90+ Points | Critical Acclaim | Wine & Sparkling Wine

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.

From one of the pioneering wineries of the Russian River Valley, Davis Bynum River West Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 captures the richness and elegance that have made this region one of California's premier homes for Chardonnay. Sourced from the acclaimed River West Vineyard, this beautifully balanced wine combines vibrant fruit, refreshing acidity, and refined texture. 

The nose opens with expressive aromas of Gala apple, ripe nectarine, lemon peel, and toasted hazelnut, accented by delicate hints of citrus blossom and vanilla. On the palate, layers of orchard fruit and bright citrus unfold across a rich, textured mouthfeel. Fresh acidity provides lift and energy, while subtle oak influence adds complexity without overwhelming the wine's natural fruit character. The finish is long and polished, with lingering notes of salted lemon, pineapple, and baking spice.

A versatile and food-friendly Chardonnay, this Russian River Valley bottling pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled salmon, lobster, crab cakes, creamy pasta dishes, and aged cheeses.

Wine Enthusiast – 92 Points
"Aromas of Gala apple, nectarine, toasted hazelnut and lemon peel drive the nose of this acid-forward Chardonnay. The palate gives rich, pithy texture and sunny flavors of tart pineapple and citrus blossom, with salty lemon lingering on the finish." — Tom R. Capo

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: Gala apple, nectarine, lemon peel, toasted hazelnut
• Palate: Tart pineapple, citrus blossom, orchard fruit, subtle vanilla
• Body: Medium to full-bodied
• Style: Rich, vibrant, and beautifully balanced
• Finish: Long, fresh, and mineral-driven with lingering citrus notes

An elegant Russian River Valley Chardonnay that delivers both richness and precision, showcasing the distinctive character of one of California's most celebrated wine regions.

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.

Mauro Molino Barbaresco Giacosa — Piedmont 2023

Mauro Molino is best known for his celebrated Barolo wines from La Morra, but his Barbaresco Giacosa is a compelling reminder that his talent extends across the Langhe. Sourced from an east-facing site in Treiso — one of Barbaresco’s most prized communes — and produced in very small quantities, this is a wine of precision, elegance, and genuine cellar ambition.

The 2023 pours a bright, transparent ruby. The nose is classically Nebbiolo: fresh raspberries, dusty earth, flowers, and anise. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a cooling, tense feel, refreshing acidity, and well-defined structure. Aged in a 3,000-liter barrel and one tonneau, the oak is perfectly integrated — supporting rather than obscuring the wine’s natural finesse. Built to drink from 2026 and evolve gracefully through 2040.

“Cooling feel with refreshing tension and well-defined structure.” — Jeb Dunnuck, 94 Points

• Producer: Mauro Molino, La Morra, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG
• Vineyard: Giacosa, Treiso — east-facing
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Aging: 3,000-liter barrel and one tonneau
• Production: Very small quantities
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh raspberry, dusty earth, flowers, anise, cooling tension, structured finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2026–2040
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, braised veal, truffle pasta, aged Parmigiano, wild mushroom risotto

A 94-point Barbaresco from one of Piedmont’s most trusted names — Giacosa is a rare find built for the long haul.

Sea Smoke Cellars Pinot Noir TEN | Santa Rita Hills | 2023 | 750ml | Santa Barbara County, California, USA

Rated 97 Points – Wine Enthusiast (Matt Kettmann)

A brooding and intense Pinot Noir from Sea Smoke's estate vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills. TEN is named for the ten Pinot Noir clones planted on the property, delivering extraordinary complexity and ageability from one of California's most celebrated cool-climate appellations.

• Winery: Sea Smoke Cellars
• Origin: Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2023
• Source: Estate Vineyard
• Drink: Now – 2040

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Blueberry, cassis, lavender, exotic spices, hazelnut, thyme, and licorice
• Palate: Firm, mature tannins with cherry compote, citrus rind, strawberry cream, and raspberry
• Finish: Long, velvety finish with lingering violet and cranberry

Critical Acclaim

• 🏆 Wine Enthusiast – 97 Points (Matt Kettmann): "Expert levels of integration... subtle yet persistent aromas of raspberry, cranberry, potpourri and light sagebrush. The palate's firm texture elevates the cherry compote, citrus rind and strawberry cream flavors, with a lingering sense of violet painting the corners. This will be exciting to watch for years. Drink now–2040."

Winemaker Description

Since its 175th anniversary, Pol Roger has decided to offer a very limited range of older vintages from its iconic cuvées. After the original disgorgement, these bottles were then returned to the famously deep and cool Pol Roger cellars for additional extended maturation where they have rested undisturbed until their release.

Blanc de Blancs 2002 is a champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay selected from the finest Crus of the Côte des Blancs: Oiry, Chouilly, Cramant, Avize and Oger. Produced in limited quantities, this cuvée has matured for 10 years prior to disgorgement.

This is a thoroughbred, elegant sparkler. With its delicate acidity, apple and grapefruit flavors, and tense, steely texture, it is an extremely well-balanced wine. Although it is ready to drink now, it could certainly age in bottle for many years.

Wine Enthusiast 95 Points | This is a thoroughbred, elegant sparkler. With its delicate acidity, apple and grapefruit flavors, and tense, steely texture, it is an extremely well-balanced wine. Although it is ready to drink now, it could certainly age in bottle for many years.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Firm, with a toasty base mixing with flavors of quince paste, pastry, dried apricot, raw almond and a hint of lemon curd. There's a clean-cut note of minerally salinity throughout, accompanied by a fine bead and a lingering finish. Drink now through 2022. 100 cases imported.

Bottle Size: 750ml | Region: Champagne, France

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.

