sourced from old vines in the Maule Valley. This País preserves its varietal typicity, offering intense strawberry aromas. The earthy palate is shaped by tart berries and hints of linden tea, alongside just enough acidity to make it a good match for Spanish tapas or Margherita pizza. 

Memo Summary Notes

The J. Bouchon "País Viejo" 2023 is a celebrated "rescue wine" from Chile’s Maule Valley. While the Rivera del Notro you looked at earlier is a raw, small-production natural wine, this "Viejo" (Old) bottling is arguably the wine that brought the País grape back into the global spotlight.

It is produced from 100-year-old bush vines that are dry-farmed (no irrigation), forcing the roots deep into granitic soils to find water and nutrients.

Pair with

The "Bouchon Pick": They specifically recommend this with fatty fish (like salmon or tuna) or simple pasta dishes. 

Rustic: Charcuterie, pork sausages (longaniza), or a classic margherita pizza.

Experience the Elegance of J Vineyards Pinot Noir

Discover the vibrant elegance of J Vineyards Pinot Noir from California's renowned Russian River Valley. This exceptional 2022 vintage captures the essence of cool-climate winemaking with its bright, expressive character.

Tasting Notes:

• Bright sliced strawberry and citrus aromas
• Energetic mineral undertones
• Medium-bodied with vivid focus
• Crisp, refreshing finish

Expert Acclaim:
James Suckling 92 Points - "An energetic pinot with bright sliced strawberry and citrus character. Some mineral. Medium body. Vivid and focused."

Perfect Pairings:
This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses. Its bright acidity and elegant structure make it ideal for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment.

About J Vineyards:
J Vineyards has been crafting premium wines in Sonoma County since 1986, specializing in cool-climate varietals that showcase the unique terroir of Russian River Valley.

Overview of J Vineyards Pinot Noir

The J Vineyards Pinot Noir from the 2022 vintage exemplifies the artistry and dedication that the winemakers at J Vineyards pour into every bottle. Sourced primarily from the Russian River Valley, this wine is known for its lush flavors and rich aroma profile. The cool climate of this region allows the grapes to ripen slowly, leading to a full-bodied wine that maintains the characteristic finesse of Pinot Noir. With its vibrant notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle hints of earthiness, this wine is perfect for both casual sipping and special occasions.

Tasting Notes and Pairing Suggestions

The tasting notes of J Vineyards Pinot Noir are as captivating as the beautiful bottle it comes in. On the palate, you will experience layers of ripe red fruits complemented by soft tannins and a lingering finish. The wine presents aromas of fresh strawberries and a whiff of roasted coffee beans, making it an aromatic delight. This Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes such as roast chicken, salmon, or a rich mushroom risotto. Additionally, it makes for an excellent companion with gourmet cheeses, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Why Choose J Vineyards Pinot Noir?

Choosing J Vineyards Pinot Noir means selecting a wine that embodies quality, tradition, and passion. The rigorous selective harvesting process ensures that only the best grapes make it into the bottle, corresponding to the vineyard's commitment to excellence. Moreover, J Vineyards has garnered accolades and awards, making it a trusted name among wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Whether you are celebrating a special milestone, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a night in, this Pinot Noir delivers an exceptional taste profile that will impress. Elevate your wine collection today with J Vineyards Pinot Noir!

J. Lohr Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon — Paso Robles 2022

J. Lohr is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estate vineyards across Paso Robles, Monterey, and Napa Valley. Seven Oaks is their flagship Paso Robles Cabernet — named for the majestic valley oaks that shade the estate — and it has become one of the most decorated value Cabernets in California, consistently earning 90+ point scores from the country’s top critics. Paso Robles delivers the warm days and cool nights that produce Cabernet of exceptional ripeness and natural balance, and the 2022 vintage was no exception. Ripe fruit aromas of black cherry and currant are accented by notes of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla from J. Lohr’s authentic barrel aging program — a winemaking approach that has defined Seven Oaks for decades.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is rich and inviting: black cherry, currants, roasted plums, sage, cloves, and damp earth, with a spicy, toasty complexity that punches well above its price point. On the palate, it is full-bodied and plush — big, juicy red fruit, creamy black cherry, vanilla, purple plum, and black currant, with wet clay, cocoa, mint, and mace adding impressive depth. The tannins are softly textured and velvety, leading to a long, gratifying finish. Three critics, three 90+ scores. At this price, it is one of the great values in California Cabernet.

Expert Reviews

The Tasting Panel — 92 Points
“Streamlined, with velvety tannins, this balanced red surpasses expectations for its price point. Creamy notes of black cherry, vanilla, and purple plum bathe the mouth, giving way to a delectable finish of spiced black currant.”

