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Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc — Marlborough, New Zealand 2025

Kim Crawford is New Zealand's most recognized wine brand and one of the defining names in Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc — the style that put New Zealand on the world wine map. Founded in 1996, Kim Crawford pioneered the high-energy, intensely aromatic style of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc that has since become a global benchmark: vibrant, tropical, herbaceous, and irresistibly fresh. Sourced from select Marlborough vineyards and crafted sustainably, the 2025 vintage continues to deliver the intense, high-energy profile that made it a household name worldwide — one of the most consistent and recognizable white wines at any price.

The nose is lifted and expressive: passion fruit, melon, stone fruit, lime, bell pepper, and crushed herbs — classic Marlborough aromatics in full force. On the palate, it is fresh and juicy with ripe tropical flavors, vibrant acidity, and plenty of weight and length. Laid-back and delicious, with a clean, refreshing finish. Serve well chilled.

James Suckling 90 — "Juicy and fruit-driven with notes of limes, bell peppers and herbs on the nose. Medium body with fresh acidity. Laid-back and delicious. Sustainable." * (Vintage 2025). 

• Producer: Kim Crawford Wines, Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Sustainable
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Passion fruit, melon, stone fruit, lime, bell pepper, crushed herbs, vibrant acidity, long finish
• Style: Light-to-medium bodied, crisp, aromatic
• Serve: Well chilled
• Drink: Now
• Best Paired With: Fresh oysters, ceviche, grilled asparagus, summer salads, lobster with lemon butter, shrimp, goat cheese

The benchmark Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc — Kim Crawford 2025 is tropical, crisp, and one of the world's most reliably delicious whites.

Mumm Napa Brut Prestige — California NV

Mumm Napa is widely considered one of California’s finest producers of méthode champenoise sparkling wine, blending traditional French Champagne techniques with the vibrant, sun-ripened fruit of Napa Valley. The Brut Prestige is the house’s signature expression — a complex assemblage of primarily Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that delivers elegance, freshness, and exceptional value in every glass. Earning 90 points from both Wine Spectator and Decanter, this is the best-value domestic sparkler that consistently punches above its price point.

The nose opens with gorgeous layered white blossom aromas, followed by creamy vanilla, citrus, stone fruit, and melon. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and delicate yet plush — cherry, lemon verbena, green apple, orange blossom, and yeast roll flavors linger on a supple, refreshing finish with excellent mousse and crisp, elegant acidity. Equally at home as an apéritif or at the table.

Wine Spectator 90 — “Delicate in style yet plush, with pretty cherry, lemon verbena and yeast roll flavors that linger on the supple, refreshing finish.”

Decanter 90 — “A snappy sparkling with a seriously fresh nose of green apple, orange blossom, citrus and gingerbread. Medium-bodied, balanced, crisp and complex, with a lengthy finish.”

• Producer: Mumm Napa, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: California
• Blend: Pinot Noir & Chardonnay
• Method: Méthode Champenoise
• Style: Brut Sparkling
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White blossom, vanilla, citrus, stone fruit, cherry, lemon verbena, green apple, orange blossom, excellent mousse
• Best Paired With: Oysters, sushi, truffle popcorn, roast poultry, creamy pasta, spicy Thai; excellent in Mimosas or French 75

French technique, California sunshine, 90 points from two continents — Mumm Napa’s Brut Prestige is the sparkling wine that makes every occasion feel special.

About the Wine

Raeburn Skylight Chardonnay is a lower-alcohol expression of Sonoma County Chardonnay, crafted for modern wine lovers who want full flavor at a lighter level. All the character of Sonoma Chardonnay — without sacrificing flavor or finesse.

Tasting Notes

Fresh apple, pear, and citrus blossom on the nose, followed by subtle stone fruit and a gentle touch of oak. Clean and refreshing on the palate with lively acidity and a smooth, elegant finish.

Pairings & Serving

• Grilled fish or shrimp with lemon — the bright acidity and citrus notes are a natural match.
• Light salads or roasted chicken — the wine’s clean profile complements without overpowering.
• Soft cheeses or light appetizers — an easy-going aperitif or patio sipper.

About Nigori Sake

Nigori — meaning "cloudy" in Japanese — is an unfiltered style of sake with a milky-white appearance and characteristically full, smooth palate. Sho Chiku Bai Nigori Silky Mild is crafted by Takara Sake USA in Berkeley, California using traditional Japanese methods, making it one of the most approachable and food-friendly sakes available.

Tasting Notes

• Fruity aromas of ripe banana, vanilla, melon and strawberry
• Creamy sweet rice custard on the palate
• Full, smooth and milky with a gently sweet finish
• Slightly sweeter than Sho Chiku Bai Nigori Crème de Sake

Serving & Food Pairings

• Serve chilled or over ice as a dessert alternative
• Pairs beautifully with spicy dishes — the sweetness tempers heat
• Excellent with sushi, Thai cuisine, or fresh fruit desserts
• Kosher certified — suitable for a wide range of occasions

Product Details

• Producer: Takara Sake USA
• Style: Nigori (Unfiltered Sake)
• Origin: Berkeley, California, USA
• Format: 750ml
• Kosher: Yes

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | Seamless and supple with vanilla, dark cherry, and a twist of earthy forest. Sourced from several vineyards in San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Long-lasting, fresh, and approachable with full-bodied weight and breadth supported by supple tannins and spiced oak.

Winemaker Notes

Beautifully lush and supple, this Pinot Noir draws you in with inviting aromas of raspberry, dark cherry, dried sage, and sweet tobacco leaf. Soft, supple tannins frame alluring layers of wild strawberry and Bing cherry, with hints of cracked black pepper and spice on a long, satisfying finish.

About Calera

Calera is one of California’s most storied Pinot Noir producers, founded by Josh Jensen in the 1970s after studying under Burgundy legends. Jensen was among the first to champion limestone soils in California for Pinot Noir — the estate’s name means "lime kiln" in Spanish. This Central Coast bottling blends fruit from across the region to deliver Calera’s signature elegance at an accessible price point.

Tasting & Pairings

Dark cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, dried sage, sweet tobacco, black pepper, and spiced oak. Full-bodied yet supple with soft tannins and a long finish.

• Roasted duck or quail — the dark fruit and sage notes are a natural match for game birds.
• Grilled salmon with herbs — California Pinot and Pacific salmon, always a winner.
• Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta — the earthy forest character complements umami-rich dishes.

Winemaker Description

The deep ruby color indicates a luxe complexity, while aromas of black cherry, cassis, and rich earth are abundant in this classic Cabernet Sauvignon. On entry, currants and black plums generously lead to a plush mouthfeel, with ample tannins carrying the fruit to a long, lingering finish. Aged 12 months in 1-year-old American oak barrels, developing notes of baking spices, nutmeg, and hints of caramel.