Le Marquis de Calon Segur Saint-Estephe 2023 750ml

Explore Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur: a premium Saint-Estèphe wine. This distinguished second wine from Château Calon-Ségur has earned 94 points from James Suckling, 93 points from Wine Advocate, 91 points from Vinous Media, and 91 points from Decanter. The 2023 vintage is a blend of 50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. The Marquis of Calon-Ségur reflects the unique terroir of the Saint-Estèphe region, known for its exceptional soil and climate that nurture high-quality grapes.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling - 94 Points

Graphite and dark fruit come through clearly on the nose and follow through to a medium body with dusty tannins and a juicy finish. Attractive and pure fruit with a hint of chocolate at the end. A solid second wine for Calon Segur. 50% merlot, 48% cabernet sauvignon, 1% petit verdot and 1% cabernet franc. Drink after 2027.

Wine Advocate - 93 Points (91-93)

The 2023 Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur is a blend of 50% Merlot and 48% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, incorporating the estate's finest Merlot plots that generally go into the grand vin but which didn't match with Calon's best Cabernet Sauvignon lots this year. Offering up aromas of cassis, plums, burning embers and spices, framed by a deft touch of new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and structured, with impressive density and muscle, built for the cellar.

Vinous Media - 91 Points

The 2023 Le Marquis de Calon Ségur has a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, clean and precise, classic in style with estuarine/briny scents in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins but there is still a firm backbone to this Deuxième Vin, and it gently fans out on the graphite-tinged finish. One of the best Le Marquis in recent years.

Decanter - 91 Points

Dark fragrance to the nose. A little tight but this also has an ease about it with density to the grippy tannins that have a fruity, fleshy aspect to them as well as a clear wet stone, slate minerality that lingers on the tongue. A little firm on the finish, but structured and polished still with a juicy mouthwatering red cherry centre. Will be nice to taste it calms. Not so long but there's nice character here nonetheless. 3.6pH. Ageing 17 months, 30% new. 1% Petit Verdot completes the blend.

Château Calon-Ségur - Legendary Estate

Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur is the second wine of Château Calon-Ségur, one of Bordeaux's most legendary estates. The estate has a rich history and produces wines of exceptional quality.

Second Wine - Solid Quality

A solid second wine for Calon Segur. Second wines offer excellent value while maintaining the estate's quality standards.

One of the Best Le Marquis in Recent Years

One of the best Le Marquis in recent years. The 2023 vintage represents exceptional quality for this second wine.

Saint-Estèphe - Bordeaux, France

From the Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux, France. Saint-Estèphe is known for producing powerful, structured wines with excellent aging potential.

Unique Terroir of Saint-Estèphe

The Marquis of Calon-Ségur reflects the unique terroir of the Saint-Estèphe region, known for its exceptional soil and climate that nurture high-quality grapes.

Gravelly Soils

This wine is crafted from a blend of carefully selected varietals, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives in the area's gravelly soils. The terroir imparts distinctive character.

2023 Vintage

The 2023 vintage showcases exceptional quality. This year produced wines of remarkable concentration and balance.

Blend: 50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

50% merlot, 48% cabernet sauvignon, 1% petit verdot and 1% cabernet franc. This blend is Merlot-dominant, unusual for Saint-Estèphe.

Finest Merlot Plots

Incorporating the estate's finest Merlot plots that generally go into the grand vin but which didn't match with Calon's best Cabernet Sauvignon lots this year. This makes the 2023 Le Marquis particularly special.

Ageing 17 Months, 30% New Oak

Ageing 17 months, 30% new oak. The oak aging is carefully calibrated to complement the fruit without overwhelming it.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep ruby red
Aroma: Graphite and dark fruit. Aromas of cassis, plums, burning embers and spices. Mixture of red and black fruit. Dark fragrance. Bouquet of dark fruits like blackcurrant and plum, intertwined with subtle notes of cedar and spice
Palate: Medium body. Medium to full-bodied. Dusty tannins. Deep and structured. Impressive density and muscle. Pliant tannins with firm backbone. Grippy tannins with fruity, fleshy aspect. Rich blackberry, delicate chocolate, and hints of vanilla. Luxurious mouthfeel
Finish: Juicy finish. Graphite-tinged finish. Wet stone, slate minerality lingers. Juicy mouthwatering red cherry centre. Hint of chocolate at the end. Lingers long

Graphite & Dark Fruit

Graphite and dark fruit come through clearly on the nose and follow through to the palate. The graphite character is distinctive and adds complexity.

Aromas of Cassis, Plums, Burning Embers & Spices

Offering up aromas of cassis, plums, burning embers and spices. The aromatic complexity is exceptional.

Mixture of Red & Black Fruit

Has a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, clean and precise. The fruit expression is pure and well-defined.

Classic in Style

Classic in style with estuarine/briny scents in the background. The maritime influence is characteristic of Saint-Estèphe.

Dark Fragrance

Dark fragrance to the nose that is inviting and complex. The aromatic profile is rich and layered.

Deft Touch of New Oak

Framed by a deft touch of new oak that enhances without dominating. The oak integration is skillful.

Medium Body

Medium body provides elegance and drinkability. The palate is medium-bodied with excellent balance.

Medium to Full-Bodied

It's medium to full-bodied, offering substance and structure. The wine has presence and weight.

Dusty Tannins

With dusty tannins that provide structure. The tannin texture is fine and well-integrated.

Deep & Structured

Deep and structured, demonstrating serious winemaking. The wine has depth and complexity.

Impressive Density & Muscle

With impressive density and muscle, built for the cellar. The concentration is remarkable.

Pliant Tannins with Firm Backbone

With pliant tannins but there is still a firm backbone to this Deuxième Vin. The structure is excellent.