James Suckling — 90 Points
“Currants, sage, roasted plums and cloves on the nose of this rich and spicy red. Full-bodied, plush and toasty, with ripe tannins.”

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points
“Damp earth aromas lead quickly into sharp yet ripe cherry aromas. Likable flavors of black cherry greet the palate, as wet clay, cocoa, mint and mace flavors add impressive complexity at this price point.”

• Producer: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Paso Robles
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Full-bodied, plush, value-driven Paso Robles Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, currants, roasted plum, vanilla, hazelnut, cocoa, mint, velvety tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2028
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, New York strip, lamb, mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, BBQ

Three critics, three 90+ scores — J. Lohr Seven Oaks 2022 is Paso Robles Cabernet at its most generous.

A California Chardonnay benchmark in a generous magnum format — J. Lohr Riverstone Chardonnay 2023 comes from the cool-climate Arroyo Seco appellation in Monterey County, where the Ventana winds off Monterey Bay slow ripening and preserve natural acidity. The result is a full-bodied, richly textured Chardonnay that balances ripe fruit generosity with freshness and finesse.

The nose offers pear, white peach, floral notes, and a hint of baking spice. On the palate it’s round and buttery with flavors of baked apple, toast, brown butter, and honey — ripe and generous, with a soft, lingering finish. A crowd-pleasing style that over-delivers at its price point, especially in the 1.5L magnum format ideal for entertaining.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 91 Points | This full-bodied, round and buttery chardonnay has notes of baked apples, toast and brown butter. Ripe, soft and generous.

• Producer: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, San Jose, California
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-Bodied Chardonnay
• Format: 1.5L Magnum
• Pair With: Triple crème cheese, seafood risotto, mussels in white wine sauce, chicken piccata

J. Lohr Estates is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, farming estate vineyards across Monterey, Paso Robles, and Napa Valley. The Riverstone Chardonnay is sourced from the Arroyo Seco appellation in Monterey County — a cool, wind-swept region ideal for growing Chardonnay with natural freshness and bright acidity. One of California’s best-value Chardonnays, vintage after vintage.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 91 Points | “This full-bodied, round and buttery Chardonnay has notes of baked apples, toast, and brown butter. Ripe, soft, and generous.”

Winemaker Description

A fresh, youthful, and textured Chardonnay with flavors and aromas of pear, floral, white peach, citrus, baking spices, and honey. Full-bodied with refreshing acidity and a rich, smooth finish.

Food Pairings

Fresh seafood risotto, mussels in white wine sauce, chicken piccata, grilled chicken, creamy pasta, and triple crème or Humboldt Fog goat cheese. An excellent aperitif.

• Producer: J. Lohr Estates
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Full-bodied, buttery, lightly oaked California Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | While this wine is currently quiet, it shows a lot of promise. Mouthwatering and long on the palate, it offers attractive citrus pith, delicate white flowers and fresh almonds.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | Grown from a select plot of old vines, this beautiful expression of Valmur is full bodied and rich, with warm oak spices, ripe citrus, white peach, acacia and honeycomb. Approachable in its youth, the wine will cellar well through 2030.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

JamesSuckling.com by Stuart Pigott writes 94 Points | With its aromas of nutty, old-fashioned apple varieties and ripe quince, this striking dry riesling is an unspectacular beauty. It’s medium-bodied with a wonderful harmony of silky acidity, a hauntingly subtle minerality and a very long, stony finish that somehow manages to be very gentle. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. 

Winemaker Description 

The nose here is just a shade riper, with tart citrus flirting with barely ripe apricot, heading toward the peach register though highlighted by lemon curd and lemon zest, pretty citrus elements to brighten it up, even the riper twang of a lime. This has more density, for sure, more richness, though it has plenty of definition. Thinking of these wines in the context of the Rheingau is just crazy; my teeth are aching. The whole collection has acids – I should get the numbers here, if Eva hasn’t already sent them [note to reader: I never got any numbers on the acids b/c I'm just too buried in work right now]. There is a limey quality to this, sticky but fresh, gripping, that I really like. These are very damn good. 

Hans-Josef Becker’s grandfather (J.B.) founded this winery in 1893, and it is home to some truly astounding wines. The Spätlese Trocken is somehow both very serious and firmly structured, yet remains bright and affable. The old vines show incredible concentration - this wine is just a baby and could be cellared for decades. On the other hand, the 2022 vintage displays plenty of juicy, expressive fruit with crushing acidity and a bold mouthfeel. These wines have achieved cult-status for good reason.