Expert Review —  Current Vintage 2023, Prior Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast - 90 Points - (Tonya Pitts) (Vintage 2023) Pronounced nose, with a focused fruit core, notes of Black plum, black licorice, molasses, vanilla bean, and violets. Fresh youthful blackberries on the palate, dried herbs, bittersweet chocolate, espresso, and grippy tannins to finish. Aerate and enjoy mid-week.  —

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Vintage 2022)
"For $11, this California Cab packs bags of flavor. Find notes of black cherry, plum and currant, cinnamon, nutmeg, fennel, crushed violets and toasted wood alongside mouthcoating tannins and modest acidity."

Food Pairings

Pairs well with rib-eye steak with blue cheese butter, roasted eggplant with provolone, and dark chocolate mousse with fresh berries.

Product Details

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards
• Region: California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 12 months in American oak
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, plush, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

James Suckling 97 Points | Rich, powerful and gorgeous, drenched in fruity, savory, mushroomy flavors on a full body and super-smooth tannins. Deep black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar and pine character that expands on the palate and lingers on the finish. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | Deeper and more layered, with notes of pine, sage, ripe cherries, fresh leather, and pressed floral perfume. Refined and plush texture with ripe tannins and elegant notes of dark earth. Drink 2025–2040.

Wine Spectator 93 Points | Precise and vibrant, with sleek cherry and raspberry highlighted by stony mineral and black tea accents. Gathers richness toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2034.

About the Wine

Cuvée Laurène is the flagship Pinot Noir of Domaine Drouhin Oregon — the Willamette Valley estate founded by Burgundy’s legendary Maison Joseph Drouhin. Named after Véronique Drouhin’s daughter, this 100% estate wine is sourced from the Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills, two of the valley’s most exciting sub-appellations.

The vines are planted at high Burgundian density, forcing competition for nutrients and producing small, intensely concentrated berries. The estate’s famous Jory soil (red volcanic clay) gives the wine its signature red-fruit profile and silky, elegant texture.

Tasting & Pairings

Black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar, pine, sage, mushroom, leather, and dark earth. Full-bodied yet super-smooth with refined tannins and extraordinary length. Decant or cellar through 2040.

• Roasted duck breast with cherry reduction — the wine’s dark fruit and savory depth are a perfect match.
• Wild mushroom risotto or truffle dishes — the mushroomy, earthy character is built for umami.
• Rack of lamb with herbs de Provence — the cedar and pine notes complement herbed meats beautifully.

Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc — Marlborough, New Zealand 2025

Oyster Bay is the wine that put Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on the world map — the original expression that won Best Sauvignon Blanc in the World and introduced a generation of wine lovers to the electric, aromatic style that only New Zealand's most famous wine region can produce. Sourced from Marlborough's sun-drenched Wairau and Awatere Valleys, where warm days and cool nights create an extended growing season, the grapes develop intense varietal character while maintaining the crisp, natural acidity that is Oyster Bay's signature. Uniquely Marlborough. Undeniably Oyster Bay.

The nose is stunningly aromatic: tropical fruits — passionfruit, guava, and white peach — leap from the glass alongside bright citrus notes of grapefruit and lime zest. On the palate, it is brilliantly clear and refreshingly zesty, with extraordinary aromatic intensity, a lively, mouthwatering acidity, and a clean, lingering finish. Elegant, crisp, and always refreshing — this is Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc at its most iconic.

"The wine that started it all — Best Sauvignon Blanc in the World. Stunningly aromatic, brilliantly clear, and refreshingly zesty." — Oyster Bay Winemaker

• Producer: Oyster Bay Wines, Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Passionfruit, guava, white peach, grapefruit, lime zest, zesty finish
• Style: Light-bodied, vibrant acidity, intensely aromatic
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Fresh seafood, sushi, ceviche, goat cheese salad, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, light appetizers

The wine that started it all — Oyster Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is the benchmark New Zealand white, and the 2025 vintage is as brilliant as ever.

Alamos Malbec Mendoza 2024 — Mendoza, Argentina

Alamos is the approachable, everyday label from Catena Zapata — Argentina’s most celebrated wine family and the producer widely credited with putting Mendoza Malbec on the world map. While Catena’s flagship wines command serious prices, Alamos was created to deliver the same Andean terroir and winemaking philosophy at an accessible price point. Sourced from high-altitude Mendoza vineyards where the combination of intense sunlight, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils produces Malbec of exceptional depth and character.

The 2024 shows a deep ruby color with violet hues. The nose offers layers of dark cherry, blackberry, violet, and vanilla spice. On the palate, the wine is velvety and expansive, with balanced tannins and a long, smooth, lingering finish — complex and approachable in equal measure.

Catena Zapata’s everyday Malbec — Andean terroir, honest price, zero compromise.

• Producer: Alamos (Catena Zapata), Mendoza, Argentina
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Mendoza, Argentina
• Varietal: Malbec
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, violet, vanilla spice, velvety tannins, long smooth finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, skirt steak, Argentine asado, lamb chops, braised short ribs, hard cheeses, empanadas

Mendoza Malbec from the house that defined it — Alamos is the benchmark for everyday Argentine red.

Hess Select Chardonnay Monterey County 2024 — Monterey County, California

Hess Collection is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estates spanning Napa Valley and beyond. Hess Select is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to quality as their flagship wines but designed for the table. This Monterey County Chardonnay draws from one of California’s premier cool-climate appellations, where Pacific breezes off Monterey Bay preserve natural acidity and allow grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, producing Chardonnay of genuine character at an honest price.

A thoughtful blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak fermentation keeps the wine fresh and bright while adding a touch of richness. The nose opens with aromas of grilled pineapple, star fruit, and vanilla, leading to a medium-bodied palate of sliced peach and golden apple, with a touch of crème brûlée on the finish — clean, balanced, and crowd-pleasing.

70% stainless, 30% French oak — Monterey freshness with just enough richness to satisfy.

• Producer: Hess Collection (Hess Select), Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Monterey County
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Fermentation: 70% stainless steel, 30% French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Grilled pineapple, star fruit, vanilla, sliced peach, golden apple, crème brûlée finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster mac and cheese, creamy pasta, Brie, aged cheddar, goat cheese

Consistent, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely well-made — Hess Select Chardonnay is the benchmark for everyday California white.

Winemaker Description

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label is the signature champagne of the House. Dominated by Pinot Noir, it offers the perfect balance of structure and finesse. Golden-yellow in color, with a foaming necklace of tiny bubbles. It is pleasing to the nose; initially reminiscent of yellow and white fruits, then of vanilla and later brioche. Note the fine balance between the fruity aromas coming from the grape varieties and the toasty notes, the result of the three years of bottle aging. The first sip delivers all the freshness and strength so typical of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label with a symphony of fruit following (pear, lemon). It is a true member of the Brut family, well-structured, admirably vinous.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 91 | This has aromas of grapefruit, pomegranates, and biscuits. It's honeyed and sleek with a medium body and supple bubbles. Soft and creamy finish. Majority Pinot Noir, with Chardonnay and Meunier. Around 40% reserve wines.