Grippy Tannins - Fruity & Fleshy

Density to the grippy tannins that have a fruity, fleshy aspect to them. The tannins are substantial yet approachable.

Wet Stone, Slate Minerality

As well as a clear wet stone, slate minerality that lingers on the tongue. The mineral character adds complexity and freshness.

Juicy Finish

And a juicy finish that is refreshing and satisfying. The finish is mouthwatering and appealing.

Graphite-Tinged Finish

And it gently fans out on the graphite-tinged finish. The mineral character persists through the finish.

Juicy Mouthwatering Red Cherry Centre

But structured and polished still with a juicy mouthwatering red cherry centre. The fruit core is vibrant and pure.

Attractive & Pure Fruit

Attractive and pure fruit showcasing quality fruit selection. The fruit character is clean and expressive.

Hint of Chocolate at the End

With a hint of chocolate at the end adding richness. This subtle note adds sophistication.

Robust Structure & Depth

The distinct characteristics of Saint-Estèphe impart a robust structure and depth to the wine. Each sip reveals the essence of the land.

Vibrant & Complex

Offering a taste that is both vibrant and complex, making it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Built for the Cellar

Built for the cellar with excellent aging potential. Drink after 2027 for optimal enjoyment.

Drink After 2027

Drink after 2027 to allow the wine to develop fully. The wine will reward patience.

Harmonious Blend

This harmonious blend creates a luxurious mouthfeel that lingers long after the last sip. Showcasing the winemaker's expertise and commitment to excellence.

Transitions from Casual to Fine Dining

It's a wine that transitions beautifully from casual gatherings to fine dining experiences. The versatility is remarkable.

Versatile Food Pairing

Perfect with:

• Roasted meats (lamb and beef)
• Rich, creamy cheeses
• Chocolate desserts
• Classic French coq au vin
• Hearty beef stew
• Grilled steaks

Complements Savory Roasted Meats

Its bold profile complements a variety of culinary delights, from savory roasted meats like lamb and beef. The wine stands up beautifully to rich foods.

Perfect with Rich, Creamy Cheeses

To rich, creamy cheeses and decadent chocolate desserts. The pairing possibilities are extensive.

Elevates Flavors of the Meal

Consider pairing it with a classic French coq au vin or a hearty beef stew, allowing the wine's rich character to elevate the flavors of the meal.

Enhances Every Culinary Experience

Whether at a dinner party or a special occasion, this exquisite wine enhances every culinary experience. Le Marquis de Calon-Ségur is not just a wine; it's an experience.

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.

96 James Suckling:  Though slightly restrained at this young age, this is an outstanding wine with the structure and depth of flavor typical of this estate-grown bottling. Blackberries, dried blueberries, creme de cassis, cedar and cinnamon are layered on the palate. Tannins are fine-grained, velvety and well integrated. Drinkable now but best from 2029.

95 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V. kicks off with masses of black cherries and cassis, plus hints of dark chocolate. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety in feel, perhaps even a touch open-knit in character, but it shows great length and freshness on the lingering finish.

94 Jeb Dunnuck: Rocking levels of crème de cassis, redcurrants, spicy wood, dried flowers, and sweet tobacco all emerge from the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V., a medium to full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that has a pure, layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. Aged 20 months in 100% new French oak, it's another remarkably fresh 2022 from this estate that has tons to love.

Winemaker Notes

Experience the Naughty Charm of Birichino Zinfandel

Discover Birichino Zinfandel Old Vines from the historic Gimelli Vineyard, a remarkable expression of California Zinfandel crafted from ancient vines. Birichino is renowned for producing distinctive, terroir-driven wines that showcase the unique character of California's heritage vineyards. This 2023 vintage captures the essence of old vine Zinfandel, offering wine enthusiasts a taste of California winemaking tradition combined with modern artisanal craftsmanship.

Expert Reviewed - Vintage 2023 

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | This is a big fruit bomb of a Zinfandel from very old vines, offering intense strawberry-boysenberry syrup aromas alongside a touch of red flowers. The palate balances the boisterous red fruit flavors with a fresh acidity, a crushed rock minerality and a dusting of fennel pollen. Altogether, it uses old vines to showcase young flavors. 

Old Vine Heritage

The Gimelli Vineyard is home to old Zinfandel vines that have been producing exceptional fruit for decades. Old vines, typically 50+ years old, naturally produce lower yields of more concentrated, intensely flavored grapes. These ancient vines have deep root systems that access unique soil minerals and water sources, resulting in wines with greater complexity, depth, and character. The old vine designation represents a commitment to preserving California's viticultural heritage.

Gimelli Vineyard Terroir

The Gimelli Vineyard is a historic California vineyard known for producing exceptional Zinfandel. The unique terroir, including soil composition, microclimate, and vine age, contributes to the distinctive character of this wine. Single-vineyard wines like this offer a pure expression of place, showcasing the specific characteristics that make each vineyard unique.