Expert Review

2018 Jacques Capsouto Cuvee Marco, Grand Vin Rouge – Score: 90 Points |
This wine is a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, and 20% Syrah. The nose on this wine starts ripe, it is riper than its younger 2019 brother, the Cuvee Samuel. The blend is different as well, and there is much more oak on the Marco. The nose on this wine is ripe, it feels like a Cali Rhone wine more than how the 19 Samuel felt, with black and blue fruit, sweet oak, soy sauce, ripe plum, floral notes, dark and brooding, with roasted animal, and loam. The mouth on this full-bodied wine is ripe, balanced, with good acidity, blackcurrant, blackberry, boysenberry, nice draping tannin, sweet oak, loam, and black tea. The finish on this wine is ripe, with dense black fruit, loam, mushroom, graphite, milk chocolate, and nice smoke. 

40% Grenache Noir 30% Mourvedre 30% Syrah)- Aged in 3-4 yr old barrels for 12 months-

Expert Review- Vintage 2023

Christina Pickard of the Wine Enthusiast writes 93 Points | Lime leaf, waxy citrus, white peach notes and a hint of honey open this Clare Valley Riesling. The combo of dryness, cheek-sucking, orange peel acidity and chalky texture makes for a somewhat austere wine solo, but pair with a creamy goat's cheese or seafood risotto and watch it shine. 

Producer Description 

Originally a pastoral run dating back to 1839, and originally named Wolta Wolta, Jim Barry purchased the land for The Lodge Hill Vineyard in 1977 as he was sure it would “produce some of the best Riesling in the Clare Valley.” Situated at 480 meters above sea level and situated on the Eastern Ranges of the Clare Valley, the grapes at our Lodge Hill Vineyard are exposed to concentrated bursts of sunlight and cool nights which encourage slower ripening. This helps deliver beautiful natural acidity and citrus characters that ripen early because of the small crop it produces. Gentle pressing and a rapid move into the fermentation allows the natural fruit flavors to be preserved.

Aromas of fresh lime, spice, citrus blossom, white peach, and nectarine skins open on the nose. In the mouth, the lime flavors take center stage commanding attention on entry. The fruit is fleshy with considerable weight and framed with a refreshing driving acid. A lot of wine!

Expert Ratings

James Suckling 97 Points | This very concentrated and super-elegant riesling Auslese is still tightly-wound. However, it already has a very wide spectrum of subtle yellow fruit and wild flower aromas. Terrific structure behind the rich, but still medium-bodied palate. Incredibly long, slatey finish with staggering freshness that pulls you back for more of this Mosel masterpiece. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.

Decanter 95 Points | Tangs of cut stone and lime zest are peppered with gunpowder and smoke, but there's a powerful core of ripe lemon, lime and yellow cherry flavours too. While light on its feet, it's an unctuous, supple wine with a pert tangerine sweetness. Quite a bit more expressive in youth than the 2022 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese, it's already hedonistic with a brief decant but certainly ageworthy as well. 

Wine Spectator 94 Points | Delivering power and concentration, this is densely packed in a compact frame. Opens up to reveal impressively fresh flavors of dried thyme and apricot. This white's acidity shows a crunchy texture, and a wet slate note brings a cooling feel to the finish. This is one for the cellar. Best from 2026 through 2046.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2022 Riesling Graacher Himmelreich Auslese is rather shy. The palate tingles with tangerine, ripe, rounded, aromatic, and full of tangy, zesty, sweet, ripe citrus. Wonderfully expressive on the mid-palate and with a subtle finish, full of those vivid aromatics. (Sweet).

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 95 Points | All the ripeness of this very warm vintage, married to wonderful freshness that gives this the light-footedness of a great dancer. Mostly white fruit, but just a hint of fresh pineapple. Long, silky finish. Drink or hold. (2018). 

Robert Parker 93+ Points | The 2018 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese is discreet yet deep and complex on the elegant and spicy nose that exhibits very fine stone fruit aromas. Round, lush and piquant on the palate, this is a crystalline, piquant, persistently salty and stimulating Himmelreich with fine tannins on the finish that add grip and a very light, food-friendly astringency that moderates away the sweetness. Still young, this is a Spätlese to serve with food in 10-15 years. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | This has all of the elements of a great spätlese, with pronounced acidity supporting the ripe peach, yellow apple, mango and spruce flavors, while hints of vanilla and piecrust add to the complexity. Still a bit intense, but this should develop beautifully with age, allowing the minerality to become more prominent. Best from 2022 through 2038. (2018).