Decanter 91 | The nose offers yeasty bready aromas topped with fresh citrus, hints of stone fruit and strawberry tart. A palate of fresh croissants, red berries, green apple and lively lemon citrus, with lovely creaminess to the bright finish. A blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Meunier. Up to 45% reserve wines. Drinking 2024 to 2030.

Wine Spectator 90 | This harmonious Champagne boasts a bright streak of tangerine peel–infused acidity, with flavors of ripe green apple, pastry cream and biscuit, plus accents of crystallized honey and candied ginger, all set on the lacy mousse. Drink now.

Jeb Dunnuck 89 | A golden straw hue, ripe with aromas of yeasty bread dough, peaches, and fresh flowers. Medium-bodied on the palate, ripe and juicy with rounded red berried fruit, a supple texture, a pillowy mousse, and a warming finish. Fresh and inviting. Drinking 2023 to 2026.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: NV (Non-Vintage)
Region: Champagne, France
Appellation: Champagne AOC
Grape Varieties: Pinot Noir (50%), Chardonnay (30%), Pinot Meunier (20%)
Style: Brut Champagne
Aging: 3 years on the lees

Clos des Lunes Lune d’Argent — Bordeaux Blanc 2023

Clos des Lunes is one of Bordeaux’s most compelling white wine stories — an estate in the heart of the Sauternes appellation that has dedicated itself entirely to producing world-class dry white wine from legendary sweet wine terroir. Lune d’Argent (“Silver Moon”) is the estate’s flagship cuvée, blending the density and richness of Sémillon with the refinement and precision of Sauvignon Blanc, aged with a touch of French oak to add complexity without obscuring the magic of the terroir.

The 2023 vintage was harvested in multiple passes from August 28 through September 21, allowing optimal ripeness across the blend. The result is a vibrant, medium-bodied white with vivid acidity, a chalky mineral finish, and outstanding depth — floral, orchard fruit, honeyed grapefruit, golden apple, and a lovely umami complexity from the Sémillon. Four critics, four outstanding scores.

James Suckling 93 • Vinous 92 • Jeb Dunnuck 92 • Decanter 91 — “A top value pick!”

• Producer: Clos des Lunes, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Bordeaux Blanc
• Blend: 70% Sémillon, 30% Sauvignon Blanc
• Aging: Touch of French oak
• Harvest: Multiple passes, Aug 28 – Sep 21
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Orchard fruit, honeyed grapefruit, golden apple, citrus, chalky minerality, umami complexity
• Best Paired With: Grilled lobster, pan-seared scallops, roast chicken, soft-ripened cheeses, foie gras

Sauternes terroir, dry white ambition, four 91+ scores — Lune d’Argent is one of the great white wine values in Bordeaux.

Winemaker Description

Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon displays great complexity and structure from Washington State's renowned Columbia Valley. Bold and expressive, with slight pepper, a round body, dried cherry, silky vanilla, and a concentrated, long velvet finish.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in color with aromas of dark cherry, blackcurrant, and a hint of cedar. The palate is full-bodied and well-structured with flavors of dried cherry, plum, vanilla, and subtle pepper spice. Silky tannins lead to a long, velvety finish.

Food Pairings

Pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted beef, veal, duck, blue cheese, and dark chocolate. An excellent everyday Cabernet Sauvignon from one of Washington's most celebrated producers.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2020
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA
Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA
Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Producer: Columbia Crest
Style: Red Wine, Dry, Full-Bodied

Au Bon Climat | Santa Barbara County, California | Pinot Noir | 2024

Au Bon Climat has been producing Burgundian-styled Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara County since 1982 — well before Sideways put the region on the map. The 2024 is a handcrafted blend from premier vineyards across the county: Bien Nacido, North Canyon, and Rancho Real in the Santa Maria Valley, with a small percentage from Kick On and Los Alamos. Hand harvested, fermented in small lots with daily manual punch downs, and aged 8–12 months in François Frères French oak barrels. Forty years of consistent winemaking, and it shows.

Vineyards: Bien Nacido, North Canyon, Rancho Real, Kick On, Los Alamos
Oak: 8–12 months, François Frères French oak
Alcohol: 13.5% | Acidity: 5.4 g/L
Drink: Now–2031

Tasting Notes

• Red currant, blueberry, and blood orange on the nose
• Bay leaf, white pepper, and wet stone in the background
• Well-balanced palate | Fine tannin and acid | Superb structure | Earthy depth

Pairings: Lamb, duck, lighter meats in youth; salmon and mild red sauce pasta with age. Remarkably versatile — ABC's own words: "the possible food pairings are almost endless."

Ravines Dry Riesling — Finger Lakes, New York 2022

Ravines Wine Cellars is one of the Finger Lakes' most celebrated producers, and their Dry Riesling is the wine that put them on the national map. The 2022 is a blend of fruit from two estate sites — 71% from Limestone Springs Vineyard and 29% from Sixteen Falls Vineyard on the eastern side of Seneca Lake — a vintage shaped by a polar vortex winter that dramatically reduced yields and concentrated the fruit. The result earned a remarkable five 91+ point scores across the major critics and landed at #36 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2025.

The wine pours a vibrant golden hue. The nose is classically Finger Lakes: lemon sorbet, Asian pear, white peach, soft blossom, and a delicate current of flint and minerality. On the palate, it's dry and precise — surprisingly plump and rounded yet with a long, vibrant, linear finish. Finished at just 3 grams per liter of residual sugar, this is Riesling that earns its "dry" designation completely.

"Somehow curvy but linear at the same time — and a total bargain for the quality. Editor's Choice." — Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points

• Producer: Ravines Wine Cellars, Finger Lakes, New York
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Finger Lakes AVA
• Vineyards: Limestone Springs (71%) & Sixteen Falls (29%), Seneca Lake
• Varietal: Riesling
• Style: Dry (3 g/L RS)
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: #36 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2025 | JS 92 | WE 92 | Vinous 91 | WA 91 | WS 91
• Tasting Notes: Lemon sorbet, Asian pear, white peach, flint, minerality, vibrant finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled trout, Thai cuisine, aged goat cheese, roast pork

Five 91+ point scores and a Wine Spectator Top 100 ranking — Ravines Dry Riesling is the definitive argument for Finger Lakes as one of America's great white wine regions.

CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Sonoma Coast Chardonnay — Sonoma County 2024

CrossBarn is Paul Hobbs’s second label — and one of California’s most compelling values in cool-climate Chardonnay. Drawing on 81% estate fruit from Sonoma Coast vineyards, CrossBarn channels the same winemaking philosophy that has made Paul Hobbs one of Napa and Sonoma’s most celebrated names: minimal intervention, site transparency, and a relentless focus on freshness. The Sonoma Coast appellation is defined by its proximity to the Pacific — cold ocean winds and morning fog that slow ripening and preserve the natural acidity that makes this style so compelling. Partial malolactic conversion in stainless steel adds a subtle creamy texture without sacrificing the wine’s essential brightness and drive. The 2024 vintage is a textbook expression of the appellation.