Birichino Winemaking Philosophy

Birichino (Italian for "rascal" or "scamp") is dedicated to producing wines that are both playful and serious, combining traditional winemaking techniques with a modern sensibility. The winery focuses on working with heritage vineyards and lesser-known grape varieties, creating wines with personality, balance, and food-friendliness. Birichino's approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard's character to shine through.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep ruby to garnet color with vibrant clarity
Aroma: Ripe blackberry, raspberry, black cherry, dried herbs, black pepper, subtle spice, and hints of bramble
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with concentrated dark fruit flavors. Layers of blackberry, plum, and cherry complemented by notes of vanilla, baking spices, and earthy undertones. Balanced acidity with well-integrated tannins
Finish: Long, persistent finish with lingering fruit and spice notes

2023 Vintage Character

The 2023 vintage showcases the exceptional quality of the growing season, offering wine enthusiasts a fresh expression of old vine Zinfandel. This vintage captures the balance between ripe fruit character and the structure that defines great California Zinfandel.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This versatile Zinfandel pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled and barbecued meats (ribs, brisket, burgers)
• Italian cuisine (pasta with meat sauce, pizza, lasagna)
• Roasted lamb and game meats
• Spicy dishes (Mexican, Cajun, Indian)
• Aged cheddar and hard cheeses
• Charcuterie boards
• Hearty stews and braised dishes
• Smoked meats and sausages

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly below room temperature at 60-65°F (15-18°C) to appreciate the wine's complexity and balance. Decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving will allow the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic potential. Use large Bordeaux-style glasses to enhance the tasting experience.

Perfect for Wine Enthusiasts

Birichino Zinfandel Old Vines Gimelli Vineyard is ideal for:

• Zinfandel lovers seeking authentic old vine character
• Wine enthusiasts exploring California heritage vineyards
• Dinner parties and casual gatherings
• Barbecues and outdoor entertaining
• Collectors of artisanal California wines
• Gift giving for wine aficionados

California Zinfandel Tradition

Zinfandel is California's heritage grape variety, with a winemaking tradition dating back to the Gold Rush era. Old vine Zinfandel represents the pinnacle of this tradition, offering wines with depth, complexity, and authentic California character. Birichino's commitment to working with historic vineyards like Gimelli ensures that this winemaking heritage continues for future generations.

Artisanal Craftsmanship

This wine represents the intersection of California's viticultural heritage and modern artisanal winemaking. From the ancient vines of Gimelli Vineyard to Birichino's careful, minimal-intervention approach, every aspect of this wine reflects a dedication to quality, authenticity, and terroir expression. The result is a Zinfandel with personality, balance, and the distinctive character that makes California wine special.

A Historical Vineyard

The Birichino Zinfandel Old Vines Gimelli Vineyard 2023 is sourced from a vineyard with rich history. Known for its well-maintained old vines, Gimelli has been producing top-quality grapes for years. These ancient vines not only add complexity to the wine but also contribute to its unique character. The vines thrive in a diverse ecosystem that allows the grapes to soak up various minerals from the soil, resulting in a rich flavor profile that wine enthusiasts find irresistible. When you indulge in this Zinfandel, you are tasting a piece of history that has been cherished over multiple generations.

Tasting Notes

This vintage of Birichino Zinfandel is truly a reflection of its terroir, embodying a delightful blend of flavors that make it a compelling choice for any occasion. The primary keyword, naughty, aptly describes its bold and vibrant fruit-forward persona. Expect to experience layers of ripe raspberry, cherry, and hints of spice on the palate. The balance of acidity and tannins gives it a smooth finish, making it enjoyable whether you are sipping it alone or pairing it with a nice meal. It's the kind of wine that brings a touch of playful indulgence to your evening.

Pairing the Birichino Zinfandel Old Vines with the right dishes can elevate your dining experience. Given its fruity profile and light spiciness, it's great with grilled meats, particularly barbecue ribs or burgers. The wine also complements spicy dishes, like Mexican or Caribbean cuisine. For a delightful contrast, consider pairing it with dark chocolate desserts that will enhance the naughty flavors in the Zinfandel. This versatility allows you to enjoy it in numerous settings, from casual gatherings to sophisticated dinners.

Le C de Calon Ségur | Saint-Estèphe AOC | Bordeaux, France | 2022

Le C de Calon Ségur — formerly known as Le Marquis de Calon Ségur — is the second wine of Château Calon Ségur, one of Saint-Estèphe's most distinguished and storied estates. Classified as a Grand Cru Classé, Château Calon Ségur has been producing wines of exceptional quality on the Left Bank of Bordeaux for centuries, and Le C offers a different, more immediately approachable interpretation of the same celebrated Calon terroir.

Saint-Estèphe is the northernmost of the Haut-Médoc's great communes, known for producing Bordeaux's most structured and age-worthy reds. Its heavy clay soils retain moisture and moderate the growing season, giving Saint-Estèphe wines their characteristic depth, firm tannins, and remarkable longevity. The 2022 vintage is widely regarded as one of the finest in recent Bordeaux history — a warm, dry year that produced wines of exceptional concentration, balance, and aging potential.

Le C de Calon Ségur 2022 is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, aged approximately 17 months in oak barrels (30% new). Deep ruby-purple in the glass. The nose offers plum, blackcurrant, damson, dark cherry, and cocoa, with notes of garrigue, damp earth, and subtle spice. On the palate, medium to full-bodied with firm, well-integrated tannins, generous dark fruit, bright acidity, and a long, structured, savory finish. Deliciously expressive now, with excellent aging potential.

Pair with roast lamb, braised beef, duck confit, aged cheeses, and hearty Bordeaux-style dishes.

• Producer: Château Calon Ségur (Second Wine)
• Appellation: Saint-Estèphe AOC, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2022
• Aging: ~17 months in oak (30% new)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Virtual Pre-Sell. Ships in 3-5 Business Days.

98 Points  James Suckling

Winemaker Notes

Discover Walt La Brisa Pinot Noir

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | Redolent of cinnamon, Bing cherry and sarsaparilla on the nose, this Pinot gains depth, purity and focus as it hits the palate. Flavors of dried raspberries, fried shiitake mushrooms, fresh mint and pithy tangerine peel along a seamless and vibrant finish.

Winemaker Description 

This blend is comprised of primarily Bob's Ranch, with Gap's Crown and select grower partners throughout Sonoma rounding out the blend.