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Wine Advocate 94 Points | The 2021 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett is deep and flinty but bright and clear on the refined and elegant nose with beautiful crushed slate aromas. On the palate, this is a rich, round and generous, incredibly lush and supple but crystalline and even pure Sonnenuhr with a highly stimulating, mouth-watering finish. This 2021 shows the great terroir of the cru, in particular in cool vintages due to its exposition that collects the sun's rays in the morning. 

Wine Enthusiast 92 Points | This shows very little sweetness, but is harmonious and well integrated despite the firm acidity that fuels it. Stone- and orchard-fruit notes are flecked by chrysanthemum and cardamom to create the full-spectrum. The finish is long and persistent.

Winemaker Description 

Cassis and lime zest aromas with tart, salty and slate notes.

Try with yellow curry or spring rolls.

Winemaker Description

This Riesling is rich in taste with a fresh, fruity delicate flavor.

Serve slightly chilled.

Expert Reviews 

James Suckling 96 Points | Here is a great Mosel Kabinett that needs a bit more time to show what it is really made of. Still very young with a pronounced yeasty character that slowly recedes with aeration, but the white peach and honeysuckle aromas that emerge are stunning. Extremely vibrant and precise, the slatey acidity making this fabulously graceful. As pure as an Alpine stream running with glacier water.

Wine Spectator 92 Points | This elegant version starts off closed before opening to reveal flavors of jasmine, sweet green apple and Asian pear. Shows impressive purity and inner density, with accents of fresh-cut chive and wet slate. Bitter, pithy acidity moves through, making for the shimmering, razor-edge finish, which lingers. Drink now through 2040. 300 cases imported.

Expert Reviews | Vintage 2020 

96 Points James Suckling | This Spatlese beams you up to Cloud 9, from where you have a wonderful view over the beautiful Mosel Valley. In spite of the considerable concentration, this is super-delicate and precise on the barely medium-bodied palate. Enormously long finish, where you barely feel the natural grape sweetness. Drink or hold. 

95 Points Wine Advocate | The 2020 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese is pure, clear and flinty on the concentrated nose that is reminiscent of a fresh fruit salad served on a slate plate on an early summer morning. Light, lush and highly finessed but seriously structured on the palate, this is a savory, very clear and elegant Sonnenuhr Spätlese with great precision and finesse and highly stimulating salinity and mouth-watering grip on the finish. Rating: 95+ 

Joel Gott Blend No. 815 Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2022

Joel Gott is one of California’s most beloved winemakers — a third-generation vintner who built his reputation on the simple idea that great wine should be approachable, consistent, and honestly priced. Blend No. 815 is his signature Cabernet Sauvignon — the number refers to the specific blend Joel crafts each vintage from select vineyards across California, always chasing the same benchmark of ripe fruit, velvety texture, and reliable quality. It has become one of the most recognized everyday Cabernets in the country, and for good reason: vintage after vintage, it delivers. The 2022 earned 90 points from Wine Enthusiast.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is layered and expressive: raspberries, blackberries, plum, and mocha, with savory notes of damp soil, charcoal, and a whisper of tar that steadily open with air into something genuinely complex. On the palate, red fruit leads into an asphalt minerality, dried plum, dark spice, and espresso bean — velvety tannins carrying through the mid-palate to a long, textured finish of black pepper and cedar. Familiar, satisfying, and built for the table.

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Matt Kettmann) — “Savory, slightly reductive aromas of damp soil, charcoal, and tar meet with dark berry on the nose, steadily opening up with air. The palate’s asphalt minerality gives way to dried plum, dark spice, and espresso bean, making for a familiar experience.” (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Joel Gott Wines, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Blend: No. 815
• Style: Approachable, velvety, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, blackberry, plum, mocha, espresso, dark spice, black pepper, velvety tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, burgers, BBQ, lamb chops, pasta with meat sauce, aged cheddar

California’s most reliable everyday Cabernet — Joel Gott 815 is the bottle you reach for when you want something great without thinking twice.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling — 94 Points | A discreet and savory nose of blackcurrants, tobacco leaves, coffee beans, and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with silky tannins, bright acidity, and notes of dark cherries, olives, and beets. A well-balanced wine that will age gracefully. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points | The expressive nose gives aromas of black currant, plum, and tobacco with just a whisper of capsicum. The palate displays vibrant cranberry, black cherry, cigar, and black pepper flavors in a medium-bodied frame.

Winemaker Notes

Rich notes of ripe black cherry, currant, and boysenberry mingle gracefully with delicate cedar. On the palate, a harmonious balance unfolds with flavors of blueberry, cranberry, and clove, all embraced by smooth tannins from French oak barrels. The dark fruit flavors and subtle acidity leave a lasting impression. Decant 60 minutes before serving or cellar through 2040.