The color is a luminous pale gold. The nose is fresh, pure, and immediately inviting: green apple, baked apple, ripe pear, lemon peel, and a whisper of bread dough and warm spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and easygoing — generous and juicy, with vibrant acidity, a subtle creamy mid-palate from partial malo, and a long, mineral-driven finish. Crisp, refreshing, and built for the table.

James Suckling 93 • Wine Advocate 90 — “Fresh, fruity, juicy, crisp — generous in green apples, baked apples and minerals. Subtle cream and butter from partial malolactic conversion.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Estate Fruit: 81%
• Vinification: Partial malolactic conversion, stainless steel maturation
• Style: Bright, fresh, cool-climate Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, baked apple, pear, lemon peel, bread dough, warm spice, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Crab Louie, grilled shrimp, oysters, roast chicken, mushroom risotto, creamy pasta

Paul Hobbs’s vision for Sonoma Coast Chardonnay — CrossBarn delivers serious winemaking at an honest price.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

Jeb Dunnuck 98+ Points | "Incredibly elegant yet concentrated 2021 that does everything right." Purple-hued, with ample cassis, wild sage, graphite, and darker chocolate aromatics. Picks up a Graves-like gravelly earth character with air. Full-bodied with ripe, polished tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Needs 4–5 years of bottle age but will drink well for 30 years.

James Suckling 98 Points | Intense aromas of iodine, blackcurrants, cedar, sandalwood and mint. Medium to full body with silky tannins that spread across the palate and expand in a balanced, harmonized way. Hints of chocolate and tar. Better in a few years — try 2027 and beyond.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | Packed with dark, winey flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry paste underscored with alder, sweet tobacco, warm paving stone and black licorice. Violet accent fills the background. Polished finish makes it accessible now, with plenty of life ahead. Drink now through 2042. — Wine Spectator’s #2 Wine of the Year 2024.

Winemaker Notes

A truly remarkable vintage of BV’s iconic flagship. The bouquet is intense with wild sage, blackcurrant, cedar, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied with layers of ripe blackberry, redcurrant, and red rose petal alongside graphite, licorice root, gravelly stone, and dark chocolate. French oak aging adds sandalwood, clove, and Ceylon cinnamon. The signature "Rutherford Dust" tannins are silky, polished, and fine-grained, finishing long with a cocoa powder texture.

Slightly reserved upon release but incredibly drinkable — significant presence, depth, and concentration foreshadowing cellar-worthy potential across the next few decades.

Tasting & Pairings

Cassis, wild sage, graphite, dark chocolate, blackberry, cedar, sandalwood, and Rutherford Dust. Full-bodied with polished, fine-grained tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2042+.

• Prime rib or dry-aged ribeye — the wine’s concentration and tannin structure demand equally serious beef.
• Braised lamb shank with herbs — the sage and cedar notes mirror herbed, slow-cooked meats.
• Dark chocolate truffles — the cocoa powder finish and chocolate aromatics are a decadent match.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 94 Points | Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, dried strawberries, dried orange peel, spices and crushed stones. Medium to full body with compact, firm, finely grained tannins. Smooth and textured with vivid fruit underneath and a lingering finish. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Rich ruby color. A selection from the best vineyards, aged for two years. Toasted cedar, cherry lozenge, menthol, and spiced orange peel. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins folding into a mineral texture, mouthwatering stony earth, and a long, clean finish.

Robert Parker | Wine Advocate 93 Points | Ripe fruit with measured intensity that never feels heavy or overdone — achieving this level of balance is not easy in a hot growing season. Characterized by an especially linear and direct personality that pushes over the palate with good momentum.

Wine Spectator 90 Points | Juicy yet firmly structured with bright cherry and blackberry fruit. Dense tannins inform the finish with accents of earth and mineral. Balanced in a youthful, exuberant way. Best 2025–2039.

Winemaker Notes

Ruby red with a trace of garnet. Elegant nose displaying hints of spice and fruit. Well-structured with smooth tannins and a long finish. Certified organic Sangiovese from one of Chianti Classico’s most historic and beautiful estates.

Tasting & Pairings

Ripe cherry, dried strawberry, orange peel, crushed stones, cedar, menthol, and spice. Medium to full body with firm, finely grained tannins and a mineral finish. Decant or cellar through 2039.

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina or grilled lamb — the classic Tuscan pairing for a Riserva of this caliber.
• Wild boar ragù or pappardelle with meat sauce — the tannin structure and earthy notes complement rich, slow-cooked sauces.
• Aged Pecorino Toscano — a regional cheese that mirrors the wine’s earthy, mineral character.

Louis Roederer · Collection 246 · Brut NV · Champagne · France

Louis Roederer is among the last great family-owned Champagne houses, and Collection 246 is its non-vintage flagship — a wine of uncommon ambition and transparency. Based on the 2021 base vintage, Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon made a bold call: bumping Chardonnay to 54% (vs. the typical 44%) to navigate a challenging year, blending in 35% Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and 11% Meunier. The blend draws on 55% base 2021 wines, 30% perpetual reserve stretching back to 2012, and 10% young-vine juice from Cristal plots aged in cask — a Cristal pedigree at a fraction of the price. Triple 93 points from Wine Spectator, Vinous, and James Suckling.

The Collection 246 opens with white cherry, Honeycrisp apple, tangerine peel, and biscuit — precise and inviting. On the palate, brisk saline notes cut through a core of orchard fruit, mint, white pepper, and slate. The mousse is silky and soft, the finish creamy and chalky with delicate spice and floral accents. Harmonious, impeccably balanced, and built to drink beautifully now through 2030.

Expert Reviews

“A harmonious Champagne with impeccable balance, depth and focus. White cherry, Honeycrisp apple, tangerine peel and biscuit, retaining vibrancy and grace. Chalky underpinning on the creamy finish with delicate spice and floral accents. Drink now through 2030.”
— Wine Spectator · 93 Points

“Positively stellar. Brisk saline notes cut through a core of orchard fruit, mint, white pepper and slate. No hard angles or awkward contours — impeccably done and absolutely delicious.”
— Vinous · 93 Points

“Pretty and elegant aromas of pears, apple blossoms, grapefruit and chalk. Silky, fresh and beautifully balanced with very soft bubbles.”
— James Suckling · 93 Points

• Producer: Louis Roederer, Reims, Champagne, France
• Cuvée: Collection 246 (base vintage 2021)
• Blend: 54% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 11% Meunier
• Reserve: 30% perpetual reserve (back to 2012) + 10% Cristal-plot cask-aged juice
• Vinification: 24% fermented in oak; ~30% malolactic fermentation
• Dosage: 7 g/L Brut
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White cherry, Honeycrisp apple, tangerine peel, biscuit, orchard fruit, mint, white pepper, slate, chalky finish
• Pairings: Oysters, sushi, lobster, creamy risotto, Brie, Chaource
• Drink: Now through 2030

WS:93 · V:93 · JS:93 · Champagne — Cristal reserve wines, Chardonnay-forward precision, and triple 93-point acclaim from one of the great family houses.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Spectator 96 Points | #13 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2025. Energetic tumble of blackberry, boysenberry and blackcurrant paste injected with bramble and apple wood, supported by a licorice snap accent. Strapping finish laced with violet and iris notes, with a cast iron edge lending bass. Best from 2027 through 2045.   