The wine has a true Sonoma Coast character—deep, earthy aromatics; concentration and depth on the palate; with bright fruit and supple tannin on the finish. 

We utilized whole cluster in this vintage to help accentuate the unique character of each site, and we are very pleased with the resulting wine.

Memo Summary Notes

A Unique Expression of Pinot Noir

Walt La Brisa Pinot Noir showcases the true essence of Sonoma Coast, offering a unique expression of this beloved grape. When you open a bottle, you'll immediately notice the vibrant ruby color, hinting at the rich flavors inside. This wine is crafted with love and precision, representing the delicate balance between fruitiness and acidity. The primary flavors include cherries, raspberries, and subtle hints of vanilla and spice, making it a delightful choice for both casual sipping and special occasions.

A Perfect Pairing for Every Meal

This Pinot Noir is incredibly versatile, which means it pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you are enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a party, Walt La Brisa complements everything from grilled salmon to roasted chicken. It enhances the flavors of hearty meals but is equally delightful with lighter fare, such as salads and pasta. Furthermore, its smooth tannins and balanced acidity make it approachable for all wine lovers, no matter their experience level.

Quality You Can Trust

When you choose Walt La Brisa Pinot Noir, you are investing in quality and craftsmanship. The grapes are sourced from sustainably farmed vineyards in Sonoma Coast, where the unique terroir imparts distinctive characteristics to the wine. Each bottle reflects the commitment to excellence that Walt Wines is known for, ensuring a premium experience. Additionally, the 2023 vintage has received recognition from various wine critics, certifying its quality and appeal.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Vinous 90 Points | The 2020 Citran is fortunately showing less reduction on the nose than it did from barrel, revealing blackberry and briary scents, touches of graphite and pressed iris flower. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins. Moderate depth, filling out nicely towards the finish. This is a fresh and tensile Citran that should age well over the next 15-20 years.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Red and black fruits, spice, saddle leather, and tobacco leaf notes all emerge from the 2020 Château Citran, a rock-solid, medium-bodied, balanced Haut-Médoc. It has the pure, focused, nicely structured style of the vintage and is going to evolve for 15 years or more.

James Suckling 89+ Points | A firm, racy wine with crushed-berry, walnut and spice character. Medium body and firm finish. A little austere now.

Memo Summary Notes

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc

The 2020 Château Citran is a "rock-solid" representative of the Haut-Médoc, benefiting significantly from what many critics consider a legendary Bordeaux vintage. Historically one of the oldest estates in the Médoc, Citran is known for delivering classic, structured Left Bank profiles without the "Grand Cru" price tag.

Château Citran is currently owned by the Merlaut family (who also own the famed Chasse-Spleen). Their expertise in the Haut-Médoc shows through in the 2020—it offers the "saddle leather" and "cedar wood" complexity usually reserved for much more expensive bottles from nearby Margaux.

Pairing: This is a classic "meat and potatoes" wine. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled steak, lamb chops, or a hearty mushroom stew.

Critical Acclaim

• Wine Spectator – 94 Points | “A sleek, smoky, sultry red, with violet high tones gilding a dense, ripe palate of wild berries alongside a woodsy character. Polished tannins give this a solid frame.” Best from 2026–2035.
• Wine Advocate – 94 Points | “A pure, elegant bouquet of flowers, dark berries, and spices with licorice notes. Medium to full-bodied, layered, and refined with velvety tannins, bright acids, and a long, ethereal finish.”
• Jeb Dunnuck – 93+ Points | “Blackberries, cassis, leather, and graphite define this perfumed, complex Hermitage. Medium to full-bodied with tons of sweet fruit, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Give it a few years.”
• James Suckling – 93 Points | “Complex roasted nose with deep red fruit aromas. Fleshy and elegant with restrained tannins. Polished, accessible, yet structured with a stony finish. Drinkable now, best from 2025.”

Tasting Notes

A polished, energy-filled Hermitage with intense aromas of blackberries, cassis, leather, violet, graphite, and roasted spices, accented by licorice and mineral notes. The palate is dense yet lively, with velvety tannins, bright acidity, and a long, ethereal finish. Subtle smoky, woodsy undertones and structured stony notes give it remarkable precision and serious aging potential.

About the Wine

Domaine des Tourettes is the flagship Hermitage of Delas Frères, one of the Northern Rhône’s most respected négociant-éleveurs. The 2022 is sourced from two prized sectors of the legendary Hermitage hill: Les Bessards (7 hectares of granite-rich soils) and Les Grandes Vignes (2 hectares of the highest vines on the hill). Fermented with 80% whole clusters for Les Grandes Vignes, then matured for 15 months in Burgundian oak barrels (25% new). The result is a Hermitage of remarkable elegance, structure, and complexity — approachable now with decanting, but built to shine over the next decade and beyond.

Cellaring

Approachable now with 1 hour decanting; best from 2026 through 2035+.

Food Pairing

Outstanding with roasted lamb, venison, beef short rib, truffle dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

Product Details

• Appellation: Hermitage AOC, Northern Rhône, France
• Varietal: Syrah 100%
• Vineyards: Les Bessards & Les Grandes Vignes
• Aging: 15 months, Burgundian oak (25% new)
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Delas Frères

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018

Tim Atkin 98 Points | The maiden 2016 vintage has only just been released through the Place de Bordeaux, so it may be a little premature to review this 2018, but make sure you remind yourself to buy a case in two years' time. Produced without Cabernet Sauvignon for the first time, it's the polar opposite of the big, ripe, overwooded styles of Ribera. Nuanced, refined and hauntingly balanced, with perfumed oak, lovely texture and balance, leafy, graphite-like complexity and the length of a world-class wine. 2023-35.