The elegance, acidity, and spice notes complement grilled or roasted dishes — beef bourguignon, duck confit, roasted chicken — as well as vegetarian preparations like mushroom risotto and roasted vegetables.

• Producer: Jordan Winery
• Appellation: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec
• Aging: French oak barrels
• Vintage: 2020
• Drink: Now through 2040
• Format: 750ml

Jordan Winery | Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California | Chardonnay | 2023

Russian River Valley's cool, fog-driven climate is tailor-made for Chardonnay, and Jordan has long been one of its most elegant interpreters. A cool, steady 2023 growing season allowed for extended hang time, producing a wine of exceptional finesse and complexity — bright acidity, layered citrus and stone fruit, and a restrained touch of French oak that enhances without dominating. Versatile enough for the aperitif glass, refined enough for the table.

Oak: Hint of French oak
Drink: Now–2029

Tasting Notes

• White peach, Meyer lemon, lime zest, and delicate floral blossom on the nose
• Zesty lime, orange peel, crisp Bosc pear, and elderflower on the palate
• Focused, textural mouthfeel | Crystal-clean mineral finish | Refreshing acidity

Critical Acclaim

• 94 pts — The Somm Journal (July 2025), Best Aromatic Whites: "Intense up-front flavors with white-peppered lemon drop, sleek and lively. Crisp acidity brightens notes of elderflower, McIntosh apple, and hazelnut. The mineral tone is crystal clean and clear on the finish."
• 93 pts — James Suckling: "Aromas of flint, wet stones, Meyer lemons and lime zest with subtle white flowers. Focused and textural, with loads of minerals and citrus oil in the finish."

Pairings: Raw bar, oysters, grilled salmon, ahi tuna, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, light salads

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 96 Points | The density and balance are so attractive here, with sliced apples, white pineapple and crushed stones. Hints of dried flowers, too, such as white roses and lilacs, as well as almonds. Medium-bodied with focus and subtle strength. Seemingly endless, with a bitter-lemon edge and nice reduction in the aftertaste of gun metal. Drink and enjoy.

Decanter 94 Points | Drouhin's Clos des Mouches 2023 exemplifies the vintage's potential for delicious whites. The wine has lush, forward aromas of Mirabelle plums and quince with hints of marzipan, butter and a suggestion of stylishly smoky reduction. The texture is supple and dense, but the richness is kept in balance and the extract carries the wine to a lingering finish. Parts of the 7ha vineyard have been replanted; the old vines that produce this bottling have delivered a wine of great character.

The Wine Advocate 93-94 Points | The 2023 Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Mouches Blanc (Domaine) is another strong performance, delivering aromas of sweet pear, peach and mandarin mingled with buttered toast and mint. Full-bodied, rich and ample, it's layered and unctuous, with a seamless, satiny, textural profile and a long, lusty finish.

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Stylish and graceful, this white evokes lemon, apple, white flower and honey aromas and flavors. Almost seamless in its texture and balance, with finely meshed acidity providing lift and freshness. Excellent length.

Winemaker Notes

An outstanding wine. Pale yellow color. Complex floral nose of white lilac and white rose. Once open, fruity aromas come to the fore, evolving towards grilled hazelnut and almond. When the wine is more mature, the nose is surprisingly strong and fifteen minutes of aeration produce wonderful notes of white truffle, citron (cedrat), honey and nutmeg, elegantly meshed together. Very lively on the palate. Its rich texture is in evidence, but also its structure and minerality. It is round, but never heavy. Harmonious fullness in the aftertaste. This wine allies remarkably the complexity and elegance of a Bâtard-Montrachet with the power of a Corton-Charlemagne.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 98 Points | The iodine, blackberry and rose-stem character comes through clearly. Plenty of fruit and depth. Medium-bodied with fine tannins that caress the palate and provide endless flavors of Indian spices, flint, nutmeg and light crust. Such refinement and integrity. Drinkable now, but better in three or four years.

The Wine Advocate 93 Points | The 2023 Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Mouches (Domaine) is showing nicely, bursting with aromas of sweet berries, spices, orange zest and new oak. Medium to full-bodied, succulent and lively, with chalky grip on the finish, it will offer a broad drinking window.

Decanter 93 Points | Lovely cherry fruit with hints of lavender and rosemary. The texture is silky and dense, almost fat. There is more clay here, and less limestone than in Les Cras, and the tannic structure is not as firm. The grapes are from Drouhin's massive 6.75ha here, not far from Pommard; they are partially destemmed and fermented on native yeasts before ageing in cask (25% new) for 14–18 months.