James Suckling 96 Points | Extremely attractive aromas of blackcurrants and dried flowers with fresh herbs like basil and rosemary. Medium to full body with firm and velvety tannins, tension and focus. Long and chewy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | "One of the all-time greats from this château." Smoky currants, tobacco leaf, leather, and chocolaty notes. Sensationally textured, concentrated, medium to full-bodied. Plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe building tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Raised in 60% new oak. Three decades of longevity.

About the Wine

Château Talbot is a 4th Growth (Quatrième Cru Classé) estate in Saint-Julien, one of the Haut-Médoc’s most prestigious appellations. Named after the English commander John Talbot, the estate has been producing benchmark Left Bank Bordeaux for centuries. The 2022 vintage is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in 60% new French oak.

With a Wine Spectator Top 100 placement and Dunnuck calling it "one of the all-time greats," the 2022 is a landmark vintage for Talbot.

Tasting & Pairings

Blackcurrant, blackberry, boysenberry, tobacco, leather, chocolate, dried flowers, basil, rosemary, violet, and iris. Medium to full body with firm, velvety tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2045+.

• Rack of lamb with herbs de Provence — the herbal aromatics and firm tannins are a classic Bordeaux match.
• Dry-aged côte de boeuf — the wine’s concentration and structure demand serious beef.
• Aged Comté or Roquefort — the tobacco and chocolate notes complement rich, complex cheeses.

Vietti | Cascinetta | Moscato d'Asti DOCG | Piedmont, Italy | 2025

Vietti is one of Piedmont's most celebrated and historic estates, based in Castiglione Falletto in the heart of the Langhe and renowned above all for their benchmark Barolo and Barbaresco. Yet the Cascinetta Moscato d'Asti is a wine that stands entirely on its own merits — sourced from estate vineyards in Santo Stefano Belbo in the Canelli zone, the most prized area for Moscato Bianco in all of Piedmont, and consistently one of the finest expressions of the DOCG. Delicate, aromatic and irresistibly charming, it is the perfect introduction to the joys of great Italian Moscato.

Moscato d'Asti is a lightly sparkling (frizzante), low-alcohol style — typically around 5.5% ABV — that captures the pure, fragrant character of Moscato Bianco with a gentle effervescence and a natural sweetness that never feels heavy or cloying. The Cascinetta is a benchmark of the style: precise, fresh and beautifully balanced, with the kind of aromatic intensity and delicacy that only the finest Canelli-zone fruit can deliver.

The 2025 pours bright straw-yellow with shimmering hints of gold and a fine, persistent perlage. The nose is intensely aromatic — ripe peach, apricot, rose petals, acacia flowers and a whisper of ginger. The palate is sweet and delicate, with modest acidity, excellent balance and a lingering finish of fresh apricot and white flowers. Serve well chilled at 43–46°F and enjoy young while its freshness and aromatics are at their peak.

A natural partner for fresh fruit tarts, peach desserts, panna cotta, almond biscotti, panettone and light pastries. Also stunning as an aperitif or alongside spicy Asian cuisine.

• Producer: Vietti
• Cuvée: Cascinetta
• Appellation: Moscato d'Asti DOCG
• Region: Piedmont, Italy
• Village: Santo Stefano Belbo, Canelli zone
• Grape Variety: Moscato Bianco (100%)
• Vintage: 2025
• Style: Sweet, lightly sparkling (frizzante)
• Alcohol: ~5.5% ABV
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023 750ml

Josh Cellars was founded by Joseph Carr as a heartfelt tribute to his father, Josh — a hardworking man who inspired a lifetime of dedication and craft. Today, Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is the flagship wine of the brand and one of California’s most beloved everyday reds. A quintessential Modern California Cabernet — approachable, fruit-forward, and smooth — the 2023 vintage showcases the careful selection of grapes from California’s finest growing regions, crafted to deliver bold character with balanced acidity and silky tannins that make every occasion feel special.

Deep ruby in color, the 2023 opens with aromas of blackberry, toasted hazelnut, and cinnamon, complemented by hints of vanilla and toasted oak. The palate is rich and smooth — dark fruit, plum, and blackberry with a refined vanilla and oak character — leading to a balanced, satisfying finish that is as versatile at the dinner table as it is enjoyable on its own.

“A quintessential Modern California Cabernet — fruit-forward, smooth, and crafted as a tribute to the hardworking spirit of Josh Carr.”

• Producer: Josh Cellars, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, plum, toasted hazelnut, cinnamon, vanilla, toasted oak, smooth tannins
• Best Paired With: Well-seasoned beef, grilled pork chops, lamb, Bolognese, aged Cheddar or Gouda, dark chocolate desserts

California’s most approachable Cabernet Sauvignon — Josh Cellars 2023 is a wine built for sharing, celebrating, and everyday enjoyment.

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.

Elegant, food-friendly, and consistently delightful, the Chateau Graville-Lacoste Graves Blanc 2024 is a benchmark expression of white Bordeaux — a classic blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle from one of the appellation's most reliable estates.

Crisp, aromatic, and refreshingly versatile, this is the kind of bottle that earns a permanent place on your table. 

Located in the Graves appellation of Bordeaux, Chateau Graville-Lacoste is a family-owned estate with a long tradition of producing expressive, terroir-driven white Bordeaux. Imported by the legendary Kermit Lynch, the estate's Graves Blanc is celebrated for its harmony, freshness, and remarkable food versatility — a wine that consistently overdelivers at its price point.

Expert Review

Madison H. Brown, Kermit Lynch Importing: “Brimming with honeysuckle, lychee, and citrus, this Bordeaux blend is reliably harmonious with Eastern cuisine — sushi, dumplings, Szechuan dishes, light curries, and vermicelli bowls all jive. I sampled a glass or two with saag paneer, butter chicken, and naan and found the Graves’ acidity a refreshing foil to the meal’s garam-masala-scented richness.”

Tasting Profile

Pale gold with bright highlights. Fresh and aromatic on the nose — honeysuckle, lychee, citrus zest, cut grass, and a hint of tropical fruit. Crisp and refreshing on the palate with lively acidity, a clean mineral backbone, and a dry, precise finish. Classic white Graves: harmonious, food-friendly, and endlessly drinkable.