Jane Anson 95 Points | Muscular, slate hewn tannins, this has a rugged quality where nothing is overpowered by oak and yet it hugs the palate, making its presence felt. Serious tannic architecture that softens through the mid palate to show creamy raspberry and red cherry fruits, spiced aniseed, fennel and liqourice root, sinewy tannins, totally moreish. Aged in 25% new oak, 10% amphora, and the rest in neutral barrels. Jean-Claude and Jeff Berrouet consultants, with winemaker Montxo Martinez and owners Marcos and Carlos Yllera. Old vine Tempranillo, including some dating right back to pre-Phylloxera, sat at between 750m and 1000m altitude, from a selection of their own vines, and those of local growers.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2018 Bodega Vivaltus "Vivaltus" is a prestigious, "new wave" Ribera del Duero that has rapidly gained cult status. It is the flagship wine of a project by the Yllera family, who famously enlisted Jean-Claude Berrouet—the legendary former winemaker of Château Pétrus—to help create a wine of "Bordeaux-like" elegance rather than the heavy, over-extracted style common in the region.

Expert Reviews - 2016

The Wine Enthusiast 97 Points | This golden-colored Tokaji has aromas of raw honey, apricot blossom, pear and baked apple tart. Silky smooth upon entry, it offers flavors of baked apples, wildflower honey, canned pears and apricot. The acidity is nicely balanced so as not to be too cloyingly sweet.

The Wine Spectator 96 Points | Well-spiced and minerally on the nose, showing hints of petrol and slate, with a brilliant backbone of acidity creating a mouthwatering frame for the silky flavors of apricot pâte de fruit, clover honey, passion fruit coulis and lanolin that expand on the palate. This is an explosion of flavor and texture, yet remains light on its feet and graceful throughout. A beauty.

James Suckling 94 Points | Perfumed and complex nose of dried apricot, white nectarine, white truffle, bergamot, white pepper and jasmine. Dense and sweet, yet balanced. Focused and layered. Spicy character on the finish.

Memo Summary Notes

The Disznókő Tokaji Aszú 6 Puttonyos 2016 is a benchmark sweet wine from Hungary, representing the highest standard classification (6 Puttonyos) for traditional Aszú. In the 2016 vintage, this wine is celebrated for its "laser-like" acidity, which perfectly balances its massive sugar content, preventing it from feeling cloying.

Expert Reviews - Base 2021

The Wine Advocate 95 Points | Emmanuel Brochet’s NV Le Mont Benoit (2021 base), which includes 40% reserve wines from 2020 and 2019, was disgorged in May 2024 with a dosage of four grams per liter—slightly higher than usual. He notes that this modest adjustment was necessitated by the incisive profile of the base vintage. The wine unfurls from the glass with aromas of green apple, chamomile and peeled almond. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied, chiseled, bright and laden with electric acidity, culminating in a long, chalky finish marked by a distinctive bitterness. Stylistically, this bottling slightly diverges from recent iterations shaped by a string of warm vintages, but qualitatively speaking, it is unmistakably the same superb cuvée. While Brochet himself expresses a degree of dissatisfaction due to its higher malic acid, such critique speaks to the standards of a perfectionist. This rendition, in all likelihood, will age beautifully over the coming years.  

Memo Summary Notes

The Emmanuel Brochet Rosé de Saignée Extra Brut "R21" is a highly sought-after, "unicorn" grower Champagne. It is crafted by Emmanuel Brochet, a cult producer based in Villers-aux-Nœuds on the Montagne de Reims, known for his tiny production and extremely meticulous organic farming.

The "R21" notation indicates that the base year for this non-vintage release is the 2021 harvest.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021

The Wine Enthusiast 91 Points |  This wine is concentrated, with aromas of blueberry, olallieberry, clove, violet and notes of dried vanilla bean on the nose. The flavors on the palate are boysenberry, black currant confiture, paprika and orange cream, with dry, grippy tannins to finish.

Memo Summary Notes

Matchbook "The Arsonist" 2021 is a high-intensity, "left of center" series from the Giguiere family in the Dunnigan Hills of Yolo County, California. While the series includes a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Red Blend is the most widely acclaimed release this year, having earned high marks for its bold, concentrated style.

52% Petit Verdot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Malbec.

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

The Wine Enthusiast by Joe Czerwinski writes 92 Points | Dark amber in color, this example of classic Muscat is wonderfully balanced between the freshness of youth and the power and complexity of age. Raisin, malt and Guinness stout-like notes meet vibrant orange-zest and honey characters in a sweet, harmonious whole

Producer Description

Complex & layered

Average age 12 years

We affectionately call this the ‘Goldilocks’ tier—it’s just right! Our Classic Muscat is a perfect blend of fresh and older Muscat parcels, this wine offers the best of both worlds. It showcases vibrant, fresh fruit flavours alongside the deeper, richer complexity that comes with extended time in oak.

With notes of Turkish Delight, raisins, walnuts, and dense fruit cake, this tier has a much greater richness and complexity than the Rutherglen tier, hinting at the mature wood-aged characters that will continue to develop as it ages. It’s the ideal middle ground for those who want a balance of youthful fruit and the beginnings of that beautiful, layered depth Muscat is known for.

Stanton & Killeen acknowledges and deeply respects the Bangerang people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and gather. We honour their Elders—past, present, and emerging—and celebrate the continuation of their cultural, spiritual, and educational practices that have shaped this place for generations.
We are committed to learning, listening, and fostering a future that respects and uplifts all voices.

Memo Pairing Suggestions

The "Classic" Pairings:
    •    Desserts: Sticky date pudding, dark chocolate tart, or pecan pie.
    •    Savory: Strong blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Roquefort (the salt/sugar contrast is legendary).
    •    Affogato: Pour it directly over high-quality vanilla bean gelato.