Food Pairings

Serve well-chilled (44–48°F). Exceptionally versatile — pairs beautifully with sushi, dumplings, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, light curries, grilled fish, goat cheese, and fresh salads. One of the most food-friendly whites in Bordeaux.

• Producer: Chateau Graville-Lacoste
• Appellation: Graves AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Muscadelle
• Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

Producer Description

St. Francis Winery has been one of Sonoma County's most reliable Cabernet producers for decades, drawing on estate and select vineyards across the appellation. The 2022 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is a textbook expression of the house style — rich, structured, and approachable without sacrificing depth.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in the glass. Aromas of cassis, dark cherry, and black olive give way to a palate of dark plum and cherry preserves, with a lingering note of roasted coffee bean on the finish. Smooth tannins and vibrant acidity keep the wine lively and food-friendly.

Food Pairings

A natural partner for grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, and aged hard cheeses. Also excellent alongside hearty pasta with meat sauce.

Château d'Esclans | Whispering Angel Rosé | Côtes de Provence 2025

There is a reason Whispering Angel became the world's most recognized Provence rosé: it is simply, consistently, beautifully made. Sacha Lichine and his team at Château d'Esclans set the benchmark for pale Provençal rosé, and the 2025 continues that tradition with the effortless elegance the wine is known for.

Pale salmon in the glass, it opens with fresh peach, strawberry, and delicate red berry fruit, with a floral lift that is quintessentially Provence. The palate is full and lush yet bone dry — pink grapefruit and hints of peach, lively acidity, and a smooth, round finish with real concentration. Grenache provides the body, Cinsault the freshness, and Rolle (Vermentino) the aromatic lift that ties it all together.

Drink it from mid-day to midnight. It goes with everything and offends no one.

James Suckling 91 Points | An elegant and scented nose of pink cherry pits, peach skin and cherry blossoms. Medium-bodied with fresh, round acidity and a textured finish. Elegant and pure finish. (Vintage 2025). 

Pair with: Grilled seafood · Summer salads · Charcuterie · Light pasta · Goat cheese

• Appellation: Côtes de Provence AOP
• Grapes: Grenache, Cinsault, Rolle (Vermentino)
• Vintage: 2025
• Style: Dry Rosé
• Size: 750ml

Winemaker Description

Firmin Dezat, now in its 18th generation of family winemaking, farms 8 hectares in the prestigious Pouilly-Fumé appellation of the Loire Valley. Naturally farmed with HVE 3 certification (Haute Valeur Environnementale), this Loire Sauvignon Blanc is dominated by aromas and flavors of stone fruit wrapped in vibrant minerality. A beautifully expressive and exceptional value from one of the Loire's most enduring family estates.

Tasting Notes

Bright and aromatic with stone fruit, citrus zest, and the signature flinty, smoky minerality of Pouilly-Fumé. Crisp acidity, a lively mid-palate, and a clean, lingering finish with excellent tension and freshness.

Food Pairings

Classic with goat cheese, oysters, grilled fish, seafood pasta, and light salads. An ideal aperitif or food-friendly white for any occasion.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2024
Region: Pouilly-Fumé, Loire Valley, France
Appellation: Pouilly-Fumé AOC
Grape Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Farming: Naturally Farmed, HVE 3 Certified
Style: White Wine, Dry

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir from Eleven Family-Owned Vineyards

Patz & Hall draws from eleven small, independent family-owned vineyard sites across the Sonoma Coast, unified into a wine of saline freshness, lively red fruit, and structural elegance. The 2021 vintage delivered cool, even growing conditions that preserved natural acidity and exceptional purity.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

• Decanter — 96 pts: "Delightful, extra juicy red and black fruits give graciously and generously with a mouth-filling texture and soft, silky tannins. The coolness of the Sonoma Coast takes the salty sea air and places it squarely on the grapes to give this wine a lovely saline finish. The great structural envelope will protect this wine for the future. It will last and last."
• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: "Fresh and lively, raspberry and mulberry coulis with a mouthwatering savory edge. Textbook vintage and AVA profile. Drink now through 2031."
• Wine Advocate — 90 pts: "Aromas of red and black cherries, mint, forest floor and allspice. Generous, spicy fruit with grainy tannins and juicy acidity."

Winemaker Notes

Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021 750ml

Complex aromas of Morello cherry and wild strawberry, with cinnamon, clove, anise, and coriander alongside forest floor and pink flowers. Full palate with good purity, refined tannins, and fresh acidity.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast, California
• Vineyard Sources: 11 independent family-owned sites
• Producer: Patz & Hall
• Vintage: 2021
• Drinking Window: Now–2031
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Exceptional with roasted duck, salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb loin, and soft-ripened cheeses.

Matua Sauvignon Blanc — Marlborough 2024

Matua pioneered Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc back in 1974, and fifty years on, the region's most iconic grape variety still finds one of its most honest expressions here. The 2024 vintage is everything Marlborough promises — vivid aromatics, electric acidity, and a palate that is both refreshing and precise. Ken's Wine Guide awarded it 89.5 points, calling it crisp, zesty, and mouthwatering. With classic structure and a dry, lingering finish, this is the bottle you reach for when the occasion calls for something bright, honest, and undeniably delicious.

The nose opens with white grapefruit and guava, layered with hints of white peach and limestone. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with bright, mouthwatering acidity — crisp, round, and zesty. Flavors of white grapefruit and lime are accented by tonic water, yellow bell pepper, and a touch of chalky minerality. The finish is dry and lingering, with classic Marlborough length and precision.

Ken's Wine Guide 89.5 (Vintage 2024) • Wine Enthusiast 93 (Prior Vintage 2023) — "Dried herbs and lemongrass, with passionfruit sorbet, open this lovely, balanced Sauvignon. It's textural, long and persistent, with a salted pink grapefruit finish." — Christina Pickard

• Producer: Matua, Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Marlborough
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Style: White Wine — Dry, Crisp & Aromatic
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White grapefruit, guava, white peach, limestone, lime, tonic water, yellow bell pepper, chalky minerality
• Best Paired With: Fresh oysters, grilled fish, sushi, poke bowls, goat cheese, green salads, herb-driven dishes

At an honest price — Matua's benchmark bottling is the quintessential expression of New Zealand's most celebrated white wine region.

Chateau Carbonnieux WHITE Pessac-Leognan Grand Cru Classé 2023

Explore the elegance of Chateau Carbonnieux, one of the distinguished names in the Pessac-Leognan region, known for producing exceptional white wines. The 2023 vintage showcases the estate's commitment to quality, offering a finely balanced wine that reflects the terroir beautifully. With a rich history dating back to the 13th century, Chateau Carbonnieux has established itself as a Grand Cru Classé, known for its meticulous vineyard practices and sustainable viticulture. Each bottle is a testament to the tradition and innovation that has shaped the estate over centuries.

Expert Recognition - 2023 Vintage

Wine Enthusiast - 96 Points (Cellar Selection)
"The grapefruit and honey aromas of this wine are echoed in its crisp and rounded textures. It is ripe with apple and spice flavors, the wood aging subtly in the background. Drink from 2027."

Wine Spectator - 95 Points
"This crackles with tarragon, fleur de sel, oyster shell and lemon pith notes that ripple throughout, while a steady core of yuzu and mirabelle plum moves through. Live-wire acidity keeps everything focused and mouthwatering. Lovely. Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Drink now through 2033."

James Suckling - 94 Points
"Sliced lemon, crushed stone, ginger and oyster shell aromas follow through to a medium body with crisp acidity and a crunchy finish. A very typical top white from Pessac. Drink now."

Wine Advocate - 90-92 Points
"A blend of 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Sémillon, the 2023 Carbonnieux Blanc exhibits elegant aromas of pear, white peach, spring flowers and herbs, followed by a medium-bodied, satiny and long texture enhanced by bright acids and a lively mid-palate. It concludes with a long, delicate, mouthwateringly mordant finish, making it a classic white wine from this estate."

Jeb Dunnuck - 90-92 Points
"The 2023 Château Carbonnieux Blanc is light gold-hued and offer terrific aromatics of ripe citrus, minty herbs, and a kiss of grapefruit. These carry to a medium-bodied white with a round, supple texture, nicely integrated acidity, and outstanding length."

Grape Blend

Composition: 65% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Sémillon
This classic Bordeaux white blend showcases the best of both varietals, combining Sauvignon Blanc's vibrant acidity and aromatic intensity with Sémillon's richness and texture.

Tasting Profile

The 2023 Chateau Carbonnieux white wine offers an exquisite blend of vibrancy and depth. Light gold-hued with terrific aromatics including grapefruit and honey, sliced lemon, crushed stone, ginger, oyster shell, tarragon, fleur de sel, lemon pith, yuzu, mirabelle plum, pear, white peach, spring flowers, herbs, ripe citrus, and minty herbs. The palate is equally expressive, featuring crisp and rounded textures, ripe with apple and spice flavors, live-wire acidity that keeps everything focused and mouthwatering, medium body with a satiny and long texture, round and supple with nicely integrated acidity. The finish is crunchy, long, delicate, and mouthwateringly mordant with outstanding length. Wood aging is subtle in the background, allowing the fruit and terroir to shine.

Grand Cru Classé Heritage

With a rich history dating back to the 13th century, Chateau Carbonnieux has established itself as a Grand Cru Classé in the prestigious Pessac-Leognan appellation. The estate is known for its meticulous vineyard practices and sustainable viticulture, producing wines that beautifully reflect the unique terroir of Bordeaux. Each bottle is a testament to centuries of tradition and innovation.

Aging Potential

Drink Window: Now through 2033 (Wine Spectator), from 2027 (Wine Enthusiast Cellar Selection)
This vintage offers both immediate enjoyment and excellent aging potential, allowing collectors to cellar it for further development.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairing Chateau Carbonnieux with the right dishes can enhance your overall dining experience. Its refreshing acidity and vibrant fruit character make it an excellent choice for:

• Grilled fish and shellfish
• Oysters and seafood platters
• Salads featuring citrus or vinaigrettes
• Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert
• Gourmet picnics
• Summer barbecues
• Light cheese platters

Perfect for Wine Enthusiasts

This vintage is ideal for those who appreciate complexity and refinement in their wine, making it a sought-after selection for wine enthusiasts and collectors wanting to taste the essence of Bordeaux. Enjoy it chilled to fully appreciate its bright flavors and elegant character. The versatility of this Grand Cru Classé is sure to impress your guests at any occasion.

Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine — Margaux, Bordeaux 2019

Confidences is the second wine of Château Prieuré-Lichine, a Quatrième Grand Cru Classé estate in Margaux with a storied history stretching back to the 17th century. Produced from the estate's younger vines, Confidences is harvested, vinified, and aged with the same meticulous care as the Grand Cru — the difference is in the vine age, not the philosophy. The 2019 vintage is widely regarded as one of Bordeaux's finest in a generation: a warm, dry year that delivered exceptional ripeness, concentration, and structure across the appellation.

The wine pours a deep ruby. The nose is fresh and open-knit — pomegranate, damson plum, cedar, and savory hints that speak directly to Margaux's signature elegance. On the palate, it's a Merlot-dominant blend that favors roundness and a silky, velvety touch, with a fine-grained finish that is both charming and structured. Modern in its fruitiness, classic in its restraint. Drink now through 2026.

"Fresh and open-knit, with pomegranate and damson plum notes carried by cedar and savory hints. Fine-grained finish." — Wine Spectator, 88 Points

• Producer: Château Prieuré-Lichine, Margaux, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Second Wine of a 4ème Grand Cru Classé
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Margaux AOC
• Blend: Merlot-dominant; Cabernet Sauvignon
• Production: 13,000 cases made
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: Wine Spectator 88
• Drink: Now through 2026
• Tasting Notes: Pomegranate, damson plum, cedar, savory notes, silky tannins, fine-grained finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses, classic Bordelaise cuisine

Grand Cru craftsmanship at second wine pricing — Margaux elegance from one of the appellation's most historic estates, in a legendary vintage.

#1 Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025  |  #8 James Suckling Top 100 Wines of the World 2025

Château Giscours, a Grand Cru Classé in 1855, is one of Margaux’s most storied estates — and the 2022 vintage may be its finest hour. With almost 60% of the blend drawn from vines over 50 years old, and a historic yield of just 27 hl/ha, this is a wine of extraordinary depth, precision, and generational ambition.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

98 pts — James Suckling: “Stunning aromas of blackcurrants, dark mushrooms and black cherries with forest-floor notes. Full body with fine, caressing tannins and dark, flavorful fruit. The tannins are very intense and structural, spreading across the palate in layers. Plenty of energy and verve. This has gravity, too. Best after 2029.”

97+ pts — Jeb Dunnuck: “Packed with cassis, black cherries, violets, and graphite-like aromatics. Concentrated and intense, with beautifully ripe tannins, a pure, graceful mouthfeel, and a long, structured finish. Serious depth with remarkable balance.”

96 pts — Wine Advocate: “Deep bouquet of sweet berries, mint, rose petals and pencil shavings. Textural and enveloping, built around lively acids and sweet powdery tannins, concluding with a long, resonant finish. Why is the 2022 so good? Almost 60% of the blend derives from vines over 50 years old — in a vintage that favored deep, well-established root systems.”

96 pts — Decanter: “Seriously impressive and beguiling — one of the most elegant Giscours ever. Gorgeous clarity and purity, gentle seduction, fresh and lifted, fragrant and juicy with textured tannins. Elegant, finessed, subtle confidence with cool minerality throughout. A compelling wine. Possible upscore in bottle.”