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.

Tenuta di Ceppaiano Toscana — Keith Haring Edition, Tuscany 2017

In 1989, Keith Haring traveled to Pisa to paint his iconic "Tuttomondo" mural — a monumental work that would become one of his last. During that visit, he gifted original artwork to the Castellani family of Tenuta di Ceppaiano, and that artwork now lives on the label of this wine. It is a collector's bottle in the truest sense: a 92-point Tuscan red wrapped in a piece of art history. The wine itself is a Sangiovese-led blend from the Toscana IGT, vinified to express the richness and depth of a warm, generous vintage. James Suckling awarded it 92 points.

The nose is complex and captivating: plums, blackcurrants, dark chocolate, tobacco, balsamic, and cigar box, layered with wild rose, dark cherry, cassis, mint, licorice, roasted coffee, and leather. On the palate, it is medium-to-full-bodied with a creamy, velvety texture, fine round tannins, flavors of black fruit, vanilla, cedar, and a hint of white chocolate, leading to a long, persistent finish of sweet spice and cedar. It is drinking beautifully now and will continue to evolve for years to come.

James Suckling 92 — "Aromas of plums, blackcurrants, dark chocolate, tobacco, balsamic and cigar box. Medium-to full-bodied with fine, round tannins. Creamy, velvety texture. Sweet spices on the flavorful finish. Drink or hold." (Vintage 2017). 

• Producer: Tenuta di Ceppaiano / Castellani Family, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2017
• Appellation: Toscana IGT
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Varietal: Sangiovese-led blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot)
• Label Art: Original artwork gifted by Keith Haring to the Castellani family, 1989
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Plum, blackcurrant, dark chocolate, tobacco, wild rose, cassis, vanilla, cedar, sweet spice
• Best Paired With: Pasta with rich meat sauces, spicy Mediterranean dishes, rotisserie chicken with rosemary, aged pecorino

A 92-point Tuscan red with a one-of-a-kind story — Tenuta di Ceppaiano's Keith Haring edition is as compelling on the wall as it is in the glass.

Expert Review -  Vintage 2020

The Wine Enthusiast by Roger Voss writes 92 Points | From a specific parcel in the Haut Selve estate, the wine is rich and dense. Its black chocolate aroma gives a hint of the wine's ripeness. On the palate, this is a a powerful, smoothly textured wine, packed with black fruits and tannins. It is worth aging further, to be drunk from 2026.

Winemaker Description 

– Density: 2250 vines/acre
– Pruning: double guyot
– Sun exposed leaf area up to 3.2 acres
– Organic manure (faba beans and oats) and then scraping of the soils
– Limited yield to 38 hl/ha
– Sustainable agriculture

Vinification

– Prefermented cold maceration of 4 days, to extract aromas
– Alcoholic fermentation controlled between 26 and 28°C
– Total maceration between 3 and 4 weeks
– Malolactic fermentation in oak barrels
–  Ageing: 12 months in French oak barrels
– 1/3 of new barrels (Nadalié, Vicard, Sylvain, Mercier, Seguin Moreau, Marques, Garonnaise)

Tasting notes and Pairing | With beautiful cherry tints and orange reflects, this wine offers an intense nose of jammed morello cherry with elegant woody notes. Supple and structured, the palate is well balanced by ripped tannins.

Memo Summary Notes

Tasting Notes

    •    Appearance: Dark garnet red.

    •    Nose: Complex aromas of red and black fruits, spicy and mentholated notes, and subtle empyreumatic (smoky/toasted) woodiness.

    •    Palate: Velvety and dense with fresh fruit flavors; floral notes and violet appear on a long, structured finish with well-coated tannins.

    •    Drinking Window: Best enjoyed from 2024, reaching its peak between 2028 and 2030.

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.
 
 

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Antonio Galloni of Vinous writes 95 Points | The 2022 Echezeaux Grand Cru is absolutely exquisite, not to mention a significant step up in the range. Impossibly silky tannins and deep, penetrating aromatics give the Echezeaux its seductive personality. Medium in body and polished, with phenomenal balance, the Echezeaux shows how compelling the vintage is. There is no heaviness at all, nor any sign of a growing season marked by severe heat and drought.

Winemaker Description 

With a more textured and intense character than Échezeaux, Grands-Échezeaux presents a rich, almost rustic profile. The wine offers a concentrated palate of dark fruits, with gamey nuances and bramble hints, wrapped in a structured yet velvety texture. It's a wine of depth and character, often described as having a "monastic" quality. It is “Grands” before being Échézeaux. It is a country gentleman, aristocrat and dreamer. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Stuart Pigott of JamesSuckling.com 95 Points | This astonishing white Burgundy squares the circle of excellent ripeness and concentration with great freshness and vitality. Lovely aromas of bergamot and candied lime peel with a creaminess that’s deftly wrapped around the firm mineral core. Very long, focused and polished finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Unfiltered. Drink or hold. 

Bill Nanson of Burgundy Report | Also an airy, modestly floral super-attractive aromatic. Hmm, not a fat or generous wine but one with wonderful airy fruit quality. That’s a gorgeous wine – bravo. 

Memo Summary Notes

The Domaine Boris Champy "Presse Verticale 382" 2022 is a masterclass in high-altitude, biodynamic Burgundy. Boris Champy—former director of legendary estates like Louis Latour and Clos de Lambrays—acquired this estate in 2017 with a mission to prove that the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune is the future of the region due to its cooler climate.

The "382" in the name refers to the 382-meter elevation of the "Montagne de Cras" plot in Nantoux, while "Presse Verticale" highlights his use of a traditional vertical basket press for a gentler extraction.