95 pts — Wine Spectator: “Warmed cassis and plum notes, with lilac, violet and iris accents. A flash of black tea on the finish, along with a beguiling, cashmere-like mouthfeel. A pitch-perfect example of the vintage profile.”

• Appellation: Margaux AOC, Bordeaux
• Blend: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc
• Vintage: 2022
• Ageing: 17 months, 50% new oak
• Yield: 27 hl/ha — lowest in estate history
• Drink: Best after 2029 | Will age beautifully for decades
• 750ml | Serve at 60–65°F

Ruinart Champagne Brut Blanc de Blancs NV — Reims, Champagne

Ruinart is the oldest established Champagne house, founded in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart in Reims. For nearly three centuries, the house has been synonymous with Chardonnay-driven Champagne of exceptional finesse and elegance — and the Blanc de Blancs is their purest expression of that philosophy. Sourced from the Côtes des Blancs, Montagne de Reims, and Sézanne, this 100% Chardonnay cuvée captures the full spectrum of what the grape can achieve in Champagne: vivid, precise, and endlessly refined.

The NV opens with scents of citrus zest, green apple, lemon (fresh and candied), sliced pear, white flowers, and fresh bread. On the palate it is medium to full-bodied, pillowy yet incisive, with a vibrant core of fruit, brisk acidity, and a mouth-filling mousse. Steeped apricot, candied ginger, kumquat, toast point, and salted Marcona almond layer through the mid-palate, with a long, minerally, saline finish that is effortlessly integrated and impossible to stop sipping.

James Suckling 93 — “Lovely balance of juicy fruit and acidity that dances nimbly across the palate. Delicate, silky finish.”
Wine Spectator 93 — “Fresh and racy, yet there’s an effortless quality to the integration that makes this hard to stop sipping.”
Wine Advocate 90 — “Vibrant core of fruit and brisk acids, complemented by a mouth-filling mousse.”

• Producer: Ruinart, Reims, Champagne, France (est. 1729)
• Style: Brut Blanc de Blancs NV
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Sources: Côtes des Blancs, Montagne de Reims, Sézanne
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus zest, green apple, lemon, pear, white flowers, apricot, candied ginger, toast, Marcona almond, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, lobster, Dover sole, sushi, fresh goat cheese, caviar, light canapés

The oldest Champagne house. The purest Chardonnay expression. Ruinart Blanc de Blancs is the benchmark.

Celebrate with the official Champagne of the FIFA World Cup in this limited-edition Taittinger Brut Réserve bottle. Elegant, festive, and unmistakably Taittinger, this special release brings together the prestige of one of Champagne’s great houses with a bold collector’s label created for the world’s biggest sporting celebration.

Taittinger Brut Réserve is a beautifully balanced Champagne crafted from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Fresh and refined, it offers lively notes of citrus, white peach, brioche, and delicate floral accents, with fine bubbles and a clean, elegant finish. Perfect for gifting, celebrations, Mother’s Day, graduation parties, weddings, and any moment worth raising a glass.

• Producer: Taittinger
• Appellation: Champagne, France
• Style: Brut Non-Vintage
• Blend: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
• Special Feature: FIFA World Cup Official Champagne — Limited Edition bottle
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, white peach, brioche, floral accents, fine bubbles
• Best For: Gifting, celebrations, collector’s piece, parties, weddings

Decoy by Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023

Decoy is the everyday expression of Duckhorn Wine Company — one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated names — and it delivers the Duckhorn philosophy of quality and approachability at an honest price. Sourced from premium California vineyards, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon benefits from one of the state’s most exceptional recent vintages. The season began with abundant winter rains that revitalized drought-stressed soils, followed by a cool spring that delayed ripening and extended hang time. Harvest ran from September 7th through November 9th — a long, carefully managed campaign with alternating heat waves and cooling trends that built exceptional depth, texture, and rich color in the fruit. The result is a Cabernet of remarkable quality for the price.

The color is a deep, alluring ruby. The nose is immediately inviting: black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spices that draw you in from the first pour. On the palate, silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture frame voluptuous dark berry flavors, with barrel spice adding nuance and complexity to a long, lush, and satisfying finish. This is California Cabernet done right — rich, balanced, and built for the table.

The Wine Enthusiast 93 | Dark berry and plum aromas on the nose of this bottling are cut by nutmeg, cola and bittersweet cocoa touches. The palate is quite dry with flavors of dark-chocolate flake and oregano, as dark berry fills in the fruit tones. A very classic California Cab. (Vintage 2023). 

“Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spices. Silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture — a long, lush finish.” — Duckhorn Winemaker

• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Wine Company, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Rich, supple, approachable California Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, blackberry, mocha, blueberry, baking spice, barrel spice, silky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, burgers, aged cheddar, BBQ

Duckhorn quality at an everyday price — Decoy 2023 is the California Cabernet you’ll reach for again and again.

Villa Maria · Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc · Marlborough · New Zealand · 2024

Villa Maria is one of New Zealand’s most decorated wine estates, and the Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc is the wine that put them on the world map. A blend of Marlborough’s two great valleys — Wairau and Awatere — it is the benchmark for what Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc does best: vivid tropical aromatics, bright acidity, and a freshness that makes every sip feel like the first. Consistent across every vintage, it earned 89 points from Wine Enthusiast (Best Buy), James Suckling, and Wine Advocate in 2024 — and delivers exceptional value at any price.

The 2024 bursts with intensely tropical aromas of passionfruit, lime curd, mango, and white pineapple, layered with cassis, green apple, and white pepper. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, tangy, and ultra-fresh — briny acidity, juicy peach and citrus, and a clean, herb-tinged finish. As Wine Enthusiast put it: like the first bite of a juicy, fuzz-covered peach on a mid-summer’s day.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

“Like the first bite of a juicy, fuzz-covered peach on a mid-summer’s day... a tangy, ultra fresh, slightly slippery little number that is a likable drop in the warmer months.”
— Wine Enthusiast · 89 Points · Best Buy

“Intensely tropical with notes of passion fruit, lime curd and mangoes. Medium-bodied, fruity and straightforward with fresh acidity.”
— James Suckling · 89 Points

“Cassis and green apple, passion fruit, white pineapple and white pepper with briny acidity. Neat, ordered and impressive.”
— Wine Advocate · 89 Points

• Producer: Villa Maria Estate, Marlborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Marlborough, New Zealand
• Valleys: Wairau & Awatere
• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Farming: Sustainable
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Passionfruit, lime curd, mango, cassis, green apple, white pepper, briny acidity, juicy finish
• Pairings: Grilled fish, oysters, goat cheese, asparagus, Thai cuisine, herb-forward salads

WE:89 Best Buy · JS:89 · WA:89 · Marlborough — the Sauvignon Blanc that put Villa Maria on the world map. Tropical, briny, and built for summer.