Pair with

• Seafood: Pan-seared sea bass with fennel, smoked salmon, or lobster risotto.

• Poultry: Roasted farm chicken with tarragon or a classic Gratin Dauphinois.

• Cheese: Pairs beautifully with an 18-month aged Comté or a creamy Brillat-Savarin.

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 Reviews

~ Rosé made using the saignée method
~ Zero dosage
~ Natural
~ Very low sulphur content
~ Aromas of red fruits, mandarin orange and white pepper
~ Pinot Noir

Vinification of the Brut Nature Rosé cuvée

~ Rosé made using the saignée method with maceration in vats lasting 3 days
~ Only the juices from first pressing are used
~ Minimal use of sulphur
~ No filtering
~ Use of gravity to avoid oxidation
~ Then total and natural malolactic fermentation
~ Zero dosage
~ 100% of the wines are made in vats to preserve freshness
~ After bottling the cuvée is aged for 2 to 3 years sur lattes (on laths)

GRAPE VARIETY: 100% Pinot Noir

FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal as an aperitif. Goes perfectly with salmon carpaccio or scallops, sushi, grilled meats. Serve at: 45°F.

TASTING NOTES: On the nose, very evocative of strawberry and raspberry with a floral note of rose petals. The palate recalls red fruits and is augmented by hints of citrus fruit, mandarin orange and a small, very refined touch of white pepper.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Advocate 95 Points | The nose of a dry Port — all violets, ripe plums and aromatic herbs, with plenty of spices, toast and smoke from 20 months in French oak (20% new). Needs time to integrate the oak and polish the tannins.

James Suckling 95 Points | Abundant dark fruit with blueberries, delicate violets and graphite. Fleshy and medium- to full-bodied, perfectly balanced by refreshing acidity through a clean, bright finish. Supple tannins. An old field blend of more than 40 varieties. Drink now or hold.

Wine Spectator 94 Points | Bursting with brambly boysenberry and blueberry, fragrant mountain herbs, graphite and woodsy spices. Fresh and focused with concentration and length in a medium-bodied frame. Chalky, integrated tannins with a salty, iron-laced tang. Classy. Drink now through 2035.

About Wine & Soul

Wine & Soul is the joint project of husband and wife Jorge Serôdio Borges and Sandra Tavares da Silva, both qualified oenologists. They bought an old port warehouse in the Vale de Mendiz in the heart of the Pinhão valley in 2003. The estate is 6 hectares with 2.5 ha under vine, averaging over 70 years old and planted with 30+ different varieties. The project is named after their dog Pintas, a Pointer.

Winemaking

Harvested in the second week of September in perfect conditions. All grapes were hand-selected, destemmed, and foot-trodden in traditional stone lagares throughout the full 10-day fermentation. Aging and malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels for 20 months.

Varietals: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Tinta Barroca, Rufete

Tasting & Pairings

Violets, ripe plums, boysenberry, blueberry, graphite, dark chocolate, mountain herbs, and woodsy spice. Medium- to full-bodied with chalky tannins, bright acidity, and a salty, iron-laced finish. Decant generously or cellar through 2035.

• Braised beef cheeks or short ribs — the wine’s structure and dark fruit depth are built for slow-cooked meats.
• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary — the herbal and spice notes mirror the wine beautifully.
• Aged Manchego or Serra da Estrela cheese — Iberian cheeses that complement the Douro’s earthy complexity.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Vinous 94 Points | The 2022 Riesling Terrassen Smaragd is from 20- to 60-year-old vines planted on higher parcels at 250-350 meters. The nose has something of an eau de Cologne sense, with its conifer and citrus spice. The palate is super slender, very linear and uncompromisingly fresh, without a suspicion of fat or any opulence. This treads a thin line on perfect tiptoe. There is a weightless quality here. This is brimming with lemon and utterly fresh.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | With fullness to the lychee, green plum and quince flavors, this delicious, mouthcoating and salty white is laced with baking spice notes. Stays elegant and well-defined despite its plump profile, offering zesty clementine acidity, with dried sage and fresh-cut grass notes bringing a savory dimension. Drink now through 2032.

Winemaker Description 

Wachau Riesling is dry and often defined by high levels of dry extract (due to a lengthy ripening period) and a pleasing freshness (due to dramatic temperature swings between day and night). Soils of primary rock from various terraced sites give this dry Riesling subtle minerality accompanied by aromas and flavors of citrus and stone fruit.

Riesling’s high acidity makes it one of the most versatile wines at the table. Riesling can be used to cut the fattiness of foods such as pork or sausages and can tame a certain amount of saltiness. Conversely, it can highlight foods such as fish or vegetables in the same way a squeeze of lemon or a vinaigrette can.

Rudi Pichler is among the elite growers of the Wachau producing wines of precision, power, and longevity. Grüner Veltliner and Riesling make up 95% of the production with the remaining 5% shared between Weißburgunder and Roter Veltliner. Rudi Pichler belongs to the prestigious Vinea Wachau and vinifies under the strict parameters of their codex.

Yields are kept low between 30 and 35 hectoliters per hectare with botrytis carefully removed by hand.  Grapes are crushed by foot and receive between three and 36 hours of maceration on the skins. Vinification is entirely in stainless-steel tanks and malolactic fermentation is avoided.

Weingut Rudi Pichler consists of 37 acres spread between Wösendorf, Joching, and Weißenkirchen where south-facing terraces look down at the Danube River. Terrassen indicates it is a cuvée from multiple terraced sites. Smaragd is a term used by Vinea Wachau members indicating a dry wine with a minimum alcohol of 12.5%.